Cricket

Kishan: 'I just had to play till the last over' on a wicket that 'was not at all easy'

Klaasen found the pitch challenging, too, but took the aggressive route to have things go his way

Cummins, Kishan, Klaasen power SRH into playoffs; CSK not out yet

The win for SRH also took Gujarat Titans into the playoffs as CSK finished their home leg with a loss

IPL 2026: Ishan Deserves All The Credit, Says Pat Cummins After SRHs Playoff-clinching Win Over CSK

Chennai Super Kings: Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) captain Pat Cummins credited Ishan Kishan for playing a mature and match-winning innings after SRH defeated Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by five wickets to qualify for the IPL 2026 playoffs at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Monday. Chasing 181 runs, Sunrisers Hyderabad completed the chase in 19 overs with Kishan anchoring the innings brilliantly with 70 runs off 47 balls. Heinrich Klaasen also played a crucial knock of 47 as SRH secured an important win and booked their place in the playoffs alongside the Gujarat Titans. Speaking after the match, Cummins said the conditions at Chepauk were challenging and praised his batters for adjusting well to the surface. Really satisfying. It's a bit different from how we normally play. Very happy. That partnership, it was really tough, we thought you need one or two really good partnerships, Cummins said after the victory. SRH are generally known for their aggressive batting approach, but Cummins admitted the team had to show patience on a pitch where the ball was not coming onto the bat easily. We are not famous for responsible batting. But yeah, when we were bowling, the ball was keeping low and not quite coming on. It was about par. They play here and know the wicket a lot better, he added. After losing Travis Head early in the chase, Kishan and Abhishek Sharma rebuilt the innings before the left-hander stitched another important stand with Klaasen. Kishan rotated the strike smartly and attacked whenever needed to keep SRH in control throughout the chase. Cummins especially praised Kishan for stepping up and guiding the innings under pressure. Winning today was what mattered. You cant give yourselves a better chance than what we have. Ishan deserves all the credit for leading the side for the first half, Cummins said. After losing Travis Head early in the chase, Kishan and Abhishek Sharma rebuilt the innings before the left-hander stitched another important stand with Klaasen. Kishan rotated the strike smartly and attacked whenever needed to keep SRH in control throughout the chase. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Meanwhile, after this win, SRH are placed at third in the points table with 16 points in 13 matches. They will next face defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on May 22 at their home ground, Rajiv Gandhi Stadium in Hyderabad. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Everyone Gave Their Hearts Out, Says Gaikwad, Proud Despite CSK's Defeat To SRH

Chennai Super Kings: Chennai Super Kings captain Ruturaj Gaikwad praised his teams fighting effort despite suffering a five-wicket defeat against Sunrisers Hyderabad in Match 63 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium on Monday. The loss daunted five-time champion CSKs playoff hopes, while Sunrisers Hyderabad booked their place in the IPL 2026 playoffs after successfully chasing down 181 with six balls to spare. Speaking after the match, Gaikwad said CSK remained in the contest for most of the chase and credited his players for showing character despite missing several key players during the season. Good game of cricket. We were in the game until the second-last over. Good T20 pitch. Didnt change over the course of the game. Just missed out on a few. Just cashing in on the opportunity could have been done, Gaikwad said after the match. Batting first, Chennai Super Kings posted 180/7 in 20 overs with Dewald Brevis top-scoring with 44 runs. Sanju Samson provided a strong start with a quick 27, while Kartik Sharma and Shivam Dube also made useful contributions. However, SRH chased down the target comfortably through Ishan Kishans match-winning 70 and Heinrich Klaasens aggressive 47-run knock. Despite the defeat, Gaikwad said he was proud of the effort shown by the squad, especially considering the challenges faced by the team this season. Still, given the team we had and the limited squad, Im still proud and feel we did well. A lot of positives, to be honest, he added. Gaikwad also praised wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson for his performances during the tournament and highlighted the support received from Chennai fans throughout the season. Despite the defeat, Gaikwad said he was proud of the effort shown by the squad, especially considering the challenges faced by the team this season. Still, given the team we had and the limited squad, Im still proud and feel we did well. A lot of positives, to be honest, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score After the loss, CSK are still present at sixth position in the points table with 12 points in 13 matches. They will next face the Gujarat Titans in their last group stage match at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on 21 May. Article Source: IANS

RR need urgent revival against resurgent LSG

Rajasthan Royals desperately need to win both their remaining games to try and clinch the last playoff spot

IPL 2026: Ishan Kishan Shines As SRH Secure Playoff Berth With Five-wicket Win Over CSK

Chennai Super Kings: Wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan played a brilliant knock of 70 while Heinrich Klaasen scored 47 as Sunrisers Hyderabad defeated Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by five wickets and qualified for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 playoffs at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Monday. Chasing a target of 181, SRH completed the chase in 19 overs to register an important victory. With this win, Sunrisers Hyderabad joined Gujarat Titans and Royal Challengers Bengaluru in securing a place in the IPL 2026 playoffs with 16 points from 13 matches. SRH started their chase positively with Abhishek Sharma attacking Mukesh Choudhary early in the innings. However, Chennai Super Kings struck back in the third over when Mukesh dismissed Travis Head with a slower delivery. Head managed just six runs from six balls. After the early wicket, CSK bowlers maintained tight lines and did not allow SRH batters to score freely. Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan took time to settle but kept the scoreboard moving with regular boundaries. SRH reached 45/1 at the end of the Power-play. CSK finally broke the partnership in the eighth over when Akeal Hosein dismissed Abhishek Sharma for 26 runs off 21 balls. His innings included three fours and a six. Following the wicket, Ishan Kishan shifted gears and anchored the innings, while Heinrich Klaasen played aggressively from the other end. Klaasen attacked both Akeal Hosein and Noor Ahmad, hitting boundaries and sixes regularly as SRH reached 75/2 in 10 overs. Klaasen survived a dropped catch and continued his attacking approach before eventually getting dismissed for 47 runs in the 15th over. The South African batter struck six fours and two sixes during his innings. Meanwhile, Kishan completed his half-century in 37 balls and continued to rotate strike smartly along with Nitish Kumar Reddy. The pair kept SRH firmly in control of the chase. Mukesh Choudhary dismissed Nitish Kumar Reddy in the 18th over, but Kishan remained calm and guided the side closer to victory. He scored 70 runs off 47 balls, hitting four boundaries and three sixes. Smaran Ravichandran finished the chase with a boundary as Sunrisers Hyderabad reached the target with six balls to spare and officially sealed their place in the IPL 2026 playoffs. Earlier, Dewald Brevis top-scored with 44 as Chennai Super Kings posted 180/7 in their 20 overs. Coming to bat after winning the toss, CSK made a flying start with Sanju Samson attacking from the very first ball. He smashed Nitish Kumar Reddy for a six and added two boundaries in the opening over. Samson continued his aggressive batting in the next over by hitting Praful Hinge for three consecutive fours as CSK raced ahead during the powerplay. Sunrisers Hyderabad captain Pat Cummins gave his team the first breakthrough by dismissing Samson for a quick 27 off 13 balls. Young batter Urvil Patel kept the momentum going with two sixes off Cummins, but Sakib Husain clean bowled him for 13 runs. After the early wickets, Ruturaj Gaikwad and Kartik Sharma steadied the innings. Kartik looked in excellent touch and played several attacking shots, including two fours and two sixes in his innings of 32 off 19 balls. Cummins once again broke the partnership by dismissing Kartik in the 10th over. Gaikwad struggled to score freely and was eventually dismissed for 15 runs, with Cummins claiming his third wicket and also completing 200 T20 wickets in the process. Shivam Dube and Dewald Brevis then rebuilt the innings with an important partnership. Brevis played aggressively and took charge in the middle overs, while Dube supported him well. Brevis scored 44 off 27 balls, hitting four sixes and two boundaries before being dismissed by Eshan Malinga in the 18th over. Dube also departed soon after for 26. Prashant Veer added some late runs as CSK finished at 180/7. For SRH, Pat Cummins starred with figures of 3/28, while Sakib Husain and Praful Hinge picked up two wickets each. Eshan Malinga claimed one wicket. Shivam Dube and Dewald Brevis then rebuilt the innings with an important partnership. Brevis played aggressively and took charge in the middle overs, while Dube supported him well. Brevis scored 44 off 27 balls, hitting four sixes and two boundaries before being dismissed by Eshan Malinga in the 18th over. Dube also departed soon after for 26. Prashant Veer added some late runs as CSK finished at 180/7. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Chennai Super Kings 180/7 in 20 overs (Dewald Brevis 44, Sanju Samson 27, Shivam Dube 26; Pat Cummins 3-28, Sakib Hussain 2-34) lost to Sunrisers Hyderabad 181/5 in 19 overs (Ishan Kishan 70, Heinrich Klassen 47; Mukesh Choudhary 2-36, Akeal Hosein 1-21) by five wickets. Article Source: IANS

Raine, Parkinson rescue Durham on dicey final day

Kent had sniff of follow-on until sturdy tenth-wicket stand

Rajasthan Begins Talent Identification Drive For 2028 Olympic Games

Rajasthan Target Olympic Podium Scheme: The Rajasthan government has launched a series of initiatives aimed at transforming the state into a major sporting hub ahead of the 2028 Olympic Games. Guided by the vision of With Sports, and Beyond Sports (Khelon ke Saath bhi, Khelon ke Baad bhi), the state government has introduced multiple programmes focused on identifying sporting talent, strengthening training infrastructure, ensuring financial security for athletes and supporting preparations for international competitions, including the Olympics. Among the key initiatives are the Rajasthan Target Olympic Podium Scheme, out-of-turn government appointments for medal-winning athletes and a Sports Life Insurance Scheme. To prepare athletes for the 2028 Olympics, the state government has launched the Rajasthan Target Olympic Podium Scheme, modelled on the Central governments Olympic preparation programme. Under the scheme, 50 talented athletes from Rajasthan will be identified and provided with world-class coaching, scientific training, sports kits, nutritional support and other modern facilities. Selected athletes will also receive a monthly out-of-pocket allowance of Rs 25,000 to support their training and preparation. As part of the initiative, a Rajasthan Centre of Excellence will be established in Jaipur, where athletes will have access to international-standard infrastructure and training facilities. The scheme specifically targets athletes who are not currently covered under the Central governments Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS). Notably, 20 per cent of the seats under the programme have been reserved for para-athletes. To ensure transparency and effective implementation, the government has constituted the Rajasthan Mission Olympic Committee and the State Talent Search and Development Committee to monitor athlete selection and performance. The Rajasthan government has also strengthened its policy of out-of-turn appointments for outstanding sportspersons to provide long-term career security to athletes bringing laurels to the state. So far, 186 medal-winning athletes have been appointed to various state government positions on the basis of their sporting achievements. Among the prominent sportspersons benefiting under the policy are cricketer Ravi Bishnoi, shooter Manini Kaushik, equestrian athlete Divyakriti Singh and kabaddi player Sachin, all of whom have been appointed as Deputy Superintendents in the Rajasthan Police Service. Para-shooter Mona Agarwal has also been appointed as Lecturer (Physical Education) under the sports quota. In another major step, the government has sanctioned financial assistance exceeding Rs 40.12 crore for 1,786 athletes who have excelled at national and international sporting events. Officials said the grants were intended to help athletes access better training facilities and prepare for future competitions without financial hardship. Prioritising athlete welfare and security, the state government has also introduced a Sports Life Insurance Scheme. Officials said the grants were intended to help athletes access better training facilities and prepare for future competitions without financial hardship. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The government said these initiatives would not only strengthen Rajasthans Olympic ambitions but also help establish a sustainable sports ecosystem supporting athletes both during and after their sporting careers. Article Source: IANS

Sussex escape as rain thwarts Somerset push for victory

Visitors limp to soggy draw seven down after being made to follow on at Taunton

Jake Lehmann notches first Hampshire ton to secure rain-affected draw

Nottinghamshire kept at bay by unbeaten knock from experienced Australian batter

Rain frustrates Warwickshire, Glamorgan after Ingram hundred

Home side make good start of 367 in 75 overs before weather has final say

K'taka: Bengaluru Hosts 5th National Physical Disability Elite Cricket Tournament

National Physical Disability Elite Cricket: The 5th National Physical Disability Elite Cricket Tournament commenced in Bengaluru on Monday with a grand inaugural ceremony featuring colourful cultural performances from Karnataka and enthusiastic participation from players and officials from across the country. Organised under the aegis of the Karnataka State Divyang Cricket Association, the prestigious tournament has brought together top disability cricket teams from across India, providing players with a national platform to showcase their talent and competitive spirit. The inaugural ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including PCCAI President Surendra Lohiya, DCCI and PCCAI General Secretary Ravikant Chauhan, Paralympic Committee Chairman Satyanarayana, Karnataka Divyang Cricket Association President Hemchandra, and Secretary Santosh Gowda. The event was formally inaugurated with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp. Speaking on the occasion, DCCI Secretary Ravikant Chauhan said the organisation had consistently conducted national tournaments featuring 24 teams. However, to enhance the quality and competitiveness of the tournament, this years Elite Tournament has been restricted to the top 12 teams, while a separate Plate Group competition will be organised for the remaining teams. He said the initiative aims to identify the countrys best players and prepare them to represent India internationally in the future. Chauhan added that the organisation was continuously working towards improving facilities for differently-abled cricketers. He noted that players were being encouraged through special awards, including cars and scooters presented as Man of the Series prizes. Our objective is to provide world-class facilities to differently-abled players and continuously improve their standard of play. We are focusing on training, competitions, and all international-level requirements so that players do not face any shortcomings, he said. He further stated that the organisation remained committed to the overall development of disability cricket and thanked sponsors, supporters, and collaborators for making such large-scale events possible. PCCAI President Surendra Lohiya said the organisation had been working to uplift disability cricket for the last 15 years and had extended significant financial support to players. He said around Rs 30.36 lakh had already been distributed as Man of the Match prizes in national tournaments and claimed that the organisation was the first in the country to award Rs 11,000 to every Man of the Match winner. According to Lohiya, more than Rs 87 lakh in prize money has been distributed among players so far, and the organisation would continue its efforts to financially empower players in the future as well. Paralympic Committee Chairman Satyanarayana said the Paralympic Committee, in association with DCCI, was continuously working towards securing the inclusion of mixed disability cricket in the Asian Para Games and Paralympic Games. He expressed confidence that disability cricket would gain greater recognition and respect at the international level in the coming years. Paralympic Committee Chairman Satyanarayana said the Paralympic Committee, in association with DCCI, was continuously working towards securing the inclusion of mixed disability cricket in the Asian Para Games and Paralympic Games. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Organisers highlighted the importance of sportsmanship, dedication, and national unity, and expressed gratitude to players, officials, supporters, and sports enthusiasts for their contributions to the tournament's successful conduct. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Weve Got A Good Score On The Board: Brevis Backs CSK Bowlers To Defend 180 Vs SRH

Chennai Super Kings: Chennai Super Kings batter Dewald Brevis expressed satisfaction with his teams total after his crucial innings of 44 runs helped CSK post 180/7 against Sunrisers Hyderabad in Match 63 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Monday. Brevis played an attacking knock in the middle overs and helped CSK recover after losing wickets at regular intervals. The South African batter said the pitch at Chepauk was not easy for batting and felt the total on the board could prove competitive. Im very grateful. I think weve got a good score on the board. It wasnt one of the easiest wickets, but Im extremely grateful and yeah, its great to be out there, and Im excited to see what our bowlers have for us, Brevis said during the mid-innings break. CSK had started strongly through Sanju Samson before SRH fought back with timely wickets. Brevis then steadied the innings along with Shivam Dube and shifted momentum back in Chennais favour with his aggressive strokeplay. Speaking about the batting approach, Brevis said the team focused on staying positive and handling pressure situations smartly instead of searching for boundaries every ball. I think for us as a batting unit, I wont reveal too much, but its just to look after one ball at a time and be happy sometimes if its a tough ball and you dont get a maximum or something. So just to stay positive and stay in good positions, he added. Brevis also reflected on his personal journey this season and said he remained focused on contributing to the team despite a difficult start to the tournament. I think for us as a batting unit, I wont reveal too much, but its just to look after one ball at a time and be happy sometimes if its a tough ball and you dont get a maximum or something. So just to stay positive and stay in good positions, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brevis innings played a key role in taking CSK to 180/7 in their 20 overs, giving the home side a fighting total against Sunrisers Hyderabad. Article Source: IANS

MJK Smith, former England and Warwickshire captain, dies aged 92

Batter led England in 25 of his 50 Tests, and also claimed an England cap as a fly-half in rugby union

Mushfiqur Rahims Century Powers Bangladesh to 427-Run Target Against Pakistan

Veteran batter Mushfiqur Rahim hit a glittering century as Bangladesh set Pakistan an imposing target of 427 to win the second Test after another commanding day for the hosts on Monday. Bangladesh posted 390 all out in their second innings on day three with Mushfiqur, who made 137, and Litton Das, who hit 69, putting together 123 runs for the fifth wicket. The 39-year-old Mushfiqur rolled back the years as he scored his 14th Test century, surpassing Mominul Haque's record of 13 for Bangladesh. Pakistan openers Azan Awais and Abdullah Fazal survived the last two overs of the day without scoring before bad light ended play. The visitors will need a record chase to level the two-match series after Bangladesh won the opener. West Indies currently hold the record for the 418 they scored to beat Australia in Antigua in 2003, while Pakistan have never successfully chased more than 377. Starting the day on 110-3 with a lead of 156 runs, Bangladesh lost skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto for 15 but Mushfiqur and Litton put the Pakistan bowlers to the test. Litton, who scored a century in the first innings, looked good for another big score but fell to Hasan Ali at deep third-man. Mushfiqur reached his century off 178 balls with a boundary off Mohammad Abbas -- the shot that moved him clear of Mominul into the history books. It was also his eighth Test century since 2022. Taijul Islam provided valuable lower-order support, adding 77 runs with Mushfiqur before off-spinner Sajid Khan dismissed him for 22. Mushfiqur was the last man out as he became Sajid's third wicket in the innings. Pakistan pace bowling coach Umar Gul, however, said his team will fight on. We have two days left and we are mentally prepared. If we bat through the full duration, there is a chance to win we aren't just looking for a draw, said Gul. Two or three good partnerships will be very important. To chase 437, you have to be brave and play positive cricket. In cricket, anything is possible. Bangladesh spinner Taijul was confident the target would weigh on Pakistan. When they see the target number, many things may work in their minds. Discipline is very important now, said Taijul. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Pace bowler Khurram Shahzad took four 4-86 while Sajid claimed 3-126.

IPL 2026: Playing For CSK Feels Very Special,' Says Spencer Johnson

Chennai Super Kings: Spencer Johnson has described his stint with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) as one of the most special experiences of his franchise cricket career, saying the atmosphere around the team, the passionate support from fans, and the togetherness within the dressing room make CSK stand out from other teams around the world. The Australian left-arm pacer, who joined the CSK setup as a replacement for Nathan Ellis for IPL 2026, admitted that franchise cricket can often feel temporary because players move across leagues and teams regularly. However, Johnson said the environment created at CSK under head coach Stephen Fleming has made him feel genuinely connected to the group. Well, you can hear the crowd now. Its unbelievable. I think it can be a little bit transactional playing for so many different teams, but coming here, Fleming has been awesome. The whole group sticks together, so its very special, Johnson told broadcasters ahead of the SRH clash. The Australian pacer recently returned to action after recovering physically from his previous outing and said he was pleased with the way his body responded to the demands of competitive cricket. Yes, it recovered all well, thank you. It was nice to get that extra intensity the other night. It's a little bit different from bowling in the nets, but no, I recovered well, Johnson said. Johnson further revealed that although he was initially unsure about getting opportunities in the playing XI, he always stayed mentally prepared for his chance. I probably wasnt expecting to play, but I'm always making sure I am ready to play. And we saw how good Overton was, and I was kind of just trying to follow what he did and how he did it, he explained. The Australian pacer recently returned to action after recovering physically from his previous outing and said he was pleased with the way his body responded to the demands of competitive cricket. Yes, it recovered all well, thank you. It was nice to get that extra intensity the other night. It's a little bit different from bowling in the nets, but no, I recovered well, Johnson said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Meanwhile, Johnson has played only one match in IPL 2026, where he took one wicket and gave away 39 runs in four overs. Article Source: IANS

S.M. Krishna Memorial Open: rain mars opening days action

Derbyshire wrap up long-awaited Lord's win

Nick Potts helps clean up Middlesex tail before visitors knock off small chase

IPL 2026: Tickets For Playoffs Matches Will Be On Sale From May 20, Announces BCCI

Indian Premier League: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Monday announced that tickets for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 playoffs will go on sale from May 20, with District by Zomato appointed as the official ticketing agency for the knockout phase. As of now, defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru have sealed their playoff spot with a 23-run win over Punjab Kings. The three remaining spots will be decided between Punjab Kings, Chennai Super Kings, Gujarat Titans, Sunrisers Hyderabad, Rajasthan Royals, Kolkata Knight Riders, and Delhi Capitals. The tickets can be purchased via the official IPL website and the District by Zomato platform. The BCCI said the staggered schedule of ticket sales was designed to ensure smooth access for fans and to reward RuPay cardholders with early booking privileges. RuPay Credit Card holders will enjoy an exclusive 24hour priority access window starting on May 20 to secure tickets for Qualifier 1 and the Eliminator, scheduled at Dharamshalas HPCA Stadium on May 26 and the New PCA Stadium in New Chandigarh on May 27, respectively. For Qualifier 2 and the Final, the priority window will open on May 22. Qualifier 2 will be played on May 29 in New Chandigarh, while the final will take place on May 31 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad - the worlds largest cricket stadium set to host back-to-back IPL finals. RuPay Credit Card holders will enjoy an exclusive 24hour priority access window starting on May 20 to secure tickets for Qualifier 1 and the Eliminator, scheduled at Dharamshalas HPCA Stadium on May 26 and the New PCA Stadium in New Chandigarh on May 27, respectively. Also Read: Live Cricket Score This years playoffs format offers a greater edge to the winner of Qualifier 1, with both finalists required to travel to a new venue in Ahmedabad for the summit clash. Traditionally, Qualifier 2 is staged at the same ground as the final, but for IPL 2026, the side advancing from Qualifier 2, like the Qualifier 1 winner, will also have to adjust to fresh conditions at a different venue. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Watching The Ball And Playing Our Shots Has Worked For Us,' Says Kishan On SRH Approach

Indian Premier League: Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) wicketkeeper batter Ishan Kishan believes keeping batting simple and reacting to the ball rather than overthinking situations has been the key to his sides approach in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 as they clash against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at M.A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Monday. Ahead of the match, Kishan stressed that the batting group does not believe in complicating things and instead focuses on reading the conditions and playing naturally. Nothing too complicated, its simply about watching the ball and playing your shots. Theres no need to do anything different. Thats what weve done over the last few games as well. Weve just watched the ball and played according to what the situation demanded, Kishan told broadcasters ahead of the match. The wicketkeeper-batter added that maintaining clarity of thought and staying relaxed at the crease has helped the side perform consistently through the season. Weve been playing this way throughout the tournament. Our last game didnt go well, but at the same time, the most important thing is how you approach each match, taking it one game at a time and starting every new game with a fresh mindset. Thats what our focus will be on, he said. Kishan also spoke about the positive atmosphere within the squad and said the players have continued to believe in each other even during difficult phases of the tournament. I think weve been in a really good space throughout the season. Theres been a very good tempo within the group, and everyone has contributed together. Even when we lost a few games early on, the mindset was always that we could come back from anywhere, he said. When youre in a good headspace, youre able to play your best cricket. Thats exactly what weve done throughout the season so far, and well continue doing that, he added. Kishan further highlighted the importance of trust between batting partners, saying the side has benefited from players backing each other in pressure situations. When youre in a good headspace, youre able to play your best cricket. Thats exactly what weve done throughout the season so far, and well continue doing that, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Kishan has been a standout performer in the ongoing season. He has scored 420 runs in 12 matches at a strike rate of 185.84. He has also hit four half-centuries. Article Source: IANS

Louis Kimber plays matchwinning hand as Northants seal thrilling chase

Substitute batter thumps 66 off 69 to secure low-scoring arm wrestle at Bristol

CSK opt to bat in last Chennai game of IPL 2026

If SRH win, they and Gujarat Titans will be through to the playoffs

IPL 2026: League Will Continue As Scheduled, Says Dhumal As He Dismisses Reports Of Closed-door Playoffs

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya: Indian Premier League (IPL) chairman Arun Dhumal has dismissed speculation surrounding the possibility of the playoffs of the 2026 edition being held behind closed doors or rescheduled due to concerns linked to fuel usage and geopolitical tensions in West Asia. Dhumal clarified that the BCCI has not received any official instructions from the Government of India regarding changes to the tournament schedule and said the league will continue as planned. We only heard media reports (about the IPL playoffs potentially being held behind closed doors due to the petrol issue). Nothing of that sort is going to happen. The league will continue as scheduled. We will follow government directions, and the BCCI has not received any such directive from the government, IPL chairman Arun Dhumal told IANS. The clarification comes after reports suggested that discussions were taking place over the possibility of modifying the playoff schedule, reducing travel, or even conducting matches without spectators amid concerns over fuel consumption and travel logistics. The debate gained attention after the Chamber of Trade & Industry (CTI) chairman, Brijesh Goyal, reportedly wrote to Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, urging authorities to consider measures aimed at reducing fuel usage during the remainder of the tournament. According to reports, the letter proposed steps such as limiting air travel, conducting matches at fewer venues, and even staging games without crowds in order to reduce pressure on national fuel consumption during a period of geopolitical uncertainty in West Asia. However, Dhumals statement has made it clear that, as of now, there is no proposal under consideration from the BCCI to alter the playoff schedule or hold matches behind closed doors. According to reports, the letter proposed steps such as limiting air travel, conducting matches at fewer venues, and even staging games without crowds in order to reduce pressure on national fuel consumption during a period of geopolitical uncertainty in West Asia. Also Read: Live Cricket Score After a single rest day, New Chandigarh will also host Qualifier 2 on May 29 to determine the second finalist. The tournament reaches its climax on Sunday with the Grand Final taking place under the lights at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Article Source: IANS

'Not A Public Authority': BCCI Not Covered Under RTI Act, Rules CIC

Tamil Nadu Societies Registration Act: The Central Information Commission (CIC) has held that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is not a public authority under the Right to Information (RTI) Act, observing that the cricket body is neither established by law nor substantially financed or controlled by the government. Information Commissioner P.R. Ramesh, while dismissing a second appeal filed by Geeta Rani seeking information regarding the BCCIs authority to represent India in international cricket and select players for the national team, ruled that the statutory requirements under Section 2(h) of the RTI Act were not satisfied in the case of the BCCI. The BCCI cannot be classified as a Public Authority within the meaning of Section 2(h) of the RTI Act and the provisions of the Act are therefore inapplicable to it in the facts and circumstances of the present case, the CIC said in its order passed on Monday. The apex information body was hearing an appeal arising from an RTI application filed in 2017 before the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports seeking details regarding the provisions under which the BCCI represents India, the benefits granted to it by the government, and the extent of governmental control over the cricket body. The Centre had replied that the information sought was not available with it and stated that the RTI application could not be transferred to the BCCI since it had not been declared a public authority under the RTI Act. In the proceedings before the CIC, the BCCI argued that it is a private autonomous society registered under the Tamil Nadu Societies Registration Act and does not satisfy the tests of ownership, control, or substantial financing required under Section 2(h) of the RTI Act. In its order, the CIC observed that BCCI was not created by the Constitution, the Parliament, a state legislature or any government notification, but was merely a society registered under the law. Registration is only a mechanism for granting legal recognition to an entity formed by private individuals and does not amount to the body being brought into existence by the statute itself, it ruled. It further held that there was no material on record to show that the BCCI was substantially financed by the government. The CIC recorded that the BCCI generates revenue independently through media rights, sponsorships, broadcasting agreements and ticket sales, and is financially self-sustaining. The BCCI functions independently of any governmental finance. Its revenues are generated wholly from its own activities, the order said. Also referring to the Supreme Courts landmark ruling in Board of Control for Cricket in India v. Cricket Association of Bihar, where the apex court had introduced governance reforms in the cricket body through the Lodha Committee recommendations, the CIC noted that while the Supreme Court recognised that BCCI performs functions having a public character, it had not declared the body a public authority under the RTI Act. The BCCI functions independently of any governmental finance. Its revenues are generated wholly from its own activities, the order said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score In view of the aforementioned factual and legal position, the Commission upholds the submissions advanced by Respondents. Accordingly, the appeal, being devoid of merit, is dismissed, the order said. Article Source: IANS

Former England Captain And Rugby Union Player Mike Smith Dies Aged 92

Warwickshire County Cricket Club: Former England Test captain Mike Smith, widely known by his initials MJK, has died at the age of 92, the Warwickshire County Cricket Club said on Monday. Smith, who combined a distinguished cricket career with a brief stint as a rugby union international in 1956, represented England in 50 Tests and captained the side on 25 occasions from 1958 to 1972. In all, Smith made 2,278 runs, including three centuries and 11 fifties, and was awarded his OBE in 1976 for services to cricket. Warwickshire confirmed the news of his demise with a moment of silence observed by players and officials before play began on Day Four of their County Championship fixture against Glamorgan. Warwickshire County Cricket Club are saddened to learn of the passing of Bears legend MJK Smith at the age of 92. Once a Bear, Always a Bear, the club posted on their social media accounts. Smith captained Warwickshire from 1957 to 1967 and scored 39,832 first-class runs in 637 matches during his county career, the 18th-highest total in overall records. Before coming to Warwickshire, Smith also turned out for Leicestershire from 1951 to 1955 and even turned out for Oxford University for two years. Warwickshire County Cricket Club are saddened to learn of the passing of Bears legend MJK Smith at the age of 92. Once a Bear, Always a Bear, the club posted on their social media accounts. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Following retirement, Smith served five years as a referee before returning to Warwickshire as their chairman in 1991 and served in the role till 2003, apart from being an ICC match referee. His son Neil, known as NMK, carried forward the family legacy by captaining Warwickshire and representing England in ODIs. Article Source: IANS

Kohli Delivers Through Performances, Not Reels: IPL Chief Arun Dhumal Urges Cricketers To Stay Focused

Indian Premier League: Indian Premier League (IPL) chairman Arun Dhumal has urged cricketers to prioritise their on-field performances over social media activity during tournaments, saying players should remain focused on cricket instead of spending time making reels and behind-the-scenes content. Dhumal stressed that while social media has become an integral part of modern sport, players must ensure it does not become a distraction during high-pressure tournaments like the Indian Premier League (IPL). Speaking to IANS, the IPL chairman gave the example of star batter Virat Kohli, who has a massive fanbase, but he remains focused on cricket during major tournaments. Cricketers should focus on realities rather than reels. Take Virat Kohli, for example despite having a massive social media following, he remains completely focused on cricket when he is on the field. He has delivered results through his performances, not through reels. I feel players should avoid indulging in making reels while a tournament is underway, IPL chairman Arun Dhumal told IANS. Dhumals remarks come amid growing scrutiny around the social media activities of players during the IPL 2026 season. Arshdeep Singh recently found himself in controversy after reports claimed the BCCI had warned him over behind-the-scenes vlogging content involving fellow players. One of his travel vlogs allegedly showed Yuzvendra Chahal vaping during a team flight to Hyderabad. Clips from the video went viral on social media before the original upload was reportedly edited. In another incident, a Snapchat video featuring Tilak Varma sparked criticism online. In the clip, Arshdeep jokingly referred to Tilak as andhere and suggested he should apply sunscreen, comments that several users criticised for carrying racist undertones. One of his travel vlogs allegedly showed Yuzvendra Chahal vaping during a team flight to Hyderabad. Clips from the video went viral on social media before the original upload was reportedly edited. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Earlier this month, the BCCI reportedly circulated fresh operational and security guidelines to all 10 IPL franchises. The advisory included instructions related to social media behaviour, anti-corruption protocols, smoking and vaping restrictions, and player conduct during the tournament. Article Source: IANS

Jack White picks up from Harry Brook to condemn Surrey to innings defeat

Yorkshire claim 23 points for their second win in six games with visitors taking only two points

IPL 2026: Abishek Porel Embodies Fearless New Generation Of Batters, Says KL Rahul

Indian Premier League: Delhi Capitals wicketkeeperbatter KL Rahul has hailed Abishek Porel as a shining example of the fearless new generation of Indian batters, adding that hes been impressed by his ability to hit sixes and access all parts of the ground without any fear of the situation in a game. In their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Sunday, Porel, whos been with DC since 2023, shone by hitting 51 off 31 balls, while sharing a 105-run stand with Rahul, who hit 56, as the Axar Patel-led side chased down the target of 194 set by Rajasthan Royals to win by five wickets and keep their playoffs hopes alive. Its his ability to hit sixes and access all parts of the ground. The new guys who are coming in are all 360degree batters. Abishek Porel can hit you over longon for a six off the first ball, or he can scoop you over fine leg on the very first delivery. That kind of range is unusual, even among experienced players. One thing is to think about doing it. But the special thing about the new boys, especially Abishek Porel, is that they can execute those shots in highpressure games against good bowlers and strong teams. He doesnt need time to settle. He doesnt fear the situation. He just sees the ball and goes after it. So yes, all credit goes to their training and how well prepared they are for such a big competition. That kind of mindset is rare in a young player. He believes in his ability, and that is why he is succeeding. Abishek Porel is a great example of this fearless new generation, said Rahul on JioStar. Rahul also spoke about another emerging batting talent, left-handed batter Sahil Parakh, who made seven in Sundays game. Rahul described Parakh as a fearless prodigy who caught his eye even before the start of the season in the sides practice camp. I saw a video Delhi Capitals posted from a training session in Hyderabad. It was just a minute of him hitting six after six. I thought, Who is this guy? I knew we had picked a player named Sahil, and I had seen some clips of him in the Maharashtra League. But watching him hit those sixes, it really grabbed my attention. Rahul also spoke about another emerging batting talent, left-handed batter Sahil Parakh, who made seven in Sundays game. Rahul described Parakh as a fearless prodigy who caught his eye even before the start of the season in the sides practice camp. Also Read: Live Cricket Score He is naturally a toporder batter, but in one game, he was sent in at five or six and had to finish the innings. He scored 20 runs in the final over. The composure, the skill, and the ability to take on any bowler, pace or spin, were striking. He could hit the ball to any part of the ground. He has already made his debut for Delhi Capitals, and I hope that he gets a proper chance to show what he can really do, he added. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Hazlewood And Bhuvi's Success Down To Sticking To Basics, Says KL Rahul

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Delhi Capitals wicketkeeperbatter KL Rahul has lauded the consistency of Josh Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar Kumar in T20s, saying their success lies in doing the simple things right under pressure. The duo have been central to defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) becoming the first team to qualify for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 playoffs. While Bhuvneshwar is leading wicket-taking charts with 24 scalps from 13 matches, Hazlewood has 12 wickets from ten games. In today's T20 cricket, everyone talks about having a unique bowling style or an X-factor. But Josh Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar Kumar are very simple, traditional bowlers. Yet, year after year, they keep succeeding and troubling batters. That tells us that you don't always need to try something different. Simple things work if you do them consistently and under pressure. That is what I admire about Josh and Bhuvi. With many bowlers, if you hit them off their good ball, they panic and try something new. But with Josh and Bhuvi, no matter what you do, they stick to their plan. They keep attacking the stumps. Every ball is aimed at a length where you can be bowled, LBW, or caught behind. They always keep all three modes of dismissal in play. Over a long IPL season, that consistency of doing the simple things right is what brings them success and makes them so hard to face, said Rahul on JioStar. In Delhi Capitals' beating of Rajasthan Royals by five wickets at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Rahul top-scored with 56 and managed to keep Jofra Archer at bay by taking one boundary off him. The challenge in facing Archer, as per Rahul, is one where he has to balance instinct and reaction. When you face someone like Jofra Archer, you try to use his pace against him. But he is incredibly smart. He knows what the batter is planning to do. Bowlers today are highly skilled and sharp. They read your mind and cut off your options before you even think of them. So, the contest comes down to just one ball. It becomes a simple but intense battle - Jofra versus KL. In Delhi Capitals' beating of Rajasthan Royals by five wickets at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Rahul top-scored with 56 and managed to keep Jofra Archer at bay by taking one boundary off him. The challenge in facing Archer, as per Rahul, is one where he has to balance instinct and reaction. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Jofra has his clear strengths, but I have my strengths too. He will also think about my strengths and try to bowl away from them. That is what makes the contest exciting. Both sides are trying to out-think each other. I just focus on playing the best shot I can play against Jofra in each situation and executing it under pressure without overcomplicating things, he added. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Lucky That Virat Was Batting Out There, Says Venkatesh Iyer After His Unbeaten 73 Vs PBKS

Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer credited Virat Kohli and mentor Dinesh Karthik for helping him remain calm during his match-winning innings against Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 clash at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamshala on Sunday. Iyer played a sensational unbeaten knock of 73 off 40 deliveries to power RCB to 222/4, a total that eventually helped the side secure a 23-run victory and become the first team to qualify for the IPL 2026 playoffs. Speaking in a video released by RCB on Monday, Iyer said he was delighted to contribute to the teams success and stressed that he focuses more on impact rather than personal milestones. Very happy, very happy that I got to bat, very happy that I was able to contribute. I really don't look at scores, I look at what I'm able to contribute to my team, and I'm happy that I was able to do it, Iyer said. The left-hander accelerated brilliantly in the second half of the innings after initially taking time to settle. He added important runs alongside Kohli after Devdutt Padikkals dismissal before finishing strongly with Tim David at the other end. Iyer revealed that batting alongside Kohli helped him remain composed in a pressure situation and said the senior batter constantly guided him during the innings. Its very important to stay in the moment, and I was lucky that Virat was batting out there. A few key pointers he gave me and also DK throughout kept helping me, he said. Kohli scored 58 off 37 balls and stitched together a crucial partnership with Venkatesh before falling to Yuzvendra Chahal in the 15th over. Iyer then took complete control of the match in the death overs and ensured RCB crossed the 220-run mark. The all-rounder also highlighted RCBs team culture and said the franchises management group, consisting of Mo Bobat, Andy Flower, and Dinesh Karthik, had created a clean and supportive environment for every player in the squad. I think that has been the strength of RCB, we don't look at a particular number, we take it ball by ball, over by over and see where it takes us, because that's the toughest thing to do, staying in the moment, he said. Every aspect of RCB is outstanding, the cricket part of it, the management part of it. Mo, Andy, and DK, I would like to call them Trimurti now, they are unbelievable, he added. Iyer further praised the management for treating every player equally, regardless of experience or reputation, saying it helped create clarity within the squad. Every aspect of RCB is outstanding, the cricket part of it, the management part of it. Mo, Andy, and DK, I would like to call them Trimurti now, they are unbelievable, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Once you know your role, once you are clear about what you are going to do, its just about execution, and I think today was a good day, he added. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: When And Where To Watch RR Vs LSG, Know All Details

Lucknow Super Giants: Rajasthan Royals will take on Lucknow Super Giants at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium on Tuesday in a high-stakes encounter that could significantly influence the playoff picture as the league stage nears its conclusion. With the competition intensifying and every result carrying added weight, both sides enter the fixture with sharply contrasting momentum and objectives. Lucknow enter the game on the back of a commanding win over Chennai Super Kings, a performance that underlined their growing rhythm at a crucial stage of the season. Their most recent outing was headlined by a dominant all-round display, beginning with Akash Singhs incisive spell of 3/26 that dismantled CSKs top order. The chase was then taken over by Mitchell Marsh, whose explosive 38-ball 90 ensured a comfortable seven-wicket victory. That result has boosted Lucknows confidence as they aim to close out the season strongly and strengthen their position in the standings. Rajasthan Royals, meanwhile, return home after a tough outing in Delhi where they were edged out in a high-scoring thriller on Sunday. The defeat marked their third consecutive loss, adding pressure on the side as they look to stay in contention and avoid slipping further down the table. The Royals will now be desperate to regroup quickly on home turf and halt their losing streak at a decisive point in the season. For Lucknow, led by Rishabh Pant, the fixture represents an opportunity to build on their recent surge and secure revenge for an earlier defeat against Rajasthan this season. A victory would not only extend their momentum but also improve their standing as LSG, currently placed at the bottom of the points table, and push towards a better finish in the standings. When: Tuesday, May 19, 7:30 PM IST Where: Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur Where to Watch: The RR vs LSG match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Where: Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur Also Read: Live Cricket Score Lucknow Super Giants: Rishabh Pant (c & wk), Aiden Markram, Himmat Singh, Matthew Breetzke, Mukul Choudhary, Akshat Raghuwanshi, Josh Inglis, Mitchell Marsh, Abdul Samad, Shahbaz Ahamad, Arshin Kulkarni, Wanindu Hasaranga, Ayush Badoni, Mohammad Shami, Avesh Khan, M. Siddharth, Digvesh Singh, Akash Singh, Prince Yadav, Arjun Tendulkar, Anrich Nortje, Naman Tiwari, Mayank Yadav, Mohsin Khan. Article Source: IANS

Lanka Premier League returns after two years, opener set for July 17

Sri Lanka's T20 franchise competition returns for the first time since its 2024 edition, with the player draft scheduled for June 1

Jaffna Kings Get New Owners Ahead of LPL 2026, Sign Bhanuka Rajapaksa & Dunith Wellalage

Jaffna Kings today announced that the franchise will come under the ownership of Sports Commune, led by Indian sports entrepreneurs Manjot Kalra and Mayank Goel, ahead of Lanka Premier League Season 6. The new ownership brings together cricketing experience, entrepreneurship, youth development, digital media and grassroots sports engagement. Through Sports Commune, the owners aim to strengthen Jaffna Kings as a competitive cricket franchise while building a wider sports platform that connects players, fans, young athletes and commercial partners across South Asia. The Jaffna Kings have also pre-signed Sri Lanka batter Bhanuka Rajapaksa and all-rounder Dunith Wellalage, giving the franchise a strong local foundation as it prepares for the upcoming season. Manjot Kalra, Co-Founder of Sports Commune, is a former professional cricketer, digital creator and podcast host based in Delhi. Through Second Innings with Manjot Kalra, he engages cricketers, athletes and sports personalities, bringing sporting stories and insights to a growing digital audience. Mayank Goel, also Co-Founder of Sports Commune, is an entrepreneur with ventures in digital security, insurance and sports development. Welcoming the new ownership, Lanka Premier League Director Samantha Dodanwela said, Sri Lanka Cricket welcomes Sports Commune as the new ownership group of Jaffna Kings for Lanka Premier League Season 6. Their commitment to cricket, youth engagement and sports development adds further strength to the league. Also Read: Live Cricket Score IPG Global Founder and Chairman Anil Mohan said, Sports Commune brings cricketing knowledge, business experience and digital engagement to Jaffna Kings. We look forward to supporting the franchise as part of a season focused on strong competition, fan engagement and commercial opportunity.

IPL 2026: CSK Vs SRH Could Be A Virtual Knockout Game, Says Aakash Chopra

Chennai Super Kings: With IPL 2026 entering its decisive phase to decide the remaining three playoffs spots, former India cricketer Aakash Chopra has described the Chennai Super KingsSunrisers Hyderabad contest as a virtual knockout game that could go a long way in determining playoff qualification. With defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru confirming their spot in the last four stage, if SRH manages to win Mondays clash at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, they will be assured of a playoffs berth. Such an outcome will simultaneously confirm Gujarat Titans place in the playoffs, thus leaving only one spot open. Its CSKs final home game of the season and, given how congested the table is, it will be a mustwin for both, especially the home team. They have had to manage a lot of injuries, but still, players like Anshul Kamboj, Urvil Patel and the two spinners have stood up for them and they will be key again if they have to stop SRHs bighitters. SRH would be ruing their last defeat and, given they still have a chance to finish on 18 points, they wouldnt want to leave it until the last game. In my opinion, this could be a virtual knockout game for both. Whoever wins this one will come significantly closer to qualifying. With the stakes this high and Chepauk expected to be buzzing, fans should be in for a treat, said Chopra on JioStar. Former India left-arm pacer Irfan Pathan, meanwhile, pointed to the highstakes nature of SRHs final fixture against Royal Challengers Bengaluru on May 22, a day after GT take on CSK in a high profile clash in Ahmedabad, as a must-watch due to the face-off between Travis Head-Abhishek Sharma opening pair and new-ball duo of Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood. SRH would be ruing their last defeat and, given they still have a chance to finish on 18 points, they wouldnt want to leave it until the last game. In my opinion, this could be a virtual knockout game for both. Whoever wins this one will come significantly closer to qualifying. With the stakes this high and Chepauk expected to be buzzing, fans should be in for a treat, said Chopra on JioStar. Also Read: Live Cricket Score RCBs bowling attack, with Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood setting the tone upfront, has been executing its plans exceptionally well. Given how crucial Powerplay has been in the tournament, with both bat and ball, how Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head fare against those two could be decisive, he added. Article Source: IANS

5th National Physical Disability Elite Cricket Tournament Kicks Off In Bengaluru

National Physical Disability Elite Cricket: The 5th National Physical Disability Elite Cricket Tournament, hosted by the Karnataka State Divyang Cricket Association, began with great fanfare. The event featured lively cultural performances from Karnataka and an enthusiastic atmosphere. Top teams from across the nation are competing in this prestigious tournament, offering players a valuable platform to showcase their skills. The ceremony was attended by PCCAI President Surendra Lohiya, DCCI, and PCCAI General Secretary Ravikant Chauhan; Paralympic Chairman Satyanarayana; Karnataka Divyang Cricket Association President Hemchandra; and Secretary Santosh Gowda, along with several distinguished guests. The tournament was formally inaugurated with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp. During the event, DCCI Secretary Ravikant Chauhan mentioned that DCCI has regularly hosted national tournaments with 24 teams. This year, to enhance competitiveness and uphold higher quality standards, they decided to hold the Elite Tournament with the top 12 teams. Additionally, a Plate Group competition will be organised for the remaining 12 teams. He also mentioned that the main goal of this initiative is to discover the countrys top players and train them to compete internationally for India in the future. He added that the organisation has been continuously working to provide better facilities for players. To encourage athletes, the organisation has even awarded cars and scooters as Man of the Series prizes. DCCIs objective is to provide world-class facilities to differently-abled cricketers and continuously enhance their standard of play. Special attention is given to players training, tournaments, and every requirement at the international level to ensure they do not face any shortcomings. Ravikant Chauhan said the organisation remains committed to the holistic development of players and will continue working to take disability cricket to new heights. He also expressed gratitude to all sponsors, partners, and supporters, stating that such large-scale events and enhanced player facilities are only possible because of their support. PCCAI President Surendra Lohiya said that his organisation has been working continuously to uplift disability cricket for the past 15 years. He highlighted that the organisation has provided significant financial assistance to players over the years. In national tournaments alone, approximately Rs 30.36 lakh has been awarded as Man of the Match prize money. He added that their organisation is the first in the country to provide Rs 11,000 to every Man of the Match award winner. He also said the organisation has distributed more than Rs 87 lakh in total prize money among players so far. He assured that continuous efforts will be made in the future to further strengthen players financially. PCCAI President Surendra Lohiya said that his organisation has been working continuously to uplift disability cricket for the past 15 years. He highlighted that the organisation has provided significant financial assistance to players over the years. In national tournaments alone, approximately Rs 30.36 lakh has been awarded as Man of the Match prize money. He added that their organisation is the first in the country to provide Rs 11,000 to every Man of the Match award winner. Also Read: Live Cricket Score During the ceremony, former international players were also honoured, and messages encouraging sportsmanship, dedication, and national unity were conveyed. The organisers thanked all players, officials, partners, and sports fans, and wished for the tournament's smooth and successful execution. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Starcs Second Spell Completely Changed The Game, Says Boucher

Chennai Super Kings: Delhi Capitals playoff hopes were kept alive by Mitchell Starcs decisive second spell, which completely changed the game in their favour against Rajasthan Royals, said former South Africa wicketkeeper-batter Mark Boucher. Starc's figures of 4-40 restricted RR to 193/8, which DC chased down with four balls to spare and record a five-wicket victory. The win also meant DC moved back to seventh spot in the 10-team points table and kept their slim playoffs hopes alive. At one stage, Rajasthan Royals looked set for a total close to 230 after the kind of Powerplay they had. Mitchell Starc hadnt quite found his rhythm early on, but when he came back, he completely changed the game with his variations in pace and execution under pressure. That over, where he picked up three wickets, shifted the momentum entirely and pulled Rajasthan back from what looked like a massive total. A few of the batters might feel they played their shots too early, but theres no doubt that spell changed the complexion of the game and ultimately kept the target within Delhi Capitals reach, said Boucher on JioHotstar. What also helped DC was young all-rounder Madhav Tiwari taking wickets of Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Shubham Dubey via slower balls, something which former India leg-spinner Piyush Chawla duly pointed out. Madhav Tiwari has been extremely impressive, not just in this game but in the previous match as well. For a youngster with limited firstclass experience, he already seems to have a lot of variety in his bowling. But the key is having the confidence to execute those options at the right moments, and hes doing that with remarkable ease. Even in Dharamshala, where bowlers were going for plenty, he smartly used his slower balls into the pitch and delivered an important spell. In this game again, just when Rajasthan Royals were building momentum, he picked up the crucial wicket of Vaibhav Suryavanshi and helped slow the scoring rate. Chawla also praised Abhishek Porels positive intent in the chase, as he hit 51 and shared a 105-run opening stand with KL Rahul, who top-scored with 56. Abishek Porels innings was extremely impressive because despite not getting too many opportunities this season, he came in with complete positive intent. What stood out was the way he ensured there was no pressure on KL Rahul at the other end. Whenever the ball was in his zone, he was willing to take his chances and play the attacking shots, which was very important in a chase of over 190. Considering how the first innings played out, that aggressive start made a big difference for Delhi Capitals. Looking ahead to Mondays clash, Chawla said Sunrisers Hyderabad hold a slight edge over Chennai Super Kings due to the latter being hit by injuries, including to seam-bowling all-rounder Jamie Overton. What stood out was the way he ensured there was no pressure on KL Rahul at the other end. Whenever the ball was in his zone, he was willing to take his chances and play the attacking shots, which was very important in a chase of over 190. Considering how the first innings played out, that aggressive start made a big difference for Delhi Capitals. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Replacing that kind of allround impact wont be easy. Spencer Johnson can strengthen the bowling, but he doesnt offer the same batting depth, so it will be interesting to see whether CSK stick with the same combination or look at making changes for such an important game. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: If Dhoni Doesnt Play Against SRH, Hell Come Back Next Year, Says Harbhajan

Chennai Super Kings: Former India cricketer Harbhajan Singh made a passionate appeal to MS Dhoni ahead of Chennai Super Kings final home match of the IPL 2026 season, and has urged him to play, saying that hell be fulfilling his promise to the fans by playing his careers final game at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. Harbhajan also noted that if the former CSK skipper doesnt play on Monday could also mean that hed come back for the 2027 season to keep up his promise. Dhoni has not played a single game this season due to a calf injury, but with CSK set to face Sunrisers Hyderabad in Chennai on Monday, speculation around a possible farewell appearance has intensified once again. Speaking before the game, Harbhajan reflected on Dhonis long-standing connection with Chennai and admitted the occasion feels significant given the uncertainty surrounding the former India captains future. Look, he had said earlier that he would like to play his final match against Chennai, at Chennais ground. And now that time has come this is the last match in Chennai. Its possible that we may see Thala playing on Monday for the last time, and maybe this Chennai crowd will also be watching him play for the final time. And if he doesnt play, then it means hell come back again next year. Then hell say, Next year, youll see me playing my last match. You never know with him, but hopefully he will play, Harbhajan said on JioHotstar. Harbhajan then delivered a humorous yet heartfelt message directly aimed at his former teammate, urging him to take the field one more time for the fans. Brother, just play tomorrow, Dhoni, please play. Otherwise Ill come to your Chennai, and if needed, Ill drag you onto the ground myself and ask you to play, he said. The comments have added further emotion to an already highly anticipated evening at Chepauk, where supporters are expected to turn up in huge numbers, hoping to catch a glimpse of Thala in CSK colours again. Brother, just play tomorrow, Dhoni, please play. Otherwise Ill come to your Chennai, and if needed, Ill drag you onto the ground myself and ask you to play, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I have always planned my cricket. The last game I played was in Ranchi. The last home game in ODI was at my hometown in Ranchi. So, hopefully, my last T20 will be in Chennai. Whether it's next year or in five years' time, we don't really know, Dhoni had said. Article Source: IANS

The Boys Have Got To Stay Positive And Believe: PBKS Bowling Coach Hopes Shifts Focus To Final League Clash

Indian Premier League: Punjab Kings (PBKS) are shifting their complete focus to their final league match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season following an afternoon encounter against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the HPCA Cricket Stadium, Dharamshala. Despite strong phases during the match, a series of shifting momentums and early hurdles in the chase resulted in a sixth consecutive defeat, leaving the side's playoff progress dependent on upcoming net run rate outcomes and external results. With one match left in the league stage, the team remains on 13 points. While the recent run of results has challenged their position, the mathematical window for the post-season remains open as the squad enters the final week of round-robin fixtures. Fast bowling coach James Hopes pointed directly to on-field execution and the difficulty of maintaining consistency in the T20 format as the primary factors in the recent stretch. I think what derailed our campaign was an inability to take control of momentum in games. Every time we looked like doing it, we did something to hurt ourselves or trip ourselves up. T20 is a game where its very easy to get on winning streaks, and it is very easy to go the other way. Weve had both emotions in this tournament, and now we need a week to regroup the boys. Hopes addressed the adjustments made to the playing eleven over the last few weeks, emphasizing that the coaching staff has maintained a structured approach to selection. Every change that we've made has been very measured. Theyve been thought out with the opposition in mind, and thought out with trying to keep our core structurelike Arshdeep, Chahal, and our top fourand trying to make changes around them to complement what they do. It just hasnt worked out in the last few weeks, and thats the way this game goes sometimes. Despite the tough run, Hopes stressed that the squad's work ethic remains high, and the immediate priority is rebuilding absolute confidence before the final match. The boys are training well, the boys are planning well. It's just that we get into moments where we get the game back our way and right now its just not happening. The boys have got to regroup, stay positive, and theyve got to believe. At the moment, its going to be about just instilling that belief back into them. Looking ahead to the final league fixture against Lucknow Super Giants, Hopes gave a candid assessment of the task at hand. The boys are training well, the boys are planning well. It's just that we get into moments where we get the game back our way and right now its just not happening. The boys have got to regroup, stay positive, and theyve got to believe. At the moment, its going to be about just instilling that belief back into them. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Punjab Kings will travel to Lucknow next week to face the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Saturday, in their final league match of the tournament. Article Source: IANS

MPL 2026 To Begin From June 3 In Indore, Gwalior Cheetahs To Face Ujjain Falcons In Opener

The Madhya Pradesh League: The Madhya Pradesh League (MPL) 2026 is all set to begin from June 3 with an expanded and action-packed season featuring 10 mens teams and five womens franchises competing across multiple venues in Indore. The opening match of the mens tournament will see Gwalior Cheetahs take on Ujjain Falcons on June 3 at the Holkar Stadium. The womens competition will begin on June 4, with Chambal Ghariyals taking on Gwalior Shernis in the opening match at Daly College in Indore. Former MPL chairman Mahanaaryaman Scindia said, We are delighted to announce the schedule for the upcoming season of the Madhya Pradesh League. With more teams, more matches, and the inclusion of an expanded womens competition, this season promises to be bigger and more competitive than ever before. The league continues to provide a strong platform for emerging cricketers from across Madhya Pradesh, and we look forward to witnessing high-quality cricket and enthusiastic fan support throughout the tournament, he added. The womens tournament will follow a competitive format where the team finishing at the top of the points table will directly qualify for the final. The Eliminator, featuring the next best teams, will be played on June 12, while the womens final is scheduled for June 13 at Holkar Stadium. From June 4 onwards, the league stage of the men's MPL will feature double-headers and triple headers. On June 4, Malwa Stallions will face Chambal Ghariyals, followed by a clash between Bhopal Leopards and Indore Pink Panthers at Holkar Stadium. The league stage of the mens competition will continue till June 24, while both semi-finals are scheduled to be played on June 25 at Holkar Stadium. The grand finale of the Madhya Pradesh League 2026 will take place on June 26 at Holkar Stadium in Indore. With the addition of new franchises and an expanded structure across both categories, MPL 2026 is expected to provide a major platform for emerging cricketers from Madhya Pradesh while delivering high-quality cricketing action for fans throughout the season. The league stage of the mens competition will continue till June 24, while both semi-finals are scheduled to be played on June 25 at Holkar Stadium. The grand finale of the Madhya Pradesh League 2026 will take place on June 26 at Holkar Stadium in Indore. Also Read: Live Cricket Score In the womens competition, Gwalior Shernis and Royal Nimar Eagles are the two new franchises added for the upcoming season. They will join Bhopal Wolves, Bundelkhand Bulls, and Chambal Ghariyals in the expanded five-team tournament. Article Source: IANS

Dani Gibson Eager To Make Up For Lost Time At Womens T20 World Cup

T20 World Cup: Dani Gibson is ready to move past a frustrating time of injuries and make a strong impact for the England women's team at the upcoming ICC Women's T20 World Cup at home. The 25-year-old all-rounder recently returned to international cricket during Englands ODI series against the New Zealand women's national cricket team. She had spent over a year on the sidelines due to a persistent back injury. Gibson showed promise in the series, scoring a quick 19 in the opening match at Durham and taking a wicket in each of her spells across the three games. Her performances led head coach Charlotte Edwards to name her in Englands 15-player squad for the T20 World Cup beginning on June 12. Ive been out of it for a while, so its just nice to be back, Gibson told Sky Sports Cricket. Everyone seems in a really good place. Weve had great time together over the last week, had good conversations, and spent time training together this winter. I think the team is in a good space it should be a good summer. England will continue their preparations for the global tournament with three T20Is against New Zealand starting on Wednesday. They will then play another three-match T20I series at home against the India women's national cricket team later this month. While Gibson is expected to play a key role in the lead-up, she is focusing on taking things one step at a time after her long rehabilitation. England will continue their preparations for the global tournament with three T20Is against New Zealand starting on Wednesday. They will then play another three-match T20I series at home against the India women's national cricket team later this month. Also Read: Live Cricket Score It was great to be back out there and see all the hard work I put in, along with the support from the science and medical team, pay off and allow me to perform as the all-rounder I want to be. Article Source: IANS

The Captaincy Was Quite Weak: Sehwag Questions CSKs Tactics Amid Tight Playoff Race

Chennai Super Kings: Chennai Super Kings endured a seven-wicket defeat against Lucknow Super Giants in their previous outing, and former India opener Virender Sehwag did not hold back while analysing the tactical decisions made by skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad. After being put in to bat, Chennai posted 187/5, a total that appeared competitive on a good batting surface. However, Lucknow made light work of the chase, reaching the target in just 16.4 overs thanks to an explosive start from openers Mitchell Marsh and Josh Inglis. The pair dominated the Powerplay, taking apart CSKs pace-heavy attack and racing to 86 without loss in the first six overs. Chennai relied on seamers Mukesh Choudhary, Spencer Johnson, and Anshul Kamboj early on, while left-arm spinner Akeal Hosein remained unused after the side brought in Gurjapneet Singh as the Impact Player. Sehwag questioned that decision and felt CSK missed an opportunity to disrupt the momentum with spin much earlier in the innings. When two Australian batters were playing together who played pace bowling well, you could have started with spin, right? I did not understand why you decided in advance that we would bring Gurjapneet? Sehwag told Cricbuzz. The former opener also criticised Gaikwads reluctance to experiment during the Powerplay despite the obvious struggles of the fast bowlers. Spinner Noor Ahmad was introduced only after the fielding restrictions ended, though he eventually emerged as Chennais most economical bowler with figures of 0/21 from four overs. The captaincy was quite weak; you didn't even try spin at all in the Powerplay. You could have at least tried it once because Marsh plays pace bowling so well. At least you had a chance of getting a wicket if a spinner was brought on early. It may have been that the spinner was hit for four sixes, but even the pacers were hit for four sixes, Sehwag said. Sehwag believed a more proactive approach with spin could have shifted the contest, especially considering Lucknows middle order has struggled for consistency this season. The captaincy was quite weak; you didn't even try spin at all in the Powerplay. You could have at least tried it once because Marsh plays pace bowling so well. At least you had a chance of getting a wicket if a spinner was brought on early. It may have been that the spinner was hit for four sixes, but even the pacers were hit for four sixes, Sehwag said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Despite the setback, Chennai remain in contention for a playoff spot. The five-time champions currently sit on 12 points from 12 matches and still have a path to the knockout stage if they manage to win their remaining two league fixtures. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Vaughan Questions ECB Over Archers Stay Ahead Of Englands Test Summer

New Delhi: Former England captain Michael Vaughan has raised concerns over Englands handling of Jofra Archer ahead of the home Test series against New Zealand, arguing that centrally contracted players should not remain committed to franchise cricket when international duty is around the corner. England begin their summer campaign with the first Test against New Zealand at Lords on June 4, but Archer was not included in the squad announced by the ECB. The fast bowler continues to be managed carefully after a long spell on the sidelines due to injuries, even as he remains involved in the IPL. Vaughan believes the issue extends beyond Archer himself and reflects a broader scheduling and contractual dilemma within English cricket as he questioned the understanding between the ECB and BCCI that has enabled England players to stay for the full IPL season despite the overlap with the Test calendar. Im sure hell be in the squad (for the second Test). It comes midway through June. I think we have a problem in English cricket at the moment because Jofra was obviously staying for the full IPL. Theres some contract that the ECB have done with the BCCI thats allowing all our players to stay for the duration, Vaughan told Cricbuzz. Archers absence has attracted attention, given his record in red-ball cricket, particularly at Lords, where he has previously delivered some of his most memorable performances for England. Vaughan argued that central contracts should carry more weight when national commitments are involved. If thats the case, I have a problem with Englands contracts because Jofra has been looked after by them for a few years now on a very handsome contract. So who holds the key to that? I believe the international contract outweighs any franchise, Vaughan added. The former skipper stressed that he is not against franchise leagues, acknowledging the opportunities they create for players around the world. However, he warned that international cricket risks losing its priority if boards continue allowing scheduling conflicts of this nature. Look, all these franchise leagues are fantastic. I love them for the players. But I do feel that if we start to put domestic leagues over and above a Test match, I think theres a real problem now, he stated. Vaughan also pointed to the difficult balancing act players face when bilateral schedules collide with lucrative T20 competitions. According to him, the ECB must establish clearer priorities regarding player availability. England have got to make a decision because many have spoken out about it in the last week, rightfully so, because we feel that if youre playing for England in your Test match, players should be back home playing for England. Thats what your central contract says you should be doing, he noted. He suggested that if the ECB intends to consistently permit players to complete IPL commitments, Englands domestic international calendar may need to be adjusted accordingly, saying, If there is an agreement that the ECB have done with the BCCI, well, I think youve got to start your Test summer somewhere a little bit later then. Vaughan also framed the debate from the perspective of Englands leadership group, insisting the team should want its strongest attack available from the opening game of the series. He suggested that if the ECB intends to consistently permit players to complete IPL commitments, Englands domestic international calendar may need to be adjusted accordingly, saying, If there is an agreement that the ECB have done with the BCCI, well, I think youve got to start your Test summer somewhere a little bit later then. Also Read: Live Cricket Score For Vaughan, the wider concern lies in preserving the value and standing of Test cricket amid the growing influence of franchise leagues across the calendar, as he said, We want to see our best players playing Test match cricket. Those staying, theyre continuing to play the longest format of the game. I want to see them playing for their country. Article Source: IANS

Litton and Mushfiqur keep Bangladesh on course for big lead

Bangladesh were 249 runs ahead at lunch on the third day with six second-innings wickets still intact

I Doubt He Would Want To Take Such A Risk At This Stage: Gavaskar On Dhonis Return In Chennai

Chennai Super Kings: Former India cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has cast serious doubt over the possibility of MS Dhoni making a surprise return for Chennai Super Kings in their must-win clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Monday, saying the legendary former captain would not want to take such a risk after being away from competitive cricket for more than a year. Gavaskar said CSKs clash against SRH at Chepauk carries massive importance in the playoff race, but believes Dhoni is unlikely to feature despite fans hoping to see him in the side for the final home game of the season. The match against SRH is a crucial one for CSK. It's their last home game at Chepauk, so naturally fans want to see MS Dhoni play. But he hasn't featured at all this season. In fact, he hasn't played competitive cricket for over a year. So, I doubt he would want to take such a risk at this stage, Gavaskar told JioStar. The former India captain stressed that CSK would need players who are already in rhythm and match-ready during such a crucial stage of the tournament. You need players who have been match-fit and playing regularly for the last six weeks. Dhoni is a complete team-man. I don't think he would want to disrupt the current combination. I would be very surprised if he plays against SRH. This is a must-win game for CSK. A victory keeps them alive in the playoff race. They have to win this match at all costs, and bringing in a player who hasn't played in over a year could be a gamble, he added. Wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul top-scored with a composed 56 off 42 balls as Delhi Capitals sealed a thrilling five-wicket victory over Rajasthan Royals on Sunday. Gavaskar also strongly criticised Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag for handing the ball to Donovan Ferreira during a key phase of their loss to Delhi Capitals, calling the move suicidal. Handing the ball to Donovan Ferreira to bowl the 18th over was a suicidal move. You are bringing a slow bowler on a pitch offering him no help. He was just bowling in the slot. It was his first over of the match. He had also scored a golden duck with the bat, Gavaskar said. He further questioned the timing of the decision and said RR ignored safer bowling options at a critical moment. Sometimes you must look at where the luck is going that day. If he had scored 40 or 50 runs and was high on confidence, giving him an over would have made sense. But he got out first ball, and you still gave him the ball. He went for 16 runs in that over, and the match was gone. Done and dusted. Riyan Parag could have handed the ball to a proper bowler, a regular bowler. Even if that bowler gave away 20 runs, that's not the point. The point is that at that crucial stage, giving the ball to Donovan Ferreira was a suicidal decision by Rajasthan Royals, he added. The win was built on Mitchell Starc's devastating four-wicket burst in the death overs that had earlier pegged back a marauding RR to 193/8. Gavaskar also praised Mitchell Starc for his game-changing spell in Delhi Capitals victory, particularly his impact at the death despite an expensive start with the new ball. It's not just about how many wickets you take. It's about when you take them. Wickets at key moments change the game, Gavaskar said. Mitchell Starc didn't have a great powerplay. But when he came back at the death, he bowled with great control. He didn't let the Rajasthan batters free their arms. He choked the runs and picked up crucial wickets. Those wickets turned the match in Delhi's favour. Rajasthan looked set to cross 200 easily, but Starc had other plans. They paid the price for underestimating him. His three-wicket over pushed Rajasthan all the way back. On the playoff race, Gavaskar said Punjab Kings still remain firmly in contention despite their defeat to Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Mitchell Starc didn't have a great powerplay. But when he came back at the death, he bowled with great control. He didn't let the Rajasthan batters free their arms. He choked the runs and picked up crucial wickets. Those wickets turned the match in Delhi's favour. Rajasthan looked set to cross 200 easily, but Starc had other plans. They paid the price for underestimating him. His three-wicket over pushed Rajasthan all the way back. Also Read: Live Cricket Score They lost this game against Delhi from a winnable position and if Rajasthan keep losing from winning positions, then all Punjab need to do is win their next game. That would take them to 15 points, which might be enough. Yes, Sunrisers are ahead of Punjab, and CSK can still reach 14 or even 16 points. But if CSK lose one match, then Punjab have a very real chance of qualifying. Article Source: IANS

Nahid Rana Says Taskin Ahmed Has Been Key To His Success

ICC World Test Championship: Bangladesh young pacer Nahid Rana has credited senior pacer Taskin Ahmed for playing a crucial role in his fast rise in international cricket. He said the experienced bowler has guided him like an elder brother during the early stages of his career. Rana has become one of Bangladeshs top fast-bowling prospects in recent months after a series of impressive performances in different formats. The 23-year-old had a breakthrough in April, earning the Player of the Series award in Bangladeshs ODI series win over New Zealand. He was later named ICC Mens Player of the Month. He continued that strong performance into Test cricket, taking five wickets against Pakistan in the opening Test. This helped Bangladesh secure their first win of the current ICC World Test Championship cycle. Despite his quick success since his international debut in 2024, Rana believes that Taskins support and advice have been vital to his growth. My relationship with him (Taskin) is very good. I have watched him play since I was young, and after seeing him up close, I think of him as an elder brother. He always treats me with care like a younger brother, Rana was quoted by ICC as saying. Whenever I make mistakes, he says, Rana, it will be good for you if you do these things. Since he has already gone through this phase of life and cricket, he guides me a lot. I always see him as an elder brother, and our relationship is like that. My relationship with him (Taskin) is very good. I have watched him play since I was young, and after seeing him up close, I think of him as an elder brother. He always treats me with care like a younger brother, Rana was quoted by ICC as saying. Also Read: Live Cricket Score While Taskin made early breakthroughs with the new ball, Rana created one of the key moments of the innings by dismissing former Pakistan captain Babar Azam. The young pacer also wrapped up the lower order, finishing with figures of 3/60 from 12.4 overs. This performance highlighted his growing importance in Bangladeshs pace attack. Article Source: IANS

DC's home discomforts: 'We look at this venue as an away venue'

We've many a times not been able to figure out what the surface is like, Hemang Badani says about the pitches at Delhi's Arun Jaitley Stadium

IPL 2026: Starc's Over Changed The Result, RR Were At Least 20 Runs Short, Admits Rathour

New Delhi: Rajasthan Royals lead assistant coach Vikram Rathour admitted that Mitchell Starc's devastating 15th over proved to be the turning point of their five-wicket defeat to Delhi Capitals, admitting that the visitors were at least 20 runs short of a competitive total and that poor decisions from the batters cost them the match. Rathour's candid assessment came after RR, well-placed at 160/2 at the start of the 15th over, lost four wickets in a heap to Starc, including three in an over and eventually posted only 193/8, with DC chasing it down with four balls to spare. I completely agree. We were at least 20 runs short, if not more. I thought we were 160 in 14 overs and lost two wickets. From there, we should have got 220. Again losing three wickets in one over doesn't help. So we could have been a bit smarter with our decisions we took in that over. So those are the learnings and in every game, you will make mistakes and the idea is to learn from those mistakes and I hope the next time we are in a similar situation, we get a better result. Again, that over definitely changed the result for us. Obviously he's a world class bowler. He's a world class bowler, but the kind of options we took in that over, were poor. We could have done differently and given ourselves a little more time to get through that over and take the game a little deeper, said Rathour in the post-match press conference. RR had come back to tournament action after another longish break and the result is a big setback to their hopes of entering the playoffs, as they find themselves deeper in the all-familiar second half wobble. Apart from RR batting order imploding in the last six overs and their misfields leaving head coach and director of cricket Kumar Sangakkara angry in the dugout, some of the decision making from RR was perplexing. The decision to draft in batting allrounder Dasun Shanaka as Impact Player raised eyebrows, as it meant they couldnt bring in a frontline bowler - Ravi Bishnoi or Sushant Mishra named in substitutes in the second innings. The absence of veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja further magnified the risk, considering their refurbished bowling line-up came on the back of being expensive in the last few games. After Shanaka made only ten with the bat, RR pressed him into service as the fifth bowler despite not bowling in his previous two outings. To his credit, Shanaka delivered three tidy overs and even took out DCs topscorer KL Rahul. But his limited use left RR short of flexibility in death overs bowling options. With three overs remaining, and Axar Patel and David Miller at the crease, RR turned to parttime offspinner Donovan Ferreira in the 18th over. The gamble backfired as both batters hit a maximum each in a 16run over and swung the momentum firmly in DCs favour. With those calls attracting considerable scrutiny, Rathour explained the chain of events that led to those decisions being taken in the game. The decisions that are made internally, are definitely taken by the captain. He is backing his gut and feeling at that stage. Our initial idea was to take 6 bowlers. But because we lost those wickets too quickly, we had to pick Dasun as an impact player. Otherwise, if the wickets hadn't fallen that much, we had an option to pick some bowler, especially a specialist bowler, maybe in the second innings. But unfortunately, we lost too many wickets in a cluster. So we had to take that option of picking Dasun. Again, the decisions that are made internally, are obviously taken by the captain. Obviously, there are some plans already, which are discussed outside with the analyst and the coach. But inside, at that point of the time, it's captains who take the call, he said. Rathour also acknowledged that captain Riyan Parag's hamstring niggle may have been a factor in him not opting to bowl. Parag had missed the clash against Gujarat Titans in Jaipur due to the same injury and needed treatment for it while making 51. Yes, of course (he could have bowled). But he is struggling again. Riyan is also having a niggle with his hamstring. So I am not sure how comfortable he was bowling. But it was an option, a chance he took, which didn't go our way, he said. On Jadejas absence, where Parag said load management resulted in him not playing Sundays game, Rathour said the team was being cautious with the all-rounder due to a knee niggle. He just had some niggle in his knee, I think. They are just trying to manage that. They felt that if we give him one more game break, it will be good for him. That was the reason he was rested. He is just dealing with some niggle. Before it all unravelled for RR, they were in control for the first 14 overs and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi treated fans to well-timed and powerful boundaries in his 21-ball 46, before falling to a slower delivery from Madhav Tiwari. With him struggling against slower deliveries and being dismissed off it before, Rathour denied on it being a chink in the teenaged openers armour. See, nobody is perfect in this world. Everybody will have some weakness here and there. I don't think slow ball is a weakness with Vaibhav. I will want bowlers to try that. On a wicket like this, where the ball is gripping a bit, change of pace is good against anybody. It's not only Vaibhav - I think he's a special player and enough has been said about his ability and how good he is. So, again, he's provided us a really good start, looking at the surface again. So, I just hope he converts one inning and goes deeper. The way he's batting, the way he prepares, I'm sure that's not too far off. We'll see one of those innings which he'll really convert and play a big knock. But otherwise, we are pretty happy with the way he's batting and we want him to bat that way.Different players will bat differently. Anybody can succeed. You need to identify and know your strengths. If you back your strengths and play to your strengths, you can score runs. Dhruv need not bat like Vaibhav and Vaibhav shouldn't look to bat like Dhruv. They have their own strengths. They have their own ways of scoring runs. If they keep backing that and keep believing in their ability, they can succeed easily. You have seen that happening. Somebody like Virat, who is still extremely successful, even in this format. I wouldn't call him an out-and-out power-hitting player. That tells you that there is scope for everybody to succeed, provided you have belief in your abilities. If you can commit to whatever options you take while you are batting and back yourself, he elaborated. Despite the defeat leaving sixth-placed RR in a tight spot in the race to playoffs, Rathour insisted the side still has full belief in their ability to qualify for the last four stage, though a lot will also depend on them taking better calls tactically. Somebody like Virat, who is still extremely successful, even in this format. I wouldn't call him an out-and-out power-hitting player. That tells you that there is scope for everybody to succeed, provided you have belief in your abilities. If you can commit to whatever options you take while you are batting and back yourself, he elaborated. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Our belief is that if we are playing to our potential, we can defeat any team. That is the mindset and we need to turn up and play our best cricket. If we play, we have the belief in the group that we will win. Article Source: IANS

Badani on Starc: 'His work ethic, his preparation, his training are above par'

Air speed is equally important [as reverse swing], Sanjay Bangar says of Mitchell Starc's three-wicket over against Rajasthan Royals

IPL 2026: DC Were Unable To Figure Out What The Surfaces At Home Were Like, Admits Badani

Arun Jaitley Stadium: Delhi Capitals head coach Hemang Badani has conceded that the pitches at their home venue Arun Jaitley Stadium consistently worked against his team's strengths, saying the side were unable to figure out the nature of surfaces at their home ground through much of the IPL 2026 season. Though DC enthralled 31,200 fans with a five-wicket victory over Rajasthan Royals, they managed to get only two wins from seven home matches this season. Its something which also proved to be their undoing in the 2025 edition of the competition, where they got only one win out of five games in New Delhi. I think if you go back and see, if you are able to break the season into two halves about whats happened at home and whats happened away, we have had four wins in six games away and we have primarily struggled at home. We have literally had our second win at home this year and if I had to speak of whats happened from last year, we have had five at this venue plus we have had seven now, which is 12 games and we have only had three wins and one of them being a Super Over. That pretty much tells you how the surface has been for us. It hasnt been conducive to our style of play. We've, at many times, not been able to figure out what the surface is like. That's the reason why you see those results and those numbers, Badani told reporters after DC's five-wicket win over Rajasthan Royals. He also used Sundays game as an example of how DC had to adapt on the fly to close their home leg on a high. Speaking of this game, I think even if you look at their innings, they were 160 for two, and then they hardly got runs in the end. I think they got about 33 in the last six and picked up eight wickets. The same happened to us where we slowed down a little bit. But we were cautious because we had a scoreboard available to us. They had to set a target. We were just looking to create the game, because the ball was starting to do reverse and holding a bit on the surface. It wasn't easy to bat once the ball got older. Hence, we've said, take the game deep, go hard at the top, but take the game deep in the end. Highlighting the complicated relationship with their home venue, where their loss percentage stands an inexplicable 71.4 percent, Badani further talked about how the DC camp has even stopped talking about how conditions at Kotla would pan out, just like how Axar Patel said during toss time. Literally the same with me. We've stopped discussing the surface. We play this venue as another venue. You generally would ideally look at the grass that's available on the surface, the texture and color of the surface. But each time we've turned up here, we've got something very different. So, it is what it is. We accept it and we move on. It should at least be where you know what youre expecting. Here we didnt know what this surface was going to do to us. One match were out on 60, another on 150, another on 260. So we dont know how to consistently play pitch No. 4, No. 5, No. 6. Weve played on three surfaces and if you look at the numbers of all three, youll think its 19-20. So that is difficult for you to prepare. We know that if pitch No. 5 is a 180 pitch, pitch No. 6 is a 200 pitch, pitch No. 4 is a 250 pitch, then you structure the side accordingly. You structure your 11 and 12 accordingly. But here, its just going on and we had stopped discussing the surface. We play this venue as an away venue. You generally would ideally look at the grass thats available on the surface, the texture of the surface, the colour of the surface, but each time weve turned up here weve got something very different, elaborated Badani. Sundays game was also an instance of bowling and batting performances clicking collectively for DC, who still have a very small chance of entering the playoffs. Mitchell Starcs four-fer was complemented by the opening pair of KL Rahul and Abishek Porel showcasing glittering strokeplay to be 72/0 in power-play - DC's best batting powerplay returns in the season. Eventually, Rahul and Potel had a superb 105-run opening partnership, making it DCs second 100-plus opening stand of the season. Co-incidentally, both century-plus stands of DCs opening pair have come against RR. On DC frequently rotating opening combinations through the season, where they also tried Pathum Nissanka and Sahil Parakh, Badani said decisions of that nature always appeared far easier in hindsight than they were at the time of making. I think the way I see it is, hindsight is a beautiful thing. To think of everything once everything is done, its like wow, its like Eureka, we know whats happening. But youre obviously trying to figure out something to start with. If you go back to our season in 2025, our issues were up top. On DC frequently rotating opening combinations through the season, where they also tried Pathum Nissanka and Sahil Parakh, Badani said decisions of that nature always appeared far easier in hindsight than they were at the time of making. Also Read: Live Cricket Score But I would ideally say that Pathum did give us something. Hes given us 40s, 50s, 60s. Yes, I could be greedy and say maybe Pathum could have given me a game of 80 or 100, but I think hes not done badly. Its more the case now with Abishek Porel giving us a 100 partnership, which has happened later through the season. But this is a very easy conversation to have right now. So it is what it is. We accept it and we move on, he concluded. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Starc Is One Of The Best Role Models In The Sport, Says DC Coach Badani

Impact Player Dasun Shanaka: Delhi Capitals head coach Hemang Badani has termed Mitchell Starc as one of the best role models in cricket, saying the Australian left-arm fast bowler's influence on younger players in the dressing room is as valuable as his match-winning performances on the field. Badani's tribute came on the back of Starc picking a devastating four-wicket haul that wrecked RRs' innings in the death overs and set the base for DC to clinch a five-wicket victory at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Sunday night. Despite being well-placed at 160/2 in 14 overs, RR fell seven runs short of touching 200, thanks to Starcs mastery slicing through their batting order and leaving them with no ammunition for a blazing finishing touch, as only 33 runs came off the final six overs. I think Mitch is somebody, I don't even know where to start. I think he's possibly one of the best role models anyone can have in sport. His work ethic to himself, his preparation before the game, with his own plans and his training is above par. I don't even see that with a lot of the younger boys. That's the reason why he's sustained for so long. If you go back and see the recent Ashes series, he single-handedly won them the Ashes. There was no Pat Cummins, there was no Josh Hazlewood. That pretty much tells you what that man can do, Badani said in the post-match press conference. On a pitch providing slight grip and used previously when Punjab Kings hunted down 265 last month, Starc endured a costly start, conceding 28 runs without success in his first two overs. But when skipper Axar Patel brought him back to bowl the 15th over, Starc turned the tide in dramatic fashion, giving away just 12 runs while claiming four wickets in his final two overs to dismantle RR. What really changed was Starc making subtle changes in pace, using more of slower balls, including some of them reversing a little, and combined with his pin-point accuracy, he becomes a bowler whos really hard to be dispatched to boundary ropes. Starc first removed Riyan Parag, who hit his fastest IPL fifty, with a slower ball which he mistimed to long-on. Donovan Ferreira was out for a duck on the very next delivery, again caught at long-on - though it was off a pace-on delivery. After Ravi Singh flicked the hat-trick ball for four, Starc bowled another slower ball to trap him lbw, which DRS also confirmed. Starc then picked out Impact Player Dasun Shanaka with a low full toss at 142 kmph coming from around the wicket to complete his fourwicket haul and derail RRs batting machinery by producing the best figures for any DC bowler this season. Speaking of the kind of work that he puts in with the younger lads, he's always talking to them, he's always trying to pass on the knowledge, how can you do reverse swing, how do I hold lengths, what do I do when a certain batter is going hard, do I look to pick wickets, do I look to try and be submissive and be defensive. There's immense conversation that Starcy brings to the table. I think, as I said earlier, being slightly repetitive, massive role model, added Badani. Sundays game wasnt the first time Starc repeatedly tilted contests against RR in DCs favour. On May 1 in Jaipur, the leftarm pacer marked his return to IPL 2026 with figures of 3-40. His influence was even more telling in last seasons encounter in New Delhi, where he nailed his yorkers and secured an unlikely victory for DC in the Super Over. Lamenting Starc's absence for a significant portion of the season due to shoulder and elbow injuries, Badani said the situation was such that no franchise coach had any real power to change. Ideally, I would want my players to be available to me from day one. Starc is probably one of my biggest players in my squad, and we've invested in him, and we know that he's a match winner. But if there are certain things which are above my pay grade, and then certain things that are decided by associations and governing bodies, there's very little that we can do. Because if Cricket Australia does not release him, which was also the case with Hazlewood and Pat Cummins, there's little a coach or any franchise can do about that. Hopefully we have a solution to it in the future, he added. Badani also made a special mention of seam-bowling all-rounder Madhav Tiwari, who foxed Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Shubham Dubey with slower balls. Tiwaris inclusion came in Dharamshala, where he shined with both bat and ball as DCs bid to inject fresh blood paid off in a win. I think if I remember correctly about what was spoken of him was that he was somebody who liked the pressure, somebody who could bat, hit a long ball, and at the same time, somebody who could bowl through all three phases. If required, he could even bowl in the power play, which you haven't seen much of it yet. Badani also made a special mention of seam-bowling all-rounder Madhav Tiwari, who foxed Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Shubham Dubey with slower balls. Tiwaris inclusion came in Dharamshala, where he shined with both bat and ball as DCs bid to inject fresh blood paid off in a win. Also Read: Live Cricket Score We just felt that we needed fresh minds, fresh legs. A couple of our senior players, unfortunately, haven't had the run that they would have. We would have ideally liked them to have. Hence we felt that it's maybe time for us to try and switch to the younger boys and we've been blessed with a couple of good wins, he concluded. Article Source: IANS

Bhuvneshwar stretches Purple Cap lead; Kohli, Rahul move up on Orange Cap table

It was a day with two matches at IPL 2026, and that meant some of the star performers of the season made big moves up the Orange and Purple Cap tables

Mahmudul Hasan Joy Fifty Puts Bangladesh in Control Against Pakistan in 2nd Test

Opener Mahmudul Hasan Joy struck a fluent half-century after the bowlers dominated to put Bangladesh firmly in command of the second Test against Pakistan on Sunday. Bangladesh, who lead the two-match series 1-0, closed day two on 110-3 in their second innings, leading by 156 runs in Sylhet. Joy, who fell for a duck in the first innings, responded with 52 off 64 balls before falling to pace bowler Mohammad Abbas. Tanzid Hasan fell cheaply for four off quick bowler Khurram Shahzad, who later took down Mominul Haque for 30 in the final over of the day, while captain Najmul Hossain Shanto remained unbeaten on 13. Earlier, left-arm spinner Taijul Islam and speedster Nahid Rana took three wickets each to bowl Pakistan out for 232, giving Bangladesh a 46-run first innings lead. Babar Azam's 68, which included 10 fours, was the only significant resistance from the visitors. Pace spearhead Taskin Ahmed removed overnight openers Abdullah Fazal and Azan Awais early and spinner Mehidy Hasan Miraz dismissed skipper Shan Masood and Saud Shakeel before lunch. Rana and Taijul shared the remaining six wickets in the afternoon session. Pakistan's Azam acknowledged the damage done by his dismissal. The turning point is my wicket and Salman Ali Agha's wicket -- after that we did not build any partnerships. These two dismissals changed the momentum, said Azam. Rana, who has now dismissed Azam three times in three Test matches, said any opposition hostility at him would be at their own peril. I don't know if they will think twice about bowling bouncers at me but I can say this much -- if anyone bounces me, I will not let them off easily, the 23-year-old Rana said. Rana was also bullish about Bangladesh's prospects heading into day three. There is no specific target like 200, 250 or 300. We have a lot of time -- three days still remain. We will try to bat the full day tomorrow, he said. Bangladesh's dominant position was built on Litton Das's extraordinary rescue act on Saturday. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Walking in at 106-4 -- a position that deteriorated to 116-6, Litton struck 16 fours and two sixes in his 126 to steer Bangladesh to 278 all out.

Parag: 'If we keep playing like this, we shouldn't be in contention for top four'

Rajasthan Royals suffered their third successive defeat, and find themselves sixth with two games left

Axar, Ashutosh, Starc keep Delhi Capitals' playoffs hopes alive

RR looked set for a 220 total at one point but Starc's three wickets in the 15th over derailed them

IPL 2026: Starc, Rahul, Porel, Ashutosh Keep DC's Playoffs Hopes Alive With Five-wicket Win Over RR (ld)

Impact Player Dasun Shanaka: Wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul top-scored with a composed 56 off 42 balls as Delhi Capitals sealed a thrilling five-wicket victory over Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium here on Sunday. The win was built on Mitchell Starc's devastating four-wicket burst in the death overs that had earlier pegged back a marauding RR to 193/8. Rahul anchored the chase with his characteristic calmness, while sharing a key 105-run partnership with Abishek Porel, who hit 51 off 31 balls. Ashutosh Sharma then stepped in late as the impact player to steer DC home via an unbeaten five-ball 18, as it proved to be a tense, see-saw contest that swung repeatedly before the hosts finally held their nerve. By completing the chase with four balls to spare, DC signed off from their home fixtures on a high, as they climbed from eighth to seventh place in the IPL 2026 standings and kept their slim playoff hopes alive. It was a contest that swung repeatedly - RR blazing to 160/2 before losing six wickets for 33 in the last six overs, DC cruising to 130/2 before their own wobble in the middle. Eventually, the hosts finally held their nerve in a finish that had the Arun Jaitley crowd on the edge of their seats till the very last over. Starc had been profligate in his opening two overs, leaking 28 runs, but returned to rip through RR's middle and lower order in his final two, conceding just 12 more while claiming all four wickets. Slower balls, changed pace, varied angles - the Australian left-armer used every weapon in his armoury to trigger a collapse that left RR well short of the 220-plus total they had threatened. Before Starcs squeeze, it was Riyan Parag who seized the moment when RR needed it most, walking in after Vaibhav Sooryavanshi enthralled 31, 200 fans by hitting a blistering 21-ball 46. After Sooryavanshi fell, Parag needed no time to settle in and was right on the money from the get-go. In the first 19 balls he faced, he hit five sixes and a four off Axar Patel and Mukesh Kumar in a spell of clean, muscular hitting that left the DC bowling attack rattled. But before Parag took centre stage via his 51 and Dhurv Jurel smashed 53, it was Vaibhav Sooryavanshi who set the tone. The teenage opener began by pulling Ngidi over deep square-leg for a six. From the other end, Yashasvi Jaiswal got off to a flying start by hitting Mitchell Starc for three boundaries in the opening over, with a crisp cover drive being the standout stroke. Though Jaiswal eventually fell to Ngidi - a sharp outside edge off a slower ball pouched by the tall Starc at short third man, Sooryavanshi cut loose by edging and pulling him for a four and six, before carting debutant off-spin bowling all-rounder Tripurana Vijay for back-to-back fours through cover region and swivelling him for another maximum. It also helped RR that DC were sloppy in catching Dhruv Jurel was given an early reprieve by KL Rahul, while Sameer Rizvi dropped a chance of Sooryavanshi at long-on. When Parag was on six, a short ball looped to Tristan Stubbs at long-on, who appeared to complete the catch running to his left. But replays showed his fingers were not beneath the ball as it grazed the ground, giving Parag a lucky reprieve. Jurel found his boundary-hitting rhythm by clobbering an erratic Mukesh Kumar for two fours and a six in the last over of power-play, as 17 runs came off it. Madhav Tiwaris introduction worked wonders for DC as Sooryavanshi couldnt pick the slower ball and was caught by diving long-on. At 92/2 in eight overs, Parag made his intentions clear to go after the DC bowlers. He hit Axar over midwicket and then launched him way beyond long-on to pick a brace of sixes. In the next over, he went berserk against Mukesh a pull over deep mid-wicket was followed by an uppish smash over extra cover for four, before using his strong forearms to pummel the pacer over long-on for consecutive maximums. After Jurel hit Tiwari for two fours to bring up RRs 150 in 13 overs, Parah brought up his fifty off 23 balls and got a bear hug from Jurel. But after that, DC clawed back in the 15th over - Starc first deceived Parag with a slower ball and the batter only managed a toeend to diving long-on. Starc struck again when Donovan Ferreira mistimed a heave to long-on and fell for a golden duck, before debutant Ravi Singh was trapped plumb lbw with a slower delivery, as RR burnt a review. RRs horrible wobble continued - Tiwari had Shubham Dubey mistiming a heave to deep backward square leg, while Starc forced Impact Player Dasun Shanaka to slice to long-off, and Jurel, after reaching his fourth fifty of the season, was trapped lbw by a slower ball from Ngidi, as DC applied the choke on RR. Chasing 194, Rahul had not even settled at the crease when fortune intervened, as Yash Raj Punja dropped him at short fine leg off Jofra Archer, apart from an overthrow giving DC four extra runs. Keeping all that aside, Rahul and Porel set about dismantling the RR bowling attack with a combination of audacity and intent, as DC reached fifty in just four overs. Porel, the aggressor from the outset, drove and whipped Archer for a four and six, before ramping, cutting, pulling, and punching Brijesh Sharma for four boundaries. Rahul, meanwhile, was doing what he does best - rotating strike and hitting boundaries off loose balls with surgical precision. When Adam Milne dropped short in the fifth over, he rocked back and smoked a pull flat over deep mid-wicket for six. The hundred of the opening pair DCs second 100-plus opening stand of IPL 2026 and both coming versus RR - arrived in the ninth over when Rahul pumped Punja straight over the sight screen for six. Porel brought up his fifty off 30 balls before holing out to long-on off a slower ball from Brijesh in the 11th over, even as an unperturbed Rahul reached his fifty in the 12th over off 34 balls. RRs move to bring back Archer for his third over worked well when he drew a rash drive from Sahil Parakh, and a thick outside edge was comfortably caught by Dhruv Jurel. Dasun Shanaka dealt a huge blow to DC when Rahul attempted to punch off his slower delivery, but chopped on to his stumps without any footwork. The pressure of asking rate going past ten brought out sloppy misfields from RR, but it consumed Tristan Stubbs, who shaped for a pre-mediated scoop, but was caught by a sprinting deep backward square leg. But some respite came for DC Axar Patel sliced Archer for four, followed by him and David Miller lofting Donovan Ferreira for a six each. With 19 runs needed off 12 balls, a twist came when Miller pulled to deep mid-wicket off a slower ball from Brijesh. But with ones and twos coming in, including a wide, Ashutosh diffused tension by heaving Brijesh for six, before RR missed a run-out chance. With seven runs needed off the final over, RR were charged with an over-rate penalty, and as they were allowed only four fielders outside the 30-yard circle, Ashutosh drove Milne down the ground for four, before pulling over deep mid-wicket for six to seal the chase in style for DC. With 19 runs needed off 12 balls, a twist came when Miller pulled to deep mid-wicket off a slower ball from Brijesh. But with ones and twos coming in, including a wide, Ashutosh diffused tension by heaving Brijesh for six, before RR missed a run-out chance. Also Read: Live Cricket Score --IANS Article Source: IANS

Bamber battles for Bears but Glamorgan remain in charge

Ingram's unbeaten 80 papers over top-order collapse as visitors seek to drive home advantage

Hill four-for forces Surrey follow-on before Brook shines with ball

Jamie Smith bowled by his England team-mate as Yorkshire take strong grip on game

Hughes stays fluent as Sussex pray for rain

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IPL 2026: Rahul, Porel, Ashutosh Help DC Hunt Down 194, Beat RR By Five Wickets

Indian Premier League: Wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul top-scored with a composed 56 off 42 balls as Delhi Capitals sealed a thrilling five-wicket victory over Rajasthan Royals at the Arun Jaitley Stadium here on Sunday. The win has lifted DC from eighth to seventh place in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 standings, as they signed off from their home fixtures in IPL 2026 on a high. After Mitchell Starcs 4-40 kept a marauding RR to 193/8, Rahul anchored the chase with his characteristic calmness, while sharing a key 105-run partnership with Abishek Porel, who hit 51 off 31 balls. Ashutosh Sharma then stepped in late as the impact player to steer DC home via an unbeaten five-ball 18, as it proved to be a tense, see-saw contest that swung repeatedly before the hosts finally held their nerve and completed the chase with four balls to spare, and kept their slim playoffs hopes alive. Chasing 194, Rahul had not even settled at the crease when fortune intervened, as Yash Raj Punja dropped him at short fine leg off Jofra Archer, apart from an overthrow giving DC four extra runs. Keeping all that aside, Rahul and Porel set about dismantling the RR bowling attack with a combination of audacity and intent, as DC reached fifty in just four overs. Porel, the aggressor from the outset, drove and whipped Archer for a four and six, before ramping, cutting, pulling, and punching Brijesh Sharma for four boundaries. Rahul, meanwhile, was doing what he does best - rotating strike and hitting boundaries off loose balls with surgical precision. When Adam Milne dropped short in the fifth over, he rocked back and smoked a pull flat over deep mid-wicket for six. The hundred of the opening pair DCs second 100-plus opening stand of IPL 2026 and both coming versus RR - arrived in the ninth over when Rahul pumped Punja straight over the sight screen for six. Porel brought up his fifty off 30 balls before holing out to long-on off a slower ball from Brijesh in the 11th over, even as an unperturbed Rahul reached his fifty in the 12th over off 34 balls. RRs move to bring back Archer for his third over worked well when he drew a rash drive from Sahil Parakh, and a thick outside edge was comfortably caught by Dhruv Jurel. Dasun Shanaka dealt a huge blow to DC when Rahul attempted to punch off his slower delivery, but chopped on to his stumps without any footwork. The pressure of the asking rate going past ten brought out sloppy misfields from RR, but it consumed Tristan Stubbs, who shaped for a pre-mediated scoop, but was caught by a sprinting deep backward square leg. But some respite came for DC Axar Patel sliced Archer for four, followed by him and David Miller lofting Donovan Ferreira for a six each. With 19 runs needed off 12 balls, a twist came when Miller pulled to deep mid-wicket off a slower ball from Brijesh. But with ones and twos coming in, including a wide, Ashutosh diffused tension by heaving Brijesh for six, before RR missed a run-out chance. With seven runs needed off the final over, RR were charged with an over-rate penalty, and as they were allowed only four fielders outside the 30-yard circle, Ashutosh drove Milne down the ground for four, before pulling over deep mid-wicket for six to seal the chase in style for DC. With 19 runs needed off 12 balls, a twist came when Miller pulled to deep mid-wicket off a slower ball from Brijesh. But with ones and twos coming in, including a wide, Ashutosh diffused tension by heaving Brijesh for six, before RR missed a run-out chance. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Rajasthan Royals 193/8 in 20 overs (Dhruv Kurel 53, Riyan Parag 51; Mitchell Starc 4-40, Lungi Ngidi 2-24) lost to Delhi Capitals 197/5 in 19.2 overs (KL Rahul 56, Abishek Porel 51; Jofra Archer 2-35, Brijesh Sharma 2-44) by five wickets Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: It's Frustrating, But There's Still Hope, Says PBKS's James Hopes After RCB Defeat

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: A sixth successive defeat after six wins and one abandoned match has left Punjab Kings in a dire situation in the Indian Premier League as they go through a terrible run of defeats, but Fast bowling coach James Hopes said there's still hope and they need to turn it around in their last match. Punjab Kings are on 13 points from 13 matches and could have done their chances a world of good if they had defeated Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Sunday. However, they lost by 23 runs chasing a massive total of 223. Yeah, it's frustrating, to be honest. Yeah, we are staring it (elimination) in the face now. There's still hope, but we need to turn it around. We need to tidy up some areas, said Hopes in the post-match press conference on Sunday. Talking about Sunday's match against RCB, Hopes said they were always chasing their tail in the match. Today, once again, I felt like we were always chasing our tail, with the ball, not creating enough opportunities early. We controlled the Power-play pretty well, but every time we'd get back the momentum, they'd have a big over, they'd get back on top. And then in the chase, we sort of got going, but then, yeah, it just petered out, said Hopes. The PBKS fast bowling coach said they lost too many wickets early on. We lost too many wickets early, but it was just...Tonight's game, the way we lost was less frustrating than the other games, to be honest. But, yeah, it was just another disappointing night. He disagreed with the notion that, because of the high-scoring wins in the first half of the tournament, PBKS have gone into defensive mode and are finding it difficult to come out of it. He admitted they missed a few opportunities in the field and though they gave away 20-odd extra runs, allowing RCB to put up a challenging total. About the road ahead for them, the Aussie bowling coach said, Defending a massive total of 222/4, RCB produced a disciplined bowling effort led by Rasikh Salam Dar, who claimed three wickets, to restrict Punjab Kings to 199/8 despite a fighting half-century from Shashank Singh. The victory helped RCB move to 18 points from 13 matches and secure a place in the playoffs. We have a week now where, hopefully, a few results go our way, and we're playing again in the finals next weekend. But the boys have got to regroup, and they've got to stay positive, and they've got to believe, if we have an opportunity to make the finals, that we can make some noise if we get in there. About the road ahead for them, the Aussie bowling coach said, Defending a massive total of 222/4, RCB produced a disciplined bowling effort led by Rasikh Salam Dar, who claimed three wickets, to restrict Punjab Kings to 199/8 despite a fighting half-century from Shashank Singh. The victory helped RCB move to 18 points from 13 matches and secure a place in the playoffs. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Defending a massive total of 222/4, RCB produced a disciplined bowling effort led by Rasikh Salam Dar, who claimed three wickets, to restrict Punjab Kings to 199/8 despite a fighting half-century from Shashank Singh. The victory helped RCB move to 18 points from 13 matches and secure a place in the playoffs. Article Source: IANS

Coughlin cuts loose for Lancashire as draw beckons

Southport lit up by 36-ball fifty but stalemate beckons after time lost to rain

Sonny Baker marks Test call with five-for but Hampshire still in trouble

Home side lose four second-innings wickets to lead by just 67, despite fightback with ball

Du Plooy, Falconer hold up Derbyshire's victory push

Century stand from fourth-wicket pair moves Middlesex into credit but hopes of saving game remain slim

Stokes makes do with net practice as rain prevents play at Beckenham

Water under the covers leaves England captain waiting on time in the middle

CSK's playoff hopes on the line against SRH in Chennai

The match is also Dhoni's last chance of playing at Chepauk in IPL 2026

IPL 2026: The Wicket Was Gripping, Thought I Can Use More Of Slower Balls, Says DC's Madhav Tiwari

Impact Player Dasun Shanaka: Young seam-bowling all-rounder Madhav Tiwari credited the gripping nature of the wicket for his success with slower balls, as Delhi Capitals pulled off a stirring fightback with the ball to keep Rajasthan Royals to 193/8 in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi on Sunday. At 160/2 after 14 overs, the Royals appeared set for a massive total. But the momentum shifted after a brief stoppage for medical attention to Riyan Parag, who hit a 23-ball fifty. Axar Patel recalled Starc, who had gone for 28 in his first two overs, and the Australian responded with a decisive 15th over, removing Parag, Donovan Ferreira, and Ravi Singh, before taking out Impact Player Dasun Shanaka to pick 4-40. Tiwari, who impressed with both bat and ball on debut against Punjab Kings in Dharamshala, once again stood out by dismissing a marauding Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Shubham Dubey. Coming into this IPL season, I just thought that I'm gonna take in four or five variations with me and I'm gonna back them throughout the season. So, I have been working on them, and hopefully, the results are helping in my favor. Tiwari, who impressed with both bat and ball on debut against Punjab Kings in Dharamshala, once again stood out by dismissing a marauding Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Shubham Dubey. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Lungi Ngidi closed out the innings with clever variations, as RR eventually made 193/8, after losing six wickets for 33 runs in the last six overs. I don't know. I have to ask them, said Tiwari, when asked about his familys reaction, before adding that DC can chase down the target and aim to end their home leg on a high. I think we'll get it. Article Source: IANS

BCB elections to elect new president to be held on June 7

Former Bangladesh captain Tamim Iqbal is the current BCB president

IPL 2026: Starcs Four-fer Leads DCs Fightback, Keeps RR To 193/8 Despite Fifties From Jurel, Parag

Impact Player Dasun Shanaka: Mitchell Starc turned the match on its head with a devastating four-wicket burst in the death overs as Delhi Capitals restricted Rajasthan Royals to 193/8 in 20 overs at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Sunday, despite half-centuries from Dhruv Jurel and skipper Riyan Parag threatening to get the game in favour of the hosts. Starc had leaked 28 runs in his first two overs, but returned to rip through the RR middle and lower order in his final two overs - conceding just 12 more runs while claiming all four wickets - to trigger a stunning collapse that saw RR lose six wickets for 33 runs in the last six overs after appearing set for a posting a total well above 220. At 160/2 in the 14th over, RR were seemingly cruising with Parag hitting 51 - his fastest in the IPL. But Starc used slower balls well, changed his pace and angles with accuracy, and coupled with Lungi Ngidis pace-off balls meant RR fell in a heap, despite Jurel hitting 53, as DC clawed their way back into the contest. Before Starcs squeeze, it was Parag who seized the moment when RR needed it most, walking in after Vaibhav Sooryavanshi enthralled 31, 200 fans by hitting a blistering 21-ball 46. After Sooryavanshi fell, Parag needed no time to settle in and was right on the money from the get-go. In the first 19 balls he faced, he hit five sixes and a four off Axar Patel and Mukesh Kumar in a spell of clean, muscular hitting that left the DC bowling attack rattled. But before Parag took centre stage, it was Sooryavanshi who set the tone. The teenage opener began by pulling Ngidi over deep square-leg for a six. From the other end, Yashasvi Jaiswal got off to a flying start by hitting Mitchell Starc for three boundaries in the opening over, with a crisp cover drive being the standout stroke. Though Jaiswal eventually fell to Ngidi - a sharp outside edge off a slower ball pouched by the tall Starc at short third man, Sooryavanshi cut loose by edging and pulling him for a four and six, before carting debutant off-spin bowling all-rounder Tripurana Vijay for back-to-back fours through cover region and swivelling him for another maximum. It also helped RR that DC were sloppy in catching Dhruv Jurel was given an early reprieve by KL Rahul, while Sameer Rizvi dropped a chance of Sooryavanshi at long-on. When Parag was on six, a short ball looped to Tristan Stubbs at long-on, who appeared to complete the catch running to his left. But replays showed his fingers were not beneath the ball as it grazed the ground, giving Parag a lucky reprieve. Jurel found his boundary-hitting rhythm by clobbering an erratic Mukesh Kumar for two fours and a six in the last over of power-play, as 17 runs came off it. Madhav Tiwaris introduction worked wonders for DC as Sooryavanshi couldnt pick the slower ball and was caught by diving long-on. At 92/2 in eight overs, Parag made his intentions clear to go after the DC bowlers. He hit Axar over midwicket and then launched him way beyond long-on to pick a brace of sixes. In the next over, he went berserk against Mukesh a pull over deep mid-wicket was followed by an uppish smash over extra cover for four, before using his strong forearms to pummel the pacer over long-on for consecutive maximums. After Jurel hit Tiwari for two fours to bring up RRs 150 in 13 overs, Parah brought up his fifty off 23 balls and got a bear hug from Jurel. But after that, DC clawed back in the 15th over - Starc first deceived Parag with a slower ball and the batter only managed a toeend to diving long-on. Starc struck again when Donovan Ferreira mistimed a heave to long-on and fell for a golden duck, before debutant Ravi Singh was trapped plumb lbw with a slower delivery, as RR burnt a review. RRs horrible wobble continued - Tiwari had Shubham Dubey mistiming a heave to deep backward square leg, while Starc forced Impact Player Dasun Shanaka to slice to long-off, and Jurel, after reaching his fourth fifty of the season, was trapped lbw by a slower ball from Ngidi, as DC applied the choke on RR. Starc struck again when Donovan Ferreira mistimed a heave to long-on and fell for a golden duck, before debutant Ravi Singh was trapped plumb lbw with a slower delivery, as RR burnt a review. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Rajasthan Royals 193/8 in 20 overs (Dhruv Jurel 53, Riyan Parag 51; Mitchell Starc 4-40, Lungi Ngidi 2-24) against Delhi Capitals Article Source: IANS

Venkatesh Iyer: 'I'd lie if I say I was not frustrated'

He scored an unbeaten 40-ball 73 against PBKS as RCB became the first team to secure their playoffs spot

Indian Men Win Silver, Women Finish Fourth At Inaugural CASA Rugby 7s 2026

Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium: Indias senior mens team secured the silver medal while the senior womens team finished fourth in the inaugural CASA Rugby 7s 2026 held in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, marking a positive start to the international season for Rugby India. RCB produced a dominant all-round performance at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium on Sunday, posting a massive 222/4 before restricting Punjab Kings to 199/8 despite a late fightback from Shashank Singh and Marcus Stoinis. Jitesh, who led the side in the absence of regular captain Rajat Patidar, said the team always felt in control because they had a clear idea of how the pitch was behaving after batting first. We were not under pressure, frankly speaking. We were in control. We know what we want to do on this wicket because we batted on that, and the batters had given very good feedback on what was working on that wicket, Jitesh said after the match. RCBs batting unit laid the foundation for the victory through Virat Kohlis 58, Devdutt Padikkals quickfire 45, and an unbeaten 73 from Venkatesh Iyer. The side accelerated strongly in the second half of the innings to cross the 220-run mark. Jitesh explained that the team used the information from the first innings to plan specifically against Punjab Kings key batters and execute accordingly with the ball. So we planned particularly for particular batsmen, and we were executing that properly, he added. Jitesh also credited the experienced players in the RCB squad for supporting him during his captaincy stint and said it had been a valuable learning experience. We are privileged that they are playing for RCB, and with that, I have so many senior players to guide me in the centre when Im doing captaincy for those bowlers. I think thats great. Its a great experience to play with those boys, he said. The wicketkeeper-batter confirmed that Rajat Patidar is expected to return as captain for the next game, while reiterating that RCBs focus remains on taking one match at a time despite sealing a playoff berth. My actual skipper is doing really well. Hes going to captain the next game. I think our RCB motto is very simple, one game at a time, he said. We are not thinking ahead or anything. We just want to play our best cricket in every match, thats it, he added. My actual skipper is doing really well. Hes going to captain the next game. I think our RCB motto is very simple, one game at a time, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Although Shashank Singh smashed a rapid 56 off 27 deliveries and Marcus Stoinis contributed 37 off 25 balls, RCBs bowlers held their nerve in the closing stages. Rasikh finished with three wickets, while Bhuvneshwar and Josh Hazlewood delivered crucial breakthroughs. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: The Match Was Lost In The Powerplay, Says Iyer After PBKS's Defeat To RCB

Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium: Punjab Kings skipper Shreyas Iyer admitted that his side lost the match in the power-play after suffering a 23-run defeat against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in their IPL 2026 clash in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamshala on Sunday. Chasing a massive target of 223, Punjab Kings were rocked early as Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh, and Shreyas himself were dismissed cheaply inside the first three overs. The early collapse left the hosts struggling at 19/3, making the chase difficult despite a spirited fightback later in the innings. Obviously, they got off to a great start and then started taking on the bowlers right after the power play. I think getting to 222 was a commendable performance, and we werent able to take wickets in the bowling that much, but yeah, I think the match was lost in the powerplay, Iyer said after the game. Punjab Kings eventually finished at 199/8 despite aggressive knocks from Shashank Singh and Marcus Stoinis. Shashank smashed 56 off just 27 deliveries while Stoinis contributed 37 off 25 balls, but the required run rate proved too steep after the early damage. Reflecting on the difficult chase, Shreyas pointed to the absence of strong starts from openers Arya and Prabhsimran, both of whom had been among the teams most consistent performers this season. Absolutely. We were three down, and the majority of our run scorers were Prabhsimran and Priyansh. The starts they used to give us in the power play, obviously, we couldnt get this time, and also me coming in and getting out early, he said. Really disappointed, but commendable performance by Shashank and Stoinis, and also a few others in the middle. I think we were up there with almost 10 and over, but yeah, fell short. Tremendous bowling by Bhuvi and Hazlewood, he added. Bhuvneshwar Kumar provided RCB the perfect start with two wickets in the opening overs, while Josh Hazlewood picked up important breakthroughs in the middle and death overs to stop Punjab Kings recovery. The defeat also confirmed Royal Challengers Bengaluru as the first team to qualify for the IPL 2026 playoffs, with RCB moving to 18 points from 13 matches. Despite the setback, Shreyas remained optimistic about Punjab Kings chances going forward and said he would continue to maintain a positive mindset ahead of their next game against Lucknow Super Giants. The defeat also confirmed Royal Challengers Bengaluru as the first team to qualify for the IPL 2026 playoffs, with RCB moving to 18 points from 13 matches. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With this loss, PBKS' qualification chances look very slim. They have to beat LSG in their final match and then depend on other teams' results to also go in their favour, as they can now reach a maximum of 15 points. Article Source: IANS

Venkatesh, Rasikh take RCB into IPL 2026 playoffs

PBKS in precarious position after losing their sixth game in a row

IPL 2026: We Still Want To Show What We Can Do On The Field As A Group, Says DCs Starc

Indian Premier League: Delhi Capitals left-arm pacer Mitchell Starc said the side remains determined to showcase its collective strength in the final stretch of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 league stage, even as the race to the playoffs tightens. DC are at eighth spot with 10 points from 12 games and have a slim chance to enter the playoffs if they win their remaining two league stage games, including the clash against Rajasthan Royals at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi on Sunday. I mean, as each day goes past, we get a bit more percentage of a chance of getting through, and the way the game is going at the moment, it is good for us. So, I mean, we've still got two games. We still want to show what we can do on the field here as a group. There's been a little bit of change over the last couple of games, and if that may happen again tonight and in the next game, that's it, but it's a chance for the guys to show what they can do. For the guys who have been going well, you look at KL, who has had a fantastic season with the bat, and a few guys who have come in and taken their opportunities. So, there's still plenty to play for, and it's still a great chance for these two games to perform if you come in, and as a group, you know, you never know what can happen in cricket, said Starc in a pre-match chat with the broadcasters. Starc also emphasised adaptability as the key factor for DC to do well at their home venue. Obviously, we've played them away maybe a week... or a couple of weeks ago, actually. So, I think it is probably two teams that know each other. Then it comes down to these conditions. Here in Delhi, they've changed the game on game. So, I think that's going to be the key tonight, is adapting to what's presented to us on this wicket, which is a little bit of an unknown. Your guess is as good as mine. But, if you can adjust as quickly as you can, the team that's going to do that the quickest generally takes the advantage in the game. Asked what DC did after winning over Punjab Kings in Dharamshala, Starc said, It's been a little bit of a break. We've got another one after tonight, so it's been a chance for I think a couple of guys to duck home for a night. I've noticed there's been a little bit of golf. For me, I've just been watching the golf and the footy back home, just getting the old body right for tonight. So, no, it's been a little refresher, and hopefully we're good to go tonight, he said. RR pacer Jofra Archer, meanwhile, spoke about RRs longish break in their last two matches. We had a few team bonding sessions as well, and the gap, the first gap, they just let us do whatever we wanted to do on those few days. We had some pool volleyball. We had a MasterChef. And we had a really nice dinner, actually, at one of the really historic places in Rajasthan. I've noticed there's been a little bit of golf. For me, I've just been watching the golf and the footy back home, just getting the old body right for tonight. So, no, it's been a little refresher, and hopefully we're good to go tonight, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score RR also needs to win their remaining three games to enter the playoffs, and Archer said the tournament is still wide open for anyone to enter the last four stage. Not just DC, but I think every team in the competition. It doesn't matter where they are in the table. Anybody can beat anybody. Didn't have GT losing on my radar last night either. And that kind of just shows that you can't take anyone for granted in this tournament. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: RCB Seal Playoff Berth With 23-run Victory Against Punjab Kings

Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) became the first team to qualify for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 playoffs after defeating Punjab Kings by 23 runs in a high-scoring contest at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium on Sunday. Defending a massive total of 222/4, RCB produced a disciplined bowling effort led by Rasikh Salam Dar, who claimed three wickets, to restrict Punjab Kings to 199/8 despite a fighting half-century from Shashank Singh. The victory helped RCB move to 18 points from 13 matches and secure a place in the playoffs. Punjab Kings endured a disastrous start to the chase as Bhuvneshwar Kumar removed Priyansh Arya for a duck in the opening over. The experienced pacer struck again in his next over when Prabhsimran Singh edged a good-length delivery to first slip after scoring just two runs. RCB tightened their grip further when impact substitute Rasikh Salam Dar dismissed Punjab Kings skipper Shreyas Iyer for one. With wickets falling around him, Cooper Connolly launched a counterattack alongside Suryansh Shedge. Shedge took on Josh Hazlewood with a boundary and a six, while Connolly attacked Rasikh to help Punjab Kings recover to 49/3 at the end of the Power-play. Connolly continued to play aggressively before Romario Shepherd provided the breakthrough in the eighth over. Attempting another big shot, Connolly was caught at deep square leg after scoring 37 off 22 balls, including three fours and three sixes. Shedge then stitched together a useful partnership with Marcus Stoinis as the pair rebuilt the innings with regular boundaries and sensible strike rotation. However, RCB struck again when Virat Kohli completed a sharp catch at long-off to dismiss Shedge for 35 off 22 deliveries. Punjab Kings still had hope with Stoinis at one end and Shashank Singh launching an aggressive assault at the other. Shashank changed the momentum of the chase by smashing three sixes in an over off Suyash Sharma before adding more boundaries to keep the required run rate under control. Stoinis also shifted gears and struck consecutive boundaries against Rasikh as Punjab Kings reached 146/5 after 15 overs, needing 77 runs from the final five overs. Shashank continued to fight hard and produced a stunning helicopter shot against Bhuvneshwar Kumar as the chase remained alive. However, Hazlewood delivered a crucial breakthrough in the 17th over by trapping Stoinis lbw for 37 off 25 balls. Despite losing his partner, Shashank kept attacking and completed a rapid half-century in just 22 balls. But with little support from the other end, the required rate continued to climb. RCB finally sealed the match in the final over when Rasikh dismissed Shashank, who was caught at long-on after a superb knock of 56 off 27 deliveries, featuring four boundaries and four sixes. Rasikh then picked up another wicket on the final ball as the Punjab Kings finished at 199/8. Earlier, RCB posted 222/4 riding on an unbeaten 73 from Venkatesh Iyer and Virat Kohlis 58. Devdutt Padikkal also made an important contribution with a quickfire 45. Asked to bat first, RCB managed only 17 runs in the first two overs as Kohli and Jacob Bethell took time to adjust to the conditions. Bethell struggled for timing and was eventually bowled by Harpreet Brar for 11 off seven balls. Padikkal then shifted the momentum immediately by hitting a six off his first delivery. Kohli also joined the attack as the duo mixed aggressive strokeplay with smart strike rotation to keep the scoreboard moving quickly. Their partnership helped RCB reach 61/1 at the end of the Power-play. Punjab Kings introduced Yuzvendra Chahal to slow the scoring rate, but the leg-spinner conceded 21 runs in his opening over. Kohli and Padikkal added 76 runs for the second wicket before Brar struck again, dismissing Padikkal for an entertaining 45 off 25 balls, including four boundaries and three sixes. Kohli continued to dominate and completed his fifty in just 31 deliveries. He later fell for 58 off 37 balls after being caught at deep mid-wicket off Chahal. Venkatesh Iyer then took charge in the death overs. After a slow start, he accelerated brilliantly and completed his fifty off 29 balls. The left-hander remained unbeaten on 73 off 40 deliveries, smashing eight fours and four sixes. Tim David provided late support with a quick 28 off 12 balls as RCB crossed the 220-run mark. Kohli continued to dominate and completed his fifty in just 31 deliveries. He later fell for 58 off 37 balls after being caught at deep mid-wicket off Chahal. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Royal Challengers Bengaluru 222/4 in 20 overs (Venkatesh Iyer 73*, Virat Kohli 58, Devdutt Padikkal 45; Harpreet Brar 2-35, Yuzvendra Chahal 1-42) beat Punjab Kings 199/8 in 20 overs (Shashank Singh 56, Cooper Connolly 37, Suryansh Shedge 35; Rasikh Salam Dar 3-36, Bhuvneshwar Kumar 2-38) by 23 runs. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Vijay Handed Debut As DC Elect To Bowl First Against RR, Ravi Gets Debut Cap

Indian Premier League: Delhi Capitals won the toss and elected to bowl first against Rajasthan Royals in match 62 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi on Sunday. Both DC and RR need wins, starting from Sundays clash, to keep their slim hopes of entering the playoffs alive. After winning the toss in their final home game of IPL 2026, DC skipper Axar Patel said that bowling all-rounder Tripurana Vijay makes his debut and replaces Auqib Nabi. When you win, you feel good. The atmosphere has been good even during the losses. I'm not thinking about conditions as I've gotten it wrong. We will try to bat and bowl well, no matter how the wicket behaves. You have to keep things on the field there and not carry it off the field, he said. RR captain Riyan Parag, fit again to lead the side after missing their previous clash against the Gujarat Titans due to a hamstring injury, said wicketkeeper-batter Ravi Singh makes his debut at the expense of Ravindra Jadeja, whos out due to load management, while Adam Milne also finds a place. Happy to be back first. I was pretty unsure about the wicket as well. It looks like its dry, but then weve seen the past scores and results here; chasing has been better, though it also tends to slow down a bit later on. So I was a little confused, but happy to bowl first because of that. Weve had some ups and downs in the last few games. I think we havent defended totals very well. But today gives us another opportunity to do that and hopefully get it right. So weve gone with an extra seamer today, and hopefully we can defend the total better. Almost there (on figuring the best combination). Weve had a few injuries here and there. I had to step out as well, so that hasnt helped either, he said. Sundays match is being played on pitch number six, which is the centre wicket. The square boundaries are at 63 metres each, while the straight boundary is at 73 metres. Playing XIs: Delhi Capitals: KL Rahul (wk), Abishek Porel, Sahil Parakh, Tristan Stubbs, David Miller, Axar Patel (captain), Madhav Tiwari, Tripurana Vijay, Lungi Ngidi, Mitchell Starc, and Mukesh Kumar Impact substitutes: Ashutosh Sharma, Sameer Rizvi, Vipraj Nigam, Pathum Nissanka, and Karun Nair Delhi Capitals: KL Rahul (wk), Abishek Porel, Sahil Parakh, Tristan Stubbs, David Miller, Axar Patel (captain), Madhav Tiwari, Tripurana Vijay, Lungi Ngidi, Mitchell Starc, and Mukesh Kumar Also Read: Live Cricket Score Impact substitutes: Dasun Shanaka, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Ravi Bishnoi, Sushant Mishra, and Aman Rao Article Source: IANS

DC bowl; Parag back but Jadeja out for RR

T Vijay came in for Auqib Nabi for DC; RR have brought in Ravi Singh and Adam Milne

IPL 2026: It's A Pretty Good Total, Padikkal Backs RCB Bowlers To Defend 222 Against PBKS

Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) batter Devdutt Padikkal expressed confidence in his sides bowling attack and said that the total is sufficient after RCB posted a commanding 222/4 against Punjab Kings (PBKS) in their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 clash at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamshala on Sunday. Padikkal, who played a brisk knock of 45 off 25 deliveries, said the total was competitive but stressed that the bowlers would need to execute their plans well on a surface that appeared slightly slow during the afternoon game. I think its a pretty good total, but again, like any other game, we have to bowl well and make sure that we restrict them under that, Padikkal said during the mid-innings break. RCB recovered quickly after the early dismissal of Jacob Bethell as Padikkal and Virat Kohli added 76 runs for the second wicket to put the innings back on track. While Kohli went on to score 58, Padikkal narrowly missed his half-century but ensured RCB maintained an aggressive scoring rate through the middle overs. Speaking about the nature of the Dharamshala wicket, the left-hander said the pitch was not the easiest for strokeplay early on and expected the bowlers to make use of the conditions in the second innings as well. I think you expect that in day games. It is a little bit slow, especially with the new ball. It wasnt coming on as well, but I think its important that we make use of that and make sure that our bowlers know that as well, he said. Padikkal added that the RCB bowling unit had enough experience and skill to adjust according to the surface without needing extensive instructions. Like you asked earlier, I think its a bit of a slow wicket. Its important that we make sure that we use that. We obviously have to go into the wicket a little bit more, I suppose. At the end of the day, we have really skilful bowlers. They dont need too much information from me. I think they know what to do, he added. Reflecting on his partnership with Kohli after Bethells early dismissal, Padikkal said his role during the Power-play was to build a solid stand and carry the momentum forward for the team. Again, when I go into the power play, its important that I make sure that I stitch a partnership with Virat, or Jacob, who wasnt there, and really push that momentum and take it forward for the team, he said. Reflecting on his partnership with Kohli after Bethells early dismissal, Padikkal said his role during the Power-play was to build a solid stand and carry the momentum forward for the team. Also Read: Live Cricket Score RCB eventually crossed the 220-run mark thanks to an unbeaten 73 from Venkatesh Iyer and a late cameo from Tim David, leaving Punjab Kings with a challenging target of 223. Article Source: IANS

HOPS FC Crowned IWL 2 Champions, Juba Sangha FC Secure Promotion

Karbi Anglong Sports Association Girls: HOPS FC won the Indian Womens League 2 (IWL 2) 2025-26 season, achieving a perfect record with five wins in the Final Round and nine wins overall. Juba Sangha FC finished second, earning promotion to the Indian Womens League (IWL) for the 2026-27 season. The six-team Final Round was held as a single-leg round-robin at the Padukone-Dravid Centre for Sports Excellence in Bengaluru, where HOPS finished first with 15 points. The Delhi team scored eight goals and remained defensively solid, conceding none during the final round. They had previously topped their group with four straight wins to reach the final stage. This victory marks HOPS' first IWL 2 title and signifies their return to India's top tier of women's football after last season's relegation. Juba Sangha FC, based in Delhi, finished second with 12 points after winning four of their five matches. They were the top-scoring team in the Final Round, netting 15 goals. This marks Juba Sangha's first promotion to the Indian Women's League. HOPS started their campaign with a 3-0 victory over Krida Prabodhini Pune, then beat Mumbai Knights FC 2-0, and narrowly defeated Suruchi Sangha 1-0. They continued with another close 1-0 win against Kemp FC and concluded their campaign with a 1-0 win over Juba Sangha in the final match, securing the title. Juba Sangha started their Final Round with a 3-1 win over Kemp and then secured a 5-2 victory against Krida Prabodhini Pune. Their additional wins against Mumbai Knights and Suruchi Sangha maintained their position in the race to the finish, but losing to HOPS resulted in them finishing in second place. Kemp finished third with nine points, having won three of their five matches. Krida Prabodhini Pune took fourth place with six points. Mumbai Knights ended fifth with three points, and Suruchi Sangha finished the Final Round without earning any points. Krida Prabodhinis Simran Gurung was the top scorer of the tournament with nine goals. Her teammate Sumaiyya Shaikh finished tied for second place with seven goals, sharing the position with Roshni Tigga from Suruchi Sangha and Vipanshi from Juba Sangha. Juba Sangha also recorded Nidhi scoring six goals throughout the campaign, while Bhagyashree Dalvi from Mumbai Knights and Maidangshri Narzary from Karbi Anglong Sports Association Girls Football Club (KASA FC) each scored five. Khushbu Saroj of Kemp and Juba Sanghas Kiran both scored four goals. Krida Prabodhinis Simran Gurung was the top scorer of the tournament with nine goals. Her teammate Sumaiyya Shaikh finished tied for second place with seven goals, sharing the position with Roshni Tigga from Suruchi Sangha and Vipanshi from Juba Sangha. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Sribhumi FC were the first champions in 2023-24, with Garhwal United FC securing the title last season. HOPS became the second Delhi-based team to win the IWL 2. Article Source: IANS

DC vs RR Match 62, IPL 2026: Preview, Predicted XIs, Player Tips & Match Prediction

DC vs RR Match 62 , Cricket Tips : Delhi Capitals and Rajasthan Royals are in a race to make it to the playoffs of the IPL 2026. They will be up against each other on Sunday at 7:30 PM IST at Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. This contest is very important for the survival of both teams. DC are required to win this game. A defeat at this stage will be all over for them. Axar Patel and co. will hope that they can repeat the success they had against KKR. RR have lost their last two matches. They have been inconsistent in both departments. This game can also make or break their campaign in the IPL 2026. DC vs RR: Match Details Date : May 17, 2026 (Sunday) Time : 7:30 PM IST Venue : Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi DC vs RR Live Streaming Details The live action of the DC vs RR game will be available on the Star Sports Network. Indian fans can watch the game on the Jio Hotstar app or website. DC vs RR Head-to-Head in IPL Total Matches : 31 DC : 16 RR : 15 No - Result : 00 DC vs RR: Ground Pitch Report Arun Jaitley Stadium is known for producing a batting-friendly wicket. The bounce and pace are consistent here, which will help the batters play their shots on the up. It is a high-scoring game, and we might see another 200+ total here. DC vs RR Possible XIs DC : KL Rahul (wk), Abishek Porel, Sahil Parakh, Tristan Stubbs, David Miller, Axar Patel (c), Madhav Tiwari, Mukesh Kumar, Auqib Nabi Dar, Mitchell Starc, Lungi Ngidi RR : Yashasvi Jaiswal, Dhruv Jurel (w), Riyan Parag (C), Shimron Hetmyer, Donovan Ferreira, Ravindra Jadeja, Dasun Shanaka, Jofra Archer, Tushar Deshpande, Brijesh Sharma, Sandeep Sharma DC vs RR Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter KL Rahul and Vaibhav Suryavanshi have contrasting batting styles and will be the ones to watch out for. Probable Best Bowler Lungi Ngidi and Jofra Archer are two bowlers who have been in great form this season. Today Match Prediction : DC have a better-performing bowling unit than RR. Hence, we predict Delhi Capitals to win this game. DC vs RR Match 62, IPL 2026, Today 2026 Match, DC vs RR 2026 Prediction, DC vs RR Predicted XIs, Injury Update for DC vs RR Match Also Read: Live Cricket Score Disclaimer : The predictions 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.

IPL 2026: When And Where To Watch CSK Vs SRH, Know All Details

Indian Premier League: Five-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will clash with 2016 winners Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the 63rd match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 to be played at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Monday. Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are placed at No. 6 on the points table with six wins and as many defeats from 12 matches. They are well and truly in contention to reach the playoffs despite starting the season with three consecutive losses. Ruturaj Gaikwad's team is coming to the contest after suffering a seven-wicket loss against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at Ekana Stadium. CSK needs two wins in two matches to stay alive in the competition. On the other hand, Sunrisers Hyderabad also made a strong comeback after a poor start, losing three of their first four matches. They are currently placed in third position in the points table, with seven wins from 12 matches. If they manage to win the match against CSK, their chances of qualification will increase significantly. SRH is also coming to the contest after suffering a big 87-run defeat against the Gujarat Titans at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The rivalry between CSK and SRH has seen the two teams face each other 24 times in the IPL so far. CSK have dominated the head-to-head record with 16 wins, while SRH have emerged victorious on eight occasions. There have been no tied matches or no results between the sides. Their first-ever meeting took place on April 25, 2013, with CSK winning, while the most recent clash was held on April 18, 2026, with SRH coming out on top. When: Monday, May 18, 7:30 PM IST Where: M.A. Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai Where to Watch: The CSK vs SRH match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Where: M.A. Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai Also Read: Live Cricket Score Sunrisers Hyderabad: Travis Head, Ishan Kishan, Heinrich Klaasen, Smaran Ravichandran, Abhishek Sharma, Harsh Dubey, Kamindu Mendis, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Pat Cummins (c), Eshan Malinga, Jaydev Unadkat, Harshal Patel, Salil Arora, Praful Hinge, Liam Livingstone, Shivam Mavi, Jack Edwards, Brydon Carse, Sakib Hussain, Zeeshan Ansari, Aniket Verma, Amit Kumar, Krains Fuletra Article Source: IANS

Shreyas Iyer Becomes Fifth Player To Complete 100 IPL Matches As Captain

Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium: Shreyas Iyer added another milestone to his growing leadership resume on Sunday as the Punjab Kings captain became only the fifth player in Indian Premier League history to lead a side in 100 matches. The landmark came during PBKS IPL 2026 clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium on Sunday, placing Iyer alongside some of the most decorated captains in the tournaments history. Before Iyer, only MS Dhoni, Gautam Gambhir, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma had reached the three-figure mark as IPL captains. The 31-year-old has built his captaincy record across three franchises, Delhi Capitals, Kolkata Knight Riders and PBKS, highlighting both his tactical reputation and consistent demand as a leader in the league. Iyer first took charge of Delhi Capitals in 2018 and led the franchise in 41 matches, guiding them to their maiden IPL final in 2020. He later moved to KKR, where he captained the side in 29 games between 2022 and 2024 and ended the franchises long wait for silverware by lifting the IPL title in 2024. His latest chapter with PBKS has already produced another finals appearance, making Iyer the only captain in IPL history to lead three different teams into the tournament final. Across his first 99 matches as skipper before Sundays game, Iyer had registered 56 victories, including two Super Over wins, while suffering 40 defeats. Three games ended without a result. His success rate across completed matches stands at 58.3 per cent, level with Dhoni for the best win percentage among captains in IPL history. The achievement further strengthens Iyers reputation as one of the most effective leaders of the modern IPL era, particularly given the contrasting squads and transitions he has managed across franchises. Punjabs campaign this season has mirrored that inconsistency. The team began IPL 2026 in stunning fashion, putting together a seven-match unbeaten run that included six wins and a washed-out fixture. However, momentum slipped dramatically midway through the season, with five consecutive defeats leaving their playoff hopes hanging in the balance. The achievement further strengthens Iyers reputation as one of the most effective leaders of the modern IPL era, particularly given the contrasting squads and transitions he has managed across franchises. Also Read: Live Cricket Score At the top of the all-time list remains Dhoni, who has captained in 235 IPL matches for Chennai Super Kings and Rising Pune Supergiant between 2008 and 2025. Article Source: IANS

'He Remained The Same Despite Two Ducks': Tim David Hails Kohli's Consistency

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) batter Tim David said batting stalwart Virat Kohli never looked affected by his lean patch earlier in the season, adding that the former India captains mindset and consistency continue to set the tone for the franchise ahead of their IPL 2026 clash against Punjab Kings. Kohli recently silenced criticism with a match-winning century against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the previous match after enduring a couple of low scores, but David said there was never any visible change in the veteran batters approach or confidence. To be honest, he doesnt change; you wouldnt have known that he had two ducks unless youd been watching the TV or something else. It was great for him to score a hundred, great for all of our fans to see that, and it was a match-winning performance, David told broadcasters ahead of the match. David added that RCBs strong campaign this season has been built on collective contributions rather than individual brilliance alone. Weve had so many people in our team stepping up this season. Hopefully its him again or someone else, but were feeling pretty good, he said. The Australian power-hitter also praised RCBs top order for playing fearless cricket and giving the middle-order freedom to play their roles calmly. At the top, we have some really classy players. Those guys play good cricketing shots; they make themselves feel confident to play aggressively and express themselves with the depth weve got, David said. He admitted that some of the lower middle-order batters have not always had enough time in the middle because of the consistency shown by the top-order batters. Weve certainly got guys that dont get enough batting as much as theyd want because were watching the guys put on a clinic at the top, he noted. Speaking about his own form, David said he has been pleased with the way he has been striking the ball throughout the season and is focused on delivering whenever the team requires him. To be honest, Im just looking forward most of the time. I feel like Ive been batting really well the whole season. I just want to put in performances for the team. I've been hitting the ball really well at training consistently, and hopefully when I get the chance in the middle, I can do whatever the team needs, he said. David also underlined the importance of composure and decision-making in pressure situations. To be honest, Im just looking forward most of the time. I feel like Ive been batting really well the whole season. I just want to put in performances for the team. I've been hitting the ball really well at training consistently, and hopefully when I get the chance in the middle, I can do whatever the team needs, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Meanwhile, RCB are currently placed at the top spot in the points table with 16 points in 12 matches. They will confirm their playoff birth if they beat PBKS. Article Source: IANS

PBKS opt to bowl vs Jitesh-led RCB

Romario Shepherd and Suyash Sharma were back for RCB

IPL 2026: Rajat Patidar Misses Out For RCB As PBKS Opt To Bowl

Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium: Punjab Kings (RCB) have won the toss and elected to bowl first against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the match number 61 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 played at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium on Sunday. RCB skipper Rajat Patidar is not taking part in the match, while wicketkeeper batter Jitesh Sharma is leading the side in his absence. Suyash Sharma is replacing Patidar, while Romario Shepherd replaces Jacob Duffy. Punjab Kings have made two changes in their side as Harpreet Brar and Lockie Ferguson are back in the playing XI. After winning the toss, Shreyas Iyer said We're going to bowl. I'm not going by the stats; we're clearly seeing how the games pan out. If we bat and bowl well, the toss doesn't matter. I seriously had no clue that this was my 100th game as a captain, but it feels great. It feels like a great opportunity for me to win my 100th game (as captain). The bowling has been fantastic, but there are pressure moments where you need to execute, and so you can't change the past, nor can you anticipate the future. The beauty is to stay in the moment, see the moment, and enjoy the pressure. Two changes for us (Harpreet) Brar and Lockie (Ferguson) come in, he added. While after losing the toss, RCB skipper Jitesh Sharma said, We would have loved to bowl first, but the wicket is good and should play well for 40 overs. Rajat is doing fantastic, and we should see him in Hyderabad. We are at the business end of the tournament, and Im happy with how the team is performing, both individually and as a unit. Yes, we are very pleased that the team looks so stable right now. We are giving our absolute best in every department. One win tonight secures our spot in the playoffs, so its a massive game for us. Absolutely, every game is important at this stage. This win can change the entire tablenot just for us, but for several other teams as well.. Suyash replaces Rajat and Romario replaces Duffy, he added. Punjab began their campaign in dominant fashion, winning six of their opening seven matches and emerging as one of the strongest sides in the tournament. However, their momentum has faded in recent weeks, with Shreyas Iyre's men suffering five consecutive defeats. As the playoff battle heats up, PBKS will be desperate to halt the slide and strengthen their chances of securing a top-four finish. PBKS are currently placed at fourth position in the points table with 13 points in 12 matches. The Royal Challengers Bengaluru have been one of the best teams in IPL 2026, winning eight of their 12 matches so far. They are almost through to the playoffs and will now look to secure a top-two finish with a win against the Kings. RCB are coming into this match with confidence after beating the Kolkata Knight Riders, thanks to a brilliant century from Virat Kohli. Playing XIs Punjab Kings: Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh(wk), Cooper Connolly, Shreyas Iyer(c), Suryansh Shedge, Shashank Singh, Azmatullah Omarzai, Harpreet Brar, Lockie Ferguson, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal Impact substitutes: Marcus Stoinis, Xavier Bartlett, Vishnu Vinod, Praveen Dubey, Musheer Khan Punjab Kings: Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh(wk), Cooper Connolly, Shreyas Iyer(c), Suryansh Shedge, Shashank Singh, Azmatullah Omarzai, Harpreet Brar, Lockie Ferguson, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal Also Read: Live Cricket Score Impact Substitutes: Rasikh Dar, Jordan Cox, Abhinandan Singh, Swapnil Singh, Kaushik Chauhan Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: 'GT Still Have The Ball In Their Court For Top Two Finish,' Says Chawla After KKR Loss

Indian Premier League: Former Indian cricketer Piyush Chawla believes that 2022 champions Gujarat Titans (GT) can still qualify for the Indian Premier League (IPL) playoffs by remaining in the top two, as they have their fate in their hands despite suffering a 29-run loss against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Saturday. After being asked to bat, KKR set a huge total of 247/2 in 20 overs thanks to the brilliant knock by Finn Allen, who scored 93 runs in 35 balls, and Angkrish Raghuvanshi also scored 82 runs off just 44 balls. In reply, despite the 85-run innings from captain Shubman Gill, the visitors failed to cross the line and scored just 218 runs. With this loss, GT still sits in the second spot in the points table with 16 points in 13 matches. Chawla feels that Gujarat will be eager to finish in the top two by winning their next match against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) rather than depending on other teams for favourable results or net run rate. Gujarat Titans will be worried because they would want to finish in the top two. They still have the ball in their court. They have a game against CSK left. If they win that one, they will definitely finish in the top two. But if not, then net run rate and all those things will come into the picture, Chawla told Jio Hotstar. You want to be safe because you don't want to be dependent on others, especially at this stage of the tournament. The things that are in your control, you just want to make sure you do them really well, he added. According to Chawla, chasing a mammoth total like 248 was always going to be challenging for GT as they don't have that much firepower at the top. You want to be safe because you don't want to be dependent on others, especially at this stage of the tournament. The things that are in your control, you just want to make sure you do them really well, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score They are consistent in that range. But when the target crosses 240, it becomes very challenging for their batting style. The way Gill and Sai Sudharsan bat, they rely on building partnerships. They don't have the same explosive firepower in the top order, he added. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Patidar Ruled Out, Jitesh To Captain RCB Against PBKS In Dharamsala

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru will be without their regular skipper Rajat Patidar for their IPL 2026 clash against Punjab Kings at the HPCA Stadium here on Sunday, with wicketkeeper-batter Jitesh Sharma set to lead the side in his absence. An IPL source confirmed to IANS about Patidars absence from the clash which is a re-match of the 2025 IPL final, where RCB edged PBKS to win their first title. Rajat Patidar wont be playing today. Jitesh will be the captain of RCB for this clash. Patidar wasnt seen in RCB travel videos to Dharamshala and missed both practice sessions. He will be back for RCBs last game in Hyderabad, further said the source. Patidar has been one of RCBs standout performers this season, amassing 326 runs in 10 innings at a strike rate of 195, including hitting three half-centuries. But his absence for the clash against CSK leaves a significant void in RCBs middle order and it will be interesting to see who replaces him in the starting eleven. RCB are currently sitting on top of the points table and a win over PBKS will confirm their playoffs berth. They arrive in Dharamsala on the back of successive victories. RCB will also continue to miss opener Phil Salt, who is yet to return from England after a finger injury. It means his compatriot Jacob Bethell will partner Virat Kohli at the top. Patidar has been one of RCBs standout performers this season, amassing 326 runs in 10 innings at a strike rate of 195, including hitting three half-centuries. But his absence for the clash against CSK leaves a significant void in RCBs middle order and it will be interesting to see who replaces him in the starting eleven. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The spotlight will now be on Jitesh, who has endured his leanest IPL season since debuting in 2022. He has managed just 90 runs so far and has fallen to pacers eight times in ten innings. For a batter known for his finishing abilities, rediscovering form as captain could be pivotal for Jitesh before RCB head into the playoffs. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Piyush Chawla Calls Narine 'best In The Business' After Masterclass Vs GT

Kolkata Knight Riders: Former Indian cricketer Piyush Chawla has heaped praise on Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) legend Sunil Narine, calling him 'the best in the business' after his magnificent spell against Gujarat Titans(GT) helped the team register a 29-run win at Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Saturday. In a match where 465 runs were scored across 40 overs, Narine stood out with a miserly spell of 2/29 in his four overs, helping KKR defend a massive 247/2 and keep their playoff hopes alive. KKR rode on explosive batting performances from Finn Allen (93), Angkrish Raghuvanshi (82 not out), and Cameron Green (52 not out) to post a daunting total. In reply, GT were well in the chase thanks to Shubman Gills commanding 85 and Jos Buttlers 57 before Narine turned the game with key breakthroughs. Chawla said Narines ability to maintain control in a high-scoring era makes him one of the most special bowlers in T20 cricket. Sunil Narine is one of the best in the business, no doubt. Cricket has evolved, and runs are flowing everywhere. Many things have changed in modern-day cricket, but one thing hasn't: his economy rate, Chawla told Jio Hotstar. No matter the surface or the venue, 450 runs were scored in this game, but Narine's economy rate stood out as the difference. He bowled the tough overs and kept it tight. He also picked up two wickets, he added. Chawla particularly highlighted Narines tactical brilliance in dismissing Gill, who looked set for a century while leading GTs chase. When Shubman Gill was going strong and looked set for a hundred, Narine changed his angle. We rarely see him go around the wicket to a right-hander. But he did it to cramp Gill for room, he said. Chawla particularly highlighted Narines tactical brilliance in dismissing Gill, who looked set for a century while leading GTs chase. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Narines spell proved decisive as GT finished at 218/4 despite being strongly placed at 177/1 after 16 overs. Article Source: IANS

Recreational Activities, Fun Sports Zone Adorn 74th Edition Of Fit India Sundays On Cycle

Sports Dr Mansukh Mandaviya: The 74th edition of the Fit India Sundays on Cycle saw enthusiastic participation of 50,000 individuals at 5000 locations across the country. The cycling drive was organized in association with Goods & Services Tax (GST) and Customs Departments of the Government of India. A plethora of recreational activities were also parallelly organized along with the cycling initiative like Yoga, rope skipping and Zumba. In New Delhi, the event was conducted at the iconic Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium that witnessed a turnout of over 800 individuals including officers from the GST and Customs departments along with the general public from all age groups. A fun sports zone was also created prompting the public to try out options like badminton, chess, carrom and ludo etc. Lemon race, ball game, tug of war, squat challenge and push-up challenge were also conducted. Started by Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports Dr Mansukh Mandaviya in December 2024, the cycling movement has witnessed participation from 32,38,234 fitness enthusiasts till now across 3,07,852 locations in 74 editions. Talking about the initiative, Manish Kumar, Chief Commissioner (Customs Department) said, Following the clarion call by our Honble Prime Minister to adopt a healthy lifestyle, the officers and employees of the GST and Customs Departments have become part of the Fit India movement. We all know health is our biggest property. If you are healthy, you will be able to complete your task properly. Echoing the sentiment, Narendra Kumar Yadav, Additional Director (GST) and Fit India Ambassador said cycling is also plays an important role in controlling air pollution. This is our regular event of Fit India Sundays on Cycle. As I am the brand ambassador for Fit India, we organise the cycling event every Sunday across the country. As PM Modi has appealed to people, cycling is important for not only our health and environment, but also for the economy of our country, as it is helping us save fuel, Yadav said later. Talking about the initiative, Manish Kumar, Chief Commissioner (Customs Department) said, Following the clarion call by our Honble Prime Minister to adopt a healthy lifestyle, the officers and employees of the GST and Customs Departments have become part of the Fit India movement. We all know health is our biggest property. If you are healthy, you will be able to complete your task properly. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The cycling drive is conducted simultaneously across all States and Union Territories, including SAI Regional Centres, National Centres of Excellence (NCOEs), SAI Training Centres (STCs), Khelo India State Centres of Excellence (KISCEs) and Khelo India Centres (KICs). Article Source: IANS

I Would Be Looking Into Him Straight Away: Shastri Backs Sooryavanshis India Call-up For Ireland T20Is

Ireland T20Is: Former India head coach Ravi Shastri believes teenage batting prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is already ready for the international stage, urging selectors to fast-track the youngster into Indias T20 setup following his remarkable rise over the past few months. Sooryavanshis stock has soared rapidly after a sensational run in the Indian Premier League with the Rajasthan Royals, where the left-handed opener has emerged as one of the most destructive batters of the season. The teenager has accumulated 440 runs in 11 innings while maintaining an extraordinary strike rate of 236.56, including a tournament-leading tally of 40 sixes. His breakthrough campaign has featured a breathtaking 36-ball century against Sunrisers Hyderabad, along with two additional half-centuries, performances that have elevated him from a promising youth prospect to a genuine contender for higher honours. Shastri, speaking on The ICC Review, said the fearless approach shown by the youngster against experienced bowlers across the IPL makes him impossible to ignore. The door would be three-fourths open. I can tell you that, for sure, because if you want to encourage or get someone young and into the setup as quickly as possible, then it's the T20 format of the game and he is not short by any margin. This guy can walk into a lot of sides in world cricket at this current moment in time. Just when you look at the exuberance of youth and that youth shows on his face, Shastri said on The ICC Review. The former India captain and coach suggested that Indias upcoming white-ball tour of Ireland could offer the ideal platform to introduce Sooryavanshi to senior international cricket. If selected, the youngster would become the youngest player ever to debut for India. Shastri dismissed concerns surrounding the batters age, insisting that his performances and temperament already indicate readiness for the next level. A lot of people will ask, is he 15, is he 16, is he 14? I don't care. I just see the way he is batting at the moment and the way he's taking on all comers twice his age or maybe two and a half times his age. It doesn't matter to him. So I think he's very, very much in the reckoning. And when you have tours of Ireland and all this happening now, I would be looking into him straight away, Shastri added. The timing of Shastris endorsement has only intensified speculation around Sooryavanshis future after the teenager earned his maiden India A call-up earlier this week. The selection came just a day after Shastri publicly backed him for national honours, further strengthening the narrative around his meteoric rise. A lot of people will ask, is he 15, is he 16, is he 14? I don't care. I just see the way he is batting at the moment and the way he's taking on all comers twice his age or maybe two and a half times his age. It doesn't matter to him. So I think he's very, very much in the reckoning. And when you have tours of Ireland and all this happening now, I would be looking into him straight away, Shastri added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Having already starred in Indias victorious ICC Mens Under-19 Cricket World Cup campaign earlier this year, Sooryavanshis rapid progression is beginning to draw comparisons with some of the countrys fastest-rising cricket talents in recent memory. Article Source: IANS

Whom Does He Need To Prove: Ashwin Backs Kohlis Retirement Stance, Says He Went Through The Same Feeling

ICC ODI World Cup: Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has thrown his support behind Virat Kohli following the latters candid remarks about stepping away from Test cricket and the pressures that influenced his decision Kohli, speaking on the RCB podcast, revealed that the constant expectation to justify his place after every outing played a major role in his decision to retire from the longest format after Indias tour of Australia. The comments sparked widespread discussion across the cricketing world, and Ashwin, who himself retired from international cricket midway through Indias 2024 Australia tour, said he completely understood Kohlis mindset. Virat said, 'I don't have to prove my work to anyone,' and that's absolutely right. Why, man? I also felt the same. There was nothing left to prove. Whom does he need to prove himself to after playing for so many years and winning so many matches for India? Ashwin said on his YouTube channel. Ashwin spoke at length about the emotional and mental burden that senior players often carry, especially after years of performing under relentless public scrutiny. According to the veteran off-spinner, there comes a stage in a cricketers career where external validation ceases to matter. What people say from the outside is just their job. When you are young, there is often a strong urge to say, 'I will prove you wrong.' But maturity and wisdom come when you realise that the battle is not with anyone else, but with yourself. The moment you have that realisation, life becomes very easy. I think Virat has reached that point. It is not easy to leave regrets behind, he added. Kohlis original remarks had offered a rare insight into the mental fatigue experienced by elite athletes late in their careers. The former India captain suggested that repeatedly being placed in situations where he felt compelled to justify his value had taken a toll on him. What people say from the outside is just their job. When you are young, there is often a strong urge to say, 'I will prove you wrong.' But maturity and wisdom come when you realise that the battle is not with anyone else, but with yourself. The moment you have that realisation, life becomes very easy. I think Virat has reached that point. It is not easy to leave regrets behind, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The batting great also addressed speculation surrounding his potential participation in the 2027 ICC ODI World Cup, making it clear that he no longer feels the need to chase approval or silence critics at this stage of his journey. Article Source: IANS