Barnard, Woakes lead Warwickshire fightback as Tongue claims five
Notts pushed back after making early inroads as visiting skipper notches unbeaten hundred
IPL 2026: I've Been Working Hard To Get Where I Am, Says Devdutt Padikkal After Fiery Fifty Vs GT
Indian Premier League: Devdutt Padikkals comeback continued to gain steam as his impressive 55 off 27 balls set the stage for Royal Challengers Bengalurus five-wicket victory over Gujarat Titans in the Indian Premier League 2026 at M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Friday. Reflecting on his return to form, Padikkal emphasised the effort behind the scenes. Feels great. I've been working hard to get where I am, and I'm glad its paying off. I think a lot of this is thanks to the self-belief that the management has given me. At the same time, Ive made some technical changes in the past few years. You have to stick to those changes. Now I am seeing the results. Chasing a tough target of 205, RCB needed a strong start, and Padikkal delivered just that. He took on the pace of Kagiso Rabada and Mohammed Siraj confidently, hitting boundaries and maintaining the required run rate. One shot stood outa beautiful lofted drive over extra coverwhich he highlighted: It was probably my favourite shot of the day for sure. Padikkal approached the innings with a clear strategy rather than recklessness. At the end of the day, I need to play according to the situation and assess whats happening out there. We were chasing 210, so we needed to make the most of the Power-play and keep the momentum going for the next few overs, he explained. This clarity showed as he dominated the middle overs, taking apart Prasidh Krishna and applying pressure on Rashid Khan with a mix of sweeps and lofted shots. Chasing a tough target of 205, RCB needed a strong start, and Padikkal delivered just that. He took on the pace of Kagiso Rabada and Mohammed Siraj confidently, hitting boundaries and maintaining the required run rate. One shot stood outa beautiful lofted drive over extra coverwhich he highlighted: It was probably my favourite shot of the day for sure. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Looking ahead, Padikkal expressed his desire to contribute more significantly. I want to help finish games, so hopefully I can do that soon, he said, while also recognising the depth of talent that gives him freedom to perform at the top. We've seen what Tim, Romario, and Jitesh can do down the order, so with that kind of firepower, you can feel free to go out and express yourself. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: We Needed To Take Wickets, Says GT Skipper Gill After Five-wicket Defeat Vs RCB
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Shubman Gill did not shy away from pinpointing where the game slipped for the Gujarat Titans after their five-wicket defeat against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the 34th match of the Indian Premier League (2026) at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Friday. Definitely. From the 16th to the 19th, those three overs, we couldn't get any boundaries. Those overs were crucial for us. At the end of the Power-play, we were in a good situation. We needed to take wickets, he said. I mean, when a batsman gets dropped on nought, it's always tough on the fielder. But it's about how you come back in the game. We had our moments. But we weren't able to hit the right lengths consistently, which was important. But they batted very well in the middle overs. The dropped chance he referred to allowed Virat Kohli to flourish, and the veteran made GT pay with a commanding 81 off 44 balls. Alongside him, Devdutt Padikkal produced a stunning 55 off 27, dismantling the attack through the middle overs. Their partnership ensured RCB stayed ahead of the asking rate, even as GTs bowlers searched for control. Gill admitted there was some assistance in the pitch, particularly from Krunal Pandyas bowling: When we were batting, the balls that Krunal bowled, it was gripping a bit. I thought if we could get a few wickets, we would come back in the game. Earlier, the Gujarat Titans had posted a formidable 205/3, powered by a superb century from Sai Sudharsan, who struck 100 off 58 balls and became the fastest to 2000 IPL runs. Contributions from Gill and Jos Buttler added heft, but the total ultimately proved insufficient. Alongside him, Devdutt Padikkal produced a stunning 55 off 27, dismantling the attack through the middle overs. Their partnership ensured RCB stayed ahead of the asking rate, even as GTs bowlers searched for control. Gill admitted there was some assistance in the pitch, particularly from Krunal Pandyas bowling: When we were batting, the balls that Krunal bowled, it was gripping a bit. I thought if we could get a few wickets, we would come back in the game. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Gill also hinted at expectations from his top order moving forward: He was quite upset with the way he got out in the previous game. But in the upcoming games, hopefully, he gives me some more strike in the Power-play. It was a telling note from a captain whose side had their chancesbut were ultimately outplayed in the moments that mattered most. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: It Was Always Coming, Says Sudharsan After Scoring A Century Against RCB
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Sai Sudharsan played a calm yet strong innings, leading Gujarat Titans to a solid score of 205/3 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 match at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. After scoring 100 off 58 balls, he said his innings was as much about finishing well as about finding form. It was always coming. I was touching the ball well in the last few innings and was really grateful to God. Really happy to contribute to the team. I think with the level of communication we understood it was two-paced and sticky, and it was a natural instinct to take the game deeper. The left-handed batter had a challenging start as Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood found early movement, beating his outside edge and concerning him with bounce. A fortunate edge for four helped him settle in, but once the conditions improved, Sudharsan picked up the pace. He started finding boundaries with accuracy and hit the first six of the innings in the fifth over. He dominated the powerplay, reaching 41 off 27 balls as GT scored 57/0, before smoothly moving into the middle overs. Combining smart aggression with effective strike rotation, he reached his half-century in 33 balls. Then, he stepped it up further, taking on Romario Shepherd and Krunal Pandya with inventive shots, including a daring uppercut for six. The left-handed batter had a challenging start as Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood found early movement, beating his outside edge and concerning him with bounce. A fortunate edge for four helped him settle in, but once the conditions improved, Sudharsan picked up the pace. He started finding boundaries with accuracy and hit the first six of the innings in the fifth over. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Even with this achievement, Sudharsan kept his focus on the bigger goal. I have such high standards for myself, I want to always put my team in a good position. I've been starting well but not finishing well, so it was more than just a century for me. I didn't try to take too much control of the innings and let go. I let it go really well today. I personally feel it is a really good score for the bowlers. Not so easy to play shots as it's not so true. Article Source: IANS
DC have lots of catching up to do to give PBKS a fight
Rehan Ahmed has joined Delhi Capitals whereas Cooper Connolly is available for Punjab Kings after a quick trip to Australia
Cummins set to return and take back SRH captaincy
Parag's form under the scanner as RR host SRH in Jaipur
Hockey Olympian Gurbax Singh Grewal Passes In Chandigarh, Aged 84
Hockey Olympian Gurbax Singh Grewal: Former India international and Mumbai Hockey Association (MHA) secretary Gurbax Singh Grewal, who was a member of the national team that won a bronze medal in the 1968 Olympic Games in Mexico City, died of a heart attack in Chandigarh on Saturday evening. He was 84. Gurbax Singh, brother of Olympian Balbir Singh, retired as Sports Officer with the Western Railways in Mumbai and was elected as Honorary Secretary of The Mumbai Hockey Association Ltd as part of a team that included former India captain and coach Joaquim Carvalho. Born on April 1, 1942, in Lyallpur, Punjab Province of British India, near present-day Faisalabad in Pakistan, Gurbax came to Mumbai in his 20s to play hockey for the Western Railways in Mumbai. He, along with his brother Balbir Singh, was part of the Indian team that won a bronze medal in the 1968 Olympic Games in Mexico. Gurbax Singh, brother of Olympian Balbir Singh, retired as Sports Officer with the Western Railways in Mumbai and was elected as Honorary Secretary of The Mumbai Hockey Association Ltd as part of a team that included former India captain and coach Joaquim Carvalho. Also Read: Live Cricket Score After retiring from Western Railways as Sports Officer, Gurbax contested elections for the Mumbai Hockey Association and was elected Honorary Secretary in 2010. The renovation of the MHA's Mahindra Stadium happened during his tenure after the MHA and MCA reached an agreement on the transfer of land to the cricket association to install the floodlights for the Wankhede Stadium ahead of the 2010 World Cup. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Sai Sudharsan Becomes Fastest Batter To Reach 2000 Runs
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Sai Sudharsan made Indian Premier League (IPL) history by becoming the fastest batter to reach 2,000 runs, achieving this milestone in just 47 innings during the Gujarat Titans game against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Bengaluru on Friday. The left-hander surpassed Chris Gayle, who previously held the record by reaching the mark in 48 innings. Sudharsan now has over 2,000 runs from 47 matches with an impressive average and strike rate, showing his consistency at the top of the order with several fifties and centuries. Interestingly, this milestone comes in what has been a modest IPL 2026 season for Sudharsan. He scored only 135 runs in his first six innings, including just one fifty against the Rajasthan Royals, and had trouble converting good starts in other games. He became only the second player, after Shubman Gill, to hit this milestone for the franchise. At the end of nine overs, he was batting 85 off 49 balls and led the innings with nine fours and four sixes. The left-hander also became one of the fastest players to reach this mark in terms of balls faced, totalling 1,361. He joined an elite group that includes Abhishek Sharma, Virender Sehwag, and Rishabh Pant, highlighting his consistency and impact. Interestingly, this milestone comes in what has been a modest IPL 2026 season for Sudharsan. He scored only 135 runs in his first six innings, including just one fifty against the Rajasthan Royals, and had trouble converting good starts in other games. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Meanwhile, Virat Kohli is nearing another significant milestone. The RCB star, already the highest run-scorer in IPL history, now needs just 92 runs to become the first player to reach 9,000 IPL runs, adding another potential landmark to the competition. Article Source: IANS
BCL round-up: Pritom, Amite, Akbar tons give North and East Zones winning start
Pritom, Amite and Akbar hit centuries this week, while Sofor and Robiul grabbed five-wicket hauls
IPL 2026: Happy To Bat At No.3 If The Team Asks Me To Do It, Says DCs Tristan Stubbs
Indian Premier League: Delhi Capitals (DC) middle-order batter Tristan Stubbs said he has no reservations about batting at No.3 if the team demands it, adding that his past experiences of holding the fort in tough situations will come of huge help if slotted in the top order for their upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 clash against Punjab Kings. DC, with three wins from six games, will be looking to arrest their inconsistency in the competition when they host table-toppers PBKS, who remain the only unbeaten team in IPL 2026, at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi on Saturday afternoon. Stubbs has drawn attention for his calmness while playing a big part in bailing DC out of tough situations against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), with scores of 39 not out and 60 not out, respectively. In all, Stubbs has aggregated 196 runs from six innings at an average of 65.3 and a strike rate of 137. I think being in the middle order in general, you come in different situations all the time. So you are sort of mentally prepared for that, but you also have past experiences you have had in those types of situations. So, I don't really mind where I come in. Then, going up the order, if the team asks me to do it, I will be more than happy to do it. So, yeah, that's about it, Stubbs told reporters on the eve of the match. He credited his adaptability to shift gears as per the situation to a career spent batting across multiple positions, and the experience gained through playing Test cricket for South Africa. Like I said, I have batted through my whole career pretty much. I have batted three in one game and six in the next game. So, it changes all the time, and that sort of allowed me, with Test cricket, to be able to try and change gears and do what I think is right out there. Those two games, fortunately, the rate never got away from us. So, there was always one partnership in both those games, and that's about it. I firmly believe in batting in partnerships, and that's what I try to do my best, he said. But Stubbs' overall scoring rate this season has remained on the conservative side. In IPL 2026, he has been too slow and failed to accelerate in the manner he managed to do in the last two editions. The breakdown of his strike rates across phases, as per stats from Cricket-21, highlights the dip in Stubbs' tempo. Since 2024, his strike rate in the first 10 balls has hovered around 127, but in 2026, it has dropped to 118. The middle phase (balls 1120) has seen a sharper decline from 282 in 2024 and 189 in 2025 to just 144 this season. For balls above 21, Stubbs' finishing burst has also lost some sting, sliding from 233 in 2024 and 155 in 2025 to 149 in 2026. One can hope that Stubbs' potential promotion to No.3 can arrest this slide and bring about a turnaround in his strike rates across phases. On what to expect from the pitch for the high-stakes mid-season clash, Stubbs said, I think from the World Cup to still here now, we haven't really seen here like an absolute belter. So, it will probably be pretty similar. Hopefully, it's really low, ragging, and 120 plays 120 - that'll be great, he said with a smile. DC have faced questions about their batting consistency this season, including their inability to chase down anything 200 and beyond. But Stubbs pushed back against the notion, adding that once the small moments align together, they can show their best batting performance in the competition. One can hope that Stubbs' potential promotion to No.3 can arrest this slide and bring about a turnaround in his strike rates across phases. On what to expect from the pitch for the high-stakes mid-season clash, Stubbs said, I think from the World Cup to still here now, we haven't really seen here like an absolute belter. So, it will probably be pretty similar. Hopefully, it's really low, ragging, and 120 plays 120 - that'll be great, he said with a smile. Also Read: Live Cricket Score On a bad day, we have won three out of six. But also, when we've lost it, we've still scored 190. We know a couple of small moments here and there in the games that we're scoring these big scores. We're not too worried. Everyone's really positive and everyone's batting well, so that's quite exciting, he signed off. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: 'I Visualise These Situations,' Says Jadeja On His Fighting Knock Vs LSG
Lucknow Super Giants: Rajasthan Royals all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja credited his mental preparation and ability to visualise pressure scenarios for his match-winning performance in RRs 40-run victory over Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 clash at the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow on Wednesday. I had a magic wand in my pocket. As soon as I put my hand in it, I felt something. Why did you move ahead in such a team? I have played in such a situation for so many years. My batting has never been in such a situation in my entire career. I have played in such a situation very rarely. I have got used to this thing, Jadeja said in a video released by Rajasthan Royals on Friday. In a low-scoring encounter, Jadejas unbeaten 43 off 29 balls lifted Rajasthan Royals to 159/6, with a crucial late flourish alongside Shubham Dubey. His late assault, including a 20-run final over, proved decisive on a tricky surface. Reflecting on his mindset, Jadeja emphasised the importance of mental rehearsal. This thing keeps running in my mind. This situation can also come in a T20 game. If the wicket fell 3-4, then I would have to go and handle the batting. I visualise this and see myself in the same situation. I get a lot of help in this. I keep thinking about that situation. I get a lot of benefit from it, he said. Defending 159, which is the lowest total successfully defended this season, RR's bowlers produced a clinical effort to bundle out LSG for just 119 in 18 overs. Jofra Archer starred with 3-20, while Nandre Burger and Brijesh Sharma picked up two wickets each as LSG slumped to their fourth straight loss despite Mitchell Marshs fighting 55. Jadeja noted that the pitch conditions played a significant role in shaping his approach with both bat and ball. Wicket was not that easy. Personally, I felt that it was not a typical T20 wicket. There were some fast bowlers on the wicket. There was a seam. There was a swing, too. It was not that easy to hit a shot in the T20 format in today's wicket. Jadeja, who also took one crucial wicket, explained his bowling strategy, where he mixed his pace effectively to trouble the LSG batters. When I came to bowl, I felt that I could use the pace of the ball. My plan succeeded. When I was batting, I felt that the ball was not coming well on the bat. It was getting stuck. There was a little grip, he said. Jadeja, who also took one crucial wicket, explained his bowling strategy, where he mixed his pace effectively to trouble the LSG batters. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Meanwhile, with this win, the Rajasthan Royals are placed at number 2 in the points table with five wins in seven matches. They will next face Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at their home ground, Sawai Mansingh Stadium, on Saturday. Article Source: IANS
Bethell in for Salt as RCB bowl; GT bring in Holder
Holder came in for Phillips, and Suthar for Ashok Sharma for GT
IPL 2026: Bethell Replaces Injured Phil Salt As RCB Elect To Bowl Against GT
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) won the toss and elected to bowl against Gujarat Titans (GT) in Match 34 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, on Friday. RCB opener Phil Salt has picked up an injury, as his countryman Jacob Bethell replaced him in the playing eleven. For GT, Jason Holder, Rahul Tewatia, and Manav Suthar come in for Prasidh Krishna, Glenn Philips, and Ashok Sharma. RCB captain Rajat Patidar said, It's pretty obvious we want to bowl first. As we all know, chasing gives a sort of clarity about the wicket and the score. There's one change. Salty got injured, and Bethell comes in. On doing well at home, he said, A great point that I like, we are assessing the wicket and the situation pretty well. Of course, there's a lot of planning behind it. Whenever you come here to Chinnaswamy, it's a good wicket to bat on. There's no grass on it. It might be a bit tacky in the first innings. GT captain Shubman Gill said, Not really. Generally, on this ground, teams have had success chasing. But it looks like a good wicket. Honestly, it's about assessing the conditions quickly. If you can get a good Power-play, you can build on that. Just keep mounting on the good start. On losing their previous game, Gill said, Games like that in tournaments like this can happen. But it's about reminding us what has worked for us as a team and backing ourselves. We have a couple of changes. Jason Holder comes, and he is making his debut tonight. Manav also comes in. Playing XIs: Gujarat Titans: Shubman Gill (c), B Sai Sudharsan, Jos Buttler (wk), Washington Sundar, Jason Holder, Rahul Tewatia, Shahrukh Khan, Rashid Khan, Manav Suthar, Kagiso Rabada, Mohammed Siraj. Impact substitutes: Prasidh Krishna, Anuj Rawat, Glenn Phillips, Nishant Sindhu, Arshad Khan Gujarat Titans: Shubman Gill (c), B Sai Sudharsan, Jos Buttler (wk), Washington Sundar, Jason Holder, Rahul Tewatia, Shahrukh Khan, Rashid Khan, Manav Suthar, Kagiso Rabada, Mohammed Siraj. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Impact substitutes: Jacob Bethell, Jordan Cox, Mangesh Yadav, Vicky Ostwal, Venkatesh Iyer Article Source: IANS
'We're walking away stronger for it' - Walter on NZ's depth despite series loss
After claiming a 1-0 lead, NZ ended up losing the three-match series in challenging conditions in Bangladesh
IPL 2026: When And Where To Watch RR Vs SRH, Know All Details
Indian Premier League: 2008 champions Rajasthan Royals (RR) will clash with 2016 winners Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the match number 36 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 to be played at Sawai Mansingh Stadium on Saturday. This will be the first rematch of the IPL 2026. SRH and RR previously faced each other on April 13 at Rajiv Gandhi Stadium in Hyderabad. SRH produced a dominant display both with the bat and ball as they bowled out RR for just 159 runs in 19 overs while chasing a total of 216 and won the match by 57 runs. SRH is coming to the contest after a dominant win over the Delhi Capitals. They have won four out of seven matches and are placed at number four in the points table with eight points and a positive net run rate of +0.820. The Rajasthan Royals are also entering the match with a big victory over the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in their last match. They have won five out of seven matches and are placed at number 2 in the points table with 10 points and a positive net run rate of 0.790. When: Saturday, April 25, 7:30 PM IST Where: Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur Where to watch: The RR vs SRH match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Squads: Where to watch: The RR vs SRH match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Rajasthan Royals: Riyan Parag (c), Dhruv Jurel, Donovan Ferreira, Lhuan-Dre Pretorius, Ravi Singh, Aman Perala, Shimron Hetmyer, Shubham Dubey, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ravindra Jadeja, Dasun Shanaka, Adam Milne, Brijesh Sharma, Jofra Archer, Kuldeep Sen, Kwena Maphaka, Nandre Burger, Ravi Bishnoi, and Sandeep Sharma Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: PBKS Unbeaten Run A Product Of Culture Built Last Year, Says Spin Bowling Coach Bahutule
Arun Jaitley Stadium: Punjab Kings spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule has attributed the franchise's unbeaten run in IPL 2026 to the culture and values instilled by head coach Ricky Ponting and captain Shreyas Iyer from last year. PBKS head into Saturday's afternoon fixture against Delhi Capitals at the Arun Jaitley Stadium as the only unbeaten side in the tournament, and Bahutule was emphatic in saying that the groundwork was laid well before this season began. See, I think it started from last year and the way they have played and operated on the field from last year. I think the culture which has been built by Ricky, the values which have been built by him from last year itself, have been taken forward this year. So the success of last year, whatever, yes, we didn't go further and win the finals. But I think that culture which was created, the same sort of values have been taken forward. Each one is understanding their responsibilities. With Shreyas being the captain and Ricky being the head coach, the collaboration is so good that we are very clear in terms of how we want to approach each game. I think all of us know that this tournament is quite a high-risk, high-pressure tournament. Yes, we started really well. We have been playing really well in terms of batting, bowling and fielding. But I think as a group we know that we have to take one game at a time and not go too ahead of ourselves and be as much in the present as possible and that's what we have been doing each game. One is understanding who we play against, what the opposition is, where we are playing. So all these points we just consider and move slowly and steadily in terms of each game. So now we look forward for the game tomorrow. It's an afternoon game. Things change in terms of adaptation. So small steps will take us to where we want to go, Bahutule said, while replying to a query from IANS in the pre-match press conference. Punjab Kings' bowling attack, particularly in the death overs, has been brilliant in applying the squeeze on opposition batters in the death overs. Bahutule credited fast bowling coach James Hopes for the sharpness of the pace bowling unit, which includes Arshdeep Singh, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Xavier Bartlett and Marco Jansen. I think with our Indian bowlers, with Vyshak, Arshdeep and obviously Bartlett, it makes a huge difference in terms of understanding how and what is needed for them in the different phases. In the second phase, obviously a lot of execution is important. I think in all the games till now, they have executed according to the plans. We try and keep it very simple. We don't complicate things and whatever the bowlers, all these bowlers who are bowling really well. Marco also can be used in any phase. We try and see how they can be used to their optimal in different phases and they have been responding really well. I think James Hopes, who is our fast bowling coach, he has done a wonderful job with all these bowlers. I think the clarity is so good that it helps them to perform better, he added. Bahutule, who has watched Iyer develop closely over the years due to both of them hailing from Mumbai, described him as a natural leader whose composure under pressure sets him apart. I think he has been a Mumbai boy and I have seen his growth over a period of time. His leadership qualities are something which are special in the way that he is not only responsible towards himself but also to the 10 guys who are playing on the field as well as his collaboration with all the support staff as well as guys who are not playing is phenomenal. I think the rapport he has with each player and he understands them, he knows how to get the best out of a player on the field. He is somebody who is very calm and composed in terms of his understanding towards the situation. Once you are calm and composed, you obviously have clarity in your thought process and I think that is what he does. In a pressure situation, he knows exactly how to handle that. If any of the players by chance don't play to their potential that particular time, he will still make sure that he believes in them and calms them off and gets the best out of them. So I think he is very special. I think in the coming time, he will have some future as a captain as well, he elaborated. Asked whether sustaining the winning momentum would bring added pressure, Bahutule, the former India spinner acknowledged that challenging situations lie ahead but backed the squad's depth to weather any storm. In a pressure situation, he knows exactly how to handle that. If any of the players by chance don't play to their potential that particular time, he will still make sure that he believes in them and calms them off and gets the best out of them. So I think he is very special. I think in the coming time, he will have some future as a captain as well, he elaborated. Also Read: Live Cricket Score But I think we are so well equipped in our batting order that there is a depth in it. When it comes to bowling, again, new ball bowling is something which, again, it's good. But we need to improve on that. But otherwise, again, the mid and the death overs have been fabulous for us. So I think each department has its own understanding, he signed off. Article Source: IANS
'Been A Long Time Coming': Cummins Confirms His Availability For RR Clash
ICC T20 World Cup: 2016 champions Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) have received a big boost ahead of their clash against Rajasthan Royals (RR) at Sawai Mansingh Stadium as their designated captain Pat Cummins has confirmed that he will play his first match in the Indian Premier League (IPL) on Saturday. 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 SRH's thrilling win over Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on April 2 for the scan on his back. Australian Test captain cleared the fitness test on Friday and has now confirmed that he will take the field against the Rajasthan Royals. Been a long time coming, stinging to get back into it tomorrow, Cummins shared in a social media post via his official Instagram handle, hinting at his return to the dressing room. 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. In his absence, SRH experimented with their pace attack and found success in debutant fast bowlers Praful Hinge and Sakib Hussain, both of whom claimed four-wicket hauls against RR at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium earlier this week. 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 Cummins is likely to replace fast bowler Dilshan Madhushanka, who played just one match in the IPL 2026 so far and gave away 36 runs by taking just one wicket in four overs. Travis Head, Heinrich Klassen, and Eshan Malinga will be the other three overseas players in the SRH playing XI. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: 'Mumbai Indians Have Certainly Missed Rohit Sharma,' Says Aakash Chopra
Chennai Super Kings: Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra has pointed to the absence of veteran opener Rohit Sharma as a key reason behind the struggles of the Mumbai Indians (MI) in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season, following their heavy 103-run defeat to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Thursday. Mumbai Indians' most successful captain and opener Rohit Sharma suffered a hamstring injury sustained against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). The injury forced him to retire hurt, leading to him missing matches against the Punjab Kings and Chennai Super Kings. They have certainly missed Rohit Sharma. Without strong starts, chasing totals in the 210220 range becomes very difficult, Chopra told Jio Hotstar. He further noted that key senior batters, including India's T20 World Cup champions Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya, have failed to deliver consistently. Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya havent contributed enough so far. While there have been positives like Tilak Varmas hundred, the rest of the batting unit needs to step up, he said. Suryakumar has managed just 157 runs in the seven matches he has played for the Mumbai Indians in the IPL 2026 season at an average of 22.43 and a strike rate of 142.72. He has only one half-century to his name in the 19th edition of the T20 tournament, scoring 51 runs against the Delhi Capitals. He has just hit four sixes in the ongoing IPL season so far, along with 17 boundaries. While Hardik Pandya has had a challenging IPL 2026 season for the Mumbai Indians, scoring 97 runs in six matches at an average of 19.00. His scores include 1, 15, 14, 40, 9, and 18 not out, with a total strike rate of 140.58. MI, chasing a massive 208, were bundled out for just 104 as CSKs bowling attack dominated. Akeal Hosein led the charge with four wickets, while Noor Ahmad and others ensured regular breakthroughs. While Hardik Pandya has had a challenging IPL 2026 season for the Mumbai Indians, scoring 97 runs in six matches at an average of 19.00. His scores include 1, 15, 14, 40, 9, and 18 not out, with a total strike rate of 140.58. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With this loss, the Mumbai Indians have moved down to the eighth position with just four points in seven matches. They will next face Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on April 29 at the same venue in a must-win encounter. Article Source: IANS
Indian Premier League: Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh feels that five-time champions Mumbai Indians (MI) are yet to find their rhythm in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 and need to improve their mistakes to get back to winning ways. After suffering a thumping 103-run defeat, their biggest defeat in terms of runs in T20 history, against the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the Wankhede Stadium on Thursday, MI are hanging in the bottom half of the points table. The Mumbai Indians is a strong team, but they havent found their rhythm yet and are currently on a losing run. There have been a few mistakes, and the spinners have not performed as expected, Harbhajan told IANS. Former MI champion also urged other players to step up with their performances and to reduce the pressure on Jasprit Bumrah, who has a lot of burden of expectations. There are high expectations from Jasprit Bumrah, and he carries a significant workload... Other players also need to contribute and step up with their performances. The Mumbai Indians are a side that, once it starts winning, can be difficult to stop. They need to find the right approach to get back to winning, he added. Despite a poor start in the campaign, Harbhajan believes that the Mumbai Indians can still qualify for the playoffs if they follow the path of winning. Harbhajan's statement comes at a time when MI suffered their biggest loss against CSK in IPL history at Wankhede Stadium on Thursday. CSK delivered a dominant all-round performance, posting a formidable 207/6 after opting to bat first. Sanju Samson led from the front with a magnificent unbeaten 101, while contributions across the batting order ensured the total crossed the 200-run mark. Despite a poor start in the campaign, Harbhajan believes that the Mumbai Indians can still qualify for the playoffs if they follow the path of winning. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With this loss, the Mumbai Indians have moved down to the eighth position with just four points in seven matches. They will next face Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on April 29 at the same venue in a must-win encounter. Article Source: IANS
Chennai Super Kings: Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh lauded wicketkeeper batter Sanju Samson for his exceptional game awareness after his brilliant century helped Chennai Super Kings (CSK) register a dominant 103-run victory over Mumbai Indians (MI). CSK posted a commanding 207/6 after batting first, with Samson anchoring the innings with his sparkling 101 off 54, while contributions from the middle order pushed the total past 207. In response, the Mumbai Indians collapsed to 104 in 19 overs despite brief resistance from Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma. Sanju Samson stood out because of his game awareness. A lot of players have talent, but very few understand how to pace an innings in different situations, Harbhajan told Jio Hotstar. He recognised the importance of batting till the end, especially with a young side around him. After his half-century, he shifted gears, focused on singles and doubles, and ensured he stayed till the last phase. With wickets falling at the other end, he took responsibility and finished strongly. For me, this was one of the finest innings in terms of awareness and determination, he added. Harbhajan also praised CSKs spinners Akeal Hosein and Noor Ahmed, who took six wickets combined, especially their intent to get a breakthrough rather than opting for a defensive approach. After his half-century, he shifted gears, focused on singles and doubles, and ensured he stayed till the last phase. With wickets falling at the other end, he took responsibility and finished strongly. For me, this was one of the finest innings in terms of awareness and determination, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Akeal Hosein, in particular, was outstanding. The way he dismissed Suryakumar Yadav, knowing his strength against the sweep, showed great awareness. For me, his spell was just as impactful as Samsons century. Four wickets in a game like this is no less than a match-winning contribution, he added. Article Source: IANS
Happy Birthday Sachin: As India's batting legend Sachin Tendulkar is celebrating his 53rd birthday on Friday, the cricket fraternity took to social media to extend heartfelt wishes. Conferred the Bharat Ratna in 2014, Tendulkar is a veteran of 15,921 runs in 200 Tests, besides amassing 18,426 runs in 463 ODIs. He had been a part of the Indian team at ODI World Cups since 1992 but had to wait till 2011 to fulfil his ultimate dream of clinching the World Cup after missing out on five previous occasions. Tendulkar is the only cricketer to have scored 100 centuries. Of his 100 international tons, 51 came in Tests and 49 in ODIs. He retired from ODI cricket in 2012, and a year later, in November 2013, he bid adieu to the game by retiring from all forms of cricket after playing his 200th Test. His retirement marked the end of an era in Indian cricket, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire aspiring cricketers around the globe. On the occasion of his 53rd birthday, the sports fraternity showered him with love and wished Tendulkar good health and happiness. ICC chairman Jay Shah hailed Tendulkar's contribution to the development of cricket. Sharing a post on X, the ICC Chairman wrote, Wishing our sport's icon @sachin_rt a very happy birthday. Your amazing contribution to cricket continues to inspire generations across the world to play and watch our great game, while your empathy and humanity has an ongoing and significant impact on society. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) shared a post on X on Tendulkar's birthday and wrote, 664 international matches. 34,357 international runs. Only cricketer to score 100 international hundreds. Member of #TeamIndia's ICC Men's ODI World Cup 2011 winning campaign. Wishing the legendary Sachin Tendulkar a very happy birthday. Gujarat Titans batting coach and Aussie legend Matthew Hayden wished Sachin Tendulkar on his 53rd birthday through a heartfelt video posted on the franchises social media handles. I have seen God. He used to bat at number four for India. Happy birthday, Sachin, Hayden said in a video released by GT on Instagram. Sachin's son Arjun, who is playing for the Lucknow Super Giants in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season, had a sweet, short and simple birthday wish for his father, the Master Blaster. But, refused to eat cake, even on his birthday, as he is off sugar. In a video posted by his IPL team, Lucknow Super Giants, Arjun was seen pointing towards a cake, Happy Birthday. But I'm not going to eat this because I don't have sugar very often. I'll see you soon. Former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh posted on X, Happy Birthday Paaji, sharing the field with you was an honour, but learning from you was even bigger. Your discipline, humility and love set the standard for all of us! Thank you for the memories and the inspiration you continue to be. Lots of love. Ex-India spin master Harbhajan Singh said, Happy Birthday paaji . May Waheguru continue to bless you with good health, wealth, happiness & peace. True legend, Master not just on the field but off the field too . Love Always. While Irfan Pathan wrote, When you say GOAT, I hear Sachin Tendulkar. When you say Master Blaster, I hear Sachin Tendulkar. When you say university of Cricket, I hear @sachin_rt.Your forever a student, wishing you a very happy birthday, Paaji. Former Indian opener Shikhar Dhawan wrote, Happy Birthday @sachin_rt paaji.An inspiration to generations, on and off the field. Wishing you great health and happiness always Sachin's IPL franchise, Mumbai Indians, wrote, The little boy who became every cricket lovers heartbeat. Happy Birthday, @sachin_rt Chennai Super Kings wrote,100/100 every time you stepped on the field. Every inning, a story defines the game for decades. Happy Birthday to the God of Cricket. Sachin's IPL franchise, Mumbai Indians, wrote, The little boy who became every cricket lovers heartbeat. Happy Birthday, @sachin_rt Also Read: Live Cricket Score Tendulkar shared a post on X with a photo of his wife, mother and pet dog and wrote, Perfect start to my day with Aai, Anjali and the trouble maker! What more could a man ask for? Article Source: IANS
RCB vs GT Match 34, IPL 2026: Preview, Predicted XIs, Player Tips & Match Prediction
RCB vs GT Match 34 , Cricket Tips : Royal Challengers Bengaluru suffered a heartbreaking defeat in their previous match against Delhi Capitals. Romario Shepherd failed to defend 15 runs in the final overs. That was their second defeat of the season. RCB have slipped to third on the table. They will take on Gujarat Titans on Friday. This contest will kick off at 7:30 PM IST at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. GT also lost their last game. They faced Mumbai Indians and suffered their biggest defeat in the IPL. Shubman Gill and co. will also be looking to get back into the winning ways with a good performance. RCB vs GT: Match Details Date : April 24, 2026 (Friday) Time : 7:30 PM IST Venue : R. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru RCB vs GT Live Streaming Details Fans can watch the live action of the high-profile game on Friday on the Star Sports Network. The live stream will be played on the Jio Hotstar app or website. RCB vs GT Head-to-Head in IPL Total Matches : 06 MI : 03 CSK : 03 No - Result : 00 RCB vs GT: Ground Pitch Report Chinnaswamy Stadium is an excellent wicket to bat on. It is flat and doesn't do much for the bowlers. The shorter boundaries and fast outfield are another areas of concern for bowling sides. RCB vs GT Possible XIs RCB : Virat Kohli, Philip Salt, Devdutt Padikkal, Rajat Patidar (c), Tim David, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Romario Shepherd, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Krunal Pandya, Suyash Sharma, Josh Hazlewood GT : Shubman Gill (c), Sai Sudharsan, Jos Buttler (wk), Glenn Phillips, Washington Sundar, Shahrukh Khan, Kagiso Rabada, Rashid Khan, Md. Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Ashok Sharma RCB vs GT Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill will be two batters, who are expected to score runs for their respective teams. Probable Best Bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Rashid Khan are two experienced bowlers for each team and they are expected to deliver with the ball.Today Match Prediction: RCB have a strong batting unit. Hence, we predict Royal Challengers Bengaluru to win their game. RCB vs GT Match 33, IPL 2026, Today 2026 Match, 2026 Prediction, 2026 Predicted XIs, Injury Update for RCB vs GT 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.
4th WT20I: With Series Conceded To South Africa, India Seek To Fix Bowling Woes (Preview)
T20 World Cup: Having already conceded the five-match T20I series with two games to spare, India will enter the fourth game against South Africa, to be played at the Wanderers on Saturday, with an aim to solve a familiar and urgent crisis: a bowling unit looking in tatters at the moment. Despite a resurgent batting performance on Wednesday that saw India post 192/4 - their highest-ever T20I score against the Proteas - the Harmanpreet Kaur-led visitors were listless with the ball to stop a clinical South African chase, thanks to a whirlwind 115 by hosts skipper Laura Wolvaardt. The primary issue India must correct is their inability to pick wickets in power-play. In the third T20I, Laura and Sune Luus dismantled the Indian bowling attack with a 183-run opening stand. Apart from the bowling lacking penetration and falling off in execution, India havent posted their best fielding performance too. The absence of seam-bowling all-rounder Amanjot Kaur (back injury) has been felt, while Arundhati Reddy is also under injury cloud after leaving the field due to a strain in the last game. While their batting has largely clicked, for India to get a win in the remaining two matches, the focus is on the need to find a bowling plan that can challenge the mighty Proteas. South Africa, meanwhile, have strengthened their T20 World Cup preparation with a series win over India at home for the first time. For the hosts, who have won the toss thrice and aced chases on all three occasions, the fourth T20I is a chance to inch closer to a clean sweep over India something which they havent achieved before. The Wolvaardt-Luus pairing likely pushes Tazmin Brits to number three. While Marizanne Kapps eventual return will force a selection reshuffle, South Africas immediate focus remains on increasing Indias misery and whether the visitors can stop that, only time will tell. When: April 25, Saturday, 9:30 PM IST Where: Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg Where to watch: Star Sports Network for live TV broadcast and JioHotstar for live streaming Squads: Where to watch: Star Sports Network for live TV broadcast and JioHotstar for live streaming Also Read: Live Cricket Score India: Harmanpreet Kaur (c), Shafali Verma, Smriti Mandhana, Jemimah Rodrigues, Richa Ghosh (wk), Kashvee Gautam, Arundhati Reddy, Shreyanka Patil, Deepti Sharma, Renuka Singh Thakur, Sree Charani, Anushka Sharma, Uma Chetry, Bharti Fulmali, and Kranti Gaud. Article Source: IANS
'We Both Work Well In Tandem': Hosein On Match-winning Spell With Noor
Spinner Akeal Hosein: Spinner Akeal Hosein credited clear communication and game awareness with teammate Noor Ahmad after the duo played a key role in Chennai Super Kingss (CSK) dominant 103-run win over Mumbai Indians (MI) at Wankhede Stadium. Explaining their bowling approach, he said the focus was on sharing information from the pitch and help each other in proper execution. Im just going to talk you through the match. From a bowling perspective, for myself taking the first ball, for me it was just about passing on what information I was getting from the surface, what deliveries were working, what lengths were working, and just passing that on to Noor, Hosein said in a video released by IPL on X. So when he comes in, hes got a clear plan on what he has to execute and how hes going about his game. And, you know, thankfully we both work well in tandem and we had a fantastic spell tonight, He added. Hosein finished with great figures of 4-17 while his partner Noor also picked two crucial wickets as CSK bowl out MI for just 104 runs in 19 overs while chasing 208 and won the match by 103 runs. Hosein also reserved praise for CSKs batting performance, especially Sanju Samson, who scored a brilliant unbeaten century. Lets not forget a brilliant knock by Sanju Samson. What a way to finish! And it was another fine innings. Faced the innings well. At stages, it was a bit tricky to bat on, especially when you now come in. But I thought that Sanju played a fantastic knock and facing the innings well and sort of keeping that anchor at the crease, he said. And, you know, thankfully he got his 100 in the end as well. So good job to him, he added. Reflecting on the high-profile clash, Hosein said it was a special occasion and felt good to perform for the team against MI. It was a pleasure to be a part of such a big rivalry. Two teams with the most IPL trophies coming up against each other. And to have this sort of performance in Mumbai, its always a brilliant achievement. So for me, just happy to be a part of this rivalry and to come out on the winning side as well. Reflecting on the high-profile clash, Hosein said it was a special occasion and felt good to perform for the team against MI. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Its very challenging. The fact that you only have two guys out. But with that being said, I think once you do your homework well and youre clear on your plans, as long as you go out there and execute, then you know its a 50-50 battle, He concluded. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Unbeaten PBKS Aim To Extend Perfect Run Against Inconsistent DC (Preview)
Indian Premier League: An unbeaten Punjab Kings will look to maintain a perfect run in the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season when they face an inconsistent Delhi Capitals at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Saturday afternoon. The contrast between the two teams is pretty evident PBKS have won five of their six games, with one ending in no-result, and sit at the top of the table. DC, meanwhile, have three wins and as many losses, to be at sixth position in the points tally. What makes Punjab so formidable is the stability in their line-up. Shreyas Iyer's side has used only 12 players all season - the fewest personnel used by any team - and that stability in selection has translated directly into role clarity. Their batting unit has been the finest in the ten-team competition - their overall run-rate chart is at 11.3, they are the joint-best scoring team in the powerplay (11.3) and best in scoring runs in the middle overs (11 runs per over). They have hit 69 sixes - the second best for a team in the tournament - and have simply not allowed opposition bowlers to settle. Their openers, Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh, have been the foundation of this dominance. Delhi-based Arya has 211 runs at a strike rate of 248 and his powerplay numbers are equally surreal: 152 runs at a strike rate of 258. Prabhsimran has matched him almost exactly - 211 runs at an average of 52.8, with a strike rate of 187 against pace. As an opening pair, Arya and Prabhsimran have carried on the good work done in IPL 2025 they have put on 197 runs in five innings at a strike rate of 221. Behind them, Cooper Connolly has emerged as one of the finds of the season. The Australian batting all-rounder has scored 223 runs at 55.8 and, crucially, he has shown the temperament to absorb an early wobble before accelerating. Skipper Shreyas Iyer has been in fine nick by scoring three fifties and returns to a venue familiar to him owing to being previously the captain of Delhi Capitals, including being runners-up in the 2020 season. Iyer is all set to play an IPL game in New Delhi for the first time since 2019 and he will be keen to treat the crowd to a great show from his willow. PBKS bowling has been about them performing as a collective rather than being a one-man effort. Arshdeep Singh, wicketless in his first three outings, has found his rhythm and confidence and picked six wickets in the last three games. Marco Jansen, Xavier Bartlett and Vyshak Vijaykumar have done their jobs well, while leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal remains their main threat in the middle overs. In short, PBKS are firing on all cylinders and to derail their winning juggernaut, DC must find a way to bridge the gap between flashes of individual brilliance and collective execution. If Arya and Prabhsimran get going at their usual clip, DC will need their bowlers to take wickets quickly - something that has not happened consistently. DCs run-rate of 8.7 in the first six overs with the bat is the third-lowest in the competition, and onus will be on openers Pathum Nissanka and KL Rahul to match that intent, especially if they are to successfully chase down anything above 200. Beyond them, DC have shuffled their batting order in almost every game and constantly changing their impact player choice has meant they havent zeroed on a settled combination. While David Miller has been excellent in the death overs, despite falling for a duck in the last game, Tristan Stubbs, despite adapting his game very well as per the situations, needs to overcome his slow starts. With the ball, Axar and Kuldeep Yadav need to produce their best performances simultaneously - something that has not happened enough. Against SRH, they curiously bowled only two overs each, even as part-time off-spinner Nitish Rana bowled four overs and leaked 55 runs. Lungi Ngidi and T Natarajan are among the most economical bowlers in overs 17-20 this season and are DCs best hope of inflicting a late-innings squeeze on a formidable PBKS batting line-up. For now, another win for PBKS would see them maintain their best start in an IPL season, while a defeat for DC will put them at the risk of falling further behind in a tightening race to the playoffs. When: Saturday, April 25, 3:30PM IST Where: Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi Where to watch: Star Sports Network for live TV broadcast and JioHotstar for live streaming Squads Where to watch: Star Sports Network for live TV broadcast and JioHotstar for live streaming Also Read: Live Cricket Score Punjab Kings: Shreyas Iyer (captain), Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh (wicketkeeper), Nehal Wadhera, Shashank Singh, Marcus Stoinis, Cooper Connolly, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal, Marco Jansen, Azmatullah Omarzai, Harpreet Brar, Suryansh Shedge, Vishnu Vinod, Xavier Bartlett, Yash Thakur, Mitchell Owen, Harnoor Singh, Musheer Khan, Pyla Avinash, Lockie Ferguson, Ben Dwarshuis, Pravin Dubey, and Vishal Nishad Article Source: IANS
'Intensity Of MI-CSK Rivalry Brought The Best In Me': Samson
Chennai Super Kings: Chennai Super Kings (CSK) wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson revealed that the high expectations and the pressure to score against arch-rivals Mumbai Indians (MI) motivated him to perform to the best of his capabilities and score a match-winning hundred at the Wankhede Stadium. Samson's sparkling 101 off 54, laced with 10 fours and six sixes powered CSK to a total of 207/6. In reply, MI kept losing wickets at regular intervals, and were shot out for just 104 in 19 overs. It's a very big occasion in IPL, everyone looks up to the CSK, my game, and I have been a part of this for the first time. So I could see the build-up, I could see the intensity coming on, so that's when my best also comes out, Samson said in a video released by IPL on X. I like the challenges, I like when it's tough, so I really enjoyed the game today, I think the wicket was not a normal Wankhede wicket, the ball was swinging around, Bumrah was bowling with a new ball, so it was a very competitive game to be honest, so I think I'm very happy that I contributed and we had a victory today, he added. CSK delivered a dominant all-round performance after opting to bat first. Samson led from the front with a magnificent unbeaten 101, while the likes of Dewald Brevis (21) and Kartik Sharma (18) also contributed handy runs. In response, MI struggled from the outset and were eventually bowled out for 104 in 19 overs. Akeal Hosein starred with the ball, picking up four wickets, while Noor Ahmad provided crucial support. According to Samson, even the small contributions from every player made a huge difference in the game. I think with the amount of youngsters in the team, I would definitely like to give credit to all the players who have contributed, it's not about the 100 or the 4 wickets, I think all the small contributions from the batsmen and bowlers really counts in this big game, so very happy for the victory, I think we would like to keep the momentum going and look positive from the next game, he said. The 31-year-old also shed light on the feeling when he came close to a hundred and revealed the conversation with Akeal Hosein before the last over, in which Samson played all the deliveries and smashed 16 runs against Krish Bhagat and completed his second century of the season. I think with the amount of youngsters in the team, I would definitely like to give credit to all the players who have contributed, it's not about the 100 or the 4 wickets, I think all the small contributions from the batsmen and bowlers really counts in this big game, so very happy for the victory, I think we would like to keep the momentum going and look positive from the next game, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score So luckily I got a big over and I got close to the 100 and me and Akhil had a chat before that over that I would like to face all six balls that over, I think we were looking to get maximum there and he also felt the same, so very happy, I think and definitely always feels very special to score a 100 and when it comes against MI in Wankhede, it's a super special feeling, he added. Article Source: IANS
Chennai Super Kings: After questions were raised about why Shardul Thakur had replaced Mitchell Santner as a concussion substitute during Mumbai Indians (MI) chase against Chennai Super Kings despite not being in the playing XI, MI head coach Mahela Jayawardene explained that Santner went for a scan after he complained of dizziness, and it was then that they approached the match referee for a concussion substitute. Santner was seen walking off the field holding his shoulder after he ran in from sweeper cover to pull off a diving catch to dismiss Kartik Sharma, with replays showing that the Kiwi all-rounder's head hit the ground while attempting the catch. During the chase, MI had subbed out AM Ghazanfar to bring in opener Danish Malewar as the impact player. However, with MI's chase going nowhere, Shardul walked in to bat at No. 8 as a concussion substitute, raising more than a few eyebrows. Explaining the decision, Jayawardene said Santer went for a scan after he complained of dizziness, and the team requested a concussion sub only after the player reported feeling unstable I think he hit his head first, neck, obviously the shoulder as well. He went for a scan because once he got back, he felt dizzy. So, he was lying down. Yes, the ice was there for the shoulder. But he felt that he wasn't stable. So, we took him for a scan in that situation. We requested (for a concussion substitute). Obviously, it is at the match referee and the umpire's discretion. They allowed Shardul. Mitch will be disappointed that his batting powers are matched to Shardul Thakur. But it is what it is. But hopefully, it's not too bad, Jayawardene said in a post-match press conference. I think he hit his head first, neck, obviously the shoulder as well. He went for a scan because once he got back, he felt dizzy. So, he was lying down. Yes, the ice was there for the shoulder. But he felt that he wasn't stable. So, we took him for a scan in that situation. We requested (for a concussion substitute). Also Read: Live Cricket Score Praising the young spinners effort, Mahela shared, Allah Ghazanfar bowled well. He is very brave and maturing with time. The more games he plays in the middle. he will learn a lot. We, as a unit, will keep backing him to do what he does best, he added. Article Source: IANS
I Thought We Found Rhythm After Ahmedabad Win, But We Lost It: MI Coach Jayawardene
After Mumbai Indians: After Mumbai Indians' (IANS) thumping 103-run defeat against the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), head coach Mahela Jayawardene admitted that his side have done well in patches but there is hole in MI's bowling and stressed the importance of regrouping, learning and coming back with positive intent. Ridding on Sanju Samson's (101 not out), laced with 10 fours and six sixes, CSK 207/6. In reply, MI never got going, as the hosts kept losing wickets at regular intervals, and were shot out for just 104 in 19 overs. Akeal Hosein was outstanding for CSK, registering figures of 4-17. We have managed just four points from seven matches. Disappointed to have lost this game. We lost our rhythm in the two powerplays itself, first with the ball and then with the bat. We have a break now, we will think and discuss what we need to do in the next seven games. Here too, we bowled well in patches but when 20-plus extra runs are given away, it is difficult to claw back into the game. As a team we all have to improve, Jayawardene said in a post match presser. If you analyse the seven games, yes, there was a hole in our bowling and we got some fresh faces in there. The win against Gujarat Titans in] Ahmedabad looked good. Again, here, I thought in patches we bowled well. It is just execution-wise, consistency-wise, I think we are one of the teams that has given the highest number of big overs - 18-plus overs, if you look at the half-season, he added. MII fell short in the powerplay, both with ball and bat. They scored their lowest powerplay total against CSK in the IPL on a day when their opponents had scored their second-highest total in that phase against them. Once you lose a match like that, it's difficult to even analyse it. But probably where we lost both the powerplays with the ball and with the bat, we just couldn't get to the game. We had a great game in Ahmedabad, I thought we found some rhythm, but again, we lost that rhythm. MII fell short in the powerplay, both with ball and bat. They scored their lowest powerplay total against CSK in the IPL on a day when their opponents had scored their second-highest total in that phase against them. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With two wins in seven matches, MI are hanging in the bottom half of the points table, and now have a five-day break to regroup when they host Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 29. Article Source: IANS
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New Coach Gary Kirsten Faces 'A Lot Of Learning' To Rebuild Sri Lanka
New Sri Lanka head coach Gary Kirsten says understanding the island's cricketing identity will be central to rebuilding the team for the World Cup. The 58-year-old former South Africa opener started last week on a two-year contract that will see him in charge for the 50-over World Cup next year. I need to understand the culture really well, understand what makes the players tick, understand the environment, Kirsten told reporters in Colombo. I've got a lot of learning to do as I go through this journey. Kirsten was India coach from 2008 to 2011, taking them to World Cup glory, then coached South Africa from 2011 to 2013. He was appointed by Sri Lanka after Sanath Jayasuriya left the position before his term was due to expire at the end of June. Sri Lanka co-hosted the T20 World Cup with eventual winners India but crashed out at the Super Eights stage, their fate sealed by a 61-run defeat to New Zealand. Kirsten said he would work with translators -- but that English works quite well in cricket as a language of communication. I've worked across a lot of different cultures and countries, so I've had a bit of experience in that space, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The 2027 World Cup will be co-hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.
Speed takes over, and 'the momentum changes' for Bangladesh
I feel confident when I see the ball in his hand in crisis moments, Mehidy Hasan Miraz says of Mustafizur Rahman after the quick picked up five wickets to win Bangladesh the last ODI
'We lost that rhythm' - Jayawardene points to powerplays for big loss to CSK
We are one of the teams that has given the highest number of big overs, Mahela Jayawardene says about Mumbai Indians' lack of consistency in IPL 2026
Gaikwad dedicates CSK's 103-run win against MI to Mukesh Choudhary
The left-arm seamer played his part in CSK's win against MI following the death of his mother on Tuesday
IPL 2026: 'I Would Dedicate This Win To Mukesh,' Says Gaikwad As CSK Beat MI
Chennai Super Kings: Skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad dedicated Chennai Super Kings comprehensive 103-run victory to Mukesh Choudhary, who featured in the match despite the recent demise of his mother, as players wore black armbands in tribute during their clash against Mumbai Indians (MI) in Match 33 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at Wankhede Stadium on Thursday. Pretty tough on him (Mukesh Choudhary), I would dedicate this win to him. All glory to him. Everyone chipped in and wanted to be there for him. Feels good (on the win), Gaikwad said after the match. CSK delivered a dominant all-round performance, posting a formidable 207/6 after opting to bat first. Sanju Samson led from the front with a magnificent unbeaten 101, while contributions across the batting order ensured the total crossed the 200-run mark. In response, the Mumbai Indians struggled from the outset and were eventually bowled out for 104 in 19 overs. Akeal Hosein starred with the ball, picking up four wickets, while Noor Ahmad provided crucial support. Speaking about the decision at the toss, Gaikwad revealed it was instinctive. My gut feeling wanted me to bat first. Sanju and I said that it wasn't coming on nicely. He credited the collective batting effort, highlighting the importance of small contributions. Everyone chipped in really well. Even the 20s helped. Sanju played a magnificent knock and took us home, He said. Mukesh to Quinton de Kock, that set the momentum. He started really well, he added. Praising the bowling unit and team balance, he added, Its a blessing to have Akeal and Noor. Everyone is settling. Everyone is calm and composed. Mukesh to Quinton de Kock, that set the momentum. He started really well, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Meanwhile, after the win, CSK have moved up to the fifth position in the points table with six points in seven matches. They will next face the Gujarat Titans on April 26. Article Source: IANS
Bates to retire from international cricket after T20 World Cup
I have one final mission: to head to the UK and win another World Cup, she says
Khushdil pulls off stunning chase to end Karachi Kings' losing streak
Karachi Kings chased down Lahore Qalandars' total of 199 with eight balls to spare
IPL 2026: 'We Could Not Cope After Losing Early Wickets,' Says Pandya As MI Suffer Heavy Defeat
Chennai Super Kings: Skipper Hardik Pandya admitted that early wickets in the Power-play hurt the Mumbai Indians (MI) badly as they stumbled to a heavy defeat against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in Match 33 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Thursday. I think that in the power play, losing that early wicket is always going to be tricky. You are always chasing the game, and we could not cope after that, Pandya said after the match. Chasing a daunting 208, the Mumbai Indians never found momentum and were bowled out for just 104 in 19 overs. Left-arm spinner Akeal Hosein starred with the ball, picking up four wickets, while Noor Ahmad chipped in with crucial breakthroughs. Earlier, Sanju Samson had powered CSK to 207/6 with a brilliant unbeaten 101, supported by handy contributions from the middle order. Pandya, however, refused to blame the pitch conditions for the defeat. I would not say that. Im not someone who would like to say that. They batted well; they scored 207. It was the same track, it was the same soil. We should have just batted well, he added. He acknowledged the role of spinners but credited CSKs batting effort. Yes, I think even our spinners bowled pretty well. Its just that Sanju played an outstanding knock. At the same point in time, their batters kept coming and kind of chipping in and got them to a decent total, I think more than a decent total on that track. For us to chase this down, we needed to have a good power play, and the momentum had to be with us, but that could not happen, he added. He acknowledged the role of spinners but credited CSKs batting effort. Yes, I think even our spinners bowled pretty well. Its just that Sanju played an outstanding knock. At the same point in time, their batters kept coming and kind of chipping in and got them to a decent total, I think more than a decent total on that track. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Meanwhile, after the defeat, MI have moved down to the eighth position with just four points in seven matches. They will next face Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on April 29. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Samson's Ton, Hosein's Four-fer Power CSK To 103-run Win Over MI
Chennai Super Kings: Left-arm spinner Akeal Hosein starred with a four-wicket haul as the Mumbai Indians (MI) were bowled out for just 104 in 19 overs while chasing 208, handing Chennai Super Kings (CSK) a commanding 103-run victory in Match 33 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Thursday. Earlier, opener Sanju Samson's brilliant unbeaten century off 56 balls helped CSK reach 207/6 despite losing wickets at regular intervals while batting first. Chasing a daunting target, the Mumbai Indians had a shaky start as opener Danish Malewar fell early, edging a delivery from Akeal Hosein to wicketkeeper Sanju Samson. The early pressure intensified when Mukesh Choudhary struck in the following over, clean bowling Quinton de Kock for just 7 runs. Hosein continued to trouble the batters and removed the in-form Naman Dhir with a sharp delivery that rattled the stumps. With three quick wickets down, Mumbai were pushed onto the back foot early. Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma attempted to rebuild the innings, but runs were hard to come by initially as they managed just 29 runs in the powerplay. The pair gradually settled in and began to find boundaries, taking the score to 69/3 at the halfway stage. However, just when the partnership looked threatening, Hosein struck again in the 13th over to dismiss Varma for 37 off 29 balls, breaking a crucial 73-run stand. Mumbais hopes suffered a major blow immediately after, as captain Hardik Pandya fell for a duck to Noor Ahmad, while Sherfane Rutherford was dismissed on the very next ball. Hosein capped off a brilliant spell by removing Suryakumar for 36, effectively ending Mumbais resistance. Shardul Thakur, who came in as a concussion substitute for Mitchell Santner, tried to stay till the end but could only manage 6 runs. Hosein was the standout performer with exceptional figures of 4/17, while Noor Ahmad chipped in with two key wickets. Gurjapneet Singh applied the finishing touch by dismissing Jasprit Bumrah in the 19th over, sealing a dominant victory for CSK. Chennai Super Kings made a strong start after being asked to bat first, with Sanju Samson and captain Ruturaj Gaikwad attacking early and scoring 26 runs in the first two overs, including 19 off Hardik Pandya. Gaikwad fell for 22 in the third over, but Samson continued the aggressive approach and took Pandya apart again in the fourth over as CSK crossed 50 quickly. Sarfaraz Khan added quick runs before being bowled by Mitchell Santner for 14, with CSK finishing the powerplay at 73/2. Allah Ghazanfar then removed Shivam Dube with a carrom ball to pull things back. Dewald Brevis counterattacked with 21 off 11 before falling to Ashwani Kumar. Samson held the innings together, reaching his fifty in just 26 balls. Kartik struggled for timing and was dismissed by Jasprit Bumrah for 18, while Jamie Overton chipped in with a quick 15. In the death overs, Samson dominated and brought up his century in 54 balls. He remained unbeaten on 101, hitting 10 fours and six sixes to power CSK past 200. For the Mumbai Indians, Ghazanfar (2/25) and Ashwani Kumar were the standout bowlers. Samson held the innings together, reaching his fifty in just 26 balls. Kartik struggled for timing and was dismissed by Jasprit Bumrah for 18, while Jamie Overton chipped in with a quick 15. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Chennai Super Kings 207/6 in 20 overs (Sanju Samson 101*, Ruturaj Gaikwad 22; AM Ghazanfar 2-25, Ashwani Kumar 2-37) beat Mumbai Indians 104 all out in 19 overs (Tilak Varma 37, Suryakumar Yadav 36; Akeal Hosein 4-17, Noor Ahmed 2-24) by 103 runs Article Source: IANS
New Zealand Great Suzie Bates To Retire After Women's T20 World Cup
T20 World Cup: New Zealand great Suzie Bates has decided to retire from international cricket after this year's ICC Women's T20 World Cup, New Zealand Cricket announced on Thursday. Bates will hang up her boots following this year's T20 World Cup that commences in England and Wales on June 12, where the 38-year-old will get her final chance to add to her current tally of 362 international appearances for her country. Reflecting on a wonderful career, Bates told New Zealand Cricket, When I look back on the past twenty-plus years, I cant quite believe how quickly the time has gone. I'm immensely proud to have worn the fern so many times, and Ive been filled with enormous purpose and joy in striving each day to be a better person, teammate, cricketer, and athlete for this team. Words cant truly express my gratitude to all my teammates and coaches along the way. I have one final mission: to head to the UK - a place that holds so many special memories for me - and win another World Cup, Suzie Bates was quoted as saying by New Zealand Cricket. Bates has scored a whopping 14 centuries across all formats and taken 145 wickets. The all-rounder will leave the game with one of the most impressive resumes in recent times, having consistently performed at the highest level for her country since making her debut against India in Lincoln back in 2006. Bates will retire as New Zealand's highest-ever run scorer in women's cricket across all formats, and only Australian great Meg Lanning (15) and India opener Smriti Mandhana (14) can boast to have scored more ODI centuries than the 13 she has managed in 50-over cricket. Her best ODI score of 168 came against Pakistan at the 2009 edition of the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup, while she also reached triple figures against the same opposition at the 2022 edition of the tournament on home soil. While best known for her batting skills most regularly at the top of the batting order, Bates has also excelled with the ball across the majority of her career and especially at a younger age, with the medium-pacer having picked up four-wicket hauls at both ODI and T20I level in 2009 and 2011, respectively. Bates enjoyed a stint as captain of New Zealand between 2011 and 2018 and was perhaps at the peak of her powers in 2013 when she was adjudged the ICC Women's ODI Cricketer of the Year, having dominated the World Cup in India when she finished as the leading run-scorer. She was also named the ICC Women's ODI Cricketer of the Year and ICC Women's T20I Cricketer of the Year in 2016 following a dominant period in bilateral cricket in both formats. Bates enjoyed a stint as captain of New Zealand between 2011 and 2018 and was perhaps at the peak of her powers in 2013 when she was adjudged the ICC Women's ODI Cricketer of the Year, having dominated the World Cup in India when she finished as the leading run-scorer. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The New Zealand legend will be aiming to help her side to back-to-back T20 World Cup trophies when the 20-over showcase commences in June, with the White Ferns drawn in Group B alongside hosts England, Ireland, Scotland, Sri Lanka, and the West Indies. Article Source: IANS
'He brings that magic dust' - The inside story of Bellingham's Phoenix investment
Warwickshire and Knighthead Capital apply Tom Brady model by bringing Birmingham's highest-profile footballer on board
BCB withdraws NOCs for Mustafizur Rahman, Nahid Rana for remainder of PSL 2026
Mustafizur has been nursing a knee injury and Rana will manage his workload
IPL 2026: Samsons Unbeaten Ton Powers CSK To 207/6 Against MI
Chennai Super Kings: Opener Sanju Samson hammered a brilliant unbeaten century, his second of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, as Chennai Super Kings (CSK) posted 207/6 in 20 overs against Mumbai Indians (MI) at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Thursday. After being asked to bat first, CSK got off to a strong start. Samson and captain Ruturaj Gaikwad attacked from the beginning, scoring 26 runs in the first two overs, including 19 runs off Hardik Pandyas second over. Mumbai got their first breakthrough in the third over when Gaikwad was dismissed for 22 off 14 balls. Despite losing a wicket, Samson kept the momentum going and again took on Pandya, collecting 19 runs in the fourth over bowled by the Mumbai Indians skipper as CSK crossed the 50-run mark quickly. Sarfaraz Khan played a few attacking shots but was bowled by Mitchell Santner for 14 off 8 balls in the last over of the Power-play. CSK ended the first six overs at 73/2. After the fielding restrictions were lifted, the Mumbai Indians struck again as AM Ghazanfar bowled Shivam Dube with a clever carrom ball. Dewald Brevis then struck some runs, hitting two sixes and a four before getting out for 21 off 11 balls to Ashwani Kumar. At the other end, Samson continued to bat with confidence and reached his fifty in just 26 balls. He held the innings together even as wickets kept falling. Young batter Kartik tried to accelerate in the middle overs with a couple of sixes but struggled later and was dismissed by Jasprit Bumrah for 18 off 19 balls. Jamie Overton provided a late boost with a quick 15 off 7 balls. In the final overs, Samson dominated the bowling and brought up his century in style, reaching the milestone in 54 balls with a six. He remained unbeaten on 101, hitting 10 fours and 6 sixes, helping CSK cross the 200-run mark. For the Mumbai Indians, Ghazanfar was the pick of the bowlers with 2/25, while Ashwani Kumar also picked up two wickets. In the final overs, Samson dominated the bowling and brought up his century in style, reaching the milestone in 54 balls with a six. He remained unbeaten on 101, hitting 10 fours and 6 sixes, helping CSK cross the 200-run mark. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Chennai Super Kings 207/6 in 20 overs (Sanju Samson 101*, Ruturaj Gaikwad 22; AM Ghazanfar 2-25, Ashwani Kumar 2-37) against Mumbai Indians Article Source: IANS
Ben Charlesworth to join Lancashire at the end of the season
Allrounder to remain at Bristol for the summer before moving to Emirates Old Trafford on a three-year deal
IPL 2026: Delhi Capitals Announce Rehan Ahmed As Ben Duckett's Replacement
Indian Premier League: Delhi Capitals (DC) have signed England all-rounder Rehan Ahmed as a replacement for his compatriot Ben Duckett for the remainder of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season. According to an official IPL media advisory, Rehan has been roped in for a fee of INR 75 lakh. The 21-year-old right-arm leg-spinner has represented England in all three formats, featuring in five Tests, nine ODIs, and 13 T20Is, and has taken a total of 49 international wickets so far. Duckett had withdrawn from what would have been his maiden IPL stint just before the start of the tournament in order to focus on his England commitments following a challenging Ashes tour. The Capitals did not name an immediate replacement at the time, instead opting to reshuffle their batting order, with Pathum Nissanka opening alongside KL Rahul. Rehan, who initially gained attention for his wrist-spin bowling, has also made significant progress with the bat. Playing for Leicestershire, he enjoyed an impressive 2025 County Championship campaign, scoring 760 runs at an average of 50.66, including five centuries, while also picking up 23 wickets at an average of 19. He made waves earlier this year during the 2026 T20 World Cup for breaking crucial partnerships. Rehan has represented England in 13 T20Is, picking up 15 wickets. He also has experience in playing other global tournaments like the BBL and The Hundred. Rehan, who initially gained attention for his wrist-spin bowling, has also made significant progress with the bat. Playing for Leicestershire, he enjoyed an impressive 2025 County Championship campaign, scoring 760 runs at an average of 50.66, including five centuries, while also picking up 23 wickets at an average of 19. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The Axar Patel-led side will next face table toppers Punjab Kings (PBKS) at Arun Jaitley Stadium on Saturday. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Priyansh And Vaibhav Already Know Exactly How They Want To Play The Game, Says Pujara
Indian Premier League: The rise of fearless prodigies has been the defining theme of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, with young Priyansh Arya and teenaged Vaibhav Sooryavanshi emerging as the standout names. Both have consistently provided explosive starts in the Power-play, combining intent with maturity beyond their years. Former India Test batter Cheteshwar Pujara pointed out that the success of Arya and Sooryavanshi is because they know exactly how they want to play T20 cricket. What stands out for me is not just the stroke play, its the clarity. At that age, most players are still figuring out where they belong, but Priyansh and Vaibhav already know exactly how they want to play the game. Its not about reckless hitting; its about backing your intent without second-guessing. Vaibhav brings that raw, uncompromising power, while Priyansh gives you time on the ball that you simply cant teach. Together, theyre redefining what a Power-play can look like, and more importantly, theyre doing it on their own terms. Obviously, they will continue to improve and grow, but what I am seeing at such a young age is very exciting, said Pujara on JioHotstars Champions Waali Commentary. The performances by Arya and Sooryavanshi have underlined five key traits fearlessness beyond their age, a game plan which is tailor-made for T20 cricket, contrasting methods of brute power versus timing, fetching them big runs, the ability to shift gears, and staying original without imitating established stars. Sooryavanshis raw muscle power has allowed him to clear boundaries with ease, while Aryas timing and placement have produced equally destructive results. Both have shown adaptability in pacing innings when required, as seen in Sooryavanshis fifty against Chennai Super Kings and Aryas measured half-century in a steep chase against Sunrisers Hyderabad. Sooryavanshi has made 254 runs in seven innings, while Arya has amassed 211 runs in five matches. Umesh Yadav, veteran Indian pacer, also praised the young batters for being in a rich vein of form in IPL 2026. There's no question about talent, but what separates these boys is their ability to adapt within the same innings. Sooryavanshis raw muscle power has allowed him to clear boundaries with ease, while Aryas timing and placement have produced equally destructive results. Both have shown adaptability in pacing innings when required, as seen in Sooryavanshis fifty against Chennai Super Kings and Aryas measured half-century in a steep chase against Sunrisers Hyderabad. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The fearless approach is just the surface; underneath that is game awareness, match-ups, and a strong sense of identity. Theyre not trying to be like anyone, theyre comfortable being themselves, and thats why theyve become the standout young batters this season, he added. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: CSK Players Wear Black Armbands In Tribute To Mukesh Choudharys Mother
Chennai Super Kings: Players of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) wore black armbands during their Indian Premier League (IPL) match against Mumbai Indians (MI) at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Thursday as a mark of respect following the passing of pacer Mukesh Choudharys mother. The franchise confirmed earlier in the day that Choudharys mother had passed on Tuesday after battling illness for a long time. In a message shared by the team, CSK expressed their condolences and support for the young pacer and his family during the difficult period. The CSK family mourns the passing of Mukesh Choudharys mother. We stand with Mukesh and his family, keeping them in our thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time, the franchise said. In a show of solidarity, the entire team took the field wearing black armbands. The gesture was aimed at honouring the memory of Choudharys mother and standing by their teammate in his time of grief. Despite the personal loss, Choudhary rejoined the squad ahead of the clash and was included in the playing XI for the match against the Mumbai Indians, reflecting his commitment to the team. Mukesh has played only one match for the franchise in IPL 2026, where he took two crucial wickets of Travis Head and Ishan Kishan against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). Mukesh made his debut for CSK in 2022 in the IPL, taking 16 wickets in that season. Known for swinging the new ball, he has 19 total wickets in 17 matches across his IPL career, with best figures of 4/46. Mukesh has played only one match for the franchise in IPL 2026, where he took two crucial wickets of Travis Head and Ishan Kishan against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). Also Read: Live Cricket Score Meanwhile, veteran wicketkeeper-batter MS Dhoni is yet to recover from a calf strain and did not feature in the high-profile clash. The 44-year-old, who had been training with the squad ahead of the game, continues to wait for his first appearance of the IPL 2026 season. Article Source: IANS
Rehan Ahmed replaces Ben Duckett at Delhi Capitals
This will be the England allrounder's first stint in the IPL
Rawalpindiz break duck in penultimate game of their season
Asif Afridi, Mohammad Amir, Saad Masood and Dian Forrester combined forces to stop Islamabad United at 137, before the Rawalpindiz batters got to the target with 11 balls in hand
UAE captain Waseem fined and handed demerit point for criticising umpiring
Waseem said the umpiring was biased during the second T20I against Nepal
IPL 2026: 'I Am Comfortable Everywhere,' Says Naman Dhir On Batting Role For MI
Indian Premier League: Mumbai Indians (MI) batter Naman Dhir said he is ready to bat in any position for the team, stressing his flexibility ahead of their high-profile clash against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Thursday. I am comfortable everywhere, I do not have any problem with that. But yes, if you get more time in a game to settle in, then obviously why not, Dhir said while speaking to broadcasters before the match. The youngster revealed that he was asked to prepare for a top-order role at short notice due to Rohit Sharma dealing with a minor hamstring niggle. Unfortunately, Rohit Sharma bhai had a niggle in his hamstring. After that, one day before the match, I was told. Mahela Jayawardene told me that I might bat at number three, he said. The young batter grabbed the opportunity with both hands as he smashed 45 runs off just 32 balls against the Gujarat Titans (GT) in their last match. Dhir added that the shift was not new to him as he bats in the top order in domestic cricket. Actually, I bat in the top order for my domestic team as well, so it was nothing new for me. I just faced the new ball in the nets, so I felt I was ready, he explained. Looking ahead to the clash, Dhir expects a charged-up atmosphere given the rivalry between the two teams. There are some very big players playing for both teams, like MS Dhoni bhai is here. Both teams are five-time champions, so I guess that is why it is such a rivalry. The special moment is that the atmosphere today will be very good; it will be electrifying. There will be tremendous support for both teams, so we are looking forward to winning this game, he said. Dhir added that the shift was not new to him as he bats in the top order in domestic cricket. Actually, I bat in the top order for my domestic team as well, so it was nothing new for me. I just faced the new ball in the nets, so I felt I was ready, he explained. Also Read: Live Cricket Score There are a lot of positive conversations happening. And if you look at slow starts, it has been a trend with the Mumbai Indians, so we are not too worried. We have just come here to play good cricket, and we will do that today, he added. Article Source: IANS
Shanto century, Mustafizur five-for seals series win for Bangladesh
Dean Foxcroft's late charge, during which he put up a fifty-run stand with No. 11 Ben Lister, could not get New Zealand over the line
UAE Skipper Waseem Fined 15 Percent Match Fee For ICC Code Of Conduct Breach
Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground: United Arab Emirates (UAE) captain Muhammad Waseem has been fined 15 per cent of his match fee for breaching the ICC Code of Conduct during the second T20I against Nepal. Waseem was found guilty of a Level 1 offence under Article 2.7 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which deals with public criticism of, or inappropriate comment in relation to an incident occurring in an International Match or any Player, Player Support Personnel, Match Official or team participating in any International Match, irrespective of when such criticism or inappropriate comment is made. The charge stemmed from Waseems remarks at the post-match presentation ceremony, where he alleged that the umpiring was biased. On-field officials Buddhi Pradhan and Vinay Kumar, along with third umpire Durga Subedi and fourth umpire Sanjay Sigdel, reported the matter. Waseem admitted to the offence and accepted the sanction proposed by Wendell La Brooy of the Emirates ICC International Panel of Match Referees, thereby avoiding a formal hearing. In addition to the fine, Waseem has received one demerit point, his first offence in 24 months. Level 1 breaches carry a minimum penalty of an official reprimand, a maximum penalty of 50 per cent of a players match fee, and one or two demerit points. Waseem admitted to the offence and accepted the sanction proposed by Wendell La Brooy of the Emirates ICC International Panel of Match Referees, thereby avoiding a formal hearing. Also Read: Live Cricket Score UAE, who won the opening T20I by six wickets, went down by eight wickets in the second match as Nepal levelled the series at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur. Article Source: IANS
No Dhoni or Rohit; MI opt to bowl vs CSK
This is the first ever MI vs CSK game without either Rohit or Dhoni
BCCIs Indoor Cricket Facility In Rangpo Set For Inauguration By PM Modi, Says Saikia
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia: BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia on Thursday inspected the newly built indoor cricket academy at the Sikkim Cricket Ground in Mining, Rangpo, ahead of its formal inauguration by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on April 28. The Rs 23-crore facility, developed within the premises of the Sikkim Cricket Association (SICA) ground, features modern amenities including net practice areas, a gymnasium, a swimming pool, and other infrastructure aimed at raising cricket training standards in the region. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is visiting Sikkim on April 28. On that day, the indoor cricket facilities in Sikkim, which we started in 2022, will be completed and ready for inauguration. The Prime Minister will inaugurate the facilities in Rangpo as well as in five other Northeastern states. From Gangtok, all six facilities will be inaugurated, which will give a new impetus to the entire North-eastern cricket scene, Saikia said to reporters in Rangpo. Saikia expressed satisfaction with the quality of the facilities in Rangpo. I have visited Sikkim for infrastructure work six or seven times before, but I had never come to see the cricket infrastructure specifically. Today, I am pleasantly surprised to see such excellent facilities. The cricket ground that the Sikkim Cricket Association has built here is very beautiful. It features an international-standard cricket pitch and outfield, all set in lovely surroundings. These facilities are outstanding, and the Sikkim Cricket Association has done a lot of work for the development of cricket here, he said. The Rangpo facility, along with similar projects in five other northeastern states, will be inaugurated simultaneously by the Prime Minister from Gangtok. Saikia further explained that the indoor cricket initiative was launched in 2022 under then Secretary Jay Shah, who now serves as the ICC Chairman, keeping in mind the regions long monsoon season, which lasts for six to seven months a year. The cricket ground that the Sikkim Cricket Association has built here is very beautiful. It features an international-standard cricket pitch and outfield, all set in lovely surroundings. These facilities are outstanding, and the Sikkim Cricket Association has done a lot of work for the development of cricket here, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The objective was to ensure that cricketers wouldn't face any difficulties in their practice. Under Jay Shah's leadership, the BCCI began this project in 2022, and it is now completed, he added. Article Source: IANS
Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium: When Praful Hinge ran in to bowl his first over in the IPL for Sunrisers Hyderabad in their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 clash against an in-form Rajasthan Royals batting line-up, there was no doubt in him being overwhelmed by the occasion. The young fast bowler from Nagpur was just focused on executing what he had already rehearsed in the nets nailing his line and length with precision. By blocking out the crowd, trusting the process, and staying calm, Hinge got a stunning four-fer, including three scalps in the opening over, to give SRH a memorable win over RR and etch his name into the history books. Now nearly ten days since that magical night at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hinge recalled that, being at the top of his bowling mark, he just wanted to be calm in executing his plans to perfection. It was nothing like that. I had thought about getting the crowd out of my head and mind first, and I wanted to be as calm as possible. I had bowled under pressure when I was bowling in the practice sessions. So, I had to execute all those things in the match, and I felt really good when I did that, Hinge told IANS on JioStar Press Room. As he took out Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Dhruv Jurel, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, and Riyan Parag, Hinge said he didnt realise that he was making history. I was just focused on bowling the ball. Its not in my hands to take a wicket or not. I just had to bowl well. So, that was it. I was just focusing on bowling well and helping my team win. Cricket is like, if you bowl well, you'll get the wicket. Behind that calm composure and a little shy demeanour lies a journey rooted in stubborn ambition and a childhood dream stitched while growing up in Nagpur. I started playing cricket at the age of 13. But I didn't know what leather ball cricket was. So, I used to play tennis ball cricket, and I used to play a match with it. Gradually, I told my dad that I wanted to start a club. So, he took me there. I said I would play at the age of 12, but he said that I was too young and he would take me there next year. So, when I turned 13, he took me to the club. I wanted to do a summer camp, as I wanted to see what happens after playing leather ball cricket. So, while I was playing, my dad said that the two-month camp was over. I said that I wanted to continue. So, my dad thought that I would go and go and if I continued, I would get tired, come home, and go to sleep. But I was stubborn - I knew that I wanted to play for India. I didn't know what domestic cricket was or what club matches were. I just knew that I wanted to play for India and that blue jersey. Obviously, everyone wants that. So, I slowly got to know about the process and worked hard according to it. Then in 2016, I played for the under-16s, under-19s, and for the VCA., I represented them in various age groups. Then, last year, I got my debut match against Pondicherry and took four wickets. Then, this year, I got my debut in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy - something like four overs, 23 runs, one wicket, I took. So, I'm happy, I'm doing well, it's all about hard work, and I'm doing that, he elaborated. A key chapter in shaping this fearless prodigy has been his time at the MRF Pace Foundation in Chennai, where an exposure trip to Australia and being under bowling coach Glenn McGrath sharpened both his skills and his sense of where he stood among the country's best pacers. I got a lot of confidence there, and especially I got to know how much I can develop myself and my fitness when foreign fast bowlers came. I mean, fast bowlers from every state came there, and I got to know where I stand and where I have to be. So, then I started working on myself. After that, I went to Australia as well. It was a very good experience there. Every year, two boys are taken to Australia. So, when I bowled on their wickets and came to India, it was very good, and I enjoyed it. While recovering from a stress fracture in the back, Hinge found a guide in Varun Aaron, the current SRH pace bowling coach and ex-India pacer, who himself had multiple stress fractures. Aarons own experience as a fast bowler gives him a unique understanding of what Hinge needs - without overcomplicating things. He's been very good. Like, he was a fast bowler, and he understands fast bowlers. So, the mutual understanding between a fast bowler can only be understood by a fast bowler. He works on what I feel is right. He doesn't tell me anything extraordinary - like, you do this, you do that. He just tells me what my body needs and something that can help me in bowling. While recovering from a stress fracture in the back, Hinge found a guide in Varun Aaron, the current SRH pace bowling coach and ex-India pacer, who himself had multiple stress fractures. Aarons own experience as a fast bowler gives him a unique understanding of what Hinge needs - without overcomplicating things. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Catch Sunrisers Hyderabad in action against Rajasthan Royals in TATA IPL 2026, April 25, 7:30 PM onwards, LIVE on JioHotstar and Star Sports Network. Article Source: IANS
Naseem Shah limps off after hurting his knee in the field
The Rawalpindiz fast bowler hurt his left knee while trying to stop a boundary against Islamabad United
Indian Premier League: South Africas left-arm fast bowling all-rounder Marco Jansen has been emerging as a genuine all-rounder for Punjab Kings (PBKS). In last years Indian Premier League (IPL), Jansen finished as PBKS joint second-highest wicket-taker with 16 scalps from 14 matches. While known for his Power-play spells, Jansens best returns came in the middle overs, where he claimed six wickets at 8.5 runs per over. After having a good time for the Proteas in the T20 World Cup, Jansen has been a vital cog in PBKS bowling wheel, as the side remains the only unbeaten team in IPL 2026. In a virtual roundtable chat facilitated by the franchise ahead of their clash against Delhi Capitals, Jansen reflected on skipper Shreyas Iyer, being a first-change bowler, how hard lengths have given him good returns in the shortest format, and more. Excerpts: Q. What kind of leader is Shreyas Iyer, and the reason behind him being an inspirational skipper A. Shreyas, as a captain, is definitely up there, if not on top. He's a pleasure to work with. He knows what he's doing. He knows what he wants from the players. He motivates and drives us to play our best. It gives us the space to do what we do well, if that makes sense. It's not a case of it's his way or the highway type of thing, which I think is a very nice feeling as a bowler and a player. He knows what he wants. He knows what he wants to achieve. He's very goal-driven. He's very headstrong. It's very easy to see when we are in meetings and stuff like that, and in training. He's very driven. I think from a team's point of view, it's nice to have a captain like that. So it's like you sort of just follow his lead. He's going to lead the team in a way where it's going to put the team in a position to not just win games, but also, if you're lucky enough, win a trophy as well. It's nice to play under his captaincy. He's up for discussions. He's always welcoming. It's never a case of it feels like a dictatorship. He makes everyone feel valued and welcomed. As a player, it's very, very nice to have a captain like that where you feel you can go to the captain, you can express, or you can speak about certain things about the game. Not just that, but he'll give his advice, or he'll give his two cents about it as well, and then he'll formulate a plan with you to help you get better if need be and to take the team forward and stuff like that, which is nice. Q. With Xavier Bartlett sharing the new ball with Arshdeep Singh, how has it been for you to adapt, especially with batters looking to hit hard at the bowlers? A. I'm used to taking the first or second over, but I also know that I do have the skills to adapt to whatever situation or to adapt to any situation or any particular time in the match to come in and do a job for the team. Obviously, as a swing bowler or someone who's used to bowling with the new ball, you do have a weapon in your hand as well. So coming in in the third, fourth, or sometimes fifth over is definitely a different approach that I had to take. But it's not a case of me thinking that I can't do a job or I can't take wickets or thinking, okay, cool, there is my weapon taken away. It's nothing like that. Its actually the opposite because Arshdeep and Xavier swing the ball consistently and more than I do. I understand that. At the same time, I also realise and understand that I have different attributes, different skills that I bring to the bowling unit and to the table. It's just from a bowling unit; everyone knows that wherever we bowl, there's a plan, there's a reason. It's not a case of, in my case, that they don't believe I can't do a good job bowling the first or second over with the new ball. It's a case of how are we going to bowl well with the ball as a unit, if that makes sense. Yuzi (Chahal) is bowling in the middle, Shashank is not bowling in the first few games, and then all of a sudden comes in and takes two in his first over in this season. So I think it's a good place to be. It's a nice place to be at as a bowler and a player and as a bowling unit because we know it doesn't matter where we bowl, or where Shreyas decides to bowl a certain bowler or a particular bowler. We know there's a reason behind it, and we know that whoever has the ball in his hands at that particular time, whether it's in a power play in the middle or at the death, we fully believe and we trust that that guy will do the best job for the team. Q. You have been sticking to hard lengths more often than not. Do you think that has been one of the reasons for you doing well in both Test cricket and T20 as well? A. It doesn't surprise me because Josh Hazlewood does the exact same. People still ask the same. I still ask the same question. How does he just hit a length and he picks up wickets, he doesn't go for a lot of runs, and he's consistent as well. He also has variations. I also have one or two variations. But I think it comes down to both of us. We're tall bowlers. We bowl different lengths. There's something different we give to a bowling unit that makes sense. I think the problem, especially when I was younger, was that I came in where I was trying to bowl similar to what other guys were bowling, if it makes sense. Not realising that what I bring to the table is different or is completely different from what other bowlers are bringing to the table. I have to find my own way to be effective and to put in consistent performances for the team. I think the last year or so, I've felt comfortable in my own skin. I've felt comfortable in doing what I feel is best to help me stay consistent and perform consistently. Obviously, you're going to get your off days, but the goal is just to try and stay consistent and not have those good performances few and far between so try and stack them as close as possible. Q. Do you have a different approach to your bowling plan for the afternoon matches compared to the evening ones, keeping in mind the pitch and conditions? A. No, it's the same approach. I think just what I bowl or the options change based on the conditions. So if a wicket is good, like the previous game, the wicket was really, really good for batting, we felt. That approach, sort of on the go, you sort of try and formulate a way of going about it. There's no set way of bowling, or there are no preconceived ideas about how I want to go about it. I obviously have the basics that I stick to and that I always do, and I always follow the processes that I follow. But it's always a case of trying to sum up the conditions as quickly as possible and then finding a way to be as effective as I can be on that particular day. Q. What has been the discussion within the bowling group, and how have you been able to support each other on the field in terms of defensive tactics in death overs? A. It's not a case of going defensively. I think it's a case of we're trying, we're always assessing and thinking of ways to stop the opposition from scoring and obviously make it as hard as possible for them to score runs, especially at the death and in the power play as well. But we just approach it differently because in the power play, you only have two fielders out, and at the death and in the middle overs, you have five fielders out. So it makes it a bit easier for us as a bowling unit to sort of bowl towards a certain plan if it makes sense to bowl. There are more fielders who can help you get wickets. A. It's not a case of going defensively. I think it's a case of we're trying, we're always assessing and thinking of ways to stop the opposition from scoring and obviously make it as hard as possible for them to score runs, especially at the death and in the power play as well. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Because batters are so good, they hit sixes over the point these days. I don't know how they do it, but they do it. So it's quite difficult to set a particular plan for all the batters. It's just about trying to be smart and just basically keeping them on their toes. You always have to make the batter think twice or guess what the next ball is going to be. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: When And Where To Watch RCB Vs GT, Know All Details
Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International: Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will clash with 2022 champions Gujarat Titans (GT) in the 34th match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 to be played at M.Chinnaswamy Stadium on Friday. The defending champions suffered their first home defeat of the season when they went down to the Delhi Capitals on April 18. Despite that setback, they have been among the standout sides in IPL 2026 and will aim to bounce back strongly in their final home fixture at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. Following this game, they are scheduled to play their remaining two league-stage home matches at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium in Raipur. Meanwhile, the Gujarat Titans head into the contest after a heavy 99-run defeat against the Mumbai Indians at the Narendra Modi Stadium on April 20. That loss ended their three-match winning run, and they will be keen to regroup quickly. However, overcoming one of the IPLs most challenging venues presents a significant test. The head-to-head record between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Gujarat Titans has been evenly contested over the years. In six matches played so far, both teams have won three games each, with no ties or no results recorded. Their first-ever meeting came on April 30, 2022, which was won by the Gujarat Titans, and they also emerged victorious in the most recent encounter on April 2, 2025. When: Friday, April 24, 7:30 PM IST Where: M.Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru Where to watch: The RCB vs GT match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Squads: Where to watch: The RCB vs GT match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Philip Salt, Virat Kohli, Devdutt Padikkal, Rajat Patidar(c), Jitesh Sharma(w), Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, Suyash Sharma, Rasikh Salam Dar, Venkatesh Iyer, Jordan Cox, Kanishk Chouhan, Mangesh Yadav, Jacob Duffy, Swapnil Singh, Nuwan Thushara, Jacob Bethell, Vicky Ostwal, Vihaan Malhotra, Abhinandan Singh, Satvik Deswal Article Source: IANS
CSK sign up Akash Madhwal as Ayush Mhatre's replacement
Madhwal has played 17 games in the IPL so far and has been part of the MI camp as a net bowler this season
IPL 2026: 'We Back Each Other' - Jansen Credits Collective Thinking For PBKS' Good Run With Ball
Indian Premier League: Punjab Kings left-arm fast bowling all-rounder Marco Jansen said the team's impressive run with the ball in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season is down to one simple principle - collective thinking and backing each other to thrive. While the power-packed PBKS batting unit continues to hog the limelight, Jansen, along with Arshdeep Singh, Xavier Bartlett, Vijaykumar Vyshak, and Yuzvendra Chahal, have provided a lot of variety to their bowling attack in this season so far, with their economy rate standing at 9.64. All the attention and all the fireworks, as you say, are around our batting. I think it's not just our batting, but it's the whole IPL in general. People want to come out and watch the ball fly everywhere. People hit 110-meter sixes and stuff like that, which is understandable. That's what makes the game attractive to the viewers. We as players understand that. But at the same time, people also value, and they also appreciate good bowling. For us as a unit, I think we know exactly what each and every bowler can do and what he does best. I think on a particular day, it's a case of reading the conditions, trying multiple options, Jansen told IANS in a virtual roundtable chat organised by the franchise on Thursday. At the heart of that collective approach, Jansen explained, is a dressing room culture in which every bowler's voice carries weight and no single template is imposed on anyone. If it needs to be, if not, then we just keep it simple. But I think everyone has different skills. Everyone has a different way of going about it. Everyone has a different way of going about bowling in different situations. I think what we've done really well is that it's not a one-size-fits-all approach, if it makes sense. It's sort of like, okay, Vyshak, what do you do? Or what are you thinking? Arsh, what are you thinking? Marco, what do you think? I think we've done really well in embracing each and every opinion and each and every one's view on how they think would be best to go about it, and we sort of back each other. We understand and support one another in whatever way they feel is the best way for them to do a good job for the team, he added. PBKSs attack has built a quiet reputation for control, showing sharp defensive skills at the back end by holding Chennai Super Kings, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Mumbai Indians to totals well below expectations. Jansen also made it clear that this spirit of backing one another translates directly onto the field, where bowlers feel confident enough to execute skills they have specifically worked on in the nets. PBKSs attack has built a quiet reputation for control, showing sharp defensive skills at the back end by holding Chennai Super Kings, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Mumbai Indians to totals well below expectations. Also Read: Live Cricket Score So I think for us, it's nice to see that we're at least executing what we're training to do. Also, we're actually going into games and match days where we've trained a particular skill and are executing that and putting the team in a position where we can win that particular game, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: CSK Sign Akash Madhwal As Replacement For Injured Mhatre
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: Five-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have signed Akash Madhwal as a replacement for Ayush Mhatre, who has been ruled out of the remainder of the IPL 2026 due to a hamstring injury, for a fee of Rs. 30 Lakh. Having served as a net bowler for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in IPL 2021, Madhwal, a right-arm fast bowler, made his debut for the Mumbai Indians in 2023, wherein he took a five-wicket haul with impressive figures of 5/5 in his debut season for MI in the crucial IPL 2023 Eliminator against the Lucknow Super Giants. However, his performance declined in the 2024 season, where he took only five wickets in five matches. In the previous edition, he played for Rajasthan Royals, claiming four wickets in four games. Overall, he has 23 wickets from 17 matches in the tournament but went unsold at the IPL 2026 auction. Madhwal, a 32-year-old uncapped Indian right-arm medium-fast bowler from Roorkee, was named captain of Uttarakhand for the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy ahead of the 2022-23 domestic season, highlighting his rising prominence in the circuit. However, his performance declined in the 2024 season, where he took only five wickets in five matches. In the previous edition, he played for Rajasthan Royals, claiming four wickets in four games. Overall, he has 23 wickets from 17 matches in the tournament but went unsold at the IPL 2026 auction. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Chennai played their first match without Khaleel against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), conceding 194 runs in 20 overs, and then lost the game. Meanwhile, Mhatre, Indias U19 World Cup-winning captain, began the season strongly for CSK, scoring two fifties in six matches before suffering a left hamstring injury while batting in their recent game against SRH. Article Source: IANS
Nuwan Thushara Withdraws IPL NOC Case Against SLC
Sri Lanka Cricket: Sri Lanka fast bowler Nuwan Thushara has withdrawn his legal challenge against Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) over the non-issuance of a No Objection Certificate (NOC) required to participate in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. The matter, which was being heard before the Colombo District Court, was taken up on Wednesday, where Thusharas counsel, G. G. Arulpragasam, informed the court that the pacer no longer wished to pursue the case. With a significant portion of the IPL season already completed, the petitioner sought permission to withdraw the application. The court subsequently allowed the request and dismissed the petition, according to Sri Lanka Mirror reports. Thushara had earlier approached the court seeking an interim directive to compel SLC to grant him the mandatory clearance after the board declined to issue the NOC for IPL 2026. The right-arm seamer had secured a contract with Royal Challengers Bengaluru and was set to feature in the tournament for a third consecutive season, having previously participated with the boards approval. The dispute stemmed from SLCs decision to withhold the NOC on fitness grounds, with the board reportedly citing the pacers inability to meet required benchmarks. However, Thushara had contested this stance in his petition, arguing that his physical condition remained consistent with that of previous seasons, when he was granted clearance to play in overseas leagues. He also pointed out that his central contract with the board was due to expire on March 31, 2026, and that he had already conveyed his decision not to renew it. According to the petition, he was no longer in the national teams immediate plans, which made the NOC's refusal to grant it appear inconsistent. The dispute stemmed from SLCs decision to withhold the NOC on fitness grounds, with the board reportedly citing the pacers inability to meet required benchmarks. However, Thushara had contested this stance in his petition, arguing that his physical condition remained consistent with that of previous seasons, when he was granted clearance to play in overseas leagues. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Thushara had sought judicial intervention to affirm his eligibility for the NOC and to direct the board to permit his participation in overseas leagues. However, with the tournament already underway, the pacer has now chosen to step back from the legal route, bringing the matter to a close for the time being. Article Source: IANS
Nuwan Thusara withdraws lawsuit against Sri Lanka Cricket
Nuwan Thushara is yet to join RCB at IPL 2026 but the team hasn't named a replacement for him yet
Shanto century takes Bangladesh to 265 in humid Chattogram
He stitched together 160 runs during his fourth-wicket stand with Litton Das, who scored his first ODI fifty in almost three years
'Pooran Is The Catalyst In This': Steyn Points To Instability Behind LSGs Home Struggles
Former South Africa: Former South Africa pacer Dale Steyn offered a critical assessment of Ekanas surface, pointing towards inconsistent selection calls and the dip in form of key batter Nicholas Pooran as underlying issues after Lucknow Super Giants struggles at home continued with a 40-run defeat to Rajasthan Royals, marking their third consecutive loss at home. Head coach Justin Langer attributed the latest setback to the teams inability to adjust to local conditions, describing the surface as a rilliant cricket pitch but stressing that the players failed to adapt effectively. LSG's batting order has seen frequent reshuffling this season. In the latest game, Mitchell Marsh opened alongside Ayush Badoni, while Aiden Markram, who had previously opened, was pushed down to No. 4, following Rishabh Pant and Pooran. The constant tinkering, particularly in the middle order, has disrupted continuity, with players adjusting to unfamiliar roles. Steyn believes the uncertainty stems largely from the team managements dilemma over Poorans form and place in the XI. Pooran is the catalyst in this. The poor form of Pooran just means that you're moving good batters (around) to try and shepherd him. Because I think there's a seed of doubt in the coach's minds that they know they need to play him because of what his potential is, Steyn told ESPNCricinfo. Elaborating further, Steyn suggested that this lack of decisiveness is affecting the overall structure of the batting lineup, forcing proven performers to shift positions in search of balance. Pooran is the catalyst in this. The poor form of Pooran just means that you're moving good batters (around) to try and shepherd him. Because I think there's a seed of doubt in the coach's minds that they know they need to play him because of what his potential is, Steyn told ESPNCricinfo. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With three losses in as many home games, LSG now find themselves under pressure to address both form and strategy, as questions continue to mount over their team combinations and decision-making in a tightly contested season. Article Source: IANS
'If County Cricket Was As Strong As...': Pietersen Hits Back At Cook Over Bethell's IPL Stint
Chennai Super Kings: England great Kevin Pietersen hit back at former teammate Alastair Cook for advising Jacob Bethell to leave the IPL due to no game time and return home to play County cricket, saying the ex-England skipper has no idea what it's like to be in the IPL. RCB acquired Bethell for Rs 2.60 crore ahead of IPL 2025 and retained him for the 2026 season. The all-rounder, who played two games and impressed with a 33-ball 55 against Chennai Super Kings last year, is yet to play a match in the IPL 2026. Bethell had scored a century against Australia in an Ashes Test in Sydney, recorded his maiden ODI century against South Africa and was England's highest run-getter at the 2026 T20 World Cup, scoring 280 runs in eight innings, striking at 152.17. Cook earlier suggested that Bethell should turn to county cricket, with his place at stake for this summers Test series against New Zealand and Sri Lanka, rather than sitting and not doing anything at the IPL. It's not ideal, is it? He's sitting at the IPL, not doing anything. Ideally, he could come back and open for Warwickshire to help England, Cook had said on the 'Stick to Cricket' podcast. However, Pietersen expressed strong disagreement with Cook's opinion, stating that Cook has no idea what it's like to be around the best players in the world and supported Bethell's stay in India. Alastair Cook has absolutely NO IDEA what it's like to be in the IPL. What's it like to always be around the best players in the world. So his opinion on Jacob Bethell doesn't matter at all. Stay in India, Jacob. I know, even though you're not playing, you're learning and will be a way better player, Pieterson shared on X. However, Pietersen expressed strong disagreement with Cook's opinion, stating that Cook has no idea what it's like to be around the best players in the world and supported Bethell's stay in India. Also Read: Live Cricket Score If county cricket was as strong as it was in the late 90s and early 2000s, I'd also want Bethell back playing it now. But, it's NOT! It'll benefit England more by him being in India and he's already shown that, he shared in another X post. Article Source: IANS
3rd WT20I: Wolvaardt Happy With Balance In Power Hitting After Unbeaten Ton Against India
South Africa: South Africa skipper Laura Wolvaardt said she was happy in finding the right balance between traditional strokeplay and power hitting, something which she admitted to working on for the last few years, while hitting a sizzling 15 against India in the third T20I at the Wanderers Stadium. Laura made 115 from just 53 balls as South Africa chased down India's total of 192/4 in 16.3 overs and took an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-game series. I am striking it pretty nicely. Something Ive been working on quite a lot the last couple of years is my power hitting, but Im also trying to find the balance between trying to whack it and still keeping my strokes and the way that I play. Im obviously known for more traditional cricket, and sometimes I lose it a bit, try to hit it a bit too hard and lose my game. But I feel like I found the balance nicely to still keep my shape and hit some big shots, said Laura at the conclusion of the game. While smashing 14 fours and five sixes, Laura brought up her century in just 47 deliveries and equal the record for the fourth fastest hundred ever in women's T20I cricket. Obviously worked on a lot of different stuff. But then I felt sometimes I lose my cover drive and I sort of just look at that sort of power hitting, muscling kind of thing. But I think the key thing for me is still my positions. Like yesterday in my training session, I literally just hit cover drives on the floor because I feel like if my positioning is good in that, then the rest of the game will take care of itself. So technically, I'm just trying to be in really strong positions. Just trying to hit long through the ball. It has been a work in progress, sort of finding the balance between trying to whack it in the power play and trying to play my game and to my strengths. But yeah, happy with how it went, she added. Laura also put on a whopping 183 for the opening stand with fellow opener Sune Luus - the second time the pair have combined for a century partnership in the ongoing series. It was an excellent innings (from Luus). I thought she was a little scratchy in the powerplay but she didnt get a lot of strike because I was facing a lot. It was really impressive to see how she hung in there and I think she has a lot of different options which makes it quite hard to bowl to her, especially the spinners in the powerplay because she sweeps so well and she can hit down the ground. Laura also put on a whopping 183 for the opening stand with fellow opener Sune Luus - the second time the pair have combined for a century partnership in the ongoing series. It was an excellent innings (from Luus). I thought she was a little scratchy in the powerplay but she didnt get a lot of strike because I was facing a lot. Also Read: Live Cricket Score South Africa will next take on India in the fourth T20I at the Wanderers on Saturday before the series concludes in Benoni on Monday. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Pant's Yet To Find His Template For White-ball Cricket, Says Karim
Lucknow Super Giants: Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) captain Rishabh Pants struggles in IPL 2026 are rooted in his inability to find a clear batting template for himself in white-ball cricket, said former India wicketkeeper Saba Karim. Pant was dismissed for a three-ball duck on Wednesday, as LSG suffered their fourth consecutive loss of this season. His overall tally in IPL 2026 stands at 147 runs in seven innings at a strike rate of 132.43. A modern T20 batter has to find his own template. For instance, whether it is Shreyas Iyer or Rajat Patidar, even if Rajat Patidar goes in to bat on a track like this, I'm sure he's got his clarity in his mind that he will go and play the big shots, and he's confident of doing so. Rishabh Pant's problem lies in the fact that he's yet to find his template for white-ball cricket. And not only talking about T20, even ODIs. And Test-match batting for him, I think there is more transparency in his thought process the way he prepares. I think somehow in white-ball cricket he's yet to find that, said Karim on ESPNCricinfo. Pants inconsistency has been a major talking point in IPL 2026. While he struck 68 not out against Sunrisers Hyderabad earlier in the season, his other innings have failed to leave an impact as a number three batter. While South Africa pacer Dale Steyn suggested Pant is playing more than one game in his head right now, Faf du Plessis remarked that the pressure to emulate in-form captains like Shreyas Iyer and Rajat Patidar is weighing heavily on Pant. You look at innings like that - who can we look who does that well? So how many times out of ten if you put Virat Kohli in that situation is he going to play in a tempo that's going to be: I'm not going to face dot balls; I'm going to hit the ball along the ground; I'm going to be 60 not out and that's a picture for you on tough wickets when the scoreboard is saying (the target is) 160. How do you get to the end? Look at (Kohli) - he is a great example. High intensity. Drops the risk a little bit. Hits gaps, hits fours, runs really hard, no dot balls. That is a very modern way of playing. It's a default of our game is right now. A lot of teams are talking about how you must be aggressive, how you must take the game on. And, as a captain, you feel that responsibility lies with you to demonstrate that. Great examples: Rajat Patidar is leading the way that the RCB batting line-up's playing, and Shreyas Iyer is leading the way (with) the style of batting (for PBKS). So the captain sets the tone. You almost can't blame Pant (for) thinking 'I need to do the same'. But it wasn't there; you needed just a calm head, just to go The wicket was tough and 'I need to scratch my way to the end of the game,' he elaborated. How do you get to the end? Look at (Kohli) - he is a great example. High intensity. Drops the risk a little bit. Hits gaps, hits fours, runs really hard, no dot balls. That is a very modern way of playing. It's a default of our game is right now. A lot of teams are talking about how you must be aggressive, how you must take the game on. Also Read: Live Cricket Score As a top-order batter with a lot of international runs and experience, this is something he would be very disappointed with. His body language said it all; he knew he got it wrong. If he applies more clarity to his approach early on, he will get far better returns. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Dominance Is Our Mindset, But Adaptability Is Our Strength, Says RCB Skipper Patidar
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) captain Rajat Patidar has attributed his sides strong start to IPL 2026 to a balance between aggressive intent and situational adaptability, as the defending champions continue to build momentum with eight points from six matches. Speaking on the RCB Podcast, Patidar emphasised that while the teams core philosophy revolves around dominance, flexibility remains key to their success as a batting unit. Dominance is our mindset, but we dont want to be rigid. We want to assess the situation and adapt. That flexibility is very important for us as a batting unit, he said on the RCB Podcast. Patidar himself has led from the front with the bat, scoring 230 runs at an exceptional strike rate, and credited a shift in mindset as the driving force behind his evolution as a batter. The biggest change in my batting has come from the mind. How I see the game, how I see myself in a situation, and how I want to dominate, everything started from there. I worked on a few trigger movements and discussed it with DK. Once I was convinced, I didnt want to hold back in matches. That clarity helped me execute better, he said. Highlighting RCBs fearless batting template, Patidar underlined that instinct often takes precedence over rigid planning, particularly when it comes to taking on bowlers and maintaining pressure. There is no fixed plan that I will play a certain way. If I feel I can dominate a bowler, I go for it. It is more instinct than planning. If someone feels they can dominate a bowler, they take responsibility. Even if it means not rotating strike. The idea is to keep the bowler under pressure, he stated. On leadership, Patidar described himself as someone who prioritises the mental space of his bowlers, especially in the high-pressure T20 format, while maintaining a calm demeanour on the field, as he said, I see myself as a bowling captain. In T20 cricket, bowlers are always under pressure, so I try to keep them in a good space and not show too many reactions. I am not very expressive by nature. I try to stay calm and think clearly in every situation. I dont want to change who I am as a person. The RCB skipper also spoke about the influence of senior players in shaping his outlook, particularly the importance of staying present and focused on controllable factors. He said, I have learnt a lot by observing players like Virat bhai. The biggest thing is to stay in the present and focus only on what is in your control. I dont think about selection or what people are saying. I focus on what I can do in the present. That gives me clarity and calmness. Reflecting on RCBs title-winning campaign last season, Patidar admitted the significance of the achievement truly resonated only after witnessing the fans reactions, while also acknowledging the pressure moments that came with it. When we won, it felt special, but when I saw the fans and their reactions, I realised something big had happened. That is when it really sank in. In the last over, even though we knew we were close, there was still a thought that something could go wrong. That pressure is natural in such moments, Patidar noted. Reflecting on RCBs title-winning campaign last season, Patidar admitted the significance of the achievement truly resonated only after witnessing the fans reactions, while also acknowledging the pressure moments that came with it. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Looking ahead, Patidar reiterated that the team remains grounded despite their success, focusing on processes rather than past achievements. As champions, every team will come harder at us. But for us, it is about staying in the present, focusing on our process, and controlling what we can, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
MI Should Look To Use Rohit Purely As A Batter Or Impact Player, Says Bangar Ahead Of CSK Clash
Chennai Super Kings: As the Mumbai Indians prepare for a high-stakes clash against arch-rivals Chennai Super Kings at the Wankhede Stadium on Thursday, former India cricketer Sanjay Bangar believes that the team should look to utilise Rohit Sharma and have him in the playing XI, either as a pure batter or as an impact player for the batting innings. One of the biggest talking points ahead of the clash is the potential return of former captain Rohit Sharma, who has been recovering from a hamstring issue. Bangar suggested that even a limited role for Rohit could have a significant impact on MIs fortunes. Even if its purely as a batter or impact player, MI should look to use him. Strong starts are crucial, and the most successful teams this season have had both batting and bowling firing together. If Rohit and Quinton de Kock can build a solid opening stand, it eases the pressure on Suryakumar Yadav and the middle order. At this stage, MI should consider taking a calculated risk on his fitness and use him as an impact substitute, Bangar told JioStar. Bangars assessment comes at a time when Mumbai are still searching for stability, particularly with underwhelming returns from senior players like Suryakumar Yadav and skipper Hardik Pandya. However, the return of experienced names could provide a timely boost. With both teams struggling for consistency and placed in the lower half of the table, Mumbai head into the contest on the back of a much-needed win, powered by a century from Tilak Varma. Bangar pointed out that contributions from key players indicate that confidence within the MI camp remains intact. Bangars assessment comes at a time when Mumbai are still searching for stability, particularly with underwhelming returns from senior players like Suryakumar Yadav and skipper Hardik Pandya. However, the return of experienced names could provide a timely boost. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With both teams desperate to climb up the standings and reignite their campaigns, Bangars remarks underline the importance of experience and balance as MI look to turn their season around in one of the IPLs most storied rivalries. Article Source: IANS
Ed Smith joins ECB board as non-executive director
Former national selector returns to governing body in place of outgoing Baroness Zahida Manzoor
Former Indian Premier League: Former Indian Premier League (IPL) chairman Lalit Modi launched a scathing critique of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday, accusing the governing body of killing its players through hectic scheduling, emphasising that players need off time to spend with their families. Earlier, several reports suggested that head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Shubman Gill are reportedly not happy with BCCI deciding to schedule the Afghanistan Test just days after the conclusion of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season. In a social media post, Modi reacted to reports of senior players potentially being rested for upcoming international fixtures due to burnout following the IPL 2026 season. He urged the Board to cease the outrageous scheduling to the welfare of the players. I agree. The BCCI are killing their players with the hectic scheduling. Guys stop this outrageous scheduling you are putting the boys through. They need time with their families and JUST OFF TIME you dont need the money. I CREATED ANNUITY REVENUE which the world envys. You will never have to worry about that sitting on those chairs. Do something good with your decisions, for heaven's sake. The welfare of the players is paramount. Dont overwork them that's why I have said the Board should have a majority of players on it. In a social media post, Modi reacted to reports of senior players potentially being rested for upcoming international fixtures due to burnout following the IPL 2026 season. He urged the Board to cease the outrageous scheduling to the welfare of the players. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The India vs Afghanistan Test doesn't have World Test Championship points at stake. Hence, the selectors can afford to take the match a little easier and give opportunities to some emerging stars. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: I Was Just Calculating The Overs, Jadeja Explains Tactical Wit In RRs Win
Lucknow Super Giants: Ravindra Jadeja explained the strategy behind his influential innings and tactical bowling adjustments following Rajasthan Royals' 40-run victory over Lucknow Super Giants at the Ekana Stadium in IPL 2026. Jadejas unbeaten 43 off 29 balls came when RR were struggling at 110/6, and his late charge with Shubham Dubey raised the visitors' total to 159, a score that was more than sufficient on a difficult pitch. Jadeja reflected that the pitch and LSGs pace attack made early strokeplay challenging, considering the conditions and his batting approach. When I was batting, it wasnt that easy. LSG have quality fast bowlers, who were bowling with pace and in good areas. It was a red-soil surface, so there was bounce, and they were getting the ball to seam. We kept losing wickets and couldnt build any partnerships. So, Donovan and I spoke about taking the innings deep. But in T20 cricket, you have to keep taking risks here and there to get to a good score. Unfortunately, he got out at the wrong time, Jadeja told JioStar. I was just calculating the overs and was aware that Mayank Yadav might bowl the final over. I just wanted to use his pace, with a short leg-side boundary and mid-off and mid-on both up. Three of the deliveries were short, and he played a bluff by bowling one full, but luckily, I was able to score a boundary off that as well. We got those 20 runs, and as a team, you gain confidence when your bowlers have a few extra runs to play with, he added. Jadejas late acceleration, particularly the 20-run final over off Mayank Yadav, shifted momentum decisively in RRs favour, giving their bowlers a cushion to attack. The all-rounder also shed light on his bowling strategy, which played a role in choking LSGs middle order, including the key wicket of Nicholas Pooran. When I was batting against Digvesh Rathi, a few of his deliveries were stopping in the wicket. So, I thought that if I bowled slow on this surface, I might get some purchase as well. I didnt want to give any pace to either Mitch Marsh or Pooran, because they are big hitters and are known to hit big. So, I bowled slower, but I also wanted to vary my pace, as I didnt want to be predictable. If they hit a six or two, all the pressure built earlier gets released, reducing the margin of runs required, he stated. His disciplined spell complemented a fiery effort from Jofra Archer, who returned figures of 3-20, as RR bowled LSG out for just 119 in 18 overs. Jadeja also addressed questions around his role and adaptability, especially after not completing his full quota of overs in some earlier games, stressing that team requirements always come first. When I come to the ground, I leave my personal ego in the hotel room. I just think about contributing in whatever way the team wants from me. When it comes to batting, I wanted to take it deep in this game, because if I had gotten out in the 17th or 18th over playing a wrong shot, we wouldnt have reached 159 and might have fallen 2025 runs short. His disciplined spell complemented a fiery effort from Jofra Archer, who returned figures of 3-20, as RR bowled LSG out for just 119 in 18 overs. Jadeja also addressed questions around his role and adaptability, especially after not completing his full quota of overs in some earlier games, stressing that team requirements always come first. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The win lifted Rajasthan Royals to second place on the points table, while LSG slumped to their fourth straight defeat. Article Source: IANS
ICC calls Knight Riders' MLC base in Pomona 'cricket's home for LA28'
The venue at Fairplex will serve as Los Angeles Knight Riders' home venue at MLC 2026 and is expected to be the primary venue for cricket at the 2028 Olympic Games
DC Pacer Starc Cleared By Cricket Australia, Set For IPL Return From May 1
Indian Premier League: Australia pace spearhead Mitchell Starc has received clearance from Cricket Australia to resume competitive cricket and is set to join Delhi Capitals in India for the remainder of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season. Starc, who had been recovering from elbow and shoulder issues sustained during the Australian summer, is expected to link up with DC shortly and gradually build his bowling workload. The left-arm quick is likely to make his first appearance of the season in Delhis May 1 clash against Rajasthan Royals, after missing the initial phase of the tournament. The injury setback came after an intense stretch of cricket for Australia, where Starc featured in all five Tests during their dominant 4-1 Ashes triumph, earning player-of-the-series honours, before turning out for the Sydney Sixers in the Big Bash League. Delhi Capitals, who currently sit fifth on the points table with a 3-3 record, will hope Starcs arrival boosts their bowling attack, led so far by Lungi Ngidi, who has picked up seven wickets in six matches. Starc had earlier addressed criticism surrounding his delayed arrival through a strongly worded social media post, reaffirming his commitment to the franchise. Despite the opinions and views of certain individuals with their platforms in and through the Indian media, I'm currently rehabbing and managing an injury in my shoulder and elbow of which I didn't know the extent of during the Australian summer. These individuals have made some strong statements around involvement in the IPL and provided heavily misinformed opinions of players, preached them as facts, and claim to know my body better than me. Starc had earlier addressed criticism surrounding his delayed arrival through a strongly worded social media post, reaffirming his commitment to the franchise. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Meanwhile, fellow Australian quick Pat Cummins is also set to play his first game of the season and return to captaincy for SRH this weekend. Cummins, who has been managing a back stress issue, was recently cleared to return to action following positive scan results and is expected to feature in Hyderabads upcoming fixture against Rajasthan. Article Source: IANS
Playing 'more than one game in his head' confusing Pant
Rishabh Pant's problem lies in the fact that he's yet to find his template for white-ball cricket, Saba Karim says after the LSG captain's latest failure
Inter Miami Beat Salt Lake To Extend Unbeaten Streak To Eight
Inter Miami CF: Inter Miami CF sealed a valuable 2-0 victory on the road over Real Salt Lake here at America First Field with stunners from midfielder Rodrigo De Paul and striker Luis Suarez securing the result. With the win, Inter Miami extended its current unbeaten run this regular season to eight, and improved its record on the road to five wins, a draw, and a loss for a total 16 points - the best record on the road this season in MLS. The first 45 minutes presented a close matchup. Messi generated the best chance during the first half in the 22nd minute, with a left-footed hit from the left end of the box that forced a save from RSLs keeper. The match ultimately remained scoreless entering half time. The start of the second half presented a key intervention in goal from St. Clair in the 59th minute. The Canadian international stood tall to deny Alexandros Katraniss attempt from the center of the box, Inter Miami reports. Miami broke the deadlock through a stunner from De Paul in the 82nd minute. Segovia played a pass to De Paul outside the box down the left side of the pitch directly from a corner kick, where El Motorcito set up before curling the ball to the top-right corner from long range as he tallied his second strike this regular season. The assist, meanwhile, was Segovias fifth as he remains our top assist provider this league campaign. The start of the second half presented a key intervention in goal from St. Clair in the 59th minute. The Canadian international stood tall to deny Alexandros Katraniss attempt from the center of the box, Inter Miami reports. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The 0-2 scoreline held through the final whistle for Inter Miami to pick up a second consecutive victory on the road and extend its unbeaten run to eight in MLS regular season action. Article Source: IANS
3rd WT20I: We Didn't Have Any Second Answer, Says Harmanpreet After Crushing Defeat To SA
T20 World Cup: India skipper Harmanpreet Kaur said that the South African batters did not give them a single chance to come back in the game even though the team put up a formidable target of 193 after their heavy defeat in the third T20I of the five-match series. The Women in Blue suffered their third consecutive loss in the series as the hosts took an unassailable 3-0 lead. India finished at 192/4 riding on some brilliant hitting by Kaur (66) and opener Shafali Verma (64). After a 68-run opening stand with Mandhana, Shafali joined hands with the captain as the duo put up a 73-run stand for the third wicket. However, the target seemed too little for the Proteas, who were powered to a humongous victory courtesy of skipper Laura Wolvaardts record 115-run knock. We were really looking at the score and that wasn't that bad. We would have put a really decent total on the board, but I think we should give credit to the South Africa batters the way they batted, and I think they didn't give us a single chance to come back in the game, even though a few chances we missed out, but I still feel that the way they were batting, I know we didn't have any second answer for them, Kaur said after the match. While the batters did a tremendous job, Indias bowling unit failed to fire as Shreyanka Patil finished as the lone wicket-taker, ending with figures of 1-30 in three overs. Wolvaardt and Sune Luus put up a massive 183-run opening partnership to carry their team to a win and expose the Indian bowling attacks weaknesses. Kaur admitted that the visitors bowling wasnt up to the mark as she stated, And when we looked at the bowling, I think it didn't go as well as we had hoped it would. I think we were definitely looking a few wickets in the powerplay. I think that will always set the momentum for the game. But unfortunately, as I mentioned, for six overs, they were quite expensive. I think the bowling really really needed to take, I know batting didn't work in the first two games, but bowling in the same way, we are not upto the mark. With the Womens T20 World Cup just weeks away, the ODI World Cup-winning skipper believes that the team has a lot to learn and they need to get better in the forthcoming games, having begun their preparations for the marquee global event. I think as a bowling group, we really need to work hard if we have to keep doing well in the future, but I think it's a lot of learning for us and definitely we will learn and try to get better in the next games, she expressed. Amid severe criticism regarding her form, Harmanpreet unleashed the beat within and notched up a brilliant 66 off 38 deliveries, hitting seven fours and three sixes and striking at 173.68. Having regained form and confidence, the 37-year-old said that she was happy to contribute to the team when it was needed the most. Always good to get a few runs for the team and really contribute when it was needed the most. And I think when you win, you feel okay, you feel happy, but I know I didn't help the team to win the game today, but as a batter, I'm quite happy that we have a strategy and hopefully I can do that, she said. Amid severe criticism regarding her form, Harmanpreet unleashed the beat within and notched up a brilliant 66 off 38 deliveries, hitting seven fours and three sixes and striking at 173.68. Having regained form and confidence, the 37-year-old said that she was happy to contribute to the team when it was needed the most. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Having lost the series, India will now look to avoid a whitewash when the two sides meet again for the fourth T20I on Saturday at the same venue, The Wanderers Stadium. Article Source: IANS
New Zealand opt to field; Tanvir, Mustafizur in for Bangladesh
New Zealand brought in left-arm fast bowler Ben Lister with the series currently level 1-1
ICC Chief Executive Sanjog Gupta: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has welcomed the start of construction of the cricket stadium at Pomona in Los Angeles County, California, marking a major milestone as the sport prepares for its historic Olympic return at LA28 after 128 years. A ground-breaking ceremony was held on the Fairplex Grounds in Pomona on Wednesday, which ICC Chairman Jay Shah termed as a major milestone for the game and its 2.5 billion fans worldwide. These are very exciting times for the game of cricket as it makes giant strides in establishing itself as a global sport. Our focus has been on expanding the footprint of cricket and being part of the Olympic movement is something that brings both pride and dreams with it. The groundbreaking marks an important milestone in crickets return to the Olympics and is a proud moment for all ICC Members and stakeholders worldwide. Were confident this venue will take centre-stage during the Games and leave a legacy for cricket in the USA, Shah said in a statement. ICC Chief Executive Sanjog Gupta, who attended the ceremony, said the world body remains focused on expanding cricket globally, with its return to the Olympics marking a significant step towards that goal. This is a 'ground-breaking' moment in cricket's return to the Olympic Games, both for the sport and for the Olympic movement. The journey over the next two years will see many such milestones which enhance the sense of occasion, culture and community, as cricket's home for LA28 is built in Pomona. With the inclusion in the Olympic Games and other regional multi-sport events, cricket has already stepped into a new era of global growth powered by improved accessibility, elevated visibility and stronger institutional support. The momentum for our game has never been stronger, demonstrated by the recent ICC events which saw record-breaking stadia attendance as well as broadcast and digital engagement, coupled with deep cultural and socio-economic impact. Strong participation growth across the world and recent fan-first efforts by the ICC to grow key markets will further bolster cricket's march into the Olympics, he said. The other dignitaries attending the ground-breaking event were LA28 Vice President of Sports Niccolo Campriani, Pomona Mayor Tim Sandoval, Consul General of India in Los Angeles Dr. K. J. Srinivasa, Knight Riders Sports CEO Venky Mysore, and Fairplex President and CEO Walter Marquez. The momentum for our game has never been stronger, demonstrated by the recent ICC events which saw record-breaking stadia attendance as well as broadcast and digital engagement, coupled with deep cultural and socio-economic impact. Strong participation growth across the world and recent fan-first efforts by the ICC to grow key markets will further bolster cricket's march into the Olympics, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Being part of the Olympic movement helps get more funding and support from many governments and the gap between traditionally strong teams and others has reduced considerably in recent years, especially in the T20I format, which will feature in the Olympics for both men's and women's competitions. Article Source: IANS
Starc cleared to travel to India, hopeful of playing for DC in early May
Mitchell Starc has been cleared of shoulder and elbow issues and will travel to India on Friday with hopes of being available to play for Delhi Capitals on May 1
'Pooran is the catalyst' - Steyn on LSG's batting muddle
The poor form of Pooran just means that you're moving good batters to try and shepherd him, Dale Steyn says of LSG constantly tinkering with their batting order
Laura Wolvaardts Blazing Century Powers South Africa to Record Chase, Seal 3-0 Lead Over India
Riding on a commanding century from skipper Laura Wolvaardt South Africa produced a record-breaking chase to outclass India by nine wickets in the third womens T20I, here at The Wanderers Stadium on Thursday. With the win, the hosts took a 3-0 unassailable lead in the five-match series. Put in to bat after South Africa opted to field, India posted an imposing 192/4, their best batting effort of the series. The opening pair of Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma laid a solid foundation with a brisk 63-run stand inside eight overs. Mandhana looked fluent for her 37, but fell just as she was threatening to accelerate further. The innings briefly stuttered when Nonkululeko Mlaba struck twice in quick succession, removing Mandhana and Jemimah Rodrigues (0) off consecutive deliveries. However, Shafali continued her aggressive approach, bringing up a well-compiled half-century off 39 balls, laced with eight fours and two sixes. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur then took charge in the middle overs, counter-attacking with authority. The duo stitched together a crucial partnership that kept India on course for a big total. Shafali eventually departed for 64 off 46 balls, but Harmanpreet carried on, reaching her fifty in style and finishing with a commanding 66 off 38 deliveries, including seven fours and three sixes. A late flourish from Richa Ghosh (18 off 10) provided the finishing touches as India surged past the 190-run mark. Mlaba was the pick of the bowlers for South Africa with figures of 2/31, while the rest struggled to contain the scoring on a good batting surface. In response, South Africa came out all guns blazing, with Wolvaardt and Sune Luus dismantling the Indian bowling attack from the outset. The pair raced to 72 without loss in the powerplay, setting the tone for what turned out to be a historic chase. Wolvaardt was at her imperious best, capitalising on two dropped chances to make India pay dearly. Dropped on 31 and again on 85, the South African skipper made the reprieves count, registering her highest T20I score with a breathtaking 115 off just 53 balls, studded with 14 fours and five sixes. Luus provided excellent support at the other end, anchoring the innings with a composed 57 off 40 balls as the duo stitched together a match-winning partnership. The Indian bowlers struggled for answers throughout, lacking penetration and discipline, while sloppy fielding further compounded their woes. The breakthrough finally came in the 16th over when Wolvaardt was dismissed, but by then the damage had been done. South Africa comfortably chased down the target in just 16.3 overs, finishing at 193/1 to seal a comprehensive nine-wicket victory. Luus provided excellent support at the other end, anchoring the innings with a composed 57 off 40 balls as the duo stitched together a match-winning partnership. The Indian bowlers struggled for answers throughout, lacking penetration and discipline, while sloppy fielding further compounded their woes. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: India 192/4 in 20 overs (Harmanpreet Kaur 66, Shafali Verma 64; Nonkululeko Mlaba 2-31, Nadine de Klerk 1-27) lost to South Africa 193/1 in 16.3 overs (Laura Wolvaardt 115, Sune Luus 64; Shreyanka Patil 1-30) by 9 wickets. Article Source: IANS
Prince Yadav joins Anshul Kamboj at the top of IPL 2026 Purple Cap table
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi endured another failure, but still managed to get past Virat Kohli to the fourth spot on the Orange Cap table
Sri Lanka Government Tells Cricket Board To Quit: Sources
Sri Lanka's government has urged the national cricket board's executive committee to make way for a new administration by this weekend, a board official told AFP on Wednesday. Sri Lanka Cricket is the country's richest sporting body but it has been plagued by allegations of corruption and mismanagement. It is currently led by four-time president Shammi Silva. There will be an interim administration headed by a former investment banker, the official said, asking not to be named. The government is responding to public anger. Sri Lanka made an early exit from the T20 World Cup, which it hosted with India in February-March. The International Cricket Council (ICC), the world governing body, suspended Sri Lanka's membership in November 2023 citing political interference in the running of the local board. Also Read: Live Cricket Score That suspension was lifted at the end of January 2024.
Sakib Hussain: IPL Quick Whose Mum Sold Her Jewellery To Fund Cricket Dream
Sakib Hussain's father is a labourer from India's poorest state and his mother sold her jewellery to buy him bowling boots. Their sacrifices -- and his tears -- paid off after the 21-year-old fast bowler made an instant impact in the Indian Premier League. He claimed 4-24 for Sunrisers Hyderabad against Rajasthan Royals on his debut this month. After three matches, Hussain averages a miserly 14.16 per wicket and has a superb economy rate of 7.08 -- up with the best in the T20 tournament that is a breeding ground for young Indian talent. Hussain started out playing cricket with a tennis ball in the lanes and patchy fields of the small northern town of Gopalganj in Bihar. Tales of Hussain's mother having to part with her jewellery to fund her son's cricketing footwear have gone viral in India. His father owned a small farm but a knee issue forced him to work as a labourer and earn 200-300 rupees ($2-$3) a day to run the house. It must have been a truly emotional moment for the family, former India pace bowler Irfan Pathan said after Hussain's debut, where his wickets included prolific opening batsman Yashasvi Jaiswal in his first over. He wanted to join the army but getting an opportunity at this level and stage and performing is a job well done. His slower (ball) is dangerous. Hussain was nicknamed the Rabada of Gopalganj locally as his bowling action, raw pace and accuracy began to earn comparisons with South Africa's renowned quick bowler Kagiso Rabada. Hussain's father knew he also had to support his son's cricket ambitions. I was a single earner when this trouble (knee pain) came, so I had to think about providing the basic needs like food for the family, his father was quoted as saying by Indian media. At the same time, people told me that my boy bowls very fast, so I told Sakib not to worry about expenses and focus on cricket. A local coach took Hussain under his wing and soon after he was playing for his state team. Hussain gained selection to the National Cricket Academy camp in Bengaluru, where he caught the attention of IPL teams while playing in the Syed Mushtaq Ali trophy, a national T20 competition. Hussain was part of the title-winning Kolkata Knight Riders IPL squad in 2024 but did not get a game in a pace attack led by Mitchell Starc. The 2016 winners Hyderabad snapped him at his base price of $32,000 in the December auction for this season. I had tears in my eyes when Hyderabad picked me in the auction, said Hussain. This tells you that if you have self-belief then you can achieve anything. My fight is with myself. His proud mother recalled the struggles of his cricketing journey. Also Read: Live Cricket Score He came one day and started crying and said, 'Mummy, I need spikes (boots). How will I play?'
Stadium That Was Symbol Of New Zealand Post-Quake Rebuild To Hold First Match
A new $400 million stadium that was a symbol of Christchurch's struggle to rebuild after a deadly earthquake struck the New Zealand city will host its first match Friday in front of a sellout rugby crowd. A 6.2-magnitude earthquake killed 185 people in February 2011 and toppled or damaged buildings, including the city's old Lancaster Park. The stadium, which hosted international rugby and cricket and was home to rugby team the Canterbury Crusaders, was badly damaged and never reopened. It was bulldozed in 2019 and turned into sports fields, leaving the Crusaders without a permanent home. Government funding for a new stadium was finally approved in 2020, and Super Rugby side the Crusaders will run out at the NZ$683 million (US$404 million) Te Kaha stadium on Friday. The 30,000-capacity state-of-the-art arena is one of the last projects to finish following the devastation 15 years ago. It's real beautiful and a great representation of our region, All Blacks and Crusaders back Leicester Fainga'anuku said. This place has become the heart of the city and it's something our people deserve. From the moment we heard about the new build and what it means to us and our people, it gets you excited. Now it's finally here, we're just ready to get into it and put on a good show. Coach Rob Penney, whose side face the NSW Waratahs to open the stadium, said it had been a long wait. Taha Kemara, who will start at fly-half for the Crusaders, added: It's something we've been looking forward to for a long time and something the city's been waiting for. Canterbury found a temporary home after the earthquake at Rugby League Park, where the team won eight Super Rugby titles in nine years. The ground was a fortress for the Crusaders, partly because of the freezing conditions that could greet unsuspecting away teams. Under a roof at Te Kaha the conditions will be milder, but Penney hopes the fans keep the atmosphere hostile. Fainga'anuku, who usually plays at wing or centre, will switch to flanker for the game and Penney said it was something the All Black had wanted to try for some time. This stadium felt like the right place to do it, Penney said. He loves big environments, loves pressure moments, and we feel he'll add real value against this opposition. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The Crusaders are also bolstered by the return of All Blacks hooker Codie Taylor, while David Havili is back in the starting side at centre.
'I just tried to win the game as quickly as I could' - Wolvaardt scorches 53-ball 115
Skipper not satisfied with 3-0 series win and wants to chase a five-match sweep against India
Wolvaardt seals series for SA with blazing hundred
The result means South Africa have won all three of their home series this season in preparation for June's T20 World Cup
