Cricket

IPL 2026: 'He's My New Favourite Player', Says Cummins On Sooryavanshi

Adelaide Ashes Test: Sunrisers Hyderabad captqin Pat Cummins labelled teenage sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi as his ew favourite player. He praised the 15-year-olds fearless style of play, even though Cummins led Sunrisers Hyderabad to victory in his return from injury during IPL 2026. I think hes my new favourite player, Cummins said after the match. He hits the ball so hard, its great to watch, its good fun. Youve got to be right on the money as a bowler because if youre not, its going a long way. Hes impressive, hes had a great start to his career and I like the way he plays, he takes the game on. Cummins, coming back from a back injury that disrupted his Ashes summer, faced a tough start when Suryavanshi hit his very first delivery for a six over mid-wicket. Giving up 11 runs in his opening over, it briefly seemed like another difficult night for bowlers in a tournament filled with high scores. However, the Australian fast bowler responded impressively. He finished with figures of 1-27, improving his lines by conceding just seven runs in his final two overs. He also delivered a perfect yorker to dismiss Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag, a moment that likely reassured Australias selectors after his long layoff Even as an opponent, Suryavanshi made a strong impression. The teenager scored a remarkable century off just 36 balls, having reached his fifty in only 15 deliveries. For Cummins, this match was a satisfying return after nearly 10 months of dealing with back issues. This period was only briefly interrupted by a six-wicket haul during the Adelaide Ashes Test. Im really happy. I was never quite sure how it would play out in the first game, he admitted. I pick it up better than I did 10 years ago. The IPLs fun. You always have to change the fields and use the bowlers. The batters constantly make you think. So, I enjoyed it; it felt pretty natural. His comeback also took place during an IPL season that has been tough for bowlers, with high-scoring games becoming common. Cummins took this challenge in stride, even joking about it. I guess you just work on your batting, he said with a laugh. Its a good challenge. You might have a bad couple of overs, but if you come back and bowl a really good death over, that can win the match. I actually think it somewhat takes the pressure off us bowlers, knowing our batting lineup can chase down whatever. The wickets might be flat, but its only 20 overs; its not a Test match that lasts five days. So, Im okay with that, a maximum of four overs. It is what it is. We build our team to focus on strong batting, and as bowlers, its our job to keep the runs down. The scores look a bit different than a few years ago, but the idea remains the same. I guess you just work on your batting, he said with a laugh. Its a good challenge. You might have a bad couple of overs, but if you come back and bowl a really good death over, that can win the match. I actually think it somewhat takes the pressure off us bowlers, knowing our batting lineup can chase down whatever. Also Read: Live Cricket Score In the chase for 229 runs, Travis Head fell early after being outplayed by Jofra Archer. However, Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan led Sunrisers Hyderabad to a vital win, moving them to third on the points table. Article Source: IANS

4th WT20I: Deepti Sharmas All-round Brilliance Helps India Clinch 14-run Win Over SA

Deepti Sharma: India rode on an all-round masterclass from Deepti Sharma to register a 14-run win over the South Africa in the fourth Women's T20I in Johannesburg on Sunday. While the hosts still hold an unassailable 3-1 lead in the five-match series, the Women in Blue managed to avoid a whitewash Deepti delivered a match-winning spell of 5/19 after contributing an unbeaten 36 with the bat, earning the Player of the Match honours. Earlier, useful knocks from Jemimah Rodrigues (43) and Sharma powered India to a competitive 185/5 in 20 overs. Opting to bowl first after winning the toss, South Africa struck early through Eliz-Mari Marx, who removed Shafali Verma for 9. Tumi Sekhukhune then dismissed Anushka Sharma (27) towards the end of the powerplay, leaving India at 47/2. India rebuilt through Rodrigues and skipper Harmanpreet Kaur (22), who stitched a 55-run stand to take the visitors past the 100-run mark in the 11th over. The partnership was eventually broken by Kayla Reyneke, who dismissed Rodrigues (43). Marx then trapped Bharti Fulmali lbw for 2, while Reyneke removed Kaur soon after, reducing India to 122/5 in 14 overs. However, Deepti and Richa Ghosh (34*) ensured a strong finish with an unbeaten 65-run stand for the sixth wicket, guiding India to 185/5. Chasing 186, South Africa got off to a brisk start through Laura Wolvaardt (18) and Sune Luus (40), racing to 32 without loss in just three overs. Kranti Gaud provided the breakthrough by dismissing the Proteas skipper as the visitors took a sigh of relief. Luus and Tazmin Brits (30) added 44 runs for the second wicket before Deepti struck to remove the former in the ninth over. Thereafter, wickets fell at regular intervals as South Africa struggled to keep pace with the rising required rate. Deepti led the charge with the ball, while Shree Charani, Kashvee Gautam and Shafali chipped in with a wicket each to restrict the hosts to 171/9. Marxs unbeaten 21 provided some late resistance but proved insufficient and India clinched the win. Luus and Tazmin Brits (30) added 44 runs for the second wicket before Deepti struck to remove the former in the ninth over. Thereafter, wickets fell at regular intervals as South Africa struggled to keep pace with the rising required rate. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: India-W 185/5 in 20 overs (Jemimah Rodrigues 43, Deepti Sharma 36; Kayla Reyneke 2-10, Eloz-mari Marx 2-28) beat South Africa-W 171/9 in 20 overs (Sune Luus 40, Tazmin Brits 30; Deepti Sharma 5-19, Shree Charani 1-28) by 14 runs. Article Source: IANS

Sooryavanshi in India colours? Brathwaite, Dasgupta opt for 'best of both worlds' strategy

ESPNcricinfo's experts feel giving youngster time alongside India internationals - without rushing him into an India debut - is the best way forward

Brathwaite pulls up DC's powerplay bowling, Dasgupta all praise for PBKS openers

PBKS went on to score 116 in the powerplay, bringing the required run-rate down to just 10.50 per over after overs in the chase

Orange Cap race: Abhishek, Sooryavanshi, Rahul take top three spots

The Orange Cap was worn by three different batters across Saturday, before eventually settling on the SRH opener's head

Zaman's the man as Qalandars fell Zalmi to keep play-off hopes alive

Bracewell's 83 in vain for Peshawar as qualification goes down to the wire

IPL 2026: Lungi Ngidi Gets Discharged, Returns To Team Hotel

Max Super Speciality Hospital: Delhi Capitals pacer Lungi Ngidi has shown encouraging signs of recovery after being discharged from hospital and returning to the Delhi Capitals team hotel in New Delhi, with sources indicating that the pacer is doing well and will continue to be monitored closely by the franchises medical staff. Lungi Ngidi is doing well and has now returned to the DC team hotel in New Delhi. Him being sent back to the hotel after being discharged from the hospital is a positive indication of his recovery, and the franchise medical staff will continue to take good care of him, sources told IANS. In the third over of Punjab Kings chase, Ngidi fell backwards while trying to catch Priyansh Arya at mid-off, banging his head hard into the turf. He clutched his head immediately and lay on the ground as medical staff rushed in. Play was halted for 15 minutes before Ngidi was stretchered into an ambulance, amidst players, coaches and medical staff having tense expressions. In a swift and coordinated effort, the Delhi Traffic Police facilitated a green corridor that enabled Ngidi's movement from the stadium to BLK-Max Super Speciality Hospital, located near Rajendra Nagar Metro Station, in just 11 minutes. A stretcher was brought out as the crowd fell silent, sensing the seriousness of the situation. Ngidis teammates David Miller and Tristan Stubbs looked visibly shaken, while DC coach Hemang Badani gestured for a neck brace to be applied to him. In a swift and coordinated effort, the Delhi Traffic Police facilitated a green corridor that enabled Ngidi's movement from the stadium to BLK-Max Super Speciality Hospital, located near Rajendra Nagar Metro Station, in just 11 minutes. Also Read: Live Cricket Score A neck brace was slid under his head before he was strapped onto the stretcher and then taken off the field in an ambulance. Ngidi was replaced in DCs playing eleven by leg-spin bowling all-rounder Vipraj Nigam, who came in as a concussion substitute. Article Source: IANS

Dom Sibley steadies Surrey after Essex post 409

Pope continues solid form with half-century as hosts hit back with bat

Sooryavanshi ton in vain as SRH raze a 229 chase

Kishan and Abhishek hit fifties as they welcomed their returning captain Pat Cummins with a win

Clarke, Duckett resist for Notts as Warwickshire tighten grip

Battling half-centuries still leave hosts trailing by 195 runs at Trent Bridge

IPL 2026: Ishan Kishans Explosive 74 Guides SRH To Five-wicket Win Over RR

Indian Premier League: Jaipur, April 25 (IANS Vice-captain Ishan Kishan played a brilliant knock of 74 runs as Sunrisers Hyderabad chased down 229 runs target in 18.3 overs and registered a dominant five-wicket win against Rajasthan Royals (RR) in the 36th match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium on Saturday. Earlier, 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi smashed a brilliant century, followed by a half-century by Dhruv Jurel as the Rajasthan Royals posted 228/6 in 20 overs. Chasing a massive target, Sunrisers Hyderabad had a shaky start as opener Travis Head was dismissed in the first over. He failed to make use of an early chance after being dropped by Dhruv Jurel off the first ball of Jofra Archers over, and scored just six off five balls. However, the pressure didnt last long as Nandre Burgers next over released it, conceding 10 runs with a wide and a boundary. SRH vice-captain Ishan Kishan then counterattacked brilliantly, taking on Archer with three boundaries in the third over. Abhishek Sharma joined the charge, hitting three fours off Burger in the following over. Abhishek also got a lifeline in the fifth over when Ravindra Jadeja dropped a simple catch. Kishan made full use of the momentum, smashing 19 runs in the final over of the powerplay as SRH raced to 89 runs in six overs. Both batters brought up their fifties quickly, Abhishek off 24 balls and Kishan off 25,putting RR bowlers under immense pressure. Their 132-run partnership was finally broken on the last ball of the 10th over when Archer took a fine catch to dismiss Abhishek for 57 off 29 balls. Kishan continued his aggressive batting alongside Heinrich Klaasen, keeping SRH firmly in control. He eventually fell for a match-winning 74 off 31 balls, edging a short ball from Archer. After his dismissal, Nitish Kumar Reddy and Klaasen steadied the chase with smart running. Klaasen later hit a big six in the 17th over, with Nitish also clearing the ropes. Nitish scored 36 off 18 before getting out, while Klaasen made 29 off 24. Salil Arora sealed the chase with a six as SRH reached the target with nine balls to spare. Rajasthan Royals made a blazing start after being asked to bat first, led by young opener Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who dominated from the outset. He smashed four sixes in the opening over off Praful Hinge, collecting 25 runs and setting the tone. The momentum continued as Sooryavanshi and Yashasvi Jaiswal hit a six each off Pat Cummins in the next over. Sunrisers Hyderabad got an early breakthrough when Eshan Malinga dismissed Jaiswal for 10, but RR kept up the scoring rate. Sooryavanshi brought up a rapid half-century in just 15 balls as RR reached 73/1 at the end of the powerplay. He then built a strong partnership with Dhruv Jurel, who played a composed yet impactful knock. Jurel accelerated in the middle overs, including a 101-metre six, and reached his fifty before falling to Nitish Kumar Reddy for 51 off 25 balls. Sooryavanshi continued his aggressive approach and raced to a stunning century in just 36 balls, eventually scoring 103 off 37 deliveries before being dismissed. RR lost Riyan Parag cheaply, but Donovan Ferreiras quick 33 off 16 balls ensured a strong finish, with Shimron Hetmyer adding 11 runs. He then built a strong partnership with Dhruv Jurel, who played a composed yet impactful knock. Jurel accelerated in the middle overs, including a 101-metre six, and reached his fifty before falling to Nitish Kumar Reddy for 51 off 25 balls. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: Rajasthan Royals 228/6 in 20 overs (Vaibhav Sooryavanshi 103, Dhruv Jurel 51; Donovan Ferreira 33; Eshan Malinga 2-38, Nitish Kumar Reddy 1-20) lost to Sunrisers Hyderabad 229 in 18.3 overs (Ishan Kishan 74, Abhishek Sharma 57; Jofra Archer 2-34, Brijesh Sharma 2-44) by five wickets. Article Source: IANS

Lancashire in the ascendancy despite Matthew Potts' dogged fifty

A final wicket stand of 78 between Potts and Callum Parkinson helped Durham avoid the follow-on

D'Oliveira leads Worcestershire run-fest as Kent struggle again

Visitors toil in the field despite Milnes' four-for as they brace for tough third innings

Weatherald steers Leicestershire after Crane's pain on 99

Result still feasible despite just four wickets on second day

IPL 2026: Chahal Credits Iyers Positivity, Arya And Prabhsimran For Fearless Start In Record Chase

Arun Jaitley Stadium: Punjab Kings leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal said the teams record chase against Delhi Capitals was built on the fearless batting of openers Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh, while praising captain Shreyas Iyers positivity aiding them in hunting down 265 with seven balls to spare. At the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Prabhsimran Singh top-scored with 76, as he and Priyansh Arya hit 116 runs in power-play. Iyer then came in to smash a composed 71 not out to ensure PBKS maintained their unbeaten run in the competition. Definitely, we are playing well. Every match we are playing like we always forget about the past. We are playing one match at a time. Definitely, everyone is doing well. Still, we have to play seven more matches. So, we are focused on that only. Prabhsimran and Priyansh gave us the momentum needed in the first 6 overs to chase such a big total. This helped our batters in the middle overs and put the bowlers under pressure. It will be hard for any team to face our batting line-up, Chahal said in the post-match press conference. On the mindset in the dressing room before the chase began, Chahal revealed, We accepted the total and we were all feeling very positive before the innings. We know the quality we possess with the bat. It was a batting friendly wicket. We needed an excellent start if we wanted to chase this total, and we got just that and more from Prabhsimran and Priyansh. After the first 6 overs, we knew we were in the driving seat. Chahal also pointed to the influence of Ricky Ponting on Prabhsimrans development since last year. Ricky has had a massive influence on him. I've faced him in the nets and it is really difficult to bowl to him. People take names of Klaasen and Pooran, but especially in the powerplay because of his fearless batting. Before the innings, he was thinking: if they can score 264, why can't we do the same. The performances you see today are the result of the hard work he has put into his batting over the past few years. I am happy that he is on my team so that I dont have to bowl to him in a competitive setting. The 35-year-old spinner also spoke about the challenges of dealing with the impact sub rule. I can understand why dealing with the impact sub rule can be a bit challenging, but you simply have to adapt because that is what the tournament requires. This is the direction that the format is headed in and we have to find solutions because we cannot change it. Today, it was even more challenging than usual because of how small the ground is. Since IPL 2025, PBKS have been on a roll as a line-up and Chahal explained how the messages of positivity from Iyer have rejuvenated the side. I think from last year, we are the runners-up. When we came to the camp last year, everyone is talking about the positive things only. Before the main camp, we would say that we don't have to think too much. Shreyas had said one thing that no matter what, everyone will think positively, there is no problem, no one will even think once in their mind that this can be done or not. When the environment is so good and positive thoughts are going on, that thing happens and the way the team plays, especially I want to give credit to Prabh and Priyansh. So whenever you chase 220 or even 200+, the way you bat in 6 overs, that becomes a momentum. In middle overs, there is no pressure and today it was 6 over 116 and then the pressure comes on the bowlers because it is a small ground and it is not that easy to bowl here. According to our batting line-up, sometimes it is hard to bowl. On Iyer the bowling captain, Chahal said, I don't think there is much pressure because I think he is a bowler's captain. He talks a lot. He gives us an idea of what our planning is. We adjust our field accordingly. But there is nothing much from his side because he knows that we have to bowl 4 overs. We get complete confidence. From last season till now, we didn't feel that there is any pressure from the captain. Even if we feel bad, we talk about only positive things. So whenever you chase 220 or even 200+, the way you bat in 6 overs, that becomes a momentum. In middle overs, there is no pressure and today it was 6 over 116 and then the pressure comes on the bowlers because it is a small ground and it is not that easy to bowl here. According to our batting line-up, sometimes it is hard to bowl. Also Read: Live Cricket Score It's all about confidence. What kind of mindset does he have? He is a very positive guy. Seriously, I am telling you. We never had a negative conversation, especially when we had to chase 265 here. Even in the dressing room, we never had a negative conversation. He told us to chin up and we are chasing this. Article Source: IANS

Finlay Bean century leads Yorkshire response to Sussex's 502

IPL 2026: If We Drop Catches, We Cannot Defend, Need To Improve Fielding And Bowling, Says Rao

Cricket Venugopal Rao: Delhi Capitals (DC) Director of Cricket Venugopal Rao admitted that dropped catches and poor bowling cost his side dearly in their high-scoring six-wicket defeat to Punjab Kings in IPL 2026. At the same time, he praised KL Rahuls unbeaten 152, while stressing on the need to adapt better in future matches. At the Arun Jaitley Stadium, DC posted 264/2, but Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh hitting 116 runs in the powerplay along with captain Shreyas Iyer hitting a composed 71 not out off 36 balls helped PBKS chase down 265 with seven balls to spare. Apart from giving Prabhsimran a life early on, Iyer was also given reprieves twice by Karun Nair in a span of five balls at the fag end, which also played a big part in DC suffering its fourth IPL defeat. Yes, I can say that not 2, we dropped almost 6 catches today. See, when you are dropping batters at a crucial time, I do not think we will win these kinds of matches. Chances to players like Prabhsimran, Priyansh Arya and Shreyas, we need to take those. If we drop catches, we cannot defend, Rao said at the post-match press conference. Reflecting on the failed defense, Rao first credited KL for taking the side to a gigantic total. See, after scoring and putting a target of 264, still we could not defend. First of all, credit goes to KL, the way he handled it. Nobody knows how the pitch behaved, but he kept on striking the ball well. The way he played till the last over, hats off. He continued his form. More importantly, in this format, you cannot relax. He took responsibility as a senior player and you saw the difference this year in what he can bring. I am happy for him. We could not get the win, but we will come back strong in the next match. On areas of improvement, especially DC set to face Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Monday, Rao said, We will see. Next game when we come, we will answer. There are a lot of positives. But the areas to improve are powerplay bowling and catching. He continued his form. More importantly, in this format, you cannot relax. He took responsibility as a senior player and you saw the difference this year in what he can bring. I am happy for him. We could not get the win, but we will come back strong in the next match. Also Read: Live Cricket Score On Ranji Trophys leading wicket-taker Auqib Nabi yet to leave an impact in the IPL, Rao remarked, Auqib Nabi did well in red-ball cricket. This is his first IPL, it happens to everyone. He will gain experience. We need to back him. It is difficult to get fast bowlers in India and he has done well. He will learn. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: DCs Venugopal Rao Says Ngidi Injury not Serious, Chahal Hopes For Quick Recovery

Cricket Venugopal Rao: Delhi Capitals (DC) Director of Cricket Venugopal Rao said pacer Lungi Ngidis head injury sustained during the IPL clash against Punjab Kings was not serious, even as the South African was taken to Max Hospital in Karol Bagh for tests after being taken off the field in an ambulance. In the third over of Punjab Kings chase, Ngidi fell backwards while trying to catch Priyansh Arya at mid-off, banging his head hard into the turf. He clutched his head immediately and lay on the ground as medical staff rushed in. Play was halted for 15 minutes before Ngidi was stretchered into an ambulance, amidst players, coaches and medical staff having tense expressions. Still, I think it is not serious. He is still in the hospital. We will update, but nothing serious, Rao said after the game ended. On the confusion around concussion substitution, where Dushmantha Chameera was named first and later replaced by Vipraj Nigam, Rao clarified, Only four overseas players are allowed. There is a rule. We cannot take a fifth overseas player. Simple. He stressed that player safety remained paramount, even as Ngidis absence meant DC couldnt defend 264/2. First of all, player safety is always important. Whatever happens, we play this game, but safety comes first. When we see this kind of scoreboard, we missed his 24 balls, four overs, it makes a difference. We hope Lungi Ngidi recovers fast and comes back. I cannot comment on more right now. Punjab Kings leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal also expressed concern and hoped for a speedy recovery for Ngidi. That time I was sitting upstairs. Definitely, it feels bad if someone has an injury, especially, head injuries are always very dangerous. Hopefully, he will get well soon because even yesterday, I think, a net bowler got hit by a ball and was taken to hospital. So, whenever these things happen, obviously, everyone feels bad. We just want him to get well soon and come back to the ground, Chahal said. Punjab Kings leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal also expressed concern and hoped for a speedy recovery for Ngidi. That time I was sitting upstairs. Definitely, it feels bad if someone has an injury, especially, head injuries are always very dangerous. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Delhi Capitals had posted 264/2 on the back of KL Rahuls unbeaten 152, but Punjab Kings chased it down with seven balls to spare, registering the highest successful chase in IPL history. Article Source: IANS

Rahul: 'I had to catch up with the modern demands of T20 cricket'

There's no time in T20 cricket to say 'later, Rahul said after his record-breaking 152 against PBKS

Knight rides high as Somerset overwhelm Surrey at Taunton

Former England captain makes attacking century to power hosts to their highest List A total

Jess Jonassen stars as Yorkshire win Roses battle

The Australian allrounder smashed 108 before taking 4 for 30 as the White Rose triumphed in Manchester

South Africa opt to bowl, make two changes; no Mandhana for India

Anushka, Gaud and Charani came in for India, while Khaka and Marx were playing for SA

IPL 2026: Sooryavanshis Blazing Century Powers RR To 228/6 Against SRH

Indian Premier League: 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi smashed a brilliant century as Rajasthan Royals posted 228/6 in 20 overs against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the 36th match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium on Saturday. Asked to bat first, Rajasthan Royals got off to a flying start, thanks to young opener Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. He came out all guns blazing and took on Praful Hinge in the very first over, smashing four sixes and collecting 25 runs. The aggressive intent continued in the next over as Sooryavanshi and Yashasvi Jaiswal hit a six each off Pat Cummins, who was playing his first match of the season. Sunrisers Hyderabad managed to pull things back briefly in the third over when Eshan Malinga dismissed Jaiswal with a clever slower delivery. Jaiswal made 10 runs off eight balls, including one six. Despite the wicket, RR maintained a strong scoring rate. Sooryavanshi continued to dominate and brought up his half-century in just 15 balls, hitting a six off Sakib Hussain in the final over of the powerplay. Rajasthan Royals ended the first six overs at a commanding 73/1. Sooryavanshi kept attacking and found good support from Dhruv Jurel, who rotated the strike well and kept the scoreboard ticking. In the 11th over, Jurel shifted gears by smashing a massive 101-metre six off Malinga, followed by a boundary on the next ball. He went on to score a quick fifty off 34 balls but was dismissed on the very next delivery by Nitish Kumar Reddy while attempting a pull shot. Jurel scored 51 off 25 balls, hitting eight fours and one six. Even after losing his partner, Sooryavanshi did not slow down. He continued his fearless batting and reached his second IPL century in just 36 balls, hitting back-to-back sixes off Sakib Hussain in the 14th over. However, his innings came to an end on the very next ball when he was trapped LBW while trying to play a reverse scoop. His stunning knock of 103 came off just 37 balls and included five fours and 12 sixes. Rajasthan Royals faced another setback in the 17th over when captain Riyan Parag was bowled by Pat Cummins for just 7 runs off 9 balls, continuing his poor run this season. In the final overs, Donovan Ferreira provided the late push with a quickfire 33 off 16 balls, hitting three fours and three sixes. He was dismissed in the 19th over while attempting another big shot off Malinga. Shimron Hetmyer added 11 runs as the Rajasthan Royals comfortably crossed the 220-run mark. Rajasthan Royals faced another setback in the 17th over when captain Riyan Parag was bowled by Pat Cummins for just 7 runs off 9 balls, continuing his poor run this season. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: Rajasthan Royals 228/6 in 20 overs (Vaibhav Sooryavanshi 103, Dhruv Jurel 51; Donovan Ferreira 33; Eshan Malinga 2-38, Nitish Kumar Reddy 1-20) against Sunrisers Hyderabad. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Working On 'six-hitting' And Smashing From Ball One With Nayar Helped A Lot, Says Rahul

Arun Jaitley Stadium: Delhi Capitals skipper KL Rahul said his majestic knock of 152 not out was the result of sustained work done under Abhishek Nayar on adapting to the evolving demands of T20 cricket like six-hitting and aggression from ball one. At the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Saturday, Rahul hit an unbeaten 152 off 67 balls, laced with 16 fours and nine sixes at a strike rate of 226. He now holds the record for the highest individual score by an Indian batter and the third highest overall in IPL history after Chris Gayle and Brendon McCullum. Rahul also went past Tilak Varma to now hold the record for the highest individual score by an Indian batter in mens T20s. I was very pleased, very happy at the end of the first 20 overs. It's something that I've been working on for a very long time behind the scenes. Just said this last year as well, I spent a lot of time with Abhishek Nayar. We talked a lot about how I can improve and especially white ball game, also red ball game. But for now, it was about doing well in the IPL and where I was at and what I needed to do to get better and catch up with the modern demands of T20 cricket. So I'm really happy to see that I could put that into work and score runs for my team and get them to what I thought was a winning total, Rahul said in the post-match presentation ceremony. He also admitted that watching the T20 World Cup and the fearless approach of young batters prompted him to re-evaluate his own strategy, particularly during the Powerplay overs. Obviously, just to step back a little bit and see where T20 games have gone and what the demand of T20 cricket is in today's day and age. And watching the T20 World Cup, watching some of the young guys coming in and smashing from ball one and I've spoken about six hitting and that's something that I had to really work on and give myself that sort of freedom to go out there and take on the bowling from maybe ball one, ball two, he said. Reflecting on the shift in the T20 landscape, Rahul noted that the luxury of taking time to settle is a thing of the past. There was a time where the T20 game was slightly different where I as an opener could take some time and then accelerate. I had enough confidence in my ability that I could always convert those starts and make it a big knock at the end. But today's demand is that the first six overs is the most important thing that in the power play, is to get as many runs as you can and put the bowling under pressure. But obviously I stuck to being true to my game, which is to play cricket shots, but also find a way to be aggressive and play proper shots. Addressing the difference between formats, Rahul highlighted that T20 cricket requires a constant attacking mindset, unlike ODIs. Look, in T20 cricket, that's the mindset I am in right now. And I was in that sort of mindset last season as well, that there's no time in T20 cricket to say later. There is time in ODI cricket to say, maybe I can hold off for a couple of overs and attack at the back end. But as an opening batter, when you're playing in T20 cricket, that's something that I've watched and learned from the other guys who are playing international cricket and been successful is that there's no time for you to think, okay, I'm going to go next over, he said. Addressing the difference between formats, Rahul highlighted that T20 cricket requires a constant attacking mindset, unlike ODIs. Look, in T20 cricket, that's the mindset I am in right now. And I was in that sort of mindset last season as well, that there's no time in T20 cricket to say later. There is time in ODI cricket to say, maybe I can hold off for a couple of overs and attack at the back end. Also Read: Live Cricket Score That's when maybe I'll fall back to hitting boundaries and six hitting becomes the second option. But throughout the innings, I've had to work really hard on my mental setup as well to tell myself that six hitting is what's required and trying to get 15, 16 runs in over is a must in T20 cricket. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Was Just Saying Whatever They Get From Here On, Have To Score One More Run And Become Victorious, Says Iyer

While Prabhsimran Singh: Punjab Kings captain Shreyas Iyer said his teams mindset during the high-scoring IPL clash was simple - to score one more run than the Delhi Capitals and get a victory, while praising KL Rahuls innings and the openers blazing start. Iyers words come after PBKS hunted down a record 265 with seven balls to spare. While Prabhsimran Singh top-scored with 76, Iyer himself made 71 not out to ensure PBKS maintained their unbeaten run in the competition. It also meant that Rahuls majestic 152 not out the highest score by an Indian batter in the IPL went in vain. In my mind, I was just saying that whatever they get from here on, I think we just have to score one more run and ensure we become victorious. And that was the mindset, nothing more, honestly speaking, because whatever balls the bowlers were bowling at that particular time, I think he was improvising and he (Rahul) was playing beautiful shots. So it didn't look like he was trying really hard. I just said to myself that if they can, we can too. We discussed that in the previous games, we chased around 220225 with two overs left. So the mindset was very much similar. Get as many runs as possible in the powerplay and they just went bonkers from ball one and steadied the ship for us. And the rest of us, we just wanted to capitalise on the start, Iyer said after the match ended. Asked about his thoughts on Rahuls knock, Iyer said, I'm running out of words, honestly speaking, because first of all, it was scorching hot to come out there and see bowlers getting hit for fours and sixes, you kind of lose your mindset. You don't know what to do in such a situation, but I know how the wicket was. We were actually presuming the wicket would turn, but there wasn't much turn to offer. Probably after the powerplay, when Yuzi (Chahal) came in to bowl, the ball was holding a bit, but wasn't creating much of an impact. Kudos to KL (Rahul). The way he played was fabulous and pleasing to the eye, he said. Talking about PBKS being listless in bowling and fielding, Iyer said, Right now, we just want to have as much fun as possible and relax because we had three days of hard work, practicing in the heat and playing in the heat. So, relax a bit and then the day after, we'll rejuvenate and probably go back to the drawing board to see how we can come back stronger and plan successfully regarding the opponents we'll be playing in the future. Opener Priyansh Arya, who hit 43 off 17 balls and blasted 116 runs in power-play alongside Prabhsimran, said the duo had a clear plan to make as many runs as possible. We were talking among ourselves that if we try to score 80 in the first six overs, then we can easily make 100 runs if we bat smartly. That was the thing working for us. The pitch was very good. I had belief that we could chase it. So, relax a bit and then the day after, we'll rejuvenate and probably go back to the drawing board to see how we can come back stronger and plan successfully regarding the opponents we'll be playing in the future. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Ricky Ponting said that if we play our best game, we can chase it comfortably. And we are the best team till now in the Indian Premier League. So if we play our best game, we can chase it. Just keep self-belief, he concluded. Article Source: IANS

Prabhsimran, Shreyas upstage Rahul's 152* to mow down record IPL chase

Batters filled their boots with both teams being sloppy in the field on a flat pitch

Axar Patel: 'We deserved to lose'

The DC captain said that missing crucial chances and epeating the same mistakes cost them against Punjab Kings

IPL 2026: Rahuls Unbeaten 152 In Vain As PBKS Complete Record Chase, Beat DC By Six Wickets (Ld)

Arun Jaitley Stadium: On a sweltering 41-degree day, 529 runs were plundered in 38.5 overs in a keenly awaited IPL 2026 clash at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. In a match that yet again defined the modern-day scoring rate in T20 cricket, Punjab Kings scripted history by successfully upstaging their previous record to chase down 265 and defeat Delhi Capitals by six wickets. It was a day when records fell like ninepins, starting from a monumental, unbeaten 152 off 67 balls hit by KL Rahul - the highest score by an Indian batter in the IPL and mens T20 cricket. Rahuls innings was a blend of technical elegance and sheer boundary hitting, as he became only the third player in IPL history, after Chris Gayle and Brendon McCullum, to get a score above 150. Though Rahuls efforts and Nitish Ranas 91 off 44 balls, with the duo sharing a mammoth 220-run stand, took DC to 264/2, it was ultimately overshadowed by a collective display of breathless and ruthless batting from table-toppers PBKS. Chasing a gigantic 265, PBKS batters displayed breathtaking audacity, something which has been their trademark in the competition, to hunt down the total with seven balls to spare. The foundation of the record-breaking chase was a ferocious powerplay, where Prabhsimran (76 off 26 balls, nine fours and five sixes) and Priyansh Arya (43 off 17 balls) plundered 116 runs. Despite a brief middle-order wobble caused by Kuldeep Yadav, captain Shreyas Iyer anchored the finish with a composed, unbeaten 71 off 36 balls, studded with three fours and six sixes. Iyer was dropped twice by Karun Nair at the fag end and was well-supported by Shashank Singh (19 not out) as the table-toppers got over the line with clinical ease to prove that no target is safe in the current T20 cricket era. Pathum Nissanka got the scoreboard moving for DC with a flicked boundary off Arshdeep Singh, while Rahul kickstarted his innings by dispatching Xavier Bartlett through a drive and flick. Arshdeep provided a breakthrough in the third over as Nissanka top-edged a pull to the wicketkeeper. However, the setback did little to slow DC's momentum as Rahul finished the over with a massive pulled six. With Rana hitting four boundaries in his first ten balls, Rahul continued his aggressive approach, pulling Vyshak Vijaykumar and Marco Jansen for six and four. DC ended the powerplay at 68/1, their highest score in this phase in IPL 2026. After launching Yuzvendra Chahal over long-on for a maximum, Rahul reached his fifty in 26 deliveries. Rana shifted gears in sensational fashion to bring up his fifty off 29 balls with back-to-back scooped boundaries off Bartlett. Rahul showed no mercy, dismantling Arshdeep for three fours and a six, while showcasing a range of shots that left the PBKS fielders as mere spectators. He reached his century in 47 balls by punching Jansen down the ground and brought out his trademark celebrations. Rahul showed no signs of slowing down, carting Vyshak for three sixes and a boundary in a 24-run over. Rana survived a scare in the 17th over when Marcus Stoinis completed a sliding catch, but the third umpire ruled the boot had made contact with the boundary rope, resulting in a six. Rana eventually fell for 91, as Iyer took a stunning one-handed catch at extra cover. Rahul then scooped and upper-cut to go past 150, as DC put PBKS on the path of what appeared to be an insurmountable total. Arya launched the chase in style by smashing the first ball from Auqib Nabi over mid-wicket for six - his second such feat in the IPL and joined Yashasvi Jaiswal in this rare club. When Nabi pitched it too short, Prabhsimran pulled him for a six, as 15 runs came off the opening over. After Nabi put down a chance of Prabhsimran at backward point, Arya whipped a full toss for six, while Prabhsimran punished loose deliveries to get a four and six. The chase, however, was momentarily overshadowed by a serious head injury to DC pacer Lungi Ngidi in the third over. Attempting a difficult backtracking catch after Arya mistimed off Axar Patel, Ngidi landed heavily on his head and had to be stretchered off the field in an ambulance, amid silent and concerned faces in both teams and fans inside the stadium. Once play resumed, PBKSs aggression reached a fever pitch. Priyansh hammered Axar for successive sixes, and was followed by him and Prabhsimran taking 27 runs off Nabi in the fourth over, including three sixes hit by the latter. The Powerplay concluded with Mukesh being decimated for six consecutive fours by a rampant Prabhsimran, who reached his fifty in 18 balls, as 24 runs came off it for PBKS to sign off with 116/0. Some respite came for DC when Arya holed out to deep midwicket for 43 off 17 balls. Kuldeep Yadav turned the tide for DC - trapping Prabhsimran lbw before castling Cooper Connolly with a googly. Despite the double blows, Shreyas Iyer and Nehal Wadhera hit five boundaries between themselves from overs 11-15 to keep the asking rate in check. Priyansh hammered Axar for successive sixes, and was followed by him and Prabhsimran taking 27 runs off Nabi in the fourth over, including three sixes hit by the latter. The Powerplay concluded with Mukesh being decimated for six consecutive fours by a rampant Prabhsimran, who reached his fifty in 18 balls, as 24 runs came off it for PBKS to sign off with 116/0. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: Delhi Capitals 264/2 in 20 overs (KL Rahul 152 not out, Nitish Rana 91; Arshdeep Singh 1-49, Xavier Bartlett 1-69) lost to Punjab Kings 265/4 in 18.5 overs (Prabhsimran Singh 76, Shreyas Iyer 71 not out; Kuldeep Yadav 2-46, Vipraj Nigam 1-24) by six wickets. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: 'We Are Focusing On Execution,' Says Varun Aaron On SRH Bowling Plan

Indian Premier League: Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) bowling coach Varun Aaron has stressed the importance of execution and collective team effort as his side clashes with the Rajasthan Royals(RR) in their eighth match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at Sawai Mansingh Stadium on Saturday. Reflecting on the teams journey so far, Aaron highlighted how SRH have managed to recover well after early setbacks in the tournament, thanks to different players stepping up at different times. The way we bounced back from the first two defeats has been really pleasing. In some matches, the batters delivered, and in others, the bowlers stepped up when the batting didnt work. Thats the kind of team game we need all the way to the final, he said to broadcasters before the match. Aaron pointed out that such a balance across departments is essential in a format like T20, where momentum can shift quickly, and no single unit can guarantee success every game. Speaking about the approach going forward, the former Indian pacer made it clear that the teams focus remains on sticking to basics, especially for bowlers who often have limited margin for error in high-scoring games. The message is very simple: we are focusing on execution. In T20 cricket, conditions can favour either batters or bowlers. But as a bowler, the only thing you can rely on is yourself and your execution, Aaron explained. He added that adapting quickly to match situations and trusting ones skills is crucial, particularly in pressure moments when games can turn in just a few overs. Aaron also spoke about the evolving nature of T20 batting and the importance of fearless intent at the top of the order. Comparing aggressive openers like Sooryavanshi and Abhishek Sharma, he said both share a similar mindset that is becoming increasingly vital in modern cricket. He added that adapting quickly to match situations and trusting ones skills is crucial, particularly in pressure moments when games can turn in just a few overs. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Meanwhile, captain Pat Cummins is back for SRH and leading the side for the first time in the season. Cummins has replaced Dilshan Madushanka, while Praful Hinge is back in place of Harsh Dubey in the SRH playing XI. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Khaleel Undergoes Successful Surgery As CSK Provides Positive Update

Chennai Super Kings: Five-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have provided a positive update on injured left-arm pacer Khaleel Ahmed, confirming that he has successfully undergone surgery after being ruled out of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 due to a quadricep injury. Khaleel has undergone a successful surgery! Wishing him strength and a quick recovery, the franchise said in a social media update. The 28-year-old fast bowler was earlier ruled out of the remainder of the tournament on April 16 after sustaining a right quadricep injury during CSKs match against Kolkata Knight Riders at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. Khaleel had to leave the field midway through his spell after pulling up during his run-up. While it initially appeared to be cramps, he was seen clutching his right leg in pain and could not continue. His over was completed by teammate Gurjapneet Singh. Subsequent medical assessments revealed a tear in the quadriceps, a serious injury for a fast bowler. Sources had indicated earlier that surgery might be required, considering the nature of the damage and the recovery time involved. Khaleels absence is a major setback for CSK as the IPL 2026 season enters a crucial phase. He had been a key part of the teams pace attack, and losing him further weakens an already stretched bowling unit. Subsequent medical assessments revealed a tear in the quadriceps, a serious injury for a fast bowler. Sources had indicated earlier that surgery might be required, considering the nature of the damage and the recovery time involved. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Meanwhile, CSK have recovered from a shaky start to sit mid-table, highlighted by a dominant 103-run win over the Mumbai Indians (MI). Led by Ruturaj Gaikwad, the team has won three of their last four matches, featuring standout performances from Sanju Samson and Akeal Hosein. They will next face the Gujarat Titans (GT) on April 26. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Prabhsimran, Iyer Fifties Help PBKS Hunt Down 265; Beat DC By Six Wickets

Arun Jaitley Stadium: Powered by rollicking fifties from Prabhsimran Singh and skipper Shreyas Iyer, Punjab Kings pulled off the highest successful run chase in IPL history to beat Delhi Capitals by six wickets in a high-scoring clash at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. Chasing a gigantic 265, PBKS batters displayed breathtaking audacity, something which has been their trademark in the competition, to hunt down the total with seven balls to spare. The foundation of the record-breaking chase was a ferocious powerplay, where Prabhsimran (76 off 26 balls, nine fours and five sixes) and Priyansh Arya (43 off 17 balls) plundered 116 runs. Despite a brief middle-order wobble caused by Kuldeep Yadav, captain Shreyas Iyer anchored the finish with a composed, unbeaten 71 off 36 balls, studded with three fours and six sixes. Iyer was well-supported by Shashank Singh (19 not out) as the table-toppers got over the line with clinical ease. The result meant that KL Rahuls historic 152 not out - the highest score by an Indian in the IPL - ended in a losing cause. While Rahuls masterclass had earlier powered DC to 264/2, PBKS relentless aggression proved that no target is safe in the current T20 cricket era. Arya launched the chase in style by smashing the first ball from Auqib Nabi over mid-wicket for six - his second such feat in the IPL and joined Yashasvi Jaiswal in this rare club. When Nabi pitched it too short, Prabhsimran pulled him for a six, as 15 runs came off the opening over. After Nabi put down a chance of Prabhsimran at backward point, Arya whipped a full toss for six, while Prabhsimran punished loose deliveries to get a four and six. The chase, however, was momentarily overshadowed by a serious head injury to DC pacer Lungi Ngidi in the third over. Attempting a difficult backtracking catch after Arya mistimed off Axar Patel, Ngidi landed heavily on his head and had to be stretchered off the field in an ambulance, amid silent and concerned faces in both teams and fans inside the stadium. Once play resumed, PBKSs aggression reached a fever pitch. Priyansh hammered Axar for successive sixes, and was followed by him and Prabhsimran taking 27 runs off Nabi in the fourth over, including three sixes hit by the latter. The Powerplay concluded with Mukesh being decimated for six consecutive fours by a rampant Prabhsimran, who reached his fifty in 18 balls, as 24 runs came off it for PBKS to sign off with 116/0. Some respite came for DC when Arya perished in an attempt to get his sixth catch and holed out to deep midwicket for 43 off 17 balls. Kuldeep Yadav came in to turn the tide for DC - trapping Prabhsimran lbw before castling Cooper Connolly with a googly. Despite the double blows, Shreyas Iyer and Nehal Wadhera hit five boundaries between themselves from overs 11-15 to keep the asking rate in check. Priyansh hammered Axar for successive sixes, and was followed by him and Prabhsimran taking 27 runs off Nabi in the fourth over, including three sixes hit by the latter. The Powerplay concluded with Mukesh being decimated for six consecutive fours by a rampant Prabhsimran, who reached his fifty in 18 balls, as 24 runs came off it for PBKS to sign off with 116/0. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: Delhi Capitals 264/2 in 20 overs (KL Rahul 152 not out, Nitish Rana 91; Arshdeep Singh 1-49, Xavier Bartlett 1-69) lost to Punjab Kings 265/4 in 18.5 overs (Prabhsimran Singh 76, Shreyas Iyer 71 not out; Kuldeep Yadav 2-46, Vipraj Nigam 1-24) by six wickets Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Various Tests Underway On Injured DC Pacer Ngidi, Results Awaited

Max Super Speciality Hospital: Delhi Capitals pacer Lungi Ngidi is undergoing medical tests at a city hospital after suffering a nasty head injury during the IPL clash at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, with the result of those reports still awaited. Various tests are still being conducted on injured Delhi Capitals pacer Lungi Ngidi at the Max Super Speciality Hospital in Karol Bagh. Reports of it are still awaited. It is to be noted that he was unconscious when he was taken off the field in the ambulance, said sources at the venue to IANS on Saturday. In the IPL 2026 clash at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Ngidi fell awkwardly while attempting to take a catch off Priyansh Arya in the third over of Punjab Kings chase. Arya tried to loft Axar Patel over mid-off, but Ngidi backtracked from mid-off, misjudged the trajectory, and fell heavily on his backside. In the process, Ngidi hit the back of his head onto the ground and grimaced in pain for a long time. Everyone on the field wore tense expressions as medical staff rushed in, with the DC physio and team doctor attending to Ngidi on the ground, as play was halted for 15 minutes. A stretcher was brought out as the crowd fell silent, sensing the seriousness of the situation. Ngidis teammates David Miller and Tristan Stubbs looked visibly shaken, while DC coach Hemang Badani gestured for a neck brace to be applied to him. In the process, Ngidi hit the back of his head onto the ground and grimaced in pain for a long time. Everyone on the field wore tense expressions as medical staff rushed in, with the DC physio and team doctor attending to Ngidi on the ground, as play was halted for 15 minutes. Also Read: Live Cricket Score A neck brace was slid under his head before he was strapped onto the stretcher and then taken off the field in an ambulance. Ngidi was replaced in DCs playing eleven by leg-spin bowling all-rounder Vipraj Nigam, who came in as a concussion substitute. Article Source: IANS

Cummins returns as SRH opt to bowl vs RR

This was SRH's first toss win of the season: stand-in captain Ishan Kishan had lost all seven he had contested

Surging CSK meet stuttering GT in Chennai heat

Both teams have three wins from seven games but seem to be heading in opposite directions

Bell takes toll on Durham as Hampshire romp to six-wicket win

Fast bowler takes five-for before Bouchier 47 seals rapid chase

Pathirana boost for KKR against LSG as No. 10 meets No. 9

LSG have lost four matches in a row, while KKR registered their first win of the season only in their previous outing

IPL 2026: Pat Cummins Back As SRH Opt To Bowl Against RR

Indian Premier League: Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) have won the toss and elected to bowl first against Rajasthan Royals (RR) in match 36th of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium on Saturday. Captain Pat Cummins is back for SRH and leading the side for the first time in the season. Cummins has replaced Dilshan Madushanka, while Praful Hinge is back in place of Harsh Dubey in the SRH playing XI. SRH is coming to the contest after a dominant win over the Delhi Capitals. They have won four out of seven matches and are placed at number four in the points table with eight points and a positive net run rate of +0.820. The Rajasthan Royals are also entering the match with a big victory over the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in their last match. They have won five out of seven matches and are placed at number 2 in the points table with 10 points and a positive net run rate of 0.790. After winning the toss, SRH skipper Cummins spoke about returning after injury and team performance so far. We're going to have a bowl first. The wicket looks good, but we have to see what we need to chase down. Still really fresh. It's been a little while, but I've had really good preparation, a couple of bowls over here. I haven't played a game for a while, so we'll see how we go. But the body feels awesome, he said after winning the toss. On Ishan Kishan's captaincy, he said, He's fantastic. Yeah, four wins from the first seven games. I think he played the style that we really try and lead into here at SRH, that aggressive, fearless style approach. We know the pitch really well in Hyderabad. I think the challenge when you go play away is trying to sense what a good score is, what short work or ball work. So I think it's the first game for this venue for the season, so it'll be a challenge for both teams. Yeah, I've come in for Madushanka, and Hinge has come in, Harsh Dubey, he added. While after losing the toss, RR captain Riyan Parag said, We were looking to do that as well. But the last couple of seasons, we have not done well chasing, no problems batting first. We know the wicket really well. We had our camp here. There might be dew, but it won't be too much. Last year we fell short by a couple of overs, just want to put a collective 40 overs. The middle order has to step up and the others. Playing XIs: Rajasthan Royals: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Dhruv Jurel(wk), Riyan Parag(c), Shimron Hetmyer, Donovan Ferreira, Ravindra Jadeja, Jofra Archer, Tushar Deshpande, Brijesh Sharma, Nandre Burger Impact substitutes: Ravi Bishnoi, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Ravi Singh, Shubham Dubey, Sandeep Sharma. Rajasthan Royals: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Dhruv Jurel(wk), Riyan Parag(c), Shimron Hetmyer, Donovan Ferreira, Ravindra Jadeja, Jofra Archer, Tushar Deshpande, Brijesh Sharma, Nandre Burger Also Read: Live Cricket Score Impact substitutes: Travis Head, Smaran Ravichandran, Harsh Dubey, Liam Livingstone, Harshal Patel Article Source: IANS

3rd ODI: Pereras 95 Leads Sri Lanka Women To Series Win Over Bangladesh

Sri Lanka Women: Hasini Perera played a brilliant knock of 95 runs as Sri Lanka Women completed a strong comeback in the ODI series with a comfortable seven-wicket win over Bangladesh in the final match of the series played at the Shahid Kamruzzaman Stadium on Saturday. With this, they have also clinched the series by 2-1. Coming to bat first after losing the toss, the Bangladesh team scored 213 runs after losing 8 wickets in 50 overs with the help of a brilliant innings from Sobhana Mostary. While Sri Lanka chased a total in just 46.3 overs with the help of an amazing knock by Hasini Perera. The chase did not begin perfectly for Sri Lanka as captain Chamari Athapaththu was dismissed early for 10 runs by Marufa Akter. However, Hasini Perera steadied the innings and took control of the chase. Perera played a calm and composed knock, scoring 95 runs off 131 balls, hitting 13 boundaries. She built a crucial 108-run partnership with Imesha Dulani, who contributed a solid 56 from 79 balls. Their stand laid the foundation for the chase and put Sri Lanka firmly in control. After Dulani was dismissed, Perera continued her good work and added another important partnership of 78 runs with Harshitha Samarawickrama. Harshitha remained unbeaten on 44 and played a key role in finishing the match. Perera looked set for a well-deserved century but fell for 95, caught off the bowling of Sobhana Mostary with just nine runs needed. Despite that, Sri Lanka comfortably reached the target, with Hansima Karunaratne supporting Harshitha at the end. Earlier, Bangladesh Women posted 213 for 8 after being asked to bat first. Their innings started poorly as they lost early wickets, putting them under pressure. A recovery came through a 65-run partnership between Sobhana Mostary and captain Nigar Sultana. Sobhana was the top scorer with 74 runs off 80 balls, hitting eight fours, while Nigar added 40 runs. However, Bangladesh struggled to build momentum in the later stages. Wickets kept falling at regular intervals, and they could not accelerate as much as they would have liked. Ritu Moni added a useful 20 runs lower down the order, helping the team cross the 200-run mark. For Sri Lanka, Kavisha Dilhari was the standout bowler with three wickets, while Nimasha Meepage picked up two. Malki Madara and Athapaththu also chipped in with one wicket each. In the chase, Sri Lanka maintained control throughout, especially after the big second-wicket partnership. Bangladesh bowlers tried to fight back, with Marufa Akter picking up two wickets, but they could not break the key partnerships at the right time. For Sri Lanka, Kavisha Dilhari was the standout bowler with three wickets, while Nimasha Meepage picked up two. Malki Madara and Athapaththu also chipped in with one wicket each. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: Bangladesh women 213/ 8 in 50 overs (Sobhana 74, Nigar 40, Dilhari 3-48) lost to Sri Lanka 214/3 in 46.3 overs (Perera 95, Dulani 56, Marufa 2-49) by 7 wickets. Article Source: IANS

Lungi Ngidi taken off the field in ambulance after head injury against PBKS

DC fast bowler hit his head hard on the ground while attempting to take a catch

IPL 2026: Lungi Ngidi Suffers Nasty Head Injury, Stretchered Off At Arun Jaitley Stadium

Arun Jaitley Stadium: Delhi Capitals fast bowler Lungi Ngidi suffered a frightening head injury while attempting to take a catch during the ongoing IPL 2026 clash against Punjab Kings at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, and was stretchered off the field in an ambulance. The incident occurred in the third over when left-handed opener Priyansh Arya tried to loft Axar Patel over mid-off. Ngidi backtracked for taking the catch, but misjudged the trajectory, and fell heavily on his backside. In the process, Ngidi hit the back of his head onto the ground. But Ngidi stayed down in visible pain for a longer time, as everyone on the field wore tense expressions. Medical staff rushed in, with the DC physio and team doctor attending to Ngidi on the ground. A stretcher was brought out as the crowd fell silent, sensing the seriousness of the situation. Ngidis teammates David Miller and Tristan Stubbs looked visibly shaken, while DC coach Hemang Badani gestured for a neck brace to be applied to him. To add more to the scary and disturbing scenes, an ambulance was wheeled onto the ground as doctors and physios along with players and coaches surrounded the pacer. Though Ngidi was able to communicate with the medical staff via hand gestures, he wasnt able to move his neck and head regions. A neck brace was slid under his head before he was strapped onto the stretcher. Ricky Ponting, head coach of Punjab Kings, also walked to the middle to check on Ngidi. Ngidis teammates David Miller and Tristan Stubbs looked visibly shaken, while DC coach Hemang Badani gestured for a neck brace to be applied to him. To add more to the scary and disturbing scenes, an ambulance was wheeled onto the ground as doctors and physios along with players and coaches surrounded the pacer. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Dushmantha Chameera, the Sri Lankan pacer, has now been named as a concussion substitute for Ngidi for the remainder of the clash, which resumed nearly 15 minutes later. The hope remains that Ngidi recovers totally from what appeared to be a very nasty blow to his head. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: I Was Just In A Mindset To Hit Boundaries And Put Pressure On The Bowlers, Says Rahul

Lucknow Super Giants: After hitting a majestic 152 not out to power Delhi Capitals to a gigantic 264/2, wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul said his approach was centered on playing proper cricketing shots and maintaining pressure on the opposition bowlers, while also praising Nitish Rana for his phenomenal knock of 91 in their 220-run partnership. By hitting an unbeaten 152 off 67 balls, laced with 16 fours and nine sixes at a strike rate of 226, Rahul now holds the record for the highest individual score by an Indian batter and the third highest overall in IPL history after Chris Gayle and Brendon McCullum. Rahul also went past Tilak Varma to now hold the record for the highest individual score by an Indian batter in mens T20s. I'm obviously happy. I've taken a beating due to the heat, just need to hydrate and recover. So it's mixed emotions at the moment. I hope I don't cramp later on. I mean only towards the end was I premeditating. Early on, I think for the first 70-80 runs, I wasn't really premeditating. I was just in a mindset to hit boundaries and put pressure on the bowlers. My strength is always to play proper cricket shots and I was trying to back that and try and believe that that's good enough to get my team past 250 and I continued to do that. Only at the back end was I premeditating and when the field is set, when the bowlers go to the wide off-field or a spinner field, you know kind of what to expect, said a tired Rahul in a mid-innings chat with the broadcasters. Rahul is also the first player in IPLs history to score multiple centuries for three different franchises DC, PBKS and Lucknow Super Giants. Rahul and Ranas spectacular 220-run stand is also a record for the second-highest partnership in IPL history. Phenomenal knock from Nitish. The way he came in and you know, I think when you can hit proper cricket shots and get boundaries in the first six overs and continue to do that, I think the bowling team feels a lot more pressure when you're when you're trying to hit big sixes or trying to slog, then the opposition already feels like they're in with a chance. Rahul is also the first player in IPLs history to score multiple centuries for three different franchises DC, PBKS and Lucknow Super Giants. Rahul and Ranas spectacular 220-run stand is also a record for the second-highest partnership in IPL history. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I think he did that beautifully and I think right hand, left hand combination worked as well. The wicket was on the on the slower side, but I think both of us were seeing the ball really well, so we just continued batting and continued putting pressure on the bowlers, added Rahul. Article Source: IANS

Sarmin Sultana Earns Call-up As Bangladesh Announce 15-player Squad For SL T20Is

SL T20Is: Bangladesh have drafted top-order batter Sarmin Sultana into their squad for the upcoming womens T20I series against Sri Lanka, with Fargana Hoque making way in the 15-member group. The squad announcement came as soon as the ODI leg of the home series concluded in Rajshahi on Saturday, where Sri Lanka clinched the three-match series 2-1. Bangladesh will now aim to regroup and address concerns, particularly with the bat, after an inconsistent showing in the 50-over format. Sarmin, who is yet to make her T20I debut, earned a recall to the ODI side earlier this year after a long gap but had a modest return, scoring 42 runs across three outings. Despite that, the selectors have backed her inclusion as they look to bolster the top order ahead of a crucial stretch in the shortest format leading to the Womens T20 World Cup. The batting unit is expected to once again rely heavily on skipper Nigar Sultana, along with Sobhana Mostary and Sharmin Akter, all of whom showed glimpses of form during the ODI series. Hoque, who has been left out, featured in just one match and managed 11 runs. On the bowling front, Bangladesh appear relatively settled. Young pacer Marufa Akter is set to spearhead the attack with the new ball, while left-arm seamer Fariha Trisna could play a key role, especially on the more responsive surfaces in Sylhet. The spin department will once again be marshalled by vice-captain Nahida Akter, alongside Rabeya Khan, Sultana Khatun and Fahima Khatun. The quartet will be keen to deliver improved performances after struggling to maintain pressure in ODIs. On the bowling front, Bangladesh appear relatively settled. Young pacer Marufa Akter is set to spearhead the attack with the new ball, while left-arm seamer Fariha Trisna could play a key role, especially on the more responsive surfaces in Sylhet. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Squad: Nigar Sultana (captain), Nahida Akter (vice-captain), Dilara Akter, Sobhana Mostary, Fahima Khatun, Sharmin Akter, Ritu Moni, Shorna Akter, Rabeya Khan, Sarmin Sultana, Marufa Akter, Fariha Trisna, Sultana Khatun, Sanjida Akter Meghla, Juairiya Ferdous. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Rahuls Unbeaten 152, Ranas 91 Powers DC To Gigantic 264/2 Against PBKS

Arun Jaitley Stadium: KL Rahul etched his name in the record books by smashing an unbeaten 152 - the highest score by an Indian batter in IPLs history - to power Delhi Capitals to a mammoth 264/2 against a listless Punjab Kings at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Saturday. Rahuls 67-ball masterclass was all about sublime strokeplay fetching him 16 fours and nine sixes at a strike rate of 226, thus making him only the third batter in the tournaments history after Chris Gayle and Brendon McCullum to cross the 150-run mark. His monumental effort, combined with a blistering 91 from Nitish Rana, as the duo shared a massive 220-run stand off 95 balls propelled DC to their highest-ever IPL total on a sweltering 41-degree day. PBKS were left to rue a nightmarish performance with the ball and in the field, headlined by Shashank Singh dropping Rahul when he was on just 12. Rahul ensured he made PBKS pay dearly for that reprieve, as the whole stadium reverberated with chants of his name. Rahul has now become the first player in IPL history to score multiple centuries for three different franchises. His 47-ball hundred is also the fastest ton of his IPL career. Rana, meanwhile, was equally destructive, hitting 11 fours and four sixes in his 44-ball stay to hit his second fifty on the trot. After DC elected to bat first under scorching heat, Pathum Nissanka (11) got the scoreboard moving with a flicked boundary off Arshdeep Singh, while Rahul kickstarted his innings by dispatching Xavier Bartlett through a drive and flick to get consecutive boundaries. However, Arshdeep provided the breakthrough for PBKS in the third over - after seeing Rahul dropped on 12 by Shashank Singh, he dismissed Nissanka, who top-edged a pull to wicketkeeper. The setback did little to slow DC's momentum as Rahul finished the over with a massive pulled six over deep mid-wicket. With Nitish Rana hitting four boundaries in his first ten balls, Rahul continued his aggressive approach pulling Vyshak Vijaykumar and Marco Jansen for six and four, as DC ended power-play at 68/1, their highest score in this phase of the game in IPL 2026. After launching Yuzvendra Chahal over long-on for a maximum, Rahul reached his fifty in 26 deliveries with a brace off Vyshak in the 10th over. He celebrated the feat by ending the over with a loft over the bowlers head for a boundary to bring up DCs hundred. Rahuls onslaught continued as he danced down the track to smash Chahal for two successive boundaries. Rana, meanwhile, shifted gears in sensational fashion to bring up his fifty off 29 balls. He reached the milestone with back-to-back scooped boundaries off an off-colour Bartlett, apart from pulling and thumping for two fours and swivelling and lofting for as many maximums as 28 runs came off the 12th over. Rahul showed no mercy as after lofting Marcus Stoinis for a sensational six, he dismantled Arshdeep for three fours and a six - showcasing a range of shots from scoop to drive and smacks down the ground - that left the PBKS fielders mere spectators. Rahul eventually reached his century in 47 balls by punching Jansen down the ground for a boundary. Upon reaching the milestone, Rahul celebrated with his signature 'X' gesture as fans rose to their feet to applaud a splendid knock. Rahul showed no signs of slowing down after crossing his century carting Vyshak for three sixes and a boundary on full tosses in a 24-run over that also saw DC cruise past the 200-run mark. Rana survived a major scare in the 17th over when Marcus Stoinis completed a spectacular sliding catch at the square leg boundary. But after multiple replays, third umpire Swaroopanand Kannur ruled that Stoinis boot had made contact with the boundary rope, resulting in a six instead of a dismissal. Rahul continued the carnage by clearing his front leg to smack Jansen over long-off for his eighth six of the evening, before carting him for another boundary. Rahul showed no signs of slowing down after crossing his century carting Vyshak for three sixes and a boundary on full tosses in a 24-run over that also saw DC cruise past the 200-run mark. Rana survived a major scare in the 17th over when Marcus Stoinis completed a spectacular sliding catch at the square leg boundary. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: Delhi Capitals 264/2 in 20 overs (KL Rahul 152 not out, Nitish Rana 91; Arshdeep Singh 1-49, Xavier Bartlett 1-69) against Punjab Kings Article Source: IANS

'His Fielding Level Has Got To Go Up': Bishop Criticises Sundar After Kohli's Catch Drop

Former West Indies: Former West Indies cricketer Ian Bishop expressed concern over Washington Sundars fielding standards after the all-rounder dropped a crucial catch of Virat Kohli during the clash between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Gujarat Titans (GT) at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium on Friday, a moment that proved decisive in the outcome of the match. After being put in to bat, Gujarat Titans posted a competitive 205/3, but a crucial moment unfolded in the very first over of RCBs chase when Kohli was dropped on zero by Washington Sundar off the bowling of Mohammed Siraj. The missed opportunity proved decisive as Kohli went on to anchor the chase with a brilliant 81 off 44 balls, guiding the defending champions towards victory. No, I see that differently. Yeah. We've all dropped catches. Sure. You don't pick and choose which ones you drop. Okay. Right? Bishop told ESPNCricinfo. Bishop, however, emphasised the need for improvement from Sundar in the field, stating that the youngster has a lot of time left and should focus on his fitness to be more useful for the team. But what I would, I would ask Washy, Washington Sundar, your level of fielding has got to go up. I think Washy is not; he's a young guy. He's athletic enough, he said. And for too long, I'm seeing missed opportunities with him. So I would ask him to put a little bit more work into that. So he becomes an asset in the field, in addition to all the other things, Bishop added. Former South Africa pacer Dale Steyn also weighed in on the costly dropped catch, stressing that certain chances in cricket simply cannot be missed, especially when it involves a batter of Virat Kohlis calibre. Steyn highlighted that while dropped catches are part of the game, there are moments that demand absolute precision, and this was one of them. And for too long, I'm seeing missed opportunities with him. So I would ask him to put a little bit more work into that. So he becomes an asset in the field, in addition to all the other things, Bishop added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score That catch. Actually, it doesn't matter who it is. You just can't drop that. That's 10 out of 10; you should be taking it. I mean, the cricketers, there are those you drop. There are those you just can't drop, he added. Article Source: IANS

Uncapped Sarmin included in Bangladesh's squad for T20Is against SL

Uncapped top-order batter replaces Fergana Hoque for the three-match series that starts on Tuesday

Sudharsan Need To Step Up His Aggression Level: Ian Bishop

Former West Indies: Former West Indies cricketer Ian Bishop pointed out the lack of speed in Gujarat Titans opener batter Sai Sudharsan's after his breathtaking IPL century against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and stated that he needed to tep up his aggression level in his batting approach. Sudharsan lit up the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium with a sensational 100 off 58 and in the process etched his name in the IPL records by becoming the fastest batter to reach 2,000 runs. But it wasnt enough as GT went down fighting against RCB by five-wickets in a high-scoring clash. Sudharsan, who was the Orange Cap winner from IPL 2025, had a patchy start to IPL 2026 as he had just one fifty-plus score before his century against RCB. He's one of the guys that needed to step up his aggression level. For the most part of that innings, I thought he was outstanding for a very orthodox player, Bishop said on ESPNcricinfo's TimeOut. I think that hundred would be very, very pleasing for him and for the GT dugout, and for the IPL as a whole, because here's another guy who gets another hundred - they've been coming in thick and fast in the last week and a half, hasn't it? He certainly did his part. If we're asking other guys that should have stepped up, at least Sai Sudarshan did his part. Meanwhile, former South African pcaer Dale Steyn was impressed with Sudharan's innings and said the opener knows exactly how and where he wants to score his runs. He certainly did his part. If we're asking other guys that should have stepped up, at least Sai Sudarshan did his part. Also Read: Live Cricket Score It was similar to the way that Sanju Samson got his hundred the other night. I think it's calculated, you know, he knows exactly how and where he wants to score his runs and then he put on a show, said Steyn. Article Source: IANS

'Im Itching To Get Out There': Pat Cummins Ahead Of Return Vs RR

Skipper Pat Cummins: Skipper Pat Cummins said he is eager to return to action for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) after recovering from a back injury, as the side prepares to face Rajasthan Royals (RR) in their eighth match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 to be played at Sawai Mansingh Stadium on Saturday. I feel excited. I feel like I've watched too much cricket lately without playing, so I'm itching to get out there. Yeah, stinging to get out there, Cummins said in a video released by SRH on x. Cummins also had special praise for stand-in captain Ishan Kishan, who has led the side in his absence in the opening seven matches. Boys have been on fire. It's been great to watch, so hopefully I can add something. I think for the most part, Ishan was good. I think when it comes to tosses, he was absolutely terrible. But outside of that, he was excellent. You know, he's been brewing, lots of energy, really good tactical moves from, you know, looking from the outside in, he said. He's obviously a great thinker of the game. And alongside, you know, Abhishek out there as well, they've been running it, and it looks pretty smooth. So yeah, when I'm out there, I'm sure I'll be leaning on those guys as well. But yeah, well done, Ishan, he's been awesome, he added. Cummins also spoke about the challenges that pacers face in the IPL and how well the SRH young bowling attack has performed so far. IPL is a very tough place for fast bowlers, but I thought, I think all our guys have been exceptional. You know, a few of the young guys have come in, he said. I think it's, well, I've certainly found it really hard to find the pace of IPL. Those guys look like they've, you know, hit it straight away. They've got the feel of the game. They're sequencing their variations brilliantly so far. So, you know, they already look like the complete players. It's not going to happen perfectly every game, but they've had a great start, he added. IPL is a very tough place for fast bowlers, but I thought, I think all our guys have been exceptional. You know, a few of the young guys have come in, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Australian Test captain cleared the fitness test on Friday and will take the field against the Rajasthan Royals. He will also take over the captaincy duties from stand-in captain Ishan Kishan, under whose leadership Sunrisers Hyderabad won four out of seven matches and are placed at number four in the points table with eight points and a positive net run rate of +0.820. Article Source: IANS

Connor Esterhuizen Has All The Attributes Of A Modern-day Player: Hashim Amla

The SA20 Rising Star: MI Cape Town batting coach Hashim Amla thinks Connor Esterhuizen possesses all the qualities needed to succeed as a modern-day player. Esterhuizens stock has soared dramatically over the past month. The SA20 Rising Star was recently named Player of the Series in New Zealand following an outstanding performance on his first Proteas tour. The Pretoria Capitals' batter shined in Aotearoa, leading to his inclusion among the rising group of young South Africans in the IPL. The Gujarat Titans signed the 24-year-old as a replacement for Englands Tom Banton, who was a former teammate at MI Cape Town. Amla has collaborated extensively with Esterhuizen, spending two seasons together at MI Cape Town before his transfer to the Capitals, and also working domestically with the Lions. When we met at the Lions, he was always one of those youngsters who was extremely eager to learn and to try new things. I think that's so important for anybody who wants to try and play all formats successfully. There's a type of mental elasticity you need to have to be able to go from format to format. That also has to come into your training and your ability to work with different plans. The switch between different plans has to happen quickly. From the time we met, he always had that eagerness to learn and to explore these things, Amla told SA20. The Proteas legend, with 18672 runs in all international formats, believes Esterhuizens capacity to absorb information distinguishes him from others. He's one of those players who, when you watch them early on, you think, 'Oh, he's got something.' His growth has been very quick. That is something very nice to see, because when someone is hungry to learn - like all youngsters - they will receive a lot of information. I suppose one of the skills you have to learn is how to filter the information you receive, Amla said. Once you experiment with it, you have to quickly understand what works within your game and what doesn't. His call-up to the national team was not a surprise because he did really well in four-day cricket, and he had a good T20 competition with the Lions as well. It was no surprise; he's one of those players who has been consistently scoring runs, so he was bound to get a call-up. I think he embodies the modern-day player. He has the attributes of the modern-day player. He's got a good technique, but he can hit a long ball. After spending time at Surrey, a prominent English County Championship team, during the final parts of his playing career, Amla observed England wicketkeeper Jamie Smith's rise at The Oval and believed Esterhuizen could similarly succeed in international cricket. If you think of someone like Jamie Smith, for example, from England, he's also a very young player. When I started at Surrey, he was a youngster coming through, and he had similar attributes, Amla said . He had a good technique, was very strong, and could hit boundaries. That type of player now, you see them in Test cricket, fulfilling that role in the middle order where they can take the game away. Connor is, in a way, similar to that. He has a good enough techniqueor quite a good techniqueto handle a moving ball, but once an opportunity comes for them to score, it's hard to stop them, he added. There has been much debate about the ideal position for Esterhuizen in the batting order. While at MI Cape Town, he was used as a finisher, but with the Capitals, he was moved up the batting lineup. Esterhuizen has stated that he currently has no preferred position, and Amla considers this flexibility to enhance his market value. He's one of those players who we felt could play anywhere from 1 to 6. Even with the Lions, from 1 to 6, he can fit anywhere, Amla said . There has been much debate about the ideal position for Esterhuizen in the batting order. While at MI Cape Town, he was used as a finisher, but with the Capitals, he was moved up the batting lineup. Esterhuizen has stated that he currently has no preferred position, and Amla considers this flexibility to enhance his market value. Also Read: Live Cricket Score He's got the strength for that. To find the best position for him, I would say looking at a No. 4 position might be a buffer between the top order and the middle order, Amla stated. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: When And Where To Watch LSG Vs KKR, Know All Details

Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari: Lucknow Super Giants are set to face Kolkata Knight Riders in their eighth match of the Indian Premier League 2026 season on Sunday evening at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium. LSG head into the fixture after a setback against Rajasthan Royals, a result that has put them under pressure in the standings. Despite the loss, there were encouraging signs from the bowling unit, which delivered disciplined performances. Mohammed Shami, Prince Yadav and Mohsin Khan stood out with economical spells. Led by Rishabh Pant, the Super Giants have had an inconsistent first half of the campaign and now face a crucial phase. With seven league matches remaining, the team will be aiming to string together victories to keep their playoff hopes alive. Their previous encounter with Kolkata produced a nail-biting finish, with Lucknow edging out a three-wicket win off the final delivery. On that occasion, Mukul Choudhary played a match-winning knock of 54 not out from just 27 balls, smashing seven sixes to guide his side home in dramatic fashion. For Kolkata, concerns remain around their bowling resources. Injuries to key pacers Harshit Rana and Akash Deep have weakened the attack, while experienced campaigners Sunil Narine and Varun Chakravarthy have yet to consistently hit top form. However, Chakravarthy showed signs of resurgence recently with a three-wicket haul against Rajasthan, offering some optimism for the defending champions. When: Sunday, April 26, 7:30 PM IST Where: Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow Where to watch: The LSG vs KKR match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Squads: Where to watch: The LSG vs KKR match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Kolkata Knight Riders: Ajinkya Rahane (c), Manish Pandey, Rovman Powell, Angkrish Raghuvanshi (wk), Ramandeep Singh, Rinku Singh, Sunil Narine, Anukul Roy, Vaibhav Arora, Harshit Rana, Umran Malik, Varun Chakaravarthy, Cameron Green, Finn Allen, Matheesha Pathirana, Kartik Tyagi, Rahul Tripathi, Tim Seifert, Tejasvi Dahiya, Sarthak Ranjan, Rachin Ravindra, Akash Deep, Prashant Solanki, Daksh Kamra Article Source: IANS

DC bat against PBKS in Delhi; both teams unchanged

PBKS captain Shreyas Iyer said he was looking to bowl first anyway

Delhi HC Grants Injunction In Favour Of LSG Owner Sanjiv Goenka In Personality Rights Case

The Delhi High Court: The Delhi High Court has granted an ex parte ad-interim injunction in favour of Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) owner and industrialist Sanjiv Goenka, restraining unauthorised use of his name, image and other personality attributes across digital platforms, including content generated using artificial intelligence (AI). A single-judge Bench of Justice Tushar Rao Gedela passed the interim order while hearing a commercial suit filed by Goenka against Google LLC and other intermediaries, alleging large-scale misuse of his persona through defamatory and misleading content on social media platforms. In its order, the Delhi High Court observed that Goenka had made out a prima facie strong case and held the balance of convenience lay in his favour, adding that failure to grant interim relief could cause irreparable injury to his reputation. It further recorded that the plaintiff is a distinguished and internationally recognized business leader, philanthropist, and a visionary entrepreneur who heads the RP-Sanjiv Goenka Group, a multi-billion dollar conglomerate with diversified business interests. The suit alleged that various social media posts, videos and AI-generated content were misusing Goenkas identity, portraying him in a derogatory manner, spreading fake news and causing reputational harm. Referring to the material placed on record, the Delhi High Court said that several posts and video reels were downright derogatory and use expletives, which are unpalatable in any civil society, and went beyond permissible parody. The nature of the contents do not fall within the ambit of mere parody, lampooning or caricature many of them infringe on the plaintiff's personality rights, particularly those which are generated by AI, the order said. Justice Gedela also observed that several posts and video reels placed on record were distasteful and portrayed the plaintiff in a poor light, while also appearing to spread fake information. Referring to several precedents, the judge said, The right of publicity protects against the unauthorised appropriation of an individual's very persona which would result in unearned commercial gain to another. In its directions, the Delhi High Court restrained unknown defendants (John Doe entities) and others from using or exploiting Goenkas name including variants such as Sanjeev Goenka and S. Goenka as well as his image, likeness and other identifiable attributes without authorisation, including through technologies such as AI, deepfakes, machine learning and chatbots. Justice Gedela also observed that several posts and video reels placed on record were distasteful and portrayed the plaintiff in a poor light, while also appearing to spread fake information. Referring to several precedents, the judge said, The right of publicity protects against the unauthorised appropriation of an individual's very persona which would result in unearned commercial gain to another. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Justice Gedela has listed the matter before the Joint Registrar on July 16 for completion of pleadings and before the Delhi High Court on September 18 for further hearing. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Both Teams Unchanged As DC Elect To Bat First Against PBKS

Both Delhi Capitals: Both Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings are unchanged as hosts captain Axar Patel won the toss and elected to bat first in match 35 of IPL 2026 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Saturday. While table-toppers PBKS are the lone unbeaten team in the tournament, DC have three wins and as many losses to be at sixth spot. It looks a bit dry and obviously its a day game, and its quite hot as well. So were thinking of putting up a good total first and then trying to defend it. Yes, from the looks of it, it seems like it will slow down a bit later, and the bowlers might get some help as well. So we want to post a good total first and give the bowlers a chance to make use of any assistance from the wicket, said Axar after winning the toss. He also talked about DCs intent to not make any silly mistakes in this clash. We want to focus on ourselves. Every team we are playing is playing good cricket. We have also been playing good cricket, but the thing is that in crucial moments, I think we are not winning those moments in the game. We are making silly mistakes, and if we correct those, I think we will be back on track. If consistency comes in, and if we fix the small mistakes we are making in the field or in taking decisions at crucial times, then I think we will be on the winning side most of the time. PBKS skipper Shreyas Iyer, whos playing an IPL game in the national capital for the first time after 2019, said he too would have bowled first if the toss had gone his way. I would love to bowl, but thankfully, I had a small discussion with Axar before the toss. He said that he's going to bat, so I was happy that we are going to bowl and the toss was inconsequential, he said. He also spoke about the need to be in the present and being better in that moment. It's important to stay in the moment, that's how you want the environment to be. I personally feel you just have to keep training harder and keep getting better every now and then, better than the previous performance. That's what I keep telling my teammates as well. We need to inculcate the right habits in the dressing room and culture that we've been building so far. It has been, touch wood, going great. We just have to keep enjoying the game and have fun along with each other. Saturdays game will be played on pitch number six, with square boundary dimensions of 67 and 59 metres respectively, while the straight boundary stands at 73 metres. In his pitch report, Simon Katich said the pitch appears rock hard with little grass cover. He also opined that given the scorching heat, this contest could be a low-scoring one as the pitch is expected to slow down and assist spin as the game progresses. The outfield, however, remains lightning quick. Playing XIs Delhi Capitals: KL Rahul (wk), Pathum Nissanka, Sameer Rizvi, Axar Patel (captain), Nitish Rana, Tristan Stubbs, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Kuldeep Yadav, T Natarajan, and Mukesh Kumar Impact Substitutes: Vipraj Nigam, Karun Nair, Dushmantha Chameera, Ashutosh Sharma, and Auqib Nabi Dar Delhi Capitals: KL Rahul (wk), Pathum Nissanka, Sameer Rizvi, Axar Patel (captain), Nitish Rana, Tristan Stubbs, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Kuldeep Yadav, T Natarajan, and Mukesh Kumar Also Read: Live Cricket Score Impact Substitutes: Nehal Wadhera, Harpreet Brar, Suryansh Shedge, Yash Thakur, and Vishnu Vinod Article Source: IANS

Sai Sudharsan has his 'limitations' but he 'did his part' against RCB

The other guys around him have to come in and strike at, maybe, 160, 170 and above, Ian Bishop says of the Gujarat Titans batting plan

Nahida Akter, Sarmin Sultana Fined For ICC Code Of Conduct Breach In Second WODI Vs SL

Emirates ICC International Panel: Bangladesh cricketers Nahida Akter and Sarmin Sultana have been fined 10 per cent of their match fees for separate Level 1 breaches of the ICC Code of Conduct during the second ODI of the ICC Womens Championship series against Sri Lanka. The sanctions were imposed following incidents during the match in Rajshahi, where both players were found to have committed offences under different articles of the Code. Nahida breached Article 2.5, which pertains to using language, actions or gestures which disparage or which could provoke an aggressive reaction from a batter upon his/her dismissal during an International Match. Sarmin, meanwhile, was found guilty under Article 2.8, which relates to showing dissent at an Umpires decision during an International Match. In addition to the fines, both players have received one demerit point each on their disciplinary records. It marks their first offence within a 24-month period. The incidents occurred in consecutive phases of the match. Nahida gave a send-off to Sri Lanka captain Chamari Athapaththu after dismissing her in the 17th over, gesturing towards the pavilion. Earlier, in the 16th over of Bangladeshs innings, Sarmin showed visible dissent after being adjudged LBW, pointing towards her bat and delaying her departure from the crease. The charges were levelled by the on-field umpiring team comprising Eloise Sheridan and Rokeya Sultana, along with third umpire Dolly Rani Sarkar and fourth umpire Shathira Jakir Jesy. Both players admitted their respective offences and accepted the sanctions proposed by match referee Supriya Rani Das of the Emirates ICC International Panel; hence, no formal hearings were required. The incidents occurred in consecutive phases of the match. Nahida gave a send-off to Sri Lanka captain Chamari Athapaththu after dismissing her in the 17th over, gesturing towards the pavilion. Earlier, in the 16th over of Bangladeshs innings, Sarmin showed visible dissent after being adjudged LBW, pointing towards her bat and delaying her departure from the crease. Also Read: Live Cricket Score On the field, Sri Lanka bounced back strongly in the contest, clinching the second ODI to level the three-match series 1-1 and set up a decider. The two sides are currently playing the series decider, underway at the Shahid Kamruzzaman Stadium in Rajshahi, Bangladesh. Article Source: IANS

Gavaskar Blames Dropped Kohli Catch for GTs Loss as RCB Seal Chase

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar believes Gujarat Titans paid a heavy price for dropping Virat Kohli, early in the chase, that helped Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) seal a five-wicket win. After being put in to bat, GT posted a competitive 205/3, but a crucial moment unfolded in the very first over of RCBs chase when Kohli was dropped on zero by Washington Sundar off the bowling of Mohammed Siraj. The missed opportunity proved decisive as Kohli went on to anchor the chase with a brilliant 81 off 44 balls, guiding the defending champions towards victory. That dropped catch of Virat Kohli off Sirajs bowling definitely cost Gujarat Titans a lot. We all know he is not just known as a king. He is known as a chase master as well. He loves these kinds of situations where he comes in to bat, knows the target, and can play according to the situation, Gavaskar told JioStar, reacting to the turning point of the game. Speaking about the impact of the early reprieve, he added, You drop him on the first ball, then he will definitely make you pay. That is exactly what he did. After that dropped catch, what a knock he has played. Kohlis innings not only laid the foundation for the chase but also saw him achieve milestones, becoming the first player to reach 800 fours in IPL history and only the third to hit 300 sixes in the tournament. Gavaskar further highlighted Kohlis mastery in run chases, stating, Chasing down huge totals with ease has been Virats trademark batting style throughout his career. GT must be thinking about that dropped catch. At one point in the run chase, when the spinners were bowling, the ball was gripping a bit. It would not have been that easy once the ball got a little older. But this man is one of the greatest in the game. He made it look easy. In addition to Kohlis brilliance, Gavaskar also praised Devdutt Padikkal for his aggressive approach in the middle overs, where he scored a quickfire 55 to keep RCB ahead of the required rate. Devdutt Padikkal played an excellent innings. Virat Kohli rightly pointed out after the match that Padikkal has been hitting some very clean cricketing shots. Earlier, he was seen as an off-side player. His main scoring areas were cover and mid-off. He used to struggle on the on-side. But now he has overcome that limitation. He is hitting sixes and boundaries behind square as well, Gavaskar said. In addition to Kohlis brilliance, Gavaskar also praised Devdutt Padikkal for his aggressive approach in the middle overs, where he scored a quickfire 55 to keep RCB ahead of the required rate. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With contributions from both Kohli and Padikkal proving vital, RCB continued their strong run in the tournament, capitalising on key moments to outplay GT in a high-scoring encounter. Article Source: IANS

'Everything has to come to an end': Samit Patel bows out of English cricket after 24 years

Spinning allrounder reflects on formidable career, as he targets future role as coach ... and maybe selector

Krunal Pandya on India Dream, Pressure Handling After Match-Winning RCB Cameo

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) all-rounder Krunal Pandya reflected on his ultimate goal, stating that his aim has always been to play for India and stated that theres no better feeling than donning the national jersey. He also spoke about handling pressure situations and the importance of experience after playing a decisive cameo in his teams five-wicket win over the Gujarat Titans in their recently concluded IPL 2026 match at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. Chasing a stiff target of 206, RCB rode on a commanding 81 from Virat Kohli and a blistering 55 by Devdutt Padikkal to stay on course. However, a mini-collapse in the latter stages left the side needing composure in the death overs before Krunal stepped up with an unbeaten 23 off 12 balls to seal the chase on Friday. Walking in at a tense juncture, Krunal admitted the pressure was palpable, especially given his limited time in the middle this season. There was pressure. Obviously, this was the 7th or 8th match, and before this game, I had played only two innings with the bat. Sometimes, when theres no continuity, you can suddenly get into a pressure situation, Krunal told JioHotstar. He added that his versatility and experience across batting positions helped him stay composed. But Ive been doing this role for a long time, from No. 3 to No. 8. So, whatever experience I have, I try to use it, and I try to be as calm and present as possible in that situation, he said. Krunals counterattack came at a crucial moment when RCB needed quick runs to regain control of the chase. In the 18th over, he took on left-arm spinner Manav Suthar, smashing boundaries and a six to shift momentum decisively in RCB's favour. Speaking about his aspirations beyond the IPL, Krunal reiterated his desire to return to international cricket. Theres nothing bigger than playing in the blue jersey once again. My goal has always been to play for India. But again, what do I have in my control? Consistent performances and how I win games for my team, thats what I try to focus on, he expressed. Krunal emphasised the role of handling pressure and personal growth in shaping his approach, saying, Ive always enjoyed pressure situations. Ive learned a lot from my life in cricket, because you only have one brain and you use the same brain in life and in sports. So, Ive always focused on how I can get better as a person, and that is the reason Im able to play cricket this way. Krunal also spoke about evolving as a bowler in the fast-changing T20 landscape, where batters are constantly innovating. Every year, batting is evolving at such a pace that you genuinely feel, while standing on your mark, 'Where will you bowl?' Because you feel like the batter can hit you anywhere. Krunal emphasised the role of handling pressure and personal growth in shaping his approach, saying, Ive always enjoyed pressure situations. Ive learned a lot from my life in cricket, because you only have one brain and you use the same brain in life and in sports. So, Ive always focused on how I can get better as a person, and that is the reason Im able to play cricket this way. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Krunal further acknowledged the backing of RCBs spin-bowling coach Malolan Rangarajan in helping him develop his craft. I felt that last year was very good for me, so coming into this season, I was thinking about what else I can add to my bowling. A lot of credit goes to our spin-bowling coach, Malolan, who has left me free. He has backed me a lot and gave me confidence. So, that also makes a difference, he mentioned. Article Source: IANS

Suryakumar, Iyer, Dube Headline T20 Mumbai League 2026 Retention List

Triumph Knights Mumbai North East: The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) has unveiled a star-studded list of player retentions featuring India captain Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer and Shivam Dube for the T20 Mumbai League 2026. With elite performers such as U-19 World Cup-winning captain Ayush Mhatre, Shardul Thakur, Tushar Deshpande and Sarfaraz Khan retained, and Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ajinkya Rahane allotted as Icon Players, franchises have secured a formidable core, underlining the leagues growing stature and competitive edge. Each of the eight teams retained three players, striking a strategic balance between international experience and emerging domestic talent as the league builds towards a high-octane fourth season. Triumph Knights Mumbai North East have retained Suryakumar (Icon Player), who led India to the T20 World Cup 2026 title, alongside Ayush and Suryansh Shedge, while last seasons runners-up SoBo Mumbai Falcons have secured Shreyas (Icon Player), Angkrish Raghuvanshi and Harsh Aghav. Defending champions Mumbai South Central Maratha Royals have retained Tushar (Icon Player), with Siddhesh Lad and Rohan Raje forming a settled core. Bandra Blasters have been allotted Yashasvi as their Icon Player, with Suved Parkar and Dhrumil Matkar also retained, while ARCS Andheri have retained Shivam (Icon Player) alongside Pragnesh Kanpillewar and Deepak Shetty. Aakash Tigers Mumbai Western Suburbs have secured Sarfaraz (Icon Player), supported by Shams Mulani and Jay Bista. North Mumbai Panthers have been allotted Icon Player Ajinkya, joined by retained players Abhigyan Kundu and Tanush Kotian, while Eagle Thane Strikers have placed their faith in Shardul (Icon Player) alongside Atharva Ankolekar and Sairaj Patil. Several of the retained players are proven performers in the Indian Premier League and on the international stage, adding significant depth and star appeal to the competition. MCA President Ajinkya Naik said, This is a strong statement of intent from all franchises. The retention of some of the biggest names in Indian cricket reflects the strength and credibility the T20 Mumbai League has built over the years. At the same time, the opportunity for young and emerging players to share the dressing room with such established stars is invaluable for their growth and development. With such a high-quality core in place, we are set for a season that will raise the bar in terms of competitiveness and overall standard of cricket. Rajdip Gupta, Chairman of the League Governing Council, added, These retentions underline the strategic clarity of franchises and the depth of talent available in Mumbai. The mix of established stars and emerging players will make this one of the most exciting seasons yet. The retention strategy clearly reflects the intent of teams to build continuity while maintaining a high-performance environment. Since its inception in 2018, the T20 Mumbai League has emerged as a key platform for talent identification and progression, with several players going on to represent Mumbai, feature in the Indian Premier League and earn national honours. With the retention phase complete, focus now shifts to the upcoming player auction, as franchises look to build on their strong core and assemble squads capable of competing for the title in what promises to be a blockbuster 2026 season. The dates and details for the auction will be announced soon. List of Retained Players: Aakash Tigers Mumbai Western Suburbs: Sarfaraz Khan (Icon Player), Shams Mulani and Jay Bista ARCS Andheri: Shivam Dube (Icon Player), Pragnesh Kanpillewar and Deepak Shetty Bandra Blasters: Yashasvi Jaiswal (Icon Player), Suved Parkar and Dhrumil Matkar Mumbai South Central Maratha Royals: Tushar Deshpande (Icon Player), Siddhesh Lad and Rohan Raje North Mumbai Panthers: Ajinkya Rahane (Icon Player), Abhigyan Kundu and Tanush Kotian SoBo Mumbai Falcons: Shreyas Iyer (Icon Player), Angkrish Raghuvanshi and Harsh Aghav North Mumbai Panthers: Ajinkya Rahane (Icon Player), Abhigyan Kundu and Tanush Kotian Also Read: Live Cricket Score Triumph Knights Mumbai North East: Suryakumar Yadav (Icon Player), Ayush Mhatre and Suryansh Shedge Article Source: IANS

KL Rahul Eyes Must-Win Approach as Delhi Capitals Gear Up for Crucial Home Clashes

Delhi Capitals (DC) wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul has emphasised the importance of maintaining a must-win mindset as the side prepares for crucial back-to-back home fixtures against the Punjab Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru at their home ground- the Arun Jaitley Stadium. DC are currently placed sixth in the points table with three wins and three losses from six matches. They began their campaign with consecutive victories over Lucknow Super Giants and Mumbai Indians, before suffering back-to-back defeats against Gujarat Titans and Chennai Super Kings. While they bounced back with an away win over Royal Challengers Bengaluru, a third loss in their campaign in their previous game against Sunrisers Hyderabad has left them looking to regain consistency. Personally, I always take every game as a must-win game and for me I'm pumped that the next two games are against teams that are sitting very comfortably at 1 and 2 in the table, Rahul said in a video shared by Star Sports on X ahead of their clash against PBKS. Highlighting the value of testing themselves against the strongest sides, he added, So, like I said, you want to challenge yourself against the best teams and for us as a team, I think beating RCB and Chinnaswamy gave us a lot of confidence because they're a really good team. Punjab Kings, who currently sit atop the standings, have been one of the standout teams this season, and Rahul acknowledged the challenge they pose. Punjab right now are playing some exceptional cricket. They seem unbeatable at the moment. So, that's what is challenging and that's what is exciting for us to take it on ourselves to see how we can put pressure on Punjab early in the game and see how we can get two points. The wicketkeeper-batter stressed that wins against top teams could significantly boost the squads belief and standing. That will give us tremendous confidence and then from there, we'll go on to RCB and if we can get back-to-back wins, that will obviously give us points and help us sit pretty in the table but also give us that confidence within the group that there's no doubt that we have the skill and we have the talent and we have everything that is required for us to be a champion team, he said. Rahul further underlined the importance of translating potential into results. Only when that translates to performance and victories against good teams, that's when you start feeling confident and you sort of get a little bit of arrogance which you need in today's game and in modern T20 game, you need a bit of arrogance to walk in there telling the opposition that we're too good, we feel like we can beat anybody on a given day or even if we don't have a good day, we'll still beat you. The wicketkeeper-batter stressed that wins against top teams could significantly boost the squads belief and standing. That will give us tremendous confidence and then from there, we'll go on to RCB and if we can get back-to-back wins, that will obviously give us points and help us sit pretty in the table but also give us that confidence within the group that there's no doubt that we have the skill and we have the talent and we have everything that is required for us to be a champion team, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With Punjab Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru occupying the top two spots respectively, Delhi Capitals will be aiming to make the most of their home advantage and climb up the table in what promises to be a defining phase of their campaign. Article Source: IANS

Steyn in awe of Kohli's ability to find 'a road to get to the final runs'

When you see someone really so driven and so passionate about the game, it really rubs off to everybody in the side, Devdutt Padikkal says about Virat Kohli

Former New Zealand Cricketer Bracewell Given 2 Year Ban For Cocaine Use

Former New Zealand and Essex all-rounder Doug Bracewell has been given a two-year suspension after testing positive for cocaine during an English County Championship match last year. Bracewell's positive test came on September 25, 2025 while he was playing for Essex against Somerset at Chelmsford. The 35-year-old admitted using cocaine after the first day of the fixture and in the early hours of the morning prior to the second day's play. After being notified of the positive test, Bracewell retired from cricket on December 28. Despite his retirement, Bracewell, who had signed for Essex for the final three Championship matches of last season, was still issued with the two-year ban by the Cricket Regulator. He previously served a one-month ban in 2024 after testing positive for cocaine during New Zealand's 'Super Smash' Twenty20 event. The two-year suspension is backdated to November 24, 2025, the date of his provisional ban, and will run until November 23, 2027. Bracewell, who played in 69 matches for New Zealand across all formats, has accepted the ban and Essex will not face punishment. Essex can confirm that Doug Bracewell failed a routine drugs test in September 2025, the club said in a statement on Friday. The club supports the Cricket Regulator's decision to impose a period of ineligibility of two years. All employees are required to meet the highest standards of professional conduct. Also Read: Live Cricket Score While the club does not condone Bracewell's behaviour, we are committed to supporting him through rehabilitation in line with our policies and procedures.

United book playoffs berth after routing Kingsmen for 80

Kingsmen will now compete for the fourth playoffs spot with Lahore Qalandars and Karachi Kings

Carlos Alcaraz withdraws from 2026 French Open as wrist injury dashes three-peat dreams

Alcaraz's absence boosts Jannik Sinner's chances for a Career Slam

DC vs PBKS Match 35, IPL 2026: Preview, Predicted XIs, Player Tips & Match Prediction

DC vs PBKS Match 35 , Cricket Tips : Punjab Kings have been unstoppable in the IPL 2026 so far. They are the only team without a defeat in the IPL 2026 and are a few wins away from making it to the playoffs. PBKS will now take on Delhi Capitals in an away game. This encounter has a scheduled start of 3:30 PM IST at Arun Jaitley Stadium on Saturday afternoon. PBKS will look to stay at the top of the table. DC faced a defeat against SRH in the last game. They made several errors, and it cost them the game. So, they will be keen to address the issues and come hard. DC vs PBKS: Match Details Date : April 25, 2026 (Saturday) Time : 3:30 PM IST Venue : Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi DC vs PBKS Live Streaming Details Indian fans can tune into Star Sports Network to watch the live action of the game. Fans can also enjoy the live stream on the Jio Hotstar app or website. DC vs PBKS Head-to-Head in IPL Total Matches : 35 DC : 17 PBKS : 17 No - Result : 01 DC vs PBKS: Ground Pitch Report The wicket in Delhi is very flat and helpful for the batters. There is nothing for the bowlers in this wicket. This is a high-scoring venue, and the par score here in the IPL is around 190-200. Batting second will be a good option, because of the weather and pitch conditions. DC vs PBKS Possible XIs DC : KL Rahul (wk), Pathum Nissanka, Nitish Rana, Axar Patel (c), Sameer Rizvi, Tristan Stubbs, David Miller, Kuldeep Yadav, Lungi Ngidi, T Natarajan, Mukesh Kumar PBKS : Shreyas Iyer (c), Prabhsimran Singh (wk), Priyansh Arya, Cooper Connolly, Shashank Singh, Marcus Stoinis, Marco Jansen, Xavier Bartlett ,Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Vijaykumar Vyshak DC vs PBKS Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Priyansh Arya and KL Rahul will be the two batters to watch out for from both teams. Probable Best Bowler Lungi Ngidi has bowled well and will be the key bowler for DC. For PBKS, Arshdeep Singh's role with the new ball will be important. Today Match Prediction : DC have not been consistent this season. Hence, we predict PBKS, who are in good form, to win this game. DC vs PBKS Match 35, IPL 2026, Today 2026 Match, DC vs PBKS 2026 Prediction, DC vs PBKS Predicted XIs, Injury Update for DC vs PBKS 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.

Kohli, Padikkal hit fifties as RCB ace the chase against GT

Sai Sudharsan's century in vain for GT as they slump to their fourth defeat

Hammond hundred lifts Gloucestershire as Bashir shines again

Derbyshire allrounder Anuj Dal taken to hospital after suffering ankle injury during morning session

Barnard, Woakes lead Warwickshire fightback as Tongue claims five

Notts pushed back after making early inroads as visiting skipper notches unbeaten hundred

IPL 2026: I've Been Working Hard To Get Where I Am, Says Devdutt Padikkal After Fiery Fifty Vs GT

Indian Premier League: Devdutt Padikkals comeback continued to gain steam as his impressive 55 off 27 balls set the stage for Royal Challengers Bengalurus five-wicket victory over Gujarat Titans in the Indian Premier League 2026 at M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Friday. Reflecting on his return to form, Padikkal emphasised the effort behind the scenes. Feels great. I've been working hard to get where I am, and I'm glad its paying off. I think a lot of this is thanks to the self-belief that the management has given me. At the same time, Ive made some technical changes in the past few years. You have to stick to those changes. Now I am seeing the results. Chasing a tough target of 205, RCB needed a strong start, and Padikkal delivered just that. He took on the pace of Kagiso Rabada and Mohammed Siraj confidently, hitting boundaries and maintaining the required run rate. One shot stood outa beautiful lofted drive over extra coverwhich he highlighted: It was probably my favourite shot of the day for sure. Padikkal approached the innings with a clear strategy rather than recklessness. At the end of the day, I need to play according to the situation and assess whats happening out there. We were chasing 210, so we needed to make the most of the Power-play and keep the momentum going for the next few overs, he explained. This clarity showed as he dominated the middle overs, taking apart Prasidh Krishna and applying pressure on Rashid Khan with a mix of sweeps and lofted shots. Chasing a tough target of 205, RCB needed a strong start, and Padikkal delivered just that. He took on the pace of Kagiso Rabada and Mohammed Siraj confidently, hitting boundaries and maintaining the required run rate. One shot stood outa beautiful lofted drive over extra coverwhich he highlighted: It was probably my favourite shot of the day for sure. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Looking ahead, Padikkal expressed his desire to contribute more significantly. I want to help finish games, so hopefully I can do that soon, he said, while also recognising the depth of talent that gives him freedom to perform at the top. We've seen what Tim, Romario, and Jitesh can do down the order, so with that kind of firepower, you can feel free to go out and express yourself. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: We Needed To Take Wickets, Says GT Skipper Gill After Five-wicket Defeat Vs RCB

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Shubman Gill did not shy away from pinpointing where the game slipped for the Gujarat Titans after their five-wicket defeat against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the 34th match of the Indian Premier League (2026) at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Friday. Definitely. From the 16th to the 19th, those three overs, we couldn't get any boundaries. Those overs were crucial for us. At the end of the Power-play, we were in a good situation. We needed to take wickets, he said. I mean, when a batsman gets dropped on nought, it's always tough on the fielder. But it's about how you come back in the game. We had our moments. But we weren't able to hit the right lengths consistently, which was important. But they batted very well in the middle overs. The dropped chance he referred to allowed Virat Kohli to flourish, and the veteran made GT pay with a commanding 81 off 44 balls. Alongside him, Devdutt Padikkal produced a stunning 55 off 27, dismantling the attack through the middle overs. Their partnership ensured RCB stayed ahead of the asking rate, even as GTs bowlers searched for control. Gill admitted there was some assistance in the pitch, particularly from Krunal Pandyas bowling: When we were batting, the balls that Krunal bowled, it was gripping a bit. I thought if we could get a few wickets, we would come back in the game. Earlier, the Gujarat Titans had posted a formidable 205/3, powered by a superb century from Sai Sudharsan, who struck 100 off 58 balls and became the fastest to 2000 IPL runs. Contributions from Gill and Jos Buttler added heft, but the total ultimately proved insufficient. Alongside him, Devdutt Padikkal produced a stunning 55 off 27, dismantling the attack through the middle overs. Their partnership ensured RCB stayed ahead of the asking rate, even as GTs bowlers searched for control. Gill admitted there was some assistance in the pitch, particularly from Krunal Pandyas bowling: When we were batting, the balls that Krunal bowled, it was gripping a bit. I thought if we could get a few wickets, we would come back in the game. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Gill also hinted at expectations from his top order moving forward: He was quite upset with the way he got out in the previous game. But in the upcoming games, hopefully, he gives me some more strike in the Power-play. It was a telling note from a captain whose side had their chancesbut were ultimately outplayed in the moments that mattered most. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Kohli, Padikkal Guide RCB To Five-wicket Victory Over GT

Impact Player Jacob Bethell: Veteran Virat Kohli (81) and Devdutt Padikkal (55) led a strong charge as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) surged to a five-wicket victory over the Gujarat Titans (GT) in Match 34 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Friday. RCBs reply got a lucky break early on when Kohli, trying his signature flick off Mohammed Siraj, hit it too high and was dropped by Washington Sundar at short midwicket. This mistake proved costly. Kohli quickly found his rhythm, while Impact Player Jacob Bethell had a brief moment of luck before he edged one to backward point and fell to Kagiso Rabada. Padikkal wasted no time making an impact. He took on Rabadas pace, which was clocked at 153.6 kph, hitting a six over deep square leg. He then punished Siraj for his mistakes with boundaries and a lofted six over extra cover. Kohli joined in soon after, stepping down the track against Rabada and scoring his 800th IPL four, becoming the first batter to hit this milestone. The momentum swung as Padikkal dominated the middle overs, taking apart Prasidh Krishna with a series of boundaries and sixes, including a flick, a pull, and a loft over long-off. He then targeted Rashid Khan, launching him for six over long-off and sweeping for another six, bringing up a blazing half-century off just 30 balls. At one point, he raced to 50 in only 20 deliveries. Meanwhile, Kohli made the most of his early chance. He reached a significant milestone by pulling Rashid for his 300th IPL six, joining an elite group behind only Rohit Sharma and Chris Gayle. Not willing to take a back seat, Kohli attacked Rabada, hitting a flick for four and a towering six over deep midwicket, which kept the required rate manageable. Padikkal's innings ended on 55 off 27 balls when Rashid fooled him with a googly that clipped the bails. However, Kohli continued, taking on Jason Holder with two consecutive sixesone a powerful flick over deep midwicket and the other lofted over mid-off. The veteran eventually fell for 81 off 44 balls, chopping a slower ball from Holder onto his stumps. By then, RCB had taken control of the chase, scoring quickly and staying well ahead in their pursuit. Earlier, the Gujarat Titans set a competitive total of 205/3, highlighted by a brilliant century by Sai Sudharsan. The left-hander overcame a tough start against Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood, who both extracted movement and bounce, before seizing control as the conditions improved. Sudharsan raced to 41 off 27 balls, helping GT to 57/0 in the powerplay. He reached his half-century in 33 balls and continued to dominate the middle overs with a mix of creative strokes and calculated aggression. A standout moment occurred when he uppercut Krunal Pandya for six and followed it with a slog sweep to reach his 2000th IPL run, becoming the fastest to this milestone in 47 innings, ahead of Gayle, Shaun Marsh, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and KL Rahul. Sudharsan eventually fell for an excellent 100 off 58 balls to Hazlewood, ending hopes for a late surge. Contributions from Shubman Gill and Jos Buttler, along with a late push from Holder and Washington Sundar, ensured GT crossed the 200-mark. However, RCBs aggressive response, led by Kohli and Padikkal, kept them ahead in what became a high-scoring contest. Rajat Patidar and Jitesh Sharma tried to end things quickly by hitting sixes off Rashid Khan, but the leg-spinner fought back by having Jitesh caught in the covers. From the other end, left-arm spinner Manav Suthar tricked Patidar in the air, getting him to hit a miscue to extra cover and leaving RCB five down. Krunal Pandya took charge just when the chase looked like it might fall apart. In the 18th over, he hit back-to-back boundaries and then a huge six over deep midwicket to start a decisive counterattack against Suthar. Krunal's unbeaten 23 off 12 balls, which included 17 runs in the over, helped RCB win the game by five wickets. Rajat Patidar and Jitesh Sharma tried to end things quickly by hitting sixes off Rashid Khan, but the leg-spinner fought back by having Jitesh caught in the covers. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Gujarat Titans 205/3 in 20 overs (Sai Sudharsan 100, Shubman Gill 32; Bhuvneshwar Kumar 1-31, Suyash Sharma 1-36) lost to Royal Challengers Bengaluru 206/5 in 18.5 overs (Virat Kohli 81, Devdutt Padikkal 55; Rashid Khan 2-49, Jason Holder 1-28) by five wickets. Article Source: IANS

DC have lots of catching up to do to give PBKS a fight

Rehan Ahmed has joined Delhi Capitals whereas Cooper Connolly is available for Punjab Kings after a quick trip to Australia

Cummins set to return and take back SRH captaincy

Parag's form under the scanner as RR host SRH in Jaipur

IPL 2026: Sudharsans Ton Lifts GT To 205/3 Against RCB

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Sai Sudharsan anchored Gujarat Titans' (GT) innings with an impressive 100 off 58 balls and helped visitors put up a competitive total of 205/3 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the 34th match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Friday. Sudharsan started a bit shaky when Bhuvneshwar Kumar got the ball to move away, creating a thick outside edge that went past the short third for four. On the other end, Josh Hazlewood made things tough early on. He hit Sudharsan on the pads and repeatedly beat his outside edge, with Sudharsan often late on his shots. However, as the initial movement faded, Sudharsan began to settle, steering one deliberately past the short third and punching another through the covers to find his rhythm. The breakthrough came in the fifth over when Sudharsan hit the first six of the innings. After scooping Hazlewood past the keeper for four, he cut the seamer over cover-point for a maximum and followed it up by slicing another boundary behind point, racing to 41 off 27 balls while Shubman Gill had faced just three deliveries. The Gujarat Titans finished the Power-play strongly at 57/0, with Sudharsan in control. He kept attacking, facing Rasikh Salam with successive boundariesa pull and a cutwhile ensuring the scoring rate stayed above 10 runs per over. Gill contributed with a boundary in the final over of the Power-play, but the focus remained firmly on Sudharsan. Even when Krunal Pandya tried to tighten things briefly with variations in pace and angle, Sudharsan smartly rotated the strike to prevent any slowdown. The left-hander brought up his half-century in style, reaching 50 off just 33 balls with a scoop for six off Romario Shepherd, followed by a sharp boundary through covers. The over became the most expensive of the innings as Gill joined in with a classic pull. Sudharsan then delivered one of the highlights of the innings by uppercutting Krunal for a six over deep thirdan audacious shotbefore slog-sweeping another maximum to mark his 2000th IPL run. He became the fastest to reach this milestone in 47 innings, surpassing Chris Gayle (48), with Shaun Marsh (52), Ruturaj Gaikwad (57), and KL Rahul (60) following behind. Sudharsan kept the momentum going into the middle overs, hitting Suyash Sharma for a six over wide long-off and smashing a straight drive that struck the bowler, briefly stopping play. Suyash returned to dismiss Gill with a googly, caught at long-on. Jos Buttler, in his 500th T20 match, added some energy with 17 off nine balls, including a four and a six. Hazlewood eventually ended Sudharsans excellent innings by forcing a mistimed pull that resulted in a return catch. With Sudharsan out for 100 off 58, Gujarat lost the chance for a late surge, but Washington Sundar provided some quick runs with a six and a four. Suyash Sharma delivered a tidy four-run 17th over before walking off for medical attention following the earlier blow to his hand, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar followed it up with an equally economical five-run over while dismissing Jos Buttler, who reverse-scooped a low full toss to short third. Drama unfolded ahead of the final over as Rasikh Salam pulled up near the umpire with cramps and had to walk off despite brief treatment, forcing Rajat Patidar to hand the ball to Krunal Pandya to complete the innings. Holder hammered two maximums and a boundary in the last over to help GT reach 205/3. For RCB, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, and Suyash Sharma picked up a wicket each. Holder hammered two maximums and a boundary in the last over to help GT reach 205/3. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Gujarat Titans 205/3 in 20 overs (Sai Sudharsan 100, Shubman Gill 32; Bhuvneshwar Kumar 1-31, Suyash Sharma 1-36) against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Article Source: IANS

Hockey Olympian Gurbax Singh Grewal Passes In Chandigarh, Aged 84

Hockey Olympian Gurbax Singh Grewal: Former India international and Mumbai Hockey Association (MHA) secretary Gurbax Singh Grewal, who was a member of the national team that won a bronze medal in the 1968 Olympic Games in Mexico City, died of a heart attack in Chandigarh on Saturday evening. He was 84. Gurbax Singh, brother of Olympian Balbir Singh, retired as Sports Officer with the Western Railways in Mumbai and was elected as Honorary Secretary of The Mumbai Hockey Association Ltd as part of a team that included former India captain and coach Joaquim Carvalho. Born on April 1, 1942, in Lyallpur, Punjab Province of British India, near present-day Faisalabad in Pakistan, Gurbax came to Mumbai in his 20s to play hockey for the Western Railways in Mumbai. He, along with his brother Balbir Singh, was part of the Indian team that won a bronze medal in the 1968 Olympic Games in Mexico. Gurbax Singh, brother of Olympian Balbir Singh, retired as Sports Officer with the Western Railways in Mumbai and was elected as Honorary Secretary of The Mumbai Hockey Association Ltd as part of a team that included former India captain and coach Joaquim Carvalho. Also Read: Live Cricket Score After retiring from Western Railways as Sports Officer, Gurbax contested elections for the Mumbai Hockey Association and was elected Honorary Secretary in 2010. The renovation of the MHA's Mahindra Stadium happened during his tenure after the MHA and MCA reached an agreement on the transfer of land to the cricket association to install the floodlights for the Wankhede Stadium ahead of the 2010 World Cup. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Sai Sudharsan Becomes Fastest Batter To Reach 2000 Runs

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Sai Sudharsan made Indian Premier League (IPL) history by becoming the fastest batter to reach 2,000 runs, achieving this milestone in just 47 innings during the Gujarat Titans game against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Bengaluru on Friday. The left-hander surpassed Chris Gayle, who previously held the record by reaching the mark in 48 innings. Sudharsan now has over 2,000 runs from 47 matches with an impressive average and strike rate, showing his consistency at the top of the order with several fifties and centuries. Interestingly, this milestone comes in what has been a modest IPL 2026 season for Sudharsan. He scored only 135 runs in his first six innings, including just one fifty against the Rajasthan Royals, and had trouble converting good starts in other games. He became only the second player, after Shubman Gill, to hit this milestone for the franchise. At the end of nine overs, he was batting 85 off 49 balls and led the innings with nine fours and four sixes. The left-hander also became one of the fastest players to reach this mark in terms of balls faced, totalling 1,361. He joined an elite group that includes Abhishek Sharma, Virender Sehwag, and Rishabh Pant, highlighting his consistency and impact. Interestingly, this milestone comes in what has been a modest IPL 2026 season for Sudharsan. He scored only 135 runs in his first six innings, including just one fifty against the Rajasthan Royals, and had trouble converting good starts in other games. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Meanwhile, Virat Kohli is nearing another significant milestone. The RCB star, already the highest run-scorer in IPL history, now needs just 92 runs to become the first player to reach 9,000 IPL runs, adding another potential landmark to the competition. Article Source: IANS

BCL round-up: Pritom, Amite, Akbar tons give North and East Zones winning start

Pritom, Amite and Akbar hit centuries this week, while Sofor and Robiul grabbed five-wicket hauls

IPL 2026: Happy To Bat At No.3 If The Team Asks Me To Do It, Says DCs Tristan Stubbs

Indian Premier League: Delhi Capitals (DC) middle-order batter Tristan Stubbs said he has no reservations about batting at No.3 if the team demands it, adding that his past experiences of holding the fort in tough situations will come of huge help if slotted in the top order for their upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 clash against Punjab Kings. DC, with three wins from six games, will be looking to arrest their inconsistency in the competition when they host table-toppers PBKS, who remain the only unbeaten team in IPL 2026, at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi on Saturday afternoon. Stubbs has drawn attention for his calmness while playing a big part in bailing DC out of tough situations against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), with scores of 39 not out and 60 not out, respectively. In all, Stubbs has aggregated 196 runs from six innings at an average of 65.3 and a strike rate of 137. I think being in the middle order in general, you come in different situations all the time. So you are sort of mentally prepared for that, but you also have past experiences you have had in those types of situations. So, I don't really mind where I come in. Then, going up the order, if the team asks me to do it, I will be more than happy to do it. So, yeah, that's about it, Stubbs told reporters on the eve of the match. He credited his adaptability to shift gears as per the situation to a career spent batting across multiple positions, and the experience gained through playing Test cricket for South Africa. Like I said, I have batted through my whole career pretty much. I have batted three in one game and six in the next game. So, it changes all the time, and that sort of allowed me, with Test cricket, to be able to try and change gears and do what I think is right out there. Those two games, fortunately, the rate never got away from us. So, there was always one partnership in both those games, and that's about it. I firmly believe in batting in partnerships, and that's what I try to do my best, he said. But Stubbs' overall scoring rate this season has remained on the conservative side. In IPL 2026, he has been too slow and failed to accelerate in the manner he managed to do in the last two editions. The breakdown of his strike rates across phases, as per stats from Cricket-21, highlights the dip in Stubbs' tempo. Since 2024, his strike rate in the first 10 balls has hovered around 127, but in 2026, it has dropped to 118. The middle phase (balls 1120) has seen a sharper decline from 282 in 2024 and 189 in 2025 to just 144 this season. For balls above 21, Stubbs' finishing burst has also lost some sting, sliding from 233 in 2024 and 155 in 2025 to 149 in 2026. One can hope that Stubbs' potential promotion to No.3 can arrest this slide and bring about a turnaround in his strike rates across phases. On what to expect from the pitch for the high-stakes mid-season clash, Stubbs said, I think from the World Cup to still here now, we haven't really seen here like an absolute belter. So, it will probably be pretty similar. Hopefully, it's really low, ragging, and 120 plays 120 - that'll be great, he said with a smile. DC have faced questions about their batting consistency this season, including their inability to chase down anything 200 and beyond. But Stubbs pushed back against the notion, adding that once the small moments align together, they can show their best batting performance in the competition. One can hope that Stubbs' potential promotion to No.3 can arrest this slide and bring about a turnaround in his strike rates across phases. On what to expect from the pitch for the high-stakes mid-season clash, Stubbs said, I think from the World Cup to still here now, we haven't really seen here like an absolute belter. So, it will probably be pretty similar. Hopefully, it's really low, ragging, and 120 plays 120 - that'll be great, he said with a smile. Also Read: Live Cricket Score On a bad day, we have won three out of six. But also, when we've lost it, we've still scored 190. We know a couple of small moments here and there in the games that we're scoring these big scores. We're not too worried. Everyone's really positive and everyone's batting well, so that's quite exciting, he signed off. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: 'I Visualise These Situations,' Says Jadeja On His Fighting Knock Vs LSG

Lucknow Super Giants: Rajasthan Royals all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja credited his mental preparation and ability to visualise pressure scenarios for his match-winning performance in RRs 40-run victory over Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 clash at the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow on Wednesday. I had a magic wand in my pocket. As soon as I put my hand in it, I felt something. Why did you move ahead in such a team? I have played in such a situation for so many years. My batting has never been in such a situation in my entire career. I have played in such a situation very rarely. I have got used to this thing, Jadeja said in a video released by Rajasthan Royals on Friday. In a low-scoring encounter, Jadejas unbeaten 43 off 29 balls lifted Rajasthan Royals to 159/6, with a crucial late flourish alongside Shubham Dubey. His late assault, including a 20-run final over, proved decisive on a tricky surface. Reflecting on his mindset, Jadeja emphasised the importance of mental rehearsal. This thing keeps running in my mind. This situation can also come in a T20 game. If the wicket fell 3-4, then I would have to go and handle the batting. I visualise this and see myself in the same situation. I get a lot of help in this. I keep thinking about that situation. I get a lot of benefit from it, he said. Defending 159, which is the lowest total successfully defended this season, RR's bowlers produced a clinical effort to bundle out LSG for just 119 in 18 overs. Jofra Archer starred with 3-20, while Nandre Burger and Brijesh Sharma picked up two wickets each as LSG slumped to their fourth straight loss despite Mitchell Marshs fighting 55. Jadeja noted that the pitch conditions played a significant role in shaping his approach with both bat and ball. Wicket was not that easy. Personally, I felt that it was not a typical T20 wicket. There were some fast bowlers on the wicket. There was a seam. There was a swing, too. It was not that easy to hit a shot in the T20 format in today's wicket. Jadeja, who also took one crucial wicket, explained his bowling strategy, where he mixed his pace effectively to trouble the LSG batters. When I came to bowl, I felt that I could use the pace of the ball. My plan succeeded. When I was batting, I felt that the ball was not coming well on the bat. It was getting stuck. There was a little grip, he said. Jadeja, who also took one crucial wicket, explained his bowling strategy, where he mixed his pace effectively to trouble the LSG batters. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Meanwhile, with this win, the Rajasthan Royals are placed at number 2 in the points table with five wins in seven matches. They will next face Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at their home ground, Sawai Mansingh Stadium, on Saturday. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Bethell Replaces Injured Phil Salt As RCB Elect To Bowl Against GT

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) won the toss and elected to bowl against Gujarat Titans (GT) in Match 34 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, on Friday. RCB opener Phil Salt has picked up an injury, as his countryman Jacob Bethell replaced him in the playing eleven. For GT, Jason Holder, Rahul Tewatia, and Manav Suthar come in for Prasidh Krishna, Glenn Philips, and Ashok Sharma. RCB captain Rajat Patidar said, It's pretty obvious we want to bowl first. As we all know, chasing gives a sort of clarity about the wicket and the score. There's one change. Salty got injured, and Bethell comes in. On doing well at home, he said, A great point that I like, we are assessing the wicket and the situation pretty well. Of course, there's a lot of planning behind it. Whenever you come here to Chinnaswamy, it's a good wicket to bat on. There's no grass on it. It might be a bit tacky in the first innings. GT captain Shubman Gill said, Not really. Generally, on this ground, teams have had success chasing. But it looks like a good wicket. Honestly, it's about assessing the conditions quickly. If you can get a good Power-play, you can build on that. Just keep mounting on the good start. On losing their previous game, Gill said, Games like that in tournaments like this can happen. But it's about reminding us what has worked for us as a team and backing ourselves. We have a couple of changes. Jason Holder comes, and he is making his debut tonight. Manav also comes in. Playing XIs: Gujarat Titans: Shubman Gill (c), B Sai Sudharsan, Jos Buttler (wk), Washington Sundar, Jason Holder, Rahul Tewatia, Shahrukh Khan, Rashid Khan, Manav Suthar, Kagiso Rabada, Mohammed Siraj. Impact substitutes: Prasidh Krishna, Anuj Rawat, Glenn Phillips, Nishant Sindhu, Arshad Khan Gujarat Titans: Shubman Gill (c), B Sai Sudharsan, Jos Buttler (wk), Washington Sundar, Jason Holder, Rahul Tewatia, Shahrukh Khan, Rashid Khan, Manav Suthar, Kagiso Rabada, Mohammed Siraj. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Impact substitutes: Jacob Bethell, Jordan Cox, Mangesh Yadav, Vicky Ostwal, Venkatesh Iyer Article Source: IANS

'We're walking away stronger for it' - Walter on NZ's depth despite series loss

After claiming a 1-0 lead, NZ ended up losing the three-match series in challenging conditions in Bangladesh

IPL 2026: Connolly Is Available And Ready To Feature For PBKS Against Delhi Capitals, Says Bahutule

Indian Premier League: Australias batting all-rounder Cooper Connolly is available and ready to feature for Punjab Kings in their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 clash against Delhi Capitals on Saturday afternoon, confirmed spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule. As previously reported by IANS, Connolly had briefly returned to his hometown, Perth, to undergo scans on his back after injury prevented him from bowling left-arm spin in IPL 2026. Connolly has since rejoined the squad and is available to play, though its yet to be known if he will still play as a specialist batter for PBKS, the lone unbeaten side in the competition. Yes, he is very much available. So, he had to go back and report to his state team. He just went there, and he has come back. So, he is very much ready and raring to go because I think he is somebody who's in his first year in IPL and first year in Indian conditions. He has responded really well, and he is a great kid. He has done well in the under-19 levels and played in the Big Bash League. He is definitely a player who is looking forward to every game and is very keen to perform for the side, Bahutule told reporters on the eve of the match. Bahutule also lavished praise on explosive left-handed opener Priyansh Arya, who has lit up IPL 2026 yet again with his audacious hitting. He had a fabulous season last year as well. I think he is somebody who must have gone during the off-season playing domestic cricket for Delhi and understood a few things where he needs to improve, and that's what he has got better at. He has come back and understood that this is what I need to improve for the second season. Yes, challenges are there in the second season. But it doesn't look like he has left off from the way he was playing last year. He is a very calm and composed cricketer and has very good shoulders. He doesn't get fazed by success or failure. He is very well-balanced, and I think in the coming future, he will be a great prospect to be playing for the country, he added. On the spin-bowling front, leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal has so far shouldered the slow bowling workload as the sole specialist spinner in PBKS's playing eleven. However, Bahutule indicated that Harpreet Brar, who has done well for PBKS whenever given a chance, remains firmly in their plans. I am sure he has also been considered. But again, we will have to look at the pitch again today, how it is tomorrow, and at some stage, and then take a call on things. Yes, Yuzi has actually taken all the pressure as the lone spinner because he is also aware that, being that lone spinner, the opposition will always look to target him. But with his experience and with his guile, he can execute his skills brilliantly. Harpreet is a fabulous bowler. He has been bowling exceedingly well from the domestic season to getting into the IPL. He is in a very good frame of mind. He is very keen and eager to play, too. But sometimes, the combination and you have to take certain decisions which are favourable for that particular pitch and that particular opposition. Yes, definitely, he is in the scheme of things, and we will take a call tomorrow, and hopefully, he can get a game, he added. With the match scheduled to be played in the afternoon, temperatures are expected to be very high, leading to cramps affecting players being a strong possibility. Asked about how the team, particularly the overseas contingent, was preparing to cope with the scorching Delhi heat, Bahutule said, Again, IPL has been there for so many years. Overseas players are also aware of it. I think they start the preparation at least a day before, in terms of hydration. But sometimes, the combination and you have to take certain decisions which are favourable for that particular pitch and that particular opposition. Yes, definitely, he is in the scheme of things, and we will take a call tomorrow, and hopefully, he can get a game, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score That is the reason why they are well-equipped when they respond. Yes, but sometimes it can be that the heat is too much, or the conditions can get worse. But overall, they are very well-equipped for it, he signed off. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: When And Where To Watch RR Vs SRH, Know All Details

Indian Premier League: 2008 champions Rajasthan Royals (RR) will clash with 2016 winners Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the match number 36 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 to be played at Sawai Mansingh Stadium on Saturday. This will be the first rematch of the IPL 2026. SRH and RR previously faced each other on April 13 at Rajiv Gandhi Stadium in Hyderabad. SRH produced a dominant display both with the bat and ball as they bowled out RR for just 159 runs in 19 overs while chasing a total of 216 and won the match by 57 runs. SRH is coming to the contest after a dominant win over the Delhi Capitals. They have won four out of seven matches and are placed at number four in the points table with eight points and a positive net run rate of +0.820. The Rajasthan Royals are also entering the match with a big victory over the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in their last match. They have won five out of seven matches and are placed at number 2 in the points table with 10 points and a positive net run rate of 0.790. When: Saturday, April 25, 7:30 PM IST Where: Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur Where to watch: The RR vs SRH match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Squads: Where to watch: The RR vs SRH match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Rajasthan Royals: Riyan Parag (c), Dhruv Jurel, Donovan Ferreira, Lhuan-Dre Pretorius, Ravi Singh, Aman Perala, Shimron Hetmyer, Shubham Dubey, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ravindra Jadeja, Dasun Shanaka, Adam Milne, Brijesh Sharma, Jofra Archer, Kuldeep Sen, Kwena Maphaka, Nandre Burger, Ravi Bishnoi, and Sandeep Sharma Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: PBKS Unbeaten Run A Product Of Culture Built Last Year, Says Spin Bowling Coach Bahutule

Arun Jaitley Stadium: Punjab Kings spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule has attributed the franchise's unbeaten run in IPL 2026 to the culture and values instilled by head coach Ricky Ponting and captain Shreyas Iyer from last year. PBKS head into Saturday's afternoon fixture against Delhi Capitals at the Arun Jaitley Stadium as the only unbeaten side in the tournament, and Bahutule was emphatic in saying that the groundwork was laid well before this season began. See, I think it started from last year and the way they have played and operated on the field from last year. I think the culture which has been built by Ricky, the values which have been built by him from last year itself, have been taken forward this year. So the success of last year, whatever, yes, we didn't go further and win the finals. But I think that culture which was created, the same sort of values have been taken forward. Each one is understanding their responsibilities. With Shreyas being the captain and Ricky being the head coach, the collaboration is so good that we are very clear in terms of how we want to approach each game. I think all of us know that this tournament is quite a high-risk, high-pressure tournament. Yes, we started really well. We have been playing really well in terms of batting, bowling and fielding. But I think as a group we know that we have to take one game at a time and not go too ahead of ourselves and be as much in the present as possible and that's what we have been doing each game. One is understanding who we play against, what the opposition is, where we are playing. So all these points we just consider and move slowly and steadily in terms of each game. So now we look forward for the game tomorrow. It's an afternoon game. Things change in terms of adaptation. So small steps will take us to where we want to go, Bahutule said, while replying to a query from IANS in the pre-match press conference. Punjab Kings' bowling attack, particularly in the death overs, has been brilliant in applying the squeeze on opposition batters in the death overs. Bahutule credited fast bowling coach James Hopes for the sharpness of the pace bowling unit, which includes Arshdeep Singh, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Xavier Bartlett and Marco Jansen. I think with our Indian bowlers, with Vyshak, Arshdeep and obviously Bartlett, it makes a huge difference in terms of understanding how and what is needed for them in the different phases. In the second phase, obviously a lot of execution is important. I think in all the games till now, they have executed according to the plans. We try and keep it very simple. We don't complicate things and whatever the bowlers, all these bowlers who are bowling really well. Marco also can be used in any phase. We try and see how they can be used to their optimal in different phases and they have been responding really well. I think James Hopes, who is our fast bowling coach, he has done a wonderful job with all these bowlers. I think the clarity is so good that it helps them to perform better, he added. Bahutule, who has watched Iyer develop closely over the years due to both of them hailing from Mumbai, described him as a natural leader whose composure under pressure sets him apart. I think he has been a Mumbai boy and I have seen his growth over a period of time. His leadership qualities are something which are special in the way that he is not only responsible towards himself but also to the 10 guys who are playing on the field as well as his collaboration with all the support staff as well as guys who are not playing is phenomenal. I think the rapport he has with each player and he understands them, he knows how to get the best out of a player on the field. He is somebody who is very calm and composed in terms of his understanding towards the situation. Once you are calm and composed, you obviously have clarity in your thought process and I think that is what he does. In a pressure situation, he knows exactly how to handle that. If any of the players by chance don't play to their potential that particular time, he will still make sure that he believes in them and calms them off and gets the best out of them. So I think he is very special. I think in the coming time, he will have some future as a captain as well, he elaborated. Asked whether sustaining the winning momentum would bring added pressure, Bahutule, the former India spinner acknowledged that challenging situations lie ahead but backed the squad's depth to weather any storm. In a pressure situation, he knows exactly how to handle that. If any of the players by chance don't play to their potential that particular time, he will still make sure that he believes in them and calms them off and gets the best out of them. So I think he is very special. I think in the coming time, he will have some future as a captain as well, he elaborated. Also Read: Live Cricket Score But I think we are so well equipped in our batting order that there is a depth in it. When it comes to bowling, again, new ball bowling is something which, again, it's good. But we need to improve on that. But otherwise, again, the mid and the death overs have been fabulous for us. So I think each department has its own understanding, he signed off. Article Source: IANS

'Been A Long Time Coming': Cummins Confirms His Availability For RR Clash

ICC T20 World Cup: 2016 champions Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) have received a big boost ahead of their clash against Rajasthan Royals (RR) at Sawai Mansingh Stadium as their designated captain Pat Cummins has confirmed that he will play his first match in the Indian Premier League (IPL) on Saturday. Cummins arrived in India ahead of the season, but didn't take part in the match. The 32-year-old flew back to Australia right after SRH's thrilling win over Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on April 2 for the scan on his back. Australian Test captain cleared the fitness test on Friday and has now confirmed that he will take the field against the Rajasthan Royals. Been a long time coming, stinging to get back into it tomorrow, Cummins shared in a social media post via his official Instagram handle, hinting at his return to the dressing room. The Australian pacer has not played a single match since the Ashes series at home against England. He also missed the recently concluded ICC T20 World Cup 2026, where Australia exited for the first time from the group stage. In his absence, SRH experimented with their pace attack and found success in debutant fast bowlers Praful Hinge and Sakib Hussain, both of whom claimed four-wicket hauls against RR at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium earlier this week. The Australian pacer has not played a single match since the Ashes series at home against England. He also missed the recently concluded ICC T20 World Cup 2026, where Australia exited for the first time from the group stage. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Cummins is likely to replace fast bowler Dilshan Madhushanka, who played just one match in the IPL 2026 so far and gave away 36 runs by taking just one wicket in four overs. Travis Head, Heinrich Klassen, and Eshan Malinga will be the other three overseas players in the SRH playing XI. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: 'Mumbai Indians Have Certainly Missed Rohit Sharma,' Says Aakash Chopra

Chennai Super Kings: Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra has pointed to the absence of veteran opener Rohit Sharma as a key reason behind the struggles of the Mumbai Indians (MI) in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season, following their heavy 103-run defeat to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Thursday. Mumbai Indians' most successful captain and opener Rohit Sharma suffered a hamstring injury sustained against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). The injury forced him to retire hurt, leading to him missing matches against the Punjab Kings and Chennai Super Kings. They have certainly missed Rohit Sharma. Without strong starts, chasing totals in the 210220 range becomes very difficult, Chopra told Jio Hotstar. He further noted that key senior batters, including India's T20 World Cup champions Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya, have failed to deliver consistently. Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya havent contributed enough so far. While there have been positives like Tilak Varmas hundred, the rest of the batting unit needs to step up, he said. Suryakumar has managed just 157 runs in the seven matches he has played for the Mumbai Indians in the IPL 2026 season at an average of 22.43 and a strike rate of 142.72. He has only one half-century to his name in the 19th edition of the T20 tournament, scoring 51 runs against the Delhi Capitals. He has just hit four sixes in the ongoing IPL season so far, along with 17 boundaries. While Hardik Pandya has had a challenging IPL 2026 season for the Mumbai Indians, scoring 97 runs in six matches at an average of 19.00. His scores include 1, 15, 14, 40, 9, and 18 not out, with a total strike rate of 140.58. MI, chasing a massive 208, were bundled out for just 104 as CSKs bowling attack dominated. Akeal Hosein led the charge with four wickets, while Noor Ahmad and others ensured regular breakthroughs. While Hardik Pandya has had a challenging IPL 2026 season for the Mumbai Indians, scoring 97 runs in six matches at an average of 19.00. His scores include 1, 15, 14, 40, 9, and 18 not out, with a total strike rate of 140.58. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With this loss, the Mumbai Indians have moved down to the eighth position with just four points in seven matches. They will next face Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on April 29 at the same venue in a must-win encounter. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: 'They Need To Find Right Approach To Get Back To Winning,' Says Harbhajan On MI's Struggles

Indian Premier League: Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh feels that five-time champions Mumbai Indians (MI) are yet to find their rhythm in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 and need to improve their mistakes to get back to winning ways. After suffering a thumping 103-run defeat, their biggest defeat in terms of runs in T20 history, against the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the Wankhede Stadium on Thursday, MI are hanging in the bottom half of the points table. The Mumbai Indians is a strong team, but they havent found their rhythm yet and are currently on a losing run. There have been a few mistakes, and the spinners have not performed as expected, Harbhajan told IANS. Former MI champion also urged other players to step up with their performances and to reduce the pressure on Jasprit Bumrah, who has a lot of burden of expectations. There are high expectations from Jasprit Bumrah, and he carries a significant workload... Other players also need to contribute and step up with their performances. The Mumbai Indians are a side that, once it starts winning, can be difficult to stop. They need to find the right approach to get back to winning, he added. Despite a poor start in the campaign, Harbhajan believes that the Mumbai Indians can still qualify for the playoffs if they follow the path of winning. Harbhajan's statement comes at a time when MI suffered their biggest loss against CSK in IPL history at Wankhede Stadium on Thursday. CSK delivered a dominant all-round performance, posting a formidable 207/6 after opting to bat first. Sanju Samson led from the front with a magnificent unbeaten 101, while contributions across the batting order ensured the total crossed the 200-run mark. Despite a poor start in the campaign, Harbhajan believes that the Mumbai Indians can still qualify for the playoffs if they follow the path of winning. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With this loss, the Mumbai Indians have moved down to the eighth position with just four points in seven matches. They will next face Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on April 29 at the same venue in a must-win encounter. Article Source: IANS

'Very Few Understand How To Pace An Innings': Harbhajan Hails Samson's Game Awareness After Sparkling Ton Vs MI

Chennai Super Kings: Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh lauded wicketkeeper batter Sanju Samson for his exceptional game awareness after his brilliant century helped Chennai Super Kings (CSK) register a dominant 103-run victory over Mumbai Indians (MI). CSK posted a commanding 207/6 after batting first, with Samson anchoring the innings with his sparkling 101 off 54, while contributions from the middle order pushed the total past 207. In response, the Mumbai Indians collapsed to 104 in 19 overs despite brief resistance from Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma. Sanju Samson stood out because of his game awareness. A lot of players have talent, but very few understand how to pace an innings in different situations, Harbhajan told Jio Hotstar. He recognised the importance of batting till the end, especially with a young side around him. After his half-century, he shifted gears, focused on singles and doubles, and ensured he stayed till the last phase. With wickets falling at the other end, he took responsibility and finished strongly. For me, this was one of the finest innings in terms of awareness and determination, he added. Harbhajan also praised CSKs spinners Akeal Hosein and Noor Ahmed, who took six wickets combined, especially their intent to get a breakthrough rather than opting for a defensive approach. After his half-century, he shifted gears, focused on singles and doubles, and ensured he stayed till the last phase. With wickets falling at the other end, he took responsibility and finished strongly. For me, this was one of the finest innings in terms of awareness and determination, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Akeal Hosein, in particular, was outstanding. The way he dismissed Suryakumar Yadav, knowing his strength against the sweep, showed great awareness. For me, his spell was just as impactful as Samsons century. Four wickets in a game like this is no less than a match-winning contribution, he added. Article Source: IANS

'Happy Birthday Sachin': Cricket Fraternity Extends Heartfelt Wishes As 'God Of Cricket' Celebrates 53rd Birthday

Happy Birthday Sachin: As India's batting legend Sachin Tendulkar is celebrating his 53rd birthday on Friday, the cricket fraternity took to social media to extend heartfelt wishes. Conferred the Bharat Ratna in 2014, Tendulkar is a veteran of 15,921 runs in 200 Tests, besides amassing 18,426 runs in 463 ODIs. He had been a part of the Indian team at ODI World Cups since 1992 but had to wait till 2011 to fulfil his ultimate dream of clinching the World Cup after missing out on five previous occasions. Tendulkar is the only cricketer to have scored 100 centuries. Of his 100 international tons, 51 came in Tests and 49 in ODIs. He retired from ODI cricket in 2012, and a year later, in November 2013, he bid adieu to the game by retiring from all forms of cricket after playing his 200th Test. His retirement marked the end of an era in Indian cricket, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire aspiring cricketers around the globe. On the occasion of his 53rd birthday, the sports fraternity showered him with love and wished Tendulkar good health and happiness. ICC chairman Jay Shah hailed Tendulkar's contribution to the development of cricket. Sharing a post on X, the ICC Chairman wrote, Wishing our sport's icon @sachin_rt a very happy birthday. Your amazing contribution to cricket continues to inspire generations across the world to play and watch our great game, while your empathy and humanity has an ongoing and significant impact on society. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) shared a post on X on Tendulkar's birthday and wrote, 664 international matches. 34,357 international runs. Only cricketer to score 100 international hundreds. Member of #TeamIndia's ICC Men's ODI World Cup 2011 winning campaign. Wishing the legendary Sachin Tendulkar a very happy birthday. Gujarat Titans batting coach and Aussie legend Matthew Hayden wished Sachin Tendulkar on his 53rd birthday through a heartfelt video posted on the franchises social media handles. I have seen God. He used to bat at number four for India. Happy birthday, Sachin, Hayden said in a video released by GT on Instagram. Sachin's son Arjun, who is playing for the Lucknow Super Giants in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season, had a sweet, short and simple birthday wish for his father, the Master Blaster. But, refused to eat cake, even on his birthday, as he is off sugar. In a video posted by his IPL team, Lucknow Super Giants, Arjun was seen pointing towards a cake, Happy Birthday. But I'm not going to eat this because I don't have sugar very often. I'll see you soon. Former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh posted on X, Happy Birthday Paaji, sharing the field with you was an honour, but learning from you was even bigger. Your discipline, humility and love set the standard for all of us! Thank you for the memories and the inspiration you continue to be. Lots of love. Ex-India spin master Harbhajan Singh said, Happy Birthday paaji . May Waheguru continue to bless you with good health, wealth, happiness & peace. True legend, Master not just on the field but off the field too . Love Always. While Irfan Pathan wrote, When you say GOAT, I hear Sachin Tendulkar. When you say Master Blaster, I hear Sachin Tendulkar. When you say university of Cricket, I hear @sachin_rt.Your forever a student, wishing you a very happy birthday, Paaji. Former Indian opener Shikhar Dhawan wrote, Happy Birthday @sachin_rt paaji.An inspiration to generations, on and off the field. Wishing you great health and happiness always Sachin's IPL franchise, Mumbai Indians, wrote, The little boy who became every cricket lovers heartbeat. Happy Birthday, @sachin_rt Chennai Super Kings wrote,100/100 every time you stepped on the field. Every inning, a story defines the game for decades. Happy Birthday to the God of Cricket. Sachin's IPL franchise, Mumbai Indians, wrote, The little boy who became every cricket lovers heartbeat. Happy Birthday, @sachin_rt Also Read: Live Cricket Score Tendulkar shared a post on X with a photo of his wife, mother and pet dog and wrote, Perfect start to my day with Aai, Anjali and the trouble maker! What more could a man ask for? Article Source: IANS

RCB vs GT Match 34, IPL 2026: Preview, Predicted XIs, Player Tips & Match Prediction

RCB vs GT Match 34 , Cricket Tips : Royal Challengers Bengaluru suffered a heartbreaking defeat in their previous match against Delhi Capitals. Romario Shepherd failed to defend 15 runs in the final overs. That was their second defeat of the season. RCB have slipped to third on the table. They will take on Gujarat Titans on Friday. This contest will kick off at 7:30 PM IST at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. GT also lost their last game. They faced Mumbai Indians and suffered their biggest defeat in the IPL. Shubman Gill and co. will also be looking to get back into the winning ways with a good performance. RCB vs GT: Match Details Date : April 24, 2026 (Friday) Time : 7:30 PM IST Venue : R. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru RCB vs GT Live Streaming Details Fans can watch the live action of the high-profile game on Friday on the Star Sports Network. The live stream will be played on the Jio Hotstar app or website. RCB vs GT Head-to-Head in IPL Total Matches : 06 MI : 03 CSK : 03 No - Result : 00 RCB vs GT: Ground Pitch Report Chinnaswamy Stadium is an excellent wicket to bat on. It is flat and doesn't do much for the bowlers. The shorter boundaries and fast outfield are another areas of concern for bowling sides. RCB vs GT Possible XIs RCB : Virat Kohli, Philip Salt, Devdutt Padikkal, Rajat Patidar (c), Tim David, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Romario Shepherd, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Krunal Pandya, Suyash Sharma, Josh Hazlewood GT : Shubman Gill (c), Sai Sudharsan, Jos Buttler (wk), Glenn Phillips, Washington Sundar, Shahrukh Khan, Kagiso Rabada, Rashid Khan, Md. Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Ashok Sharma RCB vs GT Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill will be two batters, who are expected to score runs for their respective teams. Probable Best Bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Rashid Khan are two experienced bowlers for each team and they are expected to deliver with the ball.Today Match Prediction: RCB have a strong batting unit. Hence, we predict Royal Challengers Bengaluru to win their game. RCB vs GT Match 33, IPL 2026, Today 2026 Match, 2026 Prediction, 2026 Predicted XIs, Injury Update for RCB vs GT Match Also Read: Live Cricket Score Disclaimer: The predictions or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.

Sachin Tendulkar turns 53, celebrates birthday with family and fans in Mumbai

Widely regarded as one of crickets greatest players, Tendulkars milestone birthday also brought renewed attention to his unmatched records, including being the highest run-scorer in international cricket and holding the most centuries across formats