Women's T20 WC: Danni Wyatt-Hodge's Ton Set Up 87-run Win For England Over Sri Lanka
The ICC Women: The ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 is bigger and bolder than ever. And hosts England fashioned a blockbuster start, piling on a tournament high of 219/1 in the opening match against Sri Lanka, here on Saturday. It was Danni Wyatt-Hodge who set the ball rolling with an unbeaten 105. Carrying that confidence in the field, England dismissed Sri Lanka for 132 for a statement 87-run win, reports ICC. Nat Sciver-Brunt's side is not just grappling with the pressure of playing a home World Cup, but also have history to contend with -- England women's team have never lost a World Cup they have hosted, either ODI or T20I. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka are chasing their first title at the World Cup. Leading the team is Chamari Athapaththu, who has competed in each of the 10 T20 World Cup editions, starting with the inaugural tournament in 2009. After being put into bat, England started cautiously, hitting the accelerator just before the end of powerplay to score 51/0 in the first six over. A 135-run opening wicket partnership between Amy Jones (53) and Wyatt-Hodge gave them the perfect launchpad. They kept pressing the advantage, making sure they got the quick ones and twos even though the boundaries flowed easily. It has been a life-changing month for Wyatt-Hodge, whose partner Georgie gave birth to their first child on May 20. Just a few days later, she came out to score the opening hundred of the World Cup, seventh in the tournament history and only second by an English woman. She made the most of the width afforded to her. Wyatt-Hodge brought up the milestone with a sweep for four and put a exclamation on a historic innings for England with another boundary on the final ball. That meant, England scored 26 runs from the final over, another record for the history books. Carrying her bat through, Wyatt-Hodge ended at 105 off 62, with the help of 13 fours and a six. Jones was a tad lucky as she was dropped on 12 and then again on 48. She brought up her seventh half-century in T20Is, scoring 53 off 38. Sri Lanka struggled to hit the spots with the ball and were sloppy in field as well. They finally got a breakthrough in the 14th over as Jones mistimed a delivery by Malki Madara and ended up spooning a catch to Athapaththu at mid off. However, that didn't halt the English juggernaut. Nat Sciver-Brunt, who has recently recovered from injury, played with conviction and innovation to score 46 off 22. Chasing a record target, Sri Lanka never really got going. Talismanic skipper Chamari Athapaththu fell for four in the fourth over, courtesy an incredible catch from wicketkeeper Wyatt-Hodge off Charlie Dean and Sri Lanka slipped to 39/3 in powerplay. The only glimmer of hope was Harshitha Samarawickrama, who struck three fours and a six for 29. But Freya Kemp snuffed out the danger, as she got the ball to straighten and get past Samarawickrama's defence. Chasing a record target, Sri Lanka never really got going. Talismanic skipper Chamari Athapaththu fell for four in the fourth over, courtesy an incredible catch from wicketkeeper Wyatt-Hodge off Charlie Dean and Sri Lanka slipped to 39/3 in powerplay. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Lower down the order, Nilakshika Silva came up with a gritty 37, the highest score for Sri Lanka on the day, but it was too little too late. Article Source: IANS
Wyatt-Hodge century drives England to statement victory in tournament opener
Freya Kemp starred with four wickets, as Sciver-Brunt makes emphatic return from injury
'Not looking to defend anything' - Melie Kerr wants New Zealand to start again
Hayley Matthews evokes West Indies' 2016 triumph ahead of semi-final rematch from last time around
Women's T20 WC: Danni Wyatt-Hodge's Whirlwind Ton Helps England Post Highest Total Ever
T20 World Cup: Danni Wyatt-Hodge slammed a 61-ball unbeaten hundred and led a sensational top order performance as England posted 219/1 in 20 overs, the highest team total in the history of the Women's T20 World Cup, against Sri Lanka in the opening match of the tournament at Edgbaston in Birmingham on Friday. The 219/1 posted by England is the highest innings score ever in the Women's T20 World Cup, bettering the previous best of 213/5 by England against Pakistan in 2023. After Sri Lanka captain Chamari Athapaththu won the toss and elected to field first, Amy Jones (53) and Danni Wyatt-Hodge (105 not out) laid the foundation for the massive total with a 135-run opening partnership. The hosts made a watchful start, but exploded into action to raise 51/0 in the Power-play. The two batters kept pressing on the advantage, and boundaries flowed easily. England also made sure they got the quick ones and twos to maintain the pressure. Wyatt-Hodge, whose partner Georgie gave birth to their first child on May 20, scored the opening hundred of the 2026 World Cup, the seventh in the tournament's history and only the second by an Englishwoman. It was the first century for Danni Wyatt-Hodge at the Women's T20WorldCup. Making the most of the width afforded to her, Wyatt-Hodge struck 13 boundaries and one six in her brilliant knock. She reached the milestone with a sweep for four and ended a historic innings for England with another boundary on the final ball. England scored 26 runs from the final over, another record for the event as Danni carried her bat through, ending at 105 off 62 balls. Jones was a tad lucky as she was dropped on 12 and then again on 48. She brought up her seventh half-century in T20Is, scoring 53 off 38. Wyatt-Hodge also figured in an unfinished 84-run partnership for the second wicket with skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt, who struck 46 not out off 22 balls, studded with six boundaries and one six. England scored 26 runs from the final over, another record for the event as Danni carried her bat through, ending at 105 off 62 balls. Also Read: Live Cricket Score England came into the contest on the back of a five-run win over India in their final warm-up game, while Sri Lanka won both the tune-up games, against the Netherlands and Pakistan. Article Source: IANS
WIW vs NZW Match 4 , Cricket Tips :The reigning champion New Zealand women will put their title on the line in the ICC Women's World Cup 2026. They are placed in Group B and will face the 2016 winner, West Indies, in their opening game of the tournament. This contest will be played on Saturday. The action starts at 11 PM IST at the Rose Bowl, Southampton. Amelia Kerr has the responsibility to take New Zealand to a second title in a row. Sophie Devine, Lea Tahuhu, and Suzie Bates might retire after this tournament. So, New Zealand will look to give them a winning farewell. West Indies have been guilty of inconsistency, and they need their best game to do well here. WIW vs NZW: Match Details Date : June 13, 2026 (Saturday) Time : 11 PM IST Venue : The Rose Bowl, Southampton WIW vs NZW Live Streaming Details Fans can watch the live action of the WIW vs NZW on the Star Sports networks. The live stream of the game will be provided on the Jio Hotstar app or website. WIW vs NZW Head-to-Head in T20Is Total Matches : 24 West Indies Women : 05 New Zealand Women : 16 No - Result : 03 WIW vs NZW: Ground Pitch Report The Rose Bowl is considered a good venue for the batting side. It is a high-scoring venue and has seen some big totals in T20Is. The wicket might assist bowlers in the first half, and the overcast conditions will be another challenge for the batters. WIW vs NZW Possible XIs WIW : Deandra Dottin, Qiana Joseph, Hayley Matthews (c), Stafanie Taylor, Jahzara Claxton, Jannillea Glasgow, Shemaine Campbelle (wk), Aaliyah Alleyne, Shawnisha Hector, Zaida James, Karishma Ramharack NZW : Suzie Bates, Melie Kerr (c), Isabella Gaze (wk), Sophie Devine, Brooke Halliday, Maddy Green, Jess Kerr, Izzy Sharp, Nensi Patel, Rosemary Mair, Bree Illing WIW vs NZW Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Captain Amelia Kerr has been the key batter for New Zealand and will have a key role in this game. For West Indies, Hayley Matthews holds the key with the bat. Probable Best Bowler In the bowling department, Jess Kerr and Aaliyah Alleyne can be tough to face in these conditions. Today Match Prediction : New Zealand have been more consistent and have more quality in their squad. Hence, we predict New Zealand Women to win this game. WIW vs NZW Match 4, ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026, Today 2026 Match, WIW vs NZW 2026 Prediction, WIW vs NZW Predicted XIs, Injury Update for WIW vs NZW Match Also Read: Live Cricket Score Disclaimer : The predictions 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.
AUSW vs SAW Match 3 , Cricket Tips :The last two ICC events have not gone well for Australia Women. They have failed to reach the final as well. They were eliminated from the semifinal of T20 World Cup 2024 after losing to South Africa Women. Now, these two teams will be up against each other. Australia and South Africa will lock horns on Saturday at Old Trafford at 7 PM IST in the third game of the Women's T20 World Cup 2026. This is a big game, and Australia will look to revamp their dominance in the ICC event. South Africa have been consistent in the last 2-3 ICC events. They will look to take down Australia in this game. AUSW vs SAW: Match Details Date : June 13, 2026 (Saturday) Time : 7 PM IST Venue : Emirates Old Trafford, Manchester AUSW vs SAW Live Streaming Details The live action of the AUSW vs SAW will be available on the Star Sports networks. Fans can also watch the game through the JioHotstar app or website. AUSW vs SAW Head-to-Head in T20Is Total Matches : 11 Australia Women : 09 South Africa Women : 02 No - Result : 00 AUSW vs SAW: Ground Pitch Report Old Trafford has been a good T20I wicket. It has good bounce and pace, and fast bowlers will be in the game. There might not be much assistance for the spinners. Batting conditions will get better with time. AUSW vs SAW Possible XIs AUSW : Georgia Voll, Phoebe Litchfield, Beth Mooney (wk), Ellyse Perry, Ashleigh Gardner, Annabel Sutherland, Nicola Carey, Georgia Wareham, Sophie Molineux (c), Kim Garth, Alana King SAW : Sune Luus, Laura Wolvaardt (c), Tanzim Brits, Marizanne Kapp, Nadine de Klerk, Chloe Tryon, Annerie Dercksen, Shabnim Ismail, Sinalo Jafta (wk), Nonkululeko Mlaba, Ayabonga Khaka AUSW vs SAW Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Laura Wolvaardt and Ellyse Perry are two experienced batters from two teams, and they will be looking to take their teams off to a good start. Probable Best Bowler Shabnim Ismail and Alana King have been in wicket-taking form for their teams in recent times. Today Match Prediction : Australia Women are the superior side to South Africa. Hence, we predict Australia Women will win on Saturday. AUSW vs SAW Match 3, ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026, Today 2026 Match, AUSW vs SAW 2026 Prediction, AUSW vs SAW Predicted XIs, Injury Update for AUSW vs SAW Match Also Read: Live Cricket Score Disclaimer : The predictions 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.
Jharkhand T20 Cricket League: Koylanchal Super Kings and the Jamshedpur Steelers secured hard-fought victories over Chota Nagpur Royals and Dhanbad Diamonds respectively on day three of the Jharkhand T20 Cricket League held at the JSCA International Stadium Complex. Koylanchal Super Kings won by five wickets while Jamshedpur Steelers sealed their victory by 7 runs. In the opening match of the day on Friday, Chota Nagpur Royals were bowled out for 190 in 19.4 overs. Chandan Kumar Mukhi top-scored for his side with a brisk 49. He was well-supported by openers MD Nazim Siddiqui (41) and Virat Singh (36) in the innings. For the Koylanchal Super Kings, Shubh Sharma was the pick of the bowlers, returning figures of 3/43 in his 3.4 overs. Chasing a target of 191, Koylanchal Super Kings got off to a flyer as Utkarsh Singh (53) and Player of the Match Sharandeep Singh Bhatia (79) stitched together a commanding 122-run opening partnership. A late cameo from Shubh Sharma guided the team home in 19.1 overs, finishing at 192/5 to seal a five-wicket victory with five balls to spare. For the Royals, Suprieyo Chakraborty, only the third bowler in the league to claim a five-wicket haul, bowled a magnificent spell of 5/29 in vain. The second encounter of the day saw another batting masterclass as the Jamshedpur Steelers posted a formidable total of 202/6 with Adarsh Giri (41) and Kumar Debobrat (24) performing with the bat. For Dhanbad Diamonds, Shamshed Ahmad led the bowling attack with figures of 4/39, while Atul Singh Surwar chipped in with 2/33. Chasing a target of 191, Koylanchal Super Kings got off to a flyer as Utkarsh Singh (53) and Player of the Match Sharandeep Singh Bhatia (79) stitched together a commanding 122-run opening partnership. A late cameo from Shubh Sharma guided the team home in 19.1 overs, finishing at 192/5 to seal a five-wicket victory with five balls to spare. For the Royals, Suprieyo Chakraborty, only the third bowler in the league to claim a five-wicket haul, bowled a magnificent spell of 5/29 in vain. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Pratik Ranjan was the star with the ball for Jamshedpur, returning economical figures of 3/27 to turn the tide in the middle overs. Ravi Sharma took 2/24 in his 3 overs and the player of the match trophy for his contribution of 30* off 19 balls runs with the bat as well. Article Source: IANS
IND vs AFG 1st ODI Prediction, Match Preview And Playing XI
IND vs AFG 1st ODI , Cricket Tips :Team India will be back in action for a three-match ODI series. They beat Afghanistan in the one-off test by an innings and 300 runs. The first ODI between India and Afghanistan will be played at Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Dharamsala, on Saturday at 1:30 PM IST. Shubman Gill will lead the high-profile Indian side. The hosts will miss Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, and Mohammed Siraj due to injuries, while Jasprit Bumrah has been rested. Afghanistan have a star-studded lineup, and they can surprise Indians on their day. India can't take Afghanistan lightly, and we might see a good contest. IND vs AFG: Match Details Date : June 13, 2026 (Saturday) Time : 1:30 PM IST Venue : Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Dharamsala IND vs AFG: Live Streaming Details Indian fans can watch the live action of the first ODI on Star Sports Networks. Fans can also access the live stream on the Jio Hotstar app or website. IND vs AFG: Head-to-Head in ODIs Total Matches : 04 India : 03 Afghanistan : 00 Drawn : 01 IND vs AFG: Ground Pitch Report The wicket at HPCA Stadium is fast and bouncy. Fast bowlers will get good assistance from the wicket. The overcast conditions can make the outfield slow. The batting conditions will be a little challenging, but these are expected to settle with time. IND vs AFG: Possible XIs India : Shubman Gill (c), Rohit Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Prince Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna Afghanistan : Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Sediq Atal, Rahmat Shah, Hasmatullah Shahidi (c), Azmatullah Omarzai, Md. Nabi, Rashid Khan, AM Ghazanfar, Ziaur Rahman Sharifi, Fareed Malik IND vs AFG: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Shubman Gill is in fantastic form and will be a big wicket in this game. For Afghanistan, Ibrahim Zadran has been the top scorer and has scored consistently. Probable Best Bowler Arshdeep Singh will get good assistance from the wicket and will be a tough bowler to face. Rashid Khan will have a big role in this game for Afghanistan. Today Match Prediction :India are superior to Afghanistan in all departments. Hence, we predict India to win the first ODI. IND vs AFG Match 1st ODI, Today Match IND vs AFG, IND vs AFG Prediction, IND vs AFG Predicted XIs, Injury Update for India vs Afghanistan 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.
League Governing Council Rajdip Gupta: The stage is set for a blockbuster finish to the T20 Mumbai League 2026, with defending champions MSC Maratha Royals taking on Arcs Andheri in the final at the Wankhede Stadium on Saturday. Earlier in the day, the venue will also witness history unfolding when SOBO Mumbai Falcons battle against Aakash Tigers MWS in the inaugural final of the T20 Mumbai Womens League. The mens final pits two in-form sides against each other. Arcs Andheri, led by India all-rounder Shivam Dube, secured their place in the summit clash with a five-wicket win over Aakash Tigers MWS in the semifinal. MSC Maratha Royals, meanwhile, continued their title defence with a hard-fought three-wicket victory over Ajinkya Rahane-led North Mumbai Panthers in the second semi-final. While Andheri have been one of the most consistent teams this season, Siddhesh Lads Royals have shown their ability to rise to the occasion when it matters most. The contest promises an intriguing battle between Dube's explosive leadership and Lad's calm tactical approach as both teams chase the coveted trophy. Hailing the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) for the smooth conduct of the tournament, Dube said his team is looking ahead to a great clash against the Royals in the final. MCA has organised this amazing league, which is one of the best leagues in India. The quality of matches has been really good. Im really excited for the final, Dube said. Lad also sounded confident ahead of a second successive final appearance, saying, Its been a great campaign built on teamwork and character. Different players have stepped up at different times, and thats what has brought us here. For the final, well keep it simple, focus on the process, win the small moments, and enjoy the occasion. If we do that, we give ourselves a strong chance of winning . Led by MCA President Ajinkya Naik and Chairman of League Governing Council Rajdip Gupta, the league has showcased the next generation of Mumbai cricket stars, including Arjun Tendulkar, Musheer Khan, and many more, all set to shine on the biggest stage. The tournament has also witnessed several standout individual performances. Bandra Blasters captain Suved Parkar leads the batting charts with 250 runs, including a century and two fifties, and currently holds the Orange Cap. Arcs Andheri's Ajay Mishra tops the bowling charts with 10 wickets and is the Purple Cap holder. Among other notable performers, Nutan Goel of Triumph Knights MNE has scored 242 runs, while Aakash Tigers batter Jay Bista has accumulated 225 runs. Divyaansh Sksena has contributed 210 runs for Andheri, while Eagle Thane Strikers' Shashwat Jagtap is the other centurion of the tournament. Sylvester Dsouza's five-wicket haul remains the best bowling performance of the season. Falcons, Tigers battle for inaugural womens crown In the women's competition, Sayali Satghare-led SOBO Mumbai Falcons will take on Humairaa Kaazi's Aakash Tigers MWS in the race for the inaugural title. The Tigers boast a formidable batting line-up, while the Falcons will rely on a potent bowling attack that has delivered consistently throughout the tournament. Commenting on her teams strength, Sayali highlighted how different players contributed across the competition and expected the same in the title clash. I think the best thing about our team is that everyone has contributed in different games. In our three wins, we had different Player of the Match winners, so were not dependent on one or two individuals. Thats a really good sign as we go into the final. All of them are doing their roles really well and executing the plans just as we have planned. Looking forward to the final, all the girls are really excited, and Im sure its going to be a great game of cricket, said the India star. Humairaa also exuded confidence in her teams ability to navigate through multiple challenges before the final. It feels great to have reached the final. We have grown stronger with each game and have shown great character as a team throughout the tournament. We've faced different challenges along the way, and the way the team has responded under pressure has been very pleasing to see. We're excited for the final and the opportunity to compete for the title. It's a big occasion, and we'll look to enjoy the moment, play good cricket, and give our absolute best, she said. Among the top performers with the bat so far, Sanika Chalke of Aakash Tigers leads the run-scoring charts with 205 runs, including two half-centuries. Thane Sky Risers' Mansi Patil follows with 166 runs, while Falcons batter Sarika Koli has chipped in with 108 runs. It feels great to have reached the final. We have grown stronger with each game and have shown great character as a team throughout the tournament. We've faced different challenges along the way, and the way the team has responded under pressure has been very pleasing to see. We're excited for the final and the opportunity to compete for the title. It's a big occasion, and we'll look to enjoy the moment, play good cricket, and give our absolute best, she said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The womens final will be played at 1 PM, followed by the mens final, starting at 7 PM. Article Source: IANS
Jordan Cox celebrates Test call-up with unbeaten 184
Essex race into the ascendancy despite being 8 for 2 after delayed start at Grace Road
Liam Livingstone marks return with five-wicket haul as Kent crumble
Ben Dawkins notches fifty but Lancashire seize control via post-tea collapse
Jordan Hermann's first Somerset century edges defending champions
The South African left-hander was supported by a maiden half-century from Thomas Rew
Ben Aitchison profits from Durham's wasteful starts
All of Durham's top six passed 25 with only Graham Clark registering a half-century
Jaydev Unadkat takes four as Sussex dominate
Unadkat led an inspired bowling performance to skittle Glamorgan for 155
Yorkshire enjoy Scarborough stroll thanks to Luxton's maiden first-class ton
Young opener builds solid partnerships with Lyth, Whiteman, Revis and Bairstow
Zaib, McSweeney bag centuries as Gloucestershire toil
Centurions combined for a new highest fourth wicket stand for Northamptonshire against Gloucestershire
Womens T20 WC: 'Visionary Thinking Needed', Says Anjum Chopra On Recurring Injuries To All-rounders
T20 World Cup: With India leaning on a five-bowler combination for the 2026 ICC Womens T20 World Cup due to injuries to key seam-bowling allrounders Amanjot Kaur and Kashvee Gautam, former captain Anjum Chopra has said that visionary thinking' is needed to manage their loads more effectively. The absence of Amanjot due to a back injury has already hurt the teams balance, with their bowling combination still having an unsettled look. Meanwhile, Kashvee and fellow seam-bowling all-rounder Pooja Vastrakar, who has spent most of the last two years at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (COE) and is currently in action in the MP Womens T20 League, have also battled extended injury layoffs. See, injuries basically, it can happen to anyone. It doesn't come calling. But obviously, for a player who is coming out of an injury, CoE gives a ready-to-play certificate once they feel that the player is ready after doing the rehab and completing all the formalities - once they give it and once you walk into a team, then as a player, normally you don't hold yourself back. You try to start from where you actually finished before you picked up the injury. So there are no half measures in it. But the body does not know that. It takes time to acclimatise, get back into that fluency, and gain that strength. Now, in this middle phase or period, there will be some times when a player obviously requires assistance, rest, and a lower workload. People are obviously well qualified who are there with the teams. They come in from the Centre of Excellence. So they know exactly what's happening. I'm hoping there is good communication between the CoE and the ones who are handling the players in the present team, that is, the physios and trainers. So if that fluency is there, then it just needs to be managed very well, Anjum told IANS in an exclusive conversation ahead of India starting its T20 World Cup campaign against Pakistan at Edgbaston on Sunday. Amanjot had missed out on a lot of cricketing action in 2024 due to a stress fracture in her back and a hand ligament tear. She returned strongly in the 2025 WPL and played a key role in Indias triumphant ODI World Cup campaign, despite needing treatment for minor flare-ups at the CoE. But a back injury and its ongoing recovery meant Amanjot was unavailable for the T20 World Cup, to be played in England from Friday till July 5. Kashvee, meanwhile, was ruled out of the entire WPL 2024 season due to a severe foot injury. In 2025, she suffered a leg injury while playing in the ODI tri-series in Sri Lanka, with scans later revealing that it was a severe right knee injury. During the T20 World Cup squad announcement press conference, it was announced that Kashvee was ruled out due to a right knee issue needing surgery. This situation has raised wider concerns over the fitness and longevity of Indias premium seam-bowling all-rounders. With the kind of workload that Amanjot Kaur or even Kashvee Gautam has, they are running around the park for 40 overs - either they are bowling, they are batting, or they are fielding, and that is what you expect from players like them. But somebody who is coming out of an injury back-to-back, playing matches or lesser time to recover, or maybe playing with a niggle, which can happen to anybody - I guess it's just about understanding how better managed these injuries can be. If somebody requires rest, should they be given or should they be pushed to go and do a drill which can be avoided? So, I mean, to be fair, I wouldn't know the exact part. But all I know is that if a player is valuable, then she or he needs to be nurtured, protected, and preserved as well, added Anjum. The buzz within the cricketing circles has been that when a player is declared fully fit, it takes time to regain full intensity at the international level, and it must be factored in while managing their return to playing or even the loads they are put through on match and non-match days. According to those aware of the developments, instead of managing for the long term, the pacers and all-rounders are pushed to bowl much more overs than planned in practice, with recovery periods cut short, resulting in overload. The buzz within the circuit has also pointed to a lack of consistency in load management, with decisions around the number of overs bowled in practice sessions decided on whims and fancies rather than a sorted structure. Many experts have claimed that this has led to recurring injuries, which have depleted the pool of seam-bowling allrounders and, in turn, have hurt the side in the lead-up to the T20 World Cup. A well-placed source told IANS that the responsibility of managing players rests with the team management rather than the CoE, as the team management has the discretion to decide whom to push and whom to rest - depending on the roles assigned to the squad members. The source added that recurring injuries place accountability on the team management, as they have access to all the relevant data, while pointing out that the blame has often been shifted to external people or support staff. The source also stressed that it is the head coach and team management who must ultimately take ownership of decisions made in handling players. A well-placed source told IANS that the responsibility of managing players rests with the team management rather than the CoE, as the team management has the discretion to decide whom to push and whom to rest - depending on the roles assigned to the squad members. Also Read: Live Cricket Score So, I guess a little bit more visionary thinking and proper planning can be done. I am sure it would be done at that level also. But because the result doesn't say so, that's why we are talking about the fact that I wish it were better handled, concluded Anjum. Article Source: IANS
Women's T20 WC: ICC Chairman Jay Shah Extends His Best Wishes To Participating Teams
ICC Chairman Jay Shah: International Cricket Council (ICC) Chairman Jay Shah has extended his best wishes to all 12 nations that will be participating in the ICC Women's T20 World Cup, which started with a clash between co-hosts England and Sri Lanka at Edgbaston, Birmingham, on Friday. Jay Shah praised the players for their commitment, talent, and determination, which he said will inspire fans for generations. As the ICC Womens #T20WorldCup begins, I extend my best wishes to all 12 participating teams. Your commitment, talent, and determination continue to inspire fans and pave the way for future generations. May this tournament showcase the very best of womens cricket and take the sport to even greater heights, Jay Shah wrote in a post on X, formerly Twitter. New Zealand are the defending champion in the 10th edition of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup, which is being hosted by the England and Wales Cricket Board, with the final scheduled for July 6. England had previously hosted the inaugural competition in 2009. A total of twelve teams are competing in 33 matches across seven venues in England. Defending champions New Zealand will begin their campaign against West Indies in the fourth match of the tournament at the Rose Bowl on Saturday. Having lifted their maiden Women's T20 World Cup title in the UAE in 2024, the White Ferns enter the competition with confidence and will be eager to make a strong start to the defence of their crown. Led by star all-rounder Melia Kerr, New Zealand are among the favourites to progress from a competitive Group 2. West Indies, captained by Hayley Matthews, will be looking to bounce back after a disappointing 3-0 T20I series defeat to England earlier this year. The Caribbean side possesses several match-winners and will be keen to upset the defending champions in their opening fixture. Australia, the most successful team in the tournament, will kick off its ICC Womens T20 World Cup 2026 campaign with a challenging Group 1 clash against South Africa at Old Trafford on Saturday. West Indies, captained by Hayley Matthews, will be looking to bounce back after a disappointing 3-0 T20I series defeat to England earlier this year. The Caribbean side possesses several match-winners and will be keen to upset the defending champions in their opening fixture. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The Proteas will once again be led by Laura Wolvaardt, who captains the side in her second consecutive T20 World Cup. South Africa will hope to carry forward the momentum they have built over recent years and challenge one of the most dominant teams in the history of the competition. Article Source: IANS
Sri Lanka win toss and bowl in World Cup opener at Edgbaston
Sciver-Brunt returns as England captain, with Capsey included ahead of Dunkley for opening contest
Cricket, Spirituality Come Together Ahead Of ODI In Dharamsala!
Former Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association: With the opening One Day International (ODI) match between India and Afghanistan is slated on Saturday at the iconic cricket stadium in Dharamsala, one of the most beautiful grounds located at an altitude of 4,000 feet above sea level, cricket and spirituality came together in a unique Himachali way. Former Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) President and Member of Parliament Anurag Thakur accompanying cricket body office-bearers on Friday sought blessings of the revered Lord Indrunag deity so that rain doesn't play a spoilsport as the Meteorological Department predicted rain and thundershowers. The temple dedicated to the rain god is located in hills overlooking the stadium. Cricket fans, too, participated in the prayers. For generations, Lord Indrunag has been regarded as the protector of the Kangra Valley and a divine guardian associated with favourable weather and overall prosperity. Seeking the blessings before major international matches has become a cherished tradition, reflecting the unique bond between cricket, culture and faith in Dharamsala, the abode of Tibetan spiritual leader The Dalai Lama, an HPCA functionary told IANS. The stadium, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, has 12 corporate boxes, each having a seating capacity of 20 seats. Each box was much in demand in all the previous matches, both international and T20. A Met official in Shimla said widespread rains and thundershowers might occur in the region till June 14 due to fresh Western disturbance over north Pakistan and adjoining Jammu and Kashmir. Sustained wind with a speed 40-50 km per hour is likely to prevail in state's Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti districts till June 13, he added. Meanwhile, the cricket fever across Dharamsala is electrifying as fans from across the country are set to descend to witness the match. Former Indian captain Rohit Sharma, captain Shubman Gill, along with several other Indian stars, have already arrived here, further fuelling excitement among cricket lovers. Fresh snowfall this week on the stadium's overlooking majestic Dhauladhar ranges has transformed the mountains chucking with a breathtaking panorama. The snow-clad peaks have once again reminded the fans that why Dharamsala's showpiece stadium is widely regarded as the most beautiful venue on the planet. With crystal-clear mountain air, pleasant weather and unmatched Himalayan vistas, the ODI promises to be far more than a cricket match, it will be a celebration of sport, culture, spirituality and nature. Speaking on the occasion, HPCA Secretary Manuj Sharma told the media that with the blessings of Indrunag deity all preparations for the match have been completed and the association is looking forward to hosting another memorable international fixture. Former Union Minister Anurag Thakur said this cricket stadium has become one of Himachal Pradesh's greatest ambassadors on the global stage. From its humble beginnings to becoming one of the most admired cricket venues in the world, Dharamsala has showcased the beauty, culture and hospitality of Himachal Pradesh to millions across the globe. International matches have generated employment, strengthened tourism and brought immense pride to the people of the state. The HPCA has consistently delivered world-class events, and tomorrow's ODI will be another memorable chapter in this remarkable journey, an elated Thakur, the brain behind the stadium, said. It is a matter of pride that Dharamsala continues to host some of the most prestigious matches in world cricket. The response from fans has been overwhelming, and we are confident that tomorrow's match will be a memorable experience for players and spectators alike, he added. Incidentally, the last international match at the HPCA Stadium between India and South Africa -- a T20I -- was washed out without a ball being bowled in September 2019. HPCA Spokesperson Mohit Sood told IANS that in case of rain, the ground would be ready in less than two hours. Our drainage system is very effective to drain out rainwater. Also, we have water soaking machines and a lightweight plastic cover for covering the entire ground, he said. Stadium's air evacuation system will not only mob up excess rainwater within no time, but also helps aerate the root zone which keeps the plant healthy all throughout. The SIS Air evacuation system is a technology developed by SIS Pitches Holland, a UK-based company, installed by its India partner GreaterTEN of Mumbai. With the excitement soaring high, members of the local hospitality industry see good business prospects. They say this weekend will be giving an opportunity to cricket fans to enjoy chilly weather amid prevailing heatwave conditions in plains. The SIS Air evacuation system is a technology developed by SIS Pitches Holland, a UK-based company, installed by its India partner GreaterTEN of Mumbai. Also Read: Live Cricket Score (Vishal Gulati can be contacted at vishal.g@ians.in) Article Source: IANS
1st ODI: India Will Play Around No.3 Slot In Virat Kohlis Absence, Says Morkel
Indian Premier League: Indias fast bowling coach Morne Morkel has indicated that the team will experiment with the number three batting position in Virat Kohlis absence during the threematch ODI series against Afghanistan, starting at the HPCA Stadium on Saturday. Kohli was ruled out of the three ODIs against Afghanistan due to a hamstring injury picked up while hitting a match-winning 75 not out in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 final against the Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad. In his absence, Ishan Kishan, KL Rahul, and Yashasvi Jaiswal are in contention to bat at number three. I think thats something that in this series well play around with, (whether) its Ishan (Kishan) or KL (Rahul) or Yashasvi (Jaiswal). We have got a couple of oneday games coming up, and well give guys an opportunity in different slots to give ourselves a better idea of how we can structure teams and have different options, Morkel said in the pre-match press conference. Rahul has largely featured as a middle-order batter in the past five years, but in Indias training session on Friday, Kishan was on keeping duties while Rahul was tasked with taking outfield catches, thus raising the prospect of the Karnataka lad being promoted up the order for Saturdays clash. Morkel also spoke about the new pacers Prince Yadav and Gurnoor Brar, who are in line to get their international debuts in the series, with the next two games to be played in Lucknow and Chennai on June 17 and 20, respectively. First impressions, it is almost like theyve been part of the squad for five years. I saw no nervousness on their face. The way theyve gone about training, the energy theyve trained with, was good to see, he said. Morkel signed off by saying that Rohit Sharma was all fine after being spotted training with a different thigh pad, initially thought as protection for his hamstring, which he injured during IPL 2026. First impressions, it is almost like theyve been part of the squad for five years. I saw no nervousness on their face. The way theyve gone about training, the energy theyve trained with, was good to see, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Rohit is moving well and training well. So excited to see him go. Always nice to have his experience back as well. Just the calmness that he brings to the dressing room is always a positive to have. He's training well, he's moving well. So I know that he's also excited to go. Article Source: IANS
Rohit Would Want To Score Those Big Hundreds That Everyone Expects From Him, Says Piyush Chawla
Vijay Hazare Trophy: Former India legspinner Piyush Chawla has said veteran opener Rohit Sharma will be keen to hit the big hundreds that fans and the team have come to expect from him when the threematch ODI series against Afghanistan begins in Dharamshala on Saturday. When you are playing just one format for India, you want to spend as much time at the crease as possible because, no matter how much net practice or match simulation you do, an international match, regardless of the opposition, is a different challenge. So, as a batter, you want to score big runs and, if he is completely fit, he would want to score those big hundreds that everyone has come to expect from him. Because more than those quick 40s and 50s, the team would want those innings of 120-130 runs off 100 deliveries from Rohit, said Chawla on JioHotstar. On potential debutants during the series, Chawla felt Delhi-based rookie pacer Prince Yadav could get a chance. All three of Gurnoor, Harsh Dubey, and Prince Yadav might get an opportunity during the series as an audition, especially if India win the first two games. But I see Prince Yadav as the strongest contender to get a chance among them. Not just in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, even in the IPL, under pressure, he executed his plans, bowled those yorkers consistently, and took wickets. So, my eyes will definitely be on him. Quizzed on who fills the number three slot in Virat Kohlis absence and the bowling combination with no Hardik Pandya around, Chawla said the likes of Yashasvi Jaiswal, Washington Sundar, and Kuldeep Yadav should be backed to fill those vacancies in the playing eleven. Yashasvi Jaiswal hasnt done anything wrong. In the last ODI he played, he scored a century against South Africa. But given the current form, I feel Ishan Kishan would get the nod. And when you travel for a World Cup, you need a backup wicketkeeper, so he fits both those roles, a backup opener, and a backup keeper. Among the spinners, I would go with Washington Sundar and Kuldeep Yadav. Washington helps extend the batting until No. 8, and Kuldeep will take care of the middle overs. If you look at his ODI numbers, not many bowlers are even close to him. Among the pacers, I would like Arshdeep to get some game time, a bowler who can pick up early wickets, along with Prasidh Krishna. Among the spinners, I would go with Washington Sundar and Kuldeep Yadav. Washington helps extend the batting until No. 8, and Kuldeep will take care of the middle overs. Also Read: Live Cricket Score You will have Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi operating in the middle overs. And we know that Indian batters in the middle order like to show their intent against spin, so it will be a fascinating battle. That phase of the game will play an important role in determining the outcome. Article Source: IANS
Bengal T20 League Season: A dominant all-round performance helped Murshidabad Kings secure their first victory of the Bengal T20 League Season 3, defeating Rashmi Nes Medinipur Wizards by 28 runs via the DLS Method at Eden Gardens on Thursday. Batting first, Murshidabad Kings posted an imposing 201/5 in their 20 overs. Rishabh Chaudhary led the charge with a fluent 71 off 49 deliveries, while Saksham Chaudhary contributed a well-made 50 off 37 balls. Toufik Uddin Mondal provided the late flourish with a blistering 37 off just 17 deliveries to take his side past the 200-run mark. For Medinipur Wizards, Debopratim Halder was the most successful bowler, claiming two wickets. In reply, Medinipur Wizards struggled to keep pace with the required rate and were 95/5 in 11.5 overs when rain interrupted play. With conditions preventing any further action, Murshidabad Kings were declared winners by 28 runs under the DLS Method. Priyanshu Gaurav Srivastava top-scored for the Wizards with 32 off 22 balls, but the Murshidabad bowlers kept the batting line-up under pressure throughout the chase. Toufik capped off an impressive all-round outing by returning figures of 3/28, playing a key role in guiding Murshidabad Kings to a memorable victory. 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 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. Men's matches are held at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, with women's matches at the JU Salt Lake Campus, Kolkata. Brief scores: Murshidabad Kings vs Rashmi NES Medinipur Wizards Murshidabad Kings: 201/5 (20 overs) Murshidabad Kings vs Rashmi NES Medinipur Wizards Also Read: Live Cricket Score Result: Murshidabad Kings won by 28 runs (DLS Method) Article Source: IANS
It Just Feels Like Right Time For Me To Step Away: Williamson On Retirement Decision
World Test Championship: Kane Williamson said it feels like the right time to walk away from international cricket, explaining that he wanted to leave the game while still fully committed rather than continue simply to add more appearances to his record. The former New Zealand captain announced his retirement from international cricket after the first Test against England at Lord's. This marked the end of a notable 16-year international career that included 110 Tests. Williamson shared that he made this decision while sitting on the Lord's balcony after New Zealand's defeat in the opening Test. It just feels like the right time for me to step away, Williamson was quoted by ESPNcricinfo as saying. The 35-year-old spent several days thinking about his choice and discussing it with his parents and partner before informing a small group that included captain Tom Latham, head coach Rob Walter, and team manager Mike Sandle. Most of his teammates were surprised by the news, learning of his decision on Friday morning when he called an informal meeting at the team's hotel. The timing surprised many, considering New Zealand had just started a three-Test series against England and had a packed home season against India and Australia approaching. However, Williamson emphasised that he did not want to be part of the squad unless he could fully commit. When I look at the dressing room now and see the talent, and the journey that I think this team's looking to go on, it just feels like the right time for me to step away, he stated. I feel really good about it. It's funny when you reflect on so much, but all good things come to an end. It's the change of seasons. Williamson admitted retirement was not on his mind before the Lord's Test, but the experience led him to reflect deeply. I didn't have it in mind, he said. At that point, you want to value every experience and really commit, because thats what you have done, and what you expect from everyone else in the group. They definitely do that in a big way. So, yes, a bit of reflection. Obviously, that was an interesting match itself, but I was sitting up there on the balcony and thinking a bit about it. Then I took some time in the days after to get comfortable with the idea. I really like being grateful for the time I've had with this New Zealand cricket team, and I also feel excited about the potential I see in the group. Having turned down a New Zealand central contract two years ago to better balance his workload and spend more time with his family, Williamson said he felt at peace stepping away while still able to perform at a high level. It feels good not to exhaust it, because it's not just about me, he said. There are many factors and a deep care for the team. Williamson also felt satisfied that he finished his international career at the home of cricket instead of planning a farewell match in New Zealand. Playing that last game at Lord's is kind of cool, he said. I have too much respect for this team and where it's wanting to go. He will stay with the squad for the rest of the England tour but plans to step back and let a new generation of leaders emerge. I'll be giving the team a bit of space, Williamson said. I remember the day when other leaders in our team left. There are steps to take, and I think my stepping away allows that. Head coach Rob Walter acknowledged the significant loss for New Zealand. You don't lose Kane Williamson off the team sheet and get stronger, because he's a legend, Walter said. When addressing the timing of the announcement, Walter added, Everyone is asking, 'Why in the middle of the series?' but you hear his reasons, and you understand fully. That's the person he is, and the regard that he has for the team. It's not just about continuing because it's the end of a series. He wants to give the opportunity to someone else to take his place and fill a long-term role for the team. Looking back on his career, Williamson pointed out New Zealand's victory over India in the 2021 World Test Championship final as one of his proudest moments. It was a real evolution of the side to reach that point, to deliver strong performances consistently, and to see some success after the ups and downs we experienced, he said. It was great, but for those reasons rather than just the win. The veteran also reflected on his journey from his Test debut to becoming one of the most respected figures in the sport. Remembering your first Test is special. It was the best thing ever. Even if you never play again, you have your baggy cap. It's incredible, he said. Then, 16 years later, you're here making this decision. It's been an incredible journey. When asked how he would like to be remembered, Williamson's response reflected the values that defined his career. Oh gosh, I didn't prepare for this one, he said with a smile. Just as someone who cared deeply about the team, always wanted to do more, and was committed to my craft. I'm really grateful for it all. While his international cricket career is now over, Williamson has not ruled out staying involved in the game. After working as a strategic advisor with the Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL, coaching could be one avenue for him. Oh gosh, I didn't prepare for this one, he said with a smile. Just as someone who cared deeply about the team, always wanted to do more, and was committed to my craft. I'm really grateful for it all. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Williamson added that he remains undecided about continuing to play franchise cricket. I'm just going to cross that bridge when I come to it. No specific plans in the playing department, but we'll see. Article Source: IANS
Its Been A Pleasure Watching You Bat: Kohli, Jay Shah Hail Williamsons Legacy After Retirement
ICC Chairman Jay Shah: Former India captain Virat Kohli and ICC Chairman Jay Shah led tributes to New Zealand batting great Kane Williamson after the Black Caps stalwart announced his retirement from international cricket, bringing an end to a distinguished 16-year career. Williamson, regarded as one of the finest batters of his generation, called time on an international journey that saw him become New Zealands highest run-scorer across formats with 19,346 runs in 378 matches, including 48 centuries and six double-hundreds. Kohli, who shared one of modern crickets most respected rivalries and friendships with Williamson, posted an emotional message on social media, reflecting on their bond beyond the cricket field. From an opponent to a friend over the years. Its been a pleasure watching you bat and compete against you over so many years, but more than that, I value our friendship and shared perspectives on the game and beyond, Kohli wrote on X. I continue to cherish every time we speak or meet. Wishing you nothing but the best always, brother. Youve done your bit, you deserve to enjoy all of it now and put your feet up. Well done, mate, lifes only just begun, He added. ICC Chairman Jay Shah also congratulated Williamson on a career defined by excellence and leadership. Congratulations to Kane Williamson on an exceptional international career built on class, humility, and outstanding leadership. Your achievements as the ICC Mens Cricket World Cup 2019 Player of the Tournament and the captain of New Zealand's historic ICC World Test Championship 2021 triumph will remain etched in cricketing history, Shah wrote in a post on X. Wishing you continued success and fulfilment in all your future endeavours, The ICC chair added. Williamsons retirement drew admiration from across the cricketing world, with former Australia opener David Warner also paying a heartfelt tribute to his longtime friend and rival. Kano, its been an absolute privilege to play both alongside you and against you over the years. The runs, the records, and the achievements speak for themselves, but what has always stood out most to me is the person behind it all. Youve been one of the genuine good blokes of world cricket humble, respectful, and someone who played the game in the right spirit every single time you walked onto the field. Whether we were teammates or opponents, I always loved sharing the field with you because you brought out the best in everyone around you. Kano, its been an absolute privilege to play both alongside you and against you over the years. The runs, the records, and the achievements speak for themselves, but what has always stood out most to me is the person behind it all. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The 35-year-old Williamson leaves the international game as one of New Zealand crickets most influential figures. Apart from captaining the side to the inaugural ICC World Test Championship title in 2021, he led the Black Caps to the final of the 2019 World Cup and was widely praised for his calm leadership and sportsmanship. Article Source: IANS
Womens T20 WC 2026: When And Where To Watch WI Vs NZ, Know All Details
T20 World Cup: Defending champions New Zealand will begin their ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 campaign against West Indies in the fourth match of the tournament at the Rose Bowl on Saturday. Having lifted their maiden Women's T20 World Cup title in the UAE in 2024, the White Ferns enter the competition with confidence and will be eager to make a strong start to the defence of their crown. Led by star all-rounder Melia Kerr, New Zealand are among the favourites to progress from a competitive Group 2. West Indies, captained by Hayley Matthews, will be looking to bounce back after a disappointing 3-0 T20I series defeat to England earlier this year. The Caribbean side possess several match-winners and will be keen to upset the defending champions in their opening fixture. Historically, New Zealand have enjoyed the upper hand in this rivalry. Of the 25 women's T20 internationals played between the two teams, the White Ferns have won 18, while West Indies have emerged victorious on five occasions. The remaining matches ended without a result or in a tie. With valuable points at stake early in the tournament, both sides will be determined to start their Women's T20 World Cup campaign on a winning note. When: Saturday, June 13, 11:00 PM IST Where: The Rose Bowl stadium, Southampton Where to watch: The West Indies vs New Zealand match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Squads: Where to watch: The West Indies vs New Zealand match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Also Read: Live Cricket Score 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 Article Source: IANS
Royal Nimar Eagles: Royal Nimar Eagles registered a thrilling 3-wicket victory over Rewa Jaguars in the Madhya Pradesh League (MPL) T20 Scindia Cup 2026 at Daly College, Indore. Chasing 131, a below-par target as per the international standards, the Eagles got over the line with just three balls to spare in what turned out to be a thrilling contest. The chase got off to a disappointing start as Royal Nimar were reduced to 11/3 in the first three overs. However, Anand Bais and skipper Saransh Jain steadied the innings with a crucial 65-run partnership for the fourth wicket. Saransh played a composed knock of 28 off 26 deliveries before being dismissed, while Bais anchored the chase brilliantly and brought up a well-crafted half-century. After the skippers departure, the Eagles suffered another setback when Shivansh Chaturvedi was dismissed for 10 off 10 balls. The drama intensified when Bais fell for 64 off 56 deliveries with the team still requiring six runs from the final eight balls with four wickets in hand. Parush Mandal was then dismissed, with Royal Nimar needing just one run from four deliveries. Abhishek Mavi kept his calm and sealed the win on the very next ball, remaining unbeaten at 15 off 8 deliveries as the Eagles completed the chase. Earlier, Rewa Jaguars endured a difficult outing with the bat, losing wickets at regular intervals throughout their innings. The side was struggling at 22/2 when Arham Aqueel and Ashwin Das came together to rebuild with a 41-run partnership. Abhishek Mavi kept his calm and sealed the win on the very next ball, remaining unbeaten at 15 off 8 deliveries as the Eagles completed the chase. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Atharva Mahajan fought a lone battle in the latter stages, remaining not out at 33 off 28 balls and helping the Jaguars score 130/8 in their allotted 20 overs. Article Source: IANS
Women's T20 World Cup: Scotland Bring In Hannah Rainey For Injured Maqsood
T20 World Cup Global Qualifier: Scotland have been forced into a late squad change ahead of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026, with Hannah Rainey officially approved as a replacement for injured leg-spinner Abtaha Maqsood. The Event Technical Committee of the tournament approved Rainey's inclusion after Maqsood was ruled out with a metacarpal fracture she sustained during Scotland's warm-up match against Pakistan on June 9. This injury is a setback for Scotland as they prepare for their second consecutive Women's T20 World Cup under the leadership of experienced all-rounder Kathryn Bryce. Bryce will captain a team that mixes experience with youth, featuring three players from the ICC Women's Under-19 T20 World Cup 2025: bowler Gabriella Fontenla, wicketkeeper-batter Pippa Sproul, and uncapped pace bowler Maisie Maceira. Scotland secured their spot in the tournament in England and Wales through the ICC Women's T20 World Cup Global Qualifier. They reached the Super Six stage after finishing second in Group B, behind the Netherlands. Although Scotland lost to Bangladesh in the Super Six, important wins over Ireland and the United States allowed them to finish third overall in the Global Qualifier and earn a place in the World Cup. The squad now aims to build on the experience from their first Women's T20 World Cup campaign in 2024 and make a bigger impact on the global stage. Scotland face a tough task in the tournament after being drawn in a group with hosts England, Ireland, defending champions New Zealand, Sri Lanka, and the West Indies, with only the top two making it to the semi-finals. But Kathryn Bryces side comes into the competition with confidence after building encouraging momentum in the build-up to the World Cup. Although Scotland lost to Bangladesh in the Super Six, important wins over Ireland and the United States allowed them to finish third overall in the Global Qualifier and earn a place in the World Cup. The squad now aims to build on the experience from their first Women's T20 World Cup campaign in 2024 and make a bigger impact on the global stage. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Scotland Women's T20 World Cup updated squad: Kathryn Bryce (captain), Chloe Abel, Olivia Bell, Sarah Bryce, Darcey Carter, Priyanaz Chatterji, Gabriella Fontenla, Katherine Fraser, Kirstie Gordon, Ailsa Lister, Maisie Maceira, Hannah Rainey, Megan McColl, Rachel Slater, and Pippa Sproul. Article Source: IANS
Shadow Womens A Tour, CoE Coaching Appointments Reflect Boards Planning, Says Anjum Chopra
T20 World Cup: Former India captain Anjum Chopra has said the shadow womens A tour running alongside the senior teams Womens T20 World Cup campaign in England, coupled with recent Centre of Excellence (CoE) coaching appointments, is a reflection of the BCCIs systematic planning. Anushka Sharma, who made her T20I debut on the South Africa tour in April, will lead India 'A' for the three T20s against England 'A'. The matches will be played in Northampton on June 20 and 23, followed by the third fixture in Chelmsford on June 25. Harleen Deol will lead the team in the three onedayers beginning June 28 in Hove and Taunton. The 16yearold Deeya Yadav, who was with the Delhi Capitals in WPL before an injury ruled her out, has also been picked in the T20 squad. Let's just say that the entire top brass of Indian cricket players from India A, B, men and women are in the UK playing a series over there. From June onwards till the end of July, everybody who plays cricket in India at the India senior and A level is actually going to be there in the UK. So, it's a good thing, which is a very nice and important aspect as well, because consider the fact that if somebody gets injured, you can just get in a quick replacement if needed. That is the biggest plus over here when you are playing shadow tours. Also, the players you are talking about are good prospects. Whether it is Nikki Prasad, Anushka Sharma, Shabnam Shakil and anyone else, they get valuable outing and match experience and international cricket-like experience when they play on all these tours, Anjum told IANS in an exclusive conversation on Friday. G. Kamalini and Uma Chetry have been included in both squads as wicketkeeper-batters along with leftarm spinner Vaishnavi Sharma, who debuted for India last year. Pratika Rawal will serve as vicecaptain in the 50-over games, while Karnataka batter Vrinda Dinesh has been named as Anushkas deputy in the T20s. So, right now, for the women players, I guess the sky is very open. What you make of the opportunities is in your own hands because earlier, there were no A tours. Now, wherever the Indian team is playing, I think 6, 8, or even 12 months prior or like now, simultaneously as the Indian senior women team is there, the shadow tour is there, which is a great thing to happen. I feel this is actually a compliment for our cricket board because they are able to organise such matches as well on a continuous basis. It's not that one tour will go to Bangladesh, and the Indian senior team will go to England. No, it's not like that, as it's very well planned. If India have to go and play in South Africa, there will be an India 'A' tour, something which would have happened probably 10 or 12 months earlier. So, it's a nice time to be a cricketer as well, and how our cricket association plans it out, I think it's kudos to them too, added Anjum. She also welcomed the appointment of former India players, two-time U19 World Cup-winning head coach Nooshin Al Khadeer, Sunetra Paranjpe and Vanitha VR into the CoE setup, saying their absorption into the system was both timely and deserved. IANS had previously reported on May 14 about the trios appointment at the CoE, and it is understood they are mainly needed for being with the U19 womens team, who are set to play white-ball games against Sri Lanka from June 22 to July 6 in Chennai and Puducherry, respectively. It's good - Nooshin has been around with the Under-19 team since 2023 or maybe since the preparation started. So, she has been around with the Under-19 team and knows the drill. It's nice that Sunetra has also joined, and Vanitha has also taken part. Look, people who want to make a career in this coaching field, and when they get absorbed at the CoE, it means that they have obviously passed all the tests and the requisite reasons, or probably the areas in which they need to be perfectly fit in that CoE coaching setup. It's good - Nooshin has been around with the Under-19 team since 2023 or maybe since the preparation started. So, she has been around with the Under-19 team and knows the drill. It's nice that Sunetra has also joined, and Vanitha has also taken part. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Obviously, all this information gets passed on to the women's players, and I hope it does and that information is shared. But it's always nice to have people who are wanting to make a career in the field of coaching getting this opportunity, concluded Anjum. Article Source: IANS
Williamson on retiring mid-series: 'Just feels like the right time'
Williamson announced his retirement from international cricket after the first Test against England at Lord's
India face test of depth in first-ever ODI series against Afghanistan
Afghanistan will lean on their ODI experience in India, who will not have Kohli, Hardik, Siraj and Bumrah
Both Kranti Gaud: Former India captain Anjum Chopra believes both Kranti Gaud and Renuka Singh Thakur should start in India's playing eleven alongside Arundhati Reddy for the 2026 ICC Womens T20 World Cup, asserting that the trio forms the backbone of India's pace attack regardless of the experiments seen during the preceding T20I series against England. Indias bowling unit remains the bigger concern heading into their first clash against Pakistan at Edgbaston on Sunday, especially with form and selection still unsettled. Deepti Sharmas struggles since the Australia tour, the absence of a genuine allrounder like Amanjot Kaur, and Englands repeated exposure of Indias deathbowling frailties have left the thinktank searching for answers. Rookie pacer Nandni Sharma was picked on the back of a promising WPL debut, but her lack of game time in the warmups raises questions, after she picked three wickets on debut in Chelmsford. Renuka Singh Thakur showed prodigious swing against England and even produced a jaffa to dismiss Danni WyattHodge, but leaked runs in the death overs. Indias two warmup fixtures - a 26run win over West Indies and a sixrun loss to England - offered little clarity, with more questions than answers about the bowling pool, especially with Arundhati and Kranti having inconsistent returns. We don't know why Renuka didn't get a game in the first three T20s that India played against England. I mean, whether they wanted to give others an opportunity like Nandni Sharma out there in the centre, because consistency was not there with even Kranti Gaud. In my view, Kranti Gaud and Renuka Singh Thakur both start in the playing eleven for India with Arundhati Reddy. So, if you go by that fact, then you can only play two spinners. You can't play Charani, Radha, Deepti, and Shreyanka together. I mean, you have to take a pick. You can't have that kind of a build-up because India is obviously missing all-rounders here, Anjum told IANS in an exclusive conversation ahead of India playing its first game against Pakistan at Edgbaston on Sunday. In the spin bowling department, India need to decide their make-up between an expensive Deepti Sharma (who was rested from warm-up games), Shreyanka Patil, N Sree Charani, and Radha Yadav. Anjum felt that Shreyanka would be a vital cog in the wheel if India were to enter the semifinals from a tough group featuring Australia, South Africa, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and the Netherlands. Look, Shreyanka is actually playing for the very first time in England. She has never played in England. This is her very first outing, and it does take time for any cricketer to adapt and understand the conditions - whether it's hot or cold does not matter. The fact that you are playing in a different country, on a different soil, in different conditions. Even if they are closer to how you feel at home, they are still alien. So, it does take time. So, Shreyanka, for me, should be playing each and every game. She should be out there bowling in the centre as much as possible because Charani has experience of bowling in England, and she doesnt have it yet. So, for me, Shreyanka will become a very important cog in the wheel in case the Indian team decides to play her, which I feel they will do somewhere in the middle games. On the experiments carried out against England and in the warm-ups, including a trend of Deepti being introduced late in the innings as a bowler, Anjum explained, That is okay. It's fair to say that you need to give everyone a chance. Like Arundhati Reddy, I mean, before this series, I had rarely seen her bowl with a new ball, primarily because she has better control when she comes in after the new-ball bowlers have bowled. So, when she bowls in the middle overs, that's absolutely fine for her, or maybe in the death overs. But in this series, in all three games, she took the new ball. Not that she didn't bowl well, or that she bowled badly. She bowled really well. In patches, only one of the games, she got hit towards the end. But then, where her initial part of the bowling was good, her latter part, or maybe the death bowling, did not really help India as well, because I think in one of the games, she conceded about 23 or 24 runs in one of the games (in Bristol), and that can happen to any bowler. But because Arundhati has been getting that new ball, again, it makes a difference as to who will bowl from the other side. So, then you don't see Deepti Sharma taking the new ball. But again, I say, I feel these three matches were more about understanding and weighing your options and giving everyone a chance and an opportunity away from their regular positions. But then, where her initial part of the bowling was good, her latter part, or maybe the death bowling, did not really help India as well, because I think in one of the games, she conceded about 23 or 24 runs in one of the games (in Bristol), and that can happen to any bowler. Also Read: Live Cricket Score --IANS Article Source: IANS
Women's T20 WC 2026 : When And Where To Watch AUS Vs SA, Know All Details
T20 World Cup: Australia will kick off their ICC Womens T20 World Cup 2026 campaign with a challenging Group 1 clash against South Africa at Old Trafford on Saturday. The six-time champions enter the tournament as the world's top-ranked T20I side and will be aiming to make a strong start under the leadership of new captain Sophie Molineux. Meanwhile, South Africa, currently ranked fifth in the format, arrive with growing confidence as they continue to establish themselves among the elite teams in womens cricket. The Proteas will once again be led by Laura Wolvaardt, who captains the side in her second consecutive T20 World Cup. South Africa will hope to carry forward the momentum they have built over recent years and challenge one of the most dominant teams in the history of the competition. Historically, Australia have enjoyed overwhelming success against South Africa in T20 internationals. The Australians have won nine of the 11 meetings between the two teams, while South Africa have managed just two victories. Australia's dominance is even more evident on the World Cup stage. The teams have faced each other eight times in Women's T20 World Cup history, with Australia emerging victorious in seven of those contests. South Africa's only win in the tournament came during the 2023 edition. When: Saturday, June 13, 7:00 PM IST Where: Old Trafford Stadium, Manchester Where to watch: The Australia vs South Africa match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Squads: Where to watch: The Australia vs South Africa match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Also Read: Live Cricket Score 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 Niekerk Article Source: IANS
T20 World Cup: Former India captain Anjum Chopra has said batting must lead the way for the Indian team at the 2026 ICC Womens T20 World Cup, stressing that the bowling unit is still developing and will need to dig deeper if the side is to go all the way to the trophy. India will enter the 2026 ICC Womens T20 World Cup carrying the tag of ODI world champions, but their recent form has been patchy. Over the last six months, the side registered series wins at home against Sri Lanka and away against Australia, but stumbled in both recent overseas assignments against South Africa (4-1) and England (2-1). That India has to understand or the players need to probably take their roles very much seriously. Not that they don't - they do, but what I understood is that whether it is batting or bowling leading the way, the team has to decide. In my view, batting leads the way in this Indian team. If that has to happen, then there is no room for faltering of the batters because we are playing five specialist batters in this lineup and team. If five batters specializing only in one field are there, then there is no room for failures, Anjum told IANS in an exclusive conversation ahead of India starting their campaign against Pakistan on Sunday. From the three-match T20I series against England, India played a returning Yastika Bhatia at number three, which meant Jemimah Rodrigues and Harmanpreet Kaur went down to number four and five respectively. Though Yastika finished as the leading run-getter in the series with 119 runs, her strike rate of 126.79 was the lowest among the top five scorers. Anjum felt Yastikas move to number three was dictated by limited options in the middle order. I understand why these changes have been made and one big reason is the fact that they don't have many options to bat at number three. When I say options to bat at number there, if there is for example a Jemi or Harman batting, then there is no or less options for batting in the middle order. Ideally Bharti Fulmali would have been a perfect fit had she taken her chances. Indian team took her to Australia, where she was not played. I think she was on the team to South Africa also where she did not do justice to that opportunities that was given. In England also, I think one practice match that they played before the T20 series, she actually got some runs but I am pretty certain that she was not convincing. She has not been the best fielder around on the park as well. So, I am assuming because the middle order space was slightly a challenge for the Indian team, so they wanted to strengthen the top order. Now, when you strengthen the top order, there is no other place for Yastika. I mean, she can bat in the middle order, but she has got challenges of her own and keeping those challenges in mind, it is better that she bats at the top. So, that is possibly the reason why I feel that Yastika is there at number three. Quizzed on Yastikas slowness in scoring, especially after power-play, hampering Indias batting flow, Anjum felt one has to be patient with her, considering she had an ACL surgery on her left knee which ruled her out of Indias ODI World Cup winning campaign last year. See, that timing can vary. In T20 cricket, that can happen to anyone. You can start off slow but you can make up later with the fluency. You can have a great fluency going but somewhere down the line, you just lose that momentum. It can happen and let's not forget that Yastika does not have a lot of cricket behind her. For the last two years, she has been more on the sidelines. She played on Australia A tour in a few matches, but when she came back to the Indian team, she was injured and then she didn't play this season of WPL. So, she is actually coming off a big injury lay-off and that fluency is there in the stroke play. But the fluency is not there on the park in terms of running between and even fielding and that has to be managed in the side. For losing timing, that can happen to any batter. But at the end of the day, when she strikes the ball, one has to compliment that the ball actually makes a very nice sound. The bat hitting the ball makes a very nice sweet sound from Yastika's bat when she is in full flow and that is one of the big reasons why India dominated that first game (in Chelmsford). Speaking about Bharti, whos been dealing with inconsistency and lack of decent game time after making a comeback to the T20I team for the Australia tour, Anju stated that her initial selection had come as a surprise to her and that she not being at her best also led to restructuring of batting order. I don't think Bharti has taken her chances and there is no hiding from that fact. If she had taken her chances, she would have played in the middle overs in the first and second T20I. There is no way that she wouldn't have got a chance. That is in my view as I don't think she has taken her chances. Her selection was a surprise for me when it actually happened and that happened during the WPL in 2026. She did well in those couple of matches and was picked for the Indian team. The day she was picked for the Indian team, since then till the last, I didn't see the bat and the ball meeting nicely for Bharti Fulmali while playing for the franchise at all. So, I am not surprised that she has not grabbed those chances. Why? Why not? What could have been done? I do not know because I am not with the Indian team and I am not watching their practice sessions (regularly). So, I wouldn't know the fact. But what I saw of her playing, she didn't look as convincing as she was before her Indian selection, she added. On Deepti Sharmas promotion ahead of Richa Ghosh in Taunton and possibility of it being repeated in the World Cup, Anjum felt it was about giving Deepti more batting time. I feel it was just about giving game time as a batter to Deepti ahead of Richa. Whether it is right or wrong, I mean, it's a debate for any day. But I felt it was just about giving Deepti Sharma a little more game time out there in the centre because in the earlier game, she had not had that kind of batting. Coming to Richa's part, I feel that the Indian batting order is flexible and I am not a big fan of flexibility myself because I feel that every batter should know where they are playing, what they are doing. But at the end of the day, how the present scenario of this Indian batting order is, I will say that what you asked about Richa getting promoted, if need be, yes, she needs to walk in ahead of many other batters. On Indias bowling, Anjum was blunt in her assessment. See, there will not be just one factor. There will be multiple factors (of success). Of course, individually if you pick up the skill or the discipline that you are talking about, then yes, batting will in my view lead the way. Bowling has to try very hard to find ways to pick up wickets of the opposition camp. They have to literally dig deeper than what we saw in the first three T20 games (against England). In totality, it will not be just one side leading the way. I guess fielding will play a very important part and I say that for every game. It doesn't matter whether you are playing a number one or tenth ranked team. Fielding will play a very crucial part because India will be playing a lot of their matches in the daytime because of the Indian timing. So, that will also make a big difference and there will be a lot of good support for the team and it will just spur them on and encourage them because now the girls are pretty used to playing cricket in front of a good capacity crowd. They have to literally dig deeper than what we saw in the first three T20 games (against England). In totality, it will not be just one side leading the way. I guess fielding will play a very important part and I say that for every game. It doesn't matter whether you are playing a number one or tenth ranked team. Also Read: Live Cricket Score On conditions for Sundays game against Pakistan, Anjum signed off by saying India would adjust combinations as per nature of the pitch. If its a spin-assisted track in Birmingham against Pakistan, obviously you will find an extra spinner in the Indian team. If it's a good batting track, then I don't think the Indian team will pack it up with an additional spinner. They will still go with a three-seam bowling option. Article Source: IANS
'Ive Given It My All': Williamson Brings Curtain Down On Illustrious New Zealand Career
ICC Cricket World Cup: New Zealand batting great Kane Williamson announced his retirement from international cricket on Friday, bringing the curtain down on a remarkable 16-year career during which he established himself as the country's highest run-scorer across formats and one of the finest batters of his generation. The 35-year-old departs as New Zealands leading international run-getter with 19,346 runs from 378 matches, including 48 centuries and six double hundreds. Widely regarded as one of the greatest players to represent the Black Caps, Williamson also played a pivotal role as captain during one of the most successful eras in New Zealand cricket. Williamson led the national side across formats between 2016 and 2024, guiding them to two ICC Cricket World Cup finals, three semifinal appearances and the historic ICC World Test Championship title in 2021. Having already stepped away from T20 Internationals last year, Williamson said the time had come to end his international journey completely. Ive thought about it for a while, but over the last few days its become clear now is the right time. Ive always felt a strong drive and hunger for international cricket, and I take pride in knowing Ive given it my all in every match Ive played for New Zealand. Continuing with anything less wouldnt be right, and I feel fortunate to step away on my own terms. I leave feeling optimistic about where this group is heading. Theres a huge amount of talent and a real desire to do something special with this New Zealand team, Williamson said in a statement released by New Zealand cricket. Reflecting on his association with the national side, he added that representing New Zealand had been the greatest honour of his career. Its a team I love, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have been part of it for so long. It will continue to be dear to my heart, he said. New Zealand head coach Rob Walter paid tribute to Williamsons contribution, describing him as a player whose impact extended far beyond statistics. Anyone whos had the privilege of working with Kane understands he is a very special player and person. His numbers and batting skills speak for themselves, but its what he means to this Black Caps team, as well as world cricket, that will be his legacy. His impact on the culture and standards of this team will remain embedded in its DNA. Kane has always put the team first, and while were disappointed to see him go, were happy he is content with his decision, Walter said. Former New Zealand captain Sir Richard Hadlee also hailed Williamson as one of the defining cricketers of his era. Kane has been a wonderful player and a fine leader. He continually advanced his game to the highest level in all three formats and rightfully finishes as one of the best players of his generation. He was committed to improving every aspect of his game and became the architect of some of New Zealand crickets greatest moments. I thank him for everything he has contributed to the sport, Hadlee said. Williamsons career was decorated with numerous individual honours, including the ICC Cricketer of the Year award in 2015 and the ICC Test Cricketer of the Year accolade in 2019. He also won New Zealand Crickets prestigious Sir Richard Hadlee Medal a record four times. He was committed to improving every aspect of his game and became the architect of some of New Zealand crickets greatest moments. I thank him for everything he has contributed to the sport, Hadlee said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score His retirement means he will take no further part in New Zealands ongoing Test series in England, in which the Blackcaps are reeling behind 1-0, with the team management expected to name a replacement in the coming days. Article Source: IANS
Womens T20 WC: Indian Team Will Walk With Confidence Of Being ODI WC Champion, Says Anjum Chopra
T20 World Cup: Former skipper Anjum Chopra believes no side can claim favourites status in the 2026 ICC Womens T20 World Cup, but insists India carries a distinct advantage going into the tournament - the confidence of being 50-over World Cup winners. Buoyed by last years ODI World Cup triumph, India will aim to get its first Womens T20 World Cup title when they open their Group 1 campaign against Pakistan at Edgbaston on Sunday. Harmanpreet Kaur-led India are entering the World Cup on the back of 2-1 defeat to England, as well as mixed results in the warm-up clashes (winning over West Indies before losing to England). I don't think they will be talking much about the 2024 campaign because after 2024, 2025 happened. What they will be talking about is the good moments and the winning effort that the team puts in. The biggest thing is that they will be walking into this World Cup with the confidence behind them of being a world champion in a 50-over format. So, yes, India has not made such a massive impact apart from playing semifinals in 2018, and playing a final in 2020 and they have a lot of work to do. I won't say that they will start as favourites. But I will also say in the same breath that nobody starts as favourites in this World Cup, Anjum told IANS in an exclusive conversation ahead of India starting their campaign. She also pointed out that pre-tournament predictions carry limited weight once the competition begins, adding even defending champions New Zealand had arrived at the previous edition in 2024 on the back of a prolonged run of defeats. Like, New Zealand are the defending champions. If you look at the way that New Zealand is lining up for this World Cup, I won't say it's pretty much similar. Even in 2024, they had lost almost 10 games leading up to the 2024 T20 World Cup. But come the World Cup, things changed for them and they became world champions. So, as we are here before the start of this World Cup, we speak and look at teams - I don't think any team starts favourites because everybody has some area of concern in their lineup - be it Australia, South Africa, India, New Zealand, any and every team. Yes, the experience of Australia is there, as they aim for their seventh title. Yes, New Zealand will be one of those strong teams to make an impact and South Africa, in my view, is one of those probably better placed teams than many other teams in this World Cup, but nobody starts as favourites, she added. The tournament's expansion to 12 teams for the first time adds a layer of unpredictability that previous editions lacked, with Anjum warning that established sides cannot afford to take any opponent lightly once the group stage begins on Friday night. It's a tough draw - take nothing away from it. I mean, you have to accept the fact that this is the 12-team tournament for the very first time and each and every one has earned their place to get into this lineup and space. It's not about somebody being lower ranked than the other teams. Yes, some teams will obviously be lower ranked. But it's because everyone is there playing the same tournament. When you walk into the ground and cross those ropes, then there is no grading of where you stand as a team. It's about who plays better cricket on that particular day and actually wins the game. So, I don't think the Indian team will be taking anything lightly and should not be also. But it's also going to be very essential to understand that there is no room for making a mistake or complacency. It has to be spot on - it's like hitting bullseye every time you walk out because straight away, those five league matches that India or any team will be playing will count for valuable points. Then only you can say that we tried our best because everybody can't get to the same final. There will be only two teams from each pool to get into the same final after being in the semi-final and somebody will miss out and which team that will be, nobody knows. So, as a side, if India are talking about wanting to make an impact and getting to the same final, there is definitely no room for making a mistake, she elaborated. Anjum also pointed out that the women's game had evolved to a point where 200-run totals were now a baseline expectation rather than an exceptional achievement - a development that has also made predicting a winner harder than at any previous edition of the event. It should be - I won't say the closest. But I will say that because the teams have expanded and there is more (competition) from where we started, let's say in 2009, playing T20 cricket to now where we are in 2026 - I am hopeful that it becomes a little more competitive. The fact that 200 runs on the board is becoming a mandatory figure shows that you can't be resting on scoring 150-160 - gone are those days. So, that is a growth and progression in the women's game, which as well has been in the men's game. Whichever way you score, whether you hit sixes or fours or are running between the wickets - if the score line at the end of 20 overs is reading 200 or close to 200, then that means the game has obviously evolved in leaps and bounds. The WPLs impact on the Indian team selection has been visible by additions of Bharti Fulmali and Nandni Sharma, after the likes of Shreyanka Patil and N Sree Charani became established figures in the T20I set-up. But Anjum said that WPL intensity does not automatically translate into international readiness and urged patience with players making the step up. It's there and it's definitely highlighting a lot of talent which the country is producing. That is the biggest strength for India that a side like RCB has won a couple of titles, and Mumbai Indians has won as many titles too. So, all these players who keep coming back and are performing at that level and the new players who are making sure that when they step onto the park, they are there. The WPLs impact on the Indian team selection has been visible by additions of Bharti Fulmali and Nandni Sharma, after the likes of Shreyanka Patil and N Sree Charani became established figures in the T20I set-up. But Anjum said that WPL intensity does not automatically translate into international readiness and urged patience with players making the step up. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Everybody will not turn out to be like Charani, taking it like a duck to water. It will not happen like that. People will take time. If they take less time, brilliant. But international cricket does require a little bit of time, she concluded. Article Source: IANS
Kane Williamson retires from international cricket
New Zealand batter opts out of completing the ongoing Test series in England
Women's T20 WC: Chinelle Henry Experienced An Exacerbation Of A Previous Injury, Says CWI
T20 World Cup: West Indies vice-captain Chinelle Henry is being monitored by the team's medical staff after aggravating a previous injury during a Women's T20 World Cup warm-up match against Australia, Cricket West Indies (CWI) confirmed on Wednesday. Henry raised concern ahead of the tournament after being stretchered off the ground in a warm-up fixture following an awkward fall while trying to take a catch. The all-rounder had lost her footing as she went to take the catch, falling awkwardly and halting play briefly before being helped from the field. Providing an update on her condition, Cricket West Indies said in a statement: Chinelle Henry experienced an exacerbation of a previous injury and is currently being managed by the team's medical staff. Further updates will be provided as appropriate. The 30-year-old is an integral part of the West Indies squad and vice-captain of the team. Henry also brings a wealth of experience to the side having represented the Caribbean team in five previous Womens T20 World Cups. West Indies are preparing to launch their campaign in the global tournament and her fitness will be under keen observation in the days ahead. Providing an update on her condition, Cricket West Indies said in a statement: Chinelle Henry experienced an exacerbation of a previous injury and is currently being managed by the team's medical staff. Further updates will be provided as appropriate. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Australia were also again careful with the progression of Phoebe Litchfield, who sat out a second straight warm-up tie with awareness of a quad problem, the side adamant the left-hander is 100% for Saturday's tournament opener against South Africa at Old Trafford. Article Source: IANS
On T20I: Kayla Reyneke loves a laugh, but its her knack for closing out games that has been the highlight of her short international career so far. Twice in the space of two months, Kayla has turned what looked like lost causes into wins for South Africa and made it all look routine. On T20I debut against Pakistan in Potchefstroom, she walked in and hit 29 not out, including hitting a match-winning six. Later, in Christchurch, on ODI debut against New Zealand, she went one better: hitting two sixes in the final over to snatch a victory South Africa had no business claiming in the first place. That double finishing act made her the first woman to win Player of the Match on both T20I and ODI debuts. More than the stats and accolades, it was Kaylas demeanour which was more striking calm and uncluttered, as if she had rehearsed the execution of those moments a thousand times. Ask her how she stays ice-cool in jittery situations like the ones in Potchefstroom and Christchurch, Kayla, with nine T20I caps, insists theres no secret formula behind it. I really don't have any secrets. If you need to hit a six off the last ball, you need to hit a six off the last ball. You exclude everything - the noise, scoreboard, everything and you just focus on the ball and hit it. People always ask me about those moments. But I was just really focusing on the cricket ball. When it's two off one or six off one, I always practice that in power-hitting sessions. So for me, it's about how do you put yourself in that situation in practice, and how do you implement it or execute it in a game? I just wanted to smash the ball and luckily it came off, recalls Kayla in an exclusive conversation with IANS ahead of her first Womens T20 World Cup. Kaylas composure in acing pressure cooker situations isnt some innate gift. Its a skill she has engineered session by session through years of practice. I always put myself in pressure situations at training and scenario-based stuff. It will never fully come off 100 percent. But when it does, it's amazing and that's just how cricket works. One day you'll get a gun day. But the next day you'll just be grinding and grafting through it because that's cricket. It has its ups and downs. It's about staying in the moment and working as hard as you can. The philosophy extends to her training sessions, which are meant to be purposeful and organised around clarity of intent. With my batting, bowling and fielding, there needs to be a purpose in what you're doing. Going to a training session and going to a match are two different things. But my routine needs to stay the same. When I'm hitting balls, what do I want to get out of this session? With my bowling, is it variations, or is it my normal stuff to batters? There's always got to be something behind it. I think sometimes we make cricket so complicated. But at the end of the day, it's ourselves. You've just got to believe that we actually can do it. It's really not impossible. So it's quite simple, she added. That inner calm in Kayla was forged in the nets under Western Province coach and ex-South Africa player Claire Terblanche, and later hardened in the Under-19 setup under former Proteas cricketer Dinesha Devnarain. There, Kayla also grew into a leader, steering South Africa to the 2025 U19 Womens T20 World Cup final while bagging 11 wickets at 11.54. Those closing-over heroics on debut were simply the most visible proof of a temperament built long before. I've known coach Claire since I was 11 years old, so it's been a very long time - I think she's pretty tired of me now. But a lovely human being and has always been there for me. Then in the U19 space, I went under coach Dinesha. I haven't known her for as long, but working with her has been an absolute honour. They both have a lot of cricket knowledge and it's lovely to work with both of them. Before cricket took over, Kayla had other sporting pursuits. At high school she dabbled in hockey, but it was javelin throw where she excelled more. In 2019, at just 14, she won the South African age-group title with a throw of 45.97 metres. But by grade 10, though, the choice became unavoidable. Competing in Javelin throw had left her with injuries, including to the lower back, and that made the decision easier than it might have been - cricket, with its wider horizon, won for Kayla. Javelin gave me a lot of injuries. Whereas in cricket, yes, there are still injuries. But there are a lot of pros to it. You play with people. You get to meet new friends. You get to see the world. I just continued to follow my love for the game and made that decision at 16. The pivot to off-spin bowling accidentally happened for Kayla. She began as a pace bowler I didn't bowl fast at all, but I felt very fast at that time she says with a chuckle. One day, fooling around in a net session, Kayla started experimenting with off-spin bowling and Claire told her to go ahead with it. Ever since then I've just been bowling off-spin and it's been helping a lot. I'm obviously still learning about my bowling and my batting. But I really want to up my skill when it comes to off-spin. Just trying to up-skill every day. Knowing about her call-up to the Proteas squad was as unscripted as anything else in Kaylas story. She was in the middle of an afternoon nap when her phone rang from an unknown number it was of head coach Mandla Mashimbayi. I was a bit like a deurmekaar - that's an Afrikaans saying, means all over the place. I answered the phone and it was Coach Mandla, who just told me I was part of the Pakistan series. Even before that, we'd had a high-performance camp and I was prepping for the domestic season. I was really zoning in especially with my batting and then just like that, a phone call, and things changed ridiculously. On the cusp of her T20 World Cup debut, where she and Nadine de Klerk will handle finishing duties, Kayla is still catching up with the speed of how her life has reshaped in 2026. Crazy, actually. It's crazy how things can change in a couple of months. I always say that. So I'm just trying to ride this wave as much as possible and enjoy every moment and really just let it sink in. If you asked me a year ago how I would be sitting here, I would have told you you'd be lying to me. The Proteas environment is built precisely on the values Kayla had already instilled in herself - hard work without noise, and purpose without panic. Playing with the people that I've looked up to since I was very young - you never fully know what's going on in the squad when you're not there. Getting to know Chloe, Sune, Kappie - sharing a dressing room with them is amazing. You can joke around and all that. But when it comes to work, they are really hardworking people. When you're not doing something on a day, you feel really bad. Everybody wants to work as hard as the person next to them. That's what really motivates me. But I've also been having a lot of fun even off the cricket field - going for coffee runs, a bit of banter. Really just enjoying it, she said. The returning Dane van Niekerk and Shabnim Ismail, who stepped back from international cricket in 2023, have added yet another dimension to a group that feels close to its best. They're both really hardworking people. Turning up and zoning in on how their work needs to be done - that motivates me to always give my best. Having them back in the space is really amazing. To play and hopefully take the field with them is something I've dreamt of. Even off the cricket field, they're lovely people. Really good to have them back, added Kayla. England is unfamiliar territory, so is a 12-team Womens T20 World Cup. Yet Kaylas mantra for it is delight, not caution. Man, oh my word - cricket is our job, but if you think about it, it's really a fun job that we have. Not a lot of people can say that. Yes, we do a job we love, but we also get to see the world - that's crazy. We can have a lot of banter in between, but when it comes to work, we work and there's nothing wrong with that. It's my first time in the UK. It's such a privilege to be here. It's my first World Cup also. So it's crazy to think about. Her parents are not in England to see her in action, but after long days and big matches, Kayla chats with them every single day. Unfortunately not. Hopefully, in the future, but I would have loved to have them here. They've been my support system throughout the years for very long. Always having them on my side, it's really special. After having a long day, a training or a match, they are my go-to people that I can just jump on a call and say, Hello, mum, hello, dad. This is what happened and etc. They are my go-to people and I'll be forever grateful for that. Her parents are not in England to see her in action, but after long days and big matches, Kayla chats with them every single day. Unfortunately not. Hopefully, in the future, but I would have loved to have them here. They've been my support system throughout the years for very long. Also Read: Live Cricket Score As she steps onto the big stage, Kayla Reyneke carries both the unknown factor and an innate calmness under fire - a combination that could unsettle opponents in this tournament. South Africa are banking on that if they are to finally cross the line and lift that elusive silverware. Article Source: IANS
Gurnoor's Bounce, Ishan's Versatility Fit India's 2027 World Cup Plans: Irfan Pathan
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan believes the selectors have already started planning for the Men's Cricket World Cup 2027 in South Africa, with the inclusion of players capable of thriving in conditions that offer pace, bounce and movement. Speaking ahead of India's first ODI against Afghanistan, Pathan said the selection of tall left-arm pacer Gurnoor Brar reflects the team's long-term vision for the World Cup in South Africa. Gurnoor Brar has been selected because the Indian management wants a bowler who can exploit the pace and bounce expected on South African pitches in the 2027 World Cup, Pathan told Jio Hotstar. Standing at 6 feet 5 inches, he gets natural extra bounce. That will be a big advantage in those conditions, he added. Pathan also highlighted the importance of having batters who can counter steep bounce and identified Ishan Kishan as a valuable multi-dimensional option in the ODI setup. Along with good bowlers, you also need batters who can handle bounce. Ishan Kishan fits that role perfectly. He plays the short ball well, scores square of the wicket, and can serve as a backup opener, a backup at number three behind Virat, and a backup wicketkeeper, he said. The former India all-rounder added that the team management must focus on developing fast-bowling all-rounders, whom he believes will play a decisive role in South African conditions. I will be watching how many all-rounders get opportunities because fast-bowling all-rounders will be crucial in South Africa. Hence, I want to see Nitish Kumar Reddy get chances, Pathan said He also backed Shivam Dube to be given an extended run in the ODI format after impressing in T20 internationals. Shivam Dube has done well in T20Is, and now is the time to bring him into ODIs as well. They need as many opportunities as possible in the lead-up to the World Cup, he added. On Rishabh Pant, Pathan urged selectors not to shut the door on the dynamic left-hander despite his recent struggles in white-ball cricket. My suggestion to the selectors is not to completely ignore him. Yes, he has fallen behind in white-ball cricket. His form has not been great. But look at Ishan Kishan. He was out of the team too, but he used that as motivation, Pathan said. On Rishabh Pant, Pathan urged selectors not to shut the door on the dynamic left-hander despite his recent struggles in white-ball cricket. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With less than two years remaining for the 2027 World Cup, India will aim to test their squad depth and options in the Afghanistan series, which will commence on Saturday. Article Source: IANS
From Kulcha Stall To Team India: Jalandhars Arjun Rajput Earns India U-19 Call-up For Sri Lanka Tour
Harbhajan Singh Cricket Academy: A dream nurtured in the narrow lanes of Ram Nagar and backed by years of sacrifice has finally come true for young cricketer Arjun Rajput, who has been selected in the Indian Under-19 squad for next months tour of Sri Lanka. The left-handed batter and right-arm off-spinner will don the India jersey for the first time when the team departs for Sri Lanka on July 4, marking a major milestone in a journey defined by perseverance and hard work. Arjun comes from a modest family background. His father, Hoti Ram, earns a living by making kulchas and working at a bakery, ensuring that his son could continue pursuing cricket despite financial constraints Speaking after the announcement of the squad, Arjun expressed his pride at getting the opportunity to represent the country. I am very happy and proud to be at this level. I am very happy that we are playing our first match in Sri Lanka. I am very proud of it. We will represent our country, and we will try our best to win all the matches and perform well, he told reporters. The youngster credited his family and mentors for helping him stay focused through difficult times. My father, mother and brother always supported me. Whenever I used to feel down, they backed me and motivated me. My coaches like Vikram Sidhu and Harbhajan Academy supported me a lot, Arjun said. For Hoti Ram, the selection is the reward for years of belief in his sons talent. I have been making kulchas for many years. Arjun has been playing cricket since the age of five years. He is very talented and hardworking. I came to know about the selection in the morning, and it is a very good feeling, he said. His dream has been fulfilled, and it is a very special moment for us, he added. Arjun began his cricketing journey at the Harbhajan Singh Cricket Academy, where he honed his skills during his formative years. Even after facing several challenges, he continued to progress under the guidance of coach Vikram Sidhu. His dream has been fulfilled, and it is a very special moment for us, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The white-ball leg of the tour kicks off on July 4 in Hambantota, which will host all three one-day matches. Following the limited-overs series, the team will transition to red-ball cricket for two multi-day matches. The first multi-day game is slated to be played in Galle from July 13 to 16, while the final fixture of the tour will take place in Colombo from July 20 to 23. Article Source: IANS
'India Will Need Rohit And Virat's Qualities To Win The World Cup': Irfan Pathan
ODI World Cup: Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has underlined the importance of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli ahead of India's first ODI against Afghanistan, saying the experienced duo will be central to the team's chances in the upcoming ODI World Cup in South Africa. Pathan praised Rohit's ability to counter fast bowling in challenging overseas conditions and described Virat as the ideal batter to anchor India's innings from the No.3 position. Rohit Sharma's biggest strength is his ability to handle short-pitched bowling. He has exceptional timing and gets into position early. In South Africa, where bowlers get both swing and extra bounce, Rohit is the ideal batter to punish anything short, Pathan told Jio Hotstar The former left-arm pacer also highlighted Kohli's unmatched consistency in the 50-over format and his ability to guide the innings under pressure. Coming to Virat Kohli, he brings immense experience to the middle order. In ODIs, no one does it better than him. Batting at number three, his records speak for themselves. If India lose an early wicket, he is the man to rebuild the innings, he said. He loves batting long, and when it comes to chasing, he is the best in the world. India will need both these qualities of Rohit and Virat if they are to win the World Cup in South Africa, he added. Pathan also weighed in on India's wicketkeeping options, backing KL Rahul as the team's first-choice wicketkeeper-batter in ODIs. KL Rahul is India's first-choice wicketkeeper-batsman in ODIs. He has done well at numbers five and six. He is versatile, Pathan said. He added that Ishan Kishan's inclusion as a backup wicketkeeper was a sensible move due to his ability to bat higher up the order and handle pace effectively. As a backup, the selectors have brought in Ishan Kishan. Ishan can bat higher up the order and plays the short ball well square of the wicket. That is a smart selection. Pathan further stated that Sanju Samson remains a strong contender for opportunities in the middle order As a backup, the selectors have brought in Ishan Kishan. Ishan can bat higher up the order and plays the short ball well square of the wicket. That is a smart selection. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Meanwhile, India will shift their focus from Tests to ODIs as they start a three-match ODI series against Afghanistan at HPCA in Dharamshala on Saturday. Article Source: IANS
Devonshire, Patel and Sharp earn NZ central contracts for 2026-27
The trio have replaced Bates, Down and Tahuhu on the contract list, with Devine also absent from the group
Maybe Virender Sehwag: South African pace great Dale Steyn believes the fearless brand of cricket displayed by today's young stars is not merely a product of talent, but the result of a significant cultural shift in how the game is coached, analysed and discussed. Speaking about the emergence of attacking young batters such as Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Dewald Brevis and Tristan Stubbs, Steyn said modern cricketers are benefiting from an environment that is far more accepting of failure than previous generations experienced. Were seeing a good combination of current coaches who are ex-players of the current game, are more understanding of failure. And in 2020, there's a lot of failure. You know, you fail way more than you succeed. And every now and then you have one or two seasons where you blow the lights out and you do extremely well, Steyn told IANS in an interaction facilitated by SA20 in the lead-up to Season 5. According to Steyn, one of the biggest changes has been the willingness of coaches and commentators to embrace the game's evolution rather than criticise players for taking risks. And we're not sitting as commentators or as coaches sitting there saying, oh, we want to see the economy rates of bowlers coming down because the game is evolving. And I think that's what commentators and coaches of yesteryear would have done, you know. That has allowed a fearless brand of cricket. Because a player is now not scared that if he plays a bad shot, he's going to be abused on TV. Or he's going to have a coach say to him, that was a bad shot. Whereas maybe, call it 10 years ago, that may have been the case, he opined. Steyn said this shift in mindset has created the freedom for young players to express themselves without fear of criticism We just understand that that's the way that the game is evolving. And I think that is, again, that relationship between coaches, between commentators, between cricket pundits and the player has given players the freedom to express themselves and play the way that they want to play. It's an open playing field right now, he said. The former fast bowler pointed to teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi as an example of the confidence modern players now possess. That's why we see guys like Sooryavanshi walking out there and first ball hitting it for six. If you cast your mind back 10 or 15 years ago, there weren't many players that would do that. There was a handful of players that would do that. Sanath Jayasuriya may have been somebody that would do that as an opening batter? Maybe Virender Sehwag. But, you know, they were a novelty, he mentioned. Steyn believes young players are no longer judged as harshly for failing while playing aggressively, which has encouraged innovation across the game. It wasn't an outlier. It wasn't something that happened on a day-to-day basis. And if they did fail, they would say, oh, that's the way that they play. But if a new player tried that, they would be abused. We don't do that anymore, he added. The changing mindset is not limited to batters. Steyn explained that bowlers, too, have become more accepting of risk in pursuit of wickets rather than merely trying to contain runs. I think that relationship has really allowed a lot of players the freedom to breathe. They can just go, oh, okay, cool. I can go out there and do that. And that's from a batting point of view. From a bowling point of view, bowlers are not scared of going for 20 runs an over or 15 runs an over. They are trying to take wickets. They are trying to break the game open. That is their main goal. If you go for 15 runs and over, take a wicket. And that's cool. You know, there used to be a chain of thought that, oh, if I'm going at 10 and over, I'm getting smashed. No. If you're bowling four overs for 40, you've done well. You've done incredibly well. Maybe try and pick up a couple wickets to really break the game open. But you're doing incredibly well, he expressed. While discussing modern batting, Steyn also reserved special praise for Virat Kohli, citing the Indian star's longevity and relentless desire to improve. Look, both. Let's just hop on the latter right now, which is Virat Kohli. I think his ability to sustain, his mental approach to the game, stay fresh, and stay wanting to continue to perform says a lot about him. He's got a lot of self-drive, which is something that I think all of us cricketers had in my era. That's the only thing that we had. We just wanted to get better every single year, he stated. For Steyn, the evolution of cricket's language, analysis and mindset has created an environment where players can push boundaries without fear, helping take the sport to new heights. Look, both. Let's just hop on the latter right now, which is Virat Kohli. I think his ability to sustain, his mental approach to the game, stay fresh, and stay wanting to continue to perform says a lot about him. He's got a lot of self-drive, which is something that I think all of us cricketers had in my era. That's the only thing that we had. We just wanted to get better every single year, he stated. Also Read: Live Cricket Score And that allows players, I think, to perform to the best of their ability and take the game to new heights. And that's making the game more exciting. That's making the game worthy of watching it, whether it be on your couch at home or going to the ground to go and watch it. So everyone's working together to see this game go and elevate to another level. I think we're all on the right path right now, Steyn concluded. Article Source: IANS
Good To Know Ive Helped Modern-day Pacers Get South Africa To A Wonderful Place: Dale Steyn
Sunrisers Eastern Cape: South African pace great Dale Steyn believes one of the most rewarding aspects of his post-playing career has been watching the next generation of fast bowlers flourish on the international stage, with players such as Marco Jansen and Ottniel Baartman carrying forward many of the principles that defined his own success. Having transitioned into coaching roles after retirement, including a stint as bowling coach of Sunrisers Eastern Cape in the SA20, Steyn said seeing bowlers he has worked with rise through the ranks has been particularly satisfying. For me, the pleasure is having trained and worked with two guys that are right up there in terms of the highest wicket-takers, in Marco Jansen and Ottniel Baartman, and watched their rise in South African colours. They've gone on to play in leagues around the world. They've played in World Cup finals in Barbados and World Cup semifinals, Steyn told IANS in an interaction facilitated by SA20 in the lead-up to Season 5. Reflecting on their growth and success, Steyn admitted it gives him a sense of pride to know he has played a role in their development. So that's a good thing for me to know, that I've helped them somewhat get South Africa to a wonderful place and get them recognised around the world, he stated. Steyn explained that while he shares his experiences and methods with young bowlers, his coaching philosophy is built around helping players develop their own identities rather than simply replicating what he achieved in his playing days. I was bowling coach of the Sunrisers Eastern Cape. And a lot of my coaching philosophy was obviously saying what I would do but then still allowing the players enough room to bring their personal side into it. Because, look, I'm not the one that's on the field anymore, he mentioned. The former fast bowler believes that despite cricket's evolution, the fundamentals that made him successful continue to be effective in the modern game. He pointed to several current South African quicks who have thrived by focusing on execution rather than relying solely on variations. If I was playing, I still think that I'd look at somebody like KG (Kagiso) Rabada. I'd look at somebody like Marco Jansen, Anrich Nortje. These are bowlers that do really, really well in the SA20. And I lined myself up with guys that I'd do a very similar thing with, the 42-year-old stated. Steyn noted that his own approach was relatively uncomplicated, centred on consistency and control as he said, I didn't have a great variety of variations. I had one or two different slower balls. I had a good yorker. I had a good bouncer. And I landed the ball in the right area for the most period of time. According to Steyn, Jansen and Baartman are among the bowlers who best embody that philosophy in contemporary cricket. And Marco Jansen has epitomised that throughout the SA20, which is why he's one of the leading wicket-takers, as is somebody like Ottniel Baartman. So I wouldn't have strayed far away from what they do because that's what I did. And I've coached them to do the same kind of thing, he opined. According to Steyn, Jansen and Baartman are among the bowlers who best embody that philosophy in contemporary cricket. Also Read: Live Cricket Score When asked if a young Dale Steyn would thrive in today's game as he did in his prime or would he need to adapt to the demands of modern cricket, the pace legend said, No, I would have been fine. I would have done fine. If I played the modern-day game, I would have done okay. Article Source: IANS
T20 World Cup: Former Indian wicketkeeper batter Dinesh Karthik believes that the opening combination of Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma could prove to be one of the teams biggest weapons at the ICC Womens T20 World Cup 2026, which will commence on Friday. With the tournament set to begin later this month, Karthik believes Indias ability to put opposition teams under pressure from the very first ball makes them a dangerous side in the shortest format. Indias biggest strength is that they can put teams under pressure from ball one. Smriti brings stability, Shafali brings explosiveness, and when those two get going together, they can take a game away in the Powerplay itself, Karthik told Jio Hotstar. The former India cricketer credited the opening duo for playing a key role in Indias success in white-ball cricket over recent years, particularly in the T20 format. Their partnership has been vital and a massive reason for Indias performance in limited-overs cricket in recent times, more importantly in T20 cricket and going into a T20 World Cup, thats a massive advantage to have, he added. Former New Zealand fast bowler Simon Doull also identified Indias batting depth as a major factor behind their hopes of lifting the trophy. Doull pointed to the flexibility of Indias top order and the impact of wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh in the middle and death overs. What makes this Indian batting unit dangerous is that the top four can set the platform in different ways, depending on the conditions and the situation. If the top four are able to set the game up, then you have a player like Richa coming in when bowlers are already under pressure, and shes one of the few players in the world who can turn a game on its head, Doull said. He further highlighted Richas match-winning contributions during Indias recent ICC Womens ODI World Cup triumph. Thats the kind of finishing power that wins World Cups. Once again going back to their ODI World Cup win, whether it was the South Africa game or the semi-final against Australia, the impetus Richa provided set her team up in a number of games, he added. He further highlighted Richas match-winning contributions during Indias recent ICC Womens ODI World Cup triumph. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India has never won the Women's T20 WC, and they will begin their campaign on June 14 against Pakistan at Birmingham. Article Source: IANS
'Huge loss': Renowned Indian pistol shooter and coach Jaspal Rana passes away at 49
Rana was awarded the Arjuna Award in 1994 and the Padma Shri in 1997 for his contributions to Indian shooting. Recognised for his excellence in coaching, Rana received the Dronacharya Award in 2020, India's highest honour for sports coaching.
FIFA WC: When And Where To Watch USA Vs Paraguay, Know All Details
FIFA World Cup: Co-hosts USA usher in the second World Cup on home soil with their Group D opener against Paraguay on Saturday (IST). The two sides are familiar foes, with Mauricio Pochettino's men securing a 2-1 victory in Chester, Pennsylvania, in November. Paraguay, who are making their first World Cup appearance since South Africa 2010, qualified for the global finals with a sixth-place finish in CONMEBOL qualifying, with some eye-catching victories on the way. History was made when the USA and Paraguay locked horns at the inaugural global showpiece in 1930, the sole occasion the two sides have met in the global finals. How to watch USA vs Paraguay live in India Live streaming and live telecast of the FIFA World Cup 2026 football matches will be available on the Zee5 platform and app in India. Subscription will be needed. Live telecast of the FIFA World Cup 2026 will be available on the Unite8 Sports 1, Unite8 Sports 1 HD, Unite8 Sports 2, and Unite8 Sports 2 HD TV channels in India. Key details Date and kick-off time: Friday, June 12, 6:30 AM (IST). Venue: Los Angeles Stadium (LA) Referee: Danny Desmond Makkelie Squads USA Goalkeepers: Chris Brady, Matt Freese, Matt Turner Defenders: Max Arfsten, Sergio Dest, Alex Freeman, Mark McKenzie, Tim Ream, Chris Richards, Antonee Robinson, Miles Robinson, Joe Scally, Auston Trusty Midfielders: Tyler Adams, Sebastian Berhalter, Weston McKennie, Gio Reyna, Cristian Roldan, Malik Tillman Forwards: Brenden Aaronson, Folarin Balogun, Ricardo Pepi, Christian Pulisic, Tim Weah, Haji Wright, Alex Zendejas Paraguay Goalkeepers: Gatito Fernandez, Orlando Gill, Gaston Olveira Defenders: Gustavo Gomez, Junior Alonso, Fabian Balbuena, Omar Alderete, Juan Jose Caceres, Gustavo Velazquez, Jose Canale, Alexandro Maidana Goalkeepers: Gatito Fernandez, Orlando Gill, Gaston Olveira Also Read: Live Cricket Score Forwards: Antonio Sanabria, Julio Enciso, Gabriel Avalos, Axl Arce, Isidro Pitta, Gustavo Caballero Article Source: IANS
Jaspal Rana: The Fearless Marksman Who Always Aimed For Excellence
During Manu Bhaker: His motto was simple: hit the 10-ring, stay focused, and win medals. That philosophy defined the life and career of Jaspal Rana, one of Indias greatest shooters and most influential mentors, who passed away on Friday, leaving the shooting fraternity in mourning. For Indian shooting, Rana was much more than a champion athlete. He was a mentor, a teacher, a reformer and a fearless voice who never hesitated to speak his mind for the betterment of the sport. Whether it was guiding young shooters, questioning administrative decisions or explaining the finer points of the game, Rana approached everything with the same intensity and honesty that made him a legend on the range. Every shooting enthusiast knew Jaspal Rana. In recent years, he became widely recognised as one of the key figures behind the success of Indian shooter Manu Bhaker, whose Olympic medal-winning performances brought glory to the country. His contribution to nurturing talent and building a winning culture ensured that his influence extended far beyond his own competitive achievements. Those who watched Rana closely during the Paris Olympics witnessed the qualities that defined him as a coach. During Manu Bhakers event, he stood quietly behind the firing line, notebook in hand, observing every shot with complete concentration. Even in one of the biggest moments of Indian shooting, the seriousness on his face revealed a coach focused not on the occasion but on performance. When IANS asked him how he viewed Manus display, his response was characteristically brief: Can do much better. There was no room for complacency, even after a strong performance. Later, when Manu secured her historic bronze medal and journalists approached him for a reaction, Rana once again turned the spotlight away from himself. Speak to Manu, she earned this day, he said before walking away. In those few words lay the essence of Jaspal Rana, demanding excellence from his athletes while never seeking credit for their success. Rana was also known for his willingness to call out shortcomings whenever he saw them. He believed that problems should be addressed openly, regardless of who was responsible. Even when it involved top officials of the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI), he never shied away from expressing his views. For him, silence was never an option when the future of Indian shooting was at stake. Ahead of the Paris Olympics, IANS had the opportunity to speak to Rana in an interview that later went viral. The reason was simple: he spoke with conviction about what India needed to do to consistently win medals in shooting and the changes required to strengthen the system. There was no diplomacy, no hesitation only an unwavering desire to see Indian shooters succeed on the biggest stage. The spirit of kuch kar dikhane ka jazba was always visible in him. As a shooter, he pursued excellence relentlessly. As a coach, he pushed athletes to unlock their potential. As a mentor, he inspired confidence. And as a stakeholder in Indian shooting, he demanded accountability and higher standards. Beyond the range, Rana shared a special bond with journalists covering the sport. He was always willing to explain complex rules, scoring formats and evolving points systems, helping reporters better understand and communicate the nuances of shooting to the public. His accessibility and knowledge made him a trusted source and a valued friend of the media. His passing leaves a void that will be difficult to fill. Indian shooting has lost one of its finest ambassadors, athletes have lost a mentor, and sports journalism has lost a knowledgeable guide. But Jaspal Ranas legacy will live on, in the champions he helped create, in the medals won by shooters he inspired, and in the fearless honesty with which he served the sport. His passing leaves a void that will be difficult to fill. Indian shooting has lost one of its finest ambassadors, athletes have lost a mentor, and sports journalism has lost a knowledgeable guide. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The Paris Olympics anecdote fits naturally in the middle of the story because it shows, rather than tells, the values that defined Jaspal Rana throughout his life: relentless pursuit of improvement, attention to detail, and an unwillingness to take credit away from his athletes. Article Source: IANS
Holder, Joseph set up victory as West Indies go 1-0 up
Sri Lanka scored just 147 but gave WI a scare, before Hope's 65* led the chase
Ankushs Fastest Ton Helps Chambal Ghariyals Pull Off Record Chase In Madhya Pradesh League
Aditya Birla Group Madhya Pradesh: Fans at the Holkar Stadium were treated to a batting extravaganza as Gwalior Cheetahs and Chambal Ghariyals combined for more than 500 runs in a breathtaking contest in the Aditya Birla Group Madhya Pradesh League (MPL) T20 Scindia Cup 2026. The Chambal Ghariyals completed a record chase of 258 runs by three wickets. Batting first, it was absolute carnage from the Gwalior Cheetahs batters as they piled up a mammoth 257/6 in 20 overs against Chambal Ghariyals after being put in to bat. Kartik Parihar and Parth Chaudhary got the innings underway with a 27-run opening stand before Parihar departed for 6 off 7 balls. Chaudhary, however, continued his attacking approach and, along with Saumy Pandey, added another 24 runs for the second wicket before Pandey was dismissed for 10 off 7. The Cheetahs' momentum never slowed as Chaudhary found another able partner in Kuldeep Gehi. The duo stitched together a blistering 71-run partnership for the third wicket, taking the attack to the bowlers. Chaudhary eventually fell for a brilliant 73 off 38 balls, an innings featuring six sixes and six fours. Gehi then received support from captain Rajat Patidar, and the pair took the innings to another level. The duo added 75 runs for the fourth wicket, with Gehi doing most of the damage. The explosive batter eventually smashed 88 off just 42 deliveries, an innings laced with nine sixes and four boundaries. During his knock, Gehi also plundered 34 runs in a single over. Patidar ensured the fireworks continued at the other end. The skipper unleashed a late assault on the bowlers, while the Cheetahs collected 30 runs in one over from Avesh Khan, further boosting their total. Patidar remained aggressive till the end, scoring 46 off just 16 balls, while Mangesh Yadav provided the finishing flourish with a quickfire 21 off 8 deliveries. The entertainment didnt stop there as Ankush Singh came out with attacking intent during the chase for Chambal Ghariyals. Captain Shubham Sharma was dismissed for a first-ball duck, but Ankush showed no signs of caution and launched a breathtaking counterattack. The opener went all guns blazing and registered the fastest century in MPL history, eventually smashing 101 off just 33 balls. His sensational knock featured 11 sixes and six fours, keeping the Ghariyals firmly in the contest. However, Ankushs dismissal triggered a collapse, with Chambal slipping to 155/6 in 11.2 overs after losing wickets in quick succession. Just when the chase appeared to be slipping away, Rohit Kumar Gupta and Aman Bhadoriya joined hands to provide much-needed resistance and keep the hopes alive. Bhadoriya was at 30* off 14 when the equation was down to 56 needed in the final five overs. With the start of the 16th over, Saumy Pandey came under heavy attack, conceding three sixes in the over and leaking 21 runs. The 17th over also began with a boundary, and it seemed as though the match was slipping away from the Gwalior Cheetahs. However, Ishan Afridi produced a crucial breakthrough, dismissing Rohit Kumar Gupta for a quickfire 22 off 15 balls just when the Ghariyals were building momentum. At the end of the 17th over, Chambal needed 25 runs from 18 deliveries, with Aman Bhadoriya firmly set at the crease after bringing up his half-century. But Anubhav Agarwal delivered a brilliant over under pressure, conceding just six runs and tightening the screws on the batting side. However, Ishan Afridi produced a crucial breakthrough, dismissing Rohit Kumar Gupta for a quickfire 22 off 15 balls just when the Ghariyals were building momentum. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Reflecting on his knock and the win, Ankush said, It feels great to contribute to such a memorable win. We knew the target was huge, but the wicket was very good for batting and we believed we could chase it down. There was never any thought of pressure. We simply focused on playing our natural game and taking the attack to the bowlers. Article Source: IANS
Devonshire, Patel and Sharp earn New Zealand central contracts for 2026-27 season
The trio have replaced Bates, Down and Tahuhu on the contract list with Devine also absent from the group
Sri Lanka opt to bat against West Indies at dry Sabina Park
There was some drizzle around at the toss and there is rain forecast for later in the evening
Sciver-Brunt: 'Pressure is a privilege' for England's World Cup homecoming
England captain acknowledges success of rugby and football counterparts as hosts prepare for Sri Lanka challenge
Jharkhand T20 League: Chota Nagpur Royals And Ranchi Titans Emerge Victorious On Day 2
Jharkhand T20 Cricket League: Chota Nagpur Royals and Ranchi Titans secured decisive victories on the second day of the Jharkhand T20 Cricket League 2026 at the JSCA International Stadium Complex in Ranchi on Thursday. The Royals claimed a dominant 10-wicket win via the DLS method in a rain-curtailed opener, while the Titans defended a massive total to win by 42 runs. In a rain-interrupted first match of the day, Dhanbad Diamonds posted 63/2 in 7 overs before heavy showers halted the play. Aryaman Sen anchored the innings with an unbeaten 31* off 20 balls, supported by Aditya Singhs 24* off 16 balls. For the Royals, Ritwik M Pathak (1/12) and Suprieyo Chakraborty (1/16) picked up a wicket each. Following the delay, the Chota Nagpur Royals were set a revised DLS target of 65 runs in 5 overs. Openers Virat Singh (38* off 15 balls) and MD Nazim Siddiqui (23* off 11 balls) chased down the target effortlessly, reaching 65/0 in just 4.2 overs to seal a comprehensive 10-wicket victory. Virat Singh was awarded the player of the match. In the second match of the day, Ranchi Titans were put into bat and posted a formidable 227/5. Openers Shikhar Mohan and Aryan Hudda gave the team a blistering start, putting on 93 runs in 7.4 overs before Aryan Hudda fell for 40 off 16 balls. Player of the match, Shikhar Mohan, top-scored with a brilliant 90 off 48 balls, while Shrestha contributed a rapid 57 off 31 balls. Skipper Rajandeep Singh added a late cameo of 21 off 12 balls. Following the delay, the Chota Nagpur Royals were set a revised DLS target of 65 runs in 5 overs. Openers Virat Singh (38* off 15 balls) and MD Nazim Siddiqui (23* off 11 balls) chased down the target effortlessly, reaching 65/0 in just 4.2 overs to seal a comprehensive 10-wicket victory. Virat Singh was awarded the player of the match. Also Read: Live Cricket Score For Ranchi Titans, Prince Anurag Murmu led the bowling attack with impressive figures of 3/26, helping his team secure a 42-run victory in the match. Article Source: IANS
Aakash Tigers Mumbai Western Suburbs: Defending champions MSC Maratha Royals stormed into the final of the T20 Mumbai League 2026 with a three-wicket victory over North Mumbai Panthers in the second semifinal at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Thursday. Tushar Deshpande starred with the ball, returning impressive figures of 4/21 to help bundle out the Ajinkya Rahane-led Panthers for 148 in their allotted 20 overs. In reply, the Maratha Royals chased down the target with composure, thanks to a match-winning, unbeaten knock of 62 off 49 balls from Chinmay Sutar. Holding his nerve in the thrilling chase, Sutar guided the defending champions into their second successive final. MSC Maratha Royals will now take on Arcs Andheri in the title clash on Saturday, starting at 7 PM. Earlier in the day, skipper Shivam Dube led from the front with a match-winning unbeaten knock as Arcs Andheri stormed into the final with a five-wicket victory over Aakash Tigers Mumbai Western Suburbs in the first semi-final at the same venue. After producing a disciplined bowling display to restrict the Tigers to 150/7, Andheri overcame a few hiccups in the chase before Dube's late fireworks guided them home with nine balls to spare. Chasing 151, Andheri suffered an early setback when Musheer Khan was dismissed for a duck with just one run on the board. Opener Divyaansh Sksena and Arjun Tendulkar then steadied the innings with a 41-run partnership for the second wicket. However, Shams Mulani struck twice to swing the momentum back in favour of the Tigers, first removing Tendulkar (13) before dismissing the well-set Sksena for a brisk 34 off 16 balls, an innings featuring six fours and a six. Prasad Pawar (26) and Pragnesh Kanpillewar (18) attempted to rebuild the chase with a valuable 40-run stand for the fourth wicket. Just as Andheri looked to be taking control, Ajit Yadav delivered a crucial double blow in the 13th over, dismissing both batters and reducing Andheri to 92/5. With the chase hanging in the balance, Dube took charge. The Andheri skipper stitched together an unbroken 59-run partnership with Gaurav Jathar (11 not out) and finished unbeaten on 45 off just 26 deliveries, smashing five sixes and a four to seal his side's place in the final. Opting to bat first, Tigers skipper Sarfaraz Khan provided an aggressive start with a 34-run knock off 17 balls, including six fours and a six. Opener Jay Bista added 35 off 33 deliveries, while Harsh Rane (13) and Ajit Yadav (12) chipped in with useful contributions. However, the Tigers struggled to build substantial partnerships in the middle overs, with Saksham Parashar falling for a duck and the rest of the batting order failing to accelerate. For Andheri, Ashutosh Ghagre was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 2/21, while Tendulkar, Dube, Ajay Mishra, Musheer, and Prasun Singh claimed a wicket apiece. Brief scores: For Andheri, Ashutosh Ghagre was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 2/21, while Tendulkar, Dube, Ajay Mishra, Musheer, and Prasun Singh claimed a wicket apiece. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Semifinal 1: Aakash Tigers MWS 150/7 in 20 overs (Jay Bista 35, Sarfaraz Khan 34; Ashutosh Ghagre 2/21) lost to Arcs Andheri 151/5 in 18.3 overs (Shivam Dube 45 not out, Divyaansh Sksena 34; Ajit Yadav 2/23, Shams Mulani 2/23) by 5 wickets. Article Source: IANS
Mehidy taken to hospital after being hit on the head by bouncer
Mehidy had a concussion, the team physio said, and will remain in hospital for 24 hours
Bengal T20 League: Karan Lal Slams 64-ball 145, Hits 14 Sixes, Bags Two Wickets To Script History
Bengal T20 League Season: History was scripted in the Bengal T20 League Season 3 at Eden Gardens on Thursday as Karan Lal produced a sensational all-round performance, smashing 145 off just 64 deliveries, including 14 sixes and seven fours, to power Servotech Siliguri Strikers to a commanding 73-run victory over Adamas Howrah Warriors. Karans remarkable innings became only the second century in the history of the league, following Gaurav Chauhans 103 off 55 balls in Season 2. His explosive knock formed the backbone of Siliguri Strikers imposing total of 231/2 in 20 overs, while Sudip Chatterjee played an important supporting role with a well-made 58 off 42 deliveries. In reply, Adamas Howrah Warriors never managed to build sustained momentum and were bowled out for 158 in 19.2 overs. Shakir Habib Gandhi top-scored with a brisk 40 off 20 balls but received little support from the rest of the batting order. With the ball, Siliguri continued their dominance as Akhilesh Yadav returned figures of 3/19, Shivamm Bharati claimed 2/21, and Karan capped off a memorable outing by picking up 2/29 to seal a comprehensive victory. En route to his record-breaking innings, Karan wrote several records to his name on Thursday: Highest individual run in Bengal T20 League history- 145 (64) Most sixes in an innings - 14 Most sixes in a season - 22 Most runs in an over - 32 runs (15th over against Writtick Chatterjee). Records by Servotech Siliguri Strikers on Thursday: Most sixes in a teams innings, Siliguri: 16 Highest Team Total- Siliguri- 231/2 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 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. Men's matches are held at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, with women's matches at the JU Salt Lake Campus, Kolkata. Brief scores: Servotech Siliguri Strikers vs Adamas Howrah Warriors Servotech Siliguri Strikers: 231/2 (20 overs) Servotech Siliguri Strikers vs Adamas Howrah Warriors Also Read: Live Cricket Score Result: Servotech Siliguri Strikers won by 73 runs Article Source: IANS
Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20: Rahul Dravid Unveils Glittering Silverware For Season 5
KSCA Honorary Secretary Santosh Menon: Indian cricket legend and Karnataka icon Rahul Dravid unveiled the trophy for this year's Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 in Bengaluru on Thursday, marking another milestone in the build-up to the fifth edition of Karnataka's premier franchise-based T20 tournament. The trophy unveiling ceremony was attended by KSCA President Venkatesh Prasad, KSCA Honorary Secretary Santosh Menon, Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 Governing Council Chairman M.S. Keshava, KSCA Official Spokesperson Vinay Mruthyunjaya, franchise owners, office bearers, and other distinguished guests of the KSCA. Speaking at the event, Rahul Dravid highlighted the role of the Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 in creating opportunities for emerging cricketers and praised KSCA's efforts in strengthening the state's cricketing pathway. The Maharaja Trophy is a very important tournament. Having myself been involved in the IPL for many years, I know for a fact that it is a tournament that is followed by a lot of IPL teams. There will be scouts who come to the games live, but many of them will watch it on television as well. The scores, statistics, and data from these matches are watched very closely, and it really helps a lot of these players get into the IPL. KSCA President Venkatesh Prasad reflected on the significance of the tournament and its continued contribution to Karnataka cricket. The Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 continues to provide an important platform for young players to showcase their abilities, gain valuable experience, and take significant steps forward in their cricketing careers. We are proud to offer a pathway that inspires the next generation of champions and contributes to the continued growth of cricket across Karnataka. Honorary Secretary, KSCA, Santosh Menon, also mentioned three key changes to the playing conditions for the 2026 edition of the Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20. The tournament will retain the Impact Player rule, with teams required to submit their playing XI before the toss, to emphasise the role of all-rounders. The competition will also adopt a provision whereby runs will not be awarded if a batter is dismissed off a free-hit delivery, rewarding bowlers for delivering a legal wicket-taking ball after a no-ball. In addition, if an on-field dismissal is subsequently overturned and the batter is found to be not out, any runs completed during the play will be restored to both the batter and the batting team. M.S. Keshava, Chairman, Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 Governing Council, also announced that tickets for the Mysuru leg of the tournament will go on sale from 3:00 PM on June 12. The tickets will be available digitally through the District by Zomato platform, with prices ranging from 100 to 250 to ensure the matches remain accessible and affordable for fans. The competition will also adopt a provision whereby runs will not be awarded if a batter is dismissed off a free-hit delivery, rewarding bowlers for delivering a legal wicket-taking ball after a no-ball. In addition, if an on-field dismissal is subsequently overturned and the batter is found to be not out, any runs completed during the play will be restored to both the batter and the batting team. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The tournament will be played across Mysuru, Hubballi, and Bengaluru from June 20 to July 12. Mysuru will host 12 matches from June 20 to 25, before the action shifts to Hubballi for a further 12 matches from June 27 to July 3. Bengaluru will then stage 10 matches from July 5 to 12, including Qualifier 1, the Eliminator, Qualifier 2, and the Final, as the six franchises battle for the coveted title. Article Source: IANS
Rob Key: England Test team is not a 'national embarrassment'
Managing director won't rule out sacking Stokes following incident in Chelsea nightclub
Rob Key on Test captaincy: 'Joe Root is the man that gets England out of a hole'
Managing director says Brook's disciplinary issues ot the main reason why he was overlooked to lead team
Womens T20 WC: Warm-up Games Gave India Exposure, Confidence Ahead Of Starting Campaign, Says Salvi
T20 World Cup: India bowling coach Aavishkar Salvi said the two warm-up matches ahead of the ICC Womens T20 World Cup provided valuable exposure and confidence to the squad ahead of opening their campaign against Pakistan in Birmingham on Sunday. India, the 50-over World Cup winners, had a mixed build-up to the 12-team T20 World Cup. They lost to South Africa 4-1 before losing to England 2-1. In the warm-up games, India outsmarted the West Indies but lost to England. I think these two warm-up games were a good exposure to all of us. We could use this, actually, to express our game plans in the middle. Bowlers could go out there and express their game plans, and batters also. They went inside they tried out their plans. See, whenever we, the Indian team, play any game, the first intention is to win the game. Second intention is to give exposure to almost all the players who we think are going to participate in the World Cup, said Salvi in a video posted on bcci.tv. on Thursday. India are in Group 1, dubbed as Group of Death, alongside six-time winners Australia, South Africa, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and debutant the Netherlands. I think these two games gave us the chance to go out there and express ourselves. In the West Indies game, we won comfortably. We were defending 180 runs, and we defended it successfully. Here also, if you see 170 in a T20 game, we chased down that many when we came as close as getting to 166. It was a good fight back shown by the girls. Each and every segment, whether it was power play or middle overs or slog overs, I thought the bowlers actually operated really well. In the end, we fell short by 5 runs, but still, I thought it was a good fight back shown by the girls. From the individual perspective, I think Shreyanka had a brilliant two games. I mean, in both games, she performed really well. Radha getting those two games and getting her over under her belt, and in the first game itself, she got some wickets at a good economy rate. I thought it was a good confidence booster for us. I think Kranti was brilliant, added Salvi. Elaborating on gains from the batting side of things, Salvi said, From the batting perspective, if you ask me, Bharti was someone who used the West Indies game to the fullest. She got her runs under her belt. Today, if you see Richa, the way she batted was excellent. I mean, she almost got us the game. A lot of positives were there in the last two games. From the individual perspective, I think Shreyanka had a brilliant two games. I mean, in both games, she performed really well. Radha getting those two games and getting her over under her belt, and in the first game itself, she got some wickets at a good economy rate. I thought it was a good confidence booster for us. I think Kranti was brilliant, added Salvi. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Majorly, from the preparation and acclimatisation point of view, the game plans that suit these conditions, you get used to these conditions. I thought that was brilliant. That exposure was brilliant. I think all the girls, I think they are ready for the challenges ahead. Article Source: IANS
No Rush On Deciding Stokes' Future As England Player, Considering Alcohol Ban, Says Rob Key
The Kia Oval: England mens managing director Rob Key said there is no rush to take a call on Ben Stokes future as an England player and remained non-committal about him being the captain, while adding that hes also considering enforcing a complete alcohol ban on the side. Stokes and Gus Atkinson were not made available for selection for the second Test against New Zealand, starting at The Kia Oval next week, after the pair were involved in a nightclub altercation in the early hours of Monday morning following the teams 115-run win in the series opener at Lords and broke a midnight curfew. The confrontation also featured Saracens rugby union player Totoa Auvaa. Can Ben captain again? I think weve just got to let that play out. The decision, as I look forward, is about whats best for the team and whats best for Ben as well. I havent got an answer for that at the moment, to be honest. Its still very raw, certainly for Ben, Brendon (McCullum, head coach), myself, and the ECB. Ben has been through a range of emotions, as you would in this situation. A lot of people have had phone calls (where) youre just in disbelief, then you get angry. Theres a load of things, and Im still not sure Im over those at the moment. Time is probably the best thing for all of us. Nobody wants to make any rash decisions, whether thats on Bens side or the other end. Well take the next step when we get to that, Key told reporters in a press conference on Thursday. Asked specifically on Stokes future as Englands Test captain, Key replied, Im not saying that. At this point in time, it has not crossed my mind to get that far ahead. As far as sacking, or any of that stuff, we havent got anywhere close to being that far in the process. Further talking about contemplating banning alcohol in the national set-up, Key explained, Im trying to give myself a bit of time, but do we need to look and say, have they (the rules) actually been strict enough. Even when they win a game of cricket, is it now a time when theres just no alcohol at any time and at any stage? The players now have to show the public that they can be trusted. At this point, its hard to say they can. Its not just about the protocols; in the conditions of employment, there are several ways youre expected to behave as an England cricketer. We dont want our players out late at night in alcohol-related incidents. I dont think theyve become a national embarrassment. I think that Stokes and McCullum are (one of) the most successful coach and captain partnerships weve had. So I think thats far too strong a word. Its not just about the protocols; in the conditions of employment, there are several ways youre expected to behave as an England cricketer. We dont want our players out late at night in alcohol-related incidents. Also Read: Live Cricket Score We just thought this was too big a job at this stage for Harry to take on. Ultimately, when English crickets in a hole, Joe Root is the man that we ask to dig us out of it. Whether thats on the field or off the field. Were incredibly lucky to have him. And when I spoke to him about whether he would consider this, he didnt hesitate. Article Source: IANS
T20 World Cup: Pakistan womens team mentor Wahab Riaz said the squads recent preparation and youthful energy give him confidence ahead of the ICC Womens T20 World Cup 2026, adding that the Fatima Sana-led side are sure to play fearless cricket and are targeting a top-four finish. The 10th edition of the Womens T20 World Cup, to be staged in England from June 12 to July 5, is set to be the biggest in the tournaments history, with the field expanding to 12 teams. The event will feature 33 matches across seven venues, and Pakistan have been drawn in Group 1 alongside sixtime champions Australia, archrivals India, South Africa, Bangladesh, and debutant Netherlands. We have worked hard over the past few months, playing a series against Zimbabwe and facing Ireland and the West Indies. This is a young and energetic group that can rise to the occasion at the World Cup. You prepare your entire life to play in a World Cup, and it is an opportunity everyone looks forward to. Our focus is on playing a fearless and positive brand of cricket. We need to believe in our hard work, and the results will follow, Wahab said in a PCB statement on Thursday. Seam-bowling all-rounder Fatima will lead Pakistan in a second straight T20 World Cup, after having captained the side at the 2024 edition in the UAE. She enters the tournament in redhot form after smashing the fastest halfcentury in just 15 balls in womens T20Is during Pakistans 30 sweep of Zimbabwe in Karachi last month. Pakistans buildup to the tournament included away T20Is in South Africa, a home series against Zimbabwe, training camps, and a triseries in Ireland featuring the hosts and West Indies from May 28 to June 4. The side also played warmup matches in Derby against Sri Lanka on June 6 and Scotland on June 9, which they lost. Our group has some of the finest sides in the tournament, and this is a good opportunity for us to start on the right track, with things getting easier as the event progresses. We have a combination of youngsters and senior players, and I am confident that, given the hard work these players have put in, if they play to their potential, they will deliver a top-four finish, added Wahab. After opening their campaign against India, Pakistan will stay in Birmingham to meet South Africa on June 17 before travelling to Southampton to face Bangladesh on June 20. They take on Australia at Headingley in Leeds on June 23, with their final group match against the Netherlands scheduled for June 27 in Bristol. Our group has some of the finest sides in the tournament, and this is a good opportunity for us to start on the right track, with things getting easier as the event progresses. We have a combination of youngsters and senior players, and I am confident that, given the hard work these players have put in, if they play to their potential, they will deliver a top-four finish, added Wahab. Also Read: Live Cricket Score A World Cup is a stage where the whole world is watching you. The team has to work hard and believe it can go the distance, and we will give our best with a fighting spirit to perform well in this tournament. Article Source: IANS
Edgbaston takes center stage as England, Sri Lanka kick off T20 World Cup
History is on England's side, as they have won 10 of the last 12 T20Is against Sri Lanka
Liam Livingstone answers Lancashire SOS with return to Championship cricket
Injury crisis brings former England Test player back despite signing a white-ball contract earlier this year
Mir, Shah Knocks Help Afghanistan A Get Four-run Win Over India A Via DLS Method
Despite Priyansh Arya: India As imposing 349 proved to be insufficient as Afghanistan A sealed a dramatic four-run victory via DLS method in a rain-hit 50-over match in the 'A' Teams Tri-series on Thursday, thanks to a blistering opening stand and composed knocks from skipper Imran Mir and Bahir Shah. India A, sent in to bat first on a surface expected to aid seamers, made an assertive start through Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who smashed 44 off 22 balls. His opening burst set the tone before Prabhsimran Singh kept the tempo high with a fluent effort at the top to top-score with 84. Despite Priyansh Aryas early exit, India remained well placed as captain Tilak Varma (66) and vice-captain Ruturaj Gaikwad (66) consolidated with a steady 78-run stand, while keeping the Afghanistan bowlers at bay. India accelerated again in the final overs through Suryansh Shedge, whose 40 off 27 balls injected urgency into the innings. Handy contributions from Anukul Roy and Vipraj Nigam pushed India to 349/9 in a revised 49 overs. Afghanistan As Abdullah Ahmadzai was the standout bowler, claiming five wickets and stopping India A from crossing 360. Chasing a revised target of 294 from 38 overs after multiple rain interruptions, Afghanistan began aggressively. Hassan Eisakhils 34 and his 63-run opening stand with Imran Mir ensured the chase began on a bright note. Though Arshad Khan and Anukul Roy removed Eisakhil and Khalid Taniwal, India A struggled to apply sustained pressure. Mir anchored the reply with a composed 75 not out off 69 balls, while Shah counterattacked to hit 51 not out. Their 108-run century stand for the third wicket pushed Afghanistan A ahead of the DLS par score. With rain returning, Afghanistan A reached 173 for two in 25.5 overs, and persistent showers forced the abandonment, handing Afghanistan A victory under the DLS method. Chasing a revised target of 294 from 38 overs after multiple rain interruptions, Afghanistan began aggressively. Hassan Eisakhils 34 and his 63-run opening stand with Imran Mir ensured the chase began on a bright note. Though Arshad Khan and Anukul Roy removed Eisakhil and Khalid Taniwal, India A struggled to apply sustained pressure. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India A 349/9 in 49 overs (Prabhsimran Singh 84, Ruturaj Gaikwad 66, Tilak Varma 66; Abdullah Ahmadzai 5-68) lost to Afghanistan A 177/2 in 25.5 overs (Imran Mir 75 not out, Bahir Shah 51 not out; Anukul Roy 1-24, Arshad Khan 1-38) by four runs (via DLS method). Article Source: IANS
Womens T20 WC: Fancy India To Win Over Pakistan, Have Jumped At Least A Level Or Two, Says Hussain
T20 World Cup: India will open their 2026 Womens T20 World Cup campaign against Pakistan at Edgbaston on June 14, as one of crickets most-watched rivalries takes centre stage in a global womens tournament. The results, though, have been onesided in recent years. India have won 13 of 16 T20Is against Pakistan, including a sixwicket victory at the 2024 T20 World Cup in Dubai. In Womens T20 World Cup meetings, India lead 62 across eight clashes. All contests have come in global or continental events the Womens T20 World Cup, Asia Cup, Asian Games, and Commonwealth Games with no bilateral series staged in this phase. Edgbastons large South Asian community, with strong Indian and Pakistani representation, is expected to generate intense local interest as both teams begin their campaigns. Nasser Hussain, the former England captain, addressed questions around the big clash as ICC Women's T20 World Cup expert in a JioStar Media Day. Excerpts:- On how Yastika Bhatia has fared as a number three batter so far From recent times, what I have seen recently, I actually think the other way round. Yastika, since I have seen her in England, her strike rate is excellent, she is a real boundary hitter, I quite like her at number 3 after the dynamic Shafali and Smriti Mandhana, and then you have Jemimah and Harmanpreet after, who can steady the ship if you need to, or kick on, and then you have Richa Ghosh to even kick on even more. So I like Yastika at 3, from what I have seen of her in England in particular, she has been smashing it everywhere, she hasn't made that big score, she has been getting like 30 and 20 balls, 30 and 25 deliveries. My only issue is that since her injury and her operation, it was a major operation. She has not been that mobile between the wickets; she has been run out twice in the England bilateral series and then in the field as well. So that is my only concern, especially if she is batting with Jemimah, for example, and Jemimah is very quick between the wickets, you may just have to keep an eye on that. But I quite like her at 3, and I quite like batting depth that everyone then moves down one, and it gives you a long batting line-up. Who has the edge in the India-Pakistan clash? Firstly, there is obviously a great rivalry across any sport between India and Pakistan, but you would say recently in men's and women's cricket, it has not been particularly close, especially in ICC events, and the rivalry has not yet kicked off to the extent that it has in the men's game. But it is still India vs Pakistan, and it is a format that obviously can cause upsets. We have seen in the warm-up games, and even before that, sides like Scotland, Ireland, and the Netherlands are playing some very good cricket. India will be confident but obviously wary that it only takes Fatima Sana to come off, have a good day, and they could be in trouble, but if you are asking me a prediction, India will be too strong. In general, the way Indian women's cricket has grown - 50 over World Cup win, WPL, everything that is happening in women's cricket in India compared to Pakistan cricket, where their players don't play in all the franchise tournaments around the world. So, they have stayed at a level whereas India have jumped at least a level or two if not more. On the importance of six-hitting to win the competition Six hitting is absolutely vital. The women's game has changed from a touch game. So, you think of Meg Lanning, a wonderful touch player who stroked the ball to the boundary. One of the greatest I have ever seen, and now you see the power hitters that are around. They just clear the rope and back themselves to hit sixes. So, whichever team hits the most sixes will probably win the tournament. But also, I always keep an eye on our monitor in the commentary box on the dot ball percentage. There is no point in having five dots and then a six. You are going to run a ball, and that won't win you anything. So, that is another thing that coaches and analysts will keep an eye on. What is the dot ball percentage of that team? So, the combination of those. That is why running between the wickets is very important. That is why I mentioned Jemimah and the way she runs between the wickets. The good balls are going for one, two, and three, and your bad ball is going for four and six. It is very difficult as an opposition captain to control that. So, yes, six-hitting is vital. But you have got to keep an eye on that dot ball percentage. On whether Deepti Sharma is an automatic starter in the playing eleven For me, yes. Going into a big game in a big tournament, I would want Deepti Sharma. You want people to go into battle with you, streetwise people, and Deepti is absolutely that, and I mentioned Smriti Mandhana as well. I saw a question that was relayed to me about what the surprise will be. It's not a surprise, but the two have had quite a few periods recently, and this World Cup has come as a perfect time for them. Its because once you're playing in a World Cup, everything else, no one will remember what happened in the bilaterals. No one will remember what happened in South Africa, Australia, whatever. It will be, how did you go in this World Cup? And certain people raise their game for big tournaments, and Deepti Sharma is absolutely that. She has been out of form since the South Africa series and has gone a long period without getting wickets. Then in the fourth game, she got runs and wickets, and she's done okay against England in the bilaterals. She knows England very well, having played the Hundred here and a lot of games here for India. So she knows the conditions very well. They may not see it differently, but if you're asking me, my opinion is that I would want Deepti Sharma as one of the first names in a big game. Thinking of a knockout semi-final or a final in a big game, I would want Deepti Sharma to be one of them. But look how she went in the 50-over World Cup, and I would want Deepti on my side. On what will be the key factor in deciding the winner of the India-Pakistan clash? Pakistan will have to play above the level they're playing at the moment. They had a good series against Zimbabwe, and their strike rates all went through the roof. But with all respect to Zimbabwe, that attack won't be like the Indian attack. So if Pakistan are just par, and they're par, I'm talking about, then India will be too good. To beat India and some of those sides, and I'm not just talking about Pakistan or the group - I'm talking about England, South Africa, New Zealand, India, Australia. To beat those sides, you have to play above your par. So they cannot play timid cricket. If you get 120 runs, India are just going to knock that off easily. So they have to play fearless cricket, and they have to have the cricketers to be able to do that, and they have to put India under a bit of pressure. Everyone knows they're playing for India. The expectation is there now in that group as well. With India being in a group with South Africa and Australia, this is a must-win game, and you could argue a must-win game, and make sure your net run rate is good as well, with what might come ahead. So if you can suddenly, in the first game, catch India a bit cold and put them under a bit of pressure, then India are thinking, Crikey, we can't lose this one. We've still got to play South Africa and Australia. Then you never know. But as I said right at the start, I fancy India to win. On whether India might have to take an extra batter or bowler to compensate for Amanjot Kaurs absence Personally, I would play the extra batter. I would pack my batting. I would use Shafali - remember in the 50-over World Cup final, Shafali came in. She wasn't even in the original squad, and then there she is, getting runs and wickets. I would use Shafali as my safety valve bowler, as in the women's game, four of the top six, seven bowlers are spinners. England have three spinners in the top six. So spin to win in women's cricket, especially T20 cricket. I would play all my spinners, not all of them, but if you're asking me about the balance, a couple of seamers and all my batting. But if you do that, you have to go hard. If you go back to the 50-over World Cup, India at the start had the same problem. They played the extra batter, but were still being a bit cautious. Personally, I would play the extra batter. I would pack my batting. I would use Shafali - remember in the 50-over World Cup final, Shafali came in. She wasn't even in the original squad, and then there she is, getting runs and wickets. I would use Shafali as my safety valve bowler, as in the women's game, four of the top six, seven bowlers are spinners. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Catch all the action from ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026, June 12-July 5, LIVE on JioHotstar and Star Sports Network. Article Source: IANS
Kira Chathli to captain England A against India
Squads announced for T20 and 50-over series starting later this month
ENGW vs SLW Match 1 , Cricket Tips :The ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 will begin with England Women taking on Sri Lanka Women in the first game. New Zealand women are the defending champions, and there are 11 more participants who will try their luck. The first match will be held at Edgbaston in Birmingham on Friday at 11 PM IST. England Women are one of the top contenders of the tournament, and they will be looking to start well. Every team will play five matches in their group, and only two teams from two groups will qualify for the semis. That is why every match is important. Sri Lanka women did well, winning both warm-up matches. They will be looking to challenge the strong English side and turn things around. ENGW vs SLW: Match Details Date : June 12, 2026 (Friday) Time : 11 PM IST Venue : Edgbaston, Birmingham ENGW vs SLW Live Streaming Details The live action of the Women's T20 World Cup 2026 will be available on Star Sports Networks. Fans can access the live stream on the Jio Hotstar app or website. ENGW vs SLW Head-to-Head in T20Is Total Matches : 12 England Women : 10 Sri Lanka Women : 02 No - Result : 00 ENGW vs SLW: Ground Pitch Report Edgbaston offers a good and balanced wicket. Pacers will get good movement early on, and spinners will get assistance with the old ball. The wicket is expected to settle down as the match goes on. The team that will chase will have an edge. ENGW vs SLW Possible XIs ENGW : Sophia Dunkley, Danni Wyatt-Hodge, Nat Sciver-Brunt (c), Alice Capsey, Heather Knight, Amy Jones (wk), Charlie Dean, Freya Kemp, Sophie Ecclestone, Lauren Bell, Lauren Filer SLW : Chamari Athapaththu (c), Harshitha Samarawickrama, Vishmi Gunaratne, Hasini Perera (wk), Imesha Dulani, Kavisha Dilhari, Nilakshika de Silva, Sugandika Kumari, Malki Madara, Mithali Ayodhya, Nimasha Meepage ENGW vs SLW Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Danny Wyatt-Hodeg and Chamari Athapaththu will have a big role with the bat. These two can play aggressively in the power play and give the team a good start. Probable Best Bowler Lauren Bell is one of the best T20 bowlers in women's cricket and is carrying good form with her. For Sri Lanka, Sugandika Kumari is the experienced bowler who can make an impact here. Today Match Prediction : England Women are very strong in their own conditions and Sri Lanka Women have struggled against England. We predict England to win this game on Friday. ENGW vs SLW Match 1, ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026, Today 2026 Match, ENGW vs SLW 2026 Prediction, ENGW vs SLW Predicted XIs, Injury Update for ENGW vs SLW Match Also Read: Live Cricket Score Disclaimer : The predictions 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.
Zak Crawley takes break from first-class cricket following England axe
Former England opener set to be named as Sunrisers Leeds captain in the Hundred, ahead of Harry Brook
Women's T20 WC: When And Where To Watch ENG Vs SL, Know All Details
T20 World Cup: The wait is finally over, and the Women's T20 World Cup 2026 will commence on Friday with hosts England taking on Sri Lanka in the tournament opener at the Edgbaston Stadium. Among the pre-tournament favourites, England boast a formidable squad packed with international experience and match-winners across all departments. The hosts will rely on the likes of Danni Wyatt-Hodge, Alice Capsey, Amy Jones, Charlotte Dean, and youngster Lauren Bell as they seek to launch their title bid on a positive note. England won the inaugural edition of the tournament but failed to replicate the success in the next eight editions. They exited from the Group Stage in 2024. Sri Lanka, meanwhile, arrive with ambitions of causing an early upset and making a statement on the biggest stage in womens cricket. Skipper Chamari Athapaththu will once again be central to the teams hopes, while Harshitha Samarawickrama and Kaushani Nuthyangana are expected to shoulder key responsibilities. Historically, England have enjoyed the upper hand in meetings between the two sides. The teams have faced each other 12 times in international cricket, with England emerging victorious in 10 encounters, while Sri Lanka have managed two wins. Their rivalry dates back to June 2009, with the most recent clash taking place in September 2023. When: Friday, June 12, 11:00 PM IST Where: Edgbaston Stadium, Birmingham Where to watch: The England vs Sri Lanka match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Squads: Where to watch: The England vs Sri Lanka match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Sri Lanka: Chamari Athapaththu (c), Hasini Perera, Vishmi Gunarathne, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Imesha Dulani, Nilakshika Silva, Kaveesha Dilhari, Hansima Karunarathne, Kaushini Nuthyangana, Sugandika Dassanayaka, Nimasha Madushani, Kawya Kavindi, Malki Madara, Mithali Ayodhya, Chethana Vimukthi. Article Source: IANS
WI vs SL 1st T20I: Preview, Predicted XIs, Player Tips & Match Prediction
WI vs SL 1st T20I, Cricket Tips :Sri Lanka won the three-match ODI series against West Indies 1-0 after the last two ODIs were washed out. These two sides will now face each other in three T20Is. The first game will be held at Sabina Park on Friday at 6 AM IST. West Indies will be playing their first T20I since the T20 World Cup 2026. They did pretty well in that tournament and were unlucky to miss the semifinal berth. Sri Lanka failed to go through the group stage and lost four consecutive matches, despite a good start. This will be a face-off between West Indian batting firepower and Sri Lanka's settled bowling unit. WI vs SL: Match Details Date : June 12, 2026 (Friday) Time : 6:00 AM IST Venue : Sabina Park, Kingston, Jamaica WI vs SL: Live Streaming Details In India, fans can watch the live action of the WI vs SL game on the FanCode mobile app or website. WI vs SL: Head-to-Head in T20Is Total Matches : 18 West Indies : 08 Sri Lanka : 10 No - result : 00 WI vs SL: Ground Pitch Report The wicket in Kingston is on the slower side. The last few days, there has been constant rain, which will slow down the wicket a little more. Hence, the toss will be crucial here. The team that bowls first will have a better bowling conditions. WI vs SL: Possible XIs West Indies : Brandon King, Shai Hope (c & wk), Rovman Powell, Shimron Hetmyer, Sherfane Rutherford, Roston Chase, Romario Shepherd, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Matthew Forde, Alzarri Joseph Sri Lanka : Kusal Mendis (c & wk), Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kamindu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Pavan Rathnayake, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Eshan Malinga, Nuwan Thushara WI vs SL: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Pathum Nissanka and Shimron Hetmyer are two key batters for both sides who can play well according to the situation. Probable Bowler Nuwan Thushara and Jason Holder are two specialist T20 bowlers who have been performing well in this format. Today Match Prediction : West Indies have a powerful and long batting unit. Hence, we predict West Indies to win the first T20I. WI vs SL Match 1st T20I, 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
Prabhsimran, Gaikwad, Tilak score fifties in DLS loss to Afghanistan A
Half-centuries from Imran Mir and Bahir Shah ensured Afghanistan A stayed ahead of the DLS par in a rain-hit game
Womens T20 WC: England Begin Quest To End 17-year Drought As Sri Lanka Eye Maiden Title (Preview)
T20 World Cup: The ICC Womens T20 World Cup 2026 gets underway with hosts England taking on Sri Lanka in a Group A clash at the Edgbaston Stadium in Birmingham on Friday. Both teams will be eager to begin their campaign on a winning note, with valuable points at stake in the race for the semifinals. England enter the tournament as one of the favourites to lift the trophy, bolstered by home conditions and a squad packed with experience. Led by Nat Sciver-Brunt, the hosts possess a formidable lineup featuring Heather Knight, Amy Jones, Alice Capsey, Sophie Ecclestone, and Lauren Bell. Their confidence has also received a boost after a successful warm-up campaign, including a victory over India. The strength of England lies in their balance. They have explosive batting options in the top and middle orders, while their bowling attack offers a mix of pace and spin, capable of adapting to different conditions. Sri Lanka, meanwhile, will look to spring an early surprise. Much of their hopes will rest on captain Chamari Athapaththu, whose aggressive batting can single-handedly change the course of a match. The experienced opener remains Sri Lankas biggest match-winner and will be crucial if they are to challenge the hosts. Support from players such as Harshitha Samarawickrama, Vishmi Gunaratne, Kavisha Dilhari, and Sugandika Kumari will also be vital. However, Sri Lanka will need contributions across departments to compete against a strong England side. The key battle could be between the hosts overall depth and the Lankans ability to produce individual brilliance. While the hosts appear stronger on paper, World Cup openers often bring added pressure and unpredictability. Playing in familiar conditions and backed by home support, England start as clear favourites. However, Sri Lanka will be hoping Athapaththu and company can deliver a performance capable of unsettling one of the tournaments leading contenders. When: Friday, June 12, 11:00 PM IST Where: Edgbaston Stadium, Birmingham Where to watch: The England vs Sri Lanka match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Squads: Where to watch: The England vs Sri Lanka match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Sri Lanka: Chamari Athapaththu (c), Hasini Perera, Vishmi Gunarathne, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Imesha Dulani, Nilakshika Silva, Kaveesha Dilhari, Hansima Karunarathne, Kaushini Nuthyangana, Sugandika Dassanayaka, Nimasha Madushani, Kawya Kavindi, Malki Madara, Mithali Ayodhya, Chethana Vimukthi. Article Source: IANS
The Bangladesh Cricket Board: Bangladesh have reshaped their squads across formats ahead of a busy international stretch, recalling their premier fast-bowling trio of Taskin Ahmed, Nahid Rana, and Mustafizur Rahman for the upcoming T20I series against Australia while simultaneously rewarding Towhid Hridoy with a long-awaited place in the Test setup. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) unveiled separate squads for the three-match T20I contest against Australia in Chattogram and the subsequent one-off Test against Zimbabwe in Harare, with several notable inclusions and omissions reflecting both immediate priorities and long-term planning. Leading the headlines is the return of frontline quicks Taskin, Nahid, and Mustafizur to the T20I squad. The trio's comeback significantly strengthens Bangladesh's pace department after Taskin and Rana were rested during the previous T20I series against New Zealand earlier this year. Their return comes at the expense of several seam-bowling options. Tanzim Hasan Shakib, Ripon Mondol, and Mohammad Saifuddin have all missed out despite featuring during the New Zealand series, as selectors opted to restore their first-choice attack ahead of the challenge posed by Australia. The pace unit will also include Abdul Gaffar Saqlain, who was part of the squad against New Zealand but did not feature in any of the matches. Away from the T20 format, the most intriguing development is the elevation of Towhid Hridoy into Bangladesh's red-ball plans. The aggressive batter has built considerable international experience in white-ball cricket since debuting in 2023, featuring in 52 ODIs and 59 T20Is, but has yet to play a Test match. His inclusion in the 15-member squad for the Zimbabwe Test reflects the selectors' desire to inject greater attacking intent into the batting line-up. Despite relatively limited first-class exposure, Hridoy has shown enough promise to earn consideration, scoring three centuries in 16 first-class appearances. Hridoy's responsibilities have also increased in the T20I setup. Chief selector Habibul Bashar confirmed that the batter will serve as vice-captain under Litton Kumar Das after Saif Hassan stepped down from the role to concentrate on his own performances. The Test squad also features uncapped medium-pacer Robiul Haque, who continues to impress on the domestic circuit. Robiul has accumulated 107 wickets and 620 runs in 32 first-class matches and is viewed as a player capable of developing into a genuine pace-bowling all-rounder. Experienced seamer Khaled Ahmed has also been recalled. Meanwhile, several established names have been left out of the Zimbabwe Test as part of Bangladesh's workload-management strategy. Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Shoriful Islam, Taskin Ahmed, and Nahid Rana have all been rested, with team management continuing to rotate players across formats during a packed international calendar. Bangladesh's immediate focus will be the three-match T20I series against Australia, scheduled for June 17, 19, and 21 in Chattogram. The Test contingent will then depart for Zimbabwe on June 23 ahead of the one-off encounter in Harare, which begins on June 28. With experienced quicks returning to spearhead the T20I attack and Hridoy receiving his first opportunity in the longest format, the squad announcements signal Bangladesh's attempt to balance present-day competitiveness with the development of future all-format options. Bangladesh's immediate focus will be the three-match T20I series against Australia, scheduled for June 17, 19, and 21 in Chattogram. The Test contingent will then depart for Zimbabwe on June 23 ahead of the one-off encounter in Harare, which begins on June 28. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Test squad against Zimbabwe: Najmul Hossain Shanto (c), Shadman Islam, Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Tanzid Hasan, Mominul Haque, Mushfiqur Rahim, Litton Kumar Das, Taijul Islam, Nayeem Hasan, Khaled Ahmed, Ebadot Hossain, Hasan Mahmud, Towhid Hridoy, Amite Hasan, Robiul Haque. Article Source: IANS
Serena Williams' comeback at the Queen's Club is over after injury to doubles partner
Williams is set to play doubles at the Berlin Open in Germany next week
Dravid's son Anvay picked for India Under-19s' one-day games in Sri Lanka
He has been named in the squad for the three one-day games, to be played on July 4, 6 and 9 in Hambantota
Bristol, Southampton Venues Refurbished For Womens T20 WC: Tournament Director
The Bristol County Ground: The Bristol County Ground and the Utilita Bowl in Southampton have undergone significant infrastructure refurbishments ahead of the 2026 ICC Women's T20 World Cup, with tournament director Beth Barrett-Wild saying that they were done as part of a broader wave of facility investment triggered by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) hosting the global event from June 12 to July 5. When you host a World Cup, it gives you an opportunity to invest in sort of capital projects and initiatives. So we've got seven incredible host venues for the tournament this summer in six cities. At least three of those embarked on significant facility developments. The Bristol County grounds down in Gloucestershire - that's a multi-million pounds changing room refurbishment that they've undergone, which has been instigated by them being a Women's T20 World Cup host venue to meet those minimum requirements. So they're going to have incredible facilities, and I haven't been down to see them yet. I'm due to go in a couple of weeks to watch some of the games. But I think the changing facilities that they're going to have now are just going to be next level. I think they've got four facilities that they've invested in and a three million pounds project that they've embarked on. Those four facilities are again, because it means that they can host double headers really brilliantly. So double headers have been incredibly successful here through The Hundreds and we're going to see a few double headers actually through the tournament as well and Bristol are hosting some of those with four world-class changing facilities being put into place. Similarly, PMOA (Players and Match Officials area) refurbishments were done at the Hampshire Bowl on the South Coast in Southampton and they've done a lot of work there, Beth told IANS in an exclusive conversation on Thursday. Lancashire has also invested into Old Trafford, which had 63 female toilets in 2025 and that number will be 114 for the Womens T20 World Cup. They've done various things, both within Old Trafford, but then also in terms of some of their ancillary facilities. So they've got a really amazing development called Farrington, which is almost their second venue, and isn't directly linked to the World Cup. But I guess it's an outcome of the growth of the women's game that they've recognised that they need a world-class second facility now that can accommodate both men's and women's cricket. But that's kind of, I guess, been born out of just the growth over a period of time. Then there's some just more kind of in the moment facility elements that we're looking at like the fan profile that we're gonna see coming through, she added. Aside from the venue, the organisers also had to navigate a complex set of logistical challenges, including disruptions to global shipping and travel arising from the West Asia crisis. Beth revealed the ECB and ICC had maintained a joint risk register and contingency planning process throughout, and confirmed that all 12 competing nations had arrived without any major incident in the way. With that, it's obviously very unfortunate and sad that that is happening. We had been alert to it from the outset. We've worked very closely with the ICC on this and we've had various contingency plans in place around things like the shipping timelines for kit and equipment and there have been some challenges there. There have been a few delays there too, but we've worked through those as a team and we've got on top of those. One of the things that we were alert to was actually global travel and making sure teams arrived smoothly. We have got all 12 teams here, so that's good and we've managed that. Actually we were helped by, there was a few series going on actually in Scotland and Ireland and also England beforehand and teams did tend to arrive early there. But really that's just been about having them - we've had a risk register and sort of various contingency planning sessions in combination with the ICC. So us as the ECB LOC and the ICC had to make sure that we've just got various backup plans in place there. It's been something that we've had to be alert to, but we have been across. Fortunately, we've so far not encountered any major issues there, she explained. Theres also been some help from the British government too, added Beth. There's some other bits there around working with our UK government to make sure if there was any, for example, like shortages of fuel as a result of the crisis, how we'd work with that. So we're very plugged into that and various kinds of security elements too. We've got a very, very, very sort of high quality safety and security overlay across the tournament, which is the same level that you'd expect to see around a men's global events in terms of that security footprint. So that's all pretty well covered, she said. On the issue of online abuse - a growing concern across women's sport globally - Beth confirmed that dedicated monitoring software was in place for England women's players, with the ICC running a parallel system through an AI-driven programme named GoBubble at the tournament level. In 2024, the ICC used GoBubble to counter all kinds of social media abuse towards teams and players, and monitored 1.5 million comments which were toxic in nature. The issue of abuse towards players again emerged when India lower-order batter Bharti Fulmali received hate and trolling over her looks on social media. Then in terms of the online abuse element, look, this is something which is not nice. It's something that I think is getting worse in some regards, but I think we have got various monitoring processes in place now. I know definitely for England women, we are working with a company that helped to monitor and support our players on that and the ICC have got something in place as well, but I would need to double check that. In 2024, the ICC used GoBubble to counter all kinds of social media abuse towards teams and players, and monitored 1.5 million comments which were toxic in nature. The issue of abuse towards players again emerged when India lower-order batter Bharti Fulmali received hate and trolling over her looks on social media. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I know it's a company that's used by a few major women's team sports now in terms of that monitoring and support system. But it is something that everybody is aware of and needs to be addressed, she concluded. Article Source: IANS
'The Shoulder Finally Won': Riyan Parag Begins Road To Recovery After Successful Surgery
Riyan Parag: Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag has successfully undergone shoulder surgery, bringing an end to a prolonged battle with an injury that had troubled him for nearly two years and repeatedly disrupted his cricketing commitments. The 24-year-old had continued to play through discomfort despite recurring shoulder issues affecting him at both the domestic and international levels. The injury had also curtailed his opportunities with India after making his international debut in 2024. Parag admitted that the physical challenge had tested him throughout the last two seasons, forcing him to navigate periods of frustration while remaining available for his teams. He shared the update on social media, confirming that the procedure had gone according to plan and that his focus has now shifted towards rehabilitation and a return to competitive cricket. Well, the shoulder finally won. For everyone whos been asking, the surgery is done and went well. The past two years have tested me in ways I never expected. There were good days, frustrating days, and days when simply getting through a game was a challenge. But I wouldnt have wanted it any other way. Now comes a different challenge- recovery, rehab and patience. Ill be back doing what I love soon. See you on the other side, Parag wrote on Instagram while sharing a post-surgery picture from the hospital. The surgery comes after a demanding phase in Parag's career that saw him assume greater responsibility on and off the field. Earlier this year, he was appointed Rajasthan Royals' full-time captain for IPL 2026 and responded impressively by guiding the franchise into the playoffs in his debut season as skipper. Rajasthan eventually finished third after suffering a narrow defeat to the Gujarat Titans in Qualifier 2, falling one step short of the final. Well, the shoulder finally won. For everyone whos been asking, the surgery is done and went well. The past two years have tested me in ways I never expected. There were good days, frustrating days, and days when simply getting through a game was a challenge. But I wouldnt have wanted it any other way. Now comes a different challenge- recovery, rehab and patience. Ill be back doing what I love soon. See you on the other side, Parag wrote on Instagram while sharing a post-surgery picture from the hospital. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The BCCI had earlier stated that Parag's rehabilitation will be overseen by the Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru. Before returning to either domestic or international cricket, he will need to complete the prescribed recovery programme and receive clearance from the medical staff. Article Source: IANS
Over Cricket World Cup: Beth BarrettWild, the tournament director of 2026 ICC Womens T20 World Cup, said they have been working on a blueprint to sustain momentum in the womens game, something which was a key learning for her from the 2017 Womens ODI World Cup, adding that once demand is created, it has to be optimised with supply. Nine years ago, the 2017 Womens ODI World Cup in England, which the hosts won in a sold-out final at Lords, led to a transformation in perception about women's cricket. It went from a little-known sport into a highly followed one, apart from it being recognised as a commercially viable property just like how mens cricket is. In an exclusive conversation with IANS ahead of the T20 World Cup starting on Friday, Beth said the key lesson from 2017 ODI World Cup was the absence of a follow-on pathway for newly converted fans to watch more womens cricket and explained the plan about keeping fans hooked to ensure that the momentum from this summer's mega does not dissipate the moment the final ends on July 5 at Lords. So lots and lots of lessons (were there) from 2017. I was very fortunate personally to get to work on the 2017 Women's 50 Over Cricket World Cup that we hosted here as a strategic planning manager. That was very much kind of behind the scenes and trying to make sure that we maximise that moment as best as possible, which we did see through to the final. So that sold out England v India final at Lord's and those incredible scenes that day and it was definitely here in England, probably the first moment where we'd seen a traditionally male dominated sport, such as cricket, really break through at scale on a national level and really capture the imagination of the nation. Having that final sold out really just demonstrated that actually if you build an opportunity for the women's game to really shine and you market it properly and have a really good ticketing strategy behind it, there is an audience there that wants to watch it. So that was really, really important that we had that big final moment, she said. However, Beth acknowledged that the 2017 ODI World Cup triumph was followed by a significant gap in matches for England. But in terms of learnings, one of the things in terms of really sort of capturing that momentum, England women didn't actually play another fixture that summer. So we played in that final, we had that big ground swell of love for the England women's team and all of that attention. Then we didn't have anywhere to signpost those fans into going to watch and sort of continue their following of the England women's team, she said. This time, the ECB has engineered a near-seamless calendar. The T20 World Cup final at Lord's on July 5 will be followed just five days later by the first-ever women's Test match at the iconic ground - England versus India beginning on July 10 and is followed the Vitality Blast women's T20 finals day at the Kia Oval on July 17, before The Hundred begins. So that's certainly something that we've looked at really carefully this summer. Immediately after the final at Lord's on the 5th of July, we have got the iconic first historic ever women's test match at Lord's against India. That starts on the 10th of July, just five days later and it's a different format, but there is still a notion there that it will be big scale, it will be iconic in status and all of those things. So straight away, fans will have the opportunity to watch England women in action or India women in action in that fixture. Then we go from there, we've got our domestic women's T20 competition finals day, which is the Vitality Blast and that's on the 17th of July at the Kia Oval, which is one of our venues for semifinals again within the T20 World Cup. So that's no coincidence, as that's really carefully identified as an opportunity again to signpost people in. Then after that, we've got The Hundred and that's probably one of the big shifts that we've seen since 2017 and the impact that The Hundred can have in terms of that blockbuster high profile, high quality world-class domestic franchise competition, where again, immediately, fans can watch the women's T20 World Cup and have a brilliant experience there and then go and watch the heroes again and that's one of the things that I'm really excited about, she elaborated. Beth added that the tournaments quality itself would make the transition for fans to see The Hundred in a more compelling manner, especially with many World Cupbound players expected to feature in the competition. The quality of this Women's T20 World Cup is gonna be stronger, better and deeper than we've ever seen. It really is quite an open playing field actually across those 12 nations, which is really exciting. I think whoever is in the final on the 5th of July, there's a very high probability that some of those players featuring in that final, whether it's from England, South Africa, India, Australia and West Indies, will then be going on to play in The Hundred. So those players, that familiarity, connection, and engagement will continue forward into that competition. So that's probably one of the really big learnings, I guess, coming out of 2017, is making sure that once you've created that demand, you're really optimising it with supply afterwards and you've got those signpost pieces. Then actually, if you project a little bit further for us, so 2027, we're very fortunate that, again, we've got the women's Ashes. When we talk about maintaining that momentum, it's not just directly in 26 where we'll keep up that cadence. Actually continuing that into next summer with a big high-profile summer for us as the ECB with that series against Australia is really, really important, again, to really build on that fan following for the women's game. So again, it's no coincidence. Beth, who has had a very close view of the evolution of the womens game in England, including the equal pay and revamp of womens domestic cricket structure in the country, further spoke about how the ECB planned on 2026 and 2027 to be big years of womens cricket in the country. When we got the opportunity to identify within the Future Tours programme where the big global events were gonna be of the ICC, I think that was probably the best part of maybe two or three years ago, actually, that we got that list. Everybody was like, it's the 2026 Women's T20 World Cup that we want to host because it just fits perfectly with where we're gonna be in terms of immediately ahead of the Ashes in 2027. But then also actually, crucially, having had five years of building the audience for women's cricket through The Hundred and England women's team. So look, we're coming into this summer and this tournament in a really, really strong space, and that's actually just in cricket, she said. She also pointed to the broader wave of women's sport success in England as a tailwind - from the Lionesses winning the UEFA Women's Euros at Wembley in 2022 to the Red Roses claiming the Women's Rugby World Cup on home soil at Twickenham in 2025. Like, we're also coming off the back of so much womens sport and you must be aware that we've recently hosted the UEFA Women's Euros in 2022 in the football and the amazing scenes of the Lionesses winning that tournament at Wembley. Then more recently in 2025 with the Women's Rugby World Cup and the Red Roses winning that tournament on home soil. So again, just in terms of the general momentum behind women's sports, this Women's T20 World Cup really couldn't have come at a better time, she said. Beth explained that the pathway now extended from grassroots all the way to the elite professional level - a depth of structure that simply did not exist in 2017. So since then, going into 2017, I think we had 15 professional female cricketers, which were just the England women's team. We now have over 150 female professional cricketers in this country because we've got a fully-fledged professional women's domestic structure with nine fully professional women's domestic teams underpinned by nine semi-professional teams and then a sort of further base underneath that. So we've got the depth of our infrastructure now for women's cricket in the elite pathway is very, very strong. Again, when you go from a playing perspective, if we have a generation of young girls falling in love with women's cricket through this tournament and being inspired by what they see, we've got an infrastructure now that is ready with open arms to capture them, she said. The tournament also has grassroots ambitions, with a target of getting 500,000 women and girls to pick up a bat and ball this summer through club Spirit parties, open days and taster sessions across England and Wales. That will start with what we're doing in the recreational game and through the tournament, we're gonna have a series of activities and initiatives. So we're calling them Spirit parties because the whole campaign for the tournament is to catch the spirit because that's the infectious nature of a Women's World Cup, but combined with a special kind of soul of women's cricket and how it's different and unique and special from the men's game. So recreational clubs will be hosting Spirit parties and we've given them various resources, kind of a series of things like bunting and dressing. Posters and all sorts of things, balloons that they can really decorate their clubhouses with and encourage their communities to come down and watch the Women's T20 World Cup if they can't come along to watch in the venue. So we're calling them Spirit parties because the whole campaign for the tournament is to catch the spirit because that's the infectious nature of a Women's World Cup, but combined with a special kind of soul of women's cricket and how it's different and unique and special from the men's game. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Then we've got that pathway - so that in the elite pathway, our talented players can really progress through that and aspire to be professional cricketers. Again, that probably wasn't quite the case in 2017, we weren't quite there. But 2017 was very much the spark that ignited, I guess, the platform to put everything in place that means that we're going into 2026 with a really, really, really strong proposition to hopefully create an even stronger foundation for women's cricket, she concluded. Article Source: IANS
Thailand, Hong Kong, UAE And Indonesia Secure Women's Asia Cup Berth
Captain Ni Putu Ayu Nanda: Thailand, Hong Kong, the UAE and Indonesia confirmed their places in the Womens T20 Asia Cup later this year after registering comfortable victories in the quarter-finals of the ACC Womens Premier Cup on Thursday. All four teams had topped their respective groups during the league stage and carried that momentum into the knockout rounds, producing commanding performances to book both semi-final berths and qualification for the continental tournament. Thailand continued their unbeaten run with a convincing 56-run victory over Nepal in Kuala Lumpur. Wicketkeeper-batter Nannapat Koncharoenkai starred with a composed 62 as Thailand posted 130 for 4. Their bowlers then took control, restricting Nepal to 74 for 7 to seal a one-sided win, according to ESPNCricinfo. The UAE also enjoyed a comfortable outing against hosts Malaysia. Powered by an unbeaten 65 from Theertha Satish, the UAE amassed 138 for 2 before their bowlers limited Malaysia to 86 for 5, securing a 52-run triumph. In Bangi, Hong Kong overcame Japan by 41 runs thanks to an all-round display. Yasmin Daswani anchored the innings with an unbeaten 55 off just 36 deliveries, while Maryam Bibi (3/17) and Marina Lamplough (2/11) played key roles in dismantling Japans chase. The UAE also enjoyed a comfortable outing against hosts Malaysia. Powered by an unbeaten 65 from Theertha Satish, the UAE amassed 138 for 2 before their bowlers limited Malaysia to 86 for 5, securing a 52-run triumph. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The semi-finals will see Thailand face Indonesia, while Hong Kong take on the UAE in Kuala Lumpur on Friday. Although the participating teams have now been confirmed, the schedule for the Womens T20 Asia Cup is yet to be announced. Article Source: IANS
'200,000 Tickets Sold; Excited For The World To Fall In Love With Women's Cricket': Barrett-Wild
T20 World Cup: Beth BarrettWild, tournament director of the 2026 Womens T20 World Cup, said she is excited for a nation o fall in love with womens cricket as ticket sales for the 12-team mega event have touched the 200,000 mark. Billed as the biggest-ever Womens T20 World Cup, the tenth edition of the tournament will see 33 games being played around seven venues. The competition will start on June 12 in Edgbaston and end on July 5 at Lords. We have been building towards this moment probably for at least 12 months, but between 12 to 18 months now. We have set out with really big ambitions for this tournament. Our vision is to bring women's cricket into the mainstream. That is all about scale and status and real perception shifts around the women's game. We really want a nation in the world to really fall in love with women's cricket this summer and to recognise the world-class quality that it epitomises now, Beth told IANS in an exclusive conversation ahead of the competition on Thursday. England are hosting a Women's T20 World Cup for the first time since 2009. We have been building over the last year, 12 months and there's a very detailed operational plan that has gone into that from a kind of event delivery perspective. That's all of the stuff you'd expect around venue operations. One of our key objectives for this tournament actually is around player satisfaction. So we wanna make sure the players have the best possible experience and sort of our KPIs is around that player experience point. That's everything from their travel and accommodation through to the facilities that they're gonna be playing and training at through the tournament. There's been a lot of attention to detail on that, but also a lot of work going in behind the scenes and off-field around and really growing the audience for the women's game, especially across England and Wales, she added. The tournament has an ambition to sell 270,000 tickets, and surpass the box office sales done during the iconic 2020 edition in Australia, which famously concluded with a sold-out final at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Beth, who played hockey and cricket before joining the England & Wales Cricket Board (ECB) in 2013, said that benchmark itself was a reflection of how far the women's game had progressed. We've got big ticketing ambitions and actually just broke through 200,000 tickets for this event. So we're actually going after around 270,000 attendances in total, which would be double the previous highest attended Women's T20 World Cup, which was the iconic one in Australia back in 2020 with the amazing scenes at the MCG back then. But we wanna double the total attendance here and that just shows how much the women's game has grown now and actually the really solid foundations that we're coming into this tournament from having had that kind of global exposure, but then also at a local level recently through things like The Hundred and the growth of the women's team, she said. On the insights ticket sales have shown so far, Beth revealed that 36 percent of ticket purchases for this tournament had been made by women. We've had to look really carefully at this like the female toilets, because a lot of our venues, the way that they're set up from a historic fan and audience perspective for cricket, it is a traditionally very male-dominated audience. For men's cricket, that is still absolutely the case. So we know, for example, for an England men's fixture, roughly 80 percent of ticket purchases will be male. Whereas for this Women's T20 World Cup, we're seeing, I think, 36 percent of ticket purchases are female. So that's our highest percentage of female ticket purchases across any of our products - whether that's England Men's Test cricket, T20 cricket, The Hundred and etc. 36 percent female ticket purchases for this World Cup is the highest percentage there. We're around 23 percent kids' tickets. - that's slightly lower than The Hundred as it's played in the heart of our school summer holidays and it very much is targeting that family audience. Whereas actually I think for the Women's T20 World Cup in terms of our audience strategy, yes, it is. I think women's cricket and women's sport naturally entices a slightly more female and younger demographic, but that's not been our sole focus, she said. She outlined four distinct audience groups the tournament was targeting: devotees already engaged with cricket in all formats; all format fans open to the women's game; cricket converts drawn in through The Hundred; and andwagoners who simply love a major event and hope to see more of them in rest of the summer. But I think it's really important actually in terms of our audience segmentation it's not all about going after a new audience. A lot of it actually is about just trying to convert our core audience and trying to just shift their perceptions, I suppose. You started there in terms of what 2017 did to help shift perceptions around sports. There is still a perception gap that we're trying to close. So it's actually one of our big key and long-term KPIs is that we wanna close the perception that cricket is still a primarily male-dominated sport. We know that of UK sports fans, 40 percent of those still primarily view cricket primarily as a sport for men and boys in this country and we wanna close that gap, she said. Organisers are targeting a six percent reduction in the number of fans who view cricket as primarily a male sport, aiming instead for a perception of it as gender-equal. We wanna see a 6 percent increase in the number of fans that view cricket as a gender equal sport. There's a big perception shift still to be done and the audience profile of the fans that we're gonna be attracting to the venues is a big part of that. It's not to say that we're trying to educate them. I think we're just trying to showcase what a world-class proposition women's cricket is now, added Beth. She further explained how the tournaments broadcast quality would play a key role in that perception shift, with the ICC deploying a 30-plus camera operation including drones, spider cams and buggy cams - the same production standard used for a men's global event. What you'd expect for a men's game, we're gonna see through this tournament. But then also some of the storytelling that we'll do through the analytics will be really showcasing how women's cricket is not any less good than the men's cricket. It's just different and we know, for example, we've got some amazing stats that show that there's just more precision and control in the women's game. So from a bowling perspective, more of a higher percentage of deliveries go on to hit the stumps and that's really cool just because it's just different, right? The modes of dismissal, therefore, are different. There's a statistic as well that says that definitely in T20 cricket, there are more twos run in the women's game than there are in the men's game. So we're gonna highlight and showcase that and try to get people excited about that. It's just a journey that we need to take fans on in terms of really highlighting exactly how good the women's game is now and using data and insight and production quality in a way to hopefully do that, she said. The tournament's campaign slogan, Catch the Spirit, reflects what Beth described as the infectious and unique character of pulling more fans towards women's cricket. We have big ambitions for it. It's personally something that I'm incredibly proud of to be a part of and I know the team, I think, are as well (feeling the same). So we're gonna highlight and showcase that and try to get people excited about that. It's just a journey that we need to take fans on in terms of really highlighting exactly how good the women's game is now and using data and insight and production quality in a way to hopefully do that, she said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score It's about really making sure that we're using the tournament to shift thinking, feeling, behaviour and perceptions of women's cricket long-term. I'm just really, really excited for the world to fall in love with women's cricket this summer, she concluded. Article Source: IANS
Yashbardhan Chauhan To Lead India U19 Squads For Sri Lanka Tour
Yashbardhan Singh Chauhan: Yashbardhan Singh Chauhan will be leading India men's U-19 team for the upcoming tour of Sri Lanka, which comprises three One-Day matches and two Multi-Day fixtures, scheduled to begin next month. Lakshya Raichandani will serve as Chauhan's deputy as the BCCI named squads for both one-day and multi-day fixtures. The white-ball leg of the tour kicks off on July 4 in Hambantota, which will host all three one-day matches. Following the limited-overs series, the team will transition to red-ball cricket for two multi-day matches. The first multi-day game is slated to be played in Galle from July 13 to 16, while the final fixture of the tour will take place in Colombo from July 20 to 23. Rajat Baghel and Anvay Dravid have been handed the gloves for the One-Day squad, whereas Manav Krishna and Aryan Sandesh Sakpal will take over wicketkeeping duties for the multi-day games. India Mens U19 One-Day squad: Sagar Virk, Lakshya Raichandani (VC), Yashbardhan Singh Chauhan (C), Vineeth V K, Arjun Rajput, Kushagra Ojha, Rajat Baghel (WK), Anvay Dravid (WK), Anmoljeet Singh, Vutkuri Yashveer Goud, Rohit Anil Yadav, Shavin V, Kavya Paresh Patel, Mohit Ulva, Ishan Sood India Mens U19 multi-day squad: Sagar Virk, Lakshya Raichandani (VC), Yashbardhan Singh Chauhan (C), Patel Kush, Manal Chauhan, Kushagra Ojha, Manav Krishna (WK), Aryan Sandesh Sakpal (WK), Hemchudeshan J, BK Kishore, Rohit Anil Yadav, Kavya Paresh Patel, Priyanshu Singh, Pranav Raghvendra, Chigurupati Venkata Earlier, the Women's Selection Committee picked the Womens U19 squads for the Sri Lanka Womens U19 Tour of India, which will comprise three T20 matches and three One-Day matches, fromJune 20 to July 6. The three T20s will be played in Chennai while Puducherry will host One-day games. Schedule: 1st One-Day: July 4 in Hambantota 2nd One-Day July 6 in Hambantota 3rd One-Day July 9 in Hambantota 2nd One-Day July 6 in Hambantota Also Read: Live Cricket Score 2nd 1st Multi-Day: July 23-26 in Colombo Article Source: IANS
'One Last Dance': Five Icons Set For Their FIFA World Cup Swansong
One Last Dance: As the FIFA World Cup 2026 approaches, fans around the world are preparing for a month of unforgettable moments and dramatic finishes, but beyond the race for footballs biggest prize, the tournament is also expected to mark the end of an era. For several of the games most celebrated names, this World Cup could be the final chapter of careers that have inspired millions and defined a generation of football. Some have already lifted the trophy, others are still chasing the one achievement, but all will step onto the field knowing this could be their last appearance on the sports grandest stage. Here are five football legends who are likely playing their final FIFA World Cup. 1. Lionel Messi (Argentina) After completing footballs ultimate dream by leading Argentina to World Cup glory in 2022, Lionel Messi returns for what is expected to be his final appearance at the tournament. The eight-time Ballon dOr winner ended decades of debate by lifting the trophy in Qatar and now has a chance to achieve another historic feat, helping Argentina become the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the World Cup title. Regardless of how far Argentina go, Messis legacy as one of footballs greatest players is already secure. 2. Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal) Few athletes have redefined longevity quite like Cristiano Ronaldo. The Portuguese superstar has enjoyed a remarkable international career spanning more than two decades and remains his countrys biggest inspiration. The World Cup is the only major trophy missing from Ronaldos collection, making 2026 one final opportunity to complete footballs ultimate challenge. At 41, he enters the tournament knowing every match could be his last on the World Cup stage. 3. Luka Modric (Croatia) Luka Modric has been the symbol of Croatias rise as a football powerhouse. From guiding his nation to the 2018 final to another podium finish in 2022, the midfield maestro has consistently delivered on the biggest occasions. Now 40, Modric remains Croatias leader and creative force. A strong run in 2026 would provide a fitting farewell to one of the finest midfielders the game has ever seen. 4. Thomas Muller (Germany) A World Cup winner in 2014 and one of Germanys greatest tournament performers, Thomas Mller has built a reputation for thriving under pressure. His intelligence, movement and knack for producing decisive moments have made him a fan favourite for more than a decade. As Germany look to reclaim their place among footballs elite, the 36-year-old will hope to sign off with one final memorable campaign. 5. Neymar (Brazil) His intelligence, movement and knack for producing decisive moments have made him a fan favourite for more than a decade. As Germany look to reclaim their place among footballs elite, the 36-year-old will hope to sign off with one final memorable campaign. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Neymar, Brazil's all-time leading scorer with 79 goals in 128 international matches, has not played for Brazil since suffering a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament in October 2023. However, he has been included in the squad and would look to turn things around for Brazil, who are searching for their sixth FIFA World Cup trophy in 24 years. Article Source: IANS
Rohit, Virat's Presence An Advantage For Captain Gill In 2027 WC: Raina
ODI World Cup: Former India batter Suresh Raina touched upon the importance of ODI skipper Shubman Gill having veterans Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma's experience by his side in the 2027 World Cup, saying, The presence of experience from the two veterans can make all the difference. Kohli and Rohit, who have retired from T20I and Test cricket, remain exclusively active in ODIs. During the 2019 ODI World Cup, Rohit was the top scorer with 648 runs in nine games at an average of 81.00 with five hundreds and a half-century. He also became the first batsman in World Cup history to score five centuries in a single edition. In the 2023 edition, Kohli was the leading run-scorer, amassing a historic 765 runs in 11 innings. Sachin Tendulkar's record (673 runs) for most runs in a single edition. Kohli was named the Player of the Tournament. Physical and mental preparation will be key for Virat Kohli. He looks very strong in white-ball cricket. The same goes for Rohit Sharma. Both are proven run-scorers in ICC World Cups. Rohit topped the run charts in 2019, and Virat did the same in 2023. They have also won ICC trophies, which adds immense value to their leadership and presence. They know how to handle pressure in knockout games. They have been there, done that, Raina said on JioStar. Experience matters in big tournaments. The young batters around them will benefit from their guidance. For Shubman Gill, captaining India in a World Cup, having Rohit and Virat alongside him will be a huge advantage. Their experience will be invaluable on and off the field. In a high-pressure tournament like the World Cup, that kind of presence can make all the difference, he added. Meanwhile, former spinner and coach Anil Kumble praised Gill for not letting the captaincy affect his batting. Shubman Gill is a very experienced captain. We have seen it in the IPL, he has rotated his bowlers well, used his spinners at the right time, and handled pressure situations with clarity. His form with the bat has not dipped. Sometimes, when players take up the captaincy role, they go through a dip in form. That is not the case with Shubman. He does not let the pressure of captaincy affect his batting. What helps him is the presence of experienced players around him. The Indian ODI team is very strong. Having players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma on the field helps him read the game better. They can guide him with field placements, bowling changes, and key tactical decisions. Shreyas Iyer is now the T20I captain, and he can share his inputs as well. So, Shubman doesn't have to carry the burden alone. He has the right mindset and the right people around him to succeed, he said. Shubman Gill is a very experienced captain. We have seen it in the IPL, he has rotated his bowlers well, used his spinners at the right time, and handled pressure situations with clarity. His form with the bat has not dipped. Sometimes, when players take up the captaincy role, they go through a dip in form. That is not the case with Shubman. He does not let the pressure of captaincy affect his batting. What helps him is the presence of experienced players around him. Also Read: Live Cricket Score However, Kohli has been ruled out of the upcoming three-ODI series against Afghanistan after injuring his hamstring during Royal Challengers Bengaluru's run to the IPL 2026 title last week. Yashasvi Jaiswal has replaced him in the squad. Article Source: IANS
Women's T20 WC: Australia Coach Nitschke 'hopeful' For Litchfield To Play Opener Amid Injury Concern
T20 World Cup: Australia's preparations for the ICC Women's T20 World Cup have been clouded by a fitness concern surrounding Phoebe Litchfield, but the defending champions remain optimistic that the young batter will be available for their opening fixture against South Africa. Litchfield did not feature in Australia's warm-up games after experiencing discomfort in her quad, prompting team management to take a cautious approach ahead of their campaign opener. With the six-time champions set to begin their quest for a record seventh title in Manchester on Saturday, head coach Shelley Nitschke expressed confidence that the left-hander would be ready when it matters most. Yeah, we hope so. Obviously, she had some quad awareness, and it was just on the conservative side to leave her out of these two games. But we're hopeful that she's going to be able to take her place in the side for the first round (match), Nitschke said when asked whether Litchfield would be available for their T20 WC opener. Australia head into the tournament with momentum after closing out their warm-up schedule with a comfortable six-wicket victory over the West Indies in Cardiff. While Litchfield remained on the sidelines, the batting unit showed few signs of disruption, with Georgia Voll producing an aggressive 77 at the top of the order, supported by Beth Mooney's 34. The bowling attack was equally effective, with seven different players sharing the wickets, further underlining the depth available to the Australian camp ahead of the World Cup. That depth, however, has posed a different challenge for Nitschke as she works towards finalising her starting XI for the clash against South Africa. Australia head into the tournament with momentum after closing out their warm-up schedule with a comfortable six-wicket victory over the West Indies in Cardiff. While Litchfield remained on the sidelines, the batting unit showed few signs of disruption, with Georgia Voll producing an aggressive 77 at the top of the order, supported by Beth Mooney's 34. Also Read: Live Cricket Score As the countdown to the tournament opener enters its final stages, Australia will spend the next two days monitoring Litchfield's recovery. The early indications are encouraging, but her fitness remains one of the key storylines ahead of the six-time champions' highly anticipated clash against the Proteas. Article Source: IANS
Giants Under Pressure In Open Women's T20 World Cup
The Women's T20 World Cup starts on Friday when hosts England face Sri Lanka in Birmingham, with at least one leading nation guaranteed an early exit from what promises to be an unusually open tournament. A 12-team competition where the teams are split into two pools of six ought to be without a 'group of death'. But women's cricket heavyweights Australia, India and South Africa are all in Group One and, with only the top two advancing to the semi-finals, one of the trio will be heading home before a knockout phase that culminates in a Lord's final on July 5. A Group Two featuring defending champions New Zealand and England looks more straightforward, albeit both teams will be wary of the West Indies, tournament winners back in 2016 but rarely hitting such heights in recent times. Meanwhile, Ireland, Scotland and the Netherlands will all fly the flag for European cricket alongside established Asian nations such as Pakistan and Sri Lanka. The growth of white-ball competitions such as Australia's Big Bash, England's Hundred and India's Women's Premier League means top female cricketers are now exposed to top-level competition outside of major international tournaments as never before. Australia have dominated the women's game for decades, but for the first time since 2018 the six-time T20 champions do not have global silverware to defend. - 'Evolved' - I think it can free us up if we harness that, said Australia captain Sophie Molineux. The last couple of World Cups we've learnt a whole lot from that and been able to implement a few things. I feel like we've really evolved as a team in the last few months. But in appointing left-arm spinner Molineux, troubled by back problems, as skipper in succession to retired all-time great Alyssa Healy, Australia may have created a problem for themselves, with talented leg-spinner Alana King set to be omitted from the team. India are the 50-over world champions and boast some of the best batters in women's cricket in Smriti Mandhana, Yastika Bhatia and Jemimah Rodrigues, with the big-hitting Harmanpreet Kaur leading the side. They have been inconsistent since arriving for a bilateral series with tournament hosts England but remain capable of beating any side on their day, with defiant skipper Kaur, asked by a reporter on Sunday if, at the age of 37, this might be her last global tournament: You think I should stop? South Africa have reached the last three major women's finals but have still recalled two veterans out of retirement in fast bowler Shabnim Ismail and batter Dane van Niekerk. Ismail holds the record for the fastest ball ever bowled in women's international cricket -- 128 kmh (80 mph) against the West Indies in 2016. New Zealand will be bidding farewell to two all-time greats in Suzie Bates and Sophie Devine at this tournament, with Lea Tahuhu also set to retire as well. The surprise champions of 2024, the pressure appears to be off New Zealand this time around. England Women have won every World Cup on home soil but they are without a world title of any kind since their 2017 50-over triumph at Lord's. Charlotte Edwards, a serial winner as England captain, was appointed as coach following the team's humiliating 16-0 loss in the 2024/25 multi-format Ashes. Nevertheless, she has kept faith with many of the same players who were badly exposed in Australia and whose nerve has repeatedly failed them in knockout games. Also Read: Live Cricket Score But Edwards, speaking after announcing an England squad led by all-rounder Nat Sciver-Brunt and featuring 21-year-olds Freya Kemp and Alice Capsey, said: It's a very different side to the one that walked out in the last game of the Ashes... We've seen a real confidence build in those players. A real belief.
India-born Nikhil Chaudhary called into Australia T20 squad
Former Punjab allrounder Chaudhary replaces Travis Head for Bangladesh T20Is after three excellent seasons with Hurricanes in the BBL
Bhavika Ahire To Lead India U19 As BCCI Unveils Squads For SL U19 White-ball Series
U19 World Cup: India's pathway programme for emerging women's cricketers will take centre stage later this month as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the squads and schedule for the upcoming Under-19 white-ball series against Sri Lanka at home. The six-match assignment, comprising three T20s in Chennai and three One-Day matches in Puducherry, is set to provide another important testing ground for players pushing to establish themselves in India's growing youth cricket ecosystem. The announcement highlights Bhavika Ahire's elevation as wicketkeeper-batter and captain in both formats, reflecting her leadership qualities and recent age-group cricket performances. Supporting her will be Mahak Narwase, appointed vice-captain for both the T20 and One-Day teams. This leadership pair will manage a squad composed of players who have progressively advanced through domestic and junior levels. While the selectors have maintained a strong core across both formats, the squads also feature a blend of specialist options tailored to the demands of T20 and 50-over cricket. The continuity suggests a long-term focus on developing combinations and identifying players capable of progressing through the national pathway. Several youngsters have retained the confidence of the selectors across both squads, including Ira Jadhav, Ishwari Awasare, Purva Siwach, Kumari Palak, Kashvi Kandikuppa, Gouri Goyal, Janvi Vikar and Anaadi Tagde. Their inclusion in both formats underlines their growing stature within the junior setup and offers them an opportunity to gain valuable international exposure. The series comes at a significant time for women's age-group cricket, with the Under-19 structure becoming an increasingly important stepping stone toward higher honours. Bilateral contests against overseas opposition provide young players with experiences that domestic cricket alone cannot replicate, including adapting to pressure situations, handling unfamiliar opponents and adjusting to different game scenarios. India's women's cricket system has increasingly benefited from a strong developmental pipeline, with several players successfully transitioning from youth cricket to the senior national side in recent years. The upcoming series against Sri Lanka will therefore be closely watched by selectors and team management as they continue to assess the next wave of talent to build up for the next U19 World Cup. T20 squad: Bhavika Ahire (c & wk), Ira Jadhav, Tanishka Sharma, Ishwari Awasare, Avni Chawda, Mahto Nidhi, Purva Siwach, Kumari Palak, Mahak Narwase (vc), Kashvi Kandikuppa, Maniar Maitri, Gouri Goyal, Janhavi Virkar, Anaadi Tagde, K Deeksha (wk) One-Day squad: Bhavika Ahire (c & wk), Ira Jadhav, Deeya Yadav, Ishwari Awasare, V Pratiksha, Mahto Nidhi, Purva Siwach, Kumari Palak, Mahak Narwase (vc), Kashvi Kandikuppa, Vidhi Parmar, Gouri Goyal, Janhavi Virkar, Anaadi Tagde, K Deeksha (wk) T20I Schedule: June 22: 1st T20 June 24: 2nd T20 June 27: 3rd T20 (All matches to be played in Chennai) ODI Schedule: June 30: 1st OD July 3: 2nd OD June 30: 1st OD Also Read: Live Cricket Score (All matches to be played in Puducherry) Article Source: IANS
