Australia's Selection Headache: Changes Loom For 3rd Test
Australia's cricket team is facing significant selection challenges and tough decisions regarding their line-up for the series-deciding third Test against South Africa in Cape Town, following a heavy innings defeat in the second match.
India Batter Sabbineni Meghana Announces Retirement From All Forms Of Cricket
Royal Challengers Bangalore: Indian women's team top-order batter Sabbineni Meghana has announced her retirement from all the forms of cricket on Friday. A solid top-order batter Meghana, born in Andhra Pradesh, represented Railways in the domestic circuit. She made her international debut in a WODI series against New Zealand in 2022. Meghana represented India in three ODIs and 17 T20Is. She was then part of the Indian team that won silver at the 2022 Commonwealth Games. However, she has since failed to break into the T20 setup and missed out on subsequent ICC events. Stepping onto the field for the very first time with a bat in hand to wear a jersey on world stage has been nothing short of a dream come true. As I announce my retirement from all formats of cricket as a player, my heart is overflowing with gratitude. The field has been my second home, teaching me resilience, humility, and giving me memories and friendships that I will carry for a lifetime, Meghana wrote in a social media post. To my family, who stood by me through every peak and valley, thank you for your endless sacrifices. To my coaches, teammates, support staff, thank you for pushing me to be my best and sharing the dressing room with me. And to the fans, your cheers under the floodlights fuelled every single stride I took, she wrote. Meghana was signed by the Gujarat Giants in the inaugural edition of the WPL and moved to Royal Challengers Bangalore in 2024. She was part of the RCB squad that lifted the trophy in 2024. I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to the BCCI, the Andhra Cricket Association, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Gujarat Giants, and RSPB for their constant support, guidance, and backing throughout my career. Thank you for giving me the platform and opportunities to pursue my passion at the highest level, Meghana added. Meghana was signed by the Gujarat Giants in the inaugural edition of the WPL and moved to Royal Challengers Bangalore in 2024. She was part of the RCB squad that lifted the trophy in 2024. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Brook breaks Gill's record, then calls knock 'worthless'
England skipper Harry Brook scored a historic double century, becoming the first Englishman to achieve the feat in an ODI, but his efforts were in vain as Sri Lanka successfully chased down a massive target of 430 runs. Pavan Rathnayake, Avishka Fernando, Dasun Shanaka, and Janith Liyanage led Sri Lanka's record-breaking chase, securing a stunning victory.
Ayush Mhatre undergoes surgery, out for 3 months
India U-19 World Cup winning skipper and Mumbai vice-captain Ayush Mhatre has undergone successful surgery for a Grade 4 right hamstring tear and is expected to be out of competitive cricket for two to three months. This is his second hamstring injury this year, impacting Mumbai's Ranji Trophy campaign.
Sanju Samson's Big Verdict On India Star, Praises His Rescue Act In 1st T20I vs New Zealand
While Samson's blistering 33-ball 67 anchored India's top order and set the platform for a daunting chase, a middle-order collapse threatened to derail the visitors' pursuit before Naman Dhir's explosive unbeaten 42 off just 15 balls sealed a thrilling four-wicket victory in Christchurch.
David named for Tasmania in push for 2027 ODI World Cup spot
Tim David has been named by Tasmania to face Victoria in a domestic One-Day Cup game on Saturday, with coach Jeff Vaughan confirming he is pushing for the ODI World Cup
Will Vaibhav Sooryavanshi return to India's playing XI?
Ishan Kishan's injury has left the door ajar for the 15 year old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who was seen batting during India's optional practice session on Friday.
Ishan Kishan ruled out of upcoming second T20I against New Zealand due to injury; Check details
In a major blow to the Indian team, star India batter Ishan Kishan has been ruled out of the upcoming second T20I of the ongoing series against New Zealand. It is worth noting that Kishan...
Ishan Kishan ruled out of 2nd T20I against New Zealand
Ishan Kishan is ruled out of the second T20I against New Zealand due to a low grade right adductor strain, which he sustained during the first T20I of the series, a BCCI statement added.
Injured Ishan Kishan ruled out of second T20I against New Zealand
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is the only other specialist batter in the touring party and could come into the XI as Ishan Kishan's replacement
Ishan Kishan Ruled Out Of Second T20I Vs NZ With Abductor Strain: BCCI
The BCCI Medical Team: India wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan has been ruled out of the second T20I against New Zealand due to a low-grade right adductor strain, the BCCI said on Friday. Ishan sustained the injury during the first T20I of the series, which India won by four wickets in Christchurch. The BCCI said the medical team is monitoring Ishan's progress. Ishan Kishan is ruled out of the second T20I against New Zealand due to a low-grade right adductor strain, which he sustained during the first T20I of the series. The BCCI Medical Team is monitoring his progress, the BCCI said in a statement. In the series opener, Ishan was seen batting at No. 5 with Tilak Varma coming at No. 3. Batting coach Sitanshu Kotak while addressing batting order changes, said that the wicketkeeper-batter was dealing with a groin injury. Ishan's absence in the second T20I may open the door for teenage batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi to get a place in the playing 11. There was a lot of speculation I have also seen; just because Ishan had a strain in his groin, the batting order was changed, Kotak told reporters. If Ishan doesnt play, unless he recovers completely, which the medical team will advise, Vaibhav (Sooryavanshi) could definitely step in for him. He is one of the strongest contenders, he added. In the first T20I, India successfully chased down a target of 226, finishing with four wickets in hand and two balls to spare. However, the decision to send Tilak Varma in at No. 3 ahead of Ishan Kishan raised some eyebrows. Varma scored only 6 runs off 11 balls, while Kishan also struggled, lasting just three balls and managing a solitary run. Varma was dismissed by Michael Bracwell, while Kishan fell to Mitchell Santner. With Sooryavanshi graduating to the senior level after setting the IPL stage and U19 cricket on fire, the Indian T20I team has found itself in a selection headache of choosing between the fiery teenager and experienced Samson at the top of the order to pair alongside the explosive Abhishek Sharma. India have played with nearly the same teams in the recent contest T20I series against the West Indies, with the top order featuring Sanju Samson, Abhishek Sharma and Ishan; Sooryavanshi had to warm the bench for the five-match T20I series. With Sooryavanshi graduating to the senior level after setting the IPL stage and U19 cricket on fire, the Indian T20I team has found itself in a selection headache of choosing between the fiery teenager and experienced Samson at the top of the order to pair alongside the explosive Abhishek Sharma. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Injured Ishan Kishan ruled out of second T20I vs NZ
Indian batter Ishan Kishan ruled out of second T20I against New Zealand due to low grade right adductor strain, the BCCI said in a statement.
'Kohli Promised to Call': Amit Mishra On India Snub
Amit Mishra claims Virat Kohli assured him of an India comeback after injury but never responded, despite the leg-spinner regaining full fitness.
Shikhar Mohan in India A squad for last two four-dayers against New Zealand A
India A will play a series of three four-day matches against New Zealand A alongside the senior India team's white-ball matches against New Zealand
Big Blow For CSK Ahead Of IPL 2027 As Ayush Mhatre Set To Be Sidelined For Three Months
Ayush Mhatre had suffered a Grade 4 tear in his right hamstring while running between the wickets on the first day of Mumbai's Ranji Trophy season opener against Chandigarh in Mumbai on October 11.
Taskin returns for first Bangladesh vs West Indies Test
Litton Das, who missed the ODI tri-series in the UAE because of an injury, has been brought in, while Towhid Hridoy has retained his place
'Four Catches? Which Ones?' Glenn Phillips Fact-Checks Reporter After India Loss
New Zealand batter Glenn Phillips had a hilarious exchange with an Indian journalist after the latter questioned him over the number of dropped catches by the hosts during the first T20I in Christchurch on Thursday.
Robinson, Clarke, Hay Among 11 International Players In NZ 'A' Red Ball Squad
High Performance Development Pete Sanford: New Zealand have announced an extended 19-man squad featuring 11 international players for three four-day matches against India A, starting Saturday at Bert Sutcliffe Oval at Lincoln University. Rhys Mariu will captain rhe first two games while captaincy for the third match will be decided in due course. The newest centrally contracted player Nick Kelly is in line to play game three, with fellow capped New Zealand internationals Adi Ashok, Kristian Clarke, Dean Foxcroft, Matt Fisher, Mitch Hay, Jayden Lennox, Ben Lister, Henry Nicholls, and Tim Robinson in line to feature. The A series runs concurrently with the New Zealand vs India white-ball series and New Zealands domestic 50-over competition, meaning thirteen players will be assembled for each match and the remaining squad members will be involved in Ford Trophy. NZ A will get the chance to face off against some of Indias best red-ball talents in likes of Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, and Washington Sundar who have been named in Indias squad for the Hero VIDA Test series against the Blackcaps starting November 19. New Zealand Cricket Head of High Performance Development Pete Sanford said the matches present a great chance to continue to develop New Zealands stocks. We're really looking forward to hosting India A, said Sanford. They've announced a very strong line up which poses a great opportunity for growth as players to test their strengths against international class. There's a huge buzz around having India on our shores and I know the squad are raring to get their domestic summer underway. Match 1: Rhys Mariu (C), Matt Boyle, Max Chu, Kristian Clarke, Dean Foxcroft, Zak Gibson, Mitch Hay (WK), Curtis Heaphy, Simon Keene, Jayden Lennox, Jarrod McKay, Tim Robinson, Fraser Sheat Match 2: Rhys Mariu (C), Matt Boyle, Kristian Clarke, Matt Fisher, Dean Foxcroft, Zak Gibson, Mitch Hay (WK), Curtis Heaphy, Simon Keene, Jayden Lennox, Jarrod McKay, Tim Robinson, Fraser Sheat Match 1: Rhys Mariu (C), Matt Boyle, Max Chu, Kristian Clarke, Dean Foxcroft, Zak Gibson, Mitch Hay (WK), Curtis Heaphy, Simon Keene, Jayden Lennox, Jarrod McKay, Tim Robinson, Fraser Sheat Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Iyer's Special Family Moment in NZ
Shreyas Iyer celebrated India's thrilling T20I victory over New Zealand with an emotional hug for his parents after Sanju Samson and Namn Dhir powered a successful 226-run chase.
Mariu, Nicholls, Lister, Hay in star-studded New Zealand A squad for India A four-dayers
The New Zealand A squad is of 19 members, but the players will be rotated - 13 will be available for each of the three four-dayers, with the others released to play the Ford Trophy
Australia Face Selection Headaches After 'Shambolic' South Africa Defeat
Australia captain Pat Cummins admits it is hard to paper over the cracks after a thumping second Test defeat to South Africa, with the fate of at least three players hanging in the balance. The visitors crashed by an innings and 31 runs at St George's Park in Gqeberha on Thursday to leave the three-Test series finely poised at 1-1 heading into the decider at Cape Town next week. Australia collapsed to 99 all out in their first innings and were then dismissed for 295, with a superb 121 from Travis Head and defiant 40 off 166 balls by nightwatchman Scott Boland the only highlights. The manner of the heavy loss did not go down well in Australia, with headlines ranging from horror show to shambolic Aussies and brutal failures laid bare. Clearly need to be a lot better than that if we want to compete, Cummins said. I think a loss can sometimes kick you into gear. You can maybe paper over the cracks sometimes in a win. Whereas I think in a loss, it makes you ask questions as a player of yourself. Heading into the third Test, there are question marks around at least three players, not least the underperforming Marnus Labuschagne who has gone three years without a Test century. He's actually doing the hard bit, he's getting to 30, Cummins said of number three Labuschagne. I think he's got to find a way to turn those into bigger scores -- 30s aren't going to win you many matches. So, again, we'll work on that in the next couple of days. It's one Test match left in the series, we've got to win this. Recently-recalled opener Nic Maddinson is also on shaky ground after scores of 0, 48, 0 and 8 across the first two Tests, while all-rounder Beau Webster appears vulnerable. Cameron Green is expected to be available for Cape Town after injury sidelined him from the first two Tests while Josh Inglis is also fit. Cooper Connolly is another option. Paceman Boland, who came into the side at Gqeberha at the expense of spinner Nathan Lyon, will be hard to drop given his batting exploits and a five-wicket haul in the first innings. Much will depend on the nature of the Cape Town pitch on whether Australia again opt for four seamers or Lyon is brought back. Cummins admitted some hard decisions would have to be made. That's the challenge. Do you give someone one more game, or do you feel like now is the right time to make a move? he said. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Does it feel like someone's just about to turn the corner, and they're going to be away, or does it now feel like the right time for a change-up?
India Has Found 'A Gem' In Naman Dhir
Naman Dhir's unbeaten 42 off 15 balls secured a thrilling four-wicket win for India against New Zealand in the first T20I, showcasing his potential as a reliable finisher for the national side, drawing praise from cricket legends like Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravi Shastri.
Naman Dhir teeing off in style
What has stood out in the 26-year-olds brief foray at the highest level is his composure and calmness under pressure, and his ability to back his strengths and clear boundaries with consummate ease
What South Africa's Win Over Australia In 2nd Test Means For India's WTC Final Chances
South Africa's innings win over Australia in the second Test in Gqeberha on Thursday has fired the World Test Championship (WTC) final race wide open.
Naman Dhir Shatters 17-Year-Old Record After Brilliant 15-Ball 42 During India's Historic Chase
Naman Dhir shattered a 17-year-old record with his match-winning cameo of 42 not out off 15 balls in the first T20I against New Zealand in Christchurch.
Harry Brook achieves massive feat despite England's heartbreaking loss to Sri Lanka in Rawalpindi
England and Sri Lanka continued their ongoing tri-series by taking on each other in Rawalpindi. The two sides met on October 22nd, and the game went on to be one of the biggest games of the year. The clash saw England kick off the game, coming in to bat first and playing some exceptional cricket .
Sri Lanka trumps Brook's fastest double century to beat England by two wickets in cricket tri-series
Brook's 116-ball 202 propelled England to its fourth highest ODI score of 429-4 before it ran into Sri Lanka's super counterpunch to lose by two wickets
Cummins: Australia can't 'paper over cracks' after innings thrashing
Australia will need to serious consider changes to their batting line-up for the deciding Test in Cape Town
'It Has No Value': Harry Brook's Honest Take On Record-Breaking 202 After Sri Lanka Defeat
Harry Brook became the first Englishman to reach an ODI double ton, the fastest double centurion in ODI cricket and joined Chris Gayle in an elite all-format list at Rawalpindi.
'Everyone wants to have a go at us' - Bavuma on life as world champions
Rabada's spirit, Jansen's performance and Bavuma's own runs offered a strong response from the WTC champions after going down in Durban last week
AGF vs ZIM Final Prediction, Match Preview And Playing XIs
AGF vs ZIM Final, Cricket Tips: The ongoing ODI series in the UAE has found their two finalists. Bangladesh have been eliminated from the tri-series after losing to both teams. Now, Afghanistan and Zimbabwe will be facing each other in the final, which will be played on Friday at 5 PM IST at Sharjah Cricket Stadium. Afghanistan have already beaten Zimbabwe on Monday by a big margin of 158 runs. Sediq Atal slammed a century in that game, and Rashid Khan took four wickets. Zimbabwe failed with the bat. They need to find answers against the Afghan spinners, who have been brilliant in this tri-series. AFG vs ZIM: Match Details Date : October 23, 2026 (Friday) Time : 5:00 PM IST Venue : Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah AFG vs ZIM: Live Streaming Details The final of the tri-series will be accessible for the Indian fans on the FanCode mobile app or website. AFG vs ZIM: Head-to-Head in ODIs Total Matches: 31 Zimbabwe : 10 Afghanistan : 21 No-result: 1 AFG vs ZIM: Ground Pitch Report Sharjah Cricket Ground has a slow surface, which tends to assist the spinners. Slow bowlers will get more out of the wicket, and there will be good grip in this wicket. The toss will be important, because batting first will be ideal because the conditions will slow down in the second inning. AFG vs ZIM: Possible XIs Zimbabwe : Brian Bennett, Ben Curran, Tafadzwa Tsiga, Brendan Taylor (wk), Sikandar Raza (c), Wessly Madhevere, Ryan Burl, Brad Evans, Wellington Masakadza, Ernest Masuku, Blessing Muzarabani Afghanistan : Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Sediqullah Atal, Rahmat Shah (c), Azmatullah Omarzai, Hashmatullah Shahidi, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, AM Ghazanfar, Bilal Sami, Yamin Ahmadzai AFG vs ZIM: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Sediq Atal and Brendan Taylor will be the ones to watch out for. They have scored runs in wins in this tri-series. Probable Best Bowler Rashid Khan and Brad Evans are two in-form bowlers who have taken most wickets in this tri-series. Today Match Prediction : Afghanistan are very dangerous on these surfaces. Their spinners have been dominant. Hence, we predict Afghanistan to win the final. AFG vs ZIM Final, Today Match AFG vs ZIM, AFG vs ZIM Prediction, AFG vs ZIM Predicted XIs, Injury Update for Afghanistan vs Zimbabwe Match Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Disclaimer : The prediction or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.
IND-W vs ZIM-W 1st ODI Prediction, Match Preview And Playing XI
IND-W vs ZIM-W 1st ODI , Cricket Tips :After the T20I series, India Women and Zimbabwe Women will be facing each other in the three-match ODI series. Team India dominated the T20I series and won it by 3-0. Smriti Mandhana and co. will be looking to carry on the momentum in the ODIs. The first ODI will be played at BCA Stadium in Vadodara at 2 PM IST. Zimbabwe have not been able to compete with bat and ball in the T20Is. Only a few players looked in control for Zimbabwe. This is the longer format, and the challenge will be even bigger. Can Zimbabwe find some form and compete against the Indian team? IND-W vs ZIM-W: Match Details Date : October 23, 2026 (Friday) Time : 2:00 PM IST Venue : BCA Stadium, Kotambi, Vadodara IND-W vs ZIM-W: Live Streaming Details Indian fans can watch the live action on the Star Sports Networks. Fans can catch the live stream on Jio Hotstar app or website. IND-W vs ZIM-W: Head-to-Head in ODI Total Matches : 1 Zimbabwe Women : 0 India Women : 1 No Result : 0 IND-W vs ZIM-W: Ground Pitch Report BCA Stadium is known for producing batting-friendly wicket and has an average score of 281 runs. It is a high-scoring venue, and there is very minimal help in it for the bowlers. Although spinners will get some help, as the wicket will be dry. IND-W vs ZIM-W: Possible XIs India Women : Smriti Mandhana , Pratika Rawal, Shafali Verma, Harmanpreet Kaur, Yastika Bhatia, Deepti Sharma, Richa Ghosh (wk), Shree Charani, Kranti Gaud, Renuka Singh, Nandani Sharma Zimbabwe Women: Kelis Ndhlovu, Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano, Beloved Biza, Sharne Mayers, Josephine Nkomo , Modester Mupachikwa (wk), Nyasha Gwanzura, Michelle Mavunga, Francisca Chipare, K Chigora, Tendai Makusha IND-W vs ZIM-W: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Shafali Verma finished the T20I series as the top scorer, and she is in excellent form. For Zimbabwe, Sharne Mayers was brilliant, and she played a great knock in the final game. She will be confident after that knock. Probable Best Bowler Nandani Sharma and Beloved Biza finished as top two wicket-takers in the T20I series, and they used the conditions well. They will be the ones to watch out for. Today Match Prediction : India Women will be the favorite to win this game because of experience, form, and conditions. IND-W vs ZIM-W Match 1st ODI, Today Match IND-W vs ZIM-W, IND-W vs ZIM-W Prediction, IND-W vs ZIM-W Predicted XIs, Injury Update for IND-W vs ZIM-W Match Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Disclaimer : The prediction or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.
Sri Lanka Stun England With Huge Chase After Harry Brook's 202
Janith Liyanage smashed a six off the penultimate ball as Sri Lanka completed the second-highest successful run chase in ODI history, scoring 430-8 to beat England in Rawalpindi on Thursday. Needing eight to win off the last over, Sri Lanka lost two wickets to paceman Josh Tongue, but Liyanage kept his cool to achieve an astonishing victory and overshadow Harry Brook's record-setting knock. The England captain hit the fastest-ever ODI double hundred, making 202 off 116 balls to propel his team to a mammoth 429-4 after they were put in to bat. South Africa hold the record for the highest ODI chase, knocking off a target of 435 against Australia at Johannesburg in 2006. Batters thoroughly dominated in Rawalpindi as Brook also hit the first ODI double century by an England player. However, Sri Lanka proved up to the challenge as Pavan Rathnayake scored 130, with Avishka Fernando and Dasun Shanaka both making 97. Liyanage then led them over the line with a blistering 61 not out off 27 balls. Sri Lanka slid to 24-2 before Rathnayake and Avishka set about transforming the innings, putting on 166 for the third wicket. Rathnayake then combined with Shanaka to lift the tempo with a rapid 133-run stand off just 79 balls, to give Sri Lanka genuine hope. Rathnayake hit 15 fours and three sixes while Shanaka's blazing knock featured eight sixes and six fours, as Sri Lanka delivered a powerful response to Brook's earlier masterclass. Sri Lankan skipper Kusal Mendis was delighted at victory. I'm very happy as a captain, said Mendis. Everyone believed we can do it. Every day we talk about showing the character in team meetings, and it's about showing we can get any score. Brook was full of praise for Sri Lanka. Incredible game of cricket, both teams were exceptional. They played exceptional cricket to knock off 400, said Brook, downplaying his double hundred. It was a nice innings but being on the losing side it has no value whatsoever in my eyes. Brook clobbered 10 sixes and 21 fours as England posted a first 400-plus ODI total in Pakistan. He reached 200 in 114 balls, beating the previous fastest double century in ODIs, by Shubman Gill (117 balls) for India against West Indies last month. Brook was joined in the fireworks by Joe Root, who scored a 66-ball 69 and became the first England batter to complete 8,000 runs, in his 197th one-day international. Brook was dismissed off the final delivery, caught off paceman Liyanage, but not before helping England add 156 runs in the last 10 overs. Opener Tom Banton set the tone with a 51-ball 50 and Will Jacks was 66 not out with three sixes and eight fours. The day looked as if it would surely belong to history-maker Brook, but Sri Lanka had other ideas as the previous highest ODI total at a Pakistan venue of 375-3 was easily surpassed. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Pakistan, who beat Sri Lanka and England in their two games, will face England in Lahore on Sunday in the next match in the tri-series.
Pressure Lene Ka Ni, Dene Ka: Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja's Hilarious Social Media Exchange Viral
India's star spinners Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja engaged in some light-hearted banter on social media.
Sri Lanka's Epic 430 Chase Against England: Here's Where It Stands In ODI History
Sri Lanka scripted a remarkable victory over England in the third match of the Pakistan ODI Tri-Series 2026 on Thursday, chasing down a massive target of 430 after Harry Brook's record-breaking double century powered England to 429/4 in Rawalpindi.
Karachi to host President's Trophy final between State Bank of Pakistan and Markhor IT Solutions
The five-day fixture will begin on October 24
Bangladesh Spinner Reported For Suspect Bowling Action After ODI Debut
Bangladesh off-spinner Aliss Al Islam has been reported for a suspect bowling action following his team's ODI tri-series match against Afghanistan in Sharjah.
Sri Lanka Make a Mockery of 430 in Epic ODI Thriller Vs England
Sri Lanka chased down England's 430-run target to script ODI history, with Pavan Rathnayake's 130, Avishka Fernando's 97 and Dasun Shanaka's explosive 97 overshadowing Harry Brook's record double century.
South Africa Storms Back To Crush Australia By An Innings And Level The Test Series 1-1
South Africa set up a series decider with a stunning comeback win over Australia by an innings and 31 runs on the last day Thursday of the second cricket test at St. George's Park.
India Suffer Big Blow As Renuka Singh Ruled Out Of Zimbabwe ODI Series
India has been hit by a blow as pacer Renuka Singh Thakur has been ruled out of the upcoming three-match ODI series against Zimbabwe as she continues to build the bowling workload required for the 50-over format at the BCCI Centre of Excellence.
Women in Blue start firm favourites as focus shifts to ODIs
Jintimani replaces injured pacer Renuka; Zimbabwe will hope to pose a tough question or two to the World champion
'If we bat first, we will score at least 300'
India vice-captain Deepti Sharma expressed her readiness to support skipper Smriti Mandhana in her new role, ahead of the three-match ODI series against Zimbabwe starting Friday. Sharma also discussed the team's strategy to aim for high scores on a batting-friendly pitch and cautioned against underestimating the Zimbabwean side.
Joe Root Scripts History, Becomes First England Batter To Reach 8,000 ODI Runs
England star batter Joe Root etched his name in the history books on Thursday, becoming the first England batter to breach the 8,000-run mark in One-Day Internationals (ODIs).
Ranji Trophy: Mumbai retains the squad for match against Haryana
RSFI President Tulsi Ram Aggarwal Hails India's Stellar Show At World Skate Games 2026
Tulsi Ram Aggarwal: Roller Skating Federation of India (RSFI) president Tulsi Ram Aggarwal on Thursday hailed India's stellar performance at the World Skate Games 2026, where the contingent bagged seven medals in Paraguay's capital, Asuncion. Speaking at the celebration ceremony after welcoming the athletes, Tulsi Ram heaped praise on the skaters' performance, with the likes of Anandkumar Velkumar and Anirudhan Vinod, among others, winning medals. This time, we have won seven medals at the World Skate Games in Paraguay. Two gold medals, three silver and two bronze medals. Paraguay is a far and hard place to be at. It is hard to take the skaters there, but we never hesitated and took the team to the tournament, Tusli Ram said. This tournament began on October 2. Nearly 10,000 athletes from 90 countries participated in it. Italy, Colombia, Chinese Taipei, Spain, France, United States, Iran, Chile, Germany, Venezuela, Portugal, Czechoslovakia, South Korea, Guatemala, Paraguay, and so on were the teams that participated in the event. Our children have gained a lot of experience and exposure from there by meeting different people, he added. The RSFI president also stated that Colombia are a pretty strong team in skating and that the sport is just like a religion there, just like cricket is in India. Just as cricket is considered almost like a religion in our country, skating holds that same status in Colombia, which is why Colombia is unbeatable in speed skating. However, it is a matter of great pride that one of our skaters, Anirudhan Vinod from Kerala, won a gold medal in the Junior Men's Road 1-Lap. At the same time, from a small union territory or region called Puducherry, a skater named Lohnath Arun Prasath won a silver medal. In the very same competition, two of our competitors achieved podium finishes with gold and silver. The RSFI president also stated that Colombia are a pretty strong team in skating and that the sport is just like a religion there, just like cricket is in India. Just as cricket is considered almost like a religion in our country, skating holds that same status in Colombia, which is why Colombia is unbeatable in speed skating. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Manvanth Kumars emergence is breath of fresh air for Karnataka cricket
2nd Test: South Africa Blow Australia Away to Level Series
South Africa crushed Australia by an innings and 31 runs in Gqeberha to level the series 1-1, with Bavuma's 179 and Rabada's four wickets proving decisive.
South Africa Crush Australia By An Innings And 31 Runs To Level Test Series
South Africa wrapped up a brilliant innings-and-31-run win over Australia in the second Test at St George's Park on Thursday, levelling the three-match series. Despite another session being washed out on the fifth day of a rain-hit game, the Proteas took the remaining six second-innings wickets needed to complete victory. South Africa, who suffered a heavy defeat in the opening game in Durban last week, recovered from 110-6 in the first innings to post 425-9 declared, thanks largely to captain Temba Bavuma's career-best 179. Marco Jansen took five wickets as the Aussies were then skittled for 99 and forced to follow on for the first time since 2019. Travis Head's 121 and a 166-ball 40 from nightwatchman Scott Boland held up the South African charge on the final day, as did persistent morning rain, but Wiaan Mulder removed both and the tourists were bowled out for 295. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Jansen took the final wicket by dismissing Josh Hazlewood, as reigning world Test champions South Africa set up a series decider next week in Cape Town.
Shreyas Iyer Praises Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma Show After India's Record Chase
India captain Shreyas Iyer hailed his opening pair of Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson for setting up the record chase of 226 against New Zealand in the T20I series opener and lauded Naman Dhir's composure in applying finishing touches.
1st T20I: Got To Give Credit Where It's Due, Says Glenn Phillips After India's Record Chase
On New Zealand: New Zealand batting all-rounder Glenn Phillips said credit has to be given where it was due, after India chased down 226 to record their highest successful T20I chase and win the series opener by four wickets here at the Hagley Oval. Phillips hit an unbeaten 40-ball 82 and lifted New Zealand to 225/4, but India got home with two balls to spare, and he was gracious in his assessment of the visitors' herculean batting effort. You've also got to give credit to the chasing side for chasing 226. It's always a good chase and for them as well, on slightly bigger boundaries, it's something slightly different to what they're used to. You've got to give credit where credit's due sometimes, Phillips said in the post-match press conference. He further said bowling to India's batters left little margin for error and demanded every plan in the book. Obviously they're fantastic. You've got to have a plan C, D, E, F, G, H. You've got to have every plan under the sun. With guys like that, you've got such small room for error. The pitches are fantastic as well. Also, credit to them, the bounce is probably a little more than they're used to, and they adjusted really well today. I guess we've got all our plans on the drawing board, but at the end of the day you've got to execute them. Phillips did not believe the toss gave the chasing side a decisive edge at the venue, and felt New Zealand could have made it tougher for India with a tighter effort with the ball in the middle overs. I think here with big boundaries, the ball does sometimes tend to nibble under light second innings as well. I think it does even out. Obviously, a wet ball becomes tough to bowl with and becomes a little bit more advantageous with the bat at the end of the innings. I think it's a little bit of a toss-up here and there. I wouldn't say compared to some grounds around the world where there's a specific huge advantage for batting second, I'd say. Obviously, chasing down 220 makes it look like you want to bat second every time, but I think we maybe take a couple more wickets in the middle or string a few more dots together and we put them under pressure, and they don't chase it, then it obviously looks slightly different as well. With heavy dew settling on the Hagley Oval outfield during the late-evening game, Phillips said it was something New Zealand had to deal with at this time of the year. It's just going to be part and parcel of it this time of year. It gets quite cold quite fast. It's fabulous, obviously, to be able to have such a big crowd here for that late game, which is fantastic. But it is just part and parcel of what we have in New Zealand this time of the year. I'm pretty sure the grounds try to spray repellent of some sort on there, but there's only so much I suppose you can do. I guess for the guys to go out there, we've just got to try and find a way. Whether it's with the bat or the ball, it's just trying to adapt as much as we can, especially to that dew factor. On New Zealand's batting, Phillips lauded openers Finn Allen and Tim Seifert, whom he called the 'Bash brothers', and the partnerships that followed, while admitting the side would want to hold on to more catches. Obviously the way the Bash brothers go up at the top of the order is fantastic. They always get us off to a flyer. I think the way that we strung partnerships together throughout the innings is really good. Obviously, you can halt the momentum of the innings quite a lot if we lose a lot of quick wickets. That's probably something we want to take forward. A little bit of a tough start, and probably we would like to take a few more catches. The way that the boys still fought, still held on in the middle, still took wickets. That's the fight that we're after, especially when dew comes into play. It does get tough. There's obviously no excuses in professional sport. We just have to go out there and give it our best. Obviously, India did better than us today. Phillips ended New Zealand's innings with a switch-hit four off Bhuvneshwar Kumar, and revealed the shot was the result of hours of practice batting left-handed. I've definitely been practicing a lot, especially the last year or so. I guess since probably the Super Smash last year where there were three left-hand bowlers and one-handed, and I thought, You know what, this is probably something worth experimenting with. So I have been training, even facing sidearm sticks in the nets. The guys at the IPL last year probably got sick of me spending an hour batting and then 45 minutes batting left-handed as well. So I suppose at some stage an opportunity like that comes about and Bhuvi wasn't missing as well, which is the way Bhuvi does things anyway. So the last ball, why not give it a go? The hope was more to actually just get him to miss his line in length and hope that I was going to be good enough to hit it, and today I guess I was. Phillips also backed young Bevon Jacobs, who hit his first ball for six on his way to a 16-ball 31 during their 73-run stand for the fourth wicket. He has the confidence to go out there and play the ball as he sees it. Obviously, he's an incredibly strong fellow, and he hits it a huge, huge long way. But I think that's a testament to the kind of character that we've built on this side, the culture where a guy who's young, who hasn't played too many games, can come in and feel like he can play his natural game. Phillips also backed young Bevon Jacobs, who hit his first ball for six on his way to a 16-ball 31 during their 73-run stand for the fourth wicket. He has the confidence to go out there and play the ball as he sees it. Obviously, he's an incredibly strong fellow, and he hits it a huge, huge long way. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Cricket-South Africa level series with win over Australia in second test
South Africa bowled out
Renuka Ruled Out Of ODIs Against Zimbabwe; Jintimani Named As Her Replacement
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia: India pacer Renuka Singh Thakur has been ruled out of the upcoming three-match ODI series against Zimbabwe, with the selectors drafting in seam-bowling all-rounder Jintimani Kalita as her replacement. Renuka was a part of India's squad that won the ODI World Cup last year at home. But Renuka didnt get to play in Indias Asia Cup triumph in Dubai and the Asian Games gold medal win in Japan, despite being a part of the squad. The BCCI said Renuka, who last played an ODI game against Australia in Hobart earlier this year, was still working on building up the bowling volume of sending down ten overs, which is needed for playing the 50-over format, at its Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru, and would not be available for the series. She is still building up the bowling volume required for the 50-over format at the BCCI Centre of Excellence. Jintimani, who was part of the just-concluded T20I series in Raipur, has travelled with the team to Baroda, where the ODI series will be played from tomorrow, said BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia in a statement on Thursday. Jintimani, who was retained by Gujarat Giants ahead of the 2027 Womens Premier League (WPL), will join the Indian ODI fast bowling group featuring Kranti Gaud, Nandni Sharma and Sayali Satghare. The spin department wears a strong look, with vice-captain Deepti Sharma, Sree Charani and Vaishnavi Sharma among the options available to the Indian team management. The series will also mark the first ODI series India will play since Smriti Mandhanas appointment as the sides new all-format skipper. Zimbabwe will face a formidable challenge against the reigning ODI world champions at the BCA Stadium in Vadodara. All three matches will begin at 2 pm IST, with the first ODI on Friday, the second match on Sunday and the final game on Wednesday. The spin department wears a strong look, with vice-captain Deepti Sharma, Sree Charani and Vaishnavi Sharma among the options available to the Indian team management. The series will also mark the first ODI series India will play since Smriti Mandhanas appointment as the sides new all-format skipper. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Glenn Phillips Admits What Went Wrong As India Pull Off 226-Run Chase
New Zealand all-rounder Glenn Phillips credited India for their successful chase of 226 in the first T20I but said his side needed to take more wickets in the middle overs and improve its fielding after suffering a four-wicket defeat on Thursday.
South Africa beat Australia by innings and 31 runs: second men
South Africa complete innings victory over Australia
South Africa wrapped up a brilliant innings-and-31-run win over Australia in the second Test at St George's Park on Thursday, levelling the three-match series.
Drone measurements reveal rapid early growth in eastern Australian humpback whales
Eastern Australian humpback whales reach nearly their full adult size quickly, a new Griffith University
Uncapped Kalita Replaces Renuka in India women's ODI Squad
Indian pacer Renuka Singh Thakur has been ruled out of the upcoming three-match women's ODI series against Zimbabwe due to fitness concerns, with uncapped Jintimani Kalita named as her replacement. Renuka is currently focusing on building bowling volume at the BCCI Centre of Excellence.
South Africa complete famous win over Australia
South Africa break Australia's resistance in the final session a complete a famous victory in the second Test and set up a series decider in Cape Town.
We Weren't At Our Best: Mitchell Santner's Brutal Assessment After India's Run Chase
New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner admitted that his bowlers' wayward start with the new ball, including conceding plenty of extras, proved costly as India chased down 226 to win the first T20I by four wickets at Hagley Oval on Thursday.
During his visit to Sydney and Melbourne, the Minister will participate in various programmes and hold extensive discussions with government representatives, mining companies, research institutions and industry leaders from Australia and other countries.
1st T20I: Samson, Dhir Help India Pull Off Record Chase Of 226, Beat New Zealand By Four Wickets
New Zealand: Sanju Samson hammered a 33-ball 67 before Naman Dhir finished the job with an unbeaten 42 off just 15 balls India pulled off their highest successful run chase in T20Is by hunting down 226 and beat New Zealand by four wickets in front of a sell-out crowd at the Hagley Oval on Thursday. Earlier, Glenn Phillips' 40-ball 82 not out lifted New Zealand to 225/4. But the superlative efforts of Samson and Dhir, along with dew coming into the picture, ensured India completed the chase in 19.4 overs to go 1-0 up in the five-match series. The second game of the series will be played in Christchurch on Saturday. Matt Henry beat Samson first ball, but Abhishek Sharma launched the last delivery of the over for six, his record seventh first-ball six in the format. Samson struck back-to-back fours off Adam Milne before Lockie Ferguson's erratic first over, littered with wides, fetched India 22 runs. Milne fared worse next, as Abhishek collected two edged fours and two sixes in a 26-run over. Samson's six off Henry sailing over mid-on - was India's 350th maximum in T20Is this year, the most by any team in a calendar year. More boundaries came for India and Samson reached his fifty off 23 balls with a six and a four off Michael Bracewell, who removed Abhishek (29 off 12 balls) by getting him to slice to short third man in the same over as India ended the powerplay on 94/1. Santner then turned the game by castling Samson off an under-edge in the ninth over, as the wicketkeeper hit eight fours and four sixes in his top-class knock. Tilak Varma, promoted to number three, laboured to 6 off 11 balls before holing out off Bracewell, and Ishan Kishan (1) fell to Santner as India slipped to 122/4. Axar Patel ended a 22-ball boundary drought by hitting Santner in the gap between deep mid-wicket and deep square leg. Along with captain Iyer, Axar took 20 runs off Henry's third over. But Ferguson had Axar (24 off 14 balls) caught at short mid-wicket, while Finn Allen dropped Iyer in the same over. With 48 needed off 24 balls, Santner returned after a nasty fall and was taken for 19 runs, as Dhir hit a six and four. Ferguson then put down Dhir at short third man as the batter looted two more fours off Smith. Milne had Iyer caught by Santner for a 28-ball 42 at the start of the 19th over, but Dhir kept India on course. Needing eight from the last over, with New Zealand also penalised for a slow over-rate, Dhir drove a full toss from Henry for four and sealed the win by top-edging a short ball over the keeper for six. While India rejoiced over acing a record chase, New Zealand, despite their moments in the field, will rue their inability to stitch tight overs. Being wayward in the powerplay and conceding lots of extras early on left them playing catch-up for the rest of the innings. Needing eight from the last over, with New Zealand also penalised for a slow over-rate, Dhir drove a full toss from Henry for four and sealed the win by top-edging a short ball over the keeper for six. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Defending champions India begin new Championship cycle in Vadodara
India are the only team yet to feature in the 2025-29 Women's Championship cycle
Abhishek Sharma breaks Rohit Sharma's world record in first T20I against New Zealand in Christchurch
India beat New Zealand by four wickets in the first of the five-match T20I series against New Zealand. They were asked to chase 226 runs in the middle, which needed a strong start from openers...
Phillips Rues Middle-Over Lapses as India Hunt Down 226
New Zealand all-rounder Glenn Phillips acknowledged India's successful chase of 226 in the first T20I, attributing their win to strong execution and adaptation. Phillips highlighted areas for improvement for his team, specifically the need to take more wickets in the middle overs and enhance fielding performance, despite defending their overall effort.
Indonesia, Australia step up fight against online scam networks
1st T20I: Conceding Extras At The Start Hurt Us, Says Santner After NZs Four-wicket Loss
Mitchell Santner: New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner admitted that his bowlers' wayward start with the new ball, including conceding extras aplenty, proved costly as India chased down 226 to win the first T20I by four wickets here at the Hagley Oval on Thursday. India raced to 94/1 in the powerplay, and helped along by a string of wides from the New Zealand pacers. Although the hosts fought back through the middle overs, Naman Dhir's unbeaten 42 off 15 balls sealed the chase with two balls to spare, as New Zealand conceded 17 extras in all. They put us under pressure. We knew they were going to do that, and another big powerplay from them. We weren't probably at our best. We can sharpen up a few things, but I think we know what the ball does, so you can slow them down. I think in the middle we did well to kind of squeeze them and then again it was a tight game. So I think both teams could probably look at a few things here and there; I think it could have gone either way, said Santner in the post-match presentation ceremony. Asked where New Zealand could improve, Santner pointed to the extras and a few missed chances in the field. I think the extras at the start maybe, and obviously I think in the field we were pretty good. It's not an easy ground to catch here. A couple more chances, closing overs at times, but I think the powerplay is always going to be a challenge. I guess we have to find a way of trying to slow them down, but that might be an 80-run powerplay, not a 100. The two teams will meet again at the same venue in the second T20I on Saturday. Santner, who landed awkwardly on his head while attempting a catch in the 13th over and briefly left the field, said he was fine. A bit of a whiplash there, but yeah, it's okay. At the same time, Santner was pleased with how his batters had gone about their job after being sent in and praised the efforts of Glenn Phillips, who made an unbeaten 40-ball 82, along with Bevon Jacobs, who struck a 16-ball 31. The two teams will meet again at the same venue in the second T20I on Saturday. Santner, who landed awkwardly on his head while attempting a catch in the 13th over and briefly left the field, said he was fine. A bit of a whiplash there, but yeah, it's okay. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
'We Kill the Game...': Samson Explains India's Powerplay Aggression
India opener Sanju Samson discussed the team's strategy of killing games in the powerplay after his explosive 67-run knock led India to a record-breaking T20I chase against New Zealand. He highlighted the team's consistent aggressive approach, especially after their 2024 T20 World Cup victory.
Sitar meets didgeridoo: A cultural confluence between India and Australia
Purana Qila became the stage for a musical dialogue between William Barton and Shubhendra Rao.
India vs New Zealand T20Is Get A New Bizarre Streaming Platform
Cricket fans in New Zealand now have a new way to watch India vs New Zealand T20 as the opening six overs of the series is set to be streamed live on TikTok.
The alleged threats have left the Indian-Australian family so frightened that it is considering ending its lease and moving back to India.
Why Iyer believes Dhir gives India 'a lot of options'
Skipper Shreyas Iyer lauded all-rounder Naman Dhir for his crucial role in India's record-breaking 226-run chase against New Zealand in the first T20I. Iyer highlighted Dhir's versatility and calm demeanour under pressure. Sanju Samson's explosive start and the team's adaptation to changing pitch conditions were also key factors in India's highest-ever T20 chase.
Harry Brook double-ton smashes records to post massive target
England captain blasts fastest double century in 55-year history of ODIs, off just 114 balls
1st T20I: Openers Set It Up, Dhir's Calm Finish Magnificent, Says Iyer After India's Record Chase
Naman Dhir: India captain Shreyas Iyer hailed his opening pair of Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson for setting up the record chase of 226 against New Zealand in the T20I series opener and lauded Naman Dhir's composure in applying finishing touches. In front of a sell-out crowd at the Hagley Oval, India pulled off their highest successful T20I chase to beat New Zealand by four wickets and take a 1-0 lead in the series. India were given a rollicking start by a 93-run opening stand between Samson (67 off 33 balls) and Abhishek (29 off 12 balls). After a mid-innings wobble, Dhir finished unbeaten on 42 off 15 balls and sealed the win with a six off the penultimate ball of the chase. They (Abhishek and Sanju) are absolutely experienced enough. You don't have to tell them how to go about their business. They know exactly what they're doing, and once they get going, it's just about the momentum they carry forward, and today was just an example of that. So obviously it doesn't happen every time, but once they click, you see that they set a game for us, and the rest of us, we just come and steady the ship and see to it that we finish off the game, Iyer said at the post-match presentation ceremony. He was also full of praise for Dhir, whose stocks are rising fast in international cricket, and said his ability to chip in with some off-spin bowling added to his value at number seven. Absolutely. He gives us a lot of options, especially for lefty batsmen, or even the right-handers batting, especially on this ground, coming in and bowling those two-three crucial overs actually can change the momentum. And I personally feel that the calm and composed nature that he showed today was simply magnificent to see him bat. The win came barely days after India wrapped up their home series against the West Indies, and Iyer felt the team could now move on from the long journey. Fantastic. Probably we've got to forget about the jet lag now, he said. The Indian bowlers had a tough outing as New Zealand piled up 225/4, with none of them conceding less than 10 runs an over. Iyer admitted they had pitched it up too often early on before the dew made life harder for bowlers. So when we started bowling, I thought it was playing a bit slow. The ball was holding a bit, and we bowled a little ahead compared to the hard lengths we should have been hitting. But as soon as the game progressed, we saw the dew coming in, and the wicket was skidding flatter as the ball was getting through and coming onto the bat pretty well. The Indian bowlers had a tough outing as New Zealand piled up 225/4, with none of them conceding less than 10 runs an over. Iyer admitted they had pitched it up too often early on before the dew made life harder for bowlers. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Sanju Samson Reveals Secret Behind India's Historic Chase vs New Zealand In 1st T20I
Sanju Samson's 33-ball 67, studded with eight fours and four sixes, set up India's four-wicket win in the five-match T20I series opener.
1st T20I: We Just Watch The Ball And Hit Hard, Says Samson After India's Record Chase
Sanju Samson: Wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson said there was no grand plan behind his blistering opening stands with Abhishek Sharma, adding that the opening pair simply watch the ball and hit hard, after the side chased down 226 against New Zealand to record their highest successful run chase in T20Is. Samson's 33-ball 67, studded with eight fours and four sixes, set up India's four-wicket win in the five-match T20I series opener. He and Abhishek (29 off 12) raced to 93 runs as an opening pair. After the duo fell, captain Shreyas Iyers 42 and Naman Dhirs unbeaten 42 helped India reach home with two balls to spare. We do have a lot of conversations happening in the middle, but nothing makes sense actually. We just watch the ball and hit hard. It has been working very well for us and I like batting with him at the top, Samson said at the post-match presentation ceremony, where he got the Player of the Match award. He also revealed that once India got off to a flier in the chase, he and Abhishek felt they could put the game away early. The ball was swinging around a lot, I think in the second half, a bit too much actually. But off the surface it was coming on very nicely. So I think me and Abhi just felt like keeping the shape and having a very positive intent in the powerplay. Once we got off to a flying start, we felt the match could be finished in the first half as well. Six overs, 90-odd runs - that was a great start today. So I think we just wanted to go all out. Samson's dismissal in the ninth over sparked a slide and he felt the win in front of a sell-out crowd at the Hagley Oval was a collective effort. It feels really good. I think, yes, we are just in the moment where the match has been won. Whatever contribution you make, I think it feels good to end up on the winning side. So it's a really great contribution from all of us in the team. So it was completely a team game today. So really happy that we started off nicely for the series, he added. Samson said that while keeping wickets gave him an early read of the surface, conditions changed significantly by the time India came out to bat. Absolutely, you definitely think about your batting while you are keeping wickets. But I think today I summed up my way to play the game while keeping. Whatever contribution you make, I think it feels good to end up on the winning side. So it's a really great contribution from all of us in the team. So it was completely a team game today. So really happy that we started off nicely for the series, he added. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Sanju Samson Sets Up India's Record Chase In First T20I Against New Zealand
Sanju Samson maintained his remarkable consistency this calendar year with a sublime 67 off 33 balls as India pulled off their highest chase in T20 cricket, overcoming a mid-innings stumble for a four-wicket win in the series-opener against New Zealand in Christchurch on Thursday.
Arafat Minhas beats Lance Klusener's record of fewest games taken to score an ODI 50 and take a five-wicket haul in the same match. The post Is this Pakistans most promising limited-overs all-rounder since the early days of Shahid Afridi? appeared first on Cricket365 .
Brook Breaks Gill's Record With Fastest ODI Double Ton
Harry Brook, the England captain, made history in an ODI clash in Rawalpindi by scoring a breathtaking 202 runs off just 116 balls.
Litton Das has put himself among the best wicketkeeper-batters of the modern era by doing this. The post The greatest glovemen a century, half-ton and seven or more dismissals in the same Test appeared first on Cricket365 .
How India pulled off a record chase against New Zealand
India defeated New Zealand by four wickets in the first T20 of a five-match series, successfully chasing a target of 226 runs. Openers Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma provided a strong start, while Shreyas Iyer and Naman Dhir ensured India completed their highest-ever successful T20 run chase despite a mid-innings wobble. Glenn Phillips' unbeaten 82 had propelled New Zealand to a formidable total.
Nithya Sre Sumathy Sivan: Indias Tokyo 2020 Paralympics gold medallist Krishna Nagar has called for greater recognition and corporate investment in para-badminton, arguing that increased visibility and sponsorship could significantly expand opportunities for athletes in the sport. Speaking after winning silver in mens doubles SH6 with Sivarajan Solaimalai and bronze in mixed doubles SH6 with Nithya Sre Sumathy Sivan at the 2026 Asian Para Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, Nagar acknowledged the support extended by the government and sporting authorities but stressed that para-sport needs greater commercial attention to match its competitive achievements. The 2024 world champion also reflected on the tactical errors that cost him crucial points, the transition to a 15-point format and his determination to return to the top of the podium at the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympics. Nagar believes the next phase of growth for Indian para-badminton will depend not only on performances at international competitions but also on the willingness of sponsors and major companies to invest in the sport. While acknowledging the support provided by the central government, the Sports Authority of India and existing sporting programmes, he said greater commercial backing could help more para-athletes access opportunities to develop their careers. The central government supports us a lot. The Prime Minister always supports us. All the able-bodied players support us, too. They are coming up with good schemes for us, such as TOPS and Podium. The central government is always backing us to achieve more and is doing a lot for the players. So, we have the full support of the central government, Nagar told IANS in an exclusive interaction. However, Nagar believes that government assistance must be accompanied by stronger public engagement and greater interest from corporate sponsors. Drawing a comparison with cricket, he said para-sport could expand its reach considerably if it received similar levels of attention and investment. Everything is very positive for both para and able-bodied sports, from the central government to the sports authority and the funders. There is a positive response from everyone. Literally. But we have this one thing: if para sports start getting the same amount of recognition and attention as cricket, the scope for para sports will be very high. They have already grown a lot since 2021 and 2024. They should grow even more after the Asian Games. But I think the competition will be very tough by 2028. If you look at it, the biggest thing for any para athlete is money. If para athletes grow even more, it will be much better. Sponsors will be good. There are many big companies in India. If para sports are endorsed, itll be great for our sport, because there are many players in para sports, he added. For Nagar, the argument for greater investment is rooted in the results Indian para-athletes have already produced on the international stage. He believes commercial support could help strengthen the sports ecosystem and create better opportunities for athletes beyond the established names. For example, I am in the para-athletes' category. Whatever training I do, I do it with an able-bodied player. I train and compete with them, so it is better for me. I want all the endorsers to be in para sports, because para sports are getting good results. If you look at both badminton and para badminton, Pramod bhaiya (Bhagat) and I are the only people to win gold at the Olympic level. But there is no recognition for para badminton yet. You will see javelin has done very well. But para badminton has not done as well as it should have. Para badminton results come in 7-10 days. In 7-10 days, everything has to be done on the same page. I hope I can repeat everything in 2028. I know I will and get on top of the podium, he stated. Nagars call for greater recognition comes as he begins looking towards the next Paralympic cycle. Having won gold at the Tokyo Paralympics and the world title in 2024, the Indian shuttler is aiming to maintain his fitness and sharpen his game ahead of the qualification period for Los Angeles 2028, which is scheduled to begin in 2027. I am a Tokyo Paralympics gold medallist, a 2024 world champion and an Asian Games silver medallist. But it all depends on how much I have to train to maintain my fitness. I have to try as much as I can to keep my fitness at its best, Nagar said. His campaign at the Asian Para Games brought two medals in doubles, but Nagar admitted that the results also exposed areas that require attention. In the mens doubles SH6 final, he and Sivarajan struggled to sustain their intended strategy against China, with coordination issues allowing their opponents to take control of crucial exchanges. As you can see, in doubles, there were some patches where we couldnt coordinate well with each other, and the Chinese took advantage of this. We were trying to tire them out in the rally and play long rallies, but they didnt let it continue. We kept trying, thinking that the longer the rally, the better it would be for us. We waited for a long timein the sense that we tried to play with a lot of patiencebut it wasnt happening, he said. Nagar said the partnership would need more time together on court to improve its consistency, with the upcoming qualification cycle and the 2028 World Championships forming important milestones in their preparations. But its okay. The qualification year for LA will start in 2027, so we will try to do our best. We will train together as much as we can because before that, we have a world championship in 2028. Our main focus will be to do our best, Nagar expressed. Another significant adjustment on Nagars agenda is the transition to 15-point games. The Indian shuttler believes the shorter format could suit his aggressive playing style, although it will require him to be more decisive from the opening points. As of now, regarding the 15-point game, in the beginning, we would keep the first three or four points a little loose and play according to the rally. But we wont have to do that now. Now, we have to focus on the first points of the game. We will have to play as quickly as we can, because it is a 15-point game. There is no room for mercy. If you dont leave a single point, things can get out of your hands at any time. And in my category, maam, anyone can beat anyone. I mean, any player among the top eight or ten can defeat anyone, the 27-year-old said. Nagar pointed to the changing distribution of major titles in the SH6 category as evidence of the competitive depth at the top level. With different players emerging as champions across major tournaments, he believes sustained improvement will be essential to remaining among the leading contenders. In my category, I was the champion in 2021. In 2024, it was France, and I was the world champion in 2024. In 2023, at the Asian Championships, I won silver in singles and bronze in doubles. In 2024, in Paris, the French player became the champion. After that, at the World Championships, a player from the USA became world champion in February 2026. And this time, I think the Asian teams medalist will change as well. In my category, there is still no consistency. This will go on. But I think I am the only one who can win all the tournaments. However, I have to work harder and harder now. I have to prepare myself as much as I can for the 15-point format, and that is better, he mentioned. Nagar also identified his performance in the closing stages of matches as an area requiring improvement. Recalling his singles match against China, he said a substantial lead in the deciding game slipped away because of errors at crucial moments. My main event is singles, and Im good at it. I train for it, but Im a little disappointed that I didnt compete in singles. I was fully fit. Everyone was good. My endurance, agility, game and power were all good. But towards the end, I had a few technical issues. You must have seen my singles match against China. I was leading 1611 in the third set. After that, I started having some glitches. I was then leading 1917, but after that, I started making mistakes. Now I think Ill have to work a little more on all these things in the last four or five points. But as youll see, from the next tournament, all the games will be 15 points. So I think that will be beneficial for me because I play fast, powerful games. It will be very beneficial for me to play to 15 points, so Ill try to give my best. But Ill try not to repeat these mistakes. I lost my quarter-finals and semi-finals by making these mistakes, so Ill try not to repeat them. Correct. I was very confident about the Asian Gamesthat I would win them and wouldnt make a single mistake, he said. His mixed doubles campaign with Nithya Sre Sumathy Sivan offered a similar lesson. The Indian pair lost their semifinal against Indonesias Rina Marlina and Subhan after failing to convert opportunities to finish rallies, allowing their opponents to build momentum. When we had a chance to finish the shuttle, two or three times, the shuttle didnt finish. I defended the shuttle. That was our point. But they defended. From there, their mindset levelled up very confidently. After that, they changed the game a little bit. Then I tried to cover a little bit, but I made a small mistake. So they took advantage of that. For Nagar, improving his technical execution and maintaining a positive approach under pressure will be essential as he prepares for the next phase of international competition. The technical improvement is simply this: the more positively you play the game and the more positively you keep the subtlety within your court, the better. You must play your best and give your all for every point. For Nagar, improving his technical execution and maintaining a positive approach under pressure will be essential as he prepares for the next phase of international competition. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Challenging, but a lot of fun: Aussie umpire Treloar embraces Ranji stint
He will officiate in one more Ranji game, between Mumbai and Haryana next week, before returning home
Watch: Arshdeep Singh Uses Football Skills To Make Genius Run-Out vs New Zealand. Moment Is Viral
India pacer Arshdeep Singh showed off his football skills to brilliantly run out Bevon Jacobs in the first T20I against New Zealand.
Harry Brook smashes fastest double century in ODI cricket history, breaks Shubman Gill's record
Harry Brook stole the show against Sri Lanka in the ODI tri-series at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. The England captain went berserk scoring a 114-ball double century, breaking Shubman Gills record in the process for...
1st T20I: Samson, Dhir Star As India Ace Record Chase Of 226, Beat New Zealand By Four Wickets (ld)
Nitish Kumar Reddy: India carried their rich run-scoring vein from the West Indies series into New Zealand, as Sanju Samson's 33-ball 67 and Naman Dhir's late assault of an unbeaten 42 off just 15 balls powered them to hunt down 226, their highest-ever chase in T20Is, and beat New Zealand by four wickets in front of a sell-out crowd at the Hagley Oval on Thursday. Earlier, on a fresh pitch, Glenn Phillips smashed a 40-ball 82 not out and lifted New Zealand to an imposing 225/4. But the superlative efforts of Samson and Dhir, along with dew coming into the picture, ensured India completed the chase with two balls to spare in a run-fest that produced 455 runs in front of a sell-out crowd. While India rejoiced over acing a record chase, New Zealand, despite their moments in the field, will rue their inability to stitch tight overs and being erratic in fielding. Being wayward in the powerplay, and conceding 17 extras left them playing catch-up for the rest of the innings. The second game of the series will be played at the same venue on Saturday. Indias chase began with Matt Henry beating Samson on the first ball, but Abhishek Sharma launched the last delivery of the over for six, his record-seventh first-ball six in the format. Samson struck back-to-back fours off Adam Milne before Lockie Ferguson's erratic first over, littered with wides, fetched India 22 runs. Milne fared worse next, as Abhishek collected two edged fours and two sixes in a 26-run over. Samson's six off Henry sailing over mid-on was India's 350th maximum in T20Is this year, the most by any team in a calendar year. More boundaries came for India, and Samson reached his fifty off 23 balls with a six and a four off Michael Bracewell, who removed Abhishek (29 off 12 balls) by getting him to slice to short third man in the same over as India ended the powerplay on 94/1. Santner then turned the game by castling Samson off an under-edge in the ninth over, as the wicketkeeper hit eight fours and four sixes in his top-class knock. Tilak Varma, promoted to number three, laboured to 6 off 11 balls before holing out off Bracewell, and Ishan Kishan (1) fell to Santner as India slipped to 122/4. Axar Patel ended a 22-ball boundary drought by hitting Santner in the gap between deep mid-wicket and deep square leg. Along with captain Iyer, Axar took 20 runs off Henry's third over. But Ferguson had Axar (24 off 14 balls) caught at short mid-wicket, while Finn Allen dropped Iyer in the same over. With 48 runs needed off 24 balls, Santner returned after a nasty fall and was taken for 19 runs, as Dhir hit a six and four. Ferguson then put down Dhir at short third man as the batter looted two more fours off Smith. Milne had Iyer caught by Santner for a 28-ball 42 at the start of the 19th over, but Dhir kept India on course. Needing eight from the last over, with New Zealand also penalised for a slow over-rate, Dhir drove a full toss from Henry for four and sealed the win by top-edging a short ball over the keeper for six and leave the Indian dressing room thoroughly delighted. Previously, after Finn Allen made 45, Daryl Mitchell and Bevon Jacobs played handy cameos of 28 and 31, respectively. But Phillips was the standout batter for the Black Caps as he ensured fours and sixes were hit all around the Hagley Oval. Apart from the pristine timing and placement of shots, Phillips astute running between the wickets stood out as well. New Zealand made 65 runs in the powerplay before amassing 93 runs in the middle overs and 67 runs in the last five overs. None of the Indian bowlers went for less than 10 runs an over. Axar Patel (1-51) was the most expensive, while Bhuvneshwar Kumar (0-49), Arshdeep Singh (1-45), Mayank Yadav (1-40) and Nitish Kumar Reddy (0-40) were also punished. The fielding was sloppy too, with a dropped catch and fumbles in the deep. After India elected to bowl first, a returning Bhuvneshwar swung early and beat Tim Seifert with his very first delivery in a tidy opening over. But the openers soon broke free. Bhuvneshwar overstepped in the third over, and Seifert cashed in on the free hit before launching a six onto the roof, as 17 runs came off it. Arshdeep, playing his 100th T20I, fared no better next, with Allen hitting three fours in a row and Seifert adding another as 17 more were taken. Mayank struck in his first over when Seifert (24 off 17 balls) edged one behind to Samson. Allen and Mitchell then launched Axar for two sixes in the final over of the powerplay, with the latter lofting over long-on. But Axar had the last word against Allen, who mistimed a loft to long-off and fell for 45 off 24 balls. Mitchell, dropped by Abhishek at long-on off Mayank when on 16, punished the lapse with successive boundaries before Arshdeep had him caught at short third man for 28 and end his 42-run stand with Phillips. Jacobs announced himself with a six off his first ball, while Phillips took three fours off Axar in the 14th over, one of them after a misfield by substitute fielder Prince Yadav. The 16th over brought more drama as Bhuvneshwar was struck on the wrist and Jacobs holed out off a free-hit, which did not count. A marauding Phillips then raced to his 13th T20I fifty with a six off Mayank in an 18-run over. Arshdeep, though, kicked the ball onto the stumps to run out Jacobs for a 16-ball 31 that included three sixes. Michael Bracewell survived an lbw decision on review as New Zealand crossed 200 in the 19th over. India were penalised for a slow over-rate in the final over, which led to an extra fielder coming into the 30-yard circle and Phillips signed off with a switch-hit four off Bhuvneshwar. It was a total that would have been enough on most nights, but not against an Indian side in a record-chasing mood. A marauding Phillips then raced to his 13th T20I fifty with a six off Mayank in an 18-run over. Arshdeep, though, kicked the ball onto the stumps to run out Jacobs for a 16-ball 31 that included three sixes. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
The Indian men's cricket team scripted history at the Hagley Oval on Thursday, defeating New Zealand by four wickets in the opening T20I of the series.
Abhishek Sharma broke Shafiqullah Shinwaris world record as India register their highest successful chase in T20I cricket history. The feat was achieved in the first over of the chase itself when Abhishek launched a cracking...
Samson, Iyer and Dhir pull off record chase against NZ in T20I series opener
Entertainment galore in Christchurch, with Glenn Phillips' 40-ball 82 going in vain for the hosts
ICC suspends Australian legend, shocking reason revealed
Australia's veteran fast bowler Megan Schutt has been banned for two matches. She will now miss the final T20I against New Zealand.Australian player suspendedAustralian cricket has suffered a setback. Women's fast bowler Megan Shute has been suspended. According to a statement issued by...
Indonesia, Australia renew AU$420-mln PROSPERA economic partnership
