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Mohammed Siraj is one of India's premier fast bowlers now, and he was leading the pace attack on the recent Test tour of Sri Lanka. The pacer, however, was out of sync for the most part and said it was because of the two-month break he got before the series. Siraj's trouble with rhythm continued in the first innings of the Duleep Trophy final, in which he turned up for South Zone against East Zone, conceding 140 runs in 25 overs at 5.60 per over as East Zone piled up a match-winning 708 runs.<h2>Siraj says long break messed up rhythm</h2>At a time when frequent injuries to Indian players have brought workload management into the spotlight, Siraj's comments about 'getting too much break' are a bit interesting."I'm purely a rhythm bowler. If I'm not in sync, I simply can't explode through the crease. That was the struggle in Sri Lanka—my run-up felt disjointed. Some strides were too short, others were too long, and that broke my flow and cost me pace," said the pacer after the final day of the Duleep Trophy final in sweltering Chennai.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/duleep-trophy-final-kishan-leads-east-zone-to-first-title-in-13-years-with-350-runs-vs-south-zone-1789037623806">Duleep Trophy Final: Kishan leads East Zone to first title in 13 years</a>"Every bowler's body is different, but mine doesn't handle long breaks well. A short breather is fine, but in my 10-year career, I had never taken two full months off. I was working out in the gym and bowling occasionally, but no amount of practice can replicate match intensity. It was a new experience, but a valuable learning curve for me going forward," he added.<h2>What's next for India and Siraj?</h2>India next play a three-match T20I series against Afghanistan from September 13 in New Delhi, with the next two matches scheduled for Sep 15 and 17. The Men in Blue will then go to Japan for the 2026 Asian Games while hosting West Indies for an ODI series at home during the same period. Siraj isn't part of India's squad for either the Afghanistan series or the Asian Games.

Mohammed Siraj admitted a 2-month break disrupted his rhythm, leading to struggles in Sri Lanka and 0/140 in the Duleep Trophy final. He is rested for India's upcoming T20I series vs Afghanistan.

Mohammed Siraj is one of India's premier fast bowlers now, and he was leading the pace attack on the recent Test tour of Sri Lanka. The pacer, however, was out of sync for the most part and said it was because of the two-month break he got before the series. Siraj's trouble with rhythm continued in the first innings of the Duleep Trophy final, in which he turned up for South Zone against East Zone, conceding 140 runs in 25 overs at 5.60 per over as East Zone piled up a match-winning 708 runs. Siraj says long break messed up rhythm At a time when frequent injuries to Indian players have brought workload management into the spotlight, Siraj's comments about 'getting too much break' are a bit interesting. "I'm purely a rhythm bowler. If I'm not in sync, I simply can't explode through the crease. That was the struggle in Sri Lanka—my run-up felt disjointed. Some strides were too short, others were too long, and that broke my flow and cost me pace," said the pacer after the final day of the Duleep Trophy final in sweltering Chennai. Also Read - Duleep Trophy Final: Kishan leads East Zone to first title in 13 years "Every bowler's body is different, but mine doesn't handle long breaks well. A short breather is fine, but in my 10-year career, I had never taken two full months off. I was working out in the gym and bowling occasionally, but no amount of practice can replicate match intensity. It was a new experience, but a valuable learning curve for me going forward," he added. What's next for India and Siraj? India next play a three-match T20I series against Afghanistan from September 13 in New Delhi, with the next two matches scheduled for Sep 15 and 17. The Men in Blue will then go to Japan for the 2026 Asian Games while hosting West Indies for an ODI series at home during the same period. Siraj isn't part of India's squad for either the Afghanistan series or the Asian Games.

Mohammed Siraj admitted a 2-month break disrupted his rhythm, leading to struggles in Sri Lanka and 0/140 in the Duleep Trophy final. He is rested for India's upcoming T20I series vs Afghanistan.

India pacer Siraj says his body 'doesn't handle long breaks well'

India pacer Mohammed Shami may be past 36, but the bowler—who last played for India in the Champions Trophy 2025 final and last played red-ball cricket in the WTC 2023 finalisn't letting go of his motivation. In his 100th first-class game, he helped East Zone win the Duleep Trophy after 13 years, taking 2/42 in the only innings East Zone bowled, dismissing Shaik Rasheed and R Smaran. It is not completely unlikely that Shami will feature for India again, but the road ahead seems difficult, and the bowler isn't shy of the challenge.<h2>Shami reveals what keeps him motivated</h2>After the final day of the Duleep Trophy final (Sep 10), held at Chepauk in Chennai, Shami revealed what keeps him motivated, saying: "There are plenty of reasons to stay motivated if you look for them. At this level, if you aren't self-motivated, your approach is wrong. No matter what stage you're playing at, your eyes must always be set on the next level.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/women-s-asia-cup-t20-2026-india-march-into-final-with-40-run-win-over-bangladesh-1789094522508">Women's Asia Cup T20 2026: India march into final with 40-run win over Bangladesh</a>"When you wear that crest on your chest, the level of cricket doesn't matter. If you play for the badge, that hunger will naturally show. Your willingness to fight only grows when you play with that pride. My mindset is simple: whichever level I get an opportunity to play, I want to make it count and fulfil my responsibility toward the team," he added.<h2>Shami's career in numbers</h2>Shami has played 64 Tests for India after making his debut in 2013 and has taken 229 wickets - the sixth-most for an Indian pacer behind Kapil Dev (434), Ishant Sharma (311), Zaheer Khan (311), Javagal Srinath (236), and Jasprit Bumrah (234). In ODIs, he made his debut in 2013 against Pakistan in New Delhi and has played 108 matches for 206 wickets - the fifth-most for an Indian pacer behind Srinath (315), Ajit Agarkar (288), Zaheer (269), and Kapil (253). In T20Is, Shami has donned the Indian jersey 25 times and has taken 27 wickets.

Mohammed Shami took 2/42 in his 100th First-Class match to help East Zone win the Duleep Trophy. The 36-year-old pacer (229 Test, 206 ODI wickets) remains motivated to play for India again.

India pacer Mohammed Shami may be past 36, but the bowler—who last played for India in the Champions Trophy 2025 final and last played red-ball cricket in the WTC 2023 finalisn't letting go of his motivation. In his 100th first-class game, he helped East Zone win the Duleep Trophy after 13 years, taking 2/42 in the only innings East Zone bowled, dismissing Shaik Rasheed and R Smaran. It is not completely unlikely that Shami will feature for India again, but the road ahead seems difficult, and the bowler isn't shy of the challenge. Shami reveals what keeps him motivated After the final day of the Duleep Trophy final (Sep 10), held at Chepauk in Chennai, Shami revealed what keeps him motivated, saying: "There are plenty of reasons to stay motivated if you look for them. At this level, if you aren't self-motivated, your approach is wrong. No matter what stage you're playing at, your eyes must always be set on the next level. Also Read - Women's Asia Cup T20 2026: India march into final with 40-run win over Bangladesh "When you wear that crest on your chest, the level of cricket doesn't matter. If you play for the badge, that hunger will naturally show. Your willingness to fight only grows when you play with that pride. My mindset is simple: whichever level I get an opportunity to play, I want to make it count and fulfil my responsibility toward the team," he added. Shami's career in numbers Shami has played 64 Tests for India after making his debut in 2013 and has taken 229 wickets - the sixth-most for an Indian pacer behind Kapil Dev (434), Ishant Sharma (311), Zaheer Khan (311), Javagal Srinath (236), and Jasprit Bumrah (234). In ODIs, he made his debut in 2013 against Pakistan in New Delhi and has played 108 matches for 206 wickets - the fifth-most for an Indian pacer behind Srinath (315), Ajit Agarkar (288), Zaheer (269), and Kapil (253). In T20Is, Shami has donned the Indian jersey 25 times and has taken 27 wickets.

Mohammed Shami took 2/42 in his 100th First-Class match to help East Zone win the Duleep Trophy. The 36-year-old pacer (229 Test, 206 ODI wickets) remains motivated to play for India again.

India pacer Shami, 36, reveals what keeps him motivated to continue to play

India Women marched into the 2026 Women's T20 Asia Cup final on Thursday (Sep 10) after beating Bangladesh Women by 40 runs in the first semi-final in Dubai, UAE. India, who have won the Women's Asia Cup seven times, will now face the winner of Sri Lanka vs Pakistan in the final on Sunday (Sep 13). India's opener Shafali Verma was named Player of the Match (POTM) for her 40-ball 64 as India posted 149/6 in 20 overs. Deepti Sharma then led the charge in bowling with 3/26 as India restricted Bangladesh to 109/7 in 20 overs.<h2>India march into Women's T20 Asia Cup 2026 final</h2>Batting first after losing the toss, India lost dashing opener Smriti Mandhana (2) at the completion of the second over. Pratika Rawal (20) then added 50 runs for the second wicket with Shafali. Skipper Harmanpreet Kaur was next and added 23 runs for the third wicket before Verma was finally out after being given a life four times (on 6, 11, 50, and 56). Wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh (21 off 16) then added 36 runs for the fourth wicket with skipper Harmanpreet, and Deepti played a handy knock of 13 off 6 as India posted 149, with Kaur remaining 24 not out.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/duleep-trophy-final-kishan-leads-east-zone-to-first-title-in-13-years-with-350-runs-vs-south-zone-1789037623806">Duleep Trophy Final: Kishan leads East Zone to first title in 13 years</a>Bangladesh had a cautious start, adding 66 runs for the first two wickets in 13.3 overs. They lost their next three wickets for 17 runs in 2.2 overs. Bangladesh eventually managed just 109 runs and lost by 40 runs to bow out of the tournament.<h2>What captains said after the match?</h2>India skipper Kaur praised the all-round performance and said at the post-match presentation: "Happy with the way things are going. Happy with the way our batting and bowling is going. There was a value to the good balls. If you were giving revvs, then you were giving value to the balls. Spinners from both teams bowled well today, batters had it hard, spinners used the pitch really well."Bangladesh skipper Nigar Sultana, however, acknowledged not bowling well and said: "We didn't bowl well, unlike the last three games. We fielded well in other games, but not today; we put down chances. That was the pressure, I guess, just a bad day for the whole team. We really wanted to restrict them to a total we could chase; our batting powerplay was not good either."

India Women beat Bangladesh Women by 40 runs in the T20 Asia Cup semi-final in Dubai. Shafali Verma's 64 (40) and Deepti Sharma's 3/26 powered India to 149/6 before restricting Bangladesh to 109/7.

India Women marched into the 2026 Women's T20 Asia Cup final on Thursday (Sep 10) after beating Bangladesh Women by 40 runs in the first semi-final in Dubai, UAE. India, who have won the Women's Asia Cup seven times, will now face the winner of Sri Lanka vs Pakistan in the final on Sunday (Sep 13). India's opener Shafali Verma was named Player of the Match (POTM) for her 40-ball 64 as India posted 149/6 in 20 overs. Deepti Sharma then led the charge in bowling with 3/26 as India restricted Bangladesh to 109/7 in 20 overs. India march into Women's T20 Asia Cup 2026 final Batting first after losing the toss, India lost dashing opener Smriti Mandhana (2) at the completion of the second over. Pratika Rawal (20) then added 50 runs for the second wicket with Shafali. Skipper Harmanpreet Kaur was next and added 23 runs for the third wicket before Verma was finally out after being given a life four times (on 6, 11, 50, and 56). Wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh (21 off 16) then added 36 runs for the fourth wicket with skipper Harmanpreet, and Deepti played a handy knock of 13 off 6 as India posted 149, with Kaur remaining 24 not out. Also Read - Duleep Trophy Final: Kishan leads East Zone to first title in 13 years Bangladesh had a cautious start, adding 66 runs for the first two wickets in 13.3 overs. They lost their next three wickets for 17 runs in 2.2 overs. Bangladesh eventually managed just 109 runs and lost by 40 runs to bow out of the tournament. What captains said after the match? India skipper Kaur praised the all-round performance and said at the post-match presentation: "Happy with the way things are going. Happy with the way our batting and bowling is going. There was a value to the good balls. If you were giving revvs, then you were giving value to the balls. Spinners from both teams bowled well today, batters had it hard, spinners used the pitch really well." Bangladesh skipper Nigar Sultana, however, acknowledged not bowling well and said: "We didn't bowl well, unlike the last three games. We fielded well in other games, but not today; we put down chances. That was the pressure, I guess, just a bad day for the whole team. We really wanted to restrict them to a total we could chase; our batting powerplay was not good either."

India Women beat Bangladesh Women by 40 runs in the T20 Asia Cup semi-final in Dubai. Shafali Verma's 64 (40) and Deepti Sharma's 3/26 powered India to 149/6 before restricting Bangladesh to 109/7.

Women's Asia Cup T20 2026: India march into final with 40-run win over Bangladesh

East Zone finally won their first Duleep Trophy title in 13 years (the premier red-ball tournament in Indian domestic cricket), beating South Zone on the basis of a first-innings lead. The final, which ended in a draw on Day 5 (Sep 10), saw more than 1,300 runs scored at Chepauk in Chennai, more than 1,000 of which were scored by East Zone. Ishan Kishan, the winning captain, was named Player of the Match for his 270 in the first innings. South Zone captain Tilak Varma was named Player of the Series for his 266 runs in three innings across two matches at an average of 266.00, including two fifties (one of which was 99) and a hundred.<h2>East Zone dominates from start to finish</h2>After piling up 708 runs in the first innings, East Zone declared their second innings at 388/7, which resulted in a draw as both teams shook hands. For East Zone, MD Kounain Quraishi remained 116 not out in the second innings, while skipper Kishan added 80 to take his match total to 350. Apart from them, Anukul Roy (64) and Shikhar Mohan (52) also contributed fifties, while Kumar Kushagra chipped in with 46.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/don-t-deserve-to-play-shakeel-calls-out-pak-batting-after-another-sorry-display-in-england-1789025396312">'Don't deserve to play': Shakeel on Pak batting after another sorry display</a>South Zone, which managed 336 runs in the first innings on the back of captain Tilak Varma's 99, was never in the hunt to overtake East Zone's 708, as Varma acknowledged in his post-match comments."The first day we were doing better, but when they scored 708, it was slightly tough chasing that. Props to their batters. We didn't bowl that great, honestly. Honestly, we were just thinking of batting on for three days, and we tried our best to score 700... Credit goes to East Zone, they have totally outplayed us," he said.Kishan, on the other hand, was chuffed with his team's performance as well as his own, saying: "To be honest, it's more about being one unit. We did that as a group, we won this title as a group, and everyone was taking care of each other. [On my role as captain], I think I've been a good leader, but the journey doesn't end here; when you lead a side, there are always mistakes happening... I think it was more about reading the situation, taking care of each other, and getting into the zone where I was. It's a good transformation for me: I've been calmer, I've had more hunger, and you want to lead the team from the front."

East Zone won the Duleep Trophy on a first-innings lead after a drawn final vs South Zone. Ishan Kishan (270 & 80) was Player of the Match, while South Zone skipper Tilak Varma was Player of the Series.

East Zone finally won their first Duleep Trophy title in 13 years (the premier red-ball tournament in Indian domestic cricket), beating South Zone on the basis of a first-innings lead. The final, which ended in a draw on Day 5 (Sep 10), saw more than 1,300 runs scored at Chepauk in Chennai, more than 1,000 of which were scored by East Zone. Ishan Kishan, the winning captain, was named Player of the Match for his 270 in the first innings. South Zone captain Tilak Varma was named Player of the Series for his 266 runs in three innings across two matches at an average of 266.00, including two fifties (one of which was 99) and a hundred. East Zone dominates from start to finish After piling up 708 runs in the first innings, East Zone declared their second innings at 388/7, which resulted in a draw as both teams shook hands. For East Zone, MD Kounain Quraishi remained 116 not out in the second innings, while skipper Kishan added 80 to take his match total to 350. Apart from them, Anukul Roy (64) and Shikhar Mohan (52) also contributed fifties, while Kumar Kushagra chipped in with 46. Also Read - 'Don't deserve to play': Shakeel on Pak batting after another sorry display South Zone, which managed 336 runs in the first innings on the back of captain Tilak Varma's 99, was never in the hunt to overtake East Zone's 708, as Varma acknowledged in his post-match comments. "The first day we were doing better, but when they scored 708, it was slightly tough chasing that. Props to their batters. We didn't bowl that great, honestly. Honestly, we were just thinking of batting on for three days, and we tried our best to score 700... Credit goes to East Zone, they have totally outplayed us," he said. Kishan, on the other hand, was chuffed with his team's performance as well as his own, saying: "To be honest, it's more about being one unit. We did that as a group, we won this title as a group, and everyone was taking care of each other. [On my role as captain], I think I've been a good leader, but the journey doesn't end here; when you lead a side, there are always mistakes happening... I think it was more about reading the situation, taking care of each other, and getting into the zone where I was. It's a good transformation for me: I've been calmer, I've had more hunger, and you want to lead the team from the front."

East Zone won the Duleep Trophy on a first-innings lead after a drawn final vs South Zone. Ishan Kishan (270 &amp; 80) was Player of the Match, while South Zone skipper Tilak Varma was Player of the Series.

Duleep Trophy Final: Kishan leads East Zone to first title in 13 years with 350 runs vs South Zone

Pakistan made seven changes to the squad after the 194-run loss at Lord's against England and four changes to their playing XI for the third and final Test at Edgbaston in a series they were already trailing 0-2. The changes, however, didn't pay off for Pakistan as the visitors were bowled out for 133 in the first innings - their second lowest team total on the tour. Pakistan batter Saud Shakeel, who top-scored with 43 off 47, called the performance 'depressing' as the batters continued to make the same mistakes and failed to build partnerships. After Shakeel, bowler Mohammad Abbas, who came in at No. 10, was the second-highest scorer with 21 - one more than England's 20 extras.<h2>Shakeel calls out Pak batting after another failure</h2>It was never going to be easy for Pakistan under the overcast Birmingham sky after they lost the toss and were asked to bat first. They were 26/4 inside 10 overs, and by the time the team score reached 100 at lunch, seven Pakistani batters were already out. The highest partnership of 26 runs came for the 10th wicket - highlighting their top-order struggles.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/south-africa-batter-jordan-hermann-hits-highest-individual-score-on-odi-debut-1789019503936">SA batter Hermann hits highest individual score on ODI debut</a>"The toss isn't in our hands, but we lost it and batted first, and the overcast conditions favoured England there. That was an opportunity to strike up a partnership because the pitch improved as the day went on. With the new ball, even England's top order struggled, so it was important to see off the new ball," Shakeel said after the day's play."It's depressing, we're making the same mistakes as a batting unit. We're getting out in bunches and there were lots of soft dismissals today. We're trying, but yes it's frustrating that we keep making the same mistakes. I don't think it's a confidence issue. If you don't have the confidence to play at this level, then you don't deserve to play here. But in difficult conditions, poor form can be quite hard to break out of."<h2>England get ahead on 14-wicket Day 1 at Edgbaston</h2>After bowling Pakistan out, England faced early troubles as well, with their first three wickets adding just 39 runs. Emilio Gay (60) and Harry Brook (52 not out) then added 104 runs for the fourth wicket to take England into the lead. Before the end of play, England had scored 156/4, with Brook still batting alongside Dan Lawrence (5).

Pakistan were bowled out for 133 on Day 1 of the third Test against England at Edgbaston. Saud Shakeel top-scored with 43, calling the performance "depressing." England ended the day at 156/4.

Pakistan made seven changes to the squad after the 194-run loss at Lord's against England and four changes to their playing XI for the third and final Test at Edgbaston in a series they were already trailing 0-2. The changes, however, didn't pay off for Pakistan as the visitors were bowled out for 133 in the first innings - their second lowest team total on the tour. Pakistan batter Saud Shakeel, who top-scored with 43 off 47, called the performance 'depressing' as the batters continued to make the same mistakes and failed to build partnerships. After Shakeel, bowler Mohammad Abbas, who came in at No. 10, was the second-highest scorer with 21 - one more than England's 20 extras. Shakeel calls out Pak batting after another failure It was never going to be easy for Pakistan under the overcast Birmingham sky after they lost the toss and were asked to bat first. They were 26/4 inside 10 overs, and by the time the team score reached 100 at lunch, seven Pakistani batters were already out. The highest partnership of 26 runs came for the 10th wicket - highlighting their top-order struggles. Also Read - SA batter Hermann hits highest individual score on ODI debut "The toss isn't in our hands, but we lost it and batted first, and the overcast conditions favoured England there. That was an opportunity to strike up a partnership because the pitch improved as the day went on. With the new ball, even England's top order struggled, so it was important to see off the new ball," Shakeel said after the day's play. "It's depressing, we're making the same mistakes as a batting unit. We're getting out in bunches and there were lots of soft dismissals today. We're trying, but yes it's frustrating that we keep making the same mistakes. I don't think it's a confidence issue. If you don't have the confidence to play at this level, then you don't deserve to play here. But in difficult conditions, poor form can be quite hard to break out of." England get ahead on 14-wicket Day 1 at Edgbaston After bowling Pakistan out, England faced early troubles as well, with their first three wickets adding just 39 runs. Emilio Gay (60) and Harry Brook (52 not out) then added 104 runs for the fourth wicket to take England into the lead. Before the end of play, England had scored 156/4, with Brook still batting alongside Dan Lawrence (5).

Pakistan were bowled out for 133 on Day 1 of the third Test against England at Edgbaston. Saud Shakeel top-scored with 43, calling the performance "depressing." England ended the day at 156/4.

'Don't deserve to play': Shakeel calls out Pak batting after another sorry display in England

South Africa batter Jordan Hermann made his ODI debut on Wednesday (Sep 9) against Namibia in Windhoek and instantly got his name into the history books. Opening the batting, Hermann scored 150 off 126 balls, hitting 17 fours and three sixes in his marathon innings as South Africa posted 348/6 in 50 overs. Hermann's 150 is the joint-highest score for a player on ODI debut, equaling the record set by Matthew Breetzke, also from South Africa, who scored 150 against New Zealand in Lahore in Feb 2025. Hermann is the fifth South African batter to score a ton on ODI debut.<h2>SA batter Hermann enters record books on ODI debut</h2>Hermann had a bit of luck on his side as well. He was on 30 runs when a direct hit at the non-striker's end should have ended his innings. The match, however, had no run-out referral technology / third umpire and he was given not out. The batter then went on to score an additional 120 runs to achieve the joint-highest score on ODI debut. He added 190 runs for the second wicket with Tony de Zorzi (72), and South Africa were 275/3 when he got out in the 42nd over. The match was interrupted by rain, and Namibia, who were set a revised target of 262 runs in 31 overs, could only manage 162/8, losing the match by 99 runs—essentially the runs that came after Hermann got a reprieve.Before Hermann, the South African batters who had scored a ton on ODI debut were: Breetzke (150 vs NZ in 2025), Colin Ingram (124 vs Zimbabwe in 2010), Temba Bavuma (113 vs Ireland in 2016), and Reeza Hendricks (102 vs Sri Lanka in 2018). Only 20 players have scored a ton on ODI debut in the history of 50-over cricket, and Hermann sits at the top of that list alongside Breetzke.The only Indian player on the list is KL Rahul, who scored an exact 100 on his ODI debut against Zimbabwe in 2016.<h2>What did Hermann say after scoring the joint-most runs on ODI debut?</h2>"It's incredibly special," Hermann said about his innings after the match. "I've been taught my whole life that you don't just get a hundred, you try to push it further and further. I think that was also what the conditions were asking, so not just get a hundred but push on a bit. I was trying to kill all sense of any bad patches of play that they can capitalise on. [I'm] chuffed that I could do that and get us in a winning position."

South Africa's Jordan Hermann scored 150 off 126 balls against Namibia, equaling teammate Matthew Breetzke's record for the highest score on ODI debut. SA posted 348/6 and won by 99 runs via DLS.

South Africa batter Jordan Hermann made his ODI debut on Wednesday (Sep 9) against Namibia in Windhoek and instantly got his name into the history books. Opening the batting, Hermann scored 150 off 126 balls, hitting 17 fours and three sixes in his marathon innings as South Africa posted 348/6 in 50 overs. Hermann's 150 is the joint-highest score for a player on ODI debut, equaling the record set by Matthew Breetzke, also from South Africa, who scored 150 against New Zealand in Lahore in Feb 2025. Hermann is the fifth South African batter to score a ton on ODI debut. SA batter Hermann enters record books on ODI debut Hermann had a bit of luck on his side as well. He was on 30 runs when a direct hit at the non-striker's end should have ended his innings. The match, however, had no run-out referral technology / third umpire and he was given not out. The batter then went on to score an additional 120 runs to achieve the joint-highest score on ODI debut. He added 190 runs for the second wicket with Tony de Zorzi (72), and South Africa were 275/3 when he got out in the 42nd over. The match was interrupted by rain, and Namibia, who were set a revised target of 262 runs in 31 overs, could only manage 162/8, losing the match by 99 runs—essentially the runs that came after Hermann got a reprieve. Before Hermann, the South African batters who had scored a ton on ODI debut were: Breetzke (150 vs NZ in 2025), Colin Ingram (124 vs Zimbabwe in 2010), Temba Bavuma (113 vs Ireland in 2016), and Reeza Hendricks (102 vs Sri Lanka in 2018). Only 20 players have scored a ton on ODI debut in the history of 50-over cricket, and Hermann sits at the top of that list alongside Breetzke. The only Indian player on the list is KL Rahul, who scored an exact 100 on his ODI debut against Zimbabwe in 2016. What did Hermann say after scoring the joint-most runs on ODI debut? "It's incredibly special," Hermann said about his innings after the match. "I've been taught my whole life that you don't just get a hundred, you try to push it further and further. I think that was also what the conditions were asking, so not just get a hundred but push on a bit. I was trying to kill all sense of any bad patches of play that they can capitalise on. [I'm] chuffed that I could do that and get us in a winning position."

South Africa's Jordan Hermann scored 150 off 126 balls against Namibia, equaling teammate Matthew Breetzke's record for the highest score on ODI debut. SA posted 348/6 and won by 99 runs via DLS.

South Africa batter Jordan Hermann hits highest individual score on ODI debut

Anti-immigration demonstrators in southern England massed outside a hotel where Pakistan's Under-19 cricket team were staying after mistaking them for asylum seekers, British media reported Wednesday. The incident Tuesday evening in a northern suburb of Portsmouth occurred some 48 hours after protesters disrupted the disembarkation of scores of migrants near the port city and confronted police in widely condemned scenes. Immigration and the arrival of tens of thousands of asylum seekers annually on small boats from mainland Europe has become a politically toxic issue in Britain, sparking numerous protests in recent years, some turning violent.&nbsp;Tuesday's incident came after reports online about a coach with young Asian men on board being seen at a Marriott Hotel in the Portsmouth suburb of Cosham drew protestors to the venue, according to media reports.&nbsp;A councilor from anti-immigration party Reform UK went to the scene and helped disperse the crowd after confirming the men were in fact members of Pakistan's teenage cricket team, The Guardian newspaper said.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ask-them-why-pak-skipper-babar-azam-on-pcb-s-wholesale-changes-after-lord-s-defeat-1788926295318">'Ask them why': Pak skipper Babar Azam on PCB's wholesale changes after Lord's defeat</a>&nbsp;The senior Pakistan men's side are currently involved in the third Test against England at Birmingham's Edgbaston ground.&nbsp;A spokesman for Hampshire Police -- which is responsible for the region -- said the force "were notified that a group of people were starting to congregate" near the hotel Tuesday evening.&nbsp;"Officers subsequently attended and spoke to members of the public that had gathered who were expressing concerns about a coach that had been seen in the area," the spokesman added. "The officers explained that their concerns were not correct," the spokesman said, without confirming the Pakistani cricketers were the mistaken target.&nbsp;He noted the crowd of around 30 people dispersed a short time later and no offences were identified.&nbsp;Michael Bradley, a national organiser from the Stand Up To Racism organisation, condemned the incident as showing "where the scapegoating of refugees and migrants can lead".&nbsp;"When a Pakistan U-19's team is faced by protests because it 'might' in fact be a group of migrants it means that effectively any group of black or Asian people coming into the city are being seen by the far right as a potential target," he said. "It's obvious where all this is going to end -- racist attacks and more violence."

Anti-migrant protesters gathered at a Portsmouth hotel after mistaking the Pakistan U-19 cricket team for asylum seekers. Read full details on the incident.

Anti-immigration demonstrators in southern England massed outside a hotel where Pakistan's Under-19 cricket team were staying after mistaking them for asylum seekers, British media reported Wednesday. The incident Tuesday evening in a northern suburb of Portsmouth occurred some 48 hours after protesters disrupted the disembarkation of scores of migrants near the port city and confronted police in widely condemned scenes. Immigration and the arrival of tens of thousands of asylum seekers annually on small boats from mainland Europe has become a politically toxic issue in Britain, sparking numerous protests in recent years, some turning violent. Tuesday's incident came after reports online about a coach with young Asian men on board being seen at a Marriott Hotel in the Portsmouth suburb of Cosham drew protestors to the venue, according to media reports. A councilor from anti-immigration party Reform UK went to the scene and helped disperse the crowd after confirming the men were in fact members of Pakistan's teenage cricket team, The Guardian newspaper said. Also read| 'Ask them why': Pak skipper Babar Azam on PCB's wholesale changes after Lord's defeat The senior Pakistan men's side are currently involved in the third Test against England at Birmingham's Edgbaston ground. A spokesman for Hampshire Police -- which is responsible for the region -- said the force "were notified that a group of people were starting to congregate" near the hotel Tuesday evening. "Officers subsequently attended and spoke to members of the public that had gathered who were expressing concerns about a coach that had been seen in the area," the spokesman added. "The officers explained that their concerns were not correct," the spokesman said, without confirming the Pakistani cricketers were the mistaken target. He noted the crowd of around 30 people dispersed a short time later and no offences were identified. Michael Bradley, a national organiser from the Stand Up To Racism organisation, condemned the incident as showing "where the scapegoating of refugees and migrants can lead". "When a Pakistan U-19's team is faced by protests because it 'might' in fact be a group of migrants it means that effectively any group of black or Asian people coming into the city are being seen by the far right as a potential target," he said. "It's obvious where all this is going to end -- racist attacks and more violence."

Anti-migrant protesters gathered at a Portsmouth hotel after mistaking the Pakistan U-19 cricket team for asylum seekers. Read full details on the incident.

Anti-migrant crowd mistakes Pakistan U-19 squad for asylum seekers at UK hotel

New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has opened an unused sixth-tier seating area at Eden Park in Auckland for the first time in six years for the 4th T20I against India, having last been used during a match against the Men in Blue in 2019. A surge in ticket demand for India’s tour of New Zealand later this winter forced the home board to tap the unused seating space for the crowd. &nbsp;“High demand at Eden Park has required the stadium’s sixth tier of seating to open for the first time since the 2019 India tour of New Zealand, with the upper level available for the fourth T20I against India on Friday, October 30,” said NZC in a statement. &nbsp;“The ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup in 2015 and a men’s T20I against Australia in 2018 are the only other times in recent history that the sixth tier has opened up, signalling huge anticipation for the rematch between this year’s ICC Men’s T20 World Cup finalists.”&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/joe-root-surpasses-waugh-ponting-third-most-capped-test-player-1788955580781">Joe Root surpasses Steve Waugh, Ponting to become third-most capped Test player</a> &nbsp;Over 50,000 tickets have been sold in the first week of tickets going live for the public. The NZC opened tickets for the fans on Monday after a two-week pre-sale window ‘for Cricket Nation members, Sky customers, and ANZ customers, with several matches on track to sell out, including the second T20I against India in Christchurch which sits at 75% sold out.’ &nbsp;Considering India will tour New Zealand for a full tour, including white-ball matches (ODIs and T20Is) and two Tests, NZC’s Head of Marketing Tim Ellis said that the board is ‘deep into planning for a number of events surrounding the tour and have some exciting at-game activations in the works.’ &nbsp;“Being able to open up the top level of Eden Park for the first time in years is really exciting and speaks to the swell of excitement building around the tour,” he said. “Matches at Hagley Oval (which will host the first two T20Is and the second Test) have always been well attended, but to have one of them over three-quarters sold already is quite remarkable.”

NZC opens Eden Park's sixth tier for the 4th T20I against India as ticket sales surge past 50,000 in the first week for the 2026 tour.

New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has opened an unused sixth-tier seating area at Eden Park in Auckland for the first time in six years for the 4th T20I against India, having last been used during a match against the Men in Blue in 2019. A surge in ticket demand for India’s tour of New Zealand later this winter forced the home board to tap the unused seating space for the crowd. “High demand at Eden Park has required the stadium’s sixth tier of seating to open for the first time since the 2019 India tour of New Zealand, with the upper level available for the fourth T20I against India on Friday, October 30,” said NZC in a statement. “The ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup in 2015 and a men’s T20I against Australia in 2018 are the only other times in recent history that the sixth tier has opened up, signalling huge anticipation for the rematch between this year’s ICC Men’s T20 World Cup finalists.” Also read| Joe Root surpasses Steve Waugh, Ponting to become third-most capped Test player Over 50,000 tickets have been sold in the first week of tickets going live for the public. The NZC opened tickets for the fans on Monday after a two-week pre-sale window ‘for Cricket Nation members, Sky customers, and ANZ customers, with several matches on track to sell out, including the second T20I against India in Christchurch which sits at 75% sold out.’ Considering India will tour New Zealand for a full tour, including white-ball matches (ODIs and T20Is) and two Tests, NZC’s Head of Marketing Tim Ellis said that the board is ‘deep into planning for a number of events surrounding the tour and have some exciting at-game activations in the works.’ “Being able to open up the top level of Eden Park for the first time in years is really exciting and speaks to the swell of excitement building around the tour,” he said. “Matches at Hagley Oval (which will host the first two T20Is and the second Test) have always been well attended, but to have one of them over three-quarters sold already is quite remarkable.”

NZC opens Eden Park's sixth tier for the 4th T20I against India as ticket sales surge past 50,000 in the first week for the 2026 tour.

NZC opens Auckland’s unused seating tier for India T20I amid surge in ticket demand

Ollie Robinson claimed his 100th Test wicket as Pakistan collapsed to 100/7 in the opening session on day one of the third Test at Edgbaston in Birmingham. Pakistan made several changes, naming three debutants in their playing XI for this Test, but failed to alter their fate. Beyond the fresh faces and recalled players, including opener Saim Ayub, who departed for a 10-ball duck, batting mainstays like Shan Masood, Abdullah Shafique and even captain Babar Azam departed cheaply. Lord’s Test hero for Pakistan, Saud Shakeel, however, remains the only seasoned batter to hold onto his wicket at lunch on day one. &nbsp;For the third time in this series, Robinson provided an early breakthrough with the new ball. Coming from around the wicket to the left-handers, the right-arm seamer set up Ayub before trapping him in front of the wickets for a duck. Jofra Archer removed his opening partner Azan Awais, caught at mid-wicket for nine, before Robinson claimed Shafique’s wicket for just three. Archer’s extra pace caught Masood off guard, as he top-edged one for five, with Pakistan’s scorecard reading 26/4 inside 10 overs.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/joe-root-surpasses-waugh-ponting-third-most-capped-test-player-1788955580781">Joe Root surpasses Steve Waugh, Ponting to become third-most capped Test player</a> &nbsp;Captain Babar and Shakeel tried reviving Pakistan’s batting with a brief 22-run stand for the fifth wicket, only for Josh Tongue to clean up Babar’s off stump for seven. His dismissal saw Pakistan register an unwanted record of becoming the first Test side to have its top five batters get out without entering double digits in the first innings of a Test match in England.&nbsp;WATCH Babar Azam's Wicket -

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Josh Tongue on target 🎯 Follow every ball live 👉 <a href="https://t.co/VUdUehsgT2">https://t.co/VUdUehsgT2</a> <a href="https://t.co/uzGWAoT65y">pic.twitter.com/uzGWAoT65y</a>&mdash; England Cricket (@englandcricket) <a href="https://x.com/englandcricket/status/2097648645944345063?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 9, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Shakeel was, however, impressive with his clean stroke-making but failed to get any assistance from the other end as wickets kept tumbling. By lunchtime, Pakistan had lost seven wickets for 100, with Robinson returning and Archer picking up two, and Tongue grabbing three.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">New stump please... Click here to follow the action 📲 <a href="https://t.co/VUdUehsgT2">https://t.co/VUdUehsgT2</a> <a href="https://t.co/3mhb78TFhh">pic.twitter.com/3mhb78TFhh</a>&mdash; England Cricket (@englandcricket) <a href="https://x.com/englandcricket/status/2097655611559198910?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 9, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Soon after play resumed, Robinson picked his third and Tongue his fourth by breaking Shakeel’s stumps as Pakistan’s batting continued to struggle.&nbsp;WATCH Shakeel's Dismissal -

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Josh Tongue with his fourth of the day 🤝 Click here to follow the action 📲 <a href="https://t.co/VUdUehsgT2">https://t.co/VUdUehsgT2</a> <a href="https://t.co/8jnSQI08gW">pic.twitter.com/8jnSQI08gW</a>&mdash; England Cricket (@englandcricket) <a href="https://x.com/englandcricket/status/2097673641009787206?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 9, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Ollie Robinson claims his 100th Test wicket as Pakistan collapse to 100/7 in the opening session on day one of the third Test at Edgbaston. 

Ollie Robinson claimed his 100th Test wicket as Pakistan collapsed to 100/7 in the opening session on day one of the third Test at Edgbaston in Birmingham. Pakistan made several changes, naming three debutants in their playing XI for this Test, but failed to alter their fate. Beyond the fresh faces and recalled players, including opener Saim Ayub, who departed for a 10-ball duck, batting mainstays like Shan Masood, Abdullah Shafique and even captain Babar Azam departed cheaply. Lord’s Test hero for Pakistan, Saud Shakeel, however, remains the only seasoned batter to hold onto his wicket at lunch on day one. For the third time in this series, Robinson provided an early breakthrough with the new ball. Coming from around the wicket to the left-handers, the right-arm seamer set up Ayub before trapping him in front of the wickets for a duck. Jofra Archer removed his opening partner Azan Awais, caught at mid-wicket for nine, before Robinson claimed Shafique’s wicket for just three. Archer’s extra pace caught Masood off guard, as he top-edged one for five, with Pakistan’s scorecard reading 26/4 inside 10 overs. Also read| Joe Root surpasses Steve Waugh, Ponting to become third-most capped Test player Captain Babar and Shakeel tried reviving Pakistan’s batting with a brief 22-run stand for the fifth wicket, only for Josh Tongue to clean up Babar’s off stump for seven. His dismissal saw Pakistan register an unwanted record of becoming the first Test side to have its top five batters get out without entering double digits in the first innings of a Test match in England. WATCH Babar Azam's Wicket -

Ollie Robinson claims his 100th Test wicket as Pakistan collapse to 100/7 in the opening session on day one of the third Test at Edgbaston.&nbsp;

Robinson reaches 100 Test wickets as Pakistan collapse to 100/7 in opening session at Edgbaston

England Test captain Joe Root became the third-most capped Test player in cricket history after taking the field on day one of the Edgbaston Test against Pakistan on Wednesday (Sep 9). Root surpassed former Australian captains and Test veterans Steve Waugh and Ricky Ponting – who appeared in the same number of Test matches (168) – to feature in his 169th Test match and counting. Only two cricketers have played more Test matches than Root: James Anderson (188) and Sachin Tendulkar (200).<h2>Players to Play Most Test Matches –</h2><ul><li>Sachin Tendulkar (India) – 200 Test Matches</li><li>James Anderson (England) – 188 Test Matches</li><li>Joe Root (England) – 169 Test Matches*</li><li>Ricky Ponting (Australia) – 168 Test Matches</li><li>Steve Waugh (Australia) – 168 Test Matches</li></ul>Root is the only active cricketer on this top-five list, with the remaining four retired from all forms of the game. Tendulkar’s number of Test appearances is not the only record that Root is chasing, as the current England captain is only second to the Master Blaster for most Test runs scored. Root is 1,713 runs behind Sachin’s tally of 15,921 runs that he scored in 200 Test matches.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ollie-robinson-100th-test-wicket-pakistan-collapse-edgbaston-1788956659241">Robinson reaches 100 Test wickets as Pakistan collapse to 100/7 in opening session at Edgbaston</a> &nbsp;Meanwhile, Root was named England’s Test captain after talismanic all-rounder Ben Stokes announced his shock retirement after the New Zealand Test series. Root, who led England for six years until 2022, returned to the helm, with the ECB not too confident of handing over the Test baton to white-ball skipper Harry Brook. &nbsp;Since assuming the leadership role once again, Root began the second innings of his captaincy stint with thumping wins in the first two Tests against Pakistan, leading England to convincing wins in Leeds and Lord’s. The pace trio of Robinson, Archer and Tongue never allowed the visitors to score more than 200 in any of the four innings, with England staying at the top throughout. &nbsp;Even during the ongoing third and final Test at Edgbaston, Root’s England wrapped up Pakistan for 133 inside the second session on day one.

Joe Root surpassed Steve Waugh and Ricky Ponting to become the third-most capped Test player in history during the Edgbaston Test against Pakistan.

England Test captain Joe Root became the third-most capped Test player in cricket history after taking the field on day one of the Edgbaston Test against Pakistan on Wednesday (Sep 9). Root surpassed former Australian captains and Test veterans Steve Waugh and Ricky Ponting – who appeared in the same number of Test matches (168) – to feature in his 169th Test match and counting. Only two cricketers have played more Test matches than Root: James Anderson (188) and Sachin Tendulkar (200). Players to Play Most Test Matches – Sachin Tendulkar (India) – 200 Test Matches James Anderson (England) – 188 Test Matches Joe Root (England) – 169 Test Matches* Ricky Ponting (Australia) – 168 Test Matches Steve Waugh (Australia) – 168 Test Matches Root is the only active cricketer on this top-five list, with the remaining four retired from all forms of the game. Tendulkar’s number of Test appearances is not the only record that Root is chasing, as the current England captain is only second to the Master Blaster for most Test runs scored. Root is 1,713 runs behind Sachin’s tally of 15,921 runs that he scored in 200 Test matches. Also read| Robinson reaches 100 Test wickets as Pakistan collapse to 100/7 in opening session at Edgbaston Meanwhile, Root was named England’s Test captain after talismanic all-rounder Ben Stokes announced his shock retirement after the New Zealand Test series. Root, who led England for six years until 2022, returned to the helm, with the ECB not too confident of handing over the Test baton to white-ball skipper Harry Brook. Since assuming the leadership role once again, Root began the second innings of his captaincy stint with thumping wins in the first two Tests against Pakistan, leading England to convincing wins in Leeds and Lord’s. The pace trio of Robinson, Archer and Tongue never allowed the visitors to score more than 200 in any of the four innings, with England staying at the top throughout. Even during the ongoing third and final Test at Edgbaston, Root’s England wrapped up Pakistan for 133 inside the second session on day one.

Joe Root surpassed Steve Waugh and Ricky Ponting to become the third-most capped Test player in history during the Edgbaston Test against Pakistan.

Joe Root surpasses Steve Waugh, Ponting to become third-most capped Test player

Ace India all-rounder Hardik Pandya has returned to competitive cricket for the first time since IPL 2026, with the BCCI selectors picking him for the three-match One-Day series between India A and Australia A. Devdutt Padikkal and Ruturaj Gaikwad were handed captaincy duties for the four-day and 50-over series, respectively. Puducherry will host five Australia A matches, including two four-day games, starting September 22. The three 50-over games will follow on October 6, 9 and 11. The second multi-day game will take place from September 29 to October 2. &nbsp;Hardik Pandya has not played any white-ball cricket for India since IPL 2026, where his team, Mumbai Indians (MI), finished ninth on the table. Although his selection is subject to fitness, the selectors would be keen on tapping his progress, with plenty of white-ball cricket scheduled for the senior men’s team in the coming months.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asian-games-2026-whatever-they-are-providing-we-are-staying-there-rajiv-shukla-on-india-cricketers-accommodation-1788888280164">Asian Games 2026: ‘Whatever they are providing, we are staying there’: Rajiv Shukla on India cricketers' accommodation in Nagoya</a> &nbsp;Earlier reports suggested that Pandya underwent a Performance Block Programme at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) to recover from a back spasm.<h2>Padikkal, Gaikwad named captains</h2>In-form Test batter Devdutt Padikkal will lead the India A team in two four-day matches against Australia A. Fresh from his breakthrough series in Sri Lanka and a handy contribution for South Zone in the ongoing Duleep Trophy final, Padikkal will have Sai Sudharsan as his deputy for the red-ball matches.&nbsp; &nbsp;Promising names like Aman Mokhade, Ayush Pandey, Yash Rathod and Shaik Rasheed have also been picked, while Kumar Kushagra and N Jagadeesan are the two wicketkeeping options. Among the bowlers, Shams Mulani, Tanush Kotian, Tushar Deshpande and Anshul Kamboj have made the cut for the multi-day matches. &nbsp;Indian opener and CSK captain Gaikwad will lead the One-Day team against Australia A.&nbsp; &nbsp;While Padikkal will serve as his deputy, Sudharsan, Rajat Patidar, Priyansh Arya, Nishant Sindhu, Arshin Kulkarni and Naman Dhir are among those picked for the 50-over games.&nbsp; &nbsp;India A Multi-Day Squad:&nbsp;&nbsp;Aman Mokhade, Ayush Pandey, Devdutt Padikkal (captain), Sai Sudharsan (vice-captain), Yash Rathod, Shaik Rasheed, Kumar Kushagra (WK), Shams Mulani, Tanush Kotian, Tushar Deshpande, Anshul Kamboj, Praful Hinge, Narayan Jagadeesan (wk), Nachiket Bhute and V Vyshak* (subject to fitness) &nbsp;India A One-Day Squad:&nbsp;&nbsp;Ruturaj Gaikwad (captain), Priyansh Arya, Sai Sudharsan, Devdutt Padikkal (vice-captain), Rajat Patidar, Kumar Kushagra (wk), Nishant Sindhu, Vipraj Nigam, Arshin Kulkarni, Arshad Khan, Naman Dhir, Hardik Pandya* (subject to fitness), Prabhsimran Singh (WK), Gurjapneet Singh and Yash Thakur<h3>India A vs Australia A 2026 Schedule -&nbsp;</h3>

<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Date</td><td>Match</td><td>Venue</td></tr><tr><td>Sep 22 - 25&nbsp;</td><td>1st Multi-Day Match</td><td>Puducherry</td></tr><tr><td>Sep 29 - Oct 2</td><td>2nd Multi-Day Match</td><td>Puducherry</td></tr><tr><td>Oct 6</td><td>1st One-Day Match</td><td>Puducherry</td></tr><tr><td>Oct 9</td><td>2nd One-Day Match</td><td>Puducherry</td></tr><tr><td>Oct 11</td><td>3rd One-Day Match</td><td>Puducherry</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

Hardik Pandya makes his return as BCCI announces India A squads for the Australia A series in Puducherry. Devdutt Padikkal and Ruturaj Gaikwad are named captains. 

Ace India all-rounder Hardik Pandya has returned to competitive cricket for the first time since IPL 2026, with the BCCI selectors picking him for the three-match One-Day series between India A and Australia A. Devdutt Padikkal and Ruturaj Gaikwad were handed captaincy duties for the four-day and 50-over series, respectively. Puducherry will host five Australia A matches, including two four-day games, starting September 22. The three 50-over games will follow on October 6, 9 and 11. The second multi-day game will take place from September 29 to October 2. Hardik Pandya has not played any white-ball cricket for India since IPL 2026, where his team, Mumbai Indians (MI), finished ninth on the table. Although his selection is subject to fitness, the selectors would be keen on tapping his progress, with plenty of white-ball cricket scheduled for the senior men’s team in the coming months. Also read| Asian Games 2026: ‘Whatever they are providing, we are staying there’: Rajiv Shukla on India cricketers' accommodation in Nagoya Earlier reports suggested that Pandya underwent a Performance Block Programme at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) to recover from a back spasm. Padikkal, Gaikwad named captains In-form Test batter Devdutt Padikkal will lead the India A team in two four-day matches against Australia A. Fresh from his breakthrough series in Sri Lanka and a handy contribution for South Zone in the ongoing Duleep Trophy final, Padikkal will have Sai Sudharsan as his deputy for the red-ball matches. Promising names like Aman Mokhade, Ayush Pandey, Yash Rathod and Shaik Rasheed have also been picked, while Kumar Kushagra and N Jagadeesan are the two wicketkeeping options. Among the bowlers, Shams Mulani, Tanush Kotian, Tushar Deshpande and Anshul Kamboj have made the cut for the multi-day matches. Indian opener and CSK captain Gaikwad will lead the One-Day team against Australia A. While Padikkal will serve as his deputy, Sudharsan, Rajat Patidar, Priyansh Arya, Nishant Sindhu, Arshin Kulkarni and Naman Dhir are among those picked for the 50-over games. India A Multi-Day Squad: Aman Mokhade, Ayush Pandey, Devdutt Padikkal (captain), Sai Sudharsan (vice-captain), Yash Rathod, Shaik Rasheed, Kumar Kushagra (WK), Shams Mulani, Tanush Kotian, Tushar Deshpande, Anshul Kamboj, Praful Hinge, Narayan Jagadeesan (wk), Nachiket Bhute and V Vyshak* (subject to fitness) India A One-Day Squad: Ruturaj Gaikwad (captain), Priyansh Arya, Sai Sudharsan, Devdutt Padikkal (vice-captain), Rajat Patidar, Kumar Kushagra (wk), Nishant Sindhu, Vipraj Nigam, Arshin Kulkarni, Arshad Khan, Naman Dhir, Hardik Pandya* (subject to fitness), Prabhsimran Singh (WK), Gurjapneet Singh and Yash Thakur India A vs Australia A 2026 Schedule -

Hardik Pandya makes his return as BCCI announces India A squads for the Australia A series in Puducherry. Devdutt Padikkal and Ruturaj Gaikwad are named captains.&nbsp;

Hardik Pandya back in India A squad; Devdutt Padikkal, Ruturaj Gaikwad appointed captains

Pakistan's wholesale squad changes after defeat in the second of three England Tests even left skipper Babar Azam surprised. The Pakistan skipper, speaking on the eve of the third Test, which begins September 9 at Edgbaston, answered some difficult questions after the mid-tour drama. Pakistan, after losing the first two Tests, sent seven players back home and sacked red-ball head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed as well as bowling coach Umar Gul. Misbah-ul-Haq, one of the selectors, resigned amid the chaos, and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) also announced an inquest into player behavior and conduct.<h2>Babar Azam says he was blindsided by PCB's wholesale changes</h2>Babar said he found out about the squad changes after the PCB had made them—and not before, as should have been the case given he is the skipper. "It was news to me. I found out after. The PCB decided it, so they'll be able to explain better."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/joe-root-defends-pakistan-disrespectful-lack-of-fight-criticism-1788878363554">‘Disrespectful’: Joe Root defends Pakistan against ‘lack of fight’ criticism</a>On why the PCB decided to go this route mid-tour, Babar said: "The PCB's decision must have been taken after some thought process. It's better if you ask them why."The PCB appointed white-ball coach Mike Hesson as Sarfaraz's replacement for the third Test, which Babar says is an opportunity for the new players. Notably, five of the seven replacement players announced by the PCB have not played a single Test."The series is lost, but we have nothing to lose. We should play freely and believe in ourselves as a team. We've practiced for a couple of days and explained things to the new boys. Any young player who comes in is excited, and that excitement is visible. I believe that will be visible in the match, too," said the skipper.<h2>Pakistan in WTC 2025–27</h2>Pakistan are currently at the bottom of the <a href="https://www.icc-cricket.com/tournaments/world-test-championship/standings">World Test Championship (WTC) 2025–27</a> cycle's points table. The Asian team have played eight Tests in the cycle, winning only two of them and losing the remaining six. The third Test, even if Pakistan manage to win, won't really help them with their aspirations of playing in the WTC final, for which they are very much out of the race.

Babar Azam admitted being blindsided after Pakistan sacked their coaches, sent seven players home, and brought in five uncapped recruits amid mid-tour chaos following back-to-back Test losses to England.

Pakistan's wholesale squad changes after defeat in the second of three England Tests even left skipper Babar Azam surprised. The Pakistan skipper, speaking on the eve of the third Test, which begins September 9 at Edgbaston, answered some difficult questions after the mid-tour drama. Pakistan, after losing the first two Tests, sent seven players back home and sacked red-ball head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed as well as bowling coach Umar Gul. Misbah-ul-Haq, one of the selectors, resigned amid the chaos, and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) also announced an inquest into player behavior and conduct. Babar Azam says he was blindsided by PCB's wholesale changes Babar said he found out about the squad changes after the PCB had made them—and not before, as should have been the case given he is the skipper. "It was news to me. I found out after. The PCB decided it, so they'll be able to explain better." Also Read - ‘Disrespectful’: Joe Root defends Pakistan against ‘lack of fight’ criticism On why the PCB decided to go this route mid-tour, Babar said: "The PCB's decision must have been taken after some thought process. It's better if you ask them why." The PCB appointed white-ball coach Mike Hesson as Sarfaraz's replacement for the third Test, which Babar says is an opportunity for the new players. Notably, five of the seven replacement players announced by the PCB have not played a single Test. "The series is lost, but we have nothing to lose. We should play freely and believe in ourselves as a team. We've practiced for a couple of days and explained things to the new boys. Any young player who comes in is excited, and that excitement is visible. I believe that will be visible in the match, too," said the skipper. Pakistan in WTC 2025–27 Pakistan are currently at the bottom of the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025–27 cycle's points table. The Asian team have played eight Tests in the cycle, winning only two of them and losing the remaining six. The third Test, even if Pakistan manage to win, won't really help them with their aspirations of playing in the WTC final, for which they are very much out of the race.

Babar Azam admitted being blindsided after Pakistan sacked their coaches, sent seven players home, and brought in five uncapped recruits amid mid-tour chaos following back-to-back Test losses to England.

'Ask them why': Pak skipper Babar Azam on PCB's wholesale changes after Lord's defeat

England Test captain Joe Root has thrown his weight behind the underfire Pakistani team amid ‘lack of fight’ criticism. Root said it's ‘disrespectful’ to accuse the touring side of not showing stomach for a battle so far in this Test series, having trailed by 2-0, with one match to go. Pakistan will head into the third and final Test at Edgbaston on Wednesday having faced severe punishment for the Lord’s Test defeat, with the PCB dropping seven first-squad players and releasing the head coach (Sarfaraz Ahmed) and bowling coach (Umar Gul) midway through the series. &nbsp;The PCB called up seven players for the final Test, including five uncapped cricketers, and white-ball coaches (Mike Hesson and Ashley Noffke) for the final Test. &nbsp;This team, however, has also been labelled as the worst Pakistan side to tour England.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bazid-khan-accuses-ecb-pitch-bias-india-pakistan-tests-1788870161580">Bazid Khan accuses ECB of pitch bias; claims India get 5-day tracks for commercial value</a> &nbsp;Meanwhile, Root addressed all the drama during the pre-match presser in Edgbaston, saying, "Absolutely we have found (Pakistan) a challenge." &nbsp;"I think that's a bit disrespectful to both Pakistan as a team and to us as a team," added Root, in his second spell as full-time England skipper following the shock international retirement of Ben Stokes. &nbsp;"I don't think we've allowed them to get into games because of how well we've played as well and how quickly we've read the situations and the surfaces that we've had. &nbsp;"I think it's very easy to say one team is excellent and one team is poor. Normally it's somewhere in the middle." &nbsp;"If one team has been outstanding, then the other team can't have been poor and vice-versa. I think it's important to live in that middle area somewhere and understand that that's not how it is. &nbsp;"Regardless of what's happened over the last two games, this week it's a completely different proposition for us. &nbsp;"There's a very talented group of players in that dressing room, and you've got to be ready for it, so we'll make sure that we are,” Root said. &nbsp;Pakistan lost the series opener in Leeds by an innings and 103 runs, and suffered another embarrassing loss in the second Test at Lord’s by 194 runs. Amid the leadership drama, with two separate captains leading the Test team in the first two matches, Pakistan failed to cross 200 in any of the four innings they played.&nbsp;

England captain Joe Root has defended Pakistan against claims of lacking fight, calling such accusations disrespectful ahead of the third Test at Edgbaston.

England Test captain Joe Root has thrown his weight behind the underfire Pakistani team amid ‘lack of fight’ criticism. Root said it's ‘disrespectful’ to accuse the touring side of not showing stomach for a battle so far in this Test series, having trailed by 2-0, with one match to go. Pakistan will head into the third and final Test at Edgbaston on Wednesday having faced severe punishment for the Lord’s Test defeat, with the PCB dropping seven first-squad players and releasing the head coach (Sarfaraz Ahmed) and bowling coach (Umar Gul) midway through the series. The PCB called up seven players for the final Test, including five uncapped cricketers, and white-ball coaches (Mike Hesson and Ashley Noffke) for the final Test. This team, however, has also been labelled as the worst Pakistan side to tour England. Also read| Bazid Khan accuses ECB of pitch bias; claims India get 5-day tracks for commercial value Meanwhile, Root addressed all the drama during the pre-match presser in Edgbaston, saying, "Absolutely we have found (Pakistan) a challenge." "I think that's a bit disrespectful to both Pakistan as a team and to us as a team," added Root, in his second spell as full-time England skipper following the shock international retirement of Ben Stokes. "I don't think we've allowed them to get into games because of how well we've played as well and how quickly we've read the situations and the surfaces that we've had. "I think it's very easy to say one team is excellent and one team is poor. Normally it's somewhere in the middle." "If one team has been outstanding, then the other team can't have been poor and vice-versa. I think it's important to live in that middle area somewhere and understand that that's not how it is. "Regardless of what's happened over the last two games, this week it's a completely different proposition for us. "There's a very talented group of players in that dressing room, and you've got to be ready for it, so we'll make sure that we are,” Root said. Pakistan lost the series opener in Leeds by an innings and 103 runs, and suffered another embarrassing loss in the second Test at Lord’s by 194 runs. Amid the leadership drama, with two separate captains leading the Test team in the first two matches, Pakistan failed to cross 200 in any of the four innings they played.

England captain Joe Root has defended Pakistan against claims of lacking fight, calling such accusations disrespectful ahead of the third Test at Edgbaston.

‘Disrespectful’: England captain Joe Root defends Pakistan against ‘lack of fight’ criticism

Former Pakistan captain and bowling great Wasim Akram is the latest high-profile player to comment on Imran Khan’s deteriorating health. Having played with and under Imran and won Pakistan’s only 50-over World Cup in 1992, Wasim called his mentor Imran a friend, adding that he misses him a lot and hasn’t spoken with him in three years. After several of his former teammates, including Javed Miandad, Moin Khan and others, demanded medical attention for the former captain, Wasim joined a growing chorus of international figures, adding that whatever has happened to him has been unfortunate. &nbsp;"He's my friend, I miss him a lot," Akram said in an exclusive chat with The Athletic. "I haven't spoken to him for three years. It's so unfortunate, politically, what's happening with him. The court of law is the court of law. But as far as his health is concerned, there can be no compromise on that."&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bazid-khan-accuses-ecb-pitch-bias-india-pakistan-tests-1788870161580">Bazid Khan accuses ECB of pitch bias; claims India get 5-day tracks for commercial value</a> &nbsp;Meanwhile, 22 international captains wrote an open letter to Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, asking for Imran’s basic dignity and needs to be respected, including allowing him access to his personal doctor and his family members. While Australian Test captain Pat Cummins also became the first active cricketer to speak in support of Imran Khan, who has been behind bars at Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi since late 2023, batting giant Brian Lara took to his social media to call Imran a ‘legend of our game’, who deserved basic humanity.<h2>Akram on Sky Sports Interview Controversy</h2>Just ahead of the start of the second Test between England and Pakistan at Lord's, Sky Sports interviewed Imran Khan’s sons, Sulaiman and Kasim, and teased its telecast during lunch on day one. That decision created quite a stir in Pakistan, as reports suggesting that the touring team decided not to take the field after lunch, should the interview go live, began making headlines. &nbsp;With PTV in Pakistan using Sky’s live feed for telecasting the Test series, they did not run the interview after the first session and instead ran commercials for nearly half an hour. &nbsp;Speaking on the reaction back home to that interview, Wasim said, "There was a bit of uproar here [in Pakistan] after that. I then read that the Pakistani government came up with how many visits Imran has had, with all the numbers included, with all the phone calls he has had. But, you know, it's difficult to believe, and hard to know what to believe right now. &nbsp;"Even after we retired, him and me, we were regularly in touch. I used to go and spend time with him. I miss talking to him. I miss him in general as a friend, politics apart,” Akram said. &nbsp;Setting aside politics and vendettas, Wasim said he spoke from his heart, and as a friend, about Imran.&nbsp; &nbsp;"There's a movement in England and elsewhere [to improve Imran's conditions], but here [in Pakistan]? I'm not so sure," said Wasim. "I'm speaking from the heart as someone who is worried about him as a person. Convicted or not convicted. Jail or no jail. We need to safeguard his health. We don't know what's happening; the government are saying his health apparently is fine. But I'm worried. I miss him a lot,” he continued.

Wasim Akram has spoken out regarding Imran Khan's health in prison, calling him a mentor and friend while expressing concern following the Sky Sports Lord's Test interview.

Former Pakistan captain and bowling great Wasim Akram is the latest high-profile player to comment on Imran Khan’s deteriorating health. Having played with and under Imran and won Pakistan’s only 50-over World Cup in 1992, Wasim called his mentor Imran a friend, adding that he misses him a lot and hasn’t spoken with him in three years. After several of his former teammates, including Javed Miandad, Moin Khan and others, demanded medical attention for the former captain, Wasim joined a growing chorus of international figures, adding that whatever has happened to him has been unfortunate. "He's my friend, I miss him a lot," Akram said in an exclusive chat with The Athletic. "I haven't spoken to him for three years. It's so unfortunate, politically, what's happening with him. The court of law is the court of law. But as far as his health is concerned, there can be no compromise on that." Also read| Bazid Khan accuses ECB of pitch bias; claims India get 5-day tracks for commercial value Meanwhile, 22 international captains wrote an open letter to Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, asking for Imran’s basic dignity and needs to be respected, including allowing him access to his personal doctor and his family members. While Australian Test captain Pat Cummins also became the first active cricketer to speak in support of Imran Khan, who has been behind bars at Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi since late 2023, batting giant Brian Lara took to his social media to call Imran a ‘legend of our game’, who deserved basic humanity. Akram on Sky Sports Interview Controversy Just ahead of the start of the second Test between England and Pakistan at Lord's, Sky Sports interviewed Imran Khan’s sons, Sulaiman and Kasim, and teased its telecast during lunch on day one. That decision created quite a stir in Pakistan, as reports suggesting that the touring team decided not to take the field after lunch, should the interview go live, began making headlines. With PTV in Pakistan using Sky’s live feed for telecasting the Test series, they did not run the interview after the first session and instead ran commercials for nearly half an hour. Speaking on the reaction back home to that interview, Wasim said, "There was a bit of uproar here [in Pakistan] after that. I then read that the Pakistani government came up with how many visits Imran has had, with all the numbers included, with all the phone calls he has had. But, you know, it's difficult to believe, and hard to know what to believe right now. "Even after we retired, him and me, we were regularly in touch. I used to go and spend time with him. I miss talking to him. I miss him in general as a friend, politics apart,” Akram said. Setting aside politics and vendettas, Wasim said he spoke from his heart, and as a friend, about Imran. "There's a movement in England and elsewhere [to improve Imran's conditions], but here [in Pakistan]? I'm not so sure," said Wasim. "I'm speaking from the heart as someone who is worried about him as a person. Convicted or not convicted. Jail or no jail. We need to safeguard his health. We don't know what's happening; the government are saying his health apparently is fine. But I'm worried. I miss him a lot,” he continued.

Wasim Akram has spoken out regarding Imran Khan's health in prison, calling him a mentor and friend while expressing concern following the Sky Sports Lord's Test interview.

‘I miss him a lot; he is my mentor’: Wasim Akram breaks silence on Imran Khan’s health

Mohammed Shami and Mukesh Kumar picked up two wickets each as East Zone kept South Zone in check at stumps on day three of the Duleep Trophy Final. After being smashed left, right and centre by East Zone batters, mainly captain Ishan Kishan, who clobbered a magnificent 270, South Zone failed to replicate a similar batting masterclass, as they were reduced to 242 for six in 80 overs on day three, trailing by 466 runs. Despite the scorecard, East Zone bowlers rallied on this placid Chepauk surface, with India internationals Devdutt Padikkal and captain Tilak Varma among the half-centurions. &nbsp;Unlike the East Zone openers, who added 100 for the first wicket on the opening day, South Zone openers Ricky Bhui and keeper-batter Narayan Jagadeesan departed within 100 in the first session. While Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s quick call to take a review for a caught behind proved vital as Bhui departed in just the sixth over, Shikhar Mohan, who impressed with the bat in the first innings, dismissed Jagadeesan on 32.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/duleep-trophy-karun-nair-terms-omission-as-inexplicable-as-south-zone-coach-cites-personal-reasons-1788855628869">Duleep Trophy: Karun Nair terms omission as 'inexplicable' as South Zone coach cites ‘personal reasons’</a> &nbsp;Padikkal, fresh from his breakthrough series in Sri Lanka where he top-scored for India (328 in two Tests), also including two hundreds, continued from where he had left off. His partner and touted future star, Shaik Rasheed, scored a gritty 27 before Shami’s snorter trapped him in the middle of the stumps. Soon after, Padikkal departed on 62 off 104 balls, with Mukesh Kumar providing a crucial wicket.&nbsp;&nbsp;WATCH - Shami and Mukesh tear through South Zone's middle order -

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Shami-Mukesh combo strikes 🤝 The pace bowling duo dismiss set batters Shaik Rasheed and Devdutt Padikkal and breaks 56-run stand 🙌 South Zone are 134/4, trail by 574 runs. Scorecard ▶️ <a href="https://t.co/BhTkGWeeoD">https://t.co/BhTkGWeeoD</a><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/DuleepTrophy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DuleepTrophy</a> | <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/EZvSZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EZvSZ</a> <a href="https://t.co/NAvgCYBdkA">pic.twitter.com/NAvgCYBdkA</a>&mdash; BCCI Domestic (@BCCIdomestic) <a href="https://x.com/BCCIdomestic/status/2097233632943645170?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

South Zone, at one stage, were reeling at 129 for four. &nbsp;Tilak Varma stitched partnerships with Smaran Ravichandran (23) and Shreyas Gopal (26) but stood his ground till the end. Unbeaten on 56 off 133 balls, hitting five fours, Tilak remains South Zone’s only hope heading into the fourth day of this title match.

Mohammed Shami and Mukesh Kumar struck key blows as East Zone reduced South Zone to 242/6 on Day 3 of the Duleep Trophy final following Ishan Kishan's mammoth 270.

Mohammed Shami and Mukesh Kumar picked up two wickets each as East Zone kept South Zone in check at stumps on day three of the Duleep Trophy Final. After being smashed left, right and centre by East Zone batters, mainly captain Ishan Kishan, who clobbered a magnificent 270, South Zone failed to replicate a similar batting masterclass, as they were reduced to 242 for six in 80 overs on day three, trailing by 466 runs. Despite the scorecard, East Zone bowlers rallied on this placid Chepauk surface, with India internationals Devdutt Padikkal and captain Tilak Varma among the half-centurions. Unlike the East Zone openers, who added 100 for the first wicket on the opening day, South Zone openers Ricky Bhui and keeper-batter Narayan Jagadeesan departed within 100 in the first session. While Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s quick call to take a review for a caught behind proved vital as Bhui departed in just the sixth over, Shikhar Mohan, who impressed with the bat in the first innings, dismissed Jagadeesan on 32. Also read| Duleep Trophy: Karun Nair terms omission as 'inexplicable' as South Zone coach cites ‘personal reasons’ Padikkal, fresh from his breakthrough series in Sri Lanka where he top-scored for India (328 in two Tests), also including two hundreds, continued from where he had left off. His partner and touted future star, Shaik Rasheed, scored a gritty 27 before Shami’s snorter trapped him in the middle of the stumps. Soon after, Padikkal departed on 62 off 104 balls, with Mukesh Kumar providing a crucial wicket. WATCH - Shami and Mukesh tear through South Zone's middle order -

Mohammed Shami and Mukesh Kumar struck key blows as East Zone reduced South Zone to 242/6 on Day 3 of the Duleep Trophy final following Ishan Kishan's mammoth 270.

Duleep Trophy Final: Shami and Mukesh hand East Zone command over South Zone

Former Pakistan batter Bazid Khan has accused the ECB of pitch bias following Pakistan’s Test series loss in England. Bazid's comments come amid a turbulent week for Pakistan cricket and selectors, following the PCB's internal investigation into dressing room conduct, which is further linked to match- and spot-fixing allegations. Since losing the Lord’s Test by 194 runs, which led to seven first-squad players facing the axe and two top coaches being released, the former Pakistan cricketer touched on another topic and brought India into the conversation. &nbsp;Bazid said that, for the commercial value India brings to the table, they often get pitches where the matches last all five days, while that is not the case when other teams, including Pakistan, tour England for the Test series. Bazid’s comments have come on the back of Pakistan’s horror show thus far against England, having failed to cross 200 across four innings in two contested Tests.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/deflated-me-mentally-ex-pak-coach-gillespie-slams-aaqib-javed-s-intereference-claims-pcb-owes-him-money-1788860291800">'Deflated me mentally': Ex-Pak coach Gillespie slams Aaqib Javed's interference, claims PCB owes him money</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;“When India go to England for a Test series, they get pitches that make the game last all five days. Every Test match with India lasts five days. Why? Because if it ends early, there will be a financial hit to the wallet of the board. Any other team goes to England, the Test ends in three days. It’s not like the nature of the pitch changed. You are creating pitches that way that the game would last five days for India games,” Bazid said on OutSide EDGE. &nbsp;He, however, put every country that hosts India in the same bracket as that of England. &nbsp;“When India come for a tour, it’s a money-making opportunity,” he added.&nbsp; &nbsp;When he was asked if the apex body (ICC) should look into this, Bazid said, “This is not an ICC call. These are bilateral tours.” &nbsp;Meanwhile, India’s last tour of England, consisting of five Tests, spanned all 25 days, with cricket being played on all days of each Test. Elsewhere, Pakistan’s ongoing tour saw them play only seven days across two Tests. The series opener at Headingley in Leeds wrapped up within three days, with Pakistan suffering an innings and 103-run defeat; the second Test lasted four days, with the visitors facing another crushing loss. &nbsp;Edgbaston, Birmingham, will host the third and final Test starting Wednesday (Sep 9).

Former Pakistan batter Bazid Khan has accused the ECB of pitch bias, alleging host boards prepare 5-day tracks for India for commercial gain while giving Pakistan 3-day pitches.

Former Pakistan batter Bazid Khan has accused the ECB of pitch bias following Pakistan’s Test series loss in England. Bazid's comments come amid a turbulent week for Pakistan cricket and selectors, following the PCB's internal investigation into dressing room conduct, which is further linked to match- and spot-fixing allegations. Since losing the Lord’s Test by 194 runs, which led to seven first-squad players facing the axe and two top coaches being released, the former Pakistan cricketer touched on another topic and brought India into the conversation. Bazid said that, for the commercial value India brings to the table, they often get pitches where the matches last all five days, while that is not the case when other teams, including Pakistan, tour England for the Test series. Bazid’s comments have come on the back of Pakistan’s horror show thus far against England, having failed to cross 200 across four innings in two contested Tests. Also read| 'Deflated me mentally': Ex-Pak coach Gillespie slams Aaqib Javed's interference, claims PCB owes him money “When India go to England for a Test series, they get pitches that make the game last all five days. Every Test match with India lasts five days. Why? Because if it ends early, there will be a financial hit to the wallet of the board. Any other team goes to England, the Test ends in three days. It’s not like the nature of the pitch changed. You are creating pitches that way that the game would last five days for India games,” Bazid said on OutSide EDGE. He, however, put every country that hosts India in the same bracket as that of England. “When India come for a tour, it’s a money-making opportunity,” he added. When he was asked if the apex body (ICC) should look into this, Bazid said, “This is not an ICC call. These are bilateral tours.” Meanwhile, India’s last tour of England, consisting of five Tests, spanned all 25 days, with cricket being played on all days of each Test. Elsewhere, Pakistan’s ongoing tour saw them play only seven days across two Tests. The series opener at Headingley in Leeds wrapped up within three days, with Pakistan suffering an innings and 103-run defeat; the second Test lasted four days, with the visitors facing another crushing loss. Edgbaston, Birmingham, will host the third and final Test starting Wednesday (Sep 9).

Former Pakistan batter Bazid Khan has accused the ECB of pitch bias, alleging host boards prepare 5-day tracks for India for commercial gain while giving Pakistan 3-day pitches.

Bazid Khan accuses ECB of pitch bias; claims India get 5-day tracks for commercial value

Japan named the same group of players picked for the multilateral Asian Games 2026 in Aichi-Nagoya for the landmark one-off T20I against India on September 22 at the Sano International Cricket Ground. Japan and India will face off for the first time in international cricket for the Suzuki Cup, launching celebrations of the 75th anniversary of India-Japan diplomatic relations. &nbsp;Japan’s leading batter, Kendel Kadowaki-Fleming, will lead his team against Shreyas Iyer’s Indian T20I team. Fleming has scored 1871 runs in 54 T20Is, with fellow seasoned cricketers Ibrahim Takahashi and Declan Suzuki-McComb, who have played 56 and 54 T20Is, respectively, also featuring against the reigning T20 World Cup champions.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/where-to-watch-india-vs-japan-historic-t20i-live-streaming-channel-details-1788703019306">Where to watch India vs Japan historic T20I: Channel and live streaming details</a> &nbsp;21-year-old Jake Kusuda-Nairn, a spin-bowling all-rounder, has earned his maiden call-up to the senior team. Tsuyoshi Takada, who played three T20Is in 2023, was also recalled to the squad.<h3>Japan T20I Squad vs India –</h3>Kendel Kadowaki-Fleming (captain), Charlie Hara-Hinze, Benjamin Ito-Davis, Alester Kadowaki-Fleming, Kohei Kubota, Jake Kusuda-Nairn, Wataru Miyauchi (wk), Reo Sakurano-Thomas, Alex Shirai-Patmore (wk), Shoma Sugaya-Slater, Declan Suzuki-McComb, Tsuyoshi Takada, Ibrahim Takahashi, Makoto Taniyama, Lachlan Yamamoto-Lake<h2>India to Play with Full-Strength Squad&nbsp;</h2>Similarly, India also named a strong 15-member squad for the historic fixture and the upcoming Asian Games.&nbsp; &nbsp;Newly appointed T20I captain Shreyas Iyer will lead the team against Japan, with India’s ace quick Jasprit Bumrah also making the squad. Besides him, Arshdeep Singh and former world number one T20I bowler Varun Chakaravarthy have also been picked. Harshit Rana is the remaining quick in the team, and Ravi Bishnoi will lead the spin attack, including spin-bowling all-rounders Axar Patel and Washington Sundar. &nbsp;India’s batting looks lethal, with ultra-attacking openers in Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Abhishek Sharma at the top, followed by two keeper-batters and T20 World Cup winners, Ishan Kishan and Sanju Samson. Tilak Varma, Shivam Dube and Nitish Kumar Reddy round out the middle and lower order as India will enter the contest as favourites.<h3>India T20I Squad vs Japan –</h3>Shreyas Iyer (captain), Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Tilak Varma, Shivam Dube, Nitish Reddy, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Harshit Rana, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy and Ravi Bishnoi

Japan and India have named full-strength squads for their historic T20I in Sano ahead of the 2026 Asian Games. Check team lists, captains, and key players.

Japan named the same group of players picked for the multilateral Asian Games 2026 in Aichi-Nagoya for the landmark one-off T20I against India on September 22 at the Sano International Cricket Ground. Japan and India will face off for the first time in international cricket for the Suzuki Cup, launching celebrations of the 75th anniversary of India-Japan diplomatic relations. Japan’s leading batter, Kendel Kadowaki-Fleming, will lead his team against Shreyas Iyer’s Indian T20I team. Fleming has scored 1871 runs in 54 T20Is, with fellow seasoned cricketers Ibrahim Takahashi and Declan Suzuki-McComb, who have played 56 and 54 T20Is, respectively, also featuring against the reigning T20 World Cup champions. Also read| Where to watch India vs Japan historic T20I: Channel and live streaming details 21-year-old Jake Kusuda-Nairn, a spin-bowling all-rounder, has earned his maiden call-up to the senior team. Tsuyoshi Takada, who played three T20Is in 2023, was also recalled to the squad. Japan T20I Squad vs India – Kendel Kadowaki-Fleming (captain), Charlie Hara-Hinze, Benjamin Ito-Davis, Alester Kadowaki-Fleming, Kohei Kubota, Jake Kusuda-Nairn, Wataru Miyauchi (wk), Reo Sakurano-Thomas, Alex Shirai-Patmore (wk), Shoma Sugaya-Slater, Declan Suzuki-McComb, Tsuyoshi Takada, Ibrahim Takahashi, Makoto Taniyama, Lachlan Yamamoto-Lake India to Play with Full-Strength Squad Similarly, India also named a strong 15-member squad for the historic fixture and the upcoming Asian Games. Newly appointed T20I captain Shreyas Iyer will lead the team against Japan, with India’s ace quick Jasprit Bumrah also making the squad. Besides him, Arshdeep Singh and former world number one T20I bowler Varun Chakaravarthy have also been picked. Harshit Rana is the remaining quick in the team, and Ravi Bishnoi will lead the spin attack, including spin-bowling all-rounders Axar Patel and Washington Sundar. India’s batting looks lethal, with ultra-attacking openers in Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Abhishek Sharma at the top, followed by two keeper-batters and T20 World Cup winners, Ishan Kishan and Sanju Samson. Tilak Varma, Shivam Dube and Nitish Kumar Reddy round out the middle and lower order as India will enter the contest as favourites. India T20I Squad vs Japan – Shreyas Iyer (captain), Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Tilak Varma, Shivam Dube, Nitish Reddy, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Harshit Rana, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy and Ravi Bishnoi

Japan and India have named full-strength squads for their historic T20I in Sano ahead of the 2026 Asian Games. Check team lists, captains, and key players.

Japan pick Asian Games squad for landmark India T20I: Check captain and top players

The Big Bash League (BBL) will be partially privatised, starting with the sale of the struggling Melbourne Renegades, Cricket Australia (CA) announced on Tuesday. The governing body wants to bring in private investment to the Twenty20 competition as it looks to shore up the game's financial future, which has come under threat from lucrative leagues abroad. &nbsp;"Beginning the sales process for the Renegades allows us to take the first step in a self-determination model for our members and represents a defining moment for the game," said Cricket Australia chair Mike Baird. "This is a significant decision that has involved an enormous amount of analysis, discussion and collaboration over many months." &nbsp;Cricket Australia said it could offer other franchises for sale further down the track. &nbsp;Cricket Australia said it aimed for the Renegades to have new ownership in place for the next season.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/deflated-me-mentally-ex-pak-coach-gillespie-slams-aaqib-javed-s-intereference-claims-pcb-owes-him-money-1788860291800">'Deflated me mentally': Ex-Pak coach Gillespie slams Aaqib Javed's interference, claims PCB owes him money</a> &nbsp;Melbourne is in Victoria, and the state's cricket association said the sale would help Australia keep pace with an "evolving" cricket landscape. &nbsp;"We're enthusiastic about moving forward with this process and taking the Melbourne Renegades to market," said Cricket Victoria director Shaun Richardson. &nbsp;Privatisation has been a thorny issue in Australia, with an initial proposal to sell stakes in each of BBL's eight teams stalling earlier this year amid concerns about a loss of control for the game's local custodians. &nbsp;While the Victoria, Western Australia and Tasmania cricket associations voiced support and South Australia said it was open to the idea, New South Wales and Queensland rejected the move.<h2>BBL 16 Opener in India</h2>The first game of BBL 16 between Melbourne Renegades and Perth Scorchers will take place outside of Australia at Chepauk in Chennai, marking a unique and historic occasion for franchise cricket worldwide. Chennai will host the Renegades' home game on December 12, starting at 2:40 PM local time.&nbsp; &nbsp;This BBL match, taking place on foreign soil, was organised as a joint initiative between CA and the BCCI to deepen Australia-India cricket and diplomatic ties.&nbsp;(With inputs from AFP)

Cricket Australia has announced the partial privatisation of the Big Bash League, opening the sales process for the Melbourne Renegades ahead of the BBL 16 opener in Chennai.

The Big Bash League (BBL) will be partially privatised, starting with the sale of the struggling Melbourne Renegades, Cricket Australia (CA) announced on Tuesday. The governing body wants to bring in private investment to the Twenty20 competition as it looks to shore up the game's financial future, which has come under threat from lucrative leagues abroad. "Beginning the sales process for the Renegades allows us to take the first step in a self-determination model for our members and represents a defining moment for the game," said Cricket Australia chair Mike Baird. "This is a significant decision that has involved an enormous amount of analysis, discussion and collaboration over many months." Cricket Australia said it could offer other franchises for sale further down the track. Cricket Australia said it aimed for the Renegades to have new ownership in place for the next season. Also read| 'Deflated me mentally': Ex-Pak coach Gillespie slams Aaqib Javed's interference, claims PCB owes him money Melbourne is in Victoria, and the state's cricket association said the sale would help Australia keep pace with an "evolving" cricket landscape. "We're enthusiastic about moving forward with this process and taking the Melbourne Renegades to market," said Cricket Victoria director Shaun Richardson. Privatisation has been a thorny issue in Australia, with an initial proposal to sell stakes in each of BBL's eight teams stalling earlier this year amid concerns about a loss of control for the game's local custodians. While the Victoria, Western Australia and Tasmania cricket associations voiced support and South Australia said it was open to the idea, New South Wales and Queensland rejected the move. BBL 16 Opener in India The first game of BBL 16 between Melbourne Renegades and Perth Scorchers will take place outside of Australia at Chepauk in Chennai, marking a unique and historic occasion for franchise cricket worldwide. Chennai will host the Renegades' home game on December 12, starting at 2:40 PM local time. This BBL match, taking place on foreign soil, was organised as a joint initiative between CA and the BCCI to deepen Australia-India cricket and diplomatic ties. (With inputs from AFP)

Cricket Australia has announced the partial privatisation of the Big Bash League, opening the sales process for the Melbourne Renegades ahead of the BBL 16 opener in Chennai.

Cricket Australia opens BBL to private investment; Melbourne Renegades set to be first club sold

Former Australia pacer and Pakistan coach Jason Gillespie has come out swinging at Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) director of high performance and chief selector Aaqib Javed. Gillespie, who was named Pakistan's Test coach in May 2024, resigned seven months later in December 2024. With Pakistan cricket going through a crisis following back-to-back losses in the ongoing three-Test series in England, Gillespie revealed how serving as the national coach affected him mentally after Aaqib was put in charge, and disclosed that the PCB still owes him money.<h2>Gillespie says Pakistan Test coaching job affected him mentally</h2>After Pakistan sent back seven players and replaced head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul following a 194-run defeat at Lord's, the blame game has not stopped. Aaqib Javed defended sending players home as sending a message, while several former players criticized it as a knee-jerk reaction.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/duleep-trophy-karun-nair-terms-omission-as-inexplicable-as-south-zone-coach-cites-personal-reasons-1788855628869">Duleep Trophy: Karun Nair terms omission as 'inexplicable'</a>In an interview with The Telegraph, Gillespie said: "The appointment of Javed fundamentally altered the landscape. From that moment, my relationship with Pakistan cricket completely changed. Aaqib came in and took over. It appeared to me that he was in charge of absolutely everything. The whole experience just deflated me and put me off coaching. It affected me mentally, making me doubt myself and leaving me thinking whether I still wanted to be involved in the sport. I was totally disrespected and undermined, and I direct that towards Aaqib Javed."Gillespie also revealed that the PCB owes him money, saying: "The PCB still owes me thousands of dollars, but I was never going to be a yes-man. I could have stayed quiet, agreed to everything, and taken home my salary, but that’s not me, and part of me knew I was probably going to be sacked in a couple of months anyway."<h2>What next for Pakistan?</h2>Mike Hesson, who has taken over red-ball coaching duties from Sarfaraz Ahmed, leads Pakistan into the third Test against England at Edgbaston, Birmingham. With the series already lost, a match victory—if Pakistan can pull it off—might offer a way out of the team's current slump. &nbsp;

Ex-Pakistan coach Jason Gillespie criticized Aaqib Javed for disrespecting him and causing mental strain. He revealed the PCB still owes him thousands of dollars post-resignation.

Former Australia pacer and Pakistan coach Jason Gillespie has come out swinging at Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) director of high performance and chief selector Aaqib Javed. Gillespie, who was named Pakistan's Test coach in May 2024, resigned seven months later in December 2024. With Pakistan cricket going through a crisis following back-to-back losses in the ongoing three-Test series in England, Gillespie revealed how serving as the national coach affected him mentally after Aaqib was put in charge, and disclosed that the PCB still owes him money. Gillespie says Pakistan Test coaching job affected him mentally After Pakistan sent back seven players and replaced head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul following a 194-run defeat at Lord's, the blame game has not stopped. Aaqib Javed defended sending players home as sending a message, while several former players criticized it as a knee-jerk reaction. Also Read - Duleep Trophy: Karun Nair terms omission as 'inexplicable' In an interview with The Telegraph, Gillespie said: "The appointment of Javed fundamentally altered the landscape. From that moment, my relationship with Pakistan cricket completely changed. Aaqib came in and took over. It appeared to me that he was in charge of absolutely everything. The whole experience just deflated me and put me off coaching. It affected me mentally, making me doubt myself and leaving me thinking whether I still wanted to be involved in the sport. I was totally disrespected and undermined, and I direct that towards Aaqib Javed." Gillespie also revealed that the PCB owes him money, saying: "The PCB still owes me thousands of dollars, but I was never going to be a yes-man. I could have stayed quiet, agreed to everything, and taken home my salary, but that’s not me, and part of me knew I was probably going to be sacked in a couple of months anyway." What next for Pakistan? Mike Hesson, who has taken over red-ball coaching duties from Sarfaraz Ahmed, leads Pakistan into the third Test against England at Edgbaston, Birmingham. With the series already lost, a match victory—if Pakistan can pull it off—might offer a way out of the team's current slump.

Ex-Pakistan coach Jason Gillespie criticized Aaqib Javed for disrespecting him and causing mental strain. He revealed the PCB still owes him thousands of dollars post-resignation.

'Deflated me mentally': Ex-Pak coach Gillespie slams Aaqib Javed's intereference, claims PCB owes him money

Karun Nair, the veteran Indian cricketer who plays for Karnataka in domestic cricket, has insinuated selection discrepancies regarding the South Zone team setup in the ongoing Duleep Trophy. Nair was part of the South Zone squad but did not feature in the playing XI for the semi-final against North Zone. He was subsequently left out of the final against East Zone as well. The batter left the squad after his exclusion from the final and promptly scored a century for KSCA Secretary’s XI at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in the Dr. (Capt) K. Thimmappaiah Memorial Tournament, which marks the beginning of Karnataka's red-ball preparations.<h2>Why isn't Karun Nair playing the Duleep Trophy final?</h2>After East Zone were bowled out for a mammoth 708 runs in their first innings on Day 2 (Sep 7), South Zone coach Vikram Verma explained why Nair was not included in the playing XI:"He [Nair] left due to personal reasons," Verma said. "So he left for home after emailing and taking permission. Actually, we went with a tactical combination because the opposition has two left-arm spinners. We thought a left-handed batter in the middle order would offer a better chance to dominate them. So again, we chose what was best for the team.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ishan-kishan-270-east-zone-708-duleep-trophy-final-1788789007399">Ishan Kishan smashes 270 as East Zone rack up 708 in Duleep Trophy Final</a>"In the first match [against North Zone], we gave a chance to youngster Himateja Kodimela. Now, since [Devdutt] Padikkal has returned, the team combination demanded that setup. It was difficult to leave him [Nair] out, but that's the combination we went with."<h2>What did Karun Nair say about his omission?</h2>Nair appeared unconvinced by the coach's perspective regarding his exclusion from two consecutive Duleep Trophy matches. Responding to a social media post discussing his omission, Nair posted: "Inexplicable would be an understatement."

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Inexplicable would be an understatement🤣 <a href="https://t.co/kPtzds8r6f">https://t.co/kPtzds8r6f</a>&mdash; Karun Nair (@karun126) <a href="https://x.com/karun126/status/2096968826776870930?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 7, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

During the 2025/26 Ranji Trophy season, Nair enjoyed a prolific run, scoring 699 runs across 13 innings in nine matches—including two centuries and three fifties at an average of 58 with a top score of 233.

Veteran batter Karun Nair hinted at selection discrepancies after being dropped from South Zone's Duleep Trophy final XI, publicly disputing coach Vikram Verma's claims of personal reasons.

Karun Nair, the veteran Indian cricketer who plays for Karnataka in domestic cricket, has insinuated selection discrepancies regarding the South Zone team setup in the ongoing Duleep Trophy. Nair was part of the South Zone squad but did not feature in the playing XI for the semi-final against North Zone. He was subsequently left out of the final against East Zone as well. The batter left the squad after his exclusion from the final and promptly scored a century for KSCA Secretary’s XI at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in the Dr. (Capt) K. Thimmappaiah Memorial Tournament, which marks the beginning of Karnataka's red-ball preparations. Why isn't Karun Nair playing the Duleep Trophy final? After East Zone were bowled out for a mammoth 708 runs in their first innings on Day 2 (Sep 7), South Zone coach Vikram Verma explained why Nair was not included in the playing XI: "He [Nair] left due to personal reasons," Verma said. "So he left for home after emailing and taking permission. Actually, we went with a tactical combination because the opposition has two left-arm spinners. We thought a left-handed batter in the middle order would offer a better chance to dominate them. So again, we chose what was best for the team. Also Read - Ishan Kishan smashes 270 as East Zone rack up 708 in Duleep Trophy Final "In the first match [against North Zone], we gave a chance to youngster Himateja Kodimela. Now, since [Devdutt] Padikkal has returned, the team combination demanded that setup. It was difficult to leave him [Nair] out, but that's the combination we went with." What did Karun Nair say about his omission? Nair appeared unconvinced by the coach's perspective regarding his exclusion from two consecutive Duleep Trophy matches. Responding to a social media post discussing his omission, Nair posted: "Inexplicable would be an understatement."

Veteran batter Karun Nair hinted at selection discrepancies after being dropped from South Zone's Duleep Trophy final XI, publicly disputing coach Vikram Verma's claims of personal reasons.

Duleep Trophy: Karun Nair terms omission as 'inexplicable' as South Zone coach cites 'personal reasons'

Hours after announcing <a href="Kevin Pietersen named England's 'specialist mentor' for white-ball cricket">Kevin Pietersen’s shocking return to their white-ball set-up as specialist mentor</a>, England revealed his former teammate and Afghanistan coach Jonathan Trott as the new interim coach for the England Lions. Trott, who leads the race to succeed England great Andrew Flintoff in this role permanently, will coach the Lions’ squad against Sri Lanka in two T20 matches scheduled later this month. &nbsp;After Trott left his role with Afghanistan Cricket following the T20 World Cup early this year, he emerged as the frontrunner to replace Flintoff at the Lions – who joined BBL side Sydney Thunder as their head coach for the upcoming season. &nbsp;At the Lions, Trott will act as head coach for the short shadow series against Sri Lanka, which will serve as preparatory matches for the forthcoming three ODIs and a T20I series between the two teams. Trott will have his former international mates, including Ravi Bopara and Graeme Swann, as well as ECB pace-bowling lead Troy Cooley and fielding specialist Carl Hopkinson in the backroom staff.&nbsp; &nbsp;Meanwhile, as Afghanistan’s head coach, Trott remained in charge for four years, overseeing several monumental achievements for the Asian team. Under his leadership, Afghanistan shocked New Zealand and Australia to reach the semifinals of a T20 World Cup in 2024 for the first time. He also guided them to famous wins over ODI heavyweights like Sri Lanka, England and Pakistan during the 2023 edition of the 50-over World Cup. For the record, Trott has also coached several teams in different franchise leagues and remains in line to replace Brendon McCullum as England’s future white-ball coach.<h2>T20I regulars in Lions’ squad</h2>England named a potent 20-man squad for the two Lions matches, including six players from England’s T20I squad for the Sri Lanka series: Tom Banton, Will Jacks, James Coles, Aneurin Donald, Jamie Overton and Saqib Mahmood, while Henry Crocombe, who is only part of England's ODI squad, is also involved. &nbsp;Meanwhile, Sri Lanka also named their squad for the England series last week, with Charith Asalanka set to lead the side in Kusal Mendis’ absence.<h3>England Lions Squad vs Sri Lanka -</h3>Tom Banton, Jafer Chohan, James Coles, Mason Crane, Henry Crocombe, Aneurin Donald, Caleb Falconer, Tom Hartley, Eddie Jack, Will Jacks, Saqib Mahmood, Ben Mayes, Ben McKinney, Joe Moores, Jamie Overton, Matthew Revis, James Sales, Ollie Sykes, Paul Walter and Luke Wood &nbsp;Fixtures: September 11 - 1st T20 (Chelmsford, floodlit), September 13 - 2nd T20 (Beckenham).

Hours after Kevin Pietersen's return, England named Jonathan Trott as interim Lions coach to succeed Andrew Flintoff against Sri Lanka. Check the full squad.

Hours after announcing Kevin Pietersen’s shocking return to their white-ball set-up as specialist mentor, England revealed his former teammate and Afghanistan coach Jonathan Trott as the new interim coach for the England Lions. Trott, who leads the race to succeed England great Andrew Flintoff in this role permanently, will coach the Lions’ squad against Sri Lanka in two T20 matches scheduled later this month. After Trott left his role with Afghanistan Cricket following the T20 World Cup early this year, he emerged as the frontrunner to replace Flintoff at the Lions – who joined BBL side Sydney Thunder as their head coach for the upcoming season. At the Lions, Trott will act as head coach for the short shadow series against Sri Lanka, which will serve as preparatory matches for the forthcoming three ODIs and a T20I series between the two teams. Trott will have his former international mates, including Ravi Bopara and Graeme Swann, as well as ECB pace-bowling lead Troy Cooley and fielding specialist Carl Hopkinson in the backroom staff. Meanwhile, as Afghanistan’s head coach, Trott remained in charge for four years, overseeing several monumental achievements for the Asian team. Under his leadership, Afghanistan shocked New Zealand and Australia to reach the semifinals of a T20 World Cup in 2024 for the first time. He also guided them to famous wins over ODI heavyweights like Sri Lanka, England and Pakistan during the 2023 edition of the 50-over World Cup. For the record, Trott has also coached several teams in different franchise leagues and remains in line to replace Brendon McCullum as England’s future white-ball coach. T20I regulars in Lions’ squad England named a potent 20-man squad for the two Lions matches, including six players from England’s T20I squad for the Sri Lanka series: Tom Banton, Will Jacks, James Coles, Aneurin Donald, Jamie Overton and Saqib Mahmood, while Henry Crocombe, who is only part of England's ODI squad, is also involved. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka also named their squad for the England series last week, with Charith Asalanka set to lead the side in Kusal Mendis’ absence. England Lions Squad vs Sri Lanka - Tom Banton, Jafer Chohan, James Coles, Mason Crane, Henry Crocombe, Aneurin Donald, Caleb Falconer, Tom Hartley, Eddie Jack, Will Jacks, Saqib Mahmood, Ben Mayes, Ben McKinney, Joe Moores, Jamie Overton, Matthew Revis, James Sales, Ollie Sykes, Paul Walter and Luke Wood Fixtures: September 11 - 1st T20 (Chelmsford, floodlit), September 13 - 2nd T20 (Beckenham).

Hours after Kevin Pietersen's return, England named Jonathan Trott as interim Lions coach to succeed Andrew Flintoff against Sri Lanka. Check the full squad.

After KP's appointment, England draft in Jonathan Trott as Flintoff's successor for Lions

The Asia Cup trophy controversy could be back as early as next Sunday (Sep 13), as PCB chairman and ACC president Mohsin Naqvi will be in attendance for the women’s final in Dubai, with the Indian team favourite to enter the title clash. &nbsp;During the 2025 edition in Dubai, after India beat Pakistan in the final, Naqvi walked away with the Asia Cup trophy. He denied handing it over to the winning captain, Suryakumar Yadav, against the backdrop of Indian players refusing to shake hands with the Men in Green. With the BCCI maintaining the no-handshake stance with the Pakistani players, as also carried out by Harmanpreet Kaur’s women’s team in their group stage face-off, Naqvi could find himself in a similar position should India reach the summit clash and win it.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wahab-riaz-pakistan-best-team-womens-asia-cup-55-all-out-1788684197776">All out for 55 vs India, coach Wahab Riaz bizarrely claims Pakistan as ‘Best Team in Asia Cup’</a> &nbsp;Although Naqvi’s decision to walk away with the Asia Cup trophy last year created quite a stir, it remains to be seen what happens on the podium should the Indian women’s team win the final. Not only that, but whether to accept the trophy from Naqvi will ultimately rest with Harmanpreet Kaur and the team management. &nbsp;The Indian Cricket Board (BCCI), however, has remained silent on what will happen if a similar situation unfolds again. &nbsp;The Indian women’s team is head and shoulders above the rest, having already qualified for the final without losing a game. After crushing Thailand and Hong Kong in one-sided affairs in their first two matches, India reduced Pakistan to their lowest T20I total (55) in the marquee face-off in Dubai on Saturday (Sep 5). &nbsp;Electing to bat first after winning the toss, Pakistan were 27 for no loss at one stage, and strangely were all out for 55, losing all 10 wickets for 28 runs. The spin quartet of N Shree Charani (3 for 7), Prema Rawat (3 for 9), Deepti Sharma (2 for 5) and Shafali (1 for 10) triggered Pakistan’s collapse, as they set India a modest target of 56. &nbsp;Although India expectedly crossed the winning line, they lost three wickets on their way, with Pakistan captain Fatima Sana accounting for three dismissals. Her send-off to Indian opener Shafali Verma, however, led her into trouble as the <a href="Pakistan women’s captain Fatima Sana penalised for Shafali Verma send-off">ICC penalised her by deducting 10 per cent of her match fee</a> and handing her a demerit point, her second in 24 months. &nbsp;Should Pakistan beat Hong Kong in their final group game in Dubai on Monday, they will qualify for the semifinals. India and Pakistan could meet again in the final this year if they win their respective last four matches.&nbsp;

PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi is set to attend the Women’s Asia Cup final in Dubai, raising questions over the trophy presentation if favourites India reach and win the summit clash.

The Asia Cup trophy controversy could be back as early as next Sunday (Sep 13), as PCB chairman and ACC president Mohsin Naqvi will be in attendance for the women’s final in Dubai, with the Indian team favourite to enter the title clash. During the 2025 edition in Dubai, after India beat Pakistan in the final, Naqvi walked away with the Asia Cup trophy. He denied handing it over to the winning captain, Suryakumar Yadav, against the backdrop of Indian players refusing to shake hands with the Men in Green. With the BCCI maintaining the no-handshake stance with the Pakistani players, as also carried out by Harmanpreet Kaur’s women’s team in their group stage face-off, Naqvi could find himself in a similar position should India reach the summit clash and win it. Also read| All out for 55 vs India, coach Wahab Riaz bizarrely claims Pakistan as ‘Best Team in Asia Cup’ Although Naqvi’s decision to walk away with the Asia Cup trophy last year created quite a stir, it remains to be seen what happens on the podium should the Indian women’s team win the final. Not only that, but whether to accept the trophy from Naqvi will ultimately rest with Harmanpreet Kaur and the team management. The Indian Cricket Board (BCCI), however, has remained silent on what will happen if a similar situation unfolds again. The Indian women’s team is head and shoulders above the rest, having already qualified for the final without losing a game. After crushing Thailand and Hong Kong in one-sided affairs in their first two matches, India reduced Pakistan to their lowest T20I total (55) in the marquee face-off in Dubai on Saturday (Sep 5). Electing to bat first after winning the toss, Pakistan were 27 for no loss at one stage, and strangely were all out for 55, losing all 10 wickets for 28 runs. The spin quartet of N Shree Charani (3 for 7), Prema Rawat (3 for 9), Deepti Sharma (2 for 5) and Shafali (1 for 10) triggered Pakistan’s collapse, as they set India a modest target of 56. Although India expectedly crossed the winning line, they lost three wickets on their way, with Pakistan captain Fatima Sana accounting for three dismissals. Her send-off to Indian opener Shafali Verma, however, led her into trouble as the ICC penalised her by deducting 10 per cent of her match fee and handing her a demerit point, her second in 24 months. Should Pakistan beat Hong Kong in their final group game in Dubai on Monday, they will qualify for the semifinals. India and Pakistan could meet again in the final this year if they win their respective last four matches.

PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi is set to attend the Women’s Asia Cup final in Dubai, raising questions over the trophy presentation if favourites India reach and win the summit clash.

ACC chief Mohsin Naqvi set to attend Women's Asia Cup Final as India favourites for title

East Zone captain Ishan Kishan clobbered his highest first-class score of 270 against South Zone in the ongoing Duleep Trophy final in Chennai. Riding on his brilliant double hundred and a gritty century from Kumar Kushagra, East Zone posted their first-innings total in excess of 700 at stumps on day 2, marking only the third time in the tournament’s final history that a team has crossed the 700-run milestone. &nbsp;Resuming day two on 385 for four, Kishan (111*) and Kushagra (63*) began piling up runs and misery on South Zone bowlers. Mohammed Siraj, who went wicketless on day 1, tried hard – both with his pace and line and verbal volleys to unsettle the pair, but failed. MD Nidheesh too bowled his heart out with the new ball in his quest to break this partnership but tasted no success, as the two batters inched closer to their respective milestones. The two spinners, Tripurana Vijay and Shreyas Gopal, also kept persisting with defensive lines on either side of the drinks break but failed to provide any respite.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/where-to-watch-india-vs-japan-historic-t20i-live-streaming-channel-details-1788703019306">Where to watch India vs Japan historic T20I: Channel and live streaming details</a> &nbsp;The right-handed batter Kushagra completed his sixth first-class hundred soon after but lost his wicket before lunch on day two.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Watch 🎥 Kumar Kushagra lights up Chennai with a brilliant 101(132) 💪 Scorecard ▶️ <a href="https://t.co/BhTkGWeeoD">https://t.co/BhTkGWeeoD</a><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/DuleepTrophy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DuleepTrophy</a> | <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/EZvSZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EZvSZ</a> <a href="https://t.co/zfqrn3Uh4C">pic.twitter.com/zfqrn3Uh4C</a>&mdash; BCCI Domestic (@BCCIdomestic) <a href="https://x.com/BCCIdomestic/status/2096903068399124779?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 7, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Kishan, on the other hand, took advantage of South Zone’s tired bowling attack and kept manoeuvring gaps for boundaries for fun, closing in on his double hundred.&nbsp;Nothing worked for Tilak Varma’s South Zone, which had also tried part-timers in Devdutt Padikkal, as Kishan completed his brilliant 200 in 270 balls.<h3>WATCH the moment Kishan scored 200 vs South Zone -</h3>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">That moment when Ishan Kishan reached 2️⃣5️⃣0️⃣ 👏👏 Scorecard ▶️ <a href="https://t.co/KQf5Km69nk">https://t.co/KQf5Km69nk</a><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/DuleepTrophy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DuleepTrophy</a> | <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/SZvEZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SZvEZ</a> <a href="https://t.co/6YJYiwNtjV">pic.twitter.com/6YJYiwNtjV</a>&mdash; BCCI Domestic (@BCCIdomestic) <a href="https://x.com/BCCIdomestic/status/2096884661041639535?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 7, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Just when he crossed his 200-mark, Kishan upped the ante and began scoring quickly, with South Zone anticipating a declaration. Much to their disappointment, Kishan did not declare and kept cruising even after crossing 250. Although fatigue caught up with him as he walked out retired hurt, Kishan returned following Mohammed Shami’s dismissal on 28 to rack up more runs.&nbsp; &nbsp;He, however, failed to smash a triple hundred in this title match, after finding a fielder near long-on to depart on 270.&nbsp; &nbsp;South Zone could finally wrap up East Zone's innings on 708, with a mountain to climb should they seek a shocking turnaround from here in the Duleep Trophy final.

East Zone captain Ishan Kishan smashed a record-breaking 270 to propel his side to a colossal 708 against South Zone on Day 2 of the Duleep Trophy final in Chennai. Read the day report. 

East Zone captain Ishan Kishan clobbered his highest first-class score of 270 against South Zone in the ongoing Duleep Trophy final in Chennai. Riding on his brilliant double hundred and a gritty century from Kumar Kushagra, East Zone posted their first-innings total in excess of 700 at stumps on day 2, marking only the third time in the tournament’s final history that a team has crossed the 700-run milestone. Resuming day two on 385 for four, Kishan (111*) and Kushagra (63*) began piling up runs and misery on South Zone bowlers. Mohammed Siraj, who went wicketless on day 1, tried hard – both with his pace and line and verbal volleys to unsettle the pair, but failed. MD Nidheesh too bowled his heart out with the new ball in his quest to break this partnership but tasted no success, as the two batters inched closer to their respective milestones. The two spinners, Tripurana Vijay and Shreyas Gopal, also kept persisting with defensive lines on either side of the drinks break but failed to provide any respite. Also read| Where to watch India vs Japan historic T20I: Channel and live streaming details The right-handed batter Kushagra completed his sixth first-class hundred soon after but lost his wicket before lunch on day two.

East Zone captain Ishan Kishan smashed a record-breaking 270 to propel his side to a colossal 708 against South Zone on Day 2 of the Duleep Trophy final in Chennai. Read the day report.&nbsp;

Ishan Kishan smashes 270 as East Zone rack up 708 in Duleep Trophy Final

South Africa recalled big guns like Quinton de Kock, David Miller and Temba Bavuma for the three-match ODI series against Australia later this month. Indicating plans for the 2027 ODI World Cup, co-hosted by South Africa, Namibia and Zimbabwe, the Proteas named Bavuma captain for the three-match series, while also recalling pacer Gerald Coetzee for the first time since the last ODI World Cup. Ace quick Kagiso Rabada remained absent from the 16-man squad as he recovers from a hamstring injury.<h3>South Africa squad for Australia ODIs -</h3>Temba Bavuma (captain), Ottneil Baartman, Corbin Bosch, Matthew Breetzke, Gerald Coetzee, Quinton de Kock, Tony de Zorzi, Bjorn Fortuin, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kwena Maphaka, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Ryan Rickelton and Tristan Stubbs &nbsp;De Kock and Miller, however, have been called up despite not being centrally contracted. Explaining de Kock's inclusion, South Africa head coach Shukri Conrad said ODI remains his best format, while he revealed why Miller will miss the home series against Bangladesh later this year.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-test-squad-south-africa-tour-marnus-labuschagne-retained-1788776862674">Marnus Labuschagne retains place in Australia squad for South Africa Tests; check full team</a> &nbsp;"Quinny (Quinton de Kock) is going to be playing whenever we need him to play. ODI cricket is probably Quinny's best format, and he will play all the ODIs. David will play Australia and probably miss Bangladesh because he has ILT20 commitments,” Shukri Conrad said on Monday (Sep 7). &nbsp;Speaking of the two pacers, Coetzee and Rabada, the head coach noted, "It's great to see Gerald back in the fold and, by all accounts, he's been bowling nice and quickly.” &nbsp;"KG is out of the ODIs, and we are constantly monitoring his rehabilitation. When we sit down to select a Test squad, we will make an informed decision. He is tracking nicely, going on reports from physios,” Conrad said of Rabada’s absence from this marquee home series.<h2>No Dewald Brevis for Australia ODIs</h2>With Miller, Matthew Breetzke and Tristan Stubbs making up the middle order, Dewald Brevis -- the top-scorer in the Namibia T20I series -- has missed out on the cut, and Conrad explains why.&nbsp; &nbsp;"Everybody that is not here or in the A side will be playing the first round of first-class cricket. And everyone not in the ODI squad will play in the second round. That includes Dewald. He competes for a spot in the middle order, and there he competes with Matthew Breetzke, Tristan Stubbs and David Miller. He will definitely get a crack in an ODI in the Bangladesh series,” Conrad said of Brevis’ absence. &nbsp;"We've got six ODIs before we play England. The England squad will be a shadow squad for the World Cup. We've got a few guys vying for space at the top in terms of Aiden, Ricks, Quinny and Tony. It's just about making sure everyone gets a fair crack at it," he continued.

Temba Bavuma returns as captain while Quinton de Kock and David Miller are recalled to South Africa's 16-man ODI squad for the upcoming three-match series against Australia.

South Africa recalled big guns like Quinton de Kock, David Miller and Temba Bavuma for the three-match ODI series against Australia later this month. Indicating plans for the 2027 ODI World Cup, co-hosted by South Africa, Namibia and Zimbabwe, the Proteas named Bavuma captain for the three-match series, while also recalling pacer Gerald Coetzee for the first time since the last ODI World Cup. Ace quick Kagiso Rabada remained absent from the 16-man squad as he recovers from a hamstring injury. South Africa squad for Australia ODIs - Temba Bavuma (captain), Ottneil Baartman, Corbin Bosch, Matthew Breetzke, Gerald Coetzee, Quinton de Kock, Tony de Zorzi, Bjorn Fortuin, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kwena Maphaka, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Ryan Rickelton and Tristan Stubbs De Kock and Miller, however, have been called up despite not being centrally contracted. Explaining de Kock's inclusion, South Africa head coach Shukri Conrad said ODI remains his best format, while he revealed why Miller will miss the home series against Bangladesh later this year. Also read| Marnus Labuschagne retains place in Australia squad for South Africa Tests; check full team "Quinny (Quinton de Kock) is going to be playing whenever we need him to play. ODI cricket is probably Quinny's best format, and he will play all the ODIs. David will play Australia and probably miss Bangladesh because he has ILT20 commitments,” Shukri Conrad said on Monday (Sep 7). Speaking of the two pacers, Coetzee and Rabada, the head coach noted, "It's great to see Gerald back in the fold and, by all accounts, he's been bowling nice and quickly.” "KG is out of the ODIs, and we are constantly monitoring his rehabilitation. When we sit down to select a Test squad, we will make an informed decision. He is tracking nicely, going on reports from physios,” Conrad said of Rabada’s absence from this marquee home series. No Dewald Brevis for Australia ODIs With Miller, Matthew Breetzke and Tristan Stubbs making up the middle order, Dewald Brevis -- the top-scorer in the Namibia T20I series -- has missed out on the cut, and Conrad explains why. "Everybody that is not here or in the A side will be playing the first round of first-class cricket. And everyone not in the ODI squad will play in the second round. That includes Dewald. He competes for a spot in the middle order, and there he competes with Matthew Breetzke, Tristan Stubbs and David Miller. He will definitely get a crack in an ODI in the Bangladesh series,” Conrad said of Brevis’ absence. "We've got six ODIs before we play England. The England squad will be a shadow squad for the World Cup. We've got a few guys vying for space at the top in terms of Aiden, Ricks, Quinny and Tony. It's just about making sure everyone gets a fair crack at it," he continued.

Temba Bavuma returns as captain while Quinton de Kock and David Miller are recalled to South Africa's 16-man ODI squad for the upcoming three-match series against Australia.

South Africa recall De Kock, Bavuma, Miller for ODI series against Australia

The ICC has penalised Pakistan women’s team captain Fatima Sana for her send-off to Indian opener Shafali Verma during their Asia Cup match in Dubai on Saturday (Sep 5). Sana has been fined 10 per cent of her match fee and handed a demerit point for her animated celebration after dismissing Verma in the first over of the run chase. It was Sana’s second offence in 24 months, taking her tally to two demerit points. &nbsp;The offence was a breach of Article 2.5 of the ICC's code of conduct for players and match officials, relating to "using language, actions or gestures which disparage, or which could provoke an aggressive reaction from a batter upon his/her dismissal during an international match". &nbsp;Chasing a mere 56, Verma took the attack to Pakistan’s new-ball bowler Sana for 10 runs in five balls, before a mistimed shot led to her dismissal, caught and bowled. Upbeat about dismissing the dangerous Verma, Sana pointed towards the dressing room as she celebrated the first wicket. That invited attention from the match officials, and subsequently a fine and demerit point.&nbsp;WATCH Sana's Celebration&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-pakistan-selector-misbah-ul-haq-calls-out-soft-corner-for-foreign-coaches-amid-ongoing-crisis-1788754524089">Former Pakistan selector Misbah-ul-haq calls out 'soft corner for foreign coaches' amid ongoing crisis</a> &nbsp;On-field umpires Nimali Perera and Shathira Jakir Jesy, third umpire Rokeya Sultana, and fourth umpire Rabab Ahsan charged Sana for her celebration, and the Pakistan women’s team captain admitted to the infringement in her meeting with match referee Supriya Rani Das. &nbsp;Meanwhile, India won the match by seven wickets and sealed the top spot in Group A. The spin quartet of N Shree Charani (3 for 7), Prema Rawat (3 for 9), Deepti Sharma (2 for 5) and Shafali (1 for 10) triggered Pakistan’s collapse, as they registered their lowest-ever T20I total. At one stage, Pakistan was 27 for no loss and lost all wickets for the next 28 runs. &nbsp;While India had already punched their semifinal ticket even before facing Pakistan, Sana-led women’s team must beat Hong Kong on Monday evening to enter the last four of this edition.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Fatima Sana turning up the heat despite the scoreline. 🥵 Watch India vs Pakistan LIVE NOW on Sony Sports Network TV channels &amp; Sony LIV.<a href="https://x.com/hashtag/SonySportsNetwork?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SonySportsNetwork</a> <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/SonyLIV?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SonyLIV</a> <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/DPWorldWomensAsiaCup2026?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DPWorldWomensAsiaCup2026</a> <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/NotAGentlemansGame?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NotAGentlemansGame</a> <a href="https://t.co/j2ohXqlZSV">pic.twitter.com/j2ohXqlZSV</a>&mdash; Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) <a href="https://x.com/SonySportsNetwk/status/2096277639266992409?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 5, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-pakistan-selector-misbah-ul-haq-calls-out-soft-corner-for-foreign-coaches-amid-ongoing-crisis-1788754524089">Former Pakistan selector Misbah-ul-Haq calls out 'soft corner for foreign coaches' amid ongoing crisis</a> &nbsp;On-field umpires Nimali Perera and Shathira Jakir Jesy, third umpire Rokeya Sultana, and fourth umpire Rabab Ahsan charged Sana for her celebration, and the Pakistan women’s team captain admitted to the infringement in her meeting with match referee Supriya Rani Das. &nbsp;Meanwhile, India won the match by seven wickets and sealed the top spot in Group A. The spin quartet of N Shree Charani (3 for 7), Prema Rawat (3 for 9), Deepti Sharma (2 for 5) and Shafali (1 for 10) triggered Pakistan’s collapse, as they registered their lowest-ever T20I total. At one stage, Pakistan was 27 for no loss and lost all wickets for the next 28 runs. &nbsp;While India had already punched their semifinal ticket even before facing Pakistan, Sana-led women’s team must beat Hong Kong on Monday evening to enter the last four of this edition.

Pakistan women's captain Fatima Sana has been fined 10% of her match fee by the ICC for a send-off to India's Shafali Verma during the Women's Asia Cup.

The ICC has penalised Pakistan women’s team captain Fatima Sana for her send-off to Indian opener Shafali Verma during their Asia Cup match in Dubai on Saturday (Sep 5). Sana has been fined 10 per cent of her match fee and handed a demerit point for her animated celebration after dismissing Verma in the first over of the run chase. It was Sana’s second offence in 24 months, taking her tally to two demerit points. The offence was a breach of Article 2.5 of the ICC's code of conduct for players and match officials, relating to "using language, actions or gestures which disparage, or which could provoke an aggressive reaction from a batter upon his/her dismissal during an international match". Chasing a mere 56, Verma took the attack to Pakistan’s new-ball bowler Sana for 10 runs in five balls, before a mistimed shot led to her dismissal, caught and bowled. Upbeat about dismissing the dangerous Verma, Sana pointed towards the dressing room as she celebrated the first wicket. That invited attention from the match officials, and subsequently a fine and demerit point. WATCH Sana's Celebration Also read| Former Pakistan selector Misbah-ul-haq calls out 'soft corner for foreign coaches' amid ongoing crisis On-field umpires Nimali Perera and Shathira Jakir Jesy, third umpire Rokeya Sultana, and fourth umpire Rabab Ahsan charged Sana for her celebration, and the Pakistan women’s team captain admitted to the infringement in her meeting with match referee Supriya Rani Das. Meanwhile, India won the match by seven wickets and sealed the top spot in Group A. The spin quartet of N Shree Charani (3 for 7), Prema Rawat (3 for 9), Deepti Sharma (2 for 5) and Shafali (1 for 10) triggered Pakistan’s collapse, as they registered their lowest-ever T20I total. At one stage, Pakistan was 27 for no loss and lost all wickets for the next 28 runs. While India had already punched their semifinal ticket even before facing Pakistan, Sana-led women’s team must beat Hong Kong on Monday evening to enter the last four of this edition.

Pakistan women's captain Fatima Sana has been fined 10% of her match fee by the ICC for a send-off to India's Shafali Verma during the Women's Asia Cup.

Pakistan women’s captain Fatima Sana penalised for Shafali Verma send-off

Kevin Pietersen, former England captain and their poster boy during his cricketing days, has returned to England’s white-ball set-up as a ‘specialist mentor’, the board announced on Monday. KP, whose England career ended in controversy 12 years ago, will be back with the Three Lions, but this time as part of the backroom staff. Pietersen will begin in his role during the home six-match white-ball series against Sri Lanka later this month, including three ODIs and as many T20Is. &nbsp;Pietersen previously mentored Delhi Capitals in the IPL and briefly worked with England’s batters during an away ODI series in South Africa in 2023. &nbsp;"I am immensely proud to have been asked to help this team on their journey to win a World Cup in South Africa," Pietersen said on his appointment. "Putting on the England uniform again for the first time since 2014 is a profound honour and a deeply special moment. &nbsp;"We have an incredibly talented white-ball squad, and I am excited to get in the trenches and work relentlessly hard with these players to maximise their potential. To be a part of Brendon's think-tank over the next 12 months is a fantastic opportunity, and I cannot wait to get started,” he continued.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-test-squad-south-africa-tour-marnus-labuschagne-retained-1788776862674">Marnus Labuschagne retains place in Australia squad for South Africa Tests; check full team</a> &nbsp;Since retiring from cricket in 2018, KP has mostly worked as a broadcaster and was critical of head coach Brendon McCullum’s England team environment during their tour of India in early 2025. However, despite sharing differing views on McCullum-led England’s performance and dressing room environment, the two will work together, with the 2027 ODI World Cup in sight. &nbsp;"I've got immense respect for KP and what he's achieved in the game. He's had an amazing impact on English cricket, so for someone with his experience, knowledge and stature to want to play a role with this team is a fantastic result,” McCullum said of Pietersen, against whom he has played plenty of international cricket. &nbsp;"I'm particularly excited for our batters to get the opportunity to work with him. KP has a unique understanding of what it takes to perform at the highest level, which will be hugely valuable to our players. We've always respected each other and had a strong appreciation for what the other brings to the game, so I'm really looking forward to working together,” England’s white-ball coach continued. &nbsp;Pietersen has had a decorated England career. Having won four Ashes series, including the away series in 2010/11, KP is also a T20 World Cup winner with Three Lions in 2010, and has captained England across two formats: Tests and ODIs.&nbsp;

Former England captain Kevin Pietersen returns to the national setup as a specialist mentor for the men's white-ball team under head coach Brendon McCullum.

Kevin Pietersen, former England captain and their poster boy during his cricketing days, has returned to England’s white-ball set-up as a ‘specialist mentor’, the board announced on Monday. KP, whose England career ended in controversy 12 years ago, will be back with the Three Lions, but this time as part of the backroom staff. Pietersen will begin in his role during the home six-match white-ball series against Sri Lanka later this month, including three ODIs and as many T20Is. Pietersen previously mentored Delhi Capitals in the IPL and briefly worked with England’s batters during an away ODI series in South Africa in 2023. "I am immensely proud to have been asked to help this team on their journey to win a World Cup in South Africa," Pietersen said on his appointment. "Putting on the England uniform again for the first time since 2014 is a profound honour and a deeply special moment. "We have an incredibly talented white-ball squad, and I am excited to get in the trenches and work relentlessly hard with these players to maximise their potential. To be a part of Brendon's think-tank over the next 12 months is a fantastic opportunity, and I cannot wait to get started,” he continued. Also read| Marnus Labuschagne retains place in Australia squad for South Africa Tests; check full team Since retiring from cricket in 2018, KP has mostly worked as a broadcaster and was critical of head coach Brendon McCullum’s England team environment during their tour of India in early 2025. However, despite sharing differing views on McCullum-led England’s performance and dressing room environment, the two will work together, with the 2027 ODI World Cup in sight. "I've got immense respect for KP and what he's achieved in the game. He's had an amazing impact on English cricket, so for someone with his experience, knowledge and stature to want to play a role with this team is a fantastic result,” McCullum said of Pietersen, against whom he has played plenty of international cricket. "I'm particularly excited for our batters to get the opportunity to work with him. KP has a unique understanding of what it takes to perform at the highest level, which will be hugely valuable to our players. We've always respected each other and had a strong appreciation for what the other brings to the game, so I'm really looking forward to working together,” England’s white-ball coach continued. Pietersen has had a decorated England career. Having won four Ashes series, including the away series in 2010/11, KP is also a T20 World Cup winner with Three Lions in 2010, and has captained England across two formats: Tests and ODIs.

Former England captain Kevin Pietersen returns to the national setup as a specialist mentor for the men's white-ball team under head coach Brendon McCullum.

Kevin Pietersen named England's 'specialist mentor' for white-ball cricket

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