Guwahati Royals, Barpeta Braves Clash For APL 2026 Title In Blockbuster Final
Assam Cricket Association Stadium: The stage is set for a fitting finale to the inaugural Assam Premier League (APL), with the top two teams from the league stage, Guwahati Royals and Barpeta Braves, set to battle for the title at the Assam Cricket Association Stadium on Sunday. The two sides finished level on 14 points after the league stage, with Guwahati Royals taking top spot on the strength of a superior net run rate of 0.920, ahead of Barpeta Braves at 0.614. The final brings together two teams that have consistently impressed through the tournament, setting up an exciting contest for the inaugural title. For Guwahati Royals, the campaign has been driven by a potent combination of young talent and experienced heads. They will head into the final on the back of a commanding seven-wicket victory over Barak Legends in a rain-curtailed semi-final. Rohit Sen's stunning 62 off 26 balls powered them into the title clash, while Bastab Roy once again underlined his importance with the ball, claiming 3/18. Roy has been one of the standout performers of the APL and currently leads the bowling charts with 22 wickets, putting him firmly in line for the Purple Cap. However, the young pacer has insisted that team success remains his priority. I don't put individual performance ahead. Yes, I am currently on top of the Purple Cap standings, but that's a different thing. Winning for the team is more important. And playing the final is even better, said Bastab. He also highlighted the value of having experienced players around him during his breakthrough campaign. This tournament is a very big tournament for me. I have played club cricket and district cricket before. So, senior players like Rishabh Das, Deepak Das, Mukhtar Hussain and Abu sir (coach of the Royals), it feels good to work with them, he said. Barpeta Braves, meanwhile, overcame Dibrugarh Warriors in a thrilling semi-final, with Saurav Mousum Dihingia carrying his bat for an unbeaten 63 to guide them into the final. Their campaign has been built around a strong collective effort, particularly from their bowling unit, with Shubham Kumar Gupta among the leading wicket-takers of the league with 19 wickets. Shubham Kumar Gupta has been one of the key contributors to their campaign with 19 wickets, and the all-rounder believes the team's ability to bounce back has been crucial. The good thing about a good team is that they make a comeback after losing, which we did. Our team played as a unit. That's why we reached here today, said Shubham. With the final now in sight, Shubham is keen for Barpeta to approach the occasion in the same manner as any other game. We will play the final as we play other matches. There is no pressure that it is the final. We started playing cricket because we liked it. That's why we have enjoyed it till now. We will play the final as well, he said. Barpeta will, however, head into the title clash without skipper Denish Das, who led the side through most of the season but has left to join his Duleep Trophy commitments. The Braves will now look to their squad to step up in his absence. With the final now in sight, Shubham is keen for Barpeta to approach the occasion in the same manner as any other game. We will play the final as we play other matches. There is no pressure that it is the final. We started playing cricket because we liked it. That's why we have enjoyed it till now. We will play the final as well, he said. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories With the two top-ranked teams meeting for the title and a historic championship at stake, the inaugural Assam Premier League is set for a grand finale on Sunday night. Article Source: IANS
Starc Pips Cummins To Become Leading Wicket-taker In WTC History
World Test Championship: Mitchell Starc etched his name in the history books as the Australia pacer became the leading wicket-taker in World Test Championship (WTC) history, producing a sensational spell against Bangladesh in the second Test in Mackay on Saturday. Starc tore through Bangladeshs batting line-up and finished with great figures of 6-12 as Australia bowled the visitors out for just 64 after winning the toss and opting to field first. The veteran pacer's stunning spell saw him overtake Australia teammate Pat Cummins to become the highest wicket-taker in WTC history. He now has 230 wickets in 56 matches, moving ahead of Cummins and Nathan Lyon, who have 225 wickets each. Indias Ravichandran Ashwin and Jasprit Bumrah complete the top five with 195 and 185 wickets respectively. Starcs six-wicket haul also took him to the top of the wicket-takers list in the ongoing WTC 2025-27 cycle. He now has 54 wickets from 10 Tests, moving ahead of Englands Josh Tongue, who has 53. The left-arm pacer needed only one delivery to make an impact, removing Shadman Islam with the opening ball of the Test. Shadmans leading edge flew to Cameron Green at gully, giving Starc his fourth Test wicket on the first ball of the match. Starc struck again in the third over, dismissing Tanzid Hasan before trapping Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto lbw with the very next delivery. He then removed Mominul Haque, caught by Green, as Bangladesh quickly slipped into deep trouble. Litton Das became Starcs fifth victim after being trapped lbw, completing a remarkable five-wicket haul in just 22 deliveries. Starc struck again in the third over, dismissing Tanzid Hasan before trapping Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto lbw with the very next delivery. He then removed Mominul Haque, caught by Green, as Bangladesh quickly slipped into deep trouble. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Starcs record-breaking performance came at a crucial stage for Australia, who arrived in Mackay trailing 1-0 after Bangladesh stunned them by nine wickets in the opening Test in Darwin. Article Source: IANS
'Shubman Gill doesn't have enough faith in Kuldeep'
Former India cricketer Mohammed Kaif criticised captain Shubman Gill for not giving spinner Kuldeep Yadav enough longer spells during the first Test against Sri Lanka, suggesting a lack of faith.
Gill Tries To Fix His Spin Problems
Ahead of the second Test against Sri Lanka, the Indian cricket team underwent an intense net session in Colombo.
Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari: After unleashing the 149 kph toe-crushing yorker, breaking the middle stump during the UPT20 League, Kartik Tyagi attributed his tactical evolution to conversations with former South African international Dale Steyn. The sound of wood splintering at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium was both violent and poetic. Charging in during the second over against the Noida Kings, Tyagi unleashed a searing, toe-crushing yorker clocked at 149 kph. The ball crashed directly into Shaurya Singhs middle stump, snapping it clean out of the ground before trapping Aditya Sharma leg-before on the very next delivery. It was the defining moment of a ferocious spell. Defending a modest total of 116, Tyagi dismantled the opposition's top order with raw, hostile pace, finishing with match-winning figures of 3/12 to secure a 23-run DLS victory and the Player of the Match award for the table-topping Meerut Mavericks. When I worked with Dale Steyn, he emphasised how consistently I need to hit hard-length areas, Tyagi said. In T20 cricket, everyone talks endlessly about slower balls and yorkers, but for me, it is about how relentlessly I can hit a good length at this pace. That thought stays in my mind: the more I pound that length with genuine speed, the more effective I become. Speed has always been Tyagi's signature currency, but his recent consistency is staggering. Since the 2024 edition of the UP T20 League, the right-arm quick has delivered 151 balls exceeding the 140 kph mark, the highest tally by any bowler in the tournament. Yet, watching him touch nearly 150 kph today makes it easy to forget how close his body came to giving up on him altogether. Tyagis journey to this point was anything but linear. Between 2020 and early 2021, minor side strains repeatedly cut short his early IPL campaigns. By late 2021, chronic shin splints began to derail his rhythm, causing persistent calf and shin pain whenever he ramped up to full bowling workloads. The setbacks turned severe in 2022 when a freak leg fracture during a football warm-up on a Ranji Trophy match day sidelined him for months, compounded later by a pelvic bone injury. Over the next two years, the lingering effects of the shin splints and a fresh side strain right before the 2024 IPL season restricted him to sporadic appearances, culminating in a forced pause on his professional career by May 2024. Left unsold at the IPL 2025 auction, Tyagi used the time away to rebuild his body and remodel his mechanics from the foundation up. When I got injured, I kept understanding my body: what is best for me, how I should run, how I should load so that it helps me as a fast bowler, prevents injury, and what action allows me to bowl for long periods, Tyagi explained. First I identified that. Then, when I bowled, I gave myself an entire year, gradually increasing my workload day by day so that my muscles got used to the demands of bowling again. Tyagi targeted the UP T20 League as the proving ground for his second act. Leading the Meerut Mavericks' attack in the 2025 season, he snared 18 wickets in 11 matches, reminding scouts of his high-ceiling potential. Two years ago, I was almost completely out of cricket from everywhere, Tyagi recalled. I had it clear in my mind that if I had to make a comeback, the UP T20 League, which offers an IPL-like platform and environment, was where I needed to perform so people would take notice. I focused entirely on that last year, performed here, and got picked from it. This league helped me resurrect my career in that way. That resurgence earned him a Rs 30 lakh contract with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the IPL 2026 auction. Tyagi capitalised on the opportunity, staging a remarkable top-flight comeback to finish as KKR's leading wicket-taker and fifth overall on the season's Purple Cap leaderboard with 18 wickets in 13 matches. Beyond his own career arc, Tyagi is encouraged by Uttar Pradeshs broader fast-bowling ecosystem, praising the state association's scouting drives. That resurgence earned him a Rs 30 lakh contract with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the IPL 2026 auction. Tyagi capitalised on the opportunity, staging a remarkable top-flight comeback to finish as KKR's leading wicket-taker and fifth overall on the season's Purple Cap leaderboard with 18 wickets in 13 matches. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Seeing how fast bowlers were clocking in showed the depth of talent we have in UP. When boys come through trials like that and play on this stage, it motivates everyone that genuine effort gets rewarded. Article Source: IANS
India target first overseas Test series win in three years vs Sri Lanka
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Australia Lose 3 Wickets After Skittling Bangladesh For 64
Australia lost three quick wickets as Bangladesh fought back on day one of the second Test with the hosts 50-3 at tea after a Mitchell Starc masterclass skittled the visitors for just 64. Skipper Pat Cummins won the toss in Mackay and his bowlers feasted on a fine day, determined to bounce back from a shock nine-wicket loss in the first Test at Darwin. An irrepressible Starc was the destroyer in an incredible spell of swing and seam, taking five wickets in 22 balls during the morning session. Bangladesh reached lunch at 35-6 and lasted barely an hour after the break as Starc and Cummins mopped up. Only a last-wicket partnership of 25 between Taijul Islam (11 not out) and Shoriful Islam (14) took them past their lowest Test score of 43, against the West Indies in 2018. Starc ended with 6-12 and Cummins took 3-25. Australia started well in reply but then lost three wickets for 19 runs, leaving Steve Smith (six) and Cameron Green (one) with their work cut out. Matt Renshaw, recalled for the first time since 2023 when opener Jake Weatherald was axed after Darwin, failed to repay selectors' faith, gone for eight after edging Taskin Ahmed to Tanzid Hasan at third slip. Fellow opener Travis Head (22) was bowled by Shoriful who missed the first Test with an injury, before he repeated the feat with under-pressure Marnus Labuschagne (4), who was desperate for a big score. Australia made a stunning start when Starc removed Shadman Islam with the first ball of the day, tempting a leading edge that Green did well to hold in the gully. It was the fourth time the veteran left-armer has got a wicket with the maiden ball of a Test -- becoming the first player to do so -- and the ninth time he has achieved the feat in the opening over. The 36-year-old sent Bangladesh's other opener Tanzid packing with the first ball of his second over, caught at slip by Beau Webster, then trapped captain Najmul Hossain Shanto lbw with his next delivery. It left Bangladesh reeling at 3-9 in the third over. The experienced Mushfiqur Rahim fended off Starc's hat-trick ball, but he was unstoppable and grabbed his fourth wicket in his third over. This time, Mominul Haque was the victim in a similar dismissal to Shadman, undone by late swing to send a thick edge low to Green in the gully on nine. Webster dropped a sitter at slip off Starc in his fourth over, but Litton Das' luck ran out next ball, out lbw on review as the visitors slumped to 5-12. It was the 19th time Starc has taken five wickets in an innings and achieved in just 22 balls -- the sixth fastest of all-time. Starc holds the record after taking five in only 15 balls against the West Indies in 2025. Mushfiqur hung around for 41 balls but he had no answer when Cummins came on, bowled for five. Cummins struck again after lunch to dismiss Mehidy Hasan Miraz for 11, taken brilliantly by Webster in the slips, before Hazlewood took care of Hasan Mahmud (10) eight balls later. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Bangladesh moved past their lowest Test score as the tailenders hit out, before Starc fittingly wrapped it up with the wicket of Shoriful.
England vs Pakistan First Test: 3 Talking Points
England began Joe Root's second spell as full-time Test captain with a totally dominant innings and 103-run win over Pakistan at his Yorkshire home ground of Headingley on Friday. Three talking points that emerged from what was just England's third win in their last 11 Tests. Cox looks the part Any assessment of England's form at Headingley has to take account of arguably one of the weakest Pakistan teams in decades. But the manner in which Jordan Cox made a maiden Test fifty while batting in what has often been a problem position of number three for England was an encouraging sign for Root's men. It seemed as if Jacob Bethell was making the role his own only for the talented 22-year-old left-hander to be ruled out of the entire three-match series against Pakistan with a knee injury. Cox, however, made 73 in just 100 balls, including 14 fours, at Headingley, but without the kind of extravagant, and indeed reckless, shot-making that characterised England's ultra-aggressive Bazball approach under now retired captain Ben Stokes and sacked Test coach Brendon McCullum. Former England captain Michael Vaughan -- himself an elegant top-order batsman -- was among those impressed by the 25-year-old Cox. He just looked a player Vaughan told the BBC. He looks like he's got all the time and he played two or three shots that reminded me of (South Africa great) AB de Villiers. Pakistan's comical fielding no joke One of cricket's oldest truisms is if you want to know the state of a team, look at their fielding for this is the one aspect of the game, unlike batting or bowling, which can be improved as much by sheer hard work as raw talent. Pakistan's fielding at Headingley, however, was woeful, with one particularly farcical incident summing up their performance. Ali Usman lured Dan Lawrence down the pitch only for the ball to deflect off the England batsman's pad. Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha, fielding at slip, seemed more concerned by appealing for lbw than running out Lawrence. By the time Agha realised the chance was on, he let fly with a panicked throw straight into the rear of wicket-keeper Mohammad Rizwan, who was blocking the stumps. Pakistan then failed with an ensuing review of the lbw decision as Lawrence had been struck outside off stump. Several Pakistan fielders, meanwhile, tried to stop eventual boundaries by sticking out a boot rather than bending down, including left-arm spinner Usman whose five-wicket haul was a rare highlight for his side. There's no excuse for it, Usman admitted. We should put in more effort. There were lapses in the field today and it cost us runs. England's love affair with Leeds goes on England have now won seven Tests in a row at Headingley -- their longest current winning streak at any ground in the world. That sequence includes two wins over Australia yet, remarkably, Yorkshire's headquarters will not stage a Test when England's oldest rivals arrive for next year's Ashes series. The Leeds ground has effectively lost out to Hampshire's Rose Bowl, which will be making its Ashes debut. This is despite Headingley, one of world cricket's most storied venues, providing a pitch that is often favourable to England's seamers, with the crowd -- particularly on the old Western Terrace -- giving raucous support to the home side. I would love to play as many games as possible here, said local hero Root. It's a great Test match venue and a surface that provides brilliant Test cricket. It is hard to imagine Australia doing without a home Ashes Test at their Gabba fortress in Brisbane. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories As a player, you want to play at the grounds you have most success at as a team, said Root. I love playing here - as a Yorkshireman I have to say that from birth, so I'm glad it's the case.
Australia took on Bangladesh in the second and final Test of the ongoing series between the two sides. The teams locked horns at the Great Barrier Reef Arena, Mackay, from August 22nd, and Australia began the game by coming in to bowl first.
Bangladesh All Out For 64 In 2nd Test After Mitchell Starc Masterclass
A rampant Australia tore through the Bangladesh batting Saturday to dismiss them for just 64 on day one of the second Test with Mitchell Starc taking 6-12 after a bowling masterclass. Skipper Pat Cummins won the toss in Mackay and his bowlers feasted on a fine day, determined to bounce back from a shock nine-wicket loss in the first Test at Darwin. An irrepressible Starc was the destroyer in an incredible spell of swing and seam, taking five wickets in just 22 balls during the morning session to leave the visitors on the ropes. Bangladesh reached lunch at 35-6 and lasted barely an hour after the break as Starc, Cummins and Josh Hazlewood mopped up the tail. Only a last-wicket partnership of 25 between Taijul Islam (not out 11) and Shoriful Islam (14) took them past their lowest Test score of 43, against the West Indies in 2018. Australia made a stunning start when Starc removed Shadman Islam with the first ball of the day, tempting a leading edge that Cameron Green did well to hold in the gully. It was the fourth time the veteran left-armer has got a wicket with the maiden ball of a Test -- becoming the first player to do so -- and the ninth time he has achieved the feat in the opening over. The 36-year-old sent Bangladesh's other opener Tanzid Hasan packing with the first ball of his second over, caught at slip by Beau Webster, then trapped captain Najmul Hossain Shanto lbw with his next delivery. It left the visitors reeling at 3-9 in the third over. The experienced Mushfiqur Rahim fended off Starc's hat-trick ball, but he was unstoppable and grabbed his fourth wicket in his third over. This time, Mominul Haque was the victim in a similar dismissal to Shadman, undone by late swing to send a thick edge low to Green in the gully on nine. Webster dropped a sitter at third slip off Starc in his fourth over, but Litton Das' luck ran out next ball, out lbw on review as the visitors slumped to 5-12. It was the 19th time Starc has taken five wickets in an innings and achieved in just 22 balls -- the sixth fastest of all-time. Starc holds the record after taking five in only 15 balls in Jamaica against the West Indies in 2025. Mushfiqur hung around for 41 balls but he had no answer when Cummins came on, clean bowled for five. Cummins struck again in his first over after lunch to dismiss Mehidy Hasan Miraz for 11, taken brilliantly by Webster in the slips, before Hazlewood took care of Hasan Mahmud (10) eight balls later. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Bangladesh moved past their previous lowest score in Tests as the tailenders hit out, but the end was inevitable with Starc fittingly wrapping it up with the wicket of Shoriful.
Neeraj Chopra Impresses With 88.05m Throw At Lausanne Diamond League
Neeraj Chopra is back. The Indian javelin thrower showed his best performance of the season at the Lausanne Diamond League, throwing 88.05 m, just 9 cm short of Sri Lankan Rumesh Pathirage, who took first with 88.14 m. Though he did
DPL: East Delhi Riders Cruise To 7-wicket Win Over Outer Delhi Warriors
East Delhi Riders: An all-round performance helped East Delhi Riders register a comfortable seven-wicket win over Outer Delhi Warriors in the Delhi Premier League (DPL) 2026 fixture. East Delhi Riders produced an impressive bowling effort to bowl out Outer Delhi Warriors for 134 in 19.1 overs. Mayank Yadav, Simarjeet Singh and Ashish Meena led the attack and kept the Warriors under pressure throughout the innings. Outer Delhi Warriors struggled from the beginning and kept losing wickets at regular intervals. Their batting line-up failed to build any meaningful partnership, leaving them in deep trouble at 68/7. Harsh Tyagi tried to steady the innings and gave his team some hope with a fighting 36 off 33 balls. However, he received little support from the other end as the Warriors were eventually bowled out for 134. Mayank Yadav was the pick of the bowlers, finishing with excellent figures of 3/22 from his four overs. Ashish Meena also claimed three wickets while conceding 25 runs. Simarjeet Singh supported them well with two wickets for 20 runs in his four-over spell. Chasing 135, East Delhi Riders also faced some early trouble and lost a few wickets. However, Kavya Gupta and Vaibhav Baisla came together at the right time to take control of the chase. Mayank Yadav was the pick of the bowlers, finishing with excellent figures of 3/22 from his four overs. Ashish Meena also claimed three wickets while conceding 25 runs. Simarjeet Singh supported them well with two wickets for 20 runs in his four-over spell. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories The Riders reached the target comfortably to complete victory, with their bowlers setting up the win before the middle-order batters finished the job. Article Source: IANS
How Starc completed his five-wicket haul in 22 balls
The left-arm quick dismantled Bangladesh's top order on the opening day in Mackay
Starc rips through Bangladesh with five wickets in 22 balls
The visitors were in tatters at lunch on the opening day of the second Test after being asked to bat
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Australia vs Bangladesh Day 1: Starc takes five wickets in first four overs
The left-armer removed both Bangladesh openers, captain Najmul Hossain Shanto and wicketkeeper Litton Das, for ducks to leave Bangladesh at 12 for five.
Drastic Playing XI Call In 2nd Test Against Sri Lanka? India Coach Gives Blunt Verdict
Defending the struggling Kuldeep Yadav, India's spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule on Friday asserted that the left-arm wrist spinner is in the team management's scheme of things ahead of the second Test.
Starc's 5-Wicket Blitz Has Bangladesh Reeling In 2nd Test
Australian pacer Mitchell Starc delivered a devastating spell of swing bowling, taking five wickets in his first four overs against Bangladesh in the second Test. His performance left Bangladesh reeling at 12 for five, with both openers dismissed for ducks.
Australia bowl first on Mackay's Test debut; Shoriful in for Bangladesh
After surprising many by batting first in Darwin, Australia's captain went the opposite way in the second Test
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Sohail Khan Criticises Pakistan Pacers For Test Struggles
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Stone takes six as Nottinghamshire turn the tables on Surrey
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AUS vs BAN 2nd Test, Cricket Tips: Bangladesh stunned Australia in the first test in Darwin and recorded a historic win by nine wickets to take an unassailable 1-0 lead in the series. Nahid Rana and Tanzid Hasan played crucial roles in the win. Bangladesh will aim at the ultimate glory. They have a chance to become only the second Asian side in this century to beat Australia in Australia. The second test is scheduled to kick off at 5:30 AM IST on Saturday (August 22) at Great Barrier Reef Arena, Mackay. Pat Cummins and co. underestimated their opponent and took it casually. But they will come prepared this time to avoid an embarrassing whitewash at home. AUS vs BAN: Match Details Date : August 22-26, 2026 (Saturday-Wednesday) Time : 5:30 AM IST Venue : Great Barrier Reef Arena, Mackay AUS vs BAN: Live Streaming Details Indian fans can watch the live action of the second test on the Star Sports Networks. Fans can also watch the live stream on the Jio Hotstar app or website. AUS vs BAN: Head-to-Head in Tests Total Matches : 7 Australia : 5 Bangladesh : 2 No-result: 0 AUS vs BAN: Ground Pitch Report The wicket in Mackay has a good grass covering, which will aid the fast bowlers. It will be tough for the batters as they will swing and movement with the ball. Spinners will have a very limited role, but slow bowlers will get assistance in the last two days. The technique will be tested on the batters. AUS vs BAN: Possible XIs Australia : Matt Renshaw, Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, Steven Smith, Cameron Green, Alex Carey (wk), Beau Webster, Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood Bangladesh : Shadman Islam, Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Mominul Haque, Najmul Hossain Shanto (c), Litton Das (wk), Mushfiqur Rahim, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taijul Islam, Shoriful Islam, Taskin Ahmed, Hasan Mahmud AUS vs BAN: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Steve Smith played well in the first game, but Australia want a big innings from him. Tanzid Hasan plays in a way that puts the opposition under pressure. He will be key with the bat. Probable Best Bowler Josh Hazlewood and Hasan Mahmud showed their class in the first game; they will love bowling at this venue. Today Match Prediction : Australia lost the first game, but they are expected to bounce back. We predict Australia to win the second test. AUS vs BAN Match 2nd Test, Today Match AUS vs BAN, AUS vs BAN Prediction, AUS vs BAN Predicted XIs, Injury Update for Australia vs Bangladesh Match Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Disclaimer : The prediction or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.
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Pakistan move to bottom of WTC points table after shambolic defeat to England - Check full table
England, under new captain Joe Root, secured a dominant innings-and-103-run victory over Pakistan in the first Test at Headingley. Despite this, they remain seventh in the World Test Championship 2025-27 standings. Pakistan, meanwhile, moved to...
Pakistan Crumble For 135 To Suffer Innings Defeat Against England In First Test
ICC World Test Championship: Pakistan's batting woes deepened as they were bowled out for just 135 in their second innings to suffer an innings and 103 runs defeat against England in the opening Test of the series, with the hosts wrapping up a comprehensive victory inside three days. Pakistan, having scored only 171 in their first innings, could not resist another fierce session from England's pace attack, and Jofra Archer, Josh Tongue and Ollie Robinson between them took nine wickets as England secured a dominant win and thus obtained important points in the ICC World Test Championship 202527 cycle. Robinson was primarily responsible for Pakistan's failure and closed the match with the impressive figures of 8/80, earning him the award of Player of the Match. When Pakistan started their second innings they were facing a severe deficit since England had gained a 238-run lead in the first innings. The troubles of the visitors reappeared almost straight away when Archer took a wicket in his first over, getting Imam-ul-Haq. Shan Masood tried to launch a counter-attack with several boundaries, but England kept on applying pressure. Abdullah Shafique was then got out when he edged while defending, and Pakistan were in even greater difficulty before lunch. Following that period the situation worsened as Tongue broke up Pakistan's middle order, Saud Shakeel being the first to fall, then the England seamer got both Masood and Salman Agha in the same over and left Pakistan facing defeat. Although Mohammad Rizwan put up a certain amount of resistance with 41 runs, Robinson still managed to make several breakthroughs at the other end, and Gus Atkinson finally ended Rizwan's innings before Archer completed it by getting the last batter out in the 38th over. Previously Pakistan had been all out for 171 after they were asked to bat first, with Robinson securing 5/51 and Tongue taking 5/46. In reply England were headed by four half-centuries from their middle order, Jordan Cox scoring 73, Joe Root 66, Harry Brook 91 and Dan Lawrence 51. The joint effort enabled England to establish a lead of 238 runs, even though Ali Usman took 5 wickets for 95 runs for Pakistan. Archer was also helpful with the bat during England's first innings, having helped increase the lead to more than 200 on the third morning before Pakistan ended the innings with the wicket of Jamie Smith, who scored 25. The joint effort enabled England to establish a lead of 238 runs, even though Ali Usman took 5 wickets for 95 runs for Pakistan. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories The two teams will now play the second Test at Lord's, which will start on August 27. Article Source: IANS
England Thrash Pakistan In 1st Test, Make Victorious Start To Life After 'Bazball'
England launched their post-Bazball era with an innings and 103-run thrashing of Pakistan in the first Test at Headingley on Friday.
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Rabada, along with most of the frontline attack and both captains, was not named in the travelling squad for the tour of Namibia
Women's Asia Cup 2026: Esha Oza To Lead UAE, Chaiwai Named Thailand Skipper
Dubai International Stadium: Experienced all-rounder Esha Oza will captain a 15-member UAE squad in the eight-team Womens Asia Cup 2026, scheduled to begin at the Dubai International Stadium on August 28. The hosts have been placed in Group B alongside previous winners Bangladesh, Indonesia, and defending champions Sri Lanka. UAE will open their campaign against Sri Lanka on August 29, followed by clashes against Indonesia on September 4 and Bangladesh on September 8. All matches in the tournament will be played under lights, starting at 6:30 pm local time. The two semi-finals are slated for September 10 and 11, with the summit clash scheduled for September 13. Its the first time UAE will host the continental tournament. Both UAE and Thailand qualified for the main event via the 2026 ACC Premier Womens Cup, held in Malaysia in June. The selected squad features wicketkeeper-batter Theertha Satish alongside regular performers like Samaira Dharnidharka, Vaishnave Mahesh, and Indhuja Nandakumar. Former international cricketer Subha Venkataraman will serve as the head coach of the side, and is supported by assistant coach Shahzada Saleem, with Shyla Alam and Merin Saji named as strength and conditioning coach and physiotherapist respectively. Meanwhile, Naruemol Chaiwai will captain a 15-member Thailand squad in the tournament. Thailand are placed in Group A alongside Asian heavyweights and seven-time winners India, Pakistan, and regional qualifiers Hong Kong, China. The Thai setup features key core players like wicketkeeper-batter Nannapat Khoncharoenkai, top-order batter Nathakan Chantham, Chanida Sutthiruang, Thipatcha Putthawong, and Suleeporn Laomi. Meanwhile, Naruemol Chaiwai will captain a 15-member Thailand squad in the tournament. Thailand are placed in Group A alongside Asian heavyweights and seven-time winners India, Pakistan, and regional qualifiers Hong Kong, China. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Thailand Squad: Naruemol Chaiwai (captain), Nannapat Khoncharoenkai (wk), Nathakan Chantham, Chanida Sutthiruang, Suleeporn Laomi, Onnicha Kamchomphu, Thipatcha Putthawong, Phannita Maya, Aphisara Suwanchonrathi, Sunida Chaturongrattana, Chayanisa Phengpaeng, Nannaphat Chaihan, Koranit Suwanchonrathi, Thanrada Seesawan, and Naomi Hamilton. Article Source: IANS
Tongue, Robinson, Archer lead the way as England seal three-day innings win
Wickets shared among seamers again as Pakistan succumb to defeat in just 1053 balls
UPT20 2026: Kartik Tyagi's Fiery Spell Guides Meerut Mavericks To DLS Win Over Noida Kings
Spinners Zeeshan Ansari: Fast bowler Kartik Tyagi bowled a blistering spell of express pace to help Meerut Mavericks defend a low total and secure a 23-run victory via the DLS method over Noida Kings in a rain-truncated UPT20 League match here on Friday. After being bundled out for a modest 116 in 19.3 overs, Meerut reduced Noida Kings to 51/6 in 10.2 overs before persistent rain halted play. With the DLS par score being 74, Noida fell short by 23 runs when the match was eventually called off. Opting to bat first, Meerut Mavericks suffered a top-order collapse, slumping to 35/5 inside seven overs after pacer Kunal Tyagi struck twice in the opening over to remove Swastik Chikara and Rituraj Sharma. Wickets continued to fall at regular intervals, including skipper Rinku Singh, before wicketkeeper-batter Akshay Dubey waged a lonely battle with a gritty 43 off 41 balls to take Meerut past the 100-run mark. Tyagi finished as the stand-out bowler for Noida Kings, returning impressive figures of 4-16, while Prashant Veer chipped in with 3-17. Defending 116, Tyagi ripped through the Noida top-order with sheer pace, consistently clocking above 145 kph. In his second over, the pacer castled Shaurya Singh before trapping Aditya Sharma leg-before on consecutive deliveries, clocking speeds up to 149 kph. He returned in his next over to remove Noida skipper Madhav Kaushik. Spinners Zeeshan Ansari and Yash Garg maintained the pressure in the middle overs before heavy rain intervened. Defending 116, Tyagi ripped through the Noida top-order with sheer pace, consistently clocking above 145 kph. In his second over, the pacer castled Shaurya Singh before trapping Aditya Sharma leg-before on consecutive deliveries, clocking speeds up to 149 kph. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Brief Scores: Meerut Mavericks 116 all out in 19.3 overs (Akshay Dubey 43; Kunal Tyagi 4-16, Prashant Veer 3-17) beat Noida Kings 51/6 in 10.2 overs (Kartik Tyagi 3-12) by 23 runs (via DLS method). Article Source: IANS
Kerala Cricket League | Vinil, Azharuddeen fashion Ripples facile win
Joe Root's England return to winning ways as hosts hammer Pakistan to win first Test at Headingley
England have not won a single Test series in the World Test Championship since their away win against New Zealand in December 2024. Since then, they hosted India and New Zealand and played the Ashes...
Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium: Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichands coach Sumeeth Reddy said the Indian pairs historic entry into the BWF World Championships semifinals was the result of months of careful preparation, patience and resilience, insisting that the assured medal was not the end of their journey. Treesa and Gayatri pulled off a dramatic comeback against the fourth-seeded pair Jia Yi Fan and Zhang Shu Xian, overcoming a game deficit to win the match 16-21, 21-15, 21-13 in the quarterfinals at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium in New Delhi on Friday. India's victory has secured their first women's doubles medal at the World Championships since the bronze medal won by Jwala Gutta and Ashwini Ponnappa in 2011. Reddy stated that the preparations for the home World Championships had started about 45 to 50 days earlier and gave credit to coach Pullela Gopichand for having carefully planned the campaign. It started around 45-50 days before; obviously, this was a big stage, especially happening in India and since the first day, rather than just thinking about the World Championship, it was one day at a time and also huge credit to Gopi sir that he could plan and I think he is one of the greatest coaches who can plan such things so early and deal with them on a daily basis and it was a huge learning for me also, how to be in that specific area and do the right things at the right time, Reddy told reporters. The Indians lost the opening game 16-21 after China made a strong start, but Reddy said the team had been waiting for a small lead to release Treesa and Gayatri from the pressure. I think we were waiting from the first game that if our girls can get a couple of points lead, I think they would just free up and play their best game and that actually happened at 10-7 when the opponents were leading 10-7. I think from there when things changed at 11-10 and 13-10 is when they just could play the free game. We already had a discussion in the first game that just a two-point lead would change the whole scenario. Treesa and Gayatri responded by taking the second game 21-15 before dominating the decider 21-13. Reddy said the emotional significance of the victory was evident immediately afterwards. Yeah, I mean even once the match finished, Gayatri just came and was seeing Gopi sir, I could see they were very very emotional, especially the hardship they had to go through and they wanted to make a point to prove that they are not just here to participate but go further and try to win the tournament. Despite the historic medal, Reddy said there would be no major changes to their preparation for the semi-final. There is nothing special planning, I think we will do the same thing what we have been doing yesterday or day before, just think about what we need to do, what the opponents would be doing and just stick to that. The coach also backed the pair to remain focused despite criticism surrounding their partnership. I dont think they would be discussing about a third person talking about them which is not fair as well, I think whatever they feel they need to convey each other, not any other person and see, even the best pairing in the world would have some kind of criticism, Reddy said. I think the better thing to do is just think if something has gone right, just try to repeat that and if something hasnt gone right, just try to rectify and change it, thats the only thing. Reddy also highlighted the mental strength Treesa and Gayatri showed while dealing with injuries and difficult periods in their careers. I think one of the thing is they were patient enough to digest all those tough days, that is one thing and secondly they never had a rest day, even if they were injured, they used to just ice or probably just go back and watch some matches so that they are motivated to do better in the next tournament, he said. I think its really tough not being able to play and see your colleagues play on court is a tough thing, but after that how you deal with those things and do the right stuff is very important and I am sure they have done it, that is the reason why they are here, standing here with an assured medal. I think one of the thing is they were patient enough to digest all those tough days, that is one thing and secondly they never had a rest day, even if they were injured, they used to just ice or probably just go back and watch some matches so that they are motivated to do better in the next tournament, he said. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Yeah, I think at least they are assured of something, but its not done yet, they will go with full force tomorrow as well. Article Source: IANS
Exclusion Of Northern Venues For 2027 Ashes 'bizarre', Says Mark Butcher
Wales Cricket Board: Former England batter Mark Butcher has labelled the decision to leave iconic grounds Headingley and Old Trafford, based in the northern part of the country, off the schedule for the 2027 men's Ashes series as extraordinary and bizarre. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has assigned the five-match high-profile Test series against Australia to Trent Bridge, Lord's, Edgbaston, the Kia Oval, and Southampton's Utilita Bowl, which will host its maiden men's Ashes Test. The schedule has drawn sharp criticism from fans and former players over the lack of geographical balance. I think anybody but the most partisan Hampshire cricket supporter would recognise that in a sport and particularly in a series like the Ashes, where the interest in the game is at its peak at any point over a four-year cycle, that the game being marketed as a game for everybody needs to have some representation and needs to have a game in the north. Whether that's here at Headingley or whether it's at Old Trafford, that's a point for the bean counters to decide, or whoever's turn that might be. I find it extraordinary that there'll be no Ashes cricket up in the north of England beyond Trent Bridge next year. It's bizarre, Butcher told Sky Sports. Both Headingley and Old Trafford are scheduled to host Ashes Tests in 2031, but the gap in 2027 has left many frustrated. Of course, I have a certain affinity with this ground [Headingley] and with Old Trafford as a player. I also think that for visiting teams, there are five or six grounds that have an enormous amount of history when it comes to Ashes cricket. Sadly, the Utilita Bowl is not one of them, added Butcher. Headingley will host a womens Ashes between England and Australia next year as part of a multi-format series, although it is not scheduled to host another men's Test match after this week's clash with Pakistan until 2029. England batter Harry Brook also expressed sadness over the 2027 Ashes not being played in northern venues. Both Headingley and Old Trafford are scheduled to host Ashes Tests in 2031, but the gap in 2027 has left many frustrated. Of course, I have a certain affinity with this ground [Headingley] and with Old Trafford as a player. I also think that for visiting teams, there are five or six grounds that have an enormous amount of history when it comes to Ashes cricket. Sadly, the Utilita Bowl is not one of them, added Butcher. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories I personally love playing here (Headingley). It's a great venue. It's one of my favourites, if not my favourite ground to bat on as well. It (lack of northern Test) is disappointing, but we don't make those decisions. The hierarchy make them and we just get told where to play, Brook noted ahead of day threes play against Pakistan. Article Source: IANS
Kate Cross to retire at end of season
Lancashire's former England seamer to hang up boots after two-decade association with county
Joe Root breaks Steve Smith's all-time Test record in first Test against Pakistan in Headingley
Joe Root broke Steve Smiths record for most catches in Test cricket history. The England Test captain claimed his 219th during Pakistans second innings against England at Headingley and with that, overtook Smiths tally of...
Saurav's Unbeaten Half-century Guides Barpeta Braves To Assam Premier League Final
Assam Premier League: Saurav Mousum Dihingia carried his bat with a composed, unbeaten half-century as Barpeta Braves edged Dibrugarh Warriors by five wickets in a tense semi-final to book their place in the final of the 2026 Assam Premier League (APL) at the ACA Stadium here on Friday. Chasing a target of 135 runs for victory, Barpeta overcame early hiccups to wrap up the proceedings in 19.1 overs, thanks to opener Saurav's 63 not out off 53 balls, which included six boundaries and a six. He was well supported by middle-order batter Abhilash Maurya, who scored a crucial 37 off 29 deliveries with three fours and a hit over the fence. The duo stitched together a decisive 74-run partnership for the fifth wicket to steer their side to victory and book their spot in the title clash. Earlier, opting to bat first, Dibrugarh Warriors were restricted to 134/7 in their allotted 20 overs. Ayush Agarwal top-scored with a quickfire 45 not out off 29 balls, studded with two fours and three sixes, while Diwiz Pathak (27 off 17 balls) and Nasir Ullah (26 off 20 deliveries) chipped in with useful contributions. He was well supported by middle-order batter Abhilash Maurya, who scored a crucial 37 off 29 deliveries with three fours and a hit over the fence. The duo stitched together a decisive 74-run partnership for the fifth wicket to steer their side to victory and book their spot in the title clash. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Brief Scores: Dibrugarh Warriors 134/7 in 20 overs (Ayush Agarwal 45 not out, Diwiz Pathak 27, Nasir Ullah 26; Pranjal Paul 2-27) lost to Barpeta Braves 137/5 in 19.1 overs (Saurav Mousum Dihingia 63 not out, Abhilash Maurya 37; Sidhartha Sankar Baruah 2-27, Doikho Das 2-33) by five wickets. Article Source: IANS
IPL Winner, Who Now Plays For Portugal, Slams Century In T20 WC Qualifier
Former Australia cricketer Moises Henriques has switched his international allegiance to Portugal, and brought immediate results for his new nation.
Joe Root Reclaims Record For Most Test Catches From Steve Smith
Joe Root: England cricketer Joe Root took back the record of completing most catches in Test cricket during the first Test against Pakistan on Friday. While he held the record after going past the previous holder Rahul Dravid, Australia star Steve Smith had briefly levelled him to jointly own the illustrious milestone. Root took back the throne in the second innings of the first Test in Leeds. Root, who has been reinstated as England Test captain, did not take a catch in the first innings, but he grabbed one early in the second innings when the visitors came out to bat again. Root palmed Pakistan opener Azan Awais' catch, who walked for just nine in the fourth over as Jofra Archer removed both the openers after having nicked Imam-ul-Haq for a duck. This was Root's 219th catch in Tests, which saw him go clear of Smith for most catches. The Aussie icon has palmed 218 catches after he took three in the first innings of the recently concluded Darwin Test against Bangladesh. Behind the duo, India legend Dravid stays in third with 210 catches, while Sri Lanka great Mahela Jayawardene had taken 205 catches in his career. South Africa icon Jacques Kallis ended his career with 200 grabs. Talking about Awais' dismissal, England laid a trap to dismiss the left-handed batter. They added a leg slip, but Archer bowled a couple of balls outside off before firing a fuller one onto the body as Awais flicked it for Root to grab it at leg slip. Archer had previously removed Imam in the second over, outfoxing him with a ball that was not as short as the Pakistani opener thought, as he gloved it behind for Jamie Smith to grab it. Behind the duo, India legend Dravid stays in third with 210 catches, while Sri Lanka great Mahela Jayawardene had taken 205 catches in his career. South Africa icon Jacques Kallis ended his career with 200 grabs. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories England's strong reply with the bat came after their bowlers - Josh Tongue and Ollie Robinson - had shared five wickets each after bowling Pakistan out for 171 in the first innings. The two bowlers had famously cut the ball in two halves after their five-fers. Article Source: IANS
My temperament is suitable for red-ball cricket: Sanat
England Pacer Kate Cross To Retire From Professional Cricket At The End Of 2026 Season
Lancashire Chair Dame Sarah Storey: Veteran England fast bowler Kate Cross has announced that she will retire from all professional cricket at the end of the 2026 season, and bring the curtains down on an illustrious career spanning over two decades. Kate, 34, who made her international debut in 2013 and earned 102 caps for England across all three formats while taking 140 wickets. This summer is going to be my last playing professional cricket. Its incredibly hard to imagine ever saying goodbye to playing the sport that has been such a huge part of my life and shaped me into the person I am today. But, the final chapter is in sight. I feel so fortunate to have had the opportunity to play the game I love professionally and get to do it at the highest level. But Im even more fortunate to have met the people I have along the way. I have memories that will last a lifetime, which Ill forever be thankful for. Im so grateful for the journey I have had in cricket and although I have a few more games to play and so many things I would like to say, for now Id just like to thank each and every one of you who has supported me and made it all possible, wrote Kate in a statement on her social media accounts on Friday. Starting her journey at Heywood Cricket Club, Kate made her senior county debut for Lancashire at just 13 in 2005 and became the first female player to enter the Lancashire Academy a year later. She went on to take 239 wickets for Lancashire across all formats and regional setups, including Thunder and Lancashire Thunder in the Kia Super League. A key highlight of her international career came on her Test debut in Perth in early 2014, where her match figures of 6-70 helped England retain the Ashes in Australia. Later that year, she was among the initial 18 players awarded groundbreaking central contracts by the ECB. In 2024, Cross reached the milestone of 400 career wickets across First-Class, List A, and T20 cricket, and reached a career-high ranking of world number two in the ICC ODI bowling rankings before leading England as captain during their white-ball tour of Ireland. Kate added another feather to her cap in 2025 by becoming only the eighth bowler to claim 100 ODI wickets for England while helping Lancashire secure a domestic double - the Vitality T20 County Cup and Metro Bank One-Day Cup - alongside winning The Hundred title with the Northern Superchargers. Lancashire Chair Dame Sarah Storey said, Kate has made an incredible contribution to both Lancashire and England Women over the last two decades and, on behalf of everyone at the Club, I'd like to congratulate her on an outstanding career. It is difficult to put into words the impact Kate has had on the women's game in Lancashire. From making her senior county debut at just 13 to becoming an England international, she has been an outstanding player and an exceptional role model, inspiring generations of young players across the North West. I know how much it has meant to Kate to represent the Red Rose for so many years, as well as wearing the Three Lions. She has also remained incredibly connected to the recreational game, particularly through her relationship with Heywood Cricket Club and her work with the Lancashire Cricket Foundation. Kate is a true Lancashire legend who has set the standard for those coming through and should be incredibly proud of the legacy she has created. Achieving a double, in her penultimate season as a pro, is incredibly special and a rare feat across all sport, and Kate can be rightly proud of the mark she has left on Lancashire Cricket, both on and off the field. Everyone at the Club is immensely proud of her achievements, and we wish her every success and happiness for the next chapter. David Thorley, Director of Womens Cricket at Lancashire, commented, On behalf of our playing group and staff, I would like to thank Kate for her commitment and unwavering dedication to the Club. Kate has played such an important role in driving the day-to-day standards here at Lancashire Cricket. She has been an integral part of the dressing room culture and has consistently set an example through her professionalism, work ethic and commitment to the team. She will undoubtedly be a huge loss to us, both on and off the field. David Thorley, Director of Womens Cricket at Lancashire, commented, On behalf of our playing group and staff, I would like to thank Kate for her commitment and unwavering dedication to the Club. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Congratulations to Kate on an incredible career. We wish her all the very best for life after professional cricket and hope she looks back on her time at Lancashire with immense pride. Article Source: IANS
Joe Root Creates History with Record 219th Catch in Tests
England Test captain Joe Root has surpassed Steve Smith to become the leading fielder in Test cricket with 219 catches, and also equalled Sachin Tendulkar's record for the most fifties in the longest format with his 68th half-century.
ACB In Talks With BCCI To Advance Dates For Upcoming T20Is Between India And Afghanistan
The Afghanistan Cricket Board: The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) is in discussions with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to potentially alter the dates of the upcoming three-match T20I series between the two nations. As per the original schedule, the three T20Is are to be played on September 13, 15 and 17 respectively at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi. But the ACB is seeking to move the games to September 11, 13 and 14 respectively. The move comes with an eye on potential boost in venue turnout and television viewership, especially with Ganesh Chaturthi coming on September 14. Afghanistan will be hosting India in a men's bilateral T20I series, though the venue on this occasion is ironically Indias national capital. ACB has made the gesture and is in discussion with the BCCI. We should have a formal nod by Monday. 14th is a high possibility for one of the three matches. The rest of the schedule will depend on the planning and logistics between DDCA, BCCI and ACB. We will share officially once the final revised schedule is out, as the discussions are still ongoing, Bhairav Shanth, co-founder of ITW Universe, which holds the rights for the T20I series, told IANS on Friday. Afghanistan will be hosting India in a men's bilateral T20I series, though the venue on this occasion is ironically Indias national capital. ACB has made the gesture and is in discussion with the BCCI. We should have a formal nod by Monday. 14th is a high possibility for one of the three matches. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories This is Afghanistan's call, not our call. They are hosting the matches as they don't have a ground in their country to host international games right now. Thats why they have come to India to host this series. A call on this will come from ACB, said a BCCI official. Article Source: IANS
Usman Ali ends 54-year wait with five-wicket haul in first Test against England in Leeds
Ali Usman produced a standout spell for Pakistan in the first Test against England at Headingley. The spinner claimed a five-wicket haul as the hosts were bundled out for 409 runs, after securing an advantage of 238 runs. Usman finished with 5/95, placing him in a notable group of visiting spinners.
There's No Trust: R Ashwin Hits Bullseye Over India Star's Situation In Test Team
R Ashwin explained that the player's current situation in the team reflects a lack of trust from the management.
Women's DPL: North Delhi Beat East Delhi By Nine Wickets In Campaign Opener
North Delhi Strikers: North Delhi Strikers made a winning start to their Womens Delhi Premier League (DPL) 2026 campaign, defeating East Delhi Riders by nine wickets with more than five overs to spare here on Friday. Put into bat, East Delhi Riders struggled to score freely against a disciplined North Delhi bowling attack and were restricted to 101/8 in their allotted 20 overs. The Riders were in early trouble after losing two wickets for just 17 runs. Vanshika Lila and Sonakshi attempted to steady the innings and added 30 runs for the third wicket, giving East Delhi some hope of building a competitive total. However, Lilas dismissal in the 10th over changed the momentum once again. She scored 26 off 24 balls before being dismissed, after which East Delhi lost wickets at regular intervals. The Riders were unable to establish another meaningful partnership and their scoring rate remained under control throughout the latter stages of the innings. North Delhis bowlers maintained pressure and restricted East Delhi to a modest total. Nazma led the bowling effort with an impressive spell, claiming 2/15 from her four overs. Reshika Beniwal also picked up two wickets while conceding 25 runs. Apeksha Anand was particularly economical, returning figures of 1/10 from three overs. Chasing 102 for victory, North Delhi Strikers lost Upasana Yadav early but did not allow the early setback to affect their momentum. Shivi Sharma and Archana took charge of the chase and attacked the East Delhi bowling with confidence. The pair combined for an unbeaten 92-run partnership for the second wicket, taking the game firmly away from the Riders. Chasing 102 for victory, North Delhi Strikers lost Upasana Yadav early but did not allow the early setback to affect their momentum. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories The Strikers eventually reached the target comfortably, finishing on 102/1 to seal a convincing nine-wicket victory with plenty of deliveries remaining. Article Source: IANS
No Bangladesh Premier League This Year? Tamim Iqbal Reveals Rs 31 Crore Loss In Big Verdict
Tamim Iqbal said the BPL has caused losses adding up to 40 crore Bangladeshi Taka (Rs 31 crore) in the past two seasons.
Test Cricket Cannot Be A 'finishing School' For Red-ball Batters, Says Daryll Cullinan
Former South Africa: Former South Africa cricketer Daryll Cullinan has warned that modern Test cricket is being forced to act as a finishing school for players ill-equipped to face the moving red ball and pointed to the decay of traditional first-class apprenticeship and the misplaced copying of Australia batter Steve Smith's unconventional style. The old apprenticeship offered a safeguard we have not properly replaced. Theory never got the final vote there; the game did. A batter could arrive with almost any method he liked, and over a long season the ball would reveal whether the method survived serious examination. Without that kind of process, Test cricket is left to be the finishing school, which it should never be. The school before a batter gets to the top is simply not good enough now, the way it was in the past, Cullinan wrote in his column for Cricinfo on Friday. He also noted that legendary batters developed their judgment through rigorous domestic stints, particularly in English county cricket, where varying conditions forced batters to figure out structural solutions to line and seam movement. Cullinan also criticized modern coaching for over-relying on biomechanics, academic language, and trying to replicate Australia star Steve Smith's unique technique without understanding its nuances. Enter Steve Smith, the chief influencer. Few batters have challenged convention as successfully, and still scored as heavily against the best bowling in the world as he has. The mistake was assuming what worked for Smith should become a template for everyone else. Smith understood his own method intimately and adjusted it constantly to the bowler and the conditions in front of him. An elite player proving something can work does not prove that everyone should be taught it. Smith's greatness has duped a whole generation of coaches and players - which is a tribute to his genius, he added. Emphasising that technical fixes cannot be learned under high-pressure Test matches, Cullinan stressed the need to restore challenging domestic cricket playing environments for young batters. That old finishing school is largely gone now, and I do not expect it to come back. But the lesson it taught still holds true. The great players were not built by removing difficulty from their path. They were built by spending enough time, facing enough failure and enough real consequence, to work out for themselves what actually did the job. Emphasising that technical fixes cannot be learned under high-pressure Test matches, Cullinan stressed the need to restore challenging domestic cricket playing environments for young batters. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories If we don't, we will continue to see players come and go, and teams keep looking for continuity, excellence and a winning culture. Otherwise, let's be honest about what a good performance against the moving ball actually is now. An anomaly, not a reflection of anything built to last, and a winning result for the team on the right side of luck, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
Russel Arnold Backs Sri Lanka's Balance, Rules Out Adding Third Spinner For Second Test vs India
Former Sri Lanka all-rounder Russel Arnold believes the hosts may struggle to add another frontline spinner to their playing XI for the second Test against India, as doing so could upset the team's overall balance.
India spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule has backed Kuldeep Yadav ahead of the second Test against Sri Lanka. The star spinner struggled to live up to expectations in the Galle Test, after which some of...
Bangladesh Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto Not Thinking About History Ahead Of Mackay Test
History books will look to add another chapter of glory when Bangladesh take on Australia in the second Test of the series on Saturday, as the Asian team can complete their first Test series win Down Under.
1st Test: England bowled out for 409; grab huge lead vs Pakistan
Jofra Archer's cameo helped England post 409 in their first innings as they grabbed a huge lead on Day 3 of the first Test against Pakistan at Lord's on Friday.1
Ex-batter Hashan Tillakaratne Appointed Batting Coach Of Sri Lanka Senior Men's Programme
National High Performance Center: Former Sri Lanka captain and 1996 Mens ODI World Cup winner Hashan Tillakaratne has been appointed as the batting coach of the senior men's national program, Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) announced on Friday. The 59-year-old left-handed batter, who scored 8, 334 international runs across 83 Tests and 200 ODIs from 1989 to 2004, officially assumed his new role on August 20. His contract runs till December 31, 2027. Sri Lanka Cricket wishes to announce the appointment of Hashan Tillakaratne as the batting coach of the senior men's program. He will be based at the National High Performance Center of the SLC and will work with the national players as part of the Senior Mens Program. The former World Cup winner previously served as the batting coach of the Sri Lanka mens national team and the head coach of the Sri Lanka womens national team. He also has served as the head coach of the Bangladesh Womens National Team. Tillakaratne represented Sri Lanka from 1989 to 2003, playing 83 Test matches and 200 ODIs and accumulating more than 8,200 international runs across the two formats. His appointment came into effect on 20th August 2026 and will continue until 31st December 2027, said SLC in its statement on Friday. The former World Cup winner previously served as the batting coach of the Sri Lanka mens national team and the head coach of the Sri Lanka womens national team. He also has served as the head coach of the Bangladesh Womens National Team. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Following his playing career, in which he captained Sri Lanka in 11 Tests, Tillakaratne served as a national selector and worked with various senior, U-19, and women's setups and completed a recent coaching stint in the United States of America (USA). Article Source: IANS
Sairaj Bahutule backed Kuldeep Yadav to make an impact in the second Test against Sri Lanka, insisting the wrist-spinner remains a key part of the teams plans
Sri Lanka face big selection dilemma ahead of India Test
Former Sri Lanka all-rounder Russel Arnold believes the hosts will struggle to add another frontline spinner to their playing XI for the second Test against India without upsetting the team's overall balance, especially given their batting struggles.
Aiming To Get Back Into Australia Squad Across All Formats: Liam Scott
Big Bash League: Having experienced the feeling of being in international cricket during Australia's white-ball tour of Bangladesh earlier this year, rising all-rounder Liam Scott said he believes he is good enough to play for the national team across all three formats in future and is eager to get into the set-up again. Scott made his ODI debut in Dhaka, where he picked two wickets, after having a stellar 2025/26 domestic season, where he was named the Sheffield Shield player of the year with 496 runs and 23 wickets, while also amassing 310 runs in the Big Bash League for Adelaide Strikers. I think now I've had that taste. I just want to get back there and try and play as much cricket as I can for Australia. For me (there's) little elements of keep getting better against spin, opportunities to score... trying to score 360 and a bit of power-hitting stuff as well. Those sort of things I've tried to add to my game a little bit. Just being in different conditions, I think hopefully when I get the opportunity or if I get the opportunity to go back and play in those conditions, I feel as though I'm well-equipped and can adapt a bit quicker than probably what I did when I was over there, Scott was quoted as saying by cricket.com.au on Friday. Following a brief county cricket stint with Gloucestershire, Scott, who bats right-handed and bowls medium pace, said he has been making technical tweaks to refine his overall game. Bowling-wise (it's) just little technical stuff that has allowed me to maybe pick up a little bit of pace. In saying that, I feel like what I've got is good enough, so if I get that opportunity again, I'm looking forward to making the most of it, he added. With Australia entering a packed 12-month schedule comprising a minimum of 20 Tests alongside several white-ball series, Scott feels national selection opportunities can open up anytime for him. There's a few guys that are getting a tad older rather than getting younger, so there's probably going to be change and opportunities at some stage. There's a lot of Test cricket and in saying that, there's a lot of other cricket as well. One-day cricket (and) T20 cricket, so there's no doubt there'll be opportunities in some space. As a player and as cricketer, it's a pretty brutal game and you can't get too far ahead of yourself because as soon as you do that, something slips and you're back on the drawing board. Hopefully, I'm playing good at the right time, and I think timing is everything. If you're making runs and taking wickets when you need to, then you're obviously in the shop window, so hopefully that's me, he added. As a player and as cricketer, it's a pretty brutal game and you can't get too far ahead of yourself because as soon as you do that, something slips and you're back on the drawing board. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories But with such a strong squad, any player that comes in can really help win games committing for the state and I think that's no different this year. We've added some more players which I think can play a crucial role in going back-to-back to-back, so everyone here has one goal, and that's to win trophies for South Australia, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
Skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto: Bangladesh are awaiting fitness clearance for opening batter Tanzid Hasan Tamim and veteran wicketkeeper batter Mushfiqur Rahim ahead of the second Test match against Australia in Mackay. Skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto is hopeful that the duo will get the nod from the medical team, but will have to wait before making a final call on Tanzid. The Southpaw Tanzid hit a masterful century in the first Test in Darwin, but missed the batting session in Mackay on Thursday due to neck stiffness, which casted doubts over his participation in the second game. However, skipper Shanto revealed that the opener batted on Friday after completing his scan. Meanwhile, Mushfiqur picked up a finger injury while putting in the hard yards in the nets on Thursday. Mushfiqur bhai is doing well so far. Tamim also batted today. Overall, I think we will be able to make a good decision tomorrow morning, Shanto told the media on the eve of the second Test. I have an idea [about the playing XI], but I'll take another look tomorrow morning. However, the skipper noted that the final call on Tanzid will be taken only on the match day. As far as Tanzid is concerned, he batted today, and that is a positive sign. But in medical terms, we want to observe him a little more until tomorrow morning. Hopefully he will be fine. But we have all kinds of options. So I don't think there will be much of a problem, he added. Shanto also confirmed that left-arm seamer Shoriful Islam is fine and healthy, which means he can slot back into the team for the Mackay Test. However, whether the visitors will leave out the left-arm spinner Taijul Islam for him is anyone's guess. Shoriful is fine, healthy. He is bowling well. I hope he will do something good if he gets the chance, said Shanto. I think the bowlers will get a little help because of the wind. The swing might get a little extra. If the bowlers can use the wind, it will definitely be an added advantage for the bowlers. Shanto revealed that the composition of the squad gives him all the choices to pick from, with five seamers and two spinners present. The wicket looks good. Of course, the practice wicket we practiced on had a bit more bounce. All five pace bowlers in our squad are ready. The positive side is that the two spinners we have bowl well in any conditions. I think, since we have a little more time, we will take another look at the wicket in the morning and make whatever decision is best for the team, said Shanto. I have said many times that the spin attack we have is very experienced and can bowl in any condition. They know how to bowl in these conditions. With the kind of spinners we have in the team, we have the opportunity to play with three pacers and two spin bowlers. Shanto revealed that the composition of the squad gives him all the choices to pick from, with five seamers and two spinners present. The wicket looks good. Of course, the practice wicket we practiced on had a bit more bounce. All five pace bowlers in our squad are ready. The positive side is that the two spinners we have bowl well in any conditions. I think, since we have a little more time, we will take another look at the wicket in the morning and make whatever decision is best for the team, said Shanto. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Bangladesh stunned Australia in Darwin to mark their first-ever win in Test cricket Down Under. The Bangla Tigers put up a stellar show with Hasan Mahmud and Mehidy Hasan Miraz leading the way with the ball and Tanzid scoring the crucial century in the first innings. But Shanto said the win is now history, and the team now puts its focus on the second Test. I think it's done. The Darwin win is over now. Now we have to play good cricket for five days again. It's very important for us to do well in this Test match. We have to do well again against this bowling and batting attack, he said. Article Source: IANS
India vs Sri Lanka Tests: Visitors brave the heat in Colombo nets ahead of 2nd Test
India stepped up preparations for the second Test amid sweltering conditions in Colombo, with Shubman Gill unleashing some big hits during the practice session
England vs Pakistan 1st Test Day 3 Live Score Updates
England vs Pakistan 1st Test Day 3 Live Score Updates
'Kuldeep is in the scheme of things, one match does not define him'
India's spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule defended Kuldeep Yadav's performance in the first Test, stating he remains in the team's plans despite a modest outing.
Ex-Pakistan PM Imran Khan Taken Back To Jail After Hospital Checks
Former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan was transferred back to jail on Friday, authorities said, hours after the popular politician was taken to hospital for court-ordered medical checks. The Supreme Court ordered on Tuesday that Khan, 73, be taken to the private Shifa International Hospital in the capital Islamabad for treatment, after his lawyers filed a petition over health concerns. The ex-cricket captain and his wife Bushra Bibi, who is also his spiritual guide, were both sentenced late last year to 17 years in prison in a case Khan argues was politically motivated. Information Minister Attaullah Tarar wrote on X that Khan was taken to a public hospital instead of Shifa, blaming the security situation caused by supporters at the private clinic. A team of qualified doctors, including an ophthalmologist, a cardiologist and a physician, conducted a detailed examination of him and declared him medically fit, Tarar said. After the completion of this entire process, he was transferred back to Adiala Jail. Provincial MP Sohail Afridi, a senior leader in Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, criticised the handling of the hospital visit. The authorities don't even take the court seriously, Afridi told a news conference in Islamabad. This is against the whole judicial system, he added, saying the party would file a contempt of court case. Hundreds of police, some wielding sticks, were deployed near Shifa late on Thursday, with roads leading to the hospital cordoned off ahead of the expected transfer. Dozens of supporters had waited outside the hospital. The court had warned against public gatherings on the hospital grounds or the use of information about Khan's health for political gain, cautioning that any breaches could lead to the order being reversed. The next court hearing was set for September 16. - 'Torture' - The former prime minister received eye treatment at the same public hospital earlier this year, with his family and lawyer saying at the time that he had lost most of the vision in his right eye. Khan's sister Uzma Khan, a medical doctor, was present during Friday's examination. She told reporters at the same news conference Afridi spoke at that her brother kept saying, 'I am not OK. I have no books, no human contact'. Only his eye was checked, nothing else, she added. We are not satisfied with the treatment. The hypertension is due to the lack of human contact. Solitary confinement is torture, and Khan has been subjected to it for the past 10 months. Khan's personal physician, Faisal Sultan, whom the court said would be involved with the medical checks, told the news conference he had waited at Shifa hospital during the night before being told Khan would not be taken there. Haleem Adil Sheikh, a senior PTI leader, told AFP there was hope in the party that Khan would receive better treatment after the court order. But after changing the hospital and then moving Khan back to jail, we've lost that hope as well, he said. Khan was prime minister from 2018 to 2022 before being removed in a no-confidence vote during a political crisis over tensions between his government and the powerful military establishment. He has since faced multiple legal cases on corruption and other charges, which Khan and his PTI party maintain are politically motivated. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories His arrest triggered nationwide protests in May 2023, some of which turned violent and led to hundreds of arrests.
Confident Shanto plots 'five days of good cricket again'
Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto believes his side can cope with the extra bounce in Mackay, the venue of the second Test against Australia
Hussey Considers Taking Up England Batting Coach Role After Approach From Fleming
Chennai Super Kings: Former Australia batter Michael Hussey said is considering an offer to become England's Test batting coach after receiving an informal approach from newly appointed head-coach Stephen Fleming. Hussey spent nearly 15 years alongside Fleming at five-time IPL-winning franchise Chennai Super Kings (CSK) as both a player and later as batting coach. We (Fleming and I) obviously get on really well and work a lot together. So, it was just a bit of a passing comment, really saying, 'Look, what do you reckon? Would you think about being the batting coach?' There is a lot of different things to consider. My short answer is I would not say no to anything really. It would feel a bit weird definitely coaching for England against Australia in an Ashes series, no question, Hussey was quoted as saying by Fox Sports. Nicknamed Mr. Cricket, Hussey previously served as a consultant for England during their successful 2022 Mens T20 World Cup campaign in Australia. But taking up the role in a full-time capacity will also be decided by his family commitments. I have a very close relationship with Stephen Fleming and that has an impact on it as well. The time away from family is a real thing for me. I am not in a position to say yay or nay any time soon. I love the coaching side of the game. I love trying to help players get better whether they are Australians, English, South Africans, Pakistan or India or anywhere, it does not bother me. I dont feel as if I am coaching against a team thats the thing. I sort of feel as if I am coaching with a team whether it is against Australia or South Africa or some other team, he added. I have a very close relationship with Stephen Fleming and that has an impact on it as well. The time away from family is a real thing for me. I am not in a position to say yay or nay any time soon. I love the coaching side of the game. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories He has a great chance to do well. He wants to keep the game moving forward but perhaps not as recklessly as England have been recently. He will try and be a bit smarter with it. Article Source: IANS
Rohit Begins Prep For West Indies ODIs
Rohit Sharma has commenced his rigorous training at the Mumbai Cricket Association facility, gearing up for the ODI series against the West Indies in September.
Sri Lanka bring in Mishara and Arachchige for second Test against India
Dinesh Chandimal is out after his concussion in the first Test, while Nishan Madushka, Ramesh Mendis and Dilshan Madushanka have been dropped
Sri Lanka bring in two new faces for India Test
Sri Lanka has announced two changes to their squad for the upcoming second and final Test against India, bringing in all-rounder Sahan Arachchige and batter Kamil Mishara. These changes come as Sri Lanka aims to level the series after losing the first Test.
Does Shubman Gill Have Weakness Against Left Arm Spin?
India captain Shubman Gill on Friday spent considerable time fine-tuning his game against that variation at the team's training session ahead of the upcoming second Test against Sri Lanka, in Colombo.
Where's Shreyas Iyer Holidaying?
Shreyas Iyer is unwinding in Bali with close friend Aman Khan, sharing glimpses of their relaxing holiday away from the demands of the sport.
'Pakistan Are A Poor Side': England Great Delivers Brutal 'Failure' Verdict
Former England cricket team fast bowler Stuart Broad delivered a brutal verdict on Pakistan as he described them as a 'poor side'.
Sri Lanka Name Arachchige, Mishara For 2nd Test Against India
Sri Lanka Cricket: Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) on Friday announced their squad for the second and final Test match against India. All-rounder Sahan Arachchige and batter Kamil Mishara have been drafted into the 14-member squad that will face the Shubman Gill-led side in the second Test in Colombo from August 23 onwards. Dinesh Chandimal, who suffered an injury during the opener in Galle, is out, as is his replacement Pasindu Sooriyabandara, who was out for a golden duck in the only innings he batted after making his debut as a concussion replacement. There was no place for the other opener, Nishan Madushka, while bowling all-rounder Ramesh Mendis and fast bowler Dilshan Madushka also missed out. Arachchige gets his reward after leading the Sri Lanka A side in the unofficial Tests against the Indian A team and putting up an impressive performance. He scored 127 in the second game and also scored 72 in the first match. He made 209 runs in the two games and topped the charts for his team, second only to India's Sai Sudharsan. The all-rounder remains uncapped in Tests. Mishara was in impressive form in the Lanka Premier League 2026, having scored 411 runs in nine innings in the recent season. He also scored a hundred against Galle Gallants. He was in brilliant touch in the Major Clubs T20 competition, having hit 145 from 72 balls yesterday. Arachchige gets his reward after leading the Sri Lanka A side in the unofficial Tests against the Indian A team and putting up an impressive performance. He scored 127 in the second game and also scored 72 in the first match. He made 209 runs in the two games and topped the charts for his team, second only to India's Sai Sudharsan. The all-rounder remains uncapped in Tests. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Sri Lanka squad: Lahiru Udara, Kamil Mishara, Pasindu Sooriyabandara, Kamindu Mendis (Vice Captain), Dhananjaya De Silva (Captain), Sahan Arachchige, Sonal Dinusha, Niroshan Dickwella, Keshara Nuwantha, Prabath Jayasuriya, Milan Ratnayake, Lahiru Kumara, Asitha Fernando and Vishwa Fernando Article Source: IANS
Sri Lanka Take Drastic Decision Ahead Of 2nd Test Against India In Colombo
Sri Lanka drafted in off-spin all-rounder Sahan Arachchige and batter Kamil Mishara into the squad for the must-win second and final Test against India, starting here from August 23.
The stage is set for the second and final Test of the ongoing series between Australia and Bangladesh. The two sides are slated to take on each other at the Great Barrier Reef Arena in Mackay from August 22nd, and it is interesting to note that it was Bangladesh that managed to register a historic win in the first Test.
'We Just Want To Play Good Cricket': Shanto Not Thinking About History Ahead Of Mackay Test
Great Barrier Reef Arena: History books will look to add another chapter of glory when Bangladesh take on Australia in the second Test of the series on Saturday as the Asian team can complete their first Test series win Down Under. However, amid talk of creating history, Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto is focusing only on playing good Test cricket and not on the result. Bangladesh need only a draw at the Great Barrier Reef Arena to secure their first-ever Test series victory against Australia, while another win would give them a stunning 2-0 sweep after their historic nine-wicket victory in the opening Test in Darwin. However, Shanto does not want his players to get carried away by the possibility of creating history and has urged the team to concentrate on the process and take the game session by session. No, I dont want to think that far ahead; I have been saying this from the beginning that we want to play good cricket, Shanto said at the pre-match press conference on Friday. The important thing is how well we are playing each day, each session. So that will be the target. I think if we follow the process properly, we can play good cricket session by session. The result will come automatically, he added. Bangladeshs historic win in Darwin gave them a huge boost, but Shanto believes the team must now put that result behind them and adapt to the new conditions in Mackay. Before we came here, we always talked about it being a very challenging series for us. We have to enjoy this opportunity and this challenge. After the first Test, there is a lot of emotion going on, but as professional cricketers, we have to come again and again to face new conditions and new challenges, Shanto said. Bangladeshs historic win in Darwin gave them a huge boost, but Shanto believes the team must now put that result behind them and adapt to the new conditions in Mackay. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Definitely, we should play. I think if we dont play, we wont improve ourselves, and we wont be able to show what we are capable of in world cricket because we won this last match, we have been able to send a positive message, and we believe that the team we have is capable of playing in any conditions, he said. Article Source: IANS
Punjab T20 League: As the stage is set for the upcoming edition of the Sher-e-Punjab T20 League, scheduled to begin on August 30 at the I.S. Bindra Stadium in Chandigarh, Jalandhar Warriors captain Prabhsimran Singh is excited about the tournament and believes his team has prepared well for the challenge. Six franchises will lock horns with each other for the ultimate glory, with some of the best emerging and established cricketing talent from Punjab set to take the field. Speaking about the preparations, Prabhsimran said, Im very excited to lead the Jalandhar Warriors in the Sher-e-Punjab T20 League. The preparations are going on in full flow. We picked a good team at the auction, and all the players are working hard during the practice sessions. Everyone is putting in that extra effort, and we are looking forward to the tournament. The right-handed batter also highlighted the importance of the Sher-e-Punjab T20 League in providing young players with an opportunity to learn from experienced cricketers. With several players who have represented India and played in the IPL expected to feature in the tournament, Prabhsimran feels the youngsters can benefit greatly from sharing the dressing room with them. It is a very good platform for the youngsters. They will get an opportunity to share the dressing room with IPL and India players. They can learn from their experience, understand the demands of professional cricket and improve their game. Playing alongside experienced players can give them a lot of confidence, he said. Prabhsimran also believes the support of the fans will add to the excitement of the tournament. With Punjabs cricket fans known for their passion, he is hoping to see the stands packed during the league. It is a very good platform for the youngsters. They will get an opportunity to share the dressing room with IPL and India players. They can learn from their experience, understand the demands of professional cricket and improve their game. Playing alongside experienced players can give them a lot of confidence, he said. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories With the tournament just around the corner, the Jalandhar Warriors batter is eager to get started and hopes the team can put up a strong performance throughout the season. Article Source: IANS
'They will come harder': Bangladesh ready for Australia
Bangladesh coach Phil Simmons has cautioned his team to expect a strong comeback from Australia in the second Test after their surprising nine-wicket victory in the series opener. Simmons emphasised the need for continued high performance, while Australia's captain Pat Cummins acknowledged their poor performance in the first match and confirmed team changes for the upcoming game in Mackay.
Matt Renshaw returns as Australia name playing XI for second Bangladesh Test in Mackay
The stage is set for the second and final Test of the ongoing series between Australia and Bangladesh. The two sides are slated to take on each other at the Great Barrier Reef Arena, Mackay,...
India High Commissioner Hosts Team India Ahead Of Colombo Test
Sri Lanka Santosh Jha: Indias High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Santosh Jha has hosted the Indian team here at India House ahead of the second Test of the ongoing two-match series against Sri Lanka. Jha hosted both the Indian and Sri Lankan teams on Thursday night, with the two sides preparing for the second Test, scheduled to begin in Colombo on August 23. The BCCI shared a post from the event on X, describing the gathering as a 'memorable evening.' A memorable evening in Colombo! H.E. Mr. Santosh Jha, High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka, hosted #TeamIndia at the India House in Colombo ahead of the second Test against Sri Lanka, the BCCI said in its X post. Jha also expressed his pleasure at hosting both teams and shared the glimpses of the meeting on X, with a caption, Cheering for #TeamIndia. Happy to host the Indian and Sri Lankan Mens Cricket Teams during the ongoing ICC World Test Championship matches in Sri Lanka. Bound by a shared passion for the sport, cricket continues to strengthen the enduring ties between India and Sri Lanka. India took a 1-0 lead in the series with a comprehensive 165-run victory in the opening Test in Galle. India dominated the first Test after posting 462 in their first innings, with Devdutt Padikkal scoring a magnificent 167. The visitors then bowled Sri Lanka out for 284 before setting up a 372-run target in the fourth innings. Jha also expressed his pleasure at hosting both teams and shared the glimpses of the meeting on X, with a caption, Cheering for #TeamIndia. Happy to host the Indian and Sri Lankan Mens Cricket Teams during the ongoing ICC World Test Championship matches in Sri Lanka. Bound by a shared passion for the sport, cricket continues to strengthen the enduring ties between India and Sri Lanka. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories The Colombo Test, which will be played from August 23 to 27, will give Sri Lanka an opportunity to level the series, while India will look to maintain their winning momentum and strengthen their position in the ongoing World Test Championship cycle. Article Source: IANS
