Cricket

India vs New Zealand, 3rd ODI- Who will win today IND vs NZ match?

IND vs NZ, 3rd ODI , Cricket Tips :New Zealand showed great character and made a stunning comeback in the ongoing ODI series and beat India by seven wickets in the second ODI in Rajkot. Daryl Mitchell scored yet another century and didn't allow any Indian bowlers to get away easily. Now, these two teams will take on each other in the third and final ODI. The upcoming game will be held at Holkar Cricket Stadium in Indore on January 19 at 1:30 PM IST. This Indian side is way more experienced than New Zealand, but they will be under more pressure. Because New Zealand don't have much to lose, as they have already sent their second-string side. But India can't afford to lose this series with their almost full-strength side. IND vs NZ: Match Details Date : January 18, 2025 (Sunday) Time : 1:30 PM IST Venue : Holkar Cricket Stadium, Rajkot IND vs NZ: Live Streaming Details The final ODI between India and New Zealand will be available live on the Star Sports Network, which will be available on all cable TV networks in India. Fans can either watch the game through the Jio Hotstar streaming platform. IND vs NZ: Head-to-Head in ODI Total Matches : 122 India : 63 New Zealand : 51 No-result : 08 IND vs NZ: Ground Pitch Report The wicket in Indore is a flat one, and it is largely in favor of the batters. India have even scored 400+ at this venue in ODIs, and it has a first-inning average score of more than 290. It will be another tough game for the bowlers and a treat for the batters from both teams. IND vs NZ: Possible XIs India : Rohit Sharma , Shubman Gill (c), Shreyas Iyer , Virat Kohli, KL Rahul (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Harshit Rana, Kuldeep Yadav, Md. Siraj, Prasidh Krishna New Zealand : Devon Conway, Henry Nicholls, Will Young, Glenn Phillips, Daryl Mitchell, Mitchell Hay (wk), Michael Bracewell (c), Kristian Clarke, Zakary Foulkes, Kyle Jamieson, Jayden Lennox IND vs NZ: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Virat Kohli is the no. 1 ranked ODI batter, and one can expect him to continue his form and score a century here. Daryl Mitchell is the no. 2 ranked ODI batter, and he has shown his good form and scored the most runs in this series. Probable Best Bowler Kyle Jamieson has troubled Indian batters and has the most wickets so far. Indian batters have found it hard to bat against him. For India, it is important to take early wickets, and Harshit Rana has done it in both games. Today Match Prediction : New Zealand showed that they are here to win and can do it again. But if we look at these two sides, India look far better because of their experience and fans will expect them to come good in this series decider. IND vs NZ Match 3rd ODI, Today Match IND vs NZ, IND vs NZ Prediction, IND vs NZ Predicted XIs, Injury Update of the match between India vs New Zealand 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.

Mandhana, Voll, bowlers make it four in four for RCB

Shafali Verma's half-century in vain for Delhi Capitals as they remain at the bottom of the table

WPL 2026: Mandhana's Masterclass Keeps RCB Unbeaten With Fourth Win

DY Patil Sports Academy: Smriti Mandhana fell heartbreakingly short of a maiden Women's Premier League (WPL) century, but her commanding 96 set up Royal Challengers Bengalurus (RCB) emphatic eight-wicket win over Delhi Capitals, as RCB made it four wins in as many matches to remain unbeaten at the top of the WPL 2026 points table at the Dr. DY Patil Sports Academy. As RCB chased down a target of 167, they wrapped up their last game of the Navi Mumbai leg comfortably with ten balls remaining. This comprehensive victory was slightly tempered by the fact that Smriti Mandhana was out for 96 in 61 balls for RCB, denying the league its first century. Earlier, Smriti Mandhana decided to bowl after winning the toss, which reaped immediate benefits for RCB. Lauren Bell had an incredible first over, causing damage to DC with two early wickets, Lizee Lee (4) and Laura Wolvaardt (0). The pressure increased when Sayali Satghare, stepping in for Ellyse Perry, took two wickets in her next over. She bowled out Jemimah Rodrigues and Marizanne Kapp on consecutive deliveries, leaving DC in a tough spot at 10/4 within two overs. DC found themselves in a very difficult position; however, Shafali Verma came out swinging, scoring 62 off just 41 deliveries and hitting five fours and four sixes. She formed a crucial 59-run partnership for the fifth wicket with Niki Prasad, who had a tough outing after being dropped by Gautami Naik in the last over of the powerplay. Niki managed just 12 runs. Shafali continued her offensive in the middle overs, getting good support from Sneh Rana, who contributed 22 runs off 22 balls. After Bell dismissed Shafali in the 17th over, debutant Lucy Hamilton provided a late boost with a bold 36 off 19 balls, while N Sree Charani chipped in with 11 runs. DC was bowled out on the final ball, reaching a total of 166. The bowlers for RCB shared the wickets, with Bell taking 3/26 and Satghare 3/27. Prema Rawat claimed 2/16, and Nadine de Klerk added 1/31, as Nandani Sharma was run out off the last delivery. DC found themselves in a very difficult position; however, Shafali Verma came out swinging, scoring 62 off just 41 deliveries and hitting five fours and four sixes. She formed a crucial 59-run partnership for the fifth wicket with Niki Prasad, who had a tough outing after being dropped by Gautami Naik in the last over of the powerplay. Niki managed just 12 runs. Shafali continued her offensive in the middle overs, getting good support from Sneh Rana, who contributed 22 runs off 22 balls. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief scores: Delhi Capitals 166/10 in 20 overs (Shafali Verma 62, Lucy Hamilton 36; Lauren Bell 3-26, Sayali Satghare 3-27) lost to Royal Challengers Bengaluru 169/2 in 18.2 overs (Smriti Mandhana 96, Georgia Voll 54 not out; Marizanne Kapp 1-21, Nandini Sharma 1-34) by eight wickets. Article Source: IANS

U19 World Cup: Malhotra Leads Stunning Turnaround As India Down Bangladesh By 18 Runs

U19 World Cup: A stirring all-round effort from Vihaan Malhotra (4 for 14), backed by a blazing half-century from Vaibhav Suryavanshi (72), powered India to an 18-run victory over Bangladesh via DLS method in their second match of the tournament at the Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo. After losing two wickets in the third over, India struggled early in the match as captain Ayush Mhatre was dismissed for 6 and Vedant Trivedi made a golden duck in the third over. As the wickets continued to fall around him, Suryavanshi remained calm and continued to play an aggressive innings with regular boundaries. Near the end of the powerplay, Bangladesh struck again when they dismissed Malhotra for 7 and continued to place pressure on India early in the match. Suryavanshi reached his 50 in just 30 balls and looked to ignite a revival for India with the partnership of Abhigyan Kundu. Just as India looked like they were getting back on track, Iqbal Hossain Emon reversed the momentum by taking two wickets in quick succession and stopping India's charge including the key wicket of Suryanvanshi (72). Abhigyan Kundu continued the charge of India's batting and scored an impressive half-century before rain caused the first stoppage of the match and cut the match to 49 overs a side. India were eventually bowled out for a score of 238, while Kundu had accumulated an individual score of 80 prior to that happening after the rain had stopped and play had commenced. Just as India looked like they were getting back on track, Iqbal Hossain Emon reversed the momentum by taking two wickets in quick succession and stopping India's charge including the key wicket of Suryanvanshi (72). Abhigyan Kundu continued the charge of India's batting and scored an impressive half-century before rain caused the first stoppage of the match and cut the match to 49 overs a side. Also Read: Live Cricket Score At the conclusion of 20 overs, Bangladesh looked to be in control with a total of 102 runs from 2 wickets. The changeover of Vihaan Malhotra coming back into bowl ended a 44-run partnership that started Bangladesh's collapse. Azizul Hakim Tamim helped support Bangladesh's position with a six and also reached a half-century during this period. However, Malhotra had a second spell and continued to build pressure when Khilan Patel took his wicket, resulting in Bangladesh losing their last eight wickets for only 40 runs as Malhotra and Patel continued their run of wickets. Henil Patel took the last wicket as India completed an impressive 18-run victory. Article Source: IANS

Shreyanka Patil Returns As BCCI Announce Womens White Ball Squads For Australia Tour

Sydney Cricket Ground: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Saturday announced Indias womens squads for the upcoming tour of Australia, with spinner Shreyanka Patil making her return to the T20I side after a long injury layoff. The multi-format tour will include three T20 matches, three One-Day Internationals, and a one-off Test starting on February 15. Harmanpreet Kaur will lead India in both the ODI and T20I formats, with Smriti Mandhana continuing as vice-captain, while the Test squad will be named at a later date. The highly anticipated multi-format series between India Women and Australia Women is scheduled to take place from February 15 to March 9, 2026. The tour will commence with the T20I series, featuring the first match at the Sydney Cricket Ground on February 15, followed by the second T20I at the Manuka Oval in Canberra on February 19, and concluding with the third match at the Adelaide Oval on February 21. Following the T20Is, the focus will shift to the ODI series, beginning on February 24 at Allan Border Field in Brisbane. The teams will then travel to Hobarts Bellerive Oval for the second and third ODIs, scheduled for February 27 and March 1, respectively. The tour will culminate with the prestigious one-off Test match, a four-day contest set to be played from March 6 to March 9 at the Perth Stadium. The T20I series against Australia will be crucial preparation for the upcoming ICC Womens T20 World Cup 2026, scheduled to be held in June. Indias T20I squad features a mix of experienced players and exciting young talent. The batting line-up includes the explosive Shafali Verma along with consistent performers such as Jemimah Rodrigues. Shreyanka , who last represented India at the 2024 T20 World Cup, returns to the T20I setup after missing action for nearly 14 months due to injuries to her shin, wrist and thumb. Richa Ghosh and G Kamalini have been named as the wicketkeeping options for both white-ball formats. The T20I series against Australia will be crucial preparation for the upcoming ICC Womens T20 World Cup 2026, scheduled to be held in June. Indias T20I squad features a mix of experienced players and exciting young talent. The batting line-up includes the explosive Shafali Verma along with consistent performers such as Jemimah Rodrigues. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Indias ODI squad: Harmanpreet Kaur (C), Smriti Mandhana (VC), Shafali Verma, Renuka Thakur, Sree Charani, Vaishnavi Sharma, Kranti Gaud, Sneh Rana, Deepti Sharma, Richa Ghosh (WK), G Kamalini (WK), Kashvee Gautam, Amanjot Kaur, Jemimah Rodrigues, Harleen Deol Article Source: IANS

Fulmali, Patil back in India T20I squad for Australia tour

Harleen Deol has been left out of T20I squad while Uma Chetry, Arundhati Reddy and Radha Yadav are dropped from the title-winning ODI squad

WPL 2026: Shafali Verma's Brilliant 62 Lifts Delhi Capitals To 166 Against RCB

DY Patil Sports Academy: Shafali Verma displayed a batting masterclass, scoring 62 off 41 deliveries, as Lucy Hamilton and Sneh Rana came up with handy contributions to lift Delhi Capitals to a fighting total of 166 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the 11th match of the Women's Premier League (WPL) 2026, here at the Dr. DY Patil Sports Academy. At one point, DC seemed likely to finish with a low score, struggling to get to 100. However, a mix of aggressive batting and important contributions from the lower order changed the game. After Smriti Mandhana won the toss and chose to bowl, Royal Challengers Bengaluru started strong. Lauren Bell made an impressive start, taking out Lizelle Lee and Laura Wolvaardt in the first over, leaving DC in trouble. The situation worsened when Sayali Satghare, playing in place of Ellyse Perry, marked her RCB debut in the WPL with a remarkable double-wicket over, dismissing Jemimah Rodrigues and Marizanne Kapp on consecutive balls. With wickets falling quickly, DC faced serious challenges during the powerplay and middle overs. Shafali Verma revived the innings with an aggressive approach. She took the fight to the RCB bowlers and put together a crucial 59-run partnership for the fifth wicket with Niki Prasad, helping to stabilize the innings while keeping the runs coming. Shafali then joined Sneh Rana for an important 34-run partnership for the seventh wicket, preventing DC from losing all momentum. Along the way, Shafali reached her seventh WPL half-century, eventually scoring 62 runs off 41 balls. Lucy Hamilton provided a late boost with a quick 36 runs off just 19 balls, helping DC surpass the 150-run mark and move toward a competitive total. DC were ultimately bowled out on the last ball of the innings. Shafali Verma revived the innings with an aggressive approach. She took the fight to the RCB bowlers and put together a crucial 59-run partnership for the fifth wicket with Niki Prasad, helping to stabilize the innings while keeping the runs coming. Shafali then joined Sneh Rana for an important 34-run partnership for the seventh wicket, preventing DC from losing all momentum. Along the way, Shafali reached her seventh WPL half-century, eventually scoring 62 runs off 41 balls. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief scores: Delhi Capitals 166/10 in 20 overs (Shafali Verma 62, Lucy Hamilton 36; Lauren Bell 3-26, Sayali Satghare 3-27) against Royal Chaleengers Bengaluru Article Source: IANS

Pakistan Team Creates World Record For Lowest Target Defended In First-Class Cricket

A Pakistan's domestic team created a world record of defending the lowest target in all first-class cricket when they stopped the opposition in a chase of just 40 runs. Pakistan Television (PTV), defending champions in the President Trophy, shot Sui Northern Gas (SNGPL) for a paltry 37 to win the match by a mere two runs on day three of the four-day game. This becomes a new record in 253 years of first-class cricket, beating England's Oldfield's 1794 feat when they successfully defended 41 against MCC at the Lord's Old Ground to win by six runs. PTV's head coach Mohammad Waseem praised his team's historic effort. I am delighted with my team's world record effort, Waseem, a former Pakistan player, told AFP. My team's motto is to never give up, fight till the last ball. This is the not the first time, we have won all our three matches coming from well behind by remaining positive in all situations. The star-studded SNGPL batting led by Pakistan Test captain Shan Masood were bowled out in 19.4 overs with just one batter Saifullah Bangash crossing double figures with 14. Masood was out without scoring while Test players, Mohammad Ali made six and spinner Sajid Khan just three. Pakistan's international players Omair Bin Yousuf made six and Abdul Samad five. For the winners, left-arm spinner Ali Usman wrecked the batting with 6-9 and pacer Ammad Butt took 4-28 - the only two bowlers used in their second innings innings. Also Read: Live Cricket Score SNGPL's head coach is former Pakistan Test skipper Misbah-ul-Haq with another former captain Azhar Ali their batting coach.

Chinnaswamy Stadium gets government nod to host IPL and international matches

Royal Challengers Bengaluru's return though for IPL 2026 is still far from a done deal.

WPL 2026: 'Momentum Building At The Right Time,' Says Lanning After Warriorz Second Straight Win

Australian Phoebe Litchfield: UP Warriorz captain Meg Lanning hailed her sides planning, execution and growing confidence after they registered their second consecutive victory in the Womens Premier League, handing Mumbai Indians their second straight defeat. Lanning, who was named Player of the Match, said the win was a significant morale booster after a difficult start to the season. Reflecting on the turnaround, Lanning said the Warriorz had remained positive despite losing their first three matches of the campaign. It was a nice bounce-back for us. Losing the first three wasnt ideal, but the group stayed upbeat. We were confident in our ability and knew we just needed to bring it for a little bit longer, she said after the match. Warriorz set the tone with a strong batting performance, led by Lanning herself, who struck a fluent 70 off 45 balls, an innings that also saw her become the first player to register 11 half-centuries in WPL history. After the early loss of opener Kiran Navgire for a duck, Lanning found a reliable partner in fellow Australian Phoebe Litchfield, with the duo stitching together a crucial 119-run stand. Lanning praised the clarity in preparation that has helped the team deliver back-to-back wins against quality opposition. We did a lot of planning. We spoke a lot about how we wanted to execute. Theyve got some pretty strong batters, so you need very clear plans against them. I think in the last two games, weve really nailed that planning process, she said. She added that the off-field work has translated well into on-field results. Then we came out into the game very clear about what we wanted to do. Its been nice to have that work off the field transfer into execution on the field as well. The UP skipper also highlighted her growing understanding with Litchfield at the crease, crediting the young batter for taking pressure off her with an attacking approach. Its nice batting with Phoebe Litchfield. We hit to different areas of the ground, and I think we complement each other really well. Were starting to understand each others games too, so we can help each other out when needed. She took a lot of pressure off me with the strike rate she had, Lanning said. Despite posting a competitive total, Lanning felt there was still room for improvement with the bat, particularly at the death. I think we can finish off our batting innings a little bit better. I thought Mumbai bowled extremely well and took the pace right off. So its about adjusting to that and making sure we can finish strongly and carry momentum into the second innings, she noted. UP Warriorz then backed up their batting effort with a disciplined bowling display, tightening the screws in key phases to restrict the Mumbai Indians and secure the win. The collective effort with the ball underlined the teams improved execution, something Lanning believes will be crucial going forward. Despite posting a competitive total, Lanning felt there was still room for improvement with the bat, particularly at the death. I think we can finish off our batting innings a little bit better. I thought Mumbai bowled extremely well and took the pace right off. So its about adjusting to that and making sure we can finish strongly and carry momentum into the second innings, she noted. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With two wins on the trot, the Warriorz now head to Vadodara with renewed confidence and momentum. To come out and play against a really good Mumbai side and get two wins on the trot gives us some really nice momentum heading into Vadodara now, Lanning concluded. Article Source: IANS

Markram and spinners keep DSG alive with demolition of Royals

DSG move up to fourth and hope that other results go their way

No handshakes between India and Bangladesh at toss of U-19 World Cup match

BCB statement says the absence of a handshake was unintentional on their part

Absence Of Handshake With India Captain In U19 WC Was Completely Unintentional: BCB

The Bangladesh Cricket Board: The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) on Saturday said the absence of a customary handshake at the toss before their 2026 ICC Under-19 World Cup against India at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo was completely unintentional and caused due to a momentary lapse in concentration. With regular captain Azizul Hakim sidelined by illness, vice-captain Zawad Abrar represented Bangladesh at the toss, where he did not shake hands with India skipper Ayush Mhatre. The incident drew attention before the start of play, which was delayed by rain, with Bangladesh electing to field first after winning the toss. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has taken note of an inadvertent and unwarranted action that occurred at the toss prior to the opening match of the ICC Under 19 World Cup 2026, Zimbabwe & Namibia, between Bangladesh and India. Due to illness, regular captain Azizul Hakim was unable to attend the toss, and vice-captain Zawad Abrar represented the team on the occasion. The BCB wishes to clarify that the absence of a handshake with the opposition captain was completely unintentional and resulted from a momentary lapse in concentration. There was no intent whatsoever to show discourtesy or disregard towards the opposition. The Board has viewed the matter with due seriousness, as upholding the spirit of cricket and respect for opponents is a fundamental prerequisite for representing Bangladesh at any level and immediately advised the team management accordingly. The players have also been reminded of their responsibility to maintain the highest standards of sportsmanship, camaraderie and mutual respect in all interactions with opposing teams. The Bangladesh Cricket Board remains fully committed to the values of cricket, both on and off the field, said the BCB in its statement. The Board has viewed the matter with due seriousness, as upholding the spirit of cricket and respect for opponents is a fundamental prerequisite for representing Bangladesh at any level and immediately advised the team management accordingly. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The BCB is seeking to avoid playing its Mens T20 World Cup fixtures in India, especially after the BCCI requested IPL three-time winners Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to release Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman from its squad for the 2026 season. Article Source: IANS

WPL 2026: 'At This Level, You Cant Keep Making Mistakes,' Says Harmanpreet After MI Loss

DY Patil Stadium: Mumbai Indians captain Harmanpreet Kaur admitted that her sides repeated mistakes, particularly in the batting powerplay and in the field, proved costly as they suffered their second consecutive loss against UP Warriorz in the Womens Premier League (WPL) 2026 10th match at DY Patil Stadium on Saturday. Reflecting on the defeat, Harmanpreet said Mumbai had a clear plan while chasing a total of 187 runs, but failed to execute it as a unit. We wanted to chase as a group. Even though we didnt bowl well, we were still able to restrict them to under 200, which was a good thing. But in batting, we were not great in the power play, she said. The Mumbai skipper acknowledged that slow starts with the bat have been a recurring concern. Every game, we are not coming with a positive mindset in the powerplay. Thats something we really need to work on. If you dont start well, it puts a lot of pressure on the middle and lower order, Harmanpreet added. She also pointed to missed chances in the field as a major turning point, particularly during the decisive partnership between Meg Lanning and Phoebe Litchfield. The Australian duo put together a 119-run stand, laying the foundation for UP Warriorz imposing total of 187 for eight. They were batting really hard, and unfortunately, we missed a few chances. At this level, if you keep missing chances, the other team is going to put a lot of pressure on you, and thats exactly what happened today, Harmanpreet said. Mumbai Indians chase never fully gained momentum despite a spirited fightback from Amelia Kerr and Amanjot Kaur. Kerr scored a brisk 49 off 28 balls, while Amanjot struck 41 off 24 deliveries, adding a crucial partnership that briefly revived hopes of a win. Harmanpreet praised the duo for their effort. They both put us in a situation where we had a little hope that we could win the match. It was good to see them batting really well, and hopefully theyll continue, she said. Harmanpreet also highlighted the importance of young wicketkeeper Gunalan Kamalini, who impressed behind the stumps. She is a very important player for the team and is doing really great things behind the stumps. Hopefully, shell continue that, she noted. Mumbai Indians chase never fully gained momentum despite a spirited fightback from Amelia Kerr and Amanjot Kaur. Kerr scored a brisk 49 off 28 balls, while Amanjot struck 41 off 24 deliveries, adding a crucial partnership that briefly revived hopes of a win. Harmanpreet praised the duo for their effort. They both put us in a situation where we had a little hope that we could win the match. It was good to see them batting really well, and hopefully theyll continue, she said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Despite the setback, the Mumbai captain remained optimistic about future games. We have a very good side. If we come together and make fewer mistakes, it can really help us win matches. Its unfortunate we couldnt get a win today, but theres a lot to learn from this, Harmanpreet concluded. Article Source: IANS

BCB Stays Firm On Relocation Of Mens T20 WC Matches In Latest Round Of Talks With ICC

BCB President Md Aminul Islam: The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has again reiterated its request for Bangladeshs fixtures in the 2026 Mens T20 World Cup to be shifted to Sri Lanka in the latest round of talks with the International Cricket Council (ICC) representatives in Dhaka on Saturday. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) today held a meeting with representatives of the International Cricket Council (ICC) to discuss matters relating to Bangladeshs participation in the ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026. During the discussions, the BCB reiterated its formal request to the ICC to relocate Bangladeshs matches to Sri Lanka. The Board also shared the Bangladesh Governments views and concerns on safety and security of the team, Bangladeshi fans, media and other stakeholders, said the BCB in a statement on Saturday. BCB also said the possibility of having Bangladesh in a different group was also deliberated upon. Bangladesh's current itinerary of games goes as, facing West Indies on February 7, Italy on February 9, and England on February 14 at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata, before taking on Nepal on February 17 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. The discussions were conducted in a constructive, cordial and professional manner, with all parties engaging openly on the relevant issues. Among other points, the possibility of moving Bangladesh to a different group as a means of facilitating the matter with minimum logistical adjustments was discussed, added the BCB. India and Sri Lanka are set to co-host the 2026 Mens T20 World Cup starting on February 7. But the BCB has been adamant in its league stage matches be shifted to Sri Lanka amid security concerns and growing tensions between Bangladesh and India. It came after Indian Premier League (IPL) three-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) were asked by the BCCI to release Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman, the lone player from his country, for the 2026 season, amidst atrocities towards the minority Hindu community. BCB President Md Aminul Islam, Vice Presidents Md Shakawath Hossain and Faruque Ahmed, Cricket Operations Committee Chairman Nazmul Abedeen and Chief Executive Nizam Uddin Chowdhury represented the board in its meeting with ICC. It came after Indian Premier League (IPL) three-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) were asked by the BCCI to release Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman, the lone player from his country, for the 2026 season, amidst atrocities towards the minority Hindu community. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Gaurav Saxena was unable to attend the meeting in person, as his visa was received later than anticipated, and therefore joined the discussions virtually. Andrew Ephgrave attended the meeting in person. The BCB and the ICC have agreed to continue engaging in constructive dialogue on this matter, added the BCB. Article Source: IANS

M Chinnaswamy Stadium Given Permission To Host IPL, International Matches Again

Chhattisgarh CM Vishnu Deo Sai: The M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru has been cleared to host Indian Premier League (IPL) and international cricket matches again, the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) said on Saturday. We are pleased to announce that the Home department, Government of Karnataka, has granted permission to the Karnataka State Cricket Association to host international and IPL matches at the iconic venue. The permission is subject to compliance with specific terms and conditions prescribed by the government and concerned authorities, said Vinay Mruthyunjaya, KSCAs official spokesperson, in a statement. The formal approval for marquee cricket fixtures to return to the venue has ended months of uncertainty after the stadium was taken off the cricketing calendar following a stampede during Royal Challengers Bengalurus IPL 2025 title winning celebrations on June 4, when eleven people were killed, while 56 people suffered injuries. In its aftermath, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) shifted several major events away from the Chinnaswamy Stadium, including the Duleep Trophy, the IndiaSouth Africa mens A series, Vijay Hazare Trophy and 2025 ICC Womens ODI World Cup, including the final. Hosting matches at the ground again was subject to the implementation of recommendations from the Justice Michael DCunha report, which was formed as part of the investigation into the tragedy. KSCA is confident of fulfilling all the stipulated conditions. The Association has already presented a detailed compliance roadmap before the Expert Review Committee and remains fully committed to implementing all safety, security, and crowd-management measures in letter and spirit, added Mruthyunjaya. Hosting matches at the ground again was subject to the implementation of recommendations from the Justice Michael DCunha report, which was formed as part of the investigation into the tragedy. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With the state governments clearance now secured, it would be interesting to see if RCB will play all of its IPL 2026 home games in Chinnaswamy, considering that its vice-president Rajesh Menon met Chhattisgarh CM Vishnu Deo Sai for playing two games at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium in Naya Raipur. Article Source: IANS

Voll and Satghare in as RCB bowl with three changes

Delhi Capitals handed a debut to uncapped Australian Lucy Hamilton

U19 WC: Sri Lankas Chamuditha Sets Record For Highest Individual Score With 192 Against Japan

Cricket World Cup: Sri Lankas Viran Chamuditha has set a new record for the highest individual score in ICC Under-19 Mens Cricket World Cup history by hitting 192 against Japan at the Namibia Cricket Ground on Saturday. Chamuditha, the17-year-old opener from St. Servatius College, Matara, eclipsed his Sri Lankas compatriot Hasitha Boyagodas score of 191 set against Kenya in 2018, by striking 26 fours and a six before falling to Timothy Moore. Chamuditha shared a record-breaking 328-run opening stand with Dimantha Mahavithana, which is a new record for the biggest partnership for any wicket in the tournaments history, surpassing the 303-run effort by Englands Dan Lawrence and Jack Burnham against Fiji in 2016. Chamudithas innings added to a list of landmark knocks in the competition, joining Boyagoda, New Zealands Jakob Bhula (180 against Kenya in 2018), West Indies Donovan Pagon (176 against Scotland in 2002) and Englands Lawrence (174 against Fiji in 2016). The mammoth stand powered Sri Lanka to 388 in their opening match of the 2026 edition, leaving Japan facing a daunting chase. Chamuditha has played 17 Youth ODIs so far for Sri Lanka and had hit three fifties before hitting 192, also his maiden century in the 50-over format. Chamudithas innings added to a list of landmark knocks in the competition, joining Boyagoda, New Zealands Jakob Bhula (180 against Kenya in 2018), West Indies Donovan Pagon (176 against Scotland in 2002) and Englands Lawrence (174 against Fiji in 2016). Also Read: Live Cricket Score The Super Sixes and playoff rounds will also be split between the two hosts, before the knockout phase shifts entirely to Zimbabwe. Queens Sports Club and Harare Sports Club will stage the semi-finals on February 3 and 4, with the final set to be held in Harare on February 6. Article Source: IANS

WPL 2026: RCB Elect To Bowl As Hamilton Debuts For Delhi Capitals

Dr DY Patil Sports Academy: Royal Challengers Bengaluru won the toss and elected to bowl first against Delhi Capitals in the 11th match of the Women's Premier League (WPL) 2026, here at Dr DY Patil Sports Academy, Navi Mumbai. Delhi Capitals have drafted in Lucy Hamilton as a replacement for the injured Chinelle Henry, while Royal Challengers Bengaluru have overhauled their squad by bringing in Georgia Voll, Prema Rawat and Sayali Satghare in place of Arundhati Reddy, Linsey Smith and Dayalan Hemalatha. Royal Challengers Bengaluru captain Smriti Mandhana said, Yeah, I mean wherever we play we get good support. Everyone turns out in huge numbers. We will like to field first today. We have 3 changes today. Voll comes in for Linsey, Prema comes in for Hema and Sayalil comes in, Aru misses out because she is unwell today. Well unfortunately, Aru was unwell. There was a forced change. We always thought we were one batter short. Though, we won the first three games and it sends out right signal that we are not panicking and it is just based on team combination. Yeah, again for us. It is about doing smaller things right. Everyone is really looking to do small things right. What happens on the field is because of hardword and this team works hard. Delhi Capitals captain Jemimah Rodrigues said, (On leading against Smriti Mandhana) No! I have led against her (Mandhana) in domestic cricket as well. It is always a fun rivalry. Not really. I didn't pick up her call. Yeah, 100%. We were happy either batting or bowling first. Our gameplan remains the same. Sometimes losing the toss is good. They will be batting fourth on this wicket. We have one change. Chinelle Henry is out due to an injury in the last game. Lucy Hamilton is in and making her debut tonight. We have played together for Brisbane Heat. She is the youngster. She also led Australia's Under-19 side. She is someone who is sorted and has a good head on her shoulders. Playing XIs: Delhi Capitals captain Jemimah Rodrigues said, (On leading against Smriti Mandhana) No! I have led against her (Mandhana) in domestic cricket as well. It is always a fun rivalry. Not really. I didn't pick up her call. Yeah, 100%. We were happy either batting or bowling first. Our gameplan remains the same. Sometimes losing the toss is good. They will be batting fourth on this wicket. We have one change. Chinelle Henry is out due to an injury in the last game. Lucy Hamilton is in and making her debut tonight. We have played together for Brisbane Heat. She is the youngster. She also led Australia's Under-19 side. She is someone who is sorted and has a good head on her shoulders. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Delhi Capitals Women: Shafali Verma, Lizelle Lee (wk), Laura Wolvaardt, Jemimah Rodrigues (c), Marizanne Kapp, Niki Prasad, Lucy Hamilton, Sneh Rana, Minnu Mani, Shree Charani, Nandani Sharma Article Source: IANS

Italy announce squad for maiden T20 World Cup appearance

Wayne Madsen to lead 15-member group that includes former SA international JJ Smuts

WPL 2026: Collective Bowling Effort Guides UP Warriorz To Second Straight Win Over Mumbai Indians

DY Patil Stadium: A commanding batting effort led by skipper Meg Lanning, followed by a disciplined and collective bowling performance, helped UP Warriorz register a convincing 22-run victory over defending champions Mumbai Indians in the Womens Premier League (WPL) 2026 10th match at the DY Patil Stadium here on Saturday. Mumbai Indians chase of a challenging 188-run target faltered despite a fighting effort in the end from Amanjot and Amelia Kerr, as they were restricted to 165 for six in 20 overs against UP Warriorz. The defending champions got off to a shaky start, losing early wickets that put them on the back foot from the outset. Opening batter Sajeevan Sajana (10) struggled to find rhythm and was dismissed cheaply inside the powerplay, while Hayley Matthews (13), returning to the side, failed to provide the explosive start Mumbai were hoping for. Matthews fell after making a brief contribution, leaving the Mumbai Indians in early trouble. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur attempted to steady the innings but found it difficult to break free against disciplined bowling from UP Warriorz. She was dismissed for a modest score of just 18 runs, further denting Mumbais chase and increasing the pressure on the middle order. With wickets falling at regular intervals, Mumbai Indians found themselves well behind the required run rate during the first half of the innings. The responsibility then fell on Amelia Kerr, who once again proved to be Mumbai Indians most impactful all-rounder. Kerr played a counter-attacking knock of 49 runs off 28 balls, striking the ball cleanly and targeting the shorter boundaries. Her innings included a mix of powerful strokes and clever placement, briefly reviving Mumbais hopes of pulling off the chase. Kerr found valuable support in Amanjot Kaur, who played one of her finest innings in the league. Amanjot scored a fluent 41 off just 24 deliveries, showing composure and intent as she rotated the strike well and punished loose balls. The duo added 83 runs for the fifth wicket, the most significant partnership of the Mumbai Indians innings, and brought the required rate down to manageable levels. However, UP Warriorz struck at a crucial moment to break the momentum. Shikha Pandey removed Amanjot Kaur with a well-directed delivery, ending the dangerous partnership and shifting the momentum back in Warriorzs favour. Kerr remained unbeaten but could not win the match for her team. The Warriorz bowling attack worked effectively as a unit, with Deepti Sharma controlling the tempo through tight overs and clever variations, while Sophie Ecclestone and Kranti Gaud applied pressure in the middle overs. Shikha Pandey finished with impressive figures, providing key breakthroughs when Mumbai looked to accelerate. Batting first after losing the toss, UP Warriorz recovered strongly from an early setback to post an imposing total of 187 for eight, a score that proved beyond Mumbai Indians reach despite a spirited fightback in the last overs. The Warriorz were jolted in the very first over when Kiran Navgire was bowled for a golden duck by Nicola Carey. However, captain Meg Lanning once again showcased her class and composure under pressure, forging a crucial partnership with fellow Australian Phoebe Litchfield to wrest back control of the innings. Lanning and Litchfield batted with authority and intelligence, combining caution with controlled aggression as they added 119 runs for the second wicket, the second-highest partnership for UP Warriorz in WPL history. Lanning anchored the stand with her trademark precision, finding gaps consistently and punishing loose deliveries, while Litchfield complemented her skipper with fluent strokeplay and fearless shot selection. Lanning brought up her half-century in just 33 balls with a towering six off Amelia Kerr, marking her 11th fifty in the league and setting a new WPL record. She eventually fell for a superb 70 off 45 deliveries, an innings studded with 11 fours and two sixes, while Litchfield departed soon after for an impressive 61 off 37 balls, having struck seven boundaries and three maximums. After the departure of the Australian duo, UP Warriorz continued to maintain momentum through brisk contributions from Chloe Tryon (21) and Harleen Deol (25). The late flourish ensured the Warriorz finished strongly despite a remarkable last over from Amelia Kerr, who claimed three wickets in quick succession to finish with figures of 3 for 28. Lanning brought up her half-century in just 33 balls with a towering six off Amelia Kerr, marking her 11th fifty in the league and setting a new WPL record. She eventually fell for a superb 70 off 45 deliveries, an innings studded with 11 fours and two sixes, while Litchfield departed soon after for an impressive 61 off 37 balls, having struck seven boundaries and three maximums. Also Read: Live Cricket Score UP Warriorz post 187/8 in 20 overs (Meg Lanning 70, Phoebe Litchfield 61; Amelia Kerr 3-28, Nat Sciver Brunt 2-22) beat Mumbai Indians 165/6 in 20 overs (Amelia Kerr 49 not out, Amanjot Kaur 41; Shikha Pandey 2-30, Chloe Tyron 1-18) by 22 runs Article Source: IANS

Lanning, Litchfield and Pandey help UPW do the league double over MI

A rejigged MI batting line-up faltered in the 188 chase, which came to life during the partnership between Amanjot and Kerr

Wayne Madsen To Captain Italy In Their Maiden Mens T20 World Cup Campaign

The Italian Cricket Federation: Experienced batter Wayne Madsen will captain Italy in their first appearance in the Mens T20 World Cup, set to happen in India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8. The Italian Cricket Federation had previously confirmed Madsen, who plays for Derbyshire in county cricket and is an Italian passport holder, as the sides captain after ex-Australia player Joe Burns was omitted from the squad for the tournament due to availability issues. Former South Africa batter Jon-Jon Smuts has also been named in Italys squad, after attending a camp for the side in Dubai last year. Smuts played six ODIs and 13 T20Is for South Africa from 2017 to 2021 and has qualified to play for India via his wife. Fast bowling all-rounder Grant Stewart, who plays county cricket for Kent, will also turn out for Italy as he has an EU passport through his Italian mother and has 17 T20I appearances so far via them. The Azzurri will mark their T20 World Cup debut in a Group C clash against Bangladesh on February 9 at Eden Gardens in Kolkata before facing Nepal at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai three days later. Italy will also face 2010 England in Kolkata on February 16, before taking on two-time champions West Indies at the same venue on February 19. Fast bowling all-rounder Grant Stewart, who plays county cricket for Kent, will also turn out for Italy as he has an EU passport through his Italian mother and has 17 T20I appearances so far via them. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Italy squad: Wayne Madsen (captain), Marcus Campopiano (wk), Gian Piero Meade, Zain Ali, Ali Hasan, Crishan Jorge, Harry Manenti, Anthony Mosca, Justin Mosca, Syed Naqvi, Benjamin Manenti, Jaspreet Singh, JJ Smuts, Grant Stewart, and Thomas Draca Article Source: IANS

Dubey and Desai's chance to inspire as Vidarbha take on Saurashtra for Vijay Hazare title

Both teams are in the middle of a transition but neither has lost their edge

3rd ODI: Dont Think Theres Any Concern Over Jadejas Form, Says Siraj Ahead Of Series Decider

T20 World Cup: India pacer Mohammed Siraj played down concerns over Ravindra Jadejas recent lean in ODIs, insisting that the veteran all-rounder remains a key figure in their preparation for the series decider against New Zealand, set to happen at the Holkar Stadium on Sunday. Jadejas recent returns with the ball have raised eyebrows, as he has managed just one wicket in his last five ODIs. In the current series against New Zealand, tied currently at 1-1, the spotlight will be on him after going wicketless in Rajkot, where he conceded 44 runs in eight overs. I dont think there is any concern about Jadejas form. It is a matter of just one wicket. Once he gets that breakthrough, you will see a different bowler altogether, Siraj said in the pre-match press conference on Saturday. He also equalled the decider in Indore to playing a World Cup final. The atmosphere is very good because we are getting a lot of input from the seniors. We won the first match and then played the second, so it feels like a high-pressure situation, almost like a World Cup final. Such situations are very rare in India, so it is a great opportunity for us. New Zealand batting all-rounder Daryl Mitchell has emerged as Indias perennial tormentor, as seen from him making 84 in Vadodara before hitting an unbeaten 131 in Rajkot that earned him the Player of the Match award. Taking out Mitchell early will be the key again for India in Sundays decider. We tried our best to get him out (in Rajkot). We had a game plan for him. As you can see, even a world-class batter can make mistakes. If we had grabbed that opportunity (that dropped chance of him), the scenario would have been different. The way he bats against spin, especially in the middle overs - taking singles and doubles - shows that he is thinking clearly and batting with a plan. In Rajkot, there wasn't much dew and the ball was coming nicely onto the bat. Our plan was to get him out as early as possible, and we will try to do the same in this match, said Siraj. The pacer, who was a member of the Indian team winning 2024 Mens T20 World Cup, signed off by wishing the Suryakumar Yadav-led squad good luck for their title defence starting from next month. Siraj missed out on being part of the squad for the upcoming mega event due to him being needed more in playing Tests than white-ball games. The way he bats against spin, especially in the middle overs - taking singles and doubles - shows that he is thinking clearly and batting with a plan. In Rajkot, there wasn't much dew and the ball was coming nicely onto the bat. Our plan was to get him out as early as possible, and we will try to do the same in this match, said Siraj. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I played the T20 World Cup last time but not this time so obviously, playing a World Cup is a dream for every player. But its ok, the team that has been selected looks very good on paper, everyone is in form. I just wish them good luck, the trophy is here only for now and it should stay here. Article Source: IANS

3rd ODI: India, NZ Head Into Series Decider With Milestones In Mind (Preview)

Star Sports Network: Rajkot witnessed the class of KL Rahul, but improved bowling and the might of Daryl Mitchell gave New Zealand the last laugh as the visitors outclassed India to clinch a seven-wicket win and level the series 1-1. All eyes now turn to Indore, as India and New Zealand battle it out in the series decider. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will be in international action for one final time until the next ODI assignment in July. The opening batter is 17 runs away from becoming the 7th opener with 16000 international runs. Meanwhile, Kohli reclaimed the top spot in the ICC mens ODI rankings and has scored at least one 50+ in 24 different Indian venues in the format. But Indore remains one of four venues where hes yet to hit a fifty. Rahul came to Indias rescue with another outstanding performance, scoring an exhilarating 112 not out off 92 balls to help his team reach a respectable total as the rest struggled. His performance against the Kiwis continues to improve, with 469 runs in 10 innings at an average of 93.8, including a half-century and two centuries. He will aim to make another significant contribution when the teams face off on Sunday. Run-machine Daryl Mitchell keeps challenging the Men in Blue. He has scored three centuries in his last four ODI innings against India in India, reaching over 130 runs each time. The 34-year-old aims to fire up his performance again to help secure a notable series victory. India have an undefeated record at Indore, winning all seven ODIs played there. In their most recent matches in 2023, they scored 399/5 versus Australia and 385/9 against New Zealand. Moreover, skipper Shubman Gill is 70 runs away from reaching 3000 ODI runs. Hes scored centuries in both matches he has played at Indores Holkar Stadium and will be looking to maintain that form. Indias premier spinner, Kuldeep Yadav, had a poor outing in the previous game, conceding 82 runs in his 10-over spell while taking only one wicket, and will look to bounce back in the deciding game. As for New Zealand, Devon Conway crafted a classy 138 off 100 against India when the two sides last met at this venue in January 2023, and hell be among the Kiwi players to watch out for. Theres plenty at stake in the upcoming series finale. Gill has one more chance to win his first home ODI series as Indias captain. As for New Zealand, they are one win away from a first-ever ODI bilateral series win in India. When: Sunday, Jan 18, 1:30 PM IST Where: Holkar Stadium, Indore Where to watch: Star Sports Network for live TV broadcast and JioHotstar for live streaming Squads Where to watch: Star Sports Network for live TV broadcast and JioHotstar for live streaming Also Read: Live Cricket Score New Zealand: Devon Conway (wk), Will Young, Henry Nicholls, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell (c), Zakary Foulkes, Nick Kelly, Josh Clarkson, Michael Rae, Kyle Jamieson, Mitchell Hay, Adithya Ashok, Kristian Clarke, Jayden Lennox Article Source: IANS

WPL 2026: Lanning, Litchfield Guide UP Warriorz To 187 Against Mumbai Indians

DY Patil Stadium: An impressive batting effort by captain Meg Lanning and Phoebe Litchfield propelled UP Warriorz to 187/8 against Mumbai Indians, despite a dramatic final over by Amelia Kerr, in their Womens Premier League match here at the DY Patil Stadium on Saturday. UP Warriorz suffered an early setback when Kiran Navgire was bowled for a golden duck in the first over by Nicola Carey, but Lanning and Litchfield quickly got the innings under control with a 119-run second-wicket partnership. The duo mixed timing with power to punish loose deliveries, taking advantage of some sloppy fielding by the Mumbai Indians, who dropped chances and missed run-out opportunities at crucial moments. Lanning played the anchor role with a fluent 70 off 45 balls, striking 11 fours and two sixes, while Litchfield provided the acceleration with a fiery knock of 61 off 37 deliveries, laced with seven fours and three sixes. Their impressive stand laid a solid platform and put the Mumbai bowlers under sustained pressure. After Litchfield was caught at deep square leg, Lanning continued the onslaught before falling to Hayley Matthews. Chloe Tryon and Harleen Deol then added valuable runs in the middle and death overs, with Harleen striking a quick 25 off 16 balls to keep the momentum going. Mumbai Indians, however, fought back strongly at the death through Amelia Kerr, who produced a sensational final over. The New Zealand leg-spinner claimed three wickets in the last over, removing Harleen Deol, Sophie Ecclestone and Deepti Sharma, finishing with brilliant figures of 3-28 that helped restrict the Warriorz from crossing the 190-run mark. Earlier, Nat Sciver-Brunt picked up two wickets, and Nichola Carey also got one wicket to her name. After Litchfield was caught at deep square leg, Lanning continued the onslaught before falling to Hayley Matthews. Chloe Tryon and Harleen Deol then added valuable runs in the middle and death overs, with Harleen striking a quick 25 off 16 balls to keep the momentum going. Also Read: Live Cricket Score UP Warriorz post 187/8 in 20 overs (Meg Lanning 70, Phoebe Litchfield 61, Harleen Deol 25 ; Amelia Kerr 3-28, Nat Schiver Brunt 2-22) against Mumbai Indians Article Source: IANS

An Se-young Dispatches Intanon In 32 Minutes To Enter BWF India Open Final

Indira Gandhi Sports Complex: World No. 1 An Se-young advanced to the second final of the 2026 season after defeating World No. 8 Ratchanok Intanon of Thailand in just 32 minutes in the semifinal of the BWF Super 750 India Open on Saturday. Se-young registered a straight-game win 21-11, 21-7 over Intanon, here at the Indira Gandhi Sports Complex. An Se-young dominated the proceedings from the start as she raced to an early advantage by scoring six consecutive points, setting the tone for the opening game. With sharp control she never allowed her opponent to settle, comfortably closing out the first game 2111. The second game began on a more even footing, with both players trading points in the early stages to reach 44. However, that brief resistance was broken as An Se-young raised her intensity. She went on a devastating run of points, surging ahead to a commanding 165 lead. Maintaining her consistency, An finished the match with error-free play and sealed victory by taking the second game 217 to complete a dominant straight-game win. By defeating Intanon, Se Young extended her winning streak to a personal-best 29 consecutive match victories. She began the season in impressive fashion at the Malaysia Open, where she claimed her third straight title. Now, with a place in the India Open final, she is on the verge of lifting back-to-back titles in consecutive weeks. Last year, the Korean star captured 11 titles in a single season and made history by becoming the first badminton player to earn more than USD 1 million in prize money in a calendar year. Her triumph at the BWF World Tour Finals, which carried a prize of USD 240,000, pushed her total earnings for the year to USD 1,003,175. By defeating Intanon, Se Young extended her winning streak to a personal-best 29 consecutive match victories. She began the season in impressive fashion at the Malaysia Open, where she claimed her third straight title. Now, with a place in the India Open final, she is on the verge of lifting back-to-back titles in consecutive weeks. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I think every match is a new feeling. She's a very good player, and she's a very good attacking player. So I don't know how hard she will play tomorrow's match, Se Young said of her final match-up with Wang, who defeated world no.4 Chen Yu Fei 15-21, 23-21 to seal a place in the final. Article Source: IANS

Pakistan TV break 232-year-old record for lowest total defended in first-class cricket

PTV defended a target of 40 against SNGPL in the President's Trophy

U19 WC: India, Bangladesh Captains Refuse Handshake At Toss

Queens Sports Club: India's captain Ayush Mhatre and Bangladesh's vice-captain Zawad Abrar declined the usual handshake at the toss of a Group A match in the ICC Under-19 World Cup at Queens Sports Club on Saturday, signalling of the ongoing tension between the neighbouring countries. During the toss, delayed by more than 15 minutes due to drizzle, neither India's captain Mhatre nor Bangladesh's vice-captain Abrar, who walked out for the toss, initiated the traditional exchange of pleasantries. After Bangladesh won the toss and opted to bowl first against India, both captains just conducted their interviews and then went to their dressing rooms. This stems from the no-handshake protocol adopted by the Indian men's team during the Men's Asia Cup in September 2025. In all three matches of the tournament, the Indian team did not shake hands with the Pakistan players. Additionally, they refused to accept the trophy from Asian Cricket Council (ACC) President Mohsin Naqvi, who is also Pakistan's Interior Minister. Later, in the ICC Womens ODI World Cup match, India captain Harmanpreet Kaur upheld the 'no handshake' policy. Moreover, during last month's U19 Asia Cup, India maintained a 'no handshake' policy during their group-stage fixture against arch-rivals Pakistan. This stems from the no-handshake protocol adopted by the Indian men's team during the Men's Asia Cup in September 2025. In all three matches of the tournament, the Indian team did not shake hands with the Pakistan players. Additionally, they refused to accept the trophy from Asian Cricket Council (ACC) President Mohsin Naqvi, who is also Pakistan's Interior Minister. Also Read: Live Cricket Score After the pacer's release, the Bangladesh Cricket Board initially refused to issue a no-objection certificate for Mustafizur to play in the IPL. As a result of the BCCI's decision, the BCB wrote to the ICC requesting that their T20 World Cup matches be moved to Sri Lanka, citing security concerns amid growing tensions between the two neighbouring nations. Article Source: IANS

MI bring in Matthews and Reddy, ask unchanged UPW to take first strike

Kranthi Reddy is making her WPL debut; MI have left out Shabnin Ismail and Poonam Khemnar

Wadia and Shamsi skittle poor Renegades as Strikers finish strongly

Neither side could progress to finals and Renegades finished with their worst performance of the season

India and NZ have selection concerns for series decider in high-scoring Indore

After a historic Test series win in India in 2024, New Zealand will aim for their maiden ODI series win in the country on Sunday

'50/50 Chance Of Surviving Reminded Me Of How Fragile Life Is': Damien Martyn On Meningitis Battle

Gold Coast University Hospital: After being discharged from the hospital following a bout of meningitis, Australian cricket great Damien Martyn shared a health update, saying he has started walking after life was taken out of my hands when meningitis took over my brain. Martyn, who represented Australia in 67 Test matches, fell ill with meningitis on Boxing Day and was taken to hospital on the Gold Coast late last month, where he was placed in an induced coma. He woke from the coma earlier this month, began speaking again, and was discharged from hospital. On the 27th of December 2025 my life was taken out of my handswhen meningitis took over my brain, & unbeknownst to me I was placed into a paralysed coma for 8 days to help me fight this awful disease. And that I did! Fight that is!. After being given a 50/50 chance of surviving, I came out of the induced coma 8 days laternot able to walk or talk. And yet 4 days after that, with the doctors in disbelief, I walked, I talked and proved to them all why I should be released from hospital to start my recovery, Martyn shared in a social media post. So happy to be home, to be able to put my feet in the sand on the beach and to start thanking all those people that reached out to me and my family in their unwavering support. This experience has reminded me of how fragile life is, how quickly everything can change & how precious time is! the post further read. There are so many wonderful people in this world from paramedics (at Mermaid Waters Ambulance), doctors & nurses (at Gold Coast University Hospital) to family, friends and people I didnt even know. I feel like I met all these fantastic people in the past 3 weeks, or they reached out to me through messages of love and support, he conlcuded. Martyn was instrumental in Australia's 2003 ODI World Cup final victory over India, scoring an unbeaten 88 despite batting with a broken finger and forming a crucial 234-run partnership with captain Ricky Ponting. There are so many wonderful people in this world from paramedics (at Mermaid Waters Ambulance), doctors & nurses (at Gold Coast University Hospital) to family, friends and people I didnt even know. I feel like I met all these fantastic people in the past 3 weeks, or they reached out to me through messages of love and support, he conlcuded. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Martyn also played 208 ODIs, scoring 5,346 runs at 40.90, with a top score of 144 not out. He made a famous 88 not out in the 2003 World Cup final, batting with a broken finger and sharing an epic partnership with captain Ricky Ponting as Australia beat India. Article Source: IANS

RCB Have Found A Way Again To Win This WPL Season: Deep Dasgupta

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Former India cricketer Deep Dasgupta lauded the Royal Challengers Bengalurus (RCB) efforts and their performance against the Gujarat Giants in the recently concluded Womens Premier League (WPL) 2026 game and stated that the 2024 champions have found a way to win again this year. RCB delivered a commanding performance against GG on Friday, demonstrating impressive resilience by bouncing back from 40/4 to reach 182, then effectively defending it through disciplined bowling. Speaking on JioHotstar, Dasgupta analysed RCBs comeback victory, stating, Just at the start of the game, RCB was 40 for 4, and were thinking, oh my God, whats happening with RCB? But then again, RCB this year, this season, have found a way to win. In the first game they were struggling and found a way; in this game they were struggling and found a way again. First, it was that batting performance from Radha Yadav and Richa Ghosh, and then the bowlers. Because it was never going to be easy defending 182. Gujarat Giants have these big hitters and theyve been scoring freely. Also, this was the first time RCB were bowling in the second half, which is a whole new factor. But a top performance from RCB, and this should give them a lot of confidence, he added. Katey Martin also joined the bandwagon and spoke about Shreyanka Patils inspiring journey, saying, Shes such an intelligent player and an intelligent person as well, and it comes through in the way she speaks and the way she bowls. I think she had six or seven different types of injuries over the last two years, so it wasnt just one thing shed come back and then something else would happen. I love the fact that were seeing traditional off-spinners come back into the T20 game. Theres so much focus on spinners who dont spin it at all, and theres a place for that too, but to be able to sum up the conditions, slow the pace down, bowl off-spin and let the wicket do the work is special. I remember she said that she was in tears standing at the top of her mark because she was just so proud to be back playing cricket. To think that in the space of three or four months to now in the WPL, picking up 5 for 4 against a team she absolutely loves what a special moment, the former New Zealand cricketer added. RCBs new-ball pacer Lauren Bell has put up impressive performances so far and has been a crucial cog in the teams victories this season. Former India wicketkeeper-batter Saba Karim commented on the tall fast-bowlers impact, stating, Shes really enjoying her outings at the D.Y. Patil Stadium. Shes able to generate that kind of pace and, if you recall that delivery to Sophie Devine, extract extra bounce. It was good to see her come back strongly. Theres so much focus on spinners who dont spin it at all, and theres a place for that too, but to be able to sum up the conditions, slow the pace down, bowl off-spin and let the wicket do the work is special. I remember she said that she was in tears standing at the top of her mark because she was just so proud to be back playing cricket. To think that in the space of three or four months to now in the WPL, picking up 5 for 4 against a team she absolutely loves what a special moment, the former New Zealand cricketer added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Lauren Bell has been not only economical but also effective with the new ball, in the middle overs, and at the death. Overall, this was an impressive win for RCB a win built on self-belief and resilience. At one stage, they were tottering at 40 for 4 without Smriti Mandhana, with the top order back in the hut. To recover from there and post 182 shows this team refuses to lie down. They believe they can always come back from a precarious situation, and that belief was on full display, he said. Article Source: IANS

With Jaiswals Coach By His Side, Mokhade Relishes Run-making Spree In Vijay Hazare Trophy

Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: These are good times for Vidarbha's right-handed opener Aman Mokhade, as his run-making spree in the Vijay Hazare Trophy has led the side to the competition's title clash for the second successive time. As Vidarbha prepare to take the field for the final against Saurashtra at the BCCI CoE Ground in Bengaluru on Sunday, Mokhade will be eyeing taking Vidarbha over the line with another blistering knock. In Vidarbhas semi-final win over Karnataka, Mokhade equalled the record for most centuries in a Vijay Hazare Trophy edition by hitting his fifth century of the tournament. Mokhades 781 runs coming at an average of 97.62 make him the competition's leading run-getter. He also equalled South African great Graeme Pollock's world record of completing 1,000 List A runs in just 16 innings, becoming the fastest Indian to reach the mark. The surge in Mokhades fortunes follows after being on the fringes of Vidarbha side. With a solid top-order in Atharva Taide, Dhruv Shorey, Yash Rathod, Karun Nair and Danish Malewar, opportunities were scarce for Mokhade to establish himself. Jwala Singh, the coach of India opener Yashasvi Jaiswal, has been coaching Mokhade since 2023 and feels proud over the youngster having a remarkable time in the ongoing competition. I don't say much when a player performs well. I talk very little and feel that when a player is already doing well, what else can he do better if I say something? I just told him one thing - that you are already in a good zone. You are already doing well. Just keep playing like this. You are in a fine zone - so make it bigger and bigger. When you are already doing well, then try to make it better and he will do it. I really feel the way Vidarbha kept him with the team last year and now have given him chances in the matches (has been wonderful). So in this final match, I am sure he will perform well and win the trophy for Vidarbha, Jwala told IANS in an exclusive conversation from Australia. Mokhade's breakthrough time in this domestic season came when Nair returned to Karnataka and Malewar was injured. He responded with 577 runs in first phase of Ranji Trophy at an average of 96.16, before amassing 206 runs in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy at a strike-rate of 157.25. Jwala recalled how he first connected with Mokhade in 2023 after receiving a message from him. I was in England for my yearly coaching work, and I got a message from this guy that I play for Vidarbha and want to train under you. Someone has given me your number. I said I don't take everyone, but you send me your biodata and I will see what you have. But I had in the back of my mind that this kid has come to me, so I have to give him some good inputs. I used to message him on what to do, and what not to do. My conversations started from there and after that, he has been with me. A good thing about him is whenever he gets time, he always comes to Mumbai. Because he also plays from Vidarbha, there is club cricket and it is important for him to stay there too. So, whenever he gets a chance, he asks me, Sir, you are available? When I am available, he comes. Recently, he came to me in June and he called me in the evening and said, Sir, are you in Mumbai tomorrow morning? I said, Yes, I am. So, he took bus and came in the morning. He is very dedicated towards cricket and talking about dedication and devotion, because I saw in his (semi-final) match, the way he was present there and tried to win the game and won it too; he has a long way to go, he elaborated. The partnership between Jwala and Mokhade took a serious turn after the Irani Cup in 2024, where the coach felt he had the ability to play multi-day cricket, but the stroke-play and capability of shifting gears needed an upgrade. When such players come who are playing Ranji Trophy and Under-23 for the state, then my job is to accelerate them as a coach. Its because your next level will be either the IPL or you will have to be a top performer in domestic cricket or maybe anything ahead. So, he had some strokes that I felt were missing. For example, we worked a lot on the pull and cut shots. Between point and cover, a lot of work was done on perfecting the square drive. The cover drive was already good, so we didn't have to work that much on it. We worked on the flick; as in white-ball cricket, the most important thing is to hit over mid-on and mid-off and hit a new ball downtown. So, most of the work was done on the acceleration of his game, he said. But refining the technique alone wasn't enough, as Jwala took charge of keeping Mokhade motivated during last season's frustrations over lack of game time. After a certain stage, cricket is a mind game. So how do you keep yourself self-motivated and hungry for making runs? In cricket, a lot of times, you do very well but you don't get a chance. A lot of times, a stage comes where you work very hard, but you don't get a chance in the team. So I always told him one thing - we have to win big battles. If you see any war and the big victories, it's not necessary that all the soldiers in front of you will die and only then will you win. You have to fight till the end. As long as you keep fighting, there are chances of winning and no matter how hard you work, it will definitely pay off. Even if you are failing, your mindset should be the same he elaborated. Mokhade's centuries in this tournament have come against Bengal, Jammu & Kashmir, Baroda, Uttar Pradesh and Karnataka. His consistency across formats this season have established him as a potential all-format player. If you see his batting, he changes gears and you can see that in how he plays red-ball cricket and white-ball formats. In this Vijay Hazare Trophy, he has understood how to change gears, adapt to situations, and play the game because the job of an opening batsman is to run the match. You play from the first over, have to keep one end up and try to take the team to victory. So the way he has started, he is an all-format player, as you will see very few players who adapt to every format and dominate like this, said Jwala. Now in his fourth first-class season since debuting in 2022/23, Mokhade has transformed waiting into opportunity. The philosophy Jwala preaches remains unchanged for Mokhade to keep the good times going. You play from the first over, have to keep one end up and try to take the team to victory. So the way he has started, he is an all-format player, as you will see very few players who adapt to every format and dominate like this, said Jwala. Also Read: Live Cricket Score So, this is the outcome of what you did today, and you have to follow the process. You have to be present and try to play (well) for your team and state as much as you can. For now, this is enough for him, he concluded. Article Source: IANS

Australian Open 2026: Novak Djokovic says addiction to tennis keeps him going at 38

The 38-year-old is about to embark on his 21st Australian Open and remains among the top contenders, behind defending champion Jannik Sinner and top-ranked Carlos Alcaraz

Rahane Pulls Out Of Remaining Ranji Trophy Matches: Reports

Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: Veteran batter Ajinkya Rahane will not take part in Mumbai's remaining two Ranji Trophy matches. Mumbai will play against Hyderabad from January 22 to 25, before their final league-phase match against Delhi at the MCA-BKC ground from January 29 to February 1. Rahane reportedly informed the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) that he wont be taking part in the remainder of the red-ball season due to personal reasons. We will be picking the Mumbai team for their second stage of league game, Rahane wont be taking part as he has informed MCA that he wont be available for the remaining two red ball games, a source was quoted in an Indian Express report. Ahead of the 2025-26 domestic season, Rahane relinquished the Mumbai captaincy, saying, I believe its the right time to groom a new leader. MCA then appointed India all-rounder Shardul Thakur as the new captain of the 42-time Ranji champions. Under Rahanes captaincy, Mumbai won the Ranji Trophy in the 2023-24 season, ending a seven-year drought for the championship. They also reached the Ranji Trophy semifinals last season, where they lost to Vidharbha by 90 runs. Under his leadership, Mumbai also won the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy last season, with Rahane as the tournament's highest run-scorer, and clinched the Irani Trophy in 2024-25. Ahead of the 2025-26 domestic season, Rahane relinquished the Mumbai captaincy, saying, I believe its the right time to groom a new leader. MCA then appointed India all-rounder Shardul Thakur as the new captain of the 42-time Ranji champions. Also Read: Live Cricket Score In his domestic career, Rahane has played 205 first-class matches, 192 List A matches, and 284 T20 matches. During this time, he has scored 14,209 runs in 346 first-class innings at an average of 44.96, 6,853 runs in 187 List A innings at an average of 39.84, and 7,242 runs in 267 T20 innings at an average of 29.92. Article Source: IANS

WPL: UP Warriorz Dedicate Special Match To Champion Girls Education

The UP Warriorz: The UP Warriorz are dedicating a special match in the ongoing Womens Premier League(WPL) 2026 to promote free, flexible, and lifelong education for girls, continuing their dedication to creating purpose-driven impact through sport. Saturdays match against the Mumbai Indians is rooted in the belief that every girl deserves her moment, both on the field and in life. This initiative is centred on the Warriorz continuous collaboration with Educate Girls, a grassroots organisation dedicated to enhancing educational access for girls in underserved communities. The partnership emphasises open schooling as a vital route for girls who have left formal education because of social, economic, or personal reasons. Open schooling allows learners to complete their 10th and 12th grades without attending traditional daily school, providing flexibility, credibility, and affordable access. For many adolescent girls, young women, including athletes, caregivers, and first-generation learners, this model offers a second opportunity to pursue education in a way that aligns with their lives. Educate Girls operates in 12 states to enhance the open schooling system and aims to achieve its ambitious 10x10 goal of reaching 10 million learners within 10 years, emphasising education as a lifelong opportunity instead of a one-time pathway. By utilising the reach and scale of the WPL, the UP Warriorz use broadcast channels, in-stadium experiences, and fan engagement now to elevate this vital conversation into the mainstream, advancing from merely raising awareness to promoting advocacy. Before the match, the team steps onto the field wearing a limited-edition jersey made exclusively for this event. Created in partnership with well-known artist Harun Robert, also called Rob, the jersey displays sections of handwritten letters from girls linked to Educate Girls. These letters, addressed to their future selves, are filled with dreams, hopes, and ambitions. The jersey acts as a symbol of aspiration, bringing the voices of girls to the centre of crickets grand stage. By utilising the reach and scale of the WPL, the UP Warriorz use broadcast channels, in-stadium experiences, and fan engagement now to elevate this vital conversation into the mainstream, advancing from merely raising awareness to promoting advocacy. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Through this special match on Saturday, the UP Warriorz reaffirm their commitment to leveraging sport as a means for meaningful change, ensuring that as womens cricket expands, its influence extends beyond the boundary. Article Source: IANS

Andreeva mows down Mboko in battle of teenagers to win Adelaide title

In the second set, Andreeva broke early to take the opening three games and sealed the match on serve

Kohli, Kuldeep Visit Shree Mahakaleshwar Temple, Attend Bhasma Aarti

Shree Mahakaleshwar Temple: Former India captain and batting stalwart Virat Kohli, along with spinner Kuldeep Yadav and fielding coach T Dilip, visited the Shree Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain on Saturday to seek blessings of Lord Shiva and also attended the Bhasma Aarti on Saturday. The two cricketers also attended Bhasma Aarti. Kohli was also felicitated by the Mahakaleshwar Temple management committee. It was a very good experience, and the entire team came here. It always feels good to have darshan of Lord Mahakaal. By His grace, everything is going well, and I hope that God continues to shower his blessings on everyone and that everyones life goes well. It was a very good experience today, Kuldeep told IANS. On Friday, head coach Gautam Gambhir and wicketkeeper batter KL Rahul also offered prayers at one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. Gambhir, Rahul and batting coach Sitanshu Kotak also attended the 4:00 AM Bhasma Aarti. Team India is set to play in the third and deciding ODI against New Zealand at the Holkar Cricket Stadium on Sunday, after the visitors levelled the three-match series by preventing India from taking an unassailable lead in the second ODI at Rajkot. After clinching a thrilling four-wicket win in the series opener at Vadodara, India entered the second ODI with momentum but suffered a comprehensive seven-wicket defeat against Michael Bracewells New Zealand. Team India is set to play in the third and deciding ODI against New Zealand at the Holkar Cricket Stadium on Sunday, after the visitors levelled the three-match series by preventing India from taking an unassailable lead in the second ODI at Rajkot. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Across 35 ODIs against the Kiwis, Kohli has amassed 1,773 runs at an impressive average of 55.4, including six centuries and 10 half-centuries, with a highest score of 154. He surpassed Sachin Tendulkar, who scored 1,750 runs in 42 matches at an average of 46.05, with five hundreds and eight fifties. Article Source: IANS

I Still Can't Figure Out How Selectors Went With Inglis Ahead Of Webster In Ashes: Ponting

New Delhi: Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has questioned the Ashes selection calls, saying he is still unable to understand why Josh Inglis was preferred over Beau Webster during the series. Despite making an impressive start to his Test career, including a match-winning performance on debut during last years Border-Gavaskar Trophy finale, Webster was left out of Australias starting XI for Novembers Ashes opener in Perth, with fellow all-rounder Cameron Green taking his spot at No. 6. The 32-year-old was also sidelined for the following two Tests in Brisbane and Adelaide, with national selectors instead calling up reserve wicketkeeper Inglis, who posted scores of 23, 32 and 10 batting at No. 7. Webster finally got a chance during the New Years Ashes Test at the SCG, where he scored an unbeaten 71 and took three wickets with his part-time off spin. At the start I was surprised they went with Inglis ahead of Beau. With the selectors, I know they look very deeply into data with these things. There must have been something there; a metric and Inglis must have better numbers. But I cant figure out how they did that, to be honest, Ponting told SEN Tassie. Ponting suggested the decision was puzzling, especially given Websters form and ability to offer greater balance to the side, and felt the selectors missed an opportunity by overlooking him throughout the Ashes. I was surprised, but every time I see Beau play, he just continues to put forward a case as to why he should be in the side. Now we know an opportunity has come up at No. 5 with Usman Khawaja not there. I cant see any world in which Travis Head doesnt continue as opener, so maybe its Beaus chance to grab that No. 5 spot. Ponting suggested the decision was puzzling, especially given Websters form and ability to offer greater balance to the side, and felt the selectors missed an opportunity by overlooking him throughout the Ashes. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Last week, Webster had confessed he was disappointed to miss selection for the first four Tests of the Ashes campaign. Article Source: IANS

Shreyanka Patil, Sophie Devine level with Nandani Sharma at the top of WPL Purple Cap table

All three of Nandani Sharma, Shreyanka Patil and Sophie Devine now have eight wickets to their names in WPL 2026

Australian Open 2026: Hungry Alcaraz, focused Sabalenka target glory

The first major of the year gets under way as a 15-day event for the third time running, aimed at cutting down on late-night finishes

Delhi Capitals vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Match 11, WPL 2026, Who will win today DC-W vs RCB-W match?

DC-W vs RCB-W, Match 11, Cricket Tips :The two teams that faced off in the final of the second edition of the Women's Premier League will be up against each other in the next game of the WPL 2026. It will be a contest between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Delhi Capitals on Saturday. This contest will begin at 7:30 PM IST at Dr. DY Patil Sports Academy. RCB-W are riding on their undefeated streak, as they have managed three consecutive wins. Another win will help them inch closer to a place in the next round. Meanwhile, Delhi Capitals recorded their first win in the previous game. But for them, the big challenge will be maintaining the form and trying to earn two more points here. DC-W vs RCB-W: Match Details Date : January 17, 2026 (Saturday) Time : 7:30 PM IST Venue : Dr DY Patil Sports Academy, Navi Mumbai DC-W vs RCB-W Live Streaming Details To watch the DCW vs RCBW game on Saturday, fans can tune into the Star Sports Networks on cable TVs. Fans can also catch the live stream on the Jio Hotstar streaming platform. DC-W vs RCB-W: Head-to-Head in WPL Total Matches : 7 Delhi Capitals Women : 5 Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women : 2 No-Result : 0 DC-W vs RCB-W: Ground Pitch Report This is the last game at this venue, which has proved to be a great batting track. The batters have liked the bounce here, which has helped them hit big shots. The shorter boundaries have challenged the bowlers, and bowlers with good slower ones can do well. But overall, it is a great batting deck. DC-W vs RCB-W: Possible XIs Delhi Capitals Women : Lizelle Lee (wk), Shafali Verma, Laura Wolvaardt, Marizanne Kapp, Jemimah Rodrigues (c), Chinelle Henry, Sneh Rana, Minnu Mani, Niki Prasad, Nandani Sharma, Shree Charani Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women : Grace Harris, D. Hemalatha, Smriti Mandhana (c), Radha Yadav, Gautami Naik, Richa Ghosh (wk), Arundhati Reddy, Nadine de Klerk, Shreyanka Patil, Linsey Smith, Lauren Bell DC-W vs RCB-W: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Lizelle Lee has looked a class apart from other DC batters and has given explosive starts to the team. For RCB-W, Grace Harris is someone who can single-handedly take the game away in the powerplay. Probable Best Bowler Nadani Sharma is the highest wicket-taker of this season and has been the find for DC-W. For RCB-W, Shreyanka Patil has been the key bowler, who took a fifer in the previous game. Today Match Prediction : With the form and momentum on their side, we predict RCB-W to beat DC-W in this game on Saturday. DC-W vs RCB-W Match 11, WPL 2026, Today Match DC-W vs RCB-W, DC-W vs RCB-W Prediction, DC-W vs RCB-W Predicted XIs, Injury Update for DC-W vs RCB-W 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.

UP Warriorz vs Mumbai Indians, Match 10, WPL 2026, Who will win today UPW-W vs MI-W match?

UPW-W vs MI-W, Match 10, Cricket Tips :UP Warriorz Women managed to beat the strong Mumbai Indians Women in the previous game. Harleen Deol played a crucial role in that win, which helped UPW-W open their account in the WPL 2026. MI-W would be disappointed with the performance. But they will have a chance to address the issue they faced. Mumbai Indians and UP Warriorz will be up against each other for the second time this week. This contest will kick off at 3 PM IST on January 17 at Dr. DY Patil Sports Academy. UPW-W had a good bowling performance, but the challenge will be to repeat it. MI-W will look to work on their batting plans in the powerplay and come out with something better. UPW-W vs MI-W: Match Details Date : January 17, 2026 (Saturday) Time : 3:00 PM IST Venue : Dr DY Patil Sports Academy, Navi Mumbai UPW-W vs MI-W Live Streaming Details Fans can tune into the Star Sports Networks to watch the live action of this game. Fans can watch this game through live stream on the Jio Hotstar app or website. UPW-W vs MI-W: Head-to-Head in WPL Total Matches : 8 UP Warriorz Women : 3 Mumbai Indians Women : 5 No-Result : 0 UPW-W vs MI-W: Ground Pitch Report Dr. DY Patil Sports Academy has offered a flat deck for the batters. Fans have already enjoyed watching teams score high totals. For fast bowlers, the new ball will do a little for the first few overs, but as the ball gets old, the pitch will flatten out. The toss will be crucial here, and chasing is an advantage because of the dew. UPW-W vs MI-W: Possible XIs UP Warriorz Women : Meg Lanning (c), Kiran Navgire, Harleen Deol, Phoebe Litchfield, Shweta Sehrawat (wk), Deepti Sharma, Deandra Dottin, Sophie Ecclestone, Asha Sobhana, Shikha Pandey, Kranti Gaud Mumbai Indians Women : Hayley Matthews, G. Kamalini (wk), Amelia Kerr, Nat Sciver-Brunt, Amanjot Kaur, Harmanpreet Kaur (c), Nicola Carey, Sajeevan Sajana, Poonam Khemnar, Sanskriti Gupta, Triveni Vasistha UPW-W vs MI-W: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Harleen Deol has played two good knocks and is looking good in the middle overs. She will be key for UPW-W. For MI-W, Nat Sciver Brunt has scored two consecutive fifties and is showing good form here. Probable Best Bowler Sophie Ecclestone is among the top-ranked T20I bowlers in the world. She has bowled good spells in the WPL 2026 as well. For MI-W, Amelia Kerr is bowling well and is the top wicket-taker for MI-W. Today Match Prediction : UPW-W won the previous game, but MI-W are better placed to win this game. They have a good combination, and we can expect a good comeback after a defeat. UPW-W vs MI-W Match 10, WPL 2026, Today Match UPW-W vs MI-W, UPW-W vs MI-W Prediction, UPW-W vs MI-W Predicted XIs, Injury Update for UP Warriorz vs MI Women 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.

DC look to test unbeaten RCB in Navi Mumbai's final game of the season

It will be RCB's second game within 24 hours after they beat Gujarat Giants on Friday night

PSL mulling a 'drauction' (draft + auction) for 2026 season

The addition of the two new franchises has also complicated the matter of player retentions

WPL 2026: Very Happy That I Got My First Five-wicket Haul In T20s, Says Shreyanka Patil

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) off-spin bowling all-rounder Shreyanka Patil said she was very happy to claim her maiden five-wicket haul in T20s as her side defeated Gujarat Giants by 32 runs to extend their unbeaten run in the 2026 Womens Premier League (WPL). At the DY Patil Stadium, Shreyanka took 5-23 and is now the youngest bowler to get a five-wicket haul in WPL, as RCB got on top of the points table. Firstly, I would love to give the credit to Radha because if not for her innings, I don't think we would have put that total up on the board. I'm really happy the way Richa and Radha contributed in the first innings, knowing there were four down, we were 44/4, and then to just play those innings, I think it's a massive impact, and it gave us a lot of confidence seeing that 170-180 on the board. It gave us a lot of confidence knowing that Dew is gonna play a major role. We knew the last couple of games, we saw huge and heavy dew coming into the picture because the last two games we've played on this wicket, we didn't face that much of dew. So we were ready for dew today, and I think the bowlers did tremendously well, and I'm very, very happy that I got my first five-wicket haul in T20s, said Shreyanka at the conclusion of the game. Reflecting on her comeback after more than a year out of the game, which also led her to miss the 2025 WPL, Shreyanka said she had leaned on her support system and worked hard to return stronger. I've gone through a rollercoaster of a ride personally for me. I think I have dealt with it. I came out of it in a very strong way, thanks to my support system. My coaches, my grandparents, are here, and my uncle and aunt are also here supporting. My sister also left her job, and she came all the way from Bangalore to watch me. So I'm very happy, and just that the fact that I was out of cricket for 14 months was a big blow for me because I am someone who can't sit quietly. I want to be on the field. I want to be on the cricket field. I want to do what I love doing. So, I'm very happy with the preparation I got last month, as well as with Arjun sir back in Bangalore. I think I've put in a lot of hard work over the last couple of months, and I'm very happy that my execution is falling in place right now. Shreyanka said she described herself as an attacking bowler who thrives on taking wickets rather than containing runs. I am a wicket-taking bowler, and I've always said that because the drift I get, the turn I get on the bounce I get is something I'm not seeing much. I'm getting a lot of credit for myself. I don't know why. But I think I've worked towards it. I just didn't want to be a containing bowler. I wanted to be a wicket-taking bowler and be that impactful bowler for the team in any given situation, be it the powerplay, be it the middle overs, or the death, because I've prepared so well in any given phase of the game. I know that I'm looking to get wickets. So, again, going back to practice, the scenarios that play, the match-based scenarios, bowling against boys, getting hit, learning from them. I mean, it's just a whole lot of hard work. She added that keeping her plans simple was key to picking a five-wicket haul. I kept it very simple - even Anya (Shrubsole, bowling coach) and Malolan (Rangarajan, head coach) kept saying that just keep things simple because your stock ball is the best ball on this wicket. I know that I'm looking to get wickets. So, again, going back to practice, the scenarios that play, the match-based scenarios, bowling against boys, getting hit, learning from them. I mean, it's just a whole lot of hard work. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Obviously, bowling against left-handers is a big advantage, advantage being an off-spinner, and Smriti kept saying that you have to get all the lefties out in the tournament. That's the hard work. No pressure at all. So, that's what we keep talking about, and I've got a lovely support system here as well, she concluded. Article Source: IANS

Radha, Ghosh rescue RCB before Patil five-for consigns GG to defeat

The two batters added 105 after RCB were 43 for 4, after which Nadine de Klerk's cameo followed

What the Alcaraz-Ferrero split reveals about tennis player-coach dynamic

The mania around the high-profile breakup shows the evolving nature of the athlete-confidant alliance in an individualistic sport. Coaches used to be support acts to the star. But with on-court coaching now fully legal at all levels, they have moved from backstage to front and centre

WPL 2026: Radhas 66, Shreyankas Five-for Helps RCB Beat GG, Become Table Toppers (ld)

Dr DY Patil Stadium: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) maintained their perfect start to 2026 Women's Premier League (WPL) 2026 with a 32-run victory over Gujarat Giants and moved to the top of the points table after a standout maiden five-wicket haul from off-spin bowling all-rounder Shreyanka Patil. Royal Challengers Bengaluru had recovered from a shaky start after losing four wickets in the Power-play, with Radha Yadav emerging as the unlikely saviour by hitting 66 off 42 balls -- her maiden WPL fifty and adding 105 runs for the fifth wicket with Richa Ghosh, who hit 44 off 28 deliveries, while Nadine de Klerks late cameo of 26 lifted the total to 182/7. In reply, Gujarat Giants raced to 32 in three overs, but lost five wickets in the next eight overs. Despite Bharti Fulmali and Kashvee Gautam threatening to complete the chase with big hits, RCB closed out a comfortable win as GG were bowled out for 150 in 18.5 overs, with Shreyanka taking 5-23 and Lauren Bell picking 3-29. Beth Mooney gave Gujarat Giants a brisk start by flicking Lauren for four, and was followed by a slash off Linsey Smith through square leg while Sophie Devine heaved her over mid-wicket. Beth cut loose against Lauren in the third over - lofting and pulling for two fours, while lofting over mid-off for six. RCB struck back in the fourth over when Arundhati Reddy removed Sophie for eight by holding a sharp return catch off her own bowling. In the next over, Shreyanka delivered a key breakthrough by trapping Beth lbw for 27 after a successful review. GGs slide continued when Ashleigh Gardner edged a cut behind to Richa Ghosh off Lauren, while Kanika Ahuja was trapped lbw by Shreyanka for 16 on review, and Georgia Wareham attempted to heave a short delivery off Nadine de Klerk, but miscued it and Radha Yadav sprinted across from deep mid-wicket to complete a sharp catch. Bharti offered some resistance by cutting Nadine through backward point for four, before edging a low full toss past Richa for another boundary, and then launched a towering six over long-off. She was reprieved on 12 when Smriti Mandhana dropped her catch at mid-off. Bharti punished RCB for that dropped chance by walloping Linsey for two monstrous sixes and keeping GGs hopes alive by cutting Nadine past point for four and lofting a slower ball over cover for six. But RCB continued to chip away as Kashvee, after surviving a dropped chance at long-off, holed out to long-on off a slower ball from Shreyanka. Though Tanuja Kanwer hit a four and six off Shreyanka and Lauren, Bharti mistimed a pull off the latter, and long-on ran in to take a diving catch. A ball later, Lauren had her third wicket when debutante Shivani Singh holed out to long-on. Tanuja hit two boundaries off Arundhati, but holed out to cover off Shreyanka, who completed her five-for with Renuka Singh Thakur holing out to mid-off, and completed a phenomenal win for RCB. Previously, after being four down in power-play, Radha produced her finest knock in the competition, while combining with Richa and Nadine to lift the total beyond 180. For GG, Sophie Devine was the standout by claiming three wickets, while dropped chances again hurt GG. RCB made a flying start after being put in to bat, with Grace Harris taking Renuka apart in the opening over, striking four boundaries as 23 runs came off it. But GG bounced back when Kashvees big inswinger trapped Grace lbw for 17, while Dayalan Hemalatha miscued a hook off the all-rounder and Shivani pulled off a sharp one-handed catch at short fine leg. Smritis struggle continued as she fell cheaply to Renuka after edging to Rajeshwari Gayakwad at short third. Sophie added to the pressure by trapping Gautami Naik lbw to leave the visitors reeling at 45/4. But Radha and Richa steadied the innings, counter-attacking with boundaries against Georgia and Ashleigh. Radha cleared long-on for six and carved fours through point, while Richa found the fence with a late cut and a slap through cover. After Radha survived an lbw review, she leaned into a pitched-up delivery from Renuka to pierce backward point for four, while Richa carved another boundary to raise the fifty of the partnership. Richa left the crowd thrilled by lofting a loopy delivery from Georgia over deep mid-wicket for six and was dropped by deep mid-off. Kashvees reintroduction saw Radha pull confidently over long-on for six, before Richa showcased her power by driving Sophie straight into the sight screen for a towering six. Radha reached her maiden fifty emphatically, pulling Sophie over deep square leg for six, before carving Ashleigh through cover for a crisp boundary, and was then reprieved when a chance was put down by Bharti on the final ball of the over. Richa, meanwhile, showcased her touch with a deft late cut past third man for four, before holing out to long-on off Georgia. Nadine brought out a blistering assault by smashing Kashvee for two sixes and two fours in the 19th over, worth 22 runs. Though she and Radha fell in the final over, RCB managed to cross the 180-run mark, which was enough to get a win. Kashvees reintroduction saw Radha pull confidently over long-on for six, before Richa showcased her power by driving Sophie straight into the sight screen for a towering six. Radha reached her maiden fifty emphatically, pulling Sophie over deep square leg for six, before carving Ashleigh through cover for a crisp boundary, and was then reprieved when a chance was put down by Bharti on the final ball of the over. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Royal Challengers Bengaluru 182/7 in 20 overs (Radha Yadav 66, Richa Ghosh 44; Sophie Devine 3-31, Kashvee Gautam 2-42) beat Gujarat Giants (Bharti Fulmali 39, Beth Mooney 27; Lauren Bell 3-29, Shreyanka Patil 3-21) by 32 runs Article Source: IANS

Walsh named Zimbabwe's bowling consultant for T20 World Cup

The combination of the attack has impressed me from watching and the potential that's within the team, Walsh said

Zimbabwe Appoint Courtney Walsh As Bowling Consultant Ahead Of Mens T20 World Cup

Sinhalese Sports Club Ground: Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) has appointed legendary West Indies fast bowler Courtney Walsh as a bowling consultant for the national team ahead of the 2026 ICC Mens T20 World Cup, to be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8. Zimbabwe Cricket said Walsh has already begun working with the squad as Zimbabwe intensify their preparations for the tournament, where they are in Group B alongside 2021 champions Australia, 2014 winners Sri Lanka, Ireland, and Oman. I am very excited about the opportunity to work with Zimbabwe and am really looking forward to the challenges ahead. I think we have a very good chance once we execute well and work together as a team and adapt to the conditions. The combination of the attack has impressed me from watching and the potential thats within the team, said Walsh. Walsh represented the West Indies from 1984 to 2001, claiming 519 wickets in 132 Tests and becoming the first bowler to reach 500 Test wickets. Since retiring, he has taken up coaching roles, like being the head coach of the West Indies womens team and serving as bowling coach for Bangladeshs mens side. In April 2024, he also worked as a technical consultant to the Zimbabwe womens national team. Courtney Walsh brings unparalleled experience and insight at the highest level of international cricket, particularly in fast bowling. As we prepare for the ICC Mens T20 World Cup, it was important for us to bring in someone who understands what it takes to succeed on the global stage. Courtneys knowledge, professionalism, and ability to mentor players will be invaluable as we sharpen our bowling resources for the challenges ahead. He has previously worked with our womens national team and understands our cricketing environment. That continuity, combined with his global coaching experience, gives us confidence that he will have a meaningful impact on the squad, said Givemore Makoni, ZC Managing Director. In April 2024, he also worked as a technical consultant to the Zimbabwe womens national team. Courtney Walsh brings unparalleled experience and insight at the highest level of international cricket, particularly in fast bowling. As we prepare for the ICC Mens T20 World Cup, it was important for us to bring in someone who understands what it takes to succeed on the global stage. Also Read: Live Cricket Score They will then travel to Kandy to face Ireland at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium on February 17, before returning to Colombo to conclude their group fixtures against Sri Lanka at the R. Premadasa Stadium on February 19. The top two teams from Group B will advance to the Super Eight stage of the tournament. Article Source: IANS

Vishvaraj Jadeja's 165* sends Saurashtra into Vijay Hazare Trophy final

Saurashtra chase down 292 with nine wickets in hand and 63 balls to spare; they meet Vidarbha in Sunday's final

WPL 2026: Radha, Richa Pull RCB Out Of Trouble, Post 182/7 Against GG

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) staged a remarkable recovery after being in tatters in the Power-play to post 182/7 in 20 overs against Gujarat Giants in Match 9 of the Womens Premier League (WPL) 2026 clash at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai on Friday. Radha Yadav produced her finest knock in the competition, hitting a remarkable Gujarat Giants off 47 balls -- her maiden WPL fifty. She also shared a 105-run stand for the fifth wicket with Richa Ghosh, who made 44 off 28 balls. Nadine de Klerk added a late flourish by making 26 off 12 balls and lifted the total beyond 180. For Gujarat Giants, Sophie Devine was the standout by claiming three wickets, while dropped chances again hurt GG. With an in-form batting unit, GGs chase promises to be a compelling contest. RCB made a flying start after being put in to bat, with Grace Harris taking Renuka Singh Thakur apart in the opening over, striking four boundaries as 23 runs came off it. But GG bounced back when Kashvee Gautams big inswinger trapped Grace lbw for 17, while Dayalan Hemalatha miscued a hook off the all-rounder and debutante Shivani Singh pulled off a sharp one-handed catch at short fine leg. Smriti Mandhanas struggle continued as she fell cheaply to Renuka after edging to Rajeshwari Gayakwad at short third. Sophie added to the pressure by trapping Gautami Naik lbw to leave the visitors reeling at 45/4. But Radha and Richa steadied the innings, counter-attacking with boundaries against Georgia Wareham and Gardner. Radha cleared long-on for six and carved fours through point, while Ghosh found the fence with a late-cut and a slap through cover. After Radha survived an lbw review, she leaned into a pitched-up delivery from Renuka to pierce backward point for four, while Richa carved another boundary to raise the fifty of the partnership. Richa left the crowd thrilled by lofting a loopy delivery from Georgia Wareham over deep mid-wicket for six and was dropped by deep mid-off. Kashvees reintroduction saw Radha pull confidently over long-on for six, before Richa showcased her power by driving Devine straight into the sight screen for a towering six. Radha reached her maiden fifty emphatically, pulling Sophie over deep square leg for six, before carving Ashleigh Gardner through the covers for a crisp boundary, and was then reprieved when a chance was put down by Bharti Fulmali on the final ball of the over. Richa, meanwhile, showcased her touch with a deft late-cut past third man for four, before holing out to long-on off Georgia. Nadine brought out a blistering assault by smashing Kashvee for two sixes and two fours in the 19th over, worth 22 runs. Though she and Radha fell in the final over, RCB managed to cross the 180-mark. Kashvees reintroduction saw Radha pull confidently over long-on for six, before Richa showcased her power by driving Devine straight into the sight screen for a towering six. Radha reached her maiden fifty emphatically, pulling Sophie over deep square leg for six, before carving Ashleigh Gardner through the covers for a crisp boundary, and was then reprieved when a chance was put down by Bharti Fulmali on the final ball of the over. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Royal Challengers Bengaluru 182/7 in 20 overs (Radha Yadav 66, Richa Ghosh 44; Sophie Devine 3-31, Kashvee Gautam 2-42) against Gujarat Giants Article Source: IANS

Shreyas and Bishnoi added to India's squad for NZ T20I series

They have replaced the injured Tilak Varma and Washington Sundar

U-19 World Cup: Steven Hogan's 115 seals big win for Australia

Hogan and Samuel (77*) add 186 as Australia brush aside Ireland for an eight-wicket win

Iyer, Bishnoi Drafted Into India Squad For T20Is Against NZ; Sundar Ruled Out With Side Strain

BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia: India have added right-handed batter Shreyas Iyer and leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi to their T20I squad for the upcoming five-game series against New Zealand, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) informed on Friday. The five-game series against New Zealand, starting in Nagpur on January 21, is Indias last international assignment before their Mens T20 World Cup title defence starts on February 7. While Bishnoi comes as a replacement for the injured off-spin bowling all-rounder Washington Sundar, Iyer will be there for the first three games due to left-handed batter Tilak Varma, who is recovering from a lower abdomen surgery. Washington Sundar underwent scans after reporting an acute onset of discomfort in his lower rib area while bowling during the first ODI against New Zealand at the BCA Stadium, Vadodara, on 11 January. This was followed by an in-person consultation with an expert. He has been diagnosed with a side strain and has been advised rest for a few days, following which he will report to the BCCI Centre of Excellence (COE) for further management of his injury, said BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia. Bishnoi last played for India in a T20I match against England in Mumbai in February 2025. In 42 T20Is, Bishnoi has picked 61 wickets at an economy rate of 7.35. Iyer, meanwhile, last played a T20I for India against Australia at Bengaluru in December 2023. This was followed by an in-person consultation with an expert. He has been diagnosed with a side strain and has been advised rest for a few days, following which he will report to the BCCI Centre of Excellence (COE) for further management of his injury, said BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Indias updated T20I squad: Suryakumar Yadav (C), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (WK), Shreyas Iyer (first three T20Is), Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel (VC), Rinku Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakaravarthy, Ishan Kishan (WK), Ravi Bishnoi Article Source: IANS

Pollard, Keightley appointed as head coaches at MI London

New names in charge at The Oval ahead of rebooted season of the Hundred

'Not sure he was too happy' - Smith on denying Babar a single in BBL

After that move, Smith took 32 runs against Ryan Hadley - the most expensive over in BBL history

WPL 2026: Different People Keep Standing Up, Which Is A Huge Positive, Says Devine On Gujarat Giants' Performance

The Ashleigh Gardner: Gujarat Giants' all-rounder Sophie Devine admitted her side had fallen short in the field in their narrow loss to defending champions Mumbai Indians, but has drawn encouragement from the fact that different people are standing up to perform for the side, which she thinks is a huge positive. The Ashleigh Gardner-led Gujarat Giants, who have four points currently, are seeking a win after suffering their first defeat of the season to MI. It was probably one of those games where we certainly werent at our best, particularly in the field. But to think that we pushed the Mumbai Indians so closely and nearly snuck across the line again in that final over, there are still plenty of positives, said Sophie in a chat with the broadcasters, ahead of the clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the DY Patil Stadium here on Friday. I think the batting has been outstanding. We actually spoke about it post-game - weve been able to score big totals, but theyve all come in slightly different ways. Weve had real strengths in different phases, and different people keep standing up, which is a huge positive, she added. She also said the challenge of containing opposition line-ups on high-scoring surfaces is huge, but added that GG were building confidence within the group. With the ball, we know its always going to be tough on these kinds of wickets, quick outfield and short boundaries. So weve got to keep finding ways to restrict teams. It would be nice to have an easier game, but we know thats not going to be the case against RCB tonight. It really grows confidence within the group, she added. Devine singled out Anushka Sharmas composure at number three in the opening match as a boost to the squad and spoke of the enjoyment of opening the batting alongside Australia batter Beth Mooney. Even in the first game, the way Anushka went out there at No.3, it gives other players confidence that theyre good enough to be here and can perform at this level by backing their strengths. Im really enjoying batting with Moons (Mooney) again. Ive played a lot of cricket with her at the Perth Scorchers, and having someone at the other end youre really familiar with brings a lot of confidence and calmness to my game, she said. Devine singled out Anushka Sharmas composure at number three in the opening match as a boost to the squad and spoke of the enjoyment of opening the batting alongside Australia batter Beth Mooney. Even in the first game, the way Anushka went out there at No.3, it gives other players confidence that theyre good enough to be here and can perform at this level by backing their strengths. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Were very fortunate to have great analysts on board, but at the end of the day, you can have all the plans in the world, if you dont execute them on the field, they dont mean much, she said. Article Source: IANS

WPL 2026: Shivani Handed Debut As GG Elect To Bowl First Against Unbeaten RCB

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Uncapped wicketkeeper-batter Shivani Singh has been handed her debut in the Womens Premier League (WPL) 2026 as Gujarat Giants (GG) won the toss and elected to bowl first against the unbeaten Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in a clash at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai on Friday. RCB have won their first two games, while GG are seeking a win after suffering their first defeat of the season. Both sides are level on four points, and a win for either of them will get them the top spot in the points table. After winning the toss, Gujarat Giants skipper Ashleigh Gardner said Shivani comes in the playing eleven in place of Ayushi Soni. I think nothing really changes for us in terms of process. Over the last couple of games, its shown that its a used wicket. With a harder ball, the spinners do get a little bit out of it as well. For our bowling group, its about taking early wickets and then trying to restrict them to a chaseable total. Its quite hard to defend on this ground, so ultimately we want to keep them to as little as possible and then let our batting do the talking at the end. Our batting has been great, no doubt, but there are definitely areas with the ball where we can improve. Thats always the case, said Gardner. It might sound clich, but its about sticking to what we do really well. Of course, you consider the opposition, but its more about keeping things simple. At this ground, you need two or three options with the ball because its really nice to bat on. So we just need to be very clear at the top of our mark, whether were trying to restrict or take wickets, she added. RCB captain Smriti Mandhana said her side is unchanged. Toss is never in your control. I think its good to experience different situations early in the tournament. If you keep bowling first initially and then later have to bat first, it helps. Im happy with it. The wicket has been pretty even in terms of batting first or fielding. If we play good cricket, the toss wont matter as much. She also spoke about the good work ethic, keeping the team in good standing. Its more about continuing the same things. Doing the basics right. The work ethic in this team has been really good. Everyone is working extremely hard. I see a lot of girls hitting the gym, and its been hard for our coach to get everyone out of the nets, even after practice, which is always a good sign. So its about keeping all of that intact till the end of the season. It really depends on the situation. We dont want to label it as one particular way of playing. It depends on how the situation is and how well were timing the ball, she added. Asked about her opening partner, Grace Harris, Smriti said, With Grace (Harris), you dont really need to tell her how to bat; she bats the way she bats. For all of us, its about executing what we plan. If we need to play the anchor role, we should be able to do that too. We want to play positive and aggressive cricket, but I wouldnt say thats the only way were going to go forward. Playing XIs: Asked about her opening partner, Grace Harris, Smriti said, With Grace (Harris), you dont really need to tell her how to bat; she bats the way she bats. For all of us, its about executing what we plan. If we need to play the anchor role, we should be able to do that too. We want to play positive and aggressive cricket, but I wouldnt say thats the only way were going to go forward. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Grace Harris, Smriti Mandhana (captain), Dayalan Hemalatha, Gautami Naik, Richa Ghosh (wk), Radha Yadav, Nadine de Klerk, Arundhati Reddy, Shreyanka Patil, Linsey Smith, and Lauren Bell Article Source: IANS

BCB promises to investigate claims of threats against protesting players

CWAB president Mohammad Mithun, who has been at the forefront of the protests, has said he has received threatening calls and messages

Devine: Retired-outs a 'great option to be able to use'

Some people will love it, some people will hate it, Gujarat Giants allrounder said

Smith 100 trumps Warner 110* as Sixers clinch Sydney derby

Sydney Thunder end season with eighth defeat while Sixers keep hopes of second spot alive

Sunrisers Eastern Cape's Culture Key To Their Success In SA20: Boucher

Sunrisers Eastern Cape: The remarkable team culture, instilled by coach Adrian Birrell, has been instrumental in Sunrisers Eastern Cape (SEC) becoming the first team to reach the playoffs of the ongoing SA20, said former South Africa captain and coach Mark Boucher. The two-time champions, led by Tristan Stubbs, have already secured a playoff berth following their bonus-point victory over the Joburg Super Kings at St George's Park this week and are now targeting a top-two finish to advance directly to Qualifier 1 at Kingsmead next week. I think the team culture is fantastic, and it's led very well by coach Adrian Birrell. He's an Eastern Cape boy, and the Eastern Cape people are very homely. They love their home ground and are very humble as well. I know for a fact that Adrian Birrell has tried to drive that into his players. We've seen video clips of him walking into a changing room and saying to all the players, 'You must get to learn every person's name around the ground who looks after you, right from your backroom staff to the people who come in and collect the plates.' There's a lot of respect for the people around the ground, and that's shown in their culture as well, Boucher told IANS in a virtual session facilitated by SA20. I think the team culture is fantastic, and it's led very well by coach Adrian Birrell. He's an Eastern Cape boy, and the Eastern Cape people are very homely. They love their home ground and are very humble as well. I know for a fact that Adrian Birrell has tried to drive that into his players. Also Read: Live Cricket Score They understand what their roles are, and they go out there and just want to win and in a gracious way as well. They keep their feet on the ground, and I think that's largely driven by Adrian Birrell. So hats off to him; he's fast becoming one of the best coaches in the world, added Boucher. Article Source: IANS

KL Rahul Visits Mahakaleshwar Temple In Ujjain Ahead Of IND Vs NZ 3rd ODI

Despite KL Rahul: Ahead of the decisive third ODI against New Zealand, Indian wicketkeeper batter KL Rahul visited the Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva before the series decider at Holkar Stadium in Indore on Sunday. During his visit, Rahul offered prayers at one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. He also performed ritual worship of Nandi. The Indian star has visited the Mahakal Temple multiple times. Ahead of the start of IPL 2024, Rahul arrived with his parents after the Bhasma Aarti and prayed for his teams success ahead of the tournament. He has also visited the temple with his wife Athiya Shetty, before the start of the Indore Test in 2023. Rahul is in splendid form in the ongoing ODI series against New Zealand. The 32-year-old scored a magnificent hundred in the second 50 over match. The Indian star remained unbeaten on 112 as he hammered 11 fours and one six against the Black Caps. Despite KL Rahuls knock, India suffered a seven wicket loss against the Black Caps as Daryl Mitchells century helped New Zealand go over the line and level the series 1 1. Before Rahul, Indian coach Gautam Gambhir and Sitanshu Kotak arrived at the Mahakal Temple at around 4 am to take part in the Bhasma Aarti. Despite KL Rahuls knock, India suffered a seven wicket loss against the Black Caps as Daryl Mitchells century helped New Zealand go over the line and level the series 1 1. Also Read: Live Cricket Score After the Aarti concluded, Gambhir and Kotak had darshan of Lord Mahakal from the temple threshold. They also offered water to Nandi as part of the customary rituals. This was not Gautam Gambhirs first visit to the temple. He had also come for darshan along with his family around five months ago. So far, Gambhir has participated in the Bhasma Aarti on four occasions. Article Source: IANS

U19 World Cup: Henil Patel Credits Steyn's Aggression For His Match-winning Spell Vs USA

U19 World Cup: India U19 pacer Henil Patel credited former South Africa pacer Dale Steyn as his inspiration behind his match-winning performance against the USA at the ICC Under-19 Mens Cricket World Cup. Patel delivered a match-winning spell of 5 for 16 against the USA on Thursday as India cruised to a six-wicket win and began their U19 World Cup campaign in style. Patel said that growing up, Steyn was his favourite bowler, and he attempts to copy Steyn's bowling style. What I get from Dale Steyn is that I like his aggression a lot, Patel told ICC Digital. His bowling was so good that there was no batter who could play against him easily because he was so tough to face. It was the third-best bowling performance by an Indian in any Mens Under-19 World Cup. Only Kamal Passis 6 for 23 against Zimbabwe in 2012 and Anukul Roys 5 for 14 against Papua New Guinea in 2018 are better. Three of Patels five wickets came during a strong new-ball spell at Queens Sports Club. This left the USA struggling at 34 for 4. The soft-spoken 18-year-old later said that his success early on came from pitching the ball up, aiming for the stumps, and always looking for wickets. I have a mindset to get the batter out within three to four deliveries, Patel declared. I go into training with a proper mindset, I get my body ready and it's the same in a match. It's all about taking early wickets, I go with the same mindset and I stay calm. Five-time winners India inserted in the USA after winning the toss, and Henil Patel instantly validated that decision by delivering a fiery opening spell that broke the resistance of the USA top order. The right-arm pacer picked up three wickets inside the first 12 overs as the USA were reduced to 35/4. I have a mindset to get the batter out within three to four deliveries, Patel declared. I go into training with a proper mindset, I get my body ready and it's the same in a match. It's all about taking early wickets, I go with the same mindset and I stay calm. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India will be back in action against Bangladesh for their second game in Group A on Saturday. Article Source: IANS

ICC To Send A Delegation To Bangladesh Amid T20 WC Venue Change Row

T20 World Cup: In a bid to resolve the ongoing impasse over Bangladeshs participation in the upcoming T20 World Cup, the International Cricket Council (ICC) is set to send a delegation to Bangladesh for in-person discussions ahead of the tournament scheduled to be held in India and Sri Lanka from February 7. ICC sources have confirmed to IANS that the delegation will travel in a few days for a final one-on-one meeting with Bangladesh Cricket Board officials regarding the T20 World Cup, and a decision will be announced after it. The ICC's visit is seen as a crucial step, as previous attempts to resolve the issue via email and virtual meetings failed to yield any breakthrough. ICC delegation will travel to Bangladesh in a few days for a final one-on-one meeting with BCB (Bangladesh Cricket Board) officials regarding the T20 World Cup, and a decision will be announced after it, ICC sources told IANS. The development comes after the Bangladesh Cricket Board and the sports ministry took a strong stand on not playing any matches in India, following the BCCI asking IPL franchise KKR to remove Bangladeshi player Mustafizur Rehman from the squad. ICC delegation will travel to Bangladesh in a few days for a final one-on-one meeting with BCB (Bangladesh Cricket Board) officials regarding the T20 World Cup, and a decision will be announced after it, ICC sources told IANS. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The ICC previously held a video conference with the BCB. The meeting focused on Bangladeshs participation in the global tournament, with the BCB once again requesting that its matches be relocated outside India. While the ICC pointed out that the tournament schedule has already been finalised and urged the BCB to reconsider its position, the Bangladesh Cricket Board remained firm. Both sides agreed to continue discussions to find a possible resolution. Article Source: IANS

India Is A Very Tough Team To Beat, Especially At Home: Dinesh Karthik

T20 World Cup: Former India wicketkeeper Dinesh Karthik believes defending champions India remain a formidable force heading into the ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026, citing the teams depth, attacking approach and strong record in home conditions. With less than a month to go before the marquee tournament begins, Karthik, along with Nasser Hussain and Ian Bishop, shared insights on Team India's prospects in the upcoming multi-national tournament, which is set to start on February 7. India is a very tough team to beat in most parts of the world, but when it comes to their own backyard, they play some seriously good cricket, Karthik told Jiostar. Everybody is aware of the depth in Indian cricket, which is fascinating to see because they could almost put up a couple of teams and still compete quite comfortably, given the recent success theyve had. Its a fairly fresh team theyre coming up with now. There are no longer the likes of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. They have a new captain in Suryakumar Yadav and a very young side, and theyve played some fabulous, very attacking cricket, he added. Former West Indies cricketer Ian Bishop stressed that while history is not always decisive, Indias preparation between World Cups gives them an edge as defending champions. History has some bearing, but I dont think it is the be-all and end-all. There are a number of cautionary tales. West Indies were champions in 2016, but when the tournament was played again in 2021, they didnt go very far. From the womens side, New Zealand came in after losing a lot of games and then went on to win the World Cup in 2024, Bishop said. With India being the defending champions, it depends on how theyve built between World Cups, and I think theyve built pretty well. So their history will be a positive one, he added. Bishop also highlighted dew as a major challenge teams could face during the tournament in India and Sri Lanka in February and March. One of the biggest challenges in India at that time of year is dew, which plays a massive role. I remember the 2016 semi-final at the Wankhede Stadium. India scored over 190, but the dew made it difficult to field, and West Indies chased it down. Dew played a huge part in that game, and it remains a big factor in subcontinent conditions, he said. Former England captain Nasser Hussain spoke about the evolution of T20 cricket and why the format continues to attract global attention. Teams have gravitated towards white-ball specialists, and those specialists have gravitated towards T20 cricket because of its popularity. While many still love Test cricket, if you ask fans, especially in this part of the world, what their favourite format is, many will say T20, Hussain said. Thats why a T20 World Cup is such a massive tournament, particularly when its held in India and Sri Lanka. Its a shop window as well. Perform on the biggest stage under pressure, and franchises around the world are watching. Its a format that produces upsets and unforgettable stories, and thats what makes it so exciting, he added. In the Mens T20 World Cup, defending champions India have been placed in Group A alongside Pakistan, USA, Netherlands and Namibia. Thats why a T20 World Cup is such a massive tournament, particularly when its held in India and Sri Lanka. Its a shop window as well. Perform on the biggest stage under pressure, and franchises around the world are watching. Its a format that produces upsets and unforgettable stories, and thats what makes it so exciting, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Indias marquee clash against Pakistan is scheduled for February 15 at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, before the side plays its final league stage game against the Netherlands at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on February 18. Article Source: IANS

Ian Harvey joins Nepal as bowling consultant ahead of T20 World Cup

Ian Harvey will work with fellow Australian Stuart Law, who is the head coach of Nepal

Litchfield and Kerr rise in WPL Orange and Purple Cap leaderboards

Harmanpreet Kaur and Nandani Sharma are still the top run-getter and top wicket-taker in the competition

WPL 2026: Harleen Deol's Inning Against Mumbai Was A Statement From Her, Says Deep Dasgupta

Match Centre Live: Former India wicketkeeper Deep Dasgupta, labeled Harleen Deols measured 64 as not just an innings, but as a statement as UP Warriorz registered their first win of the Womens Premier League (WPL) 2026 with a composed chase against Mumbai Indians. Speaking on JioHotstars Match Centre Live, Dasgupta hailed Deols knock as a defining response, coming just a day after she was controversially retired out in the previous game. UP Warriorz produced a disciplined all-round performance to beat Mumbai Indians, first restricting them to 161 for 5 and then overhauling the target with 11 balls to spare. The bowlers laid the foundation with a controlled effort, applying pressure through the innings and never allowing Mumbai to break free. At the centre of the chase was Deol, who struck a fluent 64 off 39 balls, anchoring the innings with poise and authority. Her timing, particularly through the off-side, stood out as she paced the chase intelligently and ensured there were no late stumbles. Twenty-four hours makes a huge difference. Harleen Deols knock of 64 runs against Mumbai Indians showed that, Dasgupta said. After being retired out by UP Warriorzs head coach Abhishek Nayar last night against Delhi Capitals, this innings showed her hunger. It was phenomenal. It was a sublime piece of batting. Usually, after something like that, a player gets angry and tries to hit every ball for four or six. But Harleen did not play a single shot in anger. Every shot was beautifully timed and elegant. It was not just an innings, it was a statement. Dasgupta also underlined the broader significance of the win for UP Warriorz, who had been searching for momentum early in the season. You never want to see teams not reach their potential. UP Warriorz have great potential with talented players. It has been about a new coach in Abhishek Nayar and a new captain in Meg Lanning finding the best way to bring them together, he said. Twenty-four hours makes a huge difference. Harleen Deols knock of 64 runs against Mumbai Indians showed that, Dasgupta said. After being retired out by UP Warriorzs head coach Abhishek Nayar last night against Delhi Capitals, this innings showed her hunger. It was phenomenal. It was a sublime piece of batting. Usually, after something like that, a player gets angry and tries to hit every ball for four or six. But Harleen did not play a single shot in anger. Every shot was beautifully timed and elegant. It was not just an innings, it was a statement. Also Read: Live Cricket Score He added that the simplicity of UPs approach proved decisive. They didnt try anything fancy, just stuck to the basics. They started with seamers and stuck with it. The run chase was clinical. Their fielding was very good. In T20, you dont want to overcomplicate decisions. UPs strategy was simple, straight from the playbook, and it worked, Dasgupta said, suggesting that if the combination is retained, UP Warriorz could become a serious force as the WPL 2026 intensifies. Article Source: IANS

From Hawke's Bay to Rajkot, Lennox puts his name up in the lights

After toiling away in club cricket and domestic cricket for years, Jayden Lennox earned his international debut in Rajkot and made an immediate impression

WPL 2026: Harleen Is Second Best Indian Batter After Harmanpreet, Says UP Warriorz Head Coach Nayar

Head Coach Abhishek Nayar: UP Warriorz Head coach Abhishek Nayar praised Harleen Deol for her magnificent half-century against Mumbai Indians and credited her as second best Indian batter after Harmanpreet Kaur. UP Warriorz secured their first victory of the Womens Premier League (WPL) 2026 with a controlled performance against Mumbai Indians, restricting their opponents to 161-5 before completing the chase with 11 balls to spare. The bowlers set the platform with a disciplined display, applying pressure through the innings and ensuring Mumbai Indians were kept in check. At the heart of the chase was Harleen Deol, who produced a composed and authoritative knock of 64 off 39 balls. Displaying excellent timing and balance, Harleen found the boundaries with regularity, particularly through the off-side, and played a key role in guiding the UP Warriorz to get over the line. Speaking about Harleen Deols approach and growth, Head Coach Abhishek Nayar said, For Harleen, it has always been about the team first and herself second, and that belief has stayed strong within this group. Ive always encouraged her to see herself as both a touch and power player, because my mindset is to push Indian cricketers to the next level. Shes now the second Indian batter after Harmanpreet to score a fifty this season, and thats exactly what we wanted to see. At the heart of the chase was Harleen Deol, who produced a composed and authoritative knock of 64 off 39 balls. Displaying excellent timing and balance, Harleen found the boundaries with regularity, particularly through the off-side, and played a key role in guiding the UP Warriorz to get over the line. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Highlighting the importance of leadership within the group, the head coach added, T20 cricket is about strong leadership, and Meg Lanning has been outstanding. Shes hands-on, deeply involved, and very meticulous in understanding the strengths and weaknesses of this group. As the tournament progresses, you really see the impact she has, she is the boss of this team. Article Source: IANS

Coaching women has 'not been easy' - Nayar learns on the job at UP Warriorz

In women's cricket, I think the attention to detail is a little more, Abhishek Nayar, who is coaching a women's team for the first time, says

Boycott off, BPL expected to resume on Friday

The BCB officials have assured us that they will fulfil our demands as early as possible, players' association chief Mohammad Mithun says

Baartman hat-trick sets up Royals' bonus-point win

After Baartman's 5 for 16 skittled out Capitals, Hermann's boundary-laden knock helped Royals to a thumping win and go on top

Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Gujarat Giants, Match 9, WPL 2026, Who will win today RCB-W vs GG-W match?

RCB-W vs GG-W, Match 9, Cricket Tips :Royal Challengers Bengaluru have had a great start to the WPL 2026, as they have been at the top of the table with two consecutive games. Smriti Mandhana and her team will aim for another win as they take on Gujarat Giants Women on Friday at Dr. DY Patil Stadium at 7:30 PM IST. RCB-W have been successful in restricting the opposition to a below-par score in both games. Their bowlers have done well. Especially Lauren Bell, Nadine de Klerk, and Shreyanka Patil. With the bat, Grace Harris, Mandhana, and De Klerk have contributed. GG-W have been pretty good with the bat as well, but their bowlers have leaked runs in all three games, which resulted in a defeat against MI-W. RCB-W vs GG-W: Match Details Date : January 16, 2026 (Friday) Time : 7:30 PM IST Venue : Dr DY Patil Sports Academy, Navi Mumbai RCB-W vs GG-W Live Streaming Details In India the live telecast of the WPL 2026 will be available on Star Sports Networks. Fans can also watch the match on the Jio Hotstar streaming platform. RCB-W vs GG-W: Head-to-Head in WPL Total Matches : 6 Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women : 3 Gujarat Giants Women : 3 No-Result : 0 RCB-W vs GG-W: Ground Pitch Report It is batting paradise in Navi Mumbai, where if you miss your length, batters will hit you out of the park. You have to be very smart as a bowler. Though the new ball will swing, it won't do much, and batting will be easier with time. RCB-W vs GG-W: Possible XIs Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women : Grace Harris, Dayalan Hemalatha, Smriti Mandhana (c), Richa Ghosh (wk), Nadine de Klerk, Gautami Naik, Radha Yadav, Arundhati Reddy, Shreyanka Patil, Linsey Smith, Lauren Bell Gujarat Giants Women : Beth Mooney (wk), Ashleigh Gardner (c), Sophie Devine, Bharti Fulmali, Georgia Wareham, Ayushi Soni, Kanika Ahuja, Tanuja Kanwer, Kashvee Gautam, Rajeshwari Gayakwad, Renuka Singh Thakur RCB-W vs GG-W: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Grace Harris is our pick from RCB-W. She scored a blistering fifty in the last game. Sophie Devine will be key for GG-W. She is in good form and has played for RCB-W for three seasons. Probable Best Bowler Lauren Bell bowls a very crucial spell with the new ball. If she can manage a couple of early wickets, RCBW will be on top. For GG-W, Renuka Thakur has bowled well with the new ball so far. Today Match Prediction : Both teams have their own strengths, but for us, RCB-W are looking good because of their bowling unit, which has performed well. RCB-W vs GG-W Match 9, WPL 2026, Today Match RCB-W vs GG-W, RCB-W vs GG-W Prediction, RCB-W vs GG-W Predicted XIs, Injury Update of the match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women vs Gujarat Giants Women 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

WPL 2026: Just Got A Few Boundary Balls, Sometimes It's Just Your Day, Says Harleen

Dr DY Patil Stadium: Harleen Deol said she was relieved to help UP Warriorz get their first win of the 2026 Womens Premier League (WPL) season, saying that her getting a few boundary balls from the Mumbai Indians bowlers meant she knew this could be her day to make big runs in Match 8 at the Dr DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai on Thursday. A day after being retired out for 47, Harleen stepped up to hit an unbeaten 64 off 39 balls, laced with 12 boundaries, as UPW chased down 162 with 11 balls to spare. Feels good, happy for the team for the first win. Actually, yesterday too I was batting well. As you saw today, how Chloe can change the scenario. I just took it that way. She's someone who can hit big, but that didn't go our way. That's how I look at it, said Harleen after receiving the Player of the Match award. Harleen dismissed concerns about being retired out in a previous game, saying her preparation remained consistent. Nothing different today. I just got a few boundary balls; sometimes it's just your day. Normal prep for me, I was batting well yesterday also, no point in keeping stressing on that thing (retired out). The first two games didn't go my way. I was overhitting earlier. This wasn't the wicket to do that, she said. She further explained how conditions improved as the match progressed, making scoring easier in the second innings. In the first innings, the wicket was tough to score on. Then it got better, so we were just looking to hit, and balls were coming by themselves. I'm someone who looks at ways to contribute. Chloe played a vital cameo of 27 not out to ensure UPW suffered no late jitters in the chase. Harleen was just talking about finishing that over. But, the ball before that I hit it for six, and I said, I'm probably gonna go for another one and then it went down leg. So, we'll take the win, though. I'm really excited to be on the board, she said. She sounded philosophical about her limited opportunities with the previous franchise, the Mumbai Indians, across three WPL seasons. Look, it was a great franchise to be part of. But it was nice to play against them today. I definitely wanted to get the win today, but look, it was really a good game for us. I think we sort of really went well with the ball, she said. She praised Harleens batting performance while noting the challenging fielding conditions late in the innings. I knew at the backend it was gonna get a little bit dewy. We were struggling to hold the ball a little bit. So we just knew we had to pick up balls, and I think Harleen just played beautifully and set it up for us. Chloe took two crucial catches despite sustaining an injury to her right elbow, including the prized wicket of opposition captain Harmanpreet Kaur. I think it's gonna stick to my bed tonight, hopefully I can get some stuff to put over it. But look, I'm just happy I took that catch and a big wicket against Harman. So, happy it stuck in the hands, and then happy I got another one from Nat as well. It's still burning. My hand is still burning, but it's okay. I was anticipating the wrong way, and then I realised it was going the other way. So I'm happy that I got to it. And then hopefully I just stuck my hands out, and I'm happy it stuck, she explained. The win will help settle UPW nerves in the dressing room, felt Chloe. It's a special group. I think yesterday we played really hard. We felt that we probably didn't have enough runs yesterday, but the fact that we fought to the last over really shows the fight and the belief that we have in the group. So we just spoke about just those one percenters, just believing in ourselves, reflecting a little bit from yesterday, but just making sure that we stick as a group today, and hopefully just get the win. So I'm happy that we actually stuck to our plan today, she said. She also acknowledged the bowling unit's struggles in the death overs but praised the batting group's response. Like I said, probably in the bowling innings, it didn't really go our way in the last four overs of the match, but the way they came out, and they batted and set the powerplay up first, and then Harleen just finished it off, there was even better. So we just spoke about just those one percenters, just believing in ourselves, reflecting a little bit from yesterday, but just making sure that we stick as a group today, and hopefully just get the win. So I'm happy that we actually stuck to our plan today, she said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score We got a little bit of momentum. We're playing them in the next two days. So it's a good time to just reflect on the positives and just keep building on that. Hopefully, we can get another win from them in the next two days. Simple, it's just cricket, she said. Article Source: IANS

Shaheen Afridi Back In Nets To Boost Pakistan's T20 World Cup Hopes: Report.

T20 World Cup: Pakistan spearhead Shaheen Shah Afridi has started training after an injury break, sending a sigh of relief for the teams Twenty20 World Cup chances, with the medical officer confident he will be at his best by next week, according to a news report on Thursday. Shaheen Afridi returned to the nets on Thursday with a 15-minute bowling spell and as much batting, and he remained on course for anearly return after reports claimed that he might miss the T20 World Cup after suffering an injury while playing in the Big Bash League (BBL), Telecom Asia Sport reported. Shaheen bowled for a good 15 minutes with a full run-up and showed no signs of discomfort in the nets, which is a good sign for Pakistan because he is a vital cog in Pakistans bowling attack for the coming World Cup, sources in the PCB medical panel told www.telecomasia.net on Thursday. Earlier, there were fears that Shaheen Afridi might miss next months T20 World Cup with the recurrence of a knee injury, which ended his participation in Pakistans matches in 2022, especially in the final of the Twenty20 World Cup against England at the MCG. His rehab is complete, and now he is bowling, which means that he can feature in the three-match series against Australia later this month, but the management may not want to risk him before going to Sri Lanka, the source told Telecom Asia Sport. Pakistans newly appointed medical panel head, Dr. Javed Mughal, supervised Shaheens rehab and showed satisfaction over the fitness process, and has suggested some precautionary measures for the pacer. The medical panel has suggested some exercises for Shaheen and will guide him to bowl for 15 minutes to 25 minutes and then for a longer period. Understandably, the medical panel would suggest not to play him against Australia and instead play him in the warm-up matches before the World Cup, the report quoted the source as saying. The 25-year-old damaged his left knee during the Big Bash League in Australia during his not-so very successful maiden appearance for Brisbane Heat, taking just two wickets in four matches at a costly average of 76.5 per wicket. He was also suspended from bowling after two beamers in the opening match against the Perth Scorchers. The MRI done in Brisbane had shown no serious injury, but the Pakistan Cricket Board deemed it wise to withdraw Shaheen from the Big Bash League and recalled him to Lahore. According to the report, sources close to Shaheen Afridi told www.telecomasia.net that they had denied reports and showed confidence that the fast bowler will be ready for the start of the T20 World Cup. Pakistan have included Shaheen Afridi in the preliminary 20-man squad for the World Cup, subject to fitness. The 15-member squad will be finalised by head coach Mike Hesson. The MRI done in Brisbane had shown no serious injury, but the Pakistan Cricket Board deemed it wise to withdraw Shaheen from the Big Bash League and recalled him to Lahore. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Pakistan will play its opening match against the Netherlands in Colombo on February 7 and then against the USA three days later. Their high-profile match against India will be on February 15. Pakistan will wrap up their Group A match against Namibia on February 18. Article Source: IANS

Deol, Tryon power Warriorz to first win of season

Barely 24 hours after she had been contentiously retired out, Deol struck an unbeaten 64 off 39 balls to consign MI to their second loss in four games

WPL 2026: Deol, Tryon End UPW's Winless Run With Seven-wicket Victory Over MI (ld)

Mumbai Indians Match: Harleen Deol struck a fabulous 64 not out off 39 balls as UP Warriorz ended their winless streak with a commanding seven-wicket victory over Mumbai Indians in Match 8of the Women's Premier League (WPL) 2026 at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai on Thursday. Deol, who was controversially retired out the previous night on 47, dominated MI's bowling attack with clinical strokeplay on the off-side. She carved out cuts, drives, and late-cuts with such authoritative precision and flawless timing that MI appeared helpless despite adjusting their field placements. Deol's timing was flawless throughout, making fielding positions irrelevant as she pierced gaps at will. Phoebe Litchfield provided steady support with 25, while Chloe Tryon hit an unbeaten 27 to ensure there were no late jitters, as UPW secured their first win of the season with 11 balls to spare, thanks to an offside masterclass from Harleen. UPWs chase began with Kiran Navgire surviving an lbw appeal off Nicola Carey, as the review went in the batters favour on umpires call, while Shabnim Ismail kept things tight. Meg Lanning found her boundaries through a square drive and cut, while Kiran joined in with backtoback fours off Shabnim. Nat SciverBrunts introduction saw Meg pull her first ball for four, and then sweep a slower offcutter for six. A dropped chance of Meg at point-position added to MIs frustration. But the game turned sharply in the first over after Power-play, when Nat had both Meg and Kiran caught by Sajeevan Sajana at deep squareleg while trying to pull. Harleen, looking to prove a point after being retired out for 47, struck four fours in her first six deliveries, with a classy steer in the gap through the off-side against Nicola being the standout shot. Phoebe got going with her inside-out and square drives, before smacking Amelia over long-on for six. Harleens onslaught continued with three boundaries off Shabnim square drive through point was followed by a drive and a deft late cut guided past third man. Even as Harleen got more boundaries via drive and pull, Phoebe miscued a hoick to square leg and became Amelias first scalp of the game. Harleen raised a fluent half-century off 32 balls with a slog sweep through square leg off Sanskriti Gupra, and followed up with drives to get two more boundaries. With Chloe hitting crucial boundaries via lofts, sweep, pull, and short-arm jab, UPW finally managed to get their first win of the competition. Previously, SciverBrunt smashed 65 off 43 balls while Nicola remained unbeaten on 32 off 20 deliveries as Mumbai Indians recovered from a slow start to post 161/5. MI flexed their batting depth in a brutal final seven overs, fetching them 83 runs after finding themselves at a precarious 78/3 in 13 overs. While SciverBrunt hit nine fours and a six in her knock, where she toyed with fields and timed the ball beautifully, Nicola hit five quickfire boundaries, as UPW were unable to contain the late onslaught after maintaining control through the middle overs. MIs innings had a stuttering start as Amanjot Kaur, promoted to open the batting in the absence of Hayley Matthews, and G Kamalini struggled to get going against UPW's new-ball attack, leaving MI with their lowest powerplay score of the season 32/0. In a bid to up the ante, Amanjot went for a slog-sweep, but holed out to deep mid-wicket off Deepti Sharma, while Kamalini holed out to long-off against Sophie Ecclestone. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur provided brief resistance with an 11-ball 16 before falling to a spectacular catch by Chloe Tryon off Asha Sobhana Joy. The match shifted decisively when Nat and Nicola combined for a devastating 85-run partnership off 43 balls. The pair launched a calculated assault on the UP bowling, hammering 33 runs from the 15th and 16th overs combined to wrest control of the innings, followed by plundering 11 and 15 runs from overs 17 and 18 respectively. Despite managing just one boundary in the final two overs, Nat and Nicola had already inflicted sufficient damage to help MI reach a competitive total. But that was inadequate to stop UPW and a rampaging Harleen to get their first win of the competition. The match shifted decisively when Nat and Nicola combined for a devastating 85-run partnership off 43 balls. The pair launched a calculated assault on the UP bowling, hammering 33 runs from the 15th and 16th overs combined to wrest control of the innings, followed by plundering 11 and 15 runs from overs 17 and 18 respectively. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Mumbai Indians 161/5 in 20 overs (Nat Sciver-Brunt 65, Amanjot Kaur 38; Shikha Pandey 1-25, Sophie Ecclestone 1-26) lost to UP Warriorz 162/3 in 18.1 overs (Harleen Deol 64 not out, Chloe Tryon 27 not out; Nat Sciver-Brunt 2-28, Amelia Kerr 1-42) by seven wickets Article Source: IANS

In MP's 'mini-Brazil', Cambodian Coach Trains Local Youth In Football Skills

Prime Minister Narendra Modi: The Shahdol district in Madhya Pradesh, often referred as 'mini Brazil' is in high spirits. The reason behind is a celebrated footballer from Cambodia arriving in the city for handholding the new and emerging talent and honing the skills of football players with latest techniques. Charlie Pomeroy, the international football coach, has introduced the football players from the village to international-level football techniques. He is counselling the young as well as experienced footballers, getting them mentally and physically prepared to enhance their game and also enlightening with the techniques employed by successful players during major tournaments. Speaking about his visit to Madhya Pradesh, Charlie Pomeroy said that he heard a lot about 'Mini Brazil' of Shahdol district and harboured a desire to nurture grassroots talent into international level players. Sharing his first-hand assessment of the game and sporting spirit in the village, he said that Shahdol is continuously evolving in the field of football and the players need to continue working hard despite challenges as long-drawn endeavour would eventually earn them big results. Notably, Madhya Pradesh's 'Mini Brazil' and the football players' passion and dedication spanning across generations, were mentioned in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Mann Ki Baat' programme and also in a podcast during his visit to the US. Inspired by this broadcast and social media content, Charlie Pomeroy, the technical head coach of the Cambodian-based FC NGO and an international football coach, arrived in Vicharpur village, where he has been training local players on new skills, improved techniques, fitness, etc. Charlie Pomeroy says that through this project, he has learned that the football community in India is quite large. There are a huge number of people who love football and India is not just a cricket-playing nation, he added. Just as India produces excellent cricket players, it can also produce excellent footballers, Coach Pomeroy told IANS. There are a huge number of people who love football and India is not just a cricket-playing nation, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score He met with the local players, including those who had returned from Germany after receiving modern football training. Article Source: IANS

Men's U19 World Cup: Windies Make Winning Start With Win Over Tanzania

SCOTLAND ABANDONED WITHOUT TOSS: The 2016 winner, the West Indies, made a winning start, beating Tanzania by five wickets in their opening match of the ICC Men's Under-19 Cricket World Cup at the High Performance Oval in Windhoek, Namibia, to go top of Group D. Meanwhile, the match between Zimbabwe and Scotland in Harare was abandoned without a ball being bowled. At the High Performance Oval in Windhoek, Tanez Francis was the star with the bat for the Windies, having scored a fine half-century after Vitel Lawes-led bowling effort restricted Tanzania to a very chaseable score of 121. Windies had opted to bowl first after winning the toss. Dylan Thakrar and Darpan Jobanputra gave Tanzania a solid start with a 53-run opening stand. Jonathan van Lange gave West Indies the breakthrough that triggered a Tanzanian collapse. Lawes led the charge for the Windies, picking up three wickets as the Tanzanian innings folded for just 121 in 34 overs. Francis then took charge with the bat in Windhoek as he stitched an 80-run stand with Jewel Andrew after seeing opening partner Zackary Carter depart early to put the Windies on the cusp of victory. Andrew and Francis fell in quick succession, either side of the half-century mark, as Tanzania picked up four wickets in quick succession to put Windies 114/5. However, it wasn't enough to prevent them from losing the game as the Windies eased to the target to pick up their first win of the tournament. Windies take on Afghanistan in their next match in Group D on Sunday, before Tanzania face South Africa on Monday. Both matches will be held at the High Performance Oval in Windhoek. ZIMBABWE-SCOTLAND ABANDONED WITHOUT TOSS Windies take on Afghanistan in their next match in Group D on Sunday, before Tanzania face South Africa on Monday. Both matches will be held at the High Performance Oval in Windhoek. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The hosts face England in their next match on Sunday, while Scotland take on Pakistan on Monday, with both games taking place at Takashinga Sports Club in Harare Article Source: IANS

Aman Mokhade equals record for quickest 1000 runs in List A cricket

He reached the landmark in just 16 innings and is the quickest Indian to achieve the record

Nalkande, Mokhade knock Karnataka out to propel Vidarbha into successive finals

Nalkande's five-wicket haul would have been the most impactful performance on another day if not for Mokhade's masterful century in the Vijay Hazare Trophy semi-final

Naveen-ul-Haq ruled out of T20 World Cup; Rashid Khan leaves SA20 for national duty

Afghanistan are yet to announce a replacement for Naveen, while Rashid has linked up with the national team

WPL 2026: Nat Sciver-Brunts 65, Nicola Careys 32 Not Out Carry MI To 161/5 Against UPW

DY Patel Stadium: On return to the playing eleven, Nat Sciver-Brunt smashed 65 off 43 balls while Nicola Carey remained unbeaten on 32 off 20 deliveries as defending champions Mumbai Indians recovered from a slow start to post 161/5 against UP Warriorz in their Women's Premier League (WPL) 2026 clash at the Dr. DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai on Thursday. Mumbai Indians (MI) flexed their batting depth in a brutal final seven overs, fetching them 83 runs after finding themselves at a precarious 78/3 in 13 overs. While Sciver-Brunt hit nine fours and a six in her knock, where she toyed with fields and timed the ball beautifully, Carey hit five quickfire boundaries. UP Warriorz, meanwhile, will rue their inability to contain the late onslaught after maintaining control through the middle overs. The chase now rests on their batters to overhaul a target that looked unlikely when they had MI in trouble at the end of 13 overs. MIs innings had a stuttering start as Amanjot Kaur, promoted to open the batting in the absence of Hayley Matthews, and G. Kamalini struggled to get going against UPW's new-ball attack, leaving MI with their lowest Power-play score of the season 32/0. In a bid to up the ante, Amanjot went for a slog-sweep, but holed out to deep mid-wicket off Deepti Sharma, while Kamalini holed out to long-off against Sophie Ecclestone. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur provided brief resistance with an 11-ball 16 before falling to a spectacular catch by Chloe Tryon off Asha Sobhana Joy. The match shifted decisively when Sciver-Brunt and Carey combined for a devastating 85-run partnership off 43 balls. The pair launched a calculated assault on the UP bowling, hammering 33 runs from the 15th and 16th overs combined to wrest control of the innings, followed by plundering 11 and 15 runs from overs 17 and 18 respectively. Despite managing just one boundary in the final two overs, Nat and Nicola had already inflicted sufficient damage to help MI reach what appears to be a competitive total on the tricky pitch. The match shifted decisively when Sciver-Brunt and Carey combined for a devastating 85-run partnership off 43 balls. The pair launched a calculated assault on the UP bowling, hammering 33 runs from the 15th and 16th overs combined to wrest control of the innings, followed by plundering 11 and 15 runs from overs 17 and 18 respectively. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Mumbai Indians 161/5 in 20 overs (Nat Sciver-Brunt 65, Amanjot Kaur 38; Shikha Pandey 1-25, Sophie Ecclestone 1-26) against UP Warriorz Article Source: IANS