Asian Games: India Beat Sri Lanka By 124 Runs To Enter Mens Cricket Final
Karogi Sports Park: Defending champions India thrashed Sri Lanka in the mens cricket semi-final of the Asian Games here at the Karogi Sports Park on Thursday and cruised smoothly into the final, where a high-profile clash against Pakistan awaits. Defending a 170-run target against the Islanders, Indias pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah ran through the oppositions top-order to start off the second innings with a double-wicket over as opener Sineth Jayawardena and keeper-batter Sohan de Livera were dismissed for a duck. In the next over, Ravi Bishnois sharp throw helped India claim a third wicket after opening batter Lasith Croospulle was run out as the Sahan Arachchige-led side slipped to 2-3 in just seven deliveries. What followed next was complete dominance from the Indian bowlers as Axar Patel returned with two wickets in the fourth over, further reducing Sri Lanka to 18/5 at the end of that over. With Axar and Sanju Samson then inflicting Nuwanidu Fernandos run-out and Washington Sundar dismissing Wanuja Sahan, trouble loomed over the Lankans as their batting unit came tumbling down. As the win looked easily achievable, skipper Iyer handed the ball to Abhishek Sharma to bring a bowling change, and the move worked tremendously in Indias favour as the left-arm orthodox spinner scalped two in two, sending Chamika Karunaratne and Binura Fernando back to the pavilion on the very next ball after Chamika Karunaratne was run out. With the 10th over, seeing three wickets falling, India closed out the Sri Lankan innings in just 9.5 overs, bowling the side out for mere 45 runs. Except Nuwanidu Fernando, no other batter could manage to score in double figures as the batting unit fell like dominoes. Earlier, India, after being put to bat first, piled up 169/7 in their 20-over quota courtesy of Ishan Kishans unbeaten 80 off 46 deliveries on what looked like a challenging pitch. With Vaibhav Sooryavanshi returning to the lineup and opening the batting for the side, the youngster held one end strong while his fellow opener Abhishek Sharma and wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson were dismissed cheaply with identical scores of seven. Skipper Shreyas Iyer too couldnt put up a show as Wanuja Sahan picked him for a run-a-ball 13. Coming in to bat at No. 5, Ishan Kishan then steadied the innings and kept piling on runs, hitting five sixes and four boundaries during his stay in the middle as the Men in Blue managed to post a defendable total. India, the defending champions at the Games, will now face Pakistan, who beat Bangladesh in the other semi-final, eyeing a top-of-the-podium finish for a second consecutive time. Skipper Shreyas Iyer too couldnt put up a show as Wanuja Sahan picked him for a run-a-ball 13. Coming in to bat at No. 5, Ishan Kishan then steadied the innings and kept piling on runs, hitting five sixes and four boundaries during his stay in the middle as the Men in Blue managed to post a defendable total. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Asian Games 2026: India thrash SL, face Pakistan in final
Ishan Kishan's explosive unbeaten 80 and Jasprit Bumrah's two wicket burst were instrumental in guiding India to a 124-run win over Sri Lanka in the Asian Games men's cricket semifinal on Thursday.
Royal Desert Champions Look To 'kickstart A Long-time Legacy' After Draft Picks
The Royal Desert Champions: The Royal Desert Champions are looking to kickstart a long-time legacy after building their squad for the upcoming Abu Dhabi T10, which starts on the 7th of November. With Nicolas Pooran, Philip Salt and Sherfane Rutherford already pre-signed, the Royal Desert Champions have added Muhammad Waseem, Naseem Shah and Maheesh Theekshana to their arsenal as they look for a strong season ahead. The important thing is to build a really strong core before going into the draft since the draft can be a draw sometimes. Its a challenge to pick a new team and the process is extremely dynamic, but we had a really strong strategy for the auction. Its a well-known fact that bowlers win tournaments like this. If you dont have a good bowling unit, things can go downhill quite fast. Excited to get going in the tournament, Royal Desert Champions are here to kickstart a legacy that will last a very long time in the Abu Dhabi T10, Robin Singh, Team Director, Royal Desert Champions said. Pooran will be leading the side, which has the presence of several other international stars in Salt, Rutherford, Brandon King and Waseem, while the bowling unit has a packed line-up featuring the likes of Naseem, Dushmantha Chameera, Theekshana, Chris Jordan and Luke Wood. With a dynamic blend of pace, power, versatility and experience, the Royal Desert Champions are ready to bring a new level of intensity to the fastest format of cricket. Royal Desert Champions is built on the belief that champions are revealed when conditions are toughest. The desert embodies the qualities we want this team to stand for - resilience, courage, adaptability, and ambition. The squad that we have built is a testament to the way we define what it means to play for Royal Desert Champions - a team that the emirate can be proud of, a brand that connects with fans locally and globally, and a franchise with the ambition to build a lasting legacy, said Amit Narang, Owner, Royal Desert Champions. Pooran will be leading the side, which has the presence of several other international stars in Salt, Rutherford, Brandon King and Waseem, while the bowling unit has a packed line-up featuring the likes of Naseem, Dushmantha Chameera, Theekshana, Chris Jordan and Luke Wood. With a dynamic blend of pace, power, versatility and experience, the Royal Desert Champions are ready to bring a new level of intensity to the fastest format of cricket. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
India decimated Sri Lanka in the mens cricket semi-finals in the ongoing Asian Games 2026. With conditions in Japan unknown for both teams, a close contest was expected. Especially after Japan were close to pulling...
Asian Games: Kishan pushes India to 169/7 in semifinal against Sri Lanka
If it weren't for the 'X' factor of Sooryavanshi and Kishan, India would have ended up with a much lower total
Asian Games: Ishan's Unbeaten 80 Leads India To 169/7 In SF Against Sri Lanka
Karogi Sports Park: Ishan Kishan played a stellar knock of 80 from 46 balls to power India to a strong total of 169/7 in challenging conditions in the semifinal against Sri Lanka here at the Karogi Sports Park on Thursday. With the cracks on the surface assisting spinners, the batters found big runs challenging; however, Ishan and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi (38 from 21 balls) led the charge with the bat and helped India put up what seems to be an over-par score in the semifinal after being asked to bat first. Ishan continued his rich vein of form as he played a gem of a knock considering the challenging conditions, mirroring his 77 from 40 balls in the T20 World Cup against Pakistan in tough conditions. He carried the innings after Sooryavanshi provided a strong start, although India had lost Abhishek Sharma (7) and Sanju Samson (7) early in the innings. Sooryavanshi returned to the Playing XI after missing the previous four T20Is, while Jasprit Bumrah was also back after being rested for the one-off T20I against Japan. The 15-year-old was measured in his approach at the start but unleashed some breathtaking strokes as he hit six fours and a couple of sixes in his stroke-laden knock. This included hitting a reverse-hit four off spinner Tharindu Ratnayake and a few fierce hits. While he kept going, India lost Abhishek and Samson in the second and third overs to spinners. Off-spinner Tharindu Ratnayake showed his ambidextrousness as he switched to left-arm spin for right-handers and got Samson cleaned up. Sooryavanshi made 38 before he was dismissed by spinner and captain Sahan Arachchige trying to hit him big. India captain Shreyas Iyer (13 from 13) could not do much and was cleaned up by a jaffa from left-arm spinner Wanuja Sahan. Axar Patel was promoted up the order to No.6 ahead of Tilak Varma, but Axar managed eight from 13 balls as he was dismissed by Arachchige top-edging a slog. Part-time off-spinner Nuwanidu Fernando removed Tilak Varma, stumped for two as India were 125/6 in 15 overs. But Ishan continued going and brought up his fifty in 33 balls in the 17th over. He was a bit lucky too, as his mishit was dropped, while one top edge landed in no-man's land. The ambidextrousness from Ratnayake continued as he switched to right-arm off-spin for Shivam Dube and got him caught at covers for three, although Arachchige took a brilliant catch. Ishan and Sundar hit a couple of sixes in the 20th over to take 18 from that and help India finish strong on 169/7. But Ishan continued going and brought up his fifty in 33 balls in the 17th over. He was a bit lucky too, as his mishit was dropped, while one top edge landed in no-man's land. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
'This is not cricket': Gambhir slams 400-run Guwahati pitch
Gautam Gambhir criticised the batting-friendly Guwahati pitch after India chased West Indies' 405, saying bowlers need more help in ODIs.
Pakistan Reach Asian Games Cricket Final After Six-Wicket Win Over Bangladesh
Abdul Samad smashed 22 off five balls in an unbeaten 30 on Thursday as Pakistan's men cruised into their maiden Asian Games cricket final, where arch-rivals India are the potential opponents. Pakistan thumped Bangladesh by six wickets with nine balls to spare in a semi-final reduced to 13 overs because the outfield was too wet for play at the start time of 9:00 am. They will face either world champions India or Sri Lanka, who clash later, for the gold medal on Saturday. To be honest, we don't really care about who will win and who will reach the final, said Pakistan batsman Saim Ayub, who scored 21. All we care about is winning the final, no matter who we are playing against. Pakistan asked Bangladesh to bat on a heavily cracked pitch that had been covered for almost a weekat the Korogi Athletic Park Stadium because of torrential rain. Under clear blue skies, Pakistan's bowlers then had Bangladesh reeling at 21-3 and then 45-4 in the sixth over. Towhid Hridoy led a recovery with 42 off 25 balls with two fours and four sixes as Bangladesh posted 111-7. Pakistan lost three early wickets as they chased quick runs. But once Samad and Hasan Nawaz came together at 53-4 in the seventh over the result never looked in doubt. The pair posted an unbroken stand of 59 in 32 balls as they raced to their target. Samad was 30 not out at the end off 15 balls while Nawaz was on 27 at the end. The match was effectively decided by Samad's remarkable 22 runs off five balls in the 10th over, bowled by Bangladesh's Mustafizur Rahman, when Pakistan still needed 36 from 24 balls. Nawaz prodded a single off to third man off the first ball before Samad launched a towering six over long on and four fours off consecutive deliveries to leave Pakistan needing only 13 from 18 balls. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Bangladesh will play the loser of the other semi-final for the bronze medal, also on Saturday.
Australia win rain-marred ODI to avoid South Africa whitewash
Australia secured a 45-run victory over South Africa via the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method in Potchefstroom, preventing a whitewash in the three-match one-day international series, with Xavier Bartlett and Adam Zampa leading the bowling attack.
India bring in Sooryavanshi; Sri Lanka hand three debuts and field
Both teams have picked spin-heavy bowling attacks with Jasprit Bumrah India's only specialist fast bowler
Asian Games: Sooryavanshi, Bumrah return as SL ask India to bat first in SF
Digital Desk | Nisshin, Oct 1 (IANS) Teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and pace maestro Jasprit Bumrah returned as India fielded their full-strength available team after being asked to bat first in the semifinal against Sri Lanka at the Korogi Sports Park here on Thursday. India made two changes to their Playing XI from the one-off T20I against Japan as Sooryavanshi and Bumrah returned, with Yash Thakur and Arshdeep Singh making way for them. After missing the entire Afghanistan series and the one-off T20I against Japan in the build-up to the Asian Games, Sooryavanshi was back in the Playing XI and slated to open the innings alongside Abhishek Sharma. Sanju Samson was carded to bat at No.3, while India also didn't drop Ishan Kishan, who is slated to bat at No.5. India also brought in Bumrah after he was rested for the Japan T20I, as the Men in Blue fielded their full-strength team that is available, with only the injured Varun Chakravarthy and Harshit Rana not in the squad. Sri Lanka have a largely second-string side with Sahan Arachchige leading the side, which has the likes of Chamika Karunaratne, Nuwanidu Fernando and Binura Fernando. Both the teams enter into the semifinals with minimal game time as their quarterfinals were washed out due to rain in Nisshin. India were to face Afghanistan in the quarterfinals, while Sri Lanka were to lock horns against Nepal. However, incessant rains in the city washed the clashes out as India and Sri Lanka made it to the semis on virtue of being the higher-ranked teams than their opponents. Playing XIs: Sri Lanka Playing XI: Lasith Croospulle, Sineth Jayawardena, Sohan de Livera(w), Ashen Bandara, Sahan Arachchige(c), Nuwanidu Fernando, Chamika Karunaratne, Wanuja Sahan, Vijayakanth Viyaskanth, Tharindu Ratnayake, Binura Fernando India Playing XI: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson(w), Shreyas Iyer(c), Ishan Kishan, Tilak Varma, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Jasprit Bumrah
Samad special books Pakistan's spot in gold-medal clash
Samad and Nawaz took Pakistan home after a scratchy start in a shortened game
Asian Games: Pakistan Beat Bangladesh In Shortened Semifinal To Move Into Gold Medal Clash
Korogi Sports Park: Pakistan defeated Bangladesh in a curtailed semifinal at the Korogi Sports Park after chasing down 112 in 11.3 overs with six wickets in hand here on Thursday. Although the weather was clear, a slushy outfield delayed the toss and the start of play due to incessant rains washing out all four quarterfinals in the tournament. The contest was reduced to 13 overs per side as Bangladesh gave Pakistan some scares, but the Men in Green managed to hunt down the target with nine balls to spare. This is now Pakistan's first men's cricket final at the Asiad after they bagged only a bronze medal in the 2010 edition. Meanwhile, Bangladesh were the inaugural champions and have finished third in the 2014 and 2022 Asian Games. With cracks on the pitch, the spinners received a lot of assistance as they had the major say in the contest. The likes of Sufyan Moqim, Arafat Minhas, Saim Ayub, Rishad Hossain and Mahedi Hasan troubled the batters. Bangladesh managed to put up 111/7 in the 13 overs. The Pakistani bowlers spun a web to keep Bangladesh to 111/7. Ayub was in particular hard to deal with as he gave only three runs in his two overs for a wicket. On a sluggish pitch, Bangladesh still had a competitive target with Towhid Hridoy (42 from 25 balls) giving that much-needed push in the middle overs. Bangladesh were losing wickets at regular intervals as Tanzid Hasan Tamim (7), captain Litton Das (2) and Parvez Hossain Emon (1) all lost their wickets inside the powerplay. The other opener Saif Hassan (19) got a start but could not keep on going as he was dismissed LBW by Moqim. Bangladesh were 45/4 in 6.3 overs but then came the fight from Hridoay, who hit four sixes and two fours in a stroke-laden knock. Mosaddek Hossain also scored 11 from 16 balls as Bangladesh finished on 111/7. Pakistan were given a scare when Mahedi Hasan removed Sahibzada Farhan in the second over. Maaz Sadaqat (15 from 7 balls), Usman Khan (14 from 9 balls) and Saim Ayub (21 from 12 balls) kept the scoreboard ticking with their cameos. Pakistan were 76/4 and then got the over that they needed when Abdul Samad and Hasan Nawaz took 23 overs from Mustafizur Rahman's 10th over, with Samad hitting 22 of them. The Men in Green then needed 13 runs from 18 balls, and they had done the hard work. Nawaz hit the winning four in the 12th over to win the game. Pakistan were given a scare when Mahedi Hasan removed Sahibzada Farhan in the second over. Maaz Sadaqat (15 from 7 balls), Usman Khan (14 from 9 balls) and Saim Ayub (21 from 12 balls) kept the scoreboard ticking with their cameos. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
India vs Sri Lanka Live Streaming Asian Games Cricket Semi-Final Live Telecast: When And Where To Watch
India vs Sri Lanka LIVE Score: India take on Sri Lanka in a highly anticipated men's cricket semi-final at the Asian Games 2026 amid weather concerns.
It's Not Cricket: Gautam Gambhir Unhappy Even As India Beat West Indies In 800-Run 2nd ODI
India head coach Gautam Gambhir criticised the batting-friendly pitch, calling for better balance between bat and ball to support bowlers in future matches.
Mitchell Marsh Hails Improvements After Australia Win Final One-Day International
Australian captain Mitchell Marsh hailed the improvement shown by his team after they were convincing winners of the third and final one-day international against South Africa in Potchefstroom on Wednesday. Australia won by 45 runs according to the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method after South Africa's reply to Australia's 322 for nine was ended by rain after 28 overs. South Africa, who won the first two matches to clinch the series, were struggling on 145 for four at the stoppage, well short of the required rate. I thought the batting in particular showed some real improvement, especially from a few of our young guys, said Marsh. It was a disappointing series but nice to finish with a win. Marsh said there were encouraging signs looking ahead to the 2027 Cricket World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia. It's gradual improvement. We have some guys that haven't a lot of experience at this level and in particular playing in South Africa against a team that plays very well at home. Marsh said he was sorry the match had not gone the distance which seemed a fair comment because Ryan Rickelton, on 71 not out, was the last remaining specialist batsman after Tony de Zorzi injured a hamstring while fielding and was ruled out of the rest of the match. South Africa, having already won the series, rested key players in captain Temba Bavuma, batsman David Miller and bowlers Marco Jansen and Keshav Maharaj. Australian Test captain Pat Cummins returned for his first one-day international since November 2024. Marsh and Travis Head again gave Australia a fast start after stand-in captain Aiden Markram won the toss and sent them in, putting on 78 for the first wicket off 53 balls. Unlike in the first two matches, there were solid contributions down the Australian batting order, anchored by Alex Careys 74 off 88 balls. Australia's bowlers kept the pressure on South Africa. Xavier Bartlett was excellent with the new ball, dismissing Quinton de Kock and Markram inside the ten-over powerplay. Leg-spinner Adam Zampa found his best form after being expensive in the first two matches, taking two for 33 in six overs, while Cummins built up lively pace. Although he did not take a wicket he conceded only 17 runs in five overs. Bavuma said in accepting the series trophy that South Africa had definitely made strides during the series. He said the decision to rest leading players was a combination of providing opportunities to other players and prioritising a three-match Test series which starts in Durban on October 9. Brief scores: Australia 322-9 in 50 overs (M. Marsh 56, O. Peake 48, A. Carey 74, M. Renshaw 30; G. Coetzee 2-61, L. Williams 2-48, C. Bosch 4-60) v South Africa 145-4 in 28 overs (R. Rickelton 71 not out; X. Bartlett 2-25, A. Zampa 2-33). Result: Australia won by 45 runs (DLS method). Toss: South Africa. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Series: South Africa won the three-match series 2-1.
'What A Player, Unreal Form By Gill'
Shubman Gill's record 223 not out sparked widespread praise as India chased 406 against West Indies, with the captain rewriting multiple ODI records and leading a historic eight-wicket victory.
India vs Sri Lanka Live Streaming Asian Games Cricket Semi-Final: When And Where To Watch Free Live Telecast
Following a majestic hundred against the West Indies, former Indian skipper Rohit Sharma said he would keep the celebration private and that some things are just meant to be with you and not to be shared.
There Was Bit Of Pressure: Shubman Gill Reveals Turning Point In India's Record Chase
Shubman Gill on Wednesday admitted India initially felt the pressure of chasing a 400-plus target in the second ODI against the West Indies.
Keonjhar Miners Beat Sambalpur Warriors To Lift Odisha T20 League Trophy
Subhranshu Senapati Credits Team Effort: Keonjhar Miners were crowned champions of the Odisha T20 League - CM Trophy after registering a dominant nine-wicket victory over Sambalpur Warriors in the final at the iconic Barabati Stadium. The Miners delivered a commanding all-round performance with both bat and ball to seal the title, capping an impressive campaign with a comprehensive victory in the summit clash. Sambalpur Warriors were bowled out for 102 in 18.3 overs after Keonjhars bowlers produced an excellent performance. The Warriors struggled to build momentum from the outset and kept losing wickets at regular intervals, eventually being reduced to 55/8 before being bowled out for a modest total. Jamala Mohapatra was among the standout performers with the ball for Keonjhar, returning impressive figures of 2/13 in his four overs and playing a key role in restricting the Warriors. In reply, Keonjhar suffered an early setback when Rajesh Dhupar was dismissed for just one run off four deliveries. However, Mayank Pattanayak and captain Subhranshu Senapati ensured there were no further hiccups, stitching together an unbeaten 89-run partnership to guide their side to the title. Pattanayak led the charge with an unbeaten 72 off just 34 deliveries, while Senapati provided valuable support with 32 not out off 26 balls. The duo remained composed throughout the chase and took Keonjhar across the finish line in style. Subhranshu Senapati Credits Team Effort Reflecting on the triumph, Keonjhar captain Subhranshu Senapati expressed his happiness and credited the team owner, support staff and players for their contribution throughout the title-winning campaign. I am extremely happy with this victory. I would especially like to thank our team owner and support staff for the way they stood by us throughout the tournament. We lost our first two matches, and making a comeback from that position was not easy. The support and belief they showed in us played a huge role in our journey. The credit also goes to all the players, who remained committed to the team and played for each other. Their dedication was visible on the field, and I am delighted that we have finished the tournament as champions. Pratyush Manish Khemka Hails Team's Resilience Keonjhar Miners owner Pratyush Manish Khemka also expressed his pride in the team's achievement, highlighting the players' resilience after losing their opening two matches. It has been a fantastic game and an incredible journey for us. Although we lost our first two matches in the tournament, the team showed tremendous character to bounce back and win three games in a row. We carried that momentum into the final and delivered a dominant performance. The way the players have come together and performed as a unit has been remarkable. As a team owner, I am extremely proud of what this group has achieved. Watching them play with such commitment and deliver these results truly fills my heart with joy. Words cannot fully describe how happy and proud I feel today. Dignitaries Attend the Grand Finale 1. SHRI KANAK VARDHAN SINGH DEO Honble Deputy Chief Minister, Odisha 2. SHRI SURYABANSHI SURAJ Honble Minister Sports and Youth Affairs, Odisha 3. SHRI BHARTRUHARI MAHATAB Honble Member of Parliament, Kataka, Odisha 4. SHRI MANMOHAN SAMAL Honble Member of Parliament Rajya Sabha 5. Pankaj Lochan Mohanty, President, OCA 6. Jagamohan Pattnaik, Vice President, OCA 7. Sanjay Behera, Secretary, OCA 8. Bikash Pradhan, Treasurer, OCA 9. Pratap Chandra Pradhan, Apex Council Member 10. SHRI Binod Dash, President Odisha Association for Rowing and Skulling 11. Shri Avijit Paul, General Secretary of Odisha Olympic association The dignitaries were felicitated during the ceremony by members of the OCA Apex Council. Season Awards The tournament's individual awards recognised some of the leading performers of the season. Moment of the Season: Swastik Samal presented by Gulshan Jhurani. Player of the Season: Vageesh Sharma, Keonjhar Miners presented by Susanta Kumar Panda, Managing Director, Bharat Masala. Purple Cap: Vageesh Sharma, Keonjhar Miners presented by Jyoti Ranjan Mishra, Representative, Budhababa Hospital. Orange Cap: Shantanu Mishra presented by Susanta Kumar Panda, Managing Director, Bharat Masala. The match officials were also recognised during the ceremony, including umpires Dhiraj Kumar Singh and Arun Kumar Basa, third umpire Durgadatta Das, fourth umpire Subrat Das, scorers Birabara Nayak and Sandeep Jee, and referee P. Jayachandra. Champions Crowned at Barabati The Keonjhar Miners players received their winner's medals from OCA President Pankaj Lochan Mohanty. The winner's cheque was presented to Keonjhar Miners by Odisha Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo and Rajya Sabha MP Manmohan Samal. The Keonjhar Miners players received their winner's medals from OCA President Pankaj Lochan Mohanty. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Pakistan vs Bangladesh LIVE Score Updates, Asian Games 2026 Semi-Final
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Irani Cup: Srinagar Ready To Host Historic Clash As Big-ticket Cricket Returns To Sher-i-Kashmir
Save Sharda Temple Committee: Its hard to ignore the sheer buzz around the picturesque Sher-i-Kashmir Stadium. Located in Srinagars Sonwar Bagh area, the ground is nestled in an environmentally rich area by the side of the Jhelum River, tall chinar trees, serene hills and the Shankaracharya temple atop make for a picture-perfect view. Add to it the cool breeze that comes in brings a setting that makes cricket feel at home. But when you look closer, barbed wire rings around the ground catch your eye, while sniffer dogs are doing a final check. Outside, fans jostle in line for passes, holding up a copy of their Aadhaar card, and nobody seems to mind. When the Irani Cup begins here, with Rishabh Pant's Rest of India facing Ranji Trophy champions Jammu and Kashmir, it will mark the start of a time Srinagar has waited for a very long period. The last big-ticket fixture in the city was an ODI between India and Australia in 1986. The one before it, in 1983 against the West Indies, came just months after Kapil Dev's team epically won the ODI World Cup. Raju Raina, then a college student, was in the stands for the clash on October 13, 1983 and still remembers it clearly. Excitement was there as it was the first ODI between India and the West Indies after India were crowned the World Cup winners at the mecca of cricket Lords in London. Upon reaching the stadium, the teams were doing their warm-up. Soon the match started, and India were put in to bat first. It was a full house & the atmosphere was good initially. It was the first time I had the opportunity to see our World Cup-winning cricket stars so up close. One of the friends of my elder brother-in-law got us tickets for 10 rupees, which translates to 1000 rupees for seeing modern-day international games in India. The conditions were comparable to the ones obtainable in England. The ball swung well, as October in Srinagar is pretty cold & fresh. Quite a picturesque cricket stadium, with the Jhelum River on one end & the Shankaracharya hill on the other. A slight breeze was running across the ground, he said in a free-wheeling chat with IANS. After India were bowled out for 176 in 41.2 overs, twelve men came in to dig in the pitch at lunch break, but matters got settled before the West Indies reply started. At 108/0 in 22.4 overs, a dust storm came and forced the game to be abandoned, with the West Indies declared winners. Raju, who also saw a three-day match between North Zone and the visiting Australian team, which had the likes of Ashok Malhotra and Raman Lamba, still remembers it well. The match progressed well until India completed their innings. During lunchtime, suddenly a few people emerged from nowhere and dug up the pitch. But the management got the pitch rolled, and the West Indies innings started. Soon there was a dust storm due to which the match had to be abandoned and the West Indies won. A section of the crowd was restive, engaging in sloganeering etc. Though 12 men were arrested, they were acquitted in 2011. Ravinder Pandita, a former All India Radio and Doordarshan Kashmir commentator who now chairs the Save Sharda Temple Committee - Kashmir, clearly remembers the mood around the 1983 ODI in Srinagar Cricket had its own place in Kashmir, despite the craze for football. Even in cricket, the craze was particularly for Pakistani players because if you go to any college or hostel in those days, then you would find cricket players - not just footballers, cricket players. Before that 1983 ODI, Ranji Trophy matches were going on and, suppose Punjab would come to play or Haryana, they would boo them out. Support was for the J&K team, but J&K was always losing, he said to IANS from Teetwal village. Pandita still remembers the tension before the match in October 1983. Before this India-West Indies ODI, they dug the pitch at night. The West Indian players, I remember, were staying in Broadway Hotel. Many were opposing the hosting of this game, and in this way, the separatists tried to derail it by saying that they don't want to play it happen. Such was the effect that an entertainment band assigned for the entertainment of the visitors couldnt reach their hotel. Then at the last moment, they called us from REC Srinagar. A few youths led by Sukumar Singh Manipuri, who played the guitar, were there, and my brother was playing the mouth organ, and then there would be Anuj Dayal; he would be on the congo. We played in the band and entertained the West Indies players because the main band couldn't come due to the mahaul created. So, it was only the filmi tunes which were played. I think for half an hour we entertained them, and that was the situation. The next day, they found the pitch was dug on the day of the match. Then again, during the lunch break, it was dug in, and then a storm came, and the game was over. So, players had to take cover because booing and throwing bottles were happening towards the Indian fielders. The West Indies were also worried about what would happen in those days. They were quite frightened about whether they were playing in India or not. They were not willing to play, but somehow, I think organisers convinced them to take on the field. So, Indians were always astonished by what was happening. The atmosphere was very bad. The stadium was filled, but it was not mainly for the interest of the game it was full of people there to boo Indian cricketers. Then, next was 1986, India versus Australia ODI. That was captained by Allan Border, and two Kashmiri Pandits were working on the game - Dhruv Narayan Koul, an SBI employee at that time, was the scorer, and I was the commentator, though I didnt do anything as I was observing JP Narayan in English and Indramohan Sahay in Hindi commentary. I interviewed Sunil Gavaskar at a houseboat in Dal Lake, and Allan Border was also there. So, that match went okay and was won by Australia. Then the quiet came. As militancy spread and Kashmiri Pandits like Pandita and Raina were forced to leave Srinagar, paramilitary forces occupied the stadium complex for 18 years and used the dressing rooms as living quarters and stores. First-class cricket returned in 2009, but big games stayed rare. The love of the game never faded, though, and when the Legends League visited Srinagar in 2024, even a makeshift venue was packed. Pandita went back to see the ground for himself two months ago. The majestic Chinar trees are still standing, and I saw them while I was staying in Circuit House. But it's a very small stadium, right? Now we have exposure to bigger stadiums. I thought. 'What kind of a stadium is this?' He believes cricket has won over the valley and its people, now that the likes of Parvez Rasool, Umran Malik, Rasikh Salam and Auqib Nabi are now in India and India A set-ups. Yes, definitely, because the way local tournaments are happening here, people have forgotten football now, while hockey is totally gone. I think Hockey will never pick up again. Football is not the same as it used to be before. So now it's all cricket. Whether it's Baramulla or Anantnag, cricket has become a big thing. That devotion and love for cricket now has a team to match. Jammu and Kashmir won their first Ranji Trophy in February, after 67 years of trying, and Nabis ODI debut in Guwahati, though he leaked 84 runs, made everyone delighted in Srinagar. The stadium was in a race against time to have everything a top-class stadium needs for smooth functioning. He believes cricket has won over the valley and its people, now that the likes of Parvez Rasool, Umran Malik, Rasikh Salam and Auqib Nabi are now in India and India A set-ups. Yes, definitely, because the way local tournaments are happening here, people have forgotten football now, while hockey is totally gone. I think Hockey will never pick up again. Football is not the same as it used to be before. So now it's all cricket. Whether it's Baramulla or Anantnag, cricket has become a big thing. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Rohit Sharma: Veteran India opener Rohit Sharma described the uncharacteristic celebration behind his 35th ODI century against the West Indies at the ACA Stadium in Guwahati as a deeply personal moment, revealing that it was strictly meant for myself. Rohit smashed a brilliant 101 off 75 balls to set up India's historic run-chase of 406 against the West Indies, while stitching a monumental 255-run opening stand with skipper Shubman Gill, who slammed an unbeaten 223. After reaching his century, Rohit did a high-knee kind of jog while completing the single and did a light bat raise. I keep that celebration for myself. Ah, it's for me. It's for me. Some things are just meant to be with you. It's not to be shared. So yeah, that was for me, Rohit said after the match ended. He also shared a light-hearted exchange with teammate Ravindra Jadeja, who quizzed him about the celebration on the field. He was asking me what that was about. I said I'll tell you in the dressing room. It's for me. But he was quite innovative. He wanted me to come and slide and jump, and that's how he wanted me to celebrate. I said, 'Man, after 50 overs of fielding and batting almost for 25-30 overs, I was never going to do that,' he said. Reflecting on the record-breaking chase, Rohit emphasised that the key was not getting overwhelmed by the 400-plus scoreboard and focusing purely on building partnerships. Absolutely. I think the wicket was good. We just wanted to continue to keep batting. We were not thinking too much about the scoreboard, to be honest. We were just trying to play according to the merit of the ball, and we kept stitching the partnership, which was, I think, when you're chasing a target like that, you need to keep stitching big partnerships, and that's what we did, he observed. Rohit was all praise for his opening partner Gill, who stayed till the end to anchor India to a famous eight-wicket victory. Gill was fantastic on the other side, very much in control of his batting the entire innings, and to stay not out till the end was fantastic to see as well, he said. Batting for nearly 30 overs after spending 50 overs on the field in oppressive humidity required immense physical and mental grit, something Rohit attributed to sheer concentration and years of experience. Again, that comes down to concentration. You've got to keep telling yourself not to throw it away, because conditions here are challenging, but that's where I wanted to just bring my experience of playing for so many years. You just don't want to give it that easily; try and stay as much as possible in the game, and we knew that the pitch was good, and we needed big runs from the top order, and that's exactly what happened. Again, that comes down to concentration. You've got to keep telling yourself not to throw it away, because conditions here are challenging, but that's where I wanted to just bring my experience of playing for so many years. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
'This is not cricket, this is only batting' - Gambhir after India's record ODI chase
India coach also felt that wickets offering so little for bowlers were
How India Tamed 406? Gill Reveals Numbers Behind Record Chase
India successfully chased down a formidable target of 406 runs against the West Indies in the second ODI, with Shubman Gill and Rohit Sharma's exceptional batting performances leading the team to a historic victory.
For TN vice-captain Andre, pressure is a privilege
Bundela, Lahiri, Doru Emerge As Applicants For BCCI Mens Junior Selection Panel
Harvinder Singh Sodhi: Domestic cricket stalwarts Devendra Bundela, Saurasish Lahiri, and Nikhil Doru are among the prominent former players in contention for spots on the BCCIs new five-member junior selection committee. Yes, the likes of Bundela, Lahiri and Doru have expressed interest in being the next junior selection panel members. The BCCI is in the final stages of shortlisting candidates to succeed the outgoing S Sharath-led panel and may make an official statement in October, said a source tracking the development to IANS on Wednesday. The Sharath-led panel, which took charge in September 2021, comprises Ranadeb Bose (East Zone), Harvinder Singh Sodhi (North Zone), Pathik Patel (West Zone), and Krishen Mohan (Central Zone). As previously reported by IANS, former India off-spinner Ramesh Powar and ex-Uttar Pradesh fast bowler Ashish Winston Zaidi had submitted applications for positions on the panel, for which the BCCI invited applications in August. It is also understood that ex-India pacers Praveen Kumar and Sudeep Tyagi, along with former Mumbai batter Manoj Joglekar, have also submitted their applications for the junior selection panel, while a word on who comes from South Zone is yet to be known. While there was initial interest surrounding Powar being handed the chief selector's role, the decision could ultimately boil down to international experience following Praveens entry. As per the BCCIs selection committee protocols, the candidate with the highest number of Test caps is generally appointed as the chairman of the panel. Powar represented India in two Tests and 31 ODIs, while Praveen featured in six Tests, 68 ODIs, and 16 T20Is. Powar was recently involved as a spin consultant with the Australia Under-19 team during their ODI series against India in Rajkot. The Sharath-led panel had recently selected the India U-23 squad for a game against the CK Nayudu Trophy winners Tamil Nadu, with the clash to happen at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai and shortlisted a provisional squad for the upcoming U-19 Asia Cup, to be played later this year. With the new selectors yet to be finalised, coaches from the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) have been busy monitoring the next set of future U19 stars. The national junior mens domestic calendar will kick off when the Vinoo Mankad Trophy begins on October 8. Meanwhile, India fast bowler Umesh Yadav will play for Punjab as a guest player in the ongoing domestic season, after previously getting his NoC from Vidarbha. A new chapter begins. Grateful to start the 202627 domestic season with Punjab Cricket Association. With the new selectors yet to be finalised, coaches from the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) have been busy monitoring the next set of future U19 stars. The national junior mens domestic calendar will kick off when the Vinoo Mankad Trophy begins on October 8. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
How Gill, Rohit Scripted ODI History In Guwahati
Shubman Gill's magnificent double century and Rohit Sharma's fluent hundred propelled India to their highest successful run chase in ODI history, chasing down 406 against West Indies by 8 wickets to seal the three-match series.
Gill and Rohit flip the script - 'After the powerplay, the pressure wasn't on us'
The India captain scored his second ODI double-century and shared a 255-run opening partnership with Rohit Sharma, who scored a 75-ball 101 himself
Multiple Records Tumble in Guwahati as India Scale 406 With Ease
India secured an unassailable 2-0 lead in the ODI series against West Indies, largely due to Shubman Gill's record-breaking fastest double century and Rohit Sharma's significant milestones, including his 35th hundred and reaching 12,000 ODI runs. The match also saw the West Indies post their highest-ever ODI total and became the third highest aggregating match in ODI history.
Rohit Sharma reveals Ravindra Jadeja's hilarious celebration advice for century against West Indies
Senior India cricketer Rohit Sharma smacked his 35th ODI century in the second ODI against West Indies at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati. He arrived to the series under tremendous pressure regarding his future...
Nigar Sultana To Lead Bangladesh Women In Historic Australia ODI Series
Nigar Sultana Joty: Bangladesh have announced a 16-member squad for their upcoming three-match women's ODI series against Australia, with regular captain Nigar Sultana Joty set to lead the side in what will be a historic tour for the team. Spinner Nahida Akter has been named vice-captain, while the squad retains much of the core group that represented Bangladesh at the Womens Asia Cup and the Asian Games in Japan earlier this month. The pace attack will be led by Marufa Akter, who has established herself as one of Bangladeshs key bowling options. Seventeen-year-old Habiba Islam Pinky has also been included among the pace bowlers. The squad features a blend of experience and emerging talent, with experienced batter Farzana Haque returning to the ODI setup. Murshida Khatun has also earned a recall after last representing Bangladesh in January 2025. Young all-rounder Disha Biswas, who has recently featured for the Bangladesh Emerging side, has been rewarded with a place in the senior squad. There are a few notable omissions from the group that travelled to the Asian Games. Top-order batter Juairiya Ferdous, experienced spinner Fahima Khatun and all-rounder Shorna Akter are among those not included in the squad for the Australia tour. The three-match series will be played at Allan Border Field in Brisbane, beginning on October 9, with the second ODI scheduled for October 11 and the final match on October 14. The series will also carry significance in the ICC Womens Championship, with Bangladesh currently occupying eighth place in the standings. The tour will also provide Bangladesh with an opportunity to test their skills in unfamiliar conditions against one of the leading teams in womens cricket. Bangladesh Squad: The series will also carry significance in the ICC Womens Championship, with Bangladesh currently occupying eighth place in the standings. The tour will also provide Bangladesh with an opportunity to test their skills in unfamiliar conditions against one of the leading teams in womens cricket. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
2nd ODI: Gills Unbeaten 223, Rohits Century Sets Up Indias Record Chase Of 406
Shubman Gill: Skippers usually ask for the heavy roller after enduring 50 overs of absolute leather-hunting in humid conditions as a matter of routine, but Shubman Gill asked for it and clearly knew what was coming. What followed over the next three-and-a-half hours at the ACA Stadium in Guwahati was an absolute, unmitigated carnage of historical proportions. Driven by a record-shattering unbeaten 223 off 133 balls by skipper Gill and a vintage 75-ball 101 from his opening partner Rohit Sharma, India pulled off their highest successful mens ODI run-chase by hunting down a monumental 406-run target set by the West Indies to seal an eight-wicket win with 39 balls to spare. It also marked the second-highest successful run-chase of all time in 50-over cricket, after South Africa hunted down 438 against Australia in 2006, as India made a daunting multi-hundred target look like effortless work. Coming into the chase requiring a steep 8.12 runs per over, the Indian dynamic duo extinguished the threat within the opening powerplay itself. Rohit and Gill launched a furious, synchronised assault of boundaries that left Shamar Joseph, Jayden Seales, and Alzarri Joseph utterly bewildered. India motored to its fifty in seven overs before sprinting to 100 inside 12 overs. Rohit got to his half-century off 32 balls, while Gill was even more ruthless after getting his fifty in 39 balls, he registered his hundred off just 62 deliveries. By the time India reached 200 in 21.1 overs, their fastest team double-hundred in 50-over cricket, the West Indies attack was visually demoralised. Keacy Carty dropping Rohit on 84 off wrist-spinner Vitel Lawes only compounded their misery. The masterclass opening stand finally came to an end at 255 runs, the highest opening partnership for India in an ODI chase, when Jayden Seales trapped Rohit LBW with an off-cutter, as Rohits stunning hundred also saw him cross the monumental milestone of 12,000 ODI runs. Virat Kohli made a brief, breezy 29 off 19 balls, including three fours and a six, before holing out to a brilliant boundary-line relay catch by Sherfane Rutherford off Shamar Joseph. But by then, India had reduced the remainder of a chase to a mere formality. He may not have hit the winning runs at the end, but this historic night unequivocally belonged to Gill, who played an absolute epic in Guwahati. Battling severe leg cramps in the extreme humidity during the closing stage of the chase, Gill continued to pull, drive, and loft with supreme elegance and disdain to hit 26 boundaries and eight sixes at a monstrous strike rate of 167.67. Gill reached his 150 off a staggering 89 balls before bringing up his double century off just 117 deliveries with a single off Lawes in the 39th over. In doing so, he broke Ishan Kishan's record (126 balls) for the fastest ODI double-century in world cricket. It was also Gills second career ODI double century, making him the only captain in cricket history to score double tons in both Tests and ODIs while leading the side. His unbeaten 223 also surpassed Glenn Maxwell's 201 not out against Afghanistan in 2023 to become the highest individual score in an ODI run-chase. Fittingly, Ruturaj Gaikwad provided calm support at the end with an unbeaten 31 off 37 balls and got the winning single to complete a legendary victory and spark wild celebrations in the Indian dressing room and across the stands. Earlier, the West Indies had posted a mammoth 405/7 after being sent in to bat, riding on sensational centuries from Amir Jangoo, captain Shai Hope and John Campbell. On any other day, a 400-plus total would have comfortably guaranteed victory. But on a humid night in Guwahati, Gill ensured the match would belong entirely to India. Brief scores: Earlier, the West Indies had posted a mammoth 405/7 after being sent in to bat, riding on sensational centuries from Amir Jangoo, captain Shai Hope and John Campbell. On any other day, a 400-plus total would have comfortably guaranteed victory. But on a humid night in Guwahati, Gill ensured the match would belong entirely to India. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Shubman Gill's Record Double Hundred Powers India To Their Highest Successful ODI Run Chase
India crushed the West Indies by eight wickets in the second match to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match ODI series.
Gill breaks Kishans record for fastest ODI double hundred
The Indian skipper surpassed teammate Ishan Kishan, who had taken 126 balls to score an ODI double century against Bangladesh in Chattogram in 2022
India have defeated West Indies by eight wickets in the second ODI at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati . Captain Shubman Gill won the toss and elected to field first and what followed was pure carnage by the batting unit of both sides. The pitch offered very little support for the bowlers, as five cricketers scored at least a century each, which is a record in ODI cricket. At the end of the day, India were asked to chase 406 runs, which they did with 39 balls remaining and with that, they sealed the series rather comfortably.
Carey, Marsh hit fifties as Australia post 322
Bosch takes four as South Africa limit the damage at the death
Gill Creates World Record, Blasts Fastest ODI Double Ton
India skipper Shubman Gill (117 balls) surpasses teammate Ishan Kishan's record (126 balls) for the fastest double hundred in ODI cricket.
Shubman Gill Scripts History With 117-Ball Double Century In Second ODI vs West Indies
Shubman Gill's knock came in the second match against the West Indies at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati.
India captain Shubman Gill etched his name in ODI history by becoming only the second cricketer to score two double centuries in the format. The 27-year-old had registered his maiden ODI double ton against New...
Irani Cup: We Are Ready To Go, Says JKCA As High-profile Cricket Returns To Srinagar After Decades
JKCA General Operations Manager Majid: The Sher-i-Kashmir Stadium, a venue that has witnessed both the highs and disruptions of cricket in the Valley, is set to turn a new page when it hosts Thursdays Irani Cup clash between Jammu and Kashmir and the Rest of India. The beautiful venue has been cleared to host the prestigious red-ball fixture, with the Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA) racing in time to complete the required arrangements for broadcasting, spectators and other match-day operations. For JKCA, preparing the stadium for a fixture of this stature meant creating facilities that were not previously available at the ground, particularly for live broadcasting. This ground was going to host a live match, so we did not have a broadcasting system in place. We have created a broadcasting system in record time. We have created towers and everything, and we have made some extra arrangements regarding the spectators and everything. So, we are ready to go, JKCA General Operations Manager Majid Dar told IANS. The preparations have added another chapter to the story of a stadium whose cricketing journey has been shaped by the changing circumstances of the Valley. Sher-i-Kashmir Stadium last hosted an international match in 1986, when India played Australia. In the years that followed, the stadium complex was occupied by the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) for nearly two decades, with dressing rooms being used for accommodation and storage and the indoor stadium serving as a battalion headquarters. Thursdays Irani Cup fixture therefore represents a significant occasion for Jammu and Kashmir cricket, particularly after the teams maiden Ranji Trophy triumph earlier this year. The excitement around the match has also been evident inside the stadium, with the JKCA completing both permanent and temporary arrangements required for the contest. We have made some temporary arrangements also. And we have made some arrangements regarding broadcasting and everything. Everything is in place, Dar said. The preparations were carried out in coordination with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), whose officials had conducted an inspection of the venue and provided the association with a detailed list of requirements. Basically, BCCI had done a recce earlier. They had made some checklists. So, when they made the checklists, they mentioned the broadcasting rooms, towers and everything. They were set in place, so we were able to fulfil those things in time, Dar said. The BCCI also remained involved throughout the process, guiding the local association on the requirements needed to stage the match. It was in line with the BCCI. Basically, they were helping us out, guiding us on what to do and what not to do from time to time. So, we were able to manage it, he added. With the infrastructure now ready, attention turns to the cricket itself. Jammu and Kashmir will take on the rest of India's side led by Rishabh Pant, with the visitors boasting several players with international experience and ambitions. Pant will be looking to make the most of his red-ball outing, while pacer Akash Deep returns to competitive cricket after a lengthy injury layoff. For J&K, the fixture offers another opportunity to showcase the talent that helped them win their maiden Ranji Trophy title. With the infrastructure now ready, attention turns to the cricket itself. Jammu and Kashmir will take on the rest of India's side led by Rishabh Pant, with the visitors boasting several players with international experience and ambitions. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
First-time ever! India vs West Indies 2nd ODI creates history with Rohit Sharma's century
India and the West Indies took on each other in the second ODI of the ongoing series. The two sides met at the Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati on September 30th. The clash saw the West...
Mohammad Rizwan Asked To Appear Before NCCIA In Lahore For Mobile Analysis
Rizwan's phone has been in the NCCIA custody since it was taken away from him by the Pakistan Cricket Board security official during the second Test at Lords in England last month.
Rohit Sharma Creates History Again, Becomes First Batter Ever To Reach Incredible ODI Feat
India's star opener Rohit Sharma added yet another monumental milestone to his white-ball legacy on Wednesday, becoming the first batter in One Day International (ODI) history to hit 200 sixes in a single country.
Irani Cup: After Stress Fracture Recovery, Akash Deep Raring To Hit The Ground Running
The Irani Cup: Akash Deep has spent more of the past seven months in gyms, physio rooms and walking on an anti-gravity treadmill than bowling his heart out on a cricket field. When he had his first look at Srinagar's Sher-i-Kashmir Stadium, surrounded by the Shankaracharya Temple, hills and chinar trees, this week for practice with the Rest of India team, it was a moment to savour. The Irani Cup clash, where Rishabh Pant-led Rest of India face Ranji Trophy champions Jammu and Kashmir from Thursday, is Akash Deeps first match since a stress fracture of the lower back kept him out of action. It's been great; it's my first-ever experience of being here. It's such a nice, clean, and peaceful place. Everything looks very wonderful. It feels really good to be back to playing cricket. There is a feeling of excitement to play this match soon. I told my physio that I played against Jammu and Kashmir 7-8 months ago, and now that I am back to playing cricket, I will be up against Jammu and Kashmir again, Akash told IANS in an exclusive chat on the eve of the clash. The troubled time for Akash Deep began in February, in the middle of Bengal's Ranji Trophy semi-final, ironically against Jammu and Kashmir, where he felt pain and tightness. A scan at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru confirmed an L5 stress fracture, and recovery was to be done without any surgical intervention. After a months rest, the exercises, minus the one for his back, began with light weights, and the weights increased slowly. Till the time he got his Return to Play certificate, Akash Deep was rarely alone. Mostly, our support staff, physios, trainers, and coaches, I would spend a lot of time with them more often. I would stay with them for 4-5 hours every day. They motivated me a lot and kept things simple, which helped me a lot. With every decision made for him by the CoE, who have lately got flak for heaps of injuries to players, Akash Deeps mind was free. Yes, absolutely. After such a big injury, you just have to wake up in the morning and report on time to be on the right track for recovery. After that, you don't have to think about anything much mentally. But physically, you have to give yourself there. But mentally, you don't have to think about any planning, or you don't have to think about what exercise to do, what rehab to do, when to bowl, and how much to bowl. You don't have to think about anything, and from that point of view, for an athlete, the CoE can only be a big blessing. Fellow fast bowlers Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya were also present to speak to Akash Deep. There was Jassi bhai, there was Hardik bhai, and they used to come for 2-4 days in between. Earlier, they also had such injuries, so how was their experience and how they overcame it - we used to discuss all this a little bit. He began bowling only in June with a few overs, before building up gradually to be at full tilt. Time away from the game was hard, but his positive mindset never allowed him to go into the negative space. I took it positively. I felt that after playing professional cricket continuously for 10-12 years, I felt like my body needed rest and time to work on other things, so that my professional career could be sustained for a longer period. I felt that I should work on small niggles I had and that I shouldn't ignore them, and this was my lesson from it. The rebuilding, he says, was more about awareness rather than technique. Technically, we can't do much because we have been playing for 10-12 years. Our body has gotten used to it. It's just that there are a few things to observe by yourself. To understand your body, I have worked on that. For example, when to put yourself in preparation for a match, then when to stop, and how much effort has to be put in, I was trying to observe myself in practice for all these things. By the time he passed his RTP and got the fitness certificate, Akash Deep was excited like a kid at a candy store to take the field again. I was feeling really good about being fit. But it also happens that when you are at one place for seven months, you get the sad feeling that it is time for me to leave now. At the same time, I was excited to play a few matches quickly and see how my body is reacting because all these things can be understood only by playing in a match. Long spells will be the real test for him in the autumn vibes of Srinagar. To put in long spells, the biggest preparation is in practice. Like how many long spells to put in practice, how much time to bowl, how many balls to put in - I did all those things in practice. When I play the match, I will be able to understand my body's condition in the match itself - how much time to put in, how much effort to put in for bowling overs. The mood in the Pant-led Rest of India camp, comprising other capped players Sarfaraz Khan, Manav Suthar and Saransh Jain, is pretty relaxed. Yes, it's very chill. The atmosphere of the Rest of India team is always chill, because the players come from different places and environments, so the atmosphere is always chill. Now that Akash Deeps time away from the game will end, eyes will be on how quickly he regains rhythm and picks scalps with the red ball, especially with India set to play two Tests in New Zealand in November, where he will look to add to the 28 scalps taken in ten games so far. Theres also a matter of selection for a shadow tour to be done by the A team, but for now, after having spent months adhering to a strictly monitored regimen, Akash Deeps focus is to bowl in such a way that people wont think that he was away from action. Nothing much will be on my mind. I will focus on what I have been doing for so many days, and just have to repeat the same thing. The endeavour is to make sure that the people who know me really well should feel that I am playing in such a manner that one shouldn't feel like I was out of action for seven months. Theres also a matter of selection for a shadow tour to be done by the A team, but for now, after having spent months adhering to a strictly monitored regimen, Akash Deeps focus is to bowl in such a way that people wont think that he was away from action. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Rohit Sharma has been subjected to immense media scrutiny since the ODI series against Australia in 2025. Many reports claimed that it could be his final assignment in international cricket, but the Mumbai batter has...
Matthews 118, Campbelle 96 power West Indies to 2-1 win over Zimbabwe
They added 160 in WI's total of 271, before Zimbabwe were bowled out for 180
Shadab Khan Poised For Pakistan T20 Captaincy
Experienced all-rounder Shadab Khan is expected to take over Pakistan's T20 captaincy from Salman Ali Agha, who faces removal from the shortest format squad. Major changes are anticipated in the Pakistan T20 team ahead of the upcoming series against Sri Lanka, with young players being prioritised and key bowlers like Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf potentially rested.
India-A in trouble as its top-order fails to get going
Brian Lara Left Behind, Shai Hope Joins Elite West Indies ODI Club
Some of Hope's best ODI cricket has come against India, especially on their home turf. In India, across 16 ODIs and 16 innings, Hope has made 857 runs at an average of 71.41 and a strike rate of over 76, including four centuries and three fifties, with the best score of 123*.
Cometh the hour, cometh the man. Star India batter Rohit Sharma stole the show in the second ODI against West Indies at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati. The hosts were put under pressure in the first innings, as the Shai Hope-led side posted 405 runs on the board, but Rohit launched a scathing attack on West Indies in the second innings, giving India a perfect start.
Rahul Dravid's Son Anvay Gets Big Karnataka Role After Heroics For India U-19
Promising Anvay Dravid, son of legendary Rahul Dravid, was on Wednesday appointed captain of the Karnataka team for the Vinoo Mankad Trophy.
200 and Counting: Kuldeep Joins Elite Indian Spin Quartet
Kuldeep Yadav became only the fourth Indian spinner to reach 200 ODI wickets, despite West Indies smashing 405/7 through centuries from Campbell, Hope and Jangoo.
Concerning Sign: Gautam Gambhir And Co. Sent Clear Message After West Indies Notch Record 405/7
The fans at Barsapara Stadium witnessed one of the most stunning ODI batting displays from the West Indies as, for the first time ever, three Caribbean batters scored centuries in a single ODI innings
DDCA Hosts MCC Workshop For Umpires Ahead Of New Laws Coming Into Effect
DDCA President Rohan Jaitley: The Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) hosted a special Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) Laws of Cricket workshop for its umpires on Wednesday, ahead of the new edition of the Laws coming into effect from October 1. The workshop, conducted by MCC, the custodians of the Laws of Cricket, was led by MCC Head of Cricket Fraser Stewart and Jonny Singer. It focused on the key changes introduced in the new edition, with participants also being taken through practical video examples and an interactive question-and-answer session. A key highlight of the programme was the launch of the MCC Laws of Cricket app in Hindi, aimed at making the Laws more accessible to the cricketing community across India. The app is available in multiple Indian languages, including Hindi, Urdu, Bengali and Kannada, among others, allowing officials, players, fans and viewers to better understand the updated Laws. Fraser Stewart, Head of Cricket, MCC, said the practical nature of the workshop allowed umpires to understand the changes and their application on the field. We are delighted to be in Delhi and to engage with the DDCAs umpires ahead of the new Laws coming into effect on October 1. The practical nature of the session allowed us to discuss the changes and how they will apply on the field, Stewart said. We are also very pleased to launch the MCC Laws of Cricket app in Hindi, helping make the Laws more widely available for everyone who follows and loves this sport deeply in India, he added. DDCA President Rohan Jaitley said the workshop would help umpires gain a clearer understanding of the changes and their practical application on the field. The Laws of Cricket form the foundation of how the game is played and officiated. As the new changes come into effect on October 1, it is important for our umpires to have a clear understanding of the changes and their practical application, Jaitley said. All of us at the DDCA are delighted to have hosted the MCC in Delhi and to have provided our umpires with the opportunity to interact directly with Fraser Stewart and Jonny Singer. The availability of the MCC Laws of Cricket app in Hindi is also a welcome step towards making the Laws more accessible to a wider cricketing community in the country, he added. The new edition includes tighter size and weight tolerances for cricket balls used in womens and junior cricket, while Type D laminated bats will be permitted in most adult or open-age cricket, subject to regulations of the relevant governing body. Among other changes, the final over of the day will be completed even if a wicket falls, provided playing conditions remain fit. The Laws also provide greater clarity on running, boundary catches, overthrows, dead ball situations and dismissals. DDCA Director Shyam Sharma said the workshop would help the Associations umpires enhance their understanding of the Laws and align their officiating with global standards. We are thankful to Rohan Jaitley, President, DDCA, for their support in bringing this MCC initiative to Delhi. Hosting the MCC team is extremely beneficial for our umpires as they get to enhance their understanding of the Laws and align with global standards, Sharma said. We will continue to take these initiatives further with ICC, BCCI and the other boards, in strengthening officiating standards in Delhi cricket, he added. We are thankful to Rohan Jaitley, President, DDCA, for their support in bringing this MCC initiative to Delhi. Hosting the MCC team is extremely beneficial for our umpires as they get to enhance their understanding of the Laws and align with global standards, Sharma said. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Shadab Khan Front-Runner To Replace Salman Ali Agha As Pakistan T20I Captain
Shadab has led the national T20 squad as a stand-in arrangement in the past while Farhan is presently in Japan for the Asian Games leading Pakistan.
The Indian team took on the West Indies in the second ODI of the ongoing series. The two sides met at the Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati on September 30, and the game began with the...
Unofficial Test: Australia A Spinners Trouble India A
Australia A, powered by Sam Harper's century and effective spin bowling from Todd Murphy and Corey Rocchiccioli, gained a significant advantage over India A on Day 2 of their second four-day match in Puducherry, leaving India A trailing by 236 runs.
Rishabh Pant Opens Up On Career Setbacks, Rehab Struggles And India's Selection Calls
Having missed out on the ongoing white-ball series against the West Indies, the game in Srinagar offers Pant an ideal platform to build rhythm ahead of the Ranji Trophy and India's upcoming Test assignment in New Zealand.
West Indies Achieve Major 1st With 3 Centuries In One Innings Against India
Centuries from John Campbell, Shai Hope and Amir Jangoo powered the West Indies to their first 400-plus total in the 50-over format, a mammoth 405 for seven against India in the second ODI
Uncapped Biswas, Habiba in Nigar Sultana-led Bangladesh squad for Australia ODIs
Nigar had stepped down from T20I captaincy after the Asian Games but the board remains confident in her leadership abilities
Irani Cup: Jammu And Kashmir Gear Up For Historic Clash Against Rishabh Pant-Led Rest Of India
Sher-i-Kashmir Stadium will form a beautiful backdrop as Ranji Trophy champions Jammu and Kashmir prepare for a historic Irani Cup encounter against a formidable Rishabh Pant-led Rest of India
Irani Cup | Dogra backs J&Ks pace stock in Nabis absence
Super 90 Season Four To Be Staged In Kenya From December 3 To 12
Jitendra Singh Gaur: The Super 90 League on Wednesday announced that its fourth season will be held in Nairobi, Kenya, from December 3 to December 12, 2026, marking the leagues debut in the country and bringing its unique 90-ball franchise cricket format to Kenyan audiences. The announcement sets the stage for 10 days of high-intensity cricket featuring six franchises and an international pool of players. The Season 4 draft features an exciting pool of cricketers from across the globe, representing India, South Africa, Australia, England, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Barbados, Jamaica, Guyana, Trinidad, Zimbabwe, Canada and the United States. The international composition of the draft pool reflects the leagues growing global appeal and its vision of bringing together recognised cricketing talent in a unique franchise-based format. The names of the players will be revealed at a later stage. Season 4 will feature six franchise teams competing across 18 matches under Super 90s distinctive 90-ball format. The competition is designed to deliver a compact and high-intensity cricketing experience, combining aggressive batting, strategic gameplay and entertainment, while creating a platform for players from different cricketing backgrounds to come together. Speaking about the upcoming season, Jitendra Singh Gaur, managing director, Super 90, said, The response to Super 90 Season 4 has been extremely encouraging, and bringing the league to Nairobi is an important milestone for us. The diversity of cricketing talent represented in the draft pool reflects the international character of Super 90. We are looking forward to creating a memorable experience for cricket fans in Kenya by bringing international names together with the countrys own cricketing talent. The fourth edition will also feature retired Kenyan cricketers in every franchise, providing former national players with an opportunity to return to competitive cricket and share the field with international cricketing names. Speaking about the League, Shivain Sharma, managing director, Super 90 said, The initiative is aimed at celebrating Kenyas cricketing heritage while giving local fans an opportunity to see their former stars in action alongside players from some of the worlds leading cricketing nations. The fourth edition will also feature retired Kenyan cricketers in every franchise, providing former national players with an opportunity to return to competitive cricket and share the field with international cricketing names. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
'Baramulla Express' Auqib Nabi Makes India ODI Debut Against West Indies
Jammu and Kashmir's pace sensation Auqib Nabi has made his India ODI debut against the West Indies in Guwahati. The Baramulla-born pacer, who played a key role in J&K's historic Ranji Trophy triumph and claimed 60 wickets in the 2025-26 season, became the third cricketer from J&K to represent India at the international level.
Auqib Nabi sets unwanted record on ODI debut against West Indies in Guwahati
After a long wait, Auqib Nabi finally made his international debut in the second ODI against West Indies at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati. The Kashmir pacer proved his worth in the last edition of the Ranji Trophy, claiming the most wickets and since then, he has been in the scheme of things as far as international cricket is concerned.
Srinagar in focus as J&K aims to set the tone against Rest of India
2nd ODI: West Indies Unleash Batting Carnage, Pile Up 405 Vs India
The West Indies cricket team achieved a historic milestone by scoring 405 for seven against India in the second ODI in Guwahati. Centuries from John Campbell, Shai Hope, and Amir Jangoo powered their innings, marking the first time three West Indies batters scored centuries in a single ODI. India's inexperienced pace attack struggled, while their spinners provided some resistance.
Rizwan instructed to appear before the NCCIA on October 2
Cricinfo understands that Rizwan intends to appear before the NCCIA, but will write to the agency, pressing them to reveal the charges, if any, against him.
Campbell, Hope, Jangoo centuries take West Indies to 405
Only once has a side ever lost after scoring 400, setting India needing 44 more than they have ever scored batting second
'Bat Dominance Has Gone Too Far': MCC Chief Explains Big New Cricket Law Changes
MCC Head of Cricket Fraser Stewart said on Wednesday, pointing to changes in the latest laws of the game aimed at rewarding the fielding side more.
2nd ODI: Nine Years Of First-class Cricket Gave Me The Foundation, Says Jangoo After Hitting 114
Amir Jangoo: Amir Jangoo's second ODI hundred came after a long wait and the West Indies left-hander said the years spent playing domestic cricket was the foundation behind him hitting 114, as the visitors posted a record 405/7 against India in the second match here on Wednesday. Jangoo, who walked in after John Campbell's dismissal for 101, went from 59 off 54 balls to reaching his second ODI century in just 70 balls. He eventually finished with 114 off 77 balls, his second ODI century laced with 13 fours and three sixes before being caught at backward point off Ravindra Jadeja. For me it's just hard work. There's a lot of lessons and failures in between there. As I said, I played nine years of first-class cricket before starting international cricket. So the foundation was there. So for me it was all about learning. As I told you this morning, it's all about learning as fast as possible. So it's all about enjoying international cricket now and just going out there and play free, said Jangoo in a mid-innings chat with the broadcasters. Asked on his batting approach against Kuldeep Yadav, whom he handled particularly well, Jangoo said, To be fair, we had our discussions. Well, first of all, that's a very big comparison (on comparing his spin play to the legendary Brian Lara). But, for me, I'm a pretty good player of spin, and the team believes in my ability. So when spinners were bowling, they always told me, Go out there, dominate, and we had our team discussions, and for me it was all about batting most of him and trying to bat him positively as well. So, to be fair, the wicket was a really good one as well and for me it was all about trying to play as straight as possible, trying to rotate strike and get that boundary whenever it was needed. Jangoo cut Kuldeep, Naman Dhir and Jadeja repeatedly through the off side, his stand of 182 runs with captain Shai Hope, who hit 104 off 94 balls, took the game away from India. The score of 405/7 is now the highest ODI total for the West Indies, an innings that featured three centuries. It's an amazing feeling. The boys went out there today with our game plan. We know where we went wrong in the first game, and luckily enough we executed. Credit has to go to John (Campbell) for that amazing start, and also Shai, who carried us on throughout the innings as well. Jangoo cut Kuldeep, Naman Dhir and Jadeja repeatedly through the off side, his stand of 182 runs with captain Shai Hope, who hit 104 off 94 balls, took the game away from India. The score of 405/7 is now the highest ODI total for the West Indies, an innings that featured three centuries. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
People Have To Wait: Rishabh Pant Breaks Silence On India White-Ball Snub
While Rishabh Pant continues to be a key figure in India's Test setup, he has largely been out of contention in the limited-overs formats, especially ODIs.
In the quest for longevity, Pant ready for ups and downs
Murphy, Australia A bowlers keep India A in check
India A are 122 for 5 at stumps and still 236 runs behind Australia A's 358
IND vs SL Semi-final, Mens Asian Games 2026 Prediction, Match Preview And Playing XI
IND vs SL Semi-final, Cricket Tips: Team India are just two wins away from securing the gold in the ongoing Asian Games 2026 men's cricket competition. They will be facing Sri Lanka in the semifinal of the tournament. This contest will be held at Korogi Sports Club on Thursday at 10 AM IST. These two sides made it to the semifinal, after their respective quarter-final matches were washed out. Shreyas Iyer is leading India's star-studded lineup, while Sahan Arachchige is leading the second-string Sri Lankan side. India will look to take down their neighbors and reach the final. IND vs SL: Match Details Date : October 01, 2026 (Thursday) Time : 10:00 AM IST Venue : Korogi Sports Park, Nisshin IND vs SL: Live Streaming Details The live action of the IND vs SL semifinal will be available online on the Sony Sports Networks for the Indian fans. The live stream of the game will be available on the Sony LIV app or website. IND vs SL: Head-to-Head in T20Is Total Matches : 33 India : 23 Sri Lanka: 9 No-result: 1 IND vs SL: Ground Pitch Report The wicket in Nisshin was already very slow and sluggish, and the rain in the last few days must have made the wicket even slower. The outfield might also be on the slower side, and spinners will love this deck. We might see a low-scoring thriller here. IND vs SL: Possible XIs India : Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (wk), Shreyas Iyer (c), Ishan Kishan, Tilak Varma, Shivam Dube, Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah Sri Lanka: Niroshan Dickwella (wk), Nuwanidu Fernando, Sahan Arachchige (c), Lasith Croospulle, Ashen Bandara, Chamika Karunaratne, Dushan Hemantha, Tharindu Ratnayake, Binura Fernando, Vijaykanth Viyaskanth, Nuwan Thushara IND vs SL: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Abhishek Sharma is currently scoring runs at a higher strike rate, and if he can play 20-22 balls, he will take India to a good position. For Sri Lanka, the role of Niroshan Dickwell will be important, who has good international experience. Probable Best Bowler Axar Patel and Vijaykanth Viyaskanth are two spinners who might get a good amount of purchase from this wicket. They will be the ones to watch out for. Today Match Prediction : India have a full-strength side, and they will be the favorite to win this game on Thursday. IND vs SL Semi final, Today Match IND vs SL, IND vs SL Prediction, IND vs SL Predicted XIs, Injury Update for India vs Sri Lanka 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.
Virat Kohli Climbs To No. 2 Spot In ODI Rankings. This Indian Tops List
Kohli's 55th ODI century, and 86th international hundred across formats, earned him a rating of 796 and lifted him one place in the rankings.
Irani Cup: 'Whatever is in front of me, I will give my best,' says Rishabh Pant
Digital Desk | Srinagar, Sep 30 (IANS) Unburdened by recent non-selection in India white-ball teams, Rest of India (RoI) skipper Rishabh Pant on Wednesday said his intent to make the most of every opportunity coming his way as he fine-tunes his red-ball rhythm ahead of the Irani Cup clash against Ranji Trophy champions Jammu and Kashmir starting on Thursday. Pant has been training relentlessly and has been at his jovial best at the Sher-i-Kashmir Stadium in the run-up to the high-profile clash. Having missed out on the ongoing white-ball series against the West Indies, the game in Srinagar offers Pant an ideal platform to build rhythm ahead of the Ranji Trophy and India's upcoming Test assignment in New Zealand. For me, it's very simple. Whatever is in front of me, I will give my best. That's how I play cricket, and I keep it very simple. So whatever opportunity I get, I try to make the best out of it. For me, every game is an opportunity. I want to give my best, and I keep it very simple, said Pant during the pre-match press conference in Srinagar. Returning to action after a rare three-week break following the 1-0 Test series win over Sri Lanka, Pant insisted he remains unburdened by selection chatter, especially with him now being reduced to a one-format player for India. I try to give my best every time I take on the field, and that has been the key for me over a period of time. Yes, there will be ups and downs. When you want to have an international career for 15-20 years, you have to go through all these things. So it's that kind of mindset, and it's very simple - have the right people to guide you and just keep giving your best each and every time you take on the field. Reflecting on how his perspective evolved during his prolonged 18-month rehabilitation following a severe life-threatening car crash in December 2022, Pant credited the arduous journey for teaching him to keep things simple. See, when you have gone through so much in your life, you understand, you know, keeping it simple is the key. Obviously, when you're playing for your country, working hard is not optional. You have to work hard, you have to be mentally strong, and you've got to keep on learning and keep on improving. And that's the mindset you want to keep. Especially when you're going through a long rehab, it's always frustrating. But developing that mindset [not overthinking] is obviously challenging, but at the same time, you know, if you're playing international cricket, you have to go through challenges, he added.
2027 ODI World Cup Countdown Begins: ICC To Announce Schedule On Thursday
The countdown to cricket's biggest event on African soil in 23 years will officially begin on Thursday when the International Cricket Council (ICC) unveils the schedule for the 2027 Men's ODI World Cup during a grand launch event in Cape Town on Thursday.
Vaishnavi's six-for puts India A in driver's seat against Australia A
Left-arm spinner's 6 for 52 bowled Australia A out for 176, before India A extended their lead to 322
Mohsin Naqvi's days as the president of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) are numbered. Naqvi became the president of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) on April 3, 2025
Shai Hope breaks Brian Lara's record with century vs India in second ODI in Guwahati
West Indies captain Shai Hope played a phenomenal knock in the second ODI against India at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati. Opener John Campbell set the tone for the day with a century of...
Markram-led South Africa make five changes and opt to bowl
Having already won the series, South Africa rested their key players, including Temba Bavuma, with an eye on the Test series
ICC To Unveil 2027 ODI WC Schedule On Thursday; Ticket Ballot To Open Up For Mega Event
The International Cricket Council: The countdown to crickets biggest event on African soil in 23 years will officially begin on Thursday when the International Cricket Council (ICC) unveils the schedule for the 2027 Men's ODI World Cup during a grand launch event in Cape Town on Thursday. Set to be broadcast live on JioHotstar and the Star Sports Network from 8:30 pm IST in India, the high-profile launch ceremony at the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (Zeitz MOCAA) will mark the exact one-year landmark for the 14-team mega event, which runs from October 2 to November 21, 2027, in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia. Alongside the schedule release, the ICC will also open the global ticket ballot, giving fans worldwide a fair opportunity to secure their tickets across 12 host venues hosting 57 matches. Ten of the 14 participating nations will have secured direct qualification based on the September 30 cut-off date. Hosts South Africa and Zimbabwe receive automatic entry, and are joined by top-ranked ODI nations India, Australia, England, New Zealand, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh. The remaining four slots will be decided through a multi-team global qualifier to be played early next year, with two-time champion West Indies set to feature in it and aim to qualify for the mega event. For Indian batting stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, the 2027 ODI World Cup represents a final opportunity to cap off stellar international careers with championship glory. Speaking to JioStar, Rohit recalled the overwhelming emotion of leading India to the 2024 T20 World Cup and expressed his deep craving to replicate that feeling on the 50-over stage. It'll be great to win the upcoming ODI World Cup. I wouldn't think about full circle and all that now. Winning a World Cup for India is a special feeling. I have experienced that twice in the T20 format. In 2007, I was just a young kid of 20 years. Of course, it's a big tournament; you've won a World Cup in your first year, it's great. Then we won the Champions Trophy in 2013, and after that there was a long period, almost for 11 years, where we couldn't win an ICC title. So that's why, when we won the T20 World Cup in 2024, there was a realisation of how important it was. So that feeling is still inside to a great extent. I know what winning a World Cup feels like. So that's why I want that feeling back. The fun we had, you cant describe what that feeling is, because you can't match that. That's why winning that World Cup is very important to me, because I want to have that feeling again, which we felt recently, Rohit said. Kohli, who lifted the 2011 ODI World Cup trophy early in his career at home, declared that his final World Cup appearance provides all the motivation he needs to leave everything on the field. I'm not in a place where I feel like, if it didn't happen earlier, I have to do it now. But for me, it's the last World Cup I'm going to play for India. And that is my motivation. Like, to leave everything out there. And of course, the goal is absolutely to win the World Cup. And whatever it takes, I'm absolutely ready. My goal is to win as many games as I can for the team, and my dream is to play a match-winning knock in the finals while chasing a score; that would be ideal. If it happens, great. If it doesn't happen and we win the World Cup, I'll be just as happy because, eventually, you understand that, as much as that competitive nature is there, it's the last time you're getting to play in a World Cup. So, winning that trophy is the most important thing, he stated. Meanwhile, the free ticket ballot will remain open from October 1 until November 21, 2026. Fans can request up to four tickets per match across all categories, with a randomised draw determining allocations wherever demand exceeds stadium capacity. If it doesn't happen and we win the World Cup, I'll be just as happy because, eventually, you understand that, as much as that competitive nature is there, it's the last time you're getting to play in a World Cup. So, winning that trophy is the most important thing, he stated. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Kohli Makes ODI Rankings Surge After West Indies Masterclass
Virat Kohli's unbeaten 139 against West Indies, his 55th ODI century, lifted him to second in the latest ICC rankings, behind India teammate Shubman Gill.
How Rain-Ravaged India Stay Alert Ahead of Sri Lanka Semifinal
Sanju Samson discusses how the Indian cricket team is maintaining focus and team spirit despite incessant rains disrupting their training and matches in Japan ahead of the Asia Games semifinal. He highlights the team's constant meetings and gym sessions to stay switched on and ready for the crucial match against Sri Lanka, while also acknowledging the depth of Indian cricket talent.
