Irani Cup: After Stress Fracture Recovery, Akash Deep Raring To Hit The Ground Running
The Irani Cup: Akash Deep has spent more of the past seven months in gyms, physio rooms and walking on an anti-gravity treadmill than bowling his heart out on a cricket field. When he had his first look at Srinagar's Sher-i-Kashmir Stadium, surrounded by the Shankaracharya Temple, hills and chinar trees, this week for practice with the Rest of India team, it was a moment to savour. The Irani Cup clash, where Rishabh Pant-led Rest of India face Ranji Trophy champions Jammu and Kashmir from Thursday, is Akash Deeps first match since a stress fracture of the lower back kept him out of action. It's been great; it's my first-ever experience of being here. It's such a nice, clean, and peaceful place. Everything looks very wonderful. It feels really good to be back to playing cricket. There is a feeling of excitement to play this match soon. I told my physio that I played against Jammu and Kashmir 7-8 months ago, and now that I am back to playing cricket, I will be up against Jammu and Kashmir again, Akash told IANS in an exclusive chat on the eve of the clash. The troubled time for Akash Deep began in February, in the middle of Bengal's Ranji Trophy semi-final, ironically against Jammu and Kashmir, where he felt pain and tightness. A scan at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru confirmed an L5 stress fracture, and recovery was to be done without any surgical intervention. After a months rest, the exercises, minus the one for his back, began with light weights, and the weights increased slowly. Till the time he got his Return to Play certificate, Akash Deep was rarely alone. Mostly, our support staff, physios, trainers, and coaches, I would spend a lot of time with them more often. I would stay with them for 4-5 hours every day. They motivated me a lot and kept things simple, which helped me a lot. With every decision made for him by the CoE, who have lately got flak for heaps of injuries to players, Akash Deeps mind was free. Yes, absolutely. After such a big injury, you just have to wake up in the morning and report on time to be on the right track for recovery. After that, you don't have to think about anything much mentally. But physically, you have to give yourself there. But mentally, you don't have to think about any planning, or you don't have to think about what exercise to do, what rehab to do, when to bowl, and how much to bowl. You don't have to think about anything, and from that point of view, for an athlete, the CoE can only be a big blessing. Fellow fast bowlers Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya were also present to speak to Akash Deep. There was Jassi bhai, there was Hardik bhai, and they used to come for 2-4 days in between. Earlier, they also had such injuries, so how was their experience and how they overcame it - we used to discuss all this a little bit. He began bowling only in June with a few overs, before building up gradually to be at full tilt. Time away from the game was hard, but his positive mindset never allowed him to go into the negative space. I took it positively. I felt that after playing professional cricket continuously for 10-12 years, I felt like my body needed rest and time to work on other things, so that my professional career could be sustained for a longer period. I felt that I should work on small niggles I had and that I shouldn't ignore them, and this was my lesson from it. The rebuilding, he says, was more about awareness rather than technique. Technically, we can't do much because we have been playing for 10-12 years. Our body has gotten used to it. It's just that there are a few things to observe by yourself. To understand your body, I have worked on that. For example, when to put yourself in preparation for a match, then when to stop, and how much effort has to be put in, I was trying to observe myself in practice for all these things. By the time he passed his RTP and got the fitness certificate, Akash Deep was excited like a kid at a candy store to take the field again. I was feeling really good about being fit. But it also happens that when you are at one place for seven months, you get the sad feeling that it is time for me to leave now. At the same time, I was excited to play a few matches quickly and see how my body is reacting because all these things can be understood only by playing in a match. Long spells will be the real test for him in the autumn vibes of Srinagar. To put in long spells, the biggest preparation is in practice. Like how many long spells to put in practice, how much time to bowl, how many balls to put in - I did all those things in practice. When I play the match, I will be able to understand my body's condition in the match itself - how much time to put in, how much effort to put in for bowling overs. The mood in the Pant-led Rest of India camp, comprising other capped players Sarfaraz Khan, Manav Suthar and Saransh Jain, is pretty relaxed. Yes, it's very chill. The atmosphere of the Rest of India team is always chill, because the players come from different places and environments, so the atmosphere is always chill. Now that Akash Deeps time away from the game will end, eyes will be on how quickly he regains rhythm and picks scalps with the red ball, especially with India set to play two Tests in New Zealand in November, where he will look to add to the 28 scalps taken in ten games so far. Theres also a matter of selection for a shadow tour to be done by the A team, but for now, after having spent months adhering to a strictly monitored regimen, Akash Deeps focus is to bowl in such a way that people wont think that he was away from action. Nothing much will be on my mind. I will focus on what I have been doing for so many days, and just have to repeat the same thing. The endeavour is to make sure that the people who know me really well should feel that I am playing in such a manner that one shouldn't feel like I was out of action for seven months. Theres also a matter of selection for a shadow tour to be done by the A team, but for now, after having spent months adhering to a strictly monitored regimen, Akash Deeps focus is to bowl in such a way that people wont think that he was away from action. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Rohit Sharma has been subjected to immense media scrutiny since the ODI series against Australia in 2025. Many reports claimed that it could be his final assignment in international cricket, but the Mumbai batter has...
Matthews 118, Campbelle 96 power West Indies to 2-1 win over Zimbabwe
They added 160 in WI's total of 271, before Zimbabwe were bowled out for 180
Shadab Khan Poised For Pakistan T20 Captaincy
Experienced all-rounder Shadab Khan is expected to take over Pakistan's T20 captaincy from Salman Ali Agha, who faces removal from the shortest format squad. Major changes are anticipated in the Pakistan T20 team ahead of the upcoming series against Sri Lanka, with young players being prioritised and key bowlers like Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf potentially rested.
India-A in trouble as its top-order fails to get going
Shubman Gill continues red-hot form, smacks 11th ODI century in mammoth run-chase against WI
India and the West Indies continued their ongoing ODI series by taking on each other at the Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati on September 30. The clash began with India bowling first after winning the toss,...
200 and Counting: Kuldeep Joins Elite Indian Spin Quartet
Kuldeep Yadav became only the fourth Indian spinner to reach 200 ODI wickets, despite West Indies smashing 405/7 through centuries from Campbell, Hope and Jangoo.
DDCA Hosts MCC Workshop For Umpires Ahead Of New Laws Coming Into Effect
DDCA President Rohan Jaitley: The Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) hosted a special Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) Laws of Cricket workshop for its umpires on Wednesday, ahead of the new edition of the Laws coming into effect from October 1. The workshop, conducted by MCC, the custodians of the Laws of Cricket, was led by MCC Head of Cricket Fraser Stewart and Jonny Singer. It focused on the key changes introduced in the new edition, with participants also being taken through practical video examples and an interactive question-and-answer session. A key highlight of the programme was the launch of the MCC Laws of Cricket app in Hindi, aimed at making the Laws more accessible to the cricketing community across India. The app is available in multiple Indian languages, including Hindi, Urdu, Bengali and Kannada, among others, allowing officials, players, fans and viewers to better understand the updated Laws. Fraser Stewart, Head of Cricket, MCC, said the practical nature of the workshop allowed umpires to understand the changes and their application on the field. We are delighted to be in Delhi and to engage with the DDCAs umpires ahead of the new Laws coming into effect on October 1. The practical nature of the session allowed us to discuss the changes and how they will apply on the field, Stewart said. We are also very pleased to launch the MCC Laws of Cricket app in Hindi, helping make the Laws more widely available for everyone who follows and loves this sport deeply in India, he added. DDCA President Rohan Jaitley said the workshop would help umpires gain a clearer understanding of the changes and their practical application on the field. The Laws of Cricket form the foundation of how the game is played and officiated. As the new changes come into effect on October 1, it is important for our umpires to have a clear understanding of the changes and their practical application, Jaitley said. All of us at the DDCA are delighted to have hosted the MCC in Delhi and to have provided our umpires with the opportunity to interact directly with Fraser Stewart and Jonny Singer. The availability of the MCC Laws of Cricket app in Hindi is also a welcome step towards making the Laws more accessible to a wider cricketing community in the country, he added. The new edition includes tighter size and weight tolerances for cricket balls used in womens and junior cricket, while Type D laminated bats will be permitted in most adult or open-age cricket, subject to regulations of the relevant governing body. Among other changes, the final over of the day will be completed even if a wicket falls, provided playing conditions remain fit. The Laws also provide greater clarity on running, boundary catches, overthrows, dead ball situations and dismissals. DDCA Director Shyam Sharma said the workshop would help the Associations umpires enhance their understanding of the Laws and align their officiating with global standards. We are thankful to Rohan Jaitley, President, DDCA, for their support in bringing this MCC initiative to Delhi. Hosting the MCC team is extremely beneficial for our umpires as they get to enhance their understanding of the Laws and align with global standards, Sharma said. We will continue to take these initiatives further with ICC, BCCI and the other boards, in strengthening officiating standards in Delhi cricket, he added. We are thankful to Rohan Jaitley, President, DDCA, for their support in bringing this MCC initiative to Delhi. Hosting the MCC team is extremely beneficial for our umpires as they get to enhance their understanding of the Laws and align with global standards, Sharma said. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Shadab Khan Front-Runner To Replace Salman Ali Agha As Pakistan T20I Captain
Shadab has led the national T20 squad as a stand-in arrangement in the past while Farhan is presently in Japan for the Asian Games leading Pakistan.
The Indian team took on the West Indies in the second ODI of the ongoing series. The two sides met at the Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati on September 30, and the game began with the...
Unofficial Test: Australia A Spinners Trouble India A
Australia A, powered by Sam Harper's century and effective spin bowling from Todd Murphy and Corey Rocchiccioli, gained a significant advantage over India A on Day 2 of their second four-day match in Puducherry, leaving India A trailing by 236 runs.
Anvay Dravid to Lead Karnataka in Vinoo Mankad Trophy
Anvay Dravid, son of cricket legend Rahul Dravid, has been appointed captain of the Karnataka U-19 team for the upcoming Vinoo Mankad Trophy. The wicketkeeper-batter recently played for India U-19 and will lead his state in the one-day tournament in Visakhapatnam, scheduled from October 8-16.
Rishabh Pant Opens Up On Career Setbacks, Rehab Struggles And India's Selection Calls
Having missed out on the ongoing white-ball series against the West Indies, the game in Srinagar offers Pant an ideal platform to build rhythm ahead of the Ranji Trophy and India's upcoming Test assignment in New Zealand.
West Indies Achieve Major 1st With 3 Centuries In One Innings Against India
Centuries from John Campbell, Shai Hope and Amir Jangoo powered the West Indies to their first 400-plus total in the 50-over format, a mammoth 405 for seven against India in the second ODI
Irani Cup: Jammu And Kashmir Gear Up For Historic Clash Against Rishabh Pant-Led Rest Of India
Sher-i-Kashmir Stadium will form a beautiful backdrop as Ranji Trophy champions Jammu and Kashmir prepare for a historic Irani Cup encounter against a formidable Rishabh Pant-led Rest of India
Irani Cup | Dogra backs J&Ks pace stock in Nabis absence
Super 90 Season Four To Be Staged In Kenya From December 3 To 12
Jitendra Singh Gaur: The Super 90 League on Wednesday announced that its fourth season will be held in Nairobi, Kenya, from December 3 to December 12, 2026, marking the leagues debut in the country and bringing its unique 90-ball franchise cricket format to Kenyan audiences. The announcement sets the stage for 10 days of high-intensity cricket featuring six franchises and an international pool of players. The Season 4 draft features an exciting pool of cricketers from across the globe, representing India, South Africa, Australia, England, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Barbados, Jamaica, Guyana, Trinidad, Zimbabwe, Canada and the United States. The international composition of the draft pool reflects the leagues growing global appeal and its vision of bringing together recognised cricketing talent in a unique franchise-based format. The names of the players will be revealed at a later stage. Season 4 will feature six franchise teams competing across 18 matches under Super 90s distinctive 90-ball format. The competition is designed to deliver a compact and high-intensity cricketing experience, combining aggressive batting, strategic gameplay and entertainment, while creating a platform for players from different cricketing backgrounds to come together. Speaking about the upcoming season, Jitendra Singh Gaur, managing director, Super 90, said, The response to Super 90 Season 4 has been extremely encouraging, and bringing the league to Nairobi is an important milestone for us. The diversity of cricketing talent represented in the draft pool reflects the international character of Super 90. We are looking forward to creating a memorable experience for cricket fans in Kenya by bringing international names together with the countrys own cricketing talent. The fourth edition will also feature retired Kenyan cricketers in every franchise, providing former national players with an opportunity to return to competitive cricket and share the field with international cricketing names. Speaking about the League, Shivain Sharma, managing director, Super 90 said, The initiative is aimed at celebrating Kenyas cricketing heritage while giving local fans an opportunity to see their former stars in action alongside players from some of the worlds leading cricketing nations. The fourth edition will also feature retired Kenyan cricketers in every franchise, providing former national players with an opportunity to return to competitive cricket and share the field with international cricketing names. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
'Baramulla Express' Auqib Nabi Makes India ODI Debut Against West Indies
Jammu and Kashmir's pace sensation Auqib Nabi has made his India ODI debut against the West Indies in Guwahati. The Baramulla-born pacer, who played a key role in J&K's historic Ranji Trophy triumph and claimed 60 wickets in the 2025-26 season, became the third cricketer from J&K to represent India at the international level.
Auqib Nabi sets unwanted record on ODI debut against West Indies in Guwahati
After a long wait, Auqib Nabi finally made his international debut in the second ODI against West Indies at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati. The Kashmir pacer proved his worth in the last edition of the Ranji Trophy, claiming the most wickets and since then, he has been in the scheme of things as far as international cricket is concerned.
Todd Murphy Helps Australia A Hold Upper Hand As India Trail By 236 Runs
Todd Murphy: Off-spinners Todd Murphy and Corey Rocchiccioli accounted for three crucial wickets to push India A onto the back foot and hand Australia A the upper hand on day two of the second and final four-day game at the Siechem Stadium here on Wednesday. Bespectacled Murphy dismissed opener Sai Sudharsan (8) and plucky southpaw Yash Rathod (15), and Rocchiccioli scalped skipper Devdutt Padikkal (31) to leave the hosts struggling at 122/5 in their first innings with Shaik Rasheed (36 n.o.) and Tanush Kotian (6 n.o.) at the crease at stumps. India A, which won the opening match by 162 runs, trail by 236 runs on first innings after Australia A, resuming at 282/7, finished at a strong 358. The overnight pair of centurion Sam Harper and Jhye Richardson (31) took their eighth-wicket stand to 53, as the visitors played out the first session and were only bowled out 20 minutes after lunch, with medium pacer Anshul Kamboj dismissing Harper (128) and new man Liam Hatcher off successive deliveries. Fast bowler Jhye Richardson dismissed opener Aayush Pandey caught behind in the first over, before left-handers Sudharsan and Padikkal put on 35 for the second wicket. However, India A lost the trio of Sudharsan, Padikkal and Rathod for the addition of just 54 runs, and first-match centurion Kumar Kushagra subsequently fell lbw to fast-medium bowler Liam Scott to leave the hosts in deep trouble. Brief scores: However, India A lost the trio of Sudharsan, Padikkal and Rathod for the addition of just 54 runs, and first-match centurion Kumar Kushagra subsequently fell lbw to fast-medium bowler Liam Scott to leave the hosts in deep trouble. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Srinagar in focus as J&K aims to set the tone against Rest of India
2nd ODI: West Indies Unleash Batting Carnage, Pile Up 405 Vs India
The West Indies cricket team achieved a historic milestone by scoring 405 for seven against India in the second ODI in Guwahati. Centuries from John Campbell, Shai Hope, and Amir Jangoo powered their innings, marking the first time three West Indies batters scored centuries in a single ODI. India's inexperienced pace attack struggled, while their spinners provided some resistance.
Campbell, Hope, Jangoo centuries take West Indies to 405
Only once has a side ever lost after scoring 400, setting India needing 44 more than they have ever scored batting second
'Bat Dominance Has Gone Too Far': MCC Chief Explains Big New Cricket Law Changes
MCC Head of Cricket Fraser Stewart said on Wednesday, pointing to changes in the latest laws of the game aimed at rewarding the fielding side more.
2nd ODI: Nine Years Of First-class Cricket Gave Me The Foundation, Says Jangoo After Hitting 114
Amir Jangoo: Amir Jangoo's second ODI hundred came after a long wait and the West Indies left-hander said the years spent playing domestic cricket was the foundation behind him hitting 114, as the visitors posted a record 405/7 against India in the second match here on Wednesday. Jangoo, who walked in after John Campbell's dismissal for 101, went from 59 off 54 balls to reaching his second ODI century in just 70 balls. He eventually finished with 114 off 77 balls, his second ODI century laced with 13 fours and three sixes before being caught at backward point off Ravindra Jadeja. For me it's just hard work. There's a lot of lessons and failures in between there. As I said, I played nine years of first-class cricket before starting international cricket. So the foundation was there. So for me it was all about learning. As I told you this morning, it's all about learning as fast as possible. So it's all about enjoying international cricket now and just going out there and play free, said Jangoo in a mid-innings chat with the broadcasters. Asked on his batting approach against Kuldeep Yadav, whom he handled particularly well, Jangoo said, To be fair, we had our discussions. Well, first of all, that's a very big comparison (on comparing his spin play to the legendary Brian Lara). But, for me, I'm a pretty good player of spin, and the team believes in my ability. So when spinners were bowling, they always told me, Go out there, dominate, and we had our team discussions, and for me it was all about batting most of him and trying to bat him positively as well. So, to be fair, the wicket was a really good one as well and for me it was all about trying to play as straight as possible, trying to rotate strike and get that boundary whenever it was needed. Jangoo cut Kuldeep, Naman Dhir and Jadeja repeatedly through the off side, his stand of 182 runs with captain Shai Hope, who hit 104 off 94 balls, took the game away from India. The score of 405/7 is now the highest ODI total for the West Indies, an innings that featured three centuries. It's an amazing feeling. The boys went out there today with our game plan. We know where we went wrong in the first game, and luckily enough we executed. Credit has to go to John (Campbell) for that amazing start, and also Shai, who carried us on throughout the innings as well. Jangoo cut Kuldeep, Naman Dhir and Jadeja repeatedly through the off side, his stand of 182 runs with captain Shai Hope, who hit 104 off 94 balls, took the game away from India. The score of 405/7 is now the highest ODI total for the West Indies, an innings that featured three centuries. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
People Have To Wait: Rishabh Pant Breaks Silence On India White-Ball Snub
While Rishabh Pant continues to be a key figure in India's Test setup, he has largely been out of contention in the limited-overs formats, especially ODIs.
In the quest for longevity, Pant ready for ups and downs
2nd ODI: Jangoo, Hope, Campbell Centuries Carry West Indies To 405/7, Their Highest ODI Score
Though Sherfane Rutherford: Centuries from Amir Jangoo (114), Shai Hope (104) and John Campbell (101) helped the West Indies rewrite their ODI record books by posting an imposing 405/7 in their allotted 50 overs against India in the second ODI here at the ACA Stadium on Wednesday. The tourists' previous best score in the format was 389 against England in St George's in 2019, as they crossed the 400-run mark for the first time. With dew expected to settle in later in the evening and render bowling difficult under lights, India will rely heavily on short boundaries and a quick outfield to script a massive chase, provided they keep wickets in hand through the powerplay. Earlier, the West Indies batters produced a sensational display of power-hitting. Campbell set the tone in the powerplay en route to a dazzling 101 off 68 balls, laced with nine fours and five sixes. After Campbell pulverised the off-colour Indian bowling line-up, skipper Hope capitalised on two dropped catches when on 15 and 27 to notch up a century of his own his 104 off 94 balls was studded with eight fours and three sixes. Jangoo then provided the final flourish by accelerating dramatically from 59 off 54 balls to complete a rampant 70-ball hundred. His knock of 114 came in just 77 balls and was studded with 13 fours and three sixes. The Indian pace trio of Prasidh Krishna, debutant Auqib Nabi, and Gurnoor Brar bore the brunt of the onslaught, while spinners Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav failed to stem the run flow until late in the innings. Although the West Indies slowed down slightly in the death overs, thus preventing the total from crossing the 420-mark, India face a steep task ahead. Prasidh Krishna started with a maiden, but the innings turned quickly once Campbell found his range. Auqib Nabi, making his ODI debut, was taken for 17 runs in the fourth over by Campbell. Keacy Carty fell for nine in the fifth over when Naman Dhir held a diving catch at cover point off Prasidh, after the third umpire confirmed the fingers were under the ball. Shai Hope walked in and Campbell kept going as Prasidh conceded 22 in the seventh over, with the latter hitting a six and three fours, as the West Indies reached 50 in 6.1 overs. Campbell brought up his fifty in 29 balls, the fastest for West Indies against India in ODIs, and added another six off Gurnoor Brar in the following over, apart from carting Dhir for boundaries. After the West Indies closed the power-play at 96/1, Campbell then took only 65 balls to reach his hundred, the second fastest by a West Indian in ODIs, but was out for 101 when he top-edged a pull off Brar to deep square leg. Hope, meanwhile, was dropped on 15 by Kuldeep off his own bowling and on 27 by Virat Kohli at mid-wicket. He reached his fifty in 53 balls and then got his fourth ODI century against India off 89 deliveries. He fell for 104 when Kuldeep, who had gone wicketless until then, forced a slog and Nabi took a simple catch at third man. Jangoo was steady in his strokeplay and went from 59 off 54 balls to 100 off 70 deliveries. He cut Naman, Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja square on the off side repeatedly. Though Sherfane Rutherford skied Brar to substitute Yashasvi Jaiswal for a golden duck, and Jangoo fell after cutting Jadeja to Ruturaj Gaikwad at backward point. By that stage the West Indies had three centurions in one ODI innings, only the sixth such instance in the format's history. Kuldeep had Keemo Paul caught at long-on, and got his 200th ODI wicket in 123 games - only Mohammed Shami (104) has reached the mark in fewer matches among Indians. Jadeja removed Alzarri Joseph by having him caught at deep mid-wicket, but Roston Chase (29 not out off 25) and Shamar Joseph (14 not out off 8) ensured a big finish by adding 36 runs from the last five overs to take the West Indies past 400. India's attack took a heavy beating. Nabi conceded 84 runs, the most by an Indian bowler on ODI debut, going past Karsan Ghavri's 83 against England at Lord's in 1975. Brar, Jadeja and Kuldeep took two scalps each, but had high economy rates. Dhir, who bowled six overs, twisted his left ankle and limped off, as India will be hugely worried over the lack of penetration and impact created by their pacers in consecutive games. Kuldeep had Keemo Paul caught at long-on, and got his 200th ODI wicket in 123 games - only Mohammed Shami (104) has reached the mark in fewer matches among Indians. Jadeja removed Alzarri Joseph by having him caught at deep mid-wicket, but Roston Chase (29 not out off 25) and Shamar Joseph (14 not out off 8) ensured a big finish by adding 36 runs from the last five overs to take the West Indies past 400. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Murphy, Australia A bowlers keep India A in check
India A are 122 for 5 at stumps and still 236 runs behind Australia A's 358
IND vs SL Semi-final, Mens Asian Games 2026 Prediction, Match Preview And Playing XI
IND vs SL Semi-final, Cricket Tips: Team India are just two wins away from securing the gold in the ongoing Asian Games 2026 men's cricket competition. They will be facing Sri Lanka in the semifinal of the tournament. This contest will be held at Korogi Sports Club on Thursday at 10 AM IST. These two sides made it to the semifinal, after their respective quarter-final matches were washed out. Shreyas Iyer is leading India's star-studded lineup, while Sahan Arachchige is leading the second-string Sri Lankan side. India will look to take down their neighbors and reach the final. IND vs SL: Match Details Date : October 01, 2026 (Thursday) Time : 10:00 AM IST Venue : Korogi Sports Park, Nisshin IND vs SL: Live Streaming Details The live action of the IND vs SL semifinal will be available online on the Sony Sports Networks for the Indian fans. The live stream of the game will be available on the Sony LIV app or website. IND vs SL: Head-to-Head in T20Is Total Matches : 33 India : 23 Sri Lanka: 9 No-result: 1 IND vs SL: Ground Pitch Report The wicket in Nisshin was already very slow and sluggish, and the rain in the last few days must have made the wicket even slower. The outfield might also be on the slower side, and spinners will love this deck. We might see a low-scoring thriller here. IND vs SL: Possible XIs India : Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (wk), Shreyas Iyer (c), Ishan Kishan, Tilak Varma, Shivam Dube, Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah Sri Lanka: Niroshan Dickwella (wk), Nuwanidu Fernando, Sahan Arachchige (c), Lasith Croospulle, Ashen Bandara, Chamika Karunaratne, Dushan Hemantha, Tharindu Ratnayake, Binura Fernando, Vijaykanth Viyaskanth, Nuwan Thushara IND vs SL: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Abhishek Sharma is currently scoring runs at a higher strike rate, and if he can play 20-22 balls, he will take India to a good position. For Sri Lanka, the role of Niroshan Dickwell will be important, who has good international experience. Probable Best Bowler Axar Patel and Vijaykanth Viyaskanth are two spinners who might get a good amount of purchase from this wicket. They will be the ones to watch out for. Today Match Prediction : India have a full-strength side, and they will be the favorite to win this game on Thursday. IND vs SL Semi final, Today Match IND vs SL, IND vs SL Prediction, IND vs SL Predicted XIs, Injury Update for India vs Sri Lanka Match Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Disclaimer : The prediction or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.
Irani Cup: 'Whatever is in front of me, I will give my best,' says Rishabh Pant
Digital Desk | Srinagar, Sep 30 (IANS) Unburdened by recent non-selection in India white-ball teams, Rest of India (RoI) skipper Rishabh Pant on Wednesday said his intent to make the most of every opportunity coming his way as he fine-tunes his red-ball rhythm ahead of the Irani Cup clash against Ranji Trophy champions Jammu and Kashmir starting on Thursday. Pant has been training relentlessly and has been at his jovial best at the Sher-i-Kashmir Stadium in the run-up to the high-profile clash. Having missed out on the ongoing white-ball series against the West Indies, the game in Srinagar offers Pant an ideal platform to build rhythm ahead of the Ranji Trophy and India's upcoming Test assignment in New Zealand. For me, it's very simple. Whatever is in front of me, I will give my best. That's how I play cricket, and I keep it very simple. So whatever opportunity I get, I try to make the best out of it. For me, every game is an opportunity. I want to give my best, and I keep it very simple, said Pant during the pre-match press conference in Srinagar. Returning to action after a rare three-week break following the 1-0 Test series win over Sri Lanka, Pant insisted he remains unburdened by selection chatter, especially with him now being reduced to a one-format player for India. I try to give my best every time I take on the field, and that has been the key for me over a period of time. Yes, there will be ups and downs. When you want to have an international career for 15-20 years, you have to go through all these things. So it's that kind of mindset, and it's very simple - have the right people to guide you and just keep giving your best each and every time you take on the field. Reflecting on how his perspective evolved during his prolonged 18-month rehabilitation following a severe life-threatening car crash in December 2022, Pant credited the arduous journey for teaching him to keep things simple. See, when you have gone through so much in your life, you understand, you know, keeping it simple is the key. Obviously, when you're playing for your country, working hard is not optional. You have to work hard, you have to be mentally strong, and you've got to keep on learning and keep on improving. And that's the mindset you want to keep. Especially when you're going through a long rehab, it's always frustrating. But developing that mindset [not overthinking] is obviously challenging, but at the same time, you know, if you're playing international cricket, you have to go through challenges, he added.
2027 ODI World Cup Countdown Begins: ICC To Announce Schedule On Thursday
The countdown to cricket's biggest event on African soil in 23 years will officially begin on Thursday when the International Cricket Council (ICC) unveils the schedule for the 2027 Men's ODI World Cup during a grand launch event in Cape Town on Thursday.
Vaishnavi's six-for puts India A in driver's seat against Australia A
Left-arm spinner's 6 for 52 bowled Australia A out for 176, before India A extended their lead to 322
Mohsin Naqvi's days as the president of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) are numbered. Naqvi became the president of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) on April 3, 2025
Shai Hope breaks Brian Lara's record with century vs India in second ODI in Guwahati
West Indies captain Shai Hope played a phenomenal knock in the second ODI against India at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati. Opener John Campbell set the tone for the day with a century of...
Markram-led South Africa make five changes and opt to bowl
Having already won the series, South Africa rested their key players, including Temba Bavuma, with an eye on the Test series
ICC To Unveil 2027 ODI WC Schedule On Thursday; Ticket Ballot To Open Up For Mega Event
The International Cricket Council: The countdown to crickets biggest event on African soil in 23 years will officially begin on Thursday when the International Cricket Council (ICC) unveils the schedule for the 2027 Men's ODI World Cup during a grand launch event in Cape Town on Thursday. Set to be broadcast live on JioHotstar and the Star Sports Network from 8:30 pm IST in India, the high-profile launch ceremony at the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (Zeitz MOCAA) will mark the exact one-year landmark for the 14-team mega event, which runs from October 2 to November 21, 2027, in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia. Alongside the schedule release, the ICC will also open the global ticket ballot, giving fans worldwide a fair opportunity to secure their tickets across 12 host venues hosting 57 matches. Ten of the 14 participating nations will have secured direct qualification based on the September 30 cut-off date. Hosts South Africa and Zimbabwe receive automatic entry, and are joined by top-ranked ODI nations India, Australia, England, New Zealand, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh. The remaining four slots will be decided through a multi-team global qualifier to be played early next year, with two-time champion West Indies set to feature in it and aim to qualify for the mega event. For Indian batting stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, the 2027 ODI World Cup represents a final opportunity to cap off stellar international careers with championship glory. Speaking to JioStar, Rohit recalled the overwhelming emotion of leading India to the 2024 T20 World Cup and expressed his deep craving to replicate that feeling on the 50-over stage. It'll be great to win the upcoming ODI World Cup. I wouldn't think about full circle and all that now. Winning a World Cup for India is a special feeling. I have experienced that twice in the T20 format. In 2007, I was just a young kid of 20 years. Of course, it's a big tournament; you've won a World Cup in your first year, it's great. Then we won the Champions Trophy in 2013, and after that there was a long period, almost for 11 years, where we couldn't win an ICC title. So that's why, when we won the T20 World Cup in 2024, there was a realisation of how important it was. So that feeling is still inside to a great extent. I know what winning a World Cup feels like. So that's why I want that feeling back. The fun we had, you cant describe what that feeling is, because you can't match that. That's why winning that World Cup is very important to me, because I want to have that feeling again, which we felt recently, Rohit said. Kohli, who lifted the 2011 ODI World Cup trophy early in his career at home, declared that his final World Cup appearance provides all the motivation he needs to leave everything on the field. I'm not in a place where I feel like, if it didn't happen earlier, I have to do it now. But for me, it's the last World Cup I'm going to play for India. And that is my motivation. Like, to leave everything out there. And of course, the goal is absolutely to win the World Cup. And whatever it takes, I'm absolutely ready. My goal is to win as many games as I can for the team, and my dream is to play a match-winning knock in the finals while chasing a score; that would be ideal. If it happens, great. If it doesn't happen and we win the World Cup, I'll be just as happy because, eventually, you understand that, as much as that competitive nature is there, it's the last time you're getting to play in a World Cup. So, winning that trophy is the most important thing, he stated. Meanwhile, the free ticket ballot will remain open from October 1 until November 21, 2026. Fans can request up to four tickets per match across all categories, with a randomised draw determining allocations wherever demand exceeds stadium capacity. If it doesn't happen and we win the World Cup, I'll be just as happy because, eventually, you understand that, as much as that competitive nature is there, it's the last time you're getting to play in a World Cup. So, winning that trophy is the most important thing, he stated. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Kohli Makes ODI Rankings Surge After West Indies Masterclass
Virat Kohli's unbeaten 139 against West Indies, his 55th ODI century, lifted him to second in the latest ICC rankings, behind India teammate Shubman Gill.
Irani Cup: Jammu And Kashmir Gear Up For Historic Clash Against Pant-led Rest Of India (preview)
Star Sports Network: Set to host a red-ball fixture of a very high-profile stature after nearly four decades, the picturesque Sher-i-Kashmir Stadium will form a beautiful backdrop as Ranji Trophy champions Jammu and Kashmir prepare for a historic Irani Cup encounter against a formidable Rishabh Pant-led Rest of India side starting on Thursday. With passes being granted to the general public, fans are expected to rally behind the hosts as they step onto the field without injured fast bowler Yudhvir Singh and star pacer Auqib Nabi, who made his ODI debut for India in the clash against the West Indies in Guwahati and will be with the side till the series ends in New Chandigarh on October 3. For skipper Paras Dogra, entering his remarkable 25th first-class season, and his 15-member squad, which includes the likes of Abdul Samad, Shubham Khajuria, and Abid Mushtaq, the game serves as a major stage to prove that their maiden Ranji Trophy triumph achieved earlier this year was no flash in the pan and that the region possesses ample talent capable of making the step up to challenge the big teams consistently. Standing in their path is a Rest of India (ROI) squad boasting several international stars and domestic heavyweights. Leading the side, wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant will look to get valuable red-ball game time under his belt to remain in top form ahead of the Ranji Trophy and upcoming Tests against New Zealand. All eyes will also be on fast bowler Akash Deep, who makes his competitive comeback after a seven-month injury layoff due to a lower-back stress fracture. After last featuring in the Ranji Trophy semi-final against Jammu & Kashmir in February, Akash Deep faces a crucial fitness and rhythm test, with at least two national selectors set to watch him closely as he aims to regain his place in the Test team. For vice-captain Sarfaraz Khan, a local favourite in the valley via his in-laws' side, a strong outing will further solidify his standing for the upcoming India A tour of New Zealand. At the same time, left-arm spinner Manav Suthar and off-spinner Saransh Jain will target a strong show to push their case for consistent chances in the Test team. For fringe players like Sanat Sangwan, Ayush Doseja, Smaran Ravichandran and Anukul Roy, a good showing here will push their case for a direct doorway into the India 'A' framework. In all, intensity will remain high on both sides when play begins on Thursday. When: Thursday, October 1, 9:30 IST Where: Sher-i-Kashmir Stadium, Srinagar Where to watch: The match will be shown live on the Star Sports Network and live-streamed on the JioHotstar app and website. Squads: Jammu & Kashmir: Shubham Khajuria, Qamran Iqbal, Yawer Hassan, Shubham Pundir, Abdul Samad, Paras Dogra (captain), Kawalpreet Singh, Kanhaiya Wadhawan (wk), Abid Mushtaq, Sahil Lotra, Vanshaj Sharma, Sunil Kumar, Umar Nasir, Lone Nasir Muzaffar and Rohit Sharma Squads: Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
England players to get NOCs for Afghanistan Premier League T20
Despite ECB's stance on playing Afghanistan in bilateral cricket, it is understood that the league will be treated the same way as any other, provided it receives an ICC sanction
Asian Games Cricket: Rain Threat Hangs Over India-SL Semi Clash
India's men's cricket team, despite being full strength, faces a rusty start and weather challenges in their Asian Games semifinal against a second-string Sri Lanka. Heavy rain has hampered their practice, and while the forecast for the semifinal is clear, the final could be affected. India, as top-ranked, will progress if the match is washed out, highlighting the impact of weather on the tournament.
Ireland allrounder Simi Singh announces retirement
Simi played 35 ODIs and 53 T20Is, scoring over 2000 runs and taking 83 wickets
India and the West Indies took on each other in the second ODI of the ongoing series. The two sides met at the Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati on September 30th, and the clash began with...
Rain Disrupts Preparations, But India Ready For Sri Lanka Semi-Final: Sanju Samson
India wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson said the team utilised the weather-enforced downtime to hone strategies, bond through gym sessions, and stay mentally switched on for the semi-final clash against Sri Lanka, set to happen on Thursday.
Asian Games: 'Need To Stay Mentally Switched On Despite Rain Disruption,' Says Samson
Korogi Sports Park: Forced to practice indoors by persistent rain ahead of their crucial Asian Games semi-final against Sri Lanka, India wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson said the team utilised the weather-enforced downtime to hone strategies, bond through gym sessions, and stay mentally switched on for the semi-final clash against Sri Lanka, set to happen on Thursday. With pleasant, sunny conditions replacing recent weather disruptions, India and Sri Lanka will look for a full, fair contest to seal a spot in the Asian Games final. According to the local forecast, a warm and clear day is expected at the venue, offering relief to both teams following rain washing out all the quarter-final clashes. It rained well and it was really good to witness some good rain here in Nagoya. So, we had some good time. We have been doing some team activities. We were trying to do some practice for the team every day. But we were doing training and conditioning in the gym. So, we were spending time together. We have been talking cricket, combinations and having constant meetings to switch on the players when it is required. These are the times where we need to be a bit more aware that we need to switch on and suddenly play a big semi-final. So, we all are aware of that and luckily, we have got a good sunny day today to practice and experience whatever we have to do tomorrow, Samson told reporters on the eve of the clash. However, in the event of another weather-related washout, India will automatically advance to the gold-medal match by virtue of being the higher-ranked team in the tournament seedings. With India defending its gold medal in womens cricket, mens and womens kabaddi events, the same is expected from the Shreyas Iyer-led side. Yes, we will try our best in cricket as well. We will try our best for India as much as we can. We will see the pitch today. As I said, it is a sunny day. The covers are removed from the ground today. So, we will get a chance to see the wicket today and we will decide, added Samson. Drawing inspiration from India's stellar show in track and field events, Samson said their success bodes well for the rest of the days in the continental event. It is a very good thing that we did well in athletics yesterday. It was a very good day for India and I am very happy and I am sure that we will continue the good form, he said. Reflecting on the restless energy in the camp to get out onto the field after remaining and practising indoors, Samson revealed that the players are itching for competitive action. Yesterday we were having a chat in the gym, where we had our training session. We are saying that yes we need to get out and play some game of cricket. So, we all are very much excited to come and play a proper game of cricket. Hopefully, everything works out well tomorrow. Refusing to take Sri Lanka lightly, Samson warned against complacency. No, every game is very crucial in this format, especially in T20 format, you cannot actually say a team is weaker or strong. So, the conditions play a huge role and the shorter the format is, I think any team can dominate. I think it is still a very small margin of error and anyone can dominate at any point of the game. So, we have to give each and every team equal respect and play with a great aggressive nature and that is what we have been known for and that is what we will be doing. So, we will be focusing on the process, how we can play against them tomorrow and the results will take care of itself, he added. With both teams stepping onto unfamiliar territory at the Korogi Sports Park, Samson felt the unknown conditions level the playing field. I think yes, conditions are a bit different. I think we have never played a game here in Nagoya. Most of us are playing here for the first time. I think it is still a very small margin of error and anyone can dominate at any point of the game. So, we have to give each and every team equal respect and play with a great aggressive nature and that is what we have been known for and that is what we will be doing. So, we will be focusing on the process, how we can play against them tomorrow and the results will take care of itself, he added. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Korogi Sports Park: Having played only ten overs of competitive cricket due to relentless weather disruptions on their trip in Japan, a star-studded India will look to brush off the rustiness when they take on Sri Lanka in the second semi-final of the Asian Games mens T20 event here on Thursday. Torrential downpours in Nisshin have severely impacted the tournament schedule, leading to six abandoned matches, five of which were washed out without the toss being held. It meant both India and Sri Lanka entered the last four stage directly based on higher seedings after their respective quarter-finals were washed out. But with clear skies forecasted for Thursday, India, the current gold medal holders, are finally set to play a full T20 contest on what is expected to be a slow, sluggish pitch at the Korogi Sports Park. While India have deployed a full-strength T20I squad featuring the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Shreyas Iyer, and Ishan Kishan to defend their gold medal, Sri Lanka have fielded a second-string setup led by Sahan Arachchige, who has played just a solitary T20I till date. Sri Lanka will also rely heavily on senior figures Niroshan Dickwella and Ashen Bandara, alongside six players with fewer than ten T20I appearances and four uncapped faces. Compounding Sri Lankas challenge is their recent form in the shortest format, having managed just one victory in their last ten T20I outings and struggling consistently to breach the 150-run mark. Despite the stark contrast in team strength, India will be quick in adapting to unfamiliar Japanese conditions. Shreyas Iyers side narrowly avoided a massive upset against Japan in Sano last week, and with conditions heavily tailored to suit spinners, India's formidable attack is expected to play a pivotal role in restricting the Sri Lankan batters to a paltry total. Should bad weather intervene again, India will automatically progress to the final by virtue of their superior tournament seeding. For now, all focus lies on the fireworks a star-studded Indian team can bring on Japanese shores. When: Thursday, October 1, 10am IST Where: Korogi Sports Park, Nisshin Where to watch: The match will be shown live on the Sony Sports Network and live-streamed on the SonyLiv app and website. Squads India: Shreyas Iyer (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (wicket-keeper), Ishan Kishan (wicket-keeper), Shivam Dube, Tilak Varma (vice-captain), Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Vipraj Nigam, Ravi Bishnoi, Jasprit Bumrah, Yash Thakur, Arshdeep Singh, and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. Squads Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
ODI tri-series in Pakistan set to be scrapped with Zimbabwe unable to travel
Ireland, the third team in the planned competition, are still expected to make the tour and play a white-ball series instead
Asian Games: We Are Very, Very Fortunate To Have Someone Like Kohli, Says Samson
Indian Premier League: Describing former captain Virat Kohli as a constant source of motivation for players across generations, India wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson said the national team considers itself very, very fortunate to have someone of his stature leading by example both on and off the field. Samsons words come after Kohli hit an unbeaten 139 in the Thiruvananthapuram ODI against the West Indies, which India won by eight wickets. During the course of the knock, Kohli also surpassed the 15,000 runs mark in ODIs, and became just the second batter after Sachin Tendulkar to achieve this feat. What to say? I think we are very, very fortunate to have someone like him. I think whenever he scores, runs, practices or, turns out to play a game of cricket for our country or wherever he goes, I think it is a great inspiration for people like us still playing the game in the Indian national team and for everyone playing alongside with him. I think it definitely benefits the way he puts on the performances. So, very happy to have him, Samson told reporters on the eve of the India-Sri Lanka mens cricket semi-final at the Asian Games. With multiple Indian squads operating simultaneously across international and age-group setups, ranging from the main ODI and T20I teams to the 'A' sides and U-19 squads, Samson attributed this unmatched bench strength to a robust domestic ecosystem working in tandem with the Indian Premier League (IPL). Absolutely, I think it is all over the internet. It is a known fact nowadays how strong Indian cricket has grown from last so many years. So, I think there has been some constant effort. I think definitely IPL plays a huge role. But I feel our domestic cricket is also playing a huge role actually. We have been constantly making great efforts to go out and play all the domestic matches whenever we get a chance and that is where we tend to develop lot of talents also. So, our grooming things are really nicely placed actually. Absolutely, I think it is all over the internet. It is a known fact nowadays how strong Indian cricket has grown from last so many years. So, I think there has been some constant effort. I think definitely IPL plays a huge role. But I feel our domestic cricket is also playing a huge role actually. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Mark Boucher appointed MI Emirates head coach
He has previously been associated with MI franchise as coach of Mumbai Indians and MI New York
Comeback Time: Akash Deep Eyes New Zealand Test Ticket In Irani Cup Return
Having laid low for seven months due to a lower-back stress fracture, talented pacer Akash Deep will look to go full throttle for the Rest of India against Ranji Trophy champions Jammu and Kashmir in the Irani Cup fixture starting Thursday.
Kohli closes in on Gill at the top of men's ODI batters' rankings
There were plenty of movement among bowlers too, with Keshav Maharaj now ranked third, Kuldeep Yadav fifth and Josh Hazlewood tenth
2nd ODI: Shifting To Batting In Middle Order Comes With Different Challenges, Says Gaikwad
Ruturaj Gaikwad: Admitting that long gaps between international appearances bring a degree of nervousness, India batter Ruturaj Gaikwad said transitioning from his regular opening role to the middle order at the highest level requires comes with different challenges, including making tactical adjustments. Gaikwad, who has primarily operated as an opener for the bulk of his playing career, has batted at number four spot for India whenever a vacancy was created in the playing eleven. In ten ODIs, Gaikwad has hit a century and a fifty while amassing 241 runs. There is a lot of difference. As I said, I've been opening the batting for almost more than 100 innings now at the first-class level. So, batting middle order, especially at international cricket, comes with different challenges. You have to rotate the strike. You have to make sure that you take the right option. And often when we are batting in powerplay, you get those easy boundaries, the fielders are inside. But batting middle order, you just have to make sure you make that adjustment and, as I said, just back your strengths, whatever it is, Gaikwad said in a pre-game chat with the broadcasters. The nervousness of playing for India again is present for Gaikwad, who was unbeaten on 13 in the eight-wicket win in Thiruvananthapuram. Well, that was a long way ago (the century against South Africa in December 2025), to be honest. I had many innings in between. Obviously IPL was there as well. So played in different conditions, played at different numbers. So obviously to come back at international level after a long time, obviously there is a lot of nervousness. But I think last game it was much better to just go in there and just hang around a bit, he added. Addressing the sporadic nature of his opportunities in the national setup and how he processes the uncertainty surrounding his place in the side, Gaikwad stated that focusing on the present rather than looking too far ahead has been the key for him. So played in different conditions, played at different numbers. So obviously to come back at international level after a long time, obviously there is a lot of nervousness. But I think last game it was much better to just go in there and just hang around a bit, he added. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
J and K pacer Auqib Nabi makes India debut
Jammu and Kashmir pacer Auqib Nabi made his international debut for India in the second ODI against West Indies in Guwahati, becoming the third player from J and K to play for India in ODIs.
Shubman Gill's Big Call At Toss As India Unveil Debutant Against West Indies
Auqib Nabi has been handed his debut cap as India won the toss and elected to bowl first against the West Indies at the ACA Stadium in Barsapara on Wednesday
India vs West Indies 2nd ODI Live Streaming: When And Where To Watch Free Live Telecast
India vs West Indies 2nd ODI Free Live Telecast: After a dominating eight-wicket victory in the first ODI, India are ready to take on West Indies in the second match on Wednesday in Guwahati.
2nd ODI: Nabi Handed Debut As India Elect To Bowl Against West Indies
Nitish Kumar Reddy: Auqib Nabi has been handed his debut cap as India won the toss and elected to bowl first against the West Indies at the ACA Stadium in Barsapara on Wednesday. India are leading the three-match series 1-0, after winning the series opener in Thiruvananthapuram by eight wickets. A win on Wednesday will help them clinch the series with a game to spare. Nabi, who picked 60 wickets in Jammu & Kashmir winning the Ranji Trophy earlier this year, got an India call-up for the Test series in Sri Lanka, but didnt get to make his debut. In Guwahati, he finally gets to play international cricket for India, with him replacing Nitish Kumar Reddy in the playing eleven. Nabi is also the third player from Jammu & Kashmir to play for India after Parvez Rasool and Umran Malik. A bit more grass, and looks a little bit patchy at times. So I think there'll be a little bit more for the fast bowlers initially. Definitely, after being put under pressure in the first 20-25 overs, the way we came back was really good. It's even more humid and hotter here, so I think it's gonna be a good challenge for our fast bowlers. Definitely. I think the intensity in the field in the middle overs is what dictates the game, and I think that is one area where I thought we could have been a little bit better in the last game. So hopefully I think this game is going to be a bit better. I think everyone looked well. Even Rohit bhai was looking in good touch, so hopefully it's gonna be another good game for us, said India captain Shubman Gill. West Indies captain Shai Hope said the side have made four changes:- Justin Greaves, who is ruled out due to a calf injury sustained while hitting 101 in Thiruvananthapuram is out, as well as Jewel Andrew, Matthew Forde, and Gudakesh Motie. In place of the quartet, Sherfane Rutherford, Keemo Paul, Shamar Joseph, and Vitel Lawes have come in. Definitely would have fielded as well. For sure, coin toss is a 50-50 chance, and regardless of what happens, we got to do well. So we've got another opportunity today to put some runs on the board and try to get a good score and give our bowlers something to defend. Probably a bit more runs than that, to be fair. But just about understanding and identifying the areas we need to improve and finding ways to get better at them as quickly as we can. It's not much of a big turnaround between games. So it's about going out there, putting your best foot forward and finding the right solutions to win games. It (the batting line-up) looks pretty good. I just think it'll probably do a little bit to start, but we just have to assess quickly and then see what a good score would be at the back end, he said. Playing XIs India: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill (captain), Virat Kohli, Ruturaj Gaikwad, KL Rahul (wk), Naman Dhir, Ravindra Jadeja, Auqib Nabi, Gurnoor Brar, Kuldeep Yadav, and Prasidh Krishna Playing XIs Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
India travel to New Zealand for a two-Test series starting November 15. The series is extremely crucial for India if they are to keep their World Test Championship final qualification hopes alive
India vs West Indies, 2nd ODI LIVE Updates: India skipper Shubman Gill won the toss and opted to bowl against West Indies in the second ODI of the three-match series on Wednesday in Guwahati.
IND vs WI 2nd ODI LIVE score: India opt to bowl first, look to limit WI to subpar total
Team India takes on the West Indies in the second ODI of the ongoing series. The two sides meet at the Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati. It is interesting to note that the Men in Blue...
Team India, which was scheduled to face Afghanistan in the quarterfinal at Korogi Sports Park in Nisshin, advanced to the semi-finals after the match was abandoned without a ball being bowled due to persistent rain.
Rain stays away as India and Sri Lanka look for fair contest to enter final
The forecast is for a sunny, warm day in Nisshin; in case of another washout, India will enter the gold-medal round for being the higher-ranked team
'Yashasvi and Jwala sir told me to start cricket in Tripura': Tejasvi Jaiswal
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 30 (IANS) Star India batter Yashasvi Jaiswal's brother, Tejasvi, feels extremely proud of his brother for having made it big for India. And the boy has made it big today, with Yashasvi being a Test regular, smashing one record after the other, while he is also the back-up opener in ODIs for India and is in line to board the plane to Africa for the 2027 ODI World Cup, apart from having turned heads with his IPL and T20I batting. Tejasvi, 29, is extremely proud of his brother having made it big. I feel very proud that my brother is playing for India. It is everyone's dream. I feel very good, Tejasvi told IANS. December 6, 2025 stands as a strong coincidence between the two brothers. It was the same day when Yashasvi scored his maiden ODI hundred against South Africa in Visakhapatnam, and Tejasvi hit his maiden T20 fifty for Tripura. My parents were very happy that both their sons played well that day. It was a good feeling for us, he said. A young Tejasvi had once sacrificed his dream to play cricket to support Yashasvi to make it big one day. He worked as a salesman in Delhi to support Yashasvi to continue his dream, Tejasvi had said in an interview with sports magazine. However, he got a second wind in his career once Yashasvi was largely settled. And now he has played all formats for Tripura in the domestic circuit. It was Yashasvi and coach Jwala Singh who suggested Tejasvi play for Tripura, and he has played five First-class matches, eight List A games and four T20s for the state with fifties in each of the three formats in the limited games that he has been part of. Yashasvi and Jwala sir (their coach) told me to go to Tripura and start playing cricket again. So I started from there, he added. Tejasvi is currently playing in the Uttarakhand Premier League and has scored 117 runs in four matches for Tehri Titans with a recent blistering 19-ball 50. He is their 'icon player' and has a challenging role of batting in the top and also in the middle order, as he has to adjust to different game conditions and types of bowlers. He reflected on batting in different positions and also hailed the UPL for providing opportunities to the youngsters. I have played in the middle order as well as in the top order. I don't care about the order. I care about how I can win the match, how I can play an impactful innings, he said. It is a very important league. Thanks to the CAU (Cricket Association of Uttarakhand) for organising it. It is a very good opportunity for the youngsters here and for us as well to perform well and move forward, he said. Speaking on the time when he returned to cricket after being away for years to support his brother and family, Tejasvi stated that returning was not much of a challenge; rather he was happy to play the sport once again. It was not very challenging. When I got a chance to come back, I was very happy that I was getting to play cricket again. I was very happy that I was getting to play cricket again, he added. Tejasvi has now made a switch to Uttarakhand from Tripura and is expected to feature in the domestic circuit for them in the times to come. Playing in the 50-over Gold Cup in Uttarakhand, he scored two centuries too. I came to Uttarakhand to play the Gold Cup so that I get selected to play from here. I had a good performance (in the Gold Cup), and I am now also playing in the UPL. I want to do well in the UPL and let's see what happens next, he said.
Asian Games 2026: Indian Women Archers Defeat China 238-234 for Gold
India's women compound archery team produced a stunning performance at the Asian Games 2026 in Aichi-Nagoya, defeating China 238-234 to win the gold medal and successfully defend the title from the previous edition. Jyothi Surekha Vennam, Chikitha Taniparthi and Prithika Pradeep
India vs West Indies, 2nd ODI: Rohit Sharma-Virat Kohli's Stunning Records In Guwahati
It will be another day of festivities for cricket fans globally, particularly those of the 50-over format, as two of the format's biggest legends, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will grace Guwahati with their presence.
Gambhir Offers Prayers At Kamakhya Temple
Gautam Gambhir visited Guwahati's Kamakhya temple before meeting selectors to discuss India's New Zealand tour squads, as the team prepared to seal the ODI series against West Indies.
Ravindra Jadeja Still In India's 2027 World Cup Plans? Bowling Coach Drops Big Hint
After missing India's previous series against Afghanistan and England, Ravindra Jadeja returned to the ODI side against the West Indies.
R Ashwin Says Sachin Tendulkar Ahead Of Virat Kohli. Puts 'Condition' For Them To Be Equal
Former India all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin recently dismissed all comparisons between Virat Kohli and the legendary Sachin Tendulkar.
Molineux monitored, Hamilton out of ODIs, Brown out with back injury
Molineux is battling a hip injury but has been named to face Bangladesh and New Zealand while Hamilton is out of the ODIs with a minor quad strain
PIX: Yamal double as Spain rout Croatia; England edge Czechs
Spain, led by a brace from Lamine Yamal, defeated Croatia 4-1 to extend their unbeaten run and maintain a perfect start in the Nations League. Meanwhile, England secured a 2-0 victory over 10-man Czech Republic with goals from Anthony Gordon and Harry Kane, also continuing their strong performance in the tournament.
Sree Charani sets new ICC Women's T20I bowling record
The left-arm spinner, who is already the top-ranked T20I bowler, reached a record rating of 817 points, surpassing the previous best mark of 806 points held by Australias Megan Schutt since November 2018.
Madhya Pradesh Ranji Trophy Team Announced; Shubham Sharma To Lead in Absence Of Rajat Patidar
The Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association (MPCA) on Tuesday announced a 17-member squad for the 2026-27 Ranji Trophy season with middleorder batter Shubham Sharma as the captain.
India Bowling Coach Hails The Impact Of Star Batting Pair Rohit And Virat
Cricket World Cup: With around 600 One-Day Internationals behind them, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma make a huge presence in the Indian squad and add massive pedigree to the team. Indian team's bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule pointed out that Rohit and Virat's presence made a big impact in the first ODI against the West Indies in Thiruvananthapuram. Rohit scored 32 runs in the first ODI while Kohli struck an unbeaten century. Lauding Kohlis century in the series opener against the West Indies, Bahutule told reporters, I think he is somebody who's just getting better and better with each series and each game. He is somebody who wants to improve despite achieving so much, which is fabulous. And Rohit also being in the side, both of them just get that experience into the side, and I think all the youngsters rub upon. And they thrive upon their experience, the conversations they have. It is definitely something which helps the youngsters by their presence. India took a 1-0 lead in the three-match series after a comprehensive win in Thiruvananthapuram, and will look to clinch the series in Guwahati on Wednesday. While Kohli (139*) and skipper Shubman Gill (110) led the charge with the bat, the game was set up by Kuldeep Yadav in the first innings after the West Indies had got off to a flying start. The left-arm spinner, who nabbed figures of 4/40 off his 10 overs, kept the visiting batters at bay to restrict the Windies to 295/7. Bahutule believes Kuldeep is key to Indias efforts with the ball, given his diverse range as a spinner. Kuldeep has always been a match winner for India. He's performed exceedingly well. His numbers also show that, and he works extremely hard at his game. You know, there are certain aspects where he feels that he needs to improve. He will go into the nets, work at it. And there are aspects where he is very confident about because he's been a part of this team for years. In fact, now he went for a county stint as well. He bowled a lot of overs there. So he comes into the series well prepared. And again, he's a player who every team would want to have because, you know, it's always lively on and off the field. And at the same time, his unique, you know, skills help us to perform in any conditions. And being a spinner, a chinaman bowler definitely adds value to the team. However, with each ODI holding added significance in the lead-up to next years ICC Mens Cricket World Cup, Bahutule added that India benefits from several options in the spin bowling department. With Axar also being around, in the tournaments or series which we play in the coming time, we will be able to assess performances or who can be of utility, he said. But, Jaddu (Ravindra Jadeja), with his batting skills (and) the experience he gets in, is definitely doing well and I am sure he will be looked at in the coming time. With Axar also being around, in the tournaments or series which we play in the coming time, we will be able to assess performances or who can be of utility, he said. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Packed Stands, 'RoKo' Chants And Virat Kohli's Form: Guwahati Braces For A Cricket Spectacle
The temperature may be soaring and the popularity of ODI cricket may have waned, but there is little chance of Guwahati's Barsapara Stadium being short on emotion when Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma walk out in India colours.
We are working on our middle-overs batting: West Indies batting coach
Floyd Reifer stressed the importance of the fielding discipline after his side dropped Shubman Gill on 11 in the first ODI, with the India captain going on to score 110.
New Era Begins? Pragyan Ojha Leads Selection Panel As India Eye New Zealand Challenge
Former India left-arm spinner Pragyan Ojha, for the time being, will be the interim head of the four-man selection committee after Ajit Agarkar's departure and is in line to become the next chief selector.
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New Zealand Tour: India Selection Brainstorm in Guwahati
Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir met with the National selection committee in Guwahati to discuss the squad for the upcoming tour of New Zealand, which includes T20Is, ODIs, and Tests, as well as an India A tour. The meeting highlights the importance of early preparations for the extensive series.
UPL 2026: Vishal Dangwal Creates History With Fastest Fifty, Steals The Show In Tuesday's Fixtures
Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium: USN Indians Vishal Dangwal stole the spotlight after smashing a breathtaking 51 off just 13 balls as the Uttarakhand Premier League (UPL) 2026 witnessed a thrilling day of action at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium in Dehradun on Tuesday. Dangwal's blazing half-century was recorded as the fastest fifty in the history of the Uttarakhand Premier League 2026. In the first match of the day, Haridwar Elmas won the toss and elected to bowl first against Dehradun Warriors. The Warriors produced an impressive batting display, posting 108/7 in 10 overs. Haridwar Elmas struggled in the chase and were bowled out for 84, handing Dehradun Warriors a 24-run victory. Nishu Patel was the standout performer with the ball, claiming four wickets, and was named Player of the Match for his match-winning spell. The second match delivered the days biggest individual highlight. Tehri Titans won the toss and opted to bowl first against USN Indians, but Vishal Dangwal tore into the bowling attack with a sensational 51 runs from just 13 deliveries. His explosive knock powered USN Indians to 122/9 in 10 overs and etched his name into the UPL record books as the fastest fifty in the leagues history. Tehri Titans fought hard in the chase but could manage only 110/9, as USN Indians secured a 12-run victory. The third match saw Rishikesh RiverKings take on Pithoragarh Hurricanes. RiverKings won the toss and chose to bowl, restricting Pithoragarh Hurricanes to 105/5. Aanjaneya Suryavanshi led the Hurricanes batting effort with a blistering 58 off 21 balls. The third match saw Rishikesh RiverKings take on Pithoragarh Hurricanes. RiverKings won the toss and chose to bowl, restricting Pithoragarh Hurricanes to 105/5. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Maharaj and Lyon resume their bromance, ten years after first meeting
SA spinner talks about watching and learning from his Australian counterpart, whose brain he tries to pick
Virat Kohli's Guwahati Legacy Faces Its Next Test Against West Indies
After accomplishing a double of 15,000 ODI runs and the 86th international century with a chase masterclass at Kerala, Virat Kohli will set his eyes on a series-winning knock, preferably a century for his legion of fans in Assam.
Greaves Injury Rocks West Indies Ahead of Must-Win Guwahati ODI
West Indies opener Justin Greaves has been ruled out of the second One-Day International against India due to a calf injury sustained during his century in the series opener. This is a significant blow for West Indies, who are trailing 1-0 in the three-match series and need to win the upcoming match to stay alive.
Justin Greaves Ruled Out Of Second ODI Against India With Calf Injury
Cricket West Indies: West Indies all-rounder Justin Greaves has been ruled out of the second ODI against India after sustaining a calf injury during his century in the series opener in Thiruvananthapuram, Cricket West Indies (CWI) confirmed on Tuesday. Greaves picked up the injury while scoring a 101 off 108 balls in the opening ODI, where the West Indies posted 296 before India chased down the target with four wickets in hand. CWI said in a squad update, Justin Greaves has been ruled out of the second game of the ODI series against India after sustaining a calf injury. Greaves picked up the injury during his innings in the opening match of the series. The injury is a blow to the visitors after Greaves played an important role with the bat in the first ODI; he and John Campbell had given West Indies a brilliant start by reaching 135/0 in 19 overs and thus put India under pressure. Campbell scored 62 off 60 balls before India's bowlers were able to regain control. A special Virat Kohli show led the Indian team to chase down 297 against the Windies in Thiruvananthapuram, while captain Shubman Gill also hit a marvellous ton. Kuldeep Yadav was the star with the ball as he made crucial strikes in his 4-40 spell to play a key role in the win. The Men in Blue return to Guwahati with happy memories. They have won both of their ODIs at the venue, and their talismans Kohli and Rohit Sharma have smashed centuries. Kohli hit tons in both of those games, while Rohit also smashed one century and a half-century in one of those. It is the venue where all four innings have seen scores in excess of 300, as bowlers from both teams will be under the pump once again after being meted out a punishing treatment in the opener at the Greenfield International Stadium. Kohli put the Windies bowlers to the sword with his unbeaten 139 from 88 balls, while Gill starred with a 108-ball 110. Rohit had also looked positive with his 32 from 35 deliveries. The Windies batters also made the Indian bowlers toil as John Campbell made 62 from 60 balls while opening the innings and Justin Greaves scored 101 from 108 deliveries. The visitors were firing on all cylinders and were 135/0 after 19 overs before the Men in Blue applied the brakes, with Kuldeep leading the charge with a stellar bowling display. Nitish Kumar Reddy took a beating as he gave 1-45, while debutant Naman Dhir conceded 0-33 in his five. Gurnoor Brar remained wicketless in his 10 overs for 60 runs, but Kuldeep was the one who pulled things back. It remains to be seen whether the Indian management will make changes to the bowling attack, as Mohammed Siraj and Auqib Nabi were the bowlers to be benched for the previous game. Nitish Kumar Reddy took a beating as he gave 1-45, while debutant Naman Dhir conceded 0-33 in his five. Gurnoor Brar remained wicketless in his 10 overs for 60 runs, but Kuldeep was the one who pulled things back. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
West Indies Suffer Major Blow As Centurion Justin Greaves Ruled Out Of 2nd ODI vs India
West Indies suffered a major blow ahead of their must-win second ODI against India here on Wednesday with in-form opener Justin Greaves ruled out of the match after sustaining a calf injury during his century in the series-opener.
Was In My Towel: Malaysian Cricketer's Post After Asian Games Elimination Due To Washout Is Viral
Malaysian cricketer's epic post on elimination from the Asian Games due to a washed out match has gone viral.
Greaves ruled out of Guwahati ODI due to calf injury
The centurion from the opening game is also in doubt for the third ODI which will be played in New Chandigarh
RoKo Mania Builds Ahead of Guwahati ODI
Guwahati is abuzz with 'RoKo' mania as Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are set to play what could be their final ODI match in the city. Despite waning ODI popularity, the presence of these cricketing legends, especially Kohli's recent form and his declaration about the 2027 World Cup being his last, has created immense anticipation among fans.
Why West Indies' ODI World Cup Hopes Rest on Middle-Order Revival
West Indies batting coach Floyd Reifer has stressed the need for the middle order to show greater responsibility and regain consistency, especially as the team prepares for the ODI World Cup Qualifier. He acknowledged positives from the recent loss to India, including a strong opening partnership, and highlighted the potential of young batter Jewel Andrew.
Youth Test: Yashbardhan, Ishan bowl India u-19 to thumping win
Why Jadeja Remains Key to India's 2027 World Cup Plans
India's spin-bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule has indicated that Ravindra Jadeja's prospects for the 2027 ODI World Cup are strong, with his all-round skills being a crucial factor. The team is actively assessing various spin options, including Axar Patel, and using current series to experiment with combinations and fine-tune the squad for the upcoming showpiece event in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia.
Rohit Sharma suffered a scary slip while getting off India's team bus after the West Indies ODI, but walked away without any reported injury.
