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Pakistan has still not confirmed their participation in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026 which starts Feb 7. Pakistan skipper Salman Agha, however, has confirmed that he'll play at number 3 in the ICC tournament - hiting at Pakistan just trying to delay the inevitable. Agha's comments came after he smashed quickfire 39 in the first T20I against Australia. Pakistan went on to win the first of three T20Is by 22 runs. The 2009 T20 World Cup champs are expected to announce their decision to play soon, given the tournament starts in nearly a week's time.<h2>Pak skipper hints at T20 World Cup participation</h2>Salman came to bat number three in the first T20I against Australia on Thursday (Jan 29) and scored handy 39. After the win, Agha confirmed that he'll play at number three for the rest of the series as it gives the team more attacking options and his ability to dominate opposition spinners in the powerplay.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-2026-future-is-always-ice-until-it-isnt-cricket-iceland-withdrawing-from-race-to-replace-pak-takes-shot-at-icc-scotland-1769699167831">Cricket Iceland, withdrawing from race to replace Pak, takes shot at ICC &amp; Scotland</a>"Yes, I'll be batting at No.3 (in the future)," Ali Agha declared. "We expect to face a lot of spin, and I believe I can dominate spin during the Powerplay. That's why I moved up, and that is where I'll stay."<h2>Paksitan coming to play T20 World Cup or not?</h2>After Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Mohsin Naqvi's meeting with Pakistan prime minister Shehbaz Sharif, he had said that the decision would lie with the government. Pakistan, notably, will be playing their matches in Sri Lanka under the agreement with ICC according to which they will not travel to India, co-host of T20 World Cup 2026 with Sri Lanka, and India will be also not travel to Pakistan for the ICC tournaments and their matches will played at a neutral venue. The decision on Pakistan's participation, however, is still pending with the tournament set to begin on Feb 7 and the final scheduled for Mar 8.

Salman came to bat number three in the first T20I against Australia on Thursday (Jan 29) and scored handy 39. After the 22-run win, Agha confirmed that he'll play at number three for the rest of the series as it gives the team more attacking options.

Pakistan has still not confirmed their participation in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026 which starts Feb 7. Pakistan skipper Salman Agha, however, has confirmed that he'll play at number 3 in the ICC tournament - hiting at Pakistan just trying to delay the inevitable. Agha's comments came after he smashed quickfire 39 in the first T20I against Australia. Pakistan went on to win the first of three T20Is by 22 runs. The 2009 T20 World Cup champs are expected to announce their decision to play soon, given the tournament starts in nearly a week's time. Pak skipper hints at T20 World Cup participation Salman came to bat number three in the first T20I against Australia on Thursday (Jan 29) and scored handy 39. After the win, Agha confirmed that he'll play at number three for the rest of the series as it gives the team more attacking options and his ability to dominate opposition spinners in the powerplay. Also Read: Cricket Iceland, withdrawing from race to replace Pak, takes shot at ICC & Scotland "Yes, I'll be batting at No.3 (in the future)," Ali Agha declared. "We expect to face a lot of spin, and I believe I can dominate spin during the Powerplay. That's why I moved up, and that is where I'll stay." Paksitan coming to play T20 World Cup or not? After Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Mohsin Naqvi's meeting with Pakistan prime minister Shehbaz Sharif, he had said that the decision would lie with the government. Pakistan, notably, will be playing their matches in Sri Lanka under the agreement with ICC according to which they will not travel to India, co-host of T20 World Cup 2026 with Sri Lanka, and India will be also not travel to Pakistan for the ICC tournaments and their matches will played at a neutral venue. The decision on Pakistan's participation, however, is still pending with the tournament set to begin on Feb 7 and the final scheduled for Mar 8.

Salman came to bat number three in the first T20I against Australia on Thursday (Jan 29) and scored handy 39. After the 22-run win, Agha confirmed that he'll play at number three for the rest of the series as it gives the team more attacking options.

T20 World Cup 2026 | 'Batting order confirmed before participation': Pak skipper Agha declares he'll bat number 3

From Muttiah Muralitharan to Anil Kumble, here's a look at the top five spinners with most wickets in international cricket. This list also includes Shane Warne, Ravichandran Ashwin and Shakib Al Hasan

From Muttiah Muralitharan to Anil Kumble, here's a look at the top five spinners with most wickets in international cricket. This list also includes Shane Warne, Ravichandran Ashwin and Shakib Al Hasan

Meet top 5 spinners with most international wickets

Bangladesh has found itself in a position of hypocrisy after it recently allowed its shooting team to travel to India, just days after the country’s cricket team refused to tour the same nation, citing safety concerns. This decision ultimately cost Bangladesh a place at the T20 World Cup 2026. The Bangladesh cricket team was dropped from the T20 World Cup, scheduled for India from February 7 to March 8, after the board made it clear that the team would not travel due to security concerns.&nbsp;&nbsp;The International Cricket Council (ICC) rejected Bangladesh’s request to shift their matches to Sri Lanka, stating that independent security reports had cleared India as a safe host and that a late change in schedule was not possible. Bangladesh were replaced by Scotland in the tournament.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/betrayal-or-memory-loss-how-bcci-once-backed-bangladesh-to-gain-test-status-in-2000-1769440768780">Betrayal or memory loss? How BCCI once backed Bangladesh to gain Test status in 2000</a>&nbsp;However, shortly after the ICC’s decision, Bangladesh approved a three-member shooting contingent to compete in the Asian Shooting Championships in New Delhi next month. The squad includes shooter Robiul Islam, his coach Sharmin Akhter and jury member Saima Feroze. The event will be held in the Indian capital from February 2 to 14.&nbsp;The decision has raised questions over the differing standards applied to two national teams travelling to the same country within days of each other. Confirming Bangladesh’s participation, National Rifle Association of India secretary-general Pawan Singh said the process had been underway well in advance.&nbsp;“Bangladesh’s participation was confirmed a month ago. Our applications for clearances for all nations have been in process for almost three months,” Singh was quoted saying to Reuters.&nbsp;Singh added that the Bangladesh contingent did not seek any additional security measures for their stay in India. “The Bangladesh team has come to our tournaments many times, so they know our strict protocols well. Maybe that’s why they are confident and have not made any special requests,” he said.&nbsp;He also highlighted that shooting competitions follow global sporting rules. “We have to follow ISSF norms as a sport and comply with the IOC charter, and as NRAI, we have always received support from the government,” Singh added.&nbsp;The Asian Shooting Confederation, which is organising the championship, has not responded to requests for comment.&nbsp;The contrasting decisions by Bangladesh have labelled the move as double standards, raising serious questions over whether the claimed security threats for the cricket team were real or politically motivated.

Days after refusing to travel to India for the T20 World Cup citing concerns, the Bangladesh shooting team has made a sharp U-turn and is now set to visit India, sparking debate and criticism.

Bangladesh has found itself in a position of hypocrisy after it recently allowed its shooting team to travel to India, just days after the country’s cricket team refused to tour the same nation, citing safety concerns. This decision ultimately cost Bangladesh a place at the T20 World Cup 2026. The Bangladesh cricket team was dropped from the T20 World Cup, scheduled for India from February 7 to March 8, after the board made it clear that the team would not travel due to security concerns. The International Cricket Council (ICC) rejected Bangladesh’s request to shift their matches to Sri Lanka, stating that independent security reports had cleared India as a safe host and that a late change in schedule was not possible. Bangladesh were replaced by Scotland in the tournament. Also read | Betrayal or memory loss? How BCCI once backed Bangladesh to gain Test status in 2000 However, shortly after the ICC’s decision, Bangladesh approved a three-member shooting contingent to compete in the Asian Shooting Championships in New Delhi next month. The squad includes shooter Robiul Islam, his coach Sharmin Akhter and jury member Saima Feroze. The event will be held in the Indian capital from February 2 to 14. The decision has raised questions over the differing standards applied to two national teams travelling to the same country within days of each other. Confirming Bangladesh’s participation, National Rifle Association of India secretary-general Pawan Singh said the process had been underway well in advance. “Bangladesh’s participation was confirmed a month ago. Our applications for clearances for all nations have been in process for almost three months,” Singh was quoted saying to Reuters. Singh added that the Bangladesh contingent did not seek any additional security measures for their stay in India. “The Bangladesh team has come to our tournaments many times, so they know our strict protocols well. Maybe that’s why they are confident and have not made any special requests,” he said. He also highlighted that shooting competitions follow global sporting rules. “We have to follow ISSF norms as a sport and comply with the IOC charter, and as NRAI, we have always received support from the government,” Singh added. The Asian Shooting Confederation, which is organising the championship, has not responded to requests for comment. The contrasting decisions by Bangladesh have labelled the move as double standards, raising serious questions over whether the claimed security threats for the cricket team were real or politically motivated.

Days after refusing to travel to India for the T20 World Cup, citing concerns, the Bangladesh shooting team has made a sharp U-turn and is now set to visit India, sparking debate and criticism.

‘If hypocrisy had a face’: Bangladesh shooting team to visit India days after refusing T20 World Cup travel

A blazing century from Quinton de Kock and a quick half-century from Ryan Rickelton guided South Africa to an easy seven-wicket win over West Indies in the second T20I at Supersport Park in Centurion. With this victory, the Proteas sealed the three-match series. Batting first, West Indies put up a strong total of 221 for four in 20 overs. Shimron Hetmyer was the top scorer with an impressive 75 off 42 balls, hitting eight fours and three sixes. Sherfane Rutherford remained unbeaten on 57, while Brandon King contributed 49 runs, helping their team post a challenging score.&nbsp;For South Africa, Keshav Maharaj was the most successful bowler, picking up two wickets for 22 runs in his four overs. Kagiso Rabada (1/35) and Marco Jansen (1/39) took one wicket each. However, Anrich Nortje had a tough outing, giving away 59 runs in three overs without taking a wicket.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/peers-gadecki-retain-mixed-doubles-crown-at-australian-open-2026-1769745977884">Peers, Gadecki retain mixed doubles crown at Australian Open 2026</a>&nbsp;Chasing 222, South Africa lost their captain Aiden Markram early, as he was dismissed for just 15 runs by Matthew Forde. After that, Quinton de Kock and Ryan Rickelton took control of the chase. De Kock played a sensational knock of 115 runs off just 49 balls, smashing six fours and ten sixes. While, Rickelton supported him well with a quick 77 not out from 36 deliveries, including nine fours and three sixes. The Proteas completed the target with 15 balls to spare.&nbsp;For West Indies, Akeal Hosein claimed two wickets for 41 runs, while Matthew Forde took one for 34. The rest of the bowlers struggled to stop the flow of runs as the Proteas batters dominated the chase.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-didn-t-feel-respected-yuvraj-singh-reveals-reason-behind-his-retirement-1769742180822">'Didn’t feel respected': Yuvraj Singh reveals reason behind his retirement</a>&nbsp;Quinton de Kock was named Player of the Match for his match-winning century. The third and final T20I between South Africa and West Indies will be played on Jan 31 at The Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg.

Quinton de Kock was named Player of the Match for his match-winning century. The third and final T20I between South Africa and West Indies will be played on Jan 31 at The Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg.

A blazing century from Quinton de Kock and a quick half-century from Ryan Rickelton guided South Africa to an easy seven-wicket win over West Indies in the second T20I at Supersport Park in Centurion. With this victory, the Proteas sealed the three-match series. Batting first, West Indies put up a strong total of 221 for four in 20 overs. Shimron Hetmyer was the top scorer with an impressive 75 off 42 balls, hitting eight fours and three sixes. Sherfane Rutherford remained unbeaten on 57, while Brandon King contributed 49 runs, helping their team post a challenging score. For South Africa, Keshav Maharaj was the most successful bowler, picking up two wickets for 22 runs in his four overs. Kagiso Rabada (1/35) and Marco Jansen (1/39) took one wicket each. However, Anrich Nortje had a tough outing, giving away 59 runs in three overs without taking a wicket. Also Read - Peers, Gadecki retain mixed doubles crown at Australian Open 2026 Chasing 222, South Africa lost their captain Aiden Markram early, as he was dismissed for just 15 runs by Matthew Forde. After that, Quinton de Kock and Ryan Rickelton took control of the chase. De Kock played a sensational knock of 115 runs off just 49 balls, smashing six fours and ten sixes. While, Rickelton supported him well with a quick 77 not out from 36 deliveries, including nine fours and three sixes. The Proteas completed the target with 15 balls to spare. For West Indies, Akeal Hosein claimed two wickets for 41 runs, while Matthew Forde took one for 34. The rest of the bowlers struggled to stop the flow of runs as the Proteas batters dominated the chase. Also Read - 'Didn’t feel respected': Yuvraj Singh reveals reason behind his retirement Quinton de Kock was named Player of the Match for his match-winning century. The third and final T20I between South Africa and West Indies will be played on Jan 31 at The Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg.

Quinton de Kock was named Player of the Match for his match-winning century. The third and final T20I between South Africa and West Indies will be played on Jan 31 at The Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg.

SA vs WI, 2nd T20I: De Kock, Rickelton power Proteas to 7-wicket win, seal series

Yuvraj Singh is regarded as one of India’s greatest cricketers and played a crucial role in India’s T20 World Cup triumph in 2007 and the ODI World Cup win in 2011. He was also named Player of the Tournament in 2011 under captain MS Dhoni. However, after battling cancer, his career never returned to the same level and in June 2019, he retired from international cricket after missing out on selection for the World Cup squad. Yuvraj last played for India in an ODI against West Indies in June 2017 and after that, he was not selected again. Nearly seven years after retiring, he has now spoken openly about why he decided to quit and expressed that he felt he was no longer respected or supported, which made him step away from the game.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ex-india-men-s-hockey-team-coach-michael-nobbs-passes-away-after-prolonged-illness-1769706080651">Ex-India hockey team coach Michael Nobbs passes away after prolonged illness</a>&nbsp;While speaking on a podcast with former tennis player Sania Mirza, Yuvraj shared that he kept asking himself why he was playing when he was not enjoying it. He felt mentally and physically exhausted and believed he could not give more. Once he stopped playing, he finally felt like himself again.&nbsp;"I was not enjoying my game. I had a feeling that why am I playing cricket when I'm not enjoying it? I was not feeling supported. I was not feeling respected," Yuvraj said.&nbsp;"And I felt, why do I need to do this when I don't have this? Why am I lingering on to something that I'm not enjoying? Why do I need to play? To prove what? I can't do more than this, mentally or physically, and it was hurting me. And the day I stopped, I was myself again," he added.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wpl-2026-rcb-dent-up-warriorz-s-playoff-hopes-clinch-one-sided-contest-by-eight-wickets-1769712499493">WPL 2026: RCB dent UP Warriorz's Playoff hopes, clinch one-sided contest by eight wickets</a>&nbsp;Yuvraj also spoke about facing doubts earlier in life. He recalled an incident from his teenage years when someone made a comment about his ability. While it did not affect him much, but his father, Yograj Singh was deeply hurt by it.&nbsp;Yuvraj Singh made his India debut in 2000 and went on to serve the national team for 18 years. He represented India in 40 Tests, 304 ODIs and 58 T20Is, scoring 1,900, 8,701 and 1,177 runs respectively. During his time in international cricket, he registered 17 centuries and 71 half-centuries.

Yuvraj Singh will always be remembered as a cricketing hero, but his words show that his retirement was strongly linked to his mental health, not just his performance on the field.

Yuvraj Singh is regarded as one of India’s greatest cricketers and played a crucial role in India’s T20 World Cup triumph in 2007 and the ODI World Cup win in 2011. He was also named Player of the Tournament in 2011 under captain MS Dhoni. However, after battling cancer, his career never returned to the same level and in June 2019, he retired from international cricket after missing out on selection for the World Cup squad. Yuvraj last played for India in an ODI against West Indies in June 2017 and after that, he was not selected again. Nearly seven years after retiring, he has now spoken openly about why he decided to quit and expressed that he felt he was no longer respected or supported, which made him step away from the game. Also Read - Ex-India hockey team coach Michael Nobbs passes away after prolonged illness While speaking on a podcast with former tennis player Sania Mirza, Yuvraj shared that he kept asking himself why he was playing when he was not enjoying it. He felt mentally and physically exhausted and believed he could not give more. Once he stopped playing, he finally felt like himself again. "I was not enjoying my game. I had a feeling that why am I playing cricket when I'm not enjoying it? I was not feeling supported. I was not feeling respected," Yuvraj said. "And I felt, why do I need to do this when I don't have this? Why am I lingering on to something that I'm not enjoying? Why do I need to play? To prove what? I can't do more than this, mentally or physically, and it was hurting me. And the day I stopped, I was myself again," he added. Also Read - WPL 2026: RCB dent UP Warriorz's Playoff hopes, clinch one-sided contest by eight wickets Yuvraj also spoke about facing doubts earlier in life. He recalled an incident from his teenage years when someone made a comment about his ability. While it did not affect him much, but his father, Yograj Singh was deeply hurt by it. Yuvraj Singh made his India debut in 2000 and went on to serve the national team for 18 years. He represented India in 40 Tests, 304 ODIs and 58 T20Is, scoring 1,900, 8,701 and 1,177 runs respectively. During his time in international cricket, he registered 17 centuries and 71 half-centuries.

Yuvraj Singh will always be remembered as a cricketing hero, but his words show that his retirement was strongly linked to his mental health, not just his performance on the field.

'Didn’t feel respected': Yuvraj Singh reveals reason behind his retirement

After suffering two consecutive defeats, Royal Challengers Bengaluru are back to winning ways as they thrashed UP Warriroz by eight wickets in the 18th fixture of the ongoing Women's Premier League (WPL) 2026 season. With this victory, the Mandhana-led Royal Challengers Bengaluru continued to stay at the top with 12 points to their name in eight matches. They have six wins and two losses, with a Net Run Rate of +1.247. Meg Lanning's UP Warriorz are languishing at the bottom of the points table with just four points in seven matches. They have suffered five defeats and secured two wins at a Net Run Rate of -1.146. After being asked to bat first, UP Warriorz were restricted to 143/8 in 20 overs. All-rounder Deepti Sharma and captain Meg Lanning stitched a crucial 74-run stand for the opening wicket for the Warriorz. This was also UP Warriorz's first 50-plus partnership for the first wicket this season. Captain Lanning departed after scoring 41 runs off 30 deliveries, with six fours and one six. Amy Jones had a dismal outing, scoring just one run.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a> Harleen Deol (14) didn't convert her start, whereas Chloe Tryon departed for just six runs. Deepti Sharma completed her half-century in 40 deliveries, which is also the joint-most 50-plus scores for the UP Warriorz alongside Tahila McGrath (4). The all-rounder played a fighting knock of 55 runs off 43 balls, with six fours and one six as UP Warriorz crossed the 140-run mark. For Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Lauren Bell (1/21), Shreyanka Patil (1/27), and Grace Harris (2/22) had decent outings with the ball. The star performer with the ball was Nadine de Klerk, who picked up a four-wicket haul (4/22), which broke the back of the UP Warriorz batting attack after a brilliant opening partnership.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a> Chasing 144 runs, Captain Smriti Mandhana and Grace Harris stitched a match-winning 108-run partnership for the opening wicket. Mandhana also became the joint-most player to be involved in the most century stands in the tournament's history alongside Nat Sciver-Brunt (5). The elite list also includes Meg Lanning (4), Shafali Verma (4), and Hayley Matthews (4). Grace Harris departed after playing a blistering knock of 75 off 37 balls, with 13 fours and two sixes. Royal Challengers Bengaluru chased down the 144-run target in just 13.1 overs. Captain Smriti Mandhana remained unbeaten on 54 off 27 balls, with eight fours and two sixes, as the one-time WPL champion registered a dominating eight-wicket win. For UP Warriorz, Shikha Pandey (1/36) and Asha Sobhana (1/24) were among the wicket-takers.&nbsp;(With Inputs from Agencies)

With this victory, the Mandhana-led Royal Challengers Bengaluru continued to stay at the top with 12 points to their name in eight matches. They have six wins and two losses, with a Net Run Rate of +1.247.

After suffering two consecutive defeats, Royal Challengers Bengaluru are back to winning ways as they thrashed UP Warriroz by eight wickets in the 18th fixture of the ongoing Women's Premier League (WPL) 2026 season. With this victory, the Mandhana-led Royal Challengers Bengaluru continued to stay at the top with 12 points to their name in eight matches. They have six wins and two losses, with a Net Run Rate of +1.247. Meg Lanning's UP Warriorz are languishing at the bottom of the points table with just four points in seven matches. They have suffered five defeats and secured two wins at a Net Run Rate of -1.146. After being asked to bat first, UP Warriorz were restricted to 143/8 in 20 overs. All-rounder Deepti Sharma and captain Meg Lanning stitched a crucial 74-run stand for the opening wicket for the Warriorz. This was also UP Warriorz's first 50-plus partnership for the first wicket this season. Captain Lanning departed after scoring 41 runs off 30 deliveries, with six fours and one six. Amy Jones had a dismal outing, scoring just one run. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds Harleen Deol (14) didn't convert her start, whereas Chloe Tryon departed for just six runs. Deepti Sharma completed her half-century in 40 deliveries, which is also the joint-most 50-plus scores for the UP Warriorz alongside Tahila McGrath (4). The all-rounder played a fighting knock of 55 runs off 43 balls, with six fours and one six as UP Warriorz crossed the 140-run mark. For Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Lauren Bell (1/21), Shreyanka Patil (1/27), and Grace Harris (2/22) had decent outings with the ball. The star performer with the ball was Nadine de Klerk, who picked up a four-wicket haul (4/22), which broke the back of the UP Warriorz batting attack after a brilliant opening partnership. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli Chasing 144 runs, Captain Smriti Mandhana and Grace Harris stitched a match-winning 108-run partnership for the opening wicket. Mandhana also became the joint-most player to be involved in the most century stands in the tournament's history alongside Nat Sciver-Brunt (5). The elite list also includes Meg Lanning (4), Shafali Verma (4), and Hayley Matthews (4). Grace Harris departed after playing a blistering knock of 75 off 37 balls, with 13 fours and two sixes. Royal Challengers Bengaluru chased down the 144-run target in just 13.1 overs. Captain Smriti Mandhana remained unbeaten on 54 off 27 balls, with eight fours and two sixes, as the one-time WPL champion registered a dominating eight-wicket win. For UP Warriorz, Shikha Pandey (1/36) and Asha Sobhana (1/24) were among the wicket-takers. (With Inputs from Agencies)

With this victory, the Mandhana-led Royal Challengers Bengaluru continued to stay at the top with 12 points to their name in eight matches. They have six wins and two losses, with a Net Run Rate of +1.247.

WPL 2026: RCB dent UP Warriorz's Playoff hopes, clinch one-sided contest by eight wickets

Cricket Iceland has once again come up with a tounge-in-cheek post on social media platform X about replacing Pakistan in upcoming T20 World Cup 2026. Amid the uncertainty over Pakistan's participation in the tournament after Bangladesh's ouster, Iceland had offered itself as a potential replacement in place of Pakistan. In their latest post, however, Cricket Iceland has declared their unavailablity to participate in the ICC tournament, citing shortage of time for preparation given their players coming from 'all walks of life.'<h2>Iceland replacing Pakistan in T20 World Cup 2026?</h2>Declaring their unavailability to replace Pakistan for the T20 World Cup 2026 with 'a heavy heart,' Cricket Iceland wrote: “Regardless of whether they now withdraw, the short timescales ensure it is impossible for our squad to prepare in the professional manner necessary to compete effectively in this global cricketing spectacle.”Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-2026-fixing-contriving-to-fix-icc-suspends-usa-batter-aaron-jones-for-corruption-related-charges-1769671506297">ICC suspends USA's Aaron Jones for corruption related charges</a>The witty post also took a dig at Scotland, which has replaced Bangladesh in the tournament, but failed to get a kit sponsor. Mocking Scotland, Cricket Iceland wrote: "We are not like Scotland and able to turn up on a whim, with no kit sponsor. Our players are from all walks of life and cannot simply drop their occupations to fly halfway around the world to experience temperatures only normally felt in Finnish saunas."They post also included details about the various jobs their players do when not playing cricket before signing off with a heartmelting hopeful signature: "The future is always ice, until it isn’t. Yours sincerely, Icelandic Cricket Association." Read the full post below:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Dear <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ICC</a>, It is with a heavy heart that we now announce our unavailability to replace Pakistan in the upcoming T20 World Cup. Regardless of whether they now withdraw, the short timescales ensure it is impossible for our squad to prepare in the professional manner necessary to…&mdash; Iceland Cricket (@icelandcricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/icelandcricket/status/2016783371691839704?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Paksitan coming to play T20 World Cup or not?</h2>After Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Mohsin Naqvi's meeting with Pakistan prime minister Shehbaz Sharif, he had said that the decision would lie with the government. Pakistan, notably, will be playing their matches in Sri Lanka under the agreement with ICC according to which they will not travel to India, co-host of T20 World Cup 2026 with Sri Lanka, and India will be also not travel to Pakistan for the ICC tournaments and their matches will played at a neutral venue. The decision on Pakistan's participation, however, is still pending with the tournament set to begin on Feb 7 and the final scheduled for Mar 8.&nbsp;

Declaring their unavailability to replace Pakistan for the T20 World Cup 2026 with 'a heavy heart,' Cricket Iceland says ‘short timescales ensure it is impossible’ even if Pakistan withdraw now.

Cricket Iceland has once again come up with a tounge-in-cheek post on social media platform X about replacing Pakistan in upcoming T20 World Cup 2026. Amid the uncertainty over Pakistan's participation in the tournament after Bangladesh's ouster, Iceland had offered itself as a potential replacement in place of Pakistan. In their latest post, however, Cricket Iceland has declared their unavailablity to participate in the ICC tournament, citing shortage of time for preparation given their players coming from 'all walks of life.' Iceland replacing Pakistan in T20 World Cup 2026? Declaring their unavailability to replace Pakistan for the T20 World Cup 2026 with 'a heavy heart,' Cricket Iceland wrote: “Regardless of whether they now withdraw, the short timescales ensure it is impossible for our squad to prepare in the professional manner necessary to compete effectively in this global cricketing spectacle.” Also Read: ICC suspends USA's Aaron Jones for corruption related charges The witty post also took a dig at Scotland, which has replaced Bangladesh in the tournament, but failed to get a kit sponsor. Mocking Scotland, Cricket Iceland wrote: "We are not like Scotland and able to turn up on a whim, with no kit sponsor. Our players are from all walks of life and cannot simply drop their occupations to fly halfway around the world to experience temperatures only normally felt in Finnish saunas." They post also included details about the various jobs their players do when not playing cricket before signing off with a heartmelting hopeful signature: "The future is always ice, until it isn’t. Yours sincerely, Icelandic Cricket Association." Read the full post below:

Declaring their unavailability to replace Pakistan for the T20 World Cup 2026 with 'a heavy heart,' Cricket Iceland says ‘short timescales ensure it is impossible’ even if Pakistan withdraw now.

T20 WC 2026 | 'Future is always ice, until it isn’t': Cricket Iceland, withdrawing from race to replace Pak, takes shot at ICC & Scotland

Pakistan made a winning start in the ongoing three-match T20I series against Australia as the hosts won by 22 runs. Playing at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, Pakistan, batters Saim Ayub and Salman Agha were the stars of the day as Australia were left flat. The win in Lahore means Pakistan lead 1-0 in the series with matches scheduled for Saturday and Sunday.<h2>Pakistan edge Australia</h2>With hype surrounding Pakistan’s potential pullout from the T20 World Cup, the hosts made a poor start as they lost Sahibzada Farhan on the first ball of the series. The poor start, though, did not affect Pakistan’s confidence, as Ayub (40) and Agha (39) stitched a stand of 74 runs for the second wicket. However, their partnership did not last long, with Adam Zampa scalping back-to-back wickets of the duo. Pakistan’s middle order made a decent contribution with Babar Azam (24), Usman Khan (18) and Mohammad Nawaz (15) amongst runs.&nbsp;Zampa was the pick of the bowlers for Australia as he bagged four wickets, while Mahli Beardman and Xavier Bartlett also ended with two wickets each.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a><h2>What happened in Australia innings?</h2>Chasing 169, Australia started the proceedings with an aggressive intent but quickly unravelled against Pakistan's disciplined spin attack. While Travis Head provided a brisk start with 23 off 13 balls, he fell to the spin of Saim Ayub (2/29 in 3 overs), who proved to be a surprise weapon by picking up two early wickets. Cameron Green (36 runs off 31 balls) tried to anchor one end while wickets tumbled around him and the required run rate continued to climb.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;The Australian middle order, missing several veteran stars like Tim David and Glenn Maxwell, struggled to cope with Pakistan's spin attack. Abrar Ahmed (2/10 in 4 overs) was the standout performer with the ball, claiming two wickets (Cooper Connolly and Josh Philippe), effectively breaking the back of the Australian chase.&nbsp;Mohammad Nawaz provided the decisive blow by dismissing Green, leaving the visitors in deep trouble at 96/6 in 12.2 overs. While the Australian tail, led by Xavier Bartlett (unbeaten 34 off 25), tried defiantly, Australia ultimately finished their 20 overs at 146/8, handing Pakistan a comfortable 22-run victory to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

Playing at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, Pakistan, batters Saim Ayub and Salman Agha were the stars of the day as Australia were left flat. 

Pakistan made a winning start in the ongoing three-match T20I series against Australia as the hosts won by 22 runs. Playing at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, Pakistan, batters Saim Ayub and Salman Agha were the stars of the day as Australia were left flat. The win in Lahore means Pakistan lead 1-0 in the series with matches scheduled for Saturday and Sunday. Pakistan edge Australia With hype surrounding Pakistan’s potential pullout from the T20 World Cup, the hosts made a poor start as they lost Sahibzada Farhan on the first ball of the series. The poor start, though, did not affect Pakistan’s confidence, as Ayub (40) and Agha (39) stitched a stand of 74 runs for the second wicket. However, their partnership did not last long, with Adam Zampa scalping back-to-back wickets of the duo. Pakistan’s middle order made a decent contribution with Babar Azam (24), Usman Khan (18) and Mohammad Nawaz (15) amongst runs. Zampa was the pick of the bowlers for Australia as he bagged four wickets, while Mahli Beardman and Xavier Bartlett also ended with two wickets each. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds What happened in Australia innings? Chasing 169, Australia started the proceedings with an aggressive intent but quickly unravelled against Pakistan's disciplined spin attack. While Travis Head provided a brisk start with 23 off 13 balls, he fell to the spin of Saim Ayub (2/29 in 3 overs), who proved to be a surprise weapon by picking up two early wickets. Cameron Green (36 runs off 31 balls) tried to anchor one end while wickets tumbled around him and the required run rate continued to climb. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli The Australian middle order, missing several veteran stars like Tim David and Glenn Maxwell, struggled to cope with Pakistan's spin attack. Abrar Ahmed (2/10 in 4 overs) was the standout performer with the ball, claiming two wickets (Cooper Connolly and Josh Philippe), effectively breaking the back of the Australian chase. Mohammad Nawaz provided the decisive blow by dismissing Green, leaving the visitors in deep trouble at 96/6 in 12.2 overs. While the Australian tail, led by Xavier Bartlett (unbeaten 34 off 25), tried defiantly, Australia ultimately finished their 20 overs at 146/8, handing Pakistan a comfortable 22-run victory to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

Playing at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, Pakistan, batters Saim Ayub and Salman Agha were the stars of the day as Australia were left flat.&nbsp;

PAK vs AUS: Pakistan edge Australia in T20I series opener; Saim Ayub, Salman Agha shine with bat

India batter Ajinkya Rahane has shut down Pakistan’s claim of boycotting the 2026 T20 World Cup after reports of the same emerged earlier in the week. Pakistan, winners of the 2009 T20 World Cup, have threatened to boycott the competition, with Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi stating his team is yet to receive a final green light from the government over participation in the tournament. However, Rahane reckons Pakistan don’t have the guts to pull out of the T20 World Cup, which starts on Feb 7.<h2>Rahane shuts Pakistan’s calls for boycott</h2>“I don't think they can do that. I don't think they have, am I allowed to say, guts? Yeah, I don't think they can do that. They are going to come,” Rahane said on Cricbuzz.&nbsp;After the International Cricket Council (ICC) rejected Bangladesh Cricket Board's (BCB) request to move out their matches from India, Pakistan has threatened a boycott in support of the latter. Bangladesh tried to have their matches moved out of India due to security fears, but the ICC rejected the request. An angry Bangladesh then withdrew from the tournament, and Scotland were drafted in as their replacement.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;Reports in Pakistan media have also suggested that the 2009 champions could boycott the India match rather than the entire tournament. However, any such decisions could come as a huge consequence for PCB, with ICC ready to axe them from future tournaments and canceling Non Obligation Certificate (NOC) of foreign players to play in the Pakistan Super League (PSL).&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a><h2>When is the India vs Pakistan clash?</h2>According to an agreement between the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the International Cricket Council (ICC), all India vs Pakistan matches will be played at a neutral venue in case either nation is a designated host. As things stand, the India vs Pakistan contest in the T20 World Cup 2026 is scheduled to take place in Colombo on February 15.

India vs Pakistan contest in the T20 World Cup 2026 is scheduled to take place in Colombo on February 15. Ajinkya Rahane reckons Pakistan don’t have the guts to pull out of the T20 World Cup, which starts on Feb 7.

India batter Ajinkya Rahane has shut down Pakistan’s claim of boycotting the 2026 T20 World Cup after reports of the same emerged earlier in the week. Pakistan, winners of the 2009 T20 World Cup, have threatened to boycott the competition, with Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi stating his team is yet to receive a final green light from the government over participation in the tournament. However, Rahane reckons Pakistan don’t have the guts to pull out of the T20 World Cup, which starts on Feb 7. Rahane shuts Pakistan’s calls for boycott “I don't think they can do that. I don't think they have, am I allowed to say, guts? Yeah, I don't think they can do that. They are going to come,” Rahane said on Cricbuzz. After the International Cricket Council (ICC) rejected Bangladesh Cricket Board's (BCB) request to move out their matches from India, Pakistan has threatened a boycott in support of the latter. Bangladesh tried to have their matches moved out of India due to security fears, but the ICC rejected the request. An angry Bangladesh then withdrew from the tournament, and Scotland were drafted in as their replacement. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli Reports in Pakistan media have also suggested that the 2009 champions could boycott the India match rather than the entire tournament. However, any such decisions could come as a huge consequence for PCB, with ICC ready to axe them from future tournaments and canceling Non Obligation Certificate (NOC) of foreign players to play in the Pakistan Super League (PSL). ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds When is the India vs Pakistan clash? According to an agreement between the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the International Cricket Council (ICC), all India vs Pakistan matches will be played at a neutral venue in case either nation is a designated host. As things stand, the India vs Pakistan contest in the T20 World Cup 2026 is scheduled to take place in Colombo on February 15.

India vs Pakistan contest in the T20 World Cup 2026 is scheduled to take place in Colombo on February 15. Ajinkya Rahane reckons Pakistan don’t have the guts to pull out of the T20 World Cup, which starts on Feb 7.

T20 World Cup 2026: Ajinkya Rahane shuts down Pakistan's boycott call, says 'I don't think they have...'

The Sri Lankan government has added an extra layer of security to the upcoming T20 World Cup, as it unofficially co-hosts the tournament with India. The T20 World Cup, set to start on February 7, will host all matches for Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and Australia (group stage only). With India vs Pakistan also on the cards, the Sri Lankan government will deploy elite armed units to avoid any lapse in security measures.<h2>Sri Lanka to deploy elite armed units</h2>Sri Lanka has given the "highest priority" to ensuring the tournament runs smoothly and is "paying special attention to the India-Pakistan matches", sports minister Sunil Kumara Gamage told AFP late Wednesday.&nbsp;According to an agreement between the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the International Cricket Council (ICC), all India vs Pakistan matches will be played at a neutral venue in case either nation is a designated host. As things stand, the India vs Pakistan contest in the T20 World Cup 2026 is scheduled to take place in Colombo on February 15. To avoid any security lapses, the Sri Lankan government has given topmost priority to the safety of players, officials and fans.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;Elite commando units, usually assigned to guard visiting heads of state, will be deployed to protect all participating teams, police and security officials said.&nbsp;“From the time they step out of the airport till they return to their aircraft, they will be protected by armed guards,” an official said, asking not to be named.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a>&nbsp;India and Pakistan have previously refused to travel across the border for sporting events, opting to play on neutral ground via a hybrid model instead. Hence, for the T20 World Cup, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has shifted their matches to Sri Lanka.&nbsp;Bangladesh also tried to have their matches moved out of India due to security fears, but the ICC rejected the request. An angry Bangladesh then withdrew from the tournament, and Scotland were drafted in as their replacement.&nbsp;(With inputs from Agencies)&nbsp;

The India vs Pakistan contest in the T20 World Cup 2026 is scheduled to take place in Colombo on February 15. To avoid any security lapses, the Sri Lankan government has given topmost priority to the safety of players, officials and fans.

The Sri Lankan government has added an extra layer of security to the upcoming T20 World Cup, as it unofficially co-hosts the tournament with India. The T20 World Cup, set to start on February 7, will host all matches for Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and Australia (group stage only). With India vs Pakistan also on the cards, the Sri Lankan government will deploy elite armed units to avoid any lapse in security measures. Sri Lanka to deploy elite armed units Sri Lanka has given the "highest priority" to ensuring the tournament runs smoothly and is "paying special attention to the India-Pakistan matches", sports minister Sunil Kumara Gamage told AFP late Wednesday. According to an agreement between the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the International Cricket Council (ICC), all India vs Pakistan matches will be played at a neutral venue in case either nation is a designated host. As things stand, the India vs Pakistan contest in the T20 World Cup 2026 is scheduled to take place in Colombo on February 15. To avoid any security lapses, the Sri Lankan government has given topmost priority to the safety of players, officials and fans. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli Elite commando units, usually assigned to guard visiting heads of state, will be deployed to protect all participating teams, police and security officials said. “From the time they step out of the airport till they return to their aircraft, they will be protected by armed guards,” an official said, asking not to be named. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds India and Pakistan have previously refused to travel across the border for sporting events, opting to play on neutral ground via a hybrid model instead. Hence, for the T20 World Cup, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has shifted their matches to Sri Lanka. Bangladesh also tried to have their matches moved out of India due to security fears, but the ICC rejected the request. An angry Bangladesh then withdrew from the tournament, and Scotland were drafted in as their replacement. (With inputs from Agencies)

The India vs Pakistan contest in the T20 World Cup 2026 is scheduled to take place in Colombo on February 15. To avoid any security lapses, the Sri Lankan government has given topmost priority to the safety of players, officials and fans.

T20 World Cup 2026: Sri Lanka deploys elite armed units in major security boost; eyes on IND vs PAK tie

Australia has named Sophie Molineux successor of outgoing Alyssa Healy as all-format women's team captain. Molineux wil take charge during the home T20I series of upcoming India's tour. She will then make way for Healy who will lead the side in her farewell ODI series as well as the solitary Test in Perth. Molineux will then take over as captain across formats including in the T20 World Cup in June later this year. Cricket Australia has also kept Tahlia McGrath as the vice-captain and named Ashleigh Gardner as the second deputy to Molineux as well.<h2>Why Sophie Molineux was chosen as Australia women's team captain?</h2>Molineux, a 28-year-old spinner from Victoria, edged the likes of McGrath and Gardner for the captain's role. Her success as the Melbourne Renegades captain in Women's Big Bash League (WBBL) in which she led the side to drought-breaking title in 2024-25 is the major reason for her elevation as the captain.<h2>Is Molineux a good choice as Australia women's captain?</h2>Molineux is certainly an interesting choice as captain, given her injury history. The spinner has not played T20I or a Test match since 2024 because of an injured knee and was managed in the recently-concluded ODI World Cup as well. She also did not play in all the matches in WBBL for the Renegades in the most recent season.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-2026-fixing-contriving-to-fix-icc-suspends-usa-batter-aaron-jones-for-corruption-related-charges-1769671506297">'Fixing, contriving to fix...': ICC suspends USA batter Aaron Jones for corruption related charges</a>Australia's national selector Shawn Flegler, however, backed Molineux as the right choice despite confirming that she'll be managed in the future as well,"We will continue to manage Sophie's workload, prioritising key tournaments and major international series following injury challenges in recent seasons. Ash and Tahlia provide complimentary skills in support of Sophie and are also both capable of leading the team as stand-in captain if required," said Flegler.<h2>Molienux record for Australia</h2>The spinner, given her injury history, has played only three Tests, 17 ODIs, and 38 T20Is for Australia. She has taken 7 Test wickets, 31 in WODIs and 41 T20I wickets in her career. In WBBL, Molineux has played 112 matches for Renegades, taking 97 wickets. In Women's Premier League (WPL), she played 10 matches for RCB-W in 2023/24 season and took 12 wickets.

Molineux, a 28-year-old spinner from Victoria, is certainly an interesting choice as captain, given her injury history. The spinner has not played T20I or a Test match since 2024 because of an injured knee and was managed in the recently-concluded ODI World Cup as well.

Australia has named Sophie Molineux successor of outgoing Alyssa Healy as all-format women's team captain. Molineux wil take charge during the home T20I series of upcoming India's tour. She will then make way for Healy who will lead the side in her farewell ODI series as well as the solitary Test in Perth. Molineux will then take over as captain across formats including in the T20 World Cup in June later this year. Cricket Australia has also kept Tahlia McGrath as the vice-captain and named Ashleigh Gardner as the second deputy to Molineux as well. Why Sophie Molineux was chosen as Australia women's team captain? Molineux, a 28-year-old spinner from Victoria, edged the likes of McGrath and Gardner for the captain's role. Her success as the Melbourne Renegades captain in Women's Big Bash League (WBBL) in which she led the side to drought-breaking title in 2024-25 is the major reason for her elevation as the captain. Is Molineux a good choice as Australia women's captain? Molineux is certainly an interesting choice as captain, given her injury history. The spinner has not played T20I or a Test match since 2024 because of an injured knee and was managed in the recently-concluded ODI World Cup as well. She also did not play in all the matches in WBBL for the Renegades in the most recent season. Also Read: 'Fixing, contriving to fix...': ICC suspends USA batter Aaron Jones for corruption related charges Australia's national selector Shawn Flegler, however, backed Molineux as the right choice despite confirming that she'll be managed in the future as well, "We will continue to manage Sophie's workload, prioritising key tournaments and major international series following injury challenges in recent seasons. Ash and Tahlia provide complimentary skills in support of Sophie and are also both capable of leading the team as stand-in captain if required," said Flegler. Molienux record for Australia The spinner, given her injury history, has played only three Tests, 17 ODIs, and 38 T20Is for Australia. She has taken 7 Test wickets, 31 in WODIs and 41 T20I wickets in her career. In WBBL, Molineux has played 112 matches for Renegades, taking 97 wickets. In Women's Premier League (WPL), she played 10 matches for RCB-W in 2023/24 season and took 12 wickets.

Molineux, a 28-year-old spinner from Victoria, is certainly an interesting choice as captain, given her injury history. The spinner has not played T20I or a Test match since 2024 because of an injured knee and was managed in the recently-concluded ODI World Cup as well.

No T20I or Test since 2024: Sophie Molieneux succeeds Alyssa Healy as new Australia women's captain

In a blow to USA's T20 World Cup 2026 hopes, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has suspended batter Aaron Jones for corrpution related charges including fixing or trying to match fix. The decision was announced on Wednesday (Jan 28) in an ICC statement, rendeding Jones ineligible for participation in the upcoming T20 World Cup scheduled from Feb 7 to Mar 8 in India and Sri Lanka. The charges against Jones stemmed from his participation in Bim10 tournament in Barbados in 2023-24 which falls under the jurisdiction of Cricket West Indies (CWI).<h2>USA batter Aaron Jones suspended - what did he do and what are the charges against him?</h2>As per the ICC, Jones was found in breach on on five account for ICC's Anti-Corrpution code. While his charges are mainly from Bim10 tournament, two of them are also for international matches as well. Below is the list of charges against Jones:<ul><li>Breach of Article 2.1.1 of the CWI Code - Fixing, contriving to fix or otherwise influencing improperly, or being a party to an agreement or effort to fix or contrive in any way or otherwise influence improperly, the result, progress, conduct or other aspect of matches in the Bim10 tournament in 2023/24 (or attempting to do so).</li><li>Breach of Article 2.4.2 of the CWI Code - Failing to disclose to Cricket West Indies details of any approaches or invitations to engage in conduct that would amount to a breach of the CWI Code.</li><li>Breach of Article 2.4.4 of the CWI Code - Failing or refusing to cooperate with a reasonable investigation carried out by the Designated Anti-Corruption Official (or his/her designee) in relation to possible offences under the CWI Code.</li><li>Breach of Article 2.4.4 of the ICC Code - Failing to disclose to the ICC ACU full details of any approaches or invitations received to engage in Corrupt Conduct under the ICC Code.</li><li>Breach of Article 2.4.7 of the ICC Code - Obstructing the ACU's investigation into possible Corrupt Conduct by concealing and/or tampering with information that may have been relevant to the investigation, or which may have constituted evidence or led to the discovery of evidence of Corrupt Conduct.</li></ul><h2>What next for Aaron Jones?</h2>While the ICC has suspended Jones from playing cricket immediately, he has 14 days to respond to the charges. The USA has not yet announced their squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup but Jones, who is in Sri Lanka as one of the 18 players, is unlikely to make the cut. The ICC also said that the investigation is still on and more personnel will be named in due course.The charges against Jones are "part of a wider investigation which is likely to result in further charges being issued against other participants in due course," read the ICC statement.<h2>Aaron Jones cricket career highlights</h2>Jones made his debut for USA in 2019 and has played 52 ODIs as well as 48 T20Is, scoring 1,664 and 770 runs, respectively. He is most famous for scoring 94 off just 40 balls against Canada in T20 World Cup and 36 not out off 26 balls against Pakistan in USA's famnous victory in the same tournament. In franchise cricket, Jones has played for USA-based Major League Cricket (MLC), Caribbean Premier League (CPL), and Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) as well. He last played international cricket in April 2025.

As per the ICC, Jones was found in breach on on five account for ICC's Anti-Corrpution code and has 14 days to respond. The USA has not yet announced their squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup but Jones, who is in Sri Lanka as one of the 18 players, is unlikely to make the cut.

In a blow to USA's T20 World Cup 2026 hopes, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has suspended batter Aaron Jones for corrpution related charges including fixing or trying to match fix. The decision was announced on Wednesday (Jan 28) in an ICC statement, rendeding Jones ineligible for participation in the upcoming T20 World Cup scheduled from Feb 7 to Mar 8 in India and Sri Lanka. The charges against Jones stemmed from his participation in Bim10 tournament in Barbados in 2023-24 which falls under the jurisdiction of Cricket West Indies (CWI). USA batter Aaron Jones suspended - what did he do and what are the charges against him? As per the ICC, Jones was found in breach on on five account for ICC's Anti-Corrpution code. While his charges are mainly from Bim10 tournament, two of them are also for international matches as well. Below is the list of charges against Jones: Breach of Article 2.1.1 of the CWI Code - Fixing, contriving to fix or otherwise influencing improperly, or being a party to an agreement or effort to fix or contrive in any way or otherwise influence improperly, the result, progress, conduct or other aspect of matches in the Bim10 tournament in 2023/24 (or attempting to do so). Breach of Article 2.4.2 of the CWI Code - Failing to disclose to Cricket West Indies details of any approaches or invitations to engage in conduct that would amount to a breach of the CWI Code. Breach of Article 2.4.4 of the CWI Code - Failing or refusing to cooperate with a reasonable investigation carried out by the Designated Anti-Corruption Official (or his/her designee) in relation to possible offences under the CWI Code. Breach of Article 2.4.4 of the ICC Code - Failing to disclose to the ICC ACU full details of any approaches or invitations received to engage in Corrupt Conduct under the ICC Code. Breach of Article 2.4.7 of the ICC Code - Obstructing the ACU's investigation into possible Corrupt Conduct by concealing and/or tampering with information that may have been relevant to the investigation, or which may have constituted evidence or led to the discovery of evidence of Corrupt Conduct. What next for Aaron Jones? While the ICC has suspended Jones from playing cricket immediately, he has 14 days to respond to the charges. The USA has not yet announced their squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup but Jones, who is in Sri Lanka as one of the 18 players, is unlikely to make the cut. The ICC also said that the investigation is still on and more personnel will be named in due course. The charges against Jones are "part of a wider investigation which is likely to result in further charges being issued against other participants in due course," read the ICC statement. Aaron Jones cricket career highlights Jones made his debut for USA in 2019 and has played 52 ODIs as well as 48 T20Is, scoring 1,664 and 770 runs, respectively. He is most famous for scoring 94 off just 40 balls against Canada in T20 World Cup and 36 not out off 26 balls against Pakistan in USA's famnous victory in the same tournament. In franchise cricket, Jones has played for USA-based Major League Cricket (MLC), Caribbean Premier League (CPL), and Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) as well. He last played international cricket in April 2025.

As per the ICC, Jones was found in breach on on five account for ICC's Anti-Corrpution code and has 14 days to respond. The USA has not yet announced their squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup but Jones, who is in Sri Lanka as one of the 18 players, is unlikely to make the cut.

'Fixing, contriving to fix...': ICC suspends USA batter Aaron Jones for corruption related charges

New Zealand finally broke the duck in the ongoing T20I series against India as they got the better of the Men in Blue in the fourth contest in Vizag on Wednesday (Jan 28). Riding on an excellent batting display followed by a good bowling attack saw the BlackCaps emerge victorious by 50 runs despite Shivam Dube’s 65-run knock. The means New Zealand have restored pride with a win while India still lead the series 3-1 with one match to go.<h2>New Zealand floor India</h2>Having already won the series, India did not hold back and were tasked to chase 216 runs to win. However, like every other match in the series, India made a poor start to their innings, losing Abhishek Sharma on the first ball. India would quickly lose captain Suryakumar Yadav (8) before Sanju Samson (24) and Rinku Singh (39) played their part in stabilising the innings. However, quick wickets once again derailed India’s chase as they lost Samson and Rinku in close proximity.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;Samson’s 24-run knock made him no favours as his poor form continues ahead of the T20 World Cup, which starts on Feb 7. India were 82/5 at one stage before Shivam Dube’s batting onslaught started. Dube scored his fifty in mere 15 balls, keeping India in the contest. Dube and Harshit Rana (9) stitched a stand of 63 runs in 27 balls before the former was dismissed through an unfortunate run out.&nbsp;India would eventually lose wickets in tandem before the hosts were folded for 165 in 18.4 overs. Dube’s quickfire fifty did no favours to the Indian team as they lost by 50 runs.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a><h2>What happened in New Zealand innings?</h2>Having been put to bat first, New Zealand's opening pair of Devon Conway (44) and Tim Seifert (62) stitched a stand of 100 runs to build momentum. Glenn Phillips (24) and Daryl Mitchell (39) scored valuable runs as New Zealand made efforts to reach 200. Useful knocks from Zakary Foulkes (13) and captain Mitchell Santner (11) helped the BlackCaps reach 215/7 in their 20 overs.&nbsp;Arshdeep Singh and Kuldeep Yadav both bagged two wickets each for India, with Ravi Bishnoi and Jasprit Bumrah also amongst the wickets.&nbsp;The two nations now meet in the final T20I on Saturday (Jan 31) at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram with India already leading 3-1 in the series.

Riding on an excellent batting display followed by a good bowling attack saw the BlackCaps emerge victorious by 50 runs in the fourth T20I despite Shivam Dube’s 65-run knock. 

New Zealand finally broke the duck in the ongoing T20I series against India as they got the better of the Men in Blue in the fourth contest in Vizag on Wednesday (Jan 28). Riding on an excellent batting display followed by a good bowling attack saw the BlackCaps emerge victorious by 50 runs despite Shivam Dube’s 65-run knock. The means New Zealand have restored pride with a win while India still lead the series 3-1 with one match to go. New Zealand floor India Having already won the series, India did not hold back and were tasked to chase 216 runs to win. However, like every other match in the series, India made a poor start to their innings, losing Abhishek Sharma on the first ball. India would quickly lose captain Suryakumar Yadav (8) before Sanju Samson (24) and Rinku Singh (39) played their part in stabilising the innings. However, quick wickets once again derailed India’s chase as they lost Samson and Rinku in close proximity. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli Samson’s 24-run knock made him no favours as his poor form continues ahead of the T20 World Cup, which starts on Feb 7. India were 82/5 at one stage before Shivam Dube’s batting onslaught started. Dube scored his fifty in mere 15 balls, keeping India in the contest. Dube and Harshit Rana (9) stitched a stand of 63 runs in 27 balls before the former was dismissed through an unfortunate run out. India would eventually lose wickets in tandem before the hosts were folded for 165 in 18.4 overs. Dube’s quickfire fifty did no favours to the Indian team as they lost by 50 runs. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds What happened in New Zealand innings? Having been put to bat first, New Zealand's opening pair of Devon Conway (44) and Tim Seifert (62) stitched a stand of 100 runs to build momentum. Glenn Phillips (24) and Daryl Mitchell (39) scored valuable runs as New Zealand made efforts to reach 200. Useful knocks from Zakary Foulkes (13) and captain Mitchell Santner (11) helped the BlackCaps reach 215/7 in their 20 overs. Arshdeep Singh and Kuldeep Yadav both bagged two wickets each for India, with Ravi Bishnoi and Jasprit Bumrah also amongst the wickets. The two nations now meet in the final T20I on Saturday (Jan 31) at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram with India already leading 3-1 in the series.

Riding on an excellent batting display followed by a good bowling attack saw the BlackCaps emerge victorious by 50 runs in the fourth T20I despite Shivam Dube’s 65-run knock.&nbsp;

IND vs NZ: New Zealand floor India in dead-rubber Vizag contest; Dube shines, Samson fails again

From Abhishek Sharma to Shivam Dube here is a look at five Indian batters with fastest fifties in the ongoing IND vs NZ T20I series. The honourable list consists of names like Shivam Dube and skipper Suryakumar Yadav. 

From Abhishek Sharma to Shivam Dube here is a look at five Indian batters with fastest fifties in the ongoing IND vs NZ T20I series. The honourable list consists of names like Shivam Dube and skipper Suryakumar Yadav.&nbsp;

From Abhishek Sharma to Shivam Dube, 5 Indian batters with fastest fifties in IND vs NZ T20I series

It was yet another season and yet another success for SunRisers Eastern Cape as they lifted their third SA20 title with a thrilling win over Pretoria Capitals on Sunday (Jan 25). The six-wicket win was their third success since the competition started. The SA20, which already has a dedicated set of fans, could expand in the future with the league set to enter a new cycle from 2028. However, expanding the league from six to eight teams will come with a set of challenges.<h2>Smith opens up on SA20 expansion</h2>Speaking on the same, SA20 Commissioner and former South Africa captain Graeme Smith opened up on the challenges. According to him, the league won’t expand until 2028 as per current commitments, but doing so in the future will come up with a certain set of challenges. Smith reckons that expanding teams will require a larger pool of homegrown players.&nbsp;"If teams expand, tournaments would be longer, so scheduling with Cricket South Africa’s Future Tours Program is crucial," Smith explained in the post-season press meet.&nbsp;"From 2027, the cycle shifts and expansion means adding 25-30 more South African cricketers. Maintaining league competitiveness is key as you consider these changes.&nbsp;“These are things and which venues do you go to, and then obviously the investors. We do get approached by potential investors that are interested, but it's a whole complex thing that needs to be. Once Cricket South Africa and our shareholders decide what they want to do, then we've got to do the work,” Smith added.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a><h2>SunRisers emerge victorious</h2>Sunrisers Eastern Cape clinched their third SA20 title in four seasons with a memorable six-wicket victory over Pretoria Capitals (PC) at Newlands, overcoming early trouble to chase down 159 with four balls to spare after batting heroics from Matthew Breetzke and captain Tristan Stubbs.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;After being put into bat by the captain, Pretoria Capitals were lifted by a brilliant century from Dewald Brevis, who scored 101 off 56 balls, including eight fours and seven sixes, and carried his side to 158 for 7 after they had lost two wickets for just one run on the board early on. Brevis stitched a 96-run partnership with Bryce Parsons and struck the majority of the boundaries in the innings, but received little support from the rest of the lineup.&nbsp;However, Brevis’s efforts went in vain with SunRisers lifting their third title in&nbsp;four seasons.

SA20 Commissioner and former South Africa captain Graeme Smith opened up on the challenges. According to him, the league won’t expand until 2028 as per current commitments, but doing so in the future will come up with a certain set of challenges.

It was yet another season and yet another success for SunRisers Eastern Cape as they lifted their third SA20 title with a thrilling win over Pretoria Capitals on Sunday (Jan 25). The six-wicket win was their third success since the competition started. The SA20, which already has a dedicated set of fans, could expand in the future with the league set to enter a new cycle from 2028. However, expanding the league from six to eight teams will come with a set of challenges. Smith opens up on SA20 expansion Speaking on the same, SA20 Commissioner and former South Africa captain Graeme Smith opened up on the challenges. According to him, the league won’t expand until 2028 as per current commitments, but doing so in the future will come up with a certain set of challenges. Smith reckons that expanding teams will require a larger pool of homegrown players. "If teams expand, tournaments would be longer, so scheduling with Cricket South Africa’s Future Tours Program is crucial," Smith explained in the post-season press meet. "From 2027, the cycle shifts and expansion means adding 25-30 more South African cricketers. Maintaining league competitiveness is key as you consider these changes. “These are things and which venues do you go to, and then obviously the investors. We do get approached by potential investors that are interested, but it's a whole complex thing that needs to be. Once Cricket South Africa and our shareholders decide what they want to do, then we've got to do the work,” Smith added. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds SunRisers emerge victorious Sunrisers Eastern Cape clinched their third SA20 title in four seasons with a memorable six-wicket victory over Pretoria Capitals (PC) at Newlands, overcoming early trouble to chase down 159 with four balls to spare after batting heroics from Matthew Breetzke and captain Tristan Stubbs. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli After being put into bat by the captain, Pretoria Capitals were lifted by a brilliant century from Dewald Brevis, who scored 101 off 56 balls, including eight fours and seven sixes, and carried his side to 158 for 7 after they had lost two wickets for just one run on the board early on. Brevis stitched a 96-run partnership with Bryce Parsons and struck the majority of the boundaries in the innings, but received little support from the rest of the lineup. However, Brevis’s efforts went in vain with SunRisers lifting their third title in four seasons.

SA20 Commissioner and former South Africa captain Graeme Smith opened up on the challenges. According to him, the league won’t expand until 2028 as per current commitments, but doing so in the future will come up with a certain set of challenges.

Graeme Smith underlines key factor in potential SA20 expansion, says 'want to keep the league competitive'

England Test skipper Ben Stokes will be joining Andrew Flintoff's coaching staff for England Lions' white-ball series in Pakistan. The Lions are England's A team, consisting of upcoming and fringe players. The serie, which comprises three T20s and five ODIs, will be played from Feb 20 to Mar 9, starting with T20Is. The series will be used by Stokes as rehablitation opportunity to recover from the groin injury suffered during the recent fifth Test of Ashes series in Sydney, Down Under. Along with Stokes, retired all-rounder Moeen Ali will also join Flintoff's coaching staff.<h2>Why Ben Stokes joining England Lions coaching staff is unusual</h2>Stokes, who only plays Test cricket for England, is a surprise inclusion to the coaching staff, that too for white-ball series. He last a T20I for England in 2022 (T20 World Cup final vs Pakistan) and last 50-over match in 2023 ODI World Cup, also against Pakistan. With 2027 ODI World Cup nearly 18 months away, could Stokes' inclusion is hinting at bigger picture? We'll know when the time comes.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-hitting-red-ball-after-four-five-months-ex-india-coach-dravid-shares-why-indian-batters-struggling-in-test-cricket-1769605657187">Ex-India coach Dravid shares why Indian batters struggling in Test cricket</a>The series which will run parallelly to the T20 World Cup 2026, will also provide back-up options for England in case of any unforseen injury. The squad also includes Saqib Mahmood, who had recently got the visa for India, along with his Pakistan-origin teammates Rehan Ahmed and Adil Rashid.“With limited 50-over cricket on offer, this series combined with tours over the remainder of 2026 will give players the opportunity to develop and deliver as we build towards the 2027 ICC Men's World Cup in South Africa,” said Ed Barney, England's performance director, in a press release.<h2>England Squad (Provisional for ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026)</h2>Harry Brook (C), Rehan Ahmed, Jofra Archer, Tom Banton, Jacob Bethell, Jos Buttler, Sam Curran, Liam Dawson, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid, Phil Salt, Josh Tongue, Luke Wood

Stokes, who only plays Test cricket for England, is a surprise inclusion to the coaching staff. With 2027 ODI World Cup nearly 18 months away, could Stokes' inclusion is hinting at bigger picture? We'll know when the time comes.

England Test skipper Ben Stokes will be joining Andrew Flintoff's coaching staff for England Lions' white-ball series in Pakistan. The Lions are England's A team, consisting of upcoming and fringe players. The serie, which comprises three T20s and five ODIs, will be played from Feb 20 to Mar 9, starting with T20Is. The series will be used by Stokes as rehablitation opportunity to recover from the groin injury suffered during the recent fifth Test of Ashes series in Sydney, Down Under. Along with Stokes, retired all-rounder Moeen Ali will also join Flintoff's coaching staff. Why Ben Stokes joining England Lions coaching staff is unusual Stokes, who only plays Test cricket for England, is a surprise inclusion to the coaching staff, that too for white-ball series. He last a T20I for England in 2022 (T20 World Cup final vs Pakistan) and last 50-over match in 2023 ODI World Cup, also against Pakistan. With 2027 ODI World Cup nearly 18 months away, could Stokes' inclusion is hinting at bigger picture? We'll know when the time comes. Also Read - Ex-India coach Dravid shares why Indian batters struggling in Test cricket The series which will run parallelly to the T20 World Cup 2026, will also provide back-up options for England in case of any unforseen injury. The squad also includes Saqib Mahmood, who had recently got the visa for India, along with his Pakistan-origin teammates Rehan Ahmed and Adil Rashid. “With limited 50-over cricket on offer, this series combined with tours over the remainder of 2026 will give players the opportunity to develop and deliver as we build towards the 2027 ICC Men's World Cup in South Africa,” said Ed Barney, England's performance director, in a press release. England Squad (Provisional for ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026) Harry Brook (C), Rehan Ahmed, Jofra Archer, Tom Banton, Jacob Bethell, Jos Buttler, Sam Curran, Liam Dawson, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid, Phil Salt, Josh Tongue, Luke Wood

Stokes, who only plays Test cricket for England, is a surprise inclusion to the coaching staff. With 2027 ODI World Cup nearly 18 months away, could Stokes' inclusion is hinting at bigger picture? We'll know when the time comes.

'As we build towards 2027 ODI WC': Stokes joins England Lions coaching staff

From Mark Adair to Ajantha Mendis, here's a look at the top five bowlers fastest to 50 wickets in T20Is. This list also includes Dhruvkumar Maisuria, Syazrul Idrus and Alpesh Ramjani

From Mark Adair to Ajantha Mendis, here's a look at the top five bowlers fastest to 50 wickets in T20Is. This list also includes Dhruvkumar Maisuria, Syazrul Idrus and Alpesh Ramjani

Meet top 5 bowlers fastest to 50 wickets in T20Is

Former India coach Rahul Dravid says that the lack of time for preparation is causing troubles for the Indian batters in Test cricket. The statement comes after India's home Test series loss to New Zeland in 2024, Border-Gavasker Trophy (BGT) in Australia in Dec 2024-Jan 2025, and most recently vs South Africa at home last year. Dravid also noted that the problem is bigger for the all format players as well as the players who are playing more cricket including for franchises. He noted that paying Tests requires skill and it takes time to develop those skills.<h2>Rahul Dravid reveals why India batters are struggling in Test cricket</h2>"There were times when we would get to a Test match three to four days before the match, and then when we start practising for the Test match, [and] when you look back at the last time that some of these guys had actually hit a red ball, it might have been four months ago or five months ago," he said during a book launch in Bengaluru on Tuesday (Jan 27).Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-t20i-rankings-suryakumar-yadav-jumps-five-spots-to-seventh-abhishek-stays-on-top-1769591581766">ICC T20I Rankings: Suryakumar jumps five spots to seventh, Abhishek stays on top</a>"That's become really a challenge, how do you almost find the time to be able to develop some of the skills that are hard. To play on turning tracks, or play on seaming wickets, doing that for hours and hours in a Test match is not easy. It requires skill."Now, one of the things that has become a bit tougher in red-ball cricket is a lot of our guys who play all the three formats, or who play the amount of cricket that they are playing, sometimes don't have the time to be able to practise red-ball cricket as much," the former coach added.<h2>How is India performing in WTC 2025-27 Cycle</h2>India currently sit at sixth place in the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 cycle with just four wins in nine Tests. The Shubman Gill-led side has lost four matches and drew one as well. India started the current WTC cycle with Gill as new captain. They first travelled to England for a five-Test series which ended with 2-2 result. India then faced West Indies at home and the won the two-Test series 2-0. In the most recent Test series against South Africa, also at home, India lost both the matches and lost 0-2.

Dravid also noted that the problem is bigger for the all format players as well as the players who are playing more cricket including for franchises. He noted that paying Tests requires skill and it takes time to develop those skills.

Former India coach Rahul Dravid says that the lack of time for preparation is causing troubles for the Indian batters in Test cricket. The statement comes after India's home Test series loss to New Zeland in 2024, Border-Gavasker Trophy (BGT) in Australia in Dec 2024-Jan 2025, and most recently vs South Africa at home last year. Dravid also noted that the problem is bigger for the all format players as well as the players who are playing more cricket including for franchises. He noted that paying Tests requires skill and it takes time to develop those skills. Rahul Dravid reveals why India batters are struggling in Test cricket "There were times when we would get to a Test match three to four days before the match, and then when we start practising for the Test match, [and] when you look back at the last time that some of these guys had actually hit a red ball, it might have been four months ago or five months ago," he said during a book launch in Bengaluru on Tuesday (Jan 27). Also Read: ICC T20I Rankings: Suryakumar jumps five spots to seventh, Abhishek stays on top "That's become really a challenge, how do you almost find the time to be able to develop some of the skills that are hard. To play on turning tracks, or play on seaming wickets, doing that for hours and hours in a Test match is not easy. It requires skill. "Now, one of the things that has become a bit tougher in red-ball cricket is a lot of our guys who play all the three formats, or who play the amount of cricket that they are playing, sometimes don't have the time to be able to practise red-ball cricket as much," the former coach added. How is India performing in WTC 2025-27 Cycle India currently sit at sixth place in the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 cycle with just four wins in nine Tests. The Shubman Gill-led side has lost four matches and drew one as well. India started the current WTC cycle with Gill as new captain. They first travelled to England for a five-Test series which ended with 2-2 result. India then faced West Indies at home and the won the two-Test series 2-0. In the most recent Test series against South Africa, also at home, India lost both the matches and lost 0-2.

Dravid also noted that the problem is bigger for the all format players as well as the players who are playing more cricket including for franchises. He noted that paying Tests requires skill and it takes time to develop those skills.

'Hitting red-ball after four-five months': Ex-India coach Dravid shares why Indian batters struggling in Test cricket

From Rohit Sharma to Hardik Pandya, here is a look at five active Indian batters with most ODI ducks. The unfortunate list also features the likes of Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammed Shami. 

From Rohit Sharma to Hardik Pandya, here is a look at five active Indian batters with most ODI ducks. The unfortunate list also features the likes of Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammed Shami.&nbsp;

Meet 5 active Indian batters with most ODI ducks ft Virat Kohli

From Yuvraj Singh to Virat Kohli, here's a look at the top five Indian players with most Player of the Match awards in international cricket. This list also includes Sachin Tendulkar, Rohit Sharma and Sourav Ganguly

From Yuvraj Singh to Virat Kohli, here's a look at the top five Indian players with most Player of the Match awards in international cricket. This list also includes Sachin Tendulkar, Rohit Sharma and Sourav Ganguly

Meet top 5 Indian players with most Player of the Match awards in international cricket

India captain Suryakumar Yadav moved up five places to seventh with 717 points in the latest ICC men’s T20I batting rankings on Wednesday (Jan 28). His rise comes after strong performances in the ongoing five-match home series against New Zealand, where he scored 32, 82 not out and 57 not out in the first three matches, helping India take a 3-0 lead in the series. India continue to dominate the top of the rankings with star opener Abhishek Sharma holding the number one spot with 929 points and Tilak Varma placed third with 781 points.&nbsp;Ishan Kishan has returned to the rankings at 64th after scoring a quick 76 off 32 balls in the second match at Raipur. Shivam Dube climbed nine spots to 58th, while Rinku Singh jumped 13 places to 68th, reflecting India’s strong batting depth.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wpl-2026-major-blow-for-up-warriorz-as-star-batter-ruled-out-replacement-named-1769587586892">WPL 2026: Major blow for UP Warriorz as star batter ruled out, replacement named</a>&nbsp;Afghanistan batters also made good progress after their 2-1 series win over the West Indies in Dubai. Opener Ibrahim Zadran moved up to 13th place with 648 points and Rahmanullah Gurbaz rose to 15th. Player of the Series Darwish Rasooli climbed 29 places to 87th after scoring 156 runs.&nbsp;South African captain Aiden Markram also entered the top 20 following his unbeaten 86 off 47 balls against the West Indies. West Indies batter Brandon King moved up to 35th, while New Zealand’s Glenn Phillips reached 44th.&nbsp;In the T20I bowling rankings, Afghanistan spinner Mujeeb Ur Rahman moved up to ninth with 656 points after taking four wickets against the West Indies. India’s Jasprit Bumrah rose to 13th with 640 points and Ravi Bishnoi to 19th.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-4th-t20i-when-and-where-to-watch-india-vs-new-zealand-match-live-streaming-in-india-1769584666037">IND vs NZ, 4th T20I: When and where to watch match live streaming in India?</a>&nbsp;Hardik Pandya also made huge gains, jumping 18 places to 59th among bowlers after taking four wickets in three matches. He also moved up to 53rd among batters and remains third among all-rounders.&nbsp;In ODI rankings, England batters Harry Brook and Joe Root moved up after helping England win a 2-1 series in Sri Lanka. Brook climbed to 11th position with 660 points , while Root rose to 17th with 632 points. Among ODI bowlers, England leg-spinner Adil Rashid moved up to fifth after taking seven wickets.&nbsp;

India continue to dominate the top of the rankings with star opener Abhishek Sharma holding the number one spot with 929 points and Tilak Varma placed third with 781 points.

India captain Suryakumar Yadav moved up five places to seventh with 717 points in the latest ICC men’s T20I batting rankings on Wednesday (Jan 28). His rise comes after strong performances in the ongoing five-match home series against New Zealand, where he scored 32, 82 not out and 57 not out in the first three matches, helping India take a 3-0 lead in the series. India continue to dominate the top of the rankings with star opener Abhishek Sharma holding the number one spot with 929 points and Tilak Varma placed third with 781 points. Ishan Kishan has returned to the rankings at 64th after scoring a quick 76 off 32 balls in the second match at Raipur. Shivam Dube climbed nine spots to 58th, while Rinku Singh jumped 13 places to 68th, reflecting India’s strong batting depth. Also Read - WPL 2026: Major blow for UP Warriorz as star batter ruled out, replacement named Afghanistan batters also made good progress after their 2-1 series win over the West Indies in Dubai. Opener Ibrahim Zadran moved up to 13th place with 648 points and Rahmanullah Gurbaz rose to 15th. Player of the Series Darwish Rasooli climbed 29 places to 87th after scoring 156 runs. South African captain Aiden Markram also entered the top 20 following his unbeaten 86 off 47 balls against the West Indies. West Indies batter Brandon King moved up to 35th, while New Zealand’s Glenn Phillips reached 44th. In the T20I bowling rankings, Afghanistan spinner Mujeeb Ur Rahman moved up to ninth with 656 points after taking four wickets against the West Indies. India’s Jasprit Bumrah rose to 13th with 640 points and Ravi Bishnoi to 19th. Also Read - IND vs NZ, 4th T20I: When and where to watch match live streaming in India? Hardik Pandya also made huge gains, jumping 18 places to 59th among bowlers after taking four wickets in three matches. He also moved up to 53rd among batters and remains third among all-rounders. In ODI rankings, England batters Harry Brook and Joe Root moved up after helping England win a 2-1 series in Sri Lanka. Brook climbed to 11th position with 660 points , while Root rose to 17th with 632 points. Among ODI bowlers, England leg-spinner Adil Rashid moved up to fifth after taking seven wickets.

India continue to dominate the top of the rankings with star opener Abhishek Sharma holding the number one spot with 929 points and Tilak Varma placed third with 781 points.

ICC T20I Rankings: Suryakumar Yadav jumps five spots to seventh, Abhishek stays on top

UP Warriorz (UPW) have named England wicketkeeper-batter Amy Jones as a replacement for Phoebe Litchfield, who has been ruled out for the rest of the WPL 2026 due to injury. Litchfield suffered a quad injury and has returned to Australia for rehabilitation ahead of the upcoming home series against India, starting on Feb 15, according to a Cricket Australia spokesperson. The 22-year-old Litchfield was in excellent form for UP Warriorz, ending the season as the team’s highest run-scorer and the third-highest overall. She scored 243 runs in six matches and played an important role for her team at the top of the batting order.&nbsp;Jones, who went unsold at the auction has been signed at her base price of INR 50 lakh and is expected to strengthen both the batting line-up and wicketkeeping options for the remainder of the tournament. The experienced England player has featured in 125 T20 Internationals and 111 ODIs and has also played in the leagues such as the WBBL and The Hundred.&nbsp;Also Read -<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-4th-t20i-when-and-where-to-watch-india-vs-new-zealand-match-live-streaming-in-india-1769584666037"> IND vs NZ, 4th T20I: When and where to watch India vs New Zealand match live streaming in India?</a>&nbsp;UPW last played on Jan 22, when they lost to Gujarat Giants by 45 runs and the defeat left them at the bottom of the points table with the lowest net run rate among the five teams. To make the playoffs, they must win both of their remaining matches and also improve their net run rate. UPW will face Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Thursday, followed by a match against Delhi Capitals on Feb 1.<h2>UP Warriorz updated squad</h2>Kiran Navgire, Meg Lanning (c), Amy Jones, Harleen Deol, Deepti Sharma, Deandra Dottin, Shikha Pandey, Shweta Sehrawat (wk), Sophie Ecclestone, Asha Sobhana, Kranti Gaud, Chloe Tryon, Charli Knott, Simran Shaikh, Shipra Giri, Pratika Rawal, Gongadi Trisha and Suman Meena

To qualify for the playoffs, Warriorz must win both of their remaining matches and also improve their net run rate. UPW will face Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Thursday, followed by a clash against Delhi Capitals on Feb 1.

UP Warriorz (UPW) have named England wicketkeeper-batter Amy Jones as a replacement for Phoebe Litchfield, who has been ruled out for the rest of the WPL 2026 due to injury. Litchfield suffered a quad injury and has returned to Australia for rehabilitation ahead of the upcoming home series against India, starting on Feb 15, according to a Cricket Australia spokesperson. The 22-year-old Litchfield was in excellent form for UP Warriorz, ending the season as the team’s highest run-scorer and the third-highest overall. She scored 243 runs in six matches and played an important role for her team at the top of the batting order. Jones, who went unsold at the auction has been signed at her base price of INR 50 lakh and is expected to strengthen both the batting line-up and wicketkeeping options for the remainder of the tournament. The experienced England player has featured in 125 T20 Internationals and 111 ODIs and has also played in the leagues such as the WBBL and The Hundred. Also Read - IND vs NZ, 4th T20I: When and where to watch India vs New Zealand match live streaming in India? UPW last played on Jan 22, when they lost to Gujarat Giants by 45 runs and the defeat left them at the bottom of the points table with the lowest net run rate among the five teams. To make the playoffs, they must win both of their remaining matches and also improve their net run rate. UPW will face Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Thursday, followed by a match against Delhi Capitals on Feb 1. UP Warriorz updated squad Kiran Navgire, Meg Lanning (c), Amy Jones, Harleen Deol, Deepti Sharma, Deandra Dottin, Shikha Pandey, Shweta Sehrawat (wk), Sophie Ecclestone, Asha Sobhana, Kranti Gaud, Chloe Tryon, Charli Knott, Simran Shaikh, Shipra Giri, Pratika Rawal, Gongadi Trisha and Suman Meena

To qualify for the playoffs, Warriorz must win both of their remaining matches and also improve their net run rate. UPW will face Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Thursday, followed by a clash against Delhi Capitals on Feb 1.

WPL 2026: Major blow for UP Warriorz as star batter ruled out, replacement named

From Virat Kohli to Ricky Ponting, here's a look at the top five batters with most runs in One Day Internationals. This list also includes Sachin Tendulkar, Kumar Sangakkara and Sanath Jayasuriya

From Virat Kohli to Ricky Ponting, here's a look at the top five batters with most runs in One Day Internationals. This list also includes Sachin Tendulkar, Kumar Sangakkara and Sanath Jayasuriya

Meet top 5 batters with most runs in ODIs, check where Virat Kohli stands

India will aim to extend their strong run when they take on New Zealand in the fourth match of the five-game T20I series at the ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam on Wednesday (Jan 28). Under the leadership of Suryakumar Yadav, India have been in excellent form throughout the series and sealed the series with a commanding win on Sunday in Guwahati. They comfortably chased a target of over 150 runs in 10 overs. Earlier, the team also pulled off a successful chase of more than 200 runs with nearly five overs to spare. A major boost for India has been the return to form of captain Suryakumar Yadav, who struck back-to-back half-centuries, ending a 24-match drought without reaching the milestone.<h2>India vs New Zealand, 4th T20I - Live streaming details</h2>As the fourth T20I between India and New Zealand approaching, here’s a look at the live streaming details for fans in India.<h2>When and where is India vs New Zealand, 4th T20I?</h2>The fourth T20I between India and New Zealand will take place on Wednesday (Jan 28), at the ACA-VDCA Stadium in Visakhatpatnmam, starting at 7 PM IST.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/surprise-entry-for-india-a-in-t20-world-cup-schedule-as-top-teams-skip-warm-ups-full-list-of-matches-inside-1769583611542">Surprise entry for India-A in T20 World Cup schedule as top teams skip warm-ups: full list of matches inside</a><h2>Where to watch India vs New Zealand, 4th T20I live?</h2>The Star Sports Network in India will broadcast the fourth T20I between India and New Zealand.<h2>Where to livestream India vs New Zealand, 4th T20I?</h2>The fans can watch the live streaming of the fourth T20I between India and New Zealand on the JioHotstar app and website in India.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/davos-2026-fifa-president-gianni-infantino-praises-football-s-magic-globally-says-it-transforms-people-s-life-del-piero-wenger-1769098245439">Davos 2026: FIFA President Gianni Infantino praises football's magic globally, says 'it transforms people's life'</a><h2>What time will the toss take place?</h2>The toss for the fourth T20I between India and New Zealand will be held at 6:30 pm IST.<h2>India vs New Zealand T20I squads -</h2>India: Sanju Samson(w), Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav(c), Shivam Dube, Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, Harshit Rana, Ravi Bishnoi, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Axar Patel, Shreyas Iyer, Varun Chakaravarthy and Arshdeep Singh&nbsp;New Zealand: Devon Conway, Tim Seifert(w), Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Mitchell Santner(c), Kyle Jamieson, Matt Henry, Ish Sodhi, Jacob Duffy, James Neesham, Michael Bracewell, Lockie Ferguson, Zakary Foulkes and Bevon Jacobs

As the fourth T20I between India and New Zealand approaching, here’s a look at the live streaming details for fans in India.

India will aim to extend their strong run when they take on New Zealand in the fourth match of the five-game T20I series at the ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam on Wednesday (Jan 28). Under the leadership of Suryakumar Yadav, India have been in excellent form throughout the series and sealed the series with a commanding win on Sunday in Guwahati. They comfortably chased a target of over 150 runs in 10 overs. Earlier, the team also pulled off a successful chase of more than 200 runs with nearly five overs to spare. A major boost for India has been the return to form of captain Suryakumar Yadav, who struck back-to-back half-centuries, ending a 24-match drought without reaching the milestone. India vs New Zealand, 4th T20I - Live streaming details As the fourth T20I between India and New Zealand approaching, here’s a look at the live streaming details for fans in India. When and where is India vs New Zealand, 4th T20I? The fourth T20I between India and New Zealand will take place on Wednesday (Jan 28), at the ACA-VDCA Stadium in Visakhatpatnmam, starting at 7 PM IST. Also Read - Surprise entry for India-A in T20 World Cup schedule as top teams skip warm-ups: full list of matches inside Where to watch India vs New Zealand, 4th T20I live? The Star Sports Network in India will broadcast the fourth T20I between India and New Zealand. Where to livestream India vs New Zealand, 4th T20I? The fans can watch the live streaming of the fourth T20I between India and New Zealand on the JioHotstar app and website in India. Also Read - Davos 2026: FIFA President Gianni Infantino praises football's magic globally, says 'it transforms people's life' What time will the toss take place? The toss for the fourth T20I between India and New Zealand will be held at 6:30 pm IST. India vs New Zealand T20I squads - India: Sanju Samson(w), Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav(c), Shivam Dube, Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, Harshit Rana, Ravi Bishnoi, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Axar Patel, Shreyas Iyer, Varun Chakaravarthy and Arshdeep Singh New Zealand: Devon Conway, Tim Seifert(w), Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Mitchell Santner(c), Kyle Jamieson, Matt Henry, Ish Sodhi, Jacob Duffy, James Neesham, Michael Bracewell, Lockie Ferguson, Zakary Foulkes and Bevon Jacobs

As the fourth T20I between India and New Zealand approaching, here’s a look at the live streaming details for fans in India.

IND vs NZ, 4th T20I: When and where to watch India vs New Zealand match live streaming in India?

With the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup starting in 10 days, the warm-up schedule has been announced. While a few of the top–ranked nations opted out, India-A is added to the roster, slated to take on the USA and Namibia, two teams placed alongside India, Pakistan and the Netherlands in Group A. Most of the 20 participating teams will play their scheduled practice matches before the tournament begins on February 7 in India and Sri Lanka.&nbsp;Amid reports of either South Africa or India-A being Team India’s opponent in their sole practice match ahead of the showpiece event, South Africa is zeroed in as India’s warm-up fixture opponent, with Mumbai’s DY Patil Stadium slated to host this contest on February 4, three days before India’s opener against the USA. India and South Africa faced off in a five-match bilateral T20Is late last year, with India winning 3-1.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-warned-against-spoiling-relations-with-icc-amid-2026-t20-world-cup-boycott-talks-1769579486912">Pakistan warned against ‘spoiling relations with ICC’ amid T20 World Cup boycott talks</a> &nbsp;While India-A is one of the teams for warm-up fixtures (against the USA in Navi Mumbai and Namibia in Bengaluru), two former winners among the three teams, including Australia, England and New Zealand, decided not to play any before the tournament.&nbsp; &nbsp;Australia take on Pakistan in away T20Is, a three-match series concluding February 1, while England will wrap its T20I series against Sri Lanka a day later.&nbsp; &nbsp;Sri Lanka, however, will host Oman on February 3 in Colombo in their only warm-up fixture. New Zealand, on the other hand, will play no cricket following the final T20I against India on January 31.<h3>Here is the full list of T20 World Cup warm-up fixtures –</h3><ul><li>February 2 – Afghanistan vs Scotland – Bengaluru – 3 PM</li><li>February 2 – India A vs USA – Navi Mumbai – 5 PM</li><li>February 2 – Canada vs Italy – Chennai – 7 PM</li><li>February 3 – Sri Lanka A vs Oman – Colombo – 1 PM</li><li>February 3 – Netherlands vs Zimbabwe – Colombo – 3 PM</li><li>February 3 – Nepal vs UAE – Chennai – 5 PM</li><li>February 4 – Namibia vs Scotland – Bengaluru – 1 PM</li><li>February 4 – Afghanistan vs West Indies – Bengaluru – 3 PM</li><li>February 4 – Ireland vs Pakistan – Colombo – 5 PM</li><li>February 4 – India vs South Africa – Navi Mumbai – 7 PM</li><li>February 5 – Oman vs Zimbabwe – Colombo – 1 PM</li><li>February 5 – Canada vs Nepal – Chennai – 3 PM</li><li>February 5 – New Zealand vs USA – Navi Mumbai – 5 PM</li><li>February 6 – Italy vs UAE – Chennai – 3 PM</li><li>February 6 – India A vs Namibia – Bengaluru – 5 PM</li></ul>Meanwhile, Pakistan’s participation remains subject to clearance from its government, as the PCB claims to reveal its final decision on Friday or Monday. Although following Bangladesh’s exit, Pakistan pulling out looks like a distant thought, should that happen, the ICC has reportedly kept Bangladesh on standby to replace Pakistan in Group A.

Get the full ICC T20 World Cup 2026 warm-up schedule. India-A joins the roster as top teams opt out. See dates for India vs South Africa & Pakistan updates.

With the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup starting in 10 days, the warm-up schedule has been announced. While a few of the top–ranked nations opted out, India-A is added to the roster, slated to take on the USA and Namibia, two teams placed alongside India, Pakistan and the Netherlands in Group A. Most of the 20 participating teams will play their scheduled practice matches before the tournament begins on February 7 in India and Sri Lanka. Amid reports of either South Africa or India-A being Team India’s opponent in their sole practice match ahead of the showpiece event, South Africa is zeroed in as India’s warm-up fixture opponent, with Mumbai’s DY Patil Stadium slated to host this contest on February 4, three days before India’s opener against the USA. India and South Africa faced off in a five-match bilateral T20Is late last year, with India winning 3-1. Also read | Pakistan warned against ‘spoiling relations with ICC’ amid T20 World Cup boycott talks While India-A is one of the teams for warm-up fixtures (against the USA in Navi Mumbai and Namibia in Bengaluru), two former winners among the three teams, including Australia, England and New Zealand, decided not to play any before the tournament. Australia take on Pakistan in away T20Is, a three-match series concluding February 1, while England will wrap its T20I series against Sri Lanka a day later. Sri Lanka, however, will host Oman on February 3 in Colombo in their only warm-up fixture. New Zealand, on the other hand, will play no cricket following the final T20I against India on January 31. Here is the full list of T20 World Cup warm-up fixtures – February 2 – Afghanistan vs Scotland – Bengaluru – 3 PM February 2 – India A vs USA – Navi Mumbai – 5 PM February 2 – Canada vs Italy – Chennai – 7 PM February 3 – Sri Lanka A vs Oman – Colombo – 1 PM February 3 – Netherlands vs Zimbabwe – Colombo – 3 PM February 3 – Nepal vs UAE – Chennai – 5 PM February 4 – Namibia vs Scotland – Bengaluru – 1 PM February 4 – Afghanistan vs West Indies – Bengaluru – 3 PM February 4 – Ireland vs Pakistan – Colombo – 5 PM February 4 – India vs South Africa – Navi Mumbai – 7 PM February 5 – Oman vs Zimbabwe – Colombo – 1 PM February 5 – Canada vs Nepal – Chennai – 3 PM February 5 – New Zealand vs USA – Navi Mumbai – 5 PM February 6 – Italy vs UAE – Chennai – 3 PM February 6 – India A vs Namibia – Bengaluru – 5 PM Meanwhile, Pakistan’s participation remains subject to clearance from its government, as the PCB claims to reveal its final decision on Friday or Monday. Although following Bangladesh’s exit, Pakistan pulling out looks like a distant thought, should that happen, the ICC has reportedly kept Bangladesh on standby to replace Pakistan in Group A.

Most of the 20 participating teams, including India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka, will play their scheduled practice matches before the tournament begins on February 7 in India and Sri Lanka.

Surprise entry for India-A in T20 World Cup schedule as top teams skip warm-ups: full list of matches inside

Former Pakistan cricketers and board officials have warned the PCB against spoiling its relationship with the ICC by contemplating a boycott of the 2026 T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka. Unsure about its participation in the 20-team tournament starting February 7, PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi claims to reveal the board’s decision on Friday or Monday, whether they will continue with their participation or withdraw their name from the tournament. Should the latter happen, the ICC is reportedly keeping Bangladesh, a team they recently replaced Scotland with, on standby.&nbsp;After failing to find a middle ground on the venue row concerning Bangladesh, the apex body replaced them with a lower-ranked team on the standings (Scotland) in Group C. Pakistan, on the other hand, jumped into this conversation out of nowhere showing solidarity with the BCB, while threatening to pull its name out of this showpiece event on the pretext of injustice done to the Bangladesh Cricket and its fans. While the BCB decided against taking any legal action against cricket’s governing body, the PCB continues to put logistics, sponsors, broadcasters, and who ’s-who in limbo.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bangladesh-journalists-will-not-cover-2026-t20-world-cup-as-icc-rejects-over-130-applications-1769514816150">Bangladesh journalists won’t cover T20 World Cup as ICC rejects over 130 applications – Report</a><h3>'Support is fine, but be realistic'</h3>A PTI report states how several former players and board members have reacted to PCB derailing its tournament’s participation. Ex-PCB chairman Khalid Mahmood and former board secretary Arif Ali Abbasi shared logical reasoning, suggesting that whatever the PCB is doing is unreasonable and could hurt its cricket.&nbsp; &nbsp;“I can understand Pakistan supporting Bangladesh, but what purpose will PCB achieve by not sending its team apart from spoiling relations with the International Cricket Council and member boards,” Abbasi said, stressing that the PCB must prioritise Pakistan cricket. “What about our relations with Sri Lanka? Obviously, Sri Lanka will suffer losses if Pakistan doesn’t go as all our matches are in Sri Lanka, including matches with India,” he also pointed out. &nbsp;On the other hand, Mahmood called PCB’s stance ‘laudable’ but urged practicality. &nbsp;“We have to remember that, except for Pakistan, no other cricket board supported the Bangladesh demand to move matches from India. I can understand the stance taken by the Bangladesh board, but it is also a fact that no one supported them in the ICC meeting,” he said.&nbsp; &nbsp;Meanwhile, former Test batsman, chief selector and head coach Mohsin Khan shared similar views, saying, “We have issues with India, but we are playing all our matches in Sri Lanka. So, then on what grounds will the PCB not send its team to the World Cup? It will be bad for our cricket,” he cautioned. &nbsp;Inzamam-ul-Haq, the former Pakistan captain, also urged the board to go ahead with the participation.&nbsp; &nbsp;“I personally would like to see Pakistan compete in the World Cup. We have some good players and our cricket needs to see our team doing well in big events,” he said.&nbsp;

While the BCB decided against taking any legal action against cricket’s governing body, the PCB continues to put logistics, sponsors, broadcasters, and who ’s-who in limbo.

Former Pakistan cricketers and board officials have warned the PCB against spoiling its relationship with the ICC by contemplating a boycott of the 2026 T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka. Unsure about its participation in the 20-team tournament starting February 7, PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi claims to reveal the board’s decision on Friday or Monday, whether they will continue with their participation or withdraw their name from the tournament. Should the latter happen, the ICC is reportedly keeping Bangladesh, a team they recently replaced Scotland with, on standby. After failing to find a middle ground on the venue row concerning Bangladesh, the apex body replaced them with a lower-ranked team on the standings (Scotland) in Group C. Pakistan, on the other hand, jumped into this conversation out of nowhere showing solidarity with the BCB, while threatening to pull its name out of this showpiece event on the pretext of injustice done to the Bangladesh Cricket and its fans. While the BCB decided against taking any legal action against cricket’s governing body, the PCB continues to put logistics, sponsors, broadcasters, and who ’s-who in limbo. Also read | Bangladesh journalists won’t cover T20 World Cup as ICC rejects over 130 applications – Report 'Support is fine, but be realistic' A PTI report states how several former players and board members have reacted to PCB derailing its tournament’s participation. Ex-PCB chairman Khalid Mahmood and former board secretary Arif Ali Abbasi shared logical reasoning, suggesting that whatever the PCB is doing is unreasonable and could hurt its cricket. “I can understand Pakistan supporting Bangladesh, but what purpose will PCB achieve by not sending its team apart from spoiling relations with the International Cricket Council and member boards,” Abbasi said, stressing that the PCB must prioritise Pakistan cricket. “What about our relations with Sri Lanka? Obviously, Sri Lanka will suffer losses if Pakistan doesn’t go as all our matches are in Sri Lanka, including matches with India,” he also pointed out. On the other hand, Mahmood called PCB’s stance ‘laudable’ but urged practicality. “We have to remember that, except for Pakistan, no other cricket board supported the Bangladesh demand to move matches from India. I can understand the stance taken by the Bangladesh board, but it is also a fact that no one supported them in the ICC meeting,” he said. Meanwhile, former Test batsman, chief selector and head coach Mohsin Khan shared similar views, saying, “We have issues with India, but we are playing all our matches in Sri Lanka. So, then on what grounds will the PCB not send its team to the World Cup? It will be bad for our cricket,” he cautioned. Inzamam-ul-Haq, the former Pakistan captain, also urged the board to go ahead with the participation. “I personally would like to see Pakistan compete in the World Cup. We have some good players and our cricket needs to see our team doing well in big events,” he said.

While the BCB decided against taking any legal action against cricket’s governing body, the PCB continues to put logistics, sponsors, broadcasters, and who ’s-who in limbo.

Pakistan warned against ‘spoiling relations with ICC’ amid T20 World Cup boycott talks

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Pakistan warned against ‘spoiling relations with ICC’ amid T20 WC boycott talks