Cricket News

Warner open to taking on middle-order role for Thunder

Asked about an opening partnership with Sam Konstas, Warner revealed tactical discussions are taking place

'Nothing ruled in or out': Winds of change blowing through BBL

The new BBL season comes amid extensive talks about the future of the competition and what potential privatisation could look like

Shadab Targets World Cup With A Good Bigbash Stint, Rues Ashwin Miss: Report

Twenty20 World Cup: Spin all-rounder Shadab Khan hopes a good season with the Sydney Thunder will help him regain his place in the Pakistan squad for the upcoming Twenty20 World Cup 2026, ruing a missed chance to play alongside Indian great Ravichandran Ashwin, says a report on Friday. The 27-year-old leg-spinner has not played for Pakistan since a home T20I series against Bangladesh in June this year, as he had to undergo shoulder surgery before a long rehab. He will play his fourth season in the Australian T20 league, having previously played for Sydney Sixers, Hobart Hurricanes, and Brisbane Heat, the report added. It's a great opportunity, and I'm pleased that major Pakistani names are playing in the BBL this time, Shadab told Telecom Asia Sport (www.telecomasia.net). The league is getting recognition because of them as well, he said during a virtual media talk from Sydney. But Shadab rued a missed chance to learn from Aswin, who was due to play for Sydney Thunder before pulling out on fitness grounds. It could have been great to have played alongside Ashiwn because he has been a great bowler, said Shadab, who has played against the Indian maestro on numerous occasions. Shadab said he was pleased to see six other Pakistan players featuring in the latest Bigbash season. Former captain Babar Azam will line up for Sydney Sixers, Shaheen Shah Afridi for Brisbane Heat, Haris Rauf for Melbourne Stars, Mohammad Rizwan and Hassan Khan for Melbourne Renegades, and Hasan Ali for Adelaide Strikers. Pakistani cricketers have played in Australia before, but never in such numbers and never all at once, Shadab, excited at the unique opportunity to play against some of his team-mates, told www.telecomasia.net. Back home, we've played against each other, but this is the first time we'll be doing it abroad. We're all looking forward to it. Playing against friends has a different feeling, Shadab said. Our fans are excited as well; theyre waiting for the BBL to start. We played the T20 World Cup here in 2022 and received great support. With big Pakistani names in action in the BBL, well get a lot of support again. The BBL is very important for me. I'll be back in action after five months. It's a great opportunity for me, and I want to make the most of it, Shadab said. Injuries are part of the game its not as if only I get injured, but it is very disappointing to miss cricket. Our fans are excited as well; theyre waiting for the BBL to start. We played the T20 World Cup here in 2022 and received great support. With big Pakistani names in action in the BBL, well get a lot of support again. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The tenth edition of the Twenty20 World Cup will be held from February 7 to March 8 in India and Sri Lanka. Article Source: IANS

Rahul Gandhi To Attend Messis GOAT India Tour Event In Hyderabad

Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium: Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi will attend football legend Lionel Messis GOAT India tour event at Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium in Hyderabad on December 13. LoP Rahul Gandhi will witness a friendly match between the teams led by Messi and Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy. The Chief Minister, during his visit to Delhi on Thursday, had invited Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi to attend the event. Meanwhile, tight security arrangements are being made for an hour-long event on Saturday night. Thousands of fans are eagerly waiting for the event to see Messis magic live on the field. Authorities have made elaborate arrangements for the smooth conduct of the event, which is expected to see a participation of 39,000 spectators. Police have announced a series of measures for crowd management. Rachakonda Police Commissioner Sudheer Babu has announced that only ticket holders would be allowed into the stadium. A total of 2,500 police personnel will be deployed as part of the security arrangements for the event. Police have imposed traffic curbs on the roads surrounding the stadium located in the busy Uppal area. Messi is scheduled to arrive at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport at 4 p.m. He will drive to the Taj Falaknuma Hotel to attend a programme before leaving for the stadium. After the event, he will return to the hotel for the night's halt. CM Revanth Reddy, who will be leading RR9 against Messi10, has been practising hard with football players at different grounds in the city for the last few days. The match is to be played as part of Messis GOAT Tour 2025. The Chief Minister will wear Jersey number 9, and Messi his famous jersey number 10. Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka said thousands of football fans were expected to come to see the match. He urged them to arrive early and settle into their seats to ensure both security and convenience. Special routes have been designated for the arrival and departure of Messi, LoP Rahul Gandhi, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, ministers, and other VIPs. Vikramarka stated that the match is being organised as part of Telangana Rising celebrations. According to him, Messi showed personal interest in being part of the celebrations. IT Minister Sridhar Babu said Messi would be here for a social cause and not just a friendly match. He said they were focusing on ensuring seamless coordination, public safety and a vibrant sporting atmosphere that reflects Telanganas growing enthusiasm for major sporting events. IT Minister Sridhar Babu said Messi would be here for a social cause and not just a friendly match. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The Chief Minister is trying to rope in the football legend to project the states dynamism to the world through sports, tourism, investment promotion and youth outreach. Article Source: IANS

Assam Cricket Association Suspends Four Players For Corrupt Practice, Illegal Approach To SMAT 2025 Players

The Assam Cricket Association: The Assam Cricket Association (ACA) has suspended four players, who have represented Assam at various stages, with immediate effect after allegations emerged that they were involved in corrupt practices and attempting to influence and instigate some of the current Assam team players. The four playersAmit Sinha, Ishan Ahmed, Aman Tripathi and Abhishek Thakuri are accused of trying to influence players who took part in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025 held in Lucknow from November 26 to December 8. Following the emergence of these allegations, the Anti-Corruption and Security Unit (ACSU) of the BCCI conducted an inquiry. The Assam Cricket Association has also initiated criminal proceedings in this matter. Prima facie, there appears to be involvement of the aforementioned four players in serious misconduct, affecting the integrity of the sport, the ACA informed in a release on Friday. The players were suspended to curtail any scope of further deterioration of the situation, the release informed. Accordingly, during the suspension period, the players are barred from taking part in any state-level tournament or match conducted under the Assam Cricket Association, District Units, or affiliated clubs, besides participating in any cricket-related activity, including officiating as match referee, coach, umpire etc. The suspension will continue until the final outcome of the investigation and/or any further decision of the Association, the release said. The Assam Cricket Association also directed all district associations to ensure strict compliance with this order and to inform clubs and cricket academies under their jurisdiction of the necessary action. The suspension will continue until the final outcome of the investigation and/or any further decision of the Association, the release said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The Assam Cricket Association has also lodged an FIR at the Crime Branch, Guwahati, against the said four players on Friday (December 12, 2025). Article Source: IANS

ICC, JioStar Quash Exit Rumours; To Continue Four-year Deal

The International Cricket Council: The International Cricket Council (ICC) and JioStar have reaffirmed their long-term partnership and refuted any rumours that the media partner is considering ending the four-year deal. The International Cricket Council (ICC) and JioStar have noted recent media reports concerning the status of the ICCs media rights agreement in India. These reports do not reflect the position of either organisation. The existing agreement between the ICC and JioStar remains fully in force, and JioStar continues as the ICCs official media rights partner in India. Any suggestion that JioStar has withdrawn from the agreement is incorrect, the joint statement from ICC and JioStar read. It further stated, JioStar is fully committed to honour its contractual obligations in letter and spirit. Both organisations remain focused on delivering uninterrupted, world-class coverage of upcoming ICC events to fans across India, including the ICC Mens T20 World Cup, one of the sports most anticipated global tournaments. Advertisers and industry partners will not be impacted, according to the ICC and JioStar, since both parties are taking the necessary action. It further stated, JioStar is fully committed to honour its contractual obligations in letter and spirit. Both organisations remain focused on delivering uninterrupted, world-class coverage of upcoming ICC events to fans across India, including the ICC Mens T20 World Cup, one of the sports most anticipated global tournaments. Also Read: Live Cricket Score JioStar paid USD 3 billion to acquire the ICC's media rights agreement from 2024 to 2027, guaranteeing the hosting of one major men's international event annually. Article Source: IANS

Minhas, Hussain tons set up Pakistan U-19s' massive win over Malaysia

Malaysia's chase never took flight, as they were bowled out for 48 inside 20 overs

U19 Asia Cup: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's 171 Sets Up Indias Huge Win Over UAE

U19 Asia Cup: Vaibhav Sooryavanshis blistering 171 off 95 balls powered India U19 to a commanding 234run victory over UAE U19 in their Asia Cup opener at the ICC Academy on Friday. Apart from Suryavanshis spectacular knock, Aaron George (69) and Vihaan Malhotra (69) contributed with crucial half-centuries. Vedant Trivedi (38), Abhigyan Kundu (32) and Kanishk Chouhan (28) provided the finishing touches to India U19 posting a massive 433/6, the highest score in tournaments history. Its also Indias highest total in U19 ODIs and the thirdhighest ever score in mens U19 oneday cricket. Suryavanshi's knock was laced with nine fours and 14 sixes coming at a strike rate of 180. He brought up his half-century in 30 balls, before getting his century in just 56 deliveries and reaching his 150 in 84 balls. His 14 sixes are the most by any batter in the tournaments history, going past Afghanistans Darwish Rasooli who struck 10 against UAE in 2017. In reply, UAE made 199/7 in 50 overs, with Uddish Suris unbeaten 78 and Prithvi Madhus fifty being the lone resistance acts for the hosts. India U19 will next face Pakistan U19 in their group stage clash on Sunday. Meanwhile, Pakistan U19 launched their campaign with a crushing 297run win over Malaysia at The Sevens Stadium. Centuries from Ahmed Hussain and debutant Sameer Minhas powered the side to 345/3 before the bowlers bundled Malaysia out for just 48 in 19.4 overs. Minhas was the star of the show with an unbeaten 177 off 148 balls, striking 11 fours and eight sixes to claim the Player of the Match honour. He shared a mammoth 293run stand with Hussain, who made 132 off 114 deliveries, and ensured Pakistans dominance from the outset. Malaysia never recovered from early blows in the chase, as Ali Raza struck with the new ball to finish with 3-11, while Mohammad Sayyam also took three wickets and Daniyal Ali Khan and Niqab Shafiq chipped in to complete a resounding win for Pakistan U19. Minhas was the star of the show with an unbeaten 177 off 148 balls, striking 11 fours and eight sixes to claim the Player of the Match honour. He shared a mammoth 293run stand with Hussain, who made 132 off 114 deliveries, and ensured Pakistans dominance from the outset. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Pakistan 345/3 in 50 overs (Sameer Minhas 177 not out, Ahmed Hussain 132; Nagineswaran Sathnakumaran 2-91) beat Malaysia 48 all out in 19.4 overs (Deaaz Patro 9; Ali Raza 3-11, Mohammad Sayyam 3-27) by 297 runs Article Source: IANS

SMAT: Haryana Defeats Rajasthan, Kushagra Helps Jharkhand Chase Down 236 Against Punjab

Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Super: Haryana opened their Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Super League campaign with a commanding sevenwicket win over Rajasthan, while Kumar Kushagra slammed an unbeaten 86 to help Jharkhand chase down a massive 236 against a formidable Punjab. At the MCA Stadium, fast bowlers Anshul Kamboj and Ishant Bhardwaj set the tone by sharing four wickets between themselves to restrict Rajasthan to 132/8. In reply, captain Ankit Kumars fluent 41ball 60 sealed the chase with 22 balls to spare. After electing to field first, Haryana made immediate inroads as Rajasthan lost four wickets inside the PowerPlay. Kunal Singh Rathore fell cheaply, while Deepak Hooda was run out without scoring in bizarre fashion. Shubham Garhwals 33 and Mahipal Lomrors unbeaten 37 offered resistance, while Rahul Chahar chipped in with 20 runs down the order. But the innings never recovered from the early collapse. Kamboj and Bhardwaj finished with identical figures of 2-24. Chasing 133, Haryanas top order ensured there were no early setbacks. Ankit forged stands of 37, 52 and 40 with Aarsh Ranga, Yashvardhan Dalal and Himanshu Rana to keep the scoreboard moving. His knock, laced with eight fours and a six, was his third fifty of the tournament as Haryana cruised home in a modest chase. Meanwhile, at the DY Patil Academy in Ambi, Jharkhand scripted history by overhauling Punjabs 235/6 and set a new record for the highestever chase in the history of the competition. Kushagras unbeaten 86 came off 42 balls, as Jharkhand romped home with six wickets in hand and 11 balls to spare. Punjabs innings was built around a blistering knock from wicketkeeperbatter Salil Arora, who smashed 125 off just 45 deliveries, including reaching his hundred in 39 balls. After his fireworks, Jharkhands response was equally emphatic. Skipper Ishan Kishan struck 47 off 23 balls to set the tone for the successful chase, before Kushagra stitched crucial partnerships with him, Anukul Roy and Pankaj Kumar to secure Jharkhands eighth consecutive win in the tournament. Punjabs innings was built around a blistering knock from wicketkeeperbatter Salil Arora, who smashed 125 off just 45 deliveries, including reaching his hundred in 39 balls. After his fireworks, Jharkhands response was equally emphatic. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Punjab 235/6 in 20 overs (Salil Arora 125 not out, Naman Dhir 27; Sushant Mishra 2-47, Bal Krishna 2-66) lost to Jharkhand 237/4 in 18.1 overs (Kumar Kushagra 86, Ishan Kishan 47; Ramandeep Singh 1-37, Sanvir Singh 1-40) by six wickets Article Source: IANS

James Anderson Appointed Lancashire Captain For 2026 County Season

James Anderson: Lancashire Cricket on Friday appointed former England cricketer James Anderson as full-time County Championship captain ahead of the 2026 season. After agreeing to a new one-year deal with the Red Rose in November, Andersonwho held the position temporarily during the 2025 seasonwill now assume the red-ball leadership permanently. The 43-year-old, England's all-time top wicket taker, retired from international cricket last year after making his Lancashire debut in 2002 and playing for the Red Rose throughout his domestic career. Captaining Lancashire for the first time last season was a huge privilege, and Im honoured to take on the role full-time heading into the new season. Weve got a fantastic group of players, a great blend of youth and experience, and Im excited about what we can achieve together with promotion back to Division One our number one priority. Im grateful for the support from Crofty and from my teammates, and Im looking forward to leading the side into the new County Championship season in April, James Anderson said in a statement. Anderson passed 300 career appearances in first-class cricket last summer and will head into the 2026 campaign looking to add to his tally of 1,143 wickets in the format. Josh Bohannon, who was appointed vice captain in 2024, will remain in that position. Additionally, Keaton Jennings will continue to captain the Vitality Blast. Mens head coach Steven Croft added, Jimmy is an outstanding leader whose influence on the squad is immense. His experience in cricket is second to none, and the way he stepped into the captaincy during the second half of last season showed exactly why hes the right person for the job. Josh Bohannon, who was appointed vice captain in 2024, will remain in that position. Additionally, Keaton Jennings will continue to captain the Vitality Blast. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With Jimmy as captain and Josh continuing as vice-captain, we have a strong, stable leadership team that will drive our ambitions in the County Championship next season. Article Source: IANS

Hampshire announce signings of Michael Neser and Jake Lehmann

Australia allrounder Neser joins for County Championship stint, while Lehmann agrees two-year deal as local player

James Anderson named as Lancashire's Championship captain

Former England seamer extends commitment to long-term club as he takes over four-day reins

Neser And Lehmann To Join Hampshire For Next Years County Championship

In Michael Neser: Australia duo Michael Neser and Jake Lehmann will join Hampshire for the 2026 County Championship season. Neser, fresh from taking a five-wicket haul in the recent Ashes win in Brisbane, is set to feature in the first six Championship matches before the T20 Blast. Neser, 35, took 13 wickets for Hampshire in 2024 across eight matches in the county championship and T20 blast. In Michael Neser and Jake Lehmann, we have two players who have the ability to make a significant impact. Michael brings valuable runs alongside his quality with the ball - he will partner Kyle Abbott as one of our overseas players, said Giles White, Director of Cricket at Hampshire, in a statement. Meanwhile, Lehmann, the son of former Australia player and current Northamptonshire head coach Darren Lehmann, has signed a twoyear allformat deal with the club. He has scored 5,684 runs in 97 first-class cricket games for South Australia with 16 centuries against his name. In the ongoing Sheffield Shield, Lehmann is South Australias leading run scorer and has the third-most runs of anyone in the competition with 426 runs. He has also scored two centuries and one fifty (96 v Western Australia) in his ten innings so far. Jake is in outstanding form and is the leading run scorer in Shield cricket over the past 18 months. With a British passport, he is eligible to play as a locally qualified player, allowing flex in strengthening the squad. Both players possess a great attitude and bring quality and experience; its a great boost as we look to finalise our plans ahead of 2026, added White. In the ongoing Sheffield Shield, Lehmann is South Australias leading run scorer and has the third-most runs of anyone in the competition with 426 runs. He has also scored two centuries and one fifty (96 v Western Australia) in his ten innings so far. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Im excited to join Hampshire on a two-year deal, its great to return to county cricket. Hampshire has a fantastic history of Australian players and to follow in the footsteps of Shane Warne, Matthew Hayden and the like is really special. I look forward to joining up with the team at Utilita Bowl and hopefully contributing to the trophy cabinet, added Lehmann. Article Source: IANS

Bahrain Pacer Ali Dawood Claims Second-best Figures In Men's T20I History

T20 World Cup Asia: Bahrain pacer Ali Dawood etched his name into the record books by picking 7-19, the secondbest figures in mens T20I history, against Bhutan. The 33yearold seamer became only the second bowler after Malaysias Syazrul Idrus to take seven wickets in a T20I. His efforts dismantled Bhutans chase in Gelephu and sealed a 35run win for Bahrain in the third match of their fivegame series. Introduced in the third over, Dawood struck twice to leave the hosts tottering at 11/3, before returning late to rip through the lower order. Dawood, who was born in Sialkot in Pakistan, claimed three wickets in the 16th over and two more in his next over to finish with 7-19. Despite having a 67run fourthwicket stand, Bhutan were bowled out for 125, handing Bahrain, who made 160/4, a 21 lead in the fivematch series. Dawood now sits behind seamer Idrus, who picked an incredible 7-8 against China during an ICC Men's T20 World Cup Asia B Qualifier match at Bayuemas Oval in 2023. Incidentally, all of his seven wickets were bowled dismissals. Singapores Harsha Bharadwaj (6-3 against Mongolia in 2024), Nigerias Peter Aho (6-5 against Sierra Leone in 2021) and Indias Deepak Chahar (6-7 against Bangladesh in 2019) complete the top five performances in mens T20I format. Dawood now sits behind seamer Idrus, who picked an incredible 7-8 against China during an ICC Men's T20 World Cup Asia B Qualifier match at Bayuemas Oval in 2023. Incidentally, all of his seven wickets were bowled dismissals. Also Read: Live Cricket Score For now, with this spell, Dawood has now 96 wickets from 64 T20Is at an average of 14.10. His economy rate is at a measly 5.96. The one against Bhutan was his maiden fifer in T20Is, in addition to the three four-wicket hauls Dawood has. Article Source: IANS

Langer, LSG Will Target Australian Players In IPL Auction, Opines Saba Karim

Lucknow Super Giants: Lucknow Super Giants head coach Justin Langer is expected to focus on acquiring Australian talent at the upcoming IPL auction, according to former India selector Saba Karim. LSG will enter the upcoming IPL 2026 auction, to be held in Abu Dhabi on December 16, with a purse of Rs 22.95 crore and have to fill six slots, four of which are for overseas players. I think Justin Langer and LSG will target the Australian players in the auction. They need to be strong at the auction and target players like Cameron Green and Aaron Hardie. Both are handy all-rounders who can bat and bowl. Australians have a winning mentality, which LSG wants. In their bowling attack, they brought in Mohammed Shami. I think their bowling coach, Bharat Arun, believes Shami can still deliver. They needed someone to lead the attack, since the other fast bowlers, like Mayank Yadav and Mohsin Khan, are Indian. Bharat Arun feels Shami can guide these young bowlers, said Karim on JioStar. Before auctions, LSG were fairly active in acquiring pacers Mohammed Shami and Arjun Tendulkar via trades. Langer talked about the happiness in acquiring a veteran fast bowler like Shami, who he feels is one of the happiest persons in the cricketing world. Mohammed Shami is a real competitor and a warrior. There has been a lot of talk about him. As a past coach against him, you knew the team was always in the fight if Shami was playing. The biggest worry for a coach is keeping him fit. I would rather have more fast bowlers than less. When you talk about heartbreaks, there is no better person. He is probably one of the best team players and the best people I have met in cricket. His energy is unbelievable. I expected him to be picked in the next auction because he offers so much. Luckily, we got him in a trade deal, so I am really happy and look forward to working with him. Mohammed Shami is a real competitor and a warrior. There has been a lot of talk about him. As a past coach against him, you knew the team was always in the fight if Shami was playing. The biggest worry for a coach is keeping him fit. I would rather have more fast bowlers than less. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Their Indian players did exceptionally well last season, and they will hope that continues. Fast bowlers are always good to have as backup, so that is one area they could look at. They would have also identified a few talented uncapped Indians to consider. They will want to fill an overseas slot, as they have released three overseas players. They could look for a wicketkeeper-batter to fill Josh Inglis' position, said Kumble. Article Source: IANS

Men's U19 Asia Cup: India Script History, Post Mammoth 433/6 Vs UAE In Opener

Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: India recorded the highest-ever score in Men's U19 Asia Cup history, posting 433/6 in its tournament opener against UAE here at ICC Academy Ground on Friday. Teenage star Vaibhav Suryavanshi made a spectacular 171, while Aaron George (69) and Vihaan Malhotra (69) contributed with crucial half-centuries. Vedant Trivedi (38), Abhigyan Kundu (32) and Kanishk Chouhan (28) provided the finishing touch to the record total. India moved past its own highest total in U19 ODIs 425/3 scored against Scotland in 2004. Overall, India's total of 433 is the third-highest score ever by a team in a mens U19 one-day game. Moreover, 14-year-old Suryavanshi scored a record-breaking 171 off just 95 balls, shattering the mark for the highest score by an Indian in the U19 Asia Cup. The previous best was Himanshu Ranas 130 against Afghanistan in Colombo in 2016. Soumya Sarkar of Bangladesh holds the record for most runs in an innings in U19 Asia Cup. He smashed 209 against Qatar in 2012. Suryavanshi's innings, decorated with nine fours, came at a strike rate of 180. He brought up his half-century in 30 balls, his century in just 56 and 150 in 84 balls. He also launched 14 sixes - the most by any batter in the tournaments history, going past Afghanistans Darwish Rasooli who struck 10 against UAE in 2017. Suryavanshi was dismissed in the 33rd over with the score on 265/3, giving India a launchpad to score more than 400. Suryavanshi's innings, decorated with nine fours, came at a strike rate of 180. He brought up his half-century in 30 balls, his century in just 56 and 150 in 84 balls. He also launched 14 sixes - the most by any batter in the tournaments history, going past Afghanistans Darwish Rasooli who struck 10 against UAE in 2017. Also Read: Live Cricket Score At the Rising Stars Asia Cup earlier this year, Suryavanshi scored 144 off 42 balls for India A against UAE, smashing 11 fours and 15 sixes. Article Source: IANS

Satterthwaite, Peterson And Tsukigawa Appointed As NZ's Regional Female Pathway Leads

Former New Zealand: Former New Zealand captain Amy Satterthwaite, along with Anna Peterson and Sarah Tsukigawa, has been appointed female pathway lead for Auckland, Canterbury and Otago, respectively, in a move aimed at strengthening regional development structures. The group of pathway managers will be overseen by former New Zealand womens wicketkeeperbatter Sara McGlashan, who has been named lead for the nationwide programme. From strengthening relationships with clubs and schools to driving high-quality training environments, theyre helping create thriving pathways for young cricketers. Environments where players feel supported, inspired, and confident to push their potential is pivotal to their development. Having three former players step into pathway manager roles is enormously valuable. Their experience allows them to connect with players in a way that truly accelerates development and inspires the next generation on where their journey in cricket can take them, said Sara in a statement by NZC on Friday. Amy, the former New Zealand captain, is the most experienced of the newly appointed pathway leads, having played 145 ODIs and 111 T20Is before retiring from international cricket in 2022. She then joined WBBL side Adelaide Strikers as assistant coach. Anna, meanwhile, featured in 65 international white-ball games for New Zealand from 2012 to 2020 and has returned to cricket after recently leading the Women and Girls Strategy at Auckland Rugby Union as the Game Development Officer. Amy, the former New Zealand captain, is the most experienced of the newly appointed pathway leads, having played 145 ODIs and 111 T20Is before retiring from international cricket in 2022. She then joined WBBL side Adelaide Strikers as assistant coach. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Apart from this, Luke Pomfret has joined the Northern Districts pathway team, adding experience from his stints with English counties Middlesex and Northamptonshire. He will work alongside Jamie Watkins, who continues to head the Central Districts programme. Article Source: IANS

Keshav Maharaj Named Pretoria Capitals Captain Ahead Of SA20 Season 4

Durban Super Giants: South Africas left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj has been named as captain of Pretoria Capitals for the upcoming SA20 season four, the franchise said on Friday. Maharaj, who led Durban Super Giants in the previous edition of the competition, will take over from Rilee Rossouw at the Capitals. One of South Africas most experienced and respected leaders, Maharaj brings a wealth of international pedigree across formats, along with a proven track record of guiding teams with composure, clarity and intent. Having captained South Africa in white-ball cricket and served as a senior figure within the national setup for several years, Maharajs leadership experience, tactical understanding and consistency make him an invaluable addition in this role. His presence strengthens the balance and direction of the Pretoria Capitals squad as the team heads into the new season, said the franchise in a release. Pretoria Capitals will enter the upcoming SA20 season with a new look coaching staff as well former India captain Sourav Ganguly will be taking charge as the head coach and will be assisted by former South Africa captain Shaun Pollock. The Capitals were the most active franchise at the September auction, armed with the biggest purse of 32.5 million rand and 16 slots to fill. They broke the SA20 pay record by splurging 16.5 million rand on big-hitting batter Dewald Brevis and also secured Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi, Lizaad Williams, Craig Overton, Saqib Mahmood and Codi Yusuf. Andre Russell, who recently quit IPL as a player and has now transitioned as a power coach for Kolkata Knight Riders, was added as a wild card signing, while Will Jacks and Sherfane Rutherford were retained ahead of the auction. The Capitals were the most active franchise at the September auction, armed with the biggest purse of 32.5 million rand and 16 slots to fill. They broke the SA20 pay record by splurging 16.5 million rand on big-hitting batter Dewald Brevis and also secured Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi, Lizaad Williams, Craig Overton, Saqib Mahmood and Codi Yusuf. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The new SA20 season begins on December 26 with MI Cape Town facing Durbans Super Giants. Capitals will open their campaign on the following day against Joburg Super Kings, with the final scheduled to be played on January 25, 2026. Article Source: IANS

Keshav Maharaj to lead Pretoria Capitals at SA20

Pretoria Capitals have a revamped squad and support staff for the upcoming SA20 season

SMAT: Nitish Reddys Hattrick In Vain As Andhra Lose To MP By 4 Wickets

Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Super: Seam bowling all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddys hattrick gave Andhra a glimmer of hope, but Madhya Pradesh recovered from 14/3 to chase down 113 and win by four wickets in their first game of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Super League stage at the DY Patil Academy on Friday. Reddy, who joined the Andhra team after being in Indias squads for Tests and ODIs against South Africa, struck in the third over to dismiss Harsh Gawli, Harpreet Bhatia and Rajat Patidar in quick succession. Soon after Venkatesh Iyers dismissal left MP wobbling at 37/4. But a composed 73run stand for the fifth wicket between Rishabh Chouhan and Rahul Batham steadied the chase. Chouhan made 47 off 43 balls with six fours, while Batham remained unbeaten on 35 off 32 deliveries to see MP home with 15 balls to spare and pick up four crucial points. Previously, Reddy had added 50 runs for the third wicket with wicketkeeper-batter KS Bharat after Andhra slipped to 7/2. Bharat topscored with 39 before being dismissed by Iyer, triggering a collapse that saw Andhra lose eight wickets for 55 runs and be bowled out for 112 in 19.1 overs. But a composed 73run stand for the fifth wicket between Rishabh Chouhan and Rahul Batham steadied the chase. Chouhan made 47 off 43 balls with six fours, while Batham remained unbeaten on 35 off 32 deliveries to see MP home with 15 balls to spare and pick up four crucial points. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: Andhra 112 all out in 19.1 overs (KS Bharat 39, Nitish Kumar Reddy 25; Shivam Shukla 4-23, Tripuresh Singh 3-31) lost to Madhya Pradesh 113/6 in 17.3 overs (Rishabh Chouhan 47, Rahul Batham 35 not out; Nitish Kumar Reddy 3-17, KV Sasikanth 1-12) by four wickets Article Source: IANS

'La Pulga' Fever Grips Delhi Ahead Of Messi-merising December 15

Prime Minister Narendra Modi: Delhi is in the grip of full-blown football frenzy as Lionel Messi 'La Pulga' the little magician with the giant footprint prepares to land in the national capital on December 15. What began as buzz has escalated into electricity, with fans counting down the moments until the Argentine legend walks into the Arun Jaitley Stadium. One thing is certain: Delhi isnt just welcoming a star; its getting ready to be utterly 'Messi-merised'. Across the city, football has spilled onto the streets. Argentina jerseys dominate marketplaces, graffiti artists are splashing Messi tributes across walls, and neighbourhood gullies echo with kids trying to bend the ball like La Pulga. For us, this is bigger than a festival, said a fan from Karol Bagh who has been collecting Messi posters since he was 6. Messi coming to Delhi feels unreal. I havent slept properly for a week. Fan clubs are gearing up with early-morning queues, drum-led chants, and massive tifos set to unfurl the instant Messi steps onto the turf. A college student from South Campus, summed up the excitement: Ive watched Messi my whole life on TV. To see him walk out in front of me thats a childhood dream finally taking shape. Inside the stadium, preparations mirror the hype. Security teams and volunteers are bracing for a massive early surge, with stands expected to fill long before the programme begins. But the frenzy goes deeper than a single visit. Messis arrival underscores just how sharply footballs pulse has quickened in India. In a country where cricket has long dominated, the sheer scale of Messis draw shows how firmly the beautiful game has taken root in the dreams of young players. Messi is the reason I picked up a football, said a 14-year-old fan, practising step-overs outside his school in Dwarka. If I get to see him once, even from far away, thats enough motivation for the next 10 years. Come December 15, when Messi steps out and the roar rises to the sky, Delhi wont just witness a global icon; it will watch an entire city lose itself, happily and wholeheartedly, to La Pulga fever. Messi is the reason I picked up a football, said a 14-year-old fan, practising step-overs outside his school in Dwarka. If I get to see him once, even from far away, thats enough motivation for the next 10 years. Also Read: Live Cricket Score As part of the tour, the Argentine forward will visit Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi. The tour will conclude in the capital, where Messi is also expected to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Article Source: IANS

Head At No. 5 'a Worse Result For England': Warner Backs Khawaja To Open In Adelaide

New Delhi: Former Australia batter David Warner has backed his ex-opening partner Usman Khawaja to return to the top of the order for the third Ashes Test in Adelaide, suggesting that sliding Travis Head at No. 5 can pose more threat for England. In the series opener in Perth, Khawaja was unable to open in Australias first innings after spending extended time off the field with a back complaint during Englands batting. Marnus Labuschagne stepped in initially, but on day two Travis Head capitalised on the opportunity, producing a match-winning Ashes century for the ages. But Khawaja is fit again and has been named in the 15-man squad for the Adelaide Test. His most probable return would see him slot back into the opening role, pushing Travis Head down to No. 5, although head coach Andrew McDonald stressed that the openers spot isnt his only option. However, David Warner backed Khawaja to slot straight back into the side in his usual spot, despite concerns over his form, as he has gone 11 Test innings without a fifty. Of course (he deserves that spot). Everyone gets injured. I think Uzzy comes back in, slides to the top, and Trav goes down. Thats probably a worse result for England Travis Head going back down the order, Warner told reporters ahead of the Sydney Thunders BBL match against the Hobart Hurricanes. Travis put his hand up to bat in the situation he was in. He came out and batted the way Travis Head does. Youve seen plenty of interviews from Trav saying thats Uzzies spot and that when the time comes for them to ask him to go up the order, he more than likely wouldnt want to do that. In about 2022/23, we were looking at Travis Head to potentially open the batting, but at that point in time, we didnt have that aggressor in the middle order. Australia has that now, and looking forward, whenever Uzzie decides to hang them up, they can look that way. But then its about all of us who work in the media understanding that it potentially might not work and that Travis might go back down the order, and then theyll have to find another opener. The selectors have a headache, and Im glad Im not one of them, he added. Australia has that now, and looking forward, whenever Uzzie decides to hang them up, they can look that way. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I think experience is key You still need that senior figure in a way. But moving forward, Renshaw could be one. I think hell slide straight back in there. Hes had a taste of Test cricket. Article Source: IANS

Batting At No. 3 Was Not An Ideal Position For Axar: Bangar

Sending Axar Patel: Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar said promoting Axar Patel to bat at No. 3 in their 51-run defeat in the second T20I to South Africa was not the ideal move, adding that him taking time to find his rhythm also meant that the hosts' top order didnt click in a desired way. In the second T20I, India made a surprising move by promoting Axar, usually a floater in the middle order, to number three. It backfired as Axar struggled to get going and made a run-a-ball 21 before falling to pacer Ottniel Baartman. From India's point of view, they needed a big contribution from their top three batters. Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill, and Suryakumar Yadav's performance is always important when chasing a big total, because they have the chance to play the most balls. But the top three did not click, and South Africa played very well. They used the new ball well. Sending Axar Patel to bat at number three took him a lot of balls to find his rhythm, and it was not an ideal position for him. After that, Ottniel Baartman bowled very straight, with a 'you miss, I hit' style. We saw it in the ODIs too, and he got success again. George Linde came into the middle overs and contained the runs with tight bowling. South Africa will be very happy with how they played. They outplayed India in all three departments, said Bangar on JioStar. The only bright spot for India was left-handed batter Tilak Varma top-scoring with 62, an enterprising knock laced with two fours and five sixes. He plays proper cricketing shots and doesn't fight the pace. In international cricket, he doesn't just try to hit the 135-140 speed balls to mid-wicket. George Linde came into the middle overs and contained the runs with tight bowling. South Africa will be very happy with how they played. They outplayed India in all three departments, said Bangar on JioStar. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Overall, he is the best player in a crunch situation. He gives you the confidence to either reach a good score or complete a chase, added Bangar. Article Source: IANS

Cricket Matches Allowed At Bengaluru's Chinnaswamy Stadium With Safety Measures: Dy CM Shivakumar

The Karnataka State Cricket Academy: Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Friday announced that cricket matches will be allowed at Bengaluru's Chinnaswamy Stadium with safety measures. Speaking to the media at the Circuit House in Belagavi, Shivakumar, who is also Bengaluru Development Minister, said: We've allowed cricket matches to be held at the stadium, taking necessary precautions to ensure safety and maintain Bengaluru's reputation. Home Minister G Parameshwara has been tasked with overseeing the arrangements, and the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) President Venkatesh Prasad and police officials will discuss the details, he added. Shivakumar emphasised that the decision was made to uphold Bengaluru's reputation and prevent any untoward incidents. Sources said that the Karnataka cabinet on Thursday night had approved conducting all upcoming cricket matches, including the 2026 IPL, at the Chinnaswamy Stadium. The decision was made at the cabinet meeting in Belagavi, with the Home Department tasked with implementing the Michael De Cunha report's recommendations and ensuring enhanced security measures. The Karnataka State Cricket Academy (KSCA) will discuss and agree on the necessary steps with the Home Department. A meeting chaired by the Home Minister will finalise the arrangements. The decision follows the suspension of cricket matches at the stadium after 11 fans died in a stampede during an RCB victory celebration in July. The stadium had also lost a women's World Cup match due to security concerns. The stadium has not hosted any matches since the stampede on June 4, in which 11 people were killed. The announcement came after newly-elected KSCA President and former Indian pacer Venkatesh Prasad and other office-bearers met Shivkumar in Belagavi. They had also met the CM and had submitted a request for the resumption of matches. Meanwhile, Shivakumar, asked about the dinner meet he had attended amid rumours that it was organised in response to a dinner meeting organised by CM Siddaramaiah's camp, said that he attends lunch invitations from locals and Congress party family members as a gesture of goodwill. The announcement came after newly-elected KSCA President and former Indian pacer Venkatesh Prasad and other office-bearers met Shivkumar in Belagavi. They had also met the CM and had submitted a request for the resumption of matches. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Shivakumar, who is also the state Congress chief, stated that he and other party members often receive invitations from locals, including Congress party workers and their families. Article Source: IANS

Rest or runs? Hurricanes and Scorchers take contrasting roads to WBBL final

The hosts were the standout side in the regular season but have not played a full game since December 1

Surya And Gill's Form Is A Real Cause Of Concern: Pathan

T20 World Cup: Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan said the lean form of captain Suryakumar Yadav and vice-captain Shubman Gill, especially after another poor show in the 51-run loss in the second T20I, is a real cause of concern ahead of next years T20 World Cup. In the second T20I, Gill was dismissed on his first ball during India's 51-run loss to South Africa in New Chandigarh on Thursday as the Proteas levelled the five-match T20I series at 1-1, while Suryakumar didn't fare much better as he lasted just four deliveries for his five runs. The duo have combined for just 21 runs through the opening two matches of the ongoing T20I series against South Africa. The last time Gill and Suryakumar hit fifties in T20Is, it was more than 12 months ago. At the toss, we said it would not be bad for South Africa to bat first. Because they were chasing in the first match, and here in New Chandigarh, they batted first which meant you did not have the scoreboard pressure and you could bat freely. Quinton de Kock did a great job. But looking at this match, who should be credited? We have two points. One is the form of Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav and Shubman Gill which is a real cause of concern for India. Then there is South Africas bowling, it was a very good bowling performance. And Quinton de Kock is back in form, which is big news for South Africa, said Pathan on JioStar. With Gill enduring a second successive failure in the series and his tally standing at 263 runs from 14 T20Is this year, Pathan felt if the opener was in form, he wouldnt have been out for a golden duck. Shubman Gill will say he got a very good ball and looked stuck at the crease. For captain Suryakumar Yadav, I felt he needs to focus on his offside play. He was completely out of position when he got out. About Gills dismissal, the ball from Lungi Ngidi was top quality. The angle he bowled from was excellent. But if Gill was in form, he would have played that ball easily. He is not in form. Ngidi has bowled only three overs to him so far in the powerplay in this series and got him out twice, giving just four runs. He is putting a lot of pressure on Gill with the new ball. The runs not coming from Gills bat are a bad sign and increase the pressure on him and the team management. They will be asking what to do. He also felt the thought of getting back Sanju Samson, who thrived as an opener before Gill took his position, shouldnt be seen as an instant solution. This situation should not get worse. If the runs still dont come, you cant just bring Sanju Samson back and expect him to perform if he is also rusty. There are many questions. If they go back to Samson, it becomes very important for him to score runs. In 19 T20Is this year, Suryakumar has managed to score just 201 runs at an average of 14.35 across 17 innings, and Pathan has suggested he should consider playing his shots more in the off-side. He also felt the thought of getting back Sanju Samson, who thrived as an opener before Gill took his position, shouldnt be seen as an instant solution. This situation should not get worse. If the runs still dont come, you cant just bring Sanju Samson back and expect him to perform if he is also rusty. There are many questions. If they go back to Samson, it becomes very important for him to score runs. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Surya has shown a pattern of playing straight balls to the leg side and getting out. When you're not scoring, you should try to play in the off-side and in front. He has the skill to bring the ball in front of his eyes and use the pace, that's how he will start scoring again, said Pathan. Article Source: IANS

India Assistant Coach Ten Doeschate Wants Gill To Play T20Is In The Way He Fares In IPL

T20 World Cup: India assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate said he wants Shubman Gill to bring his IPL batting template into the T20I set-up, adding that he believes the right-handed opener and skipper Suryakumar Yadav will come good closer to next years T20 World Cup. In the second T20I, Gill bagged a golden duck, while Suryakumar made just five as India lost to South Africa by 51 runs. The last time Gill and Suryakumar hit fifties in T20Is, it was more than 12 months ago. I think taking on the captaincy, the way he did in England and how well he led and how much pride he took in that performance, I think an element of that carried over into what he wanted to do in the T20 side. So anything he was too caring and maybe a little bit tight and towards the back end of Australia (tour), the talks were around him freeing up a little bit more. You do know trying to relinquish that responsibility certainly in that capacity where you feel like its all about you and you really need to justify your place in the team. We dont want him to do that. We want him to play as freely as he does during IPL seasons, ten Doeschate said to reporters at the conclusion of the game. Asked about Suryakumars prolonged lean run, ten Doeschate said, It's exactly the same with Surya. You mentioned the leadership roles and we are quite far down the road now with our planning and how we have set the team up. If you are going to be India's number three, there is pressure on you to score runs. There has been a fairly long string of form now where he hasn't got the scores we like. But in isolation, we are certainly not worried about it. Batting at three again, the job we want from him is to go out there and attack. Asked about Suryakumars prolonged lean run, ten Doeschate said, It's exactly the same with Surya. You mentioned the leadership roles and we are quite far down the road now with our planning and how we have set the team up. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The five-game T20I series between India and South Africa, currently at 1-1, will now move to Dharamsala for the third game to be played at the HPCA Stadium on Sunday. Article Source: IANS

Roston Chase: 'We try to hold everyone accountable for their actions'

West Indies captain Roston Chase wants to leave New Zealand with their first Test win in the country in 30 years

Satterthwaite, Peterson and Tsukigawa named NZ regional female pathway leads

Amy Satterthwaite is the most experienced of the trio, having represented NZ in 145 ODIs and 111 T20Is, leading the side in 15 of those games

NZ Move To Third In WTC Standings After 9-wicket Win Over WI In Wellington

ICC World Test Championship Final: New Zealand have boosted their prospects of a second appearance in the ICC World Test Championship Final with a comprehensive nine-wicket victory over the West Indies in the second Test in Wellington on Friday. The win earned New Zealand 12 World Test Championship points and allowed the 2021 champions to leapfrog Pakistan and India to join Sri Lanka in third place on the standings. New Zealand now have a win-loss percentage of 66.67, with leaders Australia (100 percent) and second-placed South Africa (75 percent) the only teams ahead of them. New Zealands bowlers did the damage on the third day at the Basin Reserve, with Jacob Duffys five-wicket haul helping the hosts dismiss the West Indies for just 128 in their second innings. That left New Zealand requiring only 56 for victory and a 1-0 series lead. Devon Conway (28 not out) and Kane Williamson (16 not out) guided them home after the early loss of skipper Tom Latham for nine. Speaking about the win, New Zealand skipper Latham said, We sort of got better and better. We probably took a little bit to get up to the game in the morning of day one. Obviously, there was particularly some weary legs, a bit of a hangover from the first Test. But we got better and better. And then obviously in the second innings, I thought we bowled fantastically well and sort of adjusted things a little bit in terms of how we wanted to operate. Speaking about the win, New Zealand skipper Latham said, We sort of got better and better. We probably took a little bit to get up to the game in the morning of day one. Obviously, there was particularly some weary legs, a bit of a hangover from the first Test. But we got better and better. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The third Test between New Zealand and West Indies will commence in Mount Maunganui on December 18. Article Source: IANS

Warner: Head at No. 5 'a worse result' for England

The Australia selectors face a big call over whether to recall Usman Khawaja and, if so, where to bat him

Australia Depth Shows Up England's Ashes 'Failures'

A well-drilled Australia are on the cusp of retaining the Ashes after just six days of cricket -- not bad for a team lambasted by England great Stuart Broad before the series began as its weakest since 2010. The hosts take a 2-0 lead into the third Test at Adelaide on December 17 needing only a draw to keep the famous urn and pile more humiliation on Ben Stokes's tourists. Australia have put themselves on the brink despite missing injured pace spearheads Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, with the performances of stand-ins Michael Neser and Brendan Doggett a reflection of their depth. The great and the healthiest thing for Australian cricket right now is that they've got almost a second XI or an Australia 'A' side that could come in and play some outstanding cricket too, said former Australia Test quick Brett Lee. The guys who have had their opportunity, the Doggetts and the Nesers, have stood up. They've taken their opportunity and taken it with both hands, which is brilliant. The strength of the country's talent pool was driven home by Australia 'A' crushing England's second-tier side by an innings and 127 runs at Allan Border Field while Stokes's men were being thrashed down the road in the second Test at the Gabba. Young prospects Fergus O'Neill, Cooper Connolly and Campbell Kellaway stood out, while discarded Test batsman Nathan McSweeney fired a double-century reminder to selectors. It is a far cry from the pre-Ashes war-of-words where England were hyped as having their best chance in a generation to win a series in Australia, with seamer Broad's comments coming back to haunt him. It's probably the worst Australian team since 2010 when England last won and it's the best English team since 2010, said Broad, who retired in 2023 and is now working as a pundit. It's actually not an opinion, it's fact. At the time, he pointed to questions over the make-up of Australia's batting line-up and a perceived lack of bowling depth. Both have been blown out of the water. - On the go - Australia went into the first Test in Perth dogged by uncertainty, with the uncapped Jake Weatherald as Usman Khawaja's sixth opening partner since David Warner retired nearly two years ago. In a quirk of fate, Khawaja was unable to bat in the first innings because of back spasms with Marnus Labuschagne replacing him. But it was when he pulled out again in the second innings and Travis Head stepped up that the tide turned on England with his stunning 69-ball match-winning century. Ever since Travis Head stuck his hand up to open when Khawaja got hurt in Perth, Australia have looked like a different team, said Australian legend Glenn McGrath. Labuschagne said Head and Weatherald's confidence trickled down to the lower order in Brisbane, where himself, Steve Smith and Alex Carey all blasted quick-fire half centuries. It leaves selectors with a dilemma for the third Test: recall now-fit 85-Test veteran Khawaja or persist with Weatherald and Head, whose home ground is Adelaide. Smith, who stood in for Cummins as skipper in the first two Tests, attributed Australia's success so far to being able to adapt in real time. We play 'live'. We adapt on the go, instead of getting back in the sheds and going, 'We should have done this', he said. Sometimes it's just playing the long game. I think we've just adapted so well the last couple of years, and played in real time, I suppose. For former Australia captain Greg Chappell, Australia's success has been as much about England's failures. While their aggressive Bazball approach might be suited to flat English pitches and small grounds, it has been brutally exposed by the bigger boundaries and demanding conditions in Australia. The failure that has ensued across the first two Tests is a whole-of-system one, a catastrophic breakdown of both the game plan and its execution, he wrote in a column. While the players have been the immediate culprits, the off-field leaders - (coach) Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes - are equally responsible for not recognising the different challenges presented by Test cricket in Australia. Also Read: Live Cricket Score

Jacob Duffy Takes Five As New Zealand Thrash West Indies For 1-0 Test Series Lead

Jacob Duffy took five wickets as New Zealand cruised to a nine-wicket victory over the West Indies in the second Test in Wellington on Friday for a 1-0 series lead. Seamer Duffy took 5-38 from 17.2 overs, his second five-wicket haul in Tests, as the West Indies were rolled for 128 after lunch on day three, the hosts needing just 56 for victory. Devon Conway (28) and Kane Williamson (16) guided New Zealand to the emphatic win just before tea at the Basin Reserve. Debutant Michael Rae took 3-45 while Kavem Hodge was the best of the West Indian batters in their second innings, scoring 35. New Zealand lead the three-Test series 1-0, after the first match in Christchurch ended in a draw. The third Test begins in Mount Maunganui on Thursday. It was a limp batting effort from the West Indies, who resumed day three at 32-2, trailing by 41 runs having lost John Campbell and nightwatchman Anderson Phillip late on day two. At lunch they were on the ropes at 98-6 and needing a significant fightback -- like they did in the first Test -- to have any chance. But it took just 9.2 overs for New Zealand to clean up the tail, the collapse starting when Justin Greaves fell for 25 to an lbw off Duffy that was reviewed by New Zealand and would have clipped the top of leg stump. Earlier in the day Brandon King and Hodge started brightly, negating a pitch that was offering variable bounce to the New Zealand bowlers. King was the first to depart, for 22, after a dreadful mix-up running between the wickets, run out by Michael Bracewell. That sparked a mini-collapse as first Shai Hope and then captain Roston Chase were removed by Rae and Duffy respectively. Hodge patiently moved to 35 as wickets fell at the other end, but he departed after Will Young took a stunning diving catch from a pull shot at midwicket. Also Read: Live Cricket Score

Duffy five-for triggers West Indies slide to give New Zealand first win of WTC cycle

Visitors fold for 128 in their second innings to set hosts a straightforward chase, wrapped up by Conway and Williamson swiftly

MI Emirates Cruise Past Abu Dhabi Knight Riders with Seven-Wicket Win in ILT20 2025

MI Emirates returned to winning ways after securing a seven-wicket win over Abu Dhabi Knight Riders at the Zayed Cricket Stadium on Thursday. The win took the side to third on the points table with four points to their name, having won two of their four matches in the DP World ILT20 Season 4. It was a comprehensive performance with both bat and ball by the MI Emirates, who rode of Fazalhaq Farooqis 4 for 14 and Kamindu Mendis three wickets in the first innings to bowl them out for 122. Chasing a meagre total, Muhammad Waseems quickfire 27 runs off 12 balls, and then Jonny Bairstows unbeaten 49 off 38 balls, including seven fours, was enough to take MI Emirates over the line. Waseem opened the chase in style, smashing three sixes off Khary Pierre in the third over. He looked dangerous, but Ajay Kumar removed him with an edge to the wicketkeeper in the fourth over. Nicholas Pooran (3 off 6) fell soon after, nicking to Brandon McMullen off Jason Holder, but Bairstow took control. He blasted Kumar for four fours in a 17-run over, and Tom Banton (29 off 20) added a 16-run surge off Olly Stone, including two fours and a six. Their onslaught reduced the target to just 34 runs needed from 66 balls by the ninth over. Banton and Bairstows 64-run stand off 43 balls ended when Pierre had Banton caught by George Garton, but it was only a brief pause. Kamindu Mendis (10* off 7) finished the job with a six off Stone, sealing the win in 13.5 overs. Sent in to bat first, Abu Dhabi Knight Riders started aggressively through Phil Salt (17 off 9) and Alex Hales (6 off 8), but the momentum faded quickly. Romario Shepherd removed Salt, Farooqi dismissed Hales, and ADKR slipped to 37/2 by the end of the Powerplay. McMullen (15 off 19) managed a lone six before being stumped, while Alishan Sharafu (38 off 34) tried to keep the innings steady amid the fall of wickets. Mendis tightened the grip further, removing Liam Livingstone (2 off 6). Sherfane Rutherford (7 off 8) showed brief intent with a four off Mendis but edged behind to Pooran in the same over, piling on the pressure. Sunil Narine (26 off 20) then provided a spark, adding a brisk 36-run stand off 22 balls with Sharafu to revive ADKRs hopes. But just as momentum returned, Sharafu fell to Rashid Khan, and skipper Jason Holder (2 off 5) soon departed to Farooqi as well. Narine kept fighting, but another attempted big shot off Zahoor Khan went straight to Mendis. Farooqi then delivered the final blows in the 20th over, removing Khary Pierre (1 off 2) and Ajay Kumar (0 off 2), as MI Emirates bowled out ADKR for 122 in 19.3 overs. MI Emirates skipper Kieron Pollard said, We needed those points.Of course, we didn't expect 122, but restricting them to as little as possible was the aim. I thought the guys rebounded pretty well. Last game, we bowled well, too, but we didn't bat well. Today was a professional effort from everyone. All these things count for nothing if you don't play good cricket on the day. For us, it is about reminding the guys of what's important, which is to play cricket consistently and play well. Abu Dhabi Knight Riders skipper Jason Holder said, We're still trying to figure things out. 122 was never going to be enough, especially once the dew made batting easier. Many of our guys players got starts but didnt carry on, and we never built a partnership. Execution has been our biggest issue weve lacked consistency. We began the tournament well with a big score, but since then we havent adapted to conditions. Cricket fans and sports enthusiasts across India can catch the LIVE action exclusively on &Pictures SD, Zee Cinema HD, Zee Action, Zee Thirai SD, Zee Cinemalu and OTT platform Zee 5. Match Summary MI Emirates beat Abu Dhabi Knight Riders by seven wickets Abu Dhabi Knight Riders 122 in 19.3 overs (Alishan Sharafu 38, Sunil Narine 26, Fazalhaq Farooqi 4 for 14, Kamindu Mendis 3 for 21) MI Emirates 123/3 in 13.5 overs (Jonny Bairstow 49*, Tom Banton 29, Muhammad Waseem 27, Jason Holder 1 for 11, Ajay Kumar 1 for 30) Also Read: Live Cricket Score Player of the match: Kamindu Mendis

BBL preview: Can powerful Hobart Hurricanes go back-to-back?

A team-by-team guide ahead of the new BBL season which will see strong England and Pakistan representation

Smriti Mandhana moves on after cancelling wedding; Palash's alleged fling shares first statement amid trolling

Indian cricketer Smriti Mandhana, after ending her relationship with composer Palash Muchhal, made her first public appearance since the breakup. She said cricket remains her greatest love and the Indian jersey her biggest motivation, helping her set aside personal struggles and stay focused on her life and career.

2nd T20I: When I Do Get Going, I Try To Make It Count, Says De Kock On Match-winning 90

Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket: Wicketkeeper-batter Quinton de Kock, who made a match-winning 90 in South Africas 51-run win over India in the second T20I at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, said he always looks to make it count whenever he finds rhythm. De Kock set the tone for South Africa, posting 213/4 with clean hitting at the top and dazzling shots hit square of the wicket through the leg-side. His 46-ball 90 was laced with five fours and seven sixes, apart from sharing an 83-run stand with Aiden Markram for the second wicket. I dont know whats going on; its just happening. I guess thats the thing, when I do get going, I try to make it count. Thats pretty much what it is, literally. Look, I just think its because we play each other so many times. We always play on good wickets, especially here back home. Thats literally what it boils down to at the end of the day, said de Kock after getting the Player of the Match award. Look, the guy (Arshdeep Singh) got me out plenty of times, that I know for sure. And it always seems to be the same way. So I think it was just a technical thing I needed to be aware of, and after that, it would sort of play out naturally. Thats pretty much all it boils down to, he said. He also went on to highlight the contrasting conditions across the two innings. I think the wicket was a bit slow up front, felt like it took some time to get to the bat. When we were batting, any new batsman would find it a bit harder to come in. The ball didnt feel like it was wet; it still felt dry. So it was just a matter of myself and Aiden (Markram) and me holding on and trying to build a partnership, because it wasnt going to be easy for the next guy walking in. When the Indian team batted, it went the other way. It got two-paced with a bit more pace in it, it quickened up, and everything moved around at pace. When we batted, it moved around quite slowly. So thats really the difference between the conditions in the two innings, he elaborated. Pacer Ottniel Baartman, who finished with four wickets, including three scalps coming in the 19th over, credited the early breakthroughs by Jansen and Ngidi for allowing him to be more attacking later with the ball. Nothing too fancy. I reckon the two frontline seamers set the tone for us up front and just allowed me to come in and do my thing. We acknowledged that there was something in the surface, so it was about keeping the ball on the surface and hopefully getting some purchase off the wicket. Pacer Ottniel Baartman, who finished with four wickets, including three scalps coming in the 19th over, credited the early breakthroughs by Jansen and Ngidi for allowing him to be more attacking later with the ball. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Explaining his approach and the training behind it, Baartman said, The training camps are quick and fast, so you need to be warm all the time. Whenever the captain calls upon you, you have to be ready. When they set the tone the way they did, when you have teams three or four down in the Power-play, its difficult for them to come back from that. That just allows the backup bowlers to do their thing. Article Source: IANS

2nd T20I: De Kock, Baartman Star As South Africa Level Series With 51-run Win Over India (ld)

Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket: Riding on Quinton de Kocks blazing 90 and a 4-24 by Ottniel Baartman, South Africa levelled the five-game series with a resounding 51run win over India in the second T20I at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in New Chandigarh on Thursday. De Kock set the tone for South Africa, posting 213/4 with clean hitting at the top and dazzling shots hit square of the wicket through the leg-side, as his 46-ball 90 was laced with five fours and seven sixes. He also shared a partnership of 83 with skipper Aiden Markram for the second wicket, something which will keep IPL franchises interested in roping him at next weeks auction. India briefly clawed back with scalps, with Varun Chakaravarthy taking two of them. But South Africa regained control in the closing stages, as David Miller (20 not out) and Donovan Ferreira (30 not out) added 53 runs off just 25 balls to push South Africa past 210. In reply, Indias chase faltered early and never recovered from the blows of losing Shubman Gill, Abhishek Sharma, and skipper Suryakumar Yadav. With Axar Patels puzzling promotion to number three failing to pay off, Tilak Varma was the only Indian batter to find rhythm and show some enterprise by scoring 62 off 34 balls. But he lacked support from the other end as wickets tumbled around him, and Varma was the last man to fall as India were bowled out for 162 in 19.1 overs. South Africas bowlers maintained pressure throughout, used their cutters well, and conceded only five extras, including three wides, in tough bowling conditions, where India conceded a whopping 15 extras seven of which came from Arshdeep Singh. Apart from Baartman, Marco Jansen, Lungi Ngidi, and Lutho Sipamla took two wickets each. Inserted into batting first, de Kock gave South Africa a flying start by carting an erring Arshdeep for two sixes and a four in the third over. De Kock and Reeza Hendricks feasted on the short ball by getting a pulled six each off Jasprit Bumrah in the fourth over. India turned to spin in the fifth over, and Chakravarthy got the first breakthrough by castling Hendricks with a quicker delivery that skidded through the pitch. The dismissal extended Chakravarthys dominance over Hendricks, with him having removed the batter three times in just seven balls in T20Is. Despite that, South Africa maintained momentum as de Kock targeted Axar Patel in the sixth over - pulling him for a towering six, before punching and glancing off Hardik Pandya and Chakaravarthy for a brace of boundaries. While Markram was yet to find fluency, de Kock reached his half-century off 26 balls with a leg-side whip off a full toss from Pandya, before dancing down the pitch to thump Axar for a maximum and launching an off-colour Arshdeep, who gave a staggering seven wides in an 18-run 11th over, down the ground for another six. It felt Markram had found his groove by smacking Chakaravarthy over long-on for consecutive sixes. But attempting to hit another six, Markram holed out to deep mid-wicket, giving Chakaravarthy his second scalp. De Kock continued to dazzle by smashing Pandya for boundaries before an attempt to dab into the off side ended in his dismissal as wicketkeeper Jitesh Sharma moved sharply to his left, parried the ball between gloves, and broke the stumps. One brought two for India as Axar cramped Dewald Brevis for room, and the top-edge on pull was caught by longon sprinting in to complete a diving low catch. With conditions being tough for bowlers, Miller and Ferreira hit six boundaries between themselves in the last three overs to lift South Africa past the 210-run mark. Indias chase began in disarray as Gill was undone by a terrific delivery from Ngidi that straightened off a good length, squaring him up and finding the edge to slip, as he fell for a golden duck. Abhishek, who had already cleared the boundary ropes twice, was completely squared up as Jansen got one to straighten over the middle stump to draw an outside edge to the keeper and dismiss him for 17. Axar walked in at number three, but soon saw Suryakumar depart as he went after a back-of-a-length ball from Jansen and edged behind to de Kock. Varma offered some resistance by hitting three boundaries, with a whipped six off Sipamla being the standout. But South Africa continued to chip away as Axars attempt to break free ended in chipping a drive to give cover a low catch off Baartman. Varma brought out the pull and switch hit to collect sixes, before bringing up his fifth T20I fifty in 27 balls by slog-sweeping Ngidi for another maximum. But South Africa continued to chip away as a struggling Pandya holed out to deep mid-wicket off Sipamla, just a ball after being dropped by long-on. Despite more lofty hits coming from the willows of Varma and Jitesh Sharma, who smashed 27 off 17 balls, the result was a foregone conclusion in South Africas favour as the visitors secured a superb series-levelling win. Varma brought out the pull and switch hit to collect sixes, before bringing up his fifth T20I fifty in 27 balls by slog-sweeping Ngidi for another maximum. But South Africa continued to chip away as a struggling Pandya holed out to deep mid-wicket off Sipamla, just a ball after being dropped by long-on. Also Read: Live Cricket Score South Africa 213/4 in 20 overs (Quinton de Kock 90, Donovan Ferreira 30 not out; Varun Chakaravarthy 2-29, Axar Patel 1-27) beat India 162 all out in 19.1 overs (Tilak Varma 62, Jitesh Sharma 27; Ottniel Baartman 4-24, Marco Jansen 2-25) by 51 runs Article Source: IANS

2nd T20I: Baartman Picks 4-24 As South Africa Level Series With 51-run Win Over India

Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket: Riding on Quinton de Kocks blazing 90 and Ottniel Baartmans figures of 4-24, South Africa levelled the five-game series with a resounding 51run win over India in the second T20I at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in New Chandigarh on Thursday. De Kock set the tone for South Africa, posting 213 with clean hitting at the top, as his 46-ball 90 was laced with five fours and seven sixes. In reply, Indias chase faltered early and never recovered from the blows of losing Shubman Gill, Abhishek Sharma, and skipper Suryakumar Yadav. With Axar Patels puzzling promotion to No.3 failing to pay off, Tilak Varma was the only Indian batter to find rhythm and show some enterprise by scoring 62 off 34 balls. But he lacked support from the other end as wickets tumbled around him, and Varma was the last man to fall as India were bowled out for 162 in 19.1 overs. South Africas bowlers maintained pressure throughout and conceded only five extras, including three wides, in tough bowling conditions, where India conceded a whopping 15 extras. Apart from Baartman, Marco Jansen, Lungi Ngidi, and Lutho Sipamla took two wickets each. Indias chase began in disarray as Gill was undone by a terrific delivery from Ngidi that straightened off a good length, squaring him up and finding the edge to slip, as he fell for a golden duck. Abhishek, who had already cleared the boundary ropes twice, was completely squared up as Jansen got one to straighten over the middle stump to draw an outside edge to the keeper and dismiss him for 17. Axar walked in at number three, but soon saw Suryakumar depart as he went after a back-of-a-length ball from Jansen and edged behind to Quinton de Kock. Varma offered some resistance by hitting three boundaries, with a whipped six off Sipamla being the standout. But South Africa continued to chip away as Axars attempt to break free ended in chipping a drive to give cover a low catch off Baartman. Varma brought out the pull and switch hit to collect sixes, before bringing up his fifth T20I fifty in 27 balls by slog-sweeping Ngidi for another maximum. But South Africa continued to chip away as a struggling Hardik Pandya holed out to deep mid-wicket off Sipamla, just a ball after being dropped by long-on. Despite more lofty hits coming from the willows of Varma and Jitesh Sharma, who smashed 27 off 17 balls, the result was a foregone conclusion in South Africas favour as the visitors secured a superb series-levelling win. Varma brought out the pull and switch hit to collect sixes, before bringing up his fifth T20I fifty in 27 balls by slog-sweeping Ngidi for another maximum. But South Africa continued to chip away as a struggling Hardik Pandya holed out to deep mid-wicket off Sipamla, just a ball after being dropped by long-on. Also Read: Live Cricket Score South Africa 213/4 in 20 overs (Quinton de Kock 90, Donovan Ferreira 30 not out; Varun Chakaravarthy 2-29, Axar Patel 1-27) beat India 162 all out in 19.1 overs (Tilak Varma 62, Jitesh Sharma 27; Ottniel Baartman 4-24, Marco Jansen 2-25) by 51 runs Article Source: IANS

2nd T20I: This Is A Special Moment For Me, Says Harmanpreet On Stand Naming Honour

Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket: India womens captain Harmanpreet Kaur described the naming of a stand in her honour ahead of the second T20I at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium as a special moment, adding that all her hard work and struggle paid off to see this day. On Thursday, before the start of the match, Harmanpreet and former India mens all-rounder Yuvraj Singh were honoured with stands named after them. The ceremony saw both players being joined by their family members, India players Amanjot Kaur, Harleen Deol, BCCI President Mithun Manhas, and Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. After winning the World Cup, a lot of things have changed in my life. But I think this is a special moment for me. The soil on which I started playing, today I will finally have a stand on my name. So I think it's a very proud moment for me and I really want to thank the Punjab Cricket Association for that, said Harmanpreet, who captained India to the Womens ODI World Cup win in November, in a video posted by the BCCI on their social media accounts. All the hard work, all the struggle has paid off today. So I think it is a very emotional moment for me. But as well, whoever is going to watch this video, whoever is listening, I think it is going to be very motivational for all of them, she said. Yuvraj, who retired from international cricket in 2019, was instrumental in Indias triumph in the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007. His finest time came in the 2011 ODI World Cup -- scoring 362 runs and taking 15 wickets to be named Player of the Series in Indias victorious campaign. All the hard work, all the struggle has paid off today. So I think it is a very emotional moment for me. But as well, whoever is going to watch this video, whoever is listening, I think it is going to be very motivational for all of them, she said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Yuvraj Singh, who played 40 Tests, 304 ODIs, and 58 T20Is for India, expressed gratitude for a stand being named after him. That's a huge honour. I think it's been a lot of years playing for India and Punjab. So it's a special ground for me as a coach and a mentor, and thank you to the BCCI, PCA for giving me their support and giving me that huge honour. Article Source: IANS

2nd T20I: Quinton De Kock's Dazzling 90 Takes South Africa To 213/4

Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket: Powered by opener Quinton de Kocks blistering 90 off 46 balls, South Africa posted a competitive 213/4 in their 20 overs in the second T20I match against India at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium here on Thursday. The left-handed opener set the tone with some clean hitting and dazzling shots square of the wicket through the leg-side to strike five fours and seven sixes, apart from sharing a partnership of 83 with Aiden Markram for the second wicket. India briefly clawed back with scalps, but South Africa regained control in the closing stages, as David Miller (20 not out) and Donovan Ferreira (30 not out) added 53 runs off just 25 balls to push South Africa past 210. Indias pacers struggled under heavy dew, with Arshdeep Singh conceding nine wides and Jasprit Bumrah missing his yorkers. Varun Chakravarthy was the standout bowler, with 2-29, while Axar Patel found grip late to finish with 1-27. India now face a stiff chase, though the dew could tilt conditions in their favour. Inserted into batting first, de Kock gave South Africa a flying start by carting an erring Arshdeep Singh for two sixes and a four in the third over. De Kock and Reeza Hendricks feasted on the short ball by getting a pulled six each off Jasprit Bumrah in the fourth over. India turned to spin in the fifth over, and Varun Chakravarthy got the first breakthrough by castling Hendricks with a quicker delivery that skidded through the pitch. The dismissal extended Chakravarthys dominance over Hendricks, with him having removed the batter three times in just seven balls in T20Is. Despite that, South Africa maintained momentum as de Kock targeted Axar Patel in the sixth over -- pulling him for a towering six, before punching and glancing off Hardik Pandya and Chakaravarthy for a brace of boundaries. While skipper Aiden Markram was yet to find fluency in the innings, de Kock reached his half-century off 26 balls with a leg-side whip off a full toss from Pandya, before dancing down the pitch to thump Axar for a maximum and launching an off-colour Arshdeep, who gave a staggering seven wides in an 18-run 11th over, down the ground for another six. It felt Markram had found his groove by smacking Chakaravarthy over long-on for consecutive sixes. But attempting to hit another six, Markram holed out to deep mid-wicket, giving Chakaravarthy his second scalp. De Kock continued to dazzle by smashing Hardik Pandya for boundaries before an attempt to dab into the off-side ended in his dismissal on 90 as wicketkeeper Jitesh Sharma moved sharply to his left, parried the ball between gloves, and broke the stumps. One brought two for India as Axar cramped Dewald Brevis for room, and the top-edge on pull was caught by longon sprinting in to complete a diving low catch. With conditions being tough for bowlers, David Miller and Donovan Ferreira hit six boundaries between themselves in the last three overs to lift South Africa past the 210-run mark. De Kock continued to dazzle by smashing Hardik Pandya for boundaries before an attempt to dab into the off-side ended in his dismissal on 90 as wicketkeeper Jitesh Sharma moved sharply to his left, parried the ball between gloves, and broke the stumps. Also Read: Live Cricket Score South Africa 213/4 in 20 overs (Quinton de Kock 90, Donovan Ferreira 30 not out; Varun Chakaravarthy 2-29, Axar Patel 1-27) against India Article Source: IANS

Harmanpreet Kaur, Yuvraj Singh stands inaugurated at New Chandigarh Stadium

The stands were inaugurated before the start of the second men's T20I between India and South Africa at the venue

2nd T20I: Would Call Myself A Leg Spinner As I Bowl More Leggies, Says Chakaravarthy

Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket: Ahead of the second T20I against South Africa, India spinner Varun Chakaravarthy said he would describe himself as a leg-spinner rather than being called an off-spinner or mystery spinner due to him bowling more leg-breaks of late. I would call myself a leg spinner, but because I'm bowling, I've started bowling more leggies nowadays, so leg spinner. But I'm more of a carrom ball bowler and off spinner as well, said Chakaravarthy in a pre-game chat with the broadcasters at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium. In 30 T20Is, Chakaravarthy has picked 47 wickets and established himself as a first-choice spinner in the set-up since October 2024. He spoke about the preparations from his end for the matches. Definitely, there's a lot of planning behind the scenes. I do sit with my video analyst and see what's happening and the latest match, what the opponents have played in the last five to six matches, what new shots they are trying to play, and just try to keep up on updates on all those things. In 30 T20Is, Chakaravarthy has picked 47 wickets and established himself as a first-choice spinner in the set-up since October 2024. He spoke about the preparations from his end for the matches. Also Read: Live Cricket Score He signed off by saying that playing domestic cricket helps him improve upon any shortcomings in his bowling. The best thing where I can work is the domestic where the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy happens, and it's extremely competitive, and I definitely find it very tough to bowl there also. So playing such matches gives me more confidence in how to tackle the international-level players. So that's the thing - play more matches. Article Source: IANS

Chargesheet Filed Against Bangladesh A Cricketer Tofael Ahmed Raihan In Sexual Assault Case

Children Repression Prevention Act: Police have filed a chargesheet against Bangladesh A teams pace-bowling all-rounder Tofael Ahmed Raihan, accusing him of repeatedly sexually assaulting a young woman after allegedly promising to marry her. The chargesheet has been filed under Section 9(1) of the Women and Children Repression Prevention Act, sub-inspector Md Samiul Islam of Gulshan Police Station confirmed to Cricbuzz on Thursday. According to investigators, the allegations appear to be supported by the womans statement, hotel booking records, medical reports, and other evidence collected during the inquiry. The court is expected to review the charge sheet at the next hearing on December 30, the report suggested. Based on the case documents, Tofael initially reached out to the woman on Facebook in January. Their Messenger chats slowly evolved into what the woman perceived as a romantic relationship. She told police she agreed to keep talking with him only after he promised marriage. The woman claimed that on January 31, Tofael took her to a hotel in Gulshan, introduced her as his wife, and then sexually assaulted her. She stated that similar episodes happened several more times, and that he ultimately refused to marry her despite promising to do so repeatedly. She filed a case at Gulshan Police Station on August 1, accusing him of multiple acts of sexual violence. On September 24, the High Court granted Tofael six weeks of anticipatory bail and instructed him to surrender to the Women and Children Repression Prevention Tribunal upon the expiry of the bail period. However, police say he did not follow this directive. The woman claimed that on January 31, Tofael took her to a hotel in Gulshan, introduced her as his wife, and then sexually assaulted her. She stated that similar episodes happened several more times, and that he ultimately refused to marry her despite promising to do so repeatedly. She filed a case at Gulshan Police Station on August 1, accusing him of multiple acts of sexual violence. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The case now awaits the courts next steps as the legal process progresses. Article Source: IANS

2nd T20I: Unchanged India Elect To Bowl First; South Africa Bring In Reeza, Baartman And Linde

Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket: An unchanged India have won the toss and elected to bowl first against South Africa in the second T20I at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in New Chandigarh on Thursday. The stadium is hosting its first mens international cricket match and becomes the 55th venue in India to join this bandwagon. India are currently leading the five-game series 1-0, and a win on Thursday will help them make it 2-0. This has always been a wonderful ground. When we played here during franchise cricket, and recently saw a womens game also happen here, it was wonderful, and it's the first mens game, I heard, that's happening here -- international, so very excited for it. Im sure the crowd are also excited. Its really important for the boys to understand their responsibilities and see what the team demands in that situation. They batted perfectly, looking at the situation. 175 on that wicket was a little over par. The way we bowled, I think it was a lovely effort, said India skipper Suryakumar Yadav. He also heaped praise on seam bowling all-rounder Hardik Pandyas match-winning efforts in the first T20I in Cuttack. The balance that he (Hardik Pandya) provides in the team is amazing. The way he batted, the way he keeps calm on the ground when hes batting, when its a pressure situation. The way he bowled also, I think thats more important. His overs are also really important for the side. The way he carried himself throughout the game, it didnt look like he was injured, added Suryakumar. South Africa captain Aiden Markram said Tristan Stubbs, Keshav Maharaj, and Anrich Nortje have been replaced by Reeza Hendricks, Ottniel Baartman, and George Linde in the Proteas playing eleven. We would have fielded. Looks like a good wicket. Not a lot of international games here, but I hope to get a good score and put them under pressure. We have to make peace with the fact that we can have nights like the first game, and hope to make a better effort today. We'll get feedback on scores after a few overs, not thought of it now, he said. Playing XIs: We would have fielded. Looks like a good wicket. Not a lot of international games here, but I hope to get a good score and put them under pressure. We have to make peace with the fact that we can have nights like the first game, and hope to make a better effort today. We'll get feedback on scores after a few overs, not thought of it now, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score South Africa: Reeza Hendricks, Quinton de Kock (wk), Aiden Markram (capt), Dewald Brevis, David Miller, Donovan Ferreira, George Linde, Marco Jansen, Lutho Sipamla, Lungi Ngidi, and Ottneil Baartman Article Source: IANS

Stands Named After Harmanpreet Kaur And Yuvraj Singh Inaugurated Ahead Of Second Mens T20I

Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket: Stands named after India womens captain Harmanpreet Kaur and former mens all-rounder Yuvraj Singh were inaugurated ahead of the second mens T20I against South Africa at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium on Thursday. Siddhant Sharma, the officiating Secretary of Punjab Cricket Association (PCA), had previously told IANS about honouring Harmanpreet and Yuvraj by naming stands after them, with the duo to be in attendance at the venue. The inauguration on Thursday was led by Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and PCA President Amarjit Mehta, with BCCI President Mithun Manhas and Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria in attendance as well. Last month, Harmanpreet created history by leading India to its first senior ICC trophy in womens cricket by lifting the ODI World Cup title at the D.Y. Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. Yuvraj, meanwhile, played a pivotal role in Indias twin World Cup triumphs -- the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007 and the ODI World Cup in 2011. He had cemented his legacy as one of the games great match-winners in white-ball cricket. Yuvraj also joined the Indian team huddle ahead of the second T20I and offered words of wisdom to the Suryakumar Yadav-led side. Harmanpreet has become the third Indian womens cricketer to have a stand named after her. Previously, legendary players like Jhulan Goswami (Eden Gardens, Kolkata) and Mithali Raj (ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium, Visakhapatnam) were bestowed with this honour. In the presence of Mann and other PCA office bearers, cash rewards of Rs 11 lakh for Harmanpreet, Amanjot Kaur, and Harleen Deol were also handed out, while the fielding coach of the World Cup-winning team, Munish Bali, was given a reward of Rs 5 lakh. Harmanpreet has become the third Indian womens cricketer to have a stand named after her. Previously, legendary players like Jhulan Goswami (Eden Gardens, Kolkata) and Mithali Raj (ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium, Visakhapatnam) were bestowed with this honour. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Adding more sparks to the second T20I will be the presence of three Punjab players in vice-captain Shubman Gill, opener Abhishek Sharma, and fast bowler Arshdeep Singh in Indias playing eleven. Article Source: IANS

2026 Mens T20 WC Group Stage And Super Eight Tickets To Be On Sale From Wednesday Evening

The International Cricket Council: Tickets for the Group Stage and Super Eight of the 2026 ICC Mens T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka will be put on sale at 6:45 pm from Thursday evening. The tenth edition of the mega event will be held from February 7 to March 8, with matches spread across eight venues in India and Sri Lanka. The International Cricket Council (ICC) said prices for the tickets in phase one will start at Rs 100 at some venues in India and 1000 LKR in Sri Lanka. The Rs 100 strategy was first put into use during the 2025 Womens ODI World Cup, also hosted by India and Sri Lanka. Phase I of ticket sales is an important milestone in our journey towards delivering the most accessible and global ICC event ever staged. Our vision for the ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026 is clear: every fan, regardless of background, geography, or financial means, should have the chance to access an in-stadia experience of world-class marquee cricket. With tickets starting from just 100 and LKR1000, we are putting affordability at the centre of our strategy. This is about opening the gates wide and inviting millions to be part of a global celebration of cricket, not as spectators from afar, but as active participants in the energy, emotion, and magic that only a stadium can offer. The 2026 edition, featuring 20 teams and 55 matches, will be the most ambitious and inclusive T20 World Cup in history. We firmly believe it will set a new benchmark not only for competitive excellence but for fan experience and access. Our commitment is to bring the world closer to the game and to ensure this becomes a tournament remembered for both its cricketing brilliance and its connection with the fans we serve, said ICC CEO Sanjog Gupta. The tournament will open in Colombo with Pakistan facing the Netherlands, followed by West Indies taking on Bangladesh in Kolkata, before India take on the USA in a high-profile clash in Mumbai. India enters the competition as the defending champions and will be aiming to retain the silverware won in 2024. With tickets starting as low as 100, the excitement around the ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026 is multiplied manifold. We are committed to creating a world-class match-day experience that reflects Indias passion for the sport, modern facilities, smooth logistics, and stadiums buzzing with energy. This tournament is an opportunity for fans to come together and celebrate cricket in its most electrifying format. We have worked closely with all stakeholders to ensure accessibility, comfort, and an atmosphere worthy of a global event. We warmly welcome fans from across India and around the globe to witness thrilling action and create lifelong memories, said BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia. While the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi, Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, Eden Gardens in Kolkata are the venues in India, R. Premadasa Stadium and Singhalese Sports Club Ground in Colombo, and the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy are the tournament venues in Sri Lanka. This tournament is an opportunity for fans to come together and celebrate cricket in its most electrifying format. We have worked closely with all stakeholders to ensure accessibility, comfort, and an atmosphere worthy of a global event. We warmly welcome fans from across India and around the globe to witness thrilling action and create lifelong memories, said BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia. Also Read: Live Cricket Score We look forward to seeing our venues come alive with passion and energy as fans celebrate cricket in its most electrifying format. This World Cup will not only showcase top-tier competition but will also reaffirm Sri Lankas reputation as a warm, vibrant, and unforgettable cricketing destination, said Ashley de Silva, SLC CEO. Article Source: IANS

Why Fix What Is Not Broken, Says Aakash Chopra On MI Follows Their philosophy And Ideology At WPL Auction

The Mumbai Indians: Aakash Chopra shared his opinion on the Mumbai Indians strategy for the recent auction for the Womens Premier League (WPL), stating that the franchise remained firm in its ideology and philosophy and tried its best to retain its core, without trying to fix what is not broken. The WPL 2026 auction reaffirmed the Mumbai Indians belief in stability over sweeping overhaul, as the defending champions walked away with a squad that looks strikingly similar to last seasons title-winning unit. Rather than chasing dramatic restructuring, MI focused on retaining its trusted core and making precise, need-based additions, an approach that drew praise from JioHotstars panel of experts. Former India captain Mithali Raj underlined the franchises clarity in bolstering its bowling unit while preserving the foundation that has served it so well. The Mumbai Indians have done well in their bowling department. They have brought in top-quality seamers like Nikola Carey and Milly Illingworth, Raj said, speaking on JioHotstar. She also highlighted MIs enviable player availability record, stating, Their other main players may not have a direct replacement. But as we witnessed in the last three seasons, their main players have not missed any matches. Maybe they were rested when the team was in a good position, but they have not missed games due to injury. Hopefully, the next seasons will be the same for MI. Aakash Chopra echoed the sentiment, pointing out that MIs minimal tinkering is deliberate rather than conservative. The Mumbai Indians have kept almost everything the same. Only one keeper has changed. They played with Yastika Bhatia for three years. Now Gunalan Kamalini or someone else will come in her place. That is the only thing to look at. The rest is pretty much the same, he said. According to him, the franchises long-standing philosophy remains intact. They are still following their philosophy, even after the big auction. Why fix what is not broken? And if something is broken, then we will fix it again. They follow that philosophy and ideology, and it is right in front of us, he noted. Chopra added that managing continuity after a mega auction is an accomplishment in itself. It is very difficult to keep the same squad after a mega auction. After a big auction, you cannot always keep your main players. Winning makes the next auction the most difficult, because you do not want to change anything, but change is almost mandatory. Despite that, if you can keep your eleven players from last year, or your core, and no main player is missing, that is a huge achievement. It is almost impossible. But the Mumbai Indians have proved that nothing is impossible. Their squad is exactly the same as last year, with only minor changes. MI are certainly moving in the right direction to win their third WPL title, he explained. Saba Karim, too, emphasised that MIs disciplined approach came from knowing exactly whom they needed and why, stating that once those priorities were secured, MI shifted to supplementary talent. Despite that, if you can keep your eleven players from last year, or your core, and no main player is missing, that is a huge achievement. It is almost impossible. But the Mumbai Indians have proved that nothing is impossible. Their squad is exactly the same as last year, with only minor changes. MI are certainly moving in the right direction to win their third WPL title, he explained. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With their proven match-winners retained, their core untouched, and targeted reinforcements in place, the Mumbai Indians appear poised for another formidable title push. If continuity breeds success, MI may once again be setting the blueprint for building and sustaining a WPL dynasty. Article Source: IANS

Kohli And Pant To Join Delhi Team For Vijay Hazare Trophy As Probables List Announced

CAC Chairman Vijay Dahiya: Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant will be joining the Delhi team for the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy, as the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) announced the list of probable players for the domestic one-day competition. The availability of Kohli, which was confirmed earlier this month, and Pant is expected to lend considerable depth and experience to Delhis batting order, especially with the BCCI making a rule that contracted India players have to feature in domestic cricket when international commitments are not on. The Delhi team will play its first two Elite Group D games against Andhra and Gujarat at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, which serves as Kohli's home ground for his IPL team, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). The side is also scheduled to play the remaining five games at the Alur Cricket Ground, on the outskirts of Bengaluru. Kohli will come on the back of being Player of the Series in the 2-1 win over South Africa in the ODI series, while Pant will be itching to get some game time after being an unused player in the recent 50-over fixtures against the Proteas. The duo will be available till Indias ODI series against New Zealand happens from January 11-17, 2026. The Delhi team will play its first two Elite Group D games against Andhra and Gujarat at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, which serves as Kohli's home ground for his IPL team, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). The side is also scheduled to play the remaining five games at the Alur Cricket Ground, on the outskirts of Bengaluru. Also Read: Live Cricket Score A further list of 50 probable players has also been released. They are:- Dev Lakra, Divij Mehra, Yugal Saini, Sujal Singh, Rajneesh Dadar, Aman Bharti, Govind Mittal, Sumit Beniwal, Shubham Dubey, Keshav Dabas, Rahul Choudhary, Samarth Seth, Shivam Tripathi, Anmol Sharma, Shivam Gupta, Lakshay Thareja, Manan Bhardwaj, Rounak Waghela, Mayank Gussain, Keshav R Singh, Laxman, Divansh Rawat, Pranav Rajvanshi, Pranshu Vijayran, Siddhant Sharma, Gagan Vats, Vansh Bedi, Rahul Gahlot, Vishal Rai, Samarth Singh, Sanat Sangwan, Aayush Singh, Sumit Mathur, Sampooran Tripathi, Vivek Tiwari, Hrithik Shokeen, Tejas Baroka, Saksham Sharma, Dev Dubey, Shivam Sharma, Rohit Yadav, Anirudh Choudhary, Vishant Bhati, Pranav Pant, Pankaj Jaswal, Ajay Guliya, Siddhant Bansal, Vikas Solanki, Divij Prakash and Suryakant Chauhan Article Source: IANS

Mooney, King book Perth Scorchers' spot in WBBL final

Sydney Sixers started 184 chase promisingly in the Challenger, but fell 11 short in the end

Nick Browne named as Essex women's batting coach in club overhaul

Former opening bat takes first step into coaching following retirement this summer

Ticket sales announced for 2026 T20 World Cup

Prices in phase one of the ticket sales start at INR 100 and LKR 1000

Malaysia U19 Skipper Patro Keen To Take On Powerhouses India And Pakistan

The Malaysia Cricket Association: Malaysia captain Deaaz Patro isn't losing sleep over the prospect of facing powerhouses India and Pakistan in the upcoming Mens U19 Asia Cup, which starts in the UAE on Friday. His strategy is simple: block out the noise, focus on the contest, and take it one ball at a time. We agree that India and Pakistan are both very big teams in the cricketing world. But when we enter the field, we focus on the bowler and batsman. We just try to focus on one ball at a time instead of thinking about the result, Patro said in an exclusive conversation with IANS, facilitated by Sony Sports Network, ahead of Malaysia's fifth U19 Asia Cup appearance. Following their clash against Pakistan on Friday, Malaysia will face the UAE on December 14, before taking on a formidable India on December 16. For Patro and vice-captain Muhammad Aalif, the tournament represents both a significant challenge and an important opportunity following their team's third-place finish in the ACC U19 Men's Premier Cup 2025 a result that secured their spot in the Asia Cup. So after we got back, we had four days of training. So, every day, just training and getting prepared for this tournament. As a batsman, I've been practising more on the batting while our bowlers are working on their bowling. So I think it's all equally prioritised, said Patro. Vice-captain Aalif echoed the pragmatic approach when discussing the team's objectives for the Asia Cup. I think we want to give our best. We want to win, of course. I think we'll learn a lot by playing against these big countries. We'll learn their routines, their mentality, and it'll be good for us, he said. But Malaysia arent coming just to participate, if one goes by Patro and Aalif spelling out their ambitious personal targets. For me, I'm looking to get into the playoffs stage and score around 300 to 400 runs in this competition. For Malaysia, this will be a good exposure for us since it's very rare for us to be playing against such high-level countries. But that doesn't mean we are not going to give our best. We are still going to come and do our best for the country. I think our team is very ready to take up the challenge, said Patro. Aalif's vision is also equally high. For me personally, I would like to be in the top three best batsmen and this is my target for this Asia Cup. The Malaysia Cricket Association has been with us since we were young. They've been giving us a lot of opportunities to play cricket in Malaysia - such as the Malaysia Premier League, and playing with the men's senior team, he said. The confidence isn't unfounded, as demonstrated by the teams chemistry built over years of playing together. We had psychology sessions with our psychologist and team bonding sessions, which helped us know each other better, and to improve our communication. Actually, our team has been together since the under-12s. Most of us have been playing together since under-16. So I would say we are very well gelled, said Patro. That cohesion has been further strengthened through focused preparation. Most of the time, we've been staying here in Bayuemas for a camp to prepare for the Asia Cup. Then, from the coaches and staff, they've been giving us a lot of support, giving us motivation and continuing to play very well on a higher level of cricket, said Aalif. He further elaborated on the comprehensive training regime. To be honest, every morning before we start our practice session, we do high-intensity fitness, which is we do a bit of leg training and then some quick running between the wickets, said Aalif. Patro also expressed similar views. The weather over here is quite similar. It's also very hot. So we are quite used to playing in hotter weather. As Aalif said, every morning before training, we have fitness sessions like sprinting, then endurance and agility training. Aalifs technical preparation has been equally meticulous. For me, as a batsman, I'll be focusing on facing spinners on the ground. So I've been doing quite a lot of training against the spinners, with coaches and then alongside the batting coach. Both players carry inspiration from cricket's biggest stars. Patro models his game after Australian dasher David Warner. Since I was young, I used to love watching him, how he bats aggressively in the power play and being able to do so well in all three formats. So I've always looked up to him, the captain said. Aalif, unsurprisingly, looks to India's modern batting great, Virat Kohli. Everyone knows that Virat Kohli is the biggest star in cricket. I love him because of his style, action, and aggression on the field. On and off, he's a good guy, he shared. Their journeys to this moment reflect Malaysian cricket's grassroots development. Patro's path began early, shaped by family influence. For me, actually, my dad was a big fan of cricket. So when I was just 4 years old, he put me into a cricketing club over here. When I was 10 years old, I started playing for our state under-16 team. Then, after the COVID-19 pandemic and the lockdown, I really started to put in more effort. I got the opportunity to play for Malaysia for the first time in 2023. Then, after that, I just kept working hard, and now I'm captain of Malaysia under-16 and Malaysia under-19, he recalled. Aalif's introduction to cricket was purely accidental. I never knew there was a sport named cricket. But at my primary school, there was a teacher who coached the cricket team. So asked me, Do you want to play for the cricket team in my school? I just went, and day by day I've loved playing this sport. So now, I'm here. Then, after the COVID-19 pandemic and the lockdown, I really started to put in more effort. I got the opportunity to play for Malaysia for the first time in 2023. Then, after that, I just kept working hard, and now I'm captain of Malaysia under-16 and Malaysia under-19, he recalled. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Watch the ACC Mens U19 Asia Cup 2025 live on Sony Sports Network from December 12-21 across Sony Sports Ten 1 and Ten 2 SD & HD channels, and will be livestreamed on Sony Liv Article Source: IANS

Jofra Embarrassed Himself And His Team: Ponting Reacts To Archer-Smith Clash During Gabba Test

Gabba Test: Former Australia skipper Ricky Ponting, reacting to the verbal clash between Jofra Archer and Australian captain Steve Smith during the second Ashes Test, said the England pacer embarrassed himself by failing to deliver the pace and aggression when it was most needed earlier in the match. Engaged in a fiery exchange on Day 4 of the day-night Test, when Archer fired down a searing short ball to Smith, which dispatched it to the boundary with an impressive pull shot. The next delivery was again short, and Smith attempted to lift it over the slip cordon, sparking a reaction from Archer, who directed a few verbal barbs at the Aussie skipper. Archer was picked up on the stump mic, saying, Likes to play shots when theres not much on the scoreboard. It lit a fuse under Smith who returned serve, the stump microphone picking up the exchange. You bowl fast when theres nothing going on champion, Smith said. Ponting, who was in the commentary box during the match, opined that Archer had embarrassed himself and the team. When I championed him, I could actually hear what Steve Smith had said to him in the stump mic. Smithy said champion, and then that's just what came out of my mouth, but it just got me going and got the hairs on the back of my neck standing up. There havent been many games that Ive commentated that I wish I was back playing again. But I wish I was out there the other night as part of that, because thats what you miss and thats what its all about, Ponting told SEN. But look, for Jofra, he just embarrassed himself, and he embarrassed his team the other night, that's what I make of that. To bowl his fastest spell ever in Test cricket, when Australia's chasing 60 it (the fast spell) has been there the whole time, its been up his sleeve, and England have needed him to do it, and he hasnt been willing to do it. When I championed him, I could actually hear what Steve Smith had said to him in the stump mic. Smithy said champion, and then that's just what came out of my mouth, but it just got me going and got the hairs on the back of my neck standing up. There havent been many games that Ive commentated that I wish I was back playing again. But I wish I was out there the other night as part of that, because thats what you miss and thats what its all about, Ponting told SEN. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Theyre just going to rock up and Australias going to fall over and well bowl them out. Well, that doesn't happen against Australia, it doesn't happen in Ashes cricket, he added. Article Source: IANS

Scotland Announce Kathryn Bryce-led Squad For Womens T20 WC Qualifier

T20 World Cup Qualifier: Scotland have announced their womens team for the upcoming ICC Womens T20 World Cup Qualifier in Nepal. The fifteen-player squad is headed by Kathryn Bryce. Pippa Sproul has also been named in the squad that participated in the ICC Emerging Nations Trophy in Thailand last month. The Qualifier runs from January 12 to February 2, with 10 teams, including Scotland, competing for four spots in the 2026 ICC Womens T20 World Cup in England next summer. Craig Wallace, head coach of the Scottish womens team, said, We have a really exciting opportunity ahead of us going into Nepal, with an opportunity to qualify for another World Cup. We know how hard qualifying tournaments are, and the Emerging Nations Trophy showed us how tough associate cricket is, so we just need to take it one game at a time and play how we know we can. Having that time together in Thailand was really important to get everyone back together and play T20 cricket as a group for this first time in a while. It was great getting to work on a few different things in terms of how we want to play and push the players really hard we still have work to do, but it was good to get some hard games under our belt and play in high-pressure situations. Its pleasing to welcome Kathryn Bryce back, shes our captain and a world class player, and she adds so much value to all aspects of the game, both on and off the pitch. Sarah Bryce and Abtaha Maqsood did an outstanding job in Thailand leading the group, and Kathryn just adds value on top of that. Having that time together in Thailand was really important to get everyone back together and play T20 cricket as a group for this first time in a while. It was great getting to work on a few different things in terms of how we want to play and push the players really hard we still have work to do, but it was good to get some hard games under our belt and play in high-pressure situations. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Scotland Women's squad: Kathryn Bryce (captain), Chloe Abel, Olivia Bell, Sarah Bryce, Darcey Carter, Priyanaz Chatterji , Katherine Fraser, Ailsa Lister, Abtaha Maqsood, Megan McColl, Mollie Parker, Hannah Rainey, Niamh Robertson-Jack, Rachel Slater, Pippa Sproul Article Source: IANS

TPL 7: Former World No. 23 Damir Dzumhur Lauds Tournaments Global Prominence

Former World No: Two days into Season 7 of the Tennis Premier League (TPL), the leagues expanding international reputation has been strongly validated by players across generations, as former World No. 23 Damir Dzumhur, representing Yash Mumbai Eagles, and young Czech player Dalibor Svrcina of Chennai Smashers shared their initial thoughts on the tournament and offered insights into TPLs growing global reach. Damir Dzumhur, a 33-year-old veteran of the league with experience facing top players like Carlos Alcaraz, stated that he was aware of TPL long before arriving in India. He said, I had spoken to a couple of international players that played TPL in the past and a lot of them told me the management is very good and its very fun being inside the team. I myself have played Davis Cup for my country (Bosnia and Herzegovina) for 15 years so I really enjoy working together as a team. He also praised TPLs unique format while saying, I like how it works with only 25 points a match. This is incredible for someone who wants to start watching Tennis because Grand Slam matches can go for about 4-5 hours and not everyone enjoys that. Its shorter, there is always movement, there is always something happening. Its a lot of fun for people watching, he said. The surface is very nice, the weather is great. Everything we have here to practice and play is really good. Im definitely up to do it again in future years, he concluded. Representing the younger generation of international players experiencing TPL for the first time, Dalibor Svrcina shared similar praise. The 23-year-old Czech player, who recently entered the top 100 rankings said, Its been really good so far. The facilities, hotel and the organisers are good. We feel very welcomed here. As a team we are in the positive numbers. My goal now is to help my team reach the semi-finals. Describing the leagues structure as a welcome change, he stated, Its a very different format, very fast, very fun and entertaining. You see different good players back-to-back so it keeps everything fresh. Its nice even for the fans. Representing the younger generation of international players experiencing TPL for the first time, Dalibor Svrcina shared similar praise. The 23-year-old Czech player, who recently entered the top 100 rankings said, Its been really good so far. The facilities, hotel and the organisers are good. We feel very welcomed here. As a team we are in the positive numbers. My goal now is to help my team reach the semi-finals. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With endorsements from experienced player Damir Dzumhur and rising star Dalibor Svrcina, TPLs broad appeal across different age groups becomes evident. Their experiences show that the league is highly regarded internationally and fulfils its promises once players reach India. As Season 7 advances, TPL solidifies its status as a globally significant, player-orientated, and highly engaging tennis event. Article Source: IANS

Babar Azam Looks Forward To Playing With Steve Smith In BBL

Big Bash League: Pakistans batting star Babar Azam says he is eager not only to entertain fans but also to sharpen his game alongside Australian great Steve Smith as anticipation builds ahead of the Big Bash Leagues opening weekend. With large pockets of the Pakistani community in Sydney and Perth rushing to buy tickets, Babar has quickly become one of the major attractions of this years tournament. The Sydney Sixers begin their campaign on Sunday against the five-time champions, the Perth Scorchers, at Optus Stadium. I am super excited to be a part of the Sydney Sixers, Babar told Telecom Asia Sport. It is a fact that you learn a lot while playing in Australia so this is going to be a good experience for me, more so because I will get a chance to play alongside Steve Smith, who is a great player. He is one of seven Pakistani players participating in the latest edition of the league. His long-time T20I opening partner Mohammad Rizwan joins the Melbourne Renegades, while Shaheen Shah Afridi turns out for Brisbane Heat. Haris Rauf reunites with the Melbourne Stars, Shadab Khan represents Sydney Thunder, Hasan Ali plays for the Adelaide Strikers, and Hasaan Khan also lines up for the Renegades. Babar said he is already feeling the support from local Pakistan fans. I have already seen the excitement in the Pakistan community in Perth and when I go to Sydney there will be more fans coming, so its a nice thing to entertain them. For many supporters, this is a rare opportunity to watch the prolific batter in action. Mohammad Imran, who has lived in Perth for 20 years, said he and his friends secured their seats early. We bought tickets for the match well in advance and will go to see our beloved batter in action. Babar said he is already feeling the support from local Pakistan fans. I have already seen the excitement in the Pakistan community in Perth and when I go to Sydney there will be more fans coming, so its a nice thing to entertain them. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Babar is our honour, said Sohail Sheikh, a cricket organiser in Sydney. There is a lot of excitement amongst the Pakistani fans over Babar coming to Sydney and play for our team in the BigBash League. Article Source: IANS

Hay Shines on Test Debut as New Zealand Take 41-Run Lead in Wellington

Mitch Hay scored an aggressive half-century on his Test debut to help New Zealand to a 41-run lead over the West Indies at the close of play on day two of the second Test in Wellington on Thursday. The Black Caps were 278 all out with about an hour to play in the final session, after the West Indies scored 205 at the Basin Reserve. At stumps the visitors were 32-2 in their second innings, with Brandon King (15) and Kavem Hodge (3) at the crease. Michael Rae and Jacob Duffy took a wicket each as New Zealand got through 10 overs in fading light. Hay top-scored with 61 from 93 deliveries, playing with poise in his first taste of Test cricket. He hit nine fours and a six. Anderson Phillip was the pick of the visiting bowlers, taking 3-70 in 13 overs. Kemar Roach had figures of 2-43. The 25-year-old Hay came to the crease at 117-4 after Rachin Ravindra, for five, and Devon Conway, who made 60, fell in back-to-back overs immediately after lunch. He quickly found his feet at Test level, at ease with the pace and movement of the Basin Reserve wicket. Hay and Daryl Mitchell combined for a 73-run partnership for the fifth wicket, with Hay the aggressor, leaving Mitchell in the unusual position of playing anchor. It was awesome to see Mitch do what he does, Mitchell said of his Canterbury teammate. He's obviously done that for Canterbury for a number of years. He's good fun out in the middle, and he showcased the talent he's got. Debut's always nervy, and it's always nice to get that first run, so very proud of him. Mitchell fell just before tea for 25 and Hay eventually hooked a ball to Roach in the deep. Zak Foulkes added 23 unbeaten runs but ran out of partners. - 'One of my best' - Earlier, Conway scored eight fours and faced 108 balls before feathering one down the leg side to wicketkeeper Tevin Imlach just after lunch. Conway and Kane Williamson, who was out near the end of the morning session for 37, had steadied the New Zealand innings after captain Tom Latham was bowled by Roach for 11. After the hosts resumed on their overnight 24-0, Williamson came to the crease at 36-1 and New Zealand's record run-scorer punished some erratic bowling as he hit seven fours in a 46-ball stay. Conway was given a life when dropped by Shai Hope at leg slip on 28. He took advantage and had put on 67 for the second wicket when Phillip bowled Williamson with an unplayable swinging delivery that took the top of off-stump. That was definitely one of my best, Phillip said. And it was Kane Williamson as well. I've been bowling well, so glad to see that it's coming together when it matters. Seam bowler Blair Tickner dislocated his shoulder on day one and will not bowl or field for the rest of the match, the hosts said. Tickner, who took 4-32 in a career-best effort on Tuesday, was taken to hospital after being injured while fielding and will only bat if necessary. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The first Test ended in a draw.

NZ Hold The Edge Despite Windies' Fightback On Day 2 Of Wellington Test

As New Zealand: New Zealand strengthened their hold on the ongoing second Test against the West Indies here at the Basin Reserve, thanks to the composed half-centuries by Devon Conway and debutant Mitchell Hay before their seamers undermined the West Indies' response. The hosts built a 73-run lead after being bowled out for 278, then took two wickets with the new ball to leave West Indies 41 runs behind with eight wickets still in hand at stumps. As New Zealand resumed from the overnight score of 24/0, the West Indies quicks troubled the hosts throughout the innings. Kemar Roach, Jayden Seales, Ojay Shields, and Anderson Phillip all found swing and seam, repeatedly forcing defensive errors. Loose strokes from New Zealands batters only added to the pressure. But Conway anchored the innings with a composed 60, his first fifty against the Caribbean side, punishing anything short or wide with crisp cuts and flicks among his eight boundaries. Hay, debuting at No. 6, added a composed 61, helping New Zealand rebuild after a mid-session stumble. New Zealand's innings started poorly. Tom Latham's off stump was knocked out by a sharp nip-back from Roach, and Kane Williamson was dismissed by Phillip, whose late-straightening delivery beat his defence. After lunch, Roach got Rachin Ravindra caught fishing at a wide one, while Conway was caught leg side off a poor delivery from Justin Greaves, courtesy of Tevin Imlachs athletic diving catch. At 117 for 4, New Zealand remained vulnerable. Hay and Daryl Mitchell steadied the innings with a 73-run stand, only for West Indies to break through soon. Hay miscued a pull shot in the fourth over of the session, and Glenn Phillips, after an adventurous cameo worth 18, slogged one into the hands of Philip. The tail, however, proved stubborn as Jacob Duffy, Zakary Foulkes and Michael Rae chipped in valuable runs to stretch the lead before Seales finally ended the innings by removing Rae. With Blair Tickner unavailable due to injury, New Zealand declared upon losing their ninth wicket. The tail, however, proved stubborn as Jacob Duffy, Zakary Foulkes and Michael Rae chipped in valuable runs to stretch the lead before Seales finally ended the innings by removing Rae. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: West Indies 205/10 and 32/2 in 10 overs (Brandon King 15*, John Campbell 14; Michael Rae 1-4, Jacob Duffy 1-8) trail New Zealand 278/9d in 74.4 overs (Mitchell Hay 61, Devon Conway 60; Anderson Phillip 3-70, Kemar Roach 2-43) by 41 runs Article Source: IANS

BCCI To Revise Womens Domestic Cricket Pay Structure In Apex Council Meet On Dec 22

Joint Secretary Prabhtej Singh Bhatia: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will take up the revision of the pay structure for women cricketers at its 31st Apex Council meeting on December 22. The meeting will be held online and is slated to begin at 7:00 PM. Amongst the six agendas listed for the meeting, revision in payments for women cricketers in domestic cricket is listed at number two and holds significant importance, considering disparities are still present. As per the last revision made in 2021, for a domestic one-day game, senior womens players are paid Rs 20,000 per match, hiked from the previous amount of Rs 12,500. For the womens U23, U19 and U15, players are currently getting Rs 10,000. Reserve players in all womens tournaments would get 50 percent of the amount. In between, the senior womens zonal red-ball tournament also restarted, which means its payscale also needs a proper structure. Sources familiar with the matter told IANS on Thursday that revising womens domestic payment is a good and much-needed move. The Harmanpreet Kaur-led side winning this years ODI World Cup also means a revision of the womens central contracts is also a big likelihood, considering Annual Player Retainership Contracts is listed as agenda number five. As of now, the highest central contract amount for womens is Rs 50 lakh -- which is half of the amount of the lowest grade in men's cricket (Grade C) -- followed by 30 lakh and 10 lakh in the next two brackets. Central contracts for the mens team will also be on the agenda, with particular focus on the grade of batting stalwarts and former skippers Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. The duo have stepped away from Tests and T20Is, which makes their categorisation a matter of interest ahead of the new cycle. With Shubman Gill becoming Test skipper and ODI captain, as well as T20I vice-captain, his grade of central contract will be of great interest. The meeting is also expected to finalise revisions to fees of umpires and match referees, as well as seek an update on BCCIs digital properties. Central contracts for the mens team will also be on the agenda, with particular focus on the grade of batting stalwarts and former skippers Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. The duo have stepped away from Tests and T20Is, which makes their categorisation a matter of interest ahead of the new cycle. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Saurashtra Cricket Association (SCA) President Jaydev Shah was also elected to the Apex Council as a representative of the general body. Article Source: IANS

Fifties from Conway, Hay extend New Zealand's advantage

The hosts secured a 73-run first-innings lead before picking up two early wickets to hurt West Indies further

NZ Spinner Eden Carson To Undergo Surgery, Set To Miss Women's T20 WC Title Defence

T20 World Cup: New Zealand off-spinner Eden Carson is set to undergo surgery on her right elbow on Thursday and is anticipated to need six months of rehabilitation before making a return to competitive cricket. Given the recovery timeline, the spinner will miss the rest of the home summer as well as New Zealand's title defence at the 2026 ICC Womens T20 World Cup. Carson suffered a partial ligament tear in her elbow during the teams training camp in Dubai ahead of the 2025 ICC Womens Cricket World Cup and played through the injury during the tournament. Because the injury involves her bowling arm, head coach Ben Sawyer said they decided to proceed with surgery now to safeguard her long-term career. Were all really gutted for Eden. The team has a big six months ahead, and I know how difficult it was for her to make the decision to go through with the surgery now, but I fully support it. It'll obviously be a huge loss for the team not having Eden available, especially for the T20 World Cup, where she played a big role for us last year. At just 24 years old, shes still got a long career ahead, so its important we look forward and prioritise getting her back on the park and fully fit, Sawyer said in a statement released by New Zealand Cricket (NZC). Carson finished with nine wickets from six innings, at an economy rate of 6.39, during New Zealands T20 World Cup-winning campaign in October 2024 in Dubai. At just 24 years old, shes still got a long career ahead, so its important we look forward and prioritise getting her back on the park and fully fit, Sawyer said in a statement released by New Zealand Cricket (NZC). Also Read: Live Cricket Score The matches will be played at venues across Hamilton, Wellington and Dunedin. Article Source: IANS

Oliver Peake To Lead Australia's U19 World Cup Title Defense

ICC U19 World Cup: Left-hand batter Oliver Peake will captain Australia in the ICC U19 World Cup as the reigning champions will be aiming for their fifth title when the marquee event commences on January 12 in Zimbabwe and Namibia. Peake, who played an integral role in Australia's title success in South Africa in 2024, is the only member of Australia's squad that won the Under 19 World Cu last year. He amassed 120 runs from four innings at the tournament - including an unbeaten 46 not out in the final against India - after being called up as an injury replacement player during the early stages of the event. The 19-year-old also featured in the Prime Minister's XI against England in Canberra last month where he scored an excellent half-century against many of the tourists' Ashes squad. Nitesh Samuel, Naden Cooray and William Taylor are the three newcomers in the squad and have been rewarded with selection for their impressive performance at this month's Under-19 Male National Championships. The Australia team will be coached by Tim Nielsen, who believes the side is well balanced to make a bid for back-to-back titles. We're delighted to announce a strong and well-balanced squad for the ICC Under-19 World Cup, Nielsen said. Our focus has been on selecting a group with complementary skill sets that provide the best chance of success in the tournament. The players named have impressed with their performances during the U19 series against India in September and at the recent National U19 Championships in Perth. It's an exciting group, some have already experienced senior training environments, while others are progressing rapidly through our pathway The World Cup is a fantastic opportunity for these young cricketers to showcase their talent and test themselves against the best in the world. Australia are drawn in Group C at the Under 19 World Cup and will take on Ireland, Japan and Sri Lanka during the opening round of the event. The World Cup is a fantastic opportunity for these young cricketers to showcase their talent and test themselves against the best in the world. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Australia squad: Oliver Peake (c), Kasey Barton, Naden Cooray, Jayden Draper, Steven Hogan, Thomas Hogan, Ben Gordon, John James, Charles Lachmund, Alex Lee Young, Will Malajczuk, Nitesh Samuel, Hayden Schiller, Aryan Sharma, William Taylor Article Source: IANS

Injured Tickner Will Not Bowl Or Field For Rest Of Wellington Test Vs Windies: NZC

New Zealand Cricket: New Zealand have revealed a new update on injured pacer Blair Tickner, saying it would be unlikely the fast bowler will feature in the remainder of the second Test against the West Indies. Tickner dislocated his shoulder while fielding on the opening day of the second Test on Wednesday. BlackCaps pace bowler Blair Tickner will not bowl or field, and is unlikely to bat for the remainder of the second Test in Wellington, after dislocating his shoulder while diving to stop a boundary on day one, New Zealand Cricket said in a statement. Tickner, who was taken to hospital for treatment last night, will join the squad at the ground today as he awaits further specialist assessment to determine his return to play, it added. Tickner was the standout performer on the opening day of the second Test, as he claimed a four-wicket haul but injured himself in the 67th over while attempting to prevent a boundary at fine leg. Chasing a flick from Tevon Imlach, he dived full-length near the rope and stayed down immediately. The medical staff from the New Zealand camp and the venue attended to him on the boundary edge before he was stretchered off. He later left the ground in an ambulance. Tickner's injury comes at a time when New Zealand have already lost Matt Henry, Mitchell Santner, and Nathan Smith for the rest of the Test series owing to their respective injuries. Henry (calf tear) and Smith (side strain) sustained their injuries during the drawn first Test in Christchurch, while Santner (groin) was ruled out before the match. Tickner's injury comes at a time when New Zealand have already lost Matt Henry, Mitchell Santner, and Nathan Smith for the rest of the Test series owing to their respective injuries. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Wicketkeeper Tom Blundell was also ruled out of the second Test after he suffered the injury while batting in the first Test in Christchurch last week. Article Source: IANS

Joe Root Finally Scores First Test Hundred in Australia, Joins Elite 40-Century Club

At last Joe Root has scored a Test hundred in Australia. This was one of the most awaited hundreds in international cricket like Sachin Tendulkars wait for his 100th hundred (the gap between his 99th and the 100th was 371 days) or Virat's wait for 1205 days (3 years, 3 months and 17 days) en route to his 28th ton in Tests. Root hit 138* against Australia and became the first English batsman and the fourth overall to score 40 career hundreds in Test cricket (others: Ricky Ponting 41, Jacques Kallis 45 and Sachin Tendulkar 51). Joe Roots drought in Australia had become a mystery. The drought had put Root under pressure, and this was probably the last tour for him to end the same. He took off his helmet and raised his bat after scoring a hundred that was long overdue and now, he must be a relieved man. This doesnt mean that his batting class in Tests in Australia was under any doubt. He has now scored a hundred but is yet to cross another benchmark. He is one of the four batsman who has Test average of 40+ in at least seven countries (min 10 innings in each country) with Sachin Tendulkar leading the pack with his success in eight countries (others: Younis Khan, Joe Root and Inzamam-ul-Haq), but he is yet to cross this barrier in Australia (37.60 up to Brisbane Test). He scored a hundred in Australia in Tests in the 30th attempt (in 16th Test) and is hopeful that this will not be his last in Australia. Overall, this was his fifth against Australia, probably scored in the most difficult of conditions in the pink-ball Test. Before this, his highest score in Australia was 89, scored at the Gabba. Joe Root now has 40 Test Centuries and among the Fab 4, he is the first to reach Test hundred number 33 to now 40. In fact, the other three are much behind now: Steve Smith - 36, Ken Williamson 33 and Virat Kohli 30. In the list of most Test hundreds, Joe Root is now fourth with Sachin Tendulkar - 51, J Kallis 45 and Ricky Ponting 41 ahead of him. Some other facts: *Incidentally, his 100th run of his first century in Australia was also his 1000th Test run in Australia. * Fewest Innings to reach 40 Test hundreds: 246 - Jacques Kallis, 251 - Sachin Tendulkar, 273 - Ricky Ponting and 291 - Joe Root. * First century for Joe Root across countries: England - 104, Leeds, 2013 West Indies - 182*, ST George's, 2015 South Africa - 110, Johannesburg, 2016 India - 124, Rajkot, 2016 Sri Lanka - 124, Pallekele, 2018 New Zealand - 226, Hamilton, 2019 Pakistan - 262, Multan, 2024 Australia - 138*, Brisbane, 2025 *Test Centuries by fab 4 away from home (innings per century): 18: Steve Smith (6.2) 16: Virat Kohli (7.7) 16: Joe Root (7.3) 13: Kane Williamson (7.6) *Joe Roots 40 Test hundreds have been accumulated all over the world: 24 in England; 4 in West Indies; 3 in each of India, Sri Lanka & New Zealand. 1 in each of South Africa, Pakistan and Australia. The happiest person to see Joe Root scoring a Test hundred in Australia is Grace Hayden, daughter of the former Australia opener Matthew Hayden and TV Anchor because her father had promised to walk nude around the MCG if he (Root) doesnt make a hundred this summer, forcing Grace to respond on Instagram with: Please Joe Root, make a hundred. Matthew, 54, was convinced that on this tour Root would hit a century, after 29 innings, that he made a bet with fellow former Aussie Greg Blewett. Grace Hayden, 23, took to social media to thank the England batter and ensured her father would not have to come good on his pledge to walk around Melbourne Cricket Ground naked. She followed it with a clip from the film F1, released this year, in which a team principal played by Javier Bardem celebrates wildly following his team winning a race below the caption 'Joe Root finally has a Test century in Australia.' Also Read: Live Cricket Score In July 2020, Virat Kohli was the leader among the fab 4 with 27 Test hundreds, followed by Steve Smith 26, Kane Williamson 21 and Root the least at 17. Now the England batsman is walking tall with 40 hundreds.

Eden Carson to undergo surgery for partial ligament rupture in right elbow

Offspinner Eden Carson will not be available for the remainder of the home summer nor New Zealand's title defence at the 2026 T20 World Cup

Clarke has doubts over Khawaja returning to Test side

Greg Blewett also believes Australia should stick with the same batting order for the third Test in Adelaide, but Mike Hussey wants Usman Khawaja to open again

Peake to captain Australia in Under-19 World Cup title defence

The left hander played a key innings in the 2024 final against India and has since represented Australia A

IND vs SA 2nd T20I: Approaching Milestones and Records Ahead of Mullanpur Clash

IND vs SA 2nd T20I,T20IApproaching Milestones and Records :Team India took a 1-0 lead as they hammered the tourists with a margin of 101 runs. That was the poorest defeat ever for South Africa in T20Is. Hardik Pandya and the bowlers were the key performers for the hosts, handing them a dominating win. Now, the Indian cricket team and the South African cricket team will be up against each other in the New Chandigarh match. The second T20I will commence at 7 PM IST on Thursday at Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Mullanpur, New Chandigarh. India will look to replicate the success and win the next game. South Africa will be looking to bounce back and level the series at 1-1. Jasprit Bumrah became only the second Indian with 100 T20I wickets and the first Indian bowler to take 100 or more wickets across all three formats. There were a few more records, which got tumbled in the first T20I. Not just this, there are a few more records, which are expected to be achieved in the second T20I. Here, we will talk about big records and milestones which are lined up and can be achieved in the India vs South Africa2nd T20I clash at Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Mullanpur, New Chandigarh. IND vs SA 2nd T20I: Approaching Test Records and T20ICricket Milestones Ahead of the IND vs SA 2nd T20IatMaharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Mullanpur, New Chandigarh 81 - Hardik Pandya slammed a 59 off 28 in the first game. Now, he is just 81 runs away from completing 2000 T20I runs. He will become the fifth Indian to do so. 19 - South African captain Aiden Markram needs 19 more runs to complete 1500 T20I runs. 4 - Lungi Ngidi took three wickets in the first game. He needs four more to surpass Kagiso Rabada (77) and become the second-highest wicket-taker in T20I cricket. 1 - Hardik Pandya is just one wicket away from becoming only the third Indian bowler with 100 wickets in T20 internationals. 3 - No. 1 ranked T20I bowler Varun Chakravarthy is just three wickets away from completing 50 T20I wickets. If he does in the second game, he will become India's fastest to do so. 1 - Lasith Malinga is a legendary name in T20Is, who retired with 107 wickets. Arshdeep Singh also has 107 wickets and needs one more wicket to surpass the Sri Lankan legend. Also Read: Live Cricket Score 5 - Sanju Samson didn't play in the first game. But if he plays in the second game, he needs five runs to complete 1000 T20I runs.

Thomas Knight Named As Scotlands Captain For 2026 Mens U19 World Cup

U19 World Cup: Thomas Knight has been appointed as Scotlands captain for the 2026 International Cricket Council (ICC) Mens Under-19 World Cup, to be held in Namibia and Zimbabwe from January 15 to February 6. In a statement, Cricket Scotland said that following the ICC Europe Qualifier in August, Shlok Thaker and Shreyas Tekale have been added to the squad for the biannual showpiece event. Its exciting to welcome Shlok and Shreyas into the squad, and were really happy to see the work theyve put in to get to this stage, said head coach Keegan Russell. Shlok was with us as part of the wider training squad and unfortunately missed out on a place at the Qualifier. Hes gone away and taken on board the feedback, put a huge amount into his training, and come back fitter and stronger and is now bowling the best that weve seen him. Its really pleasing to see that approach hes taken, responding to what could be seen as a setback, and hes come back stronger for it. Shreyas had a great tour in Ireland with the U17 squad at the Celtic Cup and proved a real handful on the wickets over there, he said. Hes had a tough journey in terms of the teams hes had to graft to get into, and as someone who wasnt in our wider squad at the start of the year, hes come on a great deal and turned heads with some of his performances, so he deserves his selection. Scotlands squad will fly to South Africa on December 30 for a training camp at Potchefstroom, before heading to Zimbabwe for playing warm-up games against India in Bulawayo and Bangladesh in Harare. The tournament begins for Scotland on January 15 when they take on hosts Zimbabwe in Harare, followed by Group B matches against Pakistan and England on January 19 and 21, respectively. Its an exciting time for everyone, but its been challenging as well. Its important to remember that we are looking after a group of teenage boys who are training like professionals ahead of this World Cup, so its been brilliant to see their excitement, and its been a long time coming for them, he added. The tournament begins for Scotland on January 15 when they take on hosts Zimbabwe in Harare, followed by Group B matches against Pakistan and England on January 19 and 21, respectively. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Scotland squad: Thomas Knight, Finlay Carter, Max Chaplin, George Cutler, Rory Grant, Finlay Jones, Ollie Jones, Ali Khan, Olly Pillinger, Ethan Ramsay, Theo Robinson, Manu Saraswat, Shlok Thaker, Shreyas Tekale, and Jake Woodhouse Article Source: IANS

India vs South Africa, 2nd T20I - Who will win today IND vs SA match?

IND vs SA , 2nd T20I , Cricket Tips :Team India managed a rather easy win in the first T20I in Cuttack by 101 runs. The hosts managed to outfox the visitors, and it was a nightmare with the bat. Every Indian bowler picked up a wicket. Now, these sides will be up against each other in the second game. Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Mullanpur, New Chandigarh, will host this game on Thursday at 7 PM IST. Shubman Gill and Suryakumar Yadav are struggling with the bat. India need runs from their top order. South Africa will be looking to bounce back and level the series. IND vs SA: Match Details Date : December 11, 2025 (Thursday) Time : 7:00 PM IST Venue : Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Mullanpur, New Chandigarh IND vs SA: Live Streaming Details Star Sports Network on cable TVs in India will broadcast the live action of the second T20I. Fans can also enjoy the live action through the Jio Hotstar app or website. IND vs SA: Head-to-Head Total Matches : 32 India : 19 South Africa : 12 No-Result : 01 IND vs SA: Ground Pitch Report The wicket in Mullanpur is a good wicket for the batting side. For the first half, the wicket will remain firm and the ball will bounce well. Batters can play their shots early on. But with time, the wicket will have a spongy bounce, and spinners will come in handy. IND vs SA: Possible XIs India : Suryakumar Yadav (c), Shubman Gill, Abhishek Sharma, Hardik Pandya, Tilak Varma, Shivam Dube, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Axar Patel, Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakaravarthy, Arshdeep Singh South Africa : Quinton de Kock (wk), Aiden Markram (c), Tristan Stubbs, David Miller, Dewald Brevis, Donovan Ferreira, Marco Jansen, George Linde, Lutho Sipamla, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje IND vs SA: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Abhishek Sharma is India's biggest star at the moment because of the form he is in. He will be a big wicket. For South Africa, Tristan Stubbs is someone who can tackle India bowlers in these conditions. Probable Best Bowler Arshdeep Singh set the tone for India with two wickets with the new ball. He will be a tough bowler to face early on. Lungi Ngidi did the same damage from South Africa. Today Match Prediction : South Africa had a poor game and they must be slightly under pressure. Hence, we back India to win this game on Thursday. IND vs SA Match 2nd T20I, Today Match IND vs SA, IND vs SA Prediction, IND vs SA Predicted XIs, Injury Update of the match between India vs South Africa Also Read: Live Cricket Score Disclaimer : The prediction or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.

You'd Be Foolish To Treat ILT20 As A Warm-up For T20 World Cup, Says DC All-rounder Neesham

T20 World Cup: James Neesham, the New Zealand seam-bowling all-rounder currently turning out for Dubai Capitals in the International League T20 *(ILT20), said the ongoing tournament cant be viewed as a warm-up for next years T20 World Cup, stressing that the mega event in India and Sri Lanka will pose challenges entirely different from the UAE conditions. In 93 T20Is for New Zealand, Neesham has amassed 1010 runs and grabbed 56 wickets. Look, I think everyone nowadays is playing cricket around the world pretty much year-round. So, you don't put too much emphasis on one tournament over another. I think India and Sri Lanka will be very different conditions from what they are over here. So we'll have to prepare for that tournament as best we can when that moment comes. But I think you'd be foolish to treat the ILT20 as, I suppose, a warm-up series for the World Cup because they're obviously two very unique prospects, Neesham told IANS in an exclusive conversation from Dubai. Neesham, a long-time globetrotter in T20 leagues, said his first stint in the ILT20 so far has been a unique one. It's obviously a unique tournament with the number of overseas players that are playing in each team. It's a high-quality product. I have come from Nepal, where there are only three or four overseas players in the team and six or seven locals. Then you come here, and there are only two locals and nine overseas. So, it's a different makeup. It brings high-quality cricket to the table. I think we're going to continue to see some very high-quality players over the next month or so, he said. Seeing Dubai Capitals, the defending champions, get their first win of the ongoing competition has been immensely helpful. Obviously, it's good to get our first win of the season. Rovman (Powell) and Coxsey (Jordan Cox) obviously batted incredibly well to get a good total, and the guys all bowled well as well. So, the mood in the camp is good. We've got a couple of good training days ahead of us before our next game is on Saturday. In the last few years, power-hitting has become a defining skill in modern T20 cricket batting, and Neesham stated that the scope of an anchor batter is now wiped out. Obviously, the game has become more aggressive, I think, over the last few years. I think the role of an anchor batter sort of batting through in an innings is almost extinct now. Most teams have set themselves up to be aggressive from the top, bat deep, and try to finish games off. So, it's an important part of the game to be able to clear the rope, and hopefully we can continue to do that over this series and bat other teams out of the game. Modern-day cricket has become significantly more demanding for fast bowlers, with workload and injury risks rising due to the overlap of international cricket and franchise leagues. Neesham opined that fast bowlers will soon be forced to choose between playing formats and urged the ICC to find a balance between scheduling international games and franchise leagues. I think fast bowlers basically just can't play all three formats. I don't think that can happen. So, guys are going to have to choose earlier than they would in the future. I think one day cricket is obviously the format that is going to fall by the wayside, I guess, with Test cricket being the most valuable format of the game and T20 being the biggest earner, he added. Modern-day cricket has become significantly more demanding for fast bowlers, with workload and injury risks rising due to the overlap of international cricket and franchise leagues. Neesham opined that fast bowlers will soon be forced to choose between playing formats and urged the ICC to find a balance between scheduling international games and franchise leagues. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Neesham signed off by hoping he can manage his playing schedule fairly well. Obviously, that'll be different for different individuals. So, for me, I'm 35 years old now, and I've been around the block a fair bit. So I'm pretty resilient when it comes to the physical demands of the game. So, hopefully that can continue for the next few years. Article Source: IANS

Playing ILT20 A Key Boost For Afghanistan Players Ahead Of T20 WC, Says DC All-rounder Nabi

T20 World Cup: Mohammad Nabi, the veteran Afghanistan all-rounder currently playing for Dubai Capitals in the ILT20, said the players participation from his country in the competition is a key boost, citing that its a platform to correct their errors made in the Asia Cup and serves as motivation to perform well ahead of next years T20 World Cup. Nabi has featured in 145 T20I matches for Afghanistan, amassing 2417 runs and picking 104 wickets. He has been a part of Afghanistans squad since the country first appeared in the T20 World Cup in 2010, and had their best-ever performance by reaching the semi-finals in the 2024 edition of the competition. Most Afghanistan players are playing in ILT20 and performing well. It gives us a lot of motivation to play in a high-level league before the T20 World Cup. We also have a series against the West Indies before the tournament happens. Those three T20I games will help us build a strong combination, Nabi told IANS in an exclusive conversation from Dubai. If we make mistakes during that series, we must fix them before the World Cup. Playing in ILT20 gives us more energy and helps us to work on the errors we made in the Asia Cup, he said. Though Nabi is 40, an age where many cricketers have thoughts of retiring from all forms of cricket, the veteran is showing no signs of slowing down. In the last 34 years, Ive enjoyed cricket more than when I was younger because of my hard work, training, and commitment at a high level. I cant escape anything -- I had to focus on my training, sleep, food, and diet. It gave me more motivation. When I am fit, I step onto the ground and give my 100%. When your body is working well and energetic, it improves your performance. I always focus on my next target. Like, what is my next event? Then I prepare my body for that. With the T20 World Cup coming, I have to focus on my body, fitness, and performance. I train myself both as a batter and a bowler. Thats why all my targets are set on the World Cup, and how I prepare my body for it, he elaborated. Nabi has carved a decent reputation as an attacking batting all-rounder who also bowls handy off-spin, and alongside leg-spinner Rashid Khan, he laid the foundation of Afghanistan players being picked in big numbers in various T20 leagues. With many Afghan players securing T20 league deals, Nabi felt a homegrown league would put more talented cricketers on the world map. Exposure is very important for our youngsters. Yesterday, the Afghanistan Cricket Board announced that the Afghanistan Premier League (APL) will be launched on December 20 and is set to be played next year. Thats great news for our youngsters, as talented players who have performed in domestic cricket but havent been seen internationally will now get a platform. This platform will be excellent for youngsters who are performing back home. Its great news for them because they will get more motivation to play high-level cricket in top leagues. When we perform at that stage, they are inspired to follow, he said. For now, Nabis attention will be on performing well for defending champions Dubai Capitals, who got their first win of the ongoing edition on December 7. The first win is always important to build and find a good combination for the team. We lost the first two games due to small mistakes and narrow margins, and we learnt from that. The last game was really good, and we won by a big margin. Hopefully this winning combination will work through the season, he said. With the UAE being a second home for Afghanistan players, Nabi knows the conditions by the back of his hand, and that has made him a vital source of intel for the Dubai Capitals players and coaches. For me, its like being at home. I always play international cricket in the UAE, and this league is stronger than other leagues because eight to nine international players are in the playing XI. Only three players -- two from the UAE and one from the associates - are included this time. Its a good thing; every team has a strong playing eleven, and it makes for tough competition. But for me, especially, its like being a local. All three venues - Sharjah, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi - have different conditions. You need three different plans for playing in these stadiums. I always share my experience with the coaches and players on how to play in Sharjah, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi. Its a great opportunity to share my knowledge with the team. Only three players -- two from the UAE and one from the associates - are included this time. Its a good thing; every team has a strong playing eleven, and it makes for tough competition. But for me, especially, its like being a local. All three venues - Sharjah, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi - have different conditions. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With so many international players around, we share the errors we made in the national team and learn from them. Then we bring that experience back to the national side. Playing in different conditions and environments gives me more exposure and helps me improve, he added. Article Source: IANS

Ashes 2025-26: England Should Still Stick With Brendon McCullum As Coach, Says OKeefe

Melbourne Cricket Ground: Former Australia off-spinner Steve OKeefe believes England should still stick with Brendon McCullum as their head coach despite mounting pressure on him following successive defeats in the ongoing five-game Ashes series. Englands aggressive tactics have come under immense scrutiny after losses in Perth and Brisbane, with critics questioning the sides reluctance to adapt. With McCullums over-training comments post the Brisbane loss getting a lot of backlash, calls for change have grown louder. OKeefe, however, believes England should persist with the former New Zealand captain, pointing to the transformation he has overseen since taking charge of the side in 2022. Look, I'd say sitting back and taking the emotion out of it (he should remain coach). Look at the coaching rate under him. At the end of the Joe Root and Chris Silverwood era, they won one out of 17, and they're shooting at 58 percent with McCullum. No England team has come over and done well in Australia since 2010/11. Does he survive? I think there are a lot of people saying that he wouldn't. But personally, I'd stick with him, said OKeefe on SEN Radio. McCullums contract runs till the end of the 2027 season in the UK, including when Australia come for the next Ashes series. OKeefe further said McCullum must adapt to lessons from the Ashes so far and address the issues ahead of future tours. He brings a bold new approach that this England team has got. Do they have to change their ways? Yes. Does he start having to listen a little bit more, adapt, and correct? Yes. 100 years of Test cricket will tell you that you just can't come up with the same plan and expect to have different results when you're getting thumped. McCullums contract runs till the end of the 2027 season in the UK, including when Australia come for the next Ashes series. OKeefe further said McCullum must adapt to lessons from the Ashes so far and address the issues ahead of future tours. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The third Ashes game will take place at the Adelaide Oval on December 17, before further clashes happen at the Melbourne Cricket Ground and Sydney Cricket Ground. Article Source: IANS

2026 T20 World Cup: Packed run-in for India, no games for Australia and Bangladesh

Here's how each Full Member team's run-in to the T20 World Cup looks

PCB revokes Haider Ali suspension, issues NOC to play in the BPL

The batter has not played any competitive cricket since being cleared of rape allegations by the Manchester Police in September

Kazuma Kato-Stafford To Captain Japan In 2026 U19 WC

Asian Cricket Council Premier Cup: Kazuma Kato-Stafford has been named as Japans captain for the 2026 Mens Under-19 World Cup, scheduled to be played in Namibia and Zimbabwe from January 15 to February 6. Nikhil Pol and Timothy Moore, who missed the recent Asian Cricket Council Premier Cup for Japan in Ajman, have both returned to the squad for the mega event. In that tournament, Japan defeated Maldives and Qatar by 183 runs, but a loss to Oman denied them a semi-final berth. Among the standout performers, Nihar Parmar, who struck 156 off 132 balls against Maldives, and Kaisei Kobayashi-Doggett, who hammered 106 off 73 deliveries against Qatar, are named in the World Cup squad. Reo Sakurano-Thomas, an active senior mens international cricketer, has been appointed as U19 side head coach. Kendel Kadowaki-Fleming, captain of Japans senior mens side, will serve as assistant coach. Japan are drawn in Group C of the tournament alongside Sri Lanka, defending champions Australia, and Ireland. The team will depart for South Africa on January 5 to play warm up matches against Tanzania and the West Indies on January 10 and 12, respectively. This will be the second appearance for Japan after first featuring in the U19 World Cup held in South Africa in 2020. The 16th edition of the Mens Under-19 World Cup will feature 16 teams divided into four groups of four each. Every side will play the other three teams in its group during the opening round, with the top three progressing to the Super Six stage. Japan are drawn in Group C of the tournament alongside Sri Lanka, defending champions Australia, and Ireland. The team will depart for South Africa on January 5 to play warm up matches against Tanzania and the West Indies on January 10 and 12, respectively. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Japan squad: Charles Hara-Hinze, Gabriel Hara-Hinze, Montgomery Hara-Hinze, Kazuma Kato-Stafford (Captain), Kaisei Kobayashi-Doggett, Timothy Moore, Skyler Nakayama-Cook, Ryuki Ozeki, Nihar Parmar, Nikhil Pol, Chihaya Sekine, Hugo Tani-Kelly, Sandev Aaryan Waduge, Kai Wall and Taylor Waugh Article Source: IANS

Trouble in paradise as Noosa tightens on England's Ashes hopes

Downtime in luxury beach resort may yet revive England's Ashes hopes, but the optics could be a disaster

Allen Could Miss Part Of NZs T20Is Against India If Scorchers Reach BBL Finals

Big Bash League: New Zealand opener Finn Allen may miss part of the five-match T20I series in India, scheduled for January 2026, due to his upcoming Big Bash League (BBL) commitments with Perth Scorchers. The T20I series against India, starting on January 21 in Nagpur, and followed by matches in Raipur, Guwahati, Visakhapatnam, and Thiruvananthapuram, is regarded as vital preparation for New Zealand ahead of the T20 World Cup scheduled to take place in India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8. Before this, New Zealand will play three ODIs in India from January 1117 and Allens availability for the T20Is depends on the defending champions Scorchers progress in the BBL. If the Scorchers reach the final on January 25, Allen may not be available until the fourth T20I on January 28. However, if they do not qualify, Allen is expected to be available for the full T20I series. Pending selection, Ill head straight to India once the Big Bash finishes up for us, Allen was quoted as saying by ESPNCricinfo on Wednesday. Allen is one of five players who have signed casual agreements with New Zealand Cricket (NZC), providing flexibility between national duties and franchise commitments. Playing for New Zealand is still, for me, the pinnacle and the reason why I love playing is to represent my country. But cricket's obviously evolving and changing year on year. New Zealand Cricket's been really good to work with over the last wee while. (I'm) confident about getting back into some Black Caps stuff after the Big Bash and hopefully can continue that, he added. Allen is one of five players who have signed casual agreements with New Zealand Cricket (NZC), providing flexibility between national duties and franchise commitments. Playing for New Zealand is still, for me, the pinnacle and the reason why I love playing is to represent my country. But cricket's obviously evolving and changing year on year. Also Read: Live Cricket Score In that tournament, his knock of 151 runs, including hitting a record 19 sixes for San Francisco Unicorns against Washington Freedom, left everyone jaw-dropped. Allen last featured for New Zealand in March, scoring 27 off 12 balls in an eight-wicket win over Pakistan in Wellington. Article Source: IANS

95 Pc Tickets Sold, Confirms PCA Chief As Mullanpur Set To Host First-ever Mens International Match

Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket: Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) president Amarjit Singh Mehta said that tickets for the forthcoming second T20I between India and South Africa at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Chandigarhs Mullanpur are 95 per cent sold out, with the venue set to witness an almost-packed stadium. He also noted that the second T20I will feature several BCCI dignitaries, as the venue gears up to host its first-ever mens international match. The occasion will be graced by Mithun Manhas, president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Moreover, two new stands will be unveiled on Thursday, named after former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh and the Indian womens teams World Cup-winning captain Harmanpreet Kaur. This is the first-ever men's international match taking place here at PCA Mullanpur Stadium. It's a very big match. Several dignitaries from the BCCI will be in attendance, including the President, Mithun Manhas. Many local delegates are also coming. The Governor and the CM will give their confirmation today, as we have made a special request for them to grace the occasion. Hopefully, they will also come tomorrow. 95 per cent tickets have already been sold at the stadium, Mehta told IANS. Moreover, two new stands will be unveiled on Thursday, named after former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh and the Indian womens teams World Cup-winning captain Harmanpreet Kaur. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India won the T20I opener on Tuesday and are leading the five-game series 1-0. Article Source: IANS

Virat Kohli Advances To Second Place In Latest ICC Mens ODI Batting Rankings Update

India superstar, Virat Kohli has advanced two slots to second place on the batters list in the latest ICC Mens ODI Player Rankings. He is just eight points behind teammate Rohit Sharma who continues to uphold his number one position. The move up the rankings comes after exceptional performances in the recently concluded three-match ODI series against South Africa where Kohlis scores of 135, 102 and 65 not out helped his team to a 2-1 series win. He was named Player of the Series for his 302 runs across the three fixtures. Aiden Markram and Quinton de Kock scored centuries in the second and third matches respectively and both moved up to 25th and 13th places respectively, while their skipper, Temba Bavuma went up three places to 37th. Kuldeep Yadavs four for 41 in the decisive third ODI also contributed to the series win for his team and advanced him to third place in the bowling table, up three places. In the ICC World Test Championship, Joe Roots first century in Australia enabled him to hold on to the top spot in the batters list with 781 rating points, but Harry Brook fell two places to fourth now behind Kane Williamson in second place (827 points) and Steve Smith (823 points) in third. Five Australians scored half-centuries in their first innings of the Brisbane win, with the biggest strides coming from Mitchell Starc whose 77 lifted him up 12 places to 90th, and Jake Weatherald rocketed 75 places to joint-106th after innings of 72 and 17 not out. Zak Crawley returned to the top 50 batters after a first-innings 76, but Jamie Smith dropped 12 places to 31st after scores of none and four. The West Indian fourth-innings rearguard was the highlight of the Christchurch Test as Justin Greaves struck an unbeaten double-century at number six to gain 16 places to a career-best 60th. He was well supported by Shai Hope, whose 140 moved him up 19 places to 48th and Kemar Roach whose unbeaten 58 occupied four and a half hours at the crease, enabled him to gain six places to 127th. He had a fine all-round match, taking five of the eight New Zealand wickets to fall in their second innings to bring himself back into the top 20 bowlers at number 18. New Zealands Rachin Ravindras 176 moved him back into the top 15 with the bat, and Tom Latham hit 145 to gain six places to 34th. Mitchell Starcs fine pink-ball performance which saw him take six wickets for 75 in Englands first innings, advanced him three slots in the bowlers list to a career-best third place and one slot to fifth in the all-rounders list. Michael Neser the first man whose first three Test match appearances have all been day-night affairs took five wickets for 42 in Englands second innings to re-enter the bowling charts at number 52. Jacob Duffy was the standout BLACKCAPS bowler, taking five for 39 in the West Indies first innings to help him up 76 places to joint-63rd The ICC Mens T20I Player Rankings also saw movements after the first encounter of the five-match series between India and South Africa in Cuttack on Tuesday, where India served up a comprehensive, 101-run victory over the visitors. Dewald Brevis moved into the top 10 among the batters, advancing three slots to eighth place after his 22-run knock. Indias Hardik Pandya progressed three places to fourth in the all-rounders list with Axar Patel moving to ninth (from 10th) on the same list and 13th (from 15th) among the bowlers. In the bowlers list, Arshdeep Singh went up three slots to 20th and Jasprit Bumrah jumped six spaces to 25th. Also Read: Live Cricket Score

Kazuma Kato-Stafford to lead Japan at men's Under-19 World Cup

Japan are in Group A at the World Cup alongside Australia, Ireland, Tanzania and West Indies

WPL 2026: Pooja Vastrakar Is A Tremendous Addition To RCB, Says Aakash Chopra

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Former India batter Aakash Chopra believes Pooja Vastrakars move to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) is a tremendous addition to the side ahead of 2026 Womens Premier League (WPL), saying that she brings in a strong batting quality which isnt found in other seam bowling options in the country. Despite her long layoff due to a shoulder surgery, which also led her to miss WPL 2025 season for eventual champions Mumbai Indians, Pooja found significant interest in last months mega auction, and eventually RCB roped her in for Rs 85 lakh. As of now, Pooja is in rehab at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru and is expected to be fit for WPL 2026, to be played from January 9 to February 5 in Navi Mumbai and Vadodara. The way RCB has collected and selected players gives them great flexibility. Based on pitch conditions, form, or injuries, they can make tactical changes, whether its choosing between Grace Harris or Lauren Bell depending on the opposition. When you look at Indian fast-bowling all-rounders, Pooja Vastrakar stands out because she brings a quality of batting that otherslike Renuka Singh Thakur, Shikha Pandey, Arundhati Reddy, or Kranti Gaud, do not offer at the same level. She is a rare commodity. Yes, she has had injury concerns, but theres only one Pooja Vastrakar in the country. Thats exactly why we saw a bidding war for her. UP Warriorz were very interested, but RCB knew what they wanted, and they secured her. In my opinion, its a tremendous addition, said Chopra on JioHotstar. Saba Karim, the former India wicketkeeper-batter and national selector, believes the Smriti Mandhana-led RCB have a well-balanced look due to the plethora of all-rounders in their line-up. I felt that RCB clearly leaned towards all-rounders this time, which is why you see so many in their line-up, starting from Nadine de Klerk, Arundhati Reddy, Grace Harris, and Pooja Vastrakar. Yes, she has had injury concerns, but theres only one Pooja Vastrakar in the country. Thats exactly why we saw a bidding war for her. UP Warriorz were very interested, but RCB knew what they wanted, and they secured her. In my opinion, its a tremendous addition, said Chopra on JioHotstar. Also Read: Live Cricket Score They will play matches in Navi Mumbai before going to Vadodara, and I believe the kind of wickets they will get there will complement this combination. Overall, this squad looks well-balanced for RCB, he concluded. Article Source: IANS

Kohli Edges Nearer To Dethroning Rohit As The No. 1 ODI Batter

ODI Player Rankings: Virat Kohlis twin centuries and an unbeaten half-century in the recently concluded ODI series against South Africa have helped him make additional progress in the latest ICC Men's ODI Player Rankings and get closer to replacing teammate Rohit Sharma as the No. 1 ODI batter. Kohli has not attained the No.1 ranking since Pakistans Babar Azam overtook him in April 2021. However, he is now nearing the top position again, thanks to his excellent performances at home. The 37-year-old was named Player of the Series for scoring 302 runs in three matches, and he was rewarded with a rise in the latest rankings, moving up two places to second overall behind teammate Rohit. Rohit scored a total of 146 runs throughout the series, securing his position at the top of the rankings. Meanwhile, Kohli narrowed the gap to within eight points, thanks to his unbeaten 65 not out in the series finale in Visakhapatnam. India's upcoming ODIs include a three-match series against New Zealand at home starting from January 11. All attention will be on Kohli and Rohit as they compete to secure the top position in the ODI rankings. Kohli wasn't the only Indian player to see significant improvements in the updated rankings this week; teammate KL Rahul also made notable progress in the ODI rankings for batters. The wicketkeeper-batter climbed two spots to rank 12th overall. Left-arm spinner Kuldeep Yadav was the biggest mover among ODI bowlers, rising three places to third. South African players also advanced in the ODI batter rankings: Quinton de Kock moved up three rungs to 13th, Aiden Markram improved four places to 25th, and Temba Bavuma climbed three spots to 37th, despite India winning a high-scoring series 2-1. The latest T20I rankings see changes after the series opener between India and South Africa, with Proteas young star Dewald Brevis climbing three spots to reach eighth among T20I batters, entering the top 10 overall. Three Indian players improved their T20I bowler rankings after their convincing 101-run win in Cuttack. Axar Patel rose two spots to 13th, Arshdeep Singh climbed three places to 20th, and Jasprit Bumrah moved up six positions to 25th. It's no surprise that Mitchell Starc has leapt in the latest Test Bowler Rankings, climbing three spots to reach third place. This increase is due to his back-to-back Player of the Match awards in the first two Ashes Tests against England. Starc has taken 18 wickets in two matches and is climbing to a new career-high rating, currently holding his best-ever ranking of third as a result. England's decline in form Down Under saw Harry Brook drop two places to fourth in the Test batter rankings. Kane Williamson (second) and Steve Smith (third) each move up one spot behind Joe Root at the top. It's no surprise that Mitchell Starc has leapt in the latest Test Bowler Rankings, climbing three spots to reach third place. This increase is due to his back-to-back Player of the Match awards in the first two Ashes Tests against England. Starc has taken 18 wickets in two matches and is climbing to a new career-high rating, currently holding his best-ever ranking of third as a result. Also Read: Live Cricket Score West Indies pair Shai Hope, who moved up 19 places to reach joint 48th, and Justin Greaves, who rose 16 spots to 60th, improved their positions in the Test batter rankings following their performances on the final day in Christchurch. Meanwhile, veteran fast bowler Kemar Roach advanced five places on the Test bowlers list after taking seven wickets in the match. Article Source: IANS

WPL 2026: Jemimah Leading Delhi Capitals Will Be Fascinating To Watch, Says Aakash Chopra

With Meg Lanning: Former India batter Aakash Chopra believes a possible elevation of Jemimah Rodrigues as captain of Delhi Capitals for the upcoming Womens Premier League (WPL) 2026 season will make for an intriguing storyline. With Meg Lanning roped in by UP Warriorz during last months mega auction, Jemimah is a front-runner to be DCs captain in WPL 2026, especially with team owner Parth Jindal stating that an Indian player will be made the sides skipper. Jemimah had been the vice-captain when Meg captained DC to the WPL finals thrice. Between Marizanne Kapp and Annabel Sutherland, you already have eight quality overs. Weve spoken about Nandini Sharma; she can be the third bowling option. DC have two excellent spinners in Sneh Rana and Shree Charani, and Chinelle Henry adds strong fast-bowling support. With their overseas players, they can easily get ten overs, if not twelve. If Nandini Sharma plays, she gives them even more pace-bowling depth. Their spin attack is already impressive. But the most interesting aspect is how Jemimah Rodrigues captains this side. Weve seen her flourish as a player and as a strong team personality, but this is her first time leading a successful franchise. Its a big elevation and will be fascinating to watch, said Chopra on JioStar. Saba Karim, the former India wicketkeeper-batter and national selector, believes that with the new additions DC have got, they should cross the line if they manage to enter the final, to be played on February 5 at Kotambi Stadium in Vadodara. For Delhi Capitals, the auction has never been the issue; it is about how they finish the tournament. Despite having match-winners in the line-up, for some inexplicable reason, they havent been able to cross the line in key knockout moments. Can they do it this time? They had a purse of 5.7 crore and worked very intelligently. Saba Karim, the former India wicketkeeper-batter and national selector, believes that with the new additions DC have got, they should cross the line if they manage to enter the final, to be played on February 5 at Kotambi Stadium in Vadodara. Also Read: Live Cricket Score They clearly want players who can finish games for them, which is why someone like Sneh Rana at No. 8 or 9 becomes important. So, while finishing has been an issue for DC, they have done some sharp work at the auction table, he said. Article Source: IANS

Kohli closes in on Rohit at the top of ODI batting rankings

Mitchell Starc's 18 wickets in the first two Ashes Tests have pushed him up to No. 3 among Test bowlers

Tickner, Rae Shine As NZ Bowl Out WI For 205 On Day 1 In Wellington Test

Kavem Hodge LBW: New Zealand pacers Blair Tickner and debutant Michael Rae delivered an impressive display on the opening day of the second Test in Wellington, dismissing West Indies for 205 inside 75 overs at Basin Reserve. Tickner had been outstanding, taking 4 for 32, with debutant Rae chipping in with three wickets. However, New Zealand finished the day short of a bowler again, as Tickner was stretchered off with a suspected shoulder dislocation 67 overs into the match play. Put in to bat first, the West Indies had a strong start as openers Brandon King (33) and John Campbell (44) built an opening partnership of 66 runs, before Tickner claimed the first wicket, trapping King LBW to end the partnership. He then had Kavem Hodge LBW for an eight-ball duck. Centurion from Christchurch, Shai Hope, came in to bat, but it was Campbell who kept the scoreboard ticking, hitting Rae for three boundaries. At lunch, the West Indies were 92-2. Debutant Rae, who had leaked runs in his first spell in Test cricket, made an impact after lunch. Coming around the wicket, he angled a full ball across Campbell, who leaned into a drive with firm hands and edged to first slip, and WI were 93 for 3. Then, Hope and Roston Chase added a steady 60 off 102 for the fourth wicket, but Tickner struck again with a sharp bouncer to dismiss Hope (48). At 175-4 at tea, it looked like it was the West Indies day, but the course of the contest changed quickly as Tickner and Rae lifted their spirits at the start of the final session. Tickner took his fourth wicket when Roston Chase (29) edged a nip-backer onto his stumps, but a five-wicket haul eluded him as he left the field in the 67th over after injuring himself while diving at fine leg. Soon, Rae had Justin Greaves caught behind for 13, before fellow debutant trapped Kemar Roach LBW for a duck after a smart review, leaving Windies reeling at 184-7. Glenn Phillips and Jacob Duffy then got the rest of the job done as the Windies were bowled out for 205. Tickner took his fourth wicket when Roston Chase (29) edged a nip-backer onto his stumps, but a five-wicket haul eluded him as he left the field in the 67th over after injuring himself while diving at fine leg. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief scores: New Zealand 24/0 in 9 overs (Devon Conway 16*, Tom Latham 7*) trail West Indies 205/10 in 75 overs (Shai Hope 48, John Campbell 44, Blair Tickner 4-32, Michael Rae 3-67) by 181 runs Article Source: IANS

Dinesh Karthik Named Mentor & Batting Coach Of London Spirit Men At The Hundred

London Spirit Men: Former India wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik, who is also a mentor of reigning IPL champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), has been named mentor and batting coach of The Hundred franchise London Spirit. In his first-ever role within a franchise for The Hundred, Karthik's expertise comes from participating in over 250 matches as both a player and a coach in the Indian Premier League (IPL), along with 180 international matches representing India. London Spirits Director of Cricket, Mo Bobat, in a statement shared by the franchise, said, Its a pleasure to welcome DK to London Spirit. He is a truly original thinker in our game and his vast experience in short-format and franchise cricket will be invaluable to us. Hes also great fun to work with and brings an infectious energy and enthusiasm to everything he does. The signing of another elite individual with significant stature in the game demonstrates our ambition and the importance we place on ensuring that our players receive the best possible support, Bobat added. London Spirits Director of Cricket, Mo Bobat, in a statement shared by the franchise, said, Its a pleasure to welcome DK to London Spirit. He is a truly original thinker in our game and his vast experience in short-format and franchise cricket will be invaluable to us. Hes also great fun to work with and brings an infectious energy and enthusiasm to everything he does. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The new role will be relatively easy for Karthik, who has worked closely with both Bobat and Andy Flower, Spirits head coach, at RCB in the IPL. Article Source: IANS

Dinesh Karthik appointed London Spirit mentor and batting coach

The signing of another elite individual with significant stature in the game demonstrates our ambition, London Spirit director of cricket Mo Bobat says