Cricket

Focus on my game and consistency helped me make a comeback, says Karan

Shami happy to see Bhuvneshwar back in the Indian team

How India held nerve to beat Windies in Indore thriller

India defeated West Indies by 14 runs in Indore to take a 2-1 lead in the five-match Twenty20 International series. Chasing 224, West Indies fell short despite efforts from Shimron Hetmyer, with Arshdeep Singh being India's top bowler. India's innings was powered by Abhishek Sharma's explosive 69.

Abhishek Scales New Heights, Joins Elite Indian Club

Abhishek Sharma joined India's 2,000-run T20I club with a blistering 69 off 30 balls, equalling Suryakumar Yadav's calendar-year sixes record and registering his seventh powerplay fifty.

Why Shreyas Wants No Let-Up in India's Attacking Approach

India secured a 14-run victory over West Indies in the third T20I, taking a 2-1 series lead. Captain Shreyas Iyer praised his bowlers for their confidence and execution, and also highlighted strong performances from openers Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan. West Indies captain Shai Hope acknowledged their bowling shortcomings and the need for a stable opening partnership.

3rd T20I: Arshdeep, Dhir Star As India Beat West Indies By 14 Runs, Take 2-1 Lead

With Kamil Pooran: India's bowlers defended 223 on a dew-free night to beat West Indies by 14 runs in the T20I at the Holkar Stadium here on Sunday, and take a 2-1 lead in the five-match series. Arshdeep Singh returned with figures of 3-44, while Naman Dhir took two scalps. Arshdeep, who took out in-form Shai Hope, along with others ensured that the West Indies big-hitters couldnt ace a second chase on the trot. Shamar Springer's 11-ball 35 not out gave the visitors a late push, but it went in vain, as the West Indies finished on 209/7. The win is also the first victory for a team batting first in the white-ball series so far. It came despite India's second-half slide, with soft dismissals, had made 223 look below par at one stage, after Abhishek Sharma's 30-ball 69 had laid the foundation for a big total. Indias defence began with Mayank Yadav opening with a one-run over, while Arshdeep struck when Hope went for a wild slog, but was castled for one. Shimron Hetmyer then took the attack to the bowlers. After a quiet start, he broke free with a boundary off Mayank in the third over, and was given a life on five when Abhishek Sharma dropped a simple chance of him at short third man. Hetmyer made the most of it by hitting a six and two fours off Arshdeep in the fourth over, as 19 runs came off it. With Mayank and Prince Yadav leaking runs, West Indies reached 54/1 at the end of the Powerplay, 33 runs behind India's 87/1 at the same stage. Hetmyer carted Naman Dhir for four and six, before being bowled for 43 by a slower delivery from the off-spinner which skidded as well. With Kamil Pooran struggling for timing, West Indies were under pressure and that led to Rovman Powell holing out to deep cover for five, as he went for a loft on a quicker delivery from Axar without reaching to the pitch of the ball. Pooran launched a late assault on Dhir by hitting three sixes over cow corner, wide long-off and square leg. But Dhir had the last laugh as Pooran tried the same pick-up shot, but couldnt get under the ball and holed out in the deep for 42. Sherfane Rutherford and Quention Sampson tried resurrecting the innings with some lusty boundaries, before the latter holed out to long-off on Nitish Kumar Reddys bowling. When Arshdeep took out Keemo Paul and Rutherford in four balls of the 18th over, it made the result a foregone conclusion in Indias favour, despite some last over boundary hitting from Shamar Springer, who remained unbeaten on 11-ball 35. Pooran launched a late assault on Dhir by hitting three sixes over cow corner, wide long-off and square leg. But Dhir had the last laugh as Pooran tried the same pick-up shot, but couldnt get under the ball and holed out in the deep for 42. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

IND vs WI 3rd T20: Abhishek, Arshdeep to the fore as India wins a batathon to go 2-1 up

The Men in Blue breached the 200-run mark yet again, recording 223 courtesy of opener Abhishek Sharmas blast (69, 30b, 6x4, 5x6)

3rd T20I: Reverse Swing In The Death Overs Is Always Fun, Says Arshdeep After India's 14-run Win

Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium: Left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh said on Sunday that bowling in the death over with the ball reversing was always an enjoyable exercise, as he played a pivotal role in India defending 223 to beat West Indies by 14 runs in the third T20I here at the Holkar Stadium on Sunday. Named Player of the Match for his figures of 3-44, Arshdeep made the early breakthrough by castling the in-form Shai Hope in the second over. Kamil Pooran and Shimron Hetmyer both made scores in the 40s, but India never allowed the visitors to get ahead of the required rate. The contest stayed alive as long as Sherfane Rutherford was at the crease, until Arshdeep produced a phenomenal yorker to shatter his middle stump, and took Keemo Paul too to ensure the contest ended in Indias favour and help the hosts take a 2-1 lead in the five-match series. It was pretty nice, the ball was reversing a bit and it's always pretty fun to bowl at the death with some reverse swing, said Arshdeep to broadcasters at the conclusion of the game. On how the team deals with an off day, where he doesnt get a scalp, Arshdeep said, There is no such thing as a leader or senior in the team. It's a chill environment and anytime someone has a bad day, we put an arm around our shoulders and tell them it's fine. As an international cricketer you know you will have good days and bad days and you'll come back to do well. I personally love it when batters go hard at you in all phases because that's when you can test your skills and mental strength. Arshdeep also explained how he approaches changing conditions. The main focus is just to come early and bowl a little with new ball and old ball and adapt to the conditions. The schedule is always tight and the team that adapts early comes out on the right side of the result. As an international cricketer you know you will have good days and bad days and you'll come back to do well. I personally love it when batters go hard at you in all phases because that's when you can test your skills and mental strength. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

How bad light could shape the South Africa vs Australia Test

Around 45 overs have been lost across three days' play, which needs to be factored into teams' calculations

3rd T20I: Bowlers Were Decisive In Execution, Says Shreyas After India's 14-run Win

Shreyas Iyer: India captain Shreyas Iyer on Sunday praised his bowlers for their clarity and decisiveness, adding that the dry ball helped them stick to their plans while defending 223 in the third T20I against West Indies here at the Holkar Stadium on Sunday. With the bowlers led by Arshdeep Singhs 3-44 at their best, especially in bowling yorkers in the death overs, India sealed a 14-run win to go 2-1 up in the five-match series. It was wonderful because the bowlers were pretty confident with what they wanted to execute. The clarity was much more visible. They were decisive in their execution and when I was passing the ball to them, each and every bowler was up for the challenge and that's what you want, said Shreyas at the conclusion of the game. The skipper was also full of praise for the batting effort that set up the win, especially Abhishek Sharma's 69, Ishan Kishan's 37, and Prince Yadav's cameo of 13 not out at the end. Honestly, that was a phenomenal start. Abhishek doing what he does in the powerplay and Kishan coming in. He's been great in the last few months. Even Prince playing the cameo in the end, those were crucial runs. West Indies, you can never take them lightly. So we had to make sure we never get complacent. Both of them are high-scoring grounds but it's important we stick to our process and follow our routines and make sure we stay offensive, added Iyer. West Indies captain Shai Hope said the bowlers could have done better and that the dew-free conditions had played a part in them ending up at 209/7. So many things you can put your finger on. But cricket games have small margins. As a winning team, you can pick out defining moments. Probably with the ball, we could have executed better and we let a few boundaries through. I believe that the way we came back into the game was quite commendable. From the outset, if you look at that partnership, it was a very dangerous one, but we got some wickets with Roston, and we pulled it back. He also admitted the team needed a stronger top three in the batting the order, but did not want to blame one or two players. We have to find a good opening partnership to lay the platform but can't point your finger on one or two guys. Probably with the ball, we could have executed better and we let a few boundaries through. I believe that the way we came back into the game was quite commendable. From the outset, if you look at that partnership, it was a very dangerous one, but we got some wickets with Roston, and we pulled it back. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Farhan and Sadaqat help Pakistan seal series in style

Both batters blazed fifties to take Pakistan to 215, and Sri Lanka never got going in the chase

3rd T20I: Arshdeep and Abhishek power India to 14-run win over WI, take 2-1 series lead (Ld)

Digital Desk | Indore, Oct 11 (IANS) Abhishek Sharma top-scored with 69 off 30 balls before India's bowlers defended 223 on a dew-free night to beat West Indies by 14 runs in the T20I at the Holkar Stadium here on Sunday, and take a 2-1 lead in the five-match series. Arshdeep Singh returned with figures of 3-44, while Naman Dhir took two scalps. Arshdeep, who took out in-form Shai Hope, along with others ensured that the West Indies big-hitters couldnt ace a second chase on the trot. Shamar Springer's 11-ball 35 not out gave the visitors a late push, but it went in vain, as the West Indies finished on 209/7. The win is also the first victory for a team batting first in the white-ball series so far. It came despite India's second-half slide, with soft dismissals, had made 223 look below par at one stage, after Abhishek Sharma's 30-ball 69 had laid the foundation for a big total. Indias defence began with Mayank Yadav opening with a one-run over, while Arshdeep struck when Hope went for a wild slog, but was castled for one. Shimron Hetmyer then took the attack to the bowlers. After a quiet start, he broke free with a boundary off Mayank in the third over, and was given a life on five when Abhishek dropped a simple chance of him at short third man. Hetmyer made the most of it by hitting a six and two fours off Arshdeep in the fourth over, as 19 runs came off it. With Mayank and Prince leaking runs, West Indies reached 54/1 at the end of the Powerplay, 33 runs behind India's 87/1 at the same stage. Hetmyer carted Dhir for four and six, before being bowled for 43 by a slower delivery from the off-spinner which skidded as well. With Kamil Pooran struggling for timing, West Indies were under pressure and that led to Rovman Powell holing out to deep cover for five, as he went for a loft on a quicker delivery from Axar without reaching to the pitch of the ball. Pooran launched a late assault on Dhir by hitting three sixes over cow corner, wide long-off and square leg. But Dhir had the last laugh as Pooran tried the same pick-up shot, but couldnt get under the ball and holed out in the deep for 42. Sherfane Rutherford and Quention Sampson tried resurrecting the innings with some lusty boundaries, before the latter holed out to long-off on Nitish Kumar Reddys bowling. When Arshdeep took out Keemo Paul and Rutherford in four balls of the 18th over, it made the result a foregone conclusion in Indias favour, despite some last over boundary hitting from Springer, who looted three sixes and a four off Axar. Previously, Abhisheks blistering fifty, laced with six fours and five sixes, as well as an aggressive 108-run stand with Ishan Kishan had India on course for a score close to 250. But losing wickets at regular intervals, with several of them coming via soft dismissals and mix-ups, allowed the visitors to claw their way back and kept India to a total that looked well short of what they had threatened to post. Pushed into batting first, India made only 11 runs in the first two overs. After Roston Chase bowled the opening over and gave away four runs, Shamar Joseph removed Sanju Samson in the second over, as the opener mistimed a flick off a 150.8 kmph delivery to mid-wicket for three. Abhishek then changed the complexion of the innings - against Chase in the third over, he began by driving inside-out through cover-point for his first boundary, before lofting another inside-out drive over cover for six and ended the over with a second six going over point. After Kishan hit Paul for three fours, Springer's fifth over was taken for runs by him and Abhishek. A chip over point for four by Kishan was followed by Abhishek lofting two successive balls over cover for four before slamming a length delivery over the same region for six, as 21 runs came off it. 21 more runs came off Joseph's next over, beginning with a cut by Ishan for four. Abhishek followed it up with a six over cover and then chipped a four over mid-wicket followed. A pull to the right of deep mid-wicket fetched him two runs to complete his 14th T20I fifty off 18 balls. Abhishek then backed away and squeezed a four past point, as India ended the power-play at 87/1. During the course of his fifty, Abhishek became the fastest batter to reach 2,000 T20I runs in terms of balls faced (1,024) during his innings. He and Kishan continued to hit boundaries till the West Indies brought a twist in the game. Chase ended the 108-run second-wicket stand in the ninth over when he cramped a stepping out Kishan for room with an incoming delivery and Hope stumped him from behind. Chase later trapped skipper Shreyas Iyer lbw for one in the same over, before Abhishek fell for 69 by top-edging a pull to Springer, who took the return catch and Gudakesh Motie got his 50th T20I wicket when Dhir holed out to long-off. With India in a spot of bother, Tilak Varma and Reddy tried rebuilding the innings by hitting two fours each off Joseph in the 13th over, before the latter was caught behind off Paul for 21. After that, India were dealt a double blow by mix-ups believing that Axars flick off Gudakesh had gone for four, he bumped fists with Varma while returning for the second run. But Pooran had kept the ball in play at deep square leg, and Shai Hope's throw to Motie found Varma well short of his crease to dismiss him for 28. Axar himself fell to a run-out when he pushed a Springer delivery to point and showed no interest in a run, only to find Arshdeep already halfway down the pitch. Axar set off belatedly, but Paul and Springer combined to complete the run-out and dismiss him for 20. After Arshdeep was trapped lbw by Springer, Prince added valuable runs to Indias score by heaving, scooping and edging Joseph for three boundaries, before the pacer ended the innings by castling Mayank with a pacy yorker. Brief Scores: India 223 all out in 20 overs (Abhishek Sharma 69, Ishan Kishan 37; Roston Chase 2-38, Shamar Springer 2-50) beat West Indies 209/7 in 20 overs (Shimron Hetmyer 43, Kamil Pooran 42; Arshdeep Singh 3-44, Naman Dhir 2-39) by 14 runs.

Arshdeep and Abhishek power India to 2-1 lead

On an Indore pitch whose low bounce made big hitting difficult, Abhishek Sharma's 30-ball 69 ended up giving India an above-par total

Bowling resilience helps team India take lead in T20I series, defeat WI by 14 runs in Indore

The Indian team continued their ongoing T20I series against the West Indies. The two sides met at the Holkar International Cricket Stadium in Indore for the clash on October 11th, and the game saw India...

Australia's Bowling Giants Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon Create Test Cricket History

Australia's fabled fast-bowling quartet of Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc and Nathan Lyon etched their names into the history books during the first Test against SA at Kingsmead.

Karan returns to Ranji Trophy in style, puts Rajasthan in control against TN

Abhishek Sharma breaks Suryakumar Yadav's record, achieves huge feat with stellar start to third WI T20I

The third T20I of the ongoing series between India and the West Indies saw the two sides take on each other at the Holkar International Stadium in Indore. The clash saw the Indian team come...

Abhishek's 69 lights up T20I before India's collapse

India, despite a blistering 69 from opener Abhishek Sharma and a century stand with Ishan Kishan, collapsed from a strong position to be all out for 223 against West Indies in the third T20I on Sunday. Sloppy middle-order batting, including two run-outs, led to the team falling short of a projected massive total.

Hasan Mahmud's Hat-Trick Leaves Afghanistan Reeling In Abu Dhabi Test

Fast bowler Hasan Mahmud took a hat-trick to help put Bangladesh into a commanding lead over Afghanistan in the one-off Test in Abu Dhabi on Sunday.

Pat Cummins Leads Australia Charge As Nic Nic Maddinson, Travis Head Stretch Lead vs South Africa In 1st Test

Nic Maddinson (17 not out) and Travis Head (10 not out) added 33 runs off just 5.4 overs to stretch Australia's overall lead to 139 before bad light ended play for the third day in a row.

3rd T20I: Despite Being 15-20 Runs Short, India Got A Really Good Score, Says Abhishek Sharma

Abhishek Sharma: Left-handed opener Abhishek Sharma on Sunday felt India's total of 223 against West Indies in the third T20I at the Holkar Stadium was a really good score, despite being 15-20 runs short of the ideal one, adding that the pitch made batting far from straightforward. India raced to 87 for one in the Powerplay at 14.5 runs an over. The momentum then slowed, with the hosts losing five wickets for 87 runs between overs seven to 15. The last five overs fetched 49 runs for four wickets, as they posted 223 in their allotted 20 overs. I think the score is pretty good, because the way we started and ended it, obviously, 15-20 runs difference, but I still feel 220 is a really good score, especially on this pitch, Abhishek, who top-scored with a 30-ball 69, his 14th fifty in the format, told broadcasters in the mid-innings break. The visitors pacers took five wickets for 142 runs in 12 overs at an economy rate of 11.83, while the spinners claimed three for 75 in eight overs, going at 9.37. Abhishek also said lengths of five to six metres would be the toughest to negotiate on the pitch. Anything a bit 5 to 6 meters would be great, because it's not easy to play straight shots. So you have to wait for the ball to hit it, and that was the plan when we were batting. We had to just wait for the ball, and we spoke to the bowlers as well. The lengths and the lines, I think, which are a bit difficult to hit here. I know it's a small boundary, but still it wouldn't be too easy to hit sixes and fours here. We have enough experience (on the) bowling side. So I think it's going to be challenging for them. Abhishek further said he had first given off-spin bowling all-rounder Roston Chase due respect before going after him for big runs. I feel it's pretty much simple. I respected him in the first over, and I was waiting for the ball, and I was (having a feel of) the wicket at that time. The lengths and the lines, I think, which are a bit difficult to hit here. I know it's a small boundary, but still it wouldn't be too easy to hit sixes and fours here. We have enough experience (on the) bowling side. So I think it's going to be challenging for them. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Steve Smith Breaks Fielding Record As Australia Take Control Of 1st Test

Steve Smith broke the Test record for the most career catches by a fielder as Australia played themselves into a strong position on the third day of the first Test against South Africa at Kingsmead on Sunday. Smith held four catches, taking his total to 223, as South Africa were bowled out for 284 in reply to Australias first innings of 390. Nic Maddinson (17 not out) and Travis Head (10 not out) added 33 runs off just 5.4 overs to stretch Australias overall lead to 139 before bad light ended play for the third day in a row. Maddinson, who laboured to a 33-ball duck in the first innings, hit two fours off Marco Jansen in the first over of the second innings and added a six off Wiaan Mulder before play was called off. Australias bowlers applied relentless pressure on an easy-paced pitch and a succession of South African batsmen contributed to their own dismissals by playing poor shots. Six Protea batters reached 30 but David Bedinghams 49 was the top score. Australian captain Pat Cummins took three for 54 and Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon took two each as Australias long-serving bowling quartet combined with customary efficiency. Smith started the day on 219 catches, one behind Joe Root of England. He equalled the record when he caught South African captain Temba Bavuma. Standing at slip, he anticipated Bavuma's reverse sweep against off-spinner Nathan Lyon and moved to his right with Bavuma's mistimed shot going straight to him. Smith, playing in his 126th Test, broke the record when he lunged to his left from second slip to hold a sharp edge from Bedingham off Australian captain Pat Cummins. Smith thought he had taken another catch when he held a low edge from Wiaan Mulder at slip in the over before lunch. Mulder started walking off the field but the umpires reviewed the incident and decided the ball had not carried. But Smith was in the action again with a spectacular catch to dismiss Kyle Verreynne, again anticipating well at slip as the South African wicketkeeper made good contact with a reverse sweep which Smith held in an outstretched right hand. His fourth catch was from an edge to slip by last man Anrich Nortje off the bowling of Beau Webster. Smiths career haul of 223 catches exceeds the total of all but 11 specialist wicketkeepers. Brief scores: Australia 390 and 33-0 South Africa, first innings, 284 (A. Markram 37, D Bedingham 49, T. Stubbs 32, W. Mulder 30, S. Hermer 35 not out, K. Maharaj 34; M. Starc 2-63, J. Hazlewood 2-54, P. Cummins 3-54, N. Lyon 2-58) Match situation: Australia lead by 139 runs with 10 wickets remaining in the second innings Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Toss: Australia

Shami shines as Bengal bowls out Delhi for 240

RANJI TROPHY | Smaran bails Karnataka out from a precarious spot

CRICKET | After the host Andhra picks up early wickets and reduces the visitor to 22 for four, the visiting skipper bats for nearly five-and-a-half hours in trying conditions and stitches together a crucial fifth-wicket stand with Shrijith

Overlooked Mohammed Shami Stars With Four-Fer As Bengal Dominate Delhi In Ranji Trophy

India fast bowler Mohammed Shami reminded the national selectors of his capability yet again as he took a four-wicket haul for Bengal in their opening Group C clash against Delhi at the Bengal Cricket Academy Ground in Kalyani on Sunday.

Lad leads Mumbai's Ranji fight as Jaiswal falls for a duck

Skipper Siddhesh Lad's unbeaten 80 and Musheer Khan's 65 guided Mumbai to 249 for five against Chandigarh. Karan Lamba's unbeaten 103 and Rohan Rajbar's 95 propelled Rajasthan to 286 for 4 against Tamil Nadu. Elsewhere, Anshul Kamboj took four wickets for Haryana, and Devendra Singh Bora claimed five wickets for Uttarakhand.

Suryansh Shedge Shines As India A Beat Australia A By 49 Runs

Suryansh Shedge made a quick 66 and pacer Gurjapneet Singh took three wickets as India A beat Australia A by 49 runs in the inconsequential third one-day match on Sunday.

Abhishek Sharma Scripts World Record, Surpasses Suryakumar Yadav In Elite List

India opener Abhishek Sharma on Sunday scripted a huge world record during the 3rd T20I against the West Indies in Indore.

Ranji Trophy: How India's Big Names Fared on Day 1

Mohammed Shami claimed a four-wicket haul and Ravindra Jadeja scored an unbeaten half-century, while Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul were dismissed cheaply for a duck and four runs respectively on the opening day of the Ranji Trophy 2026-27 season.

3rd T20I: Nitish, Prince Return For India As West Indies Elect To Bowl First, Sampson, Paul Included

Nitish Kumar Reddy: India have brought back seam-bowling all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy and pacer Prince Yadav as West Indies captain Shai Hope won the toss and elected to bowl first in the third T20I at the Holkar Stadium here on Sunday. West Indies are coming off acing a thrilling record-breaking run chase in the second match in Ranchi and levelling the five-game series 1-1. A win for either of the two teams will get them a 2-1 lead. With the pitch in Indore traditionally known as a batter's paradise featuring short boundaries and flat nature, both teams are bracing for another high-scoring encounter. India skipper Shreyas Iyer said Nitish and Prince have replaced Shivam Dube and Kuldeep Yadav in their playing eleven. The dew factor played a massive role in the previous game, on a given day it happens you need to have that mindset to put it behind. It's important that we adapt and assess quickly to get to a commendable total. Given the dimensions we made those changes and we also needed someone who can hit the yorkers, he said. West Indies captain Shai Hope said Romario Shepherd has a niggle and is rested from Sundays game, while Quentin Sampson and Keemo Paul have been drafted into the playing eleven. I think we all know what I am going to do, so we are going to bowl first again. It's going to be challenging when you are playing all three formats. Just about learning as quickly as possible in these conditions. We always know that catches determine a lot of games, he said. Playing XIs: India: Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (wk), Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer (captain), Tilak Varma, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Naman Dhir, Axar Patel, Mayank Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, and Prince Yadav Playing XIs: Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

3rd T20I: Won't Get Ahead Of Ourselves Despite Historic 250-run Chase In Ranchi, Says Roston Chase

Roston Chase: West Indies off-spin bowling all-rounder Roston Chase has insisted that his team will not get ahead of themselves despite coming off a historic 250-run chase in the second T20I in Ranchi, adding that the visitors must remain grounded and focus on flawless execution in the third match here at the Holkar Stadium on Sunday. The record-breaking victory for the West Indies, led by Shai Hopes unbeaten century and Sherfane Rutherfords blistering fifty has boosted the team morale. With the series locked at 1-1, the West Indies have a chance to take a 2-1 lead if they manage to get a win in Indore. Yeah, obviously, coming (off) that historic run, 250, the guys are very confident in the camp, but we don't want to get ahead of ourselves. We still have to trust the process and play each game on its merit, Chase said in a pre-game chat with the broadcasters. Highlighting the demanding nature of playing on flat Indian surfaces with short boundaries, Chase felt that bowlers from both sides operate under minimal margin for error. On these wickets the margin for error as a bowler is very slim. You have to be spot on with your lines and lengths, and it's all about execution. And that's been the main word for us as bowlers, even as batters on this tour. It's all about execution, he said. Outlining his personal bowling approach, after he took 3-24 in Ranchi, revealed how he relies on stump-to-stump line discipline before using the yorker as a secondary option when batters look to target him. Well, mainly I just try to stick to my strengths, which is trying to hit the top of the stumps on a hard length, and then if that's not working, if the batsman then tries to measure me, then it's time to go to my yorkers. That's a good strength of mine, and I just try to keep the ball away from the batsmen, and then I think it's about being smart and studying each and every player and knowing where they want to hit the ball mostly, and trying to get away from that, he said. Elaborating on the hardships faced by the bowling group, especially in the matches where heavy dew sets in, Chase said, It is tough. It's tough - spinners and pacers. It's tough, and especially when the dew comes in. That makes it even harder because then the variation of the slow balls, it doesn't really have that big effect that it would usually have on a dry surface. So as I said, it's just about execution and sticking to the plan that you have. Whatever plan you have, just try to execute it to the best of your ability. Have a few where you can have more than one option to kind of keep the batsman guessing where you're going to go. Elaborating on the hardships faced by the bowling group, especially in the matches where heavy dew sets in, Chase said, It is tough. It's tough - spinners and pacers. It's tough, and especially when the dew comes in. That makes it even harder because then the variation of the slow balls, it doesn't really have that big effect that it would usually have on a dry surface. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Rohit Sharma Shines With 5/36 As Jammu And Kashmir Seize Control Against Madhya Pradesh

Defending champions Jammu and Kashmir made a strong start with the ball as medium pacer Rohit Sharma claimed five wickets to dismiss Madhya Pradesh for 196 on the opening day of their Ranji Trophy Elite Group A match on Sunday.

Bhuvneshwar Returns, But Why Was Shami Left Out?

Indian pacer Navdeep Saini has voiced strong support for Mohammed Shami's return to the national team, highlighting Shami's consistent hard work and performances in domestic cricket. Saini also drew inspiration from Bhuvneshwar Kumar's recent recall for the T20I series against New Zealand, seeing it as proof that consistent performance can lead to a comeback.

RANJI TROPHY | Lad to the fore as Mumbai weathers early inroads by Chandigarh

CRICKET | The skippers unbeaten 80 and a fighting half-century by Musheer negates the visitors decision to bowl first on a pitch with a greenish tinge while Mhatre chips in with a useful contribution

3rd T20I: God Has Been Kind, Working Hard On Mental Aspect To Finish Games, Says Tilak Varma

Tilak Varma: India vice-captain Tilak Varma has attributed his recent success in the middle order to rigorous mental preparation and practice, as well as to the Almighty, while adding that he has been working hard on the mental aspect to finish matches for the team. While Tilaks finishing abilities werent required in Lucknow, he did slam an unbeaten 44 against the West Indies in Ranchi and smashed an unbeaten 51 in India retaining its gold medal at the Asian Games in Japan earlier this month. First of all, thank you for mentioning that about the Asian Games and World Cup. It always feels good whenever I hear about that. And right now, yes, God has been really kind to me. And right now, my form is also going really good. And definitely, if you see, the way I finished that last match (was) terrific. But at the same point, again, we are focusing on our basics. Let's see how it goes, and right now my form is good, Varma said in a pre-game chat with the broadcasters. Addressing the shift in his batting position from the top-order to taking up responsibility of finishing games in the middle order, the left-handed batter explained that the transformation required deliberate effort both in the nets and mentally, which is still a work in progress. Honestly, I haven't played much at No. 4. You know, as our coach said, every batsman after... The openers are only fixed. Other than that, everyone keeps rotating. But I always say, batting up the order was my strength before, but now I got used to it since the World Cup. Addressing the shift in his batting position from the top-order to taking up responsibility of finishing games in the middle order, the left-handed batter explained that the transformation required deliberate effort both in the nets and mentally, which is still a work in progress. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

West Indies bowl; India bring in Reddy and Prince

West Indies were forced to leave out Romario Shepherd and brought in Quentin Sampson and Keemo Paul for him and Akeal Hosein

Why is Kuldeep Yadav not playing in India's 3rd T20I vs West Indies in Indore?

The Indian take on the West Indies in the third T20I of the ongoing five-game series between the two sides. The teams met at the Holkar International Stadium in Indore on October 11th, and the game began with the Windies winning the toss and skipper Shai Hope electing to bowl first, hoping to display some good cricket once more.

Pacer Sharma Shines as J and K Begin Ranji Trophy Defence Strongly

Defending champions Jammu and Kashmir made an impressive start to their Ranji Trophy Elite Group A campaign, dismissing Madhya Pradesh for 196 on the opening day. Medium pacer Rohit Sharma led the attack with a five-wicket haul, while Sunil Kumar added four wickets. J and K were 3/1 at stumps, trailing by 193 runs.

SL make three changes and opt to bowl in must-win game

Pakistan made one change, swapping right-arm quick Razaullah for left-arm fast bowler Salman Mirza

RANJI TROPHY | Tripuras batting wilts after a game fight, Hyderabad a mere 13 behind

CRICKET | The hosts gamble of playing two pacers and three spinners pays off handsomely, with the spin duo of Tanay and Aniketh ripping through the visitors line-up; offie Sarkar sparks a mini riposte with four wickets

The Untold Story of Luhnu Cricket Ground: From a Submerged Towns Rebirth to a Ranji Trophy Comeback

When cricket fans think of picturesque stadiums in Himachal Pradesh, the spectacular, snow-capped peaks of Dharamshala inevitably dominate the conversation. But this October, domestic crickets spotlight shall take a dramatic 150-kilometre detour southwest. Following persistent, unseasonal rain that left the Dharamshala outfield waterlogged and unplayable, the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) made a breaking announcement: the high-profile Elite Group D Ranji Trophy clash between powerhouse defending champions Mumbai and Himachal Pradesh (1821 October 2026) has been officially moved to the Luhnu Cricket Ground in Bilaspur. For Luhnu, a highly rated 4.4-star venue praised by locals for its well-maintained pitches and spacious outfield, this match marks a monumental competitive resurgence. Moving a first-class four-day match on short notice is a massive logistical gamble, but the Luhnu Cricket Ground is uniquely equipped for weather crises. Nestled directly on the edge of the expansive Gobind Sagar Lake, the ground features newly upgraded SISGrass hybrid pitches. By injecting 5% artificial polymer fibres into the natural grass turf, the square has become highly resilient to player wear and tear while recovering exceptionally fast from heavy rains. While the venue boasts a dedicated team of passionate staff, it has spent over two decades waiting for a moment like this. Luhnu first hosted youth cricket in 1999, followed by its first-class debut in the 2001/02 Ranji Trophy when Himachal played Delhi, and a subsequent fixture against Hyderabad in 2002/03. For 24 years, no further major senior domestic matches were staged hereuntil the weather gods and modern turf technology combined to hand Bilaspur its grand stage. This isn't the first time the Luhnu Ground has been intricately tied to Dharamshala's weather and logistical dramas. In March 2024, just 48 hours before the high-stakes 5th Test Match between India and England, the tranquil town of Bilaspur witnessed an unprecedented spectacle. At the crack of dawn, Indian Captain Rohit Sharma embarked on a frantic multi-leg journey after attending the Ambani family pre-wedding festivities. Having flown out from Delhi at 5:30 AM, a private helicopter braved the volatile mountain weather to fly Rohit directly into Bilaspur, landing on the Luhnu outfield at the behest of then-Union Sports Minister Anurag Thakur. Joined by Head Coach Rahul Dravid, Rohit spent the morning at the Luhnu ground inaugurating the Sansad Khel Mahakumbh 3.0. The duo even thrilled the local crowds by playing tennis-ball cricket with local youth right on the lakeside turf. At the time, Thakur publicly lauded Rohit, noting that the captain easily could have refused the demanding early-morning trip so close to a Test match but chose to come to inspire the 75,000 young rural athletes gathered at the venue. But what happened after the Bilaspur event created its own separate media storm. With India's official team net practice scheduled for early afternoon in Dharamshala, there was zero time to negotiate the winding mountain highways. Rohit and Dravid boarded the chopper at Luhnu once more, flying directly over the Dhauladhar peaks to Dharamshala. To avoid delaying his arrival at the team camp, the private chopper touched down at the Kangra District Badminton Association Ground. Because the landing took place right next to the iconic HPCA infrastructure, social media went into a frenzy over the grand helicopter entry, allowing the skipper to instantly join the squad for training without losing a single minute to road traffic. Luhnus entire existence is rooted in a story of rebirth. In the 1960s, the construction of the iconic Bhakra Dam transformed the Sutlej River, completely submerging the old historical town of Bilaspur. As a new town was meticulously planned and built on higher ground, Luhnu emerged as its vast, open-air cultural heart and primary oxygen zone. Instead of Dharamshalas jagged peaks, players and spectators at Luhnu are treated to a stunning, serene lakeside view, where the lush outfield seems to melt directly into the emerald-blue waters of the Gobind Sagar reservoir. It is a place where migratory Siberian ducks fly past in the winter, and the earthy fragrance of pine leaves fills the air. It stands as one of the most picturesque stadiums in India. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories With plans currently underway to further develop the surrounding waters into an official hub for adventure water sports and boating festivals, Luhnu is quickly transitioning from a beloved community park into a premier multi-sport destination. As Mumbai travels to town this October, the lakeside ground is finally getting the grand first-class cricket spotlight it was always meant to occupy.

Ranji Trophy: Shami Takes Four-wicket Haul; Smaran Smashes Century On Captaincy Debut On Opening Day

Dr Gokaraju Liala Gangaaraju ACA: India fast bowler Mohammed Shami reminded the national selectors of his capability yet again as he took a four-wicket haul for Bengal in their opening Group C clash against Delhi at the Bengal Cricket Academy Ground in Kalyani on Sunday. Shami, who has been overlooked by Indian selectors despite his consistent performances in the domestic circuit, took 4-30 in 17.3 overs as Bengal bowled Delhi out for 240. The veteran also sent in nine maiden overs and bowled at a mingy economy of 1.70, showing his class once again. Other India internationals, Akash Deep and Mukesh Kumar, were also among the wickets, with Akash taking 2-74 in his 17 overs (4.40 economy) and Mukesh scalping 1-43 in 17 overs (2.50 economy). Off-spinner Aamir Gani took three wickets for 45 as he also played a crucial role with Bengal. Meanwhile, Ravichandran Smaran marked his Karnataka captaincy debut with a stellar hundred against Andhra in a Group B clash at the Dr Gokaraju Liala Gangaaraju ACA Cricket Ground in Vijayawada. Karnataka were in trouble at 22/4, but Smaran smashed 126 from 218 balls to bail the team out of trouble, with wicketkeeper Krishnan Shrijith hitting 58 and Madhav Bajaj scoring 33 to help Karnataka make 274. In reply, Andhra ended the day 16/2 with Shikhar Shetty and Madhav Bajaj taking a wicket each. In another Group B fixture between Saurashtra and Chhattisgarh at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot, India all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja remained unbeaten at 72 at the end of Day 1 as Saurashtra made 308/4. Prerak Mankad also went back unscathed on 92, while opener Chirag Jani had scored 83 earlier. Umesh Yadav also struck twice for Punjab in their fixture against Assam in New Chandigarh, but bad light forced an early stumps as Assam were 68/3. In other Group C matches, Jharkhand's Sikhar Mohan made 143 as his team ended the Day 1 strong at 289/5 against Kerala at Keenan Stadium in Jamshedpur. Gaurav Choudhary scored an unbeaten 121 to power Odisha to 272/3 against Gujarat in Ahmedabad, while Ankeet Bawne hit a hundred for Maharashtra to help them end Day 1 against Services at 289/5. Prithvi Shaw also made 70. In Group A, Akshay Wadkar and Yash Rathod scored centuries to help Vidarbha end the day at 292/5 against Pondicherry after they were in trouble at 54/5. J&K seamer Rohit Sharma took his maiden five-wicket haul, playing after two years as Madhya Pradesh were bowled out for 196. Baroda ended Day 1 at 204/3 after opener Shivalik Sharma made 62, while Deepak Hooda, having returned to his former team, remained unbeaten on 38. Rinku Singh and Madhav Kaushik also scored centuries for Uttar Pradesh in their clash against Bihar to lift the team from 85/3 to 287/3 at the end of the day. In Group D, India Test opener Yashasvi Jaiswal was dismissed for a duck, but Mumbai's new captain went back unbeaten on 80, with Musheer Khan also scoring 65 as Mumbai ended the day on 249/5. Rinku Singh and Madhav Kaushik also scored centuries for Uttar Pradesh in their clash against Bihar to lift the team from 85/3 to 287/3 at the end of the day. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

India A hit back as Shedge, Gurjapneet sink Australia

India A defeated Australia A by 49 runs in the third and final one-day match in Puducherry on Sunday, though Australia A secured the series 2-1. Suryansh Shedge's quick 66 and Vipraj Nigam's 40 helped India A post 275, while Gurjapneet Singh's three wickets ensured Australia A were bowled out for 226.

IND vs WI 3rd T20I LIVE Score: India look to take the series lead in Indore

India and the West Indies are all set to take on each other in the third T20I of the ongoing series. The teams meet at the Holkar Stadium in Indore for the clash, and it could be interesting to see which side comes out on top. It is worth noting that the series currently sits at 1-1. It began in Lucknow, where India won the game after a brilliant run chase orchestrated by skipper Shreyas Iyer. Coming on the back of a dominant show in Lucknow, India failed to replicate their performance in the second T20I.

Steve Smith smashes Joe Root's world record, achieves massive feat against South Africa in 1st Test

Veteran Australia batter Steve Smith has once again captured the limelight as the star man has surpassed Englands Joe Root and broken his world record. It is interesting to note that Steve Smith achieved a...

RANJI TROPHY | J&K bowls out MP cheaply thanks to Rohit and Sunils exploits

CRICKET | The two medium pacers share nine wickets between themselves as the visitor is skittled out for 196 with only skipper Shubham making a fist of it with a fighting half-century

Gurjapneet, Thakur, Sindhu star as India A avoid 3-0 sweep with 49-run win over Australia A

Digital Desk | Puducherry, Oct 11 (IANS) A clinical effort from the bowling attack, led by Gurjapneet Singhs three-for and two scalps each taken by Yash Thakur and Nishant Sindhu, helped India A avoid a 3-0 series sweep with a convincing 49-run victory over Australia A in the third and final 50-over game here at the CAP Siechem Ground on Sunday. In a successful defence of 275, India A bundled out Australia A for 226 in 46.2 overs. The visitors suffered a sensational collapse as they lost seven wickets for just 49 runs after sitting comfortably at 177/3 at one stage. Left-arm pacer Gurjapneet used his variations to great effect to finish with impressive figures of 3-42, while right-arm fast bowler Thakur (2-38) and left-arm spin bowling all-rounder Sindhu (2-41) delivered key strikes in the middle and lower overs to seal the win for India A. Earlier, after being inserted to bat on a slowish pitch with variable bounce, India A were bowled out for 275 in 49.3 overs, largely anchored by a counter-attacking 85-run seventh-wicket stand between Suryansh Shedge (66) and Vipraj Nigam (40). India A had gotten off to a flying start as openers Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh had an 83-run opening stand. However, Prabhsimran's exit for 39 in the 11th over triggered a top-order wobble, as India A lost five wickets for 35 runs to slip to 118/5. Alongside Shedge, skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad attempted to steady the ship by hitting 33 off 57 balls. But Mitchell Owen removed the captain to leave India A reeling at 159/6. Vipraj then provided the much-needed impetus alongside a determined Shedge to lift the side to exactly 275. Chasing 276, Australia A had an 82-run opening stand, led by Josh Philippes fluent half-century. But Nigam provided the breakthrough by dismissing Philippe, and Liam Scott fell in the very next over as India A put the brakes on the scoring rate. Though Nathan McSweeney (39) and Lachlan Shaw (31) added 58 runs for the third wicket, India A's bowlers kept pressure at both ends. Once the stand was broken, as Shaw fell to Anukul Roy, Gurjapneet, Thakur, and Sindhu ripped through the lower order, and aided by a timely run-out of Nikhil Chaudhary, India A managed to get a consolation win, as Australia A won the series 2-1. Brief Scores: India A 275 in 47.3 overs (Suryansh Shedge 66, Priyansh Arya 49; Ben Dwarshuis 3-38, Will Sutherland 3-44) beat Australia A 226 in 46.2 overs (Josh Philippe 56, Nathan McSweeney 39; Gurjapneet Singh 3-56, Yash Thakur 2-35) by 49 runs.

Clinical Shami Leads Bengal's Charge in Ranji Opener Vs Delhi

Mohammed Shami's impressive 4/30 led Bengal's strong start against Delhi in the Ranji Trophy. Other matches saw centuries from Shikhar Mohan (Jharkhand), Ankit Bawne (Maharashtra), and Gaurav Choudhary (Odisha) on the opening day of Group C fixtures.

Mostary: I am so happy about my century

She made 118 off 134 against Australia in Brisbane, the highest score by a Bangladesh batter in ODIs

Suryansh Shedge shines as India A down Australia A in third one-dayer

Suryansh Shedge's quickfire 66 and Gurjapneet Singh's three wickets led India A to a 49-run victory over Australia A in the third and final one-day match in Puducherry, though Australia A clinched the series 2-1.

India vs West Indies LIVE Score, 3rd T20I: Focus On Vaibhav Sooryavanshi vs Sanju Samson As India Aim For Crucial Lead

India vs West Indies 3rd T20I LIVE Score Updates: The series is currently tied at 1-1, with West Indies winning the second game.

Shedge and Gurjapneet give India A a consolation win

Nigam's all-round efforts where he made 40 and then dismissed Philippe, earned him the Player-of-the-Match award

'Rag Rag Mein Cricket': Gavaskar Unveils Book on Jagdale's Legacy

Sunil Gavaskar launched 'Rag Rag Mein Cricket', chronicling Sanjay Jagdale's journey from cricketer to coach, selector and administrator, while praising his lifelong, invaluable contribution to Indian cricket.

India vs West Indies, 3rd T20I Pitch Report, how will surface in Indore play?

The stage is set for the third of five T20Is of the ongoing series between India and the West Indies. The two sides will meet at the Holkar Stadium in Indore on October 11th, and...

Australia in control as South Africa lose early wickets on Day 3

Australia took a firm grip on the first Test against South Africa, securing three crucial wickets before lunch on the third day, leaving the hosts 115 for four and 275 runs adrift of Australia's first innings total of 390.

New Zealand Look To Move Finn Allen To Middle-order During India ODIs

T20 World Cup: New Zealand are considering a move to slot Finn Allen down to the middle order during the upcoming five-match ODI series against India that begins on November 4 in New Zealand. Allen has been recalled for the 50-over series and last featured in the ODIs in late 2023. He has not batted anywhere below the opening slots in List A cricket since 2020. Allen and Tim Seifert open the innings for the Kiwis in the T20Is, but the Kiwis are considering breaking that swashbuckling association in the ODIs. Head coach Rob Walter confirmed the development after the Kiwis announced their squad for the India series, stating that his demotion to the middle order can help the Blackcaps influence the game in crucial middle overs and get more runs. It's unlikely that they (Allen and Seifert) will open together, Walter said after the squad announcement, as quoted by Cricinfo. We've got sort of a different role in mind for Finn in the middle order. So we want to explore that as an option, obviously, given his capability to sort of influence the game. In 50-over cricket, there's a space in the middle of the game to take on the spinners or the fifth or sixth bowler. So, yeah, we'll explore that with Finn. Obviously, we know he's destructive, and it is a little bit different in 50-over cricket. He's not foreign to 50-over cricket. He's certainly played enough of it, but it is a slightly new role for him. So, yeah, looking forward to seeing how that goes, he added. With a possible move down the order for Allen, Devon Conway is the likeliest option to open with Seifert, and when Conway leaves after the first three ODIs to prepare for the India Tests, Nick Kelly could be entrusted to open the innings. Walter further highlighted that the rationale behind the move is to take the game on in the middle overs with Allen a proven power-hitter. We actually want to see what it looks like to have someone in the middle order just taking on the game, Walter said. So, that's obviously not being reckless because if it was that easy, everyone would do it. But there's a sort of a shift in 50-over cricket, especially if the surfaces are good, where overs 25-40 become pretty important whilst there's an extra fielder in the ring. So, we want him to express himself. But there obviously has to be a slight shift in it. And it is very different to when there are only two (fielders) out in the powerplay of a T20 game. But that said, he also has batted into the latter parts of a T20 game where there are five fielders out. So, hopefully, finding sort of the happy medium in between can provide a nice competitive advantage, he added. He further revealed that the discussion took place during the T20 World Cup 2026, with the batter also having conversations with Auckland Aces coach Rob Nicol about generating more power for the middle-order role. I mean, this is a conversation that happened in the T20 World Cup already, Walter said. And I can't remember if he came to me or if I went to him, but we were sort of probably both thinking about a similar thing. I know Rob Nicol at the Aces had discussed it with him as well. He further revealed that the discussion took place during the T20 World Cup 2026, with the batter also having conversations with Auckland Aces coach Rob Nicol about generating more power for the middle-order role. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

New Zealand announce squad for India ODIs, three key stars make emphatic returns; Check details

NZC (New Zealand Cricket) recently came forward and announced the sides squad ahead of the upcoming multi-format series against the Indian team. It is interesting to note that India will soon be touring New Zealand...

'Hard work has paid off for Bhuvneshwar'

Suresh Raina said Bhuvneshwar Kumar's return to the national squad the reward of hard work, discipline and consistent performances in domestic cricket.

Bowlers put Australia on top on third morning in Durban

Steven Smith backed up the bowlers by claiming two sublime catches that lifted him past Joe Root for the most Test catches by a non-wicketkeeper

Gambhir, Kotak Seeks Blessings At Mahakaleshwar Temple Ahead Of 3rd T20I

Bhasma Aarti Darshan: India head coach Gautam Gambhir and batting coach Sitanshu Kotak visited the Mahakaleshwar Temple on Sunday to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva ahead of the third T20I against the West Indies at Holkar Stadium in Indore later in the day. The visit comes ahead of a crucial encounter in the five-match T20I series, which is levelled at 1-1 after the West Indies registered a thrilling victory in the second match in Ranchi. The visitors chased down Indias 250-run target with more than an over to spare, setting up an intriguing contest in Indore. Speaking about his visit, Gambhir said he had been called for darshan and expressed hope that the blessings of Lord Mahakal would continue to guide him and the country. I was called here for darshan, and Babas blessings have always been with me. May his blessings remain upon the country as well. I am confident that we will do well, and Babas blessings will always be with us, Gambhir told reporters after his visit. Gambhir and Kotak had also visited the Mahakaleshwar Temple in January ahead of the decisive third ODI between India and New Zealand at the Holkar Stadium. On that occasion, the two coaches participated in the divine Bhasma Aarti. They sat in the Nandi Hall during the holy ritual, remained present for nearly two hours and prayed for the teams success. After the Aarti, they had darshan of Lord Mahakal from the temple threshold and offered water to Nandi as part of the customary rituals. Gambhir has visited the temple on several occasions, including a visit with his family around five months before the January trip. He has also been part of the 'Bhasma Aarti Darshan' several times After the Aarti, they had darshan of Lord Mahakal from the temple threshold and offered water to Nandi as part of the customary rituals. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

NZ look to move Allen to the middle order for 'competitive advantage' in ODIs

Finn Allen has not played an ODI in more than three years but Rob Walter backs him to come good in the middle overs

Sports Min Mandaviya Leads Youth In Anti-drug Pledge During Fit India Sundays On Cycle In Varanasi

Sports Min Mandaviya: Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya led the 94th edition of Fit India Sundays on Cycle here, bringing together over 500 cyclists and more than 1,000 participants to champion the message of a drug-free youth and a healthier India. The event, centred on the theme Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat, witnessed the participation of medallists from the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, including Prachi Chaudhary, Parul Chaudhary, Jay Kumar and Raj Kumar Pal. The event commenced at Namo Ghat with a meditation session led by Nivedita Shreyans, Director, Youth Affairs, Heartfulness Institute, Kanha Shantivanam, Hyderabad, highlighting the importance of mental well-being alongside physical fitness in leading a healthy life. Addressing the gathering, Mandaviya called upon young people to make fitness a part of their daily routine and embrace healthy lifestyle choices. Reinforcing the importance of a drug-free society, the minister and participants took the Nasha Mukt Bharat pledge, reaffirming their collective resolve to combat substance abuse and build a drug-free generation. Following the address, Mandaviya led the cycle rally from Namo Ghat to Sampurnanand Sanskrit University, carrying the message of Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat across the streets of Varanasi. The event also celebrated Indias sporting achievements with the felicitation of distinguished medallists from the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games. The felicitated sportspersons included Prachi Chaudhary, bronze medallist in the womens 400m; Parul Chaudhary, double bronze medallist in the womens 3000m steeplechase and 5000m; Jay Kumar, silver medallist in the mixed 4x400m relay and bronze medallist in the mens 4x400m relay; and Raj Kumar Pal, gold medallist as part of the Indian mens hockey team. By bringing accomplished athletes closer to communities, Fit India Sundays on Cycle also provided an opportunity for young people to interact with sporting role models and draw inspiration from their journeys. The 94th edition reinforced the message that fitness goes beyond physical activity, it is a way of life that promotes discipline, mental well-being and responsible choices. By bringing accomplished athletes closer to communities, Fit India Sundays on Cycle also provided an opportunity for young people to interact with sporting role models and draw inspiration from their journeys. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Amid BCCI Pitch Controversy, R Ashwin's Big Verdict On Puducherry Wicket For India A Series

The pitches in the ongoing unofficial ODI series between India A and Australia saw scores of under 300 being defended with ease. Australia A made 274 in the first unofficial ODI and went on to win by 125 runs with India A getting bowled out for 149.

Brilliant Voice For Childrens Rights: Tendulkar Welcomes Mandhana To UNICEF Family

UNICEF India Representative Cynthia McCaffrey: Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar on Sunday welcomed womens captain Smriti Mandhana to the UNICEF India family after she was appointed the organisations celebrity advocate on the occasion of the International Day of the Girl. Welcome to the @UNICEFIndia family, @mandhana_smriti! You inspire millions on the field, and I know you will be a brilliant voice for childrens rights off it, Tendulkar, who is UNICEF Ambassador for South Asia, wrote on X. Mandhanas appointment is aimed at strengthening efforts to promote childrens rights and create equal opportunities for girls, particularly in sports. As UNICEF Indias celebrity advocate, she will support initiatives focused on empowering adolescent girls, promoting their health and well-being, and helping them realise their full potential. The International Day of the Girl highlights the rights, safety, potential and leadership of girls while drawing attention to the barriers that continue to restrict their choices and opportunities. Mandhana said she was honoured to take on the role, emphasising how access to opportunities and encouragement can help children pursue their ambitions. I am deeply honoured to join UNICEF India as a Celebrity Advocate. Growing up playing cricket taught me that every dream begins with an opportunity. With hard work, determination, and encouragement, that opportunity can turn into something extraordinary. Every child and young person deserves the chance to dream big and reach their full potential, Mandhana said. The left-handed batter has previously supported UNICEF-ICC campaigns centred on gender equality and life skills, along with UNICEFs Promise to Children campaign. Her new role will build on these efforts, with a particular focus on ensuring girls have equal opportunities to participate in sports and develop their abilities. UNICEF India Representative Cynthia McCaffrey said Mandhanas journey could inspire young girls by demonstrating what becomes possible when talent is supported by opportunity. The left-handed batter has previously supported UNICEF-ICC campaigns centred on gender equality and life skills, along with UNICEFs Promise to Children campaign. Her new role will build on these efforts, with a particular focus on ensuring girls have equal opportunities to participate in sports and develop their abilities. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

R Ashwin Praises Puducherry For Producing Balanced Pitches During India A-Australia A ODIs

Cricket Association Puducherry Siechem Ground: Former India cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin praised Puducherry for producing even pitches for batters and bowlers in ODI cricket, saying surfaces like these are where ODIs should be played. Taking note from the ongoing unofficial ODIs between India A and Australia A at the Cricket Association Puducherry Siechem Ground, Ashwin stated that pitches like these will demand more from the batters. Right now! Pondicherry seems to be producing the kind of pitches ODIs should be played on, Ashwin wrote on X. 250 chases look stiff! Producing pitches like these will demand more from the batters, tickle their tactical thinking and game awareness. The pitches in the ongoing unofficial ODI series between India A and Australia saw scores of under 300 being defended with ease. Australia A made 274 in the first unofficial ODI and went on to win by 125 runs with India A getting bowled out for 149. The Aussies made 275 in the second unofficial game and won the match by 69 runs after bowling India A out for 206. This helped the Aussies take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series with a game to go. The story looked similar in the third match too, when India A racked up 275 in the first innings. Only one hundred was hit across the five innings in the series, and that came from Aussie batter Nathan McSweeney's bat in the first match, and five fifty-plus scores were made. This comes in the backdrop of recent run-feasts between India and the West Indies. India went on to chase 406 with relative ease against the Windies in the second ODI of the three-match series with eight wickets in hand and 39 balls to spare as the surface was pure flat for run-scoring. Captain Shubman Gill had scored an unbeaten 223, while Rohit Sharma made 101 as India chased down the second-highest score in ODI cricket, after that epic chase of 435 by South Africa against Australia in 2006. Batters bossed the proceedings in the third ODI of the series as well as India racked up 351/7 batting first before the Windies went on to hunt the total down with five wickets in hand and 10 balls to spare. Captain Shubman Gill had scored an unbeaten 223, while Rohit Sharma made 101 as India chased down the second-highest score in ODI cricket, after that epic chase of 435 by South Africa against Australia in 2006. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Australia's Renshaw breaks Kohli's record for runs with tail-enders!

Australia's Matt Renshaw has broken Virat Kohli's record for the most runs scored while batting with lower-order batters and tail-enders (numbers 8 to 11) in a single Test innings, achieving 174 runs during his 190-run knock against South Africa in Durban.

UNICEF India Names Cricket Icon Smriti Mandhana As Celebrity Advocate

UNICEF India on Sunday announced Indian women's cricket captain Smriti Mandhana as their celebrity advocate on the occasion of the International Day of the Girl.

India Coach Gautam Gambhir Prays At Mahakaleshwar Temple In Ujjain

India head coach Gautam Gambhir visited the Mahakaleshwar temple in Ujjain to offer prayers ahead of the team's third T20 International against the West Indies in Indore, with the five-match series currently level at 1-1.

Arunachal Pradesh Forfeit Ranji Trophy Plate Group Opener Against Nagaland Amid Administrative Crisis

The forfeiture comes after Arunachal Pradesh failed to field their Under-19 team for a Vinoo Mankad Trophy match against Sikkim in Bhubaneswar on Thursday, with the ongoing dispute leaving the association without a functioning authority to take decisions on team selection.

Rahmat Shah Scripts History With Hundred On Captaincy Debut Against Bangladesh

Sheikh Zayed Stadium: Rahmat Shah began his Test captaincy tenure with a record century in the one-off Test match against Bangladesh at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium here on Sunday. Shah scored 105 in almost a lone fight for Afghanistan in the first innings in reply to Bangladesh's 346. He has now become the first Afghan player to score a hundred on Test captaincy debut. Shah took over as the Test and ODI captain from Hashmatullah Shahidi in July this year. His first assignment as Test captain in the one-off Test saw him achieve a historic milestone as he also hit 10 fours and two sixes in a 105-run knock, which came from 216 balls. While Shah made 105, opener Abdul Malik also scored 62 in 120 deliveries. Wicketkeeper batter Ikram Alikhil also put up a fight with 32 from 103 deliveries as Afghanistan ended up on 240. It was a stellar bowling display from Bangladesh fast bowler Hasan Mahmud, who took a hat-trick and a five-wicket haul, while fellow speedster Ebadot Hossain also scored four wickets. Mahmud has now become the first Bangladesh pacer to take a Test hat-trick and the third from his country overall. Before him, leg-spin all-rounder Alok Kapali (vs Pakistan in 2003) and off-spinner Sohag Gazi (vs New Zealand in 2013) had taken hat-tricks in the longest format. Mahmud also completed a five-wicket haul as he removed Yamin Ahmadzai for an 11-ball duck. He completed his 50 wickets in the format and became the fastest Bangladesh pacer to take 50 wickets in the format as Afghanistan were bowled out for 240. Bangladesh took a lead of 106 in the first innings. Mahmud has now become the first Bangladesh pacer to take a Test hat-trick and the third from his country overall. Before him, leg-spin all-rounder Alok Kapali (vs Pakistan in 2003) and off-spinner Sohag Gazi (vs New Zealand in 2013) had taken hat-tricks in the longest format. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

New Zealand unveils special 'Kotahitanga' jersey for India ODIs

New Zealand Cricket will don a special limited-edition 'Kotahitanga' jersey, featuring lotus flowers and mandala art, during their upcoming ODI series against India to commemorate 100 years of sporting ties between the two nations.

Ex-India Star Makes Big Rohit Sharma-Virat Kohli Prediction Ahead Of ODI World Cup 2027

Robin Singh said Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will be big assets to the Indian team in the ODI World Cup 2027 in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.

Sobhana Mostary Becomes First Bangladesh Woman To Hit International Ton Against Australia

Allan Border Field: Sobhana Mostary achieved a significant milestone as she became the first Bangladesh woman to hit an international hundred against Australia during the second ODI against the Aussies here at the Allan Border Field. Mostary smashed her maiden international ton as she made a stellar 118 off 134 balls in the must-win second ODI, a knock which powered her team to 220/6 batting first. Mostary blended composure with grit after her team was in early trouble at 8/3 after the Aussies inserted Bangladesh to bat first. She put up a huge 195-run stand for the fourth wicket with captain Nigar Sultana to bail the team out of trouble and give something to the visitors to fight. Mostary hit 18 fours in her knock, while Sultana also made 74 from 114 balls. En route to her 118, Mostary became the first Bangladesh woman to hit an international hundred against Australia. Before her 118 and Sultana's 74, the previous highest knock by a Bangladesh woman against Australia was an unbeaten 63 by Sultana in a T20I. Meanwhile, the 195-run stand for the fourth wicket between Mostary and Sultana is also the highest for Bangladesh for any wicket in ODI cricket, going past the 152-run stand between Sultana and Sharmin Akhter for the third wicket against Thailand women in 2025. This is now also the highest stand against Australia women in ODIs for any wicket, going past the previous highest of 170, put up by New Zealand's Emily Drumm and Rebecca Rolls for the second wicket in an ODI way back in 2002. Mostary's knock came to an end when Megan Schutt cleaned her up in the 48th over. Schutt took four wickets in the innings as she also struck twice in the powerplay, removing Fargana Hoque and Sharmin Akhter. She later also took the wicket of Shorna Akter. This is now also the highest stand against Australia women in ODIs for any wicket, going past the previous highest of 170, put up by New Zealand's Emily Drumm and Rebecca Rolls for the second wicket in an ODI way back in 2002. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

We Don't Have Enough Quality: India Great's Brutal Verdict After 2nd T20I Loss To West Indies

Batting first, India posted 249/5 in the second T20I against West Indies. The Shreyas Iyer-led side failed to defend it as Windies replied with 252/4 in 18.3 overs.

Ranji Trophy: Arunachal Pradesh forfeit opener against Nagaland amid association crisis

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 11 (IANS) Arunachal Pradeshs domestic cricket campaign has suffered another setback, with the state forfeiting its Ranji Trophy Plate Group opener against Nagaland amid an administrative deadlock that has left its cricket association without a functioning authority to manage team selection and other operations. The match was scheduled to begin on Sunday at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, coinciding with the start of the 2026-27 Ranji Trophy season. The forfeiture follows Arunachal Pradeshs failure to field a team for their Vinoo Mankad Trophy fixture against Sikkim in Bhubaneswar earlier this week, highlighting the growing impact of the dispute on players across age groups. The crisis stems from a legal battle over the Arunachal Cricket Associations (ACA) September elections, in which Nabam Vivek was elected president. Several district associations subsequently challenged the polls, alleging irregularities and seeking fresh elections. The matter is pending before the Itanagar bench of the Gauhati High Court, which has reserved its order. The court proceedings have effectively paralysed the association, preventing the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) from intervening to establish an alternative administrative arrangement while the matter remains pending. BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia had earlier told IANS that the legal impasse had already disrupted Arunachal Pradeshs participation in junior domestic competitions, with the absence of a functioning state body making team selection and preparation impossible. There are two factions in the Arunachal Cricket Association, and they are having a litigation issue in the Guwahati High Court-Itanagar Bench. There was some stay order from the High Court about a couple of months ago on the boards functioning. So, due to the issue present in front of that bench, there is no functionary in the Arunachal Cricket Association. The matter was finally heard in the first week of September, but the judgment is yet to be delivered by the bench. So no board is in place there for quite some time, and therefore, there was no preparation to constitute a team for this Vinoo Mankad Trophy, Saikia had told IANS. At the time, Saikia had also expressed uncertainty over the states participation in the Ranji Trophy, with the opening fixture against Nagaland approaching and the court yet to deliver its verdict. As a result, they could not field the team in the junior mens levels. I dont know what will happen over them playing in the Ranji Trophy, starting on October 11. Everybody is waiting for the outcome of the courts verdict. As the matter is sub-judice, the BCCI cannot also step in. Nobody is governing there because of this matter there in the court, added Saikia. The forfeiture of the Ranji Trophy fixture has now turned those concerns into a setback for the states senior mens team. The dispute has also raised questions about Arunachal Pradeshs ability to participate in the remainder of the domestic season if the administrative vacuum continues. The associations September elections became contentious after six district bodies, Lower Siang, Upper Subansiri, Kamle, Tawang, West Siang and Papum Pare, alleged violations of rules during the electoral process. Their challenge led to the courts interim stay on the functioning of the association, leaving competing factions claiming legitimacy without a settled administrative structure. The consequences have extended beyond administrative functioning, with young cricketers missing opportunities to compete at the national level. Arunachal Pradesh has already been unable to field teams in the Vinoo Mankad Trophy and the Under-19 Womens T20 Trophy, raising concerns over the development of players across the states mens and womens programmes. Arunachal Pradesh finished at the bottom of the Ranji Trophy Plate Group standings last season after losing all five matches. The Plate Group also features Nagaland, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram and Sikkim.

IND vs WI: Approaching Milestones and Records Ahead of 3rd T20I, India vs West Indies series 2026

IND vs WI 3rd T20I , Approaching Milestones and Records :Indian cricket team and West Indies cricket team are all set to take on each other in the third T20I of the series. After India hammered the visitors in the first game, West Indies produced a stunning fightback in the second match. They went onto to chase the second-highest T20I score in the history of 252 runs. Captain Shai Hope led the visitors to win and scored a brilliant century. He scored an unbeaten 102 off 45 balls and took his team to a record chase. India looked poor with the ball and failed to contain the batters. Though India batted well and scored 249 runs in the first innings. The series is equal at 1-1, and the third T20I will be played in Indore. This contest will begin at 7 PM IST at Holkar Stadium on Sunday. The second game broke many batting records, and a total of 501 runs were scored in the game. Here, we will talk about big records and milestones which are lined up and can be achieved in the IND vs WI 3rd T20Iat Holkar Stadium, Indore. IND vs WI: Approaching Test Records and Cricket Milestones Ahead of the IND vs WI 3rd T20I at Holkar Stadium, Indore 33 - Abhishek Sharma needs 33 more runs to become only the sixth batter to reach 2000 runs in T20Is. It will be his 64th innings, and he will become the 8th fastest and the fourth fastest Indian to reach this feat. Suryakumar Yadav is the fastest by balls. He took 1164 balls, and Abhishek has played only 1009 balls in his career. He can become the fastest in this term. 2 - Sanju Samson played a blistering knock of 82 off 41 balls in the last game. He hit four sixes in the last game and is just two sixes away from completing 100 T20I sixes. 8 - Only three Indians have 200 fours in T20I history. Ishan Kishan is 8 fours away from reaching that milestone. Abhishek is also 10 fours behind, though. 103 - Shai Hope has scored three centuries in the last four innings. He is just 103 runs away from becoming only the fourth West Indian to complete 2000 T20I runs and will be the fastest from his country. 2 - Kuldeep Yadav needs two wickets to reach 100 T20I wickets. If he does it in Indore, he will be the fastest Indian to achieve this feat. 5 - Akeal Hosein is 5 wickets away from completing 100 T20I wickets. 69 - Ishan Kishan needs 69 runs to complete 7500 T20I runs. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories 2 - Abhishek needs two boundries (six or four) to complete 1000 boundaries in T20 cricket.

Australia's Matt Renshaw Surpasses Virat Kohli's Unique Test Record After Slamming 190 vs South Africa

Australian batter Matt Renshaw surpassed Virat Kohli's record for the most runs scored while batting with the tail in a Test innings since 2002.

Arunachal Pradesh Forfeits Ranji Trophy Opener Vs Nagaland

Arunachal Pradesh has forfeited its Ranji Trophy Plate Group opener against Nagaland due to an administrative crisis within the state cricket association, stemming from a dispute between two factions and a pending High Court case.

Bangladesh Pacer Hasan Mahmud Scripts History With Test Hat-Trick Against Afghanistan

Hasan Mahmud became the first Bangladeshi fast bowler to take a Test hat-trick during a match against Afghanistan in Abu Dhabi.

Nikhil Chaudhary: The Punjab Cricketer Who Became an Australian International

Nikhil Chaudhary, who once dreamt of an IPL contract and playing for Punjab, made his international debut for Australia in a T20I against Bangladesh in June, a turn of events he describes as his and quot;life's biggest moment and quot; after being stranded in Australia during the 2020 Covid-19 lockdown.

UNICEF India names cricket icon Smriti Mandhana as their celebrity advocate

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 11 (IANS) UNICEF India on Sunday announced Indian women's cricket captain Smriti Mandhana as their celebrity advocate on the occasion of the International Day of the Girl, which highlights girls rights, safety, potential, and leadership, alongside the barriers that continue to limit their choices. In this new role, Mandhana will build upon her previous work advocating for equal rights and opportunities for children and young people and will advocate for equal opportunities for girls to play and thrive. She will support UNICEF Indias efforts to empower adolescent girls, promote their health and well-being, and enable them to reach their full potential. I am deeply honoured to join UNICEF India as a Celebrity Advocate. Growing up playing cricket taught me that every dream begins with an opportunity. With hard work, determination, and encouragement, that opportunity can turn into something extraordinary. Every child and young person deserves the chance to dream big and reach their full potential, Mandhana said. Mandhana has previously supported UNICEF-ICC campaigns focused on gender equality and life skills, as well as UNICEFs Promise to Children campaign. Smritis journey from an aspiring young athlete to a global cricket icon demonstrates to girls what is possible when talent meets opportunity. At a time when India is home to the worlds largest generation of children and young people, investing in girls rights, leadership, and wellbeing is a nations smartest investment. We look forward to partnering with Smriti to help ensure every girl has the opportunity to learn, play, lead, and fulfill her potential, said UNICEF India Representative Cynthia McCaffrey. An Arjuna Award recipient, Mandhana was appointed as the women's cricket team's captain earlier this week after Harmanpreet Kaur stepped down. She was part of the squad that won India's first-ever ICC Women's Cricket World Cup title in 2025. That same year, she became the first woman to score over 1,000 ODI runs in a calendar year, setting a record with five ODI centuries. In 2026, Mandhana became the leading run-scorer in women's international cricket and women's T20 internationals. She is the worlds top-ranked womens ODI batter and a two-time ICC Womens Cricketer of the Year.

New Zealand Pick Allen, Ferguson, Seifert For India ODIs; Ravindra Returns

New Zealand has announced the return of Finn Allen, Lockie Ferguson, and Tim Seifert to their One-Day International squad for the upcoming home series against India, with coach Rob Walter emphasising the importance of these matches for World Cup preparations.

Ward, Doran, Hope help Tasmania hold off Abbott and New South Wales

Doran finished 84 not out, Hope 53 not out after Ward made 83 as Tasmania drew with NSW despite Abbott's 4 four wickets

South Africa vs Australia, 1st Test Day 3: LIVE Score Updates

South Africa vs Australia 1st Test Day 3 LIVE Score Updates: Hosts South Africa will aim to hunt down Australia's first innings lead on Day 3, following Matt Renshaw's heroics for the visitors.

I Always Wanted That Second One: Renshaw Reflects On Decade-long Wait For Test Ton

ICC World Test Championship: Matt Renshaw described his second Test century as a reward for years of perseverance after the Australia batter struck a career-best 184 in the opening ICC World Test Championship contest against South Africa in Durban, combining patience at No. 5 with a match-defining partnership with Nathan Lyon to put his side in a commanding position on Day 2. The milestone came almost 10 years after Renshaw registered his maiden Test hundred, ending a prolonged wait for another three-figure score in the longest format. Speaking to reporters after the second days play, the left-hander reflected on the failures and opportunities that had shaped his journey back into Australias Test setup. I always wanted that second one. I had the monkey off the back early with that first one. I think it was like that has come in the last 10 years, all the hard work, all the failures, all the success. This was nice just for me to get, Renshaw told the reporters after Day 2 of the Durban Test. Renshaws innings was particularly significant given his return to the unfamiliar No. 5 position for the first time since his recall in 2023. Rather than chasing quick runs, he focused on absorbing pressure, reaching stumps on the opening day after facing 115 deliveries and striking only three boundaries. He accelerated towards his half-century on the second morning, reaching the landmark off the second ball of the day, before continuing to frustrate South Africas bowling attack even after the second new ball became available. The innings also carried personal significance for Renshaw, who acknowledged that his previous opportunity to establish himself in the Australian team had not gone as planned. His latest performance offered a reminder of the value of making the most of another chance. I think once I took a few years out of the team, had an opportunity in 2023 and didnt take it, you probably think that youre never going to get this opportunity again. So when I hit the ball, I was screaming at it, go, go, go. It sort of all just hit me at once. You had Nathan (Lyon) at the other end, who was pretty emotional. So to see that, it was pretty special, Renshaw added. Renshaw found an invaluable partner in Lyon as the pair put together a remarkable 134-run stand for the ninth wicket, extending Australias total and pushing the batter beyond his previous best of 184, scored against Pakistan. His knock also set a new record for the highest individual Test score by a batter coming in at No. 5 or lower at the Durban venue, eclipsing Sri Lankas Kusal Perera, who remained unbeaten on 153 in 2019. Despite rain interruptions for the second consecutive day, Australia strengthened their grip on the contest. South Africa reached stumps at 27 for one, still trailing by 363 runs after Josh Hazlewood dismissed Ryan Rickelton for a three-ball duck. His knock also set a new record for the highest individual Test score by a batter coming in at No. 5 or lower at the Durban venue, eclipsing Sri Lankas Kusal Perera, who remained unbeaten on 153 in 2019. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Hardie and hamstrung Fanning pull off stunning victory for Western Australia

Hardie made 80 not out and Fanning limped to 14 not out, while carrying a serious hamstring injury, to guide WA home to a thrilling chase of 201 with two wickets to spare

ICC ODI World Cup 2027: Full schedule, venues and India matches

India will begin its World Cup campaign on October 7, 2027, against Australia in Cape Town

Matt Renshaw Breaks Nine-Year Test Century Drought With Career-Best 190

Matt Renshaw batted with icy calm until he ended a near decade wait for a Test century before the Australia batsman allowed his emotions to take over on the second day of the first Test against South Africa on Saturday. Renshaw, 30, went on to make a career-best 190, steering Australia to 390 all out at Kingsmead before Josh Hazlewood struck in the second over of South Africa's reply. The hosts were 27 for one at the close. Renshaw's only previous Test century was 184 against Pakistan in Sydney in January 2017. Since then he has experienced the downside of international sport having been left out of the side for two lengthy periods and even being dropped from his state team, Queensland, before a recall to the Test team against Bangladesh in August this year. It's a weird one, he said of the way he celebrated when he hit the boundary for his century. Once I'd had a few years out of the team, then had an opportunity in 2023 and didn't take it, you probably think that you're never going to get this opportunity again so when I hit the ball I was screaming at it, 'Go, go, go'. It sort of all just hit me at once, he added. Batting partner Nathan Lyon joined in the emotion but the pair quickly got back down to the business of draining the energy out of the South African bowlers on a hot, humid day. The 134-run ninth wicket partnership with Lyon a record for Australia in Tests against South Africa swung the balance of the match decisively in Australia's favour after they had been floundering at 124 for six on the first day. They were still vulnerable at 230 for eight when Lyon came in to face the tenth delivery with the second new ball, with South Africa eager to finish off the innings. By Renshaw's estimation he turned down 40 or more runs as he tried to keep the majority of the strike, only taking singles towards the end of overs. The plan was simple keep South Africa in the field for as long as possible to test the endurance of bowlers who last played a Test in November. That was the benefit for us, just keeping them out in the field, he said. Get their quicks coming back on, trying to get them back in their third, fourth, fifth spells. Wiaan Mulder, South Africa's most successful bowler with four for 68, said the pitch was really slow and there was not a lot of sideways movement. I think we bowled well but Renshaw played beautifully. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories He left extremely well, he played what was in front of him and it was important for him to keep the strike the way he did.

ICC chair Jay Shah extends Navratri wishes, says Maa Durgas blessings inspire courage and hope'

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 11 (IANS) International Cricket Council (ICC) chairman Jay Shah extended his wishes to devotees ahead of Shardiya Navratri, which begins on Sunday, urging people to draw inspiration from Goddess Durga as the nine-day festival gets underway across India with prayers, rituals and religious observances. On this auspicious occasion, may the blessings of Maa Durga inspire us to embrace every challenge with courage and every opportunity with hope, Jay Shah wrote on X. His message highlighted the festivals enduring spiritual significance, with devotees invoking Goddess Durga and her nine manifestations, collectively known as Navadurga, for strength, well-being and prosperity. Observed during the Hindu lunar month of Ashwin, Shardiya Navratri begins with Ghatasthapana, a ritual that marks the start of the auspicious period. Homes and temples across the country prepare for the celebrations as worshippers offer prayers and observe traditional customs to seek divine blessings. The opening day is dedicated to Goddess Shailaputri, regarded as the first manifestation of Durga. Her name translates to daughter of the mountain, and devotees worship her while praying for strength, stability and well-being. Throughout the festival, each day honours a different form of the goddess, with religious practices varying across regions. Fasting, devotional ceremonies and special prayers form an integral part of the celebrations, reflecting the faith and traditions associated with the occasion. This year, Maha Navami, marking the final phase of the nine-day observance, will fall on October 19, followed by Vijayadashami on October 20. Also known as Dussehra, Vijayadashami symbolises the triumph of good over evil and brings the festive period to a close. Navratri holds particular significance for devotees seeking the goddesss blessings for peace, happiness and prosperity.

Matt Renshaw's Career-Best 190 Puts Australia in Control Against South Africa

Australia struck early in South Africa's innings after Matt Renshaw made a career-best 190 and steered the tourists into a strong position on the second day of the first Test at Kingsmead on Saturday. South Africa were 27 for one in reply to Australia's 390 all out when bad light stopped play. SCORECARD Renshaw's monumental innings, spanning almost eight hours, enabled Australia to add 203 runs to their overnight total of 187 for six. Australia's total looked even better when Josh Hazlewood had Ryan Rickelton caught at third slip in the second over of South Africa's innings before the hosts had scored a run. Aiden Markram (15 not out) and David Bedingham (12 not out) took them to the close. Renshaw, who had started the day on 46 not out, was involved in two significant partnerships. He and captain Pat Cummins put on 86 for the seventh wicket. Even so, an early end to the innings seemed likely when the eighth wicket fell in the second over with the second new ball with the total on 230. But Nathan Lyon (27) supported Renshaw in a ninth wicket partnership of 134 - a record for Australia in Tests against South Africa. But the left-handed Renshaw played an almost flawless innings, taking most of the strike, while Lyon was content largely to defend on a pitch which had lost much of its life since Australia were reduced to 124 for six on the first day. Renshaw's only previous Test century was 184 against Pakistan in Sydney in 2016/17. He has had two lengthy periods out of the Test team but was recalled for Australia's previous Test against Bangladesh in August. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories He batted for 468 minutes, faced 397 balls and hit 21 fours and a six.