Pakistan End Away Test Drought With Dominant Win Over West Indies
Pakistan levelled the brief series against the West Indies on Wednesday, completing an eight-wicket win just after lunch on the fourth day of the second and final Test at Queen's Park Oval in Trinidad. Beaten by 90 runs in the first Test the previous week at the Brian Lara Stadium in the south of the island, the visitors were left with a target of only 75 runs after the home side -- already in deep trouble overnight at 103 for six in the second innings -- were dismissed for 117 half-an-hour into the start of the day's play. Abdullah Shafique and captain Babar Azam guided their team to victory after openers Imam-ul-Haq and Azan Awais fell cheaply to pacers Jayden Seales and Shamar Joseph with Babar hoisting consecutive sixes off spinner Jomel Warrican to seal the result. It gave Pakistan a share of the series in the same manner of their last campaign in the Caribbean in 2021, when they rebounded similarly from losing the first Test to take the second, both matches played then at Sabina Park in Kingston, Jamaica. Their last meeting in Pakistan, for two Tests in Multan in January of 2025, also finished 1-1. This match was a personal triumph for Shafique. Not included in the original touring party and only flown in last week as replacement for the injured Shan Masood, his unbeaten 160 was the cornerstone of Pakistan's first innings total of 387. This felt like a debut match for me, it was really unexpected, said Shafique on receiving the Player of the Match award and reflecting on his own stop-start international career. I haven't been able to get the opportunities recently, but as a professional you have to work towards a comeback and give of your best. This was also Pakistan's first Test victory at Queen's Park Oval since 1977, when captain Mushtaq Mohammad's all-round performance took his team to a series-levelling win in the fourth Test of a five-match series. West Indies however won the decider in Kingston to take that rubber 2-1. Obviously you are satisfied when you win, but most important for us was the way we executed our plans, said Barbar, who has now won nine of his 12 Test matches as captain away from home. The way Abdullah (Shafique) played in the first innings and the way the spinners bowled in the second innings really made the difference. - Frontline spinners star - Pushing aside the hotly-debated omission of senior seamer Mohammad Abbas on the first morning of this Test, Pakistan prevailed with their two frontline spinners starring in the victory. Off-spinner Sajid Khan, who was omitted for the first Test, made the most of his recall with a match haul of eight for 117, although he was not required on the final morning as the other spinner, left-arm orthodox Ali Usman, took two of the last three wickets to fall to claim four for 39 in the innings and match figures of six for 119. West Indies were hampered by the absence of regular opening batsman Brandon King who was unable to bat because of back spasms suffered in effecting the run out of Pakistan captain Babar Azam for 88 the day before. Khan had taken four for 32 to engineer the West Indies second innings collapse late on day three, yet Babar opted for the combination of Usman and seamer Mohammad Ali to complete the job on the fourth morning. They were aided though by poor shot selection from the hosts' lower order. Kemar Roach, noted for his tailender's defiance as displayed in the first innings, swung hopefully at the second delivery he faced from Usman to be bowled for a duck. Justin Greaves, the last real hope for any meaningful West Indian resistance, dragged an attempted pull at Mohammad Ali onto his middle stump, and the innings was wrapped up when Shamar Joseph, having already struck two boundaries, essayed another big swing at Usman only for a skied leading edge to be easily pouched by wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan. We should probably have gone into the match with an extra spinner as I underestimated the extent of my finger injury, West Indies captain Roston Chase admitted. As for the batting, I thought we should have made a better effort of coping with the spin in the second innings so as to give our bowlers something reasonable to defend. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Pakistan's win also broke a streak of eight consecutive Test match defeats away from home, which started with a 360-run annihilation at the hands of Australia in Perth in December 2023.
Jos Buttler Names Player Who Will Surpass His World Record Of Most T20 Runs, He's From India
Jos Buttler on Wednesday scaled a historic peak in cricket. Buttler surpassed West Indies legend Kieron Pollard to become the leading run-scorer in T20 history
Jasprit Bumrah, who was rested for the third and final ODI against England last month, will miss the upcoming two-match Test series as he is yet to recover from an impact injury.
Jaydev Unadkat set to continue County Championship stint, slated to join Sussex's camp
Veteran India pacer Jaydev Unadkat is all set to make his return to England in the latter stages of the week to continue his stint in the County Championship. Unadkat will be joining Sussexs camp and will hope to put in a good showing in the tournament.
Trent Rockets soar clear at top with fifth consecutive victory
Sam Billings seals scrappy chase after Phoenix stutter to 111 for 6 despite Joe Clarke fifty
No practice games for Australia before next year's India Tests: head coach McDonald
The Australians will, however, play tour games against local sides during upcoming assignments against South Africa and England
LNS vs ML Match 23, The Hundred Mens 2026 Prediction, Match Preview And Playing XI
LNSvs MLMatch 23, Cricket Tips :The defending champion MI London have found some form at the right time in the ongoing Hundred Men's 2026. They beat Manchester Super Giants in the last game by 45 runs. That win should give them enough confidence going into the next round. They will face London Spirit in match 23. This contest is scheduled to kick off at 11 PM IST on August 6 (Thursday) at Lord's Cricket Ground. Another win will help them to inch closer to the next round. Meanwhile, London Spirit are in desperate need of a win. They are in the bottom two, and their qualification is almost impossible from here. LNS vs ML: Match Details Date : August 6, 2026 (Thursday) Time : 11 PM IST Venue : Lord's Cricket Ground, London LNS vs ML: Live Streaming Details The LNS vs ML clash will be live on the Star Sports Networks on the cable TVs. The live stream of this game will be on the FanCode mobile app or website. LNS vs ML: Head-to-Head in The Hundred Total Matches : 11 London Spirit : 2 MI London : 8 No-result: 1 LNS vs ML: Ground Pitch Report This is the second consecutive game at this venue. It is expected to offer good movement and swing early on. The bounce is good, and the surface will allow fast bowlers to trouble the batters. The record suggests that batting second will be key here. LNS vs ML: Possible XIs London Spirit : Jonny Bairstow (wk), Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Liam Livingstone (C), James Rew, Dewald Brevis, James Coles, Jamie Overton, Andrew Tye, David Willey, Adam Milne, Adam Zampa MI London: Will Jacks, James Vince, Sam Curran (C), Nicholas Pooran (wk), Sherfane Rutherford, Ollie Pope, Rashid Khan, Tom Curran, Trent Boult, Nathan Sowter, Richard Gleeson LNS vs ML: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Liam Livingstone and Nicholas Pooran are two batters with attacking natures, and they can change the game on their own. Probable Best Bowler Rashid Khan and David Willey are coming off good performances in the last game. They will be confident going into this game.Today Match Prediction: MI London have been the better side, and they will start this game as favorites. LNS vs ML Match 23, The Hundred Men's Competition 2026, Today Match LNS vs ML, LNS vs ML Prediction, LNS vs ML Predicted XIs, Injury Update for LNS vs ML Match Also Read: Live Cricket Score Disclaimer : The prediction or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.
LNS-W vs ML-W Match 23, The Hundred Womens 2026 Prediction, Match Preview And Playing XI
LNS-W vs ML-W Match 23, Cricket Tips :MI London Women are the only team that has not won a single game in the ongoing Hundred Women's 2026. They are at the bottom of the points table and are virtually knocked out. They have played five games and have yet to win a single match. MI London Women will face London Spirit Women in the next game. This contest will start at 7:30 PM IST on Thursday at Lord's Cricket Ground. The situation of London Spirit is not good either. They have six points and three games left to play. They need to win three remaining games to survive in the competition. LNS-W vs ML-W: Match Details Date : August 6, 2026 (Thursday) Time : 7:30 PM IST Venue : Lord's Cricket Ground, London LNS-W vs ML-W: Live Streaming Details The live action of the LNS-W vs ML-W clash will be televised on the Star Sports Networks. Fans can watch the live stream of the game on the Jio Hotstar app or website. LNS-W vs ML-W: Head-to-Head in The Hundred Total Matches : 7 London Spirit : 2 MI London: 4 No-result: 1 LNS-W vs ML-W: Ground Pitch Report Lord's Cricket Ground has a good wicket to bowl. The fast bowlers will get a good amount of swing and movement. The consistent bounce will allow these bowlers to trouble the batters. These batting conditions will get a little better, and chasing will be ideal in these conditions. LNS-W vs ML-W: Possible XIs London Spirit Women : Amy Jones (wk), Grace Harris, Marie Kelly, Marizanne Kapp, Nadine de Klerk, Charis Pavely, Deandra Dottin, Katie George, Charlotte Dean (c), Trudy Johnson, Hannah Rainey MI London Women: Alice Davidson-Richards, Hayley Matthews, Hollie Armitage (c), Amelia Kerr, Nicola Carey, Chinelle Henry, Alice Monaghan, Kira Chathli (wk), Tara Norris, Alexa Stonehouse, Kirstie Gordon LNS-W vs ML-W: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Grace Harris is the leading scorer for London Spirit and will be key for them. For MI London, Hayley Matthews is someone who can score runs at any stage and change the game. Probable Best Bowler Charli Dean and Kirstie Gordon are two in-form bowlers and will have an important role in this game. Today Match Prediction: MI London are struggling with their form, which is why London Spirit are expected to win this game. LNS-W vs ML-W Match 23, The Hundred Women's Competition 2026, Today Match LNS-W vs ML-W, LNS-W vs ML-W Prediction, LNS-W vs ML-W Predicted XIs, Injury Update forLNS-W vs ML-W Match Also Read: Live Cricket Score Disclaimer : The prediction or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.
Jos Buttler Breaks Massive T20 World Record With Blistering Knock In The Hundred
Jos Buttler achieved the feat during the Super Giants' fixture against the Welsh Fire in The Hundred at the Old Trafford Cricket Ground.
Babar powers Pakistan to series-levelling win against Windies
Pakistan successfully chased down a target of 75 runs on Day 4 to level their two-Test series against West Indies 1-1, with captain Babar Azam sealing the victory with two sixes despite an injury scare.
New T20 King! Jos Buttler Smashes All-Time Record
England's Jos Buttler has surpassed West Indies legend Kieron Pollard to become the leading run-scorer in T20 history, achieving this milestone during a Men's Hundred match where he scored an unbeaten 51 off 20 balls.
Former England captain Jos Buttler on Wednesday shattered the world record for most runs scored in T20 cricket . Buttler, the 2022 T20 World Cup-winning skipper, achieved the feat during the Hundred 2026 when he smashed an unbeaten 51 from 20 balls to power Manchester Super Giants to a strong nine-wicket win against Welsh Fire in Manchester.
Lumsden, Abbott run through Glamorgan to keep Hampshire in contention
Jake Lehmann and Ben Brown hit fifties in comfortable win for home side
Rahane shares untold story of his bond with Kohli
Former Indian cricketer Ajinkya Rahane revealed that Virat Kohli would never share the 'secrets and calculations' behind his masterful white-ball chasing abilities, even with teammates. Rahane also highlighted the strong camaraderie and complementary playing styles that made their Test partnership successful.
Patel drives Surrey before Lawes four-for sinks Kent
Dom Sibley and Tommy Ealham also impress to maintain Surrey's bid for knockouts
Rahane blames 1 big mistake for Team India's Test decline
Former Indian cricketer Ajinkya Rahane believes India's recent Test struggles stem from the departure of senior players, emphasising the need for a core of seven to eight experienced cricketers in the longer format.
Updated WTC Points Table After Pakistan Thrash West Indies
Pakistan have risen a spot in the WTC points table after thrashing the West Indies by eight wickets in the second Test of a two-match series in Trinidad
Shafique, spinners give Pakistan rare overseas win
Pakistan made short work of West Indies on the fourth morning to register their first away Test win in three years
Buttler takes T20 runs record as Super Giants snap losing streak
Buttler surpasses Kieron Pollard's benchmark with 20-ball 51* against Welsh Fire
Dunkley 65 helps fire Rockets joint top of table
Phoenix chances hit after struggling effort with the bat at Trent Bridge
Australia's Ashes Hero Michael Neser Suffers Setback, Eyes Comeback vs South Africa
Michael Neser, 36, was not a part of the Aussie squad for the home Tests against Bangladesh starting next Thursday, due to return of star pacers Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood after a lengthy injury lay-off.
After Stephen Fleming Exit, Another CSK Stalwart Could Be On His Way Out
Stephen Fleming, the former New Zealand captain, is scheduled to officially take charge of the England side during their three-match Test tour of South Africa in Decembe
India Get Major Boost As Star Nears Return After Injury Scare Ahead Of Sri Lanka Tests
Sai Sudharsan's participation in the two-match Test series starting August 15 was subject to fitness clearance.
Australia head coach Andrew McDonald has confirmed that his team will not be playing in practice matches before the high-octane Border-Gavaskar series and instead will have a preparatory camp, similar to the sub-continent conditions.
DPL 2026: Dhull's Century Powers Central Delhi To Dominant Win Over Purani Dilli
Central Delhi Kings: Central Delhi Kings continued their impressive run in the Delhi Premier League (DPL) 2026 with a commanding nine-wicket victory over Purani Dilli 6 in a rain-curtailed 15-over contest at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Wednesday, riding on a sensational unbeaten century from captain Yash Dhull. Asked to bat first, Purani Dilli 6 endured a difficult start as Central Delhi Kings' pace attack struck early. Money Grewal was the chief destroyer, dismantling the top order with a disciplined spell that left the batting side struggling at 55/5 in the ninth over. His incisive bowling ensured Purani Dilli 6 remained under pressure for the majority of the innings. With wickets falling at regular intervals, Rohan Rathi and Ashwini Chillar steadied the innings with an important sixth-wicket partnership. The pair added 85 runs to revive the innings after the early collapse and gave their side a fighting chance. Rathi took the aggressive approach, smashing 46 runs from just 21 deliveries with a series of attacking strokes that shifted the momentum briefly in Purani Dilli 6's favour. Chillar played the supporting role to perfection, remaining composed throughout his 38-run knock off 29 balls and ensuring the partnership flourished. Thanks to their rescue act, Purani Dilli 6 recovered to post a competitive total of 140/7 from their allotted 15 overs. Money Grewal finished as the standout bowler for Central Delhi Kings, returning impressive figures of 3/22 from his three overs. Gavnish Khurana also played a key role in restricting the opposition, claiming 2/22 while maintaining pressure during the middle overs. Chasing a target of 141, Central Delhi Kings produced a batting display of the highest quality. Opening the innings, Yash Dhull dominated the Purani Dilli 6 bowling attack from the outset and never allowed the required run rate to become an issue. Money Grewal finished as the standout bowler for Central Delhi Kings, returning impressive figures of 3/22 from his three overs. Gavnish Khurana also played a key role in restricting the opposition, claiming 2/22 while maintaining pressure during the middle overs. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Supported by his batting partner, Dhull guided Central Delhi Kings to the target with remarkable ease as they sealed a comprehensive nine-wicket victory well inside the allotted overs. Article Source: IANS
Ireland to play Qualifier for 2027 ODI World Cup
A washout in the first ODI against Afghanistan ended Ireland's chances of securing direct entry into the World Cup
Nirankars dream debut helps Dindigul Dragons overcome Ashwin-Varun absence in TNPL 10 opener
While Ashwin is in the dugout as a mentor and not on the field, Varun Chakaravarthy is yet to recover from a hamstring injury
Prendergast stars as Fire boost qualification hopes
Manchester Super Giants manage just 85 but make Fire work hard for points
Scott Edwards, Roelof Van Der Merwe Lead Netherlands Surge In ICC ODI Rankings
Netherlands captain Scott Edwards was among the biggest beneficiaries of the latest rankings update after his match-winning knock of 57 against Nepal.
No Rishabh Pant, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sanju Samson: Sunil Gavaskar's World Cup 2027 Squad Rated 9/10
The ODI World Cup 2027 is still 14 months away. The permutations, combinations, and speculations surrounding the Indian squad for the marquee event have already started taking shape
After Pakistan Cricket Board Refuses To Publish Audit Reports, Court Says This
The Pakistan Cricket Board has faced persistent scrutiny over financial transparency and it has not uploaded any audit reports/financial statements on its website since 2024.
One Slip Could Cost West Indies A Direct ODI World Cup Spot. Here's Why
West Indies are currently 10th in the ODI rankings and have just two matches remaining before the September 30 cut-off, both against India in September.
2027 ODI World Cup Qualifier Set To Be Held From February 22 To March 23: Report
ODI World Cup Qualifier: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has reportedly finalised the window for the 2027 ODI World Cup Qualifier, with the 10-team tournament set to be held from February 22 to March 23 next year, marking the final pathway to cricket's showpiece 50-over event. While the dates have now been locked in, the host nation for the tournament is yet to be confirmed. The Qualifier will determine the final teams advancing to the 2027 ICC Men's Cricket World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia from October 4 to November 21. As reported by Cricinfo, the ICC has completed the scheduling of the tournament but is still finalising the venue. The qualification pathway follows the revamped format announced by the governing body in July, introducing a new structure for the expanded 14-team World Cup. Under the revised system, the winner of the Qualifier will progress directly to the 12-team main stage of the World Cup. The teams finishing second, third and fourth will advance to the newly introduced Super Series, the opening phase of the tournament, where they will compete for the final place in the main group stage. The Qualifier will feature 10 teams comprising the two lowest-ranked Full Member nations in the ICC ODI rankings, excluding hosts South Africa and Zimbabwe, as of September 30, 2026. They will be joined by the top four teams from the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup League 2 and four teams emerging from the World Cup Qualifier Playoff. Under the revised system, the winner of the Qualifier will progress directly to the 12-team main stage of the World Cup. The teams finishing second, third and fourth will advance to the newly introduced Super Series, the opening phase of the tournament, where they will compete for the final place in the main group stage. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Their hopes of avoiding the Qualifier will also depend on the outcome of Afghanistan's upcoming ODI series against Ireland, with ranking permutations likely to determine the final automatic entrants. Article Source: IANS
Australia Reveal Stunning Blueprint Ahead Of Five-Test Blockbuster In India
The five-match Test series will start on January 21 in Nagpur and end on March 3 in Ahmedabad. It will mark Australia's longest tour of India in 50 years.
New England Test Coach Stephen Fleming Approaches Hussey For Batting Coach Role: Report
While Australian David Saker: Newly-appointed England red-ball head coach Stephen Fleming has approached former Australian batter Michael Hussey to join his support staff as the team's batting coach, said a report by 7News Australia on Wednesday. Fleming, who was handed the reins of the Test side recently after the sacking of Brendon McCullum, reached out to Hussey, 51, to gauge his interest in taking up the role. The report also said although no formal contract has been offered yet by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), Hussey remains Fleming's primary choice for the position. Hussey is currently coaching Welsh Fire in 'The Hundred' and is yet to make a decision regarding his availability for the assignment. He also serves as the batting coach of five-time IPL winners Chennai Super Kings (CSK), where Fleming had been the head coach since 2009. The potential appointment would see a remarkable Ashes reunion 14 years after Hussey last played for Australia in 2013. Fleming and Hussey share a long-standing professional relationship spanning over 15 years, having first played together for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the inaugural season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2008, before working together as coach and assistant coach at the franchise. Fleming, the former New Zealand captain, is scheduled to officially take charge of the England side during their three-match Test tour of South Africa in December. Former England batter Marcus Trescothick will serve as interim head coach for the upcoming three-Match Test series against Pakistan, starting August 19 at Headingley. The potential appointment would see a remarkable Ashes reunion 14 years after Hussey last played for Australia in 2013. Fleming and Hussey share a long-standing professional relationship spanning over 15 years, having first played together for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the inaugural season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2008, before working together as coach and assistant coach at the franchise. Also Read: Live Cricket Score As of now, Simmons is a bowling consultant at CSK and had been Indias bowling coach when they won the 2011 Mens ODI World Cup and even worked in the South Africa set-up. Article Source: IANS
Aiden Markram Leaves The Hundred Midway; Buttler Named Manchester Captain
Manchester Super Giants: Manchester Super Giants have been dealt a blow amid the ongoing season of The Hundred, as their captain, Aiden Markram, has left the tournament and returned home due to personal reasons at a crucial stage of the competition. Manchester Super Giants have announced the signing of Michael Bracewell as Markram's replacement. The team has handed the leadership baton to former England skipper Jos Buttler. As reported by Cricinfo, Aiden Markram will miss the remainder of The Hundred 2026 as he returned home to South Africa for personal reasons in the middle of the tournament in England. Manchester Super Giants can confirm that men's captain Aiden Markram has returned to South Africa due to personal reasons. Everyone at the Super Giants would like to extend our very best wishes to Aiden at this time, and thank him for his contribution to the team during this year's competition, the franchise said in a social media post on Wednesday. Markram, who is part of all three teams of the Super Giants franchise in the Indian Premier League (IPL), SA20 and The Hundred, played five matches in the ongoing 100-ball tournament and scored 117 runs. He scored a brilliant half-century in the last match against MI London at the Oval. Buttler is looking in great touch in the ongoing season. The wicketkeeper batter has scored 226 runs in just five matches at a brilliant average of 112 and would look to continue his momentum when he takes on the leadership role for the first time since the Champions Trophy 2025. Markram, who is part of all three teams of the Super Giants franchise in the Indian Premier League (IPL), SA20 and The Hundred, played five matches in the ongoing 100-ball tournament and scored 117 runs. He scored a brilliant half-century in the last match against MI London at the Oval. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The team is currently sixth in the points table and will have to make a strong comeback in the remaining matches to have any chance of making it to the knockouts. Article Source: IANS
Paaji, Bahut Ho Gaya: Meeting With Sachin Tendulkar That Changed Virat Kohli's Lifestyle
Over the years, the right-handed batter has set a new benchmark for fitness and has become an inspiration for millions of fans.
Suzie Bates takes up domestic contract with Otago after 20 years
The former NZ allrounder is currently part of Sunrisers Leeds' support staff in the women's Hundred
Aiden Markram has left Manchester Super Giants midway through the Hundred due to personal reasons and will be missing the rest of the season. Markram, who has blown hot and cold this season, was appointed...
Why BCCI's Crucial Review Meeting After England, Ireland Losses Is Yet To Take Place
The BCCI was supposed to conduct a review meeting after three straight losses in the T20I series in Ireland and England, which was followed by an ODI series loss against the latter
Public Works Department: In a modern cricketing landscape obsessed with speed guns, former Jammu and Kashmir captain Samiullah Beigh believes true quality lies in the ability to move the ball off the pitch, a trait he identified in fellow fast-bowling all-rounder Auqib Nabi. Nabis sensational rise has earned him a maiden call-up to the Indian Test squad for the upcoming two-match series against Sri Lanka, thus making him the first player from Jammu and Kashmir to get a call-up to the national red-ball side. Beigh, who also works as an assistant engineer in the Public Works Department in Srinagar, spoke exclusively to IANS about the all-rounder, the physical and mental endurance essential in unearthing relentless seamers in the valley, and how overcoming adversity makes players from smaller states uniquely tenacious. Excerpts- Q. Back in 2022, you mentioned somewhere that Auqib Nabi is someone to watch out for. Now that he has been called up to the Indian Test team as Jasprit Bumrahs replacement, how does it feel to see that prediction become a reality? A. Yes, back in 2022, I held a two-month coaching camp for the senior Ranji team at the JKCA ground in Srinagar. I could see raw talent in him, wherein he could move the ball off the pitch from the same spot without any major change in action. Having played at higher level myself as a fast-bowling all-rounder, I immediately spotted that this trait is extremely rare in the cricketing world, and this lad could go places if groomed properly. In that camp, we worked on a few things without tinkering with his natural abilities. Q. Nabi's teammates call him Hacker because of hitting the exact same spot relentlessly without overcomplicating things. How crucial can this specific brand of discipline be in international cricket compared to the sheer raw pace of someone like Umran Malik? A. In modern-day cricket, raw pace means nothing unless it is backed up with the ability to deviate the ball off the pitch. Umran Malik is a glaring example of a bowler with raw pace only, which is why he is struggling to get into the state team. Auqib has magic in his wrists, and the cricketing world will be really surprised to see his skill set in slightly helpful conditions, though Sri Lanka may not necessarily be the place for his ideal debut. Q. The dry, sluggish pitches in Sri Lanka historically reward seamers who plug away at disciplined lengths and extract subtle movement. Given Nabi's success on flat decks and in stifling humidity in the Ranji Trophy, how well-equipped do you think he is to succeed in Galle or Colombo? A. Galle as well as Colombo are historically non-ideal for pacers; they are either very flat or square turners. Any fast bowler would hate to make his debut in such conditions. But Auqib, being a rare commodity, will definitely provide lots of control to the team if given a chance, and he will surely make the new ball talk at least for a few overs. Q. You have spoken previously about how you would carry drinks for the zonal team despite being amongst the wickets as players from traditional powerhouse states were mainly in the playing eleven. With Auqib in the Test team and six J&K players recently making the North Zone squad for the Duleep Trophy, do you feel that systemic bias has finally been dismantled? A. No, systemic bias takes a lot to overcome it is an inherent bias. Although live broadcasts and J&K creating history by winning the Ranji Trophy have helped, I believe the mindset of selectors and people who matter has still not overcome that block regarding selecting players from J&K. If that were not the case, Auqib should have been selected for the tours of England, the West Indies, or Afghanistan, or at least in the first-choice squad for the Sri Lanka series. Q. Coach Ajay Sharma mentioned that J&K cricketers used to be picked for the Duleep Trophy merely as quota players. As a former player, what does it mean to you to see J&K players now single-handedly pulling their team into winning the Ranji Trophy and commanding spots in the Duleep Trophy on merit? A. This statement by coach Ajay Sharma exactly highlights that the bias towards cricketers from this part of the country hasn't gone away. There was never a quota system. If that were so, I recall at least two instances where I was not picked for the North Zone squad despite being the highest wicket-taker in the league round of the Ranji Trophy. Simply put, the selectors wouldn't take our performances seriously, and I think not much has changed. Q: Former J&K players Abdul Qayoom and Mohammed Mudhasir have spoken a lot about the fast bowling talent in J&K. What exactly is it about the J&K cricketing environment that breeds fast bowlers with such relentless stamina? A. Fast bowling is about genes and passion. Here, we are naturally well-built and very passionate about fast bowling from a very young age. Plus, our diet and climate help build the stamina and strength needed for a fast bowler to survive the test of time and longevity. Most of our good fast bowlers have served for a decade or so. For instance, Abid Nabi and I played for about 16 to 17 years for the senior J&K Ranji team. Q. A few years ago, you stated that for J&K to truly capitalize on its gold mine of fast bowlers, the BCCI and JKCA needed to appoint a permanent fast-bowling coach and trainer. With the rise of first Umran and now Auqib, is that need fulfilled, or are the players still relying mostly on raw talent and short-term mentorship? A. Yes, the JKCA has to appoint a full-time, all-weather bowling consultant for J&K fast bowlers, and not just for one season. Fast bowling is about preparing in off-season and pre-season camps, when J&K currently has no coach available to train and groom fast bowlers across various age groups. The J&K Cricket Association would do well to think along those lines. Q. What immediate impact do you think Nabi sharing a dressing room with Mohammed Siraj and the Indian support staff will have on the young fast bowlers currently training back in Baramulla, Srinagar and various parts of J&K? A. Yes, the JKCA has to appoint a full-time, all-weather bowling consultant for J&K fast bowlers, and not just for one season. Fast bowling is about preparing in off-season and pre-season camps, when J&K currently has no coach available to train and groom fast bowlers across various age groups. The J&K Cricket Association would do well to think along those lines. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Everything we achieve now feels like a bonus because, given the adversity we have seen, not many expect us to reach those levels. And when we do, we don't look back. I am sure Auqib will do wonders in the days to come. Article Source: IANS
Pakistan stars in trouble after Zambia league
The Pakistan Cricket Board is considering a two-year ban for several former national players who participated in the unsanctioned Asian Legends Cup in Lusaka, Zambia. The tournament, which was not approved by the ICC or the Zambia Cricket Union, saw players like Mohammed Irfan, Imran Nazir, and Yasir Shah take part, while others like Muhammad Hafeez and Shoaib Malik withdrew. The PCB has warned of severe disciplinary action, including ineligibility for future cricketing assignments.
Why Only Gautam Gambhir? Indian Players Cautioned Over Rising Pressure On Coach
Pressure is mounting on India head coach Gautam Gambhir after a poor UK tour as Sri Lanka Test series offers a chance for redemption.
Mitchell Marsh, Sam Curran Returns To SA20 As Franchises Finalise Pre-Auction Squads
The fifth season of the SA20 will see T20 superstars Mitchell Marsh, Joe Root, Sam Curran, Jason Holder and Phil Salt joining the fold as the six franchises confirmed their pre-auction retentions and signings ahead of the new edition
Sai Sudharsan update: When will GT batter join Indian team for Sri Lanka Test series?
Sai Sudharsan's absence from the Indian team that reached Sri Lanka for the two-match Test series raised eyebrows as the batter stayed at the BCCI Centre of Excellence to rehabilitate from the toe injury he...
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has reportedly finalised the dates of the ODI World Cup 2027 qualifier, as teams will battle it out to stake their claim for the 14-team global showpiece which will take...
ICC Rankings: Edwards, Van Der Merwe Lead Netherlands Surge In ODI Charts
Cricket World Cup League: Netherlands players were rewarded for their recent performances in the ICC Mens Cricket World Cup League 2 as several members of the Dutch side made significant gains in the latest ICC Mens ODI rankings released on Wednesday. The Netherlands have been in impressive form during the ongoing League 2 competition and recently registered a 57-run victory over Nepal in Utrecht to strengthen their position inside the top four of the standings, keeping themselves on course for a place in the ICC World Cup Qualifier. Captain Scott Edwards was among the biggest beneficiaries of the latest rankings update after his match-winning knock of 57 against Nepal. The right-handed batter climbed four places to joint 34th in the ODI batting rankings. The Dutch bowlers also enjoyed notable gains following the win over Nepal. Veteran left-arm spinner Roelof van der Merwe moved up 11 places to joint 63rd in the ODI bowling rankings after claiming two wickets in the contest. Fast bowler Logan van Beek also progressed, rising three spots to 76th after taking two wickets in the same match. Nepal players were also rewarded for their performances during the tri-series involving the Netherlands and Namibia. Wicketkeeper-batter Aasif Sheikh climbed two places to 76th in the ODI batting rankings. Among the bowlers, Lalit Rajbanshi improved by one position to reach 45th, while pace-bowling all-rounder Karan KC made one of the biggest jumps for Nepal, rising seven places to joint 83rd in the ODI bowling rankings. Namibia, who also featured in the League 2 tri-series, had four players register gains across the batting, bowling and all-rounder rankings. Jan Frylinck made the biggest leap among Namibias batters, climbing 16 places to joint 90th in the ODI batting rankings. Namibia, who also featured in the League 2 tri-series, had four players register gains across the batting, bowling and all-rounder rankings. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Scholtz moved up one position to joint 34th in the ODI all-rounders rankings, while Smit climbed three places to joint 47th, capping a productive rankings update for the Namibian contingent following their League 2 campaign. Article Source: IANS
Aiden Markram to miss remainder of the Hundred due to personal reasons
Jos Buttler will take over the Manchester Super Giants captaincy for rest of season
SA20: Sunrisers Eastern Cape sign Mitch Marsh; Salt returns to Pretoria, Root to Royals
Durban's Super Giants and Paarl Royals have completed their 19-player squads before the mini-auction on October 7
India's Chances Of Reaching World Test Championship Final Over? Aakash Chopra Explains
India will tour Sri Lanka for a two-match Test series starting from August 15 onwards. India are currently fifth in the World Test Championship standings.
Marsh, Root, Curran Top Players Signed For SA20 Season 5. Du Plessis, Tahir Released
Season 5 of SA20 gets underway on January 17, 2027, at St George's Park in Gqeberha, and will culminate with the final at Newlands in Cape Town on February 21.
Sri Lanka Cricket To Host Annual Awards Ceremony In Colombo On Friday
Sri Lanka Cricket Awards: Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) said that it will host the annual awards ceremony in Colombo on Friday, where they will honour the finest male and female cricketers for their outstanding performances during the 2025 season. The prestigious event will recognize 42 outstanding performers across both international and first-class domestic cricket. The highlight of the evening will be the presentation of the highly coveted Mens Cricketer of the Year and Womens Cricketer of the Year awards. Other major international accolades across formats include awards for the Best Batter, Best Bowler, Best All-Rounder, as well as the Mens Emerging Player of the Year and Womens Emerging Player of the Year. We are delighted to stage the annual Sri Lanka Cricket Awards 2025, which serve as a fitting tribute to the exceptional performances of our players during the 2025 season, said Ashley De Silva, Chief Executive Officer of SLC, in a statement. On the domestic circuit, top performers in first-class cricket will be recognized with trophies for Best Batter, Best Bowler, Best All-Rounder, and Most Valuable Player (MVP). The champion teams of the Major Club Three-Day Tournament, Major Club Mens 50-Over Tournament, Major Club Womens 50-Over Tournament, and Major Club T20 Tournament will also be felicitated during the function. In addition, SLC will present four Lifetime Achievement Awards, honouring two cricketing stalwarts alongside two distinguished media personalities for their long-standing contribution to the sport. On the domestic circuit, top performers in first-class cricket will be recognized with trophies for Best Batter, Best Bowler, Best All-Rounder, and Most Valuable Player (MVP). The champion teams of the Major Club Three-Day Tournament, Major Club Mens 50-Over Tournament, Major Club Womens 50-Over Tournament, and Major Club T20 Tournament will also be felicitated during the function. Also Read: Live Cricket Score As of now, Lanka Premier League (LPL) is on in the country, even as the Test team will start its preparations for the upcoming two-game World Test Championship (WTC) series against India, starting on August 15 in Galle. Article Source: IANS
Mitchell Marsh, Sam Curran, Joe Root, Phil Salt and Jason Holder are among the biggest overseas names confirmed for the upcoming SA20 season. The six franchises have finalised a significant portion of their squads ahead...
Viv Richards Urges Joseph And Sammy To Resolve Differences, Rebuild Mutual Respect
Legendary West Indies: Legendary West Indies batter Sir Vivian Richards has urged fast bowler Alzarri Joseph and head coach Daren Sammy to resolve their differences and rebuild respect for each other following a public disagreement over the pacer's decision to skip the ongoing Test series against Pakistan. Joseph opted out of the two-match Test series, citing personal reasons, leading Sammy to remark that he had 'declined selection' - a comment the fast bowler later criticised as controversial, without context. West Indies are currently 1-0 up in the series, with the second game still underway at Queen's Park Oval. This sometimes hampers guys professional careers, you know. Such statements, if its not true and stuff like that, a lot of things linger. The two had a great relationship when he was with the St Lucia franchise, so Im not quite so certain why relations have gone a bit south. The relationship, I know, is much bigger than what we hear on the air so it would be of importance to try and rekindle that. We sometimes misstep at times and so long as we have a heart at times, knowing that sometimes the mistakes that we make, we can always put things together and get these guys going again, said Richards to Antigua Observer on Wednesday. This sometimes hampers guys professional careers, you know. Such statements, if its not true and stuff like that, a lot of things linger. The two had a great relationship when he was with the St Lucia franchise, so Im not quite so certain why relations have gone a bit south. Also Read: Live Cricket Score To get the coach saying and to me it looks like he (was saying) he (Alzarri) refused selection, and thats pushing it in my opinion, its pushing it in a very big way. Id like to think that Alzarri would have gone about it in the professional way, and so that at least the statement from coach Sammy wasnt really necessary in my opinion, noted Richards. Article Source: IANS
World Cup 2027 Qualifier set to be played from February 21 to March 23
The venue for the tournament is yet to be finalised
MSG vs WEF: Approaching Milestones and Records Ahead of Match 21, The Hundred Mens 2026
MSGvs WEF,Approaching Milestones and Records :Welsh Fire are very close to making it to the next round of the Hundred Men's 2026. But still, their qualification needs a couple of good wins. Welsh Fire are currently sitting in second spot with 16 points. They have won four of the five matches played so far this season. They are coming off two good chases and are looking in good form. They will be in action on Wednesday against Manchester Super Giants. This contest is scheduled to kick off at 7:30 PM IST at Emirates Old Trafford in Manchester. The Super Giants have slipped to sixth place on the table with 8 points. They will enter this game with some poor form and a losing streak of three matches. Aiden Markram and co. need to break this streak before it gets too late for them. Other teams are surpassing them in the qualification race and only a win here can give them a push. Here, we will talk about big records and milestones which are lined up and can be achieved in the MSGvs WEFMatch 21 at the Emirates Old Trafford in Manchester. MSGvs WEF: Approaching Test Records and Cricket Milestones Ahead of the MSGvs WEFMatch 21 atEmirates Old Trafford in Manchester 65 - Tim Seifert has scored 7935 runs in 334 T20 matches. He is just 65 runs away from completing 8000 runs in T20 cricket. Only three kiwi batters have achieved this feat before him. 22 - Jos Buttler is near to a world record in T20 cricket. He has 14782 runs in 521 matches in the shorter format. He needs 22 more runs to surpass Kieron Pollard and become the leading scorer in this format. Adding to that, Buttler also needs 10 boundaries (fours + sixes) to complete 2000 boundaries in T20s. Only Chris Gayle has achieved this feat so far. 87 - Heinrich Klaasen is 87 runs away from completing 7000 runs in T20 cricket. 58 - All-rounder Matthew Short needs 58 more runs to complete 4500 runs in T20 cricket. He is also one six away from completing 200 T20 sixes. 15 - Phil Salt needs 15 more runs to become the leading scorer in the Hundred Men's competition. Also Read: Live Cricket Score 2 - Sam Cook needs two more wickets to enter the top five wicket-takers in the Hundred Men's competition.
Curious Case Of India Star Who Never Played For Country After 55 In Debut ODI
The competition for a place in the Indian cricket team can be overwhelming for even the best of players.
I would like to play for India in all formats: Smaran
Ravichandran Smaran, the highest run-scorer in the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy season, is focused on maintaining his form and securing a national call-up.
Pakistan Board Warns Players Of Ban Over Participation In 'Unsanctioned Leagues'
In an official statement, the PCB said it had taken serious notice of the participation of certain former Pakistan players in the tournament, which the International Cricket Council (ICC) has classified as an unsanctioned.
'6-fer Against Pakistan Felt Extremely Special, Says WI Spinner Jomel Warrican
But West Indies: West Indies left-arm spinner Jomel Warrican said picking a six-wicket haul against Pakistan in the ongoing game at the Queens Park Ova; as extremely special, adding that stepping up to carry the bowling workload in the absence of injured captain Roston Chase made the performance even more gratifying. With Chase nursing an index finger injury that restricted him to just seven overs, Warrican shouldered the bulk of the bowling duties, by sending down 46 overs. His figures of 6-112 helped West Indies trigger a Pakistani collapse on day three, thus restricting the visitors lead to just 43 runs after they lost eight wickets for 106 runs. I think that's probably the (performance) I'll cherish the most, because the team was down and the skipper was struggling with his finger, and I had to take up the mantle of working hard and bowling all those extra overs to help out the team. In terms of workload and to get rewarded for bowling so many overs, it felt extremely special, Warrican said at the end of day threes play. It was Warrican's third five-wicket haul in Test cricket and first on home soil. I always wanted a five-for at home. That's something that I will cherish, because watching the highlights when it's showing old clips, it's always home series, and I always wanted to be in the dressing room watching an old clip of me getting a five-for, and it happened in this game, so I'm really happy about that, he added. I think that's probably the (performance) I'll cherish the most, because the team was down and the skipper was struggling with his finger, and I had to take up the mantle of working hard and bowling all those extra overs to help out the team. In terms of workload and to get rewarded for bowling so many overs, it felt extremely special, Warrican said at the end of day threes play. Also Read: Live Cricket Score As a team we've got to get close to 150-175 to be comfortable and have a game. So we've got to have a plan on how we're going to get it, and execute it when we get to bat tomorrow. Article Source: IANS
DC And SRH Stars Among Four Spinners Added As India Net Bowlers For Sri Lanka Tests
As per the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Indian batters, who have had their share of struggles against spin at home, have ramped up their preparation against the tweakers in spin-friendly Sri Lankan conditions by adding four spinners to their net bowlers line-up.
Australia pacer suffers calf injury, can return during South Africa series
Australia pacer Michael Neser has sustained a right calf strain during a training session. The blow delayed his preparations for the upcoming South Africa series in October. However, he is expected to recover in time...
Injury Blow For Australia As Neser Ruled Out Of Bangladesh Tests With Calf Strain
Allan Border Medal: Australia's fast-bowling reserves have taken a hit ahead of the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh, with veteran seam-bowling all-rounder Michael Neser ruled out after sustaining a right calf strain during a training session. Neser was training with the national squad in Brisbane as a standby bowler for the series against Bangladesh, with the first game to be played in Darwin on August 13. Australian fast bowler Michael Neser has sustained a strain in his right calf muscle which will prevent him from training or playing for several weeks. Neser has been training with the Australian squad in Brisbane this month as a standby fast bowler for the Test Series against Bangladesh. He will now set his sights on the tour of South Africa laer this year, said Cricket Australia (CA) in a statement on Wednesday. With senior quicks Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood returning from injuries that cut short their Ashes campaign, Neser was in line as the primary backup pacer. For the first game in Darwin, Australia will choose between Cummins, Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland for its fast-bowling make-up, with veteran off-spinner Nathan Lyon offering spin-bowling option. Cameron Green and Beau Webster also provide seam bowling options as all-rounders. Neser enjoyed an impressive Ashes series last summer, taking 15 wickets at an average of 19.93 in three appearances. However, fitness issues have repeatedly troubled him, including a severe hamstring injury during the 2024/25 season and a calf injury while playing county cricket in England. With senior quicks Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood returning from injuries that cut short their Ashes campaign, Neser was in line as the primary backup pacer. For the first game in Darwin, Australia will choose between Cummins, Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland for its fast-bowling make-up, with veteran off-spinner Nathan Lyon offering spin-bowling option. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The Cummins-led Australian squad travels to Darwin on Saturday ahead of the first Test against Bangladesh, after the Allan Border Medal for the 2025/26 season is given at an event in Brisbane on Friday. Article Source: IANS
V V S Laxman To Replace Agarkar As India's Chief Selector?
VVS Laxman is reportedly being considered to replace Ajit Agarkar as the chief selector for the BCCI, whose extended tenure ends next month.
England Skipper Sciver-Brunt To Miss WBBL 12, Confirms Hobart Hurricanes Coach Coleman
T20 World Cup: Reigning WBBL champions Hobart Hurricanes have suffered a major setback ahead of their title defence with England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt set to miss the upcoming season in order to manage her injury workload, confirmed head coach Jude Coleman on Wednesday. Nat played a crucial role in leading the Hurricanes to their maiden WBBL title last season as their marquee international signing. But after managing persistent calf issues throughout the English summer, which forced her to play predominantly as a specialist batter, including in the Womens T20 World Cup, Nat has opted to skip the tournament. We have already heard from Nat Sciver-Brunt that she's not coming back this year at all to the tournament. It's a disappointing loss for us, but we completely understand. She's had a heavy English summer fighting injuries. She'll also have the WPL (Women's Premier League) in January, so it's really her only time to get some time at home with her son and wife, Coleman was quoted as saying by cricket.com.au, on the sidelines of a promotional event. The calf issue had led to Nat missing the series against New Zealand and India before the T20 World Cup began, where England finished as runners-up to eventual winners Australia. Despite missing Nat, Jude stated that the Hurricanes remain focused on retaining core international and domestic players, including England opener Danni Wyatt-Hodge, as they look to defend their crown when the new WBBL season starts on October 29. The calf issue had led to Nat missing the series against New Zealand and India before the T20 World Cup began, where England finished as runners-up to eventual winners Australia. Also Read: Live Cricket Score We'll be trying to do that again this year (and) trying to keep our internationals as consistent as we can. And our key (local) players like Molly (Strano), Heather (Graham) and Nicola (Carey), we'll be trying to keep them together as best we can, she added. Article Source: IANS
Neser suffers calf strain at training, but hopeful for South Africa tour
Ashes hero was not selected in Australia's 13-man squad for the home two-Test series against Bangladesh, which starts next Thursday in Darwin
Selectors Felt 'Betrayed' Over BCCI's Rohit Sharma Stand, Cracks Emerge: Report
Veteran batter Rohit Sharma left everyone stunned with his century against England in the third and final ODI of the three-match series last month.
'Must Ask The Reason': BCCI Urged To Question Gautam Gambhir Over Kuldeep Yadav Exclusion
India went on to lose the series 2-1, once again putting pressure on Gautam Gambhir and Co.
India call up spin quartet to nets ahead of Sri Lanka Tests
Team India has brought in four young Indian spinners - Harsh Dubey, Shivang Kumar, Tanush Kotian, and Vipraj Nigam - to assist in net practice ahead of their two-Test series against Sri Lanka, despite already having four spinners in their main squad.
No Warm-up Games Ahead Of India Tour In 2027: Andrew McDonald
World Test Championship: Head coach Andrew McDonald has revealed that Australia have decided against playing a warm-up match ahead of their 2027 Border-Gavaskar Trophy tour of India, adding that their focus will be on a dedicated pre-series training camp to prepare for turning conditions. The five-match Test series will start on January 21 in Nagpur and end on March 3 in Ahmedabad. It will mark Australia's longest tour of India in 50 years. With the marquee series commencing less than two weeks after the conclusion of their home Test series against New Zealand, Australia face a tight preparation timeline. Australia previously used a similar method head of the 2023 tour of India by having a camp in Alur on the outskirts of Bengaluru, as well as traveling to Dubai prior to their two-Test tour of Sri Lanka. In Alur, they got local Indian bowlers like Baroda off-spinner Mahesh Pithiya to replicate the angle of former off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin. We feel as though we've got enough time to immerse ourselves in those conditions. We won't be taking on a practice game. It'll just be more around the location. We've got a couple of options there. We have gone to the UAE previously and we have also gone into India last time into Bangalore, so we're just working through what that would look like in terms of how we then manage the individuals. A lot of that would happen on the back of the four Tests against New Zealand, seeing where players are at. We'll potentially have some different players with different skill sets that we believe can perform in India, so it won't necessarily be the squad that finishes the Test series (against NZ that then heads to India). There'll be some players that we need to put a little bit more prep into, and that'll start in Australia also, balancing out Big Bash commitments and things like that. Ultimately, if you can have a dedicated venue that you're able to use and replicate as close to the conditions that you believe you may get in the first Test match or throughout a Test series, that's ideally what you want. You case those locations you want a connection in terms of conditions and climate. We believe we'll get that right in terms of where we go, it just hasn't been confirmed yet, McDonald told cricket.com.au on Wednesday. Test fringe players like Matthew Kuhnemann, Todd Murphy, Cooper Connolly, Peter Handscomb, and Matthew Renshaw are among those in consideration for the tour as Australia seek their first Test series victory on Indian soil since 2004. While Australia are not playing tour games in India, McDonald confirmed they plan to play warm-up fixtures ahead of their three-game Test series in South Africa and the 2027 Ashes in England, provided they do not qualify for the World Test Championship final. We don't always take the opportunity to play warm-up games or first-class games on the entry, and that's probably because we haven't traditionally had the space and time, and also we've had an experienced group. Some players are going to be coming out of IPL, some players are going to be coming out of April, May in Australia preparing back here, some might be in county cricket, so we're going to have players at all different stages of prep. We don't always take the opportunity to play warm-up games or first-class games on the entry, and that's probably because we haven't traditionally had the space and time, and also we've had an experienced group. Also Read: Live Cricket Score We're not against practice games as long as they can fit in. That's always the hard part with a schedule that that does get compressed. We feel like a game on a Test venue against a quality opponent potentially is the best thing for that (UK) tour, he added. Article Source: IANS
Inglis To Be Available For First Test Against Bangladesh Despite Back Spasm: McDonald
Allan Border Field: Australia wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis will be available for selection for next week's first Test against Bangladesh in Darwin, confirmed head coach Andrew McDonald, despite concerns over him picking a back spasm during an intra-squad match. Inglis experienced a flare-up in the back during Australia's preparatory game at the Allan Border Field in Brisbane this week. But McDonald reassured that the setback remains minor and will not affect his availability for the upcoming game starting on August 13 at the Marrara Stadium. He's had a back flare up. He has had these from time to time. There'll be no issue, it'll just be letting it settle down and then getting him back into work. We've got enough time. We'll probably be conservative on that, make sure that's right before you see him return into the nets and the preparation phase there is no concern around whether he would be available or not, McDonald told cricket.com.au on Wednesday. The match simulation saw key performers get valuable game time, with Cameron Green spending significant time at the crease, while spinner Nathan Lyon continued his comeback from hamstring surgery by dismissing Travis Head. Opening batter Jake Weatherald also hit a brisk 40 before retiring, as he signalled his intentions to partner Head at the top of the order against Bangladesh. McDonald noted that the match simulations formed the centerpiece of a month-long training block designed to get the squad ready after travelling between home bases and Brisbane. The match simulation saw key performers get valuable game time, with Cameron Green spending significant time at the crease, while spinner Nathan Lyon continued his comeback from hamstring surgery by dismissing Travis Head. Also Read: Live Cricket Score It's a group that's keen to get back into it and we've got a couple more days on Thursday and Friday to finish off that preparation. The guys have been doing a lot of work coming back and forth to Brisbane, he added. Article Source: IANS
Starc On Verge Of Surpassing Dev, Steyn During Bangladesh Tests
World Test Championship: Veteran Australia fast bowler Mitchell Starc is on the verge of surpassing fast-bowling legends Kapil Dev and Dale Steyn on the all-time Test wicket-takers list as Australia prepare for a two-match World Test Championship series against Bangladesh, starting on August 13 in Darwin. Left-arm pacer Starc, 36, currently has 433 Test scalps to his name. A solid performance against Bangladesh could see him eclipse former India captain Dev (434) and South African great Steyn (439) and break into the top 10 wicket-takers in mens Test history. However, Starc insisted individual milestones remain secondary as Australia aim to secure points for next year's World Test Championship final at The Oval. It means I've played a bit. It is cool and very humbling to be spoken about it with those guys. But that stuff doesn't mean a whole lot while you're still playing. You don't get too far ahead, Starc was quoted as saying by the ICC on Wednesday Australia currently lead the WTC standings, as the Bangladesh series kicks off a demanding seven-month Test schedule that includes away matches against South Africa, followed by series against New Zealand and India. However, Starc insisted individual milestones remain secondary as Australia aim to secure points for next year's World Test Championship final at The Oval. It means I've played a bit. It is cool and very humbling to be spoken about it with those guys. But that stuff doesn't mean a whole lot while you're still playing. You don't get too far ahead, Starc was quoted as saying by the ICC on Wednesday Also Read: Live Cricket Score When you're 36 and you've been around for 16 years, you'd like to think you've improved or got better at something. You're also around that long because you're able to develop and learn and improve. And you add in a few things like the wobble seam, consistency and other things. I have a pretty clear mindset on it all, he added. Article Source: IANS
Dubey, Kotian, Nigam, Shivang Join India Squad As Net Bowlers Ahead Of First SL Test
Nondescripts Cricket Club: Spin-bowling all-rounders Harsh Dubey, Tanush Kotian, and Vipraj Nigam, along with left-arm wrist-spinner Shivang Kumar, have joined the Indian team as net bowlers to assist the team in preparations ahead of the opening Test against Sri Lanka, starting on August 15 in Galle. Harsh Dubey, Shivang Kumar, Tanush Kotian and Vipraj Nigam have joined the Indian squad as net bowlers to assist the team in the build up to the first Test against Sri Lanka, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) said in an official update on Wednesday, after the Shubman Gill-led side began its first practice sessions at the Nondescripts Cricket Club (NCC) Ground. While the quartet is unlikely to feature in the main squad or playing eleven unless forced by exceptional circumstances, the stint serves as a major development area for them. Left-arm spin bowling all-rounder Dubey, who turns out for Vidarbha in domestic cricket, made his ODI debut against Afghanistan earlier this year and was in the squad for one-off Test against Afghanistan, third 50-over game against England and T20I series in Zimbabwe. Meanwhile, Mumbais off-spinner Kotian has been a consistent performer in domestic cricket over the last two seasons and was even in the India squad for the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy series as a replacement for Ravichandran Ashwin, who announced his retirement from international cricket after the third game in Brisbane. While the quartet is unlikely to feature in the main squad or playing eleven unless forced by exceptional circumstances, the stint serves as a major development area for them. Left-arm spin bowling all-rounder Dubey, who turns out for Vidarbha in domestic cricket, made his ODI debut against Afghanistan earlier this year and was in the squad for one-off Test against Afghanistan, third 50-over game against England and T20I series in Zimbabwe. Also Read: Live Cricket Score After featuring in a three-day practice match at the NCC in Colombo from August 7-9, the Indian team will travel to Galle where the first Test will be played at the Galle International Stadium starting on August 15. It is followed by the second Test to be played at the Sinhalese Sports Club from August 23-27. Article Source: IANS
No Practice Games! Australia's Bold Plan For India Tests Next Year
Australia's head coach Andrew McDonald has announced that the team will forgo traditional practice matches before their upcoming Border Gavaskar Trophy Test series in India, opting instead for a short preparatory camp in sub-continental conditions. This strategic decision aims to better acclimatise players for the challenging Indian pitches.
Vlaeminck and Brown to tour India with Australia A
Injury-prone speedster will finally play for Australia A having not played any international or domestic cricket since injuring her shoulder in 2024
Warrican cherishes 'extremely special' six-for after 46 overs of toil
With a finger injury limiting Roston Chase's role with the ball, Warrican sent down 40% of the overs in Pakistan's first innings
Brett Lee Finally Speaks Out On Speculation About Dating Preity Zinta
Legendary Australian cricketer Brett Lee has finally opened up on age-old rumours linking his name with Bollywood actress Preity Zinta.
Australia Coach Rules Out Practice Games Before Next Year's India Tests
During their 2023 tour of India, the Aussies had held a camp in Alur near Bengaluru to prepare for the series.
Long Before IPL, The Forgotten Story Of Virat Kohli's T20 Debut
Virat Kohli made his domestic T20 debut for Delhi at 18 in an experimental BCCI tournament, scoring 35 off 26 balls on a challenging pitch that barely had a spectator.
Mohammad Amir Becomes British Citizen, Says This On IPL 2027 Participation
Mohmmad Amir, who initially entered The Hundred draft as an overseas player, is now representing Trent Rockets as a domestic player in the UK-based competition.
Pakistan players in trouble, could face ban for featuring in unauthorised league
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has warned of disciplinary action against former cricketers who participated in the Asian Legends League in Zambia without obtaining the required approvals. In a statement issued after the competition began, the...
DPL 2026: West Delhi Lions Cruise To 5-wicket Win Over South Delhi Superstarz
West Delhi Lions: West Delhi Lions registered a convincing five-wicket victory over South Delhi Superstarz in the Delhi Premier League (DPL) 2026 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. The Lions produced an excellent all-round performance, first bowling South Delhi Superstarz out for 160 in 19.5 overs before comfortably chasing down the target. South Delhi Superstarz never managed to build any significant partnerships as they kept losing wickets at regular intervals. The batting line-up struggled to find momentum, with the Lions' bowlers maintaining tight lines throughout the innings. A late counterattack from Vision Panchal gave the Superstarz something to fight for. He played a quick cameo of 24 off just 12 balls, helping his side reach the 160-run mark. Mayank Gusain was the standout performer with the ball, producing a sensational spell of 3/13 in his four overs. Nitish Rana also made an impact with figures of 1/30, while experienced pacer Kulwant Khejroliya chipped in with two wickets for 31 runs in his four-over spell. Chasing 161, West Delhi Lions also had a shaky start as they slipped to 26/2 inside the powerplay. However, Nitish Rana and Krish Yadav steadied the innings with a valuable 58-run partnership for the third wicket. Rana led from the front with a composed 32 off 25 balls before being dismissed. Although the Lions lost a few more wickets in the middle overs, they remained in control of the chase. Chasing 161, West Delhi Lions also had a shaky start as they slipped to 26/2 inside the powerplay. However, Nitish Rana and Krish Yadav steadied the innings with a valuable 58-run partnership for the third wicket. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Gusain guided West Delhi Lions home with ease as they completed the chase with five wickets in hand. Article Source: IANS
Zaheer Khan Acquires Jaffna Kings In Sri Lanka's T20 League
Indian pace legend Zaheer Khan, through his co-owned Stockholm-based Anchor Sports AB, has acquired the Lanka Premier League (LPL) franchise Jaffna Kings, which will now be rebranded as Anchor Jaffna Kings.
Watch: Babar Azam In Disbelief After Cruel Run Out Robs Him Of Century Against West Indies
Hoping to score his first Test century in nearly 4 years, Babar Azam was run out for a score of 88 against West Indies on Day 3 of the second Test in Trinidad.
Ben Stokes Rules Out England Return, Reveals Dream of Coaching National Team
Ben Stokes has revealed his ambition to coach England in the future, but ruled out any chance of ending his shock retirement from international cricket. Stokes quit as England Test captain and retired from the international stage after a 2-1 Test series defeat by New Zealand in June. The all-rounder had been dropped for the second Test against New Zealand after he and team-mate Gus Atkinson broke a team curfew in a nightclub incident following the opening match of the series. Stokes said his turbulent four-year reign as captain had left him exhausted. He famously reversed his one-day international retirement to play in the 2023 World Cup and England managing director of men's cricket Rob Key last week said he wouldn't be surprised if Stokes were to return to Test action. But Stokes, 35, said he is definitely not coming back to the Test arena while speaking on the 'For the Love of Cricket' podcast. I'm doing my level three coaching now while I'm still playing, because when the day comes that I'm not playing anymore, I'd love to be able to have all that stuff signed off and done, Stokes said. On his coaching plan, Stokes added: I know what I want to do in terms of staying within the game, which is to be a coach. And would I love to be coach of England one day? Absolutely. I just really like the idea of being in some form of leadership away from playing. Joe Root has been reappointed as England's Test skipper after Stokes' exit, with Harry Brook -- who has served as vice-captain -- overlooked for a promotion. Brook was given Stokes' endorsement but the white-ball captain's nightclub incident in New Zealand, hours before leading England in an ODI, continues to cast a large shadow over him. Stokes remains surprised that Brook was passed over, saying: If you think someone's going to be a good captain or a good leader, then just give them it. Even when I missed that Test match, I was like, 'Why is Brooky (not the captain?) - he's vice-captain'. And I sort of got it. I understood the reasoning why they were saying it. But I was still like 'what message is that sending to him?' He's vice captain. And then the captain is not playing, but he's not captain. What? Also Read: Live Cricket Score I had no leadership or captaincy experience when I took over.
Ajit Agarkar can be removed as BCCI's chief selector after Rohit Sharma saga: Report
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Pakistan Spinners Dominate as West Indies Collapse, Series-Leveling Test Win Beckons
Pakistan's spinners put their team on course for a series-levelling victory as the West Indies stumbled to 103 for six -- a lead of just 60 runs - on an eventful third day of the second and final Test in Trinidad on Tuesday. Abdullah Shafique's unbeaten 160 ensured the visitors did not completely squander an excellent overnight platform in eventually getting to a first-innings total of 387. SCORECARD Sajid Khan then made his second meaningful contribution of the day in taking four second-innings wickets, while Ali Usman claimed two, including home captain Roston Chase caught-and-bowled off the final ball of the day. First-innings top-scorer Justin Greaves will carry the fight for the West Indies into the fourth morning with uncertainty over the availability to bat of regular opener Brandon King. On a deteriorating pitch offering sharp turn and variable bounce, West Indies left-arm spinner Jomel Warrican was as much in his element as 18 months earlier against these same opponents in Multan. Here, his haul of six for 112, including three wickets in four balls to wrap up the Pakistan innings on the stroke of tea, would have been a portent of things to come. Yet having started the day in the comfortable position of 266 for two and within sight of the West Indies first-innings total of 344, it took an error of judgement from Pakistan captain Babar Azam to trigger a gradual slide as the visitors' last eight wickets fell for 106 runs. Having put the West Indies bowlers to the sword with delightful, confident strokeplay on the second afternoon, Babar was a picture of strokeless paralysis at the start of the day, as if the prospect of a first Test century in almost four years had gotten the better of him. He managed to eke out a couple of runs to add to his overnight 86 before taking off for a non-existent single and, sent back by Shafique, dived desperately but in vain as the direct hit at the striker's end by King from point found Babar short of his ground. West Indian delight at Babar's dismissal was transformed to concern over the welfare of King, who remained prone on the outfield after effecting the dismissal. After several minutes of assessment of his situation he was stretchered off with what was later diagnosed to be back spasms. That unexpected breakthrough triggered a mini-slide as three wickets fell for five runs, fast bowler Shamar Joseph and Warrican claiming a wicket each. Khan offered a measure of stability with Shafique, the pair putting on 59 for the seventh wicket before another pacer, Jayden Seales, removed the lower-order batsman for 30. With the door open to a vulnerable tail, Warrican wasted no time in wrapping up the innings, taking three wickets in four balls with Shafique stranded at the non-striker's end and leaving Pakistan to rue opportunities missed to earn a much more significant lead. - 'Excellent' Warrican - Shafique's innings occupied more than seven-and-half hours during which he faced 323 deliveries, striking 15 fours and three sixes. Jomel was really excellent for us today, staying at the stumps and finishing off the innings well, said West Indies bowling coach Ravi Rampaul. At this stage though, and given the way the pitch is playing, if we can somehow push the lead to 150 we would have a chance. Khan was at his most rampant in the final session, accounting for Tagenarine Chanderpaul and Amir Jangoo swiftly before adding Shai Hope and nightwatchman Seales to his list of victims. Chase surveyed the carnage from the other end only to succumb to the constant pressure himself, the reaction of the home skipper to his demise almost a mirror of Babar's disconsolate trek to the pavilion more than seven hours earlier. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Usman also posed a constant threat, the left-arm spinner having earlier removed Kavem Hodge, whose 34 is the top score so far in an innings in danger of going into complete freefall.
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