Cricket

James Coles double-hundred helps Sussex double-down on advantage

Last-wicket stand of 103 with Jaydev Unadkat leaves Glamorgan with a mountain to climb

Lancashire in high Dudgeon as Benjamin, Finch pile on the misery

Seamer takes six as hosts are routed for 87 before conceding lead of 411 with two days to play

'Her rough phase is gone' - Harmanpreet pleased with Ghosh's return to form

India captain embraces the pressure against Pakistan

IN-W vs PAK-W Match 6, Women's T20 World Cup 2026: Preview, Predicted XIs, Player Tips & Match Prediction

IN-W vs PAK-W Match 6, Cricket Tips :India and Pakistan are ready to collide in the ongoing ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026. This mega event will be held at Edgbaston in Birmingham on Sunday at 7 PM IST. These two teams are in Group A and will start their campaign with this encounter. Harmanpreet Kaur and her women have done well against Pakistan Women in this format. But the Women in Green have beaten India Women twice in the T20 World Cup. So, it will be an interesting contest where both heavyweights will look to throw punches at each other to take them down. IN-W vs PAK-W: Match Details Date : June 14, 2026 (Sunday) Time : 7 PM IST Venue : Edgbaston, Birmingham IN-W vs PAK-W Live Streaming Details Indian fans can catch the live action on the Star Sports Networks. Fans can switch to Jio Hotstar app or website for the live streaming. IN-W vs PAK-W Head-to-Head in T20Is Total Matches : 16 India Women : 13 Pakistan Women : 03 No - Result : 00 IN-W vs PAK-W: Ground Pitch Report The surface at Edgbaston is flat and good for batting. Apart from some early help for the fast bowlers, there is nothing much for the bowlers. There is no turn for the spinners, and batting conditions will be good. The boundaries are also not big enough to contain the batting sides. IN-W vs PAK-W Possible XIs IN-W : Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma, Harmanpreet Kaur (c), Yastika Bhatia, Jemimah Rodrigues, Deepti Sharma, Richa Ghosh (wk), Arundhati Reddy, Renuka Thakur, Shree Charani, Shreyanka Patil PAK-W : Muneeba Ali (wk), Saira Jabeen, Gull Feroza, Ayesha Zafar, Iram Javed, Aliya Riaz, Fatima Sana (c), Rameen Shamim, Diana Baig, Nashra Sandhu, Sadia Iqbal IN-W vs PAK-W Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Smriti Mandhana has been the premier batter for India, and she will be India's biggest weapon with the bat. For Pakistan, experienced Muneeba Ali will have big responsibility. Probable Best Bowler In the bowling department, Fatima Sana and Renuka Thakur will be two bowlers to watch out for. Today Match Prediction : Pakistan have not been at their best and have struggled in SENA countries. Hence, we predict India Women will win this contest. IN-W vs PAK-W Match 6, ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026, Today 2026 Match, IN-W vs PAK-W 2026 Prediction, IN-W vs PAK-W Predicted XIs, Injury Update for IN-W vs PAK-W 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.

Women's T20 WC: The Way We Bounced Back Was Really Pleasing, Says Molineux After Australia's Win

T20 World Cup: Australia captain Sophie Molineux praised her side's ability to recover from a difficult start and hailed Phoebe Litchfield's growing confidence after the six-time champions opened their Women's T20 World Cup 2026 campaign with a commanding 65-run victory over South Africa at Emirates Old Trafford on Saturday. Australia were rocked early after being sent in to bat, losing Georgia Voll for a duck and Beth Mooney for seven against the new-ball pace of Marizanne Kapp and Shabnim Ismail. However, Litchfield's explosive 51 off 24 balls, along with useful contributions from Georgia Wareham, Ellyse Perry, and Annabel Sutherland, lifted Australia to 172/8 before their bowlers dismissed South Africa for 107. Reflecting on the performance, Molineux was pleased with the way her side responded after the early setbacks. We were in trouble there at the start. Kappy and Shabs bowled really well in the Power-play and put us on the back foot. So the way that the girls bounced back and then carried that into our bowling innings was really pleasing, Molineux said after the match. The Australian skipper also praised her batting group for sticking to their aggressive approach despite losing early wickets. I think that's probably the way we want to play. We've got a top order and a middle order that can play all around the ground. They bat their best when they take the game on. It was great to see the girls feel like they could do that and have that freedom out there, she said. Molineux reserved special praise for Litchfield, whose counterattacking half-century changed the course of the innings and earned widespread praise from teammates. She's amazing, Pheebs. Extremely skilful, but you can see her confidence and game awareness are just going through the roof now. She's going to be a really key player for us in this tournament. I'm so happy for her to make a few, Molineux said. The captain also spoke about her leadership style after guiding Australia to a comfortable victory in her first World Cup match in charge. She's amazing, Pheebs. Extremely skilful, but you can see her confidence and game awareness are just going through the roof now. She's going to be a really key player for us in this tournament. I'm so happy for her to make a few, Molineux said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Australia's bowlers backed up the batting effort in style, with Georgia Wareham claiming 3-13 while Molineux and Alana King picked up two wickets each as the defending champions began their title campaign on a winning note. Article Source: IANS

Aldridge takes five as Durham make Derbyshire follow on

Matthew Potts adds to visitors' misery with four more wickets during evening session

Leach, Gregory stamp Somerset authority as Nottinghamshire waver

Senior bowlers share seven wickets to set up sizeable advantage at Trent Bridge

Yates, Barnard battle as Yorkshire take command at Scarborough

Jack White takes three wickets to leave visitors facing big deficit

Harmer, Bennett turn the screw as Leicestershire struggle against Essex

Kelly battles but innings defeat not out of question after follow-on is enforced

Women's T20 WC: 'Australia Pretty Much Outplayed Us Today', Says Wolvaardt After South Africa's Defeat

T20 World Cup: South Africa captain Laura Wolvaardt admitted Australia were the better side on the day after the Proteas suffered a 65-run defeat in their opening match of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 at Emirates Old Trafford on Saturday. After restricting Australia to 172/8 despite a blistering 51 from Phoebe Litchfield, South Africa struggled in the chase and were bowled out for 107 in 16.4 overs, with Wolvaardt top-scoring with 44. Reflecting on the defeat, the South African skipper felt her side had done a reasonable job with the ball but failed to build momentum during the chase. Tough day today. I thought we had a pretty decent first half. Restricting them to that score was not too bad, but obviously, we just lost our way with the bat a bit. It's a disappointing loss, but I think they bowled really well and pretty much outplayed us today, Wolvaardt said after the match. The captain believed Australia's total was within reach despite being slightly above par on a surface that offered assistance to the bowlers. I thought it was okay. Maybe a little bit above par, but it could have been worse. We backed ourselves to go at around nine runs an over, but we just lost our way and struggled to get some momentum in the innings, she said. Wolvaardt also took positives from South Africa's bowling performance, particularly the return of the experienced pace duo Marizanne Kapp and Shabnim Ismail. It was awesome to have them back. It's been a long time since we had them bowling together in a Power-play like that. Nadine de Klerk and Nonkululeko Mlaba bowled pretty well too, so that's going well at least, she added. The South African captain endured a frustrating innings herself. Although she stayed at the crease and fought hard for her 44, she struggled to keep up with the required rate as wickets continued to fall around her. It was hard to get going. I got stuck at the other end a bit, and then they bowled pretty well to me later on and closed up my areas. By the time I got out, it was quite late already, so I was disappointed with that, Wolvaardt admitted. The South African captain endured a frustrating innings herself. Although she stayed at the crease and fought hard for her 44, she struggled to keep up with the required rate as wickets continued to fall around her. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Despite the heavy defeat, the South African skipper remained confident that her side could bounce back in the remainder of the tournament. Definitely. There's still a long tournament to go. We'll put this game behind us as quickly as we can and move on to the next one, she said. Article Source: IANS

BAN vs AUS 3rd ODI: Preview, Predicted XIs, Player Tips & Match Prediction

BAN vs AUS 3rd ODI , Cricket Tips :It has been an excellent and record-breaking month for Bangladesh, as they have beaten Australia for the first time in the bilateral ODI series. They have dominated Australia in the first two matches and didn't let them score 200 runs in an inning. But can they record a series clean sweep? The third and final ODI between Bangladesh and Australia will be held at Shere Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka on Sunday at 10:30 AM IST. Australia have been horrible with the bat and have lost quick wickets. They will be under pressure of avoiding the series whitewash. BAN vs AUS: Match Details Date : June 14, 2026 (Sunday) Time : 10:30 AM IST Venue : Shere Bangla National Stadium, Dhaka BAN vs AUS: Live Streaming Details FanCode is the first and only platform to watch the BAN vs AUS 3rd ODI in India. BAN vs AUS: Head-to-Head in ODIs Total Matches : 24 Bangladesh : 03 Australia : 20 No - result : 01 Tied : 00 BAN vs AUS: Ground Pitch Report Shere Bangla National Stadium has been a slow wicket, which offers good assistance for the bowlers. Pacers will get good pace and carry from the wicket, which will be consistent. As the ball gets old, spinners will get more out of the wicket. BAN vs AUS: Possible XIs Bangladesh : Soumya Sarkar, Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Litton Das (wk), Mosaddek Hossain, Towhid Hridoy, Mehidy Hasan Miraz (c), Rishad Hossain, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Nahid Rana Australia : Matt Short, Josh Inglis (c) (wk), Alex Carey, Marnus Labuschagne, Cooper Connolly, Cameron Green, Matt Renshaw, Riley Meredith, Adam Zampa, Nathan Ellis, Xavier Bartlett BAN vs AUS: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Najmul Hossain Shanto has been in good form and has scored runs in both matches. For Australia, captain Josh Inglis needs to stick, because he is a free-flowing batter who can score quickly. Probable Best Bowler Nathan Ellis and Mustafizur Rahman are two smart operators who have done well in both games. Today Match Prediction : Bangladesh have been too good for Australia. We predict them to beat Australia in the final ODI also. BAN vs AUS Match 3rd ODI, Today Match BAN vs AUS, BAN vs AUS Prediction, BAN vs AUS Predicted XIs, Injury Update for Bangladesh vs Australia Match Also Read: Live Cricket Score Disclaimer : The prediction or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions

Bracey, van Buuren dig into frustrate Northants

Fifth-wicket pair come together with Gloucestershire in some trouble at 56 for 4

Gill impressed with newbies Gurnoor Brar and Harsh Dubey

Brar and Dubey shared six wickets on debut to derail Afghanistan's innings after Gurbaz's ton

WI vs SL 2nd T20I: Preview, Predicted XIs, Player Tips & Match Prediction

WI vs SL 2nd T20I, Cricket Tips :After losing the ODI series, West Indies bounced back with a good win to start the three-match T20I series. Jason Holder bowled a brilliant spell of 3/18 to break the backbone of the Sri Lankan batting unit. Kamindu Mendis scored a half-century, but it ended in vain. Captain Shai Hope scored an unbeaten 65 off 54 balls to take his team over the line. With a 1-0 lead, West Indies will take on Sri Lanka in the second T20I. This contest will start at 6 AM IST on Sunday at Sabina Park in Jamaica. Sri Lanka will be aiming to show an improved performance and level the series. WI vs SL: Match Details Date : June 14, 2026 (Sunday) Time : 6:00 AM IST Venue : Sabina Park, Kingston, Jamaica WI vs SL: Live Streaming Details The only optionto watch the WI vs SL 2nd T20I in India is through the FanCode streaming platform. WI vs SL: Head-to-Head in T20Is Total Matches : 19 West Indies : 09 Sri Lanka : 10 No - result : 00 WI vs SL: Ground Pitch Report The wicket at Sabina Park is on the slower side. The wicket has swing and movement early on for the fast bowlers. Spinners will be in the game as the game goes on. The toss will be important, as chasing will be a good option here. WI vs SL: Possible XIs West Indies : Brandon King, Shai Hope (c & wk), Shimron Hetmyer, Sherfane Rutherford, Roston Chase, Rovman Powell, Romario Shepherd, Jason Holder, Matthew Forde, Akeal Hosein, Shamar Joseph Sri Lanka : Kusal Mendis (c & wk), Pathum Nissanka, Lasith Croospulle, Pavan Rathnayake, Dasun Shanaka, Kamindu Mendis, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Eshan Malinga, Dilshan Madushanka WI vs SL: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Shai Hope and Kusal Mendis are two star batters for their teams going into this game. Probable Bowler Jason Holder and Wanindu Hasaranga will be key bowlers for their teams. They are also in good form. Today Match Prediction : West Indies have the home advantage and momentum on their side. Hence, we predict West Indies to win this game. WI vs SL Match 2nd T20I, Today Match WI vs SL, WI vs SL Prediction, WI vs SL Predicted XIs, Injury Update for West Indies vs Sri Lanka Match Also Read: Live Cricket Score Disclaimer : The prediction or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions

West Indies bowl first, Bates misses out for New Zealand

Henry, Taylor still unavailable for West Indies as Hampshire Bowl hosts in bright sunshine

Licthfield, spinners hand Australia big win over South Africa

Australia's four-pronged spin attack skittled South Africa for 107 to register a NRR-boosting win

1st ODI: Brar, Dubey, Gill Star As India Beat Afghanistan By Seven Wickets, Take 1-0 Lead (ld)

Zia Ur Rahman Sharifi: The crowd at the HPCA Stadium may have come expecting a full 50over contest, but they were treated to an entertaining 25over chase in a match truncated due to rain as skipper Shubman Gill hit 84 not out to help India beat Afghanistan by seven wickets in the ODI series opener on Saturday. After debutants Gurnoor Brar and Harsh Dubey claimed three wickets apiece to help India bowl out Afghanistan for 194, despite a blistering 102 coming from Rahmanullah Gurbazs willow, Gill produced a knock of absolute authority and was at his sublime best to hit 11 fours and two sixes in his 66-ball knock, taking India home with 13 balls to spare. India needed a solid start, and skipper Rohit Sharma provided it before a mixup cut short his innings. Shubman Gill carried on fluently, striking boundaries to keep the tempo high. He was joined by Ishan Kishan, who sparkled on his return to ODIs with a 22ball 34, while peppering the field with aggressive strokes. KL Rahul then took charge in the middle overs, ensuring there was no letup. The righthander remained unbeaten on a 19ball 39, laced with four boundaries and three sixes to guide India home with ease, as they never looked under pressure in the chase. Afghanistans bowlers struggled to find rhythm. Rashid Khan was expensive but managed to pick up a wicket, while the pacers leaked runs throughout. The visitors failed to build momentum with the ball, allowing Indias batters to dominate from start to finish, as the hosts maintained their unbeaten record against them. The innings began dramatically when Azmatullah Omarzai conceded five wides and a noball, before Rohit was struck on the wrist by his short delivery, and required treatment from the physio. Rohit soon found his rhythm, punching through covers and pulling Omarzai for a six to reach 16,000 international runs. Gill joined in with crisp drives, and the pair had a 46-run opening stand. The opening stand was broken when a mixup led to Rohits runout for 16. Gill carried on, unfazed, and was joined by Ishan Kishan, whose aggressive knock included three fours and a six, but Rashid Khans googly castled him in the 13th over. Shreyas Iyer added a few boundaries, but pulled to mid-on for 12 off Zia. At 137/3, India still held control thanks to Gills composure. The skipper reached his fifty off 37 balls with a pull off Nabi and crossed 3,000 ODI runs during the chase. He struck sixes and fours with absolute authority, while Rahul ensured there were no late hiccups. He began cautiously but soon accelerated with his lofted cover drives and pulls, before completing the chase in the 23rd over and helping India take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. Previously, Gurbaz had luck on his side - India didn't review an lbw appeal when he was on 14, and he made them pay. After taking time to get going and understanding the pitch, he launched into the Indian back-up bowlers with some outrageous clean hitting in a 25-overs-a-side contest. In an outstanding knock studded with eight fours and as many sixes, Gurbaz brought up his ninth hundred off 48 balls, the fastest by an Afghan batter in the 50-over format and the second fastest by any batter against India in ODIs. At one point, Afghanistan looked set to get beyond 220, but Gurbaz's dismissal helped India claw back. Barring Hashmatullah Shahidi and Azmatullah Omarzai making 20s, none of the other batters got past single digits. For India, Gurnoor and Harsh maintained their composure and bowling smarts to pick three-fors while Arshdeep Singh and Nitish Kumar Reddy chipped in with two scalps each. Afghanistans innings began shakily as Ibrahim Zadran, Sediqullah Atal, and Rahmat Shah fell inside the powerplay. Gurbaz, however, counterattacked spectacularly as Washington Sundar, Dubey, and Prasidh Krishna bore the brunt of his big-hitting. With 78 percent of his runs coming in boundaries, Gurbaz put on a treat for fans who braved four hours and 15 minutes of rain delay and left them enthralled. Shahidi offered support with a fluent 27, while adding a 116-run stand with Gurbaz at a runrate of over ten. Azmatullah Omarzai chipped in with a brisk 26, but once Nitish Kumar Reddy dismissed Gurbaz with a pinpoint slower yorker for 102, Afghanistans momentum stalled. Left-arm spinner Dubey recovered from an expensive start to strike thrice removing Shahidi, Omarzai, and AM Ghazanfar to take 3-47, while lanky right-arm pacer Brar capped his debut by castling Rashid Khan with pace and later had Zia Ur Rahman Sharifi caught at longon to finish with 3-27, as Indias bowlers, rattled initially, pulled things back smartly in the final overs. Shahidi offered support with a fluent 27, while adding a 116-run stand with Gurbaz at a runrate of over ten. Azmatullah Omarzai chipped in with a brisk 26, but once Nitish Kumar Reddy dismissed Gurbaz with a pinpoint slower yorker for 102, Afghanistans momentum stalled. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Afghanistan 194 all out in 24.5 overs (Rahmanullah Gurbaz 102, Hashmatullah Shahidi 27; Gurnoor Brar 3-27, Harsh Dubey 3-47) lost to India 195/3 in 22.5 overs (Shubman Gill 84 not out, KL Rahul 39 not out; Rashid Khan 1-37, Zia Ur Rahman Sharifi 1-39) by seven wickets Article Source: IANS

Villiers, Johnson star for Durham as Essex fall short

Former Essex allrounder puts former team-mates under the cosh

Gill, Rahul seal India's chase for 1-0 lead after Gurbaz century

Gurbaz's 102 off 51 went in vain as the rest of the Afghanistan batters managed just 80 runs together

All-round Hampshire hold off Odgers, Learoyd charge for Somerset

Bouchier, Southby and Sweet add fifties before spinners trigger collapse

Elwiss rides the blows to keep The Blaze on top

Surrey outmuscled despite Monaghan, Spence contributions

1st ODI: Gill Hits 84 Not Out As India Beat Afghanistan By Seven Wickets, Take 1-0 Lead

Zia Ur Rahman Sharifi: The crowd at the HPCA Stadium may have come expecting a full 50over contest, but they were treated to an entertaining 25over chase in a match truncated due to rain, as skipper Shubman Gill hit 84 not out to help India beat Afghanistan by seven wickets in the ODI series opener on Saturday. After debutants Gurnoor Brar and Harsh Dubey claimed three wickets apiece as India bowled out Afghanistan for 194, despite a blistering 102 coming from Rahmanullah Gurbazs willow, Gill put a knock of absolute authority and was at his sublime best to hit 11 fours and 2 sixes in his 66-ball knock, taking India home with 13 balls to spare. India needed a solid start, and skipper Rohit Sharma provided it before a mixup cut short his innings. Shubman Gill carried on fluently, striking boundaries to keep the tempo high. He was joined by Ishan Kishan, who sparkled on his return to ODIs with a 22ball 34, while peppering the field with aggressive strokes. KL Rahul then took charge in the middle overs, ensuring there was no letup. The righthander remained unbeaten on a 19ball 39, laced with four boundaries and three sixes to guide India home with ease, as they never looked under pressure in the chase. Afghanistans bowlers struggled to find rhythm. Rashid Khan was expensive but managed to pick up a wicket, while the pacers leaked runs throughout. The visitors failed to build momentum with the ball, allowing Indias batters to dominate from start to finish, as the hosts maintained their unbeaten record against them. The innings began dramatically when Azmatullah Omarzai conceded five wides and a noball, before Rohit was struck on the wrist by his short delivery, and required treatment from the physio. Rohit soon found his rhythm, punching through covers and pulling Omarzai for a six to reach 16,000 international runs. Gill joined in with crisp drives, and the pair had a 46-run opening stand. The opening stand was broken when a mixup led to Rohits runout for 16. Gill carried on, unfazed, and was joined by Ishan Kishan, whose aggressive knock included three fours and a six, but Rashid Khans googly castled him in the 13th over. Shreyas Iyer added a few boundaries, but pulled to mid-on for 12 off Zia. At 137/3, India still held control thanks to Gills composure. The skipper reached his fifty off 37 balls with a pull off Nabi and crossed 3,000 ODI runs during the chase. He struck sixes and fours with absolute authority, while Rahul ensured there were no late hiccups. He began cautiously but soon accelerated with his lofted cover drives and pulls, before completing the chase in the 23rd over and helping India take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. Shreyas Iyer added a few boundaries, but pulled to mid-on for 12 off Zia. At 137/3, India still held control thanks to Gills composure. The skipper reached his fifty off 37 balls with a pull off Nabi and crossed 3,000 ODI runs during the chase. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Afghanistan 194 all out in 24.5 overs (Rahmanullah Gurbaz 102, Hashmatullah Shahidi 27; Gurnoor Brar 3-27, Harsh Dubey 3-47) lost to India 195/3 in 22.5 overs (Shubman Gill 84 not out, KL Rahul 39 not out; Rashid Khan 1-37, Zia Ur Rahman Sharifi 1-39) by seven wickets Article Source: IANS

Womens T20 WC 2026: Litchfield, Wareham Shine As Australia Crush South Africa By 65 Runs

T20 World Cup: Phoebe Litchfield's explosive half-century laid the foundation before Georgia Wareham led a clinical bowling display with three wickets as six-time champions Australia began their ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 campaign with a commanding 65-run victory over South Africa at Emirates Old Trafford on Saturday. After posting a competitive 172/8 on the back of Litchfield's 51 off 24 balls, Australia's bowlers struck regularly to bowl South Africa out for 107 in 16.4 overs, with only captain Laura Wolvaardt offering significant resistance during the chase. Chasing 173 for victory in conditions that continued to assist the bowlers, South Africa suffered an early collapse. Captain Sophie Molineux struck in the opening over to trap Sune Luus lbw before Kim Garth produced a superb delivery to bowl Annerie Dercksen in the next over, leaving the Proteas reeling at 7/2. South Africa responded through a steady partnership between captain Laura Wolvaardt and promoted all-rounder Nadine de Klerk. The pair handled the early movement well and helped their side recover to 43/2 at the end of the powerplay. De Klerk made 25 runs and added 41 runs with Wolvaardt before Wareham broke the stand by bowling her soon after the fielding restrictions ended. With the required rate climbing, Marizanne Kapp tried to lift the scoring, striking two boundaries off Annabel Sutherland. However, a mix-up between the wickets ended her brief innings of 12, giving Australia another breakthrough at a crucial stage. Wolvaardt continued to fight and kept South Africa in the contest with a patient knock. She struck a six off Molineux but was dismissed for 44 off 39 balls in the following over after edging a delivery to Wareham at extra cover. That wicket effectively ended South Africa's hopes. Alana King removed Sinalo Jafta and Kayla Reyneke in quick succession, while Ashleigh Gardner dismissed Shabnim Ismail. Wareham then wrapped up the lower order by removing Chloe Tryon and Nonkululeko Mlaba in the same over. South Africa were eventually bowled out for 107 in 16.4 overs. Wareham finished as Australia's most successful bowler with figures of 3/13, while Molineux and King claimed two wickets each. The comprehensive victory gave the six-time champions a perfect start to their Women's T20 World Cup campaign. Earlier, after winning the toss and choosing to bat, Australia got off to the worst possible start when opener Georgia Voll was dismissed for a duck in the first over by Marizanne Kapp. Beth Mooney also struggled in the helpful seam conditions and fell for seven, leaving Australia under pressure early. Phoebe Litchfield then changed the momentum with a fearless counterattack. The left-hander struck a boundary off the first ball she faced and continued to take on the South African bowlers, helping Australia race to 52/2 at the end of the powerplay. She brought up a rapid half-century in just 23 balls before falling for 51 off 24 deliveries, an innings that included nine fours and a six. South Africa tightened their grip when Ashleigh Gardner was dismissed for just one, reducing Australia to 57/4. However, Georgia Wareham and Ellyse Perry steadied the innings with a crucial 58-run partnership. Wareham played an aggressive knock of 32 from 22 balls, hitting six boundaries, before Nadine de Klerk broke the stand. Perry then anchored the innings with a composed 36 off 26 deliveries, while Annabel Sutherland added valuable late runs with a quick 21 from 14 balls to push Australia's total beyond 170. South Africa were excellent in the field, with captain Laura Wolvaardt taking three impressive catches. Their bowlers also shared the wickets, with Ayabonga Khaka, Nonkululeko Mlaba, and Nadine de Klerk claiming two wickets each. Perry then anchored the innings with a composed 36 off 26 deliveries, while Annabel Sutherland added valuable late runs with a quick 21 from 14 balls to push Australia's total beyond 170. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: Australia 172/8 in 20 overs (Phoebe Litchfield 50, Ellyse Perry 36; Nonkululeko Mlaba 2-22, Ayabonga Khaka 2-33) beat South Africa all out for 107 in 16.4 overs (Laura Wolvaardt 44, Nadine de Klerk 25; Georgia Wareham 3-13, Sophie Molineux 2-17) by 65 runs. Article Source: IANS

Women's T20 WC 2026: Pak Skipper Fatima Sana Shrugs Off Injury Scare Ahead Of India Clashv

T20 World Cup: Pakistan captain Fatima Sana said she expects to be fit for her team's ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 opener against arch-rivals India after suffering a minor knock during a training session on Saturday. The 24-year-old all-rounder was struck on the knee during Pakistan's net session, briefly raising concerns about her participation in Sunday's marquee Group-stage clash. However, Sana indicated that the injury was not serious. Ayesha (Zafar) baaji played the shot, and it hit my knee. I think it is good now, Sana said during the pre-match press conference. Asked if she would be fit for the much-anticipated encounter against India, the Pakistan skipper replied, Yes, hopefully. The injury update comes as Pakistan prepare for one of the biggest matches of the tournament. Despite participating in every edition of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup, Pakistan have yet to lift the trophy, and the challenge has become tougher with the competition expanding to 12 teams. Pakistan's record against India in Women's T20Is also underlines the magnitude of the task ahead. Their lone victory over India came during the 2022 Women's Asia Cup, with India winning the other eight meetings between the two sides in the format. Nevertheless, Sana believes her team has the ability to make a strong start and is particularly encouraged by the emergence of several young players. It is about setting the tone, so we will try to win this match, so we have options for different matches. I think we are very hopeful for this tournament because we have some youngsters who have come into the side and proved themselves in the last series against South Africa and Zimbabwe, so I think we have a good combination, She said. Sana is leading Pakistan in the Women's T20 World Cup for the second successive time after being appointed captain in 2024. It is about setting the tone, so we will try to win this match, so we have options for different matches. I think we are very hopeful for this tournament because we have some youngsters who have come into the side and proved themselves in the last series against South Africa and Zimbabwe, so I think we have a good combination, She said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With her fitness concerns seemingly behind her, Sana will now hope to lead from the front as Pakistan look to upset India and begin their World Cup campaign on a winning note. Article Source: IANS

Women's T20 WC: 'I Tried To Score Off As Many As Possible,' Says Litchfield After Blazing Fifty Vs SA

T20 World Cup: Australia batter Phoebe Litchfield said an aggressive approach against South Africa's premier pace duo of Marizanne Kapp and Shabnim Ismail helped her produce a match-defining half-century in the team's Women's T20 World Cup 2026 opener at Emirates Old Trafford on Saturday. Litchfield smashed 51 off just 24 deliveries, striking nine fours and a six, to lift Australia to 172/8 after the six-time champions suffered early setbacks against a disciplined South African bowling attack. Explaining her approach, the left-hander said she felt it was important not to allow Kapp and Ismail to settle into their rhythm. I think that's kind of how you have to play against two world-class bowlers in Marizanne Kapp and Shabnim Ismail. They were bowling in nice areas, and I couldn't let them bowl to me. So I tried to work them around and score off as many as possible and got a few away in the Power-play, which is always nice, Litchfield said after the innings break. Australia were under pressure after losing opener Georgia Voll for a duck and Beth Mooney for seven inside the powerplay. However, Litchfield's counterattacking innings turned the momentum in Australia's favour as she raced to a 23-ball fifty and helped the defending champions reach 52/2 after six overs. The 23-year-old also credited her previous experience in England's Hundred competition for helping her adjust quickly to local conditions. It's nice. I think coming in one month earlier, the wicket was really nice today. It came on nicely. Even though we lost a couple of times here for Leeds, we won't talk about that. But it's fond memories playing in the Hundred here, and it's nice to be back, she said. Despite South Africa pulling things back through regular wickets, contributions from Georgia Wareham (32), Ellyse Perry (36), and Annabel Sutherland (21) ensured Australia finished with a competitive total. Litchfield expressed confidence that the total would be enough for Australia's bowlers to defend. Yeah, I think we do. It's a really competitive total. The pitch is playing a few tricks up early, and I think Kim Garth will bowl beautifully on it. Hopefully, our spinners can work through the middle. But we've got to bowl well, bowl in good areas and protect this windy side, she said. Litchfield expressed confidence that the total would be enough for Australia's bowlers to defend. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Australia will now look to their experienced bowling attack to defend 172 and begin their Women's T20 World Cup campaign with a victory. Article Source: IANS

England Sweat On Robinson's Fitness As Uncapped Crocombe Drafted Into Test Squad

Ollie Robinson: England's preparations for the second Test against New Zealand have been complicated by a fitness concern over Ollie Robinson, with the fast bowler set to undergo a precautionary knee scan and uncapped seamer Henry Crocombe drafted into the squad as cover. Robinson, who made an impressive return to Test cricket after more than two years away by claiming seven wickets in England's victory at Lord's, reported soreness in his knee following a training session and is now facing a race against time to be available for the match at The Oval. Confirming the development, England Cricket said in a statement on X on Saturday, The Sussex fast bowler has been selected as cover for Ollie Robinson, who is expected to undergo a precautionary knee scan this afternoon. Robinson experienced soreness after a training session on Friday. Wishing you all the best, Ollie. The uncertainty has opened the door for Crocombe, who receives his first senior England call-up. The 24-year-old Sussex quick has been steadily building a reputation on the domestic circuit and has emerged as one of the county season's most promising seamers. Crocombe has claimed 21 wickets in seven matches this season and further enhanced his credentials with figures of 4-65 for England Lions against South Africa A last month. His performances have not gone unnoticed, with England head coach Brendon McCullum and managing director Rob Key both speaking highly of the young fast bowler in recent weeks. England's pace resources are already being tested ahead of the second Test. Robinson's fitness concerns come with captain Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson unavailable, leaving the hosts to carefully manage their bowling options despite taking a 1-0 lead in the series. Crocombe has claimed 21 wickets in seven matches this season and further enhanced his credentials with figures of 4-65 for England Lions against South Africa A last month. His performances have not gone unnoticed, with England head coach Brendon McCullum and managing director Rob Key both speaking highly of the young fast bowler in recent weeks. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Should Robinson fail to recover in time, Crocombe could find himself unexpectedly thrust into contention for a dream Test debut at The Oval. Article Source: IANS

Soumya: 'There should have been a much bigger celebration after series win'

Bangladesh team reportedly didn't celebrate much after winning the second ODI

1st ODI: Gurbaz Credits Gambhirs Guidance After Hitting Blazing Ton Against India

Rahmanullah Gurbaz: Afghanistan opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz said a conversation with India head coach Gautam Gambhir after the recent Test match in New Chandigarh helped him refine his shot selection, as he struck a blazing hundred in the rainhit first ODI against India at the HPCA Stadium on Saturday. Gurbazs blazing knock of 102 off 51 balls was the centrepiece of Afghanistans batting effort. With some outstanding clean striking, Gurbaz raced to his ninth ODI hundred in just 48 balls the fastest by an Afghanistani batter and the second fastest against India in ODIs. After the Test match, I had a very good conversation with Gautam Gambhir, sir. That discussion really helped me. I worked on those ideas in the nets, and Im very grateful for the guidance. When the Test match ended, I told him that I wanted to improve my shot selection. He shared some positive ideas, and I was able to apply them today. I just tried to play positively, and it worked for me, Gurbaz said to broadcasters at mid-innings break. Reflecting on his approach, especially with the innings shortened to 25 overs, Gurbaz said, Im grateful for the performance. I think the approach was very simple and easy, just to play positive cricket. We knew it was a 25over game, but I know my game as well. I just backed myself and played for the team. It was nice to contribute. Despite Gurbazs fireworks, Indias debutants Gurnoor Brar and Harsh Dubey picked three wickets each, while Arshdeep Singh claimed two, as Afghanistan were bowled out for 194 in 24.5 overs. Reflecting on his approach, especially with the innings shortened to 25 overs, Gurbaz said, Im grateful for the performance. I think the approach was very simple and easy, just to play positive cricket. We knew it was a 25over game, but I know my game as well. I just backed myself and played for the team. It was nice to contribute. Also Read: Live Cricket Score On the conditions, Gurbaz admitted that batting was not straightforward. To be honest, the wicket isnt easy, especially against spin. There was some turn and assistance for the spinners. But my focus was on backing myself and staying positive. There is definitely something in the pitch for the spinners, and if they bowl well, they can make an impact. Article Source: IANS

Women's T20 WC 2026: Litchfield's Explosive Fifty Powers Australia To 172/8 Against South Africa

T20 World Cup: Phoebe Litchfield's dazzling half-century helped Australia overcome an early wobble and post a competitive 172/8 in their opening match of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 against South Africa at Emirates Old Trafford in Manchester on Saturday. After winning the toss and opting to bat, Australia suffered an immediate setback when opener Georgia Voll, the world's top-ranked T20I batter, was dismissed for a duck in the very first over. Marizanne Kapp set the tone for South Africa with a disciplined opening spell, extracting movement and maintaining tight lines. Australia's troubles deepened when Beth Mooney struggled to find fluency in the seam-friendly conditions. While Mooney tried to steady the innings, Litchfield counterattacked brilliantly from the outset. The left-hander announced her arrival with a boundary off the very first ball she faced from Shabnim Ismail and quickly put the South African bowlers under pressure. Mooney's stay at the crease was short-lived as she edged Ismail behind to wicketkeeper Sinalo Jafta after scoring seven runs from nine deliveries. Despite the loss of another wicket, Litchfield continued to play aggressively, smashing boundaries all around the ground. Her attacking approach ensured Australia raced to 52/2 by the end of the powerplay. The young batter reached her half-century in just 23 balls, bringing up the milestone with consecutive boundaries off Ayabonga Khaka. However, her entertaining knock ended immediately after reaching the landmark when she mistimed a shot and was caught at extra cover by South African captain Laura Wolvaardt. Litchfield's 51 came off only 24 deliveries and included nine fours and a six. South Africa tightened their grip soon after when Ashleigh Gardner departed for just one run, leaving Australia in a difficult position. At that stage, the six-time champions needed a partnership to rebuild the innings. Georgia Wareham and Ellyse Perry answered that challenge with a valuable 58-run stand. The pair mixed sensible strike rotation with regular boundaries, gradually shifting the momentum back in Australia's favour. Their partnership helped Australia recover from 57/4 and reach 79/4 at the halfway stage. As Australia's scoring rate began to climb and the total crossed the 100-run mark, Wolvaardt turned back to Nadine de Klerk. The move paid off immediately as Wareham fell to a slower delivery in the 14th over. The all-rounder played an important hand of 32 runs from 22 balls, striking six boundaries. Perry then took charge of the innings. Using her experience, she kept the scoreboard moving and ensured Australia stayed on course for a strong total. Her impressive knock eventually came to an end when Nonkululeko Mlaba bowled her with a delivery that took an inside edge before disturbing the stumps. Perry scored 36 runs from 26 balls and hit four boundaries. Annabel Sutherland provided the finishing touch with a brisk cameo. The all-rounder scored 21 runs off just 14 balls and looked set to push Australia beyond the 180-run mark. However, Khaka removed her in the closing stages when Sutherland miscued a shot and was caught at mid-off. South Africa remained sharp in the field throughout the innings, with captain Wolvaardt leading by example through three outstanding catches. The Proteas also shared the bowling workload effectively, with Khaka, Mlaba, and de Klerk claiming two wickets each to keep Australia from posting an even bigger total. Despite South Africa's disciplined bowling effort, Litchfield's explosive innings and the contributions from Perry, Wareham, and Sutherland helped Australia finish on 172/8 from their 20 overs, setting up an intriguing chase in their Women's T20 World Cup opener. South Africa remained sharp in the field throughout the innings, with captain Wolvaardt leading by example through three outstanding catches. The Proteas also shared the bowling workload effectively, with Khaka, Mlaba, and de Klerk claiming two wickets each to keep Australia from posting an even bigger total. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Australia 172/8 in 20 overs (Phoebe Litchfield 50, Ellyse Perry 36; Nonkululeko Mlaba 2-22, Ayabonga Khaka 2-33) against South Africa Article Source: IANS

Sunday at T20 World Cup: It's India vs Pakistan, and a debut for Netherlands

Fatima Sana had an injury scare but will hopefully play on Sunday in the double-header in Birmingham

Young Recalled For ENG Tests As NZ Turn To Familiar Face After Williamson's Retirement

With New Zealand: New Zealand have called up top-order batter Will Young for the remainder of the Test series against England, with the 33-year-old set to fill the void left by Kane Williamson's retirement from international cricket midway through the tour. Young will arrive in England on June 14 and join the squad ahead of the second Test at The Oval, scheduled to begin on June 17. The recall offers Young a fresh opportunity at the highest level after he was initially overlooked for the England tour despite being one of New Zealand's most dependable reserve batters in recent years. Since making his Test debut in December 2020, he has featured in 23 matches, often stepping in when injuries or absences created openings in the top order. His return comes at a crucial time for New Zealand as they begin adjusting to life without Williamson, one of the country's greatest batters and a mainstay of the Test side for more than a decade. Young's strongest case for selection remains his impressive performances whenever entrusted with a larger role. The right-hander's most memorable contribution came during New Zealand's historic 3-0 Test series sweep of India in 2024. Batting at No. 3 in Williamson's absence, Young thrived in difficult conditions, scoring 244 runs across six innings and earning the Player of the Series award. His ability to handle quality spin and occupy a key position in the batting order makes him a natural candidate to strengthen New Zealand's lineup following Williamson's departure. Young's strongest case for selection remains his impressive performances whenever entrusted with a larger role. The right-hander's most memorable contribution came during New Zealand's historic 3-0 Test series sweep of India in 2024. Batting at No. 3 in Williamson's absence, Young thrived in difficult conditions, scoring 244 runs across six innings and earning the Player of the Series award. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With New Zealand looking to remain competitive in the series against England, Young now has the chance to convert years of intermittent opportunities into an extended run in the side and establish himself as a central figure in the team's next chapter. Article Source: IANS

Women's T20 WC: 'We Need To Regroup And Stick Together,' Says Lewis After Ireland's Defeat To Scotland

T20 World Cup: Ireland captain Gaby Lewis admitted her side failed to capitalise on a promising start against Scotland and called for the team to regroup after a 40-run defeat in their opening match of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup in Manchester on Sunday. Ireland began brightly with the ball and clawed back momentum at the death after Scotland had threatened to post an even bigger total. However, a middle-order collapse during the chase left Ireland with plenty to reflect on as they slipped to defeat. Assessing her team's bowling performance, Lewis pointed to Scotland's dominance during the middle overs as the decisive factor in the contest. I think it was probably that middle period. I think we had a good start, as you said. And yeah, I think that middle period just slipped away. Scotland ran really well, played really well. And yeah, hats off to them, Lewis said after the match. The Irish skipper felt her side had done well to restrict Scotland late in the innings, highlighting the final four overs as a positive takeaway despite the loss. It's hard to pinpoint down, I think, at the period, I think at the mid-innings, I think we had a great finish with the ball. I think they were 19 for 2 in the last four overs, which is brilliant. So the momentum was with us early on. Maybe, I guess, Power-play, if we had a better Power-play, it's hard to put a finger on which phase of the game. But I guess, look, go back to the drawing board and hopefully improve next game, she added. Ireland were well placed at stages of the chase before Scotland's spin attack tightened its grip, triggering a collapse that ultimately proved costly. It's hard to pinpoint down, I think, at the period, I think at the mid-innings, I think we had a great finish with the ball. I think they were 19 for 2 in the last four overs, which is brilliant. So the momentum was with us early on. Maybe, I guess, Power-play, if we had a better Power-play, it's hard to put a finger on which phase of the game. But I guess, look, go back to the drawing board and hopefully improve next game, she added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Ireland will now turn their attention to their next group-stage fixture against England, scheduled for Tuesday, as they look to bounce back and keep their campaign on track. Article Source: IANS

MPL T20 Scindia Cup: Rohera's Unbeaten 130 Powers Royal Lions To Hat-trick Of Wins

Jabalpur Royal Lions: A breathtaking unbeaten century from wicketkeeper-batter Ajay Rohera propelled Jabalpur Royal Lions to a commanding 54-run victory over Malwa Stallions in the Madhya Pradesh League (MPL) T20 Scindia Cup 2026 at the Holkar Stadium in Indore on Saturday. The win marked the Royal Lions' third successive triumph in the competition, with Rohera producing one of the finest knocks of the season to guide his side to 205/5 in 20 overs. After being asked to bat, Jabalpur made a brisk start through Rohera and Arpit Gaud, who stitched together a 48-run opening stand. However, a flurry of wickets saw the Lions stumble to 74/4, handing the momentum to the Stallions. Rohera, though, remained unfazed. Displaying a blend of power, timing, and composure, he rebuilt the innings alongside Vedant Awasthi, who chipped in with a quick-fire 20 off 11 deliveries. Once set, Rohera took complete control, dismantling the bowling attack with an array of strokes en route to a sensational unbeaten 130 off just 65 balls, the highest individual score of the season so far. His innings was studded with nine fours and nine sixes, while Sanjog Nijjar's unbeaten 24 off 15 balls provided valuable support as the Lions surged past the 200-run mark. Prashant Kasde was the most successful bowler for Malwa Stallions, returning figures of 2/26. Chasing 206, the Stallions never managed to build sustained momentum after slipping to 17/2 in the opening overs. Skipper Ashutosh Sharma (30) and Saksham Purohit attempted a recovery through a 75-run partnership, but regular wickets derailed the chase. His innings was studded with nine fours and nine sixes, while Sanjog Nijjar's unbeaten 24 off 15 balls provided valuable support as the Lions surged past the 200-run mark. Prashant Kasde was the most successful bowler for Malwa Stallions, returning figures of 2/26. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Reflecting on his match-winning innings, Rohera said, My role in the team is very clear: to take responsibility and bat through the innings. Strike rate is important, but the ultimate goal is to help the team finish on the winning side. We had a simple plan before the match: play according to the ball, assess the situation, and react positively to whatever the game demands. Article Source: IANS

England call up Henry Crocombe as Ollie Robinson cover

Robinson set to have scan after experiencing knee soreness at training ahead of second Test

Women's T20 WC: 'Lot Of Emotions, But We Had Confidence,' Says Kathryn Bryce After Scotland's Historic Win

T20 World Cup: Scotland captain Kathryn Bryce credited her team's confidence, preparation, and collective effort after they secured a landmark victory over Ireland, registering their first-ever win at the ICC Women's T20 World Cup on Saturday. Kathryn, who was named Player of the Match for her all-round display, admitted the significance of the moment was still sinking in after Scotland opened their campaign in style. I think there's a lot of emotions flying around at the moment. It was absolutely outstanding. I think looking at the crowds and the support for both teams was absolutely outstanding. So just a massive thanks to all the people who have travelled down, Kathryn said during the post-match presentation. The Scotland skipper played a leading role in the victory, scoring a crucial half-century in a century partnership with her sister Sarah Bryce before making an impact with the ball. Reflecting on how Scotland wrestled back control after Ireland made early breakthroughs, Kathryn pointed to smart running between the wickets and her sister's positive approach in the middle overs. I think just to go to our strong options and run really well. I think the outfield was pretty slow early on, so I think we got up and down really well. And I think the way that Sarah attacked through that middle period made it really easy for me at the other end, she said. Kathryn also highlighted the team's growing belief heading into the tournament, while suggesting conditions were more favourable than during their previous World Cup outing. Probably the temperature helped a little bit as well. It was like 45 degrees when we played that first game. So it was nice to be a bit more in our usual conditions out here. But I think we've had a lot of confidence coming into the last couple of weeks. And we've had a really good series up in Scotland and a good couple of warm-up games. So I think there was a lot more of a relaxed feeling coming into this game, she stated. The captain was pleased to contribute in multiple departments and help Scotland set the tone for the tournament. Yeah, I was really pleased to be able to go out there and do that today and kind of set the tone for the competition. I always just kind of want to be able to put in a performance for the team, she said. Kathryn also reflected on the pivotal 100-run stand that transformed Scotland's innings as she said, Yeah, I think it was a good total at halfway. I think from where we were, we probably felt we left a few runs out there in the last few overs. But I think the bowlers came out fantastically and set the tone, and I think our fielding was outstanding. The captain was pleased to contribute in multiple departments and help Scotland set the tone for the tournament. Yeah, I was really pleased to be able to go out there and do that today and kind of set the tone for the competition. I always just kind of want to be able to put in a performance for the team, she said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score She signed off with another heartfelt message for the supporters who turned out in large numbers. Just a massive thank you. They've supported us all the way through the game, right throughout. There are a lot of blue flags, a lot of green flags out there. So yeah, the support was absolutely outstanding, Kathryn mentioned. Article Source: IANS

T20 Mumbai Womens League: Sayali Satghare Leads SOBO Mumbai Falcons To Historic Title

Aakash Tigers Mumbai Western Suburbs: SOBO Mumbai Falcons produced a clinical all-round performance to beat Aakash Tigers Mumbai Western Suburbs by 25 runs and clinch the inaugural T20 Mumbai Womens League title at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Saturday. Led by captain Sayali Satghare, the Falcons defended a modest total of 124 with disciplined bowling to become the competitions first-ever champions. The Tigers began their chase steadily before losing skipper Humairaa Kaazi (23) with the score on 37. The breakthrough opened the door for the Falcons, who seized control through Janhvi Kate's decisive spell. Janhvi first removed the tournaments leading run-scorer, Sanika Chalke, for 18 before striking again in her next over to dismiss Fatima Jaffer, leaving the Tigers under immediate pressure. Sejal Raut attempted to revive the chase with a determined 23, but Janhvi returned to claim her third wicket, reducing the Tigers to 78/4. From there, the Falcons tightened their grip on the contest. The Tigers middle and lower order failed to build any meaningful partnerships, with none of the remaining batters reaching double figures as they were bowled out for 99 in 18.5 overs. Janhvi finished with impressive figures of 3/21, while 13-year-old Swara Jadhav continued her outstanding tournament, returning with two wickets. Sayali, Nirmiti Rane, and Akshaya Shinde chipped in with a wicket apiece. Under the leadership of Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) President Ajinkya Naik and League Governing Council Chairman Rajdip Gupta, the T20 Mumbai Womens League has added an exciting new chapter to Mumbai crickets rich legacy, showcasing the depth of talent in Mumbai womens cricket and providing aspiring players with a valuable platform. The inaugural edition witnessed the emergence of several promising young talents from the city, including Swara and Sanika, among others, who made the most of the platform and impressed with a series of outstanding performances throughout the tournament. Speaking about the opportunity and platform provided by the league, winning captain Sayali said, I think it's a great initiative by the Mumbai Cricket Association, and we genuinely thank all the MCA staff for giving us this opportunity through this league. It's a great opportunity for all of us, as having that exposure helps players become more confident. This tournament will help us find new players and will continue to contribute to the growth of Mumbai cricket. It will help women's cricket in India. Earlier, the Falcons recovered from a couple of early setbacks to post a below-par 124/6 in their 20 overs. After losing both openers with just 22 runs on the board, Simran Shaikh steadied the innings with a composed 50 off 35 deliveries, striking six fours and two sixes. She received valuable support from Sarika Koli, who contributed 24, while skipper Sayali added 27 runs. For the Tigers, Ritika Yadav was the standout bowler with figures of 3/22, while Manali Dakshini and Humairaa claimed a wicket each. Despite falling short in the final, Sanika of the Tigers finished as the tournament's highest run-scorer and claimed the Orange Cap with 223 runs. Falcons spinner Swara capped off a dream campaign by winning the Purple Cap with 10 wickets. The attention now shifts to the mens final later in the evening, where Shivam Dube-led Arcs Andheri will take on defending champions Mumbai South Central Maratha Royals, captained by Siddhesh Lad. Despite falling short in the final, Sanika of the Tigers finished as the tournament's highest run-scorer and claimed the Orange Cap with 223 runs. Falcons spinner Swara capped off a dream campaign by winning the Purple Cap with 10 wickets. Also Read: Live Cricket Score SOBO Mumbai Falcons 124/6 in 20 overs (Simran Shaikh 50, Sayali Satghare 27; Ritika Yadav 3/22) beat Aakash Tigers MWS 99 all out in 18.5 overs (Humairaa Kaazi 23, Sejal Raut 23; Janhvi Kate 3/21, Swara Jadhav 2/14) by 25 runs. Article Source: IANS

Litchfield fit as Australia bat against SA

SA welcome back Ismail who had reversed her retirement ahead of the ODI World Cup

Women's T20 WC: Australia Win Toss And Elect To Bat Against South Africa In Campaign Opener

T20 World Cup: Australia have won the toss and elected to bat against South Africa in their first match of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 at the Emirates Old Trafford on Saturday. The six-time champions enter the tournament as the world's top-ranked T201 side and will be aiming to make a strong start under the leadership of new captain Sophie Molineux. Meanwhile, South Africa, currently ranked fifth in the format, arrive with growing confidence as they continue to establish themselves among the elite teams in women's cricket. The Proteas will once again be led by Laura Wolvaardt, who captains the side in her second consecutive T20 World Cup. South Africa will hope to carry forward the momentum they have built over recent years and challenge one of the most dominant teams in the history of the competition. Historically, Australia have enjoyed overwhelming success against South Africa in T20 internationals. The Australians have won nine of the 11 meetings between the two teams, while South Africa have managed just two victories. After winning the toss, Australia skipper Sophie Molineux said, We are going to have a bat. It would be good to get out there and put a score on the board. Really well. We have covered our warm-up matches and everything. It was probably just how our bowling is going to shape up. The pitch might suit her as well. It is, with it comes enormous responsibility. While after losing the toss, South Africa skipper Laura Wolvaardt said, Don't mind having a bowl first. We have a good record chasing, so we don't mind. We have played a lot of good cricket, and hopefully it counts for something. Playing XIs: While after losing the toss, South Africa skipper Laura Wolvaardt said, Don't mind having a bowl first. We have a good record chasing, so we don't mind. We have played a lot of good cricket, and hopefully it counts for something. Also Read: Live Cricket Score South Africa: Laura Wolvaardt (C), Sune Luus, Annerie Dercksen, Nadine de Klerk, Marizanne Kapp, Chloe Tryon, Kayla Reyneke, Sinalo Jafta (wk), Shabnim Ismail, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Ayabonga Khaka. Article Source: IANS

Kathryn Bryce's all-round heroics lead Scotland to maiden T20 World Cup win

She followed up a 39-ball 60 with two wickets in a captain's performance

Womens T20 WC: Gordon, Frasers 3-wicket Hauls Guide Scotland To Historic 40-run Win Over Ireland

T20 World Cup: Skipper Kathryn Bryce led from the front with a sparkling half-century before spinner Kirstie Gordon ripped through Ireland's middle-order as Scotland registered a historic 40-run victory in their ICC Women's T20 World Cup campaign opener at Old Trafford in Manchester on Saturday. Defending 161/5, built around a match-defining 106-run partnership between sisters Kathryn and Sarah Bryce, Scotland produced a disciplined bowling display to bowl Ireland out for 121 in 19.1 overs and secure their first-ever win in Women's T20 World Cup history. Ireland's chase suffered an early setback when Kathryn struck in the opening over, pulling off a sharp return catch to dismiss Alana Dalzell. However, Amy Hunter and skipper Gaby Lewis steadied the innings, helping Ireland recover to 35/1 at the end of the powerplay. Hunter looked in fine touch, driving and pulling with authority as she raced to 39 off 36 deliveries. Alongside Lewis, she kept Ireland in the hunt, but Scotland gradually tightened their grip through spin. The breakthrough arrived in the eighth over when Katherine Fraser outfoxed Lewis, who was stumped by Sarah Bryce while attempting to advance down the track. With the required rate climbing, Hunter continued to fight before Fraser delivered another crucial blow, bowling the Irish batter with a delivery that sneaked through her attempted reverse sweep. That wicket triggered a dramatic collapse from which Ireland never recovered. The turning point came in Gordon's sensational 13th over. The left-arm spinner removed Rebecca Stokell and Leah Paul in successive deliveries before bowling Alice Tector to complete a remarkable triple strike. Ireland slumped from 68/3 to 70/6 within six balls as Scotland seized complete control of the contest. Orla Prendergast attempted to revive the chase with a spirited 33 off 23 balls, including four boundaries and a six, while Arlene Kelly contributed 15. But the mounting required rate and regular wickets proved too much to overcome. Gordon finished with outstanding figures of 3/16 from four overs, while Fraser matched her tally with 3/18. Kathryn capped a memorable all-round performance with figures of 2/19 to go with her 60 off 39 balls earlier in the first innings. Earlier, Scotland's innings was transformed by the Bryce sisters after early wickets left them at 37/2. Sarah narrowly missed a half-century with 49, while Kathryn struck a commanding 60 as their century stand propelled Scotland to a challenging total. The victory not only handed Scotland a dream start to their campaign but also ended their long wait for a breakthrough win on the Women's T20 World Cup stage. Earlier, Scotland's innings was transformed by the Bryce sisters after early wickets left them at 37/2. Sarah narrowly missed a half-century with 49, while Kathryn struck a commanding 60 as their century stand propelled Scotland to a challenging total. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Scotland 161/5 in 20 overs (Kathryn Bryce 60, Sarah Bryce 49; Ava Canning 3-27, Arlene Kelly 1-24) beat Ireland 121 all out in 19.2 overs (Amy Hunter 39, Orla Prendergast 33; Kirstie Gordon 3-16, Katherine Fraser 3-18) by 40 runs. Article Source: IANS

HPCA's Newly Installed SubAir Drainage System Helps Ensure Start Of India Vs Afghanistan ODI In Dharamshala

The Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association: The Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) successfully showcased the capabilities of its newly-installed SubAir Drainage System at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) Stadium, Dharamshala, as the venue was made match-ready in approximately 20 minutes despite more than 12 hours of continuous rainfall in the city. Heavy rain had lashed Dharamshala through the previous day and continued for an extended period leading into the highly anticipated India versus Afghanistan fixture. While such weather conditions would traditionally pose a significant challenge for match preparation, HPCA's investment in one of the most advanced drainage technologies in world cricket enabled the ground staff to restore playing conditions swiftly and efficiently, ensuring that the match commenced as scheduled. The fixture, featuring two of Asia's leading cricketing nations, attracted significant interest from fans across the country and around the world. With thousands of spectators in attendance and millions watching through broadcast and digital platforms, the ability to prepare the playing area within a short span of time underscored the importance of modern infrastructure in today's game. The newly-installed SubAir Drainage System is a state-of-the-art technology designed to rapidly remove water from beneath the playing surface. Unlike conventional drainage systems that rely primarily on gravity, the SubAir system actively pulls water and moisture away from the turf through a network of underground pipes, significantly accelerating the drying process. The technology helps maintain the quality of the outfield, improves player safety, and allows the grounds to recover quickly following adverse weather conditions. The system is regarded as a benchmark in modern sports venue management and is also utilised at the renowned M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru, a venue widely recognised for its ability to resume play quickly after rain interruptions. The newly-installed SubAir Drainage System is a state-of-the-art technology designed to rapidly remove water from beneath the playing surface. Unlike conventional drainage systems that rely primarily on gravity, the SubAir system actively pulls water and moisture away from the turf through a network of underground pipes, significantly accelerating the drying process. The technology helps maintain the quality of the outfield, improves player safety, and allows the grounds to recover quickly following adverse weather conditions. Also Read: Live Cricket Score As Dharamshala continues to strengthen its position as a premier destination for international cricket, investments in cutting-edge infrastructure such as the SubAir Drainage System will play a key role in ensuring the highest standards of venue preparedness and match operations. Article Source: IANS

1st ODI: Harsh, Gurnoor Handed Debut As India Elect To Bowl Against Afghanistan

Zia Ur Rahman Sharifi: India have handed debuts to left-arm spin bowling all-rounder Harsh Dubey and fast bowler Gurnoor Brar as skipper Shubman Gill won the toss and elected to bowl first in the rainhit first ODI against Afghanistan at the HPCA Stadium on Saturday. The toss finally took place after a delay of four hours and 15 minutes due to rain. The match will be played as a 25oversaside contest and will start at 5:45 pm. India have also slotted KL Rahul at number three in Virat Kohlis absence, while a returning Ishan Kishan will take keeping duties. It's a bit overcast, so the bowlers might get some help. Looks like a good surface, good wicket to bat on, could be something early on for the pacers. It's all about trying different combinations to see what works for us. We're playing around 15-20 ODIs before the World Cup, so it's about trying things. Jaiswal, Prince, and Kuldeep miss out, said Gill. Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi said they are playing with three seamers, including an all-rounder and three spinners. If we had won the toss, we also wanted to bowl first, but again, the toss is not in our hands, and we need to start well right from the start of the game. We did very well in the recent past, but at the same time, it's the first time we are playing India in their own condition. So it's been a tough battle for both sides, and we are excited and ready for that challenge, and hopefully we do well here. Playing XIs We did very well in the recent past, but at the same time, it's the first time we are playing India in their own condition. So it's been a tough battle for both sides, and we are excited and ready for that challenge, and hopefully we do well here. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Afghanistan: Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Sediqullah Atal, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi (captain), Azmatullah Omarzai, Ikram Alikhil (wk), Rashid Khan, Mohammad Saleem Safi, AM Ghazanfar, and Zia Ur Rahman Sharifi Article Source: IANS

Gurnoor Brar and Harsh Dubey make ODI debuts for India in Dharamsala

Rain delayed the toss by more than four hours and reduced the match to 25 overs a side

1st ODI: India-Afghanistan Game To Start At 5:45 Pm, Reduced To 25 Overs Per Side

First ODI: The toss for the opening ODI between India and Afghanistan at the HPCA Stadium will be held at 5:15 pm after a nearly fourhour rain delay, with the match set to begin at 5:45 pm as a 25oversaside contest. The game being truncated due to heavy rain has meant that each team is likely to have five bowlers delivering a maximum of five overs each, while the batting powerplay will last five overs. Players were seen warming up as conditions improved, bringing relief to spectators after hours of uncertainty about the game being washed out due to rain. The buildup to the match had been dominated by downpours, with Dharamsala witnessing rain over the past two days and again on the eve of the game. With the cut-off time for a 20-over game being 6:32 pm, the eventual start hinged on the drainage capacity of the ground, which has managed to drain out water thanks to an army of super soppers running across the ground, and the conditions brightening due to rain stopping. Shubman Gill-led India are without Virat Kohli and Hardik Pandya, who have been ruled out due to hamstring and leg injuries, respectively. Former skipper and veteran opener Rohit Sharma, however, cleared his fitness test at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru and is set to open alongside Gill. India bowling coach Morne Morkel had said in the pre-match press conference that the team management is prepared to experiment for the number three position in this series in Kohlis absence, with KL Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Ishan Kishan all in contention. Shubman Gill-led India are without Virat Kohli and Hardik Pandya, who have been ruled out due to hamstring and leg injuries, respectively. Former skipper and veteran opener Rohit Sharma, however, cleared his fitness test at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru and is set to open alongside Gill. Also Read: Live Cricket Score --IANS Article Source: IANS

Womens T20 WC: Bryce Sisters Power Scotland To 161/5 Against Ireland

T20 World Cup: Captain Kathryn Bryce and her sister Sarah produced a batting masterclass to steer Scotland to a competitive 161/5 against Ireland in their ICC Women's T20 World Cup opener at Emirates Old Trafford in Manchester on Saturday. After an encouraging start from openers Katherine Fraser and Darcey Carter, Scotland recovered strongly from a mid-innings wobble through a game-changing third-wicket partnership between the Bryce sisters that laid the foundation for a challenging total. Scotland negotiated the early overs cautiously, reaching 37 without loss before Ireland struck twice in quick succession. Ava Canning provided the breakthrough by dismissing Fraser for 15, caught at deep mid-wicket, before spinner Aimee Maguire removed Carter for 14 with a well-disguised delivery that crashed into the stumps. At 37/2 in the sixth over, Scotland needed stability and found it in their most experienced duo. Kathryn and Sarah Bryce gradually rebuilt the innings before shifting gears after the Power-play. The pair rotated strike effectively against the spinners and capitalised on loose deliveries, steadily taking control of the contest. The momentum swung decisively in Scotland's favour during the middle overs. Sarah was particularly aggressive, using her feet confidently against spin and striking boundaries through the off-side, while Kathryn mixed innovation with power, sweeping and driving fluently to keep Ireland under pressure. Their partnership crossed three figures in the 16th over, with Kathryn reaching a well-crafted half-century off 31 deliveries. The stand eventually yielded 106 runs and transformed Scotland from a position of uncertainty into one of dominance. Ireland finally broke through when Arlene Kelly removed Sarah for a superb 49, denying her a maiden Women's T20 World Cup half-century by a single run. Kathryn continued the charge and finished as Scotland's top scorer with a commanding 60 off 39 balls, featuring six fours and a six, before falling in the penultimate over. Ireland fought back impressively at the death. Canning returned to claim three wickets, including Kathryn and Ailsa Lister, while Kelly and Maguire chipped in with crucial breakthroughs. The Scottish innings lost momentum in the closing stages, managing only 19 runs from the final four overs. Despite the late slowdown, Scotland's total of 161/5 was built on the brilliance of the Bryce sisters and left Ireland requiring 162 to register their first-ever Women's T20 World Cup victory. Ireland fought back impressively at the death. Canning returned to claim three wickets, including Kathryn and Ailsa Lister, while Kelly and Maguire chipped in with crucial breakthroughs. The Scottish innings lost momentum in the closing stages, managing only 19 runs from the final four overs. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Scotland 161/5 in 20 overs (Kathryn Bryce 60, Sarah Bryce 49; Ava Canning 3-27, Arlene Kelly 1-24) against Ireland. Article Source: IANS

New Zealand call up Young as Williamson's replacement for remaining two Tests

Young will arrive in England on Sunday and start training with the side from Monday

Ireland bowl against Scotland in their first World Cup meeting

Ireland and Scotland have never faced each other before in a women's World Cup, ODIs or T20Is

Women's T20 WC: When And Where To Watch IND Vs PAK, Know All Details

T20 World Cup: The spotlight will firmly be on Edgbaston when India and Pakistan face off in their campaign opener of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 on Sunday. Few fixtures in international cricket generate as much interest as an India-Pakistan encounter, and both teams will be eager to set the tone for their World Cup campaigns with an early victory. The Women in Blue arrive with a settled and experienced squad under Harmanpreet Kaur. Their batting unit remains one of the strongest in the tournament, led by the aggressive opening combination of Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma. The pair's ability to dominate the powerplay could place Pakistan under immediate pressure. The Women in Green, meanwhile, begin a new chapter under captain Fatima Sana. With a young squad looking to establish itself on the global stage, Sunday's contest presents an opportunity to challenge one of the tournament favourites. The bowling battle could prove decisive. Pakistan's hopes will largely rest on experienced spinners Sadia Iqbal and Nida Dar, who must find ways to contain India's deep batting resources on a venue known for rewarding strokeplay. India's bowling attack appears equally well equipped for the conditions. Renuka Singh's movement with the new ball and Deepti Sharma's control through the middle overs provide valuable variety and experience. Although historical results favour India, rivalry matches often produce unpredictable outcomes. The occasion, the crowd and the pressure of a World Cup opener can create a contest very different from what form books suggest. With both teams desperate to begin their campaigns positively, fans can expect a fiercely contested encounter in Birmingham. When: Sunday, June 14, 7:00 PM IST Where: Edgbaston, Birmingham Where to watch: The IND vs PAK match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Squads: Where to watch: The IND vs PAK match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Pakistan: Fatima Sana (c), Gull Feroza, Ayesha Zafar, Iram Javed, Eyman Fatima, Aliya Riaz, Natalia Parvaiz, Saira Jabeen, Muneeba Ali, Tuba Hassan, Rameen Shamim, Sadia Iqbal, Nashra Sandhu, Diana Baig, Tasmia Rubab Article Source: IANS

Womens T20 WC: Ireland Win Toss And Elect To Bowl Against Scotland In Manchester

Emirates Old Trafford: Ireland won the toss and elected to bowl against Scotland at Emirates Old Trafford in the second match of the ICC Womens T20 World Cup on Saturday. Both sides will have more than just two points on their minds, with the teams seeking a landmark first victory in the tournament's history. The expanded competition offers a fresh opportunity for the two European sides to make their mark on the global stage. While Ireland are returning to the tournament after missing out on the 2024 edition, Scotland are featuring in only their second Women's T20 World Cup. Despite their previous appearances, neither side has managed to register a win at the event. Ireland remain winless after 16 matches across multiple editions, while Scotland are still searching for their breakthrough victory after four games. Sunday's encounter therefore presents a golden opportunity for one team to end that streak and begin its campaign on a positive note. Scotland will take confidence from recent history, having won each of the last three meetings between the teams. However, World Cups often bring different pressures and expectations, making past results less significant once play begins. For Ireland, qualification itself was an important achievement after failing to secure a place in the previous edition. The side arrives with renewed belief and a squad that has gained valuable experience against stronger opposition in recent years. Much of their hopes will rest on the performances of all-rounder Orla Prendergast and a disciplined bowling unit capable of applying pressure throughout an innings. The key challenge will be converting promising spells into a complete performance. With both teams desperate to break their World Cup duck, the clash promises to be a fiercely contested battle between familiar rivals eager to create history. Winning the toss, Ireland captain Gaby Lewis said, It is so great to be back. Hopefully we start with a win. We are going to have a bowl. It is overcast and we will try to make use of the conditions. We are gone for two spinners, we have all facets covered and want to make an impact. Meanwhile, Scotland captain Kathryn Bryce said, We would have probabaly had a bowl. It is a plain surface, bit of rain around and there might be some help for the bowlers. Feeling ready to go. Playing XIs: Meanwhile, Scotland captain Kathryn Bryce said, We would have probabaly had a bowl. It is a plain surface, bit of rain around and there might be some help for the bowlers. Feeling ready to go. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Scotland: Darcey Carter, Katherine Fraser, Kathryn Bryce (c), Sarah Bryce (wk), Megan McColl, Ailsa Lister, Priyanaz Chatterji, Rachel Slater, Kirstie Gordon, Chloe Abel, Gabriella Fontenla Article Source: IANS

1st ODI: Series Against Afghanistan Crucial For World Cup Rhythm, Says Prasidh Krishna

ODI World Cup: India pacer Prasidh Krishna said the three-match ODI series against Afghanistan will help the team get into the right rhythm ahead of the 2027 Mens ODI World Cup, to be played in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia. India are due to play the first ODI against Afghanistan at the HPCA Stadium, where toss has been delayed due to heavy rain. These matches help us find the right combinations and build the right rhythm going into the World Cup. We also get to learn whats working, what can improve, and what we can take forward into the tournament, Prasidh told the host broadcasters on the sidelines of the rain delay. Reflecting on his recent Test outing in New Chandigarh, including picking 3-37, Prasidh said the focus has been on hitting fuller lengths. Weve been working on that length for quite some time now, and its really pleasing for me to see it come off in game time as well. The idea is to bowl a little fuller and hit that uncomfortable length where batsmen find it difficult to make decisions. On the transition back to whiteball cricket, Prasidh said the key lies in adapting to formats. The changes are mainly about the approach and mindset. Weve played T20s, then a oneoff Test, and now we go back to whiteball cricket. As I said before the Test, its about adapting to the situation, the format, and the demands of the game. For me, its about trying to keep things tight, block the runs, and make it harder for the batsmen. Its very important. As a group, weve been playing this format together for a while now, so we understand each others roles well. On the transition back to whiteball cricket, Prasidh said the key lies in adapting to formats. The changes are mainly about the approach and mindset. Weve played T20s, then a oneoff Test, and now we go back to whiteball cricket. As I said before the Test, its about adapting to the situation, the format, and the demands of the game. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Honestly, nothing really changes. Weve all been playing together for quite some time, so there isnt a strong sense of seniority. We all learn from each other and support each other - thats the best way to move forward as a team. Article Source: IANS

Women's T20 World Cup: Arch-rivals India, Pakistan Set For High-voltage Opener (Preview)

T20 World Cup: India and Pakistan will launch their ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 campaigns with a blockbuster Group 1 clash at Edgbaston on Sunday, adding another chapter to one of cricket's most compelling rivalries. Matches between the two neighbours rarely follow conventional expectations, with pressure and emotion often outweighing rankings and recent form. The atmosphere is expected to be electric at Edgbaston, where Birmingham's sizeable South Asian community has traditionally turned India-Pakistan contests into special occasions. India enter the tournament carrying the weight of expectation as they continue their pursuit of a maiden Women's T20 World Cup title. Led by Harmanpreet Kaur, the side boasts a blend of experience and firepower, particularly at the top of the order where Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma can dictate the tempo from the outset. Pakistan, captained by Fatima Sana, arrive with a youthful squad keen to make an immediate statement. Although India enjoy a superior head-to-head record in T20Is, Pakistan will take confidence from the fact that major tournaments often produce unexpected outcomes. The contest could hinge on how Pakistan's bowlers fare against India's batting strength. Spin stalwarts Sadia Iqbal and Nida Dar will have a crucial role in restricting a batting lineup capable of scoring quickly. India also possess a balanced bowling attack, with Renuka Singh's swing and Deepti Sharma's consistency likely to be important in English conditions. While India start as favourites, Pakistan will be determined to upset the odds and begin their campaign on a winning note. When: Sunday, June 14, 7:00 PM IST Where: Edgbaston, Birmingham Where to watch: The IND vs PAK match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Squads: Where to watch: The IND vs PAK match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Pakistan: Fatima Sana (c), Gull Feroza, Ayesha Zafar, Iram Javed, Eyman Fatima, Aliya Riaz, Natalia Parvaiz, Saira Jabeen, Muneeba Ali, Tuba Hassan, Rameen Shamim, Sadia Iqbal, Nashra Sandhu, Diana Baig, Tasmia Rubab Article Source: IANS

Womens T20 WC: Lucky To Have Harmanpreet Around, She Will Put Her Best Foot Forward, Says Muzumdar

T20 World Cup: India head coach Amol Muzumdar said the side is fortunate to have the services of skipper Harmanpreet Kaur as they gear up to begin their 2026 ICC Womens T20 World Cup campaign against Pakistan at Edgbaston on Sunday, stressing that her vast experience will be invaluable to the sides quest of winning the silverware. Set to play in her tenth Womens T20 World Cup, Harmanpreet is among seven players to play in all editions of the competition. You cannot buy experience, isn't it? So, she spent a lot of time on the ground. We're lucky that we have the services of Harmanpreet Kaur. The experience that she carries. In 2009, I guess, she made her debut. So, since then, about 17 years of international cricket is a great thing. We're lucky to have Harman around this group. I'm sure she'll put her best foot forward in this World Cup, Muzumdar told reporters ahead of Sundays clash. The coach underlined that the T20 World Cup presents fresh challenges for the side despite Indias ODI World Cup triumph last year. It's a completely different format, isn't it? Yes, we won the World Cup but that was in the ODIs, this is a brand new format. So, I guess we are really looking forward for it. One thing I can assure you is that we would take a lot from that World Cup before getting into this tournament because we know for a fact that we will cross the line, he said. Muzumdar further said the squad has acclimatised well to English conditions after a threeweek camp at the BCCI CoE and playing the T20I series against England, which they lost 2-1, as well as warm-up games in Cardiff. They are in a very good space at the moment. We have got used to these conditions, although the sun is shining very brightly. But we were in Cardiff, there was different weather over there and we all know as a team that in England there will be different challenges, and no two days are the same. As far as acclimatisation is concerned, we've had three weeks over here now. We came on 23rd of May and today is, what, 12th of June, so almost three weeks and we've got used to it now, he said. Muzumdar also revealed that preparations for the tournament began immediately after the ODI World Cup win. The preparation for this T20 World Cup started immediately after the last one that we won in November. The first series that we played after that World Cup was against Sri Lanka and we as a group, we discussed that we will be looking forward and we will be preparing, with all our energies to be focused on the event in England. So, what, six and a half months or seven months that we have prepared really well. As per plans, we do have our schedule for six months in advance, so we've gone exactly according to the plan, he said. He then praised Yastika Bhatias spirited return to number three slot after missing the previous ODI World Cup due to a left knee ACL injury needing surgery. It was very unfortunate that Yastika missed out on the previous World Cup. It was just on the last day, last minute, probably the last over that was bowled in that camp and as a coach I can say that particular camp in Vishakhapatnam had gone exactly according to the plan and we had ticked all the boxes. It was really unfortunate that at the last minute she had to miss out. It was a huge injury and the way she has come back, the way she has fought her way back in this team, it just tells you a little bit of an insight of how this team reacts to challenges and Yastika is a good example of that, he said. On areas of improvement, Muzumdar said running between the wickets remains a key focus. We've been saying this for the last two and a half years and that's one of the parts of it. Every time we speak about our improvements, what we need to improve on, this line comes up and it wasn't any different this time around as well. But as you said, if you can spot the intent, then we are on the right track. One of the things that we always speak about in our, that's always in the improvement zone. So it's a work in progress, he noted. He also admitted that Indias bowling resources have given him a good selection headache. Definitely it has been our biggest strength. But if you look at this team, we have got eight quality bowlers quality spin and seam bowlers. So we've got four and four each and we've got and have to select from them. I won't say hard, but we really have to sit and have a good chat about what our combination would be and I'm sure we're going to have that. But, if you see the variety in this team, it's really good. On the absence of Amanjot Kaur and Kashvee Gautam due to injuries, as well as Pooja Vastrakar being unavailable, Muzumdar added, I think Pooja has been playing domestic cricket and she was a part of the WPL. But we had always thought about Amanjot. When she was injured, we always knew that Amanjot gives us that real good balance and so did Kashvee. But unfortunately, you can't (control much) it's a high intensity game. There will be some injuries and they're on the right track back home. I'm sure the CoE is taking care of both of them, who are on the right track of rehab. Pooja played the WPL and we'll have to see her more in domestic cricket, he said. On the absence of Amanjot Kaur and Kashvee Gautam due to injuries, as well as Pooja Vastrakar being unavailable, Muzumdar added, I think Pooja has been playing domestic cricket and she was a part of the WPL. But we had always thought about Amanjot. When she was injured, we always knew that Amanjot gives us that real good balance and so did Kashvee. Also Read: Live Cricket Score So, I guess it happened in the last game and I'm glad that we're getting into the World Cup with Richa being in form. She spent quality game time in the previous game. No doubt, she does a very great job for us at number 5-6. According to the situation, we get her in the game and Richa is a world-class player and she's a mature cricketer. Article Source: IANS

Womens T20 WC 2026: When And Where To Watch BAN Vs NED, Know All Details

T20 World Cup: Bangladesh will face tournament debutants Netherlands in the fifth match of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup at Edgbaston on Sunday. The seasoned Asian team hopes to start their campaign with a win. This Group 1 match offers an exciting showdown between a well-experienced Bangladesh team and the Netherlands, making their first appearance at a Women's T20 World Cup. While Bangladesh frequently compete on the ICC stage, the Dutch women aim to make a strong debut with a significant performance. Bangladesh enters the game with a stable squad centred around a powerful spin attack. Rabeya Khan has been consistently taking wickets and is expected to be crucial, while Sobhana Mostary and Sharmin Akhter will provide reliable batting support. For the Netherlands, focus will be on Sterre Kalis and Babette de Leede, two batters who can anchor the innings and accelerate as needed. Isabel van der Woning will lead the bowling efforts as the Dutch team seeks to challenge a more experienced opponent. History favours Bangladesh, who have won both previous matches against the Netherlands. Their experience in high-stakes ICC tournaments also gives them an edge. Nonetheless, the Dutch team has shown promising performance in recent games and will see this match as a chance to test themselves against a top team on cricket's biggest platform. A strong start could give their campaign a vital lift. With Bangladesh aiming to confirm their status as favourites and the Netherlands preparing for a historic World Cup debut, an exciting contest awaits at Edgbaston. When: Sunday, June 14, 3:00 PM IST Where: Edgbaston, Birmingham Where to watch: The BAN vs NED match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Squads: Where to watch: The BAN vs NED match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Netherlands: Babette de Leede (c), Caroline de Lange, Frdrique Overdijk, Hannah Landheer, Heather Siegers, Iris Zwilling, Isabel van der Woning, Lara Leemhuis, Myrthe van den Raad, Phebe Molkenboer, Robine Rijke, Rosalie Lawrence, Sanya Khurana, Silver Siegers, Sterre Kalis Article Source: IANS

Womens T20 WC: Debutants Netherlands Look To Make A Statement Against Seasoned Bangladesh (Preview)

T20 World Cup: Bangladesh will look to make a winning start to their ICC Women's T20 World Cup campaign when they take on tournament debutants Netherlands in the fifth match of the competition at Edgbaston on Sunday. The Group 1 encounter pits an experienced Bangladesh side against a Netherlands team making its maiden appearance at a Women's T20 World Cup. While Bangladesh have established themselves as regular participants in global ICC events, the Dutch side will be eager to mark their historic debut with a statement performance. Bangladesh enter the contest as favourites, backed by a spin-heavy attack that has been the cornerstone of their success in recent years. The side will rely on the likes of Rabeya Khan, who has been among the wickets consistently, while batters Sobhana Mostary and Sharmin Akhter are expected to anchor the innings. For the Netherlands, Sterre Kalis and Babette de Leede will shoulder the responsibility with the bat, while Isabel van der Woning will lead the bowling attack. The Dutch side has shown resilience in recent outings and possesses enough firepower to challenge more established opponents. Head-to-head records also favour Bangladesh, who have won both previous meetings between the two teams. Bangladesh have averaged 128 runs across those encounters, highlighting their dominance in the matchup. The experience gap between the sides could prove decisive, especially on the World Cup stage, where handling pressure often becomes a key factor. However, the Netherlands will view the contest as an opportunity to test themselves against higher-ranked opposition and potentially spring an early surprise. With Bangladesh aiming to begin their campaign on a positive note and the Netherlands eager to create history in their first World Cup appearance, an intriguing contest awaits at Edgbaston. When: Sunday, June 14, 3:00 PM IST Where: Edgbaston, Birmingham Where to watch: The BAN vs NED match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Squads: Where to watch: The BAN vs NED match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Netherlands: Babette de Leede (c), Caroline de Lange, Frdrique Overdijk, Hannah Landheer, Heather Siegers, Iris Zwilling, Isabel van der Woning, Lara Leemhuis, Myrthe van den Raad, Phebe Molkenboer, Robine Rijke, Rosalie Lawrence, Sanya Khurana, Silver Siegers, Sterre Kalis Article Source: IANS

The Story of Manav Suthar: India's New Spin Star Who Turned a Dream Debut Into a County Deal

India recently defeated Afghanistan in a one-off Test in New Chandigarh by an innings and 300 runs registering their biggest win in Test cricket. In reply to Indias mammoth total of 564-8, the visitors were bundled out for 152 in their first outing and the debutant Manav Suthar ended with figures of 6 for 33 and a total of 7 wickets in the Test. He had received India Test cap No. 319 from veteran Kuldeep Yadav, another spinner. His performance with the ball was so impactful that his brisk 28 off 41 balls, including two magnificent sixes, remained unnoticed. He recorded many new feats: *His 6-33 are the third-best figures for an Indian bowler on a Test debut. Only Narendra Hirwani (who took eight wickets in both innings, against West Indies in 1988) has returned better figures on Test debut for India. *Only 9th Indian debutant to win a Player-of-the-Match award and only the third to record the feat for bowling (RP Singh against Pakistan in 2006 and R Ashwin against West Indies in 2011). *Only the fourth player (others: Albert Trott in 1895, Alex Kennedy in 1922, and Joel Garner in 1977) to score 25 or more, claim five or more wickets and to take at least three catches on Test debut (Suthar: 28 runs, 3 catches across both innings and seven wickets) in the game. * Fifers on Test debut for India : 1932 - Mohd Nissar v ENG, 1961 - Vaman Kumar v PAK, 1967 - S Abid Ali v AUS, 1979 - Dilip Doshi v AUS, 1988 - Narendra Hirwani v WI, 2008 - Amit Mishra v AUS, 2011 - Ravi Ashwin v WI, 2013 - Mohd Shami v WI, 2021 - Axar Patel v ENG, 2026 - Manav Suthar v AFG. *In his first over in Test cricket, he claimed his first wicket. He dismissed Abdul Malik off just his fourth ball in Test cricket, caught by Mohammed Siraj, only the eighth Indian to pick a wicket in his first over in Tests. Others in the list: Montu Banerjee 1948 against West Indies, Manohar Hardikar 1958 vs West Indies, Vaman Kumar 1961 vs Pakistan, Chetan Sharma 1984 vs Pakistan, WV Raman 1988 vs West Indies, Nilesh Kulkarni 1997 vs Sri Lanka, Tinu Yohannan 2001 vs England. * Before him, the only Rajasthan player (in first class cricket) to claim a 5w haul in Test cricket for India was Salim Durrani. Vinoo Mankad claimed all his 5w hauls prior to playing for Rajasthan. Who is this Manav Suthar? He is 23, born in Rajasthan's Ganganagar, and is already being touted as a red-ball specialist as a classical left-arm-spin bowler. His name has been in the news since a breakout 2022-23 Ranji Trophy season where he recorded 39 wickets in six matches for Rajasthan. Since then, Suthar is moving up by playing for India Emerging and India A in addition to other domestic tournaments. Made his Duleep Trophy debut in 2024 and claimed 7 for 49 on a flat Anantapur pitch. During the Ranji 2025-26 season, he claimed a match-winning 8 for 42 against Chhattisgarh. So far, he has claimed 136 first-class wickets. In the IPL, he plays for the Gujarat Titans; after spending two years as a net bowler for them he was used for only 5 matches in three seasons and was not much successful as he claimed only two wickets. Luckily, while selecting the Test side, Ajit Agarkar & Co. looked at his red ball performances. Incidentally, Jagdish Suthar, his father, got him registered in a coaching centre to be developed as a batsman. Within 48 hours, coach Dheeraj Sharma shattered his dream with the message that Sir, this fellow is made to be a spinner. Dont stop him. He is now high on the ladder of India's next-in-line spinners. When I hadn't started playing, I wanted to be like Yuvraj Singh. Even now, he's my all-time favourite, but as a bowler, I love Ashwin Bhaiyya, Manav says. He not only idolises R Ashwin but closely studies his variations and his use of the crease as 'For me, it's like he's the perfect idol.' He was at the 2023 World Cup camp also and troubled even Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. He impressed selectors with his consistent performances for India A, particularly his five-wicket haul against Australia A, a few months back in a four-day match in Lucknow. He recorded figures of 28-4-93-5 on Day 1 to put India A on top. As he looks back on his rise, there's only gratitude towards his father and his coaches. He surprised his father, a physical education instructor, and gifted him a car from his IPL earnings. The support from my father has been incredible, he says. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Just days after his match-winning performance against Afghanistan, he has been roped in by Warwickshire to feature in the next two rounds of the ongoing County Championship season.

Heavy Rain Delays Toss In India-Afghanistan ODI Series Opener In Dharamshala

ODI World Cup: The toss for the opening ODI between India and Afghanistan has been delayed due to persistent rain at the HPCA Stadium, the BCCI confirmed in an update on X. The buildup to the match has been dominated by rain, with the picturesque town witnessing rain over the past two days and again on the eve of the match. As per weather forecast website Accuweather, there is more rain in store till 4:30pm, with conditions expected to improve later in the evening. However, the eventual start timing of the match will depend on the drainage capacity of the venue once rain goes away. The threematch series holds vital importance in Indias road to the 2027 Mens ODI World Cup, to be played in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia. Shubman Gill-led India are without Virat Kohli and Hardik Pandya, who have been ruled out due to hamstring and leg injuries respectively. Former skipper and veteran opener Rohit Sharma, however, cleared his fitness test at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru and is set to open alongside Gill. India bowling coach Morne Morkel had said in the pre-match press conference that the team management is prepared to experiment for the number three position in this series in Kohlis absence, with KL Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ishan Kishan all in contention. Shubman Gill-led India are without Virat Kohli and Hardik Pandya, who have been ruled out due to hamstring and leg injuries respectively. Former skipper and veteran opener Rohit Sharma, however, cleared his fitness test at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru and is set to open alongside Gill. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Three of the five ODIs played in Dharamshala during the 2023 Mens ODI World Cup were won by teams batting first. India have a 3-0 record in ODI meetings against Afghanistan, while one game in 2018 Asia Cup - ended in a tie. Article Source: IANS

Lose To Anyone, But Not Pakistan: Jemimah Reflects On Biggest Rivalry Ahead Of T20 WC Opener

T20 World Cup: India batter Jemimah Rodrigues says the pressure surrounding an India-Pakistan clash is unlike any other in cricket, revealing that even her building watchman reminds her of the importance of defeating the arch-rivals as the two sides prepare to meet in their opening match of the ICC Womens T20 World Cup 2026 in Birmingham on Sunday. Speaking on JioStar's Rodrigues reflected on her first experience of the fierce rivalry and the expectations that come with it. I remember when I played my first India-Pakistan game. In the dressing room, Harman di actually spoke to us, saying, 'Let's not deny it. There is pressure from the outside because we know the history of India versus Pakistan. We know what the fans expect,' Rodrigues said. Even my building watchman says, 'Lose to anyone, but not against Pakistan.' That is the kind of pressure because people love cricket. They love this rivalry. Despite the expectations, Rodrigues said the Indian team remains focused on a bigger goal lifting their maiden Womens T20 World Cup trophy. Lifting that trophy! This morning, we visualised it. We do that as a team. It's part of our usual process, where we sit together and visualise because we believe that if you see something long enough, you start moving in that direction, she said. That is the theme of our team. We did it during the 2025 World Cup. Amol sir has made it a point for us to do it here as well, and we'll continue doing that. Rodrigues also highlighted the team's extensive preparations leading into the tournament, stressing the importance of training under pressure. We prepare differently for every game. We've been putting ourselves in uncomfortable situations, whether in training or on the field. We have a lot of sessions where we play out different scenarios, she said. Everyone says you have to thrive under pressure, but how do you do that? You do it by repeatedly putting yourself under pressure in practice and making those situations as challenging as possible, so that when you go into a match, you feel prepared. The preparation has been excellent. We've had great camps and this team is looking really confident. We didn't have a great series against South Africa, but sometimes a defeat teaches you a lot more than winning. We've made notes of those lessons, worked on them, and now we can't wait to get out there and play some good cricket. India head coach Amol Muzumdar, meanwhile, cautioned against focusing too heavily on individual opponents, including Pakistan captain Fatima Sana. The preparation has been excellent. We've had great camps and this team is looking really confident. We didn't have a great series against South Africa, but sometimes a defeat teaches you a lot more than winning. We've made notes of those lessons, worked on them, and now we can't wait to get out there and play some good cricket. Also Read: Live Cricket Score All you need to do is stay calm, keep your cool, and go out there and deliver what you're supposed to. Article Source: IANS

Bangladesh aim for 3-0 against Australia in ODI series

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MPL T20 Scindia Cup: A Positive Dressing Room Has Been Key To Our Success, Says Pooja Vastrakar Ahead Of Big Final

MPL T20 Scindia Cup: Chambal Ghariyals have stormed into the final of the womens competition in the Madhya Pradesh League (MPL) T20 Scindia Cup 2026 after remaining unbeaten throughout the tournament. Captain Pooja Vastrakar credited the teams positive environment and strong dressing-room culture for their impressive run, while also praising the players for executing plans consistently and delivering under pressure. The atmosphere in our camp has been one of the biggest reasons behind our success. Right from our preparations in Bhopal, the support staff and players made it a point to keep the environment positive and energetic. We knew that results can go up and down, but if the dressing room stays united and confident, performances will follow. The girls have executed their plans brilliantly throughout the tournament, and that is why weve been able to win all four matches so far, she said. I think our biggest strength has been the way the team has executed its plans in all departments. Whether it is batting, bowling or fielding, everyone has contributed and performed their roles exceptionally well. That consistency has helped us dominate the competition, she added. Vastrakar heaped praise on the Madhya Pradesh League, highlighting its role in providing opportunities to youngsters while also allowing experienced players to stay match-ready and contribute to the growth of cricket in the state. The MPL has been a fantastic platform, not only for experienced players like me but also for young cricketers who are looking to make a mark. It provides valuable exposure, competitive match experience and an opportunity to showcase talent. There is so much talent in Madhya Pradesh, and tournaments like this give players the stage they need to prove themselves, Vastrakar further said. Pooja Vastrakar expressed her gratitude to the Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association (MPCA) for backing womens cricket and creating a platform like the Madhya Pradesh League, which allows players to showcase their talent at a high level. The MPL has been a fantastic platform, not only for experienced players like me but also for young cricketers who are looking to make a mark. It provides valuable exposure, competitive match experience and an opportunity to showcase talent. There is so much talent in Madhya Pradesh, and tournaments like this give players the stage they need to prove themselves, Vastrakar further said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Chambal Ghariyals will now face Gwalior Shernis in the final scheduled to be played on June 13 at the Holkar Stadium in Indore. Article Source: IANS

'Do It For Daisy': Wyatt-Hodge Reveals Inspiration Behind Century Vs SL In T20 WC Opener

T20 World Cup: Danni Wyatt-Hodge revealed her newborn daughter Daisy was the inspiration behind her magnificent unbeaten century as England launched their ICC Womens T20 World Cup campaign with an emphatic 87-run victory over Sri Lanka at Edgbaston on Friday. Wyatt-Hodge produced one of the best innings of her career just weeks after the birth of her first child, blasting 105 not out as England posted a tournament-record 219/1 before dismissing hosts Sri Lanka for 132. I think I was on about 90 and I was like, I could actually get 100 now and do it for Daisy, Wyatt-Hodge said after the victory. The knock was Wyatt-Hodges third T20I century and made her only the second England player to score a hundred at a Womens T20 World Cup after former captain Heather Knight achieved the feat against Thailand in 2020. The girl (Malki Madara) that was bowling was going quite slow and wide and square (leg) was up, so I was like, right, let's just jump across and try and hoick at it and try and get it through the gap. The 35-year-old reached the landmark off the penultimate legal delivery of England's innings, celebrating with a cradle for Daisy before hugging captain Nat Sciver-Brunt. And once I saw it pierce the gap and go for four, as you can see...I was really happy. I've been after that third T20I hundred for a few years now, so I was chuffed a bit to get it out there at Edgbaston in front of my family as well. It was really, really special. Wyatt-Hodge will be reunited with Daisy in Southampton ahead of Englands second Group-stage match against Ireland on Tuesday and admitted motherhood has given her a fresh perspective. I've not seen Daisy since I joined up, but I'll see her tomorrow in Southampton, so I'm really looking forward to that, she said. It feels like I've not seen her for months and it just puts a whole new perspective on things. It's all I think about, even in the night as well. It's just incredible and I can't wait for her to come and cheer us on for the rest of the tournament. I really wanted to get a fifty for Daisy and then obviously got the 100. So that was a really special moment to do it for the family. It's all I think about, even in the night as well. It's just incredible and I can't wait for her to come and cheer us on for the rest of the tournament. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I think a few of the girls said they had a few tears, so yeah, hopefully we can do it again in front of her this time. Article Source: IANS

One Of The Greatest Blackcaps: NZ PM Pays Tribute To Williamson

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher: New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon hailed Kane Williamson as one of the greatest Blackcaps of all time after the batting great announced his retirement from international cricket, bringing the curtain down on a glittering 16-year career that transformed him into New Zealands highest run-scorer across formats. Kane Williamson will always be considered one of the greatest Blackcaps of all time. Not only because of his remarkable skill scoring the most runs for New Zealand in international cricket but for how he carried himself his whole career. He is a total class act. A humble kid from the Bay of Plenty who went on to become one of the best cricketers in the history of the game. Congratulations on an incredible career Kane. Youve done yourself, your family and your country proud, NZ PM Christopher Luxon posted on X. Williamson, 35, bowed out of the international arena on Friday following a career where he established himself as one of the finest batsmen of his generation and the most respected name in global cricket. New Zealand's highest-scoring batsman in international cricket, Williamson finished his career with 19,346 runs from 378 matches, scoring 48 centuries and six double hundreds. His career consisted of 9,515 runs in 110 Tests, 7,256 runs in 174 ODI and 2,575 in 93 T20Is. Arguably one of the greatest players to ever pull on the Black Caps jersey, he also experienced great success as a leader. The 35-year-old captained across all formats from 2016 to 2024, leading the side to two Cricket World Cup finals, three Cricket World Cup semi-finals and New Zealand's first ever World Test Championship title in 2021. New Zealand's highest-scoring batsman in international cricket, Williamson finished his career with 19,346 runs from 378 matches, scoring 48 centuries and six double hundreds. His career consisted of 9,515 runs in 110 Tests, 7,256 runs in 174 ODI and 2,575 in 93 T20Is. Also Read: Live Cricket Score His retirement means Williamson will not feature for New Zealand in the current Test series against England in which the Black Caps trail 1-0, with team management expected to name a replacement in due course. Article Source: IANS

Nayeem Hasan allegedly assaulted by policemen in Chattogram

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Women's T20 WC: Sciver-Brunt Hails England's Ruthlessness After Massive Win Over Sri Lanka

T20 World Cup: England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt praised her side's composure and ruthlessness after they opened their ICC Women's T20 World Cup campaign with a record-breaking 87-run victory over Sri Lanka at Edgbaston. Powered by an unbeaten 105 from Danni Wyatt-Hodge, England scored 219-1, the highest total in Women's T20 World Cup history, before bowling Sri Lanka out for 132. This gave England a strong start to their home tournament. It's a massive win for us, Sciver-Brunt said after the match. We're really happy the first game is done. England's innings featured a fantastic 136-run opening partnership between Wyatt-Hodge and Amy Jones. Sciver-Brunt added 46 runs from just 22 balls to finish off the innings. What a way to start the first innings. Danni and Amy looked so composed, building a huge platform for us to explode at the end, she said. Sciver-Brunt was pleased with her performance after returning from injury. I was really happy to find the middle. I had a couple of innings in the warm-up games, but nothing compares to being out there. When asked if England's display had been ruthless, the skipper agreed. Yes, absolutely. We were composed and thought about the game in a really good way, she said. In the second innings, starting with three wickets in the powerplay makes it tough to chase down that score. Sri Lanka never recovered after losing three early wickets. Freya Kemp shone on her World Cup debut, taking 4 wickets for 21 runs, while Charlie Dean and Sophie Ecclestone each claimed two wickets. The night belonged to Wyatt-Hodge, who followed her century with a remarkable over-the-shoulder catch to dismiss Sri Lanka captain Chamari Athapaththu. This century was Wyatt-Hodge's third in T20 internationals and her first since her wife Georgie gave birth to their daughter Daisy. That was for Daisy, that little cradle. I hope TV caught it, Wyatt-Hodge said about her celebration after reaching three figures. It was great fun out there. What a crowd. I really enjoyed playing in front of this amazing crowd here at Edgbaston. Reflecting on England's dominant start, she added, What a start. It's always great to get off to a good start in a World Cup. The opener also praised her batting partners. I really enjoyed playing out there with Amy [Jones]. Nat just does what she does best at the end, hitting it all over. We said how important it was to start well, and we did that tonight. It's always a nice pitch here at Edgbaston, and our bowlers did incredibly well to keep them to that total on a really good pitch. Looking forward to England's next match, Wyatt-Hodge said, Off to Southampton we go tomorrow to play Ireland on Tuesday night, and hopefully we can do it again. For Sri Lanka, it was a disappointing start after captain Chamari Athapaththu's choice to bowl first backfired. Watching England hit 23 fours and three sixes, alongside her side dropping three catches and missing a run-out chance with Wyatt-Hodge in the powerplay, Athapaththu admitted her team was outplayed in every area. We didn't play our best cricket today. In all three departments, we were not at our best. That's why we lost, she said. The Sri Lankan skipper called for major improvements, especially from her bowlers. The most important thing is attacking the stumps. The bowlers, especially the spinners, were bowling different lines and areas. It's not enough; we need to improve our bowling. Athapaththu also believed her side's batting lacked intent after losing early wickets. We need to play our positive, fearless cricket all the time in the middle. We lost a couple of wickets in the powerplay and lost our momentum, so we have to improve our batting as well. The Sri Lankan skipper called for major improvements, especially from her bowlers. The most important thing is attacking the stumps. The bowlers, especially the spinners, were bowling different lines and areas. It's not enough; we need to improve our bowling. Also Read: Live Cricket Score We are going back to the drawing board to decide what we can do. We have to plan a few things, and we will bounce back in the next game. Article Source: IANS

Women's T20 WC: England Crush Sri Lanka By 87 Runs In Record-breaking Start

T20 World Cup: Hosts England launched the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 in emphatic fashion, defeating Sri Lanka by 87 runs at Edgbaston on Friday after posting a tournament-record total of 219/1. The score of 219/1 beat Englands highest score in a WT20I to date and set the scene for a commanding performance by Nat Sciver-Brunt's team as they kickstarted their campaign with a bang. Put into bat, England started slowly but accelerated as the powerplay ended, ending on 51/0 at the end of the first six overs, an opening 135-run partnership between Amy Jones and Danni Wyatt-Hodge laid the foundations for a big score. Having been dropped twice already, at 12 and 48, Jones made Sri Lanka pay scoring 53 from just 38 balls for her seventh T20I half-century. She finally fell for 53 in the 14th over mistiming a drive back to Malki Madara who held a great catch at mid-off. It proved to be just a momentary lapse of concentration however, as Wyatt-Hodge continued to dominate with one of the innings of the tournament, carrying her bat all the way through to an unbeaten 105 off 62 balls including 13 fours and a six, while playing brilliantly against a decent Sri Lanka attack. It was an especially proud innings for Wyatt-Hodge, whose partner Georgie had given birth to their first child on May 20. Just four days later she is now the second Englishwoman to score a T20 World Cup century and just the seventh woman to score one in the history of the WT20 WC. Her hundred arrived with a sweep to the boundary and she signed off the innings with another. England had scored 26 off the final over. Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt played a great cameo with a late, powerful 46 from just 22 balls to see the score reach a massive 219/1. Chasing a huge total, Sri Lanka never got going as the home side took quick wickets. Captain Chamari Athapaththu fell for just four in the fourth over after taking a stunning catch behind the stumps from Charlie Dean as England ran rampant on a dominant powerplay of 39/3. Harshitha Samarawickrama held the innings together for Sri Lanka with 29 which contained 3 boundaries and a six, but she was ended by Freya Kemp with a straight delivery that went through her defence. Kemp bowled brilliantly with subtle variations, finding herself on a hat-trick at one point and finishing with figures of 4-22 off four overs, with the hosts left to ponder a big loss. Chasing a huge total, Sri Lanka never got going as the home side took quick wickets. Captain Chamari Athapaththu fell for just four in the fourth over after taking a stunning catch behind the stumps from Charlie Dean as England ran rampant on a dominant powerplay of 39/3. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The win was commanding and continued Englands unbeaten run in home World Cup matches. The England womens team has never lost a World Cup, be it ODI or T20I, on home soil and their dominance is a real sign of intent from the team as they look to retain the title. Article Source: IANS

Women's T20 WC: Danni Wyatt-Hodge's Ton Set Up 87-run Win For England Over Sri Lanka

The ICC Women: The ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 is bigger and bolder than ever. And hosts England fashioned a blockbuster start, piling on a tournament high of 219/1 in the opening match against Sri Lanka, here on Saturday. It was Danni Wyatt-Hodge who set the ball rolling with an unbeaten 105. Carrying that confidence in the field, England dismissed Sri Lanka for 132 for a statement 87-run win, reports ICC. Nat Sciver-Brunt's side is not just grappling with the pressure of playing a home World Cup, but also have history to contend with -- England women's team have never lost a World Cup they have hosted, either ODI or T20I. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka are chasing their first title at the World Cup. Leading the team is Chamari Athapaththu, who has competed in each of the 10 T20 World Cup editions, starting with the inaugural tournament in 2009. After being put into bat, England started cautiously, hitting the accelerator just before the end of powerplay to score 51/0 in the first six over. A 135-run opening wicket partnership between Amy Jones (53) and Wyatt-Hodge gave them the perfect launchpad. They kept pressing the advantage, making sure they got the quick ones and twos even though the boundaries flowed easily. It has been a life-changing month for Wyatt-Hodge, whose partner Georgie gave birth to their first child on May 20. Just a few days later, she came out to score the opening hundred of the World Cup, seventh in the tournament history and only second by an English woman. She made the most of the width afforded to her. Wyatt-Hodge brought up the milestone with a sweep for four and put a exclamation on a historic innings for England with another boundary on the final ball. That meant, England scored 26 runs from the final over, another record for the history books. Carrying her bat through, Wyatt-Hodge ended at 105 off 62, with the help of 13 fours and a six. Jones was a tad lucky as she was dropped on 12 and then again on 48. She brought up her seventh half-century in T20Is, scoring 53 off 38. Sri Lanka struggled to hit the spots with the ball and were sloppy in field as well. They finally got a breakthrough in the 14th over as Jones mistimed a delivery by Malki Madara and ended up spooning a catch to Athapaththu at mid off. However, that didn't halt the English juggernaut. Nat Sciver-Brunt, who has recently recovered from injury, played with conviction and innovation to score 46 off 22. Chasing a record target, Sri Lanka never really got going. Talismanic skipper Chamari Athapaththu fell for four in the fourth over, courtesy an incredible catch from wicketkeeper Wyatt-Hodge off Charlie Dean and Sri Lanka slipped to 39/3 in powerplay. The only glimmer of hope was Harshitha Samarawickrama, who struck three fours and a six for 29. But Freya Kemp snuffed out the danger, as she got the ball to straighten and get past Samarawickrama's defence. Chasing a record target, Sri Lanka never really got going. Talismanic skipper Chamari Athapaththu fell for four in the fourth over, courtesy an incredible catch from wicketkeeper Wyatt-Hodge off Charlie Dean and Sri Lanka slipped to 39/3 in powerplay. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Lower down the order, Nilakshika Silva came up with a gritty 37, the highest score for Sri Lanka on the day, but it was too little too late. Article Source: IANS

Wyatt-Hodge century drives England to statement victory in tournament opener

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Women's T20 WC: Danni Wyatt-Hodge's Whirlwind Ton Helps England Post Highest Total Ever

T20 World Cup: Danni Wyatt-Hodge slammed a 61-ball unbeaten hundred and led a sensational top order performance as England posted 219/1 in 20 overs, the highest team total in the history of the Women's T20 World Cup, against Sri Lanka in the opening match of the tournament at Edgbaston in Birmingham on Friday. The 219/1 posted by England is the highest innings score ever in the Women's T20 World Cup, bettering the previous best of 213/5 by England against Pakistan in 2023. After Sri Lanka captain Chamari Athapaththu won the toss and elected to field first, Amy Jones (53) and Danni Wyatt-Hodge (105 not out) laid the foundation for the massive total with a 135-run opening partnership. The hosts made a watchful start, but exploded into action to raise 51/0 in the Power-play. The two batters kept pressing on the advantage, and boundaries flowed easily. England also made sure they got the quick ones and twos to maintain the pressure. Wyatt-Hodge, whose partner Georgie gave birth to their first child on May 20, scored the opening hundred of the 2026 World Cup, the seventh in the tournament's history and only the second by an Englishwoman. It was the first century for Danni Wyatt-Hodge at the Women's T20WorldCup. Making the most of the width afforded to her, Wyatt-Hodge struck 13 boundaries and one six in her brilliant knock. She reached the milestone with a sweep for four and ended a historic innings for England with another boundary on the final ball. England scored 26 runs from the final over, another record for the event as Danni carried her bat through, ending at 105 off 62 balls. Jones was a tad lucky as she was dropped on 12 and then again on 48. She brought up her seventh half-century in T20Is, scoring 53 off 38. Wyatt-Hodge also figured in an unfinished 84-run partnership for the second wicket with skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt, who struck 46 not out off 22 balls, studded with six boundaries and one six. England scored 26 runs from the final over, another record for the event as Danni carried her bat through, ending at 105 off 62 balls. Also Read: Live Cricket Score England came into the contest on the back of a five-run win over India in their final warm-up game, while Sri Lanka won both the tune-up games, against the Netherlands and Pakistan. Article Source: IANS

AUSW vs SAW Match 3, Women's T20 World Cup 2026: Preview, Predicted XIs, Player Tips & Match Prediction

AUSW vs SAW Match 3 , Cricket Tips :The last two ICC events have not gone well for Australia Women. They have failed to reach the final as well. They were eliminated from the semifinal of T20 World Cup 2024 after losing to South Africa Women. Now, these two teams will be up against each other. Australia and South Africa will lock horns on Saturday at Old Trafford at 7 PM IST in the third game of the Women's T20 World Cup 2026. This is a big game, and Australia will look to revamp their dominance in the ICC event. South Africa have been consistent in the last 2-3 ICC events. They will look to take down Australia in this game. AUSW vs SAW: Match Details Date : June 13, 2026 (Saturday) Time : 7 PM IST Venue : Emirates Old Trafford, Manchester AUSW vs SAW Live Streaming Details The live action of the AUSW vs SAW will be available on the Star Sports networks. Fans can also watch the game through the JioHotstar app or website. AUSW vs SAW Head-to-Head in T20Is Total Matches : 11 Australia Women : 09 South Africa Women : 02 No - Result : 00 AUSW vs SAW: Ground Pitch Report Old Trafford has been a good T20I wicket. It has good bounce and pace, and fast bowlers will be in the game. There might not be much assistance for the spinners. Batting conditions will get better with time. AUSW vs SAW Possible XIs AUSW : Georgia Voll, Phoebe Litchfield, Beth Mooney (wk), Ellyse Perry, Ashleigh Gardner, Annabel Sutherland, Nicola Carey, Georgia Wareham, Sophie Molineux (c), Kim Garth, Alana King SAW : Sune Luus, Laura Wolvaardt (c), Tanzim Brits, Marizanne Kapp, Nadine de Klerk, Chloe Tryon, Annerie Dercksen, Shabnim Ismail, Sinalo Jafta (wk), Nonkululeko Mlaba, Ayabonga Khaka AUSW vs SAW Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Laura Wolvaardt and Ellyse Perry are two experienced batters from two teams, and they will be looking to take their teams off to a good start. Probable Best Bowler Shabnim Ismail and Alana King have been in wicket-taking form for their teams in recent times. Today Match Prediction : Australia Women are the superior side to South Africa. Hence, we predict Australia Women will win on Saturday. AUSW vs SAW Match 3, ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026, Today 2026 Match, AUSW vs SAW 2026 Prediction, AUSW vs SAW Predicted XIs, Injury Update for AUSW vs SAW 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.

SCO-W vs IRE-W Match 2, Women's T20 World Cup 2026: Preview, Predicted XIs, Player Tips & Match Prediction

SCO-W vs IRE-W Match 2 , Cricket Tips :The second game of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 will be played between Scotland Women and Ireland Women. This contest will commence on Saturday at Emirates Old Trafford, Manchester, at 3 PM IST. Both teams will play their first game of the tournament. This match is played in Group A. All teams will play five group matches. Scotland Women won both warm-up matches, while Ireland Women had a close game against South Africa. They beat Bangladesh in their second warm-up game. Both sides are looking very good, and it will be a tough contest. SCO-W vs IRE-W: Match Details Date : June 13, 2026 (Saturday) Time : 3 PM IST Venue : Emirates Old Trafford, Manchester SCO-W vs IRE-W Live Streaming Details Indian fans can watch the SCOW vs IREW on the Star Sports Networks. Fans can catch the live stream on the Jio Hotstar app or website. SCO-W vs IRE-W Head-to-Head in T20Is Total Matches : 16 Scotland Women : 10 Ireland Women : 06 No - Result : 00 SCO-W vs IRE-W: Ground Pitch Report The wicket in Manchester is bowling-friendly. The wicket will assist the fast bowlers with the new ball. There will be swing and movement, and it is expected to remain consistent throughout the game. The wicket is expected to get better with time for the batters. SCO-W vs IRE-W Possible XIs SCOW : Darcey Carter, Kathryn Bryce (C), Sarah Bryce (wk), Katherine Fraser, Priyanaz Chatterji, Ailsa Lister, Rachel Slater, Megan McColl, Chloe Abel, Abtaha Maqsood, Kirstie Gordon IREW : Alana Dalzell, Arlene Kelly, Rebecca Stokell, Orla Prendergast (C), Leah Paul, Alice Tector, Christina Reilly (wk), Louise Little, Ava Canning, Lara McBride, Cara Murray SCO-W vs IRE-W Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Kathryn Bryce and Orla Prendergast will be important batters for two sides in this game. Probable Best Bowler Kirstie Gordon for Scotland and Ava Canning for Ireland hold the key with the ball. Today Match Prediction : Scotland Women have a good record against Ireland Women, and their combination is also better across all departments. Hence, we predict Scotland Women to beat Ireland Women on Saturday. SCO-W vs IRE-W Match 2, ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026, Today 2026 Match, SCO-W vs IRE-W 2026 Prediction, SCO-W vs IRE-W Predicted XIs, Injury Update for SCO-W vs IRE-W 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.

Hard-fought Victories For Koylanchal Super Kings And Jamshedpur Steelers On Day Three Of Jharkhand T20

Jharkhand T20 Cricket League: Koylanchal Super Kings and the Jamshedpur Steelers secured hard-fought victories over Chota Nagpur Royals and Dhanbad Diamonds respectively on day three of the Jharkhand T20 Cricket League held at the JSCA International Stadium Complex. Koylanchal Super Kings won by five wickets while Jamshedpur Steelers sealed their victory by 7 runs. In the opening match of the day on Friday, Chota Nagpur Royals were bowled out for 190 in 19.4 overs. Chandan Kumar Mukhi top-scored for his side with a brisk 49. He was well-supported by openers MD Nazim Siddiqui (41) and Virat Singh (36) in the innings. For the Koylanchal Super Kings, Shubh Sharma was the pick of the bowlers, returning figures of 3/43 in his 3.4 overs. Chasing a target of 191, Koylanchal Super Kings got off to a flyer as Utkarsh Singh (53) and Player of the Match Sharandeep Singh Bhatia (79) stitched together a commanding 122-run opening partnership. A late cameo from Shubh Sharma guided the team home in 19.1 overs, finishing at 192/5 to seal a five-wicket victory with five balls to spare. For the Royals, Suprieyo Chakraborty, only the third bowler in the league to claim a five-wicket haul, bowled a magnificent spell of 5/29 in vain. The second encounter of the day saw another batting masterclass as the Jamshedpur Steelers posted a formidable total of 202/6 with Adarsh Giri (41) and Kumar Debobrat (24) performing with the bat. For Dhanbad Diamonds, Shamshed Ahmad led the bowling attack with figures of 4/39, while Atul Singh Surwar chipped in with 2/33. Chasing a target of 191, Koylanchal Super Kings got off to a flyer as Utkarsh Singh (53) and Player of the Match Sharandeep Singh Bhatia (79) stitched together a commanding 122-run opening partnership. A late cameo from Shubh Sharma guided the team home in 19.1 overs, finishing at 192/5 to seal a five-wicket victory with five balls to spare. For the Royals, Suprieyo Chakraborty, only the third bowler in the league to claim a five-wicket haul, bowled a magnificent spell of 5/29 in vain. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Pratik Ranjan was the star with the ball for Jamshedpur, returning economical figures of 3/27 to turn the tide in the middle overs. Ravi Sharma took 2/24 in his 3 overs and the player of the match trophy for his contribution of 30* off 19 balls runs with the bat as well. Article Source: IANS

IND vs AFG 1st ODI Prediction, Match Preview And Playing XI

IND vs AFG 1st ODI , Cricket Tips :Team India will be back in action for a three-match ODI series. They beat Afghanistan in the one-off test by an innings and 300 runs. The first ODI between India and Afghanistan will be played at Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Dharamsala, on Saturday at 1:30 PM IST. Shubman Gill will lead the high-profile Indian side. The hosts will miss Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, and Mohammed Siraj due to injuries, while Jasprit Bumrah has been rested. Afghanistan have a star-studded lineup, and they can surprise Indians on their day. India can't take Afghanistan lightly, and we might see a good contest. IND vs AFG: Match Details Date : June 13, 2026 (Saturday) Time : 1:30 PM IST Venue : Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Dharamsala IND vs AFG: Live Streaming Details Indian fans can watch the live action of the first ODI on Star Sports Networks. Fans can also access the live stream on the Jio Hotstar app or website. IND vs AFG: Head-to-Head in ODIs Total Matches : 04 India : 03 Afghanistan : 00 Drawn : 01 IND vs AFG: Ground Pitch Report The wicket at HPCA Stadium is fast and bouncy. Fast bowlers will get good assistance from the wicket. The overcast conditions can make the outfield slow. The batting conditions will be a little challenging, but these are expected to settle with time. IND vs AFG: Possible XIs India : Shubman Gill (c), Rohit Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Prince Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna Afghanistan : Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Sediq Atal, Rahmat Shah, Hasmatullah Shahidi (c), Azmatullah Omarzai, Md. Nabi, Rashid Khan, AM Ghazanfar, Ziaur Rahman Sharifi, Fareed Malik IND vs AFG: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Shubman Gill is in fantastic form and will be a big wicket in this game. For Afghanistan, Ibrahim Zadran has been the top scorer and has scored consistently. Probable Best Bowler Arshdeep Singh will get good assistance from the wicket and will be a tough bowler to face. Rashid Khan will have a big role in this game for Afghanistan. Today Match Prediction :India are superior to Afghanistan in all departments. Hence, we predict India to win the first ODI. IND vs AFG Match 1st ODI, Today Match IND vs AFG, IND vs AFG Prediction, IND vs AFG Predicted XIs, Injury Update for India vs Afghanistan Match Also Read: Live Cricket Score Disclaimer : The prediction or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.

T20 Mumbai League: Royals Eye Title Defence Against Andheri; Falcons, Tigers Set For Historic Womens Final

League Governing Council Rajdip Gupta: The stage is set for a blockbuster finish to the T20 Mumbai League 2026, with defending champions MSC Maratha Royals taking on Arcs Andheri in the final at the Wankhede Stadium on Saturday. Earlier in the day, the venue will also witness history unfolding when SOBO Mumbai Falcons battle against Aakash Tigers MWS in the inaugural final of the T20 Mumbai Womens League. The mens final pits two in-form sides against each other. Arcs Andheri, led by India all-rounder Shivam Dube, secured their place in the summit clash with a five-wicket win over Aakash Tigers MWS in the semifinal. MSC Maratha Royals, meanwhile, continued their title defence with a hard-fought three-wicket victory over Ajinkya Rahane-led North Mumbai Panthers in the second semi-final. While Andheri have been one of the most consistent teams this season, Siddhesh Lads Royals have shown their ability to rise to the occasion when it matters most. The contest promises an intriguing battle between Dube's explosive leadership and Lad's calm tactical approach as both teams chase the coveted trophy. Hailing the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) for the smooth conduct of the tournament, Dube said his team is looking ahead to a great clash against the Royals in the final. MCA has organised this amazing league, which is one of the best leagues in India. The quality of matches has been really good. Im really excited for the final, Dube said. Lad also sounded confident ahead of a second successive final appearance, saying, Its been a great campaign built on teamwork and character. Different players have stepped up at different times, and thats what has brought us here. For the final, well keep it simple, focus on the process, win the small moments, and enjoy the occasion. If we do that, we give ourselves a strong chance of winning . Led by MCA President Ajinkya Naik and Chairman of League Governing Council Rajdip Gupta, the league has showcased the next generation of Mumbai cricket stars, including Arjun Tendulkar, Musheer Khan, and many more, all set to shine on the biggest stage. The tournament has also witnessed several standout individual performances. Bandra Blasters captain Suved Parkar leads the batting charts with 250 runs, including a century and two fifties, and currently holds the Orange Cap. Arcs Andheri's Ajay Mishra tops the bowling charts with 10 wickets and is the Purple Cap holder. Among other notable performers, Nutan Goel of Triumph Knights MNE has scored 242 runs, while Aakash Tigers batter Jay Bista has accumulated 225 runs. Divyaansh Sksena has contributed 210 runs for Andheri, while Eagle Thane Strikers' Shashwat Jagtap is the other centurion of the tournament. Sylvester Dsouza's five-wicket haul remains the best bowling performance of the season. Falcons, Tigers battle for inaugural womens crown In the women's competition, Sayali Satghare-led SOBO Mumbai Falcons will take on Humairaa Kaazi's Aakash Tigers MWS in the race for the inaugural title. The Tigers boast a formidable batting line-up, while the Falcons will rely on a potent bowling attack that has delivered consistently throughout the tournament. Commenting on her teams strength, Sayali highlighted how different players contributed across the competition and expected the same in the title clash. I think the best thing about our team is that everyone has contributed in different games. In our three wins, we had different Player of the Match winners, so were not dependent on one or two individuals. Thats a really good sign as we go into the final. All of them are doing their roles really well and executing the plans just as we have planned. Looking forward to the final, all the girls are really excited, and Im sure its going to be a great game of cricket, said the India star. Humairaa also exuded confidence in her teams ability to navigate through multiple challenges before the final. It feels great to have reached the final. We have grown stronger with each game and have shown great character as a team throughout the tournament. We've faced different challenges along the way, and the way the team has responded under pressure has been very pleasing to see. We're excited for the final and the opportunity to compete for the title. It's a big occasion, and we'll look to enjoy the moment, play good cricket, and give our absolute best, she said. Among the top performers with the bat so far, Sanika Chalke of Aakash Tigers leads the run-scoring charts with 205 runs, including two half-centuries. Thane Sky Risers' Mansi Patil follows with 166 runs, while Falcons batter Sarika Koli has chipped in with 108 runs. It feels great to have reached the final. We have grown stronger with each game and have shown great character as a team throughout the tournament. We've faced different challenges along the way, and the way the team has responded under pressure has been very pleasing to see. We're excited for the final and the opportunity to compete for the title. It's a big occasion, and we'll look to enjoy the moment, play good cricket, and give our absolute best, she said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The womens final will be played at 1 PM, followed by the mens final, starting at 7 PM. Article Source: IANS

Jordan Cox celebrates Test call-up with unbeaten 184

Essex race into the ascendancy despite being 8 for 2 after delayed start at Grace Road

Liam Livingstone marks return with five-wicket haul as Kent crumble

Ben Dawkins notches fifty but Lancashire seize control via post-tea collapse

Jordan Hermann's first Somerset century edges defending champions

The South African left-hander was supported by a maiden half-century from Thomas Rew

Jaydev Unadkat takes four as Sussex dominate

Unadkat led an inspired bowling performance to skittle Glamorgan for 155

Honours even as Adam Finch and Leus du Plooy trade blows

Finch eventually won the battle, dismissing du Plooy for 85 on undulating opening day at New Road

Yorkshire enjoy Scarborough stroll thanks to Luxton's maiden first-class ton

Young opener builds solid partnerships with Lyth, Whiteman, Revis and Bairstow

Zaib, McSweeney bag centuries as Gloucestershire toil

Centurions combined for a new highest fourth wicket stand for Northamptonshire against Gloucestershire

Womens T20 WC: 'Visionary Thinking Needed', Says Anjum Chopra On Recurring Injuries To All-rounders

T20 World Cup: With India leaning on a five-bowler combination for the 2026 ICC Womens T20 World Cup due to injuries to key seam-bowling allrounders Amanjot Kaur and Kashvee Gautam, former captain Anjum Chopra has said that visionary thinking' is needed to manage their loads more effectively. The absence of Amanjot due to a back injury has already hurt the teams balance, with their bowling combination still having an unsettled look. Meanwhile, Kashvee and fellow seam-bowling all-rounder Pooja Vastrakar, who has spent most of the last two years at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (COE) and is currently in action in the MP Womens T20 League, have also battled extended injury layoffs. See, injuries basically, it can happen to anyone. It doesn't come calling. But obviously, for a player who is coming out of an injury, CoE gives a ready-to-play certificate once they feel that the player is ready after doing the rehab and completing all the formalities - once they give it and once you walk into a team, then as a player, normally you don't hold yourself back. You try to start from where you actually finished before you picked up the injury. So there are no half measures in it. But the body does not know that. It takes time to acclimatise, get back into that fluency, and gain that strength. Now, in this middle phase or period, there will be some times when a player obviously requires assistance, rest, and a lower workload. People are obviously well qualified who are there with the teams. They come in from the Centre of Excellence. So they know exactly what's happening. I'm hoping there is good communication between the CoE and the ones who are handling the players in the present team, that is, the physios and trainers. So if that fluency is there, then it just needs to be managed very well, Anjum told IANS in an exclusive conversation ahead of India starting its T20 World Cup campaign against Pakistan at Edgbaston on Sunday. Amanjot had missed out on a lot of cricketing action in 2024 due to a stress fracture in her back and a hand ligament tear. She returned strongly in the 2025 WPL and played a key role in Indias triumphant ODI World Cup campaign, despite needing treatment for minor flare-ups at the CoE. But a back injury and its ongoing recovery meant Amanjot was unavailable for the T20 World Cup, to be played in England from Friday till July 5. Kashvee, meanwhile, was ruled out of the entire WPL 2024 season due to a severe foot injury. In 2025, she suffered a leg injury while playing in the ODI tri-series in Sri Lanka, with scans later revealing that it was a severe right knee injury. During the T20 World Cup squad announcement press conference, it was announced that Kashvee was ruled out due to a right knee issue needing surgery. This situation has raised wider concerns over the fitness and longevity of Indias premium seam-bowling all-rounders. With the kind of workload that Amanjot Kaur or even Kashvee Gautam has, they are running around the park for 40 overs - either they are bowling, they are batting, or they are fielding, and that is what you expect from players like them. But somebody who is coming out of an injury back-to-back, playing matches or lesser time to recover, or maybe playing with a niggle, which can happen to anybody - I guess it's just about understanding how better managed these injuries can be. If somebody requires rest, should they be given or should they be pushed to go and do a drill which can be avoided? So, I mean, to be fair, I wouldn't know the exact part. But all I know is that if a player is valuable, then she or he needs to be nurtured, protected, and preserved as well, added Anjum. The buzz within the cricketing circles has been that when a player is declared fully fit, it takes time to regain full intensity at the international level, and it must be factored in while managing their return to playing or even the loads they are put through on match and non-match days. According to those aware of the developments, instead of managing for the long term, the pacers and all-rounders are pushed to bowl much more overs than planned in practice, with recovery periods cut short, resulting in overload. The buzz within the circuit has also pointed to a lack of consistency in load management, with decisions around the number of overs bowled in practice sessions decided on whims and fancies rather than a sorted structure. Many experts have claimed that this has led to recurring injuries, which have depleted the pool of seam-bowling allrounders and, in turn, have hurt the side in the lead-up to the T20 World Cup. A well-placed source told IANS that the responsibility of managing players rests with the team management rather than the CoE, as the team management has the discretion to decide whom to push and whom to rest - depending on the roles assigned to the squad members. The source added that recurring injuries place accountability on the team management, as they have access to all the relevant data, while pointing out that the blame has often been shifted to external people or support staff. The source also stressed that it is the head coach and team management who must ultimately take ownership of decisions made in handling players. A well-placed source told IANS that the responsibility of managing players rests with the team management rather than the CoE, as the team management has the discretion to decide whom to push and whom to rest - depending on the roles assigned to the squad members. Also Read: Live Cricket Score So, I guess a little bit more visionary thinking and proper planning can be done. I am sure it would be done at that level also. But because the result doesn't say so, that's why we are talking about the fact that I wish it were better handled, concluded Anjum. Article Source: IANS

Women's T20 WC: ICC Chairman Jay Shah Extends His Best Wishes To Participating Teams

ICC Chairman Jay Shah: International Cricket Council (ICC) Chairman Jay Shah has extended his best wishes to all 12 nations that will be participating in the ICC Women's T20 World Cup, which started with a clash between co-hosts England and Sri Lanka at Edgbaston, Birmingham, on Friday. Jay Shah praised the players for their commitment, talent, and determination, which he said will inspire fans for generations. As the ICC Womens #T20WorldCup begins, I extend my best wishes to all 12 participating teams. Your commitment, talent, and determination continue to inspire fans and pave the way for future generations. May this tournament showcase the very best of womens cricket and take the sport to even greater heights, Jay Shah wrote in a post on X, formerly Twitter. New Zealand are the defending champion in the 10th edition of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup, which is being hosted by the England and Wales Cricket Board, with the final scheduled for July 6. England had previously hosted the inaugural competition in 2009. A total of twelve teams are competing in 33 matches across seven venues in England. Defending champions New Zealand will begin their campaign against West Indies in the fourth match of the tournament at the Rose Bowl on Saturday. Having lifted their maiden Women's T20 World Cup title in the UAE in 2024, the White Ferns enter the competition with confidence and will be eager to make a strong start to the defence of their crown. Led by star all-rounder Melia Kerr, New Zealand are among the favourites to progress from a competitive Group 2. West Indies, captained by Hayley Matthews, will be looking to bounce back after a disappointing 3-0 T20I series defeat to England earlier this year. The Caribbean side possesses several match-winners and will be keen to upset the defending champions in their opening fixture. Australia, the most successful team in the tournament, will kick off its ICC Womens T20 World Cup 2026 campaign with a challenging Group 1 clash against South Africa at Old Trafford on Saturday. West Indies, captained by Hayley Matthews, will be looking to bounce back after a disappointing 3-0 T20I series defeat to England earlier this year. The Caribbean side possesses several match-winners and will be keen to upset the defending champions in their opening fixture. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The Proteas will once again be led by Laura Wolvaardt, who captains the side in her second consecutive T20 World Cup. South Africa will hope to carry forward the momentum they have built over recent years and challenge one of the most dominant teams in the history of the competition. Article Source: IANS

Sri Lanka win toss and bowl in World Cup opener at Edgbaston

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Cricket, Spirituality Come Together Ahead Of ODI In Dharamsala!

Former Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association: With the opening One Day International (ODI) match between India and Afghanistan is slated on Saturday at the iconic cricket stadium in Dharamsala, one of the most beautiful grounds located at an altitude of 4,000 feet above sea level, cricket and spirituality came together in a unique Himachali way. Former Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) President and Member of Parliament Anurag Thakur accompanying cricket body office-bearers on Friday sought blessings of the revered Lord Indrunag deity so that rain doesn't play a spoilsport as the Meteorological Department predicted rain and thundershowers. The temple dedicated to the rain god is located in hills overlooking the stadium. Cricket fans, too, participated in the prayers. For generations, Lord Indrunag has been regarded as the protector of the Kangra Valley and a divine guardian associated with favourable weather and overall prosperity. Seeking the blessings before major international matches has become a cherished tradition, reflecting the unique bond between cricket, culture and faith in Dharamsala, the abode of Tibetan spiritual leader The Dalai Lama, an HPCA functionary told IANS. The stadium, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, has 12 corporate boxes, each having a seating capacity of 20 seats. Each box was much in demand in all the previous matches, both international and T20. A Met official in Shimla said widespread rains and thundershowers might occur in the region till June 14 due to fresh Western disturbance over north Pakistan and adjoining Jammu and Kashmir. Sustained wind with a speed 40-50 km per hour is likely to prevail in state's Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti districts till June 13, he added. Meanwhile, the cricket fever across Dharamsala is electrifying as fans from across the country are set to descend to witness the match. Former Indian captain Rohit Sharma, captain Shubman Gill, along with several other Indian stars, have already arrived here, further fuelling excitement among cricket lovers. Fresh snowfall this week on the stadium's overlooking majestic Dhauladhar ranges has transformed the mountains chucking with a breathtaking panorama. The snow-clad peaks have once again reminded the fans that why Dharamsala's showpiece stadium is widely regarded as the most beautiful venue on the planet. With crystal-clear mountain air, pleasant weather and unmatched Himalayan vistas, the ODI promises to be far more than a cricket match, it will be a celebration of sport, culture, spirituality and nature. Speaking on the occasion, HPCA Secretary Manuj Sharma told the media that with the blessings of Indrunag deity all preparations for the match have been completed and the association is looking forward to hosting another memorable international fixture. Former Union Minister Anurag Thakur said this cricket stadium has become one of Himachal Pradesh's greatest ambassadors on the global stage. From its humble beginnings to becoming one of the most admired cricket venues in the world, Dharamsala has showcased the beauty, culture and hospitality of Himachal Pradesh to millions across the globe. International matches have generated employment, strengthened tourism and brought immense pride to the people of the state. The HPCA has consistently delivered world-class events, and tomorrow's ODI will be another memorable chapter in this remarkable journey, an elated Thakur, the brain behind the stadium, said. It is a matter of pride that Dharamsala continues to host some of the most prestigious matches in world cricket. The response from fans has been overwhelming, and we are confident that tomorrow's match will be a memorable experience for players and spectators alike, he added. Incidentally, the last international match at the HPCA Stadium between India and South Africa -- a T20I -- was washed out without a ball being bowled in September 2019. HPCA Spokesperson Mohit Sood told IANS that in case of rain, the ground would be ready in less than two hours. Our drainage system is very effective to drain out rainwater. Also, we have water soaking machines and a lightweight plastic cover for covering the entire ground, he said. Stadium's air evacuation system will not only mob up excess rainwater within no time, but also helps aerate the root zone which keeps the plant healthy all throughout. The SIS Air evacuation system is a technology developed by SIS Pitches Holland, a UK-based company, installed by its India partner GreaterTEN of Mumbai. With the excitement soaring high, members of the local hospitality industry see good business prospects. They say this weekend will be giving an opportunity to cricket fans to enjoy chilly weather amid prevailing heatwave conditions in plains. The SIS Air evacuation system is a technology developed by SIS Pitches Holland, a UK-based company, installed by its India partner GreaterTEN of Mumbai. Also Read: Live Cricket Score (Vishal Gulati can be contacted at vishal.g@ians.in) Article Source: IANS

1st ODI: India Will Play Around No.3 Slot In Virat Kohlis Absence, Says Morkel

Indian Premier League: Indias fast bowling coach Morne Morkel has indicated that the team will experiment with the number three batting position in Virat Kohlis absence during the threematch ODI series against Afghanistan, starting at the HPCA Stadium on Saturday. Kohli was ruled out of the three ODIs against Afghanistan due to a hamstring injury picked up while hitting a match-winning 75 not out in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 final against the Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad. In his absence, Ishan Kishan, KL Rahul, and Yashasvi Jaiswal are in contention to bat at number three. I think thats something that in this series well play around with, (whether) its Ishan (Kishan) or KL (Rahul) or Yashasvi (Jaiswal). We have got a couple of oneday games coming up, and well give guys an opportunity in different slots to give ourselves a better idea of how we can structure teams and have different options, Morkel said in the pre-match press conference. Rahul has largely featured as a middle-order batter in the past five years, but in Indias training session on Friday, Kishan was on keeping duties while Rahul was tasked with taking outfield catches, thus raising the prospect of the Karnataka lad being promoted up the order for Saturdays clash. Morkel also spoke about the new pacers Prince Yadav and Gurnoor Brar, who are in line to get their international debuts in the series, with the next two games to be played in Lucknow and Chennai on June 17 and 20, respectively. First impressions, it is almost like theyve been part of the squad for five years. I saw no nervousness on their face. The way theyve gone about training, the energy theyve trained with, was good to see, he said. Morkel signed off by saying that Rohit Sharma was all fine after being spotted training with a different thigh pad, initially thought as protection for his hamstring, which he injured during IPL 2026. First impressions, it is almost like theyve been part of the squad for five years. I saw no nervousness on their face. The way theyve gone about training, the energy theyve trained with, was good to see, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Rohit is moving well and training well. So excited to see him go. Always nice to have his experience back as well. Just the calmness that he brings to the dressing room is always a positive to have. He's training well, he's moving well. So I know that he's also excited to go. Article Source: IANS

Rohit Would Want To Score Those Big Hundreds That Everyone Expects From Him, Says Piyush Chawla

Vijay Hazare Trophy: Former India legspinner Piyush Chawla has said veteran opener Rohit Sharma will be keen to hit the big hundreds that fans and the team have come to expect from him when the threematch ODI series against Afghanistan begins in Dharamshala on Saturday. When you are playing just one format for India, you want to spend as much time at the crease as possible because, no matter how much net practice or match simulation you do, an international match, regardless of the opposition, is a different challenge. So, as a batter, you want to score big runs and, if he is completely fit, he would want to score those big hundreds that everyone has come to expect from him. Because more than those quick 40s and 50s, the team would want those innings of 120-130 runs off 100 deliveries from Rohit, said Chawla on JioHotstar. On potential debutants during the series, Chawla felt Delhi-based rookie pacer Prince Yadav could get a chance. All three of Gurnoor, Harsh Dubey, and Prince Yadav might get an opportunity during the series as an audition, especially if India win the first two games. But I see Prince Yadav as the strongest contender to get a chance among them. Not just in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, even in the IPL, under pressure, he executed his plans, bowled those yorkers consistently, and took wickets. So, my eyes will definitely be on him. Quizzed on who fills the number three slot in Virat Kohlis absence and the bowling combination with no Hardik Pandya around, Chawla said the likes of Yashasvi Jaiswal, Washington Sundar, and Kuldeep Yadav should be backed to fill those vacancies in the playing eleven. Yashasvi Jaiswal hasnt done anything wrong. In the last ODI he played, he scored a century against South Africa. But given the current form, I feel Ishan Kishan would get the nod. And when you travel for a World Cup, you need a backup wicketkeeper, so he fits both those roles, a backup opener, and a backup keeper. Among the spinners, I would go with Washington Sundar and Kuldeep Yadav. Washington helps extend the batting until No. 8, and Kuldeep will take care of the middle overs. If you look at his ODI numbers, not many bowlers are even close to him. Among the pacers, I would like Arshdeep to get some game time, a bowler who can pick up early wickets, along with Prasidh Krishna. Among the spinners, I would go with Washington Sundar and Kuldeep Yadav. Washington helps extend the batting until No. 8, and Kuldeep will take care of the middle overs. Also Read: Live Cricket Score You will have Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi operating in the middle overs. And we know that Indian batters in the middle order like to show their intent against spin, so it will be a fascinating battle. That phase of the game will play an important role in determining the outcome. Article Source: IANS

Saturday at T20 World Cup: Ismail's return, reruns of 2024 semis, and some rain

A look at the first triple-header of the Women's T20 World Cup

Bengal T20 League: Rishabh, Saksham, And Toufik Help Murshidabad Kings Register First Win Of Season 3

Bengal T20 League Season: A dominant all-round performance helped Murshidabad Kings secure their first victory of the Bengal T20 League Season 3, defeating Rashmi Nes Medinipur Wizards by 28 runs via the DLS Method at Eden Gardens on Thursday. Batting first, Murshidabad Kings posted an imposing 201/5 in their 20 overs. Rishabh Chaudhary led the charge with a fluent 71 off 49 deliveries, while Saksham Chaudhary contributed a well-made 50 off 37 balls. Toufik Uddin Mondal provided the late flourish with a blistering 37 off just 17 deliveries to take his side past the 200-run mark. For Medinipur Wizards, Debopratim Halder was the most successful bowler, claiming two wickets. In reply, Medinipur Wizards struggled to keep pace with the required rate and were 95/5 in 11.5 overs when rain interrupted play. With conditions preventing any further action, Murshidabad Kings were declared winners by 28 runs under the DLS Method. Priyanshu Gaurav Srivastava top-scored for the Wizards with 32 off 22 balls, but the Murshidabad bowlers kept the batting line-up under pressure throughout the chase. Toufik capped off an impressive all-round outing by returning figures of 3/28, playing a key role in guiding Murshidabad Kings to a memorable victory. The Bengal T20 League is a franchise-based T20 cricket competition organised under the aegis of the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB). Now in its third season, the league features eight city-based franchises representing the breadth of West Bengal - Adamas Howrah Warriors, Novus Royals Purulia, Kolkata Royal Tigers, Murshidabad Kings & Kueens, Rashmi Nes Medinipur Wizards, Servotech Siliguri Strikers, Shrachi Rarh Tigers, and Sobisco Smashers Malda competing across men's and women's competitions. Men's matches are held at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, with women's matches at the JU Salt Lake Campus, Kolkata. Brief scores: Murshidabad Kings vs Rashmi NES Medinipur Wizards Murshidabad Kings: 201/5 (20 overs) Murshidabad Kings vs Rashmi NES Medinipur Wizards Also Read: Live Cricket Score Result: Murshidabad Kings won by 28 runs (DLS Method) Article Source: IANS