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Great to see someone like Shafali take responsibility: Harmanpreet on Asia Cup victory
Head coach Amol Muzumdar credited India's strong batting effort, singling out Shafali Verma's power and charisma, Smriti Mandhana's flair and the team's three-pronged spin attack after India crushed Sri Lanka by 72 runs
Women's Asia Cup: India Beat Sri Lanka To Clinch Title
Dubai International Cricket Stadium: Harmanpreet Kaur-led Team India beat defending champions Sri Lanka by 72 runs in the final of the Women's Asia Cup 2026 here at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday to lift a record-extending eighth title. It was an all-round performance for the champions, with both bowlers and batters contributing as a unit to win the game and lift the crown. India lifted the trophy and became Asian champions yet again after bowling Sri Lanka out for 111 in their chase of 184. After Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma's half-centuries, which also saw them sharing a record 129-run opening stand, the bowlers worked their magic, with Shree Charani picking a four-wicket haul and Deepti Sharma taking three scalps. Kranti Gaud, Shafali and Prema Rawat contributed with one scalp each. It was an all-round performance for the champions, with both bowlers and batters contributing as a unit to win the game and lift the crown. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories With the win, India extended their dominance over Sri Lanka, taking their victory tally to 26 in 31 games so far. India, now with eight titles in nine final appearances, are the most successful team in the history of the Womens Asia Cup. Article Source: IANS
1st T20I: Synergy In Bowling Attack Key To Indias Win Over Afghanistan, Says Shreyas Iyer
Arun Jaitley Stadium: India skipper Shreyas Iyer lauded his bowling unit's collective effort for setting up a clinical seven-wicket victory over Afghanistan in the first T20I here at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Sunday. He also highlighted the immediate impact made by returning fast-bowling spearhead Jasprit Bumrah. India restricted Afghanistan to 156/8 before chasing down the target with 38 balls to spare. Yes, absolutely. Im grateful for that, and everyone worked in synergy towards the success and as I mentioned earlier, Bumrah is a great asset to the team, and, you know, giving that start, creating the momentum for all the bowlers coming in, said Iyer at the conclusion of the game. He also praised the other bowlers for keeping the pressure on the opposition through the middle overs. Arshdeep also bowled brilliantly, followed by Axar and Varun; the way they bowled was a phenomenal effort, he added. Asked if he could have handled the final over differently after Shivam Dube was handed the ball late in the innings, Shreyas defended the move. Honestly speaking, there was no choice. And you saw that its a bit unfair for Dube as well coming in for the 20th over, not able to gauge the pace of the wicket, how the ball is going to go on. So, I felt that he would be delivering at that particular moment, but its absolutely fine because its a game of cricket, and Im sure that hell go and analyze what areas he needs to work on. Shreyas was equally effusive in his praise for the top-order pair of Abhishek Sharma (82) and Ishan Kishan (42), who put on an important 121-run stand. Starting off with Abhishek, I feel that the shots he played were flawless, and some of them were exemplary. But talking about Ishan, hes been in great form recently, and the way hes been portraying himself in the dressing room and also on the ground during practice sessions, hes very relaxed, calm, and he knows his game at the moment. So thats a great sign for us as a team. On the other hand, Afghanistan captain Ibrahim Zadran conceded that his side fell well short of a par score after losing wickets in clusters early in the innings. We didnt get the result we wanted. I would say we had three good starts, then we didnt contribute well. But talking about Ishan, hes been in great form recently, and the way hes been portraying himself in the dressing room and also on the ground during practice sessions, hes very relaxed, calm, and he knows his game at the moment. So thats a great sign for us as a team. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Zadran identified a key run-out of him, executed by Kishan, as the moment when the game tipped decisively in India's favour. I would say that run-out was the turning point. Ishan Kishan grabbed the ball and threw it to the fielder, the bowler. I would say that was the turning point; they got the momentum. Article Source: IANS
PIX: Dos Santos, Sedjati, Pathirage steal limelight
World-record holder Alison dos Santos secured victory in the men's 400m hurdles, while Djamel Sedjati surprisingly won the men's 800m on the final day of the World Athletics Ultimate Championship. Other winners included Jasmine Jones (women's 400m hurdles), Rumesh Pathirage (men's javelin), and Likina Amebaw (women's 5,000m) at the event in Budapest, which featured a record $10 million prize pot.
BCCI's Stand: Indian Team's First Reaction After Refusing Women's Asia Cup Trophy From Mohsin Naqvi
The Asia Cup trophy impasse continued for the second year in a row after the victorious Indian women's cricket team on Sunday did not accept the trophy from Mohsin Naqvi
Asia Cup: Indian women's cricket team refuses to accept trophy from ACC head Mohsin Naqvi
Harmanpreet Kaur-led India defeated Sri Lanka by 72 runs here to lift their record-extending eighth Asia Cup title, but the players did not come out on the field for post-tournament presentation ceremonies
India win the Asia Cup but no trophy presentation... again
Sri Lanka players accepted their medals from ACC president Mohsin Naqvi
Harmanpreet Lauds Flawless Execution in Asia Cup Conquest
India's women's cricket team secured their record-extending eighth Asia Cup title, defeating Sri Lanka by 72 runs in the final. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur attributed the success to the team's consistent high standards, while coach Amol Muzumdar highlighted strong batting and effective spin bowling.
Women's Asia Cup Final: BCCI Secy Saikia, VP Shukla Present Nandni With Fielding Medal
Dubai International Cricket Stadium: The celebrations on the field at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium reflected the collective effort behind Indias record-extending eighth Womens Asia Cup title, with BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia and Vice President Rajeev Shukla joining the triumphant team and support staff after their 72-run win over Sri Lanka on Sunday. Saikia and Shukla were present at the stadium as India completed a dominant campaign to reclaim the continental crown. Following the victory, the two BCCI officials joined the players and members of the support staff on the ground, speaking to the squad and applauding their performances before they presented the fielding medal to Nandni Sharma. For Nandni, the occasion carried added significance after her return from injury. The young player admitted the title felt particularly special after missing out on action due to an injury sustained during the Womens Premier League (WPL). It feels really good. I was in a tournament in India, and I got injured. I was in the WPL, the World Cup, so this is my first one. It feels really, really good, and then we won again, so it feels even better, Nandni told the broadcasters after the win. Nandni was also asked about how India managed to keep Sri Lanka captain Chamari Athapaththu under control during the final, with the experienced batter restricted to 36 before being dismissed by Deepti Sharma. I think the credit goes to my teammates and the staff. They kept everything very clear for us about what we had to do, so I just did that, she added. Indias victory came at an important juncture with the Asian Games also on the horizon, and Nandni believes the Asia Cup triumph will provide the team with further belief while also giving them areas to work on. Confidence is very high, and it is there in our practice as well. Whatever little mistakes we made, we will work on them and then go there and win as well, she stated. Deepti was central to Indias victory, finishing with 3-19 and dismissing Athapaththu and Vishmi Gunaratne in the same over before returning to close out the innings. Nandni underlined the trust the team places in the all-rounder. Confidence is very high, and it is there in our practice as well. Whatever little mistakes we made, we will work on them and then go there and win as well, she stated. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Indias celebrations eventually culminated with Nandni receiving the fielding medal, adding another personal moment to a title triumph that the entire squad had helped deliver. Article Source: IANS
Harmanpreet Kaur says good to see Shafali Verma taking responsibility
The game ended in strange circumstances with the trophy handover never taking place
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Lamine Yamal's double propelled Barcelona to a hard-fought 4-2 victory over Levante, preserving their perfect LaLiga start with five wins and extending their winning run.
Women's Asia Cup: India refuse to take trophy from ACC chief Mohsin Naqvi
Digital Desk | Dubai, Sep 14 (IANS) The Indian women's team opted not to take the Asia Cup 2026 trophy from Asian Cricket Council president Mohsin Naqvi after winning the continental showpiece for the record-extending eighth time, following their 72-run win against Sri Lanka at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. However, the Indian women's team did not turn up to receive their trophy from Naqvi, who is also the Federal Minister for Interior in Pakistan. On the sidelines, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia and vice-president Rajiv Shukla presented Nandani Sharma with a fielding medal. Saikia addressed the players and congratulated them, but the Women in Blue did not turn up to take the trophy from Naqvi. This was in line with the men's team's protocol, as they too had also denied taking the trophy from the ACC president after winning the T20 Asia Cup in 2025 following their victory over Pakistan in the final. The stalemate continued for nearly an hour before Naqvi ordered the men's Asia Cup trophy to be taken away from the stadium, according to reports. Later, India skipper Suryakumar mocked receiving the trophy and shared it with his players. The Indian team returned without taking the trophy. The Indian players refused to accept the Asia Cup trophy from Naqvi for his role in supporting terrorism in India as Pakistan's Interior Minister. BCCI also reportedly wrote to Naqvi to hand over the trophy, but it was not given despite India being the champions. Coming to the match, India did very well in both departments. India posted a strong total of 183/5, with Shafali Verma (68) and Smriti Mandhana (59) setting things up with a record 129-run stand for the opening wicket and scoring strong half-centuries. The Indian bowlers backed things pretty well as Shree Charani picked up four wickets, while Deepti Sharma also scalped three wickets to take the Women in Blue home.
What A Performance': BCCI VP Shukla Hails Indias Eighth Women's Asia Cup Triumph
Dubai International Cricket Stadium: BCCI Vice-President Rajeev Shukla hailed Indias womens cricket team for their dominant campaign in the Womens Asia Cup 2026 after the Harmanpreet Kaur-led side clinched a record-extending eighth continental title with a 72-run win over Sri Lanka in the final on Sunday. India remained unbeaten throughout the tournament and capped their campaign with a comprehensive performance at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Shukla highlighted the consistency of the team and the contributions from players across the squad as he celebrated the latest milestone for Indian womens cricket. What a performance by our Women in Blue! Undefeated throughout the tournament and now Asia Cup champions for the 8th time! Every player stepped up when required. A complete team effort and a proud moment for Indian cricket. Well played, Team India! @BCCI @BCCIWomen, Shukla wrote on X. The title triumph saw India avenge their defeat to Sri Lanka in the 2024 Asia Cup final and further strengthen their record in the tournament. The Women in Blue have now won the Asia Cup eight times, establishing themselves as the most successful side in the competition. Indias victory was built on a commanding batting display before their bowlers completed the job. Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana produced a record 129-run opening stand to put India in control after being asked to bat first. Shafali smashed 68 from 39 balls, including the fastest half-century in the history of the Womens Asia Cup, reaching the landmark in only 24 deliveries. Mandhana added 59 from 39 balls as India posted 183/5. Sri Lanka struggled to match the intensity during the chase. Captain Chamari Athapaththu top-scored with 36, but Indias bowlers kept taking wickets at regular intervals. Shafali smashed 68 from 39 balls, including the fastest half-century in the history of the Womens Asia Cup, reaching the landmark in only 24 deliveries. Mandhana added 59 from 39 balls as India posted 183/5. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories The triumph also marked Indias sixth victory over Sri Lanka in an Asia Cup final, adding Article Source: IANS
India once again shun Mohsin Naqvi, refuse to take Women's Asia Cup trophy from ACC chairman
The Indian team performed brilliantly as they took on Sri Lanka in the Women's Asia Cup 2026 final. The two sides met at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on September 13th, and it was team India who emerged victorious in the clash; after the game, all the fans were discussing whether or not the side would take the Asia Cup trophy from ACC chairman Mohsin Naqvi. As expected, the Women in Blue did not even come out of the dressing room to receive their winner's medal but also refused to take the trophy from Naqvi.
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'Fantastic Effort, Finished Off Strong': Muzumdar After India's Women's Asia Cup Win
Dubai International Cricket Stadium: India women's head coach Amol Muzumdar hailed the Indian team and the support staff after India won the eighth Asia Cup title by defeating Sri Lanka in the 2026 final on Sunday at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. India starred in both the batting and bowling departments to avenge their 2024 loss to Sri Lanka and took a 6-1 lead over their southern neighbours in the Asia Cup final record. Speaking following the 72-run win after India bowled Sri Lanka out for 111, Muzumdar reflected on the campaign and heaped praise on the entire contingent. Fantastic effort. They showed up from the first game and, fittingly, finished it off strong. Really proud of all the players and all the support staff as well, Muzumdar told broadcasters after the win. He emphasised that the batters laid the platform with Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma putting up 129 for the opening wicket to take India to 183/5. It was a fantastic pitch today, and we came up well. I think our batting was really strong. We started off really nicely, and that's what we spoke about in the meetings, and the girls went on to execute things really nicely, he added. The Dubai pitches have been a bit on the slower side, with run-scoring not that easy. India won the toss for the first time this tournament and opted to bat first on what turned out to be a better surface for the willow-holders. Speaking on the bat-first decision, Muzumdar said, I mean, if you see throughout the fortnight, I think the pitches were on the slower side, and they turned quite a bit. So putting the score on the board and then defending it, we did have the luxury of having three quality spinners in our ranks. So I think that was predominantly the tactic: put the score on the board and then go out there and defend. He reserved his praise for Shafali and Smriti and hailed the qualities that they bring to the table. Absolutely fantastic (on Shafali). The left-hand-right-hand combination (with Smriti)... Shafali has got her own style and the firepower that she has, and just the charisma that she has on the pitch just puts the opposition on the back foot. Smriti, as usual, she has got that flair, she has got that touch. So they complement each other really well, and I'm glad that they had a good show time today. He reserved his praise for Shafali and Smriti and hailed the qualities that they bring to the table. Absolutely fantastic (on Shafali). The left-hand-right-hand combination (with Smriti)... Shafali has got her own style and the firepower that she has, and just the charisma that she has on the pitch just puts the opposition on the back foot. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories On their plans for the Sri Lankan skipper, Muzumdar said, We went back to the five-match series that we played in December against Sri Lanka in India, and how we dismissed Chamari, a very important wicket as far as Sri Lanka is concerned. So I thought that was the plan, but I'm glad that Deepti went on to execute it nicely. Article Source: IANS
Smriti Irani congratulates Team India on record eighth Womens Asia Cup triumph
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 14 (IANS) Indias record-extending eighth Womens Asia Cup title drew a celebratory response from former Union Minister Smriti Irani, who hailed the Indian womens cricket team after its emphatic 72-run victory over Sri Lanka in the final at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday. India delivered a commanding all-round performance to reclaim the continental crown, overcoming Sri Lanka in the summit clash after losing to the same opposition in the 2024 final. The victory also extended Indias dominance in Asia Cup finals against Sri Lanka, with the Women in Blue now having beaten them six times in title clashes across formats, including the 2004 edition. Reacting to the landmark triumph, Irani congratulated the players and underlined the qualities that powered Indias campaign, while also expressing pride in the teams achievement. India, Indiaaaaaaaa.....Heartiest congratulations to our Indian Womens Cricket Team on winning the Womens Asia Cup 2026. This remarkable triumph reflects the teams hard work, determination and belief. Your performance has made the entire nation proud. Wishing the champions many more victories ahead! India had laid the foundation for the victory with a powerful opening partnership between Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana. The duo added a record 129 runs for the first wicket, putting Sri Lanka under pressure from the outset. Shafali was the aggressor, smashing 68 from just 39 balls. She also produced the fastest half-century in the history of the Womens Asia Cup, reaching the landmark in only 24 deliveries. Mandhana complemented her with a composed 59 off 39 balls. Despite losing momentum in the latter stages, India finished with a formidable 183/5, with G Kamalini contributing a quick 15 from five balls. Sri Lankas chase never gathered sustained momentum. Deepti Sharma struck twice in the 10th over, dismissing captain Chamari Athapaththu for 36 and Vishmi Gunaratne, before Shree Charani took centre stage. Charani claimed four wickets for 20 runs, while Deepti finished with 3-19 as Sri Lanka were bowled out for 111. The 72-run win secured Indias eighth Asia Cup title and completed a dominant campaign with the team starring with both bat and ball.
Shafali Verma, Smriti Mandhana Star As India Dethrone Sri Lanka To Clinch 8th Women's Asia Cup Title
Shafali Verma and vice-captain Smriti Mandhana struck forceful fifties, while the bowlers under Sree Charani produced an equally intense effort as India crushed Sri Lanka by 72 runs to clinch a record-extending eighth women's Asia Cup title on Sunday.
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 13 (IANS) Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) President Rohan Jaitley on Sunday lauded the passionate local crowd at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, stating that a 28,000-plus turnout created a fantastic atmosphere for the first T20I between India and Afghanistan. Shreyas Iyer-led India registered a dominant seven-wicket victory in the series in front of a packed stadium, with Afghanistan playing as the designated hosts on neutral ground in the national capital. It was wonderful to see international cricket return to Delhi and, more importantly, to see so many fans come out to support both India and Afghanistan. A 28,000-plus crowd created a fantastic atmosphere at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, and it was particularly special for the home fans to see India begin the series with a win, Jaitley said in a statement at the conclusion of the game. He also highlighted how hosting Afghanistans home series in New Delhi aligns with broader diplomatic ties and expressed gratitude to the leadership at the helm of the sport. With Afghanistan playing its home series against India in Delhi, the occasion was a great reflection of the strong bond between the two countries and the power of sport to bring people closer, in line with the Honble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modis vision of stronger ties with our neighbours. We are also grateful for the support and encouragement from the BCCI and ICC Chairman Jay Shah, which helped make it possible for Delhi to host this bilateral series, he added. Pointing to the end of a high-profile week for the national capital, Jaitley noted how sports and global diplomacy converged in the city, which is set to host two further T20Is between Afghanistan and India on Tuesday and Thursday. With the BRICS Summit also concluding in Delhi, it was a special moment for the city to welcome people from across the world through both sport and diplomacy. We look forward to welcoming the teams and fans back for the remaining two T20Is and hope to see the same energy in the stands, Jaitley concluded.
'We have certain standards and we played to it': Harmanpreet after Asia Cup win
Digital Desk | Dubai, Sep 13 (IANS) India captain Harmanpreet Kaur heaped praise on her team after winning the eighth Women's Asia Cup title by beating Sri Lanka in the 2026 final by 72 runs at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday. Kaur called her team a great one and emphasised that they played to their standards to lift the continental showpiece yet again. We feel this way because we know how much potential we have, and we have a great team. I think we played to our standards because that's what we discussed when we came here: we have certain standards, and we have to, you know, keep matching them every day. And we are very happy with the way we all performed. And I think the girls have done fabulously well throughout the entire tournament, setting 184 in a final, Kaur said after the win. She heaped praise on the openers Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana, who put up a record 129-run partnership for the opening wicket and laid the platform to take the Women in Blue to 183/5 in 20 overs. The 129-run stand is now the highest in the Women's T20 Asia Cup for any wicket. Yes, definitely. We all knew it's not that easy to come back, but I think our openers did an absolutely great job for us, the way they both batted, Smriti and Shafali. I think Shafali had a very, you know, great tournament, and it's good to see somebody like Shafali taking responsibility and doing the job with bat and ball. And I mean, I can't ask anything else from them. It's all about, you know, playing good cricket, and at the end of the day, I'm very happy overall, she said. She also thanked the crowd for their constant support for the Women in Blue wherever they go. I think I've been saying that they are our biggest support. Wherever we go, they're always there to support us, and I think in front of them we always want to play great cricket and hope we are able to, you know, entertain them with our great performance. And I'm sure today, it's good to see a lot of smiles, a lot of, you know, people enjoying their performance, and hopefully we'll keep continuing that, she said. Shafali smashed 68 from 39 balls and also hit the fastest half-century in the history of the tournament, when she raised her bat for the milestone off just 24 deliveries. The Indian bowlers backed things pretty well as Shree Charani picked up four wickets, while Deepti Sharma also scalped three wickets to take the Women in Blue home.
Shafali, Mandhana power India to eighth Asia Cup title
Sri Lanka were bowled out for 111 in chase of 184, with Charani and Deepti sharing six wickets between them
'We want to dominate all teams': Abhishek Sharma
Abhishek Sharma's explosive 82-run innings led India to a seven-wicket victory over Afghanistan in the opening T20 International in New Delhi, giving them a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. Despite recent underwhelming performances, the Indian team showcased a strong collective effort, with key contributions from Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, and Ishan Kishan, while Afghanistan's skipper acknowledged their batting shortfall.
Women's Asia Cup: India Beat Sri Lanka By 72 Runs To Win Record-extending Eighth Title
Dubai International Cricket Stadium: India lifted the Women's Asia Cup trophy for a record-extending eighth time by defeating Sri Lanka in the 2026 Asia Cup final here at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium by 72 runs on Sunday. The Women in Blue starred across all departments to avenge their 2024 final loss to Sri Lanka, as they kept bossing the Lankan side in the Asia Cup finals. This was India's sixth win against Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup finals, including the ODI format and the 2004 tournament when India beat Sri Lanka 5-0 in the two-team tournament. India posted a strong total of 183/5, with Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana setting things up with a record 129-run stand for the opening wicket and scoring strong half-centuries. The Indian bowlers backed things pretty well as Shree Charani picked up four wickets, while Deepti Sharma also scalped two wickets to take the Women in Blue home. Shafali and Mandhana laid the foundation for the win with their 129-run stand. Shafali smashed 68 from 39 balls and also hit the fastest half-century in the history of the tournament, when she raised her bat for the milestone off just 24 deliveries. Mandhana made a composed 59 from 39 balls, but Sri Lanka made a strong comeback in the latter half of the innings. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur struggled at No.3, falling for 14 before Richa Ghosh was also removed for 17, while G Kamalini, playing her first match of the tournament, made a five-ball 15 to give the Women in Blue a strong finish. Sri Lanka were found wanting in their top-order performances, and it was not a big improvement over their previous outings, as Imesha Dulani was dismissed in the first over by Kranti Gaud. India kept the lid on Sri Lanka batters as captain Chamari Athapaththu was not being let free to score. They were kept at 38/1 at the end of the powerplay. Athapaththu showed her muscles when she saw leg-spinner Prema Rawat coming in for her first over in the ninth over. She hit her for a six and four as Sri Lanka dreamt with their captain around. However, Deepti hit the body blow when she got Athapaththu stumped out in the 10th over and then doubled the blow when she bowled Vishmi Gunaratne in the same over. The two wickets meant Sri Lanka were already staring down the barrel by the end of the 10th over. With 121 needed off 60 balls, India did not let the 2024 champions breathe easy as Shree Charani got Harshitha Samarawickrama for nine to become India's leading T20I wicket-taker of the year. She continued her good work and took three more wickets, with two coming in the 15th over as she removed Kavisha Dilhari and Nilakshika Silva in the space of three balls. The two wickets meant Sri Lanka were already staring down the barrel by the end of the 10th over. With 121 needed off 60 balls, India did not let the 2024 champions breathe easy as Shree Charani got Harshitha Samarawickrama for nine to become India's leading T20I wicket-taker of the year. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Brief Scores: India 183/5 (Shafali Verma 68, Smriti Mandhana 59; Mithali Ayodhya 1-33) beat Sri Lanka 111/10 (Chamari Athapaththu 36, Nilakshika Silva 22; Shree Charani 4-20, Deepti Sharma 3-19) by 72 runs. Article Source: IANS
South Africa Thrash Namibia By 9 Wickets To Complete 3-0 ODI Series Sweep
Bjorn Fortuin's four-wicket haul and aggressive half-centuries from Jordan Hermann and Connor Esterhuizen powered South Africa to a commanding nine-wicket victory over Namibia in the third ODI at the Namibia Cricket Ground on Sunday, completing a 3-0 series sweep.
1st T20I: Bowlers, Abhishek Carry India To Clinical Seven-wicket Victory Over Afghanistan (ld)
T20 World Cup: After defeats in Ireland and England laid bare the issues with its understrength bowling unit, including severe injury setbacks to key personnel, current T20 World Cup holders India finally found its cutting edge with the ball, setting the foundation for a clinical seven-wicket victory over Afghanistan in the T20I series opener at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Sunday. Jasprit Bumrahs impactful return from a left knee injury instantly restored bite to the frontline pace attack, as he removed Rahmanullah Gurbaz for a duck to trigger an early Afghanistani collapse. Alongside Arshdeep Singhs standout 3-19 and a frugal stump-to-stump leash from spin duo Axar Patel and Varun Chakaravarthy, who picked a scalp each. It also meant that, apart from pace bowling being lightweight, India got better returns from its spinners, an area that hurt the three-time T20 World Cup winners on the trip to the United Kingdom. What would concern India, though, was the fifth-bowler quota, shared between Nitish Kumar Reddy, Abhishek Sharma, and Shivam Dube, who conceded 59 runs at an economy rate of 14.75. Afghanistan found its way back as Azmatullah Omarzai hit a brilliant, unbeaten counter-attacking 64 off 44 balls, pushing Afghanistan to 156/8, including an 83-run stand with Mohammad Nabi (33). But the total proved hopelessly inadequate once India began their reply. Abhishek Sharma watched the ball like a hawk and left 25, 165 fans drenched in a relentless shower of boundaries. With his incredible ball-striking, Abhishek reached fifty off 22 balls before extending it to a blistering 32-ball 82. His ruthless assault flattened the Afghan bowling attack and put India in cruise control from the get-go. Partnering with Ishan Kishan (42) in an explosive 121-run stand, Abhishek ensured India made a complete mockery of the 157-run target, cruising home with 38 balls to spare and taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. After winning the toss, India struck almost immediately as Bumrah extracted steep bounce, forcing a simple catch off Gurbazs glove edge to Abhishek Sharma at first slip. Arshdeep provided support from the other end, but Sediqullah Atal produced brief fireworks in the third over, hitting a boundary and a flat six off Bumrah. But Afghanistans momentum was quickly halted when Zadran was run out after being caught short of his crease by a sharp throw from Ishan Kishan. Arshdeep then removed Atal when his mis-timed stroke was caught comfortably at gully. With spin introduced early in the bowling attack, Axar made an instant impact by sending Gulbadin Naib to point, while Chakaravarthy, returning to the international fold, struck in his opening over, cleaning up Darwish Rasooli with a skidding delivery that rattled the leg stump. From 43/5, veteran Nabi (33 off 27 balls) and Omarzai then stabilised the innings with a steady partnership. With Reddy not in his element, Nabi and Omarzai had no trouble hitting him and Abhishek for boundaries, including the former producing a magnificent straight six off the seam-bowling all-rounder. But Nabi fell to Arshdeep's clever change of pace when a slower ball left his stumps in disarray. Arshdeep quickly added a third to his tally by removing Rashid Khan, while a sharp direct hit from Shreyas Iyer ran out Noor Ahmad in the 19th over. After completing his fifty off 39 balls, Omarzai took full charge in the final over bowled by Dube, smashing him for two massive sixes over long-on and deep extra cover, before Mujeeb Ur Rahman hit successive boundaries off him to take Afghanistan past 150, a target that had seemed a distant prospect in the seventh over of the innings. In the chase, India were in cruise control from the outset. Sanju Samson set the early tone with a flick and loft off Fazalhaq Farooqi. But the flick eventually brought Samsons downfall, as he was too early into his shot and was caught by deep square leg off Omarzai. But Abhishek, who got off the mark with an inside-out loft off Mujeeb Ur Rahman, launched an all-out assault after lofting and pulling Omarzai for boundaries, he tore into Farooqi. He first lofted him over cover for a crisp six before walloping a slower bouncer into the deep midwicket stand. He looted 26 runs off the fifth over from Farooqi, alongside Kishan, who launched him for a mammoth second-tier six, before backing away to carve another boundary over point. Mohammad Nabis spin as Abhishek got a streaky slice past gully for four, before swatting him over mid-on for six as India got 82 runs off the power-play. Abhishek brought up Indias century and his 12th T20I fifty off just 22 balls with a gentle tuck to the leg side, before tearing into Rashid Khan - after stepping out to launch a towering six over mid-wicket, he ended the ninth over with a flat-batted hit over deep extra cover. Abhisheks relentless assault when he pulled a skiddy length ball from Noor Ahmad over wide long-on for six, before leaning into a gorgeous lofted drive going over deep extra cover for another maximum, even as Kishan drilled one past the wrist-spinner for four. After leaving Afghanistan fielders shocked by slog-sweeping Nabi for six, Abhishek couldnt get hold of a full toss and holed out to long-on, who took a reverse-cupped catch before sliding on the ground. Abhisheks relentless assault when he pulled a skiddy length ball from Noor Ahmad over wide long-on for six, before leaning into a gorgeous lofted drive going over deep extra cover for another maximum, even as Kishan drilled one past the wrist-spinner for four. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Brief Scores: Afghanistan 156/8 in 20 overs (Azmatullah Omarzai 64 not out, Mohammad Nabi 33; Arshdeep Singh 3-19, Varun Chakaravarthy 1-16) lost to India 157/3 in 13.4 overs (Abhishek Sharma 82, Ishan Kishan 42; Mohammad Nabi 2-28, Azmatullah Omarzai 1-14) by 7 wickets. Article Source: IANS
India dominate Sri Lanka to win Women's Asia Cup, register stellar 72-run win to clinch title
The Indian team took on Sri Lanka in the final of the Womens Asia Cup 2026. The two sides met at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on September 13th, and the clash saw India register a brilliant win in the clash, defeating Sri Lanka by 72 runs and clinching the title.
Asia Cup final PIX: Mandhana, Shafali power India to imposing total in Asia Cup final
Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana's explosive partnership propelled India to 183/5 in the Women's T20I Asia Cup final against Sri Lanka. Despite a late slowdown, their record-breaking fifties laid a strong foundation for India's innings.
1st T20I: Abhishek Top-scores With 82 As India Beat Afghanistan By Seven Wickets
Arun Jaitley Stadium: Abhishek Sharma watched the ball like a hawk and left the Arun Jaitley Stadium drenched in a relentless deluge of sixes and fours. Propelled by his scintillating 22-ball half-century, which laid the foundation for a match-winning 82, India made a mockery of a 157-run chase, defeating Afghanistan by seven wickets and taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match T20I series. Chasing 157, after the bowlers held Afghanistan to 156/8, Abhishek took the Powerplay to leave the hosts' bowling attack completely flattened under a barrage of boundary hits from his willow in his 32-ball knock. He also shared a 121-run stand for the second wicket with Ishan Kishan (42 off 33 balls) to ensure India got home with 38 balls remaining. India were in cruise control from the outset. Sanju Samson set the early tone with a flick and loft off Fazalhaq Farooqi. But the flick eventually brought Samsons downfall, as he was too early into his shot and was caught by deep square leg off Azmatullah Omarzai. But Abhishek, who got off the mark with an inside-out loft off Mujeeb Ur Rahman, launched an all-out assault after lofting and pulling Omarzai for boundaries, he tore into Farooqi. He first lofted him over cover for a crisp six before walloping a slower bouncer into the deep midwicket stand. He looted 26 runs off the fifth over from Farooqi, alongside Kishan, who launched him for a mammoth second-tier six, before backing away to carve another boundary over point. Mohammad Nabis spin as Abhishek got a streaky slice past gully for four, before swatting him over mid-on for six as India got 82 runs off power-play. Abhishek brought up Indias century and his 12th T20I fifty off just 22 balls with a gentle tuck to the leg side, before tearing into Rashid Khan - after stepping out to launch a towering six over mid-wicket, he ended the ninth over with a flat-batted hit over deep extra cover. Abhisheks relentless assault when he pulled a skiddy length ball from Noor Ahmad over wide long-on for six, before leaning into a gorgeous lofted drive going over deep extra cover for another maximum, even as Kishan drilled one past the wrist-spinner for four. After leaving Afghanistan fielders shocked by slog-sweeping Nabi for six, Abhishek couldnt get hold of a full toss and holed out to long-on, who took a reverse-cupped catch before sliding on the ground. Abhisheks relentless assault when he pulled a skiddy length ball from Noor Ahmad over wide long-on for six, before leaning into a gorgeous lofted drive going over deep extra cover for another maximum, even as Kishan drilled one past the wrist-spinner for four. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Brief Scores: Afghanistan 156/8 in 20 overs (Azmatullah Omarzai 64 not out, Mohammad Nabi 33; Arshdeep Singh 3-19, Varun Chakaravarthy 1-16) lost to India 157/3 in 13.4 overs (Abhishek Sharma 82, Ishan Kishan 42; Mohammad Nabi 2-28, Azmatullah Omarzai 1-14) by seven wickets Article Source: IANS
Abhishek lights up Delhi as India cruise past Afghanistan
Omarzai's half-century took Afghanistan to 157 but it proved insufficient with India chasing down the target in 13.4 overs
The Indian opening pair of Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana continued to make history as India posted a challenging total against Sri Lanka in the Women's Asia Cup final
India thrashed Afghanistan by nine wickets to win the first T20I of the three-match series at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi. Star batter Abhishek Sharma stole the show with a 22-ball half-century, while...
The Indian team took on Afghanistan in the first T20I of the ongoing three-game series. The two sides met at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi for the clash on September 13, and the game...
PIX: Arshdeep shines as India restrict Afghanistan
Arshdeep Singh's impressive 3/19 spell, supported by Jasprit Bumrah and spinners Varun Chakravarthy and Axar Patel, helped India restrict Afghanistan to 156/8 in the first T20I. Despite a strong partnership between Azmatullah Omarzai (64*) and Mohammed Nabi (33), India's bowlers maintained control, with Arshdeep delivering crucial breakthroughs.
Women's Asia Cup Final: Deepti credits Shafali, Mandhana for strong total
Digital Desk | Dubai, Sep 13 (IANS) India all-rounder Deepti Sharma heaped praise on the record 129-run stand between openers Shafali Verma and vice-captain Smriti Mandhana for providing the platform for the Women in Blue to post a strong total of 183/5 in the Asia Cup 2026 final against Sri Lanka at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday. Deepti highlighted that the Indian team had hoped to get to 180-190, as the pitch in Dubai was better to bat on in the final. We were looking for 180 or 190, because it's a good wicket to bat on. Today it's a slightly better pitch, and credit goes to both the openers, how they played in the first six overs, and how they accelerated in the first 10 overs. It's good to see, Deepti told broadcasters after the first innings. Deepti highlighted that the first few overs in the second innings will be crucial and India will want a few wickets in the powerplay to stake their claim to defend the target. It's quite important. We are looking for a few wickets in the early stage. That's going to (give) the momentum, she said, referring to how crucial the powerplay would be for India. Deepti further opined that the ball is unlikely to stick into the surface, with this being a better surface for the willow-holders. As I said, today is a different wicket to bat on, but we have a good bowling side. I'm looking forward to it. (How does the support from the massive crowd feel?) It's great whenever the fans come and support. It brings the energy, the all-rounder concluded. Shafali (68 from 39 balls) smashed the fastest fifty in the history of the Asia Cup as she got to her milestone in just 24 balls to give the Women in Blue a strong platform along with Mandhana, who made a composed 59 from 39 deliveries. The two put up a 129-run stand for the opening wicket as India bossed the first half of the innings after opting to bat first. However, Sri Lanka made a comeback in the later part of the innings with Chamari Athapaththu, Mithali Ayodhya and Chamudi Praboda getting wickets, while the Women in Blue lost Mandhana and Deepti to run-outs. The 129-run stand is now the highest in a final of a Women's T20 tournament, going past the previous highest of 120, put up by Hayley Matthews and Stafanie Taylor in the 2016 Women's T20 World Cup 2016 win against Australia. It is also the highest in the Women's T20 Asia Cup for any wicket, surpassing the 128-run stand by Jemimah Rodrigues and Deepti Sharma, which came against the UAE in 2022. India went down from 129/0 to 167/5 as Kamalini gave the final bit of fireworks. She made 15 from five balls and hit a four and a six on the final two balls of the innings as India took 16 off the final over to finish with a strong total in the final.
Taylor, Cremer Make Surprise Returns As Zimbabwe Name Squad For Australia ODIs
Harare Sports Club: Zimbabwe will use Australias first ODI visit to Harare in more than a decade as an important marker in their preparations for the 2027 World Cup, with Sikandar Raza taking charge of a 15-member squad that also brings two familiar names back into the fold. Raza has been handed the captaincy for the three-match series in the absence of regular skipper Richard Ngarava, who continues to recover from a lower-back injury. The two sides will meet at Harare Sports Club on September 15, 18 and 20, with the series offering Zimbabwe a chance to measure their developing side against one of the leading teams in world cricket. The most notable feature of the squad, however, is the return of Brendan Taylor and Graeme Cremer. Taylor, 40, is back in the ODI setup after featuring in two matches against Sri Lanka in 2025 following a four-year international hiatus. Zimbabwes second-highest ODI run-scorer, the wicketkeeper-batter is just 81 runs away from overtaking Andy Flower as the countrys leading run-getter in the format. Cremers inclusion is equally significant. The former Zimbabwe captain is set to make his first ODI appearance since 2018, returning to the format after featuring in the countrys T20I setup, including at the T20 World Cup earlier this year. His only previous ODI against Australia came during the 2011 World Cup. The hosts will nevertheless have to cope without several established players. Besides Ngarava, Tendai Chatara is unavailable with an Achilles tendon injury, while Tanaka Chivanga is also sidelined with the same injury. Wicketkeeper-batter Clive Madande, who played in Zimbabwes most recent ODI series against Bangladesh in July, has not been included. Tadiwanashe Marumani provides an alternative wicketkeeping option, while Brian Bennett, Ben Curran and Innocent Kaia are among the principal batting choices alongside Taylor, Raza and Craig Ervine. The bowling attack will be spearheaded by Blessing Muzarabani, with Brad Evans, Newman Nyamhuri and Ernest Masuku providing pace support. Cremer and Wellington Masakadza add specialist spin, while Ryan Burl and Wessly Madhevere strengthen the all-round options. Tadiwanashe Marumani provides an alternative wicketkeeping option, while Brian Bennett, Ben Curran and Innocent Kaia are among the principal batting choices alongside Taylor, Raza and Craig Ervine. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Zimbabwe squad for the Australia ODIs: Sikandar Raza (Captain), Ben Curran, Blessing Muzarabani, Brad Evans, Brendan Taylor, Brian Bennett, Craig Ervine, Ernest Masuku, Graeme Cremer, Innocent Kaia, Newman Nyamhuri, Ryan Burl, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Wellington Masakadza, Wessly Madhevere Article Source: IANS
1st T20I: Omarzais late counter-attacking fifty takes Afghanistan to 156/8 against India
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 13 (IANS) Seam-bowling all-rounder Azmatullah Omarzai mounted a sensational late counter-attack by hitting 64 not out to propel Afghanistan to a respectable 156/8 after the hosts suffered an early batting collapse against India in the first T20I here at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Sunday. Jasprit Bumrah made an immediate impact on his return to international action after India elected to bowl by removing Rahmanullah Gurbaz for a duck in the opening over. Ibrahim Zadran and Sediqullah Atal briefly steadied the innings before a middle-order slide led to Afghanistan being reduced to 43/5 in seven overs. But Afghanistan mounted a recovery through Omarzai and Mohammad Nabi, as they shared an 83-run partnership off 56 balls. Following Nabi's departure for 33, Afghanistan lost further wickets in quick succession, but Omarzai hung around to push the total past 150 through an unbeaten 64 off 44 balls, laced with four boundaries and as many sixes. Left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh was Indias standout bowler with figures of 3-19, while Bumrah had 1-26. Spinners Axar Patel and Varun Chakaravarthy maintained a tight stump-to-stump line and picked up a wicket apiece to keep the pressure on Afghanistan. What would concern India, though, was the fifth-bowler quota shared among Nitish Kumar Reddy, Abhishek Sharma, and Shivam Dube, who conceded 59 runs at an economy rate of 14.75. After winning the toss, India struck almost immediately as Bumrah extracted steep bounce to force a simple catch off Gurbazs glove edge to Abhishek Sharma at first slip. Arshdeep provided support from the other end, but Sediqullah Atal produced brief fireworks in the third over, picking up a boundary and a flat six off Bumrah. But Afghanistans momentum was quickly halted when Zadran was caught short of his crease following a sharp throw from Ishan Kishan. Arshdeep then removed Atal when his mis-timed stroke was caught comfortably by gully. With spin introduced early in the bowling attack, Axar made an instant impact when Gulbadin Naib to point, while Chakaravarthy, returning to the international fold, struck in his opening over by cleaning up Darwish Rasooli with a skidding delivery that rattled the leg stump. From 43/5, veteran Nabi (33 off 27 balls) and Omarzai then stabilised the innings with a steady partnership. With Reddy not in his elements, Nabi and Omarzai had no issues in hitting him and Abhishek for boundaries, including the former producing a magnificent straight six off the seam-bowling all-rounder. But Nabi fell to Arshdeep's clever change of pace when a slower ball left his stumps in a mess. Arshdeep quickly added a third to his tally by removing Rashid Khan, while a sharp direct hit from Shreyas Iyer ran out Noor Ahmad in the 19th over. After completing his fifty in 39 balls, Omarzai took full charge in the final over bowled by Dube by smashing him for two massive sixes over long-on and deep extra cover, before Mujeeb Ur Rahman took successive boundaries off him to take Afghanistan past 150, something which looked a distant possibility in the seventh over of the innings. Brief Scores: Afghanistan 156/8 in 20 overs (Azmatullah Omarzai 64 not out, Mohammad Nabi 33; Arshdeep Singh 3-19, Varun Chakaravarthy 1-16) against India
PIX: Antonelli wins Spanish GP, extends Formula One lead
Kimi Antonelli claimed his eighth victory of the season at the Madrid Grand Prix, extending his Formula One championship lead to 81 points. The Italian driver benefited from a timely Virtual Safety Car deployment and a problematic pitstop for pole-sitter Lando Norris, who had been leading comfortably. Max Verstappen finished second, with Norris recovering to secure third place after the unfortunate incident.
Women's Asia Cup final: Shafali Verma slams fastest fifty in continental showpiece
Digital Desk | Dubai, Sep 13 (IANS) India star batter Shafali Verma on Sunday smashed the fastest half-century in the history of the Women's Asia Cup as she completed her fifty off just 24 balls in the 2026 final against Sri Lanka at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Shafali turned on her beast mode after India opted to bat first in the title clash. The young opening batter, along with Smriti Mandhana, provided another strong start to the Women in Blue in the final. While Shafali took four balls to get off the mark, she took apart the Sri Lankan bowlers once she saw off the first few deliveries. She kept smashing the opposition and completed her fifty in just 24 balls with a four in the eighth over off Kavisha Dilhari. This was her 21st T20I fifty and the fastest in Asia Cup history, surpassing her opening partner's 25-ball record. Fastest fifties in Women's T20 Asia Cup: 24 - Shafali Verma (IND-W) vs SL-W, Dubai, 2026 25 - Smriti Mandhana (IND-W) vs SL-W, Sylhet, 2022 26 - Richa Ghosh (IND-W) vs UAE-W, Dambulla, 2024 26 - Shafali Verma (IND-W) vs NEP-W, Dambulla, 2024 26 - Shafali Verma (IND-W) vs THA-W, Dubai, 2026 This was also Shafali's third fifty in the ongoing tournament, which is now also the joint-most in a single edition of the Women's T20 Asia Cup, level with Sri Lanka captain Chamari Athapaththu, who also smacked four fifties in the victorious 2024 tournament. India won the toss earlier as captain Harmanpreet opted to bat first. G Kamalini came in for Pratika Rawal as the only change for the Women in Blue. We are going to bat first. It's a very important game for us; put up a score on the board. Every final is important; there is pressure, but we need to play good cricket. We have one change: Pratika is resting, and Kamalini is playing, India captain Kaur said at the toss.
Where Does He Stand? Dinesh Karthik Seeks Clarity On Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's Role
The India vs Afghanistan first T20I is underway in New Delhi. For the opening match of the three-match series, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has not been picked in the playing XI
Prime Minister Narendra Modi: In a historic first, India's national song Vande Mataram was played at the Arun Jaitley Stadium ahead of the national anthems of both India and Afghanistan before the first T20I began on Sunday. As players from both sides lined up on the field prior to the match, the venue echoed with Vande Mataram before the Indian national anthem, Jana Gana Mana, was played. The national anthem of Afghanistan was also performed as part of the pre-match protocol. The move comes a month after the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) issued comprehensive guidelines regarding the observance and rendition of Vande Mataram, which translates to Mother, I Bow to Thee. According to the initial MHA directive issued on January 28, the ministry notified the first formal set of protocols for singing the national song, directing that six stanzas of it be sung at official functions. The main rule also states that the National Anthem must be played after the National Song, which has a set duration of 190 seconds, the directive specified, adding that people must be attentive when the song is played at official events. The guidelines issued by the MHA listed a set of events and situations in which the national song had to be sung before the national anthem, but they originally did not explicitly include sporting events. Vande Mataram was sung in full for the first time on August 15, 2026, after Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered his Independence Day speech at the Red Fort, with a run time of three minutes and 20 seconds. Written and published in Bengali by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee in 1875 and later published in 1882 as part of his famous novel Anandamath, Vande Mataram holds an iconic place in India's freedom struggle. Vande Mataram was sung in full for the first time on August 15, 2026, after Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered his Independence Day speech at the Red Fort, with a run time of three minutes and 20 seconds. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories You can see the Home Ministry guidelines, in which every event happening in the country has to have Vande Mataram sung before the national anthem. Everyone involved in the conduct of the game was aware of this, a DDCA official told IANS. Article Source: IANS
Ngarava ruled out, Raza takes charge for Australia ODIs
Veteran batter Taylor is back, along with Cremer as Ngarava continues his recovery from a lower-back injury
All-round Bosch puts South Africa 2-0 up
Tunnicliffe made a half-century and Naidu took a three-for as Zimbabwe fell to a 64-run loss
Womens Asia Cup: 'Not Taking Sri Lanka Lightly, Focus On Ourselves, Says Deepti Ahead Of Final
Dubai International Cricket Stadium: India's star all-rounder Deepti Sharma said that India-Sri Lanka matches are always good games, and that they are not in the mood to take the defending Asia Cup champions lightly, as they meet them in the 2026 final at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday. India and Sri Lanka are facing each other for the third straight time in the Asia Cup finals, with both sides winning one final each. While India have had the upper hand over Sri Lanka, Deepti remained cautious about not taking the opponent lightly. We all know they have a good side and they have, (they have) good youngsters also coming up in the Asia Cup. So, it's a good team, and whenever we play against them, we have good matches against them, Deepti told broadcasters ahead of the start of the final. Having played against them in the last few matches, we remember they are a good side. So, obviously, we'll not take any team lightly, and obviously Sri Lanka. But we always focus on ourselves, how we can do better things, and we'll approach the same thing as we have done before in this Asia Cup, she added. Deepti was asked whether she could give a glimpse of her plans for the final against Sri Lanka. The all-rounder kept her cards close to her chest, but admitted that she has plans. I can't share it here, obviously. But yeah, we planned something for the finals, and we watched that game (semifinal against Pakistan) as well, she said. The middle overs have been crucial in this tournament, with sides not posting big totals, except India. Deepti highlighted that all 40 overs are crucial for winning the game. Actually, I think all 40 overs decide the game because sometimes in the powerplay, the ball comes really good, but sometimes it doesn't. But we always have to be ready. And we know (these conditions) because we played a lot here, 3-4 games before this. So, we know how the ball is behaving, how the ball is coming to the bat. So, it's going to be exciting, she said. The middle overs have been crucial in this tournament, with sides not posting big totals, except India. Deepti highlighted that all 40 overs are crucial for winning the game. Actually, I think all 40 overs decide the game because sometimes in the powerplay, the ball comes really good, but sometimes it doesn't. But we always have to be ready. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Earlier, India won the toss and opted to bat first. Skipper Harmanpreet Kaur confirmed the only change to the team, with G Kamalini replacing Pratika Rawal. Article Source: IANS
Jasprit Bumrah scripts history, achieves major milestone with early wicket against Afghanistan
The Indian team took on Afghanistan in the first T20I of the ongoing three-game series between the two sides. The teams met at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi for the clash on September 13,...
BCCI set to discuss contract renewal with Agarkar
India bat and bring in Kamalini for Rawal; Gunaratne back for Sri Lanka
This will be Kamalini's second T20I appearance
First in Indian Cricket! Vande Mataram Before National Anthem
For the first time in an Indian men's cricket match, the national song Vande Mataram was played before the national anthem, Jana Gana Mana, during the India vs Afghanistan T20I in Delhi, sparking widespread reaction among fans.
National Song Vande Mataram Played Before India-Afghanistan T20I in Historic First
The first India vs Afghanistan T20I in New Delhi on Sunday witnessed a historic first
India vs Afghanistan first T20I: India opt to bowl first
India preferred the experience of Sanju Samson over batting prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, while pacer Jasprit Bumrah returned to the playing XI
Womens Asia Cup final: India elect to bat against Sri Lanka
India bring in G. Kamalini for Pratika Rawal, while Sri Lanka has Vishmi Gunaratne coming in for Kawya Kavind
1st T20I: Afghanistan a very good side, expecting a tough three-match series, says Dube
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 13 (IANS) Indias seam-bowling all-rounder Shivam Dube said Afghanistan, their opponents in the three-game T20I series getting underway at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, are a very good side who are capable of pushing the hosts hard. Its the first time Afghanistan are hosting India in a T20I series, though it's happening in Indias national capital. They are a very good side. Its going to be a very good three-match series. Every match would be a challenge for us, I think, and well accept, Dube said in a pre-game chat with the broadcasters. Reflecting on his recent run in the format for India, Dube said, Its amazing. Life is always good. God is always kind to me and the BCCI and the coaches, the selectors, captain, everyone is supporting me. It looks good, and feels very confident on the ground. So I'm enjoying everything. Entering tough situations with a positive mindset has been central to Dube's approach, with the six-hitter stating that contributing to Indias victories remains his primary drive. Whenever you contribute for your country and the country wins, thats always a special thing for any player who plays for the country. So I always try and think that, okay, today is something I can do, I can help my team to do a little better than what they want. So this is always my thought, to be in a positive way and accept whatever the challenges are there. While continuing to shine in the shortest format, Dube is also keen on refining his game for 50-over cricket. Definitely its a different game because the T20s we play, we want to score runs. But when we played the 50-over game, we wanted to survive and score the runs in England. But yes, its not a T20 game and the one dayers are probably a different game. Probably a different mindset is needed and a challenge for fitness as well. So, working on everything, trying to get better in one-days as well and yes, want to be part of all these, he concluded.
India bowl, leave out Sooryavanshi for Abhishek and Samson
Bumrah and Varun return to join Arshdeep as specialist bowlers in the bowling attack
Women's Asia Cup: Kamalini Replaces Pratika As India Opt To Bat Against Sri Lanka In Final
Dubai International Cricket Stadium: India captain Harmanpreet Kaur won the toss and opted to bat first against Sri Lanka in the Women's Asia Cup 2026 final here at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday. India made a change to their XI for the first time this tournament after Kaur won her maiden toss in the 2026 Asia Cup as the Women in Blue brought in G Kamalini for Pratika Rawal. This will be Kamalini's as she got her first game of the tournament and only her second T20I for India. India and Sri Lanka are both undefeated in the ongoing tournament, with the Women in Blue having looked far more dominant than Sri Lanka. India have tamed every other opponent with superb all-round performance, while Sri Lanka have been found wanting in the batting department. Their top-order batters have not been at the top of their game, including captain Chamari Athapaththu, who has only 63 runs from four innings. Meanwhile, India have looked far more dominant in all the departments, with Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana doing the bulk of the scoring. Deepti Sharma and Shree Charani have been highly penetrative with the ball, with 11 and eight wickets, respectively. India are looking for a record-extending eighth Asia Cup title after winning four continental tournaments in the ODI format and three in T20Is. The Women in Blue have a very strong record against Sri Lanka and swept them in a five-match T20I series last year in December. They have also won nine of their previous 10 T20Is against Sri Lanka, but their only defeat came in the 2024 Asia Cup final in Dambulla. Yeah, we are going to bat first today. I feel it's a very important game for us, and I think having a score on the board is always positive. That is the reason we decided as a group that we'll bat first, India captain Kaur said at the toss. Every final is very important, and at the same time, there is a lot of pressure. I think today's game is about playing good cricket, staying in the moment and giving your best. We do have one change. Pratika is resting today; Kamini is back. She has a lot of ability, and hopefully she'll enjoy herself today. We are not keeping a specific target in mind. It's all about using the batting power-play and then see how much we can get, she added. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka have also made a change to their XI for the final with Vishmi Gunaratne coming in for Sanjana Kavindi. If we won the toss, definitely we would have bowl first, because we back our skills. Last few games we have bowled really good. Actually, it's a really good thing for me as well as the team. As a country, we need to improve our cricket all the time. So we have good players. We will stick with our plans and we'll try to play positive cricket in the middle. We are going with one change: Vishmi Gunaratne is playing in place of Sanjana Kavindi. I felt we needed some experience. (The) first six overs (are) very crucial. So if we can get early (wickets), I think (there will be) pressure on them, Sri Lankan skipper Athapaththu said at the toss. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka have also made a change to their XI for the final with Vishmi Gunaratne coming in for Sanjana Kavindi. If we won the toss, definitely we would have bowl first, because we back our skills. Last few games we have bowled really good. Actually, it's a really good thing for me as well as the team. As a country, we need to improve our cricket all the time. So we have good players. We will stick with our plans and we'll try to play positive cricket in the middle. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Sri Lanka: Chamari Athapaththu(c), Imesha Dulani, Vishmi Gunaratne, Hasini Perera, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Kavisha Dilhari, Nilakshika Silva, Kaushani Nuthyangana(w), Sugandika Kumari, Chamudi Praboda, Mithali Ayodhya Article Source: IANS
India vs Sri Lanka Free Live Streaming, Women's Asia Cup Final Live Telecast: When And Where To Watch
India Women vs Sri Lanka Women LIVE Score Updates, Women's Asia Cup Final: India have won the toss and opted to bat against reigning champions Sri Lanka in the final.
IND-W vs SL-W, Women's Asia Cup 2026 final LIVE Score: India women opt to bat first in Dubai
India women and Sri Lanka women are all set to take on each other in the summit clash of the ongoing Women's Asia Cup 2026. The two sides meet at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium...
1st T20I: Bumrah, Nitish, Varun Return As India Bowl Against Afghanistan
Nitish Kumar Reddy: Jasprit Bumrah, Nitish Kumar Reddy, and Varun Chakaravarthy have made a return to Indias playing eleven as captain Shreyas Iyer won the toss and elected to bowl first against Afghanistan in the first of three T20Is here at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Sunday. Its the first time Afghanistan are hosting India in an away T20I series, which makes them the designated hosts here till Thursday. India have been dominant in T20I meetings against Afghanistan so far, with eight wins out of nine matches. Ahead of the toss, a unique coin was unveiled, and Iyer gave a special jersey to his counterpart Ibrahim Zadran. After winning the toss, designated visiting captain Iyer said young batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi missed out on a spot in the side, with Sanju Samson returning to open the batting alongside Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan continuing to bat at number three. India are also boosted by the return of Bumrah, Reddy and Chakaravarthy, who missed out on a lot of cricketing action in the last few months due to injuries to the knee, quadriceps and hamstring, respectively. Winning the toss, Iyer said, When you have played in Delhi, you do know what the pitch has got to offer and weve played quite a bit of matches over here. So based on that and looking at the conditions, thats really both. Its been a rollercoaster ride (as T20I captain), but if you see the previous series which we played against Zimbabwe, there were a lot of positives and the boys were optimistic in their approach. So thats the attitude we got to carry in this series as well. Its a luxury to have him (Bumrah) in the squad because hes immensely experienced and he carries a lot of great attitude when it comes to winning matches. So we know hes a match-winner and we know what hes got to offer. Zadran, captaining Afghanistan in T20Is for the first time, said pacer Naveen-ul-Haq is still not match-fit, and his availability for the coming games will be decided later. We had decided to bowl first. Unfortunately, we lost the toss and we will think about batting. We will try to put a good total on the board. It's a great feeling for us. It is a pleasure to host India, here in India for the first time. We are trying to enjoy ourselves, trying to have a good series against them. We have got lots of support from the fans in the past as well, and just requesting them to come and support both teams. I hope they don't forget us, but hopefully they come and support their own player, their own team, and give their energy to the players. Naveen is not ready for todays game and we will think about him for the second and third game, the Afghan skipper stated. Playing XIs I hope they don't forget us, but hopefully they come and support their own player, their own team, and give their energy to the players. Naveen is not ready for todays game and we will think about him for the second and third game, the Afghan skipper stated. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories India: Sanju Samson (wk), Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer (captain), Tilak Varma (vice-captain), Nitish Kumar Reddy, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah and Varun Chakaravarthy Article Source: IANS
India have dropped young sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi from the opening game of the three-match T20I series against Afghanistan at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi. The 15-year-old was adjudged the Player of the Series...
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has not been picked for the first India vs Afghanistan T20I at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi
Sacked From Pakistan Team, Salman Ali Agha Makes Massive Statement With 300 Off 336 Balls
A few days back, Salman Ali Agha was among the seven players who were sent back from England after Pakistan lost the first two Tests
Fortuin Fires South Africa to ODI Series Sweep Over Namibia
Bjorn Fortuin's four-wicket haul sparked Namibia's collapse before Jordan Hermann and Connor Esterhuizen powered South Africa's chase, sealing a commanding nine-wicket win and 3-0 ODI series sweep.
Ajit Agarkar's 'Final' Selection Meeting May Hand KL Rahul Bigger Leadership Role
Seasoned KL Rahul could be named India's vice-captain for the upcoming three-match ODI series against the West Indies, starting September 27
Smriti Mandhana Opens Up On 'Crying', Makes Big Revelation On Personal Life
Indian women's cricket superstar Smriti Mandhana revealed some moments that made her emotional.
IND vs AFG, 1st T20I LIVE Score: India aim to get off to good start to the series
Afghanistan hosts India in a three-match T20I series, starting September 13 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi. The series marks the return of Jasprit Bumrah, who missed the two-match Test series against Sri...
India vs Afghanistan Free Live Telecast, 1st T20I Live Streaming: Where And Where To Watch
India vs Afghanistan Free Live Telecast, 1st T20I Live Streaming: Where And Where To Watch Vaibhav Sooryavanshi And Co.
India vs Afghanistan 1st T20I Live Score: This is India's final international assignment before the Asian Games 2026.
Jordan Hermann, Connor Esterhuizen Hit Fifties As South Africa Crush Namibia
Openers Jordan Hermann and Connor Esterhuizen scored half-centuries as South Africa hammered Namibia by nine wickets on Sunday to complete the sweep of three one-day internationals. South Africa are third in the ODI rankings and second-tier cricket nation Namibia 16th, and the gulf in class was demonstrated in Windhoek over five days. The visitors won the rain-shortened first ODI by 99 runs and the second by 157 runs with the same squad that won a preceding Twenty20 tri-series involving Namibia and Zimbabwe. Hermann and Esterhuizen, two of the players given opportunities in a young, experimental South African side, have starred in the ODI series. Both struck centuries in earlier matches. On Sunday, Hermann top scored with 77 and Esterhuizen was unbeaten on 68 as South Africa, chasing 157 to win, reached the target for the loss of only one wicket after 21.3 overs. Hermann fell after facing 59 balls when a low, angled delivery from seamer Waldo Smith uprooted the stumps. His knock included 13 fours. Esterhuizen hit three sixes and four fours off 68 deliveries before Dewald Brevis sealed victory through a fiercely struck six. Namibia won the toss and posted 156 with wicketkeeper Zane Green the last man out after top scoring with 33 runs. The innings ended when a Green chip eluded the covers, but not captain Bjorn Fortuin, who dashed from extra cover to make a spectacular diving catch. Spinner Fortuin (4-33) was the most successful South African bowler and is in the squad that will host world champions Australia in a three-match ODI series from September 24. Brief scores Namibia 156 in 36.2 overs (Z. Green 33, A. Busing-Volschenk 31; B. Fortuin 4-33) v South Africa 157-1 in 21.3 overs (J. Hermann 77, C. Esterhuizen 68 not out) Result: South Africa won by nine wickets Toss: Namibia Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Series: South Africa won 3-0
India vs Sri Lanka, Women's Asia Cup 2026 final Pitch Report, how will surface in Dubai play?
India is all set to take on Sri Lanka in the Womens Asia Cup 2026 final. The two sides will meet at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on September 13th, and both sides will hope...
Fortuin, Hermann, Esterhuizen headline South Africa's 3-0 sweep of Namibia
Fortuin bagged a career-best 4 for 33 while Hermann and Esterhuizen added 150 runs as South Africa razed down Namibia's 157 target inside 22 overs
Marcus Trescothick Unsure Of Future With England Test Side
Sri Lanka T20I: Marcus Trescothick is uncertain about his future with the England Test side, as Stephen Fleming is set to take over as the permanent head coach. Trescothick served as the interim head coach of the Three Lions during their recent historic 3-0 home victory over Pakistan, following Brendon McCullum's departure from the position and Fleming's upcoming appointment for the winter South Africa series. Trescothick, who has served as McCullum's assistant coach, is unsure whether he can remain with Fleming's backroom staff once the New Zealander arrives in the UK in the coming days. No, not really, Trescothick said when asked whether he had an idea of his Test role in the future, as quoted by Cricinfo. I've spoken with Rob Key a little bit over the last couple of weeks and had bits of discussions on what might happen. I think when Stephens (Fleming) over and then they - Rob and Stephen and Brendon - can get together and really sort of thrash out exactly how it's going to look, then we'll probably be involved in those sort of conversations afterwards. He will now be heading to Southampton to join white-ball coach McCullum for the Sri Lanka T20I series, along with fellow assistants Sarah Taylor, Tim Southee and Jeetan Patel, while Kevin Pietersen will also arrive for his role as specialist mentor of the white-ball side. Our immediate plan is obviously then looking at the Sri Lanka series we're now straight into, with the possibility of going maybe into Pakistan. But I think within the next couple of weeks we'll know a bit more. I love doing both formats. It's been brilliant and (I'm) privileged to be in the position of being assistant coach where you're on the road because it's great fun and you're with the team and you're working with the best. There's nothing better than working with your own national country, of course. But we'll see. We'll see how it pans out. Meanwhile, England Test captain Joe Root heaped praise on Trescothick for his role with the side in the Pakistan series. I think the way that he's worked with me, the way that he's worked with the group, has been outstanding, Root said. And I hope he takes a lot of confidence from it and if he ever gets the opportunity to be a head coach further down the line, it's been great for him and he's done a brilliant job over the course of the three games. I love doing both formats. It's been brilliant and (I'm) privileged to be in the position of being assistant coach where you're on the road because it's great fun and you're with the team and you're working with the best. There's nothing better than working with your own national country, of course. But we'll see. We'll see how it pans out. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories We want to try and promote our own from within and get them up to the top because there's nothing better, I don't think, than if you can get to that point. It's not the be all and end all. But, I think, as much as we can have the representation in there, then the better it'll be. Article Source: IANS
South Africa Suffer Injury Blow As Ottneil Baartman Ruled Out Of Australia ODI Series
Pacer Ottneil Baartman has been ruled out of South Africa's ODI series against Australia after sustaining a left hamstring injury during the opening first-class match of the season.
15-year-old sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is set to break a huge record if he plays for India in the T20I series against Afghanistan.
India vs Sri Lanka Live Streaming: When And Where To Watch Women's Asia Cup 2026 Final
India vs Sri Lanka, Women's Asia Cup 2026 final Live Streaming: India would be keen to avoid past mistakes in a bid to beat the defending champions Sri Lanka.
The stage is set for the summit clash of the ongoing Womens Asia Cup 2026. India women will be taking on Sri Lanka women in the final and will hope to get their hands on...
Arora's ton, Bhaskar's 6-wicket haul fire Ludhiana Lions into Sher-E-Punjab final
Captain Salil Arora's blistering 120 and Sahil Bhaskar's sensational six-wicket haul (6/16) propelled Ludhiana Lions to a 17-run victory over Jalandhar Warriors, securing their spot in the Sher-E-Punjab T20 League final.
Trescothick set for discussions over future England role
Interim Test head coach uncertain if he will be part of Stephen Fleming's backroom staff
India vs Afghanistan Live Streaming, 1st T20I Live Telecast: When And Where To Watch Live
India vs Afghanistan 1st T20I Live Streaming: During the Afghanistan series, the entire focus will be on India's opening pair.
What Kind Of Players Do They Have? Dinesh Karthik Drops Unfiltered Verdict On Pakistan Team
Former India cricketer Dinesh Karthik is both sad and stunned to see the current state of cricketing affairs in Pakistan.
Ottneil Baartman ruled out of Australia ODIs due to hamstring injury, CSA announces replacement
In a major blow to South Africa, Ottneil Baartman, the sides star bowling all-rounder, has been ruled out of the upcoming ODI series against Australia due to a hamstring injury. It is worth noting that Baartman sustained the injury in the first-class season opener, playing for the Dolphins.
All set for the trophy: Harmanpreet backs India to perform their best in Asia Cup final
Digital Desk | Dubai, Sep 13 (IANS) India captain Harmanpreet Kaur believes her sides steady improvement across batting, bowling and fielding has put them in a strong position to challenge Sri Lanka in the Womens T20 Asia Cup final at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday. India have been unbeaten in the tournament and will be aiming to reclaim the continental title after Sri Lanka defeated them in the 2024 final. Harmanpreet said the team has adapted well to the conditions and produced encouraging performances throughout the campaign. I think so far the tournament has been really, really good for us. We have seen massive improvement, whether its batting, bowling, or fielding, day by day. Were getting used to these conditions and coming up with some really solid performances, Harmanpreet said in a BCCI video. With the title clash now at hand, the India skipper stressed that the team would not make drastic changes to its approach and would instead focus on remaining positive. All set for the trophy. Hopefully, well come up with some really positive approach, she said. The tournament has also seen several individual milestones for India, with Harmanpreet herself completing 150 matches as captain. The skipper believes having experienced players around her has provided the team with confidence. Every day were celebrating some great milestone, whether its Smritis runs or me representing the 150th game as a captain. So I think every day, it's good to see that so many girls are coming up with good performances and good milestones, she said. I think you need a team where you have so many members with so much experience. I think that gives me so much confidence, leading a side which has so many runs behind, wickets behind, she added Harmanpreet acknowledged the pressure that comes with representing India but said the teams focus would remain on contributing to the collective effort rather than getting distracted by expectations. Every game you represent your country, you have a lot of pressure. You have a lot of expectations. I think we always talk about just being there for the team and giving your best, she said. Just go there and execute yourself. I think when we do that, we always bring a lot of positivity on the field. India will also need to improve their fielding after dropping nine catches in four matches, while Sri Lanka enter the final with confidence after recovering from 33/4 to chase down 131 against Pakistan in the semifinal. Harmanpreet, however, wants her team to remain focused on its strengths and enjoy the occasion. Nothing new, nothing different, just sticking to our strength, to our plans and, at the same time, enjoying yourself on the field, she said.
Where to watch India vs Afghanistan first T20I live on TV and stream online in India?
Afghanistan are set to host India in a three-match T20I series, starting September 13 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi. The series serves as the perfect preparation for the Asian Games and also...
Baartman ruled out of Australia ODIs with hamstring injury, Duan Jansen named replacement
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 13 (IANS) South Africa have dealt with an injury blow ahead of the ODI series against Australia as right-arm medium pacer Ottneil Baartman has been ruled out of a three-match series, which starts on September 24 in Durban, due to a left hamstring injury. Duan Jansen has been named as his replacement and will join the squad and his brother Marco when they convene in Durban on September 19, Cricket South Africa said on Sunday. Baartman is the second player to miss out on the series after Kagiso Rabada was also made unavailable for the ODIs with a hamstring concern. CSA, however, will take a call on his availability for the three-Test series closer to its start on October 9. The Proteas have named a 16-member squad last week, which was as close to their available full strength as possible. Regular captain Temba Bavuma is back, while senior batters David Miller and Quinton de Kock are also part of the ODI series. The squad also sees the return of Gerald Coetzee, who last played an ODI in the 2023 World Cup, as he fills in the void left by Rabada, who is out of the ODIs and racing to be fit for the Tests due to his hamstring injury. Meanwhile, swashbuckling batter Dewald Brevis is not part of the squad as he will be preparing for the Test season, with him featuring in first-class cricket. Aiden Markram will be available for the second and third ODIs. South Africa ODI squad for Australia series: Temba Bavuma (capt), Duan Jansen, Corbin Bosch, Matthew Breetzke, Gerald Coetzee, Quinton de Kock, Tony de Zorzi, Bjorn Fortuin, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kwena Maphaka, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi or Sanju Samson, who will start for India against Afghanistan in first T20I?
Afghanistan host India in a three-match T20I series at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi. It's a perfect opportunity for both the teams to test the squad ahead of the upcoming Asian Games. However,...
Injured Baartman out of Australia ODIs, Duan Jansen named replacement
Baartman is the second South Africa player to be ruled out, after Kagiso Rabada
LSG Owner Sanjiv Goenka Spills Beans On 'Last Conversation' With Rishabh Pant
Lucknow Super Giants owner Sanjiv Goenka recently opened up about his relationship with wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant.
Joe Root hails England's 'excellent' response to chaotic summer
England Test captain Joe Root has lauded his side's 'excellent' response to an 'unusual summer' marked by a captaincy change, a new coach, and off-field incidents, following their dominant 3-0 series sweep against Pakistan.
Namibia opt to bat with two changes; SA bring in Corbin Bosch, Fortuin
South Africa will chase for the first time in the series while eyeing a clean sweep
New Delhi Weather Forecast for India vs Afghanistan: Rain Threat Looms Over Ind vs Afg 1st T20I
Rain could shape the opening night of the India vs Afghanistan T20I series in New Delhi on Sunday, but an improved drainage setup at the Arun Jaitley Stadium may prevent a long delay if showers are brief. The first match of
Bates, Green star as Tridents clinch last-gasp thriller
With Empress needing nine off the final over, Qiana Joseph sealed the win, conceding just five singles
