1st ODI: India Will Play Around No.3 Slot In Virat Kohlis Absence, Says Morkel
Indian Premier League: Indias fast bowling coach Morne Morkel has indicated that the team will experiment with the number three batting position in Virat Kohlis absence during the threematch ODI series against Afghanistan, starting at the HPCA Stadium on Saturday. Kohli was ruled out of the three ODIs against Afghanistan due to a hamstring injury picked up while hitting a match-winning 75 not out in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 final against the Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad. In his absence, Ishan Kishan, KL Rahul, and Yashasvi Jaiswal are in contention to bat at number three. I think thats something that in this series well play around with, (whether) its Ishan (Kishan) or KL (Rahul) or Yashasvi (Jaiswal). We have got a couple of oneday games coming up, and well give guys an opportunity in different slots to give ourselves a better idea of how we can structure teams and have different options, Morkel said in the pre-match press conference. Rahul has largely featured as a middle-order batter in the past five years, but in Indias training session on Friday, Kishan was on keeping duties while Rahul was tasked with taking outfield catches, thus raising the prospect of the Karnataka lad being promoted up the order for Saturdays clash. Morkel also spoke about the new pacers Prince Yadav and Gurnoor Brar, who are in line to get their international debuts in the series, with the next two games to be played in Lucknow and Chennai on June 17 and 20, respectively. First impressions, it is almost like theyve been part of the squad for five years. I saw no nervousness on their face. The way theyve gone about training, the energy theyve trained with, was good to see, he said. Morkel signed off by saying that Rohit Sharma was all fine after being spotted training with a different thigh pad, initially thought as protection for his hamstring, which he injured during IPL 2026. First impressions, it is almost like theyve been part of the squad for five years. I saw no nervousness on their face. The way theyve gone about training, the energy theyve trained with, was good to see, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Rohit is moving well and training well. So excited to see him go. Always nice to have his experience back as well. Just the calmness that he brings to the dressing room is always a positive to have. He's training well, he's moving well. So I know that he's also excited to go. Article Source: IANS
Rohit Would Want To Score Those Big Hundreds That Everyone Expects From Him, Says Piyush Chawla
Vijay Hazare Trophy: Former India legspinner Piyush Chawla has said veteran opener Rohit Sharma will be keen to hit the big hundreds that fans and the team have come to expect from him when the threematch ODI series against Afghanistan begins in Dharamshala on Saturday. When you are playing just one format for India, you want to spend as much time at the crease as possible because, no matter how much net practice or match simulation you do, an international match, regardless of the opposition, is a different challenge. So, as a batter, you want to score big runs and, if he is completely fit, he would want to score those big hundreds that everyone has come to expect from him. Because more than those quick 40s and 50s, the team would want those innings of 120-130 runs off 100 deliveries from Rohit, said Chawla on JioHotstar. On potential debutants during the series, Chawla felt Delhi-based rookie pacer Prince Yadav could get a chance. All three of Gurnoor, Harsh Dubey, and Prince Yadav might get an opportunity during the series as an audition, especially if India win the first two games. But I see Prince Yadav as the strongest contender to get a chance among them. Not just in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, even in the IPL, under pressure, he executed his plans, bowled those yorkers consistently, and took wickets. So, my eyes will definitely be on him. Quizzed on who fills the number three slot in Virat Kohlis absence and the bowling combination with no Hardik Pandya around, Chawla said the likes of Yashasvi Jaiswal, Washington Sundar, and Kuldeep Yadav should be backed to fill those vacancies in the playing eleven. Yashasvi Jaiswal hasnt done anything wrong. In the last ODI he played, he scored a century against South Africa. But given the current form, I feel Ishan Kishan would get the nod. And when you travel for a World Cup, you need a backup wicketkeeper, so he fits both those roles, a backup opener, and a backup keeper. Among the spinners, I would go with Washington Sundar and Kuldeep Yadav. Washington helps extend the batting until No. 8, and Kuldeep will take care of the middle overs. If you look at his ODI numbers, not many bowlers are even close to him. Among the pacers, I would like Arshdeep to get some game time, a bowler who can pick up early wickets, along with Prasidh Krishna. Among the spinners, I would go with Washington Sundar and Kuldeep Yadav. Washington helps extend the batting until No. 8, and Kuldeep will take care of the middle overs. Also Read: Live Cricket Score You will have Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi operating in the middle overs. And we know that Indian batters in the middle order like to show their intent against spin, so it will be a fascinating battle. That phase of the game will play an important role in determining the outcome. Article Source: IANS
Saturday at T20 World Cup: Ismail's return, reruns of 2024 semis, and some rain
A look at the first triple-header of the Women's T20 World Cup
Bengal T20 League Season: A dominant all-round performance helped Murshidabad Kings secure their first victory of the Bengal T20 League Season 3, defeating Rashmi Nes Medinipur Wizards by 28 runs via the DLS Method at Eden Gardens on Thursday. Batting first, Murshidabad Kings posted an imposing 201/5 in their 20 overs. Rishabh Chaudhary led the charge with a fluent 71 off 49 deliveries, while Saksham Chaudhary contributed a well-made 50 off 37 balls. Toufik Uddin Mondal provided the late flourish with a blistering 37 off just 17 deliveries to take his side past the 200-run mark. For Medinipur Wizards, Debopratim Halder was the most successful bowler, claiming two wickets. In reply, Medinipur Wizards struggled to keep pace with the required rate and were 95/5 in 11.5 overs when rain interrupted play. With conditions preventing any further action, Murshidabad Kings were declared winners by 28 runs under the DLS Method. Priyanshu Gaurav Srivastava top-scored for the Wizards with 32 off 22 balls, but the Murshidabad bowlers kept the batting line-up under pressure throughout the chase. Toufik capped off an impressive all-round outing by returning figures of 3/28, playing a key role in guiding Murshidabad Kings to a memorable victory. The Bengal T20 League is a franchise-based T20 cricket competition organised under the aegis of the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB). Now in its third season, the league features eight city-based franchises representing the breadth of West Bengal - Adamas Howrah Warriors, Novus Royals Purulia, Kolkata Royal Tigers, Murshidabad Kings & Kueens, Rashmi Nes Medinipur Wizards, Servotech Siliguri Strikers, Shrachi Rarh Tigers, and Sobisco Smashers Malda competing across men's and women's competitions. Men's matches are held at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, with women's matches at the JU Salt Lake Campus, Kolkata. Brief scores: Murshidabad Kings vs Rashmi NES Medinipur Wizards Murshidabad Kings: 201/5 (20 overs) Murshidabad Kings vs Rashmi NES Medinipur Wizards Also Read: Live Cricket Score Result: Murshidabad Kings won by 28 runs (DLS Method) Article Source: IANS
It Just Feels Like Right Time For Me To Step Away: Williamson On Retirement Decision
World Test Championship: Kane Williamson said it feels like the right time to walk away from international cricket, explaining that he wanted to leave the game while still fully committed rather than continue simply to add more appearances to his record. The former New Zealand captain announced his retirement from international cricket after the first Test against England at Lord's. This marked the end of a notable 16-year international career that included 110 Tests. Williamson shared that he made this decision while sitting on the Lord's balcony after New Zealand's defeat in the opening Test. It just feels like the right time for me to step away, Williamson was quoted by ESPNcricinfo as saying. The 35-year-old spent several days thinking about his choice and discussing it with his parents and partner before informing a small group that included captain Tom Latham, head coach Rob Walter, and team manager Mike Sandle. Most of his teammates were surprised by the news, learning of his decision on Friday morning when he called an informal meeting at the team's hotel. The timing surprised many, considering New Zealand had just started a three-Test series against England and had a packed home season against India and Australia approaching. However, Williamson emphasised that he did not want to be part of the squad unless he could fully commit. When I look at the dressing room now and see the talent, and the journey that I think this team's looking to go on, it just feels like the right time for me to step away, he stated. I feel really good about it. It's funny when you reflect on so much, but all good things come to an end. It's the change of seasons. Williamson admitted retirement was not on his mind before the Lord's Test, but the experience led him to reflect deeply. I didn't have it in mind, he said. At that point, you want to value every experience and really commit, because thats what you have done, and what you expect from everyone else in the group. They definitely do that in a big way. So, yes, a bit of reflection. Obviously, that was an interesting match itself, but I was sitting up there on the balcony and thinking a bit about it. Then I took some time in the days after to get comfortable with the idea. I really like being grateful for the time I've had with this New Zealand cricket team, and I also feel excited about the potential I see in the group. Having turned down a New Zealand central contract two years ago to better balance his workload and spend more time with his family, Williamson said he felt at peace stepping away while still able to perform at a high level. It feels good not to exhaust it, because it's not just about me, he said. There are many factors and a deep care for the team. Williamson also felt satisfied that he finished his international career at the home of cricket instead of planning a farewell match in New Zealand. Playing that last game at Lord's is kind of cool, he said. I have too much respect for this team and where it's wanting to go. He will stay with the squad for the rest of the England tour but plans to step back and let a new generation of leaders emerge. I'll be giving the team a bit of space, Williamson said. I remember the day when other leaders in our team left. There are steps to take, and I think my stepping away allows that. Head coach Rob Walter acknowledged the significant loss for New Zealand. You don't lose Kane Williamson off the team sheet and get stronger, because he's a legend, Walter said. When addressing the timing of the announcement, Walter added, Everyone is asking, 'Why in the middle of the series?' but you hear his reasons, and you understand fully. That's the person he is, and the regard that he has for the team. It's not just about continuing because it's the end of a series. He wants to give the opportunity to someone else to take his place and fill a long-term role for the team. Looking back on his career, Williamson pointed out New Zealand's victory over India in the 2021 World Test Championship final as one of his proudest moments. It was a real evolution of the side to reach that point, to deliver strong performances consistently, and to see some success after the ups and downs we experienced, he said. It was great, but for those reasons rather than just the win. The veteran also reflected on his journey from his Test debut to becoming one of the most respected figures in the sport. Remembering your first Test is special. It was the best thing ever. Even if you never play again, you have your baggy cap. It's incredible, he said. Then, 16 years later, you're here making this decision. It's been an incredible journey. When asked how he would like to be remembered, Williamson's response reflected the values that defined his career. Oh gosh, I didn't prepare for this one, he said with a smile. Just as someone who cared deeply about the team, always wanted to do more, and was committed to my craft. I'm really grateful for it all. While his international cricket career is now over, Williamson has not ruled out staying involved in the game. After working as a strategic advisor with the Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL, coaching could be one avenue for him. Oh gosh, I didn't prepare for this one, he said with a smile. Just as someone who cared deeply about the team, always wanted to do more, and was committed to my craft. I'm really grateful for it all. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Williamson added that he remains undecided about continuing to play franchise cricket. I'm just going to cross that bridge when I come to it. No specific plans in the playing department, but we'll see. Article Source: IANS
Its Been A Pleasure Watching You Bat: Kohli, Jay Shah Hail Williamsons Legacy After Retirement
ICC Chairman Jay Shah: Former India captain Virat Kohli and ICC Chairman Jay Shah led tributes to New Zealand batting great Kane Williamson after the Black Caps stalwart announced his retirement from international cricket, bringing an end to a distinguished 16-year career. Williamson, regarded as one of the finest batters of his generation, called time on an international journey that saw him become New Zealands highest run-scorer across formats with 19,346 runs in 378 matches, including 48 centuries and six double-hundreds. Kohli, who shared one of modern crickets most respected rivalries and friendships with Williamson, posted an emotional message on social media, reflecting on their bond beyond the cricket field. From an opponent to a friend over the years. Its been a pleasure watching you bat and compete against you over so many years, but more than that, I value our friendship and shared perspectives on the game and beyond, Kohli wrote on X. I continue to cherish every time we speak or meet. Wishing you nothing but the best always, brother. Youve done your bit, you deserve to enjoy all of it now and put your feet up. Well done, mate, lifes only just begun, He added. ICC Chairman Jay Shah also congratulated Williamson on a career defined by excellence and leadership. Congratulations to Kane Williamson on an exceptional international career built on class, humility, and outstanding leadership. Your achievements as the ICC Mens Cricket World Cup 2019 Player of the Tournament and the captain of New Zealand's historic ICC World Test Championship 2021 triumph will remain etched in cricketing history, Shah wrote in a post on X. Wishing you continued success and fulfilment in all your future endeavours, The ICC chair added. Williamsons retirement drew admiration from across the cricketing world, with former Australia opener David Warner also paying a heartfelt tribute to his longtime friend and rival. Kano, its been an absolute privilege to play both alongside you and against you over the years. The runs, the records, and the achievements speak for themselves, but what has always stood out most to me is the person behind it all. Youve been one of the genuine good blokes of world cricket humble, respectful, and someone who played the game in the right spirit every single time you walked onto the field. Whether we were teammates or opponents, I always loved sharing the field with you because you brought out the best in everyone around you. Kano, its been an absolute privilege to play both alongside you and against you over the years. The runs, the records, and the achievements speak for themselves, but what has always stood out most to me is the person behind it all. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The 35-year-old Williamson leaves the international game as one of New Zealand crickets most influential figures. Apart from captaining the side to the inaugural ICC World Test Championship title in 2021, he led the Black Caps to the final of the 2019 World Cup and was widely praised for his calm leadership and sportsmanship. Article Source: IANS
Women's T20 World Cup: Scotland Bring In Hannah Rainey For Injured Maqsood
T20 World Cup Global Qualifier: Scotland have been forced into a late squad change ahead of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026, with Hannah Rainey officially approved as a replacement for injured leg-spinner Abtaha Maqsood. The Event Technical Committee of the tournament approved Rainey's inclusion after Maqsood was ruled out with a metacarpal fracture she sustained during Scotland's warm-up match against Pakistan on June 9. This injury is a setback for Scotland as they prepare for their second consecutive Women's T20 World Cup under the leadership of experienced all-rounder Kathryn Bryce. Bryce will captain a team that mixes experience with youth, featuring three players from the ICC Women's Under-19 T20 World Cup 2025: bowler Gabriella Fontenla, wicketkeeper-batter Pippa Sproul, and uncapped pace bowler Maisie Maceira. Scotland secured their spot in the tournament in England and Wales through the ICC Women's T20 World Cup Global Qualifier. They reached the Super Six stage after finishing second in Group B, behind the Netherlands. Although Scotland lost to Bangladesh in the Super Six, important wins over Ireland and the United States allowed them to finish third overall in the Global Qualifier and earn a place in the World Cup. The squad now aims to build on the experience from their first Women's T20 World Cup campaign in 2024 and make a bigger impact on the global stage. Scotland face a tough task in the tournament after being drawn in a group with hosts England, Ireland, defending champions New Zealand, Sri Lanka, and the West Indies, with only the top two making it to the semi-finals. But Kathryn Bryces side comes into the competition with confidence after building encouraging momentum in the build-up to the World Cup. Although Scotland lost to Bangladesh in the Super Six, important wins over Ireland and the United States allowed them to finish third overall in the Global Qualifier and earn a place in the World Cup. The squad now aims to build on the experience from their first Women's T20 World Cup campaign in 2024 and make a bigger impact on the global stage. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Scotland Women's T20 World Cup updated squad: Kathryn Bryce (captain), Chloe Abel, Olivia Bell, Sarah Bryce, Darcey Carter, Priyanaz Chatterji, Gabriella Fontenla, Katherine Fraser, Kirstie Gordon, Ailsa Lister, Maisie Maceira, Hannah Rainey, Megan McColl, Rachel Slater, and Pippa Sproul. Article Source: IANS
Shadow Womens A Tour, CoE Coaching Appointments Reflect Boards Planning, Says Anjum Chopra
T20 World Cup: Former India captain Anjum Chopra has said the shadow womens A tour running alongside the senior teams Womens T20 World Cup campaign in England, coupled with recent Centre of Excellence (CoE) coaching appointments, is a reflection of the BCCIs systematic planning. Anushka Sharma, who made her T20I debut on the South Africa tour in April, will lead India 'A' for the three T20s against England 'A'. The matches will be played in Northampton on June 20 and 23, followed by the third fixture in Chelmsford on June 25. Harleen Deol will lead the team in the three onedayers beginning June 28 in Hove and Taunton. The 16yearold Deeya Yadav, who was with the Delhi Capitals in WPL before an injury ruled her out, has also been picked in the T20 squad. Let's just say that the entire top brass of Indian cricket players from India A, B, men and women are in the UK playing a series over there. From June onwards till the end of July, everybody who plays cricket in India at the India senior and A level is actually going to be there in the UK. So, it's a good thing, which is a very nice and important aspect as well, because consider the fact that if somebody gets injured, you can just get in a quick replacement if needed. That is the biggest plus over here when you are playing shadow tours. Also, the players you are talking about are good prospects. Whether it is Nikki Prasad, Anushka Sharma, Shabnam Shakil and anyone else, they get valuable outing and match experience and international cricket-like experience when they play on all these tours, Anjum told IANS in an exclusive conversation on Friday. G. Kamalini and Uma Chetry have been included in both squads as wicketkeeper-batters along with leftarm spinner Vaishnavi Sharma, who debuted for India last year. Pratika Rawal will serve as vicecaptain in the 50-over games, while Karnataka batter Vrinda Dinesh has been named as Anushkas deputy in the T20s. So, right now, for the women players, I guess the sky is very open. What you make of the opportunities is in your own hands because earlier, there were no A tours. Now, wherever the Indian team is playing, I think 6, 8, or even 12 months prior or like now, simultaneously as the Indian senior women team is there, the shadow tour is there, which is a great thing to happen. I feel this is actually a compliment for our cricket board because they are able to organise such matches as well on a continuous basis. It's not that one tour will go to Bangladesh, and the Indian senior team will go to England. No, it's not like that, as it's very well planned. If India have to go and play in South Africa, there will be an India 'A' tour, something which would have happened probably 10 or 12 months earlier. So, it's a nice time to be a cricketer as well, and how our cricket association plans it out, I think it's kudos to them too, added Anjum. She also welcomed the appointment of former India players, two-time U19 World Cup-winning head coach Nooshin Al Khadeer, Sunetra Paranjpe and Vanitha VR into the CoE setup, saying their absorption into the system was both timely and deserved. IANS had previously reported on May 14 about the trios appointment at the CoE, and it is understood they are mainly needed for being with the U19 womens team, who are set to play white-ball games against Sri Lanka from June 22 to July 6 in Chennai and Puducherry, respectively. It's good - Nooshin has been around with the Under-19 team since 2023 or maybe since the preparation started. So, she has been around with the Under-19 team and knows the drill. It's nice that Sunetra has also joined, and Vanitha has also taken part. Look, people who want to make a career in this coaching field, and when they get absorbed at the CoE, it means that they have obviously passed all the tests and the requisite reasons, or probably the areas in which they need to be perfectly fit in that CoE coaching setup. It's good - Nooshin has been around with the Under-19 team since 2023 or maybe since the preparation started. So, she has been around with the Under-19 team and knows the drill. It's nice that Sunetra has also joined, and Vanitha has also taken part. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Obviously, all this information gets passed on to the women's players, and I hope it does and that information is shared. But it's always nice to have people who are wanting to make a career in the field of coaching getting this opportunity, concluded Anjum. Article Source: IANS
Williamson on retiring mid-series: 'Just feels like the right time'
Williamson announced his retirement from international cricket after the first Test against England at Lord's
Rainey replaces injured Maqsood in Scotland squad
Maqsood sustained a fractured hand during Scotland's warm-up match against Pakistan
India face test of depth in first-ever ODI series against Afghanistan
Afghanistan will lean on their ODI experience in India, who will not have Kohli, Hardik, Siraj and Bumrah
Both Kranti Gaud: Former India captain Anjum Chopra believes both Kranti Gaud and Renuka Singh Thakur should start in India's playing eleven alongside Arundhati Reddy for the 2026 ICC Womens T20 World Cup, asserting that the trio forms the backbone of India's pace attack regardless of the experiments seen during the preceding T20I series against England. Indias bowling unit remains the bigger concern heading into their first clash against Pakistan at Edgbaston on Sunday, especially with form and selection still unsettled. Deepti Sharmas struggles since the Australia tour, the absence of a genuine allrounder like Amanjot Kaur, and Englands repeated exposure of Indias deathbowling frailties have left the thinktank searching for answers. Rookie pacer Nandni Sharma was picked on the back of a promising WPL debut, but her lack of game time in the warmups raises questions, after she picked three wickets on debut in Chelmsford. Renuka Singh Thakur showed prodigious swing against England and even produced a jaffa to dismiss Danni WyattHodge, but leaked runs in the death overs. Indias two warmup fixtures - a 26run win over West Indies and a sixrun loss to England - offered little clarity, with more questions than answers about the bowling pool, especially with Arundhati and Kranti having inconsistent returns. We don't know why Renuka didn't get a game in the first three T20s that India played against England. I mean, whether they wanted to give others an opportunity like Nandni Sharma out there in the centre, because consistency was not there with even Kranti Gaud. In my view, Kranti Gaud and Renuka Singh Thakur both start in the playing eleven for India with Arundhati Reddy. So, if you go by that fact, then you can only play two spinners. You can't play Charani, Radha, Deepti, and Shreyanka together. I mean, you have to take a pick. You can't have that kind of a build-up because India is obviously missing all-rounders here, Anjum told IANS in an exclusive conversation ahead of India playing its first game against Pakistan at Edgbaston on Sunday. In the spin bowling department, India need to decide their make-up between an expensive Deepti Sharma (who was rested from warm-up games), Shreyanka Patil, N Sree Charani, and Radha Yadav. Anjum felt that Shreyanka would be a vital cog in the wheel if India were to enter the semifinals from a tough group featuring Australia, South Africa, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and the Netherlands. Look, Shreyanka is actually playing for the very first time in England. She has never played in England. This is her very first outing, and it does take time for any cricketer to adapt and understand the conditions - whether it's hot or cold does not matter. The fact that you are playing in a different country, on a different soil, in different conditions. Even if they are closer to how you feel at home, they are still alien. So, it does take time. So, Shreyanka, for me, should be playing each and every game. She should be out there bowling in the centre as much as possible because Charani has experience of bowling in England, and she doesnt have it yet. So, for me, Shreyanka will become a very important cog in the wheel in case the Indian team decides to play her, which I feel they will do somewhere in the middle games. On the experiments carried out against England and in the warm-ups, including a trend of Deepti being introduced late in the innings as a bowler, Anjum explained, That is okay. It's fair to say that you need to give everyone a chance. Like Arundhati Reddy, I mean, before this series, I had rarely seen her bowl with a new ball, primarily because she has better control when she comes in after the new-ball bowlers have bowled. So, when she bowls in the middle overs, that's absolutely fine for her, or maybe in the death overs. But in this series, in all three games, she took the new ball. Not that she didn't bowl well, or that she bowled badly. She bowled really well. In patches, only one of the games, she got hit towards the end. But then, where her initial part of the bowling was good, her latter part, or maybe the death bowling, did not really help India as well, because I think in one of the games, she conceded about 23 or 24 runs in one of the games (in Bristol), and that can happen to any bowler. But because Arundhati has been getting that new ball, again, it makes a difference as to who will bowl from the other side. So, then you don't see Deepti Sharma taking the new ball. But again, I say, I feel these three matches were more about understanding and weighing your options and giving everyone a chance and an opportunity away from their regular positions. But then, where her initial part of the bowling was good, her latter part, or maybe the death bowling, did not really help India as well, because I think in one of the games, she conceded about 23 or 24 runs in one of the games (in Bristol), and that can happen to any bowler. Also Read: Live Cricket Score --IANS Article Source: IANS
Women's T20 WC 2026 : When And Where To Watch AUS Vs SA, Know All Details
T20 World Cup: Australia will kick off their ICC Womens T20 World Cup 2026 campaign with a challenging Group 1 clash against South Africa at Old Trafford on Saturday. The six-time champions enter the tournament as the world's top-ranked T20I side and will be aiming to make a strong start under the leadership of new captain Sophie Molineux. Meanwhile, South Africa, currently ranked fifth in the format, arrive with growing confidence as they continue to establish themselves among the elite teams in womens cricket. The Proteas will once again be led by Laura Wolvaardt, who captains the side in her second consecutive T20 World Cup. South Africa will hope to carry forward the momentum they have built over recent years and challenge one of the most dominant teams in the history of the competition. Historically, Australia have enjoyed overwhelming success against South Africa in T20 internationals. The Australians have won nine of the 11 meetings between the two teams, while South Africa have managed just two victories. Australia's dominance is even more evident on the World Cup stage. The teams have faced each other eight times in Women's T20 World Cup history, with Australia emerging victorious in seven of those contests. South Africa's only win in the tournament came during the 2023 edition. When: Saturday, June 13, 7:00 PM IST Where: Old Trafford Stadium, Manchester Where to watch: The Australia vs South Africa match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Squads: Where to watch: The Australia vs South Africa match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Also Read: Live Cricket Score South Africa: Laura Wolvaardt (c), Tazmin Brits, Nadine de Klerk, Annerie Dercksen, Shabnim Ismail, Sinalo Jafta, Marizanne Kapp, Ayabonga Khaka, Sune Luus, Karabo Meso, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Kayla Reyneke, Tumi Sekhukhune, Chloe Tryon, Dane van Niekerk Article Source: IANS
T20 World Cup: Former India captain Anjum Chopra has said batting must lead the way for the Indian team at the 2026 ICC Womens T20 World Cup, stressing that the bowling unit is still developing and will need to dig deeper if the side is to go all the way to the trophy. India will enter the 2026 ICC Womens T20 World Cup carrying the tag of ODI world champions, but their recent form has been patchy. Over the last six months, the side registered series wins at home against Sri Lanka and away against Australia, but stumbled in both recent overseas assignments against South Africa (4-1) and England (2-1). That India has to understand or the players need to probably take their roles very much seriously. Not that they don't - they do, but what I understood is that whether it is batting or bowling leading the way, the team has to decide. In my view, batting leads the way in this Indian team. If that has to happen, then there is no room for faltering of the batters because we are playing five specialist batters in this lineup and team. If five batters specializing only in one field are there, then there is no room for failures, Anjum told IANS in an exclusive conversation ahead of India starting their campaign against Pakistan on Sunday. From the three-match T20I series against England, India played a returning Yastika Bhatia at number three, which meant Jemimah Rodrigues and Harmanpreet Kaur went down to number four and five respectively. Though Yastika finished as the leading run-getter in the series with 119 runs, her strike rate of 126.79 was the lowest among the top five scorers. Anjum felt Yastikas move to number three was dictated by limited options in the middle order. I understand why these changes have been made and one big reason is the fact that they don't have many options to bat at number three. When I say options to bat at number there, if there is for example a Jemi or Harman batting, then there is no or less options for batting in the middle order. Ideally Bharti Fulmali would have been a perfect fit had she taken her chances. Indian team took her to Australia, where she was not played. I think she was on the team to South Africa also where she did not do justice to that opportunities that was given. In England also, I think one practice match that they played before the T20 series, she actually got some runs but I am pretty certain that she was not convincing. She has not been the best fielder around on the park as well. So, I am assuming because the middle order space was slightly a challenge for the Indian team, so they wanted to strengthen the top order. Now, when you strengthen the top order, there is no other place for Yastika. I mean, she can bat in the middle order, but she has got challenges of her own and keeping those challenges in mind, it is better that she bats at the top. So, that is possibly the reason why I feel that Yastika is there at number three. Quizzed on Yastikas slowness in scoring, especially after power-play, hampering Indias batting flow, Anjum felt one has to be patient with her, considering she had an ACL surgery on her left knee which ruled her out of Indias ODI World Cup winning campaign last year. See, that timing can vary. In T20 cricket, that can happen to anyone. You can start off slow but you can make up later with the fluency. You can have a great fluency going but somewhere down the line, you just lose that momentum. It can happen and let's not forget that Yastika does not have a lot of cricket behind her. For the last two years, she has been more on the sidelines. She played on Australia A tour in a few matches, but when she came back to the Indian team, she was injured and then she didn't play this season of WPL. So, she is actually coming off a big injury lay-off and that fluency is there in the stroke play. But the fluency is not there on the park in terms of running between and even fielding and that has to be managed in the side. For losing timing, that can happen to any batter. But at the end of the day, when she strikes the ball, one has to compliment that the ball actually makes a very nice sound. The bat hitting the ball makes a very nice sweet sound from Yastika's bat when she is in full flow and that is one of the big reasons why India dominated that first game (in Chelmsford). Speaking about Bharti, whos been dealing with inconsistency and lack of decent game time after making a comeback to the T20I team for the Australia tour, Anju stated that her initial selection had come as a surprise to her and that she not being at her best also led to restructuring of batting order. I don't think Bharti has taken her chances and there is no hiding from that fact. If she had taken her chances, she would have played in the middle overs in the first and second T20I. There is no way that she wouldn't have got a chance. That is in my view as I don't think she has taken her chances. Her selection was a surprise for me when it actually happened and that happened during the WPL in 2026. She did well in those couple of matches and was picked for the Indian team. The day she was picked for the Indian team, since then till the last, I didn't see the bat and the ball meeting nicely for Bharti Fulmali while playing for the franchise at all. So, I am not surprised that she has not grabbed those chances. Why? Why not? What could have been done? I do not know because I am not with the Indian team and I am not watching their practice sessions (regularly). So, I wouldn't know the fact. But what I saw of her playing, she didn't look as convincing as she was before her Indian selection, she added. On Deepti Sharmas promotion ahead of Richa Ghosh in Taunton and possibility of it being repeated in the World Cup, Anjum felt it was about giving Deepti more batting time. I feel it was just about giving game time as a batter to Deepti ahead of Richa. Whether it is right or wrong, I mean, it's a debate for any day. But I felt it was just about giving Deepti Sharma a little more game time out there in the centre because in the earlier game, she had not had that kind of batting. Coming to Richa's part, I feel that the Indian batting order is flexible and I am not a big fan of flexibility myself because I feel that every batter should know where they are playing, what they are doing. But at the end of the day, how the present scenario of this Indian batting order is, I will say that what you asked about Richa getting promoted, if need be, yes, she needs to walk in ahead of many other batters. On Indias bowling, Anjum was blunt in her assessment. See, there will not be just one factor. There will be multiple factors (of success). Of course, individually if you pick up the skill or the discipline that you are talking about, then yes, batting will in my view lead the way. Bowling has to try very hard to find ways to pick up wickets of the opposition camp. They have to literally dig deeper than what we saw in the first three T20 games (against England). In totality, it will not be just one side leading the way. I guess fielding will play a very important part and I say that for every game. It doesn't matter whether you are playing a number one or tenth ranked team. Fielding will play a very crucial part because India will be playing a lot of their matches in the daytime because of the Indian timing. So, that will also make a big difference and there will be a lot of good support for the team and it will just spur them on and encourage them because now the girls are pretty used to playing cricket in front of a good capacity crowd. They have to literally dig deeper than what we saw in the first three T20 games (against England). In totality, it will not be just one side leading the way. I guess fielding will play a very important part and I say that for every game. It doesn't matter whether you are playing a number one or tenth ranked team. Also Read: Live Cricket Score On conditions for Sundays game against Pakistan, Anjum signed off by saying India would adjust combinations as per nature of the pitch. If its a spin-assisted track in Birmingham against Pakistan, obviously you will find an extra spinner in the Indian team. If it's a good batting track, then I don't think the Indian team will pack it up with an additional spinner. They will still go with a three-seam bowling option. Article Source: IANS
Womens T20 WC: Indian Team Will Walk With Confidence Of Being ODI WC Champion, Says Anjum Chopra
T20 World Cup: Former skipper Anjum Chopra believes no side can claim favourites status in the 2026 ICC Womens T20 World Cup, but insists India carries a distinct advantage going into the tournament - the confidence of being 50-over World Cup winners. Buoyed by last years ODI World Cup triumph, India will aim to get its first Womens T20 World Cup title when they open their Group 1 campaign against Pakistan at Edgbaston on Sunday. Harmanpreet Kaur-led India are entering the World Cup on the back of 2-1 defeat to England, as well as mixed results in the warm-up clashes (winning over West Indies before losing to England). I don't think they will be talking much about the 2024 campaign because after 2024, 2025 happened. What they will be talking about is the good moments and the winning effort that the team puts in. The biggest thing is that they will be walking into this World Cup with the confidence behind them of being a world champion in a 50-over format. So, yes, India has not made such a massive impact apart from playing semifinals in 2018, and playing a final in 2020 and they have a lot of work to do. I won't say that they will start as favourites. But I will also say in the same breath that nobody starts as favourites in this World Cup, Anjum told IANS in an exclusive conversation ahead of India starting their campaign. She also pointed out that pre-tournament predictions carry limited weight once the competition begins, adding even defending champions New Zealand had arrived at the previous edition in 2024 on the back of a prolonged run of defeats. Like, New Zealand are the defending champions. If you look at the way that New Zealand is lining up for this World Cup, I won't say it's pretty much similar. Even in 2024, they had lost almost 10 games leading up to the 2024 T20 World Cup. But come the World Cup, things changed for them and they became world champions. So, as we are here before the start of this World Cup, we speak and look at teams - I don't think any team starts favourites because everybody has some area of concern in their lineup - be it Australia, South Africa, India, New Zealand, any and every team. Yes, the experience of Australia is there, as they aim for their seventh title. Yes, New Zealand will be one of those strong teams to make an impact and South Africa, in my view, is one of those probably better placed teams than many other teams in this World Cup, but nobody starts as favourites, she added. The tournament's expansion to 12 teams for the first time adds a layer of unpredictability that previous editions lacked, with Anjum warning that established sides cannot afford to take any opponent lightly once the group stage begins on Friday night. It's a tough draw - take nothing away from it. I mean, you have to accept the fact that this is the 12-team tournament for the very first time and each and every one has earned their place to get into this lineup and space. It's not about somebody being lower ranked than the other teams. Yes, some teams will obviously be lower ranked. But it's because everyone is there playing the same tournament. When you walk into the ground and cross those ropes, then there is no grading of where you stand as a team. It's about who plays better cricket on that particular day and actually wins the game. So, I don't think the Indian team will be taking anything lightly and should not be also. But it's also going to be very essential to understand that there is no room for making a mistake or complacency. It has to be spot on - it's like hitting bullseye every time you walk out because straight away, those five league matches that India or any team will be playing will count for valuable points. Then only you can say that we tried our best because everybody can't get to the same final. There will be only two teams from each pool to get into the same final after being in the semi-final and somebody will miss out and which team that will be, nobody knows. So, as a side, if India are talking about wanting to make an impact and getting to the same final, there is definitely no room for making a mistake, she elaborated. Anjum also pointed out that the women's game had evolved to a point where 200-run totals were now a baseline expectation rather than an exceptional achievement - a development that has also made predicting a winner harder than at any previous edition of the event. It should be - I won't say the closest. But I will say that because the teams have expanded and there is more (competition) from where we started, let's say in 2009, playing T20 cricket to now where we are in 2026 - I am hopeful that it becomes a little more competitive. The fact that 200 runs on the board is becoming a mandatory figure shows that you can't be resting on scoring 150-160 - gone are those days. So, that is a growth and progression in the women's game, which as well has been in the men's game. Whichever way you score, whether you hit sixes or fours or are running between the wickets - if the score line at the end of 20 overs is reading 200 or close to 200, then that means the game has obviously evolved in leaps and bounds. The WPLs impact on the Indian team selection has been visible by additions of Bharti Fulmali and Nandni Sharma, after the likes of Shreyanka Patil and N Sree Charani became established figures in the T20I set-up. But Anjum said that WPL intensity does not automatically translate into international readiness and urged patience with players making the step up. It's there and it's definitely highlighting a lot of talent which the country is producing. That is the biggest strength for India that a side like RCB has won a couple of titles, and Mumbai Indians has won as many titles too. So, all these players who keep coming back and are performing at that level and the new players who are making sure that when they step onto the park, they are there. The WPLs impact on the Indian team selection has been visible by additions of Bharti Fulmali and Nandni Sharma, after the likes of Shreyanka Patil and N Sree Charani became established figures in the T20I set-up. But Anjum said that WPL intensity does not automatically translate into international readiness and urged patience with players making the step up. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Everybody will not turn out to be like Charani, taking it like a duck to water. It will not happen like that. People will take time. If they take less time, brilliant. But international cricket does require a little bit of time, she concluded. Article Source: IANS
Kane Williamson retires from international cricket
New Zealand batter opts out of completing the ongoing Test series in England
Women's T20 WC: Chinelle Henry Experienced An Exacerbation Of A Previous Injury, Says CWI
T20 World Cup: West Indies vice-captain Chinelle Henry is being monitored by the team's medical staff after aggravating a previous injury during a Women's T20 World Cup warm-up match against Australia, Cricket West Indies (CWI) confirmed on Wednesday. Henry raised concern ahead of the tournament after being stretchered off the ground in a warm-up fixture following an awkward fall while trying to take a catch. The all-rounder had lost her footing as she went to take the catch, falling awkwardly and halting play briefly before being helped from the field. Providing an update on her condition, Cricket West Indies said in a statement: Chinelle Henry experienced an exacerbation of a previous injury and is currently being managed by the team's medical staff. Further updates will be provided as appropriate. The 30-year-old is an integral part of the West Indies squad and vice-captain of the team. Henry also brings a wealth of experience to the side having represented the Caribbean team in five previous Womens T20 World Cups. West Indies are preparing to launch their campaign in the global tournament and her fitness will be under keen observation in the days ahead. Providing an update on her condition, Cricket West Indies said in a statement: Chinelle Henry experienced an exacerbation of a previous injury and is currently being managed by the team's medical staff. Further updates will be provided as appropriate. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Australia were also again careful with the progression of Phoebe Litchfield, who sat out a second straight warm-up tie with awareness of a quad problem, the side adamant the left-hander is 100% for Saturday's tournament opener against South Africa at Old Trafford. Article Source: IANS
Afghanistan Premier League Set To Launch On December 27 In UAE
The Afghanistan Cricket Board: The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has announced that the inaugural edition of the Afghanistan Premier League (APL) will begin on December 27, 2026, marking a significant step in the country's cricketing journey. The T20 tournament will be hosted in the UAE and feature 5 franchises from the main cricketing areas of Afghanistan - Kabul, Kandahar, Balkh, Paktia and Nangarhar. The launch of the league follows Afghanistan's impressive emergence on the international stage in the past decade, the nation establishing itself as a potent force in global cricket, while individual Afghan players have risen through the ranks to become sought after entities in all major franchise leagues worldwide. The APL is expected to provide a big platform for the country's rising stars to ply their trade alongside and against experienced domestic and international professionals. It is also hoped the league will bolster the sport's infrastructure and player development prospects within the country. Hosting the tournament in the UAE will provide the ACB with the use of top-class infrastructure and facilities and help with the smooth running of the tournament. The UAE has provided a second home to Afghan cricket for a number of years, hosting multiple international matches and domestic tournaments. The introduction of the league coincides with Afghanistan's growing prominence in cricket, with the national side producing globally famous players and recording victories against some of the biggest cricketing nations, giving a whole new generation a sporting ideal. Speaking on the announcement of the league, Afghanistan Cricket Board chairman Mirwais Ashraf stated the competition was crucial to the future of the sport. The introduction of the league coincides with Afghanistan's growing prominence in cricket, with the national side producing globally famous players and recording victories against some of the biggest cricketing nations, giving a whole new generation a sporting ideal. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The APL is expected to bring some of Afghanistan's top players and other international talent together to add to the ever growing global T20 fixture list. Article Source: IANS
On T20I: Kayla Reyneke loves a laugh, but its her knack for closing out games that has been the highlight of her short international career so far. Twice in the space of two months, Kayla has turned what looked like lost causes into wins for South Africa and made it all look routine. On T20I debut against Pakistan in Potchefstroom, she walked in and hit 29 not out, including hitting a match-winning six. Later, in Christchurch, on ODI debut against New Zealand, she went one better: hitting two sixes in the final over to snatch a victory South Africa had no business claiming in the first place. That double finishing act made her the first woman to win Player of the Match on both T20I and ODI debuts. More than the stats and accolades, it was Kaylas demeanour which was more striking calm and uncluttered, as if she had rehearsed the execution of those moments a thousand times. Ask her how she stays ice-cool in jittery situations like the ones in Potchefstroom and Christchurch, Kayla, with nine T20I caps, insists theres no secret formula behind it. I really don't have any secrets. If you need to hit a six off the last ball, you need to hit a six off the last ball. You exclude everything - the noise, scoreboard, everything and you just focus on the ball and hit it. People always ask me about those moments. But I was just really focusing on the cricket ball. When it's two off one or six off one, I always practice that in power-hitting sessions. So for me, it's about how do you put yourself in that situation in practice, and how do you implement it or execute it in a game? I just wanted to smash the ball and luckily it came off, recalls Kayla in an exclusive conversation with IANS ahead of her first Womens T20 World Cup. Kaylas composure in acing pressure cooker situations isnt some innate gift. Its a skill she has engineered session by session through years of practice. I always put myself in pressure situations at training and scenario-based stuff. It will never fully come off 100 percent. But when it does, it's amazing and that's just how cricket works. One day you'll get a gun day. But the next day you'll just be grinding and grafting through it because that's cricket. It has its ups and downs. It's about staying in the moment and working as hard as you can. The philosophy extends to her training sessions, which are meant to be purposeful and organised around clarity of intent. With my batting, bowling and fielding, there needs to be a purpose in what you're doing. Going to a training session and going to a match are two different things. But my routine needs to stay the same. When I'm hitting balls, what do I want to get out of this session? With my bowling, is it variations, or is it my normal stuff to batters? There's always got to be something behind it. I think sometimes we make cricket so complicated. But at the end of the day, it's ourselves. You've just got to believe that we actually can do it. It's really not impossible. So it's quite simple, she added. That inner calm in Kayla was forged in the nets under Western Province coach and ex-South Africa player Claire Terblanche, and later hardened in the Under-19 setup under former Proteas cricketer Dinesha Devnarain. There, Kayla also grew into a leader, steering South Africa to the 2025 U19 Womens T20 World Cup final while bagging 11 wickets at 11.54. Those closing-over heroics on debut were simply the most visible proof of a temperament built long before. I've known coach Claire since I was 11 years old, so it's been a very long time - I think she's pretty tired of me now. But a lovely human being and has always been there for me. Then in the U19 space, I went under coach Dinesha. I haven't known her for as long, but working with her has been an absolute honour. They both have a lot of cricket knowledge and it's lovely to work with both of them. Before cricket took over, Kayla had other sporting pursuits. At high school she dabbled in hockey, but it was javelin throw where she excelled more. In 2019, at just 14, she won the South African age-group title with a throw of 45.97 metres. But by grade 10, though, the choice became unavoidable. Competing in Javelin throw had left her with injuries, including to the lower back, and that made the decision easier than it might have been - cricket, with its wider horizon, won for Kayla. Javelin gave me a lot of injuries. Whereas in cricket, yes, there are still injuries. But there are a lot of pros to it. You play with people. You get to meet new friends. You get to see the world. I just continued to follow my love for the game and made that decision at 16. The pivot to off-spin bowling accidentally happened for Kayla. She began as a pace bowler I didn't bowl fast at all, but I felt very fast at that time she says with a chuckle. One day, fooling around in a net session, Kayla started experimenting with off-spin bowling and Claire told her to go ahead with it. Ever since then I've just been bowling off-spin and it's been helping a lot. I'm obviously still learning about my bowling and my batting. But I really want to up my skill when it comes to off-spin. Just trying to up-skill every day. Knowing about her call-up to the Proteas squad was as unscripted as anything else in Kaylas story. She was in the middle of an afternoon nap when her phone rang from an unknown number it was of head coach Mandla Mashimbayi. I was a bit like a deurmekaar - that's an Afrikaans saying, means all over the place. I answered the phone and it was Coach Mandla, who just told me I was part of the Pakistan series. Even before that, we'd had a high-performance camp and I was prepping for the domestic season. I was really zoning in especially with my batting and then just like that, a phone call, and things changed ridiculously. On the cusp of her T20 World Cup debut, where she and Nadine de Klerk will handle finishing duties, Kayla is still catching up with the speed of how her life has reshaped in 2026. Crazy, actually. It's crazy how things can change in a couple of months. I always say that. So I'm just trying to ride this wave as much as possible and enjoy every moment and really just let it sink in. If you asked me a year ago how I would be sitting here, I would have told you you'd be lying to me. The Proteas environment is built precisely on the values Kayla had already instilled in herself - hard work without noise, and purpose without panic. Playing with the people that I've looked up to since I was very young - you never fully know what's going on in the squad when you're not there. Getting to know Chloe, Sune, Kappie - sharing a dressing room with them is amazing. You can joke around and all that. But when it comes to work, they are really hardworking people. When you're not doing something on a day, you feel really bad. Everybody wants to work as hard as the person next to them. That's what really motivates me. But I've also been having a lot of fun even off the cricket field - going for coffee runs, a bit of banter. Really just enjoying it, she said. The returning Dane van Niekerk and Shabnim Ismail, who stepped back from international cricket in 2023, have added yet another dimension to a group that feels close to its best. They're both really hardworking people. Turning up and zoning in on how their work needs to be done - that motivates me to always give my best. Having them back in the space is really amazing. To play and hopefully take the field with them is something I've dreamt of. Even off the cricket field, they're lovely people. Really good to have them back, added Kayla. England is unfamiliar territory, so is a 12-team Womens T20 World Cup. Yet Kaylas mantra for it is delight, not caution. Man, oh my word - cricket is our job, but if you think about it, it's really a fun job that we have. Not a lot of people can say that. Yes, we do a job we love, but we also get to see the world - that's crazy. We can have a lot of banter in between, but when it comes to work, we work and there's nothing wrong with that. It's my first time in the UK. It's such a privilege to be here. It's my first World Cup also. So it's crazy to think about. Her parents are not in England to see her in action, but after long days and big matches, Kayla chats with them every single day. Unfortunately not. Hopefully, in the future, but I would have loved to have them here. They've been my support system throughout the years for very long. Always having them on my side, it's really special. After having a long day, a training or a match, they are my go-to people that I can just jump on a call and say, Hello, mum, hello, dad. This is what happened and etc. They are my go-to people and I'll be forever grateful for that. Her parents are not in England to see her in action, but after long days and big matches, Kayla chats with them every single day. Unfortunately not. Hopefully, in the future, but I would have loved to have them here. They've been my support system throughout the years for very long. Also Read: Live Cricket Score As she steps onto the big stage, Kayla Reyneke carries both the unknown factor and an innate calmness under fire - a combination that could unsettle opponents in this tournament. South Africa are banking on that if they are to finally cross the line and lift that elusive silverware. Article Source: IANS
Gurnoor's Bounce, Ishan's Versatility Fit India's 2027 World Cup Plans: Irfan Pathan
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan believes the selectors have already started planning for the Men's Cricket World Cup 2027 in South Africa, with the inclusion of players capable of thriving in conditions that offer pace, bounce and movement. Speaking ahead of India's first ODI against Afghanistan, Pathan said the selection of tall left-arm pacer Gurnoor Brar reflects the team's long-term vision for the World Cup in South Africa. Gurnoor Brar has been selected because the Indian management wants a bowler who can exploit the pace and bounce expected on South African pitches in the 2027 World Cup, Pathan told Jio Hotstar. Standing at 6 feet 5 inches, he gets natural extra bounce. That will be a big advantage in those conditions, he added. Pathan also highlighted the importance of having batters who can counter steep bounce and identified Ishan Kishan as a valuable multi-dimensional option in the ODI setup. Along with good bowlers, you also need batters who can handle bounce. Ishan Kishan fits that role perfectly. He plays the short ball well, scores square of the wicket, and can serve as a backup opener, a backup at number three behind Virat, and a backup wicketkeeper, he said. The former India all-rounder added that the team management must focus on developing fast-bowling all-rounders, whom he believes will play a decisive role in South African conditions. I will be watching how many all-rounders get opportunities because fast-bowling all-rounders will be crucial in South Africa. Hence, I want to see Nitish Kumar Reddy get chances, Pathan said He also backed Shivam Dube to be given an extended run in the ODI format after impressing in T20 internationals. Shivam Dube has done well in T20Is, and now is the time to bring him into ODIs as well. They need as many opportunities as possible in the lead-up to the World Cup, he added. On Rishabh Pant, Pathan urged selectors not to shut the door on the dynamic left-hander despite his recent struggles in white-ball cricket. My suggestion to the selectors is not to completely ignore him. Yes, he has fallen behind in white-ball cricket. His form has not been great. But look at Ishan Kishan. He was out of the team too, but he used that as motivation, Pathan said. On Rishabh Pant, Pathan urged selectors not to shut the door on the dynamic left-hander despite his recent struggles in white-ball cricket. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With less than two years remaining for the 2027 World Cup, India will aim to test their squad depth and options in the Afghanistan series, which will commence on Saturday. Article Source: IANS
From Kulcha Stall To Team India: Jalandhars Arjun Rajput Earns India U-19 Call-up For Sri Lanka Tour
Harbhajan Singh Cricket Academy: A dream nurtured in the narrow lanes of Ram Nagar and backed by years of sacrifice has finally come true for young cricketer Arjun Rajput, who has been selected in the Indian Under-19 squad for next months tour of Sri Lanka. The left-handed batter and right-arm off-spinner will don the India jersey for the first time when the team departs for Sri Lanka on July 4, marking a major milestone in a journey defined by perseverance and hard work. Arjun comes from a modest family background. His father, Hoti Ram, earns a living by making kulchas and working at a bakery, ensuring that his son could continue pursuing cricket despite financial constraints Speaking after the announcement of the squad, Arjun expressed his pride at getting the opportunity to represent the country. I am very happy and proud to be at this level. I am very happy that we are playing our first match in Sri Lanka. I am very proud of it. We will represent our country, and we will try our best to win all the matches and perform well, he told reporters. The youngster credited his family and mentors for helping him stay focused through difficult times. My father, mother and brother always supported me. Whenever I used to feel down, they backed me and motivated me. My coaches like Vikram Sidhu and Harbhajan Academy supported me a lot, Arjun said. For Hoti Ram, the selection is the reward for years of belief in his sons talent. I have been making kulchas for many years. Arjun has been playing cricket since the age of five years. He is very talented and hardworking. I came to know about the selection in the morning, and it is a very good feeling, he said. His dream has been fulfilled, and it is a very special moment for us, he added. Arjun began his cricketing journey at the Harbhajan Singh Cricket Academy, where he honed his skills during his formative years. Even after facing several challenges, he continued to progress under the guidance of coach Vikram Sidhu. His dream has been fulfilled, and it is a very special moment for us, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The white-ball leg of the tour kicks off on July 4 in Hambantota, which will host all three one-day matches. Following the limited-overs series, the team will transition to red-ball cricket for two multi-day matches. The first multi-day game is slated to be played in Galle from July 13 to 16, while the final fixture of the tour will take place in Colombo from July 20 to 23. Article Source: IANS
'India Will Need Rohit And Virat's Qualities To Win The World Cup': Irfan Pathan
ODI World Cup: Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has underlined the importance of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli ahead of India's first ODI against Afghanistan, saying the experienced duo will be central to the team's chances in the upcoming ODI World Cup in South Africa. Pathan praised Rohit's ability to counter fast bowling in challenging overseas conditions and described Virat as the ideal batter to anchor India's innings from the No.3 position. Rohit Sharma's biggest strength is his ability to handle short-pitched bowling. He has exceptional timing and gets into position early. In South Africa, where bowlers get both swing and extra bounce, Rohit is the ideal batter to punish anything short, Pathan told Jio Hotstar The former left-arm pacer also highlighted Kohli's unmatched consistency in the 50-over format and his ability to guide the innings under pressure. Coming to Virat Kohli, he brings immense experience to the middle order. In ODIs, no one does it better than him. Batting at number three, his records speak for themselves. If India lose an early wicket, he is the man to rebuild the innings, he said. He loves batting long, and when it comes to chasing, he is the best in the world. India will need both these qualities of Rohit and Virat if they are to win the World Cup in South Africa, he added. Pathan also weighed in on India's wicketkeeping options, backing KL Rahul as the team's first-choice wicketkeeper-batter in ODIs. KL Rahul is India's first-choice wicketkeeper-batsman in ODIs. He has done well at numbers five and six. He is versatile, Pathan said. He added that Ishan Kishan's inclusion as a backup wicketkeeper was a sensible move due to his ability to bat higher up the order and handle pace effectively. As a backup, the selectors have brought in Ishan Kishan. Ishan can bat higher up the order and plays the short ball well square of the wicket. That is a smart selection. Pathan further stated that Sanju Samson remains a strong contender for opportunities in the middle order As a backup, the selectors have brought in Ishan Kishan. Ishan can bat higher up the order and plays the short ball well square of the wicket. That is a smart selection. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Meanwhile, India will shift their focus from Tests to ODIs as they start a three-match ODI series against Afghanistan at HPCA in Dharamshala on Saturday. Article Source: IANS
Maybe Virender Sehwag: South African pace great Dale Steyn believes the fearless brand of cricket displayed by today's young stars is not merely a product of talent, but the result of a significant cultural shift in how the game is coached, analysed and discussed. Speaking about the emergence of attacking young batters such as Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Dewald Brevis and Tristan Stubbs, Steyn said modern cricketers are benefiting from an environment that is far more accepting of failure than previous generations experienced. Were seeing a good combination of current coaches who are ex-players of the current game, are more understanding of failure. And in 2020, there's a lot of failure. You know, you fail way more than you succeed. And every now and then you have one or two seasons where you blow the lights out and you do extremely well, Steyn told IANS in an interaction facilitated by SA20 in the lead-up to Season 5. According to Steyn, one of the biggest changes has been the willingness of coaches and commentators to embrace the game's evolution rather than criticise players for taking risks. And we're not sitting as commentators or as coaches sitting there saying, oh, we want to see the economy rates of bowlers coming down because the game is evolving. And I think that's what commentators and coaches of yesteryear would have done, you know. That has allowed a fearless brand of cricket. Because a player is now not scared that if he plays a bad shot, he's going to be abused on TV. Or he's going to have a coach say to him, that was a bad shot. Whereas maybe, call it 10 years ago, that may have been the case, he opined. Steyn said this shift in mindset has created the freedom for young players to express themselves without fear of criticism We just understand that that's the way that the game is evolving. And I think that is, again, that relationship between coaches, between commentators, between cricket pundits and the player has given players the freedom to express themselves and play the way that they want to play. It's an open playing field right now, he said. The former fast bowler pointed to teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi as an example of the confidence modern players now possess. That's why we see guys like Sooryavanshi walking out there and first ball hitting it for six. If you cast your mind back 10 or 15 years ago, there weren't many players that would do that. There was a handful of players that would do that. Sanath Jayasuriya may have been somebody that would do that as an opening batter? Maybe Virender Sehwag. But, you know, they were a novelty, he mentioned. Steyn believes young players are no longer judged as harshly for failing while playing aggressively, which has encouraged innovation across the game. It wasn't an outlier. It wasn't something that happened on a day-to-day basis. And if they did fail, they would say, oh, that's the way that they play. But if a new player tried that, they would be abused. We don't do that anymore, he added. The changing mindset is not limited to batters. Steyn explained that bowlers, too, have become more accepting of risk in pursuit of wickets rather than merely trying to contain runs. I think that relationship has really allowed a lot of players the freedom to breathe. They can just go, oh, okay, cool. I can go out there and do that. And that's from a batting point of view. From a bowling point of view, bowlers are not scared of going for 20 runs an over or 15 runs an over. They are trying to take wickets. They are trying to break the game open. That is their main goal. If you go for 15 runs and over, take a wicket. And that's cool. You know, there used to be a chain of thought that, oh, if I'm going at 10 and over, I'm getting smashed. No. If you're bowling four overs for 40, you've done well. You've done incredibly well. Maybe try and pick up a couple wickets to really break the game open. But you're doing incredibly well, he expressed. While discussing modern batting, Steyn also reserved special praise for Virat Kohli, citing the Indian star's longevity and relentless desire to improve. Look, both. Let's just hop on the latter right now, which is Virat Kohli. I think his ability to sustain, his mental approach to the game, stay fresh, and stay wanting to continue to perform says a lot about him. He's got a lot of self-drive, which is something that I think all of us cricketers had in my era. That's the only thing that we had. We just wanted to get better every single year, he stated. For Steyn, the evolution of cricket's language, analysis and mindset has created an environment where players can push boundaries without fear, helping take the sport to new heights. Look, both. Let's just hop on the latter right now, which is Virat Kohli. I think his ability to sustain, his mental approach to the game, stay fresh, and stay wanting to continue to perform says a lot about him. He's got a lot of self-drive, which is something that I think all of us cricketers had in my era. That's the only thing that we had. We just wanted to get better every single year, he stated. Also Read: Live Cricket Score And that allows players, I think, to perform to the best of their ability and take the game to new heights. And that's making the game more exciting. That's making the game worthy of watching it, whether it be on your couch at home or going to the ground to go and watch it. So everyone's working together to see this game go and elevate to another level. I think we're all on the right path right now, Steyn concluded. Article Source: IANS
Good To Know Ive Helped Modern-day Pacers Get South Africa To A Wonderful Place: Dale Steyn
Sunrisers Eastern Cape: South African pace great Dale Steyn believes one of the most rewarding aspects of his post-playing career has been watching the next generation of fast bowlers flourish on the international stage, with players such as Marco Jansen and Ottniel Baartman carrying forward many of the principles that defined his own success. Having transitioned into coaching roles after retirement, including a stint as bowling coach of Sunrisers Eastern Cape in the SA20, Steyn said seeing bowlers he has worked with rise through the ranks has been particularly satisfying. For me, the pleasure is having trained and worked with two guys that are right up there in terms of the highest wicket-takers, in Marco Jansen and Ottniel Baartman, and watched their rise in South African colours. They've gone on to play in leagues around the world. They've played in World Cup finals in Barbados and World Cup semifinals, Steyn told IANS in an interaction facilitated by SA20 in the lead-up to Season 5. Reflecting on their growth and success, Steyn admitted it gives him a sense of pride to know he has played a role in their development. So that's a good thing for me to know, that I've helped them somewhat get South Africa to a wonderful place and get them recognised around the world, he stated. Steyn explained that while he shares his experiences and methods with young bowlers, his coaching philosophy is built around helping players develop their own identities rather than simply replicating what he achieved in his playing days. I was bowling coach of the Sunrisers Eastern Cape. And a lot of my coaching philosophy was obviously saying what I would do but then still allowing the players enough room to bring their personal side into it. Because, look, I'm not the one that's on the field anymore, he mentioned. The former fast bowler believes that despite cricket's evolution, the fundamentals that made him successful continue to be effective in the modern game. He pointed to several current South African quicks who have thrived by focusing on execution rather than relying solely on variations. If I was playing, I still think that I'd look at somebody like KG (Kagiso) Rabada. I'd look at somebody like Marco Jansen, Anrich Nortje. These are bowlers that do really, really well in the SA20. And I lined myself up with guys that I'd do a very similar thing with, the 42-year-old stated. Steyn noted that his own approach was relatively uncomplicated, centred on consistency and control as he said, I didn't have a great variety of variations. I had one or two different slower balls. I had a good yorker. I had a good bouncer. And I landed the ball in the right area for the most period of time. According to Steyn, Jansen and Baartman are among the bowlers who best embody that philosophy in contemporary cricket. And Marco Jansen has epitomised that throughout the SA20, which is why he's one of the leading wicket-takers, as is somebody like Ottniel Baartman. So I wouldn't have strayed far away from what they do because that's what I did. And I've coached them to do the same kind of thing, he opined. According to Steyn, Jansen and Baartman are among the bowlers who best embody that philosophy in contemporary cricket. Also Read: Live Cricket Score When asked if a young Dale Steyn would thrive in today's game as he did in his prime or would he need to adapt to the demands of modern cricket, the pace legend said, No, I would have been fine. I would have done fine. If I played the modern-day game, I would have done okay. Article Source: IANS
T20 World Cup: Former Indian wicketkeeper batter Dinesh Karthik believes that the opening combination of Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma could prove to be one of the teams biggest weapons at the ICC Womens T20 World Cup 2026, which will commence on Friday. With the tournament set to begin later this month, Karthik believes Indias ability to put opposition teams under pressure from the very first ball makes them a dangerous side in the shortest format. Indias biggest strength is that they can put teams under pressure from ball one. Smriti brings stability, Shafali brings explosiveness, and when those two get going together, they can take a game away in the Powerplay itself, Karthik told Jio Hotstar. The former India cricketer credited the opening duo for playing a key role in Indias success in white-ball cricket over recent years, particularly in the T20 format. Their partnership has been vital and a massive reason for Indias performance in limited-overs cricket in recent times, more importantly in T20 cricket and going into a T20 World Cup, thats a massive advantage to have, he added. Former New Zealand fast bowler Simon Doull also identified Indias batting depth as a major factor behind their hopes of lifting the trophy. Doull pointed to the flexibility of Indias top order and the impact of wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh in the middle and death overs. What makes this Indian batting unit dangerous is that the top four can set the platform in different ways, depending on the conditions and the situation. If the top four are able to set the game up, then you have a player like Richa coming in when bowlers are already under pressure, and shes one of the few players in the world who can turn a game on its head, Doull said. He further highlighted Richas match-winning contributions during Indias recent ICC Womens ODI World Cup triumph. Thats the kind of finishing power that wins World Cups. Once again going back to their ODI World Cup win, whether it was the South Africa game or the semi-final against Australia, the impetus Richa provided set her team up in a number of games, he added. He further highlighted Richas match-winning contributions during Indias recent ICC Womens ODI World Cup triumph. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India has never won the Women's T20 WC, and they will begin their campaign on June 14 against Pakistan at Birmingham. Article Source: IANS
HM Amit Shah Mourns The Death Of Indian Shooting Legend Jaspal Rana
Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami: Home Minister Amit Shah has expressed his grief on the sudden demise of Jaspal Rana and said the passing of the legendary shooter and coach is an irreparable loss to the nation. Rana, a multi-time Asian Games gold medallist who later transitioned into one of India's most successful high-performance coaches, passed away on Friday at the age of 49, leaving the entire Indian sporting fraternity in deep shock. Deeply saddened by the demise of legendary sportsperson Jaspal Rana Ji. He dedicated his life to establishing Indias indomitable mettle in shooting by winning international honours for the nation and by nurturing young shooters as a coach. Rana Jis passing is an irreparable loss to the nation. At this moment of grief, I extend heartfelt condolences to his family and millions of admirers, Amit Shah posted on X. Awarded the Arjuna Award in 1994 and the Padma Shri in 1997 for his contributions to Indian sports, Rana was a trailblazer for Indian shooting in the 1990s. He dominated the pistol events at the Commonwealth Games and the Asian Games, famously winning gold medals at the 1994 Hiroshima and 2006 Doha Asian Games. After hanging up his gun, Rana dedicated his life to coaching, becoming the architect behind Indias modern pistol shooting revolution. He mentored several world-class shooters, most notably Olympic medal winner Manu Bhaker, guiding her to podium finishes on the global stage, which includes the historic double bronze medal finish at Paris Olympics 2024. Recognised for his excellence in coaching, Rana received the Dronacharya Award in 2020, India's highest honour for sports coaching. Condolences have been pouring in from across the sporting fraternity and political spectrum as Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami, India Olympic Assocation chief PT Usha and Indian men's cricket team head coach Gautam Gambhir paid tribute to the renowned coach. Saddened by the devastating news of our shooting champion Jaspal Rana ji. He brought innumerable laurels to our country, first as an athlete & then by mentoring our Olympic champions. We have lost a wonderful person. May his family find strength to bear this loss! PT Usha posted on X. Uttarakhand CM Dhami said, The news of the sudden demise of Shri Jaspal Rana Jithe son of the sacred land of Uttarakhand, recipient of the Padma Shri award, and the pride of Indian shootingis deeply painful. His extraordinary contribution to the field of shooting, historic achievements, and the inspiration he provided to young athletes made India proud on the global stage. His personality and work will always remain a source of inspiration for generations to come. His passing is an irreparable loss to the sports world, Uttarakhand, and the entire nation. I pray to God to grant eternal peace to the departed holy soul at His holy feet and to give strength to the grieving family members, well-wishers, and countless fans to bear this immense sorrow. His extraordinary contribution to the field of shooting, historic achievements, and the inspiration he provided to young athletes made India proud on the global stage. His personality and work will always remain a source of inspiration for generations to come. His passing is an irreparable loss to the sports world, Uttarakhand, and the entire nation. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Five-time Olympian and Beijing Olympic gold medallist rifle shooter Abhinav Bindra said, Heartbroken to hear about Jaspal Ranas passing. Jaspal was my teammate and, in many ways, part of a generation that helped shape Indian shooting. He was intense, gifted, and carried the pride of the country every time he stepped onto the range. This is a huge loss for our sport. My deepest condolences to his family, friends, students and everyone whose life he touched. Article Source: IANS
'Huge loss': Renowned Indian pistol shooter and coach Jaspal Rana passes away at 49
Rana was awarded the Arjuna Award in 1994 and the Padma Shri in 1997 for his contributions to Indian shooting. Recognised for his excellence in coaching, Rana received the Dronacharya Award in 2020, India's highest honour for sports coaching.
FIFA WC: When And Where To Watch USA Vs Paraguay, Know All Details
FIFA World Cup: Co-hosts USA usher in the second World Cup on home soil with their Group D opener against Paraguay on Saturday (IST). The two sides are familiar foes, with Mauricio Pochettino's men securing a 2-1 victory in Chester, Pennsylvania, in November. Paraguay, who are making their first World Cup appearance since South Africa 2010, qualified for the global finals with a sixth-place finish in CONMEBOL qualifying, with some eye-catching victories on the way. History was made when the USA and Paraguay locked horns at the inaugural global showpiece in 1930, the sole occasion the two sides have met in the global finals. How to watch USA vs Paraguay live in India Live streaming and live telecast of the FIFA World Cup 2026 football matches will be available on the Zee5 platform and app in India. Subscription will be needed. Live telecast of the FIFA World Cup 2026 will be available on the Unite8 Sports 1, Unite8 Sports 1 HD, Unite8 Sports 2, and Unite8 Sports 2 HD TV channels in India. Key details Date and kick-off time: Friday, June 12, 6:30 AM (IST). Venue: Los Angeles Stadium (LA) Referee: Danny Desmond Makkelie Squads USA Goalkeepers: Chris Brady, Matt Freese, Matt Turner Defenders: Max Arfsten, Sergio Dest, Alex Freeman, Mark McKenzie, Tim Ream, Chris Richards, Antonee Robinson, Miles Robinson, Joe Scally, Auston Trusty Midfielders: Tyler Adams, Sebastian Berhalter, Weston McKennie, Gio Reyna, Cristian Roldan, Malik Tillman Forwards: Brenden Aaronson, Folarin Balogun, Ricardo Pepi, Christian Pulisic, Tim Weah, Haji Wright, Alex Zendejas Paraguay Goalkeepers: Gatito Fernandez, Orlando Gill, Gaston Olveira Defenders: Gustavo Gomez, Junior Alonso, Fabian Balbuena, Omar Alderete, Juan Jose Caceres, Gustavo Velazquez, Jose Canale, Alexandro Maidana Goalkeepers: Gatito Fernandez, Orlando Gill, Gaston Olveira Also Read: Live Cricket Score Forwards: Antonio Sanabria, Julio Enciso, Gabriel Avalos, Axl Arce, Isidro Pitta, Gustavo Caballero Article Source: IANS
Jaspal Rana: The Fearless Marksman Who Always Aimed For Excellence
During Manu Bhaker: His motto was simple: hit the 10-ring, stay focused, and win medals. That philosophy defined the life and career of Jaspal Rana, one of Indias greatest shooters and most influential mentors, who passed away on Friday, leaving the shooting fraternity in mourning. For Indian shooting, Rana was much more than a champion athlete. He was a mentor, a teacher, a reformer and a fearless voice who never hesitated to speak his mind for the betterment of the sport. Whether it was guiding young shooters, questioning administrative decisions or explaining the finer points of the game, Rana approached everything with the same intensity and honesty that made him a legend on the range. Every shooting enthusiast knew Jaspal Rana. In recent years, he became widely recognised as one of the key figures behind the success of Indian shooter Manu Bhaker, whose Olympic medal-winning performances brought glory to the country. His contribution to nurturing talent and building a winning culture ensured that his influence extended far beyond his own competitive achievements. Those who watched Rana closely during the Paris Olympics witnessed the qualities that defined him as a coach. During Manu Bhakers event, he stood quietly behind the firing line, notebook in hand, observing every shot with complete concentration. Even in one of the biggest moments of Indian shooting, the seriousness on his face revealed a coach focused not on the occasion but on performance. When IANS asked him how he viewed Manus display, his response was characteristically brief: Can do much better. There was no room for complacency, even after a strong performance. Later, when Manu secured her historic bronze medal and journalists approached him for a reaction, Rana once again turned the spotlight away from himself. Speak to Manu, she earned this day, he said before walking away. In those few words lay the essence of Jaspal Rana, demanding excellence from his athletes while never seeking credit for their success. Rana was also known for his willingness to call out shortcomings whenever he saw them. He believed that problems should be addressed openly, regardless of who was responsible. Even when it involved top officials of the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI), he never shied away from expressing his views. For him, silence was never an option when the future of Indian shooting was at stake. Ahead of the Paris Olympics, IANS had the opportunity to speak to Rana in an interview that later went viral. The reason was simple: he spoke with conviction about what India needed to do to consistently win medals in shooting and the changes required to strengthen the system. There was no diplomacy, no hesitation only an unwavering desire to see Indian shooters succeed on the biggest stage. The spirit of kuch kar dikhane ka jazba was always visible in him. As a shooter, he pursued excellence relentlessly. As a coach, he pushed athletes to unlock their potential. As a mentor, he inspired confidence. And as a stakeholder in Indian shooting, he demanded accountability and higher standards. Beyond the range, Rana shared a special bond with journalists covering the sport. He was always willing to explain complex rules, scoring formats and evolving points systems, helping reporters better understand and communicate the nuances of shooting to the public. His accessibility and knowledge made him a trusted source and a valued friend of the media. His passing leaves a void that will be difficult to fill. Indian shooting has lost one of its finest ambassadors, athletes have lost a mentor, and sports journalism has lost a knowledgeable guide. But Jaspal Ranas legacy will live on, in the champions he helped create, in the medals won by shooters he inspired, and in the fearless honesty with which he served the sport. His passing leaves a void that will be difficult to fill. Indian shooting has lost one of its finest ambassadors, athletes have lost a mentor, and sports journalism has lost a knowledgeable guide. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The Paris Olympics anecdote fits naturally in the middle of the story because it shows, rather than tells, the values that defined Jaspal Rana throughout his life: relentless pursuit of improvement, attention to detail, and an unwillingness to take credit away from his athletes. Article Source: IANS
Holder, Joseph set up victory as West Indies go 1-0 up
Sri Lanka scored just 147 but gave WI a scare, before Hope's 65* led the chase
Devonshire, Patel and Sharp earn New Zealand central contracts for 2026-27 season
The trio have replaced Bates, Down and Tahuhu on the contract list with Devine also absent from the group
Sri Lanka opt to bat against West Indies at dry Sabina Park
There was some drizzle around at the toss and there is rain forecast for later in the evening
Sciver-Brunt: 'Pressure is a privilege' for England's World Cup homecoming
England captain acknowledges success of rugby and football counterparts as hosts prepare for Sri Lanka challenge
Unforgettable Win! BCB Hails Bangladesh's Historic ODI Series Win Over Aussies
The Bangladesh Cricket Board: The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) was effusive in praise for their men's team after it romped to a historic ODI series victory against the five-time World Champions by taking an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series in Mirpur, Dhaka, on Thursday. Unforgettable Win! Bangladesh defeat Australia and clinch the ODI series! The Tigers roar loud at home! BCB said in a post on X, formerly Twitter. A brilliant bowling effort saw Australia reduced to 0/3 at the end of the second over and helped hosts Bangladesh stun the visitors in the rain-shortened second ODI by five wickets via DLS method at the Shere Bangla National Stadium on Thursday. After Australia won the toss and elected to bat first in a match reduced to 42-overs-a-side following a rain interruption, Taskin Ahmed and Mustafizur Rahman dismantled Australias top order in a remarkable opening spell, removing Matthew Short, Cooper Connolly, and Matt Renshaw, all without scoring, with Australia yet to open their account. Australia managed to score a paltry 187/8 in 42 overs before Bangladesh chased down the rain-adjusted target of 192 for the loss of five wickets for a comprehensive victory. Australia were left reeling almost immediately, collapsing to 0 for 3 in one of the most extraordinary starts in ODI cricket. Taskin removed Matthew Short for a duck for the third consecutive innings, while Mustafizur struck twice in a devastating new-ball burst. The tourists eventually recovered thanks to a 103-run seventh-wicket partnership between Marnus Labuschagne and Xavier Bartlett. Initially, skipper Josh Inglis scored 34 off 38 balls to halt the slump, with Cameron Green (25) also making a vital contribution. Labuschagne then took over, scoring a brilliant unbeaten 55 off 85 balls, hitting three boundaries, while Bartlett struck four boundaries and two sixes in his 48-ball 52, his maiden ODI half-century, to help the Aussies recover to post a modest total. Mustafizur finished with 3-33, while Taskin ended with 3-27, his late breakthroughs effectively tilting the DLS equation in Bangladeshs favour after a long rain interruption. Bangladesh's chase started on a poor note as Bartlett made an immediate impact with the ball, beating the bat and briefly lifting Australias hopes. Bangladesh lost early wickets as Tanzid Hasan fell cheaply and Najmul Hossain Shanto survived a close lbw review. Soumya Sarkar (42) had earlier provided momentum with crisp strokeplay, striking boundaries square of the wicket and clearing the ropes over long-on. Shanto (42) matched him briefly before Bangladeshs innings wobbled through a cluster of dismissals, including Litton Das and Mosaddek Hossain, both falling after promising starts. Though at 44 for 5, the chase still required composure, Towhid Hridoy (40 not out) along with captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz (20 not out) steadied the innings despite suffering a blow to the head, steadied the innings. Hridoy accelerated the scoring rate decisively, finishing the contest with a hook for six followed by a pulled boundary, before Miraz sealed victory with another aggressive hook. The win gave Bangladesh an unbeatable 2-0 lead in the three-match ODI series. Hridoy accelerated the scoring rate decisively, finishing the contest with a hook for six followed by a pulled boundary, before Miraz sealed victory with another aggressive hook. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Australia 187/8 in 42 overs (Marnus Labuschagne 55 not out, Xavier Bartlett 52, Josh Inglis 34; Taskin Ahmed 3-33, Mustafizur Rahman 3-27, Tanvir Islam 2-45) lost to Bangladesh 195/5 in 35 overs (Soumya Sarkar 42, Towhid Hridoy 40 not out, Najmul Hossain Shanto 41; Xavier Bartlett 1-23, Matt Renshaw 1-29) by five wickets via DLS method Article Source: IANS
Jharkhand T20 League: Chota Nagpur Royals And Ranchi Titans Emerge Victorious On Day 2
Jharkhand T20 Cricket League: Chota Nagpur Royals and Ranchi Titans secured decisive victories on the second day of the Jharkhand T20 Cricket League 2026 at the JSCA International Stadium Complex in Ranchi on Thursday. The Royals claimed a dominant 10-wicket win via the DLS method in a rain-curtailed opener, while the Titans defended a massive total to win by 42 runs. In a rain-interrupted first match of the day, Dhanbad Diamonds posted 63/2 in 7 overs before heavy showers halted the play. Aryaman Sen anchored the innings with an unbeaten 31* off 20 balls, supported by Aditya Singhs 24* off 16 balls. For the Royals, Ritwik M Pathak (1/12) and Suprieyo Chakraborty (1/16) picked up a wicket each. Following the delay, the Chota Nagpur Royals were set a revised DLS target of 65 runs in 5 overs. Openers Virat Singh (38* off 15 balls) and MD Nazim Siddiqui (23* off 11 balls) chased down the target effortlessly, reaching 65/0 in just 4.2 overs to seal a comprehensive 10-wicket victory. Virat Singh was awarded the player of the match. In the second match of the day, Ranchi Titans were put into bat and posted a formidable 227/5. Openers Shikhar Mohan and Aryan Hudda gave the team a blistering start, putting on 93 runs in 7.4 overs before Aryan Hudda fell for 40 off 16 balls. Player of the match, Shikhar Mohan, top-scored with a brilliant 90 off 48 balls, while Shrestha contributed a rapid 57 off 31 balls. Skipper Rajandeep Singh added a late cameo of 21 off 12 balls. Following the delay, the Chota Nagpur Royals were set a revised DLS target of 65 runs in 5 overs. Openers Virat Singh (38* off 15 balls) and MD Nazim Siddiqui (23* off 11 balls) chased down the target effortlessly, reaching 65/0 in just 4.2 overs to seal a comprehensive 10-wicket victory. Virat Singh was awarded the player of the match. Also Read: Live Cricket Score For Ranchi Titans, Prince Anurag Murmu led the bowling attack with impressive figures of 3/26, helping his team secure a 42-run victory in the match. Article Source: IANS
Aakash Tigers Mumbai Western Suburbs: Defending champions MSC Maratha Royals stormed into the final of the T20 Mumbai League 2026 with a three-wicket victory over North Mumbai Panthers in the second semifinal at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Thursday. Tushar Deshpande starred with the ball, returning impressive figures of 4/21 to help bundle out the Ajinkya Rahane-led Panthers for 148 in their allotted 20 overs. In reply, the Maratha Royals chased down the target with composure, thanks to a match-winning, unbeaten knock of 62 off 49 balls from Chinmay Sutar. Holding his nerve in the thrilling chase, Sutar guided the defending champions into their second successive final. MSC Maratha Royals will now take on Arcs Andheri in the title clash on Saturday, starting at 7 PM. Earlier in the day, skipper Shivam Dube led from the front with a match-winning unbeaten knock as Arcs Andheri stormed into the final with a five-wicket victory over Aakash Tigers Mumbai Western Suburbs in the first semi-final at the same venue. After producing a disciplined bowling display to restrict the Tigers to 150/7, Andheri overcame a few hiccups in the chase before Dube's late fireworks guided them home with nine balls to spare. Chasing 151, Andheri suffered an early setback when Musheer Khan was dismissed for a duck with just one run on the board. Opener Divyaansh Sksena and Arjun Tendulkar then steadied the innings with a 41-run partnership for the second wicket. However, Shams Mulani struck twice to swing the momentum back in favour of the Tigers, first removing Tendulkar (13) before dismissing the well-set Sksena for a brisk 34 off 16 balls, an innings featuring six fours and a six. Prasad Pawar (26) and Pragnesh Kanpillewar (18) attempted to rebuild the chase with a valuable 40-run stand for the fourth wicket. Just as Andheri looked to be taking control, Ajit Yadav delivered a crucial double blow in the 13th over, dismissing both batters and reducing Andheri to 92/5. With the chase hanging in the balance, Dube took charge. The Andheri skipper stitched together an unbroken 59-run partnership with Gaurav Jathar (11 not out) and finished unbeaten on 45 off just 26 deliveries, smashing five sixes and a four to seal his side's place in the final. Opting to bat first, Tigers skipper Sarfaraz Khan provided an aggressive start with a 34-run knock off 17 balls, including six fours and a six. Opener Jay Bista added 35 off 33 deliveries, while Harsh Rane (13) and Ajit Yadav (12) chipped in with useful contributions. However, the Tigers struggled to build substantial partnerships in the middle overs, with Saksham Parashar falling for a duck and the rest of the batting order failing to accelerate. For Andheri, Ashutosh Ghagre was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 2/21, while Tendulkar, Dube, Ajay Mishra, Musheer, and Prasun Singh claimed a wicket apiece. Brief scores: For Andheri, Ashutosh Ghagre was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 2/21, while Tendulkar, Dube, Ajay Mishra, Musheer, and Prasun Singh claimed a wicket apiece. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Semifinal 1: Aakash Tigers MWS 150/7 in 20 overs (Jay Bista 35, Sarfaraz Khan 34; Ashutosh Ghagre 2/21) lost to Arcs Andheri 151/5 in 18.3 overs (Shivam Dube 45 not out, Divyaansh Sksena 34; Ajit Yadav 2/23, Shams Mulani 2/23) by 5 wickets. Article Source: IANS
Mehidy taken to hospital after being hit on the head by bouncer
Mehidy had a concussion, the team physio said, and will remain in hospital for 24 hours
Bengal T20 League: Karan Lal Slams 64-ball 145, Hits 14 Sixes, Bags Two Wickets To Script History
Bengal T20 League Season: History was scripted in the Bengal T20 League Season 3 at Eden Gardens on Thursday as Karan Lal produced a sensational all-round performance, smashing 145 off just 64 deliveries, including 14 sixes and seven fours, to power Servotech Siliguri Strikers to a commanding 73-run victory over Adamas Howrah Warriors. Karans remarkable innings became only the second century in the history of the league, following Gaurav Chauhans 103 off 55 balls in Season 2. His explosive knock formed the backbone of Siliguri Strikers imposing total of 231/2 in 20 overs, while Sudip Chatterjee played an important supporting role with a well-made 58 off 42 deliveries. In reply, Adamas Howrah Warriors never managed to build sustained momentum and were bowled out for 158 in 19.2 overs. Shakir Habib Gandhi top-scored with a brisk 40 off 20 balls but received little support from the rest of the batting order. With the ball, Siliguri continued their dominance as Akhilesh Yadav returned figures of 3/19, Shivamm Bharati claimed 2/21, and Karan capped off a memorable outing by picking up 2/29 to seal a comprehensive victory. En route to his record-breaking innings, Karan wrote several records to his name on Thursday: Highest individual run in Bengal T20 League history- 145 (64) Most sixes in an innings - 14 Most sixes in a season - 22 Most runs in an over - 32 runs (15th over against Writtick Chatterjee). Records by Servotech Siliguri Strikers on Thursday: Most sixes in a teams innings, Siliguri: 16 Highest Team Total- Siliguri- 231/2 The Bengal T20 League is a franchise-based T20 cricket competition organised under the aegis of the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB). Now in its third season, the league features eight city-based franchises representing the breadth of West Bengal - Adamas Howrah Warriors, Novus Royals Purulia, Kolkata Royal Tigers, Murshidabad Kings & Kueens, Rashmi Nes Medinipur Wizards, Servotech Siliguri Strikers, Shrachi Rarh Tigers, and Sobisco Smashers Malda competing across men's and women's competitions. Men's matches are held at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, with women's matches at the JU Salt Lake Campus, Kolkata. Brief scores: Servotech Siliguri Strikers vs Adamas Howrah Warriors Servotech Siliguri Strikers: 231/2 (20 overs) Servotech Siliguri Strikers vs Adamas Howrah Warriors Also Read: Live Cricket Score Result: Servotech Siliguri Strikers won by 73 runs Article Source: IANS
Rob Key: England Test team is not a 'national embarrassment'
Managing director won't rule out sacking Stokes following incident in Chelsea nightclub
Rob Key on Test captaincy: 'Joe Root is the man that gets England out of a hole'
Managing director says Brook's disciplinary issues ot the main reason why he was overlooked to lead team
Womens T20 WC: Warm-up Games Gave India Exposure, Confidence Ahead Of Starting Campaign, Says Salvi
T20 World Cup: India bowling coach Aavishkar Salvi said the two warm-up matches ahead of the ICC Womens T20 World Cup provided valuable exposure and confidence to the squad ahead of opening their campaign against Pakistan in Birmingham on Sunday. India, the 50-over World Cup winners, had a mixed build-up to the 12-team T20 World Cup. They lost to South Africa 4-1 before losing to England 2-1. In the warm-up games, India outsmarted the West Indies but lost to England. I think these two warm-up games were a good exposure to all of us. We could use this, actually, to express our game plans in the middle. Bowlers could go out there and express their game plans, and batters also. They went inside they tried out their plans. See, whenever we, the Indian team, play any game, the first intention is to win the game. Second intention is to give exposure to almost all the players who we think are going to participate in the World Cup, said Salvi in a video posted on bcci.tv. on Thursday. India are in Group 1, dubbed as Group of Death, alongside six-time winners Australia, South Africa, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and debutant the Netherlands. I think these two games gave us the chance to go out there and express ourselves. In the West Indies game, we won comfortably. We were defending 180 runs, and we defended it successfully. Here also, if you see 170 in a T20 game, we chased down that many when we came as close as getting to 166. It was a good fight back shown by the girls. Each and every segment, whether it was power play or middle overs or slog overs, I thought the bowlers actually operated really well. In the end, we fell short by 5 runs, but still, I thought it was a good fight back shown by the girls. From the individual perspective, I think Shreyanka had a brilliant two games. I mean, in both games, she performed really well. Radha getting those two games and getting her over under her belt, and in the first game itself, she got some wickets at a good economy rate. I thought it was a good confidence booster for us. I think Kranti was brilliant, added Salvi. Elaborating on gains from the batting side of things, Salvi said, From the batting perspective, if you ask me, Bharti was someone who used the West Indies game to the fullest. She got her runs under her belt. Today, if you see Richa, the way she batted was excellent. I mean, she almost got us the game. A lot of positives were there in the last two games. From the individual perspective, I think Shreyanka had a brilliant two games. I mean, in both games, she performed really well. Radha getting those two games and getting her over under her belt, and in the first game itself, she got some wickets at a good economy rate. I thought it was a good confidence booster for us. I think Kranti was brilliant, added Salvi. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Majorly, from the preparation and acclimatisation point of view, the game plans that suit these conditions, you get used to these conditions. I thought that was brilliant. That exposure was brilliant. I think all the girls, I think they are ready for the challenges ahead. Article Source: IANS
Kira Chathli To Lead England A Against India A In Womens T20 And 50-over Series
National Lead Batting Coach Jon: Surrey wicketkeeperbatter Kira Chathli has been named captain of England A for the upcoming womens series against India A, which will feature three T20s and three 50over matches to be played in late June and early July. Kira, who recently earned her first callup to the senior England squad, will lead a side that includes three players capped at full international level - Jodi Grewcock, Ryana MacDonaldGay, and Charis Pavely. Several others who have impressed in domestic cricket, The Hundred, and England Women U19s are also picked. The team will be coached by National Lead Batting Coach Jon JJ Lewis. The India series will be another test of where this very talented group of players is at. Earning selection for an A side is proof youre on the right path, but the next challenge is scoring runs or taking wickets consistently in domestic cricket and pushing for senior selection. A series against another nation is always a positive thing, and Im sure well learn a lot from it. Im delighted for Kira, Im sure shell look forward to leading the group, and I know shell take a lot from it, he said in an ECB statement on Thursday. England A will play three T20s - on June 20 and 23 at County Ground in Northampton and on June 25 at Ambassador Cruise Line Ground in Essex. It is followed by three 50over fixtures, beginning on June 28 at The County Ground in Sussex and concluding with backtoback games at The Cooper Associates County Ground in Taunton on July 1 and 4. A series against another nation is always a positive thing, and Im sure well learn a lot from it. Im delighted for Kira, Im sure shell look forward to leading the group, and I know shell take a lot from it, he said in an ECB statement on Thursday. Also Read: Live Cricket Score England Women A 50-over squad: Kira Chathli (captain), Grace Ballinger, Jodi Grewcock, Ella McCaughan, Flo Miller, Charis Pavely, Davina Perrin, Charley Phillips, Grace Potts, Grace Scrivens, Chloe Skelton, Sophia Smale, and Alexa Stonehouse Article Source: IANS
No Rush On Deciding Stokes' Future As England Player, Considering Alcohol Ban, Says Rob Key
The Kia Oval: England mens managing director Rob Key said there is no rush to take a call on Ben Stokes future as an England player and remained non-committal about him being the captain, while adding that hes also considering enforcing a complete alcohol ban on the side. Stokes and Gus Atkinson were not made available for selection for the second Test against New Zealand, starting at The Kia Oval next week, after the pair were involved in a nightclub altercation in the early hours of Monday morning following the teams 115-run win in the series opener at Lords and broke a midnight curfew. The confrontation also featured Saracens rugby union player Totoa Auvaa. Can Ben captain again? I think weve just got to let that play out. The decision, as I look forward, is about whats best for the team and whats best for Ben as well. I havent got an answer for that at the moment, to be honest. Its still very raw, certainly for Ben, Brendon (McCullum, head coach), myself, and the ECB. Ben has been through a range of emotions, as you would in this situation. A lot of people have had phone calls (where) youre just in disbelief, then you get angry. Theres a load of things, and Im still not sure Im over those at the moment. Time is probably the best thing for all of us. Nobody wants to make any rash decisions, whether thats on Bens side or the other end. Well take the next step when we get to that, Key told reporters in a press conference on Thursday. Asked specifically on Stokes future as Englands Test captain, Key replied, Im not saying that. At this point in time, it has not crossed my mind to get that far ahead. As far as sacking, or any of that stuff, we havent got anywhere close to being that far in the process. Further talking about contemplating banning alcohol in the national set-up, Key explained, Im trying to give myself a bit of time, but do we need to look and say, have they (the rules) actually been strict enough. Even when they win a game of cricket, is it now a time when theres just no alcohol at any time and at any stage? The players now have to show the public that they can be trusted. At this point, its hard to say they can. Its not just about the protocols; in the conditions of employment, there are several ways youre expected to behave as an England cricketer. We dont want our players out late at night in alcohol-related incidents. I dont think theyve become a national embarrassment. I think that Stokes and McCullum are (one of) the most successful coach and captain partnerships weve had. So I think thats far too strong a word. Its not just about the protocols; in the conditions of employment, there are several ways youre expected to behave as an England cricketer. We dont want our players out late at night in alcohol-related incidents. Also Read: Live Cricket Score We just thought this was too big a job at this stage for Harry to take on. Ultimately, when English crickets in a hole, Joe Root is the man that we ask to dig us out of it. Whether thats on the field or off the field. Were incredibly lucky to have him. And when I spoke to him about whether he would consider this, he didnt hesitate. Article Source: IANS
T20 World Cup: Pakistan womens team mentor Wahab Riaz said the squads recent preparation and youthful energy give him confidence ahead of the ICC Womens T20 World Cup 2026, adding that the Fatima Sana-led side are sure to play fearless cricket and are targeting a top-four finish. The 10th edition of the Womens T20 World Cup, to be staged in England from June 12 to July 5, is set to be the biggest in the tournaments history, with the field expanding to 12 teams. The event will feature 33 matches across seven venues, and Pakistan have been drawn in Group 1 alongside sixtime champions Australia, archrivals India, South Africa, Bangladesh, and debutant Netherlands. We have worked hard over the past few months, playing a series against Zimbabwe and facing Ireland and the West Indies. This is a young and energetic group that can rise to the occasion at the World Cup. You prepare your entire life to play in a World Cup, and it is an opportunity everyone looks forward to. Our focus is on playing a fearless and positive brand of cricket. We need to believe in our hard work, and the results will follow, Wahab said in a PCB statement on Thursday. Seam-bowling all-rounder Fatima will lead Pakistan in a second straight T20 World Cup, after having captained the side at the 2024 edition in the UAE. She enters the tournament in redhot form after smashing the fastest halfcentury in just 15 balls in womens T20Is during Pakistans 30 sweep of Zimbabwe in Karachi last month. Pakistans buildup to the tournament included away T20Is in South Africa, a home series against Zimbabwe, training camps, and a triseries in Ireland featuring the hosts and West Indies from May 28 to June 4. The side also played warmup matches in Derby against Sri Lanka on June 6 and Scotland on June 9, which they lost. Our group has some of the finest sides in the tournament, and this is a good opportunity for us to start on the right track, with things getting easier as the event progresses. We have a combination of youngsters and senior players, and I am confident that, given the hard work these players have put in, if they play to their potential, they will deliver a top-four finish, added Wahab. After opening their campaign against India, Pakistan will stay in Birmingham to meet South Africa on June 17 before travelling to Southampton to face Bangladesh on June 20. They take on Australia at Headingley in Leeds on June 23, with their final group match against the Netherlands scheduled for June 27 in Bristol. Our group has some of the finest sides in the tournament, and this is a good opportunity for us to start on the right track, with things getting easier as the event progresses. We have a combination of youngsters and senior players, and I am confident that, given the hard work these players have put in, if they play to their potential, they will deliver a top-four finish, added Wahab. Also Read: Live Cricket Score A World Cup is a stage where the whole world is watching you. The team has to work hard and believe it can go the distance, and we will give our best with a fighting spirit to perform well in this tournament. Article Source: IANS
Edgbaston takes center stage as England, Sri Lanka kick off T20 World Cup
History is on England's side, as they have won 10 of the last 12 T20Is against Sri Lanka
Liam Livingstone answers Lancashire SOS with return to Championship cricket
Injury crisis brings former England Test player back despite signing a white-ball contract earlier this year
Womens T20 WC: Fancy India To Win Over Pakistan, Have Jumped At Least A Level Or Two, Says Hussain
T20 World Cup: India will open their 2026 Womens T20 World Cup campaign against Pakistan at Edgbaston on June 14, as one of crickets most-watched rivalries takes centre stage in a global womens tournament. The results, though, have been onesided in recent years. India have won 13 of 16 T20Is against Pakistan, including a sixwicket victory at the 2024 T20 World Cup in Dubai. In Womens T20 World Cup meetings, India lead 62 across eight clashes. All contests have come in global or continental events the Womens T20 World Cup, Asia Cup, Asian Games, and Commonwealth Games with no bilateral series staged in this phase. Edgbastons large South Asian community, with strong Indian and Pakistani representation, is expected to generate intense local interest as both teams begin their campaigns. Nasser Hussain, the former England captain, addressed questions around the big clash as ICC Women's T20 World Cup expert in a JioStar Media Day. Excerpts:- On how Yastika Bhatia has fared as a number three batter so far From recent times, what I have seen recently, I actually think the other way round. Yastika, since I have seen her in England, her strike rate is excellent, she is a real boundary hitter, I quite like her at number 3 after the dynamic Shafali and Smriti Mandhana, and then you have Jemimah and Harmanpreet after, who can steady the ship if you need to, or kick on, and then you have Richa Ghosh to even kick on even more. So I like Yastika at 3, from what I have seen of her in England in particular, she has been smashing it everywhere, she hasn't made that big score, she has been getting like 30 and 20 balls, 30 and 25 deliveries. My only issue is that since her injury and her operation, it was a major operation. She has not been that mobile between the wickets; she has been run out twice in the England bilateral series and then in the field as well. So that is my only concern, especially if she is batting with Jemimah, for example, and Jemimah is very quick between the wickets, you may just have to keep an eye on that. But I quite like her at 3, and I quite like batting depth that everyone then moves down one, and it gives you a long batting line-up. Who has the edge in the India-Pakistan clash? Firstly, there is obviously a great rivalry across any sport between India and Pakistan, but you would say recently in men's and women's cricket, it has not been particularly close, especially in ICC events, and the rivalry has not yet kicked off to the extent that it has in the men's game. But it is still India vs Pakistan, and it is a format that obviously can cause upsets. We have seen in the warm-up games, and even before that, sides like Scotland, Ireland, and the Netherlands are playing some very good cricket. India will be confident but obviously wary that it only takes Fatima Sana to come off, have a good day, and they could be in trouble, but if you are asking me a prediction, India will be too strong. In general, the way Indian women's cricket has grown - 50 over World Cup win, WPL, everything that is happening in women's cricket in India compared to Pakistan cricket, where their players don't play in all the franchise tournaments around the world. So, they have stayed at a level whereas India have jumped at least a level or two if not more. On the importance of six-hitting to win the competition Six hitting is absolutely vital. The women's game has changed from a touch game. So, you think of Meg Lanning, a wonderful touch player who stroked the ball to the boundary. One of the greatest I have ever seen, and now you see the power hitters that are around. They just clear the rope and back themselves to hit sixes. So, whichever team hits the most sixes will probably win the tournament. But also, I always keep an eye on our monitor in the commentary box on the dot ball percentage. There is no point in having five dots and then a six. You are going to run a ball, and that won't win you anything. So, that is another thing that coaches and analysts will keep an eye on. What is the dot ball percentage of that team? So, the combination of those. That is why running between the wickets is very important. That is why I mentioned Jemimah and the way she runs between the wickets. The good balls are going for one, two, and three, and your bad ball is going for four and six. It is very difficult as an opposition captain to control that. So, yes, six-hitting is vital. But you have got to keep an eye on that dot ball percentage. On whether Deepti Sharma is an automatic starter in the playing eleven For me, yes. Going into a big game in a big tournament, I would want Deepti Sharma. You want people to go into battle with you, streetwise people, and Deepti is absolutely that, and I mentioned Smriti Mandhana as well. I saw a question that was relayed to me about what the surprise will be. It's not a surprise, but the two have had quite a few periods recently, and this World Cup has come as a perfect time for them. Its because once you're playing in a World Cup, everything else, no one will remember what happened in the bilaterals. No one will remember what happened in South Africa, Australia, whatever. It will be, how did you go in this World Cup? And certain people raise their game for big tournaments, and Deepti Sharma is absolutely that. She has been out of form since the South Africa series and has gone a long period without getting wickets. Then in the fourth game, she got runs and wickets, and she's done okay against England in the bilaterals. She knows England very well, having played the Hundred here and a lot of games here for India. So she knows the conditions very well. They may not see it differently, but if you're asking me, my opinion is that I would want Deepti Sharma as one of the first names in a big game. Thinking of a knockout semi-final or a final in a big game, I would want Deepti Sharma to be one of them. But look how she went in the 50-over World Cup, and I would want Deepti on my side. On what will be the key factor in deciding the winner of the India-Pakistan clash? Pakistan will have to play above the level they're playing at the moment. They had a good series against Zimbabwe, and their strike rates all went through the roof. But with all respect to Zimbabwe, that attack won't be like the Indian attack. So if Pakistan are just par, and they're par, I'm talking about, then India will be too good. To beat India and some of those sides, and I'm not just talking about Pakistan or the group - I'm talking about England, South Africa, New Zealand, India, Australia. To beat those sides, you have to play above your par. So they cannot play timid cricket. If you get 120 runs, India are just going to knock that off easily. So they have to play fearless cricket, and they have to have the cricketers to be able to do that, and they have to put India under a bit of pressure. Everyone knows they're playing for India. The expectation is there now in that group as well. With India being in a group with South Africa and Australia, this is a must-win game, and you could argue a must-win game, and make sure your net run rate is good as well, with what might come ahead. So if you can suddenly, in the first game, catch India a bit cold and put them under a bit of pressure, then India are thinking, Crikey, we can't lose this one. We've still got to play South Africa and Australia. Then you never know. But as I said right at the start, I fancy India to win. On whether India might have to take an extra batter or bowler to compensate for Amanjot Kaurs absence Personally, I would play the extra batter. I would pack my batting. I would use Shafali - remember in the 50-over World Cup final, Shafali came in. She wasn't even in the original squad, and then there she is, getting runs and wickets. I would use Shafali as my safety valve bowler, as in the women's game, four of the top six, seven bowlers are spinners. England have three spinners in the top six. So spin to win in women's cricket, especially T20 cricket. I would play all my spinners, not all of them, but if you're asking me about the balance, a couple of seamers and all my batting. But if you do that, you have to go hard. If you go back to the 50-over World Cup, India at the start had the same problem. They played the extra batter, but were still being a bit cautious. Personally, I would play the extra batter. I would pack my batting. I would use Shafali - remember in the 50-over World Cup final, Shafali came in. She wasn't even in the original squad, and then there she is, getting runs and wickets. I would use Shafali as my safety valve bowler, as in the women's game, four of the top six, seven bowlers are spinners. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Catch all the action from ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026, June 12-July 5, LIVE on JioHotstar and Star Sports Network. Article Source: IANS
Kira Chathli to captain England A against India
Squads announced for T20 and 50-over series starting later this month
ENGW vs SLW Match 1 , Cricket Tips :The ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 will begin with England Women taking on Sri Lanka Women in the first game. New Zealand women are the defending champions, and there are 11 more participants who will try their luck. The first match will be held at Edgbaston in Birmingham on Friday at 11 PM IST. England Women are one of the top contenders of the tournament, and they will be looking to start well. Every team will play five matches in their group, and only two teams from two groups will qualify for the semis. That is why every match is important. Sri Lanka women did well, winning both warm-up matches. They will be looking to challenge the strong English side and turn things around. ENGW vs SLW: Match Details Date : June 12, 2026 (Friday) Time : 11 PM IST Venue : Edgbaston, Birmingham ENGW vs SLW Live Streaming Details The live action of the Women's T20 World Cup 2026 will be available on Star Sports Networks. Fans can access the live stream on the Jio Hotstar app or website. ENGW vs SLW Head-to-Head in T20Is Total Matches : 12 England Women : 10 Sri Lanka Women : 02 No - Result : 00 ENGW vs SLW: Ground Pitch Report Edgbaston offers a good and balanced wicket. Pacers will get good movement early on, and spinners will get assistance with the old ball. The wicket is expected to settle down as the match goes on. The team that will chase will have an edge. ENGW vs SLW Possible XIs ENGW : Sophia Dunkley, Danni Wyatt-Hodge, Nat Sciver-Brunt (c), Alice Capsey, Heather Knight, Amy Jones (wk), Charlie Dean, Freya Kemp, Sophie Ecclestone, Lauren Bell, Lauren Filer SLW : Chamari Athapaththu (c), Harshitha Samarawickrama, Vishmi Gunaratne, Hasini Perera (wk), Imesha Dulani, Kavisha Dilhari, Nilakshika de Silva, Sugandika Kumari, Malki Madara, Mithali Ayodhya, Nimasha Meepage ENGW vs SLW Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Danny Wyatt-Hodeg and Chamari Athapaththu will have a big role with the bat. These two can play aggressively in the power play and give the team a good start. Probable Best Bowler Lauren Bell is one of the best T20 bowlers in women's cricket and is carrying good form with her. For Sri Lanka, Sugandika Kumari is the experienced bowler who can make an impact here. Today Match Prediction : England Women are very strong in their own conditions and Sri Lanka Women have struggled against England. We predict England to win this game on Friday. ENGW vs SLW Match 1, ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026, Today 2026 Match, ENGW vs SLW 2026 Prediction, ENGW vs SLW Predicted XIs, Injury Update for ENGW vs SLW Match Also Read: Live Cricket Score Disclaimer : The predictions or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.
T20 World Cup: India's batting firepower is not the concern heading into the Women's T20 World Cup, but rather how they firm up on their bowling combination and protect totals, said former England captain Nasser Hussain on Wednesday. Skipper Harmanpreet Kaur will have plenty of options to choose from when India face Pakistan in their opening match of the tournament at Edgbaston on June 14. In the absence of seam-bowling all-rounders Amanjot Kaur and Kashvee Gautam, the bowling combinations make-up will be Indias biggest headache. Deepti Sharma, Sree Charani, Arundhati Reddy, and Renuka Singh Thakur look like automatic picks, while Radha Yadav, Shreyanka Patil, and Nandni Sharma are also in the mix. I don't think the issue is with India's batting. I think throughout their tour here, they have batted pretty well. But just their formula with the ball, and they can't protect 170 or they are going for 170, 180, and then they are under pressure a little bit. So, I like their fearless batting and batting depth. I like Richa Ghosh as their finisher. So, I think it is more in the field and with the ball. How do they go? Do they use Shafali as their 6th bowler or 5th bowler? Who do they give the new ball to? I think they are the issues that are mostNot concerning, but if you are asking me what is happening in team meetings, it is the combination with the ball that they will be thinking about the most, Hussain, the ICC Women's T20 World Cup expert, told IANS in a JioStar Media Day on Thursday. At the same time, India will lean on a powerful batting lineup at the Womens T20 World Cup, with captain Harmanpreet, Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma, Yastika Bhatia, Jemimah Rodrigues, and Richa Ghosh all capable of scoring at a healthy rate, though the current ODI World Cup holders are still a bit more dependent on their openers. I noticed it straight away. I did the game at Chelmsford, the first game of the T20 series, and straight from ball one, and they lost a couple of early wickets. I think they lost two wickets in the first over, and then usually Jemimah sort of knocks it around, and she came in smashing it, and Yastika came in smashing it. So, definitely they are trying to feel it. It is just the way T20 cricket is going. It is just like that. If you have got batting depth, you see in the IPL with the impact player because people now realise they can clear the rope and hit the boundary in the WPL, there are so many boundary hitters now, and I think they are playing, added Hussain. He also feels Richa, who struck a sensational 68 in the warm-up clash against England in Cardiff to break a run of lean scores, would be central to India's ambitions in defeating Pakistan and getting their campaign off to a flying start. Richa has had a strike rate of 163 in T20Is post the 2024 Womens T20 World Cup, which is the best amongst batters participating in the tournament and making 350 runs in that phase. Richa is absolutely vital for India. We saw inside, because Deepti's batting in South Africa just fell away a little bit, it became Richa or nothing. It can't be like that because that puts too much pressure on her. But to have a finisher like her (is immense) - any great T20 side, men or women, have great finishers. You have starters, Smriti Mandhana, or whoever. But you need a finisher that will get you 40 off 20 balls, and Richa is one that can definitely do that, he said. Hussain further acknowledged that Richas role comes with inherent risk and inconsistency, but added that the match-winning elements in her batting make her indispensable in the Indian batting line-up. There'll be periods where it's a really odd role because there'll be periods where she gets out. She came in as a replacement or whatever the other day. They retired someone out (Yastika), and she came in. She was out on the first ball, I think. There'll be times when you'll go, 'What is the fuss all about'? She's gone two games where she slogged it up in the air and got out. Then in the third game, you will see exactly what the fuss is all about. I saw it in the 50-over World Cup, the way she came in and thought of Nadine de Klerk as well (in Visakhapatnam). Those sorts of cricketers that can come in at the end and finish an innings. As an opposition captain, I'm thinking, right, I'm keeping India down to 150 here, we're going really well, and she comes in and makes it 180-190. Just the momentum as you're walking off that field, you think, 'Hmm, that one inning has gotten above par.' She is brilliant. Her keeping is very good as well. She has a massive, massive future ahead of her. Every side would love to have her on their side, he added. On the question of Bharti Fulmali, who was brought in to complement Richas explosiveness lower down the order, but is yet to make an impact or get a sustained run in the playing eleven, Hussain was equally emphatic in his support for her. Those sorts of cricketers that can come in at the end and finish an innings. As an opposition captain, I'm thinking, right, I'm keeping India down to 150 here, we're going really well, and she comes in and makes it 180-190. Just the momentum as you're walking off that field, you think, 'Hmm, that one inning has gotten above par.' She is brilliant. Her keeping is very good as well. She has a massive, massive future ahead of her. Every side would love to have her on their side, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Catch all the action from ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026, June 12-July 5, LIVE on JioHotstar and Star Sports Network. Article Source: IANS
Zak Crawley takes break from first-class cricket following England axe
Former England opener set to be named as Sunrisers Leeds captain in the Hundred, ahead of Harry Brook
Women's T20 WC: When And Where To Watch ENG Vs SL, Know All Details
T20 World Cup: The wait is finally over, and the Women's T20 World Cup 2026 will commence on Friday with hosts England taking on Sri Lanka in the tournament opener at the Edgbaston Stadium. Among the pre-tournament favourites, England boast a formidable squad packed with international experience and match-winners across all departments. The hosts will rely on the likes of Danni Wyatt-Hodge, Alice Capsey, Amy Jones, Charlotte Dean, and youngster Lauren Bell as they seek to launch their title bid on a positive note. England won the inaugural edition of the tournament but failed to replicate the success in the next eight editions. They exited from the Group Stage in 2024. Sri Lanka, meanwhile, arrive with ambitions of causing an early upset and making a statement on the biggest stage in womens cricket. Skipper Chamari Athapaththu will once again be central to the teams hopes, while Harshitha Samarawickrama and Kaushani Nuthyangana are expected to shoulder key responsibilities. Historically, England have enjoyed the upper hand in meetings between the two sides. The teams have faced each other 12 times in international cricket, with England emerging victorious in 10 encounters, while Sri Lanka have managed two wins. Their rivalry dates back to June 2009, with the most recent clash taking place in September 2023. When: Friday, June 12, 11:00 PM IST Where: Edgbaston Stadium, Birmingham Where to watch: The England vs Sri Lanka match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Squads: Where to watch: The England vs Sri Lanka match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Sri Lanka: Chamari Athapaththu (c), Hasini Perera, Vishmi Gunarathne, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Imesha Dulani, Nilakshika Silva, Kaveesha Dilhari, Hansima Karunarathne, Kaushini Nuthyangana, Sugandika Dassanayaka, Nimasha Madushani, Kawya Kavindi, Malki Madara, Mithali Ayodhya, Chethana Vimukthi. Article Source: IANS
WI vs SL 1st T20I: Preview, Predicted XIs, Player Tips & Match Prediction
WI vs SL 1st T20I, Cricket Tips :Sri Lanka won the three-match ODI series against West Indies 1-0 after the last two ODIs were washed out. These two sides will now face each other in three T20Is. The first game will be held at Sabina Park on Friday at 6 AM IST. West Indies will be playing their first T20I since the T20 World Cup 2026. They did pretty well in that tournament and were unlucky to miss the semifinal berth. Sri Lanka failed to go through the group stage and lost four consecutive matches, despite a good start. This will be a face-off between West Indian batting firepower and Sri Lanka's settled bowling unit. WI vs SL: Match Details Date : June 12, 2026 (Friday) Time : 6:00 AM IST Venue : Sabina Park, Kingston, Jamaica WI vs SL: Live Streaming Details In India, fans can watch the live action of the WI vs SL game on the FanCode mobile app or website. WI vs SL: Head-to-Head in T20Is Total Matches : 18 West Indies : 08 Sri Lanka : 10 No - result : 00 WI vs SL: Ground Pitch Report The wicket in Kingston is on the slower side. The last few days, there has been constant rain, which will slow down the wicket a little more. Hence, the toss will be crucial here. The team that bowls first will have a better bowling conditions. WI vs SL: Possible XIs West Indies : Brandon King, Shai Hope (c & wk), Rovman Powell, Shimron Hetmyer, Sherfane Rutherford, Roston Chase, Romario Shepherd, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Matthew Forde, Alzarri Joseph Sri Lanka : Kusal Mendis (c & wk), Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kamindu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Pavan Rathnayake, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Eshan Malinga, Nuwan Thushara WI vs SL: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Pathum Nissanka and Shimron Hetmyer are two key batters for both sides who can play well according to the situation. Probable Bowler Nuwan Thushara and Jason Holder are two specialist T20 bowlers who have been performing well in this format. Today Match Prediction : West Indies have a powerful and long batting unit. Hence, we predict West Indies to win the first T20I. WI vs SL Match 1st T20I, Today Match WI vs SL, WI vs SL Prediction, WI vs SL Predicted XIs, Injury Update for West Indies vs Sri Lanka Match Also Read: Live Cricket Score Disclaimer : The prediction or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions
Prabhsimran, Gaikwad, Tilak score fifties in DLS loss to Afghanistan A
Half-centuries from Imran Mir and Bahir Shah ensured Afghanistan A stayed ahead of the DLS par in a rain-hit game
The Bangladesh Cricket Board: Bangladesh have reshaped their squads across formats ahead of a busy international stretch, recalling their premier fast-bowling trio of Taskin Ahmed, Nahid Rana, and Mustafizur Rahman for the upcoming T20I series against Australia while simultaneously rewarding Towhid Hridoy with a long-awaited place in the Test setup. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) unveiled separate squads for the three-match T20I contest against Australia in Chattogram and the subsequent one-off Test against Zimbabwe in Harare, with several notable inclusions and omissions reflecting both immediate priorities and long-term planning. Leading the headlines is the return of frontline quicks Taskin, Nahid, and Mustafizur to the T20I squad. The trio's comeback significantly strengthens Bangladesh's pace department after Taskin and Rana were rested during the previous T20I series against New Zealand earlier this year. Their return comes at the expense of several seam-bowling options. Tanzim Hasan Shakib, Ripon Mondol, and Mohammad Saifuddin have all missed out despite featuring during the New Zealand series, as selectors opted to restore their first-choice attack ahead of the challenge posed by Australia. The pace unit will also include Abdul Gaffar Saqlain, who was part of the squad against New Zealand but did not feature in any of the matches. Away from the T20 format, the most intriguing development is the elevation of Towhid Hridoy into Bangladesh's red-ball plans. The aggressive batter has built considerable international experience in white-ball cricket since debuting in 2023, featuring in 52 ODIs and 59 T20Is, but has yet to play a Test match. His inclusion in the 15-member squad for the Zimbabwe Test reflects the selectors' desire to inject greater attacking intent into the batting line-up. Despite relatively limited first-class exposure, Hridoy has shown enough promise to earn consideration, scoring three centuries in 16 first-class appearances. Hridoy's responsibilities have also increased in the T20I setup. Chief selector Habibul Bashar confirmed that the batter will serve as vice-captain under Litton Kumar Das after Saif Hassan stepped down from the role to concentrate on his own performances. The Test squad also features uncapped medium-pacer Robiul Haque, who continues to impress on the domestic circuit. Robiul has accumulated 107 wickets and 620 runs in 32 first-class matches and is viewed as a player capable of developing into a genuine pace-bowling all-rounder. Experienced seamer Khaled Ahmed has also been recalled. Meanwhile, several established names have been left out of the Zimbabwe Test as part of Bangladesh's workload-management strategy. Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Shoriful Islam, Taskin Ahmed, and Nahid Rana have all been rested, with team management continuing to rotate players across formats during a packed international calendar. Bangladesh's immediate focus will be the three-match T20I series against Australia, scheduled for June 17, 19, and 21 in Chattogram. The Test contingent will then depart for Zimbabwe on June 23 ahead of the one-off encounter in Harare, which begins on June 28. With experienced quicks returning to spearhead the T20I attack and Hridoy receiving his first opportunity in the longest format, the squad announcements signal Bangladesh's attempt to balance present-day competitiveness with the development of future all-format options. Bangladesh's immediate focus will be the three-match T20I series against Australia, scheduled for June 17, 19, and 21 in Chattogram. The Test contingent will then depart for Zimbabwe on June 23 ahead of the one-off encounter in Harare, which begins on June 28. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Test squad against Zimbabwe: Najmul Hossain Shanto (c), Shadman Islam, Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Tanzid Hasan, Mominul Haque, Mushfiqur Rahim, Litton Kumar Das, Taijul Islam, Nayeem Hasan, Khaled Ahmed, Ebadot Hossain, Hasan Mahmud, Towhid Hridoy, Amite Hasan, Robiul Haque. Article Source: IANS
Serena Williams' comeback at the Queen's Club is over after injury to doubles partner
Williams is set to play doubles at the Berlin Open in Germany next week
Dravid's son Anvay picked for India Under-19s' one-day games in Sri Lanka
He has been named in the squad for the three one-day games, to be played on July 4, 6 and 9 in Hambantota
Bristol, Southampton Venues Went Through Refurbishments For Womens T20 WC, Says Tournament Director
The Bristol County Ground: The Bristol County Ground and the Utilita Bowl in Southampton have undergone significant infrastructure refurbishments ahead of the 2026 ICC Women's T20 World Cup, with tournament director Beth Barrett-Wild saying that they were done as part of a broader wave of facility investment triggered by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) hosting the global event from June 12 to July 5. When you host a World Cup, it gives you an opportunity to invest in sorts of capital projects and initiatives. So we've got seven incredible host venues for the tournament this summer in six citiesat least three of those embarked on significant facility developments. The Bristol County grounds in Gloucestershire -- that's a multi-million-pound changing room refurbishment that they've undergone, which has been instigated by them being a Women's T20 World Cup host venue to meet those minimum requirements. So they're going to have incredible facilities, and I haven't been down to see them yet. I'm due to go in a couple of weeks to watch some of the games. But I think the changing facilities that they're going to have now are just going to be next level. I think they've got four facilities that they've invested in and a three-million-pound project that they've embarked on. Those four facilities are again, because it means that they can host double headers really brilliantly. So double headers have been incredibly successful here through The Hundreds, and we're going to see a few double-headers actually through the tournament as well, and Bristol are hosting some of those with four world-class changing facilities being put into place. Similarly, PMOA (Players and Match Officials area) refurbishments were done at the Hampshire Bowl on the South Coast in Southampton, and they've done a lot of work there, Beth told IANS in an exclusive conversation on Thursday. Lancashire has also invested in Old Trafford, which had 63 female toilets in 2025, and that number will be 114 for the Womens T20 World Cup. They've done various things, both within Old Trafford, but also in terms of some of their ancillary facilities. So they've got a really amazing development called Farrington, which is almost their second venue, and isn't directly linked to the World Cup. But I guess it's an outcome of the growth of the women's game that they've recognised that they need a world-class second facility now that can accommodate both men's and women's cricket. But that's kind of, I guess, been born out of just the growth over a period of time. Then there's some just more kind of in-the-moment facility elements that we're looking at like the fan profile that we're gonna see coming through, she added. Aside from the venue, the organisers also had to navigate a complex set of logistical challenges, including disruptions to global shipping and travel arising from the West Asia crisis. Beth revealed the ECB and ICC had maintained a joint risk register and contingency planning process throughout, and confirmed that all 12 competing nations had arrived without any major incident in the way. With that, it's obviously very unfortunate and sad that that is happening. We had been alert to it from the outset. We've worked very closely with the ICC on this, and we've had various contingency plans in place around things like the shipping timelines for kit and equipment, and there have been some challenges there. There have been a few delays there too, but we've worked through those as a team, and we've got on top of those. One of the things that we were alert to was actually global travel and making sure teams arrived smoothly. We have got all 12 teams here, so that's good, and we've managed that. Actually, we were helped by the fact that there were a few series going on in Scotland, Ireland, and England beforehand, and teams did tend to arrive early there. But really, that's just been about having them - we've had a risk register and sort of various contingency planning sessions in combination with the ICC. So we, as the ECB LOC and the ICC, had to make sure that we've just got various backup plans in place there. It's been something that we've had to be alert to, but we have been across. Fortunately, we've so far not encountered any major issues there, she explained. Theres also been some help from the British government, added Beth. There are some other bits there around working with our UK government to make sure if there were any, for example, like shortages of fuel as a result of the crisis, how we'd work with that. So we're very plugged into that and various kinds of security elements, too. We've got a very, very, very sort of high-quality safety and security overlay across the tournament, which is the same level that you'd expect to see around a men's global events in terms of that security footprint. So that's all pretty well covered, she said. On the issue of online abuse - a growing concern across women's sport globally - Beth confirmed that dedicated monitoring software was in place for England women's players, with the ICC running a parallel system through an AI-driven programme named GoBubble at the tournament level. In 2024, the ICC used GoBubble to counter all kinds of social media abuse towards teams and players, and monitored 1.5 million comments that were toxic in nature. The issue of abuse towards players again emerged when India lower-order batter Bharti Fulmali received hate and trolling over her looks on social media. Then, in terms of the online abuse element, look, this is something which is not nice. It's something that I think is getting worse in some regards, but I think we have various monitoring processes in place now. I know, definitely, for England women, we are working with a company that helps monitor and support our players in that, and the ICC has something in place as well, but I would need to double-check that. In 2024, the ICC used GoBubble to counter all kinds of social media abuse towards teams and players, and monitored 1.5 million comments that were toxic in nature. The issue of abuse towards players again emerged when India lower-order batter Bharti Fulmali received hate and trolling over her looks on social media. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I know it's a company that's used by a few major women's team sports now in terms of that monitoring and support system. But it is something that everybody is aware of and needs to be addressed, she concluded. Article Source: IANS
Bristol, Southampton Venues Refurbished For Womens T20 WC: Tournament Director
The Bristol County Ground: The Bristol County Ground and the Utilita Bowl in Southampton have undergone significant infrastructure refurbishments ahead of the 2026 ICC Women's T20 World Cup, with tournament director Beth Barrett-Wild saying that they were done as part of a broader wave of facility investment triggered by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) hosting the global event from June 12 to July 5. When you host a World Cup, it gives you an opportunity to invest in sort of capital projects and initiatives. So we've got seven incredible host venues for the tournament this summer in six cities. At least three of those embarked on significant facility developments. The Bristol County grounds down in Gloucestershire - that's a multi-million pounds changing room refurbishment that they've undergone, which has been instigated by them being a Women's T20 World Cup host venue to meet those minimum requirements. So they're going to have incredible facilities, and I haven't been down to see them yet. I'm due to go in a couple of weeks to watch some of the games. But I think the changing facilities that they're going to have now are just going to be next level. I think they've got four facilities that they've invested in and a three million pounds project that they've embarked on. Those four facilities are again, because it means that they can host double headers really brilliantly. So double headers have been incredibly successful here through The Hundreds and we're going to see a few double headers actually through the tournament as well and Bristol are hosting some of those with four world-class changing facilities being put into place. Similarly, PMOA (Players and Match Officials area) refurbishments were done at the Hampshire Bowl on the South Coast in Southampton and they've done a lot of work there, Beth told IANS in an exclusive conversation on Thursday. Lancashire has also invested into Old Trafford, which had 63 female toilets in 2025 and that number will be 114 for the Womens T20 World Cup. They've done various things, both within Old Trafford, but then also in terms of some of their ancillary facilities. So they've got a really amazing development called Farrington, which is almost their second venue, and isn't directly linked to the World Cup. But I guess it's an outcome of the growth of the women's game that they've recognised that they need a world-class second facility now that can accommodate both men's and women's cricket. But that's kind of, I guess, been born out of just the growth over a period of time. Then there's some just more kind of in the moment facility elements that we're looking at like the fan profile that we're gonna see coming through, she added. Aside from the venue, the organisers also had to navigate a complex set of logistical challenges, including disruptions to global shipping and travel arising from the West Asia crisis. Beth revealed the ECB and ICC had maintained a joint risk register and contingency planning process throughout, and confirmed that all 12 competing nations had arrived without any major incident in the way. With that, it's obviously very unfortunate and sad that that is happening. We had been alert to it from the outset. We've worked very closely with the ICC on this and we've had various contingency plans in place around things like the shipping timelines for kit and equipment and there have been some challenges there. There have been a few delays there too, but we've worked through those as a team and we've got on top of those. One of the things that we were alert to was actually global travel and making sure teams arrived smoothly. We have got all 12 teams here, so that's good and we've managed that. Actually we were helped by, there was a few series going on actually in Scotland and Ireland and also England beforehand and teams did tend to arrive early there. But really that's just been about having them - we've had a risk register and sort of various contingency planning sessions in combination with the ICC. So us as the ECB LOC and the ICC had to make sure that we've just got various backup plans in place there. It's been something that we've had to be alert to, but we have been across. Fortunately, we've so far not encountered any major issues there, she explained. Theres also been some help from the British government too, added Beth. There's some other bits there around working with our UK government to make sure if there was any, for example, like shortages of fuel as a result of the crisis, how we'd work with that. So we're very plugged into that and various kinds of security elements too. We've got a very, very, very sort of high quality safety and security overlay across the tournament, which is the same level that you'd expect to see around a men's global events in terms of that security footprint. So that's all pretty well covered, she said. On the issue of online abuse - a growing concern across women's sport globally - Beth confirmed that dedicated monitoring software was in place for England women's players, with the ICC running a parallel system through an AI-driven programme named GoBubble at the tournament level. In 2024, the ICC used GoBubble to counter all kinds of social media abuse towards teams and players, and monitored 1.5 million comments which were toxic in nature. The issue of abuse towards players again emerged when India lower-order batter Bharti Fulmali received hate and trolling over her looks on social media. Then in terms of the online abuse element, look, this is something which is not nice. It's something that I think is getting worse in some regards, but I think we have got various monitoring processes in place now. I know definitely for England women, we are working with a company that helped to monitor and support our players on that and the ICC have got something in place as well, but I would need to double check that. In 2024, the ICC used GoBubble to counter all kinds of social media abuse towards teams and players, and monitored 1.5 million comments which were toxic in nature. The issue of abuse towards players again emerged when India lower-order batter Bharti Fulmali received hate and trolling over her looks on social media. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I know it's a company that's used by a few major women's team sports now in terms of that monitoring and support system. But it is something that everybody is aware of and needs to be addressed, she concluded. Article Source: IANS
'The Shoulder Finally Won': Riyan Parag Begins Road To Recovery After Successful Surgery
Riyan Parag: Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag has successfully undergone shoulder surgery, bringing an end to a prolonged battle with an injury that had troubled him for nearly two years and repeatedly disrupted his cricketing commitments. The 24-year-old had continued to play through discomfort despite recurring shoulder issues affecting him at both the domestic and international levels. The injury had also curtailed his opportunities with India after making his international debut in 2024. Parag admitted that the physical challenge had tested him throughout the last two seasons, forcing him to navigate periods of frustration while remaining available for his teams. He shared the update on social media, confirming that the procedure had gone according to plan and that his focus has now shifted towards rehabilitation and a return to competitive cricket. Well, the shoulder finally won. For everyone whos been asking, the surgery is done and went well. The past two years have tested me in ways I never expected. There were good days, frustrating days, and days when simply getting through a game was a challenge. But I wouldnt have wanted it any other way. Now comes a different challenge- recovery, rehab and patience. Ill be back doing what I love soon. See you on the other side, Parag wrote on Instagram while sharing a post-surgery picture from the hospital. The surgery comes after a demanding phase in Parag's career that saw him assume greater responsibility on and off the field. Earlier this year, he was appointed Rajasthan Royals' full-time captain for IPL 2026 and responded impressively by guiding the franchise into the playoffs in his debut season as skipper. Rajasthan eventually finished third after suffering a narrow defeat to the Gujarat Titans in Qualifier 2, falling one step short of the final. Well, the shoulder finally won. For everyone whos been asking, the surgery is done and went well. The past two years have tested me in ways I never expected. There were good days, frustrating days, and days when simply getting through a game was a challenge. But I wouldnt have wanted it any other way. Now comes a different challenge- recovery, rehab and patience. Ill be back doing what I love soon. See you on the other side, Parag wrote on Instagram while sharing a post-surgery picture from the hospital. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The BCCI had earlier stated that Parag's rehabilitation will be overseen by the Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru. Before returning to either domestic or international cricket, he will need to complete the prescribed recovery programme and receive clearance from the medical staff. Article Source: IANS
Over Cricket World Cup: Beth BarrettWild, the tournament director of 2026 ICC Womens T20 World Cup, said they have been working on a blueprint to sustain momentum in the womens game, something which was a key learning for her from the 2017 Womens ODI World Cup, adding that once demand is created, it has to be optimised with supply. Nine years ago, the 2017 Womens ODI World Cup in England, which the hosts won in a sold-out final at Lords, led to a transformation in perception about women's cricket. It went from a little-known sport into a highly followed one, apart from it being recognised as a commercially viable property just like how mens cricket is. In an exclusive conversation with IANS ahead of the T20 World Cup starting on Friday, Beth said the key lesson from 2017 ODI World Cup was the absence of a follow-on pathway for newly converted fans to watch more womens cricket and explained the plan about keeping fans hooked to ensure that the momentum from this summer's mega does not dissipate the moment the final ends on July 5 at Lords. So lots and lots of lessons (were there) from 2017. I was very fortunate personally to get to work on the 2017 Women's 50 Over Cricket World Cup that we hosted here as a strategic planning manager. That was very much kind of behind the scenes and trying to make sure that we maximise that moment as best as possible, which we did see through to the final. So that sold out England v India final at Lord's and those incredible scenes that day and it was definitely here in England, probably the first moment where we'd seen a traditionally male dominated sport, such as cricket, really break through at scale on a national level and really capture the imagination of the nation. Having that final sold out really just demonstrated that actually if you build an opportunity for the women's game to really shine and you market it properly and have a really good ticketing strategy behind it, there is an audience there that wants to watch it. So that was really, really important that we had that big final moment, she said. However, Beth acknowledged that the 2017 ODI World Cup triumph was followed by a significant gap in matches for England. But in terms of learnings, one of the things in terms of really sort of capturing that momentum, England women didn't actually play another fixture that summer. So we played in that final, we had that big ground swell of love for the England women's team and all of that attention. Then we didn't have anywhere to signpost those fans into going to watch and sort of continue their following of the England women's team, she said. This time, the ECB has engineered a near-seamless calendar. The T20 World Cup final at Lord's on July 5 will be followed just five days later by the first-ever women's Test match at the iconic ground - England versus India beginning on July 10 and is followed the Vitality Blast women's T20 finals day at the Kia Oval on July 17, before The Hundred begins. So that's certainly something that we've looked at really carefully this summer. Immediately after the final at Lord's on the 5th of July, we have got the iconic first historic ever women's test match at Lord's against India. That starts on the 10th of July, just five days later and it's a different format, but there is still a notion there that it will be big scale, it will be iconic in status and all of those things. So straight away, fans will have the opportunity to watch England women in action or India women in action in that fixture. Then we go from there, we've got our domestic women's T20 competition finals day, which is the Vitality Blast and that's on the 17th of July at the Kia Oval, which is one of our venues for semifinals again within the T20 World Cup. So that's no coincidence, as that's really carefully identified as an opportunity again to signpost people in. Then after that, we've got The Hundred and that's probably one of the big shifts that we've seen since 2017 and the impact that The Hundred can have in terms of that blockbuster high profile, high quality world-class domestic franchise competition, where again, immediately, fans can watch the women's T20 World Cup and have a brilliant experience there and then go and watch the heroes again and that's one of the things that I'm really excited about, she elaborated. Beth added that the tournaments quality itself would make the transition for fans to see The Hundred in a more compelling manner, especially with many World Cupbound players expected to feature in the competition. The quality of this Women's T20 World Cup is gonna be stronger, better and deeper than we've ever seen. It really is quite an open playing field actually across those 12 nations, which is really exciting. I think whoever is in the final on the 5th of July, there's a very high probability that some of those players featuring in that final, whether it's from England, South Africa, India, Australia and West Indies, will then be going on to play in The Hundred. So those players, that familiarity, connection, and engagement will continue forward into that competition. So that's probably one of the really big learnings, I guess, coming out of 2017, is making sure that once you've created that demand, you're really optimising it with supply afterwards and you've got those signpost pieces. Then actually, if you project a little bit further for us, so 2027, we're very fortunate that, again, we've got the women's Ashes. When we talk about maintaining that momentum, it's not just directly in 26 where we'll keep up that cadence. Actually continuing that into next summer with a big high-profile summer for us as the ECB with that series against Australia is really, really important, again, to really build on that fan following for the women's game. So again, it's no coincidence. Beth, who has had a very close view of the evolution of the womens game in England, including the equal pay and revamp of womens domestic cricket structure in the country, further spoke about how the ECB planned on 2026 and 2027 to be big years of womens cricket in the country. When we got the opportunity to identify within the Future Tours programme where the big global events were gonna be of the ICC, I think that was probably the best part of maybe two or three years ago, actually, that we got that list. Everybody was like, it's the 2026 Women's T20 World Cup that we want to host because it just fits perfectly with where we're gonna be in terms of immediately ahead of the Ashes in 2027. But then also actually, crucially, having had five years of building the audience for women's cricket through The Hundred and England women's team. So look, we're coming into this summer and this tournament in a really, really strong space, and that's actually just in cricket, she said. She also pointed to the broader wave of women's sport success in England as a tailwind - from the Lionesses winning the UEFA Women's Euros at Wembley in 2022 to the Red Roses claiming the Women's Rugby World Cup on home soil at Twickenham in 2025. Like, we're also coming off the back of so much womens sport and you must be aware that we've recently hosted the UEFA Women's Euros in 2022 in the football and the amazing scenes of the Lionesses winning that tournament at Wembley. Then more recently in 2025 with the Women's Rugby World Cup and the Red Roses winning that tournament on home soil. So again, just in terms of the general momentum behind women's sports, this Women's T20 World Cup really couldn't have come at a better time, she said. Beth explained that the pathway now extended from grassroots all the way to the elite professional level - a depth of structure that simply did not exist in 2017. So since then, going into 2017, I think we had 15 professional female cricketers, which were just the England women's team. We now have over 150 female professional cricketers in this country because we've got a fully-fledged professional women's domestic structure with nine fully professional women's domestic teams underpinned by nine semi-professional teams and then a sort of further base underneath that. So we've got the depth of our infrastructure now for women's cricket in the elite pathway is very, very strong. Again, when you go from a playing perspective, if we have a generation of young girls falling in love with women's cricket through this tournament and being inspired by what they see, we've got an infrastructure now that is ready with open arms to capture them, she said. The tournament also has grassroots ambitions, with a target of getting 500,000 women and girls to pick up a bat and ball this summer through club Spirit parties, open days and taster sessions across England and Wales. That will start with what we're doing in the recreational game and through the tournament, we're gonna have a series of activities and initiatives. So we're calling them Spirit parties because the whole campaign for the tournament is to catch the spirit because that's the infectious nature of a Women's World Cup, but combined with a special kind of soul of women's cricket and how it's different and unique and special from the men's game. So recreational clubs will be hosting Spirit parties and we've given them various resources, kind of a series of things like bunting and dressing. Posters and all sorts of things, balloons that they can really decorate their clubhouses with and encourage their communities to come down and watch the Women's T20 World Cup if they can't come along to watch in the venue. So we're calling them Spirit parties because the whole campaign for the tournament is to catch the spirit because that's the infectious nature of a Women's World Cup, but combined with a special kind of soul of women's cricket and how it's different and unique and special from the men's game. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Then we've got that pathway - so that in the elite pathway, our talented players can really progress through that and aspire to be professional cricketers. Again, that probably wasn't quite the case in 2017, we weren't quite there. But 2017 was very much the spark that ignited, I guess, the platform to put everything in place that means that we're going into 2026 with a really, really, really strong proposition to hopefully create an even stronger foundation for women's cricket, she concluded. Article Source: IANS
Thailand, Hong Kong, UAE And Indonesia Secure Women's Asia Cup Berth
Captain Ni Putu Ayu Nanda: Thailand, Hong Kong, the UAE and Indonesia confirmed their places in the Womens T20 Asia Cup later this year after registering comfortable victories in the quarter-finals of the ACC Womens Premier Cup on Thursday. All four teams had topped their respective groups during the league stage and carried that momentum into the knockout rounds, producing commanding performances to book both semi-final berths and qualification for the continental tournament. Thailand continued their unbeaten run with a convincing 56-run victory over Nepal in Kuala Lumpur. Wicketkeeper-batter Nannapat Koncharoenkai starred with a composed 62 as Thailand posted 130 for 4. Their bowlers then took control, restricting Nepal to 74 for 7 to seal a one-sided win, according to ESPNCricinfo. The UAE also enjoyed a comfortable outing against hosts Malaysia. Powered by an unbeaten 65 from Theertha Satish, the UAE amassed 138 for 2 before their bowlers limited Malaysia to 86 for 5, securing a 52-run triumph. In Bangi, Hong Kong overcame Japan by 41 runs thanks to an all-round display. Yasmin Daswani anchored the innings with an unbeaten 55 off just 36 deliveries, while Maryam Bibi (3/17) and Marina Lamplough (2/11) played key roles in dismantling Japans chase. The UAE also enjoyed a comfortable outing against hosts Malaysia. Powered by an unbeaten 65 from Theertha Satish, the UAE amassed 138 for 2 before their bowlers limited Malaysia to 86 for 5, securing a 52-run triumph. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The semi-finals will see Thailand face Indonesia, while Hong Kong take on the UAE in Kuala Lumpur on Friday. Although the participating teams have now been confirmed, the schedule for the Womens T20 Asia Cup is yet to be announced. Article Source: IANS
Yashbardhan Chauhan To Lead India U19 Squads For Sri Lanka Tour
Yashbardhan Singh Chauhan: Yashbardhan Singh Chauhan will be leading India men's U-19 team for the upcoming tour of Sri Lanka, which comprises three One-Day matches and two Multi-Day fixtures, scheduled to begin next month. Lakshya Raichandani will serve as Chauhan's deputy as the BCCI named squads for both one-day and multi-day fixtures. The white-ball leg of the tour kicks off on July 4 in Hambantota, which will host all three one-day matches. Following the limited-overs series, the team will transition to red-ball cricket for two multi-day matches. The first multi-day game is slated to be played in Galle from July 13 to 16, while the final fixture of the tour will take place in Colombo from July 20 to 23. Rajat Baghel and Anvay Dravid have been handed the gloves for the One-Day squad, whereas Manav Krishna and Aryan Sandesh Sakpal will take over wicketkeeping duties for the multi-day games. India Mens U19 One-Day squad: Sagar Virk, Lakshya Raichandani (VC), Yashbardhan Singh Chauhan (C), Vineeth V K, Arjun Rajput, Kushagra Ojha, Rajat Baghel (WK), Anvay Dravid (WK), Anmoljeet Singh, Vutkuri Yashveer Goud, Rohit Anil Yadav, Shavin V, Kavya Paresh Patel, Mohit Ulva, Ishan Sood India Mens U19 multi-day squad: Sagar Virk, Lakshya Raichandani (VC), Yashbardhan Singh Chauhan (C), Patel Kush, Manal Chauhan, Kushagra Ojha, Manav Krishna (WK), Aryan Sandesh Sakpal (WK), Hemchudeshan J, BK Kishore, Rohit Anil Yadav, Kavya Paresh Patel, Priyanshu Singh, Pranav Raghvendra, Chigurupati Venkata Earlier, the Women's Selection Committee picked the Womens U19 squads for the Sri Lanka Womens U19 Tour of India, which will comprise three T20 matches and three One-Day matches, fromJune 20 to July 6. The three T20s will be played in Chennai while Puducherry will host One-day games. Schedule: 1st One-Day: July 4 in Hambantota 2nd One-Day July 6 in Hambantota 3rd One-Day July 9 in Hambantota 2nd One-Day July 6 in Hambantota Also Read: Live Cricket Score 2nd 1st Multi-Day: July 23-26 in Colombo Article Source: IANS
'One Last Dance': Five Icons Set For Their FIFA World Cup Swansong
One Last Dance: As the FIFA World Cup 2026 approaches, fans around the world are preparing for a month of unforgettable moments and dramatic finishes, but beyond the race for footballs biggest prize, the tournament is also expected to mark the end of an era. For several of the games most celebrated names, this World Cup could be the final chapter of careers that have inspired millions and defined a generation of football. Some have already lifted the trophy, others are still chasing the one achievement, but all will step onto the field knowing this could be their last appearance on the sports grandest stage. Here are five football legends who are likely playing their final FIFA World Cup. 1. Lionel Messi (Argentina) After completing footballs ultimate dream by leading Argentina to World Cup glory in 2022, Lionel Messi returns for what is expected to be his final appearance at the tournament. The eight-time Ballon dOr winner ended decades of debate by lifting the trophy in Qatar and now has a chance to achieve another historic feat, helping Argentina become the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the World Cup title. Regardless of how far Argentina go, Messis legacy as one of footballs greatest players is already secure. 2. Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal) Few athletes have redefined longevity quite like Cristiano Ronaldo. The Portuguese superstar has enjoyed a remarkable international career spanning more than two decades and remains his countrys biggest inspiration. The World Cup is the only major trophy missing from Ronaldos collection, making 2026 one final opportunity to complete footballs ultimate challenge. At 41, he enters the tournament knowing every match could be his last on the World Cup stage. 3. Luka Modric (Croatia) Luka Modric has been the symbol of Croatias rise as a football powerhouse. From guiding his nation to the 2018 final to another podium finish in 2022, the midfield maestro has consistently delivered on the biggest occasions. Now 40, Modric remains Croatias leader and creative force. A strong run in 2026 would provide a fitting farewell to one of the finest midfielders the game has ever seen. 4. Thomas Muller (Germany) A World Cup winner in 2014 and one of Germanys greatest tournament performers, Thomas Mller has built a reputation for thriving under pressure. His intelligence, movement and knack for producing decisive moments have made him a fan favourite for more than a decade. As Germany look to reclaim their place among footballs elite, the 36-year-old will hope to sign off with one final memorable campaign. 5. Neymar (Brazil) His intelligence, movement and knack for producing decisive moments have made him a fan favourite for more than a decade. As Germany look to reclaim their place among footballs elite, the 36-year-old will hope to sign off with one final memorable campaign. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Neymar, Brazil's all-time leading scorer with 79 goals in 128 international matches, has not played for Brazil since suffering a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament in October 2023. However, he has been included in the squad and would look to turn things around for Brazil, who are searching for their sixth FIFA World Cup trophy in 24 years. Article Source: IANS
Rohit, Virat's Presence An Advantage For Captain Gill In 2027 WC: Raina
ODI World Cup: Former India batter Suresh Raina touched upon the importance of ODI skipper Shubman Gill having veterans Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma's experience by his side in the 2027 World Cup, saying, The presence of experience from the two veterans can make all the difference. Kohli and Rohit, who have retired from T20I and Test cricket, remain exclusively active in ODIs. During the 2019 ODI World Cup, Rohit was the top scorer with 648 runs in nine games at an average of 81.00 with five hundreds and a half-century. He also became the first batsman in World Cup history to score five centuries in a single edition. In the 2023 edition, Kohli was the leading run-scorer, amassing a historic 765 runs in 11 innings. Sachin Tendulkar's record (673 runs) for most runs in a single edition. Kohli was named the Player of the Tournament. Physical and mental preparation will be key for Virat Kohli. He looks very strong in white-ball cricket. The same goes for Rohit Sharma. Both are proven run-scorers in ICC World Cups. Rohit topped the run charts in 2019, and Virat did the same in 2023. They have also won ICC trophies, which adds immense value to their leadership and presence. They know how to handle pressure in knockout games. They have been there, done that, Raina said on JioStar. Experience matters in big tournaments. The young batters around them will benefit from their guidance. For Shubman Gill, captaining India in a World Cup, having Rohit and Virat alongside him will be a huge advantage. Their experience will be invaluable on and off the field. In a high-pressure tournament like the World Cup, that kind of presence can make all the difference, he added. Meanwhile, former spinner and coach Anil Kumble praised Gill for not letting the captaincy affect his batting. Shubman Gill is a very experienced captain. We have seen it in the IPL, he has rotated his bowlers well, used his spinners at the right time, and handled pressure situations with clarity. His form with the bat has not dipped. Sometimes, when players take up the captaincy role, they go through a dip in form. That is not the case with Shubman. He does not let the pressure of captaincy affect his batting. What helps him is the presence of experienced players around him. The Indian ODI team is very strong. Having players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma on the field helps him read the game better. They can guide him with field placements, bowling changes, and key tactical decisions. Shreyas Iyer is now the T20I captain, and he can share his inputs as well. So, Shubman doesn't have to carry the burden alone. He has the right mindset and the right people around him to succeed, he said. Shubman Gill is a very experienced captain. We have seen it in the IPL, he has rotated his bowlers well, used his spinners at the right time, and handled pressure situations with clarity. His form with the bat has not dipped. Sometimes, when players take up the captaincy role, they go through a dip in form. That is not the case with Shubman. He does not let the pressure of captaincy affect his batting. What helps him is the presence of experienced players around him. Also Read: Live Cricket Score However, Kohli has been ruled out of the upcoming three-ODI series against Afghanistan after injuring his hamstring during Royal Challengers Bengaluru's run to the IPL 2026 title last week. Yashasvi Jaiswal has replaced him in the squad. Article Source: IANS
Women's T20 WC: Australia Coach Nitschke 'hopeful' For Litchfield To Play Opener Amid Injury Concern
T20 World Cup: Australia's preparations for the ICC Women's T20 World Cup have been clouded by a fitness concern surrounding Phoebe Litchfield, but the defending champions remain optimistic that the young batter will be available for their opening fixture against South Africa. Litchfield did not feature in Australia's warm-up games after experiencing discomfort in her quad, prompting team management to take a cautious approach ahead of their campaign opener. With the six-time champions set to begin their quest for a record seventh title in Manchester on Saturday, head coach Shelley Nitschke expressed confidence that the left-hander would be ready when it matters most. Yeah, we hope so. Obviously, she had some quad awareness, and it was just on the conservative side to leave her out of these two games. But we're hopeful that she's going to be able to take her place in the side for the first round (match), Nitschke said when asked whether Litchfield would be available for their T20 WC opener. Australia head into the tournament with momentum after closing out their warm-up schedule with a comfortable six-wicket victory over the West Indies in Cardiff. While Litchfield remained on the sidelines, the batting unit showed few signs of disruption, with Georgia Voll producing an aggressive 77 at the top of the order, supported by Beth Mooney's 34. The bowling attack was equally effective, with seven different players sharing the wickets, further underlining the depth available to the Australian camp ahead of the World Cup. That depth, however, has posed a different challenge for Nitschke as she works towards finalising her starting XI for the clash against South Africa. Australia head into the tournament with momentum after closing out their warm-up schedule with a comfortable six-wicket victory over the West Indies in Cardiff. While Litchfield remained on the sidelines, the batting unit showed few signs of disruption, with Georgia Voll producing an aggressive 77 at the top of the order, supported by Beth Mooney's 34. Also Read: Live Cricket Score As the countdown to the tournament opener enters its final stages, Australia will spend the next two days monitoring Litchfield's recovery. The early indications are encouraging, but her fitness remains one of the key storylines ahead of the six-time champions' highly anticipated clash against the Proteas. Article Source: IANS
Giants Under Pressure In Open Women's T20 World Cup
The Women's T20 World Cup starts on Friday when hosts England face Sri Lanka in Birmingham, with at least one leading nation guaranteed an early exit from what promises to be an unusually open tournament. A 12-team competition where the teams are split into two pools of six ought to be without a 'group of death'. But women's cricket heavyweights Australia, India and South Africa are all in Group One and, with only the top two advancing to the semi-finals, one of the trio will be heading home before a knockout phase that culminates in a Lord's final on July 5. A Group Two featuring defending champions New Zealand and England looks more straightforward, albeit both teams will be wary of the West Indies, tournament winners back in 2016 but rarely hitting such heights in recent times. Meanwhile, Ireland, Scotland and the Netherlands will all fly the flag for European cricket alongside established Asian nations such as Pakistan and Sri Lanka. The growth of white-ball competitions such as Australia's Big Bash, England's Hundred and India's Women's Premier League means top female cricketers are now exposed to top-level competition outside of major international tournaments as never before. Australia have dominated the women's game for decades, but for the first time since 2018 the six-time T20 champions do not have global silverware to defend. - 'Evolved' - I think it can free us up if we harness that, said Australia captain Sophie Molineux. The last couple of World Cups we've learnt a whole lot from that and been able to implement a few things. I feel like we've really evolved as a team in the last few months. But in appointing left-arm spinner Molineux, troubled by back problems, as skipper in succession to retired all-time great Alyssa Healy, Australia may have created a problem for themselves, with talented leg-spinner Alana King set to be omitted from the team. India are the 50-over world champions and boast some of the best batters in women's cricket in Smriti Mandhana, Yastika Bhatia and Jemimah Rodrigues, with the big-hitting Harmanpreet Kaur leading the side. They have been inconsistent since arriving for a bilateral series with tournament hosts England but remain capable of beating any side on their day, with defiant skipper Kaur, asked by a reporter on Sunday if, at the age of 37, this might be her last global tournament: You think I should stop? South Africa have reached the last three major women's finals but have still recalled two veterans out of retirement in fast bowler Shabnim Ismail and batter Dane van Niekerk. Ismail holds the record for the fastest ball ever bowled in women's international cricket -- 128 kmh (80 mph) against the West Indies in 2016. New Zealand will be bidding farewell to two all-time greats in Suzie Bates and Sophie Devine at this tournament, with Lea Tahuhu also set to retire as well. The surprise champions of 2024, the pressure appears to be off New Zealand this time around. England Women have won every World Cup on home soil but they are without a world title of any kind since their 2017 50-over triumph at Lord's. Charlotte Edwards, a serial winner as England captain, was appointed as coach following the team's humiliating 16-0 loss in the 2024/25 multi-format Ashes. Nevertheless, she has kept faith with many of the same players who were badly exposed in Australia and whose nerve has repeatedly failed them in knockout games. Also Read: Live Cricket Score But Edwards, speaking after announcing an England squad led by all-rounder Nat Sciver-Brunt and featuring 21-year-olds Freya Kemp and Alice Capsey, said: It's a very different side to the one that walked out in the last game of the Ashes... We've seen a real confidence build in those players. A real belief.
India-born Nikhil Chaudhary called into Australia T20 squad
Former Punjab allrounder Chaudhary replaces Travis Head for Bangladesh T20Is after three excellent seasons with Hurricanes in the BBL
Bhavika Ahire To Lead India U19 As BCCI Unveils Squads For SL U19 White-ball Series
U19 World Cup: India's pathway programme for emerging women's cricketers will take centre stage later this month as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the squads and schedule for the upcoming Under-19 white-ball series against Sri Lanka at home. The six-match assignment, comprising three T20s in Chennai and three One-Day matches in Puducherry, is set to provide another important testing ground for players pushing to establish themselves in India's growing youth cricket ecosystem. The announcement highlights Bhavika Ahire's elevation as wicketkeeper-batter and captain in both formats, reflecting her leadership qualities and recent age-group cricket performances. Supporting her will be Mahak Narwase, appointed vice-captain for both the T20 and One-Day teams. This leadership pair will manage a squad composed of players who have progressively advanced through domestic and junior levels. While the selectors have maintained a strong core across both formats, the squads also feature a blend of specialist options tailored to the demands of T20 and 50-over cricket. The continuity suggests a long-term focus on developing combinations and identifying players capable of progressing through the national pathway. Several youngsters have retained the confidence of the selectors across both squads, including Ira Jadhav, Ishwari Awasare, Purva Siwach, Kumari Palak, Kashvi Kandikuppa, Gouri Goyal, Janvi Vikar and Anaadi Tagde. Their inclusion in both formats underlines their growing stature within the junior setup and offers them an opportunity to gain valuable international exposure. The series comes at a significant time for women's age-group cricket, with the Under-19 structure becoming an increasingly important stepping stone toward higher honours. Bilateral contests against overseas opposition provide young players with experiences that domestic cricket alone cannot replicate, including adapting to pressure situations, handling unfamiliar opponents and adjusting to different game scenarios. India's women's cricket system has increasingly benefited from a strong developmental pipeline, with several players successfully transitioning from youth cricket to the senior national side in recent years. The upcoming series against Sri Lanka will therefore be closely watched by selectors and team management as they continue to assess the next wave of talent to build up for the next U19 World Cup. T20 squad: Bhavika Ahire (c & wk), Ira Jadhav, Tanishka Sharma, Ishwari Awasare, Avni Chawda, Mahto Nidhi, Purva Siwach, Kumari Palak, Mahak Narwase (vc), Kashvi Kandikuppa, Maniar Maitri, Gouri Goyal, Janhavi Virkar, Anaadi Tagde, K Deeksha (wk) One-Day squad: Bhavika Ahire (c & wk), Ira Jadhav, Deeya Yadav, Ishwari Awasare, V Pratiksha, Mahto Nidhi, Purva Siwach, Kumari Palak, Mahak Narwase (vc), Kashvi Kandikuppa, Vidhi Parmar, Gouri Goyal, Janhavi Virkar, Anaadi Tagde, K Deeksha (wk) T20I Schedule: June 22: 1st T20 June 24: 2nd T20 June 27: 3rd T20 (All matches to be played in Chennai) ODI Schedule: June 30: 1st OD July 3: 2nd OD June 30: 1st OD Also Read: Live Cricket Score (All matches to be played in Puducherry) Article Source: IANS
FC Barcelona Formally Submit Bid To Host 2029 Champions League Final
Royal Spanish Football Federation: FC Barcelona have announced that they have formally submitted he bid and complete dossier to UEFA to apply for hosting the 2029 UEFA Champions League final. The proposal has been prepared in collaboration with Barcelona City Council, the Government of Catalonia and with the support of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), as host and co-organising association. FC Barcelona, together with Barcelona City Council, the Government of Catalonia and with the support of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), as host and co-organising association, has formally submitted to UEFA the bid and complete dossier to apply for hosting the 2029 UEFA Champions League Final, the La Liga club said in a statement. It said that he submitted documentation includes all the technical, contractual and institutional requirements demanded by UEFA, as well as the necessary guarantees to demonstrate the organisational capacity of the Spotify Camp Nou and the city of Barcelona to host one of the most important sporting events in the world. With the submission of this dossier, the formal bidding process is completed. The decision now moves into UEFAs hands, with the organisation set to begin he evaluation phase of the different proposals submitted to determine which venue will be selected to host the 2029 Champions League final. The designation of the host venue for the 2029 UEFA Champions League Final is scheduled for the last quarter of this year. The bid highlights Barcelona as a city with proven experience in hosting major international events and the Camp Nou as a world-class stadium. The venue has historically been recognised by UEFA as a top-category stadium and is the largest in Europe by capacity. The designation of the host venue for the 2029 UEFA Champions League Final is scheduled for the last quarter of this year. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Budapest hosted the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League final at the Puskas Arena on Saturday, May 30. The historic match was contested between French club Paris Saint-Germain and English club Arsenal, marking the first time Hungary had ever staged a European Cup final. Article Source: IANS
Happy To Contribute In Ujjain Falcons' Win, Says Madhav Tiwari On Win Against Bhopal Leopards In MPL
Madhya Pradesh League: Ujjain Falcons all-rounder Madhav Tiwari was pleased after his crucial contribution led to the team's 16-run win against Bhopal Leopards in the Madhya Pradesh League (MPL) T20 Scindia Cup 2026 at Holkar Stadium on Wednesday. Madhav Tiwari delivered an outstanding all-round performance, staying unbeaten on 61 off 28 balls to help Ujjain Falcons reach 195/8, before taking 2/26 in four overs. He also became the new Orange Cap holder, scoring 194 runs in four matches. Madhav reflected that the win was vital for the team's campaign following a mixed beginning to the tournament. The most important thing for us was getting this win because it gives us the momentum we needed in the tournament. We started well, then had a few close losses, so it was important to bounce back strongly. The atmosphere in the dressing room remained positive throughout. Our coach, support staff and management were very supportive, and everyone was focused on making a comeback, he said. The young player also discussed his strategy during his unbeaten innings, which contributed to the Falcons setting a difficult total. Personally, while batting, my focus was on spending some time in the middle and understanding the wicket. Once I got settled, I was able to play my shots and finish the innings well. Most importantly, Im happy that my contribution helped the team get over the line, he added. The young player also discussed his strategy during his unbeaten innings, which contributed to the Falcons setting a difficult total. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The Falcons made a strong return to winning ways in the tournament, beating Bhopal Leopards by 16 runs here at the Holkar Stadium on Wednesday. Madhav capped off a memorable all-round performance by picking up two wickets for 26 runs in his four-over spell. Article Source: IANS
Womens T20 WC: Aakash Chopra Feels India Will 'have To Go Through A Trial By Fire' In Group Stage
T20 World Cup: Former India opener Aakash Chopra believes India's quest for the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 title will be shaped by a demanding group-stage campaign, but he sees the challenge as a necessary test for a team aspiring to become world champions. Drawn alongside heavyweight opponents Australia and South Africa, India face one of the tournament's toughest paths to the knockout stages. Chopra, however, argued that there is no easy route to lifting a World Cup. You will have to beat either South Africa or Australia. If you're not in this group, then you'll get New Zealand and England. So, you are going to be up against at least two formidable opponents. And if you want to win the World Cup, you will have to go through a trial by fire, Chopra told JioStar. While acknowledging the difficulty of the group, Chopra pointed to India's schedule as a potential advantage. With matches against Pakistan and the Netherlands preceding the clash against South Africa, he believes India will have an opportunity to build momentum before facing their biggest tests. But the good thing is that by the time India play South Africa, their campaign will be well underway, having hopefully won a couple of games already against Pakistan and the Netherlands, he stated. Chopra stressed that victories alone may not be enough in a tightly contested group, urging India to target convincing wins against the lower-ranked teams to strengthen their net run rate. Ideally, what should happen is that you win against Bangladesh, the Netherlands and Pakistan by a good margin, so the net run rate is also on your side, he noted. The former batter also outlined what he believes would be the ideal scenario heading into India's meeting with six-time champions Australia, as he said, You need to have your campaign peak in a fashion that by the time you meet Australia, you're almost through, and the pressure is on the opposition. Beyond the group's competitive landscape, Chopra highlighted a significant change in India's batting identity, claiming the side now possesses the explosive firepower that was previously missing from its T20 arsenal. According to Chopra, India's inability to consistently match other teams in the six-hitting department had often been a factor behind their struggles in major T20 tournaments. We have a strong batting unit. There was always a discussion about why India used to fall short in T20 cricket, because the other teams had the ability to hit more sixes. We were still more of a four-hitting team. According to Chopra, India's inability to consistently match other teams in the six-hitting department had often been a factor behind their struggles in major T20 tournaments. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With power-hitters spread throughout the batting order, Chopra feels India are now better equipped to meet the demands of modern T20 cricket. He said, So, you have plenty of six-hitters across your playing XI. Given the demands of modern T20 cricket, this is a must-have ability in your side. Article Source: IANS
Delhi-born All-rounder Nikhil Chaudhary Added To Australia Squad For Bangladesh T20I
Bangladesh T20I: Australia have added Delhi-born uncapped spinner Nikhil Chaudhary to their squad for their upcoming T20I series against Bangladesh. The 30-year-old drafted into the squad following Travis Heads withdrawal on personal leave. Chaudhary could become the only Indian born player to play for Australia in more than 60 years after the Hobart Hurricanes all-rounder was called up for the T20I series against Bangladesh. Chaudhary, currently playing for JB Bruges in the EUT20 competition in Belgium after a stint with Delhi Capitals in the IPL, is set to join the Australian squad in Dhaka on Friday. Born in Delhi before moving Down Under at the start of the decade,the leg-spin all-rounder will compete for a middle-order berth with the likes of Joel Davies and Aaron Hardie, who are also in the T20I squad only. Australia selector Tony Dodemaide is confident the bowling all-rounder can perform well should he win selection. Nikhil has been a player of national interest for some time. He was a standby player for this tour, joining the squad at pre-season camps in Brisbane and comes in as a replacement for Travis Head, Dodemaide said. The panel has been impressed by his BBL form, particularly last season, leading to his addition to the squad. He has also been part of the Delhi Capitals setup in this years IPL. Nikhil will gain invaluable experience in Bangladesh and will be in contention to play his first game for Australia when we sit down to pick a team for the opening T20 fixture here next week, he added. Born in Delhi, Chaudhary played 14 limited-overs games for the state side Punjab alongside the likes of Harbhajan Singh, Shubman Gill and Abhishek Sharma, and trialled with the IPL side Mumbai Indians. He was visiting an uncle in Queensland when the pandemic shut international borders, seeing him pivot to furthering his cricket ambitions in Australia. Born in Delhi, Chaudhary played 14 limited-overs games for the state side Punjab alongside the likes of Harbhajan Singh, Shubman Gill and Abhishek Sharma, and trialled with the IPL side Mumbai Indians. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Australia T20I squad: Mitchell Marsh(c), Xavier Bartlett, Nikhil Chaudhary, Cooper Connolly, Tim David, Joel Davies, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Aaron Hardie, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Matthew Kuhnemann, Riley Meredith, Josh Philippe, Matthew Renshaw, Adam Zampa. Article Source: IANS
AFI To Host Inaugural Indian Athletic Awards On June 20 In New Delhi
AFI Senior Vice President Anju: The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) will host the inaugural edition of the Indian Athletic Awards on June 20 in Delhi, to recognise excellence in Indian athletics. The awards have been conceptualised as a platform to honour current and former athletes, coaches, technical officials, mentors, state associations, sponsors, and all other stakeholders whose contributions have played a vital role in Indias growing success on the global athletics stage, AFI said in a release. The ceremony will honour excellence across 10 award categories, including Lifetime Achievement Awards, Best Athlete (Male & Female), Best Coach, Best Technical Official, Best State Association and Best State Supporting Athletics. AFI president Bahadur Singh Sagoo said: Indian athletics has witnessed a lot of growth over the last few years, with our athletes delivering strong performances on the global stage. The Indian Athletic Awards are a celebration of not only medal winners, but also the coaches, officials, mentors, associations and institutions that work tirelessly behind the scenes to strengthen the sport in the country. We look forward to honouring individuals who continue to inspire the next generation of athletes. Most of Indias leading current and former athletes are expected to be part of the event, making it a significant gathering for the Indian athletics fraternity and a celebration of the sports rapid rise in the country. AFI Senior Vice President Anju Bobby George said: This awards ceremony serves to honour the commitment and resilience demonstrated at all levels of Indian athletics. From promising newcomers to established champions and their vital support networks, every effort plays a crucial role in fostering a robust sporting culture. Indian athletics is poised for an exhilarating chapter, and these awards will pay tribute to the individuals who are instrumental in shaping this journey. Olympic and World Championships medallist Neeraj Chopra said, To boost the morale and confidence of young Indian athletes, initiatives like the Indian Athletic Awards are extremely important. Recognising and celebrating the hard work of athletes, coaches and support staff motivates the entire sporting ecosystem and inspires the next generation to dream bigger and perform better for the country. The awards to be presented during the event include- Best Male Athlete of the Year: 2025 Best Female Athlete of the Year: 2025 Best Coach of the Year: 2025 Life-time Achievement Athletics Award (3 Awards) Best State Association of the Year: 2025 Best Technical Official of the Year: 2025 Best State Supporting Athletics Best Technical Official of the Year: 2025 Also Read: Live Cricket Score Partner supporting Athletics Article Source: IANS
When Smriti Scores, India Wins; We've Seen Her Do Well In WCs: Veda
T20 World Cup: Former India batter Veda Krishnamurthy believes that vice-captain Smriti Mandhana could hold the key to India's hopes at the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026, insisting that the star opener's performances in the biggest matches could determine whether the trophy finally returns home. Mandhana heads into the tournament as one of the most experienced and accomplished batters in the Indian setup, and Veda said her ability to deliver on the grandest stage makes her indispensable to the team's title ambitions. When Smriti scores, India wins. So, she knows that it is very important for her to score in those big games. We've seen her do well in World Cups. She has done well in England and is one of those batters who scores runs all around the globe, Veda told JioStar. With India set to face some of the strongest sides in women's cricket during the tournament, Veda highlighted the importance of Mandhana producing match-defining knocks against elite opposition. So, I hope she does well in all the games, but more importantly, in the big games, against South Africa, against Australia, and hopefully in the semi-final and the final. Because if she scores big in those games, the cup is definitely coming home, she said. Vedas confidence in India's chances extends beyond Mandhana's form. The former batter also expressed strong support for the squad selected for the global event, describing it as the strongest available group despite a handful of injury-enforced absences. Definitely the best available squad was picked. Of course, a couple of players missed out because of injury. But apart from that, I cannot put a finger on anyone and say they deserved to be there or would have made a difference to the squad, Veda noted. India's selectors have also opted to back experience, recalling players who have spent extended periods away from the national setup. Veda believes those decisions could prove crucial in a high-pressure tournament environment. It's a perfectly balanced squad. There have been a couple of comebacks. They were out for a really long time, but the selectors have trusted their experience, she mentioned. India's selectors have also opted to back experience, recalling players who have spent extended periods away from the national setup. Veda believes those decisions could prove crucial in a high-pressure tournament environment. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I think the World Cup victory is going to play a huge part because, after that, not just Harmanpreet, but the entire team, when you talk to them, the positivity and the aura they have been carrying, there is a lot of confidence. They have realised that they are capable of achieving certain things, and that belief is very important when you go into a World Cup, Veda said. Article Source: IANS
Australia Revise Women's NZ, BAN Home Series Schedule To Accommodate Champions Trophy
ODI World Cup: Cricket Australia has overhauled its women's international schedule for next summer after the ICC's decision to bring forward the inaugural Women's Champions Trophy created a significant clash in the calendar. The governing body was forced to revise a slate of home fixtures following the ICC's announcement that the tournament, originally earmarked for June, would instead be played in February. The reshuffle has resulted in New Zealand splitting its Australian tour into two separate visits, while Australia's women's home season has been trimmed from 12 matches to nine. The revised program, however, has handed the Australian women a prominent role in the lead-up to the men's 150th Anniversary Test at the MCG, with a pair of ODIs against New Zealand scheduled in Melbourne during the historic week. Under the new arrangement, New Zealand will travel to Australia in October for a three-match T20I series before returning in March for a three-match ODI campaign. The October leg replaces a previously scheduled T20I series against Bangladesh, although the venues and timing remain unchanged. Australia's ODI commitments against both Bangladesh and New Zealand have been retained due to their significance in the Women's World Championship, which also serves as the qualification pathway for the next Women's ODI World Cup. The March ODI series against New Zealand will form part of a marquee week for Australian cricket. Junction Oval will host the second and third ODIs of the series, including a day-night international on March 8, which coincides with International Women's Day and Victoria's Labour Day public holiday. The fixture will also be the first full international match played under the venue's newly installed floodlights. The third and final ODI is scheduled for March 10, just 24 hours before the opening day of the 150th Anniversary Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The scheduling changes came from the ICC's decision to move the Women's Champions Trophy into an already crowded February window, forcing Cricket Australia to revisit plans that had initially accommodated bilateral series against both Bangladesh and New Zealand within a single home summer. Meanwhile, Junction Oval could also play a role in England's preparations for the anniversary Test. Although not yet officially confirmed, plans are understood to include a pink-ball warm-up fixture for England's Test squad. The proposal follows criticism of England's lead-up to the most recent Ashes series, when much of the touring party opted not to play in the day-night Prime Minister's XI match in Canberra. The scheduling changes came from the ICC's decision to move the Women's Champions Trophy into an already crowded February window, forcing Cricket Australia to revisit plans that had initially accommodated bilateral series against both Bangladesh and New Zealand within a single home summer. Also Read: Live Cricket Score We're particularly excited that womens cricket will feature prominently in the lead up to the 150th Anniversary Test with the historic first international match under lights at Junction Oval. We are thankful to Bangladesh and NZ for their cooperation and understanding particularly NZ for agreeing to travel to Australia twice, he said. Article Source: IANS
Australia opt to bat, Meredith called in, Soumya returns
Meredith will play his first ODI in five years having been added to the squad on match morning as he was previously only in the T20I squad
Women's T20 Asia Cup: Thailand, Hong Kong, Indonesia and UAE qualify
The four teams won their respective quarter-finals at the ACC Women's Premier Cup to make the cut for the continental tournament
Australia change NZ and Bangladesh schedules due to women's Champions Trophy
New Zealand to tour twice in October and March due to February Champions Trophy while Bangladesh T20Is have been scrapped
MPL T20 Scindia Cup 2026: Ujjain Falcons Return To Winning Ways; Rewa Jaguars Seal Commanding Win
Madhya Pradesh League: Ujjain Falcons made a strong return to winning ways in the Madhya Pradesh League (MPL) T20 Scindia Cup 2026, defeating Bhopal Leopards by 16 runs at the Holkar Stadium in Indore on Wednesday. Batting first, the Falcons posted an impressive 195/8 in their 20 overs, powered by half-centuries from Yash Dubey and Madhav Tiwari. Despite losing a few early wickets, Dubey and Harshvardhan Hardia steadied the innings with a crucial 53-run partnership. Dubey played a fluent knock of 54 off 31 deliveries before his dismissal triggered a brief collapse in the middle overs. With the innings at a critical stage, Madhav Tiwari, who is now the new Orange Cap-holder with 194 runs in four matches to his name, took charge and anchored the Falcons recovery. The all-rounder remained unbeaten on 61 off just 28 balls, smashing four sixes and providing the late acceleration. He was well supported by Ojaswa Yadav and Rishi Miglani, who chipped in with handy cameos of 15 off 10 and 15 off 9, respectively, helping Ujjain finish with a formidable total. For Bhopal Leopards, Himanshu Shinde was the standout performer with the ball, returning remarkable figures of 2/2 from a single over. In reply, Bhopal Leopards got off to a promising start through an opening partnership of 60 runs. However, the momentum shifted after Rahul Chandrols dismissal for a quickfire 31 off 13 balls. The Leopards struggled to rebuild thereafter, losing wickets at regular intervals, with Tanishq Yadav, who top-scored with 42 off 27, also going back in the hut. The side eventually finished at 179/7 in their allotted 20 overs. Madhav Tiwari capped off a memorable all-round performance by picking up two wickets for 26 runs in his four-over spell, while Aayush Mankar, who became the new Purple Cap holder, also impressed with figures of 2/25 from four overs as the Falcons sealed a convincing 16-run victory. Reflecting on the win, Tiwari said, The most important thing for us was getting this win because it gives us the momentum we needed in the tournament. We started well, then had a few close losses, so it was important to bounce back strongly. The atmosphere in the dressing room remained positive throughout. Our coach, support staff, and management were very supportive, and everyone was focused on making a comeback. Personally, while batting, my focus was on spending some time in the middle and understanding the wicket. Once I got settled, I was able to play my shots and finish the innings well. Most importantly, Im happy that my contribution helped the team get over the line, he added. Rewa Jaguars vs Indore Pink Panthers Rewa Jaguars produced a commanding all-round performance to defeat Indore Pink Panthers by 31 runs at Daly College, Indore. Batting first, Rewa Jaguars scored 209/5 in 20 overs, powered by brilliant knocks from Anant Verma and Sagar Solanki (60 runs in 28 balls). After a steady start from captain Prithviraj Singh Tomar (22) and Akshat Raghuwanshi (18), the Jaguars accelerated through the middle overs. Wicketkeeper-batter Anant Verma anchored the innings with a superb unbeaten 71 off 37 balls, smashing four boundaries and five sixes. He was well supported by Sagar Solanki, who played a scintillating knock of 60 off just 28 deliveries, striking five fours and five sixes. Their aggressive partnership helped Rewa cross the 200-run mark and set a daunting target. Batting first, Rewa Jaguars scored 209/5 in 20 overs, powered by brilliant knocks from Anant Verma and Sagar Solanki (60 runs in 28 balls). After a steady start from captain Prithviraj Singh Tomar (22) and Akshat Raghuwanshi (18), the Jaguars accelerated through the middle overs. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Rewa Jaguars' bowlers struck at crucial intervals to keep the Panthers under pressure. Ankit Kushwaha led the attack with 3 wickets, while Ramveer Gujjar, Rohit Rajawat, and captain Prithviraj Singh Tomar picked up two wickets each. Article Source: IANS
T20 Mumbai League: Deshpande's Late Six Blitz After Ayaz 87 Helps Maratha Royals Seal Semis Spot
But Ayaz Ahmed Khan: Tushar Deshpande smashed three sixes in four balls to seal a semifinal berth for defending champions MSC Maratha Royals after their five-wicket win over Arcs Andheri in the T20 Mumbai League 2026 at the Wankhede Stadium on Wednesday. Deshpande had earlier claimed 2-39 and, along with Irfan Umair (2-27) and Atharva Bhosale (2-35), helped Maratha Royals bundle out Arcs Andheri for 168 in 20 overs. In reply, Maratha Royals rode on a superb 87 by Ayaz Khan and late heroics by Deshpande romped to 170/5 in 18.2 overs to seal victory in what was a must-win match for them. Chasing the modest target, the Royals were off to a poor start as they lost openers Sahil Jadhav (0) and Siddhesh Lad (9) cheaply and were tottering at 41/2. But Ayaz Ahmed Khan struck his maiden half-century in the T20 Mumbai League, rescuing the Maratha Royals from a difficult situation and taking them to safety. Khan shared a 62-run partnership in just 45 balls for the third wicket with Om Bangar (29), taking them into three figures when the latter was out. Arjun Amit Dani (3) was out early, but Ayaz Khan found another willing partner in Maxwell David Swaminathan (18 off 16) as they shared a 44-run partnership for the fifth wicket, Ayaz Khan was finally out for 87 off 49 balls, studded with seven fours and half a dozen sixes to keep the team in the chase. Deshpande then sealed the semi spot with his six-hitting heroics as he remained unbeaten on 20 off six balls. Earlier, Musheer Ahmed Khan slammed a 36-ball 62, but Arcs Andheri lost wickets at regular intervals to some disciplined bowling by the Maratha Royals bowlers to reach 168 before being bowled out. While Musheer kept one end going, Andheri lost Divyansh Saxena (2), Arjun Tendulkar (14), Pragnesh Kanpille (14), skipper Prasad Pawar (1), and Ayush Jethwa (3) cheaply as they reached 103/6 when Musheer got out. Gaurav Jathar (22) and Moin Ahmed (28) ensured they reached a respectable total. For Maratha Royals, besides Deshpande, Irfan Umair and Atharva Bhosale, Swaminathan and Aditya Dhumal also claimed two wickets each. On Thursday (June 11), Arcs Andheri will face Aakash Tigers MWS in the first semifinal, while North Mumbai Panthers will meet MSC Maratha Royals in the second semifinal. Gaurav Jathar (22) and Moin Ahmed (28) ensured they reached a respectable total. For Maratha Royals, besides Deshpande, Irfan Umair and Atharva Bhosale, Swaminathan and Aditya Dhumal also claimed two wickets each. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Arcs Andheri 168 all out in 20 overs (Musheer Khan 62, Moin Ahmed 28; Irfan Umair 2-27, Atharva Bhosale 2-35, Tushar Deshpande 2-39) lost to MSC Maratha Royals 170/5 in 18.2 overs (Ayaz Khan 87, Om Bangar 29, Tushar Deshpande 20 not out; Prasoon Angad Singh 3-26) by five wickets. Article Source: IANS
Ashwin sees 'no reason' why Kohli and Rohit shouldn't play 2027 ODI World Cup
Till you have experienced cricketers like Virat and Rohit, going for an away World Cup, you should extract as much experience as you can from those, Ashwin said
Lawrence's latest hundred not enough for Surrey win - or England call-up
Lawrence launches 64-ball ton but Hampshire dig in for rain-affected draw at The Oval
Root rides again in moment of crisis as England pay the price for optics
Calm but reluctant ex-captain steps up to avoid nonsensical prospect of Brook deputising for Stokes
FIFA World Cup: Iran Warns To Halt Matches Over Unauthorised Flags And Anti-team Slogans
Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali: Iran has warned it could stop its World Cup matches if unauthorised flags are displayed or slogans targeting the national team are chanted inside stadiums, according to reports in Iranian media citing Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali. The warning comes just days before Iran starts its Group G campaign at the World Cup, which begins on Thursday. Iran will face New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15, Belgium at the same venue on June 21, and Egypt in Seattle on June 26. We have informed FIFA that if unofficial flags are brought or slogans against the national team are chanted in the stadiums where Iran plays in the World Cup, the team manager will definitely be responsible for stopping the match, Donyamali said on Tuesday, according to Iranian media. The minister added that Iranian officials had received assurances about the team's final group-stage fixture. We have been assured that no disruptive incidents will occur in the stadium during the match against Egypt, he said. These comments come amid growing scrutiny of Iran's participation in the tournament. In April, demonstrators gathered outside the FIFA Congress in Vancouver and called for Iran to be excluded from the World Cup. They argued that the national team represented the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps rather than the Iranian people. Iran's match against Egypt has also gained attention after the football associations of both countries reportedly urged FIFA to prevent LGBTQ+ Pride-related activities around the game. Local organisers have designated this match as a Pride Match for Seattle's Pride weekend celebrations. These comments come amid growing scrutiny of Iran's participation in the tournament. In April, demonstrators gathered outside the FIFA Congress in Vancouver and called for Iran to be excluded from the World Cup. They argued that the national team represented the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps rather than the Iranian people. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The team is currently training in Tijuana, Mexico, and has also dealt with travel challenges due to ongoing geopolitical tensions. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security recently confirmed that Iran's squad will be allowed to enter the United States the day before each of its World Cup matches. Article Source: IANS
T20 Mumbai League 2026: Mulchandanis 65 Keeps Falcons In Hunt For Semis Berth
Mumbai South Central Maratha Royals: SOBO Mumbai Falcons kept their semifinal hopes alive with a commanding seven-wicket victory over table-toppers North Mumbai Panthers in the penultimate league-stage match of the T20 Mumbai League 2026 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Wednesday. The defeat, however, had no bearing on the Panthers, who had already booked their place in the last four, winning four out of five matches. Chasing 158 for victory, the Falcons produced a composed batting performance, powered by opener Ishan Mulchandanis fluent 65, to reach the target with 11 balls to spare. The result means the battle for the remaining semi-final berths will now hinge on the outcome of the clash between Arcs Andheri and Mumbai South Central Maratha Royals later tonight. The Falcons made a cautious start, with Mulchandani and Awais Khan (6) adding 26 runs before the latter was trapped leg-before. Mulchandani then combined with Naman Jhawar (22) for a steady 28-run stand, ensuring the chase remained on course. While Jhawar was unable to capitalise on his start, Mulchandani continued to anchor the innings, rotating the strike effectively and punishing loose deliveries. The opener later stitched together a decisive 77-run partnership with Gautam Waghela (45 not out), taking the Falcons within touching distance of victory. Mulchandani eventually departed in the 15th over while attempting a big hit, but not before virtually sealing the contest. His 65-run knock featured two boundaries and five towering sixes. Waghela, along with captain Aditya Tare (10 not out), then calmly guided the Falcons home. Earlier, Panthers were restricted to 157, thanks largely to a superb four-wicket haul from Mayuresh Tandel. After losing an early wicket, Abhigyan Kundu (45) and Anish Chaudhery (32) rebuilt the innings with a 78-run partnership for the second wicket. However, the momentum shifted dramatically after Chaudherys dismissal. Tandel struck at regular intervals to trigger a middle-order collapse, while Kundu too fell short of converting his promising start into a substantial score. The rest of the batting line-up struggled to make an impact as the Panthers were eventually bowled out for 157. Tandel starred with the ball, while Yash Dicholkar (2/17) and Vedant Gore (2/33) chipped in with two wickets each to complete an impressive all-round performance for the Falcons. Semifinals will be played on Thursday. Tandel starred with the ball, while Yash Dicholkar (2/17) and Vedant Gore (2/33) chipped in with two wickets each to complete an impressive all-round performance for the Falcons. Also Read: Live Cricket Score North Mumbai Panthers 157 all out in 19.2 overs (Abhigyan Kundu 45, Anish Chaudhery 32; Mayuresh Tandel 4/30) lost to SOBO Mumbai Falcons 158/3 in 18.1 overs (Ishan Mulchandani 65, Gautam Waghela 45 not out; Pratik Mishra 1/20) by 7 wickets. Article Source: IANS
Joe Root Returns As England Captain After Stokes Left Out Of Second New Zealand Test
Wales Cricket Board: Joe Root will make a surprise return to the England captaincy after Ben Stokes was ruled out of the second Test against New Zealand at The Oval amid an ongoing investigation into an off-field incident involving the England skipper and pace bowler Gus Atkinson. Stokes and Atkinson have both been left out of the squad for breaking the team's midnight curfew early Monday morning. They were at a London nightclub when a member of England's security was reportedly struck by a Saracens rugby player named Totoa Auvaa. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed that neither player would be available for selection while investigations are underway. Given the ongoing investigation, Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson have not been made available for selection for the second Test against New Zealand, said an ECB statement. Although Harry Brook is England's vice-captain, selectors chose Root to lead the team. Brook himself was involved in an off-field incident in New Zealand last October when a bouncer punched him outside a nightclub on the eve of a one-day international. Root's appointment marks a noteworthy return to the role he held from 2017 to 2022. England's all-time leading run-scorer captained the team in a record 64 Tests before stepping down after a tough stretch that included just one win in 17 matches. Stokes, a close friend of Root, took over as captain. England have also added Jofra Archer and Jordan Cox to the squad that achieved a 115-run victory in the opening Test at Lord's. The Cricket Regulator is conducting a separate investigation into the nightclub incident. This process could take several weeks to finish. Stokes, 35, has been given time by the ECB to consider his future options, but the governing body has dismissed claims that he has been asked to resign as captain. This controversy is another blow for English cricket after a disappointing 4-1 Ashes defeat in Australia, a tour that was also marred by off-field issues. England's strong win over New Zealand at Lord's seemed to indicate a positive turnaround, but now they must try to win the series without their captain and top all-rounder, as well as one of their main fast bowlers. While Stokes' batting form has faced criticism in recent months, his contributions go beyond scoring runs. His ability to perform with both bat and ball is crucial for England's balance and strategy. Atkinson, on the other hand, had a challenging winter but showed signs of improvement during the first Test, taking seven wickets in the match. The 28-year-old will now miss the chance to play at his home ground, The Oval. His absence could create an opportunity for Archer, who missed the series opener after returning from his time in the Indian Premier League. England also need to decide on the team's balance. Spin-bowling all-rounder Rehan Ahmed is seen as the most fitting replacement for Stokes and remains in the squad after not playing at Lord's. While Stokes' batting form has faced criticism in recent months, his contributions go beyond scoring runs. His ability to perform with both bat and ball is crucial for England's balance and strategy. Atkinson, on the other hand, had a challenging winter but showed signs of improvement during the first Test, taking seven wickets in the match. The 28-year-old will now miss the chance to play at his home ground, The Oval. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Joe Root (capt), Rehan Ahmed, Jofra Archer, Sonny Baker, Shoaib Bashir, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Jordan Cox, Ben Duckett, Matthew Fisher, Emilio Gay, James Rew, Ollie Robinson, Jamie Smith (wk), Josh Tongue Article Source: IANS
Stokes, Atkinson omitted from second Test as Root steps up as interim captain
England name Jofra Archer and Jordan Cox in rejigged squad after nightclub incident
Womens T20 WC: Richas Fifty In Vain As India Lose Warm-up Match To England By Five Runs
T20 World Cup: Wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh marked a welcome return to her run-scoring best by hitting a blistering 68 off 36 balls and nearly pulled off a remarkable chase for India. But England held their nerve to secure a tense fiverun victory in the 2026 Womens T20 World Cup warm-up match at the Sophia Garden on Wednesday. Before a rain break, Indias bowlers did well to keep a check on Englands scoring rate. But skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt found her rhythm by hitting 57, while wicketkeeper-batter Amy Jones was in fine nick by top-scoring with 64. Danielle Gibson also smashed 30 not out off just 12 balls to take England past 170. Chasing 172, India faltered early and never looked set to complete the chase. But Richa took charge to hit a sensational knock laced with nine fours and two sixes at a strike-rate of 188.89 to almost single-handedly take India home. But her fightback fell agonisingly short as she was stumped on the very next delivery off Linsey Smith, who took the final wicket to seal a thrilling victory for England by bowling out India for 166. While England now turn their attention to the tournament opener against Sri Lanka at Edgbaston on June 12, India will take on Pakistan at the same venue on June 14. Indias chase began with Shafali Vermas brief cameo of 13, brought to a halt when Issy Wong hit her off-stump, while Smriti Mandhana fell cheaply to Linsey Smith. Englands disciplined attack, led by Smith and Tilly CorteenColeman, kept India under pressure as skipper Harmanpreet Kaur (17) and Yastika Bhatia (15) also departed without making significant contributions. Bharti Fulmali (18) and Radha Yadav (16) tried to steady the innings, but wickets at regular intervals left India reeling. With Charlie Deans double strike, including Shreyanka Patil and Kranti Gaud, Indias chase was dented further. Amidst all this, Richa launched a stunning counterattack with her trademark audacious strokeplay, especially when Issy Wong and Lauren Filer faltered in their lines and lengths. Her 33run stand with Radha off just 19 balls revived Indias hopes, and she continued to find boundaries even as partners fell around her. With India needing 17 off the final over, Richa smashed a four and a six off Smith to reduce the equation to a gettable six runs from three balls. But her dismissal stumped by Alice Capsey off Linsey meant the result went in Englands favour. Earlier, Amy gave England a fantastic start to set a solid foundation for Englands competitive total, before Nat took charge with a brilliant knock to power the sides scoring rate through the middle overs, as the duo hit eight boundaries each. Her 33run stand with Radha off just 19 balls revived Indias hopes, and she continued to find boundaries even as partners fell around her. With India needing 17 off the final over, Richa smashed a four and a six off Smith to reduce the equation to a gettable six runs from three balls. But her dismissal stumped by Alice Capsey off Linsey meant the result went in Englands favour. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: England 171/6 in 20 overs (Amy Jones 64, Nat Sciver-Brunt 57; Shreyanka Patil 2-29, Shafali Verma 1-18) beat India 166 all out in 19.5 overs (Richa Ghosh 68, Harmanpreet Kaur 17; Linsey Smith 3-42, Danielle Gibson 2-17) by five runs Article Source: IANS
Airee, Taijul And Mushfiqur Shortlisted For ICC Men's Player Of The Month Award
Cricket World Cup League: Nepal all-rounder Dipendra Singh Airee and Bangladesh duo Taijul Islam and Mushfiqur Rahim have been shortlisted for the ICC Men's Player of the Month award for May following a series of standout performances for their respective teams. On the women's side, England seamer Lauren Bell, Pakistan batter Gull Feroza, and New Zealand's Maddy Green are nominated on the back of some strong performances for their countries throughout international cricket in the month. Airee sealed his spot on the men's shortlist after a productive spell of form in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup League 2 in Kirtipur. The Nepal all-rounder started the month with a century against the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and finished the series having scored 249 runs in six ODIs at an average of 49.80 and strike-rate of 110.66, whilst contributing with eight wickets at an economy of 4.52, a haul of 4 for 24 against the United States, taking best figures. Spinner Taijul Islam was also instrumental for Bangladesh, playing a key role in a historic 2-0 home Test series whitewash over Pakistan. The left-armer was the highest wicket-taker in the series with 13 wickets in two games at an average of 19.61, including 6 for 120 in Pakistan's second innings of the second Test in Sylhet. Batter Mushfiqur Rahim, who was named Player of the Series in the Tests against Pakistan, also picked up a nomination after he hit 235 runs across two Tests at an average of 63.25, including a 71 in the first innings of the first Test and a match-defining 137 in the second Test's second innings. On the women's side, fast bowler Lauren Bell completes England's selections. She was awarded a nomination on the back of some consistent performances in multiple formats of the game before the ICC Women's T20 World Cup. Bell was the leading wicket-taker for England in their ODI series against New Zealand, taking five wickets in three games before adding another eight wickets in four T20 internationals against New Zealand and India. Batter Mushfiqur Rahim, who was named Player of the Series in the Tests against Pakistan, also picked up a nomination after he hit 235 runs across two Tests at an average of 63.25, including a 71 in the first innings of the first Test and a match-defining 137 in the second Test's second innings. Also Read: Live Cricket Score New Zealand's Maddy Green is the third of the female nominees after she took a leading role for her side in a drawn ODI series with England. Green scored 125 runs in three ODIs at a strike-rate of 83.33, which was topped with 88 at Chester-le-Street, whilst adding another 93 runs in three T20Is, including 56 not out in the second match. Article Source: IANS
