Cricket

Pakistan players unlikely to play Abu Dhabi T10

The PCB has asked the league to pay $10,000 per NOC it issues for the tournament starting November 7

Vidarbha Crush Madhya Pradesh By Innings And 20 Runs In Ranji Trophy

Harsh Dubey and Parth Rekhade snared five wickets each as Vidarbha secured an innings and 20 runs win over Madhya Pradesh in their Ranji Trophy Group A match in Nagpur on Wednesday.

AFG vs ZIM 1st Test Prediction, Match Preview And Playing XIs

AFG vs ZIM1st Test, Cricket Tips: Afghanistan thumped Zimbabwe in the tri-series, and they hammered them with a 3-0 whitewash in the T20I series. These sides will be taking on each other in the two-match Test series. Brian Bennett is all set to lead Zimbabwe in the series. This will be his captaincy debut for his country across formats. Veteran Greame Cremer is back, and his experience will help Zimbabwe against the spin threat of Afghanistan. Zimbabwe have been really struggling to play spin, and Afghanistan have dominated them. Though Rashid Khan is not part of the test squad but Afghanistan have some quality spinners with them. Rahmat Shah will lead Afghanistan. This year, they have played the most number of test matches, and they are gaining experience in this format. AFG vs ZIM: Match Details Date : November 5-9, 2026 (Thursday-Monday) Time : 10:30 AM IST Venue : Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah AFG vs ZIM: Live Streaming Details In India, fans can access the game through the FanCode mobile app or website. AFG vs ZIM: Head-to-Head in Tests Total Matches : 5 Afghanistan : 2 Zimbabwe : 2 Drawn : 1 AFG vs ZIM: Ground Pitch Report The wicket in Sharjah has always been slow and low. This wicket has a lot to offer for the spinners. As the game goes on, the wicket will break down, making it slow. The bounce can be uneven, and it will become difficult to bat. AFG vs ZIM: Possible XIs Afghanistan : Sediq Atal, Abdul Malik, Shahidullah, Hashmatullah Shahidi, Rahmat Shah (c), Ikram Alikhil (wk), Ismal Alam, Qais Ahmed, Zia-ur-Rehman, Yamin Ahmadzai, Md. Saleem Zimbabwe : Innocent Kaia, Ben Curran, Brendan Taylor, Brian Bennett , Craig Ervine, Antum Naqvi, Wessly Madhevere, Brad Evans, Graeme Cremer, Kundai Matigimu, Blessing Muzarabani AFG vs ZIM: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Shahidullah Kamal and Brian Bennett will be two batters who can play well in slow conditions. Probable Best Bowler Zia-ur-Rehman and Blessing Muzarabani are two strike bowlers who can take wickets at different phases. Today Match Prediction : Zimbabwe have a weaker batting unit in these conditions. Hence, we predict Afghanistan to win the first test. AFG vs ZIM Match 1st Test, Today Match AFG vs ZIM, AFG vs ZIM Prediction, AFG vs ZIM Predicted XIs, Injury Update for Afghanistan vs Zimbabwe Match Also Read: Special Cricket Stories 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.

Leicestershire relegation confirmed as pitch penalty upheld

Cricket Discipline Panel dismisses appeal against 19-point deduction, meaning Essex retain Division One status

Not Many Holes In His Game: New Zealand Star In Awe Of Virat Kohli's Masterclass

Star batter Virat Kohli on Wednesday set up India's five-wicket win over New Zealand in the first ODI with an imperious 74.

Jemimah Rodrigues Hits Fifty In Second Game Post Return From Injury As Mumbai Beat Delhi

T20 Trophy Elite: Right-handed batter Jemimah Rodrigues struck her first half-century since returning from a hamstring injury, as Mumbai beat Delhi by seven wickets in the Senior Womens T20 Trophy Elite league stage match on Wednesday. Chasing 152 after Delhi were restricted to 151/7, Mumbai got home comfortably with eight balls to spare. Mumbai lost opener Humairaa Kaazi for four, but Jemimah and Sanika Chalke then put on 124 runs for the second wicket to take the game away from Delhi. Jemimah hit 58 runs off 41 balls, laced with seven fours and a six, at a strike rate of 141. She returned to action this week after recovering from the injury, and Wednesdays half-century suggested she has lost little of her touch. In her comeback game on November 2, Jemimah made an unbeaten 26 off 19 balls, with three boundaries, as Mumbai beat Uttar Pradesh by 29 runs in a nine-overs-a-side contest. The much-needed game time will give Jemimah a timely lift as she looks to press her case for a place in Indias squad for the upcoming all-format tour of South Africa, set to happen in December. Sanika, picked up by Mumbai Indians (MI) ahead of the upcoming Womens Premier League (WPL) season, remained unbeaten on 85 off 57 balls, hitting eight fours and two sixes at a strike rate of 149. Though Jemimah fell to Bharti Rawal before the game finished, Sanika stayed till the end to complete the chase. For Delhi, all-rounder Nazma Khan, picked by Delhi Capitals for 2027 WPL, provided the main impetus. Batting at number five, she struck 43 off 27 balls at a strike rate of 159 to take her team past 150, though it proved well short on a good day for Mumbais batters. Sanika, picked up by Mumbai Indians (MI) ahead of the upcoming Womens Premier League (WPL) season, remained unbeaten on 85 off 57 balls, hitting eight fours and two sixes at a strike rate of 149. Though Jemimah fell to Bharti Rawal before the game finished, Sanika stayed till the end to complete the chase. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Ranji Trophy: Ahlawat stands tall for Services against his former team

The right-hander takes the attack to the Delhi bowlers to notch up a wonderful century and rescue his side from a spot of bother; Jayant Goyat claims his first five-wicket haul

Twin strikes sting Hyderabad before stumps after Chhattisgarh takes first-innings lead

Considered quitting cricket two years ago: Goyat

Ranji Trophy: We bowled in the right areas, says Chintan Gaja

Ranji Trophy: Speedsters Nagwaswalla, Gaja put Gujarat firmly in command against Kerala

Their lethal spell triggers a lower order batting collapse forcing Kerala to follow-on; after losing Kunnummal cheaply in the visitors second essay Abhishek and Baby steady the ship with smart batting

Ranji Trophy 2026-27: Karnataka polishes off Assam in no time, claims bonus point

After declaring on 577 for six, the visitor bundles out the host for 128; Shreyas (four for 34) and Shikhar (three for 33) the heroes on day three

14 Wickets! Dubey Spins Vidarbha to Ranji Group A Summit

Vidarbha secured an innings and 20 runs victory over Madhya Pradesh in their Ranji Trophy Group A match, with Harsh Dubey and Parth Rekhade taking five wickets each. This win propelled Vidarbha to the top of the Group A points table. Other matches saw Goa win with a bonus point, while Uttar Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir were set to gain points on first-innings leads.

Oman secure spot at 2027 men's World Cup Qualifiers

Namibia, one of the hosts of the 2027 ODI World Cup, will continue their qualification journey at the World Cup Qualifier Playoff

Oman Qualifies For 2027 Mens ODI WC Qualifier On Net Run Rate Despite Defeat To UAE

Cricket World Cup Qualifier: Oman sealed a place in the ICC Mens Cricket World Cup Qualifier 2027, despite losing to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) by 42 runs in the final match of the World Cup League 2 at the ICC Academy Ground on Wednesday. The defeat was Omans seventh loss in a row, and it left them level with Namibia on 33 points. But their superior net run rate of -0.224 was enough for them to clinch the fourth and final direct qualifying spot from the league. Sent in to bat first, the UAE posted 226/8 in their 50 overs. Captain Rahul Chopra and Adeeb Usmani made 47 each, while Basil Hameed chipped in with 43. Left-arm spinner Shakeel Ahmed was the pick of the Oman bowlers with figures of 3-42. Omans chase stumbled early when Muhammad Rohid struck twice to leave them at 28/3. Mujibur Ali fought back with 65, but Oman finished well short on 184/9 in their allotted 50 overs. Despite that setback, Oman joined League 2 champions the USA, Scotland and the Netherlands in the 10-team global qualifying tournament. Namibia, Canada, Nepal and the UAE, the other four League 2 sides, now face the Qualifier Playoff for another shot. They will be joined there by Jersey and Kuwait from Challenge League A, and by Italy and Uganda from Challenge League B. Four spots in the global qualifier are on offer from the eight-team playoff. The global qualifier will decide who will grab the last four places at the 2027 Mens ODI World Cup. The winner goes straight into the group stage of the main event, while the second, third and fourth-placed teams move into the newly created super series. The 2027 Mens ODI World Cup will be co-hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia from October 2 to November 21. Fourteen teams will play 57 matches across 12 venues. It also marks the tournaments return to Africa for the first time since 2003 and Namibia hosting matches of a senior tournament for the first time. The global qualifier will decide who will grab the last four places at the 2027 Mens ODI World Cup. The winner goes straight into the group stage of the main event, while the second, third and fourth-placed teams move into the newly created super series. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Ranji Trophy: Shami's Four-Fer Fails to Lift Bengal Vs Maharashtra

Bengal's unbeaten Ranji Trophy run is under threat after a challenging third day against Maharashtra. Despite Mohammed Shami's efforts, a crucial last-wicket stand by Tanay Sanghvi and Pradeep Dadhe gave Maharashtra a significant lead. Bengal's top order collapsed in their second innings, leaving them struggling with a slender one-run lead and six wickets remaining, setting up a tense final day.

Harshitha Samarawickrama To Lead Sri Lanka In ICC Womens Emerging Nations Trophy

Karwan Sports Club Cricket Ground: Left-handed batter Harshitha Samarawickrama will captain Sri Lanka at the ICC Womens Emerging Nations Trophy in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), with regular skipper Chamari Athapaththu not included in the 14-member squad announced on Wednesday. The squad includes Vishmi Gunarathne and Nilakshika Silva, who return after being left out of the side for the Asian Games. Fast bowler Malki Madara has also been picked after missing both the Asia Cup and the Asian Games. The most notable inclusion, however, is Sathya Sandeepani, who has been recalled to the T20 set-up six years after her only T20I appearance came against India in February 2020. Chamari is currently turning out for Hobart Hurricanes in the Womens Big Bash League (WBBL) in Australia. The tournament has been expanded to 10 teams from five in the previous edition. Sri Lanka are one of five Full Members in the field, alongside Ireland, Bangladesh, Pakistan and Zimbabwe. The other five teams are hosts UAE, defending champions Thailand, the Netherlands, Papua New Guinea (PNG) and Scotland. Sri Lanka have been drawn in Group A with Ireland, Scotland, Papua New Guinea and the UAE. Group B comprises Pakistan, Bangladesh, Thailand, the Netherlands and Zimbabwe. All matches will be held in Ajman, UAE, at the Karwan Sports Club Cricket Ground and the Seven Districts Sports Club. Sri Lanka begin their campaign against Ireland on November 12. They will then take on Scotland the next day, before playing against Papua New Guinea on November 15 and the UAE on November 16. Top three sides from each group will advance to the Super Six stage, whose matches will be played on November 20, 22 and 23. Each qualifier will face the three teams that come through from the other group. The top two teams at the end of that stage will meet in the final, to be played on November 25 at the Karwan Sports Club Cricket Ground. Sri Lanka squad: Harshitha Samarawickrama (captain), Sanjana Kavindi, Imesha Dulani, Hasini Perera, Vishmi Gunarathne, Kaveesha Dilhari, Nilakshika Silva, Kaushini Nuthyangana, Sathya Sandeepani, Rashmika Sewwandi, Sugandika Kumari, Chamudi Praboda, Malki Madara, and Chethana Vimukthi. Sri Lankas group fixtures schedule: November 12: against Ireland, Karwan Sports Club Cricket Ground November 13: against Scotland, Karwan Sports Club Cricket Ground November 15: against Papua New Guinea, Seven Districts Sports Club November 13: against Scotland, Karwan Sports Club Cricket Ground Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Samarawickrama to lead Sri Lanka in Emerging Nations Trophy, Dilhari her deputy

Sri Lanka have rested Chamari Athapaththu, and there are only three players older than 30 in the 14-member squad

WTA 250 Chennai Open: Robin Montgomery resilient and courageous in equal measure

Injured Marufa to miss Emerging Nations Trophy for Bangladesh

This will be Nahida Akter's first tournament as T20I captain since she took over from Nigar Sultana last month

WPL 2027 to begin on January 14 with RCB-MI clash; Vadodara, Mumbai to host matches

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 4 (IANS) Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will open the fifth season of the Womens Premier League (WPL) against two-time winners Mumbai Indians (MI) in Vadodara on January 14. The tournament will run from January 14 to February 7, with Vadodaras BCA Stadium and Mumbais Brabourne Stadium, home of the Cricket Club of India (CCI), sharing the 22 matches equally. Both venues are familiar WPL hosting territories. The Brabourne Stadium hosted matches in the 2023 and 2025 seasons, including the finals of both editions won by MI. The Baroda Cricket Association (BCA) Stadium in Vadodara hosted WPL games in 2025 and 2026, and staged last seasons final won by RCB. The two grounds will also serve as venues for the inaugural ICC Womens Champions Trophy, to be played from February 14 to 28, a week after the WPL final is held. Vadodara will stage the first 11 games, from January 14 to 24, before the competition moves to Mumbai. After a rest day on January 25, the Brabourne Stadium will host the remaining nine league matches from January 26 to February 3, along with both playoff fixtures. Each of the five teams will play the others twice in the league stage. The team that finishes on top of the table will go straight into the final. The second- and third-placed sides will meet in the Eliminator on February 5 for the other spot in the summit clash on February 7. A rest day sits before each of the two playoff matches. All matches, including the playoffs, will start at 7:30 pm IST, with no afternoon games on the calendar. The opening weekend has a full slate. Gujarat Giants take on UP Warriorz on January 15, while RCB, the two-time winners, face four-time runners-up Delhi Capitals a day later, and MI meet UP Warriorz on January 17. The RCB-MI rematch will happen on January 26, when the two sides open the Mumbai leg in a repeat of the season opener. Gujarat Giants are listed as the home side in four of their Vadodara matches, while Mumbai Indians are the designated hosts for four league fixtures at the Brabourne Stadium. The league stage ends on February 3 with Delhi Capitals taking on UP Warriorz. WPL 2027 full schedule: Vadodara (BCA Stadium) January 14: Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Mumbai Indians January 15: Gujarat Giants vs UP Warriorz January 16: Delhi Capitals vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru January 17: UP Warriorz vs Mumbai Indians January 18: Gujarat Giants vs Delhi Capitals January 19: Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs UP Warriorz January 20: Gujarat Giants vs Mumbai Indians January 21: UP Warriorz vs Delhi Capitals January 22: Gujarat Giants vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru January 23: Delhi Capitals vs Mumbai Indians January 24: UP Warriorz vs Gujarat Giants January 25: Rest day Mumbai (Brabourne Stadium, CCI) January 26: Mumbai Indians vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru January 27: Delhi Capitals vs Gujarat Giants January 28: Mumbai Indians vs UP Warriorz January 29: Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Delhi Capitals January 30: Mumbai Indians vs Gujarat Giants January 31: UP Warriorz vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru February 1: Mumbai Indians vs Delhi Capitals February 2: Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Gujarat Giants February 3: Delhi Capitals vs UP Warriorz February 4: Rest day February 5: Eliminator February 6: Rest day February 7: Final

Duffy: Late starts 'definitely a factor' in teams' inability to defend totals

The New Zealand fast bowler said that 185 was never going to be enough and said that they will come back hard at India

Right On Course For Our WTC Goal, Says Daren Sammy As West Indies Chase 2-0 Win Against Bangladesh

World Test Championship: West Indies head coach Daren Sammy believes his side is right on course to meet the target it set for the current World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. West Indies have already ensured they will finish the calendar year without losing a Test series for the first time since 1994. They now head into the second and final Test in Sylhet, starting Thursday, looking to complete a 2-0 sweep. It is the first time since 1994 (that) we have finished a calendar year without losing a series. In 1994, (Shivnarine) Chanderpaul was making his debut. So (its the) little things like that that the team has already achieved, because we cant lose the series. It is progress -- what we have been through and the challenges we face and what we have to do despite all those challenges, Sammy told reporters in a press conference on Wednesday. Sammy further said a clean sweep would be a fitting way to end their 2025-27 WTC campaign, particularly against a Bangladesh side coached by Phil Simmons, his predecessor in the West Indies head coach job. Its going to be a big achievement. As you know, Bangladesh before this (series) was fourth in the Test championship. They have played some really good cricket, and (are) well coached by Phil (Simmons). The last time we beat them here 2-0 (in 2021), I think Phil was the (West Indies) coach. So to come here and do that would be a massive end for us in the Test championship. Sammy also looked back on a difficult start to his tenure as Test coach. We all know when I took over, we looked at the first three or four series - going to (play) Australia at home with a new team, then India in India, (and) then New Zealand away in New Zealand. That was a pretty tough baptism for my Test coaching career. But these are things we spoke about in the dressing room, and we were speaking about by the time we get to Sri Lanka, Pakistan and Bangladesh; with the stability that the team could have, these are where we would make inroads. We are right on course to finish with the goal we had in mind in this Test cycle. Much of that stability, Sammy said, has come from settling the batting order. Obviously, in the first year (of my coaching), we were finding the right balance in terms of players and roles allotted to them. I think we have settled in quite nicely. Brandon and John at the top of the innings have probably been our best opening pair in a long time. (Kavem) Hodge started at No. 6, (before) moving into No. 4. Justin (Greaves) and Roston (Chase) moved from Nos. 5 to 7. A lot has happened in order to bring the team to a settled position. Openers Brandon King and John Campbell laid the platform for the 170-run chase in Mirpur with a stand of 112. That made them the first West Indies opening pair since Gordon Greenidge and Desmond Haynes to share more than one century stand in the fourth innings of a Test. The work, especially the batters put in, and the preparation, that we have put in over the years led us to coming to Bangladesh, where we know spin has been something thats bothered us in the past. To put on a display, especially chasing a tricky total like that in the second innings, the way the guys played, we just want them to continue. Consistency in performance is the way that brings results for you in any format of the game, added Sammy. Sammy, however, expects no let-up from the hosts. We wanted to finish 2-0. We have put ourselves in a position to do that. But knowing Bangladesh and knowing Phil the way he operates, hes going to come out for blood, and we dont expect it to be anything easy. But the preparation we have put in, we know we could counteract and come out victorious. West Indies will wait until the morning of the match to decide their playing eleven. In the first Test, they had planned to play veteran pacer Kemar Roach, but switched to left-arm spinner Joshua Bishop, who made his debut, after finding that grass was shaved off the pitch. I have had a look at the wicket yesterday, but I dont think I would make a fair assessment until the day of the game. In Dhaka, the morning of the Test match, when we saw the pitch, the final preparation, thats when we had to finalise our team. So well use that same strategy. West Indies will wait until the morning of the match to decide their playing eleven. In the first Test, they had planned to play veteran pacer Kemar Roach, but switched to left-arm spinner Joshua Bishop, who made his debut, after finding that grass was shaved off the pitch. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Duffy reveals what makes Kohli so hard to bowl to

New Zealand pacer Jacob Duffy expressed his admiration for Virat Kohli's batting prowess after Kohli's unbeaten 74 guided India to a five-wicket victory in the first ODI. Duffy, who has played with Kohli in the IPL, highlighted the Indian batter's ability to handle bounce and hit across the ground, stating there were o holes in his game. He also commented on the challenging conditions for defending targets and praised the Indian bowlers.

From 0-82 to 2-22: Anshul Kamboj's Stunning Auckland Redemption

Indian pacer Anshul Kamboj discusses his journey of improvement after a challenging ODI debut. He bounced back with a strong performance against New Zealand, taking two wickets for 22 runs. Kamboj emphasizes focusing on process over results and ignoring social media criticism, highlighting his commitment to refining his bowling skills.

Anshul Kamboj: One bad match doesn't affect me

Exactly a month after an expensive ODI debut, the India fast bowler took 2 for 22 in his second match in Auckland

Sunil Gavaskar Makes Bold 'Red Ball' Cricket Claim After Arshdeep Singh's ODI Masterclass

Arshdeep Singh was in tremendous form in the first India vs New Zealand ODI in Auckland on Wednesday. The left-arm pacer took four wickets for 70 runs in 10 overs

Ranji Trophy: Karnataka, Vidarbha Register Dominant Wins; Delhi, Odisha Trail Behind At Stumps On Day 3

Abhimanyu Cricket Academy Ground: Karnataka, Vidarbha and Goa registered commanding victories by an innings, while Uttarakhand opened their account with a comprehensive 10-wicket win as the third day of the ongoing third round of the Ranji Trophy 2026 concluded on Wednesday. Karnataka produced a clinical all-round performance to defeat Assam by an innings and 314 runs in their Elite Group B encounter in Guwahati, wrapping up the contest with more than a day to spare. The eight-time champions collected seven points, including a bonus point, to move to the top of the group standings with 16 points. Resuming their first innings at 496/5, Karnataka continued their dominance as they declared at 577/6, establishing a massive lead of 442 runs. Assams batting lineup had little answer to Karnatakas spin attack, with Shreyas Gopal claiming four wickets for 39 runs and Shikhar Shetty returning figures of 3/28 to bowl the hosts out for 128 in 40.2 overs. Earlier, Manvanth Kumars unbeaten century had provided the foundation for Karnatakas imposing first-innings total. Uttarakhand also registered their first victory of the season, defeating Haryana by 10 wickets in their Elite Group D clash at the Abhimanyu Cricket Academy Ground in Dehradun. After posting 305 in their first innings, Uttarakhand bowled Haryana out for 153, with Mayank Mishra picking up six wickets for 57 runs. Haryanas Nishant Sindhu had earlier claimed 5/89 for the visitors. Forced to follow on, Haryana managed 159 in their second innings, with Jagadeesha Suchith taking four wickets for 50 runs. The hosts were left with a target of just nine runs, which they chased down in 1.2 overs without losing a wicket. Dega Nischals 153 off 387 deliveries was the standout contribution in Uttarakhands first innings. Vidarbha completed an innings-and-20-run victory over Madhya Pradesh after producing a dominant bowling performance across both innings. Having dismissed Madhya Pradesh for 209 in their first innings, Vidarbha posted 334/9 before declaring their innings. The visitors struggled once again in their second innings and were dismissed for just 105. Harsh Dubey was the standout performer, taking nine wickets in the first innings, while Dubey and Parth Rekhade claimed five wickets apiece in the second to seal the victory. Goa joined the list of teams registering innings victories after defeating Bihar by an innings and 177 runs. Goa built their commanding position with a first-innings total of 397 before bowling Bihar out for 107. Following on, Bihar failed to put up a stronger fight and were dismissed for 113 in their second innings, handing Goa a comprehensive victory. Meanwhile, Mumbai strengthened their position against Railways, with a 141-run opening partnership between Angkrish Raghuvanshi and Divyaansh Saxena taking their second-innings lead beyond 300 runs. Raghuvanshi scored 79 before falling, while Tushar Deshpande, Suryansh Shedge and Musheer Khan also departed cheaply as Mumbai lost a cluster of wickets during the final half-hour of play. Off-spinner Tanush Kotian had earlier delivered an impressive performance with figures of 7/45 for Mumbai, leaving Railways with a difficult task on the final day. In the encounter between Delhi and Services, the latter held a 202-run lead at the close of play on Day 3. Delhi made an encouraging start with the ball, picking up two wickets in the first five overs, but Mohit Ahlawats impressive 142-run knock helped Services recover and strengthen their position. With only one day remaining, the contest appears to be heading towards a draw, with Delhi facing an uphill task to force a result. Bengal and Maharashtra also witnessed an eventful day, with Mohammed Shamis four-wicket haul helping Bengal dismiss Maharashtra for 218. Bengal, however, lost four wickets in their second innings and reached 76/4 at stumps, holding a slender one-run lead. Play was curtailed due to bad light. In the Gujarat-Kerala fixture, Gujarat enforced the follow-on after dismissing Kerala for 279 in their first innings. Kerala ended the day at 31/1 in their second innings, still facing a considerable deficit. Odisha remained in a difficult position against Jharkhand after the latter declared their first innings at 433/8. Having recovered from an early collapse, Jharkhand built a substantial total and left Odisha with a deficit of 410 runs. Odisha reached 23/0 at stumps and will need a significant effort on the final day to avoid defeat. Hyderabad also face a challenging task against Chhattisgarh, needing another 246 runs to win after being set a target of 259. Hyderabad were 13/2 at stumps, having lost both their opening batters for ducks in the first over. Punjab continued to hold the upper hand against Andhra, who reached 240/2 at the end of the day while chasing Punjabs first-innings total of 529/9 declared. Andhra still trail by 352 runs, with Shaik Rasheed and Karan Shinde leading their efforts to reduce the deficit. Hyderabad also face a challenging task against Chhattisgarh, needing another 246 runs to win after being set a target of 259. Hyderabad were 13/2 at stumps, having lost both their opening batters for ducks in the first over. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

RCB to play MI in season opener as WPL announces schedule for 2027 season; check full details

Womens Premier League has announced its schedule for the 2027 season. Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru will host Mumbai Indians in the opening game on January 14 in Vadodara. The final will be held on...

Ranji Trophy 2026-27: Consistency trumps chasing wickets, says Mumbai off-spinner Kotian

Kotian and Suryansh Shedge will miss the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy due to the Rising Stars Asia Cup

Kotian's 7/45 puts Mumbai on course for big Ranji win

Tanush Kotian's impressive seven-wicket haul set up Mumbai's strong position against Railways in their Ranji Trophy Elite Group D clash. Following Kotian's bowling masterclass, half-centuries from Angkrish Raghuvanshi and Divyaansh Saxena further extended Mumbai's lead to 311 runs by the end of Day Three, despite a late wobble.

Ranji Trophy 2026-27: Harsh and Rekhade spin Vidarbha to an innings victory over Madhya Pradesh

Women's T20 World Cup 2026 Sets Viewership Record, Generates $93.8 Million Economic Impact In UK

ICC Chairman Jay Shah: The ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 set new benchmarks for women's cricket, generating a record 471 million global viewing hours and an estimated economic impact of $93.8 million in the United Kingdom, according to post-tournament reports released by the International Cricket Council (ICC). The 2026 edition, which featured 33 matches, became the most-watched ICC Women's T20 World Cup in history, recording a 156 per cent increase in viewing hours compared to the 184 million generated by the 2024 tournament. India and Pakistan's group-stage clash in Birmingham emerged as the most-watched match in the tournament's history, attracting more than 77 million viewing hours globally. The ICC said current indications suggest it was also the most-watched women's T20 match ever. Three other fixtures from the tournament surpassed the previous viewership benchmark, with Australia vs India recording 54 million viewing hours, South Africa vs India 51 million and Bangladesh vs India 42 million. The four matches, including India vs Pakistan, became the highest-viewed fixtures in the history of the competition. In the host country, the tournament became the most-watched ICC Women's T20 World Cup on Sky Sports, generating 18.2 million viewing hours. England matches attracted an average audience of 381,000, a 69 per cent increase on the previous edition, while the final between England and Australia registered a peak audience of 678,000. An independent economic impact assessment conducted by Nielsen estimated that the tournament generated $93.8 million in total impact for the UK, including direct and secondary economic impact and media value for host cities. More than 13,000 full-time and part-time roles were also generated or supported during the event. The tournament also made a significant social impact, with Nielsen research highlighting a shift in perceptions about women's participation in cricket. Among respondents who engaged with the event, 81 per cent of 500 parents of girls aged between seven and 15 said it helped challenge the perception that cricket is a sport only for men. The same view was shared by 73 per cent of 500 women aged between 16 and 30. Furthermore, 81 per cent of parents surveyed said the tournament had increased their daughters' interest in joining a cricket club or academy, while 80 per cent believed it would have a positive impact on women's sport in England. ICC Chairman Jay Shah said the tournament had demonstrated the potential of women's cricket when provided with the right platform and investment. The ICC Womens T20 World Cup 2026 has made a powerful statement about the future of the womens game. This tournament delivered record crowds, viewership, reach and engagement, and demonstrated what is possible when womens cricket is given the platform, investment and belief it deserves. I am immensely proud of the players, whose performances inspired fans around the world, as well as the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), our Members, broadcasters, commercial partners, ICC staff and all the volunteers who played such crucial roles in delivering an event of this scale and quality. As a result of everyones hard work, this tournaments legacy is assured, and it will be remembered not only for its records, but for its impact on and off the pitch. This is not the end point of our ambition; it is the platform for what comes next. The ICC will continue to invest in womens cricket, expand opportunity, strengthen pathways and take the game to more fans, more communities and more markets around the world. The success of this tournament gives us even greater confidence in the future we are building, Shah said. ICC CEO Sanjog Gupta said the tournament had raised the bar in terms of global reach, fan engagement and the wider impact of the sport. Our ambition for each ICC event, particularly womens events, is to raise the bar for our sport; to elevate the stage for the worlds best players, reach new fans the world over, drive deep multi-modal engagement and amplify the purpose and belonging that the game delivers. The scale of the response, as highlighted in this report, shows how that ambition translated into reality. Nearly 250,000 in-stadium attendees, almost 500 million total global viewing hours and more than four billion digital video views are powerful measures of the global attention the ICC Womens T20 World Cup 2026 commanded, but the story - and this events real-world impact - extends well beyond any single metric, transcending socio-cultural and economic boundaries. We deliberately widened access to the event across platforms, cultures, languages, interest segments and markets, combining world-class broadcast coverage with free streaming, digital-first distribution, creator-led storytelling, pop culture plug-ins and new ways for fans to interact with the game. ICC events must continue to serve as platforms that deepen and widen fandom, elevate our athletes and create cultural, commercial and social impact around the game, Gupta added. The tournament also recorded unprecedented attendance, with a cumulative 245,815 spectators turning up across 25 matchdays, surpassing the previous ICC Women's T20 World Cup record by more than 100,000. The final at Lord's drew 28,887 spectators, setting a new record for the largest crowd at a women's cricket match in the UK. Digital engagement also surged, with content across the ICC's digital platforms generating 3.2 billion views, a near 250 per cent increase on the previous edition. The tournament also recorded unprecedented attendance, with a cumulative 245,815 spectators turning up across 25 matchdays, surpassing the previous ICC Women's T20 World Cup record by more than 100,000. The final at Lord's drew 28,887 spectators, setting a new record for the largest crowd at a women's cricket match in the UK. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Ranji Trophy: Rain holds centrestage as Bengal scrambles to save the match against Maharashtra

The host is precariously placed in its second innings at 76 for four after conceding a first innings lead of 75 to the visitor thanks to Dadhe and Sanghavi s 10th wicket stand of 60; the duo later returns to make inroads in Bengals second essay

How Gill's Batting Confidence Fuelling His Growth as Captain

According to Ajinkya Rahane, Shubman Gill's growing confidence, tactical maturity and improved player management are strengthening his leadership as India prepare for crucial New Zealand and Australia assignments ahead of the 2027 World Cup.

No-ball drama hands Renegades last-ball win against Hurricanes

The players readied for a Super Over finish, but replays showed wicketkeeper Lee had taken the ball just in front of the stumps, leading to a no-ball and a Renegades victory

Blair Tickner Equals ODI Record For Most Sixes By A No.11 Batter, Joins Mohammad Amir And Naseem Shah

New Zealand fast bowler Blair Tickner delivered a remarkable cameo against India in the first ODI at Eden Park in Auckland on Wednesday.

Mitchell Starc surpasses Marco Jansen, becomes number-one ranked ICC Test bowler

Mitchell Starc has once again become ICCs number-one ranked Test bowler after an impressive performance in Australia's third Test against South Africa in Cape Town. He surpassed Marco Jansen for the spot, who had occupied the No. 1 position for just a week.

That Run Out By Rohit Bhai Changed The Momentum: Gill Lauds Team's All-round Effort In Auckland Win

Shubman Gill: India captain Shubman Gill credited his sides disciplined bowling and sharp fielding, particularly Rohit Sharmas run-out of Daryl Mitchell, for setting up their five-wicket victory over New Zealand in the rain-affected first ODI at Eden Park on Wednesday. Gill said the dismissal proved a turning point after the hosts had threatened to recover through a partnership between Mitchell and Glenn Phillips. India bowled New Zealand out for 185 before chasing down a revised target of 143 in 22.4 overs to take a 1-0 lead in the five-match series. Arshdeep Singh led the attack with four wickets, while Gurnoor Brar claimed three and Anshul Kamboj picked up two. Reflecting on the teams performance, Gill highlighted how Indias fielding complemented the bowling effort, with Rohits sharp work helping break New Zealands resistance. I think we were very good with the bowling. And I think our fielding was also really good. That run out by Rohit bhai, I think changed the momentum of the game. I think it was really that partnership (Mitchell & Phillips), we saw that even in India - those two batted really well in India. And overall I think a very good team performance for us, Gill said after the win. The skipper was particularly pleased with the contributions of Kamboj and Brar, who made the most of the conditions to keep New Zealand under pressure. Kamboj returned figures of 2-22 from his 10 overs, while Brar finished with 3-44. I mean Anshul is the kind of a bowler, I think hes tailor-made for these kind of conditions, always nippy, trying to seam the ball. And good with the old ball. We felt when theres not much happening from the wicket, he (Brar) can create that extra bounce and with his pace and the way both of them bowled tonight was really magnificent to watch, he added. Indias chase was interrupted twice by rain, forcing a reduction to 32 overs and a revised target. Gill acknowledged that the changing conditions posed a challenge for batters who had already settled at the crease, but said Kohlis innings helped India navigate the situation. Its never easy when you are set and then it rains and the wicket got a little bit quick, it got a little bit more nippy after the rain. So the target reduced. So we were just trying to play our normal cricket. And I think the way Virat bhai batted, it made things a lot more easy for us, the skipper said. Kohli scored 74 off 51 deliveries, while Gill contributed 37 as the pair put India firmly in control of the chase. With the second ODI scheduled in Wellington, Gill said India were not looking to make major changes after the opening victory, stressing the importance of repeating the same standards. Kohli scored 74 off 51 deliveries, while Gill contributed 37 as the pair put India firmly in control of the chase. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

BAN vs WI 2nd Test Prediction, Match Preview And Playing XIs

BAN vs WI 2nd Test, Cricket Tips: West Indies hammered Bangladesh in the first test by 8 wickets to take a unassailable 1-0 lead. Bangladesh prepared a rank-turner, and it backfired on them. Jomel Warrican bagged nine wickets in the game, while Roston Chase bagged a fifer in the second innings. Shadman Islam scored a century in the first innings, but it went in vain. West Indies have a great chance to record a 2-0 series whitewash. The second test will start at 9 AM IST on Thursday at Sylhet International Cricket Stadium. Mushfiqur Rahim will replace Mominul Haque in the second game. BAN vs WI: Match Details Date : November 5-9, 2026 (Thursday-Monday) Time : 9:30 AM IST Venue : Sylhet International Cricket Stadium, Sylhet BAN vs WI: Live Streaming Details Indian fans can watch the live action of the game on the FanCode mobile app or website. BAN vs WI: Head-to-Head in Tests Total Matches: 23 Bangladesh : 5 West Indies: 16 Drawn : 2 BAN vs WI: Ground Pitch Report The wicket in Sylhet is expected to be slow and good for spin. The wicket is expected to slow down with time, and spinners are expected to have a major role. Both teams will look to bat first because early on the batting conditions will be better on the first two days. BAN vs WI: Possible XIs Bangladesh : Shadman Islam, Tanzid Hasan, Najmul Hossain Shanto (c), Mushfiqur Rahim, Towhid Hridoy, Litton Das (wk), Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Nayeem Hasan, Hasan Mahmud, Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam West Indies: John Campbell, Brandon King, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Kavem Hodge, Justin Greaves, Amir Jangoo (wk), Roston Chase (c), Kemar Roach/Joshua Bishop, Shamar Joseph, Jomel Warrican, Jayden Seales BAN vs WI: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Shadnam Islam and John Campbell scored the most runs for their teams and they will be the ones to watch out for. Probable Best Bowler Jomel Warrican and Nayeem Hasan will have a big role on this wicket in Sylhet. They did well in the first game also. Today Match Prediction : Bangladesh have struggled with the bat, and West Indies have a better batting unit than them. Hence, we predict West Indies to win the second test. BAN vs WI Match 2nd Test, Today Match BAN vs WI, BAN vs WI Prediction, BAN vs WI Predicted XIs, Injury Update for Bangladesh vs West Indies Match Also Read: Special Cricket Stories 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.

1st Time In ODI History: Virat Kohli's 74 vs New Zealand Was Special, But The Record He Set Is Even Bigger

Virat Kohli played his first international match in over a month but showed no signs of rustiness. In fact, he was at his gritty best as India secured a victory over New Zealand in a rain-affected first ODI in Auckland

Shubman Gill Praises Rohit Sharma's Effort That Changed Momentum vs New Zealand In 1st ODI

India captain Shubman Gill credited his side's disciplined bowling and sharp fielding, particularly Rohit Sharma's run-out of Daryl Mitchell, for setting up their five-wicket victory over New Zealand.

Was Pretty Down In The Dumps At Times, Says Lance Morris On Long Injury Break

Western Australia Premier Cricket T20: There were days during his long road back to playing cricket again when Lance Morris would turn up to training, run in to bowl and feel nothing like the tearaway who once had Australian cricket talking. Now, with Australia preparing to host England in the ODI series, Morris has admitted that the injury lay-off took a mental toll on him and that, more than 18 months after his last top-level game, he is finally ready to play again. Morris, 28, missed the entire 2025/26 season after pars stabilisation surgery for a recurring lumbar bone-stress injury, the same operation Cameron Green had gone through earlier. Going under the knife, he said, was the only real alternative to a year of doing nothing at all. I got to a point where essentially I had to have 12 months off cricket. It was either 12 months of pure rest and hoping that it heals naturally or address it with this surgical intervention and hopefully put it behind me for good. It was certainly tough at times. More recently, there were a few sessions there where Id rock up to training and feel pretty average when I was bowling. (I) was (feeling) pretty down in the dumps. I feel really good at the moment, and I think Ive pushed through a bit of a threshold and got back to that game intensity that we were looking for, Morris was quoted as saying by Cricinfo on Wednesday. Even the comeback did not run smoothly. After regaining fitness over the off-season, Morris was primed to play at the start of the domestic summer. But a side strain sidelined him for almost two more months. The time on the sidelines cost him more than matches. The management of his back problem became a source of friction between Morris, Cricket Australia and WA, and earlier this year he lost the CA contract he had held since 2023. Last Sunday, Morris finally bowled in a match again, taking 2-14 in four overs for Scarborough in a Western Australia Premier Cricket T20 game. Im really excited. I think its been the longest pre-season Ive ever had, so Im feeling really fit. It was good to get a game in for the local cricket club over the weekend and let a few go, so it was awesome, he said. A tougher test comes on Saturday, when WA host England in a one-day warm-up at the WACA to open the visitors' white-ball tour of Australia. In his absence, others have caught the selectors' eye. Jhye Richardson has made a blistering start to the Sheffield Shield season after overcoming his injury woes. Mahli Beardman, 21, has earned a place in Australias white-ball squads for the England series. The timing could still work in Morriss favour. Australias frontline attack is ageing and having spent so long on the sidelines, Morris is in no hurry. I think its easy to sort of cast your eyes that far ahead and have goals to play for Australia. But I think, at the moment, its just one step in front of the other and getting through a couple of games unscathed. Then see where we get to. Morris signed off by being full of praise for Beardman, who made his international debut in a T20I in Pakistan earlier this year. Hes obviously got a great reputation already, and he deserves it. Hes a star in the making, and I think hes got all the attributes to not only be an incredible white-ball cricketer, but also multi-format. I think its easy to sort of cast your eyes that far ahead and have goals to play for Australia. But I think, at the moment, its just one step in front of the other and getting through a couple of games unscathed. Then see where we get to. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Virat Kohli breaks Sachin Tendulkar's world record in first ODI vs New Zealand in Auckland

Virat Kohli broke Sachin Tendulkar's long-standing record for most ODI runs during chases. He reached the milestone during India's five-wicket victory over New Zealand in the opening match of the series in Auckland on Wednesday. The former India captain took his tally to 8,741 runs while batting second, moving ahead of Tendulkar's previous mark of 8,720.

Nee Po Mone Dinesha: How Sachin Tendulkar And Mohanlal Broke The Internet Over Sanju Samson

When the 'God of Cricket', Sachin Tendulkar, hosted a Reddit Ask Me Anything session, fans flooded the platform with questions.

Tendulkar Dethroned! Kohli Becomes Ultimate ODI Chase Master

Virat Kohli surpassed Sachin Tendulkar to become ODI cricket's highest run-scorer in chases with 8,741 runs, while equalling Ricky Ponting and breaching 13,000 runs at number three.

Sammy: West Indies 'on course' to achieve their WTC goal

West Indies head coach notes his team's progress as this will be the first time since 1994 that they will not have lost a Test series

Anshul Kamboj Is Tailor-Made For Such Conditions: Shubman Gill

India captain Shubman Gill was delighted to see Anshul Kamboj's excellent effort in the first ODI against New Zealand here on Wednesday, saying the pacer is ailor-made for the Antipodean conditions.

Starc reclaims No 1 spot, Iyer climbs in T20I rankings

Mitchell Starc has returned to the top of the ICC Test bowling rankings after his stellar performance against South Africa. India's Shreyas Iyer also made significant gains, moving to seventh among T20I batters following India's series win over New Zealand. The latest ICC rankings update reflects shifts across Test, ODI, and T20I formats, with several players making notable progress.

Virat Kohli Surpasses Sachin Tendulkar For Mega World Record During India vs New Zealand 1st ODI, Also Equals Ricky Ponting

Virat Kohli not only scored 74 off 51 balls but also set a new world record. The Indian icon surpassed Sachin Tendulkar for the most runs in ODI run chases on Wednesday

Consistent Length And Line Was Key: Kamboj Credits basics For Match-winning Spell In 1st ODI

Pacer Anshul Kamboj: Pacer Anshul Kamboj attributed his impressive figures of 2-22 in 10 overs to sticking to consistent lines and lengths rather than overthinking the conditions, after helping India bowl out New Zealand for 185 in the first ODI and winning the player of the match award at Eden Park on Wednesday. Kamboj played a crucial role in Indias bowling effort, conceding just 22 runs in his 10 overs, including two maidens. He dismissed Mitchell Santner and Nathan Smith as New Zealand struggled to build momentum against Indias pace attack. The Haryana pacer said keeping his approach simple and focusing on the right areas, irrespective of how the pitch behaved, was central to his performance. The key was just consistent length and line, not thinking about how the wicket is behaving, just the basic plan, bowling on right lines and right areas, Kamboj said after the game while receiving the POTM honours. He also revealed that the wobble-seam delivery was particularly effective on the surface, prompting him to use it repeatedly to trouble the New Zealand batters. The wobble seam ball was working very well, so I was using that again and again, he added. Kamboj said his preparations for the series had revolved around getting his lengths and lines right, while also studying the strengths and weaknesses of opposition batters to develop an effective plan against them. Just working on lengths and good lines, and just looking at the strengths and weaknesses of the batsmen and just working on that, he said. Despite bowling in conditions different from those back home, Kamboj said he did not feel the need to make significant adjustments to his length, pointing out that he was able to generate sufficient bounce off the surface. It doesnt matter, because I also get a good amount of bounce off the wicket as well. So its like its only about the length which I am bowling, just focusing on that, he said. Asked about assessing conditions at different venues, the pacer emphasised the importance of reading the surface and identifying the deliveries and lengths most likely to be effective on a given day. You just have to look at the wicket and see what is happening on the wicket, what is the best ball to bowl, what is the right length to bowl, just focus on that, he added. Asked about assessing conditions at different venues, the pacer emphasised the importance of reading the surface and identifying the deliveries and lengths most likely to be effective on a given day. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Why Captain Gill Sees Kamboj as India's Ideal Weapon in New Zealand

India captain Shubman Gill lauded pacer Anshul Kamboj's performance in the first ODI against New Zealand, calling him 'tailor-made' for the conditions. Kamboj's 2-wicket haul, along with strong performances from Arshdeep Singh and Gurnoor Brar, helped India bowl out New Zealand for 185, securing a win in the five-match series opener. Gill also highlighted key fielding efforts and the team's overall strong performance despite rain interruptions.

Brian Bennett To Lead Zimbabwe In Test Series Against Afghanistan

Zimbabwe Cricket has named Zimbabwe's squad for the two-match Test series against Afghanistan in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

We Didnt Adapt As Quickly As We Could: Santner Reflects On New Zealands Batting Struggles Against India

Mitchell Santner: New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner admitted his side failed to adjust quickly enough to the pace and bounce at Eden Park after being bowled out for 185 in the first ODI against India, saying the visitors made better use of the conditions to take a 1-0 lead in the five-match series. New Zealands batters struggled to cope with the extra bounce, with Indias pace attack repeatedly finding ways to trouble them. Arshdeep Singh claimed four wickets, while Gurnoor Brar picked up three and Anshul Kamboj returned figures of 2-22 to restrict the hosts to a below-par total. Reflecting on the batting performance, Santner pointed to the surface and Indias disciplined bowling as key factors in New Zealands collapse. Yeah, I think the pitch probably bounced and, you know, it was probably a little bit faster than we kind of expected at Eden Park. I think we probably didnt adapt as quickly as we could. And with some good bowling from India as well, Santner said after the game. The Kiwi skipper felt Indias batters were more effective in dealing with the bounce, particularly when facing the short ball. He also noted how the conditions changed after rain interruptions during the chase, with the ball skidding on more comfortably. When you try to fight the bounce at Eden Park, it can be quite hard. I think the way they kind of used it a little bit more, and Shreyas was trying to go more fine with the shorter balls. And yeah, obviously bounced a lot, and after the rain it kind of skidded on nicely. So yeah, a few short balls out there, he added. Despite the defeat, Santner was pleased with the way New Zealands bowlers responded after India made a strong start in the chase of the small total. The visitors were reduced to 143/5, with Jacob Duffy taking three wickets, but Virat Kohlis 74 off 51 balls had put India firmly in control. He credited his fast bowlers for refusing to give up after the early onslaught and finding some positives towards the end of the contest, which New Zealand can carry into the second ODI in Wellington. Yeah, very happy. It was easy for us to kind of roll over there after the start they got. So, credit to the fast bowlers to keep backing it up. So yeah, I think we found some good stuff at the end of the game there, and we can kind of go on to Wellington, he said. He credited his fast bowlers for refusing to give up after the early onslaught and finding some positives towards the end of the contest, which New Zealand can carry into the second ODI in Wellington. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

'Taijul Form Is A Matter Of Concern,' Says Simmons Ahead Of West Indies Test

West Indies Test: Bangladesh head coach Phil Simmons has expressed concern over Taijul Islam's recent dip in form, calling it hugely concerning ahead of the second and final Test against West Indies, which begins in Sylhet on Thursday. Bangladesh will be looking to level the series after suffering an eight-wicket defeat in the opening Test. Taijul, the country's leading wicket-taker in Test cricket, will be a key player for the hosts as they look to make a comeback. However, the left-arm spinner has struggled to make an impact in recent matches, managing just five wickets across his last four Tests. Simmons admitted that Taijul's current form was a major concern for the team, given the important role he plays in Bangladesh's bowling attack. It's hugely concerning because he's one of the major spinners we have in the team. When you're discussing Taijul's form with him, it is concerning for him too, as well as for the team, because he is a major weapon that we have in this team, Simmons said ahead of the second Test as quoted by Cricinfo. There were also concerns about Taijul's physical condition after he bowled 48 overs in the fourth innings against Afghanistan in Abu Dhabi. Simmons, however, indicated that the spinner was not facing any major physical difficulties, although he left the medical assessment to the team's support staff. That you'll have to ask the medical staff. I know he had a little bit of trouble in the UAE, but since then, he's thrown well; he's bowling full bore; he bowled full practice yesterday, so it doesn't seem to be affecting him, he said. The Bangladesh coach also spoke about his team's batting struggles, admitting that they have failed to maintain the standards they showed during the Test in Darwin. Since Darwin, we haven't batted well. We showed what we are capable of if the determination to bat is there, but since that [Darwin Test], we have not batted well in the formats we have played, Simmons said. The Bangladesh coach also spoke about his team's batting struggles, admitting that they have failed to maintain the standards they showed during the Test in Darwin. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Blair Tickner equals world record with charismatic batting show in first ODI vs India in Auckland

New Zealand ace pacer Blair Tickner produced a blistering show in the opening ODI against India at Eden Park in Auckland. The 33-year-old smacked 34 runs off 23 balls in the middle and during which he hit four maximums. Three of which were struck against Arshdeep Singh. Meanwhile, with four sixes to his name in an innings, Tickner joined Mohammad Amir and Naseem Shah for the most sixes scored by a No. 11 batter in an ODI innings.

India's seamers and Kohli 74 power them to 1-0 lead in rain-hit match

India's seamers were relentless with their interrogation of the New Zealand batters and were supported by excellent fielding and captaincy

Afghanistan, Zimbabwe face-off with WTC spot on the horizon

Antum Naqvi is set to make his Test debut, which would mean a rejig of the playing XI for Zimbabwe, who will be led by Brian Bennett in Richard Ngarava's absence

Success Has Made Australia Complacent At All Levels, Says Hayden After Test Series Loss In SA

World Test Championship: Former Australia opener Matthew Hayden has said that years of success have bred complacency in the countrys Test set-up, adding that the series defeat in South Africa is a telling point for the team and the countrys cricket administration. Australia surrendered their world number one Test ranking after a collapse in Cape Town sealed their 2-1 series loss in South Africa. The success, I feel, of this current group has probably made us a little complacent at all levels. It doesnt matter where you look at it. Administration, the so-called architects of the team - the coaches and the significant staff. The architects, I feel at the moment, are point thereover the discussion. Theyre not the only discussion because the architect can never build a house - the builders do, so youve got to look at the builders as well, Hayden said on SEN Radio. He then turned towards Australia's record in the World Test Championship, which they won in 2023. Since the World Test Championship began back in 2019, Australia has won one title, theyve reached three completed finals, and finished in the top three in every completed qualifying cycle. Now, you could say that thats because the competition isnt that strong, and you could maybe mount that argument. Of the eight full member cycle Test nations, generally speaking, there are four that are elite. Australia now are 69.23 per cent in this cycle and theyre currently third. Theyre back to the field. Before they went to South Africa, they were way out in front. Theyre 80 odd and more per cent. But now theyre coming back into the field where theyve got some bloody good teams, including New Zealand, who won the first cycle. Hayden further warned that the schedule ahead offered little breathing space for the Australian Test team. Australia next host New Zealand in a four-Test series starting in early December, before coming to India for a five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy series. Then weve got the Border-Gavaskar Trophy thats coming up, and we all know how hard it is as cricketers to compete over in that country, and then weve got the Ashes at the back of it. This is really a telling point for the Australian cricket team and the overall administration to understand how were going to future proof cricket in this great country. Hayden also questioned the decision of skipper Pat Cummins to field first in Cape Town, and came out strongly in support of veteran off-spinner Nathan Lyon, whose place has come under scrutiny after a difficult series. I dont believe that that was the correct decision, especially when youve got a world-class spinner whos been bounced around the place. Everyone should be put on notice when it comes to the Australian cricket team. We should be that damn good that everyone has got a notice certificate in the mail to say, perform or banish. In Lyons case the one thing that Ive been really disappointed about from the architects point of view is that they just keep bouncing him around. The blokes got 550 wickets for Gods sake! He is the best (Aussie) off-spinner of all time, and he is sitting out in conditions which I still believe have a place for an off-spin bowler. Especially on a fifth-day wicket, which he didnt bowl on in Cape Town. So, it was a crazy decision in my opinion. We should be that damn good that everyone has got a notice certificate in the mail to say, perform or banish. In Lyons case the one thing that Ive been really disappointed about from the architects point of view is that they just keep bouncing him around. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

1st ODI: Young Pace Unit, Peerless Virat Kohli Script Impressive Win For India Against New Zealand

India earned an easy five-wicket win in the rain-curtailed first ODI against New Zealand in Auckland on Wednesday.

1st ODI: Kohlis 74 Powers India To 5-wicket Win Over NZ

Virat Kohli: Veteran batter Virat Kohli struck a commanding 74 off 51 balls after Arshdeep Singh, Gurnoor Brar and Anshul Kamboj's scintillating bowling show as India beat New Zealand by five wickets in a rain-affected first ODI here at Eden Park on Wednesday. Indias inexperienced pace attack produced an impressive collective performance to bowl New Zealand out for 185 in 40.2 overs. In response, the visitors chased down a revised target of 143 in 22.4 overs to take a 1-0 lead in the five-match series. Indias chase suffered an early setback when Rohit Sharma was dismissed for a six-ball duck by Kyle Jamieson in the opening over. However, Kohli joined skipper Shubman Gill to take control of the innings, with the pair building a match-defining partnership. The chase was interrupted twice by rain, with the contest eventually reduced to 32 overs and Indias target revised to 143 under the DLS method. Kohli brought up his half-century after the second resumption, reaching the milestone off 35 deliveries with a powerful pull through mid-wicket in the 16th over. The experienced batter continued to dominate New Zealands short-ball approach, striking 13 fours and a six. His innings also saw him move past Sachin Tendulkar to become the highest run-scorer in ODI run chases, taking his tally to 8,741 runs, compared to Tendulkars 8,720. Gill provided steady support with 37 off 56 balls as the duo added a century partnership, their sixth 100-plus stand in 27 ODI innings together. New Zealand finally broke through when Nathan Smith had Gill caught behind for 37 in the 19th over. Kohli, however, continued to keep India comfortably ahead of the required rate before Jacob Duffy dismissed him for 74, caught by Tim Seifert at deep backward square leg. Duffy struck again in the same over, removing Axar Patel for a duck, while Shreyas Iyer fell for 15 to give the hosts a late glimmer of hope. But the result was never seriously in doubt. KL Rahul and Naman Dhir ensured there were no further complications, with the latter pulling Nathan Smith through mid-wicket for four to seal the win. Earlier, Arshdeep Singh claimed four wickets, while Gurnoor Brar took three and Anshul Kamboj picked up two as India restricted New Zealand to 185. The hosts had no answers to the riddles and questions that Indias pace attack threw at them, as they were held to a paltry total to make things a tad bit easier for the visitors. But the result was never seriously in doubt. KL Rahul and Naman Dhir ensured there were no further complications, with the latter pulling Nathan Smith through mid-wicket for four to seal the win. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

'Is he promoting Ramayana?': Virat Kohli's 'bow and arrow' celebration after superman catch goes viral; crowd sings happy birthday for him

Virat Kohli stole the spotlight during the India vs New Zealand first ODI with a spectacular one-handed catch to dismiss Nathan Smith, followed by his trademark 'bow and arrow' celebration. Fans also surprised him by singing 'Happy Birthday' at the stadium ahead of his birthday on November 5.

Virat Kohli smacks 74, secures win after India's pace attack demolishes New Zealand in first ODI

India defeated New Zealand by five wickets in the first of the five-match ODI series at Eden Park in Auckland. The rain affected the play heavily in the second innings, but that didnt spoil Indias dominant show with both ball and bat, as they secured a comfortable win in the end. It was once again Virat Kohli who stole the show with the bat and based on his 74-run knock, India got the job done with 56 balls remaining, despite DLS method coming to the equation.

Starc displaces Jansen to reclaim top spot in ICC rankings for Test bowlers

South Africa offspinner Simon Harmer claimed ten wickets in Cape Town and went up to seventh among bowlers

Had Manifested Id Be The One To Get Sooryavanshis Wicket, Says UAE Spinner Uddish Suri

India T20I: With the second ball Uddish Suri bowled in last years Under-19 Asia Cup game against India at the ICC Academy in Dubai, the UAE left-arm wrist-spinner felt he got out teenaged batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi but was reduced to seeing the left-hander being dropped off his bowling. What followed was carnage - Sooryavanshi tore into the UAE attack for 171 off 95 balls, laced with 14 sixes, as India piled up 433/6. Six bowlers felt the full force of it. Suri, somehow, did not come under attack. He bowled 23 balls to Sooryavanshi and gave away exactly 23 runs - one four and one six among them. In his penultimate over, he even castled the dangerous Sooryavanshi, whos now in the senior India T20I setup. Suri finished with 2-77 from his ten overs, but containing that version of Sooryavanshi, which is something far more experienced bowlers have failed to do, is still talked about in the cricketing circles. For Suri, it was no accident, as that had been in the making for a long time. Before the tournament had started like about a month and a half before, I had always been planning ahead. I believe in manifestation a lot. So, I think I had manifested that I would be the one getting this wicket. I think from one or two months, I was working with our coaches like Naveed sir, Zahoor sir, Nael sir, Manpreet sir, our analyst at that time. I think I was just going through his videos as well and like to see where his strong areas were, where I could maybe bowl to him to not get hit, try to get saved and try to take his wicket. I think that had helped me a lot, especially a day or two before I was sitting with our head coach Naveed sir. I was discussing with him how I can bowl to him and how I can make him struggle to actually score against me. I think it worked at the end of the day and I was really happy to get his wicket, obviously. It was a great feeling at the end of the day, Uddish recalled in an exclusive interaction with IANS, facilitated by Sony Sports Network, ahead of this years Under-19 Asia Cup, which begins in Oman on Thursday. Uddish will need that kind of homework again, and probably more of it. The UAE are placed alongside India, Pakistan and Nepal in this years U19 Asia Cup. After Sooryavanshi, the spotlight in Indian mens age-group cricket has been on Anvay Dravid and Aaryavir Sehwag, sons of Rahul Dravid and Virender Sehwag. Both featured in India U19s recent series win against Australia U19 and struck quickfire hundreds of their own in the Vinoo Mankad Trophy. Theres also captain Lakshay Raichandani and Yashbardhan Singh Chauhan to plan against as well when the India-UAE clash happens on November 10. That appetite for a contest and come out on top goes back a long way for Uddish, who started playing at four, under his first coaches Shehzad and Prashant, and the gateway was Cubs cricket, a school under-7 tournament his elder brother Tanish had first played at five and a half years. As soon as he gradually started playing more and more cricket, seeing him, I started to gain a passion towards the sport. I used to just wear his gears whenever I was free and I think the parents did see the interest in me. Theyre like, Ok, maybe we can push him through academies and see where it goes. Then eventually at the age of four, I got selected for the same tournament my brother played as well for the school. From there on, it was just training sessions regularly, and then I got fully immersed into the sport and today here I am, he said. The route to left-arm wrist-spin was something of a family negotiation. My school coach Prashant sir wanted to make me a wicketkeeper. But my brother is a wicketkeeper as well. My parents were like, Sir, just imagine both my sons, both wicketkeepers. The competition will eventually be between both of them. Whereas my parents personally wanted me to be a fast bowler or a spinner. So they started with pace bowling. Then my coach is like, 'Okay, if not a keeper, dont make him a fast bowler because of the weather conditions in the UAE especially, work on his spin bowling and I think thats where my spin journey started. Then just caught on with the left arm chinaman. Now he looks up to two of the finest current exponents of the craft. For T20s, it is Noor Ahmad, whose use of pace and variations he admires. For the 50-over game, it is Kuldeep Yadav. Coming to ODIs, I would look more at Kuldeep Yadav where his trajectory of the ball is very different compared to Noor Ahmed. Thats where I would look up to Kuldeep Yadav in a 50-over game because I think that would probably create double things in the batsmans mind where I can use that as well to make the batsman think whether I should go charge on this ball or not. That one millisecond, if he gets late on the shot, I think I can just pick up a wicket. So I mean, depending on the format, I would look up to the bowler. Kuldeep Yadav and Noor Ahmed are my top picks in left-arm chinaman for sure. Tanish, the wicketkeeper and Uddishs elder brother, has played 13 ODIs and 14 T20Is for the UAE, and remains his younger brothers sounding board. The two speak almost every day, and before a training session here, Tanish, who has toured Oman before, briefed Uddish on the conditions he will encounter. Those chats also cover what went wrong on the day, and life beyond cricket, but the nets are where Tanish is most hands-on with Uddish. Even when we train together, when I bowl to him or when he gives me throwdowns, he always shows me, you can work on this part of your skill or you can just try bowling your googly a bit more quicker. So that can help me increase my pace, get more drift, and turn, which obviously helps me in my career as well. So I think my brother has a very big impact on my career as well. Behind both brothers are their steadfast parents. I am grateful to have such parents. Since a very young age, they have been very supportive for both me and Tanish. I think without them, I wouldnt be or Tanish wouldnt be where he is or where I am at this point of stage where we are right now. Im very grateful to God for having parents like them. They have sacrificed their social life, social events, and parties - all that just for us. They used to run behind just our matches, no matter how the weather was, especially in UAE, the conditions are very harsh during the summer. It touches about 50 degrees, but at under 16, and under 19, my mom and my dad always used to sit near the boundary ropes, no matter how hot it was. From the boundary, they would call out advice on avoiding the wrong shot, and their presence alone lifted the Suri brothers' confidence. Uddishs own schedule has hardly been lighter than theirs. With a family business to think of, Suri took science at school and is now studying mechanical engineering at a university. His days split between five to six hours of study and the same hours are dedicated to training. In university, things have eased slightly, though he expects the course to get tougher. Competitive sports, he points out, comes with an expiry date. Obviously your qualification and academics are going to help you reach somewhere even better even after your sports are done. So I think balancing my academics is key here and I think Im doing it very well and I will continue to do so. After the Asia Cup, Suri heads straight into the Abu Dhabi T10 league. First, though, come India, Nepal and Pakistan, and Suri, whos coming off playing Emirates D50 and D10 competitions, is unfazed. Honestly, we are looking for a good challenge. I mean, the entire team is from that. Were in a good group which consists of India and Pakistan, known to be one of the best Asian countries in youth cricket. But I think we have been training again from the past three and a half months in the UAE. Its very important as a rising star, as youth cricket is a way you can set up your platform and get into the national side. Perform here, score and do well for the country. It is very exciting for me as well as my teammates to have an opportunity to play in this Asia Cup and do well for the team and the country. He thanked the Emirates Cricket Board for its facilities and head coach Naveed Ahmed, assistant coach Zahoor Khan and team manager Nael Tanveer for the groundwork. They have put in their immense efforts and hard work. Again, the conditions in the UAE are very harsh. It was very hot, but we have trained immensely just for this. As a unit, we are very strong as well. Hopefully we can surprise everyone by beating both of the teams - at least one of them and qualifying for the semis and reaching somewhere. Last year, he manifested one big wicket of Sooryavanshi and made it happen. This time, he wants to manifest a surprise. Whether this years vision comes true, time will tell soon. As a unit, we are very strong as well. Hopefully we can surprise everyone by beating both of the teams - at least one of them and qualifying for the semis and reaching somewhere. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Manifested That I Would Get Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's Wicket: UAE Spinner Uddish Suri

Uddish Suri bowled 23 balls to Sooryavanshi and gave away exactly 23 runs - one four and one six among them. In his penultimate over, he even castled the dangerous Sooryavanshi, who's now in the senior India T20I setup.

Shreyas Gopal, Shetty spin Karnataka to massive Ranji win over Assam

Karnataka secured a massive innings and 314-run victory over Assam on the third day of their Ranji Trophy Elite Group B match.

Bennett To Lead Zimbabwe In Afghanistan Tests

United Arab Emirates: Zimbabwe Cricket has named Zimbabwes squad for the two-match Test series against Afghanistan in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), with Brian Bennett set to lead the side in the absence of injured skipper Richard Ngarava. The two-match series will begin on November 5, with the second Test scheduled from November 13. Both games will take place at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium in Sharjah. The squad retains a chunk of the group that registered Zimbabwes biggest Test victory in June, when they defeated Bangladesh by an innings and 85 runs at Harare Sports Club. Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) said, Ngarava remains sidelined as he recovers from a back injury, while fellow pace bowler Tanaka Chivanga is also unavailable through injury. Bennett will have considerable experience to draw on in the batting group, with Brendan Taylor and Craig Ervine joining Innocent Kaia, Ben Curran, Tadiwanashe Marumani and Wessly Madhevere among the options. Taylor and Ervine remained in the UAE after the ODI tri-series to prepare for the red-ball assignment, while veteran leg-spinner Graeme Cremer has joined the squad for the Tests. Kundai Matigimu and Vincent Masekesa are back in the Test group, while all-rounder Antum Naqvi has also been included, having now met the ICC eligibility criteria to represent Zimbabwe. Blessing Muzarabani leads the pace options alongside Brad Evans, Newman Nyamhuri, Matigimu and the uncapped Ernest Masuku. Cremer, Masekesa and Wellington Masakadza provide the specialist spin options, while wicketkeeper-batter Tafadzwa Tsiga is also included in the squad. The two-match series will conclude Zimbabwes extensive tour of the UAE, following the recently completed ODI tri-series involving Afghanistan and Bangladesh and the T20I series against Afghanistan. Cremer, Masekesa and Wellington Masakadza provide the specialist spin options, while wicketkeeper-batter Tafadzwa Tsiga is also included in the squad. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Mustafizur Rahman Set For Long-Awaited Big Bash League Debut

Bangladesh's experienced left-arm pacer Mustafizur Rahman is set to make his debut in the Big Bash League (BBL) after signing with Melbourne Renegades as a replacement for injured Jason Behrendorff.

Antum Naqvi set for long-awaited Zimbabwe debut after eligibility clearance

Cremer also returns to the Test fold after close to nine years, with Bennett set to lead the squad in Ngarava's absence

Former India cricketer opens up on Hardik Pandya's trade rumours ahead of IPL 2027

The IPL (Indian Premier League) 2027 mini auction is looming on the horizon; ahead of the marquee event, there have been heavy rumours that star all-rounder Hardik Pandya could be traded from Mumbai Indians to...

Kohli's Bow-and-Arrow Celebration Goes Viral

'Virat is a character these days. I just love to watch him play these days.'

We've Become Complacent: Matthew Hayden's Stark Assessment Of Australian Cricket

Former Australian opener Matthew Hayden has criticised the Australian Test team's approach, suggesting that its prolonged success has led to complacency across all levels, including team management, coaching staff and players.

Australia Can't Win The Ashes: Ian Healy's Blunt Verdict On Test Team

Former Australian cricketer Ian Healy called for changes in the team, particularly in pace bowling in order to win the next Ashes series in 2027 in UK.

Sachin's Mohanlal Dialogue for Sanju Gets Fans Talking

Sachin Tendulkar delighted fans on Reddit by using a popular Malayalam movie dialogue to playfully deflect a question about his advice to Sanju Samson.

Mustafizur Rahman set for maiden BBL stint, signs for Melbourne Renegades ahead of new season

Veteran Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman is all set to play for the first time in the BBL (Big Bash League). Rahman has signed with Melbourne Renegades for the first time in his career and will...

Mitchell Starc Reclaims Top Spot In ICC Test Rankings For Bowlers, Shreyas Iyer Gains In T20Is

Starc had claimed the No.1 crown for the first time in August when he ended the reign of India pacer Jasprit Bumrah, only for Jansen to take the mantle following his six wickets in the second Test for the Proteas in Gqeberha, as per ICC.

Mitchell Starc Overtakes Marco Jansen To Become Worlds No. 1 Test Bowler

Australia fast bowler Mitchell Starc has reclaimed the top position in the ICC Mens Test Bowling Rankings from South Africa all-rounder Marco Jansen following an impressive performance in the third match of their ICC World Test Championship series in Cape Town. Australia were defeated by 176 runs to lose the series 2-1, but Starc stood out for the visiting team with hauls of six for 72 and three for 65 and displaced Jansen, who had only last week become the No. 1 bowler for the first time. Player of the Match Simon Harmers maiden 10-wicket match haul has helped him move up nine places to seventh, and the off-spinners current rating points tally of 817 is the second highest by a South Africa spinner, only behind Hugh Tayfield, who had recorded 895 in February 1957. Harmers effort has also helped him advance three slots to fifth among all-rounders, joining top-ranked Jansen and third-ranked Wiaan Mulder to make it three from South Africa in the top five. Indias Ravindra Jadeja (second) and Bangladeshs Mehidy Hasan (fourth) are the others in the list. In the latest weekly update that also considers performances in the first Test between Bangladesh and the West Indies in Dhaka, spinner Jomel Warricans nine-wicket match haul that won him the Player of the Match award after his teams eight-wicket victory, has helped him advance six places and reach 30th position. Bangladeshs Nayeem Hasan (up four places to 47th) and Shoriful Islam (up three places to 54th), and the West Indies Roston Chase (up six places to 63rd) are among the others to move up the bowling rankings. In the Test batting rankings, Mulders score of 115 in the second innings has helped him move up seven places to a career-best 17th position while Ryan Rickelton has advanced 25 places to 23rd after supporting him with a knock of 101. Marcques Ackermans scores of 95 and 62 have lifted him 129 slots to 69th while Bangladeshs Shadman Islam has progressed from 67th to 63rd. In the ICC Mens ODI Player Rankings, left-hander Fakhar Zamans match-winning 127 in the final of the Pakistan ODI Tri-Series against Sri Lanka in Lahore has helped him gain nine slots and reach 37th position while Pavan Rathnayake, who struck 77 for the losing team after having struck 118 against England in an earlier game, has made a massive 20-slot jump to 16th. Ben Ducket, who scored 167 off 132 against Sri Lanka has attained a career-best sixth position after gaining one place while Tom Bantons consistence performances see him reach the top 50 for the first time. In the ODI bowling rankings, Namibias left-arm seam bowler JJ Smit has moved up 44 places and is now joint-30th with India fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah after successive four-wicket hauls in the last two matches as their side pulled off a memorable 3-2 series win over Ireland in Windhoek. The ICC Mens T20I Player Rankings see India captain Shreyas Iyer move up two places to seventh after scoring 50 against New Zealand in Hamilton while New Zealands Glenn Phillips (up 13 places to 24th) and Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza (up 12 places to 41st) are others to make notable gains. Afghanistan player Azmatullah Omarzais knock of 116 against Zimbabwe in Sharjah that rescued his side from five for four, has lifted him 34 places to 59th. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Formerly top-ranked Jacob Duffys haul of four 23 in Auckland has helped him gain 23 places to reach 23rd position in the list of bowlers.

Virat Kohli Scripts Never-Seen-Before History, Breaches 13000-Run Mark At No. 3 In ODIs

Virat Kohli reached another big milestone in the first ODI against New Zealand, becoming the first batter to cross the 13,000-run mark in ODI cricket while batting at No. 3.

Arshdeep Singh Joins Elite Indian Pace Club With Historic Spell In New Zealand

Arshdeep Singh joined legends Javagal Srinath and Mohammed Shami to become the third Indian pacer to take a four-wicket haul in New Zealand.Arshdeep achieved this feat during the first ODI against New Zealand at Auckland, taking 4/70 in his 10 overs.

A Break Is Unavoidable: Greg Chappell's Strong Verdict On Marnus Labuschagne

Former Australian cricketer Greg Chappell said that for batter Marnus Labuschagne, the, his turnaround has to start in his head.

Arshdeep's Sweet Celebration for Samreen

Arshdeep Singh dedicated his trademark wicket celebration to his girlfriend, Punjabi actress Samreen Kaur, during the first ODI against New Zealand in Auckland, a gesture he explained as a shared dance step.

Virat Kohli grabs one-handed stunner, celebrates with Diwali gesture in first ODI vs New Zealand: WATCH

Virat Kohli's spectacular effort at second slip grabbed the headlines in the opening of the five-match ODI series against New Zealand at Eden Park in Auckland. After grabbing a one-handed stunner to dismiss Nathan Smith,...

We Were Being A Little Greedy: Arshdeep Reflects On Indias Late Struggles In 1st ODI

Arshdeep Singh: India pacer Arshdeep Singh admitted that his side became a little greedy while trying to force a breakthrough during New Zealands late fightback in the first ODI at Eden Park in Auckland on Wednesday, despite having dominated much of the hosts innings with the ball. India bowled New Zealand out for 185 in 40.2 overs after opting to field, with Arshdeep leading the attack with four wickets. Gurnoor Brar claimed three scalps, while Anshul Kamboj picked up two as the hosts struggled to build substantial partnerships. However, Blair Tickner and Jacob Duffy offered late resistance after New Zealand slipped to 146/8. Tickner struck four sixes in his 23-ball 34, including three in a costly 38th over against Arshdeep, as the pair helped take the total to 185. Reflecting on that passage of play, Arshdeep felt India had moved away from the discipline that had served them well throughout the innings. Id say we were being a little greedy and just trying to purchase the wicket. We just need to back what we were doing the whole innings, and the wicket would have come. But we were a little greedy at the end, Arshdeep told the broadcasters after the first innings. The left-arm pacer, who finished with figures of 4-70, said the conditions in Auckland offered encouraging assistance after Indias recent outings in the subcontinent. Loving the weather here and there is good purchase off the surface. After coming from the subcontinent, when you get some life in the wickets, its always a pleasure to bowl here. And yeah, the wind is helping as well, he added. Arshdeeps success also came through Indias willingness to exploit the bounce with short-pitched deliveries, an approach that troubled several New Zealand batters. I felt like there was something in the wicket, so we were just trying to hit the seam hard and try to get purchase off the surface. And they were trying some shots of that length, so we got the wickets, he stated. Asked about his favourite dismissal, Arshdeep offered a playful response, while revealing the personal story behind his celebration. Favourite one would have been the fifth one, which I didnt get. So Im still searching for one. Thats (celebration) for my girlfriend. We do these dance steps when were out walking or something like that. Whenever the mood is a little low, we cheer each other up with that celebration. So this was for her. Asked about his favourite dismissal, Arshdeep offered a playful response, while revealing the personal story behind his celebration. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

West Indies eye rare series win as Bangladesh seek answers

Mushfiqur Rahim should be back in the Bangladesh XI as they look to level the series after going down to West Indies by eight wickets in the first Test in Dhaka

Myself, Team & Coach Got To Know About World Record During Presentation: Prema Rawat On 14-ball Fifty

Niyati Koustubh Lokur: When all-rounder Prema Rawat walked out to bat for Uttarakhand against Hyderabad in the Senior Womens T20 Trophy game in Pune on Monday, there was not much time left. She came in to bat at number four in the 18th over, and Uttarakhands total was 129/2. At that time, the main objective for Prema and Raghvi Bist was to take Uttarakhand past 150 at least. But what followed next was pure carnage in fourteen balls, Prema notched up a sensational half-century. She ended unbeaten after hitting six fours and four sixes at a strike rate of 357, as Uttarakhand posted 187/2. That 14-ball fifty from Prema sits on top of the list for fastest fifty in womens T20 cricket, one ball quicker than the previous best of the 15-ball mark shared by Marie Kelly (Warwickshire, 2022), Fatima Sana (Pakistan, 2026) and Laura Harris, who did it twice, for Otago in 2025 and Surrey in 2026. With reverse hits, as well as loft and whip making appearances, Prema, who chose cricket over hockey in her formative years, hit Sakshi Rao for three boundaries in a row, and then took 18 off an over of Vanka Pooja and finished with 6, 4, 4, 6 against Kunchala Niteesha on the last four balls of the innings. Prema was still not done - she removed G. Kavyasree and N. Kranthi Reddy with her leg-spin to finish with 2-12, as Uttarakhand restricted Hyderabad to 98/8 and won by 89 runs. Prema and the Uttarakhand camp were unaware about her making the world record till match referee Niyati Koustubh Lokur said about it after the game ended. At the presentation ceremony, the referee came and gave the Player of the Match award and told me that it was a world record to get a fifty in 14 balls. Thats how all team members and coaches came to know that it was a world record. I felt normal on hearing that. But yes, I felt good that it was a world record, Prema told IANS in an exclusive conversation from Pune. Prema celebrated this landmark feat by making a trip to the cinema hall and watching Rajinikanths latest Tamil flick Jailer 2. As someone who likes watching south Indian movies, she felt the movie made for a very good watch. Asked whether it was a treat to herself after getting the world record, Prema replied in the affirmative. Straightforward and very grounded, Prema said there was no grand design in her mind when she walked in to bat. The plan was simple - I wanted to play according to the situation. I knew that when I went, there were a few overs left. So, I wanted to score as many runs as possible for the team. I wasnt thinking about a big score or a record. I was just focussing on every ball and trying to give my best to the team. The boundaries she hit were not at all random. It was completely pre-planned. I was just analysing which bowler I should take on or against which bowler I should play in a certain way and against which bowler, where I can score boundaries in better areas. When I felt confident, I decided to play my natural game and take the chances, said Prema. She was equally quick to share the credit with Raghvi, who has played two T20Is for India and made an unbeaten 72 off 50 balls. It was simple. We were motivating each other. We believed in each other. The higher the teams score, it will be easier to defend those runs, especially for the bowlers. I felt that it was a complete batting pitch because the ball was coming on the bat very well. I would like to thank Raghvi for my knock, as because of her innings, I was able to score such a big score and make a world record. So, really, really thankful to Raghvi as well. The switch from batting to bowling, Prema said, was very simple. I kept things simple. Just staying in the present. I batted once and forgot about it as I knew I had to bowl because the team needed my bowling. So, just focusing on my bowling and hitting the good length and line was my focus and to do my best for the team. Yes, that happened and I felt really good. Asked whether she had sensed a big day coming for her, Prema denied having any intuition. No, I had only one simple plan. I dont want to think much before going into a game. I have experienced throughout the cricket journey that when I think a lot about doing well, the opposite has happened with me. So, I dont want to think much. I want to keep things simple and just want to stay in the present. If a chance comes, I want to bat as per the merit of the ball. If bowling comes, I want to execute my plans and do nothing else. 2026 has been a big year for Prema, who made her India T20I debut in June during the T20 World Cup game against South Africa in Manchester and has seven wickets in as many games so far. Not only for me, but for all the girls, all the players have a dream and I got that chance. So, first of all, truly grateful for that opportunity. At that level, cricket is something different. Competition is very strong. So, I have enjoyed every moment there. From getting hit for a six to taking wickets for the team, she said. Her World Cup call came when she was busy preparing for India As matches against England A and didnt follow any news about the tournament. It was only when the India A team manager phoned to tell her she had been named as the replacement for the injured Shreyanka Patil, that Prema made the one-two hours journey to join the Indian team in Manchester. They say that you get sensation- it was going on just like that. But it was good. I had the same plan there dont think much. Whenever you get a chance, give your best. It didnt go as planned, but its okay its a part of the game. Think about it and just leave it there. In the present, what can I do to make the future games better? I focused on that, she said. The standout moment for Prema in India colours came against Pakistan in the Asia Cup group stage, where she took 3-9 in Dubai. That experience was very special for me because everyone wants to play international cricket. That too, if you perform so well against Pakistan, as playing against Pakistan is always a big occasion. So, there is and was pressure. But I believe that it was a good pressure and positive pressure for me as that was energising me every time during every ball, every over, during fielding or bowling. I had a simple plan to hit good length and line and just trust your stock ball. So, I did that and because of that, I got three wickets. I felt good that I was able to contribute to the teams victory, she said. Her camaraderie with left-arm spinner N Sree Charani also made for a delightful watch. Cherry, obviously, is the number one T20 bowler in the world. I have a good bond with her and whatever happens, the ups and downs, we share it with each other. Whether on field, or off field, whether its bowling, or doing some comedy things, pulling each others leg, and making fun of each other - I have a good bond with her. Prema traces her current good form to being a regular in the India A team, including winning the Rising Stars Womens Asia Cup earlier this year in Thailand. The India A coaches mapped Premas strong and weak zones across batting, bowling and fielding. The chase of 363 in the 50-over series decider against Australia A in Mohali, she said, was crazy. India A was a very big turning point for me. From there, I got the confidence that I can play at a higher level as well. I can change my mindset and analyse the situation. I can execute my plan B or plan C immediately. Obviously, from there, I got to know what areas I should improve in. After that, I worked harder and believed more in myself. Prema was part of Royal Challengers Bengalurus title-winning sides in the 2025 and 2026 WPL, with three wickets in six games, and has been retained for 2027. Playing in front of such big crowds, she said, was an education in itself. It feels good. First of all, thanks to RCB for retaining me. My role will be the same as what I am doing here and in the Indian team. I will have the same role in RCB if I get a chance to be in the playing eleven and how much I can contribute to the team. I have learnt a lot from being in RCB. I have gained confidence, especially how to handle various situations because, coming from domestic cricket and playing for RCB is such a big jump. Like, its a big franchise and it has such a big fan base. So, I have also experienced that aspect. I have also learnt how to handle that pressure. I have also shared the dressing room with many experienced players and got to know about their hard work, discipline and pressure handling skills. The environment there is very positive and everyone supports each other. Back home, her record 14-ball fifty came as a surprise. Yes, they are feeling proud. Its a bit shocking for them as I am an all-rounder and kahi na kahi achanak se hi hua hai (they think that this has happened all of a sudden). They also got to know about it all of a sudden, just like how I found out. They were shocked, but were proud of me at the same time. At times, they do say, Sarkari job lelo karke (Take up a government job). But its okay thats not important for me right now. Cricket is important to me. But overall, the family mahaul (atmosphere) is very good. Prema also credited the womens Uttarakhand Premier League (UPL) for the exposure and chance to play in televised games. Its very important because as far as I know, I got noticed from there by many people through the opportunities I got in the state T20 league. It gave me a good platform to show my talent and get noticed. First of all, I would like to thank the Cricket Association of Uttarakhand for the womens UPL. Playing in the league helped me understand my game better and prepare me for the bigger opportunities. The young players coming from this league are very good and get to show their talent and be noticed. Former Uttarakhand coach Anagha Deshpande was another big influence on Prema. Anagha mam was with us for a long time. She had been very supportive and calm throughout the games. She helped a lot of players, whether it is on the field or off the field, as well as emotionally. Actually, she did a lot of work on us. She helped us a lot in how we can grow in various ways. Like, the more we talk, the more we will know about our game. The more we learn and tell each other about knowing and understanding our game and improving as players, she made us understand that. Former Uttarakhand coach Anagha Deshpande was another big influence on Prema. Anagha mam was with us for a long time. She had been very supportive and calm throughout the games. She helped a lot of players, whether it is on the field or off the field, as well as emotionally. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Arshdeep's Auckland heroics put him among legends

Arshdeep Singh delivered a stellar performance in the first ODI against New Zealand in Auckland, taking four wickets for 70 runs. This achievement places him alongside Javagal Srinath and Mohammed Shami as only the third Indian pacer to secure a four-wicket haul in New Zealand. He expressed satisfaction with the pitch conditions and his short-ball tactic, despite missing out on a five-wicket haul.

Arshdeep Singh joins Javagal Srinath and Mohammed Shami in an elite list with four-wicket haul against NZ

The Indian team took on New Zealand in the first ODI of the ongoing series. The two sides met at Eden Park in Auckland on November 4th, and the game began with the Men in Blue winning the toss and opting to bowl first in the clash. The visitors put forth a brilliant showing with the ball and limited New Zealand to a score of 185 runs in the first innings of the game after playing some good cricket .

1st ODI: Arshdeep, Gurnoor bowl out New Zealand for 185

India's young pace attack, spearheaded by Arshdeep Singh and Gurnoor Brar, delivered a dominant performance to dismiss New Zealand for a below-par 185 in the first ODI in Auckland on Wednesday. Skipper Shubman Gill's decision to field was vindicated as the bowlers, including Anshul Kamboj, showcased impressive skill and control, unsettling the Black Caps on their home ground.

Brendon McCullum Reveals What England Learned From Pakistan Disappointment

England white-ball head coach Brendon McCullum wants his side to take lessons from their recent ODI tri-series in Pakistan as they prepare for the upcoming limited-overs tour of Australia.