Cricket

England Players Free To Skip T20Is Against Sri Lanka If WPL Teams Reach Knockouts

Sri Lanka Cricket: England players, including skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt, will be free to skip the three-match T20I series in Sri Lanka if their respective franchises reach the knockout stage of the Women's Premier League (WPL) 2027, which runs from January 14 to February 7 next year. Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) announced the white-ball tour itinerary on Wednesday, with the T20Is in Pallekele on February 1, 3 and 5 as preparation for the inaugural Women's T20 Champions Trophy, to be played in India from February 14 to 28. After the tournament is over, England will return for three ODIs in Dambulla on March 4, 6 and 8 respectively. If the England players are in the knockouts of the WPL, then they can continue to play for their respective WPL team due to the late-changing nature of the itinerary for the Champions Trophy, a source in the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) told IANS on Wednesday. The Champions Trophy was originally slated to happen in Sri Lanka in June-July 2027 before the ICC advanced the dates and moved it to India, after the island nation was stripped of hosting rights over government interference in the governing bodys administration. Apart from Sciver-Brunt, who plays for Mumbai Indians, Lauren Bell (Royal Challengers Bengaluru) and Sophie Ecclestone (UP Warriorz) have been retained for the 2027 WPL. Sophia Dunkley and Kira Chathli are the only England players registered for the WPL mini auction to be held on October 28 in Kochi. This news agency had previously reported that the clash with matches in Sri Lanka was a major reason behind a majority of England players opting against registering for the auction and the subsequent WPL season. England could have five players at the next WPL. The decision of other players whether or not to enter the auction is a personal decision, and this is the choice they have made. With Sri Lanka today announcing the schedule for the tour there next year, it means there will be some international cricket taking place during the latter stages of the WPL, further said the source. England could have five players at the next WPL. The decision of other players whether or not to enter the auction is a personal decision, and this is the choice they have made. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

PCB blocks Pakistan veterans from playing in India

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has denied its over-50s team permission to participate in the International Masters Cricket World Cup in India next January, citing government refusal. This follows a similar decision by the Pakistan Hockey Federation, highlighting ongoing strained relations between the two nations.

NZ vs IND series: The whole idea of home advantage has disappeared around the world, says former New Zealand coach Gary Stead

The current Andhra head coach, who was in charge of the Kiwis when they beat India 3-0 at home in 2024, feels India has the wherewithal to beat New Zealand

Punjab bowlers set up dominant Ranji Trophy victory

Punjab secured a dominant seven-wicket victory over Chhattisgarh in their Group B Ranji Trophy clash in Mullanpur. Led by three-wicket hauls from spinners Harjas Singh and Emanjot Singh Chahal, Punjab first posted a massive 456, then bowled out Chhattisgarh twice, enforcing a follow-on. Despite a spirited second innings resistance from Chhattisgarh, Punjab comfortably chased a modest target of 86 runs. The article also briefly mentions other Ranji Trophy matches.

Ranji Trophy: Delhi has to be content with first-innings lead

Host gets three points from a high-scoring draw; Gujarat emerges unscathed after being forced to follow-on; Shokeen claims maiden First-Class five-wicket haul

Ranji Trophy: Thyagarajan Sets Up Hyderabad's Big Win; Kerala, Mumbai, Punjab Also Register Victories

Luhnu Cricket Ground: Tanay Thyagarajan finished with 11 wickets, after hitting an unbeaten half-century as Hyderabad thrashed Andhra by 267 runs in an Elite Group B Ranji Trophy match in Mulapadu on Wednesday. Thyagarajan, who had taken five wickets in Andhra's first innings, returned to claim six more as Andhra, set 398 to win, were dismissed for 130. He was named Player of the Match for the second game running, after having won the award against Tripura last week. In Thiruvananthapuram, veteran off-spinner Jalaj Saxena's five-wicket haul helped Kerala beat Odisha by an innings and 36 runs in Elite Group C game. Following on, Odisha resumed on 102/4, and Kerala needed just 23.3 overs on the fourth morning to bowl them out for 143. Mumbai completed their second successive bonus-point win, beating Himachal Pradesh by an innings and 97 runs in Elite Group D at the Luhnu Cricket Ground in Bilaspur, with pacer Mohit Avasthi taking 5-44. Trailing by 388 on the first innings and made to follow on, Himachal resumed on 144/3 and dragged the contest into the second session of the final day. Vaibhav Kalta (63) and Pukhraj Mann (50) offered stout resistance, but Mumbai's experienced attack eventually bowled the hosts out for 291. In New Chandigarh, Aayush Pandey's gritty 111 could not prevent Chhattisgarh from slipping to a seven-wicket defeat to Punjab. Forced to follow on, Chhattisgarh resumed on 123/3 and, on the back of Pandey's century and some handy lower-order runs, posted 335. That left Punjab a target of just 86, which they reached in 16.5 overs, with captain Uday Saharan unbeaten on 40. In the Plate Group, Meghalaya edged Manipur by three runs in a nail-biting finish in Shillong. Chasing 276, Manipur were bowled out for 272 despite half-centuries from Karnajit Yumnam and Rex Rajkumar. Kevin Christopher (3-31), Abhishek Kumar (3-64) and Aryan Bora (2-59) shared the wickets for Meghalaya. In Pune, Shikhar Mohan's 127 led a determined rearguard as Jharkhand batted out on the final day to draw with Maharashtra, who took the first-innings lead and three points. Resuming on 130/1 and still 228 runs behind, Jharkhand finished on 344/8. Utkarsh Singh (58 off 139 balls), Aditya Singh (50 off 159 balls) and Virat Singh (41 off 135 balls) all played long, patient knocks to deny the hosts a shot at victory. Off-spinner Hrithik Shokeen picked up 5-143 as hosts Delhi settled for three points after securing a 169-run first-innings lead over Gujarat in a drawn Elite Group C contest at the Palam 'B' ground. Having won the toss and declared at 648/6, Delhi bowled Gujarat out for 479 after the visitors resumed on 363/5. Following on, Gujarat were 15/1 when the two sides agreed to call it a draw. In Jaipur, an unbeaten century from Mohammad Saif helped Railways save their game against Rajasthan. Railways resumed on 305/6 in their first innings but were bowled out for 338, conceding a lead of 159, with Kukna Ajay Singh taking four wickets. Asked to bat again, they reached 176/2 by stumps as Saif (103 not out) and Eshaan Goyal (59 not out) shared an unbroken 157-run stand for the third wicket. Spinner Parth Bhut claimed eight wickets in the match and was named Player of the Match as Saurashtra took three points from their drawn Elite Group B clash against Karnataka thanks to taking first-innings lead. Resuming on 99/2, Karnataka declared their second innings at 243/7 in 64.1 overs. KL Shrijith made 52 off 76 balls with five fours, KV Aneesh also reached a half-century, and Karun Nair (37) and Manvanth Kumar (31) added useful runs. Bhut returned 3-80 from 25.1 overs, including two maidens, while Sammar Gajjar picked up two wickets and Chetan Sakariya and Ankur Panwar had one scalp each, as Karnataka had to settle for one point. Set 237 to win, Saurashtra comfortably batted out the remaining overs to finish on 137/2 in 42 overs. Chirag Jani anchored the effort with an unbeaten 63 off 117 balls, hitting seven fours and two sixes, while Hetvik Kotak made 25 and Jay Gohil was not out on 22. Manvanth and Shreyas Gopal took a wicket apiece for Karnataka. Bhut returned 3-80 from 25.1 overs, including two maidens, while Sammar Gajjar picked up two wickets and Chetan Sakariya and Ankur Panwar had one scalp each, as Karnataka had to settle for one point. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Ranji Trophy: Important to be backed as a spinner, says off-break bowler Hrithik Shokeen

Orr targets 'fresh start' at Middlesex after struggles at Hampshire

Elsewhere, Essex sign George Bell while Ben Mike moves to Glamorgan

Sri Lanka, England close Rawalpindi leg in search of first points

Both teams are coming off defeats to Pakistan, and would be fairly familiar with one another having played a bilateral series in September

Ranji Trophy: Skipper Vishnu and coach Asnodkar laud total team effort

Paris Saint-Germain's Khvicha Kvaratskhelia Season In Doubt After Torn ACL

Paris Saint-Germain could be without Khvicha Kvaratskhelia for the rest of the season after the winger tore his ACL in the Champions League win against Barcelona, while Ousmane Dembele also faces a spell on the sidelines, the club said on Wednesday.

Ranji Trophy: A clinical Kerala completes an innings win over Odisha

The host beats the weather and its opponent needing only 23.3 overs on the fourth morning to get the job done thanks to Jalaj Saxenas guiles which fetched him a 37th five-wicket haul in First Class cricket

South Africa become first team to achieve major feat against Australia in WTC history

South Africa pacers produced a stunning show on Day 4 of the second Test against Australia, which left the visitors bundled out for only 99 runs. The Proteas had a rough start with the bat...

John Simpson To Lead As England Announce Squad For Hong Kong Sixes 2026

Tin Kwong Road Recreation Ground: England have announced their squad for Hong Kong Sixes 2026, with Sussex club captain and wicketkeeper-batter John Simpson named captain for the tournament, which takes place from October 30 to November 1, 2026, at the Tin Kwong Road Recreation Ground in Hong Kong. With six players on the field and six overs per innings, the Hong Kong Sixes is built around attacking cricket, quick scoring and players contributing across disciplines. Simpson will lead a seven-member squad featuring Edward Barnard, Fynn Hudson-Prentice, Jack Carson, Martin Andersson, Daniel Mousley and Nathan Gilchrist. The squad combines leadership experience with the all-round depth required to thrive in the high-scoring, action-packed format of the Hong Kong Sixes. England will compete in Group A alongside Australia and Hong Kong, China, and will be looking to improve on their run to the semi-finals in 2025. Simpson, 38, has been a mainstay of the English county circuit for over a decade. He skippered Sussex to promotion in 2024, scored 1,086 County Championship runs in 2025 and continues as Sussex club captain, while his three ODI appearances for England came against Pakistan in July 2021. He was also named in the MCC squad for the Hong Kong Sixes in 2017. Edward Barnard, the Warwickshire all-format captain, was part of the Worcestershire side that won the 2018 T20 Blast, while Jack Carson, the Sussex off-spinner, captained his county in the One Day Cup this season. Derbyshire all-rounder Martin Andersson arrives in strong form, having taken 6 for 23 against Leicestershire in the Vitality Blast in May the best T20 figures in Derbyshires history and won the PCA Player of the Month award for May 2026. Daniel Mousley, the left-handed Warwickshire batter who bowls off-spin, brings international experience with England caps in both ODIs and T20Is, and was part of Englands squad at last years Hong Kong Sixes. Fynn Hudson-Prentice, the Sussex all-rounder, adds seam bowling and batting depth, while Zimbabwe-born Warwickshire right-arm quick Nathan Gilchrist gives the side genuine pace. Commenting on Englands squad announcement, Anuraag Bhatnagar, Director of Commercial and Marketing, Cricket Hong Kong, China, said, England bring a rich cricketing heritage and some of the most capable all-round talent in the county game to the Hong Kong Sixes 2026. The tournament celebrates the excitement, entertainment and fast-paced nature of cricket, and a squad led by John Simpson promises to add to the spectacle. We look forward to welcoming the team and giving fans an unforgettable cricketing experience. The Hong Kong Sixes is renowned for its unique format, where teams compete in a high-intensity six-a-side contest that combines big hitting, innovative bowling and non-stop action. The 2026 edition will bring together teams from across the world, offering fans an exciting celebration of the sport. England squad for Hong Kong Sixes 2026: The Hong Kong Sixes is renowned for its unique format, where teams compete in a high-intensity six-a-side contest that combines big hitting, innovative bowling and non-stop action. The 2026 edition will bring together teams from across the world, offering fans an exciting celebration of the sport. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

New Zealand Cricket steps back from agreement to invest in MLC

The decision was driven by the need to focus resources in New Zealand's high performance programme

Five-star Jansen sends Australia crashing for 99

South African quick bowler Marco Jansen ripped through the Australia batting to bowl out the tourists reeling at 99 in their first innings on the fourth day of the second Test at St George's Park on Wednesday.

Konstas 151* helps NSW close in on victory

In a disastrous start to the 364-run target, WA lost Bancroft and Whiteman along with nightwatcher Rocchiccioli in the space of five balls

Mumbai crush Himachal to stay on top of Ranji group

Mumbai secured a dominant innings and 97-run victory over Himachal Pradesh in the Ranji Trophy, marking their second consecutive bonus-point win and propelling them to the top of Elite Group D. Stellar performances from Sarfaraz Khan, Akash Anand, and Mohit Avasthi underpinned their success.

Bangladesh opt to bat in must-win match against Afghanistan

Fingerspinner Aliss Al Islam made his debut for Bangladesh, while Afghanistan made two changes

Anrich Nortje walks off with suspected groin injury in second Test

South Africa could potentially play the rest of the game one bowler down as they look to enforce the follow-on against Australia

1st T20I: India Battle Jet Lag As Tough NZ Test Awaits In Christchurch (Preview)

Their Asian Games: Days after a rain-hit draw against the West Indies at home led to the series ending in a 2-2 draw, a jetlagged India will take on a strong New Zealand in the first of five T20Is here at the Hagley Oval on Thursday. The schedule has given India little breathing space. Their Asian Games gold medal-winning campaign in Japan ended on October 3, before the home series against the West Indies began three days later in Lucknow, and the decider was washed out in Bengaluru on October 17. The side has managed just one training session in Christchurch, and the situation will feel uncomfortably familiar to Iyer. In his first assignment as captain, India landed in Ireland without Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya and lost 0-2, their first defeat to the hosts in any format. England then beat them as well and exposed their shortcomings on pitches with some spice. Bumrah and Hardik are missing again. Bumrah has been rested with the Test series in mind, while Hardik has not played international cricket since the T20 World Cup final in Ahmedabad in March, when India racked up 255 on their way to retaining the title at home. The hosts, however, have reason to feel confident. They won their most recent Test and ODI series in India and will have most of their first-choice players available for the first time since that final in Ahmedabad. Mark Chapman and Rachin Ravindra are out injured, which is likely to open up a top-three spot for Devon Conway alongside Finn Allen and Tim Seifert. Allen will be playing a T20 at home for the first time since March 2025. The explosive opener averages 35.68 at a strike rate of 184.21 in New Zealand. The hosts are also well stocked with pace bowling options via Jacob Duffy, Matt Henry, Adam Milne, Lockie Ferguson, Kyle Jamieson and Blair Tickner. India's most pressing problem is the make-up of their XI. Their spin-bowling all-rounders may not be as effective away from Asia, and India could leave out Naman Dhir, who impressed against the West Indies, to fit in both Nitish Kumar Reddy and Shivam Dube. Recalled pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar is expected to play, while a fit-again Varun Chakaravarthy could miss out if the team management opts for a third seamer in Prince Yadav. Conditions could also take some getting used to for the Iyer-led Indian team. Days have been pleasant with bright sunshine, but it is expected to turn chilly by the 8pm start time, and fresh early-season pitches could offer something to the seamers. Dew may also tempt captains to opt to chase. History, though, favours India a little bit. They have won their last two bilateral T20I series in New Zealand and 16 of their 20 completed matches against the Black Caps since January 2020. Ishan Kishan needs seven runs to go past Suryakumar Yadav's 1,164 for the most T20I runs by an Indian in a calendar year, and it remains to be seen if this happens in front of a sell-out crowd on Thursday. When: October 22, 2026, 12:30 PM Where: Hagley Oval, Christchurch Where to watch: The match will be shown live on the Sony Sports Network channels on TV, and live streaming is available on the Sony LIV app and website. Squads India: Shreyas Iyer (captain), Sanju Samson (wk), Ishan Kishan, Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Shivam Dube, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Naman Dhir, Prince Yadav, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakaravarthy, Arshdeep Singh, Mayank Yadav, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Squads Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

After Yuvraj Singh, Delhi Capitals Add Another Ex-India Star To Coaching Staff Ahead Of IPL 2027

Delhi Capitals have former India captain Sourav Ganguly as their new head coach, along with fast bowling coach Chaminda Vaas and assistant-cum-batting coach Yuvraj Singh.

Jansen four-for rocks Australia on fourth morning in Gqeberha

Australia went to lunch at 69 for 6, another 157 runs away from saving the follow-on

Can India's young guns fire in T20 series opener vs New Zealand?

Shreyas Iyer-led India, unbeaten in their last two T20 series in New Zealand, will rely on their formidable batting lineup to overcome the relatively inexperienced New Zealand side in the upcoming five-match T20I series, despite having minimal time to acclimatise.

I'd Give Him The Job: Ex-Mumbai Indians Coach Backs Kieron Pollard To Replace Mahela Jayawardene

Former Mumbai Indians fielding coach James Pamment said he was a little shocked by Mahela Jayawardene stepping down as the franchise's head coach and backed Kieron Pollard to take over the role.

IPL 2027: Former India Leg-spinner Amit Mishra Joins Delhi Capitals As Spin-bowling Coach

GMR Sports India Pvt Ltd: Former India leg-spinner Amit Mishra has been appointed as the spin-bowling coach of Delhi Capitals ahead of the 2027 IPL season. The appointment means Mishra returns to a new role to the franchise with which he began his IPL journey. Mishra, 43, retired from all forms of the game in September 2025 and will be taking up a coaching assignment in the league for the first time. I don't know about legends, but I did really decent in IPL. Dilli dilwallon ki hai (Delhi is of the people with a large heart). When the first season of IPL was held, I was a part of DC. Today, when I am starting my coaching career, it's also with the DC team, and so, I am very happy. A tiger is the one who never leaves his prey. Dilli is my heartbeat. We will try to give the happiness to the Dilli fans, which they have been waiting for these many years, Mishra said in a video posted on the franchise's social media handles on Wednesday. Delhi Capitals, who finished sixth in 2026, are yet to win the IPL title. Mishra's IPL career got off to a memorable start in 2008, when he picked up a five-wicket haul in his first match, a spell that included the first of his three hat-tricks in the tournament. He went on to take further hat-tricks in 2011 and 2013 as well. No bowler has taken more hat-tricks in the league's history than Mishra, who turned out for Haryana in domestic cricket. Known for his flighted, slow leg-breaks, Mishra featured in every IPL season from 2008 to 2024 barring 2022, representing Delhi Capitals (previously known as Daredevils), Deccan Chargers, Sunrisers Hyderabad and Lucknow Super Giants. He played his last IPL match for LSG in 2024 and finished his IPL playing career with 174 wickets from 162 matches at an economy rate of 7.37. Mishra represented India across formats between 2003 and 2017 playing in 22 Tests, 36 ODIs and 10 T20Is, respectively. IANS had reported on September 14 that Mishra, along with fast bowling coach Chaminda Vaas and assistant-cum-batting coach Yuvraj Singh, were present at the franchise's short camp-cum-trials at a ground in Aerocity. The overhaul of the support staff stems from an arrangement between DC's co-owners, GMR Sports India Pvt Ltd and JSW Sports, reached after IPL 2024, under which each partner runs the franchise's cricket operations in alternate two-year cycles. IANS had reported on September 14 that Mishra, along with fast bowling coach Chaminda Vaas and assistant-cum-batting coach Yuvraj Singh, were present at the franchise's short camp-cum-trials at a ground in Aerocity. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Ishan Kishan Chasing History As New Zealand T20Is Begin

Indian wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan is just 46 runs away from becoming the seventh Indian player to join the 2,000 T20I runs club and is also on the verge of breaking T20 World Cup-winning skipper Suryakumar Yadav's record for the most T20I runs by an Indian in a calendar year.

Tanays six-for seals 267-run win for Hyderabad over Andhra in Ranji Trophy

Hyderabad bowled out Andhra for 130 in their second innings to complete the victory inside 27 overs, with Tanay Thyagarajan claiming 11 wickets in the match

Bhuvi Could Be Key In New Zealand Series

'Bhuvi should be the first choice with the new ball, based on the conditions, because of the skill he possesses of swinging the ball.'

He Can Be Lethal: Shane Bond Backs Bhuvneshwar Kumar To Trouble New Zealand

Bhuvneshwar Kumar can be lethal with the new ball if New Zealand's early-season pitches offer swing and seam, apart from him bringing a calming presence to India's bowling line-up in the upcoming T20I series starting on Thursday, said former Black Caps fast bowler Shane Bond.

Ex New Zealand Star's Big Warning: Varun Chakravarthy Will Be Tough To Handle

Shane Bond believes wrist-spinner Varun Chakaravarthy will be an awkward proposition to deal with for New Zealand's batters when the T20I series starts in Christchurch on Thursday.

Rashid, Sediqullah Gain Big In ODI Rankings; Windies Trio Rise In T20Is

United Arab Emirates: Afghanistan leg-spinner Rashid Khan has further strengthened his position at the top of the ICC ODI bowling rankings after an impressive four-wicket haul against Zimbabwe in the ongoing tri-series in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Rashid, who also holds the No. 1 position in the T20I bowling rankings, improved his rating from 714 to 742 points in ODI following his figures of 4/17 in eight overs against Zimbabwe. His performance helped Afghanistan secure a comprehensive 158-run victory in Abu Dhabi. The 27-year-old now enjoys an 80-point advantage over Pakistan spinner Abrar Ahmed, who occupies second place, while South Africas left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj remains third in the updated ODI bowling rankings. Afghanistan batter Sediqullah Atal was another major beneficiary of the latest rankings update, climbing from 32nd to 20th in the ODI batting chart after scoring a century against Zimbabwe. Atal struck 102 off 110 deliveries, registering his third ODI hundred, as Afghanistan completed their convincing win in the UAE tri-series, which also features Bangladesh. Elsewhere, Pakistan batter Salman Agha moved up one place to 12th, while England left-hander Ben Duckett gained two positions to reach 13th following their meeting in Rawalpindi. In the bowling rankings, Bangladeshs Shoriful Islam climbed two places to 11th, while teammate Taskin Ahmed made a significant jump of nine positions to 12th. Pakistan fast bowler Haris Rauf also gained two places to reach a joint 20th position. In the T20I rankings, the West Indies captain Shai Hope is in the top 10, moving up from 11th to ninth after a match-winning 102 not out in the fourth match of the series against India which ended in a 2-2 draw. In the bowling rankings, Bangladeshs Shoriful Islam climbed two places to 11th, while teammate Taskin Ahmed made a significant jump of nine positions to 12th. Pakistan fast bowler Haris Rauf also gained two places to reach a joint 20th position. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Bell's triple-strike sets Tasmania up for first win of the season

Victoria were 98 for 5 in pursuit of 271, after Chaudhary scored 81 for Tasmania, while Bell contributed 35

NZ Conditions Ideal For Bhuvneshwar, Should Be First Choice With New Ball, Says Pujara

In New Zealand: Former India batter Cheteshwar Pujara believes Bhuvneshwar Kumar should be the side's first-choice new-ball bowler in the upcoming five-match T20I series in New Zealand, citing the conditions there as ideal for the recalled swing bowler to excel. Bhuvneshwar made his return to the Indian set-up for the fifth and final T20I against the West Indies in Bengaluru. Though it was washed out due to rain, a lot will be expected of him when he takes the field for the series starting at the Hagley Oval in Christchurch on Thursday. In New Zealand, I agree that he should be the first choice with the new ball, based on the conditions, because of the skill he possesses of swinging the ball. If the ball won't swing in New Zealand, where else will it swing? The conditions there are ideal for him. If there is a little help from the pitch, he can extract that movement from the pitch very well with the new ball, Pujara said on JioStar. Former India cricketer and ex-assistant coach Abhishek Nayar said Bhuvneshwar had earned his recall with two consistent IPL seasons for defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) by bowling in the toughest phases of the game on surfaces that offered seamers little. In the IPL, there aren't seaming conditions, there are flat pitches. Yet, for two years, he has been bowling two overs at the top and two at the back end, the toughest phases of the game. To do that, you need experience, you need a bowler who understands the conditions and can extract the best out of those conditions, and there has never been a question about Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Nayar went a step further and compared the pacer's understated career to Pujara's time as a batter in the Indian Test team. I am so, so happy that Bhuvi has got a chance because, for so many years, he has been the kind of bowler that Cheteshwar Pujara was as a batter. In the IPL, there aren't seaming conditions, there are flat pitches. Yet, for two years, he has been bowling two overs at the top and two at the back end, the toughest phases of the game. To do that, you need experience, you need a bowler who understands the conditions and can extract the best out of those conditions, and there has never been a question about Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

India's New Zealand Tour: A Mirror To Indian Cricket

The real victory in New Zealand is not about winning every match but returning from it knowing exactly what kind of team India should have for the future, points out K R Nayar.

South Africa vs Australia LIVE Score, 2nd Test Day 4 LIVE Updates

South Africa vs Australia LIVE Score, 2nd Test Day 4 LIVE Updates: After a remarkable fightback on Day 3, South Africa will hope their bowlers put them on the front foot on Day 4 of the second Test against Australia in Gqeberha.

Is Test Cricket Pinnacle? David Warner Makes Concerning Remark Amid Australia-South Africa 2nd Test

David Warner questioned the lack of attendance in the ongoing Test series between South Africa and Australia, with large sections of the stands being empty.

You Can't Keep Everything Inside: Veda Krishnamurthy On Harmanpreet Kaur's Emotional Return To Form

Veda Krishnamurthy has backed Harmanpreet Kaur's importance to the national side after the experienced batter returned to form with a significant innings during India's T20I series against Zimbabwe.

Shreyas Iyer Faces Big Test As India Begin Tough New Zealand Challenge

Unbeaten in their last two T20 series, the Shreyas Iyer-led India would rely heavily on their batting firepower to outwit New Zealand even though the relatively inexperienced tourists have got barely two days to rest, acclimatise and train for the five-match rubber beginning on Thursday.

England Women To Tour Sri Lanka For White-ball Series In 2027

Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium: England women will travel to Sri Lanka early next year for three T20Is and as many ODIs, with the two legs of the tour split either side of the inaugural ICC Women's Champions Trophy, set to happen in India from February 14-28 in 2027. The T20I series will be played at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy on February 1, 3 and 5 respectively, as it gives both sides a final hit-out before they head to India for the Champions Trophy. England will return to the island nation once the tournament ends for the 50-over leg of the tour. All three ODIs are scheduled at the Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium on March 4, 6 and 8 respectively. Confirming the itinerary announced by Sri Lanka Cricket, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) also revealed plans for a red-ball training camp for its women's players in India in January. Sri Lanka Cricket have announced the following itinerary for the England Women's tour in the new year. The T20s come ahead of the inaugural ICC Women's Champions Trophy in India, and the ODIs follow at its conclusion. We can also announce that there will be a red ball specific training camp for England women players in January in India, selection for which will take place in the coming weeks, the ECB said in a statement on Wednesday. The two teams last faced each other in the opening match of the Women's T20 World Cup earlier this year at Edgbaston, where England cruised to an 87-run win. Veteran opener Danni Wyatt-Hodge set up that victory with a sparkling hundred before the England bowlers kept Sri Lanka well short of the target. IANS understands that the white-ball tour of Sri Lanka, especially the T20I leg, was one of the main reasons why a majority of England players minus Sophia Dunkley and England A player Kira Chathli - chose not to register for the 2027 Womens Premier League (WPL) auction, set to take place in Kochi on October 28. The two teams last faced each other in the opening match of the Women's T20 World Cup earlier this year at Edgbaston, where England cruised to an 87-run win. Veteran opener Danni Wyatt-Hodge set up that victory with a sparkling hundred before the England bowlers kept Sri Lanka well short of the target. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

16 Hrs In The Air! Where's Ravi Off To?

Former India all-rounder and coach Ravi Shastri embarked on one of the world's longest non-stop commercial flights, travelling from Dubai to Auckland for India's upcoming tour of New Zealand, praising Emirates' hospitality for making the 16-hour journey 'an absolute breeze'.

India To Open U19 Women's T20 WC Campaign Against West Indies

India will begin their ICC U19 Women's T20 World Cup title defence against the West Indies in Kathmandu on January 22.

The Kind Of Records Shes Going To Smash Is Incredible To Watch: Veda On Shafalis Rise

New Delhi: Former India batter Veda Krishnamurthy believes Shafali Vermas growing consistency could pave the way for a remarkable decade of achievements in international cricket, with the 22-year-old emerging as one of the most productive batters in the womens game. Speaking after Indias 3-0 T20I series win against Zimbabwe, Veda praised Shafali's recent progress across formats and pointed to her scoring record in 2026 as evidence of how far the young opener has developed. Verma was named Player of the Series against Zimbabwe, adding another strong performance to a year in which she has made significant contributions in T20 internationals. For Veda, the encouraging aspect of Vermas recent performances is not merely her ability to score quickly but the greater regularity with which she is producing impactful innings. Consistency was something that was always discussed around Shafali, and the way she has come back, she is starting to show a lot more of it across formats. She got out when she had 991 calendar runs in T20Is this year. We were hoping that she would get to a thousand, and you see the list, Laura Wolvaardt is behind her in second place, and Smriti Mandhana is in third position. The top three will be playing against each other in December. That series is going to be a good one, Veda told JioStar. Vermas tally of 991 T20I runs in the calendar year placed her among the leading run-scorers in the format, underlining the impact she has made throughout the season. The prospect of her competing against fellow leading batters Laura Wolvaardt and Smriti Mandhana in December adds another intriguing dimension to the upcoming international calendar. Beyond the immediate numbers, Veda also emphasised Vermas age and the experience she has already accumulated. Despite being just 22, the opener has spent approximately seven years in international cricket, giving her considerable exposure to different conditions, opponents and competitive situations. Vermas tally of 991 T20I runs in the calendar year placed her among the leading run-scorers in the format, underlining the impact she has made throughout the season. The prospect of her competing against fellow leading batters Laura Wolvaardt and Smriti Mandhana in December adds another intriguing dimension to the upcoming international calendar. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

India, Pakistan drafted into separate groups in ICC Women's U19 T20 World Cup, check schedule

The International Cricket Council has unveiled the schedule for the upcoming U19 Womens T20 World Cup , starting January 21. The final will be hosted on February 6. Meanwhile, India will begin their campaign against West Indies on January 22 in Kathmandu.

England's T20Is in Sri Lanka to clash with last week of WPL 2027

England will also play three ODIs in Sri Lanka in March after the inaugural Champions Trophy in India

Queensland overcome scare to take victory after Bartlett stars

Xavier Bartlett took five wickets in the second innings before Jimmy Peirson calmed nerves

Pressure Will Be Massive: Veda Krishnamurthy Sends Strong Message To Smriti Mandhana's Team

Former Indian cricketer Veda Krishnamurthy said that Team India will be under huge pressure to perform well at the inaugural ICC Women's Champions Trophy next year, noting that the last T20 World Cups have not gone in Women in Blue's favour.

Bangladesh and Nepal to host Women's Under-19 T20 World Cup from January 21 to February 6

Chattogram is set to host both semi-finals on February 4 as well as the final on February 6

At India's 1st Nets In New Zealand

India boast of a superior head-to-head record against New Zealand, having won six out of the nine T20I series played against the Kiwis.

Bhuvneshwar Will Be 'rubbing His Hands', Arshdeep Can Trouble Allen, Says Pamment

With Hardik Pandya: Bhuvneshwar Kumar will be rubbing his hands at the prospect of bowling in early-season New Zealand conditions, while Arshdeep Singh can use his left-arm angle to trouble Finn Allen, according to former Mumbai Indians fielding coach James Pamment. Both Bhuvneshwar and Arshdeep were a part of Indias 1-0 T20I series win in New Zealand in 2022 and the duo are now back for the five-game series starting in Christchurch on Thursday. While Arshdeep has now established himself in the T20I team, Bhuvneshwar is coming after making his first appearance for India in the shortest format in four years in the rained out series decider against the West Indies in Bengaluru. He will look to put in good performances, as well as guide the younger fast bowling crop in the matches in Christchurch, Auckland, Wellington and Hamilton. It's a talented team bowling group that the Indians have got and that Bhuvi's back, so by seeing these conditions, Bhuvi will be rubbing his hands while coming back into the Indian team and playing in these conditions. He will get the ball to move around, and obviously, he gets the natural swing as well. So, I'm really excited to see Bhuvi back in this team. Arshdeep Singh, top quality pacer. If he hits his form, lines and lengths, he'll prove some real issues, especially somebody like Finn Allen, who does struggle with quality left-hand swing bowling, Pamment told IANS in an exclusive conversation. His plan for the rest of the Indian fast bowling attack is sticking to a Test-match length, constant aggression and a short ball aimed at the badge of the helmet, because New Zealand's top order will punish anything passive. I think initially it'll be almost honing in on that Test match length - that top of off, and top of fourth stump length. But just being extra aggressive, making sure they're really aggressive the whole time, because if they're passive, these New Zealand guys will attack them, especially these guys like Seifert and Allen, Conway, very good players of the short ball as well. But I will be encouraging the boys to bowl short, but make sure they're on the money and make sure they're aiming the badge of the helmet and the back shoulder, and when they're not doing that, make sure that you get the top of the fourth and fifth stump. Its because as long as they're doing that with lots of aggression, they'll be in the game, and have a chance to nick good players off when the wicket's assisting, and the boys behind the wicket hopefully will be ready with their hands nice and warm to catch those catches. Then there is the small matter of staying on their toes to adapt to various conditions, says Pamment. But I think one of the biggest things will be gaining confidence that you can run in on a lush green surface and probably bring some moisture with your boots with you into your landing position. So make sure you've got the long springs on and full confidence that when you do plant your foot into the surface that your feet are going to stick there. I've seen a lot of overseas teams come to New Zealand in all stages throughout the year, and not make that adaptation, because the outfields are lush, green, and they do gather moisture. So you've got to make sure that your springs in the bottom of your boots are there to hold you so that you can confidently brace hard and get stuck into bowling good hard lines and lengths, and then once you get through that phase where the ball stops moving around a little bit, it's remaining extremely aggressive, making sure you're using your short ball, and setting fields accordingly. Three of these grounds are of reasonable sizes, so you will be able to use your short ball with confidence that it's not going to top edge and fly out of the ground, but there are a couple of those venues as well that are quite small, and we will see top edges flying for six or something. You've just got to accept that and move on and get ready for the next ball if that does happen, he explained. As per Pamment, a Yorkshire native who moved to New Zealand early in his career and played 14 first-class and 33 List A games for Auckland from 1993 to 1996 and later coached Northern Districts domestic team, India's batters face the flip side of the adaptation, especially for the attacking left-handers at the top of the order. How they adapt to that, and how they're very selective - we know, especially the left-handers at the top, they like to hit balls for six, don't they? Regardless of who it is, whether it's the young man Vaibhav or whether it's Ishan or Abhishek, we know that they take it on, and T20 cricket demands that you take it on. But I'd be encouraging those guys just to try and make sure they adapt to conditions, they understand conditions, that it's going to be relentless in terms of New Zealand will come with a number of seam bowling options, different varying paces, obviously Milne and Ferguson, high pace. The other boys perhaps not reaching that pace, but still very skillful, tall and bouncy - Blair Tickner, Kyle Jamieson, they're tall guys. So while they're not quite as quick, they still demand that you've got to be able to play between your chest and head, and they will test them out. I'm sure the boys, once they get settled in New Zealand, but they haven't got a lot of time. I know they've arrived over the last couple of days. If they're smart, they'll be spending the next couple of days working on that type of thing, because that's what's going to come their way. With Hardik Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah both missing the T20Is due to injuries and workload management, respectively, Pamment sees the gaps as a chance for others to stake a claim. Obviously, when you lose two world-class players, any team in the world who lose two world-class players of that nature, from your white-ball team, World Cup winners, IPL winners, serial performers at top level - it's always difficult to fill that void. But what it does, it provides opportunities for others. Mayank Yadav and Prince Yadav, they have the opportunity to come and showcase what they can do in conditions which should suit them. While experience-wise, they might not be at that level, they're going to get some things that are in their favour. So, let's see how they utilise that. Nitish Kumar Reddy is another one who has been given opportunities as that all-rounder, as obviously Shivam Dube. I know they haven't used Shivam too much with the ball, but he's definitely dangerous with the bat. So, Nitish is having another opportunity with Hardik Pandya missing five T20I games here. Mayank Yadav and Prince Yadav, they have the opportunity to come and showcase what they can do in conditions which should suit them. While experience-wise, they might not be at that level, they're going to get some things that are in their favour. So, let's see how they utilise that. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Told To Be Patient By Captain Iyer Ahead Of New Zealand Series

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi can't just walk straight into the team, India captain Shreyas Iyer said Wednesday, after calls for the teenage sensation to be unleashed for the T20 series against New Zealand starting in Christchurch this week. The 15-year-old Sooryavanshi made his international debut for India in July but has been used sparingly against top opponents despite his glittering Indian Premier League form. India landed in New Zealand on Tuesday, two days before they begin their 40-day tour including five T20s, five one-day internationals and two Test matches. It marks 100 years of sporting ties between the two nations. He has many more years ahead to get opportunities, Iyer said when asked about the teenager's role in the squad. It's not as if he can just walk straight into the team right now because our openers have been scoring consistently and also won us the World Cup. Sooryavanshi has taken the cricketing world by storm after making his IPL debut aged 14 years and 23 days in 2025. Nine days later he scored his first IPL century. In eight T20 internationals Sooryavanshi is averaging just over 30 at a strike rate of 186, below his IPL average of 44 and strike rate of nearly 229. Since July Sooryavanshi's rivals for India's opening spot, Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma, have averaged 25 and 30 respectively, at strike rates of 172 and 200. Iyer said Sooryavanshi would learn plenty from the tour, with or without game time. Look at it this way: coming overseas like this will give him a fair idea of how the game plays on these particular wickets, so next time when he comes he will be very well prepared for these conditions. New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner said he was aware of Sooryavanshi's talents from playing in the IPL but pointed to the power of India's whole lineup. I think he has a huge part to play for India, whether it's in this series or in the future, Santner said. If he does get a crack guys have found it quite hard to stop him, but we've got some plans for him. Santner said conditions would be seam friendly in the opening match at Hagley Oval. India would have to get used to some unfamiliar conditions as they start the series, he said. Temperature-wise, you know, we've always when we've gone to India, it's hot, it's humid, Santner said. Here tomorrow night could be the flip side for India, could be a little bit cold, maybe windy, some cold hands. New Zealand are without Will O'Rourke, Mark Chapman and Zak Foulkes for the T20 series but will be able to lean on the power hitting of Finn Allen and Tim Seifert at the top of the order. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories India recalled seamer Bhuvneshwar Kumar after a four-year absence while Jasprit Bumrah was rested as part of workload management after he played a key part in the team's recent Asian Games gold medal in Japan.

India Are Going To Get 'a Bit Of A Shock' In Cold, Dark New Zealand, Says Pamment

T20 World Cup: India's players are in for a bit of a shock when the T20I series in New Zealand gets underway, according to former Mumbai Indians fielding coach James Pamment, citing the games starting at 8pm in near darkness and temperatures expected to hover around ten degrees. International sides have rarely toured this early in the New Zealand summer in recent years, pointed out Pamment, who briefly worked as the Black Caps assistant coach and is coming off a fielding coach stint with the Bangladesh senior mens team. Yes, it is very early in the New Zealand cricketing summer, so it's almost unparalleled, really. I can think of the top of my head over the last few years where international teams have been in New Zealand at this time of year, but certainly not India. Yes, it will be a bit of a shock for the Indian boys, when they do get here and be involved in the conditions, especially in the T20 games. They start at 8pm New Zealand standard time. So it's going to be almost dark in most of the venues at that time, and it will be, I guess, around the 10 degrees mark. It'll be cold, there will be dew, and I think the conditions will certainly suit seam bowling for those T20 fixtures, Pamment told IANS in an exclusive conversation. The hosts are hardly match-hardened either, with the series starting even before New Zealand's domestic season begins. It's the same for both teams, and I guess the New Zealand boys will probably be a little bit more used to it. But we haven't had any domestic cricket this season yet in New Zealand. So for this series to be starting before domestic cricket starts is quite unique. Obviously a lot of the boys are playing in different leagues around the world, and a number of them have been on A tours as well. So it's not like they're shy of cricket, but it's playing in these types of conditions and getting used to those times I think will be the biggest challenge, and you can tell how New Zealand think about the wickets and conditions, because they've picked eight seamers in their squad of 16 for the T20Is. It means they think that seam bowling is going to play a large part in the series, added Pamment. Asked how the pitches in New Zealand would compare with the flat surfaces India, the reigning T20 World Cup holders, recently played against the West Indies in the drawn 2-2 series, Pamment predicted a fairer fight between bat and ball to happen. New Zealand's been very good at preparing good cricket wickets for their T20 fixtures over the last few years. While it will benefit some seam bowling, we know with the white ball that if you use it really wisely in the first three-four overs, you can gain a bit of traction in the game. But if you don't use it well, the wickets will be conducive to shot making, but there will obviously be a little bit more assistance than I guess the wickets that the Indian team played against the West Indies in your home country. They've been pretty flat surfaces and very batsmen dominant, whereas there'll be more of a contest between bowler and batter in these games here right through. Where India could really be caught out in T20Is, Pamment believes, is in the fielding, which has been the biggest point of concern. There's nothing like spending time at a venue to get used to the conditions. It's certainly going to be dewy, cold, and obviously, the light situation is very different from venue to venue. I know they'll use four different venues in the T20 series with Hagley having two games, and you just can't be spending time preparing. But these days, these guys don't get much time to go and train at a venue, as pretty much you arrive two days out, train one day out, and then you play, and move on. So they have to be very confident in their basics. But different venues come with different variables, and it's very difficult to get used to it, and I certainly when I was involved in the IPL with Mumbai Indians, I used to really try and encourage guys, especially if they haven't played at those venues before, to try and replicate what they were likely to experience in the game the following evening. So it's just to get to know your fielding position, how the ball runs towards you if it's coming on the ground, and get used to the flat catches that come at different levels, and obviously, the high catches when they leave and come back into the light towers, he explained. He has seen first-hand what unfamiliar lights can do to a fielding unit, during his time with Bangladesh in last years Asia Cup in Dubai, which India won. It's going to be really important that if guys want to be competent fielders, they do that type of work so that they don't let the team down. To be honest, I haven't really seen too many of the performances, I've seen the scorecards of the Indians. I know they've had a change of coach recently with their fielding specific responsibilities. Obviously I was with Bangladesh this time last year when they were at the Asia Cup, and they really struggled with the stadium there in Dubai, where the lights around the edge of the grandstand rather than the towers. So it's all about practising and getting used to sighting the ball nice and early and then backing yourself. These guys are all very competent fielders, but sometimes concentration and confidence can impact on performance, and definitely if the fielding conditions are challenging, so it's a wet ball and slippery ground, then that can impact on their performance as well. Whatever the weather, the crowds look set to turn up for the games in New Zealand, especially with more than 85,000 tickets sold out so far in the multi-format series. Let's see, all the grounds are in previous years in New Zealand, we used to have venues that were rugby grounds as well as cricket grounds, and there's only one of those grounds - maybe two actually, that have been used for the T20 series. But rugby's long finished in those venues - so they will be ready to host cricket and certainly the interest is incredible for this time of the year as well. A lot of people have been buying tickets in advance. Whatever the weather, the crowds look set to turn up for the games in New Zealand, especially with more than 85,000 tickets sold out so far in the multi-format series. Let's see, all the grounds are in previous years in New Zealand, we used to have venues that were rugby grounds as well as cricket grounds, and there's only one of those grounds - maybe two actually, that have been used for the T20 series. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Little 'shocked' With Jayawardenes Exit From MI, Pollard Can Be A Successor, Says Pamment

Former Mumbai Indians: Former Mumbai Indians fielding coach James Pamment said he was a little bit shocked over Mahela Jayawardene stepping down as the franchise's head coach and backed Kieron Pollard to take over the role. Last week, Jayawardene stepped down as MI head coach, which ended his second stint in charge of the five-time Indian Premier League (IPL) champions, after having guided them to three titles during his first spell from 2017 to 2022. Pamment, who worked alongside Jayawardene at MI while being there for eight years, said he had not seen this development coming. I was a little bit shocked actually when I saw at the weekend that Mahela had decided to step down. I enjoyed a lot of years working alongside Mahela. So passionate about Mumbai Indians, so passionate about the performance of the team as well. He was so passionate about helping develop the players, especially the Indian players to go on and be significant players to play for India as well, which a number of those guys are now when coming on this trip to New Zealand. So, I was surprised. I'm sort of out of the loop now. So, I'm not sure what the inner workings are - so let's see, Pamment told IANS in an exclusive conversation. He also felt Pollard, the big-hitting batter who began his IPL playing career at MI and began his coaching career as the franchises batting coach, does stand out among the potential candidates. Really, other than Kieron Pollard, I'm not sure who could take over. There's been lots of names mentioned, but for me, if Kieron feels he's ready to take it on, he'd be the man I'd give the job to. But I've heard about (Mike) Hussey, or this, that and the other people But there's a guy there who bleeds blue and gold. He started his coaching career there and once again, if he can put the good people around him, I think he's a guy who would have respect from the players. He's definitely got the knowledge about playing T20 cricket, especially in the IPL. But let's see - the owners might have something else in mind, added Pamment. MI have less than a month to appoint a new head coach before the retention deadline for IPL 2027 arrives ahead of the mini auction happening in Goa on December 16. Zaheer, who worked with Jayawardene as director of cricket operations at MI, has begun his role at the helm of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) after long-serving head coach Stephen Fleming left. It is the former India fast bowler's first head coach role and Pamment felt the timing will help Zaheer have a key say in shaping the squad retention and auction picks. It's going to be an interesting time for Zaheer here with Chennai. So, I'm looking forward to seeing how he goes. Retentions and squad building is something that is really important. I guess it's your foundation for your season ahead. So, if they feel they need to make changes and they need to have some additions, then this is a really important time to try and get the players on board that you feel that you need. It is the former India fast bowler's first head coach role and Pamment felt the timing will help Zaheer have a key say in shaping the squad retention and auction picks. It's going to be an interesting time for Zaheer here with Chennai. So, I'm looking forward to seeing how he goes. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

'We have Plans For Sooryavanshi If He Plays In New Zealand'

New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner discussed India's young batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and veteran pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar ahead of the five-match T20 International series.

Bhuvneshwar Can Be 'lethal' In Swing And Seam Conditions In NZ T20Is: Shane Bond

NZ T20Is: Recalled veteran pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar can be lethal with the new ball if New Zealand's early-season pitches offer swing and seam, apart from him bringing a calming presence to India's bowling line-up in the upcoming T20I series starting on Thursday, said former Black Caps fast bowler Shane Bond. Bhuvneshwar returned to India's T20I squad for the first time in nearly four years, when he recently featured in the washed out series decider against the West Indies in Bengaluru. The veteran pacer earned a recall for the T20I tour of New Zealand after his standout performances helped Royal Challengers Bengaluru secure consecutive IPL titles in 2025 and 2026. It's great to see Bhuvi back in the international circuit. He's a great bowler and has been so good in the IPL for so long. What it's like to have someone like him in the team is just a calming influence. He's bowled in big moments so often and always is a man who looks up for it and always looks calm and composed in those moments. It's always nice to have a senior bowler in your team, particularly in those death overs where, alongside the captain, you can lean on. So, he'll be stoked and deserves his chance back in the team. I'm looking forward to watching him bowl, particularly in conditions that might swing and seam because he can be lethal with the new ball, let alone being a quality finisher, Bond told IANS in an exclusive conversation. He also felt the timing of the T20I series will heavily favour the seamers. If you're going to play against India at home it's probably a good time of the year to play them, particularly if you're a fast bowler, because they do have such an imposing batting lineup. Usually in New Zealand, that's the difference maker - the better-performing fast bowling group is likely to win you a series. It's early season here and you're playing on a mixture of drop-in pitches and traditional wickets Christchurch and other varied-sized grounds. But I'm certainly expecting there to be bounce and some sideways movement, added Bond. Bond said the bowlers' lengths would stay largely the same in the shortest format, though the biggest question is about the nature of pitches in Christchurch, Wellington, Auckland and Hamilton. Generally with the length in T20Is, it doesn't change too much. You're looking to sort of hit a 6-7 metre length and look, if you've got any sort of sideways movement and bounce in any wicket, that's generally the toughest length to bowl. Then obviously, it's just the batsmen who are going to come out and attack and try and knock you off that length and get you to do different stuff. The bigger question is, are the wickets going to swing and seam in particular? Because if you find that length consistently and the ball does move, then it becomes very difficult. So that's probably the unknown going into this series, particularly at this time of the year. There is going to be a lot of movement for the fast bowlers and what sort of impact that may have on the series will be keenly seen. Bond also sees the T20I series as a useful rehearsal for India's younger quicks ahead of the next T20 World Cup, to be co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand, in 2028. Obviously, guys like Prince Yadav, who had a very good IPL. In all, the Indian bowling attack is a fast attack. They've certainly got pace and if you look forward to the next World Cup that will be played in New Zealand and in Australia, theres this opportunity to bring some young bowlers over who could potentially make that team to experience the conditions, training conditions, and just what it's like to travel around New Zealand and places to eat. Little things like that can make a difference just through having experience here, as well as the (India) A team that's actually here as well. All those things add up when you've got a big tournament that's only, what, now a year and a half away. So, both teams have quality fast bowling groups and that goes across all three formats. Bond said the bigger adjustment would fall on India's batters and fielders, considering they have very little time to practice in Christchurch. It'll just be for India to adapt to the pace and the bounce and maybe the movement of the wickets here. The cold might be a factor as well. The games are starting late and at this time of the year in New Zealand, the weather can be pretty chilly and windy. So particularly coming off a home series, that can present a little bit of a challenge to the fielding department. It's always easier with the ball - the lengths don't change too much. But the bigger challenge is just for the batsmen, particularly when playing in this early season. Varied ground sizes could also shape selection and tactics for both India and New Zealand, opined Bond. One of the intimidating factors of playing New Zealand is the ground size. Hamilton's sort of like Chinnaswamy - to be fair, there's a little bit of similarity there. Eden Park's probably the biggest one, where they hit down the ground like 45 metres, and people always struggle with that. Even though the wicket has pace and bounce, generally it makes for a real difficult place often for spinners to bowl, and teams generally just try and hit over the top of the stumps because the bigger boundary is the square of the wicket. Eden Park and Wellington have drop-in wickets, so they present a slightly different challenge. Christchurch is probably the more traditional size cricket ground with a normal cricket block, so it's a good place to start the series. But ultimately, if the wickets are true and the grounds are small, there's going to be big runs. You just have to turn up and get to execute plans. Even though the wicket has pace and bounce, generally it makes for a real difficult place often for spinners to bowl, and teams generally just try and hit over the top of the stumps because the bigger boundary is the square of the wicket. Eden Park and Wellington have drop-in wickets, so they present a slightly different challenge. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Chakaravarthy Will Be 'awkward' To Face On Bouncy New Zealand Pitches: Shane Bond

Former New Zealand: Former New Zealand fast bowler Shane Bond believes wrist-spinner Varun Chakaravarthy will be an awkward proposition to deal with for New Zealand's batters when the T20I series starts in Christchurch on Thursday because of the extra bounce in early season pitches, despite conditions expected to favour pacers. Chakaravarthy, who has picked 75 wickets in 49 games, returned to Indias T20I squad for the five-game series in New Zealand after recovering from a side strain sustained after playing the first game of the T20I series against Afghanistan in New Delhi last month, following an earlier recovery from a hamstring issue. The side strain injury led to Chakaravarthy being sidelined for the one-off match against Japan and the Asian Games. It remains to be seen how India fit Chakaravarthy in the playing eleven, especially with other spin-bowling options- Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel and Naman Dhir- in the mix. It's good to see Chakravarthy back in. He's something that's completely different and unique. Quality bowler, I've seen so much of him in the IPL and he's been such a stalwart for KKR. He's just so different and because of the bounce here in New Zealand too, he'll be awkward to deal with. India have always just had great frontline spin bowlers. So the two teams have got quality across both sides and those spinners battles with Santner obviously for New Zealand and the likes of Chakravarthy for India are still important even in conditions that you think are going to favour fast bowling, Bond told IANS in an exclusive conversation. He also backed teenage batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, whom Bond saw from the closest quarters as part of Rajasthan Royals (RR) coaching staff in the IPL, to get game time in New Zealand. Since the T20I series win over Zimbabwe in July, Vaibhav has played two games during the Asian Games gold medal-winning campaign in Japan, as India have largely preferred Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma as their first-choice opening pair. I'm looking forward to seeing Vaibhav. He's just such an incredible talent, and he's a great kid as well. It's awesome for him to be travelling with the Indian team and he deserves his spot in the side. He was the standout player in the IPL this year. He was just sensational, and it's hard to ignore that sort of talent, not only the talent, but the production of shots from him and what a devastating player he can be, added Bond. He also acknowledged the tough competition Sooryavanshi is facing to get into the playing eleven. He's earned his spot, but there are some quality players in that squad and for Vaibhav to be coming to play in a place like New Zealand, experiencing the training conditions, everything that goes with being here, I'd be hoping that he would come on a number of tours here and play some games. But even if he doesn't, he's better prepared for the next time, as he knows what he's walking into. He's such a good player. He's one of those players who puts fear into other teams and part of him is just, again, adapting to conditions that are slightly different. But he's so good, there's no doubt that he'll do that and the New Zealand public will be really excited to see him play and I hope he's playing on Thursday night. India are without injured all-rounder Hardik Pandya, whos been out of action since IPL 2026 due to recurring injuries, and Bond hoped to see him back on the field in the foreseeable future. Obviously it's a shame Hardik's not here. He's such a great player and adds such balance to a team. He's going to be a key figure for India in the couple of World Cups that are coming up. But there's not too much you can do about injury and I suppose from an Indian perspective, it gives you the opportunity to see what your team looks like, your balance looks like without a player like Hardik Pandya, and who could potentially fill the role if he is injured later on in the year. But you've got a great player to come back anyway. I suppose from an Indian perspective, you're just getting to see a different option. But New Zealand's probably in the same boat as well. They're stacked with spin bowling all-rounders and are looking for that seam bowling all-rounder the Jacob Oram or Scott Styris type of player in the top six while being involved with those seamers. So, it's not easy. As I said, both teams have been set up pretty similarly, and I'm looking forward to seeing Hardik back on the field soon because he is such a great player, he elaborated. Bond also went on to acknowledge the difficulty of adjusting quickly to New Zealand conditions after making the long trip from India, something which Samson mentioned. Looking forward to seeing Sanju actually. He's right - it's never easy to get off a plane. You're only in the country for a couple of days, got a little bit of jet lag going on because it's a long flight to get here and have limited training time, particularly on wickets at this time of the season that are generally a little bit spicy. So it's not easy to get into your flow and rhythm as a batsman, and that's let alone acclimatising to everything else. One thing for the Indian team is they're never short of practice and playing cricket. So even though the conditions may be different and you might not get as much practice as you want to, look, match fit and the guys are in form, and they're such good players that I'm expecting to still come out and blaze away. Bond further said hes eager to catch up with the tearaway pacer Mayank Yadav, whose raw speed has been critical in Indias T20I bowling plans. Looking forward to reconnecting with Mayank Yadav, who was here for his back surgery, and spend a bit of time with him. So, it'll be good to see him in action. Bond signed off by declining to assess Shreyas Iyer's captaincy tenure so far. I can't really comment on Shreyas in terms of his leadership because I just haven't seen those games to be honest. I haven't watched much of the T20 games from India because it's just been on a different time zone and I was on a holiday. So in terms of captaincy, look, it's never easy when the ball's flying around the park and big scores are being had and you're always under scrutiny as a captain based on decisions you make. Bond signed off by declining to assess Shreyas Iyer's captaincy tenure so far. I can't really comment on Shreyas in terms of his leadership because I just haven't seen those games to be honest. I haven't watched much of the T20 games from India because it's just been on a different time zone and I was on a holiday. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Clearly Shown How They Want To Play: Veda Lauds Team India Under Mandhanas Captaincy

T20 World Cups: Former India batter Veda Krishnamurthy has praised Indias dominant 3-0 T20I series victory over Zimbabwe, describing the teams performances as an encouraging beginning to Smriti Mandhanas tenure as full-time captain. India closed out the Zimbabwe series with three wins, establishing momentum under Mandhanas leadership. Speaking about Indias approach during the series, Veda also highlighted the importance of all-rounder Niki Prasads versatility, backing the youngsters ability to contribute with the bat, ball and in the field as India prepare for the upcoming Champions Trophy. You want to dominate when youre playing a series, and thats exactly what I think Team India as a whole have done. We talk about convincing victories, and the last two games were just that. In the first game, you would say they were pushed, but eventually, it was still a convincing victory. A strong finish is always important, and its a good start to Smriti Mandhanas full-time captaincy career. It is important that you play a certain brand of cricket. India have clearly shown that this is exactly how they want to play. Its good preparation going into the Champions Trophy. Three T20 games are done, with three more left before the big tournament. The last two T20 World Cups have not gone in Indias favour. So, there will be pressure on this Indian team to come out and perform well in the Champions Trophy, Veda told JioStar. While the series result offered encouragement, the former India international also turned her attention to the emerging talent within the squad. Niki Prasad, who made her debut during the series, earned praise for offering India multiple options rather than being restricted to one specific role. Nikis ability to operate in the middle order, deliver a couple of overs and contribute in the field could prove particularly valuable in the shortest format, where the smallest contributions can influence a match. Veda believes the youngsters composure on debut was another encouraging sign. While the series result offered encouragement, the former India international also turned her attention to the emerging talent within the squad. Niki Prasad, who made her debut during the series, earned praise for offering India multiple options rather than being restricted to one specific role. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Hardik Pandya Facing Months On Sidelines, Might Not Play Until IPL 2027: Report

According to a report, Hardik Pandya might not be seen in action until the start of the IPL 2027 season.

With The New Ball, Bhuvi Will Be A Challenge: NZ Skipper Santner

As Bhuvneshwar Kumar: As Bhuvneshwar Kumar is back to India's T20I setup after a gap of nearly four years, New Zealand skipper Mitchell Santner is wary of the challenge the senior pacer can pose in the five-match T20I series that begins on Thursday, as he stated that the swing king will pose a challenge with the new ball in New Zealand conditions. Bhuvneshwar earned a recall to Indias T20I squad for the five-match series against New Zealand, marking his return to the national side after nearly four years. He was then drafted into the rain-marred fifth T20I against the West Indies in Bengaluru as a cover for Arshdeep Singh before replacing Mayank Yadav in the playing eleven. Bhuvi will love these conditions in New Zealand. If there's anything in the wicket, he'll find something out of it. Even on some flat ones in India, still manages to nip the ball and swing the ball. So with the new ball out here especially, he'll be a challenge, Santner said on the eve of the series opener in Christchurch, as quoted by cricinfo. I mean in India it's pretty challenging as a bowler these days, like we've seen in the recent series against West Indies, 250 getting chased down - who wants to be a bowler? - but he might like it out here a little better, he added. The 36-year-old last represented India in the T20 World Cup semi-final against England at the Adelaide Oval in November 2022. A strong run in the Indian Premier League over the last two seasons has helped the experienced seamer force his way back into the national setup. Santner further noted how dangerous India can be on flatter pitches, adding that the large outfield at Hagley Oval would give the bowlers some respite in the series opener. First things first, both teams will need to assess conditions. If there's a little bit in it, it's harder to go extremely hard, but we know India have shown when it's flat and good they're very, very tough to stop. So one thing here, there's slightly bigger boundaries as well, which is more in the bowlers' favour, but again, if it's flat and it's not doing a hell of a lot, we're going to have ways of slowing India down, because we know when it's flat and small they are very, very good. First things first, both teams will need to assess conditions. If there's a little bit in it, it's harder to go extremely hard, but we know India have shown when it's flat and good they're very, very tough to stop. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

'Bhuvneshwar brings a lot of experience to the Indian T20 team'

Captain Shreyas Iyer believes the return of veteran pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar will significantly address the Indian T20 team's lack of experience in its bowling attack, especially after recent series where new bowlers struggled.

Jetlagged India brace for New Zealand challenge

Shreyas Iyer's captaincy will be in the spotlight once again, while New Zealand fans look forward to a rare glimpse of Finn Allen at home

Shreyas Iyer Shuts Team India Door For Vaibhav Sooryavanshi In T20Is

Shreyas Iyer, however, believes Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's exposure to overseas conditions will help him prepare better for future assignments.

Mitchell Santner names one Indian bowler New Zealand batters should be careful of in upcoming T20I series

After a four-year wait, Bhuvneshwar Kumar is back again in the T20I scheme of things . He returned to action in the fifth T20I against West Indies in Bengaluru, but since the match got called off due to rain, the pacer didnt get a chance to rotate his arms. New Zealand will hence mark his first series since the comeback. Ahead of that, New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner praised the experienced Indian pacer, saying Bhuvneshwar could make the difference.

AUS vs SA 2nd Test: Bavuma battles adversity to put South Africa in control

The captain produced a defiant display and showcased his batting skills as South Africa recovered from a precarious 110-6 in the morning session on the third day to declare on 425-

Harmanpreet Kaur breaks down after emphatic 91-run knock as India seal series 3-0 vs Zimbabwe

Former India captain Harmanpreet Kaur struck an unbeaten 91 off 41 deliveries in the third and final T20I against Zimbabwe in Raipur. It helped India post 216 runs on the board in the first innings...

'He Can't Walk In Right Now': Captain Shreyas' Big Statement On Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

India's T20 captain Shreyas Iyer stated that young batting talent Vaibhav Sooryavanshi cannot immediately join the playing XI due to the consistent performance of current openers Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson, who were instrumental in India's T20I World Cup win.

Mitchell Santner Reacts To India's Decision Of Benching Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Then A Big Praise

New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner has his plans ready for Vaibhav Sooryavanshi despite the fact that the latter didn't feature in a single match against West Indies.

Santner: 'Bhuvi will love these conditions in New Zealand'

The New Zealand captain was also wary of the threat of India's top order, and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, ahead of the T20I series-opener in Christchurch

Temba Bavuma's Big Sachin Tendulkar Remark After Match-Defining 179 Against Australia

Temba Bavuma admitted that he models his batting technique on Sachin Tendulkar, after scoring potentially match-defining 179 against Australia in the second Test.

Score 400, But No Guarantee Of India Cap

B B Nimbalkar is the only one in the 400-plus club never to have played Test cricket. Will Chinmay Sutar have better luck?

Emotional Harmanpreet Kaur Breaks Down After Statement 41-Ball 91 Against Zimbabwe

Former India captain Harmanpreet Kaur on Tuesday got emotional after smashing an unbeaten 91 off 41 balls against Zimbabwe in the third and final T20.

Temba Bavuma Breaks India Great's Long-Standing Record, Ends 76-Year Wait For Rare Feat

South Africa captain Temba Bavuma entered the history books following his monumental 179 against Australia in the second Test at Gqeberha on Tuesday.

Harmanpreet Kaur rediscovers her mojo as India sweep series

PSG crush Barca in 6-goal thriller; Liverpool, Man City win

Paris St Germain defeated Barcelona 4-2 in a Champions League clash on Tuesday, ending Barcelona's perfect season record. Liverpool also secured a 4-3 comeback win against Villarreal, while Manchester City thrashed AEK Athens 5-1.

ODI Tri-Series: All-Round Minhas Propels Pakistan Past England

Arafat Minhas delivered a match-winning all-round performance with a brisk 59 and six wickets as Pakistan defeated England by 87 runs in the Tri-Series clash.

3rd T20I: Mandhana Wants India To Carry Series Dominance Into ODIs Against Zimbabwe

Captain Smriti Mandhana: India captain Smriti Mandhana said her team would look to carry the dominance they displayed in the T20I series against Zimbabwe into the upcoming ODI matches in Vadodara, after the hosts completed a 3-0 sweep with a comprehensive 92-run victory in the final match. Good domination in the way we dominated in all three matches. That is what we will look to do in the ODI matches. That's what we have been speaking about in the dressing room, and that's what we will look to do in Vadodara in the ODI matches, Mandhana said after the third T20I on Tuesday. India signed off the T20I series in emphatic fashion, posting 216/7 after being asked to bat first before restricting Zimbabwe to 124/7. Harmanpreet Kaur led the batting charge with an unbeaten 91 off 41 balls, while Shafali Verma scored 61 and Anushka Sharma contributed 28. Nandani Sharma then returned figures of 3/18 to lead India's bowling effort. Assessing the teams performance, Mandhana praised the batters for making valuable contributions and said the bowlers had executed their plans, while acknowledging that there were still areas to improve. I mean, batting was very brilliant. Anushka to start with. Shafali and then Harman, everyone played their part. The bowlers did execute their plans. Maybe yes, some things we can work on. We will take it back and work on it, she said. Mandhana was particularly pleased with the middle order getting more time in the middle, after India struggled to find their rhythm in that department during the opening match. For sure. Middle order, in the first match, we couldn't get going. Top order as well. It's always good to have game time and have some runs behind you, the India captain said. India had opted to bat first in the third T20I to give their middle order an opportunity to spend time at the crease. The strategy paid off as Harmanpreet accelerated in the latter half of the innings, reaching her half-century off 25 balls before finishing unbeaten on 91. Mandhana also expressed satisfaction with the bowling options available to the team, saying the management was assessing the impact of dew as it looks ahead to the Champions Trophy. India had opted to bat first in the third T20I to give their middle order an opportunity to spend time at the crease. The strategy paid off as Harmanpreet accelerated in the latter half of the innings, reaching her half-century off 25 balls before finishing unbeaten on 91. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

'Don't think there's pressure anymore' - Harmanpreet keen to 'enjoy' post-captaincy phase

After her match-winning 91 not out off 41, she said she was focused on making the most of her time in the middle

3rd T20I: Harmanpreet, Nandani Star As India Thrash Zimbabwe By 92 Runs To Sweep Series 3-0

Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International: Harmanpreet Kaurs unbeaten 91 off 41 balls and Nandani Sharmas three-wicket haul powered India to a comprehensive 92-run victory over Zimbabwe in the third and final womens T20I at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium here on Tuesday, completing a series sweep. Batting first, India posted a mammoth 216/7 in 20 overs, with Harmanpreet and Shafali Verma striking half-centuries to put the hosts in a commanding position. Zimbabwe, in reply, were restricted to 124/7, with Nandani returning figures of 3/18 to lead the bowling effort. The 92-run defeat is Zimbabwes joint fifth-biggest loss in womens T20Is by runs. Their biggest defeat in the format came against Pakistan in Karachi in 2026, when they lost by 153 runs, followed by another 133-run defeat against the same opponents at the same venue. Their next-biggest defeats were by 110 and 92 runs against New Zealand in Hamilton in 2026. The loss to India in Raipur is on par with the 92-run defeat against New Zealand, while Zimbabwe also suffered two 80-run defeats against South Africa in Bulawayo in 2026. India made a strong start after opting to bat first, with Shafali and Anushka Sharma opening the innings. Anushka contributed 28 runs before departing, while Shafali continued to attack and scored 61. Harmanpreet then took charge, racing past her half-century in 25 balls and maintaining the momentum with an unbeaten 91 off 41 deliveries. The remaining Indian batters struggled to make substantial contributions as they looked to accelerate, with several falling for single-digit scores. Beloved Biza was the pick of Zimbabwes bowlers, conceding 50 runs in her four overs while claiming three wickets. Nomvelo Sibanda, Tendai Makusha and Nyasha Gwanzura picked up one wicket apiece. Zimbabwes chase suffered an immediate setback as Kelis Ndlovu was dismissed for a golden duck off the first ball. They lost another wicket in the following over, putting the visitors under early pressure. Beloved Biza scored 44, and Shrne Mayers made 50, combining for an 82-run partnership. However, their stand came at almost a run-a-ball, leaving Zimbabwe with too much to do against the required run rate. With little support from the other batters, Zimbabwe finished at 124/7 in their 20 overs. Nandani led Indias bowling attack with 3/18, while Niki Prasad, Deepti Sharma, Kranti Gaud and Arundhati Reddy claimed a wicket each to seal the 92-run win and complete the series sweep. Brief scores: Nandani led Indias bowling attack with 3/18, while Niki Prasad, Deepti Sharma, Kranti Gaud and Arundhati Reddy claimed a wicket each to seal the 92-run win and complete the series sweep. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

India crush Zimbabwe by 92 runs in third T20 to sweep series

India Women secured a 92-run victory over Zimbabwe in the final T20 match. They scored 216 runs with significant contributions from Shafali Verma and Harmanpreet Kaur. Zimbabwe struggled in their innings and managed only 124 runs in response. Nandani Sharma's impressive bowling performance helped restrict the opposition significantly. This win solidified India's dominance in the three-match T20 series.

Harmanpreet Kaur Shatters Smriti Mandhana's Huge T20I Record With Unbeaten 91 Against Zimbabwe In 3rd T20I

Harmanpreet Kaur score is the highest for India in a women's T20I at home, surpassing Smriti Mandhana's previous best of 80 last year against Sri Lanka.

Harmanpreet, Shafali fifties and Nandani three-for seal 3-0 series sweep for India

Sharne Mayers scored 60 for Zimbabwe but they never seemed likely to chase down 217 in Raipur

Why Harmanpreet Kaur Got Emotional After Smashing 91

Former India captain Harmanpreet Kaur scored an unbeaten 91 off 41 balls against Zimbabwe in the final T20, marking an emotional return to form after a lean patch. She broke down in tears during a post-innings interview, crediting her coach and net practice for her performance.

Shami: 'I'm still at my peak, why would I give up hope of playing for India?'

Despite not being selected for the upcoming tour of New Zealand, Shami has insisted he is fully fit and bowling with good rhythm

TNTA president Vijay Amritraj confident of bringing WTA action to Chennai

He says an effort is being made to host four consecutive WTA 125 events in India in early 2028

Temba Bavuma Hits 179, Kagiso Rabada Strikes As South Africa Dominate

Temba Bavumahita career-best 179and Kagiso Rabada took an early wicket asSouth Africadominatedthe third day of the second Test against Australia at St George's Park on Tuesday.

From 91/0 To 215 All Out: Pakistan Star's Six-Wicket Burst Stuns England In Chase

Allrounder Arafat Minhas struck a maiden half-century and grabbed a career-best six wickets to anchor Pakistan's convincing 87-run win over England in the tri-series in Rawalpindi on Tuesday.

3rd T20I: Harman, Shafali Fireworks Power India to 216 Vs Zimbabwe

Shafali Verma and Harmanpreet Kaur scored blistering half-centuries, leading India Women to a formidable total of 216/7 against Zimbabwe in the third and final T20 match in Raipur. India already holds an unassailable 2-0 series lead.

3rd T20I: Harmanpreets Late Blitz Powers India To 216/7 Against Zimbabwe

Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International: Former captain Harmanpreet Kaur unleashed a late-innings assault with an unbeaten 91 off just 41 balls to power India to a mammoth 216/7 in 20 overs against Zimbabwe at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur on Tuesday. Harmanpreet, who raced to her half-century off just 25 deliveries, struck at a blistering pace to give India a formidable total after the hosts opted to bat first to provide their middle order with more game time. India made a flying start with a new opening combination of Shafali Verma and Anushka Sharma, who put together 54 runs before the latter departed for 28 in the final over of the Power-play. India reached 59/1 after six overs, with Shafali looking in good touch. Zimbabwe managed to pull things back after the Power-play, with Niki Prasad falling cheaply for nine, but Shafali continued to attack and brought up her second consecutive half-century. She eventually departed for a quickfire 69 off 37 balls, leaving India well placed at 91/2 at the halfway stage. Harmanpreet then took charge, finding the boundaries regularly and accelerating as the innings progressed. Her explosive knock provided the impetus India needed in the closing overs, even as the hosts lost wickets in clusters towards the end. The former India captain remained unbeaten on 91 off 41 balls, ensuring the hosts finished with 216/7 in their allotted 20 overs. Zimbabwe struggled to contain the scoring rate throughout the innings and will need a much-improved effort with the bat to challenge India's imposing total. For Zimbabwe, Beloved Biza picked up three scalps but was very expensive, conceding 50 runs in her four overs. India have already sealed the three-match T20I series by winning the first two matches and are looking to make a clean sweep against Zimbabwe women for the first time. Brief scores: India have already sealed the three-match T20I series by winning the first two matches and are looking to make a clean sweep against Zimbabwe women for the first time. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Bengal Beat Services By 60 Runs In Ranji Trophy Group C

After setting a target of 209 in a low-scoring game at the Palam A Ground, Pradipta Pramanik's 4/48 helped Bengal bowl Services out for 148 in the second innings for a 60-run win.

First Time In 60 Years: Marco Jansen Achieves Historic Feat For South Africa In Tests

South Africa all-rounder Marco Jansen achieved a historic milestone on Day 3 of the second Test against Australia in Gqeberha. Coming in to bat at No. 8 with the Proteas reeling at 110/6, Jansen forged a crucial 132-run partnership with captain Temba Bavuma to revive South Africa's innings.