India womens vice-captain Shafali Verma has outlined the teams approach ahead of the upcoming series against Zimbabwe. She said that the focus will be on combining aggressive cricket with better decision-making, as the goal is...
Why RCB's Overseas Puzzle Could Open IPL Door For Shai Hope
Ravichandran Ashwin backs in-form West Indies skipper Shai Hope for an IPL contract, identifying defending champions RCB as a potential fit despite concerns over overseas combinations and batting position.
De Leede To Captain Netherlands In World Cup League 2 Games Against Oman, UAE
ICC Cricket World Cup League: Seam-bowling all-rounder Bas de Leede will captain the Netherlands as they take on Oman and the UAE in the next round of the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 in Dubai later this month, the Royal Dutch Cricket Association (KNCB) announced on Thursday. The 15-member squad will play four matches on the tour, which will also be the first assignment under new head coach Ashley Noffke. The 50-over League 2 is part of the qualification pathway for the 2027 ODI World Cup, to be held in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia from October 2 to November 21. The top four sides in the standings will advance to the Global Qualifier, to be played in early 2027. The Netherlands, however, have already secured their place in that qualifying event. The USA have already sealed the League 2 title and sit at the top of the table with 49 points from 36 matches, followed by Scotland on 45 points from as many games. The Netherlands are third with 38 points from 32 matches, while Oman are fourth with 33 points from 30 games. Namibia, fifth, are level with Oman on points but have played 36 matches. The UAE are eighth with 19 points from 32 matches. Noffke said the tour would be used to settle the side's approach and look at fresh faces. We are looking forward to the tournament in the UAE, where we will be focusing on our style of play, our combinations, and creating a great team dynamic that can continue to grow upon the solid platform that already exists. It will be a great tour to look at some of our young and up-and-coming talent, and give them an opportunity to showcase their skill at an international level, he said in a statement. The Netherlands will first take on the UAE on October 25 before facing Oman on October 27. They will meet the UAE again on October 31 and wrap up the tour with a game against Oman on November 2. The hosts and Oman will also play each other on October 29 and November 4. It will be a great tour to look at some of our young and up-and-coming talent, and give them an opportunity to showcase their skill at an international level, he said in a statement. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Cameron Green in doubt for Gqeberha Test
Green returned to the nets for the first time on Thursday, but only faced gentle throwdowns and did some slip catching on the outfield
Pathum Nissanka ruled out, Sri Lanka announce replacement for tri-series against Pakistan, England
Sri Lanka opener Pathum Nissanka has been ruled out of the ODI tri-series against Pakistan and England, starting October 18. He suffered a left hamstring injury during the teams limited-overs tour of England and is yet to regain full fitness. He was initially expected to be fit for the marquee series in Pakistan, but Sri Lanka confirmed that Nissanka is far from returning to competitive cricket. They eventually announced Lahiru Udara as his replacement ahead of the opener against Pakistan.
'Whatever I Want...': Rohit Reveals Secret to Thriving Under Pressure
Rohit Sharma credits meticulous preparation, studying opposition bowlers and mental strength for handling pressure, while maintaining strong ODI form ahead of India's upcoming New Zealand and Sri Lanka series.
Defending Champions UAE Bulls To Face Yas Lions In Abu Dhabi T10 Opener
Defending champions UAE Bulls will begin their title defence against Yas Lions in the Abu Dhabi T10 League on November 7.
India's Jasprit Bumrah Dilemma: Why BCCI May Skip Star For ODIs Against New Zealand
India's Tour of New Zealand starts with a five T20I series on October 22. But with the ODI World Cup next year, and also a World Test Championship final spot up for grabs, the bigger focus will be on the ODI and Test series
IND-W vs ZIM-W 1st T20I Prediction, Match Preview And Playing XI
IND-W vs ZIM-W 1st T20I , Cricket Tips :India Women will host Zimbabwe Women for three ODIs and three T20Is in October. The first game is scheduled to start at Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium, Raipur, on October 16 at 7 PM IST. This is the beginning of the new era for India Women team. Smriti Mandhana has officially replaced Harmanpreet Kaur as the all-format captain. This is the first series for her as full-time captain, and she will be looking to start her tenure with a win. Zimbabwe Women will have a big challenge in front of them, and they will look surprised by the strong Indian side. IND-W vs ZIM-W: Match Details Date : October 16, 2026 (Friday) Time : 7:00 PM IST Venue : Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium, Raipur IND-W vs ZIM-W: Live Streaming Details The live action of the first game will be available on Star Sports Networks. Fans can watch the game on the Jio Hotstar app or website. IND-W vs ZIM-W: Head-to-Head in T20I Total Matches : 0 Zimbabwe Women: 0 India Women : 0 No Result : 0 IND-W vs ZIM-W: Ground Pitch Report The wicket in Raipur is flat and an excellent wicket to bat on. The boundaries are shorter, and the outfield is fast, which allows the batters to play their shots. At this venue, the toss will be crucial as batting second will be an advantage. IND-W vs ZIM-W: Possible XIs India Women: Shafali Verma, Smriti Mandhana (c), Anushka Sharma, Harmanpreet Kaur, Richa Ghosh (wk), Minnu Mani, Prema Rawat, Deepti Sharma, Shree Charani, Nandani Sharma, Kranti Gaud Zimbabwe Women: Kelis Ndhlovu, Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano, Beloved Biza, Chiedza Dhururu (wk), Josephine Nkomo (c), Nyasha Gwanzura, Christine Mutasa, Loryn Phiri, Nomvelo Sibanda, Tendai Makusha, Kudzai Chigora IND-W vs ZIM-W: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Shafali Verma is in excellent form, and she is very dangerous at the top. For Zimbabwe, Beloved Biza is the top scorer in recent times. Probable Best Bowler Shree Charani is the leading wicket-taker in this format, and she will be the one to watch out for, along with Tendai Makusha for Zimbabwe. Today Match Prediction: India Women have an experienced side, and at home they are very strong. Hence, we predict India Women will win this game. IND-W vs ZIM-W Match 1st 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.
Umar hopes to prove a point against Vidarbha
The Jammu and Kashmir was rested for the Ranji Trophy opener against Madhya Pradesh
Trent Boult pens deal with Sydney Thunder ahead of the upcoming BBL 2026-27 season
Sydney Thunder have secured the services of former New Zealand pacer Trent Boult for the entire Big Bash League (BBL) 2026-27 season. Under the new head coach Andrew Flintoff, the franchise aims to strengthen their...
James Coles targets England debut after 'spotlight' of Hundred price-tag
Allrounder earned lucrative contract with London Spirit but struggled to produce his best form
Pace plus skills ideal for fast bowlers, reckons Sanjeev
The Delhi bowling coach feels the one who knows how to bowl well with a red cherry can even play T10
Pace plus skills ideal for fast bowlers, reckons Sanjeev
The Delhi bowling coach feels the one who knows how to bowl well with a red cherry can even play T10
England Include Filer, Wong, And Corteen-Coleman In A Squads For Tour To India
England Women Performance Programme: Pacers Lauren Filer, Issy Wong and left-arm spinner Tilly Corteen-Coleman have been named in all three England A squads for a multi-format tour of India, set to happen in November and December. The trio, who were part of Englands runners-up finish in this years T20 World Cup at home, headline a set of experienced squads for the seven-match series against India A, comprising three T20s, three one-dayers and a four-day game. In all, 11 players picked across the three formats have already represented England. Mady Villiers and Jodi Grewcock, who played international cricket this summer, join Lauren, Issy and Tilly as the other capped players named in all three squads. Warwickshire all-rounder Charis Pavely and Surrey wicketkeeper-batter Kira Chathli, who led England A in their two home white-ball series against India A earlier this year, also feature in squads across all formats. Essex top-order batter Grace Scrivens, who topped the run charts for either side in England A's 2-1 ODI series loss to India A and was the captain in the side finishing runners-up in the 2023 U19 Womens T20 World Cup, has been picked for the 50-over and four-day squads. Surrey bowler Ryana MacDonald-Gay, the leading wicket-taker in England A's 2-1 T20 series win over India A, is named in both white-ball squads. Head coach Jon 'JJ' Lewis said the squads were built around players on the cusp of senior selection, with next summer's Ashes in mind. The selection for A squads is often about the bigger picture and getting ready for challenges further down the line. These squads have an element of that, but are more about the players who are considered the next in line for the senior England teams, as well as the players who are looking to establish themselves in those teams. With the Ashes next summer, we are keen to see some valuable top-level competitive game time against India's next best for several players who will be in contention for selection next year, particularly in the 50-over and 4-day games. We head to India with strong ambitions to be successful, knowing that a tour to India is always a tough assignment. They toured the UK in the summer and had some success over here, so we know it will be a challenge that we are looking forward to meeting head-on, he said in a statement. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said captains for the three squads will be named later. The selectors have also picked six players for the England Women Performance Programme at home happening this winter four of which are named in the A tour squads. The T20s will be played at the MCA Stadium in Pune on November 30, December 3 and December 5 respectively. It is followed by the one-dayers at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium on December 8, 11 and 14 respectively, before a four-day game happens from December 19 to 22. England A squads for India tour: T20 team: Hannah Baker, Grace Ballinger, Kira Chathli, Tilly Corteen-Coleman, Lauren Filer, Jodi Grewcock, Bess Heath, Niamh Holland, Emma Jones, Ryana MacDonald-Gay, Charis Pavely, Grace Potts, Jemima Spence, Grace Thompson, Mady Villiers, and Issy Wong. 50-over team: Hannah Baker, Grace Ballinger, Kira Chathli, Tilly Corteen-Coleman, Lauren Filer, Katie George, Jodi Grewcock, Bess Heath, Niamh Holland, Emma Lamb, Ryana MacDonald-Gay, Charis Pavely, Grace Potts, Grace Scrivens, Ellie Threlkeld, Mady Villiers, and Issy Wong. Four-day team: Hannah Baker, Grace Ballinger, Kira Chathli, Tilly Corteen-Coleman, Lauren Filer, Katie George, Jodi Grewcock, Bess Heath, Emma Lamb, Charis Pavely, Grace Potts, Grace Scrivens, Ellie Threlkeld, Mady Villiers, and Issy Wong. 50-over team: Hannah Baker, Grace Ballinger, Kira Chathli, Tilly Corteen-Coleman, Lauren Filer, Katie George, Jodi Grewcock, Bess Heath, Niamh Holland, Emma Lamb, Ryana MacDonald-Gay, Charis Pavely, Grace Potts, Grace Scrivens, Ellie Threlkeld, Mady Villiers, and Issy Wong. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
PM Modi Interacts With Asian Games Participants, Receives Special Mementoes
Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday interacted with Indias Asian Games 2026 contingent at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium here, where sportspersons from several disciplines presented him with special mementoes celebrating their achievements at the Aichi-Nagoya Games. The interaction brought together athletes, coaches, support staff, and officials from the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), the various national sports federations and the Sports Ministry, following Indias fourth-place finish at the continental sporting event with 85 medals. Among those who presented mementoes to the Prime Minister was Wushu exponent Naorem Roshibina Devi of Manipur, who won silver in the womens 60kg category. She gifted Modi a traditional Manipuri Lengyan, a handwoven loincloth featuring the Sangai deer. Golfer Pranavi Urs, who scripted history by winning Indias first womens individual golf gold at the Asian Games, presented the Prime Minister with her glove and a golf ball. Recurve archer Kumkum Mohod gifted a wooden bow decorated with shells and other embellishments. Mohod was among Indias standout performers at the Games, winning two gold medals and a silver across archery events. Jay Meena, who secured bronze in the mens singles soft tennis event, presented his racquet to Modi. His podium finish marked Indias first-ever medal in soft tennis at the Asian Games. The Indian womens cricket team presented a signed Team India jersey, while the womens hockey team gifted the Prime Minister a hockey stick and an orange jersey bearing the signatures of all its players. Both teams were among the highlights of Indias campaign, with the cricketers successfully defending their Asian Games title and the hockey team claiming its first gold since 1982. Jay Meena, who secured bronze in the mens singles soft tennis event, presented his racquet to Modi. His podium finish marked Indias first-ever medal in soft tennis at the Asian Games. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
On Yashasvi Jaiswal's Wicketkeeping, Ex-BCCI Chief Selector's Blunt Natural Instinct Remark
Yashasvi Jaiswal has been working on wicketkeeping as a backup skill to batting and leg-spin.
'Would Love To See Him vs Australia': Ex-India Selector Backs Mohammed Shami
Bhuvneshwar Kumar's return to the Indian team has reignited discussions over the continued exclusion of pacer Mohammed Shami.
Sydney Thunder sign Boult for entire BBL 2026-27 season
There could be a calendar clash in January for Boult if Thunder make the finals and at the same time his SA20 team MICT start their campaign in South Africa
The Indian women's cricket team aims to play a fearless brand of cricket while being smart heading into the Women's Champions Trophy at home early next year, vice-captain Shafali Verma said on Thursday.
Zak Crawley Signs One-year Kent Extension After Losing England Central Contract
Wales Cricket Board: England opening batter Zak Crawley has signed a one-year contract extension with Kent, returning to the county as his primary employer after six years on the England and Wales Cricket Boards (ECB) central contract list. A product of the Kent Cricket Academy, Crawley has made more than 180 appearances for his home county since making his first-team debut in 2017, scoring over 7,400 runs across formats. He has registered 10 centuries for Kent and is one of only seven players in the clubs history to score a hundred or more across all formats. Crawley, who received Kent Mens Cap number 219 in 2019, was part of the countys T20 Blast-winning team in 2021. He has also featured in both of Kents County Championship promotion campaigns, in 2018 and 2026, with the club set to return to Division One next season. Im delighted to sign on for a further year at my boyhood county. Its an exciting time as we head back into Division One of the County Championship and Im looking forward to the challenge of competing for Kent this coming Summer. Its great to see so many young players coming through the system here, similar to my journey into first-team cricket, and Im excited to help them settle into the first-team and further their development for the long-term, Crawley said in a club statement. The 28-year-old lost his England central contract for the 2026-27 cycle after being dropped from the Test side at the start of the home summer, following an extended run at the top of the order. Crawley was one of only two players, alongside Lancashires Luke Wood, to lose their deals on performance grounds when the ECB announced its list of 30 centrally contracted players this week. Kent Director of Cricket Simon Cook welcomed the extension, highlighting Crawleys experience and his role in supporting the countys younger players. Were extremely pleased that Zak has extended his contract with the Club for what will be his 11th season in our first team. He is an extremely talented batter and is a huge presence in our dressing room. His experience of playing around the world not only benefits us on the field, but he is always willing to pass on his knowledge to our younger batters, something that will benefit us in the long term. His multi-format ability means that he is an integral part of our squad going into 2027, he said. The new deal will see Crawley enter his 11th season in Kents first team, with the club preparing for its return to the County Championships top division in 2027. His experience of playing around the world not only benefits us on the field, but he is always willing to pass on his knowledge to our younger batters, something that will benefit us in the long term. His multi-format ability means that he is an integral part of our squad going into 2027, he said. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Pollards UAE Bulls To Open Abu Dhabi T10 Title Defence Against Holders Yas Lions On Nov 7
Abu Dhabi Sports Council: Defending champions UAE Bulls, led by West Indies star Kieron Pollard, will begin their Abu Dhabi T10 title defence against Jason Holders Yas Lions on November 7, as the tournament enters a new era under the ownership and management of Abu Dhabi Cricket & Sports Hub (ADCSH). The 2026 edition will feature six franchises competing across 32 matches at Abu Dhabis Zayed Cricket Stadium from November 7 to 20. All six teams will be in action on the opening day, while another triple-header on November 19 is expected to intensify the race for qualification ahead of the tournaments concluding day. UAE Bulls will face Yas Lions in the opening fixture, with Pollard set to headline a squad that also includes Sunil Narine and Romario Shepherd. Yas Lions, meanwhile, will draw on the experience of Holder, David Willey, James Vince and Dasun Shanaka. The opening days second fixture will see Royal Desert Champions take on Emirates Eagles. Royal Desert Champions feature Nicholas Pooran, Phil Salt and Naseem Shah, while the Eagles will look to make an impression in a tournament featuring several established international names. The day will conclude with United Tigers facing Arabian Aces. United Tigers have Fakhar Zaman and Azmatullah Omarzai in their ranks, while Arabian Aces will feature the likes of Moeen Ali, Andre Russell and Liam Livingstone. The tournaments new ownership structure marks a significant transition for the Abu Dhabi T10, with ADCSH taking charge and receiving support from the Abu Dhabi Sports Council and the Emirates Cricket Board. Five new franchise ownership groups have joined the defending champions as the competition looks to strengthen its governance, broaden its international appeal and establish a platform for sustained growth. The league stage will reach its climax on November 19, when all six teams return to action in three fixtures that could determine the final standings. UAE Bulls will meet Arabian Aces, setting up a potential showdown between Pollard and Russell, two of the most recognisable power-hitters in franchise cricket. Yas Lions will then face Royal Desert Champions, bringing Holder and Pooran into focus, before Emirates Eagles take on United Tigers in the final league fixture. With qualification positions potentially undecided until the final match, net run rate could prove crucial in separating the competing sides. Matt Boucher, CEO of ADCSH and Abu Dhabi T10, said the opening schedule would provide an ideal start to the competitions next chapter. There could hardly be a better way to begin this new chapter of the Abu Dhabi T10 than with our defending champions opening the tournament and all six franchises in action on the very first day. All the competing teams feature outstanding international talent, and the schedule promises exciting cricket from the opening match through to the final. What makes this edition particularly exciting is the way the tournament builds towards its conclusion. With all six teams playing on the final day of the league stage, there is every possibility that the race for qualification could go down to the wire. That is exactly the kind of excitement and unpredictability that makes T10 cricket so compelling. The 2026 tournament represents a new innings for Abu Dhabi T10. With a fresh franchise structure, some of the biggest names in international cricket and a clear vision for the future, we are looking forward to delivering an outstanding competition that strengthens Abu Dhabis reputation as a global destination for cricket and sport. Each of the six franchises UAE Bulls, Yas Lions, Royal Desert Champions, Emirates Eagles, United Tigers and Arabian Aces will play ten matches in a double round-robin league format. The league phase will comprise 30 matches, with November 12 designated as a rest day. The tournament will conclude on November 20 with the qualifier and final. The team finishing at the top of the league standings will advance directly to the final, while the second- and third-placed teams will meet in the qualifier. The winner will progress to the final to determine the 2026 champions. Each of the six franchises UAE Bulls, Yas Lions, Royal Desert Champions, Emirates Eagles, United Tigers and Arabian Aces will play ten matches in a double round-robin league format. The league phase will comprise 30 matches, with November 12 designated as a rest day. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International: Newly appointed T20I vice-captain Shafali Verma said on Thursday that her role in the Indian team leadership group will go beyond that title, adding that the side are aiming to play a fearless yet smart brand of T20 cricket in next years Champions Trophy. India, to be now captained by Smriti Mandhana, will begin its preparation for the inaugural six-team tournament, to be played in Mumbai and Vadodara in February 2027, when they open the T20I series against Zimbabwe at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium on Friday. Just talking about vice-captaincy, I have done captaincy in the Under-19 World Cup as well. So, I have that experience. I know vice-captaincy is not just a title. It's a big responsibility. I know we have to just take care of each and every player and make them in a very good headspace. So, I am just trying to make every player very comfortable and just help the captain, Shafali said in the pre-match press conference. She also credited former captain Harmanpreet Kaur for the growth of the women's game and said the team had already mapped out its approach for the road ahead. Harman di has done a lot of growth to women's cricket. The current shape of women's cricket, it's just all about Harman di only. So, just thanks to her and just talking about how we have to move forward in women's cricket. First of all, we have to play a fearless brand of cricket in T20, with smartness as well. So, we have just talked in this series that we have to play the Champions Trophy, the fearless brand of cricket with the smartness and we have done lots of meetings. So, everyone knows what to do and you guys can also see the growth. So, we are just trying to keep growing series by series, she added. Shafali, who has been in prolific form via scores of 64, 68, 40 not out, 100 not out and 48, traced her resurgence to the work she put in after being left out of the ODI side in 2025, before a call-up came following Pratika Rawal's injury led to her dramatic return to the ODI World Cup team and capped it off with a Player of the Match performance in the final against South Africa in Navi Mumbai. When Pratika got injured, I got a direct call to be back in the team. Luckily, at that time I was playing state T20 games from Haryana. So, I worked a lot on myself in 2025 and I think that hard work which I did in 2025, it gave me lots of help right now. So, I am just trying to keep my head down and just keep learning everything. Every day brings every new experience, and I am just trying to learn everything, she said. Shafali recalled that spending time out of the team forced her to take a hard look at her game. I think in 2025, when I got out of the team, I sat down and analysed myself which things I have to work on. First of all, consistency and then fitness, which meant I had to work on my body. Mentally, I have to grow more. So, these three things, I did hard work at that time. I think because of that, everything is going well. So, I am just trying to be more consistent. Shafali, who has also been chipping in with her off-spin, said she had long prepared for the possibility of bowling at the international level. Bowling is nothing new for me because I have been bowling for Haryana since 2021. So, I know when I used to bowl for Haryana, I used to think that someday I will have to bowl for India. So, I used to keep myself mentally prepared at that time that if I get bowling in the Indian team, then how do I have to prepare. With God's grace at that time, I am just trying to get used to the thinking that when I will get bowling in the Indian team, then what do I have to do and luckily I did that. Mentally, I have been ahead only and it's a great thing. Aware that opponents now plan specifically for her, Shafali said she recreates various match scenarios in the nets. I know that the other opponent team does all the preparation for me. So, in the net sessions, I always prepare for that. If my hitting is not good in the net session, then how do I play along the ground? So, I put myself in various situations in every net session. So, I think it is easy for me to go into the match because of that practice. On every skill, on short balls, even on spinner's back foot punch and even the pull shots as well. So, I have worked on that and I can see a very good reflection. So, I have to just keep doing the hard work. In the absence of injured Jemimah Rodrigues, Shafali said the batting order had coped well and backed youngster Niki Prasad to step up. Jemi is recovering. But, in the Asia Cup and Asian Games, we were very good in the middle order. We didn't feel so much absence of it. So, I think it is easy for me to go into the match because of that practice. On every skill, on short balls, even on spinner's back foot punch and even the pull shots as well. So, I have worked on that and I can see a very good reflection. So, I have to just keep doing the hard work. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Lacks Common Sense: Unfiltered R Ashwin Blasts Decision To Drop India Star
After India lost the fourth T20I against West Indies, Ravichandran Ashwin expressed his astonishment at the Indian team management's decision to drop Kuldeep Yadav from the playing XI.
'Gill And I Got Along Well And Spoke About Differences In Our Sports': F1 Driver Lindblad
Arvid Lindblad: Indian-origin Formula 1 driver Arvid Lindblad is highly impressed by teenage cricketer Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and had recently shared thoughts with India Test and ODI captain Shubman Gill, discussing the differences between their respective sports. Lindblad, who races for Racing Bulls, met Gill at Silverstone during the ongoing 2026 Formula One season and again when he attended India's cricket match against England earlier this year. He described Gill as really nice and, during the discussion, highlighted how athletes can learn from one another despite competing in different sports. Speaking in an interview with NDTV, the 19-year-old was asked whether he had the opportunity to exchange thoughts with Gill about the demands of competing at the highest level of sport. We spoke briefly about the differences between our sports and some of the ways he manages things, Lindblad said. One of the cool aspects of sport is that athletes can learn from each other, but we didn't have a particularly deep conversation. It was a fairly short interaction. He also spoke about the emergence of teenage cricket sensation Sooryavanshi, praising the youngster's ability to perform on a major stage at such a young age. He's obviously very impressive. It's amazing to see someone so young performing on such a big stage, Lindblad said. Asked why young athletes across disciplines are making their mark so early, Lindblad pointed to advances in technology, coaching and preparation. Maybe it's the rajma or something! he joked, before adding that improvements in technology, coaching and preparation were helping young athletes learn faster than ever. Asked why young athletes across disciplines are making their mark so early, Lindblad pointed to advances in technology, coaching and preparation. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Former India Assistant Coach Compares Shai Hope To Australian Great After India Hammering
Former India assistant coach Abhishek Nayar has compared Shai Hope's dominance against India to Matthew Hayden's impact during Australia's tours of the country in the 2000s.
'Lacks Common Sense': Ashwin Questions Kuldeep's Omission
Former India spinner R Ashwin has criticised the team management's decision to drop left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav from the playing eleven during the ongoing T20I series against the West Indies. Ashwin stated that the decision lacked common sense, especially given Kuldeep's previous performance and the West Indies batters' struggles against him. He believes Kuldeep's presence could have significantly impacted the game's outcome.
South Africa Announce Squad For The Hong Kong Sixes 2026
Tin Kwong Road Recreation Ground: South Africa will return to the Hong Kong Sixes with a seven-member squad led by Jorich van Schalkwyk for the tournament scheduled to be held at the Tin Kwong Road Recreation Ground from October 30 to November 1. The squad features Steve Stolk, Abdullah Bayoumy, Ayabulela Gqamane, Alindile Mhletywa, Blake Simpson and Heath Richards alongside captain van Schalkwyk. Three members of the team, van Schalkwyk, Simpson and Bayoumy, were also part of South Africas campaign in the previous edition. South Africa A coach, Wandile Gwavu, will guide the side in the fast-paced competition, where teams have limited time to establish control and make the most of their batting and bowling opportunities. Van Schalkwyk was South Africas leading run-scorer in the 2025 edition, finishing with 122 runs. Bayoumy topped the teams bowling charts with four wickets, while Simpson made contributions with both bat and ball. The returning players will provide valuable experience as South Africa prepare to compete in a format that places a premium on aggressive batting, versatile bowling and quick decision-making. South Africa have been placed in Group D alongside Afghanistan and Oman. Their group-stage matches will be crucial in determining their chances of progressing to the knockout rounds. The Hong Kong Sixes features a six-a-side format that encourages attacking cricket, with rapid changes in momentum and a strong emphasis on all-round performances. The tournament is expected to offer players an opportunity to showcase their skills in a condensed version of the game. India had earlier announced their squad for the competition, with Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Krunal Pandya, Shashank Singh, Rahul Tewatia, Nitish Rana, Rahul Tripathi and T. Natarajan named in the team. However, Bhuvneshwars participation in the Hong Kong tournament could be in doubt after he was selected for Indias T20I squad for the upcoming series against New Zealand. The tournament will be broadcast live in India on Sony Sports Network, while live streaming will be available on FanCode. However, Bhuvneshwars participation in the Hong Kong tournament could be in doubt after he was selected for Indias T20I squad for the upcoming series against New Zealand. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
'No replacement for Bumrah' - Sanju Samson reflects on India's defeat to West Indies in fourth T20I
Sanju Samson has admitted that India cannot find a direct replacement for Jasprit Bumrah, but believes the team has promising pace-bowling options capable of improving with experience and consistent backing. His comments come ahead of...
Smriti Mandhana Era Begins As India Eye T20 Reset Against Zimbabwe
India will look to significantly refine their T20 game when the era of new captain Smriti Mandhana begins with a three-match series against a spirited Zimbabwe side on Friday.
Samson admits India miss Bumrah amid T20 run-fest
India's bowling struggles in the ongoing West Indies T20I series have brought Jasprit Bumrah's absence into sharp focus. Despite conceding high totals, Sanju Samson expressed confidence in young pacers like Arshdeep Singh and Prince Yadav, highlighting the need for consistent backing.
Veteran Batter Wayne Madsen Signs New One-year Red-ball Deal With Derbyshire
County Championship Division Two: Veteran batter Wayne Madsen has signed a new one-year red-ball contract with Derbyshire. The long-serving skipper, who first walked into the Derbyshire dressing room in 2009, has amassed more than 24,000 runs across formats for the club, including 52 centuries. That body of work that has earned him a place among the county championships batting greats. Madsen continues to captain the side in the longer format, a role he returned to ahead of the 2025 season. He had earlier led Derbyshire to the County Championship Division Two title in 2012. The South Africa-born batter had retired from domestic T20 cricket in July, after playing his last T20 Blast match against Leicestershire Foxes. The new deal means he will play only red-ball cricket for Derbyshire in 2027. The County Championship is so important to me and I know how much it means to our members and supporters. Getting back to Division One is a goal I still have, and I'll do everything I can to help us achieve it. To be going into my 19th season with Derbyshire is something I'm incredibly proud of. I've loved my time at the Club and I'm really excited to have the opportunity to keep representing Derbyshire and contributing to the team, said Madsen in a statement by the club on Thursday. Having moved back to South Africa last winter, Madsen, who was present in Italys maiden Mens T20 World Cup campaign earlier this year in India, but was sidelined due to a shoulder injury, said the arrangement suited his family as well. I often speak about how Derbyshire has become an adopted home for me and my family, and this new deal will allow us to spend time here, but also in South Africa, having moved back there last winter. I'd like to thank the Derbyshire supporters for always being behind the team and me. Their support has meant so much throughout my career and I still have the same hunger and excitement to perform for Derbyshire as I did when I first joined in 2009, he added. Reflecting on a mixed 2026 campaign, Madsen remained upbeat about the season ahead. While results didn't always go the way we'd hoped in 2026, there were plenty of positive signs and I believe strongly in the quality we have within the group. I'm really excited about what we can achieve next summer and we'll be determined to put ourselves in contention for promotion. Derbyshires Head of Cricket Mickey Arthur said the veteran still had plenty to offer. Wayne's leadership and skill remain key assets for us and I'm pleased he will be returning in 2027. He scored two excellent centuries this summer, which shows the level he's still capable of operating at in our red ball team. Reflecting on a mixed 2026 campaign, Madsen remained upbeat about the season ahead. While results didn't always go the way we'd hoped in 2026, there were plenty of positive signs and I believe strongly in the quality we have within the group. I'm really excited about what we can achieve next summer and we'll be determined to put ourselves in contention for promotion. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Crawley signs Kent extension after losing England contract
The club will become Crawley's primary employer again after he spent six years on the ECB's books
Mandhana Captaincy Era Set To Begin As India Take On Zimbabwe (Preview)
Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International: A new chapter in Indian women's cricket will commence on Friday when Smriti Mandhana leads the side as full-time captain for the first time in the opening T20I against Zimbabwe, who are still searching for their first win in the format this year. Fridays clash will mark the start of Zimbabwe's first-ever bilateral series against India, and the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium is set to host a women's international match for the first time. Smriti, who takes over from Harmanpreet Kaur after being the vice-captain for almost ten years, inherits a side brimming with confidence after winning the Asia Cup and the Asian Games gold medal. Captaincy is hardly unfamiliar territory for Smriti - she has led Maharashtra in domestic cricket and guided Royal Challengers Bengaluru to two WPL titles. She has also captained India in 18 T20Is, winning 11 and losing six of them, with the first of those coming seven years ago against England in Guwahati when Harmanpreet was injured. Her elevation to captaincy comes when Smriti is at the peak of her batting powers. The left-handed opener has struck two hundreds and 15 fifties in T20Is over the last three years and has pushed her strike rate to a career-best 148.25 in 2026. While Harmanpreet still remains a key figure in the dressing room, her now being free from leadership duties means she could well be more destructive with the bat. The main selection puzzle to solve for India is the number three slot, left vacant by Jemimah Rodrigues, who is recovering from a right hamstring tear. G Kamalini batted there twice, but Anushka Sharma and Niki Prasad pushed their case after posting strong showings against Australia A. Prema Rawat could come in with Shreyanka Patil not included for the series. India will also have huge hopes from vice-captain Shafali Verma and left-arm spinner N Sree Charani to continue their sparkling run. Zimbabwe, led by Josephine Nkomo, have lost all of their T20Is this year and last won in the format against Namibia in September 2025. They will, however, draw belief from their maiden ODI win over the West Indies at home in September. Opener Kelis Ndhlovu, the only Zimbabwean with a T20I fifty this year, will be a key figure with the bat. The three T20Is will be followed by three ODIs in Vadodara from October 23 to 28. When: October 16, 2026, 7:00 PM Where: Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium, Raipur Where to watch: The match will be shown live on the Star Sports Network channels on TV and live-stream is available on the JioHotstar app and website. Squads India: Smriti Mandhana (captain), Shafali Verma (vc), Niki Prasad, Harmanpreet Kaur, Anushka Sharma, Richa Ghosh (wk), G Kamalini (wk), Deepti Sharma, Prema Rawat, Sree Charani, Nandni Sharma, Kranti Gaud, Arundhati Reddy, Jintimani Kalita, and Minnu Mani Squads Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Raza set on retirement after 2027 World Cup despite WTC
Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza has confirmed his decision to retire after the 2027 ODI World Cup, stating that his country's potential entry into the World Test Championship (WTC) for the 2027-30 cycle will not alter his plans. He believes WTC entry will significantly boost Zimbabwe's cricketing growth and also discussed the challenges of home advantage for the 2027 World Cup and highlighted promising young talents.
South Africa make one change to their squad, drop Tristan Stubbs ahead of second Test vs Australia
South Africa have recalled Matthew Breetzke to their Test squad for the second match against Australia in Gqeberha. He replaced Tristan Stubbs, who has been dropped following the hosts defeat in Durban. The change comes as head coach Shukri Conrad considers adjustments to the batting order ahead of Sundays encounter.
DDCA Name 16-member Squad For Senior Womens T20 Trophy
Guru Gobind Singh College Ground: The Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) on Thursday announced a 16-member squad for the first two matches of the Senior Womens T20 Trophy for the 2026-27 domestic season, with Soni Yadav appointed captain and Shweta Sehrawat named vice-captain and wicketkeeper. The squad was finalised by the Senior Womens Selection Committee during a meeting held at the DDCA on October 14. All selected players have been asked to report to the team manager on Thursday at Guru Gobind Singh College Ground. The Senior Womens T20 Trophy, organised by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), is scheduled to be held from October 26 to November 20. The 2026-27 edition will feature 37 teams divided into five groups under the Elite and Plate structure. The tournament will follow a round-robin and knockout format, providing teams an opportunity to compete through the league stage before progressing to the knockout rounds. Maharashtra will enter the competition as the defending champions after winning their maiden title in the previous edition. Railways remain the most successful team in the tournaments history, having won the competition 11 times. DDCA earlier invited applications from eligible players for open trials to select the Delhi Womens Under-15 Team for the domestic cricket season 202627 on Wednesday. Players must complete the online registration process by October 18, 2026. To be eligible, players must have been born between September 1, 2011, and August 31, 2014, in accordance with the age criteria for participation in the BCCI Girls Under-15 Tournament. The date of the trials and the list of shortlisted players will be announced later. Players must complete the online registration process by October 18, 2026. To be eligible, players must have been born between September 1, 2011, and August 31, 2014, in accordance with the age criteria for participation in the BCCI Girls Under-15 Tournament. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
After Durban disaster, South Africa ring the changes
South Africa has made significant changes to their squad for the second Test against Australia in Gqeberha, dropping Tristan Stubbs and calling up Matthew Breetzke. Ryan Rickelton will take over as wicketkeeper, likely leading to Kyle Verreynne's exclusion from the playing XI. These changes come after their heavy defeat in the first Test, with lead pacer Kagiso Rabada expected to return.
No Replacement For Jasprit Bumrah, But We've Talent Coming Along: Sanju Samson After Hyderabad Loss
India wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson acknowledged that no one can replace a bowler like Jasprit Bumrah as India face a bowling challenge in the ongoing white-ball series against the West Indies.
Big Blow For South Africa As Tristian Stubbs Ruled Out Of Second Test, Replacement Named
Matthew Breetzke on Thursday replaced Tristian Stubbs in the South Africa squad for the second Test against Australia beginning October 18 in Gqeberha.
Raipur the stage for the start of India's Mandhana era
Zimbabwe, who are yet to win a T20I this year, are playing their first ever bilateral series against India
New Delhi: Former India assistant coach Abhishek Nayar has compared Shai Hopes dominance against India to Matthew Haydens impact during Australias tours of the country in the 2000s. He praised Hope for combining control, power and adaptability while leading the West Indies challenge across formats on the ongoing tour. Hope has scored heavily against India despite facing high pace and quality spin. His ability to shift gears without relying solely on either power-hitting or touch play has made him a difficult batter to contain. The last time I can think of someone dominating India in India was when the Australian team came in the 2000s, Matthew Hayden used to take our bowlers to the cleaners, and Shai Hope is doing something very similar. His batting has been phenomenal, not only for the runs he has got, but also for how he has got them. You cant call him a power player or a touch player. He has found the perfect balance, where he can use the pace, but when required, he can generate force and hit those big sixes, Nayar told JioStar. Nayar pointed out that Hope has not been restricted by the nature of the bowling attack. He has handled Mayank Yadavs pace while also negotiating the variations of Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel, preventing India from building sustained pressure. He has been challenged with pace, with Mayank Yadav bowling upwards of 145, and he has handled it beautifully. He has played the guile of Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel very well. He has basically taken the Indian bowling to the cleaners in every format on this tour of India. To get a century at a strike rate of 200 tells you what Shai Hope can do, keeping wickets, captaining the side, and still coming out again and again to win games for his team, that is very rare to see, he added. Hopes influence has extended beyond his batting numbers. He has carried the additional responsibilities of captaincy and wicketkeeping while continuing to produce decisive performances for the West Indies. He has been challenged with pace, with Mayank Yadav bowling upwards of 145, and he has handled it beautifully. He has played the guile of Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel very well. He has basically taken the Indian bowling to the cleaners in every format on this tour of India. To get a century at a strike rate of 200 tells you what Shai Hope can do, keeping wickets, captaining the side, and still coming out again and again to win games for his team, that is very rare to see, he added. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Cameron Green's availability for second Test vs South Africa in doubt, head coach shares update
Australia remain uncertain about Cameron Greens availability for the second World Test Championship match against South Africa. Head coach Andrew McDonald indicated that the all-rounder must clear further fitness assessments before being considered for selection....
Keemo Paul Highlights Slower Balls Helped West Indies Beat India In Hyderabad
Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium: West Indies all-rounder Keemo Paul highlighted that slower balls helped the team keep a lid on the hard-hitting Indian batting attack during their win in the fourth T20I at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium here. Shai Hope's marvellous century helped the Windies put up a massive total of 247/3 batting first before Paul starred with a five-wicket haul to keep the Men in Blue to 223 in 19.3 overs as the visitors have levelled the five-match series 2-2 before the last match on Saturday. From the batters' perspective, the message we got after the first five overs was that it was a pretty good wicket. One or two balls were gripping, but other than that, it was pretty good, Paul told the media in the post-match press conference after the 24-run win in Hyderabad on Wednesday. As bowlers, the slower balls helped us here. On other wickets and at other grounds, we haven't been getting much grip, but it worked here, he added. The all-rounder highlighted that the team had meetings to discuss plans to counter the Indian batting attack. Every team has its own game plans. We sit together and discuss them, and we have some pretty long team meetings. I knew what I wanted to do, what my field settings would be and what my plan was. Obviously, I won't share my plan, but I think I executed it pretty well, he said. He highlighted that the bowlers executed their plans pretty well as there was no dew in the fourth game, just as was the case in the third match, which India won by 14 runs in Indore. Some pretty big scores have been chased in this series, but I think a key factor is that there was no dew (in Hyderabad). When there is dew, it becomes quite hard for teams bowling second. In the last game and this one, there was no dew, and I think we executed our plans perfectly, he highlighted. Paul has become the first West Indies bowler to register multiple five-wicket hauls in T20Is. His 5-41 in Hyderabad against India was the second fifer he took in the format after a 5-15 he picked during a T20I against Bangladesh in Mirpur in 2018. Some pretty big scores have been chased in this series, but I think a key factor is that there was no dew (in Hyderabad). When there is dew, it becomes quite hard for teams bowling second. In the last game and this one, there was no dew, and I think we executed our plans perfectly, he highlighted. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Will Australia change their batting order after Durban win?
Australia's cricket coach Andrew McDonald indicated that selectors remain open to further changes in the batting order for the second Test against South Africa, depending on the pitch conditions in Gqeberha. This follows a successful, albeit surprising, lineup in the first Test where Nic Maddinson opened and Matt Renshaw excelled at number five. While former captain Steve Waugh urged consistency, McDonald emphasised the panel's flexible approach. The team is also monitoring the fitness of Cameron Green and Josh Inglis.
Breetzke Replaces Stubbs As Proteas Name Sqaud For Second Australia Test
Cricket South Africa: South Africa have named a 17-player squad for the second Test against Australia, with Matthew Breetzke replacing Tristan Stubbs as the only change from the opening Test, while Ryan Rickelton takes over the wicketkeeping duties. Stubbs managed scores of 32 and one in the opening Test. Breetzke has played two tests for South Africa, against Bangladesh in October 2024 and Zimbabwe in July 2025, scoring 14 runs across the two matches. However, the right-handed batter has been in excellent form in limited-overs cricket, having scored a century in the first ODI against Australia in Durban. South Africa's head coach, Shukri Conrad, said Breetzkes recent form and temperament had worked in his favour. Matt has been part of the squad before. The fact that his ODI form is as hot as it is gave him an inside lane, and more importantly, its the attitude and the character Matt brings and has, Conrad said in a video released by the Proteas on X. With Ricks taking the gloves, there are decisions to be made over whether he does move down the order or whether he can continue to open the batting, which he has done before, Conrad said. Cricket South Africa also said Tony de Zorzi was not considered for selection as the left-hander continues his recovery from a left hamstring injury. Meanwhile, fast bowler Kagiso Rabada is expected to return after missing the Durban match while recovering from a hamstring niggle. South Africa have retained the other members of their 17-player squad, with Anrich Nortje, Marco Jansen, Wiaan Mulder, Gerald Coetzee, Dane Paterson and Corbin Bosch also available among the pace options. The second test will be played from Sunday, where South Africa will aim to respond strongly after their opening-match setback. Squad: The second test will be played from Sunday, where South Africa will aim to respond strongly after their opening-match setback. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
If batters don't take responsibility, this Indian side will not succeed: Gavaskar
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 15 (IANS) Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has called on Indias batting unit to take greater responsibility ahead of the T20I series decider against West Indies in Bengaluru, identifying the teams struggles while chasing as a major concern after their latest defeat. With the visitors keeping the contest alive through an impressive all-round display, Gavaskar believes India must translate their reputation as back-to-back T20 World Cup champions into a more commanding batting performance, particularly under dew-assisted conditions, if they are to secure the series. Gavaskars criticism centred on Indias inability to build on a promising start from Sanju Samson, whose contribution offered the hosts an opportunity to establish control during the chase. However, the subsequent batters failed to sustain the momentum, allowing the West Indies to seize control of the contest. The first thing this Indian side needs to improve is how they chase. On a pitch like this, with the dew coming in, you have to show the kind of dominance with the bat that a back-to-back T20 World Cup winning team should, but that was missing completely in this game. Sanju gave India a great start, but the rest of the batters didnt capitalise at all. Abhishek Sharma played a poor knock, which is not acceptable by his standards. Ishan Kishan fell right into Keemo Pauls trap, and Shreyas Iyer has not got going since his hundred, Gavaskar told JioStar. Gavaskar was particularly critical of the middle orders inability to convert a solid platform into a competitive chase. Abhishek Sharmas dismissal, Ishan Kishans failure against Keemo Paul and Shreyas Iyers continued search for form following his century were among the concerns he identified. In his view, India cannot afford repeated lapses in execution when the series is at stake. The batting unit needs to show more responsibility. Yes, I know the bowling has been poor, but these bowlers are not experienced. They are new to international cricket, and they will need to get hit for boundaries, otherwise they will not learn. For India to win the decider, they should bat first, put up 240 to 250 and then keep West Indies to a low total. If the batters dont take responsibility, this Indian side will not succeed, he added. The series decider, scheduled to take place at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Saturday, will therefore test more than Indias ability to respond to a setback.
'No Replacement For Bumrah, But We've Talent Coming Along': Samson After Hyderabad Loss
Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium: India wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson acknowledged that no one can replace a bowler like Jasprit Bumrah as India face a bowling challenge in the ongoing white-ball series against the West Indies. Bumrah was rested for the T20I series against the West Indies after participating in the Asian Games, as the BCCI looks to manage the workload of its talisman fast bowler. In his absence, India's bowling has been tested on flat pitches in the ongoing series against the Windies. Speaking in the post-match press conference, Samson admitted that there remains no replacement for a player like Bumrah, but India are also having talent elsewhere. There is no replacement for Jasprit Bumrah. He is a once-in-a-generation kind of bowler, and we are very lucky to have him. But we have had some really good talent coming along also; Arshdeep (Singh) has been doing a great job, and also the way Prince Yadav has bowled in the last few games is very impressive. I feel we have some really good talent. The more we play them, the more we back them, the better they will become, Samson said after the 24-run loss in the fourth T20I at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium. Arshdeep took a blow to his left arm while batting late in the second innings. Samson spoke on the speedster's blow, stating that he hoped the bowler recovers well in time for the fifth T20I on Saturday. Arshdeep is putting ice on his shoulder, Samson said. Hopefully he recovers soon. Samson lauded Shai Hope for the innings the Windies captain has been producing in India. Hope has hit two centuries and a fifty in the four T20I games, while he also smashed two centuries in the preceding ODI series. He (Hope) is playing really well; we need to respect what he has been doing. He has been playing some really good cricketing shots, not taking that much risk, so he is respecting the bowlers as well. We need to give the credit to him for the way he is batting, and we are definitely switched on how to respond to him every game, he added. The wicketkeeper batter also backed India's top order as Abhishek Sharma had a rare struggle in the fourth match, where he made 29 from 24 balls. Ishan (Kishan) and Abhishek Sharma are the world's best top two batters; I think you cannot ask anything more out of them, one game is okay. (Abhishek) just scored a really good 70 (69) in the last game and Ishan is consistently scoring a lot of runs, so one game is totally fine, Samson said, backing his teammates. He stated that the turning point of the match was when Tilak Varma got out in the 17th over, calling that India were very much in the game when Varma and Nitish Reddy were together. The turning point of the match was when Tilak got out. We were cruising, scoring those 10-12 runs per over really nicely. The wicketkeeper batter also backed India's top order as Abhishek Sharma had a rare struggle in the fourth match, where he made 29 from 24 balls. Ishan (Kishan) and Abhishek Sharma are the world's best top two batters; I think you cannot ask anything more out of them, one game is okay. (Abhishek) just scored a really good 70 (69) in the last game and Ishan is consistently scoring a lot of runs, so one game is totally fine, Samson said, backing his teammates. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Difficult For Bowlers To Build Pressure, Hes A Hard Player To Stop': Pujara On Hope
New Delhi: Former India batter Cheteshwar Pujara has credited Shai Hopes composure and shot selection for the West Indies batting success against India in the ongoing white-ball series, while highlighting Keemo Pauls decisive bowling spell as a turning point in the visitors latest victory. Assessing the West Indies performance after their win over India, Pujara pointed to the visitors calculated aggression, their ability to exploit errors in the Indian bowling attack and the pressure they created across both innings, warning that the hosts would need greater discipline and variation in Bengaluru. He also identified Hopes approach at the crease as a major reason behind his remarkable consistency throughout the series. Shai Hope has been a problem for India in this white-ball series against the West Indies and what stands out is that he does not rely on blind slogging. He backs his natural game and picks his gaps. That is why he scores so quickly without taking too many risks. The way he times the ball, plays normal cricketing shots, and knows his areas well is what makes him so effective. Hes also a good player of spin because this pitch was a little challenging for the batters to dominate the spinners. But he had a lot of clarity. When a batter has that kind of control, it becomes very difficult for the bowlers to build pressure. Once hes set, hes a hard player to stop. And if you look at his strike rate, it has been phenomenal throughout the series. His four hundreds are now the most by any batter on a tour of India and he has been the standout performer in this T20I series and the numbers prove it, Pujara told JioStar. While Hopes contributions have stood out with the bat, Pujara reserved special praise for Keemo Paul, whose intervention with the ball proved instrumental in the West Indies success. Paul made an immediate impact by dismissing Sanju Samson with his first delivery before removing Ishan Kishan in the same over. He returned in the 19th over to deliver another decisive blow with a three-wicket over. This win was all about Keemo Paul. He struck gold with his very first delivery of the game, getting the big wicket of Sanju Samson, who got caught at deep backward square-leg. Paul then got rid of Ishan Kishan in the same over and then came back to seal it in the 19th over with a three-wicket over. With their backs against the wall and both the last two games being must-wins, West Indies have not only avoided a series defeat for now but also sent the hosts a strong message that they are here to win, he added. Pujara also pointed to the collective effort of the West Indies batters, particularly Hope, Shimron Hetmyer and Sherfane Rutherford, in exposing weaknesses in Indias bowling plans. According to the former India batter, the visitors attacking intent was complemented by their sharp reading of lengths, leaving the Indian bowlers with little room for error. The way the West Indian batters went after us in the powerplay, and even after the powerplay, the Indian bowlers didnt hit the right lengths. They didnt show a lot of variations in their bowling. But sometimes you also need to appreciate the kind of batting the West Indies players produced, the kind of shots they played, especially Shai Hope, Shimron Hetmyer and Sherfane Rutherford. All three of them were key players in their sides victory. They were exceptional. Pujara also pointed to the collective effort of the West Indies batters, particularly Hope, Shimron Hetmyer and Sherfane Rutherford, in exposing weaknesses in Indias bowling plans. According to the former India batter, the visitors attacking intent was complemented by their sharp reading of lengths, leaving the Indian bowlers with little room for error. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Sanju Samson provides medical update on Arshdeep Singh; will he play fifth T20I in Bengaluru?
India pacer Arshdeep Singh suffered a painful shoulder injury during the fourth T20I against West Indies in Hyderabad. The incident happened in the final over of the match when pacer Shamar Joseph struck Arshdeep with...
Former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh recently opened up about the conversation he had with Sourav Ganguly before being appointed Delhi Capitals' assistant coach and batting coach ahead of IPL 2027.
Stubbs dropped, Rickelton to keep wickets in Gqueberha Test
Matthew Breetzke has been brought into South Africa's 17-man squad
As has happened many times in the ongoing India vs West Indies T20I series, Wednesday once again witnessed a high-scoring affair
Smriti Mandhana era begins: India's T20 woes in focus
Smriti Mandhana will lead the Indian women's T20 team in a three-match series against Zimbabwe in Raipur, marking the start of a new era. The series is crucial for India to address their T20 weaknesses in batting, fielding, and bowling, especially after recent World Cup exits, while Zimbabwe looks to build on their recent success.
Rishad Hossain Returns As Hobart Hurricanes Strengthen Spin Attack For BBL 16
High Performance Salliann Beams: The Hobart Hurricanes have secured the return of Bangladesh leg-spinner Rishad Hossain for Big Bash League 16, retaining one of their most effective bowlers from last season as they prepare to pair him with Australian international Adam Zampa. Hossains re-signing gives the defending squad a potent spin combination heading into the new campaign, with the 24-year-old having made an immediate impression during his first taste of the Big Bash League. In 12 appearances last season, the Bangladesh international claimed 15 wickets at an average of 20.86 and an economy rate of 7.82. His best performance yielded figures of 3-26, and his consistency across the campaign earned him the Hurricanes BBL Player of the Year award. For Hobart, bringing Hossain back was a priority despite the addition of Zampa, whose extensive experience in international white-ball cricket adds another dimension to the sides bowling resources. Hurricanes General Manager High Performance Salliann Beams said the spinners enthusiasm for returning to the franchise helped facilitate the agreement. Rishad made it really clear to us that he loved his time in Hobart last season and wanted to come back, and that certainly meant a lot to us. Our list had taken a slightly different shape with the addition of Adam Zampa, but when a player of Rishads quality is so determined to return to the Hurricanes, we wanted to explore every opportunity to make that happen. He was outstanding for us last season. To come into the Big Bash for the first time, play every game and finish as our leading wicket-taker showed the quality he has and how quickly he adapted to Australian conditions. We now have two high-quality leg-spinners who bring different strengths and give us some really exciting options depending on conditions and match-ups. Adam has been one of the outstanding white-ball bowlers in world cricket for a long period of time, while we saw last summer just how dangerous Rishad can be through the middle overs. To have both of them as part of our squad gives us enormous flexibility and adds another dimension to our bowling attack, Beams said in a statement. Hossains continued presence also brings an end to a longer wait for the Hurricanes. The franchise selected him during the BBL|14 draft, but his commitments to the Bangladesh Premier League meant he could not join the squad that season. His Big Bash debut finally arrived the following summer, when he quickly established himself as a key wicket-taking option. His ability to vary his pace, extract turn and challenge batters through the middle overs made him an important part of Hobarts bowling plans. The return also offers Hossain an opportunity to build on a breakthrough season in Australian conditions while continuing to develop his reputation on the international T20 circuit. His Big Bash debut finally arrived the following summer, when he quickly established himself as a key wicket-taking option. His ability to vary his pace, extract turn and challenge batters through the middle overs made him an important part of Hobarts bowling plans. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
No dew, slower balls! How Windies stunned India
Pacer Keemo Paul discusses how West Indies bowlers effectively used slow balls on a gripping pitch and the absence of dew to secure a 24-run victory over India in the fourth T20I on Wednesday. He also highlighted captain Shai Hope's crucial century and strong team planning as key factors in their success.
Sydney Thunder Bolster Their Squad With Trent Boults Addition BBL 16
European T20 Premier League: New Zealand fast-bowling star Trent Boult will return to the Big Bash League after signing a one-year contract with Sydney Thunder, adding international pedigree and a potent left-arm option to the franchises bowling attack ahead of the 16th edition of the tournament. The 37-year-old will be available throughout the season, including the finals, and is expected to partner compatriot Lockie Ferguson as Thunder look to strengthen a bowling unit that struggled to make an impact last season. Boult previously featured in the BBL for Melbourne Stars during the 2022-23 campaign, appearing in eight matches. His arrival at Thunder marks a return to Australian franchise cricket, with the experienced pacer eager to make an impact both on the field and among supporters. Im really excited to be playing in the Big Bash again and joining Lockie (Ferguson) at Thunder. The way he gets involved is what Im hoping to mirror and make a mark like he has, not just with the team but the fans as well. Cricket has given me so much over the years and Im still at the stage where I love going out there, contributing, taking wickets and trying to be aggressive in the Powerplay, Boult said in a statement. The signing is among the first major steps in Sydney Thunders efforts to rebuild following a disappointing previous season. Former England captain Andrew Flintoff, appointed head coach after the club parted ways with Trevor Bayliss in February, will lead the sides push to return to the finals. Flintoff believes the combination of Boult and Ferguson could give Thunder the new-ball threat they have lacked, with the contrasting angles of the left-arm and right-arm quicks expected to offer greater variety. Trent (Boult) has an amazing reputation for being a great bloke, a team player and a world-class performer. Having a couple Kiwis in the team who have played a lot of cricket together over the years brings a level of familiarity and I think they complement each other really well as a right-arm and left-arm pairing. One of the things we havent been able to do in recent times is take wickets with the new ball, so hopefully these two can remedy that, Flintoff said in a statement. Although Flintoff had already brought his international career to a close before Boult made his New Zealand debut in 2009, the former England all-rounder was a figure the Kiwi quick admired growing up. Boult is now looking forward to working under Flintoff as Thunder pursue a title that has eluded both men during their distinguished careers. Every cricketer idolised Freddie (Flintoff) as a kid (and) I was one of them. Im sure he wants to bring the group together, create a great culture, and work towards something special. Were trying to achieve the top prize, and it will take small steps, but Im looking forward to hopefully achieving something special with this club, Boult said. Boults credentials make him a significant addition to the squad. He has claimed 601 wickets across Tests, one-day internationals and T20 internationals, placing him fourth among New Zealands leading wicket-takers in each of the three formats. Since stepping away from international cricket after the 2024 T20 World Cup, Boult has remained a regular presence in franchise competitions around the world. His 2026 schedule has included appearances in South Africas SA20, the Indian Premier League, Major League Cricket in the United States, Englands The Hundred and the European T20 Premier League. Boults credentials make him a significant addition to the squad. He has claimed 601 wickets across Tests, one-day internationals and T20 internationals, placing him fourth among New Zealands leading wicket-takers in each of the three formats. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
'All Of Us Are Looking To Dominate': How A Structured Pathway Is Powering India A Women's Rise
Emerging T20 Asia Cup: There was no live streaming, so the people at the IS Bindra Stadium will have to do the remembering for everyone else. On September 25, in the deciding game of the three-match one-day series, Australia A made a daunting 362/9. Two days ago, Australia A hunted down 339 to square the series against India A. Coming to the chase, when Tanisha Singh fell for 60 in the 20th over, India A were 119/4 and needed another 244 to get an improbable win and clinch the series. In the Indian dressing room, nobody sat in a corner doing the arithmetic of despair, according to Tejal Hasabnis. The pitch was good, the batters were in form, and the conversation ran only one way. Basically, it started with the first ODI, where we chased well on an okayish wicket. We knew that we would get hit for runs, but the wicket was good, the batters were in form and hum bhi runs bana lenge (we will score runs too), Tejal told IANS. They did, as Anushka Sharma (58) and Niki Prasad put on 91 runs for the fifth wicket. Off-spin bowling all-rounder Minnu Mani walked in and made an unbeaten 88 off 56 balls. She added 106 runs with Niki, who took four wickets earlier in the day before making 76. Minnu later had an unbroken 47-run stand with Jintimani Kalita as India A got home with ten balls to spare. Tejal has played alongside Minnu for seven or eight years and was left in awe of how she finished the chase. The way she finished, it was too classy and too good to watch. Rajib Datta, who has worked with this group for years, believes the ability was always there. She only lacked belief. That knock she played in Mohali showed that she has that capability, Rajib told IANS. Tejal remembers that the batters agreed to keep the required rate around seven and never let it stretch to nine or ten. That strategy came from the preceding T20 series, which Australia A swept 3-0 after quiet overs let the asking rate drift away from India As reach. Everyone knew we made a mistake then, and we had not to repeat it in that game, she said. Only one side has chased more in women's List A cricket: Bengal, who hunted down 390 against Haryana in December 2024. No one would have ever thought that 363 runs would have been chased by them, said Hemlata Kala, a former India player and a national selector from 2015 to 2020. What India A has done woh kaarnama hai sikandaron ka (a feat achieved by the champions). The way they played against Australia in one-days, I have never seen a team play like that against them, she added. Tejal stated the shift in approach is deliberate and runs from India A to Under-19 teams. After winning the 2025 World Cup, you now get the belief that the Indian women's cricket team is gonna dominate. All of us are looking to dominate due to a shift in approach and intent. Theres a quote I have, You bleed more in practice, so you bleed less in war. That kind of process, intent shift and attitude to dominate is giving us the results on and off the field. The improbable chase had its roots in a sentence spoken in 2023. After India won the inaugural Under-19 Women's World Cup in South Africa, VVS Laxman, head of the BCCI's Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru, pulled two coaches for a new project. One was Datta, then a bowling coach and lead faculty at the CoE. The other was Apurva Desai, the current India A womens head coach. Whatever you are doing with the boys, I want it replicated for the women's, Datta recalls Laxman telling them. By then, A tours, central monitoring and an Under-19 pathway had given India's men a bench deep enough to win the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series in Australia in 2020/21 without half of their first-choice players. But when it came to womens, there was nothing notable. In August 2025, India A beat an Australia A side stocked with established names 2-1 in a one-day series in Brisbane, just before the Harmanpreet Kaur-led side went on to win the Women's ODI World Cup for the first time at home. This year, even as Harmanpreet & Co made an early exit from the T20 World Cup, India A brought some cheer by winning the 50-over series by the same margin in England, before doing it again against Australia A at home. In February they also won the Emerging Womens T20 Asia Cup title in Bangkok. Since August 2024, India A have played 32 matches across three formats, and their assignments have gone from one a year to three in 2026 (with England A set to tour in December). Around 40 players have been involved in India A setup so far. Days after the chase of 363, India A beat Australia A by 281 runs in a four-day game, their first red-ball win in three attempts. Several India A players will be a part of the main team taking on Zimbabwe in a white-ball series starting in Raipur on Friday. Niki, who captained India to 2025 U19 World Cup win in Malaysia, and Jintimani Kalita are in the senior T20I squad for the first time, with Anushka Sharma, Minnu and Prema Rawat recalled, while Tejal, Yastika Bhatia, Vaishnavi Sharma and Sayali Satghare are in the ODI squad. Harmanpreet gave up the all-format captaincy, with Smriti Mandhana set to start her full-time tenure against Zimbabwe. Datta expects the senior side to move towards a transition within a year, which makes it a fair time to look at how India A learned to play the way it does. VVS is more of a holistic person. He doesn't leave any small loophole as hes creating a system. Obviously, you will have to give kudos to the BCCI and Jay Shah because had it not been for them, women's cricket wouldn't have reached this stage. When we went to South Africa in 2023, I said, if this Under-19 team can win, it will change women's cricket in India and it started from there only, said Datta. When the Neetu David-led selection committee took charge, there was no dedicated India A women's side and no structured Under-19 pathway. Aarti Vaidya, a former India cricketer and national selector, recalled how the selectors lobbied for an A programme that would give India a pool of 30-40 players. It's not that our girls were not talented, but then there was no direction. You can't be bringing a player from home and straight away put her into international cricket. There is still a lot of work to be done, but we can see the fruits now. The Under-19 title win in 2023 was meticulously planned: selectors tracked players from 2021 and made a pool of 25 players, while coaches spent ten months building extensive files on every opponent. After coming back to Bengaluru, Datta asked Desai a question. Doing it one time is a fluke. Can we do it a second time? They prepared for another 18 months, and India retained the title in 2025. That, Datta says, is what convinced the BCCI the method worked. Even as Datta moved on from the CoE last year, Desai has stuck with the women's A team. The first tour was humbling - in August 2024, India A won one match out of seven across three formats in Australia. The post-mortem rounded up the usual suspects: fitness, fielding, running between the wickets. But the coaches refused to wait until those were fixed. We have to beat them with skills of batting and bowling and play a brand of cricket which will actually intimidate them. So, that's what we started instilling into them and Apurva has done a fantastic job over the last two years, he says. Australia A travelled with 15 support staff members, backed by a women's wing of around 20 people who know every player from Under-19 level. As per Datta, India took inspiration from the template, with some Indian twist added. Curiosity has since flowed the other way. Datta says Lisa Keightley and Kyle Hogg, then with Australia and England U19 teams, have asked what India are doing to unearth solid players. There was a time when we used to try and follow England and Australia and now the world is trying to follow us. On fitness, a conscious call was made to start with teenagers rather than players already 25 or 26. I can get the seniors to get fitter. But they will never be able to match the Australians. So, who will be able to match the Australians? The younger crowd who are 19, 20 and 21. Every girl who plays state cricket in India, starting from the Under-15 level, is logged on an Athlete Management System (AMS) that records her daily training, workload and sleep. It's exactly like what we did with the men. There is no differentiation, Datta says. Aarti's panel scouted domestic matches for roles, not runs and wickets. Let's not look at the scores let's look at the specific talent which we want. G Kamalini, spotted at Under-15 level, went through India Under-19 and the Women's Premier League (WPL) before coming into the Indian team. You have already 25 girls who are ready to play for India, says Aarti. Datta reckons the IPL took a decade to pay dividends for the mens team, while the WPL has just done that for the womens team in four seasons. He also credits the selection panels under Neetu and Amita Sharma for being in sync with the CoE in terms of rotating and selecting players for India A tours. These are the last five years where I am seeing coaches and selectors working in unison towards some goals. It's a lovely time for women's cricket and in the next two years, we will be ruling the world. That's what I want to see. Fielding and fitness were long India's excuses in not being able to defeat Australia often and preparation for that began two months ago at high intensity. Now, with that intent, everyone is putting hard yards off the field. Even on the last day of the last match, if I have to take a diving catch to win the match, I had an idea that it should be like this, said Tejal. The planning for fielding has changed too. After watching Australia, the coaches began training position-specific movements. Datta admits lapses remain, but believes they are ending, as training specialist fielders for specialist positions is the next project in India A setup. You will see these stopping now. We will take brilliant catches and you will see the results in a years time, as it has already started. Tejal goes back to February, when India A lost their opening Emerging T20 Asia Cup match to UAE. Desai came into the dressing room and said, It's okay, it's one bad day, now what next? India A won their next games and the title too. A system has been made where the player feels safe to execute plans, she says. To her, India A is the important in-between step between domestic cricket and international cricket, and those who move up carry, that sense of confidence. That we were in this situation before, we did well. Former India player Karuna Jain, who was in the India A coaching staff for 2025 ODI World Cup warm-up games, says the players trust Desai and learn something new every time he speaks, though his ideas have only started showing results on the field in the last 12-18 months. Karuna watched that patience work on Shafali Verma, who was initially left out of the ODI World Cup squad. She was a little disappointed in not making it to the team. But again, we spoke to her and she performed too, she says. Shafali was called up later in the tournament due to Pratika Rawals ankle injury and delivered an all-round performance as India won the final. She got the opportunity at the right time and grabbed it with two hands, added Karuna. Another example she gives is of leg-spin bowling all-rounder Prema Rawat, who went from India A squad in England to the T20 World Cup as a replacement for injured Shreyanka and did well in the Asia Cup-winning campaign. When Karuna played for India, three or four series a year were held, and a single failure could mean a wait for a year or two. In our time, if we had more series, then even we would have been aggressive, she says. Now, with a system in place, a dropped player knows another chance is coming. Currently, 120 women players are divided into four 25-member squads: main contracted, targeted, Under-23, and Under-19. Where the women's A team goes beyond the men's setup is developing a pool of female coaches. The Neetu-led committee insisted on a female head coach for the Under-19 World Cup, and Nooshin Al Khadeer took charge for two title wins. Nooshin, Vanitha and Sunetra Paranjpe hold CoE coaching contracts and building female coaches is a part of the plan via level 1, 2 and 3 exams and giving them opportunities. Around Datta and Desai, coaches have been rotated on India A tours to gain experience: bowling coach P Krishna Kumar and fielding coach Milap Mewada, as well as Nooshin, Karuna, Vanitha, Sunetra, Rumeli Dhar, Shrabani Debnath and Priyankka Acharya. When Desai was called to the coaching staff for India A mens red-ball games against Australia A in Puducherry, Sunetra stepped in for him in Mohali. Not everything has crossed over. Other boards are often reluctant to host India A women tours for financial reasons, and Aarti said India has offered to host them instead. Right now, T20 is the format that hasn't yielded desired results. That T20 format is something we are yet to crack. That's a puzzle we are trying to solve, Datta says. Against Australia A and England A, India A have won one of 12 T20s since 2024, though three of those defeats came by seven runs or fewer. Tejal still thinks about one T20 game against Australia A that got away, when her side needed 60 off 60 balls with nine wickets in hand and lost the plot. Maybe I could have finished the game, she says. Within a year, Datta expects separate womens squads for different formats, just like how it is for the mens. Though Datta is no longer in CoE, an emotional feeling still runs high in him over seeing India A women succeed. You can just hear my voice and understand the inner feeling. It's unbelievably gratifying and satisfying. That inner feeling of satisfaction is something that a coach keeps with himself or herself. Datta spent about 25 days with the India A group before the series against Australia A at the CoE and told Laxman that the next crop was ready to step up to the higher level. As per Datta, few more players can step up to India A - G Trisha, Player of the Series at the 2025 Under-19 World Cup, Soumya Tiwari, Triveni Vasistha, Henrietta Pereira, Nandana Sridharan, Happy Kumari and Shuchi Upadhayay. Our system is so good and so robust. Even if nothing is done, we will get 14 good players. Thats there 100 percent - but the question is, can we bring these 14 good players into one common vision? That was always our challenge. Now a system has been put in place. Just following and being within this, you would replicate and keep on going for five years time until and unless someone beats us into this process, which is again going to happen. So, once we have found this Midas touch, can we elongate this for 7-8 years? For that, whoever comes in women's cricket will have to come with a belief that this is a system that has worked. By bringing in a few India A players for the upcoming Zimbabwe series, the selectors have made a start. Whether the new call-ups get a proper run to establish themselves is the real test. Back in domestic cricket, the queue for India A spots is set to increase and Tejal knows the only way is upwards. So, once we have found this Midas touch, can we elongate this for 7-8 years? For that, whoever comes in women's cricket will have to come with a belief that this is a system that has worked. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Lacked In Every Aspect: Ex-India Star Rips Into Shreyas Iyer And Co After 247-Run Hammering
During the innings break, Kaif did not hold back in his criticism of Shreyas Iyer and the Indian bowlers, questioning their execution after several bowlers endured a difficult outing.
India Stars, Who Played Close To 100 Tests, Reject BCCI's Offer To Be Selector: Report
From the time Ajit Agarkar's tenure as BCCI chief selector ended earlier this month, the search has been on to find his replacement
Why Shreyas Called Back Arshdeep in Final Over
India captain Shreyas Iyer called back Arshdeep Singh after the pacer was struck on the shoulder by a Shamar Joseph bouncer in the final over of the fourth T20I against the West Indies in Hyderabad on Wednesday.
Sanju Samson Shares Arshdeep Injury Update
Sanju Samson has expressed hope that left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh will recover from a bouncer injury in time for India's crucial T20I series decider against the West Indies in Bengaluru.
Former India captains Sourav Ganguly and Ajinkya Rahane joined a distinguished gathering of cricketing legends and members of royalty in London for a unique celebration that brought together the spirit of cricket and the cause of environmental sustainability
'Steel And Velvet': What Smriti Mandhana Brings As India's New All-format Captain
What Smriti Mandhana: The first thing Biju George noticed about a teenaged Smriti Mandhana at the BCCI's first-ever Under-19 girls' camp, held in Guntur in 2013/14, was the cover drive. Tall and bespectacled, Smriti leaned into the ball so sweetly while playing the cover drive that George nicknamed her 'Lady Dada'. The second thing he noticed was her gutsy nature when she came to him to solve an issue. She came up to me and said, 'Listen, I find it difficult. I am like a compulsory hooker. So people get me out with that and I want to work on that,' George said to IANS. He and a colleague, Raghu, took her to the indoor nets at the old NCA and threw balls at her for hours till the issue was solved. That habit and maturity runs through almost every account of Smriti Mandhana, India's new all-format captain. Harmanpreet Kaur stepped down as Indias skipper on October 6, though she will carry on as a player. She leaves after leading India to its first-ever ODI World Cup at home in 2025, a second Asian Games gold medal and twin Asia Cup triumphs. But under Harmanpreets captaincy, India was also a T20I side that has gone out in the group stage of the last two World Cups, though she was hamstrung by the absence of key all-rounders this year. Smriti, 30, has led India in 18 T20Is and four ODIs as a stand-in captain and taken Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to WPL titles in 2024 and 2026, apart. This year she passed Mithali Raj as the leading run-scorer in women's international cricket, made a record 18th international hundred to surpass Meg Lanning, and moved past Suzie Bates to be at the top of the T20I run charts. In March, Mattel made her a one-of-a-kind Barbie doll, the first cricketer to be bestowed with that honour. Aarti Vaidya, the former India player and national selector, feels a measured and assured Smriti is very prepared to begin life as the sides captain. She has played a lot of WBBL and franchise matches in England too. So she has that international cricket experience of handling and being with different teams and that helps. Similar views are echoed by Malolan Rangarajan, RCB's women's head coach. It's very well deserving for someone who has worked so hard on her game and also contributed so much to Indian cricket. She has been Indias vice-captain for such a long time and so, it's a well-deserved elevation and adds another feather in Smriti's cap, he said to IANS. It also helped that when Smriti captained RCB, it had former international captains like Heather Knight and Sophie Devine. While picking her, it wasn't like we were waiting to see how good a captain she was. She had captained before she joined RCB also. So she was very well experienced back then itself. But having worked with her over a period of 4-5 years now, you get to know the person also. She is a leader of a team and not a leader of select individuals. She always thinks about what's best for the team, how can this team, and anything with it, go forward. I'm pretty sure regardless of her being the Indian captain or not, even as the vice-captain, she was always thinking about how well she can contribute and take Indian cricket forward, added Rangarajan. Asked about instances in WPL where Smriti the skipper shined, Rangarajan is wary of reducing it to a single moment. She's got an extraordinary pulse of the game. She knows what works, and what doesn't work. With her, it was always about knowing what's best for the team and what's best for a situation. So I can't point out a single situation in which Smriti was amazing. She's a very, very, very experienced player. She knows a lot of Indian and international girls. Even tactically, she's very, very adept - knows exactly what to do when and just overall, her experience has been amazing, he said. Tejal Hasabnis, who will play under Smriti in the ODI series against Zimbabwe in Vadodara, knows Smriti well from the Maharashtra days. Getting to debut internationally under Smritis captaincy during the 50-over clash against New Zealand in Ahmedabad in 2024 will always be a fun fact worth cherishing for the right-handed batter. Growing up, I have played a lot of cricket under her. She used to lead Maharashtra senior side as well. So, yes, it will be very familiar and I am just looking forward to it. I am so excited because this is kind of a new chapter starting for the Indian women's cricket team. So, I am very excited to see how she approaches it and what will come next. She also gives a glowing assessment of what playing under Smritis captaincy is like. Basically, Smriti is someone who is a very calm and thoughtful person off the field and is the same on the field. I feel she is someone who prepares and then she just comes there and executes her plan with a calm head. Even in domestic games, she was pretty clear on what she wanted from the team. She gave us role clarity - like what she expects from the players and when just out there, she supports us to execute our plans. Former India player Soniya Dabir was Smritis roommate when she first broke into Maharashtra's senior side as a shy teenager. Made the sides captain at 16, Smriti leaned on the senior players rather than trying to impress them. She used to listen to everyone for help in terms of formulating strategies. She could make it out whose advice was to be taken and used to think about the situations differently. That thought process was very clear from a young age. With the bat, we always believed that as long as she was there, we could still go ahead and win the match. Smriti has spent her India career under two very different leaders: the measured Mithali Raj and Harmanpreet, whose fire a team still learning to believe in itself needed a lot. Luckily for her, she got to play under Mithali and Harman for a long time. So she is quite experienced for that job and on and off, when Harman was not available, she was also taking her place, says Aarti. George puts this captaincy change in a well-thought phrase. Harman was steel-steel. Now Smriti will be steel and velvet. Harman can be aloof at certain times. Smriti is never aloof. Smriti is always available and I know the girls will love working with Smriti. He calls it a new era for India, where the captaincy is more welcoming. In Georges view, Smriti is that one girl who will always listen and one of the few who would reach out and ask. Smriti and Jemi (Jemimah Rodrigues) are a few people who have never changed, he said. Aarti feels the change at the helm has arrived at the right time. I just thought time had come for her to take charge now. I guess she would handle it properly because she has that experience with her. George, though, will watch out for one adjustment. Challenges will be working with the same support staff because they were so much used to Harman's style of captaincy. A home Champions Trophy in February 2027, then the T20 World Cup and the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028, and ODI World Cup title defence in 2029 a great showing in all of them will be on Smritis radar. Results will decide how her captaincy will be judged, especially with the social media era quick in asking questions and hurling criticisms. That level of scrutiny, long reserved for India's men's captains, is a measure of how far the women's game has come. Harmanpreet built a side that learned to fight, and then to win and constantly challenge big teams. Smritis task will be to take it up a notch and also crack the code of success in the shortest format while being the ever-dependable batter. She's been playing the sport at the highest level for a while now. She knows what it takes to play at that level. Not only play, but to also be a superstar at that level. So, it's come at a very good time for her and the Indian cricket team. Knowing Smriti, the only thing she'll be thinking about is how she can take this team to the next level. They've obviously won the World Cup in the 50 overs and knowing her, she'll be thoroughly and fully focused on how she can make this team even better, added Rangarajan. It also helps that Smriti is easily approachable and shows empathy towards newbies and youngsters to give them a sense of belonging. With Smriti, what you see is what you get. Regardless of her seniority or experience, she conducts herself in a very, very calm manner. She's very approachable, and I'm pretty sure if you speak to more girls, they'll echo the same sentiment of how good Smriti is around the group and how she is. RCB also has found a couple of players who came in as uncapped players and have now gone on to play for the country, and that's a testament to how Smriti has led the team, said Rangarajan. He also feels Smriti can easily compartmentalise her batting and captaincy duties. Again, Smriti is experienced enough to detach the two. When she captains, she captains and when she bats, she's mature and experienced enough to think like a batter and do what's required for the team. So, knowing her as a person, I don't think it's going to make too much of a difference, her being a captain or not. Soniya also agrees with it. I don't think that captaincy pressure will matter that much to her. She is used to it now. Like she said in an interview, a captain is more answerable. So now she has an idea of what she is going to face. She will take it as an opportunity. There are still lots of trophies to be won. Aarti adds, If you have that hunger to win, then obviously there are a lot of things which come your way and I guess she has that hunger and proved it during WPL also. She has handled the team there very well. Rangarajan returns to clarity of thought in Smriti, the leader. Smriti is such an experienced player. She knows every player - literally every player. Practically, shes very, very clear. She doesn't waste her time around and wants to do what's right for the team. Even in meetings, she's very clear with the messaging that needs to go out to the team. She's been absolutely good and I don't expect her to do anything different in the Indian team. Aarti adds, If you have that hunger to win, then obviously there are a lot of things which come your way and I guess she has that hunger and proved it during WPL also. She has handled the team there very well. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Too Many Trophies! Shai Hope Faces Luggage Woes
West Indies captain Shai Hope has continued his exceptional form against India, scoring his fourth century and fifth fifty-plus score in seven innings during the ongoing tour. His consistent 'Player of the Match' performances have been crucial, with the series now level at 2-2 heading into the decider on October 17 in Bengaluru. Hope also reflected on the challenging pitch conditions during their recent win.
Sanju Samson Reveals How India Let Winning Position Slip Against West Indies In 4th T20I
After the defeat, Sanju Samson reflected on how the partnership between Tilak Varma and Nitish Kumar Reddy kept India in the hunt during the chase.
Shreyas Iyer Pinpoints Reason Why India Lost To West Indies In 4th T20I
India face a must-win situation aginst West Indies, with the visitors winning the fourth T20I. Talking about the latest loss, India skipper Shreyas Iyer on Wednesday stressed the need for better execution
Samson: Tilak's wicket the 'turning point' in India's loss
India lost the fourth T20I by 24 runs while chasing 248 in Hyderabad
India Squad For New Zealand Tests: BCCI Keen To Back Injured India Star In 2 Formats - Report
BCCI is yet to announce the teams for the ODIs and Test matches against New Zealand, starting November 4.
Abhishek Sharma Sets New World Record, Surpasses Suryakumar Yadav For Huge Feat
India opener Abhishek Sharma continued his meteoric rise in T20I cricket, shattering another massive world record during the fourth T20I against the West Indies on Wednesday.
Sunil Gavaskar Blasts West Indies Star, Questions His Sportsmanship In 4th T20I vs India
Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar tore into West Indies pacer Shamar Joseph over his lack of sportsmanship during the 4th T20I in Hyderabad on Wednesday.
PSG down Manchester City, Real Madrid edge past Roma
Paris St Germain defeated Manchester City 4-2 in a thrilling Champions League encounter, with a dominant first-half performance. The match took place amidst scrutiny over City's financial breaches. Erling Haaland set a new record as the fastest player to reach 60 Champions League goals. Other notable results included Liverpool's 6-3 win over LASK, Aston Villa's 6-0 victory against Fenerbahce, and Real Madrid's dramatic 4-3 comeback against AS Roma.
Hope Unstoppable, India Left Searching for Answers
Shai Hope's unbeaten 102 and Keemo Paul's five-wicket haul led West Indies to a 24-run victory over India, levelling the five-match T20I series at 2-2.
Shreyas Flags India's Bowling Lapses After Windies Defeat
India's captain Shreyas Iyer attributed the team's 24-run defeat against the West Indies in the fourth T20I to poor bowling execution. The loss levelled the five-match series 2-2, setting up a decider on Saturday. West Indies skipper Shai Hope and bowler Keemo Paul also shared their perspectives on the match and pitch conditions.
Sai Sudharsan gathering info before the tour down under
The West Indies: West Indies captain Shai Hope backed his bowling decisions after his side defeated India by 24 runs in the fourth T20I, saying the conditions were more even for both teams and the visitors had done well to give themselves a chance to win the series in Bengaluru. Hope led from the front with an unbeaten 102 off 50 balls before Keemo Paul claimed a five-wicket haul to help West Indies defend their massive total of 247/3 and level the five-match series 2-2 on Wednesday. Reflecting on the decision to give Gudakesh Motie only two overs despite the spinner taking two wickets in successive deliveries, Hope said managing bowling spells in Indian conditions was not always straightforward. Well, just, here in India, it's always tough to give bowlers three in a row, especially on conditions maybe say, yes, give him another one. But sometimes you just have to make a decision and back it. Just one of those things that happened today, Hope said after being named Player of the Match. Hope also felt the conditions were more balanced than in previous games, particularly with the dew factor posing a challenge for the team bowling second. He credited India for their performance but was pleased that West Indies had managed to keep the series alive. Yeah, for sure. Conditions were a little bit more similar for both sides. I just felt as though (with) the dew around, it's always going to be a part of the game when they chase it. Again, a really good cricket game. They played good cricket in all phases as well. So you got to give them credit. But we did well to give ourselves a chance to win the series in Bangalore, he said. The West Indies skipper, who has been among the runs throughout the tour, joked about the challenge of taking home another Player of the Match award before explaining his approach to building the innings. Well, to be honest, those were a bit heavy; we got to look at luggage weight. So I think we're gonna have some problems when I go back home with those Player of the Match awards, Hope said with a smile. On his unbeaten century, he said the priority was to provide a strong platform before allowing the middle order to accelerate and finish the innings strongly. Yeah, just trying to give the team the best chance, man. So as long as we lay that foundation at the start, we got a 50-plus opening partnership. So it was good for us to start innings and then obviously we got that foundation, you can express yourself a bit more in the middle period and then try to give the team the best finish as could be possible, he said. Hope added that West Indies believed their total was competitive, particularly after noticing that the surface was offering variable bounce and becoming harder to score on as the innings progressed. I honestly felt it was a decent score because the surface was actually holding a bit more than we thought initially. We felt as though the pitch would probably come on a bit better. But I found that with the new ball, some balls were kicking up a lot more and then some were staying down as well. So it's a bit too pace to start and then obviously with the spinners and the quicks in the back end, it was a little bit more difficult to hit through the line. So I felt as though 240 plus was a decent score, he said. Hope added that West Indies believed their total was competitive, particularly after noticing that the surface was offering variable bounce and becoming harder to score on as the innings progressed. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
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4th T20I: Shreyas Blames Bowling For India's Loss, Backs Batting Approach Ahead Of Series Decider
Shreyas Iyer: India captain Shreyas Iyer admitted that poor execution of line and length with the ball cost his side the fourth T20I against West Indies, but backed the team's batting approach in the 24-run defeat that levelled the five-match series 2-2 in Hyderabad on Wednesday. West Indies posted a mammoth 247/3, powered by skipper Shai Hope's unbeaten 102 off 50 balls and Sherfane Rutherford's 49 not out off 26 deliveries, before Keemo Paul claimed a five-wicket haul to restrict India to 223 and set up a series decider in Bengaluru. Reflecting on the defeat, Iyer said India's bowlers had failed to execute their plans effectively, making the chase increasingly difficult despite the team's positive intent with the bat. Yeah, it all started with bowling. I think we didn't execute our line and lengths well, and at the end of the day, chasing 250, you have to go in a certain pattern when you're coming in chasing. So I like the approach when we were chasing, but we were unfortunate we couldn't execute our plans in bowling, and that's where we fell a bit short, Iyer said. Asked whether Abhishek Sharma's limited time on strike had affected his start, Iyer dismissed the suggestion, pointing instead to West Indies' disciplined bowling and the assistance available from the surface. Not really. We were still going 12 an over at that point in time. It's just that they executed their plan, and there was a bit to offer from the wicket as well. The ball was kicking a bit, and they used the field pretty well. So credit where it's due, and their execution was spot on, he said. Iyer also acknowledged that the surface had offered some assistance to the bowlers, particularly during the middle overs, when the ball held up and produced occasional uneven bounce. Yeah, it was holding a bit, and there was some odd bounce as well. But yeah, knowing that, I feel the bowlers, they realised it. They are bowlers, and the way they bowled according to the field, that's what was important, especially in those middle overs, he said. The India captain praised West Indies for regaining control after India threatened to build momentum during the chase, saying their ability to respond under pressure made the difference. Even though the momentum shifted towards us in between, still the ability to bounce back was top-notch, and I'm sure the fifth one would be an interesting one, Iyer added. Despite the defeat, Iyer pointed to India's ability to score heavily on the relaid Hyderabad surface as evidence that the team's aggressive batting approach remained on track. West Indies' total of 247/3 came after India had been unable to contain the visitors' scoring rate, with Hope and Rutherford adding an unbeaten 91-run stand for the fourth wicket. Obviously, you know, getting 220, especially when we were chasing, and then scoring 250, you can see the approach and attitude of every individual. So the approach is going to be the same, Iyer said. Despite the defeat, Iyer pointed to India's ability to score heavily on the relaid Hyderabad surface as evidence that the team's aggressive batting approach remained on track. West Indies' total of 247/3 came after India had been unable to contain the visitors' scoring rate, with Hope and Rutherford adding an unbeaten 91-run stand for the fourth wicket. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
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Men's T20 WC 2028: Kuwait, Saudi Arabia Crowned Champs In Asia Sub-regional Qualifiers
T20 World Cup Asia Regional: Kuwait and Saudi Arabia topped Asia Sub-Regional Qualifiers A and B in Malaysia to progress to the regional final as they inched closer to the Road to ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2028. Bahrain, Qatar, Malaysia and Hong Kong, China also secured places at the Asia Regional Final in 2027, while Kuwaits Adnan Idress and Malaysias Virandeep Singh were named Players of the Tournament. Kuwait finished top of Sub-Regional Qualifier A, ahead of runners-up Bahrain and third-placed Qatar, with all three securing their spots at the ICC Mens T20 World Cup Asia Regional Final in 2027. Saudi Arabia claimed the Sub-Regional Qualifier B title, with Hong Kong China finishing second and hosts Malaysia third to complete the six-team line-up progressing from the two events. Both Qualifiers ran simultaneously in Malaysia, with Kuwaits Adnan Idress named Player of the Tournament for Sub-Regional Qualifier A, and Malaysias Virandeep Singh receiving the award for Sub-Regional Qualifier B. The six advancing teams will now continue their journey at the Asia Regional Final in 2027, where places in the ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2028 Global Qualifier will be up for grabs. Kuwait captain Mohamed Aslam said: Winning the T20 World Cup Qualifier is an incredibly proud moment for all of us. Our success came from clear planning, disciplined preparation, belief in our players, and a strong team culture. We worked hard to build a team that plays fearless, attacking cricket while staying united under pressure. The players deserve immense credit for their commitment and the way they delivered when it mattered most. Saudi Arabia captain Waji Ul Hassan added: It is an incredible feeling and a historic moment for Saudi cricket. Winning our first ICC tournament is a dream come true and a reward for our hard work, dedication, and determination. We are extremely proud to represent Saudi Arabia and bring this achievement home. Most importantly, I am incredibly proud of my teammates, who demonstrated outstanding commitment, unity, and fighting spirit throughout the tournament. Kuwait captain Mohamed Aslam said: Winning the T20 World Cup Qualifier is an incredibly proud moment for all of us. Our success came from clear planning, disciplined preparation, belief in our players, and a strong team culture. We worked hard to build a team that plays fearless, attacking cricket while staying united under pressure. The players deserve immense credit for their commitment and the way they delivered when it mattered most. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
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Digital Desk | Hyderabad, Oct 14 (IANS) Skipper Shai Hope struck a magnificent unbeaten century before Keemo Paul produced a match-winning five-wicket haul as West Indies defeated India by 24 runs in the fourth T20I at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad on Wednesday to level the five-match series 2-2. Hope smashed an unbeaten 102 off just 50 balls, while Sherfane Rutherford contributed 49 not out off 26 deliveries as West Indies posted a formidable 247/3 after being asked to bat first. In reply, India were bowled out for 223, with Paul returning figures of 5/41 to headline a disciplined bowling effort that kept the hosts from completing the chase despite a flying start. The victory kept the West Indies' hopes of winning the series alive ahead of the deciding fifth T20I in Bengaluru. It was also a significant result for the visitors, who had not beaten India in a T20I on Indian soil since 2019 before this tour. Hope continued his prolific run on the tour, registering his second century of the series and his third in T20 Internationals. He received strong support from Rutherford as the pair added an unbeaten 91 runs for the fourth wicket, the second-highest partnership for that wicket for West Indies in T20Is. The duo had set the record with a 120-run stand in the previous match in Ranchi. West Indies made a blistering start, racing to 79/1 in the powerplay, their highest powerplay total against India in the format. Jewel Andrew scored a brisk 21 off 16 balls, while Hope kept the scoreboard moving as the visitors reached 118/2 at the halfway stage. Shimron Hetmyer added further momentum with a blistering 33 off just 12 deliveries, striking at 275. West Indies reached their hundred in only 7.4 overs, equalling their fastest team hundred against India in T20Is, previously achieved in Lauderhill in 2016. Hope, meanwhile, brought up his half-century off 28 balls before accelerating further in the closing overs. He struck two sixes off the final two deliveries to finish unbeaten on 102, taking West Indies to 247/3 their second-highest T20I total against India, behind the 252/4 they scored in Ranchi earlier in the series. India began the chase aggressively, with Sanju Samson racing to a half-century off just 20 balls. However, Paul changed the complexion of the contest by striking with his first delivery, dismissing the dangerous Samson at deep backward square-leg before removing Ishan Kishan in the same over. The quick double blow halted India's momentum and put the hosts under pressure despite their promising start. Paul returned in the 19th over to claim three more wickets, completing a five-wicket haul and leaving India with too much to do in the final stages. Gudakesh Motie also played a crucial role in the middle overs, dismissing Abhishek Sharma and Naman Dhir in successive deliveries to further derail the chase. Roston Chase had earlier helped keep Abhishek quiet, while Shamar Springer delivered an important 18th over that cost just five runs, tightening the pressure on the Indian batters. India struggled to maintain the required scoring rate as wickets fell at regular intervals, with the disciplined efforts of the West Indies bowlers complementing Paul's decisive spell. The visitors' attack ensured that Hope's imposing total proved beyond the hosts. The match ended in unfortunate circumstances for India, with Arshdeep Singh retiring hurt after clutching his left shoulder, leaving Mayank Yadav without a batting partner as the hosts' innings came to a close. West Indies' all-round performance ensured they bounced back from their defeat in Indore and set up a series decider in Bengaluru, with Hope's outstanding century and Paul's five-wicket haul proving decisive in Hyderabad. Brief scores: West Indies 247/3 in 20 overs (Shai Hope 102 not out, Sherfane Rutherford 49 not out; Prince Yadav 1/36) beat India 223/9 in 19.3 overs (Sanju Samson 56, Tilak Varma 43; Kemo Paul 5/40, Gudakesh Motie 2/13) by 24 runs
Why Lord's Is Giving Pitch 9 a Two-Season Break
The Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) has relaid Pitch 9 at Lord's after it received an unsatisfactory rating from the ICC following England's Test against New Zealand in June. The pitch, which saw all 40 wickets fall in just 166 overs, will be out of use for at least the next two seasons. MCC has launched a comprehensive review of pitch preparation and plans to use hybrid surfaces to mitigate the impact.
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Mandhana Says Captaincy Won't Be A New Challenge, Aims To Do Justice To Role
ODI World Cup: India's newly appointed women's cricket captain Smriti Mandhana said the full-time leadership role would not be an entirely new challenge for her, given her nearly decade-long experience as vice-captain, and expressed confidence that the additional responsibility would not affect her batting approach. Mandhana was appointed captain of the Indian women's team earlier this month, on the same day Harmanpreet Kaur stepped down from the role. The 29-year-old, who has been part of the Indian team since 2013, will lead the side in white-ball cricket going forward. I have been the vice-captain for the last almost 10 years. So, I have been part of the leadership role, and I wouldnt say it is an extremely new thing. But for sure, it is something to look forward to, and hopefully, I can do justice to the role, Mandhana told reporters on Wednesday. The left-handed batter also stressed that captaincy would not change the way she approaches her innings, adding that she would continue to play according to the team's requirements and trust her instincts. I have become a captain on the field; there should be no changes in my batting. My coach used to tell me when I was 15 years old, Whenever you bat, always think you are the captain. You always take that responsibility, and those things have never changed. If the ball is in the zone, I will still go for it. I will still play whatever (way) the team needs (me to), she said. Calling the series an exciting opportunity, Mandhana said India would also look to learn from their opponents while using the matches to establish their approach ahead of the upcoming Champions Trophy. The first bilateral (series) with Zimbabwe, I think, is very exciting. It is our first time playing with them. Sometimes, playing with Zimbabwe and all the Associate nations, it feels like you can learn a lot from them as well because they enjoy playing their cricket, she said. Sometimes, we get into a lot of things professionally. You can learn a lot from them. But again, we have six T20 matches before the Champions Trophy as an Indian team, so we will look to set standards as an Indian team (as to) how we approach the next three months leading up to the Champions Trophy, Mandhana added. The first bilateral (series) with Zimbabwe, I think, is very exciting. It is our first time playing with them. Sometimes, playing with Zimbabwe and all the Associate nations, it feels like you can learn a lot from them as well because they enjoy playing their cricket, she said. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
