CA Approves Renegades Sale As BBL Privatisation Begins
Cricket Australia Board: Cricket Australia Board has officially agreed to private investment into the Big Bash Leagues, beginning with the launch of a sales process for the Melbourne Renegades. CA on Tuesday announced that it would invite bids from private owners for a 100 per cent stake in the Renegades, with a view to club playing the 2027-28 WBBL and BBL season under new ownership. The sale process will not affect the coming WBBL or BBL seasons, with the Renegades being run in caretaker mode by CA. The decision to proceed with this self-determination model was made in the best interests of all aspects of Australian Cricket and will enhance funding for community, domestic and international pathways and elite cricket; protect the primacy of Test Cricket; continue to develop and engage the best players in our national teams and the Big Bash Leagues and grow our brands, fan engagement and commercial strength, CA said in a statement. It added, CA will continue constructive discussions with its members and the Australian Cricketers Association while the Renegades sales process proceeds. CA also said Once the Renegades licence has been sold, it will consider taking other clubs to market under a self-determination model that gives each state member the ability to assess the optimal pathway for its own club and community. The Hobart Hurricanes, Melbourne Stars and Perth Scorchers are the other clubs are reportedly keen to bring in private investment. Meanwhile, Cricket NSW's two Sydney-based teams the Sixers and Thunder as well as the Brisbane Heat and Adelaide Strikers are understood to be reluctant to proceed with private investment at this stage. Under the sales process, changes to club names, colours and branding would need to be approved by CA in the case of the Renegades, and by the relevant state body for sales of other clubs. CA chair Mike Baird said in a statement the governing body would retain control over international scheduling, player availability, salary caps and media rights. Under the sales process, changes to club names, colours and branding would need to be approved by CA in the case of the Renegades, and by the relevant state body for sales of other clubs. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Importantly, CA and its members will maintain control over the most significant aspects of Australian Cricket operations, including international scheduling, player availability, the Big Bash Leagues salary caps, branding proposals as well as the reserve price for a licence to operate that must be achieved, and approval of investors. Article Source: IANS
Cricket Australia announces sale of Big Bash League franchise to private investors
The Renegades, BBL champions in the 2018-19 season, are owned by Cricket Victoria, which backed CA's original plan.
Chapman Shifts To Casual NZC Contract To Pursue BBL Opportunity
Australian Big Bash League: Batter Mark Chapman has made the decision to shift to a casual contract with New Zealand Cricket for the 2026-27 season to pursue an opportunity in the Australian Big Bash League (BBL). Chapmans shift means Northern Districts fast bowler Matthew Fisher earns his first ever central contract and completes the list of 20 players for the 2026-27 season. NZC said Chapman will remain available for selection for the upcoming India tour of New Zealand alongside the four other casually contracted players in Finn Allen, Lockie Ferguson, Adam Milne and Tim Seifert. Im thankful to New Zealand Cricket for their support now and throughout my career. The upcoming India series is one all us players are really excited for, and Im committed wholeheartedly to performing in that series, Chapman said. Fisher, who has featured in all three formats, recently took a career-best ODI figures of 3-40 against the West Indies to help seal just the second ODI series win in the West Indies for New Zealand. New Zealand Cricket chief high performance officer Daryl Gibson said the shift creates exciting opportunity across the high performance system. With Matt Fisher coming onto the central contract list, it creates a space at Northern Districts to bring another athlete onto their contract list to continue their development. Matt has impressed with the opportunities hes had for the BlackCaps, and his pace is definitely something we want to nurture, he said. With a full schedule of Test cricket over the upcoming home summer, the decision to bring in Fisher as another fast bowler was one made with squad depth in mind, as selection manager Gavin Larsen explained. With the heavy schedule of cricket coming up, notably the Test matches against India, Australia, and Sri Lanka, we know well need good depth in our fast-bowling stocks to give the BlackCaps the best chance of success. With Matt Fisher coming onto the central contract list, it creates a space at Northern Districts to bring another athlete onto their contract list to continue their development. Matt has impressed with the opportunities hes had for the BlackCaps, and his pace is definitely something we want to nurture, he said. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories New Zealand will kick off the home summer with the historic 12 match India tour of New Zealand, as Hagley Oval host the first two of five T20Is. Article Source: IANS
Duleep Trophy Final: South Zone Face Uphill Task On Day 3
South Zone's batting llne-up face an uphill task on Day 3 as they look to bounce back with the bat after East Zone posted a mammoth 708 in their first innings in the Duleep Trophy final in Chennai on Tuesday.
Aryan Savsani and Tanmay Baloda replace suspended Rohit Yadav in India Under-19 squads
Rohit Yadav, a legspinner who was part of the India Under-19 tour of Sri Lanka in July this year, was handed a two-year ban for age discrepancy last Friday
3rd Test: Amid Massive Criticism, Pakistan Eye Consolation Win Over England
Pakistan will try to salvage something from the wreckage of a woeful tour of England with an upset victory in the third Test at Edgbaston starting on Wednesday.
Duleep Trophy Final: Why East Zone Batted For Two Days. BCCI's Anti-Declaration Rule Explained
East Zone batted for two full days in the Duleep Trophy final, scoring 708 runs against South Zone before being bowled out.
Duleep Trophy Final LIVE Score Updates, East Zone vs South Zone Day 3: South Zone have a massive challenge at hand after East Zone posted 708 in their first innings.
Pakistan Great Drops Bombshell, Reveals PCB's 'True Purpose' Behind Squad Shake Up
Changes contiue to be made in the Pakistan men's national team, with several players and coaches facing the axe ahead of the third Test against England.
KL Rahul's Unmissable Comment As Kevin Pietersen Joins England Team As Mentor
KL Rahul's Maldives comment on Kevin Pietersen's appointment as England's white-ball mentor left the internet in stitches.
708 Runs, 10 Wickets: Duleep Trophy Final Yawn!
What should have been a top-draw domestic red-ball clash to kick off the new season featuring some of India's Test stars has quickly turned into a lopsided contest, courtesy of a lifeless pitch heavily loaded in favour of the batters.
Ishan Kishan Recalls Losing BCCI Contract, Reveals Big 'Realisation' After Duleep Trophy Double Ton
After losing his BCCI central contract, Ishan Kishan embraced leadership roles, leading East Zone to a Duleep Trophy final double century.
Chapman shifts to casual New Zealand contract to play in the BBL
Chapman set to play in the white-ball series against India in November before heading to the BBL with seamer Matt Fisher elevated to the full-time contract list
Captain Mil Gaya Hai KKR Ko: IPL Legend's Big Verdict Ahead Of 2027 Season
Former India cricketer and Indian Premier League (IPL) great Suresh Raina stated that KKR's best captaincy candidate may already be sitting in their dugout.
US Open PIX: Rybakina whips Osaka to reach quarter-finals
Elena Rybakina defeated Naomi Osaka 6-1, 6-4 to reach the quarter-finals of the US Open, moving closer to her third Grand Slam title and potentially the world number one ranking.
Rybakina thumps Osaka to reach U.S. Open quarters, close in on top ranking
The flawless victory for Rybakina, who won Wimbledon in 2022 and this year's Australian Open, booked a last-eight clash with Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen and left the Kazakh one match win away from becoming world number one for the first time.
CSA withdraw South African county players ahead of domestic season
Counties will lose key players for final three rounds of Championship following board edict
US Open Photos: Zheng Rallies From 0-5 Down to Shock Swiatek
Chinese qualifier Zheng Qinwen stunned six-time major champion Iga Swiatek 7-5, 6-3 after recovering from 0-5 down, extending her remarkable US Open comeback into the quarter-finals.
Women's Asia Cup: Nashra Sandhu's six-wicket haul helps Pakistan qualify for semis
Digital Desk | Dubai, Sep 7 (IANS) A brilliant maiden six-wicket haul by left-arm spinner Nashra Sandhu in T20Is helped Pakistan Women beat Hong Kong Women by 72 runs in their Group A match of the ACC Womens T20 Asia Cup at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium (DICS) in Dubai on Monday. With this win, Pakistan confirmed their place in the semifinals of the eight-team tournament. Pakistan will now take on Sri Lanka in the second semifinal, scheduled for September 11. Defending a modest total of 144 built mainly on a brisk 47 by Shawaal Zulfiqar, the 28-year-old Nashra never allowed the Hong Kong batters to get going. Wickets fell at regular intervals as Pakistan bowled their opponents out for a paltry 71 to win the match with six balls to spare. Player of the Match Nashra finished with figures of 4-0-7-6, which were also the best bowling figures by a Pakistan womens cricketer in T20Is, surpassing Omaima Sohails five for 13 in four overs against Sri Lanka in Sylhet, Bangladesh in 2022. Earlier, opting to bat first, Pakistan scored 143 for eight in their allotted 20 overs. Right-handed batter Shawaal top-scored with a 35-ball 47, hitting seven fours. Ayesha Zafar (26, 19b, 4x4) and captain Fatima Sana (24 not out, 24b, 2x6) were the other notable run-scorers for Pakistan, who had earlier on Sunday lost to archrivals India in their second match in the league. For Hong Kong, Joyleen Kaur was the most successful bowler, taking four wickets for 19 runs. Pakistan finished second in Group A, earning four points from two wins in three matches. They had won their first match against Thailand in the tournament. Brief scores: Pakistan 143/8 in 20 overs (Shawaal Zulfiqar 47, Ayesha Zafar 26, Fatima Sana 24 not out; Joyleen Kaur 4-19, Iqra Sahar 2-27, Kary Chan 2-33) beat Hong Kong 71 all out in 19 overs (Kary Chan 30; Nashra Sandhu 6-7) by 72 runs
Asian Games | For cricket to grow, it has to be played everywhere: Sunil Gavaskar
Though reports have emerged of the arrangements in Japan for the cricketers not being up to scratch, Gavaskar emphasised that such obstacles shouldnt dissuade the games stakeholders from exploring newer markets
Sandhu's 6 for 7 seals Pakistan's semi-final spot
She became the first Pakistan bowler to bag a six-for in women's T20Is as Pakistan crushed Hong Kong by 72 runs to set up a semi-final date with Sri Lanka
Sher-E-Punjab T20: Abhishek Sharmas Amritsar Soormas Beat Shubman Gills Fazilka Falcons
Punjab T20 League: Amritsar Soormas registered a four-wicket win over Fazilka Falcons in a crucial match of the Sher-E-Punjab T20 League, Powered by Punjab Kings, at the I.S. Bindra Stadium, Mohali, keeping their hopes of reaching the semifinals alive. Batting first, Fazilka Falcons posted a competitive 191/6 in their 20 overs. The Falcons were in early trouble after losing two wickets for just 20 runs, but skipper Shubman Gill and Pranshu Pratap joined hands to rebuild the innings. The two batters showed good composure and gradually increased the scoring rate. Gill and Pranshu added 72 runs for the third wicket, putting Fazilka back on track after their early setbacks. Gill once again led from the front, scoring a brisk 67 off 35 balls. The Fazilka skipper attacked the bowlers and kept the scoreboard moving before he was eventually dismissed. After Gill's departure, Pranshu continued to hold the innings together and was joined by Sanvir Singh. The pair ensured that the Falcons maintained their momentum in the latter stages. Pranshu scored a valuable 40 off 33 balls, while Sanvir provided the late acceleration with a quick-fire 40 off 21 deliveries. His aggressive knock helped Fazilka add important runs in the final overs as they finished with 191/6. For Amritsar, Mayank Markande bowled an economical spell despite not taking a wicket. He conceded just 26 runs in his four overs, keeping the Falcons' batters under control. Chasing 192, Amritsar Soormas made a flying start as Abhishek Sharma and Sahaj Dhawan put the Fazilka bowling attack under pressure. The opening pair added 79 runs for the first wicket, giving the Soormas a strong platform. Sharma played an attacking innings and scored a quick 49 off 15 balls before being dismissed, narrowly missing out on a half-century. Dhawan continued to keep the scoreboard moving, but Amritsar then lost wickets at regular intervals. With the Soormas reduced to 152/5, the pressure began to build. Rahul Kumar then joined Reaven Preet Singh at the crease, and the two focused on taking the team closer to the target without taking unnecessary risks. Sharma played an attacking innings and scored a quick 49 off 15 balls before being dismissed, narrowly missing out on a half-century. Dhawan continued to keep the scoreboard moving, but Amritsar then lost wickets at regular intervals. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Rahul remained composed under pressure and completed his half-century at an important stage of the chase. He eventually scored an unbeaten 53 off 35. He ensured there were no further hiccups and guided the Soormas across the finish line. Article Source: IANS
Duleep final: Karun Nair leaves South Zone squad, puts spotlight on selection
Nair's reply to a social-media post was at odds with South coach Vikram Verma's claim that he left for personal reasons
Dehradun T20 League: Vikasnagar Dhamaka beat Selakui Strikers by 8 wickets
Digital Desk | Dehradun, Sep 7 (IANS) Vikasnagar Dhamaka registered a commanding eight-wicket victory over Selakui Strikers in an exciting rain-curtailed seven-over contest at the Abhimanyu Cricket Academy Ground in the Dehradun T20 League 2026 on Monday. Captain Vishal Kashyap starred with a sensational unbeaten 53 off just 20 balls as Vikasnagar chased down the target of 69 in only 5.3 overs. After winning the toss, Vikasnagar Dhamaka opted to bowl and maintained control from the very beginning. Their bowlers delivered disciplined performances, denying the opposition batters the opportunity to score freely. Vinay Aswal was the standout bowler for Vikasnagar, picking up two crucial wickets for 16 runs in his two overs, while Goldie Malik claimed one wicket, conceding 15 runs in his solitary over. Selakui Strikers began cautiously before attempting to accelerate through the middle overs. They eventually posted 68 for the loss of three wickets in their allotted seven overs. Nitish Joshi led the scoring for Selakui with an aggressive 35 off 13 balls, smashing three fours and three sixes. Sanskar Rawat also contributed 14 runs off 12 balls, including two boundaries. Chasing 69, Vikasnagar Dhamaka made an explosive start. Captain Vishal Kashyap took charge of the innings, playing good shots all around the ground to remain unbeaten on 53 off just 20 deliveries. His innings featured two fours and six towering sixes. Kunal Chandela provided valuable support at the other end, scoring 13 runs off eight balls, as Vikasnagar reached 74 for two in just 5.3 overs to seal a comfortable and emphatic victory, just like we see in international matches.
Karun Nairs ton props up KSCA Secretarys XI
Karun Nair's Bat Does the Talking After Duleep Trophy Snub
Karun Nair, despite scoring a century in a local tournament, was controversially excluded from the South Zone squad for the Duleep Trophy final. This decision has drawn attention given South Zone's struggles against East Zone. Coach Vikram Verma cited team combination and personal reasons for Nair's absence, but his subsequent participation in another match suggests deeper issues.
England Quick Jofra Archer In 'Good Place' After Injuries
England paceman Jofra Archer believes he is now in a good place after a succession of career-threatening injuries but said there had been some benefits from lengthy spells on the sidelines. Barbados-born Archer arrived in the UK in 2015 and four years later he was the spearhead of England's attack in their dramatic World Cup final triumph at Lord's, as well as starring in the 2019 Ashes. But he started to develop an elbow problem later that year, with England captain Joe Root widely criticised for over-bowling the Sussex quick in New Zealand. Elbow and back injuries sidelined Archer from Test duty for more than four years, from February 2021 to July 2025. But the 31-year-old, who plays in all international formats, said there were some positives from his enforced absences. The time when I was injured, I really got away from cricket, he told the BBC on Monday. It's all been a blur. I didn't realise how long the time out was, either. I got to spend some time at home (in Barbados), because, moving over (to the UK), I never really got more than a couple of weeks. To spend a month here and there, it was really nice. He added: I'd be lying if I didn't say I had a good time away from everything. Now, everything is really nice. My body is in a good place, the team is in a good place and everyone is in a good place. I just want to play cricket. Archer is aiming to help England complete a 3-0 whitewash of Pakistan at Edgbaston this week after featuring in crushing wins over the tourists in the first two Tests, at Headingley and Lord's. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories The express bowler has been part of an impressive pace attack also featuring Ollie Robinson, Josh Tongue and Gus Atkinson that has started to draw comparisons with the celebrated Fab Four of Matthew Hoggard, Steve Harmison, Simon Jones and Andrew Flintoff, who helped England win the 2005 Ashes.
'All we can do is add positivity' - Noffke seeks calm as as Pakistan reshape Test attack
Pakistan's interim bowling coach backs Pakistan's young quicks to add pace and variety, and urges the team to block out the chaos
Archer displays his new-found durability ... even if Pakistan have not
Fast bowler is on course to feature in 35 professional fixtures this season, having overcome years of injury
Ongoing Repair Work Behind DY Patil Stadium, Not Being Hosts For Women's Champions Trophy
Vadodara International Cricket Stadium: Ongoing repair work has resulted in Navi Mumbai's DY Patil Stadium missing out on hosting matches for the inaugural Women's Champions Trophy, set to be played in India from February 14 to 28, 2027. Last week, the International Cricket Council (ICC) announced Brabourne Stadium in Mumbai and the Vadodara International Cricket Stadium as the venues for the marquee six-team T20 tournament, after the tournament was taken out of Sri Lanka due to government interference in its boards administration. But the omission of DY Patil Stadium came as a surprise given its status as a spiritual home for women's cricket in the country. The privately-owned venue, situated within the DY Patil University campus, hosted the 2025 Women's ODI World Cup final, where India beat South Africa to win its first-ever senior womens ICC trophy. The venue also remains a primary host for Women's Premier League (WPL) fixtures. Multiple sources have told IANS that extensive repair work across the spectator stands will keep the facility out of action for the foreseeable future. The games were supposed to be held at the venue only, but because the repair work has started there, the venue owners themselves asked to give the games to some other stadium. It is going to take some 6-8 months or so to complete the repair work, an official familiar with the situation told this news agency. The official further added that hosting fixtures while construction is underway was practically unviable due to safety and logistical constraints. To the best of our knowledge, the repair work is happening in the stands area, where they are adding washrooms for the spectators. Currently, the washrooms are only on the ground floor, and there are no washrooms on levels 1, 2, and 3. This was okay when the year was 2006, but now it's a necessary requirement considering the venue is in such high demand for future games across all sports. Moreover, when the contractors are doing that part of the repair work, they need access from the front and sides also. This is continuous work, so one can't really do both construction and stage high-profile games at the same time. In fact, apart from cricket also, as usual, so many people from across the country keep calling for the stadium to be available for this or that sporting event, and the same thing is being told to everyone. We are just hoping that all the repair work goes well so that the DY Patil Stadium can soon start hosting games again, added the official. Confirming the development, another official privy to the venue selection process told IANS, We can tell that the DY Patil Stadium is undergoing renovation; hence it wasn't put forward to be one of the venues for the inaugural Womens Champions Trophy. Quizzed on why top metropolitan cities that have hosted womens cricket games in the last few years werent available for hosting the Womens Champions Trophy, the official said, For the tier-1 centres constantly mentioned by many people, they weren't available due to preparations for another big tournament at that time of year. From an Indian perspective, the Womens Champions Trophy will be held at a time when the domestic and international calendar will be very hectic. India are supposed to host Australia for a five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy series from January 21 to March 3. Quizzed on why top metropolitan cities that have hosted womens cricket games in the last few years werent available for hosting the Womens Champions Trophy, the official said, For the tier-1 centres constantly mentioned by many people, they weren't available due to preparations for another big tournament at that time of year. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories The Womens Champions Trophy, originally scheduled for June 2027 before it was shifted to February 2027 by the ICC Board earlier this year, will feature the top six womens T20I sides as per the July 6, 2026 cut-off date: Australia, England, India, New Zealand, South Africa, and Sri Lanka. Article Source: IANS
Kishan says captaincy has led to 'immense personal growth'
The East Zone captain said leadership leads to a mindset change and
Look At Yourself: Ex-Pakistan Captain Continues Blame Game, Slams PCB Selector After Test Sackings
Former captain Azhar Ali has expressed deep dismay over the ongoing crisis in Pakistan cricket following the team making wholesale changes to its squad on the ongoing Test tour of England, adding that the side has become consistent in the most negative way.
Alan Coleman to step down as Middlesex director of cricket
Longstanding club administrator set to depart after five years in current role
How Losing India Spot Helped Ishan Kishan Become A Better Batter
After producing an epic knock of 270, Ishan Kishan on Monday said he has freed his mind from overthinking and expectations to focus solely on batting after a turbulent phase in his career, and he is pleased with the results
Unchanged Pakistan bat with a chance to seal semi-final spot
Hong Kong, too, are unchanged as they look for their first win of the tournament
How Captaincy Helped Ishan Kishan Mature as Player and Leader
Ishan Kishan discusses how taking on the captaincy for Jharkhand in 2024, following the loss of his BCCI central contract, significantly contributed to his personal and cricketing development. He highlights the increased responsibility, situational awareness, and focus on team goals that leadership instilled in him, exemplified by his recent double century for East Zone in the Duleep Trophy final.
'It Will Be An Honour To Lead India U19': Lakshya Raichandani On Getting Captaincy For Australia U19
Sri Lanka U19: Young Uttarakhand batter Lakshya Raichandani is honoured to be bestowed with the leadership responsibility of the Indian U19 side for the upcoming three unofficial ODIs against Australia U19, which begin on September 18. Raichandani, who is currently playing for Mussoorie Thunder, was named captain of the Indian U19 white-ball side, while he is also the vice-captain for the two unofficial Tests that will be played between September 28 and October 8. Speaking exclusively to IANS, Raichandani reflected on the opportunity and how he prepares for the series, which will take place in Rajkot and Ahmedabad. It is a great opportunity; it's an honour to be a captain for the Indian team, he said. It is an added responsibility, so I am very excited for this opportunity, and I want to lead everyone, create a positive environment and give my 100%. The Raichandani family is also excited to see their son leading the national junior side as the Aussies arrive in India. (My) Family is very excited and happy, but as I said, it is a great opportunity, and it is an added responsibility, so it is very good, and I am looking forward to the captaincy, Raichandani added. The 17-year-old has been rewarded with the captaincy for his stellar performances in the U19 circuit. He scored a double century and a century in two Youth Tests against Sri Lanka U19 and also scored two half centuries against the Lankan U19 side in the two youth ODIs that preceded them. But he is keeping his preparation to what he usually does. Preparation is the same as what I normally do, and it is going on. I don't change much when seeing their brand of cricket. But we will see their style of play through the video footage, and we will make a plan for them, he added. Apart from those stellar knocks for India U19s, he recently also scored an impressive 76 in the Dehradun T20 League. Speaking on the outings, he said that he likes to keep his team above himself. I wanted to play for the team, and I wanted to contribute for the team, and my intent was the same. It was positive. I have a normal mindset whether I go well or not, from a confidence point of view. I have confidence, but I wanted to play for the team and contribute. It was very good. My aim has been for the team. The form gives you confidence, but I will keep the same mindset, he said. I wanted to play for the team, and I wanted to contribute for the team, and my intent was the same. It was positive. I have a normal mindset whether I go well or not, from a confidence point of view. I have confidence, but I wanted to play for the team and contribute. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories It is a very exciting league, and it is a very good tournament for Dehradun's local players. They will get a very good opportunity, and it is a very good tournament to improve their T20 game for UPL. It is a very good platform, as players will get to learn a lot from experienced players, he added. Article Source: IANS
Trott to oversee England Lions squad as possible successor to Flintoff
Former England batter had a successful four-year stint in charge of Afghanistan
Duleep Trophy final | Ishan Kishans double century helps East bury South under a mountain of runs
The southpaws blistering knock takes his team past the 700-run mark; Kushagra joins in the act with a hundred against a hapless bowling attack
Mental Game! Kishan Reveals Secret Behind His Stunning Revival
Ishan Kishan, after scoring an epic 270 in the Duleep Trophy final, revealed that freeing his mind from overthinking and expectations has been crucial to his recent success. He emphasised focusing solely on scoring runs and winning matches, a change that came after a turbulent phase in his career, including losing his BCCI central contract. Kishan highlighted the importance of domestic cricket for reflection and growth, enabling him to return stronger.
Kerala Cricket League | Thrissur Titans brave youth policy pays off
David Miller, Qunton De Kock Named In Full-Strength South Africa Squad for Australia ODIs
South Africa have named their squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Australia, which kicks off their home season
Captaincy has helped me become a better batter:Kishan
Captaincy has helped me become a better batter:Kishan
Nottinghamshire Sign Hay As Verreynnes Replacement For Final Three County Games
Nottinghamshire Head Coach Peter Moores: New Zealand wicketkeeper-batter Mitchell Hay has signed a short-term deal with Nottinghamshire for the remaining three matches of the 2026 County Championship season, the club announced on Monday. Hay, 26, will replace South Africa wicketkeeper-batter Kyle Verreynne, who has been recalled early by Cricket South Africa (CSA) in accordance with his central contract terms. Hay made his Test debut in December 2025 and scored 61 against the West Indies. He brings a solid first-class cricket record of over 2,000 runs at an average of 45.14 across 23 appearances for the national side and his domestic team Canterbury. Hay has so far played a Test, 10 ODIs and 12 T20Is and will link up with Nottinghamshire ahead of their clashes against Hampshire, Sussex and Yorkshire. Im really proud to sign for Nottinghamshire, and I cant wait to get over to England and experience both the County Championship and Trent Bridge. Its a really high-quality competition, and I know how historic Trent Bridge is too, so the idea of being able to call it home, and at the business end of the season too, is thrilling, said Hay in an official statement. The Christchurch-born cricketer expressed excitement at following in the footsteps of several Kiwi legends who previously represented the county side. There have been so many quality New Zealanders who have played for Nottinghamshire; the likes of Sir Richard Hadlee, Stephen Fleming, Chris Cairns, Andre Adams. Im so excited to become the latest in that line and with the defence of the Championship title still very much going, I cant wait to meet the boys and contribute to that. The Christchurch-born cricketer expressed excitement at following in the footsteps of several Kiwi legends who previously represented the county side. There have been so many quality New Zealanders who have played for Nottinghamshire; the likes of Sir Richard Hadlee, Stephen Fleming, Chris Cairns, Andre Adams. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories He is a mature keeper with the ability to bat in the top six, which fits the role we need coming into the business end of the season. He comes across as someone who knows his game and is calm and confident about how he goes about his cricket. Like always, were looking forward to getting him involved and settled into the squad. Article Source: IANS
Cricket South Africa name squad for upcoming three-game ODI series against Australia
The stage is set for a multi-format series between South Africa and Australia. The two sides are set to take on each other across three ODI matches and will follow it up with three Tests. It is interesting to note that the two teams will take on each other in the first ODI on September 24.
Duleep Trophy: Ishan Kishans Epic 270, Kumar Kushagras 101 Propels East Zone To 708
MA Chidambaram Stadium: Skipper Ishan Kishan smashed a monumental 270 while Kumar Kushagra hit a fine century to put East Zone in complete command of the Duleep Trophy final against South Zone by posting a colossal 708 at the end of the second innings of the match, played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Monday. Kishans 334-ball knock, laced with 30 fours and seven sixes, registered the eighth-highest individual score in a Duleep Trophy match. Kushagra, on the other hand, hit 101 off 132 balls, studded with eight fours and five sixes, ensuring that a total in excess of 700 was registered at Chepauk for only the third time in first-class cricket history before East Zone were finally bowled out by stumps. Resuming from their overnight score of 385/4, East Zone continued to pile on the runs right from the outset. Desperately seeking wickets, South Zone took the new ball after delaying it for just one over, but neither Mohammad Siraj nor MD Nidheesh could find an early breakthrough. Kishan got going immediately, collecting successive boundaries off Siraj before giving the same treatment to Nidheesh. Kushagra soon joined the party from the other end as, on either side of the drinks break, South Zone introduced spinners Tripurana Vijay and Shreyas Gopal into the attack, but it didnt change the trajectory of East Zones innings. Kushagra moved into the nineties with a couple of boundaries off Gopal before eventually bringing up his sixth first-class century. South Zone finally got the much-needed breakthrough closer to the lunch break when Kushagra found the fielder at fine leg off Vijay. For Kishan, however, it remained business as usual as he continued to manipulate the field with ease. Taking full toll of a tiring opposition, the aggressive left-hander slammed three boundaries in a single over from Gopal. South Zone attempted to break his momentum by deploying part-timers Devdutt Padikkal and Shaikh Rasheed, but to no avail as Kishan reached his double century off 270 balls. After crossing the milestone, Kishan accelerated rapidly and hit boundaries with immaculate ease to move past 250, with South Zone eagerly anticipating a declaration. Even after guiding his side past the 600-run mark, the captain showed no intention of declaring. Although fatigue briefly caught up with Kishan and forced him to retire temporarily, the runs kept flowing for East Zone. With the total edging closer to 700, Mohammed Shami departed for a quickfire 28, which brought Kishan back to the crease in pursuit of a rare triple century. However, wickets falling at the other end forced his hand, and he was eventually caught near the long-on boundary, falling just 30 runs short of the 300-mark. By the time the East Zone innings ended at 708, they had firmly taken charge of winning the summit clash against a tiring South Zone. Although fatigue briefly caught up with Kishan and forced him to retire temporarily, the runs kept flowing for East Zone. With the total edging closer to 700, Mohammed Shami departed for a quickfire 28, which brought Kishan back to the crease in pursuit of a rare triple century. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories East Zone 708 in 163 overs (Ishan Kishan 270, Kumar Kushagra 101; Tripurana Vijay 4-180, Chama Milind 2-88) against South Zone Article Source: IANS
Bavuma to Lead SA in Australia ODI Series
Temba Bavuma will lead South Africa against Australia, with Gerald Coetzee recalled, Kagiso Rabada injured, and Dewald Brevis omitted as the Proteas strengthen World Cup preparations.
Duleep Trophy Final: Ishan Kishan's 270 Hailed As One Of The Greatest Ever As East Zone Score 708
Ishan Kishan battled humid conditions to construct a monumental 270, reminding the selectors of his red-ball credentials and propelling East Zone to a mammoth 708 on the second day of the Duleep Trophy final against South Zone
East Zone ride on Kishan's 270 to post 708
With three days remaining, South Zone have no option but to simply bat first and bat big, and hope the surface doesn't come to life late in the game
Baby AB Joins Duminy in South Africa's Six-Hitting Top Four
Dewald AB Baby Brevis equalled JP Duminy's 71 sixes in just 35 T20Is, starred with 226 series runs, won Player of the Series, and helped South Africa clinch the title.
Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen has been named a specialist mentor to help England's men white-ball team succeed at next years' World Cup in southern Africa
Kevin Pietersen appointed specialist mentor of England white-ball teams
Former captain Kevin Pietersen was on Monday appointed as a specialist mentor of England's white-ball teams in the build-up to next year's ICC Cricket World Cup in Africa. Pietersen will join head coach Brendon McCullum's white-ball set up for the T20I and ODI series against Sri Lanka later this month, joining a coaching team which will also include Marcus Trescothick, Tim Southee, Jeetan Patel and Sarah Taylor. He will also be involved in this winter's white-ball tours of Australia and South Africa, before joining up again for the home series against Pakistan and New Zealand next summer, as well as the World Cup. I am immensely proud to have been asked to help this team on their journey to win a World Cup in South Africa. Putting on the England uniform again for the first time since 2014 is a profound honour and a deeply special moment, Pietersen said in a England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) statement. We have an incredibly talented white-ball squad, and I am excited to get
Pakistan Captain Fatima Sana Fined 10% Match Fee For Shafali Send Off In Asia Cup
Pakistan captain Fatima Sana has been fined 10 per cent of her match fee for making disparaging gestures after dismissing India opener Shafali Verma during their Women's Asia Cup match, the ICC said on Monday. The incident occurred in the second
Santner warns NZ of Kohli, Rohit threat for home ODIs
New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner is preparing for a tough challenge against India's Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in the upcoming five-match ODI series. Santner hopes the Indian stalwarts don't dominate on New Zealand pitches as they have in the past. He also discussed the importance of the series for World Cup preparations and the challenges of the two-Test series for a new-look Indian side.
Pietersen appointed specialist mentor of England white-ball teams
Kevin Pietersen will join head coach Brendon McCullum's white-ball set-up for the T20I and ODI series against Sri Lanka
Is the Match-Fixing Ghost Back? PCB Enquiry Sparks Fresh Questions
The Pakistan Cricket Board has opened an internal disciplinary enquiry into allegations of misconduct by players following reports of disciplinary issues An internal investigation has been opened by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) after reports of disciplinary issues The Pakistan Cricket
Padikkal Aims To Cement Test Spot After Sri Lanka Success
Karnataka batter Devdutt Padikkal discusses his approach to cementing a place in the Indian Test XI, acknowledging limited opportunities despite his recent back-to-back hundreds in Sri Lanka. He emphasises the importance of consistent performance and his readiness to seize opportunities, drawing insights from conversations with Rahul Dravid.
The Womens Asia Cup 2026 has seen the Indian team put in some brilliant performances. The Women in Blue are unbeaten in the tournament, having registered wins against Thailand, Hong Kong, and arch-rivals Pakistan as...
Miller, De Kock Named In Full-strength South Africa Squad For Australia ODIs
ODI World Cup: South Africa have named their squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Australia that kicks off their home season. Regular captain Temba Bavuma is back, while senior batters David Miller and Quinton de Kock are also part of the ODI series, which starts on September 24 in Durban, as it seems they are pretty much in the scheme of things for the ODI World Cup 2027. The Proteas have named a 16-member squad, which was as close to their available full strength as possible. Both Miller and de Kock are not currently centrally contracted but played in the T20 World Cup earlier this year. The squad sees the return of Gerald Coetzee, who last played an ODI in the 2023 World Cup, as he fills in the void left by Kagiso Rabada, who is out of the ODIs and racing to be fit for the Tests due to his hamstring injury. Coetzee has been hampered by injuries in the last few years, but his return gives a shot in the arm to the Proteas side. It's great to see Gerald back in the fold and, by all accounts, he's been bowling nice and quickly, South Africa's head coach Shukri Conrad said in a statement. The Proteas are keeping an eye on Rabada's recovery, while Conrad added that Anrich Nortje was not considered for the series. KG is out of the ODIs, and we are constantly monitoring his rehabilitation. When we sit down to select a Test squad, we will make an informed decision. He is tracking nicely, going on reports from physios, Conrad said during a press conference on Monday. Anrich Nortje was not considered for the ODIs. I don't think he has done enough for now, but don't be surprised if he played the Bangladesh series, he added on Nortje. Meanwhile, swashbuckling batter Dewald Brevis is not part of the squad as he will be preparing for the Test season, with him featuring in first-class cricket. Aiden Markram will be available for the second and third ODIs. Everybody who is not here or in the A side will be playing the first round of first-class cricket, Conrad said. And everyone not in the ODI squad will play in the second round. That includes Dewald. He competes for a spot in the middle-order, and there he competes with Matthew Breetzke, Tristan Stubbs and David Miller. He will definitely get a crack at ODIs in the Bangladesh series. We've got six ODIs before we play England. The England squad will be a shadow squad for the World Cup. We've got a few guys vying for space at the top in terms of Aiden, Ricks, Quinny and Tony. It's just about making sure everyone gets a fair crack at it. Conrad stated that the series is crucial for their plans for the ODI World Cup 2027. With the World Cup just over a year away, this series marks an important step in shaping the squad as we build towards the tournament, while also giving those players who are in the frame opportunities when we face Bangladesh and England later in the season, Conrad said. We have a clear idea of the combinations we want and the roles we need players to fulfil. From a batting perspective, we've looked at making sure we have a middle order that can be explosive but have the ability to absorb pressure and take the innings quite deep. That balance is going to be important for us. Conrad stated that the series is crucial for their plans for the ODI World Cup 2027. With the World Cup just over a year away, this series marks an important step in shaping the squad as we build towards the tournament, while also giving those players who are in the frame opportunities when we face Bangladesh and England later in the season, Conrad said. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Temba Bavuma (capt), Ottneil Baartman, Corbin Bosch, Matthew Breetzke, Gerald Coetzee, Quinton de Kock, Tony de Zorzi, Bjorn Fortuin, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kwena Maphaka, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs Article Source: IANS
Issues in Pak dressing room? PCB launches internal inquiry
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has launched an internal disciplinary inquiry following media reports of 'discipline and conduct' issues during the ongoing tour of England, which saw seven players recalled after successive Test losses.
Fatima Sana penalised for send-off to Shafali Verma
Pakistan captain was fined 10% of her match fee and handed a demerit point
Pietersen Returns To England Set-Up As White-Ball Mentor
Former England captain Kevin Pietersen has been appointed as a Specialist Mentor for the England men's white-ball teams, aiming to bolster their preparations for the upcoming ICC Men's Cricket World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia.
Pakistan captain Fatima Sana has been fined 10 per cent of her match fee for breaching Level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct during a Group A match of the Women's Asia Cup against India
Fatima Sana fined 10 per cent match fee for Code of Conduct breach in clash against India
DUBAI: Pakistan captain Fatima Sana has been fined 10 per cent of her match fee and handed a demerit point for breaching Level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct during her sides Womens Asia Cup Group A clash against India, which they lost by seven wickets at the Dubai International Stadium on Saturday. In []
Kevin Pietersen named specialist mentor for England's white-ball team ahead of ODI World Cup 2027
In a major development, former England cricketer Kevin Pietersen has been named the specialist mentor for Englands white-ball side ahead of the upcoming edition of the ODI World Cup 2027. It is worth noting that...
Pakistan captain Fatima Sana fined for fiery Shafali send-off
Pakistan captain Fatima Sana has been fined 10 per cent of her match fee and received one demerit point for breaching the ICC Code of Conduct during the Women's Asia Cup match against India, after gesturing towards opener Shafali Verma upon her dismissal.
Breetzke, Bosch Replace Injured Pretorius, Simelane In SA Squad For Namibia ODIs
Cricket South Africa: Right-handed batter Matthew Breetzke and seam-bowling all-rounder Corbin Bosch have been drafted into the South Africa squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Namibia after Lhuan-dr Pretorius and Andile Simelane were ruled out due to injuries, Cricket South Africa (CSA) said on Monday. Pretorius, who finished as the leading run-scorer in the recent T20I tri-series win at the Namibia Cricket Ground, sustained a right adductor muscle injury, while pace-bowling all-rounder Simelane suffered a left abdominal muscle strain. The injuries led to the duo being ruled out from the title clash held on Sunday, which South Africa won by 48 runs. Lhuan-dre Pretorius (right adductor muscle injury) and Andile Simelane (left abdominal muscle strain) have been ruled out of the three-match ODI series against Namibia, starting on Wednesday. Corbin Bosch and Matthew Breetzke have been called up as replacements, CSA said in its official statement. The twin injury blows forced South Africa to adjust their combination ahead of the T20I tri-series final against Zimbabwe. In the absence of Pretorius, Connor Esterhuizen retained his spot at the top of the batting order alongside Jordan Hermann, while left-hander Tony de Zorzi was drafted into the middle order to bolster the batting lineup. Meanwhile, middle-order batter Jason Smith, who missed the earlier matches due to an adductor strain, has fully recovered and joined the squad in Namibia. Although held back from the tri-series decider, Smith remains available for selection for the three-match ODI series starting on Wednesday. The twin injury blows forced South Africa to adjust their combination ahead of the T20I tri-series final against Zimbabwe. In the absence of Pretorius, Connor Esterhuizen retained his spot at the top of the batting order alongside Jordan Hermann, while left-hander Tony de Zorzi was drafted into the middle order to bolster the batting lineup. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories The addition of Bosch and Breetzke, who are capped for the Proteas in all three formats and are coming off playing franchise T20 cricket games in the USA and the West Indies, will help them experiment with combinations ahead of the 2027 Mens ODI World Cup, which they are co-hosting with Zimbabwe and Namibia. Article Source: IANS
Miller, de Kock, Coetzee in South Africa squad for Australia ODIs
Gerald Coetzee is back for ODIs after last playing the format in the 2023 World Cup
Sowter heads for Surrey following Hundred success
Spinner is released from Durham contract early in order to join family in South East
Kevin Pietersen makes shock England return as specialist white-ball mentor
Former England batter ends decade-long split with ECB as he joins McCullum's set-up ahead of ODI World Cup
PCB to investigate conduct and discipline of Pakistan players in England
At this stage, there is no information about who the investigation is specifically targeted against, or any timeline for its completion
PCB Launches Disciplinary Inquiry Following Turmoil On Ongoing Test Tour In England
The Pakistan Cricket Board: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced on Monday that it has launched an internal disciplinary inquiry to examine reports of player misconduct and behavioural issues after the team's poor performances in the first two Test matches against England. The development follows the board's decisive response after heavy losses in the first two Tests at Headingley and Lords, which led to sending seven players, including wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan, opening batter Imam-ul-Haq, and T20 captain Salman Ali Agha, home midway through the tour. Amir Mir, PCB's Director of Media and Digital Communications, confirmed that an internal review has been launched in response to the increasing local media reports about dressing room unrest. The Pakistan Cricket Board has initiated an internal disciplinary inquiry following media reports concerning discipline and conduct, which are currently being reviewed internally. The PCB handles such matters in accordance with its standard procedures. The process is being conducted under PCB regulations, ensuring that all concerned individuals are given due consideration, Mir stated on his X account on Monday. Head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul were also sent back home, with their duties taken up by Mike Hesson and Ashley Noffke. At this stage, any speculative reports or unverified claims circulating on certain platforms, particularly those originating from hostile external sources, should not be regarded as credible. The PCB will not comment further at this time. The Board advises stakeholders and the public to rely on official PCB communications, added Mir. The Pakistan Cricket Board has initiated an internal disciplinary inquiry following media reports concerning discipline and conduct, which are currently being reviewed internally. The PCB handles such matters in accordance with its standard procedures. The process is being conducted under PCB regulations, ensuring that all concerned individuals are given due consideration, Mir stated on his X account on Monday. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Focus now shifts to the third and final Test in Birmingham, starting on September 9, where a heavily restructured Babar Azam-led side will aim to avoid a series whitewash amidst off-field turbulence. Article Source: IANS
I Will Have My Place As Long As I Am Scoring Runs And Contributing To Wins, Says Padikkal
New Delhi: India top-order batter Devdutt Padikkal believes putting in consistent performance is the only way for him to hold onto a spot in the national Test side, adding that as long as he scores runs and helps win the team matches, his place in the line-up will remain secure. Padikkal enjoyed a fruitful tour of Sri Lanka by scoring back-to-back centuries in Indias 1-0 series win in Sri Lanka and even took the Player of the Series award. With his compact technique and penchant to make runs quickly, Padikkal impressed at number three in B Sai Sudharsans absence. Definitely, I was looking forward to it. Obviously, those opportunities don't come very easily. It takes a lot of hard work to make sure that you are continuing to improve yourself and waiting for that opportunity. I had to make sure that I was ready whenever I got it. The fact that I was told at the start of the series that I was going to be playing was really exciting, and I felt like, personally, I was at the best stage of my career in terms of the way I was batting, so I was really looking forward to it, Padikkal told JioStar. Addressing the scrutiny that comes with batting in the crucial number three slot, a slot made famous by batting stalwarts Rahul Dravid and Cheteshwar Pujara, Padikkal said he prefers to remain unbothered by comparisons with legends who preceded him. At the end of the day, it's about going out there and batting. It doesn't matter what position I'm batting at, I'm trying to contribute to the side. Yes, obviously, there have been great players who have played at number three for India over the years, and I'm sure there'll be a lot more scrutiny on me and a lot more comparisons made. But at the end of the day, I'm going out there and just playing my cricket, and as long as I'm enjoying that, I think everything will fall into place, he said. Left-handed Padikkal also credited Dravid, the former India head coach, for shaping his approach towards long-format batting through various conversations over the years. Obviously, I've had a lot of conversations with him over the years in terms of batting and what it takes to really spend long hours out there. Again, it comes back to preparation and understanding what you want to do. As long as you have that clarity in your head about what your plans are and what you want to go out there and do, regardless of the position you're batting at, it helps a lot. I think those are the conversations I've had with him. With India facing a busy home Test calendar via trip to New Zealand and hosting Australia for a five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy series early next year, Padikkal signed off by saying that consistent run-scoring remains the only metric to maintain a spot in the national side. Again, it comes back to preparation and understanding what you want to do. As long as you have that clarity in your head about what your plans are and what you want to go out there and do, regardless of the position you're batting at, it helps a lot. I think those are the conversations I've had with him. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Nothing is taken for granted. For me, personally, I just want to keep scoring runs and keep contributing to wins for the Indian Test side. As long as I'm doing that, I'm sure I'll have my place. Article Source: IANS
Ishan Kishan Scores Double Century in Duleep Trophy Final, Makes History for East Zone
Ishan Kishan put on a thrilling batting show in the Duleep Trophy 2026 final, hitting a brilliant double century for East Zone against South Zone at Chennai's MA Chidambaram Stadium. Leading East Zone from the front, Kishan played a dominant innings
Ishan Kishan Becomes Third East Zone Player To Smash Double Hundred In Duleep Trophy
MA Chidambaram Stadium: East Zone captain Ishan Kishan achieved a significant milestone as he smashed a jaw-dropping double century in the final of the Duleep Trophy against South Zone at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Kishan became just the third East Zone player to score a double hundred in the Duleep Trophy, joining the likes of Arun Lal and Saba Karim in the epic list. He has also become the first East batter to hit a double ton in the final of the red-ball tournament. Before Ishan, Arun Lal had scored twin double centuries for East in the Duleep Trophy, as he had made 287 and 214. Saba Karim also had a double century to his name for East, having scored an unbeaten 200 in 1995. Ishan scored 26 fours and two sixes in his epic knock and got there in only 270 balls. The Southpaw got to the milestone with a four off Devdutt Padikkal on Day 2 of the fixture. He drilled Padikkal through to covers for a four to bring up his double ton. He continued his carnage and smashed 250 runs to pile more runs for his side. However, the skipper struggled with fatigue and retired hurt after getting to his 25 and walked off the field. Ishan scored 26 fours and two sixes in his epic knock and got there in only 270 balls. The Southpaw got to the milestone with a four off Devdutt Padikkal on Day 2 of the fixture. He drilled Padikkal through to covers for a four to bring up his double ton. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories The East Zone skipper celebrated his milestone with arms aloft as East piled on the mountain of runs on South. As Ishan retired hurt, East had already scored 611/5. He also partnered with Kumar Kushagra for a 230-run stand for the fifth wicket. The South Zone bowlers continued to toil in Chennai as they were forced to stay on the field for nearly one and a half days with Kishan's heroics. Article Source: IANS
Pakistan Have Become Totally Consistent In The Most Negative Way: Azhar Ali
High Performance Director: Former captain Azhar Ali has expressed deep dismay over the ongoing crisis in Pakistan cricket following the team making wholesale changes to its squad on the ongoing Test tour of England, adding that the side has become consistent in the most negative way. Azhar's scathing assessment comes in the wake of severe fallout after heavy defeats at Headingley and Lord's, which saw head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul being relieved of their duties and seven players sent home. The turmoil has drawn widespread criticism, with Shahid Afridi calling it the most shocking decision ever and Misbah-ul-Haq resigning as a selector in protest. People used to say you could expect anything from Pakistan that any team could turn up on any given day and either be 46 all out or win from nowhere. But we dont even do that inconsistency any more. Weve become totally consistent in the most negative way. Cricket in Pakistan needs proper care and a vision that gives hope to a nation on the brink of losing their appetite. If we dont pull our socks up, we wont be able to bring people back. You cannot lose hope but the signs are not good, Azhar was quoted as saying by The Guardian on Monday. Azhar, who played 97 Tests, specifically called out High Performance Director and senior selector Aaqib Javed for trying to distance himself from the squad's poor performances. We have had bad decisions like these for three years now. He should take responsibility for performances. His judgment should be questioned. I listened to his interview this week and he was trying to put the blame on Sarfaraz and Babar. He appointed them just a few months earlier! That was enough for me to judge someone. Every decision he makes backfires and he then says: Its not me. Look at yourself first. And if you cannot control this team, if you cannot make a difference to Pakistan cricket, then step away. Azhar also sympathised with captain Azam, who has struggled for making runs in recent years and leading the side with an unstable team management. It is probably the worst time to captain Pakistan right now,. He has to consider his options too, I believe. Every player goes through periods of low scores but as a nation we just kept expecting him to deliver and criticism followed. It has played on his mind and he has doubted himself, while lacking any internal support. I dont think he is as mentally strong as Misbah or, say, Younis Khan. Misbah was not as talented as Babar but he was far tougher. Younis faced criticism but never lost his targets. Everyone is different though. We have to realise that and create an environment where he can flourish, not be pulled back. Azhar, who worked as Pakistans head of youth development before stepping down last year, concluded by saying that any turnaround of the side would require patience and structured administrative backing. It has played on his mind and he has doubted himself, while lacking any internal support. I dont think he is as mentally strong as Misbah or, say, Younis Khan. Misbah was not as talented as Babar but he was far tougher. Younis faced criticism but never lost his targets. Everyone is different though. We have to realise that and create an environment where he can flourish, not be pulled back. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories But major work done by competent people in the pathway that is how we come back. Its not about quick fixes. We cannot change in the space of a year. Thats impossible. But four to five? I believe the talent is there to make it happen. Article Source: IANS
Why Have Sreesanth, Sanju Fallen Out?
S Sreesanth and Sanju Samson ignore each other at the Kerala Cricket League 2026 awards ceremony.
Ishan Kishan smashes double century as East Zone continues to dominate in Duleep Trophy final
The Duleep Trophy 2026 final saw East Zone taking on South Zone. The two sides met at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, and the game began with East Zone coming in to bat first after winning the toss. The side got off to a good start as Abhimanyu Easwaran and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi scored 72 and 44 runs, respectively.
Ishan Kishan Scripts History, Joins Elite List Of Batters With 200 In Duleep Trophy Final
Ishan Kishan became only the fifth batter in history to slam a double hundred in the Duleep Trophy final.
Hayley Matthews Returns To Melbourne Renegades For WBBL 12
Big Bash League: West Indies skipper Hayley Matthews has re-signed with the Melbourne Renegades on a one-year deal for the upcoming Women's Big Bash League (WBBL) season, the club announced on Monday. The top-ranked womens T20I all-rounder was a key architect of the Renegades' title triumph in WBBL season 10, but shoulder surgery forced her to miss the side's title defence last season. Hayley, 28, delivered a career-best campaign during the Renegades' championship-winning run, scoring 324 runs at a strike rate of 130.6 and taking 14 wickets, earning selection in the WBBL season ten Team of the Tournament. She ended that season with a standout performance in the final against Brisbane Heat at the MCG, scoring 69 runs and claiming 2 wickets for 24 runs. Hayley, who made a successful comeback to international cricket by guiding the West Indies to the T20 World Cup semi-finals in England, shared her excitement about rejoining the Melbourne franchise. Winning the championship with the Renegades was such a special experience and I'm really looking forward to being part of the group again. It was frustrating to miss last season, but I'm back to full fitness now and excited to get back to Melbourne and have another go at winning the title, she said in a statement. The off-spin all-rounder, who bats right-handed, becomes the Renegades' first confirmed overseas signing for the season under newly appointed head coach Gavan Twining, who replaced Simon Helmot. Winning the championship with the Renegades was such a special experience and I'm really looking forward to being part of the group again. It was frustrating to miss last season, but I'm back to full fitness now and excited to get back to Melbourne and have another go at winning the title, she said in a statement. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Hayley joins a strong local core that includes Australian stars Sophie Molineux, captain, and leg-spin all-rounder Georgia Wareham, alongside Nicole Faltum, Tess Flintoff, Milly Illingworth, and Courtney Webb. Her signing follows changes to the league's recruitment framework, which saw the overseas player draft scrapped in favour of direct player-to-club signings. Article Source: IANS
Australia retains under-fire Labuschagne for South Africa Test series
The rivalry returns to South Africa for the first time since the 2018 ball-tampering scandal; Connolly, Neser and Kuhnemann added to squad
From 9,000 First-Class Runs to a 22-Year Court Battle: Jacob Martins Untold Story
Jacob Martin's Untold Story: For most cricketers, the longest innings of their lives are played on a cricket field. For Jacob Martin , it was played in a courtroom. The former India batsman has finally walked out of a legal battle that followed him for 22 years. A Patiala House Court in Delhi has acquitted Martin of all charges in a long-running case involving allegations of forgery, cheating, criminal conspiracy and passport-related offences arising from a controversial cricket tour to the United Kingdom. The verdict brings an extraordinary chapter of his life to an end. Martin's journey took him from the promise of a successful cricket career to arrest and imprisonment, cost him his Railway job and, according to him, prevented him from finding employment with the BCCI. Along the way came public controversy, professional isolation, a near-fatal road accident and years of living under allegations that he consistently denied. Now, at 54, Martin has finally received what he had been waiting for: an acquittal. Long before his name appeared in police records and court proceedings, Jacob Joseph Martin was known for one thing: runs. Born in Baroda, Martin was a right-handed middle-order batsman with an ideal temperament for the longer game. He developed into one of India's most accomplished domestic cricketers, building a reputation for reliability, concentration and consistency. His breakthrough came during the 1998-99 Ranji Trophy season, when he scored more than 1,000 runs. At the time, he became only the sixth batsman in the history of the competition to cross that landmark in a single season. The extraordinary performance brought him national recognition and eventually earned him an India call-up. Martin's overall first-class record underlines just how good a domestic cricketer he was. He played 138 first-class matches, scored more than 9,000 runs, hit 23 centuries and averaged above 46. He also captained Baroda to its fifth and, so far, last Ranji Trophy title in 2000-01, one of the most significant achievements in the team's cricket history. Years later, he returned to Baroda cricket as a coach. His India career, however, was far shorter than his domestic career. Martin made his ODI debut against the West Indies in Toronto in 1999 and played 10 ODIs for India between 1999 and 2001, scoring 158 runs. He never managed to establish himself permanently in the national side, but his reputation as a formidable domestic batsman was already secure. Then came the chapter that changed everything. Perhaps the most important number in Jacob Martin's life today is not 10, his India caps or 9,000-plus, his first-class runs. It is 22. The UK tour changed everything. According to Martin's account after his acquittal, a team he was associated with travelled to the United Kingdom in 2004. Everyone returned to India except one player, who overstayed his visa. That player later obtained a fake immigration stamp and was deported from Britain before being detained after his return to India. Martin has maintained that his name did not appear in the original FIR and that he was implicated later during the investigation. He has also suggested that his profile as a former international cricketer may have contributed to the attention directed towards him. The police version was very different. Investigators alleged that Martin and an associate had helped arrange the youngster's trip to Britain under the pretext of playing cricket and that money had changed hands. Police also alleged that a bogus cricket club, Ajwa Sports Club, was used in connection with the arrangement. Martin was accused of involvement in what police described as a human-trafficking or illegal-immigration racket. He was arrested in Delhi and spent time in Tihar Jail. Yet the case dragged on for years. By 2016, when the Baroda Cricket Association appointed him as its Ranji Trophy coach, the legal proceedings were still unresolved. The appointment itself became controversial, with the questioning how someone facing such serious allegations could be appointed to coach the team. The courtroom battle was not the only crisis Martin had to endure. In December 2018, he suffered grievous injuries in a road accident in Vadodara, including serious damage to his lung and liver. His condition was critical. He was placed on a ventilator and spent nearly a month in intensive care. Former teammates, administrators and others associated with Indian cricket came forward with financial assistance for his treatment. The most painful part of Martin's story may not be the arrest or even the time spent in custody. The prolonged legal battle cost him his Railway job and prevented him from finding employment with the BCCI. He has described the years as immensely stressful and said the latest judgment represents a major turning point in his life. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories An acquittal can clear a legal cloud. It cannot return lost years. Twenty-two years after the case began, he finally has closure. For once, the final scorecard is in his favour.
Mark Coles Appointed Head Coach Of Zimbabwe Womens Cricket Team
Cricket Papua New Guinea: Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) on Monday announced that it has appointed Mark Coles as the new head coach of the womens national team following a rigorous recruitment process. He will take charge from Zimbabwes upcoming home T20I series against South Africa, starting on Friday at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo. Coles, who brings extensive high-performance credentials, has previously served as the head coach of both the Pakistan and Scotland womens national teams. He has also worked as a high-performance manager at Cricket Papua New Guinea, supported Scotland's men's side, and held coaching consultancy roles in Australia. Womens cricket is entering an exciting new chapter in Zimbabwe following our admission into the ICC Womens Championship and it is vital that we have the right people in place to guide that journey. Mark Coles brings extensive international coaching and high-performance experience, as well as a strong understanding of the demands of the womens game, said ZC Chairman Tavengwa Mukuhlani in a statement. The appointment comes at a crucial juncture for Zimbabwe women's cricket, following their historic debut in the ICC Women's Championship earlier this year under an interim coaching setup. Having already played away tours in New Zealand and Pakistan as part of the Championship cycle, which determines qualification for the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2029, Zimbabwe are scheduled to tour India in October and then go to Bangladesh as well, while hosting South Africa, West Indies, Sri Lanka, and Ireland. Coles' support staff includes Rangarirai Manyande as assistant coach (batting), Trevor Phiri as fielding coach, Faith Dube as strength and conditioning coach, Farai Mabasa as physiotherapist, Keith Kulinga as analyst, and Mary-Anne Musonda as team manager. ZC also retained Travor Garwe as head coach of the Zimbabwe Under-19 Womens team, assisted by Nonhlanhla Kamuteku (batting), Malcolm Chikuwa (bowling), and Susan Kudzibatira (manager). Coles' support staff includes Rangarirai Manyande as assistant coach (batting), Trevor Phiri as fielding coach, Faith Dube as strength and conditioning coach, Farai Mabasa as physiotherapist, Keith Kulinga as analyst, and Mary-Anne Musonda as team manager. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories The ZC board also confirmed the women's selection panel, retaining Julia Chibhabha as convener alongside Emily Jinjika and Thandowenkosi Mlilo, with Ishmael Senzere joining as a new member. Article Source: IANS
'Confident He Can Contribute': Bailey Defends Labuschagne Retaining Test Spot For SA Tour
George Bailey: Australia chair selector George Bailey has backed a struggling Marnus Labuschagne to make a positive contribution in the upcoming Test series against South Africa, despite having a lean time in the drawn 1-1 series against Bangladesh. Labuschagne hasnt scored a century in Tests for nearly three years and was recently axed from the ODI team. But the Bailey-led selection panel has opted to stick with the right-hander for the Tests against South Africa starting in Durban on October 9. We not shying away from the fact that we'd like some more runs from 'Marn'. That's clear, but we're also confident that that he can still make a positive contribution to that squad. I think Marn will continue to prepare and refine how he will prepare for this series. There's potentially a simplification or an ability to focus purely on red-ball cricket for him in the fact that he won't be in the one-day series leading up to it. So that may be a benefit. I'm not sure around that. He'll prepare incredibly well, and specifically for this tour. In that squad of 16, I'm confident that he can still make a positive contribution, Bailey told reporters on Monday. The selectors have also included young batting all-rounder Cooper Connolly in the 16-member touring party. Connolly, who scored a Test century against Bangladesh in June as an opener, has been rewarded for his multi-format growth despite playing a few first-class games. (Connolly has been) primarily picked in this squad as a batsman, but that secondary skillset (bowling) may come into consideration depending on what sort of conditions we do face in South Africa. I think he's got a game that's well suited to the middle order but no doubt, as he matures and continues to grow his game, I think there's a capacity there where he could bat further up the order. He's a good player, and one I think that's going to continue to develop across formats. Every time that we've had him on tour, he's a good learner. He's keen to expand his game. Addressing the top-order structure, Bailey noted that Connolly could feature in the top three if needed. I think he will be able to. Whether that's now, whether that's in the future. He's still so young in his career, but I think his ability to bat in a range of positions will continue to grow as he gets more and more experience. Meanwhile, Matt Renshaw retains his spot alongside Travis Head at the top of the order. While debates persist over shifting Head back to number five and moving Steve Smith up to three, Bailey stated all options remain open, including Josh Inglis having a look-in. Addressing the top-order structure, Bailey noted that Connolly could feature in the top three if needed. I think he will be able to. Whether that's now, whether that's in the future. He's still so young in his career, but I think his ability to bat in a range of positions will continue to grow as he gets more and more experience. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories 'Ingo' probably gets lost a little bit, given the fact he's been in so many squads, but not necessarily had the opportunities. But he is one I think who potentially can and again has shown this probably more in white-ball cricket but has the ability to bat in a range of positions. Article Source: IANS
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Momentum is very important: Harmanpreet urges India to trust plans in Asia Cup knockout stage
New Delhi, Sep 7 (IANS) India captain Harmanpreet Kaur has called for her side to maintain its momentum as the team enters the knockout stage of the tournament, saying the next two matches will be crucial and urging the players to stick to the plans that have served them well during the league stage. The next two games are very important for us. One game at a time; the next game is very important. Hopefully we will continue the way we have been performing well in this tournament. I think that momentum is very important now. Trusting ourselves, trusting our plans and just going the way we have been batting and bowling during the league stage, Harmanpreet said in a video shared by the BCCI on Monday. Indias campaign has featured contributions across departments, with Harmanpreet highlighting the performances that have helped the side build confidence heading into the decisive phase. She pointed specifically to Shafali Vermas aggressive display in the opening game and Smriti Mandhanas century in the second, before turning her attention to the bowling units response in the latest match. In the first game, Shafalis battingthe way she was hitting the ball, and in the second game, Smritis hundred, the way she was batting was outstanding to watch. Today, our bowlers took the challenge. They just need to trust their plans and trust themselves and execute whenever the team needs it. Good overall performance for everyone. And now the semis are there, the finals are there. I think we just need to keep doing the hard work again and again, she added. The captains emphasis on consistency comes with India now facing the pressure of the knockout rounds. Rather than looking too far ahead, Harmanpreet stressed the importance of treating each match separately while preserving the confidence generated during the league phase. For Harmanpreet, the journey to this stage has also exceeded her own expectations. Reflecting on her career and the support behind it, she credited her teammates, the BCCI, the support staff and her family for helping her reach this point. I never thought I would come that far. I would like to give credit to my teammates, BCCI, sports staff, my family members, my parents. They have been my biggest strength. And hopefully keep doing the hard work for many more years and keep working hard whenever the team needs, she stated.
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Samarawickrama Shines as Sri Lanka Enter Asia Cup Semis
Harshitha Samarawickrama's unbeaten 48 off 37 balls led Sri Lanka to a four-wicket victory over Bangladesh, securing their spot in the women's Asia Cup semi-finals.
