2 months ago
Geno Smith and the New York Jets were efficient, effective and mostly productive on offense in their season opener.
Wait, who are these guys?
After trotting out one of the NFL's worst offenses last year, Aaron Glenn and the Jets made several significant changes in the offseason to revamp that side of the ball. Among them: They acquired Smith, who began his career with the franchise in 2013, from Las Vegas; hired Frank Reich as offensive coordinator; bolstered their offensive line; and added a few young playmakers in tight end Kenyon Sadiq and wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr., a pair of first-rounders.
They all helped lead the Jets to an impressive 23-10 victory over the **** ans in Tennessee on Sunday.
"Our offense, how balanced we were — running the ball, throwing the ball," Glenn said Monday. "Very efficient on how we wanted to operate. The O-line was outstanding, giving Geno time to be able to create some of these explosive plays down the field."
#ball #smith #offensive
Wait, who are these guys?
After trotting out one of the NFL's worst offenses last year, Aaron Glenn and the Jets made several significant changes in the offseason to revamp that side of the ball. Among them: They acquired Smith, who began his career with the franchise in 2013, from Las Vegas; hired Frank Reich as offensive coordinator; bolstered their offensive line; and added a few young playmakers in tight end Kenyon Sadiq and wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr., a pair of first-rounders.
They all helped lead the Jets to an impressive 23-10 victory over the **** ans in Tennessee on Sunday.
"Our offense, how balanced we were — running the ball, throwing the ball," Glenn said Monday. "Very efficient on how we wanted to operate. The O-line was outstanding, giving Geno time to be able to create some of these explosive plays down the field."
#ball #smith #offensive
2 months ago
If Carlos Correa is able to return to the Houston Astros lineup by the end of the regular season, he could play second base, The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal reports.
Correa, who turns 32 on Sept. 22, has been on the injured list since May 6 with a torn tendon in his left ankle that required surgery to repair. His 2026 season was believed to be over, as a result.
However, the 12-year veteran has been progressing well in his recovery and ran the bases earlier this week. The plan is for Correa to take up to 10 at-bats in live batting practice at the Astros' spring-training complex in West Palm Beach, Florida. If he doesn't deal with any setbacks, Correa could go on a minor-league rehab **** ignment with Triple-A Sugar Land next week.
Carlos Correa has reported to West Palm Beach and hit in the cages and took grounders there today, Joe Espada said. The plan is for Correa to start hitting on the field Monday.
In 32 games this season, Correa recorded a .279/.369/.418 slash average with 3 home runs, 8 doubles and 16 RBI. He played 23 games at shortstop and 14 at third base.
#season
Correa, who turns 32 on Sept. 22, has been on the injured list since May 6 with a torn tendon in his left ankle that required surgery to repair. His 2026 season was believed to be over, as a result.
However, the 12-year veteran has been progressing well in his recovery and ran the bases earlier this week. The plan is for Correa to take up to 10 at-bats in live batting practice at the Astros' spring-training complex in West Palm Beach, Florida. If he doesn't deal with any setbacks, Correa could go on a minor-league rehab **** ignment with Triple-A Sugar Land next week.
Carlos Correa has reported to West Palm Beach and hit in the cages and took grounders there today, Joe Espada said. The plan is for Correa to start hitting on the field Monday.
In 32 games this season, Correa recorded a .279/.369/.418 slash average with 3 home runs, 8 doubles and 16 RBI. He played 23 games at shortstop and 14 at third base.
#season
2 months ago
India's search for consistency in T20I cricket will continue with a three-match series against Afghanistan, but the team's batting combination could once again come under scrutiny, particularly with vice-captain Tilak Varma's role yet to appear fully settled.
India, led by Shreyas Iyer, endured a difficult run following their second consecutive T20 World Cup triumph earlier this year. The team lost all six of its T20Is against Ireland and England before finally putting together a 3-0 clean sweep against Zimbabwe.
The Afghanistan series begins on September 13 (Saturday), with India also scheduled to play a historic T20I against ******* an before featuring in the Asian Games 2026.
With several established batters competing for places, former South Africa star AB de Villiers believes India could face a selection headache, particularly when it comes to deciding where Tilak Varma fits into the batting order.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, de Villiers pointed to the number of batting options available to India and questioned how the team would accommodate its vice-captain.
"There will definitely be some selection issues with regard to the batters. Obviously, Shreyas, captain, Ishan Kishan, Samson, Sooryavanshi, and then there are all-rounders, Tilak Varma; I think that's where the balance is quite tricky. Where will he bat?" de Villiers said.
Tilak's recent numbers also underline why his position could become a talking point.
Since the 2026 T20 World Cup, the left-hander has scored 255 runs from 10 innings at a strike rate of 159.36, with three scores of 50 or more. However, the numbers need some context. One of those half-centuries came during the recent Zimbabwe series, while another was scored in the fifth T20I against England, by which point India had already conceded the series.
His overall returns therefore look stronger in isolation than his performances across the entire period suggest. Tilak endured a particularly difficult run during India's tour of the UK, and his inconsistency has remained a concern despite the occasional big score. That makes his position in India's batting order an even bigger talking point ahead of the Afghanistan series.
The presence of Shreyas Iyer, Ishan Kishan, Sanju Samson, Abhishek Sharma and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi gives India several batting options, while the team also has to factor in its all-rounders.
For de Villiers, the challenge is not simply about selecting the strongest players but finding a combination in which every batter has a clearly defined role.
He believes India have enough quality in their squad to deal with Afghanistan, but stressed that clarity will be particularly important against a side he considers dangerous.
"Really, really strong squad, but the balance will be tricky to figure out. It is T20 cricket, so they can play around with the squad a little bit. There are different roles, but the role clarification will still be incredibly important for India, as
India, led by Shreyas Iyer, endured a difficult run following their second consecutive T20 World Cup triumph earlier this year. The team lost all six of its T20Is against Ireland and England before finally putting together a 3-0 clean sweep against Zimbabwe.
The Afghanistan series begins on September 13 (Saturday), with India also scheduled to play a historic T20I against ******* an before featuring in the Asian Games 2026.
With several established batters competing for places, former South Africa star AB de Villiers believes India could face a selection headache, particularly when it comes to deciding where Tilak Varma fits into the batting order.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, de Villiers pointed to the number of batting options available to India and questioned how the team would accommodate its vice-captain.
"There will definitely be some selection issues with regard to the batters. Obviously, Shreyas, captain, Ishan Kishan, Samson, Sooryavanshi, and then there are all-rounders, Tilak Varma; I think that's where the balance is quite tricky. Where will he bat?" de Villiers said.
Tilak's recent numbers also underline why his position could become a talking point.
Since the 2026 T20 World Cup, the left-hander has scored 255 runs from 10 innings at a strike rate of 159.36, with three scores of 50 or more. However, the numbers need some context. One of those half-centuries came during the recent Zimbabwe series, while another was scored in the fifth T20I against England, by which point India had already conceded the series.
His overall returns therefore look stronger in isolation than his performances across the entire period suggest. Tilak endured a particularly difficult run during India's tour of the UK, and his inconsistency has remained a concern despite the occasional big score. That makes his position in India's batting order an even bigger talking point ahead of the Afghanistan series.
The presence of Shreyas Iyer, Ishan Kishan, Sanju Samson, Abhishek Sharma and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi gives India several batting options, while the team also has to factor in its all-rounders.
For de Villiers, the challenge is not simply about selecting the strongest players but finding a combination in which every batter has a clearly defined role.
He believes India have enough quality in their squad to deal with Afghanistan, but stressed that clarity will be particularly important against a side he considers dangerous.
"Really, really strong squad, but the balance will be tricky to figure out. It is T20 cricket, so they can play around with the squad a little bit. There are different roles, but the role clarification will still be incredibly important for India, as
2 months ago
India continue to make their presence felt at the top of the Women's T20I bowling rankings, with Sree Charani holding on to the No. 1 spot and Deepti Sharma making a two-place jump to sixth following her strong showing at the Asia Cup 2026.
Deepti has been one of India's standout performers in the tournament, claiming eight wickets in three matches as the team booked its place in the semi-finals.
The right-arm spinner's consistent performances have earned her a significant rise in the latest rankings. Deepti, who had previously reached the top spot in December last year, is now within 60 rating points of Charani. Sophie Ecclestone, Charlie Dean, Nonkululeko Mlaba and Lauren Bell are the four bowlers positioned between the two Indian stars.
With Charani and Deepti occupying the top two positions, India continues to dominate the upper reaches of the T20I bowling rankings.
Several players also made significant gains in the latest T20I rankings after their performances at the Asia Cup. Bangladesh's Marufa Akter was among the biggest movers, climbing 19 places to 18th in the bowling rankings. Chamari Athapaththu moved up five spots to 28th, while Sultana Khatun gained nine places to share 37th.
Thailand's Thipatcha Putthawong rose four places to 47th, while teammate Suleeporn Laomi jumped 10 spots to 53rd. There were also gains among Bangladesh's batters, with Sobhana Mostary moving up three places to 36th and Dilara Akter climbing five spots to 62nd.
The latest ODI rankings also saw notable movement following England's home series against Ireland. Stand-in England captain Charlie Dean moved up one place to jointly occupy ninth in the ODI all-rounders' rankings. She also climbed two spots to share 11th among ODI bowlers after taking three wickets in the three-match series.
England's Lauren Filer made an impressive 14-place jump to 39th, while Ireland's Cara Murray rose 16 places to 50th in the ODI bowling rankings.
Ireland youngster Amy Hunter emerged as the biggest winner among ODI batters, moving up nine places to 11th. England's Maia Bouchier climbed 13 spots to 42nd, while Sophia Dunkley made an even bigger leap of 26 places to reach 43rd.
#rankings #places #three #latest
Deepti has been one of India's standout performers in the tournament, claiming eight wickets in three matches as the team booked its place in the semi-finals.
The right-arm spinner's consistent performances have earned her a significant rise in the latest rankings. Deepti, who had previously reached the top spot in December last year, is now within 60 rating points of Charani. Sophie Ecclestone, Charlie Dean, Nonkululeko Mlaba and Lauren Bell are the four bowlers positioned between the two Indian stars.
With Charani and Deepti occupying the top two positions, India continues to dominate the upper reaches of the T20I bowling rankings.
Several players also made significant gains in the latest T20I rankings after their performances at the Asia Cup. Bangladesh's Marufa Akter was among the biggest movers, climbing 19 places to 18th in the bowling rankings. Chamari Athapaththu moved up five spots to 28th, while Sultana Khatun gained nine places to share 37th.
Thailand's Thipatcha Putthawong rose four places to 47th, while teammate Suleeporn Laomi jumped 10 spots to 53rd. There were also gains among Bangladesh's batters, with Sobhana Mostary moving up three places to 36th and Dilara Akter climbing five spots to 62nd.
The latest ODI rankings also saw notable movement following England's home series against Ireland. Stand-in England captain Charlie Dean moved up one place to jointly occupy ninth in the ODI all-rounders' rankings. She also climbed two spots to share 11th among ODI bowlers after taking three wickets in the three-match series.
England's Lauren Filer made an impressive 14-place jump to 39th, while Ireland's Cara Murray rose 16 places to 50th in the ODI bowling rankings.
Ireland youngster Amy Hunter emerged as the biggest winner among ODI batters, moving up nine places to 11th. England's Maia Bouchier climbed 13 spots to 42nd, while Sophia Dunkley made an even bigger leap of 26 places to reach 43rd.
#rankings #places #three #latest
2 months ago
After months of speculation and anticipation, the NBA dropped the hammer on the Los Angeles Clippers on Wednesday over their reported scheme to circumvent the salary cap for Kawhi Leonard.
And what a hammer it was. The league has stripped the Clippers of five first-round draft picks, fined owner Steve Ballmer $30 million, fined Leonard $700,000 and suspended Ballmer, president of basketball operations Lawrence Frank and president of business operations Gillian Zucker.
It is a team-changing blow to LA, which many have noted also gave up five first-rounders, two pick swaps and future MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander in a trade for Paul George at Leonard's request.
The Clippers have already released a statement rejecting the NBA's findings and promising to challenge them. It remains to be seen how that will play out, but the NBA has certainly thrown down a harsh first move.
But how harsh is it compared to other cheating scandals in recent sports history? Let's compare the Clippers' sanctions to the bites other teams have received for bending the rules for a competitive advantage in recent sports history, which we are cutting off at the year 2000.
#fined #operations
And what a hammer it was. The league has stripped the Clippers of five first-round draft picks, fined owner Steve Ballmer $30 million, fined Leonard $700,000 and suspended Ballmer, president of basketball operations Lawrence Frank and president of business operations Gillian Zucker.
It is a team-changing blow to LA, which many have noted also gave up five first-rounders, two pick swaps and future MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander in a trade for Paul George at Leonard's request.
The Clippers have already released a statement rejecting the NBA's findings and promising to challenge them. It remains to be seen how that will play out, but the NBA has certainly thrown down a harsh first move.
But how harsh is it compared to other cheating scandals in recent sports history? Let's compare the Clippers' sanctions to the bites other teams have received for bending the rules for a competitive advantage in recent sports history, which we are cutting off at the year 2000.
#fined #operations
2 months ago
J.J. McCarthy stays on the Vikings 53 — and the injury story still doesn't add up. The Minnesota Vikings set their 53-man roster with J.J. McCarthy still on it, then spent Monday shuffling the edges. On The Real Forno Show, Tyler Forness and Dave Stefano unpacked the leak that McCarthy's ankle is suddenly "week to week," Ben Goessling's report that McCarthy himself chose not to play Friday, the Max Brosmer and Dillon Bell cuts, waiver claims of Trevor Keegan and Nick Samac, and a practice squad still taking shape.
Forness opened with the elephant in the room: he expected Minnesota to move on from McCarthy before the deadline. Then Adam Schefter said on Pat McAfee that the ankle is a multi-week injury — 10 days after the sprain, after McCarthy practiced fully Monday and Tuesday. "I don't buy it for a second," Forness said. "If it really was a multi-week injury… now we're calling it a week-to-week injury after he goes out and practices in full?" Stefano called a grade-one deltoid sprain "100% playable" and asked why sitting Friday or leaking "week to week" would help trade stock. Forness noted other backups (Quinn Ewers, Kyle McCord) already moved for sixth-rounders, and that waiting only shrinks the market. Goessling reported the sit-out was McCarthy's call, not the organization's. "It was him not being comfortable playing in the game," Forness quoted. "The whole thing just smells rotten."
Monday's moves were clearer. Minnesota claimed interior linemen Keegan and Samac after trading Walter Rouse, then waived Brosmer and Bell to make room. Forness said if McCarthy can't go Week 1, Kevin O'Connell will want a third active-roster quarterback because an emergency QB must be on the 53, not the practice squad. They also ran the rest of the roster: four tight ends with T.J. Hockenson in a contract year; Tyler Batty's torn ACL thinning the edge; Caleb Banks as a long-term "unicorn" pick, not a Year 1 finished product. "You drafted him for '27, '29, and '30," Forness said. "Trading him now would be incredibly shortsighted."
J.J. McCarthy saga: McCarthy practiced fully Monday and Tuesday before sitting out Wednesday. He chose not to play Friday's preseason finale despite the plan being for him to start the first half. Trade talks reportedly occurred but no deal materialized. Tyler expects a new quarterback added if McCarthy can't play Week 1.
Offensive line: The Vikings claimed Trevor Keegan (fourth-ranked PFF guard) and Nick Samac (top PFF preseason center), both with center versatility. Walter Rouse was traded for a sixth-round pick. Max Brosmer and Dillon Bell were waived.
#injury #bell
Forness opened with the elephant in the room: he expected Minnesota to move on from McCarthy before the deadline. Then Adam Schefter said on Pat McAfee that the ankle is a multi-week injury — 10 days after the sprain, after McCarthy practiced fully Monday and Tuesday. "I don't buy it for a second," Forness said. "If it really was a multi-week injury… now we're calling it a week-to-week injury after he goes out and practices in full?" Stefano called a grade-one deltoid sprain "100% playable" and asked why sitting Friday or leaking "week to week" would help trade stock. Forness noted other backups (Quinn Ewers, Kyle McCord) already moved for sixth-rounders, and that waiting only shrinks the market. Goessling reported the sit-out was McCarthy's call, not the organization's. "It was him not being comfortable playing in the game," Forness quoted. "The whole thing just smells rotten."
Monday's moves were clearer. Minnesota claimed interior linemen Keegan and Samac after trading Walter Rouse, then waived Brosmer and Bell to make room. Forness said if McCarthy can't go Week 1, Kevin O'Connell will want a third active-roster quarterback because an emergency QB must be on the 53, not the practice squad. They also ran the rest of the roster: four tight ends with T.J. Hockenson in a contract year; Tyler Batty's torn ACL thinning the edge; Caleb Banks as a long-term "unicorn" pick, not a Year 1 finished product. "You drafted him for '27, '29, and '30," Forness said. "Trading him now would be incredibly shortsighted."
J.J. McCarthy saga: McCarthy practiced fully Monday and Tuesday before sitting out Wednesday. He chose not to play Friday's preseason finale despite the plan being for him to start the first half. Trade talks reportedly occurred but no deal materialized. Tyler expects a new quarterback added if McCarthy can't play Week 1.
Offensive line: The Vikings claimed Trevor Keegan (fourth-ranked PFF guard) and Nick Samac (top PFF preseason center), both with center versatility. Walter Rouse was traded for a sixth-round pick. Max Brosmer and Dillon Bell were waived.
#injury #bell
2 months ago
After a late scratch of the Rockies' starting pitcher, the Braves were hoping to secure a series win against the Colorado bullpen with Martin Perez on the mound.
The game started slowly, with scattered baserunners but no runs, exactly what you'd expect in a matchup between Martin Perez and the Rockies bullpen in 2026. The Braves loaded the bases with two singles and a walk from the top of the order in the third, but cleanup hitter Mauricio Dubon flied out to end the threat. It wasn't until the sixth that a team got a runner past first base and it was the Rockies. Perez had pitched well through 5.2 innings with 6 strikeouts on 83 pitches, but went walk-single-walk-single to allow the first run of the ballgame and leave the bases loaded. Suter was able to record the crucial out and keep the score at 1-0. Martin was great overall, which makes that sixth even more disappointing, as those were his first two walks of the game.
The offense continued to flounder against the Rockies' pen and Suter got the seventh and was able to work a scoreless frame, as four soft grounders led to a single, double-play, single, and groundout. former Brave Jimmy Herget got the ball for Colorado in the seventh and allowed a swinging bunt single to Harris before there was a game delay due to the home plate umpire being hit in the mask with a foul tip, checked for a concussion, and ultimately replaced.
After the break, Ozzie battled from being down 0-2 and was ultimately hit in the shin pad by a slider, taking first. Yastrzemski produced some karma for the Rockies, as a swinging bunt to the pitcher produced a double-play, leaving Harris on third with two outs for Austin Riley. Austin walked and Lane Thomas got his second plate appearance after pinch-hitting for Dom Smith earlier in the game. Austin stole second to put two runners in scoring position, but Lane struck out looking to end the inning, with Atlanta still looking for that elusive first run. Suter continued to pitch into the eighth and worked another scoreless frame, doing tremendous work out of the bullpen, even as the offense was quiet.
Singles from Olson and Dubon presented another opportunity with runners on the corners and two outs in the eighth for Harris. Money Mike came through with a double off the glove of a diving Colorado outfielder, scoring Olson and Dubon for a 2-1 lead.
#Rockies #Colorado #perez #game
The game started slowly, with scattered baserunners but no runs, exactly what you'd expect in a matchup between Martin Perez and the Rockies bullpen in 2026. The Braves loaded the bases with two singles and a walk from the top of the order in the third, but cleanup hitter Mauricio Dubon flied out to end the threat. It wasn't until the sixth that a team got a runner past first base and it was the Rockies. Perez had pitched well through 5.2 innings with 6 strikeouts on 83 pitches, but went walk-single-walk-single to allow the first run of the ballgame and leave the bases loaded. Suter was able to record the crucial out and keep the score at 1-0. Martin was great overall, which makes that sixth even more disappointing, as those were his first two walks of the game.
The offense continued to flounder against the Rockies' pen and Suter got the seventh and was able to work a scoreless frame, as four soft grounders led to a single, double-play, single, and groundout. former Brave Jimmy Herget got the ball for Colorado in the seventh and allowed a swinging bunt single to Harris before there was a game delay due to the home plate umpire being hit in the mask with a foul tip, checked for a concussion, and ultimately replaced.
After the break, Ozzie battled from being down 0-2 and was ultimately hit in the shin pad by a slider, taking first. Yastrzemski produced some karma for the Rockies, as a swinging bunt to the pitcher produced a double-play, leaving Harris on third with two outs for Austin Riley. Austin walked and Lane Thomas got his second plate appearance after pinch-hitting for Dom Smith earlier in the game. Austin stole second to put two runners in scoring position, but Lane struck out looking to end the inning, with Atlanta still looking for that elusive first run. Suter continued to pitch into the eighth and worked another scoreless frame, doing tremendous work out of the bullpen, even as the offense was quiet.
Singles from Olson and Dubon presented another opportunity with runners on the corners and two outs in the eighth for Harris. Money Mike came through with a double off the glove of a diving Colorado outfielder, scoring Olson and Dubon for a 2-1 lead.
#Rockies #Colorado #perez #game
2 months ago
India have won seven of the nine Women's Asia Cup editions played so far, across ODI and T20I formats, making them the most successful team in the history of the tournament.
Given the historic dominance of the Indian team in the tournament, former India cricketer and ex-women's team coach WV Raman believes anything less than a **** le in the upcoming 2026 Women's Asia Cup would be a "major disappointment" for Harmanpreet Kaur's team.
"Pakistan and Sri Lanka will be tough competition for India, and let's not also discount Thailand, because they've shown a lot of enthusiasm, they've shown they've got some real good talent there, and you cannot take them lightly, too. As far as the Indian team is concerned, I think anything less than a victory will be seen as a major disappointment," Raman said in an exclusive interview with TimesofIndia.com, organised by Sony Sports Network.
India lost the 2024 Women's Asia Cup final to Chamari Athapaththu's Sri Lanka by eight wickets in Dambulla, and Raman said "India can regain the Asia Cup" in Dubai.
However, the road ahead is not as smooth for India as it seems. India have been missing two of their pace-bowling all-rounders, Amanjot Kaur and Kashvee Gautam, for over five months, and just before the Asia Cup they faced another setback as Jemimah Rodrigues was also ruled out of the tournament due to a hamstring injury.
Pratika Rawal has received her maiden India T20I call-up as Jemimah was ruled out of the tournament, and is expected to walk straight into the playing XI when India face Thailand on Sunday. However, the bigger question is where the right-handed batter fits into India's batting order.
"Pratika Rawal has done extremely well in Test cricket. She's done well in ODIs, but in T20s, we haven't seen much of her so far. And also the other thing that they need to work out is her slot in the batting order. So where does she bat is something they've got to try and work out," former women's team coach Raman said.
Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana will most likely not be separated as an opening pair, and Bharti Fulmali and Richa Ghosh could play the role of lower-order enforcers. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur bats at four when Jemimah plays at three in T20Is; however, Raman argued that Kaur should instead bat at three in the Asia Cup.
"I doubt if they will have Pratika Rawal at number three. I would rather imagine that Harmanpreet Kaur herself might bat at number three because she needs to spend a lot of time there at the crease, have more overs at her disposal to try and pace the innings," WV Raman said in an interview with TimesofIndia.com, adding, "Will India play Pratika at number four is something that will be a big question. As I see it, they need to obviously find ways and methods to use the 20 overs allotted to them in the most productive manner possible. So it's up to them to try and see."
Fulmali ended her seven-year exile from international cricket earlier this year when she was picked
Given the historic dominance of the Indian team in the tournament, former India cricketer and ex-women's team coach WV Raman believes anything less than a **** le in the upcoming 2026 Women's Asia Cup would be a "major disappointment" for Harmanpreet Kaur's team.
"Pakistan and Sri Lanka will be tough competition for India, and let's not also discount Thailand, because they've shown a lot of enthusiasm, they've shown they've got some real good talent there, and you cannot take them lightly, too. As far as the Indian team is concerned, I think anything less than a victory will be seen as a major disappointment," Raman said in an exclusive interview with TimesofIndia.com, organised by Sony Sports Network.
India lost the 2024 Women's Asia Cup final to Chamari Athapaththu's Sri Lanka by eight wickets in Dambulla, and Raman said "India can regain the Asia Cup" in Dubai.
However, the road ahead is not as smooth for India as it seems. India have been missing two of their pace-bowling all-rounders, Amanjot Kaur and Kashvee Gautam, for over five months, and just before the Asia Cup they faced another setback as Jemimah Rodrigues was also ruled out of the tournament due to a hamstring injury.
Pratika Rawal has received her maiden India T20I call-up as Jemimah was ruled out of the tournament, and is expected to walk straight into the playing XI when India face Thailand on Sunday. However, the bigger question is where the right-handed batter fits into India's batting order.
"Pratika Rawal has done extremely well in Test cricket. She's done well in ODIs, but in T20s, we haven't seen much of her so far. And also the other thing that they need to work out is her slot in the batting order. So where does she bat is something they've got to try and work out," former women's team coach Raman said.
Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana will most likely not be separated as an opening pair, and Bharti Fulmali and Richa Ghosh could play the role of lower-order enforcers. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur bats at four when Jemimah plays at three in T20Is; however, Raman argued that Kaur should instead bat at three in the Asia Cup.
"I doubt if they will have Pratika Rawal at number three. I would rather imagine that Harmanpreet Kaur herself might bat at number three because she needs to spend a lot of time there at the crease, have more overs at her disposal to try and pace the innings," WV Raman said in an interview with TimesofIndia.com, adding, "Will India play Pratika at number four is something that will be a big question. As I see it, they need to obviously find ways and methods to use the 20 overs allotted to them in the most productive manner possible. So it's up to them to try and see."
Fulmali ended her seven-year exile from international cricket earlier this year when she was picked
2 months ago
Former England captain Michael Atherton has revealed why he joined a group of 21 former international cricketers in calling on Pakistani authorities to ensure imprisoned former Pakistan captain and Prime Minister Imran Khan receives proper medical treatment.
Imran has been in prison since 2023 after being convicted in corruption cases, charges he has vehemently denied. Concerns over his health have grown in recent months, with reports earlier this year claiming that he had lost sight in one eye.
The reports prompted former cricketers to appeal to the authorities for his medical care. Last week, 21 former international players again wrote to the authorities after Imran was reportedly taken to a hospital following an order from the country's top court, but was allegedly not properly examined.
Atherton, speaking on a Sky Sports cricket podcast alongside former England captain Nasser Hussain, said the appeal was not simply about ensuring medical treatment for Imran. He also expressed concern over what he described as an attempt to erase the former Pakistan leader from public life.
"Nass [Nasser Hussain] and I were among 21 former captains who sent a second letter yesterday, a humanitarian appeal for Imran Khan to get the requisite level of treatment. But I suppose the basic theme was the way the state has tried to airbrush Imran almost out of existence, which is increasingly difficult to do in a social media age," Atherton said on a Sky Sports cricket podcast in the company of Hussain.
The group included several prominent former cricketers from across the cricketing world. Former India captains Kapil Dev, Sunil Gavaskar and Dilip Vengsarkar were also among those who signed the appeal.
The involvement of the three Indian cricketers was particularly notable given the political tensions between India and Pakistan and Imran's own history as Pakistan's prime minister.
Kapil explained why he felt compelled to support his former cricketing rival and friend, while also acknowledging that Pakistani cricketers could be in a difficult position if they spoke publicly.
"I don't blame Pakistani cricketers for not speaking up. They have to live there. But I would like to support my friend, whom we admired and played with," Kapil said.
The former India captain stressed that the appeal was not about intervening in Pakistan's legal process but about ensuring basic care and dignity for a prisoner.
"We don't know the law of the country, that's fine. But humility and simple facilities should be given to a prisoner, whoever he may be. And he was a former prime minister of the country and a top cricketer.
"We want him to get the best treatment, [that's] what we are asking for. We are not asking for anything else, we are not asking for any replies, we are requesting," the former India captain added.
Imran led Pakistan to their only men's ODI World Cup ***** le in 1992 and was considered one of the finest all-rounders the game has ever s
Imran has been in prison since 2023 after being convicted in corruption cases, charges he has vehemently denied. Concerns over his health have grown in recent months, with reports earlier this year claiming that he had lost sight in one eye.
The reports prompted former cricketers to appeal to the authorities for his medical care. Last week, 21 former international players again wrote to the authorities after Imran was reportedly taken to a hospital following an order from the country's top court, but was allegedly not properly examined.
Atherton, speaking on a Sky Sports cricket podcast alongside former England captain Nasser Hussain, said the appeal was not simply about ensuring medical treatment for Imran. He also expressed concern over what he described as an attempt to erase the former Pakistan leader from public life.
"Nass [Nasser Hussain] and I were among 21 former captains who sent a second letter yesterday, a humanitarian appeal for Imran Khan to get the requisite level of treatment. But I suppose the basic theme was the way the state has tried to airbrush Imran almost out of existence, which is increasingly difficult to do in a social media age," Atherton said on a Sky Sports cricket podcast in the company of Hussain.
The group included several prominent former cricketers from across the cricketing world. Former India captains Kapil Dev, Sunil Gavaskar and Dilip Vengsarkar were also among those who signed the appeal.
The involvement of the three Indian cricketers was particularly notable given the political tensions between India and Pakistan and Imran's own history as Pakistan's prime minister.
Kapil explained why he felt compelled to support his former cricketing rival and friend, while also acknowledging that Pakistani cricketers could be in a difficult position if they spoke publicly.
"I don't blame Pakistani cricketers for not speaking up. They have to live there. But I would like to support my friend, whom we admired and played with," Kapil said.
The former India captain stressed that the appeal was not about intervening in Pakistan's legal process but about ensuring basic care and dignity for a prisoner.
"We don't know the law of the country, that's fine. But humility and simple facilities should be given to a prisoner, whoever he may be. And he was a former prime minister of the country and a top cricketer.
"We want him to get the best treatment, [that's] what we are asking for. We are not asking for anything else, we are not asking for any replies, we are requesting," the former India captain added.
Imran led Pakistan to their only men's ODI World Cup ***** le in 1992 and was considered one of the finest all-rounders the game has ever s
2 months ago
The lopsided pitching matchup didn't materialize, but it turned out not to matter, as big bats beat big arms.
As he crossed into more innings than he had pitched all of last season (134) Sean Burke had his worst start since June 13, giving up four earned runs on five hits and three walks in 4 1/3 innings that took him 72 pitches. His velocity was off a couple of ticks and his command wasn't terrific, either. The first and biggest blow was a two-run triple in the second on Brett Callahan's first major league pitch. Callahan then was knocked in on a Max Clark single to make it 3-0 (Callahan's next time up he was called out on strikes by home plate umpire Adam Beck on a clear ball, but his attempt at a challenge was declared too late by Beck, who had a terrible day overall.)
The Sox got one run back on a Tristan Peters opposite-field pop-up ground-rule double (those corners in Comerica are really short) and two grounders. The Tigers got it back to 4-1 on an opposite-field homer off Sam Antonacci's glove by Colt Keith in the third, then in the fifth they learned why the dreaded leadoff walk is so dreaded: Tigers starter Drew Anderson, at his highest pitch count all year, pinned Peters down 0-2 then threw four straight ****** , followed by a slider that didn't slide that Drew Romo slid 386 feet to right to make it 4-3.
A Randal Grichuk pinch-double and Colson Montgomery broken-bat single in the sixth tied the game. Next, Tigers lefty reliever Todd Holton again proved the dreaded-leadoff-walk rule by giving Antonacci (who doesn't hit lefties well) a five-pitch pass and following that by setting one on a tee for Munetaka Murakami, only to see it land 393 feet away. Make it 6-4, White Sox.
The Tigers cut it to 6-5 in the seventh when Dillon Dingler broke an 0-for-29 slump with a double to score Gleyber Torres, at which point Mune proved he's not just another pretty bat:
#drew
As he crossed into more innings than he had pitched all of last season (134) Sean Burke had his worst start since June 13, giving up four earned runs on five hits and three walks in 4 1/3 innings that took him 72 pitches. His velocity was off a couple of ticks and his command wasn't terrific, either. The first and biggest blow was a two-run triple in the second on Brett Callahan's first major league pitch. Callahan then was knocked in on a Max Clark single to make it 3-0 (Callahan's next time up he was called out on strikes by home plate umpire Adam Beck on a clear ball, but his attempt at a challenge was declared too late by Beck, who had a terrible day overall.)
The Sox got one run back on a Tristan Peters opposite-field pop-up ground-rule double (those corners in Comerica are really short) and two grounders. The Tigers got it back to 4-1 on an opposite-field homer off Sam Antonacci's glove by Colt Keith in the third, then in the fifth they learned why the dreaded leadoff walk is so dreaded: Tigers starter Drew Anderson, at his highest pitch count all year, pinned Peters down 0-2 then threw four straight ****** , followed by a slider that didn't slide that Drew Romo slid 386 feet to right to make it 4-3.
A Randal Grichuk pinch-double and Colson Montgomery broken-bat single in the sixth tied the game. Next, Tigers lefty reliever Todd Holton again proved the dreaded-leadoff-walk rule by giving Antonacci (who doesn't hit lefties well) a five-pitch pass and following that by setting one on a tee for Munetaka Murakami, only to see it land 393 feet away. Make it 6-4, White Sox.
The Tigers cut it to 6-5 in the seventh when Dillon Dingler broke an 0-for-29 slump with a double to score Gleyber Torres, at which point Mune proved he's not just another pretty bat:
#drew
2 months ago
The Brooklyn Nets are in the slow part of the offseason now that the 2026 NBA Draft, summer circuit play, and free-agency are in the rearview mirror at this point. Brooklyn is still in the early stages of the rebuild and they have already added forward Julius Randle to the mix, but there is still one area of the team that has to be addressed at some point next year.
"Egor Demin is the likeliest of Brooklyn's 2025 selections to make good on his potential. He proved he could stripe it from deep and make the right connective passes last season, and his Summer League performance showed he'd added new dimensions as an attacker and inside-the-arc finisher," Grant Hughes wrote for Bleacher Report on the Nets. It seems that Demin is looked at favorably by most around the league, but the same can't be said about the rest of the class.
"To put it charitably, the jury is still out on the rest of Brooklyn's first-rounders. Nolan Traore, Drake Powell, Ben Saraf and Danny Wolf are all in line for pivotal second seasons," Hughes continued. "You don't make final determinations on sophomores, especially when their developmental paths are complicated by so much positional overlap."
Over the course of this summer, the Nets have been able to see what Powell, Saraf, and Wolf look like against NBA competition heading into their second year in the ****** ociation. Traore was unable to play in the California Classic and Las Vegas Summer League due to a scope on his right knee, but Powell, Saraf, and Wolf were able to see plenty of reps. However, the trend continues that most around the league are not fond of what they've seen thus far.
"But Brooklyn needs to see something promising from at least one of these guys to validate its controversial approach of making (and keeping) five first-round selections in the 2025 draft," Hughes wrote. The Nets have drafted eight players over the past two seasons and with Tyler Bilodeau on a Two-Way deal, Brooklyn has to find playing time for seven of their youngest players. Next season will be interesting to watch given the massive investment the franchise made in the 2025 class.
#hughes #saraf
"Egor Demin is the likeliest of Brooklyn's 2025 selections to make good on his potential. He proved he could stripe it from deep and make the right connective passes last season, and his Summer League performance showed he'd added new dimensions as an attacker and inside-the-arc finisher," Grant Hughes wrote for Bleacher Report on the Nets. It seems that Demin is looked at favorably by most around the league, but the same can't be said about the rest of the class.
"To put it charitably, the jury is still out on the rest of Brooklyn's first-rounders. Nolan Traore, Drake Powell, Ben Saraf and Danny Wolf are all in line for pivotal second seasons," Hughes continued. "You don't make final determinations on sophomores, especially when their developmental paths are complicated by so much positional overlap."
Over the course of this summer, the Nets have been able to see what Powell, Saraf, and Wolf look like against NBA competition heading into their second year in the ****** ociation. Traore was unable to play in the California Classic and Las Vegas Summer League due to a scope on his right knee, but Powell, Saraf, and Wolf were able to see plenty of reps. However, the trend continues that most around the league are not fond of what they've seen thus far.
"But Brooklyn needs to see something promising from at least one of these guys to validate its controversial approach of making (and keeping) five first-round selections in the 2025 draft," Hughes wrote. The Nets have drafted eight players over the past two seasons and with Tyler Bilodeau on a Two-Way deal, Brooklyn has to find playing time for seven of their youngest players. Next season will be interesting to watch given the massive investment the franchise made in the 2025 class.
#hughes #saraf
3 months ago
TimesofIndia.com in Galle: India's road to the World Test Championship (WTC) final enters the home stretch from the historic city of Galle, and captain Shubman Gill has an uphill task over the next few months. The WTC final is mathematically still within India's reach but would need a performance for the ages in the next few months, starting with the series opener in Galle on August 15.
The scenario is simple: win seven out of the next nine Test matches to secure the final berth. Even though the immediate challenge involves Galle, crosswinds and frequent rain interruptions, Gill and Co. have their eyes locked on the target, the "main goal".
"The main goal is to play the WTC final, which is next year. And we have got about nine Tests and I think we have to win around six or seven to be able to have a good chance at qualifying. So in terms of that, I think it's a very important series for us," said Gill at the pre-match press conference.
Gill is taking giant strides forward as a leader, which is reflected in how the team has prepared for the series. The captain has vocally criticised the packed scheduling and how it has robbed the side of ideal preparation before an important series in the past. Sri Lanka, on that front, has come as a breath of fresh air, as the team has been camped in Colombo since August 4, where they trained hard at the Nondescripts Cricket Club (NCC) Ground, played a warm-up fixture and squeezed in two quality sessions in Galle.
"If we do have an opportunity and if the scheduling allows us to have at least a week or 10 days before the Test match starts, it obviously helps with the preparation. Even last year we had quite a busy schedule in terms of, you know, travelling, playing in England and playing the Asia Cup, then playing the Test match in India, going to Australia.
"And then playing the Test match within four days after returning from Australia. So it's never easy for the players to be able to adapt. And most of the players in this team, I think, require a bit of time to be able to adjust to the conditions. And it's not like a lot of the players have a lot of matches or a lot of experience under their belts. So the extra time in preparation definitely helps," added Gill.
Every player in the squad relies on high-volume preparation. The optional nets remained busy on the eve of the match as the likes of Gill, KL Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ravindra Jadeja, Gurnoor Brar, Manav Suthar and others applied the finishing touches hours before taking the field in very hot and humid conditions. India's squad, hit by injury concerns, is far from the first choice, but there is no dearth of quality in the 15 ***** embled by the men's senior selection committee.
Chairman Ajit Agarkar has been with the side in Galle, and there have been long chats involving the selector, coach and captain. For a team that has relied heavily on all-rounders to fill crucial slots, the first Test will be a rare occasion featuring
The scenario is simple: win seven out of the next nine Test matches to secure the final berth. Even though the immediate challenge involves Galle, crosswinds and frequent rain interruptions, Gill and Co. have their eyes locked on the target, the "main goal".
"The main goal is to play the WTC final, which is next year. And we have got about nine Tests and I think we have to win around six or seven to be able to have a good chance at qualifying. So in terms of that, I think it's a very important series for us," said Gill at the pre-match press conference.
Gill is taking giant strides forward as a leader, which is reflected in how the team has prepared for the series. The captain has vocally criticised the packed scheduling and how it has robbed the side of ideal preparation before an important series in the past. Sri Lanka, on that front, has come as a breath of fresh air, as the team has been camped in Colombo since August 4, where they trained hard at the Nondescripts Cricket Club (NCC) Ground, played a warm-up fixture and squeezed in two quality sessions in Galle.
"If we do have an opportunity and if the scheduling allows us to have at least a week or 10 days before the Test match starts, it obviously helps with the preparation. Even last year we had quite a busy schedule in terms of, you know, travelling, playing in England and playing the Asia Cup, then playing the Test match in India, going to Australia.
"And then playing the Test match within four days after returning from Australia. So it's never easy for the players to be able to adapt. And most of the players in this team, I think, require a bit of time to be able to adjust to the conditions. And it's not like a lot of the players have a lot of matches or a lot of experience under their belts. So the extra time in preparation definitely helps," added Gill.
Every player in the squad relies on high-volume preparation. The optional nets remained busy on the eve of the match as the likes of Gill, KL Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ravindra Jadeja, Gurnoor Brar, Manav Suthar and others applied the finishing touches hours before taking the field in very hot and humid conditions. India's squad, hit by injury concerns, is far from the first choice, but there is no dearth of quality in the 15 ***** embled by the men's senior selection committee.
Chairman Ajit Agarkar has been with the side in Galle, and there have been long chats involving the selector, coach and captain. For a team that has relied heavily on all-rounders to fill crucial slots, the first Test will be a rare occasion featuring
3 months ago
Test cricket returns to Australia's tropical Top End for the first time since 2003 when the hosts take on Bangladesh in a two-match series beginning Thursday.
The first Test at Marrara Stadium in Darwin will be Bangladesh's first Test tour of Australia in more than 20 years. It also starts a 12-month period in which Australia are scheduled to play at least 20 Tests, including series against South Africa, India and England.
Australia are set to bring back their main bowling attack, with Pat **** mins, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon returning from injuries. Mitchell Starc is also in the side.
Injuries have meant the four have rarely played together in recent series. Hazlewood's expected return means Scott Boland will miss out, while allrounders Cameron Green and Beau Webster are also in the starting XI.
"We know Scotty's class, it is always a pretty tight call," **** mins said at a press conference on Wednesday. "There is not much you can say to Scotty except there is a lot of cricket coming up.
"He knows his worth, and how good he is, and I am sure he will be out there at some point pretty soon."
Australia's bowling attack looks settled, but there are questions over the batting order.
Jake Weatherald, the first Test player from Australia's Northern Territory, has kept his place after Australia's Ashes win over England last season despite his recent form. He is expected to open with Travis Head.
Usman Khawaja's retirement has allowed Australia to play both Green and Webster in the same XI. Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith will bat at No. 3 and No. 4, with Labuschagne also looking for runs to strengthen his position in the side.
Bangladesh will be without Nahid Rana, Mustafizur Rahman and Shoriful Islam for the first Test. Shoriful could return for the second match in Mackay from August 22 to 26.
Rana, 23, is one of Bangladesh's quickest bowlers and was a key part of their ODI series win over Australia two months ago. He suffered a side strain during a T20I against Zimbabwe in July.
The series against Bangladesh begins a schedule of 20 Tests for Australia over the next 12 months, with another match possible if they qualify for the World Test Championship final.
After the second Bangladesh Test, Australia will tour South Africa for three Tests in October. They will then host New Zealand for four Tests before a five-Test series in India.
Australia will also play a one-off day-night Test against England at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in March to mark the 150th anniversary of matches between the two countries.
The schedule will conclude with an away Ashes series beginning in June.
#series #bangladesh #match #play
The first Test at Marrara Stadium in Darwin will be Bangladesh's first Test tour of Australia in more than 20 years. It also starts a 12-month period in which Australia are scheduled to play at least 20 Tests, including series against South Africa, India and England.
Australia are set to bring back their main bowling attack, with Pat **** mins, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon returning from injuries. Mitchell Starc is also in the side.
Injuries have meant the four have rarely played together in recent series. Hazlewood's expected return means Scott Boland will miss out, while allrounders Cameron Green and Beau Webster are also in the starting XI.
"We know Scotty's class, it is always a pretty tight call," **** mins said at a press conference on Wednesday. "There is not much you can say to Scotty except there is a lot of cricket coming up.
"He knows his worth, and how good he is, and I am sure he will be out there at some point pretty soon."
Australia's bowling attack looks settled, but there are questions over the batting order.
Jake Weatherald, the first Test player from Australia's Northern Territory, has kept his place after Australia's Ashes win over England last season despite his recent form. He is expected to open with Travis Head.
Usman Khawaja's retirement has allowed Australia to play both Green and Webster in the same XI. Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith will bat at No. 3 and No. 4, with Labuschagne also looking for runs to strengthen his position in the side.
Bangladesh will be without Nahid Rana, Mustafizur Rahman and Shoriful Islam for the first Test. Shoriful could return for the second match in Mackay from August 22 to 26.
Rana, 23, is one of Bangladesh's quickest bowlers and was a key part of their ODI series win over Australia two months ago. He suffered a side strain during a T20I against Zimbabwe in July.
The series against Bangladesh begins a schedule of 20 Tests for Australia over the next 12 months, with another match possible if they qualify for the World Test Championship final.
After the second Bangladesh Test, Australia will tour South Africa for three Tests in October. They will then host New Zealand for four Tests before a five-Test series in India.
Australia will also play a one-off day-night Test against England at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in March to mark the 150th anniversary of matches between the two countries.
The schedule will conclude with an away Ashes series beginning in June.
#series #bangladesh #match #play
3 months ago
Pakistan's successful Caribbean campaign has brought a significant boost in the latest ICC Men's Test Player Rankings, with captain Babar Azam returning to the top 10 while Abdullah Shafique and Sajid Khan also made notable gains. Babar's rise comes after Pakistan secured an eight-wicket victory over the West Indies in Port of Spain to level the two-match World Test Championship series 1-1. The right-handed batter played a crucial role in the win, scoring 88 in the first innings before remaining unbeaten on 24 during the chase.
The performance saw Babar climb five places to No. 10 in the Test batting rankings, marking his return to the elite top 10 for the first time since September 2024. Babar had spent five consecutive years inside the top 10 before dropping out of the group. He reached a career-high ranking of No. 2 in December 2022.
Babar's return to the top 10 provides a timely boost for Pakistan ahead of their upcoming Test ***** ignment against England. Abdullah Shafique and Sajid Khan also benefited from Pakistan's performance in the Caribbean, making notable movements in the latest rankings.
At the top of the Test batting rankings, Australia's Travis Head continues to hold the No. 1 position, while India's Jasprit ***** rah remains the leading Test bowler. Ravindra Jadeja continues to occupy the No. 1 spot in the Test all-rounders' rankings.
Pakistan have received another boost ahead of the England series, with experienced batter Shan Masood returning to training with the squad at Beckenham on Tuesday. Masood had sustained a finger injury during the opening Test against the West Indies in the Caribbean and subsequently missed the second match. Pakistan went on to register an eight-wicket victory in Port of Spain, securing their first away Test win in three years.
His return to training has raised hopes that Masood could be available for the opening Test against England in Leeds, which begins on August 19.
#england #boost
The performance saw Babar climb five places to No. 10 in the Test batting rankings, marking his return to the elite top 10 for the first time since September 2024. Babar had spent five consecutive years inside the top 10 before dropping out of the group. He reached a career-high ranking of No. 2 in December 2022.
Babar's return to the top 10 provides a timely boost for Pakistan ahead of their upcoming Test ***** ignment against England. Abdullah Shafique and Sajid Khan also benefited from Pakistan's performance in the Caribbean, making notable movements in the latest rankings.
At the top of the Test batting rankings, Australia's Travis Head continues to hold the No. 1 position, while India's Jasprit ***** rah remains the leading Test bowler. Ravindra Jadeja continues to occupy the No. 1 spot in the Test all-rounders' rankings.
Pakistan have received another boost ahead of the England series, with experienced batter Shan Masood returning to training with the squad at Beckenham on Tuesday. Masood had sustained a finger injury during the opening Test against the West Indies in the Caribbean and subsequently missed the second match. Pakistan went on to register an eight-wicket victory in Port of Spain, securing their first away Test win in three years.
His return to training has raised hopes that Masood could be available for the opening Test against England in Leeds, which begins on August 19.
#england #boost
3 months ago
Test cricket returns to Australia's tropical Top End for the first time since 2003 when the hosts face Bangladesh in a two-match series starting Thursday.
The series opener at Marrara Stadium in Darwin marks Bangladesh's first test tour Down Under in over two decades and kicks off a 12-month period of 20 test matches for the Aussies including tours of world test champion South Africa, India and England.
Australia's so-called Big Four could be reunited in the hosts bowling attack with Pat ******* mins, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon returning from injuries.
Pace bowlers ******* mins, Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc and offspinner Lyon have been the longtime front line attack for Australia but injuries have limited the frequency of all four combining in the same XI in recent series.
The inclusion of evergreen pace bowler Scott Boland in the squad, with allrounders Cameron Green and Beau Webster, gives Australia plenty of options with the ball.
#test #lyon #first #hosts
The series opener at Marrara Stadium in Darwin marks Bangladesh's first test tour Down Under in over two decades and kicks off a 12-month period of 20 test matches for the Aussies including tours of world test champion South Africa, India and England.
Australia's so-called Big Four could be reunited in the hosts bowling attack with Pat ******* mins, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon returning from injuries.
Pace bowlers ******* mins, Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc and offspinner Lyon have been the longtime front line attack for Australia but injuries have limited the frequency of all four combining in the same XI in recent series.
The inclusion of evergreen pace bowler Scott Boland in the squad, with allrounders Cameron Green and Beau Webster, gives Australia plenty of options with the ball.
#test #lyon #first #hosts
3 months ago
Wide receiver is a premium position in the NFL, and it has been reflected in the NFL draft, with 26 of them selected in the first round of the past five draft classes.
The stars of last year's rookie class came from Round 1 – Offensive Rookie of the Year Tetairoa McMillan and Emeka Egbuka were ranked first and second in receptions and receiving yards, and the Packers' Matthew Golden had a two-TD game in the playoffs. The Jaguars are still waiting for Travis Hunter to fully emerge, but it appears that they have big plans for him.
But it's also a position that showed its depth last year, and several non-first rounders – Isaac TeSlaa, Luther Burden, Jayden Higgins and more – also shined as rookies and figure to have bigger roles in Year 2.
So with all due respect to the five 2026 first-rounders at the position, including two top-10 picks, there might be more than meets the eye at receiver beyond that.
Thus far in training camp, a number of sub-Round 1 wideouts have stood out early. Are they flashes in the pan? Or promising signs of stronger-than-expected rookie juice? Let's have a look.
#rounders
The stars of last year's rookie class came from Round 1 – Offensive Rookie of the Year Tetairoa McMillan and Emeka Egbuka were ranked first and second in receptions and receiving yards, and the Packers' Matthew Golden had a two-TD game in the playoffs. The Jaguars are still waiting for Travis Hunter to fully emerge, but it appears that they have big plans for him.
But it's also a position that showed its depth last year, and several non-first rounders – Isaac TeSlaa, Luther Burden, Jayden Higgins and more – also shined as rookies and figure to have bigger roles in Year 2.
So with all due respect to the five 2026 first-rounders at the position, including two top-10 picks, there might be more than meets the eye at receiver beyond that.
Thus far in training camp, a number of sub-Round 1 wideouts have stood out early. Are they flashes in the pan? Or promising signs of stronger-than-expected rookie juice? Let's have a look.
#rounders
3 months ago
Former England captain Nasser Hussain never had any luck at the Cricket World Cup - but his brother Mel fancies his chances of getting one over his sibling this summer.
Nasser played in two World Cups - in 1999 and then, as captain, in 2003 - but England exited the tournament after the group stage on both occasions.
Older sibling Mel, 62, has already surpassed that in a sense, having reached the final of the Over-60s Cricket World Cup with England two years ago.
But can they go one better in this year's edition - which starts in Canada on Sunday with England again one of the pre-tournament favourites to pick up the trophy in 18 days' time?
"We've got an enormous batting order all the way down to seven and eight, and a lot of all-rounders, so as a squad we've got a lot of options," Mel, who is set to open the batting, told BBC Radio Essex.
#we 've #former
Nasser played in two World Cups - in 1999 and then, as captain, in 2003 - but England exited the tournament after the group stage on both occasions.
Older sibling Mel, 62, has already surpassed that in a sense, having reached the final of the Over-60s Cricket World Cup with England two years ago.
But can they go one better in this year's edition - which starts in Canada on Sunday with England again one of the pre-tournament favourites to pick up the trophy in 18 days' time?
"We've got an enormous batting order all the way down to seven and eight, and a lot of all-rounders, so as a squad we've got a lot of options," Mel, who is set to open the batting, told BBC Radio Essex.
#we 've #former
3 months ago
NEW DELHI: West Indies captain Roston Chase said his team's 90-run victory over Pakistan in the opening Test was a tribute to legendary all-rounder Garry Sobers, with the players determined to honour the cricket great. Sobers, widely regarded as one of the greatest all-rounders in the game's history, passed away on July 17 at the age of 89. Tuesday marked what would have been his 90th birthday.
Following West Indies' victory at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Chase revealed that the team had spoken about Sobers before the match.
"We wanted to make him proud and had a chat about it before the match. I hope he is smiling down on us."
Chase also thanked the fans who turned up to support the home side.
"I also want to thank the Trinidad crowd for coming out and supporting us. It was not a big crowd, but it gave us enough energy and support to go out there and perform," Chase said.
The win handed West Indies a 1-0 lead in the two-match Test series.
West Indies entered the Pakistan series after a 1-0 Test series victory over Sri Lanka, and Chase said the team's recent performances were the result of months of hard work.
"I think these two teams that we've played, Sri Lanka and Pakistan, they're closer to us in the rankings. I don't want to say they're teams we should beat, but I think it's a more even contest between us."
He further said, "The guys are confident and over the last few months we've been putting in some extra hard work. We had a camp as well before the Sri Lanka series and I think that really helped us become closer as a unit and also work on our weaknesses and improve our strengths as well. So I think that this is the upliftment of that practice and camp."
Fast bowlers dominated throughout the match at Tarouba, with all 40 wickets falling to seam bowling.
Justin Greaves starred with 5/27 in Pakistan's first innings, while Jayden Seales claimed 5/20 in the second innings. Together, they picked up 13 wickets.
Greaves also produced the rare achievement of bowling five successive wicket maidens in Pakistan's first innings.
Speaking about the conditions, Chase said, "I think it just goes to show that it was more friendly towards the seamers. The Pakistani spinner (Ali Usman) bowled a number of overs (13 in the first innings), he didn't get a wicket. (Jomel) Warrican bowled a few (18 across two innings), didn't get a wicket and didn't look too threatening as well. The (fast bowlers) really put the ball in the right areas and it paid off."
#west
Following West Indies' victory at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Chase revealed that the team had spoken about Sobers before the match.
"We wanted to make him proud and had a chat about it before the match. I hope he is smiling down on us."
Chase also thanked the fans who turned up to support the home side.
"I also want to thank the Trinidad crowd for coming out and supporting us. It was not a big crowd, but it gave us enough energy and support to go out there and perform," Chase said.
The win handed West Indies a 1-0 lead in the two-match Test series.
West Indies entered the Pakistan series after a 1-0 Test series victory over Sri Lanka, and Chase said the team's recent performances were the result of months of hard work.
"I think these two teams that we've played, Sri Lanka and Pakistan, they're closer to us in the rankings. I don't want to say they're teams we should beat, but I think it's a more even contest between us."
He further said, "The guys are confident and over the last few months we've been putting in some extra hard work. We had a camp as well before the Sri Lanka series and I think that really helped us become closer as a unit and also work on our weaknesses and improve our strengths as well. So I think that this is the upliftment of that practice and camp."
Fast bowlers dominated throughout the match at Tarouba, with all 40 wickets falling to seam bowling.
Justin Greaves starred with 5/27 in Pakistan's first innings, while Jayden Seales claimed 5/20 in the second innings. Together, they picked up 13 wickets.
Greaves also produced the rare achievement of bowling five successive wicket maidens in Pakistan's first innings.
Speaking about the conditions, Chase said, "I think it just goes to show that it was more friendly towards the seamers. The Pakistani spinner (Ali Usman) bowled a number of overs (13 in the first innings), he didn't get a wicket. (Jomel) Warrican bowled a few (18 across two innings), didn't get a wicket and didn't look too threatening as well. The (fast bowlers) really put the ball in the right areas and it paid off."
#west
3 months ago
Middlesex, Durham and Leicestershire joined Nottinghamshire with two wins from two in the One-Day Cup by winning their respective matches on Friday, while champions Worcestershire and Kent made victorious starts to their campaigns.
Matches do not get much better for all-rounders than the one enjoyed by Josh de Caires as he delivered career-best List A figures with bat and ball to keep Middlesex unbeaten.
De Caires, son of former England captain Michael Atherton, hit 75 as Middlesex racked up 284-8 against Hampshire and then returned with the ball to take 6-35 as Middlesex won by 160 runs.
Both were career-bests for De Caires, who also moved past his father's best bowling figures in the format of 4-42 for Combined Universities against Somerset in 1989.
Former England Test captain Ben Stokes continues to thrive at Durham, with the all-rounder hitting five sixes in his 73 not out in 51 **** against Sussex, adding to his unbeaten century against Derbyshire on Tuesday.
#best #ball
Matches do not get much better for all-rounders than the one enjoyed by Josh de Caires as he delivered career-best List A figures with bat and ball to keep Middlesex unbeaten.
De Caires, son of former England captain Michael Atherton, hit 75 as Middlesex racked up 284-8 against Hampshire and then returned with the ball to take 6-35 as Middlesex won by 160 runs.
Both were career-bests for De Caires, who also moved past his father's best bowling figures in the format of 4-42 for Combined Universities against Somerset in 1989.
Former England Test captain Ben Stokes continues to thrive at Durham, with the all-rounder hitting five sixes in his 73 not out in 51 **** against Sussex, adding to his unbeaten century against Derbyshire on Tuesday.
#best #ball
3 months ago
NEW DELHI: India's stand-in bowling coach Sunil Joshi has urged everyone to keep the spotlight firmly on Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's batting, lavishing praise on the teenage sensation after his record-breaking knock in the opening T20I against Zimbabwe while revealing that the youngster's bowling will be developed gradually at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE).
Sooryavanshi lit up the Harare Sports Club with a breathtaking 18-ball half-century, becoming the youngest player to score a T20I fifty. His whirlwind innings, featuring four fours and four sixes, turned India's chase of 126 into a one-sided affair as the reigning T20 World Cup champions sealed victory with 40 ****** to spare and took a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
Ahead of the second T20I, Joshi said the teenager's explosive batting should remain the primary focus.
"I think the first thing is, let's focus on his batting. He's been sensational and I'm glad that he has done well. This is a happy hunting ground for him. He performed well in the U19 World Cup finals here. He had a good performance yesterday as well," Joshi told reporters.
The former India spinner also disclosed that Sooryavanshi's bowling is part of the long-term plan.
"Vaibhav has been very comfortable with his batting. Whenever we get time in his bowling, I'll work with him in the CoE. Whenever we see him bowling well, we'll definitely and quickly focus on that," he said.
Joshi also called for patience with emerging seam-bowling all-rounder Suryansh Shedge, who has drawn comparisons with established stars such as Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube.
The stand-in bowling coach insisted every player has their own journey and warned against making premature comparisons.
"Look, we shouldn't compare. Suryansh is making his place in the Indian team. Hardik has made his place. Shivam has also made his place. So, he's a rising talent. We have to persist with him. He's working on good things and good areas. That's what we want in the T20 format," he said.
Joshi also highlighted the bowling depth available in India's squad, pointing to top-order batters Abhishek Sharma and Tilak Varma, who can also contribute with the ball.
"I think all three are good bowlers and all-rounders, although Abhishek Sharma has improved a lot. The coaches always want him to improve every time for the better. We also have Tilak Varma with us. He's another optional bowler. We have conversations with him about not giving too many runs, bowling more dot ****** , and focusing on the basics," he further added.
Joshi also praised leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi, revealing that a minor adjustment to his run-up helped him bounce back after a difficult outing against England earlier this month.
Bishnoi endured a forgettable spell of 0/60 in Manchester, where England batter Jacob Bethell smashed 29 runs in a single over. However, the leg-spinner responded impressively in Harare with figures of 1/24 from four overs.
According to Joshi, t
Sooryavanshi lit up the Harare Sports Club with a breathtaking 18-ball half-century, becoming the youngest player to score a T20I fifty. His whirlwind innings, featuring four fours and four sixes, turned India's chase of 126 into a one-sided affair as the reigning T20 World Cup champions sealed victory with 40 ****** to spare and took a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
Ahead of the second T20I, Joshi said the teenager's explosive batting should remain the primary focus.
"I think the first thing is, let's focus on his batting. He's been sensational and I'm glad that he has done well. This is a happy hunting ground for him. He performed well in the U19 World Cup finals here. He had a good performance yesterday as well," Joshi told reporters.
The former India spinner also disclosed that Sooryavanshi's bowling is part of the long-term plan.
"Vaibhav has been very comfortable with his batting. Whenever we get time in his bowling, I'll work with him in the CoE. Whenever we see him bowling well, we'll definitely and quickly focus on that," he said.
Joshi also called for patience with emerging seam-bowling all-rounder Suryansh Shedge, who has drawn comparisons with established stars such as Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube.
The stand-in bowling coach insisted every player has their own journey and warned against making premature comparisons.
"Look, we shouldn't compare. Suryansh is making his place in the Indian team. Hardik has made his place. Shivam has also made his place. So, he's a rising talent. We have to persist with him. He's working on good things and good areas. That's what we want in the T20 format," he said.
Joshi also highlighted the bowling depth available in India's squad, pointing to top-order batters Abhishek Sharma and Tilak Varma, who can also contribute with the ball.
"I think all three are good bowlers and all-rounders, although Abhishek Sharma has improved a lot. The coaches always want him to improve every time for the better. We also have Tilak Varma with us. He's another optional bowler. We have conversations with him about not giving too many runs, bowling more dot ****** , and focusing on the basics," he further added.
Joshi also praised leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi, revealing that a minor adjustment to his run-up helped him bounce back after a difficult outing against England earlier this month.
Bishnoi endured a forgettable spell of 0/60 in Manchester, where England batter Jacob Bethell smashed 29 runs in a single over. However, the leg-spinner responded impressively in Harare with figures of 1/24 from four overs.
According to Joshi, t
3 months ago
The Brooklyn Nets are now moving on with the rest of their offseason with the 2026 Las Vegas Summer League in the rearview mirror following a successful summer circuit. Brooklyn has made various moves over the course of the summer, including trading for Minnesota Timberwolves forward Julius Randle, and one of the ****** istant coaches approves of where the roster is at right now.
"What we’re excited about is the depth of legitimate NBA rotation players and potential rotation players we have now," a Nets ****** istant coach said of the team, according to Keith Smith of Spotrac. As the roster stands as of this writing, the starting lineup could be Mikel Brown Jr., Egor Demin, Michael Porter Jr., Julius Randle, and Day'Ron Sharpe.
"Not to speak ill of last year’s team, but we were down to rookies and non-NBA-level players by the end of the year. This year, we’ve got depth and the kids are improving too," the ****** istant coach continued, per Smith. Brooklyn finished the 2025-26 season with a lowly 20-62 record, rewarding them with the No. 6 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, allowing them to take Brown.
To the ****** istant coach's point, the Nets have re-signed Sharpe and forward Josh Minott while adding Randle, guard Keon Ellis, and center Mo Wagner (while his deal hasn't been officially announced yet). More to the point, Brooklyn has moved on from center Nic Claxton (who they traded to the Chicago Bulls as part of the four-team deal with the Timberwolves and Charlotte Hornets) while forward Ziaire Williams signed with the Los Angeles Lakers in free-agency.
The Nets also added forwards Joshua Jefferson and Tyler Bilodeau in the 2026 draft to go along with the five first-rounders they took in the 2025 class that the team is hoping breaks through at some point. Time will tell how good this current roster will be next season but as it stands now, one of Brooklyn's ****** istant coaches believes that this roster is better than the one from last season.
#assistant #team #forward #year
"What we’re excited about is the depth of legitimate NBA rotation players and potential rotation players we have now," a Nets ****** istant coach said of the team, according to Keith Smith of Spotrac. As the roster stands as of this writing, the starting lineup could be Mikel Brown Jr., Egor Demin, Michael Porter Jr., Julius Randle, and Day'Ron Sharpe.
"Not to speak ill of last year’s team, but we were down to rookies and non-NBA-level players by the end of the year. This year, we’ve got depth and the kids are improving too," the ****** istant coach continued, per Smith. Brooklyn finished the 2025-26 season with a lowly 20-62 record, rewarding them with the No. 6 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, allowing them to take Brown.
To the ****** istant coach's point, the Nets have re-signed Sharpe and forward Josh Minott while adding Randle, guard Keon Ellis, and center Mo Wagner (while his deal hasn't been officially announced yet). More to the point, Brooklyn has moved on from center Nic Claxton (who they traded to the Chicago Bulls as part of the four-team deal with the Timberwolves and Charlotte Hornets) while forward Ziaire Williams signed with the Los Angeles Lakers in free-agency.
The Nets also added forwards Joshua Jefferson and Tyler Bilodeau in the 2026 draft to go along with the five first-rounders they took in the 2025 class that the team is hoping breaks through at some point. Time will tell how good this current roster will be next season but as it stands now, one of Brooklyn's ****** istant coaches believes that this roster is better than the one from last season.
#assistant #team #forward #year
3 months ago
'Stop using bits and pieces players': R. Ashwin drops truth bomb on Gautam Gambhir's team selection strategy originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
R Ashwin criticises Gautam Gambhir's reliance on 'bits and pieces' cricketers.
India lost ODI series 2-1 to England to cap off a dismal UK tour.
Ex-spinner wants a fixed 17-18 player pool for the next 14 months.
Former India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has called on head coach Gautam Gambhir to move away from filling the squad with makeshift all-rounders, as he believes the approach is a genuine concern heading into preparations for next year's ODI World Cup.
#ashwin #gautam #pieces #next
R Ashwin criticises Gautam Gambhir's reliance on 'bits and pieces' cricketers.
India lost ODI series 2-1 to England to cap off a dismal UK tour.
Ex-spinner wants a fixed 17-18 player pool for the next 14 months.
Former India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has called on head coach Gautam Gambhir to move away from filling the squad with makeshift all-rounders, as he believes the approach is a genuine concern heading into preparations for next year's ODI World Cup.
#ashwin #gautam #pieces #next
4 months ago
TimesofIndia.com in Birmingham: All-rounders Axar Patel and Washington Sundar successfully guided Team India to a 259-run chase in the first ODI against England at Edgbaston in Birmingham on Tuesday. The six-wicket victory ended India's three-week winless streak in the UK, where they had suffered a 0-2 defeat to Ireland and a 0-4 whitewash against England in the T20I series. The win also extended India's unbeaten run against England in ODIs to six consecutive victories while ending England's seven-match winning streak at Edgbaston.
The 102-run stand between Axar and Washington for the fifth wicket, under the blazing sun, lifted the proverbial clouds that had briefly converged over India's march towards victory. In a matter of 20 minutes, India lost skipper Shubman Gill to cramps, Shreyas Iyer to a run-out, and KL Rahul, who dragged a wide delivery onto his stumps. India went from 149/2 to 160/4 in a jiffy, with the trio back in the hut. England, who had been pegged back by the 101-run partnership between Gill (80 off 75 ****** ) and Iyer (35 off 53 ****** ), were suddenly roaring in celebration, as were the 20,744 in attendance. 'Wonderwall', 'It's Coming Home' and 'Hey Jude' echoed around the ground as the FIFA World Cup fever, fuelled by Harry Kane & Co.'s run to the semi-finals, blended with England's surge at Edgbaston.
With 99 runs still required, the challenge was less about the required run rate of 4.5 an over and more about handling the sudden pressure after the loss of three quick wickets. Both Axar and Washington had just arrived at the crease and faced a daunting task. Instead of being bogged down, the southpaws, the first left-handers in India's XI after the quartet of right-handers, tackled the situation with aplomb.
The duo saw off Will Jacks and Sam Curran, with the four overs yielding just nine runs. Adil Rashid's reintroduction allowed Washington to free his arms with a boundary and a nine-run over. The next two overs, as Curran and Jacks continued, yielded 18 runs, with the duo's confidence evidently growing.
Axar was the main man at this stage. A slog sweep off Jacks and consecutive boundaries off Jofra Archer meant the runs were starting to flow comfortably. At the other end, Washington enjoyed watching his teammate bat.
"The way he batted was magical and it was a treat for me to watch from the other end," he said at the post-match press conference.
The next four overs reflected the same level-headed approach. As the fifty-run partnership came and went, the duo collected nine runs in three overs while seeing off Archer's full quota of 10 overs. The following two overs produced another 19 runs, allowing Axar and Washington to slow things down again over the next three overs.
Having navigated the chase to perfection, the duo grew in confidence and momentum, fittingly capped by Washington's cracking shot in the 45th over that sealed the match. A floated delivery from Adil Rashid was too full and in the slot for
The 102-run stand between Axar and Washington for the fifth wicket, under the blazing sun, lifted the proverbial clouds that had briefly converged over India's march towards victory. In a matter of 20 minutes, India lost skipper Shubman Gill to cramps, Shreyas Iyer to a run-out, and KL Rahul, who dragged a wide delivery onto his stumps. India went from 149/2 to 160/4 in a jiffy, with the trio back in the hut. England, who had been pegged back by the 101-run partnership between Gill (80 off 75 ****** ) and Iyer (35 off 53 ****** ), were suddenly roaring in celebration, as were the 20,744 in attendance. 'Wonderwall', 'It's Coming Home' and 'Hey Jude' echoed around the ground as the FIFA World Cup fever, fuelled by Harry Kane & Co.'s run to the semi-finals, blended with England's surge at Edgbaston.
With 99 runs still required, the challenge was less about the required run rate of 4.5 an over and more about handling the sudden pressure after the loss of three quick wickets. Both Axar and Washington had just arrived at the crease and faced a daunting task. Instead of being bogged down, the southpaws, the first left-handers in India's XI after the quartet of right-handers, tackled the situation with aplomb.
The duo saw off Will Jacks and Sam Curran, with the four overs yielding just nine runs. Adil Rashid's reintroduction allowed Washington to free his arms with a boundary and a nine-run over. The next two overs, as Curran and Jacks continued, yielded 18 runs, with the duo's confidence evidently growing.
Axar was the main man at this stage. A slog sweep off Jacks and consecutive boundaries off Jofra Archer meant the runs were starting to flow comfortably. At the other end, Washington enjoyed watching his teammate bat.
"The way he batted was magical and it was a treat for me to watch from the other end," he said at the post-match press conference.
The next four overs reflected the same level-headed approach. As the fifty-run partnership came and went, the duo collected nine runs in three overs while seeing off Archer's full quota of 10 overs. The following two overs produced another 19 runs, allowing Axar and Washington to slow things down again over the next three overs.
Having navigated the chase to perfection, the duo grew in confidence and momentum, fittingly capped by Washington's cracking shot in the 45th over that sealed the match. A floated delivery from Adil Rashid was too full and in the slot for
4 months ago
LAS VEGAS -- In case one has been living under a rock, the Philadelphia 76ers have acquired Jaylen Brown from the Boston Celtics in the big blockbuster move of the summer. The Sixers only had to give up Paul George, two first-rounders, and two second-rounders in order to acquire one of the premier players in the game coming off a career season inn 2025-26 season.
With the Celtics expected to be in a "gap year" amidst the Jayson Tatum injury, Brown decided to throw Boston on his back and average 28.7 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 5.1 **** ists to lead the Cs to a 56-26 record and the No. 2 seed in the East. He was fantastic in Round 1 against Philadelphia as well and his addition changes a lot for the Sixers.
Dominick Barlow, who is going to be a key piece for the Sixers in the coming season, gave his thoughts on the Brown addition while working out in Las Vegas.
"Things happen fast," said Barlow. "I don't know if that's something that you know we expected to happen, but here we are, and I mean it's exciting. Obviously, he's an elite player, MVP candidate this year. His team was really good without Tatum. So I thought he did an excellent job in leading that group, and I'm super excited to have him."
As with any big addition, there will be some adjustments that need to be made. Brown will be joining a team that features high-usage players in Tyrese Maxey and Joel Embiid along with the budding VJ Edgecombe. The Sixers will have to find a way to help him find his niche, but on the flip side, that shouldn't be hard when considering how smart Brown is and the high IQ he possesses.
With the Celtics expected to be in a "gap year" amidst the Jayson Tatum injury, Brown decided to throw Boston on his back and average 28.7 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 5.1 **** ists to lead the Cs to a 56-26 record and the No. 2 seed in the East. He was fantastic in Round 1 against Philadelphia as well and his addition changes a lot for the Sixers.
Dominick Barlow, who is going to be a key piece for the Sixers in the coming season, gave his thoughts on the Brown addition while working out in Las Vegas.
"Things happen fast," said Barlow. "I don't know if that's something that you know we expected to happen, but here we are, and I mean it's exciting. Obviously, he's an elite player, MVP candidate this year. His team was really good without Tatum. So I thought he did an excellent job in leading that group, and I'm super excited to have him."
As with any big addition, there will be some adjustments that need to be made. Brown will be joining a team that features high-usage players in Tyrese Maxey and Joel Embiid along with the budding VJ Edgecombe. The Sixers will have to find a way to help him find his niche, but on the flip side, that shouldn't be hard when considering how smart Brown is and the high IQ he possesses.
4 months ago
India's disappointing UK tour has continued to unravel on the field, but the latest ICC Men's T20I Rankings have provided a rare silver lining, with Ishan Kishan and Abhishek Sharma holding on to the top two batting spots despite the team's struggles against Ireland and England.
India's white-ball campaign has endured a miserable run, beginning with a 2-0 series defeat to Ireland before Shreyas Iyer's side slipped to a 2-0 deficit against England in the ongoing five-match T20I series after the opening match was washed out. England's emphatic 125-run victory in the third T20I also went down as India's biggest-ever defeat in the format.
Yet, even amid the setbacks, India's premier T20I batters continue to dominate the global rankings.
The latest ICC rankings confirmed that Ishan Kishan remains the world's No. 1 T20I batter, with teammate Abhishek Sharma retaining the No. 2 position.
There was another positive for India in the form of new T20I captain Shreyas Iyer, who enjoyed one of the biggest jumps of the week. After scoring 68 in the rain-hit opening game against England and following it up with 37 in the second T20I, Iyer surged an astonishing 425 places to joint 93rd in the batting rankings.
England, meanwhile, were richly rewarded for their commanding performances.
Jacob Bethell climbed seven places to No. 8 after his unbeaten 76 off 46 **** helped England secure victory in the second T20I.
Sam Curran also enjoyed a productive week, rising 12 places to No. 108 among batters after contributing an unbeaten 41 and climbing 12 spots to joint 71st in the bowling rankings following figures of 3/33. His all-round exploits also lifted him six places to joint 13th among T20I all-rounders.
Veteran leg-spinner Adil Rashid returned to the top three of the T20I bowling rankings after moving up one place to No. 3 thanks to his miserly figures of 2/14 in England's record win.
132261879
India's white-ball campaign has endured a miserable run, beginning with a 2-0 series defeat to Ireland before Shreyas Iyer's side slipped to a 2-0 deficit against England in the ongoing five-match T20I series after the opening match was washed out. England's emphatic 125-run victory in the third T20I also went down as India's biggest-ever defeat in the format.
Yet, even amid the setbacks, India's premier T20I batters continue to dominate the global rankings.
The latest ICC rankings confirmed that Ishan Kishan remains the world's No. 1 T20I batter, with teammate Abhishek Sharma retaining the No. 2 position.
There was another positive for India in the form of new T20I captain Shreyas Iyer, who enjoyed one of the biggest jumps of the week. After scoring 68 in the rain-hit opening game against England and following it up with 37 in the second T20I, Iyer surged an astonishing 425 places to joint 93rd in the batting rankings.
England, meanwhile, were richly rewarded for their commanding performances.
Jacob Bethell climbed seven places to No. 8 after his unbeaten 76 off 46 **** helped England secure victory in the second T20I.
Sam Curran also enjoyed a productive week, rising 12 places to No. 108 among batters after contributing an unbeaten 41 and climbing 12 spots to joint 71st in the bowling rankings following figures of 3/33. His all-round exploits also lifted him six places to joint 13th among T20I all-rounders.
Veteran leg-spinner Adil Rashid returned to the top three of the T20I bowling rankings after moving up one place to No. 3 thanks to his miserly figures of 2/14 in England's record win.
132261879
4 months ago
Once again, it’s time to pass judgement prematurely. After all, I would have my basketball writer card revoked were I to not evaluate before the dust has fully settled: that’s why they pay me the modestly-sized bucks, I’m told. So, without further ado, the Winners and Losers of week one of 2026 NBA free agency.
Philadelphia 76ers It must feel strange for Sixers fans to be on the right side of one of these incredibly lopsided, head-scratching transactions. But here we are: Philadelphia may end up as the biggest winners of the week after somehow (!) landing 2026 MVP candidate, 2024 NBA finals MVP and bona fide second-team All-NBA wing Jaylen Brown in exchange for just two first-round picks, two second-rounders and Paul George – whose contract is widely regarded as one of the league’s worst. The 36-year-old, injury-prone former superstar is still owed roughly $110m over the next two seasons. At the time of writing, the Sixers remain in the LeBron James sweepstakes, but even if they strike out, they’re in terrific shape. A George-for-Brown swap gives them far more insurance against the inevitable Joel Embiid absences during the regular season, while adding a battle-tested champion to help shepherd Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe through the postseason and show them what it takes to reach the mountaintop. Additionally, after being unceremoniously dumped on a division rival for the basketball equivalent of a bag of chips, Brown will arrive about as motivated as possible heading into the 2026-27 campaign. Hats off to the Sixers’ brass for pulling off what looks like the biggest heist since Nico Harrison since Nico Harrison was employed.
Los Angeles Clippers Self-awareness is a virtue. The Clippers were going nowhere in a hurry, and as heartening as last season’s late push was, the Kawhi Leonard era had, by any reasonable measure, been an abject failure. The reckoning actually began before the offseason. At the trade deadline, the Clippers cut bait on James Harden, landing the much younger Darius Garland while adding draft capital. They also dealt longtime center Ivica Zubac for a package that ultimately yielded fifth overall pick Keaton Wagler. The housecleaning continued this summer when they sent Leonard back to his old home in Toronto, receiving a respectable haul of picks along with two intriguing younger pieces in Brandon Ingram and Gradey ****** . They even poached three-point sniper Rui Hachimura from the neighboring rival Lakers. In all likelihood, the Clippers won’t be very good next season. But now, what was once an empty cupboard of future ****** ets has been restocked, the foundations of a genuine rebuild are finally in place, and, a year after watching former Clipper-turned-trade-chip Shai Gilgeous-Alexander lift the Larry O’Brien Trophy, the franchise can at last start moving forward. That is, until tree-planting-gate is fully adjudicated.
LeBron James It is absolutely preposterous that the hottest commodity on the free-agent market is a
Philadelphia 76ers It must feel strange for Sixers fans to be on the right side of one of these incredibly lopsided, head-scratching transactions. But here we are: Philadelphia may end up as the biggest winners of the week after somehow (!) landing 2026 MVP candidate, 2024 NBA finals MVP and bona fide second-team All-NBA wing Jaylen Brown in exchange for just two first-round picks, two second-rounders and Paul George – whose contract is widely regarded as one of the league’s worst. The 36-year-old, injury-prone former superstar is still owed roughly $110m over the next two seasons. At the time of writing, the Sixers remain in the LeBron James sweepstakes, but even if they strike out, they’re in terrific shape. A George-for-Brown swap gives them far more insurance against the inevitable Joel Embiid absences during the regular season, while adding a battle-tested champion to help shepherd Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe through the postseason and show them what it takes to reach the mountaintop. Additionally, after being unceremoniously dumped on a division rival for the basketball equivalent of a bag of chips, Brown will arrive about as motivated as possible heading into the 2026-27 campaign. Hats off to the Sixers’ brass for pulling off what looks like the biggest heist since Nico Harrison since Nico Harrison was employed.
Los Angeles Clippers Self-awareness is a virtue. The Clippers were going nowhere in a hurry, and as heartening as last season’s late push was, the Kawhi Leonard era had, by any reasonable measure, been an abject failure. The reckoning actually began before the offseason. At the trade deadline, the Clippers cut bait on James Harden, landing the much younger Darius Garland while adding draft capital. They also dealt longtime center Ivica Zubac for a package that ultimately yielded fifth overall pick Keaton Wagler. The housecleaning continued this summer when they sent Leonard back to his old home in Toronto, receiving a respectable haul of picks along with two intriguing younger pieces in Brandon Ingram and Gradey ****** . They even poached three-point sniper Rui Hachimura from the neighboring rival Lakers. In all likelihood, the Clippers won’t be very good next season. But now, what was once an empty cupboard of future ****** ets has been restocked, the foundations of a genuine rebuild are finally in place, and, a year after watching former Clipper-turned-trade-chip Shai Gilgeous-Alexander lift the Larry O’Brien Trophy, the franchise can at last start moving forward. That is, until tree-planting-gate is fully adjudicated.
LeBron James It is absolutely preposterous that the hottest commodity on the free-agent market is a
4 months ago
Warriors all-time great Klay Thompson has new trade price revealed, and it should interest Golden State originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Former Golden State Warriors legend Klay Thompson is still with the Dallas Mavericks, though many have suggested that a trade could be coming over the next few months.
The Mavericks, who decided to move on from Luka Doncic in one of the worst decisions in NBA history, haven't made many of the right decisions in recent years.
That's part of why many have suggested that Thompson could be available to Dallas. Not to say that the Warriors would ever reunite with him at this stage, but according to the latest report, the Mavericks could be interested in trading him for just a few second-round picks.
“Klay Thompson, Mavericks. (Remaining contract: one year, $17 million.) Another aging Mav! Thompson does not fit Dallas’s timeline, and if the Mavs can get anything–youth, a few second-rounders–for him, they will. He’s still a 38% 3-point shooter,” Sean Deveny wrote.
Former Golden State Warriors legend Klay Thompson is still with the Dallas Mavericks, though many have suggested that a trade could be coming over the next few months.
The Mavericks, who decided to move on from Luka Doncic in one of the worst decisions in NBA history, haven't made many of the right decisions in recent years.
That's part of why many have suggested that Thompson could be available to Dallas. Not to say that the Warriors would ever reunite with him at this stage, but according to the latest report, the Mavericks could be interested in trading him for just a few second-round picks.
“Klay Thompson, Mavericks. (Remaining contract: one year, $17 million.) Another aging Mav! Thompson does not fit Dallas’s timeline, and if the Mavs can get anything–youth, a few second-rounders–for him, they will. He’s still a 38% 3-point shooter,” Sean Deveny wrote.
4 months ago
Latest Trey Murphy III trade update gives Celtics a chance to add Jayson Tatum's ideal co-star originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
In the aftermath of the Jaylen Brown trade, the Boston Celtics need to start building around their sole franchise superstar, Jayson Tatum. And, with two of his three supporting superstars, Paul George and Derrick White, being in their mid-to-early 30’s, Boston needs to get younger.
The leading target that most want Boston to get is Trey Murphy III, as his playstyle matches up with Mazzulla Ball pretty well. His price point made people balk though, as the New Orleans Pelicans wanted four first-round picks for him. However, there’s been an update to that, and Boston may now be more inclined to make a deal.
Apr 3, 2026; Sacramento, California, USA; New Orleans Pelicans forward Trey Murphy III (25) during the second quarter against the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images
According to HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto, the Pelicans have lowered their demands from four first-rounders to three. This is a little better, and it allows Boston to get more creative with its offer.
In the aftermath of the Jaylen Brown trade, the Boston Celtics need to start building around their sole franchise superstar, Jayson Tatum. And, with two of his three supporting superstars, Paul George and Derrick White, being in their mid-to-early 30’s, Boston needs to get younger.
The leading target that most want Boston to get is Trey Murphy III, as his playstyle matches up with Mazzulla Ball pretty well. His price point made people balk though, as the New Orleans Pelicans wanted four first-round picks for him. However, there’s been an update to that, and Boston may now be more inclined to make a deal.
Apr 3, 2026; Sacramento, California, USA; New Orleans Pelicans forward Trey Murphy III (25) during the second quarter against the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images
According to HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto, the Pelicans have lowered their demands from four first-rounders to three. This is a little better, and it allows Boston to get more creative with its offer.
4 months ago
Coming off a season that ended with a seven-game first-round loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers, the Toronto Raptors made arguably the biggest splash of the early NBA offseason.
Toronto landed Kawhi Leonard from the Los Angeles Clippers on June 30, sending Brandon Ingram, Gradey ***** , two second-round picks, a 2027 pick swap and unprotected first-rounders in 2031 and 2033 to LA. Leonard, 35, sees Toronto as his final NBA stop after winning a ***** le there in 2019.
The trade also revived talk of another homecoming. DeMar DeRozan, whose 13,296 points top the franchise scoring list ahead of Kyle Lowry’s 10,540, was the man Toronto gave up to get Leonard the first time.
DeRozan and the Sacramento Kings could soon finalize a buyout, a resolution that would free the 36-year-old to sign anywhere as a free agent.
Yahoo Sports’ Kelly Iko reported Wednesday that DeRozan hoped to accelerate his exit and that he and rival executives expected the Kings to waive him. He is entering the final season of the three-year contract he signed in 2024.
Toronto landed Kawhi Leonard from the Los Angeles Clippers on June 30, sending Brandon Ingram, Gradey ***** , two second-round picks, a 2027 pick swap and unprotected first-rounders in 2031 and 2033 to LA. Leonard, 35, sees Toronto as his final NBA stop after winning a ***** le there in 2019.
The trade also revived talk of another homecoming. DeMar DeRozan, whose 13,296 points top the franchise scoring list ahead of Kyle Lowry’s 10,540, was the man Toronto gave up to get Leonard the first time.
DeRozan and the Sacramento Kings could soon finalize a buyout, a resolution that would free the 36-year-old to sign anywhere as a free agent.
Yahoo Sports’ Kelly Iko reported Wednesday that DeRozan hoped to accelerate his exit and that he and rival executives expected the Kings to waive him. He is entering the final season of the three-year contract he signed in 2024.
4 months ago
Women's T20 World Cup Player of the Tournament winners: Complete list from 2009 to 2026 originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Beth Mooney won the Player of the Tournament award at the 2026 Women's T20 World Cup.
She is the first player to win the award twice, having also claimed it in 2020.
Australian players have now dominated the award, winning it in 2018, 2020, 2023, and 2026.
While team glory defines the Women's T20 World Cup, the tournament has also served as a stage for staggering individual brilliance. The Player of the Tournament award honors the standout performer of each edition, celebrating the batters, bowlers, and all-rounders who shine brightest on the world stage.
Beth Mooney won the Player of the Tournament award at the 2026 Women's T20 World Cup.
She is the first player to win the award twice, having also claimed it in 2020.
Australian players have now dominated the award, winning it in 2018, 2020, 2023, and 2026.
While team glory defines the Women's T20 World Cup, the tournament has also served as a stage for staggering individual brilliance. The Player of the Tournament award honors the standout performer of each edition, celebrating the batters, bowlers, and all-rounders who shine brightest on the world stage.
