Dhir and the art of bouncing back
Former pacer Ashis recalls battles against touring Aussies
Kamboj debuts, Siraj and Reddy back as India bat
West Indies made three changes, bringing in Jewel Andrew, Matthew Forde and Gudakesh Motie
Abhishek switches off before turning on the style
Fleming turns to CSK as England name coaching set-ups
England move to split backroom staff across Test and white-ball squads
Jos Buttler faces lengthy lay-off after surgery on injured hamstring
Former captain
Matt Renshaw Stars Again, Australia On Top As South Africa Chase 421 In 1st Test
Australia set South Africa a 421-run target and the Proteas were laboring at 102-4 after the first full day of cricket in the first test at Kingsmead on Monday.
Teen Thomas Rew youngest to receive ECB Central Contract
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has significantly expanded its central contract list to 30 players, alongside nine development contracts, for the 2026/27 season, introducing several new faces and extending deals for key players.
I am a red-ball cricketer and played my natural game today: Rahul
New Kids In The Squad Are Undercooked: Ex-India Coach's Blunt Remark On Fielding Ability
From dropping regulation catches to letting easy boundaries slip away, the Indian fielders have not been up to the mark in the past couple of years or so.
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has confirmed the revised central contract list and coaching structure for England Men's international cricket.
Matt Renshaw Puts Victory In Sight For Australia
Matt Renshaw top-scored for the second time in the match and took a key wicket as Australia pushed for victory on the fourth day of the first Test against South Africa at Kingsmead on Monday. South Africa, set an improbable 421 runs to win, were 102 for four at the close. Renshaw followed his marathon 190 in the first innings with a brisk 82 in the second as Australia hurried to 314 for six in 58 overs before declaring. Opening bowler Josh Hazlewood struck twice before Renshaw, a part-time off-spinner, claimed his first Test wicket when he had South African captain Temba Bavuma caught off bat and pad at short leg. Australian captain Pat Cummins had Tristan Stubbs caught behind three overs later, leaving the world Test champions with an almost impossible task on Tuesday if Bavuma is to retain an unbeaten captaincy record. Since being appointed in 2023, Bavuma has led South Africa in 12 Tests, achieving 11 wins and a draw. No other captain in Test history has had such a successful start to a captaincy career. South Africa have lost four Tests since his appointment but all happened with other players at the helm. One of the wins under Bavuma was in the World Test Championship final against Australia at Lord's in 2025. While Renshaw's first innings was notable for his patience and the way he left the ball, the big left-hander was aggressive on Monday. He hit seven fours and two sixes in facing 99 balls as Australia set out to score quickly to give themselves enough time to bowl South Africa out. The tone was set from the start of the day as Nic Maddinson, who struggled to a 33-ball duck, continued to attack the bowling as he had done at the start of the Australian second innings on Sunday. Maddinson needed just 19 balls to hurry from 17 to a Test-best 48 before he was bowled by a fast yorker from Anrich Nortje. Nortje was South Africa's most impressive bowler. He struck Steve Smith on the helmet with a bouncer which prevented Smith from taking the field at the start of South Africas second innings, and also bowled Alex Carey. Renshaw was in sight of a second century in the match when he was out to a remarkable juggling return catch by Keshav Maharaj which needed to be confirmed by an umpires review. Cummins was next in and he thrashed four sixes in scoring 32 not out off 12 balls before declaring. Brief scores: Australia 390 and 314-6 declared (N. Maddinson 48, M. Labuschagne 37, M. Renshaw 82, B. Webster 39 not out, P. Cummins 32 not out; A. Nortje 2-56, K.Maharaj 2-56). South Africa 284 and 102-4 (A. Markram 45 not out, D. Bedingham 46; J. Hazlewood 2-20) Match situation: South Africa need 319 runs to win with six wickets remaining. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Toss: Australia
Gavaskar Recalls Childhood Dream of Dismissing Gary Sobers
Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar shared his childhood dream of dismissing legendary West Indies all-rounder Sir Garfield Sobers, whom he idolised as 'everybody's hero', during a conversation celebrating Sobers' life and legacy.
2 Coaches Part Ways With CSK, Join Stephen Fleming In England's Test Team Staff
Former South Africa head coach Eric Simons and ex-England wicketkeeper James Foster have joined the senior men's red-ball coaching staff under newly-appointed head coach Stephen Fleming, said the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Monday.
Australia six wickets away after dominant day
Renshaw backed up his remarkable 190 in the first innings with a brisk 82 off 99 balls and a wicket
PAK vs SL 3rd T20I Prediction, Match Preview And Playing XIs
PAK vs SL 3rd T20I, Cricket Tips: Pakistan have managed to record two easy wins in the ongoing T20I series against Sri Lanka. Captain Sahibzada Farhan has led the team from front and recorded scores of 89 off 53 and 73 off 44 balls. With this, he has also won his first bilateral series as official T20I captain. Maaz Sadaqat has been the real find of this series. The left-hander has looked fluent with his stroke play and has scored 50 off 29 and 96 off 51 balls. Pakistan have now won the series and will look to close it out with a 3-0 whitewash. The final game is scheduled for Tuesday at 6:30 PM IST at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. PAK vs SL: Match Details Date : October 13, 2026 (Tuesday) Time : 6:30 PM IST Venue : Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi PAK vs SL: Live Streaming Details In India, the only option to watch the final T20I between Pakistan and Sri Lanka is through the FanCode app or website. PAK vs SL: Head-to-Head in T20Is Total Matches : 32 Pakistan : 20 Sri Lanka : 12 No-result: 0 PAK vs SL: Ground Pitch Report Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium has produced two good games. Batters have enjoyed their time on the field, and the consistent bounce has helped them. Early on, there will be some swing, and spinners can get a grip once the ball gets old. PAK vs SL: Possible XIs Pakistan : Sahibzada Farhan (c), Fakhar Zaman, Maaz Sadaqat, Hasan Nawaz, Saim Ayub, Khawaja Nafay (wk), Shadab Khan, Md. Imran Randhawa, Salman Mirza, Naseem Shah, Abrar Ahmed Sri Lanka: Lahiru Udara, Kusal Mendis (c & wk), Kamindu Mendis, Sineth Jayawardena, Sahan Arachchige, Dasun Shanaka, Maheesh Theekshana, Chamindu Wickramasinghe, Eshan Malinga, Binura Fernando, Nuwan Thushara PAK vs SL: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Sahibzada Farhan has scored consecutive half-centuries and shown good form at the top. Sri Lanka need runs from Kusal Mendis because he is their proven match-winner with the bat. Probable Best Bowler Naseem Shah and Eshan Malinga have bowled well in both games and are expected to do well here. Today Match Prediction : Pakistan have outplayed Sri Lanka in both games and are expected to win the final game also. PAK vs SL Match 3rd T20I, Today Match PAK vs SL, PAK vs SL Prediction, PAK vs SL Predicted XIs, Injury Update for Pakistan vs Sri Lanka Match Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Disclaimer : The prediction or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.
Rahul and Revanth send Karnataka on a leather hunt
The duos 202-run partnership ensured the hosts finished on pole position exposing the inadequacies of the bowling attack after being in a spot of bother
Bangladesh Near Victory Over Afghanistan After Litton Das Century In One-Off Test
Bangladesh pushed towards a big win over Afghanistan in the one-off Test after a brilliant century from Litton Das helped them set a target of 479 runs in Abu Dhabi on Monday.
Ravindra Jadeja Slams Century, Ex-CSK Star Tushar Deshpande Bags Hattrick In Ranji Trophy
Pacer Tushar Deshpande took a hat-trick and a five-wicket haul as Chandigarh were bundled out for 78 by Mumbai on Day Two of their Ranji Trophy Elite Group D match.
Rishabh Pant ruled out of India A squad for NZ tour
Rishabh Pant has been ruled out of the first two India A matches against New Zealand due to a left side strain, with Kumar Kushagra named as his replacement.
Rishabh Pant ruled out of first two four-dayers against New Zealand A
Pant has a left side strain and has been replaced by Kumar Kushagra in the India A squad
Adpatingto different balls and conditions crucial:Suthar
Hyderabad on the cusp of victory as Tripura batters slip up in second innings
Former Zimbabwe player and umpire Sarah Dambanevana dies aged 36
Dambanevana represented Zimbabwe as a player between 2009 and 2014, including at the World Cup Qualifier in 2011
Rishabh Pant Hit By Injury Ahead Of New Zealand Series, BCCI Announces Replacement For India A Games
Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has been ruled out of India A's first two matches on the upcoming tour of New Zealand due to a left-side strain, with young keeper-batter Kumar Kushagra named as his replacement in the updated squad, the BCCI announced on Monday.
Rahul and Jaiswal in India A squad for red-ball matches in New Zealand
Dhruv Jurel has been named the captain of the side, while Rishabh Pant has been picked but his participation will be subject to fitness
SkipperSaiKishoresadvice helped me, revealsDeepesh
Ranji Trophy | DebutantDeepeshsquick strikes restrict Rajasthan to 363 against Tamil Nadu
The right-arm medium pacer picks up three wickets in eight deliveries to trigger the hosts collapse; Jagadeesan and Pradosh hit half-centuries as TN reaches 167 for four
Deflated Sri Lanka look to prevent whitewash against dominant Pakistan
Pakistan could make changes with the series in the bag, but they may also be tempted not to disrupt the in-form players' rhythm
Injured Pant Ruled Out Of India A's First Two Games Against NZ; Kushagra Named Replacement
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia: Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has been ruled out of India As first two matches on the upcoming tour of New Zealand due to a left-side strain, with young keeper-batter Kumar Kushagra named as his replacement in the updated squad, the BCCI announced on Monday. Pant, whose availability for the tour was subject to fitness after catching viral fever while leading the rest of India in the Irani Cup clash against Ranji Trophy winners Jammu & Kashmir at the Sher-i-Kashmir Stadium in Srinagar. BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia said Pant, 29, remains under the medical teams supervision, with a final call on his participation in the third match starting on October 7 in Lincoln to be taken later. He remains under the care of the BCCI Medical Team and is recovering well. A decision on his availability for the third match will be taken at a later stage. The Mens Selection Committee has named Kumar Kushagra as Pants replacement for the first two matches, added Saikia. Kushagra, the 21-year-old Jharkhand keeper-batter, will join the Dhruv Jurel-led squad for India A's red-ball shadow tour alongside international stars like Yashasvi Jaiswal, B Sai Sudharsan, KL Rahul, Auqib Nabi, Mukesh Kumar, Akash Deep, Manav Suthar, and Washington Sundar. Kushagra is coming on the back of a good run in India A red-ball games against Australia A in Puducherry. He amassed scores of 113 and 46 to give India A a victory in the first game, while making 10 and 1 in the second clash. The shadow 'A' series holds immense significance for both sides as a critical warm-up series ahead of the two-game Test series to be played in Wellington and Christchurch, which carries major implications in terms of entering the World Test Championship (WTC) final. Kushagra is coming on the back of a good run in India A red-ball games against Australia A in Puducherry. He amassed scores of 113 and 46 to give India A a victory in the first game, while making 10 and 1 in the second clash. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Ranji Trophy: Deshpande's Hat-trick Wrecks Chandigarh, Jadeja Slams Century For Saurashtra
Ranji Trophy Elite Division: Mumbai pacer Tushar Deshpande took a hat-trick and a five-wicket haul as Chandigarh were bundled out for 78 on Day Two of their Ranji Trophy Elite Group D match at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Monday. Deshpande tore through the top order to pick 5-17, and Mohit Avasthi backed him with figures of 3-9. Mumbai, who had made 429 on the back of half-centuries from Tanush Kotian and Avasthi, enforced the follow-on, and Deshpande struck again in the second innings to leave Chandigarh at 0/1. Veteran left-arm spin bowling all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, resuming on 72, scored 102 off 209 balls with seven fours as Saurashtra, who began the day on 308/4, were bowled out for 392 in 110.4 overs against Chhattisgarh in an Elite Group B clash at Rajkot. Jadeja fell to his former state-mate Dharmendrasinh Jadeja, who took 2-106 in 25.4 overs. Prerak Mankad went on to make 129 off 150 balls with 15 fours and a six, after starting the day on 92. Dev Aditya Singh was the pick of the Chhattisgarh bowlers with 5-67 in 24 overs, four of them maidens. Chhattisgarh were 122/3 in 55 overs at stumps. Anuj Tiwary was unbeaten on 72 and Mayank Verma on 32, with Ayush Pandey out for 13. Captain Jaydev Unadkat, Chetan Sakariya and Chirag Jani took a wicket each. Elsewhere, in the Elite Group A clash in Nagpur, Vidarbha captain Akshay Wadkar was dismissed two short of a maiden first-class double hundred, and his side finished on 428 against Puducherry after Yash Rathod hit 134 earlier in the day, with the visitors reaching 102/1 at stumps. In Goa, Atit Sheth was bowled for 99 as Baroda declared on 472/8 against Goa, who reached 5/1 at stumps. In Rajgir, Uttar Pradesh were bowled out for 540 against Bihar, with Aaradhya Yadav and Zeeshan Ansari scoring fifties after Madhav Kaushik (150) and Rinku Singh (112) fell. In Kalyani, West Bengal, Sudip Kumar Gharami (122 not out) and Abishek Porel (114 not out) hit centuries each and are unbroken in a 199-run stand as Bengal reached 304/3 against Delhi at Kalyani and have their lead currently at 64 runs. Jharkhand were bowled out for 587 against Kerala in Jamshedpur, with Aditya Singh's 147 and captain Virat Singh's 108 being strong contributions. Assam captain Denish Das (103) and Sibsankar Roy (143) also hit tons against Punjab in New Chandigarh, and Assam were bowled out for 373. For Punjab, veteran pacer Umesh Yadav took 5-70. In Ahmedabad, Gujarat's Vedant Trivedi (94 not out) and Aarya Desai (94) responded strongly to Baroda's 324 and took the hosts to 205/2 at stumps. In Vijayawada, SV Rahul, two days after turning 19, made a hundred on his first-class debut and shared a 202-run stand with wicketkeeper Revanth Reddy (97) that gave Andhra a 57-run lead over Karnataka, after ending day two at 331/6. Akash Vasisht's unbeaten 113 revived Himachal Pradesh, who had been 119/7, against Haryana and took them to 253. In reply, Haryana reached 178/4 in 46 overs and trailed by 75 runs, with Yashvardhan Dalal unbeaten on 69. Narayan Jagadeesan (55) and Pradosh Ranjan Paul (58) put on 104 for Tamil Nadu against Rajasthan, as they reached 167/4 and trailed by 196 runs. Rajasthan had been bowled out for 363, losing five wickets for 16 after Mahipal Lomror hit 66. B. Sai Sudharsan had gone down while fielding, and though he came out to bat, he made just three. Uttarakhand need 18 runs to match Railways' score of 78, with Avneesh Sudha unbeaten on 75. Tripura offspinner Sandip Sarkar took eight wickets in a 41.2-over spell, but Hyderabad still lead by 160 runs and need three wickets to move closer to an innings win. Fast bowler Avesh Khan's three wickets helped Madhya Pradesh bowl out defending champions Jammu and Kashmir for 120 to take a 76-run first-innings lead. But MP ended day twos play in Srinagar at 59/4, and are ahead by 135 runs overall, with fast-bowling all-rounder Auqib Nabis late strikes keeping the hosts in the contest. Uttarakhand need 18 runs to match Railways' score of 78, with Avneesh Sudha unbeaten on 75. Tripura offspinner Sandip Sarkar took eight wickets in a 41.2-over spell, but Hyderabad still lead by 160 runs and need three wickets to move closer to an innings win. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Uncapped Crocombe wins two-year deal as ECB confirms central contracts
Rookie seamer among biggest-ever pool of centrally contracted England Men's players
Anvay Dravid, son of legendary India cricketer Rahul Dravid, is in a rich vein of form in the ongoing Vinoo Mankad Trophy.
Steven Smith doesn't take the field after blow to the head while batting
As of Monday afternoon, he hasn't been diagnosed with concussion
Litton Das century cements Bangladesh's ascendancy
Afghanistan were left with seven wickets and were 347 away from their 479-run target
ICC Warns West Indies' Rovman Powell, Sherfane Rutherford After India T20I Clash. Here's Why
West Indies cricketers Rovman Powell and Sherfane Rutherford have been reprimanded for breaching the ICC Code of Conduct during the second men's T20 International against India in Ranchi on Friday.
Ranji Trophy 2026-27 | Deshpande hat-trick floors Chandigarh as Mumbai takes complete control
Chasing the hosts daunting 429, the visitor gets bowled out for a paltry 78 in just 115 balls; the seamer takes one more wicket in the only over of the second innings
Simons, Foster Join England Mens Red-ball Team Under Fleming; McCullum Retains White-ball Setup
Elite National Spin Bowling Lead: Former South Africa head coach Eric Simons and ex-England wicketkeeper James Foster have joined the senior mens red-ball coaching staff under newly-appointed head coach Stephen Fleming, said the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Monday. Simons, who worked with Fleming for eight years at Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL), and Foster, who served as CSKs fielding coach in IPL 2026, join a Test coaching unit that also includes Marcus Trescothick and Richard Dawson, with their first assignment being the trip to South Africa later this year. Dawson joins as the Elite National Spin Bowling Lead after stepping down from his head coach position at Glamorgan. Our gain is Glamorgan's loss. To go back into county cricket, where often you're not at the most-resourced club in the world, to do what Richard's done has been brilliant, England mens managing director Rob Key was quoted as saying by Cricinfo. Deciding to step up to the national role, Dawson acknowledged the significance of the move. It's a decision I haven't made lightly, and an opportunity I couldn't pass up, Dawson, who previously served as England Lions head coach, England U19s head coach and England Elite Pathways coach, said in a statement by Glamorgan. Foster served as a white-ball consultant coach for England mens team between 2018 and 2022, before working with the New Zealand setup in recent years. He also served as head coach of the Northern Superchargers in The Hundred between 2022-23 and has further experience coaching in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) and Bangladesh Premier League (BPL). Simons, meanwhile, worked as a bowling consultant with the South Africa mens team and was the bowling coach when India won the 2011 Mens ODI World Cup and also served as assistant coach at Joburg Super Kings in the SA20. It also means that CSK will look out for new bowling and fielding coaches for IPL 2027. Under the new structure, Mike Yardy takes over as Elite National Batting Lead alongside Dawson's spin role, and Troy Cooley continues in his existing position as Elite National Pace Bowling Lead. Key highlighted that white-ball cricket remains a major priority ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia. McCullums white-ball set-up for the upcoming tour of Australia will feature former England batter Kevin Pietersen in a specialist mentor role, alongside Jeetan Patel, Tim Southee, and Sarah Taylor. Under the new structure, Mike Yardy takes over as Elite National Batting Lead alongside Dawson's spin role, and Troy Cooley continues in his existing position as Elite National Pace Bowling Lead. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Rahul, Revanth shine as Andhra take lead against Karnataka
Teenager Seeram Rahul's unbeaten century and Revanth Reddy's 97 helped Andhra secure a crucial 57-run first-innings lead over last season's runner-up Karnataka in their Ranji Trophy Group B match.
India Need Cultural Shift To Tackle Fielding Form Slump In Shortest Format, Says R Sridhar
T20 World Cup: Former India senior mens fielding coach R. Sridhar believes the national team urgently requires a complete cultural shift to address a worrying form slump in the shortest format, while adding that the newbies in the team are arriving undercooked in terms of their fielding abilities ahead of their upcoming all-format tour of New Zealand starting on October 22. As per statistical data from Cricket-21 in T20Is in 2026, India's fielding standards have been in decline. India currently ranks second-to-last among the top 10 nations in catching efficiency at 73.4 per cent -- having put down a jaw-dropping 58 catches. While Indian fielders have saved 129 runs, dropped chances and ground-fielding errors have led to 226 runs being leaked, resulting in a net deficit of 97 runs. Furthermore, India leads all teams in missed run-out opportunities with 19, despite effecting 14 of them. Add to it, two missed stumpings out of five chances were recorded by the Indian wicketkeepers. With matches in New Zealand to begin at 8 pm local time, it means fielders will take the field when its biting cold. Let me tell you that. The form is not great. Like you said, the fielding form of the Indian team, not just over the last few matches, but the last few months, it's not been great. We ended up winning the T20 World Cup, but still we were nowhere near being a good fielding unit in that tournament as well. Axar Patel probably just saved us from falling by the wayside in that semifinal. So we need to pick up our act together. I think fielding has now definitely taken a backseat in terms of application and in terms of building a certain culture. As we can see, there is a clear culture with the batting, the way the Indian team is batting. Similarly, there's a clear culture in the way the Indian team is using fast bowlers, especially in the ODIs, where Shubman Gill likes to hit the deck. But whereas in fielding, that seems to be absent, and what is really worrying is the fact that the new kids who are coming into the squad are undercooked in their fielding ability. Some are fast bowlers, some are batters, but whoever is coming in, they don't seem to be the kind of fielder a Kohli is or even a Surya or Shreyas is, the generation of that block, I'm saying, because they seem to have been brought up on only one skill, that is batting, Sridhar told IANS in a select virtual interaction facilitated by Sony Sports Network on Monday. Urging the broader domestic ecosystem to wake up to the issue, Sridhar stressed that the current coaching staff under head coach Gautam Gambhir and fielding coach Subhadeep Ghosh, who took over from T Dilip earlier this year, will need to instil strict standards and accountability in terms of catching and ground fielding. So that's a bit of a worrying factor, but that is not for the Indian team to worry about. That is for the entire ecosystem to wake up and smell the coffee. So there are a lot of things to be done, but the fielding coach will have a job on his hands to train these young guns straightaway into match practice. I think they're going to leave India on the 18th, and land on the 19th and 22nd -- they have a (T20I) game which is very challenging. But modern-day cricket is all about adaptation, isn't it? That is why you are paid top dollar. I am really excited to watch the Indian team to see how they are going to adapt. They may adapt really well in the T20 format, but again, when the red ball comes, that will be a different ball game altogether, he added. Sridhar further noted that unique weather conditions in New Zealand will present an immediate test for the Indian fielding unit. One big factor in New Zealand, as you said, is just early spring. Generally, India tours New Zealand in Jan-Feb, when things are getting a little warmer, as opposed to this time, maybe, one of the rare occasions where we are going in late October and all of November. So I think our fielders will have to adapt. As you know, we've had a very hot October in India this year, thanks to the super El Nio. So there's going to be quite a bit of adaptation there to be done by our fielders, bowlers, and batters, especially when you're playing in cities like Wellington, which can be really, really windy. High catches could always become a challenge. But if you're in Christchurch, the Hagley Oval, it's a lovely, lush green cricket ground. It can get very chilly when, again, all the fielders have to protect their arms with hand warmers and hands in pockets or just warming them up every now and then. But it's not going to be easy, he added. As per Sridhar, building a sustainable fielding culture requires two things: internal standards set by the players themselves and objective tracking metrics. Modern metrics used by the coaching staff include throw speed from the boundary, speed reaching the ball, reaction times on sharp chances, catch conversion, runs saved, and direct-hit percentages. Sridhar also pointed to the blueprint established under former captain Virat Kohli, where every sessions attendance was tracked, and during the 2018 ODI series in South Africa, bowlers were explicitly told that fielding was their secondary skill and that they must view themselves as run-savers and run-out creators for the 40 overs they were not bowling. For India to get back to being a good fielding unit, accountability must once again flow from the top down in the current T20I squad led by Shreyas Iyer. Looking ahead to the long-term build-up for the 2027 ODI World Cup, Sridhar highlighted the game-changing impact of catchers in big tournaments, citing iconic catching moments from Kapil Dev in the 1983 edition final and Suryakumar Yadav in the 2024 T20 World Cup final. You are right. We saw what Surya did in the 2024 T20 World Cup, right? It won us the tournament. We saw the great Kapil Dev do what he did in the 1983 finals. It just didnt win a World Cup - it changed Indian cricket forever, and it changed the cricketing power centre forever. So, that is what catchers can do. Not just win matches, but they can win so many other things. They can win trust for a change. So, India is going to get their act together. Yes, it has not been the best period or the last couple of years in terms of catching. But we still have won World Cups and Champions Trophies. So, we are more than making up for it with our pure skill in batting and bowling. But fielding is definitely under the radar now because things have been happening far too consistently to sweep it under the carpet. All of this means Ghosh has his task cut out for him, and Sridhar trusted him to step up to the challenge. The new fielding coach has got his job cut out. He's got to have clear roles for the fielders. He's got to have more data so that he can have the right fielders in the right positions. He needs to objectivize every match more, and he's got the methods for it. He's a good coach. He's a very hard-working coach, and he's got a lot of knowledge. He's very experienced. So, I think Indian fielding at the minute, like it was in Dilips hands, now it's in Subhadeeps hands, who is also a very capable coach. So, I'm sure along with GG and the other coaching staff, they'll be making clear-cut plans. At the moment, we don't even know what the final World Cup team is. So, at least with certainties, we need to make plans and create cultures which will outlast us, he elaborated. Turning to 15-year-old batting prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Sridhar felt that he needs to be put through a structured schedule to grow as a dependable fielder, rather than be substituted during games. Look, he is 15. So, he is still a kid, right? So, I feel someone there has to really run his program. Although he is in an international elite environment where athletes are aware of what they need to do and how they need to manage their workloads. Someone as young as 15 sometimes needs to be told. Someone there has to make a schedule for Vaibhav Sooryavanshi where he has to feel a lot in practice and make himself ready to field in the match as well because at 15, if you are being subbed out, it's not a great sign. By 18 or 19, you would want Vaibhav to evolve as a very, very good fielder. Somebody has to take Vaibhav and show that he's practicing fielding every day. He can bowl a bit of spin bowling, but we'll save that for later. For now, it is very clear from my part that he has to work very hard on his fielding and someone has to tell him that. Although he is in an international elite environment where athletes are aware of what they need to do and how they need to manage their workloads. Someone as young as 15 sometimes needs to be told. Someone there has to make a schedule for Vaibhav Sooryavanshi where he has to feel a lot in practice and make himself ready to field in the match as well because at 15, if you are being subbed out, it's not a great sign. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Ranji Trophy 2026-27 | Jharkhands Virat and Aditya make merry on a batting paradise
They both score hundreds to take the host to 587 at the end of day two; Kerala seamer Edhen doesnt take the field after getting injured; Vaisakh puts in a shift to scalp five wickets
Ranji: J and K bowled out for 120, MP take 135-run lead
Defending champions Jammu and Kashmir were bowled out for 120, allowing Madhya Pradesh to take a 135-run overall lead on day two of their Ranji Trophy Elite Group A match. Meanwhile, Baroda, Uttar Pradesh, and Vidarbha also established strong positions in their respective matches.
West Indies stars reprimanded by the ICC, handed demerit points after third T20I loss against India
The West Indies succumbed to a hefty loss against the Indian team in the third T20I of the ongoing series. The two sides met at the Holkar International Stadium in Indore on October 11, and...
Ranji Trophy | Aveshand Aryan skittle out J&K for 120 to giveM.P. the edge
The two speedsters maintain a disciplined line and length to scalp three wickets each to help the visitor take 76-run lead; Nabis late strikes helps the champion get a foothold
Ranji Trophy 2026-27 | Denish and Sibsankars centuries propel Assam to 373
The duo rescues the visitor from a precarious 23 for three with a 168-run stand; Sarupam chips in a with a half-century; Umesh scalps five wickets for Punjab
Ranji Trophy: Gharami, Porel tons put Bengal on top
Sudip Kumar Gharami (122 not out) and Abhishek Porel (114 not out) struck unbeaten centuries, forging a 199-run partnership to put Bengal in a commanding position against Delhi in their Ranji Trophy Group C match.
Ranji Trophy: Deshpande's Fifer Puts Mumbai in Control
Fast bowler Tushar Deshpande's impressive five-wicket haul led Mumbai to bowl out Chandigarh for a mere 78 runs in their first innings, forcing a follow-on on the second day of their Ranji Trophy Group D match.
Dictatorship: Gautam Gambhir-Led Management Slammed Over Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's Exclusion
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi failed to find a spot in the playing XI in the first three T20Is of the ongoing five-match series against West Indies.
Powell, Rutherford reprimanded for ICC Code of Conduct breaches
West Indies cricketers Rovman Powell and Sherfane Rutherford have been reprimanded and received one demerit point each for breaching the ICC Code of Conduct during the second T20 International against India.
WPL 2027: Tara Norris Traded To Mumbai Indians From UP Warriorz
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Tara Norris, the left-arm pacer from the USA, has been traded to the Mumbai Indians (MI) from UP Warriorz (UPW) for the upcoming Womens Premier League (WPL) 2027, which will be held from January 14 to February 7, 2027. Tara, who was previously part of MI London, will join the Mumbai Indians for WPL 2027 at her existing fee of Rs 10 Lakh. Mumbai Indians have completed their first-ever trade in the Womens Premier League, bringing USA international and left-arm pacer Tara Norris into the team. Having previously been part of MI London, Norris now joins Mumbai Indians WPL squad, bringing her experience across the global T20 game to the team, MI said in a release. UPW, who finished at the bottom of the WPL 2026 points table, executed a sweeping squad cleanup on the retention deadline day last month by parting ways with international players Deandra Dottin, Chloe Tryon, and Amy Jones, alongside domestic names like Kiran Navgire, Shweta Sehrawat, and India leg-spinner Asha Sobhana. Despite the exits, the franchise has retained an 11-member core that features premier overseas stars in captain Meg Lanning, Phoebe Litchfield, Sophie Ecclestone, and Tara Norris. The retained Indian contingent is headlined by star all-rounder Deepti Sharma, alongside Harleen Deol, Shikha Pandey, Kranti Gaud, Pratika Rawal, Shipra Giri, and Simran Shaikh. The two-time champions said that Norris adds depth and versatility to Mumbai Indians bowling attack as the team builds towards the upcoming WPL 2027 season. Norris made history at the inaugural WPL auction after becoming the first player from the Associate nations to be picked by a franchise. She represented the Delhi Capitals (DC) in the opening season and became the first bowler to register a five-wicket haul in the league. As a left-arm swing bowler, Tara has played for the England Womens Academy, Southern Vipers, Southern Brave, Loughborough Lightning, Sussex, and the USA. The player retention period for the WPL 2027 season officially ended on September 28. Across the five WPL franchises Delhi Capitals (DC), Gujarat Giants (GG), Mumbai Indians (MI), Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and UP Warriorz (UPW) 63 players, including 23 overseas stars, have been retained, ahead of the fifth season of the league. As a left-arm swing bowler, Tara has played for the England Womens Academy, Southern Vipers, Southern Brave, Loughborough Lightning, Sussex, and the USA. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
BCCI denies reports of venue change, India's 1st ODI clash against Sri Lanka to stay in Delhi
The Indian team is all set for a multi-format white-ball series against Sri Lanka. Currently in the midst of a series against the West Indies. The Indian team will be taking on New Zealand across...
Sachin Tendulkar's Sweet Birthday Wish for Daughter Sara
Cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar shared a heartfelt birthday message for his daughter, Sara Tendulkar, who turned 29, expressing pride in her independent path and achievements.
Quintin Sampson: The West Indies Power-Hitter on IPL Radar?
Guyanese batter Quentin Sampson, known for his aggressive power-hitting, is attracting attention from IPL franchises, with Chennai Super Kings reportedly among those watching him ahead of the 2027 auction, following his impressive cameo against India.
Powell, Rutherford Reprimanded For Breaching ICC Code Of Conduct In Second T20I
Emirates ICC International Panel: West Indies players Rovman Powell and Sherfane Rutherford have been handed official reprimands and one demerit point each for breaching the ICC Code of Conduct during the second T20I against India in Ranchi on Friday. Powell was sanctioned for hitting the ball away with his bat after being dismissed, while Rutherford was reprimanded for showing dissent at an umpires decision during the match. According to the ICC, Powell was found to have breached Article 2.2 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which relates to the abuse of cricket equipment or clothing, ground equipment or fixtures and fittings during an International Match. The incident occurred in the sixth over of the West Indies innings after Powell was bowled by India pacer Mayank Yadav. Rutherford, meanwhile, breached Article 2.8, which relates to showing dissent at an Umpires decision during an International Match. His offence took place in the 13th over when he yelled aggressively at the umpire after a delivery he believed was wide was ruled legitimate. Both players admitted their respective offences and accepted the sanctions proposed by Prakash Bhatt of the Emirates ICC International Panel of Match Referees, eliminating the need for formal hearings. The ICC also confirmed that one demerit point had been added to the disciplinary records of both players. It was the first offence for each within a 24-month period. Talking about the match, skipper Shai Hope smashed a blistering 45-ball century before Sherfane Rutherford hammered 84 off 37 deliveries as the West Indies pulled off a sensational six-wicket victory over India in the second T20I, chasing down a daunting target of 250 to register the second-highest successful run chase in men's T20I cricket. The ICC also confirmed that one demerit point had been added to the disciplinary records of both players. It was the first offence for each within a 24-month period. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Sorry, Axar Bhai: Arshdeep Singh's Honest Apology After India's Win vs West Indies In Third T20I
I would like to apologize to Axar bhai. Sorry, Axar bhai, said Arshdeep Singh after the third T20I against West Indies.
1st Test: Renshaw leads Australia as SA face tough chase
Australia extended their lead over South Africa to 280 runs by lunch on the fourth day of the first test, reaching 174-4. Despite losing four key wickets, including Travis Head, Nic Maddinson, Steve Smith, and Marnus Labuschagne, Australia is aiming for a declaration after pushing their lead past 350 to give themselves enough time to bowl out South Africa.
R Ashwin's Brutally Honest Take On Vaibhav Sooryavanshi vs Sanju Samson Battle
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi continues to warm the bench for India in T20Is, as Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson are preferred.
Not Accurate: BCCI Denies Reports Of India vs Sri Lanka ODI Venue Shift From Delhi To Ahmedabad
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Secretary Devajit Saikia dismissed reports claiming that the opening ODI between India and Sri Lanka, scheduled for December 13 in Delhi, had been shifted to Ahmedabad amid concerns over ongoing construction work at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.
Reports Suggesting India-Sri Lanka ODI Shifting From New Delhi To Ahmedabad Inaccurate: Saikia
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia: BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia on Monday denied reports claiming that the first ODI between India and Sri Lanka, originally scheduled to be held in the national capital on December 13, has been moved to Ahmedabad. The clarification comes amid reports regarding the non-availability of the Arun Jaitley Stadium, where the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) is currently undertaking major infrastructure overhauls, including the installation of a modern drainage system along with the relaying of pitches and outfield. Reports suggesting that the IndiaSri Lanka ODI match scheduled in Delhi may be shifted to Ahmedabad are not accurate. There has been no such decision (taken) by the BCCI. We request media colleagues to kindly refer to official BCCI communications for any updates regarding the schedule. Further, it needs to be reiterated that bilateral matches are primarily allotted by following a standard policy, said Saikia in a statement on Monday. IANS had previously reported on September 25 that the major overhaul of the drainage system at the stadium had led to Delhis home games in Elite Group C of the Ranji Trophy 2026/27 being shifted to the Air Force Ground in Palam. Interestingly, the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad is already scheduled to host the third India-Sri Lanka ODI on December 19, after the second game takes place at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on December 16. The ODI matches are of immense importance to India, the two-time champions, in terms of building up and fine-tuning their combinations for the 2027 Mens ODI World Cup, to be played in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia. Interestingly, the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad is already scheduled to host the third India-Sri Lanka ODI on December 19, after the second game takes place at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on December 16. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Watched Virat Kohli On YouTube: Australia A Star's Secret To Dominating India A
Nathan McSweeney says observing and learning from Virat Kohli's handling of spinners through Youtube videos was one of the major reasons why he succeeded in the just-concluded three-match one-day series against India A.
England Fast Bowler Lauren Bell Returns To Sydney Thunder For Full WBBL Season 12
Big Bash League: England fast bowler Lauren Bell has signed up with Sydney Thunder for the upcoming season of the Womens Big Bash League (WBLL). It will also mark Laurens second stint in the premier womens franchise T20 tournament. Lauren, who sits in the top five of the ICC T20I bowling rankings, will be available for the entire duration of the tournament, joining her former England captain Heather Knight in the Thunder setup. Lauren, who has taken 88 matches across all formats for England, arrives on the back of impressive global performances, including a seven-wicket haul in the 2026 T20 World Cup, a stellar 19-wicket campaign for Southern Brave in The Hundred, and a 12-wicket season with Womens Premier League (WPL) 2026 winners Royal Challengers Bengaluru. I love Sydney, I love the group and weve got some exciting new additions since I was last here so I cant wait to get going with the girls. The WBBL has the best talent in the world, and as a cricketer thats how I believe I will get better... playing and challenging myself against the best in the world. Ive obviously played against Phoebe (Litchfield) many times and we seem to have pretty good battles but it will be nice to have her on my side now and watch her score runs. Volly (Georgia Voll) is super fun and talented and I was lucky enough to play with her in India and I cant wait to do it again in Sydney, she said in a statement by the franchise on Monday. Reflecting on her growth since her previous stint with the franchise in WBBL season nine, Lauren added, Playing for England has certainly helped me understand my own game and my experience within cricket has grown since I was last with Thunder. I hope I can bring that winning mentality to this group. Welcoming the star bowler back into the squad, Sydney Thunder head coach Lisa Keightley praised Laurens versatility and wicket-taking ability across different phases of the game. Lauren is a world-class bowler and someone were really excited to have back at the Thunder this season. Weve seen what she can do at the highest level. She has the ability to take wickets with the new ball, but what really stands out is how she can impact a game at different stages of an innings. She brings a lot of experience to our group, but shes also still only 25 and continuing to develop her game. Welcoming the star bowler back into the squad, Sydney Thunder head coach Lisa Keightley praised Laurens versatility and wicket-taking ability across different phases of the game. Lauren is a world-class bowler and someone were really excited to have back at the Thunder this season. Weve seen what she can do at the highest level. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
How Naman Dhir used a batter's mind to outfox Pooran
India's spin-bowling all-rounder Naman Dhir discusses how his experience as a batter enhances his ability to read opponents while bowling. He elaborates on his strategy for dismissing Kamil Pooran in the recent T20I match against West Indies and outlines his role as a batting all-rounder in the Indian team, emphasising his reliance on line, length, and pace variations.
Is Vaibhav Sooryvanshi's exclusion from India's T20I squad justified? Former cricketer opines
The stage is set for the fourth T20I of the ongoing series between India and the West Indies. The two sides are slated to meet at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad for the...
How Virat Kohli's videos helped Australia's McSweeney
Australia 'A' batter Nathan McSweeney attributed his success in the recent one-day series against India A to studying Virat Kohli's technique against spinners on YouTube. McSweeney was named player of the series after scoring 194 runs, helping Australia A win the series 2-1. He highlighted the importance of adapting to Indian conditions and executing strategies learned from top players.
Will Delhi lose India-Sri Lanka ODI? BCCI responds
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia has denied reports claiming the opening ODI between India and Sri Lanka, scheduled for December 13, has been moved from Delhi to Ahmedabad. Saikia confirmed that Delhi remains the venue as per standard policy, refuting suggestions of a shift due to construction work at Arun Jaitley Stadium.
Sachin, Yuvraj, Gambhir, Zaheer Know Why They Had To Leave The Team: Sandeep Patil
The Great Indian Cricket Show: Former India cricketer and ex-chief selector Sandeep Patil has stated that iconic cricketers like Sachin Tendulkar, Yuvraj Singh, Gautam Gambhir, and Zaheer Khan know the reasons' why they were phased out of the national side, adding that his selection committee had to put the future of Indian cricket ahead of personal relationships. Patil, a member of Indias 1983 ODI World Cup-winning team, headed the five-member senior mens selection committee during a critical transition phase from 2012 to 2016. First of all, I want to make it clear: I wasnt the only one making these decisions. There was a selection panel of five, and I was its chairman. Whatever decisions we made, we made with the future of Indian cricket in mind. It feels very bad to bring this up today, but legends as great as Sachin Tendulkar, Gautam Gambhir, Yuvraj Singh, and Zaheer Khan had to leave the team or retire. They know the reasons. Our job as selectors was to put the interests of the country, the BCCI, and Indian cricket first, Patil, currently the mentor of Mumbais senior and age-group mens teams, said in an appearance on 'The Great Indian Cricket Show' on Doordarshan. The tenure of Patils committee coincided with a major overhaul following the 2011 Mens ODI World Cup triumph, as several veteran stalwarts made way for younger talent across formats. Patil, who was the former head of the National Cricket Academy (NCA), now known as the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE), further said about the professional boundaries selectors must maintain with players as they had to take decisions that impacted long-term friendships. You can be friends with players, but there has to be a line. You cant say, He is my friend, so I will pick him for the team. When you are given this responsibility, you have to take it seriously. Patil, who was the former head of the National Cricket Academy (NCA), now known as the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE), further said about the professional boundaries selectors must maintain with players as they had to take decisions that impacted long-term friendships. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
We Had Planned How To Keep Things Tight To Hope: Arshdeep
Arshdeep Singh: Indias left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh said he felt really good over the successful execution of tactics to remove West Indies captain Shai Hope early in the third T20I against the West Indies, adding that getting rid of a quality batter of his calibre required meticulous preparation and inputs from the coaching staff. At the Holkar Stadium on Sunday night, Arshdeep made the early breakthrough by castling the in-form Shai Hope, who went for a wild slog, in the second over. The contest stayed alive till the dangerous Sherfane Rutherford was at the crease. But Arshdeep castled him, and took out Keemo Paul as well to ensure the contest ended in Indias favour, as they won by 14 runs and grabbed a 2-1 lead in the five-match series. Before the match, we had planned how to keep things tight to him and when you execute that plan in the match, it feels good when you get the result. I am grateful to the coaches for working through the plan and they told me that I can use this in the match and that thing got executed, Arshdeep said in a video posted on bcci.tv. on Monday. He also credited the entire bowling attack for applying sustained pressure while defending a big total of 223. I bowled very well. Mayank kept the pressure from the other end and all the six bowlers, all chipped in and bowled very well. It feels good when you get a little pressure for executing plans. So, it's good fun. Arshdeep, who also hit a useful boundary with the bat, offered a light-hearted apology to teammate Axar Patel after a mid-pitch mix-up led to the left-arm spin bowling all-rounder's run-out. I would like to apologize to Axar bhai. Sorry, Axar bhai. I got you run out. Revealing about his personal drive to contribute with the bat, Arshdeep said, I keep trying in batting. The results are rare. But today, it just connected well. As much as the coaches trust us, we have to do it in batting as well and get a few runs down the order. So it is important to work like this in batting. Arshdeep also attributed his steady evolution at the international level to the welcoming culture inside the Indian team and the desire to improve his skillsets. In the dressing room, the environment is very chill. There is no one who behaves as if they have played more or less matches. The atmosphere is very chill. Revealing about his personal drive to contribute with the bat, Arshdeep said, I keep trying in batting. The results are rare. But today, it just connected well. As much as the coaches trust us, we have to do it in batting as well and get a few runs down the order. So it is important to work like this in batting. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Dinesh Karthik heaped praise on star opener Abhishek Sharma for consistently churning out runs in different conditions and against different bowling attacks.
Pakistan Cricket Board Shifts Presidents Trophy Matches Amid Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Emergency
Amid political turmoil over Pakistan's federal government's announcement of an emergency in Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)-led Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
There Is Nothing Better, Says Naman Dhir After 3rd T20I Heroics
Naman Dhir has explained how reading a batter's intentions helps him make decisions with the ball, after his two-wicket contribution proved crucial in India's 14-run victory over the West Indies
IND vs WI 3rd T20I: India Deserved This Win From A Bowling Perspective, Says Ian Bishop
Former West Indies: Former West Indies pacer Ian Bishop praised Indias bowling execution and Abhishek Sharmas tactical awareness after the hosts secured a 14-run victory over West Indies in the third T20I at the Holkar Stadium in Indore on Sunday, taking a 2-1 lead in the five-match series. Bishop highlighted Indias use of yorkers and wide lines, with Arshdeep Singh leading the attack and Naman Dhir providing valuable support. He also pointed to the absence of dew as a factor that helped the bowlers execute their plans. First of all, congratulations to India. The West Indies found a little bit of range with the ball after about over number eight through Roston Chase, then Springer, then Motie, but those runs at the back end by Prince Yadav proved crucial. Then we saw the yorkers. Shreyas Iyer mentioned at the toss that he brought Prince Yadav back into the team for the first time in the series so they could get guys bowling those yorkers and wide lines, and those are critical plans. Arshdeep is the leader of the attack, and he sussed things out quite quickly, with a little bit of help from Naman Dhir. A critical factor, obviously, was that there was no dew formation. All in all, its good to see the bowlers having a better day in a batsman-dominated series so far. The West Indies will look to do a few things better next time, but take nothing away from India; they deserved this win from a bowling perspective, Bishop told JioStar. Bishop also singled out Abhishek Sharma for adapting his approach against West Indies spinner Roston Chase. Rather than attacking immediately, the Indian opener took time to assess the conditions and read the bowler before adjusting his shot selection to exploit gaps in the field. It was not only about the respect that Roston Chase deserved after dismissing Abhishek a couple of times earlier in the series, but also the fact that Abhishek needed to get himself in, take a few balls to get a feel for what Roston was doing and understand the conditions. We live and play in an era where we talk a lot about going hard up front from very early on, especially when youre batting first. Bishop also singled out Abhishek Sharma for adapting his approach against West Indies spinner Roston Chase. Rather than attacking immediately, the Indian opener took time to assess the conditions and read the bowler before adjusting his shot selection to exploit gaps in the field. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Sunil Gavaskar Unhappy As BCCI Decision Sees Ranji Trophy Being Ignored Yet Again
The 1983 World Cup winner Sunil Gavaskar is not really fond of India A matches being held alongside Ranji Trophy.
New Delhi: Former Indian cricketer Dinesh Karthik heaped praise on star opener Abhishek Sharma for consistently churning out runs in different conditions and against different bowling attacks as he has blossomed into a world superpower opener. Abhishek smashed 69 from 30 balls during the third T20I against the West Indies on Sunday at the Holkar Stadium, Indore, to lay the foundation for India making 223 in the end. During the outing, he also completed his 2000 T20I runs and became the fastest batter to get to the milestone in terms of balls taken. Abhishek, who has been guided by legendary Yuvraj Singh, has runs across nations and across opponents, making him a batter which the teams target early. Speaking on Abhishek's rise, Karthik praised the consistency of the batter and hailed him for becoming a 'world superpower opener'. He's guided by someone who's shown for a long, long time how efficient you can be, even though he's someone who is so good with striking a cricket ball. Abhishek Sharma is learning from the best, and you can see how he's able to pace in innings, Karthik said on Crucbuzz, referring to Abhishek learning from Yuvraj. He knows the powerplay is an area where you need to try and hit as many boundaries as possible. And he's found a method in which he's able to be successful. And across pitches, across destinations in the world, he's able to go out there and constantly put the bowlers under pressure. Now, when you see somebody like Abhishek Sharma walking in as a team, you fear it, you know, that's the wicket we need early. Because if you don't get that early, it's going for runs. So I've enjoyed how he's blossomed into this world superpower as an opener, Karthik added. The former India cricketer and RCB batting coach highlighted that the opener is able to get runs against big opponents and in big matches consistently, which has made him to be rated among the best. But what is even more rewarding for someone like Abhishek Sharma is the fact that he's able to churn those runs against big opposition, big games and also bring consistency to it, which is probably the toughest aspect up until now for good T20 cricketers: how do you bring that attacking instinct out there every day, but also be willing to take risks and almost score every two or three games. And he's doing it. That's why he's rated as one of the best players in the world, he said. Karthik also highlighted that Abhishek took his time against off-spinner Roston Chase earlier in the innings before going all guns blazing. He is quite the destructive batter. But what he's also added is a little bit of nous. If you see the way he played Roston Chase, the name that you just said, first couple of balls, he just knocked it and just tried to say, okay, what's the pitch doing? And then he went bang bang. But what is even more rewarding for someone like Abhishek Sharma is the fact that he's able to churn those runs against big opposition, big games and also bring consistency to it, which is probably the toughest aspect up until now for good T20 cricketers: how do you bring that attacking instinct out there every day, but also be willing to take risks and almost score every two or three games. And he's doing it. That's why he's rated as one of the best players in the world, he said. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Dinesh Karthik breaks down Nitish Kumar Reddy's role in the Indian team after third T20I victory
Team India registered a brilliant victory as they defeated the West Indies in the third T20I of the ongoing series. The two sides met in Indore for the clash on October 11, and the Men...
'They stifled us': Springer on India's 14-run win
West Indies all-rounder Shamar Springer discussed his team's Plan B to contain India's Abhishek Sharma, who scored a rapid 69 runs, leading India to a 14-run victory in the third T20I. Springer acknowledged Sharma's world-class performance and the difficulty of bowling on good wickets. He also reflected on the West Indies' chase, noting missed opportunities and the impact of the pitch conditions, while praising Roston Chase's underrated bowling.
Lack Of Dew And Indian Bowlers Execution Made The Difference In Indore, Says Shamar Springer
West Indies: West Indies all-rounder Shamar Springer said that the lack of dew and disciplined bowling by Indias bowlers on a low-bounce pitch were the difference as the visitors lost by 14 runs in the third T20I held at the Holkar Stadium on Sunday night. Chasing 224, the West Indies scored only 209/7, though Springer made an unbeaten 35, including hitting Axar Patel for three fours and a six in the final over. I thought the Indian boys executed really well today in the middle, kind of stifled us and eventually left us with too many runs at the end. We thought the wicket would play a little better. The ball was keeping a little lower than we anticipated. We also thought there might be some dew in the second innings, but there wasnt really that much dew. And as I said, the nature of the wicket was a little low (and) the Indian bowlers used the wicket a lot better than us, said Springer in the post-game press conference. India had earlier posted a formidable 223, thanks mainly to Abhishek Sharmas 69 off 30 balls and his 108-run stand for the second wicket with Ishan Kishan (37 off 18 balls). He's a world-class player. Kudos to him, for sure. But I guess our Plan B was to just be as defensive as possible and try to make him get singles and twos rather than boundaries. Nothing too extravagant. It was just a matter of trying to pull him back and be as defensive as possible. That was really it. Because there's not much control you could really have here. I mean, the wickets are so good and those players are world-class players. They're the best for a reason. So, there's not really much you could really do besides be defensive, added Springer. Abhisheks innings got off to a cautious start against off-spinner Roston Chase, who accounted for the left-handed opener in the first two T20Is. Springer praised Chases contribution, saying he had been an unsung hero in the Caribbean setup for the past two years. It was just a matter of trying to pull him back and be as defensive as possible. That was really it. Because there's not much control you could really have here. I mean, the wickets are so good and those players are world-class players. They're the best for a reason. So, there's not really much you could really do besides be defensive, added Springer. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Lack of dew and Indian bowlers execution made the difference in Indore, says Springer
Digital Desk | Indore, Oct 12 (IANS) West Indies all-rounder Shamar Springer said that the lack of dew and disciplined bowling by Indias bowlers on a low-bounce pitch were the difference as the visitors lost by 14 runs in the third T20I held at the Holkar Stadium on Sunday night. Chasing 224, the West Indies scored only 209/7, though Springer made an unbeaten 35, including hitting Axar Patel for three fours and a six in the final over. I thought the Indian boys executed really well today in the middle, kind of stifled us and eventually left us with too many runs at the end. We thought the wicket would play a little better. The ball was keeping a little lower than we anticipated. We also thought there might be some dew in the second innings, but there wasnt really that much dew. And as I said, the nature of the wicket was a little low (and) the Indian bowlers used the wicket a lot better than us, said Springer in the post-game press conference. India had earlier posted a formidable 223, thanks mainly to Abhishek Sharmas 69 off 30 balls and his 108-run stand for the second wicket with Ishan Kishan (37 off 18 balls). He's a world-class player. Kudos to him, for sure. But I guess our Plan B was to just be as defensive as possible and try to make him get singles and twos rather than boundaries. Nothing too extravagant. It was just a matter of trying to pull him back and be as defensive as possible. That was really it. Because there's not much control you could really have here. I mean, the wickets are so good and those players are world-class players. They're the best for a reason. So, there's not really much you could really do besides be defensive, added Springer. Abhisheks innings got off to a cautious start against off-spinner Roston Chase, who accounted for the left-handed opener in the first two T20Is. Springer praised Chases contribution, saying he had been an unsung hero in the Caribbean setup for the past two years. Hes been underrated so far, but in our dressing room, we really appreciate what he brings to the table. He brings that control and calmness to our team. Hes the X-factor so far, he concluded.
Prince Yadav Reveals He Played With Abhishek Sharma's Bat During Crucial Indore Cameo
Captain Shreyas Iyer: India fast bowler Prince Yadav revealed he used star opener Abhishek Sharma's bat while scoring a crucial cameo against the West Indies in the third T20I at the Holkar Stadium here. Prince made 13 runs off six balls and hit three fours in the final over off Shamar Joseph to help the Men in Blue finish at 223 in 20 overs, after Arshdeep Singh also hit 11 off eight. Prince also bowled a couple of tough overs in the death overs and kept his two overs to 20 runs, while the Windies needed much more with the asking rate climbing past 15. As India won the game by 14 runs in the end, Prince spoke about his cameo, revealing that Abhishek had given him the bat with which he hit those three fours. Obviously, brother, it is great to contribute to the team, whether it's with the ball, bat, or in the fielding. So, I am feeling good. So, Abhi bhaiya gave me his bat earlier and said, 'don't embarrass the bat'. So, I kept its honour, Prince told bcci.tv in a chat with Abhishek after the game. Meanwhile, Abhishek also heaped praise on Prince for his capabilities to hit crucial runs in the end. I've seen his batting; if anyone hasn't seen it, he's famous in Delhi for 'single phatti'. Single phatti means one-on-one matches. In that, you have to both bat and bowl. So he has that talent to hit sixes and fours. We saw a bit of it today, and we'll see more in future. As for the bat, well...you need power too, Abhishek said. Prince stated that he had batted with Abhishek's bat in Ireland too, where he had hit a six and vowed to play with the opener's willow in the future too. I played with Abhi bhaiya's bat in England too (Ireland), Prince said, before Abhishek quipped, he hit a six there. Prince continued, Yeah, I hit a six in Ireland too and here as well. So, I will take bhaiya's bat the next time too. Abhishek replied, Granted, as Prince then thanked the star batter for the bat. Prince stated that he had batted with Abhishek's bat in Ireland too, where he had hit a six and vowed to play with the opener's willow in the future too. I played with Abhi bhaiya's bat in England too (Ireland), Prince said, before Abhishek quipped, he hit a six there. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Gave Respect To Chase Before Launching Boundaries In Power-play: Abhishek Sharma
Abhishek Sharma: Indias left-handed opener Abhishek Sharma revealed that his uncharacteristic cautious start against off-spinner Roston Chase was a calculated move to counter tactical plans of the West Indies before he unleashed his trademark attacking strokes in the power-play in the third T20I at the Holkar Stadium. Abhishek led the charge with a blazing 30-ball 69, including reaching his fifty in 18 balls. It stood in stark contrast to the start India had only 11 runs coming in the first two overs and losing Sanju Samson early. That effort helped India post 223 and edge the West Indies by 14 runs to take a 2-1 lead in the five-game series. It was there in my mind that they had a plan against me. Obviously, an offspinner (Roston Chase) bowled in the first over. So it was just a battle between him and me. I gave him respect in the first over because I think he's bowling really well in this series. So it's just that the plan went pretty well for me as well, because in the Powerplay only, I was trying to just get a few runs. They had a plan for me, and I had to play better than that, said Abhishek in the post-game press conference. Midway through the third over, Abhishek shifted gears, creaming a drive-through cover-point before lofting Chase for consecutive sixes and that opened the doors for him to hit his 14th T20I fifty. Commenting on his rapport with Ishan Kishan, who contributed a brisk 18-ball 3, Abhishek said they just look to compliment each other. I have to make him (Kishan) laugh, I have to relax him a little. Because he likes to be in that zone when he comes to bat. But I feel like there is a bonding between the two of us. We have had so many partnerships, even in the IPL as well. So, we understand each other pretty well. Obviously Ishan comes in when a wicket is down, in the first three, four balls, or in the first two balls, (there is) that little pressure (and) I just always want him to be released from that and just play the way he always plays. And I think like he did last year or sowe don't talk much about the conditions and everything when we are out there. We just enjoy each other's batting, and just complement each other, he added. Reflecting on the team's mindset during the defence of 223, Abhishek conceded that the side was committed to maintaining pressure despite a late resurgence of the visitors innings. West Indies is such a team; you can never say that the match has come to us against them. This was also in our mind, because we saw in the last match that the batters who come, the conditions here, it is very easy for them to take a match (away) from anywhere. So it was in our minds; when we were playing, we were talking about this in the huddle that we will be ruthless, we will not leave, and we will not give a single chance for a comeback. If you have seen as well, the way (Shamar) Springer batted, we were really surprised (by) the way he played those shots. They werent easy shots. West Indies is such a team; you can never say that the match has come to us against them. This was also in our mind, because we saw in the last match that the batters who come, the conditions here, it is very easy for them to take a match (away) from anywhere. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Team India got back to winning ways as they defeated the West Indies in the third T20I of the ongoing series. The two sides met at the Holkar International Stadium in Indore on October 11,...
There is nothing better than taking a wicket, says Dhir after 3rd T20I heroics
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 12 (IANS) India all-rounder Naman Dhir has explained how reading a batter's intentions helps him make decisions with the ball, after his two-wicket contribution proved crucial in Indias 14-run victory over the West Indies in the third T20I at the Holkar Stadium in Indore on Sunday, giving the hosts a 2-1 lead in the five-match series. Dhir, who dismissed Shimron Hetmyer and Kamil Pooran during the West Indies chase of 224, said his approach as an off-spinner centres on controlling his line and length, changing his pace and identifying the shots a batter is preparing to play. He also believes his experience as a batter offers him an additional perspective when he takes the ball. As an off-spinner, I dont have too many variations, so I have to rely on my line and length and vary my pace. That has always been my thinking. As they say that in T20 cricket, an attacking option can also be a defensive option because there is nothing better than taking a wicket. It helps being a batter because you understand the batters stance, where his backlift is coming from, his guard and the kind of shots he can play. I keep observing these things when I bowl, Dhir told JioStar. The Indian all-rounder explained that the dismissal was the result of assessing the situation rather than deliberately allowing the batter to attack before setting him up for a wicket. I didnt plan to concede three sixes and then take a wicket. For instance, when Kamil Pooran was batting, he was looking to play every shot towards the leg side and get room to free his arms, so I wanted to cramp him for room. I made a couple of errors in the first two deliveries. I knew I was bowling my third over, the batter was set, and with the run rate being high, he was bound to take a chance. And, ultimately, he got out playing exactly the kind of shot I wanted him to, getting caught at square-leg. So, these little things help me a lot, and as a bowler, I keep looking for such small details, he added. Beyond his bowling, Dhir also clarified the responsibilities assigned to him within the Indian setup, identifying himself primarily as a batting all-rounder. He said the team management expects him to provide flexibility in the lower middle order while contributing with the ball when required. I am a batting all-rounder. I got an opportunity to bat in this game, but I am a bit disappointed that I couldnt capitalise on it. However, its not as if I dont bowl. The Impact Player rule in the IPL means I get fewer opportunities to bowl there, but I have been bowling ever since I started playing cricket, and I really enjoy it. As far as my role is concerned, I have been told by the coaches and captain that I will bat at number six or seven, depending on the situation, so that role is flexible. With the ball, my responsibility is to bowl two or three overs economically whenever the team needs me, Dhir stated. Despite his contribution in Indore, Dhir is not setting himself specific targets for the immediate future. The all-rounder said he prefers to concentrate on playing his cricket and enjoying the game instead of mapping out ambitions too far in advance. I dont function that way, by looking too far ahead. I dont have any specific goals as of now. Im just playing my cricket, enjoying it, and wherever God takes me, Ill go, he concluded.
Indore T20I: 13 Runs From Prince Yadav That Proved Crucial
India captain Shreyas Iyer credited Prince Yadav's 13-run cameo and other lower-order contributions for providing a crucial cushion in their 14-run victory over the West Indies in the third T20I.
ACB hopeful to revive APL; few Indian parties interested in acquiring franchises
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 12 (IANS) The Afghanistan Cricket Board is confident of reviving the Afghanistan Premier League, with the board confirming that five parties remain interested in acquiring the two remaining franchise spots in the league. The APL was first held in 2018 but halted after the inaugural edition, with the second edition being postponed following the ACB scrapping the league's sanction. The ACB is confident of reviving the league and that one party from Afghanistan and a few from India and other markets remain interested in acquiring the franchises. The ACB has zeroed in on three owners as they look to hold the league in the UAE, with options of moving the tournament to other locations in future. In the first edition, Balkh Legends, Kabul Zwanan, Kandahar Knights, Nangarhar Leopards and Paktia Panthers featured, with Balkh Legends winning it. ACB chief executive Naseeb Khan stated that the ACB is committed to staging the league. The Afghanistan Cricket Board remains fully committed to delivering the APL as planned. As everyone is aware, the league is being revived after a considerable period, and we have therefore taken a careful and strategic approach to selecting our commercial partner and franchisees, Naseeb said as quoted by Cricbuzz. ACB, together with our commercial partner, is in close communication with these parties, and we are working to finalise the remaining two franchise agreements as soon as possible. It is important to highlight that the commercial partners and franchisees are among the most important stakeholders of the league and are expected to remain involved for the long term. Therefore our priority is not simply to fill the remaining positions quickly, but to ensure that we select credible, financially capable and experienced partners who can contribute to the sustainable growth of the APL, he added. He added that the draft will take place in the last week of October, with the league set to commence on December 27. I would like to make it clear that the APL is firmly scheduled for this year with five teams. The player draft is scheduled for the last week of October, and the league will officially commence on 27 December 2026. The response from players has also been very encouraging, with around 1,500 players registered, including a number of top international players from around the world, Naseeb added. A specific committee is currently working on the screening and assessment of registered players in line with the approved criteria. A pool of Afghan coaches has also been assigned and will be presented for the draft in the coming days. The remaining coaching staff and team captains will likewise be selected based on the approved criteria and the requirements of each franchise which will be available for the draft, he said. He is also hopeful that the England players would participate in the tournament, despite England not playing a bilateral series against Afghanistan due to the Taliban government's treatment of women. A report in Cricinfo had earlier stated that the ECB will be granting the No-Objection Certificates to the players to feature in the league. ACB highly values its relationship with all our fellow cricket boards, including the England and Wales Cricket Board, and we remain committed to maintaining a positive, respectful and cooperative relationship with them, Naseeb said. Our understanding is that the continued growth of cricket depends on strong cooperation among cricket boards, particularly in facilitating player participation in different forms of cricket, including franchise leagues around the world, subject to the respective boards policies, schedules and contractual considerations, Naseeb said. ACB has always supported and facilitated the participation of our players in England, various leagues and competitions, and we look forward to the same spirit of cooperation for the APL. We are confident that this mutual understanding and support will continue to benefit the players, the respective boards and the long-term development of cricket globally, he added.
South Africa vs Australia 1st Test Day 4: Live Cricket Score And Updates
South Africa vs Australia, 1st Test Day 4 Live Cricket Score: Australia start Day 4 with a 139-run lead over South Africa in the first Test.
What Hardik's Girlfriend Revealed on His 33rd Birthday
Mahieka Sharma penned a heartfelt note for Hardik Pandya's 33rd birthday, detailing his journey from a struggling young cricketer in Baroda to one of India's leading all-rounders, highlighting his early struggles, unexpected turn to bowling, and unwavering work ethic.
The Indian team registered a brilliant victory as they took on the West Indies in the third T20I of the ongoing series. The two sides met at the Holkar International Stadium in Indore on October...
Shamar Springer said his team's Plan B was to be as defensive as possible against on-song India opener Abhishek Sharma but his early onslaught gave the home team enough cushion to stifle the visitors for a 14-run win in the third T20 International.
Australia To Wear Special Kit For Next Month's 150th Anniversary Test At MCG
Aunty Fiona Clarke: Australia will wear a one-off special edition of their Test whites featuring green and gold for the 150th Anniversary Test against England at the MCG next March. CA revealed the special kit on Monday to coincide with 150 days to go until the Test begins on March 11. The special kit replaces the golden wattle trimmings with gold, while a green placket has been introduced. It also features the anniversary Test logo in gold on the sleeve, as well as the logo of kit manufacturer Asics. The golden trim will adorn the collar and piping along the side seams of the shirt and pants, as well as gold buttons. The kit is otherwise unchanged from the version worn by Australia's men in Tests since release in the 2025-26 summer, with Indigenous artwork from renowned Aboriginal artist Aunty Fiona Clarke featured on the shoulders. As per cricket.com.au the artwork, titled 'Land & Sea,' incorporates the Walkabout Wickets motif and is an extension of the tribute to Australia's first-ever touring cricket team, the 1868 Aboriginal XI that travelled to England. All public tickets have been sold for the first three days of the 150th Anniversary Test to be played as a day-night match with the pink ball. The 150th Anniversary Test to be played as a day-night match with the pink ball has been sold out for the first three days of the match. Australian players have a crowded schedule for Pat Cummins' men that has them playing up to 21 Tests in a 12-month period that began in August. The 150th Anniversary Test to be played as a day-night match with the pink ball has been sold out for the first three days of the match. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
PCB Relocates Presidents Trophy Games Amid Political Unrest In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has overhauled the schedule of the ongoing Presidents Trophy Grade 1 tournament, shifting fixtures away from Peshawar and Abbottabad after political instability in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa prompted Pakistans federal government to declare a state of emergency and impose governors rule in the province. The changes affect matches scheduled at Imran Khan Stadium in Peshawar and Abbottabad Cricket Stadium, with the PCB moving the fixtures to venues in Sheikhupura and Lahore. Games scheduled in Islamabad and Rawalpindi will proceed as planned, with the sixth round of the competition set to begin on Monday, As per the revised schedule, the match between Ghani and Hyderabad Kingsmen Academy will be played at Rana Naveed Academy in Sheikhupura from October 14. The fixture featuring Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL) and Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL) has been shifted to the LCCA Ground in Lahore, located next to Gaddafi Stadium, and will also begin on October 14, Cricinfo reports. The venue changes come with the tournament entering a decisive phase, as the ongoing round is the penultimate stage of the league competition. As per the report, Lahores LCCA Ground will also stage the final-round encounter between Markhor IT Solutions and Pakistan TV. In Islamabad, the National Cricket Ground will host the Hyderabad Kingsmen Academy versus State Bank of Pakistan fixture in the last round, alongside the Diamond Club ground, which is also being used for the citys matches. The final round has been pushed back by a day and will now commence on October 19, altering the closing schedule of the round-robin league. All eight participating teams face each other once, with the two sides finishing highest in the standings advancing to the final. The PCB has yet to announce the venue for the title decider. The disruption comes at a time when the board has been attempting to broaden the reach of domestic cricket beyond its traditional centres. Abbottabad has regularly hosted first-class matches, while Peshawars Imran Khan Stadium returned to the senior mens domestic calendar last season after nearly seven years away, staging nine Quaid-e-Azam Trophy fixtures following extensive renovation work. The final round has been pushed back by a day and will now commence on October 19, altering the closing schedule of the round-robin league. All eight participating teams face each other once, with the two sides finishing highest in the standings advancing to the final. The PCB has yet to announce the venue for the title decider. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Why Abhishek Sharma Wants Ishan Kishan to Laugh More
Abhishek Sharma's explosive 69 runs off 30 balls propelled India to a 14-run victory against the West Indies in the third T20I, giving them a 2-1 lead in the five-match series. Sharma also discussed his batting partnership with Ishan Kishan and the importance of preparation.
