1 hr. ago
Sarfaraz Khan made a big impact as a substitute fielder for the injured Rishabh Pant on Day 3 of India's second Test against Sri Lanka in Colombo.
His constant chatter from short leg appeared to unsettle Sri Lanka captain Dhananjaya de Silva and wicketkeeper-batter Niroshan ******* wella, with both eventually getting out.
Before Manav Suthar bowled to Dhananjaya, the Sri Lankan captain stopped play because of movement behind the bowler's arm. Sarfaraz used the moment to distract him, telling him to focus on the ball instead.
"Nothing is there, bro. You are looking there. You are just wasting time, bro. Don't be scared. You are the captain. Come on, bro," he was heard saying on the stump mic.
Watch:
"Why are you worried about that side. Look straight," he added.
The tactic seemed to work soon after. Suthar dismissed Dhananjaya in the same over when the batter edged a tossed-up delivery. Dhruv Jurel's gloves deflected the ball towards slip, where KL Rahul eventually completed the catch. Dhananjaya was out for 8.
Sarfaraz continued his chatter when Niroshan ******* wella came to the crease. India also used short-pitched deliveries against the wicketkeeper-batter, a strategy that had worked in the first Test.
Despite the exchanges being accompanied by smiles, Sarfaraz had the final say when ******* wella gloved a delivery from Mohammed Siraj through to Jurel. His dismissal further strengthened India's position.
Earlier, India declared their first innings at 503/9. Devdutt Padikkal and Dhruv Jurel scored centuries, while Asitha Fernando was Sri Lanka's best bowler with four wickets.
#sarfaraz #dickwella #niroshan #dhruv
His constant chatter from short leg appeared to unsettle Sri Lanka captain Dhananjaya de Silva and wicketkeeper-batter Niroshan ******* wella, with both eventually getting out.
Before Manav Suthar bowled to Dhananjaya, the Sri Lankan captain stopped play because of movement behind the bowler's arm. Sarfaraz used the moment to distract him, telling him to focus on the ball instead.
"Nothing is there, bro. You are looking there. You are just wasting time, bro. Don't be scared. You are the captain. Come on, bro," he was heard saying on the stump mic.
Watch:
"Why are you worried about that side. Look straight," he added.
The tactic seemed to work soon after. Suthar dismissed Dhananjaya in the same over when the batter edged a tossed-up delivery. Dhruv Jurel's gloves deflected the ball towards slip, where KL Rahul eventually completed the catch. Dhananjaya was out for 8.
Sarfaraz continued his chatter when Niroshan ******* wella came to the crease. India also used short-pitched deliveries against the wicketkeeper-batter, a strategy that had worked in the first Test.
Despite the exchanges being accompanied by smiles, Sarfaraz had the final say when ******* wella gloved a delivery from Mohammed Siraj through to Jurel. His dismissal further strengthened India's position.
Earlier, India declared their first innings at 503/9. Devdutt Padikkal and Dhruv Jurel scored centuries, while Asitha Fernando was Sri Lanka's best bowler with four wickets.
#sarfaraz #dickwella #niroshan #dhruv
11 hours ago
It was one of the riskiest singles Dhruv Jurel would have taken in his Test career. Anxious to complete his second Test century — and first overseas hundred — after being stranded on 99 for 12 ******* and made to wait by rain while on 95, Jurel punched the ball towards mid-off and sprinted for a single that just wasn't on.
The ball travelled quickly to the fielder after bouncing. But luck smiled on the 25-year-old batter. The fielder missed the direct hit and Jurel dived to complete the run and his century, which came off 171 ******* and had the entire Indian dressing room applauding as they shared the tension. Mohammed Siraj celebrated wildly, giving Jurel a bear hug.
Powered by Jurel's composed and flawless unbeaten 115 off 177 ******* , with nine fours and two sixes, and Rishabh Pant's entertaining 63 off 89 ******* , with six fours and two sixes, India declared at 503 for nine. Then, they reduced Sri Lanka to 8/2 on Day Two of the second and final Test in Colombo on Monday.
The hosts were clearly unhappy about being asked to bat in fading light. Yashasvi Jaiswal pulled off a brilliant diving catch at gully to send back Lahiru Udara for one off Prasidh Krishna in the second over.
In the third over, the hosts suffered another blow when nightwatchman Prabath Jayasuriya was trapped LBW for two by a fast, full delivery from Manav Suthar. Jayasuriya's agitated reaction after being dismissed reflected Sri Lanka's unhappiness at being asked to bat so late in the evening.
Kamil Mishara was batting on five when stumps were drawn at 5:51pm after an extended session. Shubman Gill and Co. deserve credit for their bowlers' early blows, as they did not leave the field even when the covers were being brought on because of the dark, wet conditions a few minutes earlier.
With the hosts trailing by 495 runs, India are now in control of the Test.
Jurel was involved in two vital partnerships, adding 112 for the seventh wicket with Pant, which lifted India from 307 for six, and 39 for the eighth with Manav Suthar. During his stand with Pant, Jurel played the ideal foil, reaching a patient fifty off 97 ******* .
Like Devdutt Padikkal, Jurel has enjoyed a breakout series. Having arrived in Sri Lanka without a fifty in eight innings and under pressure from Sarfaraz Khan for the No. 6 spot, he made a crucial 51 in the first Test and now has 173 runs in two Tests at 86.50.
Rishabh Pant, meanwhile, struck his 21st Test half-century and became India's leading run-scorer in World Test Championship history, surpassing Shubman Gill. Pant now has 2,948 runs in 42 WTC Tests, ahead of Gill's 2,917.
Earlier, India resumed on 300 for five and lost debutant Saransh Jain early for six.
#jurel
The ball travelled quickly to the fielder after bouncing. But luck smiled on the 25-year-old batter. The fielder missed the direct hit and Jurel dived to complete the run and his century, which came off 171 ******* and had the entire Indian dressing room applauding as they shared the tension. Mohammed Siraj celebrated wildly, giving Jurel a bear hug.
Powered by Jurel's composed and flawless unbeaten 115 off 177 ******* , with nine fours and two sixes, and Rishabh Pant's entertaining 63 off 89 ******* , with six fours and two sixes, India declared at 503 for nine. Then, they reduced Sri Lanka to 8/2 on Day Two of the second and final Test in Colombo on Monday.
The hosts were clearly unhappy about being asked to bat in fading light. Yashasvi Jaiswal pulled off a brilliant diving catch at gully to send back Lahiru Udara for one off Prasidh Krishna in the second over.
In the third over, the hosts suffered another blow when nightwatchman Prabath Jayasuriya was trapped LBW for two by a fast, full delivery from Manav Suthar. Jayasuriya's agitated reaction after being dismissed reflected Sri Lanka's unhappiness at being asked to bat so late in the evening.
Kamil Mishara was batting on five when stumps were drawn at 5:51pm after an extended session. Shubman Gill and Co. deserve credit for their bowlers' early blows, as they did not leave the field even when the covers were being brought on because of the dark, wet conditions a few minutes earlier.
With the hosts trailing by 495 runs, India are now in control of the Test.
Jurel was involved in two vital partnerships, adding 112 for the seventh wicket with Pant, which lifted India from 307 for six, and 39 for the eighth with Manav Suthar. During his stand with Pant, Jurel played the ideal foil, reaching a patient fifty off 97 ******* .
Like Devdutt Padikkal, Jurel has enjoyed a breakout series. Having arrived in Sri Lanka without a fifty in eight innings and under pressure from Sarfaraz Khan for the No. 6 spot, he made a crucial 51 in the first Test and now has 173 runs in two Tests at 86.50.
Rishabh Pant, meanwhile, struck his 21st Test half-century and became India's leading run-scorer in World Test Championship history, surpassing Shubman Gill. Pant now has 2,948 runs in 42 WTC Tests, ahead of Gill's 2,917.
Earlier, India resumed on 300 for five and lost debutant Saransh Jain early for six.
#jurel
2 days ago
Bengaluru: India's Saransh Jain, Manav Suthar, Auqib Nabi and Sarfaraz Khan, who are all in Sri Lanka for the ongoing Test series, are proof that selectors don't deny consistent domestic performers. India's domestic cricketers can draw inspiration from such journeys as they head into the Duleep Trophy, the curtain-raiser for the domestic season, at the BCCI Centre of Excellence from Sunday onwards.
The spotlight will be on 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. The Bihar boy has already made his T20 debut after a stunning IPL 2026 season. There have been questions about whether the big-hitting batter has the patience and composure to play in the longer format. His 207 runs in eight first-class matches do not justify his skill set. At this juncture, the upcoming domestic seasons in red-ball cricket ******* ume greater significance.
#Bengaluru #auqib
The spotlight will be on 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. The Bihar boy has already made his T20 debut after a stunning IPL 2026 season. There have been questions about whether the big-hitting batter has the patience and composure to play in the longer format. His 207 runs in eight first-class matches do not justify his skill set. At this juncture, the upcoming domestic seasons in red-ball cricket ******* ume greater significance.
#Bengaluru #auqib
7 days ago
Pakistan suffer a major setback ahead of the first Test against England as newly reappointed captain Babar Azam is ruled out with a finger injury. Babar injures the middle finger of his right hand while batting against the West Indies and aggravates it during a warm-up game in Beckenham.
"Pakistan captain Babar Azam is unavailable for the first test match," Pakistan coach Sarfaraz Ahmed said. "Salman Agha will be the captain for the first test."
Ahmed confirms that Babar's finger is not broken but says the team hopes the pain settles in time for the second Test at Lord's, starting August 27. Babar's absence is a significant blow after he recently returned as captain and was Pakistan's leading run-scorer against the West Indies.
Agha is set to captain Pakistan in a Test for the first time, having already led the team in T20 cricket. Shan Masood, who was replaced by Babar as captain, also returns after recovering from a broken finger.
"Our practice match gave us a lot of confidence," Ahmed said. "Whatever bases we needed to cover with bat and ball, we did. We believe we'll do very well here."
England, meanwhile, begin the series under a changed leadership setup. Joe Root returns as captain following Ben Stokes' retirement, while Brendon McCullum has also left the coaching role. Marcus Trescothick takes interim charge as new coach Stephen Fleming misses the series.
Root, who previously led England from 2017 to 2022, says his experience has prepared him for another stint as captain.
"I feel as ready as any other England captain that's ever been before," Root said. "To have that amount of experience is invaluable."
Harry Brook remains vice-captain, with Root confident of his support.
"I fully feel he's got my back like the rest of the guys do," Root said.
#root #england #finger #azam
"Pakistan captain Babar Azam is unavailable for the first test match," Pakistan coach Sarfaraz Ahmed said. "Salman Agha will be the captain for the first test."
Ahmed confirms that Babar's finger is not broken but says the team hopes the pain settles in time for the second Test at Lord's, starting August 27. Babar's absence is a significant blow after he recently returned as captain and was Pakistan's leading run-scorer against the West Indies.
Agha is set to captain Pakistan in a Test for the first time, having already led the team in T20 cricket. Shan Masood, who was replaced by Babar as captain, also returns after recovering from a broken finger.
"Our practice match gave us a lot of confidence," Ahmed said. "Whatever bases we needed to cover with bat and ball, we did. We believe we'll do very well here."
England, meanwhile, begin the series under a changed leadership setup. Joe Root returns as captain following Ben Stokes' retirement, while Brendon McCullum has also left the coaching role. Marcus Trescothick takes interim charge as new coach Stephen Fleming misses the series.
Root, who previously led England from 2017 to 2022, says his experience has prepared him for another stint as captain.
"I feel as ready as any other England captain that's ever been before," Root said. "To have that amount of experience is invaluable."
Harry Brook remains vice-captain, with Root confident of his support.
"I fully feel he's got my back like the rest of the guys do," Root said.
#root #england #finger #azam
7 days ago
LEEDS, England (AP) — Pakistan captain Babar Azam was ruled out of the first test against England starting on Wednesday because of a hand injury.
Babar was struck on the middle finger of his right hand while batting against the West Indies this month, and hit again in a warmup game last week in Beckenham.
"Pakistan captain Babar Azam is unavailable for the first test match," Pakistan coach Sarfaraz Ahmed said on Tuesday. "Salman Agha will be the captain for the first test."
Ahmed said the finger was not broken and he hoped the pain will reduce so Babar could play in the second test at Lord's starting on Aug. 27.
But his absence was a blow to Pakistan. Babar had just been reappointed captain and led the scoring in the West Indies.
#ahmed
Babar was struck on the middle finger of his right hand while batting against the West Indies this month, and hit again in a warmup game last week in Beckenham.
"Pakistan captain Babar Azam is unavailable for the first test match," Pakistan coach Sarfaraz Ahmed said on Tuesday. "Salman Agha will be the captain for the first test."
Ahmed said the finger was not broken and he hoped the pain will reduce so Babar could play in the second test at Lord's starting on Aug. 27.
But his absence was a blow to Pakistan. Babar had just been reappointed captain and led the scoring in the West Indies.
#ahmed
9 days ago
'Sarfaraz Khan is sitting': Mohammed Kaif explains why Dhruv Jurel's fiery 50 vs Sri Lanka was crucial on Day 2 in Galle originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Mohammad Kaif praised Dhruv Jurel's fifty against Sri Lanka on Day 2 in Galle.
Ex-India star noted Jurel batted under pressure with Sarfaraz Khan waiting in the wings.
Jurel's 55-run stand with Manav Suthar came during an India collapse.
Dhruv Jurel's half-century in Galle arrived at precisely the moment India needed it, and former batter Mohammad Kaif believes its value will only become clearer as the Test unfolds. The wicketkeeper-batter's counter-attacking knock steadied an innings that had begun to wobble badly.
#India #khan
Mohammad Kaif praised Dhruv Jurel's fifty against Sri Lanka on Day 2 in Galle.
Ex-India star noted Jurel batted under pressure with Sarfaraz Khan waiting in the wings.
Jurel's 55-run stand with Manav Suthar came during an India collapse.
Dhruv Jurel's half-century in Galle arrived at precisely the moment India needed it, and former batter Mohammad Kaif believes its value will only become clearer as the Test unfolds. The wicketkeeper-batter's counter-attacking knock steadied an innings that had begun to wobble badly.
#India #khan
14 days ago
NEW DELHI: Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif has welcomed Sarfaraz Khan's return to India's Test squad and backed him to make the playing XI against Sri Lanka, arguing that his ability against spin could make him a better option than Dhruv Jurel in the conditions expected in Galle.
Sarfaraz was added to India's squad as a replacement for injured Sai Sudharsan and joined the team in Sri Lanka on Monday. His return has also reignited the debate over his prolonged absence from the Test setup, having last played for India against New Zealand in November 2024.
Kaif, while discussing Sarfaraz's comeback on his YouTube channel, questioned why the batter was left out after his initial run in the side. He stressed that poor performance was not the reason for Sarfaraz's exclusion.
"There was a reason he was not allowed to play. Performance was not the reason. There was no reason. That his runs were not getting made, that the bat was not working. He made runs against New Zealand. He came across the field. He was playing well. He was in form. When he scored against England, he had a good start," Kaif said.
Kaif also praised the decision-makers for bringing Sarfaraz back, believing his skill against spin could prove valuable in Sri Lanka.
"Whatever happened in between, he was removed. But now, whoever said that he should come back, I feel that he is thinking for India. India is thinking for cricket. We have to win. We will need good players. We will need good players. We will need good players who play well," Kaif further said.
He added: "So, first of all, whoever has named him on the table, I congratulate him a lot. And I hope that Sarfaraz Khan will go there and play well."
The bigger question now is whether Sarfaraz can go straight into India's XI. Kaif believes he should, although he acknowledged that the team management could favour Jurel because of his existing involvement with the squad.
"If they follow the trend of backing the players who have already been playing for the team, then they might say, 'Jurel has been with us already. He hasn't scored consistently, but we will back him because he has already been part of the team.' If that is the approach, then Sarfaraz will have to wait," Kaif said.
"But if you ask me what the best XI is, Sarfaraz's name comes into my best XI because of his ability to play spin at No. 5 or No. 6. His record against spin is excellent," he added.
Sarfaraz's range of strokes is another reason Kaif sees him as a strong option, particularly if the pitch becomes increasingly difficult to bat on as the Test progresses.
"He also has a wide range of shots. When you get to the fourth or fifth day, batting becomes more difficult, and that is where a player like Sarfaraz Khan can be very useful," he said. "He knows how to use sweeps and reverse sweeps effectively. He can hit over extra cover, he is good off the back foot and he attacks spin."
Kaif also pointed to Jurel's recent form as another re
Sarfaraz was added to India's squad as a replacement for injured Sai Sudharsan and joined the team in Sri Lanka on Monday. His return has also reignited the debate over his prolonged absence from the Test setup, having last played for India against New Zealand in November 2024.
Kaif, while discussing Sarfaraz's comeback on his YouTube channel, questioned why the batter was left out after his initial run in the side. He stressed that poor performance was not the reason for Sarfaraz's exclusion.
"There was a reason he was not allowed to play. Performance was not the reason. There was no reason. That his runs were not getting made, that the bat was not working. He made runs against New Zealand. He came across the field. He was playing well. He was in form. When he scored against England, he had a good start," Kaif said.
Kaif also praised the decision-makers for bringing Sarfaraz back, believing his skill against spin could prove valuable in Sri Lanka.
"Whatever happened in between, he was removed. But now, whoever said that he should come back, I feel that he is thinking for India. India is thinking for cricket. We have to win. We will need good players. We will need good players. We will need good players who play well," Kaif further said.
He added: "So, first of all, whoever has named him on the table, I congratulate him a lot. And I hope that Sarfaraz Khan will go there and play well."
The bigger question now is whether Sarfaraz can go straight into India's XI. Kaif believes he should, although he acknowledged that the team management could favour Jurel because of his existing involvement with the squad.
"If they follow the trend of backing the players who have already been playing for the team, then they might say, 'Jurel has been with us already. He hasn't scored consistently, but we will back him because he has already been part of the team.' If that is the approach, then Sarfaraz will have to wait," Kaif said.
"But if you ask me what the best XI is, Sarfaraz's name comes into my best XI because of his ability to play spin at No. 5 or No. 6. His record against spin is excellent," he added.
Sarfaraz's range of strokes is another reason Kaif sees him as a strong option, particularly if the pitch becomes increasingly difficult to bat on as the Test progresses.
"He also has a wide range of shots. When you get to the fourth or fifth day, batting becomes more difficult, and that is where a player like Sarfaraz Khan can be very useful," he said. "He knows how to use sweeps and reverse sweeps effectively. He can hit over extra cover, he is good off the back foot and he attacks spin."
Kaif also pointed to Jurel's recent form as another re
16 days ago
Colombo: Sri Lanka head coach Gary Kirsten was a keen observer at the Nondescripts Cricket Club Ground on Sunday as India continued their preparations for the upcoming two-Test series, with the former India coach getting a close look at the visitors during their final warm-up game.
Kirsten, who guided India to the 2011 ODI World Cup ****** le, was spotted at the venue during the warm-up fixture between India and Sri Lanka Cricket XI. The South African also exchanged a few words with India fast bowler Gurnoor Brar near the boundary ropes before turning his attention back towards the visitors' preparations.
The warm-up match has now entered its final phase, with Sri Lanka Cricket XI declaring their second innings at 200/6 to set India a target of 207 runs. India had earlier declared on 357/6 after Sri Lanka Cricket XI posted 363/8 in their first innings. Devdutt Padikkal's unbeaten 142 was the standout performance for India, while Ravindra Jadeja and Manav Suthar also spent valuable time in the middle.
The final chase will give India's batters another opportunity to adapt to Sri Lankan conditions before the Test series, while the hosts will be keen to put pressure on a visiting side that is still working out its combinations.
For Kirsten, Sunday's visit offered an opportunity to ****** s an Indian side he knows extremely well from his successful stint as head coach between 2008 and 2011. His current ****** ignment, however, is to prepare Sri Lanka for a challenging two-Test World Test Championship series against India. Sri Lanka Cricket appointed him with a long-term mandate that includes building the team towards the 2027 ODI World Cup.
The first Test will be played at the Galle International Cricket Stadium from August 15 to 19, followed by the second Test at the Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo from August 23 to 27.
One of the biggest selection talking points heading into the series has been India's No. 3 position. Sai Sudharsan, who was initially included in India's Test squad subject to fitness, has now been ruled out of the series with a toe injury. That has opened the door further for Devdutt Padikkal, whose unbeaten 142 in the warm-up has strengthened his case for a place in the playing XI.
As TimesofIndia.com reported earlier also identified Shaik Rasheed and Sarfaraz Khan as potential contenders to replace Sudharsan in the squad, although an official replacement had not been confirmed.
133067401
#series #World #coach
Kirsten, who guided India to the 2011 ODI World Cup ****** le, was spotted at the venue during the warm-up fixture between India and Sri Lanka Cricket XI. The South African also exchanged a few words with India fast bowler Gurnoor Brar near the boundary ropes before turning his attention back towards the visitors' preparations.
The warm-up match has now entered its final phase, with Sri Lanka Cricket XI declaring their second innings at 200/6 to set India a target of 207 runs. India had earlier declared on 357/6 after Sri Lanka Cricket XI posted 363/8 in their first innings. Devdutt Padikkal's unbeaten 142 was the standout performance for India, while Ravindra Jadeja and Manav Suthar also spent valuable time in the middle.
The final chase will give India's batters another opportunity to adapt to Sri Lankan conditions before the Test series, while the hosts will be keen to put pressure on a visiting side that is still working out its combinations.
For Kirsten, Sunday's visit offered an opportunity to ****** s an Indian side he knows extremely well from his successful stint as head coach between 2008 and 2011. His current ****** ignment, however, is to prepare Sri Lanka for a challenging two-Test World Test Championship series against India. Sri Lanka Cricket appointed him with a long-term mandate that includes building the team towards the 2027 ODI World Cup.
The first Test will be played at the Galle International Cricket Stadium from August 15 to 19, followed by the second Test at the Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo from August 23 to 27.
One of the biggest selection talking points heading into the series has been India's No. 3 position. Sai Sudharsan, who was initially included in India's Test squad subject to fitness, has now been ruled out of the series with a toe injury. That has opened the door further for Devdutt Padikkal, whose unbeaten 142 in the warm-up has strengthened his case for a place in the playing XI.
As TimesofIndia.com reported earlier also identified Shaik Rasheed and Sarfaraz Khan as potential contenders to replace Sudharsan in the squad, although an official replacement had not been confirmed.
133067401
#series #World #coach
17 days ago
MUMBAI: In a big blow to India, their in-form No. 3 batter Sai Sudharsan has been ruled out of the upcoming two-Test series in Sri Lanka due to a toe injury, TOI has exclusively learnt.
Sudharsan did not take the flight when the Indian team took off from Mumbai for Sri Lanka on Tuesday (August 4), and thus missed the ongoing three-day warm-up match against Sri Lanka Cricket XI in Colombo, which began on Friday (August 8). Sudharsan's untimely injury could open the door for middle-order batter Sarfaraz Khan, who has consistently done well for Mumbai in domestic cricket over the past few years.
"Sai has been at the BCCI's Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru for the past few days to undergo treatment for his toe injury. His injury has almost healed, and he was thus confident that he would be declared fit today and travel to Sri Lanka. However, he still hasn't sufficiently recovered from his injury to be declared completely fit for this series. His recovery may take slightly longer," a source in the BCCI told TOI on Saturday.
It's learnt that the CoE's medical team has now become extra cautious after a few cases emerged, pacer Harshit Rana being a classic example, of players breaking down despite being cleared by the BCCI facility.
The left-hander's injury is a big setback for India considering the fact that he had slammed back-to-back centuries for India A during their shadow tour of Sri Lanka last month. A prolific batter for Gujarat ******* ans, where he opened alongside India's Test captain Shubman Gill in the IPL, Sudharsan is regarded as a key member of the Test side, with India's team management looking to give him an extended run at No. 3. The Tamil Nadu batter has featured in seven Tests and scored 383 runs at an average of 39, with three half-centuries.
However, providing huge relief to India on a day when Sudharsan was ruled out, replacing him at the critical and pivotal No. 3 spot, Karnataka batter Devdutt Padikkal slammed an unbeaten century (103 not out at the time of writing this) and is thus the favourite to bat at the one-down position in the opening Test of the series in Galle, which begins on August 15. Ironically, Padikkal too is a left-hander.
Meanwhile, in a relief for India, it's learnt that India's Test captain Shubman Gill's finger injury, which he suffered while batting in the nets, is "minor," and he will be fit in time for the first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle. The finger injury forced Gill to miss the ongoing warm-up match as a precautionary measure.
"Gill's injury isn't serious. It's like a bruise you get when your finger gets stuck in the door. He will be fine soon," a source tracking developments told this paper.
#test #series
Sudharsan did not take the flight when the Indian team took off from Mumbai for Sri Lanka on Tuesday (August 4), and thus missed the ongoing three-day warm-up match against Sri Lanka Cricket XI in Colombo, which began on Friday (August 8). Sudharsan's untimely injury could open the door for middle-order batter Sarfaraz Khan, who has consistently done well for Mumbai in domestic cricket over the past few years.
"Sai has been at the BCCI's Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru for the past few days to undergo treatment for his toe injury. His injury has almost healed, and he was thus confident that he would be declared fit today and travel to Sri Lanka. However, he still hasn't sufficiently recovered from his injury to be declared completely fit for this series. His recovery may take slightly longer," a source in the BCCI told TOI on Saturday.
It's learnt that the CoE's medical team has now become extra cautious after a few cases emerged, pacer Harshit Rana being a classic example, of players breaking down despite being cleared by the BCCI facility.
The left-hander's injury is a big setback for India considering the fact that he had slammed back-to-back centuries for India A during their shadow tour of Sri Lanka last month. A prolific batter for Gujarat ******* ans, where he opened alongside India's Test captain Shubman Gill in the IPL, Sudharsan is regarded as a key member of the Test side, with India's team management looking to give him an extended run at No. 3. The Tamil Nadu batter has featured in seven Tests and scored 383 runs at an average of 39, with three half-centuries.
However, providing huge relief to India on a day when Sudharsan was ruled out, replacing him at the critical and pivotal No. 3 spot, Karnataka batter Devdutt Padikkal slammed an unbeaten century (103 not out at the time of writing this) and is thus the favourite to bat at the one-down position in the opening Test of the series in Galle, which begins on August 15. Ironically, Padikkal too is a left-hander.
Meanwhile, in a relief for India, it's learnt that India's Test captain Shubman Gill's finger injury, which he suffered while batting in the nets, is "minor," and he will be fit in time for the first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle. The finger injury forced Gill to miss the ongoing warm-up match as a precautionary measure.
"Gill's injury isn't serious. It's like a bruise you get when your finger gets stuck in the door. He will be fine soon," a source tracking developments told this paper.
#test #series
20 days ago
Pakistan avoided a series defeat by beating the West Indies by eight wickets in the second Test in Port of Spain on Wednesday. The win ended Pakistan's eight-match losing streak in away Tests and gave them their first Test victory outside home in three years.
The two-match series finished 1-1 after the West Indies had won the first Test by 90 runs.
It was Pakistan's first away Test win since July 2023, when they defeated Sri Lanka under Babar Azam's captaincy. Since then, Pakistan went through several changes in coaches, selectors and captains, with Babar stepping down from the role twice. This time, the combination of captain Babar Azam and head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed helped Pakistan return to winning ways overseas.
Pakistan chased down the target of 75 runs on the fourth morning, reaching 77/2 shortly after the first session. Abdullah Shafique, who scored a century in the first innings, remained unbeaten on 24, while captain Babar Azam also finished unbeaten on 24.
Earlier, Pakistan bowled out the West Indies for 117 in their second innings inside the first half-hour of play on a wearing Queen's Park Oval pitch. Off-spinner Sajid Khan took 4/32 and left-arm spinner Ali Usman claimed 4/39 as the pair shared eight wickets.
The West Indies began the day on 106/3 with a lead of 60 runs, but their lower order could not add much. Ali Usman dismissed Kemar Roach and Shamar Joseph, while Justin Greaves, the last recognised batter, added only two runs before playing Mohammad Ali's delivery back onto his stumps while attempting a cross-batted shot.
The West Indies were also without opener Brandon King in the second innings. He could not bat because of a back injury suffered on Day 3 when he ran out Babar Azam with a direct hit from short cover.
Pakistan's previous away Test win had also come under Babar Azam against Sri Lanka in 2023. During Shan Masood's time as captain, Pakistan lost 3-0 in Australia, 2-0 in South Africa and 2-0 in Bangladesh.
Masood was removed as captain after Pakistan's poor run in Test cricket. Babar returned to the role but Pakistan lost the first Test against the West Indies in Tarouba, which became their eighth consecutive away Test defeat before bouncing back in Port of Spain.
The victory also changed the standings in the World Test Championship. Pakistan moved up to eighth place with 22.22% of points after two wins and four defeats in six matches. The West Indies dropped to ninth with 20.83% of points after two wins in 12 matches.
#test #Pakistan #babar #azam
The two-match series finished 1-1 after the West Indies had won the first Test by 90 runs.
It was Pakistan's first away Test win since July 2023, when they defeated Sri Lanka under Babar Azam's captaincy. Since then, Pakistan went through several changes in coaches, selectors and captains, with Babar stepping down from the role twice. This time, the combination of captain Babar Azam and head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed helped Pakistan return to winning ways overseas.
Pakistan chased down the target of 75 runs on the fourth morning, reaching 77/2 shortly after the first session. Abdullah Shafique, who scored a century in the first innings, remained unbeaten on 24, while captain Babar Azam also finished unbeaten on 24.
Earlier, Pakistan bowled out the West Indies for 117 in their second innings inside the first half-hour of play on a wearing Queen's Park Oval pitch. Off-spinner Sajid Khan took 4/32 and left-arm spinner Ali Usman claimed 4/39 as the pair shared eight wickets.
The West Indies began the day on 106/3 with a lead of 60 runs, but their lower order could not add much. Ali Usman dismissed Kemar Roach and Shamar Joseph, while Justin Greaves, the last recognised batter, added only two runs before playing Mohammad Ali's delivery back onto his stumps while attempting a cross-batted shot.
The West Indies were also without opener Brandon King in the second innings. He could not bat because of a back injury suffered on Day 3 when he ran out Babar Azam with a direct hit from short cover.
Pakistan's previous away Test win had also come under Babar Azam against Sri Lanka in 2023. During Shan Masood's time as captain, Pakistan lost 3-0 in Australia, 2-0 in South Africa and 2-0 in Bangladesh.
Masood was removed as captain after Pakistan's poor run in Test cricket. Babar returned to the role but Pakistan lost the first Test against the West Indies in Tarouba, which became their eighth consecutive away Test defeat before bouncing back in Port of Spain.
The victory also changed the standings in the World Test Championship. Pakistan moved up to eighth place with 22.22% of points after two wins and four defeats in six matches. The West Indies dropped to ninth with 20.83% of points after two wins in 12 matches.
#test #Pakistan #babar #azam
2 months ago
NEW DELHI: Pakistan's centrally contracted cricketers are set to receive significant pay hikes, with players in the newly introduced red-ball Track A category expected to benefit the most under the Pakistan Cricket Board's (PCB) new contract system for the 2026-27 cycle.
According to a reliable PCB source, a committee that includes white-ball head coach Mike Hesson and red-ball head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed has finalised draft contracts for the upcoming cycle.
The PCB has placed special emphasis on rewarding players who feature regularly in Test cricket.
"Their match fees is expected to be around 1.5 million PKR while their monthly retainer will be in range of 4 million rupees before taxes. Previously in the last contracts players were given a test match fees of around 800,000 PKR," the source said.
The new structure marks the first time the PCB has introduced format-based central contracts.
Players selected in both Track A and Track B categories - covering Test cricket and white-ball formats - are expected to be among the highest earners. Apart from match fees, they are likely to receive monthly retainers of around 4.8 to 5 million PKR.
The board has also proposed attractive performance-based incentives. According to the source, players will receive a 500 percent bonus on their match fees if Pakistan wins an ICC tournament, while winning an Asian-level event such as the Asia Cup would bring a 300 percent bonus.
The source also revealed details of the other categories. Players contracted only in Track B, which covers ODIs and T20Is, are expected to receive monthly retainers of up to 1.8 million PKR.
Meanwhile, cricketers placed in Track C - a category reserved for players involved only in T20 cricket and franchise leagues - are likely to receive monthly retainers ranging from 1.2 million to 1.5 million PKR.
Interestingly, the PCB is also considering not making public the names and categories of centrally contracted players. If implemented, it would be a first in Pakistan cricket and has already attracted criticism from some quarters.
The PCB has not yet announced how many players will receive central contracts under the new format-based system.
According to a reliable PCB source, a committee that includes white-ball head coach Mike Hesson and red-ball head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed has finalised draft contracts for the upcoming cycle.
The PCB has placed special emphasis on rewarding players who feature regularly in Test cricket.
"Their match fees is expected to be around 1.5 million PKR while their monthly retainer will be in range of 4 million rupees before taxes. Previously in the last contracts players were given a test match fees of around 800,000 PKR," the source said.
The new structure marks the first time the PCB has introduced format-based central contracts.
Players selected in both Track A and Track B categories - covering Test cricket and white-ball formats - are expected to be among the highest earners. Apart from match fees, they are likely to receive monthly retainers of around 4.8 to 5 million PKR.
The board has also proposed attractive performance-based incentives. According to the source, players will receive a 500 percent bonus on their match fees if Pakistan wins an ICC tournament, while winning an Asian-level event such as the Asia Cup would bring a 300 percent bonus.
The source also revealed details of the other categories. Players contracted only in Track B, which covers ODIs and T20Is, are expected to receive monthly retainers of up to 1.8 million PKR.
Meanwhile, cricketers placed in Track C - a category reserved for players involved only in T20 cricket and franchise leagues - are likely to receive monthly retainers ranging from 1.2 million to 1.5 million PKR.
Interestingly, the PCB is also considering not making public the names and categories of centrally contracted players. If implemented, it would be a first in Pakistan cricket and has already attracted criticism from some quarters.
The PCB has not yet announced how many players will receive central contracts under the new format-based system.
