Cricket

Heartbreak Behind The Heroics: Indian Cricketers And Their Toughest Battles

Chennai Super Kings: Under the glare of stadium lights, they appear invincible soaking in the applause, delivering match-winning performances, winning matches, and lifting trophies. But when the cheers fade, and the cameras turn away, some of Indias cricket stars have found themselves fighting far more personal battles ones that test the heart more than on-field skills. Young leg-spinner Rahul Chahar recently offered a deeply personal account of his divorce from Ishani Johar. The couple, who got engaged in 2019 and married in March 2022 in Goa after being together since their early twenties, had shared years of companionship before deciding to part ways. After nearly 15 months of courtroom proceedings, Chahar chose transparency over silence. There were no dramatic allegations only an honest admission of how emotionally draining the process had been. Importantly, he emphasised that he harbours no ill feelings. Support poured in almost immediately. Fans flooded his social media with words of encouragement, praising his grace and maturity. Many called him brave for speaking openly, while others reminded him that a new chapter awaits. In a country where cricketers are often placed on pedestals, the empathy reflected a growing understanding that heroes, too, are human. Professionally, Chahar now looks ahead to a fresh challenge. The leg-spinner is set to represent Chennai Super Kings after being bought for Rs 5.20 crore in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 mini-auction a new record for him both on and off the field. He isnt alone in navigating personal upheaval. In 2025, Yuzvendra Chahal and Dhanashree Verma ended their marriage, asking fans to honour their privacy. A year earlier, Hardik Pandya confirmed his separation, drawing mixed but largely supportive reactions online. For Shikhar Dhawan, the emotional weight of divorce extended to fatherhood, with supporters frequently expressing solidarity. Earlier generations from Dinesh Karthik to Mohammad Azharuddin, Ravi Shastri, Javagal Srinath, and Manoj Prabhakar have also endured similar storms. Cricket may immortalise their heroics, but these moments reveal something deeper: resilience. Because sometimes, the bravest innings are played not before thousands, but in the quiet spaces where healing begins. Separation pangs -- Top cricketers in divorce battles: Rahul Chahar 2026 Yuzvendra Chahal 2025 Hardik Pandya 2024 Shikhar Dhawan 2023 Dinesh Karthik 2012 Mohammad Azharuddin 1996 & 2010 Ravi Shastri 2012 Mohammad Azharuddin 1996 & 2010 Also Read: Live Cricket Score Manoj Prabhakar 2013 Article Source: IANS

Zampa: 'Probably the worst-feeling four-for I've ever got'

'I think the last three days for me [have been about] reflecting on how the last three [T20] World Cups have gone'

T20 WC: All Stats From Australia's Crushing Win Over Oman

Pallekele International Cricket Stadium: Australia ended their campaign in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 on a winning note, with a commanding nine-wicket victory over Oman in a Group B clash at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy on Friday. Skipper Mitchell Marsh hammered 64 off 33 deliveries and Travis Head 32 off 19 deliveries as Australia thrashed Oman by nine wickets in the 40th match. With his explosive half-century, skipper Marsh helped Australia finish their campaign in the T20 World Cup on a strong note, underlining the dominance of Australia's bowling attack over Oman, with Adam Zampa being the standout bowler. The game was one of pure dominance in every aspect of the game; however, this game will not change Australia's overall result in the tournament. Electing to bowl first, Australia were well and truly on their game, and the tone was set right from the first delivery of the match; Xavier Bartlett took the wicket of Aamir Kaleem off the first ball of the match to send Oman into a tailspin that they were not able to recover from. Zampa took control in the middle overs. The leg-spinner delivered a stunning ball to dismiss Hammad Mirza in the eighth over. Remarkably, Omans top four batsmen were all bowled, a first in T20 World Cup history. With the scoreboard showing 69/5, the innings were in chaos. Wasim Ali fought a lone battle, scoring 32 off 33 balls, but wickets fell regularly. Zampa ended with impressive figures of 4-21. Glenn Maxwell (2-13) and Bartlett (2-27) also provided strong support. Marcus Stoinis and Ellis each took a wicket as Oman was bowled out for 104 in 16.2 overs. Numbers game after Australia v Oman match: 5 - In the history of T20Is, Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell becomes the 5th player to score 2000 runs, claim 50 wickets, and hold 50 catches. Mohmmad Nabi of Afghanistan, Sikandar Raza of Zimbabwe, Hardik Pandya of India, and Virandeep Singh of Malaysia are the other four. 4/21 - The bowling figures of Adam Zampa (4/21). It was the 4th occasion when Zampa claimed 4 or more wickets in an innings of the T20WC, which are the most 4-fers claimed by a bowler. Shakib Al Hasan (Bangladesh), Saeed Ajmal (Pakistan), Rashid Khan ( Afghanistan), and Anrich Nortje (South Africa) have taken three 4-fers in the T20 World Cup. 44 - The number of wickets taken by Australian leg-spinners in the T20WC. After Shakib Al Hasan (50) of Bangladesh, he is now the second most successful bowler in the history of the T20 WC. 6 - Australian captain Mitchell Marsh, who scored an unbeaten 53 in the powerplay, becomes the 6th batter overall and the first Australian to hit a 50-plus score in the powerplay of a T20WC innings. Stephan Myburg (Ned), Litton Das (Ban), Rohit Sharma, Lokesh Rahul, and Ishan Kishan (Ind) are the other five who completed their half-century in the powerplay at the T20WC. 9.4 - Australia, who chased 105 runs, emulated the record of England, who also chased successfully over 100 runs in 9.4 overs in a T20WC inning 13 - The number of half-centuries scored by Mitchell Marsh (64*) in 85 matches. It was his 4th fifty plus score in 21 matches of the T20WCs. 73/0 - Was the score of Australia in the powerplay? This was their second-best score in the powerplay of a T20 WC innings. Before this, they scored 74/1 against Namibia in North Sound and 74/2 against England in Bridgetown in the 2024 T20WC. 5 - After Babar Azam, Shoaib Malik of Pakistan, Rohit Sharma (India), and Shai Hope of the West Indies. Mitchell Marsh is the 5th captain in T20WC history to hit successive 50-plus scores. 73/0 - Was the score of Australia in the powerplay? This was their second-best score in the powerplay of a T20 WC innings. Before this, they scored 74/1 against Namibia in North Sound and 74/2 against England in Bridgetown in the 2024 T20WC. Also Read: Live Cricket Score 6 - Adam Zampa won his 6th MOM award. After Virat Kohli (8) of India. He is now the second player to win the maximum Man of the Match award in the T20WC. Article Source: IANS

Conrad's SA hope to 'expose India under pressure'

South Africa coach wants to use the weight of scrutiny and expectation on India against them

T20 WC: Skipper Marsh, Zampa help Australia finish campaign on a high

Kandy: Skipper Mitchell Marsh hammered 64 off 33 deliveries and Travis Head 32 off 19 deliveries as Australia thrashed Oman by nine wickets in the 40th match of the ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026 at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy on Friday. With his explosive half-century, skipper Marsh helped Australia finish their Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

T20 WC: We Are Very Disappointed That Our Campaign Ended So Soon, Says POTM Zampa

POTM Adam Zampa: After delivering a Player of the Match performance of 4-27, Adam Zampa admitted that the comprehensive nine-wicket win over Oman in their last match did little to ease Australias disappointment at their early exit from the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. To be honest, it has been a rough few days for us, Zampa said after the match. The voice in our changeroom has been pretty quiet as we are very disappointed that our World Cup is ending so soon, he said. With his explosive half-century, skipper Marsh helped Australia finish their group stage matches on a strong note, underlining the dominance of Australia's bowling attack over Oman, with Adam Zampa being the standout bowler. The game was one of pure dominance in every aspect of the game; however, this game will not change Australia's overall result in the tournament. Australia had been clinical from the outset, bowling Oman out for 104 in 16.2 overs after Mitchell Marsh opted to field first. Zampas spell through the middle overs broke the backbone of the innings, while Glenn Maxwell, Xavier Bartlett, Marcus Stoinis, and Nathan Ellis ensured there was no recovery. Despite finishing with four wickets and playing a decisive role, Zampa was self-critical about his overall tournament. I think that I could've done more in that Sri Lanka game. My contribution in that game was not good at all. I think that I could've done better in that game. My job is to get wickets through the middle, he said. Australia had been clinical from the outset, bowling Oman out for 104 in 16.2 overs after Mitchell Marsh opted to field first. Zampas spell through the middle overs broke the backbone of the innings, while Glenn Maxwell, Xavier Bartlett, Marcus Stoinis, and Nathan Ellis ensured there was no recovery. Also Read: Live Cricket Score We have built this squad in the last few years, but we failed to do our jobs right, he added. Article Source: IANS

Asa Tribe 64 not out seals England Lions win over Pakistan Shaheens

Lions spinners restrict Shaheens before Tribe anchors successful chase in Abu Dhabi

NZ vs PAK Match 41 Prediction, ICC T20 World Cup 2026: Match Preview And Expected Playing XI

NZ vs PAK, Match 41, Super 8, Cricket Tips :The group stage of the T20 World Cup 2026 has come to an end, and now we will have more high-voltage clashes coming up. The first Super 8 game will feature a contest between New Zealand and Pakistan on Saturday. This contest will be held at R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, starting at 7 PM IST. In this stage, a defeat can hurt chances of semis a lot. Pakistan ahve been in Sri Lanka for more than a month now. But they have a major issue with their combination, where New Zealand can hurt them. The Kiwis are coming with good form under their belts, and they have played enough against Pakistan and know their strengths and weaknesses to take advantage. NZ vs PAK: Match Details Date: February 21, 2026 (Saturday) Time: 7:00 PM IST Venue: R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo NZ vs PAK Live Streaming Details Indian fans can watch the NZ vs PAK game live on the Star Sports Networks. Fans can also watch the game through the Jio Hotstar streaming platform. NZ vs PAK Head-to-Head in T20Is Total Matches : 49 New Zealand : 24 Pakistan : 23 No-Result : 2 NZ vs PAK: Ground Pitch Report R. Premadasa Stadium has hosted five games, and four have been won batting first. That is where we might see help for the bowlers. Seamers and spinners will be more effective at this venue. With rain predicted around, the batting will be difficult in both innings. NZ vs PAK Possible XIs New Zealand : Tim Seifert (wk), Rachin Ravindra, Finn Allen, Glenn Phillips, Daryl Mitchell, Mark Chapman, Mitch Santner (c), James Neesham, Kyle Jamieson, Matt Henry, Jacob Duffy Pakistan : Saim Ayub, Sahibzada Farhan, Salman Agha (c), Usman Khan (wk), Babar Azam, Shadab Khan, Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Nawaz, Naseem Shah, Salman Mirza, Usman Tariq NZ vs PAK: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Sahibzada Farhan has been the leading scorer in this tournament, and he is coming fresh from a blistering century. Tim Seifert has the second-most runs this edition, and he is a versatile batter with several different strokes. Probable Best Bowler Playing Usman Tariq will be a challenge for the Kiwi batters. His pause in action breaks batters' momentum, and he has the most wickets for Pakistan. Matt Henry will have a big responsibility, because Pakistan rely on their top order, and he can take early wickets. Today Match Prediction : Pakistan know these conditions, and they have an excellent spin unit. New Zealand have a better batting unit with an excellent pace battery. Hence, we predict New Zealand to win this game. NZ vs PAK Match 41, ICC T20 World Cup 2026, Today NZ vs PAK Match, NZ vs PAK Prediction, NZ vs PAK Predicted XIs, Injury Update for NZ vs PAK Match Also Read: Live Cricket Score Disclaimer: The prediction or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.

T20 WC: ICC Releases List Of Umpires For Super 8s

TV Umpire Alex Wharf: Rodney Tucker and Paul Reiffel will be in the middle for the opening Super Eights match of the ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026, scheduled to begin with New Zealand taking on Pakistan on Saturday at the R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo, with Allahudien Paleker in place as TV Umpire and Sam Nogajski taking on the role of Fourth Umpire. Tucker and Nogajski will be the on-field team on February 28 when Sri Lanka face Pakistan in Kandy, while Nogajski will also oversee Englands match with Pakistan at the same venue on February 24 alongside Nitin Menon. Adrian Holdstock is also part of the Sri Lankan-based officials team for the Super Eights stage and will be on-field alongside Ahsan Raza for Englands clashes with the co-hosts in Kandy on February 22 and New Zealand five days later. Paleker and Asif Yaqoob will be in the middle for Sri Lankas meeting with New Zealand in Colombo on February 25. Group 1 begins with co-hosts India taking on South Africa on February 22, and the experienced duo of Richard Kettleborough and Chris Gaffaney will be taking charge, assisted by TV Umpire Alex Wharf and Fourth Umpire Chris Brown. Gaffaney and Wharf join forces for the final match of the Super Eight stage, Indias match with the West Indies in Kolkata on March 1, while Wharf and Kettleborough are the on-field duo for the co-hosts clash with Zimbabwe on February 26. Zimbabwe are unbeaten after the group stage and will hope to take that momentum into their clash with the similarly in-form West Indies on February 23, with Richard Illingworth and Jayaraman Madanagopal overseeing the action in Mumbai. Gaffaney and Wharf join forces for the final match of the Super Eight stage, Indias match with the West Indies in Kolkata on March 1, while Wharf and Kettleborough are the on-field duo for the co-hosts clash with Zimbabwe on February 26. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Ranjan Madugalle, Andrew Pycroft, Richie Richardson, and Javagal Srinath share the match referee duties. Article Source: IANS

AUS-W vs IND-W 3rd T20I Prediction, Match Preview And Playing XI

AUS-W vs IND-W 3rd T20I , Cricket Tips :After a good win in the first T20I, India Women failed to keep the momentum going in the second game in Canberra. The Australian opener added a record stand of 128 runs and took the game away from the visitors. Though India were brilliant in death overs and started well with the bat. But once again, their middle order failed, and they fell short by 19 runs. That helped Sophie Molineux record her first win as Australia captain. These two sides will take on each other in the final game on Saturday, starting at 1:45 PM IST at Adelaide Oval. AUS-W vs IND-W: Match Details Date : February 21, 2026 (Saturday) Time : 1:45 PM IST Venue : Adelaide Oval, Adelaide AUS-W vs IND-W: Live Streaming Details The live action of the final T20I in India will be available on Star Sports Networks. Fans can either watch the game through the Jio Hotstar streaming platform. AUS-W vs IND-W: Head-to-Head in T20I Total Matches : 35 Australia Women : 27 India Women : 08 No-result/Tied : 0 AUS-W vs IND-W: Ground Pitch Report Adelaide Oval offers one of the biggest straight boundaries in the world; on square, the boundaries are smaller in comparison. The bounce in the wicket is excellent, and batters will like batting here. The toss will be important, because this is an excellent venue to chase. AUS-W vs IND-W: Possible XIs Australia Women : Beth Mooney (wk), Phoebe Litchfield, Georgia Voll, Ellyse Perry, Annabel Sutherland, Ash Gardner, Georgia Wareham, Nicola Carey, Sophie Molineux (c), Kim Garth, Darcie Brown India Women : Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma, Harmanpreet Kaur (c), Deepti Sharma, Jemimah Rodrigues, Richa Ghosh (wk), Amanjot Kaur, Kranti Gaud, Arundhati Reddy, Shree Charani, Renuka Singh AUS-W vs IND-W: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Georgia Voll won the MOTM award in Canberra. She is a powerful striker and is setting the tone upfront. Shafali Verma has looked good in both matches, but India want a big knock from her now. Probable Best Bowler Arundhati Reddy has been excellent in both games, and she has the most wickets in this series so far. For Australia, captain Sophie Molineux has bowled well and has been among wickets in both games. Today Match Prediction : Australia have several match winners, and we saw that one player took them over the line in Canberra. Hence, we predict Australia Women to win this game. AUS-W vs IND-W Match 3rd T20I, Today Match AUS-W vs IND-W, AUS-W vs IND-W Prediction, AUS-W vs IND-W Predicted XIs, Injury Update for AUS-W vs IND-W Match Also Read: Live Cricket Score Disclaimer : The prediction or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.

T20 WC: Zampa, Maxwell And Bartlett Restrict Oman To 104 At Pallekele

Pallekele International Cricket Stadium: A ruthless bowling effort spearheaded by Xavier Bartlett, Adam Zampa, and Glenn Maxwell dismantled Oman for a modest 104 in just 16.2 overs as Australia took firm control of the 40th match of the T20 World Cup 2026, at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy on Friday. After Marsh asked them to bat first, Oman had an absolute nightmare of a game right from the first ball. The first ball of the match indicated the momentum of what was to come. The first ball bowled by Bartlett was the first wicket to fall, that of Aamir Kaleem, with a golden duck, and the innings effectively started from there for Oman. The team got jolted immediately; however, Jatinder Singh and Karan Sonavale tried to steady the ship with a partnership of 24 runs, although the resistance did not last long. Nathan Ellis struck during the Power-play when he took Karan's wicket for 12 runs. Jatinder was the most composed batsman during the first order of batters, and as soon as he got out for 17 runs, it exposed the fact of a weak middle order. The pressure then mounted in the eighth over of the innings when Zampa bowled an incredible delivery that cleaned up Hammad Mirza, with an incredible flight and turn. It also marked the first time in the history of the T20 World Cup that the top four batters had all been bowled out, and it was indicative of the quality of bowling from Australia and the technical difficulties that the Oman batting lineup faced. With the scoreboard reading 69 for 5, the innings were in trouble. Wasim Ali tried to report it, scoring 32 off 33 balls in a solitary effort for respect. However, wickets kept falling at regular intervals. Australias bowlers showed consistent discipline, mixing pace and spin to keep Oman under pressure. Although Oman narrowly passed the 100-run mark, they never looked likely to set a challenging total. The innings ended for just 104 runs in 16.2 overs, marking a complete disaster with the bat and putting Australia firmly in control as they prepared to chase. Adam Zampa was the top performer for Australia, finishing with impressive figures of 4/21. He received good support from Glenn Maxwell, who took 2/13, and Xavier Bartlett, who had 2/27. Although Oman narrowly passed the 100-run mark, they never looked likely to set a challenging total. The innings ended for just 104 runs in 16.2 overs, marking a complete disaster with the bat and putting Australia firmly in control as they prepared to chase. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Oman 104 all out in 16.2 overs (Wasim Ali 32, Jatinder Singh 17; Adam Zampa 4-21, Glenn Maxwell 2-13, Xavier Bartlett 2-27) against Australia Article Source: IANS

Keshav Maharaj to lead South Africa for T20I series in New Zealand

Most of the players from the T20 World Cup squad will not be travelling to New Zealand

T20 WC: 'He's Got A Lot Of Skill With The Ball,' Says Morkel On Shivam Dube's Bowling

Narendra Modi Stadium: India bowling coach Morne Morkel has praised the steady improvement of all-rounder Shivam Dube as a bowler, saying confidence and clear backing from the team management have played a key role in his progress. The former South African player also feels that Dube's skills with the ball are excellent and useful for the team. Speaking about Dube's progress, Morkel said the journey started more than a year ago when the team began giving Dube more responsibility with the ball, including bowling important overs in different conditions. With Shivam, I think any bowler, we like confidence. You want to feel the backing. This journey started almost more than a year ago, when we gave him the responsibility to bowl for us in Dubai and take you back to Dubai to bowl the first over, he said in a press conference ahead of the South Africa clash. I think as soon as you feel in that environment, you feel that you get backed by, first, the captain, the coach, and the staff. From there, life becomes a little bit easier. You don't have to try to prove yourself. You don't have to try too hard, he added. Dube, who is known mainly for his power hitting, has worked hard on his bowling skills. According to Morkel, he has good variations and hits the right areas with strength. The main focus was helping him understand when to use each variation and how to read match situations better. He's got a lot of skill with the ball, with variations. I believe when I catch up to him, he hits the wickets quite hard. For him, it was just a matter of building that confidence and polishing up when to use his variations, he said. I think he has a very good understanding of conditions. He can read the conditions very well. As a power hitter himself, he will work out what is the hardest and toughest ball to bowl, he added. In the ongoing tournament, Dube has chipped in with useful overs and picked up important wickets, including key breakthroughs against the Netherlands in the group stage. According to the bowling coach, his ability to bowl two steady overs when the spinners are under pressure has given India an extra option. You have a potential guy who can pick that wicket fast. He can bring us control with the ball in terms of his execution. Credit to him for working hard on his game and wanting to improve that all-around part of his game. It's important. It gives us options, Morkel said. If the ball is getting on for the spinners and the spinners are under pressure, he's the perfect guy to come up and bowl two overs. It's a nice luxury to have him confident in bowling well, he added. You have a potential guy who can pick that wicket fast. He can bring us control with the ball in terms of his execution. Credit to him for working hard on his game and wanting to improve that all-around part of his game. It's important. It gives us options, Morkel said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Meanwhile, India will start its Super 8 campaign on Sunday when they will face South Africa at the Narendra Modi Stadium. Article Source: IANS

T20 WC: Catching Will Play A Big Part In The Business End, Says Morkel On Indias Fielding Concerns Ahead Of Super 8s

T20 World Cup: India bowling coach Morne Morkel has admitted that catching will be crucial in the decisive stages of the T20 World Cup 2026, as the Suryakumar Yadav-led side looks to tighten up its fielding after a series of dropped chances in the tournament so far as they march towards Super 8s where the Ben in Blue will face the 2024 World Cup runner ups, South Africa at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday. Despite their batting and bowling units performing consistently, the defending champions fielding has emerged as an area of concern heading into the knockout rounds. The hosts have been sloppy in the field during the group stage, dropping nine catches in four matches, which is the second-highest among the 20 teams. Only the Ireland cricket team has recorded more dropped catches (10), while the Namibia national cricket team is third with six. Responding to questions about whether catching is becoming a worry at this stage of the tournament, Morkel acknowledged the importance of sharpening up in the field. Thats a valid question. One thing that we work hard on is our fielding. We know the importance of the catches, wherever we can cut down angles to stop the twos, to stop any boundaries, Morkel said in the press conference ahead of the South Africa clash. But catching is definitely going to play a big part now in the business end of the tournament. Unfortunately, no catch is an easy catch, and the boys are putting the yards in and catching a lot of balls, he added. Thats a valid question. One thing that we work hard on is our fielding. We know the importance of the catches, wherever we can cut down angles to stop the twos, to stop any boundaries, Morkel said in the press conference ahead of the South Africa clash. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Meanwhile, India is coming to the Super 8s while remaining unbeaten in the group stage, and they will look to continue the momentum. Article Source: IANS

Renshaw returns for Australia's dead-rubber game against Oman

This is the last group-stage game of the tournament and both sides are eliminated from Super Eight contention

T20 WC: Australia Elect To Field Against Oman In Last League Match

Pallekele International Cricket Stadium: Australia won the toss and elected to field against Oman in the 40th match of the T20 World Cup 2026 at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy, Sri Lanka, on Friday. Australia have made a solitary change to their line-up, with Matt Renshaw drafted in to replace Cooper Connolly. Meanwhile, Oman have rung in multiple changes, bringing in Karan Sonavale, Wasim Ali, Jay Odedra, and Shafiq Jan, while Ashish Odedara, Nadeem Khan, and Sufyan Mehmood make way. Australia captain Mitchell Marsh said, We are going to bowl first. It's a fresh wicket. We respect it. Things didn't go as planned for us as a team. We'll reflect on it and get better moving forward. It is a disappointing group not making it to the Super 8s, but tonight is a World Cup fixture, and we want to finish with a win. We have one change, Matt Renshaw comes in for Cooper Connolly. Oman captain Jatinder Singh said, Sir, we were looking to bat first as it looks like a wonderful track to bat on. I am happy with the toss result. I think this tournament has been a learning curve for us in our careers. We lacked a bit of experience and exposure, but I think the boys will take a lot of positives from this fixture, and we will bounce back stronger. It's an honour to play against Australia. Rarely do we get the opportunity to face a full member side. The boys are looking forward to it. We have made 4 changes. So, the guys who didn't get a chance to play in the previous game are all playing this game. Playing XIs: Oman captain Jatinder Singh said, Sir, we were looking to bat first as it looks like a wonderful track to bat on. I am happy with the toss result. I think this tournament has been a learning curve for us in our careers. We lacked a bit of experience and exposure, but I think the boys will take a lot of positives from this fixture, and we will bounce back stronger. It's an honour to play against Australia. Rarely do we get the opportunity to face a full member side. The boys are looking forward to it. We have made 4 changes. So, the guys who didn't get a chance to play in the previous game are all playing this game. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Australia: Mitchell Marsh (c), Travis Head, Cameron Green, Matt Renshaw, Tim David, Josh Inglis (wk), Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Xavier Bartlett, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa Article Source: IANS

T20 WC: I Am Pretty Sure He Will Deliver, Morkel Backs Abhishek Sharma After Three Consecutive Ducks

T20 World Cup: Indias bowling coach Morne Morkel has expressed strong faith in opener Abhishek Sharma, who is enduring a lean patch in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026, as India gear up for their first Super 8 clash against the South Africa national cricket team at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday. The world No. 1 T20I batter is yet to open his account in the tournament. Abhishek began his campaign with a golden duck against the United States, followed by early dismissals against Pakistan and the Netherlands. On each occasion, he fell within the first two overs while attempting aggressive strokes before settling in. The sequence has placed Abhishek alongside Ashish Nehra for the most ducks by an Indian in T20 World Cup history, highlighting a rare slump for one of Indias most explosive batters. Despite the poor run, Morkel made it clear that the team management is not concerned about Abhisheks form and that there have been no discussions regarding his place in the side. He added that the left-hander has been working hard in the nets and is striking the ball well ahead of the crucial encounter. Absolutely no discussion in our team group about that. Abhishek is a world-class player. So far in the tournament, fortunately, there have been guys stepping up while Abhishek hasnt been able to score the runs he would like, Morkel said at the pre-match press conference. Despite the poor run, Morkel made it clear that the team management is not concerned about Abhisheks form and that there have been no discussions regarding his place in the side. He added that the left-hander has been working hard in the nets and is striking the ball well ahead of the crucial encounter. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Abhishek has featured in eight matches against South Africa, scoring 200 runs against the Proteas, including one half-century against the 2024 World Cup runners-up. Article Source: IANS

Vaughan Urges ECB To Intervene On Reports Of Pakistan Players Missing The Hundred

Wales Cricket Board: Former England captain Michael Vaughan has requested the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) to step in after reports emerged that the Indian Premier League-owned franchises may exclude Pakistan players from the upcoming auction for the next edition of The Hundred. The debate over the increasing role of franchise ownership structures in cricket globally has been reignited by the current controversy. As a result, this has raised many questions on whether the players' selection policy when it comes to signing players will be affected by political tensions, given the current state of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and India. Vaughan took on X (formerly Twitter) to post, The ECB needs to act fast on this. They own the league, and this should not be allowed to happen. The most inclusive sport in the country is not one that allows this to happen, he wrote. Of the eight franchises competing in 'The Hundred', four teams have some form of ownership from the Indian Premier League (IPL). This has caused speculation about whether player selection policies may be accountable for the long history of no Pakistani players being part of the IPL. Although there is no definitive proof that no Pakistani players will participate in 'The Hundred', this has created anxiety among administrators observing from the sidelines. Of the eight franchises competing in 'The Hundred', four teams have some form of ownership from the Indian Premier League (IPL). This has caused speculation about whether player selection policies may be accountable for the long history of no Pakistani players being part of the IPL. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Richard Gould, chief executive of England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), has previously emphasised the ECBs commitment to inclusiveness. In previous statements, he has expressed confidence and support for the selection of players from all countries. Article Source: IANS

NZ meet familiar opponents Pakistan in spin-friendly Premadasa

The two teams have faced each other 41 times between October 2022 and April 2025

T20 WC: Spinners In Focus As Pakistan Face New Zealand In Super 8s Opener (Preview)

ICC T20 World Cup: Spinners will be in the limelight as Pakistan face New Zealand in the first match of the Super 8s stage of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 to be played at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Saturday. Historically, the Premadasa surface has helped spinners, with grip and turn coming into play as the match progresses. Spinners from both sides are expected to play a crucial role in deciding the outcome of the match. The 2009 T20 World Cup champions, Pakistan, are coming to the competition after a good run in the Group Stage, where they won three matches out of four and lost only against the defending champions, India. The team possesses some quality spinners like Usman Tariq, Abrar Ahmed, Saim Ayub, and skipper Salman Agha, who can challenge the New Zealand batters' defence. On the other side, New Zealand also had a similar outing in the group stage of the tournament. Mitchell Santner's side won three matches out of four and lost only one -- against the 2024 T20 World Cup runner-up South Africa. Captain Santner missed the last match due to illness, but he is fit and likely to return to the side for the Super 8s stage. The Black Caps will also face an adaptability challenge as they are moving from India to Sri Lanka for the next round. However, they have to play all the matches in Colombo, which will be beneficial for the team. Despite losing Bracewell to injury, the Black Caps have good spin options in their arsenal. With Captain Santner leading from the front, along with Ish Sodhi, Glenn Phillips, and Rachin Ravindra, When: Saturday, February 21, 7:00 PM IST Where: R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo. Where to watch: Star Sports Network for live TV broadcast and JioHotstar for live streaming. Squads: Where to watch: Star Sports Network for live TV broadcast and JioHotstar for live streaming. Also Read: Live Cricket Score New Zealand: Mitchell Santner (captain), Finn Allen, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Daryl Mitchell, James Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Seifert, Ish Sodhi. Article Source: IANS

T20 WC: Santner Is Pretty Excited To Get Back To The Park, Says New Zealand's Chapman

T20 World Cup: New Zealand middle-order batter Mark Chapman provided a positive update on regular skipper Mitchell Santner's availability when the Black Caps take on Pakistan in their Group 2 clash in the Super 8 stage of the ICC Mens T20 World Cup in Colombo on Saturday. Chapman gave a positive update on captain Santner, who missed the previous match against Canada due to illness. Mitch Santner looks pretty sprightly, so I think he's pretty excited to get back to the park. Barring any last-minute sickness, I think he'll be there. Obviously, Lockie (Ferguson on parental leave) has left us. I think he's currently on the way back, and I think he's landing potentially soon. So we'll just see how he pulls up from the flight, Chapman said at the pre-match press conference on Friday. Having faced Pakistan frequently over the past year, Chapman feels New Zealand have a strong understanding of the challenges that await, particularly against a spin-heavy attack. Obviously, Usman Tariq has a pretty unique action with the way that he stops at the crease, so I mean that's something to factor in. But for us, Pakistan have several really good spinners, so each of them poses their own threat, he said. While Tariqs unusual action adds an extra dimension, Chapman emphasised that New Zealand are preparing for the collective challenge rather than focusing on one bowler. So, Pakistan is one of the teams that we've played probably the most frequently over the last few years. So, we're well aware of what they're going to bring. It's just about making sure we're really clear in the way that we want to play as a team, he added. Since August 2024, the two sides have met 20 times across ODIs and T20Is, building an intense rivalry and detailed knowledge of each others strengths. However, Chapman acknowledged that familiarity does not eliminate the need to adapt especially with conditions in Colombo expected to differ significantly from those encountered earlier in the tournament in India. I think in India we've seen that the pitches, particularly on red soil, have been favourable for batting. So, it's been pretty tough for the bowlers. The margins have been pretty small. I mean, you've seen a lot of games nearing that 200 score regularly. I think the bowlers have certainly had a little bit of a challenge. But here it's slightly different with the slower nature of the pitches. The bowlers will, hopefully, get a chance to really show off their skills, he said. With Sri Lankan surfaces traditionally offering more assistance to spin, Chapman underlined the importance of reading conditions carefully before committing to a fixed approach. I know that spin is probably more likely to play a part here in particular. So, yeah, we'll just wait and see what the pitch looks like. There is also a logistical advantage for New Zealand in the Super 8 stage. Unlike several teams travelling between venues, the Black Caps will play all three of their matches in Colombo a factor Chapman believes could be beneficial. With Sri Lankan surfaces traditionally offering more assistance to spin, Chapman underlined the importance of reading conditions carefully before committing to a fixed approach. I know that spin is probably more likely to play a part here in particular. So, yeah, we'll just wait and see what the pitch looks like. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I think for us, it's quite nice to be able to turn up to the same place and the same venue, similar pitches and adjust. So I think, yeah, certainly something that we're not complaining about, he noted. Article Source: IANS

Buttler 'frustrated' by World Cup form but won't rein himself in

England opener passed 4,000 runs against Italy but has not gone past 26 in four group-stage innings

Interim PHF Chief Lifts 2-year Ban On Hockey Captain Butt Amid Pro League Controversy

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif: The newly appointed interim president of the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF), Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani, has lifted the two-year ban on the national team captain Ammad Shakeel Butt. Amid allegations of mismanagement during the national hockey teams participation in the second leg of the FIH Pro League in Hobart, Australia, outgoing PHF chief Tariq Hussain Bugti imposed a two-year ban on captain Ammad Butt before stepping down from his post. On Thursday, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif accepted Bugti's resignation and appointed the Ministry of Inter-Provincial Coordination (IPC) Federal Secretary Mohyuddin Ahmed Wani as ad-hoc president of the federation. The development came amid controversy over the Pakistan national teams tour of Australia, where accommodation arrangements could not be secured on time, forcing players to spend several hours on the road. However, Pakistan captain Ammad Butt, in a video statement, had earlier refuted claims that the team was left without any hotel accommodation or forced onto the streets. But players have expressed discomfort over their daily TA/DA allowance of USD 40 from the PSB, which falls short of the USD 100 stipulated in PHF regulations. On Friday, the interim president of PHF Wani announced the revocation of Butt's ban, stating that transparency and fairness would guide all decisions under his tenure, the Dawn reported. However, Pakistan captain Ammad Butt, in a video statement, had earlier refuted claims that the team was left without any hotel accommodation or forced onto the streets. But players have expressed discomfort over their daily TA/DA allowance of USD 40 from the PSB, which falls short of the USD 100 stipulated in PHF regulations. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Speaking to the media after the meeting, Butt said Naqvi told him there was no ban and that the same team that toured Australia would travel to Egypt. Article Source: IANS

Super 8 Showdown: Heavyweights Collide As T20 WC 2026 Enters Decisive Phase

Pallekele International Cricket Stadium: The 10th edition of the ICC Mens T20 World Cup now shifts gears into its most compelling chapter -- the Super 8s. After weeks of high-voltage contests, narrow escapes and headline-grabbing upsets, the 20-team spectacle has been trimmed to eight contenders. From February 21 to March 1, the race for semi-final berths will intensify in a single round-robin battle across two fiercely competitive groups. Pakistan will take on New Zealand in the opening match of the Super Eights phase of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup in Colombo, while reigning champions India face South Africa in a rematch of the thrilling 2024 title decider. Seven of the eight pre-seeded sides have justified their rankings by progressing, but the stage also features one stirring underdog story; Zimbabwe, who forced their way into the elite bracket with a fearless campaign. Group 1: India, Zimbabwe, West Indies, South Africa Co-hosts India headline Group 1 and will lock horns with two other group toppers, the ever-dangerous West Indies cricket team and the resurgent South Africa national cricket team. Zimbabwe replacing pre-tournament favourites Australia to complete the quartet. Zimbabwe have emerged as the surprise package of the tournament, riding momentum and belief into the Super 8s. Their fearless brand of cricket now faces its sternest examination. Indias clash with South Africa on February 22 in Ahmedabad promises early fireworks, while their March 1 showdown against the West Indies in Kolkata could well determine semifinal destiny. Group 2: Old rivals, new stakes Pakistan, Sri Lanka, England, New Zealand If Group 1 is about power and unpredictability, Group 2 is steeped in rivalry and pedigree. The mercurial Pakistan national cricket team shares space with two-time champions (2010 & 2022) England, perennial dark horses New Zealand and a rejuvenated Sri Lanka. Opening the Super 8s on February 21, New Zealand and Pakistan will set the tone in Colombo. England and Sri Lanka renew hostilities a day later in Kandy, while the EnglandPakistan encounter on February 24 looms as a blockbuster in what could be the groups defining fixture. The Format: No second chances Each group will play in a single round-robin format, meaning every side gets three matches. Only the top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals, leaving little margin for error. The Format: No second chances Also Read: Live Cricket Score Venues across the subcontinent: Narendra Modi Stadium, R. Premadasa Stadium, Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Eden Gardens, Wankhede Stadium, MA Chidambaram Stadium and Arun Jaitley Stadium. Article Source: IANS

T20 WC: 'Their Best Is Yet To Come,' Says Sanjay Bangar On India's Campaign

T20 World Cup: Former India batter and expert Sanjay Bangar believes that the Indian cricket team is yet to hit top gear in the ongoing ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. Bangar said Indias unbeaten group-stage run has been steady rather than dominant, but stressed that the bigger positive is that the teams best cricket is still to come at the tough phase of the competition. Its been a steady start. Not quite the kind we were expecting, because the expectations were sky-high, and thats where India, not necessarily bulldozing opponents in those games, can be seen as a team that played slightly under par. However, the good thing is that their best is yet to come, Bangar told Jio Hotstar. Another positive aspect is that all the players have had a chance to feature in the playing XI, which augurs well in case there are any injury concerns later in the tournament. All the players are match-ready. If there is one department where they would want to improve, it would be catching, because we saw a few chances being dropped against Pakistan and the Netherlands, Bangar added. India have been placed in a tough group that includes 2024 runner-up South Africa, two-time champions West Indies, and Zimbabwe. As unbeaten India gear up to face strong teams in the next phase of the tournament, Bangar highlighted three players who he believes will play a decisive role in Indias campaign. From here on, three players who are going to be extremely critical to Indias journey in this T20 World Cup are the men in form. Thats where I feel Ishan Kishan, given his batting form and the lack of runs from Abhishek Sharma, becomes crucial. The onus is now on Kishan to provide those explosive starts. So, he is player number one, he said. As unbeaten India gear up to face strong teams in the next phase of the tournament, Bangar highlighted three players who he believes will play a decisive role in Indias campaign. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India will start their campaign in the Super 8s on Sunday when they face South Africa at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. They will play their next match against Zimbabwe on Thursday at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. The defending champions will play their last match in the Super 8s on March 1 against the West Indies at the Eden Gardens Stadium in Kolkata. Article Source: IANS

Zimbabwe Surprise As T20 World Cup Super Eights Begin Without Australia

Pakistan and New Zealand will clash in Colombo on Saturday as the second Super Eights phase of the T20 World Cup kicks off without former champions Australia, who shockingly failed to make it out of their group. Instead, surprise packages Zimbabwe, who did not even qualify in 2024, topped Group B after a stunning unbeaten campaign where they not only beat Australia but also co-hosts Sri Lanka. An injury-depleted Australia endured a chaotic campaign and failed to make the second phase of the T20 World Cup for the first time since 2009. Australia's acerbic media did not hold back in their criticism, citing selection stuff-ups and shambolic preparations, including a 3-0 pre-tournament series loss in Pakistan, for the embarrassment. Australia coach Andrew McDonald admitted his players were devastated but any inquest into the failure would only begin when we exit the shores here. India, the world number one-ranked T20 side, are hot favourites to retain their crown on home soil. However, in the second round they face a tough rematch of the 2024 final against an in-form South Africa in Ahmedabad at a packed 130,000-capacity Narendra Modi stadium on Sunday. Both teams came through the first round phase with four wins from four. India are on a 12-match unbeaten run at the T20 World Cup, stretching back to their defeat in the semi-final against eventual winners England in 2022. No team has won back-to-back T20 World Cups or lifted the trophy on home soil, and India have the hopes of hundreds of million of cricket-obsessed fans on their shoulders. But India have not been consistent and have a problem at the top of the order with their number one-ranked batter Abhishek Sharma recording three consecutive ducks. Their batting has looked shaky and India were 77-6 against the United States before coming through to win. Also in Super Eights Group 1 are Zimbabwe and the West Indies, who meet in Mumbai on Monday, with all that group's games being hosted in India. - England yet to fire - The West Indies toppled England convincingly in the group phase and the two-time champions have all-round strength in depth. They won the T20 World Cup the last time it was hosted in India, in 2016, and have started in clinical fashion, winning all four group games. They will be extremely wary of Zimbabwe, whose colourful band of travelling supporters have had plenty to cheer so far. Even a washout against Ireland could not dampen their spirits. In Sri Lanka, Group 2 pits the co-hosts against England, Pakistan and New Zealand. The top two from each group will advance to the semi-finals. Pakistan were the last team to secure their berth. They did so by beating Namibia by 102 runs, with captain Salman Agha calling it a complete performance as they bounced back from a group defeat to bitter rivals India. Another pre-tournament fancy, England stumbled through their group matches in Mumbai and Kolkata, losing to the only Test-playing side they faced, the West Indies. Harry Brook's side were unconvincing in wins against minnows Nepal, Scotland and finally Italy, who were making their World Cup debut. But they return to a happy hunting ground in Kandy to face Sri Lanka on Sunday at a venue where England swept a T20 series 3-0 this month, with Sam Curran taking a hat-trick along the way. Their top order needs to find form, with explosive openers Jos Buttler and Phil Salt yet to make a telling score and Brook failing to fire. Sri Lanka have also been hot and cold. Pathum Nissanka scored a superb century on Monday to all but end Australia's tournament. Also Read: Live Cricket Score But they lost to Zimbabwe in their final group game, although Nissanka was in the runs again with 62.

Jacob Bethell Insists There's 'Fire' In Lacklustre England At T20 World Cup

England still have fire burning in them ahead of the T20 World Cup Super Eights, Jacob Bethell said Friday, admitting that Harry Brook's side had been below par during a lacklustre group campaign. One of the pre-tournament fancies behind hot favourites India, England stumbled through their group matches. The 2022 champions lost comfortably to the only Test-playing side they faced, the West Indies, and were unconvincing in wins against associate nations Nepal, Scotland and Italy. I think there's definitely a little fire in all of us to kind of really go out there and push the players to the top of their performances, Bethell told reporters. Brook's side have returned to their happy hunting ground in Kandy after playing all their group matches in India, at Mumbai and Kolkata. On Sunday England will kick off their Super Eights campaign against co-hosts Sri Lanka at the venue where they swept a T20 series 3-0 this month. We're coming back to conditions that were foreign a few weeks ago, we then got to know him over three games here, said the left-handed Bethell, who bats a number three. We beat them 3-0, so I think we're definitely coming back to this part of the world with a lot of confidence. Bethell said he had watched a lot of matches on TV during the tournament and had been impressed by Sri Lanka's Pathum Nissanka. The opening batsman scored the first century of this T20 World Cup as Sri Lanka beat Australia. Bethell admitted Nissanka would be dangerous on Sunday. I thought Nissanka played unbelievably, said Bethell. You know, he actually got off to a few flyers against us. But that really showed what he could do. The 22-year-old said it was important not to dwell on England's stuttering group stage campaign and move on. I think everyone had the same mindset of, all right, the main thing is just to get through to Super Eights, said Bethell. Effectively a new mini-tournament now begins, with Sri Lanka, Pakistan and New Zealand to face. Only two will progress to the semi-finals. So now we're here, then this is where the proper competition starts, said Bethell. Bethell is England's top run scorer with 143 at an average of 35.75 with one fifty in their four matches to date. Explosive openers Phil Salt and Jos Buttler have failed to fire so far, as has captain Brook. Bethell is confident that will change and England's much-vaunted batting line-up will soon be back to their destructive best. I think everyone just has that underlying feeling that we're going to turn that corner, he said. We're winning games of cricket and we're not firing. Also Read: Live Cricket Score So imagine when we do.

Romario Shepherd Hat-Trick To Samra Ton: 5 Top T20 World Cup Performances So Far

Cricket's T20 World Cup moves into the Super Eights stage on Saturday after two weeks of intense action in the 20-team tournament in India and Sri Lanka. AFP Sport selects five outstanding individual performances during the group stage. - Shepherd hat-trick - West Indies pace bowler Romario Shepherd took the first hat-trick of the tournament as he ripped out Scotland's tail in his team's opening win. Scotland were in with a chance at 133-5 after 16 overs, chasing 183, when captain Shai Hope tossed the ball to Shepherd. The result was devastating: Shepherd removed Matthew Cross, Michael Leask, Oliver Davidson and Safyaan Sharif for no run in five balls. Scotland had no way back from 133-9 and Shepherd finished with 5-20 from his three overs. - Suryakumar power - India were in deep trouble at 77-6 in their opening group match against the USA before skipper Suryakumar Yadav hit an unbeaten 84 off 49 balls to rescue his team. Suryakumar rebuilt before unleashing his trademark tumbling scoops, ramps and sweeps in a remarkable innings that had the 35,000 capacity crowd on their feet at Mumbai's Wankhede stadium. He reached his fifty off 36 balls before launching a late assault, hitting four sixes and 10 fours in all. Suryakumar was brutal off the final over from Saurabh Netravalkar, hitting two tumbling sixes and two fours as it disappeared for 21 to take India 161-9 which they were able to defend. - Muzarabani heroics - Zimbabwe's giant pace bowler Blessing Muzarabani registered his T20 best of 4-17 as they beat Australia in the biggest upset of the group phase. The 2.03 metres (6ft 8in) Muzarabani extracted pace and bounce from the pitch in Colombo to remove opener Josh Inglis (8) and the dangerous power hitter Tim David for a duck. Matt Renshaw, on 65, was anchoring Australia's chase when Muzarabani struck again, letting out a roar and flexing his muscles after having the Australian caught at mid-off. He wasn't finished there and claimed Adam Zampa's wicket as Australia were shot out for 146, a shock result which led to their eventual exit. - Nissanka's century - Sri Lanka's Pathum Nissanka said it was a dream to hit the first century of the tournament, which inflicted a second defeat on the 2021 champions Australia. Nissanka reached his hundred off 52 balls at a packed stadium in Kandy as Sri Lanka comfortably chased down their 182 target with two overs to spare to win by eight wickets. Nissanka's second T20 international ton was laced with 10 fours as Sri Lanka clinched their Super Eights spot. - Samra's record - Canada's 19-year-old opening batsman Yuvraj Samra became the first player from an associate nation to score a T20 World Cup century -- and also the youngest in the history of the tournament. Named after former India all-round great Yuvraj Singh, the left-hander struck 11 fours and six sixes in scoring 110 in 65 balls against New Zealand, the highest individual knock of the tournament so far. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Canada lost the match but Samra said: Every single day, I dreamed about scoring a hundred on this stage. To do it here, in my first appearance, and as the youngest player in this World Cup, it's truly a dream come true.

ECB push back at Pakistan 'shadow-ban' reports ahead of Hundred auction

More than 50 Pakistani players have registered for Piccadilly event in March, out of 950 players

Former India Cricketers Share Top 4 Predictions For T20 WC

T20 World Cup: Former Indian cricketers have predicted the semi-finalists of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026 ahead of the start of the Super 8s , which will commence on Saturday with Pakistan taking on New Zealand at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. Eight teams have been placed in two groups of four. All the teams will play three matches against other teams in their group, with the top 2 teams from each group advancing to the semi-finals. Defending champions India, 2024 runner-ups South Africa, two-time champions West Indies and Zimbabwe are in Group A. While the 2009 champions, Pakistan, the 2014 champions, Sri Lanka, two-time winners England, and New Zealand are in Group B. In a video released by Star Sports on Friday, India's Test great Cheteshwar Pujara picked India, South Africa, Sri Lanka and New Zealand for the top four. While Mohammad Kaif opted for India, South Africa, England and New Zealand for the next stage. India's highest wicket-taking spinner in T20I, Yuzvendra Chahal, picked India, South Africa, England and New Zealand to reach the top four, while fomrer pacer Varun Aaron made the boldest call, picking India, West Indies, England and Pakistan, notably leaving out both South Africa and New Zealand. Former coach Sanjay Banger made some interesting picks, going with Pakistan, India, South Africa and Sri Lanka. However, former cricketer Saba Karim went with India, South Africa, England and Sri Lanka as his semi-finalists. Due to pre-seedings done before the start of the tournament, all the table toppers from the group stage have come in the same group A. While the second number of teams are in Group B. Former coach Sanjay Banger made some interesting picks, going with Pakistan, India, South Africa and Sri Lanka. However, former cricketer Saba Karim went with India, South Africa, England and Sri Lanka as his semi-finalists. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Defending champions will play their last match in the Super8s on March 1 against West Indies at the Eden Gardens Stadium in Kolkata. Article Source: IANS

'I Wont Bat 15 Overs To Correct Poor Form And Ignore The Game': Jos Buttler

T20 World Cup: England captain Jos Buttler has dismissed suggestions that he should curb his natural game to overcome his lean patch in the ongoing T20 World Cup, insisting he will not bat merely to occupy the crease at the expense of the teams needs. Buttler, widely regarded as Englands finest white-ball batter, is enduring a difficult run of form, having failed to register a half-century in his last 14 international innings across ODIs and T20Is with a highest score of 39. T20 is one of those games that asks you to keep making plays. There are times when youve maybe been out of form in a Test match with the batting coach, who might say just rein it in for a bit and try to bat for an hour and it will come back to you. So by hook or by crook, bat for an hour. But in T20s, youve got to keep playing the scoreboard; if youre chasing 10 in an over youve got to play accordingly. I saw Nasser say, just bat for 15 overs,' and I would love to just bat for 15 overs but I dont want to bat for 15 overs just for myself and ignore the game. Youve got to still play the game, Buttler said on the For the Love of Cricket podcast. Buttler managed to score just 26 and 21 against Nepal and the West Indies in Mumbai and then two scores of three in Kolkata against Scotland and Italy in the T20 World Cup group games as England moved into the Super 8 stage. A bit frustrating so far, the game just keeps challenging you, no matter what stage of your career youre at, theres always something challenging you. Ive been through lots of patches of poor form over 15 years in all different formats; its always the same things you come back to at the end, which is stand still, watch the ball and trust yourself, he added. The former captain also said that he will not change his batting order and face the challenge by himself. The only person who can score my runs is myself. Im not going to score them by hiding away or sending anyone else out; Ive got to put my own shirt on, mark the middle, and off we go again. It always comes back at some point, so looking forward to the next opportunity. Buttler also showered his love for Mumbai, where England played their first two World Cup matches. Mumbai, I think, is a city I really enjoy. There are some really good restaurants to get out to. There's lots going on. It's obviously busy and hectic, but that's all part of the fun of India, he said. The only person who can score my runs is myself. Im not going to score them by hiding away or sending anyone else out; Ive got to put my own shirt on, mark the middle, and off we go again. It always comes back at some point, so looking forward to the next opportunity. Also Read: Live Cricket Score England have qualified for the Super 8 stage, where they will play all their matches in Sri Lanka. The two-time champions will start their Super8s round by taking out co-hosts Sri Lanka at the Pallekele International Stadium on Sunday. Article Source: IANS

Radha's All-around Effort Guides India To Women's Asia Cup Rising Stars Final

Asia Cup Rising Stars: Captain Radha Yadav delivered a sensational all-round performance to power India A to a five-wicket win over Sri Lanka A in the first semi-final of the ACC Women's Asia Cup Rising Stars 2026 at the Terdthai Cricket Ground on Friday, sealing their place in the final in style. After India were put to bowl first, Radha's four-fer helped India A bowl out Sri Lanka A for just 118 runs in 19.4 overs. In response, India chased down the target in just 13.3 overs for the loss of five wickets, courtesy of Dinesh Vrinda's 42 off 20 and Radha's unbeaten 31. Coming in to bat after winning the toss, Sri Lanka openers Hansima Karunaratne and Sanjana Kavindi got off to a brisk start, scoring 36 runs in just four overs, but the team lost back-to-back wickets in the next two overs. Sanjana forged a small partnership of 28 runs with Sathya Sandeepani to stabilise the innings, but the pair could not last long, as the former was caught for 31 in the 11th over. Sandeepani was then sent to the pavilion in the 13th over. After losing both their set batters, Sri Lanka suffered a batting collapsed as India took back-to-back wickets, with Radha leading from the front, supported by Prema Rawat and Tanuja Kanwer, who took two wickets each. Radha finished with excellent figures of 4-19. Chasing a modest total, India started slowly and scored 26 runs in four overs. They lost the first wicket in the fifth over, with Nandini Kashyap getting bowled after scoring 13 runs off 16 balls. Young batter Anushka Sharma, who came in to bat at number three, took the pressure off after the early wicket as she smashed five fours in the next two overs. Opener Vrinda, who looked in great touch, was run out due to a mix up in the ninth over after scoring 42 runs off just 20 balls. In the following over, Shashini Gimhani removed Anushka for 27. Young batter Anushka Sharma, who came in to bat at number three, took the pressure off after the early wicket as she smashed five fours in the next two overs. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India will now play the final at the same ground on Sunday against the winner of the Pakistan vs Bangladesh semifinal. Article Source: IANS

BCB central contracts: Taskin, Mushfiqur demoted; no player in A+ category

Fast bowler joins captains Najmul Hossain Shanto, Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Litton Das in category A

'Leave The 22 Yards, Just Focus On Stumps': Shami's Valuable Advice For J&K Bowlers For Ranji Trophy Final

KSCA Cricket Stadium: Experienced India fast bowler Mohammed Shami gave valuable advice to the Jammu and Kashmir bowlers for their maiden Ranji Trophy final in the history of the premier domestic tournament. J&K will play their first final against the eight-time champions Karnataka, who secured their place by beating Uttarakhand in the semifinal. The summit clash is scheduled to take place at KSCA Cricket Stadium in Hubballi from February 24. Jammu and Kashmir scripted history as they stormed into their first-ever Ranji Trophy final, 16 years after their maiden appearance in the premier domestic tournament, with a six-wicket win over Bengal on day four of their semi-final at the Bengal Cricket Academy ground on Wednesday. Seam-bowling all-rounder Auqib Nabi rose to the occasion, bagging four wickets alongside Sunil Kumar as Bengal folded for 99 in their second innings on day three and tilted the contest in J&Ks favour. Playing for the losing side, Shami was at his absolute best in the match as he took an eight-wicket haul in the first innings and completed the match with nine wickets to his name. Jammu and Kashmir scripted history as they stormed into their first-ever Ranji Trophy final, 16 years after their maiden appearance in the premier domestic tournament, with a six-wicket win over Bengal on day four of their semi-final at the Bengal Cricket Academy ground on Wednesday. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Shami is the sixth-highest wicket-taker in the ongoing Ranji Trophy 2025-26. He has taken 37 wickets in just seven matches in the current season, including three five-fors. The 35-year-old had also claimed a five-wicket haul against Services last month, returning with figures of 5-51 in the second innings. Article Source: IANS

Knight Earns Maiden Call-up; Nensi Recalled To NZ Women Squad For Zimbabwe Series

U19 T20 World Cup: Uncapped duo Kayley Knight and Nensi Patel are in line to make their international debut after being named in the New Zealand Women squad for the white-ball series at home against Zimbabwe, NZC said on Friday. The series, starting February 24, marks the first instance of Zimbabwe and New Zealand playing a women's international series comprising three T20Is and as many ODIs across Hamiltons Seddon Park and Dunedins University of Otago Oval. Knight, who has previously represented New Zealand in the U19 T20 World Cup, was a key cog in the Northern Brave's T20 pace bowling unit in Super Smash, taking 10 wickets at an economy rate of 6.16. The off-spin all-rounder Nensi returned to the group after being centrally contracted for the 2022-23 season. She had an impressive domestic summer for the Northern Brave as the sides top Super Smash run-scorer and second-equal wicket-taker alongside Knight. Head Coach Ben Sawyer said both Patel and Knight had earned their spot in the squad. Nensi and Kayley have both been solid performers over the last 12-18 months, so its really pleasing for them to get this opportunity. Nensis shown her value with bat and ball, and with Eden unavailable, well look to utilise her as a frontline spin option alongside Melie. Kayleys got a bright future ahead of her. Shes emerged as a potential frontline seam option whos ready to test her skills at the next level. NZC said that Molly Penfold will replace Knight in the ODI squad, making up a four-player pace unit consisting of left-arm Bree Illing and right-armers Jess Kerr and Rosemary Mair. The squad will be captained by Melie Kerr, who has represented the White Ferns in 172 internationals, in her first assignment as the permanent captain. Meanwhile, experienced players Suzie Bates (quadricep) and Eden Carson (elbow) were not considered for selection due to their respective injuries, and Lea Tahuhu was not considered for the T20I squad due to physical preparation planning for the ICC Womens T20 World Cup in June. The squad will be captained by Melie Kerr, who has represented the White Ferns in 172 internationals, in her first assignment as the permanent captain. Also Read: Live Cricket Score New Zealand squad: Flora Devonshire, Izzy Gaze, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Bree Illing, Polly Inglis (T20Is only), Jess Kerr, Melie Kerr, Kayley Knight (T20Is only), Emma McLeod (ODIs only), Rosemary Mair, Nensi Patel, Molly Penfold (ODIs only) Georgia Plimmer, Izzy Sharp Article Source: IANS

The tactics behind Sam Harper becoming an opener

The wicketkeeper had not opened in first-class cricket before this season but is currently averaging 91.50 in the role

T20 WC: 'Fortunate Enough To Have Coached Some Great Players', Trott Ends Tenure As Afghanistan Coach

T20 World Cup: Afghanistan's final group game of the 2026 T20 World Cup, outgoing coach Jonathan Trott has reflected on his tenure with the side as he looks ahead to his next coaching opportunity. Trott's time in charge of Afghanistan came to an end on Thursday when the team was knocked out of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup despite an impressive 82-run victory over Canada in Chennai. Since taking charge of the Afghanistan National Team in 2022, Trott has collaborated closely with the players over the past few years, playing a key role in the teams growth and increasing international competitiveness. Gratitude for a journey filled with progress and pride. Thank you, @Trotty, for your outstanding services as the head coach of #AfghanAtalan since 2022. Your impact will always be remembered. Afghanistan Cricket Board posted on X. Under Trott's guidance, Afghanistan have experienced some of their most notable moments in recent cricket history, including their first-ever semifinal finish at the 2024 T20 World Cup, significant tournament wins, historic victories over top-ranked teams, and milestones that have enhanced the countrys global cricketing reputation. During the post-match presser, Trott reflected on his time in charge and said he had plenty of great memories as the side developed as individuals and as a team. I always feel fortunate enough to have had a lot of memories as a player but also now as a coach as well, Trott said. I think even at this ground (in Chennai), beating Pakistan, I think, the first time in the World Cup, 50-over game, beating England, two games in St. Vincent, that's World Cup stuff. But there've been lots of other things we've achieved: bilateral series, firsts we've beaten Pakistan, Bangladesh away, South Africa, all these sorts of things. So I'm very fortunate enough to have coached some really great players, some really good humans and a good bunch of guys and areas to improve everywhere, he said. The England international Trott also revealed that the coaching role was never part of his original plan. He was handed the opportunity by chance', stepping in after Graham Thorpe was originally set to take up the position. Graham Thorpe was supposed to be the coach, and he unfortunately couldn't take up the role. I then got offered the job and took it with both hands. But at the same time, Graham was huge in my development as a coach and he gave me great opportunities at the ECB and had full faith and belief in me as a coach, he admitted. So have a lot to be thankful for him for this role. So I'm here by chance. I gave it my all. I hope the players can see the love that have for the game and the care that have for them as players and as people. Trott suggested developing a few more reliable pacers to help spinners Rashid Khan and Mujeeb Ur Rahman, which would aid Afghanistan's next step on their cricketing journey. The consistency and development of some more seamers that will aid the spinners and not just be heavily reliant on spinners; develop some seam bowlers so that when the team plays in conditions perhaps like the World Cup in 2027 (in South Africa and Namibia), they'll be able to handle all different varieties of conditions, Trott noted. They're developing the batting resources to be able to have that, and it's about having the seamers now so they can compete all around the world, hopefully. The 44-year-old said his only focus was enjoying some time off prior to commencing his next chapter. I've really enjoyed this, and I don't know what the future holds. Maybe have a couple of days off and see how it goes. I look forward to seeing how the rest of the World Cup goes. Gee, I wish we were still here and able to play in the next round, Trott said. The 44-year-old said his only focus was enjoying some time off prior to commencing his next chapter. Also Read: Live Cricket Score So we'll have to see. But I just want to enjoy my coaching. And I've certainly enjoyed the last couple of years here. My tenure here has been ups and downs, but I've got some great memories, he concluded. Article Source: IANS

Voll makes strides in trying to fill Healy's shoes

The opener dominated Australia's innings in Canberra with 88 which set up a series-leveling 19-run victory

Jonathan Trott on England role: 'I don't know what future holds'

Outgoing Afghanistan head coach says he'd be interested in leading a team 'so close to his heart'

'Devastated' Australia Look To Avoid Oman Upset After World Cup Exit

Australia coach Andrew McDonald said on Thursday his players were devastated after their T20 World Cup exit, but they would be zeroed in on avoiding an embarrassing upset against Oman. Australia failed to make the second phase for only the second time in the event's history after defeats to Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka. We've got a pretty sort of devastated group, it's fair to say, McDonald told reporters in Kandy ahead of Friday's final match against Oman, now a dead rubber. We're usually alive coming to these points in time, but it's not to be. We've put ourselves in this position. So hopefully, Oman, we can prepare and go and do the job there. Defeat against 20th-ranked Oman would be the biggest embarrassment of all. There won't be any lack of motivation against Oman, said McDonald. We've got one more World Cup game and we'll be zeroed in on that. The match will end a chaotic Australian campaign. Australia arrived in Sri Lanka after being drubbed 3-0 in Pakistan and without injured fast bowlers Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood. They then lost their captain Mitchell Marsh for the first two games after he was hit during practice and suffered testicular bleeding. Australia's acerbic media did not hold back in their criticism, citing selection stuff-ups. Chief among those is sticking with the woefully out-of-form Cameron Green and promoting Tim David to number four as a power hitter when he had not played since December because of a hamstring injury. - 'Get our heads right' - Glenn Maxwell, so often a match-winner with the bat in the past, is struggling for runs and the Australians dearly missed the experience of Cummins and Hazlewood. Matt Renshaw was Australia's top run scorer in the first two group matches, but he was bewilderingly dropped for the Sri Lanka clash. I think the debate around selection is always great, said McDonald. There's always differing opinions from the outside and sometimes the people on the outside don't understand what the moving parts are and the conversations are on the inside. The selectors had been panned for leaving out all-time great Steve Smith from the original squad, despite his scintillating Big Bash form. Smith was finally flown in and added to the squad last week, only to be ignored for the must-win game against Sri Lanka on Monday. Without Smith and Renshaw, Australia collapsed from 160-4 to 181 all out and lost by eight wickets. They're entitled to their opinions, McDonald said of the criticism. Unfortunately, we weren't able to get the performances that we wanted, so those people are entitled to critique that and we're incredibly disappointed with where we're at. The final nail in the coffin came when Zimbabwe's match against Ireland was abandoned the next day, putting the African nation through with Sri Lanka. The next game is Oman. So we've got to get our heads right around that, said McDonald. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I think the time to start to look back over what happened will be when we exit the shores here.

T20 WC: Zadran Dedicates Player Of The Match Award To Departing Afghanistan Coach Trott

MA Chidambaram Stadium: After striking a career-best unbeaten 95 to guide Afghanistan to a commanding 82-run victory over Canada in their final Group D clash of the T20 World Cup on Thursday, opener Ibrahim Zadran dedicated his Player of the Match award to outgoing head coach Jonathan Trott. Zadrans knock, which came off 56 balls, was the highest individual score by an Afghanistan batter at a T20 World Cup, surpassing Rahmanullah Gurbazs 84 against South Africa earlier in the tournament. His innings laid the foundation for Afghanistans total of 200/4, with Mohammad Nabi later starring with 4-7 to seal the win at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. I enjoyed it, didn't play better cricket in the first two innings, which I expected. Wanted to back my skills, really enjoyed it. Pressure was there; it's there all the time. I want to put myself in pressure situations and enjoy it. Wanted to play positive cricket, rotate strike and punish bad balls, create partnerships, and this is what I have done. Want to dedicate this to coach Jonathan (Trott) - he has supported me, he has encouraged us all a lot. We have achieved things in ICC events. It's his last day with us; he taught me lots of things. I wish him all the best. We will all miss him a lot, Zadran said in the post-match presentation ceremony. Afghanistan captain Rashid Khan also paid tribute to Trott, who will step down after the sides run in the tournament ended. I think we had some wonderful times with him. Where we are now, he played a major role. It's emotional to see him leave us, but that's how life is. We wish him all the best, and somewhere down the line, we see him again. Asked about his disappointment in how the campaign panned out, Rashid said, We were well-prepared, we played some unbelievable cricket. The game against South Africa really hurt everyone. We had to win one of those (first two) games and see how the tournament unfolded. We'll take some positive things from this World Cup and look forward. A couple of areas to improve, with the batting, the middle order got a bit stuck against the big teams, and then with the bowling, the death overs. That comes when you play the bigger teams in bilateral series. We have great spinners, good batters at the top, but that's where we need to improve. Rashid also thanked fans who came to support the team in their matches. Finally, a massive thank you to all the fans who supported us in Chennai, Ahmedabad, and Delhi. The love we received made us feel like we were playing at home in Afghanistan. Were truly grateful for the support everywhere weve gone. Please keep backing us, well keep working hard and do our best to entertain you. Canada skipper Dilpreet Bajwa acknowledged his sides shortcomings but praised the exposure gained. It was great to see that camaraderie out there. Ive played franchise cricket with Azmatullah Omarzai - we were on the same team - and hes a very good friend of mine. Ive also played with Noor, and most of the players know each other through franchise leagues. Thats the beauty of the game today, it builds strong bonds beyond international cricket. Asked about where things went wrong, Bajwa said, It was a tough day for us. We started well after winning the toss and choosing to field, but I think our finishing with the ball wasnt up to the mark. Thats something we need to improve going forward. In the chase, losing early wickets made it difficult, especially against quality spinners, as we knew that would be challenging. Canada skipper Dilpreet Bajwa acknowledged his sides shortcomings but praised the exposure gained. It was great to see that camaraderie out there. Ive played franchise cricket with Azmatullah Omarzai - we were on the same team - and hes a very good friend of mine. Ive also played with Noor, and most of the players know each other through franchise leagues. Thats the beauty of the game today, it builds strong bonds beyond international cricket. Also Read: Live Cricket Score This World Cup was a valuable learning experience, and well come back stronger. Playing in front of 16,000 fans here in Chennai was special, the atmosphere was fantastic, and were thankful for the support. Its been a tough campaign, but were looking forward to doing better in the future. Article Source: IANS

Bates, Devine, Tahuhu to miss home Zimbabwe series

The selectors named the uncapped duo of Nensi Patel and Kayley Knight

T20 WC: Nabi Picks 4-7 As Afghanistan Sign Off With 82-run Win Over Canada

T20 World Cup: Veteran off-spin bowling all-rounder Mohammad Nabi produced a dazzling spell of 4-7 as Afghanistan crushed Canada by 82 runs in their final Group D clash and signed off from the 2026 Mens T20 World Cup on a high at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Thursday. Inserted to bat first, Afghanistan piled up 200/4, powered by Ibrahim Zadrans unbeaten 95, his second successive fifty of the tournament. Sediqullah Atal chipped in with 44, as Afghanistan made a score of 200 in the tournament for the first time. Canada pacer Jaskaran Singh was the pick of their bowlers, claiming 3-52, but the visitors struggled to contain Afghanistans acceleration in the final overs, which yielded 69 runs. Canadas reply began brightly, with Yuvraj Samra striking boundaries in the opening over and Dilpreet Bajwa clearing the ropes twice in the next over. But their momentum was short-lived as Mujeeb Ur Rahman bowled Bajwa, Navneet Dhaliwal departed for a duck in his final international game, and Nabi removed Samra to leave Canada reeling at 33/3 inside the Power-play. From there, Afghanistans spinners tightened the screws. Skipper Rashid Khan chipped in with 2-19 while Nabis guile proved to be decisive as he ran through the middle-order. Canadas resistance came in brief bursts, with Harsh Thaker (30) and captain Saad bin Zafar (28) offering some fight through a 53-run stand. But the chase never recovered from the early collapse, as they eventually made 118/8 in their 20 overs. The result gave Afghanistan a convincing finish to a campaign that promised much but fell short of entering the Super Eight stage, with Jonathan Trott overseeing his final match as their head coach. For Canada, the defeat marked the end of a spirited run and glimpses of promise from their younger players. A chase of 201 was always going to be an uphill task, though Samra and Bajwa began brightly. But their chase quickly unravelled as Mujeeb castled Bajwa with a googly, Dhaliwal picked out deep backward point to fall for a five-ball duck, and Nabi struck off his very first ball to remove Samra, when the leading edge was caught by backward point. Nabi continued to weave his magic, dismissing Nicholas Kirton and later Thaker to finish with his best-ever figures at a T20 World Cup. Rashid Khan took out Shreyas Movva and bin Zafar as the middle order folded under relentless spin pressure, as Afghanistan ended their campaign on a high. A chase of 201 was always going to be an uphill task, though Samra and Bajwa began brightly. But their chase quickly unravelled as Mujeeb castled Bajwa with a googly, Dhaliwal picked out deep backward point to fall for a five-ball duck, and Nabi struck off his very first ball to remove Samra, when the leading edge was caught by backward point. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Afghanistan 200/4 in 20 overs (Ibrahim Zadran 95 not out, Sediqullah Atal 44; Jaskaran Singh 3-52, Dilon Heyliger 1-41) beat Canada 118/8 in 20 overs (Harsh Thaker 30, Saad Bin Zafar 28; Mohammad Nabi 4-7, Rashid Khan 2-19) by 82 runs Article Source: IANS

Zadran and Nabi help Afghanistan sign off with massive win

While Zadran struck his T20I best of 95 not out, Nabi finished with 4 for 7, his best figures in T20Is to inflict an 82-run defeat on Canada

T20 WC: He Needs To Spend Time In The Middle, Says Gavaskar On Abhishek Sharma's String Of Ducks

T20 World Cup: India opener Abhishek Sharma has endured a difficult start to the ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026, registering his third successive duck in the teams final group-stage fixture against the Netherlands and former India captain Sunil Gavaskar believes expectations may be weighing heavily on the 25-year-old, urging him to focus on building his innings rather than forcing big shots too early. The sequence has placed Abhishek alongside Ashish Nehra for the most ducks by an Indian in T20 World Cup history, highlighting a rare slump for one of Indias most explosive batters. Abhishek Sharma is a lovely guy, but expectations seem to be weighing on him. If he had started well against the USA, it would have been different. Now, the pressure of being the big six-hitter and top batter is showing. With his shot range, he needs to spend time in the middle. He cannot try to hit a boundary or six on the first ball of his innings. If the big shots come, fine. But he shouldnt force himself to play the big shots across the line, Gavaskar said on Star Sports. Sharmas struggles began with a golden duck against the United States, followed by another early dismissal against Pakistan and then the Netherlands. In each instance, he fell within the first over, attempting aggressive strokes before settling in. Gavaskar emphasised the importance of getting off the mark and allowing his natural strokeplay to flow later in the innings. Take a single and get off the mark. Even four dot balls dont matter. He can make up for them later. He needs to play smart. Spend an hour or two settling in, then play his natural game. First, just get off the mark. Every batter wants that first run. Once he gets it, everything will fall into place, he added. Despite the lean patch, Indias assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate expressed confidence in Sharmas ability to bounce back, pointing to encouraging signs in training after his recovery from illness that ruled him out of the match against Namibia. Take a single and get off the mark. Even four dot balls dont matter. He can make up for them later. He needs to play smart. Spend an hour or two settling in, then play his natural game. First, just get off the mark. Every batter wants that first run. Once he gets it, everything will fall into place, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With India advancing to the Super 8s, the team management will be hoping Sharma can quickly rediscover his rhythm and play a key role in the decisive stage of the tournament. Article Source: IANS

PCB Warns Shadab Over Derogatory Statements On Former Players: Report

The Pakistan Cricket Board: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has conveyed its displeasure to Shadab Khan over his post-match ridicule of former players, advising the all-rounder to mind his language during the ongoing World Cup, a report has claimed. Shadab hit back at his criticism by former stars sitting on various television channels asking questions over his selection in the team, sources told Telecom Asia Sport (www.telecomasia.net). Former cricketers have their own opinions, said Shadab after his 22-ball 36 and 3-13 during Pakistan's 102-run victory over Namibia in Colombo on Wednesday. They (former players) were legends, but even they could not achieve what we have. We have beaten India in a World Cup, Shadab said. The PCB, through team manager Naveed Cheema, conveyed to the allrounder not to say harsh words on former greats. Naveed Cheema has called to convey to Shadab that he was out of his limits in the press conference on Wednesday night. Shadab should know that all former players -- including his father-in-law, Saqlain Mushtaq -- are respectable and are greats of Pakistan. Shadab should respect them and should not use such language, sources told (www.telecomasia.net). The report said that Cheema has been told to convey to other players also to keep their comments on the match, and should not cross the line, or action will be taken against them. Shadab's father-in-law, Saqlain Mushtaq, has also expressed displeasure over Shadab's comments. Those were unwanted comments, and most of the players had played with me. In fact, I am also one of them who had not won an ICC event, but we had won several big matches for Pakistan, Tests and ODIs, Saqlain told www.telecomasia.net. Another former player, Kamran Akmal, said Shadab's comments were unwanted. Saying such words against former players warrants caution, Kamran was quoted as saying in the report. Pakistan team management has been cautious about sending players for pre- and post-match comments. They did not give any players for two days before the all-important India match. Another former player, Kamran Akmal, said Shadab's comments were unwanted. Saying such words against former players warrants caution, Kamran was quoted as saying in the report. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Pakistan take on New Zealand in their first Super Eight game in Colombo on Saturday. They also face England in Pallekele (February 24) and Sri Lanka at the same venue four days later. Article Source: IANS

T20 WC: Ibrahim Zadrans Unbeaten 95 Carries Afghanistan To 200/4 Against Canada

T20 World Cup: Opener Ibrahim Zadran struck an unbeaten 95 -- his second consecutive fifty -- as Afghanistan posted 200/4 in 20 overs against Canada in their final Group D clash of the Mens T20 World Cup at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Thursday. Put in to bat first in what is also the final game of Jonathan Trott as their head coach, Afghanistan made a steady start before Canada hit back in the sixth over, as pacer Jaskaran Singh dismissed Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Gulbadin Naib in the space of four balls. Zadran then anchored the innings, finding support from Sediqullah Atal in a 95-run stand off 59 balls for the third wicket. Zadran brought up his second successive fifty of the tournament, while Atal fell in the 16th over for 44 off 32 balls. Zadran, dropped on 54 by Canadas Navneet Dhaliwal, capitalised on the reprieve to steer Afghanistan to exactly 200 in a 56-ball vigil at the crease laced with seven fours and five sixes at a strike-rate of 169.64. Its also the first time Afghanistan have posted a total of 200 in their history of participating in the tournament. Canadas bowlers endured a mixed outing, with Jaskaran Singh returning figures of 3-52 and Dilon Heyliger claiming 1-41. Afghanistans total looks formidable, leaving Canada with a stiff chase if they are to end their campaign on a high note. Afghanistan raced to 49 in the Power-play but suffered a wobble when Gurbaz, who had looked dangerous with a flurry of boundaries, perished attempting one shot too many, while Naib was trapped in front by a full delivery that skidded through. The double blow briefly checked Afghanistans momentum, but Zadran, calm and composed, found an able ally in Atal. The pair mixed calculated risk with fluent strokeplay. Atal, who struck seven boundaries in his 44, fell in the 16th over while trying to accelerate, but by then the innings had been firmly stabilised. Zadran made the most of the reprieve given to him by Dhaliwal, playing his final international game on 54, by unfurling drives, sweeps, and lofted strokes to keep the scoreboard ticking. His innings combined patience with power, and the ability to shift gears in the middle overs ensured Afghanistan never lost sight of a big total. Canadas bowlers had moments of control, but their lines and lengths faltered under pressure in the death overs. Afghanistan capitalised by scoring 69 runs in the final five overs, with Zadran ensuring boundaries flowed and set the stage for a gripping second innings. Zadran made the most of the reprieve given to him by Dhaliwal, playing his final international game on 54, by unfurling drives, sweeps, and lofted strokes to keep the scoreboard ticking. His innings combined patience with power, and the ability to shift gears in the middle overs ensured Afghanistan never lost sight of a big total. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Afghanistan 200/4 in 20 overs (Ibrahim Zadran 95 not out, Sediqullah Atal 44; Jaskaran Singh 3-52, Dilon Heyliger 1-41) against Canada Article Source: IANS

'Best time to crush' Australia, says Oman captain Jatinder Singh

Oman and Australia play the last game of the group stage in Pallekele on Friday

Hubballi to host Ranji final; Chinnaswamy not yet ready

ESPNcricinfo understands the KSCA had the option of hosting the fixture between Karnataka and Jammu & Kashmir either in Bengaluru or Hubballi

Ranji Trophy 2025-26 Final Between Karnataka And Jammu & Kashmir To Be Played In Hubballi

Karnataka State Cricket Association: The Ranji Trophy 2025/26 final between Karnataka and Jammu & Kashmir will be staged at the KSCA Cricket Stadium in Hubballi from February 24, said the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) on Thursday. Previously, a JKCA official told IANS that the final was likely to be held in Hubballi. Taking into account both the ongoing stadium upgradation works in Bengaluru and the Associations commitment to decentralising top-level cricket, KSCA, in consultation with the BCCI, has decided to host the Ranji Trophy Final at the KSCA Hubballi Stadium. Several spectator gates and access points are currently being dismantled and widened, along with other critical improvement works. In view of these ongoing developments, it would not have been feasible to ensure the high-quality match-viewing experience and spectator convenience that a marquee fixture such as the Ranji Trophy Final deserves. Further, the newly elected KSCA Managing Committee, which assumed office in December 2025 under the leadership of former India cricketer and KSCA President Mr. Venkatesh Prasad, had, as part of its stated vision and manifesto commitments, resolved to take major domestic and national-level matches to prominent mofussil centres across Karnataka. This initiative is aimed at promoting cricket across the State, nurturing regional fan engagement, and strengthening the sporting ecosystem beyond Bengaluru, said the KSCA in its statement. Karnataka advanced to the title clash after 11 years, after drawing their semifinal against Uttarakhand but progressing on a first-innings lead grabbed in Lucknow. Jammu & Kashmir, meanwhile, scripted history by reaching their first-ever final with a stunning six-wicket win over Bengal in Kalyani. Further, the newly elected KSCA Managing Committee, which assumed office in December 2025 under the leadership of former India cricketer and KSCA President Mr. Venkatesh Prasad, had, as part of its stated vision and manifesto commitments, resolved to take major domestic and national-level matches to prominent mofussil centres across Karnataka. This initiative is aimed at promoting cricket across the State, nurturing regional fan engagement, and strengthening the sporting ecosystem beyond Bengaluru, said the KSCA in its statement. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Karnataka will be featuring in the summit clash for the 15th time. The eight-time champions last appeared in the Ranji Trophy in 2015, when they defeated Tamil Nadu. Karnataka have dominated head-to-head meetings with Jammu & Kashmir -- winning all four encounters, including their most recent clash in Chennai in 2022. Hubbali was previously the host for Karnatakas league fixture against Chandigarh earlier this season - a match they won by 185 runs. Article Source: IANS

T20 WC: All Stats From Zimbabwes Six-wicket Win Over Sri Lanka In Group B

T20 World Cup: Zimbabwe finished unbeaten in Group B of the ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026 with a clinical six-wicket victory over Sri Lanka at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Thursday. Chasing 179, Zimbabwe laid a strong foundation through an opening stand of 68 between Brian Bennett and Tadiwanashe Marumani. Marumani struck 34 off 26 balls, while Bennett anchored the innings with maturity after an early reprieve. Zimbabwe reached 78/1 at the halfway mark, keeping the required rate under control. Ryan Burl added momentum with a brisk 23 before skipper Sikandar Raza turned the match decisively in Zimbabwes favour. Raza smashed 45 off 26 balls, including four sixes, forming a crucial partnership with Bennett and shifting the pressure onto Sri Lanka. Zimbabwe collected 46 runs between the 15th and 17th overs to take control of the chase. Although Sri Lanka struck twice late, Bennett held firm, finishing unbeaten on 59 off 47 balls and sealing the win with a boundary in the final over. Earlier, Sri Lanka posted 178/7, with Pathum Nissanka scoring 62. Zimbabwes disciplined bowling ensured the target remained achievable as they completed their second-highest successful T20I chase and topped Group B unbeaten. Heres a look at all the key stats from the Zimbabwe vs Sri Lanka match 4 Sri Lankan bowlers have taken the fewest wickets, four, in the powerplay of this T20 World Cup, averaging 51.5, which is the lowest among the Super 8 teams. 1395 Zimbabwe's opening pair, T Marumani and Brian Bennett, holds the record for the most successful opening partnership in T20Is with 1395 runs among them. 11 Brian Bennett has scored 11 half-centuries in T20Is, including two consecutive fifties. Prior to this, he scored an unbeaten 64 against Australia in Colombo. In the current T20 WC, he was not dismissed. 19 It is the number of half-centuries scored by Sri Lankan opener Pathun Nissanka (62) in T20Is. It was his 6th in 22 T20 WC matches. 11 Brian Bennett has scored 11 half-centuries in T20Is, including two consecutive fifties. Prior to this, he scored an unbeaten 64 against Australia in Colombo. In the current T20 WC, he was not dismissed. Also Read: Live Cricket Score 4 Sri Lanka is now the fourth full-member team to have been defeated by Zimbabwe in the T20 WCs. Australia, Pakistan, and Ireland are the other three. Australia suffered 2 defeats at the hands of Zimbabwe in the T20 WCs, first in Cape Town in 2007 and second in Colombo in 2026. Article Source: IANS

2nd T20I: Harman Has Been A Special Player For India, Says Muzumdar After 19-run Loss

ODI World Cup: India head coach Amol Muzumdar hailed skipper Harmanpreet Kaur as a special player after she became the most-capped cricketer in womens international cricket, though her milestone game was marked by a 19-run defeat to Australia in the second T20I at Manuka Oval in Canberra on Thursday. Harmanpreet played her 356th international match and surpassed New Zealands Suzie Bates (355). Her tally of international games now includes 189 T20Is, 161 ODIs, and six Tests. She top-scored with 36, though it went in vain as India ended up at 144/9 in a chase of 163/5. I think Harman has been a special player for India, and I would just want to wish her and congratulate her for the massive achievement of being the highest-capped player in the history of the game. So I think it was a good effort from her. Just in the end, a little bit short of what we expected, but things happen in T20 cricket, Muzumdar said in the post-match press conference. Though India fell short despite a promising start, Muzumdar chose to look at the positives. Just taking some positives out of the game -- came back really strongly in bowling. I think restricting Australia after that good start to 163 was a good effort. We got a good start as well with the bat. So, taking a lot of positives out of this game and looking forward to the Adelaide game, he said. He also welcomed the return of Pratika Rawal to the ODI squad after an ankle injury sustained in the 2025 Womens ODI World Cup clash against Bangladesh in Navi Mumbai kept her out of action. We are really glad that she's come out of the rehab. She spent the last couple of months in Bangalore, in the Centre of Excellence, and is really looking forward to Pratika being back in the squad. We've missed her in the World Cup in the last two games. But she's a quality player, and it's a great inclusion in this squad. Looking ahead at how Pratika and Shafali Verma will feature in the same playing eleven, Muzumdar said, It's a good headache to have. So we'll cross the bridge when we get there. I think first, let's focus on Adelaide, the third T20I. It's a good headache to have, and hopefully, we'll fit in the correct combination in playing eleven by the time we come to ODIs. On the atmosphere while playing the games so far in Australia, Muzumdar said, I mean, we're enjoying it. It's been lovely so far. Two games in Sydney. I think the turnout was fantastic. Even here in Canberra, the turnout has been really amazing. So I think it just reflects the quality of cricket and what these two teams bring to the table. Looking ahead at how Pratika and Shafali Verma will feature in the same playing eleven, Muzumdar said, It's a good headache to have. So we'll cross the bridge when we get there. I think first, let's focus on Adelaide, the third T20I. It's a good headache to have, and hopefully, we'll fit in the correct combination in playing eleven by the time we come to ODIs. Also Read: Live Cricket Score --IANS Article Source: IANS

T20 WC: All Stats From West Indies' 42-run Win Over Italy In Group C

The West Indies: The West Indies continued their unbeaten run in the T20 World Cup 2026 with a comprehensive 42-run victory over Italy in their final group stage match at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Thursday. After being put in to bat, the West Indies posted a competitive 165/6 in 20 overs, courtesy of a superb 75 from skipper Shai Hope. The opener anchored the innings with a fluent knock off 46 balls, striking four sixes and six boundaries. Hope stitched a crucial 64-run partnership with Roston Chase to stabilise the innings after early setbacks. Late contributions from Sherfane Rutherford and Matthew Forde ensured a strong finish for the two-time champions. In reply, Italy faltered early in the chase and never quite recovered. They lost three wickets inside the Power-play, putting themselves under immediate pressure. Though Ben Manenti and Grant Stewart attempted to revive the innings with a brisk stand, West Indies bowlers kept striking at regular intervals. Fast bowler Shamar Joseph led the charge with an impressive four-wicket haul, while Matthew Forde chipped in with three crucial wickets. Gudakesh Motie also played his part with two scalps as Italy were bowled out for 123 in 18 overs. All the stats from the West Indies win: 1st - Shamar Joseph of the West Indies became the first player to claim 4 wickets and hold 4 catches in a T20I match. 5 - Shamar Joseph becomes the 5th non-wicketkeeper fielder to hold 4 catches in a T20WC match. Darren Sammy (WI), Aiden Markram (SA), Glen Maxwell (Aus), and George Munsey (SCO) are the others. 1st - Shamar Joseph of the West Indies became the first player to claim 4 wickets and hold 4 catches in a T20I match. Also Read: Live Cricket Score 4/30 - The bowling figures of Shamar Joseph v Italy are his best in 19 T20I matches. His previous best was 3/30 v Pakistan in Lauderhill in 2025. Article Source: IANS

T20 WC: We Could Have Done Better With The Ball, But No Excuses, Says Shanaka After SLs Defeat To Zimbabwe

T20 World Cup: Sri Lanka captain Dasun Shanaka admitted his side fell short in key moments despite posting a competitive total, conceding that execution with the ball and decision-making in crucial phases ultimately cost them in their Group B clash in the ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026 at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Thursday. Reflecting on Sri Lankas batting effort, Shanaka expressed satisfaction with the foundation laid by the top order but acknowledged there was room for improvement. We had a pretty good start, and to be honest, I think the score we put on was good enough to defend. There were a few patches (of the match) where we could have done slightly better, but overall, Ill take that score today. Im really happy with the way Pathum (Nissanka) and Pawan (Ratnayake) played. I think it was a good total on this pitch, Shanaka said after the match. Sri Lanka had looked in control after posting a strong total, with their openers providing momentum and setting up what appeared to be a defendable score on a surface that offered assistance to bowlers. However, Zimbabwes composed chase denied the hosts, as they failed to make early inroads with the ball. Shanaka pointed to the lack of early breakthroughs and the challenges faced by an evolving bowling attack, while taking responsibility for tactical calls that did not yield the desired outcome. The plan was simple, as usual (with the ball). Take wickets upfront. Unfortunately, we couldnt get that started with the ball. Its a bit tough with newcomers coming in; they need some time to settle as well. But no excuses. We could have done slightly better. Some of my decisions were a bit of a gamble, too. It was one of those days where we could have done better with the ball, but again, no excuses, he stated. Shanaka pointed to the lack of early breakthroughs and the challenges faced by an evolving bowling attack, while taking responsibility for tactical calls that did not yield the desired outcome. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The Sri Lankan skipper also stressed the need for improved confidence and sharper intent on the field as the tournament progresses, stating, I feel we need to be more confident on the field. Thats something we lacked today. Hopefully, we come back with a better attitude the next time we step onto the field. Article Source: IANS

Alec Stewart on England speculation: 'There isn't a job to say yes or no to'

Surrey grandee would be strong contender for role within English cricket in wake of Ashes loss

Canada bowl as Afghanistan leave out Noor Ahmad

Canada also made just one change as both teams play their final game of this T20 World Cup

T20 WC: Raza Talks Of Belief, Preparation, And Fearlessness As Zimbabwe Beat Sri Lanka To Enter Super 8s Unbeaten

T20 World Cup: Sikandar Raza emphasised belief, preparation, and fearlessness after leading Zimbabwe to another statement win over Sri Lanka in the ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026, saying their unbeaten run reflects the teams growing confidence and resilience, and that everyone would like to see underdogs reaching the top. The Zimbabwe captain, who was named Player of the Match following his decisive all-round effort at the R. Premadasa Stadium, revealed he trusted his rhythm even after a cautious start in the chase. When I walked out there, I thought the openers laid the foundation. And I think when Ryan Burl went out there as well, we tried to change the momentum. Unfortunately, he got out too. After the first eight balls, I said to myself, Ive only got four or five runs, but I can see the ball, Im middling the ball. So from then on, I backed myself that if I find a ball, I can middle it and hopefully it flies for the distance. And thats all it was, he said during the post-match presentation. The Zimbabwe skipper explained that once he found momentum, he focused on calculated aggression to keep the chase under control, saying, Once I connected one, then it was a matter of just keeping going. In my head, I was calculating, trying not to over-attack. We needed one over of 20 (runs), which we got. After that, it was about going at nines, followed by eights, followed by sixes. Ideally, I wanted to finish the game, but well take it. He also reserved special praise for his batting partner Brian Bennett, highlighting the youngsters composure and maturity under pressure. I kept saying to Benny (Brian Bennett) that if you find a ball, hit it for a boundary. Otherwise, its really important that you bat through. I felt like Id let you down at the start, but Im starting to find my rhythm, so just please hang in there. If you stay at one end, we can win the game from the other end. Credit to Benny, he keeps doing that role really well, and I think hes going to get better and better with every game. I cant wait to see this boy grow, he stated. Raza reflected on Zimbabwes unbeaten campaign with pride but admitted his mindset is always focused on what lies ahead. Im pretty excited about how Zimbabwe has gone about its business. Every time weve played a game, weve won, and were unbeaten so far. For me, its always the next game that comes into my head. As much as I want to enjoy the victory and all that, my mind keeps drifting forward, and sometimes I struggle to bring myself back. But I think its a nice position to be in as a captain. Ill try to enjoy tonight at least, but lets see how it goes. Its a nice position to be in as a captain. Ill try to enjoy tonight at least, but lets see how it goes, Raza added. Despite the success, Raza stressed that Zimbabwe remain focused on improvement and sustaining their momentum. It can always get better. We can win the first game of the Super Eight -- it always can get better. We keep our sights forward. But if I bring myself to the present, the effort the boys have shown over the last two weeks, I dont think anybody gave us a chance to be where we are. So win peoples hearts and earn their respect, its a wonderful position to be in, he noted. He also made it clear that Zimbabwes mindset remains unchanged regardless of match situations, including the toss, saying, When we lost the toss, all I said to my boys was: If we are truly playing good cricket, why should the toss play such a huge part in our mindset? If were playing good cricket, it is what it is. It can always get better. We can win the first game of the Super Eight -- it always can get better. We keep our sights forward. But if I bring myself to the present, the effort the boys have shown over the last two weeks, I dont think anybody gave us a chance to be where we are. So win peoples hearts and earn their respect, its a wonderful position to be in, he noted. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With Zimbabwe now firmly establishing themselves as one of the tournaments surprise packages, Raza reiterated the belief driving their campaign. But just to get there unbeaten is something we can hold our heads high about. And if we can win two out of those three games, then you never know. As I keep saying - everybody loves an underdog story, he concluded. Article Source: IANS

T20 WC: Zimbabwe Enter Super 8s Undefeated After Emphatic Six-wicket Win Over Sri Lanka

T20 World Cup: Brian Bennett anchored the chase with a composed unbeaten half-century while Sikandar Raza delivered a crucial late blow as Zimbabwe pulled off a thrilling six-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in their Group B clash of the ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026 at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Thursday. Chasing a competitive target of 179, Zimbabwe rode on a strong opening partnership between Bennett and Tadiwanashe Marumani to lay the foundation. The duo added 68 runs for the first wicket, with Marumani playing aggressively to score 34 off 26 balls, striking five fours and a six. Bennett, meanwhile, settled in after an early reprieve and steadily built momentum. Zimbabwe reached 78/1 at the halfway stage and continued to keep the required rate in check. Ryan Burl provided further impetus with a quickfire 23 off 12 balls, including a towering six, before Sri Lanka skipper Dasun Shanaka struck to briefly halt the progress. However, the match turned decisively in Zimbabwes favour during a blistering partnership between Bennett and Raza. With the chase finely poised, Raza launched a fierce counterattack, smashing four sixes and two boundaries in his 45 off just 26 balls. His assault, particularly against the spinners, swung the momentum and reduced the pressure on the visitors. Bennett brought up his half-century off 41 balls and continued to anchor the innings with maturity, rotating strike effectively while capitalising on loose deliveries. Zimbabwe collected 46 runs between the 15th and 17th overs, effectively taking the game away from Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka attempted a late comeback when Dushan Hemantha dismissed Raza and Tashinga Musekiwa in quick succession, but Munyonga kept his composure under pressure. He struck a crucial six in the penultimate over before Bennett sealed the victory in style with a boundary through extra cover, finishing unbeaten on 59 off 47 balls. Earlier, Sri Lanka had posted 178/7 in their 20 overs, but Zimbabwes disciplined bowling effort ensured the total remained within reach. The victory marked Zimbabwes second-highest successful chase in T20 internationals and ensured they finished unbeaten in Group B, topping a table that included Sri Lanka, Australia, and Ireland. Sri Lanka, despite moments of control, were undone by Zimbabwes clinical batting in the death overs. Earlier, Sri Lanka had posted 178/7 in their 20 overs, but Zimbabwes disciplined bowling effort ensured the total remained within reach. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Sri Lanka 178/7 in 20 overs (Pathum Nissanka 62, Pavan Rathnayake 44; Graeme Cremer 2-27, Blessing Muzarabani 2-38) lost to Zimbabwe 179/6 in 19.3 overs (Brian Bennett 59*, Sikandar Raza 45; Dushan Hemantha 2-36) by six wickets. Article Source: IANS

Kapp rested for Pakistan ODIs as a precaution, Fay Cowling gets maiden call-up

A CSA statement said Kapp was being rested for the series after feeling discomfort in the third T20I

T20 WC: Canada Elect To Bowl First Against Afghanistan In Final Group D Clash

T20 World Cup: Canada won the toss and elected to bowl first against Afghanistan in their final Group D clash of the ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Thursday. The match also marks veteran batter Navneet Dhaliwals final game in international cricket. Pacer Kaleem Sana is back in the Canadian playing eleven, in place of Shivam Sharma. The wicket didn't change much in the last game, and also because of the dew factor. We have to fight stronger with the ball and not concede too many loose balls, said Canada skipper Dilpreet Bajwa. He also revealed that apart from Dhaliwal, Ravinderpal Singh, who is not in the playing eleven, is also retiring from international cricket after Thursdays clash. Final game for them. It's a very sad moment for Cricket Canada. Both of them are legends. One is our run machine, and one is our energy machine, so we are gonna miss them, and hopefully it is a good opportunity for upcoming youngsters in Canada, added Bajwa. Afghanistan too have one change, with Abdullah Amadzai coming in for left-arm wrist-spinner Noor Ahmad. Not the kind of end we wanted in this competition, and I feel we have those skills, but just that game against South Africa put us down. We need to make the nation proud and want to finish off well, said captain Rashid Khan. Playing XIs Afghanistan too have one change, with Abdullah Amadzai coming in for left-arm wrist-spinner Noor Ahmad. Not the kind of end we wanted in this competition, and I feel we have those skills, but just that game against South Africa put us down. We need to make the nation proud and want to finish off well, said captain Rashid Khan. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Canada: Yuvraj Samra, Dilpreet Bajwa (captain), Navneet Dhaliwal, Harsh Thaker, Nicholas Kirton, Shreyas Movva (wk), Saad Bin Zafar, Dilon Heyliger, Jaskarandeep Singh, Kaleem Sana, and Ansh Patel Article Source: IANS

Zimbabwe stun Sri Lanka to enter Super Eight unbeaten

The Zimbabwe bowlers kept Sri Lanka to 178 on a sluggish track before the batters combined to seal their second-highest successful T20I chase

Kapp Ruled Out Of SA Vs Pakistan ODIs Series, Cowling Named Replacement

U19 T20 World Cup: Veteran South Africa all-rounder Marizanne Kapp has been ruled out of the upcoming womens ODI series against Pakistan due to illness, said Cricket South Africa (CSA) on Thursday. Marizanne, 36, experienced discomfort shortly after completing her spell during the first innings of the third T20I against Pakistan at Willowmoore Park in Benoni on Monday. Following further medical assessments, the Proteas Women's medical team has opted to rest her as a precaution, added the CSA. In her place, DP World Lions bowling all-rounder Fay Cowling has received her first national call-up. Fay, a former South Africa under-19 player, impressed selectors during last months national training camp in Tshwane. She was a part of the side that became runners-up in the 2025 Womens U19 T20 World Cup in Malaysia. Marizanne, who has 162 ODI caps to her name since debuting in the format in 2009, had played two T20Is against Pakistan and returned with figures of 1-25 and 0-11 respectively. The seam-bowling all-rounder was instrumental in the Proteas recent successes at the international level, including being runners-up in the 2025 Womens ODI World Cup in India and Sri Lanka. In her place, DP World Lions bowling all-rounder Fay Cowling has received her first national call-up. Fay, a former South Africa under-19 player, impressed selectors during last months national training camp in Tshwane. She was a part of the side that became runners-up in the 2025 Womens U19 T20 World Cup in Malaysia. Also Read: Live Cricket Score South Africa womens ODI squad: Laura Wolvaardt (captain), Tazmin Brits, Fay Cowling, Nadine de Klerk, Annerie Dercksen, Lara Goodall, Ayanda Hlubi, Sinalo Jafta, Sun Luus, Karabo Meso, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Tumi Sekhukhune, Nondumiso Shangase, Chlo Tryon, and Faye Tunnicliffe Article Source: IANS

Ranji Trophy: Karnataka Set Up Title Clash With J&K After Crushing Uttarakhand

KSCA Rajnagar Stadium: The Karnataka cricket team, under the leadership of Devdutt Padikkal, has ended the 11-year wait and reached their first Ranji Trophy final since the 2014-15 season. The team's qualification came after they took a first-innings lead against Uttarakhand in the semifinal played at the Ekana Stadium on Thursday. The eight-time champions, Karnataka, will play the title clash against Jammu and Kashmir, who created history by reaching the finals for the first time by beating Bengal in the other semi-final. The BCCI is yet to announce the venue for the final match, but sources have confirmed to IANS that Hubli is leading the race to host the clash. It is understood that KSCA Rajnagar Stadium in Hubbali is leading the race to host the Ranji Trophy final. A JKCA official told IANS that it is likely the final will be held in Hubbali, though a formal confirmation on this hasn't come yet. Speaking of the match, coming to bat after losing the toss, Karnataka batted for 194.4 overs and scored a magnificent total of 736 runs in the first innings, riding on the double century from the captain, Padikkal, who scored 232 runs of 330 balls. Opener KL Rahul also continued his great form and played a brilliant knock of 141 runs, while Smaran Ravichandran showed his composure under pressure and hit 135 runs to take the team to a mammoth total. Karnataka's bowlers dismantled Uttarakhand's batting unit and bowled them out for just 233 runs in 88.5 overs, giving a 503-run lead to the team, which proved to be crucial in their final qualification. Vidyadhar Patil and Vijaykumar Vyashak led from the front for the team and took three wickets each, while Shreyas Gopal also chipped in two wickets. Karnataka added 323 runs more to their lead in the second innings. With the help of a 127-run knock from Ravichandran and an 86-run unbeaten innings from Rahul. Chasing an imposing target of 827 on the final day, Uttarakhand reached 260/6 in 62 overs before both captains agreed to call it a draw. Aditya Rawat remained unbeaten on 53, while Abhay Negi was not out on 57. Gopal took three wickets in the second innings, while Prasidh grabbed two and Vijay Kumar chipped in with one for Karnataka. Karnataka added 323 runs more to their lead in the second innings. With the help of a 127-run knock from Ravichandran and an 86-run unbeaten innings from Rahul. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Karnataka 736 & 323 (Smaran Ravichandran 127, KL Rahul 86 not out, Kruthik Krishna 52; Mayank Mishra 4-69) drew with Uttarakhand 233 & 260/6 in 62 overs (Abhay Negi 57 not out, Aditya Rawat 53 not out) Article Source: IANS

2nd T20I: Volls 88 Helps Australia Beat India By 19 Runs, Get First Points In Multi-format Series

Renuka Singh Thakur: Georgia Voll's career-best 88 and a record opening partnership with Beth Mooney, along with bowlers delivering a clinical death overs bowling display, helped Australia beat India by 19 runs in the second women's T20I at the Manuka Oval on Thursday. The result, also the first T20I win for Sophie Molineux as the sides captain, meant Australia got their first points in the multi-format series and will aim to grab the T20I series when the third game happens at the Adelaide Oval on Saturday. Georgia and Beth put on 128 runs for the opening wicket -- Australia's highest partnership against India in T20Is as they posted 163/5. Georgia, batting with fluency and authority, struck 88 off 57 balls before falling to seamer Arundhati Reddy in the 15th over. Beth contributed 46 and fell four runs short of a half-century, before also falling to Arundhati, who finished with 2-30. Australia's momentum changed dramatically after that opening stand, as from a commanding 128 for no loss in the 14th over, the hosts could muster only 49 more runs from their remaining 42 deliveries and lost five wickets in the process. In reply, India's openers capitalised early, racing to 54 for no loss in the Power-play and threatening to make light work of the target. But Australia fought back sharply, claiming all of India's top-order in a four-over burst that shifted the momentum decisively, as the visitors reached 71/3 at the halfway mark. Harmanpreet Kaur and wicketkeeper Richa Ghosh steadied the innings with a 55-run partnership that kept India's hopes alive. But a pivotal moment came in the 17th over when Kim Garth, mixing her pace cleverly, produced a slower delivery to dismiss Harmanpreet for 36. From there, it triggered a dramatic collapse, as India lost their last six wickets for a mere seven runs. Ashleigh Gardner was the pick of Australia's bowlers with 3-22. At the same time, Kim, Annabel Sutherland, and Sophie each claimed two wickets as Australia's attack used variations smartly to defend what had appeared to be a below-par total. For India, they will rue a succession of promising starts that went unconverted into a big knock. Harmanpreet Kaur and wicketkeeper Richa Ghosh steadied the innings with a 55-run partnership that kept India's hopes alive. But a pivotal moment came in the 17th over when Kim Garth, mixing her pace cleverly, produced a slower delivery to dismiss Harmanpreet for 36. From there, it triggered a dramatic collapse, as India lost their last six wickets for a mere seven runs. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Australia 163/5 in 20 overs (Georgia Voll 88, Beth Mooney 46; Arundhati Reddy 2-30, Renuka Singh Thakur 1-27) beat India 144/9 in 20 overs (Harmanpreet Kaur 36, Smriti Mandhana 31; Ashleigh Gardner 3-22, Annabel Sutherland 2-18) by 19 runs Article Source: IANS

Padikkal, Smaran, Rahul star as Karnataka make 15th final

Their semi-final against Uttarakhand ended in a draw, but Karnataka were through on a first-innings lead

Andrew McDonald: Australia were 'fully locked' in for T20 World Cup

AUS vs OMN Match 40 Prediction, ICC T20 World Cup 2026: Match Preview And Expected Playing XI

AUS vs OMN, Match 40, Cricket Tips :The group stage of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 has come to an end, and all four spots in the Super 8 are filled. But shockingly, Australia, have been eliminated, and they suffered an early group exit. Australia will be facing Oman in the last group game in Pallekele. This contest is slated to be held at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium on Friday at 7 PM IST. Mitchell Marsh missed the first two games and was back in the previous game. He and Travis Head scored a fifty each but couldn't save the team from elimination. They will look to end the poor campaign with a consolation win. Oman have been very poor with form and tactics and have yet to win a game so far. AUS vs OMN: Match Details Date: February 20, 2026 (Friday) Time: 7:00 PM IST Venue: Pallekele International Stadium, Pallekele AUS vs OMN Live Streaming Details The final group game of the tournament will be live on Star Sports Networks. Fans can also watch the game through the Jio Hotstar streaming platform. AUS vs OMN Head-to-Head in T20Is Total Matches : 1 Australia : 1 Oman : 0 No-Result : 0 AUS vs OMN: Ground Pitch Report The last game in Pallekele was washed out, and we can also see for this game as well. The wicket here is good to bat in the first innings, but the wicket will grip more in the lateral stages of the game. Hence, the toss will be key here, and bowling first can be an advantage. AUS vs OMN Possible XIs Australia : Mitchell Marsh (c), Josh Inglis (wk), Travis Head, Cameron Green, Tim David, Marcus Stoinis, Glenn Maxwell, Cooper Connolly, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa Oman : Aamir Kaleem, Jatinder Singh (c), Hammad Mirza, Ashish Odedara, Mohammad Nadeem, Jiten Ramanandi, Vinayak Shukla (wk), Nadeem Khan, Sufyan Mehmood, Shah Faisal, Shakeel Ahmed AUS vs OMN: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Mitchell Marsh slammed a fifty on his return and was clear in his intent. That makes him a dangerous batter. For Oman, captain Jatinder Singh has the technique to score freely here in Pallekele, and he will be a big wicket in the game. Probable Best Bowler Adam Zampa has looked average in the last two games, but he won't be an easy bowler to pick for this opposition. Sufyan Mehmood has been on the radar this edition and is bowling well at the moment. Today Match Prediction : Australia have struggled in these conditions, but that doesn't make them weak. We predict them to beat Oman in this game. AUS vs OMN Match 40, ICC T20 World Cup 2026, Today AUS vs OMN Match, AUS vs OMN Prediction, AUS vs OMN Predicted XIs, Injury Update for AUS vs OMN Match Also Read: Live Cricket Score Disclaimer: The prediction or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.

Webster's rearguard century carries Tasmania to draw

In the end it was the home side push for victory as Riley Meredith took four wickets

T20 WC: 'We Should Have Got A Bit More On The Board,' Says Hope Despite Big Win Against Italy

T20 World Cup: Skipper Shai Hope was not happy with the batting struggles of his side, especially in the Power-play, despite West Indies registering a thumping 42-run win against Italy in their last group stage match of the T20 World Cup 2026 played at Eden Gardens on Thursday, staying unbeaten and marching into the Super 8s in dominant fashion. Batting first after losing the toss, West Indies posted 165/6 in 20 overs, led by captain Shai Hope, who struck a fluent 75. The total proved more than enough as fast bowler Shamar Joseph starred with four wickets to bowl Italy out for 123 in 18 overs. Reflecting on the first innings, Hope felt his side could have pushed harder with the bat despite putting up a competitive score. I thought that the pitch was pretty decent. I thought we should have got a bit more on the board, especially looking at how the other wickets played, especially in the first couple of overs. I also said before, its a bit different when youve got a few up from there. And in that situation there, I just felt as though we could have put a bit more impetus into the innings, especially with the field, Hope said. West Indies lost a couple of early wickets but were steadied by Hopes authoritative knock, before late contributions from Rutherford and Forde ensured a defendable total. However, the skipper stressed the importance of being more forceful in similar situations going forward. Weve got to ensure that if we have to face that situation again, that were going to play the best to be a bit more forceful. But when crunch time comes, lets ensure that you capitalise on those deliveries, he said. Defending the target, the West Indies bowlers kept Italy under pressure throughout the chase, striking regularly to prevent partnerships from developing. Hope credited the bowling units growing confidence and consistency. Theyre very good. Its just executing really well, not just in this tournament, but even from a few series ago. Were just taking the strides where we need to. I just feel as though the confidence and clarity that were finding in our bowlers gives us a lot more, I guess, clearer execution, he said. With the two-time champions finishing the group stage with a perfect record, Hope emphasised the need to stay grounded and focused on the present. I always look at the present, you know, those things that we pass. Yes, weve got to look at it and use those experiences to gain that momentum that were looking for. But again, this is T20 play. Youve got to bring your best, your best on your game in a tournament, especially like this, the cricket World Cup, he said. With the two-time champions finishing the group stage with a perfect record, Hope emphasised the need to stay grounded and focused on the present. Also Read: Live Cricket Score West Indies will now head to Mumbai, where they will play their first Super 8 match against Zimbabwe at the Wankhede Stadium on Monday. Article Source: IANS

T20 WC: Nissanka, Rathnayake Guide Sri Lanka To 178/7 Against Zimbabwe

T20 WC: Sri Lanka rode on a composed half-century from Pathum Nissanka and crucial late contributions from Pavan Rathnayake to post 178/7 in their Group B clash against Zimbabwe here at the R. Premadasa Stadium on Thursday. Opting to bat first, Sri Lanka made an aggressive start as openers Nissanka and Kusal Perera attacked the new ball with confidence. Perera set the tone early with crisp strokeplay, pulling and driving with authority to score 22 off just 14 balls, including four boundaries. Nissanka complemented him perfectly, showcasing elegant timing through the off-side and sharp placement square of the wicket as the pair raced to 54 inside five overs. Zimbabwes breakthrough came through Blessing Muzarabani, who dismissed Perera with a short ball, but Sri Lanka maintained momentum as Nissanka anchored the innings. He brought up a fluent half-century off 34 deliveries, mixing controlled aggression with clever strike rotation. His knock of 62 off 41 balls, studded with eight fours, ensured Sri Lanka crossed the 100-run mark in the 12th over and remained firmly on track for a big total. However, Zimbabwes spinners, led by Ryan Burl and Graeme Cremer, fought back effectively in the middle overs. Burl produced a sharp leg-break to stump Kusal Mendis for 14, while Cremer dismissed the well-set Nissanka with a superb catch at backward point, triggering a brief slowdown. Cremers variations and bounce proved particularly effective as Sri Lanka lost momentum between overs 12 and 15. The innings regained impetus through a counterattacking cameo from Pavan Rathnayake, who scored a brisk 44 off 25 balls. Rathnayake injected urgency with inventive strokeplay, including two sixes and three fours, while adding valuable runs alongside Dasun Shanaka during a crucial phase. Zimbabwes seamers struck back at key moments, with Muzarabani and Brad Evans picking up important wickets in the death overs to restrict Sri Lankas surge. Evans removed Rathnayake and Dushan Hemantha in quick succession, while Muzarabani finished with two wickets to keep Sri Lanka in check. The innings regained impetus through a counterattacking cameo from Pavan Rathnayake, who scored a brisk 44 off 25 balls. Rathnayake injected urgency with inventive strokeplay, including two sixes and three fours, while adding valuable runs alongside Dasun Shanaka during a crucial phase. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: Sri Lanka 178/7 in 20 overs (Pathum Nissanka 62, Pavan Rathnayake 44; Graeme Cremer 2-27, Blessing Muzarabani 2-38) against Zimbabwe. Article Source: IANS

DDCA Hosts Students And Delhi Police Families For SA Vs UAE At Arun Jaitley Stadium

DDCA Vice President Shikha Kumar: The Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) hosted approximately 2,000 special guests at the Arun Jaitley Stadium during the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 fixture between South Africa and the UAE. The initiative included approximately 1,000 school students from various schools and welfare institutions across the capital. The students were invited to witness the international fixture live, offering many of them the opportunity to experience a global cricketing event from within the stadium environment. Through this gesture, DDCA aims to encourage greater participation in sport, inspire young minds, and strengthen crickets connection with the next generation across diverse sections of society, DDCA said in a release. Speaking about the initiative, DDCA President Rohan Jaitley said, It was extremely encouraging to see so many young students experience an international cricket match for the very first time, and that too at a World Cup. For many of these children, this is not just a game but a memory that will stay with them for years to come. We believe sport has the power to inspire, and giving young minds the opportunity to witness cricket at the highest level is a small step towards nurturing that inspiration. In addition, 1,000 Delhi Police personnel, along with their family members, were invited to the match as a gesture of acknowledgement and appreciation for their service. The successful conduct of major cricketing events in Delhi is made possible through close coordination with the Delhi Police. Their professionalism and timely assistance are vital to maintaining safety and order during matchdays. This initiative is a small token of appreciation and a step towards strengthening operational efficiency on the ground. Jaitley added, Our police personnel are an integral part of every match we host. Their commitment, discipline, and constant vigilance ensure that players and spectators can enjoy the game in a safe environment. Behind their unwavering sense of duty are their families, whose support fuels their service to the city. Through this gesture, we wanted to recognise and acknowledge the silent strength and sacrifices made by their families behind the scenes. He further stated, We are glad that fans are showing up in large numbers to watch the World Cup in Delhi, and we would like to thank everyone involved in making the same possible. Jaitley added, Our police personnel are an integral part of every match we host. Their commitment, discipline, and constant vigilance ensure that players and spectators can enjoy the game in a safe environment. Behind their unwavering sense of duty are their families, whose support fuels their service to the city. Through this gesture, we wanted to recognise and acknowledge the silent strength and sacrifices made by their families behind the scenes. Also Read: Live Cricket Score DDCA Secretary Ashok Sharma added, Behind every successful international fixture lies months of coordination, planning, and on-ground execution. The contribution of the Delhi Police is fundamental to that framework. Extending the World Cup experience to their families, alongside young students, reflects our commitment to recognising both operational efforts and the aspirations of the next generation. Article Source: IANS

Yorkshire Sign Australian Quick Jhye Richardson For County Championship Stint

Yorkshire County Cricket Club: Yorkshire County Cricket Club have secured the services of Australian fast bowler Jhye Richardson as an overseas signing for the opening phase of the 2026 County Championship season. The 29-year-old pacer will feature in the initial block of red-ball fixtures, strengthening Yorkshires pace attack as they aim to mount a strong early challenge. Richardson will reunite with fellow Western Australian teammates Sam Whiteman and AJ Tye, who are also part of the countys overseas contingent for the upcoming campaign. Richardson brings valuable international and domestic experience, having represented Australia in four Test matches, including his most recent appearance during the Boxing Day Ashes Test. His standout performance in the longest format came during the 2021 Ashes series, when he claimed impressive figures of 5 for 42 at the Adelaide Oval. Known for his ability to swing the ball both ways and generate pace, Richardson has also taken 122 wickets in first-class cricket at an average of 20. Expressing his enthusiasm about the move, Richardson said, Im really pleased to be joining Yorkshire. The history of the club and of Headingley goes without saying so to be coming here and playing red ball cricket for the first time is an immense privilege. Speaking with the coaches gave me a great sense of what the group are looking to achieve this year and Im ready to get over and get started. Richardson brings valuable international and domestic experience, having represented Australia in four Test matches, including his most recent appearance during the Boxing Day Ashes Test. His standout performance in the longest format came during the 2021 Ashes series, when he claimed impressive figures of 5 for 42 at the Adelaide Oval. Known for his ability to swing the ball both ways and generate pace, Richardson has also taken 122 wickets in first-class cricket at an average of 20. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Jhye is a very impressive bowler who has performed exceptionally well, and he will really complement the team for that important first part of the season. His skillsets are ones suited to English conditions, and he can make things happen with that ability to push his speed into the high 80s. Getting Jhye is a huge boost for us, and his quality underlines our ambition to build a squad capable of seriously competing in the County Championship. Hes a proven player and were thrilled to have secured him, he said in a statement. Article Source: IANS

T20 WC: 'We Kept Losing Wickets, Didnt Get A Partnership Going,' Admits Manenti After Italy's Loss To WI

Captain Harry Manenti: Captain Harry Manenti admitted his side struggled to put together a complete performance and lost wickets at crucial stages despite an encouraging show with the ball as Italy suffered a 42-run defeat against the West Indies in their last group match of the T20 World Cup 2026 here at Eden Gardens on Thursday. West Indies fast bowler Shamar Joseph picked four wickets as Italy were all out for just 123 runs in 18 overs while chasing a 166-run target. Speaking on the defeat, skipper Manenti said, Im really happy with our first few performances with the ball. We all know the power they possess, and to let them on a good wicket with a short side to 166, were really happy. That definitely set us back today and was similar to the England game. We just kept losing wickets in crucial times there today. Didnt quite get a partnership going that was enough to win a game for you today. Manenti, however, took pride in the groups overall effort during the tournament. Im really proud of the whole group. There have been different stages in the tournament where the boys have been able to stand up and show their skill sets, he said. The skipper felt the team showed resilience at different stages of their first T20 World Cup campaign despite falling short of delivering a complete game. I think our ability to stay in a fight for a long period of time, especially when good cricketers and good players like England and the West Indies are able to take a few boundaries down and build some real momentum, and for us to bring it back at certain stages in those last two games has been exciting for us, he said. Manenti, however, accepted that consistency across all phases remains a challenge for the team. We probably havent nailed a full game of cricket yet, which, you know, yes, we were good in the ball, we could have been slightly better. We were good against England, we could have been a lot better and again today, we showed some signs, especially with the ball. We just didnt nail it in the bat today, unfortunately, he noted. He also underlined the importance of sustained support for Associate nations from the International Cricket Council (ICC) and demanded more playing opportunities for the teams to grow further. I think its important for all associate nations to be, you know, funded and well looked after from the top. Its not always easy, and there are obviously portions of money that need to go everywhere. He also underlined the importance of sustained support for Associate nations from the International Cricket Council (ICC) and demanded more playing opportunities for the teams to grow further. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Italy finished their campaign with only one win in four matches. They remained in fourth position in the Group C points table. Article Source: IANS

Hope's 75, Forde and Joseph's wickets help WI go into playoffs unconquered

Italy had their moments in the T20 World Cup game at Eden Gardens, but fell well short and now go back home with the one win against Nepal and a lot of memories to cherish

Harmanpreet Becomes Most-capped Player In Womens International Cricket

ODI World Cup: India captain Harmanpreet Kaur etched her name into the record books on Thursday, becoming the most-capped player in womens international cricket during the second T20I against Australia at the Manuka Oval. The landmark appearance marked Kaurs 356th international match for India, taking her past the previous record of 355 matches held by New Zealand great Suzie Bates. With the record, Kaur now leads the all-time list of international appearances in womens cricket, ahead of Bates, Australias Ellyse Perry (349 matches), and former India captain Mithali Raj (333 matches). England legend Charlotte Edwards rounds out the top five with 309 appearances. Kaur, who made her international debut in 2009, has built an extensive career across all three formats. Her record tally comprises six Tests, 161 ODIs and 189 T20Is, with the milestone match also being her 189th appearance in the T20I format. Kaurs latest milestone adds to an already decorated career defined by leadership and major achievements. She guided India to their maiden ODI World Cup triumph in 2025 and recently oversaw a T20I series win in England. Earlier this month, she was also honoured with the Padma Shri for her outstanding contribution to Indian cricket. India entered the match holding a 1-0 advantage in the three-match T20I series, which is part of a broader multi-format tour that also includes three ODIs and a one-off Test. India registered a 21-run victory over Australia via the DLS method in the first T20I at the Sydney Cricket Ground, thanks largely to a career-best bowling performance from Arundhati Reddy. India entered the match holding a 1-0 advantage in the three-match T20I series, which is part of a broader multi-format tour that also includes three ODIs and a one-off Test. Also Read: Live Cricket Score In reply, India made a strong start with openers Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana adding 50 runs in 5.1 overs. However, heavy rain halted play, and with no further action possible, India were declared the winners under the DLS method. The win gave India an early advantage in the multi-format series Article Source: IANS

T20 WC: West Indies Enter Super 8 Unbeaten After 42-run Win Over Italy

T20 World Cup: Fast bowler Shamar Joseph picked four wickets while Matthew Forde took three as West Indies bowled out Italy for 123 in 18 overs while defending 165 to register a 42-run win in their last group stage match of the T20 World Cup 2026 played at Eden Gardens on Thursday, staying unbeaten and marching into the Super 8s in dominant fashion. Earlier, West Indies skipper Shai Hope continued his great form and played a magnificent knock of 75 runs to take the team to 165/6 in 20 overs against a well-planned Italy bowling attack. Coming to chase a challenging target, Italy had a poor start as they lost their prime batter Justin Mosca (2 off 5) on the seventh ball of the innings. His brother Anthony Mosca was also dismissed in the next over after scoring 19 runs off 12 balls, which included a four and two sixes. Italy's struggles increased further as Matthew Forde took the second wicket of his spell to send Syed Naqvi to the pavilion, leaving 37/3 at the end of powerplay. After a disastrous start, JJ Smuts and Harry Manenti steadied the ship but the latter was dismissed for 8 and Italy were reeling at 61/4 at the halfway mark. Smuts tried to steer the innings with Ben Manenti but got trapped by spinner Gudakesh Motie in the 12th over for 24 runs. Manenti and Grant Stewart tried to put the chase on track with a 25-run partnership off 17 balls, but the West Indies crawled back with back-to-back wickets. Stewart scored 12 runs off seven balls, while Manenti hit 26 runs off 21 balls and also hammered two fours and a six during his innings. Shamar was the most successful bowler for the West Indies, as he finished with figures of 4-30 in four overs, while Forde picked three crucial wickets, followed by Motie, who had two wickets to his name, and Akeal Hossain also picked one wicket. Coming in to bat after losing the toss, the two-time champions, West Indies, were dealt an early blow as opener Brendon King was dismissed on just the seventh ball of the innings. Shimron Hetmyer, who was watching his captain Hope hit the ball hard from the other end, could not follow suit as he was dismissed after scoring just one run off four balls. West Indies were 48/2 at the end of the power play. After two early blows, the West Indies captain forged a 64-run partnership with Roston Chase, who was sent to the pavilion by Thomas Draca in the 13th over. Hope completed his fifty off just 28 balls, and he continued his brilliance at the crease despite losing Chase. As the West Indies were moving towards a big total, Italy made a strong comeback with back-to-back wickets in the span of just three balls. Rowman Powell was trapped by Ben Manenti in the 15th over, while skipper Hope was clean bowled by Crishan Kalugamage in the next over. Hope scored 75 runs off just 46 balls and hammered four sixes and six boundaries during his magnificent knock. As the West Indies were moving towards a big total, Italy made a strong comeback with back-to-back wickets in the span of just three balls. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: West Indies 165/6 in 20 overs (Shai Hope 75, Roston Chase 24, Sherfane Rutherford 24*; Crishan Kalugamage 2-24, Ben Manenti 2-37) beat Italy all out for 123 runs in 18 overs (Ben Manenti 26, JJ Smuts 24; Shamar Joseph 4-30, Matthew Forde 3-25, Gudakesh Motie 2-24) by 42 runs. Article Source: IANS

Sri Lanka opt to bat against Zimbabwe, play Madushanka and Madushan

Both teams are already through to the Super Eight of the T20 World Cup

India's problems with fingerspin could 'be a differentiator' in playoffs, says ten Doeschate

As things stand, we're going to make do with the abundance of left-handers, Ryan ten Doeschate says of India's options

Jhye Richardson joins Yorkshire for start of County Championship

Australian fast bowler available for first six rounds of the County Championship

Gulmarg Set To Showcase Real Impact Of Khelo Bharat Niti During KIWG 2026

Khelo India Winter Games: The upcoming edition of the Khelo India Winter Games in Gulmarg is poised to become a real-world example of the governments ambitious Khelo Bharat Niti, with a visible surge in tourism, local economic activity and national participation ahead of the February 23-26 competition window. Launched by the Union sports ministry in July last year, the Khelo Bharat Niti aims to strengthen Indias sporting ecosystem while leveraging major events to drive economic growth. By promoting infrastructure development, talent identification and international competitiveness, the policy also seeks to boost allied sectors such as tourism, manufacturing and sports technology. That vision is already taking shape in Gulmarg, one of Kashmirs premier winter destinations, where tourist interest has risen sharply in the lead-up to the Games. With Indias top skiers, including Winter Olympians, set to compete, the event has generated enthusiasm across the region, particularly among those whose livelihoods depend on sports tourism. Local businesses have seen a clear uptick in activity. Abeed, a hotelier at Sheen Woods Tangmarg, said bookings had surged weeks before the event. For us, this is more than just tourism. It is our identity. When the Games happen, Gulmarg feels like the heart of the country, he says, pointing to a lobby filled with athletes from Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, Kerala, Telangana and Jammu & Kashmir. You hear different languages at breakfast, he says. It feels like a country in one room. The growth of the Winter Games in Gulmarg reflects a steady upward trajectory. The inaugural edition in 2020 saw 1,123 athletes compete across 13 disciplines, with Jammu & Kashmir topping the medal tally. Participation rose to 1,208 athletes in 2021, with the host region winning 18 gold medals. The 2023 edition marked the peak with 1,395 athletes, as Jammu & Kashmir secured 26 gold, 25 silver and 25 bronze medals. Though the 2024 and 2025 editions featured fewer events and participants, competition intensified, with teams such as the Army, Himachal Pradesh and Karnataka delivering strong performances. Now, as the sixth edition approaches, the focus has shifted from experimentation to legacy-building, especially in reviving tourism after a challenging period. Following the April 22, 2025, terror attack in Pahalgam, domestic tourist arrivals to Kashmir dropped significantly to around 10.47 lakh in 2025, compared to approximately 26 lakh in 2024. However, officials from the tourism department said visitor numbers have rebounded this year, driven by the New Year rush and growing anticipation around the Winter Games. Gulmargs 2,300 hotel and hut beds are already over 50 per cent booked for the event period. Beyond hotels and resorts, the Games are also providing crucial income opportunities for seasonal workers. On the slopes of Kongdoori, sledge pullers Altaf Hussain and Muhammad Rafiq are preparing for the influx of visitors. This is our season, Hussain says, adjusting the ropes over his shoulders. When the games start, Gulmarg comes alive. The duo typically earn between Rs 500 and Rs 1,500 per tourist, depending on distance and time, with daily earnings ranging from Rs 1,500 to Rs 3,000 during peak periods, a stark contrast to lean days when tourist footfall is minimal. This is our season, Hussain says, adjusting the ropes over his shoulders. When the games start, Gulmarg comes alive. Also Read: Live Cricket Score As Gulmarg prepares to host another major winter sporting spectacle, the Khelo India Winter Games are emerging as more than just a competition. They represent a tangible demonstration of how sports policy can energise local economies, strengthen national sporting culture and reaffirm Gulmargs place as Indias winter sports capital. Article Source: IANS

T20 WC: Chakaravarthy Wins 'impact Player Of The Match' After India's 17-run Win Vs Netherlands

T20 World Cup: Indias mystery spinner Varun Chakaravarthy was named the Impact Player of the Match after producing a decisive spell in the last group stage match of the T20 World Cup 2026 against the Netherlands at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Wednesday. Chakaravarthy returned with impressive figures of 3-14 in his three overs, playing a key role in Indias 17-run triumph. Defending 194, India restricted the Netherlands to 176/7 in their 20 overs to register their fourth consecutive win in the group stage. Team Indias strength and conditioning coach, Adrian Le Roux, presented Chakaravarthy with the medal in the dressing room. Reflecting on the performance and the way ahead, the spinner said, The real tournament starts with the next match. We have to get ready for that. Chakaravarthy removed Max ODowd and Colin Ackermann before dismissing Aryan Dutt for a golden duck, halting the Netherlands progress at crucial moments. His disciplined bowling ensured that the required rate kept climbing despite a late fightback from the opposition. Varun has been in great form in the ongoing tournament. The spinner has picked nine wickets in the four games and has been the highest wicket-taker for India so far. Earlier, India opted to bat after winning the toss but suffered early setbacks as Abhishek Sharma fell for a duck and Ishan Kishan managed 18. Tilak Varma (31 off 27) and Suryakumar Yadav (34 off 28) found it difficult to accelerate in the middle overs. Varun has been in great form in the ongoing tournament. The spinner has picked nine wickets in the four games and has been the highest wicket-taker for India so far. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Unbeaten India is placed in a tough group in the Super 8s. The defending champions will face South Africa, the West Indies and Zimbabwe in the next round. Article Source: IANS

India choose to bowl, Amanjot replaced Patil, Australia unchanged

Harmanpreet Kaur won the toss on a good surface in Canberra as India hope to close out the T20I series

Kasaragod Cricket Ground Gets HC Relief As Stay On Demolition Extended

Kerala Cricket Association: In a significant relief to the Kerala Cricket Association (KCA), the Kerala High Court has observed that the cricket ground constructed at Badiadka in Kasaragod serves a public purpose and that the State government must treat the issue with due seriousness. The court also ordered that the interim stay on demolition of the ground, imposed over alleged encroachment, will continue until a final decision is taken. The Court directed the Principal Secretaries of the Local Self-Government and Revenue Departments to arrive at a final decision within four months. The court made it clear that its interim order restraining coercive action would remain in force until the government completes this exercise. The order came while considering a petition filed by the KCA challenging proceedings initiated on the basis of a District Collectors report that alleged encroachment on 1.09 acres of government land. The court accepted the associations argument that the finding was not based on a scientific survey. The High Court said the KCA may formally request the government to conduct a scientific survey of the disputed land. If such a request is made, the competent authority must carry out a proper survey, and the government must directly examine the resulting report and sketch before taking a final view. Addressing allegations that 40 cents of puramboke (government-owned) canal land had been encroached upon during construction, the KCA informed the court that the land was already reclaimed at the time of purchase and that no canal was evident then. It also cited the Collectors report stating that diversion of the canal had not adversely affected water flow. Addressing allegations that 40 cents of puramboke (government-owned) canal land had been encroached upon during construction, the KCA informed the court that the land was already reclaimed at the time of purchase and that no canal was evident then. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Yes, this ruling has come as a relief for KCA. We are certain that things will clear up, said Kumar. Article Source: IANS

Bas de Leede reiterates demand for 'more opportunities against the big teams'

We can only hope this World Cup may change that, Bas de Leede says of the Associates' struggle to perform consistently against the Full Members

J&K makes historic entry into Maiden Ranji Trophy Final; beats Bengal by 6 wickets

J&K scripted cricketing history by defeating Bengal by six wickets to enter the Ranji Trophy final for the first time. Powered by a nine-wicket match haul from Auqib Nabi and a composed unbeaten knock from Vanshaj Sharma, J&K sealed a memorable victory despite early hiccups in the chase.

13th Ladakh Marathon To Be Held From Sep 10 To 13, Registrations Begins

The Khardung La Challenge: Ladakh Marathon, the world's highest AIMS-certified marathon, will return for its 13th edition in 2026, taking place amid the stark and rugged terrain of Ladakh from September 10 to 13. Registrations for all six races of the Ladakh Marathon, including the curated Silk Route Ultra (122km) and Khardung La Challenger (72km) ultra races, opened on Thursday and can be applied to through the official website. Beyond the two ultras, the event will feature the Marathon (42km), Half Marathon (21km), 11.2km Run, and the 5km Run for Fun. Age eligibility ranges from 12 years for the 5km to 24 years for the Silk Route Ultra, calculated as of September 13, 2026. All timed races require qualifying performances achieved within the prescribed window to match the rigour demanded by racing at over 11,500 feet in thin air. Acclimatisation is compulsory for all runners, with ultra runners required to arrive in Leh at least 10 days before race day in order to participate. The Khardung La Challenge and Silk Route Ultra remain application-based and strictly capped. Climbing to 17,618 feet at Khardung La, these races are reserved for runners with proven marathon and ultra-distance credentials, subject to document verification and mandatory medical clearance. Speaking on the announcement, Chewang Motup Goba, Chairperson of the High Altitude Sports Foundation and founder of the Ladakh Marathon, said, Running in Ladakh is not defined by distance alone. At this altitude, every step is shaped by terrain, thin air, and the mountains terms. It demands preparation, discipline, and respect for conditions that are far beyond the ordinary. The eligibility criteria are therefore not procedural; they are protective. They ensure that every runner who stands on that start line has proven capability, understands the risks, and is ready for one of the toughest endurance challenges in the world. In 2025, the Ladakh Marathon, including the ultras, saw participation from at least one runner representing each of Indias 36 States and Union Territories for the first time, underlining its place as a truly national endurance platform set in the Himalayas. Speaking on the announcement, Chewang Motup Goba, Chairperson of the High Altitude Sports Foundation and founder of the Ladakh Marathon, said, Running in Ladakh is not defined by distance alone. At this altitude, every step is shaped by terrain, thin air, and the mountains terms. It demands preparation, discipline, and respect for conditions that are far beyond the ordinary. The eligibility criteria are therefore not procedural; they are protective. They ensure that every runner who stands on that start line has proven capability, understands the risks, and is ready for one of the toughest endurance challenges in the world. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The Ladakh Marathon also deploys dry pit sanitation systems along the course to minimise water usage, a conscious step in a region where water scarcity is emerging as a defining challenge of the future. Together, these measures reinforce that at high altitude, sport and environmental responsibility must go hand in hand. Article Source: IANS

T20 WC: Italy Restrict Windies To 165/6 Despite Hope's 75

Skipper Shai Hope: Skipper Shai Hope continued his great form with a knock of 75 runs, powering West Indies to 165/6 against a well-planned Italy bowling attack in the final Group C match of the T20 World Cup 2026 played at Eden Gardens on Thursday. Coming in to bat after losing the toss, the two-time champions, West Indies, were dealt an early blow as opener Brendon King, who has been struggling for runs in the tournament, was dismissed on just the seventh ball of the innings. King scored just 4 runs off six balls. His opening partner Hope did not let Italy build on the momentum after the early blow, as he smashed four boundaries and a six in the next two overs. Shimron Hetmyer could not follow suit, as he was dismissed cheaply for one, as the West Indies were 48/2 at the end of the powerplay. After two early blows, the Windies captain forged a 64-run partnership with Roston Chase (24), which helped the team reach near the three-figure mark by the 12th over. Hope played the dominant role in the partnership by attacking the spinners, while Chase rotated the strike well. Italy finally got the breakthrough in the 13th over when Chase was sent packing by Thomas Draca. Meanwhile, Hope completed his fifty off just 28 balls and continued his brilliance at the crease despite losing Chase. As the West Indies were moving towards a big total, Italy made a strong comeback with back-to-back wickets in the span of just three balls. Rowman Powell was trapped by Ben Manenti in the 15th over, while skipper Hope was clean bowled by Crishan Kalugamage in the next over. Hope hammered four sixes and six boundaries during his magnificent knock. All-rounder Jason Holder could not continue his momentum against Italy, as he was dismissed for just nine runs off seven balls. Sherfane Rutherford scored 24 off 15, while Matthew Forde made 16 off 8, as the duo provided a good finish with a 28-run partnership that came off just 14 balls. As the West Indies were moving towards a big total, Italy made a strong comeback with back-to-back wickets in the span of just three balls. Rowman Powell was trapped by Ben Manenti in the 15th over, while skipper Hope was clean bowled by Crishan Kalugamage in the next over. Hope hammered four sixes and six boundaries during his magnificent knock. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: West Indies 165/6 in 20 overs (Shai Hope 75, Roston Chase 24, Sherfane Rutherford 24*; Crishan Kalugamage 2-24, Ben Manenti 2-37) against Italy. Article Source: IANS

GT Batter Sai Sudharsan Recovers From Rib Injury, Begins IPL 2026 Preparations Alongside Captain Gill

Miraj International Cricket Stadium: Gujarat Titans batter B Sai Sudharsan, who faced a lengthy spell on the sidelines after sustaining a right rib fracture during Tamil Nadu's Vijay Hazare Trophy match against Madhya Pradesh in Ahmedabad last December, has started his preparations for the IPL 2026 alongside skipper Shubman Gill. GT have begun their IPL 2026 preparations in full swing with a pre-season camp led by head coach Ashish Nehra and assistant coach Parthiv Patel at Miraj International Cricket Stadium in Nathdwara. Sudharsan, who has played six Tests and three ODIs for India, has fractured the anterior cortex of the seventh right rib while diving to complete a run in the match. The southpaw then checked in at the BCCIs Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, where he underwent rehab. The left-hander has formed a successful opening partnership for Gujarat Titans alongside captain Gill, making his availability crucial to the franchise's plans, especially considering he was the leading run-getter in IPL 2025. Titans had retained as many as 20 players, including Gill and Sudharsan, who played pivotal roles in guiding the team to the IPL Playoffs last season. Apart from Gill and Sudharsan, Mohammed Siraj, Washington Sundar, Prasidh Krishna, Sai Kishore, Shahrukh Khan, Rahul Tewatia, Ishant Sharma, Jayant Yadav, Manav Suthar, Kumar Kushagra, Anuj Rawat, Gurnoor Brar, Arshad Khan and Nishant Sindhu will once again don the Titans jersey. The left-hander has formed a successful opening partnership for Gujarat Titans alongside captain Gill, making his availability crucial to the franchise's plans, especially considering he was the leading run-getter in IPL 2025. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The 2022 champions strengthened their squad with five new additions as they roped in West Indies all-rounder Jason Holder, Englands wicketkeeper-batter Tom Banton, talented Indian fast bowler Ashok Sharma, England left-arm pacer Luke Wood and uncapped Indian speedster Prithvi Raj during the mini auction held last December. Article Source: IANS

Boland's six dismantles WA to book Victoria home Sheffield Shield final

The Test quick claimed the first five wickets in the second innings as the visitors surged to a huge win in Perth

T20 WC: Mahi Bhai Told Me Its Not Necessary To Hit Sixes Every Time,' Says Dube After Match-winning Knock Against Netherlands

Narendra Modi Stadium: India all-rounder Shivam Dube credited former skipper MS Dhoni for bringing clarity to his batting approach after he played a match-winning 67-run knock against the Netherlands at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Wednesday. Dube admitted that he initially struggled against pace bowling during the early phase of his career, but Dhoni's advice about strike rotation and smart intent has significantly improved his game in pressure situations. When I first came into the IPL, I struggled against fast bowlers and wasnt striking the ball cleanly. I realised that if I want to dominate at this level and I have the power, I needed to work on that aspect. I put in significant effort during the off-season. Mahi bhai told me that its not necessary to hit sixes every time. Boundaries and strike rotation are equally important. That clarity has helped me. If I get a good ball, I look for a boundary or rotate strike. In the death overs, I will naturally go harder, but early in the innings, my focus is on smart intent, Dube told Jio Hotstar. Speaking about handling high-pressure moments, Dube emphasised the importance of batting deep and playing according to the teams requirements. I dont feel pressure; I focus on the situation. If wickets fall, my responsibility is to bat deep. If I stay till the end, I know I can add 1015 crucial runs in the final over. I avoid taking unnecessary risks in the middle overs. If the situation demands stability, I rotate strike. If the platform is set, Im ready to attack from the first ball, he said. Speaking about handling high-pressure moments, Dube emphasised the importance of batting deep and playing according to the teams requirements. Also Read: Live Cricket Score He was also clinical with the ball, as the medium pacer took two wickets by conceding 35 runs in three overs. Courtesy of his all-around performance, he was awarded the player of the match. Article Source: IANS