Cricket

Bangladesh Pacer Rubel Hossain Announces Retirement From International Cricket

Prime Bank Cricket Club: Bangladesh pacer Rubel Hossain has announced his retirement from international cricket, marking the end of a career filled with speed, passion, and memorable moments for Bangladesh. The 36-year-old fast bowler shared his decision in an emotional message on Facebook, reflecting on his journey with the national team. Playing for the national team has always meant a lot to me. But there comes a time when one has to step away from international cricket. With that in mind, I have decided to say goodbye to international cricket, Rubel wrote on Facebook, signaling the end of his international career. Although he is leaving the global stage, Rubel made it clear that he will stay involved with the sport. He stated that he will continue playing domestic cricket and expressed gratitude to those who supported him throughout his journey. I intend to continue playing domestic cricket. I would like to thank my family, friends, media personnel, and fans. I believe you will continue to support me in the days ahead as well, he added. The pacer thanked his family, friends, media professionals, and fans, while also expressing hope that their support would continue in the next phase of his career. Rubels international career spanned over a decade, during which he became one of Bangladeshs main pace options. The pacer thanked his family, friends, media professionals, and fans, while also expressing hope that their support would continue in the next phase of his career. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Even after his last international appearance, Rubel remained active in domestic cricket, most recently playing for Prime Bank Cricket Club in 2024. Article Source: IANS

Warwickshire thwarted by weather after posting record 354 for 7

Perrin top-scores in innings of five half-centuries at Edgbaston

Surrey stumble home after Paige Scholfield's fireworks

Winfield-Hill penalised for remonstrating with umpires before Scholfield's 89 off 42 leads chase

IPL 2026: Rasikh Dar Shines With Four Wickets As RCB Bowl Out LSG For 146

Rasikh Salam Dar: Rasikh Salam Dar picked four wickets as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) bowled out Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) for just 146 runs in 20 overs in the 23rd match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 played at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium on Wednesday. Coming to bat after losing the toss, LSG endured a sluggish start as openers Mitchell Marsh and Aiden Markram found it difficult to score freely against the disciplined new-ball spell from Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood. The duo crawled to 14/0 after two overs. Marsh broke the shackles in the third over with a towering 102-metre six off Bhuvneshwar, while Markram followed it up with a maximum in the next over. However, Markrams brief stay ended on the final ball of that over, as he mistimed a slower delivery from Rasikh Salam Dar and was caught by Devdutt Padikkal for 12 (8). LSG suffered a major setback soon after when captain Rishabh Pant injured his elbow and had to walk off after facing just three deliveries. Nicholas Pooran, who came in next, failed to make an impact and was clean bowled by Hazlewood in the seventh over. Amid the early setbacks, Marsh steadied the innings alongside Ayush Badoni, with the pair adding a quick 36 runs off 22 balls. The partnership was broken in the 10th over when Krunal Pandya bowled Marsh with a fuller delivery. Marsh top-scored with 40 off 32 balls, including three fours and two sixes. Krunal struck again in his next over to dismiss Abdul Samad for a duck, putting LSG further on the back foot. Badoni then attempted to anchor the innings, combining with youngster Mukul Choudhary to rebuild the innings with sensible strike rotation and occasional boundaries. However, the stand was broken in the 16th over when Badoni edged a short, slower ball from Rasikh to the wicketkeeper after scoring 38 off 24 balls. Pant returned to bat later but struggled for rhythm and was dismissed for just one run in the 17th over. Mukul continued to fight at the other end, scoring 39 off 28 balls, but wickets kept falling regularly. He was eventually bowled by Rasikh in the final over as LSG were bowled out for 146. Badoni then attempted to anchor the innings, combining with youngster Mukul Choudhary to rebuild the innings with sensible strike rotation and occasional boundaries. However, the stand was broken in the 16th over when Badoni edged a short, slower ball from Rasikh to the wicketkeeper after scoring 38 off 24 balls. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: Lucknow Super Giants 146/10 in 20 overs (Mitchell Marsh 40, Mukul Choudhary 39; Rasikh Dar 4-24, Bhuvneshwar Kumar 3-27 ) against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Wadhera Hopes For Success On Return To Wankhede For Clash With MI

Indian Premier League: Familiarity with playing conditions and players breeds confidence, especially for a player going through a lean patch with the bat. Punjab Kings' middle-order batter Nehal Wadhera is hoping that his return to the Wankhede Stadium for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 clash with the Mumbai Indians on Thursday will help him regain form and produce a big knock. Wadhera, who has scored 3, 10, and 14 runs in the three matches in which PBKS have batted this season, has played two seasons for the Mumbai Indians from 2023-24 and is quite familiar with the Wankhede Stadium and the current MI squad, barring a few players. The 25-year-old batting all-rounder from Ludhiana in Punjab is brimming with confidence on his return to Wankhede. I have played here for two years, so I know the conditions well. I have played with everyone here. I have played a lot of these bowlers in the nets too. I know I am short of runs, but I am hoping that the time will come when I am also scoring well. I am in good touch, though. I think it is a matter of one innings, and then it will start from there, said Wadhera in the pre-match press conference at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Wednesday. Wadhera said the team will take confidence from their good record against the Mumbai Indians over the year -- among the eight IPL-founding teams, PBKS are the only one with an equal head-to-head record with MI, with both teams having won 17 matches in the 34 they have played so far. Just like a bowler who is doing well has lots of confidence in bowling or a batter who is doing well has confidence in his batting, similarly, a team. If a team has a good winning record against another team, that also carries forward the momentum. So we are in a very positive frame of mind. It is not only that, but last year we won against them in the semifinals, and this time too they same set of bowlers, the same team. So, we also have an idea of what plan they will come up with, which plan of action they will come up with, and we already have an idea. It is an added advantage that last year, if we did well against their plans, then this year also we will do well, said Wadhera. The middle-order batter who bowls leg-break when required agreed that Punjab Kings have started from where they left off last year, though they were disappointed at losing the final to Royal Challengers Bengaluru. We are exactly where we left, we are carrying up the same momentum. Though we lost the final last year, we are still dominating every team like we did last year. We are following the same routine, there is the same atmosphere basically, which we had last year, he said. Wadhera praised head coach Ricky Ponting and skipper Shreyas Iyer for instilling a positive outlook among the players and giving them confidence to play freely. He said Ponting always tells the players to follow their natural game without bothering about failure. We are exactly where we left, we are carrying up the same momentum. Though we lost the final last year, we are still dominating every team like we did last year. We are following the same routine, there is the same atmosphere basically, which we had last year, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The 25-year-old batter from Punjab said skipper Shreyas Iyer's one-on-one interactions with the players also have a good impact on the players. Just the other day, I was having a conversation with him, and he told me to play my natural game without bothering about pressure. 'You play your natural game, I am there to take up the pressure, he told me, said Wadhera. Article Source: IANS

Can struggling MI halt Shreyas and PBKS' unbeaten run?

Rohit, who retired hurt against RCB with what seemed like a hamstring issue, could be a doubtful starter

IPL 2026: Ready To Bat Up The Order, Says Naman Dhir As MI Sweat Over Rohit's Fitness

Indian Premier League: With former captain Rohit Sharma doubtful for the match against Punjab Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 on Thursday, middle-order batter Naman Dhir has put up his hand to bat up the order if asked by the team management. Dhir, predominantly a finisher who bats lower down the order, has moved up to bat on a few occasions last season when the Mumbai Indians made it to the playoffs, where they lost to Punjab Kings in Qualifier 2. With Rohit Sharma suffering an injury to his right hamstring in the match against the defending champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, one of the options available to the team management is promoting someone to open the innings and moving Naman Dhir into the middle-order. On Wednesday, Dhir said he is ready to bat wherever the team wants him to. I am ready to bat in whatever position the team wants me to. I have done that earlier, last year, I batted at the 5th-6th position and can do the same again, said Naman Dhir in the pre-match press conference on Wednesday. Dhir said the team did not do well in the last couple of matches but expressed confidence that they have the means to turn things around. He said they were not worried over Rohit's fitness and the poor form of pacer Jasprit Bumrah, who has gone wicketless in four matches so far. They have so much experience and are class players. When it comes to Rohit or Jasprit bhai, we have no worries, he said. He said they were not worried over Rohit's fitness and the poor form of pacer Jasprit Bumrah, who has gone wicketless in four matches so far. Also Read: Live Cricket Score It is not that we have done very poorly with the bat in the Power-play. Yes, in terms of bowling, failure to take wickets in the first six overs is a minor concern. But with bowlers like Trent Boult and Jasprit Bumrah, they can make a comeback any day, they can win us matches any day, he said. Article Source: IANS

'200 Used To Feel Safe, Now Its Different': Marsh Reflects On Changing T20 Trends

Lucknow Super Giants: Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) opener and Australia's T20 captain Mitchell Marsh believes the evolving nature of T20 cricket has made even 200-run totals uncertain as the team clashes against defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the 23rd match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 played at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium on Wednesday. Look, I think condition-wise, it probably is if you get a good wicket. I think in the past, if you made 200, you'd walk out to bowl, and you'd be feeling extremely confident, whereas now it's probably a different question: do we got enough? So it's exciting to watch, and hopefully there's lots of runs tonight, Marsh told broadcasters ahead of the match. The Australian all-rounder also pointed out the rising expectations from opening batters in the powerplay, indicating that aggressive starts are becoming the norm. 65-70? It's probably more like 90 these days. I must admit, I've watched a few of these young boys, certainly the young Indians, the way they've gone about the power play and sat in my room over the last few weeks and gone, gee, we need to go pretty hard here. So it's a new element to the game. It's certainly exciting, and hopefully Aiden and I can get us off to a flier tonight, he said. Marsh also spoke about his growing on-field partnership with fellow opener Aiden Markram, highlighting the importance of camaraderie between batting partners. 65-70? It's probably more like 90 these days. I must admit, I've watched a few of these young boys, certainly the young Indians, the way they've gone about the power play and sat in my room over the last few weeks and gone, gee, we need to go pretty hard here. So it's a new element to the game. It's certainly exciting, and hopefully Aiden and I can get us off to a flier tonight, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Meanwhile, Marsh is struggling for runs in the IPL 2026. He has scored just 75 runs in four matches with a poor average of 18.75 runs, as LSG have lost two out of their four opening matches and are placed at number 7 in the points table. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Rohit Sharma Skips Training, Still Under 'assessment', Final Call To Be Made Just Before The Match

The Mumbai Indians: The Mumbai Indians team management is keeping under wraps the availability of former captain Rohit Sharma for Thursday's match against Punjab Kings, with the team spokesman providing no information about him on Wednesday. At the start of the pre-match press conference ahead of the Mumbai Indians' key encounter with PBKS, the media manager informed that no decision had been taken on Rohit's availability. The medical team and team management are still assessing him, and you will get to know as and when we will get to know, said the update from the team's media manager at the start of the press conference. The 38-year-old Rohit had suffered a hamstring injury and had retired hurt in their previous match against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru. He did not turn up for training on Tuesday and on Wednesday made a late appearance towards the end of the session -- his right leg strapped around the hamstring area, but did not bat. The 38-year-old former Indica captain has reportedly undergone some scans, raising doubts that the injury is quite serious and thus makes him doubtful for the PBKS match. The MI team management has also not put out details of the extent of his injury, which has fueled speculation that IPL's most successful player with five titles is likely to miss the next match... and may be more than one game. His unavailability is likely to cause more disruption in the team at a stage when it can ill afford that. Rohit had started IPL 2026 with a brilliant 78 in MI's victory over Kolkata Knight Riders at the Wankhede. He followed that up with 35 against the Delhi Capitals. He was just looking to get going in the match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru while chasing a massive target before disaster struck, and he had to walk off the middle. If Rohit is unavailable, as is being expected on Wednesday evening, the Mumbai Indians will have to totally rework their plans, as bringing in Quinton de Kock as an opener will make it necessary to change the combination of foreign players, with Sherfane Rutherford losing his spot in the middle-order. His unavailability is likely to cause more disruption in the team at a stage when it can ill afford that. Rohit had started IPL 2026 with a brilliant 78 in MI's victory over Kolkata Knight Riders at the Wankhede. He followed that up with 35 against the Delhi Capitals. He was just looking to get going in the match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru while chasing a massive target before disaster struck, and he had to walk off the middle. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Whatever the MI think tank decides, it looks clear that they will take a final call on Rohit's availability late on Thursday. Article Source: IANS

Wiaan Mulder misses Essex's trip to Warwickshire for personal reasons

Allrounder heads home to South Africa after two County Championship appearances

RCB bowl, Hazlewood returns, Kohli on Impact Player bench

Mayank Yadav, who is on LSG's Impact bench, could make his first appearance of the season

IPL 2026: Challenge For Hinge, Sakib Will Be To Reset After Breakout Performances Against RR, Says Finch

T20 World Cup: Aaron Finch, Australias winning captain in the 2021 Mens T20 World Cup, has described young fast bowling sensations Praful Hinge and Sakib Hussain as the stories of IPL 2026 so far, but warned that their biggest challenge now will be to reset and handle the mounting pressure following their breakout performances against Rajasthan Royals. Hinge finished with 4-34, including becoming the first bowler to pick three wickets in an opening over of the IPL, while Hussain took 4-24 as their sensational spells powered SRH to a 57-win over RR. Expectations will be huge from the duo in replicating those mesmerizing spells when SRH take on five-time winners Chennai Super Kings on Saturday evening. They did beautifully well and were outstanding. They could be the stories of the tournament so far. Guys coming in so young and so raw and knocking over a really good Rajasthan line-up - that was brilliant to see. Just the emotion and the passion that they showed was outstanding. The test will be to better back it up, no doubt. It's always difficult after you perform really well because there's so much expectation. There's so much media scrutiny and pressure and interest as it should be because they're great stories. So their ability to go from the real high that they were on to then get back down nice and calm and reload and go again will be really important, said Finch, an ESPNcricinfo Expert, to IANS during TATA IPL 2026 Rivalry Week. CSK, meanwhile, arrive on the back of consecutive wins at home and Finch felt they have started to get their playing eleven balance right. CSK are playing some good cricket now. I think they're starting to get the balance almost right in their team. Noor Ahmad back in form 3-21 last night - was a huge piece to their puzzle that needed to come right for them to start challenging teams more and more. Brevis back into the side means it'll be a great game because you do know how Sunrisers are going to go - they're going to come hard from ball one. They always do try to put you under maximum pressure and hopefully Khaleel wasn't a genuine injury last night. I'm hoping it was a bit of cramp. Combine that with Kamboj and it's a really, really good prospect on Saturday night, he added. Turning his attention to the Delhi Capitals, who will take on defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Saturday afternoon with an aim to break their two-game losing streak, Finch observed their top order still remains a concern and suggested for Tristan Stubbs to bat at number three. It's always a difficult one. You're trying to find form in the IPL and that's always really difficult as well. Their bowling has been exceptional. The fact that they've got a really good balance of pace and spin, that plays in their favour because they're a really well-balanced team for all conditions - not just your home conditions and that's a good sign. Even though they won a couple of games up front, I thought that their batting was still quite vulnerable. They were still four down early in a chase early where Rizvi played beautifully and got them home in back to back games because the top order failed. So just from that point, they would be slightly concerned and thats when they would start to get Stubbs in. Potentially he could go to number three I think. He's batted there in Test cricket (for South Africa), so he's a good quality player. Often at times you get teams and players like Stubbs who have got so much power and they can do damage in a really short period of time. Sometimes they can get a bit scared of putting them higher up the order because they're worried that they can get knocked over early as in the end, you're probably devaluing them slightly and limiting the impact that they can have on the game. I'd get Tristan Stubbs at number three and be really aggressive with that decision. Like, almost say, you know what, if we get knocked over again in the top order, we're prepared for that. But we don't want to continue to keep taking games too late because you can leave yourself in a vulnerable position, he elaborated. Regarding the rising clamour for Vaibhav Sooryavanshis inclusion in the India T20I team, Finch advocated for a balanced approach that respects established World Cup winners while nurturing the teenaged prodigy's growth. Maybe it's the right time to introduce him around the squad, give him some time, but it's also really important that you respect the players that are doing the job day in and out for India. Playing cricket for India, I imagine, is the highest pressure you could possibly feel. They're coming off a World Cup win and respecting and understanding that, there's good players around, and a really good superstar youngster coming through the ranks, but these guys have done it on the biggest stage. So I think you still have to respect that and wait for an opportunity to present itself. Regarding the rising clamour for Vaibhav Sooryavanshis inclusion in the India T20I team, Finch advocated for a balanced approach that respects established World Cup winners while nurturing the teenaged prodigy's growth. Maybe it's the right time to introduce him around the squad, give him some time, but it's also really important that you respect the players that are doing the job day in and out for India. Also Read: Live Cricket Score But he's still got so much to learn and I love the fact that he seems to come with different plans a lot of the time. That shows his growth as a player, and as a young person, that's a really incredible skill and no doubt that the opportunity will come. But just don't put too much pressure on the youngster - just let him play, he concluded. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Hazlewood Back As RCB Elect To Bowl Against Unchanged LSG

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have won the toss and elected to bowl first against the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the 23rd match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, played at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium on Wednesday. RCB have made one change in the playing XI as Josh Hazlewood is back in place of Jacob Duffy, while Virat Kohli will play as an impact player.LSG has not won any change. After winning the toss, RCB captain Rajat Patidar said, We're gonna bowl first. It's pretty obvious. I see a pretty good surface. So, we bowl first and take the advantage of the first innings and keep the pressure. Not much (on the pitch). The previous game had a lot of grass. But I think this wicket, I think there is no grass. So, it will be a good track. But yeah, let's see. I think everyone is doing pretty much well for the team (on the necessary improvements). And coming on to the different stage and performing for the team. I think that's what the team stands for us. Just one change. Josh Hazlewood comes in place of Duffy, he added. While after losing the toss, LSG skipper Rishabh Pant said, I think pretty good. You know, it's a good wicket to bat on. Because in wickets like this, you can bat first or bowl first. Eventually, you've got to play better cricket. We feel as a group, we've got to regroup, you know, come together and take ownership of whatever role we are playing as a team. And as easier in every match, we don't want to introspect on how we are playing cricket. We just want to trust in the group. And hopefully, people will put their hand up and say, hey, I'm going to win the match for the team m(on what they need to do better). Definitely, you know, we talk about being leaders. And there are a lot of leaders in the group. You know, eventually, you've got to go out there and perform at the same time, soak in that pressure for the team, and try to do well. We're playing with the same team, he added. RCB comes to the contest after a massive win over five-time champions Mumbai Indians by 57 runs, whereas LSG were outdone by the Gujarat Titans in their own yard. RCB are currently third in the points table and are eyeing the top spot with a win against LSG, who are seventh with two wins and as many losses. Royal Challengers Bengaluru hold a clear edge in this rivalry with four wins, compared to just two victories for Lucknow Super Giants. The last time these two sides faced off in the IPL, during the 2025 season, RCB came out on top with a comfortable six-wicket win, further underlining their dominance in recent meetings. Playing XIs: Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Philip Salt, Devdutt Padikkal, Rajat Patidar(c), Tim David, Jitesh Sharma(w), Romario Shepherd, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, Suyash Sharma Impact Substitutes: Virat Kohli, Jordan Cox, Mangesh Yadav, Kaushik Chauhan, Venkatesh Iyer. Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Philip Salt, Devdutt Padikkal, Rajat Patidar(c), Tim David, Jitesh Sharma(w), Romario Shepherd, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, Suyash Sharma Also Read: Live Cricket Score Impact Substitutes: Mayank Yadav, George Linde, M.Siddharth, Matthew Bretzke, Himmat Singh. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: PBKS Still Winning Despite Arshdeep Not Getting Power Play Wickets Is A Really Good Sign, Says Finch

T20 World Cup: Aaron Finch, Australias 2021 Mens T20 World Cup winning captain, has said that Punjab Kings (PBKS) still being unbeaten in IPL 2026 despite Arshdeep Singh not picking power play wickets, is actually an encouraging sign for Punjab Kings, adding that if the team's primary strike weapon is yet to fire and they are still comfortably winning matches, it only adds to their confidence. PBKS are the lone unbeaten side in IPL 2026 and will aim to extend their winning run when they take on Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium on Thursday evening. Arshdeep took two wickets in PBKS beating Sunrisers Hyderabad in New Chandigarh last week, but his struggles with the new ball have been quite evident. So far, hes conceded 33 runs in the powerplay and is yet to take a wicket in the six-over phase this season. Moreover, Arshdeep is yet to take a wicket in the powerplay in his last 10 IPL innings in IPL. His battle against MIs openers minus Rohit Sharma will be an interesting battle to watch. I guess that's very similar to Arshdeep as well. Yes, he hasn't got the power play wickets. To me, that's a good sign for the Kings because if Arshdeep isn't getting power play wickets and they're still winning games comfortably and probably being the benchmark in this tournament, then that's a really good sign, said Finch, an ESPNcricinfo Expert, to IANS in a virtual interaction during TATA IPL 2026 Rivalry Week. Finch also pointed out that Arshdeep has apparently moved away from the inswinger that made him so dangerous in his early IPL years. Part of the reason why I think that hasn't been is he's probably just lost his ability to bowl the inswinger to the right handers as much as what he used to. When you think of when he was a bit younger and he first burst onto the scene, he was a big swinger of the ball both ways. So that then brings in lbw and bowled dismissals and keeps the batters guessing because it's not just swinging one way. I feel at the moment he's probably going more to his outswinger to right handers. To me, that's a bit more of a defensive mindset that he's going with. Maybe it's a technical thing or it's something that they've talked about as a bowling group. So you would have to ask the specifics. But I think it's a good sign if they're still winning games and your number one trump card still hasn't fired inside the power play - that would give me a huge amount of confidence as a captain, he said. Turning to PBKS in-form batting line-up, Finch was mighty impressed in the side picking from where they left off last year. PBKS openers Prabhsimran Singh and Priyansh Arya have registered two fifty-plus opening stands in 3 matches this season. Their aggressive starts has been a major driving force behind PBKS batting success since the last season. Skipper Shreyas Iyer has dominated the middle overs and maintained a high scoring rate, which was evident in him hitting an unbeaten 69 off 33 balls against SRH. They've got a really high quality batting lineup. They've all got really specific roles, which to me is really important in T20 cricket. When you pick a squad and you pick players, you want them to play in the roles that they're most comfortable playing. Yes, you have to just change that around slightly every now and then, but you don't want too many top order players having to bat in the middle order. So they've been really specific. Prabhsimran and Priyansh at the top of the order, they've been brilliant. Their ability to put teams under so much pressure first up is impressive. It's the youngsters around the competition that are doing that more and more at the moment. Their ability to strike from ball one and almost really disrupt plans of opposition bowling attacks and captains, he said. When you pick a squad and you pick players, you want them to play in the roles that they're most comfortable playing. Yes, you have to just change that around slightly every now and then, but you don't want too many top order players having to bat in the middle order. So they've been really specific. Also Read: Live Cricket Score It's also giving them the freedom to be able to go out and execute like that. T20 is such a high swing game. There's days when you feel good and things might go your way. At the same time, there's other days when you miss out or a couple of games in a row. That's just the nature of playing such a high risk game. So to have the support and the clear messaging from the top is so important in that regard, he concluded. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Desparate MI Sweat Over Rohit's Fitness, Bumrah's Form Ahead Of PBKS Clash

Indian Premier League: Having succumbed to three successive defeats following the victory in their season-opener, five-time champions Mumbai Indians enter their fifth match of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 for a needle clash with their old bugbear, Punjab Kings, the only franchise that has a positive record against them. MI are desperate for a win and will be going into Thursday's clash at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, hoping to put their campaign back on track by capitalising on their stellar record at home. Mumbai Indians had raised hope of a great season when they won their opening match for the first time in 13 years, beating the Kolkata Knight Riders at home. Their fortunes have gone into a tailspin after that match, suffering back-to-back defeats to Delhi Capitals, Rajasthan Royals, and Royal Challengers Bengaluru, and are currently second from bottom with two points from four matches. Though it is too early to write them off, it is the right time for Mahela Jayawardene and his think tank to start getting concerned by the string of defeats and take measures to turn the tide. They have struggled with both the ball and the bat, conceding 200-plus runs in two of their four matches and being hammered for 150 in 11 overs by Rajasthan Royals in a rain-truncated match at Guwahati. How deep their troubles are can be gauged from the fact that their talismanic pace bowler Jasprit Bumrah has failed to claim a wicket in four successive matches, though Boom has restricted the flow of runs and not conceded massive runs. It is surprising how Bumrah, considered the best bowler in the World in this format, has gone off the boil a month or so after tormenting New Zealand with a four-wicket haul in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup final in Ahmedabad. Among the other bowlers, Trent Boult has provided them with early breakthroughs, as has Shardul Thakur, but both have proved costly. Mitchell Santner is yet to get into the groove on joining the side late after completing his national-team commitments in New Zealand. Going into Thursday's clash, the Mumbai Indians are also sweating over the fitness of former captain Rohit Sharma, who retired hurt with a hamstring injury during their last match against RCB on Sunday. He has undergone scans, and the team is tight-lipped on whether he is available for the match against PBKS. There are chances he may be used as an Impact Substitute if he gets the go-ahead from the doctors. His unavailability will create an opportunity for Quinton de Kock as the opening partner for his countryman Ryan Rickelton, but MI will have to rework their plans to fulfil the rules to maintain four foreign players in the playing XI. De Kock could only come in place of another foreign player, thus de-stabilising the balance in the middle-order or bowling unit. MI will be hoping for some big knocks from India T20 captain Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma, though skipper Hardik Pandya has done reasonably well so far, both with the bat and ball. Their opponents, the Punjab Kings, on the other hand, are going through a purple patch, perched at the second spot in the points table, the only team to be unbeaten in the league so far, with three wins and a No Result so far. They seem to have started from where they left off in the 2025 season, with the team gelling well under skipper Shreyas Iyer and head coach Ricky Ponting. Openers Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh have given them some good starts, while skipper Shreyas Iyer has been his usual steady self in the middle order. Australian all-rounder Cooper Connolly made a sensational debut for the team with a brilliant unbeaten 72 against the Gujarat Giants. However, they have not been tested by strong bowling attacks so far, and it is to be seen how they perform under pressure. Skipper Iyer has performed consistently in the IPL in the last couple of seasons, but other batters in the middle-order have not been tested so far and may prove a stumbling block. On the bowling front, Arshdeep Singh and Xavier Bartlett have given them good starts while Vijaykumar Vyshak has claimed a three-fer so far, though he had figures of 0-33 in two overs in their last match against Sunrisers Hyderabad. Spinner Yuzvendra Chahal, too, has had an indifferent start to the season with only three wickets so far. Though the overall effect has been satisfactory for PBKS, there is not much to separate the teams in the head-to-head record, as MI have won 17 and PBKS 16 matches in their 33 clashes so far. PBKS have done well chasing so far, as all their wins have come while batting second. They are likely to continue to do that if they win the toss, unless they take the possibility of dew playing a major role on Thursday evening. The two sides have a history of close matches and faced off in Qualifier 2 in the 2025 edition, with PBKS emerging victorious and going on to play the final, where they lost to Royal Challengers Bengaluru. So, their clash at the Wankhede on Thursday could be another humdinger, though the current poor form of the Mumbai Indians means PBKS will fancy their chances of maintaining their unbeaten run Squads: So, their clash at the Wankhede on Thursday could be another humdinger, though the current poor form of the Mumbai Indians means PBKS will fancy their chances of maintaining their unbeaten run Also Read: Live Cricket Score Punjab Kings: Shreyas Iyer (c), Priyansh Arya, Pyla Avinash, Harnoor Singh, Prabhsimran Singh (wk), Vishnu Vinod (wk), Nehal Wadhera, Azmatullah Omarzai, Cooper Connolly, Marco Jansen, Musheer Khan, Mitchell Owen, Shashank Singh, Marcus Stoinis, Suryansh Shedge, Arshdeep Singh, Xavier Bartlett, Yuzvendra Chahal, Praveen Dubey, Ben Dwarshuis, Lockie Ferguson, Harpreet Brar, Vishal Nishad, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Yash Thakur. Article Source: IANS

PCB Retains Masood As Test Captain, Sarfaraz Likely To Take Charge As Coach: Report

The Pakistan Cricket Board: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is set to continue with Shan Masood as captain of the Test side despite poor results, while former skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed is expected to be appointed as head coach for the red-ball format. The development comes as Pakistan prepares to begin a fresh cycle of the ICC World Test Championship with a two-match away series against Bangladesh, scheduled to start from May 8. According to a report in Telecom Asia Sport, the PCB is keen on maintaining stability in the longer format despite criticism surrounding Masoods leadership and batting form, especially after Pakistan finished at the bottom of the previous WTC cycle. Masoods tenure saw a difficult stretch overseas, including a 3-0 whitewash in Australia and a 2-0 defeat in South Africa. A 2-1 home series win against England was one of the few positives, while a 1-1 draw against West Indies further reflected the teams inconsistency. In a significant move, Sarfaraz is likely to replace Azhar Mahmood as the red-ball head coach. The decision is understood to be aimed at ensuring better alignment between the captain and team management, given the strong rapport between Masood and Sarfaraz. The report also noted that a proposal to appoint Mike Hesson as an all-format head coach did not receive approval, facing resistance from both the PCBs Board of Governors and the selection committee. Pakistan are scheduled to play three Test series in the current WTC cycle, against Bangladesh, West Indies and England. The report also noted that a proposal to appoint Mike Hesson as an all-format head coach did not receive approval, facing resistance from both the PCBs Board of Governors and the selection committee. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Meanwhile, a red-ball training camp is underway at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore under the supervision of Sarfaraz and academy coaches as Pakistan look to rebuild in the Test format. Article Source: IANS

Rashid Khan 'best T20 Bowler In The World', Learning From Him A Great Experience, Says Suthar

Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: Gujarat Titans left-arm spin bowling all-rounder Manav Suthar has called Afghanistan leg-spinner Rashid Khan as the best T20 bowler in the world, adding that learning from him in the IPL has been one of the most defining experiences in his playing career. It has been a hundred percent great learning experience to be honest. He is the best T20 bowler in the world and just completed 1000 wickets in the format. There is no better legend than him in T20 cricket. By bowling alongside him in the nets and getting to talk to him, you get to learn so much. He says that the simpler you can keep in terms of bowling things, the better it is. You just have to bowl with good consistency. It feels really good to see, even when I am bowling alongside him, said Suthar in an exclusive conversation with IANS on Wednesday, facilitated by the franchise. That simplicity from Rashid was on display when he put out a masterclass in bowling to basics and picked 3-17 in GT's thrilling one-run win over Delhi Capitals earlier this month. The solid bond with Rashid, as per Suthar, goes well beyond the cricket field. 100 percent I have a very good bond with Rashid bhai. He is a very good human being. He meets everyone very well. If you ask him anything, he explains it to you very well. So, I have a very good bond with Rashid bhai, he said. Suthar said the warmth within the GT spin group featuring Jayant Yadav, Washington Sundar and R Sai Kishore has contributed to a family-like environment in the camp. I have a very good bond with everyone - even with Jayant bhai, Saiki, Washi. Everyone is there to help each other. If anyone wants to ask anything, everyone supports each other as a family, he said. That collective spirit, he said, had fed into GT's strong start to the season, with the IPL 20222 champions clinching back-to-back wins after successive losses. Obviously, we are in a very good mood to be honest. We won two matches back-to-back and we are now in a very good mood. Our focus is to keep things as simple as possible, he said. Reflecting on how the IPL experience had shaped him as a bowler, Suthar, who got his tournament debut in 2024, said facing world-class batters daily had accelerated his growth considerably. Obviously, it has changed a lot. When you bowl to such world-class batters, you learn something new every day. You get better day by day by doing that. So, obviously, it has impacted a lot, he said. A packed schedule between last year's IPL and this one featuring assignments against Australia A, South Africa A, T20 World Cup warm-up matches and a full domestic season where he also took 13 scalps for Rajasthan in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, only added to Suthars growth. It has been very good. Between last and this IPL, I was in matches against Australia 'A', South Africa 'A', T20 World Cup warm-up matches, one-day series and even the domestic season. So, it has been very good, Suthar said. Even not getting a chance for a long stretch didnt deter Suthar. Despite being with GT in IPL 2025, going to England tour with India A and featuring in Central Zone squad in the Duleep Trophy, Suthar didn't get a single game till he took eight scalps in the second four-day game against Australia A in Lucknow. Hence its understandable why Suthar credits the GT setup a lot for the rise in his career, starting from being a support bowler to a main squad member. Being in GT has influenced me a lot. As you said, I was a support bowler in GT before becoming a main team member. When you bowl to a good batter, you get to learn a lot because you get to know his mindset by bowling to him and what he thinks as a batter. Obviously, there is a lot of improvement in your game by doing it. Since I have been in this setup, I have grown a lot. When you bowl to a world-class batter, you hundred percent get to learn a lot. So, GT has had a very big influence on me, he said. On managing the demands of a year-round calendar, Suthar said fitness has become the key factor in making a switch quickly for playing all three formats. Fitness is very important. If you want to play cricket all year, because there are matches now. My focus is to stay fit and focus on fitness. Whenever the format changes, I try to switch on in the first 3-4 practice sessions because the format changes, the ball changes and my focus is to switch on quickly, he said. His personal philosophy remained anchored in the pursuit of daily improvement of his strengths of maintaining accurate line and length and relying on flight rather than speed. On managing the demands of a year-round calendar, Suthar said fitness has become the key factor in making a switch quickly for playing all three formats. Fitness is very important. If you want to play cricket all year, because there are matches now. My focus is to stay fit and focus on fitness. Whenever the format changes, I try to switch on in the first 3-4 practice sessions because the format changes, the ball changes and my focus is to switch on quickly, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Suthar signed off by saying his ability to withstand the IPLs scorching hot weather stems from growing up in Sri Ganganagar, one of the hottest cities in India. Yes, it is very hot in Ganganagar. 50-52 degrees is very easy surpassed. So, obviously, it has an advantage. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: When And Where To Watch MI Vs PBKS Clash, Know All Details

The Mumbai Indians: The Mumbai Indians (MI) will host the Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the 24th match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the Wankhede Stadium. Punjab Kings have made a steady start to their campaign with three wins so far, although one of their fixtures against Kolkata Knight Riders ended in a no result due to rain. As they gear up to face the Mumbai Indians, history points to a closely fought contest, with the head-to-head record perfectly balanced at 17 wins each in 34 meetings. Mumbai Indians started their IPL 2026 season with a win against Kolkata Knight Riders. However, they couldn't maintain that momentum and lost their next three matches. This early setback puts them under pressure to find their rhythm again, as that initial victory now feels less significant due to their struggling performance. Rohit Sharmas injury adds an intriguing angle to the match as he walked off to the field due to a hamstring injury in MIs clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). When: April 16, Thursday, 7:30 PM IST Where: Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. Where to watch: The MI vs PBKS match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Squads: Where to watch: The MI vs PBKS match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Punjab Kings: Shreyas Iyer (c), Priyansh Arya, Pyla Avinash, Harnoor Singh, Prabhsimran Singh (wk), Vishnu Vinod (wk), Nehal Wadhera, Azmatullah Omarzai, Cooper Connolly, Marco Jansen, Musheer Khan, Mitchell Owen, Shashank Singh, Marcus Stoinis, Suryansh Shedge, Arshdeep Singh, Xavier Bartlett, Yuzvendra Chahal, Praveen Dubey, Ben Dwarshuis, Lockie Ferguson, Harpreet Brar, Vishal Nishad, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Yash Thakur. Article Source: IANS

Stokes 'got lucky' with facial injury as he targets Durham comeback in May

England captain aims to play three first-class games, including England Lions, ahead of NZ series

IPL 2026: Just Tried To Hit The Right Areas, Says Noor Ahmad On Match-winning Spell For CSK Against KKR

Chennai Super Kings: Afghanistan spinner Noor Ahmad played a pivotal role in Chennai Super Kings recent win at the MA Chidambaram Stadium against Kolkata Knight Riders, using the conditions smartly as the hosts tightened their grip through the middle overs. The young left-arm wrist spinner, who has been working his way back into rhythm after a slow start to the season, delivered a controlled spell that helped CSK choke the oppositions chase on a surface that offered subtle assistance. Speaking about his performance, Noor highlighted the challenges posed by the conditions and the adjustments he had to make. Well, yeah, it was a bit humid and lots of sweating. Just tried to keep my fingers dry and hit the right area. The wicket was a bit, you know, holding the ball. And just wanted to get advantage of that and I'm really happy to really work for my team., Noor said in a video shared by CSK. The Afghan spinner admitted that the early phase of the tournament had not been easy, both for him and the team, but credited his preparation for helping him bounce back strongly. It was difficult. The first few matches were tough for me and my team. And, yeah, I was working in my training session and my grip and everything. And to perform like this for my team and win the game, I think that's something which we'll carry as a team, carry us as a team and forward in the tournament. And hopefully to win lots of matches. Noor also downplayed the notion that Chepauk remains a traditionally spin-dominated venue, suggesting that the assistance on offer was more about grip than sharp turn. I won't say it's a spin-friendly wicket. I think there was no spin, lots of spin, but there was a little bit of hold today. And that's what gave us, you know, the advantage to hit the right lane and right area. And I think that was the thing that worked for us, for me and our team. Noor also downplayed the notion that Chepauk remains a traditionally spin-dominated venue, suggesting that the assistance on offer was more about grip than sharp turn. Also Read: Live Cricket Score He also acknowledged the strong backing from the home crowd, which added to the atmosphere at Chepauk, saying, Thank you for coming and thank you for the support. The support was amazing today and I hope all of you come in the next games and support us like this. Article Source: IANS

Ive Got Out Quite Lucky: Stokes Reflects On Facial Injury, Eyes Return Ahead Of Test Summer

New Delhi: Englands Test captain Ben Stokes has described himself as fortunate to have avoided more serious consequences after sustaining a facial injury earlier this year, as he continues his recovery with an eye on the upcoming international season. Stokes sustained a broken right cheekbone and several facial injuries in February after being hit by a cricket ball while training with Durhams academy players. He subsequently had surgery and is now close to returning to competitive cricket. Opening up about the incident, Stokes admitted the outcome could have been far worse. Pretty nasty but, funnily, probably the best result of a bad situation, to be honest. I copped one straight in the face. Just a couple of inches one way or the other, I might not be here doing this interview, if I didn't turn my head round, Stokes said as part of an interview with the ECB. Despite the severity of the injury and the subsequent procedure, the 32-year-old expressed gratitude at having escaped long-term damage. All things considered, although I had pretty major facial surgery to sort it out - it was a bit of a mess under here (cheekbone) - I've got out quite lucky. So pretty thankful for that. It obviously set everything back about a month, with getting back to where I wanted to be to play at the start of the season for Durham, he stated. The setback forced Stokes to reassess his preparation, but he is now closing in on a return to action. I just had to sort of quickly go back to the drawing board and put a plan together to get me ready to play a couple of games for Durham before the Test summer starts. I'm at the back end of all that now but it was a pretty scary situation. Thankfully still here and everything's all right, he added Stokes is expected to feature in a couple of County Championship fixtures before leading England into their first Test of the summer against New Zealand at Lords from June 4, as the side looks to rebound from a difficult Ashes campaign in Australia. The England skipper also addressed speculation around his working relationship with head coach Brendon McCullum, dismissing suggestions of any rift following the 4-1 series defeat. When you're in a position of leadership with someone else, if anyone thinks you're always going to agree on everything, then it's just impossible. To me, that isn't a healthy environment for sport, where everyone just agrees with everyone or says yes to the person up there. You need debate. You need discussions. Then you end up getting to the place you both want to reach, Stokes said. He emphasised that occasional differences of opinion are natural and, in fact, beneficial to team progress. When you're in a position of leadership with someone else, if anyone thinks you're always going to agree on everything, then it's just impossible. To me, that isn't a healthy environment for sport, where everyone just agrees with everyone or says yes to the person up there. You need debate. You need discussions. Then you end up getting to the place you both want to reach, Stokes said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With his recovery progressing well, Stokes now appears on course to lead England into a crucial home summer, bringing both experience and renewed perspective after a challenging period on and off the field. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Gaikwad Was Smart In Using Khaleel & Kamboj To Dismiss KKR Openers, Says Chawla

Kolkata Knight Riders: Former India leg-spinner Piyush Chawla has lauded Ruturaj Gaikwads tactical acumen in their 32-run win over Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2026, lauding the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skippers smart bowling rotations and usage of Khaleel Ahmed and Anshul Kamboj for dismantling openers Finn Allen and Sunil Narine. Gaikwads decision to withhold spinner Akeal Hosein during the powerplay to counter KKRs strategy of using Sunil Narine as an aggressor paid off when Khaleel dismissed him in the fifth over, while Kamboj took out Allen cheaply as KKR lost their way and eventually made 160/7 in response to CSKs 192/5. Akeal Hosein did not come to bowl in the first six overs because KKR sent Sunil Narine to open, hoping to exploit Akeal. But Ruturaj was smart. As soon as he saw Narine coming out to open, he used Khaleel Ahmed and Anshul Kamboj with the new ball. That was a really good piece of captaincy because both bowlers got rid of KKRs opening pair of Finn Allen and Narine. As soon as Narine was dismissed, Akeal Hosein was brought into the attack and he did his job brilliantly, said Chawla on Star Sports. He also felt that Gaikwads refusal to let the game drift was the hallmark of a leading captain. The way Ruturaj rotated his bowlers was really good to watch. He was just going for the kill, and that is what you want from your captain. As a captain, your thought process should be to go for the kill because when you are taking wickets, you are building pressure on the batting team. When Noor Ahmad and Akeal Hosein were bowling together, Ruturaj made sure the game did not go too deep. He just wanted to finish it off soon, and that is exactly what he did, he added. Chawla also pointed out how the addition of Hosein has improved CSKs bowling returns in power-play. Akeal Hosein is bowling really well. Earlier, when he was not in the playing XI, CSKs bowling was not looking up to the mark. As a captain, your thought process should be to go for the kill because when you are taking wickets, you are building pressure on the batting team. When Noor Ahmad and Akeal Hosein were bowling together, Ruturaj made sure the game did not go too deep. He just wanted to finish it off soon, and that is exactly what he did, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Despite being denied more wickets due to CSKs lapses in the field, Chawla maintained that Hoseins discipline remained the standout feature of his spell. He just comes and bowls good lengths and good lines. He does not give batters anything to hit easily. He was unlucky against KKR because two catches got dropped off his bowling. Otherwise, he could have had two or three wickets in his kitty. But he bowled brilliantly. Article Source: IANS

Warners Sydney Thunder Captaincy Under Cloud After Drink-driving Charge: Report

Downing Centre Local Court: The future of David Warner as captain of Sydney Thunder has reportedly come under scrutiny after the veteran opener was charged with a drink-driving offence in Sydney. Warner, one of Australias most accomplished batters, was stopped in the citys eastern suburbs on Easter Sunday, where he is alleged to have recorded a blood alcohol level of 0.104, more than twice the legal limit. The 39-year-old batter, who stepped away from Test cricket in 2024, was subsequently taken to Maroubra Police Station for further testing. He is scheduled to appear before the Downing Centre Local Court on May 7. The development has placed Cricket NSW in a delicate position, particularly given Warners leadership role with the Thunder and the organisations long-standing association with road safety initiatives. Responding to the situation, Cricket NSW chief executive Lee Germon acknowledged the seriousness of the matter while refraining from detailed comment due to ongoing legal proceedings. I can't say too much (about Warner's alleged drink-driving incident) because of the legal side of it. The allegations, of course, are concerning and we take them very seriously, Germon was quoted as saying by The West Australian. At Cricket NSW, we are strong advocates for safe driving, not drink-driving. We educate our players a lot in that area and we will support David through this process, knowing there's a court case coming up, but also look to educate our players even more on this really important matter, he added. Cricket NSW and the Thunder have been actively involved in promoting road safety awareness, including their annual fixture against Brisbane Heat, which is branded as the Road Safety Cup, a key campaign in partnership with government stakeholders. Warners captaincy, which was confirmed shortly after his leadership ban from the 2018 ball-tampering scandal was lifted, is now under review, with the governing body set to take a considered approach. Bear in mind, at the moment they are allegations, and the Sydney Thunder captaincy will be worked through in due course, Germon said. He further emphasised Cricket NSWs commitment to working closely with its partners, including Transport for NSW, as they navigate the situation. Bear in mind, at the moment they are allegations, and the Sydney Thunder captaincy will be worked through in due course, Germon said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score As the legal process unfolds, Warners leadership position remains uncertain, with Cricket NSW expected to assess the matter carefully in the coming weeks. Article Source: IANS

Progress Around Nari Shakti Vandan Is Truly Encouraging, Says Mithali After Meeting Delhi CM Rekha Gupta

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta: Former India womens cricket captain Mithali Raj has hailed the progress of the Nari Shakti Vandan initiative, describing it as a vital move toward inclusive growth following a meeting with Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta in Tirupati. Thank you for your kind words, maam. It was a pleasure interacting with you in Tirupati. The progress around Nari Shakti Vandan is truly encouraging and marks an important step towards deeper representation and inclusive growth in our democracy, Mithali wrote on her X account. Delhi CM Rekha had earlier lauded the former captains support for the initiative, noting that the period of April 16-18 would serve as a landmark moment for the nation. Had a great interaction with legendary cricketer and former Captain of the Indian Womens Cricket Team, Mithali Raj ji, in Tirupati. Her support for the Nari Shakti Vandan echoes a larger national mood, where women are moving from achievement to leadership. The 16th, 17th and 18th of April will mark a significant moment, as enhanced representation of women in Parliament adds new depth to Indias democratic journey, she wrote on X. Delhi CM Rekha had earlier lauded the former captains support for the initiative, noting that the period of April 16-18 would serve as a landmark moment for the nation. Had a great interaction with legendary cricketer and former Captain of the Indian Womens Cricket Team, Mithali Raj ji, in Tirupati. Her support for the Nari Shakti Vandan echoes a larger national mood, where women are moving from achievement to leadership. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The Act provides for reservation of one-third of seats in Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies for women. Mithali, meanwhile, currently works as a consultant of Women's Cricket Operations at the Andhra Cricket Association (ACA), aside from her commentary work. Last year, during the 2025 Womens ODI World Cup, a stand named after Mithali was inaugurated at the ACA-VDCA International Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: 'Created Doubt With Around The Wicket Angle', Khaleel Reveals Plans To Dismiss Narine

Chennai Super Kings: Chennai Super Kings left-arm pacer Khaleel Ahmed has credited a tactical blueprint for his dismissal of Sunil Narine during the sides 32-run over Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), revealing that creating doubt in the mind of the KKR opener was central to their execution of plans of removing him cheaply. With KKR sending Narine to open with a quest to get a few big runs in the power-play, CSK backed their pacers to get the better of him. After a couple of boundaries and plenty of mistimed strokes and misses resembling a close car chase sequence of an action movie, Khaleel dismissed him in the fifth over. First of all, we wanted to win the game back-to-back - so we thought, how can we win this game? Obviously, when Narine comes we dont know and can't predict which ball he will hit for boundaries or even get dismissed on. So it was a little tough, but that's what we talked about in the meeting, we will plan it, how we will use the (longer) sides of the ground, what angles we can use, and where it will be difficult for him to hit. So that execution was very good because I felt that as a whole bowling unit, our mind and plan was very clear - so I felt that execution was better, Khaleel said in a video posted on IPLs social media accounts. Drawing on his years of experience bowling to Narine in the IPL, Khaleel detailed how he used an around-the-wicket approach to set a trap. Because I have been bowling to him year by year, so I had an idea that when I come here at my around the wicket angle, there is a fear that a bouncer can come and one can make a mistake on the next ball. So that was it, how to put doubt in Narines mind. For that doubt, I went there, and had to execute the same thing, that I didn't have to give him much elevation. We had exactly fielding plans, so we were safe on both sides, so that was a very good plan, he added. The pacer also emphasized that the early breakthrough allowed the spinners, especially Noor Ahmad, to dominate the middle overs. Actually, after the power play, spinners also bowled very well because we were expecting Noor to come good. We know that it is difficult to read him, but that game was not coming out for him before because as a bowling unit, the start was good. But in the middle, the role of the spinners is crucial and we were waiting for them to come out. Noor can become unpredictable, because of the wrist he has, said Khaleel. Seamer Anshul Kamboj disclosed how deep-dive video analysis and simple power-play bowling plans helped him hold his own against KKR batters. Nothing much. I just came up with a plan in the beginning, about how to bowl to which batter because we watch videos before a match. We see what his weak point is, and we try to plan our bowling accordingly, so as our field plans. So I was just trying to execute well, and not look at other results, he said. Detailing his specific strategy to dismiss Finn Allen, Kamboj said, I just had the same mindset - when I saw his videos, I felt that he was trying to hit more towards the mid-on, towards the long-on. We see what his weak point is, and we try to plan our bowling accordingly, so as our field plans. So I was just trying to execute well, and not look at other results, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Kamboj also credited Noor for this three-fer wrecking KKR bowling line-up. On this wicket, the ball was sticking a little, so Noor got a little help to comeback, so that helped us a lot, because I feel that when you have a little momentum, your body runs well, and your execution is also good. Article Source: IANS

'Some Of Their Tactics Were Very Questionable': Finch Questions KKRs Decisions After Loss To CSK

Kolkata Knight Riders: Former Australia captain Aaron Finch has voiced concerns about Kolkata Knight Riders decision-making in their loss to Chennai Super Kings, especially during their struggling run chase, indicating that unclear strategies are negatively impacting their campaign. Finch acknowledged that despite the team's attempts to innovate in KKR's batting, the overall execution and tactical decisions were lacking during their Tuesday's game at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. Certainly wasn't pretty. A lot of question marks about KKR, particularly in that run chase. Some of their tactics were very questionable. We praised the decision for Sunil Narine to go to the top of the order. It didn't come off today (24 in 17 balls), but it was something different. At least they tried it, Finch told ESPNCricinfo. However, Finch pointed out that beyond the opening shuffle, several decisions failed to create the required momentum in the innings. But some of the other decisions were a bit strange. And they were never in the hunt. We talked about Rahane and Raghuvanshi batting together, about how that can be such a stalling [factor]. And their partnership wasn't bad, but there's still no point of difference in that partnership. They don't take the bowling on. They don't get to a point where the opposition captain has to make some serious decisions about reshuffling their team, he said. The former opener also questioned how the team uses its key players, especially in their batting positions, given the experience within the squad, saying, When you've got as much experience in that dugout, you think that they'd be at least making the right calls at the right time. To Cameron Green batting at No. 6, that's an unusual position for him. I don't think he's done that a huge amount in T20 cricket. Finch further elaborated on the challenges faced by Cameron Green, especially when coming in under pressure against spin. Starting against two spinners [Akeal Hosein and Noor Ahmad], he only lasted one ball. But that's his worst nightmare, walking out to bat [against spin], particularly in a run chase, Finch said. I don't think you ever pick a team on price tags. That would be really ignorant to do that. Because buying at the auction is a supply and demand of a skill set that you bring. It's not about, well, we have to play this guy because we paid this much for him. He's playing out of position. His best numbers have been at the top of the order, he stated. Highlighting potential alternatives, Finch suggested that players like Tim Seifert could offer greater flexibility and attacking options at the top. You've got Seifert sitting in the wings, he's a specialist opener. Cameron Green hasn't played a huge amount of T20 cricket [recently, because of injuries], Finch said. So you've got a guy there who brings a good skill set and really good form in Seifert, coming off a good [T20] World Cup. Who's got the scoops, he's got the ramps, he's got a lot of different options, Finch opined. Highlighting potential alternatives, Finch suggested that players like Tim Seifert could offer greater flexibility and attacking options at the top. Also Read: Live Cricket Score He is a player that you have to do multiple stages of planning for when you're a captain coming up against someone like him, because he's got so many different skills. So I think that there is a time when you just have to say, you know what, it hasn't worked just yet. That's not to say that it's done and dusted for the tournament, but I think that it gets to a point where you go, right, we need to rejig our side and rethink about how we're structuring it up, he noted. Article Source: IANS

Added Myself To Kayla Reyneke Fan Club, She Will Take Womens Cricket To Greater Heights, Says Anjum Chopra

T20 World Cup: Former India captain Anjum Chopra has declared herself as the newest addition to South Africa batter Kayla Reyneke's fan club, saying the young batting all-rounder has the ability to take women's cricket to greater heights, where everyone sits up and takes notice of the sport. At the same time, she backed India to find the strategy to handle her threat in the upcoming five-game T20I series starting on April 17 in Durban. Kayla has been the talk of the women's cricket ecosystem by picking up two Player of the Match awards in her first four T20I matches, including on debut against Pakistan in Potchefstroom, where she hit a last-ball winning six. On her ODI debut against New Zealand in Christchurch last month, Kayla smashed a last-ball six to clinch a thrilling win for the Proteas and remain unbeaten on 42 off 32 balls to earn another Player of the Match award on debut. She also became the first womens cricketer to be named Player of the Match in both ODI and T20I debuts. I am added to Kayla Reyneke's fan club. I have watched her play and she is an outstanding player, especially in the first ODI when she was up with the challenge of scoring 14 in the last over against New Zealand and getting those six runs on the last ball - I watched that game live. I was watching how cool, calm, collected she was in the crease, though a little nervous, which any 20-year-old should be. At the end of the day, backing herself to perform the way shes done - I am the latest entrant into Kayla Reyneke's fan club and I feel that it's very exciting to have a player like her on the international circuit. She is one of those players who will take women's cricket to possibly those heights where everyone takes notice and says, 'Wow, there is power, but there is also calmness in the way that the players are playing the sport now,' said Anjum in an exclusive conversation with IANS. On how India should approach the threat Kayla poses, Anjum expressed confidence in the side finding their way to keep her quiet. It won't be that difficult. There are obviously weaknesses in every cricketer. There will be some areas where she will also be a little susceptible to. So, it will be interesting to see how India actually prepares for Kayla Reyneke's onslaught because she is a very strong player on the on-side, down the ground as well. How does the Indian team come up with a strategy? Let's wait and watch. Let's see what they come up with and against which bowler they are keen to throw up against Kayla Reyneke, she added. Turning to India's remarkable run of ICC trophy wins since 2025 and the prospect of adding the Women's T20 World Cup in 2026 to that glittering cabinet, Anjum said the sight of seeing five ICC trophies together at the Naman awards last month in New Delhi was a deeply moving moment and that she was unabashedly hopeful of one more. Personally, I felt like a kid in a candy store when I had five World Cup trophies in front of me. It's been a very humbling year and a half or two for Indian cricket. I'll be greedy like any Indian to say that one more in 2026 for the T20 World Cup, especially with the women playing, will be very nice. We are now getting ICC trophies back in our country. We always knew that we are a good side, but we now possibly can say that we know how we can become a champion side. Getting into the semifinals and final - our teams knew. But now winning the final - the players are well and truly aware of it and it will be exciting, she said. However, Anjum added that failure to add to the trophy haul would sting more sharply now that the taste of winning had set in. If by any chance we don't win it, I think it will be really hurting to the players as well and to everybody around because now the taste of success is there with everyone. If you don't taste that success, there'll be utmost disappointment. So, it's up to the players. Harman said after the ODI World Cup win, she knows the thing about losing and she wants to experience the feeling of winning. That entire feeling is going to be there with each and every cricketer who has been a part of that journey of getting to a World Cup win whether its men and women or under-19s, she said. Indias best ever result in the Womens T20 World Cup has been runners-up finish in the 2020 edition of the competition in Australia and the quest to add the trophy will begin from June 12 in England. These are times that I'm sure the players are working very hard. We from the outside are also very keen that one more trophy must come our way. Hopefully, it comes our way. No pressure - as we were told by our seniors from the administration as well, and Jay bhai also said it - no pressure on Rohit, Harman, and Surya. But at the end of the day, I guess it's but obvious what we all want - because I personally as a cricketer have seen so many trophies go away from the Indian dressing room. Indias best ever result in the Womens T20 World Cup has been runners-up finish in the 2020 edition of the competition in Australia and the quest to add the trophy will begin from June 12 in England. These are times that I'm sure the players are working very hard. We from the outside are also very keen that one more trophy must come our way. Hopefully, it comes our way. Also Read: Live Cricket Score So, before we get to the final in Lord's in 2026 to win the T20 World Cup, there is an entire tournament to be played and that is going to be very essential as well. Live the game one day at a time and then we'll see what happens in the final, she concluded. Article Source: IANS

Pandya Presents Chhetri With MI Jersey On His Visit To Training Camp At Wankhede

Kolkata Knight Riders: Indian football legend Sunil Chhetri made a special appearance at the Mumbai Indians training session at the iconic Wankhede Stadium. His presence added a lively energy to the session, with several MI players keen to interact with the veteran forward. Chhetri, one of Indias most celebrated footballers, spent time with players and support staff, engaging in conversations with Mahela Jayawardene, Shardul Thakur, Deepak Chahar, and skipper Hardik Pandya, among others, and sharing experiences from his illustrious career. I haven't been to the stadium a lot of times but whenever I have come, it's an amazing feeling! It's so good to come and see the sport differently. I wish Mumbai Indians and the fans all the very best for not only this game but throughout the tournament, Chhetri said in an MI TV video. A key moment of the visit was when Pandya presented Chhetri with the franchises official jersey, marking a symbolic exchange between football and cricket. The players were also seen enjoying light-hearted exchanges with Chhetri. Meanwhile, MIs IPL 2026 campaign has had a slow start. The five-time champions have managed just one win from four matches so far, which came against Kolkata Knight Riders in a six-wicket victory. Despite that result, the team has struggled to build consistency and are currently placed near the bottom of the points table in ninth place. Their most recent outing saw them fall short against defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), led by Rajat Patidar. Chasing a challenging total at home, MI put up a fight but eventually went down by 18 runs. Meanwhile, MIs IPL 2026 campaign has had a slow start. The five-time champions have managed just one win from four matches so far, which came against Kolkata Knight Riders in a six-wicket victory. Despite that result, the team has struggled to build consistency and are currently placed near the bottom of the points table in ninth place. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Mumbai Indians will now look to regroup as they prepare for their next fixture against Punjab Kings on Thursday at the Wankhede Stadium, hoping to turn their campaign around in front of their home crowd. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Akeal Was The One Who Told Noor About The Length Needed To Bowl, Says Sriram

Chennai Super Kings: Chennai Super Kings assistant bowling coach Sridharan Sriram revealed that West Indies spin bowling all-rounder Akeal Hosein guided Afghanistan mystery spinner Noor Ahmad on the precise lengths required to exploit the Chepauk surface, as they beat Kolkata Knight Riders by 32 runs. Noor and Akeal shared four wickets between themselves in their combined eight overs and conceded just 56 runs to leave KKR batting line-up in tatters. Noor in particular picked 3-21 and was the key in CSK getting their second straight win of the competition. They both communicate well, and theyve got a very good understanding. I think Akeal was the one who went and told Noor about the length that he needed to bowl. Noor bowled a bit short in the first over, but once he found that in-between length, he was unplayable. Even MS (Dhoni, nursing a calf injury) had a long chat with him (Noor), asking him to bowl more leg breaks. It was really helpful today, and the results were there to show. The wicket helped and there was a little bit of hold for him. The other wickets were quite flat. He was a little bit slower through the air, there was more side spin on the ball, there was more drop, said Sriram at the conclusion of the game. In CSK losing their first three games, Noor went wicketless and only got into the wickets tally in their 23-run win over Delhi Capitals, though his economy rate was still expensive. But on Tuesday night, Noor finally came to his best self to wreck KKR and raise hopes of forming a formidable spin bowling pair with Hosein. Even MS (Dhoni, nursing a calf injury) had a long chat with him (Noor), asking him to bowl more leg breaks. It was really helpful today, and the results were there to show. The wicket helped and there was a little bit of hold for him. The other wickets were quite flat. He was a little bit slower through the air, there was more side spin on the ball, there was more drop, said Sriram at the conclusion of the game. Also Read: Live Cricket Score But still looking to be aggressive, put revs on the ball and get the ball to spin will definitely help him a lot. And that's where you can induce mistakes because once you start to get defensive, then the batters are going to get on top of you, added Sriram. Article Source: IANS

A Couple Of Wins Should Ease Him Into This Tournament: Ashwin Backs Gaikwad To Bounce Back

Former Chennai Super Kings: Former Chennai Super Kings spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has thrown his weight behind skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad, expressing confidence that the opener will soon rediscover his rhythm with the bat in IPL 2026 after leading the side to a second consecutive win on Tuesday against Kolkata Knight Riders. With Gaikwad enduring a lean run this season, Ashwin suggested that recent wins as captain could help ease the pressure and allow him to settle into the tournament. The fact that hes got a couple of wins as a captain should really ease him into this tournament. Honestly, if I was sitting in the dugout or if I were Ruturaj Gaikwad, I wouldnt be too fussed. T20 is a game where you need to show intent constantly; theres just one small thing I would ask for, Ashwin told JioStar. Ashwin pointed to a subtle technical adjustment, comparing Gaikwads approach with that of other in-form batters. If you look at Ayush Mhatre or Sanju Samson, they took the right options by going down the ground. Whereas Ruturaj has been going across the line a bit more and getting caught early. It would serve him well if he took it slightly easier at the start of his innings, looked to time the ball, and played more down the ground, he said. While backing Gaikwad to come good, Ashwin also turned his attention to KKR, who have struggled to find momentum early in the season. He cautioned against expecting immediate turnarounds from individuals and stressed the need for a collective lift. You cant expect Pathirana to come into the tournament and turn things around immediately. But remember one thing: a few years ago, in 2021, KKR were down in the dumps. The tournament had to be restarted, and they came back, won consistently, and got on a roll. Everything changed. And what turned it around for them? Fresh energy from someone like Venkatesh Iyer, he said. While backing Gaikwad to come good, Ashwin also turned his attention to KKR, who have struggled to find momentum early in the season. He cautioned against expecting immediate turnarounds from individuals and stressed the need for a collective lift. Also Read: Live Cricket Score They do have players like Tejasvi Dahiya in the dugout, and Saurabh Dubey, the left-arm quick. There is some freshness in the squad, so maybe someone like that coming in and reinforcing the team could reinvigorate their chances. But its not going to be easy for KKR this year, he noted. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: 'I Feel Strong, Have Gained Some Confidence,' Says Brevis On Returning To Usual Form For CSK

Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium: Chennai Super Kings (CSK) power-hitter Dewald Brevis expressed satisfaction after returning to action for the five-time champions, who beat Kolkata Knight Riders on Tuesday at their home ground, and highlighted the importance of regaining rhythm and confidence following his recovery from injury. He also lauded young Ayush Mhatres impact on the sides batting, calling him 'special'. The South African batter, who had been sidelined from the first few games with a side strain, looked comfortable on his comeback and was pleased to contribute in a winning effort for the team. It was fun; I enjoyed it. It was great to be out here in front of the crowd, very special. And yeah, just spending time getting to know the wicket. It was a bit different compared to the other night, but yeah, lots of fun. It was absolutely great to dive around on the field as well, to have a good swing with the bat and just get a feel for it. It feels like Ive gained some confidence because it wasnt nice being out with a side strain. But yeah, I feel strong and Im glad we got the win, Brevis told JioStar. The Proteas star's return adds depth to the CSK batting unit, with the youngster known for his aggressive strokeplay and ability to shift momentum quickly. He also reserved special praise for emerging talent Mhatre, applauding the youngsters fearless style and natural approach to the game. It was fun; I enjoyed it. It was great to be out here in front of the crowd, very special. And yeah, just spending time getting to know the wicket. It was a bit different compared to the other night, but yeah, lots of fun. It was absolutely great to dive around on the field as well, to have a good swing with the bat and just get a feel for it. It feels like Ive gained some confidence because it wasnt nice being out with a side strain. But yeah, I feel strong and Im glad we got the win, Brevis told JioStar. Also Read: Live Cricket Score CSK, who now have two back-to-back wins from five games, will next face Sunrisers Hyderabad at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on Saturday. Article Source: IANS

New South Wales call for Cricket Australia to pause BBL privatisation push

Queensland have also said they are not yet in a position to make a final decision

'There's good camaraderie' - Noor-Hosein combo starts to take shape at CSK

Looking to be aggressive, put revs on the ball and get the ball to spin will definitely help him a lot, Sridharan Sriram says of Noor Ahmad after the bowler's three-for against KKR

SA Tour A Vital Dress Rehearsal For India Ahead Of WT20 WC: Anjum Chopra

T20 World Cup: While the frenzy around IPL 2026 has caught everyones attention in India, Harmanpreet Kaur and her team quietly kickstarted their preparations in Durban for the upcoming five-match T20I series against South Africa, set to begin on April 17. This series serves as a vital dress rehearsal for India ahead of the tenth edition of the Womens T20 World Cup, scheduled to take place in England from June 12 to July 5. Though India has a bilateral series against England before the mega event begins, the stakes are particularly high given that South Africa are placed in their group for the mega event. India enters the series with momentum in the shortest format. Despite losing the one-off Test and ODI series on their multi-format tour of Australia, Harmanpreet & Co had something to cheer about by winning the T20I series 2-1. Former India captain Anjum Chopra spoke exclusively to IANS on the upcoming series, Indias fast-bowling make-up, Shreyanka Patil, no wrist spinner being picked and more. Excerpts: - Q. How significant is this series for both India and South Africa in the run-up to the T20 WC? Obviously, it's very good - as many international matches as you get to play, that is of immense quality, and you get that time out in the middle. There is ample gap between international series now, so players get to come back home, refresh, rejuvenate, be engaged in other off-ground activities, and then go back to the field and start again. That refreshing time for a player is essential. Plus, back-to-back international matches - it's of very high importance before the World Cup, that the Indian team gets a chance to play. In fact, even for South Africa, it's obviously great. But South Africa won't be complaining. If you reflect back from 2024 onwards, South Africa cricketers like Nadine de Klerk, captain Laura Wolvaardt, and a few others have actually been on the move since October 2024. I don't think they would have spent 30 days on the trot at home, and not playing cricket. They've been pretty much on the move as well. Q. What are your thoughts on the Indian fast-bowling line-up picked for this series? See, I don't have any issues with these four going or anybody else being there. Probably, I don't see it as a problem area at all, because these are the best fast bowling resources India has at their disposal. Maybe Sayali Satghare is on the fringes, but she doesn't fit into a T20I team because Kashvee Gautam has done very well. In fact, if Kashvee wasn't injured prior to the 2025 ODI World Cup, we would have seen her in action earlier also. But I'm pretty happy with this. The only sad part about it is that there is no place for Amanjot Kaur in this team. Whether she's injured or is recovering - I don't know what the real reason is, and nobody has obviously spelt it out on the outside over what the real reason is. If it's either of these two reasons, then it's absolutely fair if she's injured and is doing rehab. But if she's not in the scheme of things without either of these reasons, then it is probably a question mark and a concern for me. Q. With Deepti Sharma experiencing a dip in form and Sneh Rana not there, does Shreyanka Patil make a stronger case for a longer run in T20Is? A. It was always a matter of time before Shreyanka Patil got fit and came back into this India team. One good thing is the clarity is there that she will, at present, only be a part of the T20I squad. When she got injured, she missed the 2025 WPL. But once she came back, she had to prove her fitness, which she did. Like she went to the Caribbean Premier League, proved herself there, and came back and played in the RCB setup whey they won WPL this year. So it's absolutely fine that she's in the T20I setup - she's a good bowler, can bat, and is a good fielder as well. But if you're in Shreyanka Patil's shoes - first and foremost, be an assured cricketer in the first fifteen-member squad and then in the playing eleven of the T20I setup. Then slowly, and steadily claw your way into an ODI setup, if that's where you want to go - and that is clearly up to the player. Whenever Shreyanka was going to be fit and ready, I don't think there was any doubt in anyone's mind that she would not be in the playing eleven. Does India need a wrist-spinner for variety in T20Is? Is it surprising to you that no wrist-spinner has been picked for this tour? A.To add to that, we had two wrist spinners - Priya Mishra and Prema Rawat - in the standby list for the 50-over World Cup in October 2025. When we wanted to replace Pratika Rawal, who got injured against Bangladesh, we had to call upon Shafali Verma from domestic cricket. Fortunately, she did well and we won the World Cup. But you're absolutely right in what you are asking. If those cricketers aren't performing well enough, I can understand. But Priya Mishra, when she made her debut against New Zealand in 2024, did reasonably well and before that, she had a good WPL. I don't know where she and others have got lost. The people who are picking squads would know that answer well - they watch all domestic matches and are very hands-on. If they're not in form, they aren't in form. But it's a very valid discussion point - why can't we have a wrist spinner traveling along with the team and may have a likelihood of getting into the playing eleven, rather than somebody on the sidelines just waiting for an opportunity? On the variety point - if Shreyanka, Deepti, and Charani are the three spinners, the clarity is there that you won't fall upon another spinner. So you don't need Vaishnavi Sharma in this line-up. But then you won't fall upon Anushka Sharma either. If you're not going in the direction of Bharti Fulmali, you might not go in the direction of Anushka Sharma either and so we come back to that same starting point. Q. Uma Chetry has retained her place ahead of G Kamalini, who made a return to action last month from a shoulder injury. What do you think went into making that decision? A. I don't have the complete know-how of Kamalini's fitness levels - and this team was announced after the U23 one-day tournament was over. But for Uma Chetry, it's very good that she's on the tour. That being said, it's a massive opportunity for wicketkeeper-batters around the country to stake a claim. If Uma Chetry is there simply because you need a second wicketkeeper, then what are the other wicketkeepers around the country doing - including those who can bat as well? Why are they not staking a claim? Ahead of Richa Ghosh, I don't think anybody will get an opportunity, which is absolutely fair. But you need a very good second wicketkeeper-batter - someone the Indian team can turn to if required. Yastika Bhatia is injured and still in rehab, and now Kamalini is coming back after injury and she's just a 20-year-old. So why is there no talent coming through in terms of the wicketkeeping and batting skills the Indian team is looking for? Q. Do Pooja Vastrakar and Yastika Bhatia walk into the T20I team at some point? A. So, Pooja Vastrakar probably has to answer this question herself, whether she is ready and fit to play as an all-rounder or as a specialist batter or bowler. In the WPL this year, when she was playing for RCB, she was only selected to bat, and not to bowl. Q. Do Pooja Vastrakar and Yastika Bhatia walk into the T20I team at some point? Also Read: Live Cricket Score In terms of Yastika, yes, I think she is again a very highly eligible cricketer who can walk into an Indian team if she is fully fit and firing at all cylinders as a wicketkeeper-batter. Yes, she can walk into an India fifteen and eleven also, depending upon her form. But yes, her fitness has to come through, which has been a massive concern, sadly. There is always a scope for that, though. Article Source: IANS

'You don't pick a team on price tags' - Finch wants KKR to look beyond Green

Some of their tactics were very questionable, Aaron Finch says of KKR's muddled planning, which led to a slowdown after the powerplay and Cameron Green batting at No. 6

Kamboj level with Prasidh at the top of IPL 2026 Purple Cap table

We have a new No. 5 on the Orange Cap table too. Here's how things stand after Match No. 22 at IPL 2026

Wisden Laments India's 'Orwellian' Control Of World Cricket

Wisden has criticised Indian political interference in global cricket administration, labelling the current situation increasingly Orwellian. The UK-based Wisden Cricketers' Almanack, which dates back to 1864, is an annual record of all major cricket worldwide and is regarded as the sport's Bible. In its 163rd annual edition, to be published Thursday, editor Lawrence Booth highlighted what he sees as an unhealthy and politicised Indian dominance of the global game. The International Cricket Council has an Indian chief executive, Sanjog Gupta, and an Indian chairman, Jay Shah, who is the son of Amit Shah, India's minister of home affairs and a longstanding ally of the prime minister, Narendra Modi. Wisden describes the Board of Control for Cricket in India, which Shah led before taking over at the ICC, as the sporting adjunct of India's ruling BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party). Booth also highlighted how politics intruded upon the 2025 Asia Cup, which took place against a backdrop of a brief military conflict between India and Pakistan, leading to the players refusing to shake hands when the border rivals played each other. Was there a clearer indictment of the game's governance in 2025 than Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Mohsin Naqvi's assertion that 'politics and sport can't go together'? Booth wrote. Presumably he had forgotten he was also his country's interior minister. Booth added: It was obvious long before this latest grandstanding that the BCCI were the sporting adjunct of India's ruling BJP. - 'Indian exceptionalism' - But the relationship became explicit when India captain Suryakumar Yadav dedicated the first of India's Asia Cup wins over Pakistan to the armed forces. And the idea that cricket was now a legitimate proxy for more lethal activity was hammered home on X by India's prime minister, Narendra Modi, after his country beat Pakistan in the final: 'Operation Sindoor on the games field. Outcome is the same India wins!' The real-world Operation Sindoor had left dozens dead, on both sides of the border. Booth also cited the case of Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman, who was released from a $1 million deal with Indian Premier League franchise Kolkata Knight Riders - amid rising tensions between the two nations following the murder of Hindu men in Bangladesh. Mustafizur's exit from the IPL sparked a chain of events that led to Bangladesh's removal from this year's men's T20 World Cup, after their government refused to let them travel to India. The sport's governance grows ever more Orwellian, pretending that Indian exceptionalism comes without consequence, and blaming those lower down the food chain for lashing out. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Predictably, almost no prominent voices in the Indian game addressed the root cause of the carnage: the politicisation of a sport that, whatever Naqvi may say, has never been untouched by the real world, yet never more poisoned by it either.

Ben Stokes Says Talk Of Brendon Mccullum Rift 'Massive Overstatement'

England captain Ben Stokes has dismissed suggestions of a collapse in his relationship with coach Brendon McCullum, although he says the way they work together will look a little bit different this season. Stokes and McCullum, a former New Zealand captain, have been in a close alliance since joining forces in 2022. But there appeared to be a difference in their respective approaches as England slumped to a woeful 4-1 series Ashes loss in Australia. As all-rounder Stokes opted for a more grinding, disciplined approach, as the series wore on, while McCullum continued to stand by his mantra of ultra-aggressive 'Bazball' cricket. Both men backed each other in public at the end of the series and Stokes reiterated that position following media reports a post-Ashes review had revealed tensions between the duo. Saying we weren't aligned, I think, is a massive overstatement, Stokes said in an in-house interview with the England and Wales Cricket Board published Tuesday. When you're in a position of leadership along with someone else, if anyone thinks that you're always going to agree on everything, then it's just impossible. England are back in Test action in June, against New Zealand, before taking on Pakistan at home as well. Stokes said there would be a change in how he worked with McCullum as the team look to return to winning ways ahead of the 2027 Ashes in England. I'm very confident in mine and Brendon's ability to be able to work together, because we've done it for such a long period of time now, but work together in a slightly different way, he said. The main point of me and Brendon is our alignment towards winning things and making this team as good as they can be. That's always been the thing since we started. It might just look a little bit different now to how that operates -- on the back of four years working together. Hopefully we'll still be together at the end of 2027, winning what we want to win. Stokes is currently recovering from a facial injury after being struck by a stray ball in pre-season training but is expected to lead England in the first Test against New Zealand at Lord's on June 4. But Brydon Carse could miss that match after withdrawing Tuesday from the Indian Premier League because of an injury to his right hand. Carse, 30, was the only ever-present England quick bowler during the Ashes. Also Read: Live Cricket Score But he was struck on his bowling hand while batting in the nets for Sunrisers Hyderabad before this year's edition of the IPL got underway.

RCB vs LSG Match 23, IPL 2026: Preview, Predicted XIs, Player Tips & Match Prediction

RCB vs LSG Match 23 , Cricket Tips :The defending champion, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, have begun the IPL 2026 campaign brilliantly and made a strong statement. They have beaten MI, CSK, and SRH so far and are looking in incredible form. RCB will be facing Lucknow Super Giants in the next game. This contest is slated to be held at Chinnaswamy Stadium on Wednesday, starting at 7:30 PM IST. Two points at this stage will help RCB move to the top of the standings. LSG have managed two close wins, but they lost to Gujarat Titans in the last game. They have been rusty so far and will be hoping for an improved performance against in-form RCB. RCB vs LSG: Match Details Date : April 15, 2026 (Wednesday) Time : 7:30 PM IST Venue : M.Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru RCB vs LSG Live Streaming Details Star Sports Networks will broadcast the live action of the RCB vs LSG clash. The live stream option will be available on the Jio Hotstar app or website. RCB vs LSG Head-to-Head in IPL Total Matches : 06 RCB : 04 LSG : 02 No - Result : 02 RCB vs LSG: Ground Pitch Report The wicket in Bengaluru is very good for batting, as it is a flat deck. The batters will like their time on the crease because there is not much help for the bowlers. This wicket will improve more with time, and there might be dew as well in the second innings. RCB vs LSG Possible XIs RCB : Philip Salt, Virat Kohli, Devdutt Padikkal, Rajat Patidar (c), Tim David, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Romario Shepherd, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jacob Duffy, Suyash Sharma LSG : Mitchell Marsh, Rishabh Pant (c & wk), Aiden Markram, Nicholas Pooran, Ayush Badoni, Abdul Samad, Mukul Choudhary, Md. Shami, Avesh Khan, Digvesh Singh Rathi, Prince Yadav RCB vs LSG: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Virat Kohli is the most consistent RCB batter, who gives you assurance of a good knock most of the times he bats. For LSG, Aiden Markram has shown some glimpses, and it seems a big knock is around the corner. Probable Best Bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar has been very consistent with his line and length. On this flat wicket, he will be more effective. Mohammed Shami has been brilliant with the new ball, and LSG have used him wisely. Today Match Prediction : LSG have been rusty in both departments. RCB have been more destructive with the bat. Hence, we predict Royal Challengers Bengaluru to win this contest. RCB vs LSG Match 23, IPL 2026, Today RCB vs LSG Match, RCB vs LSG Prediction, RCB vs LSG Predicted XIs, Injury Update for RCB vs LSG 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.

IPL 2026: A Big Knock Is Just Around The Corner, Says Gaikwad On His Slump As CSK Secure Second Win

Chennai Super Kings: Ruturaj Gaikwad expressed relief and growing confidence after Chennai Super Kings continued their winning momentum with a victory over Kolkata Knight Riders on Tuesday and addressed the concerns around his poor form, stating that hes confident of bouncing back with a big knock but is also happy that other guys are covering up for him. Despite a quiet run with the bat so far, Gaikwad remained optimistic about his form, backing himself to deliver when it matters most. Just make sure that you do whatever the team needs, whatever the situation needs. And I feel even mentally, I'm feeling really well, feeling positive, and just a big, a big knock is just around the corner, but as long as the other guys are just covering up for me, definitely I'll do it when it's needed, he said during the post-match presentation. Reflecting on the win, the CSK skipper felt the total posted was competitive, especially given how the pitch evolved as the match progressed. Definitely feeling good, to be honest. I think we defended a good score again. I felt it was a par score, given that, you know, the wicket drastically changed after the first, I would say, seven or eight overs. It started spinning a bit, it started stopping a bit. So, you know, we were first looking at 220, 210, but then, we thought anything around 190, 180 would be a good score, and I think after that, we just had to get a good power play in bowling. After that, it was just about maintaining that run rate, he said. Gaikwad credited the bowling unit for executing plans effectively, highlighting how players are beginning to settle into defined roles. Slowly, it's starting to come together, I feel. Everyone kind of knows what their role is, which overs, what to bowl, and what lengths to bowl at. So I think they are adjusting and adapting really well according to what the team needs. As I said, slowly, slowly, we are getting better and better. And that's a good sign for us, he said. He also shed light on tactical decisions, particularly the use of spinners and match-ups, which played a key role in controlling the game, saying, We thought that, you know, since we wanted to kind of use Noor if we were short in padding, but we thought that, we had it covered and Akhil coming in the second innings, more of a power play bowler. But, Sunil Narine opening the batting, we thought, it was still gripping. So two right-handers in between, he can still get us good overs. So I feel he bowled really well, went under the radar, but I feel he bowled really well. While satisfied with the overall effort, Gaikwad admitted there is room for improvement in the field after a few missed chances. He also shed light on tactical decisions, particularly the use of spinners and match-ups, which played a key role in controlling the game, saying, We thought that, you know, since we wanted to kind of use Noor if we were short in padding, but we thought that, we had it covered and Akhil coming in the second innings, more of a power play bowler. But, Sunil Narine opening the batting, we thought, it was still gripping. So two right-handers in between, he can still get us good overs. So I feel he bowled really well, went under the radar, but I feel he bowled really well. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The win also brought a sense of relief to the captain, who acknowledged that the pressure of results had been weighing on his mind in recent matches, stating, Good to be on the winning side after a long time. I felt it was getting into the head even when I was batting, but after the last game, felt a bit relaxed and it is, and I feel I'm feeling really good. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: No Real Momentum With The Bat, Says Rahane After KKRs Fourth Consecutive Loss

Kolkata Knight Riders: Ajinkya Rahane admitted that a lack of momentum with the bat continues to hurt Kolkata Knight Riders, even as he praised the bowling unit for keeping the contest alive in their clash against Chennai Super Kings, which they lost by 32 runs at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Tuesday. Reflecting on the performance, Rahane pointed out that KKRs bowlers had done well to recover after a tough start in the Power-play. No real momentum with the bat. Absolutely. I thought that with the ball, we retreated really good. 190 on this wicket was really good, especially the powerplay that they got, 70-odd runs. After that, pulling back to 190 was an amazing job from our bowling unit, the KKR skipper said after the loss. Despite the bowlers efforts, Rahane acknowledged that the batting unit failed to capitalise, particularly in the Power-play, where KKR got off to a slow start. I thought initially with our batting, we just got 36 or 37 runs in the Power-play. I thought that was really important. Middle phase, to hitting spinners was slightly challenging, but apart from that, the wicket was really good, he said. The KKR skipper emphasised the need for one batter to anchor the innings and take the game deep, something that has been missing in recent outings, saying, We needed one batter to bat until deep and then take it in the end. With the team struggling to string together wins, Rahane admitted it has been a challenging phase but stressed the importance of staying mentally strong. I think it's tough at the moment. Yes, we're not winning matches; it's tough. What is important for all of us as a group to stay positive, keep our heads up, keep our chin up, just focus on the moment, he mentioned. He also hinted that the team management may revisit combinations in search of the right balance as results continue to elude them, stating, Yes, we'll have to sit in the dressing room, think about the combinations. We'll have to make any changes. Sometimes you bat with the players, the results are going your way, then it's okay. But if the results are not going your way, then you'll have to think about the combination. Rahane, however, reserved special praise for young pacer Kartik Tyagi, highlighting his rapid progress and growing impact. I think all credit goes to him. I mean, he's working really hard in the nets. He's been bowling really good and is a great talent. The pace at which he's bowling at the moment has been amazing. So I'm really happy for him. Game by game, he's improving his skills, he said. The KKR captain also acknowledged the role of spinners from both sides, noting that conditions made strokeplay difficult through the middle overs. I think all credit goes to him. I mean, he's working really hard in the nets. He's been bowling really good and is a great talent. The pace at which he's bowling at the moment has been amazing. So I'm really happy for him. Game by game, he's improving his skills, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score As KKR look to revive their campaign, Rahane reiterated the need for belief and composure within the group, expressing, We just have to, as I said, keep that head up and just be positive and have that self-belief. Article Source: IANS

CSK win two in a row for the first time since April 2024

Samson top scored for CSK once again, while Noor Ahmad returned to form with 3 for 21

IPL 2026: Bowlers Power CSK To Convincing 32-run Win Over KKR

Chennai Super Kings: A clinical bowling display led by Noor Ahmad and Anshul Kamboj complemented a strong batting performance as Chennai Super Kings defeated Kolkata Knight Riders by 32 runs in their IPL 2026 clash at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, here on Tuesday. Defending a competitive 192/5, CSK struck early and maintained control throughout, restricting KKR to 160/7 in 20 overs despite late resistance from Ramandeep Singh and Rovman Powell. KKRs chase began on an experimental note, with Sunil Narine opening alongside Finn Allen. While Narine showed early intent with a couple of sixes, Allen fell cheaply as Kamboj struck in the second over to provide CSK an early breakthrough. Narine failed to build on his start and was dismissed by Khaleel Ahmed during the powerplay, leaving KKR struggling at 36/2 after six overs their lowest powerplay score since 2024. Ajinkya Rahane and Angkrish Raghuvanshi attempted to rebuild, briefly lifting the scoring rate with a mix of boundaries and sixes. However, CSKs spin attack turned the game decisively in the middle overs. Akeal Hosein broke the partnership by removing Raghuvanshi, before Noor delivered a match-defining spell. The Afghan left-arm wrist-spinner dismissed Rahane and struck twice in quick succession, removing Cameron Green for a golden duck and later Rinku Singh, derailing KKRs chase. Noor finished with impressive figures of 3/21, consistently troubling batters with his variations and exploiting the Chepauk surface. His spell reduced KKR from a position of recovery to deep trouble at 91/6. With the required rate climbing, Ramandeep (35 off 23) and Powell (31 not out off 22) stitched together a fighting partnership, keeping KKRs hopes alive with occasional boundaries. However, disciplined bowling from CSK ensured the target remained out of reach. Kamboj returned at the death to seal the contest, finishing with 2/32. He removed Ramandeep in the penultimate over and conceded just 12 runs in the final over to close out the game. Earlier, CSK posted a strong 192/5 after electing to bat. Sanju Samson led the charge with a fluent 48, while young Ayush Mhatre provided a blistering start with a 17-ball 38. Dewald Brevis added impetus in the middle overs with a well-compiled 41, helping CSK recover after a brief slowdown. Despite efforts from KKRs bowlers, particularly Narine and Varun Chakaravarthy, to pull things back in the middle overs, CSKs aggressive start ultimately proved decisive. The win marks CSKs second successive victory, while KKR continue to struggle for consistency in their batting and remain winless. Despite efforts from KKRs bowlers, particularly Narine and Varun Chakaravarthy, to pull things back in the middle overs, CSKs aggressive start ultimately proved decisive. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Chennai Super Kings 192/5 in 20 overs (Sanju Samson 48, Dewald Brevis 41, Ayush Mhatre 38; Kartik Tyagi 2/35) beat Kolkata Knight Riders 160/7 in 20 overs (Ramandeep Singh 35, Rovman Powell 31*; Noor Ahmad 3/21, Anshul Kamboj 2/32) by 32 runs. Article Source: IANS

The IPL Changed Everything: Graeme Smith On Revolution Brought By Franchise Cricket

Indian Premier League: Graeme Smith, the former South Africa captain, thinks that the growth of franchise cricket has significantly changed the global cricket scene. He notes that the Indian Premier League remains the standard for other leagues around the world. Now serving as the SA20 commissioner, Smith has observed the sport's development firsthand, from the classic challenges of Test cricket to the booming commercial industry and worldwide popularity of T20 franchise leagues. Smith reflected that the Indian Premier League served as the key driver of crickets contemporary development. The IPL changed everything. It showed how big franchise cricket could become commercially, in terms of fan engagement, and also in the quality of cricket being played. Every new league that has emerged since then has learned something from the IPL model, Smith told Olympics.com. Sinc starting in 2008, the IPL has become a worldwide force, shaping not just the game itself but also its marketing and consumption. As Smith notes, its influence reaches far beyond India, inspiring leagues in other countries to adopt comparable models. Leagues around the world have taken inspiration from the IPL, Smith said. Whether its the structure, the player auction system, or the way the tournament connects with fans, it has become the template for modern franchise cricket. Smith observed that the swift growth of franchise tournaments is a natural development, fueled by rising broadcast audiences and higher private investments in cricket. Additionally, he discussed potential changes to the future cricket calendar to incorporate several premier leagues. Its always difficult to predict exactly how things will unfold. But if you look at the direction cricket is heading, the game will probably settle with four or five tier-one leagues globally, each occupying its own window in the international calendar, he observed. Even within that framework, Smith asserted that the IPL would still lead the ecosystem, saying, The IPL sits at the top of the pyramid. It attracts the best players in the world and generates enormous interest. Other leagues can thrive as well, but the calendar will have to be structured carefully so that these competitions complement each other. Looking ahead, Smith also floated the possibility of a global club competition featuring top franchise teams from different leagues. You could easily see a Club World Cup-type tournament emerging. Imagine the champions of the IPL, SA20, Australias Big Bash, and other major leagues competing against each other, he noted. With private franchise ownership now involved across several leagues, the idea has real potential. Theres obviously a lot of work to do before something like that becomes reality, but the foundations are already there. Franchise cricket has created a completely new ecosystem, he added. Smith emphasised the importance of cricket's reintroduction to the Olympics at Los Angeles 2028, viewing it as a pivotal milestone for the sport's worldwide expansion. For many years, the Olympics simply werent part of crickets world. Players grew up dreaming of World Cups or playing in the IPL, but not necessarily about Olympic medals, Smith explained. You look at athletes like Novak Djokovic and how emotional winning an Olympic gold medal was for him. Even in sports that already have huge tournaments, the Olympics still hold a very special place, he said. Smith emphasised the importance of cricket's reintroduction to the Olympics at Los Angeles 2028, viewing it as a pivotal milestone for the sport's worldwide expansion. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Cricket's inclusion in LA 2028, with matches set between July 12 and 29 at a dedicated venue in Pomona near Los Angeles, showcases its expanding presence in international multi-sport events, building on recent appearances at the Commonwealth and Asian Games. Article Source: IANS

Can LSG's bowling help bridge the batting gulf with RCB?

Only two points separate RCB at third place from LSG down at seventh on the points table

IPL 2026: Samson, Mhatre, And Brevis Guide CSK To 192/5 Against KKR

Chennai Super Kings: A blazing start from Sanju Samson and Ayush Mhatre, followed by impactful middle-order contributions, helped Chennai Super Kings (CSK) post 192/5 in their 20 overs against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 clash at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Tuesday. Opting to bat first, CSK came out all guns blazing as Samson set the tone with a flurry of boundaries in the opening over. The aggressive intent continued despite an early setback, with skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad once again failing to convert his start, falling to Anukul Roy after scoring just seven runs. The highlight of the Power-play was young Ayush Mhatre, who lit up Chepauk with a sensational 38 off just 17 deliveries. The right-hander took on the pacers, particularly Cameron Green and Vaibhav Arora, smashing boundaries at will to propel CSK to a strong 72/2 at the end of six overs. Samson, meanwhile, anchored the innings with a fluent 48 off 32 balls, striking four fours and three sixes. Just when he looked set for a half-century, Kartik Tyagi produced a sharp inswinger to clean him up, providing KKR a much-needed breakthrough. Following the Power-play fireworks, KKRs spinners, led by Sunil Narine and Varun Chakaravarthy, applied the brakes effectively. The duo dried up the boundaries and forced CSK into a quieter phase, with the hosts managing only 55 runs between the eighth and 14th overs. However, Dewald Brevis injected fresh momentum into the innings with a counter-attacking 41 off 29 balls. He combined with Sarfaraz Khan (23 off 18) to stitch together a crucial 51-run stand, taking calculated risks against both pace and spin. KKR struck back through Narine, who bowled a clever knuckle-ball to dismiss Sarfaraz, while Tyagi impressed at the death, picking up key wickets and finishing with figures of 2/35. CSK lost the momentum towards the end as the KKR bowlers managed to thwart Shivam Dube and Jamie Overton from hitting the big shots. Disciplined death bowling from Tyagi ensured the scoring rate didnt spiral out of control, with just eight runs coming off the final over. From a commanding 162/3 in 16 overs, CSKs lower order steadied the innings but couldnt fully capitalise in the death. Nonetheless, the early aggression and Brevis flourish ensured a competitive total on a pitch that aided the bowlers. For KKR, Tyagi stood out with his variations and control under pressure, while Narines spell proved crucial in halting CSKs momentum during the middle overs. From a commanding 162/3 in 16 overs, CSKs lower order steadied the innings but couldnt fully capitalise in the death. Nonetheless, the early aggression and Brevis flourish ensured a competitive total on a pitch that aided the bowlers. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Chennai Super Kings 192/5 in 20 overs (Sanju Samson 48, Dewald Brevis 41, Ayush Mhatre 38; Kartik Tyagi 2-35) against Kolkata Knight Riders. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: CSK, KKR Players Wear Black Armband To Pay Tribute To Late C.D Gopinath

Chennai Super Kings: Players from Kolkata Knight Riders and Chennai Super Kings honoured former India cricketer C. D. Gopinath by wearing black armbands during their Indian Premier League (IPL) match at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Tuesday. This gesture expressed respect after Gopinaths passing last week at the age of 96. Gopinath was the oldest Test cricketer in the country and the second-oldest in the world, after Neil Harvey. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) also paid tribute to Gopinath in an official statement, calling his death a significant loss to Indian cricket. BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia stated, Mr. C.D. Gopinath belonged to a generation that helped shape Indian cricket in its formative years. Being part of Indias first Test victory is a distinction that will always be remembered. Gopinath played an important role in the early years of Indian cricket. He was part of the team that achieved Indias first Test victory against England in 1952 in Madras, now Chennai. This was a landmark moment in the countrys cricket history. Gopinath played in eight Test matches for India between 1951 and 1960, making an immediate impact with scores of 50 not out and 42 in his debut. In addition to his international career, Gopinath was a key figure in Tamil Nadu cricket. He captained the team and helped them win their first Ranji Trophy in the 195455 season, scoring a century in the final. Throughout his first-class career, he scored 4,259 runs in 60 matches. His contributions to the game continued well after he stopped playing. Gopinath served as a national selector, including a period as chairman, and later managed the Indian team during the 1979 tour of England, staying connected to the sport for decades. After his passing, Chandrakant Patankar, who played in a single Test match in 1956, became Indias oldest living Test cricketer. Earlier, KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane won the toss and chose to bowl. After his passing, Chandrakant Patankar, who played in a single Test match in 1956, became Indias oldest living Test cricketer. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Samson and young batter Ayush Mhatre helped CSK recharge 72/1 in the mandatory powerplay. Article Source: IANS

Will LSG unleash 'match-ready' Mayank against RCB?

The LSG fast bowler is finally good to go, after building up his workload on the sidelines during the early weeks of IPL 2026

IPL 2026: Ill Be Able To Bowl Four Overs, Says Green On Fitness Signalling Bigger Role At KKR Ahead

Kolkata Knight Riders: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) all-rounder Cameron Green admitted the team is still searching for momentum in IPL 2026, even as he remained optimistic about a turnaround ahead of their clash against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. Green, who arrived at KKR with high expectations following a Rs 25.20 crore deal, has endured a modest start with the bat, managing scores of 18, 2, 4 and an unbeaten 32 in four outings. With Cricket Australia advising caution due to his recent recovery, his bowling has also been gradually reintroduced, with the all-rounder sending down two overs in the previous game against Lucknow Super Giants. Reflecting on his experience with a new franchise after stints with Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Green highlighted the positive environment within the KKR camp despite results not going their way. It's awesome. Obviously, on field it's not been our year so far. We know it's a long tournament, so probably need to win some games pretty desperately. But no, off field it's been awesome. I think all the support staff, the players have been great and up and about. So hopefully that holds us in good stead, the all-rounder told the broadcasters ahead of the CSK vs KKR clash. KKR are coming off a narrow defeat in their previous outing, and Green pointed out that the team has focused on staying positive and backing the processes that are working. We kind of spoke with the whole team and said we're doing a lot of things right. And obviously, IPL summer can have a really good day and win the game for anyone. So hopefully we're just on the better side of it next time, he said. On his own progress with the ball, Green expressed confidence in his physical condition and hinted at a bigger role in the upcoming game, saying, Body's really good. I think obviously with bowling, there's nothing like match practice. So hopefully I'm better for it, and I'll be able to bowl four overs this game, which is good. We kind of spoke with the whole team and said we're doing a lot of things right. And obviously, IPL summer can have a really good day and win the game for anyone. So hopefully we're just on the better side of it next time, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I wasn't part of it last year. But yeah, thinking back to two years ago, I think teams were getting 270 really consistently. So yeah, I don't know if it's just because a bit of nerves early start of the competition. The scores seem a little bit lower, but we'll wait and see how it goes, he mentioned. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Play Fearless, Not Reckless, Says Brevis On His Comeback And Mindset Ahead Of CSK-KKR Clash

Chennai Super Kings: Chennai Super Kings (CSK) batter Dewald Brevis expressed his delight at returning to full fitness and rediscovering his rhythm ahead of their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 clash against Kolkata Knight Riders at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Bengaluru on Tuesday. After winning the toss, Kolkata opted to bowl against an unchanged Chennai side in the 22nd match, putting the focus on CSKs batting unit and players like Brevis, who are looking to make an impact after time away from the game. Speaking about his return, Brevis highlighted the emotional challenge of being sidelined and his eagerness to get back to doing what he loves. It's absolutely incredible. It's great to be out there playing. It's sometimes tough to be on the side, and it angers your heart. You have to be able to just do what you love and enjoy, it's really special, he told the broadcasters ahead of the start of play. The South African youngster also shed light on the work he put in during his recovery, focusing on strengthening both his technique and his physical conditioning. I think when I had time to bat a bit, I had time to just keep it simple and do a few basic drills, so the basics, and then when I was getting more into it, I conditioned hard and got my body strong. So, yeah, it's been a good few days where I could really get stronger, he said. Brevis revisited a turning point in his career, recalling a crucial phase in December 2024 when he consciously reset his approach to the game with the help of his brothers, who helped him get back to his usual self. It was really amazing. I could remember it like yesterday. I always remember the day, December 2024. That's where the 2025 season started for me, to be honest. But I knew I had to go and do the right stuff and really give everything to cricket to really get back to the basics, who I am, and my brothers really helped me to come back to the person who I am, the way I play, play fearless, but not reckless, and having fun. And yeah, I trained a lot, I hit a lot of balls, but it was a special day that, and a few days, and then, yeah, everything went almost back to how I've played when I was a little boy, he stated. Brevis revisited a turning point in his career, recalling a crucial phase in December 2024 when he consciously reset his approach to the game with the help of his brothers, who helped him get back to his usual self. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Yeah, absolutely, love being aggressive, love hitting sixes, and that's basically in my DNA growing up, and that's what we obviously knew when I was there at that time, that's my natural play, there's aerial, more aerial, I can also hit in the gaps and hit fulls, but being natural and just enjoying the game, and then let it happen, and then that's how sixes and fours and stuff goes for me, he mentioned. Article Source: IANS

Varun returns as KKR choose to bowl against CSK

CSK are ninth on the points table, while KKR are the only team without a win this season

IPL 2026: I Always Try To Contribute Wherever I Can, Says Rasikh Salam As RCB Return Home To Face LSG

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Young pacer Rasikh Salam Dar of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) was pleased to contribute to the team and ready to do it more as they host Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in their next game in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Wednesday. The right-arm pacer was among the positives from the previous outing, finishing with figures of 1-23. The side comes into the contest in fine form, having secured a convincing 18-run victory over the Mumbai Indians in their previous outing. RCB currently sit third on the points table, with six points accumulated from four matches, along with the highest net run-rate in the competition. The fixture also marks the start of a key phase for the defending champions, who are set to play three consecutive matches at home. It was an important victory for the side, and we are feeling confident as a unit. We have clarity in our roles and what we need to do, and we are looking forward to playing at home tomorrow, he said. Reflecting on his return to IPL action after a gap, he added, I was playing an IPL game after a while, but the process remained the same. The work weve put in over the last year was all about preparing for match situations, and in the last game, I focused on executing my plans. Rasikh is part of an experienced bowling unit that includes the likes of Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, and Krunal Pandya. Reflecting on his role within the team and the presence of Hazlewood, he said, I always want to help the team. Hazlewood is a big legend and an important part of the team. I always try to contribute wherever I can. Royal Challengers Bengaluru are currently third in the points table and are eyeing the top spot with a win against LSG, who are seventh with two wins and as many losses. Rasikh is part of an experienced bowling unit that includes the likes of Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, and Krunal Pandya. Reflecting on his role within the team and the presence of Hazlewood, he said, I always want to help the team. Hazlewood is a big legend and an important part of the team. I always try to contribute wherever I can. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The last time these two sides faced off in the IPL, during the 2025 season, RCB came out on top with a comfortable six-wicket win, further underlining their dominance in recent meetings. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Chakaravarthy Comes In As KKR Ask Unchanged CSK To Bat First

Kolkata Knight Riders: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) won the toss and elected to bowl against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the 22nd match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Tuesday. This matchup is a crucial test for both teams, who are both struggling at the bottom of the standings and desperately need points. CSK approach this home game with renewed confidence after breaking a three-match losing streak with a convincing 23-run victory over Delhi Capitals. The standout performance came from Sanju Samson, who produced a stunning unbeaten 115, well supported by a brisk 59 from youngster Ayush Mhatre, signalling a return to form for the five-time champions. With the ball, Jamie Overtons impressive 4-18 underlined CSKs ability to make the most of home conditions, something they will look to capitalise on once again in front of their supporters. In contrast, KKR are still searching for their first win of the season, having endured three defeats and a washout. Led by Ajinkya Rahane, the side has yet to find the right combination despite promising contributions from overseas players such as Cameron Green and Finn Allen. Concerns about consistency, especially during critical moments, remain. Chennais home advantage is evident in their commanding head-to-head record. However, this season's slightly faster surface at Chepauk, combined with KKRs spin prowess through Sunil Narine and Varun Chakravarthy, offers the visitors hope they might change the outcome. Winning the toss, KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane said, I think the last game was really good for us. Unfortunately, the result didn't go our way. But I thought the kind of cricket we played, guys are getting that confidence from the last game. It's all about starting fresh. It's important when things are not going your way, it's important to have that belief, stay positive, and have those small, small moments in the T20 format, which is really important. So, now looking forward to this game, we'll start really well with the ball and then look to chase down the target. The kind of knock Mukul played at night was fantastic. I mean, it's going to happen in this format. As I said, it's all about belief. You know, guys are working really hard. For us, what matters is putting in those hard efforts, focusing on the control levels as players, and, you know, having that belief in each and every individual. As I said, the combination looked really good for us in the last game. So, yeah, thinking about this game, and just wanted to be in the moment. I mean, it is challenging after the mega auction to find the right balance, and obviously, the flow players are going through injuries, players are unavailable, he said. Meanwhile, CSK skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad said, he wicket hasn't changed much throughout the course of the game. So not much of a difference. Definitely putting a big total on the scoreboard in the first innings will be challenging, but as I said, you know, it looks like a really good surface. Yes, as I said, even in the post-match as well, I felt the bowling was really good defending 210, you know, against a strong DC side. Gave us a lot of confidence, and you know, even the fielding unit was charged up. We saved a few runs, and that is how I think collectively we did really well. Really exciting today as well. We got a job to do, and everyone is feeling confident. Yes, I think we are slowly getting it right. You know, Brevis coming back and Jamie giving those crucial overs in between as well. So I think we are slowly, slowly getting the right combination, and it is just about delivering each and every game and staying consistent. We are going with the same team. Playing XIs: Chennai Super Kings: Sanju Samson (wk), Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Ayush Mhatre, Sarfaraz Khan, Shivam Dube, Dewald Brevis, Jamie Overton, Noor Ahmad, Anshul Kamboj, Gurjapneet Singh, Khaleel Ahmed Impact substitutes: Matthew Short, Akeal Hosein, Kartik Sharma, Prashant Veer, Matt Henry Chennai Super Kings: Sanju Samson (wk), Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Ayush Mhatre, Sarfaraz Khan, Shivam Dube, Dewald Brevis, Jamie Overton, Noor Ahmad, Anshul Kamboj, Gurjapneet Singh, Khaleel Ahmed Also Read: Live Cricket Score Impac substitutes: Finn Allen, Manish Pandey, Tejasvi Singh, Navdeep Saini, Tim Seifert Article Source: IANS

SRH pick Madushanka as injury replacement for Carse

Carse had hurt his right hand while batting in the nets before the tournament opener against RCB

IPL 2026: Dilshan Madushanka Replaces Injured Brydon Carse In Sunrisers Hyderabad Squad

TATA Indian Premier League: The 2016 champion Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) have been dealt a big blow amid the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 as all-rounder Brydon Carse has been ruled out of the whole tournament without playing a single match due to injury. The team has announced Sri Lankan pacer Dilshan Madushanka as Carse's replacement. Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) have picked Dilshan Madushanka as a replacement for Brydon Carse for the remainder of the TATA Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. Carse has been ruled out of the ongoing IPL season due to an injury, the Indian Premier League wrote in a statement released on Tuesday. Dilshan Madushanka, a left-arm medium pacer, has represented Sri Lanka in one Test, 28 ODIs, and 19 T20Is and has 70 wickets in international cricket against his name. He will join SRH for INR 75 lakh. The Sri Lankan bowler was previously a part of the Mumbai Indians (MI) in the IPL, the statement added. Madushanka's entry will further bolster the SRH bowling unit, which has the likes of youngsters Praful Hinge and Sakib Hussain, along with experienced pacers like Harshal Patel and Jaydev Unadkat, with their designated captain Pat Cummins likely to join the group on April 17. Madushanka has not played any match in the IPL. He was acquired by the Mumbai Indians (MI) for 4.6 crore in 2024 but was ruled out due to a hamstring injury. The 25-year-old Sri Lankan left-arm pacer is known for his ability to swing the ball early in the power play. Madushanka's entry will further bolster the SRH bowling unit, which has the likes of youngsters Praful Hinge and Sakib Hussain, along with experienced pacers like Harshal Patel and Jaydev Unadkat, with their designated captain Pat Cummins likely to join the group on April 17. Also Read: Live Cricket Score SRH defeated the table toppers, Rajasthan Royals (RR), on Monday with the help of a brilliant bowling display by the debutants Praful and Sakib, who took four wickets each as RR got bowled out for just 159 runs in 19 overs while chasing a mammoth target of 217 runs and lost the match by 57 runs. They will next face five-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at their home ground, Rajiv Gandhi Stadium in Hyderabad, on Saturday. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Mother Sold Her Jewellery To Fund Sons Dream, The Story Of Sakib Hussain

Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: Rising Sunrisers Hyderabad pacer Sakib Hussain has captured attention not just for his impressive IPL debut, but for a journey defined by hardship, perseverance, and sacrifice, a story that resurfaced after an old video from his stint with Kolkata Knight Riders went viral. Coming from a modest background in Bihars Gopalganj district, Sakibs early days in cricket were shaped by financial constraints, with even basic equipment out of reach. Shoes are very expensive. Proper bowling spikes cost around Rs 10,000 to Rs 15,000. If we spend that much on shoes, then what will we eat? he said in a now-viral video. His mother recalled the emotional toll of those moments and the sacrifices the family made to support his ambition. He started crying, saying, Mummy, I dont have shoes, how will I play? We didnt have that kind of money. I had to sell my jewellery to somehow get him those shoes, she said. Despite limited means, Sakibs rise in cricket was steady. He initially served as a net bowler for Chennai Super Kings before being picked up by KKR ahead of the 2024 season. However, he did not feature in a match over two seasons with the franchise. Reflecting on his roots, Sakib highlighted the responsibilities he took on early in life due to his familys circumstances. Im from Bihar, and my district, Gopalganj, is about 125 km from Patna. Back home, we dont really have much. We are farmers. My father used to do farming, but then he developed a knee problem, so I told him he shouldnt continue anymore, he said. His father echoed the family's struggles during that period. Now I am the one who has to earn for the family. If I were ill, even arranging a single meal became something we had to think about, he said. Sakibs introduction to cricket came through local encouragement rather than structured training. There is a ground near us, so he used to go early in the morning for running. Some local coaches noticed him and told him to try cricket, his father added. He began with tennis-ball cricket, often travelling long distances to earn small match fees, which further strengthened his resolve. I used to play tennis-ball cricket, earning Rs 500, 600, 700, and sometimes even Rs 2,000 if I travelled about 150 km to play. From that point, I made up my mind that I had to pursue cricket, Sakib said. His performances soon began to reflect his potential. He made his T20 debut for Bihar in the 202223 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and impressed early, claiming 4/20 in just his second appearance at the age of 17. He later registered a five-wicket haul in the 202526 Ranji Trophy, returning figures of 6/41 against Arunachal Pradesh. The performances caught the attention of IPL scouts, and at the 2026 auction, Sunrisers Hyderabad secured his services for Rs 30 lakh. His performances soon began to reflect his potential. He made his T20 debut for Bihar in the 202223 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and impressed early, claiming 4/20 in just his second appearance at the age of 17. He later registered a five-wicket haul in the 202526 Ranji Trophy, returning figures of 6/41 against Arunachal Pradesh. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Sakibs rise from a small village to the IPL stage underscores a journey built on resilience and determination, one that began with a simple challenge and a familys unwavering support, and has now translated into success on crickets biggest domestic platform. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: When And Where To Watch LSG Vs RCB Match

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will host Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in Match 23 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, with a lot at stake for both teams. RCB get into the match after a massive win over five-time champions Mumbai Indians by 57 runs, whereas LSG went down against Gujarat Titans in their own yard. Royal Challengers Bengaluru are currently third in the points table and are eyeing the top spot with a victory against LSG, who are seventh with two wins and as many losses. Royal Challengers Bengaluru hold a clear edge in this rivalry with four wins, compared to just two victories for Lucknow Super Giants. The last time these two sides faced off in the IPL, during the 2025 season, RCB came out on top with a comfortable six-wicket win, further underlining their dominance in recent meetings. In the last four years, since 2022, RCB and LSG have faced each other six times in the IPL, with RCB winning 4 matches and LSG emerging victorious in two games. Squads: Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Rajat Patidar (captain), Virat Kohli, Tim David, Jacob Bethell, Romario Shepherd, Josh Hazlewood, Nuwan Thushara, Devdutt Padikkal, Jitesh Sharma, Krunal Pandya, Rasikh Dar, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jordan Cox, Suyash Sharma, Venkatesh Iyer, Swapnil Singh, Jacob Duffy, Kanishk Chouhan, Abhinandan Singh, Mangesh Yadav, Phil Salt, Satvik Deswal, Vicky Ostwal, Vihaan Malhotra. Lucknow Super Giants: Rishabh Pant (C), Aiden Markram, Himmat Singh, Matthew Breetzke, Mukul Choudhary, Akshat Raghuwanshi, Josh Inglis, Mitchell Marsh, Abdul Samad, Shahbaz Ahamad, Arshin Kulkarni, Wanindu Hasaranga, Ayush Badoni, Mohammad Shami, Avesh Khan, M. Siddharth, Digvesh Singh, Akash Singh, Prince Yadav, Arjun Tendulkar, Anrich Nortje, Naman Tiwari, Mayank Yadav, Mohsin Khan. Match details: When: Wednesday, April 15, 7:30 PM IST Match details: Also Read: Live Cricket Score Where to watch: Star Sports Network and JioStar. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: GT Issue Ticketing Advisory For Rescheduled CSK Match In Ahmedabad

BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia: Gujarat Titans have released a ticketing advisory for the rescheduled match against Chennai Super Kings, following the updated schedule announced by the BCCI for the ongoing Indian Premier League 2026. Gujarat Titans remain committed to a fan-first approach by offering flexibility to those who have already booked tickets to support the team. Keeping fans at the heart of every decision, the franchise is focused on ensuring a smooth and convenient experience for all. Fans who booked their tickets via BookMyShow will receive an SMS and/or WhatsApp message and/or email with two options: retain tickets for the new date or opt for a full refund, which will be credited within 810 business days, the franchise said. The deadline to respond is April 20 at 12 PM. If no response is received, tickets will be considered retained. For physical tickets, refunds will be processed only after successful return of the physical tickets. Detailed instructions on how to return physical tickets will be shared April 21 onwards by BookMyShow via SMS, Email & WhatsApp. All ticket holders are requested to review the communication and respond within the timeline, GT added. Gujarat Titans remain committed to a fan-first approach by offering flexibility to those who have already booked tickets to support the team. Keeping fans at the heart of every decision, the franchise is focused on ensuring a smooth and convenient experience for all. Fans who booked their tickets via BookMyShow will receive an SMS and/or WhatsApp message and/or email with two options: retain tickets for the new date or opt for a full refund, which will be credited within 810 business days, the franchise said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The match will still start at 3:30 PM IST. As a result, the reverse fixture in Chennai on May 21, originally scheduled for the evening, will now be played in Ahmedabad with a new start time of 7:30 PM IST. Article Source: IANS

PSL imposes a two-year ban on Muzarabani

He had pulled out his PSL deal with Islamabad United to play for KKR in the IPL instead

IPL 2026: Pat Cummins Likely To Rejoin SRH Squad Ahead Of CSK Clash

ICC T20 World Cup: Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) have received a big boost amid the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 campaign as their designated captain Pat Cummins is likely to rejoin the squad on April 17, a day ahead of their next match against five time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at their home ground Rajiv Gandhi Stadium in Hyderabad on Saturday. According to a report by Cricbuzz, Cummins will undergo a fitness test on Wednesday back home, and if he clears it - about which there is an element of optimism in the franchise - there is a chance he could start playing for them. Cummins is expected to be back in Hyderabad on April 17. Hopefully, he will clear the test and get the NOC from Cricket Australia, a source related to the development told the publication. The Australian pacer has not played a single match since the Ashes series at home against England. He also missed the recently concluded ICC T20 World Cup 2026, where Australia exited for the first time from the group stage. Cummins arrived in India ahead of the season, but didn't take part in the match. The 32-year-old flew back to Australia right after SRHs thrilling win over Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Thursday, April 2, at Eden Gardens in Kolkata for the scan on his back. The Australian pacer has not played a single match since the Ashes series at home against England. He also missed the recently concluded ICC T20 World Cup 2026, where Australia exited for the first time from the group stage. Also Read: Live Cricket Score SRH defeated the table toppers, Rajasthan Royals (RR), on Monday with the help of a brilliant bowling display by the debutants Praful Hinge and Sakib Hussain, who took four wickets each as RR got bowled out for just 159 runs in 19 overs while chasing a mammoth target of 217 runs and lost the match by 57 runs. Article Source: IANS

Never Take Decisions When Angry: Dhonis Captaincy Advice To Mhatre Which Helped Him Win U19 WC

Young Chennai Super Kings: Young Chennai Super Kings (CSK) batter Ayush Mhatre opened up on the invaluable guidance he received from legendary skipper MS Dhoni, highlighting how the veterans advice shaped his leadership approach during his stint as India U-19 captain. Mhatre, who recently led India to a title-winning campaign at the U-19 World Cup, recalled his interactions with Dhoni during his time with CSK at the IPL 2025 season, describing them as pivotal to his development as a young leader. Last year, I got the opportunity to play under Mahi bhai. I was the captain of the India U19 that time. I spoke to him about captaincy after the IPL, I asked for his advice as it was my first time as a captain. He advised me to stay calm on the ground and never make decisions when angry. He said, 'There will be frustration sometimes due to partnerships by opposition, but if you stay calm for that short period and just breathe and wait for it to pass, you will be able to make good decisions, he said in a video shared by IPL on Tuesday. The youngster also spoke about fulfilling a long-cherished dream of representing one of the IPLs most successful franchises, and the surreal feeling of sharing the dressing room with players he once watched on television. It is a dream to play and represent a big franchise like CSK. And to play for them is a big deal. And so the opportunity to play alongside Mahi (M.S. Dhoni) bhai, Ruturaj, and (Shivam) Dube bhai. I used to watch them on TV till last year, and now I am sharing the dressing room with them. It's like a dream, he said. Despite being new to the setup, Mhatre said he quickly felt at home in the CSK environment, crediting the teams culture for helping him settle in with ease. I didn't feel like my first time here when I joined them last year. I felt free here; that's how the environment is. They live like a family. I often have fun with my teammates, in the room as well, we hang around, though I am shy when it comes to talking, but with teammates I am fine, he expressed. Speaking about his role on the side, the youngster made it clear that flexibility and team contribution remain his priorities, rather than a fixed batting position. There is no specific role. They told me to just back myself and my game like the last year and no need to change anything, just watch the ball and play as per merit and contribute to the team's win as much as possible. I just want to play. I don't have any preference for the batting position. I am ready to bat at any position the team wants me to, he stated. Mhatre also reflected on the evolving nature of modern-day cricket, emphasising how the games increasing tempo has influenced his approach with the bat. There is no specific role. They told me to just back myself and my game like the last year and no need to change anything, just watch the ball and play as per merit and contribute to the team's win as much as possible. I just want to play. I don't have any preference for the batting position. I am ready to bat at any position the team wants me to, he stated. Also Read: Live Cricket Score CSK will play Kolkata Knight Riders at their home ground, the M A Chidambaram Stadium, on Tuesday. Article Source: IANS

'When He Bowled The Second Ball' Praful Hinge's Father Describes The Moment He Sensed His Son Would Do Something Big

Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium: Praful Hinge had no clue he was carrying a stress fracture. It was only in March 2023, after being selected for a stint at the MRF Pace Foundation in Chennai, that physio Naveen Babu PK broke the news to him - a severe L4 fracture on the left side of his lumbar spine. Six to eight months of rehab followed, and for Hinge, a young fast bowler from Nagpur, it felt like staring at the end of the road. Fast forward to nearly three years later, and Hinge was steaming in at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, after being handed a debut by Sunrisers Hyderabad. What followed was the stuff of IPL folklore with his tall height, clocking above 140 kmph, hitting the deck hard, and extracting steep bounce which few could do, Hinge ripped through Rajasthan Royals by picking four wickets in his first two overs. Three of them - including having teen prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi top-edging to keeper on the very first ball - came in a dream opening over, leaving everyone in a trance. From fearing he might never get to bowl again to dismantling one of the tournaments most feared batting units, Hinges spell was a reminder of how quickly fortunes can flip. Fans expecting fireworks from RRs batters instead witnessed Hinge and fellow debutant Sakib Hussain wreck them with twin four-fers. In Chennai, Naveen Babu, the foundations physio since 2011, missed the first over entirely. By the time he switched on the TV, the damage was already done. I felt very bad that I didn't watch it. But when I saw that it was something which none of the bowlers did in the last 19 years, I was stunned. He was telling me even before the IPL began that, Sir, if I play in this IPL, I will make sure to get my name in the books. That is his mindset and shows the gritty nature he has. He never gives up, even when facing his worst phase or when he didnt get many chances after injury. I don't have words actually to describe this moment of happiness, recalled Naveen Babu in a free-wheeling conversation with IANS. At Hinges home, his father Prakash sensed he was on the cusp of something extraordinary. Hinge was supposed to debut against Punjab Kings in New Chandigarh, but a change in plans meant Jaydev Unadkat was slotted in as the impact player. Fate, though, had reserved a bigger stage and a louder roar from SRHs fans bathed in orange for his arrival. These kinds of things happen in matches, as per the situation and management, so we werent too concerned. But yesterday, when he bowled the first ball, it was jabardast (stupendous). When he bowled the second ball to take out Dhruv Jurel, I sensed he will do something special. After that, he got another wicket (of Lhuan-dre Pretorious) and soon, he had three scalps in the first over and the mahaul (atmosphere) became a little different, said Prakash. Usman Ghani, head coach of Vidarbha, Hinge's state team, was understandably chuffed for the youngster, who found Riyan Parags edge with an away-going delivery to get his fourth scalp. He was working hard for an opportunity, and I am very happy that he made it count. He did well for us and that's why the scouts who were keeping tabs on him were very happy. He should now carry on with this momentum, as at the end, this is a batters game. But then him picking four wickets and that too of Sooryavanshi is a very great effort, he said. On the insistence of former India pacer Prashant Vaidya, now director of VCAs Cricket Academy, Hinge applied for the MRF Pace Foundation intake in 2023. What was meant to be a career-defining step turned into a gut punch - the diagnosis of a severe stress fracture left the youngster shattered. I told him only one thing - once you finish your rehab, I can assure you that you won't develop the same injury again in your career. We worked towards that goal and he was so dedicated like he said, 'I won't go back to my hometown till I finish my rehab and bowl the first ball.' That was his determination and he carried out his whole recovery process for almost six months and then progressively loaded him into bowling. Then, he improved very well and went to play in the domestic season and had good performances there. Before the 2024/25 season, Hinge had another injury osteitis in the groin and went through rehab again. Since then, hes unstoppable, recalled Naveen Babu. Hinges rehab involved adequate rest, aqua and strength work, tailored fitness schedule and a complete biomechanical breakdown, followed by a rebuild. Ramji Srinivasan, former India strength and conditioning coach and a key person at the foundation, explained the nitty-gritty of Hinges recovery. We didn't rush through things and were very meticulous in the process. Varun (Aaron, current SRH pace bowling coach and ex-India pacer) and I talked a lot in understanding his running mechanics, bowling mechanics, pre-delivery stride, back foot and front foot landing, and the involvement of torque. Lots of things were discussed and designed bespoke for him. He is a very diligent, very dedicated and very gritty boy. During that injury phase, there was a lot of self-doubt in him and whether he'll play at all. But he recovered, played and followed the schedule regularly, even till the last Ranji Trophy game this year. I remember Hinge told Varun that, 'Just one chance, sir. If I get that, I will take care of it', he said. The MRF Pace Foundation has been running since 1987 and builds raw fast bowlers from the ground up in both fitness and technique. Accommodation, flights, physiotherapy, yoga, coaching, DEXA body composition scans, and adequate nutrition - not a rupee is charged from the pacers. From socks to cap, as M Senthilnathan, the foundation's cricket affairs head, puts it. Senthilnathan was filled with joy on seeing Hinge, as well as previous trainees Sakib and Eshan Malinga shine in Hyderabad. The effect of being under the legendary Glenn McGrath, the foundations head coach, rubbed well on Hinge, felt Senthilnathan. McGraths own former trainer, Kevin Chevell, also worked on Hinges conditioning last year. Glenn's part is that he teaches mentally about how to handle pressure on the field because mostly people talk to him about all these things. But on the field, a bowler has to fight his own battle, as he is on his own there. So, how to control your mind, how to come out of that situation even if he is put under pressure, bouncing back after a good shot was played by the batter or how to make a come back under pressure - these are the kind of important things which definitely have played a big part for Hinge while being under Glenn McGrath, he said. In June 2024, as part of the MRF Pace Foundations annual exchange programme with Cricket Australias High Performance Centre in Brisbane, Hinge spent close to a month bowling in unfamiliar conditions, reading unfamiliar pitches, and rubbing shoulders with Australian quicks. When Hinge wrapped Aaron for a bear hug after SRHs 53-run win, the smiles carried more than just joy. Aaron, who represented India in nine Tests and nine ODIs, knows the pain of injuries all too well. He endured three stress fractures in his back along with hamstring, groin, knee and foot injuries. For Srinivasan, Aarons greatest gift as SRHs bowling coach isnt just technical know-how - its empathy forged in experience. It was Varun's idea to recruit Hinge and Sakib for SRH. Sakib is also very quick, but coming back to Hinge, he kept his discipline and now his progression has to be very carefully monitored. Huge credit to Varun as well hes open to involving a lot of technology and science in the system. Varun bringing science into the system rather than just going through the motions has been beneficial. Varun lives by example and is now a guiding light for Hinge. I can confidently say he knows his onions as simple as that, he said. In December, while the auction played out in Abu Dhabi, Hinge was glued to it on his mobile screen inside a temple. A devotee of Lord Hanuman, he was shortlisted once before, only for injuries to derail his path. This time, SRH snapped him up at his base price of Rs 30 lakh. On Monday, with the new ball in hand, Hinge marked his run-up and what followed is now history. If someone has a dream debut in the IPL like this, izze zyada aur kya chahiye (what else do you need?), said a beaming Prakash. Before the surreal Monday night in Hyderabad, and trips to Chennai and Brisbane, Hinge grew up like countless cricket-mad kids in India - bat in hand and eyes fixed on hitting boundaries. Bowling was nobodys dream; it demanded strength, patience, and sacrifice. At 13, on Prafuls insistence, Prakash enrolled him at the local Gymkhana club - partly to channel his sons restless energy during summer holidays. When Prakash, an accountant recently retired from Maharashtras Electricity Board, dropped by the academy once, he found his son doing what every other boy did - hitting fours and sixes. Thats when he told Praful something that changed the way he played. Everyone becomes a batter, but very few become a bowler. He used to go on our terrace and try to bowl. I told him that you can try now to become a bowler. That was the only word I had and after that, he chose this path and has now made his career in bowling, he said. The family rallied quietly behind Praful - Prakash, his wife Alka, and daughter - a school topper from nursery to tenth standard, and buried in CA coaching - took turns dropping Praful at the academy and picking him up. It was the kind of everyday sacrifice families make, rearranging themselves around a dream without fuss. My daughter was the topper in merit list in the Vidarbha zone in 2014. I just told her to put in the hard work for achieving the dream she had and there was no bothering from my side. I also said the same thing to Praful if you want to play and juggle it with studies, do it. Slowly, slowly, he made the cricket ground his home, he said. The progression through Vidarbha's age-group structures was methodical for Hinge. In the 2019/20 Cooch Behar Trophy, Hinge played 11 matches and picked 36 wickets at an average of 25. In the 2023/24 CK Nayudu Trophy, Hinge featured in seven games, taking 26 wickets at an average of 19. He made his first-class debut for Vidarbha in October 2024 and picked up 16 wickets in the Ranji Trophy at an average of 26.37. His only T20 was against Andhra in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy in December 2025, taking 1-23. Hinge also played a vital hand in Neco Master Blasters' winning the inaugural edition of the Vidarbha Pro T20 League in 2025. The progression through Vidarbha's age-group structures was methodical for Hinge. In the 2019/20 Cooch Behar Trophy, Hinge played 11 matches and picked 36 wickets at an average of 25. In the 2023/24 CK Nayudu Trophy, Hinge featured in seven games, taking 26 wickets at an average of 19. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The work doesnt stop for Hinge now SRH will be back in action on Saturday evening against five-time champions Chennai Super Kings. All eyes will once again be on Hinge to recreate the magic of those two unforgettable overs now forever etched in IPLs history. Article Source: IANS

'It's Been Hard, But Expected': Nayar On KKR's Campaign In IPL 2026

Kolkata Knight Riders: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) head coach Abhishek Nayar admitted that the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 campaign has been a challenging one for the side, citing injuries and an underwhelming start, but asserted that the franchises core values remain unchanged as they gear up to face five time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at MA Chidambaram Stadium on Tuesday. Anyone involved in the IPL, not only as a support staff but also as a player, feels the pressure. Its the best tournament in the world, the most competitive tournament in the world. IPL and tournaments like that test you in every way, Nayar said in a video released by IPL on X. Reflecting on the teams performance so far, Nayar acknowledged that the start has been far from ideal. Yes, its been hard for us. The start has not been the ideal one, even from the standpoint of the support staff. But you expect that. He pointed out that injuries have significantly hampered the teams plans. When you come into a marquee tournament with a number of injuries and players unavailable, you know the challenges are against you. When you lose five or six players, especially bowlers, it becomes difficult to fulfil your plans. KKR prime bowler Harshit Rana was ruled out of the season due to injury. Akash Deep has also not joined the squad, while Matheesha Pathirana, who missed the early matches, has received the NOC and is likely to join the team on April 19. Despite the setbacks, Nayar stressed that the team is not looking for excuses. I dont want to say we are in transition. When we ended the auction, we believed we had a team that could win the championship. We still believe that. Nayar also spoke about Rinku Singh, who has taken on additional responsibility as vice-captain this season. Its a different challenge altogether. Although its not captaincy, it comes with responsibility. I think Rinku has taken it up really well and is slowly getting his head around it. Despite losing three out of four matches and one being abandoned due to rain, Nayar is hopeful that the players will grab the opportunity with both hands and surprise the opposition. Its a different challenge altogether. Although its not captaincy, it comes with responsibility. I think Rinku has taken it up really well and is slowly getting his head around it. Also Read: Live Cricket Score KKR, who came with the biggest purse in the IPL 2026 Auction, has been placed in the last position in the points table with just one point in four matches. Article Source: IANS

Yorkshire Sign Hasan Ali To Replace Naveen-ul-Haq In T20 Blast

T20 World Cup: Yorkshire have signed Pakistan international Hasan Ali as their overseas player for the upcoming T20 Blast. The experienced Pakistani fast bowler will replace Naveen-ul-Haq, who is out due to injury. Naveen suffered a stress fracture in his right shoulder. He had already missed the T20 World Cup earlier this year and will not be available for his stint at Headingley. His absence is a setback for Yorkshire, who had originally signed the Afghan pacer for the competition. With Hasan, the club has found a proven performer in T20 cricket. The 31-year-old has significant experience, having represented Pakistan 57 times in T20 internationals and played in various leagues around the world. His previous performances in English domestic cricket have been impressive, taking 44 wickets at an average of 14.93 over three seasons with Warwickshire from 2023 to 2025. He is also in strong form in the Pakistan Super League. Hasan is expected to be with Yorkshire throughout the Blast group stage. He will also play in two County Championship matches against Warwickshire and Leicestershire, adding depth to the squad across formats. Yorkshires general manager of cricket, Gavin Hamilton, recognised the disappointment of missing Naveen but expressed confidence in their recruit. While we're naturally disappointed that Naveen won't join us this year, in Hasan, we have an exceptional replacement. Hasan is expected to be with Yorkshire throughout the Blast group stage. He will also play in two County Championship matches against Warwickshire and Leicestershire, adding depth to the squad across formats. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The T20 Blast is the oldest domestic T20 league in the world, which was established in 2003 and comprises 18 teams, with 17 in England and 1 in Wales. Article Source: IANS

Stokes Denies Rift With McCullum, But Says He Work With Him In 'different Way'

Wales Cricket Board: England captain Ben Stokes has quashed the talks of a rift with head coach Brendon McCullum, calling it a massive overstatement, but indicated that he may work with the head coach in a slightly different way. England's 4-1 defeat in the Ashes in Australia was described as a systemic failure, with poor preparation and the collapse of the aggressive Bazball approach leaving the side exposed. After an ECB review, the duo have been cleared to hold onto their roles and will continue as a captain-coach pair heading into the next cycle, with a home Ashes slated for 2027. Last month, director of cricket Rob Key said there had been no ust-up between the two. Stokes, McCullum and Key are all to remain in their jobs following a review of the Ashes conducted by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB). In his first interview since the Ashes, Stokes told the ECB, I'm very confident in mine and Brendon's ability to be able to work together because we've done it for such a long period of time now. But work together in a slightly different way. The main point of me and Brendon is our alignment towards winning things and making this team as good as they can be. Stokes and McCullum joined forces in charge of the Test team in 2022 and had instant success, winning 10 of their first 11 Tests. Since then, England have had more losses than wins 17 to 16. When you are in a position of leadership along with someone else, if anyone thinks that you're always going to agree on everything, then it's just impossible, and that's, to me, that just not a healthy I don't think it's a healthy environment for sport in particular where everyone just agrees with everyone or everyone just says yes to the person up there. I'm very confident in mine and Brendon's ability to be able to work together, because we've done it for such a long period of time now. But work together in a slightly different way. The main point of me and Brendon is our alignment towards winning things and making this team as good as they can be,' he added. Stokes and McCullum publicly backed each other at the end of the Ashes, but by that time given differing messages to the media, fuelling suggestions of a rift. It was reported that McCullums job was under threat after Stokes submitted a report blaming the team management for the Ashes defeat, with the reports claiming both men are believed to have pointed fingers at each other during the ECB review meeting. I'm very confident in mine and Brendon's ability to be able to work together, because we've done it for such a long period of time now. But work together in a slightly different way. The main point of me and Brendon is our alignment towards winning things and making this team as good as they can be,' he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score We talk about it between each other, and then we end up getting to the place where we both feel that with my character and Brendan's character we put those two things together, and we'll then end up getting to where we want to get to. But being agreeing on every single thing is just impossible, so saying that we weren't aligned, I think, is a massive overstatement. Article Source: IANS

PCB Imposes Two-year Ban On Muzarabani For Ditching PSL For IPL

The Pakistan Cricket Board: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has taken strict action on Zimbabwe pacer Blessing Muzarabani, imposing a two-year ban, after he ditched Pakistan Super League (PSL) at the last stage to play Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). The 29-year-old had initially gone unsold at both the IPL and PSL auctions before being signed as a replacement player by Islamabad United, but he ditched the team and opted to play in the IPL, where he was announced as a replacement for Mustafizur Rahman, who had been released by KKR on BCCI instructions amid external developments. KKR confirmed the signing, and Muzarabani joined their squad, arriving ahead of the IPL season that started shortly after the PSL. Following a thorough disciplinary review, the PCB has announced that Zimbabwean cricketer Blessing Muzarabani is declared ineligible to participate in the next two (2) editions of the HBL PSL, effective immediately, the PCB said in a statement. The attempt to move away from such commitments without valid cause is a violation of contractual obligations and the principles of good faith that govern global professional sports, it added. PCB, which had earlier imposed a one-year ban on Corbin Bosch last year, believes that the sanction was necessary to safeguard the professional environment of the PSL. The sanction serves as a necessary measure to safeguard the professional environment of the PSL. The PSL remains dedicated to ensuring that the league remains a platform where contractual certainty is respected and where the actions of all players and agents reflect the prestige of the tournament. PCB, which had earlier imposed a one-year ban on Corbin Bosch last year, believes that the sanction was necessary to safeguard the professional environment of the PSL. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Other than Muzarabani, Spencer Johnson and Dasun Shanaka are two other players who withdrew from their PSL deals to be part of the IPL this season, but their punishment has not been announced at this stage. Article Source: IANS

SPNI acquires TV and digital rights for Indian Football League

FanCode, which holds the media rights for the league, has sublicensed the linear television rights to SPNI, with primary telecast on Sony Sports Ten 2

Bihar Has Potential To Perform On Big Stages: BCA Chief Harsh Vardhan Lauds Sakib's Four-fer On IPL Debut

Bihar Cricket Association President: Bihar Cricket Association President (BCA) Harsh Vardhan has lauded the stellar debut of young fast bowler Sakib Hussain in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, calling it a proud moment for state cricket. Harsh Vardhan highlighted that Sakibs performance reflects the growing strength and potential of players emerging from the state and marks a positive step forward for Bihars cricketing ecosystem. Saqib Hussain, hailing from Gopalganj district and representing the Bihar Cricket Association, delivered an impressive performance on his debut for Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL 2026. In his very first match against the Rajasthan Royals, he picked up 4 wickets for 24 runs in his 4 overs, playing a crucial role in his teams victory. Many congratulations to Sakib Hussain on this achievement. The way he bowled in his very first IPL match is a positive sign for Bihar cricket. His performance shows that players from Bihar have the potential to perform on big stages. We hope he continues this consistency in the future, said Harsh Vardhan. Meanwhile, Bihar Cricket Association secretary Ziaul Arfeen also praised Sakibs performance, calling it a matter of pride for the entire Bihar cricket fraternity. He emphasised that Sakibs journey is a testament to hard work and dedication and will inspire many young cricketers from the state to pursue their dreams. Many congratulations to Sakib Hussain on this achievement. The way he bowled in his very first IPL match is a positive sign for Bihar cricket. His performance shows that players from Bihar have the potential to perform on big stages. We hope he continues this consistency in the future, said Harsh Vardhan. Also Read: Live Cricket Score His rise through discipline and consistent effort reflects not only his personal determination but also the steady progress of cricketing infrastructure and opportunities in Bihar. Article Source: IANS

New Zealand All-rounder Amelia Kerr Named ICC Women's Player Of The Month For March

South Africa ODI: New Zealand all-rounder Amelia Kerr has won the ICC Women's Player of the Month award for March after a record-breaking performance against Zimbabwe and South Africa ODI series, both with the bat as well as with the ball. Amelias all-round displays against Zimbabwe and South Africa have led to her being in contention for a third ICC Player of the Month award, while Beth impressed with consistent batting performances against India and the West Indies. Ayabonga, meanwhile, topped the wicket charts in South Africas T20I series in New Zealand before producing a career-best effort in their opening ODI game. Amelia scored 176 runs at a strike rate of 78.57 in four ODIs in March while also grabbing 18 wickets with an economy rate of 3.77. She was the Player of the Series as New Zealand defeated Zimbabwe 3-0 in ODIs, including taking 7-34 in the second match. In six T20Is, she scored 276 runs at a strike rate of 158.62 and took six wickets as she extended her incredible streak of making 11 consecutive scores of 30 or more in the format. Amelia, the top-ranked all-rounder in the shortest format, was also adjudged as the Player of the Series in New Zealands 4-1 T20I series win over South Africa. Amelia scored 176 runs at a strike rate of 78.57 in four ODIs in March while also grabbing 18 wickets with an economy rate of 3.77. She was the Player of the Series as New Zealand defeated Zimbabwe 3-0 in ODIs, including taking 7-34 in the second match. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Australia batter Beth Mooney, who scored 171 runs in two ODIs - an unbeaten 106 in the final ODI of the series against India in Hobart, and South Africa seamer Ayabonga Khaka, who was the leading wicket-taker in their T20I series in New Zealand, grabbing eight wickets in four matches was also nominated but Kerr came on top to bag the player of the month. Article Source: IANS

Stokes: Talk of rift with McCullum is 'massive overstatement'

England captain uses in-house media to break lengthy silence and reaffirm partnership with head coach

Sanju Samson Bags Player Of The Month Award For March After T20 WC Heroics

T20 World Cup: Indian wicketkeeper batter Sanju Samson has been named the ICC men's player of the month for March after a stellar performance in the T20 World Cup 2026 knockouts. This is the first time Samson has won the prestigious title for his World Cup-winning performance. Samson, who began the 2026 Men's T20 World Cup watching from the sidelines, wrote one of the tournament's most dramatic personal arcs once handed an opportunity to be in the team since the Super Eights clash against Zimbabwe in Chennai. He struck an unforgettable 97 not out against the West Indies in a must-win Super Eights fixture in Kolkata before hitting scores of 89 each in the semi-final against England in Mumbai and in the final against New Zealand in Ahmedabad. His efforts helped India retain the title on home soil, as Samson clinched the Player of the Tournament award. Speaking on the honour, Samson reflected on the importance of the award at this juncture of his cricketing journey. Winning the ICC Player of the Month award is an incredible feeling, especially as it comes during what has been the most unforgettable phase of my cricketing journey. Playing a part in Indias triumph at the Mens T20 World Cup was truly a dream realised, and it took some time for the magnitude of that moment to fully sink in, Samson said as quoted by ICC. Speaking on the honour, Samson reflected on the importance of the award at this juncture of his cricketing journey. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Along with Samson, Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah, who played a crucial role in T20 WC 2026, taking out four wickets in the final against New Zealand and South African batter Connor Esterhuizen who shone by scoring 200 runs across five matches for South Africa against New Zealand after the T20 World Cup were also nominated for the player of the month but the 31-year old came on top. Article Source: IANS

USPL Season 4 To Be Held From Nov 20 To Dec 5 In Florida

United States Premier League: The much-anticipated United States Premier League (USPL) season 4 is all set to make a powerful comeback, scheduled to be held from November 20 to December 5 at the Broward County Stadium in Florida. With all regulatory approvals in place, including support from the International Cricket Council (ICC), the league enters its most ambitious edition yet. League plans to add two new franchises for the fourth season. Speaking on the return of the league, USPL founder and chairman Jaideep Singh expressed confidence in the tournaments future and quoted, USPL with its fourth season, now enters into the next stage of it expansion; this year we will be making steps to introduce new layers of entertainment around the USPL brand to attract more fans to the grounds. There are quite a few partnerships and announcements on the charts which will be announced soon. We have been fortunate to have tremendous support from the players and cricket community at large and will continue to be a platform for the emerging talent where they get a chance to play with the best in the world. Its going to be a festival of cricket with bigger names from across the globe with the very best from US cricket for thrilling Games with some exciting entertainment. Season 4 arrives on the back of a spectacular season 3, which saw the New York Cowboys crowned champions, defeating the Maryland Mavericks by seven wickets in a thrilling final at Broward County Stadium. The season was headlined by some of the finest names in international and American cricket, several of whom went on to represent the USA at the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 in India and Sri Lanka, reaffirming USPL's role as the premier development and showcase platform for cricket in the United States. USA captain Monank Patel and ace left-arm pacer Saurabh Netravalkar carried their USPL form into the World Cup stage, while allrounder Shadley Van Schalkwyk added international firepower to the Season 3 lineup. Aaron Jones and the celebrated Unmukt Chand, former India Under-19 World Cup-winning captain, further elevated the competitive quality of the tournament. New York Cowboys' skipper Jake Lintott was the standout performer of the season, his match-winning spell in the final delivering the Cowboys their title. USA captain Monank Patel and ace left-arm pacer Saurabh Netravalkar carried their USPL form into the World Cup stage, while allrounder Shadley Van Schalkwyk added international firepower to the Season 3 lineup. Aaron Jones and the celebrated Unmukt Chand, former India Under-19 World Cup-winning captain, further elevated the competitive quality of the tournament. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Tickets, broadcast details, players registration and auction dates will be announced in the coming months. Article Source: IANS

If Dhoni Is Fit, CSK Should Bring Him In As Impact Player Vs KKR: McClenaghan

Chennai Super Kings: As calf injury forced MS Dhoni out of the first two weeks of IPL 2026, former New Zealand cricketer Mitchell McClenaghan opined that if the wicketkeeper-batter is fit then Chennai Super Kings should bring him in the match against Kolkata Knight Riders on Tuesday as an impact substitute, where he may not have to do a lot of running. On Monday, Dhoni had a short hit in the nets towards the fag end of CSK's training session under lights at Chepauk, but limited himself to facing throwdowns from the support staff, including batting coach Mike Hussey. While he has been training with his teammates, Dhoni is yet to hit full tilt. If MS Dhoni is fit, then CSK should bring him in as the impact player. If the team management feels they need a short burst of runs from him, especially when they are chasing, then bringing him in as the impact sub will allow them to make the best use of his batting abilities. Playing as an impact player will mean he may not have to do a lot of running, McClenaghan told JioStar. Dhoni has missed the first four games for CSK and might miss the fifth one on Tuesday, too. He hasn't been travelling with the team for away matches, nor for their home matches at Chepauk. He is likely to miss his fifth straight game this Tuesday. If MS Dhoni is fit, then CSK should bring him in as the impact player. If the team management feels they need a short burst of runs from him, especially when they are chasing, then bringing him in as the impact sub will allow them to make the best use of his batting abilities. Playing as an impact player will mean he may not have to do a lot of running, McClenaghan told JioStar. Also Read: Live Cricket Score After losing three games on the trot, CSK posted their first win on Sunday against Delhi Capitals. Sanju Samson (115*) and Jamie Overton (4-18) were the architects of the win. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: 'My Only Plan For Praful And Sakib Was To Just Enjoy The Game,' Says SRH Bowling Coach Varun Aaron

Varun Aaron: Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) pace bowling coach Varun Aaron heaped praise on debutants Praful Hinge and Sakib Hussain, who bowled a brilliant spell and took four wickets each as the team registered a dominant 57-run win against Rajasthan Royals (RR). Varun, who played a major role in scouting both the young pacers for SRH, revealed that his only message for Sakib and Praful before the match was to enjoy the debut game and not think about the result, which worked in the team's favour. My only plan for them was to just enjoy the game because you debut only once in any format of cricket. Considering where theyve come from, what theyve done today is massive, and youve just got to enjoy it. My only plea before the game was that if I didnt see them enjoying it, Id be really angry, and they truly did enjoy it. We all did, Varun told reporters after the match. Varun also lauded the conviction of Praful to get the wicket of Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. Revealing the pre-match conversation, the former Indian fast bowler said, The conversation was that he wanted to go around the wicket, and I was like, No, you just stay over the wicket. Im sure youll get him out. I mean, its teamwork, you know. At the end of the day, all credit goes to Praful. He had the conviction to get Vaibhav out. He said, Ive gotten Vaibhav out before, Im going to get him out today. But the plan was his, the conviction was his, and Im really happy for him, Varun added. Praful had a dream debut as he picked three wickets in his very first over, becoming the first bowler in IPL history to take three wickets in the opening over of an innings. He registered the figures of 4-34 in his four overs over quota. I mean, its teamwork, you know. At the end of the day, all credit goes to Praful. He had the conviction to get Vaibhav out. He said, Ive gotten Vaibhav out before, Im going to get him out today. But the plan was his, the conviction was his, and Im really happy for him, Varun added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With the help of contributions from both the bowlers, SRH bowled out RR for just 159 in 19 overs while chasing a mammoth total of 218 runs, and registered their second win of the season. Article Source: IANS

Praful, Sakib Have Shown The Indian Bowling Future Is In Safe Hands: McClenaghan

Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium: After Sunrisers Hyderabad snapped Rajasthan Royals four-match winning run in IPL 2026 with a comprehensive 57-run victory, former New Zealand cricketer Mitchell McClenaghan heaped praise on the debut heroics of 'Fearless Prodigies' Sakib Hussain and Praful Hinge, saying they have shown that the future of Indian bowling is in safe hands. Praful Hinge and Sakib Hussain announced themselves on the grand stage by picking eight wickets collectively as SRH ended IPL 2026 table topper RR's winning juggernaut with a thumping 53-run win at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on Monday. This fearless prodigy Sakib Hussain looks very talented. At the start of the chase, he got the big wicket of Yashasvi Jaiswal with the new ball. That wicket put the brakes on Rajasthans top order and their chances of chasing 217. Later, he showed his ability to bowl the slower ball, and his ability to nail them took everyone by surprise. His slower delivery gave Mustafizur Rahman vibes, and he feels like a right-handed version of Mustafizur. Praful had a dream debut as he picked three wickets in his very first over, becoming the first bowler in IPL history to take three wickets in the opening over of an innings. He registered the figures of 4-34 in his four overs over quota. Hussain, who came in as an Impact Sub for Travis Head, picked 4-24, including the wicket of opener Yashasvi Jaiswal before dismantling RR's lower order. You also have to credit another fearless prodigy, Praful Hinge. He changed his line and length really well. The first ball to Vaibhav Suryavanshi, he bowled a sharp bumper that caught him off guard and led to his dismissal. Against Dhruv Jurel, he bowled a fourth-stump line, and the inside edge hit the stumps a peach of a delivery. Hussain, who came in as an Impact Sub for Travis Head, picked 4-24, including the wicket of opener Yashasvi Jaiswal before dismantling RR's lower order. Also Read: Live Cricket Score --IANS Article Source: IANS

Klaasen, Kishan make it SRH 1-2 in Orange Cap race

Ravi Bishnoi, meanwhile, stayed in second place in the wicket charts as he went wicketless against SRH

Shubman Gill, Deepti Sharma Headline Wisden Cricket Awards 2026 Winners

Indian cricketers, including men's Test captain Shubman Gill and women's star Deepti Sharma, dominated the Wisden cricket awards announced on Monday. The UK-based Wisden Cricketers' Almanack, which dates back to 1864, is an annual record of all major cricket worldwide and is regarded as the sport's Bible. The publication named four Indian players who starred in a thrilling 2-2 drawn Test series in England last year among its five cricketers of the year. Batter Gill, spin-bowling all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant and fast bowler Mohammed Siraj were all on the list. The only English player in the group of five was former Test opener Haseeb Hameed, who led Nottinghamshire to the County Championship in 2025. Players can only receive the award once in their careers and it is based predominantly on performances during the previous English season. Gill also received the Wisden Trophy for Test performance of the year after he scored 269 and 161 in the second Test at Edgbaston. Deepti Sharma succeeds compatriot Smriti Mandhana as Wisden's leading women's cricketer of the year for her all-round performances in India's 50-over World Cup triumph, with Australia fast bowler Mitchell Starc receiving the men's award. The prolific Abhishek Sharma was named Wisden's leading T20 cricketer of the year. Wisden editor Lawrence Booth, however, criticised the increasing Indian influence on English domestic cricket's Hundred, with four of the eight franchises now linked to owners of Indian Premier League teams after a huge influx of private investment. The competition's new ownership structure risks turning The Hundred into an IPL proxy event, more for the benefit of Indian businessmen than English cricket, wrote Booth. He also pulled no punches in labelling England's woeful Ashes campaign as feckless, reckless and legless. England, humiliated 4-1 by Australia, were criticised for insufficient planning, confused tactics and an over-relaxed approach to off-field behaviour, highlighted by reports of excessive drinking during a mid-tour break. In the game's long history, it is hard to think of a privilege so carelessly squandered, a chance so blithely spurned, wrote Booth. Also Read: Live Cricket Score England were feckless, reckless and legless. These were the wing-and-a-prayer Ashes and England got what they deserved. What a waste. What a shame.

Mitchell Starc, Deepti Sharma named as Wisden's Leading Cricketers in the World

Four Indians among Five Cricketers of Year in latest edition of Wisden Cricketers' Almanack

Kusal, Muqeem keep Peshawar Zalmi at No. 1

A topsy-turvy game eventually went in Zalmi's favour after a tidy bowling performance in the slog overs

Praful Hinge's stunning debut ends RR's four-match winning streak

SRH posted 216 on the back of Kishan's 91, before Hinge and fellow debutant Sakib shared eight wickets

IPL 2026: Debutants Hinge, Sakib Pick Four Scalps Each As SRH End RR's Winning Run

Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium: Debutant pacers Praful Hinge and Sakib Hussain announced themselves on the grand stage by picking eight wickets collectively as Sunrisers Hyderabad ended IPL 2026 table topper Rajasthan Royals winning juggernaut with a thumping 53-run win at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on Monday. In a script that felt more like a fairytale, Nagpur-based Hinge became the first bowler in IPL history to claim a three-wicket haul in the opening over. He broke the back of RRs mighty top order to end up with 4-34. Hussain, hailing from Gopalganj in Bihar, provided the clinical finish and remained unflappable to pick with 4-24. For RR, who were at 9/5, a partnership of 118 between Donovan Ferreira (69) and Ravindra Jadeja (45) - the second-highest stand for the sixth wicket or lower in the IPL, saved the side from being shot out for a low total, as they eventually folded at 159 in 19 overs. SRHs gamble of blooding two debutants coming in place of experienced campaigners Harshal Patel and Jaydev Unadkat proved to be a masterstroke. The victory is SRH's second in five games and catapults them to fourth spot on the points table, with their campaign firmly back on track. On the very first ball of his spell, Hinge did what the likes of Jasprit Bumrah and Josh Hazlewood hadnt managed to do this season: dismiss Vaibhav Sooryavanshi cheaply. Sooryavanshis eyes lit up on seeing the short ball and went for an expansive pull, but the top-edge was caught by keeper Salil Arora, leaving Hinge and SRH jubilant. It was the start of a sensational spell for Hinge he had Dhruv Jurel chopping on to his stumps, before having Lhuan-dre Pretorius flick straight to long leg. The astonishing dream start made Hinge the first-ever bowler to pick three wickets in the opening over of an IPL innings. The nightmare continued for RR, as Hinge removed skipper Riyan Parag just one ball after being whipped disdainfully through mid-wicket. He enticed Parag to chase a lovely outswinger, which the RR skipper edged to slip. From the other end, fellow debutant pacer Sakib Hossain got his first IPL scalp as Yashasvi Jaiswal upper-cut a short ball with extra bounce to deep backward point, as RR lost five scalps even before the third over was completed. With the games result rendered a foregone conclusion, Ravindra Jadeja and Donovan Ferreira steadied RRs ship with an aim to avoid having a huge dent on the net run rate. With the pair taking RR past 49, it meant they avoided the ignominy of the lowest score in the IPL. The duo brought up the fifty of their stand off 35 balls, with Ferreira being lighting quick to pounce on anything loose from spinners Shivang Kumar and Harsh Dubey and sent them over the boundary ropes to bring up his maiden IPL half-century off just 31 deliveries. With the games result rendered a foregone conclusion, Ravindra Jadeja and Donovan Ferreira steadied RRs ship with an aim to avoid having a huge dent on the net run rate. With the pair taking RR past 49, it meant they avoided the ignominy of the lowest score in the IPL. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: Sunrisers Hyderabad 216/6 in 20 overs (Ishan Kishan 91, Heinrich Klaasen 40; Jofra Archer 2-37, Riyan Parag 1-5) beat Rajasthan Royals 159 in 19 overs (Donovan Ferreira 69, Ravindra Jadeja 45; Sakib Hussain 4-24, Praful Hinge 4-34) by 57 runs Article Source: IANS

Northants denied by Ben Compton and rain

Kent escape with unlikely draw thanks to opener's hundred and loss of 60 overs on final day

IPL 2026: Vidarbha Pacer Praful Hinge Makes Dream Debut With Triple Strike In First Over

Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium: Vidarbha pacer Praful Hinge announced himself on the big stage by picking three wickets in his very first over for Sunrisers Hyderabad in their IPL 2026 clash against Rajasthan Royals at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on Monday. Hinge, 24, was picked up by SRH at his base price of Rs 30 lakh at last years auction in Abu Dhabi and made an instant impact by dismissing teenaged batting sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi for a first-ball duck before removing Dhruv Jurel and South African recruit Lhuan-dre Pretorius in the same over. In doing so, Hinge became the first bowler in IPL history to take three wickets in the opening over of an innings. Tall and nippy, Hinge uses his frame effectively to generate bounce and seam movement. He represents Vidarbha in domestic cricket, and made his senior debut across formats in the 2024/25 season. Hinge has featured in 10 first-class matches, taking 27 wickets at an average of 26.66, besides picking five wickets in six List A games. His exposure to T20 cricket has been limited, as he played just one senior match before the IPL, where he claimed 1/23 against Andhra in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. Hinges rise has been built on steady progression. He has trained at the MRF Pace Foundation in Chennai since 2022, where he came under notice of former India pacer and current SRH pace bowling coach Varun Aaron. He even attended a 15-day camp in Brisbane in 2024. Hinge has featured in 10 first-class matches, taking 27 wickets at an average of 26.66, besides picking five wickets in six List A games. His exposure to T20 cricket has been limited, as he played just one senior match before the IPL, where he claimed 1/23 against Andhra in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. Also Read: Live Cricket Score He also draws inspiration from India and fellow Vidarbha pacer Umesh Yadav. For now, Mondays breath-taking spell has instantly turned the little-known Hinge into one of the talking points of IPL 2026, as he bowled a debut spell to remember for ages. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Preparation Has Been Good And Hopefully Its Around The Corner, Says Allen On KKR Form

The Kolkata Knight Riders: Reflecting on his starts and overall approach, Finn Allen admitted that while he has made promising contributions in the powerplay for Kolkata Knight Riders, converting them into bigger scores remains a work in progress, stressing the importance of balancing aggression with consistency in T20 cricket. KKR have had a tough start to their campaign this season. They went down by six wickets to the Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium and, upon returning home, suffered a crushing 65-run defeat against Sunrisers Hyderabad. Their third match against the Punjab Kings was abandoned due to rain, which gave them a solidarity point. They suffered a shocking defeat at the hands of Lucknow Super Giants in their last match. Leaving them with just one point in four matches. Its the nature of T20 cricket, trying to take the game on. Its only been a couple of games, so you cant judge too much. Personally, Ive had good starts in the first two games, but I would have liked to kick on more. Preparation has been good and hopefully its around the corner, said Allen. Its easy to get caught up in thinking you need to go harder, especially with an extra batter in the side. But for me, I know I can score quickly when Im going well. Its about not getting carried away and finding the balance between giving yourself a chance to get set and playing positively. The team has been losing the bowlers even before the start of the tournament. KKR lost Bangladeshi fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) asked the franchise to release him from the squad, and their prime pacer Harshit Rana was also ruled out due to injury The Kolkata Knight Riders batter also credited Shane Watson for his calming influence and guidance, adding that the teams preparation has been solid as they look to execute better and get their campaign back on track in the upcoming clash against Chennai. Ive had a lot of experience with Watto (Shane Watson) now. Hes got a world of knowledge and a lot of experience. Hes really good to talk to when it comes to batting and stays calm. He understands how to bring me back when things are too well or not well. Five-time champions CSK, captained by Ruturaj Gaikwad, will take on Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in Chennai on Tuesday evening, after getting off the mark on the points table with a 23-run win over Delhi Capitals (DC). Ive had a lot of experience with Watto (Shane Watson) now. Hes got a world of knowledge and a lot of experience. Hes really good to talk to when it comes to batting and stays calm. He understands how to bring me back when things are too well or not well. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The last game went down to the wire. If we win that, were flying. So, we take the same mindset into the game against Chennai get that win and get our season underway. Article Source: IANS

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IPL 2026: A Lot Better Intensity From My Side, I Am Very Pleased With It, Says Klaasen

Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium: Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) batter Heinrich Klaasen felt he had much-better intensity while making 40 and play a vital hand in the side posting a massive 216/6 against Rajasthan Royals at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on Monday. Klaasen struck three sixes and a four during his 26-ball stay at the crease, while sharing an 88-run stand with Ishan Kishan, who top-scored with 91. I reckon about a 7 (rating for his innings). A lot better intensity from my side. I felt a lot better. So I'm very pleased with that. This may be a little bit there at the back-end when we lost Ishan. Drinks break in between and I just lost a little bit of momentum. But before that, I was quite happy with the intensity and the way I've been striking the ball, Klaasen said in a mid-innings chat with the broadcasters. He also observed that while the pitch was conducive to run-making, RRs bowlers made life difficult once they adjusted their lines. It's a nice wicket tonight. The moment they into the wide yorkers and slower balls, it was a little bit difficult. This may be a little bit there at the back-end when we lost Ishan. Drinks break in between and I just lost a little bit of momentum. But before that, I was quite happy with the intensity and the way I've been striking the ball, Klaasen said in a mid-innings chat with the broadcasters. Also Read: Live Cricket Score One of the highlights of the evening was Klaasens maximum against pacer Nandre Burger, something which he attributed more to the quality of his bat than timing the ball. No, he's done me by pace there. So I was very happy that I've got quality bats. I brought out the heavy ones tonight to have a little bit more ping. So luckily I've got quality bats and that went over the boundary, but he's completely done me there, he added. Article Source: IANS

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IPL 2026: Ishan Kishan Top-scores With 91 As SRH Post 216/6 Against RR

Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium: Captain Ishan Kishan top-scored with a blistering 91 as Sunrisers Hyderabad posted a towering 216/6 against Rajasthan Royals at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on Monday. Jofra Archer silenced the sell-out Uppal crowd by dismissing Abhishek Sharma on the very first delivery. Travis Head struggled for rhythm, but Kishan operated on a different level. Anything full and wide was crashed through the off side with lightning hands, while short balls were dealt with authoritative pulls and whips to bring up his 19th IPL fifty. He hammered eight fours and six sixes in his 44-ball 91, and was the dominant partner in an 88-run stand for the third wicket with Heinrich Klaasen (40) that shifted momentum entirely. Late fireworks from Nitish Kumar Reddy (28) and Salil Arora (24 not out) ensured a clinical finish. Pushed into batting first, SRH had an awful start. Abhishek Sharma charged down on Archers first ball and mistimed to third man for a golden duck. It was Archers fourth first-ball wicket in the IPL, while Abhishek bagged his seventh duck in T20s this year. However, Archers second over brought him back to earth as Kishan whipped him for four, before pulling a bouncer for six and launching Sandeep Sharma down the ground. Nandre Burger nearly dismissed Travis Head twice in the fourth over - a nip-backer took an inside edge for four, while a mistimed loft just evaded Archer. But a rusty Head holed out to long-on off Riyan Parag just after the fifty was raised in the power-play. Kishan marched forward to bring his fifty in 30 balls with a monstrous slog sweep off Ravi Bishnoi and brought up SRHs hundred by smoking Tushar Deshpande for six. Kishan then smashed three boundaries off Deshpande via a wristy flick and a brace of slices, as 21 runs came off the 11th over as the fifty-partnership with Klaasen arrived in just 26 deliveries. Kishan continued to tear into Archer, carving him through backward point, long-on, and deep mid-wicket for three fours. Following a floodlight failure break, Kishan fell nine runs short of his century, miscuing a pull off Sandeep to keeper Dhruv Jurel, who survived a collision with the pacer. Two overs later, Klaasen chipped straight to extra cover off Archer. Kishan then smashed three boundaries off Deshpande via a wristy flick and a brace of slices, as 21 runs came off the 11th over as the fifty-partnership with Klaasen arrived in just 26 deliveries. Kishan continued to tear into Archer, carving him through backward point, long-on, and deep mid-wicket for three fours. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: Sunrisers Hyderabad 216/6 in 20 overs (Ishan Kishan 91, Heinrich Klaasen 40; Jofra Archer 2-37, Riyan Parag 1-5) against Rajasthan Royals Article Source: IANS