Cricket News
View News by News Source
Ashwell Prince: De Kock's return as 'massive' as Rohit and Kohli's
Quinton de Kock reversed his white-ball retirement earlier this year, and scored 239 runs at 119.5 during three ODIs in Pakistan
IND vs SA: Stats Preview ahead of the India vs South Africa 1st ODI in Ranchi
IND vs SA 1st ODI,ODI Approaching Milestones and Records :The Indian cricket team and the South African cricket team are ready to take on each other in the three-match ODI series. These two are coming off a Test series, which South Africa won 2-0. So, the Proteas will be having the momentum, and they will look to carry it on into the ODI series. Team India will see the returns of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who are retired from the other two formats. Ravindra Jadeja is also back in ODIs, after missing the Australian series. Rishabh Pant will also be back in this format. Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer are injured, and Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah are rested. India will be without some of their key players. South Africa are also without their premier players like Lungi Ngidi, David Miller, Gerald Coetzee, and others. So, that will even out the things for this game. South Africa have the momentum, and India have the home conditions. Both teams will be keen to win the game and start the ODI series with a lead. There are a few records on the line as well.Here, we will talk about big records and milestones which are lined up and can be achieved in the India vs South Africa1st ODI clash at JSCA International Cricket Stadium. IND vs SA 1st ODI: Approaching Test Records and ODI Cricket Milestones Ahead of the IND vs SA1st ODI atJSCA Cricket Stadium 1 - De Kock has six centuries against India, which is the joint-most in IND vs SA ODI history. If he can score one more, he will surpass AB de Villiers. Virat also has five hundreds against South Africa.- South African captain Temba Bavuma has 1941 runs in 53 ODIs. He needs 59 more runs to complete 2000 ODI runs in his career. 5 - Marco Jansen needs five more wickets to complete 50 ODI wickets in his career. 4 - Kuldeep Yadav has 346 wickets for India in international cricket. Four more wickets will help him to become only the 11th Indian to take 350 international wickets. 98 - Rohit Sharma scored a century in his last ODI innings. Now, if he can play another big innings and score 98 runs, he will complete 20000 runs in international cricket. He will be only the fourth Indian to do so. 76 - Quinton de Kock has scored three consecutive 50+ scores in Pakistan. He is just 76 runs away from completing 13000 international runs in his career. 3 - Rohit has 349 sixes in ODIs. He needs three more to surpass Shahid Afridi (351) and will have the most sixes in ODI cricket ever. Also Read: Live Cricket Score 32 - Virat Kohli has the third-most runs in IND vs SA ODIs. He needs 32 more runs to surpass Jacques Kallis (1535) to become the second-highest scorer in IND vs SA ODIs after Sachin Tendulkar (2001).
India vs South Africa, 1st ODI - Who will win today IND vs SA match?
IND vs SA , 1st ODI , Cricket Tips :The Test series against South Africa was a nightmare for India, and they were totally embarrassed. The wounds are still fresh as India head into the ODI series against the Proteas. The first game is scheduled for Sunday at JSCA International Cricket, starting at 1:30 PM IST. KL Rahul is all set to lead the side, as Shubman Gill is not available due to injury. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will be back, which will attract more eyeballs for this game. That will give the Indian batting unit more strength. South Africa also have their best squad, and it will be a hard-fought battle between two great sides. IND vs SA: Match Details Date : November 30, 2025 (Sunday) Time : 1:30 PM IST Venue : JSCA International Stadium, Ranchi IND vs SA: Live Streaming Details The live action of the first ODI between India and South Africa will be live on Star Sports Networks. Fans can also watch the game on the Jio Hotstar app or website. IND vs SA: Head-to-Head Total Matches : 94 India : 40 South Africa : 51 No-Result : 03 IND vs SA: Ground Pitch Report JSCA International Cricket Stadium is a good batting venue, where batters can play their shots. Traditionally, the wicket gets slow, and spinners come into play as the game progresses. The toss will be crucial, and batting second can be an advantage here. IND vs SA: Possible XIs India : Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul (c & wk), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Tilak Varma, Virat Kohli, Washington Sundar, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Ravindra Jadeja, Harshit Rana, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh South Africa : Ryan Rickelton, Quinton de Kock (wk), Aiden Markram, Temba Bavuma (C), Matthew Breetzke, Dewald Brevis, Tony de Zorzi, Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, Keshav Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi IND vs SA: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Rohit Sharma is the no. 1 ranked ODI batter and will be key for India at the top. For South Africa, Ryan Rickelton is in good form in this format. Probable Best Bowler Kuldeep Yadav has excellent numbers against South Africa in ODIs. He will be the key for India. For South Africa, Keshav Maharaj will get good help from this wicket. Today Match Prediction : South Africa are looking more settled than India in this series. But home conditions will be in India's favor and we predict India to win this game. IND vs SA Match 2nd Test, Today Match IND vs SA, IND vs SA Prediction, IND vs SA Predicted XIs, Injury Update of the match between India vs South Africa 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.
Du Plessis withdraws from IPL 2026 auction to play PSL
Du Plessis has 154 IPL appearances and has won two titles with Chennai Super Kings
President Droupadi Murmu: President Droupadi Murmu met the World Cup-winning Indian womens blind cricket team at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Saturday, where she was presented with an autographed cricket bat by the players and support staff. Indian team made history by winning the first-ever Blind Women's T20 World Cup in Sri Lanka, beating Nepal by seven wickets in the final. Indian Blind Womens Cricket Team, winner of the first-ever Blind Womens T20 World Cup, called on President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan. The team presented the President with an autographed cricket bat. The President congratulated the team members on winning the T20 World Cup and said their success would inspire others to scale new heights in their lives and careers. The President also signed a cricket ball presented by the team on the occasion, the President of India posted on X. Opting to field first after winning the toss, India restricted Nepal to 114 for 5 in their 20 overs. The chase was nothing short of clinical as India surpassed the target in just 12.1 overs with 47 balls to spare. Khula Sharir emerged as the stand-out performer, scoring an unbeaten 44 off 27 balls, including four boundaries, to guide India home comfortably. In the semi-final, India secured a commanding nine-wicket victory over Australia, while Nepal advanced to the final by narrowly defeating Pakistan in the other last-four encounter. Opting to field first after winning the toss, India restricted Nepal to 114 for 5 in their 20 overs. The chase was nothing short of clinical as India surpassed the target in just 12.1 overs with 47 balls to spare. Khula Sharir emerged as the stand-out performer, scoring an unbeaten 44 off 27 balls, including four boundaries, to guide India home comfortably. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Indias emphatic title run not only highlights their consistency but also marks a major milestone for blind cricket, paving the way for increased recognition and growth of the sport in the coming years. Article Source: IANS
As South Africans: South Africa batting coach Ashwell Prince emphasised the importance of pressure on the Proteas performing at clutch moments ahead of the first ODI against India at JSCA Stadium. Proteas come on the heels of whitewashing hosts India at home and winning a Test series 2-0. They first beat India by 30 runs in Kolkata and then by 408 runs in Guwahati. Prince highlighted the performance of red-ball series but cautioned the Proteas to improve on performing in high-pressure environments. I think at the moment the squad has focused predominantly on Test cricket and, as far as white-ball cricket is concerned, a lot of the focus has been on T20 with the World Cup coming up soon. So in the 50-over space, weve been able to try different combinations. Id say were doing pretty well in both batting and bowling departments. If theres one area we could improve, its the bigger moments tighter moments, clutch moments. White-ball cricket is about high-pressure environments, intensity, and playing those moments well. With conditions likely to favour batters in Ranchi, dew is expected to come play in the later part of the innings, team batting first will look to put big score on the board. Our homework tells us theres a lot of dew expected. Teams tend to prefer chasing if they win the toss. But if you get a good pitch upfront and post a massive score, it can affect the chasing team because they feel they have to start at a high tempo and thats when you can lose wickets. If we bat first, well need to post a formidable score to apply pressure. India's two white-ball superstars, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma return to international cricket after the Australia tour. However, their performances did not quite match expectations on that occasion. Now, with conditions favourable and with both having a point to prove, fans are eager to see their bats do the talking once again. No, I wouldnt say its extra pressure. As South Africans touring India, its always exciting. With those two names in the line-up, we expect a full house and thats exciting. We try to focus on what damage we can cause the opposition rather than how they can hurt us. Theyre world-class, theyre dangerous, but the focus is on our strengths and how we impose our game. Itd be nice to carry the momentum, but theres personnel change in both teams, so the Series will have a different feel. All formats are important on a tour like this and wed like to keep the momentum going. India, meanwhile, are missing the services of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer, presenting KL Rahul and coach Gautam Gambhir with a mix of openings and headaches as they shape the squads immediate future. All around, India have a fantastic team in both batting and bowling. The results will hinge on crucial moments in matches. Playing those moments well is important. Prince also acknowledged the momentum Proteas carry with them after winning Test series but white-ball tour comes with a reset buttton for them ahead of T20 World Cup 2026. The most important thing for us is our mentality. Historically, South African teams came here and the conditions felt foreign. These days our players tour the subcontinent more, even in shorter formats, so conditions arent as foreign. Whats important is not to pre-empt how a pitch will play. A keyword for us is adaptability whatever the conditions are on the day, we adapt our style accordingly. Its not lost on anyone how massive that achievement was. We certainly enjoyed the evening afterwards. I cant give you too much detail about the enjoyment. The most important thing for us is our mentality. Historically, South African teams came here and the conditions felt foreign. These days our players tour the subcontinent more, even in shorter formats, so conditions arent as foreign. Whats important is not to pre-empt how a pitch will play. A keyword for us is adaptability whatever the conditions are on the day, we adapt our style accordingly. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Welcoming Quinton de Kock, Prince said, Hes massive. Just like Rohit and Virat strengthen India, Quinny has a similar effect for us. His experience and the quality he showed in Pakistan boosts the dressing room. Weve got quite a few young left-handers and young players. For them to sit with him, talk to him, and bat with him out in the middle does a lot for their growth. Hes a big influence for us. Article Source: IANS
BCB drop several players from BPL auction after inquiry committee report
The committee was formed following last season's BPL when several allegations of corruption surfaced
Shaheen replaces Wasim as Pakistan field in tri-series final
Sri Lanka have made no changes, with batter Pavan Rathnayake retaining his spot
Stands To Be Named After Harmanpreet Kaur And Yuvraj Singh At PCA Stadium
Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket: Officiating Secretary of the Punjab Cricket Association (PCA), Siddhant Sharma, has revealed that the PCA Stadium in New Chandigarh will have two new stands being inaugurated in honour of India captain Harmanpreet Kaur and former all-rounder Yuvraj Singh. Before the 4th T20I between India and South Africa at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur, Chandigarh, the Indian womens teams World Cup-winning captain will be honoured for her recent achievements, with a stand being named after her. Additionally, another stand will be inaugurated to celebrate the career of legendary former all-rounder Yuvraj. Harmanpreet Kaur will be honoured for her achievement in winning the World Cup and we have announced that a stand will be named after her. On the 11th, during the IndiaSouth Africa match, we will inaugurate it. Along with that, a stand named after our former player and two-time World Cup champion, Yuvraj Singh, will also be inaugurated on the same day, Siddhant Sharma told IANS on Saturday. Before the 4th T20I between India and South Africa at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur, Chandigarh, the Indian womens teams World Cup-winning captain will be honoured for her recent achievements, with a stand being named after her. Additionally, another stand will be inaugurated to celebrate the career of legendary former all-rounder Yuvraj. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Harmanpreet Kaur led Team India to a historic victory at the Womens World Cup in Navi Mumbai on November 2 as the Women in Blue lifted their first-ever ICC title. Article Source: IANS
Kellaway enhances his credentials with top score for Prime Minister's XI
Nathan McSweeney and Oliver Peake also struck half-centuries while Matthew Potts claimed two wickets
Ireland opt to bat in second T20I against Bangladesh, replace Campher with Calitz
Bangladesh made three changes by bringing in Mahedi Hasan, Mohammad Saifuddin and Nurul Hasan
Massive Privilege For Current South African Team To Go Up Against Virat And Rohit: Steyn
South African: On the eve of the first ODI between India and South Africa, former Proteas pacer Dale Steyn praised the impact of senior Indian stars Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, calling their presence both a significant challenge and a privilege for the visiting side. Speaking ahead of the series opener, Steyn highlighted not only the players experience but also the enormous fan energy they bring with them, something he believes significantly influences the contest. They bring a ton of experience. I think the other thing is they bring a massive crowd and fan following, which is always one of the biggest things that you're playing against when you come to India. Recently, when the ladies were playing in the final, the Women's World Cup final against India, the Proteas women felt like they weren't just playing against 11, they were playing against an entire nation. Referring specifically to the aura of Indias senior-most batting icons, the former Protea quick added, And that's obviously the same case when somebody like Virat and Rohit are part of the Indian men's team. They just bring so much more to them. So when you're out in the middle, you really feel the heat. Steyn, regarded as one of the greatest fast bowlers of his generation, said that facing stalwarts like Kohli and Rohit is a valuable opportunity for the current South African side. Referring specifically to the aura of Indias senior-most batting icons, the former Protea quick added, And that's obviously the same case when somebody like Virat and Rohit are part of the Indian men's team. They just bring so much more to them. So when you're out in the middle, you really feel the heat. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India and South Africa will begin their ODI battle in Ranchi on Sunday, and the series will then move to Raipur and Visakhapatnam for the second and third games. Article Source: IANS
BCB Drops Eight Players From Draft Ahead Of Auction
The Bangladesh Cricket Board: The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has excluded at least eight domestic cricketers from the final Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) players draft after its integrity unit raised concerns over their conduct during the tournaments last edition. The decision follows internal investigations into alleged match-fixing activities. A senior BPL governing council official confirmed that the board is determined to keep anyone under suspicion out of the upcoming seasons draft in an effort to avoid a repeat of past controversies. According to the updated draft list circulated to BPL franchises on Sundayreviewed by this publicationthe names removed were previously included in the preliminary draft. The omissions were made based on a report from the BCBs integrity unit, led by Alex Marshall. Among those left out are Bangladesh internationals Anamul Haque Bijoy, Mosaddek Hossain, Shofiul Islam, Alauddin Babu, Sunzamul Islam, Mizanur Rahman, Nihaduzzaman, and Munir Hasan Khan. They are omitted from the list as per the report of the integrity unit, as they were found in the red flag zone and we cannot tell anything further in this regard, a board official told Cricbuzz. The shake-up comes in the aftermath of a comprehensive 900-page report submitted by an independent three-member inquiry committee formed after widespread fixing allegations surfaced during the previous BPL season. The committee reportedly identified 18 to 19 individualsincluding eight to ten playerswho were suspected of varying levels of involvement. They are omitted from the list as per the report of the integrity unit, as they were found in the red flag zone and we cannot tell anything further in this regard, a board official told Cricbuzz. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Former Bangladesh captain Tamim Iqbal had previously decided not to participate in the upcoming BPL, making it the first time since the tournament began in 2012 that he will be absent. Article Source: IANS
WPL Auction Had Special Significance Attached Due To Recent Success Of Womens Team: Saikia
DY Patil Stadium: BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia said the recent success of the Indian womens team lent special significance to the WPL auction held on Thursday, adding that the tournament can take womens cricket to a different level in the coming years. The WPLs first-ever mega auction in New Delhi on Thursday saw 67 players picked, including 23 overseas cricketers, with all five franchises collectively spending Rs 40.8 crore. The fourth season of the WPL will run from January 9 to February 5, with DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai set to host the first 11 games, before the action shifts to the Kotambi Stadium in Vadodara. This WPL auction has actually become very significant after the recent victory of the Indian team. So that has opened up the gateway for Indian girls to grow bigger and bigger in their careers. Thats why this auction gets a special significance because of the recent success of Indian women, said Saikia in a video posted by WPL on their X account on Saturday. He also pointed out that having USA pacer Tara Norris shows that WPL is helping associate nation players rub shoulders with the best in the world. Norris had been with the Delhi Capitals in WPL 2023 and even picked a five-wicket haul. She will now represent UP Warriorz in WPL 2026. This WPL auction has actually become very significant after the recent victory of the Indian team. So that has opened up the gateway for Indian girls to grow bigger and bigger in their careers. Thats why this auction gets a special significance because of the recent success of Indian women, said Saikia in a video posted by WPL on their X account on Saturday. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Now after this World Cup victory, a lot of big names are being part of WPL as well as Indian cricket. So you can see ChatGPT and other companies are joining this league and this shows how the game is growing bigger and bigger and I'm sure this will take women's cricket to a different level in the coming years, added Saikia. Article Source: IANS
Ashes: Mark Wood Ruled Out Of Brisbane Test
Allan Border Field: England will be without Mark Wood for the second Ashes Test in Brisbane after renewed concerns over the fast bowlers left knee, dealing a significant blow to their hopes of levelling the series. Wood, 35, had only just returned to Test cricket in last weeks heavy defeat in Perth following surgery that kept him out for nine months. He managed just 11 overs before England slumped to a two-day loss, an outcome not seen in an Ashes match for more than a century. The injury-prone paceman did not take part in Englands training session at Allan Border Field on Saturday morning, the only member of the squad absent. His omission all but confirms he will sit out of Thursdays day-night Test at the Gabba. Josh Tongue will be the front-runner to replace him. The Worcestershire seamer is currently in Canberra with the England Lions, alongside Matthew Potts and Jacob Bethell, for a match against the Prime Ministers XI. For Wood, the setback is yet another chapter in a career repeatedly disrupted by fitness problems. Before the Perth Test, he had not played red-ball cricket for England in 15 months due to an elbow injury followed by knee surgery. Even his warm-up appearance for the Lions before the series raised alarm when he left the field with hamstring tightness, though scans later ruled out damage. Despite going wicketless in Perth, Woods presence allowed England to unleash the high-pace strategy they had long planned for Australia. Their five-seamer attack produced the fastest collective day of bowling in the teams Test history on day one. But speeds dipped the following day as Australia raced to an eight-wicket win. For Wood, the setback is yet another chapter in a career repeatedly disrupted by fitness problems. Before the Perth Test, he had not played red-ball cricket for England in 15 months due to an elbow injury followed by knee surgery. Even his warm-up appearance for the Lions before the series raised alarm when he left the field with hamstring tightness, though scans later ruled out damage. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Australia will also have the advantage of Mitchell Starc, widely regarded as the worlds most effective bowler with the pink ball. While the pink ball behaves similarly to the red, its reduced visibility under lights poses challenges England have yet to conquer- challenges that now look steeper without their fastest bowler on hand. Article Source: IANS
Kieron Pollard to captain MI Emirates in ILT20
He takes over from Nicholas Pooran for the upcoming season of the ILT20
Wood set to miss second Test after long road back from injury
Josh Tongue will be the favourite to come into the side for the pink-ball Test at the Gabba
Stokes takes the lead as England look to hit reset on Ashes
The England captain insisted it was not a skill issue that caused the meltdown in Perth as the tourists plot their fightback
Dont Have A Definitive Answer To Indias Batting Issues Against Spinners, Says KL Rahul
JSCA International Stadium: Ahead of the ODI series against South Africa, Indias stand-in captain KL Rahul admitted he does not have a definitive answer to the sides batting struggles against spinners, adding that the batters are already trying to find solutions to this issue. India come into the ODI series, starting at the JSCA International Stadium on Sunday, on the back of a 2-0 series defeat in Tests, where their batting issues against spinners came to the fore yet again. I cannot give you a definitive answer. I can only say that we have not been able to play spinners well. We understand and recognise that this is a part of our game and that we are not able to play better against spin bowling. You spoke about Gavaskar sir speaking on the issue - we can talk to him and understand what we need to do better against spin. We are already trying to find ways to improve. I dont think it will happen overnight. I don't know the answer as to why we used to play earlier and why we don't play well now. There are many reasons for this. But we can only think about how we can do better as players and individually, how can we get better and when such a situation comes back, in the next 6-7 months our series will be in Sri Lanka and then the Indian home series will be in Australia - so, how can we do better? What are the technical changes we need to make? These are the things that we individually try to seek answers and try to do better. That's all we can do and we used to play very well against spin bowling. So, maybe we will reach out to those players and our seniors and try to learn from them, said Rahul in the pre-match press conference. In Guwahati, Rahul reached out to an off-break from an off-spinner, but was undone by the drift and dip, resulting in him being castled. Asked if he had any regret over not taking the aggressive shot at that time, Rahul said he had no such regrets. No, there's no regret of not trying a different shot. There's a regret of executing what I did. It is a Test format. At the stage that I was playing, it was the last few overs of the day. I dont think thats the right time for me to try and step down and hit the bowler for a boundary. Looking back, maybe I would have but it was only the second ball of the over. If I had stepped down and gotten out, maybe that would have been a question mark in my own head as to whether that was right or wrong. At that point in time, I think defending was the right option to do which I didn't do well enough. That's what I take away from that dismissal, he added. No, there's no regret of not trying a different shot. There's a regret of executing what I did. It is a Test format. At the stage that I was playing, it was the last few overs of the day. I dont think thats the right time for me to try and step down and hit the bowler for a boundary. Looking back, maybe I would have but it was only the second ball of the over. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The conversation has been about how we haven't played a lot of one-day matches since the Champions Trophy. So, it'll be important that we catch that rhythm and try to get that momentum of playing one-day cricket and performing in ODI cricket. We've all played, so we'll keep talking about what tactical changes we'll have to make and how we'll have to play with the mindset. We'll try to do the same, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
'Look forward to enjoying responsibility' - Rahul steps into the hot seat
In the absence of the injured Gill, Rahul will captain India in the upcoming three-match ODI series against South Africa
1st ODI: Ro-Ko Return But India Face Selection Dilemma With Jaiswal, Gaikwad
JSCA International Stadium Complex: India face several selection dilemmas as they gear up to meet South Africa in the opening ODI of the three-match series in Ranchi on Sunday, a match that doubles as an essential proving ground for the senior batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. With just six ODIs scheduled over the next couple of months, each outing carries weight for the two veterans, who now focus exclusively on the 50-over format. Ranchi adds a layer of poignancy for Rohit: it was here in 2013 that he was entrusted with the role of full-time opener. Eleven years on, he arrives again in search of a fresh chapter. India, meanwhile, are missing the services of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer, presenting KL Rahul and coach Gautam Gambhir with a mix of openings and headaches as they shape the squads immediate future. Riding the momentum of their recent Test series win, South Africa turn to rising quicks Gerald Coetzee and Nandre Burger to lead the pace attack, with Keshav Maharaj providing stability and control through spin. Energised and in form, the visitors arrive as a formidable threat in the limited-overs arena. For India, the buildup has been complicated by the absence of captain Shubman Gill, sidelined by a neck injury. KL Rahul steps back into the leadership role, but the larger concern lies at the top of the order. Gills injury has opened a sizeable gap, and the selectors have placed their bets on Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ruturaj Gaikwad, two openers at very different stages of their journey. Gaikwad returns to the national setup after 16 months, powered by an impressive run against South Africa A that has reignited his claim to an ODI spot. Jaiswal, meanwhile, keeps his place after the Australia tour despite not featuring in a single game, with the management clearly mindful of his explosive potential. The series stands as a crossroads for both. With the next ODI World Cup only two years away, India are already confronting a looming question: who succeeds Rohit at the top once the veteran enters the twilight of his career? Jaiswal offers bold stroke play, left-handed variety, and fearlessness; Gaikwad brings composure, repeatable technique, and the confidence of recent form. Both are compelling, but only one may get the inside track. What unfolds over the next few matches could shape Indias white-ball blueprint well beyond this series. For Jaiswal and Gaikwad, these games are more than opportunities; theyre auditions for one of the most prized roles in Indian cricket. And as the spotlight sharpens, the contest between them may end up being the most intriguing subplot of Indias bid to strike back against the Proteas. India, still smarting from a 0-2 Test whitewash, now turn to the ODI series against South Africa with a sense of unfinished business. The visitors, who arrived with modest expectations, stunned the hosts in the longer format and have quickly transformed into one of the stories of the tour. Temba Bavumas confident unit now aims to extend its dominance into the white-ball leg. When: Sunday, November 30, 1:30 PM IST Where: JSCA International Stadium Complex, Ranchi 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 South Africa: Temba Bavuma (captain), Ottneil Baartman, Corbin Bosch, Matthew Breetzke, Dewald Brevis, Nandre Burger, Quinton de Kock, Tony de Zorzi, Rubin Hermann, Keshav Maharaj, Marco Jansen, Aiden Markram, Lungi Ngidi, Ryan Rickelton, Prenelan Subrayen. Article Source: IANS
If Dhoni Comes To Watch The Match, Well Get More Excited, Says Rahul Ahead Of Ranchi ODI
JSCA International Stadium: Stand-in skipper KL Rahul said the team will be more excited if the legendary MS Dhoni turns up to watch the opening ODI against South Africa at the JSCA International Stadium on Sunday. India are looking to rebound from a 2-0 Test series defeat to South Africa through the ODI series opener in Dhonis hometown. Rahul debuted in ODIs under Dhonis captaincy with a century in Harare in 2016, and is set to reprise a dual role which the latter played for a long time - taking the wicketkeeping gloves while leading the side from behind the stumps and batting as a finisher. We've all played under him. We've been his fans, and we've all played together. So we are all friends, and to know someone like MS, its a very happy opportunity to know someone as big as MS and someone who is so successful as an Indian player and we all respect him as a human being. So if he also comes to watch the match, not only the crowd, we will get more excited. So, we will also enjoy playing here, and hopefully we can win the game, put up a good performance and entertain the crowd, and for MS Dhoni, he will also feel happy that we won the game, said Rahul in the pre-match press conference on Saturday. He also confirmed his batting at number six and expressed how excited the side has been to have Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli back for the ODI series. I will be batting in the same position. I have been playing at number six since the Champions Trophy, so I will be batting there, and obviously, there are all-rounders like Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Nitish Reddy. We have all these options, so we will see what the best eleven is, and we will make that decision in the evening, and you will know tomorrow. Taking singles is as important as hitting boundaries in ODI cricket and in Test cricket, maybe not as much in T20 format. Thats something Virat has done so well over his career and it's something that we've looked at Virat and tried to learn. Even in the dressing room, we all talked to him and Rohit about how we can get better as batsmen, and how we can rotate the strike a lot more. He's obviously the master at doing that in ODI cricket. We're really happy that he's back in the dressing room. He's very excited to be here and play these games. Their importance at any point is huge. To have senior players in the team obviously makes the dressing room feel a lot more confident. Just having their presence and experience helps out a lot of players in the dressing room and helps out the team. We're really happy that they're here, he elaborated. India are also welcoming back the veteran Ravindra Jadeja, who was omitted from the 2-1 series defeat in Australia. Look, Jadeja has obviously been part of the Indian team for so many years. He's done the job time and again, and we all know what he can do and what he brings to the table. I'm happy to have him back again with the ODI team. He missed out on the Australia series, but he was part of the Champions Trophy as well. He was key in us winning that tournament with bat and ball in the field. He's someone who can do everything and he's someone who's always done everything that the team has required of him. So, having him and his experience obviously is great for me as a captain or whoever is captaining. I think it's great to have players that have experience, have done it time and again, added Rahul. Opener Ruturaj Gaikwad is also back in the national set-up, and Rahul said he will get his chance to play at some point in the series. Rutu, obviously, is a top-class player. We've all seen it. With whatever limited opportunities he's got, he's really utilised them and shown what he can do. Unfortunately, in ODI cricket, the top 5 or 6 is quite settled and they're performing really well. So, you feel bad for players who don't get enough opportunities. Also, at the same time, for the guys who are in the team, you feel happy that they're performing and doing their job for the team. It's unfortunate for the players who miss out. Now, he's gotten his opportunity with a few injuries. He will get his chance at some stage. I'm looking forward to giving him that chance and letting him show what he can do, do the job for the team. There's never a question mark about his skill and how good he is as a player. It's just about the right opportunities and the right timing as in come. Hopefully, this series gives him that opportunity. Also, at the same time, for the guys who are in the team, you feel happy that they're performing and doing their job for the team. It's unfortunate for the players who miss out. Now, he's gotten his opportunity with a few injuries. He will get his chance at some stage. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With the players who are already in the team and who are performing, sometimes you just have to wait for your opportunity. You'll find out tomorrow who will be left behind. Obviously, he's good enough to play as a batter as well. But if he's in the 11, he'll take the gloves and I'll be in the field. Article Source: IANS
Lanning shines again as Melbourne Stars go top of table
Melbourne Renegades paid for giving the former Australia captain a life in what became a one-sided derby
Was Nervous During The Bidding, But Felt Valued When GG Picked Me Via RTM Card: Bharti Fulmali
T20 World Cup: India batter Bharti Fulmali revealed she was nervous during the WPL 2026 auction and said she felt valued when Gujarat Giants (GG) used the Right to Match (RTM) card to secure her for the upcoming season, which will take place from January 9 to February 5, 2026. Bharti, who played two T20Is for India in 2019, was reacquired by GG for Rs 70 lakh after winning a challenge against the Mumbai Indians (MI). In the 2025 season, Bharti scored her maiden WPL fifty for GG off just 22 balls, giving MI a strong scare. I was very stressed when Gujarat Giants picked up the paddle quite late. But I felt good when Mumbai Indians also bid for me. Then GG used their RTM card to keep me; that showed their trust and made me feel really valued, she said on JioStar. She also expressed delight at sharing the same dressing room with legendary New Zealand all-rounder Sophie Devine in the 2026 WPL. When Gujarat signed Sophie Devine in the first round, I felt very happy. As her teammate, Ill get to play alongside a big player like her, a T20 World Cup winner, who has won many games for New Zealand. Playing with such great players always helps you improve, and Im looking forward to a wonderful season 4 with Gujarat Giants, added Bharti. In WPL, Bharti has so far averaged 49.25 with the bat and boasts a high strike rate of 151.53 as a finisher. This will be my proper debut since I only played earlier as an injury replacement for Harleen Deol. After going unsold in the last two auctions, this moment feels very special. As her teammate, Ill get to play alongside a big player like her, a T20 World Cup winner, who has won many games for New Zealand. Playing with such great players always helps you improve, and Im looking forward to a wonderful season 4 with Gujarat Giants, added Bharti. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Meanwhile, New Zealand all-rounder Amelia Kerr expressed her excitement to rejoin the Mumbai Indians for the upcoming season, after the franchise reacquired her for Rs. 3 crore. I cant wait to be back with the Mumbai Indians family. Ive absolutely loved my last three years here, especially winning two WPL trophies. Im really excited to return and look forward to winning more championships with this amazing team. Article Source: IANS
The DP World ILT20 Season 4 launches on Tuesday, 2 December 2025 at the Dubai International Stadium with defending champions Dubai Capitals taking on Desert Vipers, igniting a month-long cricket carnival. The league runs from 2 December 2025 to 4 January 2026, featuring six franchises across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah. All squads include global T20 superstars, bolstered by Indian representation with Dinesh Karthik (Sharjah Warriorz), Piyush Chawla and Unmukt Chand (Abu Dhabi Knight Riders). Teams may add replacements for injuries or non-availability. A total of 34 matches will be played, including afternoon and evening fixtures, culminating in the final on Sunday, 4 January 2026. Live coverage will be exclusive on Z TV channels and Zee 5 Hindi with free streaming. Abu Dhabi Knight Riders Liam Stephen Livingstone, Alishan Sharafu, Alexander Daniel Hales, Sherfane Eviston Rutherford, Sunil Philip Narine, Andre Dwayne Russell, Philip Dean Salt, Olly Stone, Michael Pepper, George Garton, Brandon McMullen, Abrar Ahmed, Ajay Kumar, Adnan Idrees Muhammad, Abdul Manan Ali, Mayank Choudary, Khary Pierre, Shadley, Van Schalkwyk, Unmukt Chand Wildcard: Jason Holder, Piyush Chawla Desert Vipers Dan Lawrence, Max Holden, David Payne, Khuzaima Bin Tanveer, Lockie Ferguson, Noor Ahmad, Sam Curran, Andries Gous, Vriitya Aravind, Fakhar Zaman, Naseem Shah, Qais Ahmad, Sanjay Pahal, Bilal Tahir, Faisal Khan, Hasan Nawaz, Tom Bruce, Matiullah Khan, Tawanda Muyeye, Faridoon Dawoodzai Wildcard: Shimron Hetmyer Dubai Capitals Jordan Matthew Cox, Rovman Johnrast Powell, Gulbadin Naib, Sediqullah Atal, Mohammad Waqar Salamkheil, Haider Ali, Muhammad Jawad Ullah, James Douglas Sheahan Neesham, Muhammad Farooq, Tymal Mills, Scott Currie, Mohammad Nabi, Farhan Khan, Anudeep Chenthamara, Usman Najeeb, Ritesh Mallikarjuna Grandhi, Shayan Jahangir, Rushil Ugarkar, Navin Bidaisee, Toby Albert, Akshay Wakhare Wildcard: David Willey, Leus de Plooy Gulf Giants Aayan Afzal Khan, Mark Richard Adair, Merwe Gerhard Erasmus, Blessing Muzarabani, Moeen Munir Ali, James Vince, Azmatullah Omarzai, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Asif Khan, Zuhaib Zubair, Sean Dickson, Tabraiz Shamsi, Liam Dawson, Fred Klaassen, Haider Razzaq, Meet Bhavsar, Ishtiaq Ahmad, Lorcan Tucker, Chris Wood, Tom Moores, Ramon Simmonds Wildcard: Kyle Mayers, Matthew Forde MI Emirates Fazalhaq Farooqi, Tom Banton, Romario Shepherd, Chris Woakes, Jonny Bairstow, Allah Mohammad Ghazanfar, Muhammad Waseem, Kamindu Dilanka Mendis, Muhammad Rohid, Jordan Thompson, Naveen - Ul - Haq, Andre Fletcher, Nosthush Kenjige, Mohamed Shafeeq, Zain Ul Abidin, Usman Khan, Ackeem Wayne Jarrell Auguste, Arab Gul, Tajinder Dhillon, Zahoor Khan, Shakib Al Hasan Wildcard: Kieron Pollard, Nicholas Pooran Sharjah Warriorz Dinesh Karthik, Sikandar Raza, Tom Kohler-Cadmore, Tim David, Johnson Charles, Tim Southee, Saurabh Netravalkar, Junaid Siddique, James Rew, Nathan Sowter, Dwaine Pretorius, Jayden Seales, Harmeet Singh Baddhan, Wasim Akram, Mohammed Nawfer Mohammed Aslam Raees Ahmed Ayan, Richard Ngarava, Shubham Ranjane, Ethan D'Souza (Full name: Ethan Carl D'Souza), Taskin Ahmed, Abdul Salam Khan Also Read: Live Cricket Score Wildcard: Adil Rashid, Tom Abell
Ashes: Khawaja Faces CA Notice After Dubbing Perth Pitch piece Of...
Usman Khawaja Foundation: Usman Khawaja is expected to receive a formal notice from Cricket Australia after bluntly labelling the Perth Stadium surface for the first Ashes Test a piece of s**t during a charity lunch this week. According to reports, CA officials were unhappy with the openers remarks, which came despite match referee Ranjan Madugalle awarding the wicket a very good rating, the highest an ICC official can give. Madugalles assessment followed a match that finished inside two days, noting the surface had good carry, limited seam movement, and consistent early bounce, contributing to what he deemed a fair contest between bat and ball. Khawaja, however, offered a sharply different view. Speaking at the event, he criticised the pitch for its variable bounce, pointing to the rapid fall of wickets on Day 1 and the number of batters struck and adding that even a player of Steve Smiths calibre struggled to find the middle of the bat due to the up-and-down movement. Nineteen wickets on the first day and about 20 people got hit, thats a great wicket, that seems real fair. Steve Smiths by far the best cricketer Ive ever played with, and hes missing the middle of his bat by a long way he does not miss the middle of his bat. Hes getting hit in the elbow. Up and down (movement) is the hardest, sideways is a little bit easier, but up and down, your hands cant catch up. So, day one wicket at (Perth) is a piece of s**t, Im happy to say that. It has been last year; it was this year, Khawaja had said at an event for his Usman Khawaja Foundation. Khawaja, however, offered a sharply different view. Speaking at the event, he criticised the pitch for its variable bounce, pointing to the rapid fall of wickets on Day 1 and the number of batters struck and adding that even a player of Steve Smiths calibre struggled to find the middle of the bat due to the up-and-down movement. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Cricket Australia is expected to address the matter formally, with Khawajas comments drawing attention not only for their bluntness but for directly contradicting the ICCs top-tier rating of the wicket. Article Source: IANS
Exciting To Be Part Of Different Energy When Rohit, Virat Are Around: Bavuma
JSCA International Stadium: South Africa captain Temba Bavuma said it will be exciting to be part of a different kind of energy on the field when India stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are present for the ODI series opener, to be held at the JSCA International Stadium on Sunday. With Rohit and Kohli back in action after playing in the ODI series against Australia in October, the chatter has been huge over whether the veteran duo can sustain their form and fitness to feature in the 50-over World Cup two years from now. For now, everyones focus will be on how the duo fare against the Bavuma-led Proteas in Ranchi, Raipur and Visakhapatnam. I think it's exciting, right? It's exciting for the locals, having the two living legends come back and play on Indian soil for a while. So it's exciting for us to be a part of a different type of energy when those two big guys are around. So it's something that we'll be looking forward to, said Bavuma in a video posted by Star Sports on their Instagram account on Saturday. For now, everyones focus will be on how the duo fare against the Bavuma-led Proteas in Ranchi, Raipur and Visakhapatnam. I think it's exciting, right? It's exciting for the locals, having the two living legends come back and play on Indian soil for a while. Also Read: Live Cricket Score From a captaincy point of view, I don't think much really changes for my side. I think you obviously want to lead with the bat, and then you want to lead the guys out there tactically on the field. So, nothing really, I don't think much really changes, he added. Article Source: IANS
Dale Steyn Picks His IND-SA Combine XI Ahead Of ODI Series Opener
JSCA International Stadium Complex: Former South African quick Dale Steyn picked a combined playing XI ahead of the first ODI of the three-match series between India and South Africa, which will be played on Sunday at the JSCA International Stadium Complex in Ranchi. The Proteas legend acknowledged that picking an XI from the two teams was a tricky task and that both sides had lots of fantastic players. India and South Africa concluded their two-match Test series recently and will now square off in three ODIs, followed by a five-game T20I series in the build-up to the T20 World Cup 2026. In a video shared by StarSports on X, Steyn named a sharp and competitive combined XI when asked to pick a team, as he said, If I had to combine the two teams, its a tricky one, lots of fantastic players and surely someones going to miss out but itd be Rohit to open the batting with Quinton de Kock, Virat at three, Tilak Varma at four, KL Rahul at five, Brevis six, Jadeja, Jansen, Kuldeep, Arshdeep, and Lungi Ngidi. Dale Steyns IND-SA combined XI: Rohit Sharma, Quinton de Kock, Virat Kohli, Tilak Varma, KL Rahul, Dewald Brevis, Ravindra Jadeja, Marco Jansen, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Lungi Ngidi. In a video shared by StarSports on X, Steyn named a sharp and competitive combined XI when asked to pick a team, as he said, If I had to combine the two teams, its a tricky one, lots of fantastic players and surely someones going to miss out but itd be Rohit to open the batting with Quinton de Kock, Virat at three, Tilak Varma at four, KL Rahul at five, Brevis six, Jadeja, Jansen, Kuldeep, Arshdeep, and Lungi Ngidi. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The visitors will be high on confidence after securing a historic 2-0 Test series whitewash against India. However, the hosts will be raring to go and prove a point in the white-ball games, especially amid World Cup selection talks. Article Source: IANS
Cricket Australia to ask Khawaja for explanation of s*** pitch comments
The opener did not hide his displeasure at the surface in Perth despite it being rated very good by the ICC
Jess Jonassen To Miss Remainder Of WBBL Season Due To Shoulder Surgery
Brisbane Heat CEO Terry Svenson: Brisbane Heat have been dealt a major blow with captain Jess Jonassen ruled out of the rest of the ongoing WBBL season due to a right shoulder surgery. All-rounder Charli Knott will assume leadership duties for the final three matches of the season for the side, currently seated at the bottom of the points table, with no wins so far. The shoulder injury was also one of the main reasons behind Jess, the left-arm spin bowling all-rounder, pulling out of the recent WPL 2026 auction, held in New Delhi on Thursday. We had thought I could get through with the care and attention of our physio Jolandi Jacobs and the medical team, but that plan needed to change obviously as we got further into the competition. It has certainly been a challenging time personally, especially as it became apparent that it was getting tougher to compete at the level I aspired to be at. But I'm very determined to bounce back from this and play some more good cricket once I have fully recovered. Its encouraging to know that I will have the best possible support back home as I get back to full strength. It hasnt been the tournament we had hoped for this time, but I have been very proud of the team and they way they have fought hard and competed in each of our games. Im sure they will finish on a high note, said Jess in a statement by the club. Charli will lead Brisbane Heat for the first time in Sundays clash against Adelaide Strikers at North Sydney Oval, after having earlier served as vice-captain this season and captained Australia A as well. For Heat, Nadine de Klerk will bow out after Sundays game ahead of South Africas upcoming white-ball series against Ireland, while Grace Harris remains under fitness management for a calf issue. Jess is expected to be sidelined for around three months and could return for the end of the Women's National Cricket League season. Her state team Queensland will play their final round matches against Victoria on March 12 and 14, respectively, ahead of the final on March 21. Charli will lead Brisbane Heat for the first time in Sundays clash against Adelaide Strikers at North Sydney Oval, after having earlier served as vice-captain this season and captained Australia A as well. For Heat, Nadine de Klerk will bow out after Sundays game ahead of South Africas upcoming white-ball series against Ireland, while Grace Harris remains under fitness management for a calf issue. Also Read: Live Cricket Score While Jess is recovering from her surgery, Charli Knott will captain the side for the remaining three games in the WBBL, and we certainly wish her every success with the team, said Brisbane Heat CEO Terry Svenson. Article Source: IANS
MI-RCB Clash In Navi Mumbai To Open WPL 2026, Final In Vadodara On A Weekday
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: The Womens Premier League (WPL) 2026 will kick off with a marquee clash between two-time champions Mumbai Indians and 2024 winners Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai on January 9, announced the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Saturday. Previously, WPL chairman Jayesh George had announced the 2026 season dates and venues on Thursday before the first mega auction began in New Delhi. While unveiling the schedule on Saturday, Secretary Devajit Saikia said the tournament will feature two double-headers in Navi Mumbai, while the final is slated to be played at the Kotambi Stadium in Vadodara on a weekday, February 5, thus adding a fresh dimension to the competition. The Navi Mumbai leg will be held from January 9-17, and will host 11 matches before the action shifts to Vadodara for the remaining 11 fixtures, including the Playoffs. Gujarat Giants will open the Vadodara leg with a clash against RCB, followed by a rematch of the 2025 final between Delhi Capitals and Mumbai Indians. Once the league stage concludes on February 1, the Eliminator, contested by the second and third-placed sides, will be held on February 3, while the table topper advances directly to the final on February 5. It will cap off a crowded time, as the mens Under-19 World Cup will happen on February 6, while the mens T20 World Cup starts on February 7. Staged for the first time in the January-February window, the WPL avoids clashes with major international fixtures after three seasons in the February-March slot. Mumbai Indians enter as defending champions, while Royal Challengers Bengaluru are the only other side to have lifted the WPL trophy. Delhi Capitals have finished runners-up thrice, with Gujarat Giants and UP Warriorz yet to reach a final. Soon after WPL is over, Indias all-format tour of Australia will begin on February 15 and run until March 9. With the mega auction in New Delhi on Thursday reshaping and strengthening squads, WPL 2026 is poised to deliver its most riveting season yet. Young Indian players are set to break through alongside seasoned international performers, promising high-intensity cricket throughout, said Saikia. WPL 2026 schedule Navi Mumbai leg January 9: Mumbai Indians vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru January 10: UP Warriorz vs Gujarat Giants January 10: Mumbai Indians vs Delhi Capitals January 11: Delhi Capitals vs Gujarat Giants January 12: Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs UP Warriorz January 13: Mumbai Indians vs Gujarat Giants January 14: UP Warriorz vs Delhi Capitals January 15: Mumbai Indians vs UP Warriorz January 16: Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Gujarat Giants January 17: UP Warriorz vs Mumbai Indians January 17: Delhi Capitals vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru Vadodara leg January 19: Gujarat Giants vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru January 20: Delhi Capitals vs Mumbai Indians January 22: Gujarat Giants vs UP Warriorz January 24: Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Delhi Capitals January 26: Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Mumbai Indians January 27: Gujarat Giants vs Delhi Capitals January 29: UP Warriorz vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru January 30: Gujarat Giants vs Mumbai Indians February 1: Delhi Capitals vs UP Warriorz January 30: Gujarat Giants vs Mumbai Indians Also Read: Live Cricket Score February 5: Final Article Source: IANS
Its Good To Be Back In Blue, Really Looking Forward To Playing Again For India: Gaikwad
JSCA International Stadium: Ahead of the ODI series against South Africa, India batter Ruturaj Gaikwad expressed his delight at returning to the national set-up, saying it has felt good to be back in blue and is eager to contribute for the side again in the international cricket arena. With no Shubman Gill (neck injury) and Shreyas Iyer (spleen injury), Gaikwad was included in Indias ODI squad for the three-match series, to be led by wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul, against South Africa starting on Sunday at the JSCA International Stadium in Ranchi. It's good to be back in blue and really looking forward to again playing for Team India, said Gaikwad in a video posted by BCCI on X on Saturday, on the sidelines of the team photoshoot activities. Gaikwad last featured in an ODI on December 19, 2023, against South Africa in Gqeberha, while his most recent international outing came in a T20I against Zimbabwe in Harare on July 13, 2024. It's great to have him here. He's been a quality player for a number of years, and if he gets this chance, I'm pretty sure he'll do the country very proud, India bowling coach Morne Morkel had said on Friday about Gaikwads call-up to the ODI team. Gaikwad last featured in an ODI on December 19, 2023, against South Africa in Gqeberha, while his most recent international outing came in a T20I against Zimbabwe in Harare on July 13, 2024. Also Read: Live Cricket Score While left-handed batters Tilak Varma and Rishabh Pant remain the frontrunners for the position, Gaikwads prolific form gives the team management another option as they weigh up the make-up of their middle order. Following the ODI series opener in Ranchi, India and South Africa will play the next two games in Raipur and Visakhapatnam. Article Source: IANS
Ashes: Terming England As Arrogant Is Little Bit Too Far, Says Stokes
Terming England: England captain Ben Stokes has pushed back against suggestions that his side carried an air of arrogance during the first Ashes Test against Australia in Perth, insisting that saying this was a little bit too far. A bruising two-day defeat in the opening Ashes Test in Perth last week has put England under huge criticism for a variety of reasons: their pre-series build-up, reckless batting choices and the contentious call to rest first-choice players from this weekends pink-ball warm-up game in Canberra. Add to it, former Australia fast bowler Mitchell Johnson also described England as arrogant. Look, you can call us rubbish, call us whatever you want. We didn't have the Test match that we wanted to. We were great in passages of that game but I think arrogant might be a little bit too far. But that's okay. We'll take the rough with the smooth. I'd rather words like 'rubbish', but 'arrogant', I'm not so sure about that, Stokes told reporters on Saturday, as England resumed their training for the second Test to be played with a pink ball. He also acknowledged the criticism over not sending many first choice players for the warm-up game against PMs XI. But there's obviously a lot more to it than just that. There's where it is, in Canberra, which is a different state from Brisbane. The conditions are going to be completely different to what we are going to have coming up. You take all the factors into consideration, the pros and cons, whatever it may be. We then discuss that and decide what we think is the best preparation. We have a few more days off than we planned after that Test. We had to go away and ask how we use these next few days wisely in order to be prepared for what it will be like in Brisbane. We schedule everything as if the Test match is going to go five days. It didn't go five days, so we had three days planned for training, and that obviously had to change. That's why now we have a longer build-up for this pink-ball game, elaborated Stokes. You take all the factors into consideration, the pros and cons, whatever it may be. We then discuss that and decide what we think is the best preparation. We have a few more days off than we planned after that Test. We had to go away and ask how we use these next few days wisely in order to be prepared for what it will be like in Brisbane. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Sometimes when you go out there and you make a decision, it doesn't always play out or work in the way that you want it to. And that's what the key for the rest of this tour is, is making sure that we stay true to our beliefs of how we play our cricket. But also, we do know that we could have definitely been a lot better in certain areas throughout that Test match, he added. Article Source: IANS
WPL 2026: two double-headers, final on a weekday
This is the first time in four seasons that the final of the Women's Premier League will not be played on a weekend
Stokes: Calling England arrogant is a step too far
The England captain attempted to reset the tone for the tour as the team begins preparations for the second Test
What Indian womens tennis needs to bridge the gulf to the elite
The Billie Jean King Cup playoffs in Bengaluru came as a reality check but there were also positives for singles players Sahaja Yamalapalli and Shrivalli Bhamidipaty, who dont always get to face world-class opposition. What lessons can be learnt from the experience to better empower Indias young players?
Pakistan vs Sri Lanka, Final T20I- Who will win today PAK vs SL match?
PAK vs SL , Final T20I , Cricket Tips :After six exciting matches, the two finalists will take on each other in the ongoing T20I tri-series in Pakistan. The hosts were the first team to make it to the final with three consecutive wins. But they slipped in the fourth game and lost to Sri Lanka in a close game. That helped the Islanders to slip past Zimbabwe and become the second finalists. So, twice in two days, Pakistan and Sri Lanka will be up against each other. The final will be held at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Saturday at 6:30 PM IST. PAK vs SL: Match Details Date : November 29, 2025 (Saturday) Time : 6:30 PM IST Venue : Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium PAK vs SL: Live Streaming Details The Sports TV YouTube channel is the only available option in India to catch the live action between Pakistan and Sri Lanka in the tri-series final on Sunday. PAK vs SL: Head-to-Head Total Matches : 26 Pakistan : 15 Sri Lanka : 11 No - result / Tied : 00 PAK vs SL: Ground Pitch Report Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium has been good for batting. Teams have scored runs batting first here. There will be dew in the second innings, which will create problems for bowlers. Spinners will get more out of this wicket, but defending a total can be difficult. PAK vs SL: Possible XIs Pakistan : Saim Ayub, Babar Azam, Sahibzada Farhan, Fakhar Zaman, Salman Agha (c), Usman Khan (wk), Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Abrar Ahmed Zimbabwe : Kamil Mishara, Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Dasun Shanaka (c), Pavan Rathnayake, Kusal Perera, Janith Liyanage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Eshan Malinga, Dushmantha Chameera PAK vs SL: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter This will be a head-on between Pathum Nissanka and Sahibzada Farhan. These two openers are the top scorers for their respective teams in this tri-series. Probable Best Bowler Abrar Ahmed bowled yet another good spell in the last game and took two wickets. For Sri Lanka, the way Dushmantha Chameera bowled, Sri Lanka will hope for something similar from him once again. Today Match Prediction : Sri Lanka will be riding high after the last win. But Pakistan have an edge in home conditions and we predict them to win this game. PAK vs SL Match Final T20I, Today Match PAK vs SL, PAK vs SL Prediction, PAK vs SL Predicted XIs, Injury Update of the match between Pakistan vs Sri Lanka 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.
Bangladesh vs Ireland, 2nd T20I - Who will win today BAN vs IRE match?
BAN vs IRE , 2nd T20I , Cricket Tips :The second T20I between Bangladesh and Ireland will be played at Bir Sreshtho Flight Lieutenant Matiur Rahman Stadium, Chattogram, on Saturday. The game will commence at 5:30 PM IST. Ireland pulled off a good win the first game. Matthew Humphreys and Harry Tector were the stars. For Bangladesh, Towhid Hridoy showed some fight with an unbeaten fifty. But no other Bangladeshi batter supported him, and they suffered a 39-run defeat. Ireland will have their nose ahead, as they are one win away from recording their first-ever T20I series win against Bangladesh. The hosts will put everything to avoid that scenario. BAN vs IRE: Match Details Date : November 29, 2025 (Saturday) Time : 5:30 PM IST Venue : Bir Sreshtho Flight Lieutenant Matiur Rahman Stadium, Chattogram BAN vs IRE: Live Streaming Details To watch the live action of the BAN vs IRE 2nd T20I, Indian fans can switch to the FanCode streaming platform, which needs a nominal fee or charge. BAN vs IRE: Head-to-Head in T20Is Total Matches : 09 Bangladesh : 05 Ireland : 03 Drawn : 01 BAN vs IRE: Ground Pitch Report The wicket in Chattogram is a very good T20I wicket. It has runs for the batters, especially batting first. The wicket will get difficult to bat on as the game goes forward. That is why the toss is an advantage here, as batting first can give an edge over the opposition. BAN vs IRE: Possible XIs Bangladesh : Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Litton Das (c) (wk), Saif Hassan, Parvez Hossain Emon, Towhid Hridoy, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Jaker Ali, Nasum Ahmed, Rishad Hossain, Shoriful Islam, Mustafizur Rahman Ireland : Paul Stirling (c), Tim Tector, Lorcan Tucker (wk), Harry Tector, Gareth Delany, Curtis Campher, Barry McCarthy, George Dockrell, Mark Adair, Matthew Humphreys, Joshua Little BAN vs IRE: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Harry Tector played a good innings, and he is Ireland's most consistent batter in this format. For Bangladesh, in-form Towhid Hridoy played a good innings and will be the key heading into this game as well. Probable Best Bowler Tanzim Sakib is delivering good spells consistently, and he is a very promising pacer for Bangladesh. For Ireland, Matthew Hamphreys has been the go-to bowler on this tour. Today Match Prediction : Bangladesh have an out-of-form top order, which is why we predict Ireland to win the second T20I on Saturday. BAN vs IRE Match 2nd T20I, Today Match BAN vs IRE, BAN vs IRE Prediction, BAN vs IRE Predicted XIs, Injury Update of the match between Bangladesh vs Ireland 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.
Morkel: Gill is recovering well, Shreyas has started rehab
Morkel also said it was good to have Kohli and Rohit in the ODI team as India look to move on from the Test series loss against South Africa
UAE To Host Ireland For Two T20Is In January 2026 As Part Of T20 WC Preparation
ICC T20 World Cup: The UAE will host Ireland for a two-match T20I series in January 2026 as part of both teams fine tuning their preparations for the 2026 Mens T20 World Cup, starting in India and Sri Lanka on February 7. The matches will be played at the Dubai International Stadium on January 29 under lights and on January 31 in a morning start. We are delighted to announce Irelands tour to the UAE. The tour will benefit both teams and help them in their ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026 preparations. Here at the ECB, we have always endeavoured to provide the best exposure and opportunities to our players by hosting ICC Full Members on a regular basis. In 2025 we hosted Bangladesh followed by a tri-series in Sharjah (Afghanistan and Pakistan). Our team also earned great experience by competing in the Asia Cup. The players will have a good build-up to the prestigious ICC T20 World Cup through the Ireland series, said Subhan Ahmed, Chief Operating Officer, Emirates Cricket Board (ECB), in a statement on Friday. UAE and Ireland have met 11 times in mens T20Is, with the former holding the edge via seven victories as compared to the latters four wins. After the series is over, Ireland will travel to Sri Lanka where they will play Australia, Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe and Oman as part of their Group B games in the Mens T20 World Cup. Our team also earned great experience by competing in the Asia Cup. The players will have a good build-up to the prestigious ICC T20 World Cup through the Ireland series, said Subhan Ahmed, Chief Operating Officer, Emirates Cricket Board (ECB), in a statement on Friday. Also Read: Live Cricket Score This series against the UAE will provide part of an exceptional warm-up programme for our players we hope to announce more fixtures shortly. Our thanks to the ECB and we look forward to playing some competitive cricket in such a prestigious stadium, said Richard Holdsworth, Director of Cricket at Cricket Ireland. Article Source: IANS
Rohit And Kohli Have Won Trophies, Know How To Play Big Tournaments, Says Morne Morkel
ODI World Cup: Indias bowling coach Morne Morkel has backed the possibility of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli featuring in the 2027 ODI World Cup, saying that the veteran duos experience of winning trophies and handling the pressures in major tournaments will be important. Though India lost the ODI series to Australia in October, Rohit was named Player of the Series after scoring a half-century in Adelaide and a century in Sydney. Kohli, meanwhile, picked successive ducks before regaining form with an unbeaten 74 in Sydney. The duo will be seen in action when India plays South Africa at the JSCA International Stadium in Ranchi on Sunday. For sure, they're quality players -- as long as they're happy to put the hard work in and the fitness. I've always believed in experience, and to have that experience, you don't find it anywhere. They've won trophies, they know how to play big tournaments. So for sure, if they mentally and physically feel that their bodies can do that, it's still a long way away -- the World Cup, by all means. I've played many games against them. I've had sleepless nights, bowling to them. So I know, as a bowler, what goes through your preparation when playing against them. So for me, definitely on board with that, said Morkel in the pre-series press conference. He also felt a change in format would help India, who are coming on the back of a 2-0 Test series defeat to the Proteas. Obviously, it was a disappointing two weeks for us, but we had a couple of days now to reflect, and I think the important thing now is to give all our energy into the white ball team. We've been playing a lot of good white ball cricket. It's a couple of new faces in, not new faces, but fresh energy into the squad now with Virat and Rohit and them coming back. So, excited for the next two and a couple of weeks now with playing white ball cricket, he added. Against South Africa, India will be without newly-appointed skipper Shubman Gill due to a neck injury, while vice-captain Shreyas Iyer is still on the road to recovery from a spleen injury, which needed hospitalisation in Sydney. Morkel revealed the duo are progressing well from their respective injuries. We've been playing a lot of good white ball cricket. It's a couple of new faces in, not new faces, but fresh energy into the squad now with Virat and Rohit and them coming back. So, excited for the next two and a couple of weeks now with playing white ball cricket, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score So, we are looking forward to welcoming them back into the squad. The good thing is that they are healthy, and they are starting their preparation on their way back into the team, added Morkel. Article Source: IANS
'Do Bhai, Dono Tabahi': India Awaits Ro-Kos Explosive Return To ODI Action
Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International: As India prepare to face South Africa in the first ODI of the three-match series in Ranchi on Sunday, all eyes are firmly fixed on two of the biggest names in world cricket Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. The iconic duo, fondly referred to by fans as Do Bhai, Dono Tabahi, are set to return to international action, igniting excitement across the nation. Rohit and Virat, who remain towering figures in the cricketing world, were last seen in action during Indias tour of Australia. However, their performances did not quite match expectations on that occasion. Now, with conditions favourable and with both having a point to prove, fans are eager to see their bats do the talking once again. This ODI series carries added significance following Indias recent Test series defeat against South Africa. A strong performance in the 50-over format could go a long way in lifting the spirits of supporters and restoring momentum for the Men in Blue. Notably, both Rohit and Kohli have stepped away from Test and T20I cricket, announcing their retirement from the two formats earlier this year. However, the veteran pair expressed their desire to continue representing India in ODIs, and the selectors have backed them fully by including them in the squad for this crucial series. With the spotlight back on Ranchi, expectations are sky-high. The fans await nothing less than fireworks from two modern-day legends who have defined an era of Indian cricket and now stand ready to script another chapter in blue. Notably, both Rohit and Kohli have stepped away from Test and T20I cricket, announcing their retirement from the two formats earlier this year. However, the veteran pair expressed their desire to continue representing India in ODIs, and the selectors have backed them fully by including them in the squad for this crucial series. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The ACAVDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam will host the third and final ODI match on December 6. Article Source: IANS
Rain, controversial finish rob Thunder of a win
Despite the chase taking place with steady rain on, the umpires called off play with Thunder three runs away from a win
Khawaja Criticises Perth Pitch Despite ICCs very Good Rating For Ashes Opener
Usman Khawaja Foundation: Australia opener Usman Khawaja, who has retained his place for the second Ashes Test at the Gabba, came down heavily on the series opener pitch in Perth despite the ICC giving the surface a very good rating. In the opening Test that lasted for less than six sessions, 19 wickets fell on the first day, while the second day saw 17 dismissals as Australia scripted an eight-wicket win to take a 1-0 lead in the five-match series. Meanwhile, Khawaja, who was unable to open in either innings because of back spasms, voiced his disappointment with the pitch used for the Perth Test. Nineteen wickets on the first day and about 20 people got hit, that's a great wicket - that seems real fair, Khawaja said at an event for his Usman Khawaja Foundation, a charity which helps support children from diverse, rural and low socio-economic backgrounds. The same thing happened last year in the Indian Test, it's just that day one wicket, the ball just does not react. Steve Smith's by far the best cricketer I've ever played with and he's missing the middle of his bat by a long way - he does not miss the middle of his bat. He's getting hit in the elbow, he's getting hit. You can't really predict up and down. Up and down is the hardest - sideways is a little bit easier but up and down, your hands can't catch up. So day one wicket at (Perth) is a piece of s***, I'm happy to say that. It has been last year, it was this year. They do get better. Day two, day three, and then day four, they start to crack up. The same thing happened last year in the Indian Test, it's just that day one wicket, the ball just does not react. Steve Smith's by far the best cricketer I've ever played with and he's missing the middle of his bat by a long way - he does not miss the middle of his bat. He's getting hit in the elbow, he's getting hit. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I feel good, he said. I'd never experienced it before, but the last few days have been good. I've never had back spasms before, so it's been quite new for me. I've been quite lucky. I'm 39 years old (on December 18) and have always had a pretty solid back. Rachel, my wife, has been taking care of me - she's been letting me sleep in a fair bit actually, I've really been taking advantage of it. I should be right. Article Source: IANS
Well-oiled Pakistan wary of buoyant Sri Lanka in tri-series final
Sri Lanka had a disastrous start to the tri-series, but are peaking at the right time
Abhishek Nayar: We wanted Shikha's experience and Deepti back through RTM
UP Warriorz head coach was very surprised to bag Sophie Ecclestone for INR 85 lakh, as he expected her to go for 1.50 crore
Ashes: Pink-ball Test Is A Bit Of Lottery, Says Stuart Broad
For The Love: Former England cricketer Stuart Broad believes England's chances in the Brisbane Test will be based on the fact how well they utilise the lottery with the pink ball. The second Test of the five-match Ashes series will begin on December 4 and will be a day-night match at the Gabba following an eight-wicket win for Australia in the first game. We know the pink-ball Test, having played a few ourselves, is a bit of a lottery, said Broad on the For The Love of Cricket podcast. Ultimately, the best team generally wins Test matches but this one, it's on a bit more of a knife edge of conditions. England have lost all three of their pink ball Test, first by 120 runs in Adelaide in 2017, before 275-run and 146-run defeats in Adelaide and Hobart on their last tour in 2021. If you can get a brand new ball under the floodlights at the Gabba, you should be taking wickets and you can break the game open, said Broad. It is all about timing a little bit of when you bowl with the brand new ball. That is why I don't like bowling first in pink-ball cricket because you bowl with a brand new ball in daylight and it doesn't do a lot. By the time you get to the twilight period the ball is 60 overs old and doesn't do anything - and the new ball comes too late in the day. Winning the toss and batting is pretty crucial in the pink-ball Test in my opinion. That is my feeling in pink-ball cricket. It is going to be one hell of a challenge. As compared to England, Australia have won 12 out of their 13 pink ball Test at home, having lost only one against West Indies at the Gabba last year. Teams batting first have won six times in eleven occasions, with the pink ball giving extra assistance to bowlers in night. I'm not the biggest fan (of pink-ball Tests) to be honest, said the veteran pacer. It's quite situational dependent, so if you can manipulate the game to get a brand new ball in the twilight, you've got a great chance of doing really well because the ball just seems to zip around a little bit more. I'm not the biggest fan (of pink-ball Tests) to be honest, said the veteran pacer. Also Read: Live Cricket Score It's just the lights are reflecting off the pink ball so it's almost like a big planet coming flying towards you. It means you're just judging it from the movement off the surface or reading off the movement of the ball, but at such pace it's quite difficult to do. That's why I think it is quite important to bat first because even if you are bowled out by tea when it's starting to go dark, you have a brand new ball under lights. And if you bat well you can control when you bowl in the game and in the day, he added. Article Source: IANS
Union Home Minister Amit Shah: Tokyo Olympics bronze medallist boxer Lovlina Borgohain expressed her delight at India being named the host of the 2030 Commonwealth Games (CWG), saying it will inspire the younger generation to take up sports and represent India on the international stage, bringing honour to the country. At the Commonwealth Sport General Assembly in Glasgow on Wednesday, delegates of the 74 Commonwealth member nations and territories ratified Indias bid to host the Centenary Commonwealth Games in 2030. India presented a compelling vision for the 2030 Games, centred in the Gujarat city of Ahmedabad, which will build on foundations laid by Glasgow 2026, enabling India to celebrate the centenary in style. Speaking to IANS, Lovlina said, There are many opportunities for players now. When children see the Commonwealth Games taking place in India, it motivates them a lot. Many people come to watch these competitions. In 2010, when the CWG were held in India, we also dreamed of representing the country someday. Now, with India being the host nation for the 2030 CWG, it is a big achievement. Its happening here in Gujarat, which makes it even more special. The first Commonwealth Games were held in 1930 in Hamilton, Canada. Australia topped the medal table at the most recent Games, staged in Birmingham, England, in 2022, with the rest of the top five made up of England, Canada, India and New Zealand. When a country hosts a major competition, it gains many benefits, including winning more medals. The crowd and the players both feel highly motivated. A lot of young talent will feel inspired and confident that they, too, can achieve great things, she added. In September this year, Veer Savarkar Sports Complex in Naranpura, Ahmedabad, was inaugurated by Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Built at a cost of Rs 825 crore, the state-of-the-art facility is spread over 21 acres. When a country hosts a major competition, it gains many benefits, including winning more medals. The crowd and the players both feel highly motivated. A lot of young talent will feel inspired and confident that they, too, can achieve great things, she added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Our Prime Minister (Narendra Modi) is showing great interest in promoting sports other than cricket, and the environment has completely changed. He has done a lot for non-cricketing sports, and people now believe that India can excel in many disciplines, not just cricket, she added. Article Source: IANS
We Were Very Clear On What We Wanted And How We Were Going To Go About It, Says RCB Coach Rangarajan
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), the 2024 champions of the Womens Premier League (WPL), wrapped up their first-ever mega auction with a mix of marquee signings and talented uncapped players ahead of the new season, where they will be led by Smriti Mandhana. In a conversation with IANS, head coach Malolan Rangarajan spoke about how the auction went for the team, scouting process, the fitness of Pooja Vastrakar, roping in Gautami Naik and Prathyoosha Kumar, and more. Excerpts:- Q. What are your thoughts on how closely the strategy you prepared aligned with what you were able to achieve in auction? A. See, like you start getting bored of this, but everyone will say we got what we wanted or we got 85% to 90% of what we wanted. All I can say from an RCB point of view, we were very clear on what we wanted and how we were going to go about it. A lot of what happened in the auction room was very similar to the IPL 2025 mega auction from last year. So, a bit of experience from there, knowing that a lot of money is flying out of the auction in the first few sets. So that kept us aware of what was happening and like I said, the planning helped us to exactly know what we wanted, how we want to play and which kind of players fit our strategy. Q. Having worked with RCB in both mens and womens setups, what has motivated you to stay committed to womens cricket? Do you feel perceptions around coaching in the womens game are changing after the World Cup win? A. Absolutely. Even prior to the World Cup win, I think WPL was the catalyst for that change. The (ODI) World Cup win will propel that further. At least, I can only speak for myself. I don't want to generalize it. I never saw it like that. It was an opportunity to work with a bunch of cricketers, regardless of them being male, female. It doesn't matter. I am associated with RCB. RCB had picked another team in the WPL. I was given the opportunity to take up a role with the WPL team also. I wasn't going to say no. The greatest joy is to help players, and help RCB win as many titles as possible. Q. RCB has had a history of involving female coaches, from VR Vanitha, Courtney Winfield-Hill to Sunetra Paranjpe and now Anya Shrubsole. How important is it to continue that trend, given the limited presence of female coaches in the womens cricket ecosystem? A. I think, firstly, it starts with the fact that RCB got another team in a BCCI tournament. That's where it starts and it trickles down from the upwards. As far as having Courtney in the initial years, now having Sunetra and Anya, and absolutely Vanitha was there in year one. Even as part of our scouting team, we have Swagatika, and Krithika. But again, the way I see it, we want to have the best people involved. If it is women, yes, very good. I don't see it as men are better than women, or women are better. We need the right people. It does help having women involved in the staff because there's a level of comfort. So I think we have a good balance now. We have myself and RX and Aamya and Sunetra in our coaching staff. All massively experienced in their own way. So it's a good balance but I don't think it is a very conscious effort of (having) women (coaches). The consciousness comes from the fact that we want a team in the IPL and WPL and we'll do our best to make both teams as best as possible. Q. Youve been deeply involved in scouting for a long time. Could you walk us through your process - how much weight do you place on data and analytics, and the traditional eye test? A. What I would say is within scouting, it is often termed only as identifying unknown players. I think that's part of scouting and identifying players. The key bit for any organization is you need to identify players who are able to come and create an impact for the role. If that happens to be somebody who is an unknown, well and good. If it happens to be somebody who is an experienced player, why not? Talent ID extends to finding players who fit a role. That will be number one. As far as the question on data, I think it's a mix. It doesn't work in isolation. You need to have information from a data point of view. From the scout's eye test, we do a psychological evaluation of players and then you show them to our coaches who then try to validate the evaluation of our scouts. I think there are 4-5 parts to it. Once that's done, then it goes back to how we want to play. Does this player fit into our scheme of things? So it's not just going to a game, turning up to a game. This player is good, or that player is good. It doesn't work like that. There are layers to it and we have to take everything into consideration. Q. From a psychological standpoint, what are the non-negotiables you look for when identifying a player for RCB? A. Being very specific about psychology, we just try to, especially with the ones who haven't been exposed to the WPL level, or the international level, we just try to find out how well they can cope when they are with us in our trials. Then, once they are in our system, how can we support them? Because, having been part of RCB for the last 6-7 years, there is a lot of attention, be it the social media, and you'll see the difference even in the games we play. There's going to be a lot of crowd. So, you can't until they experience it, they're never going to understand what it is. But from our point of view, we have to prep them as best as we can. So, again, we try to find out what kind of support they need. Q. Could you share how the team identified someone like Gautami Naik and decided to invest in her at this mega auction? A. With Gautami, again, our scouts were very bullish about her ability. As someone who has got power, if you see her, she's a lanky individual, she's got very long levers, and she was part of our trials in Surat and Mumbai. In both rounds, she was there, and then we had our coaches also RX, Sunetra, myself, and we were able to send a couple of videos to Anya. So, having followed her closely, we saw that from a physical point of view and the skills required from the field, she's ticking all boxes. A good fielder, very athletic. Can bowl a couple of overs of off-spin also. We also had enough intel to know that there's a chance that she may not attract a lot of bids in the auction. But that's almost like a tertiary point. The primary point being is, she ticked most of the boxes. An uncapped player, and will she be able to withstand the pressures? Maybe it will be more when she plays. But an exciting player nonetheless. Q. Similarly, what stood out about Prathyusha Kumar that convinced you about her being the right fit for the squad? A. Pratyusha, again, she's been travelling with the RCB team for the last couple of years as a travelling wicketkeeper. So, we've followed her now for the last couple of years. She played the Maharani Trophy in Karnataka this year, had a decent outing and also played for Karnataka. So, we need a backup keeper to Richa and with someone like Pratyusha, who we've been following, there were a couple of other options. But, having seen her for the last two years, when she's been travelling with us, we knew that she could be someone we could pick and try to groom over the next couple of seasons. Q. Can you provide an update on Pooja Vastrakars fitness? Are you confident she will be ready in time for the season? A. We've shelled out some cash on her. But, officially, the BCCI has intimated to us that she's expected to be fit by the next month and we'll wait for that. The WPL is maybe 40-50 days away. We've been tracking her progress in the last couple of weeks. She's trending in the right direction and she's with the CoE. So, until she's with the COE, we'll have to wait for her to be released. But it sounds like she will be fit in the next couple of weeks. Q. RCB had tried getting Laura Wolvaardt, but you secured Georgia Voll instead. With her and Smriti Mandhana at the top, how exciting a prospect is this opening combination? A. Voll is, again, a player who's trending in the right direction. An exciting player and attacking batter - that would be something (great). If you look closely in our squad, we've looked for players who could play an attacking brand of cricket and Georgia Voll again gives us an option to bowl a couple of overs off-spin if required. Q. RCB had tried getting Laura Wolvaardt, but you secured Georgia Voll instead. With her and Smriti Mandhana at the top, how exciting a prospect is this opening combination? Also Read: Live Cricket Score We'll be playing in DY Patil Stadium. It requires a different set of batting. You go to Baroda (Vadodara), it's different. So, Voll comes in with a lot of hope with us and we've done our due diligence on her. She is a good fit for us. Article Source: IANS
Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant and other Indian players visited MS Dhoni's Ranchi home ahead of the ODI series against South Africa as the team regroups after the Test defeat. After dinner, MS Dhoni personally drove Virat Kohli back to the team hotel.
It Feels Like Home: Sree Charani 'very Happy' To Be Back With Delhi Capitals
Shree Charani: India spinner Sree Charani expressed her elation on being acquired by Delhi Capitals for Rs 1.3 crore in the WPL 2026 auction on Thursday for the upcoming season. Charani made her WPL debut with Delhi Capitals in 2025 when she was picked up for Rs 55 lakh in the auction held in 2024. Before the auction, I was just hoping to play in WPL this season with any team. But I am very happy to be back with Delhi Capitals. It feels like home and I love playing for this team, she said on JioHotstar. On her goals after returning to Delhi Capitals, the 21-year-old said, I feel very proud to be part of Delhi Capitals again. This is my chance to contribute to the team once more. I'm grateful to be back with DC and looking forward to a good season ahead. I'm just hoping for the best to happen for our team. Apart from Sree, Delhi Capitals' major picks in the auction were South Africa captain Laura Wolvaardt, West Indies all-rounder Chinelle Henry and India star Sneh Rana. Sneh brimmed with confidence about the upcoming season and said Srees pick was the best by the side. Our team combination looks very good, strong and well-sorted. Shree Charani remains Delhi's best young pick and I'm sure she'll do well this season. I'm hopeful we'll have a great season and finally lift the trophy this time, she said. Apart from Sree, Delhi Capitals' major picks in the auction were South Africa captain Laura Wolvaardt, West Indies all-rounder Chinelle Henry and India star Sneh Rana. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Sharing her emotion after the auction, Chinelle Henry said, Honestly, I was really nervous and excited. Now I can finally breathe again. I'm so happy to be returning to India and joining the DC family. I'm actually lost for words - just sitting here in my living room in Australia, feeling overwhelmed with joy. Article Source: IANS
Saudi Cricket and FairBreak announce new Women's World T20 Challenge
There are set to be at least five seasons and it will be the first professional women's cricket event in Saudi Arabia
Ayush Mhatre to lead India at the Men's Under-19 Asia Cup in Dubai
The 15-member squad also includes Vaibhav Suryavanshi, with Vihaan Malhotra as Mhatre's deputy
Very Pleased With How It Played Out, Says Klinger On GGs Squad After WPL Mega Auction
The Adani Sportsline: Gujarat Giants (GG) head coach Michael Klinger said he was very pleased with how the proceedings panned out in shaping the squad for the 2026 Womens Premier League (WPL) mega auction, held in the national capital on Thursday. The Adani Sportsline-owned franchise secured marquee signings of New Zealand veteran all-rounder Sophie Devine for Rs 2 crore before adding India pacer Renuka Singh Thakur for Rs 60 lakh. The franchise exercised its first RTM to re-acquire Bharti Fulmali for Rs 70 lakh and secured young seamer Titas Sadhu for Rs 30 lakh. Were very pleased with how the auction played out. We picked up the players we wanted and now have a dynamic squad that combines experienced leaders with energetic young players. As a coach, that balance gives us tremendous flexibility. Its always sad to say farewell to some previous players, but were excited for this new chapter. Our core values remain the same, an attacking, fearless mindset. Im confident well see an excellent turnout this season, said Klinger in a statement. In the accelerated round, Gujarat used their second RTM on Kashvee Gautam (Rs 65 lakh) and followed up with three successive buys Kanika Ahuja (Rs 30 lakh), left-arm spin bowling all-rounder Tanuja Kanwar (Rs 45 lakh) and Australia leg-spinner Georgia Wareham, who returned to the side for Rs 1 crore. GG further bolstered their squad with Australia all-rounder Kim Garth and local girl, wicketkeeper-batter Yastika Bhatia (both Rs 50 lakh), alongside talented domestic players Anushka Sharma (Rs 45 lakh), Happy Kumari (Rs 10 lakh) and Shivani Singh (Rs 10 lakh). We are very happy with how things unfolded for us at the auction. We now have several experienced players within the squad, who can guide the group and give us tremendous flexibility in how we build our playing combinations. GG further bolstered their squad with Australia all-rounder Kim Garth and local girl, wicketkeeper-batter Yastika Bhatia (both Rs 50 lakh), alongside talented domestic players Anushka Sharma (Rs 45 lakh), Happy Kumari (Rs 10 lakh) and Shivani Singh (Rs 10 lakh). Also Read: Live Cricket Score They closed proceedings with acquisition of England batter Danielle Wyatt-Hodge (Rs 50 lakh) and Rajeshwari Gayakwad (Rs 40 lakh), while investing in promising youngster Ayushi Soni for Rs 30 lakh. The 2026 WPL season will be held from January 9 to February 5 in Navi Mumbai and Vadodara. Article Source: IANS
India To Host Sri Lanka For Five-match Women T20I Series From Dec 21 To 30
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia: India will host Sri Lanka for a five-match womens T20I series from December 21 to 30, with the first two games to be played in Visakhapatnam before the remaining fixtures will be played in Thiruvananthapuram, said the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Friday. As per a statement by BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia, India and Sri Lanka will play first two T20Is on December 21 and 23 at the ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam. The remaining three matches will be played on December 26, 28 and 30 at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram. The announcement comes after Bangladeshs scheduled trip to India in December was postponed earlier this month amidst political tensions between the two countries, which had previously led to India mens tour of Bangladesh being postponed to September 2026. Visakhapatnam was the host to Indias league matches against South Africa and Australia during the 2025 Women's ODI World Cup, as well as for the sides ten-day pre-tournament camp. Thiruvananthapuram, meanwhile, will be playing hosts to womens international games for the first time after hosting mens T20Is and ODIs, as well as youth ODIs and Tests. The announcement comes after Bangladeshs scheduled trip to India in December was postponed earlier this month amidst political tensions between the two countries, which had previously led to India mens tour of Bangladesh being postponed to September 2026. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The T20I series against Sri Lanka will be followed by fourth edition of the Women's Premier League (WPL), to be played from January 9 to February 5, 2026 in Navi Mumbai and Vadodara, before India leaves for the multi-format tour of Australia happening from February 15 to March 6. Article Source: IANS
Tough To Put A Timeline On It: Hazlewood Eyeing Comeback In 'back End' Of Ashes
Josh Hazlewood: Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood says hes aiming to be available for the back end of the Ashes as he is still recovering from his hamstring injury. Hazlewood missed the opening Ashes Test in Perth after a second set of scans confirmed a right hamstring injury he sustained during a Sheffield Shield game for NSW shortly before the first Test, and has also been left out of the squad for the day-night second Test at the Gabba, starting on December 4, as Australia have named the unchanged squad for the second game. Hazlewood, however, has bowled in the nets this week in Sydney with a red ball, boosting hopes that he might get a shot in the later stage of the series, meaning the series may be decided by the time he bowls a Test delivery against England. Its coming along slowly. Ill have another bowl today; I just started the other day. Running and everythings going well, Hazlewood said at the SCG on Friday. Its probably tough to put a timeline on it. I think Ron (Australian coach Andrew McDonald) probably nailed it the other day play a part in the back end, hopefully. Hopefully its not still in the balance, hopefully were on top by then, he added. Hazlewood also stated that fellow quick and Australian captain Pat Cummins was looking strong ahead of a possible return for the Brisbane Test, which begins next Thursday at the Gabba, but Cummins was later left out of the squad and has been given an extra two weeks to return to full fitness. Its probably tough to put a timeline on it. I think Ron (Australian coach Andrew McDonald) probably nailed it the other day play a part in the back end, hopefully. Hopefully its not still in the balance, hopefully were on top by then, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Cummins trained strongly at the SCG on Friday, bowling at what appeared to be full speed to Steve Smith for more than an hour with a pink ball after getting through a similar session at NSW's Cricket Central headquarters on Tuesday and has a strong chance to return to the side for the third match in Adelaide beginning December 17. Article Source: IANS
Australia set to face Zimbabwe in three ODIs in 2026
The series will be tagged onto the tour of South Africa although ZC had also held out hope for a Test match
India to host Sri Lanka for five women's T20Is in December
The T20Is will be played just before WPL, and act as preparation for the T20 World Cup next year
The Khawaja debate: for and against his Test career continuing
Travis Head's remarkable century in Perth, and his comments that it's a role he has talked about doing, is posing a tough call for selectors
Prime Minister Narendra Modi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacted with the Indian Blind Womens T20 World Cup Champions at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg and engaged warmly with the players, acknowledging their determination and encouraging them to continue their journey with confidence and resilience. The team scripted history by winning the first-ever Blind Womens T20 World Cup in Sri Lanka, defeating Nepal by seven wickets in the final. India remained unbeaten throughout the tournament. PM Modi emphasised that those who move forward through hard work never fail, not only on the sports field but also in life. He noted that the players had created their own identity, which had strengthened their self-confidence. Highlighting the significance of 150 years of Vande Mataram, PM Modi observed that the teams spirit reflects the values of unity and national pride. He appreciated the musical talent of one of the players who sang devotional verses, connecting it with his own association with Kashi. In a light-hearted exchange, the Prime Minister compared the teams versatility to politics, remarking that just as in politics, individuals take on different roles, such as minister, MLA, or MP, the players too were all-rounders. The players shared personal stories of overcoming challenges, including societal prejudices and family hardships. One player recalled her late fathers dream of seeing her succeed and expressed that meeting the Prime Minister fulfilled that dream. In a light-hearted exchange, the Prime Minister compared the teams versatility to politics, remarking that just as in politics, individuals take on different roles, such as minister, MLA, or MP, the players too were all-rounders. Also Read: Live Cricket Score PM Modi concluded the interaction by extending his best wishes to the team, lauding their role in raising Indias profile globally and motivating countless others through their dedication and spirit. Article Source: IANS
Prime Minister Narendra Modi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared heartfelt and encouraging words with Indias inaugural T20 World Cup-winning Blind Womens Cricket Team as he hosted them at his residence on Lok Kalyan Marg. PM Modi greeted the players and coaching staff with the World Cup trophy and interacted with captain Deepika and other team members. He also offered sweets by hand to each member of the winning team and engaged in an encouraging and light-hearted conversation with the players. Congratulating the players during an interaction, the Prime Minister said, Those who work hard and move forward, their efforts never go in vain, not just on the field but in life as well. The Indian team also presented the Prime Minister with a signed bat. He also noted how the teams success had strengthened their self-belief. Your self-confidence must have grown too Earlier, you might have hesitated to talk to your teacher, wondering whether to speak or not, and now you are talking to the Prime Minister, PM Modi added with a smile. PM Modi said meeting the players fills him with pride, as their achievements symbolise Indias rapid progress and the courage of its youth. Whenever I meet you all, I feel proudseeing how far our country is progressing and how much courage these children have, he said. In a light-hearted moment during his interaction with the players, PM Modi compared their on-field ruthlessness to an election analogy. Just like in elections when the opponents deposit gets forfeited you all sent some teams back in just 10 overs. Why are you so ruthless? he said, drawing laughter from the players. The team scripted history by winning the first-ever Blind Womens T20 World Cup in Sri Lanka, defeating Nepal by seven wickets in the final. India remained unbeaten throughout the tournament. In a light-hearted moment during his interaction with the players, PM Modi compared their on-field ruthlessness to an election analogy. Just like in elections when the opponents deposit gets forfeited you all sent some teams back in just 10 overs. Why are you so ruthless? he said, drawing laughter from the players. Also Read: Live Cricket Score This is indeed a historic sporting achievement, a shining example of hardwork, team work and determination. Each player is a champion! My best wishes to the team for their future endeavours. This feat will inspire generations to come. Article Source: IANS
Cummins misses Brisbane Test, Australia name unchanged 14
Usman Khawaja has kept his place in the squad after the back spasms that limited his role in Perth
Sunil Gavaskar Calls For 'Post-Mortem' After India Test Debacle
Batting great Sunil Gavaskar has called for a post-mortem into India Test cricket after their aura of home invincibility was blown away by a second series whitewash in 12 months. South Africa inflicted a record 408-run defeat on India in the second Test on Wednesday to take the series 2-0. It was India's fifth defeat in their last seven home Tests dating back just over a year to New Zealand's 3-0 sweep. You need to do a thorough post-mortem as to areas that you need to strengthen at the Test level, Gavaskar told TV channel India Today. Bring in an outside perspective. Take Ravi Shastri, Rahul Dravid -- your two earlier coaches. Take Anil Kumble, Sourav Ganguly, Sachin Tendulkar. Sit with them and formulate for the next five years what Indian cricket should be doing. Head coach Gautam Gambhir has come under severe criticism for constantly changing the batting order. But Gavaskar defended Gambhir, saying the players had to take responsibility. He's a coach, said Gavaskar. The coach can prepare a team. But it's out there in the middle that the players have to deliver. If you're not prepared to give him credit for the Champions Trophy and the Asia Cup win, then please tell me why you want to blame him for the team out there on that 22-yard strip not doing well, Gavaskar added. India's batting flopped in the series with their first innings total of 201 in Guwahati their best against an inspired South Africa spin attack led by Simon Harmer. The hosts lost the opening Test inside three days in Kolkata and in the second match mustered only 140, chasing a mammoth 549 target on day five. There was an aura around the Indian team when playing in India. You can see it disappearing in the distance, veteran commentator Harsha Bhogle wrote on X. Former India wicketkeeper Dinesh Karthik said: Teams used to be scared of coming to India to play Test cricket. Now they must be licking their lips. A second whitewash in a span of 12 months. These are tough times for India in Test cricket, and tough decisions might have to be taken. India last month registered a home 2-0 series sweep against a depleted West Indies after drawing 2-2 in England in captain Shubman Gill's first series in charge after the retirements of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Also Read: Live Cricket Score
Nagal bows out of Australian Open Asia-Pacific wild card play-off tournament
Nagal, seeded sixth in the tournament, lost 2-6 2-6 to Yunchaokete Bu of China
2026 WPL Auction: Deepti, Charani Headline World Cup Performers Landing Big Paydays (Ld)
ODI World Cup: The first ever Womens Premier League (WPL) mega auction lived up to the expectations of several World Cup-winning Indian players commanding hefty bids in a cool evening at the National capital on Thursday. Indias premier off-spin bowling all-rounder Deepti Sharma became the joint second-most expensive player in WPLs history after being reclaimed by UP Warriorz for INR 3.2 crore via the Right to Match (RTM) option. Deepti, the Player of the Tournament in the recent Womens ODI World Cup, could have been taken by Delhi Capitals for INR 50 lakh, before UPW took her eventually to make her the costliest player in Thursdays proceedings. DC also invested heavily in N Sree Charani, Indias second-highest wicket-taker in the World Cup, for INR 1.3 crore, and added Sneh Rana for INR 50 lakh. South Africa captain Laura Wolvaardt was another marquee signing, joining DC for INR 1.1 crore. UP Warriorz, meanwhile, brought back pacer Kranti Gaud at her base price of INR 50 lakh and secured Harleen Deol as well as Pratika Rawal for the same amount. They also made one of the days biggest splashes by signing veteran seamer Shikha Pandey for INR 2.4 crore, alongside young Australia batter Phoebe Litchfield for INR 1.2 crore. Royal Challengers Bengaluru strengthened their domestic core with Radha Yadav for INR 65 lakh and Arundhati Reddy for INR 75 lakh. Gujarat Giants picked up Renuka Singh for INR 60 lakh and New Zealands Sophie Devine for INR 2 crore, making her the fourth player to cross the two-crore mark. GG also added India spinner Tanuja Kanwar and Australia leg spinner Georgia Wareham to bolster their bowling depth. Mumbai Indians regained New Zealand all-rounder Amelia Kerr for INR 3 crore, ensuring continuity in their overseas contingent. They also got their previous players Shabnim Ismail, Sanskriti Gupta, S Sajana and Saika Ishaque back, apart from adding a few newbies. Australia skipper Alyssa Healy went unsold, even as Sophie Devine, back after missing 2025, was snapped up by GG for INR 2 crore following a tussle with RCB and DC. UPW secured former DC captain Meg Lanning for INR 1.9 crore, potentially lining her up as their new leader. South Africa skipper Laura Wolvaardt went to DC for INR 1.1 crore, ruling out a Mandhana-Wolvaardt opening pair at RCB. UPW used multiple RTM cards, reclaiming Kiran Navgire, and pacer Kranti Gaud, while also adding Phoebe Litchfield (INR 1.2 crore) and Shikha Pandey (INR 2.4 crore). RCB bolstered their spin and allrounder options with Radha Yadav (INR 65 lakh), Arundhati Reddy (INR 75 lakh), Nadine de Klerk (INR 65 lakh) and England pacer Lauren Bell (INR 90 lakh). GG added Renuka Singh (INR 60 lakh), Georgia Wareham (INR 1 crore) and India quick Titas Sadhu (INR 30 lakh), while DC picked up Charani, Sneh, West Indies hitter Chinelle Henry (INR 1.3 crore) and former South Africa keeper Lizelle Lee (INR 30 lakh). While several uncapped names went unsold, Delhi Capitals invested in 16-year-old Deeya Yadav for INR 10 lakh. The auction also veteran India leg-spinner Asha Sobhana joining UPW for INR 1.1 crore, underlining the demand for spin depth across franchises. UPW also picked Deandra Dottin for INR 80 lakh and reclaimed Pratika Rawal for INR 50 lakh despite fitness concerns. RCB strengthened their domestic core with Arundhati Reddy (INR 75 lakh), Pooja Vastrakar (INR 85 lakh) and Grace Harris (INR 75 lakh), while also adding Dayalan Hemalatha and uncapped keeper Prathyoosha Kumar. GG exercised their RTM to bring back Kashvee Gautam for INR 65 lakh and added Georgia Wareham for INR 1 crore, alongside Anushka Sharma, Tanuja Kanwar, Yastika Bhatia and Englands Danni Wyatt-Hodge. MI added Nicola Carey and uncapped pacer Milly Illingworth, while DC picked up Mamatha Madiwala, Lucy Hamilton and India allrounder Minnu Mani, while UPW rounded off their roster with Tara Norris, Chloe Tryon, Simran Shaikh and U19 World Cup winner G Trisha. The final accelerated round ended with Gujarat Giants signing Delhi batter Ayushi Soni for INR 30 lakh, bringing the curtain down on the WPL 2026 mega auction. WPL 2026 full squads Delhi Capitals: Shafali Verma, Annabel Sutherland, Jemimah Rodrigues, Marizanne Kapp, Shree Charani, Chinelle Henry, Laura Wolvaardt, Niki Prasad, Sneh Rana, Taniya Bhatia, Lizelle Lee, Deeya Yadav, Mamatha Madiwala, Nandani Sharma, Lucy Hamilton, Minnu Mani Gujarat Giants: Ashleigh Gardner, Beth Mooney, Sophie Devine, Georgia Wareham, Bharti Fulmali, Kashvee Gautam, Renuka Singh, Yastika Bhatia, Anushka Sharma, Tanuja Kanwar, Kanika Ahuja, Titas Sadhu, Happy Kumari, Kim Garth, Shivani Singh, Danielle Wyatt-Hodge, Rajeshwari Gayakwad, Ayushi Soni Mumbai Indians: Nat Sciver-Brunt, Amelia Kerr, Harmanpreet Kaur, Hayley Matthews, Amanjot Kaur, Sajeevan Sajana, Shabnim Ismail, Gunalan Kullkarni, Nicola Carey, Sanskriti Gupta, Rahil Firdous, Poonam Khemnar, Triveni Vasistha, Nalla Reddy, Saika Ishaque, Milly Illingworth Gujarat Giants: Ashleigh Gardner, Beth Mooney, Sophie Devine, Georgia Wareham, Bharti Fulmali, Kashvee Gautam, Renuka Singh, Yastika Bhatia, Anushka Sharma, Tanuja Kanwar, Kanika Ahuja, Titas Sadhu, Happy Kumari, Kim Garth, Shivani Singh, Danielle Wyatt-Hodge, Rajeshwari Gayakwad, Ayushi Soni Also Read: Live Cricket Score UP Warriorz: Deepti Sharma, Shikha Pandey, Meg Lanning, Phoebe Litchfield, Asha Sobhana, Sophie Ecclestone, Deandra Dottin, Kiran Navgire, Kranti Gaud, Shweta Sehrawat, Harleen Deol, Chloe Tryon, Suman Meena, Simran Shaikh, G Trisha, Pratika Rawal Article Source: IANS
2026 WPL Auction: Shikha Gets INR 2.4 Crore, Yastika And Pratika Find Takers As Proceedings End
ODI World Cup: Veteran India seamer Shikha Pandey became one of the top three buys in the 2026 WPL mega auction, while Yastika Bhatia and Pratika Rawal found teams despite injury concerns on Thursday. UP Warriorz shelled out INR 2.4 crore for buying Shikha, as in all 67 players were sold 23 of which were overseas players for INR 40.8 crore. The accelerated round began with Deandra Dottin going to UPW for INR 80 lakh after a brief tussle with RCB. Kashvee Gautam was brought back by GG via RTM for INR 65 lakh, after thwarting bids from MI and UPW. Shikha, the veteran Indian fast bowler, sparked a fierce bidding war between RCB and UPW driving the price past INR 2 crore. UPW eventually outlasted RCB to get her services for INR 2.4 crore. ODI World Cup winner, seam-bowling all-rounder Arundhati Reddy drew bids from DC, RCB and GG before the contest settled in Bengalurus favour at INR 75 lakh. At RCB, Arundhati will reunite with close friends Smriti Mandhana and Radha Yadav. MI, meanwhile, reclaimed Sajana Sajeevan after a bidding tussle with UP Warriorz for INR 75 lakh. India allrounder Pooja Vastrakar, currently in rehab after missing WPL 2025 with a shoulder injury, still attracted bids from RCB and UPW before the former secured her for INR 85 lakh. Uncapped wicketkeeper Rahila Firdous went to MI for INR 10 lakh, while India all-rounder Kanika Ahuja was picked by GG for INR 30 lakh. Left-arm spinner Tanuja Kanwar rejoined GG for INR 45 lakh after dodging DC. Australia leg spinner Georgia Wareham was snapped up by GG for INR 1 crore after edging RCB. Uncapped Indian allrounder Anushka Sharma went to GG for INR 45 lakh, with a wry smile present on RCB think tank table. Australian all-rounder Nicola Carey was picked by MI for INR 30 lakh. After that, all five teams were asked to nominate 10 names each as the auction moved into the second accelerated phase after a short break. The second round saw S Meghana, Amy Jones and Darcie Brown go unsold. But Grace Harris found takers with RCB and UPW, her previous team, in the contest before the former took her for INR 75 lakh. Wicketkeeper Shipra Giri drew interest from UPW, who signed her for INR 10 lakh, while Mamatha Madiwala was added to DCs roster at the same price. Pacer Happy Kumari was snapped up by GG at her base price of INR 10 lakh, while Australias Kim Garth was picked by the same team for INR 50 lakh. There was a tussle between UPW and GG for India wicketkeeper-batter Yastika Bhatia, before the latter picked her for INR 50 lakh. UPW, meanwhile, picked hard-hitting batter Simran Shaikh for INR 10 lakh, while MI took Poonam Khemnar for the same amount and wicketkeeper Shivani Singh was roped in by GG for the very same price. USA pacer Tara Norris, who picked a five-for in WPL 2023, was picked by UPW for INR 10 lakh, while the franchise also took South Africa all-rounder Chole Tryon for INR 30 lakh. Uncapped Australia pacer Lucy Hamilton was picked by DC for INR 10 lakh, while all-rounder Triveni Vasistha was taken by MI for INR 20 lakh and Suman Meena was roped in by UPW for INR 10 lakh. RCB roped in off-spin all-rounder Gautami Naik for INR 10 lakh, while MI took seam-bowling all-rounder Nalla Reddy for the same amount. In the final accelerated round, India left-arm spinner Saika Ishaque was picked by MI for INR 30 lakh, while UPW took two-time U19 World Cup winner G Trisha for INR 10 lakh. USA pacer Tara Norris, who picked a five-for in WPL 2023, was picked by UPW for INR 10 lakh, while the franchise also took South Africa all-rounder Chole Tryon for INR 30 lakh. Uncapped Australia pacer Lucy Hamilton was picked by DC for INR 10 lakh, while all-rounder Triveni Vasistha was taken by MI for INR 20 lakh and Suman Meena was roped in by UPW for INR 10 lakh. Also Read: Live Cricket Score DC added India allrounder Minnu Mani for INR 40 lakh, while RCB strengthened their middle order with former GG batter Dayalan Hemalatha for INR 30 lakh. GG signing Delhi batter Ayushi Soni for INR 30 lakh brought the curtains down on the WPL 2026 mega auction. Article Source: IANS
Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi: Para-Olympic athlete Bhavnaben Chaudhary has expressed her joy after Ahmedabad was awarded the hosting rights for the 2030 Commonwealth Games. Calling it a historic and emotional moment for Indian sports, she said, It is a proud moment for India. After 20 years, we have once again received the opportunity to host the Commonwealth Games. This event will strengthen New Indias global identity. For young athletes across the country, it is a matter of honour that the 2030 Commonwealth Games will take place in India. Bhavana emphasised the long-standing commitment of Prime Minister Narendra Modis towards Indian sports and athletes. The Prime Minister has always supported sports and boosted the morale of young athletes. In 2010, India performed strongly at the Commonwealth Games and in 2030 we will be even better, Bhavanaben Chaudhary told IANS. The Amdavad 2030 organisers will work with Commonwealth Sport and international federations to finalise a programme of 1517 sports aligned with the recent Sport Programme Review, with additional disciplines such as cricket T20, shooting, hockey, wrestling, judo, rugby sevens, and 3x3 basketball under consideration, besides the option for two new sports proposed by the host. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modis vision, Ahmedabad has emerged as a world-class sports destination with state-of-the-art infrastructure, advanced training ecosystems, and international-standard facilities. Sports experts believe the Games will enhance Indias global sporting stature while boosting tourism, employment, and economic growth. At the Sports Authority of India (SAI) centre in Gandhinagar, athletes are already intensifying their preparations, driven by a shared sense of pride and opportunity. Kabaddi player Somveer Mehra expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Prime Minister, calling the announcement a defining moment: It is a matter of great happiness that after 20 years India is once again going to host the Commonwealth Games. Athletes from other countries will come here, and we will get so much to learn from them. Mehra, who has previously won gold for India, is confident about 2030: We are preparing hard for the 2030 Games. We have won gold for India in the past, and we will once again give our best to make the country proud, Somveer Mehra, Kabaddi player. Kabaddi player Somveer Mehra expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Prime Minister, calling the announcement a defining moment: It is a matter of great happiness that after 20 years India is once again going to host the Commonwealth Games. Athletes from other countries will come here, and we will get so much to learn from them. Also Read: Live Cricket Score She also credited PM Modis perspective on sports. The Prime Minister has always viewed sports from a different and encouraging lens. His role in bringing the Commonwealth Games to India has been crucial. Article Source: IANS
ODI World Cup: UP Warriorz mentor Lisa Sthalekar said the franchise was unable to retain Deepti Sharma ahead of the WPL 2026 mega auction because of the players we needed in the initial sets, but expressed relief at having the India all-rounder back in the squad. At the ongoing WPL 2026 mega auction in New Delhi, Deepti, the Player of the Tournament in Indias recent Womens ODI World Cup, became the joint second-most expensive player in the leagues auction history when UPW exercised their Right to Match (RTM) card to reclaim her for INR 3.2 crore. No, we needed to have a bigger purse. Obviously, if you retain a capped player like Deepti Sharma, you're losing 3.5 crore anyway from your purse. So, it was about being able to have some flexibility to navigate and pick up the players that we wanted to in probably the first one and two sets because there was a lot of good players that we needed in that set. So, that's the reason why she wasnt retained. But thankfully, she's come back, Lisa told reporters on the sidelines of the auction on Thursday. Asked on getting Australia opener Phoebe Litchfield, Lisa said, I think Phoebe Litchfield has got the ability to play 360 degree. She loves Indian conditions. She loves Indian bowlers. We know that with her record. She's going to be a powerhouse and we're hoping to kind of develop her over these next couple of years with the UP Warriorz. Lisa said the think-tank was happy with their auction buys so far, but admitted to being surprised over getting back Sophie Ecclestone as a bargain buy. We're happy so far. We've still got a few spots to fill. So, this next little phase will be really important for us. But at the moment, we're tracking according to plan. To be fair, I was very surprised about the price of Sophie Ecclestone. 85 lakh, I think, is an absolute bargain for what she brings. So, that has helped us to be able to gain and bid for other players just to fill our squad a little bit more with depth. Getting leg-spinner Asha Sobhana was important too from a experience perspective. We needed someone in the middle. Obviously, a wrist spinner as well is very important. She's got good speeds. She's already been there and done it at a WPL level. So, we're excited to see what she can potentially do for us, said Lisa. She also felt pleased over N Sree Charani getting INR 1.3 crore. Well, look at all of you, right? There's a prime example. Normally, there was like one or two of you. Now, I'm absolutely crowded by reporters. So, that's a great thing for the women's game. We've probably seen someone like Sree Charani as well. Her performances in the World Cup has probably elevated her price. Obviously, 50 over T20 cricket is slightly different. But she's performed well and she deserves everything she gets. Getting pacer Kranti Gaud cheaply for INR 50 lakh was huge, said UPW fielding coach Saurabh Bandekar. I think it took everyone by surprise but we knew that not many people would potentially bid for her knowing that we had the RTM so it was okay. I think we were all expecting it because our purse was very big. We were getting the players we had planned for at a good price. So, this was expected, I guess, he told reporters. He also talked about head coach Abhishek Nayar heading the sides auction strategy. He gave the most input. He is the head coach. One good thing about him was that he was very clear. So, our plan was to be clear, go with the plan and stay disciplined. So, I think that worked today. Getting Deepti and Sophie back again was a big positive for the side. I am very excited. Everyone knows the quality of Sophie Ecclestone and Deepti Sharma. They have done a great job for us in the past as well. As far as Phoebe Litchfield is concerned, she is a very good prospect, and exciting talent. She can make runs anywhere on the ground and she is very good at fielding as well. So, we are very excited about that as well, added Bandekar. Getting Deepti and Sophie back again was a big positive for the side. I am very excited. Everyone knows the quality of Sophie Ecclestone and Deepti Sharma. They have done a great job for us in the past as well. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Harleen Deol has gone through a very good year. She has made a lot of runs. In India, she is probably after Smriti, Jemimah and Harman who have made very good runs. We have seen Kranti, she did very well last year for us. She brings two skills for us - good bowling with the new ball and is very good at fielding as well. So, we are very happy. Article Source: IANS
Keep up to date with all the movements around the counties ahead of the 2025 season
Delighted That UP Warriorz Bought Me Back: Deepti Sharma
Match Centre Live Auction Special: Deepti Sharma was sold for 3.2 crore to UP Warriorz via right-to-match, making her the joint-second most expensive player at the WPL. After initially being sold to Delhi Capitals for her base price of Rs. 50 lakh, the Warriorz went for the RTM option, asking DC to give a final amount. With the three-time runner-up finalising Rs. 3.2 crore as the bidding amount and UPW agreed to the same and bought back the World Cup-winning all-rounder for a higher price. Deepti shared her enthusiasm upon rejoining UPW on JioHotstars Match Centre Live Auction Special, after the team won the bidding battle with DC. Im from Uttar Pradesh and have strong ties with UP Warriorz. The management has always been excellent and supportive. The auction was thrilling from the start, and Im delighted that the UP Warriorz bought me back. Im excited to represent them again. The WPL has played a massive role in my development. The year I won MVP, and even prior to that, the intense practice on expanding my batting shots paid off tremendously. That season helped me mature significantly as a batter, teaching me how to elevate my strike-rate strategically by adapting my game plan. For me, thats been WPLs biggest contribution. The atmosphere has been great right from the start. Im feeling really positive seeing new players from different teams join UP Warriorz. Having played with many of them before creates a comfortable vibe. The management remains incredibly supportive, and as I mentioned earlier, the changes I made to my batting two years ago were transformative for me. The WPL has played a massive role in my development. The year I won MVP, and even prior to that, the intense practice on expanding my batting shots paid off tremendously. That season helped me mature significantly as a batter, teaching me how to elevate my strike-rate strategically by adapting my game plan. For me, thats been WPLs biggest contribution. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Its tough to pick just one because players like Phoebe Litchfield and Meg Lanning are performing brilliantly. Meg Lanning has been outstanding in the Big Bash (League), while Harleen Deol shone in the World Cup. Theyre all exciting additions, but if I had to choose, Id go with Phoebe Litchfield. Article Source: IANS
2026 WPL Auction: Anyas Intel Has Been Invaluable, Shes Been Brilliant So Far, Says Malolan
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Royal Challengers Bengaluru head coach Malolan Rangarajan said newly appointed assistant coach Anya Shrubsoles intel has been invaluable in their 2026 WPL mega auction strategy, adding that the former England seamer has been brilliant in her role so far. RCB underlined that England influence by snapping up fast bowler Lauren Bell and left-arm spinner Linsey Smith. First of all, Anya is someone we've wanted on board for a while now and we're very very happy that she's part of our think tank and our set-up. For all the Indians, I will have to unfortunately remind everyone of the 2017 tragic she gave to us. But jokes apart, we've been working with Anya for the last couple of weeks planning our retentions and auctions. It's a coincidence that we have Anya, Lauren Bell and Linsey Smith, so don't have to make any untowards connections there. It was a clear battle between MI and us for the pacer and we are very happy with that. Anya brings a wealth of experience having played for England successfully and also captained franchises and teams around the world who are doing well. You can see the level of calm and intel she brings on board. Its invaluable and can't put it into words, but she's been brilliant so far and I am she'll be even better in the tournament, said Malolan, while replying to an IANS query, in the press conference. Asked about missing out on buying back leg-spinner Asha Sobhana, who was snapped by UP Warriorz for INR 1.1 crore, Malolan said, Talking about Asha first, obviously she was an integral part in RCB's win in 2024, obviously we missed her in 2025 with her injury. Personally I'm very happy for her, she's got a good payday, someone who really deserves what she's got, and knowing her on a very personal front, so I'm very happy for her. As far as what our strategy has been and what we've achieved so far, we've more or less ticked off what we're looking for, trying to get as much as bowling and with our retained players, the idea was trying to supplement them and make them as better as possible. So, very happy with where we are at the moment, still got a little bit of work left, but happy at the moment. Mumbai Indians have been buying back their core players Amelia Kerr, Shabnim Ismail, and Sanskriti Gupta. Head coach Lisa Keightley said getting the trio back was important to their tactic of getting old players back for their title defence. Firstly, we're really excited to have the same core back, we've got world class players in there who can win matches and games of cricket, which is most important. I think sometimes you can underestimate having the same core back. Mumbai Indians have been buying back their core players Amelia Kerr, Shabnim Ismail, and Sanskriti Gupta. Head coach Lisa Keightley said getting the trio back was important to their tactic of getting old players back for their title defence. Also Read: Live Cricket Score We were pretty much on the limit with Amelia, I think most people would have known that, but we think she's worth the money, so we're really excited to have her back, she concluded. Article Source: IANS
PM Narendra Modi Hosts World Cup Winning Blind Women's Team
Prime Minister Narendra Modi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosted the Indian Blind Womens Cricket Team, winners of the inaugural T20 World Cup, at his residence in Lok Kalyan Marg here on Wednesday. Indian team made history by winning the first-ever Blind Women's T20 World Cup in Sri Lanka, beating Nepal by seven wickets in the final. The PM was greeted with the World Cup trophy along with all the players and coaching staff. PM was seen interacting with the captain of Indian team Deepika and other players also offering them sweet with his own hand. The teams success marked a perfect campaign, with India remaining unbeaten throughout the tournament, demonstrating complete dominance. Opting to field first after winning the toss, India restricted Nepal to 114 for 5 in their 20 overs. The chase was nothing short of clinical as India surpassed the target in just 12.1 overs with 47 balls to spare. Khula Sharir emerged as the stand-out performer, scoring an unbeaten 44 off 27 balls, including four boundaries, to guide India home comfortably. In the semi-final, India secured a commanding nine-wicket victory over Australia, while Nepal advanced to the final by narrowly defeating Pakistan in the other last-four encounter. Opting to field first after winning the toss, India restricted Nepal to 114 for 5 in their 20 overs. The chase was nothing short of clinical as India surpassed the target in just 12.1 overs with 47 balls to spare. Khula Sharir emerged as the stand-out performer, scoring an unbeaten 44 off 27 balls, including four boundaries, to guide India home comfortably. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Indias emphatic title run not only highlights their consistency but also marks a major milestone for blind cricket, paving the way for increased recognition and growth of the sport in the coming years. Article Source: IANS
Rajat Patidar cleared to play after knee injury
The MP captain will be available from the third round of SMAT matches on November 30
2026 WPL Auction: Prema Bought Back By RCB, MI Regain Sanskriti, Deeya Bought In By DC
Royal Challengers Bangalore: Mumbai Indians brought back off-spin bowling all-rounder Sanskriti Gupta at her base price of INR 20 lakh, while Royal Challengers Bangalore exercised their Right to Match (RTM) card to reclaim leg-spin bowling all-rounder Prema Rawat in 2026 Womens Premier League (WPL) mega auction. Delhi Capitals, meanwhile, picked up 16-year-old Gurugram-based batting prodigy Deeya Yadav for INR 10 lakh, as a majority of uncapped Indian talent went unsold. But theres an expectation that they could find takers in the accelerated round. In the uncapped batters set, Pranavi Chandra, Davina Perrin, Vrinda Dinesh, Disha Kasat, Arushi Goel and Sanika Chalke found no takers. But Deeya got a bid from DC and was picked for her base price. In DC, Deeya will unite with her fellow Haryana team-mate, opening all-rounder Shafali Verma. Deeya came into the attention of scouts after enjoying a breakout time in the Senior Women's T20 Trophy, amassing 298 runs in eight innings at an impressive average of 59.5 and a strike rate of 128, including hitting three half-centuries. Deeya maintained her explosive form in the inter-zonal T20 competition in Nagaland, amassing 151 runs in six innings at a strike rate of 149.5, and took North Zone to the final. Sanskriti, hailing from Madhya Pradesh, was brought back by MI for her base price of INR 20 lakh. It continued MIs policy of bringing back their old players, after previously buying back Shabnim Ismail and Amelia Kerr. Deeya maintained her explosive form in the inter-zonal T20 competition in Nagaland, amassing 151 runs in six innings at a strike rate of 149.5, and took North Zone to the final. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The players who didnt find takers include Humaira Kaazi, Amandeep Kaur, G Trisha, Jintimani Kalita, S Yashasri, Shipra Giri, Mamatha Madiwala, Khushi Bhatia, Prathyoosha Kumar, Nandini Kashyap, Happy Kumari, Nandini Sharma, Komalpreet Kour, Milly Illingworth, Shabnam Shakil, Prakashika Naik, Bharti Rawal, Priyanka Koushal, Parunika Sisodia and Jagravi Pawar. Article Source: IANS
Pakistan opt to bowl in must-win game for Sri Lanka
Pakistan bring in Salman Mirza and Abrar Ahmed for Naseem Shah and Usman Tariq; Sri Lanka are unchanged
2026 WPL Auction: Its Too Early To Say On Who Would Captain UP Warriorz, Says Waingankar
ODI World Cup: UP Warriorz director of cricket Kshemal Waingankar said it was oo early to say who would lead the side in the upcoming WPL season, after buying back Deepti Sharma and including multi-time World Cup-winning captain Meg Lanning. At the mega auction in New Delhi, Deepti, the Player of the Tournament in the recent Womens ODI World Cup, became the joint second-most expensive player in WPL auction history after UPW used their Right to Match (RTM) card to reclaim her for INR 3.2 crore. UPW also added Australia Meg for INR 1.9 crore. We will discuss that, I mean it's too early to say. It depends on how the squad comes through and we'll have to have a conversation. We'll have to have a conversation with Deepti, understand the dynamics with the leadership, and we haven't thought that through yet. Definitely expected the price to be in the range of what we saw. As you see, we tried to go for Amelia Kerr, and she went up to three crores. Its the premium that you pay for high quality spin bowling all-rounder and there was no doubt that we wanted her back, said Waingankar in the press conference. Asked on why Deepti wasnt retained before, Waingankar said, There were certain dynamics in the entire auction process and the retention process. So since we had Abhishek now coming at the helm, I think we wanted to give him a clean slate and to be able to figure out what his vision is and try to build a squad together. We had no doubt that we'd be able to bring Deepti back, which we have and we're very delighted to be able to bring her back as well. To add to that, we've also been able to bring Sophie back and a leader like Meg Lanning in the mix as well. So I think so far it's played out well, let's see how the rest of the auction goes. Asked on why Deepti wasnt retained before, Waingankar said, There were certain dynamics in the entire auction process and the retention process. So since we had Abhishek now coming at the helm, I think we wanted to give him a clean slate and to be able to figure out what his vision is and try to build a squad together. Also Read: Live Cricket Score It adds eight overs of really high quality bowling and they add experience due to both of them being World Cup winners. Renuka can give us a really good start with the new ball and Sophie can bowl in all three phases and bat anywhere from one to six. Two picks were really important for us in terms of giving us that flexibility and now we'll see how we go in the coming sets, he said. Article Source: IANS
'The Entire Nation Is Proud Of You All': PM Modi Lauds Deaflympians For Historic Medal Tally
Prime Minister Narendra Modi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday congratulated Deaflympians for their extraordinary performance at the recently concluded 25th Summer Deaflympics 2025 in Tokyo. At the 2025 Deaflympics, India took home 20 medals, nine gold, seven silver, and four bronze. 16 medals were won by Indian shooters. Heartiest congratulations to our Deaflympians for their extraordinary performance at the 25th Summer Deaflympics 2025 in Tokyo. With a historic best-ever medal tally of 20 medals including 9 Golds, our athletes have once again proven that determination and dedication can lead to outstanding results. Compliments to every athlete, coach and support staff. The entire nation is proud of you all! posted PM Modi on X. This exceeded the 16 medals (eight gold, one silver, and seven bronze) that Indian competitors had won from Caxias do Sul in 2022, making it India's best-ever performance at any Deaflympics. With 12 athletes, shooting had the largest Indian contingent, followed by athletics with 11 players. Dhanush Srikanth defended his 10m air rifle title with a new world record score of 252.2 and Mohammad Vania taking home the silver in the same event; the shooters claimed India's first medals in Tokyo. Minutes later, in the women's 10m air rifle competition, Mahit Sandhu and Komal Waghmare took home silver and bronze, respectively. A rifle ace with four medals - two gold and two silver - Mahit Sandhu was the most successful shooter. Anuya Prasad broke the previous world record in the women's 10-meter air pistol competition. Minutes later, in the women's 10m air rifle competition, Mahit Sandhu and Komal Waghmare took home silver and bronze, respectively. A rifle ace with four medals - two gold and two silver - Mahit Sandhu was the most successful shooter. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Olympian Diksha Dagar, who finished 14 strokes ahead of her closest rival, successfully defended her Deaflympics title in the women's golf event in Tokyo 2025. Article Source: IANS
2026 WPL Auction: RCB Snap Bell And Smith, Lee Picked By DC, UP Include Gaud And Sobhana
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: 2024 winners Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) added England fast bowler Lauren Bell and left-arm spinner Linsey Smith to their roster at the 2026 Womens Premier League (WPL) mega auction on Thursday. Delhi Capitals secured former South Africa wicketkeeper-batter Lizelle Lee, while UP Warriorz exercised their final Right to Match (RTM) card to bring back India pacer Kranti Gaud and brought in leg-spinner Asha Sobhana. Mumbai Indians continued their strategy of getting back old players by including Shabnim Ismail, while Gujarat Giants got in India fast bowler Titas Sadhu. In the keepers category, there were no takers for Isabella Gaze, Amy Jones and Uma Chetry, who was a member of Indias ODI World Cup-winning campaign. Lizelle Lee, the former South Africa opener and wicketkeeper now based in Australia, was claimed by DC for INR 30 lakh. Lauren, the fast bowler from England, was the first name in the pacers set, with RCB and MI trading early bids before the former sealed her services at INR 90 lakh. Known for her ability to hit the deck and swing the ball both ways, Lauren will now reunite with Smriti Mandhana at RCB, who was her former Southern Brave team-mate at The Hundred. While the Australian duo of Darcie Brown and Lauren Cheatle found no takers, Indias ODI World Cup-winning fast bowler Kranti Gaud was back with UPW after the franchise exercised their final RTM card. Listed at a base price of INR 50 lakh, Kranti drew a solitary bid from DC before UPW reclaimed her for her base price. Lauren, the fast bowler from England, was the first name in the pacers set, with RCB and MI trading early bids before the former sealed her services at INR 90 lakh. Known for her ability to hit the deck and swing the ball both ways, Lauren will now reunite with Smriti Mandhana at RCB, who was her former Southern Brave team-mate at The Hundred. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Asha, the veteran India leg-spinner, was at the centre of a bidding war between DC and UPW before RCB entered at INR 60 lakh and drove the contest past INR 1 crore. But UPW eventually got her services for INR 1.1 crore. There were no takes for the likes of Priya Mishra, Amanda-Jade Wellington, Saika Ishaque, and Alana King. Article Source: IANS
Bangladesh win toss and bowl; Little and Adair back for Ireland
Bangladesh picked five out-and-out bowlers for the first T20I
WPL 2026 Auction: DC Make Big Gains By Buying Back Charani, Add Henry And Rana
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Delhi Capitals (DC) made significant gains at the WPL 2026 mega auction by buying back left-arm spinner N Sree Charani while adding West Indies all-rounder Chinelle Henry and Indias off-spin all-rounder Sneh Rana in their squad on Thursday. After using the RTM card on Deepti Sharma and Sophie Ecclestone, UP Warriorz used it again to get Kiran Navgire back, while adding Phoebe Litchfield and Harleen Deol. Gujarat Giants, meanwhile, used one RTM card to retain Bharti Fulmali, while Royal Challengers Bengaluru added Georgia Voll, Nadine de Klerk and Radha Yadav. While S Meghana and Tazmin Brits found no takers, India batter Bharti Fulmali, who previously turned out for GG, was retained by UPW via RTM card after MI pushed her price to Rs 70 lakh. Soon after, UPW secured Australian opener Phoebe Litchfield for Rs 1.2 crore by outbidding RCB. RCB, though, managed to get Georgia Voll at Rs 60 lakh after UPW opted out of exercising their RTM, with the right-hander likely to partner Smriti Mandhana at the top of the batting order. UPW then reclaimed hard-hitting India batter Kiran Navgire by matching RCBs bid of Rs 60 lakh to bring back the batter who had featured for them previously. The all-rounders set began with Australias Grace Harris going unsold, but there was considerable interest for Chinelle, the big-hitting West Indies all-rounder who featured briefly for UPW last season as a mid-season replacement. RCB and DC pushed her price from a base of Rs 30 lakh to Rs 1.2 crore, before the latter sealed the deal for her at Rs 1.3 crore after UPW opted not to exercise their RTM card. For Charani, a former DC player, the franchise was in a spirited contest with UPW DC also reclaimed another former player after a spirited contest with UP Warriorz. Starting at Rs 30 lakh, the bid escalated past 75 lakh before UPW briefly re-entered at 90 lakh. But DC responded decisively by sealing Charanis singing at Rs 1.3 crore. The all-rounders set began with Australias Grace Harris going unsold, but there was considerable interest for Chinelle, the big-hitting West Indies all-rounder who featured briefly for UPW last season as a mid-season replacement. RCB and DC pushed her price from a base of Rs 30 lakh to Rs 1.2 crore, before the latter sealed the deal for her at Rs 1.3 crore after UPW opted not to exercise their RTM card. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Radha, Indias left-arm spin bowling all-rounder, was picked up by RCB for Rs 65 lakh after GG opened the bidding at her base price of 30 lakh. UPW, meanwhile, secured Harleen Deol for Rs 50 lakh after GG declined to use their RTM card. Article Source: IANS
UP Warriorz buy Deepti Sharma for INR 3.2 crore; Healy unsold in first round
Sophie Devine was the first player sold at the WPL mega auction in Delhi on Thursday
Commonwealth Sport General Assembly: As Ahmedabad has been formally ratified as the host of the Centenary Commonwealth Games in 2030, Indian tennis player Zeel Desai shared her excitement, saying this is really a proud moment not just for Gujarat but the entire nation. Delegates of the 74 Commonwealth member nations and territories ratified Indias bid at the Commonwealth Sport General Assembly in Glasgow on Wednesday. It will mark the return of the multisports event in the country after 20 years. India last hosted the CWG in 2010 when it was held in the national capital. India presented a compelling vision for the 2030 Games, centred in the Gujarat city of Ahmedabad, which will build on foundations laid by Glasgow 2026, enabling India to celebrate the centenary in style. I am very proud that the Commonwealth Games 2030 are going to be held in Ahmedabad. This is not just a proud moment for Ahmedabad or for Gujarat, but for the entire country. I began my tennis journey in this city, so it feels especially meaningful to me, Zeel told IANS. I am confident that this will inspire many young athletes. The infrastructure being developed, along with the new stadiums that will be built for the Games, is excellent and will further elevate sports in our country. For our Indian athletes, competing against international players who come here will be a wonderful opportunity to learn, grow, and excel, she added. I am confident that this will inspire many young athletes. The infrastructure being developed, along with the new stadiums that will be built for the Games, is excellent and will further elevate sports in our country. Also Read: Live Cricket Score In addition to confirming the hosts for 2030, Commonwealth Sport also confirmed that 15 to 17 sports will feature at Ahmedabad 2030. Article Source: IANS
2026 WPL Auction: UPW Buy Back Deepti, Ecclestone Via RTM; Healy Goes Unsold
Renuka Singh Thakur: UP Warriorz were expected to be busy in the marquee set of 2026 Womens Premier League (WPL) mega auction, and they lived up to the billing by buying back India all-rounder Deepti Sharma and England spinner Sophie Ecclestone via RTM card. But UPW also sprung a surprise by securing multiple World Cups-winning Australia captain Meg Lanning. Menwhile, Mumbai Indians bought back New Zealands leg-spin all-rounder Amelia Kerr, while Gujarat Giants also shelled out big money to buy New Zealand all-rounder Sophie Devine and India pacer Renuka Singh Thakur. In a surprise outcome, Australia skipper Alyssa Healy went unsold at the auction, though theres a hope that she could be back in the accelerated round. The auction began with Alyssas name being called out for a base price of Rs 50 lakh, but found no takers. For Sophie, who missed the 2025 season due to a mental health break following New Zealands T20 World Cup win, GG opened the bidding at Rs 50 lakh, sparking a tussle with her former team Royal Challengers Bengaluru that quickly pushed the price past Rs 90 lakh. Delhi Capitals entered late at Rs 1.1 crore, but GG and RCB kept raising the stakes, with the former eventually outlasting all challengers to secure Sophies services for Rs 2 crore. Deepti, the Player of the Tournament in the recent ODI World Cup win who also captained UPW in Alyssas absence last season, drew immediate interest when Delhi Capitals opened the bidding at Rs 50 lakh and pushed it up to Rs 3.2 crore, but UPW exercised their Right to Match card to reclaim the all-rounder. Deepti also became the second-most expensive player in WPLs history Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) captain Smriti Madhana, who was bought for a whopping Rs. 3.40 crore by RCB during the first WPL auction in 2023. Amelia, part of two title-winning MI squads, was at the centre of a fierce bidding war between the franchise and UPW. Her price surged past Rs 90 lakh and then to 1.7 crore, before it zoomed to Rs 3 crore and was reclaimed by MI. Renuka, a member of Indias ODI World Cup-winning team, went to GG for Rs 60 lakh after a brief tussle with UPW. The evenings spotlight, however, was on Sophie, the gun left-arm spinner, as RCB and DC sparred before UPW exercised their RTM card at INR 85 lakh to reclaim her. DC then engaged in a fierce bidding war with UPW for their former captain Meg, who had led them to three finals. Her price surged past Rs 1.9 crore, before UPW sealed the deal and potentially their new captain. Renuka, a member of Indias ODI World Cup-winning team, went to GG for Rs 60 lakh after a brief tussle with UPW. The evenings spotlight, however, was on Sophie, the gun left-arm spinner, as RCB and DC sparred before UPW exercised their RTM card at INR 85 lakh to reclaim her. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The contest left open the prospect of a Mandhana-Wolvaardt opening pair for RCB, should they hold firm, but DC sealed the deal for Rs 1.1 crore and that meant Laura could open with Shafali Verma in the season. Article Source: IANS
WPL 2026 to run from January 9 to February 5 in Navi Mumbai, Vadodara
The DY Patil Stadium and the Kotambi Stadium will be the two venues
WPL 2026 To Take Place From Jan 9 To Feb 5 In Navi Mumbai And Vadodara
WPL Committee Chairman Jayesh George: Navi Mumbai and Vadodara are the venues for the 2026 Womens Premier League, to be held from January 9 to February 5. The tournament will open at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai, while the final is scheduled to be held at Kotambi Stadium in Vadodara. The announcement was made by WPL Committee Chairman Jayesh George before the competitions first-ever mega auction began in New Delhi on Thursday. IANS understands that the WPL Committee had a meeting at the auction venue around noon to finalise the dates and venues, with the full schedule expected to come out soon. As per the dates announced by George, the fourth WPL final will be held two days before the 2026 Mens T20 World Cup begins in India and Sri Lanka. IANS understands that the rationale behind keeping the second half of WPL 2026 in Vadodara is also due to the Kotambi stadium being set to host the mens ODI series opener between India and New Zealand on January 11. Vadodara was one of the four hosts for WPL in 2025 and now sees getting the entire second half as well as the knockout stages, including the all-important title clash. The tournament will also mark the return of womens cricket in the WPL for the first time after India won the 2025 Womens ODI World Cup on November 2. For now, the focus of all five teams two-time champions Mumbai Indians, 2024 winners Royal Challengers Bengaluru, three-time runners-up Delhi Capitals, UP Warriorz and Gujarat Giants will be to make a trophy-winning squad for the 2026 season. Vadodara was one of the four hosts for WPL in 2025 and now sees getting the entire second half as well as the knockout stages, including the all-important title clash. The tournament will also mark the return of womens cricket in the WPL for the first time after India won the 2025 Womens ODI World Cup on November 2. Also Read: Live Cricket Score New UPW head coach Abhishek Nayar and mentor Lisa Sthalekar are present, while Pravin Tambe and Michael Klinger are representing GG and RCB has newly appointed assistant coach Anya Shrubsole on the table alongside head coach Malolan Rangarajan. Article Source: IANS
Notts open Championship defence at Somerset
County Championship 2026 will be played in three blocks of matches starting in April, June and August
WPL 2026 Auction: Anjum, Veda Feel UP Warriorz Will Go For Laura Wolvaardt
ODI World Cup: Former India captain Anjum Chopra feels that UP Warriorz will go for South African captain Laura Wolvaardt in the Womens Premier League (WPL) 2026 Auction on Thursday. UP Warriorz, who are rebuilding their squad after retaining only Shweta Sehrawat, have the biggest purse of Rs 14.5 crore to spend in the auction. With Laura riding high on the ODI World Cup form and guiding her side to a runners-up finish, her name will likely start a bidding war in the auction hall. UP Warriorz are clearly rebuilding their team completely. They will be searching for a new captain and strong players. Laura Wolvaardt could be their target, she was the highest run-scorer in the Women's ODI World Cup and her batting would strengthen their line-up. She might even become their captain while adding quality to their batting unit, Anjum said on JioHotstar. JioStar expert Veda Krishnamurthy praised Laura Wolvaardt's leadership and batting skills. Laura Wolvaardt performed brilliantly in the Women's ODI World Cup, leading South Africa to the final and showed great captaincy skills. She's the kind of opener who guarantees 350-plus runs every season. With UP Warriorz needing a captain while other teams have their leadership sorted, Laura would be perfect to bring stability to their team with both, her batting and leadership qualities. Anjum added that New Zealand all-rounder Amelia Kerr will be highly sought after in this auction. Amelia Kerr will be highly sought after in this auction. With two WPL titles from the Mumbai Indians and her dual skills as a batting and bowling all-rounder, she brings great value. Her consistent performances with both bat and ball make her a strong contender to be among the most expensive players in WPL's auction. Anjum added that New Zealand all-rounder Amelia Kerr will be highly sought after in this auction. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Teams are watching Pratika Rawal's ankle fracture recovery closely. If she's 80-85% ready by tournament start, she'll attract interest. While her T20 numbers aren't flashy, she provides solid stability at the top, allowing stroke-makers to play freely. RCB specifically need an established opener after trying multiple partners for Smriti Mandhana. Their successful Indian opening combination could work well in WPL too. She might not command a high price but will bring great value to any team that signs her. Article Source: IANS
Pant Pens Apology After 0-2 Whitewash: 'Sorry We Couldnt Live Up To Expectations'
Barsapara Cricket Stadium: Indias wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant admitted that the team 'did not play good cricket' in the recently concluded two-game Test series against South Africa and apologised to the fans for not being able to live up to their expectations. India suffered a 0-2 whitewash at home as the Proteas dominated the proceedings throughout the two Tests in Kolkata and Guwahati. After the reigning World Test champions, South Africa, clinched their first Test win in India since 2010 in the Kolkata Test, the visitors sealed their historic series victory by handing India its heaviest defeat with a 408-run win in the second Test. This was the Proteas' second Test series win in India after their 2-0 sweep in February-March 2000 under Hansie Cronje. Since their defeat on Wednesday, the head coach and players have been under intense scrutiny. Amid ongoing criticism from fans and pundits, Pant posted a picture on Instagram and apologised to everyone who had placed their hopes in the teams victory and assured them that they will work hard to make a strong comeback as a team and as individuals. There is no shying away from the fact that we didnt play good enough cricket over the last two weeks. As a team and as individuals, we always want to perform at the highest level and bring smiles to billions of Indians. Sorry we couldnt live up to expectations this time, but sport teaches you to learn, adapt and grow - both as a team and as individuals. Representing India is the greatest honour of our lives. We know what this team is capable of, and we will work hard, regroup, refocus and reset to come back stronger and better as a team & individuals. Thank you for your unwavering support and love! Jai Hind, Pant wrote. There is no shying away from the fact that we didnt play good enough cricket over the last two weeks. As a team and as individuals, we always want to perform at the highest level and bring smiles to billions of Indians. Sorry we couldnt live up to expectations this time, but sport teaches you to learn, adapt and grow - both as a team and as individuals. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Taking the blame and expressing regret over losing the series, Pant, speaking during the presentation ceremony after the game in Guwahatis Barsapara Cricket Stadium, said, Its a little disappointing. As a team we need to get better. Credit to the opposition they dominated the series. We needed to be clear with our mindset. Cricket demands capitalising as a team, and we didnt do that. That cost us the whole series. Article Source: IANS
Ashes: Pat Cummins Set To Play Brisbane Test
The West Australian: Pat Cummins is set to be included in Australias squad for the second Ashes Test, providing another significant boost following their victory in Perth. Reports earlier indicated that it has not yet been confirmed if the team's captain will play in the game at the Gabba starting December 4. However, The West Australian confirmed that Cummins will be named in the squad that will be announced on Friday. No further players are anticipated to join Australias squad, leaving the teams top-order uncertain following Usman Khawajas back problems and Travis Heads impressive fourth-innings century in the first Test. Initially, there were concerns that Cummins might miss the entire blockbuster series due to a bone stress flare-up in his back revealed in September. However, he has since been able to complete bowling sessions at full intensity, including high-intensity sessions at Perth before and after the Ashes opener. On Thursday, Brendan Dodgett expressed uncertainty about his participation in the second Test, with Cummins recovering well and on schedule. However, he stated that he was mentally prepared to rise up to the occasion if needed in case Cummins was to miss out. Initially, there were concerns that Cummins might miss the entire blockbuster series due to a bone stress flare-up in his back revealed in September. However, he has since been able to complete bowling sessions at full intensity, including high-intensity sessions at Perth before and after the Ashes opener. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Asked if he had heard anything from the selectors regarding the second Test, Doggett added, We are soaking in the win and letting everyone get back to their families. We arrive in Brisbane on Sunday, so I assume conversations will start there about what the line-up looks like for the second Test. Article Source: IANS
Devine upstages Capsey as Scorchers seal victory
The NZ allrounder followed figures of 2 for 16 with 46 off 24 balls
