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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

Out-of-form Marnus Labuschagne can ‘still make a positive contribution’, chief Australia selector George Bailey said on Monday, after the struggling batter was thrown a lifeline for the Test tour of South Africa. Test number three, Labuschagne has failed to score a century since 2023 and flopped again in two home Tests against Bangladesh last month with scores of one, 31 and four. He was subsequently axed from Australia's squad for three One-Dayers in Zimbabwe and another three in South Africa preceding the Tests. But selectors opted against a red-ball change for what will be the team's first Test series in South Africa since the infamous "Sandpaper gate" ball-tampering scandal in 2018. &nbsp;"(We're) not shying away from the fact that we'd like some more runs from Marn (Marnus)... but we're also confident that he can still make a positive contribution to that squad," Bailey said. "Our batting group in its entirety, not just Marn, probably hasn't been functioning as successfully as we would like." &nbsp;Asked if the South Africa series would be Labuschagne's last chance, Bailey dodged the question. &nbsp;"No, I wouldn't say that. But again, it's a hypothetical, isn't it?" he said.&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;Cooper Connolly, Matthew Kuhnemann and Michael Neser were also included in a 16-man squad which was otherwise unchanged from the last Bangladesh Test. All-rounder Connolly's selection is another indication that the 23-year-old is seen as a long-term prospect, while Kuhnemann was preferred to Todd Murphy as the second spinner behind Nathan Lyon. &nbsp;Neser, who, like Labuschagne, was born in South Africa, provides back-up for the pace trio of Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc. Bailey said Connolly was primarily chosen for his batting, most likely as a middle-order option but potentially as high as three. &nbsp;"His overall development will continue to expand his ability to bat in a range of positions," he said. &nbsp;Australia will travel to Durban for the first Test on October 9 before the series moves to Gqeberha and Cape Town for the remaining Tests. &nbsp;Only Cummins, Starc, Hazlewood, Lyon, Steve Smith and Matt Renshaw survive from their last Test series in South Africa, when Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft were all sent home in shame. Smith was banned for a year and sacked as captain after conspiring to alter the ball using sandpaper during the third Test in Cape Town, while the now-retired Warner, considered the ringleader, was suspended for 12 months and stripped of all leadership roles.<h3>Australia Test squad for South Africa series -</h3>Pat Cummins (captain), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cooper Connolly, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matthew Kuhnemann, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Michael Neser, Matthew Renshaw, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc and Beau Webster

Marnus Labuschagne retains his place in Australia's 16-man Test squad for the upcoming tour of South Africa. Chief selector George Bailey backs the struggling batter alongside new inclusions Cooper Connolly and Michael Neser.

Out-of-form Marnus Labuschagne can ‘still make a positive contribution’, chief Australia selector George Bailey said on Monday, after the struggling batter was thrown a lifeline for the Test tour of South Africa. Test number three, Labuschagne has failed to score a century since 2023 and flopped again in two home Tests against Bangladesh last month with scores of one, 31 and four. He was subsequently axed from Australia's squad for three One-Dayers in Zimbabwe and another three in South Africa preceding the Tests. But selectors opted against a red-ball change for what will be the team's first Test series in South Africa since the infamous "Sandpaper gate" ball-tampering scandal in 2018. "(We're) not shying away from the fact that we'd like some more runs from Marn (Marnus)... but we're also confident that he can still make a positive contribution to that squad," Bailey said. "Our batting group in its entirety, not just Marn, probably hasn't been functioning as successfully as we would like." Asked if the South Africa series would be Labuschagne's last chance, Bailey dodged the question. "No, I wouldn't say that. But again, it's a hypothetical, isn't it?" he said. Also read| Former Pakistan selector Misbah-ul-haq calls out 'soft corner for foreign coaches' amid ongoing crisis Cooper Connolly, Matthew Kuhnemann and Michael Neser were also included in a 16-man squad which was otherwise unchanged from the last Bangladesh Test. All-rounder Connolly's selection is another indication that the 23-year-old is seen as a long-term prospect, while Kuhnemann was preferred to Todd Murphy as the second spinner behind Nathan Lyon. Neser, who, like Labuschagne, was born in South Africa, provides back-up for the pace trio of Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc. Bailey said Connolly was primarily chosen for his batting, most likely as a middle-order option but potentially as high as three. "His overall development will continue to expand his ability to bat in a range of positions," he said. Australia will travel to Durban for the first Test on October 9 before the series moves to Gqeberha and Cape Town for the remaining Tests. Only Cummins, Starc, Hazlewood, Lyon, Steve Smith and Matt Renshaw survive from their last Test series in South Africa, when Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft were all sent home in shame. Smith was banned for a year and sacked as captain after conspiring to alter the ball using sandpaper during the third Test in Cape Town, while the now-retired Warner, considered the ringleader, was suspended for 12 months and stripped of all leadership roles. Australia Test squad for South Africa series - Pat Cummins (captain), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cooper Connolly, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matthew Kuhnemann, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Michael Neser, Matthew Renshaw, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc and Beau Webster

Marnus Labuschagne retains his place in Australia's 16-man Test squad for the upcoming tour of South Africa. Chief selector George Bailey backs the struggling batter alongside new inclusions Cooper Connolly and Michael Neser.

Marnus Labuschagne retains place in Australia squad for South Africa Tests; check full team

Former Pakistan skipper and selector Misbah-ul-Haq has called out Pakistan cricket for treating foreign and local coaches differently. The statement comes amid the ongoing crisis in Pakistan Cricket after losing the first two Tests of the three-match series in England. Pakistan lost the first Test by an innings and 103 runs and the second one by 194 runs, after which seven players as well as red-ball head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul were sacked. Mike Hesson, the white-ball coach, took over the red-ball duties for the upcoming third Test, which begins on September 9. Misbah, who was part of the selection committee, also resigned amid the wholesale changes.<h2>Misbah calls out difference in treatment between local and foreign coaches in Pakistan cricket</h2>The crisis in Pakistan cricket doesn't seem to be stopping anytime soon, and Misbah, while talking on a television show as reported by news agency PTI, said: "It is a fact that local and foreign coaches are treated differently in Pakistan cricket. Local coaches have to face more scrutiny and criticism when compared to foreign coaches. I don’t think there is anything wrong with having foreign coaches, but what bothers me is that we (fans, critics, media, PCB) tend to have a soft corner for foreign coaches."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mohammad-yousuf-2021-india-win-triggered-pakistan-cricket-downfall-1788698593274">Mohammad Yousuf reveals how 2021 India win triggered Pakistan cricket’s downfall</a>The former skipper, under whom Pakistan reached the summit of the ICC Test rankings for the last time, also pointed to arch-rivals India's planned growth as the difference."India took time to process and develop, and they made gradual investments in their system after the '90s. There is no quick fix to the system," he said. "Our youngsters are playing too much white-ball cricket, and their exposure to red-ball cricket is limited. Not enough four-day cricket. This means they have a higher chance of cracking under pressure."<h2>What next for Pakistan?</h2>Pakistan's first assignment is to show some fight in the third and final Test against England, which starts on September 9 at Edgbaston. They are currently ranked at the bottom of the <a href="https://www.icc-cricket.com/tournaments/world-test-championship/standings">World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 points table</a>. A win against England, if they get one, won't be of much help to their aspirations of making it to the WTC 2025-27 final, but it might put them on the road to recovery from the current dilapidated situation.

Former skipper Misbah-ul-Haq criticized the PCB for treating local coaches harsher than foreign ones amid a crisis following Pakistan's heavy Test losses to England and sweeping squad changes.

Former Pakistan skipper and selector Misbah-ul-Haq has called out Pakistan cricket for treating foreign and local coaches differently. The statement comes amid the ongoing crisis in Pakistan Cricket after losing the first two Tests of the three-match series in England. Pakistan lost the first Test by an innings and 103 runs and the second one by 194 runs, after which seven players as well as red-ball head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul were sacked. Mike Hesson, the white-ball coach, took over the red-ball duties for the upcoming third Test, which begins on September 9. Misbah, who was part of the selection committee, also resigned amid the wholesale changes. Misbah calls out difference in treatment between local and foreign coaches in Pakistan cricket The crisis in Pakistan cricket doesn't seem to be stopping anytime soon, and Misbah, while talking on a television show as reported by news agency PTI, said: "It is a fact that local and foreign coaches are treated differently in Pakistan cricket. Local coaches have to face more scrutiny and criticism when compared to foreign coaches. I don’t think there is anything wrong with having foreign coaches, but what bothers me is that we (fans, critics, media, PCB) tend to have a soft corner for foreign coaches." Also Read - Mohammad Yousuf reveals how 2021 India win triggered Pakistan cricket’s downfall The former skipper, under whom Pakistan reached the summit of the ICC Test rankings for the last time, also pointed to arch-rivals India's planned growth as the difference. "India took time to process and develop, and they made gradual investments in their system after the '90s. There is no quick fix to the system," he said. "Our youngsters are playing too much white-ball cricket, and their exposure to red-ball cricket is limited. Not enough four-day cricket. This means they have a higher chance of cracking under pressure." What next for Pakistan? Pakistan's first assignment is to show some fight in the third and final Test against England, which starts on September 9 at Edgbaston. They are currently ranked at the bottom of the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 points table. A win against England, if they get one, won't be of much help to their aspirations of making it to the WTC 2025-27 final, but it might put them on the road to recovery from the current dilapidated situation.

Former skipper Misbah-ul-Haq criticized the PCB for treating local coaches harsher than foreign ones amid a crisis following Pakistan's heavy Test losses to England and sweeping squad changes.

Former Pakistan selector Misbah-ul-haq calls out 'soft corner for foreign coaches' amid ongoing crisis

India and Japan are working to finalise broadcasters for their historic one-off T20I on September 22 at Sano International Stadium in Tochigi Prefecture, coinciding with women’s cricket at the Asian Games 2026 in Aichi-Nagoya. While the Japan Cricket Association (JCA) is in talks with ITW Universe to secure broadcasting rights for the marquee match against the Men in Blue, FanCode, the Indian digital sports platform that has collaborated extensively with the JCA on pathway competitions, will livestream this match in India. &nbsp;Finding broadcasters for this one-off match between unevenly matched T20I teams will pose logistical and operational challenges for the organisers. Considering all factors, telecasting the game live on YouTube with minimal production was also an option. Though that could still happen for the global audience, the JCA and the BCCI are believed to be locking in linear broadcasting partners for this historic one-off T20I.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asian-games-2026-ioa-bcci-cricket-logistics-1788598143640">Asian Games 2026: IOA tells BCCI 'no special treatment' for cricket, asks board to handle own logistics</a> &nbsp;ITW Universe, which leads the race to become JCA’s broadcasting partners for this historic face-off, is also reportedly in talks with Star, Sony and Zee for the linear rights in India.<h2>Early Challenges</h2>The first hurdle for ITW and JCA is that the women’s gold-medal match is scheduled on the same day at the Kōrogi Sports Park in Nisshin City, Aichi. With the Indian women’s cricket team among the favourites to reach the final, there is a serious possibility that the men’s and the women’s matches could clash.&nbsp; &nbsp;Sony Network, however, is the media rights holder for the Asian Games 2026. &nbsp;Meanwhile, the organisers also explored staging an India-Japan T20I match the next day on September 23 to avoid the clash; however, the Asian Games schedule for the Japan men’s cricket team proved to be a roadblock. Japan is due to travel to Aichi the next day, on September 24, for their first group game against Afghanistan, with the two cities being 400 km apart. &nbsp;The travelling Indian Team will reach the venue city on September 20 and is scheduled to train the next day. The travelling squad would likely stay in Sano for a few days before moving to Aichi for their scheduled Asian Games matches. India will begin its tournament with a quarterfinal clash on September 28. &nbsp;For this historic fixture, the JCA also confirmed that the Sano International Cricket Ground, which has a seating capacity of 500, will be transformed for the India match. The organisers are expected to turn it into a 2,000-chair facility.<h3>Where and when will India vs Japan T20I take place?</h3>The one-off historic T20I between India and Japan will take place on September 22 at Sano International Stadium in Tochigi Prefecture.<h3>What time will India vs Japan T20I start?</h3>The first-ever senior men’s T20I match between India and Japan will start at 09:30 AM IST (1 PM local time).<h3>Where can we watch live coverage of India vs Japan T20I?</h3>FanCode will live-stream this match between India and Japan, while linear broadcasters are yet to be finalised.&nbsp;

India and Japan are finalizing broadcast partners for their historic one-off T20I on September 22 in Sano. Get live streaming, TV channel, and match detail updates here.

India and Japan are working to finalise broadcasters for their historic one-off T20I on September 22 at Sano International Stadium in Tochigi Prefecture, coinciding with women’s cricket at the Asian Games 2026 in Aichi-Nagoya. While the Japan Cricket Association (JCA) is in talks with ITW Universe to secure broadcasting rights for the marquee match against the Men in Blue, FanCode, the Indian digital sports platform that has collaborated extensively with the JCA on pathway competitions, will livestream this match in India. Finding broadcasters for this one-off match between unevenly matched T20I teams will pose logistical and operational challenges for the organisers. Considering all factors, telecasting the game live on YouTube with minimal production was also an option. Though that could still happen for the global audience, the JCA and the BCCI are believed to be locking in linear broadcasting partners for this historic one-off T20I. Also read| Asian Games 2026: IOA tells BCCI 'no special treatment' for cricket, asks board to handle own logistics ITW Universe, which leads the race to become JCA’s broadcasting partners for this historic face-off, is also reportedly in talks with Star, Sony and Zee for the linear rights in India. Early Challenges The first hurdle for ITW and JCA is that the women’s gold-medal match is scheduled on the same day at the Kōrogi Sports Park in Nisshin City, Aichi. With the Indian women’s cricket team among the favourites to reach the final, there is a serious possibility that the men’s and the women’s matches could clash. Sony Network, however, is the media rights holder for the Asian Games 2026. Meanwhile, the organisers also explored staging an India-Japan T20I match the next day on September 23 to avoid the clash; however, the Asian Games schedule for the Japan men’s cricket team proved to be a roadblock. Japan is due to travel to Aichi the next day, on September 24, for their first group game against Afghanistan, with the two cities being 400 km apart. The travelling Indian Team will reach the venue city on September 20 and is scheduled to train the next day. The travelling squad would likely stay in Sano for a few days before moving to Aichi for their scheduled Asian Games matches. India will begin its tournament with a quarterfinal clash on September 28. For this historic fixture, the JCA also confirmed that the Sano International Cricket Ground, which has a seating capacity of 500, will be transformed for the India match. The organisers are expected to turn it into a 2,000-chair facility. Where and when will India vs Japan T20I take place? The one-off historic T20I between India and Japan will take place on September 22 at Sano International Stadium in Tochigi Prefecture. What time will India vs Japan T20I start? The first-ever senior men’s T20I match between India and Japan will start at 09:30 AM IST (1 PM local time). Where can we watch live coverage of India vs Japan T20I? FanCode will live-stream this match between India and Japan, while linear broadcasters are yet to be finalised.

India and Japan are finalizing broadcast partners for their historic one-off T20I on September 22 in Sano. Get live streaming, TV channel, and match detail updates here.

Where to watch India vs Japan historic T20I: Channel and live streaming details

Pakistan has beaten India only once across both World Cup formats (ODI and T20I): during the 2021 T20 WC clash in Dubai. Test captain Babar Azam and keeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan stitched a stunning 152-run stand for the opening wicket as Pakistan chased the target with 10 wickets remaining. While that win was monumental for the Men in Green, considering they had not beaten India on the biggest stage until then, it had its cons too, with former Pakistan batter Mohammad Yousuf pointing out how it damaged Pakistan cricket more. &nbsp;Ironically, India worked on its T20 approach following that edition and later won two back-to-back T20 World Cups in 2024 and 2026; the opposite happened for their arch-rivals. Possessing emerging superstars in their ranks during that Dubai T20 World Cup fixture in 2021, including Rizwan and Shaheen Shah Afridi, Pakistan’s cricket went downhill after that crushing win, with Yousuf explaining how. &nbsp;“That match which we won against India in 2021, that damaged us a lot. Because after that victory, players started to think that they had achieved something big. They couldn’t understand what they had to do next. When you are performing well, you should stay humble. If you behave with your collar raised and get disrespectful, problems will arrive. And a lot of them have arrived in Pakistan cricket,” said Yousuf in a conversation on Samaa TV. &nbsp;Exposing loopholes in the Pakistan Team following Dubai’s miracle, Yousuf revealed how success went to their heads, and all began chasing Pakistan’s captaincy.&nbsp; &nbsp;“Everyone in the team was trying to become the captain of the Pakistan team. The consequences are still hurting Pakistan cricket. Look at all the cricket Pakistan has played in the last four to five years, from ODI World Cups, T20 World Cups to Asia Cups and Champions Trophy. There has been terrible cricket. The PCB has been supporting you throughout. So many coaches have come and gone, so many things have changed just to try and help the Pakistan team. But no player has stood up and taken responsibility. Eventually, PCB had to take a step that it did. I back what PCB did,” added Yousuf.<h2>Yousuf on PCB Dropping 7 Players from UK Tour</h2>Turmoil gripped Pakistan cricket after they lost at Lord’s and conceded the three-match Test series (2-0) with one game to go. While the PCB faced severe backlash for dropping seven first-squad players and releasing head coach (Sarfaraz Ahmed) and bowling coach (Umar Gul) in a wider clean-up, Yousuf backed the country’s board for making such drastic changes midway through the series.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pcb-seizes-pakistan-players-mobile-phones-edgbaston-test-1788691929281">‘Jail-Like Environment’: PCB seizes Pakistan players' phones ahead of Edgbaston Test — Report</a> &nbsp;“Yes, there is no issue with when the PCB have taken action. The Pakistan team is ninth in the World Test Championship standings. They are ninth because there are only nine teams in the table. Pakistan’s reputation is getting ruined. So, when that’s happening, the board has to take some steps to improve,” the batting veteran noted. &nbsp;“I don’t see an issue with the PCB reaction. Because the team has been playing terrible cricket. It’s not just this one series against England. We played in the T20 World Cup final in 2022 and played in an Asia Cup final as well, but since those finals, just look at the performances coming out of this Pakistan team,” Yousuf concluded.

Mohammad Yousuf reveals how Pakistan's historic 10-wicket victory over India in the 2021 T20 World Cup sparked overconfidence, internal strife, and the team's ongoing crisis.

Pakistan has beaten India only once across both World Cup formats (ODI and T20I): during the 2021 T20 WC clash in Dubai. Test captain Babar Azam and keeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan stitched a stunning 152-run stand for the opening wicket as Pakistan chased the target with 10 wickets remaining. While that win was monumental for the Men in Green, considering they had not beaten India on the biggest stage until then, it had its cons too, with former Pakistan batter Mohammad Yousuf pointing out how it damaged Pakistan cricket more. Ironically, India worked on its T20 approach following that edition and later won two back-to-back T20 World Cups in 2024 and 2026; the opposite happened for their arch-rivals. Possessing emerging superstars in their ranks during that Dubai T20 World Cup fixture in 2021, including Rizwan and Shaheen Shah Afridi, Pakistan’s cricket went downhill after that crushing win, with Yousuf explaining how. “That match which we won against India in 2021, that damaged us a lot. Because after that victory, players started to think that they had achieved something big. They couldn’t understand what they had to do next. When you are performing well, you should stay humble. If you behave with your collar raised and get disrespectful, problems will arrive. And a lot of them have arrived in Pakistan cricket,” said Yousuf in a conversation on Samaa TV. Exposing loopholes in the Pakistan Team following Dubai’s miracle, Yousuf revealed how success went to their heads, and all began chasing Pakistan’s captaincy. “Everyone in the team was trying to become the captain of the Pakistan team. The consequences are still hurting Pakistan cricket. Look at all the cricket Pakistan has played in the last four to five years, from ODI World Cups, T20 World Cups to Asia Cups and Champions Trophy. There has been terrible cricket. The PCB has been supporting you throughout. So many coaches have come and gone, so many things have changed just to try and help the Pakistan team. But no player has stood up and taken responsibility. Eventually, PCB had to take a step that it did. I back what PCB did,” added Yousuf. Yousuf on PCB Dropping 7 Players from UK Tour Turmoil gripped Pakistan cricket after they lost at Lord’s and conceded the three-match Test series (2-0) with one game to go. While the PCB faced severe backlash for dropping seven first-squad players and releasing head coach (Sarfaraz Ahmed) and bowling coach (Umar Gul) in a wider clean-up, Yousuf backed the country’s board for making such drastic changes midway through the series. Also read| ‘Jail-Like Environment’: PCB seizes Pakistan players' phones ahead of Edgbaston Test — Report “Yes, there is no issue with when the PCB have taken action. The Pakistan team is ninth in the World Test Championship standings. They are ninth because there are only nine teams in the table. Pakistan’s reputation is getting ruined. So, when that’s happening, the board has to take some steps to improve,” the batting veteran noted. “I don’t see an issue with the PCB reaction. Because the team has been playing terrible cricket. It’s not just this one series against England. We played in the T20 World Cup final in 2022 and played in an Asia Cup final as well, but since those finals, just look at the performances coming out of this Pakistan team,” Yousuf concluded.

Mohammad Yousuf reveals how Pakistan's historic 10-wicket victory over India in the 2021 T20 World Cup sparked overconfidence, internal strife, and the team's ongoing crisis.

‘10-wicket win against India in Dubai cost us’: Mohammad Yousuf on when Pakistan cricket's downfall began

Day one of the Duleep Trophy final is over, and Ishan Kishan’s East Zone is sitting in the driver’s seat. Captain Kishan scored an unbeaten 111, and fifties from Abhimanyu Easwaran (72), Shikhar Mohan (85) and Kumar Kushagra (63*) helped East Zone post 385 for four at stumps on the first day at Chepauk in Chennai. South Zone bowlers, including ace Indian quick Mohammed Siraj, struggled to break through, with left-arm medium pacer Chama V Milind returning with two wickets so far. Batting prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi too made a statement in his first-ever five-day first-class game, scoring a quickfire 44 at the top. &nbsp;Sooryavanshi and Easwaran opened the innings and added exactly 100 for the first wicket inside the first 15 overs. The left-hander carried his blistering form into the final by taking on India teammate Siraj early in the innings, smashing him for two fours and a six in one over. His fearless approach and stylish stroke-making forced South Zone captain Tilak Varma to spread his field inside the first session, with Vaibhav hammering five fours and a maximum during his brief stay.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ishan-kishan-mohammed-shami-india-comeback-duleep-trophy-final-1788621048473">'He has that hunger for India comeback': Ishan Kishan hails Mohammed Shami ahead of Duleep Trophy final</a> &nbsp;WATCH Vaibhav smashing Siraj in Duleep Trophy Final –

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">4️⃣,6️⃣,4️⃣ Vaibhav Sooryavanshi on the charge with some delightful shots 🔥 The 50-run stand also comes up between Vaibhav and Abhimanyu Easwaran 🙌 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/0XLR4LI50R">pic.twitter.com/0XLR4LI50R</a>&mdash; BCCI Domestic (@BCCIdomestic) <a href="https://x.com/BCCIdomestic/status/2096460509927383284?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 6, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Vaibhav’s dismissal brought Mohan to the crease, with the two adding 33 for the second wicket, before a mix-up led to Easwaran’s run-out on 72. Sudeep Kumar departed soon after on just six as East Zone lost three wickets after lunch on day one. &nbsp;Captain Kishan joined Mohan in the middle, and the pair began building a crucial partnership. It flourished as the two stitched 94 for the fourth wicket, only for Mohan to be bowled by Milind on 85.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Chama Milind struck on the stroke of tea to dismiss the set Shikhar Mohan (85) 🙌 East Zone go into tea at 246/4! 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/x7fOUMaVki">pic.twitter.com/x7fOUMaVki</a>&mdash; BCCI Domestic (@BCCIdomestic) <a href="https://x.com/BCCIdomestic/status/2096528014456840476?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 6, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Kishan, on the other hand, had a new partner in Kushagra, as the two batted through the final session to see their team dominating the opposition in the Duleep Trophy Final. &nbsp;While Kushagra remained unbeaten on 63, Kishan led from the front, smashing a brilliant hundred in the game that mattered the most. The left-hander hit 15 fours and a six to reach three figures.&nbsp;WATCH -

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">💯 for Ishan Kishan 👏 He brings it up in style 💥 The East Zone captain leading from the front with a superb knock 🙌 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/ql9el4G60Q">pic.twitter.com/ql9el4G60Q</a>&mdash; BCCI Domestic (@BCCIdomestic) <a href="https://x.com/BCCIdomestic/status/2096560968147128384?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 6, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Ishan Kishan’s unbeaten 111 and fifties from Easwaran, Mohan, and Kushagra powered East Zone to a dominant 385/4 on Day 1 of the Duleep Trophy Final against South Zone.

Day one of the Duleep Trophy final is over, and Ishan Kishan’s East Zone is sitting in the driver’s seat. Captain Kishan scored an unbeaten 111, and fifties from Abhimanyu Easwaran (72), Shikhar Mohan (85) and Kumar Kushagra (63*) helped East Zone post 385 for four at stumps on the first day at Chepauk in Chennai. South Zone bowlers, including ace Indian quick Mohammed Siraj, struggled to break through, with left-arm medium pacer Chama V Milind returning with two wickets so far. Batting prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi too made a statement in his first-ever five-day first-class game, scoring a quickfire 44 at the top. Sooryavanshi and Easwaran opened the innings and added exactly 100 for the first wicket inside the first 15 overs. The left-hander carried his blistering form into the final by taking on India teammate Siraj early in the innings, smashing him for two fours and a six in one over. His fearless approach and stylish stroke-making forced South Zone captain Tilak Varma to spread his field inside the first session, with Vaibhav hammering five fours and a maximum during his brief stay. Also read| 'He has that hunger for India comeback': Ishan Kishan hails Mohammed Shami ahead of Duleep Trophy final WATCH Vaibhav smashing Siraj in Duleep Trophy Final –

Ishan Kishan’s unbeaten 111 and fifties from Easwaran, Mohan, and Kushagra powered East Zone to a dominant 385/4 on Day 1 of the Duleep Trophy Final against South Zone.

Duleep Trophy Final: Ishan Kishan’s unbeaten 111 powers East Zone to 385/4 on day 1

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) seemed to have hit rock bottom following the Lord’s Test defeat. Days after Pakistan dropped seven first-team players, including Salman Agha, Mohammad Rizwan and Imam-ul-Haq, and released head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul, the PCB has sunk lower by taking away the mobile phones of several unnamed players ahead of the third Test at Edgbaston. Latest reports suggest that the PCB confiscated mobile devices and is unlikely to return them to the players unless the last ball of the third Test is bowled. &nbsp;For whatever reason, be it for suspicion of match- or spot-fixing, keeping players away from online backlash, or to keep them away from phones during an internal investigation after the series loss in the UK, the PCB has created a ‘jail-like’ environment for the players.&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 a Pakistan 365 report did not identify the players whose mobile phones the PCB took away, the cricket board also hasn’t publicly stated why the mobile devices are in its custody. This development, moreover, has raised questions about the extent of the authorities’ ‘power over the players’, particularly regarding seizing their personal items like mobile phones. &nbsp;Meanwhile, under the ICC’s Player and Match Officials Area regulations, all international players and the team’s support staff are not allowed to have access to mobile phones or any other communication device inside the restricted areas, including the dressing rooms and dugouts. &nbsp;Players are also expected to submit their communication devices in secure storage before entering restricted areas. The main purpose of these regulations is to protect the integrity of international matches and prevent unauthorised communication.<h2>Changes since Lord’s Test defeat</h2>Since surrendering the three-match Test series at Lord’s, where Pakistan failed to cross 200 across both innings, the PCB made drastic changes, with several more happening in the background. Amid dropping and releasing players and the support staff, Pakistan roped in seven new faces, including five uncapped cricketers.&nbsp; &nbsp;Mike Hesson and Ashley Noffke, Pakistan’s white-ball coaches, have been asked to take up the coaching responsibilities for the final Test in Birmingham.&nbsp; &nbsp;The PCB also issued a show-cause notice to the four-member selection committee, seeking a response within 24 hours on the inclusion of Rizwan and Imam in the squads for the away tours of the West Indies and England.&nbsp; &nbsp;Misbah-ul-Haq, one of the four members, also tendered his resignation a day after the PCB made wholesale changes to the main-team roster, with the PCB rejecting it.&nbsp; &nbsp;Meanwhile, England lead the three-match series 2-0, with the final Test starting next Wednesday (Sep 9).&nbsp;

The PCB has reportedly confiscated the mobile phones of several Pakistan players ahead of the Edgbaston Test against England. Read more about the 'jail-like' environment and ICC rules.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) seemed to have hit rock bottom following the Lord’s Test defeat. Days after Pakistan dropped seven first-team players, including Salman Agha, Mohammad Rizwan and Imam-ul-Haq, and released head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul, the PCB has sunk lower by taking away the mobile phones of several unnamed players ahead of the third Test at Edgbaston. Latest reports suggest that the PCB confiscated mobile devices and is unlikely to return them to the players unless the last ball of the third Test is bowled. For whatever reason, be it for suspicion of match- or spot-fixing, keeping players away from online backlash, or to keep them away from phones during an internal investigation after the series loss in the UK, the PCB has created a ‘jail-like’ environment for the players. Also read| All out for 55 vs India, coach Wahab Riaz bizarrely claims Pakistan as ‘Best Team in Asia Cup’ Although a Pakistan 365 report did not identify the players whose mobile phones the PCB took away, the cricket board also hasn’t publicly stated why the mobile devices are in its custody. This development, moreover, has raised questions about the extent of the authorities’ ‘power over the players’, particularly regarding seizing their personal items like mobile phones. Meanwhile, under the ICC’s Player and Match Officials Area regulations, all international players and the team’s support staff are not allowed to have access to mobile phones or any other communication device inside the restricted areas, including the dressing rooms and dugouts. Players are also expected to submit their communication devices in secure storage before entering restricted areas. The main purpose of these regulations is to protect the integrity of international matches and prevent unauthorised communication. Changes since Lord’s Test defeat Since surrendering the three-match Test series at Lord’s, where Pakistan failed to cross 200 across both innings, the PCB made drastic changes, with several more happening in the background. Amid dropping and releasing players and the support staff, Pakistan roped in seven new faces, including five uncapped cricketers. Mike Hesson and Ashley Noffke, Pakistan’s white-ball coaches, have been asked to take up the coaching responsibilities for the final Test in Birmingham. The PCB also issued a show-cause notice to the four-member selection committee, seeking a response within 24 hours on the inclusion of Rizwan and Imam in the squads for the away tours of the West Indies and England. Misbah-ul-Haq, one of the four members, also tendered his resignation a day after the PCB made wholesale changes to the main-team roster, with the PCB rejecting it. Meanwhile, England lead the three-match series 2-0, with the final Test starting next Wednesday (Sep 9).

The PCB has reportedly confiscated the mobile phones of several Pakistan players ahead of the Edgbaston Test against England. Read more about the 'jail-like' environment and ICC rules.

‘Jail-Like Environment’: PCB seizes Pakistan players' phones ahead of Edgbaston Test — Report

Pakistan women’s team coach and mentor Wahab Riaz made a bizarre statement following his side’s seven-wicket defeat at the hands of India in the recently contested Asia Cup clash in Dubai. Batting first after winning the toss, Pakistan’s women’s cricket team was skittled out for just 55 – their lowest-ever T20I score before their arch-rivals completed the run chase to finish at the top of their group. Pakistan were 27 for no loss before losing all 10 wickets for just 28 runs to register an unwanted record. Despite this thrashing, Wahab said his team is the ‘best in this Asia Cup’, raising eyebrows. &nbsp;The team mentor said his team has skillful players and just needs to trust itself after this humiliation. With Pakistan needing one more win to qualify for the semifinals, their last group game against Hong Kong should help them.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-pakistan-womens-asia-cup-2026-match-report-7-wicket-win-1788627465419">Women’s Asia Cup: India crush Pakistan by 7 wickets as no-handshake stance continues</a> &nbsp;Addressing the media following a shocking loss, Wahab said, "I believe that all the players in our team are very skillful, and they just need to trust themselves. Our next match is against Hong Kong. We will go back and discuss what we did wrong against India. We will try not to commit the same mistakes. I still believe Pakistan is the best side in this Asia Cup to lift the trophy because the conditions really suit us.”<h2>‘I Have Nothing to Do With That Opinion’</h2>On the other hand, former captain Sana Mir had different views on the result. Sana slammed the management for making more than half a dozen changes to the squad for this competition, with as many as seven players being left out. &nbsp;When asked about her comments, Wahab said, "Sana Mir has her own opinion. I have nothing to do with that opinion. We have made changes with the future in mind. The players who were playing before, they have played a lot of World Cups and Asia Cups, but we weren't getting the results. So, it was time to go with new faces and bring new girls into the mix to build the team for the upcoming tournaments. &nbsp;"It is not about who we left behind. We have to look at the reality. The girls who were left out weren't performing at all. I think we did the right move by bringing new girls into the mix," he asserted. &nbsp;Meanwhile, India had already punched their semifinal ticket and will face the second-ranked team from Group B in their last four match. Should Pakistan win their league game against Hong Kong and later beat their semifinal opponent, they could again come up against their arch-rivals in the Women’s Asia Cup final next Sunday (Sep 13).&nbsp;

Wahab Riaz raised eyebrows after declaring Pakistan the 'best team' in the Women's Asia Cup, despite being skittled for 55 against India. Read his reaction and response to Sana Mir.

Pakistan women’s team coach and mentor Wahab Riaz made a bizarre statement following his side’s seven-wicket defeat at the hands of India in the recently contested Asia Cup clash in Dubai. Batting first after winning the toss, Pakistan’s women’s cricket team was skittled out for just 55 – their lowest-ever T20I score before their arch-rivals completed the run chase to finish at the top of their group. Pakistan were 27 for no loss before losing all 10 wickets for just 28 runs to register an unwanted record. Despite this thrashing, Wahab said his team is the ‘best in this Asia Cup’, raising eyebrows. The team mentor said his team has skillful players and just needs to trust itself after this humiliation. With Pakistan needing one more win to qualify for the semifinals, their last group game against Hong Kong should help them. Also read| Women’s Asia Cup: India crush Pakistan by 7 wickets as no-handshake stance continues Addressing the media following a shocking loss, Wahab said, "I believe that all the players in our team are very skillful, and they just need to trust themselves. Our next match is against Hong Kong. We will go back and discuss what we did wrong against India. We will try not to commit the same mistakes. I still believe Pakistan is the best side in this Asia Cup to lift the trophy because the conditions really suit us.” ‘I Have Nothing to Do With That Opinion’ On the other hand, former captain Sana Mir had different views on the result. Sana slammed the management for making more than half a dozen changes to the squad for this competition, with as many as seven players being left out. When asked about her comments, Wahab said, "Sana Mir has her own opinion. I have nothing to do with that opinion. We have made changes with the future in mind. The players who were playing before, they have played a lot of World Cups and Asia Cups, but we weren't getting the results. So, it was time to go with new faces and bring new girls into the mix to build the team for the upcoming tournaments. "It is not about who we left behind. We have to look at the reality. The girls who were left out weren't performing at all. I think we did the right move by bringing new girls into the mix," he asserted. Meanwhile, India had already punched their semifinal ticket and will face the second-ranked team from Group B in their last four match. Should Pakistan win their league game against Hong Kong and later beat their semifinal opponent, they could again come up against their arch-rivals in the Women’s Asia Cup final next Sunday (Sep 13).

Wahab Riaz raised eyebrows after declaring Pakistan the 'best team' in the Women's Asia Cup, despite being skittled for 55 against India. Read his reaction and response to Sana Mir.

All out for 55 vs India, coach Wahab Riaz bizarrely claims Pakistan as 'Best Team in Asia Cup'

The Indian women’s team crushed arch-rivals Pakistan by seven wickets in their marquee Asia Cup match on Saturday evening in Dubai. The Women in Blue extended their winning streak to three matches, having already punched their semifinal ticket. Chasing a modest target of 55, India stumbled early as Pakistani captain Fatima Sana took three quick wickets. However, Harmanpreet Kaur (18*) and veteran all-rounder Deepti Sharma (12*) achieved the target, as India outclassed Pakistan to stamp their authority. The two teams did not shake hands even before or after the match.<h2>WATCH INDIA'S WINNING MOMENT -</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">𝐊𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐚𝐚𝐧 𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐬𝐭𝐲𝐥𝐞! 👑🔥 Harmanpreet Kaur goes downtown to seal the win for India! 💥 Watch <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/DPWorldWomensAsiaCup2026?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DPWorldWomensAsiaCup2026</a> LIVE 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/NotAGentlemansGame?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NotAGentlemansGame</a> <a href="https://t.co/4DX4jYq0lX">pic.twitter.com/4DX4jYq0lX</a>&mdash; Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) <a href="https://x.com/SonySportsNetwk/status/2096287743609569280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 5, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

After winning the toss and electing to bat first, Pakistan got off to a flyer, scoring 27 runs inside the first five overs. Shafali Verma broke the opening stand by keeper-batter Muneeba Ali, bowled on 13. Unfortunately for Pakistan, the first wicket triggered a horror batting collapse as Pakistan lost all 10 wickets for the next 28 runs, registering their lowest T20I total of 55 all out in 18.1 overs. &nbsp;Superb bowling from the spin trio of Shree Charani, Prema Rawat and Deepti Sharma crushed any hope of Pakistan putting on a fighting total against their counterparts. While Charani and Rawat returned with three wickets each, Deepti picked up two, with Eyman Fatima getting out run out to complete 10 wickets.&nbsp; &nbsp;Shocked by the team’s batting performance, Pakistani captain Fatima Sana, who returned with three wickets during India’s chase, said, “We had a collapse in the batting and struggled throughout the whole innings.” &nbsp;“We know that (it was a) fresh wicket (on batting first), and we just wanted to put up the maximum total. We know we have a good bowling side,” she said. &nbsp;On her three-wicket spell at the top, Sana said, “But still, we lost the match; it doesn’t matter. We needed a win, so it doesn't matter.”&nbsp;WATCH FATIMA SANA's 3-WICKET HAUL -

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Three wickets for Fatima Sana, but the result was never in doubt. 🤷‍♂️ 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/2OMWxe3DLA">pic.twitter.com/2OMWxe3DLA</a>&mdash; Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) <a href="https://x.com/SonySportsNetwk/status/2096287412880310516?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 5, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Charani, who won the player of the match award, said, “It’s a great, great feeling to contribute to my team. I just wanted to bowl to my strength and according to the field.&nbsp; &nbsp;“I just try to give more reps on the ball, so that helps me every time. I think (it’s) normal, like every day (on completing 50 T20I wickets). But it will be special, but yeah, I need to continue more and want to do more for my country.” &nbsp;India lost attacking opener Shafali Verma for 12 inside the first over, before Sana accounted for Pratika Rawal (4) and star opener Smriti Mandhana (9) in her second over to reduce India to 29/3 in four overs. Captain Harmanpreet and Deepti closed the run chase as India crushed Pakistan by seven wickets to top Group A.&nbsp; &nbsp;"Very important game for us, and really happy with the way the entire team performed today, because we talk about being ruthless, and I'm really happy with the way we performed," Indian captain Harmanpreet Kaur reflected on the win.&nbsp; &nbsp;"All the bowlers, they were outstanding. They are sticking to their plans and bowling according to their plans, and reading the pitch really well. I think that is the key: understanding the pitch and then executing your plans accordingly," she lauded her bowlers.

India Women crushed Pakistan by 7 wickets in Dubai to extend their Women's Asia Cup winning streak. Harmanpreet Kaur and Deepti Sharma sealed the 55-run chase amid the ongoing no-handshake stance. 

The Indian women’s team crushed arch-rivals Pakistan by seven wickets in their marquee Asia Cup match on Saturday evening in Dubai. The Women in Blue extended their winning streak to three matches, having already punched their semifinal ticket. Chasing a modest target of 55, India stumbled early as Pakistani captain Fatima Sana took three quick wickets. However, Harmanpreet Kaur (18*) and veteran all-rounder Deepti Sharma (12*) achieved the target, as India outclassed Pakistan to stamp their authority. The two teams did not shake hands even before or after the match. WATCH INDIA'S WINNING MOMENT -

India Women crushed Pakistan by 7 wickets in Dubai to extend their Women's Asia Cup winning streak. Harmanpreet Kaur and Deepti Sharma sealed the 55-run chase amid the ongoing no-handshake stance.&nbsp;

Women’s Asia Cup: India crush Pakistan by 7 wickets as no-handshake stance continues

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