4 hours ago
New Delhi: On March 27 this year, Saransh Jain posted photos and videos on Instagram, thanking former India off-spinner Harbhajan Singh for the valuable lessons he learnt during a five-day camp at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru.
In the caption, Saransh mentioned a line Harbhajan Singh told him that touched him the most. It read: "Kuch paane ke liye kuch khona nahi, kuch karna padta hai (To achieve something, you don't have to lose something, you have to do something)." Saransh further wrote: "These aren't just words. They were deeply felt and will stay with me."
Now, months later, the 33-year-old has earned his maiden India call-up.
"He is a very humble guy who knows exactly what he needs to do. I wish him all the very best because this is a special moment for him, his family and everyone who has supported him," Harbhajan told TimesofIndia.com in an exclusive interview.
Saransh, who has played extensive First-Class cricket and has been a regular for Madhya Pradesh, impressed the selectors with his consistency during the domestic grind and was recently rewarded with an India A call-up. In his outing for India A against Sri Lanka A, Saransh picked up seven wickets in the two unofficial Tests. In the second match, he claimed six wickets and scored an unbeaten 70 in the first innings, paving the way for India's 10-wicket victory.
"He has worked incredibly hard and spent many years in domestic cricket, which, in many ways, is tougher than people realise. Bowling long spells of 40 or 50 overs across a match teaches you a lot. The more you bowl, the more you learn," says Harbhajan, while lauding Saransh's domestic grind.
Washington Sundar's injury opened the door for Saransh. With Ravindra Jadeja, Manav Suthar and Kuldeep Yadav in the squad, Saransh is the fourth spinner but the lone off-spinner. If he goes on to make his debut, Saransh will become the first India player to debut after the age of 33 since Robin Singh in 1998.
"At 33, he is still young for a spinner, but he now has the experience of bowling to some of the best players of spin in domestic cricket. I am grateful that I got the opportunity to spend four or five days with him," says Harbhajan, backing Saransh to do well.
Over the years, Saransh's flight, dip and high-arm action have proved difficult for batters to pick. Those are exactly the attributes that caught Harbhajan Singh's attention during the specialist camp for off-spinners at the CoE.
"The first thing I noticed was his action. He has a very good action and keeps things simple. He isn't trying too many fancy variations. He has a lot of experience, an excellent seam position and tremendous control. Those qualities make a big difference," says Harbhajan.
"Experience teaches you to trust your strengths and bowl the right line and length consistently. What impressed me the most was his attitude. His mindset is always about taking wickets. Today, many bowlers are focused on simply getting thr
In the caption, Saransh mentioned a line Harbhajan Singh told him that touched him the most. It read: "Kuch paane ke liye kuch khona nahi, kuch karna padta hai (To achieve something, you don't have to lose something, you have to do something)." Saransh further wrote: "These aren't just words. They were deeply felt and will stay with me."
Now, months later, the 33-year-old has earned his maiden India call-up.
"He is a very humble guy who knows exactly what he needs to do. I wish him all the very best because this is a special moment for him, his family and everyone who has supported him," Harbhajan told TimesofIndia.com in an exclusive interview.
Saransh, who has played extensive First-Class cricket and has been a regular for Madhya Pradesh, impressed the selectors with his consistency during the domestic grind and was recently rewarded with an India A call-up. In his outing for India A against Sri Lanka A, Saransh picked up seven wickets in the two unofficial Tests. In the second match, he claimed six wickets and scored an unbeaten 70 in the first innings, paving the way for India's 10-wicket victory.
"He has worked incredibly hard and spent many years in domestic cricket, which, in many ways, is tougher than people realise. Bowling long spells of 40 or 50 overs across a match teaches you a lot. The more you bowl, the more you learn," says Harbhajan, while lauding Saransh's domestic grind.
Washington Sundar's injury opened the door for Saransh. With Ravindra Jadeja, Manav Suthar and Kuldeep Yadav in the squad, Saransh is the fourth spinner but the lone off-spinner. If he goes on to make his debut, Saransh will become the first India player to debut after the age of 33 since Robin Singh in 1998.
"At 33, he is still young for a spinner, but he now has the experience of bowling to some of the best players of spin in domestic cricket. I am grateful that I got the opportunity to spend four or five days with him," says Harbhajan, backing Saransh to do well.
Over the years, Saransh's flight, dip and high-arm action have proved difficult for batters to pick. Those are exactly the attributes that caught Harbhajan Singh's attention during the specialist camp for off-spinners at the CoE.
"The first thing I noticed was his action. He has a very good action and keeps things simple. He isn't trying too many fancy variations. He has a lot of experience, an excellent seam position and tremendous control. Those qualities make a big difference," says Harbhajan.
"Experience teaches you to trust your strengths and bowl the right line and length consistently. What impressed me the most was his attitude. His mindset is always about taking wickets. Today, many bowlers are focused on simply getting thr
5 hours ago
Harbhajan Singh reveals the one quality that makes Saransh Jain different ahead of potential India Test debut originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Saransh Jain earned his maiden India call-up for the Sri Lanka Test series on Tuesday.
Harbhajan Singh praised the off-spinner's clean action, control and hunger for wickets.
The 33-year-old impressed Harbhajan during a specialist camp at the BCCI Centre of Excellence.
Saransh Jain's long grind through the domestic circuit was rewarded on Tuesday when the BCCI named the 33-year-old off-spinner in India's squad for the two-Test series in Sri Lanka. The Madhya Pradesh all-rounder earned his maiden call-up after Washington Sundar was ruled out through injury, opening a door years in the making.
#harbhajan #test
Saransh Jain earned his maiden India call-up for the Sri Lanka Test series on Tuesday.
Harbhajan Singh praised the off-spinner's clean action, control and hunger for wickets.
The 33-year-old impressed Harbhajan during a specialist camp at the BCCI Centre of Excellence.
Saransh Jain's long grind through the domestic circuit was rewarded on Tuesday when the BCCI named the 33-year-old off-spinner in India's squad for the two-Test series in Sri Lanka. The Madhya Pradesh all-rounder earned his maiden call-up after Washington Sundar was ruled out through injury, opening a door years in the making.
#harbhajan #test
9 hours ago
Galle Gallants sit top of the Dafabet sponsored Lanka Premier League 2026 table after four wins from six games. The tournament which is back following a two-year absence has seen Dasun Shanaka's side made the strongest start backed by a healthy net run rate.
Follow the latest standings, form and match odds with Dafabet as the tournament heads towards its playoff stage in August.
Date
Match
Teams
#tournament #premier
Follow the latest standings, form and match odds with Dafabet as the tournament heads towards its playoff stage in August.
Date
Match
Teams
#tournament #premier
13 hours ago
The Board of Control for Cricket in India have announced a 15-member squad for India's upcoming two-match Test series against Sri Lanka in Sri Lanka next month.
The Test squad, led by captain Shubman Gill, will return to action on August 15 as India take on the hosts in the first match of the series at Galle.
India have named a strong squad that saw the return of star players like Jasprit **** rah and Ravindra Jadeja to the Test squad, however, the team will miss all-rounder Washington Sundar, at least for the first Test, owing to an injury.
Bumrah and Sai Sudharsan's participation in the series is not a 100 per cent yet as them playing against Sri Lanka is subject to clearance from the medical team of BCCI.
ssssssssss
#lanka #bumrah
The Test squad, led by captain Shubman Gill, will return to action on August 15 as India take on the hosts in the first match of the series at Galle.
India have named a strong squad that saw the return of star players like Jasprit **** rah and Ravindra Jadeja to the Test squad, however, the team will miss all-rounder Washington Sundar, at least for the first Test, owing to an injury.
Bumrah and Sai Sudharsan's participation in the series is not a 100 per cent yet as them playing against Sri Lanka is subject to clearance from the medical team of BCCI.
ssssssssss
#lanka #bumrah
13 hours ago
Saransh Jain earns maiden India call-up: Why is 33-year-old spinner included in India Test squad for Sri Lanka tour originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Saransh Jain, 33, gets maiden India Test call-up for Sri Lanka.
Injury to Washington Sundar opens door for MP off-spinner.
Jain faces an uphill battle to break settled spin trio's grip.
Off-spinning all-rounder Saransh Jain has been rewarded with his first-ever Test call-up, joining India's squad for the upcoming two-match series in Sri Lanka this August. It is a breakthrough that arrives at the relatively advanced cricketing age of 33.
#jain #call
Saransh Jain, 33, gets maiden India Test call-up for Sri Lanka.
Injury to Washington Sundar opens door for MP off-spinner.
Jain faces an uphill battle to break settled spin trio's grip.
Off-spinning all-rounder Saransh Jain has been rewarded with his first-ever Test call-up, joining India's squad for the upcoming two-match series in Sri Lanka this August. It is a breakthrough that arrives at the relatively advanced cricketing age of 33.
#jain #call
14 hours ago
India squad for Sri Lanka Test series 2026: Full team lists for IND vs SL red-ball series originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
India announced their Sri Lanka Test series 2026 squad on Tuesday.
Shubman Gill to continue as Test captain, with KL Rahul in the leadership group.
Jasprit ******* rah and Ravindra Jadeja returned for the two-match series.
Washington Sundar will miss the first Test.
#test #India #lanka
India announced their Sri Lanka Test series 2026 squad on Tuesday.
Shubman Gill to continue as Test captain, with KL Rahul in the leadership group.
Jasprit ******* rah and Ravindra Jadeja returned for the two-match series.
Washington Sundar will miss the first Test.
#test #India #lanka
4 days ago
Sri Lanka Women and Pakistan Women meet again in Hambantota on Saturday with the tourists holding a 1-0 lead after a comfortable five-wicket win in the Dafabet sponsored series opener.
Nashra Sandhu's three for 42 gave the Women in green early impetus in bowling before Gull Feroza's 78 and Sidra Amin's 57 barely broke their stride and chased down the the target.
Feroza in particular has become the story in Pakistan's success in last few matches. She has scored four successive half-centuries and her average is nudging 87, the kind of form that makes a top order feel settled rather than simply talented.
Sri Lanka, for their part, know exactly what went missing last time out.
Vishmi Gunaratne and Chamari Athapaththu gave them the fast start any captain would want, thirty-one runs inside the first five overs, only for the innings to quietly lose its shape once Pakistan's spinners took control.
#lanka #gave #saturday
Nashra Sandhu's three for 42 gave the Women in green early impetus in bowling before Gull Feroza's 78 and Sidra Amin's 57 barely broke their stride and chased down the the target.
Feroza in particular has become the story in Pakistan's success in last few matches. She has scored four successive half-centuries and her average is nudging 87, the kind of form that makes a top order feel settled rather than simply talented.
Sri Lanka, for their part, know exactly what went missing last time out.
Vishmi Gunaratne and Chamari Athapaththu gave them the fast start any captain would want, thirty-one runs inside the first five overs, only for the innings to quietly lose its shape once Pakistan's spinners took control.
#lanka #gave #saturday
4 days ago
The schedule for the cricket events at the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, **** an, has been announced, with defending champions India receiving direct entry into the quarter-finals in both the men's and women's T20 tournaments.
Cricket will be played in the T20 format and will have full international status. The women's competition will run from September 17 to 22, while the men's tournament will take place from September 24 to October 1 at Korogi Athletic Park in Aichi Prefecture.
India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh have all been seeded into the men's quarter-finals based on their rankings. The remaining four quarter-final spots will be decided through a preliminary stage featuring six teams split into two groups.
Group A includes Afghanistan, **** an and Nepal, while Group B features Hong Kong China, Malaysia and Oman.
The top two teams from each group will qualify for the quarter-finals. Since India and Pakistan are on opposite sides of the draw, the two rivals can only meet if both reach the semi-finals or the final.
India will face one of the teams that qualify from the preliminary round in the quarter-finals.
— AsianGamesOCA (AsianGamesOCA)
India's women's team will start its **** le defence against hosts **** an in the quarter-finals. If India win, they will face either Bangladesh or China in the semi-finals.
The other quarter-final matches will see Sri Lanka take on Malaysia, while Pakistan will play Thailand. India will be aiming to retain the gold medals won in both the men's and women's competitions at the Hangzhou Asian Games in 2023.
#Japan #Pakistan #asian
Cricket will be played in the T20 format and will have full international status. The women's competition will run from September 17 to 22, while the men's tournament will take place from September 24 to October 1 at Korogi Athletic Park in Aichi Prefecture.
India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh have all been seeded into the men's quarter-finals based on their rankings. The remaining four quarter-final spots will be decided through a preliminary stage featuring six teams split into two groups.
Group A includes Afghanistan, **** an and Nepal, while Group B features Hong Kong China, Malaysia and Oman.
The top two teams from each group will qualify for the quarter-finals. Since India and Pakistan are on opposite sides of the draw, the two rivals can only meet if both reach the semi-finals or the final.
India will face one of the teams that qualify from the preliminary round in the quarter-finals.
— AsianGamesOCA (AsianGamesOCA)
India's women's team will start its **** le defence against hosts **** an in the quarter-finals. If India win, they will face either Bangladesh or China in the semi-finals.
The other quarter-final matches will see Sri Lanka take on Malaysia, while Pakistan will play Thailand. India will be aiming to retain the gold medals won in both the men's and women's competitions at the Hangzhou Asian Games in 2023.
#Japan #Pakistan #asian
5 days ago
The Jaffna Kings will continue their Lanka Premier League (LPL) 2026 campaign despite their franchise rights being terminated by Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) and tournament organiser Innovative Production Group (IPG) over financial and contractual breaches. The decision, announced on Thursday, sees all franchise rights revert to IPG, which, alongside SLC, has ******* umed complete operational control of the four-time champions to ensure the tournament proceeds without disruption.
According to SLC and IPG, the franchise owners failed to fulfil their financial obligations under the franchise agreement. The termination comes in the middle of the tournament following a series of controversies surrounding the ownership group, Sports Commune.
Co-owner Manjot Kalra was arrested over corruption-related allegations, while another owner, Mayank Goel, has become unreachable. The ownership group also allegedly failed to pay player and staff salaries and mismanaged sponsor funds, leading to the cancellation of the franchise agreement.
As a result, IPG and SLC have taken direct control of the team's operations. Despite the ownership shake-up, the Jaffna Kings will continue under the same name with their existing squad, coaching staff and support personnel.
IPG CEO Anil Mohan stressed that safeguarding the tournament's integrity remained the organisers' top priority.
"While this was a difficult decision, our priority has always been to protect the integrity of the Lanka Premier League and ensure complete stability for our players, coaches, partners and fans. Together with Sri Lanka Cricket, we have acted swiftly to ensure the Jaffna Kings continue to participate in the tournament without disruption. We want to ******* ure everyone that all operational matters, including player contracts, staff commitments and team logistics, are being managed seamlessly. The sixth edition of the LPL will proceed as planned, and we remain fully committed to delivering another successful and world-class tournament," Anil Mohan said.
On the field, the Bhanuka Rajapaksa-led Jaffna Kings have made a positive start to their campaign, winning two of their first three matches. The sixth edition of the Lanka Premier League began on July 17 and is scheduled to conclude on August 8.
#lanka #jaffna #kings #league
According to SLC and IPG, the franchise owners failed to fulfil their financial obligations under the franchise agreement. The termination comes in the middle of the tournament following a series of controversies surrounding the ownership group, Sports Commune.
Co-owner Manjot Kalra was arrested over corruption-related allegations, while another owner, Mayank Goel, has become unreachable. The ownership group also allegedly failed to pay player and staff salaries and mismanaged sponsor funds, leading to the cancellation of the franchise agreement.
As a result, IPG and SLC have taken direct control of the team's operations. Despite the ownership shake-up, the Jaffna Kings will continue under the same name with their existing squad, coaching staff and support personnel.
IPG CEO Anil Mohan stressed that safeguarding the tournament's integrity remained the organisers' top priority.
"While this was a difficult decision, our priority has always been to protect the integrity of the Lanka Premier League and ensure complete stability for our players, coaches, partners and fans. Together with Sri Lanka Cricket, we have acted swiftly to ensure the Jaffna Kings continue to participate in the tournament without disruption. We want to ******* ure everyone that all operational matters, including player contracts, staff commitments and team logistics, are being managed seamlessly. The sixth edition of the LPL will proceed as planned, and we remain fully committed to delivering another successful and world-class tournament," Anil Mohan said.
On the field, the Bhanuka Rajapaksa-led Jaffna Kings have made a positive start to their campaign, winning two of their first three matches. The sixth edition of the Lanka Premier League began on July 17 and is scheduled to conclude on August 8.
#lanka #jaffna #kings #league
5 days ago
NEW DELHI: India's teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi once again captured the spotlight on Thursday — not just for rewriting cricket history, but also for the heartfelt celebration that followed his record-breaking half-century.
The 15-year-old produced a breathtaking innings against Zimbabwe in the first T20I at Harare, smashing a 50 off just 18 ******* to become the youngest player ever to score a fifty in men's international cricket.
Moments after reaching the milestone, Sooryavanshi broke into his now-famous 'A' celebration, forming the letter with his fingers before acknowledging the dressing room. The emotional gesture, which first went viral during IPL 2026, has now become synonymous with the young opener.
The left-hander's explosive knock featured four boundaries and four sixes, giving India a flying start in their chase of 126 after Zimbabwe were restricted to 125/7.
WATCH:
While the celebration sparked widespread curiosity during the IPL, Sooryavanshi had initially played down its significance, insisting he simply enjoyed trying different celebrations after reaching milestones.
"I don't know. I just do something new every match. I don't really plan it. There's no meaning behind it," he had said after one of his IPL knocks.
However, the real meaning behind the gesture later emerged in a behind-the-scenes Rajasthan Royals video.
Speaking to team manager Romi Bhinder, the youngster finally revealed that the 'A' is a tribute to his mother, Aarti.
"The celebration is for my mother. Her name starts with the letter 'A'," Sooryavanshi had revealed.
Since then, the celebration has become his trademark, and Thursday's emotional tribute carried even greater significance after he etched his name into the record books.
At 15 years and 118 days, Sooryavanshi eclipsed Nepal's Kushal Malla, who previously held the record after scoring his maiden international fifty at 15 years and 340 days.
The Indian opener also surpassed some of cricket's biggest names on the all-time list. Sachin Tendulkar scored his maiden international fifty at 16 years and 213 days in a Test against Pakistan in 1989, while Shahid Afridi reached the milestone at 16 years and 214 days during an ODI against Sri Lanka in 1996.
The innings also made Sooryavanshi the youngest player ever to register a 50-plus score in men's T20Is, comfortably bettering Gibraltar's Louis Bruce, who had held the previous T20I age record.
Already one of the biggest stories of IPL 2026, Sooryavanshi has now carried that form onto the international stage.
#become
The 15-year-old produced a breathtaking innings against Zimbabwe in the first T20I at Harare, smashing a 50 off just 18 ******* to become the youngest player ever to score a fifty in men's international cricket.
Moments after reaching the milestone, Sooryavanshi broke into his now-famous 'A' celebration, forming the letter with his fingers before acknowledging the dressing room. The emotional gesture, which first went viral during IPL 2026, has now become synonymous with the young opener.
The left-hander's explosive knock featured four boundaries and four sixes, giving India a flying start in their chase of 126 after Zimbabwe were restricted to 125/7.
WATCH:
While the celebration sparked widespread curiosity during the IPL, Sooryavanshi had initially played down its significance, insisting he simply enjoyed trying different celebrations after reaching milestones.
"I don't know. I just do something new every match. I don't really plan it. There's no meaning behind it," he had said after one of his IPL knocks.
However, the real meaning behind the gesture later emerged in a behind-the-scenes Rajasthan Royals video.
Speaking to team manager Romi Bhinder, the youngster finally revealed that the 'A' is a tribute to his mother, Aarti.
"The celebration is for my mother. Her name starts with the letter 'A'," Sooryavanshi had revealed.
Since then, the celebration has become his trademark, and Thursday's emotional tribute carried even greater significance after he etched his name into the record books.
At 15 years and 118 days, Sooryavanshi eclipsed Nepal's Kushal Malla, who previously held the record after scoring his maiden international fifty at 15 years and 340 days.
The Indian opener also surpassed some of cricket's biggest names on the all-time list. Sachin Tendulkar scored his maiden international fifty at 16 years and 213 days in a Test against Pakistan in 1989, while Shahid Afridi reached the milestone at 16 years and 214 days during an ODI against Sri Lanka in 1996.
The innings also made Sooryavanshi the youngest player ever to register a 50-plus score in men's T20Is, comfortably bettering Gibraltar's Louis Bruce, who had held the previous T20I age record.
Already one of the biggest stories of IPL 2026, Sooryavanshi has now carried that form onto the international stage.
#become
6 days ago
The sixth edition of the Lanka Premier League got underway on July 17, with defending champions Jaffna Kings facing Galle Gallants at the Sinhalese Sports Club Ground in Colombo in a repeat of the 2024 final.
Five franchises are competing across 24 matches at four venues, running through to the final at the R Premadasa Stadium on August 8. Jaffna Kings began as favourites, having won four of the previous five editions.
Add The Sporting News as a preferred news source
The following five teams feature in LPL 2026:
#five
Five franchises are competing across 24 matches at four venues, running through to the final at the R Premadasa Stadium on August 8. Jaffna Kings began as favourites, having won four of the previous five editions.
Add The Sporting News as a preferred news source
The following five teams feature in LPL 2026:
#five
6 days ago
Richard Gleeson, who was signed by Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) as an injury replacement for Nuwan Thushara for INR 1.6 crore ahead of IPL 2026, made a sensational start to his The Hundred 2026 campaign with MI London, producing a match-winning spell against Sunrisers Leeds.
The 38-year-old England pacer was drafted into RCB's squad after Sri Lankan speedster Nuwan Thushara was unable to join the franchise, with Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) refusing to grant him a No-Objection Certificate (NOC).
Now representing MI London (formerly Oval Invincibles), the defending champions of The Hundred, Gleeson showcased his class in the opening match of the 2026 season at The Kia Oval.
Leading MI London's pace attack, Gleeson ripped through the Sunrisers Leeds batting lineup, returning outstanding figures of 4/25. The veteran seamer struck at crucial moments whenever Sunrisers Leeds looked set to build a partnership. He also came within one delivery of a hat-trick after dismissing Zak Crawley and Benny Howell off successive ****** , putting the opposition under immense pressure.
His disciplined spell restricted Sunrisers Leeds to 143, laying the perfect platform for MI London's chase.
MI London's chase got off to the worst possible start as Brydon Carse produced a fiery opening spell, clocking speeds in excess of 90mph. The Sunrisers Leeds pacer removed Will Jacks and birthday boy Jason Roy cheaply, reducing the defending champions to 4/2. When Nathan Ellis bowled James Vince for 13, MI London found themselves in trouble at 51/3, with the momentum firmly in Sunrisers' favour.
However, the game turned completely after Nicholas Pooran walked to the crease. The West Indies star launched a breathtaking counterattack, smashing 58 off just 22 ****** *, including five fours and five sixes. He raced to his half-century in just 19 deliveries, registering the fastest fifty in MI London's history.
At the other end, captain Sam Curran played the perfect supporting role, remaining unbeaten on 60 off 39 ****** . The duo stitched together an unbroken 93-run partnership off only 40 deliveries, guiding MI London to 144/3 in 84 ****** and sealing a commanding seven-wicket victory with 16 ****** to spare to begin their ****** le defence in style.
#spell #thushara #hundred
The 38-year-old England pacer was drafted into RCB's squad after Sri Lankan speedster Nuwan Thushara was unable to join the franchise, with Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) refusing to grant him a No-Objection Certificate (NOC).
Now representing MI London (formerly Oval Invincibles), the defending champions of The Hundred, Gleeson showcased his class in the opening match of the 2026 season at The Kia Oval.
Leading MI London's pace attack, Gleeson ripped through the Sunrisers Leeds batting lineup, returning outstanding figures of 4/25. The veteran seamer struck at crucial moments whenever Sunrisers Leeds looked set to build a partnership. He also came within one delivery of a hat-trick after dismissing Zak Crawley and Benny Howell off successive ****** , putting the opposition under immense pressure.
His disciplined spell restricted Sunrisers Leeds to 143, laying the perfect platform for MI London's chase.
MI London's chase got off to the worst possible start as Brydon Carse produced a fiery opening spell, clocking speeds in excess of 90mph. The Sunrisers Leeds pacer removed Will Jacks and birthday boy Jason Roy cheaply, reducing the defending champions to 4/2. When Nathan Ellis bowled James Vince for 13, MI London found themselves in trouble at 51/3, with the momentum firmly in Sunrisers' favour.
However, the game turned completely after Nicholas Pooran walked to the crease. The West Indies star launched a breathtaking counterattack, smashing 58 off just 22 ****** *, including five fours and five sixes. He raced to his half-century in just 19 deliveries, registering the fastest fifty in MI London's history.
At the other end, captain Sam Curran played the perfect supporting role, remaining unbeaten on 60 off 39 ****** . The duo stitched together an unbroken 93-run partnership off only 40 deliveries, guiding MI London to 144/3 in 84 ****** and sealing a commanding seven-wicket victory with 16 ****** to spare to begin their ****** le defence in style.
#spell #thushara #hundred
6 days ago
Today's cricket sees The Hundred continue at Southampton with Southern Brave vs. Welsh Fire for both for the men and women. Colombo Kaps take on Jaffna Kings and Dambulla Sixers play Galle Gallants in the Lanka Premier League.
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#southern
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7 days ago
Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza has backed teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi to emerge as a "generational talent", urging people not to judge the 15-year-old after a difficult start to his international career.
Sooryavanshi endured a challenging debut T20I series in England, scoring 14, 13 and 15 in three appearances as India went down 0-4. The young opener also struggled against Jofra Archer's short-ball, falling to the England pacer twice during the series.
Despite the modest returns, Raza believes the youngster has the ability to become one of the game's brightest stars if his development is managed carefully.
"Vaibhav is a supremely talented cricketer. If a 15-year-old kid is playing international cricket, criticising him after just two or three matches isn't justified," Raza said on JioStar.
"I think Vaibhav has a lot of very good senior cricketers around him. If he is managed and handled well, I think Vaibhav could be a generational talent."
The India opener now returns to Harare, a venue that holds special memories for him after his remarkable 175 off 80 ****** against England in the Under-19 World Cup final in January helped India lift the ****** le.
With Sanju Samson unavailable for the Zimbabwe tour, Sooryavanshi is expected to receive another opportunity at the top of the order when the three-match T20I series gets underway on Thursday.
Raza said the teenager's rise through the ranks at such a young age is already an extraordinary achievement and stressed the importance of nurturing his talent.
"To see what he has done over the last year, what he has done for India Under-19, and the fact that he made his international debut at the same age, these are no small feats by any means.
"You don't get to hear such stories nowadays. Vaibhav is special. It will be important how he is managed and handled," he added.
Looking ahead to the series, Raza rejected suggestions that India would start as overwhelming favourites despite Zimbabwe facing the reigning T20 world champions.
"Both countries will have an equal chance in this series. But one thing I am very sure about is that because Zimbabwe has been playing very consistent and very entertaining cricket, I can say this for sure that this series will be very entertaining," Raza told Star Sports.
Zimbabwe head into the contest with confidence after a series of impressive results, including a memorable 23-run victory over Australia at the ICC T20 World Cup in Colombo in February, a result that played a key role in Australia's surprise group-stage exit. They have also registered wins over Sri Lanka and Bangladesh this year.
"As far as winning or losing is concerned, both countries have an equal chance to win the series," said Raza, who has represented Zimbabwe in 136 T20Is.
The experienced all-rounder acknowledged India's fearless batting approach, saying it can either overwhelm opponents or leave the door open if things do not go according to plan.
Sooryavanshi endured a challenging debut T20I series in England, scoring 14, 13 and 15 in three appearances as India went down 0-4. The young opener also struggled against Jofra Archer's short-ball, falling to the England pacer twice during the series.
Despite the modest returns, Raza believes the youngster has the ability to become one of the game's brightest stars if his development is managed carefully.
"Vaibhav is a supremely talented cricketer. If a 15-year-old kid is playing international cricket, criticising him after just two or three matches isn't justified," Raza said on JioStar.
"I think Vaibhav has a lot of very good senior cricketers around him. If he is managed and handled well, I think Vaibhav could be a generational talent."
The India opener now returns to Harare, a venue that holds special memories for him after his remarkable 175 off 80 ****** against England in the Under-19 World Cup final in January helped India lift the ****** le.
With Sanju Samson unavailable for the Zimbabwe tour, Sooryavanshi is expected to receive another opportunity at the top of the order when the three-match T20I series gets underway on Thursday.
Raza said the teenager's rise through the ranks at such a young age is already an extraordinary achievement and stressed the importance of nurturing his talent.
"To see what he has done over the last year, what he has done for India Under-19, and the fact that he made his international debut at the same age, these are no small feats by any means.
"You don't get to hear such stories nowadays. Vaibhav is special. It will be important how he is managed and handled," he added.
Looking ahead to the series, Raza rejected suggestions that India would start as overwhelming favourites despite Zimbabwe facing the reigning T20 world champions.
"Both countries will have an equal chance in this series. But one thing I am very sure about is that because Zimbabwe has been playing very consistent and very entertaining cricket, I can say this for sure that this series will be very entertaining," Raza told Star Sports.
Zimbabwe head into the contest with confidence after a series of impressive results, including a memorable 23-run victory over Australia at the ICC T20 World Cup in Colombo in February, a result that played a key role in Australia's surprise group-stage exit. They have also registered wins over Sri Lanka and Bangladesh this year.
"As far as winning or losing is concerned, both countries have an equal chance to win the series," said Raza, who has represented Zimbabwe in 136 T20Is.
The experienced all-rounder acknowledged India's fearless batting approach, saying it can either overwhelm opponents or leave the door open if things do not go according to plan.
7 days ago
India fast bowler Ashok Sharma has described receiving his maiden senior national team call-up as the fulfilment of a long-standing dream, with the youngster now hoping to make his international debut during the upcoming T20I series against Zimbabwe.
India will take on Zimbabwe in a three-match T20I series in Harare from July 23 to 26, and Ashok is among the uncapped players in contention to earn his first cap. Ahead of the tour, the pacer said wearing the India jersey has always been his biggest ambition.
"My first target will be to wear the India jersey. I am waiting for that moment to wear that jersey and represent my nation. I have waited for this for a long time. So that will be the first thing. The second thing is that I will keep doing what I know best. Whatever I have done till now- the hard work in domestic cricket, the preparation and the routines- I will just keep following that. I will stick to my strengths and not try anything extra," he told Jio Star.
The 23-year-old also outlined his immediate objectives for the Zimbabwe series, saying he wants to make the most of the opportunity if he gets a place in the playing XI. Ashok added that performing well in the shortest format could help him move closer to another dream of representing India in Test cricket.
"Now that I am in the squad for the series against Zimbabwe, my next target will be to take as many wickets as possible and try to play as many matches as I can. I want to make this opportunity count. My next goal after that will be to play red-ball cricket for India as soon as possible," he added.
Ashok's selection comes after he was part of the India A squad for the tour of Sri Lanka in June. He joined the squad as a replacement after pacer Yudhvir Singh sustained an injury while fielding, giving him the chance to gain experience with the national development side.
The right-arm pacer also revealed the cricketer who has shaped his approach to fast bowling the most, identifying former South Africa speedster Dale Steyn as his biggest inspiration.
"Dale Steyn is a bowler who is a match-winner in himself. On his day, when his bowling was on point, he could win matches single-handedly. He could take the game away from the opposition in a matter of a few overs," he said.
Explaining what he admires about the legendary fast bowler, Ashok said Steyn's attitude and methods have had a lasting impact on him.
"I follow him in terms of his aggression, his run-up, his intensity and the way he used to set up batters. Everything about him is inspiring. He is someone I look up to as a fast bowler," he added.
#pacer
India will take on Zimbabwe in a three-match T20I series in Harare from July 23 to 26, and Ashok is among the uncapped players in contention to earn his first cap. Ahead of the tour, the pacer said wearing the India jersey has always been his biggest ambition.
"My first target will be to wear the India jersey. I am waiting for that moment to wear that jersey and represent my nation. I have waited for this for a long time. So that will be the first thing. The second thing is that I will keep doing what I know best. Whatever I have done till now- the hard work in domestic cricket, the preparation and the routines- I will just keep following that. I will stick to my strengths and not try anything extra," he told Jio Star.
The 23-year-old also outlined his immediate objectives for the Zimbabwe series, saying he wants to make the most of the opportunity if he gets a place in the playing XI. Ashok added that performing well in the shortest format could help him move closer to another dream of representing India in Test cricket.
"Now that I am in the squad for the series against Zimbabwe, my next target will be to take as many wickets as possible and try to play as many matches as I can. I want to make this opportunity count. My next goal after that will be to play red-ball cricket for India as soon as possible," he added.
Ashok's selection comes after he was part of the India A squad for the tour of Sri Lanka in June. He joined the squad as a replacement after pacer Yudhvir Singh sustained an injury while fielding, giving him the chance to gain experience with the national development side.
The right-arm pacer also revealed the cricketer who has shaped his approach to fast bowling the most, identifying former South Africa speedster Dale Steyn as his biggest inspiration.
"Dale Steyn is a bowler who is a match-winner in himself. On his day, when his bowling was on point, he could win matches single-handedly. He could take the game away from the opposition in a matter of a few overs," he said.
Explaining what he admires about the legendary fast bowler, Ashok said Steyn's attitude and methods have had a lasting impact on him.
"I follow him in terms of his aggression, his run-up, his intensity and the way he used to set up batters. Everything about him is inspiring. He is someone I look up to as a fast bowler," he added.
#pacer
15 days ago
NEW DELHI: Former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh has given teenage batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi a new nickname - "Terminator 6" - and said he would love to mentor the youngster just as he did with India opener Abhishek Sharma.
Yuvraj believes the 15-year-old is a "serious player in the making" and has a bright future ahead.
Sooryavanshi recently made his senior India debut in the T20I series against England. Earlier this year, he also broke Yuvraj's record for the fastest List A fifty by an Indian, reaching the milestone in just 11 ******* during the India A vs Sri Lanka A Tri-Series final.
Speaking on Star Sports, Yuvraj explained why he calls Abhishek Sharma "Terminator 4" and revealed that Sooryavanshi has now earned the ******* le of "Terminator 6."
"I always call myself a Terminator. Now there is Terminator 4, Abhishek Sharma, who is four times better than me. And after him comes Terminator 6, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who has evolved even more. I did my part in my time, Abhishek elevated it, and now Vaibhav is setting new standards. This is the third phase of the same journey. It is great to see the sport evolving," Yuvraj said.
— StarSportsIndia (StarSportsIndia)
Yuvraj said he has already spent a lot of time working with Abhishek and hopes to do the same with Vaibhav. Drawing a comparison with modern tennis stars, he said the game continues to evolve with every generation.
"When I watch Sinner and Alcaraz, I see how tennis is changing. I see the same evolution in Abhishek and Vaibhav. I have spent a lot of time training Abhishek, and I would love to spend time with Vaibhav as well. He has a great career ahead of him. He is a serious player in the making, and I believe he will get there," he added.
Yuvraj, Sooryavanshi and Abhishek on Sunday attended the Wimbledon men's singles final between Jannik Sinner and Alexander Zverev at the All England Club.
Speaking about Yuvraj's influence, Sooryavanshi said meeting his idol was a special moment.
"Yuvi Paaji is my idol too. Meeting him for the first time was a special moment. I got to spend time with him and he shared a lot of insights about the game."
"He spoke about the mental side of the game, how to handle pressure, and the importance of believing in yourself. It feels great to have so much to learn from someone like him. I am sure it will help me a lot in my career going forward," Sooryavanshi said.
Yuvraj believes the 15-year-old is a "serious player in the making" and has a bright future ahead.
Sooryavanshi recently made his senior India debut in the T20I series against England. Earlier this year, he also broke Yuvraj's record for the fastest List A fifty by an Indian, reaching the milestone in just 11 ******* during the India A vs Sri Lanka A Tri-Series final.
Speaking on Star Sports, Yuvraj explained why he calls Abhishek Sharma "Terminator 4" and revealed that Sooryavanshi has now earned the ******* le of "Terminator 6."
"I always call myself a Terminator. Now there is Terminator 4, Abhishek Sharma, who is four times better than me. And after him comes Terminator 6, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who has evolved even more. I did my part in my time, Abhishek elevated it, and now Vaibhav is setting new standards. This is the third phase of the same journey. It is great to see the sport evolving," Yuvraj said.
— StarSportsIndia (StarSportsIndia)
Yuvraj said he has already spent a lot of time working with Abhishek and hopes to do the same with Vaibhav. Drawing a comparison with modern tennis stars, he said the game continues to evolve with every generation.
"When I watch Sinner and Alcaraz, I see how tennis is changing. I see the same evolution in Abhishek and Vaibhav. I have spent a lot of time training Abhishek, and I would love to spend time with Vaibhav as well. He has a great career ahead of him. He is a serious player in the making, and I believe he will get there," he added.
Yuvraj, Sooryavanshi and Abhishek on Sunday attended the Wimbledon men's singles final between Jannik Sinner and Alexander Zverev at the All England Club.
Speaking about Yuvraj's influence, Sooryavanshi said meeting his idol was a special moment.
"Yuvi Paaji is my idol too. Meeting him for the first time was a special moment. I got to spend time with him and he shared a lot of insights about the game."
"He spoke about the mental side of the game, how to handle pressure, and the importance of believing in yourself. It feels great to have so much to learn from someone like him. I am sure it will help me a lot in my career going forward," Sooryavanshi said.
16 days ago
New Delhi: The Indian cricket board (BCCI) may have to work overtime to get the support staff for the Indian team in order after the conclusion of the ongoing England tour. TOI understands that ***** istant coach Ryan ten Doeschate and fast bowling coach Morne Morkel are contemplating moving on from their respective roles once their contracts expire after the ODI series in England this month.
"Doeschate isn't very sure of continuing with this job. He has conveyed his problems with travelling with the team throughout the year. Morkel is still weighing his options. The board is discussing the matter with the two coaches and will try to see if things can be sorted out," a BCCI source told TOI.
The Indian team is due to leave for Sri Lanka for a two-Test series in the first week of Aug. Cricket head at the Centre of Excellence (CoE) VVS Laxman will take his CoE coaching staff with him for India's three-match T20I series in Zimbabwe in the last week of July.
Sources said that Doeschate may be in talks with an IPL franchise, while Morkel hasn't said anything firmly yet. Head coach Gautam Gambhir had handpicked these two coaches when he took charge in July 2024. The BCCI has always endorsed support staff coming through its coaching programme at the CoE. Last year, Abhishek Nayar was replaced by Sitanshu Kotak as batting coach.
If things aren't resolved with Doeschate and Morkel, the BCCI may be forced to send Lakshmipathy Balaji, who was recently appointed as the fast bowling coach at the CoE, to Sri Lanka.
Fielding coach under fire
TOI has also learnt that fielding coach T Dilip is under pressure to save his job. The board is not happy with the team's deteriorating fielding standards. Dilip got a reprieve last year after being sacked along with Nayar.
"Doeschate isn't very sure of continuing with this job. He has conveyed his problems with travelling with the team throughout the year. Morkel is still weighing his options. The board is discussing the matter with the two coaches and will try to see if things can be sorted out," a BCCI source told TOI.
The Indian team is due to leave for Sri Lanka for a two-Test series in the first week of Aug. Cricket head at the Centre of Excellence (CoE) VVS Laxman will take his CoE coaching staff with him for India's three-match T20I series in Zimbabwe in the last week of July.
Sources said that Doeschate may be in talks with an IPL franchise, while Morkel hasn't said anything firmly yet. Head coach Gautam Gambhir had handpicked these two coaches when he took charge in July 2024. The BCCI has always endorsed support staff coming through its coaching programme at the CoE. Last year, Abhishek Nayar was replaced by Sitanshu Kotak as batting coach.
If things aren't resolved with Doeschate and Morkel, the BCCI may be forced to send Lakshmipathy Balaji, who was recently appointed as the fast bowling coach at the CoE, to Sri Lanka.
Fielding coach under fire
TOI has also learnt that fielding coach T Dilip is under pressure to save his job. The board is not happy with the team's deteriorating fielding standards. Dilip got a reprieve last year after being sacked along with Nayar.
18 days ago
Cyprian Keyes GC owner-general manager David Frem was voted vice president of the National Golf Course Owners **** ociation in January and he will become president in January of 2028.
"It's exciting," Frem said. "Honestly, it's a little nerve-wracking. I mean there are 4,000 members. I've gotten so much out of the organization. I'm excited to be part of it and hopefully help grow the golf business.
Frem has already served as president of the New England Golf Course Owners **** ociation.
Walter Lankau, former owner of Stow Acres CC, was the only other New Englander to serve as president of the NCGOA, which is based in Charleston, S.C.
"It's kind of cool to do something that Walt did 20 years ago because he's always been someone I've looked up to," he said.
"It's exciting," Frem said. "Honestly, it's a little nerve-wracking. I mean there are 4,000 members. I've gotten so much out of the organization. I'm excited to be part of it and hopefully help grow the golf business.
Frem has already served as president of the New England Golf Course Owners **** ociation.
Walter Lankau, former owner of Stow Acres CC, was the only other New Englander to serve as president of the NCGOA, which is based in Charleston, S.C.
"It's kind of cool to do something that Walt did 20 years ago because he's always been someone I've looked up to," he said.
20 days ago
June
3 1st ODI, Jamaica
Sri Lanka won by 41 runs
Scorecard
6 2nd ODI, Jamaica (d/n)
3 1st ODI, Jamaica
Sri Lanka won by 41 runs
Scorecard
6 2nd ODI, Jamaica (d/n)
20 days ago
By Uditha Jayasinghe
COLOMBO, July 8 (Reuters) - Dularika Perera, 38, only found out her cousin was among 26 people killed in the worst Sri Lankan prison riot in years when his photo was sent to her on WhatsApp.
The seven prison officials and 19 prisoners died in two days of fighting between two groups of inmates at the prison in the coastal town of Negombo, about 35 km (20 miles) north of the commercial capital, Colombo, authorities said.
Clad in white and holding onto her four-year-old son, Perera was among the grieving relatives and friends waiting on Wednesday morning for the bodies of the prison officials to be brought to the Welikada Prison in Colombo.
Sergeant S.D.S Abeywardana, 41, had spent a dozen years in Sri Lanka's navy before joining a special unit under the prison's department tasked with tackling corruption, drug trafficking and misconduct.
COLOMBO, July 8 (Reuters) - Dularika Perera, 38, only found out her cousin was among 26 people killed in the worst Sri Lankan prison riot in years when his photo was sent to her on WhatsApp.
The seven prison officials and 19 prisoners died in two days of fighting between two groups of inmates at the prison in the coastal town of Negombo, about 35 km (20 miles) north of the commercial capital, Colombo, authorities said.
Clad in white and holding onto her four-year-old son, Perera was among the grieving relatives and friends waiting on Wednesday morning for the bodies of the prison officials to be brought to the Welikada Prison in Colombo.
Sergeant S.D.S Abeywardana, 41, had spent a dozen years in Sri Lanka's navy before joining a special unit under the prison's department tasked with tackling corruption, drug trafficking and misconduct.
21 days ago
The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has reiterated its commitment to providing top-level security for India's scheduled white-ball tour in September, with the board prepared to further strengthen its arrangements if required.
Speaking on Tuesday, BCB security committee chairman Sayeed Ibrahim Ahmed said the board was leaving no stone unturned to ensure the safety of the visiting Indian team. While formal discussions with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) are yet to begin, he expressed confidence that the tour would proceed as planned.
The development comes after the BCB recently invited Expressions of Interest (EOI) for its 2026 and 2027 home international fixtures, specifically including India's 2026 tour, signalling growing optimism that the series will go ahead despite earlier uncertainty. The absence of T20Is from India's tour of Sri Lanka in August has also strengthened expectations that the Bangladesh tour will remain on schedule.
Relations between India and Bangladesh have experienced strain in recent times, leading to concerns over the bilateral series. Security had previously emerged as a major talking point after the then Muhammad Yunus-led interim government cited safety concerns while withdrawing Bangladesh's participation from the last T20 World Cup in India.
However, Ibrahim, who also serves as the son of Bangladesh Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed, stressed that security remains a top priority for the BCB.
"Security is always a concern for every touring side, especially for the major cricketing nations. We have not yet formally started communication with them (BCCI). We are hopeful there will be no complaints if the tour takes place as planned," Ibrahim told reporters in Dhaka.
"We always try to organise our events in a controlled environment and ensure the highest standards of security. We will continue to do that."
He added that the level of security would be reviewed based on the prevailing situation during the series.
"It will depend on the circumstances, and if required, we will enhance the security," he said.
Ibrahim also confirmed that discussions with the BCCI are still at an early stage.
"There has been no such positive message yet, and we are still working out the details of the tour. We are trying to establish communication through the formal channels because the tour is coming up very soon," he added.
Speaking on Tuesday, BCB security committee chairman Sayeed Ibrahim Ahmed said the board was leaving no stone unturned to ensure the safety of the visiting Indian team. While formal discussions with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) are yet to begin, he expressed confidence that the tour would proceed as planned.
The development comes after the BCB recently invited Expressions of Interest (EOI) for its 2026 and 2027 home international fixtures, specifically including India's 2026 tour, signalling growing optimism that the series will go ahead despite earlier uncertainty. The absence of T20Is from India's tour of Sri Lanka in August has also strengthened expectations that the Bangladesh tour will remain on schedule.
Relations between India and Bangladesh have experienced strain in recent times, leading to concerns over the bilateral series. Security had previously emerged as a major talking point after the then Muhammad Yunus-led interim government cited safety concerns while withdrawing Bangladesh's participation from the last T20 World Cup in India.
However, Ibrahim, who also serves as the son of Bangladesh Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed, stressed that security remains a top priority for the BCB.
"Security is always a concern for every touring side, especially for the major cricketing nations. We have not yet formally started communication with them (BCCI). We are hopeful there will be no complaints if the tour takes place as planned," Ibrahim told reporters in Dhaka.
"We always try to organise our events in a controlled environment and ensure the highest standards of security. We will continue to do that."
He added that the level of security would be reviewed based on the prevailing situation during the series.
"It will depend on the circumstances, and if required, we will enhance the security," he said.
Ibrahim also confirmed that discussions with the BCCI are still at an early stage.
"There has been no such positive message yet, and we are still working out the details of the tour. We are trying to establish communication through the formal channels because the tour is coming up very soon," he added.
21 days ago
NORTH SOUND, Antigua (AP) — Sri Lanka grew its lead to 281 runs in a bid to force an unlikely series-levelling victory against the West Indies on the fifth and final day of the second test on Tuesday.
Sri Lanka was 231-8 at lunch after adding a brisk 139 runs at a healthy rate of 5.79 an over in the morning session to its overnight score of 92-2.
Top-scorer Dinesh Chandimal led the visitors’ intent with 71 including four boundaries and two sixes before slicing a catch to backward point.
Captain Dhananjaya de Silva scored run-a-ball 34 and Sonal Dinusha hit 28 off 26 ****** as Sri Lanka pressed for quick runs against the spin of West Indies captain Roston Chase (1-41) and Kavem Hodge (1-23) despite losing six wickets in the session.
Alzarri Joseph had 2-44.
Sri Lanka was 231-8 at lunch after adding a brisk 139 runs at a healthy rate of 5.79 an over in the morning session to its overnight score of 92-2.
Top-scorer Dinesh Chandimal led the visitors’ intent with 71 including four boundaries and two sixes before slicing a catch to backward point.
Captain Dhananjaya de Silva scored run-a-ball 34 and Sonal Dinusha hit 28 off 26 ****** as Sri Lanka pressed for quick runs against the spin of West Indies captain Roston Chase (1-41) and Kavem Hodge (1-23) despite losing six wickets in the session.
Alzarri Joseph had 2-44.
22 days ago
'All about power-hitting': Former Sri Lanka captain Arjuna Ranatunga claims T20 cricket has killed talent in subcontinent originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
1996 World Cup-winning Sri Lankan captain Arjuna Ranatunga claims T20 cricket has killed the talent and skills of subcontinental players.
Ranatunga believes the pursuit of power-hitting has eroded the technique needed for red-ball cricket.
The former captain also urged patience and care for teenager Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
1996 World Cup-winning Sri Lankan captain Arjuna Ranatunga claims T20 cricket has killed the talent and skills of subcontinental players.
Ranatunga believes the pursuit of power-hitting has eroded the technique needed for red-ball cricket.
The former captain also urged patience and care for teenager Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.
22 days ago
NEW DELHI: World Cup-winning wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson was on Monday left out of India's squad for the three-match T20I series against Zimbabwe later this month after a poor run of form.
The selectors, led by Ajit Agarkar, announced a 15-member squad with Shreyas Iyer as captain. Teenage opener Vaibhav Sooryavanshi retained his place after making his international debut against England.
Fast bowlers Ashok Sharma and Yash Thakur received their maiden India call-ups, while Punjab wicketkeeper-batter Prabhsimran Singh also earned his first senior national team selection.
India will play three T20Is against Zimbabwe in Harare on July 23, 25 and 27.
Samson's omission comes after a disappointing run with the bat.
The Kerala wicketkeeper was dropped from India's playing XI for the second T20I against England after scoring just one run off seven ****** in the series opener at Durham.
Before that, he managed scores of 0 and 5 in the two-match T20I series against Ireland.
Despite playing a key role in India's recent T20 World Cup triumph and winning the Player of the Tournament award, Samson failed to build on that success and has now lost his place in the squad.
The selectors rewarded three players with their first senior India call-ups.
Rajasthan pacer Ashok, who was recently drafted into the India A squad for the tri-series in Sri Lanka, has now been included in the T20I squad.
— BCCI (BCCI)
Yash Thakur also earned his maiden call-up after impressive domestic performances.
Punjab wicketkeeper-batter Prabhsimran also received his maiden call-up after impressive performances in domestic circuit and IPL.
Express pacer Mayank Yadav also returned to the national squad for the first time since 2024.
The selectors, led by Ajit Agarkar, announced a 15-member squad with Shreyas Iyer as captain. Teenage opener Vaibhav Sooryavanshi retained his place after making his international debut against England.
Fast bowlers Ashok Sharma and Yash Thakur received their maiden India call-ups, while Punjab wicketkeeper-batter Prabhsimran Singh also earned his first senior national team selection.
India will play three T20Is against Zimbabwe in Harare on July 23, 25 and 27.
Samson's omission comes after a disappointing run with the bat.
The Kerala wicketkeeper was dropped from India's playing XI for the second T20I against England after scoring just one run off seven ****** in the series opener at Durham.
Before that, he managed scores of 0 and 5 in the two-match T20I series against Ireland.
Despite playing a key role in India's recent T20 World Cup triumph and winning the Player of the Tournament award, Samson failed to build on that success and has now lost his place in the squad.
The selectors rewarded three players with their first senior India call-ups.
Rajasthan pacer Ashok, who was recently drafted into the India A squad for the tri-series in Sri Lanka, has now been included in the T20I squad.
— BCCI (BCCI)
Yash Thakur also earned his maiden call-up after impressive domestic performances.
Punjab wicketkeeper-batter Prabhsimran also received his maiden call-up after impressive performances in domestic circuit and IPL.
Express pacer Mayank Yadav also returned to the national squad for the first time since 2024.
22 days ago
NORTH SOUND, Antingua (AP) — Justin Greaves and Shai Hope compiled centuries and guided West Indies to 406-5 in reply to Sri Lanka’s 549-9 declared on the fourth morning of the second test on Monday.
Greaves was 131 not out at lunch beside captain Roston Chase on 8. The West Indies trailed by 143 runs.
The Sri Lanka bowlers continued to toil on a placid pitch and prised out only Hope, who was stumped on 112 in bizarre fashion close to lunch.
Hope tried to pad away left-arm spinner Sonal Dinusha’s length ball down the leg side but missed and in the process came out of his crease. Wicketkeeper Kusal Mendis couldn’t collect the ball cleanly but it ricocheted onto the stumps after hitting his gloves.
Hope hit 10 boundaries and dominated not only the pacers but also Prabath Jayasuriya by using his feet well against the spinner.
Greaves was 131 not out at lunch beside captain Roston Chase on 8. The West Indies trailed by 143 runs.
The Sri Lanka bowlers continued to toil on a placid pitch and prised out only Hope, who was stumped on 112 in bizarre fashion close to lunch.
Hope tried to pad away left-arm spinner Sonal Dinusha’s length ball down the leg side but missed and in the process came out of his crease. Wicketkeeper Kusal Mendis couldn’t collect the ball cleanly but it ricocheted onto the stumps after hitting his gloves.
Hope hit 10 boundaries and dominated not only the pacers but also Prabath Jayasuriya by using his feet well against the spinner.
22 days ago
MUMBAI: Anvay Dravid, the younger son of former India captain and coach Rahul Dravid, top-scored with a whirlwind 87 (67b, 9x4, 1x6), while Arjun Rajput made 76 (81b, 9x4, 1x6) to help the India Under-19 team put up a formidable total of 285 in 47.2 overs against Sri Lanka A in the second Youth ODI in Hambantota on Monday.
After electing to bat first, the India Under-19 team had slipped to 81 for four in the 19th over, before Anvay, a 17-year-old talented 'keeper-batter, rescued the visitors with a mammoth 145-run partnership in just 126 **** for the fifth wicket with Rajput. India Under 19s lost both their openers- skipper Yashbardhan Chauhan (6) and Sagar Virk (4) - with the score reading 11 in the fourth over, following which Kushagra Ojha (38, 45b, 6x4) and VK Vineeth (24 off 45 **** ) added 67 for the third wicket to put the innings back on track.
Batting at No 5, Anvay, walking in with India U-19s at 78 for three in the 17th over, gave India Under-19's some much needed impetus, batting at a strike rate of 129.85, and reaching his half-century off 47 **** .
For the Sri Lanka Under-19s, left-arm seamer Gimhan Mendis took five for 41 in 8.2 overs.
Anvay was out for a 19-ball 14 in the first Youth ODI at the same venue, as the India Under-19s chased down 321 against the hosts to register a four-wicket win.
Incidentally, on Sunday, Anvay's elder brother Samit Dravid did well with bat and ball in a Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 match on Sunday. Samit took two for 23 & scored 40 not out off 28 **** to fashion Bengaluru Blasters' eight-wicket win over Mysore Warriors.
Anvay recently led Karnataka's Under-19 side to the quarter-finals of the Vinoo Mankad Trophy. He scored 220 runs in the tournament - the second-most for his side - averaging 55.00 across six innings. The India Under-19s tour of Sri Lanka includes three one-day matches and two four-day games.
Brief Scores:
India Under-19 285 in 47.2 overs (Anvay Dravid 87, Arjun Rajput 76, Kushagra Ojha 38; Gimhan Mendis 5-41) vs Sri Lanka A.
After electing to bat first, the India Under-19 team had slipped to 81 for four in the 19th over, before Anvay, a 17-year-old talented 'keeper-batter, rescued the visitors with a mammoth 145-run partnership in just 126 **** for the fifth wicket with Rajput. India Under 19s lost both their openers- skipper Yashbardhan Chauhan (6) and Sagar Virk (4) - with the score reading 11 in the fourth over, following which Kushagra Ojha (38, 45b, 6x4) and VK Vineeth (24 off 45 **** ) added 67 for the third wicket to put the innings back on track.
Batting at No 5, Anvay, walking in with India U-19s at 78 for three in the 17th over, gave India Under-19's some much needed impetus, batting at a strike rate of 129.85, and reaching his half-century off 47 **** .
For the Sri Lanka Under-19s, left-arm seamer Gimhan Mendis took five for 41 in 8.2 overs.
Anvay was out for a 19-ball 14 in the first Youth ODI at the same venue, as the India Under-19s chased down 321 against the hosts to register a four-wicket win.
Incidentally, on Sunday, Anvay's elder brother Samit Dravid did well with bat and ball in a Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 match on Sunday. Samit took two for 23 & scored 40 not out off 28 **** to fashion Bengaluru Blasters' eight-wicket win over Mysore Warriors.
Anvay recently led Karnataka's Under-19 side to the quarter-finals of the Vinoo Mankad Trophy. He scored 220 runs in the tournament - the second-most for his side - averaging 55.00 across six innings. The India Under-19s tour of Sri Lanka includes three one-day matches and two four-day games.
Brief Scores:
India Under-19 285 in 47.2 overs (Anvay Dravid 87, Arjun Rajput 76, Kushagra Ojha 38; Gimhan Mendis 5-41) vs Sri Lanka A.
23 days ago
June
12 England v Sri Lanka (Edgbaston)
England won by 87 runs
Report. Scorecard
13 Scotland v Ireland (Old Trafford)
12 England v Sri Lanka (Edgbaston)
England won by 87 runs
Report. Scorecard
13 Scotland v Ireland (Old Trafford)
23 days ago
NORTH SOUND, Antigua (AP) — Opening batter John Campbell struck his fourth test half century before falling to a short delivery as West Indies reached 132-2 at lunch on Day 3 of the second test, still trailing Sri Lanka by 417 runs on Sunday.
Campbell made 72 off 154 **** with nine fours and two sixes but holed out to mid-wicket close to lunch off Asitha Fernando's short ball to give Sri Lanka its breakthrough after West Indies had resumed on 58-1.
Kavem Hodge, who had plenty of dot **** and successfully overturned an lbw decision, stayed unbeaten on 25 off 114 **** with Amir Jangoo 8 not out at the interval.
West Indies, which has a 1-0 lead in the two-match series, trails heavily on a wicket which still looks perfect for batting and there's hardly any turn for Sri Lanka's premier spinner Prabath Jayasuriya.
Sri Lanka had gone past 500 for the first time in the West Indies when it declared at 549-9 after Lahiru Udara scored 188 while Kamindu Mendis, Kusal Mendis and Sonal Dinusha also made half centuries.
Campbell made 72 off 154 **** with nine fours and two sixes but holed out to mid-wicket close to lunch off Asitha Fernando's short ball to give Sri Lanka its breakthrough after West Indies had resumed on 58-1.
Kavem Hodge, who had plenty of dot **** and successfully overturned an lbw decision, stayed unbeaten on 25 off 114 **** with Amir Jangoo 8 not out at the interval.
West Indies, which has a 1-0 lead in the two-match series, trails heavily on a wicket which still looks perfect for batting and there's hardly any turn for Sri Lanka's premier spinner Prabath Jayasuriya.
Sri Lanka had gone past 500 for the first time in the West Indies when it declared at 549-9 after Lahiru Udara scored 188 while Kamindu Mendis, Kusal Mendis and Sonal Dinusha also made half centuries.
23 days ago
Babar Azam is back as Pakistan's Test captain after the Pakistan Cricket Board removed Shan Masood from the role on Sunday following a poor run of results.
Masood took over from Babar in late 2023 but Pakistan won only four of their 16 Test matches under his leadership, losing 12.
Explaining the decision, chief selector Aaqib Javed said the selectors wanted a captain who could produce better results.
"We wanted to look for a captain who could lead the team in a much better way," Javed told reporters in Lahore, as quoted by news agency AP. "Shan's individual performance was good but as captain we weren't getting the desired results."
Javed said there was complete agreement within the selection committee over Babar's appointment.
"The selection committee sat down and held detailed discussions. They ****** sed which player could prove to be the best captain in Test cricket. There were many discussions, but the selection committee made only one recommendation, and that was Babar Azam. That's it," Aaqib said.
Pakistan's Test form dipped sharply during Masood's tenure. His first ****** ignment ended in a 3-0 series defeat in Australia. Pakistan then suffered a 2-0 home series loss to Bangladesh for the first time. The team's only series win under Masood came against England at home, where Pakistan won 2-1. They also lost series against South Africa and the West Indies and finished at the bottom of the previous World Test Championship table.
Javed said the captain also had to share responsibility for the team's performances.
"The captain has a responsibility of finishing the games," Javed said. "Some things are the responsibility of the team, some are the responsibility of the selectors, and some are the responsibility of the captain. The captain's responsibility also includes maintaining the team's over rate, taking DRS decisions and making the right call at the toss."
Despite the team's struggles, Masood scored consistently with the bat. During his captaincy, he hit two centuries and seven half-centuries, including back-to-back fifties at Melbourne against Australia.
Babar's first spell as Test captain produced 10 wins in 20 matches. His tenure began with a 2-0 home series win over South Africa, while Pakistan also completed clean sweeps away from home against Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.
As captain, Babar averaged more than 50 runs per innings in Test cricket. His only series defeat at home came against England, who beat Pakistan 3-0.
Babar's second stint as captain will begin with the two-Test series against the West Indies later this month.
Masood has retained his place in Pakistan's 16-member squad for that series. Saud Shakeel will join the squad as the 17th player for the three-Test series in England after the West Indies tour, subject to fitness.
The squad also includes four uncapped players: left-arm spinner Ali Usman, right-handed batter Awais Zafar, right-arm fast bowler Ubaid Shah and wicketkeeper-
Masood took over from Babar in late 2023 but Pakistan won only four of their 16 Test matches under his leadership, losing 12.
Explaining the decision, chief selector Aaqib Javed said the selectors wanted a captain who could produce better results.
"We wanted to look for a captain who could lead the team in a much better way," Javed told reporters in Lahore, as quoted by news agency AP. "Shan's individual performance was good but as captain we weren't getting the desired results."
Javed said there was complete agreement within the selection committee over Babar's appointment.
"The selection committee sat down and held detailed discussions. They ****** sed which player could prove to be the best captain in Test cricket. There were many discussions, but the selection committee made only one recommendation, and that was Babar Azam. That's it," Aaqib said.
Pakistan's Test form dipped sharply during Masood's tenure. His first ****** ignment ended in a 3-0 series defeat in Australia. Pakistan then suffered a 2-0 home series loss to Bangladesh for the first time. The team's only series win under Masood came against England at home, where Pakistan won 2-1. They also lost series against South Africa and the West Indies and finished at the bottom of the previous World Test Championship table.
Javed said the captain also had to share responsibility for the team's performances.
"The captain has a responsibility of finishing the games," Javed said. "Some things are the responsibility of the team, some are the responsibility of the selectors, and some are the responsibility of the captain. The captain's responsibility also includes maintaining the team's over rate, taking DRS decisions and making the right call at the toss."
Despite the team's struggles, Masood scored consistently with the bat. During his captaincy, he hit two centuries and seven half-centuries, including back-to-back fifties at Melbourne against Australia.
Babar's first spell as Test captain produced 10 wins in 20 matches. His tenure began with a 2-0 home series win over South Africa, while Pakistan also completed clean sweeps away from home against Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.
As captain, Babar averaged more than 50 runs per innings in Test cricket. His only series defeat at home came against England, who beat Pakistan 3-0.
Babar's second stint as captain will begin with the two-Test series against the West Indies later this month.
Masood has retained his place in Pakistan's 16-member squad for that series. Saud Shakeel will join the squad as the 17th player for the three-Test series in England after the West Indies tour, subject to fitness.
The squad also includes four uncapped players: left-arm spinner Ali Usman, right-handed batter Awais Zafar, right-arm fast bowler Ubaid Shah and wicketkeeper-
23 days ago
Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli's India debuts: Comparing India legends' debut performances to Vaibhav Sooryavanshi originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi at 15 years, 99 days, becomes India's youngest-ever international debutant.
Sachin Tendulkar debuted in Tests at 16 against Pakistan; Kohli in ODIs against Sri Lanka.
All three showed fearless intent on debut, and the veterans went on to define their era.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's arrival on the international stage has inevitably invited comparisons to the two greatest batters India has ever produced.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi at 15 years, 99 days, becomes India's youngest-ever international debutant.
Sachin Tendulkar debuted in Tests at 16 against Pakistan; Kohli in ODIs against Sri Lanka.
All three showed fearless intent on debut, and the veterans went on to define their era.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's arrival on the international stage has inevitably invited comparisons to the two greatest batters India has ever produced.
