www.thecricbuzz.com

Ishan Kishan Mammoth 270 Powers East Zone to 708 in Duleep Trophy Final

Ishan Kishan delivered one of the greatest knocks in Duleep Trophy history. The East Zone captain smashed 270 runs off 334 balls in the final against South Zone at Chennai's MA Chidambaram Stadium . His marathon innings powered East Zone to a massive total of 708 runs in their first innings . The knock has reignited conversations about his return to India's Test team. This is the story of a special innings and what it means for Indian cricket. How the Innings Unfolded? Kishan resumed his innings on Day 2 with 111 runs to his name . He had already done the hard work on the opening day. What followed was pure dominance. The left-hander batted with remarkable composure on a flat Chepauk surface . He reached his double century off 270 balls . He hit 30 fours and seven sixes during his stay at the crease . Read Also: India faces Zimbabwe in T20i Series Starting Thursday Live 2026 The knock was not just about power. Kishan showed patience and game awareness. He built crucial partnerships throughout the innings. He added 230 runs with Kumar Kushagra for the fifth wicket . Kushagra scored his maiden Duleep Trophy century with 101 runs off 132 balls . Kishan also added 140 runs with Anukul Roy for the sixth wicket . Roy contributed a useful 45 runs. Mohammed Shami chipped in with 28 runs lower down the order. Every batter played their part in building the imposing total. The Run Chase and Partnership Building Kishan's approach was clear from the start. He focused on building partnerships rather than chasing personal milestones . "I was only thinking about 50-run partnerships," Kishan said after the innings . He understood that a big total would put South Zone under pressure. The wicket had nothing for the bowlers. South Zone bowlers toiled on a lifeless pitch . Mohammed Siraj went wicketless and conceded heavily. Tripurana Vijay claimed four wickets but conceded over 180 runs . The South Zone captain Tilak Varma used defensive fields to contain the flow of runs . Nothing worked. You Must Also Like: Sri Lanka A vs India A: 2nd Unofficial Test | India A Tour of Sri Lanka 2026 Kishan exploited every scoring opportunity. He used the pull shot effectively, finding boundaries at will. He also used his feet against spinners, charging down the track to hit straight boundaries . The South Zone bowlers had no answer. Falling Short of History Kishan retired hurt on 250 runs due to cramps and fatigue . He had spent almost two full days in the middle. The Chennai heat and humidity took its toll. He later returned to the crease to push for a triple century. A triple century would have made him only the third batter in Duleep Trophy history to achieve the feat. Raman Lamba did it in 1987. Gagan Khoda followed in 2001 . Kishan fell 30 runs short. He was caught at long-on off Tripurana Vijay . He walked off to a standing ovation . Despite missing the landmark, Kishan's knock had already batted South Zone out of the contest . East Zone had more than enough runs on the board to defend. The Redemption Story This innings is special... This article was originally published on thecricbuzz.com

England vs Ireland Today Match: Live Commentary, Team Squads And Where to Watch

The third ODI between England and Ireland concluded today at New Road in Worcester, wrapping up the three-match series. Let me take you through the complete result, scorecard, and how to follow the action if you missed it. England vs Ireland: Today's Match Result England put on a commanding performance to win the third ODI, completing a 3-0 clean sweep of the Ireland team . The Final Scorecard Here is how the final England vs Ireland scorecard looks for today's match. Read Also: England Women Vs South Africa Women 2nd Semi-Final Preview: Playing XI, Pitch Report And Prediction England Innings: 291 all out (48.5 overs) Top Scorer: Sophia Dunkley smashed 119 runs off 119 balls, her highest ODI score and her second career century . Key Contributions: Dani Gibson added a quick 41, while Jodi Grewcock chipped in with 35 to help steady the innings . Ireland Bowling: Cara Murray was the standout bowler for Ireland, taking 4 wickets for 56 runs . Ireland Innings: 177 all out (44.2 overs) Top Scorer: Amy Hunter top-scored with 39 runs, but found little support from the rest of the lineup . England Bowling: The bowling attack was clinical. Lauren Filer and Mady Villiers were the pick of the bowlers, taking three wickets each . Result: England won by 114 runs . This victory secured a dominant series whitewash for the home side. Match Summary: How the Game Unfolded? Ireland won the toss and chose to bowl first . England's openers, Sophia Dunkley and Maia Bouchier, made a solid start. They put on 73 runs before Bouchier fell for 39 . You Must Also Like: India vs South Africa Highlights: Absolute Thriller! Proteas Edge Out India In Final Over Dunkley then dominated a 110-run partnership with Jodi Grewcock. She reached her century off exactly 100 balls . England looked set for a massive total at 260-4 in the 43rd over. But then things fell apart. England lost their last six wickets for just 31 runs. Dani Gibson, who had played a quick knock of 41, was run out in the chaos . England were bowled out for 291 with seven balls unused. Ireland's chase never really got going. They lost wickets at regular intervals. Amy Hunter top-scored with 39. Alice Tector added 29. But the required run rate kept climbing . Ireland's collapse: The final five wickets fell for just 10 runs . Lauren Filer and Mady Villiers finished with three-wicket hauls. The victory also marked a bittersweet moment for Ireland's Arlene Kelly, who was playing her final international match . Pre-Match Context: A Series of Changes The series was played under the leadership of a stand-in captain. With regular captain Nat Sciver-Brunt managing her fitness, Charlie Dean was given the responsibility of leading the team. This was a chance for a young and rotated England squad to gain valuable experience. Team Squads for the Final ODI Here are the full squads that took the field at New Road . England XI: Maia Bouchier, Sophia Dunkley, Jodi Grewcock, Alice Capsey (wk), Freya Kemp, Dani Gibson, Charlie Dean (c), Mady Villiers, Ryana MacDonald-Gay, Lauren Filer, Tilly Corteen-Coleman. Ireland XI: Alice Tector, Gaby Lewis (c), Amy Hunter (wk), Orla Prendergast, Rebecca Stokell, Leah Paul, Louise Little, Arlene Kelly, Cara Murray, Lara McBride, Kia McCartney. Where to Watch England vs Ireland? For... This article was originally published on thecricbuzz.com

India vs Thailand Asia Cup 2026: Shafali Blitz And Spin Magic Crush Thailand by 94 Runs!

The Dubai International Cricket Stadium witnessed a masterclass in power-hitting and spin bowling as India demolished Thailand by 94 runs in their Women's Asia Cup 2026 opener. Shafali Verma's explosive 64 off 36 balls laid the foundation, while Deepti Sharma's historic spell of 3/0 in her 150th T20I sealed the deal. Thailand, chasing 160, crumbled to 65 all out, handing India a comprehensive victory that sends a clear message to the rest of the tournament contenders. For fans searching for India vs Thailand live score updates, this match was a treat from start to finish. The Asia Cup India vs Thailand clash had everything – breathtaking hitting, spectacular bowling, and a result that showcased the gulf in class between the two sides. Thailand Win Toss, Elect to Bowl First Thailand's stand-in captain Thipatcha Putthawong won the toss and chose to field first, aiming to restrict India to 120-130 runs . Regular skipper Nannapat Koncharoenkai was unavailable due to injury, which proved to be a significant blow to Thailand's chances . Read Also: Who Won the Match Today? Cricket Match Result And Score India captain Harmanpreet Kaur confirmed that Pratika Rawal would make her T20I debut, replacing the unavailable Jemimah Rodrigues. We also thought of bowling first, but batting first is not a problem. We have spoken about being ruthless and this is an important tournament for us," Kaur said at the toss . Shafali Verma Leads India's Charge India's innings began at full throttle. Smriti Mandhana looked aggressive, scoring 19 off 10 balls before being run out . But it was Shafali Verma who truly stole the show. The flamboyant opener smashed her 19th T20I fifty off just 26 balls . Her knock of 64 from 36 deliveries included eight fours and three sixes, setting the stadium ablaze . Alongside debutant Pratika Rawal, who contributed a composed 22 off 18 balls, Shafali helped India cruise to 91/1 after 8.5 overs . India's Middle-Order Collapse Just when a 200-plus total seemed inevitable, Thailand's spinners triggered a dramatic collapse. Suleeporn Laomi led the charge with figures of 3/26 . The slide was stunning, India lost eight wickets for just 46 runs, slipping from 91/1 to 137/9 . Richa Ghosh departed for a golden duck, while Harmanpreet Kaur managed only five off nine balls . Deepti Sharma was run out for five, and what looked like a formidable total suddenly appeared under threat . You Must Also Like: England Women Vs South Africa Women 2nd Semi-Final Preview: Playing XI, Pitch Report And Prediction Kranti Gaud's late hitting – an unbeaten 15 off eight balls – helped India recover to 159/9 . It was competitive but well below what seemed possible after their flying start. India's Spin Magic Dismantles Thailand Thailand's chase never gained momentum. The Indian bowlers were relentless from the first over. Kranti Gaud removed Natthakan Chantham early, and the wickets kept tumbling . Nandani Sharma produced an impressive spell of 3/18, including two wickets in two balls . Shree Charani claimed 2/10 from her three overs . Then came the moment of the match. Deepti Sharma's Historic Spell Playing her 150th T20I, Deepti Sharma delivered something special. Her figures read 1.1 overs, 3 wickets, 0 runs . She produced a... This article was originally published on thecricbuzz.com

Who Won the Match Today? Cricket Match Result And Score

Who won the match today cricket? The Galle International Stadium was buzzing on August 18, 2026. Sri Lanka were chasing 372 runs against India in the first Test. The crowd was loud. The pressure was real. Everyone wanted to know who would win the match today cricket fans were asking. By the end of day four, India had tightened their grip on the game. Sri Lanka's top order crumbled. They finished at 84 for 4, still 288 runs short of the target. India's bowlers, led by Asitha Fernando's four-wicket haul, had done the damage earlier in the day. They bundled India out for 193 in their second innings . But that total was enough. The chase was always going to be tough. And Sri Lanka were struggling. Today Match Score Live: Full Results From August 18 Let me give you the full breakdown. I have checked multiple sources. Here is what happened across different matches today. Related Article: India vs Sri Lanka 1st Test Highlights, Score And Result Match Result Score Sri Lanka vs India (1st Test) India leading SL 84/4, need 288 more runs to win England vs Sri Lanka (3rd ODI) England won by 53 runs ENG 357/3, SL 304 all out Nepal vs Karnataka (Practice) Nepal won by 116 runs Nepal 188 all out, Karnataka 72 all out Finland vs Luxembourg (T20I) Finland won by 73 runs FIN 168/9, LUX 95 all out Germany vs Greece (T20I) Germany won by 7 wickets GRE 96 all out, GER 98/3 Israel vs Czech Republic (T20I) Israel won by 7 wickets CZE result not specified Sri Lanka vs India: The Test Match That Keeps You Guessing India set Sri Lanka a target of 372 runs. That is a big total in any Test match. On a turning track in Galle, it was always going to be a mountain to climb . Rishabh Pant top-scored for India with 66 runs. Devdutt Padikkal added 44. But it was Asitha Fernando who stole the show. He took 4 wickets for 31 runs . Sri Lanka's chase started poorly. They lost wickets early. The pressure of the chase and the quality of India's bowling were too much. For fans wanting to know who won the match today cricket enthusiasts were tracking, India were in the driver's seat by stumps. England Complete Series Sweep With 53-Run Win In Colombo England were ruthless in the third ODI. They batted first at the R.Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. They posted a massive 357 for 3 in their 50 overs . Sri Lanka tried to chase it down. They got to 304 before being bowled out. You Must Also Like: Pasindu Sooriyabandara Makes Dramatic Test Debut as Concussion Substitute Against India Harry Brook was named Player of the Match. Joe Root was Player of the Series . This was a dominant performance. England have now beaten Sri Lanka in all three ODIs. If you were following the today match score live updates, you would have seen England dominate from start to finish. Nepal Dominate Karnataka In Practice Match Nepal are preparing for the ACC Premier Cup. They played a practice match against Karnataka. And they won big. Nepal batted first. They scored 188 runs in 45 overs . Aasif Sheikh top-scored with... This article was originally published on thecricbuzz.com

Pasindu Sooriyabandara Makes Dramatic Test Debut as Concussion Substitute Against India

Galle, August 18, 2026: The first Test between India and Sri Lanka at the Galle International Stadium saw one of the most unusual debuts in cricket history. Pasindu Sooriyabandara, a 26-year-old from Sri Lanka, walked onto the field as a concussion substitute for Dinesh Chandimal. He wasn't supposed to be there. He wasn't even in the playing eleven. But cricket is a strange game. One moment you are watching from the bench. The next, you are chasing 372 runs against India, facing a debutant spinner on a turning track. Sooriyabandara's story is not about glory. It is about pressure, bad luck, and a golden duck that will be remembered for a long time. Who Is Pasindu Sooriyabandara? Let me be honest. Before August 18, 2026, most of us had no idea who Pasindu Sooriyabandara was. And that is okay. He has been grinding in Sri Lanka's domestic circuit for years. The numbers are impressive. Nearly 4,900 runs in first-class cricket at an average of 54.36. Fourteen centuries. Twenty-three fifties . Read Also: India vs Sri Lanka 1st Test Highlights, Score And Result Sooriyabandara was part of the Sri Lanka Cricket XI that played India in a warm-up game. He scored 35 and 4 in that match . So he had a feel for the Indian bowling attack. But a warm-up game is not a Test match. Nothing prepares you for walking out in the fourth innings with your team staring at 372 runs. How Did He Get Here? It started with a dive. Dinesh Chandimal, Sri Lanka's senior batter, was fielding on Day 4 of the Test. He ran to the boundary to save a run. He hit the ground hard. He hurt his shoulder and his neck. He stayed down for a while . The medical staff rushed to him. Sri Lanka Cricket released a statement. They said the scans were "clear" and there were "no signs of internal injury" . But the on-ground concussion assessment told a different story. Chandimal was ruled out. And Sooriyabandara got the call. This is where the concussion substitute rule comes in. It was introduced by the ICC in 2019 . The rule says you can replace a player if he gets a concussion. But the replacement has to be like-for-like. You cannot replace a spinner with a fast bowler. You cannot replace a batter with a bowler . You Must Also Like: Netherlands vs Nepal Cricket Match Scorecard And Highlights 2026 In this case, Chandimal was a top-order batter. Sooriyabandara was a top-order batter. It made sense. But there is a catch. The ICC recently changed the rules. Teams now have to submit a list of five designated concussion substitutes before the toss . One batter. One wicketkeeper. One seam bowler. One spinner. One all-rounder. Sooriyabandara was on that list. That is why he was cleared to play. Sooriyabandara became the fifth player in Test history to make his debut as a concussion substitute . The previous ones were Brian Mudzinganyama, Khaya Zondo, Matt Parkinson, and Bahir Shah . That is not a list of household names. And that tells you everything you need to know about the odds stacked against... This article was originally published on thecricbuzz.com

India vs Sri Lanka 1st Test Highlights, Score And Result

India walked into the Galle International Stadium for their 600th Test match with history on their shoulders. Shubman Gill, captaining the side in only his ninth Test as skipper, won a crucial toss and elected to bat first. It was a decision that would set the tone for what has become a one-sided contest. The toss was always going to matter. Galle's pitch offers something for everyone in the first two days before becoming a spinner's paradise as cracks open up. Sri Lanka's captain Dhananjaya de Silva admitted he would have batted first too, the dry surface looked good for batting . But rain had done its damage; the pitch hadn't dried properly, adding an unpredictable element to the track. India vs Sri Lanka 1st Test Highlights: What You Know So Far? For fans searching for India vs Sri Lanka 1st Test highlights, Day 1 delivered exactly what they wanted: runs, drama, and a glimpse of what Test cricket at its finest looks like. Padikkal's Redemption: From Perth Disaster to Galle Masterpiece The story of this Test begins with Devdutt Padikkal. Two years ago, he played his last Test on a treacherous Perth pitch and scored a duck followed by a scratchy 25 . That version of Padikkal seemed a distant memory when he walked out at No. 3 on Saturday. Read Also: Australia vs Bangladesh 1st Test Highlights: 13th August 2026 He walked in after Yashasvi Jaiswal's run-out – a messy mix-up with KL Rahul that saw both batters end up at the same end . Jaiswal, who looked dangerous in his 37-ball 32, was gone. That could have been a setback. Instead, it became the making of Padikkal. His innings of 167 was pure class. Not flashy, not reckless, but controlled and calculated. He played spin with soft hands, something that has been missing from India's batting in recent years. He stayed back to the spinners but used his feet when needed, sweeping and charging to disrupt their rhythm. His century came off 134 balls, and by the time he reached 150 in 215 deliveries, he had announced himself as a serious Test prospect. What struck me watching the highlights was his ability to rotate strike. He ran hard for ones and twos, making the Sri Lankan fielders work. His footwork was exceptional, and he used his crease brilliantly never letting the bowlers settle . He hit 15 fours and a six, but his innings was defined by smart cricket, not brute force. KL Rahul's Grit and the Cramp That Cost a Century KL Rahul played the perfect supporting role. His 82 was a study in patience – leaving balls outside off, defending straight, and punishing the loose deliveries . He and Padikkal added 150 runs for the second wicket, frustrating Sri Lanka's bowlers with disciplined shot selection . But here's where things got interesting. Rahul retired hurt on 77 with arm cramps . He tried to return on Day 2 but could only add five more runs before being dismissed . You Must Also Like: SL W vs PAK W 1st ODI: Chamari Athapaththu Leads Sri Lanka to 184/5 Before Rain Interruption You... This article was originally published on thecricbuzz.com

Australia vs Bangladesh 1st Test Highlights: 13th August 2026

Australia vs Bangladesh Test Where to Watch? Test cricket returned to Darwin's Marrara Stadium after 22 years, and Bangladesh's pace attack made sure it was a session to remember. For those wondering about the Australia vs Bangladesh today match, here is a comprehensive breakdown of the first day's play, where to watch the action, and what to expect from the series. Australia vs Bangladesh Live Streaming: Where to Watch? If you are looking for where to watch AUS vs Ban, the coverage is extensive across multiple regions. In Australia, you can watch the Australia vs Bangladesh Test live on Channel 7 and stream every ball on 7plus and Kayo Sports . Kayo provides ad-free coverage in play. The game is also available on Foxtel . Read Also: Ireland vs Afghanistan 1st ODI Highlights: Rain Ruins Opener as Series Starts Frustratingly! In India, the Australia vs Bangladesh live streaming is available on the JioHotstar app and website, while the television broadcast is on Star Sports Network . The match starts at 6:00 AM IST, with the toss at 5:30 AM . In Bangladesh, fans can tune into T Sports for live coverage . Australia vs Bangladesh Today Match: Day 1 Highlights Bangladesh won the toss and elected to bowl first, a decision that paid immediate dividends. The Bangladesh pace trio of Hasan Mahmud, Taskin Ahmed, and Ebadot Hossain ripped through the Australian top order in the first session . First Session: Bangladesh Dominate Australia got off to a steady start with an opening stand of 45 runs between Jake Weatherald and Travis Head. However, the introduction of Hasan Mahmud changed the complexion of the game . You Must Also Like: ENG vs IND 2nd ODI Live Streaming: Where to Watch Live Today? Weatherald falls: Mahmud struck first, removing Weatherald for 23 with an outswinger that found the edge . Head departs: Mahmud then bowled Travis Head for 22, finding the inside edge as the ball crashed into the stumps . Australia went from 45/0 to 52/2 in quick succession. Labuschagne gone: Marnus Labuschagne was dismissed for just 1, caught at second slip off Ebadot Hossain . Green out before lunch: On the final ball before lunch, Cameron Green was caught at square leg off Taskin Ahmed for 13, leaving Australia at 74/4 at the break . Post-Lunch Fightback Steve Smith, dropped on two by Tanzid Hasan at third slip, anchored a rescue mission alongside Alex Carey . The pair added 55 runs before Ebadot Hossain produced what Kerry O'Keeffe called a "ball from heaven" to bowl Carey for 19 . Taskin Ahmed then produced a beauty to knock over Beau Webster (12), crashing into the top of off stump . Smith, who survived a mix-up and a dropped catch, remained unbeaten to keep Australia's innings together . Australia vs Bangladesh 1st Test: Match Scorecard and Key Stats At the time of writing, the Australia 1st Innings scorecard read: Australia 1st Innings: 86/4 after 27.1 overs at a run rate of 3.16 . Top Scorer: Steven Smith (17 not out) and Jake Weatherald (23) . Bangladesh Bowling: Hasan Mahmud (2 wickets), Ebadot Hossain (1 wicket), Taskin Ahmed (1 wicket) . Key Moment: Steve Smith survived a dropped catch on 2 and a run-out scare, which could prove crucial . Where Can... This article was originally published on thecricbuzz.com

Hardik Pandya IPL 2027 Trade: Latest News And Updates

The IPL offseason has a new headline. Hardik Pandya's future with Mumbai Indians is the talk of the town. Rumors are flying about a potential Hardik Pandya IPL 2027 trade. But how much of this is real, and how much is just noise? I have been following this story closely. Let me break down what is actually happening, what the experts are saying, and what it means for the teams involved. Hardik Pandya IPL 2027 Trade: What We Actually Know? The speculation is intense, but the facts are few. Let's start with the confirmed situation. Mumbai Indians are conducting a comprehensive review after a disappointing IPL 2026 campaign . They finished ninth in the ten-team table. It was not a good season. Related Article: IPL 2026 KKR vs MI Today Match Prediction: Who Will Win Tonight? An official MI spokesperson stated: "Our post-season review is currently on and we are looking into all aspects. Contrary to reports, we are not engaged in conversations with regard to player trades; the same is only possible once the review is complete" . This is the only official word we have. Everything else is speculation. The review goes beyond the captaincy. It includes the leadership group, coaching staff, and overall cricket operations . This suggests MI is considering a significant overhaul. But they have not confirmed any player trades yet. The Hardik Pandya Factor: Why All the Buzz? Hardik Pandya is at the center of these rumors for a reason. He is a rare talent. A pace-bowling all-rounder who can win matches with bat and ball. His value extends beyond just statistics . However, his recent numbers are not great. In IPL 2026, he scored 206 runs and took four wickets in 10 matches . In 2025, it was 224 runs and 14 wickets . His strike rate in 2025 was impressive at 163.5, but the overall impact has been inconsistent . MI has had three contrasting seasons under his captaincy. A disastrous 2024, a playoff appearance in 2025, and another poor showing in 2026 . This inconsistency is what prompted the internal review. Which Teams Are Actually Interested? Several teams have been linked to Hardik. According to reports, seven franchises have expressed interest . The main contenders are: Chennai Super Kings (CSK): They have emerged as the frontrunners . Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR): They are also considered strong contenders . Other teams: Rajasthan Royals, Lucknow Super Giants, and Delhi Capitals have also been mentioned . But CSK's interest is complicated. CEO Kasi Viswanathan said they have not applied their minds to the Pandya trade. They want to appoint a new head coach first . Stephen Fleming has stepped down after 17 years . Only after the coach is finalized will they discuss Hardik . KKR has a different situation. They are looking for a new captain after Ajinkya Rahane's retirement . Hardik could be their long-term leader. The Trade Packages: What's Being Offered? This is where it gets interesting. Various trade packages have been proposed. CSK's Reported Offer According to a report, CSK has offered a package including Shivam Dube, Dewald Brevis, and Rs 10 crore in exchange for Hardik . They are reportedly unwilling to part with young opener Ayush Mhatre, whom MI initially wanted . You... This article was originally published on thecricbuzz.com

IND vs SL XI Live Score, Warm-Up Match: Jadeja Strikes! Sri Lanka Steady After Solid Start in Colombo

The Ind vs Sri Lanka Warm Up Match at the Nondescripts Cricket Club Ground in Colombo started with a major setback for India. Captain Shubman Gill was ruled out of the first day's play due to a finger injury. KL Rahul stepped in as captain. Sri Lanka XI won the toss and chose to bat first. The decision paid off handsomely in the opening session. India's bowlers struggled to find their rhythm, and the hosts made them pay. Toss and Team News: Gill Sits Out, Rahul Takes Charge The news came as a shock to Indian fans. Shubman Gill sustained an impact injury to his right ring finger during a practice session on Thursday. The BCCI medical team is keeping a close watch on his recovery. Read Also: Ireland vs Afghanistan 1st ODI Highlights: Rain Ruins Opener as Series Starts Frustratingly! He was rested as a precautionary measure. This is a significant blow for India, as Gill has been in exceptional form across formats. KL Rahul Leads India KL Rahul walked out for the toss in Gill's absence. This is a massive opportunity for the seasoned batter to showcase his leadership skills. The last time India played a Test series in Sri Lanka was back in 2017. Only Rahul, Kuldeep Yadav, and Ravindra Jadeja have previous Test experience in Sri Lanka from the current squad. The rest of the team will be looking to prove their mettle in unfamiliar conditions. Sri Lanka XI's Decision Sonal Dinusha captained the Sri Lanka XI. He had no hesitation in choosing to bat first. The hosts clearly wanted to exploit the batting conditions early and put India's bowling attack under pressure. The Sri Lanka XI squad includes seven members from the wider Test setup, making this a fiercely competitive warm-up fixture. Sri Lanka's Opening Salvo: A Century Stand That Demolished India's Attack The first session was a nightmare for India. Sri Lanka's openers walked out with clear intent. They were cautious initially, but the India bowlers offered them no real threat. The ball was not doing much, and the track looked placid. Madushka and Rasantha Dominate Nishan Madushka and Ravindu Rasantha faced the new ball with confidence. They saw off the early overs without any alarms. The pair started rotating the strike and then began to score freely. They raised a massive century partnership for the first wicket. India's bowlers toiled hard on a flat deck. Mohammed Siraj bowled with his usual energy but could not find the edge. Prasidh Krishna struggled for consistency. The part-timers were also ineffective. Madushka's Explosive Fifty Nishan Madushka played a breathtaking innings. He reached his half-century in style and never looked back. The pitch did not offer any significant turn or bounce, and the pace bowlers lacked penetration. The stand-in captain KL Rahul used as many as six different bowling options in the first session. Nothing worked. Madushka Punishes the Bad Balls Madushka was particularly severe on loose deliveries. His 66 off just 65 balls came with 11 fours and a massive six. He dominated the India attack. Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna bowled ten wicketless overs between them. The frustration was visible... This article was originally published on thecricbuzz.com

Ireland vs Afghanistan 1st ODI Highlights: Rain Ruins Opener as Series Starts Frustratingly!

The wait for the first ODI between Ireland and Afghanistan ended in disappointment. Persistent rain at Bready Cricket Club in Northern Ireland meant the opening match of the five-game series was abandoned without a single ball being bowled. For the Ireland team, this was an especially frustrating outcome as it marked their first 50-over fixture since May 2025 and new head coach Gary Wilson's first game in charge. Match Abandoned: What Happened? The weather had the final say on August 5, 2026. Play was due to begin at 10:45 AM local time . But persistent wet conditions at the County Tyrone ground meant the toss was delayed . A pitch inspection was called for 12:00 PM local time. Read Also: Abhishek Sharma Smashes 25 Sixes in Stunning 233: Full Innings Highlights That inspection was never completed because the rain simply did not stop . The match was officially abandoned at 12:27 PM local time after the ground was deemed unfit for play. For the players and fans who had waited for this contest, the washout was a huge letdown. Ireland were returning to ODI cricket for the first time in over a year, while Afghanistan, placed eighth in the ICC ODI rankings, were looking to continue their recent dominance over the hosts. The Bigger Picture: New Eras for Both Teams This series marks significant transitions for both sides. Gary Wilson, the former Ireland captain, is taking charge as head coach for the first time . His appointment comes after a period of change for Irish cricket, and this series is his first opportunity to stamp his authority on the squad. For Afghanistan, the changes are equally pronounced. Jonathan Trott, who spent over three years developing Afghanistan into a strong ODI unit, has departed and is now acting as a short-term consultant for the opposing side. Richard Pybus has stepped in as head coach . Furthermore, Rahmat Shah has been appointed captain, taking over from Hashmatullah Shahidi. Rahmat, Afghanistan's leading run-getter in ODIs, faces the challenge of balancing his batting with leadership duties in his captaincy debut. Series Context & Schedule The five-match ODI series is a vital opportunity for both teams to fine-tune their combinations ahead of the next year's ODI World Cup. The full schedule of the remaining matches is as follows:- 1st ODI - August 5 (Wednesday) - Washed Out at Bready 2nd ODI - August 7 (Friday) - Bready 3rd ODI - August 10 (Monday) - Belfast (Civil Service Cricket Club, Stormont) 4th ODI - August 12 (Wednesday) - Belfast 5th ODI - August 15 (Saturday) - Belfast Head-to-Head Record: Afghanistan Hold the Edge Afghanistan have had the upper hand in recent meetings. In 32 ODIs between the two sides, Afghanistan have won 18, Ireland have won 13, and one match ended with no result . You Must Also Like: Netherlands vs Nepal Cricket Match Scorecard And Highlights 2026 More significantly, Afghanistan have won the last six ODIs against Ireland. Ireland's last victory over Afghanistan came back in May 2019 . This historical context adds extra weight to the series for the hosts, who are eager to break that streak. The form guide also favors the visitors slightly. Afghanistan's last five completed ODIs show a... This article was originally published on thecricbuzz.com

Abhishek Sharma Smashes 25 Sixes in Stunning 233: Full Innings Highlights

Abhishek Sharma reminded everyone what he is capable of. Playing for Amritsar against Tarn Taran in a Punjab Inter-District Senior One-Day match, he smashed 233 runs off just 91 balls . The innings included 15 fours and a staggering 25 sixes. His strike rate was 256.04. For anyone searching for Abhishek Sharma 25 sixes innings highlights, this knock is pure gold. The scorecard is going viral. The numbers are hard to believe. But here is the thing—this innings happened at a time when he is struggling badly in international cricket. The Numbers That Broke the Internet Let us get the stats straight first. They are ridiculous. Abhishek opened the batting for Amritsar Men Senior against Tarn Taran Men Senior. He faced 91 balls. He hit 25 sixes and 15 fours . That means 202 of his 233 runs came from boundaries. Over 90% of his runs were in fours and sixes . Read Also: West Indies vs New Zealand 2026 2nd ODI Highlights | Full Match Recap He put on a 305-run opening partnership with Abhay Choudhary, who made 93 . Amritsar finished with 533 for 8 in their 50 overs . Tarn Taran had no answer. They were bowled out for 313, losing by 220 runs . The Abhishek Sharma 25 sixes innings scorecard tells a story of absolute dominance. He was eventually dismissed caught by Anikait Singh off Ashish Lowrance . But the damage was done long before that. Why This Knock Matters Right Now? Context is everything. Abhishek Sharma has been going through a terrible patch in international cricket. Before this domestic match, he had not scored a half-century in his last seven T20I innings. The Zimbabwe series was a nightmare. He scored 1, 8, and 2 in three matches . He averaged just 3.66 . Blessing Muzarabani dismissed him in all three games. Each time, the same weakness—pace outside off stump. Before that, against England, he managed 131 runs in five T20Is at an average of 26.2. Against Ireland, 49 runs in two matches at 24.5 . His T20 World Cup campaign was also forgettable. He had three ducks and averaged below 18. His overall numbers tell the story. Before the T20 World Cup, he averaged 37.05 with a strike rate close to 195. Since then, his average has crashed to 19.4, and his strike rate has dropped to 165. So when people search for Abhishek Sharma last 10 innings score, they find a lot of low scores and ducks. Three ducks against New Zealand in 2026 . Ducks against USA and Pakistan in the World Cup . It has been rough. What the Critics Are Saying? Not everyone is convinced by this domestic double century. Kris Srikkanth, the former India opener, said on his YouTube channel that opponents have "sorted out" Abhishek in international cricket . He believes selectors need to take a tough call. The word is that a call-back is not guaranteed. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is rising. Sanju Samson is firmly in the mix for opening spots. The criticism is clear. Domestic bowling attacks do not carry the same threat as international bowlers who have studied his weaknesses . A 233 in district cricket is eye-catching. But it does not fix the... This article was originally published on thecricbuzz.com

Netherlands vs Nepal Cricket Match Scorecard And Highlights 2026

I was following the Netherlands vs Nepal highlights closely on July 29. The match had huge implications for World Cup League 2 standings. Nepal desperately needed a win to keep qualification hopes alive. But it just was not their day. Let me break down everything that happened in Utrecht. Match Summary: Netherlands vs Nepal Highlights Result: Netherlands won by 57 runs Venue: Sportpark Maarschalkerweerd, Utrecht Toss: Nepal won the toss and elected to field first Match Number: ODI no. 4997 Nepal decided to bowl. That seemed like a smart call initially. The pitch tends to help swing bowlers early . And the start could not have been better. Netherlands Innings: Recovery from Early Collapse Nepal made the perfect start. Karan KC dismissed opener Cedric de Lange for a golden duck off the very first ball. 1-0. The Dutch were rattled. Read Also: ENG vs IND 2nd ODI Live Streaming: Where to Watch Live Today? The early wickets kept falling. Max O'Dowd was out for 12 . Zach Lion-Cachet fell for 16 . Bas de Leede was bowled by Lalit Rajbanshi for 13. Netherlands were reeling at 56 for 4 in the 17th over. Exactly where Nepal wanted them. Then came the fightback. Skipper Scott Edwards and Noah Croes put on a massive 115-run partnership for the fifth wicket . That was the game-changing moment. Both batsmen registered half-centuries. Edwards scored 57 off 91 balls with 3 fours . Croes top-scored with 70 off 93 balls, also hitting 3 fours . The Netherlands total: 225 for 9 in 50 overs . Nepal's bowling highlights: Karan KC was outstanding - 4 wickets for 30 runs in 10 overs, including 2 maidens Dipendra Singh Airee took 2 wickets for 30 runs in 5 overs Hemant Dhami and Lalit Rajbanshi claimed 1 wicket each A target of 226 was achievable. Nepal had chased more before. But the chase turned into a nightmare. Nepal Innings: Another Batting Collapse The Netherlands vs Nepal highlights from the chase told a different story. Nepal's batting woes continued. You Must Also Like: India A vs Afghanistan A Today Match Scorecard: Prabhsimran, Tilak Shine as IND A Sets Massive Target The innings fell apart early. Kushal Bhurtel was out for a duck on the third ball of the innings . 0-1. That set the tone. Bhim Sharki made 10. Ishan Pandey made 16 . The top order was in tatters. A brief partnership, but not enough. Opener Aasif Sheikh top-scored with 38 off 78 balls . Captain Rohit Paudel added 26 off 38 balls . They put on a 35-run stand. But it was broken in the 25th over . The middle order offered little resistance. Dipendra Singh Airee was out for 6. Aarif Sheikh made 8. Gulsan Jha made 11 . Karan KC fought valiantly down the order with 23 off 29 balls, including 2 sixes . He added 34 runs with Hemant Dhami (15 not out) . But his dismissal in the 45th over sealed Nepal's fate. Total: 168 all out in 48 overs . Netherlands bowling highlights: Kyle Klein - 3 wickets for 26 runs in 8 overs Logan van Beek - 2 wickets Roelof van der Merwe - 2 wickets Zach Lion-Cachet - 2 wickets A 57-run defeat. A clean sweep loss on the tour. Netherlands vs Nepal Prediction: What the Numbers Said? Before the match, Nepal were under immense pressure. They... This article was originally published on thecricbuzz.com

India faces Zimbabwe in T20i Series Starting Thursday Live 2026

Shreyas Iyer leads a youthful Indian side in the first T20I against Zimbabwe at Harare Sports Club on Thursday, July 23. The match begins at 4:30 PM IST, with the toss scheduled for 4:00 PM. India enter this contest after consecutive series losses to Ireland and England, searching for their first win under Iyer's captaincy. Zimbabwe, led by Sikandar Raza, are eager to test themselves against elite opposition on home soil. The India vs Zimbabwe T20 match live will be closely followed as both teams seek momentum . Match Details Detail Information Series India in Zimbabwe, 3 T20I Series, 2026 Match 1st T20I Date Thursday, July 23, 2026 Time 4:30 PM IST Venue Harare Sports Club, Harare Live Telecast (India) Unite8 Sports, DD Sports Live Streaming (India) FanCode app and website Shreyas Iyer's Challenge Searching for First Win as Captain Iyer took over a side that had lifted the ICC Men's T20 World Cup earlier this year. The transition has been difficult. India first suffered a shock 2-0 series defeat away to Ireland. This was followed by a winless tour of England, losing 4-0 after the opening game was washed out . Related Article: India vs Zimbabwe T20 Series 2026: Full Schedule, Squads, Match Timings And Live Streaming Details Iyer acknowledged the struggles but emphasized the lessons learned. "We had a rough patch in England, but there were a lot of positives out of that," he said ahead of the opening T20I. "We got to know what we have to build as a team going forward, what kind of presence of mind, awareness and adaptability we need once we step onto the field" . Adapting to Conditions Iyer admitted preparation time has been limited. "I just arrived yesterday from England," he stated. The captain stressed the importance of adapting quickly to unfamiliar conditions. "Some of us are playing here for the first time. The quicker we adapt, the better the results we will get," he explained . He also dismissed any fear of failure. Iyer wants India to leave recent disappointments behind and play with freedom. The team has been having extensive discussions about how to play as a unit going forward, especially against Zimbabwe . India's Squad and Key Players A Blend of Youth and Experience India have opted for a fresh look, combining established T20 performers with exciting young talent. Shreyas Iyer captains the side, with Tilak Varma serving as vice-captain. The squad features explosive batters like Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Rinku Singh, and teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi . Notable Inclusions and Exclusions Four uncapped players have earned their maiden T20I call-ups: wicketkeeper-batter Prabhsimran Singh, speedsters Yash Thakur and Ashok Sharma, and left-arm spin-bowling all-rounder Harsh Dubey . The return of Mayank Yadav is a significant boost. He last represented India in two T20Is in 2024 and is back after an injury-hit spell. Ravi Bishnoi has been drafted into the squad as a replacement for Varun Chakravarthy, who was ruled out with a hamstring injury . Notable Absentees: Sanju Samson: A surprising call, especially after his heroics in the T20 World Cup 2026. Mohammed Siraj & Axar Patel: Excluded to make way for new faces. Harshit Rana: Ruled out due to injury. India's Batting and Bowling Depth India's batting depth is formidable, but the spotlight will be on how quickly this relatively inexperienced... This article was originally published on thecricbuzz.com

SL W vs PAK W 1st ODI: Chamari Athapaththu Leads Sri Lanka to 184/5 Before Rain Interruption

The opening ODI between Sri Lanka Women and Pakistan Women at Hambantota's Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium promised much but delivered an incomplete picture . Chamari Athapaththu played a composed innings of 37 from 57 deliveries. Hasini Perera remained unbeaten on 23 . Sri Lanka reached 95/1 after 21 overs when rain interrupted play . The Sri Lanka vs Pakistan highlights from this rain-affected contest showcase a captain adapting her natural game. Athapaththu's measured approach contrasted with her typical aggressive style. She focused on building a foundation on a surface offering assistance to bowlers. What This Series Means for Both Sides? Points on the Line This three-match ODI series carries genuine weight in the ICC Women's Championship standings . Pakistan currently sit second with eight points from six matches . Read Also: T20 World Cup: South Africa Women Defeat Pakistan by Two Wickets at Edgbaston Sri Lanka occupy third position, also with eight points from their six games . New Zealand lead the table with 13 points from nine matches . Every point earned here impacts qualification for the 50-over World Cup . For Sri Lanka, this represents a home opportunity to leapfrog their opponents . Series Schedule The Pakistan Women's tour includes three ODIs commencing July 23 . The remaining matches are scheduled for July 25 and July 28 . Three T20Is follow on July 31, August 2, and August 4 . All matches are at Hambantota's Mahinda Rajapaksa International Stadium . Athapaththu's Measured Innings A Captain Adjusting Her Game Athapaththu faced 57 deliveries in her innings . She struck four boundaries and scored at a strike rate of 64.91 . This represented a restrained approach from a batter known for aggressive strokeplay. Her 37 runs came at nearly a run-a-ball, prioritizing stability over explosion. The captain showed excellent situational awareness. She understood the surface demanded patience. She rotated strike effectively, finding gaps for singles when boundaries weren't available. Her 50-plus ball innings provided the platform Sri Lanka needed. Building the Partnership Athapaththu's partnership with Hasini Perera was the backbone of Sri Lanka's innings . The pair added 39 runs from 58 deliveries . Perera contributed 23 from 31 balls with three boundaries . You Must Also Like: England Women Vs South Africa Women 2nd Semi-Final Preview: Playing XI, Pitch Report And Prediction The partnership developed at just over four runs per over . This reflected their understanding of match conditions. Both batters knew when to push for runs and when to defend. Their alliance provided Sri Lanka with a solid foundation after Vishmi Gunaratne's dismissal for 28. Pakistan's Bowling Discipline Syeda Aroob Shah Impresses Syeda Aroob Shah bowled with remarkable economy . Her three overs conceded just eight runs . She delivered 11 dot balls during her spell . This pressure created opportunities without being expensive. Support from the Attack Fatima Sana led the pace attack effectively . Tasmia Rubab and Umm-e-Hani provided spin options . The bowling unit maintained discipline through the powerplay and middle overs . Pakistan prevented Sri Lanka from accelerating despite losing only one wicket. Rain Interruption Weather Plays Spoilsport Rain interrupted play with Sri Lanka at 95/1 after 21 overs . The Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method loomed as a potential factor. The weather ultimately ended proceedings prematurely . Coastal Hambantota often experiences afternoon showers during July . This match served as a reminder of... This article was originally published on thecricbuzz.com

New Zealand vs West Indies 5th ODI Highlights: WI Win by 2 Wickets, NZ Take Series 3-2

West Indies ended their ODI series on a high. They beat New Zealand by two wickets in the fifth and final match. The game was played at Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, Barbados . It was a thrilling contest. The result went down to the wire. The home team held their nerve. The series was already decided. New Zealand had won the first match. West Indies came back strong. They won the second and third matches. New Zealand clinched the series in the fourth game . The final scoreline was 3-2. New Zealand won the series . But West Indies won the final battle. Shimron Hetmyer was the star. He played a match-winning knock. He remained not out on 69 . He was calm under pressure. He guided his team to victory. The New Zealand vs West Indies 5th ODI highlights were all about Hetmyer. It was a special performance. New Zealand's Innings: A Solid Total New Zealand batted first. They posted 268 for 9 in 50 overs . It was a competitive total. They had a solid start. Three of their batsmen scored half-centuries. It looked like they would score more. But they lost wickets at crucial times. Related Article: West Indies vs New Zealand 2026 2nd ODI Highlights | Full Match Recap Will Young played well. He scored 56 runs. He hit six fours and one six . He was the anchor. Nick Kelly was also impressive. He made 64 runs. He played a steady innings. Tom Latham was the top scorer. He made 69 runs. He tried to accelerate late in the innings. The Middle-Order Collapse New Zealand were 181 for 3 in the 35th over. They looked set for a big score. They were 230 for 5 with five overs left . They lost wickets in a cluster. They could not get the big finish. Alzarri Joseph bowled very well. He took two wickets. He conceded just 38 runs in his 10 overs . He was the best bowler for West Indies. The score of 268 was defendable. It was the highest first-innings total of the series . But the pitch was good for batting. The West Indies chase was on. West Indies Chase: A Rollercoaster Ride West Indies started their chase aggressively. They needed 269 runs to win. The openers were attacking. Ackeem Auguste scored 34 runs. He hit four fours and two sixes. Justin Greaves made 22 runs. They put on a quick stand of 57 runs. The home crowd was excited. Read Also: England vs New Zealand 1st Test 2026: Match Date, Time, Venue & Full Schedule They lost both openers in quick succession. Then Shai Hope and Keacy Carty steadied the innings. They put on 59 runs for the third wicket . Hope made 39. Carty scored 20. But it was a slow partnership. They played 99 balls for those runs . The pressure was building. The Hetmyer-Rutherford Partnership The game changed after Hope and Carty were out. West Indies were 123 for 4 . The chase was in balance. Then Hetmyer and Sherfane Rutherford came together. They played a brilliant partnership. They added 95 runs for the fifth wicket. Rutherford was aggressive. He hit... This article was originally published on thecricbuzz.com

India vs Zimbabwe T20 Series 2026: Full Schedule, Squads, Match Timings And Live Streaming Details

The India vs Zimbabwe T20 Series 2026 is just around the corner. And honestly, this one feels different. India have had a tough month. Three series losses in the UK. Zero T20I wins since lifting the World Cup trophy . Shreyas Iyer's captaincy debut ended in a 2-0 whitewash against Ireland . The England series was worse four losses on the trot after a washed-out opener. Now they're in Zimbabwe. A fresh start. A young squad. And a chance to finally get back to winning ways. If you're searching for Ind vs ZIM T20 Series 2026 live streaming details, schedule, or squads—you've come to the right place. I've combed through every official announcement so you don't have to. India vs Zimbabwe T20 Series 2026: Full Schedule All three matches will be played at the Harare Sports Club in Harare . Here's the complete schedule: Match Date Day Time (IST) Venue 1st T20I July 23 Thursday 4:30 PM Harare Sports Club 2nd T20I July 25 Saturday 4:30 PM Harare Sports Club 3rd T20I July 26 Sunday 4:30 PM Harare Sports Club Note the gap between matches. Two days between the first and second. Then back-to-back on the 25th and 26th. That quick turnaround could test squad depth. Related Article: IND vs ZIM: Ravi Bishnoi Replaces Injured Varun Chakravarthy for Zimbabwe T20I Series Zimbabwe haven't beaten India in a T20I series since 2015 . The hosts will want to change that record on home soil. India Squad for Zimbabwe T20Is Here's the official India squad, as announced by the BCCI : Captain: Shreyas Iyer Vice-Captain: Tilak Varma Full Squad: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Abhishek Sharma Ishan Kishan (WK) Shivam Dube Suryansh Shedge Rinku Singh Harsh Dubey Prince Yadav Yash Thakur Ashok Sharma Mayank Yadav Prabhsimran Singh (WK) Ravi Bishnoi Key Changes from the England Tour Sanju Samson is out. The selectors dropped him for this series . No official clarification on whether he's rested or omitted on selection grounds . Given he's still in India's full-strength squad for the 2026 Asian Games, the silence is curious. Varun Chakravarthy is injured. Hamstring trouble from the England tour rules him out . Ravi Bishnoi replaces him in the squad . Three players get maiden call-ups : Prabhsimran Singh (wicketkeeper-batter) Yash Thakur (fast bowler) Ashok Sharma (fast bowler) Mayank Yadav returns to the T20I setup after two years . Rinku Singh is also back . Senior players missing: Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana, and Washington Sundar are not part of the squad . Who's Coaching? Gautam Gambhir won't travel with the team. VVS Laxman will once again step in as stand-in head coach . He's done this before during other overseas assignments. Zimbabwe Squad Sikandar Raza leads the home side : Sikandar Raza (Captain), Brian Bennett, Ryan Burl, Ben Curran, Brad Evans, Clive Madande (WK), Tinotenda Maposa, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Wellington Masakadza, Tashinga Musekiwa, Blessing Muzarabani, Dion Myers, Richard Ngarava, Newman Nyamhuri, Milton Shumba. You Must Also Like: Zimbabwe to Host Bangladesh in ODI Series at Harare Sports Club Zimbabwe will back themselves on home turf. Their bowling attack—led by Blessing Muzarabani and Richard Ngarava—could trouble India's young batting lineup. Ind vs ZIM T20 Series 2026 Live Streaming and Telecast Where to Watch on TV The series will be telecast live on Zee's Unite8 Sports network . There's also a free option. DD Sports will broadcast the matches for free—but only for DD Free Dish and other DTT (Digital Terrestrial Television) consumers . If you watch DD Sports on cable TV or DTH platforms like DishTV, Airtel Digital TV, or Tata... This article was originally published on thecricbuzz.com

ENG vs IND 2nd ODI Live Streaming: Where to Watch Live Today?

I have been following this series closely. The first ODI was a thriller. India chased down 259 with 28 balls to spare. Axar Patel starred with both bat and ball . Now the action moves to Cardiff. The second ODI is set for Thursday, July 16. India leads 1-0 and can seal the series with another win . If you are looking for the ENG vs IND 2nd ODI Live Streaming details, you have come to the right place. Here is everything you need to know. Match Details: Date, Time, and Venue The second ODI will take place at Sophia Gardens in Cardiff . The match starts at 5:30 PM IST. The toss will happen at 5:00 PM IST. Read Also: West Indies vs New Zealand 2026 2nd ODI Highlights | Full Match Recap England have a decent record at this ground. They have won 10 of 18 matches here. India have won three of five . The average first-innings score is around 270. Chasing becomes tricky under lights with seam movement . Where to Watch the Live Telecast? For Indian viewers, the match will be televised live on the Sony Sports Network . This is the official broadcaster for the series in India. If you are outside India, check your local sports channels. The match is being broadcast globally through various rights holders. Where to Watch the Live Streaming? The ENG vs IND 2nd ODI Live Streaming will be available on two platforms in India: JioHotstar app and website SonyLIV app and website Both platforms require an active subscription. JioHotstar is the primary streaming partner for this series. For viewers in the UK, the match is being broadcast live on Sky Sports Cricket . Check your local streaming services for availability in your region. First ODI Recap: What Happened in Birmingham India won the first ODI by six wickets at Edgbaston . England won the toss and chose to bat first. They started well with a 61-run opening stand. Then came the collapse. You Must Also Like: England vs New Zealand 1st Test 2026: Match Date, Time, Venue & Full Schedule India took five wickets for 19 runs as England slipped to 80-5 . Joe Root and Liam Dawson rescued the innings. They put on a 121-run partnership. Root remained unbeaten on 76. Dawson scored 68 . England were bowled out for 258 in 47.5 overs . Axar Patel was the star with the ball. He took 4 wickets for 62 runs . Jasprit Bumrah bowled a miserly spell of 1-31 in nine overs . In reply, India lost Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli early. Both were out cheaply . Captain Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer then steadied the ship. They added 101 runs for the third wicket . Gill top-scored with 80 off 75 balls. He had to retire hurt with what seemed like cramps . Iyer made 35. India then lost KL Rahul quickly. The score was 160-4. Then Axar Patel and Washington Sundar took over . They put on an unbroken 102-run stand. Axar scored 57 not out. Sundar scored 52 not out. They chased down the target with 28 balls to spare . Axar won the Player of the Match award . Key Storylines for the Second ODI Shubman Gill's fitness concerns. The captain retired hurt during the... This article was originally published on thecricbuzz.com

West Indies vs New Zealand 2026 2nd ODI Highlights | Full Match Recap

Look, I've been watching cricket for over two decades. I've seen plenty of spells that turn matches. But Jayden Lennox's 5 for 19 against West Indies? That was something else. The left-arm spinner, playing only his seventh ODI at 31 years old, completely dismantled the hosts at Providence Stadium. West Indies folded for 138 after cruising at 63 for 0. New Zealand chased down the target with five wickets to spare. The five-match series now sits at 1-1. New Zealand also notched their 400th ODI victory. Here's how it all went down in Guyana. West Indies Batting: A Tale of Two Halves The Openers Get Rolling Shai Hope won the toss and elected to bat. John Campbell and Ackeem Auguste came out firing. They raced to 63 runs inside 11 overs. Campbell looked absolute class—43 off 41 balls with four boundaries and a towering six. Auguste played his role nicely with 18 off 27. The crowd was loving it. The pitch looked flat. West Indies were in control. Bracewell Snaps the Stand Michael Bracewell broke the opening partnership. He had Auguste caught at point. Three balls later, Mitchell Santner produced a ripper—kept low and crashed into Campbell's off stump. Just like that, 63 for 0 became 66 for 2. The momentum had shifted. Lennox Turns the Screw Then came Jayden Lennox. Santner brought him on as the sixth bowling option. What followed was pure carnage. Read Also: England vs New Zealand 2nd Test Live Match Analysis And Score Updates His first wicket was massive. Shai Hope, the man who smashed 87 not out in the first ODI, managed just 7. Lennox bowled him through the gates as Hope went for a drive. 86 for 3. Sherfane Rutherford finally broke the shackles. He drove Lennox through extra cover for a boundary. But the very next ball, he was bowled off the inside edge while defending. 97 for 4. Santner joined the party. He bowled Keacy Carty for 18 with a beauty that pitched on middle and turned sharply. Carty had scored 95 in the first match. This time, he was gone cheaply. West Indies slumped to 108 for 5. Lennox returned to finish the job. He bowled Gudakesh Motie and Matthew Forde in consecutive overs. Amir Jangoo's 24 was the only other resistance. The last five wickets fell for just 10 runs. West Indies were all out for 138 in the 36th over. A complete batting collapse. Lennox's Numbers Tell the Story His 5 for 19 from eight overs is special. It ranks as the third-best figures by a New Zealand spinner in ODI history. Only Ish Sodhi's 6 for 39 and Daniel Vettori's 5 for 7 are better. Four of his five wickets were bowled. That tells you everything about his accuracy on a turning track. Santner supported with 2 for 21. Bracewell picked up 2 for 51. New Zealand Chase: Latham Steadies the Ship A Brisk Start, Then Jitters Chasing 139, New Zealand openers Henry Nicholls and Will Young started well. They put on 35 runs at nearly five runs per over. Young looked solid—28 off 31 with five boundaries. Nicholls... This article was originally published on thecricbuzz.com

IND vs ZIM: Ravi Bishnoi Replaces Injured Varun Chakravarthy for Zimbabwe T20I Series

I was scrolling through my phone Sunday evening. The notification popped up. Varun Chakravarthy was out. Ravi Bishnoi was in. Another late change to the Indian squad. I have been following Indian cricket long enough to know these announcements are never simple. There is always a story behind the story. This time, it was an injury. But not just any injury. A hamstring tear that could have derailed the Zimbabwe series. Here is what happened. What it means. And why this replacement might actually work in India's favor. The Injury Nobody Wanted The third T20I against England at Trent Bridge. That is where it happened. Varun Chakravarthy pulled up while bowling. He felt something in his left hamstring. He walked off. He did not play the rest of the England series. Read Also: IND vs SA: Is Sanju Samson Benched? The Heartbreaking Selection Twist Ahead of World Cup Opener The MRI came back. Grade 2 tear. That is serious. Not a minor strain. A proper injury that needs time to heal. He is now at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. Recovering. Doing his rehab. Missing the Zimbabwe tour. Not His First Injury Varun has had a rough run. He fractured a toe during IPL 2026. He played through the pain. Then he missed the Afghanistan home series. He missed the Ireland T20Is. He only just came back for the England series. Now this. Another injury. Another spell on the sidelines. It has not been a great tour for him either. Just one wicket in the England T20Is. Economy rate of 10.28. Not his best numbers. The Replacement Arrives The selection committee acted fast. Ravi Bishnoi was named as the replacement. Bishnoi was already in England with the team. That made the switch smooth. No travel delays. No quarantine issues. Just a simple squad update. Who Is Ravi Bishnoi? He made his T20I debut in 2022. West Indies was the opposition. Since then, he has played 46 matches. Taken 64 wickets. Average of 20.45. Economy of 7.58. Those are good numbers. Especially in T20 cricket where batsmen dominate. In 2023, he was the No.1 T20I bowler in the world. He reached that ranking after a Player of the Series performance against Australia. Nine wickets in five games. Average of 18.22. His best figures in T20Is? 4/13. That came against Zimbabwe in 2024. That is a good omen. He knows how to bowl against this opposition. Recent Form Bishnoi played the first two T20Is in England. The first game was washed out. The second game at Old Trafford did not go well. He went for 60 runs in his four overs. He also bowled three no-balls. Not his best outing. But one bad game does not make him a bad bowler. He has the skill and the experience to bounce back. The Bigger Picture This was not the only change. Harshit Rana was also ruled out of the ODI series against England. Same injury. Hamstring tear. Grade 1. Less severe than Varun's. Prince Yadav replaced him in the ODI squad. Two changes on the same day. Two players injured. Two replacements named. The BCCI release was clear. "The Men's... This article was originally published on thecricbuzz.com

Washington Sundar Highest Score in Test Cricket Explained

I was scrolling through my cricket feed last week when a notification popped up. Washington Sundar had just scored another vital fifty. It got me thinking about that one innings. The one that still stings a little. The one where he got so close, yet so far. For a player who started as a net bowler on a tour to Australia, Sundar's batting has quietly become one of the most reliable aspects of his game. Everyone talks about his off-spin. I want to talk about his batting. Specifically, the Washington Sundar highest score in Test cricket. That number is 96 not out. But the story behind it is what makes it worth telling. The Day Sundar Got Stranded on 96 Ahmedabad. March 2021. The fourth Test against England. India had already won the series. But this match was about more than just pride. It was about qualifying for the World Test Championship final. India needed a win or a draw. Read Also: England vs India 1st T20I Highlights: Rain Spoils Series Opener After India Post 189/7 England batted first. They managed only 205. India's reply started solidly. Then came the collapse. Middle order crumbled. Lower order followed. Except for one man. Washington Sundar walked in at number seven. He watched wickets fall around him. But he did not panic. He built partnerships. First with Rishabh Pant. Then with Axar Patel. Two century stands. The kind of partnerships that change games. Sundar was batting beautifully. Driving through the covers. Working singles. Rotating strike. He looked calm. He looked settled. He looked like he was heading for his maiden Test century. Then the tailenders arrived. And they could not hang around. The Tailenders Who Let Him Down Sundar was on 96. India needed just five more runs for him to reach his hundred. Five runs. One boundary. A couple of twos. Anything. But the wickets kept falling. Mohammed Siraj came in. Out. Jasprit Bumrah came in. Out. Ishant Sharma walked out. He lasted a few deliveries. Then he edged one behind. India were all out for 365. Sundar was left stranded. Not out. On 96. He had run out of partners. His father was watching from the stands. He was not happy. He told reporters later that he was disappointed. He felt the tailenders should have shown more responsibility. Sundar himself took it in stride. He laughed about it later. But you could tell it hurt. Getting that close to a hundred and not getting there? That stays with you. The Numbers Behind the Knock Sundar faced 161 deliveries in that innings. He hit 10 fours and one six. His strike rate was just under 60. Not flashy. But effective. That innings was not just about runs. It was about temperament. India were in trouble when he walked in. He steadied the ship. He took the attack to the England bowlers. He showed maturity beyond his 21 years. The India England cricket match scorecard from that Test shows India won by an innings and 25 runs. Sundar's 96 was the cornerstone of that victory. Without it, India might not have made the WTC final. What Makes Sundar's Batting... This article was originally published on thecricbuzz.com

England vs India 1st T20I Highlights: Rain Spoils Series Opener After India Post 189/7

I sat down to watch the England vs India 1st T20I at Chester-le-Street with high expectations. The Riverside Ground had a buzz. The crowd was loud. The conditions were overcast. Then the match started, and within two overs, I thought India were done. Six runs. Two wickets. Sanam and Kishan gone. Abhishek Sharma walked in with the game slipping away. What followed was something else entirely. A counter-attack that left England's bowlers scrambling. A captain's knock that showed real character. And then the rain arrived, robbing us of what could have been a thrilling chase. I watched every ball of India's innings. Here's my honest take on everything that happened. I hate cricket in the rain. Not just a little. I absolutely despise it. There I was, settled on my couch. Tea in hand. Ready for a proper contest between bat and ball. England vs India. Chester-le-Street. Series opener. The atmosphere on TV was electric. Then the first two overs happened. India were 6 for 2. Samson gone. Kishan run out. I thought to myself – here we go again. Another Indian batting collapse. Another match slipping away. But Abhishek Sharma had other plans. The Toss and What It Meant? Shreyas Iyer won the toss. He chose to bat first. Read Also: Zimbabwe to Host Bangladesh in ODI Series at Harare Sports Club Overcast conditions. Green pitch. Most captains would have bowled first. Iyer backed his batters. Bold call. It nearly backfired. That Dreadful Start Sanju Samson walked in. He walked back. One run. A simple catch to Tom Banton at backward point. Saqib Mahmood got him. India were 5 for 1. Two balls later – disaster. Ishan Kishan tried a quick single. Abhishek Sharma sent him back. Too late. The bails came off. Kishan was gone for a duck. India were 6 for 2. I remember leaning forward. This felt all too familiar. The Ireland series ghosts were back. Kishan had two ducks in two matches. Samson kept failing. Then Abhishek did something unexpected. He attacked. Abhishek Sharma – The Game Changer Abhishek Sharma decided caution was overrated. He smashed everything. 59 runs off 24 balls. Six fours. Four sixes. Pure brutality. Luke Wood had no answers. Mahmood got hit for 4, 6, 6 in one over. Abhishek hammered Wood for three consecutive fours. The record: He became the fastest batter from a Full Member nation to reach 100 sixes in T20Is. His fifty came in 20 balls. What made it special: He didn't slog wildly. He read lengths. He picked his spots. Clean hitting. No luck involved. Sam Curran eventually trapped him LBW. But the damage was done. India had raced to a strong position. Iyer's Calm Response When Abhishek fell, India needed someone steady. Shreyas Iyer delivered. 68 runs off 47 balls. Six fours. One six. Classic anchor innings. He didn't try to copy Abhishek. He rotated strike. Found gaps. Kept runs flowing. You Must Also Like: India A vs Sri Lanka A Live Score and Highlights: Key Player Stats And Match Summary Milestone: Iyer crossed 5,000 international runs during this knock. Important for a captain under pressure. Key partnerships: 82 runs with Abhishek for the third wicket 36 with Tilak Varma 41 with Shivam Dube This was captaincy with the bat. He held things... This article was originally published on thecricbuzz.com

Zimbabwe to Host Bangladesh in ODI Series at Harare Sports Club

The Harare Sports Club has that special morning energy. We're about two hours from the first ball of the Zimbabwe vs Bangladesh ODI series, and honestly, I'm already thinking about the toss. The Zimbabwe vs Bangladesh today match prediction feels trickier than usual. These two sides last played a 50-over game against each other way back in August 2022, and a lot has changed since then . I've been following this tour closely. The hosts won the one-off Test by an innings and 85 runs—that's a proper hammering . But white-ball cricket is a different beast entirely. Bangladesh have brought back their big-name pacers for this leg, and that changes everything. Match Details You Actually Need Detail Information Match Zimbabwe vs Bangladesh, 1st ODI Venue Harare Sports Club, Harare Date July 6, 2026 Time 9:30 AM local (1:00 PM IST) Live Streaming FanCode (India), T Sports & Nagorik TV (Bangladesh) Bangladesh captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz won the toss and elected to bowl first . That's a significant call. The early moisture at Harare traditionally helps seamers in the first hour, and the visitors want to exploit that straight away. Head-to-Head Record: Numbers Don't Lie Here's the thing about this fixture. Bangladesh have dominated this rivalry historically. Out of 81 ODIs played between these sides, Bangladesh have won 51 matches while Zimbabwe have managed 30 victories . Read Also: England Women Vs South Africa Women 2nd Semi-Final Preview: Playing XI, Pitch Report And Prediction That's a massive gap. But numbers don't tell the full story. Zimbabwe's recent Test win has shifted something psychologically. The hosts aren't walking onto that field with any inferiority complex today. The Harare Pitch – What to Expect? I've watched enough cricket at Harare Sports Club to know the surface offers something for everyone . Seamers early on: There's usually some moisture in the morning. The quicks get movement for the first 10-12 overs. Both sides have quality pacers who can exploit this. Spinners come into play later: As the pitch dries and the ball softens, spin becomes a factor. The average first-innings score at this venue is just 227 . That's low by modern ODI standards. Chasing is the percentage play: Teams batting second have won 98 matches at this ground compared to 87 for teams batting first . That's why Bangladesh's decision to bowl first makes statistical sense. The weather looks clear. There's a 2% chance of rain, and temperatures around 21°C . Cloud cover at 69% should keep the pitch helpful for longer. Squads – Who's Available? Zimbabwe Squad Richard Ngarava leads this side, and he's got quality around him. Sikandar Raza and Ryan Burl are back, which strengthens the middle order significantly . The batting unit features Brian Bennett, Ben Curran, and Craig Ervine, along with wicketkeeper Clive Madande. The bowling attack includes Blessing Muzarabani, Brad Evans, and Wellington Masakadza. Bangladesh Squad This is a strong ODI unit. They've brought in their frontline pacers for this series. Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Shoriful Islam, and Nahid Rana form a pace attack that would trouble most batting lineups . You Must Also Like: Most Valuable IPL 2026 Player: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Wins MVP Mehidy Hasan Miraz leads the side. The batting has Najmul Hossain Shanto, Towhid Hridoy, and Soumya Sarkar. Important note: Litton Das is... This article was originally published on thecricbuzz.com

England Women Vs South Africa Women 2nd Semi-Final Preview: Playing XI, Pitch Report And Prediction

The ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 has reached its business end. England Women and South Africa Women are set to clash in the second semi-final at The Oval in London. This is a knockout game. A place in the final against Australia is at stake. For those searching for England women vs South Africa women highlights, this preview will give you everything you need. We will look at the likely playing XIs. We will analyze the pitch. We will offer an honest prediction based on what we have seen in this tournament. The Background: Two Teams With Different Journeys England have been flawless in this tournament. They have won all five group matches. Their batting has been explosive. They posted scores of 164, 186, and a tournament-best 219. Their bowlers have backed up those totals. Read Also: Australia Women Vs West Indies Women: Crucial Matchups, Team News and Predictions | T20 World Cup Semi-Final South Africa have had a tougher path. They won four of their five group games. Their only loss came against Australia. They have not been as consistent. But they have shown they can fight. England's Dominance Heather Knight's team has been the most impressive side in the tournament. They have beaten every opponent convincingly. The batting lineup has fired consistently. Danni Wyatt-Hodge has been the standout performer. She has three half-centuries. She is currently the leading run-scorer in the tournament. The bowling attack has also adapted well. Sophie Ecclestone remains the world's number one T20I bowler. She controls the middle overs brilliantly. The pace attack of Lauren Bell and Dani Gibson has been effective with the new ball. South Africa's Resilience Laura Wolvaardt's team has shown character. They have won close games. They beat Bangladesh and Scotland in tight chases. They lost to Australia. But they bounced back well. Marizanne Kapp has been their best player. She has taken wickets and scored runs. The pace attack is their biggest strength. Shabnim Ismail, Ayabonga Khaka, and Kapp have taken 25 wickets between them. Team News: Sciver-Brunt Returns This is the biggest news. England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt is fit to play. She missed the last two group matches with a calf injury. Many thought she might miss the semi-final. But she has recovered. Her return is a massive boost. She is a world-class all-rounder. She brings experience and leadership. England coped well without her. They won under stand-in captain Charlie Dean. But having Sciver-Brunt back makes them stronger. The Selection Dilemma Sciver-Brunt's return creates a selection headache. A good headache. Sophia Dunkley has been excellent at number three. She scored 57, 14, and 49 not out in her absence. But she is likely to miss out. Captain Sciver-Brunt admitted someone will be "really disappointed". That is the reality of a strong squad. It shows how deep England's batting lineup is. Predicted Playing XIs Here is the likely starting eleven for both teams. England Women (Probable XI) Danni Wyatt-Hodge, Amy Jones (wk), Nat Sciver-Brunt (c), Alice Capsey, Heather Knight, Freya Kemp, Dani Gibson, Charlie Dean, Sophie Ecclestone, Linsey Smith, Lauren Bell This lineup has power and depth. The top six can all... This article was originally published on thecricbuzz.com

Sri Lanka A vs India A: 2nd Unofficial Test | India A Tour of Sri Lanka 2026

I have been following this India A tour closely. The first unofficial Test ended in a draw . Rain spoiled the final day in Galle. That was disappointing. The second match starts on July 2 at the same venue. That is the one I am watching closely. The series is level at 0-0. Both teams have something to prove. What Happened in the First Test? Before we talk about the second match, let me recap the first one. It ended in a draw . But there were standout performances. Read Also: Australia Women Vs West Indies Women: Crucial Matchups, Team News and Predictions | T20 World Cup Semi-Final India A first innings: They declared at 452 for 6 . Sai Sudharsan scored 132. Dhruv Jurel remained unbeaten on 141. That partnership was the backbone. Sri Lanka A first innings: They managed 330. Nuwanidu Fernando top-scored with 84. Ashen Bandara added 70. Auqib Nabi picked 4 wickets for India A. India A second innings: They declared at 189 for 8. Devdutt Padikkal scored 67. Ayush Pandey made 38. Dilum Sudeera took 5 wickets for Sri Lanka A. Sri Lanka A chase: They reached 70 for 2 in 15 overs. Then rain arrived. The match ended in a draw. No result. No winner. Key Players to Watch These are the names you need to track. They can change the game. For India A Dhruv Jurel: He scored 141 not out in the first innings. He is the most reliable batter in this squad. His temperament stands out. He does not panic. He builds innings patiently. He will be crucial. Sai Sudharsan: He scored 132 in the first Test . His technique is solid. He plays spin well. He plays pace equally well. He is a complete batter. Devdutt Padikkal: He scored 67 in the second innings . He is in good touch. He can anchor the innings. He can accelerate when needed. Auqib Nabi: He took 4 wickets in the first innings . He is a right-arm pacer from Jammu and Kashmir. He bowls with good pace and hits the right lengths. He is the leader of the bowling attack. For Sri Lanka A Nuwanidu Fernando: He scored 84 in the first innings . He held the innings together. He is the most dependable batter for Sri Lanka A. Ashen Bandara: He scored 70 in the first innings . He is consistent. He does not give his wicket away cheaply. Sahan Arachchige: He scored 72 in the first innings . He is a left-arm spinner. He bowls tight lines. He can bat too. Dilum Sudeera: He took 5 wickets in the second innings . He is a left-arm spinner. He gets turn and bounce. He was the difference in the second innings. The 2nd Unofficial Test Preview The second unofficial Test starts on July 2 . The venue is the same as the first. Galle International Stadium. That is a ground that helps spinners. The ball turns from day one. It gets worse as the match progresses. India A will go in with confidence. They dominated the first Test. They scored 452 in their first innings. They have the batting depth. Sri Lanka A fought back well. They scored 330. They bowled well in the second innings. The pitch... This article was originally published on thecricbuzz.com

Australia Women Vs West Indies Women: Crucial Matchups, Team News and Predictions | T20 World Cup Semi-Final

The first semi-final of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 is here. Australia takes on West Indies at The Oval today. The match starts at 7:00 PM IST (2:30 PM local time). This is the game everyone has been waiting for. The six-time champions against the 2016 winners. One team has been unstoppable. The other has scraped through. That is what makes knockout cricket beautiful. Form goes out the window. One bad over can change everything. Let me break down what to expect. I have watched every Australia match in this tournament. I have seen West Indies' ups and downs. Here is my honest take on the key battles, team news, and who has the edge. How Australia Reached the Semi-Final? Australia has been flawless. Five matches. Five wins. No one has come close to beating them. Their net run rate is +3.882. That is absurd dominance. They crushed South Africa by 65 runs in the opener. Read Also: India vs South Africa Highlights: Absolute Thriller! Proteas Edge Out India In Final Over They beat Pakistan by 113 runs. They chased down 171 against India at Lord's. That chase was the highest successful chase in Women's T20 World Cup history. What stands out? Everyone contributes. Australia does not rely on one player. Their batting line-up has depth. Their bowling attack has variety. Their fielding is sharp. They do not give you easy runs. They do not drop catches under pressure. That is why they have made every single T20 World Cup semi-final since the tournament began. West Indies' Rocky Road to the Knockouts West Indies took the hard route. They beat New Zealand in their opening match. Shemaine Campbelle scored her first T20I fifty, an unbeaten 90, to chase down 162. That was a brilliant win. Then they beat Scotland and Sri Lanka. Three wins in four matches. Things looked good. Then the wheels came off. They lost to England. They lost to Ireland. That Ireland loss was bad. They could not defend 129. Chinelle Henry top-scored with 27 but it was not enough. They needed England to beat New Zealand to qualify. That happened. West Indies scraped through on net run rate. They finished second in Group B. Sri Lanka had the same points but a worse net run rate. That is how close it was. Their form is patchy. They have lost two matches in a row. Confidence might be low. But here is the thing. Knockout cricket rewards teams that peak at the right time. West Indies have match-winners. If they fire, Australia will have a game on their hands. Head-to-Head Record The numbers do not favor West Indies. Australia has won 17 of the 19 T20Is played between these two teams. That is a 89% win rate. In T20 World Cups, Australia leads 5-1. West Indies' only World Cup win against Australia came in the 2016 final. That was a decade ago. The game has changed since then. But here is the catch. West Indies have beaten Australia twice. Hayley Matthews was the difference both times . In October 2023, she scored 132 off... This article was originally published on thecricbuzz.com

No Place for Forced Changes: Sitanshu Kotak Explains Sooryavanshi Selection Stance

The Indian cricket team touched down in Belfast with a problem most sides would envy. They have a 15-year-old batting prodigy who just smashed 776 runs in the IPL, breaking records for fun. Yet, Sitanshu Kotak explains Sooryavanshi selection with a refreshing dose of honesty that cuts through the hype. The batting coach made it clear that giving Vaibhav Suryavanshi a debut cannot come at the cost of dropping someone who is already scoring runs for the team. He calls it a "fine line" between creating an opportunity and being unfair to another player . For a team fresh off a World Cup win, this is the kind of tough call that separates good management from great management . Why Kotak Is Pushing Back on the Hype? The noise around Suryavanshi is deafening. The 15-year-old from Bihar has been breaking age-group records for fun . He smashed a 37-ball hundred in the IPL and looked unbothered against the world's best fast bowlers . But Kotak isn't getting swept away. Read Also: How Kuldeep Yadav Won Player of the Match in DC vs KKR IPL 2026 Thriller? He pointed out that the teenager has already faced Jofra Archer and other elite quicks in the IPL. Nothing seems to faze him . But that doesn't automatically mean he walks into the playing XI for the T20I series against Ireland. The coach's logic is simple. There are players in the squad who have been scoring runs consistently. Dropping them just to give a young gun a chance feels wrong. I've seen this happen in club cricket too. A talented kid shows up, and everyone wants to shove him into the lineup. But you end up alienating the guys who put in the hard yards. Kotak is protecting that dressing room balance. He also made an interesting point about the team culture. He believes Suryavanshi won't feel nervous if he gets the nod. The senior players will make him comfortable. But if he doesn't play, that's okay too. Just being part of the Indian team environment is a massive step for a 15-year-old. The Reality of India's Selection Headache India has a problem that would make most cricketing nations weep. They have too much talent. Kotak admitted that even the selectors have a headache with the amount of options available. He's actually relieved he isn't the head coach or captain because he doesn't have to make those tough calls. But he was firm on one principle. Performers cannot be ignored. He believes the guys who are winning games for the team deserve respect. The BCCI has a system where players keep coming through the ranks. You can't just toss them aside for the next shiny object. This is a lesson for any team sport. You ride the hot hand. You reward performance. If you start making changes based on potential rather than form, you lose the dressing room. Kotak is essentially saying, "Let the players who are doing the job keep doing it. The kid will get his time." Who Is Vaibhav Suryavanshi? A Quick Breakdown Vaibhav Suryavanshi date of birth is March 27, 2011 . He is just... This article was originally published on thecricbuzz.com

India vs South Africa Highlights: Absolute Thriller! Proteas Edge Out India In Final Over

I watched this match with my heart in my throat. India started strong. They had South Africa on the ropes. Then Marizanne Kapp happened. The India Vs South Africa Highlights from this game will be replayed for years. This is not just a match report. It is an honest look at what went right, what went horribly wrong, and what it means for the rest of the tournament. I have no affiliation with any team. I am just a cricket fan who watched every ball. The Match That Changed the Group The India vs south Africa T20 2026 clash was a Group A match of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup. It was played at Old Trafford in Manchester on Sunday, June 21, 2026. Read Also: T20 World Cup: South Africa Women Defeat Pakistan by Two Wickets at Edgbaston This was not a dead rubber. This was a game with massive stakes. India had won their first two matches against Pakistan and Netherlands . South Africa had lost their opener to Australia. A win for India would have all but sealed their semifinal spot. A win for South Africa would blow the group wide open. South Africa won. By six wickets. With five balls to spare. India's Innings: A Start That Promised More India won the toss and chose to bat . It was a landmark day for Harmanpreet Kaur. She became the first cricketer, male or female, to play 200 T20 internationals. The start was electric. Shafali Verma smashed 31 off just 15 balls . She hit three fours and a six. India raced to 59 for 2 at the end of the powerplay. They were on track for a total well above 170. It looked like a winning total. Then the wheels came off. South Africa's bowlers fought back. Marizanne Kapp took 2 for 27. Shabnim Ismail took 2 for 28. India's middle order could not accelerate. Deepti Sharma made a valuable 29 off 21 balls. Harmanpreet scored 24 off 22 . But India managed only 42 runs in the final five overs . They finished on 158 for 7. It was a competitive total. But it was not the dominant one they should have posted. South Africa's Chase: The Kapp Show India's bowlers gave them a perfect start. Left-arm spinner Shree Charani was brilliant. She took 3 wickets for 24 runs . She even bowled a double-wicket maiden in the powerplay. South Africa were reduced to 25 for 2 in the sixth over. This is when Kapp walked in. You Must Also Like: England Women vs New Zealand Women 3rd T20I Full Match Highlights 2026 Marizanne Kapp had already taken two wickets with the ball. Now she was going to win the game with the bat. She joined Tazmin Brits at the crease. The pair started slowly. They reached 59 at the halfway mark. The run rate was creeping above 10. It looked like India was in control. Then Kapp shifted gears. She and Brits put on 97 runs for the third wicket. Brits made a steady 40 off 36 balls. Kapp was the aggressor. The turning point came in the field. Radha Yadav was the... This article was originally published on thecricbuzz.com

T20 World Cup: South Africa Women Defeat Pakistan by Two Wickets at Edgbaston

The Pakistan vs south Africa T20 2026 clash at Edgbaston turned out to be a classic encounter that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the very last delivery. South Africa Women secured their first victory of the tournament by defeating Pakistan by two wickets in a low-scoring thriller that showcased the very best of women's cricket. This victory was crucial for the Proteas who had suffered a heavy defeat against Australia in their opening match. For Pakistan, it was their second consecutive loss after falling to India, making their path to the semi-finals increasingly difficult . The match at Edgbaston had everything – brilliant bowling, a stunning comeback, and a nervy chase that went down to the wire. Marizanne Kapp Sets the Tone with the Ball The Early Breakthroughs Marizanne Kapp demonstrated exactly why she is considered one of the finest all-rounders in women's cricket. She struck with the very first ball of the match, trapping Muneeba Ali LBW after the original not out decision was overturned on review. Kapp wasn't finished yet, as she returned to clean bowl Gull Feroza on the final delivery of the opening over. These early breakthroughs put immense pressure on Pakistan's batting line-up from the very start. Kapp's Three-Wicket Haul The veteran seamer completed her three-wicket haul in her second over when she trapped Ayesha Zafar LBW . Her figures of 3/23 from four overs were instrumental in reducing Pakistan to a precarious position. Kapp's ability to swing the ball both ways and hit the right areas made it nearly impossible for Pakistan's top order to settle. Watching her bowl, you could see the experience and skill that has made her one of the most feared bowlers in world cricket. Pakistan's Self-Destruction The Run-Out Epidemic Pakistan's innings was characterized by poor running between the wickets. The team suffered four run-outs, three of which were particularly avoidable. Rameen Shamim was caught short after a mix-up with Iram Javed, then Javed herself fell to another piece of poor running. The most unfortunate run-out involved Nashra Sundhu, who was stranded at the non-striker's end after her partner Fatima Sana collided with the bowler . These run-outs left Pakistan reeling at 50/8, staring at what seemed like a certain embarrassing total. A Collapse That Hurt Pakistan Badly When the scoreboard showed 50/8 in the 11th over, Pakistan appeared destined to be bowled out for one of their lowest totals in World Cup history. The South African bowlers, led by Kapp and supported by Shabnim Ismail and Ayabonga Khaka, had completely dominated the contest. The Pakistan dressing room must have been filled with despair. But cricket has a habit of producing unexpected heroes. Fatima Sana's Counter-Attacking Masterclass The Captain's Rescue Act Fatima Sana, Pakistan's captain, produced an innings of remarkable courage and skill when her team needed it most. Coming to the crease at 33/6, she watched wickets tumble at the other end before finding an unlikely partner in Tuba Hassan. Sana remained unbeaten on 55 from just 38 balls, an innings that included six fours and two sixes. Her strike rotation and ability to find the boundary when required transformed what... This article was originally published on thecricbuzz.com

England vs New Zealand 2nd Test Live Match Analysis And Score Updates

England faces New Zealand in the second Test at The Oval. The match started on June 17, 2026. England leads the three-match series 1-0 after winning at Lord's by 115 runs. But this game feels different. England's team looks completely changed. Five players are out. Three debutants are in. And Joe Root captains for the first time in four years. Here is the live action, score updates, and a proper analysis of everything happening at The Oval. Match Summary – Day One Toss: England won and chose to bowl first. Root made the call immediately after winning the toss. Related Article: England faces New Zealand in T20 World Cup Super 8 Match Current Score: New Zealand 42/1 after 16 overs. Key Wicket: Matthew Fisher struck early. He removed Devon Conway for 9 runs. Fisher's first Test wicket in four years. The ball was full and angled down leg. Conway nicked it. Debutant wicketkeeper James Rew took a sharp catch behind the stumps. That is a dream start for both players. Batters at the Crease: Tom Latham is unbeaten on 26. Henry Nicholls is 7 not out. They are rebuilding slowly. Bowling Figures: Matthew Fisher: 5 overs, 3 maidens, 5 runs, 1 wicket. Outstanding control. Jofra Archer: 4 overs, 1 maiden, 12 runs, 0 wickets. Economical, beat the bat repeatedly. Sonny Baker (debut): 3 overs, 12 runs, 0 wickets. Promising start. Why So Many Changes? The Chaos Behind England's Team A lot happened between Lord's and this match. England's selectors had to scramble. Ben Stokes Dropped: England's regular captain is out. He and fast bowler Gus Atkinson broke team curfew after the Lord's win. Disciplinary action followed. Root leads the side in his absence. Ollie Robinson Injured: The player of the match from the first Test is injured. He troubled New Zealand batters at Lord's. His absence is a blow. Jamie Smith on Leave: The first-choice wicketkeeper missed the match. He is away for the birth of his second child. Three Debutants: James Rew (wicketkeeper), Jordan Cox (batter), and Sonny Baker (fast bowler) are all playing their first Test. That's a lot of inexperience in a crucial match. Shoaib Bashir Omitted: The young spinner is left out. England went with an all-seam attack for the damp conditions. The mood in the dressing room must be strange. A new captain. Three new faces. A disciplinary cloud. That's a lot to handle. Playing XI – England vs New Zealand England (Batting Order) Ben Duckett Emilio Gay Jacob Bethell Joe Root (Captain) Harry Brook James Rew (Wicketkeeper – Debut) Jordan Cox (Debut) Jofra Archer Josh Tongue Matthew Fisher Sonny Baker (Debut) New Zealand (Batting Order) Tom Latham (Captain) Devon Conway Henry Nicholls Rachin Ravindra Daryl Mitchell Tom Blundell (Wicketkeeper) Glenn Phillips Nathan Smith Kyle Jamieson Matt Henry Will O'Rourke Live Commentary – Key Moments First Hour – England On Top Root's decision to bowl looked right immediately. The pitch had moisture. The ball seamed around. New Zealand's openers struggled. You Must Also Like: England vs New Zealand 1st Test 2026: Match Date, Time, Venue & Full Schedule Fisher Strikes – Conway Out Fisher bowled a full delivery angled down leg. Conway tried to flick it. The ball found the edge. Rew, behind the stumps, took a clean catch. New Zealand was 14/1. Archer Puts Pressure Archer bowled four overs for just 12 runs. He beat Latham's bat multiple... This article was originally published on thecricbuzz.com

India vs Pakistan Women's T20 World Cup 2026 Standings Update

India Women's National Cricket Team vs Pakistan Women's National Cricket Team standings tell a clear story. But numbers only capture half the truth. The India W vs Pakistan W world cup 2026 clash at Edgbaston on June 14 delivered exactly what fans expected. India won by 64 runs. Yet anyone watching saw something deeper than the scoreboard. This wasn't just another win. It was a statement about where women's cricket in both nations currently stands. Let me break down what actually happened, why the gap exists, and what these standings really mean for both teams moving forward. Where Do India and Pakistan Stand Right Now? The ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 points table shows India sitting pretty in second place within Group A after their opening match. Australia leads the group with a net run rate of 3.250. India follows closely at 3.200. Both teams have two points from one win. Read Also: Muneeba Ali Highest ODI Score: Career-Best 107 vs Ireland Here is the full Group A picture: Team Matches Won Lost Net Run Rate Points Australia 1 1 0 +3.250 2 India 1 1 0 +3.200 2 Bangladesh 1 1 0 +0.407 2 Netherlands 1 0 1 -0.407 0 Pakistan 1 0 1 -3.200 0 South Africa 1 0 1 -3.250 0 Pakistan sits at the bottom. That negative 3.200 net run rate hurts. It means they have a mountain to climb in remaining matches. The Head-to-Head Reality Check Let me give you the raw numbers first. Then I will tell you what they actually mean. Overall T20I record between India and Pakistan: Total matches: 16 India wins: 13 Pakistan wins: 3 Within Women's T20 World Cups : Total matches: 9 India wins: 7 Pakistan wins: 2 ODI record (yes, they play 50-over cricket too) : Total matches: 12 India wins: 12 Pakistan wins: 0 That last stat is brutal. Pakistan has never beaten India in an ODI. Never. In 20 years of trying. Breaking Down Pakistan's Three Wins Here is what most articles won't tell you. Pakistan's three victories came in very specific circumstances. First win: October 2012 at Galle. They won by 1 run. One run. That is as close as cricket gets. Second win: March 2016 in New Delhi. They won by 2 runs. Again, a nail-biter. Third win: October 2022 in Sylhet (Asia Cup). They won by 13 runs. Notice the pattern? Two wins came in ICC World Cups. One came in the Asia Cup. But more importantly, all three wins were close. Pakistan has never dominated India. Not once. I have watched every India-Pakistan women's match since 2016. The scorelines tell the truth. India controls the game 90 percent of the time. The 2026 Edgbaston Match: What Actually Happened? Let me walk you through the June 14 clash because the Ind-w vs PAK-w T20 scorecard only tells part of the story. India batted first. They posted 175 runs for 7 wickets in their 20 overs. Pakistan's response? Bowled out for 114 in 18 overs. You Must Also Like: ICC Women's T20 World Cup: Live Score, Breakthrough Moments and Match Analysis A 61-run victory sounds comfortable. It was. But here is what stood out to anyone watching closely. India's batting depth: Smriti Mandhana looked sharp. Shafali Verma attacked from ball one. Richa Ghosh finished like she always does. But the real difference? India's lower order can actually bat. Pakistan's cannot. Bowling discipline: Renuka Singh Thakur swung the new ball. Deepti Sharma choked the middle overs. Pakistan never found breathing room. Fielding gap: This... This article was originally published on thecricbuzz.com