Aditya Birla Group Madhya Pradesh: A dominant all-round performance helped Gwalior Cheetahs register a convincing 51-run victory over Malwa Stallions in the Madhya Pradesh League (MPL) T20 Scindia Cup 2026 at the Daly College Ground in Indore on Saturday. Batting first after being put in, Gwalior Cheetahs posted a competitive 190/7 in 20 overs, thanks largely to a brilliant knock from captain Rajat Patidar, who smashed his first fifty in Madhya Pradesh League eventually hit 65 off just 30 balls, including six fours and four sixes. Rajat Patidar's aggressive innings provided the momentum the Cheetahs needed in the middle overs. Opener Parth Chaudhary contributed a valuable 38 off 34 deliveries, while Mangesh Yadav remained unbeaten on 33 off 17 balls, ensuring a strong finish. The Stallions bowlers struggled to contain the flow of runs despite regular breakthroughs. Vineet Rawat was the pick of the bowlers, claiming four wickets, while Harshvardhan Singh chipped in with three scalps. Chasing 191 for victory, Malwa Stallions never managed to build substantial partnerships and were bowled out for 139 in 17.1 overs. Rakesh Thakur top-scored with 33 off 26 balls, while Ansh Yadav played a brisk knock of 30 from 19 deliveries. However, the rest of the batting line-up failed to capitalize as wickets fell at regular intervals. The Gwalior bowling attack shared the spoils effectively. Ishan Afridi and Saumy Pandey starred with three wickets each, putting the Stallions under constant pressure. Akash Raghuwanshi and Mangesh Yadav also chipped in with crucial breakthroughs as the Cheetahs wrapped up the innings with nearly three overs to spare. For his match-winning innings that laid the foundation for Gwalior's imposing total, Rajat Patidar (who has played 4 international matches for India) was named Player of the Match. Chambal Ghariyals vs Royal Nimar Eagles Fans at the Holkar Stadium were treated to another gripping encounter in the Aditya Birla Group Madhya Pradesh League (MPL) T20 Scindia Cup 2026, with Chambal Ghariyals prevailing over Royal Nimar Eagles by four wickets. Bowling first, the Chambal Ghariyals pacers once again delivered a brilliant performance against Royal Nimar Eagles, setting the tone from the very start of the match at the Holkar Stadium in Indore. The Eagles endured a shaky start, losing opener Himanshu Mantri in just the second over. The wicketkeeper-batter miscued a short delivery from Avesh Khan and was caught behind for 4 off 6 balls. From there on, the Ghariyals kept striking at regular intervals and never allowed the Eagles to build any significant partnerships. Kanishk Dubey, Anand Bais and Abhishek Mavi all got starts but failed to convert them into substantial scores. Dubey scored 23 off 17 balls, Bais made 28 off 22, while Mavi chipped in with a quick 28 off 15 deliveries. As a result, Royal Nimar Eagles were restricted to 145/9 in their 20 overs. Akshay Singh was impressive with the ball, claiming 2 wickets for 23 runs in his four overs. Avesh Khan chipped in with 1/28, while Tripuresh Singh also picked up two wickets, finishing with figures of 2/30. However, it was Mayur Singh Patel who did the most damage to the Eagles middle order, returning with outstanding figures of 3/28 in his four-over spell. In reply, openers Ankush Singh and Apurve Dwivedi provided a solid start to the chase, adding 40 runs for the first wicket. However, Royal Nimar Eagles fought back strongly and struck twice in quick succession to put the brakes on the scoring. With the score at 62/2, captain Shubham Sharma joined Gautam Raghuwanshi in the middle, and the duo steadied the innings with a crucial 41-run partnership. Just when Chambal Ghariyals looked to be cruising, the Eagles clawed their way back into the contest with wickets at regular intervals, reducing the Ghariyals to a tricky 132/6. In reply, openers Ankush Singh and Apurve Dwivedi provided a solid start to the chase, adding 40 runs for the first wicket. However, Royal Nimar Eagles fought back strongly and struck twice in quick succession to put the brakes on the scoring. Also Read: Live Cricket Score For Royal Nimar Eagles, Parush Mandal was the standout performer with the ball, claiming 3 wickets for 36 runs in his four overs, while Kumar Kartikeya chipped in with 2/24 from his four-over spell. Article Source: IANS
'Highly Encouraging Debut': Gavaskar Lauds Suthar After Three-wicket Haul Against Afghanistan
Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket: Batting great Sunil Gavaskar heaped praise on debutant left-arm spinner Manav Suthar after the youngster played a key role in putting India firmly in control of the one-off Test against Afghanistan at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium here on Sunday. Gavaskar was particularly impressed by Suthar's all-round contribution, noting that the spinner had looked assured with both bat and ball. Manav Suthar has certainly made an impressive start to his Test career. What stood out was not just his bowling, but also the confidence he showed with the bat, particularly in the way he used his feet and looked comfortable at the crease, Gavaskar told Jio Hotstar. With the ball, he was extremely accurate and consistently put the batters under pressure. There was some assistance available from the surface, which he utilised well, but the real test for any spinner comes on flatter pitches where greater variety and adaptability are required, he added. The former India captain, however, felt Suthar had shown enough promise to suggest he could develop into a strong option in the longer format. Having said that, this was a highly encouraging debut and he has shown the attributes to be a strong contender at the Test level going forward, he noted. Suthar struck crucial blows in Afghanistan's innings, removing Abdul Malik, Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Afsar Zazai, while maintaining excellent control and extracting assistance from the surface. Gavaskar also praised fast bowler Prasidh Krishna, who claimed 2-27 and accounted for Sediqullah Atal and Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi. Prasidh Krishna showed excellent awareness and adaptability in the way he approached his spell. As a fast bowler, the natural instinct is often to operate on a shorter length and use bounce to trouble batters, but he recognised the conditions and adjusted accordingly, Gavaskar said. By pitching the ball much fuller, he was able to generate movement back into the left-handers and create genuine wicket-taking opportunities. Both his wickets came as a result of that adjustment, one through a clean-bowled dismissal and the other via LBW. Prasidh Krishna showed excellent awareness and adaptability in the way he approached his spell. As a fast bowler, the natural instinct is often to operate on a shorter length and use bounce to trouble batters, but he recognised the conditions and adjusted accordingly, Gavaskar said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Earlier, India were powered by centuries from captain Shubman Gill and KL Rahul before Washington Sundar's unbeaten 52 helped the hosts declare at 564/8, setting up a dominant position in the match. Article Source: IANS
Salman Agha To Replace Shan Masood As Pakistan Test Captain: Report
Pakistan Cricket Board: Pakistan cricket is all set to see another change in Test captaincy with Salman Agha replacing Shan Masood who has a disappointing stint in the last three years. Masood has lost 12 of the 16 Tests he has captained since the tour of Australia in December 2023 with fourth straight loss to Bangladesh last month. Masood is the only captain from the top nine countries excluding Bangladesh, Ireland and Afghanistan losing his first 12 Tests in the 150-year history of the longer format, excluding Bangladesh and Zimbabwe. Sources told Masood has requested the Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Mohsin Naqvi to not sack him for the sake of consistency but Naqvi has had enough and rues his decision to keep Masood despite Pakistan finishing ninth and last in the third cycle of World Test Championship last year. Naqvi has had enough of Masood and now he and his advisers believe that Agha is the best candidate to replace Masood with two tough Tests coming in the West Indies and three more in England in the next few months, Telecomasia quoted as saying. Pakistan plays two Tests in Trinidad starting from July 25 before they tour England where the first Test is in Leeds from August 19. Masood also failed in the two-Test series with just one half century in four innings, which also makes his position in the squad untenable. The coaching staff is set to continue with former skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed as head coach and Umar Gul as bowling coach. There may be a new batting coach for the Caribbean tour. PCB is also considering another former captain Mohammad Hafeez as director international cricket, a department important to get better cricket schedule and to monitor the progress of players. The coaching staff is set to continue with former skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed as head coach and Umar Gul as bowling coach. There may be a new batting coach for the Caribbean tour. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Hafeez told Telecomasia that he has yet to get any offer but will consider if there is any offer. Article Source: IANS
Gus Atkinson Five-for Guides England To 115-run Win Against New Zealand In 1st Test
After New Zealand: Fast bowler Gus Atkinson continued his love affair with Lord's, taking yet another five-wicket haul in the second innings as England registered a dominant 115-run win against New Zealand in the first match of the three-match series at the iconic stadium. Chasing a challenging target of 254, New Zealand resumed on 55/5 on the third day and never seriously threatened the chase despite improved batting conditions compared to the opening days of the match. England struck early on Day 4 when Josh Tongue removed Tom Blundell with a superb delivery, leaving the visitors further behind in the contest. After New Zealand slipped to 58/6, Glenn Phillips led the resistance with a fighting knock of 78, the highest score of the match. He shared a valuable 53-run partnership with Devon Conway, who contributed 41 runs and looked comfortable at the crease. The stand was broken by England captain Ben Stokes, who dismissed Conway to put the hosts back in control. Atkinson then wrapped up the innings with a decisive spell. He dismissed Nathan Smith caught behind, had Kyle Jamieson chip a catch to short midwicket, and bowled Matt Henry to finish with another five-wicket haul. Phillips was left stranded at the non-striker's end as New Zealand were bowled out for 138. Earlier, New Zealand had made the most of favourable bowling conditions in the first innings, dismissing England for 140, with Kyle Jamieson claiming five wickets. England responded strongly with the ball, bundling New Zealand out for 113 to secure a 27-run first-innings lead. Ollie Robinson, making his return to the side, starred with a five-wicket haul as the visitors struggled against disciplined bowling. The hosts then strengthened their position by posting 226 in the second innings. Debutant Emilio Gay impressed with a well-made 57, helping England set New Zealand a target of 254. England responded strongly with the ball, bundling New Zealand out for 113 to secure a 27-run first-innings lead. Ollie Robinson, making his return to the side, starred with a five-wicket haul as the visitors struggled against disciplined bowling. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: England 140 & 226 ( Emilio Gay 57, Nathan Smith 6-70) beat New Zealand 113 & 138 ( Glenn Phillips 44, Atkinson 5-30) by 115 runs. Article Source: IANS
Shreyas Is Going To Have A Good Time As Well: Rohit Sharma Backs New India T20I Captain
Nuvama Pri T20 Mumbai League: Batting icon Rohit Sharma has backed newly-appointed India T20I captain Shreyas Iyer to thrive in his new role, while hailing the T20 Mumbai League as an important platform for nurturing the next generation of cricketers. Rohit's remarks came on a night when 21,708 fans packed the Wankhede Stadium for a star-studded Nuvama Pri T20 Mumbai League 2026 clash between SOBO Mumbai Falcons and Triumph Knights Mumbai North East, featuring Iyer and Suryakumar Yadav. Iyer marked his recent elevation as India's T20I captain with a match-winning 61 off 36 balls, guiding the Falcons to a five-wicket victory. The Face of the League, Rohit said Mumbai cricket's demanding environment helps prepare players for leadership roles at the highest level. Playing in Mumbai teaches you a lot of things. And if you ask anyone who has captained India or Mumbai, they'll tell you the same thing. Because nothing comes easy here, he said. You have to really earn it. So, captaincy is also something that you have to earn and earn the respect of people around you. And that is something that all these guys have. The World Cup-winning India captain pointed to the journeys of Mumbai cricketers who have gone on to lead the national side, citing both Suryakumar Yadav and Shreyas Iyer as examples of resilience and leadership. You've seen Surya who led India to the World Cup final. Look, he made his India debut at 31, if I'm not wrong. Which means that he never gave up. He always wanted to be in the fight. And when it came, he wanted to grab it with both hands. And he did it. Now, Shreyas has been announced as a T20 captain. And I'm sure looking at how he has captained in the last few years for his franchise in Mumbai and all of that, he's going to have a good time as well. Rohit also underlined the importance of the T20 Mumbai League in providing opportunities for emerging cricketers and strengthening Mumbai's cricketing ecosystem. We want the platform for all the players to come out and show their talent. And this is the perfect platform for a lot of these guys who are playing and taking part in it. Last year was a huge success, I saw it. A lot of people turned up as well, he said. Now, Shreyas has been announced as a T20 captain. And I'm sure looking at how he has captained in the last few years for his franchise in Mumbai and all of that, he's going to have a good time as well. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Rohit also credited Mumbai Cricket Association President Ajinkya Naik and his team for successfully staging the tournament and ensuring high standards despite the challenges of hosting it immediately after the IPL season. Huge credit to Ajinkya [Naik] and his team for putting up this show and a wonderful platform for everyone. And what I've been hearing from everyone is that there hasn't been any compromise. It's never easy, especially after the IPL. I know how tough it is, not just for the players but also not to forget the groundsmen who have been here day in, day out. That shows the people involved in the T20 Mumbai League are quite passionate as well. Article Source: IANS
Gus Atkinson Stars at Lords as England Crush New Zealand to Take 1-0 Test Series Lead
Gus Atkinson's love-affair with Lord's continued Sunday as England overwhelmed New Zealand by 115 runs to win the first Test. New Zealand, set 254 to win, were dismissed for 138 before lunch on the fourth day in what was the 150th Test staged at Lord's -- the most at any ground. Surrey paceman Atkinson took 5-30 -- his fourth five-wicket innings haul in three Tests at Lord's -- as England went 1-0 up in a three-match series. But fellow seamer Ollie Robinson was named player-of-the-match after marking his first Test in over two years with seven wickets in the match -- including a Test-best haul of 5-39, featuring a rare triple-wicket maiden, in New Zealand's meagre first-innings 113. England's success also owed much to debutant opener Emilo Gay's 57 in their second-innings 226. On Sunday, Devon Conway (41) and Glenn Phillips (44 not out) kept England at bay with a seventh-wicket partnership of 53 -- New Zealand's highest of a low-scoring match. England still only needed 19 overs to take the five wickets they required for victory as their first Test since a woeful 4-1 Ashes series loss in Australia, ended in a comprehensive success. New Zealand's overnight 55-5 became 58-6 when Tom Blundell was lbw to fast bowler Josh Tongue. Left-handed opener Conway, who resumed on 19 not out, slashed Tongue through gully for four. He should have been out next ball for 24 when Harry Brook dropped a two-handed chance above his head at second slip after the batsman tried to uppercut Tongue. New batsman Phillips drilled Robinson through extra-cover for four on another overcast morning that favoured the fast bowlers, with stroke-play far from easy on a pitch of inconsistent bounce. The aggressive Phillips thrashed a slightly wide Robinson delivery through the covers for four. England captain Ben Stokes brought himself on but Phillips clipped his fifth ball through midwicket for four to bring up New Zealand's hundred. Stokes did break through when he squared up Conway with a good-length ball that took the edge, Jacob Bethell holding a fine low catch in the gully to end a gritty 91-ball innings. New Zealand's 111-7 was transformed into 116-8 when Atkinson had Nathan Smith caught behind. And the Black Caps were nine wickets down and on the brink of defeat when Kyle Jamieson, who made 38 not out in the first innings, fell for six after clipping Atkinson to midwicket Phillips defiantly pulled Tongue for six - one of eight boundaries in 52 balls faced. But there was nothing he could do when Atkinson bowled last man Matt Henry for a duck to finish with innings figure of 5-30 in 11.3 overs. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The series now moves across London to the Oval, where the second Test starts on June 17.
Atkinson five-for seals England win on up-and-down Lord's pitch
The pitch made batting so treacherous that a wicket fell every 24.9 balls, the quickest rate in a Test in England since 1907
Sarfaraz and Hesson to oversee red and white-ball camps in Lahore
Babar is one of 22 players part of the red-ball camp which will run until July 10, while the 27-player white-ball camp will last until September 18
One-off Test: Batters, Suthar Shine As Afghanistan Trail India By 451 Runs At Stumps (Ld)
Captain Shubman Gill: India continued their dominance in the one-off Test against Afghanistan - declaring at 564/8 in 126 overs and then reduced the visitors to 113/5 at stumps on day twos play. For India, debutant left-arm spinner Manav Suthar emerged as the standout performer to pick 3-21 in 15.5 overs, as Afghanistan still trail by 451 runs. On a scorching Sunday, Indias innings was built on skipper and local lad Shubman Gills authoritative 126, KL Rahuls century, Sai Sudharsans 81 and Rishabh Pants 81 earlier in the day. But the lower-order contributions ensured the hosts had a healthy run-rate of 4.44 and also placed the innings among Indias fourth fastest 500-plus totals in Test history. The hosts declared after Washington Sundar hit a composed 52 not out, his sixth Test fifty, while Suthar hit two sixes and as many fours to get India past 500 and Mohammed Siraj produced an entertaining cameo of 22 off 12 balls. Captain Shubman Gill declared soon after Sundar reached his fifty, giving his bowlers two full sessions to put Afghanistan under the pump. Afghanistans reply faltered almost immediately. Abdul Malik attempted to counterattack but was undone by Suthars sharp turn on a sweep, he gave a top-edge to backward square leg. After the tea break was over, Prasidh Krishna produced a lovely nip-backer to uproot Sediqullah Atals stumps. Suthar, operating with remarkable control and brisk pace, bowled maiden after maiden to keep the batters on a lid. His accuracy was rewarded again when Rahmanullah Gurbaz nicked to slip, where sharp catch was taken. Rahmat Shah provided the only semblance of stability for Afghanistan, reaching 43 not out by stumps and becoming the first Afghanistan player to cross 1000 Test runs. Washington Sundar and Kuldeep Yadav also kept the pressure on, ensuring Afghanistan never found rhythm. His 36-run partnership with Hashmatullah Shahidi briefly steadied the innings. But Prasidh struck again to trap Shahidi lbw, leaving the visitors in deeper trouble. Afsar Zazais resistance ended in dramatic fashion as he closed the bat face too early and offered a simple return catch to Suthar, who ended his first day of bowling in Test cricket on a high. Afghanistan, meanwhile, now face a daunting task to avoid follow-on. In the morning, Gill, resuming from overnight score of 103 not out with authority, extended his innings to a commanding 126 off 177 balls before falling to Mohammad Saleem Safi, who bowled a fiery and disciplined spell with pace and movement with the second new ball. Pant, who looked equally assured, mixed caution with aggression to reach 81 off 121 balls, apart from sharing a 169-run stand with Gill. But his dismissal to skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi, who also got his first Test wicket, mirrored Sai Sudharsans fate from the previous day - both left-handers falling short of centuries after hitting promising fifties. India added 107 runs in the morning session, but Afghanistan could have had more success had they been sharper with their decision making in taking reviews. Gill survived a close lbw shout and Pant edged one behind - both decisions went unchallenged despite clear evidence of them being out later. Keeper Afsar Zazai endured a difficult time, unable to convince Shahidi to take the crucial DRS calls that might have changed the complexion of the innings. Safi was the standout bowler, claiming Gill and Dhruv Jurel in quick succession. Jurel, who looked positive with four boundaries in his 19 off 20 balls, misjudged a nip-backer and was castled. Shahidi then joined the wicket-taking act when he lured Pant into a mistimed lofted stroke and mid-off easily took the catch. Despite going off the steam in the later half, India remain firmly ahead as Sundar and Suthar held firm till lunch by hitting two boundaries each and ensuring no further damage was caused. After lunch, Sundar, Suthar and Siraj hit boundaries well, despite Safi picking 6-140, to ensure India had a healthy total on board before the declaration arrived at 1:33pm. Jurel, who looked positive with four boundaries in his 19 off 20 balls, misjudged a nip-backer and was castled. Shahidi then joined the wicket-taking act when he lured Pant into a mistimed lofted stroke and mid-off easily took the catch. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: India 564/8 dec in 127 overs (Shubman Gill 126, KL Rahul 100; Mohammad Saleem Safi 6-140, Hashmatullah Shahidi 1-91) trail Afghanistan 113/5 in 39.5 overs (Rahmat Shah 43 not out, Hashmatullah Shahidi 29; Manav Suthar 3-21, Prasidh Krishna 2-27) by 451 runs Article Source: IANS
One-off Test: Suthar Picks 3-21 As Afghanistan Trail India By 451 Runs At Stumps
Captain Shubman Gill: India continued their dominance in the one-off Test against Afghanistan - declaring at 564/8 in 126 overs and then reduced the visitors to 113/5 at stumps on day twos play. For India, debutant left-arm spinner Manav Suthar emerged as the standout performer to pick 3-21 in 15.5 overs, as Afghanistan still trail by 451 runs. The hosts had earlier declared after Washington Sundar hit a composed 52 not out, his sixth Test fifty, and Mohammed Siraj produced an entertaining cameo of 22 off 12 balls. Captain Shubman Gill declared soon after Sundar reached his fifty, giving his bowlers two full sessions to put Afghanistan under the pump. Afghanistans reply faltered almost immediately. Abdul Malik attempted to counterattack but was undone by Suthars sharp turn on a sweep, he gave a top-edge to backward square leg. After the tea break was over, Prasidh Krishna produced a lovely nip-backer to uproot Sediqullah Atals stumps. Suthar, operating with remarkable control and brisk pace, bowled maiden after maiden to keep the batters on a lid. His accuracy was rewarded again when Rahmanullah Gurbaz nicked to slip, where a sharp catch was taken. Rahmat Shah provided the only semblance of stability for Afghanistan, reaching 43 not out by stumps and becoming the first Afghanistan player to cross 1000 Test runs. Washington Sundar and Kuldeep Yadav also kept the pressure on, ensuring Afghanistan never found rhythm. Suthar, operating with remarkable control and brisk pace, bowled maiden after maiden to keep the batters on a lid. His accuracy was rewarded again when Rahmanullah Gurbaz nicked to slip, where a sharp catch was taken. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: India 564/8 dec in 127 overs (Shubman Gill 126, KL Rahul 100; Mohammad Saleem Safi 6-140, Hashmatullah Shahidi 1-91) trail Afghanistan 113/5 in 39.5 overs (Rahmat Shah 43 not out, Hashmatullah Shahidi 29; Manav Suthar 3-21, Prasidh Krishna 2-27) by 451 runs Article Source: IANS
He Didnt Seem To Have Too Much Gas Left In The Tank: Karim On Pants Dismissal
New Delhi: Former India wicketkeeper-batter Saba Karim believes Rishabh Pant's dismissal on day two of the one-off Test against Afghanistan was more a result of fatigue and dehydration than poor shot selection, after the left-hander's impressive innings ended on 81. Pant, who was removed as India's vice-captain ahead of the series with the role being handed to KL Rahul, appeared set for a century after batting fluently alongside skipper Shubman Gill. However, the wicketkeeper-batter fell for 81 off 121 balls when he miscued an attacking stroke and was caught at mid-off off Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi. Karim believes that Pant looked in complete control for most of his innings and was surprised to see him depart in that fashion. I was expecting a big knock from Rishabh Pant because he seemed to be in control, despite that outside edge for which no review was taken, Karim told Jio Hotstar. The former national selector felt Pant's physical condition in the extreme heat may have contributed to the dismissal. However, I felt that an over before his dismissal, he was beginning to lose energy. He didn't seem to have too much gas left in the tank. He required some treatment from the physio, and I think he was getting dehydrated. So perhaps it was a lapse in concentration more than anything else, he added. Karim also pointed out that the shot was uncharacteristic of Pant, who is generally known for calculated aggression despite his attacking reputation. Rarely do you see Rishabh Pant go for a big shot when both long-on and long-off are stationed on the boundary. He was simply trying to accelerate but didn't get the right ball to play that shot, he said. Karim also pointed out that the shot was uncharacteristic of Pant, who is generally known for calculated aggression despite his attacking reputation. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Pant's innings played a key role in India's commanding first-innings total of 564/8 declared, helping the hosts tighten their grip on the match despite falling 19 runs short of what would have been his seventh Test century. Article Source: IANS
Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium: The inaugural TG20 Player Auction got underway at Princess Convention Centre, Ramoji Film City, with a player pool comprising over 1,300 HCA-registered cricketers, franchises began assembling their squads by securing some of the states finest cricketing talent across the Icon, A+ and A categories. The auction brought together international stars, accomplished domestic performers and promising district cricketers, reflecting TG20s vision of creating a world-class platform for Telangana talent. India batter Tilak Varma emerged as the highest-valued player of the auction, joining Medak Falcons for Rs 33 Lakhs in the Icon Category. Meanwhile, Mohammed Siraj was picked by Warangal Warriors for Rs 14 Lakhs and CV Milind became the most expensive uncapped player, with Anvita Khammam Aces securing him for Rs 17 Lakhs. Other notable Icon category signings included Ravi Kiran (Palamuru Strikers), T. Raviteja (Medak Falcons), Tanay Thyagarajan (Pranava Ranga Reddy Risers), Rahul Buddhi (Anurag Nalgonda Knights), Tanmay Agarwal (Karimnagar Diamonds) and Rohit Rayudu (Palamuru Strikers). In an A+ Category, Aman Rao (Warangal Warriors), Pragnay Reddy (Palamuru Strikers), Ajay Dev Goud (Hyderabad e-Champions), Nitin Sai Yadav, Aaron George and Rakshann Readdi were among the marquee acquisitions as franchises strengthened their core squads. In an A Category, emerging talents also attracted strong bidding, with Arfaz Ahmed and Abhirath Reddy becoming the joint-highest buys in the category at Rs 11 Lakhs each. Chandan Sahani (Karimnagar Diamonds), Pranav Varma (Hyderabad e-Champions) and Hima Teja (Anvita Khammam Aces) were among the other prominent signings. In an A+ Category, Aman Rao (Warangal Warriors), Pragnay Reddy (Palamuru Strikers), Ajay Dev Goud (Hyderabad e-Champions), Nitin Sai Yadav, Aaron George and Rakshann Readdi were among the marquee acquisitions as franchises strengthened their core squads. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The inaugural edition of TG20 will commence on June 21 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium, Uppal, featuring 8 franchises competing in 32 matches over 21 action-packed days. Article Source: IANS
The Afghan Boys Showed A Lot Of Heart: Gavaskar Lauds Visitors Fightback Despite Indias 564
Decision Review System: India's former captain Sunil Gavaskar praised Afghanistan's fighting spirit after the visitors mounted a spirited comeback with the second new ball on day two of the one-off Test, despite India eventually declaring their first innings at a commanding 564/8. Resuming the day at 368/3, India looked set for an even bigger total after skipper Shubman Gill extended his overnight century to 126 and Rishabh Pant made a fluent 81. However, Afghanistan's pacers struck back in the morning session, reducing India to 475/6 by lunch and preventing the hosts from running away unchecked. Gavaskar lauded Afghanistan's determination and the way they utilised the second new ball. You could find yourself in a situation where you resume play at 368 for three and feel a little down as a bowling side. But what the Afghan boys showed was a lot of heart because they knew the second new ball was available, and they used it to very good effect, Gavaskar told Jio Hotstar. The former India captain also felt Afghanistan missed a crucial opportunity by failing to make full use of the Decision Review System during the session. Maybe if they had been better with their reviews, they might have had a lot more wickets to show for their efforts because the two reviews they missed came in the same over. Had they taken those wickets when the ball was still new, they might have picked up a few more, and perhaps the score would not have been 475 for six, but rather 450-odd for eight, or thereabouts, he added. Gill and Pant both benefited from unreviewed chances during their innings, with wicketkeeper Afsar Zazai unable to convince captain Hashmatullah Shahidi to challenge the on-field decisions. Mohammad Saleem Safi led Afghanistan's charge with the ball, dismissing Gill and Dhruv Jurel in a probing spell with the new ball, while Shahidi chipped in with the prized wicket of Pant. Despite India's eventual declaration at 564/8, Gavaskar said Afghanistan's approach deserved appreciation. Mohammad Saleem Safi led Afghanistan's charge with the ball, dismissing Gill and Dhruv Jurel in a probing spell with the new ball, while Shahidi chipped in with the prized wicket of Pant. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India's imposing total was built around centuries from Gill and KL Rahul, while Pant's aggressive 81 further strengthened the hosts' position. Article Source: IANS
SOBO Mumbai Falcons Storm Into Inaugural T20 Mumbai Womens League Final
Aakash Tigers Mumbai Western Suburb: SOBO Mumbai Falcons sealed their place in the final of the inaugural T20 Mumbai Womens League after registering their third successive victory with a comprehensive 39-run win over Aakash Tigers Mumbai Western Suburb at the Wankhede Stadium on Sunday. Defending a competitive total of 143/7, the Falcons produced a clinical bowling display to dismiss the Tigers for 104 in 18.2 overs. The chase got off to the worst possible start for the Tigers as skipper Humairaa Kaazi was dismissed for a duck by her opposite number Sayali Satghare before the team could open its account. Opener Sanika Chalke and Sejal Raut attempted to rebuild the innings with a 47-run partnership for the second wicket. Sejal made 15 before falling in the seventh over, while Sanika looked set for a bigger score before being run out for a fighting 42 with the score on 61/3. After Sanika's dismissal, the Tigers struggled to keep pace with the required rate as wickets fell regularly. None of the remaining batters managed to make a substantial contribution, and the innings folded for 104. Sayali led (2-21) from the front with the ball, while Nirmiti Rane (2-21) and Swara Jadhav (2-12) chipped in with two wickets apiece. Earlier, Sarika Koli's composed 49 laid the foundation for the Falcons' total. Put in to bat, the Falcons suffered an early setback when Riya Chaudhari departed for two. Simran Shaikh (38) and Aarohi Bambode (19) steadied the innings with a valuable 44-run stand for the second wicket before the Tigers struck twice in quick succession to pull things back. Koli then took charge alongside captain Sayali, adding 43 runs for the fourth wicket. However, Fatima Jaffar, who impressed with figures of 3/20, broke the partnership by dismissing Sayali and continued to keep the scoring in check. Earlier, Sarika Koli's composed 49 laid the foundation for the Falcons' total. Put in to bat, the Falcons suffered an early setback when Riya Chaudhari departed for two. Simran Shaikh (38) and Aarohi Bambode (19) steadied the innings with a valuable 44-run stand for the second wicket before the Tigers struck twice in quick succession to pull things back. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: SOBO Mumbai Falcons 143/7 in 20 overs (Sarika Koli 49, Simran Shaikh 38; Fatima Jaffar 3-20) beat Aakash Tigers MWS 104 all out in 18.2 overs (Sanika Chalke 42; Swara Jadhav 2-12, Sayali Satghare 2-21, Nirmiti Rane 2-21) by 39 runs. Article Source: IANS
Anushka Leads From The Front As Bundelkhand Bulls Edge Gwalior Shernis In MPL T20 Scindia Cup
MPL T20 Scindia Cup: Bundelkhand Bulls continued their winning run in the womens competition of Madhya Pradesh League (MPL) T20 Scindia Cup 2026 with a thrilling four-wicket victory over Gwalior Shernis. After being put in to bat by Bundelkhand Bulls at Daly College, Indore, Gwalior Shernis scored 117/6 in their 20 overs. Openers Nuzhat Parween and Aashna Patidar gave the Shernis a steady start, adding 37 runs for the first wicket before Aashna was dismissed for 16 off 15 balls. Parween then joined hands with Soumya Tiwari, and the duo stitched together a valuable 41-run partnership to keep the innings on track. However, the Shernis suffered a collapse after the skippers dismissal for 38 off 45 deliveries, losing wickets at regular intervals. Bundelkhand Bulls seized control through disciplined bowling from Shuchi Upadhyay and Muskan Biswas. Shuchi was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 3/30 in her four overs, while Muskan claimed 2/17 in an equally impressive spell. Payal Balmik also chipped in with a wicket, conceding just 14 runs from her two overs. Parween then joined hands with Soumya Tiwari, and the duo stitched together a valuable 41-run partnership to keep the innings on track. However, the Shernis suffered a collapse after the skippers dismissal for 38 off 45 deliveries, losing wickets at regular intervals. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Anushka, meanwhile, continued to anchor the chase from one end and kept the scoreboard moving like an international match. The match took an interesting turn in the 17th over when Mahi Thakur appeared to have been dismissed, only for the delivery to be called a no-ball. Article Source: IANS
My Sister Told Me, 'It's Official': Manav Suthar Reveals How He Learned About His Test Selection
Indian Premier League: Promising left-arm spin-bowling all-rounder Manav Suthar recalled the emotional moment of his India call-up, revealing that his sister told him that his name had come up for the Indian team for the one-off Test against Afghanistan. India added Suthar to the XI for the one-off Test against Afghanistan in Mullanpur. Before the game began on Saturday, Suthar, who played for the Gujarat Titans in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 under Indias red-ball skipper Shubman Gills leadership, earned his first cap from senior spinner Kuldeep, becoming India's first specialist spin-bowling Test debutant since Axar Patel made his debut in 2021. I was in my room when my sister called me. Maybe she was watching the squad announcement event. She told me that my name had come up in the Indian team. I asked her if it was official. She said yes, it's official. She was the first one to call me. Everyone was emotional when I got the call. Dad, mom, everyone called me. They couldn't believe it. I can't describe it in words. It's the biggest feeling. You work hard for years, and then you finally get selected for India. It's the best feeling. The best feeling of my life, Suthar told JioStar. The 23-year-old allrounder opened about how his love for cricket first developed as a child. Cricket has always been a big part of my family. My father loves the game, and everyone at home watches matches regularly. As a young boy, I used to sit with them and watch. That is where my love for cricket first started. I began playing in the streets with my friends. Those street games taught me the basics, how to hold the bat and how to bowl. When I was 10 or 11, I joined a proper cricket academy. I started training under coach Dheeraj sir and Vinod sir. They taught me the right techniques and helped me improve my game. My first big breakthrough came when I played for Rajasthan in the Under-14 category. That experience gave me a lot of motivation. I realized that I could make a career out of this sport. From there, my journey as a cricketer truly began. On the obstacles he overcame to make it to the top level, Suthar said, In a country like India, with such a huge population, succeeding in cricket is never easy. You never know what the future holds. There are so many talented players competing for the same few spots. I faced a lot of challenges along the way. Many people told me to focus on my studies. They said cricket had no scope and that I was wasting my time. But I didn't listen. I didn't give up. I kept working hard, session after session, season after season, he said. Hailing from Rajasthan and having sharpened his skills through the state's domestic circuit, Suthar has built an impressive first-class record. In 29 first-class matches, he has claimed 129 wickets, establishing himself as one of the country's most promising young spinners. He has also featured in 25 List-A matches and 29 T20 games. I had a great domestic season. I performed well for India A too. My name was being discussed, and I knew the call could come anytime. It was a waiting game, but I stayed patient. I made my IPL debut in 2024 with Gujarat Titans. I played only one game that season. I didn't get a chance to play in 2025, but I played four games in 2026, and it felt good to be back on the field. Now, all the hard work in domestic cricket and for India A has paid off. I am in the playing XI for the Afghanistan Test, making my international debut. It is a dream come true. All the sacrifices have finally paid off. I feel proud, grateful, and ready to give my best for the country, he added. I had a great domestic season. I performed well for India A too. My name was being discussed, and I knew the call could come anytime. It was a waiting game, but I stayed patient. I made my IPL debut in 2024 with Gujarat Titans. I played only one game that season. I didn't get a chance to play in 2025, but I played four games in 2026, and it felt good to be back on the field. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Yuvraj Singh is my favourite cricketer. I also really admire R Ashwin. The way they bowled, the variety they had in their bowling, and how they adapted to Test cricket, ODIs, and T20s, that inspires me a lot. They are my role models, Suthar said. Article Source: IANS
One-off Test: Washington Hits 52 Not Out As India Declare At 564/8 Against Afghanistan
Mohammad Saleem Safi: India declared their innings at 564/8 in 127 overs on day two of the one-off Test against Afghanistan, with Washington Sundar unbeaten on a composed 52. For Afghanistan, pacer Mohammad Saleem Safi finished with 6-140. The declaration came at 1:33pm local time, signalled by captain Shubman Gill after Sundar reached his fifty The all-rounder, often shuffled in the batting order, once again underlined his value with the bat by mixing patience with timely aggression. His fifty was marked by a wristy flick for four off Safi, after slamming a commanding pull for six. Indias lower order added quick runs before Gill called time. Debutant Manav Suthar struck two lusty sixes to push the total past 500, but his attacking cameo ended when he became Safis fifth victim. Mohammed Siraj was promoted ahead of Kuldeep Yadav and responded with a breezy 22 off 12 balls, including a six and three boundaries, before Safi cleaned him up. Kuldeep Yadav then joined Sundar and added nine runs before the declaration came. Safis spell was the highlight of Afghanistans effort. Having gone wicketless in his previous four international appearances, the pacer found rhythm and consistency with the second new ball, exploiting variable bounce and mixing lengths to trouble Indias batters. On a scorching Sunday in New Chandigarh, when India walked off after declaring their innings, Safi left the field with the match ball raised in acknowledgement of the sparse crowd. Indias innings was built on skipper Shubman Gills authoritative 126, KL Rahuls century, Sai Sudharsans 81 and Rishabh Pants 81 earlier in the day. But the lower-order contributions ensured the hosts had a healthy run-rate of 4.44 and also placed the innings among Indias fourth fastest 500-plus totals in Test history. Safis spell was the highlight of Afghanistans effort. Having gone wicketless in his previous four international appearances, the pacer found rhythm and consistency with the second new ball, exploiting variable bounce and mixing lengths to trouble Indias batters. On a scorching Sunday in New Chandigarh, when India walked off after declaring their innings, Safi left the field with the match ball raised in acknowledgement of the sparse crowd. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: India 564/8 dec. in 127 overs (Shubman Gill 126, KL Rahul 100; Mohammad Saleem Safi 6-140, Hashmatullah Shahidi 1-91) against Afghanistan Article Source: IANS
Shreyas Iyer has replaced Suryakumar Yadav as India's T20I captain following a strategic review by selectors and his impressive recent form. Suryakumar's underwhelming performances, including a disappointing IPL 2026 campaign, resulted in him losing both the captaincy and his place in the squad.
Don't Let Expectations Distract From Process: Harmanpreet's Mantra For Women's T20 WC
T20 World Cup: India skipper Harmanpreet Kaur has a knack for keeping things simple, even as the noise around the upcoming Womens T20 World Cup has started to take centrestage. The chatter about India being in the group of death, batting frailties or the scars of the group stage exit in the 2024 Womens T20 World Cup fades quickly when she speaks with the utmost clarity. Hardened by previous setbacks at global events, India finally broke the trophy drought with the ODI World Cup won at home in 2025. Now, India seeks to clinch its first Womens T20 World Cup title in England and Wales, expectations from all quarters are on a high when Harmanpreet & Co. take the field on June 14 against Pakistan in Birmingham. But Harmanpreet insists that one thing has still not changed - of not letting expectations distracting one from their usual process to achieve glory. With success naturally comes more expectations, but I see that as a positive sign for women's cricket. It shows that people are emotionally invested in the team and are following our journey closely. Personally, I try not to think too much about outside pressure. My focus remains on preparation, contributing to the team, and staying present in the moment. Over the years, I have realised that expectations will always exist at this level, and the key is to not let them distract you from your process. It is also very encouraging to see more fans engaging with women's cricket now. Growing support motivates all of us to keep improving and performing consistently, recalls Harmanpreet in an exclusive conversation with IANS ahead of the T20 World Cup, facilitated by CREX. Even though India suffered series losses in South Africa in the run-up to the 12-team mega event, the extensive hardwork done at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru was, by Harmanpreet's account, as thorough a preparation as she has been part of - not just in terms of skill work, but also in terms of role clarity and mental readiness. The preparatory camp at the Centre of Excellence was very structured and focused on multiple aspects of readiness for the T20 World Cup. Along with skill-based training, there was strong emphasis on fitness, match simulations, game awareness, and handling pressure situations. We also worked a lot on role clarity within the team, which is extremely important in T20 cricket because situations change very quickly. The support staff ensured that preparation was not just physical, but also mental and tactical. Camps like these help build rhythm and confidence as a group before a major tournament, and they also allow younger players to spend more time with experienced players in a competitive environment, added Harmanpreet. Apart from keeping an eye on ensuring the 2026 T20 World Cup campaign tells a different story for India as compared to earlier years, the onlookers will be keen to cast a view on Harmanpreets own batting. In South Africa earlier this year, she showed a willingness to attack earlier in the innings while hitting 66 in Johannesburg. A more aggressive version of Harmanpreet has been shaped by a sharper intent that head coach Amol Muzumdar later highlighted. Its also evident from the numbers too - in T20Is this year, Harmanpreet has scored at a strike rate of 132.3 - her best in any calendar year by a distance. Asked about her recent surge in aggression with the bat in the shortest format, Harmanpreet traces it to one word process. Modern T20 cricket is constantly evolving, and as players, we also need to evolve with the demands of the game. The idea behind becoming more aggressive was not about changing my natural game completely, but about being more proactive and taking calculated risks earlier when the situation allows. A lot of discussions with the coaches, including Amol sir, helped in identifying areas where I could put more pressure on bowlers and improve scoring options. We worked specifically on intent, shot selection, and adapting quicker to match situations. Implementing it was more about mindset and clarity. Once you trust your preparation and decision-making, you can play with more freedom and confidence, she added. Aside from batting and hitting deliveries from the get go, Harmanpreets love for fielding still remains high, for it is treated not as a secondary skill, but as part of the same commitment she brings to batting and captaincy. Cast your mind back to November 2, 2025 at DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai, when South Africas Nadine de Klerk backed away to carve an inside out against a low full toss outside off stump from Deepti Sharma. But Nadine only managed to slice the ball high towards extra cover, where Harmanpreet turned swiftly, ran back and tracked the ball over her shoulder before completing a clean catch and confirmed Indias long awaited ODI World Cup victory. Absolutely - fielding is something I genuinely enjoy because it allows you to stay constantly involved in the game and contribute to the team in different ways. A good catch, a sharp run-out, or saving crucial runs can change the momentum of a match just as much as an important innings. I have always believed that energy on the field reflects the attitude of the team. Diving, chasing balls, and putting in that extra effort also motivates teammates and lifts the overall intensity on the field. Batting will always be special to me, but fielding gives a different kind of satisfaction because it is completely about awareness, commitment, and reacting in the moment. Quizzed on whether she enjoys the thrill of taking a good catch or the satisfaction of a dive leading to a good run-out, Harmanpreet refuses to choose between the two. I think it is a combination of both. As a fielder, you always have the opportunity to make an impact on the game, whether it is through taking a catch, saving crucial runs, or creating a run-out opportunity. There is a special thrill in taking a difficult catch, but at the same time, putting in a dive to stop a boundary or contributing to a run-out can be equally satisfying because it helps the team in an important moment. What I enjoy most about fielding is the energy and involvement it brings. You are constantly alert, reading the game, and looking for opportunities to make a difference. Good fielding can shift momentum just as much as a good innings or a crucial wicket, and being able to contribute in that way is something I really enjoy. The same logic runs through how Harmanpreet thinks about something beyond her own performance: - the visibility of women's cricket itself and the chatter amongst fans for the game on a daily basis, which is visible through her partnership with CREX and its unique Social feature which allows fans to have discussions and analysis in real time, especially when the matches are on. Today, audiences want instant updates, live engagement, statistics, and match conversations in one place, and digital platforms help bridge that gap effectively. For womens cricket, consistent visibility is extremely important. The more regularly fans can follow matches, player performances, and a tournaments moments, the stronger the connection with the sport becomes. For womens cricket, this kind of engagement is very valuable because it helps build familiarity and long-term fan loyalty beyond just headline moments. Fan conversations are extremely important because they create a sense of community around the sport. When people actively discuss matches, players, performances, and key moments in real time, it increases emotional investment and visibility for the game. For womens cricket, these conversations help normalise the sport within mainstream cricket culture rather than treating it separately. The more people talk about the sport regularly, the stronger and more connected the fan ecosystem becomes, she added. For womens cricket, this kind of engagement is very valuable because it helps build familiarity and long-term fan loyalty beyond just headline moments. Fan conversations are extremely important because they create a sense of community around the sport. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Harmanpreet has faced harder situations with less certainty and found her way through all of it. Whether that same quiet conviction of staying in the present, to not let lofty expectations swallow the team, and trusting the process above all else carries India to the one white-ball trophy that still eludes them, only these next few weeks will tell. A thrilling English summer awaits Harmanpreet and she looks ready to face it headon. Article Source: IANS
India march ahead despite Saleem's strikes, Pant misses out on century
India lost three wickets in the morning session, of Gill, Jurel and Pant
One-off Test: Gill, Pant Power India To 475/6 Against Afghanistan At Lunch
Mohammad Saleem Safi: Indias batting charge continued to shine bright on day two of the one-off Test against Afghanistan, with skipper Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant hitting 126 and 81, respectively, before the visitors struck back to claim three wickets in the first session. At lunch, India are at 475/6 in 110 overs, with Washington Sundar (14 not out) and debutant Manav Suthar (nine not out) at the crease. Gill, resuming from overnight score of 103 not out with authority, extended his innings to a commanding 126 off 177 balls before falling to Mohammad Saleem Safi, who bowled a fiery and disciplined spell with pace and movement with the second new ball. Pant, who looked equally assured, mixed caution with aggression to reach 81 off 121 balls. But his dismissal to skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi, who also got his first Test wicket, mirrored Sai Sudharsans fate from the previous day - both left-handers falling short of centuries after hitting promising fifties. India added 107 runs in the morning session, but Afghanistan could have had more success had they been sharper with their decision making in taking reviews. Gill survived a close lbw shout and Pant edged one behind - both decisions went unchallenged despite clear evidence of them being out later. Keeper Afsar Zazai endured a difficult time, unable to convince Shahidi to take the crucial DRS calls that might have changed the complexion of the innings. Safi was the standout bowler, claiming Gill and Dhruv Jurel in quick succession. Jurel, who looked positive with four boundaries in his 19 off 20 balls, misjudged a nip-backer and was castled. Shahidi then joined the wicket-taking act when he lured Pant into a mistimed lofted stroke and mid-off easily took the catch. Keeper Afsar Zazai endured a difficult time, unable to convince Shahidi to take the crucial DRS calls that might have changed the complexion of the innings. Safi was the standout bowler, claiming Gill and Dhruv Jurel in quick succession. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: India 475/6 in 110 overs (Shubman Gill 126, KL Rahul 100; Mohammad Saleem Safi 4-109, Hashmatullah Shahidi 1-70) against Afghanistan Article Source: IANS
Triumph Knights Mumbai North East: Indias newly-appointed T20I captain Shreyas Iyer produced a sensational knock, smashing a fluent 61 off 36 balls to guide SOBO Mumbai Falcons to a convincing five-wicket victory over Triumph Knights Mumbai North East in a marquee T20 Mumbai League 2026 encounter at the Wankhede Stadium. The blockbuster fixture offered a glimpse into Mumbai crickets remarkable depth and enduring legacy, bringing together World Cup-winning captains Rohit Sharma, whos also the face of the league, and Suryakumar Yadav alongside Indias newest T20I captain Iyer on the same stage. Rohit was present for the toss and also enjoyed the thrilling contest. With 21,708 fans packing the Wankhede, the contest underlined the growing stature and competitiveness of one of Indias leading franchise-based domestic T20 tournaments as spectators were treated to a high-quality action featuring some of the biggest names in Indian cricket. Chasing a modest 148, the Falcons were jolted early after losing both openers with just 41 runs on the board. Introduced as an Impact Player, Iyer transformed the chase with an authoritative innings, immediately taking charge with back-to-back boundaries to wrest control of the contest, played late on Saturday night. The right-hander stitched together a 33-run stand with Gautam Waghela for the third wicket before unleashing an array of elegant strokes against the Knights' attack. He brought up his half-century in style with a towering six over deep midwicket and continued to dominate the bowling, putting the Falcons firmly on course for victory. Parikshit Valsangkar eventually ended Shreyas enterprising knock, which featured five fours and four sixes, but by then the result was all but sealed. Akash Parkar applied the finishing touch with a six as the Falcons completed the chase with 20 balls to spare. Earlier, Suryakumar starred with the willow, scoring a fluent 48 off 24 deliveries, laced with three fours and four sixes. The T20 World Cup-winning captain helped the Knights recover from the early setbacks with a 56-runs partnership with the in-form Nutan Goel (34). However, the Falcons' bowlers tightened the screws after the stand was broken, preventing the Knights from building further momentum. Prathamesh Dake starred with the ball, claiming four wickets as Triumph Knights MNE were restricted to 147/8 in their allotted 20 overs. Earlier, Suryakumar starred with the willow, scoring a fluent 48 off 24 deliveries, laced with three fours and four sixes. The T20 World Cup-winning captain helped the Knights recover from the early setbacks with a 56-runs partnership with the in-form Nutan Goel (34). Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: Triumph Knights Mumbai North East 147/8 in 20 overs (Suryakumar Yadav 48, Nutan Goel 34; Prathamesh Dake 4-30) lost to SOBO Mumbai Falcons 149/5 in 16.4 overs (Shreyas Iyer 61, Gautam Waghela 26) by five wickets. Article Source: IANS
From England to New Zealand: Cricket Nations at the FIFA World Cup 2026
The 2026 FIFA Mens World Cup kicks off when joint-hosts Mexico get the tournament underway in Mexico City's Azteca Stadium on June 11, 2026. It will be the biggest World Cup, expanding from 32 nations in Qatar 2022 to 48 teams in the USA, Mexico and Canada. What is crickets contribution to the FIFA World Cup? There are not many countries who have participated in both the football and cricket World Cup. England is the most prominent nation among those who have featured in both the tournaments. Football is one of the most popular games in Europe and with cricket also expanding, World Cup participation in both the sports has also increased in recent years. England is the only team to have a world-class side in both sports. The lack of World Cup wins is a common strand between both mens national teams, but they are the only side to achieve the double. India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Zimbabwe, Afghanistan and Bangladesh are far away from a shot at making the football World Cup. New Zealand gets a chance every four years but is inhibited by their continents frailties. South Africa even hosted it in 2010, but their run also ended there, and now they are returning after 16 years. The West Indies compete as individual nations in football, which leaves only Australia and Ireland amongst the top 12 full members of the International Cricket Council. *The football World Cup expansion has helped in an increase the participation of nations in the event, of those who have appeared in the cricket World Cup (50 overs) also, and this time a total of 7 such teams are playing. *In addition to the playing of regulars, the number of cricket World Cup teams in the football World Cup has been boosted by the return of New Zealand (after last participation in 2010), Scotland (after last participation in 1998) and South Africa (after last participation in 2010). * So far, England is the only team to have won both the football and cricket World Cup. Let us have a look: Australia World Cup Cricket: 1975, 1979, 1983, 1987,1992, 1996, 1999, 2003,2007, 2011, 2015. 2019, 2023 Best: Champions 1987, 1999, 2003, 2007,2015, 2023 World Cup Football: 1974, 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022 ,2026 Best: Second round 2006, 2022 Canada World Cup Cricket: 1979, 2003, 2007, 2011 Best: First round World Cup Football: 1986, 2022, 2026 Best: First round 1986, 2022 England World Cup Cricket: 1975, 1979, 1983, 1987,1992, 1996, 1999, 2003,2007, 2011, 2015, 2019, 2023 Best: Champion 2019 World Cup Football: 1950, 1954, 1958, 1962,1966, 1970, 1982, 1986, 1990, 1998, 2002, 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022, 2026 In 1958 Wales also participated and entered QF. Best: Champion 1966 Netherlands World Cup Cricket: 1996, 2003, 2007, 2011, 2023 Best: First round World Cup Football: 1934, 1938, 1974, 1978, 1990, 1994, 1998, 2006, 2010, 2014, 2022, 2026 Best: Runners-up 1974, 1978, 2010 New Zealand World Cup Cricket: 1975, 1979, 1983, 1987,1992, 1996, 1999, 2003, 2007, 2011, 2015, 2019, 2023 Best: Final 2015, 2019 World Cup Football: 1982, 2010, 2026 Best: First round Ireland World Cup Cricket: 2007, 2011, 2015 Best: Super Eights 2007 World Cup Football: As Republic of Ireland in 1990, 1994, 2002 with best of Quarter-final in 1990 As Northern Ireland in 1958, 1982, 1986 with best of second round in 1958, 1982 Scotland World Cup Cricket: 1999, 2007, 2015 Best: First round World Cup Football: 1954, 1958, 1974, 1978,1982, 1986, 1990, 1998, 2026 Best: First round South Africa World Cup Cricket: 1992, 1996, 1999, 2003,2007, 2011, 2015, 2019, 2023 Best: Semi-final 1992, 1999, 2007, 2015, 2023 World Cup Football: 1998, 2002, 2010, 2026 Best: First round UAE World Cup Cricket: 1996, 2015 Best: First round World Cup Football:1990 Best: First round West Indies World Cup Cricket: 1975, 1979, 1983, 1987,1992, 1996, 1999, 2003,2007, 2011, 2015, 2019 Best: Champion 1975, 1979 World Cup Football: Jamaica in 1998 with best of first round Also Read: Live Cricket Score Trinidad & Tobago in 2006 with best of first round
Womens T20 WC: Mooney Tips Voll To Justify No.3 Batter Tag
T20 World Cup: Australia opener Beth Mooney has backed her partner at the top Georgia Voll to justify her credentials as the worlds top-ranked T20I batter when she makes her maiden appearance in a Womens T20 World Cup when the tournament begins in England and Wales on June 12. Georgia, 22, climbed to the summit of the ICC Womens T20I batting rankings earlier this year after a string of commanding knocks, including hitting her maiden century against the West Indies in March. With the legendary Alyssa Healy retiring earlier this year, Georgia is set to partner with Beth as Australia attempt to add a record seventh Womens T20 World Cup title. She (Voll) has put a marker out there to other teams with the way she's been playing her cricket in the past 12-18 months, so I am really excited to see her take her opportunity at the top of the order. She played a lot of cricket before she made her debut for Australia. She played for Queensland and Brisbane at a pretty young age, so I think that's given her a lot of confidence going into international cricket, and she's got real clarity on her game and her role as well. She's a real talent, she hits the ball nice and hard, she picks up length really well, so she'll be a real threat for us for sure, Beth was quoted as saying by ICC on Sunday. She (Voll) has put a marker out there to other teams with the way she's been playing her cricket in the past 12-18 months, so I am really excited to see her take her opportunity at the top of the order. She played a lot of cricket before she made her debut for Australia. Also Read: Live Cricket Score For me personally, walking out with someone different in a T20 World Cup is going to be a little bit weird, but fortunately, 'Volly' and I have a pretty cool relationship as well. Hopefully we can replicate some of the cool things that 'Midge' (Healy) and I did at the top of the order in T20 World Cups and create our own story there open the batting for Australia in big games, and have a lot of fun doing it, she added. Article Source: IANS
'It Couldve Been A Big Innings': Sudharsan Rues Missing Out On Big Score In One-off Test
New Chandigarh: Young India left-handed batter Sai Sudharsan said he was disappointed at missing out on a bigger score in the ongoing one-off Test against Afghanistan, but expressed happiness over having contributed to the teams score of 368/3 on day ones play. Batting at number three after India elected to bat first, Sudharsan scored 81, his third fifty in the format and had a second-wicket stand of 139 with centurion KL Rahul. I think, I was set, it could have been a big innings. Definitely disappointed, but really happy that I could contribute for the team and be a bit more certain there, Sudharsan said to broadcasters ahead of day twos play. Asked about the transition from T20 cricket to the longer format, Sudharsan explained, I mean, mentally, I think it's not a big difference for me, as I play the sport very similar, wherever I go and play, whether white ball or red ball. It's all about decision-making for me and just a few minor technical adjustments, which we had three, four days of time, which helped me to get back to red ball cricket and it was great. Sudharsan, known for his methodical preparation, said his process to bat in Tests is built on clarity and trust. Definitely, we had videos in place, so I worked on it. I looked what the bowlers can bowl and what they can come, what they can do against me. At the same time, I was very clear with what I wanted to do with the game plan and what I wanted to look at when I entered the game. It was more about me mentally being there and more about me mentally trusting myself or believing myself more. I think that kicked in a bit more, just came and it helped well. Sudharsan, known for his methodical preparation, said his process to bat in Tests is built on clarity and trust. Definitely, we had videos in place, so I worked on it. I looked what the bowlers can bowl and what they can come, what they can do against me. Also Read: Live Cricket Score That's what a cricketer wants, that certainty or that freedom, whatever he wants to do. And if he gets that, he doesn't have to think about what will happen in the future or what had happened in the past. It's all about now and if that freedom is being placed, I think it's the best place for a cricketer to express himself and do what he wants to do at best. Article Source: IANS
Cricket Victoria apply to trademark Melbourne Rangers name
Melbourne Stars will be rebranded should a hybrid model for BBL privatisation be approved in the coming weeks
A new name, a new champion: Andreeva conquers Roland Garros
The 19-year-old became the youngest Roland Garros womens champion since Monica Seles in 1992, cementing her status as one of tenniss brightest stars
Russian Teen Mirra Andreeva Says She Had to Overcome So Many Demons Inside to Win the French Open
After bursting onto the scene at 15, Andreeva became a Grand Slam champion at 19 when the Russian ended the run of 114th-ranked Polish qualifier Maja Chwalinska with a 6-3, 6-2 victory in the French Open final on Saturday.
Broad, Sanderson and Sales help keep Northants winning run going
Callum Parkinson takes 3 for 19 but Durham struggle in low-scoring arm wrestle at Chester-le-Street
WI bowl first in drizzly Kingston; Malinga, Jangoo named in XIs
SL need a win to gain their first ODI series victory in WI since 2003
Bengal T20 League: Shami Hat-trick, Vishal's 86 Power Siliguri Strikers To Dominant Win
Bengal T20 League Season: The iconic Eden Gardens on Saturday witnessed another Md Shami special as the veteran pacer bagged an impressive hat-trick for Servotech Siliguri Strikers against Shrachi Rarh Tigers in the Bengal T20 League Season 3 match. Shami dismissed Shahbaz Ahmed in the fourth ball of the 16th over, followed that up by claiming Rohit Kumar and Dipanjan Mukherjee in the fifth and sixth balls respectively to complete his hat-trick. Shami finished with 4 for 27 in 4 overs while Karan Lal (3-36) also impressed as Siliguri bagged a 24-run victory over Rarh Tigers. Put into bat, Siliguri Strikers posted a challenging 208/4 in 20 overs, thanks to Vishal Bhati's brilliant 46-ball 86. His knock included 6 sixes and 5 fours. At the end, Pramod Chandila's quickfire 36 not out off 16 powered the team past 200. Chasing the target, Shrachi Rarh Tigers managed 184/9 in 20 overs. Shuvam Dey Sr (48 off 25) and Rahul Prasad (44 off 26) were the pick of the batters. Earlier in the day's first match, Sobisco Smashers Malda outclassed Murshidabad Kings by seven wickets. Put into bat, after the match was reduced to 15-overs-a-side due to rain, Murshidabad Kings scored 134/7 in the allotted overs. Deepanshu (47 off 33) top-scored for his side. For Malda, Suraj Sindhu Jaiswal was the pick of the bowlers, bagging 3 for 18. In reply, Writam Porel (50 off 29) and Abhimanyu Easwaran (48 not out off 31) helped Malda chase the target down, scoring 138/3 in 13.4 overs. Riding on a dominant batting display, Sobisco Smashers Malda registered a convincing seven-wicket victory over Murshidabad Kings in the Bengal T20 League Season 3 men's competition at Eden Gardens on Saturday. After rain reduced the contest to a 15-overs-a-side affair, Murshidabad Kings batted first and posted a competitive 134/7. Deepanshu led the scoring with a brisk 47 off 33 deliveries, while contributions from the middle order helped the side maintain momentum through the innings. In response, Sobisco Smashers Malda made light work of the chase. Writam Porel set the tone with an aggressive 50 off 29 balls before Abhimanyu Easwaran anchored the innings with an unbeaten 48 off 31 deliveries. The duo ensured Malda remained firmly in control as they chased down the target, finishing on 138/3 with eight balls to spare. Brief scores: Murshidabad Kings vs Sobisco Smashers Malda Murshidabad Kings 134/7 (15 overs) Sobisco Smashers Malda: 138/3 (13.4 overs) Brief score Shrachi Rarh Tigers vs Servotech Siliguri Strikers Sobisco Smashers Malda: 138/3 (13.4 overs) Also Read: Live Cricket Score Shrachi Rarh Tigers: 184/9 (20 overs). Article Source: IANS
'Very Happy For Shreyas': Suryakumar Reacts To Iyer Becoming India T20I Captain
Former India T20I: Former India T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav has welcomed Shreyas Iyer's appointment as the new skipper of the men's T20I side, saying he was very, very, very happy for his long-time Mumbai teammate and describing the development as a proud moment for Mumbai cricket. Hours after being replaced as captain by Shreyas, Suryakumar came face-to-face with the newly-appointed India skipper during a T20 Mumbai League fixture on Saturday. Suryakumar led Triumph Knights MNE, while Shreyas was part of the SoBo Mumbai Falcons setup as an Impact Substitute. The two Mumbai stalwarts shared a warm hug before the start of the match, reflecting the bond they have built over years of playing together for Mumbai and India. Speaking at the toss, Suryakumar put aside any personal disappointment and congratulated Shreyas on taking charge of the national T20 side. As you said, so many things are happening, but obviously very, very, very happy for Shreyas as he's getting to lead the T20 Indian team. We played a lot of cricket together in Bombay. The most important thing, what I felt, is that three back-to-back Mumbai captains are going to lead T20s for India. I think it's a very proud moment, and everyone needs to celebrate that, Suryakumar said. The comments marked Suryakumar's first public reaction to Shreyas' appointment after the BCCI announced sweeping changes to India's T20I setup earlier in the day. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar had acknowledged that removing Suryakumar from the captaincy was a difficult decision, especially after he guided India to the T20 World Cup title earlier this year. However, the selectors opted for a fresh leadership direction with an eye on the next World Cup cycle, citing Shreyas' strong leadership credentials and consistent performances across formats. Earlier in the day, Suryakumar had also taken to social media to wish the Indian team success, posting a picture of the squad on his Instagram story with the message: Wishing this highly skilled group all the best for challenges ahead. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar had acknowledged that removing Suryakumar from the captaincy was a difficult decision, especially after he guided India to the T20 World Cup title earlier this year. However, the selectors opted for a fresh leadership direction with an eye on the next World Cup cycle, citing Shreyas' strong leadership credentials and consistent performances across formats. Also Read: Live Cricket Score While his tenure as India's T20I captain has come to an end, Suryakumar's public messages throughout the day reflected support for his successor and encouragement for the next generation of Indian cricketers. Article Source: IANS
Bengal T20 League: Writam, Easwaran Power Sobisco Smashers Malda To Easy Win Over Murshidabad Kings
The Bengal T20 League: Riding on a dominant batting display, Sobisco Smashers Malda registered a convincing seven-wicket victory over Murshidabad Kings in the men's competition of Season 3 of the Bengal T20 League at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Saturday. After rain reduced the contest to a 15-overs-a-side affair, Murshidabad Kings batted first and posted a competitive 134/7. Deepanshu led the scoring with a brisk 47 off 33 deliveries, while contributions from the middle order helped the side maintain momentum through the innings. For Malda, Suraj Sindhu Jaiswal starred with the ball, returning impressive figures of 3/18 and keeping the opposition in check during the latter stages of the innings. In response, Sobisco Smashers Malda made light work of the chase. Writam Porel set the tone with an aggressive 50 off 29 balls before Abhimanyu Easwaran anchored the innings with an unbeaten 48 off 31 deliveries. The duo ensured Malda remained firmly in control as they chased down the target, finishing on 138/3 with eight balls to spare. For Murshidabad Kings, Aditya Sharma picked up two wickets, but his efforts were not enough to prevent Malda from securing a comfortable win. The Bengal T20 League is a franchise-based T20 cricket competition organised under the aegis of the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB). Now in its third season, the league has established itself as West Bengal's premier domestic T20 platform, built on the belief that cricket in Bengal has always been more than a sport it is a matter of identity. The league features eight city-based franchises representing the breadth of West Bengal - Adamas Howrah Warriors, Novus Royals Purulia, Kolkata Royal Tigers, Murshidabad Kings & Kueens, Rashmi Nes Medinipur Wizards, Servotech Siliguri Strikers, Shrachi Rarh Tigers, and Sobisco Smashers Malda competing across men's and women's competitions. For Murshidabad Kings, Aditya Sharma picked up two wickets, but his efforts were not enough to prevent Malda from securing a comfortable win. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Murshidabad Kings 134/7 in 15 overs (Deepanshu 47; Suraj Sindhu Jaiswal 3-18) lost to Sobisco Smashers Malda 138/3 in 13.4 overs (Writam Porel 50, Abhimanyu Easwaran 48 not out) by seven wickets Article Source: IANS
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Young pacer Mangesh Yadav may not have featured regularly in Royal Challengers Bengaluru's playing XI, but his time in the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise has provided him with invaluable lessons from some of the biggest names in world cricket. Having shared the dressing room with stalwarts such as Virat Kohli, Josh Hazlewood, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mangesh believes the transition from domestic cricket and tournaments like the Madhya Pradesh League (MPL) to the IPL is defined by the sheer amount of experience available around a young player. Reflecting on the difference between domestic cricket and the IPL environment, Mangesh, RCBs Rs. 5.2 crore buy, said the opportunity to observe and learn from world-class players every day was unlike anything he had experienced before. In domestic cricket, I feel there are some senior players and some youngsters like me who, like in MPL, perform well, learn a little from there, and then play alongside the seniors. There, Rajat was also captaining, so I learnt a little from him. So, there, you learn, and whatever you get, you learn. But when you go from domestic to IPL, you share the dressing room with Virat Kohli, Virat Bhaiya, Josh Hazlewood, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Bhuvi Bhaiya, and all the other players, Mangesh told IANS in an exclusive interaction. The youngster said that interacting with players who have spent years at the highest level helped accelerate his understanding of the game. So, it's good because they have so much experience. Bhuvi bhaiya (Bhuvneshwar Kumar) has at least 200 matches of experience in T20. They have 200 IPL matches. Hoff (Hazlewood) has a lot of experience. So, you get to learn from them daily. Virat Bhaiya also has a lot of experience, he said. While he did not get on-field opportunities, Mangesh said that even observing games closely from the sidelines offered important lessons about team culture and a winning mentality. I didn't get a chance to play in the field. But when we used to go in as waterboys and talk about matches, it felt very intact that you don't want to leave the match in the middle, and you want to play as a team. Not a single moment felt like we had won. Until the match is won, you want to play as a team. So, that felt really good. So, I got to learn a lot in this IPL, Mangesh stated. Among the many memories from the season, Mangesh highlighted RCB's title-winning moment as one he will never forget. There are a lot of moments. The first one is the trophy. When we won the trophy, it was a next-level feeling. Before that, it felt normal to win a match, even the final. But when we won the trophy, it felt very different. It felt special, he said. Beyond the celebrations, he pointed to the willingness of senior players to guide younger teammates as one of the defining aspects of the dressing room. The second thing is that, in every moment, I learned from a player. If there was a doubt, I asked Josh Hazlewood what we could do in that situation. He explained it to me with a lot of love, saying we could do this. It was mind-blowing for me because I wasn't even thinking about it. Then he explained it to me, and I thought yes, we could do this too, he said. Mangesh said similar interactions with Bhuvneshwar Kumar helped him solve technical and tactical issues quickly. The same thing happened with Bhuvi Bhaiya. I was lagging in a few things. I asked him a few things, and he told me that if I did this, it would be good. So it got better immediately. Then I felt that it was very good. I learned a lot. The things that were troubling me, they had so much experience. So they had a solution. Whatever happened, I would go and ask immediately. That, Bhuvi Bhaiya, this is happening. And this is happening. So he would give me a solution immediately, Mangesh said of Bhuvneshwar. Despite spending much of the season outside the playing XI, Mangesh said the coaching staff constantly reminded him to remain match-ready. I was always told that you have to be prepared. DK sir and Andy sir told me that you have to be prepared. You can play a match anytime. If anyone gets injured, you are going to play. So, they told me that you can play anytime. The message shaped his preparation throughout the tournament. So, I had to be prepared for every match. So, I used to go to every practice session in the same way. I used to practise. Now, what happened is not in our hands. And, a very good team combination was formed. So, the team kept going in the same way, he stated. For Mangesh, the team's larger objective remained more important than individual opportunities. And, we all have the same motive. The motive for our going to the IPL is to win the trophy. So, that was the main motive. And I was prepared that, whenever I got a chance, as the coach had told me, I could play whenever something happened. So, I was prepared in the same way. Having played under Rajat Patidar at both RCB and MPL, where he represents JK sports-owned Gwalior Cheetahs, Mangesh reserved special praise for the captain's man-management skills and calm demeanour. Some people have still said this on social media. But what I would like to say is that it is completely pressure-free to play under him, he noted. According to Mangesh, Patidar's greatest strength lies in trusting players and backing their instincts. He gives plans. First, he asks for our plan. If you give another plan to a bowler, he will not be able to do it at all, because he also has a plan. So, it happened to me in the Mushtaq Ali Trophy as well. I got a little run on my plan. So, he gave his plan, saying, You can do this now. And I followed his plan and got a wicket there. The approach, he said, continued in the MPL as well. Like, I played in the last MPL match. So, he asked me for my plan, and I did well on it. So, he doesn't have any such attitude, and neither is he egoistic, saying I am the captain. He doesn't look like that at all. Mangesh also highlighted Patidar's composure during difficult phases of a game. And the second thing is that when the bowler gets hit, the captain shouts a lot. But he is not like that at all. He is completely calm. If he gets hit on that plan, he gives another plan. And if you execute it, he says nothing at all. Like, if you execute it well, it's fine. If you did it wrong, he himself says that it was wrong. For a fast bowler operating under pressure, such support can make a significant difference. So, that is one thing. He doesn't give any expression at all. Because as a bowler, I feel that if I bowl and get a six, my first look goes to my captain to see what he has to say. And he is not like that at all. He doesn't get angry at all. So, it feels very motivating that, yes, something like this is not happening. Asked about the biggest lesson from being part of a title-winning dressing room, Mangesh pointed to one quality above all else: discipline. The biggest learning was that everyone was very disciplined about their work. Everyone is having fun, but they know that when we go to the ground, we have to react, be aggressive, and be on our game. It is very chill outside. The best thing was the discipline of all the players. He observed that elite players stick to routines regardless of circumstances. Everyone is doing their thing daily. It is not like they are doing something different every day. So the discipline I saw is why they are completely different. Using Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar as examples, Mangesh explained how attention to small details separates top professionals from the rest. Like, Josh Hazlewood comes, and he does his warm-up first. Then he goes and bowls. It is not like he wont warm up if hes feeling good on a particular day. Same with Bhuvi. He does everything first, then comes to the ground. And I think there is no such thing as a big thing. Because small things make it big. We always take our warm-up lightly. Like, I will bowl or whatever. But that is the most important role for a player. That you warm up well. So I liked that, he said. The discussion on discipline inevitably led to Virat, as Mangesh agreed, Kohli has given a different definition to discipline, because everyone knows about his discipline and how seriously he takes everything. Looking ahead, Mangesh is focused on becoming a fully professional after securing an IPL contract. I have planned many strategies for how I want to improve. And I am still playing MPL, so I don't have that much time. But I am talking to my mentor. This time, he is the team's trainer, so I am playing with him. I have done a gym session with him, he said. He added that better resources and structured planning have strengthened his confidence. So I am working on those things gradually, and I have planned everything. Because RCB has given me so much money. So I have to become a pro. And I am absolutely ready for that. And I am feeling good. Now, the things I want, the things that were lacking, are now easily available. So this time, I absolutely feel I will reach the next level. Be it fitness or bodybuilding, Mangesh stated. As for his performances in the ongoing MPL, where his economy rate has been on the higher side in the opening matches, Mangesh remains unconcerned and believes it is only a matter of time before rhythm returns. I feel that you can say every day is not the same in cricket. Sometimes, you get hit. Sometimes, you don't. But in the last two games, I have felt that it is just that runs are being conceded. I am doing well. Some things are happening here and there, Mangesh expressed. As for his performances in the ongoing MPL, where his economy rate has been on the higher side in the opening matches, Mangesh remains unconcerned and believes it is only a matter of time before rhythm returns. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Confident that there are no major issues in his game, Mangesh is backing himself to improve as the tournament progresses. As for the rest, I don't feel that anything is missing, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
Women's T20 World Cup 2026 warm-up: Kapp, Wolvaardt take SA past Ireland
Scotland thumped Netherlands by 58 runs in Derby as Fraser, Fontenla and Maqsood shared seven wickets
MPL T20 Scindia Cup: Rewa Bowl Out Bundelkhand Bulls For 74 For 9 Wickets Win
Madhya Pradesh League: Rewa Jaguars produced a clinical all-round display to outclass Bundelkhand Bulls by nine wickets in the Madhya Pradesh League (MPL) T20 Scindia Cup 2026 at the Holkar Stadium in Indore on Saturday. After winning the toss and opting to bowl, the Jaguars seized control of the contest from the outset. Bundelkhand Bulls captain and opener Abhishek Pathak survived a scare when a catch was dropped off the very first ball of the innings, but Rewa quickly made amends. Ramveer Gujjar struck on the next delivery to remove Harsh Gawali for a golden duck, giving his side the perfect start. The early breakthrough triggered a collapse as the Bulls failed to recover from the pressure applied by the Jaguars' disciplined bowling attack. Wickets fell at regular intervals, preventing the batting side from building any meaningful partnerships. By the 12th over, Bundelkhand Bulls were reeling at 58/6 and never managed to regain momentum. Ramveer Gujjar emerged as the pick of the bowlers with figures of 3 for 16 in 2.3 overs. He received excellent support from Sagar Solanki, Rohit Rajawat, and Prithviraj Singh Tomar, who claimed two wickets apiece as the Jaguars bundled out Bundelkhand Bulls for just 74 in 15.3 overs. Amid the collapse, Parth Goswami was the lone bright spot for the Bulls. The batter showed some resilience and fought his way to 25 runs off 30 balls before being trapped lbw by Rohit Rajawat. He was the only player from his side to reach double figures, underlining the extent of the batting struggles. Ramveer Gujjar emerged as the pick of the bowlers with figures of 3 for 16 in 2.3 overs. He received excellent support from Sagar Solanki, Rohit Rajawat, and Prithviraj Singh Tomar, who claimed two wickets apiece as the Jaguars bundled out Bundelkhand Bulls for just 74 in 15.3 overs. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Thanks to Raghuwanshi's blistering innings, Rewa Jaguars raced to the target in just 5.1 overs, finishing on 75/1 and sealing a commanding nine-wicket victory. The comprehensive win showcased the Jaguars' dominance with both ball and bat as they wrapped up the match in emphatic fashion. Article Source: IANS
Mumbai South Central Maratha Royals: Tushar Deshpande produced a sensational all-round performance to guide Mumbai South Central Maratha Royals to a 25-run victory over Bandra Blasters in the T20 Mumbai League 2026 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Saturday. Tushar emerged as the difference-maker, first rescuing the Royals with an unbeaten 55 off just 25 balls before returning figures of 2/12 in three overs. His all-round effort proved decisive as the Royals successfully defended 203/8. Chasing the target, the Blasters were led by their top order. Skipper Suved Parkar continued his fine form with 56 off 40 balls, his third half-century of the tournament, along with a century earlier in the season. Prateek Ravishankar provided early momentum with a brisk 47 off 22 deliveries along with Parkar, while Jay Jain added a quickfire 46 off 23 balls. The trio kept Bandra in the hunt for most of the chase, but once they were dismissed, the innings quickly lost momentum. The middle and lower order failed to build on the platform, with eight batters managing single-digit scores as Bandra were bowled out for 178 in 17.5 overs, thanks to some quality bowling by the Royals. Earlier, the Royals had slipped to 36/3 inside the first five overs after being asked to bat. Ayaz Khan (31) and Chinmay Sutar (31) made useful contributions but failed to convert their starts. With wickets falling regularly, Tushar played a brilliant rescue act, smashing six sixes in his unbeaten knock and sharing a crucial 73-run stand with Rohan Raje (28), lifting the Royals to a strong total. The trio kept Bandra in the hunt for most of the chase, but once they were dismissed, the innings quickly lost momentum. The middle and lower order failed to build on the platform, with eight batters managing single-digit scores as Bandra were bowled out for 178 in 17.5 overs, thanks to some quality bowling by the Royals. Also Read: Live Cricket Score MSC Maratha Royals 203/7 in 20 overs (Tushar Deshpande 55 not out, Chinmay Sutar 31, Ayaz Khan 31; Om Keshkamat 2/28) beat Bandra Blasters 178 in 17.5 overs (Suved Parker 56, Prateek Ravishankar 47; Tushar Deshpande 2/12) by 25 runs. Article Source: IANS
UPDATE 1-Tennis-Andreeva comes of age with Roland Garros triumph over surprise package Chwalinska
The 19-year-old Russian swept aside surprise finalist Maja Chwalinska 6-3 6-2 on a blustery Court Philippe Chatrier, where the Pole appeared frozen by the magnitude of the occasion
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New Zealand lose Rachin Ravindra and Daryl Mitchell in the 9.4 overs of play possible before tea
Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket: India opener KL Rahul said he deliberately avoided curbing his natural strokeplay while making the transition from T20 cricket to the Test format, a mindset that helped him compile a patient century on the opening day of the one-off Test against Afghanistan. Rahul's 100, along with captain Shubman Gill's unbeaten 103 and Sai Sudharsan's 81, powered India to a commanding 368/3 at stumps on Day 1 at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium. Reflecting on the challenge of moving from months of T20 cricket straight into the longest format, Rahul admitted that overthinking can often become a trap for batters. Sometimes you sit and overanalyse and try to play completely differently to T20 cricket. Something that I consciously tried was not to restrict my shots, but also be aware of what kind of shots I can play on this wicket against what kind of bowlers, Rahul said after the day's play. The right-hander revealed that maintaining a balance between attacking instincts and Test-match discipline was central to his preparation. That's something that I thought about in the last week leading up to this Test match. That's what I tried to do. In the morning, I think I did play a few shots more than what I would have played ideally, but it didn't make me frustrated or angry at myself. Rahul said he was keen to continue backing his strengths rather than become overly cautious simply because he was playing red-ball cricket. I was okay with playing shots and playing to the merit of the ball. That's what I was trying to do more, he added. The opener also expressed satisfaction at how quickly he was able to adjust from the fast-paced nature of the IPL to the patience required in Test cricket. I'm really happy that I could get some time in the middle and make that switch from T20 to Test cricket in a couple of days. That was the most pleasing thing. Rahul credited India's preparation in New Chandigarh for helping him understand the nature of the surface before the match. It wasn't coming on at all. It was a really slow and low sort of wicket, which we did expect. We had a few days of training here, and it was pretty similar to this. I had to get used to spending time in the middle and letting the ball come to you. Rahul credited India's preparation in New Chandigarh for helping him understand the nature of the surface before the match. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Rahul's century, his 12th in Tests, anchored India's innings after an early wicket and set the platform for a dominant opening day against Afghanistan. Article Source: IANS
WI vs SL 2nd ODI: Preview, Predicted XIs, Player Tips & Match Prediction
WI vs SL 2nd ODI Cricket Tips : Sri Lanka had a great start to the tour of West Indies. They clinched a 41-run win in the first ODI over West Indies in Jamaica. Captain Kusal Mendis took his team to a comfortable win, while Pathum Nissanka and Dusmantha Chameera played important roles in the wins. Sri Lanka will take that confidence into the second ODI, which will begin at 1 AM IST on Sunday at Sabina Park in Kingston. West Indies need this win to stay alive in the series. But the bigger issue with them is the consistency. Shai Hope and his men will look for a better show to level the series. WI vs SL: Match Details Date : June 7, 2026 (Sunday) Time : 1:00 AM IST Venue : Sabina Park, Kingston, Jamaica WI vs SL: Live Streaming Details Indian fans can watch the WI vs SL 2nd ODI in India through the FanCode mobile app or website. WI vs SL: Head-to-Head in ODI Total Matches : 69 West Indies : 32 Sri Lanka : 34 No - result : 03 Tied : 00 WI vs SL: Ground Pitch Report The wicket played well in the first game, and one can expect another good track for the second game. But traditionally this is a slow track, and the wicket will get slow with time. The team that bats second has done well here in ODIs. WI vs SL: Possible XIs West Indies : Justin Greaves, John Campbell, Shai Hope (c & wk), Keacy Carty, Sherfane Rutherford, Gudakesh Motie, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, Jayden Seales. Sri Lanka : Pathum Nissanka, Kamindu Mendis, Kusal Mendis (c & wk), Charith Asalanka, Pavan Rathnayake, Janith Liyanage, Priyanath Rathnayake, Wanindu Hasaranga, Milan Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Asitha Fernando. WI vs SL: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Kusal Mendis and Shai Hope are two in-form batters in this game. They will be the ones to watch out for. Probable Best Bowler Matthew Forde and Dushmantha Chameera did well in the first game and used the conditions brilliantly. Today Match Prediction : Sri Lanka have the momentum and form on their side. Hence, we predict Sri Lanka to win the 2nd ODI. WI vs SL Match 2nd ODI, Today Match WI vs SL, WI vs SL Prediction, WI vs SL Predicted XIs, Injury Update for West Indies vs Sri Lanka Match 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
Gen Next Academy: On a fine Saturday afternoon, Manish Ojha was doing what he has done for a long time making his students go through their paces at his Gen Next Academy in the Sampatchak area of Patna. Amidst the focus on the trainees perfecting their craft in the afternoon training session, Ojha got a call from Sanjeev Sooryavanshi. The message was short, but electric: his son Vaibhav Sooryavanshi got his India senior mens T20I call-up to tours of Ireland, England, and the Asian Games event in Japan. Hearing that, Ojha was left really delighted and congratulated Sanjeev. It was expected that, the way Vaibhav was performing well in the T20 format, he would get the call-up. He performed well in the U-19 World Cup win and then showed his explosive strokeplay in the IPL. So, it was quite obvious and expected for me that he would be given a chance. But when he would be given a chance, I had no idea. Now that it has come, it's a great moment. After I congratulated his father, he, in return, congratulated me, Ojha recalled in an exclusive conversation with IANS on Saturday. The mutual congratulations felt earned because what Sooryavanshi has done at 15 years of age isn't merely precocious - it is historic. In the words of chief selector Ajit Agarkar, Sooryavanshi had almost forced his way into the T20I squad. It's not hard to see why. In the 2026 IPL, Sooryavanshi made a staggering 776 runs at a strike rate of 237.30, and single-handedly dragged Rajasthan Royals to Qualifier 2. He hit 72 sixes - breaking Chris Gayle's record for the most maximums in a single season. He became the first player in IPL history to be named both the Most Valuable Player and the Best Emerging Player. Before any of that, Sooryavanshi wowed the world by walking out and making a whirlwind 175 from 80 balls - 15 fours, 15 sixes, the highest ever individual score in an ICC World Cup final - as India posted 411/9. He finished the tournament with 439 runs at a competition-best strike rate of 169.49, a World Cup-record 30 sixes, and the Player of the Final as well as Player of the Tournament awards in his pocket. Before those senior assignments, he will line up for India A in the 50-over tri-series in Sri Lanka from June 9-21. He is, by some distance, the youngest player selected in an Indian men's squad since a teenage Sachin Tendulkar announced himself to the world in 1989. Back in Patna, Ojha doesn't need match footage or highlight reels to remember how the Sooryavanshi journey began - the memories in his mind are sharper than anything. I often talk to Sanjeev ji about the journey from the start to the present. All of those memories are still vivid in my mind - the first time I met him, the first practice session he did under me, him coming to the academy and going back home - all these memories appear in front of my eyes now. Not just in Bihar, there are thousands of cricket coaches in India. But it was God's will that Vaibhav's father came to me with him at my academy. It was God's grace that he made me capable enough to put in a lot of hard work on Vaibhav and invest heavily in him. It is all due to God's blessings that Vaibhav has reached a very high level and made me very proud. Without God's grace, all these things don't happen in life. What strikes Ojha most isn't just the talent - it's the trajectory of Sooryavanshis improvement in 2026. The improvement has been visible, quantifiable, and almost startling in its consistency. His level of maturity is improving at every level. His execution capacity in terms of stroke play is improving. There are a lot of differences between playing at a local, state, and international level. But Vaibhav has maintained the intent of their game on all three platforms. In fact, I would say that you can clearly see the improvement in their strength. All the experts who have seen him play can easily point out the difference between how he batted in the first IPL and the second IPL. When he played the initial matches of U-19, after he reached there for the first time and from then to the difference in his game in the World Cup, there has been a lot of difference in terms of maturity, shot selection, and execution. Day by day, Vaibhav is growing as a player. He is improving his skill sets and executing them better. You can see his performance - it has improved by three times since the last IPL. Yet, for all the records and the fanfare and the historic comparisons to Tendulkar, Ojha is careful not to let the moment be mistaken for the destination. I would say that this is the first step in the ladder for Vaibhav after earning selection into the T20I team, as he has to serve Team India for a long time. When he played the initial matches of U-19, after he reached there for the first time and from then to the difference in his game in the World Cup, there has been a lot of difference in terms of maturity, shot selection, and execution. Day by day, Vaibhav is growing as a player. He is improving his skill sets and executing them better. You can see his performance - it has improved by three times since the last IPL. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Fifteen years old - barely old enough to remember Dhoni lifting the 2011 World Cup, and yet hes the most enthralling batting talent since Tendulkar captured the worlds attention. Hes already rewriting records and becoming the batting lynchpin in a line-up with more established batters. Sooryavanshi's ladder to a permanent India berth has only just appeared, and Ojha already knows where it leads to and how long this dizzying climb will last. Article Source: IANS
Who Is Manav Suthar? The Story Of Rajasthan Spinner Making Test Debut For India Against Afghanistan
Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket: Rajasthan spin-bowling all-rounder Manav Suthar's steady rise through the domestic ranks reached a defining milestone on Saturday when he made his Test debut for India in the one-off match against Afghanistan at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium. The 23-year-old left-arm spinner was named in India's playing XI ahead of fellow spin-bowling all-rounder Harsh Dubey, ending speculation over who would get the nod as the team management looked to assess options ahead of the upcoming two-Test tour of Sri Lanka. Suthar received Test cap No. 319 from senior spinner Kuldeep Yadav, becoming India's first specialist spin-bowling Test debutant since Axar Patel made his debut in 2021. Hailing from Rajasthan and having sharpened his skills through the state's domestic circuit, Suthar has built an impressive first-class record. In 29 first-class matches, he has claimed 129 wickets, establishing himself as one of the country's most promising young spinners. He has also featured in 25 List-A matches and 29 T20 games. Earlier this year, Suthar was part of the Gujarat Titans setup in IPL 2026 under the leadership of India's Test captain Shubman Gill, further enhancing his exposure to top-level cricket. His talent had also come into the spotlight during India's preparations for the 2023 ODI World Cup, where he reportedly impressed senior stars Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli while working as a net bowler. An admirer of Ravichandran Ashwin, Suthar's ability to generate a sharp turn and extract bite from the surface has earned praise from several cricketing experts. Ashwin himself had highlighted the youngster's ability to impart significant revolutions on the ball, identifying him as a spinner with immense potential. Moments after receiving his maiden Test cap, an emotional Suthar admitted that fulfilling his childhood dream was difficult to put into words. I can't even express these emotions in words. To be honest, it's the best feeling of my life so far. A Test cap is a dream for every cricketer. It gave me a lot of motivation, and receiving this cap from a legend like Kuldeep bhai, who has served Team India for so long, makes me very grateful, Suthar said in a video shared by the BCCI. Presenting the cap, Kuldeep welcomed the youngster into the Indian dressing room and urged him to trust his strengths on the biggest stage. Cap number 319, Manav Suthar. Firstly, congratulations on making your Test debut for India. It's my privilege to present you with this cap. This is a very special moment in your cricket journey, and we wish you all the very best. We hope you have a long and successful Test career. Presenting the cap, Kuldeep welcomed the youngster into the Indian dressing room and urged him to trust his strengths on the biggest stage. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With India beginning a transition phase in their spin department and preparing for challenging conditions in Sri Lanka later this year, Suthar now has an opportunity to convert years of domestic consistency into a long-term international career. Article Source: IANS
Suryakumar Responds To Captaincy Axe With Message For Team India, Congratulates Vaibhav
T20 World Cup: India's T20 World Cup winner Suryakumar Yadav has broken his silence after being removed as the men's T20I captain, extending his best wishes to the national team and congratulating teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi on earning his maiden international call-up. Hours after the BCCI announced Shreyas Iyer as India's new T20I captain and left Suryakumar out of the squads for the upcoming tours of Ireland, England, and the Asian Games, the 35-year-old took to social media for the first time. In an Instagram story, Suryakumar shared a photograph of the Indian team and wrote, Wishing this highly skilled group all the best for the challenges ahead. The brief message came shortly after chief selector Ajit Agarkar described the decision to move on from Suryakumar as captain as a ough one, despite him leading India to the T20 World Cup title earlier this year. With regards to Surya, obviously, it's a tough one, having just won the World Cup. Someone who's led you to the World Cup, it's not the easiest thing to try and change, Agarkar said in the press conference. Suryakumars recent struggles with the bat also influenced the decision. The 35-year-old endured a lean T20 World Cup campaign and followed it up with a disappointing IPL 2026 season, scoring 270 runs in 13 innings as the Mumbai Indians finished ninth. Suryakumar also reserved special praise for 15-year-old batting prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who was named in India's T20I squad on Saturday following a sensational IPL campaign. Sharing a separate message on social media, Suryakumar wrote, You have earned it and how. Super excited to follow your journey. Suryakumar also reserved special praise for 15-year-old batting prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who was named in India's T20I squad on Saturday following a sensational IPL campaign. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The teenager is now on the verge of creating history. If he makes his international debut during the upcoming series, Vaibhav could become India's youngest-ever international cricketer, surpassing the record held by legendary batter Sachin Tendulkar, who made his Test debut at the age of 16 years and 205 days in 1989. Article Source: IANS
Got High Hopes From Sooryavanshi, I Think He Just Has Picked Himself Really, Says Agarkar
Secretary Devajit Saikia: India's chief selector Ajit Agarkar said he had high hopes for teenage batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi after giving him a maiden T20I call-up to tours of Ireland, England, and the Asian Games, adding the youngster had picked himself into the squad with his explosive IPL 2026 performances. Sooryavanshi had a stellar IPL 2026 for the Rajasthan Royals and was the leading run-getter in the competition with 776 runs, including a hundred and five half-centuries. He also bagged the most valuable player and emerging player of the competition awards in the competition. What do you say, we've seen what he can do. You saw, even towards those playoffs, almost singlehandedly carried the Rajasthan Royals. For a young kid, I don't need to talk about how well he's batting or how well he's playing. It's not just this season. He's obviously made a great start last season. To back it up for a young kid in a competition that's as competitive and has a highpressure environment, and how explosive he can be, and a gamechanger that he can be. So we've, like everyone else that's watched cricket, or at least watched T20 cricket in India, we've got high hopes of him, and I think he just has picked himself really, said Agarkar in the press conference at the BCCI HQ on Saturday. Sooryavanshis selection comes after he landed in Sri Lanka as a member of the India A team for the 50-over triseries starting on June 9 in Dambulla. Secretary Devajit Saikia said the priority would be to send Sooryavanshi to Ireland and England, while adding that selectors and technical staff are monitoring his every step to ensure his future is handled with care. But we can all see what kind of talent he has, and we're hopeful that if and when he gets an opportunity to actually play for the country, he shows the same sort of ability that he's shown. Obviously, there will be tougher challenges when you play for your country, but he's shown great promise and temperament. So we're all very hopeful, like everyone is. I think he's picked himself through his performances. You always deliberate, because, like the question before, there's so much talent around, especially when it comes to T20 cricket at this point, but it tells you a lot that his performances have made us pick him, and we're very hopeful. With regards to red ball, I mean, he's a kid, and let him just be as he's just starting his journey. I'm sure when the season starts, the domestic season starts, and he plays for his team, plays a little bit of red ball cricket, we'll wait and observe at this point, why jump the gun? I think we're very excited with what he's doing in T20 cricket. Hopefully, we as selectors or the BCCI and the coaching staff can help him push in the right direction. So at this point, we're just focused on, you know, what he can bring to the T20 team, and we'll take one step at a time, elaborated Agarkar. On Rajat Patidar missing out on selection despite being in stellar form to help Royal Challengers Bengaluru defend their IPL title, Agarkar said, You discuss a host of players when you sit there. I don't think you just sit and put 15 names down. So that's always the case. We think all these 15 players are deserving. I think there are a lot of good players in India. We've seen over the last couple of months in the IPL, or if you follow domestic cricket through the season, there are plenty of guys who are you'd think they're good enough to walk into the team. But the guys who are playing are doing as well as we just won a World Cup a couple of months back. So no, I think we picked a really good one. 16 for the Ireland and England series and 15 for the Asian Games. There'll always be players missing out, but like I said, you can only pick 15, and we're very happy with this one. On Jasprit Bumrahs inclusion for the Asian Games, he said, We know how important he is. Plus the WTC cycle, we've still got a chance to enter the final. If he plays well enough over these next nine Tests, this one is not part of WTC, the Afghanistan one. But if you can have Jasprit play the majority of those games and still keep him fit and healthy, it's always the thing. I mean, there's a lot of T20 cricket. You can always bring him back. Asian Games he will be there. So, the main aim is to try and keep him fit for the Tests and the one-dayers. I don't know whether worry is the right word, but we obviously need to improve our (Test) performances. I think England was good and the South African series probably didn't go to plan, but we still have a chance if we play well enough. We know we've got the players, but we've got to play better. On Hardik Pandya not named in T20I squads, Agarkar said, With regards to Hardik, firstly, he's part of the oneday squad right now against Afghanistan. Obviously, if we can get him playing well and keep him fit for oneday cricket, I don't think he's played oneday cricket for a while. That is, at this point, the main objective. We can always bring him back. It also gives us an opportunity to give someone like Nitish Reddy a few opportunities with T20 cricket. So there will be a little bit of rest and rotation with regard to T20. But the main objective is to see if he can start playing well and stay healthy with 50over cricket with the World Cup in, what, a year and a half. He gives us a lot of balance. The World Cup is in South Africa. If he's bowling well enough, I mean, we'll assess how we go in the next few months. That's primarily the reason at this point. On Prince Yadav being included in T20I teams for the Ireland and England series, Agarkar said, It's domestic performance, really. We saw him in the Vijay Hazare Trophy enough this year, and he looked impressive. I don't think he played a lot of red ball cricket last year, but the white ball stuff was really good. Then to back it up in the IPL against really good quality batters - when you play a lot of games in the IPL, it's always going to be up and down, particularly when most teams get 200 for fun these days. So, he can bowl under pressure, which is the first thing that you try and see if a guy can do that day in, day out, and has the skill set, obviously can move the ball, bowls towards the end of the innings. On Prince Yadav being included in T20I teams for the Ireland and England series, Agarkar said, It's domestic performance, really. We saw him in the Vijay Hazare Trophy enough this year, and he looked impressive. I don't think he played a lot of red ball cricket last year, but the white ball stuff was really good. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Not first time, we've seen him before, but he bowled well this season, and that caught our eye, and so he was always there in our planning. This Afghanistan series coming up gives us an opportunity to see what he can do in 50over cricket, but in T20, we've all seen that. He's got the skill set. So, again, like the guys that we picked, they're always hopeful. Article Source: IANS
One-off-Test: 'Apart From That Technical Flaw, Sai Sudharsan Looked Very Composed', Says Saba Karim
Sai Sudharsan: Former India wicketkeeper-batter Saba Karim praised Sai Sudharsans composure during his fluent innings against Afghanistan in the one-off Test but pointed out a technical issue against spin bowling that he believes will be closely monitored by India head coach Gautam Gambhir. Sudharsan, who was handed the crucial No. 3 role by the team management, made a confident 81 after surviving an early reprieve when Afghanistan wicketkeeper Rahmanullah Gurbaz failed to hold a chance created by an outside edge. Karim said India's struggles against quality spin in recent times made Sudharsans technique an area of interest for the coaching staff. Gautam Gambhir would be keeping a very close eye on this because I think the biggest challenge for the Indian batters over the past season has been how they cope against high-quality spin bowling, Karim told Jio Hotstar. The former selector noted that Sudharsan was fortunate to survive after a technical lapse against spin. On this occasion, Sai Sudharsan appeared to be hiding his bat behind the pad, which suggested that his first line of defence was the pad rather than the bat. That resulted in a thick outside edge, which Rahmanullah Gurbaz should have taken at first slip, he observed. Despite that moment, Karim was impressed by the left-handers overall temperament and shot-making during his innings. Apart from that technical flaw, he looked very composed overall and played a few delightful shots on the on side, including a straight drive. His shot selection and the way he adjusted to the pace and bounce of the surface were quite good, he said. Despite that moment, Karim was impressed by the left-handers overall temperament and shot-making during his innings. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Sudharsans assured 81 underlined why India have persisted with the young left-hander at No. 3, with his innings playing a key role in helping the hosts build a strong platform against Afghanistan despite the missed chance that could have ended his stay much earlier. Article Source: IANS
One-off Test: KL Rahul, Gill Hit Tons As India End Day One At 368/3 Against Afghanistan
Opener KL Rahul: Opener KL Rahul and captain Shubman Gill struck commanding centuries after B. Sai Sudharsan impressed with a fluent 81 as India ended the opening day of the one-off Test against Afghanistan in a dominant position at 368/3 in 85 overs on Friday. After opting to bat, India were tested early by Afghanistan's disciplined pace attack. Yashasvi Jaiswal looked positive in his 24 off 32 balls, hitting five boundaries, but fell to Mohammad Saleem Safi after edging a leg-side delivery to wicketkeeper Afsar Zazai, leaving India at 41/1. Rahul, meanwhile, endured a difficult start and survived a major scare on 16 when Afghanistan declined to review a caught-behind appeal despite an edge. The experienced opener gradually settled alongside Sai Sudharsan, who looked assured from the outset, though he offered a chance that was spilt by Rahmanullah Gurbaz before lunch. India reached 96/1 at the interval, with Rahul and Sai beginning to wrest control from the visitors. The second session belonged entirely to the pair. Rahul emerged with greater intent after lunch and brought up his 21st Test fifty, while Sai continued to impress with his composure against both pace and spin. The left-hander used the sweep effectively against the spinners and rotated the strike smartly as the partnership crossed three figures. Afghanistan's bowlers worked hard without much reward, though Saleem Safi generated reverse swing and created opportunities. Sai survived another chance on 59 when an outside edge evaded the diving wicketkeeper, while Rahul escaped an lbw review thanks to a faint inside edge. The breakthrough finally arrived when Saleem Safi dismissed Sai for a well-crafted 81 off 104 balls, ending a superb 139-run second-wicket stand that had transformed India's position. Gill settled quickly at No. 4 and provided immediate momentum with a series of crisp boundaries. By Tea, India had advanced to 209/2, with Rahul unbeaten on 81 and Gill looking increasingly comfortable. The final session further tilted the contest in India's favour. Rahul completed his 12th Test century, reaching the landmark with a flick for two runs before eventually falling for exactly 100, caught behind by Gurbaz off Ziaur Rahman Sharifi. It was the third successive occasion he had been dismissed on the century mark. Gill then assumed control, batting with authority and patience to bring up a century of his own. Alongside him, Rishabh Pant curbed his natural aggression to compile an unbeaten 50 as the pair added an unbroken century partnership. Home boy Gill remained unbeaten on 103, while Pant was not out on 50, leaving India firmly in command heading into Day 2. Gill then assumed control, batting with authority and patience to bring up a century of his own. Alongside him, Rishabh Pant curbed his natural aggression to compile an unbeaten 50 as the pair added an unbroken century partnership. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India 368/3 in 85 overs (Shubman Gill 103*, KL Rahul 100, Sai Sudharsan 81; Mohammad Saleem Safi 2-50) against Afghanistan. Article Source: IANS
BCA President Harsh Vardhan Congratulates Sooryavanshi On India Selection
Bihar Cricket Association President Harsh: Congratulating Vaibhav Sooryavanshi on his selection to the Indian team, Bihar Cricket Association President Harsh Vardhan described it as a historic achievement for Bihar cricket. He said that Vaibhav's success reflects not only his individual talent and dedication but also the continuous growth of cricket in Bihar and the emergence of exceptional talent from the state. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's selection in the Indian team is a historic achievement for Bihar cricket. This is not just the success of an individual player but a reflection of the continuous growth of cricket in Bihar, the hard work of our players, and the emergence of exceptional talent from the state. Vaibhav has proven through his performances that cricketers from Bihar have the ability to succeed at the highest level. I am confident that he will make a significant impact on the Indian team and continue to bring pride to both the country and Bihar. I extend my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to him for a bright international career, Harsh Vardhan said. With this selection, Vaibhav Sorryavanshi is set to represent India for the first time and make his international T20 debut. Having emerged from Bihar and showcased his talent at both the national and international levels, Vaibhav Suryavanshi captured the attention of the cricketing world with his outstanding performances in IPL 2026. Representing the Rajasthan Royals, he displayed aggressive batting throughout the season and finished as the tournament's highest run-scorer, winning the Orange Cap. Vaibhav also set a new IPL record by smashing 72 sixes during the season, the most by any batter in a single IPL edition. Having emerged from Bihar and showcased his talent at both the national and international levels, Vaibhav Suryavanshi captured the attention of the cricketing world with his outstanding performances in IPL 2026. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Bihar Cricket Association secretary Ziaul Arfin said, Vaibhav Suryavanshi's achievement is an inspiration for millions of young cricketers in Bihar. He has reached this milestone through talent, discipline, and relentless hard work. His performances in the IPL were extraordinary, and his selection to the Indian team marks an important chapter in his cricketing journey. We are confident that Vaibhav will make valuable contributions to the Indian team and establish himself among the country's leading cricketers in the years to come. On behalf of the Bihar Cricket Association, I extend my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes for his bright future. Article Source: IANS
Shreyas Was A Stand-out Candidate With Enough Experience Now, Tough Call On Surya, Says Agarkar
T20 World Cup: India chief selector Ajit Agarkar said Shreyas Iyer was a standout candidate with the experience to become the new mens T20I skipper, while admitting it was a tough call to move on altogether from Suryakumar Yadav despite him leading the team to winning the World Cup three months ago. Suryakumar, 35, has struggled with the bat in recent months, managing only 242 runs in nine T20 World Cup innings, with his unbeaten 84 against the United States the lone standout. His form dipped further in IPL 2026, where he scored just 270 runs in 13 innings at an average of 20.76 as Mumbai Indians finished ninth in the tenteam points table. With Shreyas taking over, Suryakumar has been totally omitted from the squads for tours of Ireland, England and the Asian Games. Iyer, 31, last played a T20I in December 2023 but boasts of strong captaincy credentials in the IPL. He led Kolkata Knight Riders to the title in 2024, guided Punjab Kings to a runnersup finish in 2025, and steered Delhi Capitals to the final in 2020. I mean, with regards to Shreyas, obviously, we've seen what he's done over the last few years, leading different franchises, obviously, won once, finals twice, and probably had a tougher season this year after a great start. So we've seen everything that a captain possibly can. His own performances have been really good. He was quite close to getting in that World Cup squad as well. Obviously, with Surya still there, there was no room for him. So he is, in my opinion, a standout candidate with enough experience now having led in the T20 format. This is obviously a different challenge, said Agarkar in the press conference at BCCI HQ on Saturday. On Suryakumars removal, Agarkar admitted it was a tough call. With regards to Surya, obviously, it's a tough one, having just won the World Cup. But as it happens, after most World Cups, you try and reassess what your best way forward is. Partly his own form, but also looking at the next twoyear cycle or a little bit more than two years now till the next World Cup. We thought this was the best way forward and like I said, Surya is a welldeserving captain. I mean, of course, it's a tough decision. Someone who's led you to the World Cup, it's not the easiest thing to try and change. But like I said, we've not had any international cricket after that World Cup. Partly the form, but partly also how we go forward is always at the back of your mind. Going ahead with a new captain, in this case, Shreyas, was in our opinion, added Agarkar. Tilak Varma has been named as the new vicecaptain and Agarkar stated it was another call made keeping the long-term vision in mind. I mean, Shubman Gill was vicecaptain leading into that World Cup when we made a call to obviously have two keepers at the top and he missed out. Then Axar Patel was vicecaptain and just replacing Shubman Gill. So, no, I think we were, again, like Shreyas Iyer, obviously you're looking at what's the best thing for the next twoyear cycle. Tilak, firstly, he's a terrific player and this gives him an opportunity to learn the job as well, just in case if that need arises ever. Further speaking on Shreyas and Tilak, Agarkar explained, It's, again, this is a clean slate almost. We played the World Cup in USA and Caribbean in 2024 June, and this was sort of February, March, which is not even two years really. But the next one, we've got a bit more time. Like I said, I think Shreyas absolutely deserves it with his performances, one, particularly with the bat. I think first, he should be good enough to be a player in the team. Then his performances as captain, and obviously, having won it once with, GG was with him at KKR, and then a couple of really good seasons with Punjab. So, no, it's perhaps a little bit unusual that he wasn't, but he was very close to always being in the team over the last couple of years. It's just that Surya and Tilak, the spots that he bats, were there, and he couldn't find a spot. So, now that he's found a spot, I think he's, like I said, he's earned it. On the conversation he had with Surya, Agarkar explained, You look at, obviously, the form in the last couple of years. But he was the captain, we were doing really well as him winning so many games, and eventually ending up winning the World Cup. Obviously, we deliberated a lot, especially when someone's led you to a World Cup win. So, no, it's perhaps a little bit unusual that he wasn't, but he was very close to always being in the team over the last couple of years. It's just that Surya and Tilak, the spots that he bats, were there, and he couldn't find a spot. So, now that he's found a spot, I think he's, like I said, he's earned it. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With regards to Sky, I don't think I don't want to give an insight. I mean, it's like a conversation between Surya and me. Look, we know he's been captain that's just won a World Cup. So it's not the easiest conversation when you want to tell the player that. But you're doing everything in the interest of what the team needs going forward, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
T20 Mumbai Women's League: Sanikas Stunning Fifty Powers Aakash Tigers MWS To First Win
Aakash Tigers Mumbai Western Suburbs: Aakash Tigers Mumbai Western Suburbs rode a rollicking half-century from Sanika Chalke to register their first win in the inaugural T20 Mumbai Womens League with a comfortable seven-wicket victory over Thane Sky Risers at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Saturday. Chasing 157, the Tigers produced a composed batting performance to reach the target with four balls to spare. Sanika led the charge with a brilliant 68 off 36 deliveries, setting the tone for the chase from the outset. She shared a crucial 69-run opening partnership with Humairaa Kaazi (18) in just 7.2 overs. While Kaazi played the supporting role, Sanika took the attack to the bowlers, striking 10 fours and two sixes to put the Tigers firmly in control. Later, Fatima Jaffar and Manali Dakshini remained unbeaten on 28 and 29 respectively, guiding their side home with ease. Earlier, Thane Sky Risers posted a competitive 156/6 after being asked to bat. Openers Mansi Patil and Vruushali Bhagat gave their side a solid start with a 73-run partnership. Patil top-scored with 40 while Bhagat contributed 29 before retiring out in the 10th over. However, the Risers were unable to capitalise on the strong foundation as the middle-order struggled to maintain the momentum. Captain Saima Thakor chipped in with a useful 23 lower down the order to help her side post a fighting total. For the Tigers, Siddhi Kamthe starred with the ball, returning with impressive figures of 3/29. Earlier on Friday night, the Ajinkya Rahane-led North Mumbai Panthers registered a 22-run win over Aakash Tigers Mumbai Western Suburbs in the mens tournament. Ayush Vartak starred with an unbeaten 83 to power the Panthers to 194/6. Captain Saima Thakor chipped in with a useful 23 lower down the order to help her side post a fighting total. For the Tigers, Siddhi Kamthe starred with the ball, returning with impressive figures of 3/29. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: Thane Sky Risers 156/6 (Mansi Patil 40, Vruushali Bhagat 29; Siddhi Kamthe 3/29) lost to Aakash Tigers MWS 157/3 in 19.2 overs (Sanika Chalke 68, Manali Dakshini 29 not out; Soumya Singh 2/34) by 7 wickets. Article Source: IANS
Agarkar: Shreyas replacing Suryakumar 'best way forward'
Ajit Agarkar said it was a ough call to drop a captain who had just led India to a T20 World Cup title
Agarkar: Sooryavanshi 'picked himself' in T20I squad, we've got 'high hopes of him'
The manner in which he attacked some of the best bowlers convinced selectors he was ready for the next stage
Indian Premier League: Indias newest red-ball debutant, Manav Suthar, expressed that words cannot fully capture how he felt on receiving his first Test cap. He described the moment as the best feeling he has experienced so far while also stating that he was motivated while getting the cap from a legend like Kuldeep Yadav. India added Suthar to the XI for the one-off Test against Afghanistan in Mullanpur. Before the game began on Saturday, all eyes were on India's playing XI, with fans curious as to who among Suthar and Harsh Dubey would be selected. Suthar, who played for the Gujarat Titans in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 under Indias red-ball skipper Shubman Gills leadership, earned his first cap from senior spinner Kuldeep. I can't even express these emotions in words. To be honest, it's the best feeling of my life so far. A Test cap is a dream for every cricketer. So it gave me a lot of motivation, and receiving this cap from a legend like Kuldeep (Yadav) bhai, who has served Team India for so long, makes me so grateful that I received this cap, Suthar said in a video shared by BCCI. India added Suthar to the XI for the one-off Test against Afghanistan in Mullanpur. Before the game began on Saturday, all eyes were on India's playing XI, with fans curious as to who among Suthar and Harsh Dubey would be selected. Suthar, who played for the Gujarat Titans in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 under Indias red-ball skipper Shubman Gills leadership, earned his first cap from senior spinner Kuldeep. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India won the toss and elected to bat, with the top order showing brilliant resilience throughout the first two sessions of the game. India crossed the 200-run mark riding on KL Rahul and Sai Sudharsans half-centuries, and the former went on to convert his score into a ton in the last session of Day 1. Article Source: IANS
Vaibhav Suryavanshi at 15 is giving a new generation its own Sachin Tendulkar moment
Vaibhav Suryavanshi's early career numbers and fan energy are akin to a young Sachin Tendulkar's, and now cricket needs its own Vaibhav not another Sachin.
PM Modi Congratulates Praggnanandhaa After Historic Norway Chess Triumph
Prime Minister Narendra Modi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Indian Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa after the 20-year-old became the first Indian to win the prestigious Norway Chess title, hailing the achievement as a reflection of his continued excellence on the global stage. Taking to X after Praggnanandhaa's historic triumph in Oslo, Modi wrote: Congratulations to Praggnanandhaa for this remarkable feat! This is indeed an incredible milestone that highlights his continued excellence. My best wishes to him for his future endeavours. The Prime Minister's words came as Praggnanandhaa recorded one of the most remarkable comebacks in the history of elite tournament, defeating Germany's Vincent Keymer in round 10, and thus winning the event outright. The Chennai-based Grandmaster entered the 10th and last round half a point behind overnight leader Wesley So. As soon as So drew against Alireza Firouzja, the young Indian took the chance and converted a better middlegame position into a deserved win over Keymer in the 45 th move. He took 18 points, and he became one point ahead of the American, and his prize-money was $100,000. The accomplishment seemed much more spectacular given the scenario at the end of round six: Praggnanandhaa was at the bottom of the table with no other player ranked beneath him and his performance in Norway's most prestigious chess tournament seemed destined to disappoint. Then, the Indian pulled a phenomenal sprint finishing, winning the last four classical games, to make a comeback. The Chennai-based Grandmaster entered the 10th and last round half a point behind overnight leader Wesley So. As soon as So drew against Alireza Firouzja, the young Indian took the chance and converted a better middlegame position into a deserved win over Keymer in the 45 th move. He took 18 points, and he became one point ahead of the American, and his prize-money was $100,000. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Praggnanandhaa, who played with the white pieces against Keymer, had benefited from a few mistakes on the German's side in the middlegame and converted his advantage into a clear win. That win was an amazing comeback for a player whose world ranking had dropped to 16 on June 1. Carlsen ended fourth on 13 points (winning his last game against Gukesh), Firouzja was third on 15.5 points, Keymer placed fifth, and Gukesh, current world Champion, concluded last on six points. Article Source: IANS
One-off Test: KL Rahul Stands Tall As India Reach 209/2 At Tea
Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket: KL Rahul and Sai Sudharsan struck composed half-centuries and shared a commanding 139-run partnership as India tightened their grip on the one-off Test against Afghanistan, reaching 209/2 in 50 overs at Tea on Day 1 at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium here in Mullanpur on Saturday. Resuming the afternoon session at 96/1, India added 113 runs for the loss of just one wicket, with Rahul unbeaten on 81 and captain Shubman Gill on 20 not out at the break. Afghanistan's lone success in the session came through Mohammad Saleem Safi again, who ended Sai's impressive run at 81. Having survived a testing opening session, Rahul looked far more fluent after lunch. The right-hander quickly shifted gears, collecting boundaries against both pace and spin before bringing up his 21st Test fifty. At the other end, Sai continued the encouraging start to his Test career, displaying patience and strokeplay in equal measure as he reached his third Test half-century. The pair steadily wore down the Afghanistan attack, rotating strike effectively while capitalising on loose deliveries. Afghanistan created a few opportunities but were unable to make them count. Sai enjoyed a significant reprieve on 59 when an outside edge off Ziaur Rahman Sharifi flew past wicketkeeper Afsar Zazai, while Rahul survived an lbw review after an inside edge saved him against Saleem Safi's reverse swing. As the session progressed, Sai grew increasingly confident against spin. The left-hander swept Afghanistan skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi regularly and drove fluently through the off side, helping India move past 150 and then 175 with relative ease. Afghanistan's bowlers continued to search for a breakthrough, with Sharifi producing probing spells and Saleem Safi generating reverse swing. The persistence finally paid off in the 43rd over when Saleem Safi induced an edge from Sai with a full delivery outside off. Wicketkeeper Zazai completed a sharp low catch to end the partnership and dismiss the debutant for a well-crafted 81 off 104 balls, studded with 13 boundaries. The dismissal ended a 139-run stand that had rescued India from 41/1 and placed the hosts firmly in control. Gill, arriving at No. 4, settled quickly despite an early lbw scare against Shahidi that Afghanistan unsuccessfully reviewed. The Indian captain responded positively, driving and pulling with authority to collect four boundaries in a brisk unbeaten 20 off 28 deliveries. Rahul, meanwhile, continued to anchor the innings, moving into the eighties and keeping Afghanistan at bay as India crossed the 200-run mark shortly before Tea. The dismissal ended a 139-run stand that had rescued India from 41/1 and placed the hosts firmly in control. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: India 209/2 in 50 overs (KL Rahul 81 not out, Shubman Gill 20 not out, Sai Sudharsan 81; Mohammad Saleem Safi 2-50) against Afghanistan. Article Source: IANS
Yashasvi Jaiswal Replaces Injured Virat Kohli for Indias ODI Series Against Afghanistan
Yashasvi Jaiswal has been drafted in to replace an injured Virat Kohli for Indias threematch ODI series against Afghanistan beginning June 13 in Dharamsala, while Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya are set to feature subject to them getting fitness clearance. Kohli, who now plays for India in ODIs, was visibly struggling while anchoring Royal Challengers Bengalurus chase in the IPL 2026 final against Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad, where he hit a match-winning 75 not out. The injury to his right hamstring has since aggravated, thus ruling him out of the series against Afghanistan. Chief Selector Ajit Agarkar said Kohli is expected to be fit for ODIs against England, to be played in July. It's just less than a week since he injured himself in the IPL final. Don't know the timelines yet, looks like he might be fit for England ODIs. Not a definitive squad, don't have a timeline from the physio yet, he said in the press conference at the BCCI headquarters on Saturday. Jaiswal's last ODI appearance was on December 6, 2025, against South Africa in Visakhapatnam, where he hit an unbeaten 116 runs off 121 balls, his maiden century in the 50-over format internationally. Meanwhile, seam-bowling all-rounder Pandya is undergoing rehab at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru since June 2 after back injury kept him out of a few games in IPL 2026 Jaiswal's last ODI appearance was on December 6, 2025, against South Africa in Visakhapatnam, where he hit an unbeaten 116 runs off 121 balls, his maiden century in the 50-over format internationally. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Following the opening ODI in Dharamshala, India and Afghanistan will play two more ODIs in Lucknow and Chennai on June 17 and 20 respectively. After this, the selectors are slated to announce Indias squad for ODIs against England at a later date. Article Source: IANS
Yashasvi Jaiswal replaces injured Virat Kohli for Afghanistan ODIs
The India batter injured his hamstring during RCB's run to the IPL 2026 title
Dhruv Jurel To Lead India A In Multiday Games In Sri Lanka; Auqib Nabi Earns Callup
The Ajit Agarkar: Wicketkeeperbatter Dhruv Jurel has been named captain of the India A squad for the upcoming two multiday matches in Sri Lanka, while Jammu & Kashmir fast bowling allrounder Auqib Nabi has earned a maiden callup to the set-up. The Ajit Agarkarled selection committee announced the squad on Saturday, with Devdutt Padikkal appointed as the vicecaptain. India A will play two fourday fixtures against Sri Lanka A from June 25 to July 5 in Galle, ahead of the Test team visiting the country for a two-game World Test Championship series in August. The priority will be to acclimatise to spin-friendly conditions and getting used to the red Kookaburra ball. Alongside Jurel and Padikkal, the batting unit includes Sai Sudharsan, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and N Jagadeesan. Vidarbha batter Aman Mokhade and Andhra batter Shaik Rasheed have also earned maiden call-ups to the India A squad. The bowling attack comprises of Nabi, Yash Thakur, Anshul Kamboj, and Gurnoor Brar, who recently got a call-up to the Test team for the ongoing one-off game against Afghanistan. Auqibs call-up is significant, considering he got 60 wickets to become the highest wicket-taker while guiding Jammu and Kashmir to their maiden Ranji Trophy triumph earlier this year. The priority will be to acclimatise to spin-friendly conditions and getting used to the red Kookaburra ball. Alongside Jurel and Padikkal, the batting unit includes Sai Sudharsan, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and N Jagadeesan. Vidarbha batter Aman Mokhade and Andhra batter Shaik Rasheed have also earned maiden call-ups to the India A squad. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India A squad for multi-day games in Sri Lanka: Dhruv Jurel (captain), Sai Sudharsan, Ayush Badoni, Devdutt Padikkal (vice-captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Saransh Jain, Gurnoor Brar, Auqib Nabi, Yash Thakur, Anshul Kamboj, N Jagadeesan, Aman Mokhade, Shaik Rasheed, and Zeeshan Ansari Article Source: IANS
Shreyas confirmed as India's T20I captain; Suryakumar dropped
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has been picked in an India squad for the first time
Sooryavanshi Earns Maiden Callup For T20I Tours Of Ireland, England And Asian Games
Indian T20I: Teenaged batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has earned a maiden call-up to the Indian T20I team for the tours of Ireland, England and the Asian Games. With Shreyas Iyer appointed as Indias new T20I captain, he replaces Suryakumar Yadav, who has been left out of all three squads. Shreyas was quite close to getting into that T20 World Cup squad. It was a tough call on Suryakumar Yadav, but you need to reassess your plan moving forward. Shreyas is a well-deserving captain. He is a standout candidate with enough experience. I talked to most people, particularly when it comes to a captain who has won the World Cup. We had that chat. We debated it a lot, not the easiest discussion especially if you've won the WC. At some stage, we would've discussed. Shreyas playing as well as he has made the decision easier, said chief selector Ajit Agarkar in the press conference. India will play two T20Is in Belfast on June 26 and 28, followed by five matches in England from July 1 to 11. They will also play in the Mens T20 event at the Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan, in September. Suryakumar, 35, had captained India to a successful defence of the T20 World Cup title in March, but his prolonged lean patch was always a concern. He managed only 270 runs in 13 innings for Mumbai Indians in IPL 2026 at an average of 20.76, while his World Cup returns 242 runs at a strike rate of 136.72 were modest. With the next T20 World Cup scheduled for 2028, the selectors felt the time was right to move on and make Shreyas the sides captain, while Tilak Varma is appointed as the vice-captain. Shubman Gill was vice-captain leading into World Cup. But when we decided to have two keepers he missed out. Axar Patel was vice-captain, but we're looking at what's best for the next two-year cycle. Tilak is a terrific player, and it gives him an opportunity to learn on the job, added Agarkar. Shreyas, 31, returns to the T20I fold after making his last appearance coming in December 2023. Though he was part of the squad against New Zealand earlier this year, he did not feature in the playing eleven. With him coming in, hes now expected to bat at number four, a position held previously by Suryakumar. Sooryavanshis inclusion is equally eyecatching, after being Player of the Final and Player of the Tournament in the 2026 U19 Mens Cricket World Cup triumph. The Rajasthan Royals batter smashed 776 runs at a strike rate of 237.30 in IPL 2026, and has now become the youngest player picked in an India mens squad since Sachin Tendulkar in 1989. Before the senior T20I tours, he will feature for India A in the triseries in Sri Lanka from June 9 to 21. Vaibhav's performances - he almost forced us to pick him. I know he's young, but two IPLs in a row, and we also know what he did at the Under-19 level. We can all see the kind of talent he has. We're hopeful if and when he gets an opportunity, he shows the same ability. There will be tougher challenges but he has shown great promise and temperament. We're all as hopeful as everyone is. He has picked himself through his own performances, added Agarkar. Seam-bowling all-rounder Harshit Rana, undergoing rehab for a meniscus tear surgery done in March, is back again, so as leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi. Fast bowler Prince Yadav, who had an impactful time in IPL 2026, is included on tours of Ireland and England, while Jasprit Bumrah will come in for him in the Asian Games squad. There will be tougher challenges but he has shown great promise and temperament. We're all as hopeful as everyone is. He has picked himself through his own performances, added Agarkar. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India's squad for 2026 Asian Games in Japan:- Shreyas Iyer (captain), Tilak Varma (vice-captain), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan, Shivam Dube, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Varun Chakaravarthy, Ravi Bishnoi, Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Article Source: IANS
Bumrah named in full-strength India T20I squad for Asian Games
The fast bowler was rested for the T20Is in Ireland and England
Praggnanandhaa calls Norway Chess win biggest achievement after historic triumph
He credited improved time management and consistency for his four consecutive wins that sealed the title.
World Cup workers threaten strike before $2,000-a-ticket game
The union represents roughly 2,000 food service workers, including bartenders, dishwashers, cooks and concession workers at the venue; legends didnt immediately respond to a request for comment
Women's T20 World Cup 2026: All You Need To Know
T20 World Cup Global Qualifier: The stage is set for the 10th edition of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup, with the world's best teams gearing up for a month-long battle for the biggest prize in women's T20 cricket. Hosted by England and Wales, the tournament begins on June 12 and promises to be the largest edition in the competition's history, featuring 12 teams for the first time. The tournament returns to England for the first time since the inaugural edition in 2009. On that occasion, England lifted the trophy under the leadership of Charlotte Edwards, who now serves as head coach of the national women's team. The hosts will also draw inspiration from their memorable ICC Women's Cricket World Cup triumph on home soil in 2017. New Zealand enter the tournament as defending champions after securing their maiden Women's T20 World Cup title in the UAE in 2024. The White Ferns became only the fourth team to lift the trophy since the competition's inception in 2009. England won the inaugural edition in 2009, while West Indies claimed their only title in 2016. Australia remain the most successful side in tournament history, having won the title six times. Hosts England qualified automatically, while Australia, India, New Zealand, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Pakistan and West Indies secured direct qualification through their ICC rankings. Bangladesh, Ireland, Scotland and the Netherlands booked their spots through the ICC Women's T20 World Cup Global Qualifier earlier this year. Netherlands will make their Women's T20 World Cup debut after finishing among the qualifying teams at the Global Qualifier. Their qualification marks another significant step in the growth of women's cricket across Europe and adds a fresh dimension to this year's competition. A record 12 teams have been split into two groups of six. While Group A consists of Australia, Bangladesh, India, the Netherlands, Pakistan and South Africa, hosts England, Ireland, New Zealand, Scotland, Sri Lanka, and the West Indies form Group B. Each team will play the other sides in their group once during the round-robin stage. The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals, with the winners progressing to the final. The tournament's 33 matches will be played across seven venues in England. They are Old Trafford (Manchester), Headingley (Leeds), Edgbaston (Birmingham), Bristol County Ground (Bristol), Hampshire Bowl (Southampton), The Oval (London), and Lord's (London). All participating teams will play two warm-up matches before the tournament begins. The warm-up fixtures start on June 6 and will be staged across Derby, Loughborough and Cardiff, providing teams with an opportunity to fine-tune preparations ahead of the main event. The semi-finals will be held at The Oval on June 30 and July 2, while the final will take place at Lord's on July 5. The ICC has announced a record prize pool of USD 8,764,615 for the tournament, representing a 10 per cent increase from the previous edition. The winners will receive USD 2,340,000, while the runners-up will earn USD 1,170,000. Losing semi-finalists will take home USD 675,000 each, while every group-stage victory will be worth USD 31,154. All 12 participating teams are guaranteed a minimum payout of USD 247,500. The increase in prize money reflects the ICC's continued commitment to expanding and strengthening the women's game globally. With established powers such as Australia, England and reigning ODI world champions India, joined by emerging sides including Scotland and debutants Netherlands, the 2026 Women's T20 World Cup promises to be one of the most competitive and significant editions in the tournament's history. Where to watch the Womens T20 World Cup: Fans worldwide can watch the ICC Womens T20 World Cup 2026 through various TV and digital broadcasters. In India and nearby regions such as Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives, the tournament will be aired on Star Sports and streamed live on JioHotstar. Hosts England will have coverage on Sky Sports, while Australian viewers can tune in via Prime Video. In New Zealand, matches will be shown on Sky Sport. Pakistani viewers can follow the action on PTV Sports, Geo Super, and Myco. Coverage in South Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa will come from SuperSport, and Willow TV will broadcast the games in the United States and Canada. For those in areas without a dedicated broadcaster, live streaming will be available on ICC.tv, ensuring worldwide access. All 12 squads for the Womens T20 World Cup: Group 1: Australia: Sophie Molineux (c), Nicola Carey, Ashleigh Gardner, Kim Garth, Lucy Hamilton, Grace Harris, Alana King, Phoebe Litchfield, Tahlia McGrath, Beth Mooney, Ellyse Perry, Megan Schutt, Annabel Sutherland, Georgia Voll, Georgia Wareham Bangladesh: Nigar Sultana Joty (c), Nahida Akter (vc), Sharmin Akter Supta, Sobhana Mostary, Shorna Akter, Ritu Moni, Rabeya Khan, Fahima Khatun, Fariha Islam Trisna, Marufa Akter, Shanjida Akther Maghla, Sultana Khatun, Dilara Akter, Juairiya Ferdous, Taj Nehar India: Harmanpreet Kaur (c), Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma, Jemimah Rodrigues, Bharti Fulmali, Deepti Sharma, Richa Ghosh, Shree Charani, Yastika Bhatia, Nandani Sharma, Arundhati Reddy, Renuka Singh, Kranti Gaud, Shreyanka Patil, Radha Yadav Netherlands: Babette de Leede (c), Caroline de Lange, Frdrique Overdijk, Hannah Landheer, Heather Siegers, Iris Zwilling, Isabel van der Woning, Lara Leemhuis, Myrthe van den Raad, Phebe Molkenboer, Robine Rijke, Rosalie Lawrence, Sanya Khurana, Silver Siegers, Sterre Kalis Pakistan: Fatima Sana (c), Gull Feroza, Ayesha Zafar, Iram Javed, Eyman Fatima, Aliya Riaz, Natalia Parvaiz, Saira Jabeen, Muneeba Ali, Tuba Hassan, Rameen Shamim, Sadia Iqbal, Nashra Sandhu, Diana Baig, Tasmia Rubab South Africa: Laura Wolvaardt (c), Tazmin Brits, Nadine de Klerk, Annerie Dercksen, Shabnim Ismail, Sinalo Jafta, Marizanne Kapp, Ayabonga Khaka, Sune Luus, Karabo Meso, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Kayla Reyneke, Tumi Sekhukhune, Chloe Tryon, Dane van Nierkerk Group 2: England: Nat Sciver-Brunt (c), Lauren Bell, Alice Capsey, Tilly Corteen-Coleman, Charlie Dean, Sophia Dunkley, Sophie Ecclestone, Lauren Filer, Dani Gibson, Amy Jones, Freya Kemp, Heather Knight, Linsey Smith, Issy Wong, Danni Wyatt-Hodge Ireland: Gaby Lewis (c), Ava Canning, Christina Coulter Reilly, Alana Dalzell, Georgina Dempsey, Amy Hunter, Arlene Kelly, Louise Little, Aimee Maguire, Lara McBride, Cara Murray, Leah Paul, Orla Prendergast, Rebecca Stokell, Alice Tector New Zealand: Melie Kerr (c), Suzie Bates, Sophie Devine, Flora Devonshire, Izzy Gaze, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Bree Illing, Polly Inglis, Jess Kerr, Rosemary Mair, Nensi Patel, Georgia Plimmer, Izzy Sharp, Lea Tahuhu Scotland: Kathryn Bryce (c), Chloe Abel, Olivia Bell, Sarah Bryce, Darcey Carter, Priyanaz Chatterji, Gabriella Fontenla, Katherine Fraser, Kirstie Gordon, Ailsa Lister, Maisie Maceira, Abtaha Maqsood, Megan McColl, Rachel Slater, Pippa Sproul New Zealand: Melie Kerr (c), Suzie Bates, Sophie Devine, Flora Devonshire, Izzy Gaze, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Bree Illing, Polly Inglis, Jess Kerr, Rosemary Mair, Nensi Patel, Georgia Plimmer, Izzy Sharp, Lea Tahuhu Also Read: Live Cricket Score West Indies: Hayley Matthews (c), Chinelle Henry, Deandra Dottin, Stafanie Taylor, Afy Fletcher, Aaliyah Alleyne, Shemaine Campbelle, Ashmini Munisar, Karishma Ramharack, Jannillea Glasgow, Jahzara Claxton, Qiana Joseph, Zaida James, Mandy Mangru, Shawnisha Hector Article Source: IANS
One-off Test: Rahul, Sudharsan Frustrate Afghanistan As India Reach 96/1 At Lunch
Ziaur Rahman Sharifi: India overcame a testing opening session to reach 96/1 in 25 overs at Lunch on Day 1 of the one-off four-day Test against Afghanistan, with KL Rahul and Sai Sudharsan guiding the hosts through a disciplined spell from the visitors' bowlers. After electing to bat, India lost Yashasvi Jaiswal for 24 but were steadied by an unbeaten 55-run stand between Rahul (37 not out) and Sai (32 not out), who survived a dropped catch to take the hosts to a position of relative comfort by the interval. Afghanistan's seamers made the Indian batters work hard on a surface offering occasional movement and variable bounce. Ziaur Rahman Sharifi and Azmatullah Omarzai maintained probing lines in the opening hour, preventing India from scoring freely despite Jaiswal finding a few boundaries early on. Jaiswal, playing positively whenever the bowlers erred in length, struck five fours in his 32-ball 24-run knock. However, he enjoyed a slice of luck on 11 when a thick outside edge flew through the cordon before eventually falling to Mohammad Saleem Safi. Attempting to glance a delivery down the leg side, Jaiswal got a faint edge through to wicketkeeper Afsar Zazai, handing Afghanistan their first breakthrough with India on 41. Rahul, meanwhile, endured a scratchy start and was fortunate to survive on 16 when Afghanistan opted against reviewing a caught-behind appeal off Sharifi. Replays later suggested there had been an edge, leaving the visitors ruing a missed opportunity. The experienced right-hander gradually settled in, finding boundaries off Sharifi, Saleem Safi and later spinner Nangeyalia Kharote, though he never looked entirely fluent during the morning session. Sudharsan, meanwhile, began cautiously before growing in confidence. The left-hander collected boundaries through well-timed flicks and drives, showing composure against both pace and spin. Afghanistan had another opportunity to strike when Sai edged Kharote towards first slip, but wicketkeeper Rahmanullah Gurbaz reacted late and could only get his fingertips to the chance. Afghanistan introduced spin before lunch through debutant Kharote and Abdul Malik, with the former extracting some turn and bounce to challenge the Indian batters. However, Rahul and Sai negotiated the threat effectively and ensured there were no further setbacks. Sudharsan, meanwhile, began cautiously before growing in confidence. The left-hander collected boundaries through well-timed flicks and drives, showing composure against both pace and spin. Afghanistan had another opportunity to strike when Sai edged Kharote towards first slip, but wicketkeeper Rahmanullah Gurbaz reacted late and could only get his fingertips to the chance. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: India 96/1 in 25 overs (KL Rahul 37 not out, Sai Sudharsan 32 not out; Mohammad Saleem Safi 1-27) against Afghanistan. Article Source: IANS
Sunrisers Eastern Cape: South African great Jacques Kallis threw his support behind fellow Proteas all-rounder Marco Jansen, insisting the 26-year-olds best years are still ahead of him despite a relatively quiet IPL 2026 campaign. Jansen, who played for Punjab Kings in the recent season, took nine wickets in 13 matches and had an economy rate of 10.20. Though those numbers did not meet expectations, Kallis believes competing in different leagues and conditions is shaping the left-arm pace-bowling all-rounder into a more complete cricketer. In an interview with SA20, Kallis remarked, I think he still has a lot ahead of him that he can achieve if he really puts his mind to it. He is learning his game. It takes time to understand your style while playing in various leagues, in diverse conditions, in front of large crowds, and under pressure. You learn from every experience, and I think hes just getting better and better and learning from those experiences. I think he still has a lot ahead of him that he can achieve if he really puts his mind to it. Kallis confidence in Jansen comes from the all-rounders ongoing success in the SA20. He has become a key player for the Sunrisers Eastern Cape. Regarded as one of the greatest all-rounders in cricket history, Kallis scored over 25,000 international runs and took nearly 600 wickets during his remarkable career. Jansen again played an important role in helping the Men in Orange secure their third title in four seasons. He ended the tournament with 13 wickets and delivered a crucial spell of 3 for 10 in the final. This performance helped contain the Pretoria Capitals, despite a stunning century from Dewald Brevis. Kallis also noted the positive impact of the SA20 on South African cricket. He pointed out the rise of several young talents who have used the tournament as a stepping stone to opportunities worldwide. Among those benefiting are Connor Esterhuizen, Dian Forrester, and the Hermann brothers. Forrester made an impression with the Joburg Super Kings, leading to a spot with Rawalpindi in the Pakistan Super League, where he struck at 171.42 and averaged 44. His performance earned him a replacement contract with Chennai Super Kings. Esterhuizen, meanwhile, followed up a half-century in his debut international series for South Africa by securing a replacement player deal with IPL 2026 runners-up Gujarat Titans. Kallis believes these success stories highlight the growing impact of the SA20 in developing the next generation of South African cricketers. Esterhuizen, meanwhile, followed up a half-century in his debut international series for South Africa by securing a replacement player deal with IPL 2026 runners-up Gujarat Titans. Also Read: Live Cricket Score A lot of the youngsters are pushing now - not only for the national side but in all the leagues around the world. So, its been a huge catalyst for those young guys, and they must just keep pushing because theyll definitely get opportunities. Article Source: IANS
New Chandigarh: Afghanistan wicketkeeper-batter Rahmanullah Gurbaz expressed that playing against India in the upcoming one-off Test is a long-held dream coming true as he described the chance to participate in red-ball cricket in India as a special milestone in his career. Watching Afghanistan's early steps in Test cricket from a distance, Gurbaz acknowledged that this moment has deep personal importance as his team strives to make its mark in the longest format. I feel amazing. I remember the first Test which I was not part of the test match and I was watching on the TV. Yeah, it just was a dream to play against India in India in Test cricket. Finally, I'm here. Very excited for this game, yeah, Gurbaz said. Afghanistan arrive for the fixture after an extended period of preparation, having spent more than a month working on their red-ball game before travelling to India. Gurbaz believes the groundwork has left the squad well placed heading into the contest. Been very nice. From the last one and a half months, we were practicing in Afghanistan and then we came here early a little bit and then we had a good practice session here in Chandigarh as well that I think we are very well prepared and looking for a good game, the keeper-batter said. While Afghanistan have made significant strides in white-ball cricket, Gurbaz acknowledged that Test cricket remains a learning process for a side still building experience in the format. He stressed that the team has embraced the challenge and is determined to compete despite its relative inexperience. It's a learning for us. We are not that well experienced in Test cricket, which I think in Test cricket, you really need experience and test experience, actually. I think it's a good learning for us and also we had a very good camp and we had a very good red ball practice. I think mentally, physically, we are well prepared and the way we practiced and the way the boys are ready, I think we are very ready to fight and at the same time, we just need to be looking for a good game to play a good cricket game. And yeah, it's a new challenge for me, but as a cricketer, I don't need to make excuses and I'm well prepared to play a good cricket, Gurbaz noted. It's a learning for us. We are not that well experienced in Test cricket, which I think in Test cricket, you really need experience and test experience, actually. I think it's a good learning for us and also we had a very good camp and we had a very good red ball practice. Also Read: Live Cricket Score He's such a nice man. He's an encouraged guy and I think he's a very well supporter for all of us. It's our first tour with him and hopefully we keep continuing the good memories which we had before. And yeah, his knowledge is more than our age. I think we are lucky to have a coach like him and hopefully we learn so much things from him, he said. Article Source: IANS
Nasser Hussain Labels Lords Pitch substandard After 33 Wickets Tumble In Two Days
Boxing Day Ashes Test: Former England captain Nasser Hussain has criticised the Lords pitch as substandard and not good enough for Test cricket after 33 wickets fell in the opening two days of Englands first Test against New Zealand, reigniting debate over the quality of surfaces at the iconic venue. The contest at Lords has been mostly about the bowlers. England set New Zealand a target of 218 after being bowled out for a low score in their second innings. New Zealand bowler Nathan Smith took advantage of the uneven bounce and seam movement, claiming six wickets for 70 runs. England's batting fell apart at one point, losing four wickets in just 11 balls. The pitch has faced criticism despite considerable work done in the off-season. The ground staff relaid the outfield and used steam at 200 degrees Celsius to kill pathogens and revitalize the soil under the pitch. However, Hussain thinks these efforts have not solved ongoing problems. Both teams have shown high-quality bowling, but the pitch is below par, and it has been for quite a while, Hussain told Sky Sports. This historic ground is hosting its 150th Test match and will hold three Tests this year. Its a venue that mixes tradition with modernity, but ultimately, the 22 yards in the center are crucial. Everything has been attempted to improve it. The grounds staff know it lacks pace and offers inconsistent bounce and seam movement in cloudy conditions. They covered it with a dome and tried steaming, but nothing has changed. Throughout this Test match, it has lacked pace, and when it speeds up, it misbehaves. This criticism comes months after the pitch at the Melbourne Cricket Ground was rated unsatisfactory by the ICC after a Boxing Day Ashes Test that finished in two days. The ICC is expected to evaluate and give its opinion on the Lords pitch after this Test. Hussain pointed out that although fast bowlers from both teams have excelled, the conditions have made it hard for batters to succeed. There has been absolutely no chance for the batters, he said. Lords has many positive aspects. The attention to detail around the ground is excellent. But the most crucial part, the pitch, is not good enough. Former New Zealand bowler and Sky Sports analyst Simon Doull shared Hussains concerns. He suggested that the England and Wales Cricket Board should consider moving matches if the pitch does not improve. There comes a time when you have to ask: What will the ECB do about the Lords pitch? Doull said on Sky Sports Cricket. I think the ECB needs to work with the MCC and say: Were sorry, but we may have to take games away, as the pitch is not up to standard. Until the ECB decides to move games from Lords, it doesnt push the MCC to spend money and fix the pitch. Doull expressed sympathy for the ground staff, stating that the issue runs deeper than daily preparation. The outfield looks fantastic, and I feel for the staff. They are dealing with an old pitch block, which is not suitable for their needs. They know their job well and understand what needs to be done. But they are working with a poor surface that has seen better days. Its worn out, its aged, and it needs to be replaced. Former England fast bowler Stuart Broad recognized that modern Test pitches should give batters more chances, but he felt Lords had still facilitated engaging cricket. On Test match pitches and the quality of bowling in this format, you dont need as much sideways movement as this pitch has offered. Bowlers can create movement themselves, Broad told Sky Sports Cricket. Theres been a lot of discussion about the pitch. Last night, I was on the tube with people who had watched the cricket. Everyone was talking about how much they enjoyed the day. The excitement of the wickets, the crowds, and the unpredictability. Regardless of what is said about the surface, if the day is entertaining, thats a plus. Again today, its been a thrilling day! Broad, however, acknowledged that pitches should find a better balance between bat and ball. I'm not saying these pitches are excellent for Test cricket; they need to be better for batting. Broad, however, acknowledged that pitches should find a better balance between bat and ball. Also Read: Live Cricket Score But that hasnt taken away from the entertainment. Article Source: IANS
Website glitch gives fans 'free' WC tickets, FIFA cancels booking and demands full payment
Around 60 fans accidentally secured FIFA World Cup 2026 tickets at USD due to a website checkout glitch, only for FIFA to later cancel the bookings and ask them to pay the correct ticket price. FIFA acknowledged the error, apologised for the inconvenience, and said the affected tickets remain reserved for the buyers.
India bat first, Suthar gets maiden Test cap
Afghanistan have handed a Test debut to spin-bowling allrounder Nangeyalia Kharote
US grants visas to Iran World Cup team despite ongoing conflict
The team is scheduled to play its opening matches against New Zealand and Belgium in California before travelling to Seattle to face Egypt.
Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket: With India preparing to switch from the frenetic pace of the IPL to the patience and discipline of Test cricket, fast bowler Prasidh Krishna believes the transition is no longer an unfamiliar challenge for modern-day cricketers. Ahead of the one-off Test against Afghanistan at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur on Saturday, the pacer said players have become accustomed to moving between formats throughout the year, making the adjustment more mental than technical. Very refreshing, honestly, coming down to this beautiful ground. It's all bright and nice. I love the sunshine, so, yeah, it feels refreshing, he told the broadcasters on the sidelines before the toss. India's players have had little time between the conclusion of the IPL and the start of the Test assignment. While acknowledging the differing demands of red-ball cricket, Prasidh stressed that experience across formats has equipped India's players to adapt quickly as they begin an important phase of their Test calendar. It does change a little bit. I think we have played enough cricket now. We always end up playing multiple formats together, so I think we're used to it as well. So it's just about getting your eyes set in and then you think about the game a lot. So I think once it starts in your mind, it gets a lot more easier running that on the ground, he said. For the Karnataka pacer, the transition is largely a mental exercise. While the mechanics of bowling remain unchanged, the challenge in Test cricket is to maintain discipline over longer spells and resist the urge to force breakthroughs too early. It is mostly mental as well because bowling the ball in a particular area, you're always used to doing it. Once you tell your brain that you need to be doing this, you will be able to do it. So it's about being more patient, having that ability to be in a particular area for longer and not really trying too much too early is what the red-ball format needs and it's about adapting mentally, the pacer stated. For the Karnataka pacer, the transition is largely a mental exercise. While the mechanics of bowling remain unchanged, the challenge in Test cricket is to maintain discipline over longer spells and resist the urge to force breakthroughs too early. Also Read: Live Cricket Score It's about being very consistent. It's the standard that you set for yourself coming into Test matches having played a few in the last few Test matches that happened for India. It's just about carrying that momentum to the team and then now that we're coming off a different format, it's really important to start well, have your basics set right and then set the standard for yourself going forward, he noted. Article Source: IANS
Shubman Gill Wins Toss, India Opt to Bat Against Afghanistan as Manav Suthar Makes Test Debut
India skipper Shubman Gill won the toss and elected to bat first against Afghanistan in their one-off cricket Test in New Chandigarh on Saturday. Left-arm spinner Manav Suthar made his India debut on a hot and humid day, with the pitch expected to get slower and lower as the match progresses at India's newest Test venue. India, ranked third in world Test rankings, would be looking to bounce back after suffering a 2-0 defeat to South Africa at home in November in their most recent Test outing. The match is not part of the World Test Championship cycle, but a key game for Afghanistan who played their debut five-day game in India in 2018. Since then, Afghanistan, led by Hashmatullah Shahidi, have played 12 Tests and won four. The Afghans handed a Test debut to left-arm spinner Nangeyalia Kharote and went in with three seamers and two spinners. Teams India: KL Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sai Sudharsan, Shubman Gill (capt), Rishabh Pant (wk), Dhruv Jurel, Washington Sundar, Manav Suthar, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna. Afghanistan: Sediqullah Atal, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Abdul Malik, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi (capt), Afsar Zazai (wk), Azmatullah Omarzai, Sharafuddin Ashraf, Nangeyalia Kharote, Ziaur Rahman, Mohammad Saleem. Umpires: Richard Illingworth (ENG), Sharfuddoula (BAN) TV Umpire: Chris Gaffaney (NZL) Also Read: Live Cricket Score Match Referee: Ranjan Madugalle (SRI)
One-off Test: Manav Suthar Debuts As India Elect To Bat
Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket: India won the toss and elected to bat against Afghanistan in the one-off four-day Test here at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur on Saturday. While the game does not contribute World Test Championship (WTC) points, it is viewed as an important step in Indias preparation for a challenging Test season that includes series against Sri Lanka, New Zealand, and Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The match marks a transitional phase for Indian cricket, with key senior players absent. Led by coach Gautam Gambhir, the team focuses on nurturing younger players and giving them extended chances. This approach influences selection choices, like favouring Sai Sudharsan at No. 3 over Devdutt Padikkal and handing Manav Suthar his maiden Test cap. Indias IPL success reflects the countrys white-ball talent, but the upcoming week will test players red-ball skills, patience, and endurance as they play a Test match after a six-month gap. The Afghanistan Test is a chance to reinforce standards and build momentum before tougher challenges. For Afghanistan, the match represents a significant milestone. Under new head coach Richard Pybus, the team will hope to continue their growth beyond white-ball cricket. Having played relatively few Tests since gaining Full Member status, Afghanistan sees the fixture as an important chance to strengthen its red-ball culture, gain experience, and showcase its progress on the international stage. Winning the toss, India skipper Shubman Gill said, We are gonna bat first. Very hot and humid. It's going to get slower and lower. Very special, I grew up playing here. It's a great privilege to captain here. The preparation has been good. Got a good couple of days of sleep. Nine Test matches after this, we've got quite a few home Test matches. It's about getting the combination right. We've got Manav Suthar making his debut. Meanwhile, Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi stated, We wanted to bat as well, as the wicket looks good. We need to play good cricket. We are ready for the challenge. We like challenges. We are well prepared for this game. We had a good preparation camp in Kabul. (On Richard Pybus) He's good, he's also a very positive person, his mindset is positive. We have three seamers and two spinning combinations.. We have one debutant - Nangeyalia Kharote. Playing XIs: Meanwhile, Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi stated, We wanted to bat as well, as the wicket looks good. We need to play good cricket. We are ready for the challenge. We like challenges. We are well prepared for this game. We had a good preparation camp in Kabul. (On Richard Pybus) He's good, he's also a very positive person, his mindset is positive. We have three seamers and two spinning combinations.. We have one debutant - Nangeyalia Kharote. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Afghanistan: Sediqullah Atal, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Abdul Malik, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Afsar Zazai (wk), Azmatullah Omarzai, Sharafuddin Ashraf, Nangeyalia Kharote, Ziaur Rahman, Mohammad Saleem Article Source: IANS
England Dominate New Zealand as Atkinson Strikes Late and Debutant Gay Shines at Lord's
Gus Atkinson struck twice late on the second day as England pressed for victory in the first Test against New Zealand at Lord's on Friday. England's strong position also owed much to debutant opener Emilio Gay's valuable fifty in a low-scoring game. New Zealand were 36-3 in their second innings at stumps. They need a further 218 runs to reach a victory target of 254 after collapsing to 113 all out first time around on a bowler-friendly pitch. They suffered a woeful start to their run-chase on Friday when captain Tom Latham fell for a third-ball duck, edging a loose drive off Atkinson to Harry Brook in the slips. Kane Williamson, in what could be the key batsman's final appearance at Lord's, battled hard for 18 before he was lbw to fast bowler Josh Tongue shortly before the close. New Zealand sent out a nightwatchman in Will O'Rourke but he was bowled for a duck by paceman Atkinson, who had close figures of 2-10 in 3.5 overs. Earlier, Jamie Smith helped England recover from a middle-order collapse before the hosts were dismissed for 226 in their second innings of a frenetic clash in north London. Gay was England's top scorer in their second innings with 57 and wicket-keeper Smith made 39 in the 150th Test staged at Lord's -- the most of any ground. New Zealand quick Nathan Smith took 6-70. But given New Zealand were dismissed for just 113 in the first innings, they need a vastly-improved batting effort to prevent England going 1-0 up in the three-match series. - 'Tough day' - A tough day, the pitch had its demands, Gay told the BBC. That's the beauty of Test cricket, the challenges it brings. The most important thing was trying to embrace it and see it as an opportunity. When it's a low-scoring game, partnerships of 20 and little bits of momentum there are massive. Nathan Smith, meanwhile, said: The game has moved pretty quickly in the first couple of days. We lost one too many wickets tonight but the wicket (pitch) is offering a lot for the seamers. England lost four wickets for just one run as 126-2 became 127-6 before Jamie Smith steadied the ship during a seventh-wicket partnership of 57 with Atkinson. Atkinson, however, gave his innings away on 14 when a miscued pull off Kyle Jamieson was caught by the towering fast bowler. This is England's first Test since a 4-1 series loss in Australia where they squandered several promising positions. It appeared that they might be suffering a repeat of their Ashes debacle when Brook, fresh from a first-innings fifty, and England captain Ben Stokes were both dismissed without scoring on Friday. There was little Jamie Smith could do when Nathan Smith bowled him with a delivery that kept low. Gay, who survived a Henry lbw appeal when the Durham batsman would have been out for 24, pressed on to an 84-ball fifty, including seven fours, before he was caught behind off Smith to leave England 126-3. Brook was trapped in front by O'Rourke for a duck and Joe Root fell in similar fashion to Smith for eight. Stokes was bowled by an excellent Smith delivery that clipped the top of the left-hander's off stump. Ollie Robinson made a useful 29 before he was last man out. The Sussex pace bowler had previously marked his return to England duty with a five-wicket haul. Robinson, in his first Test in over two years, produced a triple-wicket maiden on Thursday during a sensational 4-10 in six overs as New Zealand slumped to 61-6 at stumps. Also Read: Live Cricket Score And on Friday, he bowled last man Matt Henry for a duck to finish with his Test-best figures of 5-39 in 10.1 overs.
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Dan Lawrence 94* in vain as Hampshire hold of Surrey charge
Hawks manage to defend 215 for 4 on high-scoring night at The Oval for fifth win in a row
George Linde the hero as Notts hold off Bears in low-scorer
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Hose fifty, Raza four-for light path for Worcestershire
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Pitch imperfect: Nasser Hussain, Michael Vaughan lead criticism of Lord's surface
A wicket has fallen every 25 balls across the first two days of a Test dominated by fast bowlers
Suryakumar Yadav Meets Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis Amid Questions Over Captaincy Stint
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis: India's T20 World Cup-winning captain Suryakumar Yadav paid a courtesy visit to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis at his official residence, Varsha, in Mumbai on Friday. This visit came amidst a lot of speculations about Suryakumar's continuation as the skipper of India in the T20I format. This meeting, which was tweeted by the Chief Minister's Office, was followed closely as discussions about the leadership of India in T20 format began in earnest as India's next assignment in T20I format is expected in the latter part of this month. Today, Indian cricketer Suryakumar Yadav paid a courtesy visit to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis at his official residence Varsha in Mumbai, CMO Maharashtra posted on X. As far as Suryakumar Yadav is concerned, he is still the captain of India's T20I side. The question whether he will be the captain for the next cycle or not is still unanswered and is expected to be discussed in an Apex Council meeting to be held by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in online mode on Saturday. As per sources close to the matter, it is not certain whether the discussion regarding the next T20I captain will be on the formal agenda. However, since India is preparing for the 2028 T20 World Cup and T20 cricket is making a comeback at the Los Angeles Olympics, the leadership plan would be expected to be high on the agenda in the coming months. Earlier in March, Suryakumar Yadav captained India in the T20 World Cup title win for the second time in a row and further stamped his authority as a captain. However, his position as captain comes under the scanner following a rough spell in his batting form. Suryakumar's stint with the Mumbai Indians during the IPL 2026 season was dismal as he managed to score only 270 runs in 13 matches at an average of 20.76. It was an indifferent season for the Mumbai Indians as well, who finished in 9th position in the league. He could not make much impact even in the Mumbai T20 league, which he was playing recently, and could not even score a single good innings for Triumph Knights Mumbai North East. This drop in his batting form has also brought about questions on whether he should continue to lead the Indian side or whether India's selectors should prepare a new skipper for the next cycle. Several options are already there in consideration if selectors decide to opt for a new face. These names are Hardik Pandya, who remains a firm favourite for the role, and current ODI vice-captain, Shreyas Iyer, who has also made a case for himself in all the formats of the game recently. Others considered contenders are Sanju Samson, Tilak Varma, Axar Patel, and Ishan Kishan, who have been decent enough when it comes to captaincy at the domestic and franchise level. This drop in his batting form has also brought about questions on whether he should continue to lead the Indian side or whether India's selectors should prepare a new skipper for the next cycle. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India's next T20I fixture is a two-match series against Ireland on June 26 and 28, with the squad announcement to take place later this month, followed by a five-match T20I series in England and three more matches in Zimbabwe. Article Source: IANS
ILT20 teams concerned over new rules mandating Afghanistan, Ireland player recruitment
From the 2026 season, the league has stipulated that all squads will need to include at least four Afghanistan players and one from Ireland
Allround effort from Durham secures victory at Yorkshire
England legspinner Sarah Glenn makes Yorkshire debut after recovering from broken finger
Austin's power not enough to break Bears' losing streak
The Blaze clinch fourth win in five Blast games despite young opener's 74 off 51 balls
Jemima Spence fifty leads Surrey to victory
Essex denied a third consecutive win despite 85 not out by skipper Grace Scrivens
Indian Premier League: Former England captain Nasser Hussain believes India can no longer overlook teenage batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. He insists the 15-year-old has done enough to earn a spot on the national team after a record-breaking Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season. In the latest edition of The ICC Review with Sanjana Ganesan, Hussain praised the young player, who impressed in the tournament with an outstanding 776 runs in 16 matches at a strike rate of 237.30. His total of 72 sixes was also the highest by any batter in a single IPL season. For Hussain, the question of whether Sooryavanshi is ready for international cricket is already answered. Such an easy answer to give to that is that yes, he has to play. I didn't watch too much of the IPL, to be honest, but I watched clips of Sooryavanshi, and what an incredible talent, Hussain said. The teenager's accomplishments have made him one of the most talked-about young cricketers globally. Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has already predicted a senior India debut for him, while batting legend Sachin Tendulkar recently praised the young players bat swing and fearless approach. Hussain shared that Tendulkar's admiration for Sooryavanshi reminded him of his first encounter with the Indian great early in his international career. One of my first games for England was in the Nehru Cup, that's how long ago it was, and this young lad strode out with pads on that I'd never seen before, and his name was Sachin Tendulkar, Hussain recalled. And I was in complete awe, and I've noticed Sachin putting out some tweets about Sooryavanshi's bat swing. If you can impress Sachin Tendulkar and impress Virat Kohli and the rest, he's impressed, everyone. What an unbelievable talent. The challenge for India's selectors lies in finding space for Sooryavanshi in a batting line-up already filled with established T20 stars. Players like Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, and Ishan Kishan have all played key roles at the top of the order in recent years. Yet Hussain believes exceptional talent should take precedence over selection challenges. So anywhere else in the world, you would say get him in. But usually at the toss, you just have to name 11 players. In international cricket, who do you leave out for him? India has a list of batters they could play and should play, but in the end, someone makes a case, a consistent case, and an incredible case for being picked. In the end, you have to say, I don't care who we're leaving out, this lad has to play, Hussain said. While supporting Sooryavanshi for immediate international chances, Hussain noted that the teenager's toughest tests still lie ahead. He pointed out that the young player has yet to face extended challenges in unfamiliar overseas conditions or experience the usual rough stretch that every batter encounters. And I'm getting to that point where you say this lad has to play because there are other challenges doing it away from home. Doing it against a ball that's moving, facing a downturn in form, which he's not had yet, finding a weakness, maybe the short ball, who knows? But he needs to get through all of that before you get to a world event, and he's going to be a star. We saw it in the U19 World Cup. We saw what he did to England in the U19 World Cup, to everyone, but England in particular. My word, this lad is a talent, and he has to play, he added. And I'm getting to that point where you say this lad has to play because there are other challenges doing it away from home. Doing it against a ball that's moving, facing a downturn in form, which he's not had yet, finding a weakness, maybe the short ball, who knows? Also Read: Live Cricket Score His rapid progress has already earned him further recognition, with selectors naming him in the India A squad for the upcoming tri-series featuring Sri Lanka and Afghanistan starting on June 9. Article Source: IANS
Resolute Zverev reels in Mensik to return to French Open final
Zverev will face the winner of the all-Italian clash between 10th seed Flavio Cobolli and Matteo Arnaldi
