Sonal Dinusha Named ICC Player Of The Month After Stellar Performance Against India
Galle International Stadium: Sri Lankas young left-handed batter Sonal Dinusha has been named the ICC Mens Player of the Month for August 2026, earning the prestigious honour for the first time in his career after a sensational run of form against India. Dinusha was the standout performer in Sri Lankas two-match home Test series against India, which the hosts lost 1-0. He finished as the highest run-scorer from either side with 420 runs at an outstanding average of 140. The all-rounder began the series with a century in the opening Test at the Galle International Stadium. He followed it with a determined 84 in the second innings, even though Sri Lanka eventually lost by 165 runs. Dinusha delivered an even more impressive display in the second Test at the SSC Ground in Colombo. With Sri Lanka aiming to avoid a series sweep, he scored 103 in the first innings and was unbeaten on 133 in the second, helping the hosts secure a hard-fought draw. His performances saw him finish the series with three centuries and a half-century, and he was also named Player of the Match in Colombo. This recognition means so much to me, especially so early in my career, and Im truly grateful to the ICC for this honour. The series against India will always hold a special place in my heart. Scoring three centuries was a dream come true, made even more meaningful by achieving them in Colombo and Galle in front of our home fans, Dinusha said on the recognition. Although we didnt get the overall result we hoped for, the way our team fought back in the second match showed the character, belief and determination we have as a side. Im proud to have shared that fight with my teammates, he added. Dinusha, who made his Test debut against Bangladesh in a home series last year, has quickly established himself as a key player for Sri Lanka in the longest format. Representing Sri Lanka is a privilege I never take for granted, and this recognition gives me even more motivation to keep learning, improving and contributing to the team. Ill continue to give my very best for Sri Lanka in the months and years ahead, he said. Dinusha was shortlisted for the award alongside England seamer Ollie Robinson and Bangladesh fast bowler Hasan Mahmud. Robinson impressed during Englands home Test series against Pakistan, taking 16 wickets in August, including career-best figures of 8-80 in the opening Test at Headingley and 8-35 at Lords. Dinusha was shortlisted for the award alongside England seamer Ollie Robinson and Bangladesh fast bowler Hasan Mahmud. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories However, it was Dinushas remarkable batting exploits against India that earned him the ICC Mens Player of the Month award for August. Article Source: IANS
Labuschagne to captain Queensland in One-Day Cup before South Africa Tests
With his Test place in the balance, Labuschagne will captain Queensland against Victoria at Allan Border Field on Saturday
PCB Cyber Probe: Seized Phones to Determine Fate of Rizwan, Imam
The Lahore High Court dismissed Muhammad Rizwan's petition challenging notices from the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA). The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) awaits the NCCIA's forensic report on mobile phones seized from Rizwan and Imam-ul-Haq to decide on potential disciplinary action against the players.
Muneeba to miss Asian Games after flying home for mother's illness
The PCB won't name a replacement for Muneeba and Gull Feroza will keep wicket instead
Prithvi Shaw, Fiancee Akriti Agarwal Part Ways 6 Months After Engagement
Prithvi Shaw: Indian cricketer Prithvi Shaw and his fiancee Akriti Agarwal have decided to part ways, around six months after announcing their engagement, with Agarwal confirming the separation in a statement on social media on Thursday. Agarwal, a social media personality and actress, said the decision was mutual and came after the couple realised their future goals and circumstances differed. She also asked people to respect their privacy and refrain from speculation about the reasons for their decision. With a heavy heart, I would like to share that my fianc and I have decided to part ways due to different goals and circumstances for our future. As much as we love and care for each other, weve come to accept that our paths are not meant to be together. With our responsibilities and the circumstances we are currently facing, we have mutually decided to go our separate ways, Agarwal wrote on Instagram. I genuinely wish nothing but the best, peace, and happiness for both of us as we move forward. I kindly request everyone to respect our privacy during this difficult time and refrain from speculating or making assumptions about the reasons behind our decision. Thank you for understanding and respecting our space, she added. Shaw and Agarwal announced their engagement on March 8, with the India batter sharing a series of romantic pictures from the occasion. In one photograph, Shaw could be seen going down on one knee to propose to Agarwal, while another showed the couple displaying their engagement rings. From sixes on the field to a lifetime of hits off it. Shes my perfect innings! Shaw had captioned the post. The engagement came at a pivotal point in Shaws career, as he sought to rebuild his standing in domestic and franchise cricket. The right-handed batter, who made his India debut in 2018 with a century on his first Test against the West Indies, was bought by Delhi Capitals for Rs 75 lakh in the accelerated round of the IPL 2026 auction. However, Shaw did not play a single match in the 2026 IPL season. From sixes on the field to a lifetime of hits off it. Shes my perfect innings! Shaw had captioned the post. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Shaw has also removed his engagement photographs from his Instagram profile following the announcement. Article Source: IANS
India Women begin Asian Games title defence against Japan
Fresh from their record-extending Asia Cup triumph, defending champions India will begin their Asian Games title defence as overwhelming favourites against hosts Japan in the women's quarter-finals in Nagoya on Friday.
Asian Games 2026: Where To Watch Live Streaming And Telecast In India
The Asian Games: India are looking to build on its record-breaking medal haul from the previous edition in Hangzhou as the Asian Games 2026 officially gets underway in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan on Saturday. The Asian Games are the biggest sports competition in Asia, held once every four years. They are organised by the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA), and have 45 participating countries or regions. The Asian Games were first held in 1951 with 489 athlets particiapting from 11 in New Delhi. Since then Games have been hosted a total of 19 times. The upcoming Asian Games will feature 45 countries and regions competing across 43 sports. This will be the 20th edition of the Games and the third time that the continental showpiece is being hosted by Japan after Tokyo 1958 and Hiroshima 1994. India heads to the continental showpiece looking to surpass the record-breaking campaign at Hangzhou 2023, where they won 107 medals, including 28 gold. India are the defending champions in both men's and women's cricket and kabaddi, while the men's hockey team coming as the reigning champions. PV Sindhu will spearhead India's badminton campaign, while Mirabai Chanu will lead the weightlifting contingent. Manu Bhaker will be among the country's leading names in shooting, with Aman Sehrawat taking the mat in wrestling. Lovlina Borgohain, meanwhile, will look to pack a punch in boxing. Athletics will feature over 75 Indian track and field athletes with Gulveer Singh, Tejaswin Shankar, Murali Sreeshankar, Jyothi Yarraji, Parul Chuadhary are some of India's leading medal prospects. Tajinderpal Singh Toor heads into Aichi-Nagoya as a two-time defending champion in shot put. Olympic quotas are also available in archery, sailing, squash, surfing and tennis. Live streaming and telecast details When will the action at the Asian Games 2026 opening ceremony takes place? The action at the Asian Games 2026 opening ceremony will be held on September 19 in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan Where to watch live telecast of Asian Games 2026 in India? The live telecast of Asian Games 2026 will be available on the Sony Sports 1 and Sony Sports 5 TV channels in India. It will also be broadcast live in regional languages on Sony Sports 3 (Hindi) and Sony Sports 4 (Tamil, Telugu and Kannada). Where to watch live telecast of Asian Games 2026 in India? Also Read: Special Cricket Stories The live streaming of Asian Games 2026 will be available on SonyLIV through its app and website in India. Article Source: IANS
Charlie Dean Set For WBBL Debut As Melbourne Stars Sign England Star
Big Bash League: England vice-captain Charlie Dean is set to make her Women's Big Bash League debut after being signed by Melbourne Stars ahead of the upcoming season. Stars have completed their overseas signings as Dean joins compatriots Amy Jones and Dani Gibson in the squad of the 2020-21 runners-up. Dean adds firepwer to the Stars' bowling attack while also giving them batting depth and leadership skills. She led England to a recent 3-0 sweep of Ireland while filling in for regular skipper Natalie Sciver-Brunt. She has penned a one-year deal with the Stars and is excited to hit the ground running on her WBBL debut. I cant wait to get started with the Stars and play in the Big Bash for the first time, Dean said. Its such a high standard competition and the timing is right for me to be a part of it this season. I know a lot of the Stars girls already, and I think the playing group is looking really strong. It should be a lot of fun, and hopefully we can have some success, she added. Earlier, South Africa pace all-rounder Marizanne Kapp had pulled out from the WBBL to put focus on international cricket as Dean fills in her spot. She is the second spinner contracted in the squad alongside left-armer Sophie Day. While Kapp left Stars, they still have plenty of pace battery to trouble the opposition line-ups with the likes of Australians Kim Garth and Annabel Sutherland, with England's Gibson and local talent Rhys McKenna in the squad. Melbourne Stars current squad: List spots filled: 9 Contracted for WBBL|12: Sophie Day, Charlie Dean (England), Kim Garth, Dani Gibson (England), Amy Jones (England), Meg Lanning, Rhys McKenna, Indigo Noble, Annabel Sutherland List spots filled: 9 Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Uncontracted: Maisy Gibson, Sasha Moloney, Ines McKeon, Georgia Prestwidge, Sophie Reid Article Source: IANS
Lahore High Court dismisses Rizwan's petition
Mohammad Rizwan has been directed to respond to the queries from the national cybercrimes agency
Pakistan survive Thailand scare to make Asian Games semi-finals
Pakistan stuttered through their chase of 92 with a mini-collapse of 4 for 11 before Fatima Sana rescued them yet again
Asian Games: Fatima Sanas All-round Effort Takes Pakistan SF
Korogi Sports Park: Pakistan survived a late scare from Thailand to book their place in the womens cricket semifinals at the Asian Games 2026, with captain Fatima Sana making a crucial all-round contribution in their three-wicket win at Korogi Sports Park here on Thursday. The rain-affected quarterfinal was reduced to 11 overs per side, with Thailand posting 91/4 after being asked to bat first. Nannapat Koncharoenkai anchored the innings with a 38-ball 49, while Fatima led Pakistans bowling attack with two wickets. Pakistans chase began positively as Gull Feroza and Shawaal Zulfiqar added 36 runs for the opening wicket. However, Thailand fought back after the partnership was broken, with regular wickets putting Pakistan under pressure. Fatima then walked in and played an important innings when her team needed stability. The Pakistan captain scored 21 off 13 balls before being dismissed in the first ball of the ninth over, leaving her side needing 19 runs from 17 deliveries. Her departure gave Thailand renewed hope, but Tuba Hassan produced a quick burst, hitting a four and a six to keep Pakistans chase on track. She was dismissed off the final ball of the 10th over after scoring 13 from just seven deliveries. Pakistan entered the final over needing four runs with three wickets still in hand. Umm-e-Hani held her nerve and struck the winning runs off the fourth ball of the 11th over to complete the chase. The victory sent Pakistan into the semifinals, where they will face the winner of Fridays quarterfinal between Sri Lanka and Malaysia. Earlier in the day, Bangladesh also progressed to the last four after their quarterfinal against China was abandoned without a ball being bowled because of a wet outfield. Bangladesh advanced on the basis of their higher ranking under the tournament regulations. The victory sent Pakistan into the semifinals, where they will face the winner of Fridays quarterfinal between Sri Lanka and Malaysia. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Cricket is making its fourth appearance at the Asian Games after featuring at Guangzhou 2010, Incheon 2014 and Hangzhou 2023. India won both gold medals at the 2023 edition. Article Source: IANS
ENG vs SL 2nd T20I Prediction, Match Preview And Playing XI
ENG vs SL 2nd T20I, Cricket Tips: A blistering century by captain Harry Brook helped England thrash Sri Lanka by a significant margin of 119 runs. Brook scored 114 off 49 balls. Jos Buttler was impressive once again and scored 80 off 44 balls. Eventually, it proved to be an easy win for the hosts. They earned a 1-lead and need another win to seal the series win. Sri Lanka failed to adapt to the conditions and looked clueless with bat and ball. Can they find some rythym in the second game? The second match is scheduled to kick off at 11 PM IST on Thursday at Sophia Gardens in Cardiff. Sri Lanka have not beaten the English side since 2014 in this format and are searching for a long-awaited win. ENG vs SL: Match Details Date : September 17, 2026 (Thursday) Time : 11:00 PM IST Venue : Sophia Gardens, Cardiff ENG vs SL: Live Streaming Details The live action of the second T20I will be televised on the Sony Sports Networks, whereas the live stream will be available on the Sony LIV or FanCode mobile app or website. ENG vs SL: Head-to-Head in T20Is Total Matches : 19 England : 15 Sri Lanka : 4 No-result: 0 ENG vs SL: Ground Pitch Report Sophia Gardens in Cardiff is expected to offer a pretty even wicket. It has good bounce and pace from the wicket. The batters have done a pretty decent job in the recent past, and the wicket here will be balanced, and it is expected to produce a good contest between bat and ball. ENG vs SL: Possible XIs England : Jos Buttler (WK), Aneurin Donald, Harry Brook (C), Tom Banton, Jordan Cox, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Liam Dawson, Adil Rashid, Josh Tongue, Sonny Baker Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara (wk), Lahiru Udara, Charith Asalanka (c), Kamindu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Eshan Malinga ENG vs SL: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Harry Brook has been excellent in recent times, and he will be very dangerous with the bat. For Sri Lanka, it is important for Pathum Nissanka to score runs, because he has been their key scorer. Probable Best Bowler Eshan Malinga and Sonny Baker did well in the first game and are expected to perform in the upcoming contest. Today Match Prediction: England have a strong team for home conditions, which they showed in the first match. Hence, we predict England will win this contest. ENG vs SL Match 2nd T20I, Today Match ENG vs SL, ENG vs SL Prediction, ENG vs SL Predicted XIs, Injury Update for England vs Sri Lanka Match Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Disclaimer : The prediction or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.
Sonal Dinusha And Lucy Barnett Win ICC Player Of The Month Awards For August
Sri Lanka batter Sonal Dinusha has been named the ICC Player of the Month for August following his gritty knocks against India in a home ICC World Test Championship series, while Isle of Man captain Lucy Barnett has won the womens award for her standout performances in the Continental Cup T20I tournament. Dinusha, who won the award in a competitive group that included fast bowlers Ollie Robinson of England and Hasan Mahmud of Bangladesh, struck three centuries in four innings in the two-Test series against India, which included twin centuries in a fighting draw in the latter match. The 25-year-old left-hander had scores of 100 and 84 in the first Test in Galle that his team lost, but his knocks of 103 and 133 not out in the second one at the Sinhalese Sports Club ground in Colombo helped stave off defeat from a difficult situation. In saving the match, he became only the third batter ever to score a century in each innings for a team that was asked to follow on. The award was credible not only because it came in the face of some stiff competition from Robinson and Hasan but also because Dinusha got it after only five international matches - all Tests. Sonal Dinusha said: This recognition means so much to me, especially so early in my career, and Im truly grateful to the ICC for this honour. The series against India will always hold a special place in my heart. Scoring three centuries was a dream come true, made even more meaningful by achieving them in Colombo and Galle in front of our home fans. Although we didnt get the overall result we hoped for, the way our team fought back in the second match showed the character, belief and determination we have as a side. Im proud to have shared that fight with my teammates. Representing Sri Lanka is a privilege I never take for granted, and this recognition gives me even more motivation to keep learning, improving and contributing to the team. Ill continue to give my very best for Sri Lanka in the months and years ahead. Im deeply thankful to my parents, teammates, coaches, friends and relatives for their constant love, support and belief in me. This achievement is not mine alone; it belongs to everyone who has been part of my journey and helped me reach this point. The womens award this time saw all three contenders hail from Associate teams. The Thailand pair of Suleeporn Laomi and Nannapat Koncharoenkai were in the fray with some fine performances, but Barnett, hailing from the 38th-ranked European side Isle of Man, clinched the award as the fansvotes proved decisive. Barnett scored 257 runs at an average of 128.5 and an outstanding strike rate of 178.47 in four T20Is, including a knock of 123 not out off 64 balls against Norway. The opening batter finished as the leading scorer in the Continental Cup that was played in Ilfov County in Romania. She also chipped in with four wickets with her off-spin bowling as Isle of Man reached the final of the tournament. Lucy Barnett said: Winning the ICC Player of the Month award is an incredible feeling and, honestly, still feels a little unbelievable as I am making history of sorts for the Isle of Man. I knew I had a strong month, but to be recognised ahead of so many others is something Im immensely proud of and will cherish for a very long time. Its a fantastic time for womens cricket, and to have the spotlight on me now is a truly special feeling. Im grateful to the ICC for this honour and to all my teammates, coaches and officials who have made my international journey such an enjoyable and rewarding one. This award gives me even more motivation to keep pushing myself, and I hope to carry this form into the matches ahead and create many more special moments for my team. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Both players were crowned following a vote conducted among global fans registered at icc-cricket.com and a specialist panel comprising former international players and media representatives.
Sanju Samson's Mindset Is His Invisible Muscle
A cricketer or sportsman must accept that there is no guarantee in sport -- only opportunities, preparation and perseverance, points out K R Nayar.
Haris Rauf 'trying to put' name forward for SL Tests after domestic five-for
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 17 (IANS) Pakistan fast bowler Haris Rauf is looking to make his Test cricket return as he wants to put his name forward for the red-ball series against Sri Lanka, which will take place in November this year. Rauf reinstated his interest in Test cricket following his five-wicket haul for Pakistan Television (PTV) against Oil & Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL) in the President's Trophy as his 5-34 forced the opposition to follow-on. There's always a purpose that is driving you when you play cricket, Rauf said, as quoted by Cricinfo. I am trying to put my name forward for the Sri Lanka series, and Pakistan is also in need (of a fast bowler). Let's see what happens in the future as there are quite a few games to go (in the President's Trophy). Rauf has played only one Test match in his career and has featured in just 14 first-class games after limiting himself to white-ball cricket. His only appearance came in the 2022 Rawalpindi Test against England, where he also suffered a quad injury. He had previously made himself unavailable for the 2023-24 Australia tour, which brought a period of friction with the Pakistan Cricket Board as he was removed from the central contract list in February 2024. The PCB denied him NOCs for overseas leagues till June and later brought him back in the contract list after a change of heart. Pakistan have been struggling in the pace department. Their pacers are operating in 120-130 Kph in recent times, which has surprised many as the country is usually known to produce gun pacers who frequently clock in the 140s. I played four-day cricket in the last season and spent time in Grade-II cricket before the [ODI] series against Australia as well, Rauf said. You look to improve yourself by playing the longer format whenever you get time. I had time to work on myself right now with the series against Sri Lanka and England coming up, so I am looking to avail it. This is the best preparation, he said.
'Something special in Gujarat soil: Titans recalls Vadnagar visit on PM Modis birthday
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 17 (IANS) Gujarat Titans on Thursday marked Prime Minister Narendra Modis 76th birthday by sharing a video from the IPL franchises visit to Vadnagar last year, taking a look back at a trip that connected the team with the town where the Prime Minister was born. The Titans shared glimpses of their visit to Vadnagar on social media, highlighting the towns history and its connection with PM Modi.In the video, the IPL franchise looked back at its 2025 visit to the Gujarat town and recalled the significance of Vadnagar, where PM Modi was born on September 17, 1950. There is something special in the soil of Gujarat. And to experience this, lets go to a small city in Gujarat, Varnagar. The same city where our countrys Prime Minister, Mr Narendra Modi, was born, the Titans said in the video. Our Gujarat Titans had also come here. At that time, we did not know that one day these memories would become so special, the franchise added. During their Vadnagar visit, the Titans players explored the Vadnagar Archaeological Experiential Museum, which showcases the towns archaeological and cultural history. Another important stop for the team was Prerna Sankul, an experiential learning centre aimed at connecting students and educators with science, culture and values. The visit also had a personal connection to the Prime Minister, as the centre is associated with his early schooling years. The video ended with a birthday message for PM Modi, saying, Happy 76th birthday, Narendra Modi. PM Modi was born in Vadnagar in 1950, three years after India gained independence, making him the first prime minister of the country to have been born in independent India. He is also the longest-serving prime minister from a non-Congress party. October will mark 25 years of PM Modis public service. He began his political journey with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and has led the Bharatiya Janata Party to victory in three consecutive general elections.
Big Blow For Mohammad Rizwan As High Court Rejects Petition Over Cyber Crime Agency Probe
During Thursday's hearing, Lahore High Court Chief Justice Aalia Neelum dismissed Mohammad Rizwan's petition after hearing arguments from both sides.
Sachin Tendulkar, PV Sindhu Share Heartwarming Wishes On PM Narendra Modi's 76th Birthday
Sports Fraternity on Thursday extended warm wishes to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his 76th birthday and lauded his ireless dedication to the nation as ruly inspiring.
Australia look to get stronger, Zimbabwe sharper
Josh Hazlewood could return for the second ODI in Harare as Zimbabwe look for more discipline after mistakes with bat and ball in their opening loss
Associate membership for Andaman and Nicobar at BCCI AGM
The BCCI's 95th Annual General Meeting in Mumbai will address several crucial matters, including the grant of associate membership to the Cricket Association of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the appointment of a BCCI representative to the ICC, and the induction of new members to the IPL Governing Council.
Maaz Sadaqats Record-Breaking Century Powers Jamaica Kingsmen To CPL 2026 Qualifier 2
The Jamaica Kingsmen produced their best performance of the season in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) Eliminator as they beat the Barbados Tridents by nine wickets at the Kensington Oval. Maaz Sadaqat became the youngest centurion in CPL history at 21 years old as he produced a stunning 112 at the top of the order that completely took the game away from the Tridents from the start. Kirk McKenzie, his partner at the top finished 22 unbeaten as the Kingsmen steamrolled their way to Qualifier 2. The Tridents made a bad start losing Brandon King and Kevlon Anderson through the first two overs. They sat at 2/2 after three overs and lost two more wickets by the end of the first six. At 24/4, there was a silence around the Kensington Oval as the Jamaicans were smelling blood and the opportunity to set themselves up with a small run chase. The Tridents hopes rested on Quinton de Kock, who has made this tournament look easy at times. The classy South African has lifted the Tridents out of some precarious positions this season, and his task was made even more difficult after the fall of the fifth wicket as Sherfane Rutherford was brilliantly bowled by a dazzling delivery from Saim Ayub. But de Kock did what he has done all tournament and just bided his time, ensuring he was there at the end to shape the home sides innings. He had the ideal partner, captain and fellow veteran Chris Green and the two got to work building a phenomenal partnership off 114 to salvage the Tridents innings. Together, they scored 95 runs in the back half of the innings and finished on 144/6 with de Kock sacrificing himself on the last ball. The tournaments leading run scorer ended with another impressive 71, whilst Green got his half century striking 57 not out. The Tridents would have been pleased with their recovery and with some momentum to defend their modest total. That momentum was quickly quashed by the Kingsmens opening pair of Maaz Sadaqat and Kirk McKenzie who got the chase off to a flying start. Sadaqat dominated the early rotation of strike and made good use of it, powering the Kingsmen to 79/0 at the end of the PowerPlay. He continued to dominate the strike and motored to his first CPL half century this season in just 22 balls. Tridents captain Chris Green was left scratching his head with none of his bowling changes having any luck in slowing Sadaqat down. The spin that had carved through the Tridents top order earlier on, was now being pumped to all parts of the ground by the young Pakistani batter. McKenzie at the other end just had to lean on his bat and give the strike to the young man who was in the form of his life. Sadaqats strike rate remained immaculate as he reached his first ever T20 century in exactly double the number of balls he had reached his half century in. He wasnt able to finish the job off as Daniel Sams finally forced a mistake, as Sadqat skied a slower ball that Sams took himself. He departed with a sportsmanlike round of applause from the home crowd. With the Kingsmen needing one to win with 35 balls remaining, a wide from Kevlon Anderson put the Tridents out of the competition, the wide unfortunately summing up their evening. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories The Kingsmen will move on to Qualifier 2 to face the loser of the Amazon Warriors and the Falcons for a place in Sundays final.
Steve Smith Still Haunted By 'Sandpapergate' As He Prepares For South Africa Tests
Steve Smith says he is still traumatised by the infamous Sandpapergate ball-tampering scandal in 2018, but the former Australia skipper is undaunted about returning to South Africa for his first Test series since. The prolific batsman was sent home in disgrace, banned for a year and sacked as captain after conspiring to alter the ball using sandpaper during the third Test in Cape Town eight years ago. David Warner, considered the ringleader, was suspended for 12 months and stripped of all leadership roles while Cameron Bancroft was slapped with a nine-month ban. Smith, preparing for the first Test in Durban on October 9 before the series moves to Gqeberha and Cape Town, said he still suffers flashbacks to a traumatic period of his life. He is haunted by memories of leaving Johannesburg airport, with cameras clicking furiously around him, and a harrowing Sydney press conference on his return when he broke down in tears. I'm not a big fan of cameras ... I get anxious around cameras to be honest, he told News Corp. in an interview published Thursday. That was a traumatic experience in my life and when I hear the flash of a camera it makes me revisit that in a way. The 24-48 hours of being told by James Sutherland (then-Cricket Australia chief executive) that I was getting banned for a year. That and going through the airport in Johannesburg getting absolutely mobbed, and then flying back and doing that press conference. I still have little flashbacks here and there of it. Smith bore the brunt of the scandal that is considered one of Australian sport's darkest moments, but bounced back emphatically. He smashed a superb century against England on his return and has gone from strength to strength, with 10,920 Test runs so far at an average of 56. It was certainly a difficult period, particularly the initial period a few days after, he said. The mental state I was in was not great. That's somewhere I'd like not to get to again, but I certainly learned from that and have been able to move forward with my life. I've tried to kind of erase a lot of 2018 and what happened, he added. I can't remember a lot about the series. I've tried to block most of it out of my memory bank. Smith has been back to South Africa for a white-ball series since 2018, but not for a Test and he is bracing for hostile crowds. But the 37-year-old is unperturbed, having negotiated multiple Ashes tours to England since 2018, where the Barmy Army abused him relentlessly. It's something I'm kind of used to. I've copped a lot at times away from home at different venues across my career and it's something that I take in my own stride, he said. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories I use it as motivation to try and go out and do well and try and take a positive from it.
PM Shri Narendra Modi Ji: Cricket Fraternity on Thursday extended warm wishes to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his 76th birthday and lauded his tireless dedication to the nation as truly inspiring. While September 17 marks PM Modis birthday, October will mark the completion of 25 years of his public service. PM Modi was born on September 17, 1950, in Vadnagar, three years after India's Independence in 1947, making him the first Prime Minister of the country to have been born in independent India. PM Modi is the countrys longest-serving non-Congress Prime Minister. He started his political career as a member of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and has been the face of the BJPs victories in three consecutive general elections. Wishing a very Happy Birthday to Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi ji. Your tireless dedication to the nation continues to inspire us all. Praying for your long life, good health, and happiness as you guide India to new heights, Sachin shared on X. Warmest birthday wishes to our beloved Honble Prime Minister! @narendramodi ji. For many years, your life has been devoted to public service, guided by a deep sense of duty and dedication to our nation. Your perseverance, commitment, and tireless work for the people are truly inspiring. On this special day, wishing you good health, happiness, peace, and continued strength to serve the nation with the same passion and dedication. May the years ahead bring you immense joy and fulfilment. Happy Birthday, Honble Prime Minister! Harbhajan shared. India men's cricket head coach Gautam Gambhir said, Wishing health and happiness for our Honble PM Shri Narendra Modi Ji. May you continue to lead India towards a glorious future. Wishing Honble Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi ji a very happy birthday. May you continue to be blessed with good health, happiness and strength as you lead the nation forward. I have personally been fortunate to receive your encouragement and support at different stages of my journey, and your words have always been a source of motivation, Mithali Raj posted on X. Wishing our Honble Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi Ji a very happy birthday. Your energy, discipline and unwavering commitment to the nation are truly inspiring. May you be blessed with great health, strength and many more years of service to our country, Venkatesh Prasad said. Wishing Honble Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi ji a very happy birthday. May you continue to be blessed with good health, happiness and strength as you lead the nation forward. I have personally been fortunate to receive your encouragement and support at different stages of my journey, and your words have always been a source of motivation, Mithali Raj posted on X. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories VV Laxman wrote, Wishing Shri Narendra Modi ji a very happy birthday. May you always be blessed with good health, strength, happiness and may you continue to inspire millions through your dedication and service to our nation. Warmest wishes for a blessed and fulfilling year ahead. Article Source: IANS
Asian Games: Bangladesh Women Reach Semis After QF Washout
The Nigar Sultana Joty: Bangladesh secured a place in the semifinals of the womens cricket competition at the Asian Games after their quarterfinal against China was abandoned without a ball being bowled due to wet outfield here on Thursday. Despite the rain stopping early, persistent moisture on the outfield at Korogi Sports Park prevented any play. The officials conducted inspections before deciding that the conditions were not suitable for the match to go ahead. With no result possible, Bangladesh progressed to the last four by virtue of their higher seeding in the tournament regulations. The Nigar Sultana Joty-led side is ranked 10th in the ICC Womens T20I rankings, while China are placed 36th. Bangladesh will now meet the winner of the quarterfinal between defending champions India and hosts Japan in the semifinal on September 20. India, who won the womens cricket gold medal at the 2023 Hangzhou Asian Games, entered the knockout stage directly along with Bangladesh, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Hosts Japan also received direct entry into the quarterfinals. Malaysia, Thailand and China secured their places in the last eight through the qualifying tournament. The other quarterfinals will see Sri Lanka take on Malaysia, while Pakistan will face Thailand. The winners of those two matches will meet in the other semifinal. The ongoing womens cricket competition is being played in the T20 format and carries full international status. The tournament runs from September 17 to 22, with the mens competition scheduled from September 24 to October 1. The other quarterfinals will see Sri Lanka take on Malaysia, while Pakistan will face Thailand. The winners of those two matches will meet in the other semifinal. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories The Asian Games competition also comes as cricket prepares for its return to the Olympic programme at the Los Angeles 2028 Games, which will mark the sports first Olympic appearance since 1900. Article Source: IANS
'Fabulous Leader': Ganguly Wishes PM Modi Healthy, Long Life On His Birthday
BJP National President Nitin Nabin: Former India captain and Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) chief Sourav Ganguly extended birthday greetings to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his 76th birthday and wished the fabulous leader healthy and a long life. I wish Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji a very happy 76th birthday. May God give him the best of health, all the happiness. He has been a fabulous leader for the country, Ganguly told IANS. I hope he has a great and a long life and as much success as he can till whatever and whenever he wants. I wish him a very happy birthday and a very healthy and a long life, he added. PM Modi is the countrys longest-serving non-Congress Prime Minister. He started his political career as a member of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and has been the face of the BJPs victories in three consecutive general elections. The BJP on Thursday began its special month-long campaign, titled Seva Sankalp Abhiyan, to mark the completion of 25 years of Prime Minister Narendra Modis public life and service. PM Modi is the countrys longest-serving non-Congress Prime Minister. He started his political career as a member of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and has been the face of the BJPs victories in three consecutive general elections. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Earlier, on September 9, BJP National President Nitin Nabin, while addressing a press conference at the party headquarters, announced that PM Modi would complete 25 years of public service on October 7. To mark the occasion, the BJP will conduct the special month-long campaign, Seva Sankalp Abhiyan. Article Source: IANS
Why Hardik Wasn't Picked For Windies ODIs
Hardik Pandya's return to cricket is contingent on him proving full fitness, specifically bowling his complete quota of 10 overs for India A, as selectors eye his potential role in the 2027 ODI World Cup amidst persistent injury concerns.
Bangladesh Women Advance To Asian Games Cricket Semis After Washout
The Bangladesh women's cricket team has advanced to the semi-finals of the 2026 Asian Games after their quarter-final match against China was abandoned due to a wet outfield.
Bangladesh through to semi-final after washout against China
Bangladesh will now take on the winner of India vs Japan in the semi-final
Sadaqat's 49-ball 112 knocks Tridents out, Kingsmen enter Qualifier 2
Barbados Tridents recovered from 30 for 5 to post 144 for 6, but it proved nowhere near enough to challenge Jamaica Kingsmen once Maaz Sadaqat got going
PIX: India-Afghanistan cricketing bond celebrated at 'Koh-E-Zafar'
The Afghanistan Cricket Board hosted 'Koh-E-Zafar' in New Delhi to celebrate the strong cricketing friendship between India and Afghanistan.
'Thrown to the wolves' after 2018 ball-tampering scandal, says Steve Smith
Former Australia captain Steve Smith has revealed he felt 'thrown to the wolves' following the 2018 ball-tampering scandal, admitting he still experiences flashbacks to the media frenzy upon his return home.
Sri Lanka batter Silva to miss Asian Games with finger injury
The middle-order batter was Sri Lanka's top scorer at the Women's Asia Cup and helped them reach the final of Twenty20 tournament where they lost to India on Sunday.
After Four Decades, Cricket Set to Return to Srinagar
Srinagar could soon witness its biggest cricket event in nearly four decades. The Sher-i-Kashmir Stadium is expected to host the Irani Cup from October 1 to 5, with reigning Ranji Trophy champions Jammu and Kashmir taking on the Rest of India. If the venue is formally confirmed by the BCCI, it will be the most significant cricket match in Kashmir since India played Australia at the same ground on September 9, 1986. For a place where cricket has a history far more complicated than the simple scorecard suggests, the proposed match carries unusual significance. The Sher-i-Kashmir Stadium has hosted only two ODIs. The first was on October 13, 1983, when the newly crowned World Cup champions India faced the West Indies. The second came nearly three years later, against Australia in 1986, when India lost by three wickets. The 1983 match, however, became famous for reasons beyond cricket. The Indian team was booed by sections of the crowd, while the West Indies received strong support. The match was also disrupted when the pitch was dug up, forcing the game to be curtailed. The West Indies eventually won the rain-affected contest. That episode left a lasting impression and was followed by a long absence of major cricket from the Valley. The stadium itself also went through a difficult period. It was occupied by the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) for 18 years, during a period when Srinagar was affected by considerable militant violence. The CRPF eventually vacated the venue in 2007, after which the Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association planned its renovation. First-class cricket resumed at the stadium in 2009, but regular major cricket did not return to the venue. Even the stadium witnessed political rallies, rather than cricket. Four decades later, the circumstances are very different. The proposed Irani Cup comes at a particularly important moment for Jammu and Kashmir cricket. The team has just achieved the biggest success in its history by winning the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy, defeating Karnataka in the final based on a first-innings lead. The triumph was the culmination of years of gradual progress. Jammu and Kashmir had often shown flashes of potential but had remained on the fringes of Indian domestic cricket. The Ranji Trophy title changed that status dramatically. The teams success has also produced players capable of attracting national attention. Auqib Nabi Dar, the fast bowler from Baramulla, was the outstanding performer of the championship season, finishing with 60 wickets at an average of 12.56. He took 5 for 54 in the first innings of the final against Karnataka and has since been included in Indias Test squad. For Jammu and Kashmir, the Irani Cup would be much more than another first-class fixture. It would bring the national domestic game to Srinagar at a time when the state team is at the summit of Indian cricket. The Rest of India also gives the contest considerable stature. It is the most successful side in Irani Cup history, having won the competition 30 times, with Mumbai next on 15 titles. Interestingly, cricket has already made a partial return to Srinagar. In 2024, Legends League Cricket staged matches at Bakshi Stadium, a football ground that was temporarily converted into a cricket venue. The tournament brought several well-known former international players to the Valley and gave a new generation of local spectators an opportunity to watch recognised cricket names in their own city. But the Irani Cup would be different. It would be a major official domestic fixture involving the reigning Ranji Trophy champions, played at the historic Sher-i-Kashmir Stadium. The transformation has been gradual rather than sudden. Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association, formed in 1959-60, spent decades trying to establish itself in the national domestic structure. The team won its first Ranji Trophy match only in the 1982-83 season, more than two decades after gaining association status. There were occasional breakthroughs, but sustained success remained elusive. The recent generation has changed that narrative. Players from the region have begun to make their presence felt in the IPL and at the national level. Parvez Rasool became the first male cricketer from Jammu and Kashmir to represent India in an ODI, while Auqib Nabis emergence has provided another example of the talent coming through the region. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories The Irani Cup match would allow a new generation of Kashmiri cricket followers to watch a major domestic contest in a historic venue. In 2026, the hope is that the focus can be where it belongs on the players, the contest and the cricket.
Amsterdam Flames Seal 5-Wicket Win Over Glasgow Cosmic, Move Back to Second in ETPL
Amsterdam Flames completed their league campaign with a five-wicket victory over Glasgow Cosmic in Match 28 of the ETPL at Malahide, chasing down 127 with 24 balls to spare and moving back into second place in the standings. Glasgow were bowled out for 126, leaving Amsterdam with a target of 127. The Flames made the most of the opportunity, reaching 127 for five to seal the win and collect two valuable points in the race for the top positions. The result marked another important step in Amsterdams campaign. Having already recorded a tournament-high 214 in their previous match against Dublin Guardians, the Flames followed that performance with a successful chase to close out their ten-match league schedule. Amsterdams bowlers set up the result by restricting Glasgow to 126. David Payne and Bas de Leede were particularly influential, Payne claiming three wickets and de Leede took 4 wickets as the Cosmic batting line-up struggled to build a substantial total. Their spells ensured that Glasgow were unable to set a more demanding target. This was de Leede's career best figure delivering 4/6. With 127 required, Amsterdam approached the chase with the assurance of knowing that a steady innings would put them in a strong position. The Flames reached the target in 16 overs, finishing on 127 for five and completing a five-wicket victory with four overs remaining with a major contribution coming from Curtis Campher who scored 44 from 30 balls. The win carries major significance beyond the result itself. Amsterdam have now completed their quota of ten league matches and moved back into second place, putting themselves in a strong position as the remaining fixtures determine the final qualification picture. The Flames must now wait for the outcome of the remaining matches, particularly the meeting between Edinburgh Castle Rockers and Belfast Wolves. Belfast remain in contention to move above Amsterdam, but would need a substantial victory over Edinburgh to improve their net run rate sufficiently to overtake the Flames. Rotterdam Dockers remaining fixture is also crucial to the qualification race. A Rotterdam victory would strengthen their position in the standings, while a defeat could open the door for Belfast to secure qualification, depending on the outcome and margin of the Edinburgh fixture. For Amsterdam, the task is now complete. The Flames have finished their ten matches, secured another win and placed themselves in second as the league stage reaches its decisive point. Their 59-run victory over Dublin in the previous match established a new ETPL team-total record, and this win over Glasgow provided a timely follow-up. The Flames now await the final results, with their place in the standings and qualification hopes resting on the remaining contenders performances. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Amsterdam have done what they needed to do on the field. The final qualification picture will now be shaped by the results still to come.
Despite some drama concerning the venue in the last couple of days, Mohali is set to host the 2026 Mens Asian Champions Trophy. Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) made a late request for changes to the...
Debate Band Kardi: Ex-India Star On Sanju Samson Amid Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Buzz
Sanju Samson played a blazing 57-run knock off 22 balls in the second T20I against Afghanistan.
Matthew Wade calls time on his BBL career
Wade played 119 BBL games including 90 for Hurricanes but he will step away to focus on his coaching career
PIX: Two goals up, Man Utd dumped by Brighton in League Cup
Manchester United suffered a historic 3-2 home defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion in the League Cup, despite taking a two-goal lead. This loss marks the first time in nearly 50 years United have lost at home after being two goals up, adding to their recent struggles including a Premier League loss to Manchester City and a poor start to the season.
Snubbed Rishabh Pant to captain Rest of India in Irani Cup
Rishabh Pant, recently excluded from India's white-ball squad, has been appointed captain of the Rest of India team for the upcoming Irani Cup match against Ranji Trophy champions Jammu and Kashmir.
PCB To Decide Mohammad Rizwan, Imam-Ul-Haq Fate After NCCIA Probe Into Alleged Dressing-Room Leaks
Experienced Pakistan cricketers Mohammad Rizwan and Imam-ul-Haq are set to await the findings of the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA).
'Series Going Well...India Will Win Third Match As Well,' Rajiv Shukla On Afghanistan T20Is
Afghanistan T20Is: Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) vice-president and MP Rajiv Shukla has expressed confidence that the Indian men's team will win the third T20I too and complete a clean sweep. India will take on Afghanistan in the third and final match of the T20I series after winning the first two matches played at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi. The series is going very well. We have already won the series, and we will win the third match as well, Rajiv Shukla told IANS on the sidelines of an event in New Delhi on Wednesday. With the series already secured, India will look to use the third and final T20I against Afghanistan as an opportunity to fine-tune their squad ahead of the Asian Games, with the Arun Jaitley Stadium set to host the contest on Thursday. The match comes after India produced virtually identical seven-wicket victories in the opening two games. They successfully chased targets of 157 and 160, respectively, leaving Afghanistan with little to show despite moments of individual brilliance. The second T20I followed a familiar pattern. Rahmanullah Gurbaz fell for a second straight duck before Ibrahim Zadrans 37 provided Afghanistan with some stability. Mohammad Nabi and Rashid Khan then added 48 for the sixth wicket, helping their side reach 159/8. Nitish Kumar Reddy and Arshdeep Singh claimed five wickets between them. Indias response was largely comfortable, with Sanju Samsons 57, Abhishek Sharmas 39 and Ishan Kishans unbeaten 38 guiding the hosts home. Meanwhile, on Wednesday, the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) hosted the Indian cricket team for a dinner at which the Indian players talked about their experience of playing Afghanistan, as well as their familiarity with their players. Indias response was largely comfortable, with Sanju Samsons 57, Abhishek Sharmas 39 and Ishan Kishans unbeaten 38 guiding the hosts home. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Indian opener Abhishek Sharma said playing against Afghanistan is a good experience for young players as they play an aggressive brand of cricket. Article Source: IANS
Randell dents Northants promotion hopes as Derbyshire eke out slender lead
Hosts concede first-innings lead as rivals Kent close in on three-day win
Bouchier ton, Wellington five-for seal final spot for Hampshire
Freya Kemp and Abi Norgrove chip in with fifties to thrash Surrey
Tribe bats through day for 142 not out as Glamorgan frustrate Surrey
England Lions batter makes first Division One century after 20-wicket opening day
Amazon Warriors in final after winning eight-over shootout
They will next face TKR in the final in Barbados on Thursday
Daaryoush, Kishore dig deep as Gloucestershire frustrate Middlesex
Eighth-wicket stand rescue hosts from depths of 128 for 7 to close in on parity
Kent keep promotion prospects on track as Lancashire face further defeat
Hosts need a further 56 runs on third day in low-scoring clash at Canterbury
Shreyas Iyer, Mohammad Nabi Highlight Strong India vs Afghanistan Cricketing Bond At 'Koh-E-Zafar'
The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) hosted 'Koh-e-Zafar' (Mountain of Triumph), a special event on Wednesday, bringing together officials from the ACB and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)
Nabi,Dhirget maidenODIcall-ups for West Indiesseries
Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja are all part of the ODI series against the men from the Caribbean, providing vast experience to the Shubman Gill-led squad
Tahir: People remind me that I'm one of the oldest guys in world cricket
Under Tahir, Guyana Amazon Warriors are out to win their second CPL title
Pakistan Seeks Neutral Venue For Its Matches In Asian Champions Trophy To Be Played In Punjab
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann: A few days after Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann announced that the Pakistan hockey team will be travelling to India for the Asian Champions Trophy, the Pakistan Hockey Federation has sought a neutral venue for their matches for the tournament to be played in Mohali. The PHF has reportedly approached the Asian Hockey Federation, asking it to shift its matches to a neutral venue for the tournament, to be held from October 27 to November 5, to ensure the country's uninterrupted and full participation. Hosts India, Pakistan, China, Japan, Malaysia, and Korea are scheduled to participate in the event to be played in Jalandhar and Mohali. PHF President Mohiuddin Ahmed Wani said in a statement that the decision aimed to ensure a safe, dignified, and conducive environment for the national players and officials. We are ready to play against all FIH member countries, including India, he said, adding that the PHF remained committed to the principle of keeping sports free from politics. Pakistan news outlet Geo TV reported that the PHF president expressed hope that the AHF would positively consider Pakistans proposal for a neutral venue to ensure the countrys uninterrupted and full participation in the tournament. The change in the PHF stance came two days after Wani had clarified that the team's travel to India is subject to government clearance. The visit of the Pakistan team will depend on government clearance. We will do whatever the government asks us to do, Wani had said. A freeze in political relations between India and Pakistan has resulted in teams from both countries not travelling across the border to participate in sports events. The Indian men's cricket team was not allowed to travel to Pakistan for the Asia Cup 2025 and played its matches in neutral UAE. The ICC tried to hammer out a compromise, making it mandatory to have a neutral venue for events hosted by each country. A freeze in political relations between India and Pakistan has resulted in teams from both countries not travelling across the border to participate in sports events. The Indian men's cricket team was not allowed to travel to Pakistan for the Asia Cup 2025 Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Now, it seems the Pakistan Hockey Federation wants a similar treatment for its men's hockey team, even though the sport does not have a neutral venue concept. Article Source: IANS
List of India, India A and Rest of India squads in action in September and October
India play Japan, the Asian Games and West Indies; India A face Australia A; and Rest of India play Irani Cup against J
Craig Overton hits back amid Ben Cliff's eight-wicket haul
Somerset step closer to maiden four-day title as talismanic allrounder leads with bat and ball
Bangladesh to tour Nepal for three T20Is in March 2027
It will be the first international bilateral series between the two countries
Adam Hose, Brett D'Oliveira repel relentless Ben Stokes
England's former Test captain dug deep for the newly-crowned Division Two champions
Suthar spins through Essex to seize title initiative for Warwickshire
Eight-wicket win propels visitors to top of table as hosts look in other direction
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's Father Asked About Teenager's Absence In India XI vs Afghanistan. His Reply
For the second match running against Afghanistan, the Indian team went ahead with Sanju Samson in place of Vaibhav Sooryavanshi as the preferred opener
India will play three ODIs and five T20Is against the West Indies starting September 27 in Thiruvananthapuram
Nabi,Dhirget maidenODIcall-ups for WIseries
Gubbins ends drought to keep Hampshire's survival hopes alive
Opener hits first century since April 2025 to leave Leicestershire up against it
Rizwan challenges NCCIA summons in Lahore High Court
Rizwan is understood to have raised questions about the nature of the investigation and about the jurisdiction of the NCCIA
Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya will not be involved in India's forthcoming white-ball series against the West Indies after the selectors named the ODI and T20I squads on Wednesday. The news regarding the exclusion of Rishabh Pant is among the most
Naman Dhir, Aquib Nabi get maiden ODI call-ups for West Indies series
Ravindra Jadeja is back in the ODI fold, having last played a 50-over international in January
Davis Cup | An even contest in the offing on the hard-courts of Seoul
Irani Cup: Pant to lead Rest of India; Sarfaraz named vice-captain
Akash Deep, who last played a competitive game in February, has been included, subject to fitness
Vipraj Nigam Called Up As Injured Chakaravarthy Ruled Out Of Asian Games
Japan T20I: Young leg-spinner Vipraj Nigam has been called up to replace the injured Varun Chakaravarthy in Indias squad for the upcoming Japan T20I and the Asian Games, the BCCI announced on Wednesday. Chakaravarthy has been ruled out of both assignments after suffering a side strain. The Men's Selection Committee has named Nigam as his replacement, and all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy, initially in the Asian Games squad, has been withdrawn from the continental event and will now be part of India's upcoming ODI series against the West Indies. The selection committee also announced India's squads for the white-ball home series against West Indies and the Rest of India squad for the Irani Cup clash against Ranji Trophy champions Jammu & Kashmir. The series against West Indies will have three ODIs and five T20Is starting September 27. Shubman Gill will lead the ODI side, with Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli also named in the squad. Shreyas Iyer will be in charge of the T20I team, the side comprising a combination of experienced players and young talent such as Abhishek Sharma, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Ishan Kishan, Sanju Samson and Tilak Varma. The ODI series will start in Thiruvananthapuram on September 27 and then go to Guwahati and New Chandigarh. The five-match T20I series will take place in Lucknow, Ranchi, Indore, Hyderabad and Bengaluru. Rishabh Pant has been named the captain of the Rest of India team for the Irani Cup match versus Jammu & Kashmir, and Sarfaraz Khan has been named his deputy; the squad also includes Akash Deep, provided that he passes a fitness check. The Irani Cup squad includes several players who have featured prominently in domestic cricket, with Manav Suthar, Saransh Jain, Anukul Roy and Mukesh Kumar among those selected. India ODI squad vs West Indies Shubman Gill (C), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ruturaj Gaikwad, KL Rahul (VC), Dhruv Jurel, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Prasidh Krishna, Gurnoor Brar, Mohammed Siraj, Auqib Nabi, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Naman Dhir. India T20I squad vs West Indies Shreyas Iyer (C), Abhishek Sharma, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Ishan Kishan (WK), Sanju Samson (WK), Tilak Varma (VC), Shivam Dube, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Arshdeep Singh, Prince Yadav, Mayank Yadav. Rest of the India squad for the Irani Cup Rishabh Pant (C, WK), Sanat Sangwan, Shikhar Mohan, Sudip Gharami, Sarfaraz Khan (VC), Smaran Ravichandran, Manav Suthar, Saransh Jain, Akash Deep*, Mukesh Kumar, Mukesh Choudhary, Aryan Juyal (WK), Aryan Pandey, Anukul Roy, Ayush Doseja. *Subject to fitness clearance. Rishabh Pant (C, WK), Sanat Sangwan, Shikhar Mohan, Sudip Gharami, Sarfaraz Khan (VC), Smaran Ravichandran, Manav Suthar, Saransh Jain, Akash Deep*, Mukesh Kumar, Mukesh Choudhary, Aryan Juyal (WK), Aryan Pandey, Anukul Roy, Ayush Doseja. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Shreyas Iyer (C), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (WK), Ishan Kishan (WK), Shivam Dube, Tilak Varma (VC), Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Yash Thakur, Vipraj Nigam. Article Source: IANS
Thailand's Natthakan Chantham Wants To Master Suryakumar's 'Supla Shot'
Thailand women's team batter Natthakan Chantham is attempting to incorporate Suryakumar Yadav's unique 'Supla shot' into her T20 game, despite initial difficulties, and also admires India's Shubman Gill for his effortless batting.
India has announced its 15-member squad each for the upcoming ODI and T20 International series against West Indies, starting September 27. Rishabh Pant, who was heavily discussed as one of the probable returns in the...
Varun Chakravarthy ruled out of Japan T20I and Asian Games, Vipraj Nigam named replacement
Nitish Kumar Reddy, who was in the Asian Games squad, has been withdrawn and will now feature in the ODI series against West Indies
Asian Champions Trophy: Pakistan Seeks Neutral Venue for All Matches, Wants Event Moved From India
Pakistan have asked the Asian Hockey Federation to either move the 2026 Men's Asian Champions Trophy from India or to arrange for all Pakistan matches to take place at a neutral venue, sparking a new diplomatic row over the event. The
India have had a perfect start to the three-T20I series against Afghanistan
Nilakshika Silva out of Asian Games with finger injury
Sri Lanka have picked Anushka Sanjeewani, Hansima Karunaratne and Rashmika Sewwandi in the 15-member squad
'Smriti Mandhana's extreme domination against spinners sets new benchmark'
Former India captain Anjum Chopra praises Smriti Mandhana's evolved power game and dominance against spinners, calling it a blueprint for younger players in women's T20 cricket.
Lancashire Women Confirm Seven Departures, Cross And Morris Set To Retire
Vitality T20 County Cup: Lancashire Women will undergo a significant squad transition at the end of the 2026 season, with seven first-team players set to leave the club, including England great Kate Cross and all-rounder Fi Morris, who will both retire when their current contracts expire. Seren Smale, Hannah Jones, Liv Bell, Alice Clarke and Danni Collins will also depart after reaching the end of their respective deals, bringing the curtain down on several notable Lancashire careers. Cross leaves as one of the most decorated players to have represented the Red Rose. Having played for Lancashire across both the amateur and professional eras, she has made more than 200 appearances for the club and claimed 244 wickets. Her international career with England saw her make 102 appearances and take 140 wickets, while she also captained the national side in 2024. Morris joined the club in 2023 and went on to make a significant contribution with both bat and ball. She accumulated more than 1,000 runs and took over 50 wickets for Thunder and Lancashire. Her impact was particularly evident in 2025, when Lancashire secured both the Vitality T20 County Cup and Metro Bank One-Day Cup. Smale, another product of Lancashires pathway, leaves having passed 2,000 runs across formats for Thunder and Lancashire. Her 72 in last seasons One-Day Cup final proved particularly influential as Lancashire lifted the trophy. Jones, a Manchester-born left-arm spinner and Red Rose Academy graduate, departs with 122 wickets for the club across formats. She played a key role in the 2025 One-Day Cup triumph, taking 14 wickets during the campaign. Bells standout year came in 2023, when she made her Thunder debut and claimed 25 wickets across formats. The Scotland international was also part of her countrys squad at the 2026 ICC Womens T20 World Cup. Jones, a Manchester-born left-arm spinner and Red Rose Academy graduate, departs with 122 wickets for the club across formats. She played a key role in the 2025 One-Day Cup triumph, taking 14 wickets during the campaign. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories David Thorley, Director of Womens Cricket at Lancashire, said, We would like to extend our thanks to the seven players departing the Club at the end of the season. A massive congratulations goes out to Kate and Fi for what they have achieved throughout their careers. They have served the Club with distinction, and we wish them the very best of luck in their retirement. We would also like to wish Seren, Hannah, Liv, Alice and Danni well in their future cricketing endeavours. We thank them for their effort and commitment throughout their time with the Red Rose. Article Source: IANS
BCCI Chief Manhas, Team India Meet Japan Ambassador Ahead Of Historic T20I
His Excellency Mr Ono Keiichi: BCCI president Mithun Manhas and members of the Indian mens cricket team, led by captain Shreyas Iyer, met Japans Ambassador to India, ONO Keiichi, on Wednesday ahead of the historic T20I between India and Japan in Sano later this month. The meeting underlined the growing sporting ties between the two countries, with Ambassador ONO presenting Manhas and the Indian team with a Daruma, a traditional Japanese good-luck charm. The special gesture came ahead of the Suzuki Cup, which will see India and Japan face each other in a mens T20I for the first time on September 22 at the Sano International Cricket Ground in Tochigi Prefecture. Sharing pictures from the meeting, Manhas said the occasion was significant as cricket prepares to reach a new audience in Japan. It was a pleasure to meet His Excellency Mr Ono Keiichi, Ambassador of Japan to India @JapanAmbIndia, along with #TeamIndia in Delhi today. This is a special moment as cricket reaches a new audience in Japan, and one that reflects the vision championed by Mr @JayShah of taking our sport to new territories and making it truly global, Manhas wrote on X. We are proud to build on that vision and strengthen crickets presence in new parts of the world. The excitement for this historic fixture and the Asian Games is building! he added. Ambassador ONO also shared pictures from the meeting, saying he was delighted to meet Manhas and the Indian team led by Iyer. Dosti ki Nayi Innings, delighted to meet @BCCI President @MithunManhas and Team India led by Captain @ShreyasIyer15. Looking forward to the SUZUKI CUP India-Japan 75th Anniversary Cricket Match in Sano, Tochigi, Japan, on 22 September! Best wishes for the 20th Asian Games, he wrote on X. The Suzuki Cup is being organised as part of celebrations marking the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Japan. It is also the first step of the Sport 75 initiative, which seeks to promote sporting exchanges and cooperation between the two countries. The match will also mark Indias first international cricket fixture in Japan and the first-ever international meeting between the mens teams of India and Japan. The Suzuki Cup is being organised as part of celebrations marking the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Japan. It is also the first step of the Sport 75 initiative, which seeks to promote sporting exchanges and cooperation between the two countries. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories The match comes just days before the start of the mens cricket competition at the 2026 Asian Games, where both India and Japan are set to participate. India will be using the fixture as part of its preparations for the continental event. Article Source: IANS
Will IPL Scrap Impact Player Rule? BCCI Seeks More Feedback; IPL 2027 Auction To Be Held In Country
The future of the Impact Player rule remains uncertain ahead of IPL 2027, with the BCCI choosing to delay a final decision after discussing the matter at the latest IPL Governing Council meeting. The rule, introduced in the IPL in 2023,
It's sort of a deja vu. After 2025, it's the same story in 2026. After the men's team, now the women's cricket team has refused to receive the Asia Cup trophy from Pakistan's Mohsin Naqvi
WPL 2027 to be played from January 14 to February 7
The player auction will be held in Kochi on October 28
Pakistan Cricket In Turmoil? Aaqib Javed Responds To Removal Reports With Blunt Message
Pakistan national selector Aaqib Javed on Tuesday dismissed reports of his impending resignation or removal from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) as fake news.
'Want Afghanistan To Win One World Cup By The Time I Am In The Team,' Says Rashid Khan
Arun Jaitley Stadium: There is a particular kind of calm about Rashid Khan these days. The leg-spinner who once seemed to exist purely as a wicket-taking force of nature is now at his warm and affable self on the eve of the third T20I against India, a game which Afghanistan have to win to avoid a 3-0 series defeat. On Tuesday night at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, where Afghanistan faltered yet again, Rashid was the exception for the designated hosts: 28 with the bat, and 3-36 with the ball. The runs, in particular, were not an accident, so as were the three boundaries he hit off Arshdeep Singh in the 18th over (with the inside-out loft over cover for six being the standout). They were the product of a shift that began the day he walked into the Gujarat Titans dressing room in the IPL and was told he was no longer merely a bowler who could swing a bat. I have always wanted to bat; I started playing cricket by batting. I always wanted to bat. For a team, 20-25 runs are very important, and I wanted to do that for my team, especially in T20s. So how can I do that? Earlier, I didn't get that much batting. But since I came to Gujarat Titans, I have been getting more batting in the net sessions. Ashish (Nehra) bhai told me that I will play as a batter too and not just as a bowler. So, I focused more on batting. By working on and improving my batting, when I make runs in the match, I automatically get more confidence. It comes from confidence, and when that goes high, the practice and hard work pay off, Rashid told IANS in an exclusive interaction facilitated by Red Bull on Wednesday. The technical work and success in batting have been made possible by someone who is not someone who appears in the headlines. Naeem Amin, who Rashid met during his time at Gujarat Titans, is the man the premier leg-spinner calls first when something feels off. Amin, who also trained India stars Virat Kohli and Hardik Pandya before they were in England, was quick to message Rashid after Tuesdays game was over. He has helped me a lot. To be honest, all my improved batting has been done by Naeem Amin. Not just in batting, but also in bowling. I always talk with him. Last night, when the match was over, he messaged me, saying that I had a lot of fun. But what I enjoyed the most was when you hit a six over mid-off against Arshdeep - that was the best effort for me. To be honest, before we came here, I had done 3-4 sessions with him. We were working on how to play straight, how to hit a straight six, and not hit cross-bat. He was very happy that I hit a straight six. He helped me a lot. My go-to person is Naeem Amin. I go to him and ask him what I did wrong and what I can do better. If Afghanistan's arrival as a side capable of beating anyone has a starting point, Rashid places it squarely at the 2023 ODI World Cup in India - the tournament where the underdog tag stopped being an excuse and started being a weapon. It also has a New Delhi connection they beat the then-reigning champions England and sent their loyal supporters back home in euphoria. Exactly, everything started from here. In the 2023 World Cup, we defeated England, then we defeated Sri Lanka and Pakistan -- we defeated big teams. Australia was also close, but it was an innings Maxwell played and changed the game. In the 2024 World Cup, we defeated New Zealand, then we defeated Australia and reached the semifinal, recalls Rashid. The list has only grown since. But Rashid is wary of a team that celebrates upsets rather than expects results, and he keeps returning to the same word. In the Champions Trophy, we defeated England in Pakistan. It was a great achievement for us in the last 3-4 years. That's when our cricket reached another level. Now, it's a tough challenge for us to maintain consistency. We want to do it again and again -- we don't just do it once, and that's it. That is because when you do it again and again, that's when you show consistency. It's a big challenge for us. It was a tough match for us against South Africa in the T20 World Cup; we played in a double super-over, and we didn't win the match. I think it's a positive thing that we played well and performed well. We will try to do better. We will try to find a way to defeat big teams again and again. When there is pressure, we will control ourselves and focus on our skills. The one subject on which Rashid's fluency briefly deserts him is the T20I captaincy role, which he held till Afghanistan exited this years T20 World Cup at the group stage. When that captaincy was taken from him and given to Ibrahim Zadran, Rashid let out a laugh. Le li (it was taken). I mean, I don't understand. Whatever happens, it will be for the good. We don't know what the future holds for us. For me, it was my destiny to lead Afghanistan to this much. It was the same for Jonathan Trott. It was his destiny. I always wanted to lead the team and do well. But there are some things that you can't control. You have to accept, as a player, that you have to move on and play for the country. I know it's not there, but hopefully, Ibrahim is a good young guy. We all know how skilful he is. Hopefully, he can lead the team and win more matches in Afghanistan. For a cricketer whose career was briefly affected by back surgery after the 2023 ODI World Cup and extensive pain management after that, the most significant scoreline of 2026 is no complaints, no pain, no management plans. To achieve that, red-ball cricket, Rashids favourite format, has been put on the back burner. It's been sabse zabardast (very fantastic). I want every year to be like this one only 2026. I want to perform well and try to do well. So far, it's great in both formats, T20 and ODIs. The biggest thing is that my back supports me a lot. It helps me a lot, and I don't get any complaints from my back. So, I'm so happy about that. That turnaround, he says, owes a great deal to a few days in Austria at Red Bull's High Performance Centre in Salzburg, Australia, where the diagnosis was less about treatment for the back. Yes, it was very important. I was struggling a lot with my back. Then, I went to Red Bull's High Performance Centre in Austria. I wanted to do a full-body check-up to see where I could do better and the areas where my back was having problems. Even after the surgery, I was getting pain little by little. The 2-3 days that I spent there were very big days for me because I did a check-up of my whole body and found out my strengths and weaknesses. I was so impressed with it that I wanted to go again. Inshallah, I will go there for 2-3 weeks for training only. It was a good experience where I clearly got an idea of my body. We did a full-body check-up, and then for half a day, we sat with the physiotherapists and discussed the areas that needed to be improved by showing them on the screen. That really helped me and gave me a clear picture of where I do better. It's simple for me. Apart from the recovery, the nutrition aspect has been super simple for Rashid, whose favourite food is Dal Makhani. It's simple for me. I don't exercise too much, don't do much extra dieting, or eat everything, and I try to keep it simple. I am not strict - like, I don't have a weight machine with me, and I eat too much or too little, and I try to eat only what is good for myself and my health, as if you become rigid, then the guy becomes mentally affected. Sometimes, I feel like I want to eat biryani today and then have it once a week. I mean, too many restrictions are also not fine like no biryani at all. But I try to eat as much healthy food as possible. We all know what is healthy and what is not. You don't ask anyone about that. The more you eat healthy food, the less unhealthy stuff you eat, and your diet automatically goes as per that. I don't focus much on high-protein things. Whatever the body wishes to eat, I do that to give it sukoon (peace). If the body is happy, then you are also happy. Ask him what has changed most in the last 12 months and the answer has nothing to do with cricket. Rashid's son, Azlan, has rewired how quickly he can leave a bad day behind and, going by his own admission, that has had a startling effect on his wicket column. Before he was born, my mind wouldn't get fresh quickly. But now when I see his face or video-call him, my whole body relaxes. He is also a lucky charm for me. Since he came to the ground for the first match in England, I took five wickets. Then, in 3 matches, he came to Ireland, and I took 12 scalps. He is a lucky charm. He woke up during last night's match and watched it when I picked three wickets. He was sleeping in the previous match, and that's why my performance was not good. He is my happiness. He is my lucky charm. It's a different feeling. With a younger group now coming through, Rashid and his contemporaries find themselves in the role of custodians - telling the newcomers not just where Afghanistan cricket is, but what it cost to get here. We do talk to them. But we have put in a lot of effort, practised a lot, and given a lot of qurbani (sacrifices). All of it was done by the senior players, and I think this stage is the result of that. It's not like we got some things for free. We have put in a lot of effort. It's a matter of where we started to where we are now like from starting by playing against small teams to beating big sides. We do talk about it, but how to bring consistency in that and defeat them constantly and always bring in good performances. Home, for this team, is largely an idea sustained across hotel rooms in other countries, including playing away games. Rashid's squad packs it the only way it can - in small, edible, and familiar things. It's difficult to take so many things from Afghanistan with us. We don't spend much time in Afghanistan. But people's love and prayers are always with us, wherever we go. We can't take anything else with us, apart from their love and prayers. But we do carry the most famous dry fruits in Afghanistan to bring that home-like feeling. Like we eat dry fruits and have green tea in Afghanistan. We do the same around it so that we get back that feeling. Hopefully one day we can play an international match in Afghanistan - in Kabul and other cities. It's going to be a dream. New Delhi, meanwhile, is a city he knows well enough to have a favourite haunt he can no longer visit in peace Mazaar, a popular Afghan cuisine serving restaurant in Lajpat Nagar, a place where the diaspora is supremely active, apart from Bhogal in Jangpura. It's very difficult to go to Lajpat Nagar now. Before, it was fun going there no one would recognise us, and we would go to easily eat food and have fun. But it's difficult now, though at the same time, it's good the food comes from there, and we eat in the hotel. But it's still good. For all the records, franchise titles and wickets in every league on planet Earth, Rashid's definition of a career well spent will come down to a single, unclaimed piece of silverware an ICC title. Afghanistan came within touching distance of it in the 2024 Mens T20 World Cup, when they entered the semi-finals. It's very difficult to go to Lajpat Nagar now. Before, it was fun going there no one would recognise us, and we would go to easily eat food and have fun. But it's difficult now, though at the same time, it's good the food comes from there, and we eat in the hotel. But it's still good. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories But the most important thing is that I want Afghanistan to win one World Cup by the time I am there in the team. I think this will be a big achievement for me. I hope that before I retire, I have this in the book that yes, we won the championship or a World Cup, whether it is T20 or ODI, he signed off. Article Source: IANS
Amol Muzumdar Sends Strong Message As India Women Arrive In Japan For Asian Games Gold Defence
The Indian women's cricket team head coach Amol Muzumdar said his players are eagerly looking forward to the unique atmosphere of the Asian Games.
Women's Premier League 2027 To Be Staged From January 14 To February 7
The Player Retention deadline is set for September 28
WPL 2027 to be held in January-February
The fifth edition of the Women's Premier League (WPL) is scheduled from January 14 to February 7, 2027, with the player auction slated for October 28 in Kochi, the BCCI confirmed.
Suryakumar Celebrates Ganesh Chaturthi With Family
India's T20 World Cup winning captain Suryakumar Yadav, known as 'SKY', celebrated Ganesh Chaturthi with his wife Devisha and baby girl Riddhima, sharing a heartwarming post on social media.
Arun Jaitley Stadium: Afghanistan's premier leg-spinner Rashid Khan has admitted that his side were unable to read the conditions well in both T20Is against India and paid the price for a sluggish powerplay and poor shot selection, as the designated hosts suffered another seven-wicket loss on Tuesday to concede the series to the Shreyas Iyer-led side. Afghanistan were restricted to 159/8, a total that never looked like enough on a surface where big scores have been the norm and India chased it down easily in 14.5 overs. It now leaves Afghanistan to salvage pride in the final game happening at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Thursday. Well, we didn't read the conditions properly. I think the way it should have been, it hasn't happened. We have played a lot in Delhi and you have to post 200-210-220 runs if you want to win the match. So, according to me, we collapsed in the batting and didn't utilise the power-play properly. I think our shot selection was not at that level. So, we can improve on this. This is a good learning for us and next time, we will play with a better mind and better shot selection, Rashid told IANS in an exclusive interaction facilitated by Red Bull on Wednesday. Amid the gloom, Rashid was one of the few bright spots for his team, striking 28 with the bat before returning to claim 3-36 with the ball. His contribution with the willow came after a forgettable outing in the series opener, an innings he said had left him disappointed with himself and made him determined to bat with far greater intent. In the first match, I played ten balls and scored only one run. I was feeling very bad. Looking at the scoreboard, I said, 'This is not me. How can I score 1 run off 10 balls? So, I had the mind that the next time I go, I will show the intent, play positively, and use the experience to play for a good team. I tried to play with proper energy from ball one. At that time, the team needed runs. Still, 159 on that wicket was not enough. But I tried to stretch it as much as I could. If I could put more runs on the board, then I did and that's why it was a little peaceful, he added. Rashid, who has long been among the most economical bowlers in the shortest format via 196 scalps in T20Is and 739 wickets in T20s, stated that his approach with the ball on a batting-friendly pitch was built on keeping things uncomplicated and backing his plans regardless of the outcome of any single delivery. Well, my bowling was a simple plan. If I think more, I will get hit for runs. If I think less, it will be good for me. The plan was simple. Where do I want to bowl? Which batter do I want to bowl and in which way? Yes, you can get hit for a six. But if you stick to your plan, you will succeed. So, this was my plan - no matter what happens, no matter what they do, either hit fours or sixes aplenty, I have to execute my plan first. If I execute my plan, I will automatically get good results, he added. The obsession with AI worldwide has reached the Afghanistan dressing room too, as Rashid laughingly recalled a conversation after Tuesdays defeat. There's a very funny incident. After yesterday's game got over and we came back, Mujeeb was saying, 'I will ask AI over where I should bowl to Abhishek?' Everything nowadays is on AI. My timepass also happens with AI. I ask very strange questions to it and then try to see what it says. So, this was my plan - no matter what happens, no matter what they do, either hit fours or sixes aplenty, I have to execute my plan first. If I execute my plan, I will automatically get good results, he added. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories The endeavour is always to try to bowl in good areas and that's my mantra of success. I don't try to do too much bowl well in good areas, more success will come. But if you bowl less in good areas, then you will get less success. Article Source: IANS
WPL 2027 To Begin On January 14, Auction On October 28 In Kochi
WPL Player Auction: The fifth edition of the Womens Premier League (WPL) will be played from January 14 to February 7, 2027, with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announcing the key dates for the upcoming season on Wednesday. The first major deadline on the road to the new campaign will be the player retention deadline on September 28, giving the five franchises an opportunity to decide which members of their existing squads they want to retain. The next stage of squad-building will take place at the WPL Player Auction on October 28. The auction will be held at the Grand Hyatt Kochi, where franchises will seek to fill gaps and finalise their combinations for the fifth season. The 2027 tournament will follow the 2026 edition, in which Royal Challengers Bengaluru claimed their second WPL title by defeating Delhi Capitals in the final. The league continues to feature five franchises, RCB, DC, Mumbai Indians, Gujarat Giants and UP Warriorz, and provides a platform for both established international players and emerging Indian talent. The retention window will be particularly significant as franchises assess their squads ahead of the auction. With the five teams required to build balanced combinations across batting, bowling and all-round options, decisions made in September will shape their approach in Kochi a month later. The 2027 tournament will follow the 2026 edition, in which Royal Challengers Bengaluru claimed their second WPL title by defeating Delhi Capitals in the final. The league continues to feature five franchises, RCB, DC, Mumbai Indians, Gujarat Giants and UP Warriorz, and provides a platform for both established international players and emerging Indian talent. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories With the dates now confirmed, the immediate focus shifts to the franchises and their retention plans. Once those decisions are made by September 28, attention will turn to Kochi, where the October 28 auction will provide the next major step towards assembling the squads for the 2027 season. Article Source: IANS
India's bench strength and Naveen-ul-Haq's match-fitness in focus for final T20I
Despite having Farooqi in the XI, Afghanistan did not use him with the new ball. Could Naveen's return add heft to their seam attack?
Impact Player rule under consideration; IPL auction to take place in India, confirms Arun Dhumal
The IPL 2027 player auction is set to return to India after the recent practice of conducting the event overseas. The decision was taken at the Governing Council meeting on September 15. It will be a mini-auction, while the following years mega auction could once again be staged outside India, according to sources familiar with the developments.
AFG vs IND: Approaching Milestones and Records Ahead of 3rd T20I, Afghanistan vs India series 2026
AFG vs IND 3rd T20I,Approaching Milestones and Records :After an easy win in the first game, Team India recorded another win in the second T20I against the Afghanistan cricket team in Delhi. Nitish Kumar Reddy came good with the ball and recorded a figure of 3/24 to make the difference. He won his second Man of the Match award in just his sixth T20I match. Sanju Samson also gave a fitting reply to his critics with a 20-ball fifty, scoring 57 off 22 balls. Abhishek Sharma scored a quickfire 39 off 19 balls, whereas Ishan Kishan scored an unbeaten 38 off 23 balls. Afghanistan had another disappointing batting display, and they failed. With the ball, they didn't have much to defend. Team India have won the series, and they will be aiming to make it 3-0. The final T20I will kick off at 7:30 PM IST on Thursday at Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. This a dead rubber game and India should give chance to those who have not played yet. Here, we will talk about big records and milestones which are lined up and can be achieved in the AFG vs IND 3rd T20I at Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. AFG vs IND: Approaching Test Records and Cricket Milestones Ahead of the AFG vs IND 3rd T20I at Arun Jaitley Stadium 87 - Captain Ibrahim Zadran needs 87 more runs to become only the fourth Afghan batter to score 2000 runs in T20I cricket. He will become the fastest Afghan batter to do so. He is also five sixes away from reaching 50 T20I sixes. 20 - Abhishek Sharma needs 200 runs to become the sixth highest scorer for India in T20I cricket, surpassing Shikhar Dhawan (1759). 1 - Samson completed 1000 T20I runs as opener in the last game. He needs one more run to complete 1500 runs in this format for India. 76 - Indian Captain Shreyas Iyer is just 76 runs away from completing 1500 T20I runs. 6 - Six more wickets and Rashid Khan will become the first bowler to reach the world record of 200 T20I wickets. 4 - Ishan Kishan needs four runs to surpass Karanbir Singh (Austria) and become the leading scorer in T20I in 2026. 4 - Samson needs four sixes to surpass Suryakumar Yadav (429) and will have the third-most T20 sixes by an Indian. 2 - Ishan Kishan needs two more sixes to reach 350 T20 sixes. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories 23 - Sanju Samson is just 23 runs away from becoming the only fifth Indian with 9000 T20 runs.
AFG Vs IND: When And Where To Watch Third T20I, Know All Details
Arun Jaitley Stadium: With the series already secured, India will look to use the third and final T20I against Afghanistan as an opportunity to fine-tune their squad ahead of the Asian Games, with the Arun Jaitley Stadium set to host the contest on Thursday. The match comes after India produced virtually identical seven-wicket victories in the opening two games. They successfully chased targets of 157 and 160, respectively, leaving Afghanistan with little to show despite moments of individual brilliance. The second T20I followed a familiar pattern. Rahmanullah Gurbaz fell for a second straight duck before Ibrahim Zadrans 37 provided Afghanistan with some stability. Mohammad Nabi and Rashid Khan then added 48 for the sixth wicket, helping their side reach 159/8. Nitish Kumar Reddy and Arshdeep Singh claimed five wickets between them. Indias response was largely comfortable, with Sanju Samsons 57, Abhishek Sharmas 39 and Ishan Kishans unbeaten 38 guiding the hosts home. The result leaves India with a selection decision for the finale. Shreyas Iyer indicated after Tuesdays win that changes could be made, particularly with the team due to travel to Japan for the Asian Games, which begin on September 19. That could open the door for players who have remained on the sidelines, including teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. Sooryavanshi, the Player of the Series in Indias recent Zimbabwe T20I campaign, has not featured in this series. Samson, meanwhile, returned after being rested in Zimbabwe and has responded with form, while Abhishek has also contributed at the top. With both being established one-format players, breaking up the opening combination may not be an automatic decision. Ravi Bishnoi is expected to retain his place after coming in for the injured Varun Chakravarthy. Afghanistan could also consider a pace change, with Naveen-ul-Haq having yet to feature despite being fit. Fazalhaq Farooqi, meanwhile, has gone wicketless in the series. The Delhi conditions could again favour the batters, with short boundaries potentially encouraging another high-scoring encounter. Thunderstorms are forecast, with around 75 per cent cloud cover expected, making conditions worth monitoring before the start. For India, the final game is less about the series result and more about determining who can make an impact before the Asian Games assignment begins. For Afghanistan, it offers one last chance to disrupt an otherwise one-sided contest. When: Thursday, September 17, 7:30 PM IST Where: Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi Where to watch: The match will be shown live on Sony Sports Ten 5 SD & HD channels. Live-streaming will be available on the FanCode app and website. Squads: Where to watch: The match will be shown live on Sony Sports Ten 5 SD & HD channels. Live-streaming will be available on the FanCode app and website. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Afghanistan: Ibrahim Zadran (c), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Noor Rahman (wk), Sediqullah Atal, Darwish Rasooli, Azmatullah Omarzai, Gulbadin Naib, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Nangyal Kharoti, Noor Ahmad, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Fazal Haq Farooqi, Abdullah Ahmadzai and Naveen-ul-Haq. Article Source: IANS
