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Former England great Ian Botham has decided not to back down from his criticism of now-retired skipper Ben Stokes for his conduct on the Ashes tour Down Under. England lost the five-Test series 4-1 and was criticised by former cricketers for their mid-series drinking break in Noosa. Stokes, at the time, had called Botham and Michael Vaughan "has-beens", but Botham has stood by his words. The former all-rounder, however, did praise Stokes for being a "bloody good cricketer." Stokes announced his retirement during the home Test series against New Zealand in June 2026.<h2>Botham Not Budging From Calling Out Stokes</h2>“He’s a bloody good cricketer and he played well, but he let himself down in those final couple of months,” said Botham, as quoted by Sky Sports. The former all-rounder also called out England's performance during the Ashes tour, especially the break in Noosa.“For the team to go 2-0 down in Australia - one of them in two days - and for me to then see them at Noosa, one of the most popular places in Australia to holiday, having five days off on the lash, I just thought that was poor. Curfews, well, they were set and they were broken."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravi-shastri-shami-comeback-bhuvneshwar-bumrah-workload-new-zealand-tour-1792400167041">Shastri backs Shami comeback; warns Bumrah on format workload ahead of World Cup</a>On the starting point of the war of words, Botham said: “You have got a situation, starting from the beginning when he had a go at myself and Michael Vaughan in Melbourne because we said they had not prepared properly. They played two and a half days of cricket in the build-up to taking on Australia in Perth."<h2>What Happened After the Ashes?</h2>England's Test coach Brendon McCullum has been let go, with Stephen Fleming - the former NZ skipper, like McCullum - taking over the role. After Stokes decided to retire from Tests - the only format he played - Harry Brook was named the new England Test skipper. England is currently in Pakistan for an ODI tri-series involving Sri Lanka alongside the hosts.

Ian Botham stood by his critique of retired England captain Ben Stokes over mid-Ashes drinking in Noosa. Stokes retired in June; Harry Brook is now Test skipper under new coach Stephen Fleming.

Former England great Ian Botham has decided not to back down from his criticism of now-retired skipper Ben Stokes for his conduct on the Ashes tour Down Under. England lost the five-Test series 4-1 and was criticised by former cricketers for their mid-series drinking break in Noosa. Stokes, at the time, had called Botham and Michael Vaughan "has-beens", but Botham has stood by his words. The former all-rounder, however, did praise Stokes for being a "bloody good cricketer." Stokes announced his retirement during the home Test series against New Zealand in June 2026. Botham Not Budging From Calling Out Stokes “He’s a bloody good cricketer and he played well, but he let himself down in those final couple of months,” said Botham, as quoted by Sky Sports. The former all-rounder also called out England's performance during the Ashes tour, especially the break in Noosa. “For the team to go 2-0 down in Australia - one of them in two days - and for me to then see them at Noosa, one of the most popular places in Australia to holiday, having five days off on the lash, I just thought that was poor. Curfews, well, they were set and they were broken." Also Read - Shastri backs Shami comeback; warns Bumrah on format workload ahead of World Cup On the starting point of the war of words, Botham said: “You have got a situation, starting from the beginning when he had a go at myself and Michael Vaughan in Melbourne because we said they had not prepared properly. They played two and a half days of cricket in the build-up to taking on Australia in Perth." What Happened After the Ashes? England's Test coach Brendon McCullum has been let go, with Stephen Fleming - the former NZ skipper, like McCullum - taking over the role. After Stokes decided to retire from Tests - the only format he played - Harry Brook was named the new England Test skipper. England is currently in Pakistan for an ODI tri-series involving Sri Lanka alongside the hosts.

Ian Botham stood by his critique of retired England captain Ben Stokes over mid-Ashes drinking in Noosa. Stokes retired in June; Harry Brook is now Test skipper under new coach Stephen Fleming.

Ex-England great Botham calls Stokes 'bloody good cricketer' who 'let himself down in final months'

Scott Boland does not get many chances to bowl for Australia in Test matches, but he showed again on Monday that when he gets the call he is ready to step up. Boland took four for 31 to have South Africa tottering at 97 for five after two rain-hit days of the second Test at St George's Park.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/my-process-never-changes-west-indies-skipper-shai-hope-reveals-what-keeps-him-going-after-india-t20i-series-exploits-1792379419226">WI skipper Hope reveals what keeps him going after India T20I series exploits</a>"I like to play every game I can," the 37-year-old said, but admitted it was not always possible with Australia having three world-class fast bowlers ahead of him in skipper Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood.All four seamers are in the top ten of the world Test bowling rankings.But Boland got his opportunity in Gqeberha when Australia opted for an all-seam attack.Although he had not played in a first-class match since March and had not appeared in a Test match since January, Boland said he kept sharp by working hard before the tour and during net practices since the team arrived in South Africa."My mindset is to find my line and length quickly," he said.Boland did that to devastating effect when he took both wickets as South Africa slipped to 20 for two on a rain-ruined first day.Then he struck early on Monday -- after rain delayed the start of play by six hours -- and again shortly before the close.Boland's relentless accuracy left world Test champions South Africa in a precarious position as they sought to play their way back into the three-match series after losing the first Test in Durban by 214 runs."He doesn't miss his spot very often," said South African batting coach Ashwell Prince in comparing Boland to former South African opening bowler Vernon Philander."His balls are always on or around the top of the stumps so there's always that uncertainty (for batters)."But Prince said he expected the South African bowlers to be similarly threatening."The ball is moving around and the pitch is a bit soft so there are some divots around. I like to think we have a few bowlers that can present the same challenges," he explained.Only five runs were added to the overnight 20 for two before Boland struck in his second over of the day.Debutant Marques Ackerman was caught behind by wicketkeeper Alex Carey for six, with the left-hander edging a ball bowled from around the wicket which seamed away off the pitch.Matthew Breetzke, who together with Ackerman was brought into the side to strengthen the batting, made only four before he provided Carey with a third catch when he played a loose shot against Starc.South Africa seemed to be clawing their way back into the contest as Ryan Rickelton (31) added 52 for the fifth wicket with Bavuma but Rickelton fell to a sensational one-handed catch at first slip by Matt Renshaw when Boland was brought back into the attack shortly before the close.

Boland took four for 31 to have South Africa tottering at 97 for five after two rain-hit days of the second Test at St George's Park.

Scott Boland does not get many chances to bowl for Australia in Test matches, but he showed again on Monday that when he gets the call he is ready to step up. Boland took four for 31 to have South Africa tottering at 97 for five after two rain-hit days of the second Test at St George's Park. Also Read - WI skipper Hope reveals what keeps him going after India T20I series exploits "I like to play every game I can," the 37-year-old said, but admitted it was not always possible with Australia having three world-class fast bowlers ahead of him in skipper Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood. All four seamers are in the top ten of the world Test bowling rankings. But Boland got his opportunity in Gqeberha when Australia opted for an all-seam attack. Although he had not played in a first-class match since March and had not appeared in a Test match since January, Boland said he kept sharp by working hard before the tour and during net practices since the team arrived in South Africa. "My mindset is to find my line and length quickly," he said. Boland did that to devastating effect when he took both wickets as South Africa slipped to 20 for two on a rain-ruined first day. Then he struck early on Monday -- after rain delayed the start of play by six hours -- and again shortly before the close. Boland's relentless accuracy left world Test champions South Africa in a precarious position as they sought to play their way back into the three-match series after losing the first Test in Durban by 214 runs. "He doesn't miss his spot very often," said South African batting coach Ashwell Prince in comparing Boland to former South African opening bowler Vernon Philander. "His balls are always on or around the top of the stumps so there's always that uncertainty (for batters)." But Prince said he expected the South African bowlers to be similarly threatening. "The ball is moving around and the pitch is a bit soft so there are some divots around. I like to think we have a few bowlers that can present the same challenges," he explained. Only five runs were added to the overnight 20 for two before Boland struck in his second over of the day. Debutant Marques Ackerman was caught behind by wicketkeeper Alex Carey for six, with the left-hander edging a ball bowled from around the wicket which seamed away off the pitch. Matthew Breetzke, who together with Ackerman was brought into the side to strengthen the batting, made only four before he provided Carey with a third catch when he played a loose shot against Starc. South Africa seemed to be clawing their way back into the contest as Ryan Rickelton (31) added 52 for the fifth wicket with Bavuma but Rickelton fell to a sensational one-handed catch at first slip by Matt Renshaw when Boland was brought back into the attack shortly before the close.

Boland took four for 31 to have South Africa tottering at 97 for five after two rain-hit days of the second Test at St George's Park.

AUS vs SA: Boland grabs opportunity with both ends to help Australia dominate

The Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) has appointed former Indian spinner Ramesh Powar as a new member of the India men’s selection committee ahead of other contenders like Wasim Jaffer. The move will also see Pragyan Ojha, who has held the position of chief selector on an interim basis since Ajit Agarkar’s contract ended, take over as the head of the selection committee on seniority (most Tests).

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🚨 Announcement 🚨

Mr Ramesh Powar @imrameshpowar appointed to Men’s Selection Committee.

Based on seniority (most Tests), Mr Pragyan Ojha @pragyanojha will chair the Committee.

BCCI appreciates Mr Ajit Agarkar @imAagarkar for his commitment, conviction and contribution during his tenure as Chairman of the Committee.

Details ▶️ https://t.co/z0jcyPWkr0 

#TeamIndia&mdash; BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://x.com/BCCI/status/2112129980792729931?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 19, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

“The Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC), comprising Mr Ashok Malhotra and Mr Jatin Paranjape, conducted a selection process for the appointment of a member of the Men’s Selection Committee. The CAC met at the BCCI HQ to screen and interview applicants and, following the process, unanimously recommended the appointment of Mr Ramesh Powar,” an official BCCI release read.&nbsp; &nbsp;Powar represented India in 31 ODIs and two Tests, picking up 40 wickets. Since retiring from professional cricket in 2015, Powar has held major coaching roles with the Indian women’s cricket team and at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru, among others.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-is-chinmay-sutar-mizoram-batter-400-ranji-trophy-1792405770944">Who is Chinmay Sutar? Mizoram batter becomes only 2nd player to score 400 in Ranji Trophy</a> &nbsp;“Powar represented India in 2 Tests and 31 ODIs during his international playing career. He has since held major coaching roles, including Head Coach of the India Women’s team, Mumbai and Gujarat, as well as Bowling Coach at the BCCI Centre of Excellence. During his stint with the India Women’s team, he guided them to an Asia Cup title as well as a Commonwealth Games silver medal,” it continued. &nbsp;The BCCI has also appreciated Agarkar for the role, which he took over shortly before the 2023 ODI World Cup in India. The Agarkar-led selection committee made vital calls over the past three years, resulting in India’s immense white-ball success in ICC and ACC events. India won two T20 World Cups in 2024 and 2026, a 2025 ICC Champions Trophy and two back-to-back Asia Cup titles. &nbsp;“The BCCI places on record its appreciation for Mr Ajit Agarkar for his commitment, conviction and contribution during his tenure as Chairman of the Men’s Selection Committee. Since his appointment in July 2023, Agarkar led the committee through a significant period for Indian cricket, with India winning three ICC trophies, two Asia Cup titles and back-to-back Asian Games gold medals.” &nbsp;The BCCI also confirmed Pragyan Ojha as the new head of the selection committee. &nbsp;“Based on seniority (most Tests), Mr Pragyan Ojha will chair the Committee,” it read.<h3>Here is the list of BCCI selectors –</h3><ul><li>Pragyan Ojha (Chairman) - 24 Tests</li><li>Shiv Sundar Das - 23 Tests</li><li>RP Singh - 14 Tests</li><li>Ajay Ratra - 6 Tests</li><li>Ramesh Powar - 2 Tests</li></ul>

Former spinner Ramesh Powar joins the India men's selection committee, while Pragyan Ojha is officially appointed Chairman based on Test match seniority.

The Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) has appointed former Indian spinner Ramesh Powar as a new member of the India men’s selection committee ahead of other contenders like Wasim Jaffer. The move will also see Pragyan Ojha, who has held the position of chief selector on an interim basis since Ajit Agarkar’s contract ended, take over as the head of the selection committee on seniority (most Tests).

Former spinner Ramesh Powar joins the India men's selection committee, while Pragyan Ojha is officially appointed Chairman based on Test match seniority.

Ramesh Powar joins India men’s selection committee as Pragyan Ojha named chairman

Mizoram batter Chinmay Sutar has become only the second player in Ranji Trophy history to register a score of 400 against Nagaland at the Nagaland Cricket Stadium in Sovima on Monday (Oct 19). The right-hander remained unbeaten on 400, with Mizoram declaring on 581 for nine. Maharashtra’s BB Nimbalkar was the first player to achieve this feat in India’s premier domestic competition, when he scored 443* against Kathiawar in Pune in 1948.&nbsp; &nbsp;His feat also makes him the 10th batter overall to score 400 or more in First-Class cricket, joining the likes of cricket greats including Sir Donald George Bradman, Brian Lara and Hanif Mohammad.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravi-shastri-shami-comeback-bhuvneshwar-bumrah-workload-new-zealand-tour-1792400167041">Shastri backs Shami comeback; lauds Bhuvi and warns Bumrah on format workload ahead of World Cup</a> &nbsp;On his Ranji debut against Manipur, Chinmay scored 35 and 99 in two innings before smashing his career-best score of 400 not out against Nagaland. Before his move to Mizoram, Sutar plied his trade for Mumbai in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, following impressive returns in the local leagues. In five List-A matches, Sutar scored 134 runs, with a highest of unbeaten 104.<h2>Sutar Makes History</h2>Sutar stitched a record unbeaten 190-run stand for the 10th wicket with Lalrempunia Chhakchhuak, which is also the third-highest for the last wicket in the tournament history. The record for the highest 10th-wicket partnership is 233 runs, held by Ajay Sharma (259) and Maninder Singh (78) for Delhi against Mumbai during the 1991-92 season.<h3>Most Runs Scored in a First-Class Match –</h3><ul><li>Brian Lara – 501* (Warwickshire) vs Durham&nbsp;</li><li>Hanif Mohammad – 499 (Karachi) vs Bahawalpur</li><li>Sir Donald Bradman – 452* (NSW) vs Queensland</li><li>BB Nimbalkar – 443* (Maharashtra) vs Kathiawar</li><li>WH Ponsford – 437 (Victoria) vs Queensland</li><li>WH Ponsford – 429 (Victoria) vs Tasmania&nbsp;</li><li>Aftab Baloch – 428 (Sind) vs Baluchistan&nbsp;</li><li>AC MacLaren – 424 (Lancashire) vs Somerset&nbsp;</li><li>SA Northeast – 410* (Glamorgan) vs Leicester</li><li>Graham Hick - 405* (Worcester) vs Somerset&nbsp;</li><li>Brian Lara – 400* (West Indies) vs England</li><li>Chinmay Sutar – 400* (Mizoram) vs Nagaland</li></ul>

Who is Chinmay Sutar? Mizoram batter Chinmay Sutar scored an unbeaten 400 against Nagaland, becoming only the second player in Ranji Trophy history to hit a quadruple century.

Mizoram batter Chinmay Sutar has become only the second player in Ranji Trophy history to register a score of 400 against Nagaland at the Nagaland Cricket Stadium in Sovima on Monday (Oct 19). The right-hander remained unbeaten on 400, with Mizoram declaring on 581 for nine. Maharashtra’s BB Nimbalkar was the first player to achieve this feat in India’s premier domestic competition, when he scored 443* against Kathiawar in Pune in 1948. His feat also makes him the 10th batter overall to score 400 or more in First-Class cricket, joining the likes of cricket greats including Sir Donald George Bradman, Brian Lara and Hanif Mohammad. Also read| Shastri backs Shami comeback; lauds Bhuvi and warns Bumrah on format workload ahead of World Cup On his Ranji debut against Manipur, Chinmay scored 35 and 99 in two innings before smashing his career-best score of 400 not out against Nagaland. Before his move to Mizoram, Sutar plied his trade for Mumbai in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, following impressive returns in the local leagues. In five List-A matches, Sutar scored 134 runs, with a highest of unbeaten 104. Sutar Makes History Sutar stitched a record unbeaten 190-run stand for the 10th wicket with Lalrempunia Chhakchhuak, which is also the third-highest for the last wicket in the tournament history. The record for the highest 10th-wicket partnership is 233 runs, held by Ajay Sharma (259) and Maninder Singh (78) for Delhi against Mumbai during the 1991-92 season. Most Runs Scored in a First-Class Match – Brian Lara – 501* (Warwickshire) vs Durham Hanif Mohammad – 499 (Karachi) vs Bahawalpur Sir Donald Bradman – 452* (NSW) vs Queensland BB Nimbalkar – 443* (Maharashtra) vs Kathiawar WH Ponsford – 437 (Victoria) vs Queensland WH Ponsford – 429 (Victoria) vs Tasmania Aftab Baloch – 428 (Sind) vs Baluchistan AC MacLaren – 424 (Lancashire) vs Somerset SA Northeast – 410* (Glamorgan) vs Leicester Graham Hick - 405* (Worcester) vs Somerset Brian Lara – 400* (West Indies) vs England Chinmay Sutar – 400* (Mizoram) vs Nagaland

Who is Chinmay Sutar? Mizoram batter Chinmay Sutar scored an unbeaten 400 against Nagaland, becoming only the second player in Ranji Trophy history to hit a quadruple century.

Who is Chinmay Sutar? Mizoram batter becomes only 2nd player to score 400 in Ranji Trophy

The game of cricket has strong roots in India, with many star players of today starting their journey by playing in their neighborhoods. The Indian Softball Cricket League (ISCL) is one such tournament that is now giving these young grassroots cricketers a platform to showcase their talent and build the character required to play the game at a higher level. Former India batter Suresh Raina, who was part of India's 2011 ODI World Cup-winning team, also believes that tournaments like the ISCL will "bring more people into the sport."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravi-shastri-shami-comeback-bhuvneshwar-bumrah-workload-new-zealand-tour-1792400167041">Shastri backs Shami comeback; lauds Bhuvi and warns Bumrah on format workload ahead of World Cup</a>"I believe tournaments like the Indian Softball Cricket League play a very important role in developing budding cricketers. Every player needs a platform where they can showcase their talent, gain match experience, and learn how to handle pressure," said Raina to WION at the jersey launch of ISCL Season 2 in New Delhi on October 11. The tournament will run from November 25 to December 30 in Bengaluru."For young players, these opportunities are especially valuable because they help build confidence, discipline, and a better understanding of the game. Not everyone gets the chance to play at a professional level early in their journey, so leagues like the ISCL can help bridge that gap by encouraging participation and giving emerging talent greater exposure. Beyond performance, players also learn the importance of teamwork, sportsmanship, and consistency. If we continue to create more such platforms at the grassroots level, we can help nurture the next generation of cricketers and bring more people into the sport," added Raina. &nbsp; Speaking about how the ISCL helps the growth of grassroots cricket in India, the organizers added: "Many players begin their journey in neighborhood streets, local grounds, and small community tournaments, where they develop their skills, passion, and understanding of the game. Through the ISCL, our aim is to give that passion a bigger platform and create opportunities for players who may not otherwise get the exposure they deserve."

Suresh Raina backed the Indian Softball Cricket League (ISCL) Season 2, highlighting its role in nurturing grassroots talent, building player confidence, and expanding cricket's reach in India.

The game of cricket has strong roots in India, with many star players of today starting their journey by playing in their neighborhoods. The Indian Softball Cricket League (ISCL) is one such tournament that is now giving these young grassroots cricketers a platform to showcase their talent and build the character required to play the game at a higher level. Former India batter Suresh Raina, who was part of India's 2011 ODI World Cup-winning team, also believes that tournaments like the ISCL will "bring more people into the sport." Also Read - Shastri backs Shami comeback; lauds Bhuvi and warns Bumrah on format workload ahead of World Cup "I believe tournaments like the Indian Softball Cricket League play a very important role in developing budding cricketers. Every player needs a platform where they can showcase their talent, gain match experience, and learn how to handle pressure," said Raina to WION at the jersey launch of ISCL Season 2 in New Delhi on October 11. The tournament will run from November 25 to December 30 in Bengaluru. "For young players, these opportunities are especially valuable because they help build confidence, discipline, and a better understanding of the game. Not everyone gets the chance to play at a professional level early in their journey, so leagues like the ISCL can help bridge that gap by encouraging participation and giving emerging talent greater exposure. Beyond performance, players also learn the importance of teamwork, sportsmanship, and consistency. If we continue to create more such platforms at the grassroots level, we can help nurture the next generation of cricketers and bring more people into the sport," added Raina. Speaking about how the ISCL helps the growth of grassroots cricket in India, the organizers added: "Many players begin their journey in neighborhood streets, local grounds, and small community tournaments, where they develop their skills, passion, and understanding of the game. Through the ISCL, our aim is to give that passion a bigger platform and create opportunities for players who may not otherwise get the exposure they deserve."

Suresh Raina backed the Indian Softball Cricket League (ISCL) Season 2, highlighting its role in nurturing grassroots talent, building player confidence, and expanding cricket's reach in India.

'Grassroots leagues help bridge the gap': India's ODI WC winner Suresh Raina lauds ISCL ahead of Season 2

Former India coach Ravi Shastri shared his thoughts on three seasoned quicks, Mohammed Shami, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jasprit Bumrah. While Bhuvneshwar's well-earned call-up to the T20I side for the five-match series against New Zealand caught Shastri’s attention, the 1983 World Cup winner backed Shami for an Indian comeback. Shastri also urged Bumrah to manage format workload ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup. &nbsp;Bhuvneshwar, 36, returned to the playing XI for the series-decider against the West Indies in the rain-hit 5th T20I for the first time in nearly four years. He will lead the pace attack in New Zealand, with Arshdeep Singh, Prince Yadav and Mayank Yadav named among the pacers. &nbsp;Elsewhere, Shami, the hero of the 2023 ODI World Cup, where he picked 23 wickets in seven matches, remains sidelined despite Bumrah’s absence from the white-ball squads. A consistent performer in domestic cricket, Shami has not featured for India since helping the Men in Blue win the ICC Champions Trophy in February 2025.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pujara-says-samson-and-vaibhav-cannot-be-in-playing-xi-for-india-on-nz-tour-1792385221695">Pujara says 'Samson and Vaibhav cannot be in Playing XI' for India on NZ tour</a> &nbsp;Speaking on the two Indian pacers, who, under Shastri, peaked across formats, the former coach in a chat with Times of India (TOI) said, “There is no substitute for experience. When you have a bowler of Bhuvneshwar’s quality and experience, it’s a no-brainer. With the form he showed in the IPL and his years with India, he’ll be ideal for New Zealand conditions.” &nbsp;On Shami, Shastri said, “He’s done enough with both red and white balls to be recalled to the Test and ODI sides.”<h2>Bumrah Must Manage Formats</h2>Rested for the 10 white-ball matches, Shastri urged Bumrah and the management to work on his format workload ahead of the showpiece event in Africa next year. Shastri said Bumrah should prioritise Test cricket and feature sporadically in the shorter formats instead. &nbsp;“I don’t think he should play all three formats until the World Cup. He should focus primarily on Test cricket and feature sporadically in ODIs and T20Is. I’d rather preserve him for the two Tests in New Zealand, where he’ll be crucial,” he said. &nbsp;Speaking of the importance of this New Zealand tour, Shastri said, “The entire tour is important. It will give a clear indication of where Indian cricket is heading. Conditions there could also mirror some of what India might face in South Africa during the World Cup.” &nbsp;Meanwhile, India’s tour will get underway with five T20Is starting October 22. The three four-day India ‘A’ matches will begin two days later on October 24, with the ODI and Test squads likely to arrive in New Zealand at the end of this month. The five-match ODI series will start on November 4, while the WTC-bound two Tests will start on November 19.&nbsp;

Ravi Shastri backs Mohammed Shami for an India comeback, praises Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s recall, and advises Jasprit Bumrah to manage his workload ahead of the 2027 World Cup.

Former India coach Ravi Shastri shared his thoughts on three seasoned quicks, Mohammed Shami, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jasprit Bumrah. While Bhuvneshwar's well-earned call-up to the T20I side for the five-match series against New Zealand caught Shastri’s attention, the 1983 World Cup winner backed Shami for an Indian comeback. Shastri also urged Bumrah to manage format workload ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup. Bhuvneshwar, 36, returned to the playing XI for the series-decider against the West Indies in the rain-hit 5th T20I for the first time in nearly four years. He will lead the pace attack in New Zealand, with Arshdeep Singh, Prince Yadav and Mayank Yadav named among the pacers. Elsewhere, Shami, the hero of the 2023 ODI World Cup, where he picked 23 wickets in seven matches, remains sidelined despite Bumrah’s absence from the white-ball squads. A consistent performer in domestic cricket, Shami has not featured for India since helping the Men in Blue win the ICC Champions Trophy in February 2025. Also read| Pujara says 'Samson and Vaibhav cannot be in Playing XI' for India on NZ tour Speaking on the two Indian pacers, who, under Shastri, peaked across formats, the former coach in a chat with Times of India (TOI) said, “There is no substitute for experience. When you have a bowler of Bhuvneshwar’s quality and experience, it’s a no-brainer. With the form he showed in the IPL and his years with India, he’ll be ideal for New Zealand conditions.” On Shami, Shastri said, “He’s done enough with both red and white balls to be recalled to the Test and ODI sides.” Bumrah Must Manage Formats Rested for the 10 white-ball matches, Shastri urged Bumrah and the management to work on his format workload ahead of the showpiece event in Africa next year. Shastri said Bumrah should prioritise Test cricket and feature sporadically in the shorter formats instead. “I don’t think he should play all three formats until the World Cup. He should focus primarily on Test cricket and feature sporadically in ODIs and T20Is. I’d rather preserve him for the two Tests in New Zealand, where he’ll be crucial,” he said. Speaking of the importance of this New Zealand tour, Shastri said, “The entire tour is important. It will give a clear indication of where Indian cricket is heading. Conditions there could also mirror some of what India might face in South Africa during the World Cup.” Meanwhile, India’s tour will get underway with five T20Is starting October 22. The three four-day India ‘A’ matches will begin two days later on October 24, with the ODI and Test squads likely to arrive in New Zealand at the end of this month. The five-match ODI series will start on November 4, while the WTC-bound two Tests will start on November 19.

Ravi Shastri backs Mohammed Shami for an India comeback, praises Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s recall, and advises Jasprit Bumrah to manage his workload ahead of the 2027 World Cup.

Shastri backs Shami comeback; lauds Bhuvi and warns Bumrah on format workload ahead of World Cup

Salman Ali Agha was the latest victim of Pakistan's captaincy roulette and answered his sacking as T20I skipper by scoring a match-winning hundred in the ODI tri-series opener against Sri Lanka on Sunday (October 18) in Rawalpindi. Agha scored 107 off 90 balls after coming in to bat at number five as Pakistan posted 305 in 49.5 overs. His celebration after scoring the hundred, where he put a finger near his right eye, went viral as well. Agha was also one of the seven players who were dropped from the Test squad mid-tour in England, further fueling debate about whether his celebration was directed at someone in particular.<h2>Agha reveals what inspired his century celebration against Sri Lanka</h2>The 32-year-old made his ODI debut for Pakistan in 2022, and the ton against Sri Lanka was the fourth of his career. At the post-match presentation, he was asked about the century celebration and said: "My son watches a lot of TV, so that was for him."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pujara-says-samson-and-vaibhav-cannot-be-in-playing-xi-for-india-on-nz-tour-1792385221695">Pujara says 'Samson and Vaibhav cannot be in Playing XI' for India on NZ tour</a>Upon being pressed on whether the celebration was a message in light of recent events (including being sacked as T20I captain), Agha said: "I don’t have the time to prove someone wrong or send messages. I love my cricket, I love batting and I love playing for Pakistan. That’s what I do. That celebration was just for my son. Otherwise, I have nothing to do with anything."<h2>Agha's career at a glance</h2>Agha made his debut for Pakistan in 2022, first in Tests and then in ODIs a month later. He has since played 28 Tests and scored 1,708 runs at an average of 36 with three tons. In ODIs, he has featured in 54 matches and scored 1,673 runs at an average of 44 with four tons and nine fifties. In T20Is, he has represented Pakistan in 52 matches, scoring 916 runs at a strike rate of 123 with six fifties and a best score of 76.

Sacked as T20I skipper, Salman Ali Agha hit a match-winning 107 against Sri Lanka in the ODI tri-series opener, clarifying his viral eye celebration was dedicated solely to his son.

Salman Ali Agha was the latest victim of Pakistan's captaincy roulette and answered his sacking as T20I skipper by scoring a match-winning hundred in the ODI tri-series opener against Sri Lanka on Sunday (October 18) in Rawalpindi. Agha scored 107 off 90 balls after coming in to bat at number five as Pakistan posted 305 in 49.5 overs. His celebration after scoring the hundred, where he put a finger near his right eye, went viral as well. Agha was also one of the seven players who were dropped from the Test squad mid-tour in England, further fueling debate about whether his celebration was directed at someone in particular. Agha reveals what inspired his century celebration against Sri Lanka The 32-year-old made his ODI debut for Pakistan in 2022, and the ton against Sri Lanka was the fourth of his career. At the post-match presentation, he was asked about the century celebration and said: "My son watches a lot of TV, so that was for him." Also Read - Pujara says 'Samson and Vaibhav cannot be in Playing XI' for India on NZ tour Upon being pressed on whether the celebration was a message in light of recent events (including being sacked as T20I captain), Agha said: "I don’t have the time to prove someone wrong or send messages. I love my cricket, I love batting and I love playing for Pakistan. That’s what I do. That celebration was just for my son. Otherwise, I have nothing to do with anything." Agha's career at a glance Agha made his debut for Pakistan in 2022, first in Tests and then in ODIs a month later. He has since played 28 Tests and scored 1,708 runs at an average of 36 with three tons. In ODIs, he has featured in 54 matches and scored 1,673 runs at an average of 44 with four tons and nine fifties. In T20Is, he has represented Pakistan in 52 matches, scoring 916 runs at a strike rate of 123 with six fifties and a best score of 76.

Sacked as T20I skipper, Salman Ali Agha hit a match-winning 107 against Sri Lanka in the ODI tri-series opener, clarifying his viral eye celebration was dedicated solely to his son.

'That’s what I do': Pak batter Salman Agha reveals story behind viral celebration after ton vs SL in ODI tri-series opener

The arrival of Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and his form since winning the orange cap in IPL 2026 for most runs scored (776 runs) has put Sanju Samson's place as an India opener under constant pressure. Samson, who was the architect of India's T20 World Cup 2026 defense earlier this year, has been scoring runs in patches, but even one failure starts the debate about his place in the team. India next travel to New Zealand for a full-fledged tour, and Cheteshwar Pujara, a former India batter, thinks that only one batter between Samson and Sooryavanshi can be part of the playing XI in New Zealand.<h2>Pujara chimes in on Samson vs. Sooryavanshi debate for the NZ tour</h2>"Vaibhav playing every game seems a bit difficult in New Zealand because there you need more all-rounders, either a spin all-rounder or a seaming all-rounder. So, there you don’t need a lot of batters, especially in the top order," said Pujara while talking to JioStar.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/my-process-never-changes-west-indies-skipper-shai-hope-reveals-what-keeps-him-going-after-india-t20i-series-exploits-1792379419226">'My process never changes': West Indies skipper Shai Hope reveals what keeps him going after India T20I series exploits</a>"Either Sanju Samson can open or Vaibhav. I don’t think both can be part of the playing XI in New Zealand conditions. So, Vaibhav will have to wait, but he will get opportunities. If the spot opens up for him based on conditions or players’ fitness, that’s fine. But both Sanju and Vaibhav cannot be in the playing XI in New Zealand," he added.<h2>Samson in T20Is since the World Cup 2026</h2>Since the T20 World Cup 2026 final, where he scored 89, Samson has played 15 T20Is, scoring 336 runs with four fifties and a highest score of 82. Overall, Sanju has played 77 matches since his debut in 2015 and scored 1,735 runs at a strike rate of 160 with three centuries and 10 fifties.Sooryavanshi, on the other hand, made his T20I debut in July 2026 earlier this year after a bumper IPL 2026 and has played eight matches so far. In the eight matches played, Sooryavanshi has scored 246 runs at an average of 30 and a strike rate of 186 with two fifties and a highest score of 81.

Cheteshwar Pujara believes India cannot play both Sanju Samson and IPL Orange Cap winner Vaibhav Sooryavanshi in New Zealand due to team balance needs, sparking an opening debate.

The arrival of Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and his form since winning the orange cap in IPL 2026 for most runs scored (776 runs) has put Sanju Samson's place as an India opener under constant pressure. Samson, who was the architect of India's T20 World Cup 2026 defense earlier this year, has been scoring runs in patches, but even one failure starts the debate about his place in the team. India next travel to New Zealand for a full-fledged tour, and Cheteshwar Pujara, a former India batter, thinks that only one batter between Samson and Sooryavanshi can be part of the playing XI in New Zealand. Pujara chimes in on Samson vs. Sooryavanshi debate for the NZ tour "Vaibhav playing every game seems a bit difficult in New Zealand because there you need more all-rounders, either a spin all-rounder or a seaming all-rounder. So, there you don’t need a lot of batters, especially in the top order," said Pujara while talking to JioStar. Also Read - 'My process never changes': West Indies skipper Shai Hope reveals what keeps him going after India T20I series exploits "Either Sanju Samson can open or Vaibhav. I don’t think both can be part of the playing XI in New Zealand conditions. So, Vaibhav will have to wait, but he will get opportunities. If the spot opens up for him based on conditions or players’ fitness, that’s fine. But both Sanju and Vaibhav cannot be in the playing XI in New Zealand," he added. Samson in T20Is since the World Cup 2026 Since the T20 World Cup 2026 final, where he scored 89, Samson has played 15 T20Is, scoring 336 runs with four fifties and a highest score of 82. Overall, Sanju has played 77 matches since his debut in 2015 and scored 1,735 runs at a strike rate of 160 with three centuries and 10 fifties. Sooryavanshi, on the other hand, made his T20I debut in July 2026 earlier this year after a bumper IPL 2026 and has played eight matches so far. In the eight matches played, Sooryavanshi has scored 246 runs at an average of 30 and a strike rate of 186 with two fifties and a highest score of 81.

Cheteshwar Pujara believes India cannot play both Sanju Samson and IPL Orange Cap winner Vaibhav Sooryavanshi in New Zealand due to team balance needs, sparking an opening debate.

Pujara says 'Samson and Vaibhav cannot be in Playing XI' for India on NZ tour

The India vs West Indies T20I series ended in a 2-2 draw after the final match was washed away in Bengaluru on Saturday (Oct 17). India, the two-time back-to-back T20 World Cup champions in 2024 and 2026, were expected to win the series, but Shai Hope denied them. The West Indies skipper hit 261 runs in four innings including two centuries - in the 2nd and 4th T20Is - and was rightfully named Player of the Series. Hope had also scored a century (162 not out) in the third ODI before the T20Is started to help West Indies get their only win in the three-match series by helping them chase 352.<h2>What keeps Hope going ?</h2>Speaking to the broadcaster after the final match was washed away, Hope spoke at length about his process and what keeps him going, saying "You still have to have that self-belief.""Honestly, whenever I cross the line, even if I haven't got any runs in the last two, three, four, five innings, I still believe that I can get the job done," he said. "I think that's what kind of keeps me going, keeps me grounded as well, knowing that even if I do score a hundred or I get a big score, in the next game I still have to start from scratch."So my process never changes. I try to stay as neutral as I possibly can. I just back my ability to get the job done because I prepare, I think, well enough. So just allow that to happen and hopefully when the execution comes, it goes in my favour."<h2>How did Hope deny India a series win?</h2>In the first T20I, West Indies managed 171 with Hope scoring 52 off 37, but India chased it down with eight wickets in hand, thanks to skipper Shreyas Iyer's 102 not out. In the second T20I, West Indies chased down the 250-run target with Hope scoring 102 not out off 45 balls.India bounced back in the third T20I as the bowlers defended 223 and restricted West Indies to 209/7. In the fourth T20I, West Indies posted 247 with Hope scoring 102 not out off 50 balls. India, in reply, could manage only 223 and lost by 24 runs. The fifth T20I ended in no result after being called off due to rain after 7.4 overs in the first innings.

Shai Hope's two T20I centuries and 261 total runs powered West Indies to a 2–2 series draw against India, earning him Player of the Series. The rain-affected decider in Bengaluru ended in no result.

The India vs West Indies T20I series ended in a 2-2 draw after the final match was washed away in Bengaluru on Saturday (Oct 17). India, the two-time back-to-back T20 World Cup champions in 2024 and 2026, were expected to win the series, but Shai Hope denied them. The West Indies skipper hit 261 runs in four innings including two centuries - in the 2nd and 4th T20Is - and was rightfully named Player of the Series. Hope had also scored a century (162 not out) in the third ODI before the T20Is started to help West Indies get their only win in the three-match series by helping them chase 352. What keeps Hope going ? Speaking to the broadcaster after the final match was washed away, Hope spoke at length about his process and what keeps him going, saying "You still have to have that self-belief." "Honestly, whenever I cross the line, even if I haven't got any runs in the last two, three, four, five innings, I still believe that I can get the job done," he said. "I think that's what kind of keeps me going, keeps me grounded as well, knowing that even if I do score a hundred or I get a big score, in the next game I still have to start from scratch. "So my process never changes. I try to stay as neutral as I possibly can. I just back my ability to get the job done because I prepare, I think, well enough. So just allow that to happen and hopefully when the execution comes, it goes in my favour." How did Hope deny India a series win? In the first T20I, West Indies managed 171 with Hope scoring 52 off 37, but India chased it down with eight wickets in hand, thanks to skipper Shreyas Iyer's 102 not out. In the second T20I, West Indies chased down the 250-run target with Hope scoring 102 not out off 45 balls. India bounced back in the third T20I as the bowlers defended 223 and restricted West Indies to 209/7. In the fourth T20I, West Indies posted 247 with Hope scoring 102 not out off 50 balls. India, in reply, could manage only 223 and lost by 24 runs. The fifth T20I ended in no result after being called off due to rain after 7.4 overs in the first innings.

Shai Hope's two T20I centuries and 261 total runs powered West Indies to a 2–2 series draw against India, earning him Player of the Series. The rain-affected decider in Bengaluru ended in no result.

'My process never changes': West Indies skipper Shai Hope reveals what keeps him going after India T20I series exploits

Salman Agha marked his return to international cricket with a century as Pakistan beat Sri Lanka by 37 runs in the one-day tri-series opener in Rawalpindi on Sunday (Oct 18). The 32-year-old scored a 90-ball 107 with a six and 10 fours to anchor Pakistan's 305 in 49.5 overs, before skipper Shaheen Shah Afridi grabbed 3-55 to keep Sri Lanka down to 268 in 48.1 overs. The hosts now play England in the second match on Tuesday -- also in Rawalpindi -- in the series seen as a build-up for next year's 50-over World Cup in southern Africa.&nbsp;Pavan Rathnayake (79) and Janith Liyanage's 60 kept the visitors in the chase during a fighting 119-run fifth wicket stand. Opener Kamindu Mendis also contributed with a fluent 44. Rathnayake cracked two sixes and six boundaries while Liyanage's knock had five boundaries, but once both fell only Dasun Shanaka (28) really troubled the scorers as Sri Lanka lost their last five wickets for just 15 runs.&nbsp;Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf and Faheem Ashraf chipped in with two wickets apiece for Pakistan.&nbsp;Earlier, Agha, coming out of a miserable last three months, propelled Pakistan to victory.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/salman-agha-responds-t20i-axe-century-sri-lanka-odi-tri-series-1792330139321">Pakistan's Salman Agha responds to T20I axe with 107 vs Sri Lanka in ODI tri-series opener</a>&nbsp;He was sent home ahead of the third Test in England in August after captaining the team in the first match.&nbsp;"These times come on you and I thought that I will go back in domestic cricket and make things right with my performances," said Agha, who was also sacked as Pakistan's T20I captain. "I was looking to hit the ball in the pockets to rotate the strike so that we can take our team beyond 300 so we batted aggressively in the end."&nbsp;Agha hit two consecutive boundaries off pacer Asitha Fernando to complete his fourth one-day international hundred, finally falling to the same bowler in the 47th over. He added 97 runs for the fifth wicket with Hasan Nawaz (37) and another 64 for the sixth with Arafat Minhas, who made 18.&nbsp;Left-arm pacer Dilshan Madushanka had jolted Pakistan with the wickets of openers Saim Ayub (seven) and Fakhar Zaman (16).&nbsp;Debutant Saad Baig scored a brisk 40-ball 39 with two sixes and three fours. Along with Babar Azam (45), the pair lifted the score during their 74-run stand.&nbsp;Fast bowler Eshan Malinga dismissed both in successive overs to halt Pakistan's progress before Agha came into his own. Malinga was the pick of the Sri Lanka bowlers with a career-best 4-46, while Fernando took 3-59.

Salman Agha’s brilliant 107 and a late bowling blitz led Pakistan to a 37-run victory over Sri Lanka in the ODI tri-series opener in Rawalpindi.

Salman Agha marked his return to international cricket with a century as Pakistan beat Sri Lanka by 37 runs in the one-day tri-series opener in Rawalpindi on Sunday (Oct 18). The 32-year-old scored a 90-ball 107 with a six and 10 fours to anchor Pakistan's 305 in 49.5 overs, before skipper Shaheen Shah Afridi grabbed 3-55 to keep Sri Lanka down to 268 in 48.1 overs. The hosts now play England in the second match on Tuesday -- also in Rawalpindi -- in the series seen as a build-up for next year's 50-over World Cup in southern Africa. Pavan Rathnayake (79) and Janith Liyanage's 60 kept the visitors in the chase during a fighting 119-run fifth wicket stand. Opener Kamindu Mendis also contributed with a fluent 44. Rathnayake cracked two sixes and six boundaries while Liyanage's knock had five boundaries, but once both fell only Dasun Shanaka (28) really troubled the scorers as Sri Lanka lost their last five wickets for just 15 runs. Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf and Faheem Ashraf chipped in with two wickets apiece for Pakistan. Earlier, Agha, coming out of a miserable last three months, propelled Pakistan to victory. Also read| Pakistan's Salman Agha responds to T20I axe with 107 vs Sri Lanka in ODI tri-series opener He was sent home ahead of the third Test in England in August after captaining the team in the first match. "These times come on you and I thought that I will go back in domestic cricket and make things right with my performances," said Agha, who was also sacked as Pakistan's T20I captain. "I was looking to hit the ball in the pockets to rotate the strike so that we can take our team beyond 300 so we batted aggressively in the end." Agha hit two consecutive boundaries off pacer Asitha Fernando to complete his fourth one-day international hundred, finally falling to the same bowler in the 47th over. He added 97 runs for the fifth wicket with Hasan Nawaz (37) and another 64 for the sixth with Arafat Minhas, who made 18. Left-arm pacer Dilshan Madushanka had jolted Pakistan with the wickets of openers Saim Ayub (seven) and Fakhar Zaman (16). Debutant Saad Baig scored a brisk 40-ball 39 with two sixes and three fours. Along with Babar Azam (45), the pair lifted the score during their 74-run stand. Fast bowler Eshan Malinga dismissed both in successive overs to halt Pakistan's progress before Agha came into his own. Malinga was the pick of the Sri Lanka bowlers with a career-best 4-46, while Fernando took 3-59.

Salman Agha’s brilliant 107 and a late bowling blitz led Pakistan to a 37-run victory over Sri Lanka in the ODI tri-series opener in Rawalpindi.

PAK vs SL 2026: Salman Agha and pacers power Pakistan to 37-run win in tri-series opener

Salman Ali Agha responded to his T20I axe as captain and player with a brilliant 107 off just 90 balls against Sri Lanka in the ODI tri-series opener in Rawalpindi on Sunday (Oct 18). The PCB and the selectors replaced Agha with Sahibzada Farhan as the new T20I captain and dropped him from the squad for the concluded three-match series against Sri Lanka. His departure from the T20I setup came shortly after the board sent him home along with six other players midway through the away England tour. &nbsp;Embarrassed and hurt over his exclusion from the two formats, Agha channelled his energy into responding to his critics with a befitting reply in the first ODI. The right-hander smashed his fourth ODI hundred -- all scored batting five or below -- with this being his quickest in the One-Day format. His heroics with the bat, which included 10 fours and a six, powered Pakistan to 305 in the first innings.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pcb-omits-atherton-hussain-tri-series-commentary-imran-khan-row-1792322325970">PCB omits Atherton, Hussain from tri-series commentary panel over Imran Khan interview row</a> &nbsp;Walking out to bat in the 20th over, Agha held one end and stitched a 97-run partnership with Hasan Nawaz for the fifth wicket, lifting Pakistan from 118 for four at one stage. The two calculated the innings’ pace and played accordingly, frustrating the Sri Lankan bowlers. Following Nawaz’s dismissal on 37, Agha and Arafat Minhas added crucial 64 runs for the sixth wicket. &nbsp;He completed his fastest ODI hundred in 82 balls before eventually falling to Asitha Fernando in the 47th over. &nbsp;Earlier, Sri Lankan captain Kusal Mendis won the toss and elected to field first. The visitors reduced Pakistan to 32 for two inside the first six overs before talismanic batter Babar Azam and newbie keeper-batter Saad Baig bailed the team out of trouble by stitching a 74-run stand for the third wicket. &nbsp;For the Islanders, seamer Eshan Malinga picked up four wickets for 46 runs, while Fernando and Dilshan Madushanka returned with three and two wickets each.&nbsp; &nbsp;In reply, Sri Lanka lost one wicket for 42 runs in 10 overs, with captain Mendis and opener Kusal Mendis at the crease.

Pakistan's Salman Ali Agha responded to his T20I omission with his fastest ODI century against Sri Lanka in the tri-series opener in Rawalpindi.

Salman Ali Agha responded to his T20I axe as captain and player with a brilliant 107 off just 90 balls against Sri Lanka in the ODI tri-series opener in Rawalpindi on Sunday (Oct 18). The PCB and the selectors replaced Agha with Sahibzada Farhan as the new T20I captain and dropped him from the squad for the concluded three-match series against Sri Lanka. His departure from the T20I setup came shortly after the board sent him home along with six other players midway through the away England tour. Embarrassed and hurt over his exclusion from the two formats, Agha channelled his energy into responding to his critics with a befitting reply in the first ODI. The right-hander smashed his fourth ODI hundred -- all scored batting five or below -- with this being his quickest in the One-Day format. His heroics with the bat, which included 10 fours and a six, powered Pakistan to 305 in the first innings. Also read| PCB omits Atherton, Hussain from tri-series commentary panel over Imran Khan interview row Walking out to bat in the 20th over, Agha held one end and stitched a 97-run partnership with Hasan Nawaz for the fifth wicket, lifting Pakistan from 118 for four at one stage. The two calculated the innings’ pace and played accordingly, frustrating the Sri Lankan bowlers. Following Nawaz’s dismissal on 37, Agha and Arafat Minhas added crucial 64 runs for the sixth wicket. He completed his fastest ODI hundred in 82 balls before eventually falling to Asitha Fernando in the 47th over. Earlier, Sri Lankan captain Kusal Mendis won the toss and elected to field first. The visitors reduced Pakistan to 32 for two inside the first six overs before talismanic batter Babar Azam and newbie keeper-batter Saad Baig bailed the team out of trouble by stitching a 74-run stand for the third wicket. For the Islanders, seamer Eshan Malinga picked up four wickets for 46 runs, while Fernando and Dilshan Madushanka returned with three and two wickets each. In reply, Sri Lanka lost one wicket for 42 runs in 10 overs, with captain Mendis and opener Kusal Mendis at the crease.

Pakistan's Salman Ali Agha responded to his T20I omission with his fastest ODI century against Sri Lanka in the tri-series opener in Rawalpindi.

Pakistan's Salman Agha responds to T20I axe with 107 vs Sri Lanka in ODI tri-series opener

The West Indies’ wait for a bilateral series win in India since 2002 continues after the fifth T20I was abandoned following just 46 balls of India’s innings. The visitors had lost all three of their previous bilateral T20I series in India, winning only one of seven matches. However, they put up a much stronger fight this time, with head coach Daren Sammy calling their performance a “massive step” towards achieving their goals.&nbsp;Sammy praised his team’s fighting spirit against India, saying the West Indies had “outplayed” the hosts in certain areas, even on their home turf.&nbsp;Under Shai Hope’s captaincy, the West Indies showed both determination and power-hitting throughout the series, managing to draw 2-2 against the reigning ICC Men’s T20 World Cup champions.&nbsp;“We understand what success means to us, we don’t ever take for granted where we are as a team and the challenges that we face. We just look to make those strides, and I think after this series we’ve taken a massive step. We played against the defending champions, and we’ve matched them, and in certain areas we’ve outplayed them, especially in their backyard, ’’Sammy said at the post-match press conference.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2027-trade-ashwin-hardik-pandya-rajasthan-royals-csk-kkr-1792327321379">IPL 2027 Trade: Ravi Ashwin suggests new franchise for Hardik Pandya amid CSK rumours</a>&nbsp;Sammy also said the 2-2 result reflected the teams’ performances throughout the series. He added that his players had proved their critics wrong, as many had given the West Indies little chance before the series began.&nbsp;“It’s a true reflection of how all the teams have played, especially for our guys. I’m pretty sure when the series started, we probably didn’t have a chance. But that was just the opinion of others,” he added.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sunil-gavaskar-hardik-pandya-irreplaceable-team-india-replacement-1792325273165">Stop searching for Hardik Pandya's replacement; he’s irreplaceable: Gavaskar</a>&nbsp;India will now travel to New Zealand for an all-format tour beginning on Oct 22. Meanwhile, the West Indies will head to Bangladesh for a two-match series in the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27.&nbsp;With inputs from agencies

Daren Sammy hailed West Indies’ fighting performance after their T20I series against India ended 2-2, calling it a “massive step” towards their goals and praising the team for outplaying the defending champions in certain areas.

The West Indies’ wait for a bilateral series win in India since 2002 continues after the fifth T20I was abandoned following just 46 balls of India’s innings. The visitors had lost all three of their previous bilateral T20I series in India, winning only one of seven matches. However, they put up a much stronger fight this time, with head coach Daren Sammy calling their performance a “massive step” towards achieving their goals. Sammy praised his team’s fighting spirit against India, saying the West Indies had “outplayed” the hosts in certain areas, even on their home turf. Under Shai Hope’s captaincy, the West Indies showed both determination and power-hitting throughout the series, managing to draw 2-2 against the reigning ICC Men’s T20 World Cup champions. “We understand what success means to us, we don’t ever take for granted where we are as a team and the challenges that we face. We just look to make those strides, and I think after this series we’ve taken a massive step. We played against the defending champions, and we’ve matched them, and in certain areas we’ve outplayed them, especially in their backyard, ’’Sammy said at the post-match press conference. Also Read - IPL 2027 Trade: Ravi Ashwin suggests new franchise for Hardik Pandya amid CSK rumours Sammy also said the 2-2 result reflected the teams’ performances throughout the series. He added that his players had proved their critics wrong, as many had given the West Indies little chance before the series began. “It’s a true reflection of how all the teams have played, especially for our guys. I’m pretty sure when the series started, we probably didn’t have a chance. But that was just the opinion of others,” he added. Also Read - Stop searching for Hardik Pandya's replacement; he’s irreplaceable: Gavaskar India will now travel to New Zealand for an all-format tour beginning on Oct 22. Meanwhile, the West Indies will head to Bangladesh for a two-match series in the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27. With inputs from agencies

Daren Sammy hailed West Indies’ fighting performance after their T20I series against India ended 2-2, calling it a “massive step” towards their goals and praising the team for outplaying the defending champions in certain areas.

'We’ve outplayed them...': Head coach Sammy praises West Indies’ fighting display against India

Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya could be on his way out of the star-studded franchise ahead of IPL 2027, with the rumour mill suggesting former champions Chennai Super Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders as his potential destinations. Since returning to MI as captain ahead of the 2024 edition, Pandya hasn’t felt at home, with Mumbai Indians also parting ways with head coach Mahela Jayawardene recently. Addressing speculations around his potential trade before the window closes, former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin picked a new franchise for Pandya. &nbsp;Amid online chatter that CSK veteran MS Dhoni could personally convince Pandya to make a shock move to CSK ahead of the next season, Ashwin thinks this deal is far from materialising.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sunil-gavaskar-hardik-pandya-irreplaceable-team-india-replacement-1792325273165">Stop searching for Hardik Pandya's replacement; he’s irreplaceable: Sunil Gavaskar tells Team India</a> &nbsp;"There have been conversations that Dhoni will personally convince Hardik Pandya to come to CSK. It will be a great addition for CSK. But in my opinion, it is a real far-shot," Ashwin said of Pandya’s potential trade on his YouTube Channel. &nbsp;Ashwin claimed that Pandya’s likely new home in the IPL could be the inaugural winners, Rajasthan Royals. &nbsp;"From what I've heard, RR are at the top of the list in the Hardik trade," he added. &nbsp;Although Rajasthan hasn’t been active so far in the current IPL trade window, Pandya’s move could bolster their attack, which also includes fellow India veteran Ravindra Jadeja, who rejoined RR from CSK ahead of the last season. Chennai swapped Jadeja for Sam Curran and Sanju Samson.&nbsp;<h2>Why Not CSK for Pandya?</h2>CSK recently appointed India bowling great and former MI backroom staff member Zaheer Khan as head coach, who, per a Cricbuzz report, had a fallout with Pandya during their time together at Mumbai Indians. The report also claimed that the new CSK management, along with Dhoni’s contribution, could mend the equation between the two for this dream deal to go ahead. &nbsp;Although nothing has been formalised yet, Pandya’s trade talks would likely gather pace, with November 15 set as the deadline.&nbsp; &nbsp;Latest reports also suggested Goa as a potential destination for the IPL 2026 auction on December 16. &nbsp;Pandya, meanwhile, continues to recover at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE), with the selectors overlooking the unfit all-rounder for the white-ball leg of India’s upcoming tour of New Zealand.&nbsp;

Ravichandran Ashwin downplays Hardik Pandya's rumored moves to CSK or KKR, naming Rajasthan Royals as the frontrunners in the IPL 2027 trade window.

Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya could be on his way out of the star-studded franchise ahead of IPL 2027, with the rumour mill suggesting former champions Chennai Super Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders as his potential destinations. Since returning to MI as captain ahead of the 2024 edition, Pandya hasn’t felt at home, with Mumbai Indians also parting ways with head coach Mahela Jayawardene recently. Addressing speculations around his potential trade before the window closes, former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin picked a new franchise for Pandya. Amid online chatter that CSK veteran MS Dhoni could personally convince Pandya to make a shock move to CSK ahead of the next season, Ashwin thinks this deal is far from materialising. Also read| Stop searching for Hardik Pandya's replacement; he’s irreplaceable: Sunil Gavaskar tells Team India "There have been conversations that Dhoni will personally convince Hardik Pandya to come to CSK. It will be a great addition for CSK. But in my opinion, it is a real far-shot," Ashwin said of Pandya’s potential trade on his YouTube Channel. Ashwin claimed that Pandya’s likely new home in the IPL could be the inaugural winners, Rajasthan Royals. "From what I've heard, RR are at the top of the list in the Hardik trade," he added. Although Rajasthan hasn’t been active so far in the current IPL trade window, Pandya’s move could bolster their attack, which also includes fellow India veteran Ravindra Jadeja, who rejoined RR from CSK ahead of the last season. Chennai swapped Jadeja for Sam Curran and Sanju Samson. Why Not CSK for Pandya? CSK recently appointed India bowling great and former MI backroom staff member Zaheer Khan as head coach, who, per a Cricbuzz report, had a fallout with Pandya during their time together at Mumbai Indians. The report also claimed that the new CSK management, along with Dhoni’s contribution, could mend the equation between the two for this dream deal to go ahead. Although nothing has been formalised yet, Pandya’s trade talks would likely gather pace, with November 15 set as the deadline. Latest reports also suggested Goa as a potential destination for the IPL 2026 auction on December 16. Pandya, meanwhile, continues to recover at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE), with the selectors overlooking the unfit all-rounder for the white-ball leg of India’s upcoming tour of New Zealand.

Ravichandran Ashwin downplays Hardik Pandya's rumored moves to CSK or KKR, naming Rajasthan Royals as the frontrunners in the IPL 2027 trade window.

IPL 2027 Trade: Ravi Ashwin suggests new franchise for Hardik Pandya amid CSK rumours

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has asked the team management to stop seeking a like-for-like replacement for injured all-rounder Hardik Pandya, whom he calls irreplaceable. Pandya has been away from all cricket action since IPL 2026 and was not picked for the white-ball leg of the away New Zealand series starting October 22. His absence was also felt during the concluded five-match T20I series against the West Indies, which ended 2-2 following the washout in the series decider in Bengaluru. &nbsp;Speaking of India’s relentless efforts to find someone with a similar skill set to Pandya, Gavaskar said India must look to seek other all-rounders and restrategise their playing module. Against the West Indies, India played Nitish Kumar Reddy, Axar Patel and Naman Dhir as all-rounders, as all impressed with brief performances.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shubman-gill-flops-ranji-trophy-return-punjab-vs-chhattisgarh-bowled-for-1-1792317040829">Ranji Trophy: Shubman Gill flops on return, bowled for 1 against Chhattisgarh</a> &nbsp;“We sometimes get a little bit carried away with trying to find a replacement for Hardik Pandya. Hardik Pandya is irreplaceable. If you can’t find somebody of his calibre, then go with somebody who will do a slightly different job,” Gavaskar said on JioStar after the fifth T20I. &nbsp;A top performer across departments for India, Pandya has seen persistent injury setbacks causing a major headache for selectors and team management. Although he hasn’t played an ODI since the ICC Champions Trophy final in February 2025, Pandya last featured for India during the triumphant T20 World Cup final in early March 2026. &nbsp;Crucial with both bat and ball, Pandya maintains the right balance in India’s white-ball setup. However, Punjab all-rounder Dhir has impressed Gavaskar with his exploits during the white-ball series against the West Indies. During the washed-out T20I in Bengaluru, the right-hander smoked three sixes and a four in his unbeaten 24 off six balls, helping India accelerate in a rain-hit fixture. &nbsp;“Naman Dhir is doing that job. He’s bowling his overs well, and look at the way he batted in this game,” he said, referring to Dhir’s unbeaten six-ball 24 in the rain-hit series decider, in which only 7.4 overs of play were possible. &nbsp;“The takeaway from the series is that, in their bowling, they have to play with at least four regular bowlers. A fifth bowler and a sixth can be your all-rounders, somebody who can bat as well. Somebody like a Naman Dhir, who’s more of a batter but who can come in and bowl two or three overs. Axar Patel, who can bowl his four overs,” said Gavaskar.

Sunil Gavaskar advises Team India to stop searching for a like-for-like replacement for Hardik Pandya, calling the star fast-bowling all-rounder irreplaceable.

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has asked the team management to stop seeking a like-for-like replacement for injured all-rounder Hardik Pandya, whom he calls irreplaceable. Pandya has been away from all cricket action since IPL 2026 and was not picked for the white-ball leg of the away New Zealand series starting October 22. His absence was also felt during the concluded five-match T20I series against the West Indies, which ended 2-2 following the washout in the series decider in Bengaluru. Speaking of India’s relentless efforts to find someone with a similar skill set to Pandya, Gavaskar said India must look to seek other all-rounders and restrategise their playing module. Against the West Indies, India played Nitish Kumar Reddy, Axar Patel and Naman Dhir as all-rounders, as all impressed with brief performances. Also read| Ranji Trophy: Shubman Gill flops on return, bowled for 1 against Chhattisgarh “We sometimes get a little bit carried away with trying to find a replacement for Hardik Pandya. Hardik Pandya is irreplaceable. If you can’t find somebody of his calibre, then go with somebody who will do a slightly different job,” Gavaskar said on JioStar after the fifth T20I. A top performer across departments for India, Pandya has seen persistent injury setbacks causing a major headache for selectors and team management. Although he hasn’t played an ODI since the ICC Champions Trophy final in February 2025, Pandya last featured for India during the triumphant T20 World Cup final in early March 2026. Crucial with both bat and ball, Pandya maintains the right balance in India’s white-ball setup. However, Punjab all-rounder Dhir has impressed Gavaskar with his exploits during the white-ball series against the West Indies. During the washed-out T20I in Bengaluru, the right-hander smoked three sixes and a four in his unbeaten 24 off six balls, helping India accelerate in a rain-hit fixture. “Naman Dhir is doing that job. He’s bowling his overs well, and look at the way he batted in this game,” he said, referring to Dhir’s unbeaten six-ball 24 in the rain-hit series decider, in which only 7.4 overs of play were possible. “The takeaway from the series is that, in their bowling, they have to play with at least four regular bowlers. A fifth bowler and a sixth can be your all-rounders, somebody who can bat as well. Somebody like a Naman Dhir, who’s more of a batter but who can come in and bowl two or three overs. Axar Patel, who can bowl his four overs,” said Gavaskar.

Sunil Gavaskar advises Team India to stop searching for a like-for-like replacement for Hardik Pandya, calling the star fast-bowling all-rounder irreplaceable.

Stop searching for Hardik Pandya's replacement; he’s irreplaceable: Sunil Gavaskar tells Team India

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) omitted English cricketers-turned-broadcasters Michael Atherton and Nasser Hussain from the ODI tri-series commentary panel over the Imran Khan sons' interview row. With Pakistan hosting England and Sri Lanka in the tri-series, and the tournament opener between Pakistan and Sri Lanka already underway in Rawalpindi, the PCB announced a six-member commentary panel, notably excluding the English duo, who interviewed jailed Imran Khan’s sons, Kasim and Sulaiman Khan, during the home Test series earlier this year. &nbsp;Long considered two of the most respected voices in world cricket broadcasting, Atherton and Hussain have called out games at all ICC events and home and away bilateral series over the years. Their absence comes two months after Atherton interviewed Imran’s sons ahead of the start of the second Test at Lord’s. The PCB, however, hasn’t provided any reasoning for the duo’s absence from the commentary panel.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sa-vs-aus-2nd-test-rain-delay-rabada-returns-boland-in-playing-xi-1792314820883">SA vs AUS 2nd Test: Rain delays start as Rabada returns; Boland replaces Lyon for Australia</a> &nbsp;British broadcaster Sky Sports televised Imran’s sons' interview, which lasted 18 minutes and raised concerns over their father’s deteriorating health in Pakistan’s prison. Imran’s sons Kasim and Sulaiman alleged that the authorities were ‘blatantly trying to kill him’ through neglect and isolation.&nbsp; &nbsp;The interview broadcast triggered widespread reaction from the PCB and Pakistan government, which were also reported to have warned ECB of repercussions. Several reports also claimed that the PCB threatened to boycott the Lord’s Test should the interview go ahead, but eventually continued.&nbsp; &nbsp;Sky Sports went ahead with the interview despite the pressure, although Pakistan’s state broadcaster PTV censored the segment and played advertisements instead. Atherton also raised concerns around this controversy on a podcast with Hussain, defending his involvement in conducting the interview and saying that Pakistan was attempting to ‘airbrush Imran out of existence’. &nbsp;Meanwhile, the six commentators named for the ODI tri-series include Waqar Younis, Aamir Sohail, Bazid Khan, Urooj Mumtaz, Roshan Abeysinghe and England’s Mark Butcher. Pace veteran Younis will join the panel from the second game onwards, when Pakistan will host England in Rawalpindi on October 20.

PCB has omitted Michael Atherton and Nasser Hussain from the ODI tri-series commentary panel over their controversial interview with Imran Khan’s sons.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) omitted English cricketers-turned-broadcasters Michael Atherton and Nasser Hussain from the ODI tri-series commentary panel over the Imran Khan sons' interview row. With Pakistan hosting England and Sri Lanka in the tri-series, and the tournament opener between Pakistan and Sri Lanka already underway in Rawalpindi, the PCB announced a six-member commentary panel, notably excluding the English duo, who interviewed jailed Imran Khan’s sons, Kasim and Sulaiman Khan, during the home Test series earlier this year. Long considered two of the most respected voices in world cricket broadcasting, Atherton and Hussain have called out games at all ICC events and home and away bilateral series over the years. Their absence comes two months after Atherton interviewed Imran’s sons ahead of the start of the second Test at Lord’s. The PCB, however, hasn’t provided any reasoning for the duo’s absence from the commentary panel. Also read| SA vs AUS 2nd Test: Rain delays start as Rabada returns; Boland replaces Lyon for Australia British broadcaster Sky Sports televised Imran’s sons' interview, which lasted 18 minutes and raised concerns over their father’s deteriorating health in Pakistan’s prison. Imran’s sons Kasim and Sulaiman alleged that the authorities were ‘blatantly trying to kill him’ through neglect and isolation. The interview broadcast triggered widespread reaction from the PCB and Pakistan government, which were also reported to have warned ECB of repercussions. Several reports also claimed that the PCB threatened to boycott the Lord’s Test should the interview go ahead, but eventually continued. Sky Sports went ahead with the interview despite the pressure, although Pakistan’s state broadcaster PTV censored the segment and played advertisements instead. Atherton also raised concerns around this controversy on a podcast with Hussain, defending his involvement in conducting the interview and saying that Pakistan was attempting to ‘airbrush Imran out of existence’. Meanwhile, the six commentators named for the ODI tri-series include Waqar Younis, Aamir Sohail, Bazid Khan, Urooj Mumtaz, Roshan Abeysinghe and England’s Mark Butcher. Pace veteran Younis will join the panel from the second game onwards, when Pakistan will host England in Rawalpindi on October 20.

PCB has omitted Michael Atherton and Nasser Hussain from the ODI tri-series commentary panel over their controversial interview with Imran Khan’s sons.

PCB omits Atherton, Hussain from tri-series commentary panel over Imran Khan interview row

India ODI and Test captain Shubman Gill flopped on his return to the Ranji Trophy competition for Punjab against Chhattisgarh on Sunday (Oct 18). After missing the first match for his state side due to personal reasons, Gill was picked for the second game, only to last five balls in the first innings on day one at the New Chandigarh Stadium in Mullanpur. &nbsp;Following a career-best ODI series against the West Indies, where he scored a hundred and a match-winning double century (223*) in back-to-back matches, Gill was bowled on just one, with the left-arm spinner Ajay Mandal picking up the prize wicket.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-a-tour-new-zealand-live-streaming-telecast-coaching-staff-1792245620541">India ‘A’ Tour of New Zealand: Coaching staff announced, live streaming and telecast details inside</a> &nbsp;Batting in his usual Test position, Gill walked in at number four in the 26th over. He got off to the mark with a single off the second delivery he faced, but failed to convert it afterwards. Mandal beat Gill’s defence with a straightener as it went through the gap between the bat and the pad before crashing into the middle stump. Gill’s dismissal left Punjab reeling at 68/3 at that stage, bringing an early end to his first outing for Punjab in Ranji this season.&nbsp;WATCH Gill's Dismissal -

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">https://t.co/LXUc7UXSX9&mdash; ' (@stumpsrattled) <a href="https://x.com/stumpsrattled/status/2111698637831209021?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 18, 2026</a></blockquote>
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<h3>One More Innings before Gill flies to NZ</h3>Gill will have another innings to make amends for his first-innings failure before leaving for New Zealand for the full tour starting October 22. Gill will lead the Men in Blue for the first three ODIs before T20I captain Shreyas Iyer takes over for the remaining two One-Dayers.&nbsp; &nbsp;Gill, along with several Test starters, including KL Rahul, will miss the last two ODI matches to prepare for the two Tests that follow.&nbsp; &nbsp;Several reports also suggest that the Indian ODI captain will have <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shubman-gill-personal-net-bowlers-new-zealand-tour-1792240523647">four to five personal net bowlers travelling exclusively for him</a>, whose flights, accommodation, and expenses he will cover out of pocket. &nbsp;The 27-year-old, however, will not feature in three four-day ‘A’ games, but plans to arrive in New Zealand earlier than the ODI and Test squads to acclimatise to the challenging conditions. &nbsp;Gill will play his first-ever Test match on New Zealand soil.&nbsp;

Shubman Gill flopped on his Ranji Trophy return for Punjab, bowled for just 1 run by Chhattisgarh's Ajay Mandal. Read match details and his upcoming NZ tour plans.

India ODI and Test captain Shubman Gill flopped on his return to the Ranji Trophy competition for Punjab against Chhattisgarh on Sunday (Oct 18). After missing the first match for his state side due to personal reasons, Gill was picked for the second game, only to last five balls in the first innings on day one at the New Chandigarh Stadium in Mullanpur. Following a career-best ODI series against the West Indies, where he scored a hundred and a match-winning double century (223*) in back-to-back matches, Gill was bowled on just one, with the left-arm spinner Ajay Mandal picking up the prize wicket. Also read| India ‘A’ Tour of New Zealand: Coaching staff announced, live streaming and telecast details inside Batting in his usual Test position, Gill walked in at number four in the 26th over. He got off to the mark with a single off the second delivery he faced, but failed to convert it afterwards. Mandal beat Gill’s defence with a straightener as it went through the gap between the bat and the pad before crashing into the middle stump. Gill’s dismissal left Punjab reeling at 68/3 at that stage, bringing an early end to his first outing for Punjab in Ranji this season. WATCH Gill's Dismissal -

Shubman Gill flopped on his Ranji Trophy return for Punjab, bowled for just 1 run by Chhattisgarh's Ajay Mandal. Read match details and his upcoming NZ tour plans.

Ranji Trophy: Shubman Gill flops on return, bowled for 1 against Chhattisgarh

Rain has delayed the start of the second Test between South Africa and Australia at St George's Park in Gqeberha on Sunday (Oct 18). Australia captain Pat Cummins won the toss and elected to field first, with the two captains making at least one change to their playing XI. While Cummins has benched off-spinner Nathan Lyon for Scott Boland, Proteas captain Temba Bavuma confirmed three changes, including Kagiso Rabada’s inclusion. Marques Ackerman debuts for the hosts, while ODI mainstay Matthew Breetzke also returns to the Test side. Among those who miss out are Kyle Verreynne, Keshav Maharaj, and Tristan Stubbs.<h3>Playing XIs of both teams –</h3>South Africa: Aiden Markram, Marques Ackerman, David Bedingham, Temba Bavuma (captain), Matthew Breetzke, Ryan Rickelton (wk), Wiaan Mulder, Marco Jansen, Simon Harmer, Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Nortje &nbsp;Australia: Nic Maddinson, Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, Steven Smith, Matt Renshaw, Alex Carey (wk), Beau Webster, Pat Cummins (captain), Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Scott Boland&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/brendan-taylor-overtakes-andy-flower-to-become-zimbabwe-s-leading-odi-run-scorer-1792298464919">Brendan Taylor overtakes Andy Flower to become Zimbabwe’s leading ODI run-scorer</a><h3>Here is what the two captains said at the toss –</h3>Pat Cummins, Australia captain – “We're going to have a bowl. Obviously, a little bit of clouds about, a bit of weather, and the pitch looks pretty good, so have the first crack at it.&nbsp; &nbsp;“Yeah, just one change (on team changes). Nathan Lyon comes out, and Scotty Boland comes in. I think partly conditions, and Scotty Boland has been incredible whenever he's played Test cricket. So felt like it aligned this week and was the right time to insert him.&nbsp; &nbsp;“It was a great win last week, but I think there's still some areas that we weren't ruthless enough in. So that's been a lot of the conversation this week. Different conditions, obviously, a couple of changes for the South African side as well. So got to be right on from this first morning.&nbsp; &nbsp;“So, we're in a great position, 1–0 up. We're desperately going to give it our best shot,” he said. &nbsp;Temba Bavuma, South Africa captain – “Yeah, look, I mean, we were a little bit undecided, but that being said, the decision has been made on our behalf. Probably going to be tougher in the morning. Overhead conditions look quite moist, the wicket, but we'll have to fight it out the first session and then set it up for the guys to come in and put a competitive score.&nbsp; &nbsp;“We've got three changes. We've got a debutant, Ackerman, Breetzke as well; he comes into the team, and then obviously Kagiso Rabada. From a bowling perspective, we've got the one spinner - Simon Harmer. Keshav misses out. We've got Kyle Verreynne; he misses out. And Stubbs,” Bavuma continued. &nbsp;Meanwhile, the weather forecast suggests rain interruption on the first two days of the second Test.&nbsp; &nbsp;Australia won the series opener in Durban by 214 runs, taking a 1-0 lead in this three-match series.

Rain delays the start of the SA vs AUS 2nd Test in Gqeberha. Pat Cummins elects to field as Scott Boland comes in for Nathan Lyon and Kagiso Rabada returns for South Africa. Read the full toss updates and playing XIs.

Rain has delayed the start of the second Test between South Africa and Australia at St George's Park in Gqeberha on Sunday (Oct 18). Australia captain Pat Cummins won the toss and elected to field first, with the two captains making at least one change to their playing XI. While Cummins has benched off-spinner Nathan Lyon for Scott Boland, Proteas captain Temba Bavuma confirmed three changes, including Kagiso Rabada’s inclusion. Marques Ackerman debuts for the hosts, while ODI mainstay Matthew Breetzke also returns to the Test side. Among those who miss out are Kyle Verreynne, Keshav Maharaj, and Tristan Stubbs. Playing XIs of both teams – South Africa: Aiden Markram, Marques Ackerman, David Bedingham, Temba Bavuma (captain), Matthew Breetzke, Ryan Rickelton (wk), Wiaan Mulder, Marco Jansen, Simon Harmer, Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Nortje Australia: Nic Maddinson, Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, Steven Smith, Matt Renshaw, Alex Carey (wk), Beau Webster, Pat Cummins (captain), Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Scott Boland Also read| Brendan Taylor overtakes Andy Flower to become Zimbabwe’s leading ODI run-scorer Here is what the two captains said at the toss – Pat Cummins, Australia captain – “We're going to have a bowl. Obviously, a little bit of clouds about, a bit of weather, and the pitch looks pretty good, so have the first crack at it. “Yeah, just one change (on team changes). Nathan Lyon comes out, and Scotty Boland comes in. I think partly conditions, and Scotty Boland has been incredible whenever he's played Test cricket. So felt like it aligned this week and was the right time to insert him. “It was a great win last week, but I think there's still some areas that we weren't ruthless enough in. So that's been a lot of the conversation this week. Different conditions, obviously, a couple of changes for the South African side as well. So got to be right on from this first morning. “So, we're in a great position, 1–0 up. We're desperately going to give it our best shot,” he said. Temba Bavuma, South Africa captain – “Yeah, look, I mean, we were a little bit undecided, but that being said, the decision has been made on our behalf. Probably going to be tougher in the morning. Overhead conditions look quite moist, the wicket, but we'll have to fight it out the first session and then set it up for the guys to come in and put a competitive score. “We've got three changes. We've got a debutant, Ackerman, Breetzke as well; he comes into the team, and then obviously Kagiso Rabada. From a bowling perspective, we've got the one spinner - Simon Harmer. Keshav misses out. We've got Kyle Verreynne; he misses out. And Stubbs,” Bavuma continued. Meanwhile, the weather forecast suggests rain interruption on the first two days of the second Test. Australia won the series opener in Durban by 214 runs, taking a 1-0 lead in this three-match series.

Rain delays the start of the SA vs AUS 2nd Test in Gqeberha. Pat Cummins elects to field as Scott Boland comes in for Nathan Lyon and Kagiso Rabada returns for South Africa. Read the full toss updates and playing XIs.

SA vs AUS 2nd Test: Rain delays start as Rabada returns; Boland replaces Lyon for Australia

From Virat Kohli to Rohit Sharma, here's a look at the top five batters in latest ICC ODI rankings 2026. This list also includes Daryl Mitchell, Ibrahim Zadran and Shubman Gill

From Virat Kohli to Rohit Sharma, here's a look at the top five batters in latest ICC ODI rankings 2026. This list also includes Daryl Mitchell, Ibrahim Zadran and Shubman Gill

Meet top 5 batters in latest ICC ODI rankings 2026 - check who sits at the top

Indian skipper Shreyas Iyer has revealed that he continues to encourage young batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi to trust his process and stay focused, assuring the teenager that he will get his chances. India’s five-match T20I series against the West Indies ended in a 2-2 draw after the rain-hit fifth match in Bengaluru was abandoned. The game was reduced to nine overs per side before rain forced an early end.&nbsp;Sooryavanshi did not play a single match in the series and his last appearance for India came in the Asian Games final against arch-rivals Pakistan. The youngster has scored 246 runs in eight T20Is at a strike rate of over 186, including two half-centuries.&nbsp;India continued to back Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma as their openers. Samson scored 168 runs in five matches at a strike rate of 195.34, while Abhishek made 145 runs at a strike rate of 181.25. Both batters registered two half-centuries in the series.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/success-doesn-t-have-to-be-wi-skipper-hope-after-t20i-series-draw-against-india-1792296762183">'Success doesn't have to be...': Hope after T20I series draw against India</a>&nbsp;Speaking during the post-match proceedings about Sooryavanshi, Iyer said, “I just keep telling him Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, you will get your opportunities. If you are consistent with your process, mindset a bit light and not think too much about not getting an opportunity….you have to wait sometimes. We have two fantastic openers who’ve been consistent throughout.”&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/brendan-taylor-overtakes-andy-flower-to-become-zimbabwe-s-leading-odi-run-scorer-1792298464919">Brendan Taylor overtakes Andy Flower to become Zimbabwe’s leading ODI run-scorer</a>&nbsp;Reflecting on the high-scoring series, Iyer admitted that India could have achieved a different result if their bowlers had performed better in the second and fourth matches, when they conceded more than 240 runs. The West Indies also pulled off a massive 250-run chase in the second T20I, making it one of the standout moments of the series.&nbsp;“Could have been a different series scoreline if we had bowled well in the 2nd and 4th game. Batting has been sensational, execution we fell short. Credit where due, they batted phenomenally well. Kudos to Shai Hope; he was superb. The ability to bounce back even after a loss among the big plusses. We were not able to be consistent throughout, so great learning. Even today, the way we went about our batting was outstanding. Gonna be a challenging series in New Zealand now,” he signed off.

Despite being named in the squad, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi did not feature in any of the five T20Is against the West Indies.

Indian skipper Shreyas Iyer has revealed that he continues to encourage young batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi to trust his process and stay focused, assuring the teenager that he will get his chances. India’s five-match T20I series against the West Indies ended in a 2-2 draw after the rain-hit fifth match in Bengaluru was abandoned. The game was reduced to nine overs per side before rain forced an early end. Sooryavanshi did not play a single match in the series and his last appearance for India came in the Asian Games final against arch-rivals Pakistan. The youngster has scored 246 runs in eight T20Is at a strike rate of over 186, including two half-centuries. India continued to back Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma as their openers. Samson scored 168 runs in five matches at a strike rate of 195.34, while Abhishek made 145 runs at a strike rate of 181.25. Both batters registered two half-centuries in the series. Also Read - 'Success doesn't have to be...': Hope after T20I series draw against India Speaking during the post-match proceedings about Sooryavanshi, Iyer said, “I just keep telling him Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, you will get your opportunities. If you are consistent with your process, mindset a bit light and not think too much about not getting an opportunity….you have to wait sometimes. We have two fantastic openers who’ve been consistent throughout.” Also Read - Brendan Taylor overtakes Andy Flower to become Zimbabwe’s leading ODI run-scorer Reflecting on the high-scoring series, Iyer admitted that India could have achieved a different result if their bowlers had performed better in the second and fourth matches, when they conceded more than 240 runs. The West Indies also pulled off a massive 250-run chase in the second T20I, making it one of the standout moments of the series. “Could have been a different series scoreline if we had bowled well in the 2nd and 4th game. Batting has been sensational, execution we fell short. Credit where due, they batted phenomenally well. Kudos to Shai Hope; he was superb. The ability to bounce back even after a loss among the big plusses. We were not able to be consistent throughout, so great learning. Even today, the way we went about our batting was outstanding. Gonna be a challenging series in New Zealand now,” he signed off.

Despite being named in the squad, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi did not feature in any of the five T20Is against the West Indies.

'keep telling him you will get your opportunities': Iyer opens up on conversations with Sooryavanshi

Former Zimbabwe captain Brendan Taylor has made history by becoming his country’s highest run-scorer in ODIs after returning to international cricket last year following a reversal of his retirement decision. The 40-year-old achieved the milestone on Saturday (Oct 17) during Zimbabwe’s match against Bangladesh in the first game of the ODI tri-series in the UAE. Batting at No. 4, he scored 81 runs off 101 balls to help Zimbabwe post 271/8 in 50 overs.&nbsp;During his innings, Taylor went past Andy Flower’s record of 6,786 ODI runs to become Zimbabwe’s leading run-scorer in the format. He needed 31 runs to break the record and reached the mark with the fifth ball of the 16th over, bowled by Mosaddek Hossain.&nbsp;Taylor, who led Zimbabwe at the 2015 ICC Men’s ODI World Cup, made his ODI debut in 2004. He has now scored 6,837 runs in 211 matches, including 11 centuries and 40 half-centuries.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/success-doesn-t-have-to-be-wi-skipper-hope-after-t20i-series-draw-against-india-1792296762183">'Success doesn't have to be...': WI skipper Hope after T20I series draw against India</a>&nbsp;Flower, widely regarded as one of Zimbabwe’s greatest cricketers, scored 6,786 runs in 213 ODIs between 1992 and 2003.&nbsp;In the list of Zimbabwe’s highest run-scorers in ODIs, Taylor and Flower are followed by Grant Flower and Hamilton Masakadza. Grant scored 6,571 runs in 221 matches during his 18-year ODI career, while Masakadza finished with 5,658 runs in 209 matches between 2001 and 2019.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-wi-5th-t20i-rain-washes-out-decider-bhuvneshwar-kumar-return-1792265921097">Rain washes out 5th T20I as India-West Indies share honours 2-2</a><h3>Most runs in ODIs for Zimbabwe</h3>

<figure class="table"><table><thead><tr><th>Player</th><th>Time Span</th><th>M</th><th>R</th><th>BS</th><th>Average</th><th>SR</th><th>100</th><th>50</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Brendan Taylor</td><td>2004-2026</td><td>211</td><td>6837</td><td>145*</td><td>35.24</td><td>76.55</td><td>11</td><td>40</td></tr><tr><td>Andy Flower</td><td>1992-2003</td><td>213</td><td>6786</td><td>145</td><td>35.34</td><td>74.59</td><td>4</td><td>55</td></tr><tr><td>Grant Flower</td><td>1992-2010</td><td>221</td><td>6571</td><td>142*</td><td>33.52</td><td>67.58</td><td>6</td><td>40</td></tr><tr><td>Hamilton Masakadza</td><td>2001-2019</td><td>209</td><td>5658</td><td>178*</td><td>27.73</td><td>73.21</td><td>5</td><td>34</td></tr><tr><td>Sean Williams</td><td>2005-2025</td><td>164</td><td>5217</td><td>174</td><td>37.53</td><td>86.95</td><td>8</td><td>37</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

Brendan Taylor made history on Saturday (Oct 17) by becoming Zimbabwe’s highest run-scorer in ODI cricket.

Former Zimbabwe captain Brendan Taylor has made history by becoming his country’s highest run-scorer in ODIs after returning to international cricket last year following a reversal of his retirement decision. The 40-year-old achieved the milestone on Saturday (Oct 17) during Zimbabwe’s match against Bangladesh in the first game of the ODI tri-series in the UAE. Batting at No. 4, he scored 81 runs off 101 balls to help Zimbabwe post 271/8 in 50 overs. During his innings, Taylor went past Andy Flower’s record of 6,786 ODI runs to become Zimbabwe’s leading run-scorer in the format. He needed 31 runs to break the record and reached the mark with the fifth ball of the 16th over, bowled by Mosaddek Hossain. Taylor, who led Zimbabwe at the 2015 ICC Men’s ODI World Cup, made his ODI debut in 2004. He has now scored 6,837 runs in 211 matches, including 11 centuries and 40 half-centuries. Also Read - 'Success doesn't have to be...': WI skipper Hope after T20I series draw against India Flower, widely regarded as one of Zimbabwe’s greatest cricketers, scored 6,786 runs in 213 ODIs between 1992 and 2003. In the list of Zimbabwe’s highest run-scorers in ODIs, Taylor and Flower are followed by Grant Flower and Hamilton Masakadza. Grant scored 6,571 runs in 221 matches during his 18-year ODI career, while Masakadza finished with 5,658 runs in 209 matches between 2001 and 2019. Also Read - Rain washes out 5th T20I as India-West Indies share honours 2-2 Most runs in ODIs for Zimbabwe

Brendan Taylor made history on Saturday (Oct 17) by becoming Zimbabwe’s highest run-scorer in ODI cricket.

Brendan Taylor overtakes Andy Flower to become Zimbabwe’s leading ODI run-scorer

West Indies captain Shai Hope said his team’s performance in the 2-2 T20I series draw against India showed how much the side had improved as a unit. He also stressed that “success does not necessarily have to be series wins”. The high-scoring series ended without a result after rain forced the fifth and final T20I to be abandoned following just 7.4 overs of play. With no result possible in the decider, captains Shreyas Iyer and Shai Hope shared the trophy after their teams delivered strong performances in the first four matches.&nbsp;However, West Indies are still waiting for a bilateral series win in India, as their last such success came during the 2002-03 tour, when they won the ODI series 4-3.&nbsp;Speaking after the match, Hope reflected on his team’s progress and the importance of taking the series to a 2-2 draw.&nbsp;“We have not won a series here in 20-plus years. To get this far in the series shows what we’ve done as a unit. Success does not necessarily have to be series wins, to see the way the guys have been progressing has been commendable.”&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-w-vs-zim-w-2nd-t20i-when-and-where-to-watch-live-streaming-in-india-1792244074722">IND-W vs ZIM-W, 2nd T20I: When and where to watch live streaming in India?</a>&nbsp;Hope also praised his bowling attack, particularly Shamar Springer, Keemo Paul and Roston Chase, for their contributions throughout the series. Springer took seven wickets, while Paul finished with eight and Chase claimed six.&nbsp;&nbsp;Paul also picked up a five-wicket haul in the previous match in Hyderabad, helping West Indies defend a huge total of 248 runs.&nbsp;“Bowling front, saw Shamar Springer come in and play a crucial role at the back end, wickets and death overs. Keemo Paul similarly, Roston has been bowling well. The way we play our cricket in general, everyone was chipping in. Pleasing from the bowling side of things,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sa-vs-aus-2nd-test-rabada-return-bavuma-team-changes-1792248097107">SA vs AUS 2nd Test: Kagiso Rabada set to return as Bavuma signals team changes</a>&nbsp;Hope, who was named Player of the Series, also spoke about the importance of confidence and sticking to his usual approach. He scored two centuries during the T20I series and has now hit four centuries across the ODI and T20I formats.&nbsp;“Still have to have self-belief; when I cross the line, I still believe I can get the job done. My process never changes; I try and stay as neutral as I can,” he concluded.

West Indies captain Shai Hope highlighted his team’s progress after the 2-2 T20I series draw against India, saying success is not always measured by series victories.

West Indies captain Shai Hope said his team’s performance in the 2-2 T20I series draw against India showed how much the side had improved as a unit. He also stressed that “success does not necessarily have to be series wins”. The high-scoring series ended without a result after rain forced the fifth and final T20I to be abandoned following just 7.4 overs of play. With no result possible in the decider, captains Shreyas Iyer and Shai Hope shared the trophy after their teams delivered strong performances in the first four matches. However, West Indies are still waiting for a bilateral series win in India, as their last such success came during the 2002-03 tour, when they won the ODI series 4-3. Speaking after the match, Hope reflected on his team’s progress and the importance of taking the series to a 2-2 draw. “We have not won a series here in 20-plus years. To get this far in the series shows what we’ve done as a unit. Success does not necessarily have to be series wins, to see the way the guys have been progressing has been commendable.” Also Read - IND-W vs ZIM-W, 2nd T20I: When and where to watch live streaming in India? Hope also praised his bowling attack, particularly Shamar Springer, Keemo Paul and Roston Chase, for their contributions throughout the series. Springer took seven wickets, while Paul finished with eight and Chase claimed six. Paul also picked up a five-wicket haul in the previous match in Hyderabad, helping West Indies defend a huge total of 248 runs. “Bowling front, saw Shamar Springer come in and play a crucial role at the back end, wickets and death overs. Keemo Paul similarly, Roston has been bowling well. The way we play our cricket in general, everyone was chipping in. Pleasing from the bowling side of things,” he said. Also Read - SA vs AUS 2nd Test: Kagiso Rabada set to return as Bavuma signals team changes Hope, who was named Player of the Series, also spoke about the importance of confidence and sticking to his usual approach. He scored two centuries during the T20I series and has now hit four centuries across the ODI and T20I formats. “Still have to have self-belief; when I cross the line, I still believe I can get the job done. My process never changes; I try and stay as neutral as I can,” he concluded.

West Indies captain Shai Hope highlighted his team’s progress after the 2-2 T20I series draw against India, saying success is not always measured by series victories.

'Success doesn't have to be...': WI skipper Hope after T20I series draw against India

India Women will look to seal the three-match T20I series when they face Zimbabwe Women in the second match at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur on Sunday (Oct 18). India lead 1-0 after a close four-wicket win in the opening game. After choosing to bowl, India restricted Zimbabwe to 114 for five, with Sharne Mayers scoring an unbeaten 43 and Kelis Ndhlovu making 42. Nandani Sharma took two wickets for 11 runs.&nbsp;India struggled during the chase, slipping to 19 for four as Nyasha Gwanzura dismissed Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma and Anushka Sharma. Deepti Sharma then scored 49 off 37 balls and shared an 82-run partnership with debutant Niki Prasad, who remained unbeaten on 39. India reached 116 for six in 15.4 overs.&nbsp;The match marked Mandhana’s first game as full-time captain and the first women’s international at the Raipur venue. Zimbabwe will now aim to build on their bowling performance and level the series.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-wi-5th-t20i-toss-result-bhuvneshwar-kumar-return-1792251523260">IND vs WI 5th T20I: WI bowl first in 9-over match as Bhuvneshwar Kumar returns</a><h2>India vs Zimbabwe Women, 2nd T20I: Match Details</h2><h2>When will the 2nd T20I be played?</h2>The India Women vs Zimbabwe Women 2nd T20I is scheduled for Oct 18, with the match set to begin at 07:00 pm IST. The toss will take place at 06:30 pm IST.<h2>Where is the match being played?</h2>The match will be held at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-wi-5th-t20i-rain-washes-out-decider-bhuvneshwar-kumar-return-1792265921097">Rain washes out 5th T20I as India-West Indies share honours 2-2</a><h2>Where can fans watch the match on television?</h2>The India Women vs Zimbabwe Women 2nd T20I live telecast will be available on the Star Sports in India.<h2>Where to livestream India-W vs Zimbabwe-W, 2nd T20I?</h2>The India Women vs Zimbabwe Women 2nd T20I will be streamed live on the JioHotstar app and website.

As the crucial clash between India Women and Zimbabwe Women approaches, here’s a look at the live streaming details for fans in India.

India Women will look to seal the three-match T20I series when they face Zimbabwe Women in the second match at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur on Sunday (Oct 18). India lead 1-0 after a close four-wicket win in the opening game. After choosing to bowl, India restricted Zimbabwe to 114 for five, with Sharne Mayers scoring an unbeaten 43 and Kelis Ndhlovu making 42. Nandani Sharma took two wickets for 11 runs. India struggled during the chase, slipping to 19 for four as Nyasha Gwanzura dismissed Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma and Anushka Sharma. Deepti Sharma then scored 49 off 37 balls and shared an 82-run partnership with debutant Niki Prasad, who remained unbeaten on 39. India reached 116 for six in 15.4 overs. The match marked Mandhana’s first game as full-time captain and the first women’s international at the Raipur venue. Zimbabwe will now aim to build on their bowling performance and level the series. Also Read - IND vs WI 5th T20I: WI bowl first in 9-over match as Bhuvneshwar Kumar returns India vs Zimbabwe Women, 2nd T20I: Match Details When will the 2nd T20I be played? The India Women vs Zimbabwe Women 2nd T20I is scheduled for Oct 18, with the match set to begin at 07:00 pm IST. The toss will take place at 06:30 pm IST. Where is the match being played? The match will be held at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur. Also Read - Rain washes out 5th T20I as India-West Indies share honours 2-2 Where can fans watch the match on television? The India Women vs Zimbabwe Women 2nd T20I live telecast will be available on the Star Sports in India. Where to livestream India-W vs Zimbabwe-W, 2nd T20I? The India Women vs Zimbabwe Women 2nd T20I will be streamed live on the JioHotstar app and website.

As the crucial clash between India Women and Zimbabwe Women approaches, here’s a look at the live streaming details for fans in India.

IND-W vs ZIM-W, 2nd T20I: When and where to watch live streaming in India?

Rain had the last laugh in Bengaluru as the fifth and final T20I was washed out, resulting in India and the West Indies sharing honours 2-2. The series decider was already reduced to a nine-over side, with the visitors winning the toss and sending India in to bat first. First-half action kept the fans at the iconic M Chinnaswamy engrossed before rain returned to abandon all proceedings and put curtains on a memorable T20I series between two powerhouses.<h2>Bhuvneshwar Returns After Nearly 4 Years</h2>For the first time in nearly four years, veteran quick <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-wi-5th-t20i-toss-result-bhuvneshwar-kumar-return-1792251523260">Bhuvneshwar Kumar returned to the Indian team</a> as part of two changes made to the playing XI for the fifth T20I, captain Shreyas Iyer confirmed at the toss. The crowd erupted into joy after hearing Bhuvneshwar’s inclusion in the side, replacing Mayank Yadav. Shivam Dube was another change, replacing fellow all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy. &nbsp;India lost Abhishek Sharma in the first over, before Ishan Kishan opened his arms and entertained the crowd with his blistering yet brief stay at the crease. His 30 off 10 balls, including two sixes and three fours, helped India gain early momentum.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Into the orbit 🚀 

Ishan Kishan got the Bengaluru crowd going with a quick-fire 3⃣0⃣(10) 🎇

Updates ▶️ https://t.co/hpGnrNyZVS 

#TeamIndia | #INDvWI | @mflone_ | @ishankishan51 https://t.co/CdeDA9r87n&mdash; BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://x.com/BCCI/status/2111488852997357951?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2026</a></blockquote>
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Ishan’s wicket in the third over, followed by Sanju Samson’s dismissal on 16 off seven balls soon after, brought Iyer and Tilak Varma to the crease. The two could add 22 for the fourth wicket before Hyderabad game hero Keemo Paul picked up his second of the night.<h3>Dhir Stuns West Indies</h3>In walked Naman Dhir. The right-hander didn’t waste any time before going berserk, smashing sixes and fours for fun. Before rain finally halted proceedings, Dhir had smashed three maximums and a boundary for his unbeaten 24 off just six balls, with India’s scorecard reading 118/5 in 7.4 overs. His exploits brought the crowd back to its feet, with everyone cheering the Punjab all-rounder’s clean hitting.&nbsp;WATCH -

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">How about that for a start? 💥

🎥 Naman Dhir's mighty hits from the get-go 💪

Scorecard ▶️ https://t.co/hpGnrNyZVS 

#TeamIndia | #INDvWI | @mflone_ https://t.co/JjTjDoqYj3&mdash; BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://x.com/BCCI/status/2111498386683887724?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2026</a></blockquote>
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For the West Indies, Paul and Shamar Springer returned with two wickets each, while Shamar Joseph picked up one during India’s innings. &nbsp;The rain never allowed cricket to resume after that point, with two captains and teams shaking hands to call off a memorable T20I series.

Rain has the final say in Bengaluru as the 5th T20I is washed out. India and West Indies share the series 2-2 despite fireworks from Naman Dhir & Ishan Kishan.

Rain had the last laugh in Bengaluru as the fifth and final T20I was washed out, resulting in India and the West Indies sharing honours 2-2. The series decider was already reduced to a nine-over side, with the visitors winning the toss and sending India in to bat first. First-half action kept the fans at the iconic M Chinnaswamy engrossed before rain returned to abandon all proceedings and put curtains on a memorable T20I series between two powerhouses. Bhuvneshwar Returns After Nearly 4 Years For the first time in nearly four years, veteran quick Bhuvneshwar Kumar returned to the Indian team as part of two changes made to the playing XI for the fifth T20I, captain Shreyas Iyer confirmed at the toss. The crowd erupted into joy after hearing Bhuvneshwar’s inclusion in the side, replacing Mayank Yadav. Shivam Dube was another change, replacing fellow all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy. India lost Abhishek Sharma in the first over, before Ishan Kishan opened his arms and entertained the crowd with his blistering yet brief stay at the crease. His 30 off 10 balls, including two sixes and three fours, helped India gain early momentum.

Rain has the final say in Bengaluru as the 5th T20I is washed out. India and West Indies share the series 2-2 despite fireworks from Naman Dhir &amp; Ishan Kishan.

Rain washes out 5th T20I as India-West Indies share honours 2-2

West Indies won the toss and elected to field first against India in the fifth and final T20I in Bengaluru on Saturday (Oct 17). Bhuvneshwar Kumar returns to the playing XI for the first time in nearly four years, as rain reduced the series decider to a 9-overs-a-side contest. While India made two changes to the playing XI, bringing in Shivam Dube and Bhuvi, West Indies remain unchanged for the series decider. The match will get underway at 9:15 PM IST.&nbsp;WATCH -

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🚨 Toss 🚨

West Indies have won the toss and elected to bowl first in Bengaluru.

Updates ▶️ https://t.co/hpGnrNyZVS 

#TeamIndia | #INDvWI | @mflone_ https://t.co/KIlkFuJpHY&mdash; BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://x.com/BCCI/status/2111481784047439875?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2026</a></blockquote>
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<h3>Check out the Playing XIs –</h3>West Indies - Shai Hope(w/c), Jewel Andrew, Shimron Hetmyer, Rovman Powell, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd, Roston Chase, Keemo Paul, Shamar Springer, Gudakesh Motie, Shamar Joseph &nbsp;India - Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson(w), Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer(c), Tilak Varma, Shivam Dube, Naman Dhir, Axar Patel, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Prince Yadav, Arshdeep Singh&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shubman-gill-personal-net-bowlers-new-zealand-tour-1792240523647">Shubman Gill to pay out of pocket for personal net bowlers for New Zealand tour: Report</a><h3>Here is what the two captains said at the toss –</h3>Shai Hope, West Indies Captain – “(on bowling first and conditions) Yeah, it does, but obviously rain around as well. Expected to get a little bit wetter. But yeah, it's a good pitch, and we just want to give ourselves the best chance of chasing. &nbsp;“We've got to start with the ball. That's our main focus right now: make sure we execute as best as we can in a shortened game and give ourselves the best chance.&nbsp; &nbsp;“I just think we just got to continue from in this vein and hopefully, we can finish the series strong, but we can give ourselves an opportunity to do something very special in India. So, guys are looking forward to it. Same team.” &nbsp;Shreyas Iyer, Indian Captain – “Yeah, I would have fielded as well. It's a quick turnaround. Wasn't anticipating a game, honestly, looking at the rains. But yeah, the way the drainage system is over here, it's phenomenal. And talking about the wicket, it looks pretty good.&nbsp; &nbsp;“Well, we just have to be aggressive in our approach and see to it that we are in a top-notch attitude, not get pressed too much by the pressure, or, you know, they've been playing amazing cricket as well, but that doesn't mean that we are going to shrink. It's important that we put our best foot forward and see to it that we seize the game.&nbsp; &nbsp;“We've got two changes: Shivam Dube comes in, and Bhuvi comes in,” Iyer said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Meanwhile, the five-match series is tied at 2-2, with the winner of the fifth T20I walking away with the win.

West Indies win the toss and elect to bowl in a rain-curtailed 9-over 5th T20I in Bengaluru. Bhuvneshwar Kumar returns to India's playing XI. Check team news.

West Indies won the toss and elected to field first against India in the fifth and final T20I in Bengaluru on Saturday (Oct 17). Bhuvneshwar Kumar returns to the playing XI for the first time in nearly four years, as rain reduced the series decider to a 9-overs-a-side contest. While India made two changes to the playing XI, bringing in Shivam Dube and Bhuvi, West Indies remain unchanged for the series decider. The match will get underway at 9:15 PM IST. WATCH -

West Indies win the toss and elect to bowl in a rain-curtailed 9-over 5th T20I in Bengaluru. Bhuvneshwar Kumar returns to India's playing XI. Check team news.

IND vs WI 5th T20I: WI bowl first in 9-over match as Bhuvneshwar Kumar returns

In a massive boost to South Africa, their ace seamer Kagiso Rabada is set to return to the playing XI for the second Test against Australia starting at St George's Park on Sunday (Oct 18), team captain Temba Bavuma said. Rabada missed the series opener in Durban, which the hosts lost by 214 runs, but trained with the team as he completed his rehabilitation from a hamstring injury. &nbsp;With rain set to spoil the first two days, both captains Bavuma and Pat Cummins have deferred from finalising their playing XIs until match day. Bavuma, however, said that Rabada was ‘raring to go’ against his favourite Test opponent in his preferred format.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shubman-gill-personal-net-bowlers-new-zealand-tour-1792240523647">Shubman Gill to pay out of pocket for personal net bowlers for New Zealand tour: Report</a> &nbsp;Against Australia in Tests, Rabada has picked up 58 wickets at 21.39 in 11 outings, including nine wickets in the crucial World Test Championship (WTC) final at Lord’s in June 2025.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Kagiso Rabada, just riveting! 🤩🔥

#Unbreakable #SAvAUS https://t.co/qBhulewpAj&mdash; Proteas Men (@ProteasMenCSA) <a href="https://x.com/ProteasMenCSA/status/2111011477666832807?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 16, 2026</a></blockquote>
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His absence proved vital in the series opener despite express pace Anrich Nortje’s return, who also impressed, as Australian batters enjoyed scoring runs against the Proteas quicks. &nbsp;"The bowlers feed massively off him," said Bavuma. "There's an aura and a lot of belief in KG (Rabada), and that rubs off on the other players." &nbsp;Bavuma also indicated more changes to the playing XI for the must-win game in Gqeberha, with ODI performer Matthew Breetzke and uncapped Marques Ackerman likely to be included in the playing XI alongside Rabada. The hosts have dropped Tristan Stubbs for the second Test, with Ryan Rickelton asked to keep wickets and bat lower down the order in the second Test. &nbsp;"The first innings was where we fell short," he said. “To concede a lead like that on a wicket like that was rather criminal.”<h3>Changes in AUS’s XI for Second Test</h3>The visitors landed the first blow in this three-match Test series, courtesy of Matt Renshaw’s wonder outings at Kingsmead. With his team reeling at 124/6 at one stage, Renshaw powered Australia to 390 with his career-best 190 in the first innings. The left-hander scored 82 in the second innings to keep Australia’s nose in front, and eventually helped them win the Test match. &nbsp;Amid talks around promoting Renshaw up the order, considering he usually opens in red-ball cricket, Cummins revealed that Renshaw is happy to occupy the number five spot. &nbsp;"He just said, 'yep, no worries, whatever the team needs',” Cummins said. &nbsp;While Nic Maddinson is likely to retain his place at the top alongside another makeshift opener Travis Head, Cummins said all-rounder Cameron Green was still unready to play after suffering an abdominal injury in the ODI series against South Africa last month. &nbsp;Meanwhile, Josh Inglis, who broke his finger on the Zimbabwe tour, is ‘close’ to being ready and available for selection.

Kagiso Rabada is set to return for South Africa in the 2nd Test against Australia as captain Temba Bavuma signals team changes. Read the full playing XI updates.

In a massive boost to South Africa, their ace seamer Kagiso Rabada is set to return to the playing XI for the second Test against Australia starting at St George's Park on Sunday (Oct 18), team captain Temba Bavuma said. Rabada missed the series opener in Durban, which the hosts lost by 214 runs, but trained with the team as he completed his rehabilitation from a hamstring injury. With rain set to spoil the first two days, both captains Bavuma and Pat Cummins have deferred from finalising their playing XIs until match day. Bavuma, however, said that Rabada was ‘raring to go’ against his favourite Test opponent in his preferred format. Also read| Shubman Gill to pay out of pocket for personal net bowlers for New Zealand tour: Report Against Australia in Tests, Rabada has picked up 58 wickets at 21.39 in 11 outings, including nine wickets in the crucial World Test Championship (WTC) final at Lord’s in June 2025.

Kagiso Rabada is set to return for South Africa in the 2nd Test against Australia as captain Temba Bavuma signals team changes. Read the full playing XI updates.

SA vs AUS 2nd Test: Kagiso Rabada set to return as Bavuma signals team changes

India is set to tour New Zealand for five T20Is, five ODIs, and two Tests, starting October 22, with three four-day 'A' matches scheduled to start two days later on October 24. With around 50 players picked across all four squads, all eyes will be on the packed tour, which also overlaps with India and ‘A’ matches. &nbsp;With Sony Sports Network owning overseas rights for Indian men’s and women’s cricket, they will also host the India ‘A’ matches scheduled from October 24 to 27, October 31 to November 3, and November 7 to 10. In an unprecedented move, Sony Sports will not only telecast India ‘A’ matches but also produce them, with several Test starters included in the squad. &nbsp;Similar to its coverage of India’s warm-up fixture in Sri Lanka earlier this year, Sony Sports will deliver live action from New Zealand—a Test fortress India last conquered in 2009.&nbsp; &nbsp;While Bert Sutcliffe Oval in Lincoln will host the first and third ‘A’ games, Hagley Oval in Christchurch will be the venue for the second match. With the T20I series and ‘A’ matches coinciding with each other, the Sony Sports Network will televise both games simultaneously.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shubman-gill-personal-net-bowlers-new-zealand-tour-1792240523647">Shubman Gill to pay out of pocket for personal net bowlers for New Zealand tour: Report</a> &nbsp;The ‘A’ and Test matches will start at 03:30 AM IST, whereas the T20Is will get underway at 12:30 PM IST. &nbsp;The five ODI matches will start at 07:30 AM IST.<h3>CoE Staff to Coach India ‘A’ Squad</h3>While India head coach Gautam Gambhir will continue to oversee the main squads during the away New Zealand tour, BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE) staff members, including Hrishikesh Kanitkar (batting coach), Sunil Joshi (spin bowling coach) and Lakshmipathy Balaji (pace bowling coach) will be coaches for the India ‘A’ games. &nbsp;Physio Thulasi and trainer Harrsha will accompany the India ‘A’ squad for the shadow New Zealand tour. &nbsp;India ‘A’ squad for New Zealand series – &nbsp;Dhruv Jurel (captain), Kumar Kushagra, Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Ravichandran Smaran, Devdutt Padikkal, Sai Sudharsan, Manav Suthar, Washington Sundar, Mukesh Choudhary, Yash Rathod, Anshul Kamboj, Auqib Nabi, Akash Deep and Mukesh Kumar

Where to watch India ‘A’ tour of New Zealand live? Get full telecast details, Sony Sports live streaming info, match timings, and CoE coaching setup here.

India is set to tour New Zealand for five T20Is, five ODIs, and two Tests, starting October 22, with three four-day 'A' matches scheduled to start two days later on October 24. With around 50 players picked across all four squads, all eyes will be on the packed tour, which also overlaps with India and ‘A’ matches. With Sony Sports Network owning overseas rights for Indian men’s and women’s cricket, they will also host the India ‘A’ matches scheduled from October 24 to 27, October 31 to November 3, and November 7 to 10. In an unprecedented move, Sony Sports will not only telecast India ‘A’ matches but also produce them, with several Test starters included in the squad. Similar to its coverage of India’s warm-up fixture in Sri Lanka earlier this year, Sony Sports will deliver live action from New Zealand—a Test fortress India last conquered in 2009. While Bert Sutcliffe Oval in Lincoln will host the first and third ‘A’ games, Hagley Oval in Christchurch will be the venue for the second match. With the T20I series and ‘A’ matches coinciding with each other, the Sony Sports Network will televise both games simultaneously. Also read| Shubman Gill to pay out of pocket for personal net bowlers for New Zealand tour: Report The ‘A’ and Test matches will start at 03:30 AM IST, whereas the T20Is will get underway at 12:30 PM IST. The five ODI matches will start at 07:30 AM IST. CoE Staff to Coach India ‘A’ Squad While India head coach Gautam Gambhir will continue to oversee the main squads during the away New Zealand tour, BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE) staff members, including Hrishikesh Kanitkar (batting coach), Sunil Joshi (spin bowling coach) and Lakshmipathy Balaji (pace bowling coach) will be coaches for the India ‘A’ games. Physio Thulasi and trainer Harrsha will accompany the India ‘A’ squad for the shadow New Zealand tour. India ‘A’ squad for New Zealand series – Dhruv Jurel (captain), Kumar Kushagra, Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Ravichandran Smaran, Devdutt Padikkal, Sai Sudharsan, Manav Suthar, Washington Sundar, Mukesh Choudhary, Yash Rathod, Anshul Kamboj, Auqib Nabi, Akash Deep and Mukesh Kumar

Where to watch India ‘A’ tour of New Zealand live? Get full telecast details, Sony Sports live streaming info, match timings, and CoE coaching setup here.

India ‘A’ Tour of New Zealand: Coaching staff announced, live streaming and telecast details inside

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India A NZ Tour: Coaching staff named; live streaming & telecast details inside