1 day ago
Ariana Grande and Jonathan Bailey's planned reunion will no longer happen after their exits from a new project. The two stars previously appeared together in the blockbuster Wicked franchise, playing Glinda and Prince Fiyero Tigelaar, respectively.
The London revival of the popular musical Sunday in the Park With George has been canceled following Grande and Bailey's exits, according to Variety. The planned 2027 production will no longer proceed as previously thought.
"Empire Street Productions will retain the rights with a view to presenting the production in 2028. Further details will be announced in due course."
The revival was set to take place at London's Barbican Centre next summer. Ariana Grande was supposed to play both Dot and Marie. Bailey was set to star opposite her as George Seurat.
Moving forward, Ariana Grande will be busy with her upcoming The Eternal Sunshine Tour. She will also appear on the big screen in a new movie. The 33-year-old will feature alongside Robert De Niro and Ben Stiller in the comedy Focker-In-Law. It's set to hit theaters on November 25, 2026. Despite her plans to take a break, Grande will appear in the promotional events for the movie.
#planned #previously
The London revival of the popular musical Sunday in the Park With George has been canceled following Grande and Bailey's exits, according to Variety. The planned 2027 production will no longer proceed as previously thought.
"Empire Street Productions will retain the rights with a view to presenting the production in 2028. Further details will be announced in due course."
The revival was set to take place at London's Barbican Centre next summer. Ariana Grande was supposed to play both Dot and Marie. Bailey was set to star opposite her as George Seurat.
Moving forward, Ariana Grande will be busy with her upcoming The Eternal Sunshine Tour. She will also appear on the big screen in a new movie. The 33-year-old will feature alongside Robert De Niro and Ben Stiller in the comedy Focker-In-Law. It's set to hit theaters on November 25, 2026. Despite her plans to take a break, Grande will appear in the promotional events for the movie.
#planned #previously
3 days ago
India is all set to take on Afghanistan in the opening T20I at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Sunday, September 13.
Shreyas Iyer's side looking to build momentum after a mixed white-ball summer that included series defeats in Ireland and England.
Meanwhile, Afghanistan will be hoping to avenge defeat in the one-off Test at Mullanpur earlier this year. Ibrahim Zadran's side has the perfectly volatile combination of a spin-heavy bowling attack and a batting lineup that's still trying to figure out their place.
With Jasprit **** rah and Washington Sundar also cleared just this week, India will be keen to prepare mentally for the upcoming Asian Games and New Zealand. The venue will also play a big part in the match.
Arun Jaitley Stadium has hosted only a handful of T20Is despite its status as one of India's most-used grounds across formats, and their most recent appearance produced one of the highest totals ever recorded there when India piled up 209 against Namibia in February 2026.
#september
Shreyas Iyer's side looking to build momentum after a mixed white-ball summer that included series defeats in Ireland and England.
Meanwhile, Afghanistan will be hoping to avenge defeat in the one-off Test at Mullanpur earlier this year. Ibrahim Zadran's side has the perfectly volatile combination of a spin-heavy bowling attack and a batting lineup that's still trying to figure out their place.
With Jasprit **** rah and Washington Sundar also cleared just this week, India will be keen to prepare mentally for the upcoming Asian Games and New Zealand. The venue will also play a big part in the match.
Arun Jaitley Stadium has hosted only a handful of T20Is despite its status as one of India's most-used grounds across formats, and their most recent appearance produced one of the highest totals ever recorded there when India piled up 209 against Namibia in February 2026.
#september
3 days 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
3 days 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
4 days 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
7 days ago
NFL Expert Predicts Patriots Regression After Super Bowl Run originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The New England Patriots transformed themselves from a rebuilding team into the AFC champion during Mike Vrabel's first season as head coach.
One national NFL expert does not expect them to reproduce that success in 2026.
Sporting News' Vinnie Iyer predicted New England will finish 10-7, surrender the AFC East to the Buffalo Bills and exit the playoffs in the divisional round.
That outcome would still represent a strong season for a team led by 24-year-old quarterback Drake Maye. It also would feel disappointing after the Patriots came within one victory of winning another Super Bowl.
#super #bowl #england #predicts
The New England Patriots transformed themselves from a rebuilding team into the AFC champion during Mike Vrabel's first season as head coach.
One national NFL expert does not expect them to reproduce that success in 2026.
Sporting News' Vinnie Iyer predicted New England will finish 10-7, surrender the AFC East to the Buffalo Bills and exit the playoffs in the divisional round.
That outcome would still represent a strong season for a team led by 24-year-old quarterback Drake Maye. It also would feel disappointing after the Patriots came within one victory of winning another Super Bowl.
#super #bowl #england #predicts
8 days ago
Bengaluru: The BCCI's decision to send a full-strength squad to the Asian Games later this month has brought one name into focus - Jasprit ***** rah. The premier India pacer has not played for India since the second ODI against England in Cardiff in July, when he limped off after suffering an impact injury to his left knee. He has since been undergoing rehabilitation and is part of India's squad for the three-match T20I series against Afghanistan, although his participation is subject to fitness clearance.
With the Asian Games in ***** an beginning later this month, former India captain Sunil Gavaskar believes the tournament could provide ***** rah with valuable game time ahead of India's next major ***** ignment, the New Zealand tour.
The Asian Games, then, is the perfect opportunity for ***** rah to ease back into competitive cricket before that series. "There's a fair gap between the Asian Games and the New Zealand series, so playing ***** rah in the Asian Games is actually a good idea because he has to get some bowling under his belt. In Sri Lanka, we heard Mohammad Siraj was not quite in rhythm because he hadn't played enough in competitive matches. The bowlers need to get some overs and ***** rah getting them is very essential," Gavaskar said.
Although Shreyas Iyer has lost six of the seven T20Is he has led India in this year, Sunil Gavaskar backed him. "He's very experienced as a captain, having led Kolkata Knight Riders, Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings. I don't think there should be any pressure on him at the Asian Games. "
'Asian Games ***** le defence won't be easy'
Gavaskar was quick to add that the ***** le defence won't be an easy ride for India. "It's going to be tough because it's a T20 tournament. Bangladesh are in form, Pakistan are always dangerous and Sri Lanka are a terrific team, not to forget Afghanistan, so it's not going to be easy at all," he said. Gavaskar pointed out that the Asian Games will be a huge learning experience for Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. "To be able to meet sportspersons from other sports from across Asia can be an absolute treat. For Sooryavanshi, I hope it turns out to be even more inspirational because he will get to rub shoulders with athletes who he's looked up to."
(This interaction was facilitated by Sony Sports Network)
#asian #easy #sunil #zealand
With the Asian Games in ***** an beginning later this month, former India captain Sunil Gavaskar believes the tournament could provide ***** rah with valuable game time ahead of India's next major ***** ignment, the New Zealand tour.
The Asian Games, then, is the perfect opportunity for ***** rah to ease back into competitive cricket before that series. "There's a fair gap between the Asian Games and the New Zealand series, so playing ***** rah in the Asian Games is actually a good idea because he has to get some bowling under his belt. In Sri Lanka, we heard Mohammad Siraj was not quite in rhythm because he hadn't played enough in competitive matches. The bowlers need to get some overs and ***** rah getting them is very essential," Gavaskar said.
Although Shreyas Iyer has lost six of the seven T20Is he has led India in this year, Sunil Gavaskar backed him. "He's very experienced as a captain, having led Kolkata Knight Riders, Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings. I don't think there should be any pressure on him at the Asian Games. "
'Asian Games ***** le defence won't be easy'
Gavaskar was quick to add that the ***** le defence won't be an easy ride for India. "It's going to be tough because it's a T20 tournament. Bangladesh are in form, Pakistan are always dangerous and Sri Lanka are a terrific team, not to forget Afghanistan, so it's not going to be easy at all," he said. Gavaskar pointed out that the Asian Games will be a huge learning experience for Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. "To be able to meet sportspersons from other sports from across Asia can be an absolute treat. For Sooryavanshi, I hope it turns out to be even more inspirational because he will get to rub shoulders with athletes who he's looked up to."
(This interaction was facilitated by Sony Sports Network)
#asian #easy #sunil #zealand
12 days ago
NEW DELHI: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is taking a long-term view of Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's astonishing rise, with secretary Devajit Saikia revealing that the board is closely monitoring the 15-year-old and wants to ensure his early success translates into a long and distinguished international career.
Sooryavanshi's rapid emergence was among the matters discussed at Thursday's high-level BCCI review meeting in Mumbai, which was attended by Saikia, India Test and ODI captain Shubman Gill, T20I captain Shreyas Iyer, head coach Gautam Gambhir, Centre of Excellence (CoE) head VVS Laxman and other senior officials.
The teenager has already gone from being an IPL sensation to becoming India's youngest men's international debutant, and the BCCI is now determined to ensure that his development is handled carefully rather than allowing the weight of expectation to derail his progress.
"We want Vaibhav Sooryavanshi or any player of his stature to continue and serve like Sachin Tendulkar did for the country or other players who in the past became legends," Saikia said.
"So we look at Vaibhav in a very serious manner. He's monitored from every angle and every step he is taking forward in his international career. The BCCI is taking a very close look at his future."
Saikia made it clear that the BCCI's objective is not simply to maximise Sooryavanshi's immediate impact but to build a career that can last for years.
"You see, the BCCI can be proud that we are promoting a player of the age of 15 years who is already making his mark in the international scenario and we are very cautious that every right step he should take forward so that it should not be a one series or one year wonder," he said.
The comparison with Tendulkar was particularly significant. Like Sooryavanshi, Tendulkar was thrust into the international spotlight as a teenager before going on to enjoy one of the longest and most successful careers in the history of the game.
The BCCI secretary stressed that Sooryavanshi's progress would be closely tracked at every stage.
"We want Vaibhav's relevance, or any player of his stature, to continue and serve as Sachin Tendulkar did for the country or other players who in the past became legends," Saikia said.
The teenager's rapid rise has given the board plenty of reason for optimism. He was India's youngest-ever men's international debutant after earning his maiden call-up following a sensational IPL 2026 campaign with Rajasthan Royals.
Sooryavanshi scored 776 runs in 16 matches at a strike rate of 237.30, including a century and five fifties, while his 72 sixes set an IPL record for a single season. He subsequently won several awards, including the Orange Cap, Most Valuable Player, Emerging Player, Super Striker and Super Sixes honours.
He also made an immediate impact for India against Zimbabwe, scoring 151 runs in three matches as India completed a 3-0 sweep and claimed his maiden Player of th
Sooryavanshi's rapid emergence was among the matters discussed at Thursday's high-level BCCI review meeting in Mumbai, which was attended by Saikia, India Test and ODI captain Shubman Gill, T20I captain Shreyas Iyer, head coach Gautam Gambhir, Centre of Excellence (CoE) head VVS Laxman and other senior officials.
The teenager has already gone from being an IPL sensation to becoming India's youngest men's international debutant, and the BCCI is now determined to ensure that his development is handled carefully rather than allowing the weight of expectation to derail his progress.
"We want Vaibhav Sooryavanshi or any player of his stature to continue and serve like Sachin Tendulkar did for the country or other players who in the past became legends," Saikia said.
"So we look at Vaibhav in a very serious manner. He's monitored from every angle and every step he is taking forward in his international career. The BCCI is taking a very close look at his future."
Saikia made it clear that the BCCI's objective is not simply to maximise Sooryavanshi's immediate impact but to build a career that can last for years.
"You see, the BCCI can be proud that we are promoting a player of the age of 15 years who is already making his mark in the international scenario and we are very cautious that every right step he should take forward so that it should not be a one series or one year wonder," he said.
The comparison with Tendulkar was particularly significant. Like Sooryavanshi, Tendulkar was thrust into the international spotlight as a teenager before going on to enjoy one of the longest and most successful careers in the history of the game.
The BCCI secretary stressed that Sooryavanshi's progress would be closely tracked at every stage.
"We want Vaibhav's relevance, or any player of his stature, to continue and serve as Sachin Tendulkar did for the country or other players who in the past became legends," Saikia said.
The teenager's rapid rise has given the board plenty of reason for optimism. He was India's youngest-ever men's international debutant after earning his maiden call-up following a sensational IPL 2026 campaign with Rajasthan Royals.
Sooryavanshi scored 776 runs in 16 matches at a strike rate of 237.30, including a century and five fifties, while his 72 sixes set an IPL record for a single season. He subsequently won several awards, including the Orange Cap, Most Valuable Player, Emerging Player, Super Striker and Super Sixes honours.
He also made an immediate impact for India against Zimbabwe, scoring 151 runs in three matches as India completed a 3-0 sweep and claimed his maiden Player of th
12 days ago
NEW DELHI: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has drawn up a roadmap to address India's recent overseas setbacks, mounting player injuries and preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup, with secretary Devajit Saikia revealing details of Thursday's high-level review meeting in Mumbai.
The meeting, attended by head coach Gautam Gambhir, Test and ODI captain Shubman Gill, T20I captain Shreyas Iyer and Centre of Excellence director VVS Laxman, reviewed India's recent tours of Ireland and England as well as the team's preparations for the next phase of the international calendar.
Chief selector Ajit Agarkar was absent, but Saikia said there was no controversy behind his non-participation and insisted no discussion took place about his future.
Saikia strongly rejected suggestions of a communication gap between the team management and the Centre of Excellence, particularly after several high-profile injury setbacks.
"Everybody is on the same page. BCCI is working in a very well like a well oiled engine," Saikia told reporters.
"There is proper coordination amongst all the wings of BCCI, whether it is women's teams committees or their technical staff or their coaches, vis-a-vis the COE, vis-a-vis the Indian men's team's coaching staff and the head coach. There is no difficulty in the coordination, everything is moving in the right direction."
However, he admitted that the frequency of injuries remains a major concern and said the board intends to address it through changes to the next Future Tours Programme (FTP).
"The only challenge which we are facing is that there are too many matches in the year and that is why in the next FTP we will do certain things, we will take certain measures."
The proposed changes will particularly affect preparation for tours to SENA countries — South Africa, England, New Zealand and Australia.
"We have instructed our FTP persons who will be meeting very soon in various international forums that our FTP should be in such a way it should be scheduled that there is proper rest for the players as well as some kind of acclimatisation or some kind of friendly matches before any major series in SENA countries," Saikia said.
The comments come after India suffered a difficult run in overseas white-ball cricket, losing 0-2 to Ireland in the T20Is before a 1-4 defeat to England in the five-match series. India also lost the ODI series in England 1-2.
Saikia acknowledged India's shortcomings and said the review meeting focused on understanding why the team had struggled.
"We discussed (about) our team performed in England and Ireland and also about what we are going to do about the next one year. The road map has been prepared and we will be doing some exercises so that we have a very good performance in 2027 (ODI) World Cup," he said.
"Yes, we did not do well. We lost matches in Ireland and England, so we wanted to know what the reasons were. We have to do certain soul searching about that
The meeting, attended by head coach Gautam Gambhir, Test and ODI captain Shubman Gill, T20I captain Shreyas Iyer and Centre of Excellence director VVS Laxman, reviewed India's recent tours of Ireland and England as well as the team's preparations for the next phase of the international calendar.
Chief selector Ajit Agarkar was absent, but Saikia said there was no controversy behind his non-participation and insisted no discussion took place about his future.
Saikia strongly rejected suggestions of a communication gap between the team management and the Centre of Excellence, particularly after several high-profile injury setbacks.
"Everybody is on the same page. BCCI is working in a very well like a well oiled engine," Saikia told reporters.
"There is proper coordination amongst all the wings of BCCI, whether it is women's teams committees or their technical staff or their coaches, vis-a-vis the COE, vis-a-vis the Indian men's team's coaching staff and the head coach. There is no difficulty in the coordination, everything is moving in the right direction."
However, he admitted that the frequency of injuries remains a major concern and said the board intends to address it through changes to the next Future Tours Programme (FTP).
"The only challenge which we are facing is that there are too many matches in the year and that is why in the next FTP we will do certain things, we will take certain measures."
The proposed changes will particularly affect preparation for tours to SENA countries — South Africa, England, New Zealand and Australia.
"We have instructed our FTP persons who will be meeting very soon in various international forums that our FTP should be in such a way it should be scheduled that there is proper rest for the players as well as some kind of acclimatisation or some kind of friendly matches before any major series in SENA countries," Saikia said.
The comments come after India suffered a difficult run in overseas white-ball cricket, losing 0-2 to Ireland in the T20Is before a 1-4 defeat to England in the five-match series. India also lost the ODI series in England 1-2.
Saikia acknowledged India's shortcomings and said the review meeting focused on understanding why the team had struggled.
"We discussed (about) our team performed in England and Ireland and also about what we are going to do about the next one year. The road map has been prepared and we will be doing some exercises so that we have a very good performance in 2027 (ODI) World Cup," he said.
"Yes, we did not do well. We lost matches in Ireland and England, so we wanted to know what the reasons were. We have to do certain soul searching about that
12 days ago
NEW DELHI: BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia has pushed back against growing speculation over Rohit Sharma's ODI future, insisting that the former India captain is continuing to perform at a high level and questioning why his place in the side is being debated.
Speaking after a high-level Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) review meeting in Mumbai on Thursday, Saikia offered a firm defence of the 39-year-old, whose future has again become a major talking point with the 2027 ODI World Cup approaching.
"He is playing superbly in all the matches. So, what more do you want? In the last match, he scored 138 runs. So, why there is a speculation? So, I don't want to give fodder to the speculations," Saikia said.
His comments came amid reports that selectors had considered moving on from Rohit in their ODI plans, potentially leaving his participation in the 2027 World Cup in doubt.
The speculation intensified during India's ODI tour of England earlier this year, with reports suggesting the Lord's ODI could be Rohit's final appearance in an India shirt.
Instead, Rohit responded in characteristic fashion — with a match-defining performance.
He smashed 138 at Lord's, becoming the oldest Indian to score an ODI century at the iconic venue, although his effort came in a losing cause. The innings once again demonstrated why questions over his future have been accompanied by equally strong arguments for his retention.
Following the England tour, Rohit made it clear that the constant speculation did not concern him.
"If there's no noise, there's no fun. My job is inside; their job is outside. That's how I look at it," he had said. "The noise since I made my debut was there. And till the time I'm going to stay here, it's always going to be there. It doesn't really matter too much. What matters is what I do on the field. I want to try and contribute to the success of the team. That's all my focus is."
Rohit retired from Test cricket in 2025 and from T20Is in 2024, leaving ODI cricket as his only remaining international format.
The latest comments from Saikia came after a meeting attended by head coach Gautam Gambhir, ODI captain Shubman Gill, T20I captain Shreyas Iyer, BCCI president Mithun Manhas and Saikia.
The secretary had already backed Rohit before the Lord's match, saying on July 17: "Rohit is a regular member of the Indian ODI team, and he will continue to represent the country as long as he is in the scheme of things. In other words, the Lord's ODI won't be his last match."
Rohit's age remains an unavoidable part of the discussion. He will turn 40 in 2027, the year of the next ODI World Cup, and India will inevitably have to consider succession planning.
#speculation
Speaking after a high-level Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) review meeting in Mumbai on Thursday, Saikia offered a firm defence of the 39-year-old, whose future has again become a major talking point with the 2027 ODI World Cup approaching.
"He is playing superbly in all the matches. So, what more do you want? In the last match, he scored 138 runs. So, why there is a speculation? So, I don't want to give fodder to the speculations," Saikia said.
His comments came amid reports that selectors had considered moving on from Rohit in their ODI plans, potentially leaving his participation in the 2027 World Cup in doubt.
The speculation intensified during India's ODI tour of England earlier this year, with reports suggesting the Lord's ODI could be Rohit's final appearance in an India shirt.
Instead, Rohit responded in characteristic fashion — with a match-defining performance.
He smashed 138 at Lord's, becoming the oldest Indian to score an ODI century at the iconic venue, although his effort came in a losing cause. The innings once again demonstrated why questions over his future have been accompanied by equally strong arguments for his retention.
Following the England tour, Rohit made it clear that the constant speculation did not concern him.
"If there's no noise, there's no fun. My job is inside; their job is outside. That's how I look at it," he had said. "The noise since I made my debut was there. And till the time I'm going to stay here, it's always going to be there. It doesn't really matter too much. What matters is what I do on the field. I want to try and contribute to the success of the team. That's all my focus is."
Rohit retired from Test cricket in 2025 and from T20Is in 2024, leaving ODI cricket as his only remaining international format.
The latest comments from Saikia came after a meeting attended by head coach Gautam Gambhir, ODI captain Shubman Gill, T20I captain Shreyas Iyer, BCCI president Mithun Manhas and Saikia.
The secretary had already backed Rohit before the Lord's match, saying on July 17: "Rohit is a regular member of the Indian ODI team, and he will continue to represent the country as long as he is in the scheme of things. In other words, the Lord's ODI won't be his last match."
Rohit's age remains an unavoidable part of the discussion. He will turn 40 in 2027, the year of the next ODI World Cup, and India will inevitably have to consider succession planning.
#speculation
12 days ago
Former India batter and Director of Cricket at the BCCI's Centre of Excellence, VVS Laxman, is set to travel with the Indian men's team to ******* an and will take charge as head coach in the absence of Gautam Gambhir for the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya later this month.
Gautam Gambhir will remain with the senior side for India's home ODI series against the West Indies. The first ODI is scheduled to be played on September 27.
Laxman will be ******* isted by former India spinner Sunil Joshi, Hrishikesh Kanitkar and Subhadeep Ghosh, according to the list of coaches released by the Sports Ministry. The development was earlier reported by TimesofIndia.com in July.
Laxman has previous Asian Games experience, having coached the Indian men's team at the 2023 edition in Hangzhou, China, where India won the gold medal.
The cricket competition at the Asian Games will begin on September 24, with India scheduled to play its opening men's match on September 28. India will defend its men's T20 ******* le under captain Shreyas Iyer, with teenage batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi also part of the squad. The men's team will face the second-placed side from Group A, which comprises Afghanistan, ******* an and Nepal.
The Indian women's team will also enter the tournament as defending champions and will be led by Harmanpreet Kaur. The women's side will enter the competition at the quarterfinal stage and face hosts ******* an. Amol Muzumdar will continue as the head coach of the women's team, with bowling coach Aavishkar Salvi and fielding coach Munish Bali completing his support staff.
Indian men's team: Shreyas Iyer (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan, Shivam Dube, Tilak Varma, Nitish ******* ar Reddy, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Varun Chakravarthy, Ravi Bishnoi, Jasprit ******* rah, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.
Indian women's team: Harmanpreet Kaur (captain), Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma, Pratika Rawal, Deepti Sharma, Richa Ghosh, Gunalan Kamalini, Bharti Fulmali, Sree Charani, Renuka Thakur, Kranti Gaud, Arundhati Reddy, Shreyanka Patil, Radha Yadav, Nandani Sharma.
#coach
Gautam Gambhir will remain with the senior side for India's home ODI series against the West Indies. The first ODI is scheduled to be played on September 27.
Laxman will be ******* isted by former India spinner Sunil Joshi, Hrishikesh Kanitkar and Subhadeep Ghosh, according to the list of coaches released by the Sports Ministry. The development was earlier reported by TimesofIndia.com in July.
Laxman has previous Asian Games experience, having coached the Indian men's team at the 2023 edition in Hangzhou, China, where India won the gold medal.
The cricket competition at the Asian Games will begin on September 24, with India scheduled to play its opening men's match on September 28. India will defend its men's T20 ******* le under captain Shreyas Iyer, with teenage batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi also part of the squad. The men's team will face the second-placed side from Group A, which comprises Afghanistan, ******* an and Nepal.
The Indian women's team will also enter the tournament as defending champions and will be led by Harmanpreet Kaur. The women's side will enter the competition at the quarterfinal stage and face hosts ******* an. Amol Muzumdar will continue as the head coach of the women's team, with bowling coach Aavishkar Salvi and fielding coach Munish Bali completing his support staff.
Indian men's team: Shreyas Iyer (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan, Shivam Dube, Tilak Varma, Nitish ******* ar Reddy, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Varun Chakravarthy, Ravi Bishnoi, Jasprit ******* rah, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.
Indian women's team: Harmanpreet Kaur (captain), Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma, Pratika Rawal, Deepti Sharma, Richa Ghosh, Gunalan Kamalini, Bharti Fulmali, Sree Charani, Renuka Thakur, Kranti Gaud, Arundhati Reddy, Shreyanka Patil, Radha Yadav, Nandani Sharma.
#coach
13 days ago
Mumbai/New Delhi: The future of Rohit Sharma and the shape of India's ODI team for the next World Cup cycle are set to dominate discussions when the BCCI's top brass meets in Mumbai on Thursday for a wide-ranging performance review.
While recent defeats in Ireland, England and Sri Lanka will be ***** sed, board officials are understood to be more concerned about the lack of a clearly defined ODI roadmap at a time when preparations for the 2027 World Cup should be taking shape.
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia, president Mithun Manhas, head coach Gautam Gambhir, chief selector Ajit Agarkar and Centre of Excellence chief VVS Laxman will attend the meeting, with ODI and Test captain Shubman Gill and T20I skipper Shreyas Iyer also expected to be present.
At the centre of the discussions lies the most sensitive issue facing Indian cricket: Rohit's future. Though there is immense respect for the veteran opener's stature and achievements, selectors and members of the team management are increasingly aware of the need to prepare for a post-Rohit era.
According to sources, one option under consideration is to evaluate Rohit's role on a series-by-series basis rather than committing to a long-term plan through the entire World Cup cycle.
"It's very tough on a young captain like Shubman Gill when there is no clear direction. The dressing-room environment in the ODI team hasn't been the best, especially when it comes to dealing with stalwarts," a BCCI source said.
The uncertainty around Rohit reflects a broader concern. Of India's three national teams, the ODI side is regarded as the least settled. Injuries and workload management have prevented selectors from identifying a stable core, leaving several key positions unresolved.
The fast-bowling allrounder's role remains a particular headache. Hardik Pandya continues on a managed workload programme after recurring fitness issues, while Nitish ***** ar Reddy is yet to receive full clearance following rehabilitation.
"Hardik, at the moment, has been cleared to bowl six overs in a day. Reddy is still to clear his fitness tests. The ODI team doesn't have even half of the core ODI team ready. It has to be a joint effort between the CoE and the team management to zero in on players and formulate a roadmap to get them all on the park as soon as possible," the source said.
The review was initially planned after the Ireland and England tours but was postponed because of the subsequent Sri Lanka ***** ignment. It will now cover India's performances across multiple tours, including Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka.
India's 2-0 T20I series defeat in Ireland and the 4-0 drubbing in England raised alarm bells, with the 125-run loss at Nottingham viewed internally as one of the team's poorest performances in recent years. Gill's ODI side also lost the England series 2-1.
However, officials insist the exercise will focus on solutions rather than ***** igning blame, with particular emphasis on recurri
While recent defeats in Ireland, England and Sri Lanka will be ***** sed, board officials are understood to be more concerned about the lack of a clearly defined ODI roadmap at a time when preparations for the 2027 World Cup should be taking shape.
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia, president Mithun Manhas, head coach Gautam Gambhir, chief selector Ajit Agarkar and Centre of Excellence chief VVS Laxman will attend the meeting, with ODI and Test captain Shubman Gill and T20I skipper Shreyas Iyer also expected to be present.
At the centre of the discussions lies the most sensitive issue facing Indian cricket: Rohit's future. Though there is immense respect for the veteran opener's stature and achievements, selectors and members of the team management are increasingly aware of the need to prepare for a post-Rohit era.
According to sources, one option under consideration is to evaluate Rohit's role on a series-by-series basis rather than committing to a long-term plan through the entire World Cup cycle.
"It's very tough on a young captain like Shubman Gill when there is no clear direction. The dressing-room environment in the ODI team hasn't been the best, especially when it comes to dealing with stalwarts," a BCCI source said.
The uncertainty around Rohit reflects a broader concern. Of India's three national teams, the ODI side is regarded as the least settled. Injuries and workload management have prevented selectors from identifying a stable core, leaving several key positions unresolved.
The fast-bowling allrounder's role remains a particular headache. Hardik Pandya continues on a managed workload programme after recurring fitness issues, while Nitish ***** ar Reddy is yet to receive full clearance following rehabilitation.
"Hardik, at the moment, has been cleared to bowl six overs in a day. Reddy is still to clear his fitness tests. The ODI team doesn't have even half of the core ODI team ready. It has to be a joint effort between the CoE and the team management to zero in on players and formulate a roadmap to get them all on the park as soon as possible," the source said.
The review was initially planned after the Ireland and England tours but was postponed because of the subsequent Sri Lanka ***** ignment. It will now cover India's performances across multiple tours, including Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka.
India's 2-0 T20I series defeat in Ireland and the 4-0 drubbing in England raised alarm bells, with the 125-run loss at Nottingham viewed internally as one of the team's poorest performances in recent years. Gill's ODI side also lost the England series 2-1.
However, officials insist the exercise will focus on solutions rather than ***** igning blame, with particular emphasis on recurri
17 days ago
New Delhi: India's team management and selectors are working on backups for the middle order ahead of the ODI World Cup next year. TOI has learnt that Tilak Varma's name has come up as a potential backup option for Shreyas Iyer in the top six of the batting lineup.
Tilak, being a left-handed batter, is seen as someone who can break the monotony of right-handers in the batting lineup. Tilak has been asked to work on his bowling since it is believed that his off-breaks have a lot of potential. The team management, in fact, has flagged the dearth of bowling options in the top order, citing it as a reason for extra pressure on the lower order and the bowlers.
The planning for the ODI World Cup will only begin in earnest when India reach New Zealand in October, since most of the first-choice players will not be available for the ODI series against West Indies at home from September 27. A full-strength T20 team is also scheduled to travel to ****** an for the Asian Games at the same time.
"Head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Shubman Gill feel there isn't any backup ready for the middle order. With Hardik Pandya and Nitish ****** ar Reddy being ****** e to injuries, they want someone in the top order who can at least chip in with four overs in an ODI," a BCCI source said.
Over the last year, the team management has been compelled to play either Washington Sundar or Axar Patel at No. 5 or No. 6 to balance the playing XI. In the last series in England, Ishan Kishan was sent in ahead of vice-captain Iyer.
"The team has to be prepared for conditions in South Africa in the World Cup. Iyer got injured in Australia and his game against pace and bounce is untested of late. The team already has two ageing players in Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. They are having niggles as well. KL Rahul too will be over 35 by the time the World Cup comes around. Ravindra Jadeja isn't a certainty either. The fielding of the team has suffered due to fitness issues. The team management feels that they need younger backups ready," the source said.
The selectors, it is learnt, are not comfortable with playing batters out of position. Last year, Ruturaj Gaikwad was played at No. 4 and scored a hundred against South Africa in Raipur. But he has not been picked in the ODI team since.
"Gaikwad was picked as backup opener since Gill was injured. The team management feels Tilak could have been tried in that place. That's why they don't want to rush Devdutt Padikkal in the ODI setup because he found his calling in white-ball cricket while opening the batting," the source said.
The team for the West Indies series, however, will be an anomaly since Iyer, Tilak, Ishan and Axar will not be available. The selectors are more focused on picking another wicketkeeper for the series.
The selection committee is due to meet by September 3 to pick the team for the three-match T20I series against Afghanistan in Delhi from September 13.
Sources said that the selectors are l
Tilak, being a left-handed batter, is seen as someone who can break the monotony of right-handers in the batting lineup. Tilak has been asked to work on his bowling since it is believed that his off-breaks have a lot of potential. The team management, in fact, has flagged the dearth of bowling options in the top order, citing it as a reason for extra pressure on the lower order and the bowlers.
The planning for the ODI World Cup will only begin in earnest when India reach New Zealand in October, since most of the first-choice players will not be available for the ODI series against West Indies at home from September 27. A full-strength T20 team is also scheduled to travel to ****** an for the Asian Games at the same time.
"Head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Shubman Gill feel there isn't any backup ready for the middle order. With Hardik Pandya and Nitish ****** ar Reddy being ****** e to injuries, they want someone in the top order who can at least chip in with four overs in an ODI," a BCCI source said.
Over the last year, the team management has been compelled to play either Washington Sundar or Axar Patel at No. 5 or No. 6 to balance the playing XI. In the last series in England, Ishan Kishan was sent in ahead of vice-captain Iyer.
"The team has to be prepared for conditions in South Africa in the World Cup. Iyer got injured in Australia and his game against pace and bounce is untested of late. The team already has two ageing players in Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. They are having niggles as well. KL Rahul too will be over 35 by the time the World Cup comes around. Ravindra Jadeja isn't a certainty either. The fielding of the team has suffered due to fitness issues. The team management feels that they need younger backups ready," the source said.
The selectors, it is learnt, are not comfortable with playing batters out of position. Last year, Ruturaj Gaikwad was played at No. 4 and scored a hundred against South Africa in Raipur. But he has not been picked in the ODI team since.
"Gaikwad was picked as backup opener since Gill was injured. The team management feels Tilak could have been tried in that place. That's why they don't want to rush Devdutt Padikkal in the ODI setup because he found his calling in white-ball cricket while opening the batting," the source said.
The team for the West Indies series, however, will be an anomaly since Iyer, Tilak, Ishan and Axar will not be available. The selectors are more focused on picking another wicketkeeper for the series.
The selection committee is due to meet by September 3 to pick the team for the three-match T20I series against Afghanistan in Delhi from September 13.
Sources said that the selectors are l
17 days ago
Bengaluru: While the Indian cricket team made its Asian Games debut in Hangzhou in 2023, its first appearance at a multi-sport event came at the 1998 Commonwealth Games. In Kuala Lumpur, a star-studded side featuring Sachin Tendulkar, Anil ***** ble, VVS Laxman and Harbhajan Singh bowed out in the league phase. Twenty-five years later, Laxman returned to the multi-sport arena, this time as coach, guiding India to gold in Hangzhou.
Now, as the Shreyas Iyer-led Indian team prepares to defend its ***** le at Korogi Athletic Park in Aichi Prefecture, ***** an beginning with the quarterfinals on Sept 28, Laxman spoke exclusively to TOI of the unique appeal of multi-sport events, India's Asian Games campaign and the experience of being part of the cricket team's journey from its first CWG appearance to maiden Asian Games gold.
"My first experience of a multi-discipline event was at the 1998 Commonwealth Games. The whole experience of being part of the Indian contingent feels really great, and that kind of experience every young cricketer should get. It's great that I've had that opportunity both as a player and coach," said the head of cricket at the BCCI Centre of Excellence.
Recalling the Hangzhou experience, the former batting great said, "Obviously, it's not like your mainstream cricket series or tournaments that we've been part of since we started playing for the country. The Asian Games was a great experience and exposure because not often do we get to visit the Games village, meet a sportsperson from other disciplines, interact with them, see how they train and prepare. A group of us went to support the Indian badminton team, which was fantastic."
India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka are the seeded teams making the quarterfinals directly, with Afghanistan, ***** an, Nepal, Hong Kong, Malaysia and Oman fighting for the other four knockout berths.
While India will start favourites, they can ill afford to take the other teams lightly, with Nepal giving them a run for their medal in the previous edition before India won by 23 runs to make the semifinals.
India will play a match against ***** an and train in Tokyo for three days before heading to the host city. Laxman pointed to the match against Nepal and said, "One thing which we have learnt playing the game is never underestimate your opponent."
Beyond the game, Laxman believes it is about knowledge sharing.
"Given the experience and the exposure the Indian cricketers have, at the end of the match it's also about sharing that experience with players from other countries. After Nepal ran us close in the previous edition of the Asian Games, their coach invited me to talk to the team, which was an opportunity to share knowledge. It's not just me, but that's the way the entire group of players will approach the experience," Laxman stated.
#experience #nepal #hangzhou
Now, as the Shreyas Iyer-led Indian team prepares to defend its ***** le at Korogi Athletic Park in Aichi Prefecture, ***** an beginning with the quarterfinals on Sept 28, Laxman spoke exclusively to TOI of the unique appeal of multi-sport events, India's Asian Games campaign and the experience of being part of the cricket team's journey from its first CWG appearance to maiden Asian Games gold.
"My first experience of a multi-discipline event was at the 1998 Commonwealth Games. The whole experience of being part of the Indian contingent feels really great, and that kind of experience every young cricketer should get. It's great that I've had that opportunity both as a player and coach," said the head of cricket at the BCCI Centre of Excellence.
Recalling the Hangzhou experience, the former batting great said, "Obviously, it's not like your mainstream cricket series or tournaments that we've been part of since we started playing for the country. The Asian Games was a great experience and exposure because not often do we get to visit the Games village, meet a sportsperson from other disciplines, interact with them, see how they train and prepare. A group of us went to support the Indian badminton team, which was fantastic."
India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka are the seeded teams making the quarterfinals directly, with Afghanistan, ***** an, Nepal, Hong Kong, Malaysia and Oman fighting for the other four knockout berths.
While India will start favourites, they can ill afford to take the other teams lightly, with Nepal giving them a run for their medal in the previous edition before India won by 23 runs to make the semifinals.
India will play a match against ***** an and train in Tokyo for three days before heading to the host city. Laxman pointed to the match against Nepal and said, "One thing which we have learnt playing the game is never underestimate your opponent."
Beyond the game, Laxman believes it is about knowledge sharing.
"Given the experience and the exposure the Indian cricketers have, at the end of the match it's also about sharing that experience with players from other countries. After Nepal ran us close in the previous edition of the Asian Games, their coach invited me to talk to the team, which was an opportunity to share knowledge. It's not just me, but that's the way the entire group of players will approach the experience," Laxman stated.
#experience #nepal #hangzhou
1 month ago
NEW DELHI: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has wasted little time getting back to work after a productive tour of Zimbabwe, sharing a glimpse of his batting preparations ahead of the new domestic season and the Duleep Trophy.
The teenage India batter posted a video on his official Instagram account showing him working in the nets, focusing on both defence and attacking strokes. "Preparation," Sooryavanshi captioned the post.
The session comes at an important stage in the 15-year-old's rapidly developing career. Sooryavanshi has been named vice-captain of East Zone for the upcoming Duleep Trophy, with experienced wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan set to lead the side.
Watch: Sooryavanshi gets ready for Duleep Trophy
Sooryavanshi's elevation to the leadership group has attracted considerable attention, given his age and meteoric rise over the past year.
However, East Zone selector Pravanjan Mullick said the appointment is intended to gradually prepare the teenager for greater responsibility rather than place the burden of captaincy on him immediately.
"He has not been made the captain. He has only been made the vice-captain. The captain is Ishan Kishan. Besides, Ishan is a wicketkeeper, so he will be actively involved throughout the day. It is not as though Vaibhav will be captaining the team all day. As he grows, he is maturing day by day. Giving him more responsibility will help him mature even further," Mullick told Cricbuzz after the squad announcement.
The selectors have also pointed to Sooryavanshi's previous experience in leadership roles. He has served as Bihar's vice-captain in first-class cricket and was part of India's leadership group during their Under-19 World Cup campaign.
"This is a great opportunity for him to take on the responsibility of being vice-captain in the Duleep Trophy. He wants to do well for the country, and we believe giving young players responsibility is important. Who knows? We are keeping our fingers crossed that one day he could even become India's captain. That is the thought behind giving him the vice-captaincy," Mullick had said.
Sooryavanshi's preparations come after an impressive tour of Zimbabwe, where he finished as India's leading run-scorer with 151 runs in three innings at an average of 50.33 and a strike rate of 196.10.
He scored two fifties, including an unbeaten 81, and was named Player of the Series as India secured their first T20I series victory under captain Shreyas Iyer.
That was a significant response after a difficult start to his international career. Sooryavanshi made his India debut during the England tour but failed to cross the 20-run mark in his three innings.
He now has six T20I appearances and 193 runs at an average of 32.16 and a remarkable strike rate of 189.21, including two fifties.
His next challenge will be markedly different. The Duleep Trophy will provide Sooryavanshi with an opportunity to test his batting in the longer format, with national selectors s
The teenage India batter posted a video on his official Instagram account showing him working in the nets, focusing on both defence and attacking strokes. "Preparation," Sooryavanshi captioned the post.
The session comes at an important stage in the 15-year-old's rapidly developing career. Sooryavanshi has been named vice-captain of East Zone for the upcoming Duleep Trophy, with experienced wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan set to lead the side.
Watch: Sooryavanshi gets ready for Duleep Trophy
Sooryavanshi's elevation to the leadership group has attracted considerable attention, given his age and meteoric rise over the past year.
However, East Zone selector Pravanjan Mullick said the appointment is intended to gradually prepare the teenager for greater responsibility rather than place the burden of captaincy on him immediately.
"He has not been made the captain. He has only been made the vice-captain. The captain is Ishan Kishan. Besides, Ishan is a wicketkeeper, so he will be actively involved throughout the day. It is not as though Vaibhav will be captaining the team all day. As he grows, he is maturing day by day. Giving him more responsibility will help him mature even further," Mullick told Cricbuzz after the squad announcement.
The selectors have also pointed to Sooryavanshi's previous experience in leadership roles. He has served as Bihar's vice-captain in first-class cricket and was part of India's leadership group during their Under-19 World Cup campaign.
"This is a great opportunity for him to take on the responsibility of being vice-captain in the Duleep Trophy. He wants to do well for the country, and we believe giving young players responsibility is important. Who knows? We are keeping our fingers crossed that one day he could even become India's captain. That is the thought behind giving him the vice-captaincy," Mullick had said.
Sooryavanshi's preparations come after an impressive tour of Zimbabwe, where he finished as India's leading run-scorer with 151 runs in three innings at an average of 50.33 and a strike rate of 196.10.
He scored two fifties, including an unbeaten 81, and was named Player of the Series as India secured their first T20I series victory under captain Shreyas Iyer.
That was a significant response after a difficult start to his international career. Sooryavanshi made his India debut during the England tour but failed to cross the 20-run mark in his three innings.
He now has six T20I appearances and 193 runs at an average of 32.16 and a remarkable strike rate of 189.21, including two fifties.
His next challenge will be markedly different. The Duleep Trophy will provide Sooryavanshi with an opportunity to test his batting in the longer format, with national selectors s
2 months ago
Cricket, archery and shooting are among the sports well placed to regain their spot at the Commonwealth Games in India in 2030.
Only 10 sports were included in the ongoing Glasgow Games because of the rushed build-up after the Australian state of Victoria pulled out as hosts.
Discussions on the sporting programme remain ongoing between Commonwealth Sport, sporting federations and the Indian organising committee for the next Games, which will be held in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
Speaking to BBC Sport, Commonwealth Sport chief executive Katie Sadlier would not be drawn on the process but India Olympic ***** ociation's Raghu Iyer said: "There are many sports who will feel they have missed out.
"There are sports in which India has done very well, shooting, archery and many other sports."
#commonwealth #games #archery
Only 10 sports were included in the ongoing Glasgow Games because of the rushed build-up after the Australian state of Victoria pulled out as hosts.
Discussions on the sporting programme remain ongoing between Commonwealth Sport, sporting federations and the Indian organising committee for the next Games, which will be held in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
Speaking to BBC Sport, Commonwealth Sport chief executive Katie Sadlier would not be drawn on the process but India Olympic ***** ociation's Raghu Iyer said: "There are many sports who will feel they have missed out.
"There are sports in which India has done very well, shooting, archery and many other sports."
#commonwealth #games #archery
2 months ago
NEW DELHI: Teenage batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has continued his dream start to international cricket, making a stunning 230-place leap in the latest ICC Men's T20I Batting Rankings after starring in India's 3-0 series sweep over Zimbabwe.
The 15-year-old's meteoric rise headlines the latest rankings update, while Ishan Kishan tightened his grip on the world No. 1 spot after registering the third-highest batting rating in T20I history during the Harare series.
Sooryavanshi announced himself on the international stage with a memorable series against Zimbabwe, scoring 151 runs in three matches at an average of 50.33. His performances, which included two half-centuries, earned him the Player of the Series award and a remarkable rise of 230 places in the ICC rankings.
The teenage opener is now ranked 48th among T20I batters with 536 rating points, marking a new career-best ranking.
While he still trails India's senior stars, the leap underlines the rapid impact he has made in international cricket and reinforces his status as one of the game's brightest young talents.
At the top of the batting rankings, Ishan Kishan retained his position as the world's No. 1 T20I batter with 910 rating points, comfortably ahead of Pakistan's Sahibzada Farhan, who is second with 848 points.
Kishan had briefly reached a career-high 916 rating points after his brilliant 81-run knock in the second T20I against Zimbabwe. That tally is the third-highest batting rating ever recorded in T20I cricket, behind only Abhishek Sharma (931) and England's Dawid Malan (919).
Although his rating dipped slightly after the final match, Kishan's career-best figure of 916 remains higher than the peak ratings achieved by Indian greats Suryakumar Yadav (912) and Virat Kohli (909).
As the ICC noted, "Sooryavanshi's rating of 536 points is well adrift of his more experienced teammates, but Kishan can now boast of having a better career batter rating than more accomplished Indian players like Suryakumar Yadav (912) and Virat Kohli (909)."
India enjoyed a productive week across the T20I rankings.
Tilak Varma climbed two places to sixth among batters, while captain Shreyas Iyer gained seven spots to 24th after the Zimbabwe series.
Among bowlers, Ravi Bishnoi surged 31 places to 41st following his three wickets in the series. Varun Chakravarthy, who missed the tour through injury, slipped three places but remained inside the top 10.
Zimbabwe also had reason to celebrate despite the series defeat. Ryan Burl climbed six places to joint 85th among T20I batters, while fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani rose 10 spots to 26th in the bowling rankings.
#series #batting #points #Career
The 15-year-old's meteoric rise headlines the latest rankings update, while Ishan Kishan tightened his grip on the world No. 1 spot after registering the third-highest batting rating in T20I history during the Harare series.
Sooryavanshi announced himself on the international stage with a memorable series against Zimbabwe, scoring 151 runs in three matches at an average of 50.33. His performances, which included two half-centuries, earned him the Player of the Series award and a remarkable rise of 230 places in the ICC rankings.
The teenage opener is now ranked 48th among T20I batters with 536 rating points, marking a new career-best ranking.
While he still trails India's senior stars, the leap underlines the rapid impact he has made in international cricket and reinforces his status as one of the game's brightest young talents.
At the top of the batting rankings, Ishan Kishan retained his position as the world's No. 1 T20I batter with 910 rating points, comfortably ahead of Pakistan's Sahibzada Farhan, who is second with 848 points.
Kishan had briefly reached a career-high 916 rating points after his brilliant 81-run knock in the second T20I against Zimbabwe. That tally is the third-highest batting rating ever recorded in T20I cricket, behind only Abhishek Sharma (931) and England's Dawid Malan (919).
Although his rating dipped slightly after the final match, Kishan's career-best figure of 916 remains higher than the peak ratings achieved by Indian greats Suryakumar Yadav (912) and Virat Kohli (909).
As the ICC noted, "Sooryavanshi's rating of 536 points is well adrift of his more experienced teammates, but Kishan can now boast of having a better career batter rating than more accomplished Indian players like Suryakumar Yadav (912) and Virat Kohli (909)."
India enjoyed a productive week across the T20I rankings.
Tilak Varma climbed two places to sixth among batters, while captain Shreyas Iyer gained seven spots to 24th after the Zimbabwe series.
Among bowlers, Ravi Bishnoi surged 31 places to 41st following his three wickets in the series. Varun Chakravarthy, who missed the tour through injury, slipped three places but remained inside the top 10.
Zimbabwe also had reason to celebrate despite the series defeat. Ryan Burl climbed six places to joint 85th among T20I batters, while fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani rose 10 spots to 26th in the bowling rankings.
#series #batting #points #Career
2 months ago
India will look to close out the three-match T20I series against Zimbabwe when the two teams meet again in Harare on Saturday, having taken control of proceedings with a commanding performance in the opening fixture.
The tourists made light work of the target set in the series opener, comfortably chasing down Zimbabwe's total of 125 for 7 with as many as seven wickets and 40 ***** remaining. It was a result that left little doubt about which side had the upper hand throughout.
Much of the spotlight fell on teenage batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who bounced back strongly from a disappointing tour of England by smashing a record-breaking half-century off just 18 ***** . The innings also handed new captain Shreyas Iyer his first win in charge of India's T20I side.
On the bowling front, Mayank Yadav marked his return from a lengthy injury layoff in style, finishing with impressive figures of 2 for 18, while Prince Yadav chipped in with two wickets of his own to round off a well-rounded bowling display.
With momentum firmly on their side, India will now look to build on that opening statement and push for an unassailable series lead heading into Saturday's second T20I in Harare.
#series #India #yadav
The tourists made light work of the target set in the series opener, comfortably chasing down Zimbabwe's total of 125 for 7 with as many as seven wickets and 40 ***** remaining. It was a result that left little doubt about which side had the upper hand throughout.
Much of the spotlight fell on teenage batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who bounced back strongly from a disappointing tour of England by smashing a record-breaking half-century off just 18 ***** . The innings also handed new captain Shreyas Iyer his first win in charge of India's T20I side.
On the bowling front, Mayank Yadav marked his return from a lengthy injury layoff in style, finishing with impressive figures of 2 for 18, while Prince Yadav chipped in with two wickets of his own to round off a well-rounded bowling display.
With momentum firmly on their side, India will now look to build on that opening statement and push for an unassailable series lead heading into Saturday's second T20I in Harare.
#series #India #yadav
2 months ago
India vs Zimbabwe 2nd T20I 2026 live scorecard, toss winner, winning probability, result and highlights from Harare originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Venue: Harare Sports Club, Harare
Captains: Shreyas Iyer (India), Sikandar Raza (Zimbabwe)
Toss result: Toss is scheduled for 12:30 p.m. local or 4 p.m. IST
Live Telecast: Unite8 Sports Network, Fancode App/website (India), Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC) TV (Zimbabwe), Hotstar UK (UK, England)
#toss #Cricket #live
Venue: Harare Sports Club, Harare
Captains: Shreyas Iyer (India), Sikandar Raza (Zimbabwe)
Toss result: Toss is scheduled for 12:30 p.m. local or 4 p.m. IST
Live Telecast: Unite8 Sports Network, Fancode App/website (India), Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC) TV (Zimbabwe), Hotstar UK (UK, England)
#toss #Cricket #live
2 months ago
After the bruising their T20 side endured on the UK tour, this Zimbabwe series could be just the ideal fillip India needed.
Having finally recorded their maiden win under new T20 captain Shreyas Iyer after seven winless matches at the helm, India will look to secure an unassailable 2-0 lead when they take on Zimbabwe in the second T20I at the Harare Sports Club on Saturday.
Following a difficult run that saw them whitewashed by Ireland (0-2) and England (0-4), India's convincing sevenwicket victory in the seriesopener has restored some much-needed confidence.
Yet, even as the visitors look to build on that momentum, one player who will be under the scanner is explosive opener Abhishek Sharma.
Two years ago, Harare was the venue where Abhishek announced himself on the international stage with a breathtaking maiden T20I hundred in only his second game.
The stylish left-hander returns to the same ground searching for a spark after a worrying dip in form. Having begun the England series promisingly with scores of 59 and 43, Abhishek's returns thereafter have read 10, 16, 3 and 1. In Thursday's opener, his uncomfortable eight-ball 1 suggested a batter short on rhythm and confidence.
With competition for places intensifying, Abhishek knows he needs runs. Senior opener Sanju Samson, though absent on this tour, remains in the selectors' plans and has been named in India's squad for the Asian Games later this year. A substantial score in Harare would not only help India seal the series but also strengthen Abhishek's own case in a rapidly evolving T20 setup.
India, though, found a new hero in the opening match.
Teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi smashed a stunning 18-ball fifty, becoming the youngest player to score a T20I half-century.
The 15-year-old, who had endured a difficult England tour where pacy bowlers like Jofra Archer tested him relentlessly with short-pitched bowling, responded in style against Zimbabwe.
Taking on Richard Ngarava and Blessing Muzarabani fearlessly, he produced a blistering innings that underlined why he is so highly rated.
Supported by Ishan Kishan's brisk 35 and an unbeaten 28 from skipper Iyer, Sooryavanshi ensured India chased down the target with more than six overs to spare.
Head coach VVS Laxman would have been equally pleased by the performance of India's revamped pace attack. The biggest positive was the return of Mayank Yadav, who made an impressive comeback after two injury-ravaged years. The Delhi quick finished with figures of 2 for 18 and consistently touched high speeds, with his opening delivery to Brian Bennett at 150 kmph indidcating that his pace remains intact.
Prince Yadav also showed signs of improvement after a lean England tour, while debutant Ashok Sharma displayed enough promise to suggest he could become another exciting fast-bowling option.
#zimbabwe #harare #iyer
Having finally recorded their maiden win under new T20 captain Shreyas Iyer after seven winless matches at the helm, India will look to secure an unassailable 2-0 lead when they take on Zimbabwe in the second T20I at the Harare Sports Club on Saturday.
Following a difficult run that saw them whitewashed by Ireland (0-2) and England (0-4), India's convincing sevenwicket victory in the seriesopener has restored some much-needed confidence.
Yet, even as the visitors look to build on that momentum, one player who will be under the scanner is explosive opener Abhishek Sharma.
Two years ago, Harare was the venue where Abhishek announced himself on the international stage with a breathtaking maiden T20I hundred in only his second game.
The stylish left-hander returns to the same ground searching for a spark after a worrying dip in form. Having begun the England series promisingly with scores of 59 and 43, Abhishek's returns thereafter have read 10, 16, 3 and 1. In Thursday's opener, his uncomfortable eight-ball 1 suggested a batter short on rhythm and confidence.
With competition for places intensifying, Abhishek knows he needs runs. Senior opener Sanju Samson, though absent on this tour, remains in the selectors' plans and has been named in India's squad for the Asian Games later this year. A substantial score in Harare would not only help India seal the series but also strengthen Abhishek's own case in a rapidly evolving T20 setup.
India, though, found a new hero in the opening match.
Teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi smashed a stunning 18-ball fifty, becoming the youngest player to score a T20I half-century.
The 15-year-old, who had endured a difficult England tour where pacy bowlers like Jofra Archer tested him relentlessly with short-pitched bowling, responded in style against Zimbabwe.
Taking on Richard Ngarava and Blessing Muzarabani fearlessly, he produced a blistering innings that underlined why he is so highly rated.
Supported by Ishan Kishan's brisk 35 and an unbeaten 28 from skipper Iyer, Sooryavanshi ensured India chased down the target with more than six overs to spare.
Head coach VVS Laxman would have been equally pleased by the performance of India's revamped pace attack. The biggest positive was the return of Mayank Yadav, who made an impressive comeback after two injury-ravaged years. The Delhi quick finished with figures of 2 for 18 and consistently touched high speeds, with his opening delivery to Brian Bennett at 150 kmph indidcating that his pace remains intact.
Prince Yadav also showed signs of improvement after a lean England tour, while debutant Ashok Sharma displayed enough promise to suggest he could become another exciting fast-bowling option.
#zimbabwe #harare #iyer
2 months ago
Shreyas Iyer finally ended his wait for a victory as India's T20I captain after leading the side to a convincing seven-wicket win over Zimbabwe in the opening match of the three-game series in Harare on Thursday.
The result marked Shreyas' first win since taking over the captaincy from Suryakumar Yadav earlier this year. India had endured a difficult run under his leadership, beginning with a shock 2-0 series defeat to Ireland before suffering a 4-0 drubbing against England in a five-match T20I series.
Former India opener Sadagopan Ramesh said the celebrations following the Zimbabwe win were understandable given the team's recent struggles, insisting the victory would come as a major relief for the skipper.
"Many are saying India shouldn't be so excited for just a win over Zimbabwe. Yet, when you are starving for a victory for so long in T20Is, even leftover food will taste like a wedding meal. Shreyas Iyer will be relieved, considering India's fall under his captaincy. He would have reached a point where a win over anyone would have been enough for him," Ramesh said in a video uploaded on Instagram.
Ramesh also reserved praise for VVS Laxman, who is serving as India's interim head coach for the Zimbabwe tour. He credited the former India batter for consistently delivering positive results whenever he takes charge of the national side.
"VVS Laxman also deserves high praise. India perform well every time he's the head coach. Under him, India seem to always whitewash the opponents, even at a time the other teams are constantly whitewashing India otherwise. It got to the point where India just needed a win of any kind and hence their elation after beating even Zimbabwe," he added.
India's victory was further highlighted by a historic knock from teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. The 15-year-old blazed his way to a maiden international half-century in just 18 ****** , becoming the youngest player to score a fifty in men's international cricket.
Sooryavanshi reached the milestone at the age of 15 years and 118 days, eclipsing the previous record held by Sachin Tendulkar. The batting great was 16 years and 213 days old when he registered his maiden international fifty against Pakistan in a Test at Faisalabad in 1989.
#shreyas #victory #series
The result marked Shreyas' first win since taking over the captaincy from Suryakumar Yadav earlier this year. India had endured a difficult run under his leadership, beginning with a shock 2-0 series defeat to Ireland before suffering a 4-0 drubbing against England in a five-match T20I series.
Former India opener Sadagopan Ramesh said the celebrations following the Zimbabwe win were understandable given the team's recent struggles, insisting the victory would come as a major relief for the skipper.
"Many are saying India shouldn't be so excited for just a win over Zimbabwe. Yet, when you are starving for a victory for so long in T20Is, even leftover food will taste like a wedding meal. Shreyas Iyer will be relieved, considering India's fall under his captaincy. He would have reached a point where a win over anyone would have been enough for him," Ramesh said in a video uploaded on Instagram.
Ramesh also reserved praise for VVS Laxman, who is serving as India's interim head coach for the Zimbabwe tour. He credited the former India batter for consistently delivering positive results whenever he takes charge of the national side.
"VVS Laxman also deserves high praise. India perform well every time he's the head coach. Under him, India seem to always whitewash the opponents, even at a time the other teams are constantly whitewashing India otherwise. It got to the point where India just needed a win of any kind and hence their elation after beating even Zimbabwe," he added.
India's victory was further highlighted by a historic knock from teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. The 15-year-old blazed his way to a maiden international half-century in just 18 ****** , becoming the youngest player to score a fifty in men's international cricket.
Sooryavanshi reached the milestone at the age of 15 years and 118 days, eclipsing the previous record held by Sachin Tendulkar. The batting great was 16 years and 213 days old when he registered his maiden international fifty against Pakistan in a Test at Faisalabad in 1989.
#shreyas #victory #series
2 months ago
Mayank Yadav's return to international cricket could hardly have gone better, and former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin believes the young fast bowler deserves patience after overcoming a difficult spell with injuries.
Playing his first international match since October 2024, Mayank announced his comeback in style during the opening T20I against Zimbabwe in Harare. The speedster was named Player of the Match after producing a match-winning spell that began with a wicket off the very first ball of the contest.
Mayank removed Brian Bennett for a duck with a hard-length delivery that straightened after pitching, forcing an outside edge that was safely taken behind the stumps. He continued to test Zimbabwe's batters with his pace and discipline, dismissing Dion Myers during the powerplay to leave the hosts under immediate pressure. His spell laid the platform for India's commanding bowling display.
The performance marked a significant moment in the pacer's career after an injury-plagued period stalled his rapid rise. Initially fast-tracked into the Indian side as part of the team's long-term plans for the 2026 T20 World Cup, Mayank spent the past two years battling recurring fitness issues that repeatedly interrupted his progress.
Speaking on 'Ash ki Baat', Ashwin reflected on the challenges of returning from multiple injuries and urged fans to avoid judging players too quickly.
"It is not easy to go through a stress fracture at a young age. We often see and think, why is he always retained? He is always injured. We easily tell this. No player plays to get injured. Injury can be very painful. It is not just physical but also a mental barrier, especially if you are injured twice. It is not easy on the body. If it resurfaces, it plays on your mind. Mayank Yadav has a lot of time and is exceptionally talented. I want him to play more," he said on 'Ash ki Baat'.
Ashwin also acknowledged India's convincing start to the series and congratulated new T20I captain Shreyas Iyer on securing his maiden victory as skipper.
"Congratulations to Shreyas for the first win. He would have been searching for it. There is not a lot to see when you restrict Zimbabwe to 120-odd. Mayank, Prince, and Ashok all got an opportunity," he said.
Mayank's impressive return has not only revived India's pace options but also reinforced why he continues to be viewed as one of the country's most exciting fast-bowling prospects when fully fit.
#ashwin #first #baat
Playing his first international match since October 2024, Mayank announced his comeback in style during the opening T20I against Zimbabwe in Harare. The speedster was named Player of the Match after producing a match-winning spell that began with a wicket off the very first ball of the contest.
Mayank removed Brian Bennett for a duck with a hard-length delivery that straightened after pitching, forcing an outside edge that was safely taken behind the stumps. He continued to test Zimbabwe's batters with his pace and discipline, dismissing Dion Myers during the powerplay to leave the hosts under immediate pressure. His spell laid the platform for India's commanding bowling display.
The performance marked a significant moment in the pacer's career after an injury-plagued period stalled his rapid rise. Initially fast-tracked into the Indian side as part of the team's long-term plans for the 2026 T20 World Cup, Mayank spent the past two years battling recurring fitness issues that repeatedly interrupted his progress.
Speaking on 'Ash ki Baat', Ashwin reflected on the challenges of returning from multiple injuries and urged fans to avoid judging players too quickly.
"It is not easy to go through a stress fracture at a young age. We often see and think, why is he always retained? He is always injured. We easily tell this. No player plays to get injured. Injury can be very painful. It is not just physical but also a mental barrier, especially if you are injured twice. It is not easy on the body. If it resurfaces, it plays on your mind. Mayank Yadav has a lot of time and is exceptionally talented. I want him to play more," he said on 'Ash ki Baat'.
Ashwin also acknowledged India's convincing start to the series and congratulated new T20I captain Shreyas Iyer on securing his maiden victory as skipper.
"Congratulations to Shreyas for the first win. He would have been searching for it. There is not a lot to see when you restrict Zimbabwe to 120-odd. Mayank, Prince, and Ashok all got an opportunity," he said.
Mayank's impressive return has not only revived India's pace options but also reinforced why he continues to be viewed as one of the country's most exciting fast-bowling prospects when fully fit.
#ashwin #first #baat
2 months ago
India vs Zimbabwe 2nd T20I 2026 lineups as Shreyas Iyer aims to win his maiden series as captain originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Shreyas Iyer seeks maiden series win as India lead Zimbabwe series 1-0.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's record fifty, Mayank Yadav's spell power first victory.
The second T20I is set for Saturday in Harare, with the third T20I slated for Sunday.
Fresh off a much-needed victory under new skipper Shreyas Iyer, India will look to build on that momentum and seal an unassailable series lead when they face Zimbabwe in the second T20I at Harare on Saturday.
#zimbabwe #shreyas #series
Shreyas Iyer seeks maiden series win as India lead Zimbabwe series 1-0.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's record fifty, Mayank Yadav's spell power first victory.
The second T20I is set for Saturday in Harare, with the third T20I slated for Sunday.
Fresh off a much-needed victory under new skipper Shreyas Iyer, India will look to build on that momentum and seal an unassailable series lead when they face Zimbabwe in the second T20I at Harare on Saturday.
#zimbabwe #shreyas #series
2 months ago
Showing the kind of murderous touch that has made him the most feared batsman in the IPL, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi blazed to his maiden international half-century as India thrashed Zimbabwe by seven wickets, with 40 ******* to spare, in the opening T20I at the Harare Sports Club on Thursday.
Aged 15 years and 118 days, Sooryavanshi smashed 50 off only 18 ******* in an innings studded with four sixes and four fours.
The teenage batting sensation had endured a difficult start to his international career during India's T20I series against England in July, after scores of 14 (10), 13 (5) and 15 (10) in his first three innings.
Returning to the scene of his 80-ball 175 against England in the 2026 U-19 World Cup final, the precociously talented opener produced a dazzling display to make light work of a modest 126-run chase, racing to an 18-ball fifty.
Sooryavanshi smashed 19 runs off Richard Ngarava in the second over, clobbering the left-arm pacer for two sixes.
Zimbabwe hit back in the third over as Blessing Muzarabani (2-26) had Abhishek Sharma, who scratched around for one off eight ******* , caught at deep backward point off a slash. But Sooryavanshi continued to attack, launching two more sixes straight down the ground besides several fiercely struck boundaries.
He eventually fell to Ngarava in the seventh over, chasing a wide delivery outside off and top-edging to Ben Curran at deep third. By then, however, India had raced to 68 and the youngster had virtually settled the contest.
The visitors completed the chase in just 13.2 overs. The win also ended new T20 captain Shreyas Iyer's winless run, as he registered his maiden victory in his eighth match in charge. Shreyas had lost six of his first seven games as captain during the tours of Ireland and England.
It was also India's first win to kick off the three-match series since lifting the 2026 T20 World Cup in March.
Earlier, India's new-look pace attack starred after the visitors elected to field, with Mayank Yadav (2-18) and Prince Yadav (2-19) sharing four wickets for just 37 runs in eight overs to restrict Zimbabwe to 125 for seven.
Vindicating the selectors' decision to back him despite an ordinary IPL 2026, Mayank made an immediate impact by dismissing opener Brian Bennett, who had scored 97 against India in the 2026 T20 World Cup in Chennai, with the very first ball of the match.
His 150 kmph thunderbolt brushed Bennett's bat before carrying through to wicketkeeper Ishan Kishan, whose review overturned the umpire's decision. Mayank struck again in the fifth over, removing No. 3 batter Dion Myers for six, caught at mid-on.
Prince accounted for the other opener, debutant Ben Curran, as Zimbabwe slumped to 20 for three. The hosts slipped further to 32 for four in the eighth over when captain Sikandar Raza (4) pulled Shivam Dube straight to substitute fielder Suryansh Shedge at deep midwicket.
132599382
Brief scores: India 126 for 3 (Sooryavanshi 50, Kisha
Aged 15 years and 118 days, Sooryavanshi smashed 50 off only 18 ******* in an innings studded with four sixes and four fours.
The teenage batting sensation had endured a difficult start to his international career during India's T20I series against England in July, after scores of 14 (10), 13 (5) and 15 (10) in his first three innings.
Returning to the scene of his 80-ball 175 against England in the 2026 U-19 World Cup final, the precociously talented opener produced a dazzling display to make light work of a modest 126-run chase, racing to an 18-ball fifty.
Sooryavanshi smashed 19 runs off Richard Ngarava in the second over, clobbering the left-arm pacer for two sixes.
Zimbabwe hit back in the third over as Blessing Muzarabani (2-26) had Abhishek Sharma, who scratched around for one off eight ******* , caught at deep backward point off a slash. But Sooryavanshi continued to attack, launching two more sixes straight down the ground besides several fiercely struck boundaries.
He eventually fell to Ngarava in the seventh over, chasing a wide delivery outside off and top-edging to Ben Curran at deep third. By then, however, India had raced to 68 and the youngster had virtually settled the contest.
The visitors completed the chase in just 13.2 overs. The win also ended new T20 captain Shreyas Iyer's winless run, as he registered his maiden victory in his eighth match in charge. Shreyas had lost six of his first seven games as captain during the tours of Ireland and England.
It was also India's first win to kick off the three-match series since lifting the 2026 T20 World Cup in March.
Earlier, India's new-look pace attack starred after the visitors elected to field, with Mayank Yadav (2-18) and Prince Yadav (2-19) sharing four wickets for just 37 runs in eight overs to restrict Zimbabwe to 125 for seven.
Vindicating the selectors' decision to back him despite an ordinary IPL 2026, Mayank made an immediate impact by dismissing opener Brian Bennett, who had scored 97 against India in the 2026 T20 World Cup in Chennai, with the very first ball of the match.
His 150 kmph thunderbolt brushed Bennett's bat before carrying through to wicketkeeper Ishan Kishan, whose review overturned the umpire's decision. Mayank struck again in the fifth over, removing No. 3 batter Dion Myers for six, caught at mid-on.
Prince accounted for the other opener, debutant Ben Curran, as Zimbabwe slumped to 20 for three. The hosts slipped further to 32 for four in the eighth over when captain Sikandar Raza (4) pulled Shivam Dube straight to substitute fielder Suryansh Shedge at deep midwicket.
132599382
Brief scores: India 126 for 3 (Sooryavanshi 50, Kisha
2 months ago
NEW DELHI: India captain Shreyas Iyer reserved special praise for teenage batting prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi after the 15-year-old produced a breathtaking match-winning knock to power India to a seven-wicket victory over Zimbabwe in the opening T20I in Harare on Thursday.
Sooryavanshi smashed 50 off just 19 ***** , bringing up his maiden international half-century in only 18 deliveries as India chased down 126 in just 13.2 overs. The left-hander's explosive innings also saw him become the youngest player in men's international cricket to score a fifty, eclipsing a record previously held by Nepal's Kushal Malla.
Following the emphatic victory, Iyer was full of admiration for the teenager's fearless approach.
"He is fearless, the way he approaches the innings is amazing. He possesses immense confidence when he steps onto the field," Iyer said after registering his first victory as India's T20I captain.
Sooryavanshi's international career had begun quietly earlier this month during India's tour of England, where scores of 14, 13 and 15 saw him dropped for the final T20I as India lost the series.
However, a return to the Harare Sports Club — where he had blasted 175 off just 80 ***** in the Under-19 World Cup final earlier this year — proved to be the perfect stage for the youngster to announce himself.
ALSO READ: Sooryavanshi's emotional 'A' celebration steals hearts after historic world-record fifty - Watch
After taking four deliveries to settle in, Sooryavanshi launched a stunning counterattack. He hammered four boundaries and four towering sixes, dismantling Zimbabwe's bowling attack with a fearless display of strokeplay.
His innings effectively ended the contest inside the Powerplay before Richard Ngarava eventually dismissed him one ball after he reached his half-century.
Ishan Kishan (35) and captain Iyer (28 not out) then completed the chase with ease.
The victory also marked a significant personal milestone for Iyer, who finally tasted success after enduring a difficult start to his tenure as India's T20I captain.
Having lost all seven of his previous matches in charge during tours of Ireland and England, the 31-year-old celebrated his maiden win as skipper in style.
Iyer praised both his bowlers and batters for executing the team's plans perfectly.
"Exceptional. They were tremendous in their execution. Can't be more happier to get my first win," he said.
The captain also explained his decision to bowl first after winning the toss.
"I was anticipating the bounce and there was a decent amount of bounce. Exceptional start given by Mayank. Didn't give them room," he said.
Mayank Yadav set the tone by dismissing Brian Bennett with the very first ball of the match before finishing with two wickets, while Prince Yadav also claimed two scalps as Zimbabwe were restricted to 125 for seven. India then made light work of the chase thanks largely to Sooryavanshi's stunning ***** ault.
#iyer #India #s
Sooryavanshi smashed 50 off just 19 ***** , bringing up his maiden international half-century in only 18 deliveries as India chased down 126 in just 13.2 overs. The left-hander's explosive innings also saw him become the youngest player in men's international cricket to score a fifty, eclipsing a record previously held by Nepal's Kushal Malla.
Following the emphatic victory, Iyer was full of admiration for the teenager's fearless approach.
"He is fearless, the way he approaches the innings is amazing. He possesses immense confidence when he steps onto the field," Iyer said after registering his first victory as India's T20I captain.
Sooryavanshi's international career had begun quietly earlier this month during India's tour of England, where scores of 14, 13 and 15 saw him dropped for the final T20I as India lost the series.
However, a return to the Harare Sports Club — where he had blasted 175 off just 80 ***** in the Under-19 World Cup final earlier this year — proved to be the perfect stage for the youngster to announce himself.
ALSO READ: Sooryavanshi's emotional 'A' celebration steals hearts after historic world-record fifty - Watch
After taking four deliveries to settle in, Sooryavanshi launched a stunning counterattack. He hammered four boundaries and four towering sixes, dismantling Zimbabwe's bowling attack with a fearless display of strokeplay.
His innings effectively ended the contest inside the Powerplay before Richard Ngarava eventually dismissed him one ball after he reached his half-century.
Ishan Kishan (35) and captain Iyer (28 not out) then completed the chase with ease.
The victory also marked a significant personal milestone for Iyer, who finally tasted success after enduring a difficult start to his tenure as India's T20I captain.
Having lost all seven of his previous matches in charge during tours of Ireland and England, the 31-year-old celebrated his maiden win as skipper in style.
Iyer praised both his bowlers and batters for executing the team's plans perfectly.
"Exceptional. They were tremendous in their execution. Can't be more happier to get my first win," he said.
The captain also explained his decision to bowl first after winning the toss.
"I was anticipating the bounce and there was a decent amount of bounce. Exceptional start given by Mayank. Didn't give them room," he said.
Mayank Yadav set the tone by dismissing Brian Bennett with the very first ball of the match before finishing with two wickets, while Prince Yadav also claimed two scalps as Zimbabwe were restricted to 125 for seven. India then made light work of the chase thanks largely to Sooryavanshi's stunning ***** ault.
#iyer #India #s
2 months ago
India finally ended their seven-match winless run under captain Shreyas Iyer, defeating Zimbabwe by seven wickets in the first T20I at Harare on Thursday. The match also witnessed teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi script history by becoming the youngest player to score a T20I half-century.
After winning the toss, Iyer opted to bowl first, and India's pace attack justified the decision with a clinical performance.
Returning to international cricket for the first time since October 2024 after recovering from a stress fracture, Mayank Yadav made an immediate impact. The express pacer dismissed Brian Bennett with the very first ball of the match before removing Dion Myers, consistently clocking speeds in excess of 145 kmph.
Zimbabwe were reduced to 26/3 inside the powerplay and slipped further to 32/4 after Shivam Dube dismissed captain Sikandar Raza.
A fighting partnership between Wessly Madhevere (39) and Ryan Burl (26), along with an unbeaten 27 off 20 from Tadiwanashe Marumani, helped the hosts recover to 125/7 in their allotted 20 overs. Debutant Ashok Sharma recovered well after an expensive first over, while Ravi Bishnoi bowled economically to finish with 1/24.
Chasing 126, India suffered an early setback when Abhishek Sharma was dismissed for just 1. However, it proved to be Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's day.
The 15-year-old prodigy unleashed a breathtaking ****** ault, smashing 50 off just 19 ****** with four fours and four sixes. In the process, he became the youngest player ever to score a T20I half-century, putting India firmly in control of the chase before falling immediately after reaching his milestone.
Captain Shreyas Iyer anchored the innings with an unbeaten 28 off 24 ****** , while Ishan Kishan chipped in with a quick 35 off 24. Tilak Varma struck the winning runs as India completed the chase comfortably with seven wickets in hand.
For Zimbabwe, Blessing Muzarabani was the pick of the bowlers with two wickets, dismissing Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan, while Richard Ngarava claimed the prized scalp of Sooryavanshi.
The victory marked Shreyas Iyer's first win as India's T20I captain, ending a frustrating seven-match winless streak that included the tours of Ireland and England, while Sooryavanshi's record-breaking knock stole the headlines in Harare.
#seven #shreyas
After winning the toss, Iyer opted to bowl first, and India's pace attack justified the decision with a clinical performance.
Returning to international cricket for the first time since October 2024 after recovering from a stress fracture, Mayank Yadav made an immediate impact. The express pacer dismissed Brian Bennett with the very first ball of the match before removing Dion Myers, consistently clocking speeds in excess of 145 kmph.
Zimbabwe were reduced to 26/3 inside the powerplay and slipped further to 32/4 after Shivam Dube dismissed captain Sikandar Raza.
A fighting partnership between Wessly Madhevere (39) and Ryan Burl (26), along with an unbeaten 27 off 20 from Tadiwanashe Marumani, helped the hosts recover to 125/7 in their allotted 20 overs. Debutant Ashok Sharma recovered well after an expensive first over, while Ravi Bishnoi bowled economically to finish with 1/24.
Chasing 126, India suffered an early setback when Abhishek Sharma was dismissed for just 1. However, it proved to be Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's day.
The 15-year-old prodigy unleashed a breathtaking ****** ault, smashing 50 off just 19 ****** with four fours and four sixes. In the process, he became the youngest player ever to score a T20I half-century, putting India firmly in control of the chase before falling immediately after reaching his milestone.
Captain Shreyas Iyer anchored the innings with an unbeaten 28 off 24 ****** , while Ishan Kishan chipped in with a quick 35 off 24. Tilak Varma struck the winning runs as India completed the chase comfortably with seven wickets in hand.
For Zimbabwe, Blessing Muzarabani was the pick of the bowlers with two wickets, dismissing Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan, while Richard Ngarava claimed the prized scalp of Sooryavanshi.
The victory marked Shreyas Iyer's first win as India's T20I captain, ending a frustrating seven-match winless streak that included the tours of Ireland and England, while Sooryavanshi's record-breaking knock stole the headlines in Harare.
#seven #shreyas
2 months ago
HARARE, Zimbabwe (AP) — The 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi hit his first international half-century for India as Zimbabwe was comfortably beaten by seven wickets in a Twenty20 on Thursday.
Sooryavanshi scored 50 off 18 ***** . He was out next ball at 68-2, top-edging an attempted cut at Richard Ngarava.
But the teenager had turned the chase of 126 into a doddle and Shreyas Iyer was in the middle at 126-3 to celebrate his first win as captain in eight T20s. Zimbabwe made 125-7 after Mayank Yadav and Prince Yadav took two wickets each.
Sooryavanshi replaced Sachin Tendulkar this month as the youngest player to represent India but his output in the T20 series in England was modest: 14, 13, 15 at a strike rate of 168. He was replaced for the last match and India lost the series 4-0.
The selectors hoped Sooryavanshi would thrive in a low-key series at the same cricket ground where he blasted 175 off 80 ***** against England in February in the final of the Under-19 World Cup.
#India #series #first #wickets
Sooryavanshi scored 50 off 18 ***** . He was out next ball at 68-2, top-edging an attempted cut at Richard Ngarava.
But the teenager had turned the chase of 126 into a doddle and Shreyas Iyer was in the middle at 126-3 to celebrate his first win as captain in eight T20s. Zimbabwe made 125-7 after Mayank Yadav and Prince Yadav took two wickets each.
Sooryavanshi replaced Sachin Tendulkar this month as the youngest player to represent India but his output in the T20 series in England was modest: 14, 13, 15 at a strike rate of 168. He was replaced for the last match and India lost the series 4-0.
The selectors hoped Sooryavanshi would thrive in a low-key series at the same cricket ground where he blasted 175 off 80 ***** against England in February in the final of the Under-19 World Cup.
#India #series #first #wickets
2 months ago
India ended their seven-match losing streak as they beat Zimbabwe by seven wickets in the first T20I in Harare on Thursday.
Since defending the T20 World Cup ******* le in March, India hasn't won a single match in the shortest format, going down 0-2 to Ireland before a 0-4 sweep against England.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi was the star of the match with a blistering 50 off just 18 ******* , before Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer sealed a comfortable victory.
Add The Sporting News as a preferred news source
#t20i #thursday #since #World
Since defending the T20 World Cup ******* le in March, India hasn't won a single match in the shortest format, going down 0-2 to Ireland before a 0-4 sweep against England.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi was the star of the match with a blistering 50 off just 18 ******* , before Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer sealed a comfortable victory.
Add The Sporting News as a preferred news source
#t20i #thursday #since #World
2 months ago
Shreyas Iyer was officially handed the reins of India's T20I side as the team geared up for its tour of Ireland and England across June and July.
Alongside this appointment, Tilak Varma took over as his deputy, stepping into the vice-captain's role previously held by Axar Patel.
The squad announcement also brought attention to 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who had earned his maiden senior call-up on the strength of a sensational IPL campaign with Rajasthan Royals.
Iyer's elevation to the national captaincy hasn't come out of nowhere. It stems almost entirely from the leadership credentials he built across various IPL franchises over the years.
#across #shreyas #iyer #england
Alongside this appointment, Tilak Varma took over as his deputy, stepping into the vice-captain's role previously held by Axar Patel.
The squad announcement also brought attention to 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who had earned his maiden senior call-up on the strength of a sensational IPL campaign with Rajasthan Royals.
Iyer's elevation to the national captaincy hasn't come out of nowhere. It stems almost entirely from the leadership credentials he built across various IPL franchises over the years.
#across #shreyas #iyer #england
2 months ago
Shreyas Iyer captaincy record in all formats - Tests, T20Is, ODIs, IPL and more originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Shreyas Iyer was named India T20I captain months after T20 World Cup triumph; Suryakumar Yadav dropped from the squad.
Tilak Varma replaced Axar Patel as the new T20I vice-captain.
Shreyas Iyer went on a seven-match winless run as captain in the UK before finally winning his maiden game against Zimbabwe in Harare in the first match of the three-match T20I contest.
Shreyas Iyer took the helm as India's new T20I captain as they faced Ireland in the tour of Ireland and England in June and July.
#iyer #match
Shreyas Iyer was named India T20I captain months after T20 World Cup triumph; Suryakumar Yadav dropped from the squad.
Tilak Varma replaced Axar Patel as the new T20I vice-captain.
Shreyas Iyer went on a seven-match winless run as captain in the UK before finally winning his maiden game against Zimbabwe in Harare in the first match of the three-match T20I contest.
Shreyas Iyer took the helm as India's new T20I captain as they faced Ireland in the tour of Ireland and England in June and July.
#iyer #match
