Lisa Keightley 'disappointed' at lack of female head coaches in women's Hundred
MI London head coach was the only woman in her role among the eight teams at Wednesday's historic auction
Pakistan Media, Fans Slam Team After Humiliating Defeat To Bangladesh
Opener Tanzid Hasan Tamim: Pakistans cricket team faced sharp criticism from fans and media after suffering a humiliating eight-wicket defeat against Bangladesh in the first ODI, here. Chasing a modest target of 115, Bangladesh comfortably reached 115/2 in just 15.1 overs. Opener Tanzid Hasan Tamim led the charge with an unbeaten 67, while Najmul Hossain Shanto contributed 27 as the hosts sealed an emphatic victory. Pakistan did get an early breakthrough when captain Shaheen Shah Afridi dismissed opener Saif Hassan for 4 in the third over, offering a brief moment of hope for the visitors. However, Tamim and Shanto stitched together a solid partnership that ensured Bangladesh chased down the target with ease. Earlier, Pakistans batting lineup collapsed for just 114 in 30.4 overs after Bangladesh won the toss and opted to field first. Fast bowler Nahid Rana produced a sensational spell, claiming a five-wicket haul to dismantle Pakistans batting order. Pakistans innings began steadily with debutants Sahibzada Farhan and Maaz Sadaqat adding 41 runs for the opening wicket. Rana then triggered the collapse by dismissing Farhan before removing Shamyl Hussain for 4 with the score at 47. The pacer continued his dominance, dismissing Sadaqat (18), Mohammad Rizwan (10), and Salman Agha (5) to complete his five-wicket haul. Mehidy Hasan Miraz also played a crucial role with the ball, picking up three wickets including Abdul Samad for a duck, Hussain Talat (4), and Shaheen Afridi (4). Faheem Ashraf showed some resistance with a fighting 37 off 47 balls to help Pakistan cross the 100-run mark, but he was eventually dismissed by Mustafizur Rahman. Taskin Ahmed wrapped up the innings by removing Mohammad Wasim Jr for a duck. Following the defeat, Pakistani fans took to social media to express frustration over the teams poor batting performance and lack of fight. 114 all out against Bangladesh is simply unacceptable. This team has no consistency, one fan wrote on X. Another supporter criticised the batting lineup, saying, Except for one or two players, no one looks capable of building an innings. This is embarrassing. Some fans also questioned the selection decisions and the inclusion of several inexperienced players in the playing XI. Another supporter criticised the batting lineup, saying, Except for one or two players, no one looks capable of building an innings. This is embarrassing. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Pakistani media outlets also described the defeat as a shocking collapse and highlighted the dominance of Bangladeshs bowling attack led by Nahid Rana. Article Source: IANS
'No Conflict Of Interest': BCCI Ethics Officer Clears MS Dhoni In Academy Ownership Case
BCCI Ethics Officer: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Ethics Officer, Justice Arun Mishra, has dismissed a conflict-of-interest complaint filed against former India captain MS Dhoni, ruling that there was no evidence of any violation under the boards regulations. The complaint, filed in February 2024, claimed that Dhoni, while being a current player, was also the owner of a cricket academy. This situation allegedly broke Rule 38(4)(a) and Rule 38(4)(p) of the BCCIs conflict-of-interest rules. The complaint also accused him of not meeting disclosure requirements under Rules 38(2) and 38(5) after the regulations changed in 2018. In his detailed order, Justice Mishra pointed out that Dhoni could indeed be seen as the owner of the cricket academies run by M/s Aarka Sports and Management Private Limited. Resultantly, Shri MS Dhoni can be said to be the owner of the cricket academies opened by M/s Aarka Sports and Management Private Limited. However, the agreement was entered into in 2017, whereas regulations came into force in September 2018. On facts, Conflict of Interest at the relevant time when Shri MS Dhoni represented India as Captain/Player has not been made out, the order stated. The Ethics Officer also questioned the motive behind the complaint, noting that the complainant seemed to be pursuing a personal issue rather than a genuine regulatory concern. There was no evidence suggesting institutional control or decision-making authority, nor were there any instances of favouritism, bias, or preferential treatment, the order noted. However, he stressed that the agreement for the academies was signed in 2017, before the BCCIs conflict-of-interest regulations went into effect. The complainant cannot, in effect, espouse the cause of a third party in this adjudicatory forum. More so, the complainant has personal axe to grind as the respondent had caused loss to him, the order said. It further observed that the issue seemed to stem from a commercial dispute and that the complaint had been filed after considerable delay. The complainant cannot, in effect, espouse the cause of a third party in this adjudicatory forum. More so, the complainant has personal axe to grind as the respondent had caused loss to him, the order said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Dhoni, who currently represents the Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League, remains one of the leagues most successful captains, having led the franchise to five IPL titles. Article Source: IANS
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All the eight squads with each player's winning bid at the auction
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From Being On Sidelines To Becoming Player Of The Tournament: Samson's WC Run Was Worth The Wait
T20 World Cup: Sanju Samson began the 2026 Mens T20 World Cup relegated to the bench for all but a single league match against Namibia in New Delhi. Many feared the tournament would see Samson as an unused member again, a fate he faced during the victorious 2024 campaign. When it seemed another chapter of unfulfilled potential would be written for Samson, a dramatic turn saw him redrafted during the Super Eights clash against Zimbabwe. From there, Samson did more than just step into the light - he seized the stage to become the lead actor in Indias march to a third T20 World Cup title. In a breathtaking time from March 1-8, Samson rewrote his own legacy. It began with an unforgettable, unbeaten 97 in a high-pressure encounter against the West Indies in Kolkata, followed by two sublime, identical knocks of 89 in the semi-final and final against England and New Zealand. By the time India had the trophy in their hands, Samson had amassed 321 runs across just five innings at a blistering strike rate of 199 to become the Player of the Tournament. His resurgence was punctuated by a record-breaking 24 sixes - the most ever by a batter in a single edition of the tournament. For a player who has carried the heavy burden of inconsistent runs and unfulfilled potential, the crowning moment felt richly deserving. While Indias clinical 96-run demolition of New Zealand at the Narendra Modi Stadium will be remembered as an unprecedented historical triumph, the enduring image of the 2026 campaign will be Samson finally shining on a grand stage - runs flowing as freely as the fireworks that illuminated the Ahmedabad sky on March 8. Biju George first saw Samson bat as an 11-year-old coming to practice at the Medical College Ground in Thiruvananthapuram, nearly 25km from his home in Vizhinjam. He remembers the exact moment Samson was called up for India for their tour of England in 2014. When that happened, I can still imagine seeing him with his kit bag on his shoulder, walking down the ground. He came close and hugged me and said, Sir, we have done that, recalled George in an exclusive conversation with IANS. Now, over 11 years later, George remained awake in the hours after the final, riding the wave of admiration for Samson. I am so happy for Sanju. He has seen the lows in life, now he is seeing the highs, and I am very happy for him. I hope the highs stay a little longer than the lows. People now absolutely look at him in a different light. If I may say so, he has done like what Kohli and Rohit have done for India in the World Cup and probably Dhoni has done the same for India in the World Cup, albeit in a lesser number of innings. So all credit to Sanju for how he has come through. Samsons path to this moment came via a recall triggered by Indias urge to break from left-handed batting monotony at the top order. See, every class player needs just one break, one good break. He got that break and he just took it off from there. If you look at one more angle to this, the Zimbabwe, West Indies, England and New Zealand bowlers, he has faced them a lot in the IPL. So he knew what they were coming through and that was one good thing for him, added George. To watch Samson bat is a purists joy. At his best, he simply stands with his famous stillness. Zubin Bharucha, the former Mumbai batter who has mentored and coached Samson since he was 17, explains why that purity is structural. There are many who have played this game and who strike the ball beautifully. Eventually you only get four or six. But the purists can start categorising levels of purity, which stem from your bat swing and the way the ball leaves the bat. The longer and higher the backlift the more the time, purer the strike, but equally more the complications, given it has a longer journey to the ball. His backlift is probably one of the higher ones around world cricket where the toe of the bat often gets past his head. This is unique to each individual and termed as his batting DNA. Hence when the bat comes down from that long winded coil, the ball leaves the bat with a different sound and that's the effortlessness you see in his strokeplay. Very few in the world possess this and it's completely unique to him, Bharucha told IANS. This purity wasnt always evident. Ahead of the World Cup, Samson made only 46 runs in five innings against New Zealand. An exaggerated trigger movement and being too deep in the crease was hampering him, but with help from the Indian coaching staff to stabilize his base, Samson found his mojo. Now he stopped doing that and he is very good now, as he has come back to it. See, for everybody, you can't say that as a cricketer, you adjust technique immediately. What you can say is, technique evolves over the years through experience, facing different bowlers, playing on different pitches, and thats how it evolves. He has now got his Zen and mojo - like, this is what I want to be. Once the base is strong, he has got a very clear bat path with a high back-lift and a flourishing follow-through. So with the still base, all he can do is, let the hands do all the work. Despite his talent, the challenge was often the psychological toll of being doubted. Those doubts evaporated when Samson knelt and made a cross to thank the Almighty after hitting his unbeaten 97 in Kolkata. Everyone has their own unique journey, but its the wait and the struggle that makes it extra special. So many ups and downs through any journey but what was unique was that at every juncture, his sheer undiluted talent helped supersede all obstacles. It was all mental, technically he had scored three centuries and in some of the most difficult conditions in SA when the next best player score was thirty odd. After those kind of innings for him to still have everyone doubt his position became his mental challenge. It would be for anyone. In Kerala, Samson occupies a space in the popular imagination that goes beyond statistics. George recalls how his household help - a passionate cricket follower - found the stress of lack of runs from Samsons bat being. She was telling my wife like in the week before Sanju was called for the matches after he had his failures initially, that I have so much tension in my house. First of all, my child is sick. My house has an EMI pending. All this is fine, but why doesn't Sanju make runs? Please ask him about this. She was like, I can handle all of that tensions in life. But why isn't he, our kid, making runs? That is the connect he has with the Kerala audience and its not just Kerala, everybody loves him. He is like your younger brother every family will want in their family. He is the guy who every girl wants to romance. Every mother wants to have a person like him as their son. Before the tournament, Samson prepared by batting for long hours every day on grounds made available by the Kerala Cricket Association. Hats off especially to the secretary, Mr. Vinod S Kumar, because he gave the go ahead for the use of those three first class grounds, even with the use of lights so that he could bat under lights, said George. Bowlers came in shifts, as Bharucha oversaw the technical side of those sessions. Any camp at this stage of his career is merely to ensure things are all in place technically and we have worked on high variability. Like, have we practiced every aspect we imagine might be encountered inside the game. An early swinging ball or persistent short balls or spinners bowling different angles. Once each box had been ticked he was ready to go. A support structure involving his wife Charulatha Remesh, friend Iqlas Naha, and the legendary Sachin Tendulkar helped Samson keep his focus. He had reached out to the Master batter, which was really good. It still goes on to show that the legends of Indian cricket, they are still helping the current generation and that is called legacy like what do you leave behind? George also revealed that India head coach Gautam Gambhir's admiration for Samson stretches back to being at Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). People always speak about Rajasthan Royals giving the start for Sanju. But he started his IPL career with KKR. People always speak about RR giving the start for Sanju. But he started his IPL career with KKR. That's why when he hit the 97 not out against the West Indies, I was thinking how fitting it is - the city where he started his IPL career is the place where he began his turnaround. He was given an academy contract by KKR, but Venky Mysore came in and he was instrumental in making sure that he was given an IPL contract, especially when Gautam Gambhir was leading. Nobody knows Gautam Gambhir was always a big fan and supporter of Sanju. In 2013/14 when I was working with KKR, Gautam bhai always used to ask, What is Sanju doing? Make sure he doesn't fail and take care of him. He used to tell me every single time. George, who works as talent scouting head for KKR, has not called Samson since the final. He is waiting, deliberately, for the noise to settle. I am still in that euphoria. I don't know whether it's a dream or reality, but it's really good for him. I hope he does well in the IPL too, where he will play for a new team (Chennai Super Kings) and on a new wicket. Chennais wicket has also changed. It has become a flatter wicket. It will be good for him. I didn't try to reach out because I wanted everything for him to sink in. I will talk to him only after the IPL. For Bharucha, the question of whether this moment represents a new beginning for Samson is not an easy one to answer, though he did feel a potential chance of captaining India could come. This is a difficult question to answer not from the perspective of whether it's the beginning because it is in many ways the beginning and if he wants, he can go win India another World Cup or even potentially captain India given his unique leadership qualities. But because he is such a unique personality with such wide and varied interests in life beyond cricket, where he wants to solve the problems of the world and certainly his beloved Kerala. He is in a unique and privileged position and while everyone would want to continue watching that silken and effortless flow regaling cricket audiences around the world, Sanju the individual might have other desires. He is such a unique individual. Maybe he can traverse both worlds and keep everyone happy, but only time will tell what will make Sanju happy. But because he is such a unique personality with such wide and varied interests in life beyond cricket, where he wants to solve the problems of the world and certainly his beloved Kerala. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Jemi (Jemimah Rodrigues) and Sanju are probably the two cricketers who are closest to my heart. Jemi is my daughter. For Sanju, I hope he carries this on for a long, long time in the same way, concluded George. Article Source: IANS
Will O'Rourke on the verge of returning to action from back injury
Will's been like a bull in a china shop wanting to get back on the park, but understands he's an important resource, selector Larsen says
RCB To Host Sunrisers Hyderabad In Opener As IPL 2026 To Commence On March 28
TATA Indian Premier League: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Wednesday announced the schedule for the first phase of the TATA Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, to be played from March 28 to April 12, 2026. As three states are scheduled to undergo State Assembly elections during this period, the full schedule of the tournament will be announced once the poll dates are announced, BCCI said in a statement. The 19th edition of the biggest T20 league on the globe will commence with defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) hosting Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. A total of 20 matches will be played across 10 venues: Bengaluru, Mumbai, Guwahati, New Chandigarh, Lucknow, Kolkata, Chennai, Delhi, Ahmedabad and Hyderabad. During this period, the tournament will feature four double-headers, with the afternoon matches beginning at 03:30 PM IST and the evening matches commencing at 07:30 PM IST. Following the opening encounter on Saturday, Mumbai Indians will take on Kolkata Knight Riders at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Sunday. The first double-header of the season will take place on April 4, 2026, when Delhi Capitals face Mumbai Indians in the afternoon match at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi, followed by Gujarat Titans taking on Rajasthan Royals at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Rajasthan Royals will begin their home campaign in Guwahati, where they will host Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians. Punjab Kings (PBKS), meanwhile, will play their early home fixtures at the PCA Stadium in New Chandigarh. The first double-header of the season will take place on April 4, 2026, when Delhi Capitals face Mumbai Indians in the afternoon match at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi, followed by Gujarat Titans taking on Rajasthan Royals at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Also Read: Live Cricket Score BCCI also said that The matches scheduled in Bengaluru are subject to clearance from the Expert Committee constituted by the Government of Karnataka. The committee will conduct a meeting and inspection of the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on March 13, 2026, during which a full-scale mock demonstration of match-day arrangements will be carried out to assess the stadiums preparedness for hosting IPL matches. Article Source: IANS
RCB vs SRH to kick off IPL 2026 in Bengaluru on March 28
The IPL has released the schedule for the first 20 matches of the season including four double-headers
IPL 2026: Virat Kohli posts training reel for RCB, deletes and reposts it later; fans wonder why
Star Indian batter Virat Kohli has begun preparations for the upcoming Indian Premier League 2026 season, with videos of the former Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) captain training in the nets going viral on social media.
Beth Mooney, Sophie Devine earn 210,000 Hundred paydays
Dani Gibson sold for 190,000 as franchises splash out on first morning of women's auction
South Africa, West Indies cricket teams make their way home after week-long delay
ICC said the delay in travel was entirely outside its control; travel decisions were guided by safety and feasibility
RCB To Host SRH In IPL 2026 Opener On March 28: Report
Indian Premier League: The first phase of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 will see defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru face Sunrisers Hyderabad in the season opener at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Saturday, March 28, a report said. Five-time champions Mumbai Indians will start their campaign against Kolkata Knight Riders at the iconic Wankhede Stadium on March 29. Meanwhile, Chennai Super Kings will open their season against Rajasthan Royals in Guwahati. This matchup adds an early highlight to the schedule as two of the leagues most popular teams go head-to-head. According to a report by The Indian Express, the league has released the fixtures for the first 20 matches. The rest of the schedule is expected to be announced later. The opening phase promises several exciting contests as teams aim to gain early momentum in their quest for the playoffs. Last seasons runner ups, Punjab Kings, will begin their campaign against Gujarat Titans in Mullanpur. Lucknow Super Giants will host Delhi Capitals in Lucknow on April 1. The first phase also includes several key matchups, such as Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs. Chennai Super Kings on April 5 in Bengaluru and Mumbai Indians vs. Royal Challengers Bengaluru on April 12 in Mumbai. According to a report by The Indian Express, the league has released the fixtures for the first 20 matches. The rest of the schedule is expected to be announced later. The opening phase promises several exciting contests as teams aim to gain early momentum in their quest for the playoffs. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The schedule also features several high-profile matchups. Bengaluru will host Chennai on April 5, and Mumbai will welcome Bengaluru on April 12. The first phase schedule of the IPL 2026 will be announced on Wednesday at 7:00 PM IST on the Star Sports Network and JioHotstar. Article Source: IANS
You Become A Champion Team When There Are Selfless People In The Side, Says Kotak
T20 World Cup: Indias historic defence of their Mens T20 World Cup title was built on a foundation of sheer dominance and a team-first ethos. Under head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Suryakumar Yadav, the Indian team clobbered a record 106 sixes and became the first team in tournaments history to maintain a run rate of above 10 runs per over. Behind this relentless power-hitting run to the trophy, there were many contributors - Sanju Samson and Ishan Kishan finished amongst the tournament's leading scorers with strike rates above 200, while the likes of Abhishek Sharma, skipper Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Shivam Dube, Hardik Pandya chipping in whenever needed. India overcame early slumps to deliver the goods in high-stakes knockout games and as the euphoria of World Cup victory still remains high, India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak sat down for an exclusive conversation with IANS on the feeling of becoming World Cup winners again, the selfless team culture, turning point of the campaign, and more. Excerpts: Q. The Indian team has done what no other side did before win the T20 World Cup thrice, clinch it consecutive times and that too on home soil. How is this feeling of being world champions in the shortest format? A. It is a great feeling because, if you see, I came to the Indian team a year and two months ago. Then first came the Champions Trophy win, followed by the Asia Cup victory and this is the third trophy in a year. I feel the World Cup is the World Cup because this is the biggest event we have in the cricketing world. The big thing was that though we had won one before, and no other country had won back-to-back titles and no other host country had won. You do know that when there is a World Cup in India, the expectation of our people is so high. So, that was also in the back of my mind that no matter what happens, we cannot lose the T20 World Cup in India. So, it is a very happy feeling actually. I am happier for our country also because so many people support us and for them, we won this trophy in India. So, that is also a great feeling for everyone in the Indian team, including me. Another thing I want to share is in 2024, I was India A head coach and served as the batting coach of NCA (now CoE). When I was not in the team, the excitement of the Indian team winning the World Cup, and how I felt as a spectator or outsider, I still remember that experience. That is why I have that excited feeling right now because when you are with the team, the expectations and feelings of the rest of the people and the joy of winning, I have seen that it is actually more. When you are with the team, winning becomes a little common. But what does it mean for the public, especially because I have seen it as one of them, I do know about it. So, I really am so happy that we won and a lot of credit goes to the players. I will not lie because when they go out, they handle the pressure and do everything. So, credit should be given to them only. But I am very happy to be a small part of this World Cup winning group in India. Q. In such a high-pressure tournament, where everyones eyes was on the Indian team replicating their good batting run in bilateral T20I games, how important was it to have that selfless and team-first mindset? A. The dedication which Sanju and everyone had on practice days, it was very good. I must tell you look at someone like Siraj. In the first match against the USA, he took three wickets. But he couldn't play in the rest of the games, as Bumrah came in. Then Kuldeep - he won so many matches for India, or even Washington. Then Rinku was out of the eleven or Sanju was not playing in between, but we won as the whole team played in the tournament as a unit. No one played for their performance. There wasnt this mindset of I should be playing or why I am not playing. I mean, that is the way you become a champion team - when there are selfless people in the side. In a way, that was our strength that our team was totally selfless and that is what actually happened at the end. I think to win such a big tournament, the things that happened, for us, eventually went well. Like Shubman got hurt on the right foot and he was not in good form, and runs werent coming much off him. Then Ishan Kishan came in and he performed so well. Plus, if you observe, we had top three batters in Abhishek, Ishan and Tilak in 3-4 matches and that leftie-leftie combination had to be changed. Then to change that combination, Sanju was brought back and he did so well in the end. Sometimes I feel all of this was God's plan or as we say bhagwan ka ishaara. Everyone did everything for this team and thats why we got such a good result. A lot of credit goes to players for this win. Can I tell you the truth? If you ask me, I have made just a small contribution. Yes, I do work as the batting coach, but a lot of credit goes to players because they have to handle pressure and execution of shots. Then a lot of credit also goes to Gautam and Surya because they are answerable for every single thing. The pressure is on them and I have a small contribution to make and I do it. But I would give a lot of credit to these guys players, captain and coach. Q. In your opinion, what was the turning point of Indias campaign in this competition? A. I can't say one thing as the turning point. But I feel in the first few matches, because of Abhishek's form and off-spinners causing troubles for three lefties, it was not working and that momentum was not there. Since the time I joined the team from the white-ball series against England in January 2025, we had a strong momentum in T20Is that year. Only in the beginning of the World Cup, from the first match, we were little concerned that the momentum was not working. I was confident that it would work, but after the loss to South Africa, we had to do well in the remaining four games and we did well. The actual brand of cricket that we played, we got that back at the right time as all games after that defeat to South Africa were knock out matches. It was compulsory for us to win against Zimbabwe and we did win all four of our remaining knockout games in that fashion. The way we batted in all those four games, we created that momentum we were craving to have and that was very, very important for us to win. Q. What will be that one moment or a collection of moments from this campaign which will stay forever in your mind? A. I cant pinpoint at any one memory from this campaign. But I am so happy to be a part of this group winning a T20 World Cup in India is always special. All the odds were against us, so as the records and data like the host nation didn't win a T20 World Cup and no one ever won back-to-back titles. By achieving all of that, we were able to win this World Cup for our country and that will be forever memorable for me. Q. In the post-win celebrations, your family also joined in. Can you talk a bit about their contributions while you were busy guiding the Indian batters to success in the competition? A. They have contributed a lot. I am out of the house for 10 months and if you talk about my wife, to look after the house and kids, she has been very great. Now with the kids grown up, they also miss me like they have their own careers and ups and downs. They sometimes feel like their father is not around for a much longer time. All of this is part of the journey, but they came to the ground for the final and we won the trophy so I give a lot of credit to my family. They don't let me feel that I am missing out because sometimes this journey is tough. When you are out, there are a lot of ups and downs which you can't even discuss with people. Situations like that come in everyones life, but at least when you can't stay at one place for a longer time, then you feel the sadness of not having your family around. My wife is the one who has been playing that pivotal role for my family, especially since the time when my mother and father were also there. My sister is also one of my big supporting figures. Unfortunately, her daughter's health was bad, so she couldn't come to watch the final. But that is life and I am very thankful to all of them. I was so happy that they were very happy to see a World Cup win at home and be a part of seeing it live, as well as soak in the surreal feeling after the post-game ceremonies were over. So honestly, God has been very kind actually. Q. You now have a breather of a few months before the international action begins again. How does the planning for future events in both white-ball and red-ball look like from your perspective? A. Yes, a couple months of break is there now, but theres still a lot to look forward to. Aside from the future white-ball ICC events, there are Test matches around and a WTC final in 2027. We will definitely try to play in that WTC final and win for India, which we haven't won yet. But the efforts will be there for making it happen and rest assured we will do that. It has to come the good run in red-ball cricket. The BCCI is doing so much for all of us, and a lot of credit has to go to them also. Like our domestic structure and IPL, we are getting such good players for the national team. They don't just come in picture like that top to top administrators and right down to people at the bottom, who work in domestic cricket, they should also get a lot of credit for winning the World Cup because this is also a pathway which is so strong and thats why our players are so strong. But the efforts will be there for making it happen and rest assured we will do that. It has to come the good run in red-ball cricket. The BCCI is doing so much for all of us, and a lot of credit has to go to them also. Like our domestic structure and IPL, we are getting such good players for the national team. Also Read: Live Cricket Score They are creating such a comfortable life for juniors, Ranji Trophy and IPL players, as only then these players can grow so much because having that security, especially the financial security is important in today's world. So credit to all the stakeholders and it is a small contribution that I am making and till the time I am there, I will keep doing it. Article Source: IANS
Nahid Rana five-for dismantles Pakistan
Only a 32-run tenth-wicket parnership helped Pakistan go past the 100-run mark after Rana picked up his maiden five-wicket haul in ODIs
T20 WC Winners India To Get USD 2.63 Mn Prize Money As ICC Unveils Final Distribution
The International Cricket Council: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced the final prize money distribution for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, confirming that champions India will receive USD 2.63 million from the tournaments USD 11.25 million players prize pool. India secured the title after defeating New Zealand in the final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, capping off a successful campaign that also delivered a record financial reward. The prize purse reflects the major increase in ICC tournament prize money announced in 2024. According to the ICC, the champions will receive USD 2,639,423, significantly higher than the payout awarded in the previous edition of the tournament in 2024. Runners-up New Zealand will take home USD 1,422,692 for finishing second, while losing semi-finalists South Africa and England will earn USD 1,005,577 and USD 974,423, respectively. Four teams, the West Indies, Pakistan, Zimbabwe, Sri Lanka, who made it to the Super 8s but failed to progress to the knockouts, earned USD 538,269 mn, USD 522,692 mn, USD 491,538 mn, and USD 475,962 mn, respectively. Meanwhile, teams that reached the Super 8 stage but did not progress further, including Afghanistan, Australia and the United States, were each awarded USD 309,808 mn. Among the remaining participants, Scotland received USD 278,654 mn, and Ireland earned USD 271,731 mn. Meanwhile, Italy, the Netherlands, the United Arab Emirates and Nepal were each awarded USD 256,154 mn. Teams that exited in the earlier stages of the tournament, Canada, Namibia and Oman, will each receive the base participation payment of USD 225,000 mn. The ICC confirmed that all listed figures represent the gross prize money earned by teams across the group stage, Super 8s, semi-finals and the final. The amounts include base participation payments, bonuses for match wins and rewards for progression through the tournament stages. Teams that exited in the earlier stages of the tournament, Canada, Namibia and Oman, will each receive the base participation payment of USD 225,000 mn. Also Read: Live Cricket Score It added the record prize pool eflects the base participation payment that each team receives (USD 225,000), final team placements, win bonuses and progression through each stage of the tournament. Article Source: IANS
Indian Team Kept The Belief Going That Abhishek Will Come Good One Day, Says Kotak
T20 World Cup: India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak credited the teams culture and unwavering belief in ensuring that Abhishek Sharma would come good one day during their successful 2026 Mens T20 World Cup 2026 campaign after enduring a difficult start to the competition. Abhishek, the swashbuckling top-ranked T20I batter, struggled to get going in the tournament, especially after suffering from a stomach infection. He scored just one fifty and bagged three ducks before shining in the title clash against New Zealand in Ahmedabad, by hitting 52 off 21 balls, including notching up his fifty off just 18 deliveries. Regarding Abhishek, that boy is mentally very tough. But he used to smile even if things werent going well for him. He got sick at the start of the tournament and did not get a run in four league matches. He was under pressure, but against Zimbabwe, I felt that he was trying to hit the ball hard because of his lack of form. So it was fixed by everyone that they would do their best for keeping him in a happy space. We also kept that belief going in him that he will come good one day. Like, he scored that fifty against Zimbabwe in Chennai. Though in the match against England, he did not make big runs again, but he scored crucial runs in the final. So the combination of the team and everyone's faith, that was supremely good for him, Kotak told IANS in an exclusive conversation. He also explained how he and the Indian team management managed the delicate balance of providing technical inputs without overloading a struggling player like Abhishek and keeping him in a happy space at the same time. All of us in the team kept him confident and we kept saying to him, Tu karega (You will come good). The little bit of changes were made for him both technically and tactically in terms of getting back to being among runs -for example, making more use of the crease. Then Gautam used to give some inputs as everyone used to bowl to him outside the off-stump. So technical inputs and tactically what I felt was necessary for him to click was also made. There was everyone's contribution in this and keeping him confident was also the key. In coaching, you cannot do that you have to give a batter a lot of information in order to boost his confidence. Its because if one does that, then he will feel I have a fault here and there. Har jagah fault hi fault hai (I can see faults everywhere). You cannot do that and we all handled that well and passed on the messages too. Eventually, it went very well, by the grace of God, he elaborated. The batting coach also lauded wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan for making a successful return to the national set-up after a hiatus of nearly two years. Drafted at the expense of Shubman Gill from the T20Is against New Zealand in January with an eye to maximise batting power-play, Kishan went on to amass 317 runs and became Indias second-highest run-scorer in the tournament after Sanju Samson. It was such a big tournament for Ishan - almost two years later, he came back and was amazing. This boy has been with me for a long time. After being under me for Gujarat Lions in the IPL, I have seen him play two-three good innings in domestic games against Saurashtra in Rajkot and Delhi. In 2019, when I became India A's head coach, he was again with me for five series. I would meet him whenever he came to NCA (now CoE). I know him well and I have seen his tough times - when he came back from South Africa in 2023 and he was not in the team. But he is a lovely player - he is someone who is very lively, he said. Kotak further noted a visible evolution in the wicketkeeper-batters temperament, while admitting that the humour element he and Abhishek bring to the team is much-needed. I also noted that as compared to the time in the past, a lot of maturity has come into him. He laughs a lot and is funny and keeps everyone happy. Characters like him and Abhishek are very funny and it is important to have people like them as with pressure around all the time, dimaag phat jayega (the brain will break down). I am so happy for Ishan because this was his comeback run and the way he has performed, it was just outstanding. You can see all of his innings - the way he has played, he truly gave it all for the team, he said. With Samson slotting in to break the left-handed monotony, Tilak Varma went from being a proven top-order batter to hitting explosive cameos in the middle-order for maintaining momentum, something which Kotak was quick to appreciate. Regarding Tilak coming good at five, we had to bring in a right-handed batter early on, as the leftie batters were being dismissed by off-spinners. With Ishan at three and Surya at four, and Tilak had to slot in at number five. Tilak is a kind of player who will play according to the teams needs at any number. There was no tension as such from Tilak and everyone, as they would say, Any number you tell us to bat at, we will fulfill the teams needs and do the job well, he said. Beyond individual performances, Kotak highlighted the batting group's collective selflessness by citing skipper Suryakumar Yadav's willingness to push Shivam Dube ahead of himself in the semi-final against England in Mumbai which in his view was emblematic of what sets a world champion winning team apart from other sides. Its the same for all the players. Even Surya sacrificed his own position in the batting order. Then Shivam and Hardik contributed so well and Tilak also played so well. In all, everyone in the batting group made their contributions. The batting group is just like this and you can see in the semi-final, Surya sent Shivam ahead of himself. In a way, for the teams good, it was a sacrifice. Otherwise he could have thought, I can also make runs for the team. I had been the number one T20I batter and why should I send anyone ahead? But it was not like that. He was also thinking about the team and it was very good to see that. That is why I think when a team becomes world champion, their sacrifice, taking all factors into consideration and team first attitude all these things matter, he elaborated. Kotak also reserved high praise for Shivam Dube, who amassed 235 runs in nine matches at an average of 39.16 and an impressive strike rate of 169.06. More than the numbers, Dubes cameos in both the semi-final and the final helped India post totals exceeding 250. The impact of Shivam was also very big. Look at the final - he made 26 runs in eight balls. In the semifinal, he chipped in with 43. He is a different level player now. In fact, all of them have their own beauty as batters. They play their own roles very well and according to the needs of the team. Kotak also reserved high praise for Shivam Dube, who amassed 235 runs in nine matches at an average of 39.16 and an impressive strike rate of 169.06. More than the numbers, Dubes cameos in both the semi-final and the final helped India post totals exceeding 250. Also Read: Live Cricket Score In both the semifinal and final, we posted totals above 250 runs. We have seen ups and downs in the competition, but they did well and were outstanding with the bat. We are so happy for our country that we won the World Cup in India. Article Source: IANS
Bhambri-Goransson pair reaches Indian Wells quarterfinals
Bhambri and Gransson will take on Alexander Erler of Austria and Andrea Vavassori from Italy in the last-eight stage of the tournament
Indian Premier League: With the 19th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) set to begin on March 28, former India captain Anil Kumble reflected on Royal Challengers Bengalurus long-awaited title triumph last year, crediting both Virat Kohlis influence and the teams improved bowling unit for their success. Kumble explained that while Kohli remained central to the franchises rise, the bowlers played a decisive role in helping the side clinch their maiden IPL crown. Virat plays a major part in RCB's success. But if you look at last year, whenever RCB were successful, their bowling unit also came to the fore, he said, speaking on JioStar. Kumble noted that RCBs attack delivered consistently throughout the campaign, with experienced pacers and a dynamic spin duo making key contributions, saying, I feel Josh Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar Kumar certainly contributed a lot. The two spinners, Krunal Pandya and Suyash Sharma, were also a surprise package. The bowling unit performed exceptionally well for them to win the trophy. He added that while Kohli remains the biggest draw for fans at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, the strength of the bowling lineup now gives supporters greater confidence in the teams ability to defend totals. So, I think the fans will certainly throng the Chinnaswamy Stadium to watch Virat Kohli. But I'm sure the fans will also be proud that they have a really strong bowling unit that can defend, he said. He also weighed in on the long-running debate over the most successful franchise in IPL history, placing the Mumbai Indians alongside the Chennai Super Kings as the benchmark teams in the league. MI is very close to, or almost the same as CSK when you talk about the greatest team in the IPL, because you can't really distinguish one from the other, he noted. He explained that the two franchises have taken different routes to sustained success, with CSK often relying on proven experience, while Mumbai have built their reputation by spotting emerging talent. CSK has always been consistent with their selections. They go for people who have been there and done that. Only last year did we see a few youngsters come through. Whereas MI has gone slightly out and looked at players whom nobody had seen before, some who had done well at the domestic level. So people like Hardik, Krunal and Jasprit all came through those ranks. And then we saw what happened. Recently, you had the likes of Nehal Wadhera, who has now moved to PBKS, but performed really well for MI, Kumble stated. Meanwhile, former India batter Cheteshwar Pujara shared his views on MS Dhonis batting role for CSK, suggesting the veteran could make a greater impact if he came in earlier in the order. I don't see a point in MS Dhoni batting at Number 8 or 9, because he has the potential to turn games around single-handedly, something no other batter in the CSK team can do. If he bats for only five or ten balls, imagine what Mahi bhai can do if he plays 25 or 30 balls, Pujara said. Meanwhile, former India batter Cheteshwar Pujara shared his views on MS Dhonis batting role for CSK, suggesting the veteran could make a greater impact if he came in earlier in the order. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I've been in the CSK setup. In that environment, players are very comfortable, it's like a family. When you're in that setup, there is clarity about what is expected of you as a player. Loyalty also comes into the picture because most of CSK's players, if you look at the history, once a player is part of that setup, he stays there for a long time. There is a transition in the team now, so there is a bit more preference for young players, Pujara added. Article Source: IANS
'Arey Kotsi Bhai, Don't Worry': Kotak Recalls Samsons Words Before His Stunning Resurgence
T20 World Cup: India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak has revealed the quiet confidence that preceded Sanju Samsons resurgent run to become the Player of the Tournament in a triumphant 2026 Mens T20 World Cup campaign, recalling how the wicketkeeper-batter promised that he was to contribute to the teams cause whenever the side needed him. Samson has been the toast of the cricket-loving nation still in euphoria of retaining the title on home soil following Indias 96-run triumph over New Zealand in the final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday. But reaching to this point wasnt rosy at all Samson made 46 runs in five T20Is against New Zealand in the run-up to the World Cup and his place in the playing eleven wasnt certain. The wicketkeeper-batter began by playing only once in the group stage against Namibia in New Delhi as stomach illness kept Abhishek Sharma out of the game. But a tactical shift during the Super Eights, after the 76-run loss to South Africa, saw Samson being recalled to break up a left-handed opening pair. Samson responded to the recall with a relentless resurgence through an unforgettable 97 not out in a must-win encounter against the West Indies before consecutive scores of 89 in the semi-final and final led Indias charge to winning their third Mens T20 World Cup title. I always used to tell Sanju that, Sanju, you don't know, sometimes in two or three days, an injury or form issue could come up or even a combination issue may appear. So you have to be ready. He has so much experience, but he would laugh and say, Arey Kotsi bhai, don't worry. Whenever the team needs me, I will contribute. He is such a lovely guy and I am so happy for him. Even after so many ups and downs, he rose to the occasion in the last three matches. The way he carried himself and played those three innings so smartly, it helped us hugely as he had big contributions in our wins, Kotak told IANS in an exclusive conversation. Samsons technique required a significant recalibration from the Indian team, especially with his trigger movement and being too deep in the crease hampering his natural strokeplay. Kotak explained how sustained efforts ensured Samsons stance was back to being stable, resulting in the famous stillness in his shots coming back for the business end of the competition. I got the technical changes done for Sanju - that was to create an early base for him. It was because it was looking like the trigger that he used to do before, in that he would keep both feet close. In that, weight comes more on one foot and technically such things happen. So his back foot movement was a little hampered. He was getting late in meeting well pitched-up deliveries bowled at a certain length. So that was a technical change and we were trying that for 6-8 months. When our series was not there, he was also trying to work on it because things like this take time. Skill wise, it happens in 3-4 weeks. But there are also mental doubts which creep in because he did that in some matches and despite it, he got out in different ways. Then the batter feels, I should do what I was used to doing, as it was better than this. So that is a mind game, but eventually he came good with this in what we were trying. So he is very happy and I am also very happy, he elaborated. After being an unused member in the 2024 Mens T20 World Cup win, Samson ended up amassing 321 runs across just five innings in 2026 to finish as Indias leading scorer and surpass the 319-run mark of Virat Kohli in 2014, making him the most prolific Indian batter in a single edition of the tournament. Samson also joined an elite club as only the third Indian to be named Player of the Tournament in a Mens T20 World Cup after Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah. For a player who has spent years navigating the ups and downs of cricket, especially at the international level, and had to face doubts over whether he could live up to the immense potential, the T20 World Cup victory marks a definitive and hard-earned chapter of redemption. Kotak also lauded head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Suryakumar Yadav for maintaining faith in Samsons ultra-attacking playing style. A lot of credit to the selectors, Gautam and Sanju also as even after so much criticism, they kept their faith in him. Sanju has that much class as a batter because in this short format, where high risk, high reward cricket works, if someone goes through bad form, it's tough for the players too. Its because they have to get going from ball one to hit sixes. At times, there comes a bit of mistiming or misjudgment and they get out. So that pressure again - it's not easy for the players. So for that, a lot of credit goes to the selectors, Gautam and Surya to keep that faith in Sanju. Seeing Samson get so much adulation and warmth from fans and cricketers worldwide in the aftermath of T20 World Cup triumph made Kotak go on a trip down the memory lane, when he first saw the wicketkeeper-batter during the India A series against South Africa in September 2019. See, Sanju is actually in the teams leadership group because he was the captain of RR for so many years. His temperament and belief is known to all and also, I have known Sanju for a long time, but got a chance to work with him when he was with me in the India A team in 2019. He was in the last two matches of the series against South Africa. In the last match, it was a one-day game and it was a 20-over fixture because of the rain affecting the game. In that, I sent him at number three in the game in Thiruvananthapuram. In 48 balls, he made some 90 (91) runs against a bowling attack featuring Anrich Nortje, Marco Jansen, Beuran Hendricks, Junior Dala and the captain of the South African team was Temba Bavuma. The way Sanju batted that day, I knew he had it in him to do something big in future. Then in 2023, when the senior team was preparing for the Test series in South Africa under Rahul Dravid bhai and other senior staff members, I became India's head coach for three ODI matches, where KL Rahul was the captain. I remember before the third match, he was batting in the back-end of the batting order. In that, I sent him at number three in the game in Thiruvananthapuram. In 48 balls, he made some 90 (91) runs against a bowling attack featuring Anrich Nortje, Marco Jansen, Beuran Hendricks, Junior Dala and the captain of the South African team was Temba Bavuma. The way Sanju batted that day, I knew he had it in him to do something big in future. Also Read: Live Cricket Score So I will give as much credit to Gautam and Surya that they kept their faith in Sanju and we know how good he is and it felt great to see him deliver in those must-win games. What Sanju did was so, so important. In the last three matches, Sanju's maturity, fearless style and the shots he played were unbelievable, concluded Kotak. Article Source: IANS
The ODI World Cup: Indias T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav opened up about some of the personal conversations he had that shaped the teams triumphant campaign at the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, revealing how belief, trust and team spirit played a crucial role behind the scenes. Surya reflected on emotional exchanges with several squad members, including Ishan and Sanju. The skipper said the willingness of players to put the team first, regardless of their role, was one of the defining features of Indias victorious World Cup journey. The stories of some players in our World Cup squad have been very inspiring and emotional. If you talk about Siraj, I called him a few days before the tournament. He was sitting with his friends, wearing a cap and eating food. I told him Harshit Rana is injured, you have to join the squad. He said, 'Surya bhai, are you kidding me?' That was his first reaction. Then I called Ishan Kishan just before our selection meeting. I told him, 'Chotu, will you help us win the World Cup?' He said, 'Surya bhaiya, just trust me and have faith in me.' The way Ishan has walked the talk has been a lovely story. Sanju Samson did not start the tournament. He came in the middle and said one thing: 'You just tell me what I can do for the team.' That is the biggest blessing. Players like these, from number 1 to 15, everyone has a different story. And Jasprit Bumrah, I have called him a national treasure. He does the same thing every day. Bumrah knows he is the best in the business. But still, he does not allow any complacency to enter. I think that shows a lot of character, SKY said on JioStar. He also spoke about the emotional significance of winning the World Cup at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, the same venue where his international journey began. It's a very special feeling to win the T20 World Cup here at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. My journey in international cricket started here in 2021. As soon as it started, it was a lot of fun from there. Then coming here in 2026 and winning the T20 World Cup as a leader for India is a very special feeling. It feels good to be in the same stadium that so many people were talking about. Winning here was very special for the whole team, he said. The Indian captain also highlighted the less visible challenge of leading a World Cup-winning side, ensuring that players not in the playing XI remained motivated and mentally ready throughout the tournament. In this T20 World Cup campaign, the most difficult part for me was handling the players who don't get many opportunities to feature in the playing XI. Those who don't get chances, or get very few, I always felt I should spend more time with them. The ones who keep playing are in autopilot mode. They know what to do. But those who can play at any time but don't get to feature in every game, it is difficult for them to switch on and switch off. So spending time with them and having constant talks was very important. The support staff also played a key role in this long journey. They are not playing, but they are supporting all the players. Talking to them, sharing their journey, experiencing it... those were all very sweet moments for me. Sometimes I had to take hard calls. But at the end of the day, everyone's goal is the same. We all want to become champions. Only 11 players can play to win a trophy. So making everyone understand and taking care of everyone is important. Leading a team with that thinking is a lot of fun, he said. During the tournament, Surya also spent considerable time backing players going through difficult phases, particularly Abhishek Sharma and Varun Chakaravarthy, reminding them that temporary setbacks are a natural part of sport. I was constantly having conversations with Abhishek and Varun throughout the T20 World Cup. I told them one thing, it is not necessary that you will perform well in every game. Performance is not guaranteed. After one year of hard work, sometimes a small dip in form happens. It is very important to respect that too. Because this is sport. You will see more failures than success. So respecting that time is important. When you respect that time and take two steps back, it is like a bow and arrow. When you pull the arrow back, it does not mean life is pushing you back. It means it is going to launch you for something big. I told both the world number ones, Abhishek and Varun, that you are made for the big stage. No matter what happens. Even if you don't perform well in seven games, it is okay. If we reach the final, you will play and dominate. It was written in their destiny that both would perform well in the final. And it happened. They did not stop working hard. Abhishek and Varun were always disciplined and stayed put to cricket. They got their reward in the final, he mentioned. I was constantly having conversations with Abhishek and Varun throughout the T20 World Cup. I told them one thing, it is not necessary that you will perform well in every game. Performance is not guaranteed. After one year of hard work, sometimes a small dip in form happens. It is very important to respect that too. Because this is sport. You will see more failures than success. So respecting that time is important. When you respect that time and take two steps back, it is like a bow and arrow. Also Read: Live Cricket Score In 2024, our ICC trophy drought ended after we won the T20 World Cup. After that, we won the Champions Trophy and now the T20 World Cup here in Ahmedabad. So three back-to-back ICC trophies. There is nothing to look back now. Whatever ICC event comes next, we will play the way we have been playing since 2024. The ODI World Cup will come in 2027. As for this T20 team, I don't think we can relax. We cannot relax at all. In 2028, there is a bigger event than this. The LA Olympics will have cricket for the first time. That Olympic gold will definitely be our top priority. And the same year, there is the T20 World Cup again. We have won the trophy two times in a row, three times in a row is the next goal. Article Source: IANS
Kishan jumps to second in T20I batting rankings
Varun was the joint-highest wicket-taking but lost the No. 1 spot among bowlers to Afghanistan's Rashid
T20I Rankings: Abhishek Maintain Top Spot; Ishan Moves To Second With Career-high Rating
T20I Rankings: India's title-winning run at the recent ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 saw India batters rewarded in the latest rankings released by the ICC on Wednesday, with the side now holding the top two ranked players on the list for T20I batters. Young opener Abhishek Sharma has held on to his lead at the top following his quickfire half-century against the Black Caps in the T20 World Cup final, while fellow opener Ishan Kishan is now his closest rival after he moved up two places to second overall after his 317 runs at the tournament, ICC reports. Kishan earned a new career-high rating to trail Abhishek by just four rating points. Moreover, India duo Sanju Samson (up 18 rungs to 22nd) and Shivam Dube (up four places to 27th) moved further up the batting ranks following some good efforts at the tournament. Meanwhile, New Zealand opener Tim Seifert moved four places to sixth and England's Jacob Bethell (up 17 rungs to 16th) also improved to the best marks of their career following some dominant knocks during the T20 World Cup. There were also gains for New Zealand opener Finn Allen, broke the record for the fastest century ever at a Men's T20 World Cup with a 33-ball knock against South Africa in the semi-finals, as he climbed seven slots to 20th. There was a change at the top of the rankings for T20I bowlers, with India spinner Varun Chakravarthy losing the premier position to Afghanistan spinner Rashid Khan following the completion of the T20 World Cup. Chakravarthy dropped to second as Rashid claimed the No.1 ranking despite not playing any matches over the last week. England spinner Adil Rashid moved up one spot to fourth, while India pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah placed sixth and Axar Patel (up six slots to 17th) also rewarded for some decent efforts during the T20 World Cup. There was a change at the top of the rankings for T20I bowlers, with India spinner Varun Chakravarthy losing the premier position to Afghanistan spinner Rashid Khan following the completion of the T20 World Cup. Also Read: Live Cricket Score New Zealand captain also claimed a new career-best rating by jumping three spots to ninth for T20I all-rounders, while England's Will Jacks (up five slots to 13th) made gains following his impressive tournament at the T20 World Cup. Article Source: IANS
Bangladesh opt to field, Pakistan hand four debuts
Sahibzada Farhan, Maaz Sadaqat, Shamyl Hussain and Abdul Samad are the four debutants for the visitors
CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan: Chennai Super Kings (CSK) CEO Kasi Viswanathan said that veteran wicketkeeper-batter MS Dhoni is likely to play all matches in the upcoming edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) while also stating that a final decision of his playing role will be taken by the team management. The 19th edition of the IPL is set to begin on March 28, and all franchises have already begun their training camps to prepare for the cash-rich event. Players who were a part of the recently concluded T20 World Cup will soon join their respective franchises and start training for the tournament. With CSK legend Dhoni set to appear in the IPL 2026 for the Men in Yellow, there were concerns about the wicketkeeper-batter participating in all the games, given his age. However, Kasi debunked all such concerns and said, He will play all the matches, according to me. Asked what role hes likely to takeup in the tournament, with another keeper-batter Samson now in the team, he added, That I cannot say. That is a cricketing decision which will be taken by the cricketing staff. Not by the administrative staff. So they will decide whether he is going to play as a batsman or as a wicketkeeper-batter, or as an impact player. The tournaments schedule is likely to be announced on Thursday, keeping in mind the electoral process thats set to begin in the country. Kasi confirmed that the five-time champions will play all their home matches in Chennai, saying, We are supposed to play only in Tamil Nadu only. So we are waiting for the schedule to be announced by the BCCI. Asked what role hes likely to takeup in the tournament, with another keeper-batter Samson now in the team, he added, That I cannot say. That is a cricketing decision which will be taken by the cricketing staff. Not by the administrative staff. So they will decide whether he is going to play as a batsman or as a wicketkeeper-batter, or as an impact player. Also Read: Live Cricket Score When asked about the players preparations in the camp, he said, Practice is going on well, no problems so far. Article Source: IANS
Cricket Australia Stands Firm On Pink-ball Test Plan For 2029-30 Home Ashes
CEO Todd Greenberg: Cricket Australia (CA) CEO Todd Greenberg has reaffirmed its intention to include a day-night Test in the 202930 mens Ashes series, pushing back against recent reports suggesting that the fixture had already been ruled out. During the most recent Ashes series in Australia, the day-night Test was staged in Brisbane, where the hosts secured an eight-wicket victory. Englands record in such matches on Australian soil remains poor; they have played four pink-ball Tests there and lost each by sizeable margins. Earlier this season, England batter Joe Root even questioned whether a day-night Test was necessary during an Ashes series, given the traditionally high interest surrounding the contest. Despite the debate, CA chief executive Todd Greenberg said there had been no formal request from England to remove the format from the series. They haven't requested it (to be dropped). Pleasingly, we don't play them here until 2029, so I've got a little bit of time to work this one out. It's a part of our broadcast contracts. It's clearly a big part of our summer (and) it clearly works here in this country, Greenberg told SEN radio. We've shown it works in Adelaide. It certainly worked last year in Brisbane. It's our plan to continue at least one of those in a summer. If we need to work with our comrades at the ECB to help them prepare better or have practice matches, we'll do all those sort of things. We'll have that dialogue if and when needed, he added. The governing bodys current broadcast agreement, which runs through 2031, requires at least one pink-ball Test each Australian summer. These matches have consistently drawn strong television audiences, making them a key feature of the domestic Test schedule. Asked whether England should expect to encounter another pink-ball Test on their next Ashes tour of Australia, Greenberg made the boards position clear, stating, That's certainly our expectation, yes. Greenberg made the remarks while marking the countdown to the 150th anniversary Test between Australia and England, scheduled for next March at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The historic match will also be played with the pink ball. Interest in the occasion has already been significant. Cricket Australia launched its first-ever ticket ballot for the event and expects crowds exceeding 90,000 across the opening three days. Although some critics have questioned the decision to commemorate such a historic milestone with a day-night Test, Greenberg believes the format will enhance rather than diminish the events appeal. Greenberg made the remarks while marking the countdown to the 150th anniversary Test between Australia and England, scheduled for next March at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The historic match will also be played with the pink ball. Also Read: Live Cricket Score It's also a bit of a nod to say we're at 150 years of Australia and England Test matches, and we've got to continue to challenge ourselves and evolve. I'm not suggesting for one minute that every Test match should be a pink ball game, but pink balls have a place to play in this country. Anyone who is against it just needs to look through the prism of we'll have double the amount of people watching a particular session than we ordinarily do, and you can't turn away from that, Greenberg added. Article Source: IANS
AFG Vs SL White-ball Series Postponed To Late 2026 Due To Middle East Cricis: ACB
The Afghanistan Cricket Board: The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) announced on Wednesday that the bilateral series between Afghanistan and Sri Lanka, which was initially set to start on March 13 in the United Arab Emirates, has been pushed to late 2026, citing logistical issues, including flight restrictions due to current regional circumstances, as the reason. The tour, which would have marked Afghanistans first time hosting Sri Lanka, was set to include six white-ball fixtures. Three T20 Internationals were scheduled to be played at Sharjah Cricket Stadium on March 13, 15, and 17, before the action moved to Dubai International Cricket Stadium for three One Day Internationals on March 20, 22, and 25. Following the receipt of the required sanction from the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB), preparations had been finalised to host the matches at both venues. However, in early March, unforeseen developments created logistical constraints that affected travel arrangements and operational planning for the series. To address the situation, the Afghanistan Cricket Board held a series of consultations with key stakeholders, including the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB), Sharjah Cricket Stadium (SCS), and Dubai International Cricket Stadium (DICS). A joint meeting convened by the ACB on 4 March resulted in a recommendation to monitor the situation and reassess by 6 March, in the hope that conditions would improve. A subsequent follow-up meeting on 7 March recommended waiting until 9 March before making a final determination, the ACB said in a statement. Following the receipt of the required sanction from the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB), preparations had been finalised to host the matches at both venues. However, in early March, unforeseen developments created logistical constraints that affected travel arrangements and operational planning for the series. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Despite the collective efforts of all parties to proceed with the event as planned, the logistical challenges remained beyond operational control, leading to the decision to postpone the series and explore rescheduling options. The Afghanistan Cricket Board extends its sincere appreciation to the Emirates Cricket Board, Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Dubai International Cricket Stadium, and Sri Lanka Cricket for their continued cooperation and support in addressing this matter and safeguarding the interests of all parties involved. ACB remains committed to delivering the series at the earliest suitable opportunity and to continuing its strong cricketing relationship with Sri Lanka Cricket, the board stated further. Article Source: IANS
Maha CM Devendra Fadnavis Felicitates Captain Suryakumar Yadav, Shivam Dube After T20 WC Glory
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis felicitated T20 World Cup-winning captain Suryakumar Yadav and all-rounder Shivam Dube at his residence. The Chief Minister, who was also accompanied by his wife Amruta Fadnavis, appreciated Team Indias remarkable triumph in the ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026. Chief Minister of Maharashtra Devendra Fadnavis Sir felicitated Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav and Shivam Dube, appreciating Team Indias remarkable triumph in the ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026. A proud moment celebrating Indias cricketing excellence, the Mumbai Cricket Association posted the visual from the meeting on Instagram. Dube also shared the glimpses of his meeting with the Chief Minister on Instagram with a caption, Honoured to meet Honourable Chief Minister @devendra_fadnavis sir and Mrs @amruta.fadnavis maam. A special moment and truly encouraging. Led superbly by Captain Suryakumar Yadav, the Indian team displayed a brand of fearless and dynamic cricket throughout the tournament. Combining explosive batting, disciplined bowling and outstanding fielding, the team maintained consistency across all phases of the competition and rose to the occasion in the most demanding moments India exorcised the demons of 2023, when they had lost the ODI World Cup final at the very stadium, as they defeated New Zealand by 96 runs. It culminated a brilliant run at the tournament, as India have lost just one match in the last two T20 World Cups. Led superbly by Captain Suryakumar Yadav, the Indian team displayed a brand of fearless and dynamic cricket throughout the tournament. Combining explosive batting, disciplined bowling and outstanding fielding, the team maintained consistency across all phases of the competition and rose to the occasion in the most demanding moments Also Read: Live Cricket Score Indias triumph marks a historic achievement as the team successfully defends the ICC Mens T20 World Cup title, becoming the first side in the history of the tournament to retain the trophy. The victory also carries special significance as India became the first nation to win the ICC Mens T20 World Cup on home soil, making the occasion even more memorable for millions of fans. Article Source: IANS
Kohli Starts Preparations For IPL 2026; RCB Say, 'run Machine Looks Well Oiled'
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: India and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) stalwart Virat Kohli has started his preparations for the upcoming 19th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL), which is set to begin on March 28. Kohli shared a video of himself hitting powerful shots in the nets as he began training. The 39-year-old appeared in good form as he picked up the bat and smacked some impressive hits at the training centre in the United Kingdom. In the video that he shared on Instagram, Kohli can be seen sweating it out in the indoor nets, and he captioned the post IPL 2026 with a sandclock emoticon. The franchise also shared the video, writing, The run machine looks well oiled. Lets start #IPL2026 already. They also made a special edit for the iconic cricketer, who completed 18 years with the franchise on Wednesday and is set for his 19th edition with the side. Sharing the post, RCB wrote, 19 seasons, 1 team, 1 legendary name. From a promising youngster in 2008 to an irreplaceable icon of the franchise. #OnThisDay 18 years ago, we signed Virat Kohli through the U-19 Player Draft at the first ever #IPLAuction. Years later, the journey continues with the same passion, the same loyalty, and the same King inspiring all the way. Kohli played a vital role in RCB's ending their IPL title drought in 2025. In the previous season, he was the team's top run-scorer, scoring 657 runs in 15 innings with a strike rate of 144.71. Sharing the post, RCB wrote, 19 seasons, 1 team, 1 legendary name. From a promising youngster in 2008 to an irreplaceable icon of the franchise. #OnThisDay 18 years ago, we signed Virat Kohli through the U-19 Player Draft at the first ever #IPLAuction. Years later, the journey continues with the same passion, the same loyalty, and the same King inspiring all the way. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Having retired from both Tests and T20Is, Kohli is now active in only one format across international cricket: the ODIs. While he retired from the longest format of the game last year, the former Indian captain retired from T20Is after Indias World Cup victory in 2024, on the day of the final, where they defeated South Africa in Barbados. Article Source: IANS
Amelia Kerr's all-round brilliance seals NZ's 3-0 sweep over Zimbabwe
The new New Zealand captain scored 80 before returning to claim 5 for 22, including a hat-trick, as Zimbabwe were bundled out cheaply
Pink-ball Ashes Test still part of Cricket Australia's plans
The 150th anniversary Test next March will be a day-night contest with crowds of 90,000 expected for the first three days
Gaddafi Stadium to host opening game and final of PSL 2026
The tournament will be concentrated in Lahore and Rawalpindi with 26 of the league's 44 matches in those two cities
Santner To Lead NZ Squad For Five Match T20I Series Against SA
New Zealand T20I: Mitchell Santner will lead an expanded New Zealand men's cricket team squad in the upcoming five-match T20I series against South Africa. New Zealand finished second in ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 after losing India to 96 runs. The series will kick off at Bay Oval on Sunday. It will feature double-header match days alongside the New Zealand women's national team and the South Africa women's T20I series. Several Blackcaps players returned home after losing the World Cup final to India in Ahmedabad. Selectors have decided to effectively name two squads to manage player workloads. Santner will be joined by Devon Conway and Lockie Ferguson for the first three matches. Kyle Jamieson, Cole McConchie, Jimmy Neesham, Ben Sears, and Ish Sodhi are available for the entire series after lighter workloads during the global tournament. The double-header matches will follow quickly after the opener. The schedule includes games at Seddon Park on Tuesday and Eden Park on Friday, March 20, before the last two matches in Wellington and Christchurch. New Zealand also recognized domestic performers by including top-order batters Katene Clarke and Nick Kelly, along with spinner Jayden Lennox, who are in line to make their T20I debuts during the series. Clarke received his first call-up after an impressive Super Smash season where he led the tournament's run charts with 431 runs, including an unbeaten century that helped Northern Brave win the domestic T20 title. Katene is someone we've been watching for a while now, so it was great to see him excel in the Super Smash and earn his first BLACKCAPS selection, said selector Gavin Larsen. He's an explosive player with plenty of power and a variety of shots. He has shown he can be destructive in the power play, but he can also bat deep in an innings. Lennox earned his first T20 call-up after a strong performance during his ODI debut series against India in January. He recorded figures of 3-84 across 20 overs against a competitive batting line-up. Kelly has been a reliable performer for the Wellington Firebirds and gets his first T20 opportunity after making his ODI debut against Pakistan last year. The extended squad also includes Josh Clarkson, Zak Foulkes, Bevon Jacobs, and Tim Robinson for the entire five-match series. Clarkson makes his return to the side for the first time since playing in eight T20Is in 2024. Veteran wicketkeeper-batter Tom Latham also returns to the T20 setup after a successful Super Smash season with Canterbury Kings. He will take over the captaincy from Santner for the final two matches. Tom's selection comes after a strong Super Smash season at the top of the order for the Kings, Larsen said. He will bring his quality and experience, but equally important is his leadership, which we will also call on for the upcoming white-ball tour to Bangladesh in April. With Conway set to leave after three matches, wicketkeeper Dane Cleaver will join the squad for the second half of the series. This marks his first appearance in the Blackcaps setup since 2023. Several regulars, including Finn Allen, Mark Chapman, Jacob Duffy, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, and Tim Seifert will miss the series to rest after the World Cup. Fast bowler Matt Henry has been given time off to spend with his newborn child. New Zealand T20I squad: Mitchell Santner (c), Katene Clarke, Josh Clarkson, Dane Cleaver (wk), Devon Conway (wk), Lockie Ferguson, Zak Foulkes, Bevon Jacobs, Kyle Jamieson, Nick Kelly, Tom Latham (wk), Jayden Lennox, Cole McConchie, Jimmy Neesham, Tim Robinson, Ben Sears, Nathan Smith, Ish Sodhi. Series schedule (T20I double-headers) 1st T20I - Bay Oval, Tauranga, March 15 2nd T20I - Seddon Park, Hamilton, March 17 3rd T20I - Eden Park, Auckland, March 20 2nd T20I - Seddon Park, Hamilton, March 17 Also Read: Live Cricket Score 5th T20I - Hagley Oval, Christchurch, March 25 Article Source: IANS
T20 WC: West Indies Players Depart India After Nine-day Wait
Cricket West Indies: Cricket West Indies (CWI) have confirmed that commercial travel arrangements have been secured for members of the West Indies national cricket team currently in India after continued delays with a charter flight organised by the International Cricket Council (ICC). West Indies are one of the teams stranded in India due to the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict leading to the closure of the airspace in West Asia. In the interest of the well-being and safety of its players and support staff, Cricket West Indies advised the ICC that it was no longer prudent to continue waiting on the charter arrangements, which remain uncertain. Multiple approaches have since been made through CWI, players, and other partners, in coordination with the ICC, to secure commercial travel to facilitate the squads safe return. It is important to note that some players and staff have already departed, with the remaining members scheduled to depart today, Tuesday, 10th March, and tomorrow, Wednesday, 11th March 2026, CWI said in a statement. Cricket West Indies appreciates the concern and interest of fans and key stakeholders in the resolution of this matter and wishes to thank all parties for their support and patience, the statement further added. Just like the West Indies, Zimbabwe played their last match at the T20 World Cup on March 1, losing to South Africa by five wickets in their Super Eights clash in New Delhi. They were to depart in three batches earlier, but the plan was cancelled due to airspace restrictions. Cricket West Indies appreciates the concern and interest of fans and key stakeholders in the resolution of this matter and wishes to thank all parties for their support and patience, the statement further added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score An ICC official told IANS that the Zimbabwe team will travel to Harare from New Delhi via Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia. Article Source: IANS
Santner, Latham to share captaincy duties in T20I series against South Africa
Jayden Lennox and Katene Clarke earn maiden T20I call-ups
BAN vs PAK 1st ODI Prediction, Match Preview And Playing XI
BAN vs PAK 1stODI , Cricket Tips :Bangladesh and Pakistan will be up against each other for a three-match ODI series. The first ODI will be held at Shere Bangla National Stadium on Wednesday at 1:45 PM IST. Pakistan had yet another ICC event, where they failed to make it to the knockouts. That resulted in Pakistan dropping several superstars. Babar Azam, Saim Ayub, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, and Fakhar Zaman will not be in action. Shaheen Afridi will lead a second-string side, which has new faces like Maaz Sadaqat, Saad Masood, Shamyl Hussain, and Ghazi Ghori. Bangladesh have all their aces up their sleeves, and they have a chance to beat Pakistan in this series. BAN vs PAK: Match Details Date : March 11, 2026 (Wednesday) Time : 1:45 PM IST Venue : Shere Bangla National Stadium, Dhaka BAN vs PAK: Live Streaming Details There is no option to watch the ODI series on cable TV networks in India. Fans can watch the game through the FanCode streaming platform. BAN vs PAK: Head-to-Head in ODI Total Matches : 39 Bangladesh : 5 Pakistan : 34 No result/Tied: 0 BAN vs PAK: Ground Pitch Report The wicket in Dhaka is very good for the slow bowlers. There will be assistance for the seamers with the new ball, and spinners will have a big role in the match. There is a prediction of rain, and chasing will be recommended in this situation. It is a low-scoring venue. BAN vs PAK: Possible XIs Bangladesh : Najmul Hossain Shanto, Soumya Sarkar, Saif Hassan, Tawhid Hridoy, Litton Das (wk), Mehidy Hasan Miraz (c), Mahidul Islam Bhuiyan, Rishad Hossain, Tanvir Islam, Mustafizur Rahman, Taskin Ahmed Pakistan : Sahibzada Farhan, Shamyl Hussain, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Abdul Samad, Salman Ali Agha, Maaz Sadaqat, Saad Masood, Shaheen Afridi (c), Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed, Faisal Akram BAN vs PAK: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Sahibzada Farhan was the top scorer in the T20 World Cup 2026. He is in red-hot form and will look to cash in on this ODI series. For Bangladesh, Litton Das is the key. He will be the one to watch out for. Probable Best Bowler Abrar Ahmed will be very deceptive on this slow track in Dhaka and will be tough to face. For Bangladesh, Rishad Hossain has been the go-to spinner in the middle overs. Today Match Prediction : Pakistan have a great record against Bangladesh, but their current squad is inexperienced with the bat. Hence, we predict Bangladesh to beat Pakistan in the first ODI. BAN vs PAK Match 1st ODI, Today Match BAN vs PAK, BAN vs PAK Prediction, BAN vs PAK Predicted XIs, Injury Update for BAN vs PAK Match Also Read: Live Cricket Score Disclaimer : The prediction or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.
West Indies players to fly home from Kolkata on commercial flights
South Africa's travel arrangements, however, remain unclear
Pakistan to field four debutants during first ODI against Bangladesh
Sahibzada Farhan, Shamyl Hussain, Abdul Samad and Maaz Sadaqat will put on a competitive Pakistan ODI shirt for the first time
Afridi focuses on the future as Pakistan go with three debutants
After batting in different positions, Mehidy confirmed he will slot in at No. 7 for Bangladesh
Zimbabwe's Ndhlovu Ruled Out Of Third ODI Against New Zealand After Concussion Scare
New Zealand: Zimbabwe women's cricket team have suffered a big blow ahead of the final match of the three-match ODI series against New Zealand to be played at the University Oval on Wednesday as their opener Kelis Ndhlovu has been ruled out of the clash after sustaining a concussion during the second match played at the same ground on Sunday. Ndhlovu is currently recovering and remains under medical supervision following the incident. In an official update, Zimbabwe Cricket confirmed that Ndhlovu briefly lost consciousness after the blow and was later diagnosed with a concussion. However, the board added that there were no serious complications from the injury. An MRI scan later confirmed there was no skull fracture, ZC said. She was treated and subsequently discharged from the hospital. Ndhlovu returned for a follow-up examination on Tuesday morning, where further tests confirmed there were no additional complications, Zimbabwe cricket said in an official statement. The injury occurred during the seventh over of Zimbabwes innings when Ndhlovu was struck on the head by a short delivery from New Zealand pacer Bree Illing. At the time, Ndhlovu had shared a 25-run opening partnership with Modester Mupachikwa. She attempted to duck under the bouncer but was hit despite wearing a helmet. The impact caused her to collapse immediately, prompting urgent medical attention on the field before she was transported to the hospital by ambulance. Following the incident, Tendai Makusha was introduced as Ndhlovus concussion substitute. At the time, Ndhlovu had shared a 25-run opening partnership with Modester Mupachikwa. She attempted to duck under the bouncer but was hit despite wearing a helmet. The impact caused her to collapse immediately, prompting urgent medical attention on the field before she was transported to the hospital by ambulance. Also Read: Live Cricket Score New Zealand have previously clinched the T20I series by a margin of 3-0, and they would look to end the ODI series in the same way when they face Zimbabwe on Wednesday. Article Source: IANS
Bihar: Ishan Kishan Receives Grand Welcome In Patna After T20 Victory
Bihar Sports Minister Shreyasi Singh: Indian cricketer and Bihars son Ishan Kishan received a grand welcome in Patna on Tuesday after returning from the victorious campaign in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. The wicketkeeper-batter arrived at Patna Airport, where he was warmly received by Bihar Sports Minister Shreyasi Singh. She congratulated the entire Indian national cricket team for the historic victory and welcomed Kishan back to his home state. Speaking to media persons at the airport, Ishan Kishan described the World Cup triumph as a moment of pride for the entire nation. He said the teams victory was a major achievement for the country and expressed hope that the Indian team would continue performing and winning in the future. Encouraging young players from Bihar and Jharkhand, Kishan emphasised that hard work is the key to success. He said that strong performances by players from the region can inspire young talent at the grassroots level. No matter where you are from, if you work hard, you can progress. I always try to inspire children even at the district level, he said. After the World Cup victory, a political debate erupted over captain Suryakumar Yadav, head coach Gautam Gambhir and Jay Shah, chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC), reportedly taking the trophy to a temple. Former cricketer and politician Kirti Azad had raised objections to the move. When asked about the controversy, Ishan Kishan chose not to comment and instead highlighted the significance of the teams victory. We won such a good World Cup, so you should ask a good question related to that. This is not a question at all, he said. When asked about the controversy, Ishan Kishan chose not to comment and instead highlighted the significance of the teams victory. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Kishans return has generated special excitement among cricket fans in Bihar, who celebrated the achievement of the young cricketer who has risen from the state to the global stage. Article Source: IANS
Sahibzada, Sadaqat And Hussain To Make ODI Debut Against Bangladesh: Shaheen Afridi
Shere Bangla National Stadium: Pakistan captain Shaheen Afridi has confirmed that three players will make their debut in the 50-over format when the team faces Bangladesh in the first ODI match of the three-match series to be played at the Shere Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka on Wednesday. According to the skipper, Sahibzada Farhan, who was in excellent form during the recently concluded T20 World Cup 2026 and scored a record 383 runs in just seven matches along with Maaz Sadaqat and Shamyl Hussain, will play their first match for the team in ODIs. There will be like three debuts, of course. Sahibzada is the top performer in T20s and also in List A cricket for Pakistan. Maaz Sadaqat will open, and Shamyl Hussain will play at one down. These three will make their debut. Hopefully, they will play their own game and show their skills, Afridi said in the pre-match press conference as quoted by The Daily Star. We are excited to see them play for Pakistan, not just for one series but with the future in mind. They have experience playing here. They have played the Bangladesh league here. Sahibzada and Maaz have played here, and a few others were also involved last year. They are familiar with the grounds and conditions, and I hope they will play their best cricket, he added. Pakistan are in good form in the ODI Format. The team has secured victories over South Africa and Sri Lanka at home in the last two series while Bangladesh have also defeated West Indies in the last ODI series. Speaking about the recent form, Shaheen said that they expect a tough contest between both sides as they prepare for the upcoming ODI World Cup 2027 to be played in South Africa. Pakistan are in good form in the ODI Format. The team has secured victories over South Africa and Sri Lanka at home in the last two series while Bangladesh have also defeated West Indies in the last ODI series. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Pakistan have made a big change in their squad for the series. They have dropped Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman and Saim Ayub from the team. Article Source: IANS
Arshdeep Singh fined, handed demerit point for incident with Daryl Mitchell
The incident occurred in the 11th over of NZ's chase in the final, when Arshdeep threw the ball towards the stumps, striking Daryl Mitchell on the pads
'My Performance Will Motivate Young Kids,' Says Kishan On Reaching Hometown After Winning T20 WC
T20 World Cup: India's wicketkeeper batter Ishan Kishan said that he hopes to inspire young players through his performance as he arrives at the Patna Airport after playing a major role in India's T20 World Cup 2026 triumph. Kishan was accompanied by his father, Pranav Pandey, and received a grand welcome by the fans, who welcomed the champion player by chanting his name. Kishan, who made a strong return to the Indian side just before the World Cup, feels that his inspiring comeback could motivate young players here in the city. Our team won, obviously, it is a very good thing, not only for us, but for the whole nation. We hope to continue playing cricket like this and keep winning, Kishan said to the media at the airport. It feels great because I believe the better I perform, the more motivation it will be for the young kids here who want to grow. I always try to ensure as many players as possible emerge from every corner. Now that we've played the World Cup, it shows that with hard work, you can succeed from anywhere, he added. Kishan also scolded the reporters for asking questions on Kirti Azad's tweet, in which the cricketer turned politician criticised the captain of the Indian cricket team, Surya Kumar Yadav and the Chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC) Jay Shah for taking the T20 World Cup trophy to a temple in Ahmedabad. Sir, we have won such a great World Cup. Please ask a good question. What should I say about what Kirti Azad said? Please ask something meaningful, like how much fun it was or what the experience was like, Kishan said. Kishan, who became the second-highest run scorer for India in the T20 World Cup 2026 after hammering 317 runs in nine innings at an average of 35.22 and a strike rate of over 193, with three fifties, including one in the finals, spoke about his plans for the future. Nothing much, just keep scoring runs, keep playing, and keep winning, he said. Kishan, who became the second-highest run scorer for India in the T20 World Cup 2026 after hammering 317 runs in nine innings at an average of 35.22 and a strike rate of over 193, with three fifties, including one in the finals, spoke about his plans for the future. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Kishan will now take part in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, where he will represent his team, Sunrisers Hyderabad, who have retained the batter ahead of the tournament. Article Source: IANS
Bangladesh, Pakistan start afresh with 2027 World Cup in mind
Pakistan have six uncapped players in their squad while Bangladesh are set to try a new middle order combination
'Eat Good Food And Sleep For Two Days,' SKY Reveals His Plans After Indias T20 WC Triumph
T20 World Cup: India captain Suryakumar Yadav said his immediate plan after leading the team to another ICC Men's T20 World Cup title is simple: return home, enjoy some good food and catch up on much-needed rest before shifting focus to upcoming challenges. India clinched the silverware on Sunday, beating New Zealand by 96 runs in the summit clash to become the first team ever to win the tournament on home soil. With the feat, India also became the first team to defend their crown, and the only side to have won the cup thrice. Reflecting on the achievement, Suryakumar said the triumph belonged as much to the fans as it did to the players.You guys celebrated equally with us. Congratulations to all of you. Winning the World Cup in India is very special. It feels really good here. There was support and prayers from so many people, Surya told reporters outside his residence in Mumbai. The India skipper also spoke about sharing the special moment with his family, particularly his parents, who had been part of the celebrations. They were with me when we won. Even after coming back, I spoke to them. Now we will sit together calmly for a couple of days and talk peacefully. Looking ahead, Suryakumar revealed that the team is already thinking about the sports Olympic debut at the 2028 Summer Olympics. 100 per cent. The teams next aim is to win an Olympic gold for India in 2028. And that same year there will again be the T20 World Cup, so we will try our best to achieve a hat-trick of T20 World Cup wins as well. During the celebrations, chants of Surya! Surya! echoed through the crowd, something the captain said reminded him of the iconic chants once reserved for Sachin Tendulkar. The Sachin Sachin chant is completely deserved! He is the God of Cricket. He showed us the path. He played cricket for India for so many years. But this was a very special feeling for us too. He is with us in the Mumbai Indians, so we keep talking to him. It feels great that we won in Ahmedabad, and you all know how important it was to win in Ahmedabad. Suryakumar credited former India captain Rohit Sharma for placing faith in him when he took over the leadership role. Under his captaincy, we won the T20 World Cup in 2024 as a team. After that, when Jay Shah was the BCCI secretary (he is now the ICC chairman), Rohit bhai stepped down from captaincy. At that time, he showed faith in me. For the last two years, I have led this team well, and now we have won the World Cup. He showed great trust in me, and it feels great to win. This victory is for the whole of India. He also revealed the advice Rohit had given him before the tournament began. Bohot acha reaction tha unka. Kyunki tournament se pehle mai unse mila tha aur unhone mujhe bataya bhi tha ki ICC tournaments me kaise khelna hota hai. Unhone kaha tha ki team achi hai aapki aur aap log courageous hoke khelna. Aap log ki hi jeet hogi. The captain acknowledged the controversies involving Pakistan and Bangladesh during the tournament but said the ultimate focus remained on lifting the trophy. It feels amazing to win the World Cup. Our goal was that if an ICC event is happening in India and you win such a big tournament at home, it brings immense happiness. From the day we won until now, the entire country has been celebrating and this joy will continue for a long time. Suryakumar said the team handled the pressure of defending titles by trusting their preparation. We didnt really face any difficulty. We had won icc tournaments in 2024 and 2025 and were confident that if we play well, we will win this time as well. Its good that we peaked at the right time. There was always pressure. Theres no fun if theres no pressure. Speaking about the celebrations that followed Indias triumph, Suryakumar said the team chose to enjoy the moment together. I wish I could share what we did that night after becoming world champions We had a good time and stayed awake until 8 a.m. We were together. Because when you win a tournament as a team in a team sport, the celebration should also happen together. So we were all together. He also hinted at shifting focus soon to the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League. The IPL schedule hasnt been released yet. We dont know when we will play, but we are very excited for the tournament. For Suryakumar, the moment of holding the trophy was one of pure joy after years of striving. Holding the trophy felt really nice since we hadn't held it for quite some time (guess its sarcasm), and the overall feeling was extraordinary. We even enjoyed good celebrations after the match. The significance of leading India to a World Cup victory, he admitted, only truly began to sink in after returning home to Mumbai. Until yesterday, there were no feelings. But after arriving in Mumbai, this feeling is settling within me and will last for a long time, whether it be any tournament like the IPL. I really feel special. Despite the global success, the India captain said he remains deeply connected to where his journey began. It all started in Mumbai onlyin the streets of Chembur where I was born. I will not leave this place as everything started from hereincluding my cricket coaching. The significance of leading India to a World Cup victory, he admitted, only truly began to sink in after returning home to Mumbai. Until yesterday, there were no feelings. But after arriving in Mumbai, this feeling is settling within me and will last for a long time, whether it be any tournament like the IPL. I really feel special. Also Read: Live Cricket Score For now, however, Suryakumar said his immediate plans are simple. My future plan for now is to go home, have good food, sleep well for 2 days, come back to play the ipl and then the Olympic tournament where we will aim to win big. Article Source: IANS
Monitoring LPG Shortage And Travel Logistics Ahead Of 2026 IPL Season: Dhumal
Indian Premier League: Indian Premier League (IPL) chairman Arun Dhumal said the tournament is monitoring potentially big challenges around hospitality and travel logistics as the 2026 season approaches, though he added that no formal concerns have been raised by hotels or other stakeholders over LPG shortage. The IPL 2026 season begins on March 28, with the schedule for the first 20 games likely to come out on March 12. The ten-team tournament attracts top international players, as well as coaches and broadcasters, thus making travel- and hospitality-related logistics critical to its smooth functioning. But with the US-Israel-Iran war leading to increasing conflict in the Middle East and affecting LPG supplies, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas said that the supply of cooking gas will be prioritised for households. It has meant that theres a supply crunch of commercial LPG to hotels and restaurants, especially with many eateries in Mumbai, Bengaluru and Chennai saying they will be forced to halt operations due to a shortage of cooking gas. Definitely, it's a challenge. But we haven't got anything yet from hotels as of now. In case there is an issue and they tell us, then we'll review it accordingly. The thing is, in case we would have gone for a booking, they would have told us. But they have to come back with us if this is an issue. So, we haven't heard anything from them. Currently we are hearing it from the media, but we are reviewing and watching the situation from our end and we'll take a call accordingly, Dhumal told IANS on Tuesday. Any wider disruption of commercial cooking gas could affect not only the league but also the ecosystem outside of it, like hospitals, NGOs, educational institutions and various industries. During IPL, many restaurants and roadside stalls see a huge uptick in sales as fans prefer to have their meals when the matches are screened live. Food delivery app services also see a big jump in their services when fans prefer to have food from the comfort of their homes during IPL matches. Aside from LPG concerns, travel logistics also remain a challenge, as seen during the recently concluded Mens T20 World Cup won by India. Zimbabwe, West Indies and South Africa were unable to leave immediately for home due to the conflict disrupting their flight routes. With their major layover destination in Dubai not available due to the conflict, Zimbabwe had to leave in three batches and reached home via Addis Ababa via Ethiopian Airlines. South Africa and West Indies, meanwhile, were stuck in Kolkata before a charter flight was arranged to get them home via Johannesburg. Aside from LPG concerns, travel logistics also remain a challenge, as seen during the recently concluded Mens T20 World Cup won by India. Zimbabwe, West Indies and South Africa were unable to leave immediately for home due to the conflict disrupting their flight routes. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Dhumal said the IPL is keeping an eye on travel arrangements for overseas players. Right now, we are reviewing the situation. The IPL is still about a few weeks away. We'll see how to go about it, he added. Article Source: IANS
Amelia Kerr Spearheads NZ's Surge In Latest Womens ODI Rankings
International Cricket Council Women: New Zealand skipper Amelia Kerr headlined a strong showing from the White Ferns in the latest update of the International Cricket Council Womens ODI Player Rankings after a dominant start to their home series against Zimbabwe. New Zealand have taken an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match ODI series, with Kerr playing a pivotal role with both bat and ball. The 25-year-old delivered a standout bowling performance across the first two matches, including a remarkable seven-wicket haul in the second ODI in Dunedin. Kerr picked up four wickets in the series opener before producing her career-best spell in the next match, becoming only the seventh player in womens ODI history to claim seven wickets in an innings. The performance propelled her five places up the ODI bowlers rankings to 11th. She also made a modest gain in the all-rounders standings, climbing one spot to fifth overall. New Zealands rise in the rankings was not limited to Kerr. Teammates Brooke Halliday and Maddy Green also recorded significant improvements in the ODI batting charts after strong contributions in the opening matches of the series. Halliday surged eight places to 11th following a spectacular unbeaten 157 off 117 deliveries in the first ODI, one of the standout knocks of the series. Green also impressed in the same contest with a well-compiled 67 and followed it up with an unbeaten 27 in the second match, helping her climb four positions to equal 22nd. Meanwhile, movement was also seen in the latest T20I rankings following the conclusion of the series between the West Indies and Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka opener Hasini Perera was one of the biggest gainers after her match-winning performance in the third and final T20I in St Georges. The left-hander struck an unbeaten half-century to guide Sri Lanka to a series-clinching victory and jumped 15 places to 28th in the T20I batters rankings. Another Sri Lanka batter, Imesha Dulani, also moved up the charts after an unbeaten 34 in the series decider, climbing 17 places to joint 72nd. Sri Lanka opener Hasini Perera was one of the biggest gainers after her match-winning performance in the third and final T20I in St Georges. The left-hander struck an unbeaten half-century to guide Sri Lanka to a series-clinching victory and jumped 15 places to 28th in the T20I batters rankings. Also Read: Live Cricket Score For the West Indies, veteran spinner Afy Fletcher emerged as the major mover, climbing four places to seventh in the T20I bowlers rankings after picking up three wickets across the final two matches of the series. Article Source: IANS
Vaishnavi Adkar Credits Bopanna After Breakthrough Run In ITF W35 Kalaburagi
Karnataka State Lawn Tennis Association: Just after winning the ITF W35 Kalaburagi title, completing an impressive run in Karnataka that included finishing as runner-up at the ITF Womens Open W100 Bengaluru in February, Indias Vaishnavi Adkar attributed her improved performances to the guidance of Grand Slam champion Rohan Bopanna. We spoke about a few things and that made me realise that the move could be the right one for me. Having someone with that level of experience, someone who has been world number one and competed at the highest level for so many years, is really valuable. Getting inputs from him and learning from that experience, along with working with the team at the academy, has been very helpful for me as I look to improve and move forward in my career, she said. Adkar also thanked the Karnataka State Lawn Tennis Association (KSLTA) for giving her a wildcard entry at the ITF Womens Open W100 Bengaluru 2026. There, she became the first Indian woman to reach the final of a W100 or higher-level tournament since Sania Mirza in 2009. This achievement boosted her ranking from No. 690 to a career-high of No. 466, and she is expected to enter the top 400 next week once the points from her victory in Kalaburagi are added. Im really grateful to KSLTA for giving me the wildcard opportunities. I wasnt really expecting it, so it meant a lot that they showed that belief in me. Im happy that I was able to make the most of the opportunity and it really helped my ranking as well. Adkar has been named to Indias team for the upcoming Billie Jean King Cup Asia-Oceania tournament, scheduled for next month in New Delhi. Tennis is mostly an individual sport, so getting the chance to be part of a team event like the Billie Jean King Cup and representing India is very special. Im really looking forward to it and I hope I can contribute to the team in whatever way possible, she said of her selection. In recent months, Adkar has focused on improving important elements of her game. Two of the main things we have been working on are the serve and the return because those are the shots that start every point. At the same time, the physical aspect of the game has become very important in modern tennis, so Ive been focusing a lot on improving that as well, she noted. She also emphasised that her approach to the game has significantly changed, saying, This year I told myself that I just want to enjoy playing more and have fun on court, because thats the reason I started playing this sport in the first place. When I was able to play with that mindset and not put too much pressure on myself, the results started coming. She attributed her early development to her parents, who gave her the freedom to pursue the sport without feeling pressured. My parents have been supportive throughout. Even when the results werent coming early on, they never put any pressure on me. They always told me that as long as I was enjoying what I was doing, that was the most important thing. Her junior career faced a major setback when an injury temporarily interrupted her progress. Speaking of the same, Adkar said, I had an ACL tear right after winning my first ITF juniors title. It happened the very next week in another tournament. I had to undergo surgery and was out for about eight months, and that was a very tough period mentally because it came at a time when I needed to keep earning points and progressing. My parents have been supportive throughout. Even when the results werent coming early on, they never put any pressure on me. They always told me that as long as I was enjoying what I was doing, that was the most important thing. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Coming back from surgery is always difficult psychologically because that fear is there. But during my recovery we worked a lot on my strength and fitness, and when I returned to competition, I was physically stronger than before. In a way it turned out to be a blessing in disguise, she concluded. Article Source: IANS
Sanju's 97 Against WI Was Turning Point Of This Campaign: Gambhir
T20 World Cup: India head coach Gautam Gambhir credited Sanju Samsons crucial 97 against the West Indies as the turning point in Indias triumphant campaign at the ICC Men's T20 World Cup, which concluded with the hosts lifting their third record title after defeating New Zealand in Ahmedabad. Gambhir reflected on the emotional significance of winning a World Cup as Indias head coach, describing it as a privilege to contribute to the country once again in national colours. I could have never thought about winning a World Cup as a coach. I never thought I would get the opportunity or privilege to be the head coach of the Indian team because its an absolute privilege to again wear the India jersey or do something special for the country, Gambhir said on JioStar. The former India opener emphasised the emotional connection to representing the nation, adding that recognition from family and the pride of millions of fans made the achievement even more special. When your mom wishes you and tells you well done, thats what you play for and what you live for as well. What bigger feeling is there than making 140 crore Indians proud, he said. Gambhir also reiterated a message he consistently delivered to the squad throughout the tournament that representing India is a privilege rather than an entitlement. Ive always believed that, and Ive always told the boys as well, that being in that dressing room is a privilege, not an entitlement. Thousands of people would want to be in my position as the head coach of the Indian team, and many would want to be in the position the players are in, he added. According to Gambhir, Indias success was built not just on results but on the fearless approach the players adopted during the tournament. He also explained that the teams focus was on creating impact rather than chasing individual milestones. I think more than the win, it was the way the boys adapted to the ideology and philosophy of being high-risk, high-reward. From day one, I had a very strong belief that the T20 format is about impact. Its not about milestones or individual performances. Its about going out there and creating an impact, whether its on the field, with the ball or with the bat, Gambhir noted. He also stressed the importance of staying in the present moment during the shortest game format. The simple ideology throughout this World Cup was that if we could stay in the present and try to control each delivery. Whatever has gone will never come back, and you cannot control whats going to come in the future. Even if you get hit for five sixes, the next delivery could be the game-changing moment, he stated. While several performances shaped Indias campaign, Gambhir singled out Samsons innings against the West Indies as the defining moment and pointed out that the match effectively served as a knockout fixture for India. Its very difficult to say, but I still believe that Sanjus 97 against West Indies was the turning point of this campaign. It was a virtual quarter-final. Chasing 195 in a World Cup game is never easy, irrespective of the ground, Gambhir explained. Samsons calm approach, he said, changed the mood in the dressing room and praised Ishan Kishan for his contribution during the chase. With the ease and calmness with which he batted, it gave us a lot of confidence in the group that now we were probably on the right track. When Sanju got going and the way Ishan Kishan batted at number three, a lot of things actually started taking shape, Gambhir added. Another factor behind Indias success, Gambhir said, was the players willingness to adapt to different roles and batting positions throughout the tournament. One thing which will stay with me for the rest of my life is how comfortably the boys accepted different batting positions, he said. The coach highlighted that the flexibility began with captain Hardik Pandya, who was willing to adjust his role to meet the teams needs. Against England in the semi-final, Shivam got promoted, and Surya was absolutely fine with it. In the final, Hardik was promoted and the captain was fine with it, Gambhir said. He also cited examples of players such as Tilak Varma and Shivam Dube batting across multiple positions depending on the situation. Tilak started at number three, then batted at five, six and even seven, and the same with Shivam, who batted from number four to seven. That is what team sport is all about, he said. Gambhir also reserved special praise for Indias pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, who played multiple roles with the ball throughout the tournament. Tilak started at number three, then batted at five, six and even seven, and the same with Shivam, who batted from number four to seven. That is what team sport is all about, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score According to the head coach, it was this combination of fearless cricket, adaptability and key performances that ultimately powered India to a historic T20 World Cup triumph on home soil. Article Source: IANS
T20 World Cup: India's star batter Rinku Singh has penned down an emotional tribute to his late father Khanchand Singh, who passed away on February 27 in Greater Noida, due to prolonged illness. Rinku attended his father's funeral after India's T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8s match against Zimbabwe, before joining the squad in Kolkata for the crucial must-win match against the West Indies in the Super 8s stage. In a heartfelt post after India's T20 World Cup 2026 victory, Rinku said that even a single day without speaking to his father felt incomplete, and he struggles to imagine life ahead without him. I have never spent so many days without talking to you. I dont know how life will move forward without you But I know I will need you at every step, he wrote in a post on Instagram. You always taught me that duty comes first, so on the field I was only trying to fulfil your dream. Now that your dream has been fulfilled I just wish you were here with me. I will feel your absence in every small and big moment of happiness. I will miss you a lot, Papa, In a heartfelt post after India's T20 World Cup 2026 victory, Rinku said that even a single day without speaking to his father felt incomplete, and he struggles to imagine life ahead without him. Also Read: Live Cricket Score After the loss against the proteas Rinku was dropped from the team, and Sanju Samson came in place of the finisher. The move brought good results for the team as Sanju played back-to-back match-winning knocks in Super 8s, the semi-final and the final. Article Source: IANS
Zimbabwe's Ndhlovu ruled out of third ODI after concussion scare
She is currently recovering and remains under medical observation following the incident
ICC Calls Off Board Meetings In Doha Amid West Asia Conflict: Report
The International Cricket Council: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has reportedly called off its board and committee meetings in Doha due to the ongoing tensions in West Asia that have disrupted travel in the region. The meetings were scheduled to take place from March 25 to 27, bringing together ICC Board Directors, Chief Executives, committee members and senior leadership as part of the organisations ongoing governance calendar, providing an important opportunity to deliberate over key matters pertaining to the present and future of the global game. According to ESPNcricinfo, the ICC is still keeping the option open to hold in-person meetings in April, although that will depend on normal functioning of regional airspace to allow safe travel for board members. The report said that that among the major topics expected to be discussed were the future of global broadcast rights after the current deal expires in 2027, early talks regarding the next Future Tours Programme (FTP), and the qualification process for cricket at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics. The Doha gathering would have marked the first time the ICC planned to host its board meetings in Qatar, a country that has recently reported a significant rise in cricket participation. Since 2020, overall participation in cricket in Qatar has grown by an impressive 447 per cent, driven largely by initiatives aimed at introducing the sport to new and younger audiences. Central to this growth has been crickets inclusion in the Qatar Olympic Committees School Olympic Programme, which has helped embed the game within schools across the country. The Doha gathering would have marked the first time the ICC planned to host its board meetings in Qatar, a country that has recently reported a significant rise in cricket participation. Also Read: Live Cricket Score An earlier series between Pakistan Shaheens and England Lions was also cancelled mid-way due to the same crisis. Article Source: IANS
India Team To Pocket $14 Million For T20 World Cup Win
India's all-conquering men's cricket team will pocket $14 million after lifting the T20 World Cup for a record third time, the country's cricket board said on Tuesday. The cohosts and pretournament favourites swept aside New Zealand by 96 runs in Sunday's final in Ahmedabad to become the first team to retain the trophy and the first to win it on home soil. Cricket commands an unrivalled following in the world's most populous country, with top players enjoying star status and the game serving as a rare unifying force in an otherwise diverse nation. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the world's richest and most powerful cricket body, praised the players, support staff and selectors for the historic achievement as it announced the cash reward. The victory cemented India's place among the most successful teams in the history of the format, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia said in a statement. The prize money will be shared among the entire team, including coaches and support staff. The Indian team will separately receive $2.34 million from the International Cricket Council while runners-up New Zealand will earn $1.17 million. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Midnight celebrations broke out across the country on Sunday as delirious fans in blue Indian shirts took to the streets, beating drums and dancing to Bollywood hits.
BCCI announces 131 crore cash reward for Suryakumar Yadav's World Champion team
The amount is an increment of 6 crore from the 125 crore that Rohit Sharma's team was awarded back in 2024
BCCI To Honour Five ICC Trophy-winning Teams During Annual Awards On March 15
The BCCI Awards: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will host its annual awards ceremony on March 15 in New Delhi, where five Indian teams that won ICC trophies over the past year will be honoured, said secretary Devajit Saikia. The BCCI awards ceremony titled 'NAMAN', will celebrate Indias recent success in ICC events across formats and age groups, as well as honour the best performers in international and domestic games in the 2024/25 season. The BCCI Awards ceremony will happen on March 15 in New Delhi. We are going to invite all the ICC tournament winners, including the recent T20 World Cup champions, as well as coaches. Apart from the senior mens team, the senior womens team, U19 boys side, and U19 girls team, who won the trophy in 2025, will also be invited, Saikia told IANS on Tuesday. It is understood that the awards venue in the national capital will be a five-star hotel which is closer to the airport, as the mens team players have to join their respective IPL franchises for the pre-season camps ahead of the competition starting on March 28. Saikia also said Indias 2025 Champions Trophy-winning squad will also be honoured in the ceremony. We will also invite the 2025 Champions Trophy winning team members too. So, five ICC trophies won by various Indian teams during the course of last one year all the members of those teams will be honoured on the awards night and it will be a great evening, he added. It is understood that the awards venue in the national capital will be a five-star hotel which is closer to the airport, as the mens team players have to join their respective IPL franchises for the pre-season camps ahead of the competition starting on March 28. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Regarding the prize money breakdown for the 2026 Mens T20 World Cup winning team, we'll let you know soon. But the total amount of Rs 131 crore, this is an unprecedented amount given to any victorious Indian team by the BCCI. Apart from the winning team, all support staff and selectors will get this money too, Saikia concluded. Article Source: IANS
BCCI To Announce IPL 2026 Schedule For First 20 Days By March 12: Saikia
Miraj International Cricket Stadium: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will release the schedule for the first 20 days of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 by March 12, said secretary Devajit Saikia. The 19th edition of the IPL will run from March 28 to May 31, after the initial window was between March 26 and May 30. We plan to announce the IPL 2026 schedule by March 12. For now, we are going to announce the IPL schedule for the first 20 days, Saikia told IANS on Tuesday. It is understood the remainder of the tournaments schedule will come later as the BCCI aims to avoid a clash with assembly elections in West Bengal, Assam and Tamil Nadu. Nevertheless, teams have already begun their pre-season preparations. Five-time champions Chennai Super Kings started their training on March 1 at their High-Performance Centre in Navalur, with captain Ruturaj Gaikwad and MS Dhoni among those present. Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru held a small preparation camp at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai on February 10, while 2022 champions Gujarat Titans held practice sessions twice at the Miraj International Cricket Stadium in Nathdwara. Nevertheless, teams have already begun their pre-season preparations. Five-time champions Chennai Super Kings started their training on March 1 at their High-Performance Centre in Navalur, with captain Ruturaj Gaikwad and MS Dhoni among those present. Also Read: Live Cricket Score 2008 winners Rajasthan Royals are expected to assemble for a practice camp in Jaipur from March 15, while three-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders will begin their pre-season camp on March 18. Delhi Capitals recently did one in Hyderabad and are expected to have one in New Delhi, while Lucknow Super Giants had held a preparatory session in Lucknow. Article Source: IANS
ICC Board meetings in Doha called off due to West Asia conflict
Some ICC meetings will take place virtually over the next few weeks
Opposition Backs Kirti Azad Over Trophy Temple Visit Row, Calls For Respecting All Sentiments
BJP MP Gautam Gambhir: Several Opposition leaders on Tuesday expressed support for Trinamool Congress MP and former cricketer Kirti Azad after his social media post questioning the decision to take the T20 World Cup trophy to a temple. Opposition leaders said Azad had raised an important concern and stressed that it was essential to ensure that the sentiments of people from all faiths are respected. The controversy erupted after Azad, who was a member of Indias 1983 World Cup-winning team, criticised the act of taking the trophy to a temple by cricketer Suryakumar Yadav, head coach and former BJP MP Gautam Gambhir, and International Cricket Council (ICC) chairman Jay Shah. In a post on social media platform X, Azad wrote, As Why NOT a Mosque? Why NOT a Church? Why NOT a Gurudwara? The Trophy Belongs to 1.4 BILLION Indians of EVERY Faith NOT ONE RELIGION'S VICTORY LAP!. He further criticised the move, saying it was unfortunate that one religion appeared to be given precedence. Referring to Indias historic 1983 World Cup triumph under Kapil Dev, Azad wrote that the team represented people from different faiths. When we won the World Cup under Kapil Dev in 1983, we had Hindu, Muslim, Sikh and Christian in the team. We brought the trophy to our religious birthplace our motherland India, Bharat, Hindustan, he wrote. Azad also added, This Team Represents INDIA not Surya Kumar Yadav's or Jay Shah's Family. Mentioning players from different religious backgrounds, he further wrote: (Mohammad) Siraj never paraded it at a Mosque. Sanju (Samson) never took it to a Church... latter had a major part to play and was man of the tournament. Reacting to the controversy, Congress MP Sukhdeo Bhagat defended Azad and said his concerns should be taken seriously. Kirti Azad has been a part of our team when we won the World Cup. He is our respected Member of Parliament and he has raised these concerns. Sports should always be played in the spirit of the game, and when the country wins, it is India that wins. It is not the victory of any particular community, group, or individual. That is why I said that the issues he has highlighted are indeed matters of concern. Since the government of the Bharatiya Janata Party and Prime Minister Narendra Modi came to power, such incidents have increased. There seems to be an attempt to divide society, where people are being pushed to come forward with separate identities, he told IANS. Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) MP, Mahua Maji also emphasised the need to be sensitive towards peoples religious sentiments. In our country you can see that politics over religion happens during elections and even in sports. I believe that when people of all castes and religions are involved in sports, whether they are players or spectators, it is very important to ensure that no ones sentiments are hurt, because these are matters at the national level. In our country, people visit temples, mosques, churches, and gurdwaras, so we should avoid such issues... Congress MLA and former national hockey team captain Pargat Singh said sports should remain free from religious divisions. There is no need to differentiate in sports, for us every religion is same. I don't have much background on this, it should be taken to temple, masjids, gurdwaras, churches everywhere. It is better if we keep religion and sports separate. Congress MLA and former national hockey team captain Pargat Singh said sports should remain free from religious divisions. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Kirti Azad may have his own stand, as he has been a great cricketer and an MP. I think we should not bring politics into sports. Our players have done exceptionally well - we have become T20 world champions for the third time. They should be congratulated for this. If they want to take the trophy to a temple or a mosque, it is their personal decision. The cricket control Board can do nothing about it. Article Source: IANS
BCCI announces cash reward of INR 131 crore for India's World Cup-winning side
India beat NZ by 96 runs in Ahmedabad in the T20 World Cup final on Sunday
Casson tasked with leading Western Australia's revival
The long-time assistant coach will step into Adam Voges shoes after signing a three-year deal
BCCI Announces Massive Rs 131 Crore Cash Reward For T20 World Cup-winning Team India
T20 World Cup: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has declared a massive cash reward of Rs. 131 crore for the Indian Team after their victorious run in the ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026. The Men in Blue, who defended their T20 World Cup title at home, becoming the first team to do so, received Rs. 125 crore in 2024 following their victory in the prestigious tournament. The BCCI's cash reward increased by six crore rupees from 2024, when Rohit Sharma led the side to their first win since the inaugural edition. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced a cash reward of INR 131 crore for Team India following their triumphant campaign in the ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026. The Board congratulates the players, support staff and selectors once again on this historic achievement and wishes them continued success in the future, the BCCI said in their statement. By successfully defending the title, India became the first team in the history of the tournament to retain the ICC Mens T20 World Cup. With this victory, India also became the first team to win the ICC Mens T20 World Cup thrice and also the first team to win it at home. Led by Suryakumar Yadav, the Indian side also received a substantial financial reward from the International Cricket Council (ICC) after their title triumph. After registering a commanding 96-run victory over New Zealand in the final, India claimed the winners purse of USD 2.34 million (approximately Rs 21.5 crore) awarded by the International Cricket Council. The runners-up, New Zealand, received USD 1.17 million (around Rs 10.75 crore). The hosts dominated the title clash from the very beginning, piling up a record total of 253 for five in a World T20 final. The innings was powered by a blistering 89 from Sanju Samson, which set the tone for Indias commanding performance. Led by Suryakumar Yadav, the Indian side also received a substantial financial reward from the International Cricket Council (ICC) after their title triumph. After registering a commanding 96-run victory over New Zealand in the final, India claimed the winners purse of USD 2.34 million (approximately Rs 21.5 crore) awarded by the International Cricket Council. The runners-up, New Zealand, received USD 1.17 million (around Rs 10.75 crore). Also Read: Live Cricket Score Samson finished the tournament as the Player of the Series after scoring 321 runs in just five innings, while Bumrah was named Player of the Match for his decisive performance in the final. Article Source: IANS
Jess Jonassen Steps Down As Queensland And Brisbane Heat Captain
New South Wales Breakers: Australian all-rounder Jess Jonassen has stepped down from her leadership roles with Queensland Fire and Brisbane Heat Women, bringing to an end a five-year stint as captain across domestic competitions. Jonassen, who informed Queensland Cricket chief executive Terry Svenson of her decision last month, is set to reach another milestone this week when she plays her 100th match in the Women's National Cricket League on Saturday at Allan Border Field. The experienced spinner had led both sides since taking over from Kirby Short in 2020, captaining Brisbane in 81 matches in the Women's Big Bash League and Queensland in 30 WNCL fixtures. Jonassen recently returned to competitive action against New South Wales Breakers after recovering from shoulder surgery that prematurely ended her WBBL campaign in December. During her absence, wicketkeeper Georgia Redmayne stepped in as stand-in captain and will continue to lead the Fire for the remainder of the WNCL season, while Jonassen focuses solely on her playing responsibilities. Explaining her decision, Jonassen said the choice followed a period of reflection in recent weeks. I did have every intention of wanting to lead again this season, but the NSW trip helped open my eyes to a number of things and has helped me come to this decision. I am very grateful for the past five years and to those who showed faith in me being the person to help lead these teams forward, she was quoted as saying by Queensland Cricket. When I sat down and thought hard about what was best for the future, I realised I could no longer give my all in the role. I know this is the best decision for both me and the team. Im very much looking forward to finishing my career as a senior player who leads from within and will support whoever gets the opportunity to lead these teams next. We have some impressive leaders in our group, and I will give them whatever assistance they need, she added. The veteran all-rounder also expressed gratitude to the coaching staff and administrators who supported her during her captaincy. A huge thank you to the coaches Mark Sorell and Jeff Thomas and all their support staff for the past few seasons. And similarly, our CEO Terry Svenson and the Board and Staff of Queensland Cricket for backing me and supporting the team throughout. My wife Sarah and my family helped me arrive at this decision when I was wrestling with what I wanted to do, and their love and support means I know I have made the right call. The veteran all-rounder also expressed gratitude to the coaching staff and administrators who supported her during her captaincy. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Meanwhile, the Fire are preparing for a crucial pair of WNCL fixtures against Victoria Women at Allan Border Field on Thursday and Saturday. The results could determine whether Queensland secure a place in the final against the New South Wales Breakers in Sydney later this month. Article Source: IANS
'I've almost rebirthed myself at 38' - Bates targets T20 World Cup after injury layoff
With Gaze set to retain her spot at the top, Bates is preparing for a new role in the middle order
IPL 2026: Matthew Hayden Joins Gujarat Titans As Batting Coach
ICC Cricket World Cup: The Gujarat Titans have appointed former Australian opener Matthew Hayden as their batting coach ahead of the Indian Premier League 2026 season, the franchise confirmed on Tuesday. A two-time ICC Cricket World Cup winner and one of the most formidable openers of his generation, Hayden brings extensive international experience and a deep understanding of modern T20 batting to the Titans coaching setup. His addition strengthens the teams support staff as the 2022 champions prepare for the new season. Director of Cricket Vikram Solanki said the former Australian stars appointment comes at an important moment for the franchise. Matthews appointment comes at a pivotal phase in our journey. As a franchise committed to excellence and long-term success, we are constantly focused on strengthening our cricketing ecosystem. His experience at the highest level, coupled with his ability to mentor emerging talent, will be instrumental in shaping our batting identity for the seasons ahead, Solanki said. Hayden, meanwhile, expressed his excitement about taking on the role and outlined the standard he hopes to instil within the sides batting unit. Commenting on his appointment, the Aussie great said, Good batting applies pressure. Great batting owns the game. Thats the standard we want to set at Gujarat Titans. During an illustrious international career with Australia, Hayden featured in 273 matches across formats and scored more than 15,000 runs. Renowned for his aggressive yet technically sound approach, he played a significant role in shaping the powerplay dominance that defines modern white-ball cricket. Hayden also left a notable mark on the IPL during his stint with Chennai Super Kings between 2008 and 2010. Across 32 appearances, he scored 1,107 runs at an average of 36.90 and a strike rate of 137.52. During an illustrious international career with Australia, Hayden featured in 273 matches across formats and scored more than 15,000 runs. Renowned for his aggressive yet technically sound approach, he played a significant role in shaping the powerplay dominance that defines modern white-ball cricket. Also Read: Live Cricket Score He capped his IPL journey on a high by helping Chennai Super Kings secure their maiden league title in 2010, leaving a lasting legacy through both his performances and his fearless approach to T20 batting. Article Source: IANS
Sutherland Rested, Hamilton Set For White-ball Debut As Australia Name Squad For WI Series
T20 World Cup: Annabel Sutherland has been rested from Australias upcoming white-ball tour of the Caribbean, while young pacer Lucy Hamilton is likely to make her T20I debut after being named in the 15-member squad. The tour will also see new captain Sophie Molineux return to the side after recovering from a back injury. The Australian side will play six limited-overs matches beginning March 19. The series opens with three T20 Internationals, which will serve as key preparation ahead of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup, scheduled for later this year in England. Molineux, who had missed a large portion of the recent multi-format series against India due to the injury, has now regained fitness and been included in the 15-member squad travelling to the Caribbean. The squad also features uncapped batter Tahlia Wilson, who has earned her first call-up. Meanwhile, Lucy Hamilton and Nicola Carey have retained their spots following strong performances in the recent India series. Regular players Grace Harris and Annabel Sutherland, however, will not be part of the tour as the management looks to manage their workloads ahead of the upcoming World Cup. Chief selector Shawn Flegler highlighted the significance of the Caribbean tour as a crucial stage in Australias preparations for the global tournament and welcomed the return of Molineux as their all-format captain following the retirement of former captain Alyssa Healy. Being the final series before the T20 World Cup, its a great opportunity for the group to refine our plans against a challenging opposition. This tour marks the beginning of a new era for the side, with Sophie taking the reins across all formats and a new-look batting line-up following Alyssas retirement, Flegler told cricket.com.au. Molineux had been ruled out of the final two ODIs and the Test against India after experiencing soreness in her back. Although she is recovering well, team management may limit her appearances during the tour to ensure she remains fully fit. Sophie was terrific during the recent T20 series against India and has already begun shaping her leadership style, and this tour will be another important step in continuing to define how she wants to lead the side. Sophie is progressing well and is expected to be available to play. Well prioritise the T20 matches and continue to assess her across the ODI series. If Molineux misses matches, either Ashleigh Gardner or Tahlia McGrath, who are the joint vice-captains, will lead the team. Sutherland, who delivered an outstanding performance against India and was named player of the series after scoring a century in the Test at the WACA Ground, has been rested as part of a planned workload management strategy. She had earlier skipped the Women's Premier League with Delhi Capitals Women following the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup and Women's Big Bash League. Annabel will miss the series as part of a proactive management plan after a significant workload over the past 12 months, and we believe the extended rest will help ensure shes at her best ahead of the World Cup. Harris has not been selected for the squad, though selectors maintain she is still under consideration for the upcoming global event. Annabel will miss the series as part of a proactive management plan after a significant workload over the past 12 months, and we believe the extended rest will help ensure shes at her best ahead of the World Cup. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Australia squad: Sophie Molineux (c), Ashleigh Gardner (vc), Tahlia McGrath (vc), Darcie Brown, Nicola Carey, Kim Garth, Lucy Hamilton, Alana King, Phoebe Litchfield, Beth Mooney, Ellyse Perry, Megan Schutt, Georgia Voll, Georgia Wareham, Tahlia Wilson Article Source: IANS
Indian Wells: Carlos Alcaraz battles back to reach fourth round
Alcaraz had to dig deep against the big-serving Frenchman, who fended off a set point on the way to winning the first-set tiebreaker
Jonassen stands down as Queensland and Brisbane Heat captain
The allrounder, who has recently returned from injury, had held the roles since 2020
Why Nari Contractor Never Played Test Cricket Again After His 1962 Skull Injury?
Recently, former India cricketer and captain Nari Contractor celebrated his 92nd birthday. He is widely remembered as the cricketer whose international career was cut short after he was struck on the skull by a vicious bouncer from West Indies pacer Charlie Griffith during a tour match against Barbados on Indias 1962 tour of the Caribbean. The match was played between the second Test at Kingston which turned out to be Contractors 31st and final international appearance and the third Test of the five-match series at Kensington Oval in Barbados. His skull was fractured and it needed a series of surgeries which saved him. Everywhere it is written that this injury cut short his international cricket career. The brave attempt to stage a comeback to Test cricket was not successful. A very interesting question is why he didnt play, even after having recovered? Let us look at the facts: Fact is that, once recovered, Nari Contractor returned to cricket and very soon he was playing first class cricket. Then why didn't he stage a comeback to Test cricket? To answer this question, a relook at the injury scene is very important. When Charlie Griffith bouncer hit Contractor, he sustained a serious head injury and immediate treatment was required. Incidentally, the West Indian captain Frank Worrell was present there and he took immediate action to save the life of Nari. Former India captain Ghulam Ahmed was manager of the touring India team and he ensured that specialists arrived in time to perform surgery. Taking personal responsibility and without wasting any precious time, it was Ghulam Ahmed who had consented for the surgery. Many lined up to donate the blood to facilitate the surgery and ultimately five (Frank Worrell, Chandu Borde, Bapu Nadkarni, Polly Umrigar and KN Prabhu, a journalist) donated the blood as they had the same blood group. Contractor always said, If I am living today, its only because of Ghulam. A lesser known fact is that a steel plate was inserted in his skull to save him, instead of putting a mesh, so that if he gets hit on this side (right) again, nothing will happen to him. This process took two and a half hours but this plate helped and he recovered. Although this surgery gave confidence to Contractor to play again, he was advised to retire from playing Test cricket. On the other hand he was determined to make a comeback. Nari Contractor resumed playing first-class cricket in 1962-63 for Gujarat (Ranji Trophy) and West Zone (Duleep Trophy). He continued playing till 1970-71 and in between his name was in consideration for Indias 1967-68 tour of Australia. When Contractor resumed cricket in 1962, incidentally another Charlie (Stayers) bowled to him at practice, at the Cricket Club of India so that he should have the feel of the pace. Stayers was one of four West Indian fast bowlers brought in by the BCCI to play domestic cricket in India in that season. Contractor played in Ranji and other tournaments but not Test cricket. Contractor still regrets that he did not play a Test match, I wanted to play just one Test after my head injury. Its on record that Dr. Chandy who inserted a metal plate in Contractors head, had told him, I want to tell you (Contractor) in plain and simple English that if you want to be a vegetable for the rest of your life, dont ever play cricket again. Contractor however had other ideas and returned to cricket. He later revealed that the selectors were hesitant to pick him due to the fear of another head injury and never picked him again. They were too afraid. What if he got hit again? What if next time the result was worse? They could not take that responsibility. However Contractor kept playing domestic cricket. A very interesting fact is that whenever Nari was considered for Test selection again, Ghulam Ahmed was consulted about his condition. Nari always said that his life was saved by the team manager Ghulam Ahmed who called in the local surgeon just in time when he was vomiting blood in a bucket. Incidentally when Contractor was seriously in line for a Test comeback, the same Ghulam Ahmed was the chairman of selectors. It is reported that one evening, Ghulam met Nari and told him that he was certainly good enough to play for India again, but he would not pick him, because he could not bear the possibility of another life threatening injury to his dearest friend. Nari didnt argue and accepted that it was difficult to argue with a man who had saved his life. Also Read: Live Cricket Score For your information: The titanium plate inserted in Nari Contractors head was removed after 60 years at the Reliance Foundation Hospital in Mumbai. The body had started rejecting the plate, making it necessary to remove it.
Siniakova ends Andreeva's Indian Wells defence in third round
The 18-year-old Andreeva had opened her repeat bid with an imperious 6-0, 6-0 demolition of Solana Sierra.
Sutherland rested from West Indies tour, Molineux 'expected' to play
NSW wicketkeeper Tahlia Wilson has earned her first call-up while Grace Harris has been dropped
Bethell named as Birmingham Phoenix captain for 2026 Hundred
England batter takes over from Liam Livingstone who has joined London Spirit
Gautam Gambhir gives one-line reply to MS Dhoni's post after India's World Cup win
After India's World Cup victory, a warm social media exchange between MS Dhoni and Gautam Gambhir caught attention. Dhoni congratulated the Indian team on Instagram and shared a playful message for head coach Gambhir, and the coach responded. This comes years after Dhoni and Gambhir's alleged feud following the 2011 WC.
Bates, Devine, Plimmer, And Devonshire Return To NZ Squad Vs South Africa
Head Coach Ben Sawyer: Suzie Bates, Sophie Devine, Georgia Plimmer, and Flora Devonshire return to the New Zealand squad for the upcoming five-match T20I series against South Africa. Bates (quad tear), Devonshire (broken finger), and Plimmer (shoulder) have all come through their rehabilitation and will be available for the series which gets underway at Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui on Sunday, New Zealand Cricket said in a statement. The five-match series will be played as double-header game-days. Devine is also set to make her return to the side for the first time since the ICC Womens Cricket World Cup in India in October, as the New Zealand womens team continue their preparation to defend their title ahead of the ICC Womens T20 World Cup in England later this year. Head Coach Ben Sawyer said the injection of Bates and Devines experience could only do good things for the team. Were really excited to welcome back Suzie and Sophie for this next block of games. Their quality on the field really does speak for itself but what they bring to the group culturally is really important for us as a team. Im looking forward to having them mix in with some of the newer members of the squad. Sawyer expressed his excitement at having Plimmer available again. It was unfortunate to have Georgia miss out on most of the Zimbabwe series with her shoulder, so the whole group is glad to have her back. Her role at the top of the order is a key one and itll be great to have her back as we continue to build toward that World Cup later in the year. Sawyer expressed his sympathy for Devonshire, who was ruled out of the recent Zimbabwe series with a hand injury just months after being ruled out of the ICC Womens Cricket World Cup in India. Flora had a couple of back-to-back injuries that has kept her out of the squad for the last little while which is never nice as a player. Its really pleasing to be able to have her back in the group, fit and firing for when we need her. The squad features 15 players, with Bree Illing and Polly Inglis making way for Devonshire and Canterbury Magicians Lea Tahuhu after the first two T20Is. Sawyer explained the selections were all in the name of ensuring good preparation for the upcoming ICC Womens T20 World Cup. As we can only take 13 at a time in our squads, were having a few moving parts to try and get more of our players involved in what is an important series ahead of the World Cup. The White Ferns will play their five-match series as part of a stretch of double-headers alongside the Blackcaps and Proteas. The first double-header will be played at Bay Oval in Tauranga on Sunday. The White Ferns will play their five-match series as part of a stretch of double-headers alongside the Blackcaps and Proteas. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Melie Kerr (C), Suzie Bates, Sophie Devine, Flora Devonshire, Izzy Gaze, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Bree Illing, Polly Inglis, Jess Kerr, Rosemary Mair, Nensi Patel, Georgia Plimmer, Izzy Sharp, Lea Tahuhu Article Source: IANS
Vibes or fumes? England's McCullum era may have run out of road
Flawed but valiant T20 World Cup campaign offers scant proof that Brendon McCullum can recreate the magic
Devine, Bates and Tahuhu return to New Zealand squad for South Africa T20Is
Georgia Plimmer and Flora Devonshire have recovered from injuries and will be part of the series against South Africa
BCCI Congratulates Team India On ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026 Triumph
ICC Chair Mr Jay Shah: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) congratulated Team India on winning the ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026, defeating New Zealand in the final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. India secured a resounding 96-run victory in the summit clash to lift the trophy in front of a packed home crowd. Indias triumph marks a historic achievement as the team successfully defends the ICC Mens T20 World Cup title, becoming the first side in the history of the tournament to retain the trophy. The victory also carries special significance as India become the first nation to win the ICC Mens T20 World Cup on home soil, making the occasion even more memorable for millions of fans. Led superbly by captain Suryakumar Yadav, the Indian team displayed a brand of fearless and dynamic cricket throughout the tournament. Combining explosive batting, disciplined bowling and outstanding fielding, the team maintained consistency across all phases of the competition and rose to the occasion in the most demanding moments. The BCCI also appreciated head coach Gautam Gambhir and the entire support staff for their leadership, planning and preparation that helped shape a confident and well-balanced side capable of performing under pressure. The Board also commends the Mens Selection Committee for identifying and backing a group of players who combined experience with youthful energy, resulting in a formidable squad that delivered on the biggest stage. The BCCI also thanks all its affiliated State Associations for their continued contribution in helping achieve this vision, BCC said in a statement. Congratulating the team, BCCI president Mithun Manhas said, Winning the ICC Mens T20 World Cup is a moment of immense pride for the entire nation. To defend the title and achieve this feat on home soil makes it even more special. The team played outstanding cricket throughout the tournament under the leadership of Suryakumar Yadav and the guidance of Head Coach Gautam Gambhir. I congratulate every member of the squad, the coaching staff and the selectors for this remarkable accomplishment. The Board also commends the Mens Selection Committee for identifying and backing a group of players who combined experience with youthful energy, resulting in a formidable squad that delivered on the biggest stage. The BCCI also thanks all its affiliated State Associations for their continued contribution in helping achieve this vision, BCC said in a statement. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Rajeev Shukla, vice-president, BCCI, said, This victory is the result of collective effort, meticulous preparation and the commitment shown by the players and support staff throughout the tournament. The team has displayed remarkable composure and confidence in high-pressure situations, a hallmark of champion sides. To win the ICC Mens T20 World Cup in front of our home fans makes the moment even more special and memorable. I would like to acknowledge the efforts of ICC Chair Mr Jay Shah, whose strong leadership continues to strengthen the global growth of the game. We thank the ICC for organising such a wonderful tournament that showcased the very best of T20 cricket. This triumph will remain a historic milestone for Indian cricket and a source of immense pride for the entire nation. Article Source: IANS
IndiaNew Zealand Discuss Expanding Sports Cooperation As 2026 Marks 100 Years Of Sporting Ties
New Zealand Centenary Sports Cooperation: Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya on Monday chaired a high level ministerial meeting with New Zealand sports delegation to discuss expanding bilateral cooperation in sports and strengthening collaboration between the sporting ecosystems of the two countries. The year 2026 marks 100 years of sporting ties between India and New Zealand, tracing back to the historic 1926 Indian Army hockey tour to New Zealand, one of the earliest major sporting engagements between the two nations. Building on this legacy, both countries explored new initiatives to deepen cooperation and strengthen sports diplomacy. The Indian delegation included Shri Hari Ranjan Rao, Secretary (Sports), along with senior officials from the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, the Sports Authority of India, the Indian Olympic Association and representatives from national sports federations. Earlier in the day, Shri Rao led a delegation-level meeting with New Zealand officials to discuss expanding bilateral sports cooperation. The delegations identified priority sports for collaboration, including rugby, rowing, canoeing, sailing, athletics and cycling. The New Zealand delegation was led by Chris Bishop, Associate Minister for Sport and Recreation, and included Patrick John Rata, New Zealand High Commissioner to India, former international cricketer Ross Taylor, Raelene Castle, CEO of Sport New Zealand, and representatives from Hockey New Zealand, Athletics New Zealand and Paralympics New Zealand. The discussions focused on the IndiaNew Zealand Centenary Sports Cooperation Programme 2026, a year-long initiative designed to commemorate the centenary of sporting ties and expand collaboration in sports development, high-performance training, innovation and people-to-people engagement. Both sides discussed organising sports and cultural exchange initiatives, including a proposed IndiaNew Zealand Sports and Culture Week to be hosted across cities in both countries, bringing together athletes, coaches and communities while celebrating indigenous sporting traditions. A key focus of the meeting was strengthening collaboration in high-performance sports through joint training camps, coaching exchanges and knowledge sharing in sports science, analytics and athlete performance systems. The discussions also explored integrating New Zealands coach development framework into the curriculum of the National Institute of Sports (NIS), Patiala. A key focus of the meeting was strengthening collaboration in high-performance sports through joint training camps, coaching exchanges and knowledge sharing in sports science, analytics and athlete performance systems. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The meeting reaffirmed the shared commitment of India and New Zealand to deepen sports cooperation and translate the centenary partnership into tangible outcomes for athletes, coaches and sporting ecosystems in both countries. Article Source: IANS
Sri Lanka appoint Gary Kirsten as men's head coach
Kirsten will take over the reins on April 15 on a two-year contract that runs until April 14 2028
Sanju Samson Receives Heartwarming Reception At Thiruvananthapuram Airport After T20 WC Win
Thiruvananthapuram International Airport: Indias wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson received a rousing welcome at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport on Monday as fans gathered to celebrate his heroics in Indias triumphant campaign at the ICC Mens T20 World Cup. Fans greeted the Kerala star as he arrived home, with supporters lining the airport premises to catch a glimpse of the local hero who played a pivotal role in India's victory. Representing India, Samson emerged as one of the standout performers of the tournament. His breakthrough moment came during the Super Eights clash against the West Indies, where he produced a commanding innings (97* off 50) that shifted the momentum of Indias campaign and set up a crucial victory. He followed it up with a defining performance in the semifinal against England. Under pressure on a big stage, Samson delivered a composed yet aggressive knock, scoring 89 and steering India through a tense contest and booking the teams place in the final. The crowning moment arrived in the final against New Zealand. Samson played one of the finest innings of the tournament, scoring another blistering 89 to power India to a formidable total. His knock proved decisive as India went on to clinch the title, cementing his status as one of the heroes of the campaign. Samson, who hails from Vizhinjam near Thiruvananthapuram and has long been a beloved figure in the states sporting landscape, returned home to scenes of pride and admiration, where he was received by Education Minister V. Shivankutty and presented with a memento. The crowning moment arrived in the final against New Zealand. Samson played one of the finest innings of the tournament, scoring another blistering 89 to power India to a formidable total. His knock proved decisive as India went on to clinch the title, cementing his status as one of the heroes of the campaign. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With the T20 World Cup trophy secured and a heros welcome awaiting him, Samsons journey from Keralas cricketing circuits to the global stage has become a moment of collective pride for the state and the country. Article Source: IANS
Suryakumar Yadav Poses With T20 WC Trophy At Historic Adalaj Stepwell After Indias Title Triumph
ICC Cricket World Cup: India captain Suryakumar Yadav visited the historic Adalaj Ni Vav on Monday, where he posed with the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 trophy following Indias title-winning campaign. Images shared by the International Cricket Council (ICC) showed the Indian skipper at the intricately designed stepwell, one of Gujarats most renowned heritage landmarks, located near Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar. The 15th-century structure, known for its elaborate carvings and architectural design, has long attracted tourists and history enthusiasts. Suryakumars visit came a day after Indias emphatic victory over New Zealand in the T20 World Cup final. The Indian team sealed the title with a commanding 96-run win at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday, successfully defending the trophy and further cementing their dominance in the shortest format. The stepwell also holds recent cricketing significance. Ahead of the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup final, former India captain Rohit Sharma and Australia skipper Pat Cummins had posed for a photoshoot at the same location. Despite the tournament celebrations continuing across the country, Suryakumar appeared to take a moment to explore the historic monument. Photographs from the visit showed him walking through the stepwells ornate corridors and admiring the detailed stonework while holding the World Cup trophy. The stepwell also holds recent cricketing significance. Ahead of the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup final, former India captain Rohit Sharma and Australia skipper Pat Cummins had posed for a photoshoot at the same location. Also Read: Live Cricket Score In the final, played at the Narendra Modi Stadium, the worlds largest cricket venue, India defeated New Zealand in front of a packed crowd to claim their second consecutive T20 World Cup title, also becoming the first team to win a home World Cup and the first team to clinch a record third title. Article Source: IANS
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis: In a heartfelt tribute to the Indian Cricket Team's historic victory in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, on Monday, moved a congratulatory motion in the State Assembly, hailing the team's clinical performance. The Chief Minister noted that the Indian cricket team dominated the tournament, winning every single match except one. He attributed this success to a perfect blend of team spirit, discipline, and confidence. Chief Minister Fadnavis extended his heartfelt congratulations to Indian team Captain Suryakumar Yadav, Head Coach Gautam Gambhir, and the entire squad. The motion was subsequently approved and declared passed by the Maharashtra Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar. Speaking on the special motion, Chief Minister Fadnavis traced India's glorious cricketing journey including 1983: The first World Cup win at the Lord's under Kapil Dev, 2007 and 2011: T20 and ODI World Cup victories under Captain M.S. Dhoni, and 2024 and 2026: Solidifying global dominance with consecutive T20 World Cup titles. The Chief Minister expressed particular pride in the fact that Captain Suryakumar Yadav and Shivam Dube hail from Mumbai. He remarked that it is heartening to see players from rural and humble backgrounds shining on the international stage, continuing Maharashtra's legacy of producing cricketing greats. Highlighting the details of the final match held at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad -- the world's largest cricket ground -- the Chief Minister noted: India set a massive record-breaking total of 255/5 in 20 overs, the highest-ever score in a T20 World Cup Final. The bowlers dismantled the New Zealand innings for just 159 runs. Sanju Samson provided a powerful start with 89 runs off 46 balls. Abhishek Sharma smashed one of the tournament's fastest fifties (52 off 21 balls), while Ishan Kishan contributed a fiery 54 off 25 balls. Jasprit Bumrah was the hero with the ball, taking 4 wickets and maintaining the best economy rate throughout the tournament. Axar Patel supported him well with 3 crucial wickets. With this victory, India has become the first country in the world to win the T20 World Cup three times and the first to win it back-to-back, Chief Minister Fadnavis said. Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde moved a congratulatory motion in the State Legislative Council, saying that the victory at Ahmedabad has sparked a wave of joy and enthusiasm across the nation. This isn't just a victory in sports; it is a symbol of the grit, team spirit, and confidence of our players, Deputy CM Shinde remarked. He congratulated the team, the coaching staff, and BCCI Chairman Jay Shah on behalf of the state government and the people of Maharashtra. He emphasised that India has now carved its name in history by winning the coveted title in 2007, 2024, and 2026. He congratulated the team, the coaching staff, and BCCI Chairman Jay Shah on behalf of the state government and the people of Maharashtra. Also Read: Live Cricket Score He concluded by wishing the Indian team continued success in keeping the national flag flying high on the global stage. Article Source: IANS
Gujarat: Suryakumar Yadav Visits Adalaj Stepwell With T20 World Cup Trophy
T20 World Cup: A day after India sealed a record-breaking T20 World Cup victory in Ahmedabad, captain Suryakumar Yadav visited the historic Adalaj Stepwell with the ICC Mens T20 World Cup trophy, drawing large crowds of cricket fans to the centuries-old monument on Monday. People gathered around the stepwell complex and along nearby roads to catch a glimpse of the Indian captain holding the trophy following the national teams triumph a day earlier. Some climbed terraces overlooking the monument while chanting India, India as Yadav arrived at the site. Police personnel were deployed around the heritage monument to manage the crowd and ensure security during the visit. India secured the 2026 ICC Mens T20 World Cup title on Sunday with a comprehensive 96-run victory over the New Zealand national cricket team in the final at the Narendra Modi Stadium. The match was played before a packed crowd at the worlds largest cricket stadium. Batting first, India posted 255 for five in their allotted 20 overs. Sanju Samson scored 89 off 46 balls, while Abhishek Sharma contributed 52 from 21 deliveries and Ishan Kishan added 54 from 25 balls to lift the total to the highest score recorded in a mens T20 World Cup final. New Zealand, led by captain Mitchell Santner, were bowled out for 159 in 19 overs while chasing the target. Pace bowler Jasprit Bumrah took four wickets for 15 runs, while Axar Patel claimed three wickets as India completed a dominant victory. Speaking after the final, Yadav said the significance of the moment would take time to sink in. It will take some time to understand this moment. It has been a long journey, and I am very happy. After 2024, the BCCI and its secretary, Jay Shah, showed their faith in me. Winning the trophy at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad is a special feeling, he said. Speaking after the final, Yadav said the significance of the moment would take time to sink in. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The stepwell, known for its intricate carvings and Indo-Islamic design, is among Gujarats prominent tourist attractions. Article Source: IANS
SLC Appoint Gary Kirsten As Head Coach Of Men's Cricket Team
National High Performance Center: Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) on Monday announced the appointment of former South African cricketer Gary Kirsten as the new head coach of the national men's team, effective from April 15. Kirsten, who enjoyed a distinguished international career representing South Africa, served as the head coach of the India men's national team from 2008 to 2011 and the head coach of the South Africa mens national team from 2011 to 2013. The appointment of the new head coach is part of Sri Lanka Crickets efforts to revamp the structure of the National High Performance Center, SLC said in a statement. During his tenures with the respective teams, he guided both teams to achieve significant heights in international cricket, including India winning the ICC Mens Cricket World Cup in 2011 and South Africa becoming the number 1 ranked team in all formats of the game during the year 2013. Kirstens most recent engagement was with Cricket Namibia during the concluded ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026 as a consultant. During his playing career, which spanned from 1993 to 2004, Kirsten scored a total of 14,087 runs across Test and One Day International (ODI) formats, including 21 Test centuries and 13 ODI centuries. Kirstens most recent engagement was with Cricket Namibia during the concluded ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026 as a consultant. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Among Kirstens primary responsibilities will be guiding the Sri Lanka National Mens Team in its preparation and campaign for the ICC Mens Cricket World Cup 2027, which will be held in South Africa, Namibia, and Zimbabwe. Article Source: IANS
Afghanistan-Sri Lanka white-ball series set to be postponed due to West Asia conflict
The series was scheduled to be played in the UAE, which has been affected by the ongoing military crisis
T20 World Cup: Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has heaped praise on the current Indian side following its historic victory in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, calling the team the best white-ball unit and lauding the leadership of captain Suryakumar Yadav and head coach Gautam Gambhir. India clinched the title after defeating New Zealand national cricket team by 96 runs in the final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, becoming the first team to win three Mens T20 World Cup titles while also successfully defending the trophy. Speaking to reporters in Ahmedabad after the victory, Pathan said the current Indian team has established itself as the most dominant white-ball side. There is no doubt that this is the best white-ball team, Pathan told reporters here in Ahmedabad. He credited Suryakumars leadership and Gambhirs role in building a strong and united unit that has consistently delivered results on the global stage. The way Suryakumar Yadav captained and the way Gautam Gambhir brought the team together was remarkable, he said. Pathan also highlighted Gambhirs humility in acknowledging the contributions of other key figures in Indian cricket, noting that the head coach had openly credited those who played a role in shaping the team. What impressed me the most was how Gautam gave credit to everyone Ajit Agarkar, VVS Laxman, Rahul Dravid. It shows that his heart is very clean, Pathan said. According to Pathan, Gambhirs attitude reflects the importance of clear intentions and teamwork in achieving success at the highest level. When your heart is pure and your intentions are right, you get the results. Indian cricket has got the result. All of you also prayed for it, there is no doubt about that, he said. Indias latest triumph also marked their second consecutive T20 World Cup title, following their victory in 2024, further cementing the teams dominance in the shortest format. Pathan said the teams back-to-back successes have brought immense joy to former players who continue to follow Indian cricket closely. The way we are winning back-to-back World Cups now, I think for us former cricketers who have played the game and remain connected to Indian cricket, it feels very good and brings peace to the heart, he added. Pathan said the teams back-to-back successes have brought immense joy to former players who continue to follow Indian cricket closely. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Whenever the Indian team wins the World Cup, our celebrations and dancing will continue, Pathan said. Article Source: IANS
Litton Das to bat at No. 5 in ODIs against Pakistan
Bangladesh coach Simmons said the wicketkeeper's ability against spin was one of the reasons for the move
I Dont Think Anyone Particularly Was Dropped: Hesson Explains Babars Exclusion For Bangladesh ODIs
Muhammad Ghazi Ghori: Pakistan mens head coach Mike Hesson clarified on Monday that senior batter Babar Azam had not been dropped from the squad for the upcoming ODI series against Bangladesh, insisting the changes were aimed at giving opportunities to emerging players. Pakistan named a significantly altered squad for the series, leaving out several established names. Along with Babar, the selectors also omitted all-rounder Saim Ayub, injured opener Fakhar Zaman, wicketkeeper-batter Haseebullah, spinner Mohammad Nawaz and fast bowler Naseem Shah. In their place, six uncapped players, namely Sahibzada Farhan, Abdul Samad, Maaz Sadaqat, Muhammad Ghazi Ghori, Saad Masood and Shamyl Hussain have been included in the squad. Addressing the changes, Hesson said the decisions were part of a broader effort to test bench strength rather than remove specific players from contention. I don't think anyone particularly was dropped. I think, as I said, it's a great opportunity for us to look at some younger talent, Hesson said in the pre-match press conference. The coach pointed out that Pakistan rarely get windows in the international calendar to experiment with fresh faces due to the frequent build-up to major tournaments. We get very few opportunities in the calendar to give a number of promising players opportunities. You're either heading into a pinnacle event or just leading into it, so it depends how many players debut here, he explained. Hesson highlighted the strong performances of several newcomers, particularly Farhan, who impressed during the recently concluded ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. There's a lot of players that have been around the circuit for a while and have been waiting for this opportunity. Someone like Sahibzada Farhan has obviously forced his case through how well he's done in the T20 World Cup, but he's also done very well domestically when he's been able to play 50-over cricket as well, he said. He also praised other young players included in the squad, emphasising their domestic credentials. There's a lot of players that have been around the circuit for a while and have been waiting for this opportunity. Someone like Sahibzada Farhan has obviously forced his case through how well he's done in the T20 World Cup, but he's also done very well domestically when he's been able to play 50-over cricket as well, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Pakistans squad reshuffle comes after the teams campaign in the T20 World Cup ended before the semi-finals. Despite competitive performances, Pakistan missed out on qualification due to net run rate after failing to secure a decisive result against New Zealand. The side also struggled in key matches against stronger opponents, including defeats to England and India. Article Source: IANS
We Played With All Our Heart: Kishan, Abhishek Reflect On Indias T20 World Cup Triumph
T20 World Cup: India players Ishan Kishan and Abhishek Sharma reflected on their sides historic triumph in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, with the duo recalling the teams resilience and unity after lifting the trophy following a commanding win over New Zealand in the final on Sunday at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. In a video shared by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the two players spoke candidly about the emotions surrounding Indias title-winning campaign and the journey that led to the moment. Kishan highlighted the significance of the victory, noting that the host nation had never previously won the tournament before Indias triumph. Hosting nation never won the World Cup, and here we are. We played with all our hearts. We worked out throughout the tournament, we were in a very good headspace, we backed each other and thats what India team is all about. It was the last time at the 2023 World Cup; I was there, and we were all crying in the dressing room. But this is how things turn around. We played a very good game, credit goes to everyone, support staff, and everyone who was with us, and today here we are, lifting the trophy and we hope to do it again, Kishan said in a bcci.tv video. Abhishek, who played a key role during the tournament, described the moment of winning the World Cup as the pinnacle of his career so far. One of the best. Its the top of the moment, Abhishek said. Kishan also praised his teammate for maintaining a positive attitude even during difficult phases in the competition. Look at this champion. You dont get runs, it doesnt matter. Be in a good headspace. First of all, even when he was not scoring runs, he was always there to help each other, he said. Reflecting on his personal struggles earlier in the tournament, Abhishek credited the team environment and support staff for helping him stay confident. If you would have told me that were winning the cup and getting the last wicket as well, then I would have been suffering through that days because it wasnt easy for me. But I think the team, coaches, everyone, the way they were treating me, the way they were helping me throughout, I didnt feel alone at all for a single day. Because you never feel this in the team. When youre not scoring well, youre doing well throughout the year and then suddenlyIm very proud of the team, an emotional and overwhelmed Abhishek said. Reflecting on his personal struggles earlier in the tournament, Abhishek credited the team environment and support staff for helping him stay confident. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Im proud of him! Its a dream come true because I saw the last World Cup at home, I was really proud of the team, 2024 as well, and winning the World Cup for your team and doing well, throughout the journeyit was something to remember. Article Source: IANS
Hesson: Pakistan's new faces have 'earned the right to get opportunities'
Pakistan have six uncapped players on Bangladesh tour, with Hesson keen to test them in conditions that challenge visiting sides
