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Around 70 Teams From 26 States & Six UTs To Participate In Junior National Kho Kho In Karnataka
Junior National Kho Kho Championship: Around 35 boys' and as many girls' teams are expected to participate in the 44th Junior National Kho Kho Championship 2025-26, scheduled from Dec 31 to January 4 at Gunjur, Bengaluru. Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir, Puducherry, Chandigarh, Dadra & Nagar Haveli, and Delhi are the Union Territories participating in the Championship. Apart from States, teams representing recognised Kho Kho Associations like Kolhapur, Vidarbha, and Madhya Bharat will also battle it out for the title in the Championship, which will be on the league-cum-knockout basis. All eyes would be on Maharashtra, which won both the boys and girls' titles in the 43rd Junior National Kho Kho Championship held at Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, in 2024. The pre-quarterfinal matches in both boys and girls categories will be held in the morning, while quarterfinal matches will be held in the afternoon on January 3. On January 4, the semifinals would be conducted in the morning and the finals after that. Both boys and girls teams have been divided into 8 groups each, the Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI) informed in a release onFriday. Other than referees, as many as 25 officials, including technical officials, coaches, and officials from the association, have been deployed for the preparations and smooth conduct of the Championship. Arrangements for the boarding and lodging of players have been made within a 3-4 km vicinity of the stadium, and 10 buses have been deployed for their conveyance, said Lokeshwara, President of Karnataka State Kho Kho Association. The Championship is being held at Atal Bihari Vajpayee Stadium in Gunjur. It is a festival of Kho Kho in which young talents from all across the country compete for the title. It is also a platform for junior talents to showcase their skills. Identification of the talent and its recognition plays an important role in promoting sport and sportspersons as we religiously aim for Kho Khos inclusion in Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, and Olympics, said Sudhanshu Mittal, President, Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI). General Secretary, KKFI, Upkar Singh Virk said, All preparations are in place for the smooth conduct of the Championship. Our focus is on the development of athletes and infrastructure. It is a festival of Kho Kho in which young talents from all across the country compete for the title. It is also a platform for junior talents to showcase their skills. Identification of the talent and its recognition plays an important role in promoting sport and sportspersons as we religiously aim for Kho Khos inclusion in Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, and Olympics, said Sudhanshu Mittal, President, Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI). Also Read: Live Cricket Score India will host the first Commonwealth Kho Kho Championship from March 9-14, 2026, the 58th Senior National Kho Kho Championship (Men & Women) 2025-26 from January 11-15, 2026, in Kazipet, Telangana, and the 35th Sub-Junior National Kho Kho Championship (Boys & Girls) 2025-26 in Kurukshetra, Haryana, from January 31, 2026, to February 4, 2026. Article Source: IANS
ICC Mens T20 WC 2026 Trophy Tour Wraps Up Qatar And Oman Legs
Indian School Al Wadi Al: After enchanting fans as part of its grand launch at Adams Bridge, culturally revered in India as the Ram Setu, the ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026 Trophy Tour successfully concluded its Qatar and Oman legs, engaging fans, students and communities across key cities and iconic locations in both countries. In Qatar, the trophy arrived at the Doha Corniche via a traditional dhow, set against the city skyline, symbolising the nations maritime heritage and its growing role in global sport. During its journey across the country, the trophy visited several of Qatars most recognised landmarks including Sealine Beach, Aspire Zone, also known as Doha Sports City, Katara Cultural Village, Souq Waqif, and Lusail Boulevard. These stops allowed fans to engage with the trophy while showcasing Qatars blend of heritage and modern development. Community engagement was a key focus of the tour. The trophy was publicly displayed at a central public gathering space, with national players, embassies, and community leaders in attendance, allowing fans to engage through on-ground activations and photo opportunities. The tour also reached schools and universities, including Birla Public School, UDST University, and Qatar Foundation, engaging thousands of students and promoting inclusivity through sport. Special interactions at Qatar Foundation highlighted inclusion initiatives, including engagement with children with autism. In recognition of the workforce that plays a vital role in the countrys development, a dedicated activation was held at Asian Town, celebrating the South Asian diaspora and their love for cricket. The Qatar leg concluded with the trophy on display at sunset across the desert, marking the end of a memorable chapter of the tour in the country. Following Qatar, the trophy continued to Oman, where it visited a mix of sporting venues, cultural landmarks and public spaces. Key stops included the Muttrah Fort, Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Royal Opera House Muscat, Oman Across Ages Museum, Jabal Akhdar Viewpoint, and Qurum Beach, offering scenic backdrops for fan interactions and media engagements. The tour focused on youth and fan engagement through visits to Indian School Muscat and Indian School Al Wadi Al Kabir, giving students the opportunity to see the trophy up close, while public activations enabled fans to view the trophy firsthand. The trophy visited the Oman Cricket Academy, where the senior mens team, including captain Jatinder Singh, head coach Duleep Mendis, and deputy head coach Sulakshan Kulkarni, were present alongside the U19 mens team and senior womens team with their respective coaches, as they posed with the trophy, creating memorable team moments. Through activations at landmark locations, educational institutions and public venues, the ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026 Trophy Tour with DP World continues to bring fans closer to the tournament and build excitement ahead of the global event. The trophy visited the Oman Cricket Academy, where the senior mens team, including captain Jatinder Singh, head coach Duleep Mendis, and deputy head coach Sulakshan Kulkarni, were present alongside the U19 mens team and senior womens team with their respective coaches, as they posed with the trophy, creating memorable team moments. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026 is scheduled to take place from 7 February to 8 March 2026 across Narendra Modi Stadium (Ahmedabad), MA Chidambaram Stadium (Chennai), Arun Jaitley Stadium (New Delhi), Wankhede Stadium (Mumbai), Eden Gardens (Kolkata), R. Premadasa Stadium (Colombo), Sinhalese Sports Club Cricket Ground (Colombo) and Pallekele International Cricket Stadium (Kandy). Article Source: IANS
Ashes: Broad Slams MCG Pitch After 20 Wickets Fall On Day 1 Of MCG Test
Boxing Day Test: Former England pacer Stuart Broad was not impressed with the condition of the MCG pitch on Day 1 of the Boxing Day Test, as the former England pacer said that he amount of movement that this pitch has shown has indicated that there is something really wrong. Following the sensational bowling performance from English fast bowler Josh Tongue, who picked up superb figures of 5-45 during Australia's first innings of 152, with the hosts responding in style to skittle England for just 110 on an action-packed opening day's play in the fourth Test that saw a total of 20 wickets fall. It was the first time in 74 years that 20 wickets had fallen on Day 1 of a Test match down under. The amount of movement that this pitch has shown has indicated to me that there is something really wrong. Test match bowlers do not require this level of movement to bowl effectively in a Test match. Good Test match pitches will have good bounce but not excessive sideways movements, Broad said on Sen Cricket. Meanwhile, Tongue created history at the Boxing Day Test when he became the first England bowler this century to collect a five-wicket haul in Men's Tests at the MCG. It was the first time an England bowler had claimed a five-wicket haul in a Test at the MCG since Darren Gough and Dean Headley did so in 1998 and Tongue was deservedly chuffed with his efforts. The amount of movement that this pitch has shown has indicated to me that there is something really wrong. Test match bowlers do not require this level of movement to bowl effectively in a Test match. Good Test match pitches will have good bounce but not excessive sideways movements, Broad said on Sen Cricket. Also Read: Live Cricket Score There were 94,199 spectators at the MCG on Friday, which sets a new venue record, breaking the previous record of 93,013 for the 2015 Cricket World Cup final between Australia and New Zealand. Article Source: IANS
'That pitch has too much life for Test cricket' - MCG surface under scanner
Stuart Broad and Glenn McGrath among former players to criticise Melbourne pitch after 20-wicket day
Shorey equals record for most consecutive List A hundreds
His unbeaten 109 against Hyderabad was his fifth century in a row, equalling Jagadeesan's record
He Has Strong Leadership Qualities: RCB Andy Flower Happy To Aquire Venkatesh Iyer
RCB Andy Flower: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) head coach Andy Flower expressed his happiness at acquiring Venkatesh Iyer and praised his leadership qualities ahead of the IPL 2026. The mini-auction saw Royal Challengers Bengaluru bolster their championship squad by securing Venkatesh Iyer, Jacob Duffy and Mangesh Yadav. RCB snapped up Venkatesh Iyer for Rs 7 crore after Kolkata Knight Riders withdrew from the bidding, bringing an end to a far more restrained contest than last year, when the two franchises were locked in a fierce auction battle that saw KKR secure him for a staggering Rs 23.75 crore. Venkatesh Iyer has strong leadership qualities. That is great to have in the dressing room and on the field. We are happy to get him and I look forward to working with him. When you plan well and have a good strategy, you know your limits. I think KKR had a little extra money left in their purse after purchasing Cameron Green. They were probably betting some of it on Venkatesh Iyer because they had some money left, but in the end, we ended up acquiring Venkatesh and we are really happy with it, Flower said on JioStar. Venkatesh Iyer has strong leadership qualities. That is great to have in the dressing room and on the field. We are happy to get him and I look forward to working with him. When you plan well and have a good strategy, you know your limits. Also Read: Live Cricket Score On RCB's careful strategy to maintain stability within their squad after the auction, Kumble said, Venkatesh Iyer will not be in the playing eleven at the start. You do not want to create doubt in a winning team. That is probably why they did not go after a Ravi Bishnoi, so that Suyash Sharma does not feel threatened by a senior India spinner. They have done well to keep the core the same, back their players, and just have a few backups in case something goes wrong. Article Source: IANS
Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar: President of India Droupadi Murmu on Friday conferred on India's 14-year-old batting prodigy Vaibhav Suryavanshi for his exploits in the field of cricket. The President conferred the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar on children for their exceptional achievements in the fields of Bravery, Social Service, Environment, Sports, Art & Culture and Science & Technology at a ceremony held in the national capital. The Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar is Indias highest civilian honour for individuals aged five to 18, instituted to recognise exceptional achievements across diverse fields like art and culture, innovation, science and technology, social service, sports and instances of bravery. Speaking on the occasion, the President congratulated the recipients of the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar and said, Vaibhav Suryavanshi has made a name for himself in the highly competitive and talent-filled world of cricket and has set many records. The teenager is also slated to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi later in the day. Following the ceremony in Delhi, he will rejoin the India Under-19 squad and travel to Zimbabwe for preparations ahead of the Under-19 World Cup, which begins from January 15. The BCCI also congratulated the youngster for his achievement. Congratulations to our explosive young batter, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, on being conferred the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar by the Honourable President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmuji, it posted on X. Earlier this week, Suryavanshi smashed 190 off 84 balls against Arunachal Pradesh at the Vijay Hazare Trophy, becoming the youngest centurion in List A history. The knock also broke AB de Villiers record for the fastest 150 in List A cricket and his 15 sixes in the innings are the most by any Indian in the 50-over format. Earlier this month, Suryavanshi smashed an unbeaten century for Bihar against Maharashtra in an Elite Group B Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025 match at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. He scored an unbeaten 108 off 61 balls, his maiden ton in the T20 domestic cricket tournament and third overall in the format. His century also made him the youngest batter to score a century in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, at 14 years and 250 days. The 14-year-old cricketer also smashed the record for the highest score by an Indian in U19 Asia Cup history with his 171 off just 95 against the UAE. The explosive southpaw also slammed a ton against the Australia U19 team in Brisbane during a Youth Test match in November. His most recent jaw-dropping innings came in the Rising Stars Asia Cup, where he scored 144 off 42 balls for India A against UAE, smashing 11 fours and 15 sixes. His 32-ball hundred made him the youngest man to score a century for any national representative side at senior level, breaking a 20-year-old record. Suryvanshi was the most-searched Indian on Google and ranked sixth overall worldwide. Last month, social media platform Instagram chose to spotlight Suryavanshis journey on its official page - making him only the second Indian cricketer after Virat Kohli to receive the honour. His 32-ball hundred made him the youngest man to score a century for any national representative side at senior level, breaking a 20-year-old record. Also Read: Live Cricket Score He then stunned everyone nine days later by becoming the youngest centurion in the leagues history. Vaibhavs explosive 35-ball 100 against the Gujarat Titans was the fastest IPL century by an Indian and the second-fastest overall, behind only Chris Gayle. Article Source: IANS
Ashes: Australia Take 46-run Lead As 20 Wickets Fall On Day 1 Of MCG Test
Boxing Day Test: Australia held a 46-run lead on day one of the Boxing Day Test after the hosts were bowled out for 152 and England replied with an even limper 110 as a record 20 wickets fell on the first day of the fourth Ashes Test here at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Friday. The last time 20 or more wickets fell on the first day of an Ashes Test in Australia was back in 1901-02, an era where cricket was played on uncovered pitches. After England won the toss and opted to field first, Josh Tongue led the way with the best Boxing Day figures since Ian Botham took 5-41 on this day in 1986. He also became the first English bowler since 1998 to claim a fifer at MCG. It was Gus Atkinson who drew the first blood as he removed Travis Head for 27 in the seventh over. Then came Tongue to the attack and got rid of opener Jake Weatherald for 10 in the tenth over. Marnus Labuschagne was his second victim of the day. Labuschagne (6) was out for his fourth consecutive sub-20 score when his half-drive was nicked to first slip before Tongue made standing-in skipper Steve Smith his third victim, bowling him out cheaply for 9. Soon, Usman Khawaja edged Atkinson before Alex Carey was caught at leg-slip off Ben Stokes and the hosts were reduced to 91/6. From there, Cameron Green and Michael Neser steadied the ship with a 52-run partnership. Neser struck seven boundaries in a team-high 35 before Green's decision to set off for a quick single proved wrong as Brydon Carse threw down the non-striker's end stumps to catch the diving all-rounder well short of his ground. The run-out prompted a collapse as the hosts lost the last four wickets for nine runs in 20 balls as they were dismissed for 152, their lowest Boxing Day score since being rolled for 98 in the 2010-11 Ashes. However, England failed to capitalise on their bowling performance, as they were bowled out for their lowest Test score since their last visit to Victoria in 2021. In reply to Australia's first innings total, England were precariously reduced to 16-4 within eight overs as Mitchell Starc (2-23) and Neser (4-45) wreaked havoc early in the innings. Then Harry Brook slogged 41 in his brief 34-ball innings to give little hope. He stunned the near-full stadium by charging his first ball and missed a reckless slog off Starc. Then, Joe Root's attempted to defend his way out of danger but edged Neser behind for a 15-ball duck. Brook had cleared the fence twice before he was trapped lbw by Boland to spark another collapse as Boland came back to remove Jamie Smith and Will Jacks followed him soon after to leave England 77/7. Neser then had Ben Stokes caught at second slip to see them staring down the barrel of sub-100 total. But with Atkinson's crucial 28, the visitors avoided that embarrassment. Atkinson was dismissed off the bowling of Green and Neser put the last nail in the coffin by getting rid of Carse for 4 as England were bundled out for 110. Neser then had Ben Stokes caught at second slip to see them staring down the barrel of sub-100 total. But with Atkinson's crucial 28, the visitors avoided that embarrassment. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief scores: Australia 152 (Neser 35, Tongue 5-45, Atkinson 2-28) and 4 for 0 lead England 110 (Brook 41, Neser 4-45, Boland 3-30) by 46 runs Article Source: IANS
Ashes: MCG Breaks 2015 WC Final Record With 94199 Attendance On Boxing Day Test
ICC Cricket World Cup Final: The Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) have recorded a massive attendance of 94,199 fans on the opening day of the Boxing Day Test, marking the highest crowd ever recorded for a cricket match at the venue. The historic crowd surpassed the previous record of 93,013, set during the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup Final between Australia and New Zealand. It also established a new record for the highest attended single day of Test cricket, eclipsing the 91,112 spectators who attended the MCG for Day 1 of the 2013 Boxing Day Test between Australia and England. This years record-breaking Day 1, combined with sold-out Days 2 and 3, puts the Ashes cumulative attendance record of 271,865 (also set in 2013) within reach. Australia currently leads the Ashes 30, with one Test (Sydney) remaining after the Boxing Day Test. Melbourne hosted the inaugural Boxing Day Test in 1950. Since then, CA has held contractual rights to use the MCG until the end of March each summer, despite the venue often being used for Australian Rules football in that month. Earlier this year, it extended its venue hire agreement with the MCG until the 2030-31 summer. The iconic venue will also host the historic one-off day-night Test match between arch-rivals Australia and England in March 2027 to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the first Test match, marking the first instance of Australias mens team playing a pink-ball Test at the MCG. Melbourne hosted the inaugural Boxing Day Test in 1950. Since then, CA has held contractual rights to use the MCG until the end of March each summer, despite the venue often being used for Australian Rules football in that month. Earlier this year, it extended its venue hire agreement with the MCG until the 2030-31 summer. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The ballot opened on December 23 and runs until February 6, 2026. Once closed, entries will be randomised and successful applicants will be notified by February 13. Article Source: IANS
Australia seize handy lead after Josh Tongue five-for on 20-wicket day
England were dismissed for 110 at the MCG with Michael Neser and Scott Boland rampant
Cricket Australia CEO Says Hosting Of Day-night Boxing Day Test At MCG Is 'not Off The Cards'
Cricket Australia CEO: Cricket Australia chief executive Todd Greenberg has not ruled out the possibility of a day-night Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The MCG held a womens day-night Test match in January 2025; in addition, the venue will host Australia and England's 150th Anniversary Test under lights in March 2027. Melbourne hosted the inaugural Boxing Day Test in 1950. Since then CA holds contractual rights to use the MCG until the end of March each summer, despite the venue often being used for Australian Rules football in that month. Earlier this year, it extended its venue hire agreement with the MCG until the 2030-31 summer. Look, its not off the cards. Weve been talking a lot about the strength of pink-ball cricket, it was amazing this year in Brisbane, and it has been really good in Adelaide. March 2027, it will get its opportunity here in Melbourne. Greenberg was quoted by Fox Cricket. Due to the enormous crowds expected to pack the MCG across five days between March 11 to 15 for the historic 150th Anniversary Test between Australia and England in March 2027, CA has opened a ticket ballot for the first time in its history. The ballot opened on December 23 and runs until February 6, 2026. Once closed, entries will be randomised, and successful applicants will be notified by February 13. Due to the enormous crowds expected to pack the MCG across five days between March 11 to 15 for the historic 150th Anniversary Test between Australia and England in March 2027, CA has opened a ticket ballot for the first time in its history. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Those who were here in the 77 Centenary (Test) still talk about it in great affection, and our job is to make sure that happens again at the 150th in March 2027, said Greenberg. Article Source: IANS
VHT: Kohli Makes 77 Against Gujarat; Rohit Suffers Golden Duck Vs Uttarakhand
Vijay Hazare Trophy Elite Group: Former Indian skipper Rohit Sharma was dismissed for a golden duck in the first over of Mumbai's innings against Uttarakhand in the Vijay Hazare Trophy Elite Group C match here on Friday. Rohit was caught at deep fine leg off right-arm medium pacer Akash Madhwal Bora on the final delivery of the first over, with Jagmohan Nagarkoti completing the catch after fumbling his initial attempt. The 38-year-old opener made a sensational comeback to domestic cricket, scoring a 62-ball century against Sikkim in what was his first Vijay Hazare Trophy match in seven years for Mumbai on Wednesday. He went on to make 155 off 98 in Mumbai's successful chase. Rohit's century marked the former India skipper's 37th in List A cricket, adding to his tally of 33 international centuries for India. On the other hand, talismanic batter Virat Kohli continued his fine form for Delhi in the Vijay Hazare Trophy as he scored a brisk 77 against Gujarat Elite Group D match in Bengaluru. Kohli's innings was laced with 14 boundaries. He stitched a 72-run second-wicket stand with Arpit Rana and combined 24 runs with Nitish Rana, followed by a small 10-run stand with Rishabh Pant, before he fell victim to Vishal Jayswal in the 22nd over. Playing for Delhi in their clash against Andhra Pradesh here at the BCCIs Centre of Excellence on Wednesday, Kohli achieved the milestone of 16,000 List A runs with his first run in the teams chase of 299. Kohli's innings was laced with 14 boundaries. He stitched a 72-run second-wicket stand with Arpit Rana and combined 24 runs with Nitish Rana, followed by a small 10-run stand with Rishabh Pant, before he fell victim to Vishal Jayswal in the 22nd over. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Kohlis last appearance in the Vijay Hazare Trophy came during the 2010-11 season, where he captained Delhi. He would go on to play in the NKP Salve Challenger Trophy in 2013-14 but had not participated in the Vijay Hazare for nearly a decade before this comeback. Article Source: IANS
Ashes: Tongue Becomes First England Bowler Since 1998 To Take Five-for At MCG
Melbourne Cricket Ground: Josh Tongue scripted history after he became the first England bowler this century to claim a five-wicket haul in Men's Tests at the Melbourne Cricket Ground here on Friday. Tongue picked up 5-45 during Australia's first innings of 152 all out. Reeling 3-0 in the series, Tongue's efforts helped England bowled out Australia for 152 in their first innings of the Boxing Day Test. It was the first time an England bowler had claimed a five-wicket haul in a Test at the MCG since Darren Gough and Dean Headley did so in 1998, with Tongue breaking a 27-year drought as the tourists breathed life into an Ashes series that Australia have already retained. The spell was also Tongue's most productive in Test cricket, surpassing his previous best effort of 5/66 against Ireland at Lord's in 2023. During Australia's second innings, Tongue will be on a hat-trick after dismissing Scott Boland (0) and Michael Neser (35) with the last two balls of the hosts' first innings. Australia didn't have a strong start in front of a superb bowling performance from the visitors after opting to field. Tongue picked three of the top four Australian batters as the hosts lost four wickets in the morning session. The spell was also Tongue's most productive in Test cricket, surpassing his previous best effort of 5/66 against Ireland at Lord's in 2023. During Australia's second innings, Tongue will be on a hat-trick after dismissing Scott Boland (0) and Michael Neser (35) with the last two balls of the hosts' first innings. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Notably, a massive crowd has been confirmed at the MCG with 93,442 people in the house already, a number which could grow further. Article Source: IANS
Australia All Out For 152 As England Take Charge Of 4th Ashes Test
A rampant England tore through the Australian batting to dismiss the hosts for just 152 on day one of the fourth Ashes Test Friday in a huge confidence boost for the maligned tourists. Skipper Ben Stokes won a key toss on a green track and his quicks feasted after sending in Australia under overcast skies at a packed Melbourne Cricket Ground. Openers Travis Head and Jake Weatherald fell for 12 and 10 respectively while Marnus Labuschagne made six as Gus Atkinson and Josh Tongue found plenty of movement. Steve Smith looked to have weathered the storm, but he was cleaned up on nine by Tongue, who knocked back his middle stump to leave England's Barmy Army of fans in full voice. It didn't get much better after lunch with Usman Khawaja (29), Alex Carey (20) and Cameron Green (17) among those departing. Michael Neser top-scored with 35 while Tongue took 5-45. Australia have already retained the Ashes after crushing eight-wicket victories in Perth and Brisbane and an 82-run win in Adelaide, with England desperate to restore pride in Melbourne. Castigated over their limited Ashes preparations, the tourists lost the famous urn in just 11 days of play with a scandal involving alleged excessive drinking by players during a mid-series beach break piling on the pressure. Missing injured pace spearhead Jofra Archer, they reinstated Atkinson after he was axed for Adelaide and he opened the attack. An aggressive Head drove consecutive boundaries off a wayward Brydon Carse, but he only lasted 22 balls, chopping on from Atkinson in the next over. Opening partner Weatherald fared little better, tickling down the leg side to wicketkeeper Jamie Smith in Tongue's first over, with the Nottinghamshire quick then enticing an edge from Labuschagne that was well taken by Joe Root at slip. Smith and Khawaja began to stabilise the innings before Tongue struck again to remove the Australia captain and leave England in control. With the sun breaking through on their return from lunch, Khawaja hit a glorious counter-attacking drive to the boundary off Atkinson. But his luck ran out next ball, getting the faintest of edges to Smith. The umpire initially gave it not out, but it was overturned on review before Adelaide century-maker Carey flicked a Stokes ball to Zak Crawley at leg gully Green, who has had a lean series so far, crunched back-to-back fours off Tongue as he settled in. Not to be outdone, Michael Neser, in his fourth Test but first red-ball affair, went one better, cracking three in succession off the same bowler. But disaster struck again, with Green run out for 17 going for a risky single then Starc hoisted Brydon Carse to a back-peddling Stokes at mid-off before Tongue removed Neser and Scott Boland. Also Read: Live Cricket Score
Cummins To 'cool Heels' After Ashes As T20 World Cup Looms
T20 World Cup: Australia captain Pat Cummins has set his sights on the T20 World Cup 2026 after a successful hit-and-run mission in the Ashes series, saying he is cooling his heels for a bit with the mega spectacle in India and Sri Lanka beginning in early February. Cummins, who missed the first two Ashes Tests as he was recovering from his back issue, returned for the third Test in Adelaide to pick up six wickets in the series-clinching win. With the Ashes urn successfully retained, Australia decided to rule Cummins out for the remainder of the series. But the 38-year-old pacer is with the squad in Melbourne, supporting his teammates from the dressing rooms. Feeling good, so got through Adelaide unscathed so pretty happy, Cummins told Channel 7 during the lunch break on Boxing Day. As of a few weeks ago, was still coming back from a back injury so playing back-to-back Test matches was pretty high risk. Cool our heels for a little bit with T20 World Cup next month, he added. However, speaking on Cummins' T20 World Cup chances, head coach Andrew McDonald had earlier said, That'll be an assessment. I'm assuming he'll have a check-in scan at some point and gather more information around where his back is at looking forward to the World Cup, whether he'll be there or not. I can't really say. It's quite grey at the moment. We're hopeful. Meanwhile, Cummins said veteran spinner Nathan Lyon, who is also ruled out of the remaining Ashes Tests, is facing a lengthy period out following surgery on his hamstring. However, speaking on Cummins' T20 World Cup chances, head coach Andrew McDonald had earlier said, That'll be an assessment. I'm assuming he'll have a check-in scan at some point and gather more information around where his back is at looking forward to the World Cup, whether he'll be there or not. I can't really say. It's quite grey at the moment. We're hopeful. Also Read: Live Cricket Score It was a big one, so surgery, and he has his crutches in the change room at the moment so we wish best ... it was a shame but he put a brave face after the Test, Cummins said. Article Source: IANS
Bullish India Gears Up For Scaled-down Commonwealth Games After Mixed Season In 2025
Summer World University Games: India achieved mixed results in Olympic sports in 2025, securing titles and medals at global and continental levels in shooting, boxing, athletics, archery, badminton, hockey, wrestling, and weightlifting, while also suffering setbacks in many other sports. In archery, the Indian men's recurve team, comprising Dhiraj Bommadevara, Tarundeep Rai, and Atanu Das, won a silver medal at the 2025 World Cup. While India dominated the compound section, the women's team and Jyothi Surekha Vennam won silver medals in the compound team and individual competition. The country did well in the 2025 Summer World University Games, winning 12 medals, including two gold and five silver, in the top multi-discipline, multi-nations competition held this year. Though Neeraj Chopra failed to retain his gold medal in the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, he made history by breaching the 90m mark in javelin throw when he hurled the spear to 90.23m in the Doha Diamond League, winning silver medal and won gold medals in the Golden Spike Ostrava and NC Classic, through which he became an event organiser, and won silver in the 2025 Diamond League Final. Though badminton was a blip on the record book, apart from the top men's doubles pair, Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty, others failed to produce consistent results and win many medals. Cricket provided a major uplift to Indian sport with the men's team winning the Champions Trophy and the women making history by clinching their maiden ODI World Cup at home. Olympic medallist Mirabai Chanu bagged gold in the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championships in Ahmedabad, lifting a record-breaking total of 193 kg. Priteesmita Bhoi and Dharamjyoti Dewghariya also won gold medals in women's 4448 kg and men's 5660 kg events, respectively. India did well in para-sports too, winning six gold medals in the first World Para Athletics Championships held in India, finishing with 22 medals overall. But that's all done and dusted now -- the year 2026 brings new challenges in multi-disciplinary sports. The 2026 Commonwealth Games -- the 23rd edition of the Games will be organised in Glasgow, which hosted the Games in 2014, in which India won 64 medals, including 15 gold medals.However, performing well in the 2026 Glasgow edition of the Commonwealth Games will be very challenging because the upcoming edition will be a scaled-down version of the usual Games. To be held from July 23 to August 2, Glasgow 2026 will have competitions in 10 sports -- athletics, 3x3 basketball, bowls, boxing, gymnastics, judo, netball, swimming, track cycling, and weightlifting. The bigger issue that will impact India's medal tally in the 2026 edition is the absence of sports like shooting, badminton, table tennis, and wrestling -- that the Indians have dominated at the Commonwealth level over the years. These sports are not among the 10 events on the programme -- instead, the schedule includes 3x3 basketball, bowls, gymnastics, netball, swimming, and track cycling, which are not the strong points of the country. Because of 10 sports, the overall medals on offer are fewer than usual. Thus, the Indians will have to travel to Glasgow with low expectations as competitions will be held in Athletics (43 disciplines) and para-athletics (16); 3x3 basketball for men and women along with 3x3 wheelchair basketball; bowls and para bowls, boxing, gymnastics including artistic gymnastics; judo (14 medals), Netball, swimming and para-swimming, track cycling and para track-cycling, besides weightlifting and para-weightlifting. Some events in athletics (marathons and race walking) and cycling (mountain bike and road cycling) have also been dropped. Besides, several sports programmes have seen changes in their formats. In some cases, the number of quotas has increased; in other cases, a new variety will be played for the first time. Thus, the Indians will have to travel to Glasgow with low expectations as competitions will be held in Athletics (43 disciplines) and para-athletics (16); 3x3 basketball for men and women along with 3x3 wheelchair basketball; bowls and para bowls, boxing, gymnastics including artistic gymnastics; judo (14 medals), Netball, swimming and para-swimming, track cycling and para track-cycling, besides weightlifting and para-weightlifting. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Glasgow 2026 will provide India with the best test for the new competitions and the funding increase. It is now up to the competitors to show results at the global level. Article Source: IANS
India Women vs Sri Lanka Women, 3rd T20I - Who will win today IND-W vs SL-W match?
IND-W vs SL-W , 3rd T20I , Cricket Tips :Jemimah Rodrigues in the first game and Shafali Verma in the second T20I played crucial roles for India Women to help the hosts win two matches. With a 2-0 lead, Harmanpreet Kaur and co. will take on Sri Lanka Women in the third game on Friday. This game will start at 7 PM IST at Greenfield International Stadium. India have been professional with the ball in both games, restricting the visitors under 130. For Sri Lanka, their batters need to take more responsbility. Because it will become difficult for them to perform with this fragile batting unit. IND-W vs SL-W: Match Details Date : December 26, 2025 (Friday) Time : 7:00 PM IST Venue : Greenfield International Stadium, Thiruvananthapuram IND-W vs SL-W: Live Streaming Details The live action of the third T20I on Friday will be available on the Star Sports Network. Fans can also watch the game live on the Jio Hotstar app or website. IND-W vs SL-W: Head-to-Head Total Matches : 28 India : 22 Sri Lanka : 05 No-Result : 01 IND-W vs SL-W: Ground Pitch Report The wicket at Greenfield Stadium is likely to be a good batting wicket. It has a nice carry, and the batters can use the bounce and play their shots. The outfield is also fast, and dew makes it difficult for the bowling side to execute their bowling plans. IND-W vs SL-W: Possible XIs India : Smriti Mandhana, Harmanpreet Kaur (c), Shafali Verma, Richa Ghosh (wk), Jemimah Rodrigues, Amanjot Kaur, Vaishnavi Sharma, Sneh Rana, Arundhati Reddy, Kranti Gaud, Shree Charani. South Africa : Chamari Athapaththu (c), Vishmi Gunaratne, Hasini Perera, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Kavisha Dilhari, Nilakshi de Silva, Kaushani Nuthyangana (wk), Inoka Ranaweera, Malki Madara, Kawya Kavindi, Shashini Gimhani IND-W vs SL-W: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Shafali Verma plays freely. She showed in the last game how dangerous she can be and will be a big wicket for Sri Lanka. Chamari Athapaththu has the most runs between these two teams in T20Is. She is someone who can play at a higher strike rate. Probable Best Bowler Shree Charani bowled a brilliant spell in the last game and made the difference. He will look to do something similar in the next game as well. For Sri Lanka, Kawya Kavindi has been the best bowler for Sri Lanka. Today Match Prediction : India are stronger in all three departments. That is why we predict India Women to win the third T20I. IND-W vs SL-W 3rd T20I, Today Match IND-W vs SL-W, IND-W vs SL-W Prediction, IND-W vs SL-W Predicted XIs, Injury Update of the match between India Women vs Sri Lanka Women Also Read: Live Cricket Score Disclaimer : The prediction or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.
Australia vs England, 4th Test- Who will win today AUS vs ENG match?
AUS vs ENG , 4th Test , Cricket Tips :All the confidence and hopes ahead of the Ashes 2025-26 have been shattered by Australia in just 11 days. Australia, without their best XI, have hammered England in all three games to take a 3-0 unassailable lead. Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon, who joined the team for the third test, have been ruled out of the last two games. Steve Smith will be back as captain, who missed the third Test. Australia will take on England in the fourth Test on Friday, December 26, at Melbourne Cricket Ground at 5 AM IST. England have dropped Ollie Pope, while Jofra Archer has been injured. Jacob Bethell and Gus Atkinson are two changes for the visitors. AUS vs ENG: Match Details Date : December 26-30, 2025 (Friday-Tuesday) Time : 5:00 AM IST Venue : Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne AUS vs ENG: Live Streaming Details Indian fans can watch the live action of the MCG Test on the Star Sports Networks. Fans can also enjoy the live stream on the Jio Hotstar app or website. AUS vs ENG: Head-to-Head in Tests Total Matches : 364 Australia : 155 England : 112 Drawn : 97 AUS vs ENG: Ground Pitch Report MCG is considered an excellent venue for the bowlers. It is fast and has good bounce, which will be consistent throughout the game. The overhead conditions will also aid the fast bowlers, and it will be difficult to bat on. Teams should bowl first to use the conditions. AUS vs ENG: Possible XIs Australia : Travis Head, Jake Weatherald, Usman Khawaja, Steven Smith , Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green, Josh Inglis , Alex Carey (wk), Mitchell Starc, Michael Neser, Scott Boland England : Ben Duckett, Zak Crawley, Jacob Bethell, Joe Root, Ben Stokes (c), Harry Brook, Jamie Smith (wk), Will Jacks, Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse, Josh Tongue AUS vs ENG: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Travis Head has been the X-factor, and his century in Adelaide was one reason that Australia won. Joe Root has been the leading scorer for England, and he is the one that England rely on. Probable Best Bowler Mitchell Starc has 22 wickets in just three games, and he is bowling game-changing spells. Brydon Carse has been the pick of the bowlers for England and has the most wickets for England. Today Match Prediction : Australia will be favorites because they have players who are performing under pressure. Unlike England, who are letting the momentum slip every time, they put Australia under pressure. AUS vs ENG Match 4th Test, Today Match AUS vs ENG, AUS vs ENG Prediction, AUS vs ENG Predicted XIs, Injury Update of the match between Australia vs England Also Read: Live Cricket Score Disclaimer : The prediction or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.
West Indian Sunil Narine: As they get ready for their opening match in the SA20, MI Cape Town captain Rashid Khan is banking on the experienced players in his squad to adapt to the conditions as they hope to continue their overall performance in this edition of the competition. Rashid Khan is hoping to extend his teams proud Newlands record in their opening SA20 Season 4 match against Durbans Super Giants (DSG) on Friday. The defending champions are unbeaten across five matches at home in Season 3, transforming Newlands into a fortress and their campaign into a title-winning success. The home side is packed with a host of superstars such as Proteas Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Corbin Bosch, along with internationals Rashid Khan, Trent Boult, and new arrival Nicholas Pooran, ready to entertain the MI Cape Town faithful. Captain Rashid Khan feels his team is ready to express themselves after claiming the title last season. There was more pressure last year than this year, you know, we came at the bottom twice in a row and to come up from that and win the trophy was a big thing for us as a team, Rashid Khan said. I think what we did right was we played collectively as a team, and we took the responsibility at certain points of the game. Every player is well experienced, and they will adjust themselves to the condition and the position of the team quite quickly. Everyone is so professional, they have played so much cricket around the world, and I think it won't be that difficult for them to acclimatise. MI Cape Town are eager to start the new campaign on a similar footing, with Rashid Khan expecting Pooran to hit the ground running for his new team. He (Pooran) is going to bring lots of energy to the game, he said. We know how dangerous and how good a cricketer he is. He is the kind of person who comes in smashing lots of sixes, you will see. Hes a guy full of energy and entertainment, and I am sure he is going to love his time here. Durbans Super Giants have revamped their squad and are quite capable of being the Grinch of Christmas past by spoiling MI Cape Towns homecoming. New captain Aiden Markram, who has won the competition twice previously with Sunrisers Eastern Cape, brings a wealth of experience and a winning mentality to Lance Kluseners team. The Super Giants have an equal array of sparkling dust sprinkled through their star-studded squad, with Markram joined by Englands former T20 World Cup-winning captain Jos Buttler. The batting department boasts further experience in New Zealand legend Kane Williamson and former Proteas white-ball basher Heinrich Klaasen. West Indian Sunil Narine is unfortunately not available as yet, but the Super Giants have recruited Proteas Test hero Simon Harmer to further bolster a spinning contingent that already boasts Afghanistan mystery bowler Noor Ahmad. The batting department boasts further experience in New Zealand legend Kane Williamson and former Proteas white-ball basher Heinrich Klaasen. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I think a lot of it comes down to finding our strength as a team and our identity and what gives us the best chance to play good cricket and win games of cricket, so it's obviously a new and exciting challenge for us in a competition with a lot of new faces. Article Source: IANS
Virat Kohli Sends Warm Christmas And Happy New Year Wishes To Everyone
Merry Christmas And Happy New: Talismanic India batter Virat Kohli has extended warm Christmas and New Year greetings to fans worldwide, wishing joy and prosperity for the festive season. The former India captain conveyed his message through his Instagram stories on Thursday, when the world was occupied with Christmas celebrations. Merry Christmas And Happy New Year. May this season fill your home with warmth, your heart with joy, and your life with happiness that lasts all year long. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! wrote Kohli in an Instagram post on Thursday. Kohli, who has quit Test and T20Is and now only plays 50-over cricket at the international stage, struck a match-winning 131 to guide Delhi to a four-wicket victory in their Elite Group D clash over Andhra Pradesh in the opening round of the Vijay Hazare Trophy on Wednesday. It was also Kohlis 58th List A hundred with his 131 coming in 101 balls and studded with 14 fours and three sixes, as Delhi chased down a challenging target of 299 in 37.4 overs. The knock also took him past 16,000 List A runs, making him only the second Indian male batter, after the legendary Sachin Tendulkar, to reach that landmark. Kohli, the right-handed batter who only plays ODI format internationally, will next be in action when Delhi face Gujarat in their second round fixture at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru on Friday. The second round matches of the Vijay Hazare Trophy, which will be livestreamed on JioHotstar, are Assam vs Jammu & Kashmir and Jharkhand vs Rajasthan. This means that fans wont be able to see Kohlis batting live and will have to rely on the BCCI website scoreboard. The knock also took him past 16,000 List A runs, making him only the second Indian male batter, after the legendary Sachin Tendulkar, to reach that landmark. Kohli, the right-handed batter who only plays ODI format internationally, will next be in action when Delhi face Gujarat in their second round fixture at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru on Friday. Also Read: Live Cricket Score --IANS Article Source: IANS
Vaishnavis Selection Was Due To Selectors Rewarding Her Domestic Performance, Says Muzumdar
Inter Zonal T20s: Vaishnavi Sharmas inclusion in the Indian team for the ongoing T20I series against Sri Lanka was a recognition of her strong domestic performances by the Amita Sharma-led selection committee, head coach Amol Muzumdar said on Thursday. Vaishnavi has made a promising start to her T20I career by picking 2-32 in the second T20I against Sri Lanka after debuting in the series opener in Visakhapatnam, where she conceded only 16 runs in her four overs. I think she responded really well to what we had asked for. Credit to her that she comes from the under-19s. Her exploits in the under-19 were probably rewarded, and also her domestic performance. I would like to stress here that domestic performance was rewarded by the selectors. So real credit to them, said Muzumdar in the pre-match press conference. Vaishnavi was a part of the Under-19 side that clinched the Womens T20 World Cup earlier this year, and ended as the tournaments leading wicket-taker with 17 scalps. The left-arm spinner has also impressed in this domestic cricket season, claiming 21 wickets in the Senior Womens T20 Trophy and topping the charts with 12 dismissals in five matches at the Senior Womens Inter Zonal T20s. Surprisingly, she went unsold in the WPL 2026 mega auction, but has managed to put on a great show so far against Sri Lanka. I think in the last two games, what we have seen, it seems very promising. The control that she has shown, not just in her skills but also in her mental control, is out there. She's calm, collective. As I said, she looks promising, added Muzumdar. With 2026 being the year in which the T20 World Cup will be played in England in June-July, Muzumdar said the focus is on having a settled combination before the mega event in the shortest format commences. We try to be as settled as possible. We had this thing going during the ODI World Cup as well. Six months down the line, there is a T20 World Cup. We are well aware of certain things. What we need to improve and in what direction we want to take this T20 side. Trying out a lot of stuff but at the same time making sure that we look and we are well settled, well and truly before the World Cup, he added. India have shown signs of inconsistencies in fielding, but Muzumdar stated they are trying to be constantly better in all aspects of the game. We consistently speak about improving all three facets of the game, not just fielding. In fact, there is a fourth one now, which is fitness, so its batting, bowling, fielding, and fitness. We consistently talk about all the facets. Nothing in particular about one facet of the game. We are and want to be a progressive side. We have long chats and short chats also. It's that we are constantly trying to improve day by day in all facets of the game. Life after winning the ODI World Cup has made the side the toast of the nation, and Muzumdar signed off by saying the team has indeed got a happier glow when practising and playing matches. We consistently talk about all the facets. Nothing in particular about one facet of the game. We are and want to be a progressive side. We have long chats and short chats also. It's that we are constantly trying to improve day by day in all facets of the game. Also Read: Live Cricket Score You can see in the first, at least whatever I saw in the first two games, it was a fantastic effort. Sri Lanka is a very good side. There is no doubt about it. Every side, every opponent, we look at it as a challenge. They have got some fantastic players. We respect that. Every opponent, we do treat them with equal respect. Article Source: IANS
WPL 2026: Ticket Sales For Navi Mumbai And Vadodara Games To Begin On December 26
DY Patil Sports Academy: Tickets for the 2026 Women's Premier League (WPL) matches in Navi Mumbai and Vadodara will go on sale from December 26 at 6 pm IST, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) said in a statement on Thursday. The WPL 2026 will be played across two venues - DY Patil Sports Academy in Navi Mumbai and BCA Stadium in Vadodara. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has named District as the official ticketing agency for the fourth edition of the exciting TATA WPL. Tickets can be purchased from the official WPL website, WPL app on Android and iOS, and also on the District website, further said the BCCI. The tournament begins on January 9 when defending champions Mumbai Indians, led by Harmanpreet Kaur, host 2024 winners Royal Challengers Bengaluru, captained by Smriti Mandhana. Navi Mumbai will stage 11 matches till January 17 before the action shifts to Vadodara for the remaining 11 fixtures, including the playoffs. Gujarat Giants will open the Vadodara leg with a clash against RCB, followed by a rematch of the 2025 final between Delhi Capitals, to be led by Jemimah Rodrigues, and Mumbai Indians. Once the league stage concludes on February 1, the Eliminator, contested by the second- and third-placed sides, will be held on February 3. The table topper advances directly to the final, to be played on February 5. Set to be staged for the first time in the January-February window, the WPL avoids clashes with major womens international cricket fixtures after three seasons were held in the February-March slot. Gujarat Giants will open the Vadodara leg with a clash against RCB, followed by a rematch of the 2025 final between Delhi Capitals, to be led by Jemimah Rodrigues, and Mumbai Indians. Once the league stage concludes on February 1, the Eliminator, contested by the second- and third-placed sides, will be held on February 3. The table topper advances directly to the final, to be played on February 5. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The upcoming 2026 season of the Women's Premier League (WPL) is the fourth season of the event, which started in 2023. The Mumbai Indians Women are the most successful team, having won two titles in three years, while the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) is the other team to have won the WPL title. Article Source: IANS
Shreyas Iyer To Undergo Assessment At CoE After Resuming Batting Post Spleen Injury
Sydney Cricket Ground: India batter Shreyas Iyer will be reporting to the Board of Control for Cricket in Indias (BCCI) Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru for further assessment of his recovery from a spleen injury, following his resuming batting practice in his hometown Mumbai. Iyer, Indias ODI vice-captain, suffered a serious spleen laceration while attempting to take a diving catch of Australia wicketkeeper-batter Alex Carey during the third ODI against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground on October 25. Subsequent scans at a hospital in Sydney revealed internal bleeding that required immediate hospitalisation and intensive care. He underwent a minor surgical procedure to control the bleeding and was closely monitored by local medical specialists in Australia and India, including the Indian team doctor, before his condition improved and he flew back home. Today, Iyer will report to CoE, as he flew to Bengaluru from Mumbai earlier in the day. As of now, theres no clarity on how many days he will spend there. It might take about four to six days for the medical team to assess him thoroughly. After that, the CoE will decide the further course of action and set clear timelines in terms of his total recovery and likelihood of being match fit, said sources familiar with the matter to IANS on Thursday. The encouraging part is that Iyer batted for around 30-45 minutes at the Cricket Club of India (CCI) nets in Mumbai, after starting lightweight gym training nearly ten days ago. Even after batting yesterday, he was reported to be okay and has been feeling better about himself. There were no indications of pain or anything else, said another source tracking Iyers recovery. After that, the CoE will decide the further course of action and set clear timelines in terms of his total recovery and likelihood of being match fit, said sources familiar with the matter to IANS on Thursday. Also Read: Live Cricket Score If its felt that his total recovery requires more time, then Iyer can be told to come back for another assessment after either 10 days or one week. After that, if hes deemed match fit, he could play Vijay Hazare Trophy games for Mumbai. But if that doesnt happen, he might play straightaway in IPL 2026, where he captains Punjab Kings, further said sources. Article Source: IANS
There Was More Pressure Last Year Than This Year, Says Rashid Ahead Of SA20 Opener
MI Cape Town: MI Cape Town captain Rashid Khan said his side face less pressure in the upcoming SA20 season starting on Friday after claiming the trophy in the previous edition of the competition. The defending champions return to Newlands on Friday with an aim to get their title defence up and running against a revamped Durban's Super Giants (DSG). Apart from Rashid, the side boasts of Proteas stars Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton and Corbin Bosch alongside Trent Boult and new recruit Nicholas Pooran. There was more pressure last year than this year, you know we came at the bottom twice in a row and to come up from that and win the trophy was a big thing for us as a team. I think what we did right was we played collectively as a team and we took the responsibility at certain points of the game. Every player is well experienced, and they will adjust themselves with the condition and the position of the team quite quickly. Everyone is so professional, they have played so much cricket around the world, and I think it won't be that difficult for them to acclimatise, said Rashid in a SA20 release ahead of the opening game. He also expects Pooran to hit the ground running for his new team. He (Pooran) is going to bring lots of energy to the game. We know how dangerous and how good a cricketer he is. He is a kind of a person who comes in smashing lots of sixes you will see. Hes a guy full of energy and entertainment and I am sure he is going to love his time here. DSG, meanwhile, have a new captain in Aiden Markram, who has won the competition twice previously with Sunrisers Eastern Cape (SEC), and brings a wealth of experience and winning mentality to Lance Klusener-coached team. DSG have a star-studded squad via the presence of Englands 2022 T20 World Cup-winning captain Jos Buttler, New Zealand batter Williamson and former Proteas white-ball big-hitter Heinrich Klaasen. West Indies off-spin all-rounder Sunil Narine is unfortunately not available as yet, but DSG have recruited Proteas Test hero Simon Harmer to further bolster a spinning contingent that already has Afghanistan mystery bowler Noor Ahmad. DSG have a star-studded squad via the presence of Englands 2022 T20 World Cup-winning captain Jos Buttler, New Zealand batter Williamson and former Proteas white-ball big-hitter Heinrich Klaasen. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I think a lot of it comes down to finding our strength as a team and our identity and what gives us the best chance to play good cricket and win games of cricket, so it's obviously a new and exciting challenge for us in a competition with a lot of new faces, said Markram. Article Source: IANS
'I will not work in the BPL' - Noakhali Express coaches raise a stink over poor arrangements
Khaled Mahmud and Talha Jubair left the training session in Sylhet owing to the lack of enough balls to train with
'Kohli & Rohit Lighting Up Domestic Cricket', Says Pathan After Duos Heroics In Vijay Hazare Trophy
Vijay Hazare Trophy: Former India cricketer Irfan Pathan was mighty impressed with Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharmas showings with the bat in the Vijay Hazare Trophy after the two stalwarts notched up centuries for their respective teams on Wednesday. Rohit, playing for Mumbai, scored a match-winning 155 against Sikkim on the opening day of the tournament, while Kohli, playing against Andhra Pradesh, notched up 131 to help Delhi win by four wickets. Virat Kohli & Rohit Sharma lighting up domestic cricket. Its a lifetime experience for young domestic cricketers to share the dressing room with them and learn so much. Absolutely loving this phase of Indian cricket, Pathan wrote on X. The first half of the Vijay Hazare Trophy's opening day featured record-breaking centuries, but Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli took centre stage in the second half, each scoring centuries upon their return to the premier one-day domestic tournament.Rohit hit his century in just 62 balls, soon after Kohli, who scored a swift 83-ball century, demonstrated their dominance over opponents. Rohit made a notable return to domestic cricket, scoring a century in his first Vijay Hazare Trophy match in seven years for Mumbai on Wednesday. Kohli confidently led the run chase, displaying his usual style, and reached a magnificent hundred. This is his 58th List A century and the third in four innings since the South Africa series earlier this month. With his first run of the innings, Kohli joined an elite group as the ninth player to reach 16,000 List A runs, with over 14,000 scored for India since his debut in 2008. During the match, Kohli also cemented his place in cricket history by achieving 16000 List A runs. With his first run of the innings, Kohli joined an elite group as the ninth player to reach 16,000 List A runs, with over 14,000 scored for India since his debut in 2008. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The 37-year-old now ranks as the ninth player overall to pass this mark, alongside legends like Tendulkar, Ricky Ponting, Kumar Sangakkara, Sir Vivian Richards, and others. Article Source: IANS
India target series win against under-pressure Sri Lanka
They are leading the five match T20I series 2-0 against a side undergoing a transition phase
WPL 2026: Ex-India Player Anagha Deshpande Joins Delhi Capitals As Assistant Coach
DY Patil Stadium: Ahead of the 2026 season of the Womens Premier League (WPL), former India cricketer Anagha Deshpande has joined three-time runners-up Delhi Capitals (DC) as an assistant coach. It is understood that Anaghas coaching duties will center around fielding and batting in the DC set-up. Yes, I am joining the Delhi Capitals. It was finalised a few days ago. Hundred percent, it's a great opportunity for me. I will get to learn a lot of things which will aid me in future. I have seen them try for winning a trophy for three years. I hope I can help them win the trophy this time, Anagha told IANS on Thursday. At DC, Anagha will link up with head coach Jonathan Batty. Her appointment comes after the exit of Lisa Keightley, who has joined Mumbai Indians as head coach, and Milap Mewada, who is now coaching Goas mens team in the ongoing domestic season. Anagha played 23 ODIs and eight T20Is for India from 2008 to 2014, and made 483 runs across both formats. As a wicketkeeper, she took 16 catches and effected 21 stumpings in white-ball cricket for India. She played for Maharashtra, Railways, Gujarat and Puducherry in the domestic cricket circuit. Anagha has enjoyed considerable success as a coach in Uttarakhand since retiring as a player. She led the state's U19 women's team to one-day trophy titles in 2021/22 and 2022/23, and guided the U23 side to entering knockout stages in T20 and one-day championships in 2023/24 and 2024/25. Under Anagha, Uttarakhand reached their first senior women's finals in both T20 and one-day formats in 2023/24. Players like Nandini Kashyap, Raghvi Bist and Prema Rawat, all of whom featured in this year's WPL and India A teams, attribute their growth to Anaghas coaching. She has also worked as a coach with many teams in senior and U19 womens challenger trophies, as well as served in various assignments at the zonal and national level for camps organised by the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE). DC will open their 2026 WPL campaign on January 10 against defending champions Mumbai Indians at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. India batter Jemimah Rodrigues was recently named as DCs new captain, and Anagha backed the decision. I have seen her leadership. She is well deserving to be the captain. I have seen her lead Mumbai. The way her nature is in terms of leading a team, there is no need for a tag to say that she is a leader. She plays in the same way as a player and now that she has a leadership tag, she is hundred percent well deserving of it, she said. Meanwhile, IANS understands that former India captain Anju Jain is likely to take charge as DCs batting coach. Anju featured in eight Tests and 65 ODIs for India from 1993 to 2005, and amassed 2170 runs overall. Apart from hitting one century and three fifties in Tests, she claimed 15 catches and effected eight stumpings in the format, while contributing with 30 catches and 51 stumpings in ODIs. Meanwhile, IANS understands that former India captain Anju Jain is likely to take charge as DCs batting coach. Anju featured in eight Tests and 65 ODIs for India from 1993 to 2005, and amassed 2170 runs overall. Also Read: Live Cricket Score She also served as the head coach of Bangladesh womens team, and worked in the same capacity with Odisha, Vidarbha, Assam, Tripura and Baroda teams in the domestic circuit. Article Source: IANS
BPL: BCB takes over ownership of Chattogram Royals day before start of new season
The franchise wrote in the letter that due to media reports, they couldn't find sponsors for the team, BCB spokesperson tells ESPNcricinfo
With Historic ODI World Cup Glory Behind Them, India Women Target New Highs In 2026
ODI World Cup: The Indian women's cricket team enters 2026 riding on unprecedented momentum after their historic triumph in the 2025 ODI World Cup, with a packed schedule offering multiple opportunities to cement their dominance. The World Cup victory - India's first-ever senior ICC womens trophy - has transformed expectations around the Harmanpreet Kaur-led side. It has also meant that the narrative around the Indian team has shifted from contenders to being capable of winning championships consistently. Adding to it, India retaining its 2025 U19 Womens T20 World Cup title in Malaysia and the A team winning a 50-over series in Australia meant 2025 will forever be remembered as a golden year for womens cricket in the country. After the five T20Is against Sri Lanka end their 2025 commitments, the members of the Indian team will join their respective franchises for the 2026 Women's Premier League (WPL) happening from January 9 to February 5 in Navi Mumbai and Vadodara. It will be the first WPL edition since the ODI World Cup triumph, and everyones attention will be on the new gems that the event will produce for the national team. India then embarks on a gruelling all-format tour to Australia in February-March before shifting focus to preparing for the ICC Women's T20 World Cup to be played in England from June 12 to July 5. In their preparation to add the shortest format's crown to their ODI title, India will also play three T20Is against England from May 28 to June 2. Once the tournament is over, India and England will contest in the first-ever women's Test match at Lord's Cricket Ground, starting on July 10. It will break new ground for womens cricket at the iconic venue that has hosted men's World Cup finals and cricket's most prestigious games for over two centuries. India then embarks on a gruelling all-format tour to Australia in February-March before shifting focus to preparing for the ICC Women's T20 World Cup to be played in England from June 12 to July 5. In their preparation to add the shortest format's crown to their ODI title, India will also play three T20Is against England from May 28 to June 2. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Key challenges for the Indian team include maintaining consistency in formats, managing workload for star players, and building depth beyond the core group that delivered ODI World Cup glory. Article Source: IANS
Smith To Lead Australia As Host Confirms To Play With Four Quicks, No Spinner In MCG Test
MCG Test: Australian stand-in captain Steve Smith opted for an all-pace attack for the fourth Ashes Test against England with the hosts yet to settle on their Playing XI. Smith announced the final 12 for the fourth Test after Australias last training session on Thursday and said selectors would assess the quite furry MCG pitch again on Friday morning before finalising their pace attack, with Michael Neser, Brendan Doggett and returning quick Jhye Richardson vying for the final two places. We've landed on a 12, we just want to take a look at the wicket tomorrow. We're going to be playing four quicks and no spinner. (The pitch) has 10mm of grass, quite furry, quite green. I dare say it's going to offer quite a bit, particularly (day one) is similar conditions to today, quite cold and overcast so I dare say there's going to be quite a bit of movement, Smith told reporters on Thursday morning. You just got to play what surface you're presented with; this one looks like it's going to offer a fair bit of assistance for the seam bowlers and the weather throughout the week looks conducive for that too. I think if Nathan (Lyon) was (available), we'd probably still be having the same conversation as well, so it's certainly nothing to do with Todd's skill, he added. If selected, Richardson will end a four-year drought between Test matches this week, with his most recent appearance in the national red-ball side coming back in December 2021. It's exciting to see Richardson back into the fold, he's had a pretty long layoff with injury, and we know the skills he can posses. He's done it against England before in an Ashes. We've seen when he's had the opportunity at this level, he's been outstanding, Smith said. Reserve wicketkeeper Josh Inglis drops out to make way for Smith, who missed last weeks Adelaide Test with a vestibular illness, while captain Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon remain sidelined with injuries. Im far better than I was last week. I obviously had a few bad days before the Test and for the first couple of days of the Test, and then all my vestibular stuff settled down. Im feeling 100 per cent. It was a shame to miss that one. It looked like a pretty nice wicket for batting. I was watching in the hotel those first two days, and wished I could have been out there, but it was the right call at that stage. I was struggling, Smith said. Im far better than I was last week. I obviously had a few bad days before the Test and for the first couple of days of the Test, and then all my vestibular stuff settled down. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Australia XII for fourth Test: Travis Head, Jake Weatherald, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith (c), Usman Khawaja, Alex Carey (wk), Cameron Green, Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland, Brendan Doggett, Michael Neser, Jhye Richardson Article Source: IANS
Australia lock in all-pace attack for 'quite green' MCG pitch
Murphy omitted from the trimmed-down 12-man squad named by Smith, who returns from illness
Hockey Star Hardik Singh Proposed For Khel Ratna; 24 Recommended For Arjuna Awards
Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna: Two-time Olympic bronze medallist hockey player Hardik Singh has been recommended for the prestigeous Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna, the highest award for sportsperons given the government, while athletes Tejaswin Shankar, Priyanka, chess grandmaster Vidit Santosh Gujarati and Divya Deshmukh, shooters Akhil Sheron and Mehuli Ghosh and women's badminton pair of Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand were among those recommended for the Arjuna Award by the committee set up by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports on Wednesday. The committee, which met in New Delhi on Wednesday, has recommended the 27-year-old midfielder, Hardik, for the prestigious award for his contributions to the Indian hockey team in the last two years. Hardik has played a key role in the Indian team winning bronze medals in the Tokyo and Paris Olympic Games and was also a member of the Indian team that won gold in the Asian Games in Hangzhou in 2023 and the Asia Cup 2025 in Rajgir. Born in Khusropur in Punjab, Hardik, who has been a mainstay of the Indian men's hockey team, has so far earned 166 caps with the national team and is employed with the Indian Oil Corporation (IOC). Six hockey players have been conferred the Khel Ratna so far - Dhanraj Pillay (1999-2000), Sardar Singh (2017), Rani Rampal (2020), PR Sreejesh (2021), Manpreet Singh (2021), and Harmanpreet Singh (2024). Sources said his was the only name recommended by the panel. What was surprising for many was that no member of the Indian women's cricket team, which made history by winning their maiden Women's ODI World Cup title last month, was considered by the panel. Interestingly, last year, Indian mens hockey team captain Harmanpreet Singh received the Khel Ratna alongside two-time Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker, chess prodigy Gukesh D, and para-athlete Praveen Kumar. The selection committee also recommended 24 sportspersons for the Arjuna Awards, including Aarti Pal, who became the first yogasana athlete to be recommended for the honour. Aarti is the reigning national and Asian champion in yogasana, which will feature as a demonstration sport at the Asian Games in Japan next year. Rifle shooter Mehuli Ghosh, gymnast Pranati Nayak, and India's top-ranked women's badminton pair of Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand are also among the recommendations. Polo star Padmanabh Singh, along with Sonam Malik (wrestling), Sutirtha Mukherjee (table tennis), Rudransh Khandelwal (para-shooting), Olympian rower Arvind Singh, and Ekta Bhyan (para-athletics), have also been recommended. Notably, no cricketer features among this years recommendations. Mohammed Shami was the last cricketer to receive the Arjuna Award in 2023. The committee did not suggest any names for the Dronacharya Award and the Dhyan Chand Lifetime Award. The recommendations: The committee did not suggest any names for the Dronacharya Award and the Dhyan Chand Lifetime Award. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Arjuna Award: Tejaswin Shankar (athletics), Priyanka (athletics), Narender (boxing), Vidit Gujrathi (chess), Divya Deshmukh (chess), Dhanush Srikanth (deaf shooting), Pranati Nayak (gymnastics), Rajkumar Pal (hockey), Surjeet (kabaddi), Nirmala Bhati (kho kho), Rudransh Khandelwal (para-shooting), Ekta Bhyan (para-athletics), Padmanabh Singh (polo), Arvind Singh (rowing), Akhil Sheoran (shooting), Mehuli Ghosh (shooting), Sutirtha Mukherjee (table tennis), Sonam Malik (wrestling), Aarti Pal (yogasana), Treesa Jolly (badminton), Gayatri Gopichand (badminton), Lalremsiami (hockey), Mohammed Afsal (athletics), Pooja (kabaddi). Article Source: IANS
Narendra Modi Stadium Ground: Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Vaibhav Suryavanshi, along with Ishan Kishan and Devdutt Padikkal, smashed centuries to benefit their respective teams in Round One of the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025/26 Season on Wednesday. It was a day on which a record 22 individual centuries were scored on the opening day of the competition. From a team perspective, Karnataka and Bengal completed mammoth successful run chases to make a big statement on Day One of Indias premier domestic mens one-day tournament. Kohli marked his return to Bengaluru with a commanding century as Delhi chased down 299 against Andhra with more than 12 overs to spare in their Elite Group D opener on Wednesday. Kohli's 58th List A hundred - 131 off 101 balls with 14 fours and three sixes - at the BCCI Centre of Excellence Ground overshadowed Ricky Bhui's 122 for Andhra as Delhi secured a four-wicket victory. Delhi pacer Simarjeet Singh was adjudged Player of the Match for picking 5-54. Meanwhile, in Jaipur, another former India captain, Rohit Sharma, produced a masterclass in front of over 20,000 spectators at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium, smashing an unbeaten 155 off 94 balls to guide Mumbai to an eight-wicket victory over Sikkim in Elite Group C. Rohit raced to his 37th List A century in just 62 balls before adding another 50 runs off 29 deliveries, cutting and driving at will against an inexperienced Sikkim attack that had posted 236/6, as Mumbai chased down the target in 30.3 overs. In Ranchi, Bihar posted a staggering 574/6 - now the highest score in men's List A cricket - as teenage sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi smashed 190 off 84 balls and captain Sakibul Gani blasted an unbeaten 128 off 40 balls - the fastest by an Indian batter in men's List A cricket - to crush Arunachal Pradesh by 397 runs in a Plate Group match on Wednesday. Suryavanshi struck 16 fours and 15 sixes in his blistering knock at a strike rate of 226.19, adding 158 runs for the opening wicket with Mangal Mahrour (33) before combining with Piyush Singh (77 off 66 balls) for a 103-run second-wicket partnership. Wicketkeeper Ayush Loharuka continued the carnage with 116 off 56 balls, including hitting 11 fours and eight sixes, before Gani unleashed mayhem in the final overs by hitting 10 fours and 12 sixes to propel Bihar past the 500-mark. Bihar's bowlers then completed the rout, dismissing Arunachal Pradesh for just 177 in 42.1 overs with Akash Raj (3-29), Suraj Kashyap (3-31) and Himanshu Tiwari (2-33) sharing eight wickets between themselves. In Rajkot, Dhruv Jurel and Rinku Singh hit half-centuries as Uttar Pradesh opened their campaign with an 84-run win over Hyderabad at the Niranjan Shah Stadium. Apart from the duo, Abhishek Goswami and Aryan Juyal were among their other half-centurions. UP's spin trio - List A debutants Zeeshan Ansari (4-31) and Prashant Veer (3-47), along with Vipraj Nigam - stifled Hyderabad's chase of 325 after the UP top-order posted 324/5. Hyderabad captain Tanmay Agarwal's 53 off 43 balls threatened briefly before the lower-order collapsed, as they were bowled out for 240. Defending champions Karnataka pulled off a stunning run chase, overhauling a record target of 413 against Jharkhand with 15 balls to spare at the Narendra Modi Stadium Ground B in Ahmedabad. Player of the Match Devdutt Padikkal's brilliantly-paced 147 off 118 balls eclipsed Ishan Kishan's explosive 125 off just 39 balls - the second fastest List A century by an Indian male batter - as Karnataka romped home despite losing five wickets on the way. Captain Mayank Agarwal (54 off 34 balls) and Padikkal added 114 in the first 11.5 overs before Abhinav Manohar (56 not out) and debutant Dhruv Prabhakar (40 not out) sealed Karnatakas victory with an unbroken 88-run stand off 41 balls. Kishan had earlier clubbed 14 sixes in his whirlwind knock, helping Jharkhand amass 151 runs in the final 10 overs to post 412 for nine. Meanwhile, at the main Narendra Modi Stadium, Tamil Nadu opened their campaign with a 101-run victory over Pondicherry, with Pradosh Ranjan Paul (73) and captain N. Jagadeesan (67) laying the foundation for a total of 310/9. Bengal completed a successful chase of 383 against Vidarbha, with Abishek Porel (56 off 35 balls), captain Abhimanyu Easwaran (71), Sudip Gharami (68), and Shahbaz Ahmed (71 off 58 balls) guiding them to a stunning victory. Shubham Khajuria smashed an unbeaten 129 as Jammu and Kashmir thrashed Chandigarh by 10 wickets, with Nasir Lone taking four wickets and recent IPL auction pick Auqib Nabi claiming two. Himachal Pradesh defeated Uttarakhand by 95 runs as Akash Vasisht took three wickets, while Arzan Nagwaswalla's four-wicket haul powered Gujarat to an eight-wicket victory over Services. Saurashtra successfully chased down a 346-run target against Odisha with five wickets in hand, powered by Gajjar Sammar's unbeaten 132. Odisha's Swastik Samal had earlier smashed 212 with Biplab Samantaray contributing 100. Kerala thrashed Tripura by 145 runs after posting 348 for eight, with Baba Aparajith taking 5-15. Vignesh Puthur created List A cricket history by taking six catches as a fielder - the most ever in an innings, surpassing the previous record of five shared by 21 fielders. Punjab defeated Maharashtra by 51 runs, with Naman Dhir's 97, Anmolpreet Singh's 85, and Prabhsimran Singh's 60 laying the foundation for their big win before debutants Sukhdeep Bajwa and Krish Bhagat claimed two wickets each. Brief scores: Andhra 298/8 in 50 overs (Ricky Bhui 122; Simarjeet Singh 5-54, Prince Yadav 3-50) lost to Delhi 300/6 in 37.4 overs (Virat Kohli 131, Nitish Rana 77; Maramreddy Hemanth Reddy 2-6, Satyanarayana Raju 2-74) by four wickets Sikkim 236/7 in 50 overs (Ashish Thapa 79, Shardul Thakur 2/19) lost to Mumbai 237/2 in 30.3 overs (Rohit Sharma 155) by 8 wickets. Bihar 574/6 in 50 overs (Vaibhav Suryavanshi 190, Sakibul Gani 128 not out; Tadakamalla Mohith 2-99, Techi Neri 2-83) beat Arunachal Pradesh 177 in 42.1 overs (Kamsha Yangfo 32 not out, Techi Doria 28; Akash Raj 3-29, Suraj Kashyap 3-31) by 397 runs. Odisha 345/6 in 50 overs (Swastik Samal 212, Biplab Samantaray 100) lost to Saurashtra 347/5 in 48.5 overs (Gajjar Sammar 132 not out, Chirag Jani 86) by five wickets Services 184 in 42.2 overs (Arzan Nagwaswalla 4-34) lost to Gujarat 185/2 in 34.5 overs (Aarya Desai 77 not out) by eight wickets Haryana 267/9 in 50 overs (Himanshu Rana 126, Parth Vats 57) lost to Railways 270/4 in 43.4 overs (Ravi Singh 109 not out, Upendra Yadav 80) by six wickets Uttar Pradesh 324/5 in 50 overs (Abhishek Goswami 81, Dhruv Jurel 80) beat Hyderabad 240 all out in 43 overs (Tanmay Agarwal 53, Rahul Buddhi 47; Zeeshan Ansari 4-31) by 84 runs Jharkhand 412/9 in 50 overs (Ishan Kishan 125, Virat Singh 88; Abhilash Shetty 4/72) lost to Karnataka 413/5 in 47.3 overs (Devdutt Padikkal 147, Abhinav Manohar 56 not out) by five wickets Tamil Nadu 310/7 in 50 overs (Pradosh Ranjan Paul 73, N. Jagadeesan 67) beat Pondicherry 209 in 46.5 overs (Neyan Kangayan 60, Gurjapneet Singh 4/32) by 101 runs Punjab 347/6 in 50 overs (Naman Dhir 97, Anmolpreet Singh 85) beat Maharashtra 296/8 in 50 overs (Ramakrishna Ghosh 73, Prithvi Shaw 46) by 51 runs Tamil Nadu 310/7 in 50 overs (Pradosh Ranjan Paul 73, N. Jagadeesan 67) beat Pondicherry 209 in 46.5 overs (Neyan Kangayan 60, Gurjapneet Singh 4/32) by 101 runs Also Read: Live Cricket Score Chhattisgarh 233 in 48.5 overs (Amandeep Khare 76, Mayank Verma 64; Deepraj Gaonkar 4/35) lost to Goa 234/4 in 44.1 overs (Snehal Kauthankar 107 not out) by six wickets Article Source: IANS
Pakistan Super League Gets 12 Bids For Two New Teams, But High Base Price Worries Bidders: Report
The Pakistan Super League: The Pakistan Super League (PSL) has received as many as a dozen bids for buying the rights for two new teams in the 2026 edition, with offers coming from five continents, even though a news report claimed that most of them are skittish on the high base price sought by the board. The PCB has set USD 4 million as the base price for the new PSL teams, claiming the interest has been high after two successful roadshows in London and New York attracted a good number of investors. There were reports that PCB has not received any bids for the new teams because of the high base price it sought, but sources told Telecom Asia Sport (www.telecomasia.net) that they have received several bids. Around 12 bids were received, which is an exceptional and encouraging response to the tender issued for the sale of two new franchises of the Pakistan Super League (PSL), a source told www.telecomasia.net. The bidders belong to five continents, including the United States, Australia, Canada, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Pakistan, which clearly reflects the PSLs growing global popularity and commercial appeal, the report claimed. A prominent businessman from the USA, Aamir Wain, has registered a bid under a consortium and is interested in buying the Hyderabad team, a source was quoted as saying in the report. The next phase of the bidding process will be announced on December 27 after scrutiny of the bids, as some of the bidders are reluctant to the price, which may go over 5 million dollars under the current rate of the currency. The PCB will conduct an auction in Islamabad on January 8, 2026, to finalise the sale. According to the report, PCB conducted a valuation of the existing five teams, which showed Lahore Qalandars got the highest rise in value. Lahore will pay 2.37 million dollars for the next ten years, while Karachi Kings estimated value stands at 2.27 million dollars. Multan Sultans became the most expensive franchise in 2018, but after a fallout with the PCB, their new value is estimated at 3 million dollars. The PCB will conduct an auction in Islamabad on January 8, 2026, to finalise the sale. Also Read: Live Cricket Score A bidder from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) told www.telecomasia.net that if top-class players are attracted to the PSL 2026, then only the League will be successful and give the right kind of value to the franchises. Article Source: IANS
SA20 Season 4: Proteas Spinner Harmer Joins DSG As Temporary Replacement For Narine
Sunrisers Eastern Cape: Durban's Super Giants (DSG) have signed South Africa off-spinner Simon Harmer as a temporary replacement for West Indies off-spin bowling all-rounder Sunil Narine ahead of Season Fours commencement, said the tournament on Wednesday. Narine will arrive at Kingsmead for his maiden SA20 season after completing his commitments elsewhere, said a statement from the tournament. Harmer returns to Kingsmead after spending the past two seasons with Sunrisers Eastern Cape (SEC), where he was part of their season two championship-winning squad by picking eight wickets in 11 matches. Harmer, 36, joins DSG after being in exceptional form following a spectacular run with the Proteas Test side that saw him dismantle Pakistan and India batting line-ups. Harmer claimed 6-50 in the second Test against Pakistan in Rawalpindi in October, driving South Africa to their first Test victory there in 18 years while reaching the landmark of 1,000 first-class wickets. But his spin bowling masterclass came against India, where he took 17 wickets at an average of 8.94, as South Africa, the current World Test Championship winners, got a 2-0 Test series win. Harmer began by picking figures of 4-30 and 4-21 at Eden Gardens in Kolkata, as South Africa got their first Test victory on Indian soil after 2010. Harmer, 36, joins DSG after being in exceptional form following a spectacular run with the Proteas Test side that saw him dismantle Pakistan and India batting line-ups. Harmer claimed 6-50 in the second Test against Pakistan in Rawalpindi in October, driving South Africa to their first Test victory there in 18 years while reaching the landmark of 1,000 first-class wickets. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The Durban's Super Giants, which is owned by the RP-Sanjiv Goenka Group that also owns Indian Premier League team Lucknow Super Giants, is based in Durban and was formed in 2022. The team's home ground is the Kingsmead Cricket Ground. The team is coached by Lance Klusener. Article Source: IANS
DC School Cup: Modern School Barakhamba Road Claims Double By Winning Both Boys' And Girls' Titles
Modern School Barakhamba Road: Modern School Barakhamba Road were crowned champions of the DC School Cup 2025 in both boys and girls categories after the girls beat DPS RK Puram by 133 runs and the boys defeated St Thomas School by 57 runs to mark the successful completion of the tournament. In all, 16 schools participated in the boys category and four in the girls event across multiple weeks of cricketing action. Through this initiative, Delhi Capitals contributed meaningfully to Delhis cricketing ecosystem and inspired tomorrows champions. The DC School Cup Delhi Capitals flagship inter-school T20 tournament celebrated the citys sporting identity while discovering next-generation talent with BCCI-qualified officials, premium venues including the Arun Jaitley Stadium and GMR ground, with kits and professional match-day setups. In the girls final, Modern School Barakhamba Road beat DPS RK Puram by 133 runs to clinch the title. Batting first, opener Myra Rewal scored 83 off 53, and skipper Kashvi Kumar smashed 118 off 62 to take Modern to 240/2. Bowling with discipline, Avni Aggarwal took 1/12 as DPS managed 107/3 despite Vaibhavi Dudejas 75* off 63. In the boys final, Modern School Barakhamba Road beat St. Thomas School by 57 runs. Batting first, Tanmay Chaudhary starred with 118 off 65, and skipper Varun Sharma added 76 off 41 in a total of 215/5. Modern School then restricted St Thomas to 158/8 with Grihith Gumbers 3-43 and Tanmays 1-15, making Modern double champions. On the successful completion of the DC School Cup 2025, Sunil Gupta, CEO of Delhi Capitals, said, Heartiest congratulations to Modern School Barakhamba Road for their remarkable double triumph in both boys and girls categories of the DC School Cup 2025. Seeing hundreds of young Delhi cricketers showcase their talent coming from various schools has been truly inspiring, breathing new life into school cricket in the city. The sight of these budding cricketers playing their finals at the iconic Arun Jaitley Stadium smiles beaming ear to ear made every effort worthwhile. We look forward to even greater participation next year, particularly from more girls teams, as we continue to try and contribute to building Delhis cricketing future, he said. DC School Cup 2025: Best Performers Boys Player of the Match (Final): Tanmay Chaudhary - 118 off 65 balls Player of the Tournament: Tanmay Chaudhary - 583 runs Best Batter: Tanmay Chaudhary - 583 runs Best Bowler: Avyam Jain - 12 wickets Girls Player of the Match (Final): Kashvi Kumar - 118 off 62 balls Player of the Tournament: Kashvi Kumar - 147 runs Player of the Match (Final): Kashvi Kumar - 118 off 62 balls Also Read: Live Cricket Score Best Bowler: Avni Aggarwal - 5 wickets Article Source: IANS
LSGs Lower-order Batting Remains A Concern As It Hasn't Been Fully Addressed, Says Chopra
Lucknow Super Giants: Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have strengthened their bowling attack in the mini-auction ahead of the 2026 season, but continue to grapple with batting depth issues, particularly in the lower middle-order, said former India opener Aakash Chopra. LSG has kept Rishabh Pant at number three, but the batting order remains a question mark. Pant can play higher, and last season's top order was exceptionalthree of the top four batsmen scored over 500 runs, which is very rare. The real issue has been the lower order; at five, six, and seven, players like David Miller couldn't consistently deliver in last season, said Chopra on JioStar. This season, LSG have more options in bowling with (Wanindu) Hasaranga, Mohammed Shami, Avesh Khan, Mayank Yadav, along with Akash Singh, Prince Yadav, and Arjun Tendulkar. Despite these improvements, the lower-order batting remains a concern that hasn't been fully addressed, he added. Ex-India all-rounder Irfan Pathan praised LSGs bowling reinforcements but echoed concerns about batting depth. Looking at Anrich Nortje and Hasaranga, LSG has very strong options, especially in the fast-bowling department, which was much needed. If the fast bowlers stay fit, they form a formidable unit. Hasaranga is a big benefit - last year, there was a lack of trust from captain Rishabh Pant in Ravi Bishnoi. Hasaranga, bought for 2 crore, is a solid and cost-effective addition. However, with batsmen like Ayush Badoni and Abdul Samad, LSG could have done with one more top-class batter. I was hoping for someone like Livingstone. Overall, theres still a need for at least five more high-quality batsmen in the squad, he said. Hasaranga is a big benefit - last year, there was a lack of trust from captain Rishabh Pant in Ravi Bishnoi. Hasaranga, bought for 2 crore, is a solid and cost-effective addition. Also Read: Live Cricket Score If you look at the batting order for LSG, they're very similar to SRH. Buying Josh, even if he was available for the full season at that price, doesn't make sense because he's not going to be in the starting line-up, concluded former India opener Abhinav Mukund. Article Source: IANS
Ktaka Home Minister Defends Permission Denial For Vijay Hazare Trophy Match At Chinnaswamy Stadium
Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemanth Kumar: Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara has defended the governments decision not to allow the Vijay Hazare Trophy cricket match to be held at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru on Wednesday, Parameshwara said that the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) president and former Indian pacer Venkatesh Prasad had met both him and the Chief Minister. The Justice Michael DCunha Commission has made a set of recommendations. The report was submitted to the KSCA, and they are required to respond to those recommendations, he said. However, the KSCA appears to have taken no action in this regard. When Venkatesh Prasad held a meeting, the matter was discussed. Subsequently, a high-level committee was formed. When the committee members visited the stadium, they found that not a single recommendation had been implemented. In this context, the committee decided not to grant permission to host cricket matches, Parameshwara stated. He further said that a total of 17 recommendations had been made to the KSCA, and permission would be granted to host matches once action is taken on these recommendations. The Karnataka Police have denied permission for the Vijay Hazare Trophy match between Delhi and Andhra Pradesh at Chinnaswamy Stadium, citing serious safety and crowd control concerns. The decision was taken after a thorough inspection by Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemanth Kumar Singh, officials from the Greater Bengaluru Authority, and the Fire Department, who raised critical gaps in venue infrastructure and emergency preparedness. Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemanth Kumar Singh stated, The committee had gone to the stadium on Monday, on the instructions of the Home Department. Officers from various departments, including fire, Bengaluru Electricity Supply Company (Bescom), Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) and police, had inspected the stadium. As per the report from the officers, permission has not been granted for the match on Wednesday at the Chinnaswamy Stadium. The committee has also given a detailed report. The decision was taken after a thorough inspection by Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemanth Kumar Singh, officials from the Greater Bengaluru Authority, and the Fire Department, who raised critical gaps in venue infrastructure and emergency preparedness. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Notably, 11 people were killed in a stampede near the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru during the Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) victory celebrations on June 4. Article Source: IANS
Vijay Hazare Trophy: Karnataka Script History With Record-breaking 413-run Chase In Ahmedabad
Vijay Hazare Trophy: Karnataka accomplished the second-highest run chase in the history of List-A cricket after chasing down an almost impossible target of 413 runs with fifteen balls remaining against Jharkhand in the Vijay Hazare Trophy at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Wednesday. This chase now stands as the second-highest successful chase in List-A history, trailing just behind South Africa's record-setting chase of 435 runs against Australia at Johannesburg in 2006. Karnataka's historic chase was led by Devdutt Padikkal, who scored a majestic hundred. The left-handed batter scored 147 runs off 118 balls with 10 fours and seven sixes. He controlled the innings and struck the ball exceptionally cleanly, even with the required run rate throughout the majority of the innings hovering above 8 runs per over. Earlier, Jharkhand captain Ishan Kishan scored a century in just 33 balls--the second fastest in Indian List-A history, propelling his team past 400 runs and making it appear that the run chase could not be done in the List-A format. Karnataka's batting order responded to the challenge of the chase with as much intent and aggression as the bowling side did. It was Mayank Agarwal (54) who provided early momentum to the innings with a fluent half-century. In contrast, Abhinav Manohar (56), who is known for his powerful batting style, also contributed a quick strike rate through the middle of the innings with a further quick half-century. Thanks to these two players, Karnataka was able to keep the run rate within reasonable limits for the innings. Dhruv Prabhakar finished the innings off with an impressive performance on his List-A debut with an unbeaten 40, showing great maturity and poise for someone so young. Thanks to these two players, Karnataka was able to keep the run rate within reasonable limits for the innings. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With this successful chase, Karnataka has entered the List-A record books, with only South Africa's 435 against Australia currently ranked higher. Karnataka's successful chase is now listed ahead of several well-known teams, including Queensland, Karachi, and Middlesex. Article Source: IANS
T20 World Cup: After a roller coaster 2025, the Indian mens cricket team faces a jam-packed 2026, headlined by a home T20 World Cup defence, lots of ODI matches, and some tough World Test Championship (WTC) assignments in overseas conditions. It was a memorable 2025 for India, as they won the Champions Trophy in Dubai, especially with their four-pronged spin strategy bearing fruit. In terms of T20Is, the sides upswing continued with wins in bilateral series at home and abroad, including the Asia Cup, although they have yet to hold the trophy in their hands. But in terms of the Test team, results were mixed: a defeat to Australia in Sydney meant India lost the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series 3-1 and bid goodbye to their hopes of entering the World Test Championship final. Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Cheteshwar Pujara retired from the format to mark the start of a big transition in the Test team. Shubman Gill became the new Test skipper and later took over as ODI captain. After a hard-fought 2-2 draw in England, India got an easy 2-0 series win over the West Indies at home. However, the ghosts of the 3-0 series loss in New Zealand came back to haunt them when South Africa condemned them to a 2-0 defeat. India's batting order in Tests remains in flux, with persistent experimentation raising questions about role clarity and long-term planning. But come 2026, the shortest format will be in focus big time, while ODIs take over the attention once the T20 World Cup is over. India's busy 2026 opens with New Zealand visiting for three ODIs and five T20Is, with the latter in huge focus due to the T20 World Cup happening on home soil and in Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8. India, led by Suryakumar Yadav, will enter the tournament as defending champions. As per current form and squad personnel, India are primed to retain the title they claimed in Barbados in June 2024 and try to make history as the first hosting side to win a Mens T20 World Cup. If that happens, India will also become the only team to have three titles in the T20 World Cup. The post-T20 World Cup schedule, once the IPL 2026 jamboree is over, resumes in June with Afghanistan arriving in India for one Test (not under WTC cycle) and three ODIs. India will then quickly leave for a white-ball tour to England in July, featuring three ODIs and five T20Is. India's World Test Championship assignments for 2026 begin in August with a two-Test series in Sri Lanka, a trip which will be a big examination for the side, who are yet to come to grips with how to play against spinners on spin-friendly pitches. A brief three-match T20I stopover against Afghanistan in the UAE is on the cards in September. The likelihood of it happening is larger than the postponed tour to Bangladesh, which looks shaky to take place due to the recent tensions in the country. India will also travel for the Asian Games T20 event in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, from September 19 to October 4, where a second-string squad is expected to participate. India's World Test Championship assignments for 2026 begin in August with a two-Test series in Sri Lanka, a trip which will be a big examination for the side, who are yet to come to grips with how to play against spinners on spin-friendly pitches. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India will wrap up the year by hosting Sri Lanka for three ODIs and three T20Is in December, as they continue to fine-tune their preparation for the 2027 Mens ODI World Cup. India's players and various stakeholders will have to be at their best in terms of workload management across all three formats while pursuing a silverware quest and constant victories in various bilateral series. Article Source: IANS
Vijay Hazare Trophy Plate: Bihar Cricket Association (BCA) president congratulated the Bihar team for their historic performance, calling the match a moment of immense pride for state cricket. He lauded the entire squad for their fearless approach and discipline and extended special appreciation to the three centurions, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Sakibul Gani and Ayush Loharuka, for their outstanding batting displays. Bihar produced a batting performance for the ages, shattering the mens List A record for the highest team total by piling up a staggering 574 for 6 in 50 overs against Arunachal Pradesh in a Vijay Hazare Trophy Plate match. The innings rewrote history, eclipsing the previous record of 506/2 by Tamil Nadu against the same opponents in 2022 and Englands 498/4 scored earlier that year. Bihar's innings was highlighted by three magnificent centuries, an astonishing 49 fours and 38 sixes, and a run rate of 11.48 throughout the 50 overs. The BCA president noted that such performances reflect the consistent hard work of the players, coaches and support staff. Heartiest congratulations to the Bihar team for producing a truly historic performance. Today's match is a moment of immense pride for Bihar cricket, said BCA president Harsh Vardhan in a statement. I congratulate the entire squad for their fearless approach and discipline, and extend special appreciation to our three centurions, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Sakibul Gani and Ayush Loharuka, for their outstanding batting displays. Such performances reflect the hard work being put in by our players, coaches and support staff, he added. The standout performer was teenage sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who, at just 14 years and 272 days, became the youngest player to score a hundred in mens List A cricket. He went far beyond that landmark, racing to the fastest 150 in mens List A history off just 59 balls, before being dismissed for a breathtaking 190 off 84 deliveries, laced with 16 fours and 15 sixes. The BCA president made a special mention of Suryavanshi for smashing multiple records and becoming the youngest player to score a century in mens List A cricket, calling the innings exceptional. He said records are meant to be broken and expressed confidence that this achievement is only the beginning, with many more milestones to come. A special mention must go to young Vaibhav Suryavanshi for smashing multiple records and becoming the youngest player to score a century in mens List A cricket, said Harsh Vardhan. The BCA president made a special mention of Suryavanshi for smashing multiple records and becoming the youngest player to score a century in mens List A cricket, calling the innings exceptional. He said records are meant to be broken and expressed confidence that this achievement is only the beginning, with many more milestones to come. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Vaibhav found excellent support in the middle order. Captain Sakibul Gani played a blistering unbeaten 128 off just 40 balls, smashing 10 fours and 12 sixes, and finishing the innings with brutal efficiency. Wicketkeeper-batter Ayush Loharuka scored a commanding 116 off 56 balls, striking 11 fours and 8 sixes, as Arunachal Pradeshs bowlers struggled to contain the onslaught. Article Source: IANS
Rohit, Kohli Smash Centuries On Vijay Hazare Trophy Return
Vijay Hazare Trophy: While the first half of the opening day of the Vijay Hazare Trophy was all about record-breaking centuries, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli stole the limelight in the second half with their respective hundreds on their return to the premier one-day domestic tournament. Rohit scored a century for Mumbai off just 62 balls against Sikkim, and Kohli followed soon, hitting an 83-ball ton against Andhra Pradesh, as both players dominated their opponents. Rohit made a sensational comeback to domestic cricket, scoring a century in what was his first Vijay Hazare Trophy match in seven years for Mumbai on Wednesday. Chasing Sikkims 236 runs in Jaipur, Rohit began confidently, hitting a series of sixes and fours that made the target seem easy to reach. Approaching 14,000 runs in the 50-over format, this century marked the former India skipper's 37th in List A cricket, adding to his tally of 33 international centuries for India. Following Rohits impressive 155 for Mumbai, Kohli marked his return to the Vijay Hazare Trophy after 15 years with a typical century during a 299-run chase against Andhra at the BCCIs Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. Kohli confidently led the chase, showcasing his usual flair, and scored a dazzling hundred. This marked his 58th List A century and his third century in four innings since the South Africa series earlier this month. With his first run of the innings, Kohli joined an elite club as the ninth player ever to reach 16,000 List A runs, with more than 14,000 coming while playing for India since his debut in 2008. During the game, Kohli also etched his name in cricketing folklore by completing 16000 List A runs. With his first run of the innings, Kohli joined an elite club as the ninth player ever to reach 16,000 List A runs, with more than 14,000 coming while playing for India since his debut in 2008. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The 37-year-old now stands as the ninth player overall to breach this milestone, joining the ranks of cricketing legends like Tendulkar, Ricky Ponting, Kumar Sangakkara, Sir Vivian Richards, and others. Article Source: IANS
Pant, Bumrah Apologised After Saying Something In Their Language About Me, Says Bavuma
World Test Championship: South Africa captain Temba Bavuma has revealed that India duo of Rishabh Pant and Jasprit Bumrah apologised to him after making remarks in their own language during the first Test at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. Bavuma, who captained South Africa to 2-0 Test series win over India, noted that while such words are not easily forgotten, he harbours no ill will. A stump mic incident during day ones play caught Bumrah and Pant referring to Bavuma as bauna while appealing for an lbw off him in the 14th over. The term is generally used for people suffering from dwarfism, but can be deemed offensive when directed at individuals of short stature. A series against India is always going to be intense, and when it's heated, it makes it even more of a spectacle and motivates the players further. As long as the respect is still intact between players, it's all good with whatever happens on the field. I know from my side there was an incident where they said something in their language about me. At the end of the day two senior players, Rishabh Pant and Jasprit Bumrah, came and apologised. When the apology was made, I was in the dark about what it was about, I hadn't heard it at the time and I needed to check in with our media manager about it. What happens on the field, stays on the field but you don't forget what is said. You use it as fuel and motivation, but there are no grudges per se, Bavuma was quoted as saying by ESPNCricinfo on Wednesday. He also acknowledged that head coach Shukri Conrad could have used a better word instead of grovel during the second Test in Guwahati. Shukri also took some heat for his grovel remark. I was put under pressure by the media on that side, asking me to clarify the comments that were made. I thought Shukri was the man best positioned to give context to it all. The first time I heard about it, it had that unsavoury taste to it, but I think it just reminded me how tough and competitive the Test series was and what it meant to certain individuals within the group. Shukri spoke after the ODI series and put that issue to bed. In hindsight, he said he could have chosen a better word and I agree with him, added Bavuma. Before Bavuma & Co, South Africa last won a Test series in India under Hansie Cronjes leadership in 2000. Bavuma explained how he and Conrad made plans for months to ensure South Africa, the current World Test Championship holders, emerged victorious on their Test trip to India after previous failures in 2015 and 2019. In terms of coach Shukri getting the best out of us as players, that groundwork has been in play since we started. Shuks instils confidence in the players and makes them believe that they are the best. The premise is that if we play at our best, no one can stand near us. Before Bavuma & Co, South Africa last won a Test series in India under Hansie Cronjes leadership in 2000. Bavuma explained how he and Conrad made plans for months to ensure South Africa, the current World Test Championship holders, emerged victorious on their Test trip to India after previous failures in 2015 and 2019. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The seed was planted long before the Test series. The fact that we did it two and a half decades later speaks to the magnitude of our performance and overall achievement. It's another feather in our cap as a side, and we're growing very well as a Test team, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
England search for Christmas miracle, Australia eye next step to 5-0
The visitors have confirmed two changes while Australia will make at least three in a series where their adaptability has stood out
Virat Kohli Completes 16,000 List A Runs On Vijay Hazare Trophy Return
NKP Salve Challenger Trophy: Virat Kohli has once again etched his name in cricketing history, reaching the remarkable milestone of 16,000 List A runs during his return to the Vijay Hazare Trophy on Wednesday. Playing for Delhi in their clash against Andhra Pradesh here at the BCCIs Centre of Excellence, Kohli achieved the feat with his first run in the teams chase of 299. This landmark moment further cements his status as one of the greatest ever in the 50-over format. Kohlis 16,000-run feat makes him only the second Indian player, after legendary batter Sachin Tendulkar, to reach this figure in List A cricket. The 37-year-old now stands as the ninth player overall to breach this milestone, joining the ranks of cricketing legends like Tendulkar, Ricky Ponting, Kumar Sangakkara, Sir Vivian Richards, and others. Kohlis last appearance in the Vijay Hazare Trophy came during the 2010-11 season, where he captained Delhi. He would go on to play in the NKP Salve Challenger Trophy in 2013-14 but had not participated in the Vijay Hazare for nearly a decade before this comeback. His return to the competition was eagerly anticipated, and his achievement was a fitting start to Delhis campaign. While the milestone of 16,000 List A runs stands as a testament to Kohli's excellence, his ODI record continues to shine even brighter. He remains the second-highest run-scorer in ODI history, behind only Sachin Tendulkar. With 14,557 runs in 308 matches at an extraordinary average of 58.46, Kohli is the fastest player to 14,000 runs in ODI cricket. He also boasts the most centuries in the format, with 53 to his name. While the milestone of 16,000 List A runs stands as a testament to Kohli's excellence, his ODI record continues to shine even brighter. He remains the second-highest run-scorer in ODI history, behind only Sachin Tendulkar. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Having made his List A debut back in 2006 for Delhi in the Ranji One-Day Tournament, Kohlis career has been nothing short of spectacular. Over the years, he has represented Delhi in various domestic competitions, with standout performances in the 50-over format. Article Source: IANS
Former India Physio Patrick Farhart Joins LSG As Global Head Of Science And Medicine
RPSG Sports Private Limited: Former India men's team physio Patrick Farhart has joined Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) as Global Head of Science and Medicine, a franchise official told IANS on Wednesday. Besides LSG, Farhart will also join its sister franchises, the Durban Super Giants in SA20 and the Manchester Originals of The Hundred. Patrick Farhart will join LSG and its sister franchises as their Global Head of Science and Medicine from today. His work will start from the upcoming SA20 season for the Durban franchise, an LSG official told IANS on Wednesday. Farhat has been in the field for more than 20 years now and has also served the Sydney Sixers in the Big Bash, the Kings XI Punjab and the Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League, as the team's physio over the years. He has also served as Performance Director for New South Wales, Hampshire, and Australia, and has worked with major rugby and football teams in Australia. Im happy to share that Im starting a new position as Global Head of Medicine and Science at RPSG Sports Private Limited! wrote Farhart on his LinkedIn account. The purpose of this role is to establish and maintain world class standards in athlete performance, health, injury prevention, injury rehabilitation, continuing professional development and scientific innovation for sports medicine and sports science staff attached to RPSG Sport teams, including Lucknow Super Giants (IPL), Manchester Originals (The Hundred), Durban Super Giants (SA20) and Mohun Bagan SG (ISL), added Farhart. Im happy to share that Im starting a new position as Global Head of Medicine and Science at RPSG Sports Private Limited! wrote Farhart on his LinkedIn account. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The Australian served as the Indian team's physiotherapist from 2015 until the 2019 ICC World Cup. Article Source: IANS
Head, Conway Gain Big In Latest Rankings After Recent Red-ball Heroics
T20I Player Rankings: Performers in Test victories for Australia and New Zealand experienced significant gains following the most recent update in the ICC Mens Player Rankings. Players from both teams experienced a double celebration as Australia advanced to an unassailable 3-0 series lead against England in a home Ashes series, and the Black Caps secured a 2-0 series victory over the West Indies in Mount Maunganui. These performances have brought some Australian players close to the top positions in the Mens Test batting and bowling rankings. In Adelaide, Australia, Travis Head led the charge to an 82-run victory, with his second-innings score of 170 off 219 balls helping secure the win. This performance also moved Head up four places to joint third (815) in the rankings, alongside teammate Steve Smith. Alex Careys century in the first innings propelled him six spots up the rankings, advancing to ninth place with his highest rating of 737. Across the Tasman, New Zealands strong batting performance secured their win against the West Indies, resulting in a 2-0 series victory. Rachin Ravindras unblemished scores of 72 and 46 led to a five-place rise to 13th, while Devon Conways impressive scores of 227 and 100 boosted him to a career-high ranking of 681, tying him for 17th. Kavem Hodges aggressive innings of 123 not out resulted in an 11-place jump to 66th, marking his highest career ranking and rating. On the bowling front, two Australians are now best positioned to challenge Jasprit Bumrah as the top Test bowler. Mitchell Starc (third) and Pat Cummins (up four spots to second with a rating of 849) took a total of ten wickets in Adelaide, with Cummins just 30 rating points behind the Indian pacer. Starc also rose to third place on the Test all-rounders list after playing a key half-century in the victory, tying with Ashes rival Ben Stokes with a rating of 311. There were also improvements in the Mens T20I Player Rankings following the recently completed five-match T20I series between India and South Africa, which the Team in Blue won 3-1. The final match was an offensive showcase in Ahmedabad, as the hosts scored 231 runs in the first innings. India's leading scorer, Tilak Varma, scored 73 off 42 balls, surpassing Sri Lankas Pathum Nissanka to secure third place with 805 rating points. Meanwhile, Dewald Brevis rapid 31-run innings helped him rise into the top 10. The final match was an offensive showcase in Ahmedabad, as the hosts scored 231 runs in the first innings. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Varun Chakaravarthys four-wicket performance cements his leading position in the rankings, with a rating of 804, comfortably ahead of Jacob Duffy with 699 in second place. Article Source: IANS
Vijay Hazare Trophy: Ishan Kishan slams second-fastest List A century by an Indian
Just before Kishan's 33-ball feat, Bihar's Sakibul Gani scored the fastest List A ton by an Indian off just 32 balls
Bihar Captain Sakibul Gani Becomes Fastest Indian Batter To Score List A Century
Vijay Hazare Trophy: Bihar captain Sakibul Gani became the fastest Indian to score a List A century in just 32 balls in the Plate Group opener against Arunachal Pradesh in the Vijay Hazare Trophy at JSCA Oval Ground on Wednesday. Gani finished not out with 128 off 40 balls, just ahead of Jharkhand wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan, who on the same day scored a 33-ball century against Karnataka in the same tournament. Gani's record-breaking century included 10 fours and 12 sixes. The top two fastest List A centuries by Indians have all been recorded on the same day at two different venues, Ahmedabad and Ranchi, on the opening day of the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-25. The world record for the fastest century in List A cricket belongs to Australian batter Jake Fraser-McGurk. The former Delhi Capitals player reached the 100-run mark in just 29 balls for South Australia against Tasmania in Adelaide on October 8, 2023. Teen prodigy Suryavanshi led the charge of Bihar's batting with an impressive 190 off 84 deliveries, whereas Ayush Loharuka scored a 56-ball 116, as captain Gani contributed another hundred to round out the assault. Suryavanshis performance made him the youngest centurion in List A cricket. After electing to bat first, Bihar went on to post the highest List A total of 574 for six, surpassing the previous record of 506 for 2 set by Tamil Nadu against Arunachal Pradesh in the same competition in 2022. The Bihar innings included 49 fours and 38 sixes. Fastest centuries by Indians in List A cricket Sakibul Gani 32 balls, Bihar vs Arunachal Pradesh, December 24, 2025 Ishan Kishan 33 balls, Jharkhand vs Karnataka, December 24, 2025 Anmolpreet Singh 35 balls, Punjab vs Arunachal Pradesh, December 21, 2024 Ishan Kishan 33 balls, Jharkhand vs Karnataka, December 24, 2025 Also Read: Live Cricket Score Yusuf Pathan 40 balls, Baroda vs Maharashtra, February 16, 2010 Article Source: IANS
Bihar Script History With Highest List A Team Total In Vijay Hazare Trophy
Vijay Hazare Trophy: Bihar are on a roll in its Vijay Hazare Trophy, having registered the highest team total in List A cricket during the Plate League opener against Arunachal Pradesh on Wednesday. Batting first, Bihar posted a staggering 574 for the loss of six wickets, surpassing the previous List A record of 506/2 set by Tamil Nadu against Arunachal Pradesh in the 2022 Vijay Hazare Trophy. Teenager Vaibhav Suryavanshis blistering 190, coupled with a captains knock of 128 not out from Sakibul Gani and a fluent 116 from Ayush Loharuka, powered the team to a record-breaking total in a dominant batting display. Suryavanshi smashed a century off 36 balls to become the youngest centurion in List A cricket. His century was the second-fastest by an Indian man overall in List A cricket, after Punjab batter Anmolpreet Singh's 35-ball century against Arunachal in the Vijay Hazare competition last season. Overall, Suryavanshi's 36-ball ton ranks joint-fourth-fastest ever in the world in List A cricket. The teenage batter racked up his 150 off only 54 deliveries before being dismissed for 190 off 84. Suryavanshi laid the foundation for Bihars imposing total with a dominant batting display, first adding 198 runs for the opening wicket alongside Mangal Mahrour (33). He then kept the momentum going by stitching together another century stand, putting on 103 runs for the second wicket with Piyush Kumar Singh, before being dismissed for a magnificent 190. Overall, Suryavanshi's 36-ball ton ranks joint-fourth-fastest ever in the world in List A cricket. The teenage batter racked up his 150 off only 54 deliveries before being dismissed for 190 off 84. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Skipper Gani, who joined Ayush to establish a 94-run partnership, hit the third-fastest century in List A cricket with his 32-ball hundred. His century is the fastest by an Indian in List A. He remained unbeaten on 128 off 40 balls, which comprised 10 fours and 12 sixes. Article Source: IANS
Ishan Kishan Becomes Second-fastest Indian To Smash Century In List A History
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: Jharkhand wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan produced a breathtaking display of power-hitting, smashing a 33-ball century against Karnataka in a Vijay Hazare Trophy fixture in Ahmedabad on Wednesday. The innings ranks as the second-fastest hundred by an Indian in List A cricket, falling just one ball short of the national record set earlier the same day by Bihar skipper Sakibul Gani, who reached the milestone in 32 deliveries against Arunachal Pradesh. Kishans latest feat adds to an extraordinary run of form for the left-hander. Only days ago, he was a surprise inclusion in Indias squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup, shortly after captaining Jharkhand to their first-ever Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy triumph. During the SMAT campaign, Kishan topped the charts with 517 runs and played a decisive role in the final against Haryana, where he struck a blistering century. His hundred came off just 45 balls, making him only the second player to score a ton in a Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy final and registering as the third-fastest century in a mens T20 final. With five centuries in the tournament, he now shares the record for most hundreds in SMAT history with Abhishek Sharma. Kishans explosive credentials are well established at the international level, too. He holds the record for the fastest double century in One-Day Internationals, reaching the landmark in just 126 balls against Bangladesh in 2022. The Vijay Hazare Trophy witnessed several breathtaking performances on Wednesday. It all started with youngster Vaibhav Sooryavanshi grabbing headlines with his 36-ball century for Bihar, which he later converted into an 84-ball 190 before his knock came to an end. What followed next in the same innings was Ganis record-breaking ton and Ayush Loharukas 56-ball 116 as Bihar finished with a massive 574 runs on the scoreboard against Arunachal Pradesh. Kishans explosive credentials are well established at the international level, too. He holds the record for the fastest double century in One-Day Internationals, reaching the landmark in just 126 balls against Bangladesh in 2022. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Courtesy of Kishans recent performances in the domestic arena, he has earned a recall to the international setup, having been named in Indias T20I squad for the five-game series against New Zealand and the T20 World Cup in February 2026. Article Source: IANS
Archer Ruled Out Of Ashes, Atkinson Returns As England Name XI For MCG Test
Melbourne Cricket Ground: England announced their playing XI for the fourth Ashes Test against Australia, making two changes from the Adelaide game, as Jofra Archer has been ruled out for the remainder of the series with side strain and Ollie Pope missed out on the upcoming game. Left-handed batting all-rounder Jacob Bethell comes into the side and is listed at No.3, while fast bowler Atkinson returned after missing the last outing. The fourth Ashes test is set to begin on Boxing Day, December 26, at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). England have made two changes to the XI that played in the third Test in Adelaide. Fast bowler Jofra Archer has been ruled out for the remainder of the tour with a left side strain, and Surrey batter Ollie Pope misses out. Warwickshires Jacob Bethell comes into the side and will bat at number three. Surrey seamer Gus Atkinson returns after missing the third Test, the ECB said in a statement. England have already lost the series, with the hosts winning the first three matches and taking an unassailable 3-0 lead. While the Ben Stokes-led side lost their campaign opener by eight wickets in Perth, on just the second day of the Test, they went on to lose the second Test at the Gabba by the exact same margin as the Aussies inched closer to retaining the urn. Warwickshires Jacob Bethell comes into the side and will bat at number three. Surrey seamer Gus Atkinson returns after missing the third Test, the ECB said in a statement. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Englands XI for the MCG Test: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Jacob Bethell, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (c), Jamie Smith (wk), Will Jacks, Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse, Josh Tongue. Article Source: IANS
Archer out of Ashes tour, Bethell replaces Pope for Boxing Day Test
Ben Duckett has been retained despite a poor run and an ECB investigation into his conduct
Vaibhav Suyavanshi Hits 36-ball Ton For Bihar In Vijay Hazare Trophy Opener
Vijay Hazare Trophy Plate: India's 14-year-old batting sensation, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, made headlines again after smashing a 36-ball century in the Vijay Hazare Trophy Plate league opener for Bihar against Arunachal Pradesh at the JSCA Oval Ground on Wednesday. Suryavanshi's century off 36 balls was the second-fastest hundred by an Indian man in overall List A cricket, after Punjab batter Anmolpreet Singh's 35-ball century against Arunachal in the Vijay Hazare competition last season. Overall, Suryavanshi's 36-ball ton ranks as the joint-fourth-fastest ever in the world in List A cricket. The teenage batter racked up his 150 off only 54 deliveries before being dismissed for 190 off 84, as Bihar are currently 379/2 in 39 overs. Earlier this month, Suryavanshi smashed an unbeaten century for Bihar against Maharashtra in an Elite Group B Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025 match at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. He scored an unbeaten 108 off 61 balls, his maiden ton in the T20 domestic cricket tournament and third overall in the format. His century also made him the youngest batter to score a century in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, at 14 years and 250 days. The 14-year-old cricketer also smashed the record for the highest score by an Indian in U19 Asia Cup history with his 171 off just 95 against the UAE. The explosive southpaw also slammed a ton against the Australia U19 team in Brisbane during a Youth Test match in November. His most recent jaw-dropping innings came in the Rising Stars Asia Cup, where he scored 144 off 42 balls for India A against UAE, smashing 11 fours and 15 sixes. The 14-year-old cricketer also smashed the record for the highest score by an Indian in U19 Asia Cup history with his 171 off just 95 against the UAE. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Last month, Instagram chose to spotlight Vaibhav Sooryavanshis journey on its official page - making him only the second Indian cricketer after Virat Kohli to receive the honour. Article Source: IANS
VHT: Suryavanshi slams 36-ball ton for Bihar, becomes the youngest List A centurion
Playing against Arunachal Pradesh in a Plate League fixture in Ranchi, Suryavanshi scored his first non-T20I ton in senior cricket
Kirstie Gordon Returns To International Cricket With Scotland, Ends Time With England
T20 World Cup: Kirstie Gordon, the captain of Nottinghamshire's Blaze team in English domestic women's cricket, has decided to return to international cricket with Scotland, over six years after her last appearance for England The 28-year-old left-arm spinner, who was born in Huntly, began her international career with Scotland at just 14 years old. However, in 2018, she chose to focus on a full-time cricket career within the English domestic system. During her time with England, Gordon earned selection for the 2018 T20 World Cup and played in a one-off Test against Australia in 2019. It's always been in the back of my mind in the last couple of years to return to Scotland, and it has helped having Craig Wallace (Scotland head coach) in my ear! He's been on the phone a few times and I feel like I've really connected with him and his vision for the team. If you couple that with the chance to play again with two of my best mates in Kathryn (Bryce) and Sarah (Bryce), it feels like it's the right moment to come home, Gordon said in a Cricket Scotland statement. I made my Scotland debut very young, and I was fortunate to go to the first global qualifiers in Thailand in 2015, so I had some awesome experiences with Scotland at that time, but I was really keen to try and take my cricketing career as far as I could. Going to Loughborough for university, the opportunities and avenues to play at a higher level really opened up from there. I eventually decided to stop my Scotland career and become a local player in order to play for Loughborough Lightning. I guess I did that while not really knowing what the prospects were, but I then was selected for England at the World Cup in the West Indies. It was probably always on my radar that I wanted to play at the highest level, so I absolutely loved it, and I'm really grateful for those opportunities, she added. Between 2012 and 2017, Gordon represented Scotland in 60 international matches before switching to England. Now, after recovering from a back injury, she plans to be ready for the start of the 2026 domestic season and will be available for future Scotland selections. It's exciting to hear Kirstie is now available for selection for Scotland and we are delighted to welcome her back home. She's obviously a top-class player and an excellent person and having got to know her I'm looking forward to the opportunity to work with her. I think the most pleasing thing about her decision is that it shows the strength of our squad, that somebody of Kirstie's ability is wanting to come and challenge to compete for a place in the team. We have created a strong group and culture on and off the pitch, and it's fantastic that she wants to join it and be part of the journey, head coach Craig Wallace said. Scotland are gearing up for the T20 World Cup qualifiers, which will take place in Nepal in January 2026. It's exciting to hear Kirstie is now available for selection for Scotland and we are delighted to welcome her back home. She's obviously a top-class player and an excellent person and having got to know her I'm looking forward to the opportunity to work with her. I think the most pleasing thing about her decision is that it shows the strength of our squad, that somebody of Kirstie's ability is wanting to come and challenge to compete for a place in the team. We have created a strong group and culture on and off the pitch, and it's fantastic that she wants to join it and be part of the journey, head coach Craig Wallace said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I'm hoping like everyone else is that the team will be successful in Nepal and qualify for the World Cup in the summer, but this decision is not about the short term - hopefully for a number of years, I can be a part of Cricket Scotland as a player as well as supporting the younger players coming through. Whatever that looks like, I'm eager to get involved, Gordon said. Article Source: IANS
'Quite Hard To Get A Gauge On Him Yet, Ponting Assesses Green's International Career
The ICC Review: Former captain Ricky Ponting has offered his assessment of Cameron Green's young international career, calling the all-rounder one of Australias most intriguing long-term prospects, even as his Test returns continue to invite scrutiny. Green has had a below-par Ashes series, with Australia already having secured the series after the first three Tests. In three matches, he scored 76 runs and took only two wickets, though he had limited game time with the ball. Ponting acknowledged that, despite Greens growing experience, his overall impact in Test cricket remains difficult to quantify. Its actually quite hard to get a gauge on him yet as an international player. He averages under 30 in Australia now. His career averages just over 30, Ponting said on The ICC Review. Hes made two Test match hundreds in 30-odd Test matches. Hes had back surgery, and his bowling pace is probably not quite what it was 12 months ago, he said. Green has played 35 Tests since his debut against India in Adelaide five years ago, with the right-handed batter chipping in with 1641 runs at an average close to 33, while also grabbing 37 wickets. But there is a very complete package there if it all comes together. And weve seen him play some pretty remarkable innings. He made an incredible 100 in New Zealand last year. Hes got 100 in India as well, albeit on a very, very flat pitch, Ponting added. Green made his maiden Test century in Ahmedabad, scoring 114 after coming in in a tricky situation against India, while his best effort came a year later in March 2024, when he smashed an unbeaten 174* in Wellington to guide the Aussies to a big 172-run win. Beyond some individual performances, Ponting highlighted the value Green brings to the Australian dressing room, while identifying consistency of method as the key challenge ahead. Talking to the players, talking to the coaching staff, they absolutely love what he brings to the group, Ponting noted. The biggest challenge he has is, hes just got to find out the right way and right style for him to play, work out whats going to work for him, and then commit to that and stick to it for a long period of time. Ponting suggested that Greens tendency to constantly search for solutions can sometimes complicate the process and that offering straightforward advice would be preferable. Apparently, hes a very deep thinker about his own game and likes to tinker with things a lot. But if I had some advice for him, itd be just keep things as simple as you can, think about what youve done at domestic cricket and take your domestic game to the Test match and back it in for a while, he said. Apparently, hes a very deep thinker about his own game and likes to tinker with things a lot. Also Read: Live Cricket Score bc/vi Article Source: IANS
Kirstie Gordon commits international future to Scotland
Kirstie Gordon made her international debut for Scotland and then represented England, and now wants to help Scotland rise in the ranks in the women's game
'I'll Always Protect My Players As Much As I Can', Stokes Reacts To Noosa 'stag Do' Allegations
The England Cricket Board: Skipper Ben Stokes has come out in defense of his teammates after it was revealed that Englands mid-Ashes break in Noosa between the second and third Ashes Tests was allegedly a stag do, causing excessive drinking by some players. The England Cricket Board is currently investigating claims of the English teams drinking culture after a video of Ben Duckett went viral, appearing to show intoxication. Stokes has hit back at the viral social media post and stag do rumours, saying his main concern is the wellbeing of his teammates. How I handle this moment right now is the most important thing to me. The welfare of everyone in there and probably some certain individuals as well is the most important thing to me right now as England captain, Stokes told reporters at a press conference before the Boxing Day Test, as quoted by Fox Cricket. This kind of stuff is very, I dont know if close to me is the right wording, but something that I have first hand experience of how it can affect people. And as I said, my role as England captain is to protect my players as much as I possibly can. We have a goal still to try and achieve out here on this trip. Its not gone anywhere near to plan whatsoever, he said. Stokes continued, Looking after my players is one of the main things that I need to get out of this because we need to go out there and win two games of cricket. I know how this kind of stuff can affect people and as I said, I will always protect my players as much as I possibly can. Right here right now, that is my main job as England captain is to ensure that they know that they have my backing because the most important thing to me, sitting here right now, is a group of players who I can get into a best possible state to go out there and try and perform for this country and the remaining of this trip. I know how this kind of stuff can affect people and as I said, I will always protect my players as much as I possibly can. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I have a responsibility as captain out on the field to try and win games of cricket but in moments like these I have that other responsibility of making sure that I will always protect my players in a moment where I feel that is necessary, he further said. Article Source: IANS
ILT20: MI Emirates beat Gulf Giants by Eight Wickets
MI Emirates sealed their playoff berth after a comfortable eight-wicket win over the Gulf Giants at the Zayed Cricket Stadium on Tuesday. An impressive bowling performance, coupled with Nicholas Pooran and Muhammad Waseems unbeaten 140-run stand in just 89 balls, sealed their fourth straight win with 21 balls to spare. Chasing 142, MI Emirates were 58/2 in 10 overs, before Pooran and Waseem smashed 84 runs in the next 6.3 overs. Waseem carried the bat with 59 runs in 42 balls, hitting three fours and three sixes, while Pooran scored an unbeaten 69 in just 49 balls, smashing six sixes and three fours. For the Giants Moeen Alis 51 runs in 48 balls went in vain. In the second innings, Mark Adair set the tone when he trapped Jonny Bairstow LBW (0 off 3), before Azmatullah Omarzai removed Tom Banton (0 off 5) reducing MI Emirates to 2/2 within the first two overs. Pooran and Waseem rotated the strike effectively, finding the odd boundary. Pooran began accelerating post the 10th over and brought up his half-century in 43 balls with a boundary in the 14th over. After completing a 100-run partnership with Pooran in just 74 balls, Waseem then bagged his own half-century in just 38 balls, his first of the season. At the 15th over mark, MI Emirates needed 27 runs in 30 balls. The duo closed out the win with ease, with Pooran hitting back-to-back sixes in the 16th over to bring scores level before Waseem calmly saw the chase home. Earlier, Romario Shepherd made early inroads by removing James Vince (3 off 4) in the second over, before Rahmanullah Gurbaz (11 off 10) was bowled by Fazalhaq Farooqi an over later. Shepherd struck again in the fourth to dismiss Asif Khan (12 off 8), as MI Emirates kept the Giants to 36/3 at the end of the powerplay. MI Emirates continued to squeeze the Giants, with Arab Gul trapping Lorcan Tucker (13 off 13) LBW in the ninth over. Moeen Ali and Omarzai (14 off 19) struggled to lift the tempo as tidy spells from Gul, Shakib Al Hasan and Kieron Pollard ensured the Giants scored just 18 runs between overs seven and 10. Ali and Omarzai added momentum with a partnership of 40 runs in 34 balls, which was broken in the 15th over when Farooqi got Omarzai. Ali and Mayers then put up a 52-run stand off 35 balls. The acceleration came with 15 runs in the 16th over, followed by another 15 in the 18th. Ali brought up his half-century in the 19th over, and with Mayers unbeaten cameo of 28 runs in 18 balls, including four fours and a six, pushed the Giants to 141/6. Match Summary Also Read: Live Cricket Score MI Emirates beat Gulf Giants by eight wickets Gulf Giants 141/6 in 20 overs (Moeen Ali 51, Kyle Mayers 28 not out, Fazalhaq Farooqi 2 for 17, Romario Shepherd 2 for 36) MI Emirates 142/2 in 16.3 overs (Muhammad Waseem 59 not out, Nicholas Pooran 69 not out, Azmatullah Omarzai 1 for 20, Mark Adair 1 for 30) Player of the match: Muhammad Waseem
Bracewell to lead New Zealand in ODIs against India, Santner to return for T20Is
Left-arm quick Jayden Lennox has received his maiden New Zealand call-up, while uncapped Clarke features in the ODI squad
IGPL Finale: Aryan Tops Table At 9-under As Jeev Leads Legends Impressive Show With 7-under
IGPL Invitational Sri Lanka: Aryan Roopa Anand, playing the historic Royal Colombo Golf, for the first time, produced one of his best rounds as a professional with a 9-under 62 on the opening day of the IGPL Invitational Sri Lanka, the final event of the 2025 Indian Golf Premier League (IGPL) Tour on Tuesday. The two-time All India amateur champion, Aryan, opened birdie-birdie and closed similarly, and had a total of nine birdies and an eagle against one bogey on each side of the Royal Colombo. But the man having the most fun seemed to be Indias best-known professional golfer ever, Jeev Milkha Singh, who was playing his first IGPL event. Jeev, a four-time winner on the DP World Tour and four times in Japan, shot 7-under, which included a run of five birdies in the last six holes to lie second. Lying third was local youngster Kaya Daluwatte, who shot 6-under 65. She was also the top woman in the field after the first day. The next best woman was IGPL Mumbai winner, Pranavi Urs, who tumbled from 5-under through 15 holes to 2-under with a bogey-double bogey-par finish over the last three holes. The 54-year-old Jeev was pleased not only with his score but also with the presence of so many young stars in the IGPL field, as several legends shared the stage with Gen Next of Indian golf. The current IGPL Order of Merit leader, Aman Raj, and six-time Asian Tour winner SSP Chawrasia were tied fourth at 4-under, while the 11-time Asian Tour winner, also a double winner at IGPL, Gaganjeet Bhullar, the highly consistent Sachin Baisoya, promising Veer Ganapathy, IGPL UAE winner, Karandeep Kochhar, and Harendra Gupta were in a five-way tie for sixth place. It was a very strong leaderboard on a low-scoring day when 10 players went four-under or better. I dont think there is a pro Tour like this anywhere. The IGPL is getting the legends of Indian golf to play in the same field as promising young stars, many of whom are still amateurs. This will help the young stars learn by just watching the seniors. Plus, we had some very good women players, said Jeev, who now divides his time between the senior Tours in Europe and Japan and some events on the Asian Tour. Jeev remarked. Jeevs group included Veer Ganapathy, son of former touring pro Rahul Ganapathy, while Jyotis son Zorarvar was in the group with Gaganjeet Bhullar, and Harjai played in the group that had Jyoti Randhawa. Among the legends, Jeev had the best score at 7-under, SSP Chawrasia shot 5-under, Gaganjeet Bhullar shot 4-under, and Jyoti Randhawa went 1-over 72. Among the young stars, Veer carded 4-under 67, Zoravar shot even par 71, and Harjai carded 3-over 74. I was quite relaxed today, and the putter was rolling well, so it turned out to be a pretty good score. I did shoot something like 6-under at Ahmedabad, and I wanted to go past it. When I was 7-under with two holes, one of the guys said, It will be great to finish birdie-birdie. And it happened, leader Aryan, who is still searching for his first pro win, said. Jeev, making his debut on the IGPL, was thrilled to play with a bunch of young stars in the same field. I have always wanted to play this historic course, but it never happened. It finally did as I played the Pro-Am with the legendary cricketer, Mahela Jayawardene, and it was great fun, and he plays very well. As for today, it was my first competitive round in Colombo. It was very hot, but I got used to it as I went along. After being two under for the first 12 holes, it was great to finish with five birdies in the last six holes, said Jeev, who also caught up with old buddies. I have played so much golf with Jyoti Randhawa and SSP Chawrasia. It was fun to be in the field with them again today. But the added joy was to play in a field which also included Jyotis son, Zoravar; my son, Harjai, and Veer Ganapathy, son of Rahul Ganapathy. Jeev was just 2-under for the first 12 holes. He was trying to get used to the heat in what was his first appearance in Colombo. Then Jeev found a different gear and birdied four in a row from the 13th to the 16th, missed a birdie on the 17th, and closed again with a birdie to make it five birdies in the last six holes. I have played so much golf with Jyoti Randhawa and SSP Chawrasia. It was fun to be in the field with them again today. But the added joy was to play in a field which also included Jyotis son, Zoravar; my son, Harjai, and Veer Ganapathy, son of Rahul Ganapathy. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Kaya, who has represented Sri Lanka at the Womens Amateur Asia-Pacific (WAAP), shot 6-under 65, which included a stunning run of six birdies in the last seven holes. She was also the top women's player in the field. It was great to play alongside two Olympians, Udayan Mane and SSP Chawrasia, who are both great players, and I learnt so much, just watching them, said the 16-year-old Kaya, who will be joining college golf in the US when she joins Pepperdine next year Article Source: IANS
Lennox Earns First Call-up; Santner, Henry, And Jamieson Return For T20 Tour Of India
The Black Caps Head Coach: New Zealand 'A' left-arm orthodox bowler Jayden Lennox has earned his first call-up to the Black Caps squad, as New Zealand Cricket named a balanced squad with rotating players for both the one-day and T20 series in India to be played next month. The NZC picked squads that are a mix of experienced while-ball experts like Devon Conway, Mitchell Santner, and Michael Bracewell, with debutants like Lennox and Kristian Clarke, as they search for a perfect squad for a series that will help the team prepare for the upcoming T20 World Cup. Lennox has been named in the ODI squad, alongside the uncapped Kristian Clarke, and emerging internationals Adi Ashok, Josh Clarkson, Nick Kelly, and the recent Test debutant, Michael Rae. The Black Caps Head Coach, Rob Walter, said hes pleased to see Lennoxs progression through the NZC high-performance system. Jayden has been an identified player of interest for some time and has some good New Zealand A experience under his belt. He's consistently been one of the top performers in white-ball cricket domestically for a number of seasons. Kyle Jamieson and Mitchell Santner are set to feature for New Zealand again, with Jamieson coming straight back into both the one-day and T20 sides, and Santner being named in the T20 side only, as part of his return-to-play plan as he recovers from his groin injury. Michael Bracewell will captain the side during the one-day series in Santners absence, surrounded by an experienced leadership group of Devon Conway, Daryl Mitchell, Will Young, and Henry Nicholls. Test captain Tom Latham and front-line seam bowler Matt Henry both miss the ODI series, with the former staying in New Zealand for the birth of his third child, and the latter continuing to rehab after his recent calf tear ahead of the T20 series and the ICC Mens T20 World Cup in February, New Zealand Cricket informed in a release on Tuesday. Nathan Smith (side), Blair Tickner (shoulder), and Mark Chapman (ankle) were not considered for selection for the ODI series as they continue with their respective return-to-play plans. Chapman is on track to play in the T20 series. Ben Sears has returned from his stint in Melbourne, but was not considered for selection in ODI cricket as he works through his return to play program. Sears is progressing well and is on track to be available for the Super Smash. Kane Williamson is unavailable for ODI selection due to commitments in the SA20 league. Mitch Hay will keep wicket for the ODI series, whereas Devon Conway will take the gloves for the T20Is. Jacob Duffy and Rachin Ravindra will both sit out the ODI series to allow them to rest after being involved in all cricket since the start of the home summer. New Zealand will play five T20Is immediately after the three ODIs in India, as part of their final preparation for the 2026 Mens T20 World Cup in February and March. The importance of the series ahead of the T20 World Cup is not lost on Head Coach Rob Walter. Playing in the sub-continent is obviously very different to what were used to in New Zealand, so any opportunity we can get to expose our guys to those conditions can only be a good thing, especially prior to a T20 World Cup in the subcontinent. Alongside Santner, Chapman and Henry are set to return to the T20 side after recovering from ankle and calf injuries, respectively. Batters Bevon Jacobs and Tim Robinson both come back into the T20 squad after producing some impressive performances for their respective domestic sides. Jacobs is averaging 54 across his seven most recent innings, including one century, and Robinson is averaging just over 60 across his last nine innings, including two centuries. James Neesham and Ish Sodhi also come back into the Black Caps squad, with Neesham having stints in the Nepal Premier League and ILT20 in recent weeks. Sodhi returns from domestic duties with Canterbury. Newly IPL-contracted players Jacob Duffy and Zak Foulkes have earned the nod after impressing throughout the home summer, with Foulkes set to experience T20 cricket in India for the first time. Lockie Ferguson, Adam Milne, Finn Allen, and Tim Seifert will be joining the squad in India as soon as their franchise commitments are completed. This will allow them to feature in the back end of the T20 series in India ahead of the T20 World Cup. The T20 World Cup Squad will be announced in mid-January. ODI Squad for India Michael Bracewell (c), Adi Ashok, Kristian Clarke, Josh Clarkson, Devon Conway, Zak Foulkes, Mitch Hay, Kyle Jamieson, Nick Kelly, Jayden Lennox, Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Glenn Phillips, Michael Rae, Will Young T20 Squad v India Michael Bracewell (c), Adi Ashok, Kristian Clarke, Josh Clarkson, Devon Conway, Zak Foulkes, Mitch Hay, Kyle Jamieson, Nick Kelly, Jayden Lennox, Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Glenn Phillips, Michael Rae, Will Young Also Read: Live Cricket Score Unavailable due to injury: Will ORourke (back), Blair Tickner (shoulder), Nathan Smith (side) Article Source: IANS
2nd T20I: As A Bowling Unit, We Struggled To Adapt, Says Athapaththu After Seven-wicket Defeat
Rajasekhara Reddy ACA VDCA Cricket: Sri Lanka Women skipper Chamari Athapaththu lamented about the batting woes of the visitors despite a good batting surface as they suffered their second straight loss in the five-match series against hosts India at Dr. Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA VDCA Cricket Stadium. Opener Shafali Verma delivered an impressive unbeaten 69 as India Women defeated Sri Lanka by a seven-wicket victory, finishing the match with 49 balls remaining to take a 2-0 lead in the five-match T20I series. Choosing to bowl first, India struck quickly and kept Sri Lanka from gaining any momentum. Sri Lanka improved slightly from their 121 in the first T20I. Kranti Gaud continued her good form by taking down Vishmi Gunaratne for 1 in the first over, caught off the follow-through. Although Arundathi Reddy let a few runs slip early on, the Indian bowlers applied enough pressure to keep Sri Lanka from breaking free. Sri Lanka managed to score 39 runs in the Power-play but faced difficulties, with skipper Chamari Athapaththu as their main contributor. Athapaththu hit two sixes in her 31 off 24 balls before falling to Sneh Rana, the only change in the lineup for the second T20I due to Deepti Sharma's absence because of a fever. We had a good Power-play, but unfortunately, we lost 2 wickets, including myself included. India bowled according to their plans. The batters always try to play horizontal shots, which is not their strength. We have to improve. We have to play the middle and death overs well. We need to go for boundaries rather than a rotating strike. As a bowling unit, we struggled to adapt. It's too hard to spin. We need 150+ runs to defend. This wicket is really good for batting. With the dew coming in, it's not easy to bowl. We need runs to play with, Athapaththu said after the match. Sri Lanka managed to score 39 runs in the Power-play but faced difficulties, with skipper Chamari Athapaththu as their main contributor. Athapaththu hit two sixes in her 31 off 24 balls before falling to Sneh Rana, the only change in the lineup for the second T20I due to Deepti Sharma's absence because of a fever. Also Read: Live Cricket Score In response, Shafali Verma led Indias chase with an impressive unbeaten 69 off 34 balls. She contributed 29 runs alongside Smriti Mandhana, who scored 14 off 11. Jemimah Rodrigues added 26 off 15 balls. India sped to 113 in the first 10 overs and completed the chase at 129 for 3 in 11.5 overs, with Richa Ghosh hitting the winning run. Article Source: IANS
2nd T20I: Shafali, Charani Star As India Thrash Sri Lanka Women By Seven Wickets
Rajasekhara Reddy ACA VDCA Cricket: Opener Shafali Verma delivered an impressive unbeaten 69 as India Women tasted a strong seven-wicket victory over Sri Lanka Women, finishing the match with 49 balls remaining at the Dr. Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA VDCA Cricket Stadium to take a 2-0 lead in the five-match T20I series. India's bowlers, especially Shree Charani, set a solid foundation before Shafali completed the chase in style. Choosing to bowl first, India struck quickly and kept Sri Lanka from gaining any momentum. They took wickets consistently, limiting the visitors to 128 for 9 in their 20 overs. Sri Lanka improved slightly from their 121 in the first T20I. Kranti Gaud continued her good form by taking down Vishmi Gunaratne for 1 in the first over, caught off the follow-through. Although Arundathi Reddy let a few runs slip early on, the Indian bowlers applied enough pressure to keep Sri Lanka from breaking free. Sri Lanka managed to score 39 runs in the Power-play but faced difficulties, with skipper Chamari Athapaththu as their main contributor. Athapaththu hit two sixes in her 31 off 24 balls before falling to Sneh Rana, the only change in the lineup for the second T20I due to Deepti Sharma's absence because of a fever. Hasini Perera and Harshitha Samarawickrama stabilised the innings by rotating the strike, bringing Sri Lanka to 66 for 2 by the halfway point. As the field opened up, Perera struggled to find the boundary and was eventually out for 22 off 28 balls, dismissed by Shree Charani in the 13th over, ending their 44-run partnership. Harshitha appeared confident during her knock and scored 33 before being run out in the 17th over. Sri Lanka could not maintain their pace at the end, losing wickets rapidly. Nilakshi de Silva added just two runs before being dismissed by Vaishnavi Sharma, who took her first T20I wicket, as Sri Lanka finished at 128 for 9. Shree Charani (2/23) and Vaishnavi Sharma (2-32) were the top bowlers, with Kranti Gaud (1-21) and Sneh Rana (1-11) each taking one wicket. In response, Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana started strong for India, putting together 29 runs before Mandhana was out for 14 off 11 balls. Jemimah Rodrigues took control next, hitting four fours and a six in her 26 off 15 balls before being caught at long off by Kawya Kavindi. India raced to 113 in the first 10 overs, their highest tally after the first 10 in womens T20Is, surpassing the previous record of 111 against Malaysia Women at Hangzhou during the 2023 Asian Games. Shafali continued her onslaught after the Power-play, reaching her 12th T20I fifty off just 27 balls. She ended her innings unbeaten on 69 off 34 balls, including 11 fours and a six. Harmanpreet Kaur scored 10 off 12 balls before being bowled by Malki Madara when the score was tied, and Richa Ghosh then hit the winning run in the 12th over, completing the chase at 129 for 3 in 11.5 overs. This victory marked Indias second-largest win over Sri Lanka in womens T20Is in terms of balls left, only behind the 69-ball win in Sylhet in 2022. The series now moves to Thiruvananthapuram for the third T20I on Friday, December 26. Shafali continued her onslaught after the Power-play, reaching her 12th T20I fifty off just 27 balls. She ended her innings unbeaten on 69 off 34 balls, including 11 fours and a six. Harmanpreet Kaur scored 10 off 12 balls before being bowled by Malki Madara when the score was tied, and Richa Ghosh then hit the winning run in the 12th over, completing the chase at 129 for 3 in 11.5 overs. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Sri Lanka Women 128/9 in 20 overs (Harshitha Samarawickrama 33, Chamari Athapaththu 32; Shree Charani 2-23, Vaishnavi Sharma 2-32) lost to India Women 129/3 in 11.5 overs (Shafali Verma 69 not out, Jemimah Rodrigues 26; Kavisha Dilhari 1-15) by seven wickets. Article Source: IANS
Markram Embraces Fresh Challenge At Durban's Super Giants Ahead Of New SA20 Season
World Test Championship Final: After three successful seasons at Sunrisers Eastern Cape (SEC), South African star Aiden Markram said he is looking forward to embracing a new challenge of captaining Durban's Super Giants (DSG) in Season 4 of SA20, starting on December 26. In Markram, DSG have acquired the league's most successful captain and the only one to have led South Africa to a Mens Cricket World Cup final. Markram steered the SEC to three consecutive finals and has demonstrated a proven ability to extract peak performances from his players. Speaking to IANS in the JioStar Press Room ahead of SA20 Season 4, Markram, the right-handed opener, outlined his approach to leading a new franchise, particularly with the 2026 Mens T20 World Cup to come immediately after the end of the competition. New team, obviously exciting. You don't want to put too many expectations and additional pressures on players. I think it's a month and a time of year in South Africa that all the players thoroughly enjoy, and that should be sort of the way you go about things, Markram said. As sportsmen, naturally, no one likes losing, and everybody wants to win, and you let that natural competitiveness come out on the field. But off the field and in between games, I think it's really important that guys have a really fun time in South Africa and enjoy what South Africa has to offer. Naturally, on the field, you try to deliver a winning performance and get competitive, he added. The tournament comes at a time when South African cricket has experienced a notable resurgence in men's ICC events making the semi-finals of the 2023 ODI World Cup, becoming runners-up in the 2024 T20 World Cup, and winning the 2025 World Test Championship Final. League commissioner and former South African skipper Graeme Smith credited the players for their recent success while highlighting SA20's role in developing talent. Credit needs to go to the players and the national team for their performance over the last couple of years. Seeing the squad depth and the performances they've put in has been a proud thing to watch and be a part of, so credit must go to them. Our role at SA20 from the beginning, we've always said that we want to put 50-60 players on the global map every year, expose them to the best possible cricket in front of big crowds, big production, and start to really help develop the player pool around the national teams. Credit needs to go to the players and the national team for their performance over the last couple of years. Seeing the squad depth and the performances they've put in has been a proud thing to watch and be a part of, so credit must go to them. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Catch all the action from SA20 Season 4, December 26 2025 - January 25 2026, LIVE on JioHotstar and Star Sports Network. Article Source: IANS
2nd T20I: Charani, Vaishnavi Claim Two Each As India Restrict Sri Lanka To 128/9
Rajasekhara Reddy ACA: Superb spells by spinners N. Shree Charani (2-23) and Vaishnavi Sharma (2-32) helped India reduce Sri Lanka Women to 128/9 in 20 overs at the Dr. Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACAVDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam on Tuesday. Having opted to bowl first, the hosts struck early and maintained pressure throughout the innings, picking up wickets at regular intervals. Sri Lanka had managed 121 in the first T20I and showed only marginal improvement this time with a total of 128. Sri Lanka suffered an early setback in the very first over as Kranti Gaud, living up to her reputation, removed Vishmi Gunaratne for 1, caught on the follow-through. Arundathi Reddy bowled a few loose deliveries, leaking runs, but the pressure kept on building on the visitors, who struggled to build momentum against a disciplined Indian bowling attack. Despite adding 39 runs in the first six overs, Sri Lanka found themselves in trouble once again, with skipper Chamari Athapaththu scoring the bulk of the runs. Athapaththu struck two sixes in her 31 off 24 balls before being dismissed by Sneh Rana, the only change in either side for the second T20I after Deepti Sharma missed out due to a fever. India had earlier won the toss and elected to bowl again. Harshitha Samarawickrama walked in at No. 3 and, along with Perera, steadied the innings. The pair rotated the strike well as Sri Lanka reached 66 for 2 at the halfway mark. However, with the field spread out, Perera struggled to find the boundary. He was eventually out for 22 off 28 balls by Shree Charani in the 13th over, which ended a 44-run partnership. Harshitha looked strong and scored 33 before getting run out in the 17th over. Sri Lanka could not build momentum in the final stages. Nilakshi de Silva had a short stay, scoring 2 before being dismissed by Vaishnavi Sharma, who took her first T20I wicket. A late flurry of wickets meant the visitors finished their innings at 128 for 9. For India, Shree Charani (2/23) and Vaishnavi Sharma (2/32) took two wickets each, while Kranti Gaud (1/21) and Sneh Rana (1/11) added one each. Harshitha Samarawickrama walked in at No. 3 and, along with Perera, steadied the innings. The pair rotated the strike well as Sri Lanka reached 66 for 2 at the halfway mark. However, with the field spread out, Perera struggled to find the boundary. He was eventually out for 22 off 28 balls by Shree Charani in the 13th over, which ended a 44-run partnership. Harshitha looked strong and scored 33 before getting run out in the 17th over. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Sri Lanka-W 128/9 in 20 overs (Harshitha Samarawickrama 33, Chamari Athapaththu 32; Shree Charani 2-23, Vaishnavi Sharma 2-32) against India Article Source: IANS
Nagesh Trophy: CAB Rajasthan, CAB Kerala Win In League Matches
National T20 Cricket Tournament: Rajasthan delivered a dominant all-round performance to register a convincing 10-wicket victory over Himachal in a league match of the 8th Edition of the Nagesh Trophy Mens National T20 Cricket Tournament for the Blind, held at the Railway Sports Ground, Hubli on Tuesday. After winning the toss, Rajasthan opted to field and produced a disciplined bowling effort to restrict Himachal to 164/8 in 20 overs. Vijay Kumar anchored the innings for Himachal with a brisk 104 runs, while BR Kaushal contributed 22 runs. Despite the resistance from Vijay Kumar, regular strikes by the Rajasthan bowlers prevented Himachal from building sustained momentum. Rajasthan skipper Lalit Meena (B1) led from the front with the ball, picking up two wickets, well supported by Murari Lal (B2). In reply, Rajasthan showcased complete batting dominance. Openers Nikhil Maharshi and Rohitash made light work of the chase, remaining unbeaten and guiding the team to victory in just 14.4 overs. Nikhil Maharshi scored a fluent 65 off 46 balls while Rohitash smashed an aggressive 86 off 47 balls. Their explosive partnership ensured a swift finish without the loss of a wicket. For his match-winning knock and impactful all-round contribution, Nikhil Maharshi (CAB Rajasthan) was deservedly adjudged the Player of the Match. Kerala secured an emphatic win Kerala continued the momentum with a commanding performance, registering a comprehensive nine-wicket win over Maharashtra in another league match of the tournament. After winning the toss, Maharashtra opted to bat but were kept under tight control by a disciplined Kerala bowling attack. Maharashtra were bowled out for 109 in 16 overs, with Anil Belsare (B3) top-scoring with 31 runs, while Swapnil Dilip Wagh contributed 28 runs off 22 balls. Keralas bowlers shared the spoils effectively, led by Sayanth K.B. (B1) and Jayakrishnan, who claimed two wickets each, supported well by Sachin (B2) and Snehith (B2). After winning the toss, Maharashtra opted to bat but were kept under tight control by a disciplined Kerala bowling attack. Maharashtra were bowled out for 109 in 16 overs, with Anil Belsare (B3) top-scoring with 31 runs, while Swapnil Dilip Wagh contributed 28 runs off 22 balls. Also Read: Live Cricket Score For his impactful all-round performance, Sayanth K.B. (B1) was adjudged the Player of the Match. Article Source: IANS
2nd T20I: Harmanpreet Opts To Bowl As Sneh Rana Comes In For Sick Deepti Sharma
Dr YS Rajasekhara Reddy ACA: India captain Harmanpreet Kaur won the toss and elected to bowl first against Sri Lanka in the second T20I of the five-match bilateral series at the Dr YS Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium, Visakhapatnam, on Tuesday. India made one change to the playing XI from the first match, with Sneh Rana coming for the World No. 1-ranked ODI bowler in ICC Rankings, Deepti Sharma, who is unwell and has a fever. Sri Lanka have opted to go in with the same playing XI that did duty in the first match of the series. Although she has won the toss for the second consecutive game, Harmanpreet Kaur said it was a new experience for her, as she is not accustomed to winning the toss, but is enjoying it. Deepti is not well, Sneh Rana returns. We played well, nothing changes, same approach, said the Indian skipper. Sri Lanka captain Chamari Athapaththu said she is confident about her team. We're going with the same XI, I'm confident about my team. Gotta play confidently, that's the most important thing. Last game, we played behind the wicket. We have to play straight to our strength, he added. The ODI World Cup-winner India lead the five-match bilateral series 1-0 after winning the opening T20I at the ACA-VDCA Stadium in Visakhapatnam on Sunday. The Indian bowlers delivered a superb performance to restrict Sri Lanka to 121/8. The hosts then chased down the paltry target for the loss of two wickets with Jemimah Rodrigues scoring an unbeaten 69. Playing XIs: The ODI World Cup-winner India lead the five-match bilateral series 1-0 after winning the opening T20I at the ACA-VDCA Stadium in Visakhapatnam on Sunday. The Indian bowlers delivered a superb performance to restrict Sri Lanka to 121/8. The hosts then chased down the paltry target for the loss of two wickets with Jemimah Rodrigues scoring an unbeaten 69. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Sri Lanka: Chamari Athapaththu (capt), Hasini Perera, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Vishmi Gunaratne, Nilakshika Silva, Kaushini Nuthyangana (wk), Kavisha Dilhari, Malki Madara, Inoka Ranaweera, Kawya Kavindi, Shashini Gimhani Article Source: IANS
India bowl against Sri Lanka but Deepti ruled out with mild fever
Sneh Rana replaced Deepti, while Sri Lanka were unchanged for the second T20I
Thomas Rew to lead England at Under-19s World Cup
Highly rated wicketkeeper-batter returns after missing Caribbean tour while with England Lions
Jemimah Rodrigues appointed Delhi Capitals captain ahead of WPL 2026
She replaces Meg Lanning in the role, who was not retained by DC this season
Tom Curran and Sam Harper power Stars past Strikers
Curran, who got 3 for 35, struck twice in the second over as Stars restricted Strikers to 155
DDCA Vice President Shikha Kumar: The Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) on Tuesday held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) for the 202526 term at its registered office at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Ferozeshah Kotla Ground in New Delhi. The meeting focused on several essential governance matters, which were discussed and approved by the members. As part of the event, the DDCA also expressed gratitude by presenting 20 motorcycles to the Delhi Police, Central District, in recognition of their continued support during cricket events hosted at the venue. During the AGM, a special resolution was passed to appoint Honble Justice M.M. Kumar, former Chief Justice of the Jammu & Kashmir High Court, as the Ombudsman and Ethics Officer of the Association. Additionally, four regular agenda items were discussed and approved by an overwhelming majority. These included the adoption of the audited financial statements for 2025 and the reappointment of the Association's Chartered Accountants, alongside other statutory matters. Speaking on the proceedings of the AGM, DDCA President Rohan Jaitley said, The Annual General Meeting is central to the democratic functioning and governance framework of the DDCA. The decisions taken today, including the appointment of the Ombudsman-cum-Ethics Officer, reflect our commitment to transparency, accountability, and robust institutional processes. Later in the day, the DDCA officially transferred 20 motorcycles to the Delhi Police, Central District, recognising their vital role in maintaining safety, managing crowds, and ensuring smooth operations during national and international cricket matches held at the Arun Jaitley Stadium throughout the year. Thanking the Delhi Police, Jaitley added, The successful conduct of major cricketing events in Delhi is made possible through close coordination with the Delhi Police. Their professionalism and timely assistance are vital to maintaining safety and order during matchdays. This initiative is a small token of our appreciation and a step towards strengthening operational efficiency on the ground. Rishi Kumar Singh, Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police, accepted the motorcycles on behalf of the Delhi Police, Central District. He expressed gratitude and mentioned that the additional vehicles would enhance mobility and support better law and order management during sporting events and everyday police work. Thanking the Delhi Police, Jaitley added, The successful conduct of major cricketing events in Delhi is made possible through close coordination with the Delhi Police. Their professionalism and timely assistance are vital to maintaining safety and order during matchdays. This initiative is a small token of our appreciation and a step towards strengthening operational efficiency on the ground. Also Read: Live Cricket Score These dual initiatives highlight the DDCA's commitment to robust governance and fostering meaningful institutional partnerships, all geared towards ensuring the smooth and successful hosting of cricket events in the national capital. Article Source: IANS
Thomas Rew Named Captain As England Names U19 World Cup Squad
U19 World Cup: The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has announced a 15-member squad for the upcoming Mens U19 World Cup, set to be hosted by Zimbabwe and Namibia from January 15, 2026. Somerset wicketkeeper-batter Thomas Rew, who recently took part in the England Lions tour of Australia, will lead the team as captain for the upcoming ICC Under-19 Men's Cricket World Cup. Nottinghamshire all-rounder Farhan Ahmed, who served as captain in Rews absence during the seven-match Youth ODI series against West Indies in Grenada, continues to hold a leadership position as vice-captain. Uncapped Leicestershire left-arm spinner Ali Farooq has received his first selection for the Young Lions. England Men U19s Head Coach, Mike Yardy, in an ECB statement, said, This is an amazing opportunity for the players we have selected to not only wear an England shirt at a World Cup but also to go out and try and do something special. We have a balanced squad with a core group of players who already have county experience and who have developed a camaraderie while playing together for the U19s that will serve them well during the tournament. I really want the players to enjoy the opportunity to play at a World Cup, in a beautiful country like Zimbabwe, and to embrace the chance to compete against different countries and show their quality. The English side will be located in Zimbabwe and is placed in Group C of the 16-team tournament. They will start their campaign with a match against Pakistan in Harare on Friday, January 16, followed by games against co-hosts Zimbabwe and Scotland on January 18 and 21. The three leading nations from each of the four groups will advance to the Super Six stage. The final match is scheduled to take place at Harare Sports Club on Friday, February 6. The English side will be located in Zimbabwe and is placed in Group C of the 16-team tournament. They will start their campaign with a match against Pakistan in Harare on Friday, January 16, followed by games against co-hosts Zimbabwe and Scotland on January 18 and 21. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Thomas Rew (c), Farhan Ahmed, Ralphie Albert, Ben Dawkins, Caleb Falconer, Ali Farooq, Alex French, Alex Green, Luke Hands, Manny Lumsden, Ben Mayes, James Minto, Isaac Mohammed, Joe Moores, Sebastian Morgan. Article Source: IANS
Sarfaraz to Pakistan's U-19s after beating India: 'Celebrate but with decorum'
In a video from the Asia Cup final that went viral, Pakistan's mentor was heard telling his players not to be uncivil even if India's players crossed lines
Ashes fallout: Contrite Key admits New Zealand white-ball tour was planning error
Batters struggled for form in tough conditions and were unable to raise their games, says England MD
All-format Ambition A Driving Force Behind Karnataka's Run Machine Smaran Ravichandran
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: Smaran Ravichandran has never been interested in choosing between formats. For Smaran, 22, the goal has always been to be a batter who excels in all three formats of the game. The goal right from the beginning when I started playing was to focus on all three formats and to become an all-format player for the country has always been my goal. All my work ethics and all the preparation that goes in during the off-season goes into all the three formats and not just one particular format. Yes, I would lay emphasis more on the red-ball aspect in order to play Tests for the country. But I think it's equally important to focus on the other two formats as well. As I said, my goal has always been to represent the country in all three formats. So I think even now my preparation and everything that I do will go into getting my team through across all three formats, Smaran told IANS in an exclusive conversation ahead of the start of Vijay Hazare Trophy, where Karnataka enter as defending champions. It's an ambitious declaration, considering playing all three formats as a batter is a rarity due to hectic scheduling. But then its backed by numbers that suggest Smaran is literally walking the talk. From having a forgettable start to his first-class career, Smaran has quickly become one of the closely followed batters in Indian cricket, due to his ability to adjust seamlessly between formats. His arrival into public memory came in last seasons Vijay Hazare Trophy, amassing 432 runs, including a match-winning century in the final. Then he ended the last Ranji season with scores of 203, 35 & 133 not out and had scores of 77 & 10, 3, 220 not out, 54 & 4 and 227 not out. In that Vijay Hazare Trophy final against Vidarbha in Vadodara, Karnataka were struggling early on a pitch offering conditions suitable for batting. But Smaran, playing in his first senior final for the state, recognised an opportunity to do something special. We were three down for 60-65 odd runs (67/3). As I recollect, the wicket was good to bat and just needed one partnership to get the team through. Me and (KL) Shrijith (who made 78) got a really big partnership to take it forward from there. With Abhinav (Manohar) coming in at the end and giving us those hits got us to a very good score of 350 or 348 if I'm not wrong. Lifting the trophy for Karnataka has always been the dream. I'm glad that we did it and now heading into this Vijay Hazare Trophy, obviously we are the defending champions and hopefully we can get another title home, he added. There's no hesitation when Smaran says the 101 that final stands at the top of his list of best knocks in his career so far. Its not just for the runs but for what it represented - Karnataka's first domestic trophy in five years and his own arrival on the big stage. His maiden first-class century, scored at his home ground M Chinnaswamy Stadium, comes a close second. It came in his sixth game after a lean opening phase, making the breakthrough all that sweet. Smaran goes into the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy on the back of amassing 319 runs in seven innings at a strike rate of 158.70 for Karnataka in the recently concluded Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, though the team failed to qualify for the knockouts. With a much longer break in hand, Smaran had time in hand to prepare for switching from 20-over cricket to 50-over format. After coming back to a chilly Bengaluru, Smaran had a weeks preparation to work on Vijay Hazare Trophy preparation with his childhood coach Syed Zabiulla, before playing a few practice games within the states set-up. When not doing anything around cricket, Smaran enjoys playing paddle and catching up on all kinds of movies in Hindi, English and Kannada, but crime thrillers is his go-to genre to watch. But the transition from red-ball to white-ball wasn't straightforward, he admits. In the Ranji Trophy, emphasis is on occupying the crease for extended periods. T20 cricket demands explosive bursts and immediate gear changes, as well as 3-4 days of focus on quality power hitting. But moving from T20 to 50-over cricket? That's more manageable for Smaran. In Ranji Trophy, you focus on playing the entire day or one and a half days. The focus is to stay at the crease. But in T20s, it's about those short bursts of runs and intensity is higher, and you straight away switch into different gears. So that was challenging. Heading into Vijay Hazare, the switch is going to be easier compared from when we switched to Ranji Trophy to Mushtaq Ali because it's still the white-ball format. Obviously, in the 50-over format, you have that extra time of settling down and taking your time out there in the middle, unlike the T20 format. Smaran's brief stint with Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in this years IPL provided him with direct access to some of T20 cricket's most destructive players. Though he wasnt a like for like replacement for Adam Zampa, Smaran conceded going from watching IPL matches on television to sharing a dressing room with a plethora of international stars was surreal. Though his stint prematurely due to an injury picked after tripping over advertising hoarding while taking a catch in the practice, the conversations he had with Heinrich Klaasen and Ishan Kishan were very precious for Smaran, who stands just shy of six feet, and his long levers giving him a natural ability to clear the boundary. His strength lies square of the wicket - a result of picking lengths sharply and assured back-foot play. I spoke to Klaasen and I had conversations with Ishan as well regarding their aspects of and how they approach the game in the T20 format. A lot of valuable inputs came from Klaasen regarding how he stays still and how he keeps a solid base while hitting. Just conversations like that to inculcate into my game so that I can keep getting better at it, he said. Those insights are now woven into his own game, as he continues to develop the power-hitting skills required in modern white-ball cricket. As someone who grew up admiring Kumar Sangakkara and Michael Hussey - two left-handers renowned for their adaptability across formats - Smaran understands what true all-format success looks like. He recalls watching Sangakkara's 287 against South Africa, coming in a record 684-run stand with Mahela Jayawardene against Sri Lanka, leaving him in awe of the patience and concentration required to bat for long periods in Tests. That ability to occupy the crease through extended passages of play is something Smaran knows he must continue developing. There are still phases of the game where you feel during a Test game to go with your shots and that is something that I still have to work on But yes, a big aspect of Test cricket goes to patience, but that is still a work in progress and I just try to bat long phases of the game without losing concentration. I mean it's easy to say but to get the job done is really hard but that is something that I have to keep in mind, he said. While his cricket career accelerates, Ravichandran hasn't abandoned his academics. He's currently pursuing an MBA in finance at Ramaiah University in Bangalore, after completing his B.Com degree. It's a balance his parents have always insisted upon. Right from the beginning they have been supportive of my journey and they have really allowed me to give me all the freedom to go ahead and pursue it side to side because with the competition in the country there is no guarantee with sport in general in the country, he says. Are his parents satisfied with his progress in cricket? Well, not yet. The answer is no because there is still a long way to go and my mom asked me why didn't you get runs in the last two games of the Mushtaq Ali trophy. So thats something that always keeps me going and that is the motivation that my mom keeps giving me. Smarans cricketing journey ironically began from a decision made by his mother she need an activity to keep her restless son engaged and more importantly, be outside home. The solution arrived when a cricket coaching academy opened in the same residential layout where Smarans family still lives. His mother enrolled him there, hoping it would burn off some of that restless energy. I always had an interest towards cricket, but didn't know the facets of the game and how professional cricket worked. But I always had an interest towards batting and cricket in general. That's when I met my coach and things were gradually taken forward. What began as a parenting strategy has become the foundation of a promising cricket career. In his early years, Smaran was an all-rounder who bowled off-spin, though its frequency has gone down. I still bowl off-spin, but now I bowl a lot less. But till I was about 14 or 15, I played as an all-rounder, but then after a while when I grew in height, I didn't have that much of accuracy in my off-spin. But that is something that I still have to work on because the way the game is growing, having 2 or 3 skills is equally important. So that is something that I want to work on and I'm going to do it. Smaran represented Karnataka at every level, making his under-19 debut at just 15 while also piling up runs in under-16 cricket. That early success fuelled a specific ambition: representing India at the 2022 Under-19 World Cup. Then Covid-19 pandemic arrived, and with it, the suspension of cricket worldwide. When the game restarted, Smaran couldnt make the cut for the mega event which India won. That was something that I really had my mind on fulfilling. My main goal was to represent India at the under-19 World Cup but that didn't happen. But it's all part and parcel of the game. The game always has its ups and downs. After that, I realized that representing Karnataka at the senior level and playing Ranji Trophy for the state will be my biggest goal, he said with his tone being polite rather than bitter. It was a recalibration rather than a setback and swiftly paved the way for Smaran to break into the senior Karnataka team. I am glad that I got to make my debut last year and I am looking to take it forward from there. Again, the main goal is to still win a lot of tournaments with Karnataka and whichever team that I play for. For Smaran, personal milestones matter less than collective success. Growing up watching Vinay Kumar-led Karnataka claim back-to-back Ranji Trophy titles and the trebles in 2013/14 and 2014/15 instilled in him a clear sense of what the state expects from the current crop. It was a recalibration rather than a setback and swiftly paved the way for Smaran to break into the senior Karnataka team. I am glad that I got to make my debut last year and I am looking to take it forward from there. Again, the main goal is to still win a lot of tournaments with Karnataka and whichever team that I play for. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Hopefully we can do in the upcoming years as well as in the season that we're in now - we can win both the trophies and bring it back home. Definitely that's the goal, irrespective of whether I'm on top of the runs or not, I think as long as we get the trophy back home, that itself is the cherry on the cake, he signed off. Article Source: IANS
All Vijay Hazare Trophy Matches In Bengaluru Moved From Chinnaswamy To BCCI CoE
Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemant Kumar: All Vijay Hazare Trophy matches that were set to take place at Bengaluru's M Chinnaswamy Stadium have been relocated to the BCCI Centre of Excellence, due to a directive from the Karnataka government citing security issues. All Vijay Hazare Trophy matches scheduled to be held at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium will now happen at the BCCI CoE. Its a decision which was taken earlier in the day due to security reasons, as said by the state government, a DDCA official told IANS on Tuesday. The official further said that both participating teams for the opening game had been notified, and their pre-match training session is now set to take place at the BCCI CoE. The Delhi team has been told about it and their pre-match practice against Andhra will now happen at CoE, the official added. Meanwhile, all the Vijay Hazare matches in Bengaluru will be held without spectators. The Bengaluru police have assured a strong security presence around the Aerospace Park, where CoE is located. Karnataka Police have refused permission for the Vijay Hazare Trophy match between Delhi and Andhra Pradesh at Chinnaswamy Stadium, citing serious safety and crowd-control concerns. The decision was taken after a thorough inspection by Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemant Kumar, officials from the Greater Bengaluru Authority, and the Fire Department, who identified critical gaps in venue infrastructure and emergency preparedness. On Monday, a committee constituted by the Karnataka government, comprising officials from the police, public works and fire safety departments, inspected the Chinnaswamy Stadium and submitted a report. The Bengaluru City Police Commissioner had already issued a 17-point advisory outlining mandatory safety measures. The committee verified whether these points had been complied with and submitted its findings to the government. On Monday, a committee constituted by the Karnataka government, comprising officials from the police, public works and fire safety departments, inspected the Chinnaswamy Stadium and submitted a report. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The KSCA had earlier expressed confidence in staging matches featuring Kohli and Pant at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium. Article Source: IANS
Formula 1 2025 Season turns out to be pivotal year for Indian motorsport
The Indian market's link to F1 is more robust than ever. Record-breaking viewership confirms India's vital role in the sport's worldwide strategy. This growth is supported by extending FanCode's exclusive broadcast deal through 2028, allowing Indian fans to stay connected to the action as local drivers gear up for the 2026 world stage.
Indonesia's Gede Priandana becomes first to pick five wickets in an over in T20Is
Gede Priandana, the right-arm quick, recorded the feat in the first T20I against Cambodia in Bali on Tuesday
Karnataka Police Deny Permission For Vijay Hazare Trophy Match At Chinnaswamy Stadium
Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemant Kumar: Karnataka Police have denied permission for the Vijay Hazare Trophy match between Delhi and Andhra Pradesh at Chinnaswamy Stadium, citing serious safety and crowd control concerns. The decision was taken after a thorough inspection by Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemant Kumar, officials from the Greater Bengaluru Authority, and the Fire Department, who raised critical gaps in venue infrastructure and emergency preparedness. Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemant Kumar Singh made the statement in this regard on Tuesday, while addressing media persons. The committee had gone to the stadium on Monday, on the instructions of the Home Department. Officers from various departments, including fire, Bengaluru Electricity Supply Company (Bescom), Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) and police, had inspected the stadium. As per the report from the officers, permission has not been granted for the match on Wednesday at the Chinnaswamy Stadium. The committee has also given a detailed report, Commissioner Singh stated. The Bengaluru City Police Commissioner had already issued a 17-point advisory outlining mandatory safety measures. The committee verified whether these points have been complied with and submitted its findings to the government. Police sources stated the stadium gates were too narrow to handle large crowds, especially with Virat Kohli expected to attend. Sources further revealed that in a last-ditch effort, Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) President Venkatesh Prasad met with state Home Minister G. Parameshwara, pleading for an exception, but authorities stood firm. Parameshwara announced on Monday that a committee was formed to inspect and assess whether the Chinnaswamy Stadium is fit to host the Vijay Hazare Trophy cricket match. The minister chaired a meeting at the Vidhana Soudha with officials from the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) and senior police officers to discuss arrangements for the upcoming match. Parameshwara announced on Monday that a committee was formed to inspect and assess whether the Chinnaswamy Stadium is fit to host the Vijay Hazare Trophy cricket match. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Notably, 11 people were killed in a stampede near the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru during the Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) victory celebrations on June 4. Article Source: IANS
T20 World Cup: Australia vice-captain Tahlia McGrath has candidly acknowledged she is navigating the most challenging stretch of her international career, conceding a loss of confidence following a disappointing World Cup campaign. For the first time in eight years, Australia finished a global tournament without lifting either the ODI or T20 World Cup trophy, bowing out of last months ODI World Cup in the semi-finals against eventual champions India. The team will next regroup in February for a home multi-format series against India, before turning attention to the T20 World Cup in England in June. McGraths personal journey has mirrored the teams challenges. The 30-year-old endured a lean tournament, managing just 69 runs at an average of 13.75 in a competition where her opportunities with both bat and ball were limited. Reflecting on that period, she admitted the toll it took. Cricket's a pretty brutal game, and it's very much based around confidence. And when it's not going your way, the world gets pretty big on you. I definitely underperformed and felt the pressure a bit, McGrath was quoted as saying by ESPNCricinfo. Asked whether this represented the toughest phase of her career, McGrath did not shy away from the assessment. Probably. I think you add captaincy into that, you add time away from home. And, obviously, when you lose a World Cup, it's pretty hard to get over as well. It's been a challenging time. As much as I was doing everything possible to get us playing some finals cricket (in the WBBL), I was hanging out for a bit of a break, she said. Since 2022, McGrath has frequently deputised for Alyssa Healy, leading Australia on 15 occasions. Alongside Ashleigh Gardner, she is widely regarded as a leading contender to take over the captaincy once Healy steps aside. Yet McGraths openness about her form struggles highlights a player reassessing both her role and readiness. In a move reflecting that need for reset, McGrath chose not to nominate for next months Womens Premier League in India. Instead, she has opted for time at home with South Australia ahead of the upcoming international schedule. Since 2022, McGrath has frequently deputised for Alyssa Healy, leading Australia on 15 occasions. Alongside Ashleigh Gardner, she is widely regarded as a leading contender to take over the captaincy once Healy steps aside. Yet McGraths openness about her form struggles highlights a player reassessing both her role and readiness. Also Read: Live Cricket Score While she remains committed to the teams needs, McGrath has not ruled out a return to those positions. I'm a very team-first person and love being in the XI and contributing. I haven't quite nailed that No.7 spot, so I probably need to go away and do a bit of work on that and make that my own first of all. Then once I can do that, try and get myself up the order, she added. Article Source: IANS
Delhi Vs Andhra Vijay Hazare Trophy Match To Be Held Behind Closed Doors: Report
Andhra Vijay Hazare Trophy: As the Indian cricket star Virat Kohli is expected to make a comeback to domestic cricket, targeting the Vijay Hazare Trophy (VHT) 2025-26 for Delhi, but fans will not get a chance to witness the batting stalwart playing, as Delhis first-round match against Andhra at M Chinnaswamy Stadium will be held behind closed doors. As per the ESPNcricinfo report, the Karnataka government is set to issue an order to the KSCA to stage matches behind closed doors, with the BCCI's Centre of Excellence to be a back-up venue in case police permission isn't forthcoming for matches at the Chinnaswamy. The KSCA previously suggested opening two stands to the public, with a capacity of 2000-3000 spectators if fully utilised. However, the government strongly opposed this plan, citing potential security and compliance issues, while work on resolving these concerns is still in progress. The state government aims to avoid chaos around the venue during the holiday season, considering the prominence of the players involved. The availability of Kohli and Rishabh Pant for the first two matches previously led the KSCA to shift the venue from Alur to Chinnaswamy to address logistical issues. The BCCIs Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru has become a vital hub for Indian cricket, providing top-tier infrastructure and facilities focused on developing players. Hosting numerous domestic matches creates an excellent environment for both young and seasoned players to hone their skills. Should Delhis matches be held at the CoE, it will be Kohlis first competitive appearance there, making it a memorable experience for him and his teammates. The state government aims to avoid chaos around the venue during the holiday season, considering the prominence of the players involved. The availability of Kohli and Rishabh Pant for the first two matches previously led the KSCA to shift the venue from Alur to Chinnaswamy to address logistical issues. Also Read: Live Cricket Score According to BCCI rules, centrally contracted players must participate in domestic tournaments when they are not on international duty. In line with this requirement, Kohli will play in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, bringing valuable experience and leadership to the Delhi team. Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant will lead the team as captain during the tournament, while Kohli will serve in a senior role within the squad. Article Source: IANS
Australia prepare for life without 'shattered' Nathan Lyon
It'll be pretty long, Australia coach Andrew McDonald says of Nathan Lyon's road back after veteran offspinner undergoes hamstring surgery
Ashes: Rob Key To Investigate Allegations Of Players Having a Drinking Stag-do Before Adelaide Test
Boxing Day Test: England cricket team's managing director Rob Key defended the teams four-day trip to Noosa, taken between the second and third Ashes Tests, and stated that the board is investigating claims that their travel was turned into a beer-filled stag party. Away from the field, Englands mid-series trip to Noosa, a well-heeled coastal resort in Queensland, has also come under the microscope. The squad headed there for four nights after their heavy defeat at the Gabba, describing it as a chance to reset rather than a break for leisure. Head coach Brendon McCullum, who organised the visit, described it as excellent and believed it would leave the team refreshed ahead of the third Test. Key did not join the squad in Noosa and initially said he had no concerns about the players conduct. However, following the loss in Adelaide, reports emerged likening the trip to a stag do. He said he would investigate the claims to establish whether any action was necessary. If there's things where people are saying that our players went out and drank excessively, then of course we'll be looking into that. Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol for an international cricket team is not something that I'd expect to see at any stage, and it would be a fault not to look into what happened there. But from everything that I've heard so far, they were very well behaved, Key told reporters at the MCG on Tuesday. I've read what's been written in the last day or so, and if it goes into where they're drinking lots and it's a stag do, all that type of stuff, that's completely unacceptable. I'm not a drinker. I think a drinking culture doesn't help anyone in any stretch whatsoever. If there's things where people are saying that our players went out and drank excessively, then of course we'll be looking into that. Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol for an international cricket team is not something that I'd expect to see at any stage, and it would be a fault not to look into what happened there. But from everything that I've heard so far, they were very well behaved, Key told reporters at the MCG on Tuesday. Also Read: Live Cricket Score What was dubbed as a potentially era-defining tour has instead prompted another phase of reflection for English cricket, after consecutive defeats in Perth, Brisbane, and Adelaide. With the Ashes already lost, England's immediate goal is to minimise the damage, starting with the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Article Source: IANS
Sharjah Warriorz survive low-scoring thriller to beat Abu Dhabi Knight Riders
Sharjah Warriorz held their nerve to clinch a dramatic four-wicket win over Abu Dhabi Knight Riders at the Zayed Cricket Stadium on Monday. They moved to six points, and with two games to spare, have set up a tight race for the remaining playoff spots in DP World ILT20 Season 4. The Warriorz Taskin Ahmed and Wasim Akram reduced the Knight Riders to 10/4, with Adil Rashid's three wickets later restricting them to 134/9 despite Sherfane Rutherford's 44 off 36. Then, James Rews unbeaten 42 off 29 balls with four fours and a six, coupled with Razas 28 off 25 tookthem to the victory on the final ball. In the second innings, Jason Holder got the early wicket of Johnson Charles (0 off 6) in the second over, and Monank Patel (7 off 8) soon followed in the third over, bowled by Ajay Kumar. Tom Kohler-Cadmore (30 off 35) then hit three boundaries in a single over. Charles, along with Tom Abell (13 off 13), guided the Warriorz to 38/2 by the end of the power play. Olly Stone delivered a breakthrough for the Knight Riders by removing Tom Abell, while Sunil Narine kept Kohler-Cadmore and Sikandar Raza in check. The Warriorz eventuallyreached 58/3 at the halfway stage of the chase. Sunil Narine finally broke the resistance by trapping Kohler-Cadmore LBW. His 35-run stand off 32 balls with Raza kept the Warriorz in the chase. James Rew then struck a pair of boundaries off Andre Russell in the 14th over and continued to rotate the strike alongside Raza as the Warriorz reached91/4 after 15 overs. Raza and Rew kept the scoreboard ticking to complete a 57-run partnership off 35 balls. He was then dismissed in the 18th over for Ajay Kumars second scalp, after which skipper Holder bowled a superb penultimate over to leave 12 required off the final six balls. However, Rew and Adil Rashid saw outthe final over to seal an important win. Earlier, Taskin Ahmed and Wasim Akram ripped through the top order as the Knight Riders suffered an early collapse. Taskin struck in the opening over to remove Phil Salt (4 off 6), before Wasim trapped Brandon McMullen (0 off 3) LBW in the second. Taskin then added Alex Hales (5 off 5) to histally in the third over. Wasim followed it up with a historic wicket maiden in the fourth over the first maiden by a UAE player in league history to remove Liam Livingstone for a duck. This left the Knight Riders reeling at 10/4, before Alishan Sharafu (19 off 25) and Sherfane Rutherford took them to 28/4 at the end ofthe powerplay. The Knight Riders continued to struggle in the middle overs after spin was added to the bowling equation. Sikandar Raza broke the SharafuRutherford stand of 38 runs in 33 balls when he dismissed the UAE batter. Despite a brief counterattack from Rutherford, the Knight Riders limped to 51/5 at the end of 10 overs. Unmukt Chand (24 off 22) then joined Rutherford in the middle and stitched together a much-needed stand of 52 runs in 45 balls to steady the Knight Riders. Rutherford shifted gears in the 15th over with a six and two boundaries off Nathan Sowter. The pair added vital runs through the middle, taking the totalto 95/5, before the momentum was checked in the 17th over when Dwaine Pretorius removed the set Rutherford. Adil Rashid sent Unmukt Chand packing in the 18th over, but Andre Russell and Jason Holder provided a late surge with a couple of sixes each, hammering 25 runs off Taskin in the 19th over. Rashid returned in the final over to dismiss Holder (14 off 6) and Russell (18 off 12), finishing with a decisive three-wicket haul as the Knight Riders were restricted to 134/9. Match Summary Sharjah Warriorz beat Abu Dhabi Knight Riders by four wickets Abu Dhabi Knight Riders 134/9 in 20 overs (Sherfane Rutherford 44, Unmukt Chand 24, Adil Rashid 3 for 18, Wasim Akram 2 for 12, Taskin Ahmed 2 for 41) Also Read: Live Cricket Score Sharjah Warriorz 135/6 in 20 overs (James Rew 42 not out, Tom Kohler-Cadmore 30, Sikandar Raza 28, Ajay Kumar 2 for 29, Jason Holder 2 for 25) Player of the match: Adil Rashid
A brutal game: Tahlia McGrath opens up on form struggle
The allrounder opted not to nominate for the WPL and will focus on preparing for the multi-format series against India
