Cricket

MCC issues plea for members to attend Women's T20 World Cup final

Club wary of repeat of 2017 scenario when empty seats in pavilion marred England's nine-run victory

Anderson applies winning touch as allround Shadab sets up Lancashire

Veteran delivers decisive penultimate over as Derbyshire are edged out by four runs

Willey, McSweeney lead romp as Northants overwhelm Gloucestershire

Stiff target of 185 is hunted down with 16 balls to spare thanks to brace of half-centuries

Coco Gauff survives tense tiebreak against Sierra to keep Wimbledon hopes alive

Wimbledon is the only major where the American has yet to go beyond the fourth round

Hain, Gleeson to the fore as Warwickshire make it three in a row

Sussex can't find an answer to trio of half-centuries as Gleeson stars with four wickets

Wimbledon 2026 | No chinks in Djokovics armour, rolls over Tsitsipas to reach third round

The seventh seed will next face 25th-seeded Frenchman Arthur Rinderknech as he looks to continue his bid for an eighth Wimbledon title

Former champion Krejcikova rallies past Andreeva into Wimbledon third round

Andreeva saved six match points in the decider, but was not able to stop Krejcikova from crossing the finish line and claim only her second victory over the youngster

1st T20I: Series Opener Between India And England Called Off After First Innings Due To Rain

First T20I: The first T20I between India and England was abandoned without a result on Wednesday night as heavy rain came pouring down before the home side could start its reply to the visitors' 189/7 in 20 overs at the Riverside Ground on Wednesday. The ground staff brought out the covers and applied them across the square as rain started soon around the time the players walked off the ground at the end of the 20th over of the Indian innings. The downpour became strong soon after and continued unabated as the players from both sides waited. They waited till 9 pm local time, the cut-off for a five-over game. The umpires finally decided that the match could not restart and called it off. The two captains walked out of their respective dressing rooms and shook hands before going back in. Earlier, thanks to halfcenturies from skipper Shreyas Iyer and Abhishek Sharma, along with a late surge from Shivam Dube, India overcame slight drizzle and a gloomy evening to post 189/7 in 20 overs. On a not-so-easy pitch, Iyer hit his first fifty as Indias T20I captain his knock of 68 came off 47 balls, laced with six fours and a six. Abhishek, meanwhile, hit 59 off 24 balls studded with six fours and four sixes. Dube applied the finishing touches by hitting 42 not out off just 21 balls, including two boundaries and three sixes. Sent in to bat, India slipped to 6/2 inside two overs. Sanju Samson fell cheaply again, caught at backward point off Saqib Mahmood, before Ishan Kishan was run out after a mixup with Abhishek for a duck. Abhishek then launched a blistering counterattack, racing to a 20ball fifty the fastest by an Indian batter in England with a flurry of pulls and lofted drives, before Sam Currans slower ball trapped him lbw in the eighth over, which also ended his 82-run stand with Shreyas. But by then, Abhishek had become the fastest batter to smash 100 sixes in T20Is (in 785 deliveries) and surpassed West Indies batter Evin Lewis, who had smashed hundred sixes in 789 deliveries in his career. Shreyas then combined with Tilak Varma for a 36run stand, while striking cleanly against pace and spin. Varmas dismissal, caught off a low full toss on Mahmoods bowling, brought Dube to the crease. Iyer reached his ninth T20I halfcentury from 38 balls, his slowest in the format, but accelerated with a six over extra cover and inventive strokes against Luke Wood and Mahmood, who later trapped him lbw. But by then, Abhishek had become the fastest batter to smash 100 sixes in T20Is (in 785 deliveries) and surpassed West Indies batter Evin Lewis, who had smashed hundred sixes in 789 deliveries in his career. Shreyas then combined with Tilak Varma for a 36run stand, while striking cleanly against pace and spin. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Curran accounted for Abhishek and ran out Axar Patel off the final ball as India closed on 189, which is above par at the venue. England may have a delayed start to the innings due to steady rain, after India blasted 54 runs in the last five overs. Article Source: IANS

'Not like I've forgotten how to bat' - Wolvaardt hopes to find her groove again

Obviously it's so recent, it's not like my batting has changed. It's probably just a bit of a mindset thing, she said

Redmayne completes the job as Surenkumar fells Essex

Target of 117 proves insufficient as Warwickshire romp to victory with four overs to spare

TG20 Season 1: Himateja, Sai Krishna Shine As Khammam Aces Down Nalgonda Knights

Sai Krishna Reddy: Anvita Khammam Aces rode on a breathtaking unbeaten 80 from skipper Himateja Kodimela and a fluent half-century from G. Sai Krishna Reddy to post a daunting 211/2 in their 20 overs. Ved Reddy and Wafi Kachchhi then led a disciplined bowling effort as the Aces defeated Anurag Nalgonda Knights by 34 runs in the Hyderabad Cricket Association's TG20 in Wednesday's second match. The win moves them back into the playoff spot, above EIPL & eleve Karimnagar Diamonds to fourth on the points table. Meanwhile, the Knights slip to third by virtue of a lower Net Run Rate than Ranga Reddy Risers. Himateja's unbeaten 80 moved him to second on the Orange Cap standings with 282 runs to his name, while 16-year-old Ved is now second on the Purple Cap standings, having scalped nine wickets. Aces made a solid start through Paras Raj and Wafi Kachchhi (14 off 19), helped by a wayward opening over to reach 51 without loss at the end of the powerplay. Paras led the charge with a flurry of boundaries and a six, while Wafi played the supporting role as the pair stitched together a brisk 53-run opening stand. Hyderabad E-Champions struck immediately after the Power-play as Divesh Singh dismissed Wafi, but Paras continued to anchor the innings alongside G. Sai Krishna Reddy. He added impetus with a six and a four off Varun Goud before disciplined bowling in the next two overs slowed the scoring, leaving the Aces at 76/1 after 10 overs. Aces shifted into top gear through Paras and Sai Krishna. The pair kept the scoreboard ticking before the former fell for a well-made knock of 46 runs in 39 balls after Aniketh Reddy struck in the 12th over. Himateja Kodimela then took charge, launching a six immediately after the wicket to ensure the momentum remained firmly with the Aces. With Sai Krishna providing the perfect foil, Himateja unleashed an attacking display in the death overs as the duo plundered boundaries and sixes at will. Their innings ensured that the Aces scored 135 runs in the second half of their innings, with Sai Krishna scoring a 29-ball 50 before Himateja completed his half-century in just 18 balls. The pair added quick runs against every bowler, taking 31 runs from the final two overs to propel the Aces to a formidable 211/2, with Himateja finishing with an unbeaten 80 in just 31 balls, including seven fours and five sixes, while Sai Krishna smashed 56 in just 32 balls. The Knights made a brisk start to the chase, with Jashwanth Mote (22 off 13) and Gaurav Reddy (54 off 35) putting on 45 runs in under four overs. Gaurav led the charge with two towering sixes off Mahesh Vipparla, while Jashwanth chipped in with a six and a boundary before Mahesh provided the breakthrough by dismissing him at the end of the fourth over. Nitish Reddy (17 off 14) joined Gaurav to keep the momentum going, adding useful runs as the Knights reached 76/1 at the end of the powerplay. However, Aces tightened their grip through disciplined bowling from Ved Reddy, who first restricted the scoring before dismissing the well-set Nitish in the 10th over. At the halfway mark, the Knights were well placed at 92/2, with Gaurav continuing to anchor the chase alongside skipper Rahul Buddhi (12 off 8). Knights' chase unravelled after the halfway mark despite being well placed at 98/2. Ved triggered the collapse by removing Gaurav and Divesh (0 off 1) in the same over, before Wafi tightened the screws with a brilliant spell that accounted for Rahul via a run-out, as well as Aniketh Reddy (1 off 2) and Varun Goud (5 off 8), reducing the Knights to 124/7 after 15 overs. Md Arfaz Ahmed (14 off 10) and Rakshann Readdi (10 off 5) briefly resisted before Wafi struck again to dismiss Arfaz. Harshwardhan Singh (37* off 24) then launched a late counterattack with an unbeaten cameo, smashing two sixes and four boundaries in the final three overs, but the effort came too late as the Knights finished on 177/8, falling 34 runs short of the target. Knights' chase unravelled after the halfway mark despite being well placed at 98/2. Ved triggered the collapse by removing Gaurav and Divesh (0 off 1) in the same over, before Wafi tightened the screws with a brilliant spell that accounted for Rahul via a run-out, as well as Aniketh Reddy (1 off 2) and Varun Goud (5 off 8), reducing the Knights to 124/7 after 15 overs. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Anvita Khammam Aces 211/2 in 20 overs (Himateja Kodimela 80*, G Sai Krishna Reddy 56*, Aniketh Reddy 1/36, Divesh Singh 1/23) bt Anurag Nalgonda Knights 177/8 in 20 overs (Gaurav Reddy 54, Harshwardhan Singh 37*, Ved Reddy 3/26, Wafi Kachchhi 3/35) by 34 runs. Article Source: IANS

Weerappuli spins a web as Lancashire come up Roses

Yorkshire undone by teenage legspinner as fiercest rivals land morale-boosting win

1st T20I: Shreyas And Abhishek Fifties, Dubes 42 Not Out Carry India To 189/7

Shreyas Iyer: Thanks to halfcenturies from skipper Shreyas Iyer and Abhishek Sharma, along with a late surge from Shivam Dube, India overcame slight drizzle and a gloomy evening to post 189/7 in 20 overs in the opening T20I against England at the Riverside Ground on Wednesday. On a not-so-easy pitch, Iyer hit his first fifty as Indias T20I captain his knock of 68 came off 47 balls, laced with six fours and a six. Abhishek, meanwhile, hit 59 off 24 balls studded with six fours and four sixes. Dube applied the finishing touches by hitting 42 not out off just 21 balls, including two boundaries and three sixes. Sent in to bat, India slipped to 6/2 inside two overs. Sanju Samson fell cheaply again, caught at backward point off Saqib Mahmood, before Ishan Kishan was run out after a mixup with Abhishek for a duck. Abhishek then launched a blistering counterattack, racing to a 20ball fifty the fastest by an Indian batter in England with a flurry of pulls and lofted drives, before Sam Currans slower ball trapped him lbw in the eighth over, which also ended his 82-run stand with Shreyas. But by then, Abhishek had become the fastest batter to smash 100 sixes in T20Is (in 785 deliveries) and surpassed West Indies batter Evin Lewis, who had smashed hundred sixes in 789 deliveries in his career. Shreyas then combined with Tilak Varma for a 36run stand, while striking cleanly against pace and spin. Varmas dismissal, caught off a low full toss on Mahmoods bowling, brought Dube to the crease. Iyer reached his ninth T20I halfcentury from 38 balls, his slowest in the format, but accelerated with a six over extra cover and inventive strokes against Luke Wood and Mahmood, who later trapped him lbw. Dube then took charge, clearing midwicket and square leg with powerful hitting, and finished unconquered. Englands spinners Adil Rashid and Liam Dawson struggled for control in the drizzle, while Mahmood impressed with three wickets. Curran accounted for Abhishek and ran out Axar Patel off the final ball as India closed on 189, which is above par at the venue. England may have a delayed start to the innings due to steady rain, after India blasted 54 runs in the last five overs. Dube then took charge, clearing midwicket and square leg with powerful hitting, and finished unconquered. Englands spinners Adil Rashid and Liam Dawson struggled for control in the drizzle, while Mahmood impressed with three wickets. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India 189/7 in 20 overs (Shreyas Iyer 68, Abhishek Sharma 59; Saqib Mahmood 3-33, Sam Curran 1-25) against England Article Source: IANS

Wimbledon 2026 | Sabalenka channels her inner Rocky to fend off Kessler challenge

With Wimbledon being the only major where she has yet to contest a final, Sabalenka will be hoping for another KO performance when she faces Latvia's Jelena Ostapenko for a place in the last 16

Wimbledon 2026 | Sinner stays clear of trouble against Borges to reach round three

Sinner dominated to rack up an Italian record 95th Grand Slam match win, moving ahead of Nicola Pietrangeli

Dont Think I Was Utilised Properly In Last Years Tests In England, Says Shardul Thakur

Mumbai Cricket Association: Indias seam bowling allrounder Shardul Thakur has said he was underutilised during last years AndersonTendulkar Trophy in England, adding that he remains determined to play international cricket again. Thakur, 34, appeared in the Tests in Leeds and Old Trafford, scoring 1, 4, and 41 runs while bowling just 27 overs across the two matches and taking two scalps. I 100 per cent desire to play for India again. At the back of my mind, it's always there. Even if you're dropped or discarded, I think hope is a very strong word. As long as hope is alive, everything is possible. It's very hard to comment on why I may have missed out on a few selections. But after the 202425 season, the kind of season I had, I think I could have played a few more games and literally made a difference. When I played in England, I don't think I was utilised properly. In batting, yes, it was my mistake that I played a loose shot in Leeds. But in Manchester, I batted beautifully, I would say, because it was overcast, the ball was swinging, and there was one length from where the ball was hardly bouncing. I survived that spell, and India still put up a very, very strong total in the first innings. Then the pitch became flat, and we were also able to save the game, Thakur, who captains Mumbai across formats, told reporters on the sidelines of a Mumbai Cricket Association 2026/27 season launch event on Wednesday. Thakur, who has featured in 13 Tests, 47 ODIs, and 25 T20Is, said he is still very much ready to play for India again whenever called up. So it's not that I didn't make any contribution when I last played for India. But yes, I think I deserved a few more opportunities. I would say it was more about being underbowled and being used in the wrong phases. There were some calculation errors, I would say. Hope is still alive. If, in the near future, they ever ask me to play for India again, I'll be ready. Playing for India is a dream everyone's dream. Even during my previous stints with the Indian team, there were a handful of games where I made an impact and literally won matches for the team. So, even in the near future, or whenever I make a comeback, I'm still willing to contribute as much as I can (both in red-ball and white-ball cricket). Thakur, who has featured in 13 Tests, 47 ODIs, and 25 T20Is, said he is still very much ready to play for India again whenever called up. So it's not that I didn't make any contribution when I last played for India. But yes, I think I deserved a few more opportunities. I would say it was more about being underbowled and being used in the wrong phases. There were some calculation errors, I would say. Hope is still alive. If, in the near future, they ever ask me to play for India again, I'll be ready. Also Read: Live Cricket Score When you start the season with a strong message, there is always a purpose to practise. If you are mentally switched on, you are looking forward to improving your fitness, sharpening your skills, and learning something new. Article Source: IANS

Sciver-Brunt and England medical team throw everything at recovery

The England captain embarked on a high-tech regimen of treatment in an effort to return for the knockouts

Brook Is The 'front-runner' For Test Captaincy After Stokes Retirement, Says Morgan

Harry Brook: Former England skipper Eoin Morgan has listed Harry Brook as the frontrunner to take over the Test captaincy following Ben Stokes retirement, adding that he would look to get a different white-ball skipper if the right-handed batter is handed the top role. Brook is currently Englands white-ball captain and was the vice-captain in Tests when the side lost the recent three-game series to New Zealand by 2-1. I think you can coach all three formats of the game. We've seen it with India, with Australia. The thing I don't like, though, is having one captain across all three formats - and that creates a problem for England. I think there's possibly only one candidate (for the Test job) in that changing room, and that's Brook - unless they go back to Joe Root. Brook is the front-runner for me, and I would look elsewhere for the white-ball captaincy. I think there are more options to give the white-ball captaincy within the side...candidates like Phil Salt, Sam Curran, and an outside pick like Will Jacks, said Morgan ahead of the broadcast of the first T20I between England and India at the Riverside Stadium. England fast bowler Mark Wood said he was proud of how Stokes was an asset for the side, both as a player and captain. I haven't spoken to him (Stokes) yet. Obviously, a lot has happened, so you let things settle down a bit. I'm just very proud of Ben, as a friend growing up here in Durham - we came through the academy together. The man that he is, I can't speak highly enough of him. You, as all ex-players, or players who play with him, and they can't believe how loyal he is, and how good he was to play with. England fast bowler Mark Wood said he was proud of how Stokes was an asset for the side, both as a player and captain. I haven't spoken to him (Stokes) yet. Obviously, a lot has happened, so you let things settle down a bit. I'm just very proud of Ben, as a friend growing up here in Durham - we came through the academy together. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I'd have given him a shot in (recent series in) Ireland, and even against England - unleash him early! Especially when he's in his sort of form, he's red hot - and he's got a damn smart cricketing brain. Article Source: IANS

India bat first with three spinners, keep Sooryavanshi waiting in first T20I against England

Meanwhile, England brought Saqib Mahmood and Luke Wood into their side, replacing Jofra Archer and Jamie Overton from the side they fielded in the T20 World Cup semi-final

1st T20I: Chakaravarthy Returns As India Elect To Bat First Against England

Riverside Ground: India have won the toss and elected to bat first against England in the T20I series opener at the Riverside Ground on Wednesday. India will be aiming to get a winning start in England after suffering a shocking 2-0 series loss to Ireland. After winning the toss, India captain Shreyas Iyer said they are going with three spinners, with wrist-spinner Varun Chakaravarthy returning after missing the matches against Ireland due to recovery from a foot injury. India are playing three spinners in Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi and Chakaravarthy, while fielding just two seamers in Harshit Rana and Arshdeep Singh with Shivam Dube being the sixth bowler. Ireland is history. Its a new series, five games, everything to play for. Certainly, this is a great opportunity for us. This is actually my second series as a captain. So, pretty much excited. We got what we wanted. We got a session of practice over here yesterday, pretty much acclimatized to the surroundings as well. So, looking forward for an exciting one. Its absolutely fine. To be honest, Ireland series is history. Weve got to learn a lot from that series. And coming over here, we know how England has been playing their cricket. So, definitely slightly upbeat, know their strengths and weaknesses, so looking forward to have a great one. On his assessment of the pitch, Iyer said, Theres pretty decent amount of grass on the wicket. We practiced yesterday as well on the same one. So, cant actually predict how the wickets going to play, but definitely the intent is going to be high. England skipper Harry Brook said he was happy with bowling first, as they switch from Test series defeat to New Zealand. The moods really good. Were really looking forward to this series starting against a very strong Indian side, and, its good to be back with the lads. Thats just part of cricket. Youve just got to get ready for the next series as quickly as you possibly can, and try and make it as easy as you can for yourself. Theres a lot of experienced players, and thats quite nice for me to be able to lean on them in the middle of the game as well. Having the likes of Jos Buttler and Phil Salt, Sam Curran out in the middle as well to lean on when I need some help, is really helpful. Playing XIs: Youve just got to get ready for the next series as quickly as you possibly can, and try and make it as easy as you can for yourself. Theres a lot of experienced players, and thats quite nice for me to be able to lean on them in the middle of the game as well. Having the likes of Jos Buttler and Phil Salt, Sam Curran out in the middle as well to lean on when I need some help, is really helpful. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India: Sanju Samson, Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan (wk), Shreyas Iyer (captain), Tilak Varma, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Harshit Rana, Ravi Bishnoi, Arshdeep Singh, and Varun Chakaravarthy Article Source: IANS

Womens T20 WC: Have Beaten England Twice In Knockouts, Not Foreign Territory For Us, Says Wolvaardt

T20 World Cup: South Africa captain Laura Wolvaardt said the side head into their Womens T20 World Cup semifinal against England, to be played in front of a packed crowd at The Oval on Thursday, buoyed by past knockout wins over the hosts, as they chase a third successive final appearance. We've been able to beat England twice in knockout phases in World Cups, so it's not foreign territory for us. We can beat anyone on the day. So, trying to think back to those tournaments, what we did well in those semifinals, what sort of mindset we were in. But I think this is a team that really is able to rise to the big occasions, so, hopefully everyone's at their best tomorrow, said Laura in the pre-match press conference on Wednesday. South Africa, runnersup in 2024 and 2023 editions, qualified as the secondplaced team from Group A, while England have dominated the competition with five straight wins. The Proteas batting faltered against Australia and looked shaky against Pakistan, but Tazmin Brits and Marizanne Kapp held firm in a crunch sixwicket win over India. I think our bowling has been pretty good. I think different phases and different games, but I think having Kapp and Shabnim up early in the powerplay have been a big boost for us. I think we had a number of games where even if they did get off to a decent start, we were able to bring it back nicely. South Africa, runnersup in 2024 and 2023 editions, qualified as the secondplaced team from Group A, while England have dominated the competition with five straight wins. The Proteas batting faltered against Australia and looked shaky against Pakistan, but Tazmin Brits and Marizanne Kapp held firm in a crunch sixwicket win over India. Also Read: Live Cricket Score She also stressed on the need to harness South Africas power hitters in the big clash. A big focus of ours is that power game. We have a lot of young talent that is just really good at it. Maybe we need to stack them throughout the innings so that we're able to keep going in all the different phases. Article Source: IANS

Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20: Bengaluru Blasters Edge Hubli Tigers By Two Runs To Strengthen Playoff Push

Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 Tournament: Rohan Patil and Praveen Dubey struck half-centuries while Nischith Rao bagged three wickets as Bengaluru Blasters withstood a spirited fightback from Hubli Tigers to register a thrilling two-run victory in the Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 Tournament in Hubballi on Wednesday. Chasing 204 for victory, Hubli Tigers were buoyed by crucial contributions from Aneeshwar Gautam (34 off 23), Shivkumar Rakshith (41 off 30), and a blistering 60 off just 22 balls from Manvanth Kumar. Abhinav Manohar also chipped in with 21 off 15 deliveries as the Tigers took the chase down to the final ball. Needing five runs off the last delivery, the Tigers eventually finished on 201/7 after the dismissals of Manohar and Manvanth at crucial stages halted their late charge. Nischith Rao (3/27) and Vidwath Kaverappa (2/55) shone with the ball for the Blasters. The victory was Bengaluru Blasters' sixth in seven matches, taking them to 12 points and strengthening their position at the top of the standings. Hubli Tigers, meanwhile, suffered their third defeat of the campaign. Earlier, Bengaluru Blasters posted 203/7 after half-centuries from Rohan Patil (64 off 38) and Praveen Dubey (51 off 28). The pair played key roles in building the innings after Rohan and Samit Dravid (32 off 23) had added 70 runs for the second wicket. Rohan then shared a valuable 51-run partnership with Praveen Dubey to keep the momentum going before Shivraj chipped in with an express knock of 23 runs in just seven balls towards the end of the innings. Vaibhav Sharma (3/38) and Abhishek Ahlawat (2/39) were the pick of the Hubli Tigers' bowling attack. The win continued Bengaluru Blasters' impressive run in the tournament after victories over Gulbarga Mystics, Shivamogga Yodhas, Coastal Kings Mangaluru (twice), and another win over Shivamogga Yodhas. Their only defeat so far came against the Mysore Warriors. Vaibhav Sharma (3/38) and Abhishek Ahlawat (2/39) were the pick of the Hubli Tigers' bowling attack. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Bengaluru Blasters 203/7 in 20 overs (Rohan Patil 64, Samit Dravid 32, Praveen Dubey 51; Vaibhav Sharma 3/38, Abhishek Ahlawat 2/39) beat Hubli Tigers 201/7 in 20 overs (Hardik Raj 25, Aneeshwar Gautam 34, Shivkumar Rakshith 41, Manvanth Kumar 60; Nischith Rao 3/27, Vidwath Kaverappa 2/55) by 2 runs. Article Source: IANS

Legendary WI Pacer Walsh Appointed As Zimbabwe Mens Bowling Coach

ZC Chairman Tavengwa Mukuhlani: Legendary West Indies fast bowler Courtney Walsh has been appointed as bowling coach of Zimbabwes senior mens team, said Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) on Wednesday. Walsh, who served as bowling consultant during the ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026 in India and Sri Lanka, where Zimbabwe reached the Super Eights after topping Group B, now takes charge of the role fulltime as part of the support staff, which has been retained. Walsh had worked as Bangladeshs bowling coach from September 2016 on a threeyear contract. He was elevated to interim head coach in February 2018 after Chandika Hathurusinghas resignation. In October 2020, he was named as head coach of the West Indies womens team, but his contract was not renewed after the 2023 T20 World Cup. ZC added that it endorsed the Cricket Committees recommendations under the chairmanship of Blessing Ngondo in retaining the senior mens team support staff led by head coach Justin Sammons. Sammons will continue to lead the senior mens setup, supported by Walsh, assistant coach (batting) Dion Ebrahim, fielding and lowerorder batting coach Stuart Matsikenyeri, strength and conditioning coach Curtly Diesel, team doctor Dr Solomon Madzogo, team manager Dilip Chouhan, logistics manager Lovemore Banda, and media manager Darlington Majonga. ZC also endorsed succession planning, with former Zimbabwe international Chamu Chibhabha set to understudy Chouhan in team management duties. It also confirmed a refreshed senior mens selection panel while David Mutendera is retained as convener, ex-international players Hamilton Masakadza and Christopher Mpofu have been added as selectors. Continuity was reaffirmed in the Under19 programme, with Elton Chigumbura retained as head coach. Former Zimbabwe allrounder Donald Tiripano has been promoted to assistant coach (bowling), joining batting coach Remembrance Nyathi, strength and conditioning coach Clemence Rizhibhowa, physiotherapist Munashe Dengu, and team manager Frank Mawoza. ZC also endorsed succession planning, with former Zimbabwe international Chamu Chibhabha set to understudy Chouhan in team management duties. It also confirmed a refreshed senior mens selection panel while David Mutendera is retained as convener, ex-international players Hamilton Masakadza and Christopher Mpofu have been added as selectors. Also Read: Live Cricket Score We believe they represent a strong blend of experience, expertise, continuity, and fresh perspectives that will help advance our strategic objectives across our national teams and player pathway structures, said ZC Chairman Tavengwa Mukuhlani. Article Source: IANS

TG20 Season 1: Abhirath's Ton Helps Hyderabad E-Champions Maintain Unbeaten Run To March Into Playoffs

Hyderabad Cricket Association: Skipper Abhirath Reddy and district player Ganesh Gadugu led the charge for Hyderabad E-Champions as they continued their unbeaten run with a six-wicket win against Warangal Warriors in the Hyderabad Cricket Association's TG20s first match on Wednesday. With this win, the E-Champions have qualified for the Playoffs. After narrowly missing out on a couple of occasions, Abhirath registered his maiden ton in the TG20. The Orange Cap holder continued to pile on the runs for his side with a stellar 101* off 43 balls, which included seven fours and nine sixes. District player Ganesh Gadugu also played his part, scoring 50 off 31 balls after the bowlers, led by Purple Cap holder Ajay Dev Goud (3/27), restricted the Warriors to 173/9. Opting to bat first, the Warriors made a watchful start before their openers unfurled a range of strokes. They piled up 64 runs in the first five overs to set the platform for their side. However, Ajay showed why hes on top of the wicket-takers list, as he sent back both openers in the final over of the powerplay. Harshit Choudhary (22 of 14) was the first to be dismissed, with Aman Rao Perala also falling after a quickfire 20-ball 45. The twin strikers wrestled back momentum for the E-Champions. Shanmukha Ashwin got the better of Murugan Abhishek (4 off 7) soon after, putting the Warriors further into trouble. Sunkari Dheeraj (18 off 16) and Rishiket Sisodia stitched together a 50-run stand to stabilise the innings, with the latter doing the heavy lifting. He found the odd boundary and rotated strike regularly to keep the scoreboard ticking with his partner. Unfortunately for the Warriors, Rishiket fell in an attempt to up the ante, with Pranav Varma getting the better of him in the 15th over, putting an end to his 32-ball 38. That triggered a series of wickets with the Warriors stumbling at the backend of the innings. Akhil Rathod bagged his first wicket to dismiss Sunkari, while Ajay continued his wicket-taking streak by dismissing Adi Mani Kiran (5 off 6). Dev Mehta also got rid of Bhavesh Seth (6 off 8) as the Warriors found themselves at 142/7. Shaunak Kulkarnis fiery 7-ball 22-run cameo powered his side to a strong finish before he fell to Abhirath in the penultimate over. In the end, the Warriors posted a total of 173/9 at the end of 20 overs. E-Champions laid down an early marker of intent at the beginning of their run chase, scoring 27 runs in the first couple of overs with their captain leading the charge. However, they found themselves in a spot of bother as the Warriors returned strongly to bag three wickets in the powerplay, achieving that feat for the first time in the tournament. Pallepati Kranthi struck a crucial double blow in the third over, dismissing Sai Vikas Reddy (10 off 7) and Ajay Goud (0 off 2). Anvith Reddy (4 off 2) was dismissed by Salman Khan in the following over as he pegged things back for the Warriors. With the game hanging in the balance, Abhirath and Ganesh Gadugu once again showed why theyre vital cogs of the E-Champions batting unit. They displayed immense maturity to keep the required run rate under control as they built a 77-run stand in which Ganesh was the aggressor. The district player smashed his second half-century of the tournament, reaching the milestone in 30 balls to put his side in cruise control. Shaunak broke the partnership by dismissing Ganesh in the 12th over, but the writing was on the wall by then. Abhirath effortlessly switched gears to notch up his fifty in 28 balls and unleashed an array of strokes to finish things off in a hurry. He concluded the run chase on a high, launching a towering six over long-off to amass his century and secure a comprehensive win for his side with 27 balls to spare. The district player smashed his second half-century of the tournament, reaching the milestone in 30 balls to put his side in cruise control. Shaunak broke the partnership by dismissing Ganesh in the 12th over, but the writing was on the wall by then. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Warangal Warriors 173/9 in 20 overs (Aman Rao Perala 45, Rishiket Sisodia 38, Ajay Dev Goud 3/27) lost to Hyderabad E-Champions 178/4 in 15.3 overs (Abhirath Reddy 101*, Ganesh Gadugu 50, Pallepati Kranthi 1/29) by six wickets Article Source: IANS

England's top three and SA quicks, both best in class, prepare for semi-final fight

Two teams with plenty of firepower and plenty of history come together at The Oval

Hridoy to lead Bangladesh in Zimbabwe T20Is; Saifuddin makes comeback

Litton Das, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taskin Ahmed and Hasan Mahmud will be playing in the Lanka Premier League, which overlaps with the T20I series

Doddapaneni Kalyan Krishna Appointed As Andhras Director Of Cricket Operations

ACA President Kesineni Sivanath: Former Andhra pacer Doddapaneni Kalyankrishna has been appointed as the states Director of Cricket Operations, said the Andhra Cricket Association (ACA) on Wednesday. Kalyan Krishna, who played 51 first-class games, 42 List A matches and 16 T20 games and picked 217 scalps overall, will be leading the charge of strengthening cricket operations and driving future growth in the states cricketing ecosystem. The appointment was confirmed by ACA at its Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Mangalagiri. The ACA looks forward to his visionary leadership in strengthening our cricket operations and driving sustainable future growth for the sport in the region, said the ACA in its statement. Speaking to IANS, Kalyan Krishna, who was in the now-defunct Deccan Chargers set-up in IPL 2008 and has been a regular broadcaster on Star Sports Telugu feed, thanked ACA President Kesineni Sivanath and Secretary Sana Sathish Babu for appointing him to the role. I am very grateful to the President and Secretary of the ACA for the faith they have shown in me in appointing me to this role. I was there in the Andhra team as a player and now I am back with the set-up in an off-field role. Its a dream for every player to give back to the game after the end of playing time and I am very fortunate to be in a position to do so now, he said. Speaking to IANS, Kalyan Krishna, who was in the now-defunct Deccan Chargers set-up in IPL 2008 and has been a regular broadcaster on Star Sports Telugu feed, thanked ACA President Kesineni Sivanath and Secretary Sana Sathish Babu for appointing him to the role. Also Read: Live Cricket Score But I am sure I will do full justice to it and will continue to expand the good work done by ACA so far in spreading the sports reach in the state in both mens and womens cricket and produce more players who can go on to represent India, he added. Article Source: IANS

Crocombe to join Surrey from 2027 as Sussex exodus continues

Highly-rated fast bowler featured in England's Test squad at The Oval last month

Women's T20 WC: England Handed Nat Sciver-Brunt Boost Ahead Of Semi-final Against South Africa

T20 World Cup: England cricket team has been handed a big boost ahead of their crucial Women's T20 World Cup semi-final clash against South Africa as their captain Nat Sciver-Brunt has been passed fit to return from injury for Thursday's match at Kennington Oval. Sciver-Brunt got retired hurt during England's clash against Ireland in Southampton. That was a recurrence of an injury she suffered while playing domestic cricket in late April, due to which the all-rounder was out of the crucial preparation series against India and New Zealand. Skipper played both warm-up games ahead of the tournament, scoring 3 against Australia and 57 against India before scores of 46 not out and 48 against Sri Lanka and Ireland respectively at the World Cup. We literally threw everything at it, I'm really happy with where I am at physically. Myself and the medical team are really happy with where we're at. Physically I'm able to take part in all of the game, so from that point of view I'm really happy, Sciver-Brunt said in the pre-match press conference at The Oval on Wednesday, confirming her return to the playing XI. England enters the semi-final with a perfect record, having won all five of their group matches. The return of captain Nat Sciver-Brunt makes an already strong team even better. They have posted scores of 164, 186, and 219 in the tournament, showcasing the depth of their batting lineup. We literally threw everything at it, I'm really happy with where I am at physically. Myself and the medical team are really happy with where we're at. Physically I'm able to take part in all of the game, so from that point of view I'm really happy, Sciver-Brunt said in the pre-match press conference at The Oval on Wednesday, confirming her return to the playing XI. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Sciver-Brunt's return, following a significant improvement in her calf injury after a positive MRI scan, gives England their strongest XI for the first time in three matches. Her presence also adds another quality seam-bowling option, restoring balance to the team. Article Source: IANS

Women's T20 WC: When And Where To Watch South Africa Vs England Semis Clash, Know All Details

T20 World Cup: South Africa aims to continue their impressive run as they face unbeaten hosts England in the second semi-final of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup at The Kennington Oval on Thursday. A spot in Sunday's final against Australia is on the line. The Proteas head into this knockout match with strong confidence after bouncing back from an early loss to Australia. They won four of their next five games. Their campaign peaked against India, where Marizanne Kapp delivered a standout performance, scoring an unbeaten 81 and taking 2/27 to help South Africa secure a place in the last four. In contrast, England has appeared to be the most well-rounded team in the tournament, winning all five of their group matches. The return of captain Nat Sciver-Brunt from injury provides a significant boost. Opener Danni Wyatt-Hodge has shone as the top batter with 282 runs in five innings at an average of 94, including an unbeaten 89 at The Oval. South Africa's hopes will once again rely heavily on Kapp, supported by experienced pace bowlers Shabnim Ismail and Ayabonga Khaka, along with left-arm spinner Nonkululeko Mlaba. Captain Laura Wolvaardt, who was out for a duck against Bangladesh in the final group match, will seek to lead strongly. England's batting depth has been a key factor in their success, achieving totals of 164, 186, and 219. Alice Capsey has contributed to explosive finishes, while Sophie Ecclestone has effectively controlled the middle overs with her reliable left-arm spin. The Oval has mostly favoured teams chasing during this tournament. Australia easily chased down the West Indies' 125 in the first semi-final at the same venue. The conditions provide early support for seamers, and evening dew may make bowling first a preferred choice. Though England will be the favourites to reach their first Women's T20 World Cup final since 2018, South Africa has already proven they can challenge the tournament's top teams. Another inspired performance from Kapp could lead the Proteas to a second consecutive global final. Match details: When: Thursday, July 2 at 7:00 PM IST Where: The Oval, London Where to watch: The second semifinal between South Africa and England will be broadcast on Star Sports Network and live-streamed on JioStar Squads: England: Nat Sciver-Brunt (c), Lauren Bell, Alice Capsey, Tilly Corteen-Coleman, Charlie Dean, Sophia Dunkley, Sophie Ecclestone, Lauren Filer, Dani Gibson, Amy Jones, Freya Kemp, Heather Knight, Linsey Smith, Issy Wong, Danni Wyatt-Hodge England: Also Read: Live Cricket Score Laura Wolvaardt (c), Tazmin Brits, Nadine de Klerk, Annerie Dercksen, Shabnim Ismail, Sinalo Jafta, Marizanne Kapp, Ayabonga Khaka, Sune Luus, Karabo Meso, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Kayla Reyneke, Tumi Sekhukhune, Chloe Tryon, Dane van Niekerk Article Source: IANS

Nat Sciver-Brunt passed fit for semi-final after calf injury recovery

Boost for England in crucial clash as captain prepares to return after three-match absence

Bulbulia eases to victory after Rowles, Mbatha star for South Africa U19s

Heavy defeat for hosts despite Ben Dawkins' 44, and contributions from Flintoff and Lumsden

Women's T20 WC: Unbeaten England Face Resurgent South Africa For A Place In Lord's Final

T20 World Cup: Unbeaten England take on a confident South Africa in the second semi-final of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup at The Kennington Oval, with the winner earning the right to face six-time champions Australia in Sunday's final at Lord's. Australia secured the first spot in the final with a convincing eight-wicket win over West Indies, successfully chasing 126 with 42 balls left. Now, England and South Africa are set to compete for the last spot in what promises to be a tight match in the knockout stage. England enters the semi-final with a perfect record, having won all five of their group matches. The return of captain Nat Sciver-Brunt makes an already strong team even better. They have posted scores of 164, 186, and 219 in the tournament, showcasing the depth of their batting lineup. South Africa, on the other hand, has bounced back impressively after losing their initial match to Australia. They have won four of their next five games. Their most significant performance came against India, where Marizanne Kapp delivered a standout performance. She scored an unbeaten 81 and took 2/27, leading her team to a memorable victory. England's greatest strength lies in their top order, led by the tournament's top run-scorer, Danni Wyatt-Hodge. The experienced opener has scored 282 runs in five innings at an average of 94. This includes an unbeaten 89 against New Zealand at The Oval, and she has already received three Player of the Match awards. Sciver-Brunts return, following a significant improvement in her calf injury after a positive MRI scan, gives England their strongest XI for the first time in three matches. Her presence also adds another quality seam-bowling option, restoring balance to the team. Alice Capsey has brought aggressive batting in the middle order, helping England score quickly. Meanwhile, world No.1 spinner Sophie Ecclestone continues to excel in the middle overs with her accuracy. Ecclestone achieved figures of 3/22 against Ireland and 2/23 against the West Indies, maintaining an excellent economy throughout the tournament. South Africas success has come from a disciplined bowling attack that includes Marizanne Kapp, Shabnim Ismail, Ayabonga Khaka, and Nonkululeko Mlaba. This quartet has consistently taken wickets throughout the tournament. Captain Laura Wolvaardt will be eager to make a mark after being dismissed on the first ball against Bangladesh in the final group match. Annerie Dercksens important 45 in that game showcased the depth in South Africas batting lineup. Kapp stands out as South Africas key player, excelling with both bat and ball. Her experience in high-pressure situations makes her a crucial asset for the team. The Oval has generally favoured teams chasing in this World Cup. Australia managed to chase down the West Indies' total comfortably on the same pitch, while both England and South Africa also had successful chases earlier in the tournament. Although the pitch initially showed a slight green tinge, it has remained good for batting overall. With an evening start and the possibility of dew, captains are likely to choose to bowl first if they win the toss. England are aiming for their first Women's T20 World Cup title since 2009, while South Africa hopes to reach another global final by defeating one of the tournament's favourites. With Australias spot already settled, only one challenge remains before Sundays final showdown at Lord's. Match details: When: Thursday, July 2 at 7:00 PM IST Where: The Oval, London Where to watch: The second semifinal between South Africa and England will be broadcast on Star Sports Network and live-streamed on JioStar Squads: England: Nat Sciver-Brunt (c), Lauren Bell, Alice Capsey, Tilly Corteen-Coleman, Charlie Dean, Sophia Dunkley, Sophie Ecclestone, Lauren Filer, Dani Gibson, Amy Jones, Freya Kemp, Heather Knight, Linsey Smith, Issy Wong, Danni Wyatt-Hodge England: Also Read: Live Cricket Score Laura Wolvaardt (c), Tazmin Brits, Nadine de Klerk, Annerie Dercksen, Shabnim Ismail, Sinalo Jafta, Marizanne Kapp, Ayabonga Khaka, Sune Luus, Karabo Meso, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Kayla Reyneke, Tumi Sekhukhune, Chloe Tryon, Dane van Niekerk Article Source: IANS

TG20: 'A Lot To Learn From Him,' Says Aaron George On Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's Rise

Ranga Reddy Risers: Aaron George has shared a dressing room with Vaibhav Sooryavanshi at various stages in the India U19 team, including in this years World Cup win in Zimbabwe and Namibia. Now, watching his former team-mate go from the age-group set-up to the senior India side currently on T20I tour of England has left a deep impression on George, whos turning out for Ranga Reddy Risers in the ongoing TG20 tournament. He's been doing a great job ever since he's been playing for the under-19 and now he's playing for the senior side. So it gives me a lot of joy personally to see my teammate rise to higher standards like that. Very happy with how he's doing and obviously a lot to learn from him. His clarity of thought, the way he swings his bat - there's a lot of takeaways and I'm very happy about seeing Vaibhav at the higher level, George said in an exclusive conversation with IANS. That instinct to learn from those around him has become something of a theme for George, who was quick to praise the Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA) for putting together a tournament that gives fringe and emerging cricketers a genuine stage to express themselves. It's been great and I think it's a great initiative that the Hyderabad Cricket Association has taken, giving a lot of exposure to young talents and also people who have not made very far in their career and are still fighting for a spot. So it's a tournament where there are a lot of diverse cricketers, a lot of different talents and it's great to have a platform like this at a young age, he said. George further pointed out the tournaments real worth is not just about the cricket, but about turning a group of wellknown players into functioning as a proper team. Oh, it's been very good. I think it's all about talking to new people, communicating with them, and understanding how all of us can be effective in a team environment. We've all done very well personally, obviously, to be playing this tournament. But how we come across each other as a team, how we can help our team go to greater heights - that is what our preparation was all about and it's been going great. On the tactical side, George is aware that the modern game places a premium on power-hitting, but he is clear that there is more than one route to being effective with the bat in T20s. As you can see, the game is always changing. The demands are going to be different in a few more years. So, as of now, the power aspect of the game is being given great light and all players have different ways of dealing with that. I am somebody who has used a lot of (on-ground shots) - I play a lot in the gap, or I run a lot during my batting. So depending on the requirement, it's a team sport and what the equation is, how many runs are required, at which over we make our decisions and move across. Its because there is not only one way out, there are different solutions for the same problem. So, we deal with whatever our strengths are, and how we can be effective in that situation with whatever we have got in our army, he added. A captain in nearly every age-group side he has represented, including leading Hyderabad to the Vinoo Mankad Trophy title after a 38-year wait, George has had to adjust to a different role in TG20, where the dressing room is populated by far more experienced campaigners, and he has embraced the change. Most of the teams that I've played in, I've always led. I've been the captain in almost every place I've played, or at least vice-captaincy per se. But when it comes to senior cricket over here, it's different to feel like a junior because everybody is older and they've played their share of cricket. So for me, it's about learning from them. Also, let it be a senior or junior, there's always something you can correct and there's always something you can learn from them. So, that was the approach I got into the tournament with and I'm liking every conversation I'm having with my seniors. It's really helping me understand the game better, and know how they think. Like I mentioned before, the diversity is a great part of this tournament, he said. George, who has recorded scores of 7, 27, 35 and 6 so far, also spoke of the freedom his coaching staff have given him to play his natural game, having worked with several of them outside the confines of the TG20. When it comes to our team, I've already worked with the coaches on different occasions outside of the TG20 tournament. They're all people who know my capability and what I can bring to the table and they have given me a free hand since the start. They've asked me to follow my instincts and bat the way I want to. Obviously, me batting the way I want to is going to give the team the best results when it works out. So I am clear about my role and there is good coordination among all the players and the coaches. George, who has recorded scores of 7, 27, 35 and 6 so far, also spoke of the freedom his coaching staff have given him to play his natural game, having worked with several of them outside the confines of the TG20. When it comes to our team, I've already worked with the coaches on different occasions outside of the TG20 tournament. They're all people who know my capability and what I can bring to the table and they have given me a free hand since the start. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Once I'm done with the tournament, I'm going to start working on, probably new shots or trying to get more range into my batting, more power, whatever it is, post the tournament. But as of now, I know what my strengths are and I'm going to stick to that preparation, he signed off. Article Source: IANS

Kishan replaces Abhishek as No. 1 T20I batter; Root slips to No. 3 among Test batters

Jasprit Bumrah became the No. 1 Test bowler after Matt Henry missed the Trent Bridge Test against England

Womens T20 WC: Shikha Pandey Predicts A Close Fight In SF2, Says England Might Just Pip South Africa

T20 World Cup: Former India pacer Shikha Pandey expects a tightly contested battle when England take on South Africa in the second semi-final of the ICC Womens T20 World Cup, saying both sides possess the quality and experience to thrive under knockout pressure. Assessing the contest ahead of the winner earning a place in the final against Australia, Shikha highlighted South Africas familiarity with English conditions but believes Englands batting depth could prove to be the decisive factor. Pandey began by explaining why South Africa remain one of the most dangerous teams in global tournaments, pointing to their temperament and experience of playing in English conditions. South Africa are ruthless when it comes to World Cups. They have a strong bowling attack and batters who can handle pressure. Many of their players have also played a lot of cricket in England. Marizanne Kapp herself has had about three to four seasons in the Hundred here on these surfaces. So they are quite well-drilled. They are fighters who don't give up easily, Shikha told JioStar. Despite acknowledging South Africa's strengths, Shikha believes England will enter the semifinal with a batting line-up that is stronger and more balanced than in previous years. But one thing I will say about England is that I have watched them for a long time, and I haven't seen their batting this organised and this deep. They have power, they have experience, and they have players who can finish games, she added. Despite acknowledging South Africa's strengths, Shikha believes England will enter the semifinal with a batting line-up that is stronger and more balanced than in previous years. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With Australia already through to the final after defeating the West Indies in the first semi-final, the spotlight now shifts to England and South Africa as they battle for the remaining place in the title decider. Article Source: IANS

ETPL: Ashwin joins Dublin Guardians as captain and mentor

Faf du Plessis, Donovan Ferreira, Mitchell Marsh, Steven Smith are among other direct acquisitions

Womens T20 WC: Mooney Hurts You In So Many Ways, Says Shikha On Australia's Winning Formula After SF Win

T20 World Cup: Former India pacer Shikha Pandey has credited Australia's tactical discipline and batting efficiency for their comprehensive eight-wicket victory over the West Indies in the ICC Women's T20 World Cup semi-final at The Oval. She reserved special praise for opener Beth Mooney, saying the left-hander's movement at the crease and ability to manipulate the field make her one of the most difficult batters to bowl to in the women's game. Analysing the contest after Australia sealed a place in the final, Shikha highlighted Beth Mooney's masterclass at the top of the order, questioned key tactical decisions made by the West Indies, and explained how the Caribbean side's batting unit failed to cope with Australia's relentless bowling attack. Beth Mooney hurts you in so many ways. She is quick between the wickets, but what stands out is how she creates angles. She is always moving around the crease, making it hard for bowlers to settle on a line. Bowlers have struggled to find a way to pin her down. She will dab one for a single, and then the next ball she moves across to the off stump and finds a way to hit you all around the ground. She scored 61 off 36, and it didn't feel like she was going at a crazy pace. That shows you the skill of a high-quality batter who always keeps the game moving. She is so experienced. Having her and the young guns like Georgia Voll and Phoebe Litchfield at the top is a perfect combination for Australia, Shikha told JioStar. Shikha also pointed to Australia's intelligent batting during the chase, highlighting Ashleigh Gardner's measured approach and the team's outstanding running between the wickets as decisive factors. Ashleigh Gardner played a smart innings. She found the gaps for boundaries and when the fielders were in place, she took quick singles. She didn't try to overhit. She just rotated the strike and kept the scoreboard moving. Australians are excellent at running between the wickets, and it was clearly visible. Their awareness in the middle is top class. They turned ones into twos and kept the pressure on the fielders. That kind of batting makes a huge difference in a chase, she added. While praising Australia's execution, Shikha felt West Indies contributed to their own downfall through tactical decisions that shifted momentum towards the defending champions. West Indies, on the other hand, made some tactical errors. Their bowling changes were slightly off. Giving Jahzara Claxton the sixth over was a mistake. She leaked 18 runs in that over, which gave Australia the momentum. In a match where every run counts, those extra runs in the powerplay proved costly, Shikha said. Shikha believed the West Indies batting line-up never managed to establish control in the contest after Australia exploited the helpful conditions with the new ball. West Indies were relying heavily on Hayley Matthews, their premier batter. But they didn't make it easy for her. Qiana Joseph struggled from the start and never found her rhythm. The shot Matthews played before her dismissal was more out of desperation to keep the scoreboard moving. Joseph's dismissal soon after added more pressure on the middle order. Australia's bowlers were outstanding. The Australians adapted quickly once they realised the pitch was offering seam movement. Shikha believed the West Indies batting line-up never managed to establish control in the contest after Australia exploited the helpful conditions with the new ball. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Australia chased down West Indies' modest target with seven overs to spare to book their place in the Women's T20 World Cup final for a record eighth time. Article Source: IANS

Womens T20 WC: Mooney Credits Australias Squad Depth For Marching Into Record Eighth Final

T20 World Cup: Australia wicketkeeper-batter Beth Mooney has attributed her side's run to the ICC Women's T20 World Cup final to consistent contributions from across the squad after the six-time champions defeated the West Indies by eight wickets in the semi-final at The Oval. Speaking after the victory, Mooney singled out the impact of Ashleigh Gardner, Georgia Wareham and Georgia Voll, explaining how Australia's depth, versatility and ability to produce match-winners at crucial moments have put the team within one victory of another world title, with either England or South Africa awaiting in Sunday's final at Lord's. Mooney pointed to Gardner's growing confidence, particularly after her recent performances with the bat, and said it translated into another influential outing with the ball and said that the all-rounder has repeatedly proven her value to the side over the years. She's been a critical player for us for a long period of time. She obviously batted beautifully against India at Lord's the other day. She gets a lot of confidence from that. And I think we saw that today with the ball. She bowled beautifully and took wickets at critical times. So we know the threat that she poses to other teams, and we're very lucky to have her at our disposal in our team, Mooney said post match. With Australia now one step away from another global title, Mooney stressed the importance of every member of the squad finding form at the business end of the tournament. Certainly going into the pointy end of the competition, it's always good to have all your players in good form, she said. Mooney also highlighted Wareham's impact, saying the all-rounder has developed into one of Australia's most complete cricketers after adapting to different roles within the team, and the qualities that make her such an influential player. Wolf (Wareham) has been unreal. Not too many cricketers float around the world stage having the skill set that she does and the nous of the game ... the calmness. So it's probably been a little bit of time in the making for Wolf. I think she's been given different roles along the way but really come into her own in that number six role with the bat especially, and also just nailing it with the ball, she added. Mooney believes Wareham's all-round abilities make her one of the standout players in the international game. She's the all-round packageWolfbat, ball, field, great temperament, great human. So another player that is probably the envy of world cricket, and she's in our team. So I'm very lucky that I get to have the best seat in the house, both behind the stumps when I'm keeping and obviously seeing her do her thing with the bat. So hopefully she's got one more very good game in her and can help us get on the right side of the result on Sunday, the wicketkeeper-batter expressed. At the top of the order, Mooney also credited Georgia Voll for giving Australia fast starts during the powerplay, allowing the batting unit to dictate the pace of the innings. Yeah, we've discussed that that's a pretty important phase of the game to try and attack, and obviously with Georgia Voll at the top of the order, it makes it pretty easy to do that, Mooney mentioned. Mooney explained that Australia's approach is built around maximising the fielding restrictions while relying on experience to make the right decisions under pressure. From a personal point of view, I've certainly got the control and the skills to be able to take the game on a little bit earlier and played a lot of cricket and have a lot of data behind me to back up the fact that I can make good decisions and know what I'm doing every now and then. It's not going to come off all the time, but I think that's the way forward in T20 cricket is to really attack the power play if you can and adjust where you need to along the way, she said. Mooney explained that Australia's approach is built around maximising the fielding restrictions while relying on experience to make the right decisions under pressure. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Australia comfortably chased down West Indies' 125/7 with seven overs to spare, despite Ellyse Perry retiring hurt as a precaution during the innings. Having enjoyed significant contributions from multiple players throughout the tournament, the Aussies will now look to carry that momentum into Sunday's final at Lord's as they chase a record-extending seventh ICC Women's T20 World Cup crown. Article Source: IANS

ICC Rankings: Kishan Dethrones Abhishek To Become No.1 T20I Batter; Head Rises To Top In Tests

ICC T20 World Cup: India wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan has replaced teammate Abhishek Sharma as the world's No.1 T20I batter in the latest ICC Player Rankings, ending the latter's nearly year-long reign at the top after his prolific run in the shortest format. In another major change, Australia's Travis Head climbed to the No.1 spot among Test batters for the first time in his career. Kishan attained a new career-best rating to move ahead of Abhishek after the latest ICC rankings update released on Wednesday, following India's 2-0 T20I series defeat to Ireland in Belfast. The left-handed batter's rise to the summit has been fuelled by his outstanding performances at the ICC T20 World Cup earlier this year, where he amassed 317 runs at a strike rate of almost 200. His campaign included a Player of the Match-winning knock against Pakistan in Colombo. Abhishek, who had occupied the No.1 spot for almost 12 months, now trails Kishan by just seven rating points. Kishan also joins an elite list featuring Virat Kohli and Suryakumar Yadav as only the fourth Indian men's batter to achieve the No.1 ranking in T20I cricket. Among other movers in the T20I batting rankings, Ireland captain Lorcan Tucker jumped four places to equal 77th, while Ross Adair climbed six spots to 84th after impressive performances against India. Ireland seamer Matthew Humphreys moved up one place to 25th in the T20I bowling rankings after claiming four wickets in the series, earning a career-best rating. In the T20I all-rounders' rankings, India's Shivam Dube rose three places to seventh, while Ireland's Gareth Delany and Harry Tector climbed to 24th and 38th respectively. There were significant changes in the ICC Test rankings as well, with Australia's Travis Head becoming the world's No.1 Test batter for the first time in his career. Head replaced England's Harry Brook at the top after Brook and Joe Root endured modest returns in the Nottingham Test against New Zealand. Brook slipped to second while Root dropped two places to third India pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah also regained sole possession of the No.1 ranking among Test bowlers after New Zealand fast bowler Matt Henry slipped to second. New Zealand's victory over England at Trent Bridge also resulted in major gains for several of their batters. Rachin Ravindra climbed two places to seventh, Daryl Mitchell advanced five spots to 11th, Devon Conway surged 14 places to equal 15th, and Tom Latham rose 12 places to equal 31st in the Test batting rankings. India pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah also regained sole possession of the No.1 ranking among Test bowlers after New Zealand fast bowler Matt Henry slipped to second. Also Read: Live Cricket Score West Indies fast bowlers Shamar Joseph and Kemar Roach were also rewarded for their performances in the victory over Sri Lanka in Antigua. Joseph climbed nine places to equal 14th in the Test bowling rankings, while Roach rose four spots to 17th. Article Source: IANS

Fisher Earns Maiden Call-up As NZ Name 16-man ODI Squad For WI Tour

Sir Richard Hadlee Medal: New Zealand have unveiled a 16-member squad for their five-match ODI series against the West Indies, with Northern Districts fast bowler Matthew Fisher receiving his first-ever call-up in the format and Jacob Duffy returning to international cricket. The series, which begins on July 11 in Guyana before concluding in Barbados on July 21, marks the BlackCaps' first ODI assignment in the Caribbean since their historic series triumph there in 2022. Fisher's inclusion is one of the major talking points of the squad announcement. The 26-year-old pace bowler has impressed in domestic one-day cricket, collecting 43 wickets in 25 List A matches at an average of 26. While he has already represented New Zealand in a Test against Zimbabwe in August 2025 and a T20I against Bangladesh in April 2026, the upcoming tour will offer him his first opportunity in ODI cricket. Another notable return is that of Jacob Duffy, who rejoins the national setup after missing the recent Test series in England following the birth of his first child. The reigning Sir Richard Hadlee Medal winner last represented New Zealand during the ICC Men's T20 World Cup final in March. Mitchell Santner will continue to lead the side in white-ball cricket, with Tom Latham serving as the wicketkeeper. The pace attack also features Kristian Clarke, Ben Sears and Nathan Smith, while the spin department includes Michael Bracewell, Jayden Lennox and Dean Foxcroft. Head coach Rob Walter welcomed both Fisher and Duffy into the squad, highlighting the qualities they bring ahead of the Caribbean tour. Its great to have Jacob and Matt joining the group and I know theyll bring a lot of energy and excitement, he said. Walter believes Fisher has earned the opportunity after consistently improving his all-round skillset. Its a nice opportunity to introduce Matt to the ODI group for the first time. He bowls with good pace and has been working hard on his variations to ensure he can bowl at different stages of the innings, he added. The New Zealand coach also praised Duffy's impact across formats and expressed confidence that the experienced seamer will strengthen the squad as he said, Jacob has been a stand-out for us in all formats for the past couple of years. His skills and experience will be a great addition to our squad and I know hes looking forward to representing New Zealand again. Jayden Lennox has retained his place after impressing during his debut international series against India earlier this year and will embark on his third overseas white-ball tour. Experienced campaigners Michael Bracewell and Mark Chapman further bolster the group, bringing nearly 250 international appearances between them. Several regulars are unavailable for the tour. Kyle Jamieson, Matt Henry and Will O'Rourke have been rested following a demanding first half of the 2026 season, while Blair Tickner will undergo scheduled ankle surgery. Devon Conway has been granted leave after the birth of his second child during the England Test series, and Rachin Ravindra will miss the tour as part of a pre-agreed arrangement with New Zealand Cricket to participate in Major League Cricket. Jayden Lennox has retained his place after impressing during his debut international series against India earlier this year and will embark on his third overseas white-ball tour. Experienced campaigners Michael Bracewell and Mark Chapman further bolster the group, bringing nearly 250 international appearances between them. Also Read: Live Cricket Score New Zealand ODI squad: Mitchell Santner (captain), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Kristian Clarke, Jacob Duffy, Matthew Fisher, Dean Foxcroft, Mitch Hay, Nick Kelly, Tom Latham, Jayden Lennox, Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Ben Sears, Nathan Smith and Will Young. Article Source: IANS

I Want To Still Play For WI, No Doubt: Hayley Matthews Reaffirms Commitment After T20 WC Exit

T20 World Cup: West Indies captain Hayley Matthews has dismissed any speculation over her international future following her sides exit from the ICC Womens T20 World Cup, insisting she remains committed to representing the Caribbean nation. Speaking after West Indies eight-wicket semi-final defeat to Australia at The Oval, Matthews reflected on her motivation to continue playing, backed senior teammates Stafanie Taylor and Deandra Dottin to remain involved, and assessed why the team fell short of reaching the final. Addressing questions about whether the tournament could mark the end of her international career, Matthews made it clear that her desire to wear West Indies colours remains unchanged. I want to still play for West Indies, there's no doubt about that. I always feel like West Indies has given me the opportunity to represent myself, to be a part of franchise cricket. And it might be the most stressful thing and probably one of the harder jobs around, but it's where the passion comes from, Matthews said during the post-match presentation The all-rounder also pointed to the responsibility she feels as one of the leading figures in Caribbean women's cricket, saying that her influence extends beyond her on-field performances. I certainly feel personally that I have a real opportunity to not only represent myself but to make a difference. I've seen so many young girls in the Caribbean already probably want to play cricket or take up cricket because of me, and knowing that I have that power and I guess that influence in a country and in a region where women's cricket and women's sports on a whole probably isn't represented massively, hopefully if I could just inspire a few young ladies or a few more young ladies to take up the game, she added. Matthews also indicated that experienced campaigners Stafanie Taylor and Deandra Dottin remain motivated to continue contributing to the national side, adding that the emergence of younger players has strengthened the atmosphere within the squad. I haven't necessarily heard any of (Stafanie or Deandra) talking about retirement yet, thankfully. I think there's still a lot of passion from them to play. I think what's most important for them is just a healthy team environment, and, I think right now the passion that we have within the group has driven a lot of them, Matthews stated. She continued by explaining why the senior players continue to find purpose within the setup. I think the fresh faces that we have within the young girls and the way that they've come into the team and have exhibited the want to learn definitely makes them feel like they can play a massive role, like it has made me. And hopefully that combination of the young new players alongside Stef and Deandra and Afy (Fletcher) can keep them driven to understand that their role is so much bigger than just going out and batting and bowling as well, she said. Reflecting on the campaign itself, Matthews admitted that West Indies struggled to produce enough match-winning individual performances throughout the tournament, despite advancing to the knockout stage. The Caribbean side reached the semi-finals before being eliminated by Australia after finishing the group stage with defeats against England and Ireland. I think the fresh faces that we have within the young girls and the way that they've come into the team and have exhibited the want to learn definitely makes them feel like they can play a massive role, like it has made me. And hopefully that combination of the young new players alongside Stef and Deandra and Afy (Fletcher) can keep them driven to understand that their role is so much bigger than just going out and batting and bowling as well, she said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Matthews concluded that the inability to produce decisive individual displays consistently proved costly in the shortest format, saying, And in T20 cricket, you always need someone stepping up and putting down good performances. And I think that's probably what we lack, not only today but the entire tournament. Article Source: IANS

Indian Lifting 2011 WC Trophy Inspired My India Dream, Reveals Shedge

Civil Service Cricket Club: Suryansh Shedge has shared how India's 2011 World Cup triumph sparked his ambition to represent the country, saying that he cried watching India win and in that specific moment he decided to start working towards that dream of representing India on the biggest stage. Shedge was handed his maiden India cap in the second T20I against Ireland at the Civil Service Cricket Club in Stormont on Sunday after he was named the replacement for all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy in the squads for the T20I series against Ireland and England. Speaking about his journey after earning national selection, Shedge looked back on the moment that ignited his dream, revealing that India's 2011 World Cup victory left a lasting impact on him. The first time I really cried watching cricket was when India won the 2011 World Cup. That night, watching the Indian team lift the trophy, something changed inside me. I knew that this is what I want to do, represent my country on the biggest stage. From that day, I started working towards that dream. I knew it wouldn't be easy, but I was ready to give it everything. When I received the Indian jersey and wore it for the first time, I can't describe that feeling. All those early mornings, the hard work, the sacrifices, it all felt worth it. I have worked for this since childhood. Wearing that jersey is not just a dream come true; it's the start of a new journey, Shedge told JioStar. also recalled one of the first congratulatory calls he received after his selection became official, describing it as an emotional conversation with left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh. When my selection was confirmed, I received a video call from Arshdeep paaji. He congratulated me and shared his own experience of getting selected. I spoke to him for a while. It was a very emotional moment. It was really hard to process. Even now, it hasn't fully sunk in yet. It still feels like a dream, Shedge added. Shedge also highlighted the influence of captain Shreyas Iyer, explaining that their interactions extend well beyond match days and often revolve around understanding different aspects of the game. I talk a lot with Shreyas Iyer bhai. We spend a lot of time together off the field as well. We are constantly talking about cricket, about batting, bowling, match situations, and how to handle pressure. During the IPL season, we watch other games together and discuss what we would do in those situations. Those conversations are always healthy and keep going. It helps me learn a lot from his experience, he stated. Shedge also highlighted the influence of captain Shreyas Iyer, explaining that their interactions extend well beyond match days and often revolve around understanding different aspects of the game. Also Read: Live Cricket Score His mentality is incredible. He genuinely enjoys batting and never overcomplicates things. He has such strong belief in his ability that even if he gets out for a duck, he doesn't let it affect him. He backs himself to score a hundred off 30 balls in the next game. That kind of self-belief is rare. He doesn't carry any baggage from the previous ball or the previous match. He lives in the moment and plays with complete freedom. That is what makes him so dangerous. He is the perfect example of being instinctive and playing without fear, Shedge mentioned. Article Source: IANS

Can NZ manage their pace riches with India and Australia looming?

Head selector Gavin Larsen discusses the issue of workload management ahead of a bumper Test summer

Zimbabwe Thrash Bangladesh by an Innings and 85 Runs in One-Off Test as Muzarabani Shines

Blessing Muzarabani took four wickets and captain Richard Ngarava three for Zimbabwe as they bowled Bangladesh out for 185 on Tuesday to win a one-off Test in Harare. The tourists had fared even in worse intheir first innings, making a meagre 140. An Innocent Kaia century steered Zimbabwe to 410 in reply. Zimbabwe won the match by an innings and 85 runs to achieve a second victory in their last three Tests against the south Asians. Player of the match Kaia said: This victory is a reward for hard work, with a strong emphasis on fitness. It was a tough wicket to play on. Credit to the Bangladesh bowlers as I think they did well. But it was my game. Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto said: In the first innings, we did not bat properly. That cost us the match. Our bowling was also not good enough. We came to Zimbabwe having played some good cricket in a recent series win over Pakistan. But we did not adapt to different conditions here. Bangladesh, 40-1 overnight and 230 runs behind, were no match for the Zimbabwe bowlers on the third day with only Mushfiqur Rahim (34) and Shanto (30) offering sustained resistance. Opener Mahmudul Hasan Joy (22) was the first Bangladeshi to fall on Tuesday, caught at gully by Brian Bennett off a Muzarabani delivery. The dismissal of Mominul Haque soon after left the visitors on 48-3 before Rahim and Shanto added 61 runs in the only fruitful Bangladesh partnership. Brief scores Bangladesh 140 in 47.2 overs and 185 in 45 overs (Mushfiqur Rahim 34, Najmul Hossain Shanto 30; B. Muzarabani 4-65, R. Ngarava 3-32) v Zimbabwe 410 in 107.2 overs Also Read: Live Cricket Score Result: Zimbabwe won by innings and 85 runs

Fisher in line for ODI debut as NZ return to full strength for WI tour

Regular captain Mitchell Santner returns alongside Daryl Mitchell, Michael Bracewell and Jacob Duffy

Chandigarh Cricketer Selected In Indian Women's Squad For 2026 Asian Games

Union Territory Cricket Association: In yet another proud moment for the Union Territory Cricket Association (UTCA), Chandigarh cricketer Nandini Sharma has been selected in the Indian Women's squad for the 2026 Asian Games which is scheduled to be held in Aichi-Nagoya in Japan in September. The Indian women's team will be entering in the competition as the defending champions after winning the gold at the previous Asian Games in Hangzhou in China held from September 23 to October 8, 2023. Nandini has been rewarded for her impressive performances across various domestic and national competitions. Earlier this year, she represented India A in the ACC Rising Star Women's Asia Cup, gaining valuable international exposure. Having represented both Punjab and UTCA in BCCI-organised tournaments at the Under-19, Under-23 and Senior levels, Nandini has consistently excelled in major domestic competitions, including the Senior Women's Inter-Zonal tournaments, Women's T20 Challenger Trophy and Senior Women's One-Day Challenger Trophy. Her association with Delhi Capitals Women in the Women's Premier League (WPL) also played a significant role in her development at the highest level. Having represented both Punjab and UTCA in BCCI-organised tournaments at the Under-19, Under-23 and Senior levels, Nandini has consistently excelled in major domestic competitions, including the Senior Women's Inter-Zonal tournaments, Women's T20 Challenger Trophy and Senior Women's One-Day Challenger Trophy. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Expressing his delight, UTCA President Saraansh Tandon said, Nandini's selection in the Indian team for the Asian Games is a matter of immense pride for Chandigarh and UTCA. She has earned this opportunity through her dedication, discipline and consistent performances over the years. We are confident that she will make a significant contribution to the Indian team and continue to inspire young cricketers from the region. Article Source: IANS

Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20: Mysore Warriors Edge Coastal Kings Mangaluru In Last-ball Thriller

Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20: Mysore Warriors held their nerve in a thrilling finish to defeat Coastal Kings Mangaluru by two wickets off the final ball in the Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 tournament in Hubballi on Tuesday. Needing seven runs from the final over, tail-end batter and wicketkeeper Yuvraj Arora produced a sensational finish, smashing an unbeaten 19 off just nine balls, including two sixes and a four, to guide the Warriors to only their second victory in seven matches. The win, while keeping them at the bottom of the table, took them to four points. Meanwhile, Coastal Kings remain second in the standings with seven points, three behind leaders Kalyani Bengaluru Blasters. Chasing a revised target of 162 in a rain-curtailed 19-over contest, the Warriors appeared firmly in control at 111 for three, thanks to a fluent 78-run partnership off just 42 balls between L R Chethan and Ritesh Bhatkal. Chethan struck a brisk 37 off 20 balls, with five fours and a six, before his dismissal triggered a dramatic collapse. The Warriors lost three wickets in the space of five deliveries, allowing Coastal Kings to claw their way back into the contest. Bhatkal, however, held one end together with a superb 66 off 39 balls, studded with eight fours and three sixes. After reaching his half-century, he immediately shifted gears by striking four successive boundaries to keep the chase on course. Veteran leg-spinner Shreyas Gopal nearly turned the game on its head with a superb spell of 4 for 37, including two wickets in successive deliveries during the 17th over. His efforts, which also earned him the tournaments Purple Cap with 11 wickets, ultimately proved insufficient as Arora kept his composure to complete a memorable chase. Earlier, Coastal Kings posted a competitive total, built around captain Karun Nairs fluent 48 off 27 balls, which included seven fours and a six. Nair dominated a 47-run second-wicket partnership with opener Nikin Jose after the early dismissal of Aadharsh SJ, scoring 36 of those runs as Coastal Kings looked set for a much bigger total. However, left-arm seamer Lavish Kaushal changed the complexion of the innings with a decisive spell. After conceding a boundary to Nair in the ninth over, Kaushal responded immediately by dismissing the Coastal Kings captain off the very next delivery before removing Suraj Ahuja to leave the innings wobbling at 78 for four. Kaushal returned later to claim the prized wicket of the well-set Siddharth Akhil, who made 28 off 24 balls, finishing with impressive figures of 3 for 32. Shreyas Gopal contributed a useful 22 before he was clean bowled by Manoj Bhandage as Coastal Kings finished with a total that ultimately fell just short. Kaushal returned later to claim the prized wicket of the well-set Siddharth Akhil, who made 28 off 24 balls, finishing with impressive figures of 3 for 32. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Coastal Kings Mangaluru 161 all out in 19 overs (Karun Nair 48, Siddharth Akhil 28, Shreyas Gopal 22; Lavish Kaushal 3-32) lost to Mysore Warriors 167/8 in 18.5 overs (Ritesh Bhatkal 66, L R Chethan 37, Yuvraj Arora 19 not out; Shreyas Gopal 4-37) by two wickets. Article Source: IANS

Zverev wins in four sets to reach Wimbledon round two

The German, who was beaten in round one last year, won 6-4, 6-7 (8/10), 7-6 (7/5), 7-6 (7/0) on Centre Court and will next face France's Valentin Royer

ENG vs IND 1st T20I Prediction, Match Preview And Playing XI

ENG vs IND 1st T20I , Cricket Tips :After a disappointing time in Ireland, India have reached England for the second leg of the UK tour. Shreyas Iyer took over the captaincy from Suryakumar Yadav and suffered a series whitewash against Ireland. Can they show some form against England? The first T20I between England and India will be held at Riverside Ground, Chester-le-Street, on Wednesday at 10 PM IST. Shreyas Iyer will be eager to get a win as captain. England have been playing continuous cricket. They lost the third test against New Zealand on Monday, and after just one day they will be back in action against India. ENG vs IND: Match Details Date : July 01, 2026 (Wednesday) Time : 10:00 PM IST Venue : Riverside Ground, Chester-le-Street ENG vs IND: Live Streaming Details The live action of the first T20I will be available on the Sony Sports networks in India. Fans can watch the live stream of the game on the Jio Hotstar app or website. ENG vs IND: Head-to-Head in T20I Total Matches: 30 India : 18 England : 12 No-result : 00 ENG vs IND: Ground Pitch Report Riverside Ground has a balanced wicket. It has good assistance for the fast bowlers with the new ball. The bounce and pace in the wicket are good, and batters will find it a little challenged. The toss will be important, as the chasing team will feel comfortable. ENG vs IND: Possible XIs England : Phil Salt, Jos Buttler (wk), Harry Brook , Jacob Bethell, Tom Banton, Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Jofra Archer, Luke Wood, Saqib Mahmood, Adil Rashid India : Abhishek Sharma, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer (c), Tilak Varma, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Prince Yadav ENG vs IND: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Abhishek Sharma looked comfortable in Ireland but couldn't get going in the second game. He has good numbers against England and will be key. For England, Phil Salt likes playing against India and has a great record against India. Probable Best Bowler Arshdeep Singh has done well against England, and he has dismissed Buttler and Salt more often than not. His opening spell will be key. For England, Adil Rashid is the trump card against the fragile Indian middle order. Today Match Prediction : England have a good number at home, and the way India struggled in Ireland, England will start this game as favorites. ENG vs IND Match 1st T20, Today Match ENG vs IND, ENG vs IND Prediction, ENG vs IND Predicted XIs, Injury Update for England vs India Match Also Read: Live Cricket Score Disclaimer : The prediction or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.

Walter hails NZ's 'pure grit and determination' to get the job done

The NZ head coach lauds the contributions of Latham, Blundell and his bowling attack that dug deep following injuries

Ngarava: 'I walked into this Test match thinking about making history'

The left-arm quick captained Zimbabwe to their biggest Test win - by an innings and 85 runs against Bangladesh

Women's T20 WC: Molineux Hails Australia's Clinical Display After Crushing WI To Reach Eighth Final

T20 World Cup: Australia captain Sophie Molineux praised her team's composure and all-round performance after the six-time champions stormed into their eighth ICC Women's T20 World Cup final with a commanding eight-wicket win over West Indies at The Oval on Tuesday. Australia once again underlined why they remain the benchmark in women's cricket, restricting West Indies to 125/7 before chasing down the target with 42 balls to spare. Beth Mooney (61 not out) and Ashleigh Gardner (35 not out) combined for an unbroken stand of 84 for the third wicket to see the chase through. Earlier, Molineux, Gardner, and Georgia Wareham claimed two wickets apiece to set up the crushing win. Reflecting on Australias unbeaten run to the final, Molineux said the team had focused on enjoying the tournament, rather than looking too far ahead. Umm, you just have to ride it in the T20 World Cups. It's full of momentum and swings. I have really enjoyed it. The group has really enjoyed it. That's probably the biggest thing for us. We have helped and stopped ourselves from thinking too far ahead, and now we can think about the final, which is pretty cool, she said. The Australian captain also explained her decision to persist with the seamers during the powerplay, a move that eventually paid dividends after Hayley Matthews and Qiana Joseph made a steady start. Kimmy (Kim Garth) shapes the ball beautifully both ways and bowls beautifully in the Power-play. Lucy did a really good job as well. I just thought it was the best matchup between those two (Matthews & Joseph). I thought we bowled really well. Hayley and Joseph tried to go hard at us, but we managed to hold our nerve, which was pretty cool, Molineux said. Australia never allowed the modest target to become complicated despite early wickets, with Mooney and Gardner ensuring there were no late nerves. No. We just wanted to get it done as quickly as possible. Moons and Ash were clinical. Volly played a good hand to get us away and just calmed our nerves in the change room. It was really good to see, she said. There was a brief concern when Ellyse Perry walked off during the chase with quad awareness, but Molineux played down fears over the veteran all-rounder's availability for Sunday's final. Yeah, bit of that again (precaution). It was just quad awareness. Sounds like she will be more than okay to go on Sunday, she said. There was a brief concern when Ellyse Perry walked off during the chase with quad awareness, but Molineux played down fears over the veteran all-rounder's availability for Sunday's final. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Sleep (laughs). I am looking forward to a good night of sleep tonight. We will make sure that we celebrate what's been a pretty cool two weeks for the girls. We will make sure we do that. We will rest and recover for a little bit and then build up without thinking too much. We will play the game over and over in our heads. We will make the most of the week and ensure we enjoy every part of it, she added. Article Source: IANS

Women's T20 WC: Skipper Matthews Says WI 'can Still Hold Heads High' Despite Semis Defeat To Australia

Skipper Hayley Matthews: West Indies captain Hayley Matthews admitted her side never produced their best cricket during the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 but insisted there were enough positives to build on after Australia outclassed them by eight wickets in the first semi-final at The Oval on Tuesday. Chasing just 126, Australia rode on an unbeaten 61 from Beth Mooney and 35 not out from Ashleigh Gardner to cruise home with 42 balls to spare, reaching their eighth Women's T20 World Cup final. The defending champions earlier restricted West Indies to 125/7 with skipper Sophie Molineux, Ashleigh Gardner, and Georgia Wareham picking up two wickets each. Reflecting on the defeat, Matthews felt it was a combination of an off day and an inconsistent tournament for the Caribbean side. Maybe a bit of both. We didn't have our best game, nor did we play to our potential for the entire tournament. Our great game could have been far better than that. We couldn't put an entire game throughout the tournament, Matthews said. West Indies were given an early scare even before the first ball was bowled when star all-rounder Deandra Dottin had to be escorted off the field shortly after the national anthems following a medical emergency. Matthews said the incident had a big emotional effect on the squad. I think it was a bit scary for some of us. She's a massive player for us. To see her pass that like that after the anthem, it was scary. Just a medical emergency. Nice to see her get back and throw a few punches, which shows a lot about her character, she said. Matthews herself made a fluent 30 during a 47-run opening partnership, but West Indies collapsed from 47/0 to 83/6, leaving Dottin's unbeaten 26 off 16 balls to help them post a competitive-looking total. The skipper admitted Australia squeezed them from the outset and that the uncertainty surrounding Dottin's availability also influenced their batting plans. I wanted to get off to a good start. Australia put us under pressure in the first six overs. We weren't sure whether she (Dottin) was going to bat. So, we wanted to take it deep. It was hard for me to assess. We wanted to get the run rate up, Matthews explained. The skipper admitted Australia squeezed them from the outset and that the uncertainty surrounding Dottin's availability also influenced their batting plans. Also Read: Live Cricket Score As a group, we can still hold our heads high. Aaliyah Alleyne and Stafanie Taylor were good. Even Chinnele Henry, after getting out of the injury. When you speak of the West Indies team, you take only a few names. We didn't have any super stand-up performances from anyone. Everyone had to chip in. To get to this stage, it was good. We have players who play different roles, and we will only get better, she said. Article Source: IANS

Jofra Archer Sits Out As England Announce Playing XI For T20I Opener Against India

T20 World Cup: England captain Harry Brook reaffirmed his commitment to international cricket after the hosts announced their playing XI for the opening T20I against India at Chester-Le-Street in Durham on Wednesday. England have made two changes to the team that lost to India in the semi-finals of the 2026 T20 World Cup. Fast bowler Saqib Mahmood replaces Jamie Overton, and Luke Wood comes in for Jofra Archer. Archer and fellow pacer Josh Tongue are both rested after playing in England's recent Test series against New Zealand. Brook will lead England in what could be one of his biggest challenges yet. After guiding the team to the World Cup semi-finals, the 26-year-old is also a strong candidate to be England's next Test captain. Before the series opener, Brook emphasised that representing England is his only priority. This is why he has opted out of most franchise leagues. I've committed completely to England cricket. I've said that I don't want to play any franchise cricket except for the Hundred, Brook stated. Everything I do is to play cricket for England. Whatever I do on and off the field is to perform as well as I can for England. That's why I don't play in the IPL, PSL, or any other franchise competitions. Brook believes that skipping franchise tournaments allows him valuable time to prepare physically for the demands of playing all three formats. The fact that I don't play franchise cricket means there are times in my calendar when I'm not playing. I'd focus on my fitness and get ready to play all three formats, which has been my dream since I was a child. The right-hander also downplayed any speculation around England's future Test captaincy. If I am or am not the captain for England in Test cricket, I'd be happy just to still be playing for England. Brook believes that skipping franchise tournaments allows him valuable time to prepare physically for the demands of playing all three formats. The fact that I don't play franchise cricket means there are times in my calendar when I'm not playing. I'd focus on my fitness and get ready to play all three formats, which has been my dream since I was a child. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Phil Salt, Jos Buttler, Harry Brook (captain), Jacob Bethell, Tom Banton, Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Liam Dawson, Saqib Mahmood, Adil Rashid, Luke Wood. Article Source: IANS

Brook: Test captaincy would be 'great honour', as focus turns to India T20I

White-ball captain was given 100% backing by Ben Stokes to take over the red-ball role

Women's T20 WC: Mooney's Unbeaten 61 And Gardner's All-round Show Guide Australia To Eighth Final

T20 World Cup: Beth Mooney produced another masterclass in an ICC knockout match while Ashleigh Gardner capped an outstanding all-round performance as six-time champions Australia crushed West Indies by eight wickets with 42 balls to spare in the first semifinal of the Women's T20 World Cup at The Oval on Tuesday, booking their place in the tournament final for the eighth time. Australia's chase of 126 runs finished with seven overs to spare, marking the biggest victory by balls remaining in the ICC Women's T20 World Cup knockout history for targets over 100. The previous record was 29 balls remaining, set by Australia against England in the 2014 and 2018 finals. Mooney stayed unbeaten at 61 off 36 balls, achieving the fourth-highest individual score by an Australian in a Women's T20 World Cup knockout match. Only her own 78 against India in the 2020 final, Alyssa Healy's 75 against India in the 2020 final, and her 74 against South Africa in the 2023 final rank higher. Earlier, Australia won the toss and chose to field in the important semi-final. Even before the match began, West Indies faced a setback when star all-rounder Deandra Dottin was taken to the medical room shortly after the national anthems. The West Indies head coach confirmed during the innings break that Dottin experienced a minor medical issue. West Indies started steadily, with captain Hayley Matthews leading the effort. She looked in good form and hit some impressive boundaries, while Qiana Joseph had trouble rotating the strike at the other end. As dot balls piled up, Australia found the breakthrough they needed when Georgia Wareham took a wicket with her first delivery, getting Matthews out for 30 off 28 balls and ending the 47-run opening partnership. Joseph's tough innings ended when she scored 16 off 22 balls. The innings quickly fell apart as West Indies went from 47/1 to 83/6, with Australia's disciplined bowling taking charge. Shemaine Campbelle tried to rebuild with 22 off 25 balls, but wickets kept falling around her. A vital 42-run partnership for the seventh wicket between Jannillea Glasgow, who scored 15, and the returning Dottin, who finished not out on 26 off just 16 balls, lifted West Indies to 125/7 after 20 overs. However, this total seemed low against Australia's strong batting lineup. Australia began their chase aggressively. Georgia Voll scored regularly until Chinelle Henry dismissed her for 16 off 11 balls, while Phoebe Litchfield managed just 4 before getting out cheaply. From that point on, Mooney took control. The left-hander kept the scoreboard moving with sharp shot selection, reaching a fantastic half-century off just 29 deliveries, ensuring Australia remained in command throughout the chase. There was a minor injury concern in the seventh over when Ellyse Perry left the field with a quad issue for assessment. Australia hopes the experienced all-rounder recovers in time for Sundays final. Any worries with the batting soon faded as Mooney and Gardner formed a strong partnership. Gardner, who had earlier excelled with the ball, contributed an unbeaten 35, while Mooney remained not out on 61. The pair added an unbroken 84-run partnership for the third wicket, leading Australia to a confident eight-wicket victory and another appearance in the Womens T20 World Cup final. Earlier, Gardner also shone with the ball, finishing with figures of 2/13. Captain Sophie Molineux took 2/30, Georgia Wareham had 2/17, and Annabel Sutherland contributed with 1/26, as Australia delivered another strong all-around performance that highlighted why they are a top team in women's cricket. Any worries with the batting soon faded as Mooney and Gardner formed a strong partnership. Gardner, who had earlier excelled with the ball, contributed an unbeaten 35, while Mooney remained not out on 61. The pair added an unbroken 84-run partnership for the third wicket, leading Australia to a confident eight-wicket victory and another appearance in the Womens T20 World Cup final. Also Read: Live Cricket Score West Indies 125/7 in 20 overs (Hayley Matthews 30, Deandra Dottin 26; Ashleigh Gardner 2-13, Georgia Wareham 2-17) lost to Australia 127/2 in 13 overs (Beth Mooney 61 not out, Ashleigh Gardner 35 not out; Chinelle Henry 1-20) by eight wickets. Article Source: IANS

1st T20I: Shreyas Keeps Cards Close On Sooryavanshi Debut, Says India 'depressed' After Ireland Loss

T20 World Cup: India captain Shreyas Iyer refused to reveal whether teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi will make his international debut in the opening T20I against England at Durham on Wednesday, but backed the 15-year-old to shine whenever his opportunity comes. Speaking before the first T20I at Chester-le-Street, Shreyas mentioned that India were keeping their team combination under wraps. You never know what is going to happen, he said in the pre-match press conference on Tuesday. Our hands are tied right now in terms of what we will do. This is private. Its something we discuss within the team. We can't reveal our combination to the opponents. Everyone on the team has performed. It's not just one person. We need to build confidence and provide chances for each player so that everyone feels good going into the tournaments. The players who helped India win the T20 World Cup understand the format; they have been essential. So, it's important to support them. The captain praised the young player, saying, Definitely, he is a brilliant talent. When he gets a chance to play, he will certainly excel. Shreyas also spoke about Indias disappointing 2-0 T20I series defeat to the Ireland cricket team. He admitted the result was hard to accept, though he stopped short of calling it embarrassing. It wasn't embarrassing, but it was tough for us since we didn't expect Ireland to perform that well, Shreyas said. They outplayed us in every aspect. They had good strategies regarding the ground dimensions, and we fell short in analysing and preparing for the field and how the wicket would play. So, credit to them, but we learned a lot from that series. The captain feels the five-match series in England offers a new challenge and that India is better prepared this time. This is a fresh chapter for us. A few of us have played in England before, and we understand the conditions and dimensions here. We are looking forward to an intense and challenging series. He dismissed the idea that the struggles in Belfast would linger in the team. No, those issues are behind us, he said. As I mentioned earlier, a few of us have experience playing in England, we know how the wickets typically behave, and we watch the matches on TV. In Belfast, we played after many years. Its not an excuse, but Im saying that adjusting to the wicket and the conditions was a bit of a challenge for us. Describing the differences between the two venues, Shreyas noted that Belfasts unique layout made it hard for India to adapt. I think its very different because the Belfast ground wasnt a proper stadium. The outfield wasnt even, and the dimensions were a bit square. It made it tricky to take singles and doubles, especially when fielding. As a captain, setting the field felt odd because we were not used to it. Here, the ground is flat, and the atmosphere is electrifying; the crowd will be intense. We have played in such conditions before. Despite only scoring modest runs in Ireland, Shreyas is not concerned about his batting form. Not at all, he responded when asked if captaincy had added pressure. I am timing the ball well in the nets. Even in the last game, I felt my timing was great; a couple of odd balls just bounced differently. That doesnt represent my batting or the pressure I feel. I trust my instincts. I know how well I perform under pressure. So, I just want to keep that faith in myself and move forward in the upcoming matches. Despite only scoring modest runs in Ireland, Shreyas is not concerned about his batting form. Not at all, he responded when asked if captaincy had added pressure. I am timing the ball well in the nets. Even in the last game, I felt my timing was great; a couple of odd balls just bounced differently. That doesnt represent my batting or the pressure I feel. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I don't know what the atmosphere is like in the England team, he said. But the shift from Test matches to a white ball is something most players have experienced. Its not new for them. Im sure they will manage just fine. Article Source: IANS

What next for Ben Stokes after shock international retirement?

Ashes comeback, county grind with Durham, franchise circuit and coaching among options for former England captain

Women's T20 WC: Molineux, Gardner, Wareham Lead Clinical Effort, Restrict West Indies To 125/7 In Semis

T20 World Cup: Captain Sophie Molineux, Ashleigh Gardner, and Georgia Wareham claimed two wickets each as six-time champions Australia produced a disciplined bowling display to restrict West Indies to 125/7 in 20 overs in the first semifinal of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 at The Oval, London, on Tuesday. After choosing to bowl on a green-top surface, Australia proved their decision right from the first over by putting constant pressure on the West Indies batters. The Windies only found relief through Deandra Dottin's unbeaten 26 off 16 balls, which helped them reach a respectable total after a middle-order collapse. Hayley Matthews and Qiana Joseph opened the innings for the West Indies. Matthews had a strong start, while Joseph struggled to get going. Australia kept their lines and lengths tight, preventing the scoring rate from accelerating. The Windies ended the powerplay at 35/0. The pressure finally took its toll in the ninth over when Matthews was bowled for 30, ending their 47-run opening partnership. Her dismissal marked the beginning of a dramatic collapse, as the Southern Stars quickly dismantled the middle order. Joseph managed 16, but Stafanie Taylor and Jahzara Claxton both fell for 0. The Windies went from 47/0 to 59/4 in just a few overs. Shemaine Campbelle and Chinelle Henry tried to stabilise the innings with a steady partnership. However, Henry was dismissed for 10, caught deep in the 15th over. Campbelle added 22 before falling in the next over, leaving the West Indies struggling for momentum. Dottin, who had been forced off the field shortly after the national anthems but returned to bat, brought some energy back. The seasoned all-rounder hit regular boundaries in her 16-ball innings, scoring 26 not out and helping the Windies cross the 120-run mark. Glasgow contributed 15 before getting out on the last ball of the innings. Molineux finished with 2/30, with Ashleigh Gardner (2/13) and Georgia Wareham (2/17) taking two wickets apiece to cut through the middle order after Hayley Matthews was dismissed. Annabel Sutherland also picked up a wicket, returning figures of 1/26 as West Indies were restricted to 125/7 in their 20 overs. Dottin, who had been forced off the field shortly after the national anthems but returned to bat, brought some energy back. The seasoned all-rounder hit regular boundaries in her 16-ball innings, scoring 26 not out and helping the Windies cross the 120-run mark. Also Read: Live Cricket Score West Indies 125/7 in 20 overs (Hayley Matthews 30, Deandra Dottin 26; Ashleigh Gardner 2-13, Georgia Wareham 2-17) against Australia Article Source: IANS

Aditya Birla-led consortium closes in on RCB acquisition

The Competition Commission of India has approved the acquisition, and the next step is for BCCI to ratifying the process

Dottin bats at No. 8 after medical issue in semi-final

After spending about 30 minutes in the medical room at The Oval, Dottin scored 26 off 16 to help West Indies post 125

'Not embarrassing, but depressing' - Shreyas rues series loss against Ireland

India captain acknowledged the tactical errors against Ireland while backing himself to lead the response against England

TG20 Season 1: Rahul Radeshs Ton Helps Karimnagar Diamonds Rout Medak Falcons By 133 Runs

Hyderabad Cricket Association: EIPL & Eleve Karimnagar Diamonds continued their rise to the top with an exceptional 133-run victory over Medak Falcons during the Hyderabad Cricket Association's TG20 at the GMC Balayogi Stadium in Hyderabad on Tuesday. With a second win in as many games, they are now fourth on the points table. Rahul Radesh was excellent with the bat, scoring 101 off 48 balls, including eight fours and eight sixes, while Chandan Sahani (56* off 36) also chipped in to power the Diamonds to 232/4. Ashish Srivastav (2/13) and Shubham Sharma (2/16) led the charge with the ball as they bundled out the Falcons for 99 in 19.1 overs in what is the lowest total in the tournament to date. Diamonds got off to a steady start with Satwik Reddy and Tanmay Agarwal (11 off 9) laying the platform for their side. The former led the charge as they scored 21 runs off the third over, rollicking along at 40/0. Kartikeya Kak provided the breakthrough for the Falcons, dismissing the Diamonds captain in the fourth over. That wrestled back momentum for the bowling side as Sai Varun Yerram also got rid of Sai Sharan (11 off 10), with Falcons conceding only 14 runs in the latter half of the powerplay. Skipper Ravi Teja bagged the prized scalp of Satwik Reddy, who scored 35 off 18, including 4 fours and a couple of maximums - in the seventh over, putting the batting side in a spot of bother at 58/3. Rahul Radesh and Chandan Sahani bided their time by knocking the ball around and rotating strike to rebuild in the middle overs. The two found some rhythm as they began to accelerate in the 13th over, adding some impetus to the innings. The pivotal moment of the match came in the 15th over, when Rahul took Ahwinan Ram to the cleaners. He smashed four sixes as he marauded his way to a 30-ball fifty. Chandan also made his presence felt, as they scored 35 runs off the over, making it the most expensive over of the tournament so far. The pair continued to put the Falcons bowlers under the pump as they found boundaries at will. Rahul blazed his way to a sensational century (the fifth of Sreenidhi University TG20) in 46 balls. Chandan also notched up his half-century in 30 balls, as the two batters swung the pendulum in their sides favour. They combined for the highest partnership of the tournament, scoring 163 runs off 76 balls. Madhukar Manne eventually got the better of Rahul in the final over, but the damage had been done by then. The colossal partnership provided a strong finish for the Diamonds as they scored 135 runs in the last eight overs, posting a total of 232/4. Chasing a daunting target, the Falcons had the worst possible start as Ishan Sharma (0 off 5) fell to Harish Thakur in the first over of the chase. Vikram Naik (10 off 7) and Adithya Varma (12 off 12) also fell to Akhil Kumar and Shubham Sharma, respectively, as the batting side found themselves reeling at 37/3 in the powerplay. Falcons never managed to recover from the early setback as they continued to lose wickets at regular intervals. Sai Varun (9 off 13) and Surya (1 off 3) fell in successive overs to Satish Kumar and Narayana Teja, respectively, as the Falcons sank further into trouble. Ashish Srivastav trapped Ahwinan in the 11th over, as the team stumbled to 63/6. Skipper Ravi Teja managed to muster 37 off 28 balls before he, too, succumbed to Satwik, triggering a flurry of wickets. Ashish bagged his second wicket as he got the better of Bunny Jagam (3 off 11). The innings unravelled quickly thereafter as Arjun Gorrapalli (3 off 5) was run out and Shubham Sharma cleaned up Kartikeya to complete the rout. Falcons never managed to recover from the early setback as they continued to lose wickets at regular intervals. Sai Varun (9 off 13) and Surya (1 off 3) fell in successive overs to Satish Kumar and Narayana Teja, respectively, as the Falcons sank further into trouble. Ashish Srivastav trapped Ahwinan in the 11th over, as the team stumbled to 63/6. Also Read: Live Cricket Score EIPL & Eleve Karimnagar Diamonds 232/4 in 20 overs (Rahul Radesh 101, Chandan Sahani 56*, Madhukar Manne 1/33, Sai Varun Yerram 1/34) beat Medak Falcons 99 in 19.1 overs (Ravi Teja 37, Ashish Srivastav 2/13, Shubham Sharma 2/16) by 133 runs. Article Source: IANS

Wimbledon 2026: Coco Gauff brought to tears by interaction with anti-doping tester

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Unchanged Australia bowl against West Indies

West Indies made one change to the side which lost to Ireland, replacing Ashwini Munisar with Karishma Ramharack

Women's T20 WC: Unchanged Australia Elect To Bowl Against WI In First Semis

T20 World Cup: Australia won the toss and elected to bowl against West Indies in the first semifinal of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup, here at The Oval. Australia captain Sophie Molineux said her side opted to bowl first after assessing the pitch, believing the surface offered enough assistance early on to put West Indies under pressure. She noted that the grass covering had increased overnight and wanted her bowlers to exploit the conditions first up. Molineux confirmed Australia were unchanged for the semi-final and acknowledged the challenge posed by the West Indies, insisting her team would stick to its plans regardless of the opposition. She also shared a light-hearted moment while speaking about Hayley Matthews, saying: We are going to have a bowl. Looks like a good pitch here, and want to put early pressure. It does look like it has got some on it. It has grown overnight. Just get out of here and have a run first. We have the same team. I feel like the West Indies are an incredible team, and we have to bring our best. We have to stick to our plan, no matter who we are playing. We were just talking about the Renegades before (laughs). She's always good to play against. West Indies captain Hayley Matthews said she was happy to bat first after losing the toss, backing the surface at The Oval to remain consistent throughout the match. Although the Windies had initially wanted to bowl, Matthews stressed that her side had nothing to lose and would approach the Women's T20 World Cup semi-final with an aggressive, fearless mindset. Yeah. I think it's a good wicket here at The Oval. It's not going to change too much. We were looking to bowl first as well, but we have nothing to lose. We will go out there and play a fearless brand of cricket, she said. Playing XIs: West Indies captain Hayley Matthews said she was happy to bat first after losing the toss, backing the surface at The Oval to remain consistent throughout the match. Although the Windies had initially wanted to bowl, Matthews stressed that her side had nothing to lose and would approach the Women's T20 World Cup semi-final with an aggressive, fearless mindset. Yeah. I think it's a good wicket here at The Oval. It's not going to change too much. We were looking to bowl first as well, but we have nothing to lose. We will go out there and play a fearless brand of cricket, she said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Australia Women: Georgia Voll, Beth Mooney (wk), Phoebe Litchfield, Ellyse Perry, Ashleigh Gardner, Georgia Wareham, Annabel Sutherland, Sophie Molineux (c), Nicola Carey, Kim Garth, Lucy Hamilton Article Source: IANS

One-off Test: Zimbabwe Beat Bangladesh By An Innings And 85 Runs To Seal Their Biggest Win

Harare Sports Club: The Zimbabwe cricket team, under the leadership of Richard Ngarava, has etched its name in the history books as it registered its biggest win in Test cricket history, beating Bangladesh by an innings and 85 runs in the one-off test at the Harare Sports Club on Tuesday. Opting to bowl after winning the toss, Zimbabwe dominated against the visitors from the outset as Bangladesh were off to a poor start and lost eight wickets for just seven runs to get bowled out for just 140 on Day 1. Mominul Haque was the lone warrior for the team as he scored 60 runs off 81 balls. Newman Nyamhuri was brilliant with the ball and took four crucial wickets. While captain Richard Ngarava, Blessing Muzarabani, and Brad Evans also chipped in with two wickets each. After the pacers' domination, it was time for the batsman to show their class against the Asian side as Innocent Kaia hit a brilliant century and top-scored with 140, while Craig Ervine, Brian Bennett, and Wessly Madhevere chipped in with half-centuries as Zimbabwe posted a match-winning 410 runs in the first innings. Taijul Islam was the most efficient Bangladesh bowler as he took seven wickets. The hosts also took a massive first-innings lead of 270, which proved to be too much for Bangladesh, who failed to pull off a miracle as none of their batters showed the resilience, and they were bowled out for 185 in the second innings. Zimbabwe's pace quartet of Ngarava, Muzarabani, Evans, and Nyamhuri hunted in a pack, with none of them going wicketless in either innings. This is also the first time Zimbabwe have won consecutive Tests in more than 25 years. In their previous Test match played in October, they beat Afghanistan by an innings and 73 runs, and have now backed it up with a victory over Bangladesh to register successive Test wins. The hosts also took a massive first-innings lead of 270, which proved to be too much for Bangladesh, who failed to pull off a miracle as none of their batters showed the resilience, and they were bowled out for 185 in the second innings. Zimbabwe's pace quartet of Ngarava, Muzarabani, Evans, and Nyamhuri hunted in a pack, with none of them going wicketless in either innings. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Bangladesh 140 (Mominul Haque 60; Newman Nyamhuri 4-61, Blessing Muzarabani 2-19) & 185 (Mushfiqur Rahim 34; Blessing Muzarabani 4-65, Richard Ngarava 3-32) lost to Zimbabwe 410 (Innocent Kaia 140, Wessly Madhevere*, Craig Ervine 60; Taijul Islam 7-138) by an innings & 85 runs. Article Source: IANS

Wimbledon 2026: Anisimova brushes aside Gjorcheska for winning return to Wimbledon

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Bowlers, Kaia lead Zimbabwe to their biggest Test win

Muzarabani picked up 4 for 65 in the second outing as Zimbabwe thrashed Bangladesh by an innings and 85 runs

Delhi Premier League: Pant, Pratika Headline Season 3 Auction As 600+ Players Set To Go Under The Hammer

The Delhi Premier League: The Delhi Premier League (DPL) T20 Season 3 Player Auction is scheduled for July 1 in Delhi. Eight men's franchises and four women's franchises will build their squads for the upcoming season. More than 600 players are vying in the two competitions, including over 400 men and more than 200 women. Among them, 65 men's players and 28 women's players have already been retained by their franchises before the auction. DDCA President Rohan Jaitley said, The player auction is one of the most exciting days in the Delhi cricket calendar. It is the moment when teams begin taking shape, and franchises make the strategic calls that will define their season. The DPL has grown into a competition that genuinely matters for Delhi cricket, both as a platform for established players and as a stage for emerging talent to prove themselves. I am looking forward to seeing how the franchises put their combinations together and what the auction throws up on the day. Before the season, each of the eight men's franchises received a total purse of Rs 1.5 crore, with retention amounts already deducted. The remaining balance is what each franchise will contribute at the auction on July 1. Similarly, each of the four women's franchises was allocated a purse of Rs 75 lakhs, also adjusted after retention deductions. Players in both competitions are categorised into four groups according to their experience and cricket level. In the men's competition, the Marquee category includes India internationals, India A players, and those who have been part of an IPL squad in any of the last three seasons. Category A consists of players who represented Delhi's senior men's team in the Ranji Trophy, Vijay Hazare Trophy, or Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy within the past three domestic seasons. Category B encompasses Delhi Under-23, Under-19, and Under-16 players from the same timeframe. Category C comprises DDCA-registered players from Delhi's league cricket circuit. In the women's competition, the Marquee category features India international women cricketers from Delhi/DDCA, along with players who participated in Women's Premier League squads over the past three seasons. Category A includes players who represented Delhi's senior women's team in the Senior Women's One Day Trophy or T20 Trophy during any of the last three domestic seasons. Category B comprises Delhi Under-23, Under-19, and Under-15 players. Category C consists of DDCA Women's T20 League performers and registered players who have not been part of the senior team's playing XI. Men's Auction Pool: Across the four categories, 65 men's players have been retained by their franchises: eight from the Marquee category, 16 from Category A, 22 from Category B, and 19 from Category C. The base prices are Rs 10 lakhs for Marquee players, Rs 5 lakhs for Category A, Rs 3 lakhs for Category B, and Rs 1 lakh for Category C. At the men's auction, the Marquee players feature Rishabh Pant prominently, along with Ishant Sharma, Navdeep Saini, Simarjeet Singh, Mayank Yadav, Anuj Rawat, Digvesh Rathi, Himmat Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Sarthak Ranjan, Suyash Sharma, Vansh Bedi, and Tejasvi. Women's Auction Pool: Across the four categories, 28 women's players have been retained by their franchises, with three retained from the Marquee category, eight from Category A, 12 from Category B and 5 from Category C. The base price for Marquee players is Rs 5 lakhs, Category A is Rs 3 lakhs, Category B is Rs 1.5 lakhs and Category C is Rs 75,000. The Marquee players available at the women's auction are Priya Punia, Priya Mishra, Parunika Sisodia, Pratika Rawal and Simran Dil Bahadur. Right To Match: Every franchise in both competitions has one RTM card, usable once during the auction. When a player from a franchise's previous season squad is up for bidding, the original franchise can allow others to bid and, upon reaching a final bid, use the RTM card to match the bid and re-acquire the player. Squad Composition Men's franchises are required to field a squad of 20 to 25 players, including exactly two Marquee players, exactly four Category A players, six to 10 Category B players, and eight to nine Category C players. Women's franchises must assemble a squad of 18 to 22 players, with exactly two Marquee players, exactly four Category A players, seven to eight Category B players, and five to eight Category C players. Men's Retentions North Delhi Strikers - 8 Players Retained | Purse Remaining: Rs 74L Harshit Rana (Marquee, Rs 21L), Pranav Rajvanshi (Category A, Rs 5L), Vaibhav Kandpal (Category A, Rs 13.5L), Arnav Bugga (Category B, Rs 7.75L), Yash Bhatia (Category B, Rs 6.75L), Arjun Rapria (Category C, Rs 11.5L), Vikas Dixit (Category C, Rs 2L), Yash Dabas (Category C, Rs 8.5L) Central Delhi Kings - 9 Players Retained | Purse Remaining: Rs 76.2L Yash Dhull (Marquee, Rs 15L), Money Grewal (Category A, Rs 18L), Jonty Sidhu (Category A, Rs 10L), Yugal Saini (Category B, Rs 3.8L), Aditya Bhandari (Category B, Rs 3L), Siddharth Joon (Category B, Rs 3L), Gavnish Khurana (Category C, Rs 1L), Jasvir Sehrawat (Category C, Rs 1L), Tejas Baroka (Category C, Rs 19L) East Delhi Riders - 8 Players Retained | Purse Remaining: Rs 90.05L Mayank Rawat (Marquee, Rs 26L), Arpit Rana (Category A, Rs 13L), Rounak Waghela (Category A, Rs 6.25L), Hardik Sharma (Category B, Rs 5.5L), Vansh Jetly (Category B, Rs 3L), Ashish Meena (Category C, Rs 1L), Rohit Yadav (Category C, Rs 4.2L), Vaibhav Baisla (Category C, Rs 1L) New Delhi Tigers - 9 Players Retained | Purse Remaining: Rs 91L Prince Yadav (Marquee, Rs 33L), Lakshay Thareja (Category A, Rs 5L), Vaibhav Rawal (Category A, Rs 5.5L), Pradyuman Sanan (Category B, Rs 1L), Keshav R Singh (Category B, Rs 10.5L), Parikshit Singh Bhati (Category C, Rs 1L), Shivam Gupta (Category C, Rs 1L), Yashjeet (Category C, Rs 1L), Parth Kr. Bali (Category C, Rs 1L) Outer Delhi Warriors - 8 Players Retained | Purse Remaining: Rs 83.75L Priyansh Arya (Marquee, Rs 21L), Shivam Sharma (Category A, Rs 5L), Siddhant Sharma (Category A, Rs 12.5L), Mohit Panwar (Category B, Rs 3L), Shaurya Malik (Category B, Rs 6.25L), Aman Chaudhary (Category B, Rs 4L), Dhruv Singh (Category C, Rs 13.5L), Rishab Drall (Category C, Rs 1L) Puraani Dilli 6 - 7 Players Retained | Purse Remaining: Rs 86.3L Lalit Yadav (Marquee, Rs 10L), Samarth Seth (Category A, Rs 9L), Dev Lakra (Category A, Rs 14L), Rajneesh Dadar (Category B, Rs 19L), Udhav Mohan (Category B, Rs 6.5L), Yug Gupta (Category B, Rs 4.2L), Aditya Malhotra (Category C, Rs 1L) South Delhi Superstarz - 7 Players Retained | Purse Remaining: Rs 99.05L Ayush Badoni (Marquee, Rs 21L), Sumit Kumar (Category A, Rs 5.5L), Sumit Mathur (Category A, Rs 5L), Aman Bharti (Category B, Rs 5.75L), Divansh Rawat (Category B, Rs 3L), Anmol Sharma (Category B, Rs 6.5L), Vision Panchal (Category C, Rs 4.2L) West Delhi Lions - 9 Players Retained | Purse Remaining: Rs 68.25L Nitish Rana (Marquee, Rs 34L), Ayush Doseja (Category A, Rs 10L), Manan Bhardwaj (Category A, Rs 6.5L), Ankit Rajesh Kumar (Category B, Rs 10L), Krish Yadav (Category B, Rs 7L), Ravneet Tanwar (Category B, Rs 1L), Shubham Dubey (Category B, Rs 6L), Anirudh Chowdhary (Category C, Rs 6.25L), Vikas Rana (Category C, Rs 1L) Women's Retentions South Delhi Superstarz - 8 Players Retained | Purse Remaining: Rs 32.6L Shweta Sehrawat (Marquee, Rs 11.55L), Tanisha Singh (Category A, Rs 13L), Disha Nagar (Category A, Rs 5.5L), Himakshi Chaudhary (Category B, Rs 1.6L), Tanishqa Singh (Category B, Rs 3.8L), Chhavi Gupta (Category B, Rs 4L), Kashish (Category B, Rs 2.2L), Mitali R (Category C, Rs 0.75L) East Delhi Riders Women - 6 Players Retained | Purse Remaining: Rs 61.05L Bharti Rawal (Category A, Rs 6.75L), Vanshika Lila (Category A, Rs 2.1L), Aarna Dudeja (Category B, Rs 2.1L), Suhana Attri (Category B, Rs 1.5L), Hridya Sharma (Category C, Rs 0.75L), Urvashi Gupta (Category C, Rs 0.75L) Central Delhi Queens - 6 Players Retained | Purse Remaining: Rs 49.95L Soni Yadav (Marquee, Rs 5.5L), Deeksha Sharma (Category A, Rs 2.5L), Nidhi Mahto (Category A, Rs 7.75L), Riya Kondal (Category B, Rs 4.8L), Saachi (Category B, Rs 1.5L), Mallika Khatri (Category C, Rs 3L) North Delhi Strikers Women - 8 Players Retained | Purse Remaining: Rs 39.5L Soni Yadav (Marquee, Rs 5.5L), Deeksha Sharma (Category A, Rs 2.5L), Nidhi Mahto (Category A, Rs 7.75L), Riya Kondal (Category B, Rs 4.8L), Saachi (Category B, Rs 1.5L), Mallika Khatri (Category C, Rs 3L) Also Read: Live Cricket Score When and where to watch: The auction will begin at 9:00 am IST and will be broadcast live on Jio Hotstar and the official DPL T20 YouTube channel. Article Source: IANS

Nepal: Cricket Tournament Organised By Indian Embassy Strengthens Ties

Foreign Affairs Gahendra Rajbhandari: The Indian Embassy in Nepal organised the second edition of the Indian Ambassador's Cricket Tournament from June 26-28 in Kathmandu, bringing together diplomats, government officials, media professionals, former cricketers, corporate representatives, and members of the Indian diaspora in the country, the Embassy said on Tuesday. The three-day tournament featured eight teams representing the Indian Embassy in Nepal, Nepal's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the diplomatic community in Kathmandu, Nepali media, former Nepali cricketers, Government of Nepal officials, corporate organisations, and the Indian community in Nepal (ICAN). After a series of competitive matches, the tournament concluded on June 28 with the final held between the Indian Embassy and ICAN. Following the match, India's Ambassador to Nepal, Naveen Srivastava, and representatives of the organising partners presented trophies and awards to the winning team and the outstanding performers. The opening ceremony was held on June 26 in the presence of Ambassador Srivastava, Joint Secretary of the South Asia Division at Nepal's Ministry of Foreign Affairs Gahendra Rajbhandari and senior diplomatic representatives. Following the tournament's conclusion, a reception was held on June 29 to celebrate its successful completion. On the occasion, Ambassador Srivastava also presented professional-grade cricket kits to three promising Nepali Under-19 women cricketers Sana Praveen, Krishma Gurung, and Sabitri Dhami and wished them success in the ICC U-19 Women's T20 World Cup scheduled for next year. The tournament is scheduled to be jointly hosted by Nepal and Bangladesh. The opening ceremony was held on June 26 in the presence of Ambassador Srivastava, Joint Secretary of the South Asia Division at Nepal's Ministry of Foreign Affairs Gahendra Rajbhandari and senior diplomatic representatives. Also Read: Live Cricket Score This annual tournament celebrates the spirit of cricket a sport that continues to bring the people of India and Nepal closer and strengthen the people-to-people ties between the two countries, the Embassy said. Article Source: IANS

Punjab CM Mann Opens Olympic-standard Swimming Pool In Sangrur

Asian Hockey Championship Trophy: Punjab Chief Minister, Bhagwant Mann, on Tuesday inaugurated an Olympic-standard swimming pool built at a cost of Rs 9.50 crore in Sangrur and declared that the district is poised to emerge as a nursery for Asian, World and Olympic champions. Highlighting the Aam Aadmi Party governments investment in sports infrastructure, CM Mann said Punjab has increased the sports budget from less than Rs 200 crore under previous governments to Rs 1,790 crore, secured the opportunity to host the Asian Hockey Championship Trophy for the first time, and is now ready to launch cricket and hockey premier leagues to nurture international-level talent. Addressing the gathering after the inauguration, CM Mann said the day marked a moment of immense pride and joy for the people of Sangrur, especially the youth, as the newly-constructed state-of-the-art swimming pool has been dedicated to them. This swimming pool will serve as a nursery for our future Olympians, said CM Mann. Highlighting his governments focus on strengthening sports infrastructure, CM Mann said the world-class swimming pool is another significant step towards restoring Punjabs position as the number one sporting state in the country. The swimming pool has been constructed at a cost of Rs 9.50 crore in accordance with international standards and Olympic specifications. The pool measures 50 metres by 21 metres, with a depth ranging from 4.5 feet to 7.5 feet and has a water-holding capacity of 2.5 lakh litres, CM Mann said. Sharing details of facilities developed at the complex, CM Mann said separate modern shower facilities, changing rooms, dedicated rooms for coaches and storage rooms have been provided to ensure maximum convenience for athletes. He further said that a modern gymnasium has also been established to help athletes strengthen and condition their muscles. A dedicated mini swimming pool has also been developed for children below the age of seven, said CM Mann. He said the swimming pool has been constructed using the worlds finest Myrtha RenovAction and Classic Modular System technology. He further said that a modern gymnasium has also been established to help athletes strengthen and condition their muscles. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Appealing to parents in Sangrur and the surrounding areas, the Chief Minister urged them to encourage their children to take up sports. Our government will ensure that there is never any shortage of facilities or funds for the promotion of sports, CM Mann said. Article Source: IANS

Prime Minister's XI game moved to Melbourne as England warm-up to 150th anniversary Test

The floodlit match at Junction Oval will be the first time the fixture has not been held in Canberra

Swann Warns England Bowlers Of Sooryavanshi Challenge, Says its Hard To Prepare For A Player Like Him

New Delhi: Former England spinner Graeme Swann believes Vaibhav Sooryavanshi presents one of the toughest assignments for England's bowling attack ahead of India's T20I series, saying the teenage batter has so far found answers against every challenge put before him. Speaking ahead of the series in England, Swann suggested that while most bowlers are still searching for a way to contain the youngster, Jofra Archer could hold a slight advantage because of his familiarity with Sooryavanshi from the IPL. He admitted that preparing for a batter with limited international exposure but extensive franchise experience is far from straightforward. It's hard to prepare for a player like Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. He is still new to international cricket, but he has already played two IPL seasons. That means there is video footage available. Some of the England bowlers may have bowled to him in the IPL, Swann told JioStar. Even with that information at their disposal, Swann feels England have little evidence to suggest there is a clear blueprint for dismissing the young left-hander. But the truth is, no one has really had much success against him so far. He has looked almost unplayable, he added. Among England's pace options, however, Swann identified Archer as the bowler best placed to test Sooryavanshi, citing the fast bowler's first-hand knowledge of the teenager's game. The one bowler who might have a slight advantage is Jofra Archer. He has seen Sooryavanshi from the dugout, bowled to him in the nets, and watched him closely. He has probably seen more of him than anyone else, Swann opined. Swann believes that familiarity could help Archer uncover a method to challenge the youngster, particularly given his ability to combine insight with genuine pace. Maybe he has spotted a weakness. Maybe he has a plan. And he has the express pace to back it up. The one bowler who might have a slight advantage is Jofra Archer. He has seen Sooryavanshi from the dugout, bowled to him in the nets, and watched him closely. He has probably seen more of him than anyone else, Swann opined. Also Read: Live Cricket Score But so far, no matter who has bowled to Sooryavanshi, no matter how highly rated the bowler, he has always had an answer, he said. Article Source: IANS

No time to analyse for India, England as T20I series awaits

While Sooryavanshi still waits for his T20I debut, Archer is unlikely to play the first T20I

Cricketer Shashank Singh Denies Assault Charges, Claims Attempt To Implicate Family; Police Continue Probe

Madhya Pradesh Special Director General: Cricketer Shashank Singh on Tuesday denied allegations of assaulting a man employed at his family's residence in Bhopal, claiming the complainant had falsely projected himself as a cook and suggesting that an attempt was being made to implicate his family. The statement came a day after Ratibad police registered an FIR against Shashank Singh, his father and retired Madhya Pradesh Special Director General (DG) of Police Shailesh Singh, and their driver on the complaint of Vipendra Singh Tomar, who alleged that he was assaulted, abused and his mobile phone was taken away while working at their residence. Breaking his silence on the controversy, Shashank Singh said the complainant was never appointed as a cook because he himself admitted that he did not know cooking. First of all, I want to clarify that he was not a cook. He came claiming that he was a cook, but when he was asked to prepare food, he admitted that he did not know how to cook. He himself later said that he didn't know cooking, the cricketer told IANS on Tuesday. He claimed that the man was taking photographs and videos inside the house, including of rooms and decorative items, prompting the family to check his mobile phone. He was taking photos and videos inside the house, including our decorative items and rooms. I suspected that this could later turn into a theft-related issue. We checked his mobile phone because it contained photos and videos from inside our house. Naturally, no one likes a stranger recording such things inside their home, so we asked him to delete them, Shashank Singh said. Denying allegations of assault or wrongful confinement, he said there was no physical violence inside the house and maintained that the complainant left the residence with his mobile phone. The allegation that he was held hostage for three days is extremely serious. We belong to a reputed family, and we would never indulge in such acts. When he left, he took his phone with him. If he got into a fight or was assaulted outside, how can I be responsible for that? If someone is trying to frame us or has some motive, only he can explain that. Inside our house, there was neither any abuse nor any physical assault, he added. Shashank Singh also said the complainant was scolded by his mother for making videos inside the house but insisted that he was neither mistreated nor assaulted. He further claimed that his family believed someone was orchestrating the incident. Meanwhile, Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police Anil Sharma told IANS that the case was being investigated. A complaint was filed by a cook, following which a case involving charges of assault has been registered. The entire matter is under investigation. A case of assault has been registered against three individuals, Sharma said. According to the FIR accessed by IANS, complainant Vipendra Singh Tomar, a resident of Rewa district, alleged that he joined the family's Neelbad residence on June 25 after being promised a monthly salary of Rs 15,000 along with food and accommodation. Tomar alleged that after being told there were shortcomings in his work, his mobile phone was taken away. According to the FIR accessed by IANS, complainant Vipendra Singh Tomar, a resident of Rewa district, alleged that he joined the family's Neelbad residence on June 25 after being promised a monthly salary of Rs 15,000 along with food and accommodation. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Based on the complaint, Ratibad police registered a case against the three accused under Sections 296(B), 115(2) and 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Article Source: IANS

Vaibhav May Have To Wait For The First Three Games: Pujara Urges Patience Over Teenagers Selection

T20 World Cup: Former India batter Cheteshwar Pujara believes teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi should not allow the growing attention around him to become a distraction as he awaits a possible opportunity in India's upcoming T20I series against England. Speaking ahead of the tour, Pujara said the youngster is unlikely to feature immediately given the stability of India's current top order, while stressing that preparation and patience will be crucial to his long-term success. Pujara first advised Sooryavanshi to stay grounded despite the widespread excitement surrounding his emergence. There is a lot of hype around Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. As a young player, he shouldn't pay attention to what is being said about him. He needs to block out the outside noise and focus on his game, Pujara told JioStar. While backing the youngster's mindset, Pujara explained that earning a place in the playing XI depends on more than just talent, especially with India's batting lineup already settled. But even if he is mentally ready, selection is a different matter. I don't think he will get a chance straight away in the England series because India wouldn't want to change their top three. Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, and Ishan Kishan are quality batters who have helped India win the T20 World Cup. So, Vaibhav may have to wait for the first three games, he added. Pujara also outlined the approach he believes Sooryavanshi should adopt whenever his opportunity eventually arrives. If the opportunity arrives, the key for him will be to stay relaxed and calm. He shouldn't put pressure on himself to score big runs. He should just go out and express himself, he said. The veteran batter cautioned that conditions in England will pose a fresh challenge, making thorough preparation essential before expecting the same level of success he enjoyed in franchise cricket. If the opportunity arrives, the key for him will be to stay relaxed and calm. He shouldn't put pressure on himself to score big runs. He should just go out and express himself, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India begin their T20I series in England with a settled batting unit, meaning Sooryavanshi may have to bide his time before receiving his first opportunity at the international level. Article Source: IANS

ICC Rankings: Charani Retains Top Spot, Bell-Ecclestone Close In After Latest Update

T20 World Cup: India left-arm spinner Sree Charani retained her position as the world's No.1 T20I bowler in the latest rankings released on Tuesday, although England duo Sophie Ecclestone and Lauren Bell have moved closer to the summit following their impressive performances at the ongoing Women's T20 World Cup. Charani, who finished India's campaign with 14 wickets to emerge as one of the tournament's standout bowlers, continues to lead the rankings despite the team's group-stage exit. However, with several players still featuring in the knockout stages, her lead remains under threat. Ecclestone climbed one place to third after taking eight wickets in the tournament so far, while fellow England pacer Bell made an even bigger jump, rising three places to fourth. South Africa spinner Nonkululeko Mlaba also gained one place to move into fifth, while Pakistan left-arm spinner Nashra Sandhu improved one spot to ninth. Among the other notable movers in the bowling rankings, South Africa all-rounder Marizanne Kapp jumped seven places to 14th, Scotland captain Kathryn Bryce surged 17 spots to 26th, and New Zealand seamer Bree Illing climbed six places to 31st. Australia opener Georgia Voll retained her place as the world's No.1 T20I batter despite a poor performance in the last group stage match against India. South Africa captain Laura Wolvaardt moved up one place to joint third, while Sri Lanka skipper Chamari Athapaththu climbed two positions to seventh after her unbeaten century against Ireland during the group stage. England opener Danni Wyatt-Hodge, currently the tournament's leading run-scorer, gained five places to 11th. Australia veteran Ellyse Perry also rose five spots to 17th, South Africa's Annerie Dercksen advanced four places to 24th, and Scotland's Darcey Carter jumped 13 positions to 42nd. There was no change at the top of the T20I all-rounders' rankings, with West Indies captain Hayley Matthews retaining the No.1 position ahead of New Zealand's Melie Kerr. England opener Danni Wyatt-Hodge, currently the tournament's leading run-scorer, gained five places to 11th. Australia veteran Ellyse Perry also rose five spots to 17th, South Africa's Annerie Dercksen advanced four places to 24th, and Scotland's Darcey Carter jumped 13 positions to 42nd. Also Read: Live Cricket Score -IANS Article Source: IANS

The Forgotten BCCI Talent Hunt That Discovered MS Dhoni, Raina and Ishant Sharma

Recently, the Mumbai Cricket Association created a Talent Resource Development Officer (TRDO) Wing and appointed former Mumbai chief selector Sanjay Patil as its first chairman. Similarly, former India cricketer Laya Francis will be chief of the Womens wing of TRDW. The TRDW is considered an important step towards finding crickets raw and new talent. TRDW is not a trademark, but in Indian cricket, mere mention of it or TRDO straightway takes to BCCI and the pioneering work done by former India captain Dilip Vengsarkar as the first chief of BCCIs Talent Resource Development Wing (TRDW). It was an excellent initiative and helped to discover new talent from all corners of the country. This system, during its existence from 2002 to 2006, brought cricketers such as Mahendra Singh Dhoni, Ishant Sharma, Suresh Raina, Piyush Chawla, RP Singh and many others from obscurity to centre-stage. Its surprising that despite best results and finding wonderful performers, through the scheme, BCCI discontinued it. It was such a fruitful initiative that in 2015, the BCCIs newly constituted advisory panel of Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly and VVS Laxman had recommended the revival of the Talent Resource Development Officers (TRDO) wing. The BCCI kept the issue burning for months and at last didnt revive it. The aim of the revival was to transform BCCIs National Cricket Academy from just a rehab centre to an actual nursery of the brightest talent in the country, decentralizing the NCA and starting zonal academies instead. Unfortunately, this vision didnt impress the BCCI. The cue was, however, taken by the IPL franchisees, and they redefined the role and called it talent scouting and player development. The inflow of unheard and uncapped talent straight to the IPL, bypassing the BCCI system of finding new talent is proof of the success of the process. Vaibhav Suryavanshi is the best example. The TRDW was created by the BCCI in 2002 (when its president was Jagmohan Dalmiya) and this initiative was suggested by administrator Makarand Waingankar. Dilip Vengsarkar was appointed its first chief (on a handsome salary of Rs. 15 lacs pa). The project involved appointing former cricketers and coaches as Talent Resource Development Officers (TRDO) catering to each zone, to spot local talent, looking beyond the established cricketing centres. This diminished the role of local state cricket associations in recommending names for national level selections. The TRDO discovered the talent and recommended to the BCCI directly to fast-track the grooming of players for national team duty via the National Cricket Academy (NCA). Mahendra Singh Dhoni was the best talent discovered by TRDO. Makarand Waingankar first tried this process in 2001 with the Karnataka State Cricket Association. The BCCI chief and former ICC Chair, Jagmohan Dalmiya, decided to replicate it for Indian cricket and within a few days the TRDW was set up with Dilip Vengsarkar as the first chief, assisted by Brijesh Patel. Twenty Talent Resource Development Officers (TRDOs) were appointed, to watch local junior matches around the country, rate the players on a uniform objective scale, and report directly to the National Junior Selection Committee and the National Cricket Academy (NCA), bypassing the state cricket associations. Today no one remembers that a TRDO named Prakash Poddar, former captain of Bengal in the 1960s, saw Dhoni playing for Jharkhand at Jamshedpur in 2003 and recommended him to the NCA. His recommendation reads, Good striker of the ball; has a lot of power but needs to work on his wicket-keeping. Technically not very good. He is very good at running between wickets. Similarly, other talented cricketers were identified. Unfortunately, the BCCI dissolved TRDW in 2006 after a power-shift and the removal of its head, Jagmoham Dalmiya. Thereafter, to unearth new talent, focus shifted to Under-19 cricket. Also Read: Live Cricket Score In 2009, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) set up a TRDW adopting the BCCI model of the scheme and brought Makarand Waingankar to implement it. Its a different story that the then KKR coach, John Buchanan, looked at the scheme as a challenge to his authority and worked very fast to pack it.

The Game Will Miss You: Yuvraj Pens Heartfelt Note For Stokes On International Retirement

Two World Cup: Former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh paid an emotional tribute to Ben Stokes following the England stars retirement from international cricket upon the conclusion of the third Test against New Zealand. The Indian stalwart reflected on Stokes defining moments and lasting influence on the game, praising his ability to overcome adversity throughout a 15-year international career. Yuvraj began by highlighting the moments that, in his view, defined Stokes place among crickets modern greats. 'A World Cup final innings that nobody who watched it will ever forget. A 135 not out at Headingley that rewrote what was possible. The courage to speak openly about mental health when most wouldnt. Losing his father. And coming back every single time, Yuvraj wrote on X. The former India star drew parallels between Stokes journey and his own experiences, saying resilience, rather than statistics or silverware, ultimately defines greatness. I know what it feels like to be on top of the world one day and at your absolute lowest the next and I saw that same journey in you, he added. Yuvraj said it was Stokes repeated ability to recover from setbacks that elevated him beyond being just a successful cricketer. That is what separates the good from the truly great. Not the records. Not the trophies. The ability to get back up. He also reflected on the achievements that marked Stokes international career, acknowledging both his leadership and his success on the biggest stages, stating, 15 years. Two World Cup winners medals. A captain who made his team believe anything was possible. One of the finest that the game will always remember. Yuvraj said it was Stokes repeated ability to recover from setbacks that elevated him beyond being just a successful cricketer. That is what separates the good from the truly great. Not the records. Not the trophies. The ability to get back up. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Stokes, one of Englands most influential all-rounders, brought the curtain down on a career that included two ICC World Cup titles, Ashes heroics, and a transformative spell as Englands Test captain. Article Source: IANS

Hamilton Takes 'heaps Of Confidence From India' Heading Into T20 WC Semis

T20 World Cup: Australia fast bowler Lucy Hamilton says she will carry renewed belief into her sides ICC Womens T20 World Cup semi-final against the West Indies after producing three disciplined performances with the new ball during the tournament. Speaking at The Oval ahead of the knockout clash, the 20-year-old reflected on her experience of playing on crickets biggest stage, her confidence after facing India at Lords, and the challenge awaiting Australia as they chase a place in Sundays final. Hamilton, who earned selection in Australias World Cup squad despite limited international experience, said every outing has strengthened her confidence as she continues to settle into the role of opening the bowling. It's been really fun. (It's) really exciting to run out there and take the first over, Hamilton told cricket.com.au. The left-arm quick identified Australias group-stage victory over India as a defining moment in her tournament, saying the occasion had helped reinforce her belief ahead of the semi-finals. Personally, I took heaps of confidence (out of the India game). Everyone feels nervous, and you always have those moments, but running out, singing the anthem in front of so many people (at Lord's) and knowing how much it means to everyone, you always have those couple of nerves, but I think once you get that first over under underway you settle into the game, she added. Hamilton believes those experiences have prepared her for another high-pressure contest, with Australia needing to overcome the West Indies to keep their title hopes alive. Knowing that the team did really well ... the semi-finals are an even bigger occasion, so knowing that I've got that under my belt, and with a massive crowd and against a really strong Indian team, gives me lots of confidence, she stated. She also welcomed the short turnaround between matches, saying the team wants to build on its recent performances rather than lose momentum. It's a fast turnaround, but I think it's really good in T20 cricket to have that momentum; we're all ready to go and can't wait. The quality of cricket that we've been playing recently ... you want that leading into a semi, Hamilton said. The semi-final will also mark Hamiltons first appearance at The Oval, prompting her to visit the venue before match day to familiarise herself with the conditions. I haven't played at The Oval before ... I'm glad I came down (on match eve) just to have a look at the facilities and get used to it and see how fast the outfield is. The conditions can change a lot, so we just have to adapt to them as fast as we can and play our style of cricket, she mentioned. Hamilton expects a fearless approach from the West Indies, whose captain has already suggested her side will embrace the underdog tag in the knockout contest. I haven't played at The Oval before ... I'm glad I came down (on match eve) just to have a look at the facilities and get used to it and see how fast the outfield is. The conditions can change a lot, so we just have to adapt to them as fast as we can and play our style of cricket, she mentioned. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Australia face the West Indies in the first ICC Womens T20 World Cup semi-final at The Oval, with the winner advancing to Sundays final at Lords. Article Source: IANS

You Can Only Make Diamonds In Pressure: Root Pays Emotional Farewell To Stokes

ODI World Cup: Former England captain Joe Root paid a candid tribute to Ben Stokes, lauding the all-rounder's ability to thrive under immense pressure, describing him as a player who consistently produced match-winning moments when the game hung in the balance. Stokes, one of England's modern-day cricketing icons, has retired from international cricket after the third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge, bringing the curtain down on a glittering 15-year international career that began in 2011 and included four years as England's Test captain. Few players have shaped England's fortunes across formats quite like Ben Stokes. A genuine match-winner with bat and ball, Stokes delivered some of the most unforgettable moments, none bigger than his unbeaten 84 in the 2019 ODI World Cup final that helped England lift their first-ever world title. We've been through a huge amount as two players, but one thing I've always admired about you is, whatever's happened, you've always owned your own... But also that old saying of you can only make diamonds in pressure. Whenever the game's been in the balance, the amount of times, there are only so many players that can create moments like you have. And to say that you can count on two hands more, that your career will be remembered for that, Root said in a video shared by England and Wales Cricket Board. Brook further recalled Stookes' legendary 135 not out at Headingley that inspired one of the greatest Ashes victories in history. There's so many different moments that you have done for this team across all formats but especially in Test cricket and there'll be generations of people out there that have been inspired by what you've achieved throughout. And we are all very lucky to have been a part of that journey and to have spent time in the same dressing room as you and everything that you've done. Whether it be winning World Cups, Ashes series, individual moments like that, ridiculous innings at Headingley in 2019, he added. In 2022, following Joe Root's resignation as Test captain, Stokes took charge of the red-ball side and, alongside head coach Brendon McCullum, ushered in the fearless attacking philosophy that became known as Bazball, leding the team to 11 wins in his first 13 matches in charge. Under their leadership, England rediscovered its identity, recording memorable series victories over New Zealand, South Africa, Pakistan and others while bringing fresh excitement to Test cricket. Root concluded his speech by looking ahead to life after their playing days. You inspired most of the lads in this room because you're so old now and they were little teenagers growing up and learning the game. It's been a hell of a ride mate, I've loved every minute playing alongside you. Under their leadership, England rediscovered its identity, recording memorable series victories over New Zealand, South Africa, Pakistan and others while bringing fresh excitement to Test cricket. Also Read: Live Cricket Score He finished his Test career with 7273 runs at 34.46, including 14 centuries, and 252 wickets at 30.98, including six five-wicket hauls in 122 Tests, including 44 as England captain. In 114 ODIs, he has 3463 runs and has 585 runs in 43 T20Is. Article Source: IANS

India drop Yastika Bhatia and pick G Kamalini for Asian Games

Shreyanka Patil has been named in the squad pending a fitness clearance

Harmanpreet To Lead India In 2026 Asian Games As BCCI Names 15-strong Squad

T20 World Cup: The BCCI on Tuesday announced a Harmanpreet Kaur-led 15-member squad for the upcoming 2026 Asian Games. The selection committee has shown faith in the same contingent that featured in the ICC Women's T20 World Cup, with left-hand batter and wicketkeeper G Kamalinis inclusion inplace of Yastika Bhatia remaining the only change. India will head into the 2026 Asian Games, scheduled to be played in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, from September 19 to October 4, as the defending champions, having clinched the historic gold medal in the womens cricket competition at the previous edition of the Asian Games held in Hangzhou, China. Shafali Verma and Jemimah Rodrigues will spearhead the batting department alongside vice-captain and Smriti Mandhana. Star all-rounder Deepti Sharma anchors a middle order, while the Richa Ghosh leads the wicketkeeping duties alongside backup glovewoman Kamalini. The pace attack will be spearheaded by swing specialist Renuka Singh Thakur and the experienced Arundhati Reddy. Meanwhile, the spin department boasts the expertise of left-arm orthodox Radha Yadav and off-spinner Shreyanka Patil. However, the BCCI said Shreyanka's inclusion in the final squad remains subject to fitness clearance following a recent injury layoff. The all-rounder was ruled out of the T20 World Cup due to a twisted ankle. The pace attack will be spearheaded by swing specialist Renuka Singh Thakur and the experienced Arundhati Reddy. Meanwhile, the spin department boasts the expertise of left-arm orthodox Radha Yadav and off-spinner Shreyanka Patil. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India's squad for the 2026 Asian Games: Harmanpreet Kaur (Captain), Smriti Mandhana (Vice-Captain), Shafali Verma, Jemimah Rodrigues, Deepti Sharma, Richa Ghosh (WK), G. Kamalini (WK), Bharti Fulmali, Sree Charani, Renuka Thakur, Kranti Gaud, Arundhati Reddy, Shreyanka Patil (subject to fitness), Radha Yadav, Nandni Sharma. Article Source: IANS

Wasim Jaffer appointed Hyderabad's mentor ahead of 2026-27 domestic season

He has signed a two-year deal, and will work with both the senior and age-group teams

Michael Vaughan Calls For England Change After Ben Stokes Bows Out With Defeat

Michael Vaughan said there must be more change at the top of English cricket after captain Ben Stokes's international career ended with a thumping 160-run defeat by New Zealand in the third Test at Trent Bridge. Monday's victory gave New Zealand a 2-1 series success and condemned England to a seventh defeat in nine Tests. Stokes stunned fans and pundits alike by announcing his departure from the international game on Sunday's fourth day in Nottingham, the series was still up for grabs. The 35-year-old all-rounder, normally a middle-order batsman, then opened the innings but holed out. England lost three more wickets in a manic pursuit of a stiff target of 373, before Sunday's close to leave them well on their way to a first series defeat at home in three or more Tests since 2012. England head coach Brendon McCullum and managing director Rob Key were backed by their bosses to lead a rebuild of the team following a 4-1 Ashes series loss in Australia concluded in January. But former England captain Vaughan, who led England to Ashes glory in 2005, told the BBC: There must be change after what we've seen here in terms of a cricketing sense now over a period of time. I'll be absolutely staggered if this leadership group is still together (after the New Zealand series). Meanwhile, England fast bowler Jofra Archer said no longer having fellow 2019 World Cup-winner Stokes as a team-mate would be difficult. It's going to take some getting used to, said Archer at the presentation ceremony. Not just as a captain but as a friend. Someone who you can always go to at mid-off or mid-on, wherever he is you can always bounce ideas off him. Hes going to be a big miss. - 'Dumbfounded' - Earlier, former England skipper Andrew Strauss expressed surprise at the the timing of Stokes's departure. Like many people I was dumbfounded yesterday (Sunday) when the whispers started coming out that Ben Stokes was about to announce his retirement, Strauss said on LinkedIn. Strauss, hailed Stokes as one of England's genuine greatsbut added: I'm not convinced that the whole thing was orchestrated the right way yesterday - it seems like a huge distraction to a team that was battling to avoid a series defeat and the cricket in the last session very much had an 'end of term' feel to it. Everyone has the right to bow out on their own terms, and no-one has earned that more than Ben, but announcing before or after the game seems like a more sensible approach. When you are in the middle of a match, the only thing that matters is the performance of the team. Also Read: Live Cricket Score It is a small gripe in the greater scheme of things. English cricket will be far worse (and less interesting!) without Ben involved... There will be a huge vacuum in the England team that will be impossible to fill.

Tom Latham Hails 'Old School' New Zealand After Downing England

New Zealand captain Tom Latham hailed his side's old-school cricket after they became the first team to come from behind and win a three-match Test series in England after thrashing their hosts by 160 runs at Trent Bridge. Having reduced England to 103-4 overnight, they finished the job an hour after lunch on Monday's fifth day, with only Jamie Smith (60) offering much resistance. Victory sealed just New Zealand's fourth series win in England following successes in 1986, 1999 and, in a two-match series, 2021. Their triumph was all the more admirable given Kane Williamson, arguably New Zealand's greatest batsmen, retired from international cricket following a heavy defeat in the first Test at Lord's. Matt Henry and Glenn Phillips, two of the stars of their thumping 253-run win in the second Test at the Oval, with 11 wickets and a hundred respectively, were then ruled out of the Nottingham decider through injury. New Zealand also rested towering fast bowler Kyle Jamieson at Trent Bridge because of concerns over his workload. They suffered further disruption when Blair Tickner pulled out during the series finale with concussion, while Will O'Rourke suffered a hamstring injury on Monday to leave the attack severely depleted. - 'Boring as possible' - But seamer Zak Foulkes, the Black Caps' first concussion substitute in Test cricket, responded to his unexpected call-up with impressive match figures of 6-87. New Zealand's nagging accuracy, well supported by wicket-keeper Tom Blundell standing up to the stumps, frustrated England, with Foulkes saying during the game New Zealand had just tried to stay as boring as possible really and try to dry out the runs. New Zealand's approach contrasted markedly with the aggressive 'Bazball' style of England, who were utterly unable to send Ben Stokes out with a win after their talismanic captain's shock announcement on Sunday he would be retiring from international cricket at the end of this match. Latham whose first-innings 151, was one of three New Zealand hundreds in the match, was asked if teams had to be brave to be boring in modern cricket. Yeah I think so, I guess when you need to go a little bit old-school that's something that we pride ourselves on, he told reporters. Superb fielding helped New Zealand overcome their bowling setbacks, with direct hits from Henry Nicholls and Mitch Santner running out both Joe Root and Josh Tongue on Monday. Those two run outs today show the guys are engaged and giving everything theyve got, said Daryl Mitchell, struck black and blue during the course of a defiant unbeaten hundred in New Zealand's second innings. We put a lot of work into that, added Mitchell, the player-of-the-match. This series win is very special for our group. England coach Brendon McCullum, himself a former New Zealand captain, was well aware of the qualities that led to his adopted side's seventh defeat in nine Tests. New Zealand are a side that do simple things really well for a long period of time, he said. They also seize really key moments and I look at even two direct hit run-outs today, it's a significant impact on the final day of a Test match. McCullum defended England's blazing hitting on Sunday, which included promoting Stokes to open the innings, as the only way they could hope to chase down a target of 373 on a wearing pitch. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Anywhere between 250 to 290 on the last day is achievable, anything over that and you're going to start to be a little bit in danger so we knew we had to take a risk because we far behind the game, he insisted. And it was a risk worth taking.

French Open champion Andreeva beats Linette in Wimbledon first round

Mirra Andreeva used her big serve to great effect with eight aces but she also produced seven double faults as she tried to outgun the experienced Linette, 15 years her senior

Djokovic sees off inspired Wu to reach Wimbledon second round

The Serb duly wrapped up the physically draining match on serve to set up an intriguing meeting with Stefanos Tsitsipas