Cricket News
View News by News Source
Very Pleased With How It Played Out, Says Klinger On GGs Squad After WPL Mega Auction
The Adani Sportsline: Gujarat Giants (GG) head coach Michael Klinger said he was very pleased with how the proceedings panned out in shaping the squad for the 2026 Womens Premier League (WPL) mega auction, held in the national capital on Thursday. The Adani Sportsline-owned franchise secured marquee signings of New Zealand veteran all-rounder Sophie Devine for Rs 2 crore before adding India pacer Renuka Singh Thakur for Rs 60 lakh. The franchise exercised its first RTM to re-acquire Bharti Fulmali for Rs 70 lakh and secured young seamer Titas Sadhu for Rs 30 lakh. Were very pleased with how the auction played out. We picked up the players we wanted and now have a dynamic squad that combines experienced leaders with energetic young players. As a coach, that balance gives us tremendous flexibility. Its always sad to say farewell to some previous players, but were excited for this new chapter. Our core values remain the same, an attacking, fearless mindset. Im confident well see an excellent turnout this season, said Klinger in a statement. In the accelerated round, Gujarat used their second RTM on Kashvee Gautam (Rs 65 lakh) and followed up with three successive buys Kanika Ahuja (Rs 30 lakh), left-arm spin bowling all-rounder Tanuja Kanwar (Rs 45 lakh) and Australia leg-spinner Georgia Wareham, who returned to the side for Rs 1 crore. GG further bolstered their squad with Australia all-rounder Kim Garth and local girl, wicketkeeper-batter Yastika Bhatia (both Rs 50 lakh), alongside talented domestic players Anushka Sharma (Rs 45 lakh), Happy Kumari (Rs 10 lakh) and Shivani Singh (Rs 10 lakh). We are very happy with how things unfolded for us at the auction. We now have several experienced players within the squad, who can guide the group and give us tremendous flexibility in how we build our playing combinations. GG further bolstered their squad with Australia all-rounder Kim Garth and local girl, wicketkeeper-batter Yastika Bhatia (both Rs 50 lakh), alongside talented domestic players Anushka Sharma (Rs 45 lakh), Happy Kumari (Rs 10 lakh) and Shivani Singh (Rs 10 lakh). Also Read: Live Cricket Score They closed proceedings with acquisition of England batter Danielle Wyatt-Hodge (Rs 50 lakh) and Rajeshwari Gayakwad (Rs 40 lakh), while investing in promising youngster Ayushi Soni for Rs 30 lakh. The 2026 WPL season will be held from January 9 to February 5 in Navi Mumbai and Vadodara. Article Source: IANS
Ayush Mhatre To Lead India In U19 Men's Asia Cup
Asia Cup Rising Stars: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Friday named India's squad for the upcoming ACC Mens U19 Asia Cup to take place in Dubai from December 12. India, who are placed in Group A along with Pakistan and two other teams that will join them through qualifiers, will be led by Ayush Mhatre in the continental tournament. Group B includes Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan and Qualifier 2. Teenage sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who recently displayed his hitting prowess in the Asia Cup Rising Stars, will continue to spearhead the top-order batting for India. Vihaan Malhotra has been named India's vice-captain in the tournament. India have put together an exciting squad showcasing some of the brightest young talents poised to shine on the international stage. The team is further strengthened by four standby players; Rahul Kumar, Hemchudeshan J, B.K. Kishore, and Aditya Rawat, who add depth and reliable backup support. India enter the tournament as eight-time champions, the most titles by any country in the competition. India missed out on the title last year after losing to current holders Bangladesh in the final. The eight-team tournament will begin on December 12, with India taking on Qualifier 1 at the ICC Academy Ground in Dubai. On the same day, Pakistan will take on Qualifier 3 at The Seven Stadium. India will next take on Pakistan on December 14 before taking on Qualifier 3 on December 16. The top two teams from each group will qualify for the semifinals, which will be held on December 19. The final of the tournament will be played on December 21. India will next take on Pakistan on December 14 before taking on Qualifier 3 on December 16. The top two teams from each group will qualify for the semifinals, which will be held on December 19. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Standby players: Rahul Kumar, Hemchudeshan J, B.K. Kishore, Aditya Rawat. Article Source: IANS
Tough To Put A Timeline On It: Hazlewood Eyeing Comeback In 'back End' Of Ashes
Josh Hazlewood: Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood says hes aiming to be available for the back end of the Ashes as he is still recovering from his hamstring injury. Hazlewood missed the opening Ashes Test in Perth after a second set of scans confirmed a right hamstring injury he sustained during a Sheffield Shield game for NSW shortly before the first Test, and has also been left out of the squad for the day-night second Test at the Gabba, starting on December 4, as Australia have named the unchanged squad for the second game. Hazlewood, however, has bowled in the nets this week in Sydney with a red ball, boosting hopes that he might get a shot in the later stage of the series, meaning the series may be decided by the time he bowls a Test delivery against England. Its coming along slowly. Ill have another bowl today; I just started the other day. Running and everythings going well, Hazlewood said at the SCG on Friday. Its probably tough to put a timeline on it. I think Ron (Australian coach Andrew McDonald) probably nailed it the other day play a part in the back end, hopefully. Hopefully its not still in the balance, hopefully were on top by then, he added. Hazlewood also stated that fellow quick and Australian captain Pat Cummins was looking strong ahead of a possible return for the Brisbane Test, which begins next Thursday at the Gabba, but Cummins was later left out of the squad and has been given an extra two weeks to return to full fitness. Its probably tough to put a timeline on it. I think Ron (Australian coach Andrew McDonald) probably nailed it the other day play a part in the back end, hopefully. Hopefully its not still in the balance, hopefully were on top by then, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Cummins trained strongly at the SCG on Friday, bowling at what appeared to be full speed to Steve Smith for more than an hour with a pink ball after getting through a similar session at NSW's Cricket Central headquarters on Tuesday and has a strong chance to return to the side for the third match in Adelaide beginning December 17. Article Source: IANS
Australia set to face Zimbabwe in three ODIs in 2026
The series will be tagged onto the tour of South Africa although ZC had also held out hope for a Test match
India to host Sri Lanka for five women's T20Is in December
The T20Is will be played just before WPL, and act as preparation for the T20 World Cup next year
The Khawaja debate: for and against his Test career continuing
Travis Head's remarkable century in Perth, and his comments that it's a role he has talked about doing, is posing a tough call for selectors
Prime Minister Narendra Modi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared heartfelt and encouraging words with Indias inaugural T20 World Cup-winning Blind Womens Cricket Team as he hosted them at his residence on Lok Kalyan Marg. PM Modi greeted the players and coaching staff with the World Cup trophy and interacted with captain Deepika and other team members. He also offered sweets by hand to each member of the winning team and engaged in an encouraging and light-hearted conversation with the players. Congratulating the players during an interaction, the Prime Minister said, Those who work hard and move forward, their efforts never go in vain, not just on the field but in life as well. The Indian team also presented the Prime Minister with a signed bat. He also noted how the teams success had strengthened their self-belief. Your self-confidence must have grown too Earlier, you might have hesitated to talk to your teacher, wondering whether to speak or not, and now you are talking to the Prime Minister, PM Modi added with a smile. PM Modi said meeting the players fills him with pride, as their achievements symbolise Indias rapid progress and the courage of its youth. Whenever I meet you all, I feel proudseeing how far our country is progressing and how much courage these children have, he said. In a light-hearted moment during his interaction with the players, PM Modi compared their on-field ruthlessness to an election analogy. Just like in elections when the opponents deposit gets forfeited you all sent some teams back in just 10 overs. Why are you so ruthless? he said, drawing laughter from the players. The team scripted history by winning the first-ever Blind Womens T20 World Cup in Sri Lanka, defeating Nepal by seven wickets in the final. India remained unbeaten throughout the tournament. In a light-hearted moment during his interaction with the players, PM Modi compared their on-field ruthlessness to an election analogy. Just like in elections when the opponents deposit gets forfeited you all sent some teams back in just 10 overs. Why are you so ruthless? he said, drawing laughter from the players. Also Read: Live Cricket Score This is indeed a historic sporting achievement, a shining example of hardwork, team work and determination. Each player is a champion! My best wishes to the team for their future endeavours. This feat will inspire generations to come. Article Source: IANS
Cummins misses Brisbane Test, Australia name unchanged 14
Usman Khawaja has kept his place in the squad after the back spasms that limited his role in Perth
Cummins Comeback Delayed As Australia Keep Unchanged Squad For Day-night Ashes Test
Skipper Pat Cummins: Skipper Pat Cummins will miss a second consecutive match as Australia named an unchanged 14-man squad for the day-night Ashes Test at the Gabba that commences on December 4. Veteran opener Usman Khawaja included after back spasms prevented him from batting in the second innings of Perth's series opener. Cummins missed the opening Test of the series in Perth with a back injury as the Aussies clinched an eight-wicket victory inside two days, but the pacer has been given an extra two weeks to return to full fitness. The 32-year-old, who is in the final stages of his recovery from lumbar back stress, will travel with the squad to Brisbane. The absence of Cummins means that Brendan Doggett, who claimed five wickets in Perth, will likely retain his place alongside Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland. Cummins trained strongly at the SCG on Friday, bowling at what appeared to be full speed to Steve Smith for more than an hour with a pink ball after getting through a similar session at NSW's Cricket Central headquarters on Tuesday, as per cricket.com.au. The pacer was joined by Josh Hazlewood, who was also missed the Ashes opener after suffering a hamstring strain playing for NSW in the Sheffield Shield a week before the first Test, during his net sessions this week. Cummins trained strongly at the SCG on Friday, bowling at what appeared to be full speed to Steve Smith for more than an hour with a pink ball after getting through a similar session at NSW's Cricket Central headquarters on Tuesday, as per cricket.com.au. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Australia squad for second Test: Steve Smith (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Brendan Doggett, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Michael Neser, Mitchell Starc, Jake Weatherald, Beau Webster Article Source: IANS
Sunil Gavaskar Calls For 'Post-Mortem' After India Test Debacle
Batting great Sunil Gavaskar has called for a post-mortem into India Test cricket after their aura of home invincibility was blown away by a second series whitewash in 12 months. South Africa inflicted a record 408-run defeat on India in the second Test on Wednesday to take the series 2-0. It was India's fifth defeat in their last seven home Tests dating back just over a year to New Zealand's 3-0 sweep. You need to do a thorough post-mortem as to areas that you need to strengthen at the Test level, Gavaskar told TV channel India Today. Bring in an outside perspective. Take Ravi Shastri, Rahul Dravid -- your two earlier coaches. Take Anil Kumble, Sourav Ganguly, Sachin Tendulkar. Sit with them and formulate for the next five years what Indian cricket should be doing. Head coach Gautam Gambhir has come under severe criticism for constantly changing the batting order. But Gavaskar defended Gambhir, saying the players had to take responsibility. He's a coach, said Gavaskar. The coach can prepare a team. But it's out there in the middle that the players have to deliver. If you're not prepared to give him credit for the Champions Trophy and the Asia Cup win, then please tell me why you want to blame him for the team out there on that 22-yard strip not doing well, Gavaskar added. India's batting flopped in the series with their first innings total of 201 in Guwahati their best against an inspired South Africa spin attack led by Simon Harmer. The hosts lost the opening Test inside three days in Kolkata and in the second match mustered only 140, chasing a mammoth 549 target on day five. There was an aura around the Indian team when playing in India. You can see it disappearing in the distance, veteran commentator Harsha Bhogle wrote on X. Former India wicketkeeper Dinesh Karthik said: Teams used to be scared of coming to India to play Test cricket. Now they must be licking their lips. A second whitewash in a span of 12 months. These are tough times for India in Test cricket, and tough decisions might have to be taken. India last month registered a home 2-0 series sweep against a depleted West Indies after drawing 2-2 in England in captain Shubman Gill's first series in charge after the retirements of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Also Read: Live Cricket Score
Nagal bows out of Australian Open Asia-Pacific wild card play-off tournament
Nagal, seeded sixth in the tournament, lost 2-6 2-6 to Yunchaokete Bu of China
2026 WPL Auction: Deepti, Charani Headline World Cup Performers Landing Big Paydays (Ld)
ODI World Cup: The first ever Womens Premier League (WPL) mega auction lived up to the expectations of several World Cup-winning Indian players commanding hefty bids in a cool evening at the National capital on Thursday. Indias premier off-spin bowling all-rounder Deepti Sharma became the joint second-most expensive player in WPLs history after being reclaimed by UP Warriorz for INR 3.2 crore via the Right to Match (RTM) option. Deepti, the Player of the Tournament in the recent Womens ODI World Cup, could have been taken by Delhi Capitals for INR 50 lakh, before UPW took her eventually to make her the costliest player in Thursdays proceedings. DC also invested heavily in N Sree Charani, Indias second-highest wicket-taker in the World Cup, for INR 1.3 crore, and added Sneh Rana for INR 50 lakh. South Africa captain Laura Wolvaardt was another marquee signing, joining DC for INR 1.1 crore. UP Warriorz, meanwhile, brought back pacer Kranti Gaud at her base price of INR 50 lakh and secured Harleen Deol as well as Pratika Rawal for the same amount. They also made one of the days biggest splashes by signing veteran seamer Shikha Pandey for INR 2.4 crore, alongside young Australia batter Phoebe Litchfield for INR 1.2 crore. Royal Challengers Bengaluru strengthened their domestic core with Radha Yadav for INR 65 lakh and Arundhati Reddy for INR 75 lakh. Gujarat Giants picked up Renuka Singh for INR 60 lakh and New Zealands Sophie Devine for INR 2 crore, making her the fourth player to cross the two-crore mark. GG also added India spinner Tanuja Kanwar and Australia leg spinner Georgia Wareham to bolster their bowling depth. Mumbai Indians regained New Zealand all-rounder Amelia Kerr for INR 3 crore, ensuring continuity in their overseas contingent. They also got their previous players Shabnim Ismail, Sanskriti Gupta, S Sajana and Saika Ishaque back, apart from adding a few newbies. Australia skipper Alyssa Healy went unsold, even as Sophie Devine, back after missing 2025, was snapped up by GG for INR 2 crore following a tussle with RCB and DC. UPW secured former DC captain Meg Lanning for INR 1.9 crore, potentially lining her up as their new leader. South Africa skipper Laura Wolvaardt went to DC for INR 1.1 crore, ruling out a Mandhana-Wolvaardt opening pair at RCB. UPW used multiple RTM cards, reclaiming Kiran Navgire, and pacer Kranti Gaud, while also adding Phoebe Litchfield (INR 1.2 crore) and Shikha Pandey (INR 2.4 crore). RCB bolstered their spin and allrounder options with Radha Yadav (INR 65 lakh), Arundhati Reddy (INR 75 lakh), Nadine de Klerk (INR 65 lakh) and England pacer Lauren Bell (INR 90 lakh). GG added Renuka Singh (INR 60 lakh), Georgia Wareham (INR 1 crore) and India quick Titas Sadhu (INR 30 lakh), while DC picked up Charani, Sneh, West Indies hitter Chinelle Henry (INR 1.3 crore) and former South Africa keeper Lizelle Lee (INR 30 lakh). While several uncapped names went unsold, Delhi Capitals invested in 16-year-old Deeya Yadav for INR 10 lakh. The auction also veteran India leg-spinner Asha Sobhana joining UPW for INR 1.1 crore, underlining the demand for spin depth across franchises. UPW also picked Deandra Dottin for INR 80 lakh and reclaimed Pratika Rawal for INR 50 lakh despite fitness concerns. RCB strengthened their domestic core with Arundhati Reddy (INR 75 lakh), Pooja Vastrakar (INR 85 lakh) and Grace Harris (INR 75 lakh), while also adding Dayalan Hemalatha and uncapped keeper Prathyoosha Kumar. GG exercised their RTM to bring back Kashvee Gautam for INR 65 lakh and added Georgia Wareham for INR 1 crore, alongside Anushka Sharma, Tanuja Kanwar, Yastika Bhatia and Englands Danni Wyatt-Hodge. MI added Nicola Carey and uncapped pacer Milly Illingworth, while DC picked up Mamatha Madiwala, Lucy Hamilton and India allrounder Minnu Mani, while UPW rounded off their roster with Tara Norris, Chloe Tryon, Simran Shaikh and U19 World Cup winner G Trisha. The final accelerated round ended with Gujarat Giants signing Delhi batter Ayushi Soni for INR 30 lakh, bringing the curtain down on the WPL 2026 mega auction. WPL 2026 full squads Delhi Capitals: Shafali Verma, Annabel Sutherland, Jemimah Rodrigues, Marizanne Kapp, Shree Charani, Chinelle Henry, Laura Wolvaardt, Niki Prasad, Sneh Rana, Taniya Bhatia, Lizelle Lee, Deeya Yadav, Mamatha Madiwala, Nandani Sharma, Lucy Hamilton, Minnu Mani Gujarat Giants: Ashleigh Gardner, Beth Mooney, Sophie Devine, Georgia Wareham, Bharti Fulmali, Kashvee Gautam, Renuka Singh, Yastika Bhatia, Anushka Sharma, Tanuja Kanwar, Kanika Ahuja, Titas Sadhu, Happy Kumari, Kim Garth, Shivani Singh, Danielle Wyatt-Hodge, Rajeshwari Gayakwad, Ayushi Soni Mumbai Indians: Nat Sciver-Brunt, Amelia Kerr, Harmanpreet Kaur, Hayley Matthews, Amanjot Kaur, Sajeevan Sajana, Shabnim Ismail, Gunalan Kullkarni, Nicola Carey, Sanskriti Gupta, Rahil Firdous, Poonam Khemnar, Triveni Vasistha, Nalla Reddy, Saika Ishaque, Milly Illingworth Gujarat Giants: Ashleigh Gardner, Beth Mooney, Sophie Devine, Georgia Wareham, Bharti Fulmali, Kashvee Gautam, Renuka Singh, Yastika Bhatia, Anushka Sharma, Tanuja Kanwar, Kanika Ahuja, Titas Sadhu, Happy Kumari, Kim Garth, Shivani Singh, Danielle Wyatt-Hodge, Rajeshwari Gayakwad, Ayushi Soni Also Read: Live Cricket Score UP Warriorz: Deepti Sharma, Shikha Pandey, Meg Lanning, Phoebe Litchfield, Asha Sobhana, Sophie Ecclestone, Deandra Dottin, Kiran Navgire, Kranti Gaud, Shweta Sehrawat, Harleen Deol, Chloe Tryon, Suman Meena, Simran Shaikh, G Trisha, Pratika Rawal Article Source: IANS
2026 WPL Auction: Shikha Gets INR 2.4 Crore, Yastika And Pratika Find Takers As Proceedings End
ODI World Cup: Veteran India seamer Shikha Pandey became one of the top three buys in the 2026 WPL mega auction, while Yastika Bhatia and Pratika Rawal found teams despite injury concerns on Thursday. UP Warriorz shelled out INR 2.4 crore for buying Shikha, as in all 67 players were sold 23 of which were overseas players for INR 40.8 crore. The accelerated round began with Deandra Dottin going to UPW for INR 80 lakh after a brief tussle with RCB. Kashvee Gautam was brought back by GG via RTM for INR 65 lakh, after thwarting bids from MI and UPW. Shikha, the veteran Indian fast bowler, sparked a fierce bidding war between RCB and UPW driving the price past INR 2 crore. UPW eventually outlasted RCB to get her services for INR 2.4 crore. ODI World Cup winner, seam-bowling all-rounder Arundhati Reddy drew bids from DC, RCB and GG before the contest settled in Bengalurus favour at INR 75 lakh. At RCB, Arundhati will reunite with close friends Smriti Mandhana and Radha Yadav. MI, meanwhile, reclaimed Sajana Sajeevan after a bidding tussle with UP Warriorz for INR 75 lakh. India allrounder Pooja Vastrakar, currently in rehab after missing WPL 2025 with a shoulder injury, still attracted bids from RCB and UPW before the former secured her for INR 85 lakh. Uncapped wicketkeeper Rahila Firdous went to MI for INR 10 lakh, while India all-rounder Kanika Ahuja was picked by GG for INR 30 lakh. Left-arm spinner Tanuja Kanwar rejoined GG for INR 45 lakh after dodging DC. Australia leg spinner Georgia Wareham was snapped up by GG for INR 1 crore after edging RCB. Uncapped Indian allrounder Anushka Sharma went to GG for INR 45 lakh, with a wry smile present on RCB think tank table. Australian all-rounder Nicola Carey was picked by MI for INR 30 lakh. After that, all five teams were asked to nominate 10 names each as the auction moved into the second accelerated phase after a short break. The second round saw S Meghana, Amy Jones and Darcie Brown go unsold. But Grace Harris found takers with RCB and UPW, her previous team, in the contest before the former took her for INR 75 lakh. Wicketkeeper Shipra Giri drew interest from UPW, who signed her for INR 10 lakh, while Mamatha Madiwala was added to DCs roster at the same price. Pacer Happy Kumari was snapped up by GG at her base price of INR 10 lakh, while Australias Kim Garth was picked by the same team for INR 50 lakh. There was a tussle between UPW and GG for India wicketkeeper-batter Yastika Bhatia, before the latter picked her for INR 50 lakh. UPW, meanwhile, picked hard-hitting batter Simran Shaikh for INR 10 lakh, while MI took Poonam Khemnar for the same amount and wicketkeeper Shivani Singh was roped in by GG for the very same price. USA pacer Tara Norris, who picked a five-for in WPL 2023, was picked by UPW for INR 10 lakh, while the franchise also took South Africa all-rounder Chole Tryon for INR 30 lakh. Uncapped Australia pacer Lucy Hamilton was picked by DC for INR 10 lakh, while all-rounder Triveni Vasistha was taken by MI for INR 20 lakh and Suman Meena was roped in by UPW for INR 10 lakh. RCB roped in off-spin all-rounder Gautami Naik for INR 10 lakh, while MI took seam-bowling all-rounder Nalla Reddy for the same amount. In the final accelerated round, India left-arm spinner Saika Ishaque was picked by MI for INR 30 lakh, while UPW took two-time U19 World Cup winner G Trisha for INR 10 lakh. USA pacer Tara Norris, who picked a five-for in WPL 2023, was picked by UPW for INR 10 lakh, while the franchise also took South Africa all-rounder Chole Tryon for INR 30 lakh. Uncapped Australia pacer Lucy Hamilton was picked by DC for INR 10 lakh, while all-rounder Triveni Vasistha was taken by MI for INR 20 lakh and Suman Meena was roped in by UPW for INR 10 lakh. Also Read: Live Cricket Score DC added India allrounder Minnu Mani for INR 40 lakh, while RCB strengthened their middle order with former GG batter Dayalan Hemalatha for INR 30 lakh. GG signing Delhi batter Ayushi Soni for INR 30 lakh brought the curtains down on the WPL 2026 mega auction. Article Source: IANS
Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi: Para-Olympic athlete Bhavnaben Chaudhary has expressed her joy after Ahmedabad was awarded the hosting rights for the 2030 Commonwealth Games. Calling it a historic and emotional moment for Indian sports, she said, It is a proud moment for India. After 20 years, we have once again received the opportunity to host the Commonwealth Games. This event will strengthen New Indias global identity. For young athletes across the country, it is a matter of honour that the 2030 Commonwealth Games will take place in India. Bhavana emphasised the long-standing commitment of Prime Minister Narendra Modis towards Indian sports and athletes. The Prime Minister has always supported sports and boosted the morale of young athletes. In 2010, India performed strongly at the Commonwealth Games and in 2030 we will be even better, Bhavanaben Chaudhary told IANS. The Amdavad 2030 organisers will work with Commonwealth Sport and international federations to finalise a programme of 1517 sports aligned with the recent Sport Programme Review, with additional disciplines such as cricket T20, shooting, hockey, wrestling, judo, rugby sevens, and 3x3 basketball under consideration, besides the option for two new sports proposed by the host. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modis vision, Ahmedabad has emerged as a world-class sports destination with state-of-the-art infrastructure, advanced training ecosystems, and international-standard facilities. Sports experts believe the Games will enhance Indias global sporting stature while boosting tourism, employment, and economic growth. At the Sports Authority of India (SAI) centre in Gandhinagar, athletes are already intensifying their preparations, driven by a shared sense of pride and opportunity. Kabaddi player Somveer Mehra expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Prime Minister, calling the announcement a defining moment: It is a matter of great happiness that after 20 years India is once again going to host the Commonwealth Games. Athletes from other countries will come here, and we will get so much to learn from them. Mehra, who has previously won gold for India, is confident about 2030: We are preparing hard for the 2030 Games. We have won gold for India in the past, and we will once again give our best to make the country proud, Somveer Mehra, Kabaddi player. Kabaddi player Somveer Mehra expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Prime Minister, calling the announcement a defining moment: It is a matter of great happiness that after 20 years India is once again going to host the Commonwealth Games. Athletes from other countries will come here, and we will get so much to learn from them. Also Read: Live Cricket Score She also credited PM Modis perspective on sports. The Prime Minister has always viewed sports from a different and encouraging lens. His role in bringing the Commonwealth Games to India has been crucial. Article Source: IANS
Keep up to date with all the movements around the counties ahead of the 2025 season
Delighted That UP Warriorz Bought Me Back: Deepti Sharma
Match Centre Live Auction Special: Deepti Sharma was sold for 3.2 crore to UP Warriorz via right-to-match, making her the joint-second most expensive player at the WPL. After initially being sold to Delhi Capitals for her base price of Rs. 50 lakh, the Warriorz went for the RTM option, asking DC to give a final amount. With the three-time runner-up finalising Rs. 3.2 crore as the bidding amount and UPW agreed to the same and bought back the World Cup-winning all-rounder for a higher price. Deepti shared her enthusiasm upon rejoining UPW on JioHotstars Match Centre Live Auction Special, after the team won the bidding battle with DC. Im from Uttar Pradesh and have strong ties with UP Warriorz. The management has always been excellent and supportive. The auction was thrilling from the start, and Im delighted that the UP Warriorz bought me back. Im excited to represent them again. The WPL has played a massive role in my development. The year I won MVP, and even prior to that, the intense practice on expanding my batting shots paid off tremendously. That season helped me mature significantly as a batter, teaching me how to elevate my strike-rate strategically by adapting my game plan. For me, thats been WPLs biggest contribution. The atmosphere has been great right from the start. Im feeling really positive seeing new players from different teams join UP Warriorz. Having played with many of them before creates a comfortable vibe. The management remains incredibly supportive, and as I mentioned earlier, the changes I made to my batting two years ago were transformative for me. The WPL has played a massive role in my development. The year I won MVP, and even prior to that, the intense practice on expanding my batting shots paid off tremendously. That season helped me mature significantly as a batter, teaching me how to elevate my strike-rate strategically by adapting my game plan. For me, thats been WPLs biggest contribution. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Its tough to pick just one because players like Phoebe Litchfield and Meg Lanning are performing brilliantly. Meg Lanning has been outstanding in the Big Bash (League), while Harleen Deol shone in the World Cup. Theyre all exciting additions, but if I had to choose, Id go with Phoebe Litchfield. Article Source: IANS
2026 WPL Auction: DC Are Very Clear In Going With An Indian Captain For The Season, Says Jindal
ODI World Cup: Delhi Capitals co-owner Parth Jindal said the franchise was very clear about going with an Indian captain for the upcoming WPL season. At the ongoing mega auction, DC bolstered their squad with key signings of Laura Wolvaardt, Chinelle Henry, Sneh Rana, Lizelle Lee and young Deeya Yadav, while buying back left-arm spinner N Sree Charani. No, no, not at all. I think we are very clear that we would like to have an Indian as the captain. So, depending on who else we land, we already have our mind made up. But let's see what happens, but I mean Laura will add a lot of leadership into the dressing room. But we are clear that we want to go with an Indian captain, said Jindal in the press conference. Getting Laura in meant that DC could look at her as the captain after Meg Lanning went to UP Warriorz, but now they could look at having India batter Jemimah Rodrigues as the skipper. Laura will also fill in as the opener alongside the explosive Shafali Verma. Obviously we went till what where we could go for Meg, but I think in Laura we've got a tremendous player who can fill in those shoes. Not only was she the highest run scorer in the recent World Cup, but she's also someone who's got leadership ability as well. So I think she'll be a great addition to the dressing room I think. We're very excited about our spin attack now with Sree Charani and Sneh Rana both coming in - it's stronger than what we had last year as well. We still have some budget left to go after some more players. So I think its looking like a very good balanced team with Henry also coming in, as she can bowl with the new ball. One of the things we felt we lacked last season or in the last cycle was some explosiveness at the bottom order and she brings that. So with Sutherland, Kapp, Henry and then with Charani, Sneh and then you have Shafali, and Nikki - all who can come in with the ball. We'll have more than six bowling options and we have a very deep batting order. So it's looking good and we've reached three finals. Its time we go one step further and we have to - it's about time, elaborated Jindal. He also talked in length about the growth of WPL since its inception in 2023 and how the ODI World Cup win will create more interest amongst fans for the upcoming season. Three years ago, all the owners took a leap of faith into the women's game, and we're so thrilled that we did that and for us when the bidding happened, we were very clear that this is a sport that is only going to go from strength to strength, and to see 446 million Indians watch the World Cup final - more people watched it than they watched the men's T20 World Cup final live, it shows how far the game has come. I wrote it in one of my tweets as well that the World Cup win in 2025 is the 1983 moment for women's cricket, and I think this season the interest in the WPL is going to be like it's never been before. The number of people who even came up to me and asked me in my office or whenever I go out, say that Hey, November 27 is the women's auction. Who you guys going to get, and are you retaining Lanning? Why didn't you retain Lanning? So many questions, which in the last three years never happened. So it just shows the kind of interest. Three years ago, all the owners took a leap of faith into the women's game, and we're so thrilled that we did that and for us when the bidding happened, we were very clear that this is a sport that is only going to go from strength to strength, and to see 446 million Indians watch the World Cup final - more people watched it than they watched the men's T20 World Cup final live, it shows how far the game has come. Also Read: Live Cricket Score But I hope we get a bigger longer window for the WPL as well going forward. I think it is imminent that either one or two new teams will come in at some point and that's why I think this cycle is such a short cycle with only two WPLs over 14 months. So I'm pretty sure that the BCCI is planning on adding a team, and maybe with that addition, we move home in a way that would be ideal for the fans, for the game and for the growth of the WPL. Article Source: IANS
2026 WPL Auction: Anyas Intel Has Been Invaluable, Shes Been Brilliant So Far, Says Malolan
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Royal Challengers Bengaluru head coach Malolan Rangarajan said newly appointed assistant coach Anya Shrubsoles intel has been invaluable in their 2026 WPL mega auction strategy, adding that the former England seamer has been brilliant in her role so far. RCB underlined that England influence by snapping up fast bowler Lauren Bell and left-arm spinner Linsey Smith. First of all, Anya is someone we've wanted on board for a while now and we're very very happy that she's part of our think tank and our set-up. For all the Indians, I will have to unfortunately remind everyone of the 2017 tragic she gave to us. But jokes apart, we've been working with Anya for the last couple of weeks planning our retentions and auctions. It's a coincidence that we have Anya, Lauren Bell and Linsey Smith, so don't have to make any untowards connections there. It was a clear battle between MI and us for the pacer and we are very happy with that. Anya brings a wealth of experience having played for England successfully and also captained franchises and teams around the world who are doing well. You can see the level of calm and intel she brings on board. Its invaluable and can't put it into words, but she's been brilliant so far and I am she'll be even better in the tournament, said Malolan, while replying to an IANS query, in the press conference. Asked about missing out on buying back leg-spinner Asha Sobhana, who was snapped by UP Warriorz for INR 1.1 crore, Malolan said, Talking about Asha first, obviously she was an integral part in RCB's win in 2024, obviously we missed her in 2025 with her injury. Personally I'm very happy for her, she's got a good payday, someone who really deserves what she's got, and knowing her on a very personal front, so I'm very happy for her. As far as what our strategy has been and what we've achieved so far, we've more or less ticked off what we're looking for, trying to get as much as bowling and with our retained players, the idea was trying to supplement them and make them as better as possible. So, very happy with where we are at the moment, still got a little bit of work left, but happy at the moment. Mumbai Indians have been buying back their core players Amelia Kerr, Shabnim Ismail, and Sanskriti Gupta. Head coach Lisa Keightley said getting the trio back was important to their tactic of getting old players back for their title defence. Firstly, we're really excited to have the same core back, we've got world class players in there who can win matches and games of cricket, which is most important. I think sometimes you can underestimate having the same core back. Mumbai Indians have been buying back their core players Amelia Kerr, Shabnim Ismail, and Sanskriti Gupta. Head coach Lisa Keightley said getting the trio back was important to their tactic of getting old players back for their title defence. Also Read: Live Cricket Score We were pretty much on the limit with Amelia, I think most people would have known that, but we think she's worth the money, so we're really excited to have her back, she concluded. Article Source: IANS
PM Narendra Modi Hosts World Cup Winning Blind Women's Team
Prime Minister Narendra Modi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosted the Indian Blind Womens Cricket Team, winners of the inaugural T20 World Cup, at his residence in Lok Kalyan Marg here on Wednesday. Indian team made history by winning the first-ever Blind Women's T20 World Cup in Sri Lanka, beating Nepal by seven wickets in the final. The PM was greeted with the World Cup trophy along with all the players and coaching staff. PM was seen interacting with the captain of Indian team Deepika and other players also offering them sweet with his own hand. The teams success marked a perfect campaign, with India remaining unbeaten throughout the tournament, demonstrating complete dominance. Opting to field first after winning the toss, India restricted Nepal to 114 for 5 in their 20 overs. The chase was nothing short of clinical as India surpassed the target in just 12.1 overs with 47 balls to spare. Khula Sharir emerged as the stand-out performer, scoring an unbeaten 44 off 27 balls, including four boundaries, to guide India home comfortably. In the semi-final, India secured a commanding nine-wicket victory over Australia, while Nepal advanced to the final by narrowly defeating Pakistan in the other last-four encounter. Opting to field first after winning the toss, India restricted Nepal to 114 for 5 in their 20 overs. The chase was nothing short of clinical as India surpassed the target in just 12.1 overs with 47 balls to spare. Khula Sharir emerged as the stand-out performer, scoring an unbeaten 44 off 27 balls, including four boundaries, to guide India home comfortably. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Indias emphatic title run not only highlights their consistency but also marks a major milestone for blind cricket, paving the way for increased recognition and growth of the sport in the coming years. Article Source: IANS
Rajat Patidar cleared to play after knee injury
The MP captain will be available from the third round of SMAT matches on November 30
2026 WPL Auction: Prema Bought Back By RCB, MI Regain Sanskriti, Deeya Bought In By DC
Royal Challengers Bangalore: Mumbai Indians brought back off-spin bowling all-rounder Sanskriti Gupta at her base price of INR 20 lakh, while Royal Challengers Bangalore exercised their Right to Match (RTM) card to reclaim leg-spin bowling all-rounder Prema Rawat in 2026 Womens Premier League (WPL) mega auction. Delhi Capitals, meanwhile, picked up 16-year-old Gurugram-based batting prodigy Deeya Yadav for INR 10 lakh, as a majority of uncapped Indian talent went unsold. But theres an expectation that they could find takers in the accelerated round. In the uncapped batters set, Pranavi Chandra, Davina Perrin, Vrinda Dinesh, Disha Kasat, Arushi Goel and Sanika Chalke found no takers. But Deeya got a bid from DC and was picked for her base price. In DC, Deeya will unite with her fellow Haryana team-mate, opening all-rounder Shafali Verma. Deeya came into the attention of scouts after enjoying a breakout time in the Senior Women's T20 Trophy, amassing 298 runs in eight innings at an impressive average of 59.5 and a strike rate of 128, including hitting three half-centuries. Deeya maintained her explosive form in the inter-zonal T20 competition in Nagaland, amassing 151 runs in six innings at a strike rate of 149.5, and took North Zone to the final. Sanskriti, hailing from Madhya Pradesh, was brought back by MI for her base price of INR 20 lakh. It continued MIs policy of bringing back their old players, after previously buying back Shabnim Ismail and Amelia Kerr. Deeya maintained her explosive form in the inter-zonal T20 competition in Nagaland, amassing 151 runs in six innings at a strike rate of 149.5, and took North Zone to the final. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The players who didnt find takers include Humaira Kaazi, Amandeep Kaur, G Trisha, Jintimani Kalita, S Yashasri, Shipra Giri, Mamatha Madiwala, Khushi Bhatia, Prathyoosha Kumar, Nandini Kashyap, Happy Kumari, Nandini Sharma, Komalpreet Kour, Milly Illingworth, Shabnam Shakil, Prakashika Naik, Bharti Rawal, Priyanka Koushal, Parunika Sisodia and Jagravi Pawar. Article Source: IANS
Pakistan opt to bowl in must-win game for Sri Lanka
Pakistan bring in Salman Mirza and Abrar Ahmed for Naseem Shah and Usman Tariq; Sri Lanka are unchanged
'The Entire Nation Is Proud Of You All': PM Modi Lauds Deaflympians For Historic Medal Tally
Prime Minister Narendra Modi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday congratulated Deaflympians for their extraordinary performance at the recently concluded 25th Summer Deaflympics 2025 in Tokyo. At the 2025 Deaflympics, India took home 20 medals, nine gold, seven silver, and four bronze. 16 medals were won by Indian shooters. Heartiest congratulations to our Deaflympians for their extraordinary performance at the 25th Summer Deaflympics 2025 in Tokyo. With a historic best-ever medal tally of 20 medals including 9 Golds, our athletes have once again proven that determination and dedication can lead to outstanding results. Compliments to every athlete, coach and support staff. The entire nation is proud of you all! posted PM Modi on X. This exceeded the 16 medals (eight gold, one silver, and seven bronze) that Indian competitors had won from Caxias do Sul in 2022, making it India's best-ever performance at any Deaflympics. With 12 athletes, shooting had the largest Indian contingent, followed by athletics with 11 players. Dhanush Srikanth defended his 10m air rifle title with a new world record score of 252.2 and Mohammad Vania taking home the silver in the same event; the shooters claimed India's first medals in Tokyo. Minutes later, in the women's 10m air rifle competition, Mahit Sandhu and Komal Waghmare took home silver and bronze, respectively. A rifle ace with four medals - two gold and two silver - Mahit Sandhu was the most successful shooter. Anuya Prasad broke the previous world record in the women's 10-meter air pistol competition. Minutes later, in the women's 10m air rifle competition, Mahit Sandhu and Komal Waghmare took home silver and bronze, respectively. A rifle ace with four medals - two gold and two silver - Mahit Sandhu was the most successful shooter. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Olympian Diksha Dagar, who finished 14 strokes ahead of her closest rival, successfully defended her Deaflympics title in the women's golf event in Tokyo 2025. Article Source: IANS
2026 WPL Auction: RCB Snap Bell And Smith, Lee Picked By DC, UP Include Gaud And Sobhana
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: 2024 winners Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) added England fast bowler Lauren Bell and left-arm spinner Linsey Smith to their roster at the 2026 Womens Premier League (WPL) mega auction on Thursday. Delhi Capitals secured former South Africa wicketkeeper-batter Lizelle Lee, while UP Warriorz exercised their final Right to Match (RTM) card to bring back India pacer Kranti Gaud and brought in leg-spinner Asha Sobhana. Mumbai Indians continued their strategy of getting back old players by including Shabnim Ismail, while Gujarat Giants got in India fast bowler Titas Sadhu. In the keepers category, there were no takers for Isabella Gaze, Amy Jones and Uma Chetry, who was a member of Indias ODI World Cup-winning campaign. Lizelle Lee, the former South Africa opener and wicketkeeper now based in Australia, was claimed by DC for INR 30 lakh. Lauren, the fast bowler from England, was the first name in the pacers set, with RCB and MI trading early bids before the former sealed her services at INR 90 lakh. Known for her ability to hit the deck and swing the ball both ways, Lauren will now reunite with Smriti Mandhana at RCB, who was her former Southern Brave team-mate at The Hundred. While the Australian duo of Darcie Brown and Lauren Cheatle found no takers, Indias ODI World Cup-winning fast bowler Kranti Gaud was back with UPW after the franchise exercised their final RTM card. Listed at a base price of INR 50 lakh, Kranti drew a solitary bid from DC before UPW reclaimed her for her base price. Lauren, the fast bowler from England, was the first name in the pacers set, with RCB and MI trading early bids before the former sealed her services at INR 90 lakh. Known for her ability to hit the deck and swing the ball both ways, Lauren will now reunite with Smriti Mandhana at RCB, who was her former Southern Brave team-mate at The Hundred. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Asha, the veteran India leg-spinner, was at the centre of a bidding war between DC and UPW before RCB entered at INR 60 lakh and drove the contest past INR 1 crore. But UPW eventually got her services for INR 1.1 crore. There were no takes for the likes of Priya Mishra, Amanda-Jade Wellington, Saika Ishaque, and Alana King. Article Source: IANS
ICC Confirms Record-breaking Digital Engagement Numbers For Womens World Cup 2025
Cricket World Cup: The ICC announced that the 2025 Womens Cricket World Cup 2025 set unprecedented digital engagement records, becoming the most digitally consumed womens cricket event ever and one of the most-watched womens sports events globally. The tournament captivated fans around the world, generating 5.2 billion video views, a dramatic leap from the 1.5 billion achieved during the 2024 ICC Womens T20 World Cup. Social media engagement soared to 279 million interactions, more than triple last years figure (84 million), while the ICC website and app attracted 8.5 million unique visitors, up from 3 million in 2024, the ICC said. The title-winning campaign by Team India became a rallying point for millions, with raw, emotional moments from the field resonating deeply with fans. The winning moment alone amassed over 87 million views, while the jubilant scenes from the semi-final surpassed 70 million. Powerful images of sportsmanship after the final gathered 40 million views, and a heart-stirring celebration featuring legendary former players crossed 30 million views, it added. Never-before-seen camera angles and cinematic content also went viral worldwide, including one clip that exploded across platforms and even drew reactions from the players themselves. Sanjog Gupta, ICC CEO, said, The ICC Womens Cricket World Cup 2025 has redefined what is possible for womens sport on the global stage. The scale of digital engagement reflects not just the passion of fans, but the power of the athletes, the stories, and the cricket they produced. This tournament has ignited a deeper emotional connection with audiences worldwide and accelerated the momentum of womens cricket in an unprecedented way. These results reaffirm our long-term commitment to elevating the womens game, through stronger events, broader access, greater investment and a digital strategy that brings fans closer to every moment. Sanjog Gupta, ICC CEO, said, The ICC Womens Cricket World Cup 2025 has redefined what is possible for womens sport on the global stage. The scale of digital engagement reflects not just the passion of fans, but the power of the athletes, the stories, and the cricket they produced. This tournament has ignited a deeper emotional connection with audiences worldwide and accelerated the momentum of womens cricket in an unprecedented way. Also Read: Live Cricket Score These milestone numbers reflect the accelerating rise of womens cricket, the deepening connection between players and fans, and the transformative impact of immersive, digital-first storytelling on the global growth of the womens game. Article Source: IANS
Bangladesh win toss and bowl; Little and Adair back for Ireland
Bangladesh picked five out-and-out bowlers for the first T20I
WPL 2026 Auction: DC Make Big Gains By Buying Back Charani, Add Henry And Rana
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Delhi Capitals (DC) made significant gains at the WPL 2026 mega auction by buying back left-arm spinner N Sree Charani while adding West Indies all-rounder Chinelle Henry and Indias off-spin all-rounder Sneh Rana in their squad on Thursday. After using the RTM card on Deepti Sharma and Sophie Ecclestone, UP Warriorz used it again to get Kiran Navgire back, while adding Phoebe Litchfield and Harleen Deol. Gujarat Giants, meanwhile, used one RTM card to retain Bharti Fulmali, while Royal Challengers Bengaluru added Georgia Voll, Nadine de Klerk and Radha Yadav. While S Meghana and Tazmin Brits found no takers, India batter Bharti Fulmali, who previously turned out for GG, was retained by UPW via RTM card after MI pushed her price to Rs 70 lakh. Soon after, UPW secured Australian opener Phoebe Litchfield for Rs 1.2 crore by outbidding RCB. RCB, though, managed to get Georgia Voll at Rs 60 lakh after UPW opted out of exercising their RTM, with the right-hander likely to partner Smriti Mandhana at the top of the batting order. UPW then reclaimed hard-hitting India batter Kiran Navgire by matching RCBs bid of Rs 60 lakh to bring back the batter who had featured for them previously. The all-rounders set began with Australias Grace Harris going unsold, but there was considerable interest for Chinelle, the big-hitting West Indies all-rounder who featured briefly for UPW last season as a mid-season replacement. RCB and DC pushed her price from a base of Rs 30 lakh to Rs 1.2 crore, before the latter sealed the deal for her at Rs 1.3 crore after UPW opted not to exercise their RTM card. For Charani, a former DC player, the franchise was in a spirited contest with UPW DC also reclaimed another former player after a spirited contest with UP Warriorz. Starting at Rs 30 lakh, the bid escalated past 75 lakh before UPW briefly re-entered at 90 lakh. But DC responded decisively by sealing Charanis singing at Rs 1.3 crore. The all-rounders set began with Australias Grace Harris going unsold, but there was considerable interest for Chinelle, the big-hitting West Indies all-rounder who featured briefly for UPW last season as a mid-season replacement. RCB and DC pushed her price from a base of Rs 30 lakh to Rs 1.2 crore, before the latter sealed the deal for her at Rs 1.3 crore after UPW opted not to exercise their RTM card. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Radha, Indias left-arm spin bowling all-rounder, was picked up by RCB for Rs 65 lakh after GG opened the bidding at her base price of 30 lakh. UPW, meanwhile, secured Harleen Deol for Rs 50 lakh after GG declined to use their RTM card. Article Source: IANS
UP Warriorz buy Deepti Sharma for INR 3.2 crore; Healy unsold in first round
Sophie Devine was the first player sold at the WPL mega auction in Delhi on Thursday
Commonwealth Sport General Assembly: As Ahmedabad has been formally ratified as the host of the Centenary Commonwealth Games in 2030, Indian tennis player Zeel Desai shared her excitement, saying this is really a proud moment not just for Gujarat but the entire nation. Delegates of the 74 Commonwealth member nations and territories ratified Indias bid at the Commonwealth Sport General Assembly in Glasgow on Wednesday. It will mark the return of the multisports event in the country after 20 years. India last hosted the CWG in 2010 when it was held in the national capital. India presented a compelling vision for the 2030 Games, centred in the Gujarat city of Ahmedabad, which will build on foundations laid by Glasgow 2026, enabling India to celebrate the centenary in style. I am very proud that the Commonwealth Games 2030 are going to be held in Ahmedabad. This is not just a proud moment for Ahmedabad or for Gujarat, but for the entire country. I began my tennis journey in this city, so it feels especially meaningful to me, Zeel told IANS. I am confident that this will inspire many young athletes. The infrastructure being developed, along with the new stadiums that will be built for the Games, is excellent and will further elevate sports in our country. For our Indian athletes, competing against international players who come here will be a wonderful opportunity to learn, grow, and excel, she added. I am confident that this will inspire many young athletes. The infrastructure being developed, along with the new stadiums that will be built for the Games, is excellent and will further elevate sports in our country. Also Read: Live Cricket Score In addition to confirming the hosts for 2030, Commonwealth Sport also confirmed that 15 to 17 sports will feature at Ahmedabad 2030. Article Source: IANS
2026 WPL Auction: UPW Buy Back Deepti, Ecclestone Via RTM; Healy Goes Unsold
Renuka Singh Thakur: UP Warriorz were expected to be busy in the marquee set of 2026 Womens Premier League (WPL) mega auction, and they lived up to the billing by buying back India all-rounder Deepti Sharma and England spinner Sophie Ecclestone via RTM card. But UPW also sprung a surprise by securing multiple World Cups-winning Australia captain Meg Lanning. Menwhile, Mumbai Indians bought back New Zealands leg-spin all-rounder Amelia Kerr, while Gujarat Giants also shelled out big money to buy New Zealand all-rounder Sophie Devine and India pacer Renuka Singh Thakur. In a surprise outcome, Australia skipper Alyssa Healy went unsold at the auction, though theres a hope that she could be back in the accelerated round. The auction began with Alyssas name being called out for a base price of Rs 50 lakh, but found no takers. For Sophie, who missed the 2025 season due to a mental health break following New Zealands T20 World Cup win, GG opened the bidding at Rs 50 lakh, sparking a tussle with her former team Royal Challengers Bengaluru that quickly pushed the price past Rs 90 lakh. Delhi Capitals entered late at Rs 1.1 crore, but GG and RCB kept raising the stakes, with the former eventually outlasting all challengers to secure Sophies services for Rs 2 crore. Deepti, the Player of the Tournament in the recent ODI World Cup win who also captained UPW in Alyssas absence last season, drew immediate interest when Delhi Capitals opened the bidding at Rs 50 lakh and pushed it up to Rs 3.2 crore, but UPW exercised their Right to Match card to reclaim the all-rounder. Deepti also became the second-most expensive player in WPLs history Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) captain Smriti Madhana, who was bought for a whopping Rs. 3.40 crore by RCB during the first WPL auction in 2023. Amelia, part of two title-winning MI squads, was at the centre of a fierce bidding war between the franchise and UPW. Her price surged past Rs 90 lakh and then to 1.7 crore, before it zoomed to Rs 3 crore and was reclaimed by MI. Renuka, a member of Indias ODI World Cup-winning team, went to GG for Rs 60 lakh after a brief tussle with UPW. The evenings spotlight, however, was on Sophie, the gun left-arm spinner, as RCB and DC sparred before UPW exercised their RTM card at INR 85 lakh to reclaim her. DC then engaged in a fierce bidding war with UPW for their former captain Meg, who had led them to three finals. Her price surged past Rs 1.9 crore, before UPW sealed the deal and potentially their new captain. Renuka, a member of Indias ODI World Cup-winning team, went to GG for Rs 60 lakh after a brief tussle with UPW. The evenings spotlight, however, was on Sophie, the gun left-arm spinner, as RCB and DC sparred before UPW exercised their RTM card at INR 85 lakh to reclaim her. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The contest left open the prospect of a Mandhana-Wolvaardt opening pair for RCB, should they hold firm, but DC sealed the deal for Rs 1.1 crore and that meant Laura could open with Shafali Verma in the season. Article Source: IANS
WPL 2026 To Take Place From Jan 9 To Feb 5 In Navi Mumbai And Vadodara
WPL Committee Chairman Jayesh George: Navi Mumbai and Vadodara are the venues for the 2026 Womens Premier League, to be held from January 9 to February 5. The tournament will open at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai, while the final is scheduled to be held at Kotambi Stadium in Vadodara. The announcement was made by WPL Committee Chairman Jayesh George before the competitions first-ever mega auction began in New Delhi on Thursday. IANS understands that the WPL Committee had a meeting at the auction venue around noon to finalise the dates and venues, with the full schedule expected to come out soon. As per the dates announced by George, the fourth WPL final will be held two days before the 2026 Mens T20 World Cup begins in India and Sri Lanka. IANS understands that the rationale behind keeping the second half of WPL 2026 in Vadodara is also due to the Kotambi stadium being set to host the mens ODI series opener between India and New Zealand on January 11. Vadodara was one of the four hosts for WPL in 2025 and now sees getting the entire second half as well as the knockout stages, including the all-important title clash. The tournament will also mark the return of womens cricket in the WPL for the first time after India won the 2025 Womens ODI World Cup on November 2. For now, the focus of all five teams two-time champions Mumbai Indians, 2024 winners Royal Challengers Bengaluru, three-time runners-up Delhi Capitals, UP Warriorz and Gujarat Giants will be to make a trophy-winning squad for the 2026 season. Vadodara was one of the four hosts for WPL in 2025 and now sees getting the entire second half as well as the knockout stages, including the all-important title clash. The tournament will also mark the return of womens cricket in the WPL for the first time after India won the 2025 Womens ODI World Cup on November 2. Also Read: Live Cricket Score New UPW head coach Abhishek Nayar and mentor Lisa Sthalekar are present, while Pravin Tambe and Michael Klinger are representing GG and RCB has newly appointed assistant coach Anya Shrubsole on the table alongside head coach Malolan Rangarajan. Article Source: IANS
Notts open Championship defence at Somerset
County Championship 2026 will be played in three blocks of matches starting in April, June and August
WPL 2026 Auction: Anjum, Veda Feel UP Warriorz Will Go For Laura Wolvaardt
ODI World Cup: Former India captain Anjum Chopra feels that UP Warriorz will go for South African captain Laura Wolvaardt in the Womens Premier League (WPL) 2026 Auction on Thursday. UP Warriorz, who are rebuilding their squad after retaining only Shweta Sehrawat, have the biggest purse of Rs 14.5 crore to spend in the auction. With Laura riding high on the ODI World Cup form and guiding her side to a runners-up finish, her name will likely start a bidding war in the auction hall. UP Warriorz are clearly rebuilding their team completely. They will be searching for a new captain and strong players. Laura Wolvaardt could be their target, she was the highest run-scorer in the Women's ODI World Cup and her batting would strengthen their line-up. She might even become their captain while adding quality to their batting unit, Anjum said on JioHotstar. JioStar expert Veda Krishnamurthy praised Laura Wolvaardt's leadership and batting skills. Laura Wolvaardt performed brilliantly in the Women's ODI World Cup, leading South Africa to the final and showed great captaincy skills. She's the kind of opener who guarantees 350-plus runs every season. With UP Warriorz needing a captain while other teams have their leadership sorted, Laura would be perfect to bring stability to their team with both, her batting and leadership qualities. Anjum added that New Zealand all-rounder Amelia Kerr will be highly sought after in this auction. Amelia Kerr will be highly sought after in this auction. With two WPL titles from the Mumbai Indians and her dual skills as a batting and bowling all-rounder, she brings great value. Her consistent performances with both bat and ball make her a strong contender to be among the most expensive players in WPL's auction. Anjum added that New Zealand all-rounder Amelia Kerr will be highly sought after in this auction. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Teams are watching Pratika Rawal's ankle fracture recovery closely. If she's 80-85% ready by tournament start, she'll attract interest. While her T20 numbers aren't flashy, she provides solid stability at the top, allowing stroke-makers to play freely. RCB specifically need an established opener after trying multiple partners for Smriti Mandhana. Their successful Indian opening combination could work well in WPL too. She might not command a high price but will bring great value to any team that signs her. Article Source: IANS
Pant Pens Apology After 0-2 Whitewash: 'Sorry We Couldnt Live Up To Expectations'
Barsapara Cricket Stadium: Indias wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant admitted that the team 'did not play good cricket' in the recently concluded two-game Test series against South Africa and apologised to the fans for not being able to live up to their expectations. India suffered a 0-2 whitewash at home as the Proteas dominated the proceedings throughout the two Tests in Kolkata and Guwahati. After the reigning World Test champions, South Africa, clinched their first Test win in India since 2010 in the Kolkata Test, the visitors sealed their historic series victory by handing India its heaviest defeat with a 408-run win in the second Test. This was the Proteas' second Test series win in India after their 2-0 sweep in February-March 2000 under Hansie Cronje. Since their defeat on Wednesday, the head coach and players have been under intense scrutiny. Amid ongoing criticism from fans and pundits, Pant posted a picture on Instagram and apologised to everyone who had placed their hopes in the teams victory and assured them that they will work hard to make a strong comeback as a team and as individuals. There is no shying away from the fact that we didnt play good enough cricket over the last two weeks. As a team and as individuals, we always want to perform at the highest level and bring smiles to billions of Indians. Sorry we couldnt live up to expectations this time, but sport teaches you to learn, adapt and grow - both as a team and as individuals. Representing India is the greatest honour of our lives. We know what this team is capable of, and we will work hard, regroup, refocus and reset to come back stronger and better as a team & individuals. Thank you for your unwavering support and love! Jai Hind, Pant wrote. There is no shying away from the fact that we didnt play good enough cricket over the last two weeks. As a team and as individuals, we always want to perform at the highest level and bring smiles to billions of Indians. Sorry we couldnt live up to expectations this time, but sport teaches you to learn, adapt and grow - both as a team and as individuals. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Taking the blame and expressing regret over losing the series, Pant, speaking during the presentation ceremony after the game in Guwahatis Barsapara Cricket Stadium, said, Its a little disappointing. As a team we need to get better. Credit to the opposition they dominated the series. We needed to be clear with our mindset. Cricket demands capitalising as a team, and we didnt do that. That cost us the whole series. Article Source: IANS
Ashes: Pat Cummins Set To Play Brisbane Test
The West Australian: Pat Cummins is set to be included in Australias squad for the second Ashes Test, providing another significant boost following their victory in Perth. Reports earlier indicated that it has not yet been confirmed if the team's captain will play in the game at the Gabba starting December 4. However, The West Australian confirmed that Cummins will be named in the squad that will be announced on Friday. No further players are anticipated to join Australias squad, leaving the teams top-order uncertain following Usman Khawajas back problems and Travis Heads impressive fourth-innings century in the first Test. Initially, there were concerns that Cummins might miss the entire blockbuster series due to a bone stress flare-up in his back revealed in September. However, he has since been able to complete bowling sessions at full intensity, including high-intensity sessions at Perth before and after the Ashes opener. On Thursday, Brendan Dodgett expressed uncertainty about his participation in the second Test, with Cummins recovering well and on schedule. However, he stated that he was mentally prepared to rise up to the occasion if needed in case Cummins was to miss out. Initially, there were concerns that Cummins might miss the entire blockbuster series due to a bone stress flare-up in his back revealed in September. However, he has since been able to complete bowling sessions at full intensity, including high-intensity sessions at Perth before and after the Ashes opener. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Asked if he had heard anything from the selectors regarding the second Test, Doggett added, We are soaking in the win and letting everyone get back to their families. We arrive in Brisbane on Sunday, so I assume conversations will start there about what the line-up looks like for the second Test. Article Source: IANS
Devine upstages Capsey as Scorchers seal victory
The NZ allrounder followed figures of 2 for 16 with 46 off 24 balls
Coach Cant Pick Up The Bat And Play: Ashwin Defends Gambhir After SA Whitewash
World Test Championship: Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin came to the defence of head coach Gautam Gambhir amid the heavy criticism of his strategy and game plan after a 0-2 home Test series sweep against South Africa. Fans and former cricketers raised questions over Gambhirs style of coaching after India suffered their second Test series sweep in two years. In the two-match series, Indian batters looked out of touch and failed to stitch big partnerships or individual scores to give a fight against the reigning World Test Championship winners. Why are we doing this? It's a sport. Managing a team cannot be that easy. And yes, he is hurting too. We must understand that. It might feel nice to get someone sacked, but that's not how it should be, Ashwin said in his YouTube show 'Ash ki Baat'. I've never been that kind of person. It's not about supporting anyone; Gautam is not my relative. I could also point out 10 mistakes. Yes, mistakes happen, but anybody can make them. It's just that when they cost you, they become very expensive, he added. Ashwin highlighted Indias struggles in the series, where they didnt post a total above 201 across four innings. The former spinner also added that the coachs responsibility is restricted to strategising off the field, and the rest remains with the players. We want to ask for responsibility. It's easy, because in Indian cricket, you know it and I know it -- there's a lot to gain and a lot of money involved, he said. So many people are ready to take the job, and there will always be people putting their hat in the ring. But the fact is, a coach cannot pick up the bat and go out to play. What can a coach do? I'm asking you a simple question. Put yourself in the coach's position. You may say a player needs continuity and that there has been a lot of rotation, fine, agreed. But the skill to play and perform is the player's responsibility, he added. So many people are ready to take the job, and there will always be people putting their hat in the ring. But the fact is, a coach cannot pick up the bat and go out to play. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I haven't seen enough responsibility taken by enough players to say the coach is the problem...I didn't see enough from the players side to blame decision-making alone. Sure, decision-making can always be better, no doubt, he said. Article Source: IANS
Union Home Minister Amit Shah: Olympian backstroke swimmer Maana Patel expressed her excitement as her home city was officially announced as the host of the 2030 Commonwealth Games (CWG) and credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for establishing a strong foundation for sports infrastructure in Gujarat. Ahmedabad was formally ratified as the host of the centenary Commonwealth Games in 2030, marking the return of the multisports event in the country after 20 years. The decision confirms that the worlds most populous nation will stage the landmark edition of the Games, after delegates of the 74 Commonwealth member nations and territories ratified Indias bid at the Commonwealth Sport General Assembly in Glasgow. I feel very proud that Ahmedabad will be hosting the Commonwealth Games in 2030. India last hosted the CWG in 2010 in New Delhi, and now, after 20 years, my city will get the opportunity to host such a major multi-sport event. It truly makes me excited to see the city I grew up in achieve something so big, Maana, who was the first Indian female swimmer to qualify for the Olympics in 2021, told IANS. Modi ji had already laid a strong foundation for sports in Gujarat during his time as the Chief Minister. He launched Khel Mahakumbh, which has now evolved into Khelo India. His contribution to Gujarat - whether in sports development or women empowerment - has always been immense. Because of these efforts, many girls were encouraged to take up sports, she added. As a result, Ahmedabad has seen remarkable sports infrastructure growth, including the Veer Savarkar Sports Complex. The city now offers excellent sports facilities, and it makes me genuinely proud to see how far weve come, Maana further said. In September this year, Veer Savarkar Sports Complex in Naranpura, Ahmedabad, was inaugurated by Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Built at a cost of Rs 825 crore, the state-of-the-art facility is spread over 21 acres. It is equipped with an aquatics stadium, a sports centre of excellence, an indoor multi-sports arena, outdoor courts, a community sports centre, and a Fit India zone. It also offers opportunities for training, coaching, fitness, and yoga for both athletes and citizens. In addition to confirming the hosts for 2030, Commonwealth Sport also confirmed that 15 to 17 sports will feature at Ahmedabad 2030. Recently concluded Sport Programme Review outlined the sports which will feature at the Commonwealth Games: Athletics and Para Athletics, Swimming and Para Swimming, Table Tennis and Para Table Tennis, Bowls and Para Bowls, Weightlifting and Para Powerlifting, Artistic Gymnastics, Netball and Boxing. In addition to confirming the hosts for 2030, Commonwealth Sport also confirmed that 15 to 17 sports will feature at Ahmedabad 2030. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The sports under consideration are:Archery, Badminton, 3x3 Basketball and 3x3 Wheelchair Basketball, Beach Volleyball,CricketT20,Cycling, Diving,Hockey,Judo, Rhythmic Gymnastics,RugbySevens,Shooting, Squash, Triathlon and Para Triathlon and Wrestling. Article Source: IANS
Jemimah Rodrigues Opts Out Of Remainder Of WBBL
CEO Terry Svenson: Brisbane Heat have confirmed that star India cricketer Jemimah Rodrigues will not return for the remainder of the WBBL season, granting her request to stay in India following the postponement of teammate Smriti Mandhana's wedding. Rodrigues flew home after the Heats clash with the Hobart Hurricanes 10 days ago to take part in the celebrations, but the event was called off when Mandhanas father fell ill. The 24-year-old has opted to remain in India to support the family, and the Heat said they fully respected her decision. CEO Terry Svenson acknowledged the disappointment among fans hoping to see more of Rodrigues, who was the clubs top international draft pick this year and in her second stint with Brisbane, but emphasised that the franchises priority was her wellbeing. Svenson, in a statement released by the franchise, said, It has obviously been a challenging time for Jemi, so while it is unfortunate that she will take no further part in the WBBL, we were more than willing to agree to her request to remain in India. The Heat club obviously wish her and Smriti Mandhanas family all the best for the future. Jemi told us she was disappointed not to be coming back and has passed on her appreciation to the club and the Heat fans for being so understanding of the circumstances. She has been in touch with the players and wished them all the best for the rest of their games, he added. Svenson, in a statement released by the franchise, said, It has obviously been a challenging time for Jemi, so while it is unfortunate that she will take no further part in the WBBL, we were more than willing to agree to her request to remain in India. The Heat club obviously wish her and Smriti Mandhanas family all the best for the future. Also Read: Live Cricket Score All-rounder Grace Harris returns to the lineup after being rested for workload management, replacing Lily Bassingthwaighte in the squad as Brisbane look to get their season going. Article Source: IANS
Botham Calls Englands Outing In Ashes Opener horrendous'
PA News Agency: England legend Ian Botham criticised Bazball, suggesting that Ben Stokes and his team should consider returning home if they refuse to adapt after their embarrassing defeat in Perth. England was thoroughly outplayed by Travis Head's brilliance, allowing Australia to finish the match in just two days and secure an eight-wicket victory. England's Bazball approach faced further criticism, with figures like Michael Vaughan and R Ashwin calling it reckless after the defeat. The latest to condemn Bazball is Botham, describing it as horrendous and warning that England must quickly adapt and energise away from Bazball. It (Perth) was horrendous, there's no other word for it. England needs to fire up and fire up quickly. I'm fed up of hearing, 'this is the way we play'. If I hear it once more, I think I'll throw something at the television. If that's the way you play, you might as well go home now because it's going to be 5-0. They probably won't like me saying that but they need to need to get their heads around it. I want more pride when I see people pulling that sweater on, Botham told PA News Agency. The Ashes opener in Perth became a remarkable two-day drubbing as Australia defeated England by eight wickets. England, having won the toss and chosen to bat, scored only 172 in the first innings before the hosts were bowled out for 132. The chaotic first day saw a record 19 wickets fall, the most ever on Day 1 of an Ashes Test, with bowlers, especially Mitchell Starc, dominating and leaving England in a vulnerable state. They probably won't like me saying that but they need to need to get their heads around it. I want more pride when I see people pulling that sweater on, Botham told PA News Agency. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With support from Marnus Labuschagne (51*) and the winning runs from Steve Smith, Australia wrapped up the chase in just 28.2 overs, leaving England shell-shocked, while Australia surged to a 10 lead in the five-match series. Article Source: IANS
NZ Pacer Ben Sears To Play Club Cricket In Melbourne
Melbourne University Cricket Club: New Zealand fast bowler Ben Sears is set for a short playing spell in Victoria Premier Cricket as he works his way back from a hamstring injury. Sears will feature in six matches for Melbourne University Cricket Club - five T20s and one 50-over game - aiming to be ready for Wellingtons Super Smash campaign beginning in late December. If he returns to full fitness, he is expected to be in contention for New Zealands T20 World Cup squad in February. The 27-year-old has been out of action since the T20I series against Australia in early October, following a recurrence of the hamstring issue that also kept him out of Februarys Champions Trophy. With New Zealand currently focused on Plunket Shield fixtures and offering minimal short-format opportunities, Melbourne was chosen as the ideal place for him to regain match practice. Ben has missed a large portion of cricket in two out of the last three summers, so it was important for him to get as much cricket as possible on grass wickets leading into his Super Smash return, New Zealand coach Rob Walter said. He's a big part of our future plans and with an important period of T20 cricket ahead of us, we want to ensure Ben has the safest and most appropriate return to play plan in place. He's been progressing well and we're looking forward to seeing how he gets on in Melbourne. Sears who has represented New Zealand in one Test, four ODIs, and 22 T20Is is among several Black Caps fast bowlers currently dealing with injuries. Will O'Rourke is still recovering from a back stress fracture, Lockie Ferguson has been out with a hamstring issue, and Adam Milne is managing an ankle injury. Kyle Jamieson is also being eased back carefully following his back problems. He's a big part of our future plans and with an important period of T20 cricket ahead of us, we want to ensure Ben has the safest and most appropriate return to play plan in place. He's been progressing well and we're looking forward to seeing how he gets on in Melbourne. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Sears will play his first match for University, a T20 against Kingston-Hawthorn, on Sunday. Article Source: IANS
ICC Rates Perth Pitch 'very Good' After Rapid Ashes Opener
The International Cricket Council: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has rated the playing surface for the first Ashes Test in Perth as 'very good' after the series opener was wrapped up within two days. The entire Test match lasted just 847 deliveries, making it the shortest Ashes Test by balls bowled since 1888. Match referee Ranjan Madugalle rated the Perth wicket 'very good', which, under the ICC's four-tier rating system, is the highest ranking possible awarded to pitches with good carry, limited seam movement, and consistent bounce early in the match, allowing for a balanced contest between batters and bowlers. The opening Test saw 19 wickets fall on Day 1 as England were bowled out for 172 with Mitchell Starc taking career-best figures of 7-58 before Australia's batters collapsed to 121/9 at stumps. Day 2 saw 13 wickets fall and 380 runs put on the board as England were bowled out for 164 before Travis Head's incredible 123 guided Australia to an eight-wicket win and 1-0 lead in the five-match series. Cricket Australia, chief of cricket, James Allsopp, said, The match referee's 'very good' rating justifies our belief Perth Stadium produced a pitch that provided a fair balance between bat and ball. The dominance of some brilliant pace bowling from both sides and the frenetic nature of the contest meant the match lasted only two days. Day 2 saw 13 wickets fall and 380 runs put on the board as England were bowled out for 164 before Travis Head's incredible 123 guided Australia to an eight-wicket win and 1-0 lead in the five-match series. Also Read: Live Cricket Score As always, we want to ensure pitches across Australia have their own characteristics and we're looking forward to another enthralling contest under lights at the Gabba starting next Thursday, he added. Article Source: IANS
Jonassen Pulls Out Of WPL Auction Due To Injury, Other Left-arm Spinners In Sharp Focus
Mannat Kashyap Shuchi Upadhayay: Hours ahead of the 2026 Womens Premier League (WPL) mega auction, Australias left-arm spin bowling all-rounder Jess Jonassen has been ruled out from the player pool owing to an injury. Sources familiar with the matter told IANS on Thursday that Jesss unavailability was formally communicated to all five franchises during the mandatory pre-auction briefing on Wednesday. Jess had been a part of Delhi Capitals (DC) in the first three WPL seasons, where they finished as runners-up on all occasions. Though Jess is turning out for Brisbane Heat in the ongoing Womens Big Bash League (WBBL), it is understood that a shoulder issue she has been managing for an extended period is the reason behind her unavailability for the WPL auction and subsequent season. A few teams were keen on getting her in the auction due to Sophie Molineux not registering, but now that strategy has been changed and back up plans being discussed due to her unavailability being told a day prior. It wont come as a surprise if the other left-arm spinners, especially in the Indian players pool, will have more takers for them or their eventual price sees an increase in the mega auction, said sources. Other prominent left-arm spin bowling options who are also handy all-rounders are Englands Sophie Ecclestone, South Africas Chloe Tryon, as well as Indias N Sree Charani, Radha Yadav, Tanuja Kanwer, and are followed by youngsters like Parunika Sisodia, Bharti Rawal, Vaishavi Sharma, Ayushee Shukla, Mannat Kashyap Shuchi Upadhayay and Triveni Vasistha. It is also understood that in the pre-auction briefing, all five franchises were told that India opener Pratika Rawal, wicketkeeper-batter Yastika Bhatia and uncapped seamer VJ Joshitha are nursing injuries, though their names remain in the auction pool. Pratika is recovering from an ankle injury sustained in the World Cup league game against Bangladesh in Navi Mumbai, while Yastika had to undergo an ACL surgery after being ruled out of the World Cup due to injuring her left knee in the pre-tournament camp in Visakhapatnam. It is also understood that the injured trio cannot be counted towards the mandatory 15-member squad (though 18 is the maximum squad strength for the competition), and if they are picked, teams cannot get a replacement for them. Pratika is recovering from an ankle injury sustained in the World Cup league game against Bangladesh in Navi Mumbai, while Yastika had to undergo an ACL surgery after being ruled out of the World Cup due to injuring her left knee in the pre-tournament camp in Visakhapatnam. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The 2026 WPL mega auction will begin with the marquee set featuring eight players Sophie, India duo of Deepti Sharma and Renuka Singh Thakur, followed by Australian pair of Alyssa Healy and Meg Lanning, South Africas Laura Wolvaardt and New Zealand duo of Sophie Devine and Amelia Kerr. Article Source: IANS
Sears set for club cricket stint in Melbourne
The fast bowler has been sidelined by a hamstring injury since early October
Jess Jonassen pulls out of WPL auction
The Australia allrounder is recovering from a shoulder complaint she has been managing for some time
Plans being developed for NZ20 league in January 2027
Don MacKinnon, who heads the NZ20 Establishment Committee, believes the game needs to look beyond the Super Smash
Bangladesh vs Ireland, 1st T20I - Who will win today BAN vs IRE match?
BAN vs IRE , 1st T20I , Cricket Tips :The T20 World Cup 2026 is just a few months away, and the preparations for the mega event are at their fullest. Bangladesh and Ireland will also be taking on each other in three T20s. Bangladesh whitewashed Ireland 2-0 in the test series last week. The first T20I will be held at Bir Sreshtho Flight Lieutenant Matiur Rahman Stadium, Chattogram, starting at 5:30 PM IST on November 27. Bangladesh have dropped Shamim Hossain. Bangladesh lost the previous T20I series against West Indies and will look to undo all the mistakes here. Ireland are a tough T20I side, and it will be a close contest. BAN vs IRE: Match Details Date : November 27, 2025 (Thursday) Time : 5:30 PM IST Venue : Bir Sreshtho Flight Lieutenant Matiur Rahman Stadium, Chattogram BAN vs IRE: Live Streaming Details Indian fans can watch the live action of the BAN vs IRE game on the FanCode mobile app or website with a nominal fee. BAN vs IRE: Head-to-Head in T20Is Total Matches : 08 Bangladesh : 05 Ireland : 02 Drawn : 01 BAN vs IRE: Ground Pitch Report The surface in Chattogram is another typical Bangladeshi wicket, which is expected to break down and produce uneven bounce. The ball will skid early on, and batting will be difficult here. However, whoever bats first can score runs when the wicket is firm. BAN vs IRE: Possible XIs Bangladesh : Tanzid Hasan, Pravez Emon, Litton Das (c & wk), Towhid Hridoy, Mahedi Hasan, Jaker Ali, Saif Hassan, Shoriful Islam, Rishad Hossain, Mustafizur Rahman, Taskin Hasan Ireland : Paul Stirling (c), Jordan Neil, Harry Tector (wk), Curtis Campher, Ben Calitz, Gerath Delany, George Dockrell, Matthew Humphreys, Mark Adair, Josh Little, Barry McCarthy BAN vs IRE: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Litton Das is the in-form batter for Bangladesh. He scored runs for the hosts in the test series as well. For Ireland, the form of captain Paul Stirling is important at the top. Probable Best Bowler Rishad Hossain has troubled the opposition in recent times. He bowls a good line and can turn the ball both ways. For Ireland, Matthew Humphreys was the pick of the bowlers in these conditions in Tests. Today Match Prediction : It is difficult for teams to beat Bangladesh in Bangladesh. Hence, we predict the hosts to win the first T20I. BAN vs IRE Match 1st T20I, Today Match BAN vs IRE, BAN vs IRE Prediction, BAN vs IRE Predicted XIs, Injury Update of the match between Bangladesh vs Ireland Also Read: Live Cricket Score Disclaimer : The prediction or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.
Pakistan vs Sri Lanka, 6th T20I- Who will win today PAK vs SL match?
PAK vs SL , 6th T20I , Cricket Tips :Pathum Nissanka played a match-winning knock against Zimbabwe and scored an unbeaten 98 off 58 balls to take Sri Lanka to victory. Though he missed a well-deserved century, he certainly gave hope to his team to play in the tri-series final. Sri Lanka will now face Pakistan at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. This match will begin at 6:30 PM IST on Thursday, and it is a chance for Sri Lanka to make it to the final. With three out of three wins, Pakistan are already through. This is a dead rubber game for them. But they will look to keep the winning momentum up. PAK vs SL: Match Details Date : November 27, 2025 (Thursday) Time : 6:30 PM IST Venue : Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium PAK vs SL: Live Streaming Details To watch the live action of the PAK vs SL game, Indian fans can switch to the Sports TV YouTube channel on Thursday. PAK vs SL: Head-to-Head Total Matches : 25 Pakistan : 15 Sri Lanka : 10 No - result / Tied : 00 PAK vs SL: Ground Pitch Report Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium offers a balanced wicket. Batters who can stay patient and have a good game against spin can run here. Fast bowlers will get swing for the first few overs, and then spinners will dominate the game. PAK vs SL: Possible XIs Pakistan : Salman Agha (c), Sahibzada Farhan, Babar Azam, Saim Ayub, Usman Khan (wk), Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Md. Wasim Jr, Mohammad Nawaz, Naseem Shah, Usman Tariq Zimbabwe : Kusal Mendis (wk), Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Dasun Shanaka (c), Kusal Perera, Pavan Rathnayake, Janith Liyanage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Eshan Malinga PAK vs SL: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter It will be a competition between Sahibzada Farhan and Pathum Nissanka. Both are in good form and are key batters for their side. Probable Best Bowler Usman Tariq is a mystery bowler who recorded a hat trick against Zimbabwe. For Sri Lanka, Wanindu Hasaranga has troubled these Pakistani batters in recent matches. Today Match Prediction : Sri Lanka are not looking comfortable against Pakistan and are losing consistently. Hence, we predict Pakistan to win this game. PAK vs SL Match 6th T20I, Today Match PAK vs SL, PAK vs SL Prediction, PAK vs SL Predicted XIs, Injury Update of the match between Pakistan vs Sri Lanka Also Read: Live Cricket Score Disclaimer : The prediction or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.
Still Stranded After 4 Hours Mohammed Siraj Accuses Air India Express Of Leaving Passengers In Limbo
Air India Express Flight IX: India national cricket team fast-bowler Mohammad Siraj has publicly vented his anger after a frustrating experience with Air India Express. In a message on social media, Siraj said that his flight Air India Express Flight IX 2884 from Guwahati to Hyderabad was scheduled to depart at 7:25 pm but never took off on time. According to Siraj, despite repeated follow-ups, the airline offered no proper explanation and left passengers stranded for four hours. Flight delayed by 4 hours and still no update has left us stranded. Worst airline experience, Siraj wrote, warning fellow travellers against boarding the flight unless the airline cant take a stand. Siraj is returning home to Hyderabad after the Indian team suffered an embarrassing 408-run defeat to South Africa and lost the two-match series 0-2, their second successive home series clean sweep after losing 3-0 to New Zealand last year. Off-spinner Simon Harmer picked up 6-37 as India, chasing a massive target of 549, slumped to 140 all out on the fifth and final day of the match despite veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja waging a lone battle, top-scoring 54, the only saving grace for the Indian batting line-up that has surrendered completely against sustained bowling. South Africa also handed India their heaviest Test defeat by runs and set a new record for their biggest winning margin over India in Tests. Right from the time South Africa won the toss, everything went their way. India lost the first Test by 30 runs at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. India are now left to ponder over multiple questions as their fortress-like reputation when playing Tests at home suffered another big blow after their 3-0 loss to New Zealand last year. South Africa also handed India their heaviest Test defeat by runs and set a new record for their biggest winning margin over India in Tests. Right from the time South Africa won the toss, everything went their way. India lost the first Test by 30 runs at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India will play South Africa in a three-match ODI series from November 30. Article Source: IANS
Opposition Rahul Gandhi: Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, hosted the Indian blind womens cricket team, winners of the inaugural T20 World Cup, at 10 Janpath, New Delhi, on Wednesday. The Indian team made history by winning the first-ever Blind Women's T20 World Cup in Sri Lanka, beating Nepal by seven wickets in the final. Today, had the honour of hosting the Indian Blind Womens Cricket Team, the proud winners of the inaugural T20 World Cup, in New Delhi. Their historic victory is a powerful message of courage and possibilities. Their grit, discipline, and extraordinary spirit are an inspiration for the entire nation. India is proud of these champions, posted Rahul Gandhi on Facebook. The teams success marked a perfect campaign, with India remaining unbeaten throughout the tournament, demonstrating complete dominance. Opting to field first after winning the toss, India restricted Nepal to 114 for 5 in 20 overs. The chase was nothing short of clinical as India surpassed the target in just 12.1 overs with 47 balls to spare. Khula Sharir emerged as the stand-out performer, scoring an unbeaten 44 off 27 balls, including four boundaries, to guide India home comfortably. In the semifinal, India secured a commanding nine-wicket victory over Australia, while Nepal advanced to the final by narrowly defeating Pakistan in the other last-four encounter. Opting to field first after winning the toss, India restricted Nepal to 114 for 5 in 20 overs. The chase was nothing short of clinical as India surpassed the target in just 12.1 overs with 47 balls to spare. Khula Sharir emerged as the stand-out performer, scoring an unbeaten 44 off 27 balls, including four boundaries, to guide India home comfortably. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Indias emphatic title run not only highlights their consistency but also marks a major milestone for blind cricket, paving the way for increased recognition and growth of the sport in the coming years. Article Source: IANS
Sai Sudharsan Added To TN Squad For Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: India batter Sai Sudharsan was added to the senior squad of Tamil Nadu by the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) on Wednesday for the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) in Ahmedabad, giving the team a much-needed boost following a slow start to the season. After scoring 15 and 14 in a difficult debut series that ended in a 408-run thrashing, the 24-year-old, who played in India's most recent Test loss in Guwahati that sealed a 0-2 series loss to South Africa, returns to domestic T20 action. Only Yashpal Sharma's 13 off 157 against Australia in 1981 is slower than Sudharsan's lengthy innings of 14 off 139 balls against South Africa in the current second Test at Guwahati, which is India's second-slowest Test knock involving at least 100 balls. Sudharsan's inclusion is anticipated to bolster an inexperienced batting unit looking for early momentum after Tamil Nadu lost to Rajasthan by six wickets on Wednesday to start their Group D campaign. Ahmedabad is familiar to the left-hander because it is the city where he established his T20 reputation with the Gujarat Titans, for whom he was a standout opener. With 759 runs from 15 games at a strike rate of 156.17, Sudharsan had a breakout IPL 2025 season and won the Orange Cap. Tamil Nadu will be hoping he can carry this form into their SMAT campaign. India's national T20 championship will have six emerging sides, Mizoram, Nagaland, Meghalaya, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh and Manipur, aiming for the plate division honours alongside the opportunity to be promoted to the elite category. The Syed Mushtaq Ali trophy's plate leg runs simultaneously with the 32-team competition in the elite bracket. Mizoram will be taking on Nagaland in the opening game of the plate division in Pune. Ahmedabad is familiar to the left-hander because it is the city where he established his T20 reputation with the Gujarat Titans, for whom he was a standout opener. With 759 runs from 15 games at a strike rate of 156.17, Sudharsan had a breakout IPL 2025 season and won the Orange Cap. Tamil Nadu will be hoping he can carry this form into their SMAT campaign. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Varun Chakravarthy (capt), Narayan Jagadeesan (vice-capt, wk), Tushar Raheja (wk), VP Amit Sathvik, M. Shahrukh Khan, Andre Siddarth, Pradosh Ranjan Paul, Shivam Singh, R Sai Kishore, M Siddharth, T Natarajan, Gurjapneet Singh, A Esakkimuthu, R Sonu Yadav, R Silambarasan, S Rithik Easwaran (wk), Sai Sudharsan Article Source: IANS
Delighted That India Won Bid To Host Centenary Commonwealth Games 2030: PM Narendra Modi
Union Home Minister Amit Shah: Prime Minister Narendra Modi sent his congratulations to the people of India after the nation was officially awarded the 2030 Commonwealth Games, with Amdavad (Ahmedabad) declared as the host city. This landmark declaration was made during the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) General Assembly in Glasgow on Wednesday. has placed India firmly on the global sporting map. With the ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, we are eager to celebrate these historic games with great enthusiasm. We look forward to welcoming the world! posted Narendra Modi on X. The Amdavad 2030 organisers will work with Commonwealth Sport and international federations to finalise a programme of 1517 sports aligned with the recent Sport Programme Review, with additional disciplines such as cricket T20, shooting, hockey, wrestling, judo, rugby sevens, and 3x3 basketball under consideration, besides the option for two new sports proposed by the host. Union Home Minister Amit Shah credited PM Narendra Modi for the achievement of turning Bharat into a global sports hotspot. Congratulations to every citizen as India wins the prestigious bid to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad. This is a testament to PM Shri @narendramodi Jis vision for turning our Bharat into a global sports hotspot. Through penance spanning over a decade, Modi Ji has developed world-class sports infrastructure and uplifted our nations potential through effective governance and seamless teamwork, Amit Shah posted on X. Union Home Minister Amit Shah credited PM Narendra Modi for the achievement of turning Bharat into a global sports hotspot. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Ahmedabad is the second Indian city and the third in Asia to host the Commonwealth Games. The next edition of the Games will be held in Glasgow, Scotland, in 2026. The previous edition was held in Birmingham in 2022. Article Source: IANS
Commonwealth Sport President Donald Rukare: India has been officially awarded the 2030 Commonwealth Games, with Amdavad (Ahmedabad) declared as the host city. This landmark declaration was made during the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) General Assembly in Glasgow, Scotland, on Wednesday. Ashwini Kumar, Principal Secretary for Ports and Transport in Gujarat, said Indias preparations for the 2030 Commonwealth Games were meticulous, confident and driven by a solid team. Moments after delegates from 74 Commonwealth nations and territories approved Indias bid in Glasgow, Kumar said the state expected to complete all major preparations by the end of 2028 or early 2029, emphasising that facilities would be ready well in advance, aided by the staging of the World Police and Fire Games in October 2029. We are very confident, and we have done a good homework as a team. This team is led by the Deputy Chief Minister, who is a young and dynamic person We have the support of our Honourable Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi, our Union Sports Minister, Union Home Minister, and our Chief Minister, so this time there is a solid team behind the project, he said, stressing that funding and budgets had been very, very meticulously worked out. Kumar added that India was committed to delivering a Games that would be remembered for years to come, and one that would be sustainable financially and otherwise, befitting the events centenary and capable of being carried into the next 100 years. His assurances came on a day that marked a historic milestone for the Commonwealth Sport Movement, as Indiathe worlds most populous nationwas chosen to host the landmark 2030 Games, with Ahmedabad, Gujarat, as the main venue. The announcement triggered spontaneous celebrations: 20 Garba dancers and 30 Indian dhol drummers performed inside the General Assembly Hall, offering a vibrant glimpse into the cultural richness that awaits athletes and fans in 2030. Commonwealth Sport President Donald Rukare lauded Indias moment, saying, It will be a historic moment for India hosting the Commonwealth Games in 2030, and we truly believe that this event will be historic for the country. I have all my faith and trust in the administration guided by the Prime Minister himself, and I wish all my brothers and sisters from the country for this historic event. The Amdavad 2030 organisers will work with Commonwealth Sport and international federations to finalise a programme of 1517 sports aligned with the recent Sport Programme Review, with additional disciplines such as cricket T20, shooting, hockey, wrestling, judo, rugby sevens, and 3x3 basketball under consideration, besides the option for two new sports proposed by the host. Commonwealth Sport President Donald Rukare lauded Indias moment, saying, It will be a historic moment for India hosting the Commonwealth Games in 2030, and we truly believe that this event will be historic for the country. I have all my faith and trust in the administration guided by the Prime Minister himself, and I wish all my brothers and sisters from the country for this historic event. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India had won a total of 101 medals, including 38 gold medals in the 2010 CWG in New Delhi, with 30 medals coming from Shooting alone. In the 2022 edition, India bagged 61 medals, including 22 gold. Shooting was not included in the Birmingham edition. Article Source: IANS
Ahmedabad Named Host Of Centenary Commonwealth Games 2030
Commonwealth Sport General Assembly: Ahmedabad, India, has officially been confirmed as the host city for the Centenary Commonwealth Games in 2030, marking a historic milestone for the Commonwealth Sport Movement. This will be the second time that India will host the Commonwealth Games after New Delhi in 2010. The decision confirms that the worlds most populous nation will host the landmark edition of the Games after delegates from 74 Commonwealth member nations and territories approved Indias bid at the Commonwealth Sport General Assembly in Glasgow on Wednesday. India put forward a strong vision for the 2030 Games, with Ahmedabad, Gujarat, as the main host city. This plan builds on the groundwork laid by Glasgow 2026 and allows India to celebrate its centenary in a memorable way. Moments after Amdavad was chosen to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games, 20 Garba dancers and 30 Indian dhol drummers spontaneously performed in the General Assembly Hall. Their vibrant cultural display surprised delegates and offered a glimpse of the heritage and pride that athletes and fans can anticipate from a Games held in Gujarat, India. Garba is Gujarats traditional folk dance. The performance included members of Glasgows Indian community and individuals from other parts of the Commonwealth. It showcased both diversity and unity as part of the Movement, marking the journey from the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games to its Centenary edition. The inaugural Commonwealth Games took place in 1930 in Hamilton, Canada. At the latest Games in Birmingham, England, in 2022, Australia led the medal tally. The top five nations also included England, Canada, India, and New Zealand. Donald Rukare, President of Commonwealth Sport, said, This is the start of a new golden era for Commonwealth Sport. After a 'Games reset', we head to Glasgow 2026 in fantastic shape to welcome the 74 teams of the Commonwealth before setting our sights on Amdavad 2030 for a special Centenary edition of the Commonwealth Games. India brings scale, youth, ambition, rich culture, enormous sporting passion, and relevance, and I'm delighted to report strong interest from a range of nations to host the 2034 Games and beyond. We start our next century for the Commonwealth Games in good health. PT Usha, President of the Commonwealth Games Association of India, said, We are deeply honoured by the trust shown by Commonwealth Sport. The 2030 Games will not only celebrate a hundred years of the Commonwealth Movement but also lay the foundation for the next century. It will bring together Athletes, communities, and cultures from across the Commonwealth in a spirit of friendship and progress. Aside from confirming the hosts for 2030, Commonwealth Sport also announced that 15 to 17 sports will be included at Amdavad 2030. The Amdavad 2030 team will collaborate with Commonwealth Sport and the International Federation community to develop a vibrant and engaging sports programme that resonates locally while appealing globally. This will follow Commonwealth Sports recent Sport Programme Review, which outlines the sports included in the Commonwealth Games: Athletics and Para Athletics, Swimming and Para Swimming, Table Tennis and Para Table Tennis, Bowls and Para Bowls, Weightlifting and Para Powerlifting, Artistic Gymnastics, Netball, and Boxing. The process to finalise the remaining sports in the programme will begin next month, with the complete line-up for the Centenary Games being announced next year. The sports being considered include:Archery, Badminton, 3x3 Basketball and 3x3 Wheelchair Basketball, Beach Volleyball,CricketT20,Cycling, Diving,Hockey,Judo, Rhythmic Gymnastics,RugbySevens,Shooting, Squash, Triathlon, Para Triathlon, and Wrestling. The host may also suggest up to two new or existing sports. Duncan Scott, multiple Commonwealth champion swimmer, said, The Commonwealth Games are a special part of my career. Taking part in the home Games is incredible, so Im excited for Indian Athletes wholl get to do that in 2030. And for everyone else, weve got an opportunity to expand our horizons and experience the ambition and colour of Amdavad and India. I loved the chance to compete in the Gold Coast in Australia as part of a travelling Team Scotland. The sports being considered include:Archery, Badminton, 3x3 Basketball and 3x3 Wheelchair Basketball, Beach Volleyball,CricketT20,Cycling, Diving,Hockey,Judo, Rhythmic Gymnastics,RugbySevens,Shooting, Squash, Triathlon, Para Triathlon, and Wrestling. The host may also suggest up to two new or existing sports. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Jaismine Lamboria, World Champion Boxer from India, said, It truly is a proud moment to see India become the host of the Centenary Commonwealth Games. Amdavad will give Athletes and fans a very warm and vibrant welcome, and having the opportunity to compete on home soil in 2030 will be a huge motivation for me and for many others. Im excited for the next decade for Indian sport. Article Source: IANS
Tharanga Weighs On Sri Lanka Captaincy Change Ahead Of 2026 T20 World Cup
T20 World Cup: Just two months before co-hosting the ICC Men's T20 World Cup, Sri Lanka may undergo a dramatic captaincy change. Chief selector Upul Tharanga has confirmed that the panel is actively looking at alternatives to captain Charith Asalanka, who is currently under pressure. Tharanga highlighted that o decision had been taken, despite Asalanka's underwhelming performance and his early withdrawal from the ongoing tri-series in Pakistan, which has sparked rumours regarding his future. We have to weigh our best options after this series, Tharanga told ESPNcricinfo when asked if Sri Lanka were contemplating a switch in leadership. With a World Cup so close we can't make a lot of big changes. The selectors, after talking to the coach, will have to make a decision on what's best for the team. Tharanga stated that Asalanka's return from Pakistan last week was not the beginning of discussions about a new captain. He disclosed that the selection of Dasun Shanaka, the former white-ball captain of Sri Lanka, as the tour's vice captain was intentional. That was to give us another option. Rumours that Asalanka's mid-series flight back to Colombo was disciplinary spread quickly, especially in light of reports that some players felt uneasy staying in Pakistan after a suicide bombing in Islamabad. However, Tharanga rejected these theories, maintaining that it was only a medical problem. Still Charith is our captain, he said. Its because of an illness to Charith that we appointed Dasun as our stand-in captain. Charith is still the captain in our plans. We haven't made a decision to change that. We've planned all along for Charith to captain this World Cup. We'll see what happens. We haven't made a decision about that yet. Explaining the situation further, Tharanga stressed that Asalankas condition made it impossible for the team to keep waiting for a recovery. He had a viral fever, and he had body aches, he told ESPNcricinfo. The physio told us that it's hard for him to predict when Charith would get better, and that's why we had to make that decision. He also pointed to the teams broader issues in the middle order. We've also had a problem in the middle order, and we've not been consistent there. If he couldnt play, we needed to have someone else there. Thats why we brought Charith to Sri Lanka. Explaining the situation further, Tharanga stressed that Asalankas condition made it impossible for the team to keep waiting for a recovery. He had a viral fever, and he had body aches, he told ESPNcricinfo. The physio told us that it's hard for him to predict when Charith would get better, and that's why we had to make that decision. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Charith is a very talented cricketer, with a lot of experience. I'm sure he'll be an important cricketer for Sri Lanka in the T20 World Cup, he said. We've seen what he can do in the middle order, where sometimes hes won games by himself. Hes in our World Cup plans. Article Source: IANS
Barsapara Cricket Stadium: Parth Jindal vented his frustration after Team India lost the two-match home Test series to South Africa on Wednesday at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati, calling it a complete thrashing and not remembering seeing the Test side being so weak at home. South Africa achieved a historic series sweep over India, their first in the nation in 25 years, as the hosts succumbed to another poor batting display on a worn fifth-day pitch in Guwahati. India were defeated by 408 runs, marking their heaviest loss by margin of runs at home, continuing a confusing decline that now includes five losses in their last seven home Tests after a 12-year unbeaten streak spanning 18 series. Not even close, what a complete thrashing at home! Dont remember seeing our test side being so weak at home!!! This is what happens when red ball specialists are not picked. This team is nowhere near reflective of the deep strength we possess in the red ball format. Time for India to move to a specialist red ball coach for Test cricket, Jindal, the founder and director of JSW Sports, which owns the Delhi Capitals franchise in IPL and WPL, said in a post on X. India head coach Gautam Gambhir defended the team managements decisions following the recent series loss, emphasising that all choices were made with the teams best interests in mind and that hindsight has no place in sport. He accepted collective responsibility for the defeat, stressing that accountability lies within the dressing room. Not even close, what a complete thrashing at home! Dont remember seeing our test side being so weak at home!!! This is what happens when red ball specialists are not picked. This team is nowhere near reflective of the deep strength we possess in the red ball format. Time for India to move to a specialist red ball coach for Test cricket, Jindal, the founder and director of JSW Sports, which owns the Delhi Capitals franchise in IPL and WPL, said in a post on X. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Gambhir also highlighted that the loss to South Africa should not be compared with Indias 3-0 defeat to New Zealand the previous year, since that team had experienced senior players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravichandran Ashwin, all of whom have now quit the red-ball format. He noted that the current group is much younger and requires more exposure against strong opposition to develop. Article Source: IANS
Anjum Chopra Feels Sophie Ecclestone 'won't Come Cheap' At WPL Mega Auction
Anjum Chopra: Former India captain Anjum Chopra opined that England cricketer Sophie Ecclestone will earn big bucks at the inaugural Womens Premier League (WPL) 2026 mega auction here on Thursday. The auction is set to feature 277 players, including 194 Indian and 83 international stars, promising an electrifying battle for talent across franchises. As anticipation builds, Anjum, alongside former India player Veda Krishnamurthy, highlighted that Englands Ecclestone and Australias Alyssa Healy are likely to dominate the auction spotlight. Speaking on JioHostar, Chopra emphasised Ecclestones value as a left-arm spinner capable of turning games, saying, Sophie Ecclestone is a true match-winner and will undoubtedly command a strong price at the auction. Given the budgets teams currently have, she wont come cheap. Most teams are likely to consider her as a key acquisition. Her left-arm spin and control make her a valuable asset. While Delhi and Mumbai Indians might not prioritise her, teams like the UP Warriorz will definitely look to use their right-to-match card on her. Even Delhi could consider bringing her on board as a strategic option. Adding to this, Veda highlighted Ecclestones consistency and all-around contributions as she stated, Ecclestone has been extremely impressive, especially in the World Cup, where she showcased why she is the top-ranked T20 bowler. In the shorter format, she brings a crucial X-factor, consistently delivering her full quota of four overs with an excellent economy rate. Additionally, she can contribute valuable runs with the bat, making her a genuine match-winner. Much like Deepti Sharma, Sophie will be a highly sought-after player by all teams in the auction. Adding to this, Veda highlighted Ecclestones consistency and all-around contributions as she stated, Ecclestone has been extremely impressive, especially in the World Cup, where she showcased why she is the top-ranked T20 bowler. In the shorter format, she brings a crucial X-factor, consistently delivering her full quota of four overs with an excellent economy rate. Also Read: Live Cricket Score However, Veda also raised concerns about Healys fitness following her recent injury, saying, There is some uncertainty around Alyssa Healys fitness, as we observed during the recent World Cup that she wasnt at full strength in the later stages. She was in the process of making a comeback from injury, which raises questions about her readiness. Article Source: IANS
'I Am The Same Guy Who Got Results...': Gambhir Says His Future Is For BCCI To Decide
Barsapara Cricket Stadium: Under immense pressure after suffering a 2-0 series defeat to South Africa, India head coach Gautam Gambhir said his future rests with the BCCI while pointing to the success the Indian team achieved during his tenure so far. At the Barsapara Cricket Stadium on Wednesday, India were bowled out for just 140 in pursuit of an improbable 549 and suffered a 408-run hammering to suffer their second home series loss after a 3-0 defeat to New Zealand last year. Gambhir's coaching is under the scanner regarding the Test team's recent poor performances, despite significant success in limited-overs formats. Under Gambhir's reign, India has played six Test series so far, winning only two, while one ended in a draw. It is up to BCCI to decide. I have said it during my first press conference when I took over as the head coach: Indian cricket is important, I am not important, and I sit here and say exactly the same thing. Yes, people can keep forgetting about it. I am the same guy who got results in England as well with a young team, and I am sure you guys will forget very soon because a lot of people keep talking about New Zealand. I am the same guy under whom we won the Champions Trophy and the Asia Cup as well. Yes, this is a team which has less experience and I have said it before as well that they need to keep learning and they are putting everything possible to turn the tide, said Gambhir in the post-match press conference. Under Gambhirs tenure, India have now lost 10 of their 18 Tests, with the 408-run loss in Guwahati being their heaviest defeat in Tests by runs. Gambhir has faced mounting criticism in recent months for his frequent chopping and changing of the playing eleven and his preference for all-rounders over specialist batters and bowlers in the longer format. It lies with everyone in the dressing room and starts with me, to everyone in the dressing room. I have said it before as well that we win together, we lose together. So I am not going to be someone who is going to say that it lies with X, Y or Z. It lies with everyone sitting in that room, as simple as it can get. That is what team sport is all about. Again, the buck should be stopping with everyone, as simple because yes, we need to apply better. At one stage, we were 95/1. I am sure you guys must be watching the game. From 95/1 to 120/7 is not acceptable and we keep talking about obviously spin, but then one seamer got four wickets in that spell and we have had these collapses in the past as well. Someone needs to put their hand up and say that I am going to stop this, whatever you call it, the collapse. For me, I think that is something that was that 30-minute spell that obviously took us away from the game as well because at one stage on day three, we were pretty much in control of the game where we were 95/1. Then from there to lose five or six wickets for nothing on the board literally was always pushing us back, he added. Gautam further rejected any similarities between the series defeats to South Africa and New Zealand at home, adding that the batters need time to settle into playing Test cricket. First of all, in the series against New Zealand, we had a very different side and this is a very different one. When you see this batting line-up against that batting line-up, the experience between the two is chalk and cheese. Someone needs to put their hand up and say that I am going to stop this, whatever you call it, the collapse. For me, I think that is something that was that 30-minute spell that obviously took us away from the game as well because at one stage on day three, we were pretty much in control of the game where we were 95/1. Then from there to lose five or six wickets for nothing on the board literally was always pushing us back, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score So for me, I think that is something they will keep learning. Hopefully, they keep learning as that is important. Because I know that I hate using this word transition and this is exactly what transition is. When you have got a batting line-up which has literally played less than 15-20 Test matches, they need time to absorb pressure and have to keep getting better against quality attacks and against quality sides, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
Itll Be An Epic Contest Across All Formats Against India: Beth Mooney
While Beth Mooney: While Beth Mooney is focused on the ongoing Womens Big Bash League, her mind is already racing ahead to Marchs big stage when Australia play a day-night Test against India. With just 100 days to go, the Australian batter is thinking beyond the present and eyeing opportunities for fresh faces to break into the national side. The pink-ball clash at the WACA Ground, set for March 6-9, will wrap up a high-stakes multi-format series featuring three T20Is and three ODIs. Emotions are bound to run high after Indias stunning semi-final win over Australia at the recent edition of the ODI World Cup, where Harmanpreet Kaurs side claimed their first ICC crown. I think the scary thing about India now is they've been a little bit settled for a while with their selection calls and things like that. It looks like they've got a pretty good style of play in all formats of the game, Mooney was quoted as saying by cricket.com.au. It'll be an epic contest across all formats, ending in a Test match at the WACA, which is really exciting. (The World Cup) didn't pan out how we wanted them to in that semi-final, but at the same time, we're still playing a great brand of cricket in the 50-over format, and have found our way again in the T20 format as well, so I think it'll be a really exciting series across the board, and hopefully we get plenty of fans out to see us, she added. For Australia, the series comes at a pivotal moment. The T20Is will be their first matches in nearly a year, offering a vital chance to test combinations ahead of the T20 World Cup in England in June 2026. The ODIs mark the start of a new four-year cycle in the 50-over game, a period expected to see significant squad changes. And then theres the Test. Scarce and unshackled by a championship ladder, womens Tests provide selectors with rare freedom to experiment. It could be the perfect platform to blood the next generation and build momentum for the future. For Australia, the series comes at a pivotal moment. The T20Is will be their first matches in nearly a year, offering a vital chance to test combinations ahead of the T20 World Cup in England in June 2026. The ODIs mark the start of a new four-year cycle in the 50-over game, a period expected to see significant squad changes. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Indias multi-format tour of Australia begins on February 15 at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). Article Source: IANS
'Every Match Reflected Their Hunger For Glory', Says India Coach Tejeswini Of Womens Kabaddi WC Win
Kabaddi World Cup: The Indian womens kabaddi team, on Wednesday, returned to the country with much fanfare after beating Chinese Taipei in the Womens Kabaddi World Cup in Dhaka, Bangladesh. The side secured a 3528 win in the final, in what was their second straight World Cup title, further showcasing their strength in the sport. Speaking on the victory, head coach V. Tejeswini Bai shared words of praise for his team. What this team achieved in Dhaka has filled my heart with pride. The girls played with incredible heart, discipline, and determination every single match was a reflection of their hunger to bring glory to India. I was the head coach when we won the Asian Games in 2023, and the Asian Kabaddi Championship in 2025, so this is a hat-trick of wins for me. Winning a World Cup medal for the country is always special, but watching these young women rise to the moment makes it even more meaningful. As a coach, I couldnt be prouder of them, she added. Skipper Ritu Negi spoke about how important this victory was for the future of womens kabaddi in India, Lifting the World Cup for India is a feeling beyond words. As captain, I know Im only as strong as the team behind me, and this group of girls stood together through every challenge. Womens kabaddi has grown so much the competition is tougher than ever but we believed in each other till the final whistle. Chinese Taipei pushed us hard, but our unity and trust made the difference. This victory belongs to every girl who dreams of representing India one day, she added. Sanju Devi, who finished as the Player of the Tournament, lauded the teams collective effort for the win. Being named Player of the Tournament is an honour I will cherish forever, but this moment belongs to my entire team. Every raid, every tackle, every point it came from our collective fight. Womens kabaddi has grown so much the competition is tougher than ever but we believed in each other till the final whistle. Chinese Taipei pushed us hard, but our unity and trust made the difference. This victory belongs to every girl who dreams of representing India one day, she added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India dominated the tournament from start to finish, winning all their group-stage matches before defeating Iran 3321 in the semi-final to book their place in the title clash. Chinese Taipei also enjoyed an unbeaten run in their group and overcame hosts Bangladesh 2518 in the other semi-final. Article Source: IANS
A Defeat Too Loud To Ignore: Indian Test Cricket Faces Its Moment Of Reckoning
Coach Gautam Gambhir: By the end of a bruising Test series, it wasnt just the scoreboard that told the story; it was the silence of disbelief echoing across Indian cricket. Time is the only healer may sound comforting, but for the current Indian Test side, time feels more like a ticking clock. A back-to-back series loss, capped by a humiliating defeat at home, has left nowhere to hide. The wounds are fresh, the questions louder, and the scrutiny unforgiving. South Africa's 20 sweep was not just historic; it was ruthless. The visitors etched their names into the record books with a 408-run demolition in the second Test, Indias heaviest defeat in the format. It marked only the Proteas second-ever Test series win on Indian soil, and their first since 2000, making the result all the more damning for the hosts. The Guwahati decider became a showcase of South African dominance. What began as a cautious innings turned monumental through Senuran Muthusamys resolute 109 and Marco Jansen's commanding 93, pushing the total to a formidable 489. Jansen then switched roles seamlessly, tearing through Indias batting with a fiery 6-48 as the home side crumbled to 201. Refusing to loosen their grip, South Africa extended the advantage. Tristan Stubbs assured 94 powered them to 260/5 declared, setting an impossible target. Simon Harmer, already a hero from Kolkata, delivered the final blow with a magical 6/37, dismantling Indias resistance on the last day. Indias fight was sporadic at best. Sai Sudarshan showed promise, and Ravindra Jadejas gritty 54 offered brief hope, but the collapse that followed spoke volumes of a side struggling for identity and direction. Beyond the boundary, the fallout is intensifying. Critics, former cricketers, and fans alike are questioning selections, strategies, and leadership. Coach Gautam Gambhir now finds himself under the microscope, with BCCI officials expected to seek clear answers from both him and the team management. The defeat also stings in the larger picture. Indias WTC 2025-27 campaign has taken a severe hit, slipping to fifth in the standings with a PCT of 48.15, overtaken even by arch-rivals Pakistan. South Africa, meanwhile, surge with confidence, boasting 36 points and a commanding 75 per cent PCT as they tighten their grip near the summit. Beyond the boundary, the fallout is intensifying. Critics, former cricketers, and fans alike are questioning selections, strategies, and leadership. Coach Gautam Gambhir now finds himself under the microscope, with BCCI officials expected to seek clear answers from both him and the team management. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Indian cricket is at a crossroads, and every decision from here on could define its future. Article Source: IANS
SSC ground in Sri Lanka to get floodlights for men's T20 World Cup
That will open up fresh possibilities for Sri Lankan cricket with day-night Tests becoming more viable in the country
India's WTC final prospects take a hit after 2-0 loss to South Africa
They are down at No. 5 in the World Test Championship table and have plenty to do the the second half of their cycle
'Guys want to be the men for the team': Bavuma hails incredible SA achievement
Rohit Sharma Back As No. 1 ODI Batter, Starc Attains Career-high In Test Rankings
T20I Player Rankings: Rohit Sharma regained the top rank among ODI batters, while Zimbabwe's Sikandar Raza achieved the No.1 spot in the T20I all-rounders rankings for the first time in his career, reflecting his recent strong form in the latest ICC Men's T20I Player Rankings. Raza has been in excellent form for his team in the ongoing tri-series with Sri Lanka and hosts Pakistan. His latest performance was against Sri Lanka on Tuesday, where he scored a rapid 37 runs and bowled four economical overs in a nine-wicket defeat. Raza's performance was sufficient for him to surpass Pakistan's Saim Ayub in the T20I all-rounders rankings, with the 39-year-old reaching the top spot for the first time in his 13-year international career. Raza has remained in the top 10 rankings since the 2022 ICC Men's T20 World Cup, with his recent performances highlighting his consistent form in the shortest format of the game. He was recently ranked No.1 as the ODI all-rounder in September and is now second in the same category for the longer white-ball format. Ayub drops to second in T20I all-rounders rankings, while Mohammad Nawaz moves up to seventh after strong performances in the tri-series. Pakistan players continue to improve, with Sahibzada Farhan climbing eight spots to rank fourth among T20I batters, and former captain Babar Azam rising five spots to reach 29th after scoring a recent half-century. All three formats see reshuffles in the top 10 this week, including a notable change at the ODI summit, where India veteran Rohit Sharma retakes the top spot back from New Zealands Daryl Mitchell. Mitchell had to sit out the final two matches of the Black Caps' ODI series sweep over the West Indies at home, resulting in the right-hander losing valuable rating points and falling below Rohit at the top of the ODI batter rankings. The Kiwis saw some positive movements as Rachin Ravindra advanced one spot to 12th and Devon Conway climbed 11 places to 31st. Meanwhile, West Indies captain Shai Hope improved two positions to eighth after scoring an unbeaten century in the second match of the series against New Zealand. The Black Caps see their rankings improve in the ODI bowlers list, with Mitchell Santner (up one place to sixth) and Matt Henry (up one spot to joint 10th) benefiting most from their 3-0 series sweep. The latest Test rankings also show several Australian players advancing after their impressive win against England in Perth, while stars from Bangladesh are making similar progress following their victory over Ireland at home. Australia's Travis Head delivered a match-winning innings in Perth's fourth innings, helping his team secure victory. His performance earned him a four-place rise to sixth in the latest Test batter rankings. England's left-hander Ollie Pope moved up four spots to rank 24th, also making progress among Test batters. Meanwhile, Bangladesh's Mushfiqur Rahim rose seven places to 30th, Litton Das climbed eight spots to 37th, and Mominul Haque advanced eight places to tie at 46th. These updates follow their team's 217-run win over Ireland in Mirpur. Australia's Travis Head delivered a match-winning innings in Perth's fourth innings, helping his team secure victory. His performance earned him a four-place rise to sixth in the latest Test batter rankings. Also Read: Live Cricket Score There is also a change near the top of the list for Test all-rounders as Ben Stokes moves up one place to second behind India's Ravindra Jadeja, while Starc gains two spots to leap to fifth. Article Source: IANS
Defeat To SA, 3-0 Loss To NZ Reflect Broader Issues Beyond Just Outcomes, Says Kumble
Barsapara Cricket Stadium: Former India captain and coach Anil Kumble said the teams recent setbacks - a 2-0 series defeat to South Africa coming just a year after the 3-0 loss to New Zealand - point to deeper concerns within the Test team and that improvements are the need of the hour. At the Barsapara Cricket Stadium on Wednesday, India were bowled out for 140 and lost to South Africa by 408 runs their biggest Test defeat by runs. Its also Indias fifth loss in their last seven home Tests, as South Africa clinched a Test series win in India for just the second time after 2000. The results, especially todays defeat to South Africa and the 3-0 loss to New Zealand, reflect broader issues beyond just outcomes. India appeared well-positioned in parts, but ultimately faltered. Whats needed is a different mindset for Test cricket; constant changes to the playing XI, batting orders, and frequent rotations prevent stability. While injuries and form dips are understandable, India must take time to deeply reflect, said Kumble on JioStar. With Indias next assignment coming via a two-match trip to Sri Lanka next year, Kumble felt now is the time to review the defeats and set the roadmap for improving as a Test side. With the next Test only in August 2026, there is room for thoughtful discussion on the future direction of Indian Test cricket. The retirement of several key stalwarts in recent months has created a vacuum that requires clear vision and structured planning. The team needs a strong core of experienced players to support and nurture emerging talent. Introducing too many inexperienced players simultaneously without a solid foundation wont work. A robust line-up with mostly seasoned players, complemented by one or two newcomers, is essential for sustained success. Kumble, one of the greatest leg-spinners in the game, was also left disappointed by Indias repeated batting struggles against South Africa. It was also evident from the fact that barring Ravindra Jadejas 54, none of the batters touched even the 20-run mark. Its very disappointing for India. Looking back at the four innings, the team could only bat a maximum of 83.5 overs, largely due to the resilient partnership between Kuldeep Yadav and Washington Sundar. Kumble, one of the greatest leg-spinners in the game, was also left disappointed by Indias repeated batting struggles against South Africa. It was also evident from the fact that barring Ravindra Jadejas 54, none of the batters touched even the 20-run mark. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Unfortunately, this pattern has repeated itself with different bowlers, teams, and slightly varying conditions. It was a tough surface with natural wear and tear to be negotiated, but India failed to cope with these challenges, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
Ashes: Finch Feels explosive Travis Head Will Have More Impact In Middle-order In Pink-ball Test
Around The Wicket: Former Australia captain Aaron Finch says Travis Head should play as a middle-order batter for the day-night Test at the Gabba, even after his explosive century as a stand-in opener in Perth. Heads success at the top has put pressure on Usman Khawaja, whose ongoing back spasms forced him out of his usual opening role in both innings of the first Test. His limited time on the field, caused by Englands rapid first-innings collapse, meant he couldnt resume his spot when Head was elevated. Finch argued that the pink ball changes the equation for Brisbane and makes Head more valuable at No. 5, where his counterattacking style can shape the match. If this wasn't a pink-ball test match coming up at the Gabba, I would tend to agree and say, you know what, maybe it is time to throw him [Head] up there and you just launch into it from day one of a Test, Finch told ESPN's Around The Wicket. But I just feel as though the fact that it is a pink-ball test, the impact that that brand new ball can have and the impact that Travis Head can have batting at No. 5 when the pink ball does go a bit soft and the game can sort of, the wicket can flatten out. I like him at five still, just to be that real explosive player through the middle order, he added. If this wasn't a pink-ball test match coming up at the Gabba, I would tend to agree and say, you know what, maybe it is time to throw him [Head] up there and you just launch into it from day one of a Test, Finch told ESPN's Around The Wicket. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brisbane, however, is familiar territory for him. Its his home Test and a venue where he has excelled under lights, topping the day-night first-class run charts at the Gabba with 502 runs at an average of 50.02. Article Source: IANS
2nd Test: To Beat A Very Good Indian Team Is A Hell Of An Effort, Says Harmer
Barsapara Cricket Stadium: South Africa off-spinner Simon Harmer hailed the teams emphatic 2-0 series sweep over India, calling it as a hell of an effort. On day fives play at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Harmer picked a match-winning six-for to ensure South Africa thrashed India by 408 runs. Harmer also took the Player of the Series award for picking 17 wickets at an average of 8.94 and a strike rate of 28, as South Africa got a Test series win in India after 25 years. Like I said in the last Test, it's been a long road. 10 years later, completely different feeling. Will leave with a lot more fonder memories from then. To beat a very good Indian team is a hell of an effort, said Harmer at the conclusion of the game. Asked about his six-fer in Guwahati, Harmer said, I was just watching our second innings, after 40 overs, the ball got softer and it became easier. But there was the odd-ball, the ball that Rishabh got. Its nice to contribute, to get wickets and to get a fifer in India. I think in the second innings we knew they would bat for their lives, they put hell of a fight. But we knew if we put it in the right areas, things would happen. He also lauded Aiden Markram and Marco Jansen for taking exceptional catches, as well as for skipper Temba Bavumas advice in changing his angles. Sharp catches from Markram in the slips and Jansen as well which helps. When I was bowling from that end, I felt it was a left-hander's wicket, Temba asked me to change, and it was a great decision from him, and I was happy to get the wickets. Harmer also applauded his bowling partner Keshav Maharaj for providing him ample support. Kesh's record speaks for itself, he deserves to be the number one spinner and I'm happy to play the supporting role. When given a chance, I'm happy to play the supporting role. I didn't bat well, Jasprit had my number. Another county stint with Essex, few games with the Titans that's what is next. Jansen, who had memorable all-round contributions in the match, emphasised on the collective effort behind South Africas success. Obviously, if you win any Test match, it's a nice feeling. Winning a Test match and a Test series in India is also very special. Very well done to all the guys. Everyone put their hands up in critical situations. Just everyone put their hands up when we needed them and proper team performance. We just spoke about doing the simple things very well and then just assessing the wicket and trying to figure out our plans. If we needed to change things, we needed to change things. If not, then stick to what works. He also credited head coach Shukri Conrad for improving his batting. I just give all the credit to Shukes. Shukes basically just told me to go out and play my game. Just be free, free up a little bit. The first Test, I was a bit tense - so I just went out there and tried to express myself. We just spoke about doing the simple things very well and then just assessing the wicket and trying to figure out our plans. If we needed to change things, we needed to change things. If not, then stick to what works. Also Read: Live Cricket Score So, we're always trying to improve. We always see where we can get better and all those fancy stuff. But, at the end of the day, when we're on the field, we just play for each other and we just give our best. Article Source: IANS
SMAT: Urvil Patels Historic Ton Powers Gujarat To 8-wicket Win Over Services
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: Gujarat opener Urvil Patel produced one of the most commanding T20 innings of the season, hammering an unbeaten 119 off just 37 deliveries to script an eight-wicket demolition of Services in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy here at the Gymkhana Ground here on Wednesday. Walking out with clear intent, the Gujarat captain unleashed a breathtaking assault that left Services bowlers with no answers. Patel reached his century in 31 balls, a landmark that places him among the fastest centurions in the tournaments history. His innings was laced with 12 boundaries and 10 sixes, as he single-handedly shifted the matchs momentum within the first half of the chase. Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: Gujarat opener Urvil Patel produced one of the most commanding T20 innings of the season, hammering an unbeaten 119 off just 37 deliveries to script an eight-wicket demolition of Services in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy here at the Gymkhana Ground here on Wednesday. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Earlier, Services had managed to post 183, a competitive score built around Gaurav Kochars patient fifty. While their middle order added handy runs, the total ultimately proved insufficient in the face of Patels onslaught. Article Source: IANS
India Slip To Fifth In WTC Standings After Series Loss Against South Africa
ICC World Test Championship: India suffered a big plunge in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 202527 standings following a 2-0 series loss against South Africa at home after losing the second Test by 408-run here at Barsapara Cricket Stadium on Wednesday. South Africa wrapped up a memorable Test tour of India with a commanding victory in the second Test, sealing a 20 sweep and securing only their second-ever Test series triumph on Indian soil, the first since the landmark win in 2000. The margin of defeat was sobering for the hosts. Indias 408-run loss stands as the heaviest in their Test history, a result that also dents their early campaign in the WTC 202527 cycle. The WTC standings also take a sharp turn as the emphatic win tightens South Africas grip near the top of the points table. With 36 points from four matches, the reigning champions climbed to a 75 points percentage, strengthening their hold on second place behind Australia. India, in contrast, slipped to fifth position, overtaken by Pakistan, and their PCT dropped to 48.15. The series decider in Guwahati began uncertainly for South Africa, but Senuran Muthusamys gritty century (109) and Marco Jansens near-ton (93) transformed their first innings into an imposing 489. Jansen then carried his momentum into the bowling attack, ripping through India for figures of 6/48 as the hosts mustered only 201. Choosing rest over enforcement of the follow-on, South Africa batted again and pushed the lead beyond reach, and Tristan Stubbs composed 94 headlined their 260/5 before the declaration. Off-spinner Simon Harmer, already the star of the previous Test in Kolkata, delivered another masterclass. After taking 3/64 earlier in the match, he dismantled India on the final day to complete with a 6/37. Choosing rest over enforcement of the follow-on, South Africa batted again and pushed the lead beyond reach, and Tristan Stubbs composed 94 headlined their 260/5 before the declaration. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Aiden Markram added further gloss to South Africas performance with two outstanding catches, underscoring a disciplined fielding effort from the touring side. Article Source: IANS
We Did Not Capitalise As A Team, Which Cost Us The Series: Pant
Rishabh Pant: India stand-in captain Rishabh Pant admitted his side had been thoroughly outplayed by South Africa after crashing to a 408-run loss and a 2-0 series loss, saying the side did not capitalise as a team, which cost us the series. On day five, led by Simon Harmers 6-37, South Africa bowled out India for 140 and hand the hosts their biggest ever defeat in runs in Tests. This is South Africas second Test series win in India after their 2-0 sweep in February-March 2000 under Hansie Cronje. It's little disappointing. As a team we need to get batter. Credit to the opposition for playing better than us. They dominated the series but at the time you can't take cricket for granted. We're playing at home and sometimes we were up in the game but we didn't capitalise on them, Pant said to broadcasters at the end of the game. The wicketkeeper-batter also acknowledged that India had failed to seize key moments across the two Tests. The series defeat is also India's second home series loss in 12 months after losing 3-0 to New Zealand in 2024. It's little disappointing. As a team we need to get batter. Credit to the opposition for playing better than us. They dominated the series but at the time you can't take cricket for granted. We're playing at home and sometimes we were up in the game but we didn't capitalise on them, Pant said to broadcasters at the end of the game. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The defeat leaves India with various questions in terms of their make-up of the Test team and their approach towards playing red-ball cricket ahead of their next assignment, which is a two-match away tour of Sri Lanka set to happen next year. Article Source: IANS
'Can't take anything for granted' - Pant rues missed chances after 2-0 clean sweep
India suffered a 408-run defeat, their biggest ever in Test cricket, in Guwahati
Barsapara Cricket Stadium: Former cricketer Venkatesh Prasad did not hold back his criticism after India suffered a crushing 408-run defeat in the second Test against South Africa here at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium on Wednesday. Calling it a disappointing display of tactics and skills, he expressed deep concern as India endured their biggest-ever loss at home. The last time India lost two Test series at home across two consecutive years was over four decades ago; against the West Indies (1983) and England (1984/85). Really disappointed by how India is going about Test cricket. The all-rounder obsession is absolute brain-fade especially when you dont bowl them. Rank Poor tactics, poor skills, poor body language and an unprecedented 2-0 series whitewash at home. Hope this does not get washed off with Test matches 9 months away and this negative approach changes, Prasad shared on X. Prasad stressed that while IPL performances can influence limited-overs selections, Test cricket requires consistent output in tournaments like the Ranji Trophy and Duleep Trophy. He added that relying on players with sub-40 First-Class averages or picking all-rounders merely because they offer additional batting depth goes against the fundamental principles of Test cricket. Need to play specialists and players need to be picked on the basis of Ranji, Duleep Trophy in domestic cricket. Can pick in 50 overs based on IPL performance, but for Test cricket, Ranji and Duleep trophy have to be the barometer. Yash Rathod, Shubham Sharma, Baba Indrajith , Smaran Ravichandran are names most wouldnt have heard off as they dont play IPL but consistently scoring runs in domestic cricket. Cant play sub 40 FC avg players in the Test team based on IPL performances. Playing all rounder in Indian conditions because he can bat is not the correct approach in Test cricket. Test Cricket needs specialists. We all love Indian cricket and its sad to see whats happening over the last year and a half just to somehow prove this flawed strategy right. Cant function on such egos in the interest of Indian cricket , Truly disappointing, he added. Former all-rounder Irfan Pathan said, Disappointing display of patience & technique from Indian batters. Need to get players in the test team who can play spin better. After skipper Temba Bavumas defiant 55 not out and Simon Harmers eight-wicket match haul helped the reigning world Test champions South Africa clinch their first Test win in India since 2010, the visitors sealed their historic series victory by securing a massive win in the second Test. Well done South Africa on playing outstanding cricket vs India in India. Outplayed our team in every department, Pathan said in another post. This is also South Africa's second-largest victory by margin of runs after 492 against Australia in Johannesburg, 2018, and it also set a new record for the biggest winning margin over India in Test cricket. Moreover, this is the Proteas' second Test series win in India after their 2-0 sweep in February-March 2000 under Hansie Cronje. Former off-spin great Ravichandran Ashwin was full of praise for the Proteas for their remarkable series win. Huge huge achievement for the proteas, they have put their stamp of authority and showed why they are the deserved holders of the WTC title. With a win in Guwahati, Bavuma is unbeaten in 12 Tests with 11 victories and one draw as skipper. Former off-spin great Ravichandran Ashwin was full of praise for the Proteas for their remarkable series win. Huge huge achievement for the proteas, they have put their stamp of authority and showed why they are the deserved holders of the WTC title. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Former batting stalwart AB de Villiers said, Incredible performance by every member of the team. Well done @ProteasMenCSA. Historic moment! Article Source: IANS
Harmer's six-for hands India their biggest Test defeat and seals South Africa's 2-0 sweep
His efforts handed India their biggest defeat in men's Tests, and their second whitewash at home in three series
2nd Test: South Africa Hand India Biggest Defeat To Clinch Historic Series Win (ld)
Barsapara Cricket Stadium: Off-spinner Simon Harmer picked an exceptional 6-37 as South Africa completed a commanding 408-run victory over India at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium to secure an emphatic 2-0 series sweep on Wednesday. Chasing 549, India were bundled out for 140 on day fives play while veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja top-scored with 54. South Africa also handed the hosts their heaviest defeat in Tests by runs, and the reigning World Test Championship winners bagged their first Test series win in India since 2000. South Africa also set a new record, registering their biggest win, by margin of runs, over India in Tests. Moreover, this is the second Test series win for the Proteas in India and first in 25 year. It was the Hansie Cronje-led side who did it first in 2000. Now Temba Bavuma joined him and kept his unbeaten Test record intact as skipper. Right from the time South Africa won the toss, everything went their way, with India now left to ponder over the questions as their fortress-like reputation when playing Tests at home suffers another significant blow after their 3-0 loss to New Zealand last year. India are now left to ponder multiple questions, as their fortress-like reputation when playing Tests at home suffered another big blow after their 3-0 loss to New Zealand last year. Resuming from 27/2, B Sai Sudharsan was dismissed by Marco Jansen but narrowly escaped when replays showed the fast bowler had overstepped, while Kuldeep Yadav received a reprieve when Aiden Markram dropped his catch at first slip. Kuldeeps nightwatchman duty ended at five when Harmers straighter delivery went through the gate to rattle the middle-stump. Three balls later, Harmer took another wicket as Dhruv Jurel looked to defend but got an outside edge and was caught by slip for two. Rishabh Pant briefly lifted the hosts with his counterattack punching Keshav Maharaj for four before dancing down the pitch to launch him for a towering six. But in a bid to defend a slower delivery from Harmer, Pant fell for 13 when extra bounce on the delivery took the shoulder edge of the bat and lobbed to slip. Harmer could have taken his fourth wicket if Markram hadnt dropped a difficult catch of Sudharsan, who became the third Indian batter to face over a hundred balls in this series, as South Africa took three wickets in the morning session. Post tea, South Africa struck early in the fifth ball of the afternoon session as B Sai Sudharsan, who battled through the morning with a defensive approach, pressed forward once more to smother the spin from Senuran Muthusamy, but failed to cover the line and edged to slip, where Markram took his eighth catch of the match. Jadeja tried delaying the inevitable by thumping and pulling off spinners for boundaries. He got his fifty in style by flicking Keshav Maharaj over deep mid-wicket for six. But South Africa continued to chip away when Washington Sundar poked at a quicker delivery, and the outside edge was taken sharply by Markram at slip, who got a record ninth catch and gave Harmer a well-deserved five-wicket haul. Harmer claimed his sixth wicket when Nitish Kumar Reddys attempted reverse sweep took the glove edge and gave the wicketkeeper a simple catch. South Africa moved to the brink of victory when Jadeja danced down the pitch against Keshav Maharaj, but was beaten in the air, and wicketkeeper Kyle Verreynne completed a swift stumping. Jadeja tried delaying the inevitable by thumping and pulling off spinners for boundaries. He got his fifty in style by flicking Keshav Maharaj over deep mid-wicket for six. But South Africa continued to chip away when Washington Sundar poked at a quicker delivery, and the outside edge was taken sharply by Markram at slip, who got a record ninth catch and gave Harmer a well-deserved five-wicket haul. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: South Africa 489 and 260/5d in 78.3 overs (Tristan Stubbs 94; Ravindra Jadeja 4/62) beat India 201 and 140 in 63.5 overs (Ravindra Jadeja 54, Washington Sundar 16; Simon Harmer 6-37, Keshav Maharaj 2-37) by 408 runs Article Source: IANS
South Africa Whitewashes India 2-0 in Historic Test Series Win in Guwahati
Spinner Simon Harmer took six wickets as South Africa romped to victory by 408 runs in the second Test for their first series win in India in 25 years on Wednesday. World Test champions South Africa bowled out a dismal India for 140 in a mammoth chase of 549 on day five in Guwahati for a 2-0 Test sweep. It is India's biggest defeat at home by runs and a fifth loss in seven home Tests, having been whitewashed 3-0 by New Zealand last year. Off-spinner Harmer, 36, returned figures of 6-37 as South Africa clinched a Test series in India for only the second time, the first in 2000 under Hansie Cronje. Ravindra Jadeja resisted with 54 before Keshav Maharaj had him stumped and the spinner soon got the final wicket of Mohammed Siraj, with Marco Jansen pulling off a stunning catch in the deep. India lost the opening Test in Kolkata inside three on a pitch with uneven bounce before South Africa once again beat the hosts in their own game of spin on a batting-friendly track. .embed-container { position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; overflow: hidden; max-width: 100%; } .embed-container iframe, .embed-container object, .embed-container embed { position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; } The visitors declared their second innings on 260-5 on day four to hand India a record chase but the hosts batting once again failed and they never threatened to get close. India rode their luck early in the day when Jansen had Sai Sudharsan caught behind but the delivery was declared a no-ball after the bowler overstepped. The batter was on four. In the next over another overnight batter Kuldeep Yadav survived a reprieve on four when Aiden Markram dropped him at first slip off Harmer. But the relief was short-lived for India as a relentless Harmer soon bowled Kuldeep for five for the first wicket of the day. The off-spinner then dismissed Dhruv Jurel, for two, three balls later and soon sent back skipper Rishabh Pant for 13 as India slumped to 58-5. The batters fell like nine pins on a pitch where South Africa posted 489 after they elected to bat. India were bundled out for 201 to concede a first-innings lead of 288 but South Africa did not enforce the follow-on and decided to bat again. Left-arm quick Jansen returned figures of 6-48 in India's first innings after the bowler hit a quickfire 93 with the bat. Also Read: Live Cricket Score South African all-rounder Senuran Muthusamy led the batting charge with his 109, his maiden Test century.
2nd Test: Harmer's 6-37 Helps SA Crush India By 408-run To Seal Series Whitewash
Barsapara Cricket Stadium: Off-spinner Simon Harmer picked an exceptional 6-37 as South Africa completed a commanding 408-run victory over India at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium to secure an emphatic 2-0 series sweep on Wednesday. Chasing 549, India were bundled out for 140 on day fives play, and veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja top-scored with 54. South Africa also handed the hosts their heaviest defeat in Tests by runs. South Africa, the reigning World Test Championship winner, have got their first Test series win in India since 2000. South Africa also set a new record for their biggest winning margin over India in Tests. Right from the time South Africa won the toss, everything went their way, with India now left to ponder over the questions as their fortress-like reputation when playing Tests at home suffers another big blow after their 3-0 loss to New Zealand last year. South Africa struck early in the fifth ball of the afternoon session as B Sai Sudharsan, who battled through the morning with a defensive approach, pressed forward once more to smother the spin from Senuran Muthusamy, but failed to cover the line and edged to slip, where Markram took his eighth catch of the match. Ravindra Jadeja tried delaying the inevitable by thumping and pulling off spinners for boundaries. He got his fifty in style by flicking Keshav Maharaj over deep mid-wicket for six. But South Africa continued to chip away when Washington Sundar poked at a quicker delivery and the outside edge was taken sharply by Markram at slip, who got a record ninth catch and gave Harmer a well-deserved five-wicket haul. Harmer claimed his sixth wicket when Nitish Kumar Reddys attempted reverse sweep took the glove edge and gave the wicketkeeper a simple catch. South Africa moved to the brink of victory when Jadeja danced down the pitch against Keshav Maharaj, but was beaten in the air, and wicketkeeper Kyle Verreynne completed a swift stumping. Ravindra Jadeja tried delaying the inevitable by thumping and pulling off spinners for boundaries. He got his fifty in style by flicking Keshav Maharaj over deep mid-wicket for six. But South Africa continued to chip away when Washington Sundar poked at a quicker delivery and the outside edge was taken sharply by Markram at slip, who got a record ninth catch and gave Harmer a well-deserved five-wicket haul. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: South Africa 489 and 260/5d in 78.3 overs (Tristan Stubbs 94; Ravindra Jadeja 4/62) beat India 201 and 140 in 63.5 overs (Ravindra Jadeja 54, Washington Sundar 16; Simon Harmer 6-37, Keshav Maharaj 2-37) by 408 runs Article Source: IANS
Ashes: Renshaw Labels Khawaja Among Australias Best Ahead Of Brisbane Test
Brisbane Test: Matt Renshaw has hailed Usman Khawaja as one of Australias greatest-ever batters, admitting that his Queensland teammate can keep him out of a Test recall. Khawaja, who battled back spasms in Perth, faces pressure to revive his career as he approaches his 39th birthday and endures a dip in form. However, Renshaw, coming off a match-winning Sheffield Shield century for Queensland against Victoria, insists Khawaja can still take on Englands aggressive pace attack in the Ashes. He's got an average over 40 in Test cricket, he's played 85 games, he's one of our best batters. He's one of the best cricketers that Australia's ever produced, Renshaw told reporters at the Australian PGA pro-am at Royal Queensland on Wednesday. Khawaja had initially been slated to represent Queensland at the pro-am, but lingering back troubles forced his withdrawal and opened the door for Renshaw to step in. The 38-year-old is now undergoing further assessment in Brisbane after experiencing an unusual bout of spasms that emerged only on day one of the match. The issue pushed Khawaja down to No.4 in the first innings, and he ultimately wasnt needed during Queenslands remarkable day-two run chase. Travis Heads blistering 123 while filling in as opener has renewed debate over whether the No.5 should shift up the order permanently. But if Australia opts to move on from Khawaja and return to a more traditional long-form opener, Renshaw appears ideally positioned. The left-hander last featured in a Test in February 2023 as a concussion substitute for David Warner during Australias dramatic collapse in Delhi. Renshaw's recent domestic form, however, has been compelling; a classy 112 under lights against Victoria at the Gabba this week added to a century and a 51 in his previous Sheffield Shield match. Travis Heads blistering 123 while filling in as opener has renewed debate over whether the No.5 should shift up the order permanently. But if Australia opts to move on from Khawaja and return to a more traditional long-form opener, Renshaw appears ideally positioned. The left-hander last featured in a Test in February 2023 as a concussion substitute for David Warner during Australias dramatic collapse in Delhi. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Speaking of his latest Shield century, Renshaw said, I'm happy the Queensland selectors probably saw that. Knowing that we won the game for Queensland was something that was pretty special. We had a lot of people missing, we had a few guys missing in that Test squad, so knowing that as a senior batter for Queensland standing up and doing my job and getting the win at midnight on day three was pretty nice. Article Source: IANS
Why Australia Displays Wickets Before Runs in Cricket Scores During the Ashes?
While watching the broadcast of the Ashes Tests from Australia did you notice that cricket scores are exhibited in a different way. For example, a score of 100 runs for the loss of 3 wickets is generally written as 100-3 in most of the cricket playing countries but in Australia it shall be shown as 3-100, i.e. the wickets displayed first, instead of the runs. Why do they do so or why are they following this tradition of writing scores in reverse order? The man responsible for this Australian tradition of writing scores in the other way is former Australian cricketer Ned Gregory. He was an excellent player but remained one Test wonder after having played in the first ever Test in Melbourne in March 1877. He scored 11 runs in two innings. The Gregorys are probably the most famous family in Australian cricket. This started with David William Gregory and his two brothers Edward James (Ned) and Charles Smith joined him. David was the captain of the Australia side that defeated J. Lillywhite's English team in the first Test match, played in March 1877. Ned was also on the side. Australia batted first. Ned was out without scoring and holds the record of the first ever batsman dismissed for a duck in Test cricket. Their two other brothers played for NSW, two of Neds sons played for NSW (one being the Test cricketer Syd Gregory) and his nephew Jack Gregory also represented Australia. Ned later on became a caretaker of the Military and Civil Ground and then moved to be the first curator of the Association Ground and Sydney Cricket Ground. At SCG, in 1896, he designed and constructed the first mechanically adjustable scoreboard on the Hill. While working on this new scoreboard, he expressed his dislike for the original English scoreboard design and was of the view that it was not providing ample inside the ground information to the spectators. He took the task of re-designing the huge scoreboard, giving a variety of the information on the match. It was so big that it was beyond one the capacity of one operator to make the changes. This redesigned scoreboard changed the way of showing the score i.e. the sequence of writing wickets and runs while exhibiting total match score. This was exactly opposite of the tradition being followed in England and later on adopted by other cricket playing countries. Since the new scoreboard was providing vital information, the changes Gregory made were accepted. Once this Sydney way of showing the score was accepted, other grounds around Australia also changed their scoreboards. The broadcasters and commentators also joined them and very soon this was accepted as the Australian way of showing the match score. The format has been the same since then. Gregory's Scoreboard at the SCG, was in use from 1896 until 1905. Another scoreboard was used from 1905 to 1924. The third scoreboard in the SCG's history was built in 1923 and was in use until 1983. During all these replacements of the scoreboard at the SCG, the same layout was retained i.e. wickets first, runs second. A single mans idea changed the tradition of showing the score. On the issue of famous scoreboards at the SCG, it may be added that the last manually operated scoreboard was in use until 1983. This scoreboard, designed by Robertson and Marks and built in 1923, stood for 60 years at the top of the Hill at the ground's eastern end. Thereafter it was replaced by an electronic scoreboard. The old scoreboard in the meantime had earned the status of an historic and heritage item. Thats why it was not dismantled but removed and kept behind the Doug Walters Stand until 2006, with just the top of it visible. The late cricketer and broadcaster Bill O'Reilly lamented its passing. How sad, he would say, that such a great structure which had borne the names of so many greats of the game, from Bradman to Benaud to Border, was now hidden behind the Doug Walters stand, ignored and forgotten. The SCG heritage office also admitted that the Robertson and Marks scoreboard is 'ultra significant' in the history of the ground. Even when it wasn't in use, it played a role. It has been a silent witness to many modern-day events here since 1983. Also Read: Live Cricket Score It was decided to dismantle it in 2006 under the supervision of the SCG Trust and moved to a warehouse in Surry Hills before being shifted again to Western Sydney. It was one of the most recognisable features of the ground.
Indias ODI World Cup Winners Poised To Have Big Payday In 2026 WPL Mega Auction
ODI World Cup: While the euphoria of Indias historic Womens ODI World Cup triumph in Navi Mumbai still energises fans, the aftermath has sparked a shimmering windfall. The championship-winning Indian team members are featured in high-profile endorsements for various products, invited to numerous universities for thought-provoking speeches, appear as special guests on talk shows, and are seen sporting radiant smiles on various posters. Hence, it wont come as a surprise if the 2026 Womens Premier League (WPL) mega auction, set to be held in New Delhi on Thursday, sees several World Cup-winning players earn a big payday. With several World Cup-winning players back in the pool, all five franchises will be devising strategies to secure these marquee players and then set the stage for them to command premium pay checks. Among the ten World Cup-winning members in the auction pool, Deepti Sharma (base price of Rs. 50 lakh) and Renuka Singh Thakur (base price of Rs. 40 lakh) are listed in the marquee set. Deepti, who was the Player of the Tournament in both the ODI World Cup and WPL 2025, will draw the attention of all teams. While her previous franchise, UP Warriorz (with the highest purse of Rs. 14.5 crore) still holds four Right-To-Match (RTM) options, Deeptis consistent match-winning performances will ensure that she wont be a cheap buy at the auction. Kranti Gaud, Deeptis teammate at UPW in WPL 2025 and a World Cup winner, will also attract interest from many teams, thanks to her rare skill set: being a capped India fast bowler. Left-arm spinner N Sree Charani, the second-highest wicket-taker for India in the World Cup win, will also attract massive bids after previously being a steal buy for Delhi Capitals, who enter the auction with the least purse (Rs. 5.7 crore). Other World Cup winners who will keep teams interested are Renuka Singh Thakur, Harleen Deol, Sneh Rana, Radha Yadav, Uma Chetry, Arundhati Reddy, and Pratika Rawal (assuming she has recovered sufficiently from the ankle injury that sidelined her from the World Cup knockouts). The auction will feature a total of 277 players going under the hammer to fill 73 slots including 23 reserved for overseas players. It is also understood that the five franchises are likely to spend more on batters, pacers, or overseas all-rounders to strengthen their batting and bowling options. The accelerated phase in the auction will begin after player number 68. Teams will be asked for their choice of players and names will be duly called out. In all, a lot of the players who got released will get picked, said a WPL insider to IANS. Apart from Deepti and Renuka, the marquee set features several high-profile names, including Meg Lanning, Alyssa Healy, Sophie Ecclestone, Laura Wolvaardt, Sophie Devine, and Amelia Kerr, ensuring intense bidding battles among teams for these proven match-winners. Outside the marquee set, players of significant interest include Nadine de Klerk, Pheobe Litchfield, Kiran Navgire, Alana King, Jess Jonassen, Georgia Voll, Danni Wyatt-Hodge, and Kashvee Gautam, who has just returned to action via the ongoing U23 T20 championship after a six-month layoff. The interest in players like Prathyusha Challuru and Anuja Patil, who have previously played for India and performed on the domestic circuit, will also be notable in franchise discussions. Regarding the teams' needs at the auction, two-time champions Mumbai Indians possess a well-rounded batting line-up led by captain Harmanpreet Kaur, complemented by proven all-rounders such as Hayley Matthews, Nat Sciver-Brunt, and Amanjot Kaur, along with uncapped wicketkeeper-batter G Kamalini. They could target an experienced keeper-batter behind the stumps to add depth. Although Yastika Bhatia has registered for the auction, it will be interesting to see if MI buy her back, considering she has had an ACL surgery. MI's priority will be strengthening the bowling attack with specialised options and securing key Indian spin bowlers. The 2024 champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, are expected to target a big-hitting opener to partner captain Smriti Mandhana at the top, while also prioritising the acquisition of an experienced seamer, including the possibility of bringing back Renuka, to strengthen their bowling unit. Among overseas options, Laura and Georgia are seen as strong candidates to support Smriti at the top. The franchise holds a Right-To-Match card for an uncapped player, which could be used to re-acquire leg-spin all-rounder Prema Rawat, who broke into the India A setup this year. Three-time runners-up Delhi Capitals are clearly aiming for a solid opener to partner Shafali Verma, while their retained players, Jemimah Rodrigues and Niki Prasad, along with pace-bowling all-rounders Annabel Sutherland and Marizanne Kapp, provide balance in the middle order. DC is expected to focus on strengthening its spin department and adding an experienced wicketkeeper. If DC doesnt buy back Meg, they could select either Alyssa or Laura, both of whom not only fill the opening slot but also stand out as strong captaincy contenders. Gujarat Giants, who reached the WPL playoffs for the first time this year, have three RTM cards available, though they can use them to buy back three Indian players after retaining the Australian duo of Ashleigh Gardner and Beth Mooney. In that case, Harleen, Kashvee, Priya Mishra, and Tanuja Kanwer emerge as likely options to buy back through RTM. At the mega auction, GG will also prioritise strengthening its lower order by purchasing experienced Indian batters and bolstering a bowling attack that was somewhat vulnerable last season. Meanwhile, UP Warriorz enter with a near blank slate and the largest purse, giving them considerable flexibility to rebuild after finishing at the bottom of the table last season. With batting inconsistencies and a misfiring bowling unit still fresh in memory, UPW may focus on acquiring experienced Indian players and securing overseas match-winners, while also seeking a new captain. In that case, Harleen, Kashvee, Priya Mishra, and Tanuja Kanwer emerge as likely options to buy back through RTM. At the mega auction, GG will also prioritise strengthening its lower order by purchasing experienced Indian batters and bolstering a bowling attack that was somewhat vulnerable last season. Also Read: Live Cricket Score As the focus is sharply on the mega auction floor and franchises arrive with their strategies to secure marquee names, the stage is set for newly crowned World Cup winners and other high-profile players to attract record bids. This highlights the leagues growing stature and the rising value of World Cup-winning players in the cricketing world. Article Source: IANS
Finch: Head at No. 5 best fit for pink-ball Test
Michael Clarke expects Usman Khawaja to be in the XI for Brisbane providing he is fit
2nd Test: Harmer Picks Three As SA Reduce India To 90/5 At Tea
Barsapara Cricket Stadium: South Africa strengthened their grip to win the second Test as off-spinner Simon Harmer struck thrice, leaving India reeling at 90/5 in 47 overs at tea on day fives play at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium on Wednesday. Chasing a historic 2-0 series sweep, South Africa took three wickets in the session and now sit just five away from victory with two sessions remaining. B Sai Sudharsan has faced 138 balls for 14 runs and has been engaging in a blockathon. Ravindra Jadeja (23 not out) has also contributed to a fightback against the Proteas, but Indias chances of survival remain slim in terms of saving the game. However, the session belonged to South Africa and Harmer, who delivered a masterclass in flight, guile, and subtle variations to become the leading wicket-taker in the series. In the morning, Sudharsan was dismissed by Marco Jansen but narrowly escaped when replays showed the fast bowler had overstepped, while Kuldeep Yadav had a reprieve when Aiden Markram dropped his catch at first slip. Kuldeeps nightwatchman duty ended at five when Harmers straighter delivery went through the gate to rattle the middle-stump. Three balls later, Harmer took another wicket when Dhruv Jurel looked to defend but got an outside edge and was caught by slip for two. Rishabh Pant briefly lifted the hosts with his counterattack hammering Keshav Maharaj for four, before dancing down the pitch to launch him for a towering six. But in an attempt to defend a slower delivery from Harmer, Pant was dismissed for 13 when extra bounce on the ball took the shoulder edge of the bat and lobbed to slip. Kuldeeps nightwatchman duty ended at five when Harmers straighter delivery went through the gate to rattle the middle-stump. Three balls later, Harmer took another wicket when Dhruv Jurel looked to defend but got an outside edge and was caught by slip for two. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: South Africa 489 and 260/5d in 78.3 overs (Tristan Stubbs 94; Ravindra Jadeja 4/62) lead India 201 and 90/5 in 47 overs (Ravindra Jadeja 23 not out, B Sai Sudharsan 14 not out; Simon Harmer 4-23, Marco Jansen 1-16) by 459 runs Article Source: IANS
India Going To Take Blueprint From Manchester Draw For Saving The Game, Says Ten Doeschate
South Africa: India will look to draw inspiration from their resilient draw against England at Manchester this year in their aim to save the ongoing second Test against South Africa, said assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate ahead of day fives play. In their chase of 549, India ended day fours play by losing openers KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal and are facing a mammoth task to avoid losing their second home Test series in two years. That's the blueprint for saving a game. There's going to be a lot of important factors today. I think the mentality is going to be top of that list. We've seen where the threat is from mainly in the first four days, obviously Jansen's bounce and the ball does spin. So the technical and tactical part of it's there, but I think mostly the mentality of the players today is going to be the most important aspect we bring, said ten Doeschate to broadcasters ahead of day fives play. Asked on the chatter in the team ahead of day fives play, ten Doeschate said, It's been brutal. South Africa have been very good and we're miles behind the game. But somehow we've managed to get an opportunity to save the game and the fifth day is going to be crucial in securing a draw. Quizzed on how India have been left behind in the game, ten Doeschate replied, I think a variety of factors. I think South Africa have played it perfectly getting to this position. Obviously the toss is important. They batted superbly well for two days. I thought we bowled well for two days, but couldn't bowl them out. Then unfortunately a below par batting performance in the first innings now means we have all the work to do on the fifth day. Quizzed on how India have been left behind in the game, ten Doeschate replied, I think a variety of factors. I think South Africa have played it perfectly getting to this position. Obviously the toss is important. They batted superbly well for two days. Also Read: Live Cricket Score So firstly, getting to that first hour is going to be super important. But I think it's going to be a challenge all day. Like I said, the boys are going to have to really apply themselves to save this game. Article Source: IANS
Virat Kohli was spotted at the Mumbai International Airport. He playfully engaged with the paps and also posed for photos with them. Virat, who has often refrained from interacting with the paparazzi around the world, stopped for a quick photo session at the Mumbai Airport after meeting fans and greeting the paps.
T20 Tri-series: Nissankas 98 Powers Sri Lanka To Crushing Win, Keeps Alive Hopes Of Reaching Final
Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium: Opener Pathum Nissanka roared back into form with a blistering 98 off 58 deliveries, powering Sri Lanka to a dominant nine-wicket win over Zimbabwe in a must-win clash of the T20I Tri-series at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi on Tuesday. Sri Lanka ended a five-match losing streak in Twenty20 Internationals and maintained their hopes of making it to the final by chasing 147 and winning in just 16.2 overs. They will now guarantee their place in the championship game if they defeat Pakistan on Thursday. Prior to Nissanka's attack, Zimbabwe were held to 146 for 5 by Sri Lanka's disciplined bowlers. Zimbabwe were never able to increase their scoring rate after Maheesh Theekshana and Wanindu Hasaranga finished with identical scores of 2 for 23. Zimbabwe crossed 140 thanks to Ryan Burl's late burst and starts from Brian Bennett and Sikandar Raza, but the total was insufficient against Sri Lanka's best batting performance of the tour. Pavan Rathnayake made his debut in the game as well, though he wasn't needed to bat. Nissanka had been looking for rhythm going into the match, having scored 29, 24, 24, 0, and 17 since his Asia Cup 107 against India. He had a powerful innings on a day when Sri Lanka needed their power hitter to step up. In the Power-play, Sri Lanka quickly reached 64 for 1, with Nissanka scoring 37 of those runs. Nissanka contributed 51 during the middle overs as Sri Lanka added another 73. In the final overs, it only took three ballsa wide, a four, and a massive sixto complete the chase. With sweeps off seamers, flat-batted drives over additional cover, straight slaps, and massive pulls across the square boundary, Nissanka's shot-making was commanding. Richard Ngarava took the brunt of it, giving up three sixes and four fours to the opener. Nissanka hit four sixes and eleven fours overall. Nissanka, who had been aiming for a four to give himself a chance at a second T20I hundred, grinned wryly at the final blow, a front-foot pull for six over backward square leg. With 11 wickets in 11 games at an economy of 7.78 in 2025his most costly year to dateTheekshana has had a difficult year in Twenty20 Internationals. Despite taking 24 wickets at a strike rate of 18.7 in 2024, he has been benched multiple times in 2025 due to his strike rate of 23.1. He made an immediate impact after being called up for this match and given the new ball. He bowled Dion Myers and Tadiwanashe Marumani in a brilliant three-over Power-play spell, ending the period on 2 for 23 as Zimbabwe reached 44 for 2 after six overs. On a good batting track, his final over, bowled at the beginning of the death phase, cost just four runsa remarkable performance. Zimbabwe's reliance on Sikandar Raza and Brian Bennett persisted; of the 581 runs they have scored in four games this series, 273a startling 46%have come from the two. With his 14 off 16, Brendan Taylor struggled for fluency, but Bennett made sure Zimbabwe maintained the run rate above seven. The innings was stabilised by their stand of 36 off 28. Raza then combined sharp strike rotation with boundaries to add another 36 off 30 with Bennett. Zimbabwe appeared to be headed for at least 160 while they were together. Zimbabwe's innings was in danger of drifting after Hasaranga dismissed both Bennett and Raza in a span of 13 deliveries. Just three and four runs were scored in two of the final four overs. However, Burl launched a counterattack, hitting 37 off his next 26 balls to salvage the innings after Raza was dismissed at 37 off 29. With his 14 off 16, Brendan Taylor struggled for fluency, but Bennett made sure Zimbabwe maintained the run rate above seven. The innings was stabilised by their stand of 36 off 28. Raza then combined sharp strike rotation with boundaries to add another 36 off 30 with Bennett. Zimbabwe appeared to be headed for at least 160 while they were together. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Zimbabwe 146/5 in 20 overs (Ryan Burl 37 not out, Sikandar Raza 37; Wanindu Hasaranga 2/23, Maheesh Theekshana 2/23) lost to Sri Lanka 148/1 in 16.2 overs (Pathum Nissanka 98 not out; Brad Evans 1-36) by nine wickets Article Source: IANS
ICC Chairman Jay Shah: As the full schedule for the 2026 edition was revealed at a glamorous ceremony in Mumbai, ICC Chairman Jay Shah stated on Tuesday that the return of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup to the subcontinent would spark unmatched passion throughout India and Sri Lanka Co-hosts On February 7, India will play the United States on a big night at the Wankhede Stadium to start their title defense. This will set up an exciting opening day that will also include former champions Pakistan and the West Indies in Kolkata and Colombo, respectively. It is wonderful to welcome the ICC Mens T20 World Cup back to the subcontinent so soon after a groundbreaking Womens Cricket World Cup. The passion for cricket in this region is unmatched, and fans have been waiting eagerly for another global spectacle, Shah said, while presenting the fixtures. The announcement of the fixtures brings us a step closer, and I have no doubt that the five venues in India and three in Sri Lanka will be alive with energy throughout the tournament. The T20 format continues to drive the sports global expansion and will be showcased at the LA Olympics in 2028. With that in mind, the 2026 edition will capture the imagination of millions. One can already picture the electric atmosphere at the Narendra Modi Stadium when the champions lift the trophy on 8 March. The worlds largest cricket venue the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad has been earmarked to host the final, while eight venues across the two host nations will stage matches: Wankhede Stadium (Mumbai), MA Chidambaram Stadium (Chennai), Arun Jaitley Stadium (New Delhi), Eden Gardens (Kolkata), the SSC and R. Pallekele (Kandy) and Premadasa Stadium (Colombo). Twenty teams will be split into four groups of five in the tournament, which will have the same structure as in 2024. Predetermined seedings will determine which two of each group advance to the Super Eights. Group A: India, USA, Namibia, Netherlands, Pakistan Group B: Australia, Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe, Ireland, Oman Group C: England, West Indies, Bangladesh, Italy, Nepal Group D: South Africa, New Zealand, Afghanistan, Canada, UAE All Group B matches featuring Sri Lanka will be hosted exclusively on Sri Lankan soil. Pakistan will also play all their group games in Sri Lanka. Venue swaps have been built into the knockout phase: if Pakistan make the semi-finals or final, Colombo will replace pre-assigned Indian venues. ICC CEO Sanjog Gupta, speaking at the launch, said the 2026 World Cup would usher in a new era of global, marquee cricketing events. The ICC Mens T20 World Cup is expected to usher in a new era of global, marquee Cricketing events, both in terms of the athletic spectacle and fan experiences on offer, Gupta said. We have seen six different champions in less than two decades of the tournaments history, which demonstrates the competitive nature of the competition. With 20 teams from 5 continents vying for the title in Crickets most unpredictable format and the tournament returning after a decade to its biggest market, this promises to be a feast for Cricket fans around the world. The ICC, along with its partners, are committed to delivering unmatched immersive experiences to widen and deepen fandom for the sport. Newly appointed ICC Brand Ambassador and Indias 2024 title-winning captain Rohit Sharma said being associated with the event again felt special. I have the good fortune of winning this tournament two times and can say from experience that each win in this tournament is a special one, Rohit said. I won the title in 2007 as a youngster and then lifted it as captain in 2024, but it is not just the final that I remember with as much fondness. Many other matches also stand out to me with equal fondness. Suryas brilliant catch that won us the match against South Africa in Barbados last time, Virats knock against Pakistan in Melbourne in 2022, and Yuvrajs six sixes against England in Durban in 2007 are some of the most exhilarating moments ever on a cricket field. I have the good fortune of winning this tournament two times and can say from experience that each win in this tournament is a special one, Rohit said. I won the title in 2007 as a youngster and then lifted it as captain in 2024, but it is not just the final that I remember with as much fondness. Many other matches also stand out to me with equal fondness. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India and Sri Lanka will host the T20 World Cup for the second time after staging the event in 2016 and 2012, respectively. India (2007, 2024) and England (2010, 2022) remain the only multiple-time champions, while Pakistan (2009), Sri Lanka (2014), and Australia (2021) complete the list of past winners. Article Source: IANS
Quetta Gladiators, Karachi Kings, Islamabad United renew PSL ownership deals
Owners of the three franchises confirm they will continue working with the PCB for next ten years
I Am Always Available For Advice, Rohit Sharma Tells Indian Team Ahead Of T20 World Cup 2026
ICC CEO Sanjog Gupta: He may have retired from the shortest format of international cricket, but the only player to figure in all nine editions of the T20 World Cup wants to contribute to the Indian team's preparations by imparting the wisdom he has gleaned in a career spanning 15 years. Rohit Sharma, who led India to their second T20 World Cup title in 2024 in the USA and Caribbean after first winning it as a player in 2007, on Tuesday said he will discuss things with some of the players from the T20 side when he meets them during the upcoming ODI series against South Africa. I keep meeting all these guys (India T20 players); I'm still playing. I'm going to go to Ranchi (for ODIs against South Africa) and meet some of these guys there who are going to be part of the T20 setup, Rohit said during a panel discussion also involving India T20 captain Suryakumar Yadav and Women's World Cup-winning skipper Harmanpreet Kaur with ICC CEO Sanjog Gupta at an event in Mumbai at which the sport's global governing body revealed the full schedule of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. Rohit said the players always discuss things between them and will try to get into the players' mindset during the conversations. There's always a conversation that happens between the players, and I am somebody who likes to talk, discuss and get into their mindset a little bit and understand what they are thinking, said the white-ball cricket legend, the only player to hit three double hundreds in ODI cricket. Rohit said he is always available to dispense advice whenever approached. There's always a conversation that happens between the players, and I am somebody who likes to talk, discuss and get into their mindset a little bit and understand what they are thinking, said the white-ball cricket legend, the only player to hit three double hundreds in ODI cricket. Also Read: Live Cricket Score But again, these guys are having a great run of late. I don't think there's much that needs to be changed. (But) The final prep will be just around when they play New Zealand. That's when they should try and get their playing XI or their (squad of) 15 in mind, he added. Article Source: IANS
Would Love To Win T20 World Cup By Beating Australia In Final In Ahmedabad: Suryakumar Yadav
T20 World Cup: Till a few years back, every Indian cricketer and fans would love to see the country win an ICC tournament by beating Pakistan in the final. The scenario has changed now and India T20 captain Suryakumar Yadav on Tuesday said in an ideal situation, he would love to lift aloft the Men's T20 World Cup 2026 by beating Australia in the summit clash. Asked by the host to pick a team that India would like, in a hypothetical situation, to overcome in the final to lift the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, Surya named Australia. If it is the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad and the final, I would like India to beat Australia and win the title, said Surya at the event got up by the ICC to unveil the full schedule of the upcoming T20 World Cup to be jointly-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. The burgeoning rivalry between India and Australia apart, the other reason that SKY wants India to meet Australia in the final of the T20 World Cup is that he wants to exact revenge for India's defeat to the Kangaroos in the final of the Men's ODI World Cup 2023 at the same venue. Harmanpreet Kaur, who recently spearheaded India to the Women's ODI World Cup title in the nearby Navi Mumbai also wanted India to beat Australia to lift the title. She said the recently developing rivalry between India and Australia makes it an exciting contest and winning against a strong team gives a different pleasure. Harmanpreet Kaur's Indian women's team had defeated Australia in the semifinal before going on to overcome South Africa in the final to win the Women's ODI World Cup last month. However, Rohit Sharma, who captained India in the 50-over World Cup final defeat to Australia in 2023 but went on to guide the team to triumph in the T20 World Cup in 2024, said he wants India to win the title, whichever the opposition. I agree with Surya when he says the rivalries have changed and also that beating Australia in the final would be ideal but my wish is for India to win the title, the opponent could be anyone, said Rohit Sharma, who was unveiled as the ICC Brand Ambassador for the event on Tuesday. However, Rohit Sharma, who captained India in the 50-over World Cup final defeat to Australia in 2023 but went on to guide the team to triumph in the T20 World Cup in 2024, said he wants India to win the title, whichever the opposition. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Harmanpreet Kaur talked about her experience of winning the title at home and hoped the men's team would also go on an do the same. She said her team benefitted a lot from the support of the fans when it had landed in a Cup 2025 after losing three matches in a row. The fans have always supported us at home and it was nice to see so many people coming out to watch the women's team play, she said. Article Source: IANS
World Cup-winning Blind Women Cricketers An Inspiration For Entire Nation: Sports Minister
Sports Dr Mansukh Mandaviya: The Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports Dr Mansukh Mandaviya felicitated the members of the Indian womens cricket team at his residence on Tuesday for their recent victory in the inaugural Blind Twenty20 World Cup. The Indian womens team defeated Nepal by seven wickets in the final played in Colombo, Sri Lanka, on Sunday and remained undefeated throughout the tournament. The tournament featured six teams - India, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Australia and the United States of America. The blind cricket teams victory came closely on the heels of the Indian women teams first-ever ICC Cricket World Cup victory on home soil. The Indian womens team defeated Nepal by seven wickets in the final played in Colombo, Sri Lanka, on Sunday and remained undefeated throughout the tournament. The tournament featured six teams - India, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Australia and the United States of America. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Acknowledging the sentiments, Deepika TC, captain of the Indian team said: I feel extremely happy and honoured for the fact that our Honble Sports Minister invited us at his residence for felicitating us. It was lovely interacting with him. His words will encourage not only us but more women from the blind community to take up sports as a career and make the country proud with their hard work and determination. Article Source: IANS
