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Punjab Kings (PBKS) are searching for a new bowling coach and fielding coach after two members of Ricky Ponting’s coaching staff recently resigned, taking the total number of staff departures from the franchise to three since the end of IPL 2026. According to media reports, fielding coach Brad Haddin and bowling coach James Hopes have stepped down after taking up roles in the Big Bash League (BBL).&nbsp;&nbsp;Earlier this year, Sairaj Bahutule also left PBKS after being appointed as the bowling coach of the Indian men’s cricket team.&nbsp;The report added that the PBKS management will suggest potential replacements, but Ponting will have the final say. The former Australia captain joined PBKS ahead of IPL 2025 and guided the team to the playoffs in his first season, their first appearance in the knockouts since 2014.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-thanks-ajit-agarkar-for-some-truly-special-moments-as-india-men-s-chief-selector-1791443263984">BCCI thanks Ajit Agarkar for 'some truly special moments' as India men's chief selector</a>&nbsp;PBKS went on to reach the final in 2025 but lost to Royal Challengers Bengaluru. In IPL 2026, however, they finished fifth despite making a strong start to the season.&nbsp;The arrival of Shreyas Iyer as captain and Ponting as head coach has brought a major change in PBKS’ fortunes over the last two seasons.&nbsp;After finishing runners-up in 2014, PBKS failed to finish higher than fifth for the next 10 seasons, however, the Iyer-Ponting combination helped the team top the points table last season.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-earned-that-love-messi-s-wife-shares-heartfelt-message-as-football-icon-bids-farewell-to-international-stage-1791451909365">‘You earned that love’: Messi’s wife shares heartfelt message as football icon bids farewell to international stage</a>&nbsp;Ponting had joined the franchise after leaving Delhi Capitals, while Iyer became PBKS’ most expensive signing after they paid INR 26.75 crore for him at the mega auction, making him the second-most expensive player overall at the time.&nbsp;Iyer’s strong performances with the bat and his leadership also helped him earn the India T20I captaincy earlier this year.&nbsp;Ponting, meanwhile, also works as the head coach of Major League Cricket side Washington Freedom and is involved in broadcasting.

James Hopes and Brad Haddin have stepped down as Punjab Kings’ bowling and fielding coaches, respectively. Hopes will now coach Queensland and Brisbane Heat, while Haddin takes charge of New South Wales.

Punjab Kings (PBKS) are searching for a new bowling coach and fielding coach after two members of Ricky Ponting’s coaching staff recently resigned, taking the total number of staff departures from the franchise to three since the end of IPL 2026. According to media reports, fielding coach Brad Haddin and bowling coach James Hopes have stepped down after taking up roles in the Big Bash League (BBL). Earlier this year, Sairaj Bahutule also left PBKS after being appointed as the bowling coach of the Indian men’s cricket team. The report added that the PBKS management will suggest potential replacements, but Ponting will have the final say. The former Australia captain joined PBKS ahead of IPL 2025 and guided the team to the playoffs in his first season, their first appearance in the knockouts since 2014. Also Read - BCCI thanks Ajit Agarkar for 'some truly special moments' as India men's chief selector PBKS went on to reach the final in 2025 but lost to Royal Challengers Bengaluru. In IPL 2026, however, they finished fifth despite making a strong start to the season. The arrival of Shreyas Iyer as captain and Ponting as head coach has brought a major change in PBKS’ fortunes over the last two seasons. After finishing runners-up in 2014, PBKS failed to finish higher than fifth for the next 10 seasons, however, the Iyer-Ponting combination helped the team top the points table last season. Also Read - ‘You earned that love’: Messi’s wife shares heartfelt message as football icon bids farewell to international stage Ponting had joined the franchise after leaving Delhi Capitals, while Iyer became PBKS’ most expensive signing after they paid INR 26.75 crore for him at the mega auction, making him the second-most expensive player overall at the time. Iyer’s strong performances with the bat and his leadership also helped him earn the India T20I captaincy earlier this year. Ponting, meanwhile, also works as the head coach of Major League Cricket side Washington Freedom and is involved in broadcasting.

James Hopes and Brad Haddin have stepped down as Punjab Kings’ bowling and fielding coaches, respectively. Hopes will now coach Queensland and Brisbane Heat, while Haddin takes charge of New South Wales.

IPL: James Hopes, Brad Haddin leave Punjab Kings coaching staff

NEW DELHI: SA20 – South Africa's premier franchise-based T20 tournament – is moving into its fifth season. Over the last four years, it has established itself as one of the leading T20 tournaments in the world, with players from across the globe participating in it. The tournament has six franchises – Durban's Super Giants, Joburg Super Kings, MI Cape Town, Paarl Royals, Pretoria Capitals, and Sunrisers Eastern Cape – owned by IPL franchises of the same name. Graeme Smith, former SA skipper and the SA20 commissioner, spoke to WION in a conversation after the season 5 auction about how the league became a sustainable product and how it has helped South African cricket.<h2>How IPL franchises helped SA20 become sustainable&nbsp;</h2>"There were always going to be a couple of key fundamentals up front that you needed to get right. Cricket South Africa took the decision to build outside and brought in a big broadcaster as a shareholder, which really helped give us the base to build the business model of the league and go to market," said Smith in an interaction facilitated by SA20 post-Season 5 Auction.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/they-re-paid-to-do-says-head-about-hayden-s-pile-of-medicocrity-comment-on-australia-squad-for-sa-tests-1791430685541">'They’re paid to do,' says Head about Hayden's comment on AUS squad for SA Tests</a>"We were also fortunate to have met over 40 different potential investors at the time. But I think getting the six IPL franchises in the end that we do have, has provided a real big base for us to be able to build the league.The way they invest in players, the quality that they bring, the way they look after the players and the teams as well, I think it's brought a real professionalism to our game," he noted on the role of IPL franchises in the SA20.<h2>How SA20 helped South African cricket</h2>South Africa reached the semi-finals of the 2023 ODI World Cup, final of the 2024 T20 World Cup, and semi-finals of the 2026 T20 World Cup as well. They also won the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle title for their first ICC trophy in over two decades. Smith credits the rise of Proteas cricket to SA20 and said: "We've been able to build a really high performing operational team, and delivering the tournament at scale in a really efficient way every year has really provided the base for our cricketers. And that's what we wanted to do.""Now we get to put 60 or 70 of South Africa's top talent on the stage every year, which I think really was the major motivation. Everyone talks about the finances, but I think seeing South African cricket strong for all of us that have played and been a part of the system for a very long time, is what we wanted."There was a period where you would look at it and you were pretty nervous about where South African cricket was going to go. So in five years, to see our national team performing well, talent coming through, and that the system is relatively solid, I think is probably the biggest one out of all of it."

Former Proteas captain Graeme Smith highlighted how SA20's IPL franchise backing and solid business model transformed South African cricket, nurturing top talent and driving recent international success.

NEW DELHI: SA20 – South Africa's premier franchise-based T20 tournament – is moving into its fifth season. Over the last four years, it has established itself as one of the leading T20 tournaments in the world, with players from across the globe participating in it. The tournament has six franchises – Durban's Super Giants, Joburg Super Kings, MI Cape Town, Paarl Royals, Pretoria Capitals, and Sunrisers Eastern Cape – owned by IPL franchises of the same name. Graeme Smith, former SA skipper and the SA20 commissioner, spoke to WION in a conversation after the season 5 auction about how the league became a sustainable product and how it has helped South African cricket. How IPL franchises helped SA20 become sustainable "There were always going to be a couple of key fundamentals up front that you needed to get right. Cricket South Africa took the decision to build outside and brought in a big broadcaster as a shareholder, which really helped give us the base to build the business model of the league and go to market," said Smith in an interaction facilitated by SA20 post-Season 5 Auction. Also Read - 'They’re paid to do,' says Head about Hayden's comment on AUS squad for SA Tests "We were also fortunate to have met over 40 different potential investors at the time. But I think getting the six IPL franchises in the end that we do have, has provided a real big base for us to be able to build the league. The way they invest in players, the quality that they bring, the way they look after the players and the teams as well, I think it's brought a real professionalism to our game," he noted on the role of IPL franchises in the SA20. How SA20 helped South African cricket South Africa reached the semi-finals of the 2023 ODI World Cup, final of the 2024 T20 World Cup, and semi-finals of the 2026 T20 World Cup as well. They also won the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle title for their first ICC trophy in over two decades. Smith credits the rise of Proteas cricket to SA20 and said: "We've been able to build a really high performing operational team, and delivering the tournament at scale in a really efficient way every year has really provided the base for our cricketers. And that's what we wanted to do." "Now we get to put 60 or 70 of South Africa's top talent on the stage every year, which I think really was the major motivation. Everyone talks about the finances, but I think seeing South African cricket strong for all of us that have played and been a part of the system for a very long time, is what we wanted. "There was a period where you would look at it and you were pretty nervous about where South African cricket was going to go. So in five years, to see our national team performing well, talent coming through, and that the system is relatively solid, I think is probably the biggest one out of all of it."

Former Proteas captain Graeme Smith highlighted how SA20's IPL franchise backing and solid business model transformed South African cricket, nurturing top talent and driving recent international success.

‘IPL franchises provided a big base’: SA20 commissioner Graeme Smith on league’s success

Antonela Roccuzzo, wife of football legend Lionel Messi, penned an emotional message for her husband after he ended his international career in Buenos Aires. Messi signed off in memorable fashion, scoring one goal and providing two assists in Argentina’s 3-0 win over Benin in his farewell match at home on Tuesday.&nbsp;After the game, Roccuzzo shared an emotional post on Instagram, praising Messi for the love and respect he received during his international farewell and said that he earned it through his personality, humility, commitment and dedication to Argentina. She also called it a privilege to have been part of his journey and thanked him for everything he had taught them.&nbsp;“There are nights that explain a whole life. And last night was one of those. How beautiful it was to see you surrounded by so much love, so many people thanking you and giving back everything you gave them for so many years. You earned that love. You built it with your personality, your humility, your commitment, and the heart you always gave for this jersey. What a privilege to have walked this path by your side and what a thrill to see you close such a huge chapter of your life in this way. Thank you for teaching us so much! We love you! @leomessi. Always with you,” she said.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-thanks-ajit-agarkar-for-some-truly-special-moments-as-india-men-s-chief-selector-1791443263984">BCCI thanks Ajit Agarkar for 'some truly special moments' as India men's chief selector</a>&nbsp;Messi’s farewell match and the events leading up to it were filled with emotional moments celebrating his remarkable legacy. His teammates, football legends and fans paid tribute to him, while Messi himself also showed his emotions during the occasion.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ronaldo-sends-a-hug-after-messi-says-he-misses-wearing-the-blue-and-white-1791434947877">Ronaldo sends 'a hug' after Messi says he misses 'wearing the blue and white'</a>&nbsp;From receiving an honorary doctorate from the University of Buenos Aires to being honoured with a special drone show featuring key moments from his career, Messi received a farewell worthy of a football icon in a country where the sport holds a special place.&nbsp;Alongside Diego Maradona, Messi remains one of Argentina’s most admired footballers. He played a key role in helping the country win major titles and achieve several milestones during his international career.&nbsp;With inputs from agencies

Lionel Messi’s wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, paid an emotional tribute to the Argentina legend following his international farewell, praising his humility, dedication and unforgettable legacy.

Antonela Roccuzzo, wife of football legend Lionel Messi, penned an emotional message for her husband after he ended his international career in Buenos Aires. Messi signed off in memorable fashion, scoring one goal and providing two assists in Argentina’s 3-0 win over Benin in his farewell match at home on Tuesday. After the game, Roccuzzo shared an emotional post on Instagram, praising Messi for the love and respect he received during his international farewell and said that he earned it through his personality, humility, commitment and dedication to Argentina. She also called it a privilege to have been part of his journey and thanked him for everything he had taught them. “There are nights that explain a whole life. And last night was one of those. How beautiful it was to see you surrounded by so much love, so many people thanking you and giving back everything you gave them for so many years. You earned that love. You built it with your personality, your humility, your commitment, and the heart you always gave for this jersey. What a privilege to have walked this path by your side and what a thrill to see you close such a huge chapter of your life in this way. Thank you for teaching us so much! We love you! @leomessi. Always with you,” she said. Also Read - BCCI thanks Ajit Agarkar for 'some truly special moments' as India men's chief selector Messi’s farewell match and the events leading up to it were filled with emotional moments celebrating his remarkable legacy. His teammates, football legends and fans paid tribute to him, while Messi himself also showed his emotions during the occasion. Also Read - Ronaldo sends 'a hug' after Messi says he misses 'wearing the blue and white' From receiving an honorary doctorate from the University of Buenos Aires to being honoured with a special drone show featuring key moments from his career, Messi received a farewell worthy of a football icon in a country where the sport holds a special place. Alongside Diego Maradona, Messi remains one of Argentina’s most admired footballers. He played a key role in helping the country win major titles and achieve several milestones during his international career. With inputs from agencies

Lionel Messi’s wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, paid an emotional tribute to the Argentina legend following his international farewell, praising his humility, dedication and unforgettable legacy.

‘You earned that love’: Messi’s wife shares heartfelt message as football icon bids farewell to international stage

Ajit Agarkar's tenure with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has ended, and the board has thanked him for his service. Agarkar spent three years and three months in the position, and in that period, India won three ICC trophies, including two back-to-back T20 World Cups. In his tenure, the Indian team saw a transition in the T20I and Test teams, with senior players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli (Test and T20I), Ravi Ashwin (all formats), Cheteshwar Pujara (all formats), and Ravindra Jadeja (T20Is) retiring.<h2>BCCI thanks Agarkar for service as chief selector</h2>BCCI, in a social media post, recalled the trophies won by India during Agarkar's tenure as the chief selector and wrote: "A tenure marked by some truly special moments for Indian cricket – three ICC trophies, two Asia Cup titles and back-to-back Asian Games Gold medals, along with a run to the 2023 ODI World Cup final."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/they-re-paid-to-do-says-head-about-hayden-s-pile-of-medicocrity-comment-on-australia-squad-for-sa-tests-1791430685541">'They’re paid to do,' says Head about Hayden's comment on AUS squad for SA Tests</a>"Thank you, Mr Ajit Agarkar for your commitment, conviction and contribution as Chairman of the Men’s Selection Committee. Wishing you the very best for the journey ahead."

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">A tenure marked by some truly special moments for Indian cricket — three ICC trophies, two Asia Cup titles and back-to-back Asian Games Gold medals, along with a run to the 2023 ODI World Cup final.

Thank you, Mr Ajit Agarkar @imAagarkar, for your commitment, conviction and contribution as Chairman of the Men’s Selection Committee.

Wishing you the very best for the journey ahead.&mdash; BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://x.com/BCCI/status/2107817308890730579?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 7, 2026</a></blockquote>
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Agarkar's tenure, however, was marked by some controversies as well, with questions over Rohit and Kohli's future in ODIs as well as their possible participation in ODI World Cup 2027. Veteran pacer Mohammed Shami was also constantly overlooked by the Agarkar-led selection committee despite performing in domestic tournaments.The BCCI announced India's squad for the New Zealand series on Tuesday (Oct 6), with the selection meeting chaired by Pragyan Ojha, and it handed a comeback to another veteran pacer, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, after a four-year hiatus.The BCCI wanted to extend Agarkar's tenure, but the former player declined, and now the board has invited applications for the post.India's Squad for New Zealand T20Is: Shreyas Iyer (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Ishan Kishan, Tilak Varma, Axar Patel, Shivam Dube, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Naman Dhir, Prince Yadav, Mayank Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Varun Chakravarthy, and Kuldeep Yadav

Ajit Agarkar ended his four-year tenure as BCCI chief selector after declining an extension. India won three ICC trophies under him, and Pragyan Ojha chaired the selection for the NZ series.

Ajit Agarkar's tenure with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has ended, and the board has thanked him for his service. Agarkar spent three years and three months in the position, and in that period, India won three ICC trophies, including two back-to-back T20 World Cups. In his tenure, the Indian team saw a transition in the T20I and Test teams, with senior players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli (Test and T20I), Ravi Ashwin (all formats), Cheteshwar Pujara (all formats), and Ravindra Jadeja (T20Is) retiring. BCCI thanks Agarkar for service as chief selector BCCI, in a social media post, recalled the trophies won by India during Agarkar's tenure as the chief selector and wrote: "A tenure marked by some truly special moments for Indian cricket – three ICC trophies, two Asia Cup titles and back-to-back Asian Games Gold medals, along with a run to the 2023 ODI World Cup final." Also Read - 'They’re paid to do,' says Head about Hayden's comment on AUS squad for SA Tests "Thank you, Mr Ajit Agarkar for your commitment, conviction and contribution as Chairman of the Men’s Selection Committee. Wishing you the very best for the journey ahead."

Ajit Agarkar ended his four-year tenure as BCCI chief selector after declining an extension. India won three ICC trophies under him, and Pragyan Ojha chaired the selection for the NZ series.

BCCI thanks Ajit Agarkar for 'some truly special moments' as India men's chief selector

NEW DELHI: It has been only a day since Lionel Messi stopped playing for Argentina, and it is already getting to him. As the talismanic footballer misses wearing the light blue and white jersey, his greatest rival, Cristiano Ronaldo, has sent ‘a hug’ to him. Ronaldo vs. Messi defined the last two decades of football across the world, with both players going on to play a record-tying six FIFA World Cups, the last of which came earlier this year in 2026. Messi played his last game for Argentina on Tuesday (Oct 6) against Benin in Buenos Aires in front of home fans.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ronaldo-explains-leaving-portugal-camp-says-would-be-available-after-whatever-suspension-is-imposed-1791347466359">Ronaldo tells why he left team camp, says would be available post 'suspension</a><h2>Ronaldo sends Messi a hug as Argentine misses blue and white jersey</h2>Messi was emotional after the whistle blew against Benin and gave a heartfelt speech. The footballer then took to Instagram to share how he was feeling and wrote: "Yesterday was my last game and I already miss wearing the blue and white. I know I'm making the right decision. It was an incredible journey, full of joys and also some sadness, but I'm clear that every step I took was worth it."

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"And I have many things left to say. It's impossible for me to express everything I feel in words or in a post. This journey would have been impossible without my family, who were always by my side and supported me, especially in difficult moments when I needed it the most," he added.Reacting to his post, Ronaldo wrote: "Leo, so many years defending your country and a history that will last forever. All my respect for what you have achieved with Argentina. A hug."<h2>Messi vs Ronaldo in football</h2>Both Messi and Ronaldo are the highest goal scorers for their countries and occupy the top two places in the world. Messi finished his career with 126 goals in 208 matches and sits just behind Ronaldo in the overall tally, who has 146 goals in 234 matches. Ronaldo, however, never won a FIFA World Cup, while Messi did so in 2022. As for continental trophies, Ronaldo helped Portugal win Euro 2016, while Messi won the Copa America with Argentina in 2021 and 2024.

Lionel Messi retired from Argentina after playing Benin, admitting he already misses the jersey. Cristiano Ronaldo sent respect and a hug, honoring their rival history across six World Cup

NEW DELHI: It has been only a day since Lionel Messi stopped playing for Argentina, and it is already getting to him. As the talismanic footballer misses wearing the light blue and white jersey, his greatest rival, Cristiano Ronaldo, has sent ‘a hug’ to him. Ronaldo vs. Messi defined the last two decades of football across the world, with both players going on to play a record-tying six FIFA World Cups, the last of which came earlier this year in 2026. Messi played his last game for Argentina on Tuesday (Oct 6) against Benin in Buenos Aires in front of home fans. Also Read - Ronaldo tells why he left team camp, says would be available post 'suspension Ronaldo sends Messi a hug as Argentine misses blue and white jersey Messi was emotional after the whistle blew against Benin and gave a heartfelt speech. The footballer then took to Instagram to share how he was feeling and wrote: "Yesterday was my last game and I already miss wearing the blue and white. I know I'm making the right decision. It was an incredible journey, full of joys and also some sadness, but I'm clear that every step I took was worth it."

Lionel Messi retired from Argentina after playing Benin, admitting he already misses the jersey. Cristiano Ronaldo sent respect and a hug, honoring their rival history across six World Cup

Ronaldo sends 'a hug' after Messi says he misses 'wearing the blue and white'

NEW DELHI: Australia batter Travis Head has clapped back at former opener Matthew Hayden indirectly for his recent comments on the selection of the Australian team for the South Africa Test tour. Australia begins a three-Test tour against South Africa on Friday (Oct 9) in Durban. Hayden's comments came after the recall of 34-year-old Nic Maddinson to the Australian side after a long gap of 10 years. Aussie selectors decided to hand Maddinson a comeback after injuries to Josh Inglis and Cameron Green. Hayden, on a podcast, had called the team selection "the greatest pile of mediocrity that we’ve seen in a generation of cricket."<h2>Head claps back at criticism of Aussie team selection</h2>Head was at the press conference in Durban before the first Test when he said to reporters about the criticism from recent players: "I think it’s unfairly judged a fair bit from a group of past players, pretty much that put the bullet through a lot of players, which I think is unfair. But that’s what they’re paid to do. Some of them need a job, so they go after us, and that’s totally fine."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shreyas-iyer-maiden-t20i-century-lucknow-india-vs-west-indies-1791383127104">‘Dreams do come true’: Iyer reflects on match-winning 102* vs WI in T20I opener</a>Head, however, brushed aside any impact of Hayden's comments on the selected squad and said: "This group is strong enough to deal with those sorts of things. That’s how it is. It’s unfortunate sometimes to have some of that feedback from a generation of players that we have huge respect for, but that’s the caper."<h2>WTC 2025-27 Final place at stake</h2>Australia and South Africa, the finalists of the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle, will be vying to make their case strong enough for a place in the WTC 2025-27 final. South Africa, the defending WTC champions, is currently placed second on the WTC 2025-27 points table with 75 percent, while Australia, the two-time consecutive finalists and WTC 2021-23 winners, is on top with 80 percent points.A win in the three-match series by either team will go a long way toward securing a place in the ongoing WTC cycle final for both contenders.

Travis Head clapped back at Matthew Hayden for calling Australia's Test squad "a pile of mediocrity" following Nic Maddinson's recall. Both sides eye a WTC final spot in the Durban series.

NEW DELHI: Australia batter Travis Head has clapped back at former opener Matthew Hayden indirectly for his recent comments on the selection of the Australian team for the South Africa Test tour. Australia begins a three-Test tour against South Africa on Friday (Oct 9) in Durban. Hayden's comments came after the recall of 34-year-old Nic Maddinson to the Australian side after a long gap of 10 years. Aussie selectors decided to hand Maddinson a comeback after injuries to Josh Inglis and Cameron Green. Hayden, on a podcast, had called the team selection "the greatest pile of mediocrity that we’ve seen in a generation of cricket." Head claps back at criticism of Aussie team selection Head was at the press conference in Durban before the first Test when he said to reporters about the criticism from recent players: "I think it’s unfairly judged a fair bit from a group of past players, pretty much that put the bullet through a lot of players, which I think is unfair. But that’s what they’re paid to do. Some of them need a job, so they go after us, and that’s totally fine." Also Read - ‘Dreams do come true’: Iyer reflects on match-winning 102* vs WI in T20I opener Head, however, brushed aside any impact of Hayden's comments on the selected squad and said: "This group is strong enough to deal with those sorts of things. That’s how it is. It’s unfortunate sometimes to have some of that feedback from a generation of players that we have huge respect for, but that’s the caper." WTC 2025-27 Final place at stake Australia and South Africa, the finalists of the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle, will be vying to make their case strong enough for a place in the WTC 2025-27 final. South Africa, the defending WTC champions, is currently placed second on the WTC 2025-27 points table with 75 percent, while Australia, the two-time consecutive finalists and WTC 2021-23 winners, is on top with 80 percent points. A win in the three-match series by either team will go a long way toward securing a place in the ongoing WTC cycle final for both contenders.

Travis Head clapped back at Matthew Hayden for calling Australia's Test squad "a pile of mediocrity" following Nic Maddinson's recall. Both sides eye a WTC final spot in the Test series.

'They’re paid to do,' says Head about Hayden's 'pile of mediocrity' comment on Australia squad for SA Tests

Jon Rahm is quitting LIV Golf due to "unacceptable" terms, the star's lawyer said on Wednesday, dealing a significant blow to the divisive breakaway tour as it attempts to relaunch itself after declaring bankruptcy. Along with Bryson DeChambeau, double major winner and former world number one Rahm was arguably the most prominent golfer to defect from the PGA Tour and join the free-spending Saudi-backed league. But LIV filed for bankruptcy protection last month after its deep-pocketed Middle Eastern backers pulled the plug.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-allowed-dr-congo-into-world-cup-2026-despite-ineligible-player-probe-reports-reveal-1791364320545">FIFA allowed DR Congo into WC 2026 despite ineligible player probe, reports say</a>The tour is trying to relaunch next year with new investors as "LIV 2.0". Retaining popular stars like Rahm was widely seen as critical to its prospects."Mr. Rahm has independently reviewed the proposed terms of LIV 2.0 as the parties have been referring to it, and has determined that those terms are unacceptable as to him, and he will not be participating going forward in LIV 2.0," his lawyer John Beck told a U.S. Bankruptcy Court of New Jersey hearing on Wednesday.Beck said that "advanced discussions for a consensual separation agreement of Mr. Rahm and LIV" are ongoing, according to a courtroom audio recording verified by AFP.That agreement is expected to be presented before the court next month, he added."If the parties, for whatever reason, are unable to reach a consensual separation agreement, Mr. Rahm intends to press his objection" through legal channels, said Beck.LIV Golf did not respond to an AFP request for a comment.Launched in 2022, LIV Golf's emergence led to bitter divisions throughout the sport as several of golf's top names left the PGA Tour after signing big-money deals.Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) poured an estimated $5 billion into the tour, before abruptly pulling the plug earlier this year.Documents from bankruptcy filings show that LIV owes between $500 million and $1 billion in estimated liabilities to at least 1,000 creditors, including star players.Rahm, DeChambeau and fellow golfer Dustin Johnson hold the largest unsecured claims against the tour, totaling more than $5 million each in immediate past-due payments, per the bankruptcy filing.Still, new lead investor BC Partners Credit has pledged an initial funding commitment of a potential $300 million to help LIV relaunch in 2027.Tour officials have outlined a shorter schedule and reduced prize money with tournaments across five continents, in locations including Australia, South Africa, Mexico, England, Hong Kong and the US.Representatives for Rahm did not respond to an AFP request for a comment on the 31-year-old's future plans.Widespread reports have recently linked several LIV stars with potential returns to the US-based PGA Tour.The PGA Tour has said that it currently has no plans to offer LIV players a pathway back.Rahm continues to play on the DP World (European) Tour, though he announced on Tuesday that he would skip the upcoming Spanish Open to attend the birth of his fourth child.&nbsp;

The tour is trying to relaunch next year with new investors as "LIV 2.0". Retaining popular stars like Rahm was widely seen as critical to its prospects.

Jon Rahm is quitting LIV Golf due to "unacceptable" terms, the star's lawyer said on Wednesday, dealing a significant blow to the divisive breakaway tour as it attempts to relaunch itself after declaring bankruptcy. Along with Bryson DeChambeau, double major winner and former world number one Rahm was arguably the most prominent golfer to defect from the PGA Tour and join the free-spending Saudi-backed league. But LIV filed for bankruptcy protection last month after its deep-pocketed Middle Eastern backers pulled the plug. Also Read - FIFA allowed DR Congo into WC 2026 despite ineligible player probe, reports say The tour is trying to relaunch next year with new investors as "LIV 2.0". Retaining popular stars like Rahm was widely seen as critical to its prospects. "Mr. Rahm has independently reviewed the proposed terms of LIV 2.0 as the parties have been referring to it, and has determined that those terms are unacceptable as to him, and he will not be participating going forward in LIV 2.0," his lawyer John Beck told a U.S. Bankruptcy Court of New Jersey hearing on Wednesday. Beck said that "advanced discussions for a consensual separation agreement of Mr. Rahm and LIV" are ongoing, according to a courtroom audio recording verified by AFP. That agreement is expected to be presented before the court next month, he added. "If the parties, for whatever reason, are unable to reach a consensual separation agreement, Mr. Rahm intends to press his objection" through legal channels, said Beck. LIV Golf did not respond to an AFP request for a comment. Launched in 2022, LIV Golf's emergence led to bitter divisions throughout the sport as several of golf's top names left the PGA Tour after signing big-money deals. Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) poured an estimated $5 billion into the tour, before abruptly pulling the plug earlier this year. Documents from bankruptcy filings show that LIV owes between $500 million and $1 billion in estimated liabilities to at least 1,000 creditors, including star players. Rahm, DeChambeau and fellow golfer Dustin Johnson hold the largest unsecured claims against the tour, totaling more than $5 million each in immediate past-due payments, per the bankruptcy filing. Still, new lead investor BC Partners Credit has pledged an initial funding commitment of a potential $300 million to help LIV relaunch in 2027. Tour officials have outlined a shorter schedule and reduced prize money with tournaments across five continents, in locations including Australia, South Africa, Mexico, England, Hong Kong and the US. Representatives for Rahm did not respond to an AFP request for a comment on the 31-year-old's future plans. Widespread reports have recently linked several LIV stars with potential returns to the US-based PGA Tour. The PGA Tour has said that it currently has no plans to offer LIV players a pathway back. Rahm continues to play on the DP World (European) Tour, though he announced on Tuesday that he would skip the upcoming Spanish Open to attend the birth of his fourth child.

The tour is trying to relaunch next year with new investors as "LIV 2.0". Retaining popular stars like Rahm was widely seen as critical to its prospects.

Jon Rahm quits LIV Golf as breakaway tour attempts to relaunch itself

The Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad received a bomb threat midway through the Under-19 second red-ball game between India and Australia. The stadium authorities received the threat via email at 11 AM IST, when the two teams were in action, before the match concluded at around 11:15 AM IST.&nbsp;According to several reports, a Cyber Cell team immediately arrived at the venue to investigate the matter. All squad players, however, were not initially informed about the development, but the two teams later left the stadium at around 1 PM IST following necessary security protocols. The local police later confirmed that the email was a hoax.<h3>GCA Informs Police of Bomb Threat</h3>The secretary of the Gujarat Cricket Association (GCA), Anil Patel, admitted to informing police at the drop of a hat upon receiving the bomb threat.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashwin-bhuvneshwar-kumar-jasprit-bumrah-2027-odi-world-cup-plan-1791384774643">Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jasprit Bumrah in India’s World Cup plans? Ashwin weighs in</a>&nbsp;“We informed the local police as soon as we received the email. This has happened a couple of times earlier as well, including during the World Cup 2023 and IPL,” Patel said, as quoted by Sportstar.<h3>Diljit Dosanjh Concert Mentioned in Threats</h3>The emails also mentioned Punjabi singer Diljit Dosanjh, warning people against attending the singer’s concert scheduled for November 21 at the Narendra Modi Stadium. There were pro-Khalistan messages in the emails, along with reference to Diljit’s November 1 performance at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. The stadium authorities deployed security personnel and bomb detection teams at the educational institutions that also received bomb threats.&nbsp;The security arrived shortly after India U-19 completed a comprehensive 10-wicket win against Australia in the second Youth Test. Debutant Tanmay Baloda led India with a stunning bowling performance, picking up 14 wickets across two innings.&nbsp;No security emergency was required following the bomb threats, with both sets of players leaving the venue safely, in accordance with the necessary protocols.

A hoax bomb threat targeted Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium during the India vs Australia U-19 Youth Test. Security was deployed, referencing Diljit Dosanjh's concert. Both teams evacuated safely after India secured a 10-wicket victory.

The Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad received a bomb threat midway through the Under-19 second red-ball game between India and Australia. The stadium authorities received the threat via email at 11 AM IST, when the two teams were in action, before the match concluded at around 11:15 AM IST. According to several reports, a Cyber Cell team immediately arrived at the venue to investigate the matter. All squad players, however, were not initially informed about the development, but the two teams later left the stadium at around 1 PM IST following necessary security protocols. The local police later confirmed that the email was a hoax. GCA Informs Police of Bomb Threat The secretary of the Gujarat Cricket Association (GCA), Anil Patel, admitted to informing police at the drop of a hat upon receiving the bomb threat. Also read| Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jasprit Bumrah in India’s World Cup plans? Ashwin weighs in “We informed the local police as soon as we received the email. This has happened a couple of times earlier as well, including during the World Cup 2023 and IPL,” Patel said, as quoted by Sportstar. Diljit Dosanjh Concert Mentioned in Threats The emails also mentioned Punjabi singer Diljit Dosanjh, warning people against attending the singer’s concert scheduled for November 21 at the Narendra Modi Stadium. There were pro-Khalistan messages in the emails, along with reference to Diljit’s November 1 performance at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. The stadium authorities deployed security personnel and bomb detection teams at the educational institutions that also received bomb threats. The security arrived shortly after India U-19 completed a comprehensive 10-wicket win against Australia in the second Youth Test. Debutant Tanmay Baloda led India with a stunning bowling performance, picking up 14 wickets across two innings. No security emergency was required following the bomb threats, with both sets of players leaving the venue safely, in accordance with the necessary protocols.

A hoax bomb threat targeted Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium during the India vs Australia U-19 Youth Test. Security was deployed, referencing Diljit Dosanjh's concert. Both teams evacuated safely after India secured a 10-wicket victory.

Narendra Modi Stadium bomb threat declared hoax; India & Australia U19 squads safe

Former Indian ace spinner Ravichandran Ashwin hopes for a dream pairing of Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jasprit Bumrah at the 2027 ODI World Cup. Ashwin said that if Bhuvneshwar impresses all on his return to the T20I side after nearly four years, he could well be on that flight to Africa, bowling the first over for India. Social media began buzzing with nostalgia after the Pragyan Ojha-led selection committee picked up the 36-year-old seamer for five T20Is against New Zealand, starting October 22.&nbsp;South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia will co-host the 50-over World Cup, which starts on October 2, 2027.&nbsp;“He is going to New Zealand now. I am telling you, if he does well, everyone will immediately say, just take him for the ODI team as well. The selectors will be watching very closely.&nbsp;“If he swings the ball and shows decent fitness, nobody can stop Jasprit Bumrah and Bhuvneshwar Kumar from sitting together on that flight to the World Cup, with Bhuvneshwar bowling the first ball of the World Cup,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bhuvneshwar-kumar-recalled-india-t20i-squad-new-zealand-jurel-captain-india-a-1791303593439">Bhuvneshwar Kumar recalled for New Zealand T20Is after 4 years; Dhruv Jurel to lead India ‘A’</a>&nbsp;Reflecting on Bhuvneshwar’s skillset and multi-format capability, Ashwin added that injuries alone hindered the Meerut pacer from reaching even greater heights for the national side.&nbsp;“I am very excited and happy for Bhuvneshwar Kumar because he is a very unassuming guy. And yes, I am once again putting my neck on the line to say this: if he had worked a little harder, if the timing had been right and if he had avoided those injuries, with the skill set he possesses, he could have been a king for India across all formats,” Ashwin said.&nbsp;“Do you want swing? He has swing. If you want it to move one way, he can do that. If you want it to move both ways, he can do that too. And then he has decent pace,” he added.<h3>India Squad for New Zealand T20Is –</h3>Shreyas Iyer (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Ishan Kishan, Tilak Varma, Axar Patel, Shivam Dube, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Naman Dhir, Prince Yadav, Mayank Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Varun Chakravarthy and Kuldeep Yadav

R Ashwin believes a strong comeback in New Zealand could see Bhuvneshwar Kumar partner Jasprit Bumrah for India at the 2027 ODI World Cup.

Former Indian ace spinner Ravichandran Ashwin hopes for a dream pairing of Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jasprit Bumrah at the 2027 ODI World Cup. Ashwin said that if Bhuvneshwar impresses all on his return to the T20I side after nearly four years, he could well be on that flight to Africa, bowling the first over for India. Social media began buzzing with nostalgia after the Pragyan Ojha-led selection committee picked up the 36-year-old seamer for five T20Is against New Zealand, starting October 22. South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia will co-host the 50-over World Cup, which starts on October 2, 2027. “He is going to New Zealand now. I am telling you, if he does well, everyone will immediately say, just take him for the ODI team as well. The selectors will be watching very closely. “If he swings the ball and shows decent fitness, nobody can stop Jasprit Bumrah and Bhuvneshwar Kumar from sitting together on that flight to the World Cup, with Bhuvneshwar bowling the first ball of the World Cup,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel. Also read| Bhuvneshwar Kumar recalled for New Zealand T20Is after 4 years; Dhruv Jurel to lead India ‘A’ Reflecting on Bhuvneshwar’s skillset and multi-format capability, Ashwin added that injuries alone hindered the Meerut pacer from reaching even greater heights for the national side. “I am very excited and happy for Bhuvneshwar Kumar because he is a very unassuming guy. And yes, I am once again putting my neck on the line to say this: if he had worked a little harder, if the timing had been right and if he had avoided those injuries, with the skill set he possesses, he could have been a king for India across all formats,” Ashwin said. “Do you want swing? He has swing. If you want it to move one way, he can do that. If you want it to move both ways, he can do that too. And then he has decent pace,” he added. India Squad for New Zealand T20Is – Shreyas Iyer (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Ishan Kishan, Tilak Varma, Axar Patel, Shivam Dube, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Naman Dhir, Prince Yadav, Mayank Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Varun Chakravarthy and Kuldeep Yadav

R Ashwin believes a strong comeback in New Zealand could see Bhuvneshwar Kumar partner Jasprit Bumrah for India at the 2027 ODI World Cup.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jasprit Bumrah in India’s World Cup plans? Ashwin weighs in

Shreyas Iyer loves playing at the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow, having scored 335 T20 runs at a strike rate of 200.59, including two hundreds, one of which came on Tuesday night against the West Indies in the first T20I. Three days after helping the men’s team defend its Asian Games gold medal against arch-rivals Pakistan in Japan, an exhausted Iyer took on the West Indian attack to score his maiden hundred in this format. The right-hander scored an unbeaten 102 off 43 balls to see his team home with eight wickets remaining.&nbsp;Calling his hundred exultant, Iyer revealed he dreamt about scoring his first T20I century, and the moment came in the first game of the five-match series. Speaking to the broadcaster after the match, Iyer said, "Definitely exultant - that's the word I would use today. Honestly speaking, I was actually thinking about getting my first [T20I] century, and it came true. So I definitely want to say that dreams do come true."&nbsp;"After that exhausting travel, I didn't even realise where I was, to be honest," Iyer continued. "But I adapted quickly to the wicket, to the conditions, and I think bowling first helped us a lot. We just didn't look at it [the travel] as an excuse. We wanted to come and play as any other cricketer would."&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shreyas-iyer-shubman-gill-icc-rankings-surge-india-vs-west-indies-1791377301166">ICC Rankings: Shreyas Iyer breaks into top 10 after maiden T20I hundred in Lucknow</a>&nbsp;Considering that India’s T20I squad didn’t have enough time to train for the West Indies T20I, top-ranked T20I batter Ishan Kishan reflected on the quick turnaround, saying, "Once we step in the field, once you wear the jersey, you have to give your all. Some days you won't be feeling so good, but it's our job to just give 100% if you're there."&nbsp;Meanwhile, India’s already-cramped schedule continues to get tighter with the remaining four T20Is scheduled in Ranchi (October 9), Indore (October 11), Hyderabad (October 14) and Bengaluru (October 17).&nbsp;Shreyas Iyer-led India T20I side will then travel to New Zealand for the five-match T20I series starting October 22. The BCCI men’s selection committee also named the 16-man squad, recalling swing king Bhuvneshwar Kumar and resting premier quick Jasprit Bumrah.

Shreyas Iyer smashed a 43-ball 102* against West Indies in Lucknow right after returning from the Asian Games, guiding India to an 8-wicket win in the 1st T20I.

Shreyas Iyer loves playing at the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow, having scored 335 T20 runs at a strike rate of 200.59, including two hundreds, one of which came on Tuesday night against the West Indies in the first T20I. Three days after helping the men’s team defend its Asian Games gold medal against arch-rivals Pakistan in Japan, an exhausted Iyer took on the West Indian attack to score his maiden hundred in this format. The right-hander scored an unbeaten 102 off 43 balls to see his team home with eight wickets remaining. Calling his hundred exultant, Iyer revealed he dreamt about scoring his first T20I century, and the moment came in the first game of the five-match series. Speaking to the broadcaster after the match, Iyer said, "Definitely exultant - that's the word I would use today. Honestly speaking, I was actually thinking about getting my first [T20I] century, and it came true. So I definitely want to say that dreams do come true." "After that exhausting travel, I didn't even realise where I was, to be honest," Iyer continued. "But I adapted quickly to the wicket, to the conditions, and I think bowling first helped us a lot. We just didn't look at it [the travel] as an excuse. We wanted to come and play as any other cricketer would." Also read| ICC Rankings: Shreyas Iyer breaks into top 10 after maiden T20I hundred in Lucknow Considering that India’s T20I squad didn’t have enough time to train for the West Indies T20I, top-ranked T20I batter Ishan Kishan reflected on the quick turnaround, saying, "Once we step in the field, once you wear the jersey, you have to give your all. Some days you won't be feeling so good, but it's our job to just give 100% if you're there." Meanwhile, India’s already-cramped schedule continues to get tighter with the remaining four T20Is scheduled in Ranchi (October 9), Indore (October 11), Hyderabad (October 14) and Bengaluru (October 17). Shreyas Iyer-led India T20I side will then travel to New Zealand for the five-match T20I series starting October 22. The BCCI men’s selection committee also named the 16-man squad, recalling swing king Bhuvneshwar Kumar and resting premier quick Jasprit Bumrah.

Shreyas Iyer smashed a 43-ball 102* against West Indies in Lucknow right after returning from the Asian Games, guiding India to an 8-wicket win in the 1st T20I.

‘Dreams do come true’: Shreyas Iyer reflects on match-winning 102* against West Indies in T20I opener

Former Indian batter and a World Cup winner Suresh Raina expressed delight over Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s surprise recall to India’s T20I side for the first time in nearly four years. Known for his unplayable swing upfront, Bhuvneshwar last featured in a T20I on the New Zealand tour in November 2022, and could be back in the playing XI in the five-match T20I series starting October 22. Raina and Bhuvneshwar were part of the triumphant 2013 Champions Trophy campaign in England and were teammates at Uttar Pradesh in domestic cricket.&nbsp;Since his white-ball debut against Pakistan during the 2012/13 series in India, Bhuvneshwar grew from an exciting prospect to India’s premier frontline quick for close to a decade. Taking to his X handle, Raina hailed Bhuvneshwar’s comeback to the Indian Team at 36.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bhuvneshwar-kumar-recalled-india-t20i-squad-new-zealand-jurel-captain-india-a-1791303593439">Bhuvneshwar Kumar recalled for New Zealand T20Is after 4 years; Dhruv Jurel to lead India ‘A’</a>&nbsp;“Welcome back, Bhuvi! 🇮🇳💙&nbsp;So happy to see one of India’s finest and most skilful bowlers getting his recognition again. The discipline, hard work and resilience he has shown over the years is truly inspiring.&nbsp;From Uttar Pradesh to the IPL, and now back in the Indian T20 side — this comeback is thoroughly deserved. 👏&nbsp;Keep inspiring,&nbsp;@BhuviOfficial, your journey is a reminder that hard work always finds its way back. 🙌��🇮🇳”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Welcome back, Bhuvi! 🇮🇳💙

So happy to see one of India’s finest and most skillful bowlers getting his recognition again. The discipline, hard work and resilience he has shown over the years is truly inspiring.

From Uttar Pradesh to the IPL, and now back in the Indian T20 side — this comeback is thoroughly deserved. 👏

Keep inspiring, @BhuviOfficial Your journey is a reminder that hard work always finds its way back. 🙌🏽🇮🇳&mdash; Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) <a href="https://x.com/ImRaina/status/2107696432128172126?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 7, 2026</a></blockquote>
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<h3>Bhuvneshwar to lead India’s attack in Bumrah’s absence</h3>Bhuvneshwar’s return to the Indian side wasn’t merely to provide veteran experience with Jasprit Bumrah rested, but was always on the cards following his stellar run in IPL 2026.&nbsp;Representing the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), Bhuvneshwar returned with 28 wickets in the past edition and helped his team defend their IPL crown. Although he finished second among the highest wicket-takers in IPL 2026, the Meerut pacer has won two Purple Caps thus far – awarded to the season’s highest wicket-taker.<h3>India Squad for New Zealand T20Is –</h3>Shreyas Iyer (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Ishan Kishan, Tilak Varma, Axar Patel, Shivam Dube, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Naman Dhir, Prince Yadav, Mayank Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Varun Chakaravarthy and Kuldeep Yadav

Suresh Raina hailed Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s "thoroughly deserved" recall to India’s T20I squad for the New Zealand series after a stellar IPL 2026 campaign with RCB.

Former Indian batter and a World Cup winner Suresh Raina expressed delight over Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s surprise recall to India’s T20I side for the first time in nearly four years. Known for his unplayable swing upfront, Bhuvneshwar last featured in a T20I on the New Zealand tour in November 2022, and could be back in the playing XI in the five-match T20I series starting October 22. Raina and Bhuvneshwar were part of the triumphant 2013 Champions Trophy campaign in England and were teammates at Uttar Pradesh in domestic cricket. Since his white-ball debut against Pakistan during the 2012/13 series in India, Bhuvneshwar grew from an exciting prospect to India’s premier frontline quick for close to a decade. Taking to his X handle, Raina hailed Bhuvneshwar’s comeback to the Indian Team at 36. Also read| Bhuvneshwar Kumar recalled for New Zealand T20Is after 4 years; Dhruv Jurel to lead India ‘A’ “Welcome back, Bhuvi! 🇮🇳💙 So happy to see one of India’s finest and most skilful bowlers getting his recognition again. The discipline, hard work and resilience he has shown over the years is truly inspiring. From Uttar Pradesh to the IPL, and now back in the Indian T20 side — this comeback is thoroughly deserved. 👏 Keep inspiring, @BhuviOfficial, your journey is a reminder that hard work always finds its way back. 🙌��🇮🇳”

Suresh Raina hailed Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s "thoroughly deserved" recall to India’s T20I squad for the New Zealand series after a stellar IPL 2026 campaign with RCB.

‘From UP to IPL to India Side’: Suresh Raina hails Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s recall for NZ T20Is

Indian white-ball captains Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer continue to make headlines following the updated ICC rankings. While Gill consolidates his position as the best ODI batter following his second double hundred (223*) against the West Indies during the Guwahati One-Dayer, Iyer has jumped 18 places to break into the top-10 T20I batters list for the first time in his career. The T20I skipper smashed his maiden hundred in the format in Lucknow on Tuesday (Oct 6), hitting an unbeaten 43-ball 102 to see his team home with eight wickets remaining.&nbsp;Iyer sits in seventh place, third-highest amongst Indian batters after Ishan Kishan (1) and Abhishek Sharma (2). While Abhishek’s quickfire 28-ball 61 during the Asian Games final against Pakistan, followed by 21 (10) three days later in the first T20I, helped him retain his place, Kishan’s ominous touch keeps him at the top of men’s T20I rankings.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gautam-gambhir-tribute-outgoing-chief-selector-ajit-agarkar-1791372701967">‘Team first and team ahead’: India coach Gambhir pens heartfelt wish for chief selector Ajit Agarkar</a>&nbsp;Newly appointed Pakistan T20I captain Sahibzada Farhan is third, followed by the English duo of captain Harry Brook (4) and veteran batter Jos Buttler (5). South Africa’s Dewald Brevis is sixth, with Phil Salt (8), Pathum Nissanka (9) and Tilak Varma (10) the bottom-placed batters in the top-10 T20I rankings for batters.&nbsp;Among those making significant gains is West Indies' Sherfane Rutherford, who scored 56 off 34 balls in the series opener. He climbed 10 places from 47 to 37.&nbsp;Meanwhile, in the bowlers’ rankings, Pakistan’s Abrar Ahmed lost his top spot to Adil Rashid following his mediocre returns in the knockouts of the Asian Games in Japan. While he went wicketless for 29 in the semifinal, Abrar could pick up just one in the gold medal match against India. Abrar’s demotion to number two sees Rashid attain the top spot for the eighth time in his career, more than twice as many as anyone at that position over the years.&nbsp;Indian left-arm spinner Axar Patel has also gained places with his match-winning performances lately. After returning with four wickets in two games during the Asiad, and 2/26 against the West Indies in the first T20I, Axar jumped 16 places to number seven.<h3>Gill is No.1 ODI batter</h3>Gill's 334-run tally in three One-Dayers against the West Indies helped him extend his lead over New Zealand’s Daryl Mitchell, who replaced Kohli at number two. The Kiwi batter slipped to the third position after Kohli hit his record-breaking 55th One-Day hundred in the first match, but returned to the second spot following Kohli’s 29 and 0 in the remaining two matches.&nbsp;Elsewhere, West Indies captain Shai Hope, who scored a match-winning 162 in the final ODI, jumped two places to No. 6, while KL Rahul, whose 129 went in vain, jumped seven spots to 10.

Shreyas Iyer jumped 18 spots to 7th in the latest ICC T20I rankings after his maiden 102*, while Shubman Gill consolidated his No. 1 ODI ranking following a brilliant 223* vs West Indies.

Indian white-ball captains Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer continue to make headlines following the updated ICC rankings. While Gill consolidates his position as the best ODI batter following his second double hundred (223*) against the West Indies during the Guwahati One-Dayer, Iyer has jumped 18 places to break into the top-10 T20I batters list for the first time in his career. The T20I skipper smashed his maiden hundred in the format in Lucknow on Tuesday (Oct 6), hitting an unbeaten 43-ball 102 to see his team home with eight wickets remaining. Iyer sits in seventh place, third-highest amongst Indian batters after Ishan Kishan (1) and Abhishek Sharma (2). While Abhishek’s quickfire 28-ball 61 during the Asian Games final against Pakistan, followed by 21 (10) three days later in the first T20I, helped him retain his place, Kishan’s ominous touch keeps him at the top of men’s T20I rankings. Also read| ‘Team first and team ahead’: India coach Gambhir pens heartfelt wish for chief selector Ajit Agarkar Newly appointed Pakistan T20I captain Sahibzada Farhan is third, followed by the English duo of captain Harry Brook (4) and veteran batter Jos Buttler (5). South Africa’s Dewald Brevis is sixth, with Phil Salt (8), Pathum Nissanka (9) and Tilak Varma (10) the bottom-placed batters in the top-10 T20I rankings for batters. Among those making significant gains is West Indies' Sherfane Rutherford, who scored 56 off 34 balls in the series opener. He climbed 10 places from 47 to 37. Meanwhile, in the bowlers’ rankings, Pakistan’s Abrar Ahmed lost his top spot to Adil Rashid following his mediocre returns in the knockouts of the Asian Games in Japan. While he went wicketless for 29 in the semifinal, Abrar could pick up just one in the gold medal match against India. Abrar’s demotion to number two sees Rashid attain the top spot for the eighth time in his career, more than twice as many as anyone at that position over the years. Indian left-arm spinner Axar Patel has also gained places with his match-winning performances lately. After returning with four wickets in two games during the Asiad, and 2/26 against the West Indies in the first T20I, Axar jumped 16 places to number seven. Gill is No.1 ODI batter Gill's 334-run tally in three One-Dayers against the West Indies helped him extend his lead over New Zealand’s Daryl Mitchell, who replaced Kohli at number two. The Kiwi batter slipped to the third position after Kohli hit his record-breaking 55th One-Day hundred in the first match, but returned to the second spot following Kohli’s 29 and 0 in the remaining two matches. Elsewhere, West Indies captain Shai Hope, who scored a match-winning 162 in the final ODI, jumped two places to No. 6, while KL Rahul, whose 129 went in vain, jumped seven spots to 10.

Shreyas Iyer jumped 18 spots to 7th in the latest ICC T20I rankings after his maiden 102*, while Shubman Gill consolidated his No. 1 ODI ranking following a brilliant 223* vs West Indies.

ICC Rankings: Shreyas Iyer breaks into top 10 after maiden T20I hundred in Lucknow

Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir has penned a heartfelt note for the departing chief selector Ajit Agarkar. The former Indian quick decided against renewing his contract as the chairman of the men’s selection committee, with Pragyan Ojha temporarily taking up the spot. The BCCI has also invited applications for the vacant seat on the selection committee.&nbsp;Agarkar was appointed chief selector in July 2023. He chaired team selections for several ICC tournaments, including the 2023 ODI World Cup, 2024 and 2026 T20 World Cups, the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, and two Asia Cup campaigns, of which India won four multi-team tournaments. The Men in Blue were crowned 2025 Champions Trophy winners in Dubai and clinched both T20 World Cups in the Americas (2024) and the subcontinent (2026). India also won two Asia Cup titles in 2023 and 2025.&nbsp;Gambhir, who replaced the legendary Rahul Dravid as Team India’s head coach in mid-2024, worked closely with Agarkar to help shape India’s future across formats. While India tasted enormous success during this period, winning several series and tournaments, they also endured challenging times, including suffering two series whitewashes at home, all under Agarkar and Gambhir’s tutelage.&nbsp;Taking to his X handle, Gambhir posted a message for his former India teammate, saying, “Dear Ajit Bhai, an absolute honour to work with you. Those 3 ICC trophies are testimony of your conviction: Team first &amp; Team ahead, always..I must say, History will be kinder to you. Thank you for everything. My heartfelt wishes for your future endeavours!!”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Dear Ajit Bhai, an absolute honour to work with you. Those 3 ICC trophies are testimony of your conviction: Team first &amp;amp; Team ahead, always.. I must say, History will be kinder to you. Thank you for everything. My heartfelt wishes for your future endeavours !! https://t.co/gYQN0fea8X&mdash; Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) <a href="https://x.com/GautamGambhir/status/2107710079944605986?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 7, 2026</a></blockquote>
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<h3>Controversies and low points of Agarkar’s tenure</h3>India’s ODI cricket peaked during the home World Cup in 2023, only for Australia to beat India in the final and break a billion hearts. Mohammed Shami, who starred for the Men in Blue in that tournament, picking up 23 wickets in seven matches, was amongst the top names who were phased out of white-ball squads following the Champions Trophy success. Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bhuvneshwar-kumar-recalled-india-t20i-squad-new-zealand-jurel-captain-india-a-1791303593439">returned to the Indian squad for the forthcoming New Zealand T20Is after nearly four years</a> with Ojha leading the selection panel, also never got his turn during Agarkar’s spell as the chief selector.&nbsp;Besides, uncertainty over the futures of two stalwarts, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, and reports of Rohit quitting ODI cricket following the Lord’s ODI in July this year, turned things from bad to worse between the board, selection committee, the two players and the team management, leading to Agarkar’s exit.&nbsp;Moreover, several clean sweeps, including India's shocking 2-0 T20I series loss in Ireland and a 4-0 bashing at the hands of England on the previous UK tour, did not help the cause.

Gautam Gambhir penned a heartfelt note for outgoing chief selector Ajit Agarkar, praising his 'team first' mentality following his decision to step down as BCCI selection committee chairman.

Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir has penned a heartfelt note for the departing chief selector Ajit Agarkar. The former Indian quick decided against renewing his contract as the chairman of the men’s selection committee, with Pragyan Ojha temporarily taking up the spot. The BCCI has also invited applications for the vacant seat on the selection committee. Agarkar was appointed chief selector in July 2023. He chaired team selections for several ICC tournaments, including the 2023 ODI World Cup, 2024 and 2026 T20 World Cups, the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, and two Asia Cup campaigns, of which India won four multi-team tournaments. The Men in Blue were crowned 2025 Champions Trophy winners in Dubai and clinched both T20 World Cups in the Americas (2024) and the subcontinent (2026). India also won two Asia Cup titles in 2023 and 2025. Gambhir, who replaced the legendary Rahul Dravid as Team India’s head coach in mid-2024, worked closely with Agarkar to help shape India’s future across formats. While India tasted enormous success during this period, winning several series and tournaments, they also endured challenging times, including suffering two series whitewashes at home, all under Agarkar and Gambhir’s tutelage. Taking to his X handle, Gambhir posted a message for his former India teammate, saying, “Dear Ajit Bhai, an absolute honour to work with you. Those 3 ICC trophies are testimony of your conviction: Team first & Team ahead, always..I must say, History will be kinder to you. Thank you for everything. My heartfelt wishes for your future endeavours!!”

Gautam Gambhir penned a heartfelt note for outgoing chief selector Ajit Agarkar, praising his 'team first' mentality following his decision to step down as BCCI selection committee chairman.

‘Team first and team ahead’: India coach Gambhir pens heartfelt wish for chief selector Ajit Agarkar

FIFA World Cup 2026, held in the USA, Canada, and Mexico earlier this year, faced criticism for multiple reasons including accommodation in host cities, scheduling, ticket prices, and more. During the tournament, one of the major controversies which erupted was allowing US player Folarin Balogun to play in the match against Belgium in the Round of 16 despite getting a red card in the previous match against Bosnia. Another controversy regarding a player's eligibility has now come to the fore with accusations that FIFA allowed an ineligible player to take part in the World Cup.<h2>Did FIFA allow an ineligible player to take part in World Cup 2026?</h2>According to a FIFA internal investigation, as reported by The Guardian, the apex body found that the Democratic Republic of the Congo had fielded an ineligible player in the qualifiers. Later on, the player, Lionel Mpasi – a goalkeeper – played in the main tournament as well, including in the Round of 32 against England. The goalie was ineligible because of being born in France, playing there at the youth level, and never changing nationalities officially.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ronaldo-explains-leaving-portugal-camp-says-would-be-available-after-whatever-suspension-is-imposed-1791347466359">Ronaldo tells why he left team camp, says would be available post 'suspension'</a><h2>How was the case reported to FIFA?</h2>Nigeria, who played against DRC in November in the qualifiers, had reported the issue to FIFA. The investigators, who work independently, knew about the situation before DRC played against Jamaica in the final intercontinental playoff round in March, reported The New York Times and Le Monde. FIFA, however, rejected the complaint on the basis that the complaint was made outside the required time frame.<h2>Was Infantino involved?</h2>FIFA chief Gianni Infantino was not involved in the investigation process, but his name might be involved as his former university associate, Véron Mosengo-Omba, was elected unopposed as president of the Congolese Football Federation (FECOFA) earlier this year in May.CONCACAF, the confederation of North, Central American, and Caribbean football associations, which has Jamaica as its member, said in a statement: "It takes player eligibility matters very seriously and expects the applicable regulations and procedures to be applied consistently and fairly in all competitions" and that any "concerns regarding player eligibility" should be "thoroughly reviewed and addressed through FIFA’s appropriate governance and disciplinary bodies."&nbsp;

A FIFA probe revealed DRC fielded ineligible keeper Lionel Mpasi in World Cup 2026 after failing to switch nationalities. FIFA rejected Nigeria's complaint over late filing, drawing CONCACAF concern.

FIFA World Cup 2026, held in the USA, Canada, and Mexico earlier this year, faced criticism for multiple reasons including accommodation in host cities, scheduling, ticket prices, and more. During the tournament, one of the major controversies which erupted was allowing US player Folarin Balogun to play in the match against Belgium in the Round of 16 despite getting a red card in the previous match against Bosnia. Another controversy regarding a player's eligibility has now come to the fore with accusations that FIFA allowed an ineligible player to take part in the World Cup. Did FIFA allow an ineligible player to take part in World Cup 2026? According to a FIFA internal investigation, as reported by The Guardian, the apex body found that the Democratic Republic of the Congo had fielded an ineligible player in the qualifiers. Later on, the player, Lionel Mpasi – a goalkeeper – played in the main tournament as well, including in the Round of 32 against England. The goalie was ineligible because of being born in France, playing there at the youth level, and never changing nationalities officially. Also Read - Ronaldo tells why he left team camp, says would be available post 'suspension' How was the case reported to FIFA? Nigeria, who played against DRC in November in the qualifiers, had reported the issue to FIFA. The investigators, who work independently, knew about the situation before DRC played against Jamaica in the final intercontinental playoff round in March, reported The New York Times and Le Monde. FIFA, however, rejected the complaint on the basis that the complaint was made outside the required time frame. Was Infantino involved? FIFA chief Gianni Infantino was not involved in the investigation process, but his name might be involved as his former university associate, Véron Mosengo-Omba, was elected unopposed as president of the Congolese Football Federation (FECOFA) earlier this year in May. CONCACAF, the confederation of North, Central American, and Caribbean football associations, which has Jamaica as its member, said in a statement: "It takes player eligibility matters very seriously and expects the applicable regulations and procedures to be applied consistently and fairly in all competitions" and that any "concerns regarding player eligibility" should be "thoroughly reviewed and addressed through FIFA’s appropriate governance and disciplinary bodies."

A FIFA probe revealed DRC fielded ineligible keeper Lionel Mpasi in World Cup 2026 after failing to switch nationalities. FIFA rejected Nigeria's complaint over late filing, drawing CONCACAF concern.

FIFA allowed DR Congo into World Cup 2026 despite ineligible player probe, reports reveal

Ishan Kishan, since making a comeback to the India T20I team earlier this year, has been unstoppable. The batter has scored 1,042 runs in 30 matches played in 2026 - only behind Suryakumar Yadav's 1,164 runs in 2022. He recently played in the first T20I against West Indies on Tuesday (Oct 6) in Lucknow and scored an unbeaten 37 as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shreyas-iyer-maiden-century-india-beat-west-indies-1st-t20i-lucknow-1791306299510">India chased down the 172-run target</a> with eight wickets in hand. Ishan added 137 runs with skipper Shreyas Iyer (102 not out) for the third wicket as India took a 1-0 lead in the five-match series.<h2>Kishan explains what helped him make India comeback</h2>The Jharkhand wicketkeeper-batter was dropped from the national side across formats in 2023 and only made it back in 2026. The reason for him being dropped was related to discipline and fitness. The batter, after the first T20I against West Indies, spoke to broadcaster JioStar and shared his thoughts on his time out from the national team.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/smriti-mandhana-appointed-india-women-cricket-captain-harmanpreet-kaur-steps-down-1791304432861">Smriti Mandhana named India captain across formats after Harmanpreet steps down</a>"When I was dropped from the international team, I understood the consequences of a few mistakes that I had made. So, I worked on my fitness and my batting. I stayed patient and focused on rectifying my mistakes by doing well in domestic cricket. I knew if I kept performing in domestic cricket, the opportunity would come and I earned the recall to the national squad because of my hard work. Once you come back to the side, you don't think about what's going to happen if I get dropped again. The most important thing is to enjoy cricket and just focus on doing the best I can to contribute to the success of the team. My job is to keep scoring runs and if I am able to do that, then the rest will be taken care of automatically," said Kishan.<h2>Kishan in 2026</h2>The batter has been in scintillating form in the ongoing calendar year. Having already scored 1,042 runs in 30 innings and with four more T20Is left in the West Indies series, Kishan is poised to pass Suryakumar Yadav's tally of 1,164 runs in 2022 - the most for India in T20Is in a calendar year.Kishan has scored his runs at an average of 38.59 and a strike rate of 168 with one hundred and seven fifties, with a highest score of 103. In comparison, Kishan had scored only 796 runs in 32 matches at an average of 25 till 2023 since his debut in 2021.

After returning in 2026, Ishan Kishan scored 1,042 T20I runs. He hit 37* in India's 1st T20I win vs WI in Lucknow and credited hard work in domestic cricket for earning his national team recall.

Ishan Kishan, since making a comeback to the India T20I team earlier this year, has been unstoppable. The batter has scored 1,042 runs in 30 matches played in 2026 - only behind Suryakumar Yadav's 1,164 runs in 2022. He recently played in the first T20I against West Indies on Tuesday (Oct 6) in Lucknow and scored an unbeaten 37 as India chased down the 172-run target with eight wickets in hand. Ishan added 137 runs with skipper Shreyas Iyer (102 not out) for the third wicket as India took a 1-0 lead in the five-match series. Kishan explains what helped him make India comeback The Jharkhand wicketkeeper-batter was dropped from the national side across formats in 2023 and only made it back in 2026. The reason for him being dropped was related to discipline and fitness. The batter, after the first T20I against West Indies, spoke to broadcaster JioStar and shared his thoughts on his time out from the national team. Also Read - Smriti Mandhana named India captain across formats after Harmanpreet steps down "When I was dropped from the international team, I understood the consequences of a few mistakes that I had made. So, I worked on my fitness and my batting. I stayed patient and focused on rectifying my mistakes by doing well in domestic cricket. I knew if I kept performing in domestic cricket, the opportunity would come and I earned the recall to the national squad because of my hard work. Once you come back to the side, you don't think about what's going to happen if I get dropped again. The most important thing is to enjoy cricket and just focus on doing the best I can to contribute to the success of the team. My job is to keep scoring runs and if I am able to do that, then the rest will be taken care of automatically," said Kishan. Kishan in 2026 The batter has been in scintillating form in the ongoing calendar year. Having already scored 1,042 runs in 30 innings and with four more T20Is left in the West Indies series, Kishan is poised to pass Suryakumar Yadav's tally of 1,164 runs in 2022 - the most for India in T20Is in a calendar year. Kishan has scored his runs at an average of 38.59 and a strike rate of 168 with one hundred and seven fifties, with a highest score of 103. In comparison, Kishan had scored only 796 runs in 32 matches at an average of 25 till 2023 since his debut in 2021.

After returning in 2026, Ishan Kishan scored 1,042 T20I runs. He hit 37* in India's 1st T20I win vs WI in Lucknow and credited hard work in domestic cricket for earning his national team recall.

'Understood consequences of a few mistakes': Ishan Kishan reflects on journey back to India team

Portugal footballer Cristiano Ronaldo has explained the reason behind leaving the national team's camp after being an unused substitute in a UEFA Nations League match against Norway (Sep 27) and not being named in the starting XI against Denmark. Ronaldo, who has scored 146 goals for Portugal in 234 appearances – both world records – accused manager Jorge Jesus of breaking his word as the reason behind leaving the national camp in Copenhagen. Ronaldo, however, acknowledged that his conduct was not up to mark for a captain and he's ready to accept any punishment for the same.<h2>Ronaldo explains why he left Portugal camp</h2>In a statement issued, the footballer, who was seen warming up in the second half of the match against Norway (Sep 27) after being told by the manager that he would be used for 30 minutes, said: "I warmed up from half-time onwards, watched the minutes tick by and wasn’t called on. The manager had broken his word to me."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/goodbye-to-all-of-you-watch-messi-scores-in-3-0-win-over-benin-in-emotional-argentina-farewell-1791343997405">'Goodbye to all of you': Lionel Messi bids adieu to his Argentina career with a goal in 3-0 win over Benin</a>The statement further says that the two sides met for a discussion and it was agreed that Jesus would explain things in the press conference ahead of the Denmark match, but not much was said by the Portugal manager."It was the second time he had broken his word to me," Ronaldo said. "I decided to leave the training camp without waiting for any further broken promises."<h2>What next for Ronaldo</h2>The footballer, as told by Jesus on Sunday after Portugal's win against Norway, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/portugal-coach-jesus-shares-update-on-ronaldo-s-future-with-national-side-1791182060249">will be welcomed back</a> to the team if he decides to come back. Ronaldo, who acknowledged that his actions involving not greeting fans after the first Norway group-stage match were not right, added in the statement: "The consequences of my actions must be assessed and punished by the Portuguese Football Federation."He, however, remains more than available to come back and play for Portugal, adding: "If I’m physically fit, playing for my club – scoring goals, I hope – after serving whatever suspension is imposed on me, I’ll be available, as I’ve always been until now, to compete and win for our national team."

Cristiano Ronaldo left Portugal's camp after benching against Norway, accusing manager Jorge Jesus of broken promises. Ronaldo admitted misconduct as captain and is open to returning after suspension.

Portugal footballer Cristiano Ronaldo has explained the reason behind leaving the national team's camp after being an unused substitute in a UEFA Nations League match against Norway (Sep 27) and not being named in the starting XI against Denmark. Ronaldo, who has scored 146 goals for Portugal in 234 appearances – both world records – accused manager Jorge Jesus of breaking his word as the reason behind leaving the national camp in Copenhagen. Ronaldo, however, acknowledged that his conduct was not up to mark for a captain and he's ready to accept any punishment for the same. Ronaldo explains why he left Portugal camp In a statement issued, the footballer, who was seen warming up in the second half of the match against Norway (Sep 27) after being told by the manager that he would be used for 30 minutes, said: "I warmed up from half-time onwards, watched the minutes tick by and wasn’t called on. The manager had broken his word to me." Also Read - 'Goodbye to all of you': Lionel Messi bids adieu to his Argentina career with a goal in 3-0 win over Benin The statement further says that the two sides met for a discussion and it was agreed that Jesus would explain things in the press conference ahead of the Denmark match, but not much was said by the Portugal manager. "It was the second time he had broken his word to me," Ronaldo said. "I decided to leave the training camp without waiting for any further broken promises." What next for Ronaldo The footballer, as told by Jesus on Sunday after Portugal's win against Norway, will be welcomed back to the team if he decides to come back. Ronaldo, who acknowledged that his actions involving not greeting fans after the first Norway group-stage match were not right, added in the statement: "The consequences of my actions must be assessed and punished by the Portuguese Football Federation." He, however, remains more than available to come back and play for Portugal, adding: "If I’m physically fit, playing for my club – scoring goals, I hope – after serving whatever suspension is imposed on me, I’ll be available, as I’ve always been until now, to compete and win for our national team."

Cristiano Ronaldo left Portugal's camp after benching against Norway, accusing manager Jorge Jesus of broken promises. Ronaldo admitted misconduct as captain and is open to returning after suspension.

Ronaldo explains leaving Portugal camp, says would be available after 'whatever suspension is imposed'

Talismanic footballer Lionel Messi, who thrilled fans with his exceptional skills for two decades, bid adieu to his international career on Tuesday (Oct 6) in Buenos Aires in front of home fans. Messi scored a goal and provided two assists in his final Argentina match, which came against Benin, leading his team to a 3-0 win one last time. There was a lot of emotion around the match, given Messi won't wear the blue and white number-10 shirt ever again. Messi said goodbye with 208 appearances for Argentina in a 21-year-long career which saw him win two Copa América titles and one FIFA World Cup.<h2>Messi bids farewell to Argentina career</h2>The stadium erupted with echoes of "Messi, Messi" as the 39-year-old put a penalty into the net in the 71st minute and, in an address to the crowd after the final whistle, called retiring from playing for Argentina the "saddest day of my career."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/daniil-medvedev-reveals-why-he-struck-ball-that-hit-spectator-at-china-open-1791256340796">Daniil Medvedev reveals why he struck ball that hit spectator at China Open</a>"Goodbye to all of you. I'm going to miss you; I'm going to miss defending the national team's colors, but now I'll be right there alongside you, supporting these guys and everyone who comes after them. Always, always united. I just want to tell you that I love you and I'll miss you," Messi said. "I'm proud to be Argentine and to have fulfilled this dream with all of you. Thank you so much."Watch Messi's final goal for Argentina below:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🚨🚨 LEO MESSI SCORING IN HIS FINAL GAME! Look at how his teammates celebrated with him ❤️😭 https://t.co/TeMBRMcJcx&mdash; We Are Messi 🔟 (@WeAreMessi) <a href="https://x.com/WeAreMessi/status/2107640694420693152?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 7, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Messi's career at a glance</h2>Messi started playing for Argentina in 2005 when he faced Hungary on August 17. He had briefly retired in 2016 but then came back to enjoy the most successful stint of his career - winning the Copa América in 2021 and 2024, and the FIFA World Cup in 2022. Messi appeared in five FIFA World Cups and scored 13 goals. He won the prestigious Ballon d'Or award eight times and finishes behind his great rival Cristiano Ronaldo (146 goals in 234 games) in terms of most goals (126 in 208 games) in international football.&nbsp;

Lionel Messi ended his international career on Oct 6 in Buenos Aires, scoring a penalty and assisting twice in Argentina's 3-0 win vs Benin. He thanked home fans in an emotional goodbye speech.

Talismanic footballer Lionel Messi, who thrilled fans with his exceptional skills for two decades, bid adieu to his international career on Tuesday (Oct 6) in Buenos Aires in front of home fans. Messi scored a goal and provided two assists in his final Argentina match, which came against Benin, leading his team to a 3-0 win one last time. There was a lot of emotion around the match, given Messi won't wear the blue and white number-10 shirt ever again. Messi said goodbye with 208 appearances for Argentina in a 21-year-long career which saw him win two Copa América titles and one FIFA World Cup. Messi bids farewell to Argentina career The stadium erupted with echoes of "Messi, Messi" as the 39-year-old put a penalty into the net in the 71st minute and, in an address to the crowd after the final whistle, called retiring from playing for Argentina the "saddest day of my career." Also Read - Daniil Medvedev reveals why he struck ball that hit spectator at China Open "Goodbye to all of you. I'm going to miss you; I'm going to miss defending the national team's colors, but now I'll be right there alongside you, supporting these guys and everyone who comes after them. Always, always united. I just want to tell you that I love you and I'll miss you," Messi said. "I'm proud to be Argentine and to have fulfilled this dream with all of you. Thank you so much." Watch Messi's final goal for Argentina below:

Lionel Messi ended his international career on Oct 6 in Buenos Aires, scoring a penalty and assisting twice in Argentina's 3-0 win vs Benin. He thanked home fans in an emotional goodbye speech.

'Goodbye to all of you': Lionel Messi bids adieu to his Argentina career with a goal in 3-0 win over Benin

Spain fought back against Croatia to win 2-1 in Split on Tuesday and remain perfect in Nations League Group A3 while Harry Kane continued his hot form as England beat the Czech Republic 3-0 to stay second. The victory in Split preserved Spain's long unbeaten run and ensured they will finish in the top two in the four-team group and advance to the quarter-finals. England stayed three points behind Spain with a home win and will advance to the last four if they do not lose their next game at home to Croatia by eight or more goals.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-nations-league-france-come-from-behind-to-thrash-belgium-italy-continue-resurgence-1791252043621">Nations League: France thrash Belgium; Italy continue resurgence</a>In their previous match, Croatia capitulated 7-0 to England up the Dalmatian coast at Rijeka. Because of a ban brought on by persistent fan racism, that crowd was made up of 6,000 children under the age of 14.In a very different atmosphere, Croatia gave a spikier performance and took the lead after 17 minutes. Unai Simon dived to save a low drive from Igor Matanovic but only pushed the ball into the air. Ivan Perisic, a former teammate of Kane at Tottenham, nodded the ball home.While Spain dominated first-half possession, Croatia created the most dangerous chances and Matanovic could have doubled the lead.Spain's pressure told after 61 minutes, Dani Olmo collected a poor clearance and rolled the ball to substitute Mikel Merino who had space to pick his spot.Perisic had earned a yellow card for an excited lunge soon after scoring. That turned into a costly sending off when he was booked again after 79 minutes for a push on Marc Cucurella.With a minute of normal time left, Merino found space in the box to turn and drive home &nbsp;the winner."Another game in which it was my turn to score from the bench," Merino told TVE, adding: "I'll go out there with the best possible attitude even while frustrated about not being able to play more... but this team is a family and that always shows."<h2>'Perfect night'</h2>The win stretched Spain's unbeaten run to 42 games. The one blemish in that run for the European and World Champions was a penalty shootout loss to Portugal after the last Nations League final had ended in a draw."There are days like today when the &nbsp;streak can become complicated," said Merino.England lost their opener at home to Spain, when Kane missed a penalty that would have salvaged a draw, but have since won three games. Their veteran striker scored once away to the Czechs and twice in Croatia.On Tuesday, as he equalled the England appearance record held by goalkeeper Peter Shilton with a 125th cap, Kane stretched his national scoring record to 91 with another double."Perfect night for me personally and also for the team," Kane told ITV on the pitch. "An extremely proud evening."England were presented with their opener after 27 minutes when Vladimir Coufal, perhaps imagining an attacker behind him, smashed an England cross into his own net.Kane finished off a quick, clever England attack by wrong-footing the goalkeeper from close range after 40 minutes. He hit the crossbar early in the second half and then headed home a corner after 57 minutes."You saw some fantastic football from us tonight," said Kane."As a striker you're just licking your lips and waiting for your opportunities."Kane received praise from team-mate Jude Bellingham."He's playing at a level where it's pretty unmatched, when you look across the world," &nbsp;said the Real Madrid star."He's scoring goals for fun, he's still dropping in deep and delivering those passes in behind and wide and contributing in so many areas of the pitch."In League B, Ryan Christie coolly flicked the ball between his legs to score a 31st-minute opener for Scotland at home to Slovenia but Aljosa Matko and Danijel Sturm hit back after half time to give the visitors a 2-1 win.Leaders Switzerland ensured they will finish in the top two after they beat North Macedonia 3-0 in Lucerne, Fabian Rieder gave the hosts a first-half lead and Johan Manzambi and Dan Ndoye added late goals.

 England stayed three points behind Spain with a home win and will advance to the last four if they do not lose their next game at home to Croatia by eight or more goals.

Spain fought back against Croatia to win 2-1 in Split on Tuesday and remain perfect in Nations League Group A3 while Harry Kane continued his hot form as England beat the Czech Republic 3-0 to stay second. The victory in Split preserved Spain's long unbeaten run and ensured they will finish in the top two in the four-team group and advance to the quarter-finals. England stayed three points behind Spain with a home win and will advance to the last four if they do not lose their next game at home to Croatia by eight or more goals. Also Read - Nations League: France thrash Belgium; Italy continue resurgence In their previous match, Croatia capitulated 7-0 to England up the Dalmatian coast at Rijeka. Because of a ban brought on by persistent fan racism, that crowd was made up of 6,000 children under the age of 14. In a very different atmosphere, Croatia gave a spikier performance and took the lead after 17 minutes. Unai Simon dived to save a low drive from Igor Matanovic but only pushed the ball into the air. Ivan Perisic, a former teammate of Kane at Tottenham, nodded the ball home. While Spain dominated first-half possession, Croatia created the most dangerous chances and Matanovic could have doubled the lead. Spain's pressure told after 61 minutes, Dani Olmo collected a poor clearance and rolled the ball to substitute Mikel Merino who had space to pick his spot. Perisic had earned a yellow card for an excited lunge soon after scoring. That turned into a costly sending off when he was booked again after 79 minutes for a push on Marc Cucurella. With a minute of normal time left, Merino found space in the box to turn and drive home the winner. "Another game in which it was my turn to score from the bench," Merino told TVE, adding: "I'll go out there with the best possible attitude even while frustrated about not being able to play more... but this team is a family and that always shows." 'Perfect night' The win stretched Spain's unbeaten run to 42 games. The one blemish in that run for the European and World Champions was a penalty shootout loss to Portugal after the last Nations League final had ended in a draw. "There are days like today when the streak can become complicated," said Merino. England lost their opener at home to Spain, when Kane missed a penalty that would have salvaged a draw, but have since won three games. Their veteran striker scored once away to the Czechs and twice in Croatia. On Tuesday, as he equalled the England appearance record held by goalkeeper Peter Shilton with a 125th cap, Kane stretched his national scoring record to 91 with another double. "Perfect night for me personally and also for the team," Kane told ITV on the pitch. "An extremely proud evening." England were presented with their opener after 27 minutes when Vladimir Coufal, perhaps imagining an attacker behind him, smashed an England cross into his own net. Kane finished off a quick, clever England attack by wrong-footing the goalkeeper from close range after 40 minutes. He hit the crossbar early in the second half and then headed home a corner after 57 minutes. "You saw some fantastic football from us tonight," said Kane. "As a striker you're just licking your lips and waiting for your opportunities." Kane received praise from team-mate Jude Bellingham. "He's playing at a level where it's pretty unmatched, when you look across the world," said the Real Madrid star. "He's scoring goals for fun, he's still dropping in deep and delivering those passes in behind and wide and contributing in so many areas of the pitch." In League B, Ryan Christie coolly flicked the ball between his legs to score a 31st-minute opener for Scotland at home to Slovenia but Aljosa Matko and Danijel Sturm hit back after half time to give the visitors a 2-1 win. Leaders Switzerland ensured they will finish in the top two after they beat North Macedonia 3-0 in Lucerne, Fabian Rieder gave the hosts a first-half lead and Johan Manzambi and Dan Ndoye added late goals.

&nbsp;England stayed three points behind Spain with a home win and will advance to the last four if they do not lose their next game at home to Croatia by eight or more goals.

UEFA Nations League: Spain overcome Croatia, Kane continues hot form as England beat Czechia

India’s T20I captain Shreyas Iyer scored his maiden hundred in this format on Tuesday evening in Lucknow, guiding the hosts to a comfortable eight-wicket win over West Indies in the series opener. Iyer’s unbeaten 102 makes him the third Indian captain after Rohit Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav to score a T20I hundred. Bowling first at the Ekana Stadium, debutant Naman Dhir returned with three wickets for 31, while two left-arm spinners Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav picked up two wickets each. India chased 172 with eight wickets and 32 balls remaining.&nbsp;Just three days after leading the men’s T20I team to a gold medal at the 2026 Asian Games in Japan, Iyer was back in India knocking off the West Indian bowlers for fun. With 335 T20 runs at a strike rate of 200.59, including 32 fours and 17 sixes, Iyer’s love affair with Lucknow continued.&nbsp;“Not really (on feeling at home in Lucknow). After that exhausting travel, I didn't realise where I was, to be honest. I think every day I just need to wake up like this. But yeah, I adapted quickly to the wicket, to the conditions, and I think bowling first helped us a lot,” Iyer said during the post-match presentation.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bhuvneshwar-kumar-recalled-india-t20i-squad-new-zealand-jurel-captain-india-a-1791303593439">Bhuvneshwar Kumar recalled for New Zealand T20Is after 4 years; Dhruv Jurel to lead India ‘A’</a>&nbsp;Shedding light on adapting quickly amid a crunch cricketing schedule, and what he feels about his maiden T20I hundred, the Indian skipper said, “We just didn't look at it as an excuse. We wanted to come and play as any other cricketer would, and yeah, we saw the excitement of India versus West Indies in the ODIs, how amazing it was. But coming into T20s, we know that they are a destructive side. So, for us, it's important that we stuck to the process, and that's what we did today. So, great efforts by every individual.”&nbsp;“Well, definitely exultant (on how special his maiden T20I hundred was). That's the word I would use today (for the) the performance. And yeah, obviously speaking, I was actually thinking about getting my first century, and it came through. So, you know, I definitely want to say that dreams do come true,” Iyer said.<h3>What happened in the 1st T20I between India and West Indies</h3>Iyer won the toss and elected to bowl first, with West Indies starting rapidly inside the Powerplay. Three quick wickets in the first six overs held back their momentum, but handy stands from Shai Hope and Sherfane Rutherford at the death saw them post a fighting total (171).&nbsp;Indian openers Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma added 29 for the first wicket before Roston Chase dismissed Abhishek for 21. Samson departed in the next over off Akeal Hosein, leaving captain Iyer and Ishan Kishan at the crease. The two then stitched the third-highest stand (137*) by an Indian pair in a run chase.&nbsp;Iyer’s 102* is also the fourth-highest individual score by an Indian captain in T20Is. The right-hander hit 10 fours and six sixes in his marathon knock.

Captain Shreyas Iyer smashed a blistering maiden T20I hundred off 43 balls to power India to a dominant 8-wicket win over West Indies in the 1st T20I in Lucknow. Read full details. 

India’s T20I captain Shreyas Iyer scored his maiden hundred in this format on Tuesday evening in Lucknow, guiding the hosts to a comfortable eight-wicket win over West Indies in the series opener. Iyer’s unbeaten 102 makes him the third Indian captain after Rohit Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav to score a T20I hundred. Bowling first at the Ekana Stadium, debutant Naman Dhir returned with three wickets for 31, while two left-arm spinners Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav picked up two wickets each. India chased 172 with eight wickets and 32 balls remaining. Just three days after leading the men’s T20I team to a gold medal at the 2026 Asian Games in Japan, Iyer was back in India knocking off the West Indian bowlers for fun. With 335 T20 runs at a strike rate of 200.59, including 32 fours and 17 sixes, Iyer’s love affair with Lucknow continued. “Not really (on feeling at home in Lucknow). After that exhausting travel, I didn't realise where I was, to be honest. I think every day I just need to wake up like this. But yeah, I adapted quickly to the wicket, to the conditions, and I think bowling first helped us a lot,” Iyer said during the post-match presentation. Also read| Bhuvneshwar Kumar recalled for New Zealand T20Is after 4 years; Dhruv Jurel to lead India ‘A’ Shedding light on adapting quickly amid a crunch cricketing schedule, and what he feels about his maiden T20I hundred, the Indian skipper said, “We just didn't look at it as an excuse. We wanted to come and play as any other cricketer would, and yeah, we saw the excitement of India versus West Indies in the ODIs, how amazing it was. But coming into T20s, we know that they are a destructive side. So, for us, it's important that we stuck to the process, and that's what we did today. So, great efforts by every individual.” “Well, definitely exultant (on how special his maiden T20I hundred was). That's the word I would use today (for the) the performance. And yeah, obviously speaking, I was actually thinking about getting my first century, and it came through. So, you know, I definitely want to say that dreams do come true,” Iyer said. What happened in the 1st T20I between India and West Indies Iyer won the toss and elected to bowl first, with West Indies starting rapidly inside the Powerplay. Three quick wickets in the first six overs held back their momentum, but handy stands from Shai Hope and Sherfane Rutherford at the death saw them post a fighting total (171). Indian openers Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma added 29 for the first wicket before Roston Chase dismissed Abhishek for 21. Samson departed in the next over off Akeal Hosein, leaving captain Iyer and Ishan Kishan at the crease. The two then stitched the third-highest stand (137*) by an Indian pair in a run chase. Iyer’s 102* is also the fourth-highest individual score by an Indian captain in T20Is. The right-hander hit 10 fours and six sixes in his marathon knock.

Captain Shreyas Iyer smashed a blistering maiden T20I hundred off 43 balls to power India to a dominant 8-wicket win over West Indies in the 1st T20I in Lucknow. Read full details.&nbsp;

Shreyas Iyer’s maiden T20I hundred powers India to 8-wicket win over West Indies in Lucknow

Opener Smriti Mandhana has been named India's all-format captain, hours after talismanic skipper Harmanpreet Kaur stepped down from leadership. Harmanpreet led India for nearly a decade, winning six multi-team ICC and ACC tournaments, including two gold medals at the Asian Games. Mandhana, her deputy during most of this period, had earlier led the women’s team in four ODIs and 18 T20Is. She has also captained Maharashtra in the domestic circuit and Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the Women’s Premier League (WPL).&nbsp;Mandhana’s first assignment as a full-time captain is the limited-over series against Zimbabwe, starting with three T20Is on October 16.&nbsp;Speaking on this opportunity to lead across formats, the left-handed opener was quoted as saying by the BCCI, "I would also like to acknowledge Harmanpreet and the contribution she has made as captain over the years. She has led the team with great commitment and has been an important part of our journey.&nbsp;"I understand the responsibility that comes with this role and look forward to working with the team, learning along the way and giving my best to take Indian cricket forward."&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bhuvneshwar-kumar-recalled-india-t20i-squad-new-zealand-jurel-captain-india-a-1791303593439">Bhuvneshwar Kumar recalled for New Zealand T20Is after 4 years; Dhruv Jurel to lead India ‘A’</a>&nbsp;A review meeting on Monday in Guwahati—chaired by BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia and attended by Mandhana, Harmanpreet Kaur, and head coach Amol Mazumdar—led to Mandhana’s appointment as the all-format captain. The think tank worked on the roadmap, with an eye on next year’s inaugural Women’s Champions Trophy in February, followed by the T20 World Cup and LA28 Summer Games.&nbsp;In September this year, Mandhana surpassed former Indian captain Mithali Raj to become the leading run-scorer in international cricket across formats. India’s best all-format batter, Mandhana also has the most international hundreds (18) in women’s cricket. She is also the first Indian woman to score hundreds in all three formats.<h3>White-Ball Squads for the Zimbabwe Series –</h3>T20I Squad: Smriti Mandhana (captain), Shafali Verma (vice-captain), Niki Prasad, Harmanpreet Kaur, Anushka Sharma, Richa Ghosh (wk), G Kamalini (wk), Deepti Sharma, Prema Rawat, N Shree Charani, Nandani Sharma, Kranti Gaud, Arundhati Reddy, Jintimani Kalita and Minnu Mani&nbsp;ODI Squad: Smriti Mandhana (captain), Shafali Verma, Pratika Rawal, Harmanpreet Kaur, Harleen Deol, Tejal Hasabnis, Deepti Sharma (vice-captain), Richa Ghosh (wk), Yastika Bhatia (wk), Vaishnavi Sharma, Nandani Sharma, N Shree Charani, Kranti Gaud, Sayali Satghare and Renuka Singh

Smriti Mandhana has been appointed as the new all-format captain of the Indian women's cricket team following Harmanpreet Kaur stepping down. Read full details.

Opener Smriti Mandhana has been named India's all-format captain, hours after talismanic skipper Harmanpreet Kaur stepped down from leadership. Harmanpreet led India for nearly a decade, winning six multi-team ICC and ACC tournaments, including two gold medals at the Asian Games. Mandhana, her deputy during most of this period, had earlier led the women’s team in four ODIs and 18 T20Is. She has also captained Maharashtra in the domestic circuit and Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the Women’s Premier League (WPL). Mandhana’s first assignment as a full-time captain is the limited-over series against Zimbabwe, starting with three T20Is on October 16. Speaking on this opportunity to lead across formats, the left-handed opener was quoted as saying by the BCCI, "I would also like to acknowledge Harmanpreet and the contribution she has made as captain over the years. She has led the team with great commitment and has been an important part of our journey. "I understand the responsibility that comes with this role and look forward to working with the team, learning along the way and giving my best to take Indian cricket forward." Also read| Bhuvneshwar Kumar recalled for New Zealand T20Is after 4 years; Dhruv Jurel to lead India ‘A’ A review meeting on Monday in Guwahati—chaired by BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia and attended by Mandhana, Harmanpreet Kaur, and head coach Amol Mazumdar—led to Mandhana’s appointment as the all-format captain. The think tank worked on the roadmap, with an eye on next year’s inaugural Women’s Champions Trophy in February, followed by the T20 World Cup and LA28 Summer Games. In September this year, Mandhana surpassed former Indian captain Mithali Raj to become the leading run-scorer in international cricket across formats. India’s best all-format batter, Mandhana also has the most international hundreds (18) in women’s cricket. She is also the first Indian woman to score hundreds in all three formats. White-Ball Squads for the Zimbabwe Series – T20I Squad: Smriti Mandhana (captain), Shafali Verma (vice-captain), Niki Prasad, Harmanpreet Kaur, Anushka Sharma, Richa Ghosh (wk), G Kamalini (wk), Deepti Sharma, Prema Rawat, N Shree Charani, Nandani Sharma, Kranti Gaud, Arundhati Reddy, Jintimani Kalita and Minnu Mani ODI Squad: Smriti Mandhana (captain), Shafali Verma, Pratika Rawal, Harmanpreet Kaur, Harleen Deol, Tejal Hasabnis, Deepti Sharma (vice-captain), Richa Ghosh (wk), Yastika Bhatia (wk), Vaishnavi Sharma, Nandani Sharma, N Shree Charani, Kranti Gaud, Sayali Satghare and Renuka Singh

Smriti Mandhana has been appointed as the new all-format captain of the Indian women's cricket team following Harmanpreet Kaur stepping down. Read full details.

Smriti Mandhana named India captain across formats after Harmanpreet Kaur steps down

Indian seamer Bhuvneshwar Kumar has been recalled to the India squad for the five-match T20I series against New Zealand starting October 22. The right-arm swing bowler has returned to the T20I side four years after his last appearance, with current premier quick Jasprit Bumrah rested. Hardik Pandya and Harshit Rana are also absent from the 16-man squad picked late on Tuesday (Oct 6). While attacking opener Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has retained his place, Naman Dhir, who made his India debut during the final ODI against the West Indies, has also been picked. Varun Chakravarthy has also been called up.<h3>India Squad for New Zealand T20Is –</h3>Shreyas Iyer (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Ishan Kishan, Tilak Varma, Axar Patel, Shivam Dube, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Naman Dhir, Prince Yadav, Mayank Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Varun Chakravarthy and Kuldeep Yadav&nbsp;Meanwhile, keeper-batter Dhruv Jurel will lead the India ‘A’ squad for three unofficial multi-day matches in New Zealand. Several Test regulars like Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Devdutt Padikkal, Sai Sudharsan and Rishabh Pant have been included, with uncapped Ravichandran Smaran also earning a deserving call-up.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shreyas-iyer-maiden-century-india-beat-west-indies-1st-t20i-lucknow-1791306299510">Shreyas Iyer’s maiden T20I hundred powers India to 8-wicket win over West Indies in Lucknow</a>&nbsp;Amongst the quicks, the Pragyan Ojha-led selection committee picked Auqib Nabi, Anshul Kamboj, Mukesh Kumar and Test candidate Akash Deep.<h3>India ‘A’ squad for New Zealand series –</h3>Dhruv Jurel (captain), Rishabh Pant, Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Ravichandran Smaran, Devdutt Padikkal, Sai Sudharsan, Manav Suthar, Washington Sundar, Mukesh Choudhary, Yash Rathod, Anshul Kamboj, Auqib Nabi, Akash Deep and Mukesh Kumar<h3>Bhuvneshwar is back after 4 years</h3>Having last played for India in November 2022 against New Zealand in a T20I game, Bhuvneshwar Kumar earned a surprising call-up to the Indian team for the upcoming five-match T20I series. However, his inclusion as the leader of the pack hasn’t been the most shocking call, as the BCCI selectors considered his IPL 2026 performances, wherein he returned with 28 wickets in RCB’s triumphant campaign.&nbsp;At 36, Bhuvneshwar has already featured in 87 T20Is, picking up 90 wickets at an average of 23.10 and an economy of 6.96.Should he get a chance during the New Zealand T20Is, Bhuvneshwar will become the third-oldest specialist bowler to play for India in international cricket after Ashish Nehra (38 years and 186 days) and Shute Banerjee (37 years and 124 days).&nbsp;Mystery spinner Varun has also returned to the T20I squad after missing all action since suffering a side strain in the T20I series opener against Afghanistan in September.&nbsp;Meanwhile, India’s pace attack also includes newcomers Mayank Yadav, Prince Yadav and seasoned quick Arshdeep Singh, with no signs of Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj. Nitish Kumar Reddy finds a place in the squad in the absence of Pandya, who continues his recovery at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence.

Veteran seamer Bhuvneshwar Kumar earns a surprise recall to India’s T20I squad for the New Zealand series after 4 years, while Dhruv Jurel is named India 'A' captain. Check out the full squads here. 

Indian seamer Bhuvneshwar Kumar has been recalled to the India squad for the five-match T20I series against New Zealand starting October 22. The right-arm swing bowler has returned to the T20I side four years after his last appearance, with current premier quick Jasprit Bumrah rested. Hardik Pandya and Harshit Rana are also absent from the 16-man squad picked late on Tuesday (Oct 6). While attacking opener Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has retained his place, Naman Dhir, who made his India debut during the final ODI against the West Indies, has also been picked. Varun Chakravarthy has also been called up. India Squad for New Zealand T20Is – Shreyas Iyer (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Ishan Kishan, Tilak Varma, Axar Patel, Shivam Dube, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Naman Dhir, Prince Yadav, Mayank Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Varun Chakravarthy and Kuldeep Yadav Meanwhile, keeper-batter Dhruv Jurel will lead the India ‘A’ squad for three unofficial multi-day matches in New Zealand. Several Test regulars like Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Devdutt Padikkal, Sai Sudharsan and Rishabh Pant have been included, with uncapped Ravichandran Smaran also earning a deserving call-up. Also read| Shreyas Iyer’s maiden T20I hundred powers India to 8-wicket win over West Indies in Lucknow Amongst the quicks, the Pragyan Ojha-led selection committee picked Auqib Nabi, Anshul Kamboj, Mukesh Kumar and Test candidate Akash Deep. India ‘A’ squad for New Zealand series – Dhruv Jurel (captain), Rishabh Pant, Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Ravichandran Smaran, Devdutt Padikkal, Sai Sudharsan, Manav Suthar, Washington Sundar, Mukesh Choudhary, Yash Rathod, Anshul Kamboj, Auqib Nabi, Akash Deep and Mukesh Kumar Bhuvneshwar is back after 4 years Having last played for India in November 2022 against New Zealand in a T20I game, Bhuvneshwar Kumar earned a surprising call-up to the Indian team for the upcoming five-match T20I series. However, his inclusion as the leader of the pack hasn’t been the most shocking call, as the BCCI selectors considered his IPL 2026 performances, wherein he returned with 28 wickets in RCB’s triumphant campaign. At 36, Bhuvneshwar has already featured in 87 T20Is, picking up 90 wickets at an average of 23.10 and an economy of 6.96. Should he get a chance during the New Zealand T20Is, Bhuvneshwar will become the third-oldest specialist bowler to play for India in international cricket after Ashish Nehra (38 years and 186 days) and Shute Banerjee (37 years and 124 days). Mystery spinner Varun has also returned to the T20I squad after missing all action since suffering a side strain in the T20I series opener against Afghanistan in September. Meanwhile, India’s pace attack also includes newcomers Mayank Yadav, Prince Yadav and seasoned quick Arshdeep Singh, with no signs of Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj. Nitish Kumar Reddy finds a place in the squad in the absence of Pandya, who continues his recovery at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence.

Veteran seamer Bhuvneshwar Kumar earns a surprise recall to India’s T20I squad for the New Zealand series after 4 years, while Dhruv Jurel is named India 'A' captain. Check out the full squads here.&nbsp;

Bhuvneshwar Kumar recalled for New Zealand T20Is after 4 years; Dhruv Jurel to lead India 'A'

Australia suffered a blow to their preparations for the Test series against South Africa after losing key all-rounder Cameron Green for the series opener in Durban starting Friday (Oct 9). Green suffered an abdominal strain while batting during the third ODI in Potchefstroom. Even if Green recovers at some point in the series, he will only play as a batter.&nbsp;During the third and final ODI, Corbin Bosch hit Green in the stomach, after which the lanky all-rounder smashed him for a six before being dismissed on the next ball. Despite the blow, there is optimism within the Australian medical camp, which expects Green to feature in the second and third Tests in Gqeberha or Cape Town, respectively.&nbsp;"He's (Green) progressing pretty well, all things considered," Australia head coach Andrew McDonald said ahead of the team's first full training session at Kingsmead, venue for the first Test. "He's still here for a reason, so there is some light at the end of the tunnel. It'll just be a matter of going through the rehab.&nbsp;"He's got a pretty demanding week this week as he reintroduces a few activities, and you'll see that probably play out in the net situation [and] during lunchtime, in and around the game. It's a bit of an unknown, but there's still optimism that he will take part in the series at some point,” he said.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sa-vs-aus-2026-kagiso-rabada-fitness-durban-first-test-1791286624472">SA vs AUS 2026: South Africa to take call on Rabada’s availability for first Test ‘as late as possible’</a>&nbsp;Speaking on Green’s bowling chances during the series, McDonald said, “That's highly unlikely. I think with where he was with his shoulder injury, he missed a fair bit of work there. We'd be solely focused on getting him to return as a batter. We wouldn't be putting that demand on him to return as a bowler. I think that would be too high a risk, as the information that I have.”<h3>Who Replaces Green?</h3>Green was crucial to Australia’s comeback during the home two-match Test series against Bangladesh with his brilliant hundred in Mackay, with Aussies banking on his red-ball form to taste success in South Africa. An unfortunate and untimely injury to him just three days before the start of the first Test leaves Australia with two options to choose from: Nic Maddinson and Cooper Connolly.&nbsp;While Connolly leads the race with age and form on his side, Maddinson, who hasn’t played any first-class cricket since March 2025, shortly after which he was diagnosed with cancer, has an edge over the youngster in the first Test, and the head coach explains how.&nbsp;"If you look [at] probably that a sweet spot that he was in, you could almost say it's from '18 to '24, he was picked for an Australia A tour…so if Australia A selection is an indicator of where you are on the selectors' radar, then he's been there or thereabouts for a while.&nbsp;"I'd say it would be a surprise in the fact that he battled his own personal health there for a period of time. But, I mean, what a great story. He's come back in, he's had a full pre-season, he's looking fit and strong [and he] peels off 100 in the first [one-day] game. Anyone that's been on the radar or there or thereabouts, they don't sort of drop off automatically,” McDonald said&nbsp;Moreover, McDonald also confirmed that Travis Head is ‘likely’ to continue in his role as the Test opener, with Matt Renshaw set to be his partner. Keeper-batter Alex Carey could also be moved higher up the order to number six.

Cameron Green has been ruled out of Australia's 1st Test against South Africa in Durban due to an abdominal strain, leaving Nic Maddinson & Cooper Connolly in contention.

Australia suffered a blow to their preparations for the Test series against South Africa after losing key all-rounder Cameron Green for the series opener in Durban starting Friday (Oct 9). Green suffered an abdominal strain while batting during the third ODI in Potchefstroom. Even if Green recovers at some point in the series, he will only play as a batter. During the third and final ODI, Corbin Bosch hit Green in the stomach, after which the lanky all-rounder smashed him for a six before being dismissed on the next ball. Despite the blow, there is optimism within the Australian medical camp, which expects Green to feature in the second and third Tests in Gqeberha or Cape Town, respectively. "He's (Green) progressing pretty well, all things considered," Australia head coach Andrew McDonald said ahead of the team's first full training session at Kingsmead, venue for the first Test. "He's still here for a reason, so there is some light at the end of the tunnel. It'll just be a matter of going through the rehab. "He's got a pretty demanding week this week as he reintroduces a few activities, and you'll see that probably play out in the net situation [and] during lunchtime, in and around the game. It's a bit of an unknown, but there's still optimism that he will take part in the series at some point,” he said. Also read| SA vs AUS 2026: South Africa to take call on Rabada’s availability for first Test ‘as late as possible’ Speaking on Green’s bowling chances during the series, McDonald said, “That's highly unlikely. I think with where he was with his shoulder injury, he missed a fair bit of work there. We'd be solely focused on getting him to return as a batter. We wouldn't be putting that demand on him to return as a bowler. I think that would be too high a risk, as the information that I have.” Who Replaces Green? Green was crucial to Australia’s comeback during the home two-match Test series against Bangladesh with his brilliant hundred in Mackay, with Aussies banking on his red-ball form to taste success in South Africa. An unfortunate and untimely injury to him just three days before the start of the first Test leaves Australia with two options to choose from: Nic Maddinson and Cooper Connolly. While Connolly leads the race with age and form on his side, Maddinson, who hasn’t played any first-class cricket since March 2025, shortly after which he was diagnosed with cancer, has an edge over the youngster in the first Test, and the head coach explains how. "If you look [at] probably that a sweet spot that he was in, you could almost say it's from '18 to '24, he was picked for an Australia A tour…so if Australia A selection is an indicator of where you are on the selectors' radar, then he's been there or thereabouts for a while. "I'd say it would be a surprise in the fact that he battled his own personal health there for a period of time. But, I mean, what a great story. He's come back in, he's had a full pre-season, he's looking fit and strong [and he] peels off 100 in the first [one-day] game. Anyone that's been on the radar or there or thereabouts, they don't sort of drop off automatically,” McDonald said Moreover, McDonald also confirmed that Travis Head is ‘likely’ to continue in his role as the Test opener, with Matt Renshaw set to be his partner. Keeper-batter Alex Carey could also be moved higher up the order to number six.

Cameron Green has been ruled out of Australia's 1st Test against South Africa in Durban due to an abdominal strain, leaving Nic Maddinson &amp; Cooper Connolly in contention.

Big Blow for Australia: Cameron Green ruled out of first Test vs South Africa

Novak Djokovic won the China Open on Tuesday after his opponent Alex de Minaur retired from the final, extending an astonishing unbeaten streak in Beijing and winning the 102nd title of his career. The 39-year-old Serbian won the first set in the tie-break 7-6 (7/3) and was down a game in the second set when the Australian ended the match early.&nbsp;"I always want to visualise myself with the trophy, particularly here in Beijing," Djokovic said during the trophy ceremony. "But I was also quite aware that reality is a little bit different these days," he said, adding that it had been a challenging year with "physical and health issues".&nbsp;"I was just trying to find the good feeling on the court," he said.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-brief-gauff-online-racism-china-open-sinner-season-over-knee-injury-1791282982255">Tennis Brief: Gauff calls out online racism after China Open video review; Sinner sidelined for season with knee injury</a>&nbsp;The first set was a physical battle that lasted more than one hour, and both men needed medical timeouts before the second. De Minaur, the world number nine, won the first game of the second set before retiring. It was not immediately clear why de Minaur left the match, but he walked back onto the court after his medical timeout with a white wrap around his left thigh.&nbsp;"I don't feel great," de Minaur told the crowd afterwards. "I want to say sorry to the amazing fans that came to watch... I didn't want to finish like this," the 27-year-old added.&nbsp;De Minaur advanced to the final after his opponent Hubert Hurkacz retired injured from their semi-final on Monday, while Djokovic moved through when Daniil Medvedev was disqualified for hitting a fan with a ball.&nbsp;With the win, Djokovic extended a perfect record to 34 wins in as many matches for his seventh title in the Chinese capital -- his first since 2015. He put on a valiant show to lift the trophy, ousting top seed Alexander Zverev in the quarter-final and coming back to defeat home hopeful Bu Yunchaokete in a demanding three sets.&nbsp;Djokovic, a 24-time Grand Slam champion, will finish the season with a title for the 21st consecutive year.

Novak Djokovic clinched his 102nd career title and 7th China Open trophy after Alex de Minaur retired injured during the Beijing final.

Novak Djokovic won the China Open on Tuesday after his opponent Alex de Minaur retired from the final, extending an astonishing unbeaten streak in Beijing and winning the 102nd title of his career. The 39-year-old Serbian won the first set in the tie-break 7-6 (7/3) and was down a game in the second set when the Australian ended the match early. "I always want to visualise myself with the trophy, particularly here in Beijing," Djokovic said during the trophy ceremony. "But I was also quite aware that reality is a little bit different these days," he said, adding that it had been a challenging year with "physical and health issues". "I was just trying to find the good feeling on the court," he said. Also read| Tennis Brief: Gauff calls out online racism after China Open video review; Sinner sidelined for season with knee injury The first set was a physical battle that lasted more than one hour, and both men needed medical timeouts before the second. De Minaur, the world number nine, won the first game of the second set before retiring. It was not immediately clear why de Minaur left the match, but he walked back onto the court after his medical timeout with a white wrap around his left thigh. "I don't feel great," de Minaur told the crowd afterwards. "I want to say sorry to the amazing fans that came to watch... I didn't want to finish like this," the 27-year-old added. De Minaur advanced to the final after his opponent Hubert Hurkacz retired injured from their semi-final on Monday, while Djokovic moved through when Daniil Medvedev was disqualified for hitting a fan with a ball. With the win, Djokovic extended a perfect record to 34 wins in as many matches for his seventh title in the Chinese capital -- his first since 2015. He put on a valiant show to lift the trophy, ousting top seed Alexander Zverev in the quarter-final and coming back to defeat home hopeful Bu Yunchaokete in a demanding three sets. Djokovic, a 24-time Grand Slam champion, will finish the season with a title for the 21st consecutive year.

Novak Djokovic clinched his 102nd career title and 7th China Open trophy after Alex de Minaur retired injured during the Beijing final.

Novak Djokovic claims China Open title as De Minaur retires in final

India is among seven countries that want to host the 2036 Summer Olympic Games, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) confirmed in a public statement on Tuesday (Oct. 6). Besides India, Qatar and South Africa are also among the confirmed bidders, alongside Germany, Hungary, Turkey, and South Korea. Meanwhile, other countries have until October 31, 2026, to declare their interest in hosting the Olympic Games 10 years later.&nbsp;In March 2027, the IOC Executive Board will draw up a shortlist of the interested countries, which will then enter dialogue with the Olympic body. The governing body said that the host of the 2036 Olympic Games will be assessed on several factors, including funding, political and public support.&nbsp;"Wherever the Games take place, one thing must never change: athletes have to be at the heart of everything we do," IOC President Kirsty Coventry said in a statement. "That is why, for every future host, delivering the best possible experience for the athletes must always be the starting point," the Zimbabwean former swimmer added.<h2>Ahmedabad Positioned as Potential Host City</h2>India had earlier stated its intention to host the Summer Games for the first time, with Ahmedabad likely to play the host city. Having successfully hosted a multilateral event at the Commonwealth Games in 2010, India’s Ahmedabad will next host its 2030 edition, seen as a major rehearsal for the Olympic Games. The city is also home to the world’s largest cricket stadium, the Narendra Modi Stadium.&nbsp;Neither South Africa (host of the 2010 FIFA World Cup and 1995 Rugby World Cup) nor Qatar (host of the 2022 FIFA World Cup) has ever staged an Olympic Games.&nbsp;The German National Olympic Committee voted last month to select Munich as its candidate city for the Games that will take place a century after the infamous 1936 Berlin Olympics, which were overseen by the Nazi regime. Elsewhere, Turkish Olympic authorities hope to do one better than in the bidding for the 2020 Summer Olympics when Istanbul came second to Tokyo.&nbsp;Los Angeles will host the 2028 Summer Olympics, and the Australian city of Brisbane has been awarded the 2032 edition.&nbsp;(With inputs from AFP)

The IOC has confirmed India is among seven nations bidding to host the 2036 Summer Olympics, with Ahmedabad lined up as the proposed host city.

India is among seven countries that want to host the 2036 Summer Olympic Games, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) confirmed in a public statement on Tuesday (Oct. 6). Besides India, Qatar and South Africa are also among the confirmed bidders, alongside Germany, Hungary, Turkey, and South Korea. Meanwhile, other countries have until October 31, 2026, to declare their interest in hosting the Olympic Games 10 years later. In March 2027, the IOC Executive Board will draw up a shortlist of the interested countries, which will then enter dialogue with the Olympic body. The governing body said that the host of the 2036 Olympic Games will be assessed on several factors, including funding, political and public support. "Wherever the Games take place, one thing must never change: athletes have to be at the heart of everything we do," IOC President Kirsty Coventry said in a statement. "That is why, for every future host, delivering the best possible experience for the athletes must always be the starting point," the Zimbabwean former swimmer added. Ahmedabad Positioned as Potential Host City India had earlier stated its intention to host the Summer Games for the first time, with Ahmedabad likely to play the host city. Having successfully hosted a multilateral event at the Commonwealth Games in 2010, India’s Ahmedabad will next host its 2030 edition, seen as a major rehearsal for the Olympic Games. The city is also home to the world’s largest cricket stadium, the Narendra Modi Stadium. Neither South Africa (host of the 2010 FIFA World Cup and 1995 Rugby World Cup) nor Qatar (host of the 2022 FIFA World Cup) has ever staged an Olympic Games. The German National Olympic Committee voted last month to select Munich as its candidate city for the Games that will take place a century after the infamous 1936 Berlin Olympics, which were overseen by the Nazi regime. Elsewhere, Turkish Olympic authorities hope to do one better than in the bidding for the 2020 Summer Olympics when Istanbul came second to Tokyo. Los Angeles will host the 2028 Summer Olympics, and the Australian city of Brisbane has been awarded the 2032 edition. (With inputs from AFP)

The IOC has confirmed India is among seven nations bidding to host the 2036 Summer Olympics, with Ahmedabad lined up as the proposed host city.

India is among seven bidders for 2036 Olympics, IOC confirms

Anticipation builds as the BCCI men’s selection committee prepares to announce India’s squads for the upcoming New Zealand tour, with selectors likely to pick nearly 60 players across four squads: T20I, ODI, Test and ‘A’. India will play five T20Is, five ODIs and two Tests, alongside three unofficial ‘A’ games, starting October 22.&nbsp;While the T20Is will coincide with the ‘A’ matches, the Pragyan Ojha-led selection committee faces a delicate task of balancing workload. As a result, the board is keen to give Test regulars more game time through ‘A’ games ahead of the two Tests, which begin on November 19.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pragyan-ojha-chair-selection-meeting-india-squads-new-zealand-series-1791211931544">Pragyan Ojha to chair New Zealand series selection meet; squads expected in next 48 hours</a>&nbsp;A Times of India (TOI) report claims India’s T20I captain Shreyas Iyer could lead the ODI team in the final two One-Dayers. Key Test starters—including ODI skipper Shubman Gill, KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan, Ravindra Jadeja, and Jasprit Bumrah—are expected to miss the last leg of the ODI series to feature in the final shadow match before red-ball action begins in Wellington.&nbsp;Moreover, the Test squad could also feature 16 or 17 players, as the selectors want more pacers at their disposal, given the conditions and India’s urgency to climb the 2025-27 WTC points table with twin wins in New Zealand. Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Gurnoor Brar, Akash Deep and Prasidh Krishna are currently in the mix, with Auqib Nabi, Mukesh Kumar and Anshul Kamboj competing for the sixth pace-bowling spot. All three are also likely to feature in India ‘A’ matches and could stay back as standbys to help the Test squad with preparations.<h3>Red-Ball Cricket a Priority for BCCI Selectors</h3>The BCCI men’s selection committee will convene on either Tuesday or Wednesday to finalise the four squads for the New Zealand tour, which begins with a five-match T20I series. While India’s white-ball cricket is not what the selection committee is worried about, the major focus remains on providing more red-ball exposure to the Test-bound players for the crucial two-match series — part of the current 2025-27 WTC cycle.&nbsp;Lack of clarity on Prasidh Krishna’s injury status postponed the meeting on Monday, with the selectors likely to have his update ready before announcing the squads. Besides, Rishabh Pant would be a sure starter for the two Tests, with Dhruv Jurel likely to be picked as his backup.&nbsp;The T20I series runs from October 22 to November 1, with five ODIs scheduled from November 4 to November 15. Wellington (Nov 19-23) and Christchurch (Nov 27-Dec 1) will host two Tests.

BCCI selectors are set to pick nearly 60 players across four squads for the New Zealand tour, with Shreyas Iyer likely to lead in the last two ODIs.

Anticipation builds as the BCCI men’s selection committee prepares to announce India’s squads for the upcoming New Zealand tour, with selectors likely to pick nearly 60 players across four squads: T20I, ODI, Test and ‘A’. India will play five T20Is, five ODIs and two Tests, alongside three unofficial ‘A’ games, starting October 22. While the T20Is will coincide with the ‘A’ matches, the Pragyan Ojha-led selection committee faces a delicate task of balancing workload. As a result, the board is keen to give Test regulars more game time through ‘A’ games ahead of the two Tests, which begin on November 19. Also read| Pragyan Ojha to chair New Zealand series selection meet; squads expected in next 48 hours A Times of India (TOI) report claims India’s T20I captain Shreyas Iyer could lead the ODI team in the final two One-Dayers. Key Test starters—including ODI skipper Shubman Gill, KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan, Ravindra Jadeja, and Jasprit Bumrah—are expected to miss the last leg of the ODI series to feature in the final shadow match before red-ball action begins in Wellington. Moreover, the Test squad could also feature 16 or 17 players, as the selectors want more pacers at their disposal, given the conditions and India’s urgency to climb the 2025-27 WTC points table with twin wins in New Zealand. Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Gurnoor Brar, Akash Deep and Prasidh Krishna are currently in the mix, with Auqib Nabi, Mukesh Kumar and Anshul Kamboj competing for the sixth pace-bowling spot. All three are also likely to feature in India ‘A’ matches and could stay back as standbys to help the Test squad with preparations. Red-Ball Cricket a Priority for BCCI Selectors The BCCI men’s selection committee will convene on either Tuesday or Wednesday to finalise the four squads for the New Zealand tour, which begins with a five-match T20I series. While India’s white-ball cricket is not what the selection committee is worried about, the major focus remains on providing more red-ball exposure to the Test-bound players for the crucial two-match series — part of the current 2025-27 WTC cycle. Lack of clarity on Prasidh Krishna’s injury status postponed the meeting on Monday, with the selectors likely to have his update ready before announcing the squads. Besides, Rishabh Pant would be a sure starter for the two Tests, with Dhruv Jurel likely to be picked as his backup. The T20I series runs from October 22 to November 1, with five ODIs scheduled from November 4 to November 15. Wellington (Nov 19-23) and Christchurch (Nov 27-Dec 1) will host two Tests.

BCCI selectors are set to pick nearly 60 players across four squads for the New Zealand tour, with Shreyas Iyer likely to lead in the last two ODIs.

IND vs NZ 2026: Iyer could lead India in last 2 ODIs to allow Test specialists extra prep time

South Africa will not rush ace seamer Kagiso Rabada’s return to the Test side. Batting coach Ashwell Prince said the selectors and management will decide on his participation in the series opener against Australia ‘as late as possible’. Rabada hasn’t played any cricket since IPL 2026, which ended in May, and later suffered a hamstring injury during winter training, ruling him out of the three-match ODI series last month. The right-arm pacer was earlier picked in the 18-man preliminary squad for the three Tests, and featured in a two-day intra-squad game on Sunday and Monday.&nbsp;"He (Rabada) came through quite nicely and bowled really well," Prince said in Durban, where the series gets underway on Friday (Oct 9). "He'll continue to be involved in training over the next few days leading up to the match."&nbsp;Although South Africa had earlier planned to pick a final 15 for the Test series, they ultimately retained the expanded squad to keep additional fast-bowling options on hand.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sourav-ganguly-takes-over-as-delhi-capitals-coach-in-exciting-responsibility-1791283259967">Sourav Ganguly takes over as Delhi Capitals coach in ‘exciting responsibility’</a>&nbsp;"From the bowler's point of view, domestically there's T20 cricket going on at the moment, so we feel that they'll be better served here, where they will bowl more red balls in training," Prince said. “And if they're not in the Test lineup, then they can continue bowling during the Test match in the nets, just to get the loads up.”<h2>Lack of Red-Ball Cricket Makes Rabada’s Case Trickier</h2>Kagiso Rabada hasn’t played any Test cricket since touring Pakistan in October last year, later missing the two-Test away series against India with a rib injury. He also hasn’t played any first-class cricket in the meantime. All indications suggest that South Africa would want him 100% ready before unleashing him in the Durban Test against the mighty Aussies.&nbsp;"Fair to say that he's obviously not going to be at 100% straight away, but he is looking good," Prince said. "He will train with the squad for the rest of the week, and we will leave a call to be made as late as possible."&nbsp;For the first time in eight years, Australia has toured South Africa for a Test series, having last toured in 2018, when the infamous Sandpapergate scandal occurred. The two teams will also meet for the first time in Tests since their 2025 WTC Final face-off, where the Proteas stood tall, winning their first ICC title since 1998.&nbsp;South Africa are currently second on the 2025-2027 WTC points table, with 10 Tests to play in the ongoing cycle, including eight at home between now and January 2027 and two away in Sri Lanka.

South Africa will make a late call on Kagiso Rabada's fitness for the 1st Test against Australia in Durban as the pacer completes his injury recovery.

South Africa will not rush ace seamer Kagiso Rabada’s return to the Test side. Batting coach Ashwell Prince said the selectors and management will decide on his participation in the series opener against Australia ‘as late as possible’. Rabada hasn’t played any cricket since IPL 2026, which ended in May, and later suffered a hamstring injury during winter training, ruling him out of the three-match ODI series last month. The right-arm pacer was earlier picked in the 18-man preliminary squad for the three Tests, and featured in a two-day intra-squad game on Sunday and Monday. "He (Rabada) came through quite nicely and bowled really well," Prince said in Durban, where the series gets underway on Friday (Oct 9). "He'll continue to be involved in training over the next few days leading up to the match." Although South Africa had earlier planned to pick a final 15 for the Test series, they ultimately retained the expanded squad to keep additional fast-bowling options on hand. Also read| Sourav Ganguly takes over as Delhi Capitals coach in ‘exciting responsibility’ "From the bowler's point of view, domestically there's T20 cricket going on at the moment, so we feel that they'll be better served here, where they will bowl more red balls in training," Prince said. “And if they're not in the Test lineup, then they can continue bowling during the Test match in the nets, just to get the loads up.” Lack of Red-Ball Cricket Makes Rabada’s Case Trickier Kagiso Rabada hasn’t played any Test cricket since touring Pakistan in October last year, later missing the two-Test away series against India with a rib injury. He also hasn’t played any first-class cricket in the meantime. All indications suggest that South Africa would want him 100% ready before unleashing him in the Durban Test against the mighty Aussies. "Fair to say that he's obviously not going to be at 100% straight away, but he is looking good," Prince said. "He will train with the squad for the rest of the week, and we will leave a call to be made as late as possible." For the first time in eight years, Australia has toured South Africa for a Test series, having last toured in 2018, when the infamous Sandpapergate scandal occurred. The two teams will also meet for the first time in Tests since their 2025 WTC Final face-off, where the Proteas stood tall, winning their first ICC title since 1998. South Africa are currently second on the 2025-2027 WTC points table, with 10 Tests to play in the ongoing cycle, including eight at home between now and January 2027 and two away in Sri Lanka.

South Africa will make a late call on Kagiso Rabada's fitness for the 1st Test against Australia in Durban as the pacer completes his injury recovery.

SA vs AUS 2026: South Africa to take call on Rabada’s availability for first Test ‘as late as possible’

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Iyer could lead India in last 2 ODIs to allow Test specialists extra prep time

SA to take call on Rabada’s availability for first Test ‘as late as possible’