Cricket

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

IND-W vs ZIM-W 3rd T20I , Cricket Tips :Team India had a dominating win in the second T20I against Zimbabwe Women, and they have taken a 2-0 unbeatable lead in the series. Smriti Mandhana have recorded a series win in her first attempt in the shorter format. It was none other than Shafali Verma, who won the game. The Indian opener recorded a partnership of 96 runs in 7.5 overs and took India to the fastest ever T20I chase in women's cricket. Now, India will take on Zimbabwe Women in the final game on Tuesday. This contest will kick off at 7 PM IST at Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium, Raipur. IND-W vs ZIM-W: Match Details Date : October 20, 2026 (Tuesday) Time : 7:00 PM IST Venue : Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium, Raipur IND-W vs ZIM-W: Live Streaming Details In India, the live telecast will be available on the Star Sports Networks, and the live stream of the game will be available on the Jio Hotstar app or website. IND-W vs ZIM-W: Head-to-Head in T20I Total Matches : 2 Zimbabwe Women : 0 India Women: 2 No Result: 0 IND-W vs ZIM-W: Ground Pitch Report The surface in Raipur has bounce and pace. Fast bowlers can use it when the ball is new and swinging to trouble the batters. As the game goes on, spinners will get into the game. Batting conditions will remain similar in both innings. IND-W vs ZIM-W: Possible XIs India Women: Shafali Verma, Smriti Mandhana (c), Harmanpreet Kaur, Anushka Sharma, Niki Prasad, Richa Ghosh (wk), Deepti Sharma, Shree Charani, Arundhati Reddy, Nandani Sharma, Kranti Gaud Zimbabwe Women: Beloved Biza, Kelis Ndhlovu, Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano, Sharne Mayers, Michelle Mavunga, Francisca Chipare, Nyasha Gwanzura, Modester Mupachikwa (wk), Josephine Nkomo (c), Olinder Chare, Tendai Makusha IND-W vs ZIM-W: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Shafali Verma and Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano did well with the bat in the second game. They will be the ones to watch out for. Probable Best Bowler Nandani Sharma and Nyasha Gwanzura have taken joint-most wickets in the series so far. They have found ways to trouble the batters. Today Match Prediction: Zimbabwe are no way near Team India in any aspects. Hence, we back India Women to win this game. IND-W vs ZIM-W Match 3rd T20I, Today Match IND-W vs ZIM-W, IND-W vs ZIM-W Prediction, IND-W vs ZIM-W Predicted XIs, Injury Update for IND-W vs ZIM-W Match Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Disclaimer : The prediction or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.

2nd Test: Aus pacer Boland has Proteas reeling on Day 2

Australian paceman Scott Boland continued his impressive form, taking four wickets to leave South Africa struggling at 97/5 at stumps on Day 2 of the second Test. Captain Temba Bavuma remains unbeaten on 41, offering the only resistance against a dominant Australian attack.

Pakistan And Sri Lanka Fined Over Slow Over-Rates In ODI Tri-Series

Pakistan and Sri Lanka were fined for slow over-rates during the opening tri-series match in Rawalpindi, the International Cricket Council (ICC) said on Monday. The ICC said match referee Jeff Crowe fined Pakistan 10 percent of their fee from Sunday's opening match, while Sri Lanka were docked five percent. Pakistan were ruled to be two overs short and Sri Lanka one short during the time allotted. Under the ICC code of conduct for players, the players are fined five per cent of their match fee for every over their side fails to bowl in the allotted time, an ICC release said. Pakistan beat Sri Lanka by 37 runs and now meet England on Tuesday, also in Rawalpindi. The teams will play each other twice before the final in Lahore on October 31. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories The series is being played as a build-up for next year's 50-over World Cup to be co-hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.

Scott Boland Sets Pace As South Africa Struggle

Scott Boland bowled Australia into a strong position after a lengthy rain delay on the second day of the second Test against South Africa at St Georges Park on Monday. Boland took four for 31 as South Africa limped to 97 for five at the close. Captain Temba Bavuma stood firm for the hosts, scoring 41 not out. Boland came into the team when Australia opted for an all-pace bowling attack, and he followed up his two wickets on the rain-ruined first day by striking in the third over on Monday and again shortly before the close. Only five runs were added to the overnight 20 for two before Boland struck in his second over of the day. New cap Marques Ackerman was caught behind by wicketkeeper Alex Carey for six, with the left-hander edging a ball bowled from around the wicket which seamed away off the pitch. Matthew Breetzke, who together with Ackerman was brought into the side to strengthen the batting, made only four before he provided Carey with a third catch when he played a loose shot against Mitchell Starc. South Africa seemed to be clawing their way back into the contest as Ryan Rickelton (31) added 52 for the fifth wicket with Bavuma but Rickelton fell to a sensational one-handed catch at first slip by Matt Renshaw when Boland was brought back into the attack shortly before the close. Play started six hours after the scheduled start on Monday after more than 60mm of rain fell overnight and into the morning. The sun was shining brightly by the time the outfield had dried enough for play to start and batting conditions were expected to ease. But Bolands relentless accuracy left world Test champions South Africa in a precarious position as they sought to play their way back into the three-match series after losing the first Test in Durban by 214 runs. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Fast bowler Josh Hazlewood did not take the field on Tuesday because of illness but was expected to be available on Tuesday.

South Africa vs Australia 2nd Test Day: Scott Boland Sets Pace As Proteas Slump To 97/5

Scott Boland bowled Australia into a strong position after a lengthy rain delay on the second day of the second Test against South Africa at St George's Park on Monday.

Bavuma fights but Boland's four puts Australia in complete control

A total of 146 overs have been lost in the Test so far, but with minimal more rain forecast in Gqeberha, Australia will believe they have enough time to make it 2-0

Atal ton, Zadran 90 put Afghanistan on course before Zimbabwe fightback

Afghanistan lost five wickets in the last five overs to be bowled out for 294

Not Somebody Beating His Chest: Ex-India Star's Big Praise For Bhuvneshwar Kumar

Bhuvneshwar Kumar initially earned a recall for India's five-match T20I series in New Zealand starting on October 22. But he was then drafted into the rained-out fifth T20I against the West Indies in Bengaluru

Ex-India Star Drops Bombshell On Yashasvi Jaiswal's ODI World Cup Chances

Such is the combination of India's ODI and T20I teams that Yashasvi Jaiswal continues to wait for his chance despite impressive performances.

PAK vs ENG 2nd ODI Prediction, Match Preview And Playing XIs

PAK vs ENG 2nd ODI, Cricket Tips: The ODI tri-series in Pakistan began with a banger. Pakistan and Sri Lanka indulged in a fierce competition, and Pakistan held their nerves to secure a 37-run win. Salman Agha, who was dropped from Test, and was stripped from his T20I captaincy, slammed a match-winning century. Pakistan also produced a great bowling display, especially in death overs. They ticked most of the boxes but need to bat well in the final overs. Pakistan will now face England in the second game, which is scheduled to take place on Tuesday at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium at 1:30 PM IST. England have a strong squad, and they will be looking to get points from this win. PAK vs ENG: Match Details Date : October 20, 2026 (Tuesday) Time : 1:30 PM IST Venue : Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi PAK vs ENG: Live Streaming Details Indian fans can watch the game through the FanCode mobile app or website. PAK vs ENG: Head-to-Head in ODIs Total Matches : 92 Pakistan : 32 England : 57 No-result : 3 PAK vs ENG: Ground Pitch Report Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium offers a flat deck which has good assistance for the batters. In the first game, 300 was scored, and it was almost chased down. Bowlers wil get assistance with the new ball, but they need to use more change of pace in the backyard. PAK vs ENG: Possible XIs Pakistan : Saim Ayub, Fakhar Zaman, Saad Baig (wk), Babar Azam, Salman Agha, Hasan Nawaz, Arafat Minhas, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi (c), Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf. England : Ben Duckett, Tom Banton, Joe Root, Harry Brook , Jordan Cox (wk), Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Gus Atkinson, Adil Rashid, Josh Tongue PAK vs ENG: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Salman Agha and Joe Root are in excellent form, and they have runs under their belts in the last few matches. Probable Best Bowler Naseem Shah and Jamie Overton are two smart operators of the ball who can bowl in any phase of the game. Today Match Prediction : Pakistan won the first game, but England have been the stronger side. Hence, we predict England to win this game. PAK vs ENG 2nd ODI, Today Match PAK vs ENG, PAK vs ENG Prediction, PAK vs ENG Predicted XIs, Injury Update for Pakistan vs England Match Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Disclaimer : The prediction or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.

Gulf Giants Appoint CP Rizwan As Assistant Batting Coach

Batting Coach Michael Klinger: The Adani Sportsline-owned Gulf Giants have appointed former United Arab Emirates (UAE) international cricketer CP Rizwan as their Assistant Batting Coach ahead of the fifth edition of the International League T20 (ILT20), scheduled to run from November 21 to December 20, 2026. Rizwan was part of the Giants title-winning squad in 2023 and moved into coaching after retiring from international cricket. He recently led the franchises development team to victory in the ILT20 Development Tournament, building on the efforts of assistant coach Nael and the wider coaching staff in supporting the teams progress. He will work with Batting Coach Michael Klinger, Head Coach Simon Helmot and the wider coaching staff to prepare the batting unit for the new season. His appointment also creates opportunities for former players to continue contributing to the sport, in line with Adani Sportslines focus on developing sporting talent. Rizwan said, The Gulf Giants have been an important part of my cricketing journey, first as a player and now as a coach. Winning the inaugural ILT20 title in 2023 and then leading the development team to a championship has made this association even more special. I thank Adani Sportsline and the Giants for this opportunity and look forward to working with Simon, Michael and the rest of the staff as we prepare for the season. Helmot said, CP (Rizwan) knows the team well and brings valuable international experience and a sound understanding of UAE cricket. Having played for the Giants and worked with the development side, he understands our ambitions. He will be a valuable addition to the coaching group as we prepare for the new season. Rizwan said, The Gulf Giants have been an important part of my cricketing journey, first as a player and now as a coach. Winning the inaugural ILT20 title in 2023 and then leading the development team to a championship has made this association even more special. I thank Adani Sportsline and the Giants for this opportunity and look forward to working with Simon, Michael and the rest of the staff as we prepare for the season. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Badoni walks the talk with his second double ton for Delhi

On day two of Delhis second Ranji game, against Gujarat, Badoni amassed a career-best 217 off just 246 deliveries

Manvanth's Maiden First-Class Ton Puts Karnataka in Command

Manvanth Kumar's brilliant maiden first-class hundred, a composed 135 off 214 balls, enabled Karnataka to post 342 all out before their bowlers rattled Saurashtra's top-order, reducing them to 164 for four at stumps on day two of their Ranji Trophy Group B match.

Ranji Trophy: Sutar's Historic 400 Headlines Day Two; Badoni Hits Double Ton, Sarfaraz, Patidar Smash Centuries

Nagaland Cricket Stadium: Mizoram's Chinmay Sutar became only the second batter in Ranji Trophy history to hit a quadruple century, while Delhi captain Ayush Badoni struck a double hundred and India batters Sarfaraz Khan and Rajat Patidar notched up centuries on an eventful day two of the second round of the Ranji Trophy on Monday. Playing in just his second first-class match, Sutar remained unbeaten on 400 against Nagaland in a Plate group game at the Nagaland Cricket Stadium in Sovima, and become only the second Indian to score a quadruple hundred in first-class cricket. The left-hander went past Prithvi Shaw's 379 to post the second-highest individual score in the history of the competition. Only Bhausaheb Nimbalkar's unbeaten 443 for Maharashtra against Kathiawar in Pune in 1948-49 remains ahead of him. Sutar was on 392 at tea and brought up his 400 in the 155th over, prompting Mizoram to declare at 581/9. He faced 517 balls in all and struck 46 fours and seven sixes. Mizoram, who ended day one on 331/5, slipped to 391/9 and Sutar was on 231 when last man Lalrempuia Chhakchhuak joined him. The pair put on an unbroken 190-run stand to take the game away from Nagaland. It has entered the record books as the third-highest last-wicket partnership in Ranji Trophy history, 43 runs short of the record 233 set by Ajay Sharma and Maninder Singh for Delhi against Mumbai in 1991-92. Sutar also became only the 10th batter to score 400 or more in a first-class innings, joining a list that features batting greats such as Brian Lara and Don Bradman. Sutar made his Ranji debut for Mizoram in last week's season opener against Manipur after obtaining a no-objection certificate from the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA). He scored 35 and 99 in that game, as Mizoram recovered from a 68-run first-innings deficit before going down narrowly by three wickets. Sutar had played for Mumbai in the Vijay Hazare Trophy last season on the back of strong showings in Mumbai's local leagues. By the time stumps were called in Sovima, Nagaland reached 50/1. Elsewhere in the Plate group, Parth Palawat and Nilesh Lamichaney scored hundreds as Sikkim piled up 477/4 against Arunachal Pradesh's 121. Meanwhile, Karnajit Yumnam's unbeaten 93 led Manipur's strong reply of 173/2 to Meghalaya's 380, in which Pheiroijam Jotin bagged five wickets in a 29-over spell. In Elite Group A, Patidar's unbeaten 107, studded with 13 fours, took Madhya Pradesh to 302/5 and their lead swelling to 125 against Puducherry. Chanchal Rathore and Shubham Sharma also made half-centuries for Madhya Pradesh. Ravikumar Samarth's 143 rescued Vidarbha in a sensational fashion and took them past Jammu and Kashmir's 260, with number nine Rajneesh Gurbani making an unbeaten 64. Umar Nazir and Sunil Kumar took four wickets each for the hosts and leave Vidarbha at 133/7, before Samarth bailed Vidarbha out of trouble. Nachiket Bhute then rocked J&K's top order to leave them reeling at 7/4 in Srinagar, as the defending champions still trail by 38 runs. In Kanpur, Zeeshan Ansari's five-wicket haul helped Uttar Pradesh bowl out Goa for 164 and take a 38-run lead. At stumps, UP reached 102/4 in their second innings. Priyanshu Moliya's 132, backed by fifties from Mahesh Pithiya and Deepak Hooda, gave Baroda a 250-run lead over Bihar. At stumps, Bihar reached 4/0 in one over of their second innings and still trail by 246 runs. In Group B, Salil Arora (107 off 226 balls) and skipper Uday Saharan (161 off 299 balls) steered Punjab to 456 against Chhattisgarh, with Arora scoring his second hundred in as many games. Left-arm spinner Dharmendrasinh Jadeja sent down nearly 56 overs for his seven wickets, but got little support from the rest of the attack. Harpreet Brar then ripped through the Chhattisgarh batting with 5-21 in just eight overs, and leave the visitors at 76/5 at stumps, as they still trail by 384 runs. At Alur, resuming on 281/8, Karnataka were bowled out for 342, with Manvanth Kumar hitting 135 off 214 balls, including 11 fours and six sixes, in what is also his maiden first-class century. Saurashtra's openers Hetvik Kotak (46 off 127 balls) and Harvik Desai (77 off 78 balls) gave a strong start with a 110-run stand. Karnataka, however, hit back either side of tea to reduce the visitors to 128/4, before Arpit Vasavada (25 batting) and Prerak Mankad (13 batting) took them to 164/4 at stumps, as Saurashtra are still 178 runs behind. Tanay Thyagarajan continued his fine start to the season with a five-wicket haul as Hyderabad bowled out Andhra for 184 to take a 91-run lead. Hyderabad were 78/2 at stumps. Assam bowled out Tripura for 62, with Mukhtar Hussain taking 3-23, as the hosts enforced the follow-on. Tripura were 143/5 in their second innings at stumps, but are still 129 runs behind. In Group C, Badoni's 217 off 246 balls powered Delhi to declare at 648/6 against Gujarat, with Sumit Mathur and Anuj Rawat also scoring half-centuries. Gujarat ended the day on 98/2 in 35 overs and trail by 550 runs in Palam. Shahbaz Ahmed and Aamir Gani took four wickets apiece as Bengal dismissed Services for 122. Left-arm spinner Rahul Singh then claimed five wickets to bowl Bengal out for 146 in their second innings, leaving Services needing 209 to win and they reached 12/0 in five overs at stumps. Mohammed Azharuddeen remained unbeaten on 139 as Kerala made 404 against Odisha, while sharing a 99-run stand with Aditya Sarvate, who also scored a fifty. Odisha were 114/3 and trail Kerala by 290 runs. Digvijay Patil's 148 and another century from Ankit Bawne took Maharashtra to 403/5 and get a lead of 234 runs against Jharkhand. In Group D, Sarfaraz's unbeaten 139 off 213 balls, his 18th first-class hundred laced with 18 fours, put Mumbai in complete control at 398/4 against Himachal Pradesh at the Luhnu Cricket Ground, Bilaspur and stretch their lead to 258. Captain Siddhesh Lad (87 off 188 balls) and Musheer Khan (57 off 137 balls) had earlier put on 122 runs for the third wicket. Lad shared a 68-run stand with Sarfaraz for the fourth wicket, while Sarfaraz and Akash Anand (58 not out off 152 balls) then added an unbroken 176 for the fifth wicket to bat Himachal out of the contest. In Chennai, Pradosh Ranjan Paul's gritty 136 off 279 balls, including 12 fours, helped Tamil Nadu take a 179-run first-innings lead over Uttarakhand, before being all out for 313. Resuming on 85/2, Paul curbed his usual attacking instincts and, along with Baba Indrajith (77), shared a 171-run stand for the third wicket. Off-spinner Avneesh Sudha (4-34 in 20 overs) and Mayank Mishra, who took five wickets, were the standout bowlers for Uttarakhand. Captain R Sai Kishore removed opener Aarav Mahajan in the first over of Uttarakhand's second innings to leave them at 9/1 at stumps. Karan Lamba and Sachin Yadav were both dismissed for 194 after a 338-run third-wicket stand, as Rajasthan made 497 against Railways, who were 46/1 in 24 overs of the first innings and still trail by 451 runs. Off-spinner Avneesh Sudha (4-34 in 20 overs) and Mayank Mishra, who took five wickets, were the standout bowlers for Uttarakhand. Captain R Sai Kishore removed opener Aarav Mahajan in the first over of Uttarakhand's second innings to leave them at 9/1 at stumps. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

WPL 2027: Dunkley, Molineux At Highest Base Price As 146 Players Enter Auction

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: England batter Sophia Dunkley and Australia captain Sophie Molineux have registered themselves at the highest base price of Rs 50 lakh for the player auction for the Women's Premier League (WPL) 2027 to be held in Kochi on October 28. Indian wicketkeeper-batter G. Kamalini, who was released by two-time winners Mumbai Indians, and batter Kiran Navgire, let go by the UP Warriorz, along with Australian duo Heather Graham and Jess Jonassen, are in the next bracket with a base price of Rs 40 lakh. Another 30 players have registered at a base price of Rs 30 lakh. In all, 146 players will go under the hammer for 27 available slots at the auction, which will begin at 5:30 pm at the Grand Hyatt hotel. The pool includes 119 Indians - 22 of them capped and 97 uncapped - competing for 20 slots. The overseas contingent comprises 27 players -- 14 capped and 13 uncapped, vying for the remaining seven spots. Six players from Associate nations are also on the list. UP Warriorz will head into the auction with the biggest purse of Rs 3.65 crore and have seven slots to fill, including two for overseas players. MI also have seven vacancies, one of them for an overseas player, but have the smallest purse of Rs 1 crore. Defending champions and two-time winners Royal Challengers Bengaluru have Rs 1.15 crore to fill five slots, including two overseas spots, while four-time runners-up Delhi Capitals have Rs 1.1 crore for five slots, one of which is for an overseas player. Gujarat Giants have the fewest slots to fill, with Rs 1.25 crore available for three players, including one for an overseas cricketer. Australia have the largest overseas presence in the auction pool, with Grace Harris, Tayla Vlaeminck, Tess Flintoff, Charli Knott, Samantha Bates, Maitlan Brown, Maddie Penna and Milly Illingworth registering alongside Sophie, Heather and Jess, who have been a part of the WPL previously. Sri Lanka captain Chamari Athapaththu and young pacer Mithali Ayodya are also in the pool, along with South Africa's quartet of Nonkululeko Mlaba, Annerie Dercksen, Kayla Reyneke and Chloe Tryon, and Ireland's seam-bowling all-rounder Orla Prendergast. Scotland lead the Associate contingent, with sisters Sarah and Kathryn Bryce, who have played in the WPL previously, as well as Darcey Carter and Kirstie Gordon in the fray. Babette de Leede and Esha Oza, captains of the Netherlands and UAE respectively, complete the list. Sri Lanka captain Chamari Athapaththu and young pacer Mithali Ayodya are also in the pool, along with South Africa's quartet of Nonkululeko Mlaba, Annerie Dercksen, Kayla Reyneke and Chloe Tryon, and Ireland's seam-bowling all-rounder Orla Prendergast. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Sophia Dunkley, Sophie Molineux At Highest Base Price; WPL 2027 Auction To Be Held On This Day

England batter Sophia Dunkley and Australia captain Sophie Molineux have registered themselves at the highest base price of Rs 50 lakh for the player auction for the Women's Premier League (WPL) 2027 to be held in Kochi.

WPL Auction: Kamalini, Rana, Molineux in Shortlist

Indian batters G Kamalini and Sneh Rana, Australian captain Sophie Molineux, and Sri Lanka skipper Chamari Athapaththu are among 146 players shortlisted for the Women's Premier League auction in Kochi on October 28, competing for 27 available slots.

Ranji Trophy: Pradoshs ton puts Tamil Nadu in the drivers seat

At stumps, Uttarakhand was 9 for one in its second innings after Sai Kishore dismissed opener Aarav Mahajan in the first over

Ravi Shastri Backs Mohammed Shami To Make International Comeback With Blunt Message For BCCI Selectors

Mohammed Shami has been unable to return to the national team despite performing consistently at the domestic level and in IPL 2026.

Ranji Trophy: Bengal, Services Locked in Spin Battle as 15 Wickets Fall

Fifteen wickets fell as Bengal gained a narrow edge over Services in the Ranji Trophy, while Delhi piled up 648/6 against Gujarat with Ayush Badoni scoring 217.

Ranji trophy: Hyderabad leads by 169 runs at stumps on Day-2

If Andhra had grabbed the game by the scruff of the neck in the second session on Day 1, it was Hyderabads turn to do the same on Day 2, with Tanay once again at the heart of it, as he had been against Tripura in the previous round.

Age Shouldn't Matter If You're Good Enough, Says Kartik On Bhuvneshwar's Recall

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Former Indian left-arm spinner Murali Kartik on Monday welcomed Bhuvneshwar Kumar's recall to the national T20I side, saying age should never be a barrier to selection as long as a player is good enough and not a liability on the field. Bhuvneshwar initially earned a recall for Indias five-match T20I series in New Zealand starting on October 22. But he was then drafted into the rained-out fifth T20I against the West Indies in Bengaluru first as a cover for Arshdeep Singh, before replacing Mayank Yadav in the playing eleven. Bhuvneshwar had played a key role in the Royal Challengers Bengaluru achieving consecutive IPL wins in 2025 and 2026. 100 percent. I am so happy that he has made his comeback. I have never been a huge believer (in age being a criterion for selection). If somebody is good, he should be picked. Somebody is 40, and he is good; as long as he can move and he is not a liability on the field, he should be picked. I have got no issues with that. I have never had. I have always maintained this belief in my life, Kartik told reporters in a select virtual interaction facilitated by Sony Sports Network on Monday. Someone like Bhuvneshwar Kumar, he has showcased it throughout his life. He has been a quiet and exceptional performer. He is not somebody who is beating his chest and saying, ' Notice me'. He has never done that. Even this year too, in that cauldron called IPL, which is a tough gig for any bowler, he literally was simply the best or, in fact, one of the best in all conditions across all phases. I suppose there is a huge case for him, and there was a national clamour, so to speak, that Bhuvneshwar should be picked primarily based on those performances. So, I am very happy that he is back and so should be for anyone else, he added. Kartik, however, cautioned that the comeback would put Bhuvneshwar under intense scrutiny, and that the outcome could shape how selectors view older players for future assignments. I don't know if you want to use the word litmus. But anyone who is on this side of 30 and making a comeback, it is not going to be easy. The spotlight is always going to be on you. If you do well, people will say, he has continued his form. If he doesn't do well, then people are going to say, we always knew he was on this side. All those things are part of it. From a Bhuvneshwar Kumar point of view, I don't think he is going to be looking at it that way. It is a new lease of life. Anybody who comes to play this game wants to play it for the right reason, and that is to play for the country at any stage at any age. So I am pretty sure that Bhuvneshwar Kumar is taking it that way. But yes, the pressure is on him because if he doesn't do well, if it doesn't go well for him, then obviously, it is like how you are looked at. Say, imagine a 36- or 37-year-old does well. If there is a reason to bring another 36- or 37-year-old at some other stage, people might use this as an example and say, look, he did well, so he can also do well. But if somebody doesn't do well, then there are always going to be doubts about bringing that guy as well. So I hope it goes well for Bhuvneshwar Kumar. But it is definitely going to be a stern test. I don't know whether it is a litmus test, he elaborated. On wrist spinner Varun Chakaravarthy's return, after a side strain led to him being ruled out after the first T20I against Afghanistan in New Delhi last month, Kartik said fitness would be the key. You just hope that Varun Chakaravarthy stays fit because he is also on the other side of 30 and he is not known for his exceptional fitness. So, he is basically a one-dimensional cricketer who has done exceedingly well with what he has got. That is exactly what Varun Chakravarthy is. That is an argument which you can use for other people as well. Someone like Kuldeep Yadav. How is it that Varun Chakaravarthy is solely a bowler? He is not a gazelle on the field, nor is he a Shai Hope with the bat. So, he is seen as a superb bowler because he has won. How is it that the same yardsticks are not used for someone else? So, I hope that really all goes well for India, he said. He also expected spinners to play a big role in the T20Is in New Zealand despite the small grounds. If he is fit, as I said again, in New Zealand, the grounds are small. But not so small that the spinners cannot operate. Most importantly, in T20 cricket, we have seen that it is the spinners who have got the better economy. So, spinners have a huge role. Also, most importantly, the format always demands that you are always thinking on your feet. You are light on your feet. You are thinking as the ball or game evolves. So, I suppose spinners have a huge role. So will the pacers. Again, you will not necessarily get good wickets during the T20s. You don't want extremely seaming wickets during the T20 games. It will be interesting to see how our spinners go because you have got some good ones. Kartik also backed all-rounder Naman Dhir, who smashed an unbeaten 24 off six balls in the abandoned series decider against the West Indies in Bengaluru, to make a strong case for himself, especially after his handy off-spin fetched him five scalps. When you look at what he has done, I think he is a good cricketer to have. He is a very handy three-dimensional cricketer to have. He might not give you four overs every time in a T20, but he will give you handy overs. As we have seen, he has picked up wickets and, more importantly, he has shown some heart, and that is the most important thing, especially in the T20 format, he said. Even when you get hit, he has shown some heart, and he is a quality hitter, down the order. I think he can finish and win games for you. I am pretty sure, at the end of the day, as and when you are presented opportunities, if you take them with both hands, you make an extremely strong case for yourself not to be dropped, he added. On teenage opener Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who has had to wait for his chance to play, Kartik said the youngster's time would come. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is a precocious talent. For him, he is just waiting in the wings because of two openers out there and a number three who has done exceptionally well and can also double up as an opener if need be. You have got the top two batters in T20Is right now going around, and you have got a right-left combination. So, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi will get his chance because he is an exciting talent. He has a wonderful future ahead. So, it's just a question of biding your time sometimes. On teenage opener Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who has had to wait for his chance to play, Kartik said the youngster's time would come. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is a precocious talent. For him, he is just waiting in the wings because of two openers out there and a number three who has done exceptionally well and can also double up as an opener if need be. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Ranji Trophy: Karnataka and Saurashtra share the spoils on day two

Powered by youngster Manvanth Kumars maiden First Class century, Karnataka make 342 first-innings runs; Saurashtra, in reply, reach 164 for four

Ranji Trophy: Juyal, Patidar, Samarth centuries headline Day 2

Captain Aryan Juyal's unbeaten 60 helped Uttar Pradesh recover against Goa, while Rajat Patidar's 107* put Madhya Pradesh in control against Puducherry, and Ravikumar Samarth's 133 kept Vidarbha in contention against Jammu and Kashmir in the Ranji Trophy.

Aryan Juyal Helps UP Take Control Against Goa In Ranji Trophy

Uttar Pradesh recovered from a shaky start in their second innings to reach 102 for four against Goa at stumps on the second day of their Ranji Trophy Group A match, extending their overall lead to 140 runs after bowling out the visitors for 164.

Shocked By Suthar's Omission For Tests Against NZ, Has Been The Find Of The Season: Murali Kartik

But Manav Suthar: Former India left-arm spinner Murali Kartik said he was shocked by Manav Suthar's exclusion from the Test squad for the tour of New Zealand, adding that the young left-arm spin bowling all-rounder was the sides best bowler in the longer format in recent times. Suthar made a dream start to his Test career by picking 23 wickets in three matches 16 of which came in Indias 1-0 series win over Sri Lanka in August. But he was left out of the squad for the two-game Test series that forms part of India's multi-format tour of New Zealand starting on October 22. India have instead gone with three spin options, with Kuldeep Yadav retaining his place as the only specialist spinner alongside all-rounders Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar. Of the three, only Jadeja has bowled before in a Test match in New Zealand. Look, it's a tough one for me to be very honest because when I saw the squads, I was shocked myself. Because, as you rightly said, Manav Suthar has been the find of the season, especially post Ashwin. We have been searching for a Test match bowler, and the most important thing is the rationale which is used behind not picking Kuldeep sometimes is that he is not as good a bat as others. But Manav Suthar fits that bill too. More importantly, take the batting away. I don't even look at somebody as a batter. Yes, you do want to contribute handy runs, especially in the modern version of the game because you don't want any guys who cannot bat. But the most important thing is, Manav Suthar has been the best bowler on view in the Test matches that we have had of late, Kartik told IANS in a virtual interaction facilitated by Sony Sports Network on Monday. Suthar will instead travel to New Zealand with the India A squad for three red-ball matches, where he will have to find ways to be effective in windy conditions and on pitches that may not offer much help to spinners. He also claimed 27 wickets in six County Championship matches for Warwickshire this year, which also sharpened his tactical nous on bowling in overseas conditions. Kartik added that Suthar, along with Kuldeep, gave India a genuine wicket-taking option in Tests. I was massively surprised that he has not been picked. So I don't know the logic. It's not as if you cannot take one extra player. Also, most importantly, he is your wicket-taking bowler. All the others have been - and Kuldeep Yadav is a wicket-taking bowler. But again, Kuldeep Yadav is a very different story. Think of the tour to Sri Lanka. He played the first Test match and the second Test match, he didn't play. Even in the first Test match, when you look at his numbers, he has got a very good set of numbers across formats. There is a lot of stop-start to his sort of games. He is not able to string together games, or he is not stringing together games. So he was not picked in the second game. It was Manav Suthar (who excelled), and I am a bit surprised because he is your genuine wicket-taking option alongside Kuldeep Yadav, he added. On how spinners should go about bowling on New Zealand's grounds with vastly different dimensions and gusty mid-spring winds in both red-ball and white-ball formats, Kartik felt there was no fixed formula. Absolutely. I think you have to play with the dimensions. You have to work with the wind because the breeze can blow. Again, they are very funny-shaped grounds. They are not exactly round. Many of them are really tiny as well. So, you need to have a big heart. Again, it's about working all of that - keeping in mind what the surface is offering on that given day. So, it's not a one size that fits all. Every ground has got its own characteristics. Every place has its own characteristics, and that's why you need to be very light on your feet, thinking on your feet while playing in those conditions over there. With only Jadeja and wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant (currently nursing a left side strain) having previously batted in Tests in New Zealand, Kartik expects a stern examination for India's batters in the Tests to be played in Wellington and Christchurch. To counter that huge inexperience, especially with 24 World Test Championship (WTC) points at stake in the race to the 2027 final, the likes of Dhruv Jurel, KL Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Devdutt Padikkal, and B Sai Sudharsan have been included in the A team shadow tour, while skipper Shubman Gill will prepare for the series after playing his first three ODIs. Absolutely, I think it's a very, very good question because at the end of the day, we had some questions before heading to England as well. It's going to be a tough tour across formats because you are playing against the New Zealand side at home. They always play well, and they are playing well. So, it's going to be a very, very challenging tour for everyone and challenging for the batters as well because you've got some young guns and guys who will be tested out there, and those guys know how to exploit those conditions. So, yeah, absolutely. I hope they get enough time, and maybe between games or before the Test match, they have enough practice time in replicating those conditions. I know it's never the same as match conditions, but many of them have played Test cricket for a while. They are all established players of that Test team. So, that should give you a bit of confidence going into the Test matches. But again, till the time you have not been there and not done it at the highest level, and when I mean highest level, at the Test level, it's never going to be easy. So, it will make for a good viewing over here, concluded Kartik. I hope they get enough time, and maybe between games or before the Test match, they have enough practice time in replicating those conditions. I know it's never the same as match conditions, but many of them have played Test cricket for a while. They are all established players of that Test team. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Ranji Trophy: Spinners Dominate As 15 Wickets Fall; Bengal-Services Match Finely Poised

Fifteen wickets fell on a gripping second day as Bengal gained a slight advantage over Services in their Ranji Trophy Group C match Monday. Services 12 without loss at stumps in a chase of 197.

Familiar foes get serious in ODI World Cup build-up

England take confidence from summer of 50-over progress; Pakistan buoyed by SL win

Bought For Rs 5.2 Crore After Earning Rs 12.5 Crore, Shikhar Dhawan Recalls IPL Heartbreak

Former India opener Shikhar Dhawan recently opened up about the emotional turmoil he endured during the IPL 2018 season while representing Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH).

Ramesh Powar appointed to BCCI selection panel; Pragyan Ojha to chair committee

The Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC), comprising Ashok Malhotra and Jatin Paranjape, unanimously recommended Powars appointment after screening and interviewing applicants at the BCCI headquarters

Afghanistan bat; Zimbabwe bring in Burl and Masuku

Injuries forced Craig Ervine and Newman Nyamhuri to sit out this game for Zimbabwe

BCCI Appoints Pragyan Ojha as Chief Selector After Ajit Agarkar

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has appointed former India spinner Pragyan Ojha as the chairman of the men's national selection committee while former cricketer Ramesh Powar has been roped in as a new member. As per the

Pragyan Ojha Replaces Ajit Agarkar As BCCI Chief Selector, Ramesh Powar Joins Panel

Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Monday confirmed the appointment of former pacer Pragyan Ojha as the new chief selector of the men's selection committee.

Powar appointed men's national selector; Ojha to serve as chair

Ramesh Powar, who played two Tests and 31 ODIs for India, was picked to fill the vacancy that was created after Ajit Agakar's term ended

Ranji Trophy: 400 Not Out! Chinmay Sutar Joins Elite Club

Mizoram's Chinmay Sutar achieved a rare feat by scoring an unbeaten 400 runs in a first-class Ranji Trophy match against Nagaland, becoming only the second Indian batter to reach this milestone after Bhausahab Babasaheb Nimbalkar in 1948.

Patterson's century cements New South Wales' dominant day

Ollie Davies set the tone for the visitors with an aggressive half-century while Sam Konstas was also in the runs

Powar Added To Senior Mens Selection Committee, Ojha Becomes Chief Selector

BCCI Secretary Devajit Saika: Former India off-spinner Ramesh Powar has been added to the senior men's selection committee, with ex-left arm spinner Pragyan Ojha taking over as chief selector. The BCCI said on Monday that Ojha has been elevated to the chairman of the selection panel on the basis of seniority, having played the most Tests among the five members of the panel (24). The selection committee now comprises Ojha, Powar, Shiv Sundar Das, RP Singh, and Ajay Ratra. Powar's name was unanimously recommended by the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC), comprising Ashok Malhotra and Jatin Paranjape, which screened and interviewed the applicants at the BCCI headquarters last week. IANS understands that Powar was also interviewed for being a member of the junior selection committee. Powar, 48, played two Tests and 31 ODIs for India from 2004 to 2007 and brings vast experience to the role. He edged competition from fellow former India and West Zone players Wasim Jaffer, Salil Ankola, Jacob Martin and Connor Williams. Mumbai-based Powar had two stints as head coach of the India women's team, where he guided the side to an Asia Cup title and a Commonwealth Games silver medal in 2022. His second spell ended when he was moved to the National Cricket Academy, now called the BCCI Centre of Excellence, in Bengaluru as spin-bowling coach. Powar has also coached Mumbai to Vijay Hazare Trophy win and was Gujarat's senior men's head coach for the last two seasons before stepping down from the role recently. He also served as a consultant coach for Australia U-19 during their recent ODI series against India. The vacancy in the senior selection panel arose following the exit of Ajit Agarkar as chief selector. The BCCI places on record its appreciation for Mr Ajit Agarkar for his commitment, conviction and contribution during his tenure as Chairman of the Mens Selection Committee. Since his appointment in July 2023, Agarkar led the committee through a significant period for Indian cricket, with India winning three ICC trophies, two Asia Cup titles and back-to-back Asian Games gold medals, said BCCI Secretary Devajit Saika in a statement. Agarkar, who took charge in July 2023, oversaw a successful period for Indian mens cricket, during which the side won three ICC trophies, two Asia Cup titles and back-to-back gold medals at the Asian Games. Since his appointment in July 2023, Agarkar led the committee through a significant period for Indian cricket, with India winning three ICC trophies, two Asia Cup titles and back-to-back Asian Games gold medals, said BCCI Secretary Devajit Saika in a statement. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Pragyan Ojha Replaces Agarkar As Chief Selector; Powar Named New Selector

Former India spinner Pragyan Ojha has been appointed as the new chairman of the Indian men's cricket team's selection committee, with Ramesh Powar joining as a new selector.

Pragyan Ojha named BCCI's new chief selector, Ramesh Powar gets appointed to men's selection committee

In a major development, the BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) has come forward and named former India cricketer Pragyan Ojha as the new chief selector of the mens national team. Apart from Ojha, Ramesh Powar has also been added to the selection committee as well.

Innovative Four-innings Masters Pro T20 Launched To Reinvent Legends Cricket Experience

Fanwizz Pvt Ltd Salman Khan: The innovative four-innings Masters Pro T20 has been launched on Monday to reinvent the experience of Legends cricket. The league features a four-innings format, and it aims to give a distinctive sporting and entertainment experience for players, fans and other stakeholders. The format also puts its focus on providing the spectators with a legends' experience which they have not seen before and is different from all other legends' leagues. The format will see both teams bat for two separate innings, just like in Test cricket. Here teams will bat in two separate innings of 10 overs and the tam with greater aggregate score will be determined the winner. There is also an option for a Super Sub, which will give the teams a chance to replace one player from their original playing XI, but that can be done only after both teams have completed their first innings. Avishek Mazumdar, Founding Partner, Fanwizz Private Limited, reflected on the league. Fanwizz aims to build distinctive sporting properties that create sustainable, long-term value for all stakeholders, particularly franchise owners and fans. With Masters Pro T20, we seek to combine innovation and a premium sporting experience with a robust commercial model that delivers meaningful engagement and long-term return potential for franchises, sponsors and partners, while aspiring to establish a leading position in legends cricket, he said. Meanwhile, co-founder of Fanwizz Pvt Ltd Salman Khan stated that the league brings an engaging experience to all the stakeholders involved. As a new venture, Fanwizz will approach the sports business with fresh thinking and a strong focus on the audience. With Masters Pro T20, we want to create more than a tournament; we want to build an engaging experience around legends cricket that fans, players and partners can connect with season after season, said Salman. With Masters Pro T20, we seek to combine innovation and a premium sporting experience with a robust commercial model that delivers meaningful engagement and long-term return potential for franchises, sponsors and partners, while aspiring to establish a leading position in legends cricket, he said. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Leask, Sharif Included In Scotlands Seven-member Squad For Hong Kong Sixes

Tin Kwong Road Recreation Ground: Experienced campaigners Michael Leask and Safyaan Sharif have been included in Scotland's seven-member squad for the Hong Kong Sixes, to be played from October 30 to November 1. The three-day six-a-side tournament will be staged at the Tin Kwong Road Recreation Ground in Hong Kong. Scotland are one of 12 invited nations for the event and have been drawn in Pool B alongside Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. They open their campaign against Bangladesh on October 30 before taking on Sri Lanka the following day. Cricket Scotland head of performance Steve Snell said the squad had been picked with the format's all-round demands in mind. We're excited to announce our squad for the Hong Kong Sixes, which presents a fantastic opportunity for our players to experience a unique and challenging format of the game. The Sixes format really promotes the three-dimensional cricketer, with batting, bowling and fielding skills all playing an equally important role. We've selected a squad with that in mind, ensuring we have the versatility and skill sets required to be competitive. It's an exciting opportunity for our players to test themselves against quality opposition, perform under pressure and gain valuable experience in a completely different playing environment, he said in a statement on Monday. Gordon Drummond will be in charge of the side, assisted by Keegan Russell, and Snell said the tournament would be just as valuable for the coaching staff. The tournament also provides a valuable development opportunity for our coaching staff, with Gordon Drummond leading the team, supported by Keegan Russell. It's another chance for our coaches to gain experience in a different format and environment, while taking on greater responsibility at an international tournament. We're really looking forward to seeing how both the players and coaches embrace the challenge, added Snell. The pool winners will progress to the Cup semi-finals to fight for the main title, while the second-placed sides will contest the Plate semi-finals and the third-placed teams will play in the Bowl competition. The semi-finals are scheduled for October 31, with the play-off games and final on November 1. Each side fields six players and bats for six overs. Bowlers generally send down one over each, though one nominated bowler, other than the wicketkeeper, can bowl two. The unique format places a premium on aggressive batting and quick scoring. The pool winners will progress to the Cup semi-finals to fight for the main title, while the second-placed sides will contest the Plate semi-finals and the third-placed teams will play in the Bowl competition. The semi-finals are scheduled for October 31, with the play-off games and final on November 1. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

First Time Since 1948: Chinmay Sutar Scripts History With 400 In Ranji Trophy

Chinmay Sutar now holds the second-highest individual score in Ranji Trophy history, behind Nimbalkar's unbeaten 443. Former India opener Prithvi Shaw occupies the third spot with 379 runs, scored for Mumbai against Assam during the 2022-23 season.

Chinmay Sutar scores 400* for Mizoram in Ranji Trophy

The Mizoram batter became the second India batter to hit a quadruple century after Bhausaheb Nimbalkar in 1948

Shafali No Longer Just A Powerplay Batter, Puts A Price On Her Wicket: Reema Malhotra

Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International: Former India all-rounder Reema Malhotra said Shafali Verma has evolved from an all-out powerplay hitter into an opening batter who values her wicket and bats with responsibility beyond the first six overs. Reema went on to call Shafali as the best womens T20I batter in the world right now. Shafali smashed 55 off 24 balls in India's nine-wicket win over Zimbabwe in the second T20I at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur on Sunday. It also included her sharing a 96-run opening stand with captain Smriti Mandhana as the hosts sealed the three-match series 2-0. In T20Is this year, Shafali has scored at a blistering pace. Her 922 runs come at a strike rate of 165.52 and include 42 sixes. Among the top eight run-getters in women's T20Is this year, Smriti, with a strike-rate of 150.1, is the only other batter to score at a strike rate above 150. Whenever Shafali Verma gets off to a good start with the bat, you immediately see the opposition get on the back foot. She puts that pressure on the bowlers and when she is playing a typical Shafali Verma knock, the middle order gets the freedom to bat without pressure. Smriti, on the other hand, plays the role of the anchor because she knows that Shafali will take care of the quick scoring, which balances out the way India bat. One major change that we have seen in Shafali's batting is that she is not just a powerplay batter like before. Even after the end of the first six overs, this new version of Shafali bats with responsibility. She has changed her mindset and is putting a price on her wicket. For me, that is the most important thing. And in T20I cricket, I would rate her as the number one batter right now, said Reema to JioStar. She was also impressed with Smriti's leadership, and praised her willingness to back her instincts rather than follow a set template. I am really liking the way Smriti is captaining this Indian side. The way she's managing the players and getting them to play the way she wants is really good to watch. She doesn't stick to one fixed template. She reads the game and makes her own decisions. She gave Nandni Sharma the new ball, used Niki Prasad in the death overs to make the youngster learn how to handle the pressure, and when the Zimbabwe batters looked like they would find a way to come back into the match, she brought on Shafali Verma into the attack to slow things down. It shows that she's not scared of the pressure that comes with the Indian team's captaincy. I have always liked the way she has led RCB and she is putting all her WPL captaincy experience to good use for the Indian team. Reema further lauded the discipline of the Indian pacers, but cautioned that the real tests lay ahead, by equating the Zimbabwe series to a semester exam, the tour of South Africa to the pre-boards and the Women's Champions Trophy to the board exams. The discipline and clarity with which the Indian pacers bowled in this second T20I was really impressive. It is not just about wickets. What matters more is the areas you bowl in, how you set traps for the batters, and whether you can execute what you set out to do. That clarity was evident in the Indian fast bowlers' performance. But a lot of work still needs to be done, because this series against Zimbabwe are the semester exams for the Indian team, the upcoming Tour of South Africa is going to be the pre-board and the Women's Champions Trophy is your board exams. The discipline and clarity with which the Indian pacers bowled in this second T20I was really impressive. It is not just about wickets. What matters more is the areas you bowl in, how you set traps for the batters, and whether you can execute what you set out to do. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Former India cricketer opens up on Bhuvneshwar Kumar's comeback in the Indian side

The stage is set for the multi-format series between India and New Zealand. The Men in Blue will be touring New Zealand to take on the Black Caps across five T20Is, five ODIs, and two...

India women aim for T20I series whitewash against Zimbabwe in Raipur

The Indian women's cricket team is set to complete a 3-0 T20I series sweep against Zimbabwe in the final match in Raipur, buoyed by strong performances from captain Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma, and debutant Niki Prasad.

India Can Win Womens Champions Trophy Next Year If They Keep Improving: Poonam Yadav

Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International: Veteran India leg-spinner Poonam Yadav believes the Smriti Mandhana-led side has what it takes to win next year's Champions Trophy, to be played at home next year, provided it keeps learning from its mistakes the way they did on their way to thrashing Zimbabwe by nine wickets. In the game held at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium on Sunday night, India corrected its mistakes from the series opener win to thrash Zimbabwe by nine wickets and take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. After suffering a batting meltdown in the first game before completing the chase of 115 with four wickets in hand, captain Smriti and her deputy Shafali Verma put a 96-run opening stand to chase down 103 in 8.5 overs. This dominating and commanding victory of India in this second T20I against Zimbabwe shows that they did their homework in the right manner. They made a lot of mistakes in the first match of the series and that was okay because these players were playing for the first time against Zimbabwe and they were not really familiar with their bowlers. But coming into the second match of this series, it was important for the Indian team to learn from their mistakes and they did exactly that. They didn't repeat the mistakes and that is the sign of a team being led by a good captain, said Poonam on JioStar. Smriti, who fell for nine in the first game, made an unbeaten 47 off 25 balls, while Shafali smashed 55 off 24 deliveries. She used her feet well, utilised the depth of the crease and forged an excellent partnership with Shafali. If India keeps improving like this game after game, then I see no reason why they cannot go on to win the Champions Trophy next year, added Poonam. She further described the opening duo of Smriti and Shafali as the backbone of India's batting and added that their ability to score through timing, not just power, sets them apart from others. Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma have become the pillars of Indian batting. A good batting pair in T20 Internationals have the ability to score not just through power, but also through timing. These two do exactly that. They bat as per the demands of the situation, which makes batting look easy and doesn't give the opposition bowlers a chance to dominate them. In the previous game, both Shafali and Smriti got dismissed early, but in this match, they were having none of that, as both of them played good knocks, built a strong partnership, and set the platform for the run chase. She further described the opening duo of Smriti and Shafali as the backbone of India's batting and added that their ability to score through timing, not just power, sets them apart from others. Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma have become the pillars of Indian batting. A good batting pair in T20 Internationals have the ability to score not just through power, but also through timing. These two do exactly that. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Gannon's five puts Queensland in charge despite McSweeney, Lehmann fifties

Gannon took 5 for 42 to bowl South Australia out for 203 despite 62 from Lehmann and 54 from McSweeney before Queensland reached 63 for 2 at stumps with Burdon 39 not out

Sourav Ganguly offers prayers on Maha Ashtami in Behala

Former India captain Sourav Ganguly offered prayers on Maha Ashtami and expressed profound sadness over the tragic stampede at a Kolkata Durga Puja pandal, urging devotees to exercise extreme caution amidst large crowds.

After Joining Elite Club With Wickets Off First Two Balls, Niki Prasad Vows To Keep Learning

U19 T20 World Cup: Young batting all-rounder Niki Prasad, who joined an exclusive club by picking up wickets with her first two balls in international cricket during the second T20I against Zimbabwe, stated that she prefers to draw lessons from setbacks rather than carry the burden of a poor performance into her next game. Niki, who captained India to its second successive Womens U19 T20 World Cup triumph in Malaysia in 2025, returned with figures of 2-7 from two overs of off-spin as India thrashed Zimbabwe by nine wickets to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. Niki became only the third player to strike with each of her first two deliveries in T20Is, after Australia's Michael Kasprowicz and USA's Akshatha Rao. That bowling effort, along with another day of terrific fielding effort, came after a composed debut in the series opener at the same venue, where she made an unbeaten 39 off 35 balls and hit the winning runs. If I keep thinking that my performance is not good, then I think I will play the next matches under the same pressure. So I think about what the lessons were from a match that didn't go well and how to apply them in the next match, Prasad was quoted as saying by the ICC in the post-match press conference. India will look to complete a clean sweep when they take on Zimbabwe in the final T20I here on Tuesday. Despite the emphatic win, Niki felt there was still room for improvement, particularly in the field. I think in every practice session and every match, we try to make as many improvements as possible. There were some misfields here and there, but overall, our team's progress has been really good. She also credited her fellow bowlers for sticking to a simple plan. Our plans were very clear. We wanted to attack the stumps as much as possible. I think all the bowlers were very sharp in executing the plan. Niki further remarked the batters had regrouped well after the opening game. The flow of the batters is not the same every day. We came back and talked about what we could do better. It was very basic: we would focus on our strengths as much as possible. All the batters, Smriti di and Shafali di, went out and played to their strengths. She also credited her fellow bowlers for sticking to a simple plan. Our plans were very clear. We wanted to attack the stumps as much as possible. I think all the bowlers were very sharp in executing the plan. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Couldn't Sleep After My Dismissal In Last Game, Says Shafali After Hitting Fifty Against Zimbabwe

Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International: India vice-captain Shafali Verma has revealed that her poor body language during her soft dismissal in the series opener against Zimbabwe left her sleepless, and prompted her to go back to watching her old videos, as she slammed a match-winning half-century in the second T20I. Shafali smashed 55 off 24 balls and shared a 96-run opening stand with captain Smriti Mandhana as India raced to victory to seal the three-match series with a game to spare at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium on Sunday night. To be honest, the way I got out in the last match, I couldn't even sleep because of my body language. It's not just because I got caught out. My body language was bad. I went and watched the video. So, I think I went and analysed how I can bat better. I didn't play by bending much. So, I watched 2-3 videos of mine. So, I tried to look at the ball and react and play by bending a little because the wicket is low. So, I was trying to go ball by ball and play till the end, Shafali said in a video posted on bcci.tv on Monday. Though Shafali holed out with India needing just seven more runs for the series win, Smriti stayed till the end to close it out. Shafali dedicated the triumph to the exciting young players in the squad. I think it's a very good feeling. First of all, I'm feeling very happy for the youngsters because we have a lot of young players and this series is a win for them. This series is only for them and we will dedicate this series win to them. We know that there is one more match left. We will try to execute all our plans and support our youngsters, she added. She was particularly impressed with the exploits of Niki Prasad, her teammate at Delhi Capitals in the WPL, who has made an impact with both bat and ball and fielding efforts. The way Niki bowled, I was really happy for her and the way she is doing, not just bowling, not just batting, not just fielding, the way she is creating the impact. So, I'm really happy. She has played with me in Delhi Capitals. The way she caught the catch, she does it the same for the Delhi Capitals. So, it's not a big deal for me. Of course, she is playing in the Indian team. But I have seen this before - so, I'm used to it. Shafali further said her aggressive approach was rooted in mental strength and thorough preparation. It's more than fearless when I'm mentally strong. So, I try to go for a good preparation before the game so that I don't feel that I could have done this or that. So, I stay clear and I think I do my best mentally. So, I'm just trying to keep it simple and execute the things which are in my mind. Reflecting on how her mindset had evolved, especially after being dropped from the team in 2025 before staging a return from the series against England and then becoming Player of the Match in 2025 Womens ODI World Cup final wi, Shafali admitted that in the past she would dwell on good performances for too long, something she learnt to correct. For example, maybe in 2020, 2022, 2023 - the matches in which I used to score, I used to stay in that match only. Like I would go, 'Oh, I scored' and I couldn't think about the next match. So, I think I learnt this in 2025 that how quickly I have to move forward mentally. I have to learn well from the previous game. I have to take what I did well and I have to start from zero in the next match. So, I have improved this thing on my own and I have become mentally stable now. I keep looking at the score again and again. What does the team need? What do I have to do now? So, I'm just trying to do simple things right. Shafali signed off by saying she was relishing her role as Indias vice-captain. I think vice-captaincy, I'm enjoying it a lot. I'm trying to provide everything to the youngsters. Me and Smriti di try to keep them in a good mental space. I have to take what I did well and I have to start from zero in the next match. So, I have improved this thing on my own and I have become mentally stable now. I keep looking at the score again and again. What does the team need? What do I have to do now? So, I'm just trying to do simple things right. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Ravi Shastri opens up on Jasprit Bumrah's workload management ahead of NZ series

The stage is set for the multi-format series between India and New Zealand. The two sides will take on each other across five T20Is, five ODIs, and two Test matches. With the ODI World Cup...

Injured McDermott returns to rescue Tasmania after Hoekstra surges

The home side were 45 for 7 and one stage as the young left-arm quick tore through them

Cheteshwar Pujara Picks India's XI For First New Zealand Test, Makes Big No. 3 Call

Former India batter Cheteshwar Pujara has picked his playing XI for the first Test against New Zealand, which begins on November 19 in Wellington.

Afghanistan Name Gulbadin Naib-led Squad For Hong Kong Sixes

Tin Kwong Road Recreation Ground: Afghanistan have named an experienced seven-member squad led by Gulbadin Naib for the Hong Kong Sixes 2026, with the side set to compete in the fast-paced tournament at Tin Kwong Road Recreation Ground from October 30 to November 1. Naib will captain a squad featuring Farmanullah Safi, Imran Mir, Abdul Rahman, Karim Janat, Nangeyalia Kharote and Sediqullah Pacha as Afghanistan prepare to bring their aggressive brand of cricket to the short-format competition. Afghanistan have been placed in Group D alongside South Africa and Oman. With matches played in a six-a-side format, teams will need to maximise scoring opportunities while maintaining discipline with the ball and in the field. The Hong Kong Sixes features six players per side and six overs per innings, placing a premium on explosive batting, inventive bowling and quick decision-making. The condensed format leaves little room for prolonged periods of consolidation, making all-round contributions particularly valuable. Naibs experience at the international level will be central to Afghanistans campaign as they look to make an impression against a competitive field. The squad will aim to adapt quickly to the tournaments demands and deliver an entertaining brand of cricket. Welcoming Afghanistans participation, Anuraag Bhatnagar, Director of Commercial and Marketing at Cricket Hong Kong, China, said the teams approach would add to the tournaments appeal. Afghanistan have consistently brought tremendous energy and competitive spirit to the game, and we are delighted to welcome their squad to the Hong Kong Sixes 2026. The tournament celebrates the excitement, entertainment and fast-paced nature of cricket, and Afghanistans attacking style promises to add to the spectacle. We look forward to welcoming the team and giving fans an unforgettable cricketing experience, Bhatnagar said. Welcoming Afghanistans participation, Anuraag Bhatnagar, Director of Commercial and Marketing at Cricket Hong Kong, China, said the teams approach would add to the tournaments appeal. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Darcie Brown ruled out of the upcoming WBBL season with back injury

In a major blow, Australia and Adelaide Strikers pacer Darcie Brown has been ruled out of the upcoming WBBL (Womens Big Bash League) season. It is interesting to note that Brown has been ruled out...

Afghanistan Announce Squad For Hong Kong Sixes 2026, Gulbadin Naib To Lead

Afghanistan have announced their squad for the Hong Kong Sixes 2026, with experienced all-rounder Gulbadin Naib named captain.

Why Parthiv Patel Rejected Chief Selector Post

Parthiv Patel turned down the opportunity to become the chairman of selectors, citing 'financial issues' related to the remuneration for the role compared to his existing commitments.

Smriti Mandhana-Led India Eye T20I Series Sweep Against Zimbabwe

With its batting unit back in rhythm, the Indian women's cricket team will aim to extend its winning streak and complete a 3-0 sweep against Zimbabwe in the final T20I.

Darcie Brown Ruled Out For WBBL 12 With Back Injury

Big Bash League: Australia fast bowler Darcie Brown has been ruled out of the upcoming Women's Big Bash League as the Adelaide Strikers' bowler continues battling the back injury she suffered recently. Brown was seen in action on Australia A's tour of India last month, where she played two T20s and one one-day game. She picked up a highlight 3-39 in the one-dayer in Mohali but returned home with a disc issue during the tour, which ruled her out of selection for the ODIs against Bangladesh and T20Is against New Zealand. National selector Shawn Flegler stated late last month that the Australian medical staff remained optimistic of the pacer making it in time for the second half of the WBBL. Having been eager to earn a place back in the national team, she headed to the India A tour, and the WBBL could have been crucial for her chances to bring herself back into the reckoning with the inaugural Champions Trophy in February next year. However, a statement from Cricket Australia has confirmed that the speedster would be missing the Big Bash, as she has still not recovered to a point where she can start resuming training. Darcie Brown has been ruled out of the Weber Women's Big Bash League due to an ongoing back injury. Brown was assessed following her return home from India last month, and following a period of de-loading, her injury has not yet recovered to a point where she is ready to resume training. As a result, she will be unable to return to full fitness in time for the upcoming WBBL season, a statement from CA said. Meanwhile, the Strikers have re-signed Zimbabwe leg-spinner Anesu Mushangwe for a fourth season with the club. She was the first Zimbabwean-born player to feature in the WBBL in 2022. I'm really excited to be back with the Strikers for another season, Mushangwe said. Adelaide has become a special place for me over the last few years and is still home for me, and I've made some incredible memories with this group, including being part of a championship-winning team. The Strikers have confirmed 13 of the 15 players for the next season, which also includes the full quota of three international stars. Contracted for WBBL 12: Maia Bouchier (England)(Contracted until WBBL|12), Darcie Brown (W|13), Emma de Broughe (W|12), Sophie Ecclestone (England)(W|12), Ellie Johnston (W|12), Eleanor Larosa (W|12), Tahlia McGrath (W|12), Anesu Mushangwe (W|12), Bridget Patterson (W|12), Maddie Penna (W|12), Megan Schutt (W|13), Amanda-Jade Wellington (W|12), Laura Wolvaardt (South Africa)(W|12) In: Maia Bouchier (Stars), Emma de Broughe (Renegades) Out: Tammy Beaumont, Jemma Barsby (Thunder) In: Maia Bouchier (Stars), Emma de Broughe (Renegades) Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Shafali Verma surpasses Smriti Mandhana in an elite list as India women T20I series against Zimbabwe

The Indian womens team put in a strong performance against Zimbabwe in the second T20I of the ongoing three-game series. The two sides met at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium, Raipur, on October...

Where does Matt Renshaw rank in the eyes of the ICC after conquering Kingsmead?

Renshaw came oh so close to racking up two centuries in one match as the Aussies took a series lead in South Africa. The post Where does Matt Renshaw rank in the eyes of the ICC after conquering Kingsmead? appeared first on Cricket365 .

India vs New Zealand: 100 Years of Rivalry, World Cup Preparations and a Landmark Tour

India begins its New Zealand tour 2026 in Christchurch on October 22, and the contest will be about much more than runs and wickets. For the hosts, it is a commercial opportunity and a chance to strengthen their growing reputation as one of the most formidable opponents in international cricket. For India, it is an opportunity to play in some of the most testing conditions in world cricket and test themselves ahead of the forthcoming World Cup. Spread across six weeks, the 12-match programme comprises five T20 Internationals, five One-Day Internationals and two Tests. It is the largest inbound international tour in New Zealand Cricket's history by number of matches, with Christchurch, Wellington, Auckland, Hamilton and Tauranga hosting the action. The tour coincides with the commemoration of 100 years of sporting ties between India and New Zealand, which began with an Indian Army hockey team's visit in 1926. India's relationship with New Zealand cricket has a fascinating history. Their first Test tour of New Zealand in 1967-68 became a landmark in Indian cricket, as the team led by Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi won the four-Test series 3-1. It was India's first-ever overseas Test series victory. Over the years, India have experienced both success and frustration on New Zealand soil. Their 2008-09 tour brought a memorable 1-0 Test series victory, India's first Test series triumph there since 1968. The 2013-14 tour was far more closely fought, while the 2019-20 visit ended in a 2-0 Test series defeat. The rivalry has since acquired a new intensity. New Zealand defeated India in the 2019 World Cup semi-final and the inaugural World Test Championship final in 2021. India responded with victories in the 2023 World Cup semi-final and the 2024 Champions Trophy final, before the two sides met again in the 2026 T20 World Cup final. However, in October-November 2024, New Zealand became the first team to defeat India in a three-Test series on Indian soil, recording a historic 3-0 sweep. New Zealand also won their first-ever bilateral ODI series in India, taking the three-match contest 2-1 in January 2026. NZC has indicated that income from India's visit can support the wider game for two or three years. This is significant against the backdrop of a reported NZ$7.3 million deficit for the financial year ended July 2026. It has now projected a surplus exceeding NZ$10 million for the following financial year, with the India tour expected to be a major contributor. For a relatively small cricketing nation, a successful India tour can therefore deliver benefits that go far beyond full stadiums. The money generated can help sustain the system that produces the next generation of New Zealand cricketers. They have even secured major sponsorship contracts from India, with 'Hero MotoCorp' and a new company called 'Ai+ Smartphone'. The ODI leg carries particular significance because it provides a rare opportunity to assess India's white-ball resources ahead of the 2027 World Cup. It could also offer New Zealand supporters the chance to watch Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, two of the defining figures of modern Indian cricket, in the format in which they continue to feature. Clearly, New Zealand aim to capitalise on the buzz generated by their presence in the squad. Incidentally, the matches hold special significance for both players. Among the SENA nations, New Zealand is the only country where Rohit has not scored a hundred and where Virat Kohli has never been named 'Player of the Match'. This represents a final opportunity for them to change that record. In this ODI series, New Zealand players will wear a special jersey designed to mark the completion of 100 years of sporting relations between the two countries. The contrast between the two countries remains striking: India's vast cricketing resources and global following versus New Zealand's compact but highly competitive cricket system. Yet the history of this rivalry shows that size and resources do not guarantee victory. The New Zealand media have dubbed the series the '1.48 billion people vs. 5 million people' contest. When the first ball is bowled in Christchurch, the contest will begin with a century of sporting friendship behind it and the memory of recent battles fresh in the minds of both teams. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories It is also worth noting that, before this tour, India had never played a Test match on New Zealand soil in November. There was a time when tours of Australia and New Zealand were combined rather than playing separate series against New Zealand. Now, thanks to improved travel connectivity and resources, touring New Zealand for a cricket series is no longer as difficult.

Abhimanyu: The 'dream' to play for India is 'still there'

Abhimanyu, 31, was part of the India Test squad on the tour of England in 2025 but has not been picked since

Darcie Brown ruled out of WBBL with a back injury

Brown is yet to return to training after suffering a disc injury on the Australia A tour of India last month

Scoring Runs Is Not Easy: Agha Credits Domestic Cricket For International Turnaround

Salman Agha: Pakistan batter Salman Agha has credited domestic cricket for helping him rediscover his batting rhythm after a difficult spell at the international level, with the 32-year-old making an emphatic return to ODI action through a match-winning century against Sri Lanka on Sunday, during the opening fixture of the tri-series also featuring England. Agha, who had not represented Pakistan internationally since August, struck an unbeaten 107 off 90 deliveries to steer the hosts to victory. His performance came after a challenging period in which he lost his place in Pakistans T20I and Test sides, as well as the captaincy in the shortest format. Rather than allowing the setbacks to derail his campaign, the right-hander returned to Pakistans domestic circuit, where a substantial run-scoring spree helped him rebuild his confidence and correct technical flaws. Speaking after his innings against Sri Lanka, Agha called for greater recognition of domestic cricket, arguing that performances outside the international arena should not be dismissed when established players return to the circuit to regain form. I feel that we dont give enough respect to our domestic cricket, Agha said after his innings of 107 from just 90 deliveries against Sri Lanka. The Pakistan batter had given selectors plenty to consider during his time away from the national team. Representing Kingsmen in the Presidents Trophy Grade-I competition, he struck an unbeaten triple-century in mid-September before registering another hundred towards the end of the following month. Those performances came across five domestic matches and proved instrumental in preparing him for his international comeback. Agha was particularly critical of the perception that runs scored in domestic competitions carry less weight than those made at the highest level, insisting that success in such environments requires considerable effort and consistency. People think conditions there are very easy and scoring runs is a walk in the parkwhich isnt true, otherwise everyone would go and score. When a player like me scores runs there, social media, ex-cricketers, or the media often downplay it by saying, Oh, he just scored runs in domestic (cricket). Let me tell you, scoring runs in domestic cricket is not easy. You have to go there, play well, and fight for your runs; otherwise, runs simply dont come. Its unfortunate when people talk down about domestic cricket, because players who come up through that systemlike me, after 10 years of domestic cricket followed by four or four and a half years of international performance, or Saud (Shakeel), who also came through domestic cricket and played so well todaydeserve recognition. Many others do too. Its time we all respect domestic cricket. Instead of saying that scoring in domestic cricket is easy when an international player goes back out of form and performs there, we should appreciate it. Look at me: I came back after playing five domestic matches. My batting alignment and mechanics were out of place, but I went there, played, performed, and improved significantly. Today, by the grace of Allah, that success translated here. Its time to give domestic cricket the respect it deserves, he expressed. The century also offered a response to the questions surrounding Aghas recent international struggles. Despite having been a consistent performer for Pakistan over several years, a difficult run in Test cricket preceded his omission from the squad for the tour of England, after he had captained the side in the opening Test at Leeds. His exclusion from the T20I setup added to the uncertainty surrounding his position in the national team. However, Agha maintained that a temporary dip in performance should be viewed in the context of a players broader career rather than being treated as a definitive measure of his ability. He also acknowledged the difficulty of recovering from a poor run against international opposition. I mean, three or four Test matches didnt go well, but I had been performing consistently for four years before that, Agha noted. So I dont think being in or out of the limelight changes things drastically. But yes, when you face a rough patch in international cricket, getting out of it isnt easy because you are playing high-risk cricket under immense pressure against the best professionals in the world. So I dont think being in or out of the limelight changes things drastically. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Rinku Singh Slams Second Consecutive Ranji Trophy Ton, Fans Blast BCCI For Ignoring Him

Rinku Singh, who represents Uttar Pradesh, scored 112 against Bihar and followed it up with an unbeaten 118 against Goa.

Indias scheduling SNAFU how much is too much?

In these last 114 days since Shreyas first walked out for the toss, India have played 21 matches against Ireland, England, Zimbabwe, Afghanistan, Japan, Sri Lanka, Pakistan and the West Indies. Imagine playing every one of these matches, in different time zones

Kuldeep has been treated unfairly, feels Ashwin

South Africa 20-2 against Australia at stumps as rain spoils day one of second cricket Test

South Africa was struggling at 20-2 at stumps, after the morning session at St. George's Park in Gqeberha was nearly completely lost to the weather.

'That Was A Batting Masterclass': Zimbabwe Captain Nkomo On India's Chase

Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International: Zimbabwe captain Josephine Nkomo hailed India's batting performance in the second T20I of the three-match series at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium here on Sunday. India captain Smriti Mandhana (47* from 25 balls) and vice-captain Shafali Verma (55 from 25 balls) put up a 96-run partnership for the opening wicket off just 47 balls to kill the meagre chase of 103 to win the second match by nine wickets and take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series. Nkomo was in awe of the Indian batters and stated that it was a good learning experience for the team. I thought that was a batting masterclass by the Indian team. We just stood there and had to watch and learn, and there's no better way to learn than actually experiencing the carnage that happened out there, Nkomo said in the post-match presentation. During their 96-run association, Shafali and Mandhana also became the first pair to aggregate 1000-plus runs as a pair for any wicket in a single year in the format. During her 55, Shafali also became the first women's cricketer to aggregate more than 900 runs in a single year in T20Is as she now has 922 runs in 2026, well clear of South Africa captain Laura Wolvaardt, who has hit 824 runs this year. While India were on a roll with the bat after a strong performance with the ball, Zimbabwe's batters found time pretty hard in the middle. They made 20/1 in the powerplay and played 29 dot balls in the first six overs, which is now the second most by a team in Women T20Is in India. The Women in Blue had played 30 dot balls in the first six overs against Pakistan women in Delhi in 2016 and then against South Africa women in Surat in 2019. Zimbabwe captain reflected on her batting, underlining that they need to do well in the powerplay. Yeah, I think the main difference today was we didn't have a good start in the powerplay, and let's just hope in the next game, hopefully we'll have a good start, set a good foundation for everyone else to finish off the game well and not expose our bowlers, she said. The Women in Blue had played 30 dot balls in the first six overs against Pakistan women in Delhi in 2016 and then against South Africa women in Surat in 2019. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Cricket West Indies name replacement for Keemo Paul ahead of Bangladesh Tests; Check details

With the conclusion of the multi-format series against the Indian team, the West Indies is gearing up for a Test series against Bangladesh. The two sides will take on each other in two Test matches,...

Is fast-rising all-rounder Dhir the missing piece in Indias T20 puzzle?

The Indian bowling attack has been rather mediocre in pace spearheads Bumrahs absence

Boland Strikes Twice On Return Before Rain Brings Early End To Day One Of Second Test

Proteas Men: Scott Boland struck twice on his return to the Australian team before persistent rain brought an early end to the opening day of the second Test against South Africa here at St George's Park on Sunday. South Africa were 20/2 in 12.2 overs when the showers returned in the afternoon, and with no let-up, day ones play was abandoned at 4:15 pm. The lost overs can be made up over the coming days, though more bad weather is forecast. Brought in place of veteran off-spinner Nathan Lyon as Australia opted for an all-pace attack, Boland removed Aiden Markram and David Bedingham off consecutive deliveries in his second over. Pat Cummins won the toss and chose to bowl first, but drizzle pushed back the start by 90 minutes. Only 5.3 overs were bowled before another interruption forced an early lunch. Mitchell Starc found the going tough as Markram drove him handsomely twice, and Boland was introduced as soon as play resumed. He started with a maiden, including beating the edge of debutant Marques Ackerman. In his next over, Boland got one to nip back and take Markram's inside edge to crash into middle stump. On the next ball, Bedingham pushed away from his body at one in the channel outside off stump and thick edge was pouched safely. South Africa skipper Temba Bavuma survived the hat-trick ball - an inside edge on to his pad drawing only muted appeals. Ackerman, who had never opened in first-class cricket before, endured a testing start, remaining scoreless for 14 balls before a thick edge squeezed past gully. Lyon's omission marked the first time since 2013 that he had been left out of a red-ball Test when available. He was also dropped from day-night Tests in Jamaica and Brisbane last year, much to his displeasure. Australia's spin duties will be shared by part-timers Matt Renshaw, Travis Head, Beau Webster and Marnus Labuschagne. South Africa brought back Kagiso Rabada in place of Keshav Maharaj but retained specialist spinner Simon Harmer. Matthew Breetzke also came in, with Ryan Rickelton being the wicketkeeper. Australia have a 1-0 lead after winning the first Test in Durban by 214 runs. Lyon's omission marked the first time since 2013 that he had been left out of a red-ball Test when available. He was also dropped from day-night Tests in Jamaica and Brisbane last year, much to his displeasure. Australia's spin duties will be shared by part-timers Matt Renshaw, Travis Head, Beau Webster and Marnus Labuschagne. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Tried to use the angles to be successful: Gurjapneet Singh

'I Couldn't Sleep After Last Match': Shafali After Strong Turnaround Vs ZIM

Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International: India's new vice-captain Shafali Verma had a strong turnaround within two days, from her dismal outing in the first T20I against Zimbabwe to a stellar half-century in the second at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium here on Sunday. Shafali was dismissed by off-spinner Nyasha Gwanzura for four runs in the previous match, but she made strong amends and smashed a strong 55 from 25 balls to help India chase 103 in the second clash that secured them the series. Speaking after the game, the India opener stated that she couldn't even sleep after the opening game after being dismissed in a soft fashion, caught and bowled. After yesterday's match, I can't even sleep, the way I got out in first match. But yeah, I'm just trying to, you know, hold my mind and just try to, you know, last day I'm just trying to, you know, just think what to do tomorrow. So just execute that, Shafali said in the post-match presentation after India's nine-wicket win. Shafali took strike in the chase and smashed the same bowler for a four and a six in the first over and motored her way to a half century off 24 balls, during which she hit six fours and four sixes. She spoke on the amends against spin, stating that she looks to bide her time more. First of all, the way I got out yesterday, first against the spinner, as a righty, it's not the correct thing for me. But yeah, I'm just trying to, you know, bend a bit and time the ball more. So just going simple by simple and just think, you know, if I'm not getting four or six, just trying to give the single and just executing the things which are in my mind, she added. Shafali was running out of the Indian ODI team last year. She stated that she took time to work on her consistency, taking a leaf out of Australian batters. Yeah, of course. As I said, in 2025, when I sat back at home, at that time I just sat and thought about what I could improve. Shafali was running out of the Indian ODI team last year. She stated that she took time to work on her consistency, taking a leaf out of Australian batters. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Ton-Up Agha Helps Pakistan Down Sri Lanka In ODI Tri-Series Opener

India defeated Zimbabwe by nine wickets in the second T20I, chasing 103 in just 8.5 overs. Shafali Verma smashed 55 off 25 balls to set a new calendar-yearSalman Agha marked his return to international cricket with a century as Pakistan beat Sri Lanka by 37 runs in the one-day tri-series opener in Rawalpindi on Sunday. The 32-year-old scored a 90-ball 107 with a six and 10 fours to anchor Pakistan's 305 in 49.5 overs, before skipper Shaheen Shah Afridi grabbed 3-55 to keep Sri Lanka down to 268 in 48.1 overs. The hosts now play England in the second match on Tuesday -- also in Rawalpindi -- in the series seen as a build-up for next year's 50-over World Cup in southern Africa. Pavan Rathnayake (79) and Janith Liyanage's 60 kept the visitors in the chase during a fighting 119-run fifth wicket stand. Opener Kamindu Mendis also contributed with a fluent 44. Rathnayake cracked two sixes and six boundaries while Liyanage's knock had five boundaries, but once both fell only Dasun Shanaka (28) really troubled the scorers as Sri Lanka lost their last five wickets for just 15 runs. Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf and Faheem Ashraf chipped in with two wickets apiece for Pakistan. Earlier, Agha, coming out of a miserable last three months, propelled Pakistan to victory. He was sent home ahead of the third Test in England in August after captaining the team in the first match. These times come on you and I thought that I will go back in domestic cricket and make things right with my performances, said Agha, who was also sacked as Pakistan's T20I captain. I was looking to hit the ball in the pockets to rotate the strike so that we can take our team beyond 300 so we batted aggressively in the end. Agha hit two consecutive boundaries off pacer Asitha Fernando to complete his fourth one-day international hundred, finally falling to the same bowler in the 47th over. He added 97 runs for the fifth wicket with Hasan Nawaz (37) and another 64 for the sixth with Arafat Minhas, who made 18. Left-arm pacer Dilshan Madushanka had jolted Pakistan with the wickets of openers Saim Ayub (seven) and Fakhar Zaman (16). Debutant Saad Baig scored a brisk 40-ball 39 with two sixes and three fours. Along with Babar Azam (45), the pair lifted the score during their 74-run stand. Fast bowler Eshan Malinga dismissed both in successive overs to halt Pakistan's progress before Agha came into his own. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Malinga was the pick of the Sri Lanka bowlers with a career-best 4-46, while Fernando took 3-59.

Salman Ali Agha's Comeback Ton Helps Pakistan Beat Sri Lanka In ODI Tri-Series Opener

Salman Agha marked his return to international cricket with a century as Pakistan beat Sri Lanka by 37 runs in the one-day tri-series opener in Rawalpindi on Sunday.

Shafali Reveals Australian Influence Behind Her Consistency Quest

Indian opener Shafali Verma, after her aggressive fifty against Zimbabwe, revealed she studied Australian batters to improve her consistency. Her 25-ball 55 helped India secure a series-clinching nine-wicket win in the second T20I. Skipper Smriti Mandhana praised Shafali's performance and the team's improved bowling effort, while Zimbabwe's captain Josephine Nkomo acknowledged learning from India's batting masterclass.

Priyansh Arya Agonisingly Falls For 199 As Delhi Dominate Gujarat

Priyansh Arya missed out on a maiden first-class double century by the narrowest of margins, but his superb knock put Delhi in a commanding position on the opening day of their Ranji Trophy Elite Group C match against Gujarat as they reached 381/4 on Sunday.

I Was Dreaming Of This Day: Niki Prasad Reflects On Memorable India Debut

India youngster Niki Prasad said she had been dreaming of making her India debut after producing a composed knock against Zimbabwe in the first women's T20I at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium.

'Bowling Unit Really Came Together': Mandhana Credits Bowlers After 2nd T20I Win

Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International: India's new captain Smriti Mandhana credited her bowlers for having come together during the second T20I against Zimbabwe at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium here on Sunday. The Indian bowlers hunted in a pack as they kept the visitors to 102/8, with Niki Prasad picking up 2-7 in her two overs. Pacers Kranti Gaud and Nandni Sharma and spinners Deepti Sharma and Sree Charani also picked up a wicket each as the Indian bowlers put up an improved performance from the previous match, where the visitors had made 114/5 in their 20 overs. Speaking after the nine-wicket win in the series-sealing second ODI, Mandhana credited the bowlers for their performance. Well, it was a good one today. I felt the bowlers were really on the mark today, much better than the first match. They were executing their yorkers, slower ones, bouncers really well. Then spinners, of course, Deepti, Shree, Niki coming in and bowling those two overs. So overall I feel like, yeah, the bowling unit really came together today. Of course, we could have gotten better with the catching today. That's something which we can be critical about, Mandhana said in the post-match presentation. India also made a tactical adjustment with the ball as they went fuller in the second game, and it reaped rewards as India kept a lid on the visitors. Yeah, as we discussed in the last match, that unknown - of course, we had seen a few batters from the Zimbabwe team, but again today we had much better plans in a way because we knew how they batted in the first game (bowling fuller balls). So yeah, we had a lot of good plans, but you know you can plan as much as you can, but bowlers have to come and execute, and today I felt they were really on the mark, she added. The skipper, who began her full-time captaincy era with a series win, also reflected on the stellar opening partnership of 96 with vice-captain Shafali Verma that killed the chase. Zimbabwe captain Josephine Nkomo had called the Indian chase a masterclass. Mandhana praised Shafali for her 55 from 25 balls while adding that she also made the most of the chances she got during her unbeaten 47 from 25 balls. The skipper, who began her full-time captaincy era with a series win, also reflected on the stellar opening partnership of 96 with vice-captain Shafali Verma that killed the chase. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

India women dominate Zimbabwe to clinch T20I series, register stellar nine-wicket win in Raipur

The ongoing T20I series between India women and Zimbabwe women continued with the two sides taking on each other at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium, Raipur, on October 18th. It is interesting to...

Shafali, Mandhana shine as India beat Zimbabwe by 9 wickets to take unassailable 2-0 series lead

Opener Shafali Verma scored 55 runs in just 25 balls to lead India to victory over Zimbabwe. After choosing to bat first, Zimbabwe struggled and managed to score only 102 runs in their innings. India's bowlers performed well, restricting the opposition and taking key wickets at crucial moments. Shafali and Smriti Mandhana had a partnership of 96 runs for the first wicket, making the chase easier.

Ranji Trophy: Won't Be Satisfied Until I Play For India, Says Gurjapneet After Four-for Against Uttarakhand

Ranji Trophy Elite Group: After picking a four-wicket haul in Tamil Nadu's dominant day one against Uttarakhand in their Ranji Trophy Elite Group D match at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, left-arm pacer Gurjapneet Singh said there would be no satisfaction within him until he gets to play for India. Playing in just his 10th first-class game, Gurjapneet picked 4-34, including three wickets in a probing first spell, as Tamil Nadu bowled out Uttarakhand, last season's semi-finalists, for 134. Gurjapneet had missed the sides match against Rajasthan in Jaipur because of India A 50-over series against Australia in Puducherry. There is no satisfaction unless I play for India. That's the main job, and that box is still empty. I have to tick that. I was just trying to keep it normal, using the angles according to the wicket and batsmen, understanding the batsmen, how they are reacting, Gurjapneet said to reporters at the end of day ones play. Taking the new ball on a red-soil surface that had soaked up heavy overnight rain in Chennai, Gurjapneet took out Aarav Mahajan, before trapping Dega Nischal lbw and dismissing Kunal Chandela, apart from troubling India Under-19 batter Lakshya Raichandani. He completed his four-for by dismissing top-scorer Avneesh Sudha for 54. It (the way of dismissing batters) is just instinct. I watch his feet movement and how he (the batter) is reacting...One ball I bowl from over the stumps and I will (later) come around the stumps. Maybe his conscious mind is ready to play from that angle and the results were positive, he added. Gurjapneet, who has battled injuries in the past, said he had worked hard to manage the switch from white-ball cricket with India A to the rigorous demands of the Ranji Trophy. I was practising a lot with both balls. Coming into the Ranji Trophy, the workload is high and you have to keep maintaining that. It (my body) should not be under-prepared or like overcooked or something. I'm just trying to keep that energy the same because I know (in) red-ball cricket, it's difficult to bowl long spells. I'm trying to keep my body ready for all spells and deliver that. Gurjapneet, who plays for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the IPL and is a part of the BCCI's targeted pool of fast bowlers, also had stints as a net bowler with the Indian team, an experience he stated has given him a lot of belief. You will get the confidence to bowl good batsmen like Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli and all other players. So, when you bowl to them and when you come to the Ranji Trophy, you will get a different kind of confidence in your body. Gurjapneet, who plays for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the IPL and is a part of the BCCI's targeted pool of fast bowlers, also had stints as a net bowler with the Indian team, an experience he stated has given him a lot of belief. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Bowlers, Shafali, Mandhana power India to series win

India eased to victory after limiting Zimbabwe to 102 for 8

2nd T20I: History-creator Prasad 'felt Really Good' After Successive Wickets Against ZIM

Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International: Niki Prasad etched her name into the history books when she took two wickets on back-to-back balls during the second T20I against Zimbabwe at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium here on Sunday. Prasad has become the first Indian cricketer to take wickets on the first two balls in international cricket, setting a new benchmark in the cricket-loving nation. She reflected on her feelings after ending the day with 2-7 in two overs. I feel really good that I was able to get bowling today and use that opportunity to help the team, she said during the mid-innings. Prasad missed a match in the previous match but made a strong amendment in the second game with a brilliant low diving catch of Michelle Mavunga off Sree Charani in the 19th over. I think the last game I missed one catch so I knew if I get another one today, I'll take it, she said on her grab. Meanwhile, Prasad came close to a hat-trick when India appealed for an LBW against Modester Mupachikwa, but they did not review as the ball seemingly missed the leg stump. I felt it was going down leg, so I didn't think we should use the review. I just try staying very calm and apply my basics, and that's why I'm able to apply myself better, she added. Niki came to bowl in the 15th over and struck immediately. She first nicked behind Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano on a delivery that was on a good length and wide, before she plumbed Nyasha Gwanzura on the next delivery. The 20-year-old came close to taking a hat-trick when Mupachikwa missed her flick and was hit on the pads. The Indians appealed but decided against the review. Niki came to bowl in the 15th over and struck immediately. She first nicked behind Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano on a delivery that was on a good length and wide, before she plumbed Nyasha Gwanzura on the next delivery. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

India's World Cup Winner Questions BCCI Over Yashasvi Jaiswal's ODI Omission

On Friday, the BCCI omitted Yashasvi Jaiswal from the ODI squad while announcing the team for the tour of New Zealand.

2nd T20I: Niki Prasad Picks Two As India Women Keep Zimbabwe To 102/8

Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International: Niki Prasad hogged the limelight once again as India women restricted Zimbabwe women to 102/8 in the first innings of the second T20I at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium here on Sunday. Prasad, who made a stellar debut with a match-winning unbeaten 39 in the first match, picked 2-7 in her two overs during the second match against Zimbabwe. She picked up a wicket off her first ball in international cricket and then another on the next ball. Prasad came close to picking up a hat-trick but was denied when her off-spin missed the leg-stump on an LBW appeal. Prasad also become the first Indian women cricketer to take a wicket off her first career ball in T20I cricket. Pacers Kranti Gaud, Nandni Sharma and spinners Deepti Sharma and Sree Charani also scalped a wicket each as the visitors could not even get past the 114/5 they had made in the first T20I despite the hosts making a few errors in the field. India began well with the ball as Kranti and Nandni kept the lid on the Zimbabwe batters after the Women in Blue were asked to bowl. Kranti conceded just one run from the opening over through a wide, and the visitors were crawling at 5/0 after three overs as openers Beloved Biza and Kelis Ndhlovu failed to provide a strong start. Nandni then struck in the fourth over when she cleaned Ndhlovu for an 11-ball duck. Zimbabwe wasted a lot of deliveries in the powerplay and managed to move only to 20/1 in six overs, which saw as many as 29 balls being dot balls. The 29 dots Zimbabwe faced are also the second-most dots in the powerplay of an innings in a Women's T20I in India. The Women in Blue had played 30 dots in the first six overs against Pakistan women in Delhi in 2016 and then against South Africa women in Surat in 2019. Kranti got the second wicket as Sharne Mayers was caught for nine in the ninth over. Captain Josephine Nkomo and Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano looked to put up a fight, but India made errors on the field too. Shafali Verma put down Mugeri at mid-off in the 12th over off Sree Charani before Kranti put down the same batter in the next over at long-on. However, last game's debutant Prasad came just before the death overs and took back-to-back wickets. She first nicked behind Mugeri on a delivery that was on a good length and wide, before she plumbed Nyasha Gwanzura on the next delivery. The 20-year-old came close to taking a hat-trick when Modester Mupachikwa missed her flick and was hit on the pads. The Indians appealed but decided against the review. Modester Mupachikwa was run out when she tried to find a non-existent run in the 18th over. Charani came back and got Michelle Mavunga caught at long-on, while Francisca Chipare was run out on the final ball when the visitors tried to take two runs but managed only one. They ended on 102/8 as Charani continued her strong wicket-taking streak. She now has wickets in each of her last 15 T20Is. Modester Mupachikwa was run out when she tried to find a non-existent run in the 18th over. Charani came back and got Michelle Mavunga caught at long-on, while Francisca Chipare was run out on the final ball when the visitors tried to take two runs but managed only one. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Muhammad Rizwan Gets First Major Relief From Pakistan Cricket Board Amid Betting, Leak Probe

Muhammad Rizwan and his Pakistan teammate Imam-ul-Haq were barred from playing domestic cricket after being called back from England following the second Test in August.