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IND vs SA 5th T20I: South Africa win toss, elect to bowl; Samson comes in place of injured Gill

India included pacer Jasprit Bumrah, who had missed the third T20I in Dharmsala due to personal reasons, in place of Harshit Rana, while Washington Sundar came in for Kuldeep Yadav

The Hindu 19 Dec 2025 7:01 pm

ED seizes assets of around Rs 8 cr; Yuvraj, Uthappa among those involved

The Enforcement Directorate has seized assets worth Rs 7.93 crore in a crackdown on the illegal betting platform 1xBet. Action has been taken against several celebrities, including cricketers and actors, for promoting the platform through surrogate brands. These endorsements involved payments routed through foreign entities to conceal illegal funds derived from betting activities.

The Times of India 19 Dec 2025 6:54 pm

IND vs SA: Why Samson replaced Gill in India's XI for Ahmedabad T20I

Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav confirmed at the toss that Gill was unavailable due to a iggle. Sanju Samson was selected in place of Gill.

The Times of India 19 Dec 2025 6:42 pm

Curious case! Why Ajit Agarkar & Co. continue to ignore Ishan Kishan

Curious case! Why Ajit Agarkar & Co. continue to ignore Ishan Kishan

The Times of India 19 Dec 2025 6:30 pm

Why the Mumbai Maidans are being ignored? | Bombay Sport Exchange

Why the Mumbai Maidans are being ignored? | Bombay Sport Exchange

The Times of India 19 Dec 2025 6:24 pm

SL replace Asalanka with Shanaka as captain ahead of T20 World Cup

Shanaka will be the captain until the end of the forthcoming T20 World Cup

Espn CricInfo 19 Dec 2025 5:40 pm

Weeks after abandoning Pakistan tour, SL sacks Asalanka from captaincy

Shanaka's role will be of an all-rounder. When I stopped being a selector, Shanaka was the captain. Charith (Asalanka) was in our long term plans then, Wickramasingha said.

The Times of India 19 Dec 2025 5:36 pm

Alexios shines

The Hindu 19 Dec 2025 5:23 pm

Lionel Messi's visit shows India loves football icons just not Indian Football

Lionel Messis India tour exposed a stark paradox: Indians passionately celebrate global football icons but neglect their own game. While crores were spent on celebrity appearances, Indian football leagues struggle for survival, sponsors, and audiences. The frenzy highlighted misplaced priorities, where social media clout outweighs sustaining domestic football, leaving Indian players, clubs, and the sport itself at a crossroads.

The Times of India 19 Dec 2025 5:21 pm

Daily Quiz: On Lionel Messi

Lionel Messis tour of India grabbed the headlines last week. A quiz on the legendary football player

The Hindu 19 Dec 2025 5:00 pm

Exclusive: GM at 13, India's Raunak still struggles to have full-time coach

Raunak Sadhwani became a chess Grandmaster in 2019 at just 13, among Indias youngest to do so. Now 19 and ranked eighth among juniors, he reflects on the high cost of professional chess. Despite lacking a full-time coach, Raunak is competing at the top level as he prepares for the upcoming World Rapid and Blitz Championships.

The Times of India 19 Dec 2025 4:23 pm

Ishan Kishan 2.0: Calm, spiritual and matured cricketer eyes journey into future

Ishan Kishan led Jharkhand to their first Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy title. He emerged as the tournament's top scorer with 517 runs. Kishan now finds peace in reading the Bhagavad Gita. This spiritual practice has brought him maturity and a calmer approach to his game. The Jharkhand team received a Rs 2 crore reward for their historic win.

The Economic Times 19 Dec 2025 3:53 pm

OTD: India's horror show in Adelaide bowled out for lowest-ever Test total

Five years ago, India suffered their lowest Test score, 36 all out, against Australia in Adelaide. Despite a first-innings lead, a dramatic collapse saw them set a meager target. However, the team, led by Ajinkya Rahane after Virat Kohli's departure, staged a remarkable comeback, winning the series 2-1 in Australia.

The Times of India 19 Dec 2025 3:29 pm

Bowling no-show sparks Ben Stokes fitness fears

England captain hasn't bowled yet in Australia's second innings as hosts build daunting lead

Espn CricInfo 19 Dec 2025 3:05 pm

India vs South Africa 5th T20I Ahmedabad Weather: Will fog or rain disrupt the match and how will the pitch behave?

India vs South Africa 5th T20I Pitch Report: The final T20 International between India and South Africa is set for Ahmedabad. India holds a 2-1 series lead. This match will determine the series winner. Both teams will use this game to prepare for the T20 World Cup. Jasprit Bumrah returns for India. The Narendra Modi Stadium is known for high scores.

The Economic Times 19 Dec 2025 2:47 pm

Josh Inglis' availability comes under scanner after LSG bags Aussie for Rs 8.6 crore

Australian batter Josh Inglis secured a large bid from Lucknow Super Giants for IPL 2026. This comes despite prior communication from the BCCI stating his limited availability due to marriage. The BCCI and IPL Governing Council are monitoring the situation. Inglis was released by Punjab Kings before the auction. The episode raises questions about potential exploitation of the situation.

The Economic Times 19 Dec 2025 2:47 pm

Ishan Kishan's bhangra celebration steals the show - WATCH

Ishan Kishans innings helped Jharkhand post a formidable 262/3, anchored by a 177-run second-wicket partnership with Kumar Kushagra, who contributed a lively 81 off 38 balls. Medium pacer Anukul Roy delivered a crucial all-round performance, taking two early wickets and adding a rapid 40 off 20 balls, while Haryanas Yashvardhan Dalal top-scored with 53 in a losing cause.

The Times of India 19 Dec 2025 2:21 pm

How SMAT winner Ishan Kishan found calm amid chaos through the Bhagavad Gita

Ishan Kishan's career has seen dramatic highs and lows, culminating in a period of reflection and a renewed focus on his game. Inspired by the Bhagavad Gita, he found inner peace and a disciplined approach, leading Jharkhand to a maiden T20 title. This transformation marks a significant turning point, as he aims to reclaim his place in the Indian team.

The Economic Times 19 Dec 2025 2:01 pm

IND vs SA Live Streaming, 5th T20I: When and where to watch the Ahmedabad decider

India vs South Africa 5th T20I Live Streaming: India and South Africa clash in a high-stakes T20I decider in Ahmedabad. With India leading 2-1 and a previous match washed out, this final encounter is crucial for South Africa to level the series. Both teams also use the game as a T20 World Cup dress rehearsal, with Jasprit Bumrah returning for India and Shubman Gill's fitness uncertain.

The Economic Times 19 Dec 2025 1:58 pm

IND vs SA 5th T20I Playing 11: Shubman Gill's availability in doubt, who will make the cut? Check probable XI

India vs South Africa 5th T20I Playing 11 Prediction: India will make a late decision on their playing eleven for the fifth T20I against South Africa. Shubman Gill's availability is uncertain due to a toe injury. Sanju Samson is a strong contender if Gill is ruled out. India leads the series 2-1 and aims for a series win. This is India's final international match of the year.

The Economic Times 19 Dec 2025 1:36 pm

Head joins Bradman club: Adelaide hundred puts Travis Head in elite history

Travis Head achieved a remarkable feat at Adelaide Oval, joining cricketing legends like Don Bradman by scoring centuries in four consecutive Tests at the same venue. His unbeaten hundred against England solidified Australia's Ashes dominance, showcasing a blend of aggression and maturity. This century, a childhood dream, further cements Head's reputation as a big-match player.

The Times of India 19 Dec 2025 1:24 pm

Head's century puts Australia on brink of retaining Ashes

England must win the match after suffering heavy defeats inside two days in Perth and inside four days in Brisbane, both by eight wickets. However, the task appears monumental, with the highest successful run chase at the venue being 316, achieved by Australia against England back in 1902.

The Times of India 19 Dec 2025 1:11 pm

Head's hometown century floors England after brief hopes of fightback

Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer got the deficit below 100 in the morning but England's bowlers were unable to maintain sustained pressure

Espn CricInfo 19 Dec 2025 12:55 pm

Vijay Hazare: No Rohit, Yashasvi, Suryakumar, Dube in Mumbai squad

Mumbai's Vijay Hazare Trophy squad omits star India players like Rohit Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav, with captain Shardul Thakur leading the side. Selection chief clarifies availability will dictate inclusion, while Yashasvi Jaiswal awaits medical clearance. Ajinkya Rahane will rest initial matches due to a hamstring issue.

The Times of India 19 Dec 2025 12:52 pm

Indian squad for T20I World Cup and T20I series against New Zealand to be announced on Dec. 20

India is placed in Group A alongside Namibia, the Netherlands, Pakistan, and the United States and will start its campaign against the USA on February 7 in Mumbai

The Hindu 19 Dec 2025 12:42 pm

U19 Asia Cup semifinal: What if rain washes out India vs Sri Lanka clash?

India and Sri Lanka are set to clash in the ACC Under-19 Asia Cup semifinal, but persistent rain in Dubai poses a significant threat. If the match is washed out, India will advance to the final due to their superior group stage performance, having topped Group A with a perfect record.

The Times of India 19 Dec 2025 12:39 pm

Messi tour fallout: Sourav Ganguly slaps 50 crore defamation suit on football fan club official

Uttam Saha, while speaking to a journalist, had accused Ganguly of being the actual man behind organising Messi's G.O.A.T India tour

The Hindu 19 Dec 2025 12:36 pm

King and Campbell give West Indies century opening stand after New Zealand declare on 575

Rachin Ravindra scored a half-century to extend New Zealand's innings as West Indies' bowlers showed more discipline than on the first day despite missing Kemar Roach

Espn CricInfo 19 Dec 2025 11:53 am

From borrowed money for trials to IPL pick: Vishal Nishads remarkable rise

Hailing from a humble village in Gorakhpur, Vishal Nishad's journey to the IPL is a testament to perseverance. Despite financial struggles, a supportive coach and friends paved his way. His 'mystery bowling' caught the eye of Punjab Kings, who secured him for Rs 30 lakh, marking a life-changing moment for the young cricketer and his family.

The Times of India 19 Dec 2025 10:42 am

Four Decembers of Ishan Kishan: Double century, dropped, Bhagavad Gita, redemption

Ishan Kishans career has swung between extremes a historic double century, prolonged benching, questions over attitude and eventual spiritual rediscovery. Across four Decembers in four years, the wicketkeeper-batter found solace in the Bhagavad Gita amid professional setbacks. Now leading Jharkhand with explosive returns, Kishans hunger to reclaim his India place burns brighter than ever.

The Times of India 19 Dec 2025 10:39 am

AUS vs ENG third Test: Travis Head fires quickfire 68 as Englands Ashes hopes fade

England lost the first Test at Perth inside two days and the second in Brisbane inside four, both by eight wickets, and only victory in Adelaide can save them

The Hindu 19 Dec 2025 10:12 am

Shubman Gill injury opens T20I auditions as NZ series, T20 WC loom

Shubman Gill's injury opens doors for T20I experimentation, with Yashasvi Jaiswal and potentially Sanju Samson vying for the opener's spot. KL Rahul is being considered for a middle-order wicketkeeper role, while Rinku Singh and Ruturaj Gaikwad also remain in contention. The bowling unit is largely stable, though Axar Patel's absence might see Washington Sundar return.

The Times of India 19 Dec 2025 10:06 am

Varun Chakravarthy's rise gives India middle-overs edge ahead of T20 WC

Varun Chakravarthy has transformed from a 'one-season wonder' to the world's top T20I bowler, becoming India's crucial asset for the 2026 T20 World Cup. His mastery of variations, including a potent googly, makes him a formidable wicket-taking threat in the middle overs. This redemption arc sees him dominate opposition batsmen, proving his indispensable value.

The Times of India 19 Dec 2025 9:49 am

Ashwin breaks down RCB's luck and strategy at IPL Auction 2026

Ravichandran Ashwin lauded RCB's sharp auction strategy, highlighting their shrewd acquisitions of young talents Vihaan Malhotra and Kanishk Chouhan for Rs 30 lakh each, showcasing excellent scouting. He also praised the successful bid for Venkatesh Iyer at Rs 7 crore, despite competition, and noted the team's overall strong performance in the IPL 2026 mini-auction.

The Times of India 19 Dec 2025 9:32 am

5th T20I: India look to end series on winning note against South Africa

Fans anticipate the final India-South Africa T20I in Ahmedabad, hoping for a decisive win after a fog-affected series. With key players like Suryakumar Yadav and Shubman Gill facing form slumps and injuries, India faces selection challenges. South Africa aims to level the series, while India seeks a morale-boosting victory before the World Cup.

The Times of India 19 Dec 2025 9:28 am

Despite injury, Shubman Gill travels with team to Ahmedabad

Shubman Gill's participation in the series decider against South Africa is uncertain. The Indian vice-captain sustained the blow during a net session prior to the fourth match and was unlikely to feature in Wednesdays game in Lucknow, which was eventually washed out because of adverse weather.

The Times of India 19 Dec 2025 8:35 am

NZC chief executive steps down citing differences over 'long-term direction of the game'

I do not wish to create ongoing instability by continuing without the support of some key stakeholders, Scott Weenink says

Espn CricInfo 19 Dec 2025 8:33 am

NZ Cricket CEO resigns amid deep rift over future T20 league NZ20

New Zealand Cricket's chief executive, Scott Weenink, has resigned after a two-year tenure marked by a significant rift over the proposed NZ20 franchise T20 league. Players and member associations strongly supported the new league, aiming to attract foreign investment and top talent. Weenink's departure follows irreconcilable differences in strategic vision for the sport's future in the country.

The Times of India 19 Dec 2025 8:21 am

IND vs SL U19 Asia Cup: Toss delayed due to rain in Dubai

The Times of India 19 Dec 2025 8:03 am

The last dance of 2025: India chase a perfect finish in 5th T20I

The last dance of 2025: India chase a perfect finish in 5th T20I

India Today 19 Dec 2025 5:59 am

Kemar Roach unavailable for second day's play in Mount Maunganui

The fast bowler left the field on Thursday clutching his hamstring. In addition to that loss, Shai Hope has fallen ill as well

Espn CricInfo 19 Dec 2025 5:19 am

'Not very professional': PBKS co-owner slams Josh Inglis over IPL 2026 availability

Punjab Kings co-owner Ness Wadia slammed Josh Inglis for his unprofessional late disclosure of limited availability for IPL 2026 due to his wedding. Wadia expressed disappointment, stating the franchise planned retention around Inglis, only to learn of his brief availability just before the deadline. Despite criticism, Wadia wished the player well.

The Times of India 19 Dec 2025 5:00 am

Gavaskar slams Messi for Kolkata ruckus - 'Failed to honour commitment'

Sunil Gavaskar challenges the narrative blaming Kolkata's Messi event on the organisers. He argues the focus should be on whether Messi himself fulfilled his commitments. Gavaskar suggests that if Messi's team failed to honour agreed-upon activities, they, not local mismanagement, were the primary culprits. He urges checking commitments on both sides before assigning blame.

The Times of India 19 Dec 2025 5:00 am

How did 'unavailable' Josh Inglis fetch 8.6 cr? PBKS fume after fresh twist to story

How did 'unavailable' Josh Inglis fetch 8.6 cr? PBKS fume after fresh twist to story

India Today 19 Dec 2025 4:05 am

Alcaraz and Sinner carve up the Slams in a gripping 2025

While off-court battles over pay and governance rumbled on, opportunities were scarce beyond the duopoly at the top of the men's game, leaving Djokovic to provide the year's standout moments for the chasing pack.

Rediff 19 Dec 2025 2:35 am

Super Kings seismic shift Dads Army to T20 babies

The shedding of conservatism and embarking on a bold new tomorrow represents a dramatic change in the make-up of the teams DNA; how the revamped outfit performs in the 2026 edition will be followed with greater interest than normal; the franchise revisited its approach in light of the miserable campaign last year

The Hindu 19 Dec 2025 12:18 am

Cricket: England's Ashes hopes hanging by a thread as Australia press for victory in Adelaide

After a challenging outing in Adelaide, England's aspirations for reclaiming the Ashes are hanging by a thread. The Australian bowlers unleashed a relentless attack, leaving England reeling at 213 for eight. While Captain Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer displayed tenacity, the gap to Australia looms large. With just a draw needed to hold onto the Ashes, the pressure mounts.

The Economic Times 19 Dec 2025 12:04 am

Tennis: 'Sincaraz' rivalry lights up 2025 season, women share the spotlight

Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner engaged in a fierce rivalry, each securing two Grand Slam titles. Alcaraz triumphed at the French Open and US Open, while Sinner claimed glory at the Australian Open and Wimbledon. Meanwhile, the women's circuit celebrated a diverse year, crowning four distinct champions.

The Economic Times 18 Dec 2025 11:53 pm

ISL clubs asked to submit proposal regarding consortium

ISL clubs have been instructed to submit proposals for a league management consortium ahead of the 2025-26 season. This follows the expiry of the AIFF's Marketing Rights Agreement with FSDL, leaving the league without a commercial framework. The Indian Women's League will also proceed without a sponsor due to a failed agreement.

The Times of India 18 Dec 2025 11:00 pm

Badminton: Indian Satwiksairaj & Chirag defeat Indonesian duo of Fajar Alfian & Shohibul Fikri

SPORTS DESK In Badminton, Indias mens doubles pair of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty today defeated the Indonesian duo of Fajar Alfian and Muhammad Shohibul Fikri in three games 21-11, 16-21, 21-11 to inch closer to a semi-final spot in the BWF World Tour Finals in Hangzhou, China. With this win, Satwik and Chirag finished []

The Indian Awaaz 18 Dec 2025 9:55 pm

'Pretty humbling': Lyon reacts after surpassing McGrath in Tests

Nathan Lyon has achieved a significant milestone in cricket. He has become Australia's second-highest wicket-taker in Test matches. Lyon surpassed the record previously held by Glenn McGrath. This achievement places him behind only Shane Warne in Australian Test cricket history. Lyon expressed his humility and pride in reaching this landmark. He acknowledged the support of his teammates in his success.

The Times of India 18 Dec 2025 9:20 pm

Ishan Kishan explodes in final as Jharkhand script history with maiden SMAT title

Ishan Kishan smashed a century to guide Jharkhand to their first Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy title. Jharkhand defeated Haryana by 69 runs in the final. Kishan scored 101 off 49 balls. Jharkhand posted a massive 262 for 3. Haryana were bowled out for 193. This victory marks a historic moment for Jharkhand cricket.

The Times of India 18 Dec 2025 9:07 pm

Ishan Kishanleads Jharkhand to a memorable maiden triumph

The skippers 49-ball 101 and his 177-run partnership withKumar Kushagrahelps the team pile up a massive total of 262 which proves too much for Haryana to overhaul

The Hindu 18 Dec 2025 8:55 pm

Kishan and Kushagra lead Jharkhand to SMAT glory

The pair muscled Jharkhand to 262, ensuring they clinched their maiden T20 trophy with ease

Espn CricInfo 18 Dec 2025 8:54 pm

Dec 18 Throwback: When Messi lifted WC and touched immortality

On December 18, 2022, Lionel Messi finally achieved his lifelong dream, leading Argentina to World Cup glory in a thrilling final against France. Despite an early setback, Messi inspired his team, scoring crucial goals and demonstrating unwavering belief. This victory cemented his legacy, fulfilling a pursuit that defined his career and a generation of fans.

The Times of India 18 Dec 2025 8:20 pm

CRICKET | Chance for India to end series on a high

TWENTY20 | Cricket likely to take centre stage after the weather disruption in Lucknow with the Narendra Modi Stadium pitch and the dew factor making it conducive for scoring runs; South Africa, meanwhile, will count a series draw in the T20 format as a successful conclusion to the tour

The Hindu 18 Dec 2025 7:36 pm

Indian 2000 Guineas to be staged on Dec. 21

The Hindu 18 Dec 2025 6:52 pm

IPL 2026: R Ashwin leaves out CSK from his top four, fourth pick comes as surprise

Ravichandran Ashwin has revealed his top four IPL contenders, notably excluding his former team Chennai Super Kings. He placed Mumbai Indians at the forefront, followed by defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Punjab Kings, and Rajasthan Royals. Ashwin lauded Mumbai Indians' strategic acquisition of Quinton de Kock, believing they are aiming to replicate their 2020 championship squad's balance.

The Times of India 18 Dec 2025 6:31 pm

Siddle three-for, all-round Stoinis give Stars a winning start

Stoinis complemented his two-for in the first innings with an unbeaten 31-ball 62 in the chase

Espn CricInfo 18 Dec 2025 6:28 pm

Josh Inglis confirms wedding plans will minimise his IPL availability

Inglis is set to get married in early April, with the IPL set to run from March 26 to May 31

Espn CricInfo 18 Dec 2025 6:14 pm

Pakistani kabbadi player faces disciplinary action for representing Indian team

Ubaidullah found himself in big trouble after videos and pictures of him wearing Indian shirt and waving the Indian flag went viral

The Hindu 18 Dec 2025 5:05 pm

Wanted to 'bat big' - Conway on his 323-run opening stand with Latham

The opener says it was a collective decision to bat first on a green pitch

Espn CricInfo 18 Dec 2025 5:00 pm

Curacao qualified for FIFA World Cup, what's our long-term plan? Indian football comes up in Rajya Sabha

India's football future was debated in the Rajya Sabha. A Congress member highlighted Curacao's World Cup qualification to question the Sports Minister about long-term plans. The Minister stated that the All India Football Federation (AIFF) is responsible for football development and has plans for both men's and women's teams.

The Economic Times 18 Dec 2025 3:44 pm

Indian Street Premier League: Sourav Ganguly joins Tiigers of Kolkata as co-owner and mentor

Former India captain Sourav Ganguly is now co-owner and mentor for Tiigers of Kolkata. This is for the upcoming Indian Street Premier League season. The tournament is set to take place in Surat. It will run from January 9 to February 6, 2026. Ganguly aims to develop raw street cricket talent. He will help players build match-winning habits.

The Economic Times 18 Dec 2025 2:44 pm

'Snicko needs to be sacked' - Aussies fume in latest controversy

Hosts incensed as Jamie Smith surives review after Alex Carey's reprieve on day one

Espn CricInfo 18 Dec 2025 2:42 pm

Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Elite Final Haryana vs Jharkhand Live Streaming, Playing 11, Pitch Report, Weather Update

HAR vs JHK SMAT 2025 Final Prediction: Jharkhand and Haryana clash in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy final on December 18 in Pune, both vying for their maiden title. Haryana enters with a dominant win, while Jharkhand secured their historic spot despite a recent loss. The match promises an exciting contest between two determined sides.

The Economic Times 18 Dec 2025 2:28 pm

IND vs SA 5th T20I: India look to seal series against plucky Proteas as concerns mount around SKY, Gill

Skipper Suryakumar Yadav and his deputy Shubman Gill are battling challenges of their own with less than two months to go for the T20 World Cup

The Hindu 18 Dec 2025 2:13 pm

Mohun Bagan banned from AFC games, fined 91 lakh over Iran pullout

Mohun Bagan Super Giant faces a ban from AFC club competitions until 2027-28 and a hefty fine of over $100,000 for refusing to travel to Iran for an AFC Champions League Two match. Citing security concerns for international players, the club's withdrawal led to disqualification and compensation payments. The AFC also fined the AIFF and FC Goa for separate incidents.

The Economic Times 18 Dec 2025 2:09 pm

'Protect the match-winner': Ex-India batter warns on Bumrah workload

Former cricketer Robin Uthappa has cautioned India to carefully manage Jasprit Bumrah's workload due to his explosive pace and demanding action, highlighting him as a crucial but physically vulnerable asset. Despite disruptions, the T20I series has seen India's dominance, with South Africa showing competitiveness but inconsistency. Both Uthappa and Dale Steyn praised India's young batting talent.

The Times of India 18 Dec 2025 1:52 pm

Ashes: England's struggles continue against Australia amidst Snicko controversy

England faces a tough challenge in the third Ashes Test. Australia posted 371 runs. England is struggling at 213 for 8. They trail by 158 runs. Three days remain in the match. Australia needs a draw to retain the Ashes. England's batting has seen some resistance. The team's leadership is under scrutiny.

The Times of India 18 Dec 2025 1:51 pm

'Stop winter cricket in North India': Shukla sounds alarm after Lucknow T20I

A thick blanket of smog forced the abandonment of the India-South Africa T20I in Lucknow, prompting the BCCI to reconsider winter scheduling in North India. Vice-president Rajeev Shukla called the air pollution an emergency, signaling a potential policy shift. Concerns over player safety and hazardous AQI levels led to the match's cancellation, with a series decider now set for Ahmedabad.

The Times of India 18 Dec 2025 1:06 pm

England Ashes Dreams On Life-Support As Australia Rip Through Batting

A pumped-up Australia ripped through England's fragile batting Thursday to leave the tourists staring down the barrel of a third Test defeat with their Ashes campaign on the brink, barring a miracle. At stumps on a sweltering day two, the visitors had ground to 213-8, trailing by 158 after Australia added 45 to their overnight 326-8 as temperatures soared to 40 Celsius. A gutsy Ben Stokes was not out 45 after facing 151 balls with Jofra Archer on 30 in a Test England must win and on a pitch ideal for batting. They were not helped by another suspect decision by the Snicko technology, but at least avoided the follow-on. Australia lead the five-match series 2-0 and will retain the urn if they win or draw after back-to-back eight-wicket thumpings in Perth and Brisbane. Opening pair Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley saw off the early overs from Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins. But it was a mirage with England losing three wickets for five runs in a 15-ball blitz, the latest chapter in a familiar tale. Cummins first tempted an edge from Crawley, on nine, to wicketkeeper Alex Carey in the Australian skipper's first Test since July after lower back issues. - Lyon strikes - Then in a stroke of genius, he brought on spin king Nathan Lyon, who was controversially left out for the pink-ball second Test at the Gabba. Lyon grabbed two wickets in a sensational opening over with a hapless Ollie Pope (3) flicking to Josh Inglis at midwicket before he bowled Duckett for 29. Joe Root was fortunate to survive in the next over when he edged Scott Boland to Carey, but a review showed it did not carry. England's most experienced player failed to capitalise and was gone in the third over after lunch to Cummins, with Carey collecting another edge. It was the 12th time Cummins has dismissed Root -- more than any other bowler. With the Ashes on the line, Stokes needed to show what he called a bit of dog and he barely flinched when a Starc bouncer dangerously hit the back of his helmet. He was given the all-clear and set about rescuing the innings before Cameron Green was introduced just before tea and Carey took another catch to remove Harry Brook. Jamie Smith settled in but departed for 22 when Carey took what Australia claimed was a faint bottom edge off Cummins. The Snicko showed a small spike despite a gap between bat and ball, with Stokes shaking his head as Smith trudged off. On day one, Carey starred with an emotional century on his home ground, but it was shrouded in controversy over a Snicko error when he was on 72 and given not out. England failed to have the decision overturned on review with replays showing a noise spike before the ball reached his bat. Carey later conceded he likely edged the delivery from Josh Tongue that was caught behind and the technology operator admitted to an error. In my view it's not good enough, Cricket Australia boss Todd Greenberg said of the technology before play started on Thursday. We're hoping to get some answers so we can be assured it won't happen again. Scott Boland removed Will Jacks (6) and Brydon Carse (0) before Archer dug in with Stokes. The hosts resumed on the back of Carey's 106 and a gritty 82 from Usman Khawaja, with Starc on 33 and Lyon yet to score. Starc plundered five quick fours before being bowled by Archer for 54. Lyon and Boland then piled on the pain in a 23-run last-wicket stand before Lyon was trapped lbw for nine by Archer, who ended with 5-53. Also Read: Live Cricket Score

CNMSports 18 Dec 2025 1:02 pm

IPL auction: KKRs mystery pick Kamra mirrors Chakravarthy, impresses Nayar

KKRs Rs 30-lakh signing Daksh Kamra is already drawing comparisons with Varun Chakravarthy for his mystery spin and similar bowling patterns. The 22-year-old Haryana all-rounder, who clocks 9597 km/h googlies and packs power-hitting ability, has impressed coaches and scouts, including Kumar Sangakkara and Abhishek Nayar, after a rapid rise through the under-23 ranks.

The Times of India 18 Dec 2025 12:53 pm

Dubious hat-trick: India worst doping offender for third straight year, says WADA

Indian athletics (76) had the highest number of doping cases in 2024, followed by weightlifting (43) and wrestling (29)

The Hindu 18 Dec 2025 12:50 pm

Ahmedabad welcomes India, SA for final hurrah of epic tour

With the series still alive, SA need a win to share the T20I series honours

Espn CricInfo 18 Dec 2025 12:14 pm

India look to seal series against plucky Proteas as concerns mount around SKY and Gill

India faces South Africa in the final T20I in Ahmedabad. India holds an unassailable 2-1 lead in the series. Captain Suryakumar Yadav and vice-captain Shubman Gill are battling form and injury issues. Sanju Samson is poised to replace Gill. India's bowling attack shows promise. South Africa seeks to draw the series and find form for key batters.

The Economic Times 18 Dec 2025 12:13 pm

'Worst technology': Starc slams Snicko as fresh controversy erupts at Ashes

The snickometer faced intense scrutiny during the third Ashes Test after controversial decisions involving Alex Carey and Jamie Smith. Australian bowler Mitchell Starc branded the technology he worst ever after Smith was reprieved despite a visible glove movement. Further confusion arose when Snicko later ruled Smith out, highlighting its unreliability.

The Times of India 18 Dec 2025 11:55 am

Ecuadorian police say football player Mario Pineida has been shot dead in an apparent attack

Ecuador is expected to have its most violent year on record with more than 9,000 homicides, according to the Ecuadorian Observatory of Organized Crime

The Hindu 18 Dec 2025 11:54 am

Conway 178* and Latham 137 grind West Indies to dust in Mount Maunganui

It was a rare instance of New Zealand choosing to bat at home, but 334 for 1 after the first day's play showed just why Tom Latham broke with tradition

Espn CricInfo 18 Dec 2025 11:53 am

MI Emirates defend 137 to leapfrog Delhi Capitals in ILT20 thriller

MI Emirates edged past Dubai Capitals by seven runs in a tense ILT20 clash, defending 137 at the Dubai International Stadium. Jonny Bairstows 67 laid the foundation before Rashid Khans two-wicket burst derailed the chase. Capitals collapsed late, losing momentum despite Jordan Coxs resistance, as MI Emirates climbed to third on the table.

The Times of India 18 Dec 2025 11:46 am

Has any international match been abandoned due to fog before Lucknow T20I?

India's fourth T20I against South Africa in Lucknow was abandoned without a ball bowled due to excessive fog, sparking fan outrage and refund demands. This rare occurrence mirrors a 1998 Pakistan vs. Zimbabwe Test in Faisalabad, also called off entirely due to thick fog, highlighting the unusual nature of such cancellations in international cricket.

The Times of India 18 Dec 2025 11:02 am

Watch: McGrath 'pretends' to throw a chair as Lyon spins past him

Nathan Lyon has surpassed Glenn McGrath on Australia's all-time Test wicket list, claiming his 564th scalp on Day 2 of the third Ashes Test. His crucial double-wicket maiden over shifted the momentum, prompting a humorous reaction from McGrath in the commentary box. Lyon now trails only Shane Warne in the record books.

The Times of India 18 Dec 2025 10:27 am