IPL 2026: Arshdeep's Banter With Tilak Varma Borders On Racism, Claim Reports
Indian Premier League: Punjab Kings pacer Arshdeep Singh has found himself at the centre of controversy once again after a video featuring Mumbai Indians batter Tilak Varma went viral on social media on Thursday, multiple reports have claimed. The video, reportedly shared on Snapchat by Arshdeep as banter between players, showed the left-arm fast bowler joking with Tilak Varma during an informal interaction. During the exchange, Arshdeep appeared to call Tilak andhere, a Hindi word commonly associated with darkness. He later joked that the batter should apply sunscreen. The clip also featured Mumbai Indians player Naman Dhir, whom Arshdeep referred to as the real noor from Punjab, with noor meaning light. As Naman explained the word to Tilak, the batter replied that he already uses sunscreen. Although the conversation appeared casual and light-hearted among the players, the video quickly sparked criticism online. Several social media users flayed Arshdeep for his remarks that carried racist undertones. Some users described the comments as 'insensitive', while others questioned whether such humour was appropriate for public figures with a large online following. The controversy has once again drawn attention to cricketers social media activity and the growing scrutiny around online content shared by players during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season. This is not the first instance of Arshdeep being involved in controversy for his online activity. A vlog posted on his YouTube channel had previously drawn a massive reaction after Yuzvendra Chahal was captured vaping inside a plane in it. Reports have previously suggested that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had circulated fresh guidelines for IPL players, support staff, and team officials regarding behaviour on social media and off the field. This is not the first instance of Arshdeep being involved in controversy for his online activity. A vlog posted on his YouTube channel had previously drawn a massive reaction after Yuzvendra Chahal was captured vaping inside a plane in it. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Arshdeep, who is known for his active social media presence and behind-the-scenes content, enjoys a massive following online with more than six million followers on Instagram. Article Source: IANS
MP Premier League Gets Bigger As Mens Section Expands To 10 Teams, Womens To Feature Five
The Madhya Pradesh Premier League: The Madhya Pradesh Premier League (MPL) 2026 gets bigger and more exciting this season with the addition of five new teams across the mens and womens competitions. The mens tournament, which previously featured seven franchises, will now have 10 teams competing for the title after the inclusion of three new sides. The mens competition will now feature teams representing Ujjain and Nimar, while the womens tournament will see the addition of a franchise from Gwalior. The womens tournament has also seen significant growth. Two new franchises have been added, increasing the total number of teams from three to five. The move is being seen as a major boost for womens cricket in Madhya Pradesh, giving more players a platform to showcase their talent. The expansion is expected to make the competition tougher and provide opportunities to more young cricketers from across the state. Reflecting on the new additions, former MPL Chairman Mahanaaryaman Scindia said, This is a very positive step for the growth of the competition. The addition of new teams in both the mens and womens tournaments will create more opportunities for players and help us discover fresh talent from different parts of Madhya Pradesh. We want the league to continue growing and becoming a strong platform for young cricketers. I wish all the teams the very best and hope fans enjoy an exciting season. The womens tournament has also seen significant growth. Two new franchises have been added, increasing the total number of teams from three to five. The move is being seen as a major boost for womens cricket in Madhya Pradesh, giving more players a platform to showcase their talent. The expansion is expected to make the competition tougher and provide opportunities to more young cricketers from across the state. Also Read: Live Cricket Score In the womens competition, Gwalior Shernis and Royal Nimar Eagles are the two new franchises added for the upcoming season. They will join Bhopal Wolves, Bundelkhand Bulls, and Chambal Ghariyals in the expanded five-team tournament. Article Source: IANS
Karnataka Open | Tyagitakes out Stewart, advances to the semifinals
Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium: Opener Prabhsimran Singh struck a fluent half-century while Azmatullah Omarzai provided late fireworks with a quickfire 38 as Punjab Kings posted a competitive 200/8 in 20 overs against Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamshala on Thursday. Despite Punjab crossing the 200-run mark, Mumbai all-rounder Shardul Thakur impressed with an excellent four-wicket haul. After being asked to bat first, Punjab Kings made a cautious start with openers Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh taking time to settle in. The pair collected only seven runs from the opening over before Priyansh attacked Jasprit Bumrah with two boundaries in the second over. Deepak Chahar kept things tight from one end, but Priyansh continued to find boundaries against Bumrah. Prabhsimran then shifted gears in the fifth over, smashing three fours off Shardul Thakur to put pressure back on Mumbai. Mumbai finally got the breakthrough in the final over of the Power-play when Chahar bowled Priyansh with a good-length delivery. The opener scored 22 off 17 balls, including four boundaries, as Punjab finished the powerplay at 58/1. Punjabs leading run-scorer this IPL season, Cooper Connolly, began cautiously while Prabhsimran carried on the attack. The wicketkeeper-batter struck two sixes off Raghu Sharma in the 10th over to take Punjab to 89/1 at the halfway stage. Prabhsimran reached his fifty in just 29 balls in the 11th over, but his entertaining knock ended soon after when he mistimed a pull shot against Shardul and was caught by Corbin Bosch. He scored 57 from 32 balls with six fours and four sixes. Thakur then delivered another big blow in the same over by clean bowling the Punjab captain Shreyas Iyer for just four runs. Punjabs innings started losing momentum as Connolly was also bowled in the following over by Raj Angad Bawa after scoring 21 off 22 deliveries. Young batter Suryansh Shedge briefly looked dangerous with a six, but Thakur once again struck with a slower delivery to dismiss him for eight runs off five balls. Punjabs collapse continued when Shashank Singh was trapped lbw by Bosch after attempting to shuffle across the stumps. The batter reviewed the decision, but ball-tracking confirmed the dismissal. Soon after, Shardul claimed his fourth wicket by bowling Marco Jansen for just two runs as Punjab lost four wickets in a span of five overs. With wickets tumbling at the other end, Azmatullah Omarzai counterattacked brilliantly. The Afghan all-rounder smashed three sixes and a boundary in an over from Deepak Chahar and played a crucial cameo of 38 from only 17 balls, including two fours and four sixes, before getting out attempting another big shot. Towards the end, impact substitute Vishnu Vinod added a useful 15, while Xavier Bartlett remained unbeaten on 18 to help Punjab Kings finish strongly and cross the 200-run mark. For the Mumbai Indians, Thakur was the standout bowler with figures of 4-39 in his four overs. Deepak Chahar picked up two wickets, while Corbin Bosch and Raj Angad Bawa claimed one wicket each. Towards the end, impact substitute Vishnu Vinod added a useful 15, while Xavier Bartlett remained unbeaten on 18 to help Punjab Kings finish strongly and cross the 200-run mark. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Punjab Kings 200/8 in 20 overs (Prabhsimran Singh 57, Azmatullah Omarzai 38; Shardul Thakur 4-39, Deepak Chahar 2-36) against Mumbai Indians Article Source: IANS
CSK must fill Overton-sized hole against LSG
With four wins in their last five games, CSK have climbed to fifth place, but must now find a solution for another injury problem
Zakir Hasan Replaces Injured Shadman Islam In Bangladesh Squad For Second Test
The Bangladesh Cricket Board: Bangladesh have suffered an injury setback ahead of the second Test against Pakistan as opener Shadman Islam was ruled out of the match with a chest injury sustained during the series opener in Mirpur. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) confirmed on Thursday that fellow left-handed opener Zakir Hasan has been drafted into the squad as Shadmans replacement for the second Test, scheduled to begin on May 16 in Sylhet. According to Bangladesh national team physio Bayjedul Islam Khan, Shadman picked up the injury while attempting a catch during Bangladeshs memorable 104-run victory over Pakistan in the first Test. Shadman took a blow in the chest while taking a catch during the first Test in Mirpur. He has a traumatic contusion of the chest and is in pain. He will not be available for the second Test, unfortunately, Bayjedul said in an official BCB statement. The injury comes at an unfortunate time for Bangladesh, who are currently enjoying one of their most successful runs against Pakistan in Test cricket. The Mirpur triumph was Bangladeshs third consecutive Test victory over Pakistan, and also their first-ever home Test win against the visitors. Bangladesh sealed the dramatic win on the final day after bowling Pakistan out for 163 while defending a target of 268. Young pace sensation Nahid Rana emerged as the star of the match with a fiery spell of 5/40, dismantling Pakistans batting lineup during the tense final session. Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto also played a crucial role in the victory with a fluent 87 in the second innings, helping Bangladesh post a competitive total after adding valuable runs on the fifth morning. Bangladesh sealed the dramatic win on the final day after bowling Pakistan out for 163 while defending a target of 268. Young pace sensation Nahid Rana emerged as the star of the match with a fiery spell of 5/40, dismantling Pakistans batting lineup during the tense final session. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Zakir Hasan, 28, returns to the Bangladesh Test setup after last featuring in the format in November 2024. The left-hander has previously impressed with his attacking approach at the top of the order and will now have an opportunity to cement his place as Bangladesh look to clinch the two-match series in Sylhet. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Our Goal Is Still To Win, Says Corbin Bosch As He Backs MI To Finish Strong
Indian Premier League: Mumbai Indians all-rounder Corbin Bosch said the five-time champions remain determined to finish their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 campaign strongly despite being knocked out of playoff contention, insisting that the teams mindset has not changed ahead of the clash against Punjab Kings. Speaking ahead of the crucial encounter, Bosch said the Mumbai Indians are still fully focused on winning matches and ending the season on a positive note. Theres still a real buzz around the group. Weve come here to win. Every time we step onto that field, the goal remains the same, Bosch told broadcasters ahead of the match. The South African pacer admitted the Mumbai Indians have failed to capitalise on key moments during the season, which ultimately cost them a place in the playoffs. Results havent gone our way lately. Weve missed some crucial chances that led to poor results, but today is another opportunity to turn that around. Thats the plan, he added. Bosch also said the squad is motivated by the prospect of upsetting teams still fighting for playoff qualification in the closing stages of the tournament. Wed love to spoil a few parties. Several teams were facing in these final games are fighting for a playoff spot. At the end of the day, our goal is to win and make things difficult for everyone else, he said. Reflecting on his recent bowling performance, Bosch said conditions suited his style, and he was pleased to contribute to the team despite the defeat. Its just one of those things, really. I think the wicket the other day was perfectly suited to my style of bowling, and I was just happy to put in a solid performance for the team. Unfortunately, it wasnt quite enough to get us over the line, but Im glad I could contribute, Bosch said. Bosch also said the squad is motivated by the prospect of upsetting teams still fighting for playoff qualification in the closing stages of the tournament. Wed love to spoil a few parties. Several teams were facing in these final games are fighting for a playoff spot. At the end of the day, our goal is to win and make things difficult for everyone else, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Despite boasting a star-studded lineup and showing early promise, the Mumbai Indians failed to convert their on-paper strength into consistent performances throughout the campaign. Their season has been marked by inconsistency, leaving them ninth on the points table with just six points from 11 matches. Article Source: IANS
Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International: Royal Challengers Bengaluru batter Tim David underlined the physical and mental demands of Virat Kohlis unbeaten 105, taking the defending champions to the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 points table, saying that people dont appreciate how fit one has to be to finish off a game. At the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium, Kohli returned to form after bagging consecutive ducks as he steered his team home in a chase of 193 in Raipur with an excellent 60-ball knock, also his ninth IPL century, laced with 11 fours and three sixes. Kohli became the most capped player in tournament history with his 279th appearance, and crossed 14,000 runs in T20 cricket - the fastest batter to reach the milestone in just 409 innings. Its just a joy for all of us to watch. The way he chased it down when we only needed the two points. That was a great performance. It was hot out there, and he was running around everywhere and still batting through the innings. People dont appreciate how fit you have to be to finish the game off, said David in a release issued by the franchise. Kohli also crossed 400 runs in an IPL season for the 12th time and went past 6000 IPL runs as an opener. Mentor and batting coach Dinesh Karthik echoed the sentiment by stressing Kohlis clarity and confidence. Were all used to seeing it, sometimes you dont realise how special what he does actually is. He had complete confidence in himself during the innings. The strokes he played were very self-assured, and he knew exactly what he needed to do to get the team across the finish line. I wish people got more insight into how he speaks during the strategic timeout. Hes so clear and confident about what he needs to do, he added. Kohli also crossed 400 runs in an IPL season for the 12th time and went past 6000 IPL runs as an opener. Mentor and batting coach Dinesh Karthik echoed the sentiment by stressing Kohlis clarity and confidence. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The guys that havent been playing have been sensational around the dugout. Venkatesh Iyer is a player who has represented India, and the way he has conducted himself has been great role-modelling for some of the younger players. It shows a level of humility and generosity. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Hardik, Suryakumar Out As Mumbai Indians Opt To Bowl Against Punjab Kings
Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association: Mumbai Indians won the toss and elected to bowl first against Punjab Kings in Match 58 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) Stadium in Dharamshala on Thursday. Captain Hardik Pandya has still not recovered fully, and Jasprit Bumrah is leading MI for the first time in his absence. While Suryakumar Yadav is also missing the match due to personal reasons. Punjab Kings have also made three changes as Harprit Brar, Xavier Bartlett, and Azmat Omarzai are included in the playing XI. After winning the toss, MI skipper Jasprit Bumrah said, We have decided to bowl first. We saw the last game and felt that maybe with the cold weather coming down, the wicket would settle down. I didn't think that I would be a Test captain before becoming MI captain (smiles). As much as we can, we can play three games left, and we want to enjoy and maybe ruffle a few teams. Surya is not here for personal reasons, and Allah is not there as well. While after losing the toss, Shreyas Iyer said, We would have bowled first as well. The wicket looks a bit drier. Still don't know how the pitch will play, so just being positive about it. We should stop thinking about what has gone wrong. We have to think about being in good shape and having a positive mindset. Harpreet Brar, Xavier Bartlett, and Azmatullah Omarzai come in. Punjab began their campaign in dominant fashion, winning six of their opening seven matches and emerging as one of the strongest sides in the tournament. However, their momentum has faded in recent weeks, with Shreyas Iyer's men suffering four consecutive defeats. As the playoff battle heats up, PBKS will be desperate to halt the slide and strengthen their chances of securing a top-four finish. PBKS are currently placed at fourth position in the points table with 13 points in 11 matches. On the other side, the Mumbai Indians were knocked out of the competition following their eighth defeat of the season against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Raipur on May 10. Despite boasting a star-studded lineup and showing early promise, they failed to convert their on-paper strength into consistent performances throughout the campaign. Their season has been marked by inconsistency, leaving them ninth on the points table with just six points from 11 matches. Playing XIs Punjab Kings: Prabhsimran Singh(wk), Priyansh Arya, Cooper Connolly, Shreyas Iyer(c), Suryansh Shedge, Shashank Singh, Azmatullah Omarzai, Marco Jansen, Xavier Bartlett, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal Impact substitutes: Harpreet Brar, Vijaykumar Vyashk, Mitchell Owen, Praveen Dubey, Vishnu Vinod. Punjab Kings: Prabhsimran Singh(wk), Priyansh Arya, Cooper Connolly, Shreyas Iyer(c), Suryansh Shedge, Shashank Singh, Azmatullah Omarzai, Marco Jansen, Xavier Bartlett, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal Also Read: Live Cricket Score Impact substitutes: Rohit Sharma, Mayank Rawat, Robin Minz, Krish Bhagat, Trent Boult Article Source: IANS
Bumrah-led PBKS opt to bowl; PBKS pick Omarzai
Both Hardik and SKY were unavailable for MI, who are out of contention for the playoffs
IPL 2026: Bumrah Set To Lead MI Against PBKS In Absence Of Hardik And Suryakumar
Indian Premier League: Ace fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah is set to captain the Mumbai Indians in their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 clash against Punjab Kings at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala on Thursday, with both regular captain Hardik Pandya and stand-in skipper Suryakumar Yadav unavailable. An IPL source told IANS that the franchise has given the leadership armband to Bumrah, who has been with MI in the IPL since 2013. This is the first time Bumrah will captain MI in the IPL. Bumrahs past leadership experience has come via leading India in two 2024/25 BorderGavaskar Trophy Tests in Australia and in the rescheduled Birmingham Test against England in 2022. Hardik and Suryakumar arent featuring in the game in Dharamshala due to varied reasons. Hardik is still recuperating from back spasms, though he did practice at the Reliance Corporate Park. Suryakumar, meanwhile, is with his family, especially with his daughter Riddhima, born just a week ago, and MI have been extremely understanding in this regard. Subsequently, the franchise set-up decided that Bumrah would take up the leadership role for this game against PBKS, further said the source. Hardik and Suryakumar arent featuring in the game in Dharamshala due to varied reasons. Hardik is still recuperating from back spasms, though he did practice at the Reliance Corporate Park. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Despite that, the match is expected to go ahead without any weather disruption. The last time these two teams met, PBKS chased down a target of 196 with 21 deliveries to spare at the Wankhede Stadium last month. MI are already out of contention for the playoffs, while PBKS need a victory to end their four-game losing streak in the ten-team competition. Article Source: IANS
Zakir Hasan replaces Shadman Islam for Sylhet Test against Pakistan
Shadman picked up a chest injury while taking a catch during the Mirpur Test
Hampshire sign allrounder Delano Potgieter on short-term deal
South African joins club for three Championship matches and Blast following red-ball retirement of Liam Dawson
Karnataka Mens Cricket Tournament For The Blind Reaches The Semifinal Stage
Deepa Academy Bengaluru: Deepa Academy Bengaluru will take on JSB Ramanagara while Samarthanam Bengaluru will meet Asha Kirana Chikkaballapura in the semifinal matches of Samarthanam Cup 2026 Karnataka Mens Cricket Tournament for the Blind in Bengaluru on Friday. The winners of the two matches will meet in the grand finale, which will be played later in the afternoon. The winning team will receive a cash prize of 31,000 and a trophy, while the runners-up will be awarded 21,000 and a trophy. The remaining teams will receive participation prizes of 10,000 each. The tournament is also serving as a platform to identify talented visually impaired cricketers for future state and national-level coaching camps. The event reached the Knockout Stage after the initial rounds in Bengaluru ended on Wednesday. The event is being organised to promote inclusive sports and encourage visually impaired cricketers across the state. Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled organised the event, which was inaugurated on May 12 at the Ramu Sports Arena by Dr. Mahantesh G K, Founder and Managing Trustee, in the presence of Karnataka Cricket Association for the Blind (KCAB) members. A total of eight teams from different districts of Karnataka are participating in the 10-over tournament. Following three days of league-stage matches featuring 12 competitive games, the tournament has now advanced to the knockout stage. The Samarthanam Cup 2026 - Karnataka Mens Cricket Tournament for the Blind is being organised by the Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled and is recognised by the Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI). Samarthanam Trust for the disabled, through its sports body CABI, endeavours to provide them with this unique opportunity. Besides, sports, as is well known, open up employment vistas for persons with visual impairments, the physically challenged, and the economically weaker. Registered as a Trust in 1997, Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled has been working towards creating education and livelihood opportunities for persons with disabilities and from underserved communities. The larger vision of the organisation is to work towards an inclusive society that provides equal opportunities for all. Fixtures: Registered as a Trust in 1997, Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled has been working towards creating education and livelihood opportunities for persons with disabilities and from underserved communities. The larger vision of the organisation is to work towards an inclusive society that provides equal opportunities for all. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Samarthanam Bengaluru vs Asha Kirana Chikkaballapura Article Source: IANS
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi earns maiden India A call-up for one-day tri-series in SL
Tilak Varma will lead the India A side, with Parag named as his deputy
IPL 2026: Overton Ruled Out As CSK Pick Dian Forrester As Replacement
BRSABV Ekana Cricket Stadium: Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have picked Dian Forrester as Jamie Overtons replacement after the latter was ruled out of the remainder of the season due to a right thigh injury. Overton returned to England due to a right thigh injury. The seam-bowling all-rounders absence exacerbates CSKs injury issues, which are already serious due to the unavailability of Nathan Ellis, Khaleel Ahmed, Ayush Mhatre, Ramakrishna Ghosh and the sidelining of MS Dhoni with a calf injury. Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have picked a player replacement for Jamie Overton, who has been ruled out of the remainder of the season due to a right thigh injury. Dian Forrester will join CSK for INR 75 lakh as a replacement for Overton. Forrester, an all-rounder from South Africa, made his debut in March 2026 against New Zealand and has featured in 5 international games, scoring 83 runs, the IPL said in a statement on Thursday. Jamie Overton has a right thigh injury and will be returning to the UK for further assessment and management, CSK had said in a statement on their social media accounts late on Wednesday. CSK remains in the playoff race with 12 points from 11 matches, sitting fifth in the points table. Led by Ruturaj Gaikwad, the team aims to strengthen their chances by facing Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at the BRSABV Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow on Friday evening. Overton has been a key performer for CSK this season, taking 14 wickets at an average of 17.78, making him their second-highest wicket-taker. His economy rate stood at 8.89. He earned the Player of the Match award after delivering 3-36 in CSK's five-wicket victory over LSG at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on May 11. His batting ability and contribution of lower-order runs were crucial in stabilising the team. CSK remains in the playoff race with 12 points from 11 matches, sitting fifth in the points table. Led by Ruturaj Gaikwad, the team aims to strengthen their chances by facing Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at the BRSABV Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow on Friday evening. Also Read: Live Cricket Score --IANS Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: When And Where To Watch LSG Vs CSK, Know All Details
Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari: Lucknow Super Giants and Chennai Super Kings are set to face each other once again when they meet at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium on Friday, just days after their previous encounter in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 in Chennai. The two sides last met on May 10 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, where CSK secured a five-wicket victory. Josh Inglis starred with a blistering 85 off 33 deliveries, while Shahbaz Ahmed made a strong all-round contribution with an unbeaten 43 off 25 balls and figures of 2/30. With their playoff hopes already over, the Rishabh Pant-led Lucknow side will now focus on finishing the season positively. The franchise has three matches remaining and will be eager to begin the final stretch with a home victory against CSK, after managing only three wins so far this season. For Chennai, the equation remains very different. The five-time IPL champions currently occupy fifth place on the table with six wins from 11 matches and remain firmly in the hunt for a playoff berth. After enduring an inconsistent start to the campaign, the Ruturaj Gaikwad-led side has regained momentum at a crucial stage of the tournament as the race for the top four intensifies, and they will have to win all their remaining fixtures to remain in contention. When: Friday, May 15, 7:30 PM IST Where: Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow Where to Watch: The LSG vs CSK match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Where: Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow Also Read: Live Cricket Score Chennai Super Kings: Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), MS Dhoni (wk), Devon Conway, Rahul Tripathi, Shaik Rasheed, Vansh Bedi (wk), C Andre Siddharth, Rachin Ravindra, Ravichandran Ashwin, Vijay Shankar, Sam Curran, Anshul Kamboj, Deepak Hooda, Jamie Overton, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Ramakrishna Ghosh, Ravindra Jadeja, Shivam Dube, Khaleel Ahmed, Noor Ahmad, Mukesh Choudhary, Dewald Brevis, Nathan Ellis, Shreyas Gopal, Matheesha Pathirana. Article Source: IANS
LSG vs CSK Match 59, IPL 2026: Preview, Predicted XIs, Player Tips & Match Prediction
LSG vs CSK Match 59 , Cricket Tips :Chennai Super Kings and Lucknow Super Giants will be up against each other for the second time in IPL 2026. CSK recorded their highest IPL chase against LSG a few days back, courtesy of a 13-ball fifty by Urvil Patel. That win boosted CSK's chances for the playoffs. Now, these two teams will meet again on Friday at Ekana Stadium at 7:30 PM IST. CSK need this win to keep their chances strong for the next round. But ahead of this game, they suffered a massive blow when Jamie Overton was ruled out due to injury. He was the Player of the Match against LSG in the last game. Hence, it will be a big miss for CSK. For LSG, there is nothing to lose, and they will look to spoil CSK's party. LSG vs CSK: Match Details Date : May 15, 2026 (Friday) Time : 7:30 PM IST Venue : Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow LSG vs CSK Live Streaming Details To watch the LSG vs CSK clash, fans can switch to the Star Sports networks on cable TVs. The live stream of the game will be available on the Jio Hotstar app or website. LSG vs CSK Head-to-Head in IPL Total Matches : 07 LSG : 03 CSK : 03 No - Result : 01 LSG vs CSK: Ground Pitch Report The wicket in Lucknow is on the slower side. This ball sticks here as the surface is sluggish. Fast bowlers will get seam movement,, and slow bowlers will have a big role at this wicket. It is not an easy wicket to bat on, and long square boundaries are also a challenge for the batters. LSG vs CSK Possible XIs LSG : Josh Inglis, Mitchell Marsh, Rishabh Pant (c) (wk), Nicholas Pooran, Aiden Markram, Akshat Raghuwanshi, Himmat Singh, Shahbaz Ahmed, Mohammed Shami, Digvesh Singh Rathi, and Prince Yadav MI : Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Sanju Samson (wk), Urvil Patel, Kartik Sharma, Dewald Brevis, Matt Short, Shivam Dube, Anshul Kamboj, Akeal Hosein, Noor Ahmad, and Mukesh Choudhary LSG vs CSK Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Josh Inglis played a blistering knock against CSK in the last game. He will be looking to replicate that knock. For CSK, Urvil Patel will be the one to watch out for. Probable Bowler Prince Yadav has been fantastic for LSG, and he will be their key bowler. For CSK, Anshul Kamboj has been a consistent performer with the ball. Today Match Prediction : Overton will be a big miss, but CSK have still done better than LSG this season. That is why we predict CSK to win this game. LSG vs CSK Match 59, IPL 2026, Today 2026 Match, LSG vs CSK 2026 Prediction, LSG vs CSK Predicted XIs, Injury Update for LSG vs CSK Match Also Read: Live Cricket Score Disclaimer : The predictions or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.
Padikkal: 'Kohli showed why he is who he is'
Kohli came into the match against KKR on the back of consecutive ducks but hit an unbeaten century in the 193-run chase
Wolvaardt And Nahid Rana Claim ICC Player Of The Month Honours For April
The South African: Bangladesh pacer Nahid Rana and South Africa captain Laura Wolvaardt have been named the ICC Mens and Womens Players of the Month, respectively, following impressive performances in recent international assignments. Rana secured the mens honour for the first time after playing a pivotal role in Bangladeshs 2-1 home series victory over New Zealand. The young fast bowler finished the series with eight wickets at an economy rate of 4.46 and was adjudged Player of the Series. His standout performance came in the second ODI in Mirpur, where he claimed 5 for 32 to help Bangladesh register a commanding 55-run victory. He also chipped in with two wickets in the deciding game in Chattogram. Rana finished ahead of Oman skipper Jatinder Singh and UAE seamer Ajay Kumar in the voting process. Its a great feeling to be named the ICC Player of the Month after performing well against a world-class side like New Zealand. To deliver on home soil made the series even more special, and it was a series that I will always cherish. Im grateful to my teammates for their constant support and belief in me throughout. I hope to keep contributing to more victories and memorable moments for my team, Rana said. Meanwhile, Wolvaardt continued her remarkable run by clinching her third ICC Player of the Month award in the last seven months, having previously won the accolade in October and December last year. The South African opener produced a string of consistent performances across formats during the white-ball series against New Zealand women and India women. She scored back-to-back knocks of 69 in the final two ODIs against New Zealand before dominating the home series against India with one century and three half-centuries as South Africa claimed a 4-1 triumph. Meanwhile, Wolvaardt continued her remarkable run by clinching her third ICC Player of the Month award in the last seven months, having previously won the accolade in October and December last year. Also Read: Live Cricket Score What makes this award even more special is that these performances came against the reigning World Cup and T20 World Cup champions, which is something I truly cherish. Im grateful to my team-mates for their constant support, and I hope to carry this form into the ICC Womens T20 World Cup next month in England and Wales. Article Source: IANS
Pakistan's Ashraf Joins Yorkshire For T20 Blast As Replacement For Injured Sutherland
Big Bash League: Pakistans seam-bowling all-rounder Faheem Ashraf has been signed by Yorkshire for the upcoming T20 Blast, scheduled to run from May 26 to July 18. He comes in as a replacement for uncapped Australian all-rounder Will Sutherland, who has been ruled out with a shoulder injury. Ashraf, 32, is also set to feature in two rounds of the County Championship in June. Faheem, who has been capped 85 times in T20Is, has previously represented Northamptonshire and Sussex in county cricket. He will arrive ahead of Yorkshires opening game in the T20 against Nottinghamshire at Trent Bridge on May 22. Somerset are the defending champions in the T20 Blast after having won their third title in the previous season. Im delighted to be joining Yorkshire. Many of my fellow Pakistan players have represented the Club and have spoken highly of both the environment and the quality of players within the squad. Im really looking forward to arriving at Headingley, said Ashraf in a statement issued by the club on Thursday. Faheem brings considerable experience, having featured in the Big Bash League, Bangladesh Premier League and the Blast. He recently became only the second player in Pakistan Super League history to score 1000 runs and take 100 wickets. Im delighted to be joining Yorkshire. Many of my fellow Pakistan players have represented the Club and have spoken highly of both the environment and the quality of players within the squad. Im really looking forward to arriving at Headingley, said Ashraf in a statement issued by the club on Thursday. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Yorkshires general manager of cricket Gavin Hamilton welcomed his signing. Faheem is an experienced multi-format player who will be a really valuable addition to the squad. He brings a great ability to score quick, lower order runs as well as the skill to make a real impact with the ball. Article Source: IANS
Saudi Arabia set to host Dunes League T20 from October
It will be Saudi Arabia's first franchise league and is expected to feature retired internationals who are still active in the franchise circuit
IPL 2026: Centrewicket Practice, New Trigger Movement Helped Rinku Regain Form, Reveals Nayar
Kolkata Knight Riders: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) head coach Abhishek Nayar has credited extensive centrewicket practice sessions and a technical tweak in Rinku Singhs trigger movement for the lefthanders resurgence in IPL 2026 after a lean start to the season. Rinku has struck 207 runs in his last four outings without being dismissed, batting at a strike rate of 172. On Wednesday, he made an unbeaten 29ball 49 to lift KKR to 192/4 in Raipur, though it went in vain as RCB won by six wickets, thanks to Virat Kohlis unbeaten 105. One of the things we tried when we were not doing so well was a lot of centrewicket practice to bring the confidence back. Same with Varun (Chakravarthy), same with Rinku, because they were two really important players for us and didnt start the tournament well. So obviously, there are different processes for both of them, but for Rinku, it was getting him in the centre. If you would have noticed, his initial movement changed; hes now walking across compared to before. So we kind of figured that out, maybe that can help him, and hes never done that, so we added that to his batting. It helped him. So a lot of work was going on when we were trying to get these guys back, because its not easy, said Nayar in the post-game press conference. Beyond technique, Nayar stressed the importance of restoring belief in Rinku. Just having access to grounds and making sure we spent some time in the heat kind of helped. Getting his mind back into the belief systems that he can clear the boundary, he can hit those fours and sixes, and what he can do technically and tactically to actually do that. So a lot of groundwork was done. I think, to be honest with you, through and through from the inception of the tournament, the one thing that we decided collectively was to be very consistent. Consistent in how we approach our processes as a team. Making sure the environment, which I feel in the IPL is one of the hardest things to maintain with all the outside noise and pressure. Making sure we create that environment for the guys where they feel like they can be themselves. Because sometimes this tournament can take that away from you, he said. He acknowledged the emotional toll poor form can take on a player in the IPL. I know from the outside you dont understand what a player goes through, but its really hard for an individual to not have a good game and come back, and the amount of messages they get, even from close friends or family, its not easy for them. Making sure the environment, which I feel in the IPL is one of the hardest things to maintain with all the outside noise and pressure. Making sure we create that environment for the guys where they feel like they can be themselves. Because sometimes this tournament can take that away from you, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Because when you enter an IPL, everyone wants to win. Theres no one whos not going to give their best. Theres no one who doesnt want to perform. But sometimes you need to accept that things arent going in your favour. We talk about luck, the rub of the green - sometimes that doesnt go your way and you need to accept that, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
Kolkata Knight Riders: Former India opener Aakash Chopra believes Manish Pandey produced one of the finest catches ever seen in the IPL after the veteran pulled off a breathtaking one-handed effort during Kolkata Knight Riders recently concluded clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Raipur. Although KKR eventually went down by six wickets as Virat Kohli struck a match-winning unbeaten century, Pandeys stunning grab to dismiss Tim David became one of the defining visual moments of the contest. Reacting to the effort, Chopra said the catch stood out even more in a season where dropped chances have repeatedly dominated conversations around fielding standards. It was a stunning catch by Manish Pandey. We have seen nearly 175 drops already this season. But once in a while, we get a gem like this one. Manish dived full stretch to his left and pulled off a blinder. The umpire had to check two things. First, whether the ball had touched the ground. Second, whether it was Manish Pandey or Glenn Phillips. Because we are so used to seeing Phillips take these kinds of screamers. But this time, it was Manish Pandey. It left everyone stunned. Tim David stood there in disbelief and said it was not possible. This catch will go down as one of the best in IPL history. Manish Pandey has now played all 19 IPL seasons. Only Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have done the same. MS Dhoni hasn't played a match this season yet, Chopra told while speaking on JioStar. The pivotal moment came during the final delivery of the 18th over in RCBs chase of 193. By then, Kohli had already established Bengalurus dominance with another calm, masterful chase, supported earlier by Devdutt Padikkal at the top. As RCB edged closer to victory, Tim David stepped in with the intention of finishing the game swiftly. Kartik Tyagi delivered a sharp, skiddy ball outside off stump, prompting David to swing hard, aiming to edge the ball behind point. The sequence of events that followed left almost everyone in the stadium momentarily stunned. Positioned at backward point, Pandey instinctively reacted as the ball sped low and fast toward his left. Stretching fully and diving, he managed to catch the ball just inches above the ground while still in midair. For a few moments, there was doubt about the catch. Tyagi raised his hands above his head, while David stood still and looked at the umpire, uncertain if the catch was clean. At the non-strikers end, Kohlis surprised reaction showed the disbelief felt by players from both teams. Positioned at backward point, Pandey instinctively reacted as the ball sped low and fast toward his left. Stretching fully and diving, he managed to catch the ball just inches above the ground while still in midair. Also Read: Live Cricket Score RCB successfully chased the target with five balls to spare, reclaiming the top position on the IPL 2026 points table. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Relentless Work Ethic, 150-sixes-a-day Regimen Fuel Urvil Patels Rise In CSK Colours
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: Long before Urvil Patel joined the Chennai Super Kings camp in IPL 2026, the Gujarat wicketkeeper-batter was polishing his power-hitting game under his long-term coach Prakash Patani in Palampur. The rest days from his domestic cricket commitments, especially when in Ahmedabad, meant Urvil would go to Palampur and train under Patani at the ground from seven in the morning till 12 noon and would refuse to leave until he had perfected hitting 150 to 200 sixes. That unglamorous, self-imposed regimen now has yielded a rich return on investment for Urvil by hitting a 13-ball fifty the joint fastest half-century in IPL history - against Lucknow Super Giants and have the 33,000 spectators MA Chidambaram Stadium chant Uuur-vil, uuur-vil in chorus. Urvil entered CSK's playing eleven only after Ayush Mhatre was ruled out for the season with a hamstring injury, has since become the most compelling subplot in the franchises injury-hit campaign. His match-winning performance of 65 off just 23 balls in acing a chase of 204 has kept CSK's playoffs hopes alive. What stood out from Urvils whirlwind knock against LSG was not just the sheer power in the strokes, but the clarity in execution. The aggression had a method, the bat swing was fluent, the base was compact and once he spotted a scoring opportunity, there was no respite for bowlers. Equally striking was his intent to score fast, something which has been conspicuously absent in the CSK set-up for some time. For years, CSKs approach revolved around control and experience. Urvil is the total opposite of it - explosive and incredibly aggressive - a dimension that has given the side some freshness in their batting line-up. Seeing Urvil unleash carnage while being glued to his TV, Palampur-based Patani, lovingly called Dronacharya by the wicketkeeper-batter due to the Mahabharata references, still remembers one shot from that remarkable Sunday with immaculate detail: the slower ball from veteran pacer Mohammed Shami was outside the off-stump and Urvil just easily thumped it over long on. The 86-metre six he hit off Mohammed Shami - that really stood out for me. All the shots came out really well from his bat, but I am a little more fond of that shot. After all, it came off the ball of an international cricketer like him. I was thinking that it would be good if he makes a record and that it should somewhere be the biggest record in the competition by a batter, said Patani in an exclusive conversation with IANS, ahead of CSK facing LSG in Lucknow on Friday. The work ethic Patani describes did not begin with this IPL season. It is, by his account, the default mode of a cricketer who has never treated preparation as optional. This year, with IPL around, he would say, 'Sir, please help me with preparation, as T20 is the focus format now. He worked very hard for six hitting and was very attentive in preparation, he said. This self-accountability extends, according to Patani, into every other corner of Urvil's preparation after entering the IPL bandwagon, though his demeanour is still the same. His lunch and dinner diet is monitored with care, while his fitness work is consistent. It doesn't feel like he is an IPL player. He comes alone. He is very simple, very grounded, completely normal and can talk easily with anyone. He doesn't have any airs that I am such a big player now. There was tension within the Patani and Patel household when Urvil didnt get his chances and when Mhatre got injured, the coach reminded his student about grabbing his opportunities now. Before Sundays match, we did talk about upcoming games. When he wasnt playing, I told him to have patience as an opportunity was in the making once Mhatre was declared unfit. After that game, I told him Well played. He said Thank you sir, aapki kripa hai (its all your grace). Aapne mere upar achi mehnat kari, aur yeh uska parinaam hai (You did work very hard on me and all of this is a result of it). Urvil grew up in a family where cricket was not a familiar language. Both his parents are schoolteachers and when they recognised their son's aptitude for the sport, they enrolled him under Patani. I worked hard and taught him how to play. Parents are there and they have supported him a lot - drop in morning and pick him later. They have struggled a lot, and we are happy he is doing well. Kirat Damani, former Gujarat captain and now the chief mens selector at the Gujarat Cricket Association (GCA), has observed Urvil since the latters U23 days. What he watched develop over four years was a textbook case of a batter with exceptional natural gifts being more consistent in an unforgiving format seen from him hitting two centuries in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. In all the local and selection games, which formed the basis of selection into the Gujarat team, he was one of those players who would very easily impress the selectors with his clean hitting. Hitting sixes and boundaries for him has always been very easy. Earlier, there was a lack of consistency in terms of the hitting he used to do - like convert into big knocks after getting good starts. But like the great Virender Sehwag, when he started, I think, selection of shot making becomes very important when a batter has too many shots and that's exactly what happened with Urvil. He started off well, but he would later falter. At a score of 20s and 30s, he would end up giving away his wicket and play a shot which he could have avoided, said Damani to IANS. The remedy, Damani said, was not primarily technical. It came through sustained, direct conversation about what the team needed from Urvil at any given moment. I have worked very closely with him and at least in the last two years, I have been speaking with him a lot that he is the natural match winner in white-ball cricket and his focus should be trying to win more and more games for Gujarat. Therefore, we appointed him as the captain as well and is a very, very good wicket-keeper - very athletic and very strong. I had been talking and trying on how Urvil can convert his talent into performances that can win games. He has come a long way like he has started taking the responsibility and accountability of understanding the way he is required and needed by the team to play. Gujarat also has been playing fantastic cricket in the last couple of seasons in T20s and lot of credit for that goes to Urvil as well because he opens up the innings and sets up the game for us. He has been scoring more than one century, which is not usual in T20 cricket. He has come a long way and I am sure that this is the beginning of greater things for him. Damani, also a prominent real estate and commercial corporate lawyer, further believes an IPL century is a question of when it will come from Urvils bat, instead of whether it would come. There are a lot of talented players. But very few of them end up really delivering when there is pressure, a serious need to win and when there is a steep target. That knock had way more and bigger value compared to just any other knock - he had to make a mark while not having got a chance earlier, and the team badly needed a win. I am glad that he has made most of the chances. The way he batted, it was a very timely knock for the team also because CSK did require that win in the context of staying relevant for reaching the playoffs. I think a century is just coming down the road for him. I hope that next time he gets a start, he closes with a big hundred because he is used to getting centuries in this format of the game. I am hoping that a couple of knocks here will again open up a beautiful chance for him to play beyond the Gujarat state and the IPL - maybe for India or India A in the T20 format. Inside the CSK dressing room, Patani said, Patel has spoken of consistent backing from MS Dhoni, captain Ruturaj Gaikwad and the franchise's support staff. Sundays astonishing knock was also Urvils first IPL fifty, and when it arrived, carried a significance that had been decided long before the game was played. Patani revealed that Patel had quietly resolved, somewhere in the months of pre-dawn sessions and solitary drives to the ground, that the milestone of getting a fifty in the IPL would be for his father. When Urvil got his fifty in 13 balls, he folded his hands in silent prayer and took out a note from his pocket, which said, This is for you Papa, apart from a line written for his family kuldevi (goddess) in Gujarati. Inside the CSK dressing room, Patani said, Patel has spoken of consistent backing from MS Dhoni, captain Ruturaj Gaikwad and the franchise's support staff. Sundays astonishing knock was also Urvils first IPL fifty, and when it arrived, carried a significance that had been decided long before the game was played. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Regardless of how the remainder of IPL 2026 unfolds for Urvil or CSK, Patani remains convinced that bigger honours are in store for the young batter. He will play for India now. If not today, he will play for India tomorrow because he has so much power and it can be utilised well. That boy has hunar (talent). He is working hard, performing well and that's what we want, as it will be good for both Chennai and him. Article Source: IANS
Faheem Ashraf signed to fill Will Sutherland-shaped void at Yorkshire
Pakistan allrounder available for Vitality Blast as well as two rounds of County Championship
IPL 2026: Kohli's Ability To Sum Up The Conditions Straight Away Is Second To None, Says Finch
Kolkata Knight Riders: Former Australia captain Aaron Finch believes Virat Kohlis ability to read match situations and adapt instantly to conditions is unmatched and credited that as a defining factor behind his unbeaten ton against Kolkata Knight Riders that helped Royal Challengers Bengaluru clinch a commanding six-wicket win. Kohli struck an unbeaten 105 off 60 balls to guide RCB to the top of the points table and reclaim the top spot on the IPL 2026 points table. The innings, decorated with 11 fours and three sixes, came at a strike-rate of 175 and marked Kohlis ninth IPL century. Finch said Kohlis early start in the innings was crucial, especially considering the pressure that comes with lean scores for a top-order batter. It would have been important for him just to get off the mark. Nobody wants to get three ducks in a row. Some of those shots were absolutely class. His ability to sum up the conditions straight away is second to none. The way he got into his work so quickly and was able to get his innings underway with no risk was great, Finch told JioStar. Kohli began aggressively after a cautious opening over, punishing loose deliveries from Vaibhav Arora and quickly settling into rhythm despite tricky conditions following a rain delay. Finch felt Kohlis ability to assess surfaces early remains one of the defining strengths of his batting. Thats the dream as a player at the top of the order. We always know that if you allow him to have a look at a wicket for some time, he will be successful. When hes playing at his absolute best, you feel as though hes swinging the bat at 50 per cent. He just finds the middle, and hes got that gift of timing, he said. The former Australian skipper also pointed to Kohlis effortless control during the chase, particularly his knack for finding boundaries whenever the asking rate threatened to rise, saying, It was a wonderful knock. Any time he needed to find the boundary, he did. Finch also turned his attention to Thursdays clash involving Punjab Kings and Mumbai Indians, warning the former against complacency despite MI being out of the qualification race. MI and RCB, two tough games for Punjab. Regardless of where Mumbai Indians are on the ladder, you know theyre coming hard at you. Theyve got nothing to lose. Theyve got everything to gain by contributing to knocking out a team, and thats what you play for when you get down to this part of the season, when you cant qualify yourself, Finch stated. Finch also turned his attention to Thursdays clash involving Punjab Kings and Mumbai Indians, warning the former against complacency despite MI being out of the qualification race. Also Read: Live Cricket Score But I hope Punjab do, because I like the way they go about it. Just start catching well, please! You are costing yourself so many opportunities. Crickets hard. It is brutal at the best of times, and you cant give the best players in the world chances over and over to beat you, he added. Article Source: IANS
Having Kohli In The Team Is Like 'watching Greatness From Close Quarters': Padikkal
Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International: Devdutt Padikkal praised teammate Virat Kohli after the RCB stalwarts unbeaten century powered Royal Challengers Bengaluru to a six-wicket victory over Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2026, saying sharing the dressing room with a player of Kohlis stature was like watching greatness from close quarters. Kohli struck a commanding 105 not out off 60 deliveries as RCB chased down 193 with five balls to spare at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur. Padikkal played a key supporting role with a fluent 39 during a decisive 92-run partnership for the second wicket that laid the foundation for Bengalurus successful chase. Reflecting on batting alongside Kohli, Padikkal said the veterans understanding of pressure situations and game tempo makes partnerships around him far easier to build. When you get to watch greatness in front of you, I think it's something that you are really grateful for. And to have him in our team, in our dressing room, is really, really special. And hopefully, he continues to get a lot more runs for us. I think it just makes it so easy to bat with him. He understands the tempo of the game so well. He knows when you have to put pressure on the opposition and when we have to take a step back and make sure that we build that partnership. You know, especially in the last couple of games, we have been in a situation where we have lost a few wickets in clusters. And we had to make sure that chasing a target like this, we had wickets in hand so that we could really push towards the end and finish a comfortable game, Padikkal said in a video shared by IPL on Thursday. Kohlis innings was filled with trademark control and strokeplay, featuring 11 fours and three sixes as he registered his ninth IPL hundred. One particular straight drive during the chase left Padikkal especially impressed. It was incredible to watch. I think some of the shots that he played today was unbelievable. Especially the straight shot that he hit off Anukul was something that only he can do. Hopefully, he continues to get a lot more runs for us. The victory helped RCB reclaim the top spot on the points table and strengthened their momentum heading into the final phase of the league stage. Padikkal said building consistency at this stage of the tournament was crucial after a few setbacks in recent matches. It definitely feels good. Every win is important, especially when you get down to the fag end of the tournament. It's important that you carry that momentum and make sure that you're winning games and getting into that habit of winning games comfortably and we did that, he said. RCB had suffered a couple of narrow defeats earlier in the campaign before bouncing back strongly against KKR, and Padikkal credited the sides focus on correcting small mistakes for the turnaround. It definitely feels good. Every win is important, especially when you get down to the fag end of the tournament. It's important that you carry that momentum and make sure that you're winning games and getting into that habit of winning games comfortably and we did that, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score RCB now turn their attention to their next fixture against Punjab Kings in Dharamshala, a venue Padikkal holds close for personal reasons after receiving his Test cap there. Looking forward to the game, the 25-year-old said, Yeah, really looking forward to it. I've always enjoyed going to Dharamshala, obviously. I got my Test cap there. So it's a really special place for me. So I'm really looking forward to it, and hopefully, we have another win coming our way. Article Source: IANS
Flintoff Set To Take Charge As Sydney Thunder Coach: Report
Big Bash League: Former England all-rounder Andrew Flintoff is reportedly set to be named the head coach of Sydney Thunder for the upcoming Big Bash League season. The Thunder had been searching for a replacement after parting ways with Trevor Bayliss, whose five-year tenure with the franchise ended after an inconsistent run of results. Bayliss guided the side to the BBL final in the 2024-25 campaign, but the franchise also endured bottom-place finishes in the 2023-24 and 2025-26 seasons. According to Code Sports, Flintoff has emerged as the preferred candidate for the role and is expected to be officially confirmed by the franchise shortly. The appointment would mark Flintoffs first major overseas franchise coaching role. The former England star has spent the past year working with the England Lions set-up and was part of the coaching group on the Lions tour of Australia, which ran alongside the Ashes series. Flintoff has already gained franchise experience with Northern Superchargers in The Hundred. He oversaw the side for two seasons, from 2024 to 2025, guiding them to fourth and third places, respectively. The appointment would mark Flintoffs first major overseas franchise coaching role. The former England star has spent the past year working with the England Lions set-up and was part of the coaching group on the Lions tour of Australia, which ran alongside the Ashes series. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Should the appointment proceed as expected, Flintoff is likely to face an immediate leadership call with veteran opener David Warner, whose position as Thunder captain has come under scrutiny following his recent drink-driving charge, as the former Australian opener is expected to plead guilty when the matter returns to court on June 24. Article Source: IANS
Kohli Proved That The Old Generation Is Still The Best: Gavaskar
Kolkata Knight Riders: India legend Sunil Gavaskar hailed Virat Kohli for producing yet another masterclass under pressure after the former India skipper struck an unbeaten 105 against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to guide Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to a six-wicket victory in their IPL 2026 clash in Raipur. Kohlis unbeaten 60-ball century, his ninth hundred in IPL history and 10th overall in T20 cricket, powered RCB to a successful chase of 193 with five balls to spare and lifted the side back to the top of the points table. Reflecting on Kohlis chase-defining knock, Gavaskar said the veteran batter once again showed why he remains among the games greatest performers despite the growing spotlight on younger stars this season. Virat Kohli was absolutely outstanding against KKR. He knows how to construct a chase better than most. When it comes to T20 centuries, he is third on the list with 10, behind Chris Gayle and Babar Azam. But he is the fastest to 14,000 T20 runs and has nine IPL hundreds. Records are there to be broken, but it will take a very long time for anyone to match what Kohli keeps delivering, game after game, season after season. While everyone was talking about this being the season of Gen Next, Kohli showed he is still around. He silenced the doubters with a century and moved to third in the Orange Cap race. He proved that the old generation is still the best. Even though the young stars are taking centre stage, the experienced greats are not done yet. This hundred from Virat Kohli was one of those special moments that remind us of his greatness, Gavaskar told JioStar. Kohlis innings was built with trademark control and precision. After Jacob Bethells early dismissal, the former RCB captain steadied the chase and gradually accelerated, stitching a crucial 92-run stand with Devdutt Padikkal. He reached his fifty in 32 deliveries before shifting gears in the latter half of the innings, eventually bringing up his century in the 19th over to a thunderous reception from the Raipur crowd. Gavaskar also pointed to a key turning point in the match, Rovman Powells dropped catch when Kohli was still settling into his innings. The missed opportunity proved costly as Kohli made KKR pay with a match-winning hundred. Kohlis innings was built with trademark control and precision. After Jacob Bethells early dismissal, the former RCB captain steadied the chase and gradually accelerated, stitching a crucial 92-run stand with Devdutt Padikkal. He reached his fifty in 32 deliveries before shifting gears in the latter half of the innings, eventually bringing up his century in the 19th over to a thunderous reception from the Raipur crowd. Also Read: Live Cricket Score You cannot drop Kohli early in his innings. He will make you pay every single time. LSG learned that lesson the hard way. Give him an early lifeline, and he grabs it with both hands. He scored a hundred and made KKR regret that drop. That is what great players do. They dont give you a second chance. They punish your mistakes and turn the game on its head, Gavaskar stated. Article Source: IANS
Andrew Flintoff set to be named new Sydney Thunder BBL coach
Former England allrounder is set for his first franchise coaching role overseas after two seasons in the Hundred with Northern Superchargers outside of his current England Lions role
Kohli at No. 3 on orange cap table, Bhuvneshwar at No. 1 on purple cap table
RCB players made a move up the ranks in IPL 2026
Rob Key Urges 'World-Class' Bowler Ollie Robinson To Make England Recall Count
England cricket chief Rob Key highlighted Ollie Robinson's eye-catching statistics after recalling the seamer for the first Test against New Zealand following two years in the international wilderness. The 32-year-old Robinson has a superb record in five-day cricket, with 76 wickets at a miserly average of 22.92 in just 20 appearances. The Sussex bowler, however, has not played for England since February 2024 because of concerns over his fitness and ability to maintain his top speed over long spells. But England need a new-ball spearhead at Lord's following the retirements of James Anderson, Stuart Broad and Chris Woakes and the absence of express quick Jofra Archer. Archer is unavailable for the first Test, which starts in London on June 4, due to Indian Premier League commitments, meaning Robinson could find himself leading England's attack. I think I said when we left him out the last time, to him and publicly, that Ollie Robinson, when he's fit and bowling at a decent pace for him, which is around 82, 83 miles per hour, he is world-class, said Key. When you look at his record, he is one of the few bowlers right up there statistically in all the bowlers globally of all time, he added Wednesday after announcing England's squad for the first Test at Lord's. Key, a former England batsman, said Robinson, now the Sussex captain, had been monitored closely and appeared to be firing on all cylinders. Ollie has started the summer really well, and even the other day he said, 'what do I need to do?', said Key. First of all, you need to show that you can maintain your skill, your speed throughout the game. That's what we require, and that's what he's done. Key said the absence of the injury-prone Archer due to his commitments with the Rajasthan Royals, was a sign of the times, with players juggling commitments across the globe. When Jofra comes back from the IPL and touch wood has played some cricket going into it, then he adds to an already strong attack, he said. The New Zealand series opener will be England's first Test match since an embarrassing 4-1 Ashes defeat. England, who remain under the leadership of captain Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum, a former New Zealand captain, were heavily criticised for an overly aggressive approach in Australia. They have hinted at a more balanced approach to Test cricket ahead of the upcoming three-match series, acknowledging the need to be less gung-ho in certain situations. Key said he wanted Emilio Gay, set to make his Test debut at Lord's in place of dropped opener Zak Crawley, and England's record run-scorer Joe Root to stay true to themselves. What we want is to have players to be able to go out there and play their best game, said Key. It doesn't mean there's one way of playing where you're looking to play shots. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The second Test takes place at the Oval from June 17, while the third and final match starts at Trent Bridge on June 25.
PBKS vs MI Match 58, IPL 2026: Preview, Predicted XIs, Player Tips & Match Prediction
PBKS vs MI Match 58 , Cricket Tips :Punjab Kings and Mumbai Indians are scheduled to face each other in match no. 58. This contest will kick off on Thursday at 7:30 PM IST at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Dharamsala. It has been a poor season for the five-time champion, Mumbai Indians. They have only managed to win three games out of 11. As a result, they have been eliminated from the playoff race. On the other hand, PBKS have also struggled in recent matches, losing their last four. Their qualification also depends on this game. Because if they lose, they can be out of the race. PBKS vs MI: Match Details Date : May 14, 2026 (Thursday) Time : 7:30 PM IST Venue : Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Dharamsala PBKS vs MI Live Streaming Details The live action of the PBKS vs MI game will be available on the Star Sports Networks in India. Fans can also watch the game through the Jio Hotstar app or website. PBKS vs MI Head-to-Head in IPL Total Matches : 35 PBKS : 18 MI : 17 No - Result : 00 PBKS vs MI: Ground Pitch Report The wicket in Dharamsala is fast and offers seam-friendly conditions. The fast bowlers will get good help, and there will be swing as well. This wicket has a green top, which helps the ball to move. However, the batting conditions will be slightly better in the second innings. PBKS vs MI Possible XIs PBKS : Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh (wk), Shreyas Iyer (c), Cooper Connolly, Suryansh Shedge, Marcus Stoinis, Marco Jansen, Shashank Singh, Ben Dwarshuis, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal MI : Ryan Rickelton (wk), Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav (c), Naman Dhir, Tilak Varma, Will Jacks, Corbin Bosch, Raj Bawa, Deepak Chahar, Jasprit Bumrah, AM Ghazanfar PBKS vs MI Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Priyansh Arya and Ryan Rickelton are two aggressive players to watch out for in this game. Probable Bowler Allah Ghazanfar has been a consistent bowler for MI and has taken the most wickets. For PBKS, Arshdeep Singh will have a key role on this wicket. Today Match Prediction : MI have been poor in both departments because of the bad form of their seniors. Hence, we predict Punjab Kings to win this game. PBKS vs MI Match 58, IPL 2026, Today 2026 Match, PBKS vs MI 2026 Prediction, PBKS vs MI Predicted XIs, Injury Update for PBKS vs MI Match Also Read: Live Cricket Score Disclaimer : The predictions or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.
Ex-India Pacers VRV Singh, Lakshmipathy Balaji Likely To Get Coaching Roles At BCCI's CoE
Nooshin Al Khadeer: Former India pacers VRV Singh and Lakshmipathy Balaji are among the names likely to get coaching positions at the Board of Control for Cricket in Indias (BCCI) Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru. The CoE has been without a fulltime fast bowling coach since Troy Cooleys departure late last year, following his achieving the superannuation age. The BCCI had explored the option of hiring another foreign expert and even held advanced discussions with Englands ace fast bowling coach Steffan Jones, but what happened afterwards is yet to be known, sources told IANS. IANS understands that the Indian coaches are now shortlisted to fill the vacancies for which the BCCI brought out advertisements last year. Once the paperwork is done, Singh, who previously had a stint under Cooley, and Balaji are likely to assume charge once the ongoing IPL season concludes on May 31. Apart from Singh and Balaji, P. Krishnakumar, who guided Jammu and Kashmir to a historic maiden Ranji Trophy triumph this year as the sides bowling coach, is also in line to be the third fast bowling coach at the CoE. Krishnakumar has been a key figure in J&Ks rise as a bowling line-up and nurtured the likes of Auqib Nabi, Sunil Kumar, and Yudhvir Singh. Yere Goud, the former Karnataka allrounder who has been active in the coaching circuit, is tipped to join the CoE as a batting coach. It is also understood that Sunetra Paranjpe, Nooshin Al Khadeer, and VR Vanitha are likely to get coaching roles at the CoE. Apart from Singh and Balaji, P. Krishnakumar, who guided Jammu and Kashmir to a historic maiden Ranji Trophy triumph this year as the sides bowling coach, is also in line to be the third fast bowling coach at the CoE. Krishnakumar has been a key figure in J&Ks rise as a bowling line-up and nurtured the likes of Auqib Nabi, Sunil Kumar, and Yudhvir Singh. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Others in line for fielding coach roles at CoE are Milap Mewada and Shabarish Mohan. It is yet to be known whether the ideal candidates for the performance analyst, head of education, and head of sports science and medical team vacancies have been finalised. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Kohlis Unbeaten 105 Powers RCB To Top Spot With Six-wicket Win Over KKR (ld)
Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International: Virat Kohli produced a vintage hundred and was unbeaten on 105 off 60 balls as he steered Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to a sixwicket victory over Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and reclaimed the top spot on the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 points table at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur on Wednesday. After Angkrish Raghuvanshis fluent 71 and Rinku Singhs unbeaten 49 powered Kolkata Knight Riders to 192/4, Kohli brought out a glorious, unbeaten century laced with 11 fours and three sixes at a strike-rate of 175 his ninth IPL ton and 10th overall in T20s, as RCB completed the chase with five balls to spare. With the majority of his shots coming through the leg-side, Kohli dished out a chasing masterclass to leave the Raipur crowd utterly delighted after rain delayed the start of the game by 75 minutes. Chasing 193, RCB began cautiously as debutant Saurabh Dubey conceded just two runs in the opening over. The tempo changed in the second over when Vaibhav Arora erred in line, and Kohli cashed in by hitting four boundaries, including a flick over square leg and a rasping cut. Jacob Bethell, too, opened up against Dubey with a six and two fours before being taken out by Kartik Tyagi via a caught-and-bowled dismissal. Kohli, however, continued to be unfazed, pulling Tyagi for six and riding his luck when Powell dropped him at cover. Devdutt Padikkal joined in with boundaries off Tyagi and Narine, and the pair added fluency to the chase through a 92-run stand for the second wicket. The partnership blossomed as Padikkal found gaps regularly and Kohli reached his fifty in 32 balls. But Tyagi broke the stand by dismissing Padikkal for 39 with an off-cutter. Rajat Patidar struck a six but was never in his elements after being hit on the head and soon fell to Narine, even as Kohli kept finding boundaries with authority. The equation was well under control, and Kohlis wrists produced a stunning towering six off Tyagi to bring him into the nineties. He raised his ninth IPL hundred with a single off Arora in the 19th over, acknowledging the applause with a simple raise of the bat. Though Tim David fell cheaply, Jitesh Sharma ensured there was no late drama. With three needed off the final over, he pulled Dubeys short ball for four to seal the win in a chase marked by intent and control, and never allowing the asking rate to climb. The victory lifted them back to the top of the points table, while ending KKRs fourmatch unbeaten run. Previously, on a pitch where the odd ball kept low, KKRs innings was anchored by Raghuvanshi, who hit seven fours and three sixes in his 46-ball knock coming at a strike-rate of 154.35. He stitched partnerships of 68 and 76 not out with Cameron Green (32) and Rinku, who hit three fours and two sixes in his unconquered 29-ball vigil. Raghuvanshi kept finding boundaries at regular intervals and ensured the scoreboard was ticking. Though Green was not at his fluent best, Rinkus finishing flourish lifted KKR past 190. RCB, meanwhile, were sloppy in the field with several misfields, and their bowling lacked bite. Though Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, and Rasikh Salam Dar picked a wicket each, none could stem the flow of runs consistently. Sent in to bat first, KKR lost Finn Allen early after Bhuvneshwar found his outside edge and was snapped by Jitesh Sharma in the third over. Ajinkya Rahane looked promising by hitting three boundaries and a six, but gave a top edge to Hazlewood off his own bowling for 19. Raghuvanshi then took charge, striking cleanly through the offside and over midwicket. He found an able partner in Green, who contributed 32 with three fours and a six before being castled by a skiddy delivery from Rasikh in the 13th over. Raghuvanshi reached his fourth fifty of the season in the 14th over in 32 balls, becoming the youngest KKR batter to record four 50plus scores in a single IPL edition. He continued to anchor the innings, mixing placement with power, even as Rinku, who was watchful initially, accelerated in the final overs. His electric running between the wickets with Raghuvanshi ensured KKR rotated the strike well. By the time the innings came to a close, where all KKR batters contributed, Raghuvanshi was run out attempting a second run off the last ball, finishing on 71, while Rinku remained unbeaten. But all of that fell flat in the face of a brilliant run-chase led by Kohli. Raghuvanshi reached his fourth fifty of the season in the 14th over in 32 balls, becoming the youngest KKR batter to record four 50plus scores in a single IPL edition. He continued to anchor the innings, mixing placement with power, even as Rinku, who was watchful initially, accelerated in the final overs. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Kolkata Knight Riders 192/4 in 20 overs (Angkrish Raghuvanshi 71, Rinku Singh 49 not out; Josh Hazlewood 1-35, Rasikh Salam 1-35) lost to Royal Challengers Bengaluru 194/4 in 19.1 overs (Virat Kohli 105 not out, Devdutt Padikkal 39; Kartik Tyagi 3-32, Sunil Narine 1-31) by six wickets Article Source: IANS
Kohli's ninth IPL hundred powers RCB to the top
Kohli's unbeaten 60-ball 105 was a vintage effort in a run-chase and halted KKR's four-match winning streak
IPL 2026: Kohlis Unbeaten 105 Powers RCB To Top Spot With Six-wicket Win Over KKR
Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International: Virat Kohli produced a vintage hundred and was unbeaten on 105 off 60 balls as he steered Royal Challengers Bengaluru to a sixwicket victory over Kolkata Knight Riders and reclaimed the top spot on the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 points table at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur on Wednesday. After Angkrish Raghuvanshis fluent 71 and Rinku Singhs unbeaten 49 powered Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to 192/4, Kohli brought out a glorious, unbeaten century laced with 11 fours and three sixes at a strike-rate of 175 his ninth Indian Premier League (IPL) ton and 10th overall in T20s, as RCB completed the chase with five balls to spare. With the majority of his shots coming through the leg-side, Kohli dished out a chasing masterclass to leave the Raipur crowd utterly delighted after rain delayed the start of the game by 75 minutes. Chasing 193, RCB began cautiously as debutant Saurabh Dubey conceded just two runs in the opening over. The tempo changed in the second over when Vaibhav Arora erred in line, and Kohli cashed in by hitting four boundaries, including a flick over square leg and a rasping cut. Jacob Bethell, too, opened up against Dubey with a six and two fours before being taken out by Kartik Tyagi via a caught-and-bowled dismissal. Kohli, however, continued unfazed, pulling Tyagi for six, and rode his luck when Powell dropped him at cover. Devdutt Padikkal joined in with boundaries off Tyagi and Narine, and the pair added fluency to the chase through a 92-run stand for the second wicket. The partnership blossomed as Padikkal found gaps regularly and Kohli reached his fifty in 32 balls. But Tyagi broke the stand by dismissing Padikkal for 39 with an off-cutter. Rajat Patidar struck a six but was never in his elements after being hit on the head and soon fell to Narine, even as Kohli kept finding boundaries with authority. The equation was well under control, and Kohlis wrists produced a stunning towering six off Tyagi to bring him into the nineties. He raised his ninth IPL hundred with a single off Arora in the 19th over, acknowledging the applause with a simple raise of the bat. Though Tim David fell cheaply, Jitesh Sharma ensured there was no late drama. With three needed off the final over, he pulled Dubeys short ball for four to seal the win in a chase marked by intent and control, and never allowing the asking rate to climb. The victory lifted them back to the top of the points table, while ending KKRs fourmatch unbeaten run. The equation was well under control, and Kohlis wrists produced a stunning towering six off Tyagi to bring him into the nineties. He raised his ninth IPL hundred with a single off Arora in the 19th over, acknowledging the applause with a simple raise of the bat. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Kolkata Knight Riders 192/4 in 20 overs (Angkrish Raghuvanshi 71, Rinku Singh 49 not out; Josh Hazlewood 1-35, Rasikh Salam 1-35) lost to Royal Challengers Bengaluru 194/4 in 19.1 overs (Virat Kohli 105 not out, Devdutt Padikkal 39; Kartik Tyagi 3-32, Sunil Narine 1-31) by six wickets Article Source: IANS
CSK's Jamie Overton returns home to get thigh injury assessed
Allrounder's injury the latest setback in an injury-ridden season for Chennai Super Kings
Pavely, Taylor star as Warwickshire swat aside Lancashire
Kate Cross puts in shift for home side but can't prevent defeat in rain-affected game
Sweet tastes success as maiden fifty sets up Hampshire victory
Ella McCaughan, Amanda-Jade Wellington play key roles to help see off Yorkshire
IPL 2026: Raghuvanshi Hits 71, Rinku Slams Unbeaten 49 As KKR Post 192/4 Against RCB
Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International: Angkrish Raghuvanshis fluent 71 and Rinku Singhs unbeaten 49 powered Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to 192/4 in their 20 overs against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in Match 57 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur on Wednesday. On a pitch where the odd ball kept low, KKRs innings was anchored by Raghuvanshi, who hit seven fours and three sixes in his 46-ball knock coming at a strike-rate of 154.35. He stitched partnerships of 68 and 76 not out with Cameron Green (32) and Rinku, who hit three fours and two sixes in his unconquered 29-ball vigil. Raghuvanshi kept finding boundaries at regular intervals and ensured the scoreboard was ticking. Though Green was not at his fluent best, Rinkus finishing flourish lifted KKR past 190. RCB, meanwhile, were sloppy in the field with several misfields, and their bowling lacked bite. Though Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, and Rasikh Salam Dar picked a wicket each, none could stem the flow of runs consistently. The chase will demand a disciplined effort from their batters if they are to overhaul the target. Sent in to bat first, KKR lost opener Finn Allen early after Bhuvneshwar Kumar found his outside edge and was snapped by Jitesh Sharma in the third over. Ajinkya Rahane looked promising by hitting three boundaries and a six, but gave a top edge to Hazlewood off his own bowling for 19. Raghuvanshi then took charge, striking cleanly through the offside and over midwicket. He found an able partner in Green, who contributed 32 with three fours and a six before being castled by a skiddy delivery from Rasikh in the 13th over. Raghuvanshi reached his fourth fifty of the season in the 14th over in 32 balls, becoming the youngest KKR batter to record four 50plus scores in a single IPL edition. He continued to anchor the innings, mixing placement with power, even as Rinku, who was watchful initially, accelerated in the final overs. His electric running between the wickets with Raghuvanshi ensured KKR rotated the strike well. By the time the innings came to a close, where all KKR batters contributed, Raghuvanshi was run out attempting a second run off the last ball, finishing on 71, while Rinku remained unbeaten, as KKR will now have a crack with the ball to get their fifth win on the trot. Raghuvanshi reached his fourth fifty of the season in the 14th over in 32 balls, becoming the youngest KKR batter to record four 50plus scores in a single IPL edition. He continued to anchor the innings, mixing placement with power, even as Rinku, who was watchful initially, accelerated in the final overs. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Kolkata Knight Riders 192/4 in 20 overs (Angkrish Raghuvanshi 71, Rinku Singh 49 not out; Josh Hazlewood 1-35, Rasikh Salam 1-35) against Royal Challengers Bengaluru Article Source: IANS
Punjab Kings Assistant Bowling Coach: Struggling to reignite their campaign after four successive defeats, last year's finalists, Punjab Kings Assistant Bowling Coach Trevor Gonsalves, emphasised that the team remains focused on the task at hand for their clash with the Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 in Dharamshala on Thursday. With three league matches remaining, Punjab Kings are hoping to return to winning ways against the Mumbai Indians in a critical fixture on Thursday, and Gonsalves said they have worked on the weak areas to ensure no mistakes are made in the next game. Gonsalves maintained that despite a few difficult games, there has been no change in the environment of the team and dressing room, with everybody having a positive outlook towards the remainder of the tournament. It is exactly as it was when we started. Nothing has changed at all in the dressing room. We are quite confident about it. Three games are a lot of games, it's not less, and we hope to do our best. Yes, there were some ups and downs. There were some places where we needed to iron it out; we've done that, and we will be back, he said regarding the team's mindset heading into the final stretch of the season. Addressing the teams fielding issues, Gonsalves acknowledged the impact of missed opportunities while highlighting the work being done in training to ensure it is not repeated. We have dropped, yes, I agree to it. There could be a lot of reasons, including the crowd behind, the lights, and everything. But at this elite level, yes, those catches need to be taken. There is no doubt that we have been dented by them. But we are on it. You can see the practice is on till late. We are working very hard on it, and hopefully we will set it right, he noted. Further speaking about the recent losses and how the team is planning to bounce back from them, the coach said, If you ask me personally, I would really say what has happened is not too bad, and it's not too good either. But yes, from here on, peaking would be the main key. And all big cricketers like Arshdeep, Yuzvendra Chahal, and other big guys wait for such platforms. This is where they will make a show of themselves and prove what we are. While speaking about the conditions on the ground for the upcoming game in Dharamshala, the coach noted that the toss and local conditions would play a significant role, as the wicket is changing due to the weather. If you have seen, the wicket looks different now and will look different tomorrow. It's very difficult to assess now what is going to happen. But yes, looking at the weather conditions, looking at the ground, the size of the ground, there are some things that we have discussed today that we need to get into playThe wicket conditions have a lot to play. But yes, with small ground and a lot of dew, bowling first is a good option, he noted. While speaking about the conditions on the ground for the upcoming game in Dharamshala, the coach noted that the toss and local conditions would play a significant role, as the wicket is changing due to the weather. Also Read: Live Cricket Score We are only concerned and worried about tomorrow's game and how we are moving forward in the cricketing part. Ricky is a thorough professional with all these parts. And he also knows who he is dealing with. The top elite cricketers are also very professional, and it's really great to see how he handles it. He doesn't beat upon it, he said. Article Source: IANS
Tammy Beaumont, Georgia Elwiss guide The Blaze to victory
Duo score 99 not out and 72 respectively against Somerset to keep their side top of the table
Rain rubs out England's second ODI vs New Zealand
Persistent showers force abandonment without a ball being bowled
England ready to go back to 'world-class' Robinson
Rob Key says Sussex captain has 'done what was required of him' after ending two-year spell on outer
Sarah Taylor Joins England Mens Test Setup For New Zealand Series
Sussex County Cricket Club: Former England wicketkeeper-batter Sarah Taylor is set to become the first woman to work with the England senior mens side after being appointed fielding coach for the upcoming Test series against New Zealand. Taylor, widely recognised as one of the best wicketkeepers ever, male or female, will serve as the short-term fielding coach during the home series while regular coach Carl Hopkinson is busy with the Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League (IPL). This role is another milestone in Taylors coaching career, which has grown through various positions in county and franchise cricket, including with Sussex County Cricket Club and Manchester Originals. She has also collaborated closely with the England Lions alongside former England all-rounder Andrew Flintoff during the winter. Rob Key, Englands managing director of mens cricket, confirmed the development while unveiling the squad for the Lords Test against New Zealand. He also praised Taylors behind-the-scenes influence. I just think she's one of the best in the business at what she does. She's been outstanding, and she's worked a lot with Andrew Flintoff and Ed Barney (performance director). They can't speak highly enough of her. So from what we can see, she's one of the best in the business, Key said. Taylors arrival comes at a critical moment for Englands red-ball team following a disappointing Ashes series in Australia, where poor fielding cost them dearly. The team dropped 11 catches during the series, and there was growing criticism over the decision to travel without a dedicated fielding coach. To address these issues, England reappointed Carl Hopkinson after the Ashes, along with bringing back bowling coach Troy Cooley. However, Hopkinsons commitments in the IPL gave Taylor the opportunity to step into the role for the upcoming New Zealand series. We've been thoroughly, unbelievably impressed with (Taylor) and the way that she goes about her business. Carl Hopkinson, as is the nature of the cricket world that we have at the moment, is working with the Mumbai Indians. He has a lot of stuff that he does for them, so we'll still use him at some point, just not for this series, Key stated. To address these issues, England reappointed Carl Hopkinson after the Ashes, along with bringing back bowling coach Troy Cooley. However, Hopkinsons commitments in the IPL gave Taylor the opportunity to step into the role for the upcoming New Zealand series. Also Read: Live Cricket Score As she prepares to enter the mens Test environment for the first time, her appointment marks a notable coaching milestone and highlights the growing overlap between mens and womens cricket expertise at the highest levels. Article Source: IANS
England Drop Zak Crawley After Ashes Disaster, Recall Ollie Robinson for New Zealand Tests
England have dropped struggling opening batsman Zak Crawley from their squad for next month's first Test against New Zealand at Lord's as they look to rebuild following a woeful 4-1 Ashes loss. Durham's Emilio Gay, one of three uncapped players in a 15-man squad including Hampshire fast bowler Sonny Baker and Somerset wicketkeeper-batsman James Rew, is set to replace Crawley as he is a specialist opener. Meanwhile paceman Ollie Robinson, following a two-year exile from England duty, is back and leg-spinner Rehan Ahmed has also been recalled. Crawley managed a mere 273 runs in 10 innings at 27.30 during England's dire 2025/26 tour of Australia and the 28-year-old has found runs hard to come by for Kent this season. This is the first time since captain Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum took charge of the Test team in 2022 that Crawley has been left out of a squad when available. England could field three debutants in their XI for the first of a three-Test series against New Zealand at Lord's starting on June 4. - England's new-ball spearhead? - But just as intriguing is the prospect of a recall for Robinson after a long spell in the international wilderness. The 32-year-old has a superb Test record, with 76 wickets at a miserly average of 22.92 in just 20 appearances. Robinson, however, has not played for England since February 2024, with doubts raised over the Sussex seamer's fitness and attitude. But with England in dire need of a new-ball spearhead following the various retirements of James Anderson, Stuart Broad and Chris Woakes, he now has a chance to revive his Test career. The in-form Gay, 26, is a county colleague of Stokes at Durham -- whose departing director of cricket Marcus North, the former Australia batsman, was named as England's new national selector on Wednesday. Gay, batting at number three but with long experience as an opener behind him, has scored 522 runs, including three centuries, at a huge average of 92 for his county this season. Rising star Rew, 22, looks set to be the reserve batsman and a back-up wicketkeeper to Jamie Smith. Ahmed, who became England's youngest men's Test cricketer aged 18 in Pakistan in 2022, is one of two specialist slow bowlers in a 15-man squad alongside Shoaib Bashir, unused during the Ashes. Occasional off-spinner Will Jacks, who featured in Australia, has been dropped along with Ollie Pope, who lost his place during the Ashes following a run of low scores. England managing director Rob Key said the squad was an exciting blend of proven international performers and strong county form. Emilio, James and Sonny have all earned their opportunities through consistent performances and have impressed us not only with their talent, but with the way they've gone about their cricket in high-pressure situations, added former England batsman Key. It's also great to welcome back players like Rehan, Matt and Ollie, who all bring different qualities and experience to the group. England squad: Also Read: Live Cricket Score Ben Stokes (capt), Rehan Ahmed, Gus Atkinson, Sonny Baker, Shoaib Bashir, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Ben Duckett, Matthew Fisher, Emilio Gay, James Rew (wkt), Ollie Robinson, Joe Root, Jamie Smith (wkt), Josh Tongue
RCB bowl vs KKR, bring in Venkatesh Iyer and Jacob Duffy
Venkatesh iyer will feature against his former side on Wednesday evening
Karnataka Open | Tyagi and Manish move into the last eight
Liam Dawson Ends First-class Career To Focus On White-ball Cricket
Hampshire County Cricket Club: Liam Dawson has brought the curtain down on an accomplished First-Class career, with the Hampshire and England all-rounder announcing his retirement from red-ball cricket in a move aimed at extending his white-ball future. The 36-year-old will continue to represent Hampshire County Cricket Club in the T20 Blast and the One-Day Cup, ending a First-Class journey that saw him become one of the countys most influential performers of the modern era. Dawson departs the Championship game after more than 200 appearances for Hampshire, having amassed over 10,000 runs and claimed upwards of 350 wickets across a career spanning nearly two decades. His consistency with both bat and ball also earned him four Test caps for England, including a memorable unbeaten 66 on debut against India. Confirming the decision in a statement released by Hampshire on Wednesday, Dawson said, Ive decided to retire from First-Class cricket. Its a decision that I havent taken lightly, but I feel for the benefit of prolonging my career in white-ball cricket, the time is right. Im extremely proud to have played over 200 games for Hampshire and have had some amazing memories with so many players over the years. Im fully committed to playing white-ball cricket for Hampshire and continuing the success weve had. To the fans and members who have turned out over the years, I cant thank you enough for your support. Hampshire will always be my home, and I look forward to playing in front of you all at Utilita Bowl very soon. Dawsons announcement comes less than two years after one of the most prolific phases of his career. Across the 2023 and 2024 County Championship seasons, the left-arm spinner scored 1,796 runs, registered six centuries and picked up 103 wickets at an average below 23, underlining his value as one of the finest all-rounders in the domestic game. His dominance in 2024 was reflected in a string of major honours. Dawson became the first purely domestic player since 2018 to win the PCA Mens Player of the Year award, while also collecting the PCA Mens Domestic Overall MVP and County Championship Player of the Year accolades. His performances were further recognised when Wisden named him among its Five Cricketers of the Year the first Hampshire player to receive the honour since Kevin Pietersen in 2006. Among Hampshire players this century, only Robin Smith, Jimmy Adams and James Vince have scored more First-Class runs than Dawson. His tally included 17 centuries and 54 half-centuries, with a career-best 171 arriving in a victory over Kent in Canterbury in 2022. Dawson also etched his name into Hampshire folklore with a rare all-round feat. Against Middlesex in 2023, he became the countys first player since CB Llewellyn in 1903 to score a century and take 10 wickets in the same match. Remarkably, he repeated the achievement against Lancashire a year later. Hampshire director of cricket Giles White paid tribute to Dawsons contribution to the club as he said, Liam has been an outstanding servant to Hampshire Cricket. To have played over 200 First Class games for this county speaks volumes about his dedication and quality. He leaves a huge hole in the team and will be hard to replace, especially for the remainder of this Championship season. He is the only Hampshire player of the modern era to represent the club in over 200 First-Class appearances, which underlines just how rare an achievement that is at this level. We support Liams decision and are delighted he remains fully committed to the white-ball game. He has been integral to the success weve built in that format. We have no doubt he will continue to be a match-winner for Hampshire for years to come. He remains a hugely important part of our plans. Hampshire director of cricket Giles White paid tribute to Dawsons contribution to the club as he said, Liam has been an outstanding servant to Hampshire Cricket. To have played over 200 First Class games for this county speaks volumes about his dedication and quality. He leaves a huge hole in the team and will be hard to replace, especially for the remainder of this Championship season. Also Read: Live Cricket Score While his First-Class career has now ended, Dawsons influence at Utilita Bowl is far from over, with Hampshire continuing to rely on one of their most experienced performers in the white-ball arena. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Fielding Gives You Confidence To Perform In Both Batting And Bowling, Says Anukul
Kolkata Knight Riders: Kolkata Knight Riders spin-bowling allrounder Anukul Roy has said the role of fielding in boosting confidence across both batting and bowling has been huge, as the three-time champions aim to keep themselves alive in the race to playoffs in IPL 2026. Roys good time in IPL 2026 continued when he took out Pathum Nissanka (50) and Tristan Stubbs (2) in the same over, while taking a brilliant catch of captain Axar Patel to play a vital hand in KKR getting their fourth straight win with an eight-wicket victory over Delhi Capitals last week. Fielding gives you confidence to perform, both in batting and bowling. If the fielding is good, you get a different kind of confidence from within while bowling. So for me, it is extremely important and really helps my performance, Roy said in a pre-game chat with the broadcasters, ahead of their clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. On sharing the spin bowling unit with Sunil Narine and Varun Chakaravarthy, Roy added, I get to learn a lot, things like what field positions to take in the Powerplay, how to bowl, how much variation to use, what kind of seam ball to bowl. I keep discussing all these things with Sunil Narine and Varun bhai. We also talk about how to bowl between the (715 overs) and how to use fielders, what kind of deliveries to bowl. We keep having these discussions among ourselves. On sharing the spin bowling unit with Sunil Narine and Varun Chakaravarthy, Roy added, I get to learn a lot, things like what field positions to take in the Powerplay, how to bowl, how much variation to use, what kind of seam ball to bowl. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Asked about Chakravarthys availability, especially with the wrist spinner seen limping while bowling in New Delhi, Roy said, I dont have an idea about that yet, but we will get to know after the toss, around toss time. Article Source: IANS
Sarah Taylor appointed as Men's Test fielding coach for New Zealand series
Former England women's wicketkeeper stands in for Carl Hopkinson after England's Ashes struggles
IPL 2026: Toss In RCBKKR Clash Set For 8:30 Pm, Play To Begin 15 Mins Later With No Overs Lost
Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International: The toss in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 clash between defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru and threetime winners Kolkata Knight Riders will now be held at 8:30 pm, with play set to begin at 8:45 pm at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium here on Wednesday. Despite heavy rain earlier in the evening, officials confirmed that no overs will be lost, especially with the cut-off time to lose overs not reached yet. Previously, persistent showers and a wet outfield had forced a delay in the toss and match start time. The entire ground was covered after a 30minute spell of rain began at 4:30 pm. A brief drizzle returned around 6:15 pm, and the ground was fully covered again as super soppers worked on the surface. At 6:35 pm, the rain intensified, accompanied by thunder and lightning. Though conditions eased five minutes before the scheduled toss time, onfield umpires Rohan Pandit and Nitin Menon, along with fourth umpire Kaushik Gandhi, inspected the ground as staff carefully removed covers laden with water. Frequent lightning strikes meant the delay stretched further before revised timings were announced closer to the pitch inspection time. The Raipur pitch has not been easy for batting, with bowlers expected to exploit the conditions, especially with some moisture due to rain now being a major factor. A brief drizzle returned around 6:15 pm, and the ground was fully covered again as super soppers worked on the surface. At 6:35 pm, the rain intensified, accompanied by thunder and lightning. Though conditions eased five minutes before the scheduled toss time, onfield umpires Rohan Pandit and Nitin Menon, along with fourth umpire Kaushik Gandhi, inspected the ground as staff carefully removed covers laden with water. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Meanwhile, the Ajinkya Rahane-captained KKR, unbeaten in their last four matches after a poor start to the competition, need a victory to continue their impressive turnaround and stay alive in the race to the playoffs. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Focus On Things I Can Do Instead Of Overthinking What Is Not Happening, Says Jitesh
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Royal Challengers Bengaluru wicketkeeperbatter Jitesh Sharma has said he is staying positive despite a lean run with the bat this season by focusing on his wicketkeeping, team feedback and intent, rather than overthinking what is not going his way. Jitesh has endured a disappointing time with the bat, scoring just 82 runs in the 11 matches so far. Some people see the glass half empty, some see it half full. Similarly, I understand that Im not scoring runs right now, but I focus on how much effort I can put into my keeping. Also, on how much feedback I can give the team or how much I can help the captain. I focus on the things I can do instead of overthinking the things that are not happening. I focus on whats going well, Jitesh said in a pre-game chat with the broadcasters. Jitesh has endured a disappointing time with the bat, scoring just 82 runs in the 11 matches so far. Some people see the glass half empty, some see it half full. Similarly, I understand that Im not scoring runs right now, but I focus on how much effort I can put into my keeping. Also Read: Live Cricket Score A win over Kolkata Knight Riders will put defending champions RCB firmly on course for entering the playoffs. Speaking about pitch conditions in Raipur, which will change due to rain and wet outfield, Jitesh said, Nobody can ever be 100 percent sure about how a wicket will play. As the game progresses, you have to keep adapting. Yes, I stay close to the wicket, but still you cant be completely sure. Your intent, however, should always be right, thats the key. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Confidence Always Helps You To Execute Better, Says Bhuvneshwar Kumar
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Royal Challengers Bengaluru veteran pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar said confidence is a factor which helps him in executing his plans better, which in turn helps him perform better in a long Indian Premier League (IPL) season. Bhuvneshwar is the seasons leading wicket-taker with 21 scalps in 11 games. Its very necessary when you do well in the previous matches for your confidence, and when you have confidence, I think I said it before as well, it always helps you to execute better. But of course, (bowling) is always there. That six with a bat, I think not just from that perspective of the match, but again when there are a few matches and situations come like this, I can feel that Ive done it before and I can do it again, Bhuvneshwar said in a pre-game chat with the broadcasters. On staying fresh for the playoffs, he explained, I think its very necessary how you prepare for that before the season, and then when you come into the season, the practice sessions that you want to do or you dont want to do,, it depends on your feel. I havent done many practice sessions since the tournament started. So I think thats one of the ways to keep myself fresh. And of course, there are physios and trainers who have their own ways of recovering and giving their plan. Asked about his approach as a bowler, especially when batters are making big runs, Bhuvneshwar said, Mix, I would say. Its the first experience and instinct. And of course, there are a few things that I would say are trends from the data. You dont have to really necessarily follow that. But when you know that theres something like that and that comes into the match, you can prepare for that as well. I havent done many practice sessions since the tournament started. So I think thats one of the ways to keep myself fresh. And of course, there are physios and trainers who have their own ways of recovering and giving their plan. Also Read: Live Cricket Score It wont be easy for him. But of course, if its going to be flat, it wont be easy for bowlers. And yes, there are a few plans against him, which we had. And like we know, hes a destructive batsman. Well look to get him out initially. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: KKRs Winning Streak Built On Collective Effort, Experience And Planning, Says Narine
Kolkata Knight Riders: Kolkata Knight Riders seasoned campaigner Sunil Narine has attributed the franchises fourmatch winning streak in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 to collective effort, experience, and careful planning. After being winless in their first six games, KKR have won four straight games to keep themselves in slight contention for the playoffs. I think its all 12 guys on the team who are getting up and trying to contribute in whatever way they can, trying to stick to their roles. And, obviously, when you win one and two, youre on a roll, so you continue doing that. So hopefully we can continue the same momentum. Its going to be tough beating RCB because they are playing good cricket, but I think its all about how you start, whether you bat or you bowl, said Narine in a pre-game chat with the broadcasters. Asked about his own bowling, where hes picked 10 games in nine matches, Narine said, The body is good. Even though IPL is long, you have a decent amount of breaks to kind of reflect and relax and just get your mind off cricket at times. So hopefully we can continue the same momentum. Its going to be tough beating RCB because they are playing good cricket, but I think its all about how you start, whether you bat or you bowl, said Narine in a pre-game chat with the broadcasters. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Its tough, but its more about reflecting on your game, what you can do, and focusing on what is best for you at that point in time. I love watching the game, so I watch probably nearly every single game, so you observe batsmen, and obviously you see who is in form, whos not out of form. So obviously you have to plan, but I think its more of the experience and watching the cricket live. Article Source: IANS
Liam Dawson retires from first-class cricket with immediate effect
Allrounder played four Tests for England alongside more than 200 appearances for his county
IPL 2026: Toss In RCB-KKR Clash Delayed Due To Rain And Wet Outfield In Raipur
Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh Stadium: The toss in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 clash between defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and three-time winners Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) has been delayed due to persistent rain and a wet outfield at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh Stadium in Raipur on Wednesday. At 4:30 pm, the entire ground was covered due to rain for about 30 minutes. A brief drizzle made an appearance around 6:15 pm. The square was uncovered for a while, but the ground was fully covered now, with super soppers moving around on the covers. But again at 6:35 pm, the rain became heavier, and was accompanied by thunder and lightning. Though rain stopped five minutes before the scheduled toss time, on-field umpires Rohan Pandit and Nitin Menon, along with fourth umpire Kaushik Gandhi, inspected conditions as ground staff members carefully peeled away covers with water collected on them. The delay, though, may go on as streaks of lightning were visible on a rather frequent basis, especially with the pitch inspection scheduled at 8:15 pm local time. The Raipur pitch has not been easy for batting, with bowlers expected to exploit the conditions. RCB entered the contest buoyed by a thrilling lastball win over the Mumbai Indians at the same venue. But again at 6:35 pm, the rain became heavier, and was accompanied by thunder and lightning. Though rain stopped five minutes before the scheduled toss time, on-field umpires Rohan Pandit and Nitin Menon, along with fourth umpire Kaushik Gandhi, inspected conditions as ground staff members carefully peeled away covers with water collected on them. Also Read: Live Cricket Score That would mean RCB would be at 15 points from 12 matches and maintain themselves in the top four standings. For KKR, it will be a bit of a blow as their equation would be 10 points from 11 matches, and they will need to win their remaining games in the home stretch at Eden Gardens to have a faint chance of entering the playoffs. Article Source: IANS
'We Need To Forget This Game As Quickly As We Can': Vettori After Loss Against GT
Chennai Super Kings: Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) head coach Daniel Vettori urged his players to quickly move on from their crushing 82-run defeat to the Gujarat Titans and focus on bringing fresh energy into their remaining IPL 2026 fixtures against the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). SRH were bowled out for just 86 in 14.5 overs while chasing 168 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Tuesday, as Kagiso Rabada and Jason Holder shared six wickets between them. Addressing the team in the dressing room after the defeat, Vettori said the immediate priority was to leave the performance behind and focus on preparation for the remaining league games. I think we've got two challenges moving forward. The first challenge is to forget this game as quickly as we can because it actually holds no relevance for the next two fixtures that we have on surfaces that we're very acclimated to, Vettori said in a video released by SRH on X. So, this performance happened today, and obviously there'll be some disappointment, but there's not much we can take out of it that actually propels us forward to the next game, he added. The former New Zealand captain also highlighted the difficulty of maintaining intensity during the latter stages of a long tournament and admitted the team looked mentally and physically drained in the field. And at the back end of these very long tournaments, we're not a roller coaster, but we've been on top a lot. We've had a couple of blips. It's hard to actually push yourself, Vettori observed. And I think today in the field, I saw a group that looked maybe a little tired, maybe a little bit off the ball, and whether that translated into our batting, who knows? he said. Vettori stressed that SRHs preparation and energy levels before the upcoming clash against CSK would be crucial. The only thing that I want or the coaches want or Paddy wants is that when we hit training, you're ready to go and you have an understanding of how you want to prepare, he stated. Because I think that will be a difference maker for us going into that game against Chennai, and then if we get it going there, we can take it on to the game against RCB as well, he added. The SRH coach also encouraged players to take responsibility for their preparation and mindset ahead of the decisive matches. So the ball's in everyone's court now to relax, rest up, and then when we turn up together in Chennai, what sort of energy can you bring? Vettori said. The SRH coach also encouraged players to take responsibility for their preparation and mindset ahead of the decisive matches. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Meanwhile, after this defeat, SRH have moved down to the third position in the points table with 14 points in 12 matches. They will next face in form CSK after a six day break before competing with defending champions RCB on May 22. Article Source: IANS
Record Demand As Womens T20 World Cup 2026 Ticket Sales Cross 1,45,000
National Cricket Performance Centre: The ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 in England and Wales became the highest-selling edition in the tournaments history with ticket sales already surpassing 1,45,000 with 30 days still to go for the opening match between England and Sri Lanka in Birmingham. This years ticket sales have surpassed the total fan attendance of 136,549 recorded across the entirety of the 2020 edition in Australia, highlighting the extraordinary momentum behind womens cricket and the growing global demand for the womens game, ICC said in a statement. The achievement marks a major milestone for the ICCs long-term commitment to accelerating the growth of womens cricket worldwide and reflects the increasing passion and engagement from supporters in the United Kingdom (UK) and from around the world. The ICC Womens T20 World Cup 2026 will feature the top 12 teams competing across the seven venues after playing warm-up matches to be held from 6-10 June at Cardiffs Sophia Gardens, Derby County Ground, and Loughborough University, home of the ECBs National Cricket Performance Centre. ICC general manager - events and corporate communications, Gaurav Saxena, said, The 2026 editionbecomingthe highest-sellingICC Womens T20 World Cup everisanother milestonefor the womens game. It not only highlights the incredible momentum behind womens cricket but also reflects the strong cultural pull of an ICC pinnacle event, the appeal for which is not limited to sports fans. This edition of the ICCWomens T20 World Cupis set to be our biggesttournament to date and is expected to smash attendance and viewership records in the UK and around the world. This milestone is a hugely exciting moment for everyone involved and has been almost a year in the making. The response from fans is a testament to the bold, creative and well-executed marketing efforts of both the ICC and the ECB in the run-up to the tournament, more of which are to follow over the next four weeks. We look forward to welcoming fans from across the globe to England and Wales for what promises to be the biggest and most exciting edition of the ICC Womens T20 World Cup. The response from fans is a testament to the bold, creative and well-executed marketing efforts of both the ICC and the ECB in the run-up to the tournament, more of which are to follow over the next four weeks. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Weve always believed this tournament has the potential to be the biggest womens cricket event in history, and the response from fans has been extraordinary. It reflects the growing profile of the womens game, the strength of the teams and players on show, and the appetite for world-class sporting events across England and Wales as we build towards an unforgettable summer in 2026. Article Source: IANS
Barbados Royals to be called Barbados Tridents again in the CPL
They will also return to Barbados' national colours, with the government of Barbados set to become a minority co-investor in the franchise
CSK sign allrounder Macneil Noronha as Ramakrishna Ghosh's replacement
Noronha was a key member of the Mangaluru Dragons side that lifted the Maharaja Trophy in 2025
ECB Confirms Marcus Norths Appointment As Mens National Selector
Durham County Cricket Club: The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has named former Australia batter Marcus North as England Mens National Selector, marking the end of his long-standing stint with Durham County Cricket Club. North arrives at the ECB after nearly eight years at Durham, where he held the role of Director of Cricket following his appointment in 2018. Over time, his responsibilities expanded to include oversight of both the mens and womens professional setups at the county. As part of his new assignment, the 45-year-old will be involved in selecting squads across the England mens pathway from the senior national side to the Lions and Young Lions teams. His remit will also include monitoring domestic cricket during the county season, assisting in decisions related to central contracts, and supporting long-term succession planning alongside the ECBs scouting structure. North will additionally work with the ECBs science and medical departments on matters concerning player fitness, workload balance, and scheduling management. Originally from Western Australia, North represented Australia in 21 Test matches and two ODIs during his international career. The left-handed batter also built a strong reputation on the county circuit, featuring for six different English counties across his playing days. During his tenure at Durham, North played a central role in the clubs rise both competitively and structurally, helping shape its professional environment while earning recognition across the domestic game. We were really pleased with the strength and depth of candidates throughout what was a thorough and rigorous process for the National Selector role. Marcus stood out through his knowledge of the domestic game, his experience across different environments, and the relationships he has built throughout county cricket over a long period of time. He has been heavily involved in the county game for many years, both as a player and more recently during eight successful years as Director of Cricket at Durham, where he has earned huge respect across the game. Marcus also brings an international pedigree from his time playing for Australia, and we believe his experience and understanding of the player pathway and high-performance environment will be a real asset to England Mens cricket, England Men's Managing Director Rob Key said on the appointment. We were really pleased with the strength and depth of candidates throughout what was a thorough and rigorous process for the National Selector role. Marcus stood out through his knowledge of the domestic game, his experience across different environments, and the relationships he has built throughout county cricket over a long period of time. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The opportunity to help shape the future of England Mens teams is one Im incredibly passionate about. Im excited to get started working closely with Rob, Brendon, Ben, Harry, and the wider performance team in building squads that can compete consistently and successfully across all formats. Ive thoroughly enjoyed my time at Durham and would like to thank Tim Bostock for handing me the opportunity back in 2018. I will be forever grateful for the support shown by the Board, players, staff, and supporters over the past eight years, North said. Article Source: IANS
Marcus North confirmed as England Men's new national selector
Durham's director of cricket takes over after lengthy search to replace outgoing Luke Wright
IPL 2026: Macneil Noronha Replaces Injured Ramakrishna Ghosh In CSK Squad
Colonel CK Nayudu Trophy: Five-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have named Karnataka batting allrounder Macneil Noronha as replacement for Ramakrishna Ghosh, who has been ruled out of the remainder of IPL 2026 due to a right foot injury sustained against Mumbai Indians on May 3. Macneil Noronha will join CSK for INR 30 lakh as a replacement for Ghosh, said the IPL in a statement on Wednesday. Noronha, 24, joins CSK with strong credentials from domestic cricket. He was recently honoured with the MA Chidambaram Trophy at the Naman awards this year for finishing as the highest rungetter in the 2024/25 Colonel CK Nayudu Trophy. His performances earned him a callup to the Karnataka squad for the 2025/26 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, where he featured in three matches, scoring 58 runs and picking a wicket. Noronha also impressed in the Maharaja Trophy last year, scoring 253 runs at a strikerate of 148.82 for the titlewinning Mangaluru Dragons. Apart from hitting 19 sixes in 13 games, Noronha contributed with the ball as well, taking 10 wickets with his off spin at an economy rate of 7.44, including figures of 2-25 in the final against Hubli Tigers. He replaces Ghosh, whose IPL debut ended in misfortune with a seasonending fracture suffered at Chepauk earlier this month. His performances earned him a callup to the Karnataka squad for the 2025/26 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, where he featured in three matches, scoring 58 runs and picking a wicket. Noronha also impressed in the Maharaja Trophy last year, scoring 253 runs at a strikerate of 148.82 for the titlewinning Mangaluru Dragons. Also Read: Live Cricket Score CSK have also been without talismanic wicketkeeper-batter MS Dhoni, who has been sidelined with a calf strain since the start of the season. Despite the setbacks, CSK are very much in contention for the playoffs via 12 in 11 games and are at fifth spot. CSK will look to boost their playoffs chances when they take on Lucknow Super Giants at the BRSABV Ekana Cricket Stadium on Friday evening. Article Source: IANS
From India Pacer to Minister: Ashok Dinda Begins New Innings as Bengal Sports Minister
The political change in West Bengal has a cricket connection also. Former India pacer Ashok Dinda emerged victorious in the Assembly elections again in Moyna, his birthplace (by 16,241 votes) after his maiden victory in 2021 (by 1260 votes). He donned the India cap in 13 ODIs and 9 T20Is with 12 and 17 wickets, respectively. He took at least one wicket in each of nine T20Is he played, with a career-best 4 for 19 coming in a handsome victory against Sri Lanka in Kandy in 2012. Ashok Dinda is yet to forget all his detractors, who had ridiculed him following an unceremonious ouster from the Bengal team just before the start of the 2019-20 Kanji Trophy. In recent times, he also served as one of the coaches in the Cricket Association of Bengals Vision Project but now has some added responsibility in the states sporting arena, as he has been appointed as the new sports minister of West Bengal. Ashok Dinda had joined politics after ending his playing career in 2021, ahead of the Assembly elections. Incidentally, on the same day, India cricketer Manoj Tiwary joined Trinamool Congress (TMC) and, after his win, was appointed West Bengal's New Sports Minister, although an active cricketer and captained Bengal in the Ranji Trophy. Now Ashok Dinda holds the same portfolio. West Bengal will have another cricketer as their Sports Minister as Manojs predecessor in the ministry was Laxmi Ratan Shukla, another familiar name in Indian cricket. In cricket, Ashok Dinda shall always be remembered as a forgotten star who deserved a Test cap. He was part of KKR in 2008 and played 78 IPL games for five different franchises, claiming 69 wickets at an expensive bowling average of 30+ and higher economy rates. After being with KKR between 2008 and 2010, he got a one-year stint at Delhi Daredevils in 2011 before switching to Pune Warriors India in 2012. Ashok Dinda stayed with that franchise until their dissolution in 2013. In 2014, he joined Royal Challengers Bangalore for a two-year stint and ended with the final two-year stretch with Rising Pune SuperGiant in 2016 and 2017. He remains one of the most successful fast bowlers in domestic red-ball cricket as he picked up 420 wickets in just 196 innings. In the Ranji Trophy, he was a stalwart for Bengal, grabbing 339 wickets. Among pacers, only R Vinay Kumar, Pankaj Singh, Basant Mohanty, Madan Lal and Ashish Winston Zaidi had more wickets than Dinda in the Ranji Trophy. His domestic show opened the door for white-ball internationals between 2009 and 2013, but Test cricket opportunity eluded him. Born on March 25, 1984 in Kolkata, Dinda had a powerful and complex bowling action and made his first-class debut in 2005. The right-arm speedster made his India debut in December 2009 in a T20I against Sri Lanka in Nagpur. He continued to play first-class cricket until 2019, featuring 116 of them with the last fixture in 2021. He also took 151 wickets in 98 List A games at an average of 28.50. In 2020, Ashok Dinda left Bengal for Goa but played only one season for his new team before retiring in February 2021. Incidentally, most of the cricketers joining politics recently have some Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) connection. Gautam Gambhir is the leader of the pack and is joined by Laxmi Ratan Shukla, Manoj Tiwary, Ashok Dinda and Yusuf Pathan. A very popular story related to Ashok Dinda is his encounter with Sachin Tendulkar in the Ranji Trophy final between Bengal and Mumbai in 2007. The bowlers in domestic cricket never thought of sledding the Master Blaster but the young Ashoke Dinda glared at Tendulkar after hitting him on the elbow. Deep Dasgupta, the captain of Bengal at the time, had already advised him, 'With Sachin, you just come and bowl' but Dinda had the habit that whenever he would beat the batter, he would just take 2-3 extra steps in his follow-throw and glare at him. Deep categorically told him again, 'Don't say anything to Sachin but Dinda didnt listen to his captain. He stared at Sachin after a few deliveries, and Sachin eventually scored a hundred (105). Mumbai won the match by 132 runs. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Now Ashok Dinda has a new challenge in front of him. I come from a sports background, not politics. Representing India was a matter of pride. But politics is also about serving people, living among them, and helping them. Its a blessing, a gift from God. Not everyone gets this opportunity. Many people have wealth, but they dont get the chance to serve. Helping someone get hospital care, supporting families who cant afford medicine, that is something truly meaningful, he says.
Pierre De Bruyn Named Netherlands Womens Cricket Team Coach, To Take Charge From Aug 1
KNCB High Performance Director Ryan: Former South Africa cricketer Pierre de Bruyn will take charge as the new coach of the Netherlands womens cricket team from August 1. He will take over from Neil MacRae, who returns to the Jersey mens side after the ICC Womens T20 World Cup takes place in England from June 12 to July 5. De Bruyn played professionally in the South African domestic circuit until 2010, before moving into coaching. He was head coach of English county side Leicestershire in 2016 and guided Namibias men to their first Mens T20 World Cup qualification in 2021. Most recently, he served as head coach of the Titans womens team in South Africa from April 2025. I am very excited to get started with the Dutch squad, a talented group that managed to qualify for the big stage which is a great achievement. It illustrates the willpower and potential of these players. I want to thank Dr Jacques Faul (CEO) and Titans Cricket for the support during my time at Titans Cricket and wish the team all the best for the future, said de Bruyn in a statement by Royal Dutch Cricket Association on Wednesday. Outgoing coach MacRae reflected on his tenure and wished de Bruyn good luck. It has been great to work with the Netherlands womens team, with qualification for the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup the culmination of two years of hard work and dedication by the players. We wish Pierre every success in continuing the development of the team as he leads them in the next phase of their journey. Netherlands qualified for the upcoming Womens T20 World Cup via a qualification tournament in Nepal earlier this year. They will face Bangladesh, India, Australia, South Africa and Pakistan in Group 1 clashes on June 14, 17, 20, 25 and 27, respectively. Outgoing coach MacRae reflected on his tenure and wished de Bruyn good luck. It has been great to work with the Netherlands womens team, with qualification for the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup the culmination of two years of hard work and dedication by the players. We wish Pierre every success in continuing the development of the team as he leads them in the next phase of their journey. Also Read: Live Cricket Score We thank him for his contribution and as we look to continue this momentum and progression, we are excited to have attracted Pierre as a top international coach with an impressive track record who we believe can take the team to the next level. Article Source: IANS
Gay, Rew, Robinson named for England's first Test against New Zealand
England confirm North as new selector, announce 15-man squad with seven changes from Ashes
'He Is Becoming An Accomplished Leader': Rayudu Praises Gill's Captaincy
Narendra Modi Stadium: Former India batter Ambati Rayudu praised Shubman Gill for his growing maturity as captain, saying the Gujarat Titans (GT) skipper now looks sorted and settled while leading the side in IPL 2026. Gills leadership once again came under the spotlight after the Gujarat Titans (GT) climbed to the top of the points table with a dominant 82-run victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. He looks so sorted and settled as a captain, compared to what we have seen him in the first season that he has led. So, he is now becoming an accomplished leader, slowly but steadily, he is really getting up there, Rayudu told ESPNCricinfo. Rayudu also reflected on discussions surrounding Gills handling of spin bowlers during his early days as captain, particularly during his stint leading India in Test cricket on the England tour. The parameter generally is how a captain handles spin, and that is something that was a point of discussion when he captained India in a couple of Test matches in England as well, he said. However, Rayudu believes Gill has adapted smartly to the Gujarat Titans current strengths by showing greater trust in the pace attack led by Kagiso Rabada, Mohammed Siraj, Jason Holder, and Prasidh Krishna. But apart from that, there have been occasions wherein he has shown greater faith in the faster bowlers than the spinners, and once you have the calibre of Rashid Khan, at times he has been under-bowled, Rayudu said. But having a line-up of five fast bowlers and if they are doing well and if they are successful, why do you want to unnecessarily disturb the pattern of play, he added. Rayudu further explained that Gills willingness to back his pacers instead of forcing spin into the attack reflects a growing tactical maturity. So, I think he is doing a pretty good job of, at times, not using the spinner can also be a good strategy, he said. Rayudu further explained that Gills willingness to back his pacers instead of forcing spin into the attack reflects a growing tactical maturity. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Earlier, half-centuries from Sai Sudharsan (61) and Washington Sundar (50) guided the Gujarat Titans to a competitive total on a challenging batting surface. Article Source: IANS
Indian Premier League: Former India bowling all-rounder Irfan Pathan has lauded veteran pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumars masterful control of his wrist position and epeatable action for maintaining his technical standards over an Indian Premier League (IPL) career spanning 16 years. Bhuvneshwar has been a standout performer for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). The swing king is currently leading the purple cap chart with 21 scalps in 11 games in the 2026 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Bhuvneshwar has an amazing and highly repeatable action. He has had a 16-year-long IPL career and hasn't changed his action one bit. When you have the same action for such a long period, you can hit the areas you want to target. At the same time, his wrist position and the way he manoeuvres it is masterful, with very little change in seam position, whether he is bowling the inswinger or moving it away, and all of it with so much control, Pathan said on JioStar. He produced a match-winning all-round display in Raipur, finishing with exceptional figures of 4-23 before later smashing a crucial six in the final over to help RCB complete a tense chase on the last ball. When a bowler is running in at a certain speed, you only get a fraction of a second to react, and he has the ability to land the ball exactly where he wants to with the right fields. Thats where experience comes into play, he added. Bhuvneshwar has taken 219 wickets in 201 IPL matches at an average of 26.17 and an economy rate of 7.67, including two five-wicket hauls and two four-wicket hauls, with his best bowling figures standing at 5/19. Last week, he played his 200th IPL match against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at the Ekana Cricket Stadium last week. When a bowler is running in at a certain speed, you only get a fraction of a second to react, and he has the ability to land the ball exactly where he wants to with the right fields. Thats where experience comes into play, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Only four other bowlers have taken 200-plus wickets in a T20 competition all in England's T20 Blast - Danny Briggs (268), Samit Patel (230), Chris Wood (210), and David Payne (210). Article Source: IANS
CSk Have Decent Chance To Be In Top 4; For RR A Lot Depends On Sooryavanshi's Performance: Chawla
Chennai Super Kings: Piyush Chawla reckoned that Chennai Super Kings have a decent chance to break into the top four as their three-match winning streak has given them the necessary momentum in the race for the playoffs. After starting the season with three straight defeats, the five-time champions successfully revitalised their campaign by winning three of their next five matches, eventually finding their peak form to secure three consecutive victories in their most recent outings. The Ruturaj Gaikwad-led side are currently sitting fifth in the points table with 12 points in 11 games, four points behind the leader Gujarat Titans. I feel Chennai have a decent chance. We talk a lot about momentum in T20 cricket, and they have that after winning their last three matches. They are playing some really good cricket. Their batters are doing the job, but it is the bowlers, Anshul Kamboj, the spin duo of Noor and Akeal Hosein, and Jamie Overton in the middle overs, who are making the difference, Chawla said on JioStar. In their last match against Lucknow Super Giants, for the first time since 2018 CSK had accomplished a chase in excess of 200. After LSG posted a total of 203/8, CSK, in reply, raced to 97 at the end of the powerplay, their second highest in the IPL, with Urvil Patel (23-ball 65) leading the way. Skipper Gaikwad scored a handy 42 as well. Shivam Dube (15* off 7 balls) and Prashant Veer (17* off 12 balls) applied the finishing touches as the Men in Yellow breezed past the target with four balls in hand. They are restricting teams to totals in the 180-200 range. A score of 200 has become the norm, but when you restrict teams to scores below that, the batters also have breathing space, and CSKs bowlers have managed to provide that of late, he added. Skipper Gaikwad scored a handy 42 as well. Shivam Dube (15* off 7 balls) and Prashant Veer (17* off 12 balls) applied the finishing touches as the Men in Yellow breezed past the target with four balls in hand. Also Read: Live Cricket Score RR are also in contention, but a lot will depend on how Vaibhav Suryavanshi plays in the next three matches. The rest of the players will also have to start making decisive contributions, something that has been missing so far, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
'Rabada Read Abhishek's Movement Perfectly, That Was High-quality Bowling': Pujara
Narendra Modi Stadium: Former India batter Cheteshwar Pujara praised Kagiso Rabada for his smart tactical adjustment against Abhishek Sharma, calling it 'high-quality bowling' after the Gujarat Titans (GT) commanding 82-run win over the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Rabada once again starred with the ball for the Gujarat Titans, finishing with figures of 3/28 in four overs as SRH were bowled out for just 86 while chasing 168. The South African pacer now has 21 wickets in IPL 2026 and continues to play a key role in GTs rise to the top of the points table. Abhishek Sharma tried to create room on that delivery where he got dismissed, which batters often do when the ball is quick and bouncing. But credit to Kagiso Rabada. He read Abhisheks movement, Pujara told Jio Hotstar. Originally, Rabada was bowling outside the fourth stump line. When Abhishek shuffled across early, Rabada adjusted his line. He followed the batter and cramped him for room. The result was an inside edge onto the stumps. That was high-quality bowling, he added. Rabada struck after Mohammed Siraj had already provided the ideal start by dismissing Travis Head for a duck in the opening over. The fast bowler then removed both Abhishek and Ishan Kishan to leave Hyderabad in deep trouble inside the powerplay. Pujara also pointed out how the Ahmedabad surface assisted the fast bowlers with additional bounce and pace. The ball also hit Abhisheks glove before taking the inside edge of his bat, which shows the ball bounced more than expected. There was a bit of extra zip off the wicket as well, Pujara said. Pujara also pointed out how the Ahmedabad surface assisted the fast bowlers with additional bounce and pace. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Earlier, composed half-centuries from Sai Sudharsan (61) and Washington Sundar (50) guided the Gujarat Titans to 168/5 in 20 overs, a total which proved to be too much for the visitors on a tough wicket. Article Source: IANS
'You Have To Acknowledge Nehra's Influence On GT Bowlers': Bangar
Narendra Modi Stadium: Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar believes that head coach Ashish Nehra deserves far more credit for transforming the Gujarat Titans (GT) into one of the most formidable bowling units in IPL 2026, saying the head coach consistently gets the best out of his fast bowlers. Bangars remarks came after the Gujarat Titans climbed to the top of the points table with a massive 82-run victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Tuesday. GTs pace attack once again starred, with Kagiso Rabada returning figures of 3-28 and Jason Holder claiming 3-20 as SRH were bowled out for just 86 while chasing 168. I think you have to acknowledge the influence of Ashish Nehra on the bowlers that play under him. There have been multiple bowlers like Siraj, who did play under him at the start of his career in 2017-18. At that time, he wasnt the Mohammed Siraj that he is today. But him enjoying this stint with GT, Kagiso Rabada as well, Bangar told ESPNcricinfo. Bangar also pointed to Rabadas resurgence this season under Nehras guidance. The South African pacer has been one of the standout bowlers of IPL 2026 with 21 wickets so far and played a major role in dismantling Hyderabads top order alongside Mohammed Siraj. I think you have to acknowledge the influence of Ashish Nehra on the bowlers that play under him. There have been multiple bowlers like Siraj, who did play under him at the start of his career in 2017-18. At that time, he wasnt the Mohammed Siraj that he is today. But him enjoying this stint with GT, Kagiso Rabada as well, Bangar told ESPNcricinfo. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Bangar further explained that Nehras philosophy revolves around maintaining disciplined Test-match lengths. I think his emphasis is on just trying to bowl those Test-match lengths. And he always says that. When we used to work together on broadcast as well, he used to emphasise that quite often. So clearly an influence, which Ashish doesnt get enough credit for, should be acknowledged. Because he does have that skill of getting the best out of his fast bowlers, he said. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: 'Rabada Has Become The Leader Of GT Pace Attack,' Says Karim
Narendra Modi Stadium: Former India wicketkeeper-batter Saba Karim lavished praise on Kagiso Rabada, calling him the leader of the pace attack after the South African spearheaded Gujarat Titans (GT) dominant 82-run victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in IPL 2026 at the Narendra Modi Stadium. Rabada continued his outstanding season with another impactful spell, returning figures of 3-28 in four overs as Gujarat bundled out Hyderabad for just 86 while defending 168/5. The fast bowler now has 21 wickets in IPL 2026 and remains one of the leading wicket-takers of the tournament. With the kind of form he is in, Rabada has become the leader of this GT pace attack. Once again, he stuck to his strengths brilliantly. He generated extra bounce off the surface and looked fiery throughout his spell, Karim told Jio Hotstar. The way he planned Abhishek Sharmas wicket was wonderful to watch. Even against Ishan Kishan, who looked solid whenever the ball was pitched in his zone, Rabada smartly kept the ball short and away from him to force the mistake. Overall, he sets the tone for the rest of the bowlers. He is the one who leads the bowling plans, and the others follow his lead, he added. Rabada played a crucial role in dismantling SRH's top order after Mohammed Siraj had provided the perfect start by dismissing Travis Head for a duck in a wicket-maiden opening over. Rabada then removed both Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan before dismissing Smaran Ravichandran to leave SRH struggling at 34/4 inside the powerplay. After Rabadas fiery spell, Jason Holder ensured there was no recovery for Hyderabad with figures of 3/20, while Prasidh Krishna picked up two wickets. Rabada played a crucial role in dismantling SRH's top order after Mohammed Siraj had provided the perfect start by dismissing Travis Head for a duck in a wicket-maiden opening over. Rabada then removed both Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan before dismissing Smaran Ravichandran to leave SRH struggling at 34/4 inside the powerplay. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With this win, the Gujarat Titans have come on top of the points table with 16 points in 12 matches. They will next face Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on May 16 as they look to seal their playoff birth. Article Source: IANS
'Winning Five Games On The Trot Shows Our Consistency As A Unit': Sundar
Narendra Modi Stadium: All-rounder Washington Sundar lauded the clarity and consistency within the team after Gujarat Titans (GT) won their fifth consecutive match in IPL 2026 after beating Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) by 82 runs on Tuesday. Having posted what initially appeared to be a below-par 168/5 on a difficult surface of Narendra Modi Stadium, Gujarat bowled SRH out for just 86 in 14.5 overs, with the pace attack exploiting the conditions brilliantly before the spinners finished the job. It means a lot. This season has been extremely competitive, with every team coming hard at us. To win five games on the trot speaks volumes about the consistency weve shown as a unit. At the same time, sticking to what has worked for us is also a challenge. You can sometimes lose rhythm by trying to do too many things, but I think weve done well to avoid that. A lot of credit has to go to the team for maintaining that clarity and consistency, Sundar told Jio Hotstar. Coming to bat after losing the toss, the Gujarat Titans suffered early blows and were 64-3 in 9.3 overs, but Sundar and Sai Sudharsan forged a 60-run partnership which helped the team reach 168 in 20 overs. Speaking about the partnership, Sundar revealed that the proper communication between the two helped them understand the situation and play the shots accordingly. Its always enjoyable batting with Sai because we constantly communicate in the middle. It was important for me to understand both the situation and the nature of the wicket, especially since it was doing a bit more than usual. Early on, I wasnt finding boundaries, while Sai was able to get them without taking many risks. That balance really helped both of us and allowed the partnership to settle in nicely, Sundar said. Despite GT coming on top in the points table with 16 points in 12 games, Sundar believes that it is important to stay in the present and focus on playing good cricket. Its always enjoyable batting with Sai because we constantly communicate in the middle. It was important for me to understand both the situation and the nature of the wicket, especially since it was doing a bit more than usual. Early on, I wasnt finding boundaries, while Sai was able to get them without taking many risks. That balance really helped both of us and allowed the partnership to settle in nicely, Sundar said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score After this win, Shubman Gill's side will next face Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on May 16 as they look to seal their playoff birth. Article Source: IANS
'Every Team Has Its Small Blips Once In A While', Says SRH Coach Vettori After Record Loss To GT
After Sai Sudharsan: Sunrisers Hyderabad head coach Daniel Vettori defended his batting unit despite suffering a record loss to Gujarat Titans after being folded for a mere 86, calling it a blip that every team suffers once in a while in the tournament. After Sai Sudharsan (61) and Washington Sundar (50) powered GT to 168/5. In reply, SRH collapsed to their lowest-ever IPL total of 86 in pursuit of 169, their biggest defeat by runs in the IPL. We knew we needed to get off to a good start, and that's what we weren't able to do. But I mean if they'd scored 200, then we would have known it would have been incredibly difficult. But I think the fact that it was 169, we thought we had a chance. But as always, you have to start well and we didn't, and that's what happens. And I don't put any blame on the batting unit. They've been exceptional this year. Every team throughout the IPL is going to have their small blips once in a while, and ours was tonight, Vettori said in a post-match presser. Kagiso Rabada and Jason Holder were our standout bowlers with three wickets each. Prasidh Skiddy Krishna contributed with two scalps, while Mohammed Siraj and Rashid Khan chipped in with one wicket apiece as GT stormed to the top of the points table after successfully defending the second-lowest total this season. And I don't put any blame on the batting unit. They've been exceptional this year. Every team throughout the IPL is going to have their small blips once in a while, and ours was tonight, Vettori said in a post-match presser. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The heavy defeat damages SRH's NRR and serves as a major wake-up call for their batting unit. Despite the loss, they remain in the thick of the playoff race but must bounce back quickly in their upcoming fixtures to secure a top-two finish. Article Source: IANS
Chris Rogers signs two-year extension with Victoria chasing an elusive Shield title
Victoria coach re-signs until the end of the 2027-28 season after leading his former state to three Shield finals in five seasons
Vettori: 'Every team is going to have small blips and ours was tonight'
There were some exceptional bowling plans, Sanjay Bangar says of the Sunrisers Hyderabad bowlers, who restricted Gujarat Titans to 168
Brown Misses Out As Hamilton, Harris Named In Australia's Molineux-led T20 WC Squad
Pacer Darcie Brown: Pacer Darcie Brown has been left out of T20 World Cup squad as Australia opted for inexperienced left-arm quick Lucy Hamilton. Australia have revealed a 15-player squad for the tournament starting June 12 in England, led by captain Sophie Molineux alongside deputies Ashleigh Gardner and Tahlia McGrath. The squad also featured seasoned campaigners such as Ellyse Perry, Beth Mooney, Ash Gardner. Hamilton, who had captained Australia at last years ICC U19 Womens T20 World Cup, is one of seven pace options in the Australian squad, alongside spearheads Megan Schutt and Kim Garth, and allrounders Annabel Sutherland, McGrath, Perry and Nicola Carey. Grace Harris, who also offers a bowling option with her off-spin, has made her return to the international fold after being left out of the T20I squad that travelled to the Caribbean in March, while Sutherland is also back, having been rested for that tour. Perry, who has featured in every edition of the tournament since 2009, stands on the verge of becoming the first player to feature in 50 Womens T20 World Cup matches. Nicola Carey will play her first T20 World Cup since 2020, having returned to the national earlier this year after three years outside of the national side. Alana King, who was left out of the T20I squad that played India in February, also featured in the squad after her stellar tour of the Caribbean. Keeper-batter Tahlia Wilson is included as the travelling reserve. She made her ODI debut against the West Indies in March when Mooney missed the opening one-dayer in St. Kitts but has yet to play a T20I. Australia are slotted in Group 1 of the T20 World Cup, alongside South Africa, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and the Netherlands. Keeper-batter Tahlia Wilson is included as the travelling reserve. She made her ODI debut against the West Indies in March when Mooney missed the opening one-dayer in St. Kitts but has yet to play a T20I. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Australia squad: Sophie Molineux (c), Nicola Carey, Ash Gardner, Kim Garth, Lucy Hamilton, Grace Harris, Alana King, Phoebe Litchfield, Tahlia McGrath, Beth Mooney, Ellyse Perry, Megan Schutt, Annabel Sutherland, Georgia Voll, Georgia Wareham. Travelling reserve: Tahlia Wilson Article Source: IANS
Nehra makes the plan, Gill makes the play - GT's 'philosophy' in full bloom
I think you have to acknowledge the influence of Ashish Nehra on the bowlers that play under him, Sanjay Bangar says of Gujarat Titans' Test-match-like plan of attack with the ball
New No. 2s after GT beat SRH: B Sai Sudharsan and Kagiso Rabada
Prasidh Krishna and Jason Holder also moved up the Purple Cap tables after their many wickets in the GT vs SRH game in IPL 2026 on Tuesday
Nahid Ranas 5-Wicket Burst Powers Bangladesh to Historic 104-Run Test Win Over Pakistan
Pace bowler Nahid Rana claimed five wickets as Bangladesh trumped Pakistan by 104 runs in a rain-hit first Test on Tuesday after a thrilling fifth day of batting collapses. Chasing 268 for victory in Dhaka, Pakistan were 119-3 before they fell to 163 all out in the final session with debutant Abdullah Fazal scoring a valiant 66. Bangladesh now hold a 1-0 lead in the two-match home series. SCORECARD The Test win was Bangladesh's first against Pakistan on home soil and their third overall. The 23-year-old Fazal put on 51 runs with Salman Agha, who made 26, to raise Pakistan's hopes of victory before Rana rattled the opposition with career-best figures of 5-40. Rana, 23, made an impact with his pace and reverse swing and his final spell of 4.5 overs got him four wickets for just 10 runs to turn the match on its head. Very happy -- proud of all the guys, the way we played, Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto said. We have been working hard the last few months and slowly we are getting better at Test cricket -- that's one thing we have always wanted to do. The victory also saw Shanto equal Mushfiqur Rahim's record of seven Test wins as Bangladesh captain, achieving the milestone in just 17 matches compared to Mushfiqur's 34. - Shanto's batting brilliance - Bangladesh came into the final day with a lead of 179 runs at 152-3 but a clutch of wickets made them falter despite Shanto's 87. Bangladesh declared their second innings on 240-9 to hand Pakistan a competitive target and a chance for their bowlers to make use of the deteriorating pitch. Taskin Ahmed took down opener Imam-ul-Haq for two and Mehidy Hasan Miraz bowled debutant and first-innings centurion Azan Awais for 15. Rana removed Pakistan captain Shan Masood for two before Fazal and Agha counter-attacked in their fourth-wicket partnership, but Bangladesh bowlers proved their mettle on home turf to secure victory in the final session of the day. Rana delivered the decisive blows. He had Saud Shakeel caught behind before producing the ball of the match -- a thunderous 147 kmph (91.3 mph) in-swinging yorker that bowled Mohammad Rizwan for 15. Rana was on a roll as he trapped Noman Ali lbw and then bounced out Shaheen Shah Afridi, with Mahmudul Hasan Joy taking a simple catch to complete a famous victory. Pakistan captain Masood proffered no excuses for his side's failure to seize the key moments in the match. In the first innings, with bat and ball, we needed to do better, he said. When you have the game in your hands you have to push the opposition away, but we failed to do that. Shanto stood out for his batting brilliance as he made 101 in the first innings to guide Bangladesh to 413. Pakistan responded with 386 in their first innings but conceded a slender lead after off-spinner Mehidy returned figures of 5-102. Rain played spoilsport on the third and fourth days of the Test with a few overs lost due to interruptions. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The second match will begin on Saturday in Sylhet.
Molineux fit, Hamilton, Harris named for T20 World Cup, Brown omitted
Molineux fit to lead the team with 19-year-old Hamilton included in the 15 at the expense of Brown after playing just one T20I, with Harris also returning to the squad
England eager to put nervy season start behind them
Seamer Lauren Bell relishes rare chance to influence a game with the bat
RCB vs KKR Match 57, IPL 2026: Preview, Predicted XIs, Player Tips & Match Prediction
RCB vs KKR Match 57 , Cricket Tips :Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Kolkata Knight Riders are scheduled to face each other in the upcoming contest of the Indian Premier League 2026. This contest will be held at Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium, Raipur, on Wednesday at 7:30 PM IST. RCB have a chance to make it to the playoffs. RCB are placed second on the points table with 14 points and two more points, which will push them through. On the other hand, KKR have found some ray of hope after winning four consecutive wins. But they are not in a situation to suffer a defeat, because they will be eliminated. RCB vs KKR: Match Details Date : May 13, 2026 (Wednesday) Time : 7:30 PM IST Venue : Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium, Raipur RCB vs KKR Live Streaming Details The live action of the RCB vs KKR clash will be available on the Star Sports Networks. Fans can also watch the game through the JioHotstar app or website. RCB vs KKR Head-to-Head in IPL Total Matches : 36 RCB : 15 KKR : 20 No - Result : 01 RCB vs KKR: Ground Pitch Report The wicket in Raipur has good assistance for the bowlers. Fast bowlers had good lateral movement in the last game, and spinners will get grip with the old ball. The toss will have a role because of the dew. Hence, winning the toss can be an advantage here. RCB vs KKR Possible XIs RCB : Virat Kohli, Jacob Bethell, Rajat Patidar (c), Devdutt Padikkal, Tim David, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Romario Shepherd, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, Rasikh Salam Dar KKR : Ajinkya Rahane (c), Finn Allen, Angkrish Raghuvanshi (wk), Cam Green, Rovman Powell, Manish Pandey, Rinku Singh, Sunil Narine, Kartik Tyagi, Vaibhav Arora, Varun Chakaravarthy RCB vs KKR Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Virat Kohli has two consecutive ducks, and he is expected to bounce back for RCB. For KKR, Finn Allen is the key batter, who can break the confidence of the opposition. Probable Bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar is in red-hot form and will be a big threat. For KKR, Sunil Narine has shown improved performances and will have a key role in this game. Today Match Prediction : KKR have won four games, but overall, RCB have been better across both departments. Hence, we predict Royal Challengers Bengaluru will win this contest. RCB vs KKR Match 57, IPL 2026, Today 2026 Match, RCB vs KKR 2026 Prediction, RCB vs KKR Predicted XIs, Injury Update for RCB vs KKR Match Also Read: Live Cricket Score Disclaimer : The predictions or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.
Indian Premier League: Gujarat Titans captain Shubman Gill said adaptability remained the cornerstone of his sides success after GT dismantled Sunrisers Hyderabad by 82 runs in a one-sided Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 contest at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Tuesday. Having posted what initially appeared to be a below-par 168/5 on a difficult surface, Gujarat bowled SRH out for just 86 in 14.5 overs, with the pace attack exploiting the conditions brilliantly before the spinners finished the job. Reflecting on the nature of the victory, Gill said the Titans had correctly assessed the conditions early in the evening and understood that anything around 170 would be highly competitive. Definitely, like you spoke at the toss. Teams batting first have done well, and it worked out for us pretty nicely. But I think we bowled very well. 170 on this kind of a wicket, we always knew it was going to be tricky. If we bowl well, we'll always be in the game, Gill said after the match. The GT skipper revealed that the dressing room discussions during the innings revolved around reaching the 160-170 range rather than chasing an unrealistic total on a demanding pitch. Yes, sir. We spoke about, if we get anywhere close to 160-170, I think it's gonna be. It won't be easy for them, especially with our bowling attack. So that was the chat in the middle, Gill said Gujarat appeared in some trouble midway through their innings before crucial contributions from Sai Sudharsan and Washington Sundar lifted them to a defendable total. Gill acknowledged the importance of that partnership while also praising his new-ball bowlers for dismantling SRHs explosive top order. Yeah, definitely. But also, I think the way Sai (Sudharsan) and Washi (Sundar) batted, getting us close to 170 at one point, it looked difficult to reach there. And also, the way we bowled in the Power-play, we have been bowling pretty well in the Power-play. So, kudos to both of our bowlers, he added. GTs approach this season, according to Gill, has been rooted less in playing a fixed brand of cricket and more in reading situations correctly something he believes separates his side from others in the competition. Honestly, it's all about still being consistent, still trying to be as ruthless as we can. And, you know, we play the kind of cricket, we are not the kind of team that play a particular style or brand of cricket. We want to be the team that sees the wicket and assesses the condition. If it's a batting first, 240 wickets, go for it. But it's also important to assess that the wicket is not that easy to get those 170-180 runs, that's better than getting 140-150, he stated. GTs approach this season, according to Gill, has been rooted less in playing a fixed brand of cricket and more in reading situations correctly something he believes separates his side from others in the competition. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Yeah, definitely. He's such an experienced campaigner and the kind of length he's been hitting, and he's been very relentless for us, bowling almost in every game, four overs on the trot. Not easy in this weather, but he's doing a terrific job for us, Gill concluded. Article Source: IANS
Shan Masood on Mirpur defeat: Our batters should have reassessed after tea
The Pakistan captain said the whole team would have to take responsibility for a third successive Test defeat to Bangladesh
Chatterji rescues Surrey to halt Essex winning run
Hosts slip to 150 for 7 chasing 228 before matchwinning eighth-wicket stand
Indian Premier League: Sunrisers Hyderabad captain Pat Cummins admitted his side may have missed a trick with the ball after Gujarat Titans exposed the difficult batting conditions far better in an emphatic 82-run win in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Tuesday. Defending a modest-looking 168, GT ripped through SRH for just 86, with their pacers relentlessly attacking hard lengths on a surface that offered steep assistance throughout the chase. Reflecting on the contrast between the two bowling performances, Cummins said SRH perhaps failed to persist enough with the same approach during GTs innings. Yeah, I mean, you always look at it. It looked like a pretty tough wicket once you kind of hit that back of the length, and they didn't really give us much to score. So, perhaps in our bowling innings, you kind of, you learn from that, you think maybe we could have held our lengths just a little bit longer, Cummins said after the defeat. SRH had walked off at the innings break believing the target was within reach after restricting GT to 168/5, but the chase unravelled almost immediately. Mohammed Siraj removed Travis Head for a duck in the opening over before Kagiso Rabada tore through the top order to leave Hyderabad in complete disarray. Cummins credited Gujarats attack for executing their plans flawlessly on a demanding surface. I feel they bowled really well in that second innings. I was pretty happy with it when we walked off at the start, but yeah, pretty tricky wicket. I think they made the most of it, their bowlers, they bowled really well. So, yeah, maybe try and look at ways to get through that spell, but, you know, they deserve a bit of credit, he said. The Australian skipper went a step further, describing the performance as elite-level T20 bowling as he said, But overall, you know, I thought that, that's as good as T20 bowling as you're going to see from them. Despite the collapse, Cummins refused to overreact to a rare off-night from SRHs usually explosive batting line-up. Our batting order's been fantastic. So I don't think we need to read it too far into today. I think all four of our top four have over 400 runs. So, the guys are going really well. This happens in T20 cricket, he stated. Despite the collapse, Cummins refused to overreact to a rare off-night from SRHs usually explosive batting line-up. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I think getting ahead of the count pretty early (is important). I think we won five or six out of the last seven. Gives you a bit of breathing room these last few games. So, yeah, we've still got two games yet to qualify. So again, going back to what got us those wins in the first place and yeah, putting this one behind us pretty quickly, Cummins mentioned. Article Source: IANS

