9 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
21 days ago
The calendar has turned to October, and in a lot of places across the United States, the weather is starting to feel a little more crisp and a little more fall. The autumnal decorations have begun, ranging from pumpkins on porches to apple cider candles.
On this week's episode of the New Heights podcast, Jason Kelce and little brother Travis had a good laugh about some of that fall spirit. One fan put together a hay bale display (see below) that featured "Haylor Swift" and "Travis Kelc-hay," showing the couple in their Eras Tour and Kansas City costumes/uniforms, respectively.
Travis couldn't get enough of the depiction of him and his wife, although he did call out the crossed eyes. "Why'd they have to make my wife cross-eyed? That's all I'm asking." Kelce questioned. "Maybe Tay is about to sneeze," Jason added.
"She does go cross-eyed before she sneezes," Travis responded with a hearty laugh. The brothers closed out the segment wondering about the height of the hay bales and what would happen to the hay at the end of the season.
This article originally appeared on For The Win: Travis Kelce tickled over Taylor Swift hay decorations: 'Why'd they make my wife cross-eyed?'
#travis #kelce #cross #fall
On this week's episode of the New Heights podcast, Jason Kelce and little brother Travis had a good laugh about some of that fall spirit. One fan put together a hay bale display (see below) that featured "Haylor Swift" and "Travis Kelc-hay," showing the couple in their Eras Tour and Kansas City costumes/uniforms, respectively.
Travis couldn't get enough of the depiction of him and his wife, although he did call out the crossed eyes. "Why'd they have to make my wife cross-eyed? That's all I'm asking." Kelce questioned. "Maybe Tay is about to sneeze," Jason added.
"She does go cross-eyed before she sneezes," Travis responded with a hearty laugh. The brothers closed out the segment wondering about the height of the hay bales and what would happen to the hay at the end of the season.
This article originally appeared on For The Win: Travis Kelce tickled over Taylor Swift hay decorations: 'Why'd they make my wife cross-eyed?'
#travis #kelce #cross #fall
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
A man has been arrested and charged over an ******* ault at the Celtic v Hearts ******* le decider at Celtic Park.
The game on 16 May saw scores of fans run onto the pitch in injury time, after Celtic scored a third goal that clinched a 3-1 win and the Premiership ******* le.
Trouble also occurred in Glasgow's Trongate area after the game, with two police officers seriously injured and three members of the public needing hospital treatment.
The 38-year-old man is due to appear at Glasgow Sheriff Court at a later date.
More than 30 other people have been arrested over the trouble in the Trongate, for a number of different offences.
#arrested #game #park
The game on 16 May saw scores of fans run onto the pitch in injury time, after Celtic scored a third goal that clinched a 3-1 win and the Premiership ******* le.
Trouble also occurred in Glasgow's Trongate area after the game, with two police officers seriously injured and three members of the public needing hospital treatment.
The 38-year-old man is due to appear at Glasgow Sheriff Court at a later date.
More than 30 other people have been arrested over the trouble in the Trongate, for a number of different offences.
#arrested #game #park
2 months ago
Matchday 27 continued this Saturday (12) with six more games.
After the "crazy" 3-3 draw between Coritiba and Athletico-PR in the opening match of the round last Friday (11), the "rain of goals" continued in the Brasileirão.
The day began with Atlético-MG's solid 3-1 win over Fluminense in Belo Horizonte.
Both the Minas Gerais side and the Rio de Janeiro team fielded reserve/mixed lineups because of their continental deciders next week.
Galo need to overturn a 2-0 deficit at home against Santos in the Conmebol Sudamericana quarter-finals, while the Laranjeiras Tricolor travel to Argentina to face Platense holding a 2-0 advantage in the Libertadores quarter-finals.
#quarter #Friday
After the "crazy" 3-3 draw between Coritiba and Athletico-PR in the opening match of the round last Friday (11), the "rain of goals" continued in the Brasileirão.
The day began with Atlético-MG's solid 3-1 win over Fluminense in Belo Horizonte.
Both the Minas Gerais side and the Rio de Janeiro team fielded reserve/mixed lineups because of their continental deciders next week.
Galo need to overturn a 2-0 deficit at home against Santos in the Conmebol Sudamericana quarter-finals, while the Laranjeiras Tricolor travel to Argentina to face Platense holding a 2-0 advantage in the Libertadores quarter-finals.
#quarter #Friday
2 months ago
Chinese e-commerce giants such as Shein and Temu have reshaped the retail landscape amid economic uncertainty, higher prices, and cautious consumer spending by offering shoppers a wide range of products at extremely low prices.
Their growth has prompted established companies such as Amazon, Target, and Walmart to invest in strategies like third-party marketplaces, supply chain infrastructure, and digital tools to keep pace with changing consumer habits.
Now, one online-first fashion retailer is taking a different approach. While many established brands have been reassessing their physical footprints and closing underperforming stores, this e-commerce fashion company is moving in the opposite direction by expanding its brick-and-mortar presence in the U.S.
Founded in 2020 as an online-first womenswear brand, Cider has built its business around affordable, trend-driven fashion and a digital-focused shopping experience.
Cider opened its second permanent U.S. retail location on September 4, 2026, at Westfield Valley Fair in San Jose, California. The 11,269-square-foot store is located at 2855 Stevens Creek Blvd., ****** e No. 2411.
#fashion #cider #prices #first
Their growth has prompted established companies such as Amazon, Target, and Walmart to invest in strategies like third-party marketplaces, supply chain infrastructure, and digital tools to keep pace with changing consumer habits.
Now, one online-first fashion retailer is taking a different approach. While many established brands have been reassessing their physical footprints and closing underperforming stores, this e-commerce fashion company is moving in the opposite direction by expanding its brick-and-mortar presence in the U.S.
Founded in 2020 as an online-first womenswear brand, Cider has built its business around affordable, trend-driven fashion and a digital-focused shopping experience.
Cider opened its second permanent U.S. retail location on September 4, 2026, at Westfield Valley Fair in San Jose, California. The 11,269-square-foot store is located at 2855 Stevens Creek Blvd., ****** e No. 2411.
#fashion #cider #prices #first
2 months ago
Rinku Singh trumps Bhuvneshwar ***** ar in final as Meerut Mavericks win UPT20 league 2026 ***** le originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
India star Rinku Singh's Meerut Mavericks secured the UP T20 League 2026 ***** le with a merciless 94-run thrashing of the Lucknow Falcons.
Divyansh Joshi reduced the Lucknow bowling attack to dust, scoring 105 runs off just 40 deliveries.
The Falcons' chase completely collapsed under scoreboard pressure, folding for just 109 in a woefully one-sided finale.
Everyone who saw the fixture for the finals of the 2026 UPT20 expected a steady battle between the bat and the ball. Rinku Singh's Mavericks had impressed in all their games heading into the decider, while Bhuvneshwar ***** ar's Falcons had also narrowly edged the Kashi Rudras by one run.
#falcons #meerut
India star Rinku Singh's Meerut Mavericks secured the UP T20 League 2026 ***** le with a merciless 94-run thrashing of the Lucknow Falcons.
Divyansh Joshi reduced the Lucknow bowling attack to dust, scoring 105 runs off just 40 deliveries.
The Falcons' chase completely collapsed under scoreboard pressure, folding for just 109 in a woefully one-sided finale.
Everyone who saw the fixture for the finals of the 2026 UPT20 expected a steady battle between the bat and the ball. Rinku Singh's Mavericks had impressed in all their games heading into the decider, while Bhuvneshwar ***** ar's Falcons had also narrowly edged the Kashi Rudras by one run.
#falcons #meerut
2 months ago
'T20 players included for Tests': Shahid Afridi, Shoaib Malik slam Pakistan selectors over squad selection amid chaos in England tour originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Shahid Afridi criticised PCB for including T20 specialists in Pakistan's Test squad ahead of the Edgbaston decider.
Afridi also questioned the decision to sack head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed after just five Test matches in charge.
Seven players were released overall, with only two experienced additions among the new faces brought into the squad.
Shoaib Malik labelled PCB's decision 'ridiculous'.
#afridi #Cricket #players
Shahid Afridi criticised PCB for including T20 specialists in Pakistan's Test squad ahead of the Edgbaston decider.
Afridi also questioned the decision to sack head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed after just five Test matches in charge.
Seven players were released overall, with only two experienced additions among the new faces brought into the squad.
Shoaib Malik labelled PCB's decision 'ridiculous'.
#afridi #Cricket #players
2 months ago
Cross denies history making Beau Greaves in dramatic Budapest encounter originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Rob Cross overcame Beau Greaves in an incredible opening round tie at the Hungarian Darts Trophy, as reigning champion Niko Springer enjoyed a winning return in Budapest.
The 2026 European Tour season resumed with a **** per day of action at the MVM Dome, as Cross denied Greaves a dream debut in the Hungarian capital.
The three-time Women's World Matchplay champion — the first woman to compete in a European Tour event — averaged 104.88 and posted five 180s in a superb all-round display, only to succumb in a dramatic decider.
CHECK OUT DARTSWORLD'S DEDICATED WOMEN'S DARTS AREA
#greaves #beau
Rob Cross overcame Beau Greaves in an incredible opening round tie at the Hungarian Darts Trophy, as reigning champion Niko Springer enjoyed a winning return in Budapest.
The 2026 European Tour season resumed with a **** per day of action at the MVM Dome, as Cross denied Greaves a dream debut in the Hungarian capital.
The three-time Women's World Matchplay champion — the first woman to compete in a European Tour event — averaged 104.88 and posted five 180s in a superb all-round display, only to succumb in a dramatic decider.
CHECK OUT DARTSWORLD'S DEDICATED WOMEN'S DARTS AREA
#greaves #beau
2 months ago
Vasco and Cruzeiro face off this Saturday (29) at São Januário, at 9:20 p.m. (Brasília time), in a match valid for the 25th round of the 2026 Brasileirão.
Raposa sit fifth in the table with 39 points and are looking for their fifth straight win in the league to move into the top four.
Cruz-Maltino, meanwhile, are second from bottom with just 22 points and need to return to winning ways in the competition to avoid getting into even more trouble in the relegation battle.
This Saturday's game comes right between the Copa do Brasil quarterfinal deciders.
Compared to the last match (a 1-0 win over Vitória in the Copa do Brasil), coach Pedro Emanuel chose to start Paulo Henrique, Lucas Freitas, Sosa, Tchê Tchê and Adson in place of Pumita Rodríguez, Robert Renan, Cauan Barros, Ramon Rique and Spinelli, respectively, for Vasco.
#vasco #copa #points #bras
Raposa sit fifth in the table with 39 points and are looking for their fifth straight win in the league to move into the top four.
Cruz-Maltino, meanwhile, are second from bottom with just 22 points and need to return to winning ways in the competition to avoid getting into even more trouble in the relegation battle.
This Saturday's game comes right between the Copa do Brasil quarterfinal deciders.
Compared to the last match (a 1-0 win over Vitória in the Copa do Brasil), coach Pedro Emanuel chose to start Paulo Henrique, Lucas Freitas, Sosa, Tchê Tchê and Adson in place of Pumita Rodríguez, Robert Renan, Cauan Barros, Ramon Rique and Spinelli, respectively, for Vasco.
#vasco #copa #points #bras
2 months ago
Gabriel Bannigan has stepped down from his role as Monaghan manager after two years at the helm.
Bannigan initially joined Monaghan as part of Vinny Corey's management team in 2022 before succeeding Corey as boss in 2024.
Under Bannigan, Monaghan won the Division Two **** le in 2025 and reached successive All-Ireland quarter-finals where they were knocked out by Donegal and then Louth.
The Farney men were relegated from Division One this year after a tough league campaign in which they failed to pick up a point.
They bounced back well in the Ulster SFC with wins over Cavan and Derry but suffered an extra-time defeat against Armagh in the decider.
#vinny #corey #donegal
Bannigan initially joined Monaghan as part of Vinny Corey's management team in 2022 before succeeding Corey as boss in 2024.
Under Bannigan, Monaghan won the Division Two **** le in 2025 and reached successive All-Ireland quarter-finals where they were knocked out by Donegal and then Louth.
The Farney men were relegated from Division One this year after a tough league campaign in which they failed to pick up a point.
They bounced back well in the Ulster SFC with wins over Cavan and Derry but suffered an extra-time defeat against Armagh in the decider.
#vinny #corey #donegal
2 months ago
The India-Sri Lanka series shifts venues for its decider, moving from Galle's spin-friendly track to the Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo, which is a ground known for offering a very different kind of contest.
Batting first has historically paid off at this venue, with teams regularly posting big totals early in matches, which makes Wednesday's toss potentially decisive.
Rain looms as a genuine concern too, with forecasts suggesting interruptions across all five days, while Colombo's heat is expected to sap energy from the bowling attacks. Spin has still had the upper hand recently, as spinners have picked up 45 wickets across the last three Tests here, compared to 35 for the pacers.
India arrive full of confidence following their commanding 165-run win in the series opener. Devdutt Padikkal, KL Rahul, and Manav Suthar were the standout contributors in Galle. They will fancy their chances of completing a 2-0 sweep, a result that would also strengthen their push toward the 2027 World Test Championship final.
Add The Sporting News as a preferred news source
#across #lanka #sports
Batting first has historically paid off at this venue, with teams regularly posting big totals early in matches, which makes Wednesday's toss potentially decisive.
Rain looms as a genuine concern too, with forecasts suggesting interruptions across all five days, while Colombo's heat is expected to sap energy from the bowling attacks. Spin has still had the upper hand recently, as spinners have picked up 45 wickets across the last three Tests here, compared to 35 for the pacers.
India arrive full of confidence following their commanding 165-run win in the series opener. Devdutt Padikkal, KL Rahul, and Manav Suthar were the standout contributors in Galle. They will fancy their chances of completing a 2-0 sweep, a result that would also strengthen their push toward the 2027 World Test Championship final.
Add The Sporting News as a preferred news source
#across #lanka #sports
2 months ago
Britons Jacob Fearnley, Toby Samuel, Harry Wendelken and Harriet Dart stand one win away from a place in the US Open main draw after coming through their second round qualifying matches in New York.
Fearnley showed great resilience in battling to a three-set victory over Frenchman Luka Pavlovic, which set up a meeting with Austria's Jurij Rodionov.
The 25-year-old world number 100 recovered from a break of serve down to take the opening set, and held his nerve in the decider after his opponent levelled the match to clinch a 6-4 6-7 (4-7) 6-4 win.
Samuel, bidding to qualify for the US Open for the first time, produced a comeback victory against fellow Briton Billy Harris.
The 23-year-old, who made his slam debut at this year's French Open, recovered to win 4-6 6-4 6-1 and set up a meeting with Chile's former top-20 player Cristian Garin.
#open #recovered
Fearnley showed great resilience in battling to a three-set victory over Frenchman Luka Pavlovic, which set up a meeting with Austria's Jurij Rodionov.
The 25-year-old world number 100 recovered from a break of serve down to take the opening set, and held his nerve in the decider after his opponent levelled the match to clinch a 6-4 6-7 (4-7) 6-4 win.
Samuel, bidding to qualify for the US Open for the first time, produced a comeback victory against fellow Briton Billy Harris.
The 23-year-old, who made his slam debut at this year's French Open, recovered to win 4-6 6-4 6-1 and set up a meeting with Chile's former top-20 player Cristian Garin.
#open #recovered
2 months ago
The India-Sri Lanka series shifts venues for its decider, moving from Galle's spin-friendly track to the Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo, which is a ground known for offering a very different kind of contest.
Batting first has historically paid off at this venue, with teams regularly posting big totals early in matches, which makes Wednesday's toss potentially decisive.
Rain looms as a genuine concern too, with forecasts suggesting interruptions across all five days, while Colombo's heat is expected to sap energy from the bowling attacks. Spin has still had the upper hand recently, as spinners have picked up 45 wickets across the last three Tests here, compared to 35 for the pacers.
India arrive full of confidence following their commanding 165-run win in the series opener. Devdutt Padikkal, KL Rahul, and Manav Suthar were the standout contributors in Galle. They will fancy their chances of completing a 2-0 sweep, a result that would also strengthen their push toward the 2027 World Test Championship final.
Add The Sporting News as a preferred news source
#spin #series
Batting first has historically paid off at this venue, with teams regularly posting big totals early in matches, which makes Wednesday's toss potentially decisive.
Rain looms as a genuine concern too, with forecasts suggesting interruptions across all five days, while Colombo's heat is expected to sap energy from the bowling attacks. Spin has still had the upper hand recently, as spinners have picked up 45 wickets across the last three Tests here, compared to 35 for the pacers.
India arrive full of confidence following their commanding 165-run win in the series opener. Devdutt Padikkal, KL Rahul, and Manav Suthar were the standout contributors in Galle. They will fancy their chances of completing a 2-0 sweep, a result that would also strengthen their push toward the 2027 World Test Championship final.
Add The Sporting News as a preferred news source
#spin #series
2 months ago
The India-Sri Lanka series shifts venues for its decider, moving from Galle's spin-friendly track to the Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo, which is a ground known for offering a very different kind of contest.
Batting first has historically paid off at this venue, with teams regularly posting big totals early in matches, which makes Wednesday's toss potentially decisive.
Rain looms as a genuine concern too, with forecasts suggesting interruptions across all five days, while Colombo's heat is expected to sap energy from the bowling attacks. Spin has still had the upper hand recently, as spinners have picked up 45 wickets across the last three Tests here, compared to 35 for the pacers.
India arrive full of confidence following their commanding 165-run win in the series opener. Devdutt Padikkal, KL Rahul, and Manav Suthar were the standout contributors in Galle. They will fancy their chances of completing a 2-0 sweep, a result that would also strengthen their push toward the 2027 World Test Championship final.
Add The Sporting News as a preferred news source
#series #club
Batting first has historically paid off at this venue, with teams regularly posting big totals early in matches, which makes Wednesday's toss potentially decisive.
Rain looms as a genuine concern too, with forecasts suggesting interruptions across all five days, while Colombo's heat is expected to sap energy from the bowling attacks. Spin has still had the upper hand recently, as spinners have picked up 45 wickets across the last three Tests here, compared to 35 for the pacers.
India arrive full of confidence following their commanding 165-run win in the series opener. Devdutt Padikkal, KL Rahul, and Manav Suthar were the standout contributors in Galle. They will fancy their chances of completing a 2-0 sweep, a result that would also strengthen their push toward the 2027 World Test Championship final.
Add The Sporting News as a preferred news source
#series #club
2 months ago
The India-Sri Lanka series shifts venues for its decider, moving from Galle's spin-friendly track to the Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo, which is a ground known for offering a very different kind of contest.
Batting first has historically paid off at this venue, with teams regularly posting big totals early in matches, which makes Wednesday's toss potentially decisive.
Rain looms as a genuine concern too, with forecasts suggesting interruptions across all five days, while Colombo's heat is expected to sap energy from the bowling attacks. Spin has still had the upper hand recently, as spinners have picked up 45 wickets across the last three Tests here, compared to 35 for the pacers.
India arrive full of confidence following their commanding 165-run win in the series opener. Devdutt Padikkal, KL Rahul, and Manav Suthar were the standout contributors in Galle. They will fancy their chances of completing a 2-0 sweep, a result that would also strengthen their push toward the 2027 World Test Championship final.
Add The Sporting News as a preferred news source
#spin #lanka
Batting first has historically paid off at this venue, with teams regularly posting big totals early in matches, which makes Wednesday's toss potentially decisive.
Rain looms as a genuine concern too, with forecasts suggesting interruptions across all five days, while Colombo's heat is expected to sap energy from the bowling attacks. Spin has still had the upper hand recently, as spinners have picked up 45 wickets across the last three Tests here, compared to 35 for the pacers.
India arrive full of confidence following their commanding 165-run win in the series opener. Devdutt Padikkal, KL Rahul, and Manav Suthar were the standout contributors in Galle. They will fancy their chances of completing a 2-0 sweep, a result that would also strengthen their push toward the 2027 World Test Championship final.
Add The Sporting News as a preferred news source
#spin #lanka
2 months ago
The India-Sri Lanka series shifts venues for its decider, moving from Galle's spin-friendly track to the Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo, which is a ground known for offering a very different kind of contest.
Batting first has historically paid off at this venue, with teams regularly posting big totals early in matches, which makes Wednesday's toss potentially decisive.
Rain looms as a genuine concern too, with forecasts suggesting interruptions across all five days, while Colombo's heat is expected to sap energy from the bowling attacks. Spin has still had the upper hand recently, as spinners have picked up 45 wickets across the last three Tests here, compared to 35 for the pacers.
India arrive full of confidence following their commanding 165-run win in the series opener. Devdutt Padikkal, KL Rahul, and Manav Suthar were the standout contributors in Galle. They will fancy their chances of completing a 2-0 sweep, a result that would also strengthen their push toward the 2027 World Test Championship final.
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#India #club
Batting first has historically paid off at this venue, with teams regularly posting big totals early in matches, which makes Wednesday's toss potentially decisive.
Rain looms as a genuine concern too, with forecasts suggesting interruptions across all five days, while Colombo's heat is expected to sap energy from the bowling attacks. Spin has still had the upper hand recently, as spinners have picked up 45 wickets across the last three Tests here, compared to 35 for the pacers.
India arrive full of confidence following their commanding 165-run win in the series opener. Devdutt Padikkal, KL Rahul, and Manav Suthar were the standout contributors in Galle. They will fancy their chances of completing a 2-0 sweep, a result that would also strengthen their push toward the 2027 World Test Championship final.
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#India #club
2 months ago
Colby Donovan and the Celtic Roar at Fir Park. Photographs by Vagelis Georgariou
He could of course have attended as part of the official party but decided to take the opportunity as a Celtic supporter to go into the away end to cheer the team on to that iconic 3-2 victory which set up the Hearts breaking ***** le decider.
16.05.2026 Celtic v Hearts, Scottish Premiership. Dane Murray, Liam Scales, Colby Donovan and Kieran Tierney celebrate. Photo Kenny Ramsay. IMAGO / News Licensing
With Alistair Johnston sidelined with his troublesome hamstring – the Canadian. will be out until November – Martin O'Neill opted for the Celtic teenager rather than the more experienced Anthony Ralston. And the 19 year-old Celtic defender certainly didn't let his manager down.
Champions League, play-off, Celtic Glasgow vs Linzer ASK, preview, training LASK. Image shows a match ball. Photo GEPA pictures/ Manuel Binder IMAGO
#imago #park #georgariou
He could of course have attended as part of the official party but decided to take the opportunity as a Celtic supporter to go into the away end to cheer the team on to that iconic 3-2 victory which set up the Hearts breaking ***** le decider.
16.05.2026 Celtic v Hearts, Scottish Premiership. Dane Murray, Liam Scales, Colby Donovan and Kieran Tierney celebrate. Photo Kenny Ramsay. IMAGO / News Licensing
With Alistair Johnston sidelined with his troublesome hamstring – the Canadian. will be out until November – Martin O'Neill opted for the Celtic teenager rather than the more experienced Anthony Ralston. And the 19 year-old Celtic defender certainly didn't let his manager down.
Champions League, play-off, Celtic Glasgow vs Linzer ASK, preview, training LASK. Image shows a match ball. Photo GEPA pictures/ Manuel Binder IMAGO
#imago #park #georgariou
2 months ago
Strategic Beverage Services has acquired the US operations of BevZero, a move the company said create the nation's "largest" dealcoholisation service provider.
The financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
Strategic Beverage Services, based in Santa Rosa in California, said the purchase will broaden its operating capacity and its footprint across clients that span wineries, distilleries, cider producers and functional beverage companies.
Patrick Morgan, the company's chief operating officer told Just Drinks, the transaction includes all of BevZero's US ******* ets, including three spinning cone vacuum distillation columns, along with related tanks and other equipment.
He said the company has bought the US franchise rights from BevZero International, which is now focusing on expanding its services in Europe.
#Services #transaction #santa
The financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
Strategic Beverage Services, based in Santa Rosa in California, said the purchase will broaden its operating capacity and its footprint across clients that span wineries, distilleries, cider producers and functional beverage companies.
Patrick Morgan, the company's chief operating officer told Just Drinks, the transaction includes all of BevZero's US ******* ets, including three spinning cone vacuum distillation columns, along with related tanks and other equipment.
He said the company has bought the US franchise rights from BevZero International, which is now focusing on expanding its services in Europe.
#Services #transaction #santa
2 months ago
Manchester Super Giants clinched their maiden men's ******* le while Trent Rockets Women lifted their first-ever trophy as The Hundred's sixth season reached a dramatic conclusion at Lord's. The Hundred's sixth season signed off in style at Lord's, with Manchester Super Giants and Trent Rockets sharing the spotlight on a Finals Day that produced two contrasting ******* le deciders.
Manchester Super Giants, formerly known as Manchester Originals, survived a late collapse to defeat Trent Rockets by five wickets in the men's final, while Trent Rockets Women produced a ruthless display to crush Sunrisers Leeds by eight wickets and claim their maiden ******* le.
The Trent Rockets also walked away with an additional prize, winning the inaugural Helix trophy for the best combined franchise performance across the men's and women's competitions.
The men's final looked to be slipping away from Manchester Super Giants before Tim Seifert intervened with a breathtaking ******* ault. Trent Rockets posted 158 for 8 from their 100 ******* , with Aneurin Donald leading the recovery with a rapid 38 off 19 ******* , while captain Lewis Gregory contributed 32 from 19.
The Rockets had made a steady start through Ben Duckett, but their momentum was checked by a double blow. Spinner Noor Ahmad was involved in the dismissal of captain Sam Billings before removing Tim David for a duck, leaving Manchester with an opening to seize control.
Donald and Gregory then rebuilt the innings with aggressive strokeplay, pushing Trent towards a competitive total of 158. Manchester's response began with a clear intent to attack.
Seifert turned the chase into a spectacle, smashing 72 off just 38 ******* , including seven sixes. His calculated aggression kept Manchester ahead of the required rate and put the Rockets under immense pressure. Paul Walter provided valuable support, adding 22 off 14 ******* , with the pair putting together a blistering 66-run stand from only 31 ******* .
But just when Manchester appeared certain to cruise home, the final overs produced a dramatic twist. Mohammad Amir dragged the Super Giants back into the contest with a superb spell, conceding just 29 runs and helping create six consecutive dot ******* . Heinrich Klaasen and Michael Bracewell also departed as the pressure suddenly mounted.
With Manchester needing a boundary to settle the nerves, Liam Dawson delivered. He launched a towering six over deep midwicket with just two ******* remaining, taking Manchester Super Giants to 162 for 5 after 98 ******* and sealing their first men's ******* le.
Noor Ahmad finished with three wickets for Manchester, while Amir claimed three for Trent Rockets, but it was Seifert's extraordinary innings that ultimately defined the final.
If the men's final went down to the wire, the women's contest was almost the complete opposite. Trent Rockets Women dismantled Sunrisers Leeds, formerly Northern Superchargers, to secure a commanding eight-wicket
Manchester Super Giants, formerly known as Manchester Originals, survived a late collapse to defeat Trent Rockets by five wickets in the men's final, while Trent Rockets Women produced a ruthless display to crush Sunrisers Leeds by eight wickets and claim their maiden ******* le.
The Trent Rockets also walked away with an additional prize, winning the inaugural Helix trophy for the best combined franchise performance across the men's and women's competitions.
The men's final looked to be slipping away from Manchester Super Giants before Tim Seifert intervened with a breathtaking ******* ault. Trent Rockets posted 158 for 8 from their 100 ******* , with Aneurin Donald leading the recovery with a rapid 38 off 19 ******* , while captain Lewis Gregory contributed 32 from 19.
The Rockets had made a steady start through Ben Duckett, but their momentum was checked by a double blow. Spinner Noor Ahmad was involved in the dismissal of captain Sam Billings before removing Tim David for a duck, leaving Manchester with an opening to seize control.
Donald and Gregory then rebuilt the innings with aggressive strokeplay, pushing Trent towards a competitive total of 158. Manchester's response began with a clear intent to attack.
Seifert turned the chase into a spectacle, smashing 72 off just 38 ******* , including seven sixes. His calculated aggression kept Manchester ahead of the required rate and put the Rockets under immense pressure. Paul Walter provided valuable support, adding 22 off 14 ******* , with the pair putting together a blistering 66-run stand from only 31 ******* .
But just when Manchester appeared certain to cruise home, the final overs produced a dramatic twist. Mohammad Amir dragged the Super Giants back into the contest with a superb spell, conceding just 29 runs and helping create six consecutive dot ******* . Heinrich Klaasen and Michael Bracewell also departed as the pressure suddenly mounted.
With Manchester needing a boundary to settle the nerves, Liam Dawson delivered. He launched a towering six over deep midwicket with just two ******* remaining, taking Manchester Super Giants to 162 for 5 after 98 ******* and sealing their first men's ******* le.
Noor Ahmad finished with three wickets for Manchester, while Amir claimed three for Trent Rockets, but it was Seifert's extraordinary innings that ultimately defined the final.
If the men's final went down to the wire, the women's contest was almost the complete opposite. Trent Rockets Women dismantled Sunrisers Leeds, formerly Northern Superchargers, to secure a commanding eight-wicket
2 months ago
Cameroon claimed a first Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) ****** le when they thumped surprise package Malawi 3-0 in the final, as Marie Ngah's first-half double helped seal victory on Sunday.
Cameroon had lost three finals but made it fourth-time lucky against a Malawi side making their debut at the continental championship. Ranked 153 in the world and 32nd on the African continent, Malawi had a fairytale run to the decider.
The two finalists had already sealed their place at the Women's World Cup in Brazil next year, along with fellow semifinalists Morocco and Algeria. The latter finished third after winning the bronze medal fixture on penalties on Saturday.
Under pressure FIFA chief Gianni Infantino was all smiles as he handed the Indomitable Lionesses their medals in the presence of Confederation of African Football President Patrice Motsepe, with several players requesting photographs with the Swiss.
Infantino has long enjoyed the support of many on the African continent as he bids for re-election next March despite revelations of his now-abandoned plans to sell a stake in future World Cups that drew worldwide condemnation.
#continent
Cameroon had lost three finals but made it fourth-time lucky against a Malawi side making their debut at the continental championship. Ranked 153 in the world and 32nd on the African continent, Malawi had a fairytale run to the decider.
The two finalists had already sealed their place at the Women's World Cup in Brazil next year, along with fellow semifinalists Morocco and Algeria. The latter finished third after winning the bronze medal fixture on penalties on Saturday.
Under pressure FIFA chief Gianni Infantino was all smiles as he handed the Indomitable Lionesses their medals in the presence of Confederation of African Football President Patrice Motsepe, with several players requesting photographs with the Swiss.
Infantino has long enjoyed the support of many on the African continent as he bids for re-election next March despite revelations of his now-abandoned plans to sell a stake in future World Cups that drew worldwide condemnation.
#continent
3 months ago
Belinda Bencic found herself locked in a closely contested battle with Taylor Townsend in the third round of the Canadian Open, narrowly avoiding an upset at the hands of the American.
Bencic's emotions came to the fore during the tense contest as she voiced her frustrations toward her coaching team in her player's box, which included her husband and fitness coach, Martin Hromkovič.
No. 12 seed Bencic made a strong start to her campaign at the WTA 1000 event in Toronto by securing a dominant 6-3, 6-1 win over Sloane Stephens in her opening match, following a first-round bye.
The 29-year-old faced a much tougher test in her third-round showdown with Taylor Townsend. Although Bencic fended off three set points in the opening set, Townsend edged her out in the tiebreak. Nevertheless, the Swiss fought back to clinch the second-set tiebreak and force a decider.
Despite winning the set, Bencic appeared unimpressed with her coaching team's demeanor in her player's box, lashing out in an animated outburst during the changeover.
#bencic #Coaching #opening
Bencic's emotions came to the fore during the tense contest as she voiced her frustrations toward her coaching team in her player's box, which included her husband and fitness coach, Martin Hromkovič.
No. 12 seed Bencic made a strong start to her campaign at the WTA 1000 event in Toronto by securing a dominant 6-3, 6-1 win over Sloane Stephens in her opening match, following a first-round bye.
The 29-year-old faced a much tougher test in her third-round showdown with Taylor Townsend. Although Bencic fended off three set points in the opening set, Townsend edged her out in the tiebreak. Nevertheless, the Swiss fought back to clinch the second-set tiebreak and force a decider.
Despite winning the set, Bencic appeared unimpressed with her coaching team's demeanor in her player's box, lashing out in an animated outburst during the changeover.
#bencic #Coaching #opening
3 months ago
Former India cricketer Mohammed Kaif believes Rohit Sharma has made up his mind not to retire from ODI cricket on his own and will instead leave it to the selectors to decide when his journey with the national team should end.
Rohit's future has been under intense scrutiny since India's ODI series against England. Reports ahead of the tour claimed that the senior selection committee had informed the veteran opener he was not part of India's plans for the 2027 ODI World Cup, with the selectors keen to invest in younger opening options, including Yashasvi Jaiswal.
The speculation gathered further pace after Rohit managed a slow-paced 26 off 47 ******* in the second ODI at Cardiff. Questions over his future intensified, with reports suggesting the series decider at Lord's on July 19 could be his final ODI appearance for India.
However, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia dismissed those claims before the match, stating that no decision had been taken to make the Lord's fixture Rohit's farewell game. While the clarification ended immediate speculation, it did not confirm whether Rohit remained part of India's long-term plans leading up to the 2027 World Cup.
The veteran opener responded in style, smashing 138 from just 110 deliveries during India's chase of 388 at Lord's. His innings, featuring 17 fours and five sixes, made him the first Indian batter to score an ODI century at the iconic venue, although India eventually fell 27 runs short and lost the series 2-1.
Following the match, captain Shubman Gill said Rohit had not informed the team about any retirement plans, while Rohit himself insisted his only focus was on scoring runs for India.
Sharing his views on the situation, Kaif said Rohit's recent actions suggest he has no intention of stepping away voluntarily.
"Yes, one thing has become clear," Kaif said during a discussion. "Rohit Sharma is effectively saying, 'If I am not playing well, you take the call yourselves. Drop me.'
"The fact that he has not stepped away or announced his retirement, the enthusiasm he is showing, the way he is approaching his batting and the hundred he scored at Lord's — all of this shows that he is now focused entirely on playing. Whatever the selectors want to do after that is up to them. Perhaps earlier there was an attempt to convince him about certain things internally. The problem at the moment is that it is difficult to understand who stands where. There is a lot of confusion," Kaif said on his YouTube channel.
Kaif also questioned the lack of clarity from the team management regarding Rohit's long-term future. While coaches have repeatedly backed the opener to play with freedom, the former India batter believes the management should clearly state whether Rohit remains part of its World Cup plans.
"At times, members of the coaching staff come out and say, 'We have given Rohit Sharma complete freedom to play his natural game.' But ******* ody has yet made a clear statement saying, 'Ro
Rohit's future has been under intense scrutiny since India's ODI series against England. Reports ahead of the tour claimed that the senior selection committee had informed the veteran opener he was not part of India's plans for the 2027 ODI World Cup, with the selectors keen to invest in younger opening options, including Yashasvi Jaiswal.
The speculation gathered further pace after Rohit managed a slow-paced 26 off 47 ******* in the second ODI at Cardiff. Questions over his future intensified, with reports suggesting the series decider at Lord's on July 19 could be his final ODI appearance for India.
However, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia dismissed those claims before the match, stating that no decision had been taken to make the Lord's fixture Rohit's farewell game. While the clarification ended immediate speculation, it did not confirm whether Rohit remained part of India's long-term plans leading up to the 2027 World Cup.
The veteran opener responded in style, smashing 138 from just 110 deliveries during India's chase of 388 at Lord's. His innings, featuring 17 fours and five sixes, made him the first Indian batter to score an ODI century at the iconic venue, although India eventually fell 27 runs short and lost the series 2-1.
Following the match, captain Shubman Gill said Rohit had not informed the team about any retirement plans, while Rohit himself insisted his only focus was on scoring runs for India.
Sharing his views on the situation, Kaif said Rohit's recent actions suggest he has no intention of stepping away voluntarily.
"Yes, one thing has become clear," Kaif said during a discussion. "Rohit Sharma is effectively saying, 'If I am not playing well, you take the call yourselves. Drop me.'
"The fact that he has not stepped away or announced his retirement, the enthusiasm he is showing, the way he is approaching his batting and the hundred he scored at Lord's — all of this shows that he is now focused entirely on playing. Whatever the selectors want to do after that is up to them. Perhaps earlier there was an attempt to convince him about certain things internally. The problem at the moment is that it is difficult to understand who stands where. There is a lot of confusion," Kaif said on his YouTube channel.
Kaif also questioned the lack of clarity from the team management regarding Rohit's long-term future. While coaches have repeatedly backed the opener to play with freedom, the former India batter believes the management should clearly state whether Rohit remains part of its World Cup plans.
"At times, members of the coaching staff come out and say, 'We have given Rohit Sharma complete freedom to play his natural game.' But ******* ody has yet made a clear statement saying, 'Ro
3 months ago
Maria O'Neill's point with just 15 seconds remaining won the All-Ireland Junior Football Championship for Antrim in a dramatic final against Carlow at Croke Park.
After had got on Carlow on level-terms in the closing stages through Megan Townsend's goal, McCann struck the decisive blow late on for secure a 1-13 to 2-9 win for the Saffrons.
Antrim made a perfect start in Dublin when Theresa Mallon capitalised on a poor pass from goalkeeper Nicole Hanley to net inside two minutes.
The Saffrons extended their advantage thanks to Orlaith Prenter, O'Neill and Aine Tubridy, but Carlow, in their first All-Ireland decider, fought back and trailed by 1-5 to 0-6 at the break.
Cliodhna Ni She's sixth point of the day further reduced Antrim's lead, but the Ulster county responded through Prenter and Bronagh Devlin.
#point #Football
After had got on Carlow on level-terms in the closing stages through Megan Townsend's goal, McCann struck the decisive blow late on for secure a 1-13 to 2-9 win for the Saffrons.
Antrim made a perfect start in Dublin when Theresa Mallon capitalised on a poor pass from goalkeeper Nicole Hanley to net inside two minutes.
The Saffrons extended their advantage thanks to Orlaith Prenter, O'Neill and Aine Tubridy, but Carlow, in their first All-Ireland decider, fought back and trailed by 1-5 to 0-6 at the break.
Cliodhna Ni She's sixth point of the day further reduced Antrim's lead, but the Ulster county responded through Prenter and Bronagh Devlin.
#point #Football
3 months ago
Sri Lanka Women produced a remarkable comeback to clinch their first bilateral ODI series victory over Pakistan Women in 24 years, sealing a 2-1 triumph with a dominant eight-wicket win in the series decider at Hambantota on Tuesday. After dropping the opening ODI, the hosts responded emphatically by chasing down a record target in the second match before delivering a clinical all-round performance in the third to end Pakistan's run of four consecutive ODI series wins over Sri Lanka. It was also Sri Lanka's first bilateral ODI series triumph over Pakistan since 2002.
Pakistan had drawn first blood in the series with a five-wicket victory after restricting Sri Lanka to 210/9 in the opener. However, Sri Lanka responded in spectacular fashion in the second ODI, completing their highest successful run chase in women's ODIs. Vishmi Gunaratne smashed 123, while Harshitha Samarawickrama remained unbeaten on 100 as the hosts chased down 274 with eight wickets in hand to level the series.
That momentum carried into the decider, where Sri Lanka outplayed Pakistan in every department to complete a memorable turnaround.
Asked to bat first, Pakistan suffered a nightmare start as Chetana Vimukthi ripped through the top order in just the second over. The visitors slumped to 10/3, putting themselves under immediate pressure. Gull Feroza and Muneeba Ali steadied the innings with a 68-run partnership, but Sri Lanka captain Chamari Athapaththu broke the stand by dismissing Feroza for 40.
Pakistan's middle order failed to capitalise as another collapse followed. From 110/4, the visitors slipped to 146/7 before captain Fatima Sana played a fighting knock of 41 to lift her side to 187 all out in 40 overs. Athapaththu and Kavisha Dilhari starred with the ball, claiming three wickets each to keep Pakistan below the 200-run mark.
Needing 188 for victory, Sri Lanka lost Vishmi Gunaratne early after she had helped provide another positive start. Captain Chamari Athapaththu quickly seized control, attacking Pakistan's bowlers with trademark aggression. She struck three boundaries and a six in one over before bringing up the 30th fifty-plus score of her ODI career, ensuring Sri Lanka stayed comfortably ahead of the required rate.
Although Athapaththu departed after scoring 52, Harshitha Samarawickrama continued her excellent form, remaining unbeaten on 71, while Hasini Perera provided steady support in an unbroken partnership that guided Sri Lanka home with 76 **** to spare.
Athapaththu's all-round display earned her the Player of the Match award after contributing both with the bat and ball in the series decider. Harshitha Samarawickrama, meanwhile, was named Player of the Series after scoring 173 runs across three matches while being dismissed only once.
The victory marked a significant milestone for Sri Lanka Women's cricket, ending a 24-year wait for an ODI series win over Pakistan and showcasing the team's growing consistency in the 50-over form
Pakistan had drawn first blood in the series with a five-wicket victory after restricting Sri Lanka to 210/9 in the opener. However, Sri Lanka responded in spectacular fashion in the second ODI, completing their highest successful run chase in women's ODIs. Vishmi Gunaratne smashed 123, while Harshitha Samarawickrama remained unbeaten on 100 as the hosts chased down 274 with eight wickets in hand to level the series.
That momentum carried into the decider, where Sri Lanka outplayed Pakistan in every department to complete a memorable turnaround.
Asked to bat first, Pakistan suffered a nightmare start as Chetana Vimukthi ripped through the top order in just the second over. The visitors slumped to 10/3, putting themselves under immediate pressure. Gull Feroza and Muneeba Ali steadied the innings with a 68-run partnership, but Sri Lanka captain Chamari Athapaththu broke the stand by dismissing Feroza for 40.
Pakistan's middle order failed to capitalise as another collapse followed. From 110/4, the visitors slipped to 146/7 before captain Fatima Sana played a fighting knock of 41 to lift her side to 187 all out in 40 overs. Athapaththu and Kavisha Dilhari starred with the ball, claiming three wickets each to keep Pakistan below the 200-run mark.
Needing 188 for victory, Sri Lanka lost Vishmi Gunaratne early after she had helped provide another positive start. Captain Chamari Athapaththu quickly seized control, attacking Pakistan's bowlers with trademark aggression. She struck three boundaries and a six in one over before bringing up the 30th fifty-plus score of her ODI career, ensuring Sri Lanka stayed comfortably ahead of the required rate.
Although Athapaththu departed after scoring 52, Harshitha Samarawickrama continued her excellent form, remaining unbeaten on 71, while Hasini Perera provided steady support in an unbroken partnership that guided Sri Lanka home with 76 **** to spare.
Athapaththu's all-round display earned her the Player of the Match award after contributing both with the bat and ball in the series decider. Harshitha Samarawickrama, meanwhile, was named Player of the Series after scoring 173 runs across three matches while being dismissed only once.
The victory marked a significant milestone for Sri Lanka Women's cricket, ending a 24-year wait for an ODI series win over Pakistan and showcasing the team's growing consistency in the 50-over form
3 months ago
Gary Kelly came from behind in dramatic style to beat 17 year-old Liam Hill from Tonga and make it three wins to start his campaign for a third Commonwealth Games medal.
Hill's aggressive style saw him cruise to 9-6 win in the opening set against an out of sorts Kelly but the Ballymoney man found his form to open up a 5-0 lead in the second set.
However, Hill would mount a comeback closing to within a shot heading to the final end.
Holding shot, that would have given him the game, Hill made a tactical error with his final bowl as he committed a 30 second shot clock violation.
It opened the door for Kelly but he still had a difficult shot to walk through it but he produced a superb bowl to trail the jack into the ditch, to take the set 7-4 and set up a one-end decider.
#kelly #hill #liam
Hill's aggressive style saw him cruise to 9-6 win in the opening set against an out of sorts Kelly but the Ballymoney man found his form to open up a 5-0 lead in the second set.
However, Hill would mount a comeback closing to within a shot heading to the final end.
Holding shot, that would have given him the game, Hill made a tactical error with his final bowl as he committed a 30 second shot clock violation.
It opened the door for Kelly but he still had a difficult shot to walk through it but he produced a superb bowl to trail the jack into the ditch, to take the set 7-4 and set up a one-end decider.
#kelly #hill #liam
3 months ago
Rangers intend to contest a four-match touchline ban given to manager Derek McInnes for describing as "disgusting" the decision to award Celtic a late penalty at Motherwell in May.
The comments, made at the end of last season when McInnes was in charge of Hearts, related to a stoppage-time spot-kick for handball that was converted by Kelechi Iheanacho.
Celtic's 3-2 victory at Fir Park on 13 May kept them one point behind Hearts, who they beat to the **** le a few days later in a final-day decider.
Responding to the Scottish FA penalty, which is an immediate three-game ban with one suspended until the end of the season, Rangers say the remarks were "directed at the decision, rather than representing any broader criticism of officials".
Speaking to Sky Sports after a win against Falkirk at Tynecastle the same night, McInnes said: "When you heard Celtic got a 96th-minute penalty that was going to VAR and they were checking it, you just **** ume what's happened is they get the penalty.
#mcinnes #rangers #decision #motherwell
The comments, made at the end of last season when McInnes was in charge of Hearts, related to a stoppage-time spot-kick for handball that was converted by Kelechi Iheanacho.
Celtic's 3-2 victory at Fir Park on 13 May kept them one point behind Hearts, who they beat to the **** le a few days later in a final-day decider.
Responding to the Scottish FA penalty, which is an immediate three-game ban with one suspended until the end of the season, Rangers say the remarks were "directed at the decision, rather than representing any broader criticism of officials".
Speaking to Sky Sports after a win against Falkirk at Tynecastle the same night, McInnes said: "When you heard Celtic got a 96th-minute penalty that was going to VAR and they were checking it, you just **** ume what's happened is they get the penalty.
#mcinnes #rangers #decision #motherwell
3 months ago
Derby County have signed Filip Bilbija on a three-year deal after the attacking midfielder left Paderborn following their promotion to the German Bundesliga.
The 26-year-old played a crucial role in returning Paderborn to the top flight, scoring the equaliser in the second leg of their play-off decider against Wolfsburg which was eventually won in extra time.
Bilbija scored 17 goals across all competitions last season, in what was the most prolific showing on his career to date after netting nine goals in each of his previous two campaigns.
The German forward, who came through at Ingolstadt and spent a season with Hamburg SV before joining Paderborn in the summer of 2023, had been linked with a move to Werder Bremen when his contract was running down last season.
Bilbija has already joined up with his new Rams team-mates on their pre-season camp in Austria.
#county
The 26-year-old played a crucial role in returning Paderborn to the top flight, scoring the equaliser in the second leg of their play-off decider against Wolfsburg which was eventually won in extra time.
Bilbija scored 17 goals across all competitions last season, in what was the most prolific showing on his career to date after netting nine goals in each of his previous two campaigns.
The German forward, who came through at Ingolstadt and spent a season with Hamburg SV before joining Paderborn in the summer of 2023, had been linked with a move to Werder Bremen when his contract was running down last season.
Bilbija has already joined up with his new Rams team-mates on their pre-season camp in Austria.
#county
3 months ago
England's 2-1 ODI series triumph over India has been rewarded in the latest ICC Men's ODI Batting Rankings, with veteran batter Joe Root returning to the top 10 after a sensational series in which he remained unbeaten throughout.
Root, who was named Player of the Series, produced unbeaten scores of 76, 99 and 74 to anchor England's first bilateral ODI series victory over India since 2018. His consistency has lifted him four places to No. 8 in the ICC rankings, marking his return to the top 10 for the first time since 2020.
England opener Ben Duckett was another major beneficiary after his record-breaking 141 in the third ODI at Lord's. The left-hander jumped 11 places to joint-19th, with his match-winning knock becoming the highest individual score in a Men's ODI at the iconic venue, according to an ICC media release.
Despite India losing the series, several Indian batters made gains in the latest rankings following strong individual performances.
Rohit Sharma's magnificent 138 in the Lord's decider helped him reduce the gap on Virat Kohli to just nine rating points. Rohit remains fourth in the ODI batting rankings, while Kohli occupies third. India captain Shubman Gill continues to hold the No. 2 position and is just one rating point behind New Zealand's Daryl Mitchell, who remains the world's top-ranked ODI batter with 802 rating points.
Middle-order batter Shreyas Iyer also climbed two places to 13th after scoring a fighting 66 in the second ODI at Cardiff.
Rank
Player
#root #player #rohit
Root, who was named Player of the Series, produced unbeaten scores of 76, 99 and 74 to anchor England's first bilateral ODI series victory over India since 2018. His consistency has lifted him four places to No. 8 in the ICC rankings, marking his return to the top 10 for the first time since 2020.
England opener Ben Duckett was another major beneficiary after his record-breaking 141 in the third ODI at Lord's. The left-hander jumped 11 places to joint-19th, with his match-winning knock becoming the highest individual score in a Men's ODI at the iconic venue, according to an ICC media release.
Despite India losing the series, several Indian batters made gains in the latest rankings following strong individual performances.
Rohit Sharma's magnificent 138 in the Lord's decider helped him reduce the gap on Virat Kohli to just nine rating points. Rohit remains fourth in the ODI batting rankings, while Kohli occupies third. India captain Shubman Gill continues to hold the No. 2 position and is just one rating point behind New Zealand's Daryl Mitchell, who remains the world's top-ranked ODI batter with 802 rating points.
Middle-order batter Shreyas Iyer also climbed two places to 13th after scoring a fighting 66 in the second ODI at Cardiff.
Rank
Player
#root #player #rohit
3 months ago
Didier Deschamps has left his post as France manager with the record of most FIFA World Cup matches.
The former Juventus captain spent 14 years in charge of Les Bleus, his crowning glory being the team's World Cup win in 2018.
Deschamps' France reached the final again four years later, as well the Euro 2016 decider, but didn't win either match, leaving one of the most star-studded sides of all time with just one trophy.
Nonetheless, the 57-year-old's longevity was impressive and his name will go down in the record books as one of the few players to win the greatest trophy in international as both a player and a manager.
We've ranked the head coaches who managed more games at the World Cup than anyone else below.
#World #france #years #trophy
The former Juventus captain spent 14 years in charge of Les Bleus, his crowning glory being the team's World Cup win in 2018.
Deschamps' France reached the final again four years later, as well the Euro 2016 decider, but didn't win either match, leaving one of the most star-studded sides of all time with just one trophy.
Nonetheless, the 57-year-old's longevity was impressive and his name will go down in the record books as one of the few players to win the greatest trophy in international as both a player and a manager.
We've ranked the head coaches who managed more games at the World Cup than anyone else below.
#World #france #years #trophy
