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Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar has warned Babar Azam's team ahead of their three-Test series against England which starts with first Test on August 19 in Leeds. The series is vital for Pakistan in terms of their World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 aspiration. Pak are currently eighth on the table, just above West Indies with two wins and four losses in six Tests in the cycle. England aren't much better either as they are places just above Pakistan on seventh sport with four wins, eight losses and one draw in 13 Tests.<h2>Akhtar warns Pakistan of English pitches</h2>During Pakistan's last Test series, which they drew against West Indies 1-1 after losing the first Test, they showed signs of dominance but spin played an important role in the second Test which they had won. Akhtar reminded Pakistan of seam-friendly pitches in England and said: "England won't make the same mistake West Indies did that allowed Pakistan to get into a winning position."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asian-games-2026-cricket-india-vs-pakistan-medal-match-1786558131039">Asian Games 2026: No India-Pakistan cricket match unless it’s for the medal</a>"They'll prepare seam-friendly conditions, which will be very difficult for Pakistan to handle," Akhtar added during his recent conversation with a local sports platform, as quoted by Geo News.<h2>Pakistan's record in England in Tests</h2>Pakistan have played 54 Tests in England, winning 12 and losing 24 while 20 ended in a draw. Pakistan last won a Test match in England in 2018, when they had won first of three Tests by nine wickets at Lord's. They, however, lost the next match in Leeds as the series ended in a 1-1 draw. Pakistan had last won a Test series in England in 1996, when they won the three-mtch series 2-0.Pakistan squad for England Tests: Babar Azam (c), Aamir Jamal, Abdullah Shafique, Ali Usman, Azan Awais, Imam-ul-Haq, Khurram Shahzad, Mohammad Abbas, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Rizwan, Muhammad Awais Zafar, Muhammad Ghazi Ghori, Sajid Khan, Salman Ali Agha, Saud Shakeel, Shan Masood, Ubaid Shah

Ahead of their three-Test series in England, Shoaib Akhtar has warned Pakistan that seam-friendly pitches will pose a tough challenge to their World Test Championship 2025–27 aspirations.

Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar has warned Babar Azam's team ahead of their three-Test series against England which starts with first Test on August 19 in Leeds. The series is vital for Pakistan in terms of their World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 aspiration. Pak are currently eighth on the table, just above West Indies with two wins and four losses in six Tests in the cycle. England aren't much better either as they are places just above Pakistan on seventh sport with four wins, eight losses and one draw in 13 Tests. Akhtar warns Pakistan of English pitches During Pakistan's last Test series, which they drew against West Indies 1-1 after losing the first Test, they showed signs of dominance but spin played an important role in the second Test which they had won. Akhtar reminded Pakistan of seam-friendly pitches in England and said: "England won't make the same mistake West Indies did that allowed Pakistan to get into a winning position." Also Read - Asian Games 2026: No India-Pakistan cricket match unless it’s for the medal "They'll prepare seam-friendly conditions, which will be very difficult for Pakistan to handle," Akhtar added during his recent conversation with a local sports platform, as quoted by Geo News. Pakistan's record in England in Tests Pakistan have played 54 Tests in England, winning 12 and losing 24 while 20 ended in a draw. Pakistan last won a Test match in England in 2018, when they had won first of three Tests by nine wickets at Lord's. They, however, lost the next match in Leeds as the series ended in a 1-1 draw. Pakistan had last won a Test series in England in 1996, when they won the three-mtch series 2-0. Pakistan squad for England Tests: Babar Azam (c), Aamir Jamal, Abdullah Shafique, Ali Usman, Azan Awais, Imam-ul-Haq, Khurram Shahzad, Mohammad Abbas, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Rizwan, Muhammad Awais Zafar, Muhammad Ghazi Ghori, Sajid Khan, Salman Ali Agha, Saud Shakeel, Shan Masood, Ubaid Shah

Ahead of their three-Test series in England, Shoaib Akhtar has warned Pakistan that seam-friendly pitches will pose a tough challenge to their World Test Championship 2025–27 aspirations.

Shoaib Akhtar says seam-friendly England pitches 'will be very difficult' for Pakistan in upcoming Test series

Arch-rivals India and Pakistan are unlikely to meet across men’s or women’s cricket at the upcoming Nagoya Asian Games unless it’s for the medal. Unlike other ICC or ACC events, where the two Asian giants are often placed together for engagement and subsequent monetary purposes, the two teams might not play each other at all in this tournament unless it's the gold medal match. Considering there is always a chance for them to meet up in a cricket tournament, chances are bleak for the upcoming edition because the draws are such. &nbsp;The 2026 Asian Games will take place from September 19 to October 4, with cricket scheduled from September 17 to October 3, starting with the women’s cricket. The women’s cricket final will take place on September 22, after which the men’s competition gets underway. 10 teams in each division will compete in this medal event.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-ceo-future-one-day-cricket-random-odis-1786551821769">'No Room for Random ODIs': ICC CEO speaks out on One-Day Cricket's future</a> &nbsp;The defending gold medal winners, India, alongside Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, are seeded directly into the quarterfinals; the remaining six teams, including Afghanistan, will contest for a knockout place in the group stage. While India will play in quarterfinal 2, Pakistan is placed in quarterfinal 1, with the two games scheduled for September 28. Their opponents will be the teams that advanced through the group stage. &nbsp;The semifinal seeding ensures that the winner of quarterfinal 2, which could be India, will face the winner of quarterfinal 3; whereas, the winner of quarterfinal 1, likely Pakistan, will face the winner of quarterfinal 4. The two semifinals are also scheduled on the same day (October 1).&nbsp; &nbsp;Such a scenario means only one thing: India and Pakistan can meet only in a gold medal match, or in the bronze medal match, should the two lose their respective semifinals. &nbsp;Meanwhile, other than Afghanistan, the remaining teams in the men’s category are Nepal, Hong Kong, China, Japan, Malaysia and Oman.&nbsp;<h2>No IND-PAK Face-off in Women’s Category</h2>Likewise, in the men’s event, India and Pakistan are highly unlikely to meet in the women’s category as well, again, unless it’s for a medal. &nbsp;In the women’s competition, India is ranked number one, while Pakistan is seeded fourth behind Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, respectively. However, their draw sees India facing Japan in the quarterfinal, and upon progressing, their likely opponents would be Bangladesh or Hong Kong, China. &nbsp;On the other hand, Pakistan will face Thailand in their quarterfinal fixture, and should they win, they will face one of Sri Lanka or Malaysia. A potential Indian women’s vs Pakistan women’s match could, therefore, only be possible in the final or the bronze-medal play-off, scheduled for September 22.&nbsp; &nbsp;The Korogi Athletic Park in Aichi Prefecture will host all cricket matches.

India and Pakistan can only meet in a medal match at the 2026 Asian Games after being placed on opposite sides of the cricket tournament draw.

Arch-rivals India and Pakistan are unlikely to meet across men’s or women’s cricket at the upcoming Nagoya Asian Games unless it’s for the medal. Unlike other ICC or ACC events, where the two Asian giants are often placed together for engagement and subsequent monetary purposes, the two teams might not play each other at all in this tournament unless it's the gold medal match. Considering there is always a chance for them to meet up in a cricket tournament, chances are bleak for the upcoming edition because the draws are such. The 2026 Asian Games will take place from September 19 to October 4, with cricket scheduled from September 17 to October 3, starting with the women’s cricket. The women’s cricket final will take place on September 22, after which the men’s competition gets underway. 10 teams in each division will compete in this medal event. Also read| 'No Room for Random ODIs': ICC CEO speaks out on One-Day Cricket's future The defending gold medal winners, India, alongside Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, are seeded directly into the quarterfinals; the remaining six teams, including Afghanistan, will contest for a knockout place in the group stage. While India will play in quarterfinal 2, Pakistan is placed in quarterfinal 1, with the two games scheduled for September 28. Their opponents will be the teams that advanced through the group stage. The semifinal seeding ensures that the winner of quarterfinal 2, which could be India, will face the winner of quarterfinal 3; whereas, the winner of quarterfinal 1, likely Pakistan, will face the winner of quarterfinal 4. The two semifinals are also scheduled on the same day (October 1). Such a scenario means only one thing: India and Pakistan can meet only in a gold medal match, or in the bronze medal match, should the two lose their respective semifinals. Meanwhile, other than Afghanistan, the remaining teams in the men’s category are Nepal, Hong Kong, China, Japan, Malaysia and Oman. No IND-PAK Face-off in Women’s Category Likewise, in the men’s event, India and Pakistan are highly unlikely to meet in the women’s category as well, again, unless it’s for a medal. In the women’s competition, India is ranked number one, while Pakistan is seeded fourth behind Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, respectively. However, their draw sees India facing Japan in the quarterfinal, and upon progressing, their likely opponents would be Bangladesh or Hong Kong, China. On the other hand, Pakistan will face Thailand in their quarterfinal fixture, and should they win, they will face one of Sri Lanka or Malaysia. A potential Indian women’s vs Pakistan women’s match could, therefore, only be possible in the final or the bronze-medal play-off, scheduled for September 22. The Korogi Athletic Park in Aichi Prefecture will host all cricket matches.

India and Pakistan can only meet in a medal match at the 2026 Asian Games after being placed on opposite sides of the cricket tournament draw.

Asian Games 2026: No India-Pakistan cricket match unless it’s for the medal

The future of One-Day International (ODI) cricket looks gloomy, but not the 50-over World Cup, as ICC CEO Sanjog Gupta, who took charge last year, hints at ending ‘randomly scheduled ODIs’ in the near future. Already under scrutiny following the growth of franchise-based T20 leagues worldwide, the One-Dayers could be reduced to major ICC events, including the 50-over World Cup, Champions Trophy and marquee series, if at all. Gupta suggests that because these ‘randomly scheduled ODIs’ do not fit four levers that drive attention and affiliation, their sustenance is challenging. &nbsp;"The era of randomly scheduled bilateral series has to come to an end, because countries will not be able to sustain cricket without context, culture, competition and competitiveness, which require significant investment of resources, both financial and non-financial," Gupta said in a statement to the PTI. &nbsp;"It's important to stay focused on the four levers which drive attention and affiliation - context, culture, competition and competitiveness - and ODIs can continue not just to survive, but thrive,” he added.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/david-miller-2027-odi-world-cup-goal-favorite-ipl-moments-1786539030908">‘Winning Home World Cup Will Be Special’: David Miller on finishing career on a high</a> &nbsp;Although he remained committed to the next FTP cycle, which includes two ODI World Cups (2027 and 2031) and a Champions Trophy tournament in 2029, Gupta insisted on looking at where this format stands and could be evolved and expanded. &nbsp;"There is a place for the format in the product portfolio, which is inextricably linked to men's and women's World Cups. We need to look at what we want the format to stand for and how we want it to evolve, including the expanse of participation,” he continued. &nbsp;Meanwhile, ODI cricket completed its 5000th match, contested between Scotland and Canada in Dundee last week. The ICC also introduced a new format for the 2027 World Cup, involving 14 teams. &nbsp;With 10 teams, including three host nations: South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia automatically qualifying, several associate teams, Scotland and the Netherlands hit out at the ICC for a lack of communication on revamping the ODI WC qualifying structure, calling this episode ‘disrespectful’.<h2>Jonty Rhodes Raises Similar Concerns</h2>Veteran fielder Jonty Rhodes raised similar concerns on the expansion of ODI cricket at a recent event in Mumbai.&nbsp; &nbsp;"When T20 first started, people were saying it's going to put pressure on Test cricket; amazingly, it hasn't," Rhodes said.&nbsp; &nbsp;"Sure, some of the Test cricket looks like T20 at times, there's some aggressive batting and bowling, but for me it was always understanding that 50-over cricket might be the one format that might be in trouble in the years ahead. &nbsp;"We're really fortunate that what 50-over cricket has is you've got really passionate fans, who support their team no matter what format. At this stage, I think there will be fewer and fewer bilateral series where there's a lot of 50-over cricket in the bilateral series. But it's very difficult to think of cricket without the 50-over version,” he noted.&nbsp;

ICC CEO Sanjog Gupta says randomly scheduled ODIs must end, hinting at a future where 50-over cricket focuses mainly on World Cups and flagship events.

The future of One-Day International (ODI) cricket looks gloomy, but not the 50-over World Cup, as ICC CEO Sanjog Gupta, who took charge last year, hints at ending ‘randomly scheduled ODIs’ in the near future. Already under scrutiny following the growth of franchise-based T20 leagues worldwide, the One-Dayers could be reduced to major ICC events, including the 50-over World Cup, Champions Trophy and marquee series, if at all. Gupta suggests that because these ‘randomly scheduled ODIs’ do not fit four levers that drive attention and affiliation, their sustenance is challenging. "The era of randomly scheduled bilateral series has to come to an end, because countries will not be able to sustain cricket without context, culture, competition and competitiveness, which require significant investment of resources, both financial and non-financial," Gupta said in a statement to the PTI. "It's important to stay focused on the four levers which drive attention and affiliation - context, culture, competition and competitiveness - and ODIs can continue not just to survive, but thrive,” he added. Also read| ‘Winning Home World Cup Will Be Special’: David Miller on finishing career on a high Although he remained committed to the next FTP cycle, which includes two ODI World Cups (2027 and 2031) and a Champions Trophy tournament in 2029, Gupta insisted on looking at where this format stands and could be evolved and expanded. "There is a place for the format in the product portfolio, which is inextricably linked to men's and women's World Cups. We need to look at what we want the format to stand for and how we want it to evolve, including the expanse of participation,” he continued. Meanwhile, ODI cricket completed its 5000th match, contested between Scotland and Canada in Dundee last week. The ICC also introduced a new format for the 2027 World Cup, involving 14 teams. With 10 teams, including three host nations: South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia automatically qualifying, several associate teams, Scotland and the Netherlands hit out at the ICC for a lack of communication on revamping the ODI WC qualifying structure, calling this episode ‘disrespectful’. Jonty Rhodes Raises Similar Concerns Veteran fielder Jonty Rhodes raised similar concerns on the expansion of ODI cricket at a recent event in Mumbai. "When T20 first started, people were saying it's going to put pressure on Test cricket; amazingly, it hasn't," Rhodes said. "Sure, some of the Test cricket looks like T20 at times, there's some aggressive batting and bowling, but for me it was always understanding that 50-over cricket might be the one format that might be in trouble in the years ahead. "We're really fortunate that what 50-over cricket has is you've got really passionate fans, who support their team no matter what format. At this stage, I think there will be fewer and fewer bilateral series where there's a lot of 50-over cricket in the bilateral series. But it's very difficult to think of cricket without the 50-over version,” he noted.

ICC CEO Sanjog Gupta says randomly scheduled ODIs must end, hinting at a future where 50-over cricket focuses mainly on World Cups and flagship events.

'No Room for Random ODIs': ICC CEO speaks out on One-Day Cricket's future

England Test captain Joe Root has urged his teammates to be ‘adults’ and take responsibility for their actions both on and off the field, while dismissing a midnight curfew within the camp. Root, who is readying to lead England in his second spell as the Test captain against Pakistan, confirmed that there would be no curfew in place during his time. His comments came on the back of the ECB placing a curfew on team members during home and away tours, especially after Harry Brook and Ben Stokes’ instances, which later led to Stokes’ shock retirement from international cricket. &nbsp;That was followed by Test head coach Brendon McCullum’s sacking, with the ECB appointing McCullum’s compatriot Stephen Fleming as his replacement. Although he is set to join the squad later, Marcus Trescothick will oversee the proceedings in the upcoming three-match series, starting in Leeds on August 19.<h2>Curfew Breach in London</h2>After England beat New Zealand in the first Test at Lord’s, captain Stokes and fast bowler Gus Atkinson were part of an incident at a London nightclub past the midnight curfew.&nbsp; &nbsp;What followed later changed England’s Test cricket scene.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-vs-ban-1st-test-darwin-preview-australia-playing-xi-1786542241568">AUS vs BAN 2026, 1st Test Preview: Darwin’s 22-year wait ends as Australia name final XI</a> &nbsp;A brawl broke out between the players and Totoa Auvaa, a 21-year-old academy rugby player for Saracens, which led to the ECB suspending the cricketers on disciplinary grounds. They missed the second Test but returned for the decisive one at Trent Bridge. &nbsp;Midway through the third Test, the ECB publicly announced Stokes’ decision to relinquish Test captaincy and step aside from international cricket. England managing director Rob Key established the curfew, which came about after white-ball captain Harry Brook was fined for an altercation with a bouncer in New Zealand last November. &nbsp;"There's not going to be a curfew. I don't think this needs to be a big deal, to be honest,” Root said on Sky Cricket’s podcast. "My view on curfews is I don't think they work, and if you want guys to take responsibility on the field they've got to be able to feel they can be grown adults off it and make good strong decisions off it. &nbsp;"That's for us as a team to manage well, and self-police well, for me and 'Flem' (new red-ball coach Stephen Fleming) to manage well in many ways but ultimately you're grown adults, you know what it takes to play for England, you know what your responsibilities are off the field and we need to make sure we don't find ourselves with any little situations off the field." &nbsp;Root, 35, who will again lead England in the whites, asked his teammates to act like adults and take care of themselves and English cricket. &nbsp;"We should be known for how we play our cricket and what we do on the field; we should be on the back pages of the newspapers and people reading about that sort of stuff," said Root. "Be adults, look after yourselves, look after each other, create a good strong culture when you know when the right time is to celebrate and enjoy a win or to have a sensible beer or whatever, but remember you're playing for England."

Joe Root has dismissed team curfews as England Test captain, urging players to act like adults off the field ahead of the Pakistan Test series in Leeds.

England Test captain Joe Root has urged his teammates to be ‘adults’ and take responsibility for their actions both on and off the field, while dismissing a midnight curfew within the camp. Root, who is readying to lead England in his second spell as the Test captain against Pakistan, confirmed that there would be no curfew in place during his time. His comments came on the back of the ECB placing a curfew on team members during home and away tours, especially after Harry Brook and Ben Stokes’ instances, which later led to Stokes’ shock retirement from international cricket. That was followed by Test head coach Brendon McCullum’s sacking, with the ECB appointing McCullum’s compatriot Stephen Fleming as his replacement. Although he is set to join the squad later, Marcus Trescothick will oversee the proceedings in the upcoming three-match series, starting in Leeds on August 19. Curfew Breach in London After England beat New Zealand in the first Test at Lord’s, captain Stokes and fast bowler Gus Atkinson were part of an incident at a London nightclub past the midnight curfew. What followed later changed England’s Test cricket scene. Also read| AUS vs BAN 2026, 1st Test Preview: Darwin’s 22-year wait ends as Australia name final XI A brawl broke out between the players and Totoa Auvaa, a 21-year-old academy rugby player for Saracens, which led to the ECB suspending the cricketers on disciplinary grounds. They missed the second Test but returned for the decisive one at Trent Bridge. Midway through the third Test, the ECB publicly announced Stokes’ decision to relinquish Test captaincy and step aside from international cricket. England managing director Rob Key established the curfew, which came about after white-ball captain Harry Brook was fined for an altercation with a bouncer in New Zealand last November. "There's not going to be a curfew. I don't think this needs to be a big deal, to be honest,” Root said on Sky Cricket’s podcast. "My view on curfews is I don't think they work, and if you want guys to take responsibility on the field they've got to be able to feel they can be grown adults off it and make good strong decisions off it. "That's for us as a team to manage well, and self-police well, for me and 'Flem' (new red-ball coach Stephen Fleming) to manage well in many ways but ultimately you're grown adults, you know what it takes to play for England, you know what your responsibilities are off the field and we need to make sure we don't find ourselves with any little situations off the field." Root, 35, who will again lead England in the whites, asked his teammates to act like adults and take care of themselves and English cricket. "We should be known for how we play our cricket and what we do on the field; we should be on the back pages of the newspapers and people reading about that sort of stuff," said Root. "Be adults, look after yourselves, look after each other, create a good strong culture when you know when the right time is to celebrate and enjoy a win or to have a sensible beer or whatever, but remember you're playing for England."

Joe Root has dismissed team curfews as England Test captain, urging players to act like adults off the field ahead of the Pakistan Test series in Leeds.

‘Be Adults, Look after Yourselves’: Joe Root’s message to England team amid no-curfew stance

Test cricket returns to Australia’s tropical northern city of Darwin for the first time in 22 years, with Bangladesh visiting for a red-ball series after 23 years. The series opener between Australia and Bangladesh marks a special occasion for the venue, as the last Test played here was also between these two countries in 2003, when Australia beat them convincingly. More than two decades later, both teams are back facing off Down Under in the first of the two Tests starting on Thursday (Aug 13). Here is the match preview and Australia’s playing XI.<h2>Match Preview</h2>Months after Australia defended their ODI World Cup crown by beating India in the 2003 edition final, the Steve Waugh-led team hosted Bangladesh for a Test match for the first time in July that year. Fielding an almost full-strength XI, the hosts crushed the Asian team by an innings and 132 runs. 23 years, three ODI World Cups and a WTC title later, another full-strength Australian team is playing Bangladesh in a two-match Test series. &nbsp;Injury-free Australia will play a home Test for the first time since January this year, which marks the beginning of a marathon streak of at least 20 Tests in the next 12 months. For the first game, the famous quartet of captain Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon is back together, alongside Test veteran Steve Smith. Two all-rounders, Cameron Green and Beau Webster, have also been picked, while keeper-batter Alex Carey has retained his number six spot.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-afg-t20i-series-delhi-schedule-bangladesh-tour-doubtful-1786537182710">Afghanistan to host India for 3 T20Is in Delhi as Bangladesh tour 'doubtful'; details inside</a> &nbsp;Travis Head and Jake Weatherald will resume the opening duties, with Marnus Labuschagne locked in at three. Green, the youngest of the lot, will take up the fifth place, although it remains unclear if he will bowl in the first Test against Bangladesh.<h3>No Nahid Rana for Bangladesh</h3>Bangladesh’s premier seamer and perhaps the most exciting pace prospect in the world now, lanky seamer Nahid Rana, has unfortunately missed out on selection due to an injury. What's worse? Bangladesh will enter this contest on the back of being bowled out for just 54 in their only warm-up game against Cricket Australia XI recently.&nbsp;&nbsp;Although they still have firepower in both batting and bowling for the two Tests, including seamer Taskin Ahmed and veteran wicketkeepers Mushfiqur Rahim and Litton Das, Bangladesh’s challenge would be the mighty bounce that has often terrified touring teams Down Under. &nbsp;Australia’s final XI for the first Test against Bangladesh – &nbsp;Travis Head, Jake Weatherald, Marnus Labuschagne, Steven Smith, Cameron Green, Alex Carey (wk), Beau Webster, Pat Cummins (captain), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon and Josh Hazlewood &nbsp;Bangladesh’s predicted playing XI – &nbsp;Tanzid Hasan, Shadman Islam, Mominul Haque, Najmul Hossain Shanto (captain), Mushfiqur Rahim, Litton Das (wk), Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taijul Islam, Taskin Ahmed, Khaled Ahmed/Ebadot Hossain and Hasan Mahmud

Test cricket returns to Darwin after 22 years as Australia hosts Bangladesh in the 1st Test. Check the match preview, pitch conditions, and Australia's confirmed XI.

Test cricket returns to Australia’s tropical northern city of Darwin for the first time in 22 years, with Bangladesh visiting for a red-ball series after 23 years. The series opener between Australia and Bangladesh marks a special occasion for the venue, as the last Test played here was also between these two countries in 2003, when Australia beat them convincingly. More than two decades later, both teams are back facing off Down Under in the first of the two Tests starting on Thursday (Aug 13). Here is the match preview and Australia’s playing XI. Match Preview Months after Australia defended their ODI World Cup crown by beating India in the 2003 edition final, the Steve Waugh-led team hosted Bangladesh for a Test match for the first time in July that year. Fielding an almost full-strength XI, the hosts crushed the Asian team by an innings and 132 runs. 23 years, three ODI World Cups and a WTC title later, another full-strength Australian team is playing Bangladesh in a two-match Test series. Injury-free Australia will play a home Test for the first time since January this year, which marks the beginning of a marathon streak of at least 20 Tests in the next 12 months. For the first game, the famous quartet of captain Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon is back together, alongside Test veteran Steve Smith. Two all-rounders, Cameron Green and Beau Webster, have also been picked, while keeper-batter Alex Carey has retained his number six spot. Also read| Afghanistan to host India for 3 T20Is in Delhi as Bangladesh tour 'doubtful'; details inside Travis Head and Jake Weatherald will resume the opening duties, with Marnus Labuschagne locked in at three. Green, the youngest of the lot, will take up the fifth place, although it remains unclear if he will bowl in the first Test against Bangladesh. No Nahid Rana for Bangladesh Bangladesh’s premier seamer and perhaps the most exciting pace prospect in the world now, lanky seamer Nahid Rana, has unfortunately missed out on selection due to an injury. What's worse? Bangladesh will enter this contest on the back of being bowled out for just 54 in their only warm-up game against Cricket Australia XI recently. Although they still have firepower in both batting and bowling for the two Tests, including seamer Taskin Ahmed and veteran wicketkeepers Mushfiqur Rahim and Litton Das, Bangladesh’s challenge would be the mighty bounce that has often terrified touring teams Down Under. Australia’s final XI for the first Test against Bangladesh – Travis Head, Jake Weatherald, Marnus Labuschagne, Steven Smith, Cameron Green, Alex Carey (wk), Beau Webster, Pat Cummins (captain), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon and Josh Hazlewood Bangladesh’s predicted playing XI – Tanzid Hasan, Shadman Islam, Mominul Haque, Najmul Hossain Shanto (captain), Mushfiqur Rahim, Litton Das (wk), Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taijul Islam, Taskin Ahmed, Khaled Ahmed/Ebadot Hossain and Hasan Mahmud

Test cricket returns to Darwin after 22 years as Australia hosts Bangladesh in the 1st Test. Check the match preview, pitch conditions, and Australia's confirmed XI.

AUS vs BAN 2026, 1st Test Preview: Darwin’s 22-year wait ends as Australia name final XI

David Miller, a cricket veteran of over 300 international white-ball matches, is closing in on the end of his career. But before he decides to hang up his boots, Miller wants to realise his dream of winning an ODI World Cup, scheduled for late 2027 in South Africa, Namibia and Zimbabwe. Despite representing the Proteas at the top level for over a decade now, Miller has yet to lift an ICC trophy—as a white-ball specialist, he was not part of South Africa’s 2025 World Test Championship-winning side. &nbsp;Already 37, Miller wants to finish his celebrated cricket career on a high, and there would be no better way than winning a home ODI World Cup in 2027.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-afg-t20i-series-delhi-schedule-bangladesh-tour-doubtful-1786537182710">Afghanistan to host India for 3 T20Is in Delhi as Bangladesh tour 'doubtful'; details inside</a> &nbsp;“I am really looking forward to it (the ODI WC),” Miller said in a chat with JioStar. &nbsp;“For me, it’s a goal that I want to achieve. I would love to finish off late in my career with a trophy. So, for me, it’s a goal that I would love to be a part of that World Cup team. It’s something that is never guaranteed, and I’ll definitely, from now until then, be focused on aiming to make that team and to contribute the best I can. Obviously, it will be very special, being at home in front of our fans, and in a place that I’ve played for so many years. So, it would be fantastic to be a part of that team,” he continued. &nbsp;Miller’s experience and power-hitting ability at the death could come in handy for the tournament’s co-hosts, who, with the squad and talent at their disposal, will enter the World Cup as the favourites.<h2>‘Favourite IPL Moments’</h2>Reflecting on his favourite IPL knock, Miller, unsurprisingly, picked his match-winning innings against RCB during the 2013 edition of the IPL, when he represented the Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings).&nbsp; &nbsp;Chasing 191, the KXIP were reduced to four for 64 at one stage; Miller completed his maiden T20 and IPL hundred as KXIP sealed the chase with six wickets and 12 balls to spare. &nbsp;“I think the 101 that I scored against RCB, the fact that it was a chase, chasing down a score and scoring a hundred, my first hundred in the IPL, my first T20 hundred, was a knock that felt the most rewarding. I think there was a lot at stake there, and it kind of set my career up if I look back at it now. Then there was another knock that I’ll always remember as well, the one in Durban against Australia. We chased down a score there as well, and I scored a hundred, 118 not out or something. So, those two knocks under pressure, scoring hundreds, they’ll always kind of stand out,” he continued. &nbsp;Meanwhile, upon being asked about his favourite moment in the league, Miller picked winning his maiden IPL title with the then-tournament debutants, Gujarat Titans, in the 2022 season.&nbsp;&nbsp;“My favourite moment in the IPL…there have been many, but we obviously play to win, so definitely winning the IPL for Gujarat Titans would be that," he continued.

David Miller targets the 2027 ODI World Cup on home soil before retirement and reflects on his favourite IPL moments, including his iconic 101 against RCB.

David Miller, a cricket veteran of over 300 international white-ball matches, is closing in on the end of his career. But before he decides to hang up his boots, Miller wants to realise his dream of winning an ODI World Cup, scheduled for late 2027 in South Africa, Namibia and Zimbabwe. Despite representing the Proteas at the top level for over a decade now, Miller has yet to lift an ICC trophy—as a white-ball specialist, he was not part of South Africa’s 2025 World Test Championship-winning side. Already 37, Miller wants to finish his celebrated cricket career on a high, and there would be no better way than winning a home ODI World Cup in 2027. Also read| Afghanistan to host India for 3 T20Is in Delhi as Bangladesh tour 'doubtful'; details inside “I am really looking forward to it (the ODI WC),” Miller said in a chat with JioStar. “For me, it’s a goal that I want to achieve. I would love to finish off late in my career with a trophy. So, for me, it’s a goal that I would love to be a part of that World Cup team. It’s something that is never guaranteed, and I’ll definitely, from now until then, be focused on aiming to make that team and to contribute the best I can. Obviously, it will be very special, being at home in front of our fans, and in a place that I’ve played for so many years. So, it would be fantastic to be a part of that team,” he continued. Miller’s experience and power-hitting ability at the death could come in handy for the tournament’s co-hosts, who, with the squad and talent at their disposal, will enter the World Cup as the favourites. ‘Favourite IPL Moments’ Reflecting on his favourite IPL knock, Miller, unsurprisingly, picked his match-winning innings against RCB during the 2013 edition of the IPL, when he represented the Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings). Chasing 191, the KXIP were reduced to four for 64 at one stage; Miller completed his maiden T20 and IPL hundred as KXIP sealed the chase with six wickets and 12 balls to spare. “I think the 101 that I scored against RCB, the fact that it was a chase, chasing down a score and scoring a hundred, my first hundred in the IPL, my first T20 hundred, was a knock that felt the most rewarding. I think there was a lot at stake there, and it kind of set my career up if I look back at it now. Then there was another knock that I’ll always remember as well, the one in Durban against Australia. We chased down a score there as well, and I scored a hundred, 118 not out or something. So, those two knocks under pressure, scoring hundreds, they’ll always kind of stand out,” he continued. Meanwhile, upon being asked about his favourite moment in the league, Miller picked winning his maiden IPL title with the then-tournament debutants, Gujarat Titans, in the 2022 season. “My favourite moment in the IPL…there have been many, but we obviously play to win, so definitely winning the IPL for Gujarat Titans would be that," he continued.

David Miller targets the 2027 ODI World Cup on home soil before retirement and reflects on his favourite IPL moments, including his iconic 101 against RCB.

‘Winning Home World Cup Will Be Special’: David Miller on finishing career on a high

Afghanistan will host India for three T20Is in September this year, with Delhi’s Arun Jaitley Stadium picked to stage all three matches. The respective boards, the ACB and the BCCI, confirmed this short series in a joint statement on Wednesday, with matches scheduled for September 13, 15, and 17. “The BCCI remains committed to supporting the growth of cricket in Afghanistan and providing its players with opportunities to compete at the highest level. Bilateral cricket is an important part of this, as it allows teams to play regularly against quality opposition and gain valuable experience. We welcome the Afghanistan Cricket Board to India for this series and look forward to working closely with them to make it a successful one,” BCCI president Mithun Manhas said in an official statement. &nbsp;ACB chairman Mirwais Ashraf also acknowledged this agreement, saying, “This series holds great significance for Afghanistan cricket and represents another important step in the development of our longstanding relationship with the BCCI. Hosting India for a bilateral series in India is a significant milestone for us, and we highly value the cooperation and support of the BCCI in making this event possible.”&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sl-1st-test-sri-lanka-squad-niroshan-dickwella-recalled-1786533745546">Sri Lanka recall keeper Niroshan Dickwella in 16-man squad for India Tests</a> &nbsp;Meanwhile, this series—only the second bilateral T20I series between the two countries—is part of Afghanistan’s Future Tours Programme and will be played in India.&nbsp; &nbsp;Afghanistan has hosted its home fixtures at neutral venues in recent years. &nbsp;India and Afghanistan faced off in their first bilateral T20I series in January 2024, with Mohali, Indore, and Bengaluru hosting the matches. India won the T20I series 3-0.&nbsp; &nbsp;The upcoming T20I series will be crucial for Shreyas Iyer’s Indian team, which endured challenging times in the UK, losing seven of the eight T20Is against Ireland and England.<h2>Away Bangladesh Tour Doubtful&nbsp;</h2>The BCCI and BCB agreed to a six-match white-ball series between India and Bangladesh in September this year; however, a fallout over Bangladesh’s stance at the concluded 2026 T20 World Cup, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, soured relations between the two boards.&nbsp; &nbsp;A change in the top brass at the BCB tried to mend its ties with the BCCI, but nothing materialised. Though interim BCB president Tamim Iqbal expressed confidence that the series would proceed, the Indian Cricket Board agreed to play Afghanistan in three T20Is instead in the same window.<h3>Afghanistan vs India 2026 Full Schedule&nbsp;</h3><ul><li>1st T20I – September 13, Delhi</li><li>2nd T20I – September 15, Delhi</li><li>3rd T20I – September 17, Delhi</li></ul>

Afghanistan to host India for three T20Is in Delhi this September as the away Bangladesh series is shelved. Check the complete schedule and venue details.

Afghanistan will host India for three T20Is in September this year, with Delhi’s Arun Jaitley Stadium picked to stage all three matches. The respective boards, the ACB and the BCCI, confirmed this short series in a joint statement on Wednesday, with matches scheduled for September 13, 15, and 17. “The BCCI remains committed to supporting the growth of cricket in Afghanistan and providing its players with opportunities to compete at the highest level. Bilateral cricket is an important part of this, as it allows teams to play regularly against quality opposition and gain valuable experience. We welcome the Afghanistan Cricket Board to India for this series and look forward to working closely with them to make it a successful one,” BCCI president Mithun Manhas said in an official statement. ACB chairman Mirwais Ashraf also acknowledged this agreement, saying, “This series holds great significance for Afghanistan cricket and represents another important step in the development of our longstanding relationship with the BCCI. Hosting India for a bilateral series in India is a significant milestone for us, and we highly value the cooperation and support of the BCCI in making this event possible.” Also read| Sri Lanka recall keeper Niroshan Dickwella in 16-man squad for India Tests Meanwhile, this series—only the second bilateral T20I series between the two countries—is part of Afghanistan’s Future Tours Programme and will be played in India. Afghanistan has hosted its home fixtures at neutral venues in recent years. India and Afghanistan faced off in their first bilateral T20I series in January 2024, with Mohali, Indore, and Bengaluru hosting the matches. India won the T20I series 3-0. The upcoming T20I series will be crucial for Shreyas Iyer’s Indian team, which endured challenging times in the UK, losing seven of the eight T20Is against Ireland and England. Away Bangladesh Tour Doubtful The BCCI and BCB agreed to a six-match white-ball series between India and Bangladesh in September this year; however, a fallout over Bangladesh’s stance at the concluded 2026 T20 World Cup, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, soured relations between the two boards. A change in the top brass at the BCB tried to mend its ties with the BCCI, but nothing materialised. Though interim BCB president Tamim Iqbal expressed confidence that the series would proceed, the Indian Cricket Board agreed to play Afghanistan in three T20Is instead in the same window. Afghanistan vs India 2026 Full Schedule 1st T20I – September 13, Delhi 2nd T20I – September 15, Delhi 3rd T20I – September 17, Delhi

Afghanistan to host India for three T20Is in Delhi this September as the away Bangladesh series is shelved. Check the complete schedule and venue details.

Afghanistan to host India for 3 T20Is in Delhi as Bangladesh tour 'doubtful'; details inside

Sri Lanka recalled wicketkeeper batter Niroshan Dickwella for the two-match home Test series against India starting on Saturday (Aug 15) in Galle. While Dickwella returns to international cricket after a three-year gap, key batters Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis are absent due to respective injuries. The hosts have also handed call-ups to the uncapped pair of off-spinner Keshara Nuwantha and top-order batter Pasindu Sooriyabandara, with the left-arm quick Dilshan Madushanka also picked in the 16-man squad. Madushanka’s last Test appearance also came three years ago. &nbsp;While marquee opener Nissanka continues to recover from wrist surgery, Mendis will miss the home Test series due to a hamstring injury. Meanwhile, Mendis’ absence paved the way for Dickwella’s return at 33. Sooriyabandara retains his place at the top in Nissanka’s absence, even though Nishan Madushka and Lahiru Udara are likely to open in the series opener.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/injuries-are-bound-to-happen-ex-batter-badrinath-opines-on-series-of-injuries-to-india-players-1786524289211">'Injuries are bound to happen': Ex-batter Badrinath opines on series of injuries to India players</a> &nbsp;In the bowling department, Sri Lanka have picked only four specialist seamers: Asitha Fernando, Lahiru Kumara, Vishwa Fernando, and Madushanka, while naming three outright spinners, including Prabath Jayasuriya, uncapped Nuwantha, and Ramesh Mendis. Milan Rathnayake, the seam-bowling all-rounder and Sonal Dinusha, the left-arm spinning all-rounder, have also been picked.&nbsp; &nbsp;The hosts’ batting options are predictable, as Dinesh Chandimal, Kamindu Mendis and captain Dhananjaya de Silva will occupy the middle order, with Dickwella filling in for a keeper’s slot at number six or seven. Sri Lanka will likely play an all-rounder before completing the XI with specialist bowlers. While Galle stages the first Test, the SSC in Colombo is picked as the venue for the second Test starting Sunday (Aug 23).<h3>Check out Sri Lanka’s 16-man squad for India Tests –</h3>Dhananjaya De Silva (captain), Lahiru Udara, Nishan Madushka, Kamindu Mendis, Dinesh Chandimal, Pasindu Sooriyabandara, Sonal Dinusha, Niroshan Dickwella, Ramesh Mendis, Prabath Jayasuriya, Keshara Nuwantha, Milan Rathnayaka, Asitha Fernando, Lahiru Kumara, Vishwa Fernando and Dilshan Madushanka<h3>Here is India’s updated squad for Sri Lanka Tests –</h3>Shubman Gill (captain), K L Rahul (vice-captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant (w/k), Dhruv Jurel (w/k), Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Manav Suthar, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Gurnoor Brar, Devdutt Padikkal, Saransh Jain, Auqib Nabi and Sarfaraz Khan

Sri Lanka recall Niroshan Dickwella for the 1st Test against India in Galle as Kusal Mendis and Pathum Nissanka miss out due to injuries. Check the 16-man squad.

Sri Lanka recalled wicketkeeper batter Niroshan Dickwella for the two-match home Test series against India starting on Saturday (Aug 15) in Galle. While Dickwella returns to international cricket after a three-year gap, key batters Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis are absent due to respective injuries. The hosts have also handed call-ups to the uncapped pair of off-spinner Keshara Nuwantha and top-order batter Pasindu Sooriyabandara, with the left-arm quick Dilshan Madushanka also picked in the 16-man squad. Madushanka’s last Test appearance also came three years ago. While marquee opener Nissanka continues to recover from wrist surgery, Mendis will miss the home Test series due to a hamstring injury. Meanwhile, Mendis’ absence paved the way for Dickwella’s return at 33. Sooriyabandara retains his place at the top in Nissanka’s absence, even though Nishan Madushka and Lahiru Udara are likely to open in the series opener. Also read| 'Injuries are bound to happen': Ex-batter Badrinath opines on series of injuries to India players In the bowling department, Sri Lanka have picked only four specialist seamers: Asitha Fernando, Lahiru Kumara, Vishwa Fernando, and Madushanka, while naming three outright spinners, including Prabath Jayasuriya, uncapped Nuwantha, and Ramesh Mendis. Milan Rathnayake, the seam-bowling all-rounder and Sonal Dinusha, the left-arm spinning all-rounder, have also been picked. The hosts’ batting options are predictable, as Dinesh Chandimal, Kamindu Mendis and captain Dhananjaya de Silva will occupy the middle order, with Dickwella filling in for a keeper’s slot at number six or seven. Sri Lanka will likely play an all-rounder before completing the XI with specialist bowlers. While Galle stages the first Test, the SSC in Colombo is picked as the venue for the second Test starting Sunday (Aug 23). Check out Sri Lanka’s 16-man squad for India Tests – Dhananjaya De Silva (captain), Lahiru Udara, Nishan Madushka, Kamindu Mendis, Dinesh Chandimal, Pasindu Sooriyabandara, Sonal Dinusha, Niroshan Dickwella, Ramesh Mendis, Prabath Jayasuriya, Keshara Nuwantha, Milan Rathnayaka, Asitha Fernando, Lahiru Kumara, Vishwa Fernando and Dilshan Madushanka Here is India’s updated squad for Sri Lanka Tests – Shubman Gill (captain), K L Rahul (vice-captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant (w/k), Dhruv Jurel (w/k), Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Manav Suthar, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Gurnoor Brar, Devdutt Padikkal, Saransh Jain, Auqib Nabi and Sarfaraz Khan

Sri Lanka recall Niroshan Dickwella for the 1st Test against India in Galle as Kusal Mendis and Pathum Nissanka miss out due to injuries. Check the 16-man squad.

Sri Lanka recall keeper Niroshan Dickwella in 16-man squad for India Tests

Former India batter Subramaniam Badrinath has put the blame for Jasprit Bumrah's recurring injuries on the captain and the coach. The statement comes amid injuries to multiple Indian players including Bumrah, who has been suffering from a knee niggle since T20 World Cup earlier this year. Bumrah was late into the IPL 2026 for Mumbai Indians and then took rest but an impact injury during recently-concluded ODI series against England again put him out of the crucial two-Test series against Sri Lanka. Along with Bumrha, Nitish Reddy, Akash Deep, Sai Sudharsan, and Washington Sundar are also out injured.<h2>Badrinath puts Bumrah's injury blame on captain and coach</h2>"I don’t know who made the decision (to pick Bumrah in the SL Test squad). The Centre of Excellance (CoE) will not make the selection, right? They will just say he is in this state and can play these matches and his body is in this state. But I think the captain, coach, and selectors are taking the decision. CoE only passes the information. They are not selectors,” Badrinath said on his YouTube channel."I don’t have an immediate answer to the root cause of so many injuries. It is important to see what kind of injuries these are. At high-level professional sport, injuries are common. Sai Sudharsan got hit by a ball, with Bumah, it is a chronic injury because of being overused and fitness is not Sundar’s forte, he is injury-prone. His fitness needs a lot of work. Management and monitoring is very important. Injuries are bound to happen and you cannot control it," he added.<h2>Who leads India's attack in Sri Lanka?</h2>In Bumrah's absence, Mohammed Siraj leads India's pace bowling attack along with Prasidh Krishna and Gurnoor Brar. Jammu and Kashmir pacer Auqib Nabi has also been included in the squad and would be the first player from his state to play for India if he makes his debut. The two-Test series against Sri Lanka starts on August 15 with second Test scheduled from August 23.

Subramaniam Badrinath blamed India’s captain, coach and selectors for Jasprit Bumrah’s recurring injury issues, stressing better workload management. Mohammed Siraj will lead India’s attack against Sri Lanka.

Former India batter Subramaniam Badrinath has put the blame for Jasprit Bumrah's recurring injuries on the captain and the coach. The statement comes amid injuries to multiple Indian players including Bumrah, who has been suffering from a knee niggle since T20 World Cup earlier this year. Bumrah was late into the IPL 2026 for Mumbai Indians and then took rest but an impact injury during recently-concluded ODI series against England again put him out of the crucial two-Test series against Sri Lanka. Along with Bumrha, Nitish Reddy, Akash Deep, Sai Sudharsan, and Washington Sundar are also out injured. Badrinath puts Bumrah's injury blame on captain and coach "I don’t know who made the decision (to pick Bumrah in the SL Test squad). The Centre of Excellance (CoE) will not make the selection, right? They will just say he is in this state and can play these matches and his body is in this state. But I think the captain, coach, and selectors are taking the decision. CoE only passes the information. They are not selectors,” Badrinath said on his YouTube channel. "I don’t have an immediate answer to the root cause of so many injuries. It is important to see what kind of injuries these are. At high-level professional sport, injuries are common. Sai Sudharsan got hit by a ball, with Bumah, it is a chronic injury because of being overused and fitness is not Sundar’s forte, he is injury-prone. His fitness needs a lot of work. Management and monitoring is very important. Injuries are bound to happen and you cannot control it," he added. Who leads India's attack in Sri Lanka? In Bumrah's absence, Mohammed Siraj leads India's pace bowling attack along with Prasidh Krishna and Gurnoor Brar. Jammu and Kashmir pacer Auqib Nabi has also been included in the squad and would be the first player from his state to play for India if he makes his debut. The two-Test series against Sri Lanka starts on August 15 with second Test scheduled from August 23.

Subramaniam Badrinath blamed India’s captain, coach and selectors for Jasprit Bumrah’s recurring injury issues, stressing better workload management. Mohammed Siraj will lead India’s attack against Sri Lanka.

'Injuries are bound to happen': Ex-batter Badrinath opines on series of injuries to India players

Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya has been a subject of trade rumour for quite some time now, but his bid to be back at Gujarat Titans has hit an appearant roadblock. Pandya, wo had led the Titans to an IPL title in their inaugural season, had moved to MI and replaced Rohit as captain in 2024. The MI, for which Pandya used to play before making a move to Gujarat Titans, however, haven't been at their best, finishing towards the bottom in the last two seasons. Pandya has now found himself in a unique position of being traded to other teams.<h2>Pandya's return to Gujarat bid hits roadblock</h2>Pandya was actively seeking to return to Gujarat Titans and the franchise was all okay with it before a condition put forward by the India all-rounder derailed the talks.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/delhi-capitals-abishek-porel-arrested-rape-sexual-assault-case-1786455408779">Delhi Capitals keeper Abishek Porel arrested for alleged rape and sexual assault</a>"The franchise was fine with him making a return. They had even discussed the same with its captain Shubman Gill, and he, too, had agreed that the franchise could trade him back. But when his condition of captaincy was put up, everyone said no to it," reported the Indian Express citing a source.<h2>Which other teams are interested in Pandya?</h2>There are a couple of other IPL teams which could be looking get Pandya on board and two of them are - Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK). KKR have recently been left without captain after Ajinkya Rahane announced his retirement while CSK are looking to rebuild with Dhoni almost playing no role and Stephan Fleming no more the coach.Former India spinner Ravi Ashwin also picked KKR and CSK as two most viable options for Pandya to make a move in the IPL trade window ahead of the next season. Where does the India all-round go, however, remains to be seen.

Hardik Pandya’s attempt to return to Gujarat Titans stalled after the franchise rejected his condition to be made captain. CSK and KKR are reported as potential trade destinations for the MI skipper.

Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya has been a subject of trade rumour for quite some time now, but his bid to be back at Gujarat Titans has hit an appearant roadblock. Pandya, wo had led the Titans to an IPL title in their inaugural season, had moved to MI and replaced Rohit as captain in 2024. The MI, for which Pandya used to play before making a move to Gujarat Titans, however, haven't been at their best, finishing towards the bottom in the last two seasons. Pandya has now found himself in a unique position of being traded to other teams. Pandya's return to Gujarat bid hits roadblock Pandya was actively seeking to return to Gujarat Titans and the franchise was all okay with it before a condition put forward by the India all-rounder derailed the talks. Also Read - Delhi Capitals keeper Abishek Porel arrested for alleged rape and sexual assault "The franchise was fine with him making a return. They had even discussed the same with its captain Shubman Gill, and he, too, had agreed that the franchise could trade him back. But when his condition of captaincy was put up, everyone said no to it," reported the Indian Express citing a source. Which other teams are interested in Pandya? There are a couple of other IPL teams which could be looking get Pandya on board and two of them are - Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK). KKR have recently been left without captain after Ajinkya Rahane announced his retirement while CSK are looking to rebuild with Dhoni almost playing no role and Stephan Fleming no more the coach. Former India spinner Ravi Ashwin also picked KKR and CSK as two most viable options for Pandya to make a move in the IPL trade window ahead of the next season. Where does the India all-round go, however, remains to be seen.

Hardik Pandya’s attempt to return to Gujarat Titans stalled after the franchise rejected his condition to be made captain. CSK and KKR are reported as potential trade destinations for the MI skipper.

IPL 2027: Hardik Pandya's bid to be reunited with Gujarat Titans hits captaincy roadblock - Report

In a shocking development, Bengal and IPL franchise Delhi Capitals wicketkeeper-batter Abishek Porel has been arrested late Monday night by the Mogra Police under Hooghly (Rural) Police jurisdiction for alleged rape and sexual assault accusations. Following his arrest, police produced him before the Chief Judicial Magistrate Court in Chinsurah on Tuesday (Aug 11), in connection with a case first registered on June 23. &nbsp;After the initial hearing last month on July 14, the Calcutta High Court noted submissions from the petitioner's advocate that ‘further steps are required to be taken by the concerned police authorities to seize electronic devices lying with the accused persons containing obscene photographs of the petitioner to protect dignity and privacy of the petitioner.’&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sourav-ganguly-wife-dona-receive-death-threats-kolkata-police-complaint-1786385714229">Sourav Ganguly and his wife receive death threats; Kolkata cops launch probe</a> &nbsp;The court also noted that ‘having considered the respective submissions made on behalf of the parties and taking note of the contents of the communication dated 6th July, 2026, it appears that accused persons being respondent nos.6 &amp; 7 are required to be apprehended for seizure of electronic devices lying with them so that data stored therein cannot be shared with others.’ &nbsp;"Concerned police authorities are directed to continue with their endeavour to apprehend respondent nos.6 &amp; 7 and to make seizure of devices so that obnoxious data stored therein shall not be further disseminated,” the court said in a statement. &nbsp;In the latest hearing on Tuesday, the court said it received communication from the inspector in charge at Mogra Police Station that ‘respondent no.6 has been apprehended at night on 11th August, 2026. Prayer is made for adjourning the matter, which would enable concerned police authorities to take steps post arrest of respondent no.6.’ &nbsp;Meanwhile, Porel hasn’t played any competitive cricket since the end of IPL 2026, in which he featured in just four matches. The uncapped keeper-batter, who made his IPL debut for Delhi in 2023, has played 35 IPL matches across four seasons and scored 769 runs, with 65 being his best. While his IPL strike rate reads 145.36, his average drops below 26. &nbsp;

Delhi Capitals wicketkeeper Abishek Porel has been arrested by Bengal's Mogra Police in a rape and sexual assault case following Calcutta High Court orders.

In a shocking development, Bengal and IPL franchise Delhi Capitals wicketkeeper-batter Abishek Porel has been arrested late Monday night by the Mogra Police under Hooghly (Rural) Police jurisdiction for alleged rape and sexual assault accusations. Following his arrest, police produced him before the Chief Judicial Magistrate Court in Chinsurah on Tuesday (Aug 11), in connection with a case first registered on June 23. After the initial hearing last month on July 14, the Calcutta High Court noted submissions from the petitioner's advocate that ‘further steps are required to be taken by the concerned police authorities to seize electronic devices lying with the accused persons containing obscene photographs of the petitioner to protect dignity and privacy of the petitioner.’ Also read| Sourav Ganguly and his wife receive death threats; Kolkata cops launch probe The court also noted that ‘having considered the respective submissions made on behalf of the parties and taking note of the contents of the communication dated 6th July, 2026, it appears that accused persons being respondent nos.6 & 7 are required to be apprehended for seizure of electronic devices lying with them so that data stored therein cannot be shared with others.’ "Concerned police authorities are directed to continue with their endeavour to apprehend respondent nos.6 & 7 and to make seizure of devices so that obnoxious data stored therein shall not be further disseminated,” the court said in a statement. In the latest hearing on Tuesday, the court said it received communication from the inspector in charge at Mogra Police Station that ‘respondent no.6 has been apprehended at night on 11th August, 2026. Prayer is made for adjourning the matter, which would enable concerned police authorities to take steps post arrest of respondent no.6.’ Meanwhile, Porel hasn’t played any competitive cricket since the end of IPL 2026, in which he featured in just four matches. The uncapped keeper-batter, who made his IPL debut for Delhi in 2023, has played 35 IPL matches across four seasons and scored 769 runs, with 65 being his best. While his IPL strike rate reads 145.36, his average drops below 26.

Delhi Capitals wicketkeeper Abishek Porel has been arrested by Bengal's Mogra Police in a rape and sexual assault case following Calcutta High Court orders.

Delhi Capitals keeper Abishek Porel arrested for alleged rape and sexual assault

Former Australian all-rounder Moises Henriques, 39, will captain Portugal, his birth nation, as they attempt to qualify for the 2028 T20 World Cup for the first time. Since switching nationalities in June this year, Henriques retired from Australia’s domestic cricket but will continue to play overseas. While already having signed with Glasgow Cosmic for the inaugural European T20 Premier League, the 39-year-old was named Portugal’s captain for the T20 World Cup qualifying tournament in Finland. &nbsp;Henriques was born in Madeira, a Portuguese island to the west of Morocco, which is also the birthplace of footballer Cristiano Ronaldo. When he was young, Henriques’ family moved to Australia, where the all-rounder enjoyed a decorated domestic career with New South Wales and the Sydney Sixers in the BBL. His last appearance for Australia came five years ago, a T20I against Bangladesh in Mirpur. He featured in four Tests, 16 ODIs and 24 T20Is for Australia.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sa20-chris-morris-interview-south-africa-cricket-depth-1786451324421">EXCLUSIVE | How SA20 is building South Africa's cricket future: Chris Morris explains</a> &nbsp;The European nation, however, is placed 37th in the ICC men’s T20I rankings and is scheduled to face Israel, Germany, Greece and Czechia in Group B of the T20 World Cup Sub-Regional Qualifier C between August 14 and 20. The winner of this group will play the Group A winner in the final on August 21. The overall winner of the Qualifier will join Scotland, Jersey and Denmark in the European regional final. The top two teams from that Qualifier will advance to the global Qualifier as they aim to qualify for the next T20 World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.<h3>Portugal squad -&nbsp;</h3>Moises Henriques (captain), Craig Cachopa, Edward Fleming, Christopher de Freitas, Rahulkumar Hashu, Siraj Ullah Khadem, Hardeep Khuttan, Jeremy Martins, Dhavalkumar Norotam (wk), Jordan Netto, Carlos Nunes, Sebastian de Oliveira, Upen Shantu and Cameron Shekleton<h3>Portugal Fixtures –&nbsp;</h3><ul><li>Israel (August 14)</li><li>Germany (August 15)&nbsp;</li><li>Greece (August 17)</li><li>Czechia (August 20)&nbsp;</li><li>Final (August 21)</li></ul>

Former Australian all-rounder Moises Henriques will captain his birth nation Portugal in the 2028 T20 World Cup qualifiers starting August 14.

Former Australian all-rounder Moises Henriques, 39, will captain Portugal, his birth nation, as they attempt to qualify for the 2028 T20 World Cup for the first time. Since switching nationalities in June this year, Henriques retired from Australia’s domestic cricket but will continue to play overseas. While already having signed with Glasgow Cosmic for the inaugural European T20 Premier League, the 39-year-old was named Portugal’s captain for the T20 World Cup qualifying tournament in Finland. Henriques was born in Madeira, a Portuguese island to the west of Morocco, which is also the birthplace of footballer Cristiano Ronaldo. When he was young, Henriques’ family moved to Australia, where the all-rounder enjoyed a decorated domestic career with New South Wales and the Sydney Sixers in the BBL. His last appearance for Australia came five years ago, a T20I against Bangladesh in Mirpur. He featured in four Tests, 16 ODIs and 24 T20Is for Australia. Also read| EXCLUSIVE | How SA20 is building South Africa's cricket future: Chris Morris explains The European nation, however, is placed 37th in the ICC men’s T20I rankings and is scheduled to face Israel, Germany, Greece and Czechia in Group B of the T20 World Cup Sub-Regional Qualifier C between August 14 and 20. The winner of this group will play the Group A winner in the final on August 21. The overall winner of the Qualifier will join Scotland, Jersey and Denmark in the European regional final. The top two teams from that Qualifier will advance to the global Qualifier as they aim to qualify for the next T20 World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. Portugal squad - Moises Henriques (captain), Craig Cachopa, Edward Fleming, Christopher de Freitas, Rahulkumar Hashu, Siraj Ullah Khadem, Hardeep Khuttan, Jeremy Martins, Dhavalkumar Norotam (wk), Jordan Netto, Carlos Nunes, Sebastian de Oliveira, Upen Shantu and Cameron Shekleton Portugal Fixtures – Israel (August 14) Germany (August 15) Greece (August 17) Czechia (August 20) Final (August 21)

Former Australian all-rounder Moises Henriques will captain his birth nation Portugal in the 2028 T20 World Cup qualifiers starting August 14.

From Australia to Portugal: Moises Henriques to lead birth nation in T20 World Cup Qualifiers

Former South African all-rounder Chris Morris detailed how the country’s premier franchise-based T20 league, SA20, is doing more than just bringing crowds to the stadiums and glitz and entertainment for the fans. Ahead of its fifth edition in January next year, the six-team tournament brought several changes to its retention and auction policies. Elated about the league’s growth and what it has done for the players, South Africa’s Cricket Board (CSA) and their cricket ecosystem, Morris explained how it is building depth for the future in an exclusive chat with WION. &nbsp;Morris tells WION that the young players rubbing shoulders with some of the best from the country and also overseas is doing more than just good for them. Explaining how previous challenges (regarding schedules) restricted their talents from growing into world-class match winners, Morris said SA20 is the one platform which has helped everyone overcome it. &nbsp;“It's definitely building depth. You've got young players playing against the best in the country, first of all. In the past, sometimes our domestic leagues would clash with international cricket, and our international players wouldn't be there, or there'd be an IPL on, or there'd be another league on where players would be playing overseas. &nbsp;“And what the SA20 has done is it's said, we're going to play all of our international players. So when you've got youngsters playing against the best that South Africa has, and obviously the best that some of the world has to offer, it's only going to make you better as a cricketer,” South African legend Chris Morris, in an interaction facilitated by SA20 ahead of the Season 5 Auction, said to WION.&nbsp;<h2>‘Watching legends train will help young players grow’</h2>Morris said thanks to the mandatory policy of having at least two Under-23 players in the squad for each franchise, those emerging from humble backgrounds get to share the dressing room with their idols.&nbsp; &nbsp;Morris, who once was the highest-paid overseas player in the IPL, said even watching those legends and training like them can convert the youngsters into match-winning products for the future.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-class-infra-science-backed-coaching-and-data-blueprint-for-making-india-sports-powerhouse-1786443287311">World-class infra, science-backed coaching, and data: Blueprint for making India sports powerhouse</a> &nbsp;“And youngsters that are coming in, even if they don't play, they are sharing a changing room with players, world-class players, that they can see how they train, how they go about their business. And I think what you pick up quite quickly as a youngster is you go, you see the world-class player, and you go, that's the standard that I need to be at. We all do it as young cricketers. &nbsp;“You watch how certain bowlers bowl, how they train, how bad it is, how many times they hit balls, how they go about their business. Are they in the gym? They watch the whole facet of what a player does. And I think, unfortunately, a lot of us fall short of, when we're young, we fall short of what we think we need to be doing as a cricketer,” Morris continued. &nbsp;Heaping praises on how this T20 league in particular is helping the emerging talent grow leaps and bounds in the country, Morris said, &nbsp;“When you've got those senior players or international players coming in, and you go, okay, that's the standard I need to be at if I want to play for South Africa and if I want to be as good as that person. And that creates depth because you take what you've learned from the SA20 and you take it into your domestic training, and the reality is that you go, right, I need to be like this if I want to play. And if you're taking that back to your franchise, all of a sudden, they're looking at the player that was playing at SA20, and they're going, well, that's how we need to train because that person at the top is training like that. &nbsp;“And it's just a domino effect. And it's one thing that you will realise when you get older in cricket. There's always someone younger, stronger, fitter that wants it more than you. &nbsp;“When you've got that going and a healthy cricket tournament and healthy cricket in the country, that's where you create the depth. And yeah, I think it's done an unbelievable job for that,” he concluded.

Former SA star Chris Morris tells WION how SA20 is building depth for South Africa's cricket future by pairing young talent with international legends.

Former South African all-rounder Chris Morris detailed how the country’s premier franchise-based T20 league, SA20, is doing more than just bringing crowds to the stadiums and glitz and entertainment for the fans. Ahead of its fifth edition in January next year, the six-team tournament brought several changes to its retention and auction policies. Elated about the league’s growth and what it has done for the players, South Africa’s Cricket Board (CSA) and their cricket ecosystem, Morris explained how it is building depth for the future in an exclusive chat with WION. Morris tells WION that the young players rubbing shoulders with some of the best from the country and also overseas is doing more than just good for them. Explaining how previous challenges (regarding schedules) restricted their talents from growing into world-class match winners, Morris said SA20 is the one platform which has helped everyone overcome it. “It's definitely building depth. You've got young players playing against the best in the country, first of all. In the past, sometimes our domestic leagues would clash with international cricket, and our international players wouldn't be there, or there'd be an IPL on, or there'd be another league on where players would be playing overseas. “And what the SA20 has done is it's said, we're going to play all of our international players. So when you've got youngsters playing against the best that South Africa has, and obviously the best that some of the world has to offer, it's only going to make you better as a cricketer,” South African legend Chris Morris, in an interaction facilitated by SA20 ahead of the Season 5 Auction, said to WION. ‘Watching legends train will help young players grow’ Morris said thanks to the mandatory policy of having at least two Under-23 players in the squad for each franchise, those emerging from humble backgrounds get to share the dressing room with their idols. Morris, who once was the highest-paid overseas player in the IPL, said even watching those legends and training like them can convert the youngsters into match-winning products for the future. Also read| World-class infra, science-backed coaching, and data: Blueprint for making India sports powerhouse “And youngsters that are coming in, even if they don't play, they are sharing a changing room with players, world-class players, that they can see how they train, how they go about their business. And I think what you pick up quite quickly as a youngster is you go, you see the world-class player, and you go, that's the standard that I need to be at. We all do it as young cricketers. “You watch how certain bowlers bowl, how they train, how bad it is, how many times they hit balls, how they go about their business. Are they in the gym? They watch the whole facet of what a player does. And I think, unfortunately, a lot of us fall short of, when we're young, we fall short of what we think we need to be doing as a cricketer,” Morris continued. Heaping praises on how this T20 league in particular is helping the emerging talent grow leaps and bounds in the country, Morris said, “When you've got those senior players or international players coming in, and you go, okay, that's the standard I need to be at if I want to play for South Africa and if I want to be as good as that person. And that creates depth because you take what you've learned from the SA20 and you take it into your domestic training, and the reality is that you go, right, I need to be like this if I want to play. And if you're taking that back to your franchise, all of a sudden, they're looking at the player that was playing at SA20, and they're going, well, that's how we need to train because that person at the top is training like that. “And it's just a domino effect. And it's one thing that you will realise when you get older in cricket. There's always someone younger, stronger, fitter that wants it more than you. “When you've got that going and a healthy cricket tournament and healthy cricket in the country, that's where you create the depth. And yeah, I think it's done an unbelievable job for that,” he concluded.

Former SA star Chris Morris tells WION how SA20 is building depth for South Africa's cricket future by pairing young talent with international legends.

EXCLUSIVE | How SA20 is building South Africa's cricket future: Chris Morris explains

Former Pakistan captain and talismanic keeper Rashid Latif has a strange suggestion for the PCB and the Test skipper Babar Azam ahead of the three-match Test series against England starting August 19. Latif feels the PCB should be smart and not send Babar for the pressers, and instead have the batting mainstay Shan Masood handle the media briefings. While Masood is arguably the most fluent English speaker in the squad, Latif’s logic goes beyond language—he fears the British media will try to create controversial headlines that could put Babar under undue pressure. &nbsp;“An England tour is a difficult assignment, and the English media often tries to unnecessarily involve visiting teams in news stories,” Rashid said on Geo News’ Score. “Babar Azam is an experienced player, so it would be better for the PCB management to keep him away from the English media and send former captain Shan Masood to speak to them more often. Shan has played in England and has better experience of dealing with the English media.”&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/irfan-pathan-kumar-sangakkara-sledging-delhi-test-2005-cheat-1786445677586">'Your Parents Teach You to Cheat': Irfan Pathan recalls fierce on-field spat with Sangakkara</a> &nbsp;Babar replaced Masood as Pakistan’s Test captain for the third time recently. Under Masood, Pakistan suffered a series of losses, pushing them further down and away from the WTC final qualification, across three cycles.&nbsp; &nbsp;However, in the current cycle, which concludes with a final next year in June in England, Pakistan sits at the bottom in ninth place, with two wins and four losses in six concluded Tests. Their latest assignment was an away two-match Test series against the West Indies, which ended in a draw, with Pakistan winning the second Test.<h2>Pakistan in England</h2>Pakistan will return to England for a Test series for the first time since 2020, when the hosts won the three-match series 1-0. Although England had toured Pakistan in the meantime, whitewashing them in a famous rout in 2022, the two teams will square off in Leeds, London and Birmingham this time. &nbsp;Pakistan had enjoyed touring England in the late 80s and early 90s, winning three consecutive away series -- 1-0 in 1987, 2-1 in 1992 and 2-0 in 1996 - but haven’t won a Test series in the UK since.&nbsp;<h3>Pakistan Test Squad for England Tests –</h3>Babar Azam (captain), Aamer Jamal, Abdullah Fazal, Ali Usman, Azan Awais, Imam-ul-Haq, Khurram Shahzad, Mohammad Abbas, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Rizwan, Awais Zafar, Ghazi Ghori, Sajid Khan, Salman Agha, Shan Masood, Ubaid Shah and Saud Shakeel (subject to fitness for England)

Ex-Pakistan captain Rashid Latif urges the PCB to keep Babar Azam away from English media during the UK Test tour and let Shan Masood handle pressers.

Former Pakistan captain and talismanic keeper Rashid Latif has a strange suggestion for the PCB and the Test skipper Babar Azam ahead of the three-match Test series against England starting August 19. Latif feels the PCB should be smart and not send Babar for the pressers, and instead have the batting mainstay Shan Masood handle the media briefings. While Masood is arguably the most fluent English speaker in the squad, Latif’s logic goes beyond language—he fears the British media will try to create controversial headlines that could put Babar under undue pressure. “An England tour is a difficult assignment, and the English media often tries to unnecessarily involve visiting teams in news stories,” Rashid said on Geo News’ Score. “Babar Azam is an experienced player, so it would be better for the PCB management to keep him away from the English media and send former captain Shan Masood to speak to them more often. Shan has played in England and has better experience of dealing with the English media.” Also read| 'Your Parents Teach You to Cheat': Irfan Pathan recalls fierce on-field spat with Sangakkara Babar replaced Masood as Pakistan’s Test captain for the third time recently. Under Masood, Pakistan suffered a series of losses, pushing them further down and away from the WTC final qualification, across three cycles. However, in the current cycle, which concludes with a final next year in June in England, Pakistan sits at the bottom in ninth place, with two wins and four losses in six concluded Tests. Their latest assignment was an away two-match Test series against the West Indies, which ended in a draw, with Pakistan winning the second Test. Pakistan in England Pakistan will return to England for a Test series for the first time since 2020, when the hosts won the three-match series 1-0. Although England had toured Pakistan in the meantime, whitewashing them in a famous rout in 2022, the two teams will square off in Leeds, London and Birmingham this time. Pakistan had enjoyed touring England in the late 80s and early 90s, winning three consecutive away series -- 1-0 in 1987, 2-1 in 1992 and 2-0 in 1996 - but haven’t won a Test series in the UK since. Pakistan Test Squad for England Tests – Babar Azam (captain), Aamer Jamal, Abdullah Fazal, Ali Usman, Azan Awais, Imam-ul-Haq, Khurram Shahzad, Mohammad Abbas, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Rizwan, Awais Zafar, Ghazi Ghori, Sajid Khan, Salman Agha, Shan Masood, Ubaid Shah and Saud Shakeel (subject to fitness for England)

Ex-Pakistan captain Rashid Latif urges the PCB to keep Babar Azam away from English media during the UK Test tour and let Shan Masood handle pressers.

'Send Shan Masood Instead': PCB urged to keep Babar Azam away from English media

Cricket sledging can get ugly sometimes, and one such instance between two former cricketers – Irfan Pathan and Kumar Sangakkara – was no different. Pathan, who helped India win the inaugural T20 World Cup in South Africa in 2007, was at the receiving end of a spat coming from behind the wickets during a Test between India and Sri Lanka in Delhi in 2005. Recalling this one instance involving talismanic keeper-batter Sangakkara, Pathan revealed how, when he was asked to open in the second innings and had smashed spin wizard Muttiah Muralitharan for two sixes, Sangakkara began sledging, calling the Indian team a cheat. &nbsp;Irfan shone with the bat in the second innings; however, it also involved chatter with Sri Lanka’s keeper, who seemingly crossed a line. Speaking in detail about it perhaps for the first time, Irfan revealed,&nbsp; &nbsp;“There was a Test match in Delhi. I opened and made 93. After the first innings, when we went to bowl, the box of balls had changed, or something like that happened, and Sri Lankan players were not happy. Sangakkara was the most vocal of all.&nbsp; &nbsp;“Then, when I went to bat, I had zero idea what had happened; I was asked to open. I hit Muralitharan for two sixes. If he is getting hit for sixes with the new ball, it means you have derailed the opposition's planning a bit.&nbsp; &nbsp;“Suddenly, Sangakkara started saying, 'You guys cheat, your parents teach you all this and blah blah.' He went personal, and I also answered back. He started it," Pathan said on 'Cheeky Singles'.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pondicherry-u-19-coach-venkataraman-faces-fir-in-alleged-attack-on-players-1786433585300">Pondicherry U-19 coach Venkataraman faces FIR in alleged attack on players</a> &nbsp;Years later, when the two played for Punjab Kings, then called Kings XI Punjab, in the cash-rich Indian Premier League, the two ended up apologising to each other.&nbsp; &nbsp;"After the auction, I saw I would be playing with Sangakkara at Punjab. Now I was eating with his family, and I did not know what to do. I went and told him sorry. He also apologised, and then we became good friends. Emotions are high, and you always make mistakes. It matters how maturely you handle things,” Pathan added.&nbsp;

Irfan Pathan recalls a fiery 2005 Test match spat with Kumar Sangakkara over cheating accusations, and how the duo later cleared the air during their IPL stint.

Cricket sledging can get ugly sometimes, and one such instance between two former cricketers – Irfan Pathan and Kumar Sangakkara – was no different. Pathan, who helped India win the inaugural T20 World Cup in South Africa in 2007, was at the receiving end of a spat coming from behind the wickets during a Test between India and Sri Lanka in Delhi in 2005. Recalling this one instance involving talismanic keeper-batter Sangakkara, Pathan revealed how, when he was asked to open in the second innings and had smashed spin wizard Muttiah Muralitharan for two sixes, Sangakkara began sledging, calling the Indian team a cheat. Irfan shone with the bat in the second innings; however, it also involved chatter with Sri Lanka’s keeper, who seemingly crossed a line. Speaking in detail about it perhaps for the first time, Irfan revealed, “There was a Test match in Delhi. I opened and made 93. After the first innings, when we went to bowl, the box of balls had changed, or something like that happened, and Sri Lankan players were not happy. Sangakkara was the most vocal of all. “Then, when I went to bat, I had zero idea what had happened; I was asked to open. I hit Muralitharan for two sixes. If he is getting hit for sixes with the new ball, it means you have derailed the opposition's planning a bit. “Suddenly, Sangakkara started saying, 'You guys cheat, your parents teach you all this and blah blah.' He went personal, and I also answered back. He started it," Pathan said on 'Cheeky Singles'. Also read| Pondicherry U-19 coach Venkataraman faces FIR in alleged attack on players Years later, when the two played for Punjab Kings, then called Kings XI Punjab, in the cash-rich Indian Premier League, the two ended up apologising to each other. "After the auction, I saw I would be playing with Sangakkara at Punjab. Now I was eating with his family, and I did not know what to do. I went and told him sorry. He also apologised, and then we became good friends. Emotions are high, and you always make mistakes. It matters how maturely you handle things,” Pathan added.

Irfan Pathan recalls a fiery 2005 Test match spat with Kumar Sangakkara over cheating accusations, and how the duo later cleared the air during their IPL stint.

'Your Parents Teach You to Cheat': Irfan Pathan recalls fierce on-field spat with Sangakkara

Pondicherry U-19 coach S Venkatraman is facing a FIR in an alleged scuffle with players which took place eight months ago. The case involved three players from Pondicherry Jayasundaram Karthikeyan (32), A Aravinddaraj (30) and S Santhosh Kumaran (28), who were accused of beating Venkataraman on December 8, 2025, at the Cricket Association of Pondicherry (CAP) complex. An FIR was filed against the players by the coach and now a FIR has been filed against the coach himself after the order of a Judicial Magistrate in Pondicherry.<h2>What is the whole case between Pondicherry coach and players?</h2>Venkatraman had alleged that the players had assaulted him, "insisting that I was the reason for their non-selection in the SMAT (Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy) squad." The police had filed an FIR on players but not action was taken on Karthikeyan's complaint against the coach on the same day of the incident.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hardik-pandya-ipl-trade-talks-mumbai-indians-kkr-csk-1786364042741">Hardik Pandya IPL Trade Deal: KKR keen, CSK await new coach as MI hold firm</a>The player had alleged in the complaint that Venkatraman, a former CAP joint-secretary, was the reason of escalation of tensions on the day of the incident."Venkatraman abused them and picked up a bat and attacked them. We committed no deliberate assault. The players sustained injuries and underwent a medical examination at a primary health centre," Karthikeyan’s advocate, M Sabari Selvam, told The Indian Express."We filed a complaint with the Sedarapet SHO and SP (North) on the same day of the attack. The police only acted on the complaint they later received from Venkatraman."Karthikeyan approached a petition with the Judicial Magistrate-IV of Pondicherry after the police failed to act on his complaint."The court direction was pronounced last month, and an FIR was registered against Venkatraman by the Sedarapet police last week. We have also lodged a formal complaint to the BCCI and the CAP, requesting an enquiry and immediate suspension of Venkatraman," the advocate said.The players, meanwhile, were suspended by the CAP in April 2026 for being involved in "a grave criminal case, including charges of attempt to murder and assault on Mr Venkataraman, CAP’s U19 coach."

The case involved three players from Pondicherry who were accused of beating Venkataraman on December 8, 2025, at the Cricket Association of Pondicherry (CAP) complex. An FIR was filed against the players by the coach and now a FIR has been filed against the coach himself.

Pondicherry U-19 coach S Venkatraman is facing a FIR in an alleged scuffle with players which took place eight months ago. The case involved three players from Pondicherry Jayasundaram Karthikeyan (32), A Aravinddaraj (30) and S Santhosh Kumaran (28), who were accused of beating Venkataraman on December 8, 2025, at the Cricket Association of Pondicherry (CAP) complex. An FIR was filed against the players by the coach and now a FIR has been filed against the coach himself after the order of a Judicial Magistrate in Pondicherry. What is the whole case between Pondicherry coach and players? Venkatraman had alleged that the players had assaulted him, "insisting that I was the reason for their non-selection in the SMAT (Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy) squad." The police had filed an FIR on players but not action was taken on Karthikeyan's complaint against the coach on the same day of the incident. Also Read - Hardik Pandya IPL Trade Deal: KKR keen, CSK await new coach as MI hold firm The player had alleged in the complaint that Venkatraman, a former CAP joint-secretary, was the reason of escalation of tensions on the day of the incident. "Venkatraman abused them and picked up a bat and attacked them. We committed no deliberate assault. The players sustained injuries and underwent a medical examination at a primary health centre," Karthikeyan’s advocate, M Sabari Selvam, told The Indian Express. "We filed a complaint with the Sedarapet SHO and SP (North) on the same day of the attack. The police only acted on the complaint they later received from Venkatraman." Karthikeyan approached a petition with the Judicial Magistrate-IV of Pondicherry after the police failed to act on his complaint. "The court direction was pronounced last month, and an FIR was registered against Venkatraman by the Sedarapet police last week. We have also lodged a formal complaint to the BCCI and the CAP, requesting an enquiry and immediate suspension of Venkatraman," the advocate said. The players, meanwhile, were suspended by the CAP in April 2026 for being involved in "a grave criminal case, including charges of attempt to murder and assault on Mr Venkataraman, CAP’s U19 coach."

The case involved three players from Pondicherry who were accused of beating Venkataraman on December 8, 2025, at the Cricket Association of Pondicherry (CAP) complex. An FIR was filed against the players by the coach and now a FIR has been filed against the coach himself.

Pondicherry U-19 coach Venkataraman faces FIR in alleged attack on players

Afghanistan's win in third ODI against Ireland on Monday (Aug 10) during the ongoing five-match series has pushed two-time champions West Indies out of direct qualification equation for the upcoming ODI World Cup 2027. The 1975 and 1979 champions will now have to play in the qualifier, which begins in February next year, to make it to the marquee event. This is the third consecutive time former champions have failed to directly qualify for the 50-over World Cup. In 2019, they made it to the main event through qualification, but failed to secure a spot in the 2023 edition in a new low for once a formidable force in international cricket.<h2>How West Indies failed to qualify directly for ODI World Cup 2027?</h2>As per the ICC qualification process, top eight teams, excluding the hosts South Africa and Zimbabwe, will get direct entry in the ODI World Cup 2027. The ICC has set the direct qualification ranking date as September 30. Along with hosts South Africa and Zimbabwe, which get direct entry, the eight teams which will join them are: India, Australia, England, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and New Zealand.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/back-to-back-ipl-winner-kumar-ready-for-india-comeback-but-says-it-is-the-selectors-call-1786352292097">Back-to-back IPL winner ready for India comeback but says it's 'selectors’ call'</a>West Indies, though have two-match ODI series against India left before the September 30 cut off date to decide the rankings but they won't be able to break into the top eight event if the win the series, leaving them to play the qualifiers.Notably, West Indies are only one of three countries to have won the ODI World Cup multiple times - in 1975 and 1979 - along with India (1983, 2011), and Australia (1987, 1999, 2003, 2007, 2015, and 2023).<h2>How Afghanistan pushed out West Indies?</h2>In the third ODI of the five-match series, Afghanistan entered the contest with 1-0 lead with a win in the second match after the first game was washed out. In the third match on Monday (Aug 10) in Belfast, Ireland scored 206 while batting first. Afghanistan, chased down the 207-run target in 44.5 overs with three wickets left with take unassailable 2-0 &nbsp;lead in the series with two more matches left to play.

West Indies, though have two-match ODI series against India left before the September 30 cut off date to decide the rankings but they won't be able to break into the top eight event if the win the series, leaving them to play the qualifiers.

Afghanistan's win in third ODI against Ireland on Monday (Aug 10) during the ongoing five-match series has pushed two-time champions West Indies out of direct qualification equation for the upcoming ODI World Cup 2027. The 1975 and 1979 champions will now have to play in the qualifier, which begins in February next year, to make it to the marquee event. This is the third consecutive time former champions have failed to directly qualify for the 50-over World Cup. In 2019, they made it to the main event through qualification, but failed to secure a spot in the 2023 edition in a new low for once a formidable force in international cricket. How West Indies failed to qualify directly for ODI World Cup 2027? As per the ICC qualification process, top eight teams, excluding the hosts South Africa and Zimbabwe, will get direct entry in the ODI World Cup 2027. The ICC has set the direct qualification ranking date as September 30. Along with hosts South Africa and Zimbabwe, which get direct entry, the eight teams which will join them are: India, Australia, England, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and New Zealand. Also Read - Back-to-back IPL winner ready for India comeback but says it's 'selectors’ call' West Indies, though have two-match ODI series against India left before the September 30 cut off date to decide the rankings but they won't be able to break into the top eight event if the win the series, leaving them to play the qualifiers. Notably, West Indies are only one of three countries to have won the ODI World Cup multiple times - in 1975 and 1979 - along with India (1983, 2011), and Australia (1987, 1999, 2003, 2007, 2015, and 2023). How Afghanistan pushed out West Indies? In the third ODI of the five-match series, Afghanistan entered the contest with 1-0 lead with a win in the second match after the first game was washed out. In the third match on Monday (Aug 10) in Belfast, Ireland scored 206 while batting first. Afghanistan, chased down the 207-run target in 44.5 overs with three wickets left with take unassailable 2-0 lead in the series with two more matches left to play.

West Indies, though have two-match ODI series against India left before the September 30 cut off date to decide the rankings but they won't be able to break into the top eight event if the win the series, leaving them to play the qualifiers.

ODI World Cup 2027: West Indies fail to qualify directly after Afghanistan beat Ireland

Cricket great Sourav Ganguly and his wife, Dona Ganguly, have received death threats, with the couple lodging a complaint with the Kolkata police. The talismanic former Indian captain and BCCI president opened the threat letter at the office of the Bengal cricket president on Monday (Aug 10), which was written entirely in English and contained explicit threats to ‘eliminate’ or ‘finish’ the cricketer and his family. &nbsp;The Ganguly family claimed that such letters kept coming in for the past six months, but their repeated nature and the aggressive language used in the most recent one prompted them to take the matter to the cops. Ganguly and his wife have now lodged a formal complaint at the Thakurpukur Police Station, with the state government security also being alerted and asked to take swift, necessary action.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-hate-the-name-narendra-boxer-story-pm-modi-cwg-2026-1786376294077">‘I Hate the Name Narendra’: Indian CWG boxer’s story about Pakistani opponent leaves PM Modi in splits | WATCH</a> &nbsp;"I wish to bring to your kind attention a matter of serious concern regarding certain threatening letters that have been received by Mr Sourav Ganguly and his family,” the complaint letter read. &nbsp;"For the past couple of months, we have been receiving letters from an unknown person objectionable remarks against Mr Ganguly. Initially, we didn't pay much attention to these letters, assuming that they were merely the work of someone who disliked Mr Ganguly and was sending letters expressing his/her personal resentment. &nbsp;"However, today we have received two letters addressed to Mr Sourav Ganguly and Mrs Dona Ganguly, in which the sender has not only made hate remarks against Mr Ganguly but has also issued serious threats to the life and safety of Mr Ganguly, Mrs Dona Ganguly and the people working [with/for] him. &nbsp;"The nature of the threats contained in the letters has caused serious concern among us. Since the letters have now escalated from hate/derogatory communication to explicit threats to life and personal safety, we believe that the matter requires immediate police intervention and investigation," read the statement on the complaint. &nbsp;"In view of the seriousness of the matter, I request you to kindly take necessary action, register and investigate the complaint, identify the person responsible for sending these threatening letters, and take appropriate steps to ensure the safety and security of Mr Sourav Ganguly, Mrs Dona Ganguly and the staff working with them,” the official complaint read.&nbsp; &nbsp;Early investigation into the matter suggests that the letters were sent via courier to Ganguly’s residence, with the sender’s name on the packet listed as Arun Kumar, a Belgharia resident. The cops traced a phone number mentioned in the letter, with the search leading up to the same name. &nbsp;The police are now looking into whether it was the real Arun Kumar who was sending Ganguly and his wife death threats, or if someone is using his identity to target the former Indian captain.&nbsp; &nbsp;"We have started an investigation and are taking all necessary measures to ensure the safety of Mr Ganguly and his family," police officials confirmed after receiving the complaint.

Former India captain Sourav Ganguly and his wife Dona Ganguly have received death threats, prompting a formal police complaint at Thakurpukur Police Station. Kolkata Police have launched a probe. 

Cricket great Sourav Ganguly and his wife, Dona Ganguly, have received death threats, with the couple lodging a complaint with the Kolkata police. The talismanic former Indian captain and BCCI president opened the threat letter at the office of the Bengal cricket president on Monday (Aug 10), which was written entirely in English and contained explicit threats to ‘eliminate’ or ‘finish’ the cricketer and his family. The Ganguly family claimed that such letters kept coming in for the past six months, but their repeated nature and the aggressive language used in the most recent one prompted them to take the matter to the cops. Ganguly and his wife have now lodged a formal complaint at the Thakurpukur Police Station, with the state government security also being alerted and asked to take swift, necessary action. Also read| ‘I Hate the Name Narendra’: Indian CWG boxer’s story about Pakistani opponent leaves PM Modi in splits | WATCH "I wish to bring to your kind attention a matter of serious concern regarding certain threatening letters that have been received by Mr Sourav Ganguly and his family,” the complaint letter read. "For the past couple of months, we have been receiving letters from an unknown person objectionable remarks against Mr Ganguly. Initially, we didn't pay much attention to these letters, assuming that they were merely the work of someone who disliked Mr Ganguly and was sending letters expressing his/her personal resentment. "However, today we have received two letters addressed to Mr Sourav Ganguly and Mrs Dona Ganguly, in which the sender has not only made hate remarks against Mr Ganguly but has also issued serious threats to the life and safety of Mr Ganguly, Mrs Dona Ganguly and the people working [with/for] him. "The nature of the threats contained in the letters has caused serious concern among us. Since the letters have now escalated from hate/derogatory communication to explicit threats to life and personal safety, we believe that the matter requires immediate police intervention and investigation," read the statement on the complaint. "In view of the seriousness of the matter, I request you to kindly take necessary action, register and investigate the complaint, identify the person responsible for sending these threatening letters, and take appropriate steps to ensure the safety and security of Mr Sourav Ganguly, Mrs Dona Ganguly and the staff working with them,” the official complaint read. Early investigation into the matter suggests that the letters were sent via courier to Ganguly’s residence, with the sender’s name on the packet listed as Arun Kumar, a Belgharia resident. The cops traced a phone number mentioned in the letter, with the search leading up to the same name. The police are now looking into whether it was the real Arun Kumar who was sending Ganguly and his wife death threats, or if someone is using his identity to target the former Indian captain. "We have started an investigation and are taking all necessary measures to ensure the safety of Mr Ganguly and his family," police officials confirmed after receiving the complaint.

Former India captain Sourav Ganguly and his wife Dona Ganguly have received death threats, prompting a formal police complaint at Thakurpukur Police Station. Kolkata Police have launched a probe.&nbsp;

Sourav Ganguly and his wife receive death threats; Kolkata cops launch probe

Associate nations, including Scotland and the Netherlands, have come down hard on the ICC for the lack of communication and clarity on the revised ODI World Cup format. The ICC revamped the structure just 15 months before the showpiece event in Africa next year, introducing a Super Series Stage. In that, the 12th, 13th and 14th-ranked qualifying teams in a tri-series will compete for just one place in the second round of the World Cup, where 12 teams will be divided into two groups. &nbsp;Following the format-changing announcement from the ICC, Cricket Scotland and the Royal Dutch Cricket Association (KNCB, the Netherlands Cricket Board) held two meetings with the apex body seeking official written communication on the changes and greater clarity on the processes involved. Upon receiving no response from the ICC two weeks since their last catch-up on the matter, the two associate boards, among others, jointly released a statement, terming the development ‘disappointing and disrespectful’.<h2>‘Setback to Associate Member Cricket’</h2>Both Cricket Scotland and the KNCB fear the new structure will limit meaningful match time for associate nations just as cricket aims to expand globally. While reaffirming their willingness to work constructively with the ICC, the boards voiced deep alarm over the nature of the decision and the lack of consultation.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/odi-world-cup-2027-kagiso-rabada-sure-of-co-host-south-africa-defending-the-fortress-1786341501382">ODI World Cup 2027: Kagiso Rabada sure of co-host South Africa ‘defending the fortress’</a> &nbsp;"These changes represent a setback to Associate Member cricket and risk undermining the progress made in recent years to grow the global game," the two boards said.&nbsp; &nbsp;"At a time when cricket is seeking to expand its reach, attract new audiences and strengthen its position on the international sporting landscape, reducing meaningful opportunities for emerging nations sends entirely the wrong message. &nbsp;"Cricket Scotland and the KNCB remain fully committed to working constructively with the ICC and fellow Members to strengthen the global game. However, we have significant concerns about both the impact of these changes and the process through which they have been introduced. &nbsp;"Following the announcement of the changes, Cricket Scotland, KNCB and other Associate Members met twice with the ICC, seeking official written communication on the changes and greater clarity around the processes involved. We also requested positive action to strengthen future operational decision-making and an invitation to bilateral planning meetings with Full Members. Since the second meeting more than two weeks ago, there has been no further response from the ICC, which is disappointing and disrespectful given the significance of the issues raised,” the statement read. &nbsp;Meanwhile, the captains of Namibia, Netherlands and Scotland also expressed their reservations on the format change last month, through a statement released by the World Cricketers' Association, cricket's global player union. The Namibia Cricket chair, Rudi van Vuuren, also said that following such changes, the players will put the revised World Cup schedule into context, prioritising T20 as the format for growth.&nbsp;

Cricket Scotland and the KNCB slam the ICC for a lack of response and clarity on radical 2027 ODI World Cup format changes, labelling the silence "disrespectful". 

Associate nations, including Scotland and the Netherlands, have come down hard on the ICC for the lack of communication and clarity on the revised ODI World Cup format. The ICC revamped the structure just 15 months before the showpiece event in Africa next year, introducing a Super Series Stage. In that, the 12th, 13th and 14th-ranked qualifying teams in a tri-series will compete for just one place in the second round of the World Cup, where 12 teams will be divided into two groups. Following the format-changing announcement from the ICC, Cricket Scotland and the Royal Dutch Cricket Association (KNCB, the Netherlands Cricket Board) held two meetings with the apex body seeking official written communication on the changes and greater clarity on the processes involved. Upon receiving no response from the ICC two weeks since their last catch-up on the matter, the two associate boards, among others, jointly released a statement, terming the development ‘disappointing and disrespectful’. ‘Setback to Associate Member Cricket’ Both Cricket Scotland and the KNCB fear the new structure will limit meaningful match time for associate nations just as cricket aims to expand globally. While reaffirming their willingness to work constructively with the ICC, the boards voiced deep alarm over the nature of the decision and the lack of consultation. Also read| ODI World Cup 2027: Kagiso Rabada sure of co-host South Africa ‘defending the fortress’ "These changes represent a setback to Associate Member cricket and risk undermining the progress made in recent years to grow the global game," the two boards said. "At a time when cricket is seeking to expand its reach, attract new audiences and strengthen its position on the international sporting landscape, reducing meaningful opportunities for emerging nations sends entirely the wrong message. "Cricket Scotland and the KNCB remain fully committed to working constructively with the ICC and fellow Members to strengthen the global game. However, we have significant concerns about both the impact of these changes and the process through which they have been introduced. "Following the announcement of the changes, Cricket Scotland, KNCB and other Associate Members met twice with the ICC, seeking official written communication on the changes and greater clarity around the processes involved. We also requested positive action to strengthen future operational decision-making and an invitation to bilateral planning meetings with Full Members. Since the second meeting more than two weeks ago, there has been no further response from the ICC, which is disappointing and disrespectful given the significance of the issues raised,” the statement read. Meanwhile, the captains of Namibia, Netherlands and Scotland also expressed their reservations on the format change last month, through a statement released by the World Cricketers' Association, cricket's global player union. The Namibia Cricket chair, Rudi van Vuuren, also said that following such changes, the players will put the revised World Cup schedule into context, prioritising T20 as the format for growth.

Cricket Scotland and the KNCB slam the ICC for a lack of response and clarity on radical 2027 ODI World Cup format changes, labelling the silence "disrespectful".&nbsp;

'Disrespectful': Netherlands, Scotland slam ICC over silence on ODI World Cup format changes

Team India concluded its scheduled warm-up fixture against Sri Lanka XI at the Nondescripts Cricket Club in Colombo with a win, and the team’s batting coach, Sitanshu Kotak, said it did more for their batting than days of conventional training could. The visitors completed a six-wicket win ahead of the two-match Test series starting on August 15 in Galle. All players across all departments received valuable match time ahead of India’s first series in the ongoing WTC cycle this year. &nbsp;From first-team players, including Test captain Shubman Gill, who sustained a thumb injury on the eve of this warm-up fixture, to the potential returnees to the Test side for the series opener like Devdutt Padikkal, everyone batted across the three-day contest. Kotak, however, was particularly impressed with the intensity on display, noting that the competitive nature of this practice match is more valuable than the routine training sessions.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hardik-pandya-ipl-trade-talks-mumbai-indians-kkr-csk-1786364042741">Hardik Pandya IPL Trade Deal: KKR interested, CSK await new coach as MI hold firm</a> &nbsp;“I think it was very good, very productive because if we practice four more days, I don't think it will be as good as the practice match because the bowlers bowled with good intensity. I think the batters batted well and we actually tried that everyone, even bowlers, get to bat and all the bowlers get enough loading what is required,” Kotak said in a video shared by the BCCI on X. &nbsp;Despite not having Gill for the first innings and also Sai Sudharsan, who was ruled out of the Test series, Indian batters impressed all, mainly Padikkal, who scored a brilliant unbeaten 142 off 164 balls. Among the bowlers, uncapped Test seamer Gurnoor Brar, Prasidh Krishna and frontline quick Mohammed Siraj all produced impressive performances. &nbsp;“I think Devdutt batted really well, the way Gurnoor also bowled, and our fast bowlers put a lot of effort on the wicket where there was nothing. All the pacers put in a lot of effort. I think it was all in all a very good practice match. But for me, Devdutt's innings was also really good,” he continued. &nbsp;Besides their bowling exploits, Kotak was left in awe of Gurnoor and Siraj’s six-hitting abilities during different stages of the match. &nbsp;“It's been very good. I would say Gurnoor and Siraj hitting sixes, three to four-four sixes,” he added. &nbsp;Galle will host the first Test and Colombo the second starting August 23.

India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak hails Team India's six-wicket warm-up win over Sri Lanka XI, highlighting Devdutt Padikkal's 142* and key match practice ahead of the 1st Test in Galle. 

Team India concluded its scheduled warm-up fixture against Sri Lanka XI at the Nondescripts Cricket Club in Colombo with a win, and the team’s batting coach, Sitanshu Kotak, said it did more for their batting than days of conventional training could. The visitors completed a six-wicket win ahead of the two-match Test series starting on August 15 in Galle. All players across all departments received valuable match time ahead of India’s first series in the ongoing WTC cycle this year. From first-team players, including Test captain Shubman Gill, who sustained a thumb injury on the eve of this warm-up fixture, to the potential returnees to the Test side for the series opener like Devdutt Padikkal, everyone batted across the three-day contest. Kotak, however, was particularly impressed with the intensity on display, noting that the competitive nature of this practice match is more valuable than the routine training sessions. Also read| Hardik Pandya IPL Trade Deal: KKR interested, CSK await new coach as MI hold firm “I think it was very good, very productive because if we practice four more days, I don't think it will be as good as the practice match because the bowlers bowled with good intensity. I think the batters batted well and we actually tried that everyone, even bowlers, get to bat and all the bowlers get enough loading what is required,” Kotak said in a video shared by the BCCI on X. Despite not having Gill for the first innings and also Sai Sudharsan, who was ruled out of the Test series, Indian batters impressed all, mainly Padikkal, who scored a brilliant unbeaten 142 off 164 balls. Among the bowlers, uncapped Test seamer Gurnoor Brar, Prasidh Krishna and frontline quick Mohammed Siraj all produced impressive performances. “I think Devdutt batted really well, the way Gurnoor also bowled, and our fast bowlers put a lot of effort on the wicket where there was nothing. All the pacers put in a lot of effort. I think it was all in all a very good practice match. But for me, Devdutt's innings was also really good,” he continued. Besides their bowling exploits, Kotak was left in awe of Gurnoor and Siraj’s six-hitting abilities during different stages of the match. “It's been very good. I would say Gurnoor and Siraj hitting sixes, three to four-four sixes,” he added. Galle will host the first Test and Colombo the second starting August 23.

India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak hails Team India's six-wicket warm-up win over Sri Lanka XI, highlighting Devdutt Padikkal's 142* and key match practice ahead of the 1st Test in Galle.&nbsp;

IND vs SL 2026: Warm-up game helped India more than days of conventional training could, says Kotak

Hardik Pandya IPL trade talks are back in the headlines. While the Mumbai Indians (MI) captain is reportedly close to joining a new franchise ahead of IPL 2027, with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) leading the race, MI's unwillingness to trade him has also surfaced on social media. Though those interested, including the Rajasthan Royals and the Lucknow Super Giants, have their reservations, like his trade price and ambitions, CSK await the signing of a new head coach before progressing with Pandya’s trade deal. &nbsp;Pandya’s trade continues to hold the keys for all potential teams vying for his services from next season onwards. While the Mumbai Indians have neither denied nor accepted talks with any franchise regarding Pandya’s possible switch, the abovementioned teams are busy ironing out their plans before pulling the trigger.<h2>So which team is facing what problem?</h2>Pandya’s growing stature as the league’s best all-rounder and his ambitions of captaining the IPL franchise make him the best candidate to join KKR, who are also in need of a new skipper following Ajinkya Rahane’s retirement. However, the issue they are facing is what Mumbai has asked for in return – a marquee batter and a bowler or Cameron Green in exchange for Pandya. While KKR could still line up a batter and a bowler for Pandya’s switch, letting go of Green is not on their radar.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/back-to-back-ipl-winner-kumar-ready-for-india-comeback-but-says-it-is-the-selectors-call-1786352292097">Back-to-back IPL winner Kumar ready for India comeback but says it is ‘the selectors’ call’</a> &nbsp;For CSK, who earlier traded Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran for Sanju Samson from the Rajasthan Royals, the absence of a head coach keeps them out of the equation for now. Per a Cricbuzz report, Brendon McCullum could be considered as Stephen Fleming's replacement at CSK, having already plied his trade for the franchise as a player. Ironically, it was Fleming who replaced him as England’s new Test head coach. McCullum, however, remains in charge as their head coach in ODIs and T20Is. &nbsp;While teams like LSG and RR were also reportedly interested in signing Pandya as their marquee player, nothing concrete has formalised beyond the speculation stage. Another IPL team that could make this Pandya trade deal a reality was Delhi Capitals, who could swap their captain, Axar Patel – a kind of player that Mumbai needs more to solve their lower-order and spin-bowling all-rounder conundrum. That, however, is also highly unlikely. &nbsp;Meanwhile, Pandya is currently closing in on his full fitness after spending most of his time at BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru. After having some backdoor conversations with Mumbai Indians earlier, he awaits the franchise’s stance on his future.&nbsp;

Hardik Pandya's IPL trade talks have gained momentum as KKR and CSK monitor the Mumbai Indians skipper, with team balance, coaching shifts, and player swap demands shaping the potential blockbuster deal.

Hardik Pandya IPL trade talks are back in the headlines. While the Mumbai Indians (MI) captain is reportedly close to joining a new franchise ahead of IPL 2027, with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) leading the race, MI's unwillingness to trade him has also surfaced on social media. Though those interested, including the Rajasthan Royals and the Lucknow Super Giants, have their reservations, like his trade price and ambitions, CSK await the signing of a new head coach before progressing with Pandya’s trade deal. Pandya’s trade continues to hold the keys for all potential teams vying for his services from next season onwards. While the Mumbai Indians have neither denied nor accepted talks with any franchise regarding Pandya’s possible switch, the abovementioned teams are busy ironing out their plans before pulling the trigger. So which team is facing what problem? Pandya’s growing stature as the league’s best all-rounder and his ambitions of captaining the IPL franchise make him the best candidate to join KKR, who are also in need of a new skipper following Ajinkya Rahane’s retirement. However, the issue they are facing is what Mumbai has asked for in return – a marquee batter and a bowler or Cameron Green in exchange for Pandya. While KKR could still line up a batter and a bowler for Pandya’s switch, letting go of Green is not on their radar. Also read| Back-to-back IPL winner Kumar ready for India comeback but says it is ‘the selectors’ call’ For CSK, who earlier traded Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran for Sanju Samson from the Rajasthan Royals, the absence of a head coach keeps them out of the equation for now. Per a Cricbuzz report, Brendon McCullum could be considered as Stephen Fleming's replacement at CSK, having already plied his trade for the franchise as a player. Ironically, it was Fleming who replaced him as England’s new Test head coach. McCullum, however, remains in charge as their head coach in ODIs and T20Is. While teams like LSG and RR were also reportedly interested in signing Pandya as their marquee player, nothing concrete has formalised beyond the speculation stage. Another IPL team that could make this Pandya trade deal a reality was Delhi Capitals, who could swap their captain, Axar Patel – a kind of player that Mumbai needs more to solve their lower-order and spin-bowling all-rounder conundrum. That, however, is also highly unlikely. Meanwhile, Pandya is currently closing in on his full fitness after spending most of his time at BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru. After having some backdoor conversations with Mumbai Indians earlier, he awaits the franchise’s stance on his future.

Hardik Pandya's IPL trade talks have gained momentum as KKR and CSK monitor the Mumbai Indians skipper, with team balance, coaching shifts, and player swap demands shaping the potential blockbuster deal.

Hardik Pandya IPL Trade Deal: KKR interested, CSK await new coach as MI hold firm

India's pace stocks have taken a hit in the recent times with injuries to bowlers including spearhead Jasprit Bumrah. With Mohammed Shami not being picked, India now rely on the likes of Mohammed Siraj, Gurnoor Brar, Prasidh Krishna, and others. The ODI World Cup 2027 is the next big ICC event and the calls for veteran Bhuvneshwar Kumar's comeback have been growing steadily. Kumar, once the most prominent swing bowlers of India, last played for the country in 2022. His performance in the IPL 2025 (17 wickets) and 2026 (purple cap 28 wickets), which he won with the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), &nbsp;have brought the focus back on him.<h2>Bhuvi 'ready' to play if recalled in Indian side</h2>"Why would I say no if I get a call? Absolutely ready," he said on the sidelines of UPT20 event. "Honestly, I cannot say exactly how ready I am. My job is to play cricket and that is why I have come here to play in the UP T20 league. I didn’t come here with the intention of moving to another place or reaching another level. We play IPL knowing we have to perform and win matches for the team, but I didn’t come here to the UP T20 league hoping to get picked elsewhere or because someone said something. How prepared I am is not for me to decide; the rest is the selectors’ call."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/odi-world-cup-2027-kagiso-rabada-sure-of-co-host-south-africa-defending-the-fortress-1786341501382">ODI World Cup 2027: Kagiso Rabada sure of co-host South Africa 'defending the fortress'</a><h2>Bhuvi's numbers for India</h2>Kumar has represented India in 21 Tests, 121 ODIs, and 87 T20I, taking 63, 141, and 90 wickets respectively. He last played a Test in 2018 against South Africa in Johannesberg. The last ODI also came against South Africa, in January 2022, at Paarl while the last T20I came later in the same year in November against New Zealand at Napier.With the ODI World Cup 2027 taking place in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia, Kumar's addition could be beneficial for India on the helpful pitches.

Kumar, once the most prominent swing bowlers of India, last played for the country in 2022. His performance in the IPL 2025 (17 wickets) and 2026 (purple cap 28 wickets), which he won with the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB),  have brought the focus back on him.

India's pace stocks have taken a hit in the recent times with injuries to bowlers including spearhead Jasprit Bumrah. With Mohammed Shami not being picked, India now rely on the likes of Mohammed Siraj, Gurnoor Brar, Prasidh Krishna, and others. The ODI World Cup 2027 is the next big ICC event and the calls for veteran Bhuvneshwar Kumar's comeback have been growing steadily. Kumar, once the most prominent swing bowlers of India, last played for the country in 2022. His performance in the IPL 2025 (17 wickets) and 2026 (purple cap 28 wickets), which he won with the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), have brought the focus back on him. Bhuvi 'ready' to play if recalled in Indian side "Why would I say no if I get a call? Absolutely ready," he said on the sidelines of UPT20 event. "Honestly, I cannot say exactly how ready I am. My job is to play cricket and that is why I have come here to play in the UP T20 league. I didn’t come here with the intention of moving to another place or reaching another level. We play IPL knowing we have to perform and win matches for the team, but I didn’t come here to the UP T20 league hoping to get picked elsewhere or because someone said something. How prepared I am is not for me to decide; the rest is the selectors’ call." Also Read - ODI World Cup 2027: Kagiso Rabada sure of co-host South Africa 'defending the fortress' Bhuvi's numbers for India Kumar has represented India in 21 Tests, 121 ODIs, and 87 T20I, taking 63, 141, and 90 wickets respectively. He last played a Test in 2018 against South Africa in Johannesberg. The last ODI also came against South Africa, in January 2022, at Paarl while the last T20I came later in the same year in November against New Zealand at Napier. With the ODI World Cup 2027 taking place in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia, Kumar's addition could be beneficial for India on the helpful pitches.

Kumar, once the most prominent swing bowlers of India, last played for the country in 2022. His performance in the IPL 2025 (17 wickets) and 2026 (purple cap 28 wickets), which he won with the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), &nbsp;have brought the focus back on him.

Back-to-back IPL winner Kumar ready for India comeback but says it is 'the selectors’ call'

The ODI World Cup 2027 is still an over year away but the buzz around the marquee 50-over tournament is getting stronger with each passing day. The 14th edition of the tournament will be jointly co-host by South Africa, Namibia, and Zimbabwe and the Protea pacer Kagiso Rabada is sure of defending the 'fortress.' The last time South Africa hosted the ODI World Cup was in 2003 where Australia beat India in the final. As for South Africa, they have never been to a final of the event which started in 1975. South Africa's best performance in the ODI World Cup history is reaching the semi-final on five occassions - 1992, 1999, 2007, 2015, and 2023.<h2>Rabada sure of South Africa protecting the 'fortress' at home ODI World Cup 2027</h2>Rabad, who has been part of South Africa's ODI World Cup squads in 2019 and 2023, said the team doesn't feel pressure being the host. "Well, I think there's a lot more to it at the moment with us hosting it," Rabada said at the official Cricket World Cup 2027 venue and brand announcement event in Johannesburg recently as reported by the ICC.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/coe-chief-vvs-laxman-explains-why-bcci-is-unable-to-hire-a-sports-science-and-medicine-head-1786333714423">CoE chief VVS Laxman explains why BCCI is unable to hire a Sports Science and Medicine head</a>"It's almost like freedom as well. I don't feel the pressure of us playing at home and feeling the need to win it. It's almost like, we're at home and we're going to defend this fortress. And that's what it means to me. It's about representing the badge."South Africa are infamous of choking under pressure in crunch matches but their World Test Championship (WTC) win last year against Australia makes Rabada feel that it is no longer the case."We've shown that we can go and play in finals and in the semi-finals," Rabada said. "It’s just about that last step. So the confidence is there. The belief is most definitely there, just about going that one extra step."

South Africa are infamous of choking under pressure in crunch matches but their World Test Championship (WTC) win last year against Australia makes Rabada feel that it is no longer the case.

The ODI World Cup 2027 is still an over year away but the buzz around the marquee 50-over tournament is getting stronger with each passing day. The 14th edition of the tournament will be jointly co-host by South Africa, Namibia, and Zimbabwe and the Protea pacer Kagiso Rabada is sure of defending the 'fortress.' The last time South Africa hosted the ODI World Cup was in 2003 where Australia beat India in the final. As for South Africa, they have never been to a final of the event which started in 1975. South Africa's best performance in the ODI World Cup history is reaching the semi-final on five occassions - 1992, 1999, 2007, 2015, and 2023. Rabada sure of South Africa protecting the 'fortress' at home ODI World Cup 2027 Rabad, who has been part of South Africa's ODI World Cup squads in 2019 and 2023, said the team doesn't feel pressure being the host. "Well, I think there's a lot more to it at the moment with us hosting it," Rabada said at the official Cricket World Cup 2027 venue and brand announcement event in Johannesburg recently as reported by the ICC. Also Read - CoE chief VVS Laxman explains why BCCI is unable to hire a Sports Science and Medicine head "It's almost like freedom as well. I don't feel the pressure of us playing at home and feeling the need to win it. It's almost like, we're at home and we're going to defend this fortress. And that's what it means to me. It's about representing the badge." South Africa are infamous of choking under pressure in crunch matches but their World Test Championship (WTC) win last year against Australia makes Rabada feel that it is no longer the case. "We've shown that we can go and play in finals and in the semi-finals," Rabada said. "It’s just about that last step. So the confidence is there. The belief is most definitely there, just about going that one extra step."

South Africa are infamous of choking under pressure in crunch matches but their World Test Championship (WTC) win last year against Australia makes Rabada feel that it is no longer the case.

ODI World Cup 2027: Kagiso Rabada sure of co-host South Africa 'defending the fortress'

Indian cricket team's inury crisis has brought serious attention towards the BCCI's Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru, headed by former batter VVS Laxman. Multiple players have been injured in the recent past with the latest being Sai Sudharsan, who has been withdrawn from upcoming Sri Lanka Test tour. Sai, along with Bumrah, was named in the Indian squad but both failed to recover in time, prompting their withdrawl. Laxman, meanwhile, has defended CoE's role and revealed that the centre is facing difficulties in hiring a new Sports Science and Medicine (SSM) head, leading to these issues. BCCI is one of the richest boards in the world then why it is hard for them to hire a SSM head?<h2>Why BCCI is unable to hire a SSM head for CoE?</h2>Laxman spoke at length about the CoE's role in players' injury management and recovery but shared that it is hard to do so without a Sports Science and Medicine (SSM) head. The former batter cited potential candidates backing off at the last moment afte being selected, for vairous reasons including family and moving to Bengaluru.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sl-warm-up-why-didn-t-kuldeep-yadav-bowl-in-2nd-innings-india-coach-explains-1786294800829">IND vs SL, warm-up: Why didn’t Kuldeep Yadav bowl in 2nd innings?</a>"After Nitin left, we did not get anyone who can fill in that position. We had Andrew Leipus, everything was agreed upon, in fact, Devajit had two or three meetings with him but suddenly Andrew backed off at the last moment citing family reasons. We conducted a full-fledged interview process where we had Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala, Dr. Ashish Soni, Dr. Rohan Khavte and myself, we shortlisted five candidates and number one was an Australian. After selecting him, suddenly he backed out saying he cannot move to Bengaluru," Laxman said."Another professional (who we selected) was head of sports science at All Blacks (New Zealand rugby team). We engaged with him and he almost agreed but at the last moment he too backed off," he added.<h2>What does a Sports Science and Medicine head do?</h2>A SSM head is responsible for players' injury, workload, and recovery management. WION had recently spoken to strength and conditioning expert Jivesh Bali who had also highlighted <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/recovery-management-and-no-prehab-strength-and-conditioning-expert-shares-reason-behind-injuries-in-indian-cricket-1786085111228">'recovery' as the main reason for frequent injuries among players</a>."In India, the athletes are suffering from this work overload. The athletes nowadays are being over-trained by the coaches you can say or by the management or by the federation so the recovery is one thing that is the main issue in re-occurring those injuries which athletes are going through," Bali had said.

Laxman spoke at length about the CoE's role in players' injury management and recovery but shared that it is hard to do so without a SSM head. He cited potential candidates backing off at the last moment afte being selected, for vairous reasons including family and moving to Bengaluru.

Indian cricket team's inury crisis has brought serious attention towards the BCCI's Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru, headed by former batter VVS Laxman. Multiple players have been injured in the recent past with the latest being Sai Sudharsan, who has been withdrawn from upcoming Sri Lanka Test tour. Sai, along with Bumrah, was named in the Indian squad but both failed to recover in time, prompting their withdrawl. Laxman, meanwhile, has defended CoE's role and revealed that the centre is facing difficulties in hiring a new Sports Science and Medicine (SSM) head, leading to these issues. BCCI is one of the richest boards in the world then why it is hard for them to hire a SSM head? Why BCCI is unable to hire a SSM head for CoE? Laxman spoke at length about the CoE's role in players' injury management and recovery but shared that it is hard to do so without a Sports Science and Medicine (SSM) head. The former batter cited potential candidates backing off at the last moment afte being selected, for vairous reasons including family and moving to Bengaluru. Also Read - IND vs SL, warm-up: Why didn’t Kuldeep Yadav bowl in 2nd innings? "After Nitin left, we did not get anyone who can fill in that position. We had Andrew Leipus, everything was agreed upon, in fact, Devajit had two or three meetings with him but suddenly Andrew backed off at the last moment citing family reasons. We conducted a full-fledged interview process where we had Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala, Dr. Ashish Soni, Dr. Rohan Khavte and myself, we shortlisted five candidates and number one was an Australian. After selecting him, suddenly he backed out saying he cannot move to Bengaluru," Laxman said. "Another professional (who we selected) was head of sports science at All Blacks (New Zealand rugby team). We engaged with him and he almost agreed but at the last moment he too backed off," he added. What does a Sports Science and Medicine head do? A SSM head is responsible for players' injury, workload, and recovery management. WION had recently spoken to strength and conditioning expert Jivesh Bali who had also highlighted 'recovery' as the main reason for frequent injuries among players. "In India, the athletes are suffering from this work overload. The athletes nowadays are being over-trained by the coaches you can say or by the management or by the federation so the recovery is one thing that is the main issue in re-occurring those injuries which athletes are going through," Bali had said.

Laxman spoke at length about the CoE's role in players' injury management and recovery but shared that it is hard to do so without a SSM head. He cited potential candidates backing off at the last moment afte being selected, for vairous reasons including family and moving to Bengaluru.

CoE chief VVS Laxman explains why BCCI is unable to hire a Sports Science and Medicine head

India men’s spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule has dismissed concerns about Kuldeep Yadav’s fitness after the left-arm spinner did not bowl in the second innings of India’s three-day warm-up match against Sri Lanka on Sunday (Aug 9). Bahutule said Kuldeep’s decision to sit out was precautionary, with the spinner wanting to “take a break” ahead of the upcoming two-Test series.&nbsp;Kuldeep was among India’s best bowlers in the first innings, taking two wickets in 18 overs and his role in the team has been under discussion for some time, with questions over the management’s confidence in him across formats.&nbsp;&nbsp;He had also joined Yorkshire for the English One-Day Cup to get back into rhythm before the Sri Lanka tour.&nbsp;His absence from the second innings raised concerns, but Bahutule said there was no major fitness issue.&nbsp;“ Kuldeep bowled almost 20 overs in the sense 18 in the match and about two to three overs before the game also. He had a very good outing, and he just wanted to take a break in terms of just understanding how his body is at,” Bahutule said after the warm-up game here, as quoted by PTI.&nbsp;“The bowlers had a great opportunity to go down and express themselves on a pitch which was slightly on a flatter side on the first day. But as the days went by, there was more turn on to it and definitely a good outing for the spinners,” Bahutule added.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sl-sarfaraz-khan-returns-to-india-test-squad-replaces-injured-sai-sudharsan-1786288282542">IND vs SL: Sarfaraz Khan returns to India Test squad, replaces injured Sai Sudharsan</a>&nbsp;Although the pitch offered more help to spinners as the match went on, India used mostly pacers in their second bowling innings.&nbsp;&nbsp;Warm-up matches are generally not played exactly like Test matches, as they are mainly aimed at helping players adjust to the conditions and get enough match practice.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/those-who-play-will-flourish-pm-modi-interacts-with-india-s-cwg-medallists-1786286688262">‘Those who play, will flourish’: PM Modi interacts with India’s CWG medallists</a>&nbsp;Bahutule also praised India’s spin options, which included Ravindra Jadeja, Manav Suthar and Saransh Jain, highlighting the different skills each bowler brings to the attack.&nbsp;“All four spinners have that uniqueness. We have got experience with Jaddu. We have got great accuracy levels with Manav Suthar. And, obviously, Saransh has got experience. He has performed really well in domestic cricket. And that is how he has earned his spot,” he said.&nbsp;“And Kuldeep, being a wrist spinner, it always helps to have a wrist spinner in the side so that there is variety.”

Kuldeep Yadav was rested from bowling in the second innings of India’s warm-up against Sri Lanka Cricket XI due to a heavy workload, with spin coach Sairaj Bahutule confirming it was a precautionary decision and not injury-related.

India men’s spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule has dismissed concerns about Kuldeep Yadav’s fitness after the left-arm spinner did not bowl in the second innings of India’s three-day warm-up match against Sri Lanka on Sunday (Aug 9). Bahutule said Kuldeep’s decision to sit out was precautionary, with the spinner wanting to “take a break” ahead of the upcoming two-Test series. Kuldeep was among India’s best bowlers in the first innings, taking two wickets in 18 overs and his role in the team has been under discussion for some time, with questions over the management’s confidence in him across formats. He had also joined Yorkshire for the English One-Day Cup to get back into rhythm before the Sri Lanka tour. His absence from the second innings raised concerns, but Bahutule said there was no major fitness issue. “ Kuldeep bowled almost 20 overs in the sense 18 in the match and about two to three overs before the game also. He had a very good outing, and he just wanted to take a break in terms of just understanding how his body is at,” Bahutule said after the warm-up game here, as quoted by PTI. “The bowlers had a great opportunity to go down and express themselves on a pitch which was slightly on a flatter side on the first day. But as the days went by, there was more turn on to it and definitely a good outing for the spinners,” Bahutule added. Also Read - IND vs SL: Sarfaraz Khan returns to India Test squad, replaces injured Sai Sudharsan Although the pitch offered more help to spinners as the match went on, India used mostly pacers in their second bowling innings. Warm-up matches are generally not played exactly like Test matches, as they are mainly aimed at helping players adjust to the conditions and get enough match practice. Also Read - ‘Those who play, will flourish’: PM Modi interacts with India’s CWG medallists Bahutule also praised India’s spin options, which included Ravindra Jadeja, Manav Suthar and Saransh Jain, highlighting the different skills each bowler brings to the attack. “All four spinners have that uniqueness. We have got experience with Jaddu. We have got great accuracy levels with Manav Suthar. And, obviously, Saransh has got experience. He has performed really well in domestic cricket. And that is how he has earned his spot,” he said. “And Kuldeep, being a wrist spinner, it always helps to have a wrist spinner in the side so that there is variety.”

Kuldeep Yadav was rested from bowling in the second innings of India’s warm-up against Sri Lanka Cricket XI due to a heavy workload, with spin coach Sairaj Bahutule confirming it was a precautionary decision and not injury-related.

IND vs SL, warm-up: Why didn’t Kuldeep Yadav bowl in 2nd innings? India coach explains

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has picked Mumbai batter Sarfaraz Khan as the replacement for injured Sai Sudharsan for the two-Test series against Sri Lanka.Sudharsan, who suffered a stress fracture in his big toe during India A’s Sri Lanka tour in Jul, has been recovering at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru but has not regained full fitness in time for the series.&nbsp;“Sai Sudharsan has been ruled out of the Test series against Sri Lanka,” BCCI said in a statement. “The left-handed batter, who has been at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (COE) in Bengaluru, has made significant progress in his recovery from the right toe stress reaction and is recovering well. The BCCI Medical Team is closely monitoring his progress.”&nbsp;“The Men’s Selection Committee has named Sarfaraz Khan as a replacement for Sai Sudharsan for the two-match Test series against Sri Lanka. He will link up with the Indian squad in Colombo before the team travels to Galle for the first Test match, starting August 15, 2026,” it added.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/those-who-play-will-flourish-pm-modi-interacts-with-india-s-cwg-medallists-1786286688262">‘Those who play, will flourish’: PM Modi interacts with India’s CWG medallists</a>&nbsp;Sarfaraz last played for India during the three-Test series against New Zealand at home in 2024, which India lost 0-3. He was one of India’s top performers in the series and scored his maiden Test century in the second match.&nbsp;However, he did not get another opportunity after that and remained on the bench throughout India’s five-Test series in Australia from Dec 2024 to Jan 2025 and was later dropped from the squad.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-a-rehab-centre-vvs-laxman-defends-bcci-coe-amid-injury-concerns-1786274226587">‘Not a rehab centre’: VVS Laxman defends BCCI CoE amid injury concerns</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;In domestic cricket, the 28-year-old has been a consistent performer for several years. In 92 First-Class innings, Sarfaraz has scored 5,114 runs at an average of 64.73, including 17 centuries and 16 fifties.&nbsp;Sheikh Rasheed were also considered for the series, but Sarfaraz’s strong record against spin is likely to have worked in his favour with the selectors.

Sarfaraz Khan has returned to India’s Test squad for the first time since the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, replacing the injured Sai Sudharsan for the upcoming two-Test series against Sri Lanka.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has picked Mumbai batter Sarfaraz Khan as the replacement for injured Sai Sudharsan for the two-Test series against Sri Lanka. Sudharsan, who suffered a stress fracture in his big toe during India A’s Sri Lanka tour in Jul, has been recovering at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru but has not regained full fitness in time for the series. “Sai Sudharsan has been ruled out of the Test series against Sri Lanka,” BCCI said in a statement. “The left-handed batter, who has been at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (COE) in Bengaluru, has made significant progress in his recovery from the right toe stress reaction and is recovering well. The BCCI Medical Team is closely monitoring his progress.” “The Men’s Selection Committee has named Sarfaraz Khan as a replacement for Sai Sudharsan for the two-match Test series against Sri Lanka. He will link up with the Indian squad in Colombo before the team travels to Galle for the first Test match, starting August 15, 2026,” it added. Also Read - ‘Those who play, will flourish’: PM Modi interacts with India’s CWG medallists Sarfaraz last played for India during the three-Test series against New Zealand at home in 2024, which India lost 0-3. He was one of India’s top performers in the series and scored his maiden Test century in the second match. However, he did not get another opportunity after that and remained on the bench throughout India’s five-Test series in Australia from Dec 2024 to Jan 2025 and was later dropped from the squad. Also Read - ‘Not a rehab centre’: VVS Laxman defends BCCI CoE amid injury concerns In domestic cricket, the 28-year-old has been a consistent performer for several years. In 92 First-Class innings, Sarfaraz has scored 5,114 runs at an average of 64.73, including 17 centuries and 16 fifties. Sheikh Rasheed were also considered for the series, but Sarfaraz’s strong record against spin is likely to have worked in his favour with the selectors.

Sarfaraz Khan has returned to India’s Test squad for the first time since the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, replacing the injured Sai Sudharsan for the upcoming two-Test series against Sri Lanka.

IND vs SL: Sarfaraz Khan returns to India Test squad, replaces injured Sai Sudharsan

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