IPL 2026: Its My First Hundred And Came At The Right Time When The Team Needed It, Says Iyer
Lucknow Super Giants: Punjab Kings skipper Shreyas Iyer said his maiden IPL hundred came at the right time when the team needed it, as his unbeaten 101 guided the side to a sevenwicket win over Lucknow Super Giants and kept their IPL 2026 playoffs hopes alive after six successive defeats. Im ecstatic to be honest. Its my first hundred and came at the right time when the team needed it. We won eventually after six consecutive losses. Its a great positive and just hoping to support MI tomorrow, Iyer said after being named Player of the Match. The win has lifted PBKS to fourth on the points table, and their fate now hinges on the Rajasthan Royals clash with the Mumbai Indians. If RR win, Punjab are out; if MI prevail, Kolkata Knight Riders could still overtake PBKS on net run rate with a big win over the now eliminated Delhi Capitals. If all works well in their favour, PBKS will face Sunrisers Hyderabad in the Eliminator clash in New Chandigarh on Wednesday. On his batting approach, Iyer, who became the third PBKS captain to hit a century after KL Rahul and Adam Gilchrist, said, It's a surreal feeling when you finish off the game and score a century. All the batsmen dream of that. Today was one of the days when I felt super. I was in a great mindspace. I knew what I wanted, knew how the wicket was playing. Kinda reading the situation and how the wicket was playing helped me to score my runs, and the partnership was crucial. That creates the momentum in the game, and just to win it from there, I'm elated. On sharing a 140-run stand with Prabhsimran Singh, who made 69, Iyer said, I know if I give myself some time in the middle and time the ball as much as possible rather than getting on top of the ball and trying to score off a good ball. I feel it's necessary for me to stay out there as much as possible because then the runs keep coming. Prabh - the way he took on the bowlers, it takes two to tango. He seriously showed us what he's capable of. He was temperamentally active, and the communication we had in the middle was sensational. On how PBKS regrouped ahead of this clash to break a losing streak, Iyer said, We didn't say anything, just kept it simple. Rather than having meetings, putting more pressure on the boys. You kinda get lost in the previous losses when you discuss a lot. It's important that you let them be. Free flow of mind is required in crucial matches. You don't want to make them overthink in pressure situations. Today I literally told Ricky, 'let's not do any team meetings. Let's just head to the ground and do our rituals, which we've been doing consistently, and we could see the result. Iyer then praised his bowlers for pulling the game back. Elated by their performance. Even though we went 16 off the first over. Just to get the game back towards us, Azmat bowled brilliantly. The first over, which he bowled, got a wicket and saved those crucial runs. Its all about momentum in this situation, and just to get the game back, especially Yuzi, the way he came back and restricted runs. He got the crucial wicket of Rishabh Pant. Kudos to him; he leaked a lot of runs in the last game, but he showed his character. Coach Ricky Ponting lauded his captains maturity. We've done it the hard way, let's put it that way. We've done what we needed to do today. Sloppy in the field again, gave them 20 more runs than they should've got. Pretty clinical chase, especially being in trouble early. The captain he's done that all season. That's his first IPL century tonight. We'll celebrate that, and then we'll sit around and wait for those results tomorrow. There's a reason I spent as much money at the auction as I did a couple of years ago. He's a ripping guy, a very mature player now, and a very mature leader. More often than not, he keeps his emotions in check on the field. The respect he has from his players is second to none. The moment he stands in front of the group and speaks, not a single eye ball leaves a single word he says. Delighted to work with him. Really happy with the season he's had. Great to see him back in the Indian one-day team. I really think there's a bigger, brighter future for him in the Indian T20 team as well. The level of cricket we played in the first half was a level I've never seen before. And then we just made some crucial errors at different times in the last six games. Speaking about Prabhsimran, Ponting said, A terrific player. It's probably only been the last couple of years that he has realised how good he is. He and Priyansh have been outstanding for us the last couple of seasons. Seeing him play a mature innings tonight in a good run chase will do him a world of good. We'll try to get the boys together and watch it (the RR-MI game). I really think there's a bigger, brighter future for him in the Indian T20 team as well. The level of cricket we played in the first half was a level I've never seen before. And then we just made some crucial errors at different times in the last six games. Also Read: Live Cricket Score But at the same time, you know batting gets easier in the second innings at Ekana. Sometimes, ideas without accountability are the hardest thing to do. As a team, we want to look at the positives Definitely a lot of positives. Its been a long season, we promise to come back stronger next year. Article Source: IANS
Head Coach Sarfaraz Blasts Pakistan Players After Test Series Defeat To Bangladesh
Telecom Asia Sport: Pakistan's abysmal 2-0 whitewash in Bangladesh has left head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed fuming with anger at his players in a team meeting after the Sylhet defeat, a news report has claimed. Pakistan suffered a second successive 2-0 clean sweep at the hands of Bangladesh, following their defeat at home by the same margin two years ago. After the 58-run defeat in the second Test, head coach Sarfaraz blasted the players for their individual game and scoring runs for themselves, and that happened before a full squad meeting with manager Naveed Cheema and other staff present, sources told Telecom Asia Sport on Saturday. Players should play for the team and not for themselves, Sarfaraz was quoted as saying to his players, especially to the batters. None of the Pakistan batters could score 200 runs in the four innings of the series, with young debutant Azan Awais the only one to score a century. It is noted that players were playing for themselves. It is good to give individual performance, but it should help the team and not the individual, the head coach told the players. The senior players have failed to take responsibility. Look at other teams and their progress while our team is going backwards, he said. Sarfaraz, sources told www.telecomasia.net, was not happy with skipper Shan Masood's passive captaincy and lack of decision-making on the field, especially his reluctance to take reviews when the decision could have gone in Pakistan's favour. Pakistan did not take a review of Mushfiaur Rahim and Litton Das gloving the ball. Das, out on 52, went on to score a brave 126, which helped Bangladesh recover from a precarious 116-6 to 278, adding a big 162 runs for the last four wickets. Sarfaraz, sources told www.telecomasia.net, was not happy with skipper Shan Masood's passive captaincy and lack of decision-making on the field, especially his reluctance to take reviews when the decision could have gone in Pakistan's favour. Also Read: Live Cricket Score However, Shan Masood is certain to be removed as captain after suffering 12 defeats in 16 Tests. Middle-order batter Agha Salman is tipped to be the favourite to become the next Test skipper. Article Source: IANS
Shreyas Iyer's maiden IPL ton keeps Punjab Kings in the hunt for playoff spot
The PBKS skipper helped break their six-match losing streak, as they sealed a chase of 200 against a depleted Lucknow Super Giants to breach the top four on the points table again
IPL 2026: Iyers Unbeaten 101 Helps PBKS Keep Playoffs Hopes Alive, Beat LSG By Seven Wickets (ld)
BRSABV Ekana Cricket Stadium: Captain Shreyas Iyer struck his maiden IPL century to guide Punjab Kings to a sevenwicket win over Lucknow Super Giants and break their six-game losing streak to keep their playoff hopes alive in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2027 at the BRSABV Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow on Saturday. In response to LSGs 196/6, Punjab hunted down the target in 18 overs, with Iyer unbeaten on 101 off 51 balls, studded with 11 fours and five sixes coming at a strike-rate of 198.04. Apart from wowing the crowd with his sublime timing, strong pick-up of deliveries and bottom-handed shots, Iyer also shared a crucial 140-run stand with Prabhsimran Singh, who hit 69 off 39 balls. The win has lifted PBKS to fourth on the points table, and their fate now hinges on the Rajasthan Royals clash with the Mumbai Indians. If RR win, Punjab are out; if MI prevail, Kolkata Knight Riders could still overtake PBKS on net run rate with a big win over the now eliminated Delhi Capitals. If all works well in their favour, PBKS will face Sunrisers Hyderabad in the Eliminator clash in New Chandigarh on Wednesday. The chase began dramatically as Priyansh Arya fell first ball to Mohammed Shami, caught on the pull for a golden duck. Cooper Connolly counterattacked with four boundaries in the second over, before being castled by Mohammed Shami and leaving PBKS at 22/2 in 2.2 overs. Iyer joined Prabhsimran and the pair steadied the innings. Iyer struck successive fours off Mohsin Khan and Shami, while Prabhsimran found his rhythm with inventive strokes and used the bowlers pace to his advantage. The partnership blossomed after Power-play as Prabhsimran dropped on 20 by Pant off Arjun Tendulkar, and got his fifty in 28 balls. Iyer, meanwhile, cut and drove with authority to get his fifty in 33 balls. The boundaries flowed freely before Arjun trapped Prabhsimran lbw for 69. But Iyer pressed on, smashing three sixes in one Shami over to all but seal the contest. Fittingly, Iyer launched a slower ball from Mohsin over cow corner to complete his maiden IPL hundred and clinch an important victory for PBKS. For Iyer, the century was a moment of relief and joy - helmet off, arms aloft, as he was embraced by teammates over ending a six-game losing streak and PBKS playoffs hopes still very much alive. Even as PBKS rejoiced in the glow of a much-needed victory in a must-win clash, LSGs tenth defeat of the season also confirmed that they will finish at the bottom of the IPL 2026 points table. Previously, riding on Josh Ingliss fluent 72 off 44 balls and Abdul Samads unbeaten 37 off 20 deliveries, LSG posted 196/6, though it looked like they finished well short of a par score. Inglis didn't see much of the strike in the first few overs, as he lost partners from the other end. But he slowly came into his own to add 49 runs for the third wicket and shared a 65-run partnership with Rishabh Pant. Inglis came into his own during the middle overs to hit nine fours and two sixes in all in his knock, coming at a strike-rate of 163.64. At 147/4 in 15 overs, LSG were primed for a big finish, but losing Inglis was huge for them, though Samad did show some fight with a late cameo. For PBKS, Yuzvendra Chahal and Marco Jansen were the standout bowlers with two scalps each. The innings began briskly for LSG, though they suffered early setbacks. Arshin Kulkarni and Nicholas Pooran fell cheaply, leaving the hosts two down inside the Power-play. Inglis did not see much of the strike initially, but once it had settled, he counterattacked with authority. Badoni joined Inglis and the pair steadied the innings before the former was stumped off Chahal for 43. Inglis then found another partner in Pant, and together they pushed the score past 100. With Inglis striking cleanly through the middle overs, LSG looked assured for a big total, though they lost Pant for 26. But Inglis dismissal checked their momentum, leaving Samad to shoulder the responsibility in the death overs after Mukul Choudhary fell cheaply. Samad rose to the occasion with crisp strokes through point and midwicket to take LSG past the 190-mark, which was inadequate to stop Iyer and PBKS from getting a clinical win. Badoni joined Inglis and the pair steadied the innings before the former was stumped off Chahal for 43. Inglis then found another partner in Pant, and together they pushed the score past 100. With Inglis striking cleanly through the middle overs, LSG looked assured for a big total, though they lost Pant for 26. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Lucknow Super Giants 196/6 in 20 overs (Josh Inglis 72, Ayush Badoni 43; Yuzvendra Chahal 2-25, Marco Jansen 2-33) lost to Punjab Kings 200/3 in 18 overs (Shreyas Iyer 101 not out, Prabhsimran Singh 69; Mohammed Shami 2-45, Arjun Tendulkar 1-36) by seven wickets Article Source: IANS
Tribe shows his mettle as England Lions battle back
Opener digs in for unbeaten 88 after Ackerman stars with 173 for South Africa A
KKR continue to believe with elimination possible before their game
KKR take on DC, at home on Sunday, with playoff qualification on the line - though they will be knocked out before they play if RR beat MI
Indian Premier League: At the start of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, Mumbai Indians banked on seasoned players Rohit Sharma and Jasprit Bumrah to carry them towards their sixth title -- especially the India pacer, who had played a key role in the country's triumph in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup earlier this year. But that did not happen. Rohit Sharma, the most successful batter and captain in the IPL, was expected to provide MI with great starts and started off his campaign with a fifty in their opening match. But as the five-time title winners get ready for their final league match against the Rajasthan Royals at the Wankhede Stadium, Rohit Sharma and Bumrah have had inconsistent campaigns, contributing to the team's failure. On Saturday, Mumbai Indians head coach Mahela Jayawardene spoke about what has been happening with both veteran players. He said both have struggled with niggles and injuries, which have hampered their performances. Rohit missed a number of matches due to injury concerns and has amassed just 283 runs in 8 matches. The former MI skipper was diagnosed with a hamstring injury, which hampered his progress. There have also been instances when the legend has been relegated to the bench and used as an impact sub. Jayawardene said the playing XI is decided by taking various factors into consideration and what will work for the team on that given day. He added that Rohit Sharma understands that principle and accepts it. To be honest, I don't think about the Indian team or what their requirements are when I am assembling a team for the Mumbai Indians. I set it up, and Rohit understands that he is a team player. He understands what is required for the Mumbai Indians, and we go about it. Yes, he had a hamstring injury. We gave him the time that he needed to recover, and then he came back. We were cautious even with his batting, the way he was running, because he had to adapt slowly, gradually coming back into it, said Jayawardene. About Bumrah, Jayawardene said the pacer did not get enough time to recover after the ICC Men's T20 World Cup in February -March this year. Bumrah has managed just four wickets in 13 matches for the Mumbai Indians. To be honest, I don't think about the Indian team or what their requirements are when I am assembling a team for the Mumbai Indians. I set it up, and Rohit understands that he is a team player. He understands what is required for the Mumbai Indians, and we go about it. Yes, he had a hamstring injury. We gave him the time that he needed to recover, and then he came back. We were cautious even with his batting, the way he was running, because he had to adapt slowly, gradually coming back into it, said Jayawardene. Also Read: Live Cricket Score About Bumrah's reduced pace in the early stages of the campaign, Jayawardene said that it was because Bumrah was going through a gradual build-up. Article Source: IANS
Born Into Cricket, Calm Under Pressure, 17-year-old Kerala Girl Steps Into Umpire's Coat
Trichur District Cricket Association EC: When 17-year-old Namrata Vinoth walks into the Athreya Cricket Ground in Kerala's Thrissur on Sunday morning, it will not just be another local cricket match. For the teenager with cricket running deep through her veins, it will mark the beginning of a brand new journey, as a cricket umpire. Namrata will officiate in her 'debut' match between the Trichur District Cricket Association EC Committee/Selectors and the Palakkad District Association EC Committee/Selectors, after clearing the written examination in umpiring. For most teenagers, such a moment could be nerve-racking. But Namrata appears remarkably unruffled. What's the big deal? she asks with a laugh. I know being tense only complicates things. I prefer to stay cool and calm so I can perform better. My mother's feelings are understandable. Her mother, however, admits she is far from calm. Yes, I'm a bit tense because I know what happens in a cricket match, says Niketha with a smile. Perhaps Namrata is too young to fully realise what a real match situation can be like. One thing that makes me happy is that she isn't nervous. Niketha knows the pressures of cricket better than most. A former Kerala women's cricketer, she later rose to become Chairperson of the Kerala Women's Selection Committee and also led the South Zone selection panel. The cricketing pedigree in the family does not end there. Namrata's aunt, Vilasini Nair, her father's sister, also played for Kerala and now serves as a Southern Railway coach-cum-player, besides being a member of the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association selection committee. Yet, despite the formidable cricketing lineage surrounding her, Namrata carries none of the weight of expectation. Friends describe her as cheerful and carefree, someone equally at ease on stage as on the cricket field. Yet, despite the formidable cricketing lineage surrounding her, Namrata carries none of the weight of expectation. Also Read: Live Cricket Score But this time, the applause will give way to appeals, close calls and raised voices and right in the middle of it all will stand a composed teenager quietly beginning her own chapter in Kerala cricket. Article Source: IANS
Biryukov clinches maiden Challenger singles title
Assistant Coach Ian Bell: Delhi Capitals assistant coach Ian Bell hailed KL Rahuls influence on and off the field, adding that he was delighted to see him become the vice-captain of the Indian Test team again and that his efforts to bring a real shift in his T20 strike-rate have paid off. Rahul is DCs leading run-getter with 533 runs in 13 games at an average of 44.42 and a strike-rate of 171.93. Recently, Rahul replaced Rishabh Pant as Indias vice-captain in Tests for the one-off game against Afghanistan, to be played in New Chandigarh on June 6. Firstly, its great to see him become vice-captain again for India. I think the hard work hes put in through this. I disagree with that comment. I think you look at his strike rates this year, hes put in a real shift. Youre absolutely right in saying that hes a massively important player for us and for India as well. Hes brilliant in the dressing room. Take away the batting, as a human being, the way he speaks to the younger players, the way he is, the way he holds himself, the way he trains is first class. I think his strike rates have gone through the roof, and hes guaranteed to get another 500-run season. Hes been awesome for us, on and off the field, absolutely fantastic, said Bell in the pre-match press conference. Bell also praised the depth of Indian talent in the DC set-up. Its been great to see the amount of young talent coming through and dominating the style of play. Certainly, the modern-day player now, especially the guys at the top of the order, the fearless brand of cricket they play. As a franchise, weve tried to give opportunities to young players as well. Obviously, were here to win, as every team is, but its great to see the amount of talent in India and whats coming through. I know for a fact a lot of other countries around the world are jealous of the quality and talent coming through in this country. The IPL is a great platform for young Indian players, and its an exciting future ahead, certainly in white-ball cricket. On Mitchell Starcs role within the squad, Bell explained that hes a great role model in the team, just like how Rahul is. No doubt when Mitchell Starc arrived, it certainly helped us just having somebody bowling at 140-plus. I think that does make any bowling attack slightly different, and that was a big impact for us. It would have been nice to have him from the first game, but the guys have trained hard and worked hard on their skills, whether its with the new ball or yorkers. Theyve been prepared, but we know its a ruthless tournament. If you get it wrong, you go. On Mitchell Starcs role within the squad, Bell explained that hes a great role model in the team, just like how Rahul is. No doubt when Mitchell Starc arrived, it certainly helped us just having somebody bowling at 140-plus. I think that does make any bowling attack slightly different, and that was a big impact for us. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The way he trains, I dont know if anyone watched him bowl last night, but he was at full tilt, running in, and it was a test for all our batters. As a coach, you want training to be a real challenge and played at a really high standard. I thought the way he trains is a great role model for all our young players to watch, as KL is, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Slower Balls Did Help Now And Then, But Its All In All A Good Wicket, Says Jansen
BRSABV Ekana Cricket Stadium: Punjab Kings leftarm seam-bowling all-rounder Marco Jansen described Lucknow Super Giants total of 196/6 as competitive, while noting that while slower balls had some effect, the surface overall at the BRSABV Ekana Cricket Stadium remained good for batting. Slower balls did help now and then, but its all in all a good wicket. Yeah, it felt like the oddball would hold a bit, but the older the ball got, it felt like a decent wicket to bat on. You had to be creative in terms of your changeups and stuff like that. Luckily, its a big field, so as a bowler, you have a lot to play with, Jansen said to broadcasters after the first innings ended. Jansen, who picked 2-33, admitted he was relieved to finally get back among the wickets. I am just happy to take a wicket after a long time. Nice feeling to contribute with the ball again for the team. Happy I put in a decent performance, he remarked. Asked about advice for the batting unit chasing 197, Jansen quipped, I think I should ask them for advice. No, I think the guys up top know what they have to do; they know what they do best. So let them just go out and have a good crack at it. Jansen, who picked 2-33, admitted he was relieved to finally get back among the wickets. I am just happy to take a wicket after a long time. Nice feeling to contribute with the ball again for the team. Happy I put in a decent performance, he remarked. Also Read: Live Cricket Score But they have been winless in their last six outings and need to win over LSG while hoping for other results to go in their favour to enter the last four stage and set up an Eliminator clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad at the New PCA Stadium in New Chandigarh on Wednesday. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Josh Inglis Top-scores With 72 As LSG Post 196/6 Against PBKS
BRSABV Ekana Cricket Stadium: Riding on Josh Ingliss fluent 72 off 44 balls and Abdul Samads unbeaten 37 off 20 deliveries, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) posted 196/6 against Punjab Kings in their final league clash of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the BRSABV Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow on Saturday. Inglis didn't see much of the strike in the first few overs, as he lost partners from the other end. But he slowly came into his own to add 49 runs for the third wicket and shared a 65-run partnership with Rishabh Pant. Inglis came into his own during the middle overs to hit nine fours and two sixes in all in his knock, coming at a strike-rate of 163.64. At 147/4 in 15 overs, LSG were primed for a big finish, but losing Inglis was huge for them. Though Samad did show some fight with a late cameo, LSG will reckon they ended at least 10-15 runs short of a par score on a good batting pitch. For PBKS, Yuzvendra Chahal and Marco Jansen were the standout bowlers with two scalps each, as the side needs to win this game and then hope RR lose to MI to enter the playoffs. The innings began briskly for LSG, though they suffered early setbacks. Arshin Kulkarni and Nicholas Pooran fell cheaply, leaving the hosts two down inside the Power-play. Inglis did not see much of the strike initially, but once it had settled, he counterattacked with authority. Badoni joined Inglis and the pair steadied the innings before the former was stumped off Chahal for 43. Inglis then found another partner in Pant, and together they pushed the score past 100. With Inglis striking cleanly through the middle overs, LSG looked assured for a big total, though they lost Pant for 26. But Inglis dismissal checked their momentum, leaving Samad to shoulder the responsibility in the death overs after Mukul Choudhary fell cheaply. Samad rose to the occasion with crisp strokes through point and midwicket to take LSG past the 190-mark. The question now is whether it will be enough for LSG to defend against PBKS, who must win to stay in playoff contention. LSG, already out of the race for the playoffs, will look to their bowlers to defend the total. But Inglis dismissal checked their momentum, leaving Samad to shoulder the responsibility in the death overs after Mukul Choudhary fell cheaply. Samad rose to the occasion with crisp strokes through point and midwicket to take LSG past the 190-mark. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Lucknow Super Giants 196/6 in 20 overs (Josh Inglis 72, Ayush Badoni 43; Yuzvendra Chahal 2-25, Marco Jansen 2-33) against Punjab Kings Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Mumbai Indians Rope In Lomror And Ahir As Replacements For De Kock And Bawa
DY Patil T20 Cup: Five-time champions Mumbai Indians (MI) have signed Mahipal Lomror and Ruchit Ahir as replacements for Quinton de Kock and Raj Angad Bawa, who were previously ruled out of the remainder of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season due to various injuries. Wicketkeeper-batter de Kock sustained a tendon injury in his left wrist before MIs game against Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 29, while seam-bowling all-rounder Bawa suffered a ligament tear in his right thumb against Punjab Kings on May 14. Both players featured in only three matches for MI this season. Lomror, a lefthanded batting allrounder from Rajasthan, has played 40 IPL matches and previously represented Rajasthan Royals and Royal Challengers Bengaluru. He was also a part of the Delhi Capitals and Gujarat Titans squads but did not get a game. He now joins MI for Rs 50 lakh. Wicketkeeper-batter de Kock sustained a tendon injury in his left wrist before MIs game against Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 29, while seam-bowling all-rounder Bawa suffered a ligament tear in his right thumb against Punjab Kings on May 14. Both players featured in only three matches for MI this season. Also Read: Live Cricket Score MI are currently at ninth spot on the points table with eight points from 12 games and have already been eliminated from the playoffs race. They will look to sign off on a high in front of their home crowd when they face the Rajasthan Royals at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Sunday afternoon. A tenth defeat, though, would leave MI at the ignominy of finishing at the bottom spot of the IPL 2026 table. Article Source: IANS
Atmosphere In Team Positive, But Inconsistency Has Hurt Delhi Capitals, Says Ian Bell
Kolkata Knight Riders: Delhi Capitals assistant coach Ian Bell said the mood in the camp remains upbeat despite the highstakes clash against Kolkata Knight Riders in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 to be played at the Eden Gardens on Sunday evening. At the same time, Bell admitted that consistency has been the missing link in their campaign. DC, currently at eighth spot with 12 points, must not only get a big win over KKR, but also rely on favorable outcomes from other remaining matches. Weve had a couple of down days, and the guys have trained really well yesterday. The spirits are good. Obviously, we know theres a big game tonight and a big game before us tomorrow. Were doing everything we can at the moment, training and preparation, just to win our next game. I think thats the important thing. Weve got to turn up here in the right attitude to get a win tomorrow. But the atmosphere around the group is brilliant. Certainly through the playing group, theres some really good characters that have stuck together through some highs and lows, so its in a positive way, said Bell in the pre-match press conference. On facing KKR, who are in the midst of a resurgence in the second half of the season, Bell said, Another class team, isnt it? Obviously, were on the wrong end of a bad result at home against KKR. We know, and Ive worked with the likes of Finn Allen, and we know the qualities they have with Narine. All the way through their team is world-class players, so we know we have to turn up tomorrow and put in a really good performance, probably one of our best performances of the season so far. Bell further admitted that inconsistency has hurt DC and felt it's an area they can look to improve upon in the 2027 season. I think most teams will say that, the teams that arent in the top four are down to consistency. I think weve proven this season that we can score 265 and then follow that up by being bowled out for 70. We couldnt defend 265 as well with the ball. So there have been times when weve been brilliant, and then there have been times when we havent been good enough. We know in the IPL, when you have your opportunities against these teams, you have to take them, and I think thats probably where we have to be honest and say we havent taken those key moments. We lost the game against GT off the last ball and, as I said, the game against Punjab, where we scored 265 and didnt defend it. You turn those into wins, and suddenly, if we win tomorrow, were on 18 points and looking at the top two. So the margins are so small in IPL, and thats why, as a coach and as a player, you want to be in this league because youre in the highest pressure against the best players in the world, with the biggest fan base and the best stadiums. We lost the game against GT off the last ball and, as I said, the game against Punjab, where we scored 265 and didnt defend it. You turn those into wins, and suddenly, if we win tomorrow, were on 18 points and looking at the top two. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I think at times weve been a bit guilty of not seeing the game through. As I said, two different results with fine margins, and were suddenly guaranteed top four. But you have to be ruthless in those opportunities, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
Sooryavanshi's stunning 93 takes RR closer to IPL playoffs
After a slow start, Sooryavanshi brought out the fireworks to practically make a mockery of a chase of 221
IPL 2026: RCBs Bethell Ruled Out Due To Finger Injury, To Return Home For Further Assessment
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Royal Challengers Bengalurus batting all-rounder Jacob Bethell has been ruled out of the remainder of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 after sustaining an injury to his left ring finger during the match against Punjab Kings and will now return home for further assessment. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed the development in an official statement, saying that they will also assess the extent of injury picked up by Bethell and whether he will be fit in time to play Englands first Test against New Zealand, to be played on June 4 at Lords. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has agreed with Royal Challengers Bangalore that top-order batter Jacob Bethell will return to the UK after sustaining a left ring finger injury while playing in the Indian Premier League. He will be fully assessed and monitored by the England Mens medical team on his return to determine his availability for selection for the Rothesay first Test against New Zealand at Lords, starting on Thursday 4 June, it further said. Bethell, who had partnered Virat Kohli at the top of the order in recent weeks in Phil Salts absence, had struggled for runs amassing only 96 runs in seven games. He also sat out of RCBs last league stage match against Sunrisers Hyderabad due to the same injury, as Venkatesh Iyer opened the batting in his absence. He will be fully assessed and monitored by the England Mens medical team on his return to determine his availability for selection for the Rothesay first Test against New Zealand at Lords, starting on Thursday 4 June, it further said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Defending champions RCB have qualified for the playoffs and will take on Gujarat Titans in the Qualifier 1 at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala on May 26. The winner will directly seal their slot in the final set to happen on May 31 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Toughest Characters Overcome Pain And Adversity, Says Nayar On Chakaravarthy
Indian Premier League: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) head coach Abhishek Nayar lauded wrist spinner Varun Chakravarthys commitment to playing for the franchise despite being hit with injuries, adding that the toughest characters in the game always find a way to overcome pain and adversity. Chakravarthy picked up a hairline fracture in his foot after being struck by a ball during the clash against the Delhi Capitals and has been playing with discomfort. But with him bowling in obvious discomfort, a debate broke out over his continued participation and questioned whether the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had done enough to protect him from being overplayed in the ten-team tournament. I do not think my words will do justice to it. For him to go through injury, endure a difficult start to the season, and then come back into form is a testament to how strong he is as a character. He has already broken quite a few bones during this tournament, specifically two fingers, and now his toe. I always say the toughest characters learn to overcome pain and adversity, and that is exactly what Varun is. He is someone who is highly motivated and feels very deeply for the franchise, too. He has been an integral part of the team, and I think he understands that. He is very emotional when it comes to this team and everyone associated with it. That is the thought process behind his wanting to continue rather than forcing himself to do so. Sometimes players are not keen to push through, but he has been very keen because of the love he has for the city and the franchise, said Nayar in the pre-match press conference. On Angkrish Raghuvanshi being ruled out due to a concussion and finger fracture, Nayar admitted the void was difficult to fill when they take on the Delhi Capitals at the Eden Gardens on Sunday evening, with a slight hope to enter the playoffs. From the start of the season, setbacks are something we have become used to. It has been that kind of season, with some unfortunate injuries. He has been such an integral part of the side, not only with the bat but also as a wicketkeeper behind the stumps. We have not spoken much about it because that is how good he has been, but it is a difficult spot to fill. You cannot simply replace someone like that. However, we have players like Manish Pandey, who stepped up and did his job at number three. Similarly, this becomes an opportunity for someone else to step up. It is an opportunity for one of our young wicketkeepers to come in and do something special. I feel this tournament is all about opportunities, he added. Nayar also praised young pacer Saurabh Dubeys maturity in playing his first IPL season, especially after bowling a memorable spell against the Mumbai Indians. I think Saurabh has been tremendous. When he first came into our set-up, he was not originally part of the squad. I saw him bowl in the D.Y. Patil tournament, and he had a very good competition. He has not played a lot of domestic cricket this season, so when we decided to take a chance on him, all the coaches felt he was bowling really well. I think every player has a time and place for when he enters the tournament. Sometimes, for someone who has not played much domestic cricket or experienced the IPL extensively, it helps to observe enough before stepping into the competition. I have always believed destiny plays a huge role in such situations. Nayar also praised young pacer Saurabh Dubeys maturity in playing his first IPL season, especially after bowling a memorable spell against the Mumbai Indians. I think Saurabh has been tremendous. When he first came into our set-up, he was not originally part of the squad. I saw him bowl in the D.Y. Patil tournament, and he had a very good competition. Also Read: Live Cricket Score So, I think the timing was perfect, as it often is when things are meant to happen. Saurabh has been tremendous for us. He has shown a lot of maturity and bowled some very critical overs during the tournament. He should be very proud of what he has done, and everyone in the franchise is extremely proud of him as well, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
Bethell in doubt for Lord's Test as finger injury ends IPL stint
Batter has less than a fortnight to be ready for first Test of the summer after finger injury
The Bhrat Blind Cricket League: The Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI) held its 16th Annual General Meeting, bringing together state cricket associations from across the country in a landmark gathering that celebrated a historic World Cup triumph and unveiled the most ambitious chapter yet in Indian blind cricket the Bharat Blind Cricket League (BBCL) 2026. The headline moment of the AGM was the unveiling of the Bharat Blind Cricket League (BBCL) a mega competitive league slated for 2026 that promises to do for blind cricket what the IPL did for the mainstream game. Designed to dramatically expand the sport's reach, the BBCL aims to create a high-profile national platform, elevate player visibility, attract broader audiences, and unlock new sponsorship and media opportunities for athletes with visual impairment. The proposal was passed with unanimous support from all attending state members. The AGM was graced by Rahul Gupta, IAS, District Collector of Hingoli, who announced that Ganga Kadam, vice-captain of the Indian Women's Blind Cricket Team, has been appointed Brand Ambassador for Hingoli Yellow Gold. Maharashtra's turmeric capital now has a World Cup hero as its face. An appointment letter was formally presented to her at the AGM, to a resounding reception from all members present. Dr. Mahantesh Ghativalappa Kivadasannavar, Chairman, Cricket Association for the Blind in India, expressed, At CABI, we have always believed that blindness is not a barrier to excellence, and our players prove it every single day. The Bhrat Blind Cricket League 2026 is our next leap forward a platform that will inspire millions and cement India's place as the global home of blind cricket. The AGM was graced by Rahul Gupta, IAS, District Collector of Hingoli, who announced that Ganga Kadam, vice-captain of the Indian Women's Blind Cricket Team, has been appointed Brand Ambassador for Hingoli Yellow Gold. Maharashtra's turmeric capital now has a World Cup hero as its face. An appointment letter was formally presented to her at the AGM, to a resounding reception from all members present. Also Read: Live Cricket Score State association representatives presented updates on domestic tournaments, talent identification drives, and coaching camps painting a picture of a sport growing rapidly at the grassroots. Performance data from the prestigious Nagesh Trophy further underscored the rising quality and scale of domestic blind cricket competition across India. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: RR Rope In Emanjot Chahal As Replacement For Injured Ravi Singh
TATA Indian Premier League: Winner of the inaugural edition, Rajasthan Royals (RR), have signed Punjab leftarm spinner Emanjot Chahal as a replacement for wicketkeeperbatter Ravi Singh, who has been ruled out of the remainder of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 due to a hamstring injury. It is understood that Ravi sustained the injury while fielding in RRs clash against Delhi Capitals at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on May 17. Rajasthan Royals (RR) have signed Emanjot Chahal as a replacement for wicketkeeperbatter Ravi Singh, who has been ruled out of the remainder of TATA Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 due to a hamstring injury, the IPL said in a statement on Saturday. Emanjot, the 21-year-old allrounder from Patiala, has represented Punjab in domestic cricket. He boasts of a top score of 83 in firstclass cricket and has taken 11 wickets in three matches with his leftarm spin and will now join RR for a fee of INR 30 lakh. RR, meanwhile, will face fivetime champions Mumbai Indians in their final league stage match at the Wankhede Stadium on Sunday afternoon, with their playoff hopes hanging by a slim thread. A win will secure them a place in the Eliminator clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad as the fourthplaced team in the points table. Emanjot, the 21-year-old allrounder from Patiala, has represented Punjab in domestic cricket. He boasts of a top score of 83 in firstclass cricket and has taken 11 wickets in three matches with his leftarm spin and will now join RR for a fee of INR 30 lakh. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With KKRs fixture scheduled after their own, RR, currently at fourth spot on the points table with 14 points, will look to avoid permutations and beat MI to hold on to their current position. Earlier in the season, RR defeated MI by 27 runs in a raincurtailed clash in Guwahati, with Yashasvi Jaiswal hitting an unbeaten 77. Article Source: IANS
RR replace injured Ravi Singh with Emanjot Chahal
Ravi Singh played just one game this IPL and is out with a hamstring injury
KKR need a win against DC and a lot of luck to sneak into playoffs
KKR likely to pick rookie Tejasvi Dahiya as their keeper in place of Raghuvanshi who has been ruled out
It's simple for RR: win and seal the last playoffs spot
A loss would mean RR will have to hope KKR and PBKS lose their last league-stage games
IPL 2026: Jansen, Vyshak Return As PBKS Elect To Bowl Against LSG, No Marsh, Tendulkar Included
BRSABV Ekana Cricket Stadium: Marco Jansen and Vyshak Vijaykumar have come in for Punjab Kings as captain Shreyas Iyer won the toss and elected to bowl first against Lucknow Super Giants in a must-win Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 clash at the BRSABV Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow on Saturday. PBKS come into Saturdays clash after being winless in their last six outings, but still have a mathematical chance of making the playoffs if they beat LSG. They would also need to finish above Kolkata Knight Riders on net run rate (NRR), and hope Rajasthan Royals lose to Mumbai Indians on Sunday afternoon. PBKS had beaten LSG by 54 runs in the previous meeting between the two teams this season in New Chandigarh. After winning the toss, Iyer said, It is suddenly exciting (on being in a do-or-die situation). It's like a do-or-die game for us. I would rather do. So looking forward to the challenge. Never been in this situation before, as in the league table. But the boys are super excited. They're eagerly waiting to see how it turns out at the end of the day. LSG skipper Rishabh Pant said left-arm pace bowling all-rounder Arjun Tendulkar is making his debut for LSG, while Arshin Kulkarni also comes into the team, along with Mohammed Shami, especially with Mitchell Marsh not available. We would have bowled first as well. This wicket is good for cricket regardless of bowling or batting. This is one of the better batting wickets; it could be a high-scoring match. It's been a tough season, but at the same time, there has been a lot of learning, both for the team and personally. Id say sorry to the fans; they have come from all over UP. It's been tough going for us, but we'll give our 100 percent today. Playing XIs: Lucknow Super Giants: Josh Inglis, Arshin Kulkarni, Nicholas Pooran, Ayush Badoni, Rishabh Pant (wk), Abdul Samad, Mukul Choudhary, Arjun Tendulkar, Mohammed Shami, Prince Yadav, and Mohsin Khan Impact substitutes: Shahbaz Ahmed, Digvesh Rathi, M Siddharth, Himmat Singh, and Akash Singh Lucknow Super Giants: Josh Inglis, Arshin Kulkarni, Nicholas Pooran, Ayush Badoni, Rishabh Pant (wk), Abdul Samad, Mukul Choudhary, Arjun Tendulkar, Mohammed Shami, Prince Yadav, and Mohsin Khan Also Read: Live Cricket Score Impact substitutes: Harpreet Brar, Marcus Stoinis, Xavier Bartlett, Vishnu Vinod, and Pravin Dubey Article Source: IANS
New Zealand bat first at sunny Canterbury
Tahuhu and Patel in for Mair and Bates as visitors seek to square series
IPL 2026: Results Are Disappointing, But Vibe Remains Positive, Says LSGs Inglis Ahead PBKS Clash
Lucknow Super Giants: Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) wicketkeeperbatter Josh Inglis has conceded the results in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 have been disappointing for the franchise, but maintained that the atmosphere in the camp remains upbeat, with the focus firmly on finishing the tournament strongly. LSG never had the momentum in their favour in IPL 2026 and were knocked out early from the race to the playoffs. The side needs a win in their final league game against the Punjab Kings in Lucknow to sign off on a high and get themselves out of being wooden spooners in the points table. Its been nice to contribute individually, but its a shame how the season has unfolded. Its certainly not how we wanted to finish, but on a personal level, Ive enjoyed the challenge. As I said, the results are disappointing, but the vibe remains positive. We have a fantastic group of people here. The emphasis right now is on finishing the tournament strongly; we are still playing to win every game, and there is still plenty to play for in terms of pride and momentum, Inglis said in a pre-match chat with the broadcasters. Reflecting on his role at the top of the order, where hes made 194 runs in four innings, Inglis explained the demands of batting in the format. It is fairly simple, really. When you're batting at the top of the order in this format, you dont have much time to build an innings in the traditional sense; you have to get on with it as quickly as possible. On preparations and adaptability, Inglis added, You do your homework before the game, looking at previous matches played on this specific wicket and studying the opposition, but you must adapt quickly. You dont have a long window to settle in, so you must identify your best scoring options immediately while maintaining a really positive mindset. Reflecting on his role at the top of the order, where hes made 194 runs in four innings, Inglis explained the demands of batting in the format. It is fairly simple, really. When you're batting at the top of the order in this format, you dont have much time to build an innings in the traditional sense; you have to get on with it as quickly as possible. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Having played with many of these guys last year, Ive spent a lot of time around them, and I know their skill sets well. Thats definitely a bonus heading into tonight, but it doesn't guarantee success. Hopefully, I can turn that knowledge into a big score. Article Source: IANS
Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah Lays Foundation Stone For 2nd Largest Cricket Stadium In Bengaluru
Housing Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said on Saturday that the state government has taken a major step towards the overall development of Bengaluru by initiating the construction of an international-standard cricket stadium at Suryanagar near the city, which he added would boost sports, tourism, employment generation and economic growth. Speaking after inaugurating and laying foundation stones for multiple housing and infrastructure projects organised jointly by the Housing Department and the Karnataka Housing Board (KHB) at Suryagram, the Chief Minister added that the project reflects the state government's long-term development vision. Referring to the stadium in Gujarat with a seating capacity of around 90,000, Siddaramaiah said Karnataka's proposed stadium would become the second-largest in the country. He added that the stadium would help accelerate tourism growth, improve the local economy of surrounding villages, and create employment opportunities. The Chief Minister said the stadium would be constructed entirely using KHB funds without any financial assistance from the state government. He cited estimates suggesting that KHB could generate nearly Rs 20,000 crore through the sale of its vacant residential sites. The event included the foundation stone laying ceremony for the international cricket stadium, launch of the Chief Minister's Namma Mane housing scheme, foundation stone laying for the Suryashine and Surya Divine residential complexes, and symbolic distribution of housing sites to landowners who had provided land for the housing project. Siddaramaiah added that the Housing Department and KHB, which had so far focused mainly on housing construction, have now ventured into building an 80,000-seat international stadium, calling it a significant milestone in the state's development plans. He praised KHB Chairman and MLA Shivalingegowda and Housing Minister B.Z. Zameer Ahmed Khan for their efforts in taking up the project. Every individual dreams of having a roof over their head. With land prices rising sharply, KHB is providing affordable housing sites for poor and middle-class families, the Chief Minister said. Siddaramaiah also announced that administrative approval has been granted for the construction of key connecting roads in Jigani hobli to support the area's development, and officials have been instructed to begin the work soon. He said that the Housing Department has already distributed more than three lakh houses and residential sites across Karnataka during the current phase. Siddaramaiah also announced that administrative approval has been granted for the construction of key connecting roads in Jigani hobli to support the area's development, and officials have been instructed to begin the work soon. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, Home Minister G. Parameshwara, Housing Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan, KHB Chairman Shivalingegowda, Anekal MLA Shivanna, senior legislators T.B. Jayachandra and Krishnappa, former MP D.K. Suresh, Slum Development Board Chairman and MLA Abbayya, MLC Ramoji Gowda, and Guarantee Implementation Committee Chairman H.M. Revanna were among those present at the event. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Rajasthan Play For Playoff Spot, Mumbai For Pride In Wankhede Decider
Indian Premier League: Before the start of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, neither the Mumbai Indians nor the Rajasthan Royals would have imagined that their last match of the preliminary round at the Wankhede Stadium on Sunday would turn out to be so crucial not only for them but for the entire league. Both teams have everything to play for -- RR for the playoff spot, MI for their pride, and to avoid finishing at the bottom of the pile. The outcome of the match will decide the fourth spot in the playoffs -- if Rajasthan Royals, who are on 14 points, win the match, they will move to 16 and beyond the reach of Punjab Kings, who are on 13 and at maximum move to 15 points at most by winning their last league match against Lucknow Super Giants. Winning the match will also help five-time champions Mumbai Indians avoid the wooden spoon as they are currently tied with Lucknow Super Giants on eight points and have a better Net Run Rate. So, the last day of league action in the IPL 2026 will start with a make-or-break afternoon for Rajasthan Royals, who will be getting into it with their fortunes in their hands, with the two teams engaging in the final day game of the season. The winner of the inaugural edition of IPL has had an up-and-down season so far and are coming into Sunday's encounter after ending a three-match losing streak with a win over bottom-placed LSG. They had started their campaign with four wins, but then lost their way, posting indifferent results due to inconsistent performances. Rajasthans campaign has been powered by explosive starts at the top provided by the explosive Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Yashasvi Jaiswal, who have been in sensational form, piling up exactly 589 runs in just 293 balls at a strike rate exceeding 200. Sooryavanshi has already scored a century and blasted a 38-ball 93 in their previous match against LSG. Dhruv Jurel struck an unbeaten 53 in that match while Jaiswal led them in the absence of regular skipper Ryan Parag. Rajasthan Royals' fearless approach with the bat has consistently set the tone for their campaign, while Jofra Archer has spearheaded the bowling attack with 18 wickets, striking when it matters most. Sandeep Sharma and Dasun Shanaka will be crucial on Sunday as they will be with Yash Raj Punja coming into the game after claiming 2-38 against LSG. In contrast, the Mumbai Indians, meanwhile, have endured a season to forget. They made history by winning their season opener for the first time in 14 years, but things went downhill soon after as they lost matches in clusters. Their batting has lacked rhythm and consistency, though they have registered the most centuries by a team this season with three individual hundreds. The biggest contributing factor to their dismal campaign was the poor form of talismanic pacer Jasprit Bumrah, who had gone wicketless in his first five matches of the season. Though they have found performers like Ashwani Kumar, Raj Angad Bawa, and Raghu Sharma, they have failed to produce consistently good performances, making this campaign a tough one to digest. But MI now have one final chance to salvage some pride and end their season on a winning note while avoiding finishing at the bottom of the table. They will have to keep the rampaging Rajasthan Royals batters in check and then produce one more noteworthy performance with the bat, something that will help them leave the Wankhede on Sunday night with hope for the next season. With Wankhede set to host the final day game of the league stage and emotions running high, everything is in play, pride for one, qualification for the other. Will Rajasthan seize the moment, or will Mumbai script one last twist and play the perfect spoiler? Squads: With Wankhede set to host the final day game of the league stage and emotions running high, everything is in play, pride for one, qualification for the other. Will Rajasthan seize the moment, or will Mumbai script one last twist and play the perfect spoiler? Also Read: Live Cricket Score Rajasthan Royals: Riyan Parag (c), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ravindra Jadeja, Donovan Ferreira, Brijesh Sharma, Jofra Archer, Shimron Hetmyer, Shubham Dubey, Dasun Shanaka, Nandre Burger, Ravi Bishnoi, Sandeep Sharma, Lhuan-Dre Pretorius, Ravi Singh, Aman Rao Perala, Adam Milne, Kuldeep Sen, and Kwena Maphaka. Article Source: IANS
650+ Overseas Players Register For LPL 2026 As Draft Preparations Gather Pace
Sinhalese Sports Club Ground: The sixth edition of the Lanka Premier League has generated massive international interest, with more than 650 overseas cricketers registering for the tournament ahead of the player draft scheduled for June 1. More than 650 overseas players have registered for the sixth edition of the Lanka Premier League (LPL) 2026. Players from all ICC Full Member nations, as well as several Associate Member countries, are among those registered for the tournament, Sri Lanka cricket said in a statement on Saturday. Among the Full Member nations, Pakistan recorded the highest number of registrations with 102 players, followed by the West Indies with 75 and South Africa with 66. Bangladesh contributed 48 registrations, while New Zealand had 41 players sign up for the draft pool. There were also 24 registrations from Australia, 15 from England and 12 players from India. Among Associate nations, the highest number of registrations came from the United States, the United Arab Emirates and Ireland. Overall, players from 21 cricketing nations have entered the registration process. Tournament officials, however, confirmed that only 310 players will be shortlisted for the final draft following the screening process. The player draft for LPL 2026 will take place on June 1, with the tournament scheduled to run from July 17 to August 8. Meanwhile, SLC already announced the opening fixture of the tournament, with defending champions Jaffna Kings set to face runners-up Galle Marvels in the season opener at the Sinhalese Sports Club Ground in Colombo on July 17. Tournament officials, however, confirmed that only 310 players will be shortlisted for the final draft following the screening process. The player draft for LPL 2026 will take place on June 1, with the tournament scheduled to run from July 17 to August 8. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Five franchises will compete in a double round-robin format before the top four teams progress to the playoffs, culminating in the final on August 8. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: When And Where To Watch KKR Vs DC, Know All Details
Kolkata Knight Riders: Kolkata Knight Riders and Delhi Capitals will enter Sundays IPL 2026 league-stage finale at Eden Gardens knowing their playoff hopes are hanging by a thread. While both teams are still mathematically alive in the race for the final knockout berth, qualification scenarios remain heavily dependent on results elsewhere. The key equation centres around Punjab Kings clash against the already-eliminated Lucknow Super Giants on Saturday. A Punjab victory would officially end Delhis campaign and leave KKR requiring a massive win over DC to overcome Punjabs superior net run-rate. Even a narrow PBKS victory would mean Kolkata need a huge margin of victory to stay in contention. Both teams will also hope for Mumbai Indians to defeat Rajasthan Royals in the first game on Sunday, the penultimate match of the league stage, with RR capable of sealing qualification by reaching 16 points. Delhis inconsistent campaign has largely revolved around the performances of KL Rahul, who has scored 533 runs at a strike rate above 171. The return of David Miller has strengthened the middle order, but underwhelming bowling displays from Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav have hurt DC throughout the season. KKR, meanwhile, have staged a strong comeback after an injury-hit start disrupted their bowling unit. Six wins in their last seven matches have revived Kolkatas hopes and restored momentum heading into the final league fixture. When: Sunday, May 24, 7:30 IST Where: Eden Gardens, Kolkata Where to watch: The KKR vs DC match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Squads: Where to watch: The KKR vs DC match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Delhi Capitals: Axar Patel (captain), KL Rahul, Kuldeep Yadav, Karun Nair, David Miller, Pathum Nissanka, Tristan Stubbs, Sameer Rizvi, Nitish Rana, T. Natarajan, Mukesh Kumar, Ashutosh Sharma, Dushmantha Chameera, Lungi Ngidi, Vipraj Nigam, Sahil Parakh, Prithvi Shaw, Abishek Porel, Ajay Mandal, Tripurana Vijay, Madhav Tiwari, Auqib Nabi Dar, Mitchell Starc, Kyle Jamieson, and Rehan Ahmed Article Source: IANS
As New Zealand: As New Zealand prepare for a landmark first-ever mens Test against Ireland later this month, Rachin Ravindra believes a brief return home after leaving the IPL early has helped him mentally and physically reset ahead of a demanding red-ball tour. New Zealand departed for Ireland on Saturday for the one-off four-day Test from May 27-30 before beginning a three-match Test series against England. Ravindra left the Kolkata Knight Riders camp before the conclusion of IPL 2026 after finding limited opportunities in the playing XI. However, the left-hander said KKR were supportive of his decision to head back early and prepare for national duty. I mean KKR were very welcoming and understanding of the situation. Obviously, the way it was going, I wasn't playing. The decision was spoken to the CEO and the coach about potentially coming home for a refresh and obviously not knowing I'd be home until... Well, I wouldn't be home until late August because of what's to come, Ravindra was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo. So, really awesome from them to be able to say, go home, refresh, do a bit of training and what you need before joining the boys in Ireland. Because there was always going to be a little bit of an overlap. It made it easier since I wasn't playing. It's a great little refresh. We spend so much time away from home and even four or five days at home, which I've had, is fantastic, he added. Despite spending most of the IPL season on the sidelines, Ravindra insisted he does not feel short of match preparation ahead of the UK tour. I haven't played a game in a little while, and sort of obviously running the drinks in the IPL and getting opportunities to train and talk to guys has been great. But to be honest, I don't really feel too out of match practice. I think it was a very, very hectic schedule beforehand, he said. The left-handed all-rounder used the short break at home to work on his red-ball preparation before linking up with the New Zealand squad. But yeah, I think part of the reason being able to come home for five days or so and do a little bit of training and prepare for what's to come because we know Test cricket is super important, especially a series in Ireland and England. So I just wanted to give myself the best chance. I was down in Christchurch for a day and had a couple of training sessions down there. I had some nice grass facilities, he added. Ravindra also highlighted how his IPL experience provided valuable learning opportunities beyond the T20 format itself, particularly through conversations with experienced international cricketers and coaches. There's benefits to playing cricket and training. There's also massive benefits being in the IPL too. I mean, you get to talk to someone like Ajinkya Rahane, who's a lovely man who's played so much cricket overseas, scored a hundred at Lord's and played so much cricket against England and Australia away, the Kiwi batter stated. The coach (Abhishek Nayar0 used to be the assistant batting coach for India. You got Shane Watson, who is our batting coach, who has played England a lot, coached a lot of guys who have played England. So it's sort of, it's more than just the T20 as well. Being able to sit down and talk to Virat (Kohli) about batting or talking to KL Rahul - all these guys who've done well and had success over periods of time, he noted. New Zealand head into the tour with a pace-heavy squad featuring the returning Kyle Jamieson, Matt Henry and Ben Sears alongside the towering Will O'Rourke. Ravindra expressed excitement over the depth in New Zealands fast-bowling resources. I think we had a few injuries last summer and super excited to have those boys back. Obviously, Matt Henry, who missed the last couple of Tests, Blair Tickner, who is bowling so well, and the big man Will O'Rourke. Nathan Smith coming back, Ben Sears is fit, we've got a serious pace battery, which I'm excited to face at the nets, Ravindra said. He reserved special praise for O'Rourkes recent performances, saying, I remember Will O'Rourke the way he was bowling in his last Test series in Zimbabwe actually and the way he was bowling against England at home was fantastic. So, looking forward to see him on the park again. Truly exciting times for New Zealand cricket and we've got so much depth. With no specialist spinner named in the squad, Ravindra also indicated he is ready to contribute with his left-arm spin if required. Always interested with my bowling. Sometimes, it tends to take a back seat, but definitely trying to do a little more of that. Had some opportunities at the T20 World Cup, which was cool. On some occasional sporting wickets, it was nice to get some overs in, but Test cricket is a different beast. With the different ball, have to be a bit more consistent. I'll work on that with GP when I can, he said. With no specialist spinner named in the squad, Ravindra also indicated he is ready to contribute with his left-arm spin if required. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I mean, Ireland (are) obviously a Test-playing nation. They have quality cricketers and I'm not too sure what the pitch conditions will be like, but obviously it's a great lead-in to the England Test series, but you can't necessarily take any team lightly as you've seen in world events of late, the middle-order batter concluded. Article Source: IANS
Hesson Begins Pakistans World Cup Rebuild, Backs Youth Ahead Of Australia ODI Series
Cricket World Cup: Pakistan head coach Mike Hesson has outlined the teams long-term vision for the ODI format, with the newly-appointed head coach insisting the teams focus is firmly fixed on building a deeper and more balanced squad ahead of the next ICC Mens Cricket World Cup. As Pakistan prepare for their upcoming home ODI series against Australia national cricket team, Hesson made it clear that the selection strategy over the coming months will revolve around expanding the player pool rather than relying solely on established names. Look, I think with one-day cricket with the World Cup in mind, in a year and a half, you know, we have to widen the group. So rather than the same players always being selected, the ODI squad is a work in progress. And there's a number of areas we need to develop. And we need to make sure come the World Cup in a year and a half that we've actually got the best squad, Hesson said on the PCB Podcast Pakistans preparations have already begun through an intensive white-ball training camp organised by Hesson and his support staff, designed to evaluate both emerging players and senior members of the setup. The last two weeks have been a good chance for us to identify some of that new talent, challenge them against some of the existing stuff, or existing players, and work out where the gaps are, you know, because some of these young guys are promising, but, you know, still got a lot of work to do, said the the Pakistan head coach. The upcoming Australia series is expected to serve as an important testing ground for several young players included in Pakistans 16-member ODI squad, particularly with a few first-choice batters unavailable. With the likes of Fakir Zaman and Saim Ayub, Usman Khan all sort of being out, it gives some opportunities for us to look at some younger ones, particularly in the batting side, the former RCB coach opined. Hesson also expects Australia to arrive highly motivated after Pakistans dominant 3-0 T20I series win over them earlier this year as he said, They'll be exposed to an Australian side who'll be hurting from their performance over here last time. Despite Australias setback in the shorter format, Hesson believes ODI cricket remains one of their strongest areas. Their squad looks strong and they'll be coming over here. ODI cricket is probably one of their stronger formats at the moment. That group is certainly probably better than their T20 at the moment, Hesson mentioned. While excitement surrounds the inclusion of several young players, Hesson urged supporters to remain patient as the next generation adjusts to international cricket. I guess there needs to be a little bit of patience with some of these younger players because, sure, it would be great if they come in straight away and perform, but reality in international cricket is not everybody can do that, he said. While excitement surrounds the inclusion of several young players, Hesson urged supporters to remain patient as the next generation adjusts to international cricket. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Sometimes it takes a little bit of time to feel that you're confident enough to perform, he added. Article Source: IANS
Lucknow Super Giants: Mukul Choudhary has revealed an inspiring conversation with Virat Kohli during the ongoing IPL 2026 season, in which the former India captain advised the young Lucknow Super Giants batter to focus on mastering the art of finishing matches rather than simply hitting sixes. Mukul, who has impressed this season with his fearless batting and calmness under pressure, caught attention after his match-winning performance against Kolkata Knight Riders, where he finished a tense chase with aggressive strokeplay. Recalling his interaction with Kohli, the youngster said the batting great had closely followed his innings against KKR and offered valuable advice about handling pressure situations in T20 cricket. He also revealed how the RCB stalwart stressed that power-hitting alone is no longer enough in modern-day cricket, with many young players capable of clearing boundaries consistently. When I spoke to him, he told me that he had watched our match against KKR and seen how I finished the game. He said that hitting sixes is not a big deal anymore. Every young batter in this generation can clear the ropes. But what really matters is learning how to finish matches, Mukul told JioStar. According to Mukul, Kohli explained that the true challenge for a batter begins when a chase becomes difficult and pressure starts building during crucial moments. Anyone can hit a six when there's no pressure. But in chases of 170 or 180, when wickets are falling at the other end and the required rate is climbing, that is when the real test begins, he said. According to Mukul, Kohli explained that the true challenge for a batter begins when a chase becomes difficult and pressure starts building during crucial moments. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Mukul admitted the conversation left a lasting impact on him as he said, He told me to focus on that, not just on hitting big shots. That advice really stuck with me. Article Source: IANS
Lucknow Super Giants: Mukul Choudhary has emerged as one of the exciting young finds for Lucknow Super Giants this IPL season, and the youngster has now opened up about adapting to the pressure and expectations that come with playing on crickets biggest franchise stage. After impressing in domestic cricket and earning opportunities in LSGs middle order, Mukul admitted that the mental challenge of performing in the IPL is far greater due to the scale of attention the tournament attracts. There is more mental pressure in the IPL because more people are watching you. In some ways, things are easier here because you know the opposition bowlers, their strengths, and their plans. You have video analysis and data to prepare. In domestic cricket, you don't have all that, Mukul told JioStar. The young batter explained that while preparation becomes more detailed in the IPL environment, the spotlight and expectations create a completely different challenge for newcomers. But the pressure comes from performing on a big stage in front of a huge audience, especially when you are new to the IPL. There is a little mental pressure. But if you stay calm and stick to your processes, it becomes manageable here too, he said. Mukul has impressed this season with his fearless approach in pressure situations, quickly earning praise for his composure despite limited IPL experience. Recalling his IPL debut against Delhi Capitals, Mukul revealed that he did not initially expect to feature in the playing XI. I had no idea I would play the first match. I wasn't fully prepared for it. When I was told I might get a chance, and then finally that I was in the playing XI, my reaction was simple: 'Yes, I am playing.', he recollected. The batter said constant preparation during training camps and internal practice games helped him stay mentally ready for the opportunity. Mentally, I was ready because I knew I had to do my job. You can't worry about when the opportunity will come. It can come at any time. So I kept preparing, Mukul added. The batter said constant preparation during training camps and internal practice games helped him stay mentally ready for the opportunity. Also Read: Live Cricket Score When I walked out for the real game, I didn't feel much difference. The only new things were the crowd, the cameras, and being on live television. That created a little pressure, but it was manageable. I was ready for it, he noted. Article Source: IANS
'A great little refresh' - Ravindra on leaving IPL early and spending time in NZ before UK tour
Despite spending the IPL on the bench, Ravindra is confident about hitting the ground running in the UK
IPL 2026: Two Steps Away From What We Have Manifested From Day One, Says Krunal Pandya
Defending Champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Despite a 55-run defeat against Sunrisers Hyderabad in their final league fixture, Defending Champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) concluded the league stage at the top of the points table with 18 points and a superior net run rate, ending the league phase strongly ahead of the playoffs. The match also saw captain Rajat Patidar register his fourth half-century of the season, while Virat Kohli extended his record for the most 50-plus partnerships in mens T20 cricket with 211 stands. Bhuvneshwar Kumar also continued to lead the Purple Cap standings with 24 wickets this season. Reflecting on the team's achievement of finishing at the top of the table, Krunal Pandya said, It's not just today's game, but it's actually the effort we have put in for the last two and a half months. Obviously the result didn't go our way, but this was our first goal and to achieve that after 14 games is a pretty satisfying feeling. Now we are two steps away from what we all have manifested from day one of the start of the season. Krunal also put in a valuable all-round contribution against SRH, scoring 41 off 31 balls and picking up the crucial wicket of Heinrich Klaasen at an important stage of the innings. They had the experience of bowling on this ground and executed their slower balls really well. Getting Klaasen's wicket was crucial and I am happy with the way I was able to contribute. But at the end of the day, what matters is that golden trophy. That is the goal. RCB Head Coach Andy Flower praised the team's consistency throughout a highly competitive league campaign. To finish top of the league at the end of the group stage is a great effort. There are 10 very good teams in this competition and we've seen how competitive every side has been. Even teams lower down the table have shown how dangerous they can be when they play with freedom. Venkatesh Iyer provided RCB with an aggressive start at the top of the order, smashing 44 runs off just 19 deliveries and setting the tone early in the chase. In a big tournament, to be top of the table shows what we've achieved as a team. There is constant pressure in a tournament like the IPL and you've got to enjoy the small victories as well. This is one achievement that the entire team is going to cherish and it gives us confidence heading into the playoffs. Devdutt Padikkal emphasized the importance of carrying the team's momentum into the knockout stages. In a big tournament, to be top of the table shows what we've achieved as a team. There is constant pressure in a tournament like the IPL and you've got to enjoy the small victories as well. This is one achievement that the entire team is going to cherish and it gives us confidence heading into the playoffs. Also Read: Live Cricket Score RCB will now shift focus to the playoffs as they prepare to face Gujarat Titans in Qualifier 1 in Dharamshala on Tuesday with a place in the final at stake. Article Source: IANS
PBKS Have Had Enough Opportunities To Seal A Playoff Spot, But Failed To Take Them: Sehwag
Lucknow Super Giants: Former India opener Virender Sehwag believes Punjab Kings (PBKS) are under immense pressure heading into their crucial IPL 2026 clash against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), insisting the team cannot afford another slip-up in the race for the playoffs. Punjab, who started the season strongly before suffering a dramatic slump in form, now face a must-win scenario to keep their qualification hopes alive. Punjab Kings cannot afford to lose this game against Lucknow. There will not be a second chance. They have had enough opportunities to seal a playoff spot, but failed to take them, Sehwag told JioStar. Sehwag pointed to Punjabs inconsistency with both bat and ball as the major reason behind their recent struggles. Their batting has let them down in crucial moments, and their bowling has lacked discipline. Sometimes the law of averages catches up when you win too many games, but Punjab have been on the wrong side of it lately, he added. The former opener also felt conditions in Dharamshala worked against Punjab, but suggested the shift to Lucknow could offer the side a fresh start, as he said, Dharamshala did not suit them at all the conditions were tricky, and they struggled to adapt. Maybe the conditions in Lucknow will be better for them. Despite LSG being out of contention, Sehwag warned that their fearless approach could make them even more dangerous against a pressure-heavy Punjab side. But Lucknow are a dangerous side. Their batting lineup is packed with match-winners, and they have nothing to lose. That freedom can make them even more unpredictable. They will play without pressure, while Punjab will carry all the weight of qualification, Sehwag mentioned. Calling the contest a battle of temperament as much as skill, Sehwag added, It will be a test of nerves as much as skill. If Punjab want to stay alive, they need to bring their A game in all departments. Sehwag also identified Mitchell Marsh as the biggest threat to Punjabs bowling attack, especially in the powerplay. Mitchell Marsh will be a big challenge for Punjab's bowling attack. Even in the last two seasons, when Punjab made the final, their bowling was never their strongest suit, he said. He further highlighted Punjabs lack of a dependable middle-overs wicket-taker. They have lacked a reliable wicket-taker in the middle overs, and that weakness has been exposed time and again. They will struggle against Marsh, especially in the powerplay where he is most dangerous. Marsh has been in tremendous form at the top of the order for LSG and has posed as a threat for the opposition team, despite LSGs struggles. Explaining Marshs impact, Sehwag said, His ability to pick length early and clear the boundaries with ease makes him a handful on any surface. However, Sehwag remains hopeful that Punjab can recover in time to keep their playoff hopes alive. The only thing that could help Punjab is leaving Dharamshala. A change of venue and fresh conditions might give them a boost. Sometimes a new ground brings a change in mindset, he said. However, Sehwag remains hopeful that Punjab can recover in time to keep their playoff hopes alive. Also Read: Live Cricket Score They began the season with back-to-back wins, showing their hard work and intent. But six straight losses have hurt their morale and brought their campaign to the brink. Still, this Punjab side has strong players who have fought back before. Article Source: IANS
SRH's Batting Dominance At Home Is Their Biggest Strength: Sehwag
Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium: Former India opener Virender Sehwag hailed Sunrisers Hyderabads explosive batting approach at home after their commanding 55-run win over Royal Challengers Bengaluru in a high-scoring IPL 2026 clash in Hyderabad on Friday night. SRH piled up a massive 255/4 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, powered by blistering knocks from Ishan Kishan (79 off 46), Abhishek Sharma (56 off 22) and Heinrich Klaasen (51 off 24). In reply, RCB were restricted to 200/4 despite fighting contributions from Rajat Patidar, Krunal Pandya and Venkatesh Iyer. Analysing SRHs dominance at home, Sehwag said their ability to post daunting first-innings totals has become their biggest weapon and pointed out that SRH raised the bar even further against RCB by posting 255, leaving the visitors under scoreboard pressure from the outset. SRH's batting dominance at home is their biggest strength. When they win the toss and bat first, they are at their best. They have consistently put up 230 to 240 runs on the board. That kind of total puts immediate pressure on the chasing team. Against RCB, they went even higher, posting 255. That made the chase extremely tough from the very first over. RCB came out with the intent to go after the target, but everyone knew that if the powerplay didn't go their way, the match would be in SRH's control, Sehwag told JioStar RCB began aggressively through Venkatesh Iyers quickfire 44 off 19 balls, but the wickets of Iyer, Virat Kohli and Devdutt Padikkal after the powerplay tilted the contest firmly in Hyderabads favour. And that is exactly what happened. Once RCB lost wickets after the end of the powerplay, the required rate kept climbing, and the game slipped away. On flat tracks, setting a massive total and then letting the scoreboard pressure do the rest has become SRH's signature move at home, he added. Sehwag also weighed in on Venkatesh Iyers impressive form and the selection dilemma it has created for RCB ahead of their upcoming matches, saying, Venkatesh Iyer is at his best when batting in the top order. He played his best knocks for KKR in that position. For RCB, he hasn't had many chances at his preferred spot. The former opener referenced Iyers recent performances, including a match-winning 73 against the Punjab Kings and his attacking start against SRH But when Rajat Patidar was injured, he came in at number four against Punjab and played a match-winning 73. Then against SRH, he opened the innings and played a quickfire 44, giving RCB the start they needed in a 256-run chase, he stated. With Phil Salt nearing full fitness, Sehwag believes RCB now face a positive selection headache but made it clear who he would leave out. But when Rajat Patidar was injured, he came in at number four against Punjab and played a match-winning 73. Then against SRH, he opened the innings and played a quickfire 44, giving RCB the start they needed in a 256-run chase, he stated. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Backing Iyers aggressive intent at the top, Sehwag added, Iyer's intent against Hyderabad was spot on. When chasing 256, you need that kind of positive start, and he delivered. I wouldn't drop Iyer from the opening slot. Instead, I would replace Jitesh Sharma with Phil Salt. Jitesh is not in great form, and RCB have taken bold decisions before. If Salt has to come back, Jitesh should make way. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: 'At No. 3 He Is Playing A Very Vital Role For SRH', Says Irfan Pathan On Kishan
Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium: After wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan powered Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) to a convincing 55-run victory over Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in a run-fest IPL 2026 match in Hyderabad on Friday, former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan praised the keeper-batter for developing into a more complete batter. Kishan slammed a stunning 79 off 46 deliveries at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, guiding SRH to a massive 255/4 before restricting RCB to 200/4. Speaking on JioHotstar, Pathan said Kishan's responsible batting at No. 3 has become one of the strengths of SRH this season. The improvement that Ishan Kishan has shown throughout the season and the way he has taken responsibility on different surfaces and in different match situations... Now at No. 3 he is playing a very vital role for Sunrisers Hyderabad and looked like a much complete batter said Pathan. Pathan pointed out Kishan's progress against spin bowling, an area where he earlier struggled: He has been phenomenal against spin, especially on the off-side, and the minute you add that with his strength through the on-side, it's extremely difficult to contain him and at one point in the innings, he looked in complete control. SRH's innings was built on explosive hitting right from the start, as Abhishek Sharma smashed 56 off just 22 deliveries in the Powerplay and Travis Head contributed with a 16-ball 26. While Kishan held the innings together in the middle overs, Heinrich Klaasen took over to blast a rapid-fire 51 off just 24 deliveries to further accelerate the scoring. Pathan singled out Klaasen's innings for his ability to identify Josh Hazlewood's vulnerability and attack him aggressively: What stood out in Heinrich Klaasen's innings was his awareness to the situation of the game and he identified a bowler in Josh Hazlewood that was feeling the pressure and Josh hasn't been at his best in the last couple of games, so Heinrich Klaasen jumped at it. The former India bowler believes Klaasen's ability to capitalize on Hazlewood's mistakes was a clear sign of his current form: There were certain deliveries which were below Josh Hazlewood's standards and in particular those full tosses and half volleys which he dispatched away very well but you still needed a batter in sublime form to hit those shots. The match also witnessed a heated exchange between Virat Kohli and Travis Head during RCB's chase and Pathan believes such incidents are natural during intense contests: Virat Kohli loves playing cricket with that aggressive Australian way of being intense, with banter, with competitiveness and with emotion out there on the field and at that time, he was challenging Travis Head to come out and bowl few balls for not staying as a substituted fielder. The former India bowler believes Klaasen's ability to capitalize on Hazlewood's mistakes was a clear sign of his current form: There were certain deliveries which were below Josh Hazlewood's standards and in particular those full tosses and half volleys which he dispatched away very well but you still needed a batter in sublime form to hit those shots. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Despite their loss, RCB finished at the top of the league standings on net run rate while SRH's comprehensive victory boosted their morale going into the playoffs. Article Source: IANS
Ishan Kishan Is A Superstar In His Own Right Now; Captaincy Has Improved His Clarity: Rayudu
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Former India batter Ambati Rayudu praised Ishan Kishans growth and improved maturity after the wicketkeeper-batter guided Sunrisers Hyderabad to a crucial win over Royal Challengers Bengaluru in their recently concluded IPL 2026 game with a match-winning 79-run knock. Kishan, who won the Player of the Match award, anchored SRHs chase with a composed yet aggressive innings, continuing his strong season for Hyderabad in a campaign built around fearless batting and Rayudu opined that captaining Jharkhan in domestic cricket gave him clarity and helped him transform into a better batter. Speaking after the game, Rayudu reflected on Kishans journey from the highly competitive environment at the Mumbai Indians. For someone like him (Kishan), growing up in a franchise like Mumbai, he wants to be a superstar - he is a superstar in his own right now - but back then to compete against all the stars around him would have been very, very tough, Rayudu told ESPNCricinfo. Rayudu also highlighted the mental challenges young cricketers face while handling pressure and expectations in franchise cricket. Those guys know when to switch on in terms of their game, when to come back. But a lot of these young boys don't know how to switch off or switch on. That's a big challenge and I'm sure he has learnt and he has learnt it the hard way, he said. The former Chennai Super Kings batter credited Kishans improved decision-making and discipline for his recent consistency. Those guys know when to switch on in terms of their game, when to come back. But a lot of these young boys don't know how to switch off or switch on. That's a big challenge and I'm sure he has learnt and he has learnt it the hard way, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score He further added that Kishans captaincy stint with the Jharkhand cricket team has played a major role in shaping his batting approach, saying, I think his captaincy for Jharkhand made him realise a lot of things about his own game as well. Sometimes when you get captaincy, people transform into better batsmen and he is one of them who has massively improved in terms of clarity. Article Source: IANS
Womens T20 WC: Harmanpreet Kaur And Co. Jet Off To England From Mumbai
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport: The Indian womens team was spotted at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) as they jetted off to the United Kingdom for their tour of England, followed by the ICC Womens T20 World Cup, which will be hosted by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) starting June 12. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the squads earlier this month, on May 2, via a press conference at their headquarters here. The press meet was addressed by skipper Harmanpreet Kaur, chief selector Amita Sharma and secretary Devajit Saikia. Before addressing the media, the women's selection committee held a meeting to finalise the squad, where Harmanpreet and head coach Amol Muzumdar were also present. The Women in Blue will play three T20Is against England from May 28 to June 2, which will serve as a preparatory series for both teams ahead of the marquee event. Once all the teams assemble in the UK, theyll begin their preparations for the 12-team T20 World Cup by playing the warm-up fixtures, starting June 6. Harmanpreet Kaur and Co are placed in a tough Group B alongside Australia, South Africa, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and the Netherlands. India will play two warm-up games. Theyll face the West Indies at Sophia Gardens in Cardiff, before taking on hosts England at the County Ground in Derby. The reigning ODI champions will kick off their T20 World Cup campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan on June 14. Harmanpreet Kaur and Co are placed in a tough Group B alongside Australia, South Africa, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and the Netherlands. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India squad: Harmanpreet Kaur (captain), Smriti Mandhana (vice-captain), Shafali Verma, Jemimah Rodrigues, Deepti Sharma, Richa Ghosh (wk), Arundhati Reddy, Renuka Thakur, Kranti Gaud, Sree Charani, Shreyanka Patil, Bharti Fulmali, Yastika Bhatia (wk), Nandni Sharma and Radha Yadav Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: The Game Is On Winning The Game To Top The League Table, Says RCB's Flower
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Andy Flower said the batters at Royal Challengers Bengaluru left it up to them whether they chose to chase the score or just defend their net run rate against Sunrisers Hyderabad in the high scoring loss on Friday which still saw RCB secure the top of the IPL 2026 league table. Although RCB went on to lose the contest by 55 runs on Friday evening whilst chasing down 255 for the win it was still 200/4 sufficient enough for the team to still be above Gujarat Titans and SRH on the table with a better net run rate securing them top of the league table and a direct shot at qualifier 1. We were in a position where we could have kept pushing to chase down 255 but ultimately we got the job done and topped the league. It is quite a difficult position to be put in, when you have got these conflicting things at play, he said. The game is on winning the game to top the league table. Flower further explained how he and his players carefully weighed up their qualification scenario during the innings break, We did discuss the various targets that could be achieved. So I think we needed 166 to confirm top two and 179 to confirm top of the table with clearly 255 to get for the win. I thought Venky [Iyer] batted exceptionally well to start us off and get us going, And we wanted the batsmen to get a feel for the surface out there and make that decision, for themselves about whether they felt they could chase down 255 or 180. The total amassed by Sunrisers of 255/4 came as a result of some exceptional innings from Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan and Heinrich Klaasen and the total of 200/4 for Royal Challengers, that still kept them above their rivals on the table came from a superb 44 from 19 balls for Venky Iyer and a half-century for captain Rajat Patidar. The praised for Venkatesh from Flower knew no bounds, especially given the limited opportunity he has had throughout this season, I have got a lot of respect for Venky, he explained. He has been waiting patiently for his opportunity and when it came, in either of the roles as an Impact Player where we have really needed some extra batsmen at the death because of a difficult start we have had to the innings or both games where we have now given him an opportunity in Dharamsala batting at number four and here opening the innings he has gone on to take them and that is why he deserves his opportunity. The coach spoke of the great attitude and professionalism that the seasoned pro has shown during the course of the season, I have a lot of respect for a man that has played a lot of IPL cricket and for India and was sitting on the side for three or four weeks and not being given a chance. He has been out in that dugout and there hasn't been a change in his disposition and every single practice session has been worked very, very hard at, his bowling, his fielding and his batting and it has just been exemplary to be brutally honest, Flower concluded. The later part of the evening also saw the surface slow down significantly making for harder work on the balls with good length and slow spin. It was exactly the surface that SRH expected though when opting to bat first with coach Daniel Vettori explaining, I think it was exactly how we anticipated and that's exactly why we batted first, Vettori said. I think it was like a Punjab wicket in the sense that you could score loads but like that Punjab game RCB had put dropped a lot of catches that allowed us to really overperform with the total as opposed to what it looked like. But you felt 200 to 220 should have been a very good total at that surface. The later part of the evening also saw the surface slow down significantly making for harder work on the balls with good length and slow spin. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Royal Challengers will face Gujarat Titans in Qualifier 1 on May 26 while SRH play the fourth-placed team in the Eliminator on May 27. Article Source: IANS
Being no longer with MI has helped Kishan grow, says Rayudu
To compete against all the stars around him would have been very, very tough, Rayudu says
Kohli refuses to shake hands with Head after SRH vs RCB game
Virat Kohli and Travis Head had exchanged words earlier during the game, in which SRH beat RCB by 55 runs
IPL 2026: '255 Was A Huge Score, It Was Very High,' Says RCB Skipper Patidar
Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium: After a devastating 55-run defeat in a run fest at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on Friday, RCB skipper Rajat Patidar conceded his team were no match for the top order fire of SRH. The big target set by SRH, was still quite big, he said following the loss of what had seemed an unassailable target. The top five (SRH) batters batted brilliantly, they dominated us, Patidar said after the match. The top priority was to be on the front foot, but 255 was a huge score, it was very high. Batting first on winning the toss, SRH, once again, produced a batting master class to reach a mammoth 255/4 in 20 overs. They were on their way thanks to a phenomenal 56-run inning of only 22 balls from Abhishek Sharma, as well as Travis Head's 16-ball-26, while the anchored provided by Ishan Kishan's scintillating 79 of 46 deliveries, supported by Heinrich Klaasen's fast-paced 51 of 24 balls taking them to over 250, and then, a quick 12-ball-29 from Nitish Kumar Reddy took them to over 255. The top five (SRH) batters batted brilliantly, they dominated us, Patidar said after the match. The top priority was to be on the front foot, but 255 was a huge score, it was very high. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Rajat Patidar believed that once the SRH bowlers started varying their paces, the wicket did become challenging. Not really, the slow bouncer was gripping. They executed the bouncers and yorkers quite well, the skipper replied when asked if the surface has died down a little. Hyderabad is a good batting wicket but the moment you start delivering the slow bouncer, it becomes tough for a batter. Eshan Malinga was the star of the bowling for SRH with two for 33, with Sakib Hussain and Head providing a wicket each as they secured the dominant win in their closing matches. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: 'They've Been Fantastic,' Says Cummins On Sakib And Malinga
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Pat Cummins praised Eshan Malinga and Sakib Hussain after Sunrisers Hyderabad won decisively by 55 runs against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. The SRH captain said he had learned a lot from how the young bowlers performed throughout IPL 2026. Malinga and Sakib played vital roles in SRHs bowling on Friday night. During the powerplay, they combined for three overs and took one wicket each, disrupting RCBs early momentum after Venkatesh Iyer gave the visitors a strong start. They used a variety of slower deliveries and finished with combined figures of 8-0-64-3, helping to defend SRHs total of 255 for 4. They've been fantastic, Cummins said after the match. I've actually learned a lot from those guys. The way Eshan's bowled all season, especially in that powerplay, makes him the form bowler of the competition. He's been mixing up his slower balls and different deliveries, and of course, Sakib's been great too. Its a captains dream. Malinga is now SRHs leading wicket-taker this season, with 19 wickets in 14 matches. Debutant Sakib has also impressed, taking 15 wickets in just 10 games. Their steady performances have been key to SRHs surge into the playoffs. The win left SRH tied on 18 points with Gujarat Titans and RCB, but their net run rate kept them from finishing in the top two. SRH needed to limit RCB to below 166 to move ahead, but Cummins recognized that the conditions in Hyderabad made that target tough. Malinga is now SRHs leading wicket-taker this season, with 19 wickets in 14 matches. Debutant Sakib has also impressed, taking 15 wickets in just 10 games. Their steady performances have been key to SRHs surge into the playoffs. Also Read: Live Cricket Score RCB will now face Gujarat Titans in Qualifier 1 on May 26. Meanwhile, SRH will play the Eliminator on May 27 against one of Rajasthan Royals, Punjab Kings, or Kolkata Knight Riders, who are still in the running for the final playoff spot. Article Source: IANS
Geneva Open: Bhambri-Venus duo enters mens doubles final
The Indo-Kiwi duo, seeded third, registered a 7-5, 6-3 victory in the semifinal
Whither Alexander Zverev, the forlorn scion of the lost generation?
Sandwiched between two eras of dominance, the 66 German is in a peculiar position. He is ranked a creditable third behind Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz, although a distant one at that. And while he has made two of his three Major finals over the last two years with an upgraded game, the dream of a first Grand Slam title still seems distant ahead of Roland-Garros
Roy, Curran lead Surrey surge as Lancashire fall flat
Majid takes three as visitors are limited to 154 in reply to 213 for 6
Jansen, de Lange make mincemeat of Warwickshire
Tazeem takes four to put Gloucestershire on back foot, until South Africans got busy
Billings blazes a trail as Kent make winning start
Rossington leads reply for hosts in high-scoring clash at Lord's
Montgomery thwarted as Durham hold nerve in tight finish
Lees, Robinson set up victory before Potts closes door on Derbyshire
Mohammed's Blast best proves too rapid for Foxes
Kelly, Cox make fifties in losing cause for Leicestershire
Scrimshaw surge edges thriller for Northamptonshire
Farooqi, Douthwaite star for Glamorgan but are outdone by fiery late burst
Bairstow puts down a marker as Yorkshire march past Outlaws
Nottinghamshire unable to find fluency with the bat as spinners lead stranglehold
Smeed, Rew seal the spoils as Hampshire's woes continue
Champions Somerset make winning start as Overton, Ball stars with the ball
IPL 2026: Fireworks In Hyderabad As Sunrisers Flex Playoff Muscle, Hand RCB A sweet Defeat (Ld)
Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium: If this were a playoff trailer, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) delivered a blockbuster with fire, fury, and fearless intent in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 on Friday. On a night illuminated by sixes at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, SRH didnt just beat Royal Challengers Bengaluru by 55 runs they sent a chilling reminder to the rest of the IPL 2006 top guns that their most dangerous version may finally have arrived. The scorecard read 255/4. The atmosphere felt even bigger. Everywhere RCB looked, the ball was disappearing into the stands. Boundaries arrived in clusters, bowls vanished into the night, and Hyderabads batting lineup played with the kind of freedom that can shake a tournament. For RCB, strangely enough, the defeat carried little damage. They still secured a top-two finish and closed the league stage at the top of the table. But while the visitors could afford to look ahead to the playoffs, SRH seized the moment to make a statement of their own. And what a statement it was. Abhishek Sharma lit the fuse almost instantly. There was no caution, no feeling-out period just pure aggression. His breathtaking 56 off 22 balls, packed with towering sixes and audacious strokeplay, set the tone for the carnage that followed. Beside him, Travis Head added another burst of chaos with a rapid cameo before the innings found its heartbeat in Ishan Kishan. Kishans 79 off 46 deliveries was more than just an innings of power. It was controlled destruction. He pierced gaps effortlessly, manipulated the field with ease, and punished anything remotely loose. Just when RCB seemed desperate for the innings to slow down, Heinrich Klaasen walked in and ensured the nightmare continued. Klaasens brutal 51 off 24 balls felt like the final act of a perfectly scripted assault. By the time Nitish Kumar Reddy added the finishing touches with an unbeaten 29 off 12 deliveries, Hyderabad had transformed the stadium into a launchpad. RCBs bowlers had no answers. Every frontline option leaked runs at more than 12 an over. Length balls disappeared. Yorkers missed. Even good deliveries were punished. Only Rasikh Salam escaped with a semblance of control, picking up two wickets amid the wreckage. And yet, for a fleeting moment, the chase threatened to produce another twist. RCB opener Venkatesh Iyer exploded out of the blocks with a blistering 44 off 19 balls, injecting belief into what looked like an impossible pursuit. The tempo briefly shifted. The crowd stirred again. But crickets momentum can disappear as quickly as it arrives. The dismissals of Iyer, Virat Kohli, and Devdutt Padikkal in quick succession drained the chase of its edge, and Hyderabad tightened their grip. Captain Rajat Patidar fought with composure during his fluent 56, while Krunal Pandya remained unbeaten on 41. But the asking rate climbed relentlessly, and SRH never allowed the game to drift back toward uncertainty. Young pacer Eshan Malinga stood out with figures of 2/33, while Sakib Hussain impressed with his calm execution under pressure. Even Travis Head found himself among the wickets as Hyderabad completed a commanding victory. The result may not derail RCBs campaign. They now head to Dharamsala for Qualifier 1 against the Gujarat Titans with momentum from an excellent league stage still intact. But beyond the points table and playoff permutations, Friday night belonged to Hyderabads warning shot. The result may not derail RCBs campaign. They now head to Dharamsala for Qualifier 1 against the Gujarat Titans with momentum from an excellent league stage still intact. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Heading into the Eliminator, one thing suddenly feels clear: Hyderabad are no longer just dangerous. They are terrifying at exactly the right time. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: SRH Crush RCB By 55 Runs In Hyderabad Run-fest, Seal Statement Win
Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium: In a high-scoring thriller played at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) powered their way to a commanding 55-run victory over Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in Match 67 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 in Hyderabad on Friday night. Electing to bat first, SRH piled up a massive 255/4 in 20 overs, riding on explosive knocks from Ishan Kishan, Abhishek Sharma, and Heinrich Klaasen. In reply, RCB managed 200/4 despite fighting half-centuries from Rajat Patidar and contributions from Krunal Pandya and Venkatesh Iyer. SRH got off to a flying start as Abhishek Sharma smashed 56 off just 22 balls, hammering four fours and five sixes at a strike rate above 250. Travis Head added 26 off 16 before Ishan Kishan took control of the innings with a breathtaking 79 off 46 deliveries. Klaasen then unleashed another brutal assault, blasting 51 from just 24 balls, while Nitish Kumar Reddy finished unbeaten on 29 off 12 to push SRH beyond the 250-mark. RCBs bowlers endured a nightmare outing, with every frontline bowler conceding at least 12 runs per over. Rasikh Salam was the pick of the attack with two wickets, while Suyash Sharma and Krunal Pandya chipped in with one each. Chasing a daunting 256, RCB began aggressively through Venkatesh Iyer, who blasted 44 off 19 balls. However, quick wickets of Iyer, Virat Kohli, and Devdutt Padikkal dented the chase. Captain Rajat Patidar kept RCB in the contest with a composed 56 off 39 balls, while Krunal Pandya remained unbeaten on 41. But the asking rate kept climbing, and SRHs bowlers maintained control in the latter half of the innings. Young pacer Eshan Malinga starred with the ball for SRH, returning figures of 2-33 in four overs. Sakib Hussain also impressed with 1-31, while Travis Head chipped in with a wicket as SRH closed out a comprehensive win. The victory further strengthens Sunrisers Hyderabads momentum heading into the business end of the tournament, while Royal Challengers Bengaluru will be left searching for answers after another expensive bowling performance in a season-defining clash. Young pacer Eshan Malinga starred with the ball for SRH, returning figures of 2-33 in four overs. Sakib Hussain also impressed with 1-31, while Travis Head chipped in with a wicket as SRH closed out a comprehensive win. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Sunrisers Hyderabad 255/4 in 20 overs (Ishan Kishan 79, Abhishek Sharma 56, Heinrich Klaasen 51; Rasikh Salam 2-53) beat Royal Challengers Bengaluru 200/4 in 20 overs (Rajat Patidar 56, Venkatesh Iyer 44, Krunal Pandya 41 not out; Eshan Malinga 2-33) by 55 runs Article Source: IANS
SRH win big but RCB, GT seal top two spots
Fifties from Kishan, Klaasen and Abhishek propelled SRH to a massive score, but RCB ensured their net run-rate stayed good enough to take them to Qualifier 1
Macleod, Griffith storm to victory for Essex
Abbie Freeborn's 86 not out proves in vain for Warwickshire
Ireland pick four uncapped players for New Zealand Test
The 14-member squad includes Jake Egan, Tom Mayes, Liam McCarthy and Reuben Wilson
BCA Welcomes Vision For Bihar IPL Team, Says State Cricket Entering New Era
Vedanta Group Chairman Anil Agarwal: The Bihar Cricket Association (BCA) has welcomed the positive views expressed by Vedanta Group Chairman Anil Agarwal regarding the possibility of Bihar having its own Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise in the future. BCA officials said that such encouraging thoughts from a globally renowned industrialist and someone deeply connected to Bihar are highly motivating for the states cricket ecosystem, players, and millions of cricket fans. The Bihar Cricket Association also welcomes remarks made by the Chief Minister of Bihar, Samrat Choudhary, regarding the development of cricket in the state and providing better opportunities to players. Vedanta Group Chairman Anil Agarwal recently highlighted Bihars growing cricketing strength and expressed optimism about the states potential to have an IPL team in the coming years. Referring to the emergence of talented cricketers from Bihar and the increasing popularity of the sport in the state, he emphasised that Bihar possesses immense cricketing passion and talent, which could eventually pave the way for an IPL franchise representing the state. Bihar Cricket Association (BCA) President Harsh Vardhan said that continuous work has been done over the last 56 years to improve cricket infrastructure in Bihar. He said that the efforts are now reflecting in the performances of Bihar players at national platforms, including the Indian Premier League. The BCA president also thanked the Bihar Government for its cooperation and support towards the development of cricket in the state. BCA Secretary Ziaul Arfeen said that currently, three players from Bihar are associated with IPL franchises. Vaibhav Suryavanshi is with Rajasthan Royals, Saqib Hussain is part of Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Mohammad Izhar is associated with Mumbai Indians. He added that these players are performing consistently and contributing significantly to their respective teams. Apart from them, several cricketers from Bihar are also working with IPL franchises as net bowlers. The BCA Secretary further appreciated the contributions of former BCA President Rakesh Kumar Tiwari, former Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, current Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary, members of the state cabinet, and senior administrative officials in the development of Bihar cricket. He said that if Bihar cricket receives support from industrialists like Anil Agarwal, it would further accelerate the overall development of cricket infrastructure in the state. Bihar has always been known for producing talented cricketers. With the continuous development of infrastructure and proper guidance, Bihar cricket is steadily earning a new identity on the national stage. The BCA Secretary further appreciated the contributions of former BCA President Rakesh Kumar Tiwari, former Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, current Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary, members of the state cabinet, and senior administrative officials in the development of Bihar cricket. He said that if Bihar cricket receives support from industrialists like Anil Agarwal, it would further accelerate the overall development of cricket infrastructure in the state. Also Read: Live Cricket Score BCA expressed confidence that with continued support from the Bihar Government and leading industrialists like Mr. Anil Agarwal, young cricketers from the state will receive better facilities, exposure, and opportunities in the coming years. The association reiterated its commitment to the growth of cricket and the development of players in Bihar. Article Source: IANS
Learoyd, Holland on song in thrilling Taunton tie
Scores level as Somerset and Hampshire take it to the wire
Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium: Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) turned the Uppal Stadium into a six-hitting arena on Friday evening, piling up a mammoth 255/4 against defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in Match 67 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season. Powered by blistering knocks from Ishan Kishan, Abhishek Sharma, and Heinrich Klaasen, SRH unleashed yet another batting masterclass that left the RCB bowlers gasping for answers. Batting first, SRH came out with clear intent attack from ball one. Travis Head and Abhishek Sharma wasted no time in taking the fight to the opposition, hammering 45 runs in just four overs. Head looked dangerous during his quickfire 26 off 16 balls before Rasikh Salam finally provided RCB their first breakthrough. But Abhishek was in no mood to slow down. The left-hander produced a breathtaking 56 off just 22 deliveries, smashing four boundaries and five towering sixes at a staggering strike rate of over 254. His fearless assault ensured SRH raced along at over 11 runs an over in the powerplay. Suyash Sharma eventually ended the carnage in the ninth over with SRH already cruising at 97. Then came the Ishan Kishan show. The wicketkeeper-batter blended elegance with brute force in a superb 79 off 46 balls, peppering the boundary ropes with eight fours and three sixes. At the other end, Klaasen continued his reputation as one of the leagues most destructive finishers. The South African star bludgeoned 51 off just 24 balls, launching five massive sixes as the duo tore through RCBs bowling attack in the middle overs. Their counterattack sucked the life out of the visitors before Krunal Pandya finally removed Klaasen in the 17th over. However, there was no respite for RCB. Nitish Kumar Reddy added the finishing flourish with an unbeaten 29 off only 12 balls, helping SRH smash 66 runs in the final five overs and surge past the intimidating 250-run mark. It was a night to forget for RCBs bowlers, with every single bowler conceding at more than 12 runs per over. Rasikh Salam emerged as the least expensive with figures of 2/52, while Suyash Sharma and Krunal Pandya picked up a wicket apiece. Experienced pacers Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood were taken apart, leaking 51 and 55 runs respectively. Chasing a colossal 256 on a batting paradise in Hyderabad, RCB now face one of the steepest tests of their IPL 2026 campaign. It was a night to forget for RCBs bowlers, with every single bowler conceding at more than 12 runs per over. Rasikh Salam emerged as the least expensive with figures of 2/52, while Suyash Sharma and Krunal Pandya picked up a wicket apiece. Experienced pacers Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood were taken apart, leaking 51 and 55 runs respectively. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Sunrisers Hyderabad 255/4 in 20 overs (Ishan Kishan 79, Abhishek Sharma 56, Heinrich Klaasen 51; Rasikh Salam 2-53) v Royal Challengers Bengaluru Article Source: IANS
Smith outdoes Jones as Surrey surge past Lancashire
Hefty chase ignites champions in six-wicket win
Javid Kitab Takes Charge As JKCA President, Promises Transparency And Accountability
Apex Council Members Anil Kumar: Javid Ahmad Kitab on Friday formally assumed charge as President of the Jammu & Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA), following the withdrawal of a petition pending before the Supreme Court and the subsequent vacation of the interim order related to the JKCA elections. The matter pertained to the case titled Youth Cricket Club & Others vs Jammu & Kashmir Cricket Association & Another (WP(C) 17/2026), in which the interim stay granted earlier by the Supreme Court was vacated after the petitioners withdrew their plea on May 21. Subsequently, Kitab stated that the election results were conducted under the supervision of former Chief Election Commissioner of India, A.K. Jyoti, who now stands effective, enabling the elected body to officially take charge of the association. On assuming charge of the JKCA, Kitab emphasised that the new tenure would focus on development and integrity. This regime will be based on transparency, accountability, and respect, he said in a statement issued by the association. Kitab assured stakeholders that the associations rule book would serve as the guiding framework for all decisions and activities. The new tenure will be based on development, transparency, accountability, and honesty, he said, while adding that he would remain available in both Srinagar and Jammu offices. JKCA added that the detailed schedule regarding future administrative functioning would be communicated to all concerned members in due course. Copies of the circular were forwarded to BCCI office bearers, JKCA office bearers, Apex Council members, and various banking institutions associated with the association, it further said. Apart from Kitab, Desh Rattan Dubey (VicePresident), Vivek Khajuria (Secretary), Rajan Singh (Treasurer), and Apex Council Members Anil Kumar Koul and Rakesh Koul have also taken charge. The assumption of office by the newly elected JKCA office bearers marks the conclusion of a prolonged and controversial administrative era that began in 2017 when the Jammu & Kashmir High Court removed the elected body and appointed CourtAppointed Administrators (CAA). Under this, former police officer Syed Ashiq Hussain Bukhari was named CEO to oversee the associations affairs. The intervention, initially projected as a temporary one, stretched to nearly four years as the administrators and CEO continued to run JKCA without holding elections. In March 2021, the High Court ended its tenure and directed the BCCI to manage JKCA and ensure free and fair polls. As per that, the BCCI set up a subcommittee comprising former cricketer Mithun Manhas (who now heads the national body), senior advocate Sunil Sethi, and Brigadier Anil Gupta. Under this, former police officer Syed Ashiq Hussain Bukhari was named CEO to oversee the associations affairs. The intervention, initially projected as a temporary one, stretched to nearly four years as the administrators and CEO continued to run JKCA without holding elections. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Subsequently, the aggrieved clubs approached the Supreme Court, which allowed the elections to proceed but stayed the declaration of results on January 8. With petitioners now withdrawing their plea, the apex court vacated the stay, enabling Joti to formally announce the results and clear the way for the elected body to take charge on Friday. Article Source: IANS
Maha, Haryana, UP, Mumbai Reach Semis Of National Physical Disability Cricket Championship
Elite National Physical Disability Cricket: Maharashtra, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Mumbai secured their places in the semifinals as the end of the league stage matches of the ongoing 5th Elite National Physical Disability Cricket Championship concluded successfully on Friday, setting the stage for some exciting clashes in the last-four stages. Players from across the country displayed remarkable determination, discipline, and sportsmanship throughout the tournament, making the championship highly competitive and inspiring. Maharashtra and Haryana advanced from Group A with impressive performances, while Uttar Pradesh and Mumbai qualified from Group B after the completion of the league phase. The semifinal matches will be played on Saturday at the Sports Garden Ground in Bengaluru. In the first semifinal, Mumbai will take on Maharashtra, while Haryana will face Uttar Pradesh in the second semifinal. Both matches are expected to witness intense competition as teams battle for a place in the grand finale. The championship is being hosted by the Karnataka State Divyang Cricket Association, an affiliated state association of the Physically Challenged Cricket Association of India (PCCAI). PCCAI is also a founder member of DCCI. DCCI Secretary Ravi Chauhan said that this years championship has brought forward several talented new players, including several promising Under-19 cricketers. He stated that the performances of these young players have been highly impressive and encouraging for the future of disability cricket in India. He further informed that the association is planning to organise an Under-19 National Championship in the near future to provide young divyang cricketers with better opportunities and a stronger platform to showcase their talent at the national level. Speaking about the future vision of disability cricket, Chauhan said that the organisation is committed not only to conducting tournaments but also to empowering divyang players economically and socially. Plans are being made to organise bigger national and international tournaments in the coming years so that players can receive greater recognition, improved facilities, and stronger financial support. He also mentioned that the association will formally approach BCCI through an official communication seeking enhanced support for disability cricket in India. The proposal will focus on providing better opportunities, infrastructure, and financial assistance for physically challenged cricketers, helping the sport reach new heights across the country. Speaking about the future vision of disability cricket, Chauhan said that the organisation is committed not only to conducting tournaments but also to empowering divyang players economically and socially. Plans are being made to organise bigger national and international tournaments in the coming years so that players can receive greater recognition, improved facilities, and stronger financial support. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The championship has created tremendous excitement among players, officials, and cricket enthusiasts. Organisers have appealed to sports lovers to come in large numbers and support the players during the semifinal and final matches at the Sports Garden, Bengaluru. Article Source: IANS
BRSABV Ekana Cricket Stadium: Punjab Kings head coach Ricky Ponting admitted his side has only itself to blame for its current predicament in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, as they prepare for a must-win clash against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), to be played at the BRSABV Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow on Saturday. After winning their first six completed games, PBKS slumped to six consecutive defeats and now need to beat LSG while relying on other results to stay in contention for clinching the last remaining spot in the playoffs. We were exceptional for our first seven or six games. Then we had that washout against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), and I think from that moment on, we've just been a little bit off, and as I said, they're small things. They're one or two balls, or they're an over here and there that quite conceivably, we could have won another three or four games, but we've only got ourselves to blame for that. We're in the situation that we're in as a result of not playing at our best over the last few weeks, but we've also got a very good idea of what our best cricket looks like and what it is and what we have to do to win tomorrow, and that's all we can focus on, said Ponting in the pre-match press conference. He also warned that LSG, who are already eliminated from the competition, could be dangerous with nothing to lose. I think teams in situations like this can be very dangerous. Lucknow is going into tomorrow. Apart from probably personal pride and pride for the franchise's performance, they've really got nothing else to lose. But we understand that, and that's the way that I want my boys to play as well. I want us to be fearless, and I want us to be daring. I want us to take the game on and not be worried about the negative things that might happen, he added. Despite the losing streak, Ponting said the dressing room remains calm, with the side fully understanding the do-or-die situation. Theres a really good, positive vibe around the group; its been really relaxed. Weve got quite an experienced group of players, so they know how to go about getting themselves prepared for big games, and I guess theres no hiding from the fact that its now or never for us as a team in this tournament. So Im really excited about tomorrow. Im excited about what this group is capable of, and I think we all saw in the first seven games of the season just how good this team can play. It's really important we focus on the positive things and what you can do as an individual player to make an impact on the game there and then. These games in the IPL are decided by very, very fine margins. You've only got to be off by a couple of balls here and there, or one of your batsmen might take a bad option, or a freakish piece of fielding to change the momentum. So we're aware of that, but we just need to know that we need to play our best game tomorrow. So Im really excited about tomorrow. Im excited about what this group is capable of, and I think we all saw in the first seven games of the season just how good this team can play. It's really important we focus on the positive things and what you can do as an individual player to make an impact on the game there and then. Also Read: Live Cricket Score He leaves no stone unturned as far as his preparation is concerned. Alongside him, Shreyas's leadership around the group has been exceptional. Hes a very mature leader now who understands how to get the best out of his players. Every time that he speaks, every one of our players looks up and listens. Article Source: IANS
PBKS meet LSG with playoffs hopes hanging by a thread
While a win may not be enough for PBKS to make the playoffs, a loss to LSG will end their campaign
Raghuvanshi ruled out of IPL 2026 after suffering concussion and finger fracture
KKR wicketkeeper-batter collided with Varun Chakravarthy while playing MI, and was subbed out as a result
Ponting: 'We only have ourselves to blame for where we are'
PBKS' head coach is wary of a dangerous LSG side who have nothing to lose
SRH bat, Bethell out as Patidar returns for RCB
Depending on their total, SRH will need to win by 83-89 runs to replace RCB in the top two
IPL 2026: SRH Elect To Bat First As RCB Bring Back Patidar For Injured Bethell
Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium: Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) won the toss and elected to bat first against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in a clash of two in-form sides in Match 67 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad on Friday. RCB captain Rajat Patidar returned to the playing XI as the lone change, replacing Jacob Bethell, who has picked up a finger injury. SRH go into the match unchanged from their last outing. SRH captain Pat Cummins said they still have a long shot at finishing in the top two, and putting on a big score would help them have a go at that. RCB are currently on 18 points from nine wins in 13 matches, while Sunrisers Hyderabad have 16 points from the same number of matches. A win for SRH will open up an opportunity to move up to the second spot based on Net Run Rate (NRR) I think it's a long shot finishing top two, but we just want to give it a crack. Want the boys to enjoy tonight, Cummins said at the toss. Their decision to bat first seems justified as the pitch looks bereft of grass, and it looks consistent and even. The pitch is likely to bounce and carry, making it possible for the batters to hit through the line. Playing XIs: Sunrisers Hyderabad: Abhishek Sharma, Travis Head, Ishan Kishan (wk), Heinrich Klaasen, Salil Arora, R Smaran, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Pat Cummins (capt), Shivang Kumar, Eshan Malinga, Sakib Hussain Impact substitutes: Aniket Verma, Praful Hinge, Liam Livingstone, Harsh Dubey, Harshal Patel Sunrisers Hyderabad: Abhishek Sharma, Travis Head, Ishan Kishan (wk), Heinrich Klaasen, Salil Arora, R Smaran, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Pat Cummins (capt), Shivang Kumar, Eshan Malinga, Sakib Hussain Also Read: Live Cricket Score Impact substitutes: Tim David, Kanishk Chouhan, Swapnil Singh, Abhinandan Singh, Jordan Cox. Article Source: IANS
Vijay Shankar retires from Indian domestic cricket and the IPL
The move will enable the 35-year-old allrounder to play in overseas franchise leagues
All-rounder Vijay Shankar Announces Retirement From All Forms Of Indian Cricket
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: Allrounder Vijay Shankar on Friday announced his retirement from all forms of Indian cricket, bringing the curtains down on a career that saw him represent India in both whiteball formats and feature in the 2019 Mens ODI World Cup. Shankar, a mainstay for Tamil Nadu in domestic cricket, played 12 ODIs and nine T20Is for India, amassing 324 runs in all and picking nine scalps. He was surprisingly preferred ahead of Ambati Rayudu in the main squad and played three matches before a toe injury ended his tournament early, with Mayank Agarwal replacing him. In his retirement note, Shankar said he now aims to pursue new opportunities and play more cricket. A HEARTFELT THANK YOU. Cricket is my life. I started playing when I was 10, and 25 years later, I am grateful and blessed to have played at every level and to the highest level. Representing our country will always be one of my proudest and happiest moments. I have decided to retire from playing domestic cricket and IPL to pursue new opportunities and play more cricket. Thank you will not suffice for letting me do what I love. Eternally grateful. Thankful to BCCI and the Indian Cricket Team - many learnings, countless memories, and various inspirations! Representing the country will be my highest badge of honour. Bowling the last over at India's 500th ODI at Nagpur and my First ball, first wicket at the 2019 World Cup are moments I will hold onto forever! wrote Shankar on his social media accounts on Friday. In the Indian Premier League (IPL), Shankar played 78 games and turned out for Chennai Super Kings, Sunrisers Hyderabad, Delhi Capitals, and Gujarat Titans, including in their title-winning run in 2022. In domestic cricket, Shankar captained Tamil Nadu to the Vijay Hazare, Deodhar, and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy titles before playing for Tripura in the last season. My IPL Teams GT, SRH, CSK, and DC - special thank you! The experience and lessons from all around have made me what I am today! TNCA under 13,15,17,19,22,25 and finally, senior men's team - I've spent most of my life here. Thank you to everyone for every step of the way. Captained and won trophies with this very special side. Numerous hurdles and challenges shaped me into a better cricketer. Thanks to the Tripura Team for letting me carry on the dream for a little while longer. My teams at the TNPL - CSG, IDTT, and SS. Loved playing this special tournament with all the TN talents. My most prestigious - TN league teams - Indian Bank, ICF, India Cements, and now, Take Solutions - This is where it all began and has kept going for years. Grateful to have had the opportunity to play here, he added. Captained and won trophies with this very special side. Numerous hurdles and challenges shaped me into a better cricketer. Thanks to the Tripura Team for letting me carry on the dream for a little while longer. My teams at the TNPL - CSG, IDTT, and SS. Loved playing this special tournament with all the TN talents. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Lastly, my family and friends' words won't do justice, but thanks to them for sticking with me through literally thick and thin. I have faced unreal hate and negativity. Let me take this opportunity to let you know that I chose to ignore and move forward. If I can do that, anyone can! Think positively and work hard. Cricket has taught me life. Cricket is my life. Grateful and blessed, Your 3D cricketer, Vijay Shankar. Article Source: IANS
LSG vs PBKS Match 68, IPL 2026: Preview, Predicted XIs, Player Tips & Match Predictio
LSG vs PBKS Match 68 , Cricket Tips :Lucknow Super Giants will be in action for the last time in the IPL 2026. It has been a disappointing season for them, and they will be aiming to end it on a high. LSG will lock horns with Punjab Kings on Saturday at Ekana Stadium, starting at 7:30 PM IST. LSG are currently at the bottom of the table, and a win here will give them a chance to finish the table in ninth place. But this match is very important for Shreyas Iyer and co. They need two points from this game, which will help retain their ground for the playoffs. But their qualification depends on some other results also. PBKS can best win this game and wait for the other matches to get over. LSG vs PBKS: Match Details Date : May 23, 2026 (Saturday) Time : 7:30 PM IST Venue : Ekana Stadium, Lucknow LSG vs PBKS Live Streaming Details Indian fans can watch the live action of the LSG vs PBKS game on the Star Sports Networks. Fans can also watch the game through the Jio Hotstar app or website. LSG vs PBKS Head-to-Head in IPL Total Matches : 07 LSG : 03 PBKS : 04 No - Result : 00 LSG vs PBKS: Ground Pitch Report The wicket at Ekana Stadium is slow, and bowlers will have some assistance from the wicket. Batters can play their shots when the ball is hard, but as the game goes, it might stick more. That is where it will be important to score runs in the power play. LSG vs PBKS Possible XIs LSG : Mitchell Marsh, Josh Inglis, Rishabh Pant (c & wk), Nicholas Pooran, Ayush Badoni, Abdul Samad, Shahbaz Ahmed, Mayank Yadav, Mohsin Khan, Akash Maharaj Singh, Prince Yadav PBKS : Prabhsimran Singh (wk), Priyansh Arya, Cooper Connolly, Shreyas Iyer (c), Suryansh Shedge, Azmatullah Omarzai, Shashank Singh, Harpreet Brar, Lockie Ferguson, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal LSG vs PBKS Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Mitchell Marsh has been superb for LSG, and he can score quickly in the powerplay. Priyansh Arya is a guy who can destroy any bowling unit and will be dangerous for LSG. Probable Best Bowler Arshdeep Singh and Mohsin Khan are two bowlers who will be the ones to watch out for in this game. Today Match Prediction : PBKS have lost six games on the trot, but they have been better than LSG this season. Hence, we predict Lucknow Super Giants to win this game. LSG vs PBKS Match 68, IPL 2026, Today 2026 Match, LSG vs PBKS 2026 Prediction, LSG vs PBKS Predicted XIs, Injury Update for LSG vs PBKS Match Also Read: Live Cricket Score Disclaimer : The predictions 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.
Ireland Name Balbirnie-led Squad For Test Against NZ, Stirling, Little Out With Injuries
World Test Championship: Cricket Ireland has announced a squad led by Andrew Balbirnie to take the field when they host New Zealand for a one-off Test match at Stormont, Belfast, from May 27 to 30. Balbirnie is all set to lead the side for the 10th time in the longer format. Ireland have also confirmed the absence of Paul Stirling, Barry McCarthy, Josh Little, Gavin Hoey, and Jordan Neill, who are all ruled out due to injury. Hoey is sidelined due to a side strain, while Stirling is nursing a calf injury. McCarthy is ruled out until 2027 following an ACL tear, while Neill is recovering from a shoulder muscle injury, and Campher is yet to resume bowling. Four players Jake Egan, Tom Mayes, Liam McCarthy, and Reuben Wilson are in line to make their Test debuts if selected in the playing eleven. This will be Irelands 13th Test overall and their first against New Zealand. Ireland have won three Tests to date, including its first Test at Stormont in 2024 against Zimbabwe. Balbirnie is the only player to feature in all 12 Irish Tests so far, but he will be leading a severely depleted squad against the Blackcaps, who won the 2021 World Test Championship. After the Test against New Zealand, Ireland will host reigning Mens T20 World Cup winners India for two T20Is in Stormont, Belfast, on June 26 and 28. It is followed by them hosting Afghanistan for five ODIs from August 5-14 in Bready and Stormont, Belfast. After this, Ireland will first travel to Nepal for a whiteball series under a fiveyear strategic partnership, before heading to the UAE for a warmweather training camp and a whiteball series against the hosts, with Irish players also set to feature in the ILT20 as part of a fiveyear agreement with the Emirates Cricket Board. After the Test against New Zealand, Ireland will host reigning Mens T20 World Cup winners India for two T20Is in Stormont, Belfast, on June 26 and 28. It is followed by them hosting Afghanistan for five ODIs from August 5-14 in Bready and Stormont, Belfast. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Ireland squad: Andrew Balbirnie (c), Mark Adair, Curtis Campher, Cade Carmichael, Stephen Doheny, Jake Egan, Matthew Humphreys, Tom Mayes, Andrew McBrine, Liam McCarthy, Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker, Reuben Wilson, Craig Young Article Source: IANS
The Three Editions That I've Seen WPL Grow, It's Been Outstanding, Says Muzumdar
T20 World Cup: India womens head coach Amol Muzumdar said the Womens Premier League (WPL) has played a massive part in the overall development of womens sport in the country ahead of the upcoming ICC Womens T20 World Cup, to be played in England from June 12 to July 5. I would say, not just restricted to T20 cricket, I would say overall development of women's sport. WPL has played a massive part, and I've been a witness to it in the last three years. The three editions that I've seen WPL grow, it's been outstanding. I mean, the stadiums have been full. If you have seen in the last three years what has transpired in WPL, it's been outstanding. I mean, for any girl or any cricketer to play in front of a capacity crowd in a packed stadium, and if she can come up with some match-winning performances, I think the confidence level goes sky-high, and that has helped in cricket overall. I don't want to just restrict it to T20 cricket. I want to just talk about the overall development of the sport in India - I think WPL has played a massive part in that, said Muzumdar in a video posted on bcci.tv. on Friday. Muzumdar, who took over as the sides head coach in October 2023, said seeing athletes grow under his guidance has given him immense satisfaction. I can talk for myself that if I do tend to see some kind of development, or if I'm involved in that athlete's growth and development, it gives me immense satisfaction. If you can see it with your own eyes and in front of you, sometimes the results come a little later, but if you have invested your time and energy with that athlete and if you can see the results, I think no greater satisfaction than that as a coach. Muzumdar, who took over as the sides head coach in October 2023, said seeing athletes grow under his guidance has given him immense satisfaction. I can talk for myself that if I do tend to see some kind of development, or if I'm involved in that athlete's growth and development, it gives me immense satisfaction. Also Read: Live Cricket Score When I went in to bat, I was in control of things. But when I'm sitting outside, in the dugout, and if somebody else is walking on to the ground, I mean, I'm not in control of that. So, all you can do is just prepare well, plan well, and then pray well. Article Source: IANS
Mangaluru to host Indian Open of Surfing from May 29-31
The NMPA Indian Open of Surfing 2026, organised by Surfing Swami Foundation and Mantra Surf Club under SFI, will significantly contribute to the preparations for the Asian Games
T20 Mumbai League Trophy Tour Ignites Excitement Among Fans
T20 Mumbai League Trophy: The countdown to the new season of the T20 Mumbai League and the inaugural T20 Mumbai Womens League gathered pace on Friday as the official trophy tour commenced, igniting excitement among cricket fans across the city. From iconic streets to bustling neighbourhoods, Mumbai came alive with energy and anticipation as supporters turned out to welcome the trophies and celebrate the build-up to what promises to be a mega cricket carnival in the city. Season 4 of the T20 Mumbai League and the inaugural T20 Mumbai Womens League are scheduled to be held from June 1 to June 13 at the iconic Wankhede Stadium. The opening day of the Trophy Tour took the trophies to several prominent locations in South Mumbai, including Worli Sea Face, Worli Sports Club, and Lalbaugs Garamkhada Maidan, drawing enthusiastic crowds and building anticipation ahead of the upcoming tournaments. Fans engaged with the trophies and took photos to capture the moment. The two-week Trophy Tour has been conceptualised as a citywide fan engagement initiative to take the excitement around the league beyond the stadium and into the heart of Mumbais cricketing communities. Scheduled to take place from Friday to Sunday, the tour will travel across Mumbai, its suburbs and neighbouring regions, covering locations such as Dadar, Worli, Churchgate, Chembur, Bandra, Virar, Navi Mumbai and Thane. Alongside the trophy showcase, the initiative will feature on-ground fan engagement activities, public interactions, and community outreach programmes aimed at connecting supporters with the leagues ahead of the season. The tour will also feature the leagues mascot, Bouncer Bhau, engaging with fans and creating a lively and entertaining atmosphere for cricket enthusiasts across the city. MCA President Ajinkya Naik said: The T20 Mumbai League has played an important role in strengthening Mumbais cricket ecosystem by providing opportunities to talented players and deepening the connection between the game and its fans. With the addition of the T20 Mumbai Womens League, we are taking another significant step towards creating a broader and more inclusive platform for cricketing talent across the region. Through the Trophy Tour, we want to bring the spirit of both tournaments directly to the people of Mumbai and celebrate the citys enduring passion for cricket. Alongside the trophy showcase, the initiative will feature on-ground fan engagement activities, public interactions, and community outreach programmes aimed at connecting supporters with the leagues ahead of the season. The tour will also feature the leagues mascot, Bouncer Bhau, engaging with fans and creating a lively and entertaining atmosphere for cricket enthusiasts across the city. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Season 4 of the T20 Mumbai League is set to feature leading international stars, including Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Ajinkya Rahane, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shivam Dube, Shardul Thakur, Sarfaraz Khan and Tushar Deshpande, while the womens tournament, featuring top players like Sayali Satghare, Humairaa Kaazi and Saima Thakor, is expected to provide a significant platform for emerging and established women cricketers from Mumbai. Article Source: IANS
Govt Is Working In 'mission' Mode: CM Samrat Choudhary Backs The Idea Of Bihar Franchise In IPL
Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary: Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary has expressed support for the idea of forming an Indian Premier League (IPL) team representing Bihar, stating that the government is working in mission mode to strengthen cricket infrastructure and opportunities for young players in the state. The statement came in response to a social media post by a cricket enthusiast who highlighted the achievements of several cricketers from Bihar and questioned why the state still does not have its own IPL franchise like Chennai Super Kings, Mumbai Indians, and Kolkata Knight Riders. The X post pointed out that Bihar has produced several talented players, including Ishan Kishan from Patna, who recorded one of the fastest ODI double centuries, Vaibhav Suryavanshi from Samastipur, who became one of the youngest players to debut in the IPL, and Saqib Hussain from Gopalganj, whose bowling performances have recently drawn widespread attention. Responding to the post, CM Choudhary wrote that he fully agreed with the sentiment and stated that the Bihar government is pursuing cricket development with a clear vision and mission. The government is working in 'mission' mode with a clear 'vision' for Bihar's cricket 'emotion'. With your cooperation, a positive decision regarding Bihar's cricket team will definitely be taken, CM Choudhary said in his X post. The state government is also focusing on strengthening sports infrastructure across Bihar. A new international-standard cricket stadium with a seating capacity of around 40,000 spectators is being developed in Rajgir, while renovation work at the historic Moin-ul-Haq Stadium in Patna is also being planned to improve cricketing facilities in the state. Rajgir Cricket Stadium at the Rajgir Sports Complex is being called a milestone for Bihars sports infrastructure and a boost to the state cricketing aspirations. The state government is also focusing on strengthening sports infrastructure across Bihar. A new international-standard cricket stadium with a seating capacity of around 40,000 spectators is being developed in Rajgir, while renovation work at the historic Moin-ul-Haq Stadium in Patna is also being planned to improve cricketing facilities in the state. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The Rajgir Cricket Stadium is built under the guidance of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). It is being constructed in line with international parameters. Article Source: IANS
Babar back for ODIs vs Australia; uncapped Rohail, Minhas and Daniyal called up
Shadab Khan and Naseem Shah also returned for three-match series, while Mohammad Rizwan was omitted
IPL 2026: When And Where To Watch LSG Vs PBKS, Know All Details
Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari: Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) will clash with Punjab Kings (PBKS) in their last group stage match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 to be played at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium on Saturday. LSG have endured a frustrating and underwhelming IPL 2026 season, with results failing to go their way throughout the campaign. With only eight points from 13 matches, they currently occupy the bottom spot on the points table and are already out of playoff contention. Despite showing flashes of brilliance in patches, LSG have struggled to maintain consistency in both batting and bowling, which has hurt them repeatedly during crucial moments of the tournament. In contrast, PBKS are still mathematically alive in the playoff race, although their recent form has placed them in a difficult situation. After enjoying a strong run earlier in the tournament, PBKS have witnessed a dramatic slump in performances and now come into the contest on the back of six consecutive defeats. Their sudden dip in form has severely dented their chances of securing a place in the top four. Despite the losing streak, PBKS remains fifth in the standings with 13 points and still have an opportunity to push for qualification. However, they can no longer afford any slip-ups, making their clash in Lucknow a virtual must-win encounter. Another defeat would almost certainly end their playoff hopes, while a victory would keep them firmly in contention heading into the final phase of the league stage. When: Saturday, May 23, 7:30 IST Where: Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow Where to watch: Where to Watch: The LSG vs PBKS match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with live streaming of the game available on JioHotstar. Squads: Where to watch: Where to Watch: The LSG vs PBKS match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with live streaming of the game available on JioHotstar. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Punjab Kings: Shreyas lyer (c), Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh (wicketkeeper), Nehal Wadhera, Shashank Singh, Marcus Stoinis, Azmatullah Omarzai, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal, Harpreet Brar, Suryansh Shedge, Vishnu Vinod (wicketkeeper), Xavier Bartlett, Yash Thakur, Mitchell Owen, Harnoor Singh, Musheer Khan, Pyla Avinash, Marco Jansen, Lockie Ferguson, Cooper Connolly, Ben Dwarshuis, Pravin Dubey, Vishal Nishad Article Source: IANS
Zimbabwe To Host Bangladesh For Multi-format Bilateral Series In June-July
ZC Managing Director Givemore Makoni: Zimbabwe will host Bangladesh for a multi-format bilateral series in June and July, Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) said on Friday. The tour will comprise one Test, three ODIs and as many T20I matches. The tour will begin with a five-day Test at Harare Sports Club from June 28 to July 2, followed by ODIs at the same venue on July 6, 9 and 11, respectively. The teams will then move to Bulawayo, where Queens Sports Club will stage the T20I series on July 15, 17 and 19, respectively. The series against Bangladesh will be Zimbabwes first home assignment of the year and their first international cricket since their historic run to the Super Eight stage at the ICC Mens T20 World Cup, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka in February and March this year, after beating Australia and Sri Lanka in the group stage. Zimbabwe last hosted Bangladesh in 2022, winning both the ODI and T20I series 2-1. The sides also met in a two-Test series in Bangladesh last year, which ended 1-1 after Zimbabwe secured a three-wicket victory in the opening match their first Test win in four years. ZC added that the ticketing and broadcast details will be announced later. We are delighted to confirm Bangladeshs tour of Zimbabwe for what we expect to be a highly competitive and exciting series across all formats. This tour is hugely significant for us as it marks the return of top-level international cricket to our home venues following the teams outstanding performances at the ICC Mens T20 World Cup earlier this year. Our supporters have every reason to be proud of what we have achieved in recent months and we are looking forward to seeing fans once again rally behind the team in Harare and Bulawayo, said ZC Managing Director Givemore Makoni. ZC also said former South African first-class cricketer Quinton Friend will work with the senior mens national team as a consultant bowling coach ahead of the series against Bangladesh. Our supporters have every reason to be proud of what we have achieved in recent months and we are looking forward to seeing fans once again rally behind the team in Harare and Bulawayo, said ZC Managing Director Givemore Makoni. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Friend is currently assisting at a training camp underway in Harare under the guidance of Head Coach Justin Sammons as preparations intensify for the upcoming international assignments, added ZC. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: CSK Haven't Managed To Shift The Needle In Terms Of Top-fourteams, Says Mukund
Chennai Super Kings: Former India batter Abhinav Mukund has described Chennai Super Kings campaign in IPL 2026 as a very average season, adding that the fivetime champions only managed wins against lowerranked sides and failed to challenge the higherranked teams. Ruturaj Gaikwad-led CSK lost to Gujarat Titans (GT) by 89 runs at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad and ended their season with 12 points and a seventh spot on the points table, which may change when the league stage ends on Sunday. CSK had a very average season throughout with them not knowing their strengths at home because that is something that they take pride in. As much as it looks like, 'oh yeah, they've got 12 points and they had a decent season', to me a very big factor in that is they beat DC (Delhi Capitals) twice, they beat MI (Mumbai Indians) twice, they beat LSG (Lucknow Super Giants) once, and KKR (Kolkata Knight Riders) once. That's their 12 points. They haven't managed to even shift the needle in terms of your top-three, top-four sides. So you know the differential in that. You know the teams that are trying to compete with these top-four sides and you know the teams that are not close. So I felt that CSK had a very average season throughout with them not knowing their strengths at home because that is something that they take pride in. The seasons that they've done well in, they know that this is the team that they want to play at home and when they go away they have a certain strength too, said Mukund on ESPNCricinfo. CSK were plagued by injuries to key players including MS Dhoni, Nathan Ellis, Jamie Overton, Ramakrishna Ghosh and Khaleel Ahmed. While Mukund was pleased with Sanju Samsons trade to the CSK working well at the end, he also questioned the franchises auction strategy, particularly in the choice of their overseas picks. The Sanju Samson trade to me was a success because that's something they addressed from last season, the top. But after that, what happens to your bowling resources. You have got a lot of bowlers for pretty cheap in the auction but are they exactly the replacements that you want? Are these the areas that you're looking for? I don't think so. They have a lot to work on in terms of their overseas set-up because they've got Matt Henry, Matt Short, Zak Foulkes and Dian Forrester, all four who I don't think are going to make the cut for next season (but) these are all guys that are part of the other (Super Kings) franchises. But other than that, you've got Spencer Johnson, who comes in, Overton, Akeal (Hosein), Ellis and Noor (Ahmad). The Sanju Samson trade to me was a success because that's something they addressed from last season, the top. But after that, what happens to your bowling resources. You have got a lot of bowlers for pretty cheap in the auction but are they exactly the replacements that you want? Are these the areas that you're looking for? I don't think so. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I feel that there was a disconnect in the replacements that they picked as well or the back-ups that they picked in the auction. I would seriously have a rethink. That Indian talent is really good. I think there is a ceiling for them and there is some way to go with regards to their best performances yet to come, (but) I would still back them. But you've got to work on your overseas replacements, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Opening With Kohli In Debut Season Gave Clarity To Construct An Innings, Says Padikkal
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Royal Challengers Bengaluru left-handed batter Devdutt Padikkal said opening the innings with Virat Kohli in his debut IPL season gave him clarity on how to construct an innings, and reflected on the technical and mental adjustments that have shaped his career. Padikkal has been a key batter and has scored 412 runs in 13 matches for defending champions RCB sealing their spot in the 2026 IPL playoffs, and boasts an impressive strike rate of 173.11. When I made my IPL debut with RCB in the 2020 season, I felt ready. I had a solid run of scores in domestic cricket behind me. So, I knew that when my chance came, I would be fully switched on and give 100 per cent. And batting with Virat Kohli, one of the greatest in the game, was a huge help. At that age, watching him build an innings gave me so much clarity and understanding of how to construct a knock. That made a big difference in my growth, said Padikkal on JioStar. Padikkal also credited RCB support staff for helping him refine his game after returning to the franchise in 2025. I made several changes to my batting technique with the help of Dinesh Karthik and Andy Flower. I needed to adjust a few things to shift from red-ball to white-ball cricket. It's not easy because both formats demand different technical approaches. So, I worked on those technical adjustments. Mentally, I had to bring more intent into my game. In earlier seasons, I had a fixed template for starting my innings. I had to break away from that and try a different approach. I needed to go out with the mindset of looking to score off every ball. Once I did that, the results started showing. On RCBs batting depth, Padikkal said, Having a powerful and deep batting lineup at RCB is a luxury. When you know the batting order is strong all the way down, it gives you extra confidence to play freely at the top. But you also have to take responsibility. That's how T20 cricket is evolving now. You have to be ready to sacrifice your wicket if it helps the team score an extra 20 or 30 runs quickly. So, it's important to keep the momentum going. That is pretty much the template across the IPL. And when you have batting depth and explosiveness coming in later, it makes that approach even easier to execute. With all things going great for Padikkal at RCB, he also reflected on the time his stints at Rajasthan Royals and Lucknow Super Giants taught him about adaptability. Moving from being a dedicated opener to batting in different positions lower down the order was challenging, especially at a young age. But those experiences with Rajasthan Royals and Lucknow Super Giants shaped me into the player I am today. Batting at different numbers taught me how to read situations, construct innings under pressure, and adapt my game. I am grateful for that journey and hope to keep learning. The 2024 IPL season was a tough one. Bouncing back from a difficult season is never easy. You must let it settle. During that season, a lot was going on in my head. I made sure I didn't ignore it. You must go through the phase, accept it, and figure out how to come out better. Once the season ended, I knew exactly what I had to work on. I started putting in the effort, and soon I could see progress. That is how a cricketer's journey works. You must keep evolving and keep learning. Setbacks will happen. The key is to get back up as quickly as possible and keep moving forward. During that season, a lot was going on in my head. I made sure I didn't ignore it. You must go through the phase, accept it, and figure out how to come out better. Once the season ended, I knew exactly what I had to work on. Also Read: Live Cricket Score For me, I focus on my own strengths and try to get the best out of myself. I don't compare myself with others because there are so many talented players in this tournament. I keep it simple and work on improving my own game as much as I can. Article Source: IANS
Bangladesh to tour Zimbabwe for all-format series in June-July
The upcoming series will mark Zimbabwe's first home assignment of the year and their first international action since the T20 World Cup
'SRH Need To Do Something Extraordinary To Get Into Top 2', Says Chopra Ahead Of RCB Clash
Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium: Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra believes that the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) need to do something extraordinary against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) if they want to secure the spot in top two in the standings. The 2016 winners will face the defending champions in their last group stage match at their home ground, Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad, on Friday. Ahead of the match, RCB are at the top of the table with 18 points from 13 games and a net run rate of +1.065, Gujarat Titans are present at second with 18 points in 14 matches and a net run rate of +0.695. While SRH have 16 points from 13 games, they can match RCB and GT's 18 points, but they would need a big-margin win to overcome their lower NRR of +0.350 and secure the top two spot. Chopra explained the equation for SRH to surpass RCB and GTs net run rate and said that it will require an out-of-the-box effort. The 2016 winners will face the defending champions in their last group stage match at their home ground, Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad, on Friday. Ahead of the match, RCB are at the top of the table with 18 points from 13 games and a net run rate of +1.065, Gujarat Titans are present at second with 18 points in 14 matches and a net run rate of +0.695. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Sunrisers hold a slight edge in the head-to-head record against the Challengers. Among the 27 matches played between the two sides, SRH have won 14 matches, while RCB have also been victorious in 12 outings. Both the sided last met in the opening match of the IPL 2026, in which RCB beat SRH by 6 wickets at M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Article Source: IANS
'Dismissing Samson On The First Ball Was A Massive Moment For GT': Boucher
Former South African: Former South African cricketer Mark Boucher believes that Mohammad Siraj dismissing Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) opener Sanju Samson on the first ball was the massive moment for Gujarat Titans in their 89-run win over the five-time champions. Defending a daunting 229-run target, GT struck immediately when Siraj induced an edge from Samson on the very first ball of the innings. CSK never recovered from the early collapse and were eventually bowled out for 140 in just 13.4 overs, a result that also knocked the five-time champions out of playoff contention. Boucher felt Samson was the one batter capable of mounting a serious challenge in the chase and credited Siraj for executing his plans perfectly. Sanju Samson was probably the one batter who could have posed a real challenge for the Gujarat Titans in that chase, so dismissing him on the first ball was a massive moment in the game, Boucher told Jio Hotstar. Mohammed Siraj executed his plan perfectly, especially on a red-soil surface where he could pitch the ball up and allow it to swing. The line and length were spot on, and he immediately found the edge. That wicket dealt a huge blow to CSKs hopes because once Samson fell early, they were always going to need something extraordinary to recover from there, he added. Siraj went on to finish with figures of 3-26, while Kagiso Rabada and Rashid Khan also picked up three wickets each as GT sealed a top-two finish in the points table. Earlier, opening pair of Shubman Gill (64) and B Sai Sudharsan (84) once again laid the foundation for a massive total with a 125-run partnership, before Jos Buttlers unbeaten 57 off 27 balls propelled GT to 229/4. Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan stand out because of the consistency with which they score runs and the hunger they continue to show every single game. In an era where T20 batting is often associated with constant innovation and high-risk shots, they rely heavily on strong cricketing basics and proper shot-making, said Boucher. Earlier, opening pair of Shubman Gill (64) and B Sai Sudharsan (84) once again laid the foundation for a massive total with a 125-run partnership, before Jos Buttlers unbeaten 57 off 27 balls propelled GT to 229/4. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The latest century stand between Gill and Sudharsan also saw them equal the IPL record for most 100-run partnerships in tournament history with 10, matching the tally of Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers. Article Source: IANS
'Theres Still No Certainty Around Whether He Will Play In 2027': Simmons On Dhoni
Chennai Super Kings: Chennai Super Kings bowling coach Eric Simmons said uncertainty still surrounds whether MS Dhoni will return for IPL 2027 after the legendary former captain missed the entire 2026 season due to injury, as CSK signed off from another disappointing campaign with an 89-run defeat to the Gujarat Titans. The loss confirmed CSKs elimination before the playoffs for the third consecutive season, with the five-time champions finishing IPL 2026 with six wins from 14 matches. Simmons admitted Dhonis absence had a major impact on the side this season, while also indicating that no clarity has emerged yet over the veteran wicketkeeper-batters IPL future. MS Dhoni is someone whose presence automatically changes the balance and confidence of the side. Naturally, when a player of that stature misses an entire season, it leaves a huge gap. At this stage, theres still no certainty around whether he will play IPL 2027. Those conversations will happen in due course, but right now the focus is on understanding where we went wrong this season and how we improve as a unit, Simmons said in a post-match presser. Simmons, however, said CSK would still take valuable lessons from a season in which several young and inexperienced players were given opportunities. Kamboj took 21 wickets in 14 matches and was the top wicket-taker for the team in the season. I think each player goes away with something to work on. As a bowling coach, I put reports together for each guy to go for the next nine months to come back as an improved player, like we saw Anshul (Kamboj) come back from last season, he added. Simmons, however, said CSK would still take valuable lessons from a season in which several young and inexperienced players were given opportunities. Kamboj took 21 wickets in 14 matches and was the top wicket-taker for the team in the season. Also Read: Live Cricket Score We know ourselves a lot better as a unit, and we also know a lot of the individuals better, as to what they can and can't do. Someone like Kartik has come along magnificently this season. We know what he's about. Obviously, the established players, we've always known who they were and what they are, he added. Article Source: IANS
