10 days ago
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) introduced central contracts in 2000 as a way to give them more control over their best players.
Last week, the ECB issued 39 central contracts to men's players for the 2026-27 season. Of them, 30 were full central contracts; the other nine were development contracts.
For the 2025-26 term, the ECB announced their women's central contracts at the end of November. Then, 17 players were on full contracts and four players were on 'skills' deals, akin to the men's development contracts.
Should a player receive an ECB central contract, the ECB effectively becomes their primary employer ahead of the county side that they also represent.
It is expected that the ECB will pay most or all of a centrally contracted player's salary, although that will be decided on a case-by-case basis.
#contracts #central #england #Cricket
Last week, the ECB issued 39 central contracts to men's players for the 2026-27 season. Of them, 30 were full central contracts; the other nine were development contracts.
For the 2025-26 term, the ECB announced their women's central contracts at the end of November. Then, 17 players were on full contracts and four players were on 'skills' deals, akin to the men's development contracts.
Should a player receive an ECB central contract, the ECB effectively becomes their primary employer ahead of the county side that they also represent.
It is expected that the ECB will pay most or all of a centrally contracted player's salary, although that will be decided on a case-by-case basis.
#contracts #central #england #Cricket
10 days ago
Cricket fans get a full day to savour. Oman face Nepal at Al Amerat, South Africa and Australia begin Day 2 of their Test in Gqeberha, and Afghanistan meet Zimbabwe in Abu Dhabi. We will see how it unfolds. - all of which you can follow with our partners at Dafabet.
And even better, Dafabet now have the expert take of Kevin Pietersen to take their cricket coverage to the next level after he was announced this week as their new Global Ambassador!
🌟 Delighted to announce that I’m joining the Dafabet family as their Global Brand Ambassador! 🌟 Looking forward to some exciting collaborations, exclusive behind-the-scenes moments, and plenty more to come. Stay tuned! #Dafabet #BrandAmbassador #KP https://t.co/NnsY4fupAw
We're excited to see what that partnership has in store, but in the meantime you can keep up with all the latest cricket matches and schedule below. Good luck!
Match
#ambassador
And even better, Dafabet now have the expert take of Kevin Pietersen to take their cricket coverage to the next level after he was announced this week as their new Global Ambassador!
🌟 Delighted to announce that I’m joining the Dafabet family as their Global Brand Ambassador! 🌟 Looking forward to some exciting collaborations, exclusive behind-the-scenes moments, and plenty more to come. Stay tuned! #Dafabet #BrandAmbassador #KP https://t.co/NnsY4fupAw
We're excited to see what that partnership has in store, but in the meantime you can keep up with all the latest cricket matches and schedule below. Good luck!
Match
#ambassador
10 days ago
The Pakistan ODI Tri-Series 2026 brings together the hosts, England and Sri Lanka for a 50-over tournament that runs from October 18 to October 31.
All seven matches will be played at two venues, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium and the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, with six league fixtures leading into a final between the top two sides.
The competition starts in Rawalpindi on October 18, when Pakistan take on Sri Lanka.
Pakistan's 16-member squad began its preparation at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Thursday.
Captain Shaheen Shah Afridi led the group through a three-hour session from 4 pm to 7 pm, held under head coach Mike Hesson and a support staff that includes batting coach Mike Smith, bowling coach Shaun Tait and fielding coach Mansoor Amjad.
#october #Pakistan #lanka #england
All seven matches will be played at two venues, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium and the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, with six league fixtures leading into a final between the top two sides.
The competition starts in Rawalpindi on October 18, when Pakistan take on Sri Lanka.
Pakistan's 16-member squad began its preparation at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Thursday.
Captain Shaheen Shah Afridi led the group through a three-hour session from 4 pm to 7 pm, held under head coach Mike Hesson and a support staff that includes batting coach Mike Smith, bowling coach Shaun Tait and fielding coach Mansoor Amjad.
#october #Pakistan #lanka #england
10 days ago
When was the last time England won an ODI series in the subcontinent? originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
England last won an ODI series in the subcontinent in January 2026, when they beat Sri Lanka 2-1 in Sri Lanka.
England have won 10 of 28 ODI series in India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, with eight of their 14 defeats coming in India.
England face Pakistan in Rawalpindi on October 20 in their first ODI series in Pakistan since 2005.
England open their ODI tri-series campaign against Pakistan in Rawalpindi on October 20, their first ODI series in Pakistan since 2005. The tournament also features Sri Lanka and gives all three teams a block of 50-over cricket ahead of the 2027 World Cup.
#lanka #India #subcontinent
England last won an ODI series in the subcontinent in January 2026, when they beat Sri Lanka 2-1 in Sri Lanka.
England have won 10 of 28 ODI series in India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, with eight of their 14 defeats coming in India.
England face Pakistan in Rawalpindi on October 20 in their first ODI series in Pakistan since 2005.
England open their ODI tri-series campaign against Pakistan in Rawalpindi on October 20, their first ODI series in Pakistan since 2005. The tournament also features Sri Lanka and gives all three teams a block of 50-over cricket ahead of the 2027 World Cup.
#lanka #India #subcontinent
10 days ago
AUS vs SA 2nd Test Day 2 2026 live scorecard, toss winner, winning probability, result and highlights from Gqeberha originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Venue: St George's Park, Gqeberha
Captains: Temba Bavuma (South Africa), Pat **** mins (Australia)
Toss result: Australia won the toss and chose to field first.
Live Telecast: SuperSport Cricket and SABC 3 (South Africa), Fox Sports and Kayo Sports (Australia), Fancode (India)
#australia #test
Venue: St George's Park, Gqeberha
Captains: Temba Bavuma (South Africa), Pat **** mins (Australia)
Toss result: Australia won the toss and chose to field first.
Live Telecast: SuperSport Cricket and SABC 3 (South Africa), Fox Sports and Kayo Sports (Australia), Fancode (India)
#australia #test
10 days ago
Bengaluru: When batters are scoring at 11.46 runs an over, even quality bowling attacks can be made to look ordinary. India's T20I series against the West Indies has exposed the vulnerability of the hosts' pace unit, with flat pitches, dew and short boundaries proving a punishing combination for bowlers.
West Indies' stunning 250-run chase in Ranchi, completed with nine **** to spare, prompted a stern **** sment from India head coach Gautam Gambhir.
"These bowlers are our bowlers, not someone else's bowlers. Their careers are at stake," he had said, underlining the scrutiny facing the attack.
With the exception of Indore, where India successfully defended 223, the bowlers struggled to contain a fearless West Indies batting line-up. While the absence of Jasprit **** rah and, to an extent, Hardik Pandya has been felt, the bigger concern for the team management is the inconsistency shown by Arshdeep Singh, Mayank Yadav and Prince Yadav.
The two young quicks, Mayank and Prince, have alternated between brilliance and waywardness during the series, highlighting the challenges of adjusting to different match situations. The fourth T20I in Hyderabad offered a clear example. India conceded 18 extras, including 13 wides. Arshdeep accounted for six, while Mayank and Prince leaked two and one, respectively. Their attempts to execute wide yorkers and fuller deliveries repeatedly missed the mark, allowing the West Indies batters to maintain the pressure.
India's lack of proven T20 pace-bowling depth has consequently become a talking point. That has put renewed focus on the return of Bhuvneshwar **** ar, whose recall after nearly four years away from the national side could prove timely.
The experienced swing bowler has enjoyed a productive run in the IPL, taking 45 wickets across the last two seasons. More importantly, his success has been built on control and execution rather than sheer pace, qualities that India's younger quicks have often lacked in this series.
Conditions, however, have offered little respite to bowlers. High-scoring surfaces and heavy dew have meant that even small lapses have come at a significant cost.
As India prepare for a demanding tour of New Zealand, they know the challenges ahead will be very different. The pitches may offer more **** istance, but the key question remains whether the bowling group can quickly adapt and improve its consistency.
On the eve of the rain-affected series finale in Bengaluru, fast-bowling coach Morne Morkel urged observers to consider the physical and mental demands placed on modern cricketers.
"We sometimes forget that mental fatigue plays a big part. We have to manage that and be smart with it. Some of the players went for the Asian Games and then straight into a full series against the West Indies. These guys are also human," Morkel said.
"Execution and skills become better when you've recovered, slept well and mentally refreshed. That's a challenge. We're going to N
West Indies' stunning 250-run chase in Ranchi, completed with nine **** to spare, prompted a stern **** sment from India head coach Gautam Gambhir.
"These bowlers are our bowlers, not someone else's bowlers. Their careers are at stake," he had said, underlining the scrutiny facing the attack.
With the exception of Indore, where India successfully defended 223, the bowlers struggled to contain a fearless West Indies batting line-up. While the absence of Jasprit **** rah and, to an extent, Hardik Pandya has been felt, the bigger concern for the team management is the inconsistency shown by Arshdeep Singh, Mayank Yadav and Prince Yadav.
The two young quicks, Mayank and Prince, have alternated between brilliance and waywardness during the series, highlighting the challenges of adjusting to different match situations. The fourth T20I in Hyderabad offered a clear example. India conceded 18 extras, including 13 wides. Arshdeep accounted for six, while Mayank and Prince leaked two and one, respectively. Their attempts to execute wide yorkers and fuller deliveries repeatedly missed the mark, allowing the West Indies batters to maintain the pressure.
India's lack of proven T20 pace-bowling depth has consequently become a talking point. That has put renewed focus on the return of Bhuvneshwar **** ar, whose recall after nearly four years away from the national side could prove timely.
The experienced swing bowler has enjoyed a productive run in the IPL, taking 45 wickets across the last two seasons. More importantly, his success has been built on control and execution rather than sheer pace, qualities that India's younger quicks have often lacked in this series.
Conditions, however, have offered little respite to bowlers. High-scoring surfaces and heavy dew have meant that even small lapses have come at a significant cost.
As India prepare for a demanding tour of New Zealand, they know the challenges ahead will be very different. The pitches may offer more **** istance, but the key question remains whether the bowling group can quickly adapt and improve its consistency.
On the eve of the rain-affected series finale in Bengaluru, fast-bowling coach Morne Morkel urged observers to consider the physical and mental demands placed on modern cricketers.
"We sometimes forget that mental fatigue plays a big part. We have to manage that and be smart with it. Some of the players went for the Asian Games and then straight into a full series against the West Indies. These guys are also human," Morkel said.
"Execution and skills become better when you've recovered, slept well and mentally refreshed. That's a challenge. We're going to N
10 days ago
Bengaluru: For Tilak Varma, the number next to his name on the team sheet matters far less than the one on the scoreboard at the end of the match.
The India T20I vice-captain has seen his role evolve considerably in recent months, moving from the top order to the finisher's role as the team continues to fine-tune its combinations. While adapting to different batting positions is rarely straightforward, the 23-year-old has embraced the challenge and put the team's needs ahead of personal preference.
Having begun his T20I career near the top of the order, Tilak now often finds himself walking in at No. 5 or 6. With Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma opening, Ishan Kishan firmly established at No. 3 and skipper Shreyas Iyer occupying the next slot, opportunities higher up the order have become limited.
Rather than viewing it as a setback, Tilak sees it as another responsibility to master.
"Ishan is batting brilliantly at No. 3. So, for me, there is no option but to bat at 5 and 6 and do the job for the team. I am mentally prepared for that role and in the last few games, I have won matches from there. So, I am pretty confident," Tilak said after the rain-hit series decider against the West Indies in Bengaluru on Saturday.
The left-hander admitted that the transition from a top-order batter to a finisher has not been without its challenges.
"It's not easy to change from No. 3 to No. 5 or 6. It is slightly challenging. But I have been working on how I can finish games, and I love finishing games for the country," he said.
The demands of batting in the lower middle order are vastly different from those of a top-order role. There is little time to settle in, and the emphasis is on making an immediate impact rather than constructing an innings. Tilak said he has consciously altered his preparation to meet those demands.
"I have been working on it in the nets. Otherwise, it becomes tough. When you go in as a finisher and a slower ball comes into your arc, you need to be ready to hit it for six. In T20 cricket, if you bat at No. 5 or 6, you generally get only five or six overs, so I have had to change my approach."
Fortunately for Tilak, batting down the order is not entirely new territory.
"I batted lower down the order in my childhood as well. I have shots all around the ground and I am confident in my ability to adapt. Whether it is No. 3 or No. 5, I believe I have the technique to fit into any role for the team if I prepare well," he said.
#tilak #t20i
The India T20I vice-captain has seen his role evolve considerably in recent months, moving from the top order to the finisher's role as the team continues to fine-tune its combinations. While adapting to different batting positions is rarely straightforward, the 23-year-old has embraced the challenge and put the team's needs ahead of personal preference.
Having begun his T20I career near the top of the order, Tilak now often finds himself walking in at No. 5 or 6. With Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma opening, Ishan Kishan firmly established at No. 3 and skipper Shreyas Iyer occupying the next slot, opportunities higher up the order have become limited.
Rather than viewing it as a setback, Tilak sees it as another responsibility to master.
"Ishan is batting brilliantly at No. 3. So, for me, there is no option but to bat at 5 and 6 and do the job for the team. I am mentally prepared for that role and in the last few games, I have won matches from there. So, I am pretty confident," Tilak said after the rain-hit series decider against the West Indies in Bengaluru on Saturday.
The left-hander admitted that the transition from a top-order batter to a finisher has not been without its challenges.
"It's not easy to change from No. 3 to No. 5 or 6. It is slightly challenging. But I have been working on how I can finish games, and I love finishing games for the country," he said.
The demands of batting in the lower middle order are vastly different from those of a top-order role. There is little time to settle in, and the emphasis is on making an immediate impact rather than constructing an innings. Tilak said he has consciously altered his preparation to meet those demands.
"I have been working on it in the nets. Otherwise, it becomes tough. When you go in as a finisher and a slower ball comes into your arc, you need to be ready to hit it for six. In T20 cricket, if you bat at No. 5 or 6, you generally get only five or six overs, so I have had to change my approach."
Fortunately for Tilak, batting down the order is not entirely new territory.
"I batted lower down the order in my childhood as well. I have shots all around the ground and I am confident in my ability to adapt. Whether it is No. 3 or No. 5, I believe I have the technique to fit into any role for the team if I prepare well," he said.
#tilak #t20i
10 days ago
Babar Azam reached another milestone in his international career on Sunday, becoming the fifth Pakistan batter to score 16,000 international runs during the first ODI of the tri-series against Sri Lanka in Rawalpindi.
Babar entered the match with 15,993 runs and needed seven more to reach the 16,000-run mark. He achieved the feat in the fourth over of the day, having come out to bat after Saim Ayub was dismissed by Dilshan Madushanka. Babar needed just six deliveries to complete the milestone, getting there with a three off Asitha Fernando.
Since making his international debut for Pakistan in 2015, Babar has established himself across formats. The match against Sri Lanka was his 355th in international cricket. However, he fell short of a half-century, getting out for 45 to Pavan Rathnayake off Eshan Malinga.
Before Babar, Inzamam-ul-Haq, Younis Khan, Mohammad Yousuf and Javed Miandad were the four Pakistan batters to cross 16,000 international runs.
Inzamam leads Pakistan's run-scorers in international cricket with 20,541 runs in 495 matches across formats between 1991 and 2007. Younis is next with 17,790 runs, followed by Yousuf, who scored 17,134 runs in 374 matches.
Miandad, who represented Pakistan in Tests and ODIs from 1975 to 1996, finished his career with 16,213 runs in 357 matches.
India's Sachin Tendulkar holds the world record for the most runs in international cricket. He scored 34,357 runs during his career, which spanned from 1989 to 2013.
Virat Kohli is second on the list with 28,527 international runs.
#international #Pakistan #Career #inzamam
Babar entered the match with 15,993 runs and needed seven more to reach the 16,000-run mark. He achieved the feat in the fourth over of the day, having come out to bat after Saim Ayub was dismissed by Dilshan Madushanka. Babar needed just six deliveries to complete the milestone, getting there with a three off Asitha Fernando.
Since making his international debut for Pakistan in 2015, Babar has established himself across formats. The match against Sri Lanka was his 355th in international cricket. However, he fell short of a half-century, getting out for 45 to Pavan Rathnayake off Eshan Malinga.
Before Babar, Inzamam-ul-Haq, Younis Khan, Mohammad Yousuf and Javed Miandad were the four Pakistan batters to cross 16,000 international runs.
Inzamam leads Pakistan's run-scorers in international cricket with 20,541 runs in 495 matches across formats between 1991 and 2007. Younis is next with 17,790 runs, followed by Yousuf, who scored 17,134 runs in 374 matches.
Miandad, who represented Pakistan in Tests and ODIs from 1975 to 1996, finished his career with 16,213 runs in 357 matches.
India's Sachin Tendulkar holds the world record for the most runs in international cricket. He scored 34,357 runs during his career, which spanned from 1989 to 2013.
Virat Kohli is second on the list with 28,527 international runs.
#international #Pakistan #Career #inzamam
10 days ago
Roefs made some good saves and without him, it could've been a cricket score.
Based off that, we are in trouble. I've tried to stay positive, to take the small wins from every defeat and maintain the "glass half-full" stance…but that was ******* .
It could honestly be the worst performance I've seen under Régis Le Bris.
We're in for a long, long season. There's a serious case of the story of Icarus about us at the moment.
Do I think we can turn it around? Possibly.
#long #roefs #based
Based off that, we are in trouble. I've tried to stay positive, to take the small wins from every defeat and maintain the "glass half-full" stance…but that was ******* .
It could honestly be the worst performance I've seen under Régis Le Bris.
We're in for a long, long season. There's a serious case of the story of Icarus about us at the moment.
Do I think we can turn it around? Possibly.
#long #roefs #based
1 month ago
Princess Charlotte has revealed a new sporting passion, and it has a surprisingly strong connection to her royal family history. The 11-year-old princess has been seen showing off her cricket skills in family footage released by the Prince and Princess of Wales, drawing attention to a sport that was once a favorite of her great-grandfather, Prince Philip.
Prince Louis reveals what Princess Charlotte really thinks of his surprising new skill (@ Karwai Tang)
Now cricket is also getting an upgrade at Sandringham, King Charles III's private Norfolk estate, and the location of Anmer Hall, the Prince and Princess of Wales' country home. Plans call for improvements to the estate's cricket ground, creating an intriguing link between Charlotte's newfound enthusiasm, her grandfather's royal estate, and a sporting tradition that stretches back generations.
According to an exclusive report in The Sun, the Sandringham and Dersingham Cricket Club, which has long used the cricket ground on the royal estate, is planning to install an all-weather artificial surface.
A planning application submitted to the Borough Council of King's Lynn and West Norfolk details the £9,000 project, which is designed to extend playing hours and help protect the natural grass during periods of heavy rain or intensive use.
#Cricket #prince #norfolk
Prince Louis reveals what Princess Charlotte really thinks of his surprising new skill (@ Karwai Tang)
Now cricket is also getting an upgrade at Sandringham, King Charles III's private Norfolk estate, and the location of Anmer Hall, the Prince and Princess of Wales' country home. Plans call for improvements to the estate's cricket ground, creating an intriguing link between Charlotte's newfound enthusiasm, her grandfather's royal estate, and a sporting tradition that stretches back generations.
According to an exclusive report in The Sun, the Sandringham and Dersingham Cricket Club, which has long used the cricket ground on the royal estate, is planning to install an all-weather artificial surface.
A planning application submitted to the Borough Council of King's Lynn and West Norfolk details the £9,000 project, which is designed to extend playing hours and help protect the natural grass during periods of heavy rain or intensive use.
#Cricket #prince #norfolk
1 month ago
India will look to seal the three-match T20I series against Afghanistan when the two teams meet in the second match at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Tuesday.
India lead the series 1-0 after a convincing seven-wicket win in the first T20I. Afghanistan will need a much better performance to keep the series alive.
Afghanistan were in trouble early in the first T20I after losing five wickets for 43 runs inside the Power-play. Azmatullah Omarzai and Mohammad Nabi then put the innings back on track with an 83-run partnership.
Omarzai remained unbeaten on 64 off 44 **** as Afghanistan finished with 156/8. However, the total was not enough against India's strong batting line-up.
Arshdeep Singh was India's best bowler, taking 3/9. Jasprit **** rah also made an impact on his return to international cricket by picking up an early wicket. Axar Patel and Varun Chakaravarthy also took wickets as Afghanistan struggled to build momentum.
India made the chase look easy thanks to an explosive innings from Abhishek Sharma.
The left-handed opener smashed 82 off just 32 **** , hitting seven fours and seven sixes. Ishan Kishan also made a useful contribution with 42.
India reached 157/3 in only 13.4 overs to take a 1-0 lead in the series.
Afghanistan's biggest concern will be their top order.
Rahmanullah Gurbaz was dismissed for a duck in the first over of the opening T20I. Afghanistan will need their top-order batters to give the team a stronger start and provide a platform for players such as Omarzai, Nabi and Rashid Khan.
The visitors have several match-winners in their squad, including Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, Mujeeb Ur Rahman and Naveen-ul-Haq.
Captain Ibrahim Zadran, who is leading Afghanistan in his first series as full-time T20I captain, will hope his team can turn its individual talent into a more disciplined performance.
India also have some selection decisions to make despite their comfortable win in the first T20I.
Abhishek's 82 has strengthened his position at the top of the order, while Sanju Samson scored only 10 runs.
Ishan Kishan also scored 42, giving India another option in the batting line-up. Teenage batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi could also be in contention after missing the first T20I.
India will also be without Harshit Rana, who has been ruled out after suffering a rectus femoris strain. Yash Thakur has joined the squad as his replacement.
A win on Tuesday will give India an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. Afghanistan, meanwhile, need a victory to take the series into a decider.
#first #lead #seven #need
India lead the series 1-0 after a convincing seven-wicket win in the first T20I. Afghanistan will need a much better performance to keep the series alive.
Afghanistan were in trouble early in the first T20I after losing five wickets for 43 runs inside the Power-play. Azmatullah Omarzai and Mohammad Nabi then put the innings back on track with an 83-run partnership.
Omarzai remained unbeaten on 64 off 44 **** as Afghanistan finished with 156/8. However, the total was not enough against India's strong batting line-up.
Arshdeep Singh was India's best bowler, taking 3/9. Jasprit **** rah also made an impact on his return to international cricket by picking up an early wicket. Axar Patel and Varun Chakaravarthy also took wickets as Afghanistan struggled to build momentum.
India made the chase look easy thanks to an explosive innings from Abhishek Sharma.
The left-handed opener smashed 82 off just 32 **** , hitting seven fours and seven sixes. Ishan Kishan also made a useful contribution with 42.
India reached 157/3 in only 13.4 overs to take a 1-0 lead in the series.
Afghanistan's biggest concern will be their top order.
Rahmanullah Gurbaz was dismissed for a duck in the first over of the opening T20I. Afghanistan will need their top-order batters to give the team a stronger start and provide a platform for players such as Omarzai, Nabi and Rashid Khan.
The visitors have several match-winners in their squad, including Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, Mujeeb Ur Rahman and Naveen-ul-Haq.
Captain Ibrahim Zadran, who is leading Afghanistan in his first series as full-time T20I captain, will hope his team can turn its individual talent into a more disciplined performance.
India also have some selection decisions to make despite their comfortable win in the first T20I.
Abhishek's 82 has strengthened his position at the top of the order, while Sanju Samson scored only 10 runs.
Ishan Kishan also scored 42, giving India another option in the batting line-up. Teenage batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi could also be in contention after missing the first T20I.
India will also be without Harshit Rana, who has been ruled out after suffering a rectus femoris strain. Yash Thakur has joined the squad as his replacement.
A win on Tuesday will give India an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. Afghanistan, meanwhile, need a victory to take the series into a decider.
#first #lead #seven #need
1 month ago
Former India cricketer Madan Lal reacted after the Indian women's cricket team did not accept the Asia Cup trophy from Asian Cricket Council (ACC) chairman Mohsin Naqvi after winning the ***** le on Sunday.
Harmanpreet Kaur-led India defeated Sri Lanka by 72 runs to win a record-extending eighth Women's Asia Cup ***** le. However, the Indian players did not come out for the post-match presentation ceremony.
Madan, a member of India's 1983 World Cup-winning team, questioned the decision and said India should avoid playing Pakistan if such situations continue.
"Once again same old story. If we are going to behave like this then we should not play Pakistan any trophies. I know its Board decision," Madan said.
The Asia Cup trophy controversy has continued for the second year in a row.
The Indian women's team did not return to the field for the trophy presentation after their ***** le win.
India's decision came a year after the men's team also refused to receive the Asia Cup trophy and medals from Naqvi.
Naqvi is the ACC chairman and also heads the Pakistan Cricket Board. He is also the Interior Minister of Pakistan.
The Indian men's team had won the Asia Cup last year but did not accept the trophy from Naqvi.
India are yet to receive the trophy, which has since been kept at the ACC office.
The Suryakumar Yadav-led Indian team instead celebrated on the presentation dais without the physical trophy.
Unlike the Indian team, the Sri Lankan players accepted their runners-up cheque from Naqvi. Before that, all the Sri Lankan players and support staff received medals from Sri Lanka Cricket interim chief Eran Wikramaratne.
Naqvi left the stadium immediately after presenting the award to Sri Lankan captain Chamari Athapaththu.
#lankan
Harmanpreet Kaur-led India defeated Sri Lanka by 72 runs to win a record-extending eighth Women's Asia Cup ***** le. However, the Indian players did not come out for the post-match presentation ceremony.
Madan, a member of India's 1983 World Cup-winning team, questioned the decision and said India should avoid playing Pakistan if such situations continue.
"Once again same old story. If we are going to behave like this then we should not play Pakistan any trophies. I know its Board decision," Madan said.
The Asia Cup trophy controversy has continued for the second year in a row.
The Indian women's team did not return to the field for the trophy presentation after their ***** le win.
India's decision came a year after the men's team also refused to receive the Asia Cup trophy and medals from Naqvi.
Naqvi is the ACC chairman and also heads the Pakistan Cricket Board. He is also the Interior Minister of Pakistan.
The Indian men's team had won the Asia Cup last year but did not accept the trophy from Naqvi.
India are yet to receive the trophy, which has since been kept at the ACC office.
The Suryakumar Yadav-led Indian team instead celebrated on the presentation dais without the physical trophy.
Unlike the Indian team, the Sri Lankan players accepted their runners-up cheque from Naqvi. Before that, all the Sri Lankan players and support staff received medals from Sri Lanka Cricket interim chief Eran Wikramaratne.
Naqvi left the stadium immediately after presenting the award to Sri Lankan captain Chamari Athapaththu.
#lankan
2 months ago
Is it possible to build hype around a new professional sport franchise if it does not play in its home city?
Those behind the Belfast Wolves, founding members of the European T20 Premier League (ETPL), think 'yes it is' and they have ambitions to attract new audiences to the sport.
Stormont was packed during a summer of international cricket, but the Wolves are so-far playing exclusively on the road. Its owners hope Belfast will host matches next year.
Until it gets its ducks in a row, the franchise's backers are working hard to get the brand known and build a fanbase.
Large crowds enjoyed a summer of international cricket at Stormont [Getty Images]
#sport #summer #Cricket
Those behind the Belfast Wolves, founding members of the European T20 Premier League (ETPL), think 'yes it is' and they have ambitions to attract new audiences to the sport.
Stormont was packed during a summer of international cricket, but the Wolves are so-far playing exclusively on the road. Its owners hope Belfast will host matches next year.
Until it gets its ducks in a row, the franchise's backers are working hard to get the brand known and build a fanbase.
Large crowds enjoyed a summer of international cricket at Stormont [Getty Images]
#sport #summer #Cricket
2 months ago
India and Afghanistan start their three-match T20I series at Arun Jaitley Stadium on Sunday.
Although Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) is hosting the series, the matches are being played in India as part of the arrangement between the two boards.
The series ends on September 17, coinciding with the beginning of the cricket tournament at the 2026 Asian Games in ***** an beginning September 24.
India, with Shreyas Iyer as their captain, would like to start the series off on the right foot against Afghanistan, who would be led by Ibrahim Zadran.
The Men in Blue won the bilateral series against Afghanistan in June when they completed a 3-0 ODI clean sweep.
#t20i #jaitley
Although Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) is hosting the series, the matches are being played in India as part of the arrangement between the two boards.
The series ends on September 17, coinciding with the beginning of the cricket tournament at the 2026 Asian Games in ***** an beginning September 24.
India, with Shreyas Iyer as their captain, would like to start the series off on the right foot against Afghanistan, who would be led by Ibrahim Zadran.
The Men in Blue won the bilateral series against Afghanistan in June when they completed a 3-0 ODI clean sweep.
#t20i #jaitley
2 months ago
One of the biggest and most controversial trades happened this offseason when the L.A. Rams traded for Myles Garrett. The organization entered the season with more expectations than ever, but its campaign began in embarrassing fashion, as the San Francisco 49ers dominated the Rams 27–7 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in Australia.
Jun 2, 2026; Woodland Hills, CA, USA; Los Angeles Rams defensive end Myles Garrett (95) poses with general manager Les Snead (left) and coach Sean McVay at press conference at Rams Practice Facility. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
The fans were disappointed with star pass rusher Myles Garrett, as his performance was really disappointing and he made virtually no impact in his Rams debut.
During a recent episode of "The Odd Couple," Fox Sports Radio host Rob Parker criticized several members of the Rams before turning his attention to the former Cleveland Browns star and saying:
"Myles Garrett was so terrible. He was a zero. He had nothing. Go look in the box score. His name's not even in there. You know why? He didn't do anything. No pressures. No sacks. No tackles. Nothing—not even a half tackle. Nothing. I would have rather had Mrs. Garrett from 'The Facts of Life' than Myles Garrett on my football team last night. That's how bad it was."
#Rams
Jun 2, 2026; Woodland Hills, CA, USA; Los Angeles Rams defensive end Myles Garrett (95) poses with general manager Les Snead (left) and coach Sean McVay at press conference at Rams Practice Facility. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
The fans were disappointed with star pass rusher Myles Garrett, as his performance was really disappointing and he made virtually no impact in his Rams debut.
During a recent episode of "The Odd Couple," Fox Sports Radio host Rob Parker criticized several members of the Rams before turning his attention to the former Cleveland Browns star and saying:
"Myles Garrett was so terrible. He was a zero. He had nothing. Go look in the box score. His name's not even in there. You know why? He didn't do anything. No pressures. No sacks. No tackles. Nothing—not even a half tackle. Nothing. I would have rather had Mrs. Garrett from 'The Facts of Life' than Myles Garrett on my football team last night. That's how bad it was."
#Rams
2 months ago
NEW DELHI: England captain Joe Root went past Indian batting great Sachin Tendulkar's record for most fifties in Test cricket during England's eight-wicket win over Pakistan in the third Test at Edgbaston on Saturday.
Root remained unbeaten on 62 off 69 ****** , hitting nine fours, as England chased down 130 to complete a 3-0 Test series whitewash.
His unbeaten half-century took his tally of Test fifties to 69, moving him past Tendulkar's 68.
West Indies great Shivnarine Chanderpaul is third on the list with 66 fifties, while Allan Border and Rahul Dravid have 63 each. Ricky Ponting has 62.
69* – Joe Root
68 – Sachin Tendulkar
66 – Shivnarine Chanderpaul
63 – Allan Border
#past
Root remained unbeaten on 62 off 69 ****** , hitting nine fours, as England chased down 130 to complete a 3-0 Test series whitewash.
His unbeaten half-century took his tally of Test fifties to 69, moving him past Tendulkar's 68.
West Indies great Shivnarine Chanderpaul is third on the list with 66 fifties, while Allan Border and Rahul Dravid have 63 each. Ricky Ponting has 62.
69* – Joe Root
68 – Sachin Tendulkar
66 – Shivnarine Chanderpaul
63 – Allan Border
#past
2 months ago
NEW DELHI: England completed a 3-0 Test series clean sweep over Pakistan at Edgbaston, but the series produced an unusual statistic.
It was only the eighth three-match Test series in history to finish without a single individual century. It was also only the second such series in England, after the 1888 Ashes.
England's batting was led by Joe Root, who remained unbeaten on 62 in the third Test, while Jordan **** scored an unbeaten 59 as England chased down 130 with eight wickets in hand.
The result gave England their second 3-0 Test series clean sweep over Pakistan, after their success in the 2022/23 series. It was also England's 15th three-match Test series sweep overall.
For Pakistan, it was their 11th Test series defeat by a 3-0 margin.
England's chase got off to a shocking start when Ben Duckett was dismissed for a duck with the first ball. Emilio Gay then fell later in the same over bowled by Mohammad Abbas.
At 2 for 2, Pakistan had a chance to put England under serious pressure.
But Root settled things down. He survived a major scare when Mohammad Ali bowled him for 23, only for the delivery to be called a no-ball.
It was Ali's 17th no-ball of the series.
Root had another lucky escape when, on 38, he edged Abbas between first and second slip. Neither fielder went for the catch.
The England batter made Pakistan pay for the missed opportunities. He went on to complete his 110th score of 50 or more in Test cricket, including 41 centuries.
Jordan **** provided excellent support for Root as the pair took control of the chase.
Cox remained unbeaten on 59 and helped England reach the target in just 25 overs.
Pakistan had shown plenty of fight in the third Test after conceding a massive 320-run first-innings lead. But England's dominance in the first two Tests meant the series was already heavily tilted in their favour.
Had Pakistan shown the same fight earlier in the series, the contest could have been much closer.
England's fast bowlers were the biggest difference between the two sides.
Ollie Robinson led the attack and finished the series with 21 wickets. Jofra Archer, Josh Tongue and Gus Atkinson also played important roles as England's pace attack made the most of helpful conditions.
The batting, however, was less convincing.
No England batter scored a century across the three Tests, making the series only the eighth three-match Test series without an individual hundred and just the second in England after the 1888 Ashes.
Pakistan's biggest positive came from debutant Razaullah, who produced an exciting counter-attack at Edgbaston.
His thrilling 81 off 63 **** gave Pakistan hope and briefly brought the third Test to life.
But it was too late to change the outcome of the series.
Pakistan have now lost 16 of their 21 Tests. Their difficult tour was followed by major changes, with seven players replaced in the squad after the second Test and coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and his **** istant
It was only the eighth three-match Test series in history to finish without a single individual century. It was also only the second such series in England, after the 1888 Ashes.
England's batting was led by Joe Root, who remained unbeaten on 62 in the third Test, while Jordan **** scored an unbeaten 59 as England chased down 130 with eight wickets in hand.
The result gave England their second 3-0 Test series clean sweep over Pakistan, after their success in the 2022/23 series. It was also England's 15th three-match Test series sweep overall.
For Pakistan, it was their 11th Test series defeat by a 3-0 margin.
England's chase got off to a shocking start when Ben Duckett was dismissed for a duck with the first ball. Emilio Gay then fell later in the same over bowled by Mohammad Abbas.
At 2 for 2, Pakistan had a chance to put England under serious pressure.
But Root settled things down. He survived a major scare when Mohammad Ali bowled him for 23, only for the delivery to be called a no-ball.
It was Ali's 17th no-ball of the series.
Root had another lucky escape when, on 38, he edged Abbas between first and second slip. Neither fielder went for the catch.
The England batter made Pakistan pay for the missed opportunities. He went on to complete his 110th score of 50 or more in Test cricket, including 41 centuries.
Jordan **** provided excellent support for Root as the pair took control of the chase.
Cox remained unbeaten on 59 and helped England reach the target in just 25 overs.
Pakistan had shown plenty of fight in the third Test after conceding a massive 320-run first-innings lead. But England's dominance in the first two Tests meant the series was already heavily tilted in their favour.
Had Pakistan shown the same fight earlier in the series, the contest could have been much closer.
England's fast bowlers were the biggest difference between the two sides.
Ollie Robinson led the attack and finished the series with 21 wickets. Jofra Archer, Josh Tongue and Gus Atkinson also played important roles as England's pace attack made the most of helpful conditions.
The batting, however, was less convincing.
No England batter scored a century across the three Tests, making the series only the eighth three-match Test series without an individual hundred and just the second in England after the 1888 Ashes.
Pakistan's biggest positive came from debutant Razaullah, who produced an exciting counter-attack at Edgbaston.
His thrilling 81 off 63 **** gave Pakistan hope and briefly brought the third Test to life.
But it was too late to change the outcome of the series.
Pakistan have now lost 16 of their 21 Tests. Their difficult tour was followed by major changes, with seven players replaced in the squad after the second Test and coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and his **** istant
2 months ago
Joe Root led England to a 3-0 Test series whitewash over Pakistan after scoring an unbeaten 62 in the third Test at Edgbaston. England were chasing 130 for victory but got off to a poor start. Ben Duckett was dismissed by Mohammad Abbas with the first ball of the innings, while opener Emilio Gay also fell later in the same over.
At 2 for 2, Pakistan had a chance to put England under pressure. But Root and Jordan **** remained calm and slowly took control of the chase.
It was the first time England had whitewashed Pakistan in a home Test series.
Root survived a big scare when Mohammad Ali bowled him for 23, only for the delivery to be called a no-ball. It was Ali's 17th no-ball of the series.
Pakistan then missed another opportunity when Root, on 38, edged Abbas between first and second slip. Neither fielder went for the catch.
Root made Pakistan pay for the missed chances. His unbeaten 62 was his 110th Test innings of 50 or more, a tally that includes 41 centuries.
Cox remained unbeaten on 59 as England reached the target in the 25th over with eight wickets in hand.
Pakistan had shown more fight in the third Test after conceding a huge 320-run first-innings deficit.
Root said the difficult chase was useful for England after Pakistan had put them under pressure.
"Fair play to Pakistan, ?they threw some punches last night. They made it very difficult for us and in some ways it's a good thing to go through that," said Root.
"Test cricket is not always going to go your own way but to see us actually be quite clinical with the bat off the back of that was good too. So ?in many ways we're better for it.
"Of course there's things we will want to improve on but we ?came into this ?series with a lot of question marks and a lot of noise around the team and we've walked away 3-0 winners so ?in that respect I'm quite ?pleased."
The series came after a difficult period for England, who had been looking to recover from their defeat to New Zealand following the Ashes loss.
Root's return to the captaincy after Ben Stokes' retirement from international cricket ended with a series whitewash.
Pakistan had one major positive in the third Test. Debutant Razaullah scored an impressive 81 off 63 **** , giving his team hope and bringing energy to the contest at Edgbaston.
England's fast bowlers were once again too strong for Pakistan on helpful surfaces.
Ollie Robinson led the attack and finished the series with 21 wickets to be named England's player of the series.
"I'm a realist, I know it's not always going to be like this," said Robinson, England's player of the series.
"We know there's ?going to be tougher times ahead. We have some tough opposition coming up and we're looking forward to the challenge."
Jofra Archer, Josh Tongue and Gus Atkinson also played important roles in England's dominant series win.
England's batting was less convincing, with no batter managing to score a century in the three Tests.
At 2 for 2, Pakistan had a chance to put England under pressure. But Root and Jordan **** remained calm and slowly took control of the chase.
It was the first time England had whitewashed Pakistan in a home Test series.
Root survived a big scare when Mohammad Ali bowled him for 23, only for the delivery to be called a no-ball. It was Ali's 17th no-ball of the series.
Pakistan then missed another opportunity when Root, on 38, edged Abbas between first and second slip. Neither fielder went for the catch.
Root made Pakistan pay for the missed chances. His unbeaten 62 was his 110th Test innings of 50 or more, a tally that includes 41 centuries.
Cox remained unbeaten on 59 as England reached the target in the 25th over with eight wickets in hand.
Pakistan had shown more fight in the third Test after conceding a huge 320-run first-innings deficit.
Root said the difficult chase was useful for England after Pakistan had put them under pressure.
"Fair play to Pakistan, ?they threw some punches last night. They made it very difficult for us and in some ways it's a good thing to go through that," said Root.
"Test cricket is not always going to go your own way but to see us actually be quite clinical with the bat off the back of that was good too. So ?in many ways we're better for it.
"Of course there's things we will want to improve on but we ?came into this ?series with a lot of question marks and a lot of noise around the team and we've walked away 3-0 winners so ?in that respect I'm quite ?pleased."
The series came after a difficult period for England, who had been looking to recover from their defeat to New Zealand following the Ashes loss.
Root's return to the captaincy after Ben Stokes' retirement from international cricket ended with a series whitewash.
Pakistan had one major positive in the third Test. Debutant Razaullah scored an impressive 81 off 63 **** , giving his team hope and bringing energy to the contest at Edgbaston.
England's fast bowlers were once again too strong for Pakistan on helpful surfaces.
Ollie Robinson led the attack and finished the series with 21 wickets to be named England's player of the series.
"I'm a realist, I know it's not always going to be like this," said Robinson, England's player of the series.
"We know there's ?going to be tougher times ahead. We have some tough opposition coming up and we're looking forward to the challenge."
Jofra Archer, Josh Tongue and Gus Atkinson also played important roles in England's dominant series win.
England's batting was less convincing, with no batter managing to score a century in the three Tests.
2 months ago
NEW DELHI: Social media has found a fun new way to bring the 1980s back, with AI turning modern-day pictures into vintage portraits. The trend has now reached the Indian cricket team, with several players enjoying a hilarious surprise ahead of their T20I series against Afghanistan in Delhi.
Two days before the series, the Indian players gathered at their hotel for a photo session. But before it began, they found a table filled with AI-generated pictures of themselves.
The portraits, featured in a video shared by the BCCI, showed the players in classic 1980s looks, complete with bell-bottom jeans, big sunglasses and retro hairstyles.
India allrounder Axar Patel and Abhishek Sharma picked up the portraits and burst out laughing as they showed them to their teammates. Jasprit ****** rah also joined in the fun.
Sanju Samson, Washington Sundar, Shreyas Iyer, Tilak Varma and Shivam Dube checked out their retro pictures and appeared amused by their new 1980s avatars.
Ishan Kishan, who recently led East Zone to Duleep Trophy glory, fully embraced the retro look. He held up his AI-generated picture, sang and posed for the camera as his teammates enjoyed the moment.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Yash Thakur and Ravi Bishnoi also broke into smiles after seeing their 1980s avatars.
India and Afghanistan will face each other in a three-match T20I series, starting Sunday at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi.
The second and third T20Is will be played on Tuesday and Thursday at the same venue.
#portraits
Two days before the series, the Indian players gathered at their hotel for a photo session. But before it began, they found a table filled with AI-generated pictures of themselves.
The portraits, featured in a video shared by the BCCI, showed the players in classic 1980s looks, complete with bell-bottom jeans, big sunglasses and retro hairstyles.
India allrounder Axar Patel and Abhishek Sharma picked up the portraits and burst out laughing as they showed them to their teammates. Jasprit ****** rah also joined in the fun.
Sanju Samson, Washington Sundar, Shreyas Iyer, Tilak Varma and Shivam Dube checked out their retro pictures and appeared amused by their new 1980s avatars.
Ishan Kishan, who recently led East Zone to Duleep Trophy glory, fully embraced the retro look. He held up his AI-generated picture, sang and posed for the camera as his teammates enjoyed the moment.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Yash Thakur and Ravi Bishnoi also broke into smiles after seeing their 1980s avatars.
India and Afghanistan will face each other in a three-match T20I series, starting Sunday at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi.
The second and third T20Is will be played on Tuesday and Thursday at the same venue.
#portraits
2 months ago
India vs Sri Lanka Women's Asia Cup final: Start time, TV channel and live streaming details for IND-W vs SL-W originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
India will face Sri Lanka in the final of the 2026 Women's Asia Cup on Sunday.
The two sides faced each other in the 2024 finals as well, with Sri Lanka emerging as the winners.
This will be India's sixth consecutive finals since the tournament shifted to the T20 format.
After a thrilling semifinal that saw Sri Lanka W's win their game against Pakistan by the narrowest of margins, the finals of the 2026 Women's Asia Cup are all set for a repeat of 2024. Only this time, it will be Sri Lanka entering the final match as the defending champions.
#asia #source
India will face Sri Lanka in the final of the 2026 Women's Asia Cup on Sunday.
The two sides faced each other in the 2024 finals as well, with Sri Lanka emerging as the winners.
This will be India's sixth consecutive finals since the tournament shifted to the T20 format.
After a thrilling semifinal that saw Sri Lanka W's win their game against Pakistan by the narrowest of margins, the finals of the 2026 Women's Asia Cup are all set for a repeat of 2024. Only this time, it will be Sri Lanka entering the final match as the defending champions.
#asia #source
2 months ago
Sourav Ganguly is widely regarded as one of the most influential captains in Indian cricket history. During his career, "Dada" was known for several memorable moments on and off the field, from making Steve Waugh wait at the toss and celebrating shirtless on the Lord's balcony to clashes with coaches Greg Chappell and John Buchanan, arguments with Shane Warne, and refusing to walk after Graeme Smith claimed a catch.
But former Australia captain Michael Clarke has shared another story that shows a lighter side of Ganguly.
In his book Eleven Gods and a Billion Indians, author Boria Majumdar quotes Clarke recalling an incident involving Ganguly and Ricky Ponting during a toss in India, although Clarke admits he does not remember which match it was.
"One of Clarke's favourite anecdotes goes thus: Ganguly and Ricky Ponting were out at the toss during one of the matches in India — Clarke doesn't specifically remember which one — and Ponting had the coin in hand. Just as he flipped the coin, Ganguly, if Clarke is to be believed, said, 'Head-Tail'.
"'Trust me, mate, that's what Ricky told me,' Clarke says, cracking up. 'Ricky said he couldn't fathom what had happened with Dada having said Head-Tail. [And, apparently it was said at the speed of lightning.] It had taken Ricky a second or two to come to grips with the situation and by that time the coin had come down. Ganguly just picked it up and said to Ricky, "We'll bat" and walked off. India had won the toss and were batting. Ricky did not really know what to do or say and all he did was tell us in the dressing room exactly what happened at the toss," Clarke was quoted as saying in the book.
Clarke is not sure which match the incident took place in.
According to available records, Ganguly won five tosses against Ricky Ponting, and all of those came outside India; twice during the 2003 World Cup and three times in the 2003-04 VB Series. That means Clarke may have mixed up the venue while recalling the story, as Ponting would have been the one calling the toss if the match had been played in India.
Clarke, however, clearly states that he does not remember the exact match in which the incident happened.
#clarke #ponting
But former Australia captain Michael Clarke has shared another story that shows a lighter side of Ganguly.
In his book Eleven Gods and a Billion Indians, author Boria Majumdar quotes Clarke recalling an incident involving Ganguly and Ricky Ponting during a toss in India, although Clarke admits he does not remember which match it was.
"One of Clarke's favourite anecdotes goes thus: Ganguly and Ricky Ponting were out at the toss during one of the matches in India — Clarke doesn't specifically remember which one — and Ponting had the coin in hand. Just as he flipped the coin, Ganguly, if Clarke is to be believed, said, 'Head-Tail'.
"'Trust me, mate, that's what Ricky told me,' Clarke says, cracking up. 'Ricky said he couldn't fathom what had happened with Dada having said Head-Tail. [And, apparently it was said at the speed of lightning.] It had taken Ricky a second or two to come to grips with the situation and by that time the coin had come down. Ganguly just picked it up and said to Ricky, "We'll bat" and walked off. India had won the toss and were batting. Ricky did not really know what to do or say and all he did was tell us in the dressing room exactly what happened at the toss," Clarke was quoted as saying in the book.
Clarke is not sure which match the incident took place in.
According to available records, Ganguly won five tosses against Ricky Ponting, and all of those came outside India; twice during the 2003 World Cup and three times in the 2003-04 VB Series. That means Clarke may have mixed up the venue while recalling the story, as Ponting would have been the one calling the toss if the match had been played in India.
Clarke, however, clearly states that he does not remember the exact match in which the incident happened.
#clarke #ponting
2 months ago
Pakistan great Wasim Akram has expressed frustration over the country's continued struggles in Test cricket, arguing that the lack of quality batting talent emerging through the system has become a major concern.
Speaking to the media in Lahore on Friday, the former fast bowler said Pakistan's home-and-away Test series defeat to Bangladesh should have prompted the authorities to take immediate corrective measures. Instead, he felt little changed after what should have been a warning sign.
Akram pointed towards the Pakistan Super League (PSL), which has been running for a decade, and questioned whether the tournament had produced any significant batting talent for the national team.
"It has been 10 years since the PSL started, but has a single batter been produced by the PSL? Yes we have produced a few bowlers but tell me have we produced any noteworthy batting talent," he questioned.
Akram also highlighted the emergence of a 15-year-old batting talent in neighbouring India, an apparent reference to Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, as an example of the kind of player Pakistan needs to produce.
"I think when we produce a batting talent like the 14-year old then we will see improvement coming through," Akram said.
While he felt Pakistan remained competitive in white-ball cricket, the former pacer was far less optimistic about the team's position in the longer format, describing the state of Test cricket as "bad".
Akram also played down the importance of who takes charge as Pakistan's coach, saying that whether the PCB appoints him or Gary Kirsten, the fundamental challenge would remain because the coach would still be working with the same pool of players.
Rather than repeatedly changing personnel, Akram called for the PCB's domestic structure to be given time to produce results. He believes the system should be allowed to operate for three to four years, with patience and long-term planning essential to any improvement.
Akram admitted that he was just as disappointed as any other Pakistani by the team's recent performances.
"Club cricket needs to be revived if we want improvement in red ball cricket. The PCB should spend 100 million rupees each in Karachi and Lahore, as talent comes from club cricket."
He also called for greater consistency in the national side, pointing out that Pakistan have continued to rotate players without addressing the underlying problems.
He said there should be consistency in the team, but the players remain the same -- they just keep coming and going.
Pakistan's ongoing Test series in England also came under scrutiny, with Akram criticising the team's approach against the home bowlers.
"In England in the ongoing series they didn't move their front foot forward, playing bowlers like Ollie Robinson while standing rooted in the crease. You need to play with courage, but for that, talent is essential."
Akram also offered his ******* sment of Pakistan's fast-bowling resources, arguing that raw pa
Speaking to the media in Lahore on Friday, the former fast bowler said Pakistan's home-and-away Test series defeat to Bangladesh should have prompted the authorities to take immediate corrective measures. Instead, he felt little changed after what should have been a warning sign.
Akram pointed towards the Pakistan Super League (PSL), which has been running for a decade, and questioned whether the tournament had produced any significant batting talent for the national team.
"It has been 10 years since the PSL started, but has a single batter been produced by the PSL? Yes we have produced a few bowlers but tell me have we produced any noteworthy batting talent," he questioned.
Akram also highlighted the emergence of a 15-year-old batting talent in neighbouring India, an apparent reference to Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, as an example of the kind of player Pakistan needs to produce.
"I think when we produce a batting talent like the 14-year old then we will see improvement coming through," Akram said.
While he felt Pakistan remained competitive in white-ball cricket, the former pacer was far less optimistic about the team's position in the longer format, describing the state of Test cricket as "bad".
Akram also played down the importance of who takes charge as Pakistan's coach, saying that whether the PCB appoints him or Gary Kirsten, the fundamental challenge would remain because the coach would still be working with the same pool of players.
Rather than repeatedly changing personnel, Akram called for the PCB's domestic structure to be given time to produce results. He believes the system should be allowed to operate for three to four years, with patience and long-term planning essential to any improvement.
Akram admitted that he was just as disappointed as any other Pakistani by the team's recent performances.
"Club cricket needs to be revived if we want improvement in red ball cricket. The PCB should spend 100 million rupees each in Karachi and Lahore, as talent comes from club cricket."
He also called for greater consistency in the national side, pointing out that Pakistan have continued to rotate players without addressing the underlying problems.
He said there should be consistency in the team, but the players remain the same -- they just keep coming and going.
Pakistan's ongoing Test series in England also came under scrutiny, with Akram criticising the team's approach against the home bowlers.
"In England in the ongoing series they didn't move their front foot forward, playing bowlers like Ollie Robinson while standing rooted in the crease. You need to play with courage, but for that, talent is essential."
Akram also offered his ******* sment of Pakistan's fast-bowling resources, arguing that raw pa
2 months ago
India's next Test **** ignment will take them to New Zealand for a two-match series beginning November 19, and former Kiwi fast bowler Trent Boult believes KL Rahul will be one of the Indian batters worth watching closely.
The two Tests will form part of India's marathon New Zealand tour, which begins on October 22 and features 12 matches across the three formats. With India needing a strong result to remain in contention for the World Test Championship (WTC) final, the spotlight is expected to fall on several key players, including captain Shubman Gill and pace spearhead Jasprit **** rah.
Boult, however, has picked Rahul and his opening partner Yashasvi Jaiswal as the two Indian batters he is particularly looking forward to seeing in action.
"I'm always a big fan of KL Rahul and his style of batsmanship. So he's a big player at the top of the order for the Indian side. And yeah, I believe Jaiswal is there as well. Two classy batters to see bat. So yeah, be interesting to see," Boult said in an interview to PTI.
The timing of the series could make conditions particularly interesting. Unlike India's previous Test tours of New Zealand, which have often taken place in the February-March window, this series will be played in late October and November.
Boult feels the timing could bring colder weather into play, while he is hoping the New Zealand pitches retain some grass and offer **** istance to the home attack.
"It's always an exciting chance when the Indian team comes down to play Test cricket in New Zealand," Boult said.
"The only thing I can see happening is it's going to be late October. I believe, just coming out of winter. So it's going to be quite cold. Hopefully, there's a bit of greenness in the wickets for some of our bowlers. It's going to be a good series, I'm sure," the star former Kiwi pacer added.
Boult also backed the current New Zealand bowling unit to make an impact against India, pointing to the variety available to the team.
Kyle Jamieson, Matt Henry, Nathan Smith and Will O'Rourke bring different qualities to the attack, and Boult believes that gives New Zealand enough options to develop its own identity.
"I think the bowling is very well balanced. It's got bases covered in terms of a good pace, obviously, with Will O'Rourke. Obviously, a bit of swing and a bit of bounce from Kyle Jamieson and Matt Henry with his accuracy.
"So yeah, I think the way me, Tim (Southee) and Wags (Neil Wagner) did it over the years was a unique way in itself. But there's other strengths and other game plans that our younger bowlers can follow," Boult further said.
134121390
#test
The two Tests will form part of India's marathon New Zealand tour, which begins on October 22 and features 12 matches across the three formats. With India needing a strong result to remain in contention for the World Test Championship (WTC) final, the spotlight is expected to fall on several key players, including captain Shubman Gill and pace spearhead Jasprit **** rah.
Boult, however, has picked Rahul and his opening partner Yashasvi Jaiswal as the two Indian batters he is particularly looking forward to seeing in action.
"I'm always a big fan of KL Rahul and his style of batsmanship. So he's a big player at the top of the order for the Indian side. And yeah, I believe Jaiswal is there as well. Two classy batters to see bat. So yeah, be interesting to see," Boult said in an interview to PTI.
The timing of the series could make conditions particularly interesting. Unlike India's previous Test tours of New Zealand, which have often taken place in the February-March window, this series will be played in late October and November.
Boult feels the timing could bring colder weather into play, while he is hoping the New Zealand pitches retain some grass and offer **** istance to the home attack.
"It's always an exciting chance when the Indian team comes down to play Test cricket in New Zealand," Boult said.
"The only thing I can see happening is it's going to be late October. I believe, just coming out of winter. So it's going to be quite cold. Hopefully, there's a bit of greenness in the wickets for some of our bowlers. It's going to be a good series, I'm sure," the star former Kiwi pacer added.
Boult also backed the current New Zealand bowling unit to make an impact against India, pointing to the variety available to the team.
Kyle Jamieson, Matt Henry, Nathan Smith and Will O'Rourke bring different qualities to the attack, and Boult believes that gives New Zealand enough options to develop its own identity.
"I think the bowling is very well balanced. It's got bases covered in terms of a good pace, obviously, with Will O'Rourke. Obviously, a bit of swing and a bit of bounce from Kyle Jamieson and Matt Henry with his accuracy.
"So yeah, I think the way me, Tim (Southee) and Wags (Neil Wagner) did it over the years was a unique way in itself. But there's other strengths and other game plans that our younger bowlers can follow," Boult further said.
134121390
#test
2 months ago
India's search for consistency in T20I cricket will continue with a three-match series against Afghanistan, but the team's batting combination could once again come under scrutiny, particularly with vice-captain Tilak Varma's role yet to appear fully settled.
India, led by Shreyas Iyer, endured a difficult run following their second consecutive T20 World Cup triumph earlier this year. The team lost all six of its T20Is against Ireland and England before finally putting together a 3-0 clean sweep against Zimbabwe.
The Afghanistan series begins on September 13 (Saturday), with India also scheduled to play a historic T20I against ******* an before featuring in the Asian Games 2026.
With several established batters competing for places, former South Africa star AB de Villiers believes India could face a selection headache, particularly when it comes to deciding where Tilak Varma fits into the batting order.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, de Villiers pointed to the number of batting options available to India and questioned how the team would accommodate its vice-captain.
"There will definitely be some selection issues with regard to the batters. Obviously, Shreyas, captain, Ishan Kishan, Samson, Sooryavanshi, and then there are all-rounders, Tilak Varma; I think that's where the balance is quite tricky. Where will he bat?" de Villiers said.
Tilak's recent numbers also underline why his position could become a talking point.
Since the 2026 T20 World Cup, the left-hander has scored 255 runs from 10 innings at a strike rate of 159.36, with three scores of 50 or more. However, the numbers need some context. One of those half-centuries came during the recent Zimbabwe series, while another was scored in the fifth T20I against England, by which point India had already conceded the series.
His overall returns therefore look stronger in isolation than his performances across the entire period suggest. Tilak endured a particularly difficult run during India's tour of the UK, and his inconsistency has remained a concern despite the occasional big score. That makes his position in India's batting order an even bigger talking point ahead of the Afghanistan series.
The presence of Shreyas Iyer, Ishan Kishan, Sanju Samson, Abhishek Sharma and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi gives India several batting options, while the team also has to factor in its all-rounders.
For de Villiers, the challenge is not simply about selecting the strongest players but finding a combination in which every batter has a clearly defined role.
He believes India have enough quality in their squad to deal with Afghanistan, but stressed that clarity will be particularly important against a side he considers dangerous.
"Really, really strong squad, but the balance will be tricky to figure out. It is T20 cricket, so they can play around with the squad a little bit. There are different roles, but the role clarification will still be incredibly important for India, as
India, led by Shreyas Iyer, endured a difficult run following their second consecutive T20 World Cup triumph earlier this year. The team lost all six of its T20Is against Ireland and England before finally putting together a 3-0 clean sweep against Zimbabwe.
The Afghanistan series begins on September 13 (Saturday), with India also scheduled to play a historic T20I against ******* an before featuring in the Asian Games 2026.
With several established batters competing for places, former South Africa star AB de Villiers believes India could face a selection headache, particularly when it comes to deciding where Tilak Varma fits into the batting order.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, de Villiers pointed to the number of batting options available to India and questioned how the team would accommodate its vice-captain.
"There will definitely be some selection issues with regard to the batters. Obviously, Shreyas, captain, Ishan Kishan, Samson, Sooryavanshi, and then there are all-rounders, Tilak Varma; I think that's where the balance is quite tricky. Where will he bat?" de Villiers said.
Tilak's recent numbers also underline why his position could become a talking point.
Since the 2026 T20 World Cup, the left-hander has scored 255 runs from 10 innings at a strike rate of 159.36, with three scores of 50 or more. However, the numbers need some context. One of those half-centuries came during the recent Zimbabwe series, while another was scored in the fifth T20I against England, by which point India had already conceded the series.
His overall returns therefore look stronger in isolation than his performances across the entire period suggest. Tilak endured a particularly difficult run during India's tour of the UK, and his inconsistency has remained a concern despite the occasional big score. That makes his position in India's batting order an even bigger talking point ahead of the Afghanistan series.
The presence of Shreyas Iyer, Ishan Kishan, Sanju Samson, Abhishek Sharma and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi gives India several batting options, while the team also has to factor in its all-rounders.
For de Villiers, the challenge is not simply about selecting the strongest players but finding a combination in which every batter has a clearly defined role.
He believes India have enough quality in their squad to deal with Afghanistan, but stressed that clarity will be particularly important against a side he considers dangerous.
"Really, really strong squad, but the balance will be tricky to figure out. It is T20 cricket, so they can play around with the squad a little bit. There are different roles, but the role clarification will still be incredibly important for India, as
2 months ago
'They've unearthed a gem': Michael Vaughan reacts to Razaullah's sensational 'Razball' blitz on Pakistan debut vs England originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Razaullah Khan's explosive 81 off 63 ****** , including nine sixes, helped Pakistan post 449 in their second innings at Edgbaston.
Pakistan, who had conceded a 320-run lead, forced England to return on Day 4 needing 130 runs to complete a series sweep.
Michael Vaughan praised Razaullah as a future star while criticising England's tactics that allowed Pakistan's extraordinary lower-order fightback.
Razaullah Khan showed grit and class to salvage some pride for a beleaguered Pakistan side who were bowled out for 133 in their first innings and stared down a 320-run deficit at Edgbaston.
#edgbaston
Razaullah Khan's explosive 81 off 63 ****** , including nine sixes, helped Pakistan post 449 in their second innings at Edgbaston.
Pakistan, who had conceded a 320-run lead, forced England to return on Day 4 needing 130 runs to complete a series sweep.
Michael Vaughan praised Razaullah as a future star while criticising England's tactics that allowed Pakistan's extraordinary lower-order fightback.
Razaullah Khan showed grit and class to salvage some pride for a beleaguered Pakistan side who were bowled out for 133 in their first innings and stared down a 320-run deficit at Edgbaston.
#edgbaston
2 months ago
'His time will come': Ajinkya Rahane wants India to drop Vaibhav Sooryavanshi to play Sanju Samson in Afghanistan T20Is originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Ajinkya Rahane wants India to reinstate the T20 World Cup top three of Sanju Samson, Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan for the Afghanistan series.
Rahane believes Vaibhav Sooryavanshi should play his natural game without overthinking, given how early this stage of his international career is.
Samson won the T20 World Cup Player of the Tournament but has struggled for consistency in the UK series since that triumph.
Ajinkya Rahane has thrown his weight firmly behind Sanju Samson, and urged the Indian team management to reinstate the wicketkeeper-batter in the top three for the Afghanistan T20I series ahead of teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.
#rahane #samson #ajinkya
Ajinkya Rahane wants India to reinstate the T20 World Cup top three of Sanju Samson, Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan for the Afghanistan series.
Rahane believes Vaibhav Sooryavanshi should play his natural game without overthinking, given how early this stage of his international career is.
Samson won the T20 World Cup Player of the Tournament but has struggled for consistency in the UK series since that triumph.
Ajinkya Rahane has thrown his weight firmly behind Sanju Samson, and urged the Indian team management to reinstate the wicketkeeper-batter in the top three for the Afghanistan T20I series ahead of teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.
#rahane #samson #ajinkya
2 months ago
NEW DELHI: Former India cricketer Ajinkya Rahane believes Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's time will come, but feels India should currently stick with the top-three combination that delivered the 2026 T20 World Cup ******* le, backing Sanju Samson to reclaim his place alongside Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan for the upcoming T20I series against Afghanistan.
Samson, who was named Player of the Tournament during India's triumphant T20 World Cup campaign, was dropped after a string of low scores on the tour of England. Sooryavanshi was subsequently handed his international debut in Manchester and also opened during the T20Is against Zimbabwe.
With Samson now recalled for the three-match home series against Afghanistan, beginning at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Sunday, Rahane believes the experienced batter should return to the top order.
"I feel the top three should be the same that played in the World Cup. Samson has done well, but he got dropped after two or three bad innings. I want him to get another chance. Abhishek and Ishan also did well for us," Rahane said in a video on his YouTube channel on Friday.
"Vaibhav will get his opportunities, and his time will come. But for now, I feel the top three should be Samson, Abhishek, and Ishan, who were our contributors in the World Cup," he added.
Rahane welcomed Samson's return while pointing to the batter's impact during India's World Cup-winning campaign.
"I am happy to see Sanju Samson back in the team. He was the 'Man of the Series' in the World Cup. It has been up and down, and things were happening to him that were not in his control. But he is a match-winner, and his return strengthens the team," Rahane said.
For Sooryavanshi, Rahane's message was one of patience and freedom. The 15-year-old has made a rapid rise through domestic and franchise cricket, but the former India batter believes the teenager should not overthink his early international career.
"I think he should just play his game right now. He should back the game that led him to come into the Indian team. It is a very early stage for him in his career and in international cricket," Rahane said.
"As of now, there is no need for him to think a lot, and he should be set free. His game will eventually change after two or three years, as much as he keeps playing. It will be important for him to maintain balance. Apart from cricket skills, it is important to stay balanced off the field. That will be a challenge for him."
Sooryavanshi has already provided plenty of evidence of his ability. During the Duleep Trophy, he became the youngest player to score a half-century in the competition, reaching the landmark at 15 years and 175 days.
He made 92 off 81 ******* for East Zone, reaching his fifty from just 42 deliveries and breaking a 57-year-old record previously held by Laxman Singh, who was 16 years and 23 days old when he scored his Duleep Trophy fifty in 1969.
Rahane believes the teenager's next challenge is not
Samson, who was named Player of the Tournament during India's triumphant T20 World Cup campaign, was dropped after a string of low scores on the tour of England. Sooryavanshi was subsequently handed his international debut in Manchester and also opened during the T20Is against Zimbabwe.
With Samson now recalled for the three-match home series against Afghanistan, beginning at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Sunday, Rahane believes the experienced batter should return to the top order.
"I feel the top three should be the same that played in the World Cup. Samson has done well, but he got dropped after two or three bad innings. I want him to get another chance. Abhishek and Ishan also did well for us," Rahane said in a video on his YouTube channel on Friday.
"Vaibhav will get his opportunities, and his time will come. But for now, I feel the top three should be Samson, Abhishek, and Ishan, who were our contributors in the World Cup," he added.
Rahane welcomed Samson's return while pointing to the batter's impact during India's World Cup-winning campaign.
"I am happy to see Sanju Samson back in the team. He was the 'Man of the Series' in the World Cup. It has been up and down, and things were happening to him that were not in his control. But he is a match-winner, and his return strengthens the team," Rahane said.
For Sooryavanshi, Rahane's message was one of patience and freedom. The 15-year-old has made a rapid rise through domestic and franchise cricket, but the former India batter believes the teenager should not overthink his early international career.
"I think he should just play his game right now. He should back the game that led him to come into the Indian team. It is a very early stage for him in his career and in international cricket," Rahane said.
"As of now, there is no need for him to think a lot, and he should be set free. His game will eventually change after two or three years, as much as he keeps playing. It will be important for him to maintain balance. Apart from cricket skills, it is important to stay balanced off the field. That will be a challenge for him."
Sooryavanshi has already provided plenty of evidence of his ability. During the Duleep Trophy, he became the youngest player to score a half-century in the competition, reaching the landmark at 15 years and 175 days.
He made 92 off 81 ******* for East Zone, reaching his fifty from just 42 deliveries and breaking a 57-year-old record previously held by Laxman Singh, who was 16 years and 23 days old when he scored his Duleep Trophy fifty in 1969.
Rahane believes the teenager's next challenge is not
2 months ago
Mohammad Rizwan and Imam-ul-Haq may have left England, but the troubles from Pakistan's disastrous tour don't seem ready to leave them just yet.
According to Geo News, the Pakistan duo have now been summoned by the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) over information reportedly obtained from their mobile phones. And as if that wasn't enough, both players are also set to miss the opening round of the President's Trophy Grade-I after failing to undergo mandatory fitness tests.
It has been quite the homecoming.
Rizwan and Imam were among seven players sent back to Pakistan by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) following the team's heavy defeat to England at Lord's. The decision came after Pakistan's struggles in the Test series, but the drama clearly didn't end when the players boarded their flights home.
According to Geo News, the NCCIA has issued notices to Rizwan and Imam as part of an investigation involving information retrieved from their mobile phones.
The PCB had reportedly taken custody of the players' phones before handing them over to the relevant authorities. Geo News reported that Rizwan and Imam were questioned by the NCCIA for around two hours, with the inquiry reportedly linked to alleged dressing-room leaks during the England series.
The exact circumstances surrounding the investigation remain unclear, and being questioned does not establish any wrongdoing by either player. But for two cricketers who probably wanted nothing more than to forget the England tour, it is certainly an unusual sequel.
As if a cybercrime investigation wasn't enough post-tour paperwork, Geo News sources have now reported that Rizwan and Imam will miss the opening round of the President's Trophy Grade-I. The reason is far less dramatic but equally awkward: mandatory fitness-test reports.
According to the report, Rizwan's SNGPL and Imam's OGDCL did not have the required fitness reports for the two players. Under PCB rules, departmental teams must conduct the fitness tests and submit the reports before players can feature in first-class cricket.
As a result, both will miss the tournament's opening round, scheduled from September 12 to 15. Imam had been named OGDCL captain, while Rizwan was appointed vice-captain of SNGPL.
#england
According to Geo News, the Pakistan duo have now been summoned by the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) over information reportedly obtained from their mobile phones. And as if that wasn't enough, both players are also set to miss the opening round of the President's Trophy Grade-I after failing to undergo mandatory fitness tests.
It has been quite the homecoming.
Rizwan and Imam were among seven players sent back to Pakistan by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) following the team's heavy defeat to England at Lord's. The decision came after Pakistan's struggles in the Test series, but the drama clearly didn't end when the players boarded their flights home.
According to Geo News, the NCCIA has issued notices to Rizwan and Imam as part of an investigation involving information retrieved from their mobile phones.
The PCB had reportedly taken custody of the players' phones before handing them over to the relevant authorities. Geo News reported that Rizwan and Imam were questioned by the NCCIA for around two hours, with the inquiry reportedly linked to alleged dressing-room leaks during the England series.
The exact circumstances surrounding the investigation remain unclear, and being questioned does not establish any wrongdoing by either player. But for two cricketers who probably wanted nothing more than to forget the England tour, it is certainly an unusual sequel.
As if a cybercrime investigation wasn't enough post-tour paperwork, Geo News sources have now reported that Rizwan and Imam will miss the opening round of the President's Trophy Grade-I. The reason is far less dramatic but equally awkward: mandatory fitness-test reports.
According to the report, Rizwan's SNGPL and Imam's OGDCL did not have the required fitness reports for the two players. Under PCB rules, departmental teams must conduct the fitness tests and submit the reports before players can feature in first-class cricket.
As a result, both will miss the tournament's opening round, scheduled from September 12 to 15. Imam had been named OGDCL captain, while Rizwan was appointed vice-captain of SNGPL.
#england
2 months ago
NEW DELHI: Mohammed Shami may be in the latter phase of his career, but the veteran pacer believes young Indian cricketers are arriving with a level of maturity that means they need less coaching and more timely guidance.
Shami, who has not played for India since March 2025 and last featured in a Test during the World Test Championship final against Australia at The Oval in 2023, spoke about mentoring youngsters after helping East Zone win the Duleep Trophy final against South Zone.
Among those who caught his attention was Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, the teenage batter who was part of the East Zone squad.
"I thoroughly enjoyed it. The kid in our team (Vaibhav Sooryavanshi) is literally as old as my career. He has that youthful innocence, loves to joke around, and absorbs things quickly," Shami said.
The 36-year-old believes the exposure young players receive today, particularly through the IPL and other high-pressure competitions, has accelerated their development.
"But most of these youngsters are already quite mature. With the level of cricket they play today—featuring in the IPL and other high-pressure tournaments—maturity comes early, so you don't need to over-coach them," he said.
"But yes, when the game gets tight and challenging, that's when you step in with tactical inputs and remind them to keep fighting," he added.
Shami's own motivation, meanwhile, remains undiminished despite his prolonged absence from India colours.
"There are plenty of reasons to stay motivated if you look for them. At this level, if you aren't self-motivated, your approach is wrong. No matter what stage you're playing at, your eyes must always be set on the next level," he said.
Shami took two important wickets, dismissing Ravichandran Smaran and Sheikh Rasheed, as East Zone secured the Duleep Trophy ******* le on the basis of a first-innings lead. The triumph also coincided with his 100th first-class appearance.
"As far as satisfaction goes, achieving this in my 100th match—and that too in a winning Duleep Trophy final—is special. East Zone has won this after a very long time. You've seen how we performed.
"Every single boy put his heart and soul into this campaign to get us here. To achieve this in these conditions, in this heat, is outstanding. As for me, whether it's your first match or your 100th, it doesn't matter—the effort and the approach remain exactly the same," he said.
Shami also stressed that the level of cricket does not change his approach.
"When you wear that crest on your chest, the level of cricket doesn't matter. If you play for the badge, that hunger will naturally show. Your willingness to fight only grows when you play with that pride.
"My mindset is simple: whichever level I get an opportunity to play, I want to make it count and fulfil my responsibility toward the team," he said.
134048551
#shami #trophy #play #Cricket
Shami, who has not played for India since March 2025 and last featured in a Test during the World Test Championship final against Australia at The Oval in 2023, spoke about mentoring youngsters after helping East Zone win the Duleep Trophy final against South Zone.
Among those who caught his attention was Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, the teenage batter who was part of the East Zone squad.
"I thoroughly enjoyed it. The kid in our team (Vaibhav Sooryavanshi) is literally as old as my career. He has that youthful innocence, loves to joke around, and absorbs things quickly," Shami said.
The 36-year-old believes the exposure young players receive today, particularly through the IPL and other high-pressure competitions, has accelerated their development.
"But most of these youngsters are already quite mature. With the level of cricket they play today—featuring in the IPL and other high-pressure tournaments—maturity comes early, so you don't need to over-coach them," he said.
"But yes, when the game gets tight and challenging, that's when you step in with tactical inputs and remind them to keep fighting," he added.
Shami's own motivation, meanwhile, remains undiminished despite his prolonged absence from India colours.
"There are plenty of reasons to stay motivated if you look for them. At this level, if you aren't self-motivated, your approach is wrong. No matter what stage you're playing at, your eyes must always be set on the next level," he said.
Shami took two important wickets, dismissing Ravichandran Smaran and Sheikh Rasheed, as East Zone secured the Duleep Trophy ******* le on the basis of a first-innings lead. The triumph also coincided with his 100th first-class appearance.
"As far as satisfaction goes, achieving this in my 100th match—and that too in a winning Duleep Trophy final—is special. East Zone has won this after a very long time. You've seen how we performed.
"Every single boy put his heart and soul into this campaign to get us here. To achieve this in these conditions, in this heat, is outstanding. As for me, whether it's your first match or your 100th, it doesn't matter—the effort and the approach remain exactly the same," he said.
Shami also stressed that the level of cricket does not change his approach.
"When you wear that crest on your chest, the level of cricket doesn't matter. If you play for the badge, that hunger will naturally show. Your willingness to fight only grows when you play with that pride.
"My mindset is simple: whichever level I get an opportunity to play, I want to make it count and fulfil my responsibility toward the team," he said.
134048551
#shami #trophy #play #Cricket
2 months ago
The San Francisco 49ers have received mixed injury news after their 27-7 win over the Los Angeles Rams, with Jake Tonges facing a concerning MCL injury while De'Zhaun Stribling avoided the worst-case scenario.
Tonges was hurt during the victory at the Melbourne Cricket Ground and needed ***** istance off the field before being ruled out. Kyle Shanahan later gave a blunt ***** sment of the tight end's situation, saying "it's not good" before adding that further evaluation was still needed.
The injury is particularly significant given Tonges' role behind George Kittle. He recorded 34 receptions for 293 yards and five touchdowns last season before signing a two-year, $8 million contract with San Francisco this year.
Photo by Robert Cianflone/Getty Images
Stribling also suffered an injury during the game, initially leaving with an ankle problem before returning and then going down again on the following possession.
#Rams
Tonges was hurt during the victory at the Melbourne Cricket Ground and needed ***** istance off the field before being ruled out. Kyle Shanahan later gave a blunt ***** sment of the tight end's situation, saying "it's not good" before adding that further evaluation was still needed.
The injury is particularly significant given Tonges' role behind George Kittle. He recorded 34 receptions for 293 yards and five touchdowns last season before signing a two-year, $8 million contract with San Francisco this year.
Photo by Robert Cianflone/Getty Images
Stribling also suffered an injury during the game, initially leaving with an ankle problem before returning and then going down again on the following possession.
#Rams
