India are scheduled to travel to New Zealand for a full-fledged tour comprising Tests, ODIs, and T20Is later this year. With the Test team still in transition and ODIs losing their sheen, the T20Is will get the most focus. India are three-time World T20 champions, with their last two titles coming in 2024 and 2026. The most exciting part of India's T20I team in recent times has been 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. The teenager made his India debut earlier this year against England, and Kiwi head coach Rob Walter wants to see how Sooryavanshi performs on New Zealand pitches.<h2>Kiwi coach Rob Walter waiting for Sooryavanshi to come to New Zealand</h2>"I’d love to see him on pacy and bouncy wickets and see how different that looks. But he’s an exciting player. You’ve seen him dominate against the world’s best bowlers in the IPL. I think the challenge is always to see how that translates to different conditions, and also how we bowl to him in our conditions,” Walter said during a media interaction.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-benchmark-for-all-pakistani-teams-says-head-coach-mike-hesson-ahead-of-asian-games-1790224375215">'India benchmark for all Pakistani teams,' says head coach Mike Hesson ahead of Asian Games</a>As for how he wants New Zealand to perform against Sooryavanshi and India, Walter added: "Again, secretly as a coach, you always want to see your players under a little bit of pressure and how we respond to that. So I am looking forward to it, if that is the case. If he’s not here, they do have a lot of very good players other than him."<h2>India tour of New Zealand</h2>India will play five T20Is, five ODIs, and two Tests on the tour, which will begin with the T20I series on October 22 in Christchurch. The next four matches of the T20I series will be played on October 24, October 27, October 30, and November 1 in Christchurch, Wellington, Auckland, and Hamilton, respectively.After the T20Is come the ODIs, with matches scheduled for November 4 in Auckland, November 7 in Wellington, November 10 in Hamilton, and November 13 and November 15 in Mount Maunganui. The first Test starts on November 19 in Wellington, and the second Test is scheduled from November 27 in Christchurch.

Kiwi coach Rob Walter challenged 15-year-old India phenom Vaibhav Sooryavanshi to adapt to pacy NZ pitches during India's upcoming tour (5 T20Is, 5 ODIs, 2 Tests) starting Oct 22 in Christchurch.

India are scheduled to travel to New Zealand for a full-fledged tour comprising Tests, ODIs, and T20Is later this year. With the Test team still in transition and ODIs losing their sheen, the T20Is will get the most focus. India are three-time World T20 champions, with their last two titles coming in 2024 and 2026. The most exciting part of India's T20I team in recent times has been 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. The teenager made his India debut earlier this year against England, and Kiwi head coach Rob Walter wants to see how Sooryavanshi performs on New Zealand pitches. Kiwi coach Rob Walter waiting for Sooryavanshi to come to New Zealand "I’d love to see him on pacy and bouncy wickets and see how different that looks. But he’s an exciting player. You’ve seen him dominate against the world’s best bowlers in the IPL. I think the challenge is always to see how that translates to different conditions, and also how we bowl to him in our conditions,” Walter said during a media interaction. Also Read - 'India benchmark for all Pakistani teams,' says head coach Mike Hesson ahead of Asian Games As for how he wants New Zealand to perform against Sooryavanshi and India, Walter added: "Again, secretly as a coach, you always want to see your players under a little bit of pressure and how we respond to that. So I am looking forward to it, if that is the case. If he’s not here, they do have a lot of very good players other than him." India tour of New Zealand India will play five T20Is, five ODIs, and two Tests on the tour, which will begin with the T20I series on October 22 in Christchurch. The next four matches of the T20I series will be played on October 24, October 27, October 30, and November 1 in Christchurch, Wellington, Auckland, and Hamilton, respectively. After the T20Is come the ODIs, with matches scheduled for November 4 in Auckland, November 7 in Wellington, November 10 in Hamilton, and November 13 and November 15 in Mount Maunganui. The first Test starts on November 19 in Wellington, and the second Test is scheduled from November 27 in Christchurch.

Kiwi coach Rob Walter challenged 15-year-old India phenom Vaibhav Sooryavanshi to adapt to pacy NZ pitches during India's upcoming tour (5 T20Is, 5 ODIs, 2 Tests) starting Oct 22 in Christchurch.

New Zealand coach Walter wants to see India's Sooryavanshi 'on pacy and bouncy wickets'

The Indian Premier League (IPL) mini-auction ahead of the 2027 season will be held in Goa in December. The development was confirmed by BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia on Wednesday (Sep 23) in a conversation with news agency ANI. This is the first time the IPL is holding an auction in India after holding it abroad for the last three times. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), however, is yet to announce the dates of the auction as well as the player retention dates, which are usually announced by late November.<h2>IPL mini-auction to be held in Goa ahead of 2027 season</h2>The BCCI held the IPL auction in Saudi Arabia, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi on the last three occasions, and the upcoming auction marks the return of the high-profile event back to India.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-cherish-my-success-and-accept-failures-with-both-hands-india-head-coach-gambhir-on-his-tenure-so-far-1790165763259">'I cherish my success and accept failures with both hands': India head coach Gambhir on his tenure so far</a>"This year, after hosting the IPL auction in three foreign locations - Saudi Arabia, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi last year - we are going to host it in Goa in the month of December," Saikia said in a conversation with ANI.While the player retention dates have not been announced yet, there has already been movement among franchises. The most notable move was Rishabh Pant going back to Delhi Capitals (DC) from Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in exchange for Kuldeep Yadav, who moved to LSG from DC.Chennai Super Kings (CSK), meanwhile, have announced Zaheer Khan as their new head coach after Stephen Fleming, who held the post for 18 years, stepped down earlier this year. &nbsp;Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), however, are still without a captain following the retirement of Ajinkya Rahane and are expected to take a decision soon.Hardik Pandya, the Mumbai Indians skipper, has also been subjected to trade rumors, including a potential move back to the Gujarat Titans, whom Pandya had taken to an IPL title in the franchise's inaugural season in 2022.

BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed that the IPL 2027 mini-auction will take place in Goa in December, marking its return to India after three consecutive overseas editions. Player retention dates remain unannounced.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) mini-auction ahead of the 2027 season will be held in Goa in December. The development was confirmed by BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia on Wednesday (Sep 23) in a conversation with news agency ANI. This is the first time the IPL is holding an auction in India after holding it abroad for the last three times. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), however, is yet to announce the dates of the auction as well as the player retention dates, which are usually announced by late November. IPL mini-auction to be held in Goa ahead of 2027 season The BCCI held the IPL auction in Saudi Arabia, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi on the last three occasions, and the upcoming auction marks the return of the high-profile event back to India. Also Read - 'I cherish my success and accept failures with both hands': India head coach Gambhir on his tenure so far "This year, after hosting the IPL auction in three foreign locations - Saudi Arabia, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi last year - we are going to host it in Goa in the month of December," Saikia said in a conversation with ANI. While the player retention dates have not been announced yet, there has already been movement among franchises. The most notable move was Rishabh Pant going back to Delhi Capitals (DC) from Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in exchange for Kuldeep Yadav, who moved to LSG from DC. Chennai Super Kings (CSK), meanwhile, have announced Zaheer Khan as their new head coach after Stephen Fleming, who held the post for 18 years, stepped down earlier this year. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), however, are still without a captain following the retirement of Ajinkya Rahane and are expected to take a decision soon. Hardik Pandya, the Mumbai Indians skipper, has also been subjected to trade rumors, including a potential move back to the Gujarat Titans, whom Pandya had taken to an IPL title in the franchise's inaugural season in 2022.

BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed that the IPL 2027 mini-auction will take place in Goa in December, marking its return to India after three consecutive overseas editions. Player retention dates remain unannounced.

IPL 2027 mini-auction to be held in Goa in December, confirms BCCI secretary Saikia

The Indian cricket team has a busy schedule ahead of them for the rest of the year, which begins with hosting the West Indies for a white-ball tour comprising three ODIs and five T20Is. The series begins with the first ODI scheduled for September 27. India will then travel to New Zealand for a full-fledged tour. India head coach Gautam Gambhir, who took over the role after Rahul Dravid stepped down post-T20 World Cup 2024, will be hoping to avenge India's 0-3 loss in the Test series at home against the Kiwis.Under Gambhir, India won two ICC titles - the Champions Trophy 2025 and the T20 World Cup 2026 - but also lost Test series against New Zealand and South Africa at home, as well as an ODI series in Sri Lanka and a T20I series in Ireland. Ahead of the home series against the West Indies, Gambhir, in conversation with JioStar, spoke about his coaching tenure so far and acknowledged having ups and downs.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-jpn-t20i-how-an-overturned-wide-became-point-of-difference-between-india-s-win-and-a-tie-1790133933540">IND vs JPN T20I: How an overturned wide became point of difference</a>"I think I've had my own share of ups and downs; I think I've had my own failures and successes. But again, I've always believed that when you take up that kind of responsibility, there will always be ups and downs. So, whether it was Test cricket, whether it was one-day cricket, or T20 cricket, yes, I've had success, which obviously I will always cherish, but I've had my share of failures as well—which I, again, accept with both hands," Gambhir said about his coaching stint.<h2>Gambhir shares the path going forward</h2>The head coach also spoke about the learnings so far from his coaching tenure, especially for red-ball cricket, which includes the New Zealand tour and then hosting Australia for the five-Test Border-Gavaskar Trophy starting in January next year."I think the best part that has happened is obviously we've played reasonably good Test cricket since England. I'm not saying that we're still not a work in progress, because with the amount of transition that has happened in Test cricket—especially with the likes of Rohit, Virat, and Ashwin leaving, obviously it is very difficult to replace those kinds of players. Because of the amount of talent, experience, and what those guys have done for Indian cricket in red-ball cricket, it's not going to be easy for anyone to replace them, so it will take time," Gambhir noted."I believe that since England, with Shubman taking over, we are heading in the right direction, but we are still a work in progress. I'm sure if we keep backing the right players, we'll reach there and probably Indian cricket will start dominating red-ball cricket for a long, long period of time."If you see in red-ball cricket, look at the number of young guys that are in that red-ball squad, look at their age, and look at the amount of Test matches they've played. So, when you're bringing new guys in, you are obviously trying to make them feel how important Test cricket is, because I am a very big believer that a strong Test-cricketing nation is a strong cricketing nation. It's not the other way around. I've never believed that a strong T20-cricketing nation is a strong cricketing nation. So red-ball still remains our priority."&nbsp;<h2>Where to watch India vs West Indies ODI series live?</h2>&nbsp;India vs West Indies can be watched live from September 27 to October 3 at 2 PM &nbsp;on JioHotstar and Star Sports Network.

Gautam Gambhir reflected on his coaching tenure - citing ICC title wins alongside series losses - as India prepares to host West Indies before touring New Zealand to avenge their 0-3 home Test defeat.

The Indian cricket team has a busy schedule ahead of them for the rest of the year, which begins with hosting the West Indies for a white-ball tour comprising three ODIs and five T20Is. The series begins with the first ODI scheduled for September 27. India will then travel to New Zealand for a full-fledged tour. India head coach Gautam Gambhir, who took over the role after Rahul Dravid stepped down post-T20 World Cup 2024, will be hoping to avenge India's 0-3 loss in the Test series at home against the Kiwis. Under Gambhir, India won two ICC titles - the Champions Trophy 2025 and the T20 World Cup 2026 - but also lost Test series against New Zealand and South Africa at home, as well as an ODI series in Sri Lanka and a T20I series in Ireland. Ahead of the home series against the West Indies, Gambhir, in conversation with JioStar, spoke about his coaching tenure so far and acknowledged having ups and downs. Also Read - IND vs JPN T20I: How an overturned wide became point of difference "I think I've had my own share of ups and downs; I think I've had my own failures and successes. But again, I've always believed that when you take up that kind of responsibility, there will always be ups and downs. So, whether it was Test cricket, whether it was one-day cricket, or T20 cricket, yes, I've had success, which obviously I will always cherish, but I've had my share of failures as well—which I, again, accept with both hands," Gambhir said about his coaching stint. Gambhir shares the path going forward The head coach also spoke about the learnings so far from his coaching tenure, especially for red-ball cricket, which includes the New Zealand tour and then hosting Australia for the five-Test Border-Gavaskar Trophy starting in January next year. "I think the best part that has happened is obviously we've played reasonably good Test cricket since England. I'm not saying that we're still not a work in progress, because with the amount of transition that has happened in Test cricket—especially with the likes of Rohit, Virat, and Ashwin leaving, obviously it is very difficult to replace those kinds of players. Because of the amount of talent, experience, and what those guys have done for Indian cricket in red-ball cricket, it's not going to be easy for anyone to replace them, so it will take time," Gambhir noted. "I believe that since England, with Shubman taking over, we are heading in the right direction, but we are still a work in progress. I'm sure if we keep backing the right players, we'll reach there and probably Indian cricket will start dominating red-ball cricket for a long, long period of time. "If you see in red-ball cricket, look at the number of young guys that are in that red-ball squad, look at their age, and look at the amount of Test matches they've played. So, when you're bringing new guys in, you are obviously trying to make them feel how important Test cricket is, because I am a very big believer that a strong Test-cricketing nation is a strong cricketing nation. It's not the other way around. I've never believed that a strong T20-cricketing nation is a strong cricketing nation. So red-ball still remains our priority." Where to watch India vs West Indies ODI series live? India vs West Indies can be watched live from September 27 to October 3 at 2 PM on JioHotstar and Star Sports Network.

Gautam Gambhir reflected on his coaching tenure - citing ICC title wins alongside series losses - as India prepares to host West Indies before touring New Zealand to avenge their 0-3 home Test defeat.

'I cherish my success and accept failures with both hands': India head coach Gambhir on his tenure so far

India survived a scare against Japan in the one-off T20I on Tuesday (Sep 22) to win the maiden Suzuki Cup. Defending 32 runs in the five-over-per-side match, India registered a two-run victory. The result could have been very different if the Japan batters had hit a boundary off the last ball or if the wide ball hadn't been reversed. With Japan needing 9 runs off the last over, spinner Axar Patel gave away just one run off the first two balls, but then the drama began: he bowled a wide and then another, but the second was overturned, leaving Japan needing 7 off 3 balls, which they failed to score.<h2>Why did the umpire give it a wide?</h2>After scoring just one run off the first two balls, Alexander Shirai-Patmore tried a reverse sweep and umpire Chris Thurgate, who had stood in 17 T20Is before this match, called it a wide. Axar bowled the next ball the same as the previous one and the batter played the exact same shot. The umpire again gave it a wide, after which the Indian camp protested. Square leg umpire Chris Brown, a member of the ICC's elite panel, discussed the decision with Thurgate, and the decision was overturned.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-ftp-2027-2031-t20i-expansion-fewer-odis-schedule-1790102887873">ICC plans T20I expansion and fewer ODIs in 2027–2031 FTP cycle: Report</a><h2>What does the rule say?</h2>According to ICC rules, if a batter tries to reverse sweep a ball, the leg-side delivery in the new stance is reachable, and the ball—if missed—is no longer a wide. The same rule applies when the batter tries to play a switch hit (changing grip and stance). The ball will not be called a wide even if the batter changes stance after the ball has been released; therefore, reversing the wide call was the right decision by the umpire."It should not have been a wide because, as per the laws of the game, be it a switch-hit or reverse-sweep, once you attempt, abort, or even end up playing it, both sides become off-side. So the 17-inch mark for wide deliveries will be accounted for. So unless the ball goes past that mark, it will remain a legal delivery," said an ICC umpire in conversation with The Indian Express.The overturned wide eventually became the difference between Japan's loss and a tied game.

India beat Japan by two runs in a 5-over Suzuki Cup T20I after a controversial wide call was overturned when Japan attempted a reverse sweep. Under ICC rules, reverse sweeps remove leg-side wide protection.

India survived a scare against Japan in the one-off T20I on Tuesday (Sep 22) to win the maiden Suzuki Cup. Defending 32 runs in the five-over-per-side match, India registered a two-run victory. The result could have been very different if the Japan batters had hit a boundary off the last ball or if the wide ball hadn't been reversed. With Japan needing 9 runs off the last over, spinner Axar Patel gave away just one run off the first two balls, but then the drama began: he bowled a wide and then another, but the second was overturned, leaving Japan needing 7 off 3 balls, which they failed to score. Why did the umpire give it a wide? After scoring just one run off the first two balls, Alexander Shirai-Patmore tried a reverse sweep and umpire Chris Thurgate, who had stood in 17 T20Is before this match, called it a wide. Axar bowled the next ball the same as the previous one and the batter played the exact same shot. The umpire again gave it a wide, after which the Indian camp protested. Square leg umpire Chris Brown, a member of the ICC's elite panel, discussed the decision with Thurgate, and the decision was overturned. Also Read - ICC plans T20I expansion and fewer ODIs in 2027–2031 FTP cycle: Report What does the rule say? According to ICC rules, if a batter tries to reverse sweep a ball, the leg-side delivery in the new stance is reachable, and the ball—if missed—is no longer a wide. The same rule applies when the batter tries to play a switch hit (changing grip and stance). The ball will not be called a wide even if the batter changes stance after the ball has been released; therefore, reversing the wide call was the right decision by the umpire. "It should not have been a wide because, as per the laws of the game, be it a switch-hit or reverse-sweep, once you attempt, abort, or even end up playing it, both sides become off-side. So the 17-inch mark for wide deliveries will be accounted for. So unless the ball goes past that mark, it will remain a legal delivery," said an ICC umpire in conversation with The Indian Express. The overturned wide eventually became the difference between Japan's loss and a tied game.

India beat Japan by two runs in a 5-over Suzuki Cup T20I after a controversial wide call was overturned when Japan attempted a reverse sweep. Under ICC rules, reverse sweeps remove leg-side wide protection.

IND vs JPN T20I: How an overturned wide became point of difference between India's win and a tie

The Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) has written to the BCCI to probe allegations of corruption in the concluded season of the Delhi Premier League (DPL 2026). The DDCA has issued a statement saying it was premature to draw conclusions and to let the ‘respective authorities’ investigate the matter through established processes.&nbsp;Delhi’s cricket authority released this statement hours after a Tehelka report quoted a former Ranji Trophy player claiming to have inside access to team information and the ability to facilitate spot-fixing in the DPL.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/how-zaheer-khan-came-to-be-csk-s-head-coach-of-ipl-2027-1790047795366">How Zaheer Khan came to be CSK's head coach of IPL 2027</a>&nbsp;"The Delhi and District Cricket Association has taken note of recent reports concerning irregularities involving certain players and a franchise associated with the Delhi Premier League (DPL)," the DDCA said in its statement, without naming the individuals or team. "DDCA would like to clarify that the allegations referred to in these reports are unverified and have not been established by any competent authority. The association believes it would be inappropriate to conclude any individual, player or franchise based solely on such allegations.&nbsp;"Given the seriousness of the matter, DDCA has written to the respective authorities and shared the information that has come to its notice, requesting that the matter be examined through the appropriate established processes.&nbsp;"DDCA believes it is important to distinguish between allegations and established facts and allow the due process to take its course. The association remains committed to safeguarding the integrity, credibility and reputation of cricket in Delhi."&nbsp;Meanwhile, the game in question was the seventh match of DPL 2026, played between Central Delhi Kings and North Delhi Strikers at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. Former Ranji player Rachit Bhatia, on camera (during a sting operation), revealed that he shared valuable information even before the toss. He also claims to have fixed some Chennai Super Kings (CSK) matches in IPL 2025, and been engaging in spot-fixing during the 2018-19 edition of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.&nbsp;His cricket record, however, suggests that Bhatia has played two T20s for Nagaland in that season, taking two wickets.<h2>Vansh Bedi Connection</h2>Unaware he was being recorded, Bhatia detailed his alleged past involvement in spot-fixing, mentioning that if either DPL or IPL matches were to be fixed, he would use the same CSK player (Vansh Bedi, who also plays in DPL) to obtain valuable information.&nbsp;Vansh, who was picked by CSK for INR 55 lakh ahead of the 2025 auction, would face dire consequences if caught in any wrongdoing.&nbsp;“He is in our team, he is fully part of it, and he has played for the state from here…If fingers are pointed at him and an investigation takes place, then if he has done something, he will face the consequences. And if he hasn't, he will come out clean,” Ashok Sharma, DDCA Director, said in an exclusive chat with Hindustan Times (HT).&nbsp;“Why should we jump to conclusions right away? Once we receive an official letter from the BCCI, we’ll have our anti-corruption department check everything and verify all his details, phone records, and whatever else is possible at that time, because the anti-corruption department at that time belonged to the BCCI. So that entire system was managed by them. Whatever the BCCI says and whatever the president says, we will abide by it,” he added.

The DDCA has written to the BCCI requesting an official probe into match-fixing allegations surrounding DPL 2026 following a Tehelka sting operation. Read the latest updates.

The Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) has written to the BCCI to probe allegations of corruption in the concluded season of the Delhi Premier League (DPL 2026). The DDCA has issued a statement saying it was premature to draw conclusions and to let the ‘respective authorities’ investigate the matter through established processes. Delhi’s cricket authority released this statement hours after a Tehelka report quoted a former Ranji Trophy player claiming to have inside access to team information and the ability to facilitate spot-fixing in the DPL. Also read| How Zaheer Khan came to be CSK's head coach of IPL 2027 "The Delhi and District Cricket Association has taken note of recent reports concerning irregularities involving certain players and a franchise associated with the Delhi Premier League (DPL)," the DDCA said in its statement, without naming the individuals or team. "DDCA would like to clarify that the allegations referred to in these reports are unverified and have not been established by any competent authority. The association believes it would be inappropriate to conclude any individual, player or franchise based solely on such allegations. "Given the seriousness of the matter, DDCA has written to the respective authorities and shared the information that has come to its notice, requesting that the matter be examined through the appropriate established processes. "DDCA believes it is important to distinguish between allegations and established facts and allow the due process to take its course. The association remains committed to safeguarding the integrity, credibility and reputation of cricket in Delhi." Meanwhile, the game in question was the seventh match of DPL 2026, played between Central Delhi Kings and North Delhi Strikers at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. Former Ranji player Rachit Bhatia, on camera (during a sting operation), revealed that he shared valuable information even before the toss. He also claims to have fixed some Chennai Super Kings (CSK) matches in IPL 2025, and been engaging in spot-fixing during the 2018-19 edition of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. His cricket record, however, suggests that Bhatia has played two T20s for Nagaland in that season, taking two wickets. Vansh Bedi Connection Unaware he was being recorded, Bhatia detailed his alleged past involvement in spot-fixing, mentioning that if either DPL or IPL matches were to be fixed, he would use the same CSK player (Vansh Bedi, who also plays in DPL) to obtain valuable information. Vansh, who was picked by CSK for INR 55 lakh ahead of the 2025 auction, would face dire consequences if caught in any wrongdoing. “He is in our team, he is fully part of it, and he has played for the state from here…If fingers are pointed at him and an investigation takes place, then if he has done something, he will face the consequences. And if he hasn't, he will come out clean,” Ashok Sharma, DDCA Director, said in an exclusive chat with Hindustan Times (HT). “Why should we jump to conclusions right away? Once we receive an official letter from the BCCI, we’ll have our anti-corruption department check everything and verify all his details, phone records, and whatever else is possible at that time, because the anti-corruption department at that time belonged to the BCCI. So that entire system was managed by them. Whatever the BCCI says and whatever the president says, we will abide by it,” he added.

The DDCA has written to the BCCI requesting an official probe into match-fixing allegations surrounding DPL 2026 following a Tehelka sting operation. Read the latest updates.

DDCA seeks BCCI probe after match-fixing allegations rock Delhi Premier League

India survived a scare against Japan to win the one-off T20I on Tuesday (Sep 22) and claim the first-ever Suzuki Cup with a two-run win in Sano. The rain-affected contest saw overs being reduced to 5 overs per side from the full 20 overs, and India came out victorious after an early batting setback. Chasing a target of 33 runs, Japan, playing for the first time against India, failed to score the boundary needed on the last ball to win the match and managed 30 runs for the loss of three wickets. Japan's bowling performance, however, was exemplary against two-time T20 World Cup champions India.<h2>Japan bowling shocks India batters in Suzuki Cup</h2>After rain reduced the match to five overs per side, India won the toss and skipper Shreyas Iyer decided to bat first. The decision proved costly instantly, with dashing opener Abhishek Sharma getting out for a first-ball duck on the last ball of the first over. Abhishek's partner Sanju Samson (9 off 7 balls) was next to get out two balls later, and Ishan Kishan (3 off 6 balls) followed him back to the dressing room in the next over. Skipper Iyer scored 16 off 12 balls before getting out on the penultimate ball, as India scored 32/4 in 5 overs.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asian-games-2026-india-beat-sri-lanka-in-final-to-defend-women-s-cricket-gold-1790064346884">Asian Games 2026: India beat Sri Lanka in final to defend women's cricket gold</a>Chasing the target, Axar Patel bowled the first over for India as Japan scored only two runs and lost Lachlan Yamamoto-Lake (1) to a run-out. Washington Sundar bowled the next over and dismissed Ibrahim Takahashi (4), conceding six runs in the over. Ravi Bishnoi came next and gave away 10 runs as Japan dreamt of doing the unthinkable. In the fourth over, Sundar gave away seven runs in the first five balls but dismissed Kendel Kadowaki-Fleming (12) to tilt the match into India's favor once more.Axar Patel bowled the last over and gave away just five runs, defending the 8 runs needed by Japan, including denying the boundary off the last ball as India won the match by two runs.<h2>What did the captains say after the match?</h2>Speaking at the post-match presentation, India skipper Iyer said: "(The pitch) was turning square, was a very difficult wicket to bat on. We saw the openers as well, not being able to gauge the pace of the spin. I decided it's easy to take singles and doubles, interact with the batsman who came in with me. Decided I'll be playing on the merit of the ball. If the ball is turning and holding a bit, I'll nudge for singles and doubles... See I always keep saying five overs game, it can go anywhere. Attitude Japanese team showed today is impeccable. I'm sure they're on the right track, for us it was a great practice on the wicket."Japan skipper Kadowaki-Fleming added: "When it gets that tough, it gets a little tough to take. The fact that we were able to run the best team in the world to the last ball... Proud of the cricket group and broader community. The people working on this ground through the whole night, made this game happened. Proud of not only the team but the broader community. Anything is possible was the attitude. Axar, Bishnoi bowling on our wicket, we knew it was going to be a challenge, but at 6.5 RPO you know your mind wanders... A couple of moments will wander in our mind on long bus ride. It's a feeling of pride."

Chasing a target of 33 runs, Japan, playing for the first time against India, failed to score boundary needed on the last ball to win the match and managed 30 runs for loss of three wickets.

India survived a scare against Japan to win the one-off T20I on Tuesday (Sep 22) and claim the first-ever Suzuki Cup with a two-run win in Sano. The rain-affected contest saw overs being reduced to 5 overs per side from the full 20 overs, and India came out victorious after an early batting setback. Chasing a target of 33 runs, Japan, playing for the first time against India, failed to score the boundary needed on the last ball to win the match and managed 30 runs for the loss of three wickets. Japan's bowling performance, however, was exemplary against two-time T20 World Cup champions India. Japan bowling shocks India batters in Suzuki Cup After rain reduced the match to five overs per side, India won the toss and skipper Shreyas Iyer decided to bat first. The decision proved costly instantly, with dashing opener Abhishek Sharma getting out for a first-ball duck on the last ball of the first over. Abhishek's partner Sanju Samson (9 off 7 balls) was next to get out two balls later, and Ishan Kishan (3 off 6 balls) followed him back to the dressing room in the next over. Skipper Iyer scored 16 off 12 balls before getting out on the penultimate ball, as India scored 32/4 in 5 overs. Also Read - Asian Games 2026: India beat Sri Lanka in final to defend women's cricket gold Chasing the target, Axar Patel bowled the first over for India as Japan scored only two runs and lost Lachlan Yamamoto-Lake (1) to a run-out. Washington Sundar bowled the next over and dismissed Ibrahim Takahashi (4), conceding six runs in the over. Ravi Bishnoi came next and gave away 10 runs as Japan dreamt of doing the unthinkable. In the fourth over, Sundar gave away seven runs in the first five balls but dismissed Kendel Kadowaki-Fleming (12) to tilt the match into India's favor once more. Axar Patel bowled the last over and gave away just five runs, defending the 8 runs needed by Japan, including denying the boundary off the last ball as India won the match by two runs. What did the captains say after the match? Speaking at the post-match presentation, India skipper Iyer said: "(The pitch) was turning square, was a very difficult wicket to bat on. We saw the openers as well, not being able to gauge the pace of the spin. I decided it's easy to take singles and doubles, interact with the batsman who came in with me. Decided I'll be playing on the merit of the ball. If the ball is turning and holding a bit, I'll nudge for singles and doubles... See I always keep saying five overs game, it can go anywhere. Attitude Japanese team showed today is impeccable. I'm sure they're on the right track, for us it was a great practice on the wicket." Japan skipper Kadowaki-Fleming added: "When it gets that tough, it gets a little tough to take. The fact that we were able to run the best team in the world to the last ball... Proud of the cricket group and broader community. The people working on this ground through the whole night, made this game happened. Proud of not only the team but the broader community. Anything is possible was the attitude. Axar, Bishnoi bowling on our wicket, we knew it was going to be a challenge, but at 6.5 RPO you know your mind wanders... A couple of moments will wander in our mind on long bus ride. It's a feeling of pride."

Chasing a target of 33 runs, Japan, playing for the first time against India, failed to score boundary needed on the last ball to win the match and managed 30 runs for loss of three wickets.

IND vs JPN one-off T20I: India survive scare from Japan to win five-over a side match by 2 runs

India and Japan are set for a maiden yet historic face-off in a one-off T20I on Tuesday at the Sano International Stadium, with the Japanese captain Kendel Kadowaki-Fleming calling this a monumental feat for the country’s cricket. The match also fulfils a long-cherished dream for Japan Cricket Association (JCA) CEO Naoki Alex Miyaji, who led the effort to arrange the landmark encounter.&nbsp;“The CEO has had this dream for a long time,” Japan captain Kendel said on the eve of the match against a full-strength Indian team. “When news first came up that we were hosting the Asian Games, Naoki had been talking about the concept of having India here for a game. So, for it to turn into reality is extremely special for a lot of people involved, and as a men's team, we can't wait.”&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asian-games-2026-shafali-verma-century-india-bangladesh-semifinal-1789893890849">Asia Cup finalists India and Sri Lanka to fight for women’s Asian Games gold</a>&nbsp;Reflecting on the JCA’s efforts to convince the BCCI for a one-off T20I against India ahead of their 2026 Asian Games campaign took some doing, on which Kendel said, “It's taken a massive effort from a lot of people involved to make it happen. Credit, of course, goes to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for accepting Japan’s proposal. Also, to our leadership team here at the Japan Cricket Association (JCA), and in particular, the CEO.”&nbsp;Since India usually plays only against top Test-nation teams, Japan knows just how big this opportunity is for their players. Facing the three-time T20 World Cup champions will not only ignite excitement among local fans in Japan, but also inspire the country's next generation of young cricketers.&nbsp;“It's got the potential to accelerate the growth of cricket across the country,” remarks Kendel. “There's going to be more people here than ever before for a cricket match. And clearly the best quality players that we've ever had here as well.”<h2>On Facing Bumrah, Abhishek</h2>India is coming off a 3-0 T20I series win over Afghanistan, where opener Abhishek Sharma smashed a fifty and a hundred (108) — &nbsp;he scored off just 30 balls in the final match. Bumrah, who also returned to action, would have all eyes on him, with Japan’s men’s cricket team all but keen on rubbing shoulders with T20I greats.&nbsp;“It still does sound quite surreal to be hearing about them playing here in Japan. But the Japanese are not overawed by the might of the opposition. I can't guarantee any outcome, but what I can guarantee is that we will try our best. We'll compete, and hopefully, we'll give it our best shot,” Kendel said of Japan’s face-off against India in a chat with Cricbuzz.

Japan captain Kendel Kadowaki-Fleming hails historic one-off T20I against India as a landmark moment to accelerate cricket growth in Japan.

India and Japan are set for a maiden yet historic face-off in a one-off T20I on Tuesday at the Sano International Stadium, with the Japanese captain Kendel Kadowaki-Fleming calling this a monumental feat for the country’s cricket. The match also fulfils a long-cherished dream for Japan Cricket Association (JCA) CEO Naoki Alex Miyaji, who led the effort to arrange the landmark encounter. “The CEO has had this dream for a long time,” Japan captain Kendel said on the eve of the match against a full-strength Indian team. “When news first came up that we were hosting the Asian Games, Naoki had been talking about the concept of having India here for a game. So, for it to turn into reality is extremely special for a lot of people involved, and as a men's team, we can't wait.” Also read| Asia Cup finalists India and Sri Lanka to fight for women’s Asian Games gold Reflecting on the JCA’s efforts to convince the BCCI for a one-off T20I against India ahead of their 2026 Asian Games campaign took some doing, on which Kendel said, “It's taken a massive effort from a lot of people involved to make it happen. Credit, of course, goes to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for accepting Japan’s proposal. Also, to our leadership team here at the Japan Cricket Association (JCA), and in particular, the CEO.” Since India usually plays only against top Test-nation teams, Japan knows just how big this opportunity is for their players. Facing the three-time T20 World Cup champions will not only ignite excitement among local fans in Japan, but also inspire the country's next generation of young cricketers. “It's got the potential to accelerate the growth of cricket across the country,” remarks Kendel. “There's going to be more people here than ever before for a cricket match. And clearly the best quality players that we've ever had here as well.” On Facing Bumrah, Abhishek India is coming off a 3-0 T20I series win over Afghanistan, where opener Abhishek Sharma smashed a fifty and a hundred (108) — he scored off just 30 balls in the final match. Bumrah, who also returned to action, would have all eyes on him, with Japan’s men’s cricket team all but keen on rubbing shoulders with T20I greats. “It still does sound quite surreal to be hearing about them playing here in Japan. But the Japanese are not overawed by the might of the opposition. I can't guarantee any outcome, but what I can guarantee is that we will try our best. We'll compete, and hopefully, we'll give it our best shot,” Kendel said of Japan’s face-off against India in a chat with Cricbuzz.

Japan captain Kendel Kadowaki-Fleming hails historic one-off T20I against India as a landmark moment to accelerate cricket growth in Japan.

'India T20I can accelerate Japan’s cricket growth,' says captain Kendel ahead of historic face-off

Former India spinner Ramesh Powar is likely to be appointed as the new chairman of the BCCI’s national junior selection committee. According to media reports, the BCCI is in the process of forming a new junior selection panel, with Powar expected to head the committee. Powar, who previously coached the Indian women’s team, most recently served as the head coach of Gujarat’s senior men’s side during the 2025-26 season. He has now decided to step away from the role.&nbsp;The BCCI had invited applications for five positions on the junior cricket committee on 24 Aug, 2026. The panel will select India’s age-group teams up to the Under-22 level for domestic and international matches, coaching camps, tours and tournaments.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asian-games-begin-in-aichi-nagoya-as-manu-and-pawan-lead-indian-contingent-1789820537840">Asian Games begin in Aichi-Nagoya as Manu and Pawan lead Indian contingent</a>&nbsp;The committee will also scout young talent, monitor player development, assess team performances and help build a strong bench strength for India’s junior teams. It will also appoint captains, organise junior tournaments and promote awareness about issues such as drugs, betting and match-fixing.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-vs-zim-adam-zampa-joins-shane-warne-in-elite-list-becomes-second-australian-spinner-to-claim-200-odi-wickets-1789817530037">Zampa becomes second Australian spinner to reach 200 ODI wickets</a>&nbsp;Former players with at least 25 First-Class appearances and a minimum of five years since retirement were eligible to apply for the positions.

The BCCI is set to appoint a new junior selection panel, with Ramesh Powar likely to take over as chairman.

Former India spinner Ramesh Powar is likely to be appointed as the new chairman of the BCCI’s national junior selection committee. According to media reports, the BCCI is in the process of forming a new junior selection panel, with Powar expected to head the committee. Powar, who previously coached the Indian women’s team, most recently served as the head coach of Gujarat’s senior men’s side during the 2025-26 season. He has now decided to step away from the role. The BCCI had invited applications for five positions on the junior cricket committee on 24 Aug, 2026. The panel will select India’s age-group teams up to the Under-22 level for domestic and international matches, coaching camps, tours and tournaments. Also Read - Asian Games begin in Aichi-Nagoya as Manu and Pawan lead Indian contingent The committee will also scout young talent, monitor player development, assess team performances and help build a strong bench strength for India’s junior teams. It will also appoint captains, organise junior tournaments and promote awareness about issues such as drugs, betting and match-fixing. Also Read - Zampa becomes second Australian spinner to reach 200 ODI wickets Former players with at least 25 First-Class appearances and a minimum of five years since retirement were eligible to apply for the positions.

The BCCI is set to appoint a new junior selection panel, with Ramesh Powar likely to take over as chairman.

BCCI set to appoint Ramesh Powar as junior selection committee chairman

Indian Cricket stands at a crossroads, with talks about current chief selector Ajit Agarkar not wanting to extend his contract, which ends in 15 days. With reports of the BCCI heads trying to convince him to stay until the 2027 ODI World Cup, board secretary Devajit Saikia said 15 days is a long time in the cricket world, and that the decision on Agarkar’s future will be made at the right time.&nbsp;BCCI’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Friday morning may have decided on Agarkar’s future, but no details were shared during the media interaction.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ajit-agarkar-wants-to-quit-as-chief-selector-informs-bcci-1789747771278">Ajit Agarkar wants to quit as chief selector, informs BCCI</a>&nbsp;“There’s still 15 days left (for Agarkar to complete his term)...15 days is a long time in the world of cricket. We have 15 days; we will take a decision in appropriate time, we will let you know about it,” Saikia said to the media.&nbsp;Earlier reports stated that BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla had said that the ‘office-bearers have been authorised to decide on the senior men’s selection committee.’&nbsp;Meanwhile, if recent developments are to be believed, Team India’s squad selection for the home white-ball series against the West Indies was Agarkar’s last in charge as the head of the men’s selection committee.&nbsp;The board will advertise for the position, followed by interviews, with the whole exercise likely to take some time. In the meantime, the BCCI could appoint an interim chief selector, if the need arises, and former Indian spinner Pragyan Ojha, having played 24 Tests, leads the race owing to test seniority.&nbsp;The BCCI, however, has started to prepare for life after Agarkar, with several names likely doing the rounds. Ex-India keeper-batter Parthiv Patel is the frontrunner to replace Agarkar for the role. On the other hand, VVS Laxman, who often fills in for head coach Gautam Gambhir, was the board’s first choice, but reports suggest that he wasn’t keen on taking up the responsibility.&nbsp;Laxman is the head of BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru, and wishes to continue overseeing that role.<h3>BCCI Meet Absence Indicated Agarkar’s Exit</h3>Agarkar was not part of BCCI’s recently concluded high-profile meeting in Mumbai, which eventually dropped the biggest hint that he has made up his mind. The meeting was attended by the two Indian captains Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer, board secretary Saikia, Laxman and even Gambhir.&nbsp;Although Saikia had then dismissed his absence by saying that Agarkar was out of town and in no internet zone for personal reasons, the BCCI’s official remarks indicated the separation.&nbsp;“It wasn’t that the meeting was decided upon within 48 hours. The chief selector missing such an important conclave where the way forward for Indian cricket was discussed doesn’t make sense,” a BCCI official said. “You have got to be indifferent to what’s happening around to miss such an occasion, and Agarkar is not the sort to do so. He had his plans in place and so skipped it.”<h3>What led to Agarkar’s departure?</h3>Agarkar’s tenure as the chief selector coincided with Indian Cricket’s glorious years, when they won two T20 World Cups and an ICC Champions Trophy, all in the space of three years; however, like how all good things come to an end, so did his tenure.&nbsp;What possibly triggered it was Rohit Sharma’s retirement episode during the UK tour this year, when several reports claimed that the Indian veteran would retire after the final ODI at Lord’s, where he smashed a brilliant hundred in a losing cause.

BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia addresses Ajit Agarkar’s future as chief selector ahead of his contract deadline. Read the latest updates and contenders.

Indian Cricket stands at a crossroads, with talks about current chief selector Ajit Agarkar not wanting to extend his contract, which ends in 15 days. With reports of the BCCI heads trying to convince him to stay until the 2027 ODI World Cup, board secretary Devajit Saikia said 15 days is a long time in the cricket world, and that the decision on Agarkar’s future will be made at the right time. BCCI’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Friday morning may have decided on Agarkar’s future, but no details were shared during the media interaction. Also read| Ajit Agarkar wants to quit as chief selector, informs BCCI “There’s still 15 days left (for Agarkar to complete his term)...15 days is a long time in the world of cricket. We have 15 days; we will take a decision in appropriate time, we will let you know about it,” Saikia said to the media. Earlier reports stated that BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla had said that the ‘office-bearers have been authorised to decide on the senior men’s selection committee.’ Meanwhile, if recent developments are to be believed, Team India’s squad selection for the home white-ball series against the West Indies was Agarkar’s last in charge as the head of the men’s selection committee. The board will advertise for the position, followed by interviews, with the whole exercise likely to take some time. In the meantime, the BCCI could appoint an interim chief selector, if the need arises, and former Indian spinner Pragyan Ojha, having played 24 Tests, leads the race owing to test seniority. The BCCI, however, has started to prepare for life after Agarkar, with several names likely doing the rounds. Ex-India keeper-batter Parthiv Patel is the frontrunner to replace Agarkar for the role. On the other hand, VVS Laxman, who often fills in for head coach Gautam Gambhir, was the board’s first choice, but reports suggest that he wasn’t keen on taking up the responsibility. Laxman is the head of BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru, and wishes to continue overseeing that role. BCCI Meet Absence Indicated Agarkar’s Exit Agarkar was not part of BCCI’s recently concluded high-profile meeting in Mumbai, which eventually dropped the biggest hint that he has made up his mind. The meeting was attended by the two Indian captains Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer, board secretary Saikia, Laxman and even Gambhir. Although Saikia had then dismissed his absence by saying that Agarkar was out of town and in no internet zone for personal reasons, the BCCI’s official remarks indicated the separation. “It wasn’t that the meeting was decided upon within 48 hours. The chief selector missing such an important conclave where the way forward for Indian cricket was discussed doesn’t make sense,” a BCCI official said. “You have got to be indifferent to what’s happening around to miss such an occasion, and Agarkar is not the sort to do so. He had his plans in place and so skipped it.” What led to Agarkar’s departure? Agarkar’s tenure as the chief selector coincided with Indian Cricket’s glorious years, when they won two T20 World Cups and an ICC Champions Trophy, all in the space of three years; however, like how all good things come to an end, so did his tenure. What possibly triggered it was Rohit Sharma’s retirement episode during the UK tour this year, when several reports claimed that the Indian veteran would retire after the final ODI at Lord’s, where he smashed a brilliant hundred in a losing cause.

BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia addresses Ajit Agarkar’s future as chief selector ahead of his contract deadline. Read the latest updates and contenders.

Ajit Agarkar’s future as chief selector to be decided at right time, says BCCI secretary

Ajit Agarkar is set to step down as chairman of the BCCI’s senior men’s selection committee after his current term concludes on Oct 4, according to media reports. Agarkar became India’s chief selector in 2023 and was involved in several major selection decisions during his time as chairman.&nbsp;“Agarkar has formally informed the BCCI just before the Annual General Meeting (AGM) that he doesn’t wish to continue as a selector after his term ends on October 4,” a BCCI office-bearer told The Hindu publication.&nbsp;Former India wicketkeeper-batter Parthiv Patel is reportedly one of the names being considered as his replacement.&nbsp;Hindustan Times also reported that the BCCI has started looking for a new chief selector after receiving communication from Agarkar.&nbsp;“In his communication, Agarkar has cited his previous discussions with the board in February, when he had first alerted top decision makers to look for alternatives at the end of his current term,” a BCCI official told HT.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldo-returns-to-portugal-squad-for-nations-league-under-new-coach-1789736820269">Cristiano Ronaldo returns to Portugal squad for Nations League under new coach</a><h3>BCCI office-bearers to decide on Agarkar’s future</h3>Agarkar’s decision came hours after PTI reported that BCCI member units had authorised the board’s office-bearers to decide whether to extend his tenure or appoint a replacement.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-cannot-bowl-10-overs-gautam-gambhir-reveals-clear-plan-for-hardik-pandya-s-india-return-1789734043605">'He cannot bowl..;': Gambhir reveals clear plan for Hardik Pandya's India return</a>&nbsp;With Agarkar’s contract set to end on Oct 4, he has been in focus as the BCCI considers its options regarding the senior selection committee.&nbsp;“The office bearers have been authorised to take decisions on the matters concerning the selection committees,” a senior BCCI official said after the meeting.&nbsp;Apart from deciding on the chairman of the senior selection committee, the BCCI is also looking to fill all five positions in the junior selection committee.

As chairman of the selection committee, Agarkar was involved in several important selection calls and major decisions concerning India’s squad across formats.

Ajit Agarkar is set to step down as chairman of the BCCI’s senior men’s selection committee after his current term concludes on Oct 4, according to media reports. Agarkar became India’s chief selector in 2023 and was involved in several major selection decisions during his time as chairman. “Agarkar has formally informed the BCCI just before the Annual General Meeting (AGM) that he doesn’t wish to continue as a selector after his term ends on October 4,” a BCCI office-bearer told The Hindu publication. Former India wicketkeeper-batter Parthiv Patel is reportedly one of the names being considered as his replacement. Hindustan Times also reported that the BCCI has started looking for a new chief selector after receiving communication from Agarkar. “In his communication, Agarkar has cited his previous discussions with the board in February, when he had first alerted top decision makers to look for alternatives at the end of his current term,” a BCCI official told HT. Also Read - Cristiano Ronaldo returns to Portugal squad for Nations League under new coach BCCI office-bearers to decide on Agarkar’s future Agarkar’s decision came hours after PTI reported that BCCI member units had authorised the board’s office-bearers to decide whether to extend his tenure or appoint a replacement. Also Read - 'He cannot bowl..;': Gambhir reveals clear plan for Hardik Pandya's India return With Agarkar’s contract set to end on Oct 4, he has been in focus as the BCCI considers its options regarding the senior selection committee. “The office bearers have been authorised to take decisions on the matters concerning the selection committees,” a senior BCCI official said after the meeting. Apart from deciding on the chairman of the senior selection committee, the BCCI is also looking to fill all five positions in the junior selection committee.

As chairman of the selection committee, Agarkar was involved in several important selection calls and major decisions concerning India’s squad across formats.

Ajit Agarkar wants to quit as chief selector, informs BCCI

Sanju Samson may have helped India defend the T20 World Cup in March, but the batter has been under constant scrutiny for his form since then. His lack of runs in IPL 2026 and in subsequent T20I matches coincided with the rise of Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who won the Orange Cap in IPL 2026 for scoring the most runs (776). Since the IPL, India have played three T20I series — against Ireland, England, and Zimbabwe - while the fourth series against Afghanistan is currently underway. Across these series, Samson has featured in six matches: two each against Ireland, England, and Afghanistan.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ex-india-all-rounder-yuvraj-singh-wants-india-to-avoid-massive-changes-before-odi-world-cup-2027-1789529543148">Ex-India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh wants India to avoid 'massive changes' before ODI World Cup 2027</a>He was rested for the Zimbabwe series and was dropped from the last three of five T20Is against England in favor of Sooryavanshi. His best T20I score since the 2026 T20 World Cup is 57, which came against Afghanistan in the second T20I on Tuesday (September 15) in New Delhi. The batter, however, is aware of the challenges his lack of runs poses and that Sooryavanshi, at 15 years of age, is waiting in the wings for his turn.<h2>Samson opens up on competition with Sooryavanshi</h2>"A 15-year-old kid is coming on the back of scoring 700–800 runs (in the IPL). The tournament I did well at (T20 World Cup) was before that. His performance was more recent. He had to come in, in some manner or another. I did not perform in two or three games and he was in form, and we wanted to win games in that series. It was very understandable from a leadership point of view. I have been in this situation as an IPL captain. I have also taken tough calls," Samson said after the second T20I against Afghanistan regarding Sooryavanshi being picked ahead of him in the England T20Is.The batter also addressed the online criticism regarding his lack of runs, sharing: "Being an Indian cricketer, it’s not easy to face failures, but that’s where my experience comes in. I try to shut out the noise and be confident. I come out and still keep scoring at a high strike rate — even taking chances, knowing that if I fail again, I’ll be facing a lot of noise again. But that’s the way we are built in Indian cricket, and I just go out there and try to contribute."<h2>What Next for Samson and India?</h2>After his match-winning 57 off 22 balls, Samson is almost certain to play the third and final T20I against Afghanistan on September 19. Following the series, India travel to Japan for the Asian Games, where Samson has been included in the squad.

Despite form struggles and pressure from 15-year-old IPL star Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Sanju Samson's match-winning 57 vs Afghanistan may have secured his T20 spot ahead of the upcoming Asian Games.

Sanju Samson may have helped India defend the T20 World Cup in March, but the batter has been under constant scrutiny for his form since then. His lack of runs in IPL 2026 and in subsequent T20I matches coincided with the rise of Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who won the Orange Cap in IPL 2026 for scoring the most runs (776). Since the IPL, India have played three T20I series — against Ireland, England, and Zimbabwe - while the fourth series against Afghanistan is currently underway. Across these series, Samson has featured in six matches: two each against Ireland, England, and Afghanistan. Also Read - Ex-India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh wants India to avoid 'massive changes' before ODI World Cup 2027 He was rested for the Zimbabwe series and was dropped from the last three of five T20Is against England in favor of Sooryavanshi. His best T20I score since the 2026 T20 World Cup is 57, which came against Afghanistan in the second T20I on Tuesday (September 15) in New Delhi. The batter, however, is aware of the challenges his lack of runs poses and that Sooryavanshi, at 15 years of age, is waiting in the wings for his turn. Samson opens up on competition with Sooryavanshi "A 15-year-old kid is coming on the back of scoring 700–800 runs (in the IPL). The tournament I did well at (T20 World Cup) was before that. His performance was more recent. He had to come in, in some manner or another. I did not perform in two or three games and he was in form, and we wanted to win games in that series. It was very understandable from a leadership point of view. I have been in this situation as an IPL captain. I have also taken tough calls," Samson said after the second T20I against Afghanistan regarding Sooryavanshi being picked ahead of him in the England T20Is. The batter also addressed the online criticism regarding his lack of runs, sharing: "Being an Indian cricketer, it’s not easy to face failures, but that’s where my experience comes in. I try to shut out the noise and be confident. I come out and still keep scoring at a high strike rate — even taking chances, knowing that if I fail again, I’ll be facing a lot of noise again. But that’s the way we are built in Indian cricket, and I just go out there and try to contribute." What Next for Samson and India? After his match-winning 57 off 22 balls, Samson is almost certain to play the third and final T20I against Afghanistan on September 19. Following the series, India travel to Japan for the Asian Games, where Samson has been included in the squad.

Despite form struggles and pressure from 15-year-old IPL star Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Sanju Samson's match-winning 57 vs Afghanistan may have secured his T20 spot ahead of the upcoming Asian Games.

'He had to come in': Samson opens up on competition from Vaibhav Sooryavanshi for India T20I opening spot

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

India's Smriti Mandhana, who broke two records in women's cricket on Thursday (Sep 3) during the ongoing Women's Asia Cup 2026 in Dubai, UAE, says 'it is just the start.' Mandhana hit a 64-ball 124 against Hong Kong Women and became the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/women-s-asia-cup-2026-india-s-smriti-mandhana-is-now-best-batter-ever-in-women-s-cricket-1788491747077">all-time highest run-getter in women's international cricket as well as the player with the most international centuries</a>. She went past former India women's captain Mithali Raj for the most runs, and Meg Lanning as well as Laura Wolvaardt for the most international tons. Mandhana now has 10,880 runs in all international cricket to go with 18 tons.<h2>Mandhana reacts to breaking batting records in women's cricket</h2>"Till I was batting, I didn't know what record because I didn't know what were the exact runs or all of that," Mandhana said after the match in Dubai. "But yeah, looking back, definitely a very good day for Indian cricket, I would say. Of course, Mithali di has been such a legend and a role model, and we've all grown up watching her bat, so to go past her in the tally of runs is [something] I definitely never imagined to do. But happy that there are two Indians at the top two."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/did-cricket-end-in-india-after-loss-to-ireland-pcb-chief-mohsin-naqvi-defends-pakistan-cricket-amid-meltdown-1788506201199">'Did cricket end in IND after loss to Ireland?' PCB chief on Pak Cricket decline</a> "Going past the international record of the centuries, I mean, 18 is a good number to go past, firstly I will say that," Mandhana said. "But again, two of the legends of women's cricket, Meg Lanning and Mithali Raj. Genuinely, these are the two people who I have grown up watching a lot of my cricket, tried to take a lot of things from them as batters. So really happy that I could go past them in whatever way. But again, it's just the start I would say."<h2>India beat HK-W to enter semis</h2>Thanks to Mandhana, India posted 193/5 in 20 overs against HK-W in a Women's Asia Cup 2026 group stage fixture. She hit 14 fours and seven sixes in her innings — becoming India's highest six-hitter with a total tally of 95 and the fourth highest in the world. In reply, HK-W were bowled out for a paltry score of 56 in 16.2 overs. For India, Nandani Sharma, Shree Charani, and Prema Rawat took two wickets apiece, while Deepti Sharma picked up 3/9 as India won by 137 runs. India next play against arch-rivals Pakistan Women on Saturday (Sep 5).

Smriti Mandhana smashed a 64-ball 124 against Hong Kong Women, becoming the all-time leading run-scorer (10,880) and most century-maker (18) in women's internationals, powering India to a 137-run win.

India's Smriti Mandhana, who broke two records in women's cricket on Thursday (Sep 3) during the ongoing Women's Asia Cup 2026 in Dubai, UAE, says 'it is just the start.' Mandhana hit a 64-ball 124 against Hong Kong Women and became the all-time highest run-getter in women's international cricket as well as the player with the most international centuries. She went past former India women's captain Mithali Raj for the most runs, and Meg Lanning as well as Laura Wolvaardt for the most international tons. Mandhana now has 10,880 runs in all international cricket to go with 18 tons. Mandhana reacts to breaking batting records in women's cricket "Till I was batting, I didn't know what record because I didn't know what were the exact runs or all of that," Mandhana said after the match in Dubai. "But yeah, looking back, definitely a very good day for Indian cricket, I would say. Of course, Mithali di has been such a legend and a role model, and we've all grown up watching her bat, so to go past her in the tally of runs is [something] I definitely never imagined to do. But happy that there are two Indians at the top two." Also Read - 'Did cricket end in IND after loss to Ireland?' PCB chief on Pak Cricket decline "Going past the international record of the centuries, I mean, 18 is a good number to go past, firstly I will say that," Mandhana said. "But again, two of the legends of women's cricket, Meg Lanning and Mithali Raj. Genuinely, these are the two people who I have grown up watching a lot of my cricket, tried to take a lot of things from them as batters. So really happy that I could go past them in whatever way. But again, it's just the start I would say." India beat HK-W to enter semis Thanks to Mandhana, India posted 193/5 in 20 overs against HK-W in a Women's Asia Cup 2026 group stage fixture. She hit 14 fours and seven sixes in her innings — becoming India's highest six-hitter with a total tally of 95 and the fourth highest in the world. In reply, HK-W were bowled out for a paltry score of 56 in 16.2 overs. For India, Nandani Sharma, Shree Charani, and Prema Rawat took two wickets apiece, while Deepti Sharma picked up 3/9 as India won by 137 runs. India next play against arch-rivals Pakistan Women on Saturday (Sep 5).

Smriti Mandhana smashed a 64-ball 124 against Hong Kong Women, becoming the all-time leading run-scorer (10,880) and most century-maker (18) in women's internationals, powering India to a 137-run win.

'Never imagined': India's Smriti Mandhana reacts to breaking women's batting record

Pakistan Cricket is in turmoil after the Test series loss in England, and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi has defended the actions taken mid-tour. The Pakistan management, after the 194-run loss in the second of the three-Test series, sent back seven players from the 15-man squad and sacked red-ball head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed as well as bowling coach Umar Gul. The move drew sharp criticism from former coaches and players, given one more Test is left to be played in the series. Naqvi, however, backed the action and called out former players for discouraging the current players.<h2>PCB chairman Naqvi cites India's loss to Ireland in defense of declining Pakistan cricket</h2>Pakistan lost the first Test against England by an innings and the second Test by 194 runs, putting them at the bottom of the <a href="https://www.icc-cricket.com/tournaments/world-test-championship/standings">World Test Championship (WTC) 2025–27 cycle points table</a>. Once an Asian giant, Pakistan now have lost 15 of its last 20 Tests. Their record in the white-ball format isn't good either, as they failed to make it to the semis in the last three ICC tournaments — 2024 T20 World Cup (group stage), 2025 Champions Trophy (group stage), and 2026 T20 World Cup (Super Eight).Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/women-s-asia-cup-2026-india-s-smriti-mandhana-is-now-best-batter-ever-in-women-s-cricket-1788491747077">Women's Asia Cup 2026: India's Smriti Mandhana is now best batter ever in women's cricket</a>Naqvi, meanwhile, cited South Africa and India's recent losses to Namibia and Ireland, respectively, to reject the 'cricket has died in Pakistan' narrative."Did cricket come to an end in South Africa and India after they lost to Namibia and Ireland? Every match of a series is important for us and we are not left with any option if a player is not performing but to look for his replacement. The purpose behind these changes is not to axe players from contention, but just to replace them," said Naqvi in a conversation with Pakistan-based broadcaster Geo TV.<h2>Naqvi hits back at former players for criticism</h2>After the board's decision to send back players and coaches mid-tour, former skipper Shahid Afridi and Shoaib Malik had hit out at the board. Naqvi, without taking names, called out the former players for their criticism."It is not acceptable for those [former] players who have not achieved anything in life to push this narrative. I would not allow anyone to blame the players for the sake of it and ask everyone to stop demotivating the players. It is unfair," he said.

PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi defended sending 7 players and 2 coaches home mid-tour after a Test series loss to England. Citing India’s loss to Ireland, he rejected claims that Pakistan cricket is dead.

Pakistan Cricket is in turmoil after the Test series loss in England, and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi has defended the actions taken mid-tour. The Pakistan management, after the 194-run loss in the second of the three-Test series, sent back seven players from the 15-man squad and sacked red-ball head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed as well as bowling coach Umar Gul. The move drew sharp criticism from former coaches and players, given one more Test is left to be played in the series. Naqvi, however, backed the action and called out former players for discouraging the current players. PCB chairman Naqvi cites India's loss to Ireland in defense of declining Pakistan cricket Pakistan lost the first Test against England by an innings and the second Test by 194 runs, putting them at the bottom of the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025–27 cycle points table. Once an Asian giant, Pakistan now have lost 15 of its last 20 Tests. Their record in the white-ball format isn't good either, as they failed to make it to the semis in the last three ICC tournaments — 2024 T20 World Cup (group stage), 2025 Champions Trophy (group stage), and 2026 T20 World Cup (Super Eight). Also Read - Women's Asia Cup 2026: India's Smriti Mandhana is now best batter ever in women's cricket Naqvi, meanwhile, cited South Africa and India's recent losses to Namibia and Ireland, respectively, to reject the 'cricket has died in Pakistan' narrative. "Did cricket come to an end in South Africa and India after they lost to Namibia and Ireland? Every match of a series is important for us and we are not left with any option if a player is not performing but to look for his replacement. The purpose behind these changes is not to axe players from contention, but just to replace them," said Naqvi in a conversation with Pakistan-based broadcaster Geo TV. Naqvi hits back at former players for criticism After the board's decision to send back players and coaches mid-tour, former skipper Shahid Afridi and Shoaib Malik had hit out at the board. Naqvi, without taking names, called out the former players for their criticism. "It is not acceptable for those [former] players who have not achieved anything in life to push this narrative. I would not allow anyone to blame the players for the sake of it and ask everyone to stop demotivating the players. It is unfair," he said.

PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi defended sending 7 players and 2 coaches home mid-tour after a Test series loss to England. Citing India’s loss to Ireland, he rejected claims that Pakistan cricket is dead.

'Did cricket end in India after loss to Ireland?' PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi defends Pakistan Cricket amid meltdown

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is keen to keep players fit after a recent spate of injuries to multiple players. The board, along with head coach Gautam Gambhir, Centre of Excellence (CoE) chief VVS Laxman, ODI and Test captain Shubman Gill, and T20I skipper Shreyas Iyer, met in Mumbai on Thursday (Sep 3) to discuss the matter. The top-brass meeting with BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia came after recent T20I series losses against Ireland and England, as well as an ODI series loss against the latter. Many players, including Jasprit Bumrah, Washington Sundar, Harshit Rana, and Nitish Reddy, were either injured on the UK tour or in the lead-up to it, which eventually reflected in the results.<h2>How the BCCI plans to keep players injury-free</h2>The board secretary acknowledged, while talking after the Thursday meeting as reported by ESPNcricinfo, that "individual players are having injuries because they have to play a lot of matches."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/women-s-asia-cup-2026-india-s-smriti-mandhana-is-now-best-batter-ever-in-women-s-cricket-1788491747077">Women's Asia Cup 2026: India's Smriti Mandhana is now best batter ever in women's cricket</a>The players who were selected for the UK tour had played in the IPL for two months right before it, which "takes a toll on the health of the players as well. And to avoid those kinds of situations, what best we can do under the present windows and present FTPs, we are trying to find a way forward.""The only challenges which we are facing is that there are too many matches in the year and that is why in the next FTP, we will do certain things, we will take certain measures," he said. "We have instructed our FTP person, who will be meeting very soon in various international forums, that our FTP should be scheduled in such a way that there is proper rest for the players as well as some kind of acclimatisation or friendly matches before any major series in SENA countries."<h2>What is next for the Indian men's cricket team?</h2>The Indian men's team recently returned from Sri Lanka, where they won the two-Test series 1-0. The team next plays three T20Is against Afghanistan on Sep 13, 15, and 17 in New Delhi. After that, the Indian team will compete in the Asian Games 2026 in Japan, where the board has announced a full-strength squad.

Following player injury concerns, the BCCI met with leadership—including Gautam Gambhir, VVS Laxman, Shubman Gill, and Shreyas Iyer—to plan workload fixes and FTP scheduling changes for rest.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is keen to keep players fit after a recent spate of injuries to multiple players. The board, along with head coach Gautam Gambhir, Centre of Excellence (CoE) chief VVS Laxman, ODI and Test captain Shubman Gill, and T20I skipper Shreyas Iyer, met in Mumbai on Thursday (Sep 3) to discuss the matter. The top-brass meeting with BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia came after recent T20I series losses against Ireland and England, as well as an ODI series loss against the latter. Many players, including Jasprit Bumrah, Washington Sundar, Harshit Rana, and Nitish Reddy, were either injured on the UK tour or in the lead-up to it, which eventually reflected in the results. How the BCCI plans to keep players injury-free The board secretary acknowledged, while talking after the Thursday meeting as reported by ESPNcricinfo, that "individual players are having injuries because they have to play a lot of matches." Also Read - Women's Asia Cup 2026: India's Smriti Mandhana is now best batter ever in women's cricket The players who were selected for the UK tour had played in the IPL for two months right before it, which "takes a toll on the health of the players as well. And to avoid those kinds of situations, what best we can do under the present windows and present FTPs, we are trying to find a way forward." "The only challenges which we are facing is that there are too many matches in the year and that is why in the next FTP, we will do certain things, we will take certain measures," he said. "We have instructed our FTP person, who will be meeting very soon in various international forums, that our FTP should be scheduled in such a way that there is proper rest for the players as well as some kind of acclimatisation or friendly matches before any major series in SENA countries." What is next for the Indian men's cricket team? The Indian men's team recently returned from Sri Lanka, where they won the two-Test series 1-0. The team next plays three T20Is against Afghanistan on Sep 13, 15, and 17 in New Delhi. After that, the Indian team will compete in the Asian Games 2026 in Japan, where the board has announced a full-strength squad.

Following player injury concerns, the BCCI met with leadership—including Gautam Gambhir, VVS Laxman, Shubman Gill, and Shreyas Iyer—to plan workload fixes and FTP scheduling changes for rest.

BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia shares how board is planning to keep players injury free

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) National Cricket Academy (NCA) director VVS Laxman is back as India men's head coach for the upcoming Asian Games 2026. The continental event will run from September 19 to October 4 in Japan's Aichi-Nagoya. Laxman will have a support staff of Sunil Joshi, Hrishikesh Kanitkar, and new fielding coach Subhadeep Ghosh. Laxman was also India's head coach for Asian Games 2023 where the team won the gold medal. The news was confirmed by a <a href="https://yas.gov.in/sites/default/files/Asian_Games_sanction_for_coaches_and_suppor_%20staff.pdf">circular issued by India's Ministry of Youth Affairs</a> and Sports on Wednesday (Sep 2). The Asian Games cricket event will take place from September 17 to October 3 (men's and women's).<h2>Why VVS Laxman and not Gambhir coaching India men's team at Asian Games 2026?</h2>This is not the first time VVS Laxman has been roped in to coach the Indian side. He was recently the head coach for India's tour of Zimbabwe and has handled the responsibilities multiple times since 2022. For the Asian Games 2026, he has been asked to handle the head coach position as the India men's team schedule at the continental games will overlap with a home ODI series against West Indies. India's regular head coach Gautam Gambhir will be with the ODI squad at home during the series.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-s-from-all-players-pakistan-skipper-babar-azam-exchange-with-uk-king-charles-goes-viral-1788425476025">'It's from all players': Babar's exchange with UK King Charles goes viral</a>The India men's team has received a bye in the first round of the Asian Games and will play in their first match, a quarter-final, on September 28. The home ODI series against West Indies runs from September 27 to October 3. India has announced a full-strength squad for the Asian Games 2026 led by Shreyas Iyer and featuring players like Tilak Varma, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, and Jasprit Bumrah.<h2>What about the India women's team?</h2>The India women's team, which is also the gold medal holder from the previous edition, will be coached by their regular staff of head coach Amol Muzumdar, bowling coach Aavishkar Salvi, and fielding coach Munish Bali. The team will be led by Harmanpreet Kaur with Smriti Mandhana, who recently became women's cricket's highest run-getter, as her deputy.

VVS Laxman will coach the Indian men's cricket team at the 2026 Asian Games as regular coach Gautam Gambhir leads the ODI squad vs West Indies. Amol Muzumdar remains women's head coach.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) National Cricket Academy (NCA) director VVS Laxman is back as India men's head coach for the upcoming Asian Games 2026. The continental event will run from September 19 to October 4 in Japan's Aichi-Nagoya. Laxman will have a support staff of Sunil Joshi, Hrishikesh Kanitkar, and new fielding coach Subhadeep Ghosh. Laxman was also India's head coach for Asian Games 2023 where the team won the gold medal. The news was confirmed by a circular issued by India's Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports on Wednesday (Sep 2). The Asian Games cricket event will take place from September 17 to October 3 (men's and women's). Why VVS Laxman and not Gambhir coaching India men's team at Asian Games 2026? This is not the first time VVS Laxman has been roped in to coach the Indian side. He was recently the head coach for India's tour of Zimbabwe and has handled the responsibilities multiple times since 2022. For the Asian Games 2026, he has been asked to handle the head coach position as the India men's team schedule at the continental games will overlap with a home ODI series against West Indies. India's regular head coach Gautam Gambhir will be with the ODI squad at home during the series. Also Read - 'It's from all players': Babar's exchange with UK King Charles goes viral The India men's team has received a bye in the first round of the Asian Games and will play in their first match, a quarter-final, on September 28. The home ODI series against West Indies runs from September 27 to October 3. India has announced a full-strength squad for the Asian Games 2026 led by Shreyas Iyer and featuring players like Tilak Varma, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, and Jasprit Bumrah. What about the India women's team? The India women's team, which is also the gold medal holder from the previous edition, will be coached by their regular staff of head coach Amol Muzumdar, bowling coach Aavishkar Salvi, and fielding coach Munish Bali. The team will be led by Harmanpreet Kaur with Smriti Mandhana, who recently became women's cricket's highest run-getter, as her deputy.

VVS Laxman will coach the Indian men's cricket team at the 2026 Asian Games as regular coach Gautam Gambhir leads the ODI squad vs West Indies. Amol Muzumdar remains women's head coach.

Asian Games 2026: VVS Laxman back as India men's head coach for Shreyas Iyer-led side

India remains Afghanistan cricket’s most important partner, Afghanistan Cricket Board chairman Mirwais Ashraf has said, praising New Delhi’s role in funding, venues, and bilateral cricket. In an exclusive interview with WION's Sidhant Sibal, Ashraf singled out the 2023 Asian Cricket Council meeting in Bahrain, held under Jay Shah’s presidency, when Afghanistan’s share of ACC distributions rose from about 6 percent to 15 percent, matching other Asian Full Members. “This was an important development… and provided additional financial support for the growth of the game,” he said.He also thanked the BCCI for giving Afghanistan access to three Indian grounds—Dehradun, Greater Noida, and Lucknow—to stage international fixtures when home options were limited. India, he noted, was the first country to host Afghanistan’s maiden Test after it achieved Full Member status. Infrastructure is the unfinished chapter. India began four projects in Afghanistan: grounds in Paktika, Logar, and Balkh, and a guest house at Kandahar. “The ACB hopes that India will resume its support for the remaining projects,” Ashraf said, adding that the board would raise the issue with Indian officials.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-womens-champions-trophy-2027-india-host-venues-sri-lanka-1788374552917">India to host inaugural 2027 Women's Champions Trophy across Mumbai and Vadodara</a>He pointed out that Afghanistan's cricket rise is no longer a surprise but the product of talent, planning, and a widening domestic pathway. “Natural talent, unity, and hard work” sit alongside board strategy, he said. Full interview:Sidhant Sibal: How do you see the standing of Afghan cricket currently in the global cricketing world?Mirwais Ashraf: Afghanistan cricket has achieved several major milestones across ICC, ACC, and bilateral competitions in recent years. At the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, Afghanistan produced their best-ever ODI World Cup campaign, defeating England, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and the Netherlands and finishing sixth overall in the tournament. Afghanistan then reached the semi-finals of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 for the first time in their history. During that remarkable campaign, they recorded memorable victories over teams including New Zealand, Australia, Bangladesh, and Uganda. Their strong performance at the 2023 ODI World Cup also earned them qualification for their maiden ICC Champions Trophy in 2025. Afghanistan continued to make history at that tournament by defeating England, registering their first-ever Champions Trophy victory.Success has not been limited to the senior national team. Afghan Abdalyan (Afghanistan A) won the ACC Men’s T20 Emerging Teams Asia Cup 2024, defeating Sri Lanka A in the final to claim their first title in the competition. At the youth level, the Afghanistan U19 national team reached the semi-finals of the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026, further demonstrating the strength and depth of Afghanistan’s developing cricket structure. These outstanding performances across the senior, A-team, and U19 levels reflect Afghanistan’s continued rise and growing presence in international cricket.Afghanistan’s progress has also been evident outside ICC and ACC tournaments. In bilateral cricket, the national team has produced impressive performances and recorded significant series and match victories against established international sides such as Bangladesh, Pakistan, and South Africa. Together, these achievements demonstrate Afghanistan cricket’s growing competitiveness, depth, and ability to perform consistently against leading teams on the international stage.Sidhant Sibal: Afghanistan cricket has achieved notable successes in recent ICC events, including strong showings in the 2024 T20 World Cup. What do you see as the key factors behind this progress, and how is the Board sustaining that momentum?Mirwais Ashraf: Several key factors have contributed to Afghanistan’s major achievements at the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, and ICC Champions Trophy 2025. One of the most important factors behind Afghanistan’s remarkable progress in international cricket is the country’s natural cricketing talent, combined with the dedication, unity, discipline, and hard work of the players.At the same time, the Afghanistan Cricket Board’s (ACB) strategic planning and preparation played a significant role in the national team’s outstanding performances at the 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. As part of its preparations, the ACB organized the Shpageeza Cricket League ahead of the World Cup, providing national team players with valuable competitive match exposure before the tournament. In addition, the team traveled to the West Indies well in advance of the competition to participate in conditioning and preparation camps. This early arrival helped the players adapt to the local weather, pitches, and playing conditions, which proved highly beneficial during the tournament.The appointment of former West Indies star Dwayne “DJ” Bravo as the team’s mentor was another important step. His extensive international experience, particularly in T20 cricket and Caribbean conditions, provided additional technical and strategic support to the players and coaching staff. Together, these measures formed part of a well-planned preparation strategy that contributed significantly to Afghanistan’s impressive World Cup campaign.More broadly, the combination of natural talent, a stronger domestic cricket structure, regular competitive exposure, improved player welfare, greater international experience, the participation of national team players in domestic competitions, specialized high-performance programs, and continued investment in qualified technical and coaching staff has helped create a stronger and more sustainable cricketing system in Afghanistan.Sidhant Sibal: Infrastructure and grassroots development remain critical for a cricket-playing nation like Afghanistan. What are the Board’s current priorities for expanding facilities, academies, and pathways across the provinces?Mirwais Ashraf: The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has continued to make significant investments in cricket infrastructure across the country. At present, the ACB has around 15 cricket grounds and approximately 20 cricket academies nationwide. Eight of these grounds have already been equipped with facilities approaching international standards, including academies, pavilions, grandstands, and other essential infrastructure. The ACB is also working to further upgrade these venues to meet higher international standards. Planned and ongoing improvements include the construction of additional grandstands, installation of spectator seating, floodlights for day-night matches, guest houses, gyms, and other facilities required for high-level domestic and international cricket.One of the ACB’s most ambitious infrastructure projects is the recently launched Kabul International Cricket Complex, which is being developed on approximately 86 Jerib (172,000 square meters) of land. The complex is planned to include a main international cricket ground, two additional ovals, indoor and outdoor academies featuring different types of wickets, spectator stands with a capacity of around 50,000, dedicated media and broadcast production facilities, a guest house, fitness gym, game zone, swimming pool, rehabilitation center, parking areas, and several other facilities required for a modern international cricket venue.With an estimated investment of approximately USD 45 million, the Kabul International Cricket Complex represents a major long-term project for Afghanistan cricket. The ACB is contributing its own resources to the development while also seeking support from donors and development partners to help complete the project and establish a world-class cricket facility. We have already shared our proposals with a number of countries and donor organizations, and we remain hopeful that they will contribute to these initiatives in support of cricket development in Afghanistan. Their support would play an important role in creating more opportunities for young players, nurturing the country’s natural cricketing talent, and strengthening the long-term development of the game.Infrastructure development has also expanded significantly at the provincial level. In 2025 alone, the ACB constructed four new cricket grounds in Logar, Laghman, Baghlan, and Balkh provinces, in addition to establishing 11 cricket academies across different parts of the country. We have paid particular attention to regions where cricket opportunities and facilities have traditionally been limited, especially in the northern parts of the country.We are confident that our academy project in Badakhshan that was completed in 2024—one of Afghanistan’s remote provinces—together with the development of cricket grounds in Balkh and Baghlan, recently completed, will play a significant role in expanding access to professional cricket opportunities for young people in these regions. These projects are expected to help identify and nurture local talent, improve access to proper training facilities, and create a stronger pathway for young cricketers to develop their skills and pursue opportunities within Afghanistan’s cricketing system.Alongside infrastructure development, the ACB has also expanded its high-performance structure. In addition to the main High-Performance Center (HPC) at the Afghanistan Cricket Board, the ACB has recently established Regional High-Performance Centers (RHPCs). These regional centers are designed to provide structured training, coaching, talent identification, and player development opportunities closer to where players live. The establishment of RHPCs is expected to significantly strengthen Afghanistan’s talent pathway by allowing promising players from different regions to receive high-quality coaching and performance support without relying solely on the central HPC in Kabul. This will help broaden the national talent pool, improve the transition from grassroots and domestic cricket to higher levels, and ensure that talented players from across the country have a clearer pathway toward professional and international cricket.Sidhant Sibal: Domestic competitions and the Afghanistan Premier League (or similar structures) are vital for talent identification. What is the vision for strengthening the domestic calendar and professional opportunities for Afghan cricketers?Mirwais Ashraf: Afghanistan’s domestic cricket structure has played a central role in identifying, developing, and preparing players who now represent the country at the international level. One of the major competitions is the Afghanistan Premier League (APL), preparations for the second edition of which are currently underway. As part of this process, three teams were sold during a special ceremony held in Dubai on August 25. The event also featured the unveiling of the APL’s striking new trophy, which received widespread praise for its distinctive design and visual appeal. The player registration process has also commenced, while the players’ draft ceremony is expected to be held in the near future.Another major competition is the Shpageeza Cricket League, one of Afghanistan’s leading domestic tournaments. Its most recent, 11th edition was held in Khost province and featured high-standard production and broadcast coverage. The competition brings together many of Afghanistan’s most prominent national team players and popular cricket stars, while also providing an important platform for emerging players to showcase their abilities, gain valuable competitive exposure, and progress toward professional and international cricket. It is also noteworthy that Afghan Abdalyan was largely formed from the standout performers of the 2024 Shpageeza Cricket League. The team went on to compete in the Emerging Asia Cup that same year and achieved historic success by winning the championship title.This achievement demonstrated the important role of domestic competitions in identifying talented players and preparing them for higher levels of international cricket. Age-group cricket has been equally important in developing the next generation of Afghan cricketers. Many players who currently represent the Afghanistan National Team and Afghan Abdalyan have progressed through these domestic, age-group, and high-performance pathways. Together, these competitions form an important part of the ACB’s player-development system and help ensure a continuous supply of talent for Afghanistan cricket.The Afghanistan Cricket Board has developed a clear domestic cricket pathway that starts with around 500 registered clubs and 8,000 players nationwide. Top performers progress through Grade Two and Grade One provincial competitions, then move into regional and major domestic tournaments such as three-day cricket, First-Class cricket, List A, the National T20 Cup, and the Shpageeza Cricket League.This step-by-step structure creates a direct pathway from grassroots cricket to Afghan Abdalyan and ultimately the senior national team. Another important element of Afghanistan’s domestic cricket development has been the live broadcast of major competitions. Leading events, including First-Class, List A, the National T20 Cup, and the Shpageeza Cricket League, are broadcast live, giving young and emerging cricketers valuable exposure on a professional platform. The combination of a structured pathway from club cricket to provincial, regional, A-team, and national-team levels, together with high-quality competitions and live broadcasting, has created a strong platform for talent development. It has enabled Afghanistan to continuously identify promising players, provide them with meaningful competitive experience, and prepare them for the demands of international cricket.Sidhant Sibal: How has the Afghanistan Cricket Board benefited from India's support in developing cricket infrastructure and training facilities over the years?Mirwais Ashraf: India has extended valuable support to the Afghanistan Cricket Board on a number of occasions, and we remain appreciative of that cooperation. One significant example came during the Asian Cricket Council meeting held in Bahrain in 2023, when the ACB raised the issue of Afghanistan’s share of the ACC’s financial distribution. At the time, Afghanistan was receiving approximately 6 percent, despite being a Full Member. Following discussions at the meeting, under the presidency of Mr. Jay Shah, Afghanistan’s share was increased to 15 percent, bringing it in line with the other Full Member cricket boards in Asia. This was an important development for Afghanistan cricket and provided additional financial support for the growth of the game.We are sincerely grateful to India and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for their valuable support in providing Afghanistan with access to three cricket venues in India—Dehradun, Greater Noida, and Lucknow—where we host our international events. These venues played an important role in ensuring the continuity of our cricketing programs.India had also initiated four cricket infrastructure projects in four provinces of Afghanistan, including cricket grounds in Paktika, Logar, and Balkh, as well as a guest house at the Kandahar Cricket Ground. Following the change of government in Afghanistan, three of these projects remained incomplete, while the guest house project at the Kandahar venue was completed. The Afghanistan Cricket Board hopes that India will resume its support for the remaining projects and facilitate their completion. The ACB intends to raise this matter during its upcoming meeting with Indian officials and discuss possible ways forward for completing these important infrastructure projects.Sidhant Sibal: Are there plans for more bilateral series between India and Afghanistan beyond multilateral tournaments?Mirwais Ashraf: In bilateral cricket, we remain deeply appreciative of the support and cooperation of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). After Afghanistan gained Full Member status, India became the first country to host Afghanistan in its historic maiden Test match, marking an important milestone in the development of Afghan cricket.In recent years, Afghanistan and India have increasingly engaged in bilateral cricket. India hosted Afghanistan for a highly competitive and entertaining T20I series that produced quality cricket, close contests, and memorable moments for fans of both nations. This year, the two sides have been involved across all three formats. India hosted Afghanistan for a Test and ODI series, and Afghanistan is now set to host India for a T20I series. This growing bilateral engagement reflects the strength of the cricketing relationship between the two countries.Bilateral cricket, particularly in the shorter formats, not only provides exciting contests for cricket fans around the world but also creates valuable opportunities for Afghan players to compete against top-quality opposition, gain experience in high-pressure situations, and further develop their skills in modern international cricket. We hope this cooperation will continue and expand in the years ahead. We also encourage all Full Member cricket boards to strengthen bilateral engagement with Afghanistan, with the focus remaining on cricket and sporting cooperation. Regular bilateral cricket can contribute significantly to player development, competitive growth, and stronger friendly relations between cricketing nations.Sidhant Sibal: What steps is the ACB taking to strengthen long-term cricket ties with India amid regional geopolitical challenges? We saw how Pakistani strikes killed Afghan cricketers.Mirwais Ashraf: Cricket is a gentleman’s game and has always carried a message of friendship, peace, mutual respect, and entertainment across the world. Afghanistan strongly believes in building positive and healthy relationships with other countries, not only through sport but also in wider areas such as economic, social, and diplomatic cooperation.As part of this approach, Afghanistan recently invited and hosted the Uzbekistan national cricket team and played a T20 match against them. The Afghanistan Cricket Board has also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Uzbekistan to provide technical support, assist in the development of their coaching staff, and contribute to the training and development of their players.Our cooperation is not limited to Uzbekistan. The ACB has similar agreements and development partnerships with a number of emerging cricket nations. These initiatives reflect Afghanistan’s goodwill, its commitment to strengthening international cricket relationships, and its willingness to contribute to the development of the game beyond its own borders. We hope to see the same spirit of cooperation from other cricketing nations, particularly our neighboring countries. Strong sporting relationships can create mutual understanding, strengthen friendships between nations, and contribute to the continued growth and development of cricket across the region and beyond.

ACB Chairman Mirwais Ashraf praised India’s vital support in funding and venues while highlighting natural talent, structured domestic pathways, and board strategy behind Afghanistan's rise.

India remains Afghanistan cricket’s most important partner, Afghanistan Cricket Board chairman Mirwais Ashraf has said, praising New Delhi’s role in funding, venues, and bilateral cricket. In an exclusive interview with WION's Sidhant Sibal, Ashraf singled out the 2023 Asian Cricket Council meeting in Bahrain, held under Jay Shah’s presidency, when Afghanistan’s share of ACC distributions rose from about 6 percent to 15 percent, matching other Asian Full Members. “This was an important development… and provided additional financial support for the growth of the game,” he said. He also thanked the BCCI for giving Afghanistan access to three Indian grounds—Dehradun, Greater Noida, and Lucknow—to stage international fixtures when home options were limited. India, he noted, was the first country to host Afghanistan’s maiden Test after it achieved Full Member status. Infrastructure is the unfinished chapter. India began four projects in Afghanistan: grounds in Paktika, Logar, and Balkh, and a guest house at Kandahar. “The ACB hopes that India will resume its support for the remaining projects,” Ashraf said, adding that the board would raise the issue with Indian officials. Also Read - India to host inaugural 2027 Women's Champions Trophy across Mumbai and Vadodara He pointed out that Afghanistan's cricket rise is no longer a surprise but the product of talent, planning, and a widening domestic pathway. “Natural talent, unity, and hard work” sit alongside board strategy, he said. Full interview: Sidhant Sibal: How do you see the standing of Afghan cricket currently in the global cricketing world? Mirwais Ashraf: Afghanistan cricket has achieved several major milestones across ICC, ACC, and bilateral competitions in recent years. At the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, Afghanistan produced their best-ever ODI World Cup campaign, defeating England, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and the Netherlands and finishing sixth overall in the tournament. Afghanistan then reached the semi-finals of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 for the first time in their history. During that remarkable campaign, they recorded memorable victories over teams including New Zealand, Australia, Bangladesh, and Uganda. Their strong performance at the 2023 ODI World Cup also earned them qualification for their maiden ICC Champions Trophy in 2025. Afghanistan continued to make history at that tournament by defeating England, registering their first-ever Champions Trophy victory. Success has not been limited to the senior national team. Afghan Abdalyan (Afghanistan A) won the ACC Men’s T20 Emerging Teams Asia Cup 2024, defeating Sri Lanka A in the final to claim their first title in the competition. At the youth level, the Afghanistan U19 national team reached the semi-finals of the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026, further demonstrating the strength and depth of Afghanistan’s developing cricket structure. These outstanding performances across the senior, A-team, and U19 levels reflect Afghanistan’s continued rise and growing presence in international cricket. Afghanistan’s progress has also been evident outside ICC and ACC tournaments. In bilateral cricket, the national team has produced impressive performances and recorded significant series and match victories against established international sides such as Bangladesh, Pakistan, and South Africa. Together, these achievements demonstrate Afghanistan cricket’s growing competitiveness, depth, and ability to perform consistently against leading teams on the international stage. Sidhant Sibal: Afghanistan cricket has achieved notable successes in recent ICC events, including strong showings in the 2024 T20 World Cup. What do you see as the key factors behind this progress, and how is the Board sustaining that momentum? Mirwais Ashraf: Several key factors have contributed to Afghanistan’s major achievements at the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, and ICC Champions Trophy 2025. One of the most important factors behind Afghanistan’s remarkable progress in international cricket is the country’s natural cricketing talent, combined with the dedication, unity, discipline, and hard work of the players. At the same time, the Afghanistan Cricket Board’s (ACB) strategic planning and preparation played a significant role in the national team’s outstanding performances at the 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. As part of its preparations, the ACB organized the Shpageeza Cricket League ahead of the World Cup, providing national team players with valuable competitive match exposure before the tournament. In addition, the team traveled to the West Indies well in advance of the competition to participate in conditioning and preparation camps. This early arrival helped the players adapt to the local weather, pitches, and playing conditions, which proved highly beneficial during the tournament. The appointment of former West Indies star Dwayne “DJ” Bravo as the team’s mentor was another important step. His extensive international experience, particularly in T20 cricket and Caribbean conditions, provided additional technical and strategic support to the players and coaching staff. Together, these measures formed part of a well-planned preparation strategy that contributed significantly to Afghanistan’s impressive World Cup campaign. More broadly, the combination of natural talent, a stronger domestic cricket structure, regular competitive exposure, improved player welfare, greater international experience, the participation of national team players in domestic competitions, specialized high-performance programs, and continued investment in qualified technical and coaching staff has helped create a stronger and more sustainable cricketing system in Afghanistan. Sidhant Sibal: Infrastructure and grassroots development remain critical for a cricket-playing nation like Afghanistan. What are the Board’s current priorities for expanding facilities, academies, and pathways across the provinces? Mirwais Ashraf: The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has continued to make significant investments in cricket infrastructure across the country. At present, the ACB has around 15 cricket grounds and approximately 20 cricket academies nationwide. Eight of these grounds have already been equipped with facilities approaching international standards, including academies, pavilions, grandstands, and other essential infrastructure. The ACB is also working to further upgrade these venues to meet higher international standards. Planned and ongoing improvements include the construction of additional grandstands, installation of spectator seating, floodlights for day-night matches, guest houses, gyms, and other facilities required for high-level domestic and international cricket. One of the ACB’s most ambitious infrastructure projects is the recently launched Kabul International Cricket Complex, which is being developed on approximately 86 Jerib (172,000 square meters) of land. The complex is planned to include a main international cricket ground, two additional ovals, indoor and outdoor academies featuring different types of wickets, spectator stands with a capacity of around 50,000, dedicated media and broadcast production facilities, a guest house, fitness gym, game zone, swimming pool, rehabilitation center, parking areas, and several other facilities required for a modern international cricket venue. With an estimated investment of approximately USD 45 million, the Kabul International Cricket Complex represents a major long-term project for Afghanistan cricket. The ACB is contributing its own resources to the development while also seeking support from donors and development partners to help complete the project and establish a world-class cricket facility. We have already shared our proposals with a number of countries and donor organizations, and we remain hopeful that they will contribute to these initiatives in support of cricket development in Afghanistan. Their support would play an important role in creating more opportunities for young players, nurturing the country’s natural cricketing talent, and strengthening the long-term development of the game. Infrastructure development has also expanded significantly at the provincial level. In 2025 alone, the ACB constructed four new cricket grounds in Logar, Laghman, Baghlan, and Balkh provinces, in addition to establishing 11 cricket academies across different parts of the country. We have paid particular attention to regions where cricket opportunities and facilities have traditionally been limited, especially in the northern parts of the country. We are confident that our academy project in Badakhshan that was completed in 2024—one of Afghanistan’s remote provinces—together with the development of cricket grounds in Balkh and Baghlan, recently completed, will play a significant role in expanding access to professional cricket opportunities for young people in these regions. These projects are expected to help identify and nurture local talent, improve access to proper training facilities, and create a stronger pathway for young cricketers to develop their skills and pursue opportunities within Afghanistan’s cricketing system. Alongside infrastructure development, the ACB has also expanded its high-performance structure. In addition to the main High-Performance Center (HPC) at the Afghanistan Cricket Board, the ACB has recently established Regional High-Performance Centers (RHPCs). These regional centers are designed to provide structured training, coaching, talent identification, and player development opportunities closer to where players live. The establishment of RHPCs is expected to significantly strengthen Afghanistan’s talent pathway by allowing promising players from different regions to receive high-quality coaching and performance support without relying solely on the central HPC in Kabul. This will help broaden the national talent pool, improve the transition from grassroots and domestic cricket to higher levels, and ensure that talented players from across the country have a clearer pathway toward professional and international cricket. Sidhant Sibal: Domestic competitions and the Afghanistan Premier League (or similar structures) are vital for talent identification. What is the vision for strengthening the domestic calendar and professional opportunities for Afghan cricketers? Mirwais Ashraf: Afghanistan’s domestic cricket structure has played a central role in identifying, developing, and preparing players who now represent the country at the international level. One of the major competitions is the Afghanistan Premier League (APL), preparations for the second edition of which are currently underway. As part of this process, three teams were sold during a special ceremony held in Dubai on August 25. The event also featured the unveiling of the APL’s striking new trophy, which received widespread praise for its distinctive design and visual appeal. The player registration process has also commenced, while the players’ draft ceremony is expected to be held in the near future. Another major competition is the Shpageeza Cricket League, one of Afghanistan’s leading domestic tournaments. Its most recent, 11th edition was held in Khost province and featured high-standard production and broadcast coverage. The competition brings together many of Afghanistan’s most prominent national team players and popular cricket stars, while also providing an important platform for emerging players to showcase their abilities, gain valuable competitive exposure, and progress toward professional and international cricket. It is also noteworthy that Afghan Abdalyan was largely formed from the standout performers of the 2024 Shpageeza Cricket League. The team went on to compete in the Emerging Asia Cup that same year and achieved historic success by winning the championship title. This achievement demonstrated the important role of domestic competitions in identifying talented players and preparing them for higher levels of international cricket. Age-group cricket has been equally important in developing the next generation of Afghan cricketers. Many players who currently represent the Afghanistan National Team and Afghan Abdalyan have progressed through these domestic, age-group, and high-performance pathways. Together, these competitions form an important part of the ACB’s player-development system and help ensure a continuous supply of talent for Afghanistan cricket. The Afghanistan Cricket Board has developed a clear domestic cricket pathway that starts with around 500 registered clubs and 8,000 players nationwide. Top performers progress through Grade Two and Grade One provincial competitions, then move into regional and major domestic tournaments such as three-day cricket, First-Class cricket, List A, the National T20 Cup, and the Shpageeza Cricket League. This step-by-step structure creates a direct pathway from grassroots cricket to Afghan Abdalyan and ultimately the senior national team. Another important element of Afghanistan’s domestic cricket development has been the live broadcast of major competitions. Leading events, including First-Class, List A, the National T20 Cup, and the Shpageeza Cricket League, are broadcast live, giving young and emerging cricketers valuable exposure on a professional platform. The combination of a structured pathway from club cricket to provincial, regional, A-team, and national-team levels, together with high-quality competitions and live broadcasting, has created a strong platform for talent development. It has enabled Afghanistan to continuously identify promising players, provide them with meaningful competitive experience, and prepare them for the demands of international cricket. Sidhant Sibal: How has the Afghanistan Cricket Board benefited from India's support in developing cricket infrastructure and training facilities over the years? Mirwais Ashraf: India has extended valuable support to the Afghanistan Cricket Board on a number of occasions, and we remain appreciative of that cooperation. One significant example came during the Asian Cricket Council meeting held in Bahrain in 2023, when the ACB raised the issue of Afghanistan’s share of the ACC’s financial distribution. At the time, Afghanistan was receiving approximately 6 percent, despite being a Full Member. Following discussions at the meeting, under the presidency of Mr. Jay Shah, Afghanistan’s share was increased to 15 percent, bringing it in line with the other Full Member cricket boards in Asia. This was an important development for Afghanistan cricket and provided additional financial support for the growth of the game. We are sincerely grateful to India and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for their valuable support in providing Afghanistan with access to three cricket venues in India—Dehradun, Greater Noida, and Lucknow—where we host our international events. These venues played an important role in ensuring the continuity of our cricketing programs. India had also initiated four cricket infrastructure projects in four provinces of Afghanistan, including cricket grounds in Paktika, Logar, and Balkh, as well as a guest house at the Kandahar Cricket Ground. Following the change of government in Afghanistan, three of these projects remained incomplete, while the guest house project at the Kandahar venue was completed. The Afghanistan Cricket Board hopes that India will resume its support for the remaining projects and facilitate their completion. The ACB intends to raise this matter during its upcoming meeting with Indian officials and discuss possible ways forward for completing these important infrastructure projects. Sidhant Sibal: Are there plans for more bilateral series between India and Afghanistan beyond multilateral tournaments? Mirwais Ashraf: In bilateral cricket, we remain deeply appreciative of the support and cooperation of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). After Afghanistan gained Full Member status, India became the first country to host Afghanistan in its historic maiden Test match, marking an important milestone in the development of Afghan cricket. In recent years, Afghanistan and India have increasingly engaged in bilateral cricket. India hosted Afghanistan for a highly competitive and entertaining T20I series that produced quality cricket, close contests, and memorable moments for fans of both nations. This year, the two sides have been involved across all three formats. India hosted Afghanistan for a Test and ODI series, and Afghanistan is now set to host India for a T20I series. This growing bilateral engagement reflects the strength of the cricketing relationship between the two countries. Bilateral cricket, particularly in the shorter formats, not only provides exciting contests for cricket fans around the world but also creates valuable opportunities for Afghan players to compete against top-quality opposition, gain experience in high-pressure situations, and further develop their skills in modern international cricket. We hope this cooperation will continue and expand in the years ahead. We also encourage all Full Member cricket boards to strengthen bilateral engagement with Afghanistan, with the focus remaining on cricket and sporting cooperation. Regular bilateral cricket can contribute significantly to player development, competitive growth, and stronger friendly relations between cricketing nations. Sidhant Sibal: What steps is the ACB taking to strengthen long-term cricket ties with India amid regional geopolitical challenges? We saw how Pakistani strikes killed Afghan cricketers. Mirwais Ashraf: Cricket is a gentleman’s game and has always carried a message of friendship, peace, mutual respect, and entertainment across the world. Afghanistan strongly believes in building positive and healthy relationships with other countries, not only through sport but also in wider areas such as economic, social, and diplomatic cooperation. As part of this approach, Afghanistan recently invited and hosted the Uzbekistan national cricket team and played a T20 match against them. The Afghanistan Cricket Board has also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Uzbekistan to provide technical support, assist in the development of their coaching staff, and contribute to the training and development of their players. Our cooperation is not limited to Uzbekistan. The ACB has similar agreements and development partnerships with a number of emerging cricket nations. These initiatives reflect Afghanistan’s goodwill, its commitment to strengthening international cricket relationships, and its willingness to contribute to the development of the game beyond its own borders. We hope to see the same spirit of cooperation from other cricketing nations, particularly our neighboring countries. Strong sporting relationships can create mutual understanding, strengthen friendships between nations, and contribute to the continued growth and development of cricket across the region and beyond.

ACB Chairman Mirwais Ashraf praised India’s vital support in funding and venues while highlighting natural talent, structured domestic pathways, and board strategy behind Afghanistan's rise.

Afghanistan Cricket Board chairman Mirwais Ashraf credits players’ hard work &  partnership with India for rise of Afghan Cricket

The Asian Games cricket event landed in the soup when the participating <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asian-games-2026-cricket-facilities-japan-india-pakistan-acc-concerns-1787987697856">teams raised questions</a> over hotel facilities being provided at Aichi-Nagoya, the host venue of the games. With days to go for the event, Japan Cricket Association CEO Naoki Alex Miyaji has said that the teams can make their own arrangements for stays. AINAGOC [Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games Organising Committee] has been preparing to host players across a variety of stays, including a cruise liner. The teams, including India and Pakistan, however, were not satisfied with the quality of arrangements.<h2>Teams allowed to book own stays at Asian Games 2026</h2>Speaking to news agency PTI, Miyaji confirmed being in touch with the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) and reaching a mutual understanding of allowing the participating teams to book their own stays.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/meltdown-in-pakistan-cricket-pcb-director-of-high-performance-aaqib-javed-explains-reasoning-behind-dropping-7-players-sacking-coaches-1788320388158">Meltdown in Pakistan cricket: PCB director of high performance Aaqib Javed explains reasoning behind dropping 7 players, sacking coaches</a>"The participating teams in cricket are being offered hotel accommodation. Many other sports are being accommodated in much more limited facilities such as a cruise ship or container hotels. The teams are free to arrange their own accommodation if they choose to do so," he said."There are both temporary and permanent facilities at the venue. The facilities on the ground are temporary, but AINAGOC has worked very closely with the ACC for over a year now to ensure that the best facilities are provided within the limited timeline and facility restrictions."Despite being temporary, the facilities [make-shift dressing rooms] will provide as comfortable a space as possible for the players and officials. There are also permanent facilities around the ground which will be available to the players," he added.<h2>Cricket schedule in Asian Games 2026</h2>The men's event will feature a total of 10 teams, while the women's event will feature eight teams with games starting directly from the quarter-finals. India had won the gold medal in both the men's and women's events of the sport in the 2023 Asian Games.All the matches will be played at Korogi Sports Park in Nisshin from September 17 to 22 (women's event) and September 24 to October 3 (men's event).Apart from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, which have been given direct entry into the knockout round of the men's event, there are six more teams that will play in Round 1. Afghanistan, Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia, Nepal, and Oman have been divided into two groups of three teams each, with the top two teams advancing to join the remaining four teams in the knockouts.As for the women's event, eight teams start directly from the quarter-finals: India, China, Bangladesh, Japan, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Pakistan, and Thailand. The QF match line-ups are: India vs Japan, Bangladesh vs China, Sri Lanka vs Malaysia, and Pakistan vs Thailand.

Cricket teams at the 2026 Asian Games, including India and Pakistan, can book their own stays after expressing dissatisfaction with host facilities, confirmed Japan Cricket CEO Naoki Alex Miyaji.

The Asian Games cricket event landed in the soup when the participating teams raised questions over hotel facilities being provided at Aichi-Nagoya, the host venue of the games. With days to go for the event, Japan Cricket Association CEO Naoki Alex Miyaji has said that the teams can make their own arrangements for stays. AINAGOC [Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games Organising Committee] has been preparing to host players across a variety of stays, including a cruise liner. The teams, including India and Pakistan, however, were not satisfied with the quality of arrangements. Teams allowed to book own stays at Asian Games 2026 Speaking to news agency PTI, Miyaji confirmed being in touch with the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) and reaching a mutual understanding of allowing the participating teams to book their own stays. Also Read - Meltdown in Pakistan cricket: PCB director of high performance Aaqib Javed explains reasoning behind dropping 7 players, sacking coaches "The participating teams in cricket are being offered hotel accommodation. Many other sports are being accommodated in much more limited facilities such as a cruise ship or container hotels. The teams are free to arrange their own accommodation if they choose to do so," he said. "There are both temporary and permanent facilities at the venue. The facilities on the ground are temporary, but AINAGOC has worked very closely with the ACC for over a year now to ensure that the best facilities are provided within the limited timeline and facility restrictions. "Despite being temporary, the facilities [make-shift dressing rooms] will provide as comfortable a space as possible for the players and officials. There are also permanent facilities around the ground which will be available to the players," he added. Cricket schedule in Asian Games 2026 The men's event will feature a total of 10 teams, while the women's event will feature eight teams with games starting directly from the quarter-finals. India had won the gold medal in both the men's and women's events of the sport in the 2023 Asian Games. All the matches will be played at Korogi Sports Park in Nisshin from September 17 to 22 (women's event) and September 24 to October 3 (men's event). Apart from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, which have been given direct entry into the knockout round of the men's event, there are six more teams that will play in Round 1. Afghanistan, Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia, Nepal, and Oman have been divided into two groups of three teams each, with the top two teams advancing to join the remaining four teams in the knockouts. As for the women's event, eight teams start directly from the quarter-finals: India, China, Bangladesh, Japan, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Pakistan, and Thailand. The QF match line-ups are: India vs Japan, Bangladesh vs China, Sri Lanka vs Malaysia, and Pakistan vs Thailand.

Cricket teams at the 2026 Asian Games, including India and Pakistan, can book their own stays after expressing dissatisfaction with host facilities, confirmed Japan Cricket CEO Naoki Alex Miyaji.

Asian Games 2026: Cricket teams allowed to book own stays after complaints over hotel facilities

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced the <a href="https://www.bcci.tv/news/article/india-u19-squad-for-australia-u19-mens-tour-of-india-announced">India U-19 squad for the upcoming home tour against Australia U-19</a>, which will feature both 50-over and multi-day matches. Anvay Dravid and Aaryavir Sehwag, sons of former legendary Indian cricketers Rahul Dravid and Virender Sehwag, have been included in the one-day squad, marking the beginning of a new generation of former batters. Both Dravid and Sehwag were players of great stature in Indian cricket, playing more than 100 Tests each.<h2>Schedule of India U-19 home series against Australia U-19</h2>The tour starts with three one-day matches, scheduled for September 18, 21, and 23, before moving to the four-day matches, which will run from September 27 to 30 and October 5 to 8. All matches of the tour, barring the second four-day game, will be played in Rajkot. The second multi-day match will be played in Ahmedabad.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/derbyshire-police-investigate-alleged-assault-in-england-pacer-brydon-carse-s-arrest-case-1787805581778">Derbyshire police investigate alleged assault in ENG pacer Carse's arrest case</a><h2>What have Dravid Jr. and Sehwag Jr. done to earn a call-up to the India U-19 squad?</h2>Anvay Dravid was first selected for India B U-19 against Afghanistan in November last year but got out for a duck. He was recently included in the squad for the Sri Lanka U-19 tour in July, where he played two matches, scoring 14 and 87, respectively.Aaryavir Sehwag, meanwhile, has been effective in the ongoing Delhi Premier League (DPL) 2026 while playing for the West Delhi Lions.<h2>India U-19 squad for home series against Australia U-19</h2>One-Day Squad: Lakshya Raichandani (capt), Yashbardhan Chauhan (vice-capt), Rajat Baghel (wk), Aaryavir Sehwag, VK Vineet, Kushagra Ojha, Arjun Rajput, Manal Chauhan, Anvay Dravid (wk), V Yashveer, Rohit Yadav, Shavin Vinodh, Mohit Ulva, Chigurupati Venkata, Kavya Patel.Multi-Day Squad: Yashbardhan Chauhan (capt), Lakshya Raichandani (vice-capt), Sagar Virk, Kushagra Ojha, Manal Chauhan, Kush Patel, Manav Krishna (wk), Abhipray Biswas (wk), Rohit Yadav, Ishan Om, Ayaan Akram, Pranav Ragavendra, Priyanshu Singh, Mohit Ulva, Aryan Yadav.

Rahul Dravid’s son Anvay and Virender Sehwag’s son Aaryavir have been named in India U-19's One-Day squad to face Australia U-19 at home. The multi-format series begins Sept 18 in Rajkot.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced the India U-19 squad for the upcoming home tour against Australia U-19, which will feature both 50-over and multi-day matches. Anvay Dravid and Aaryavir Sehwag, sons of former legendary Indian cricketers Rahul Dravid and Virender Sehwag, have been included in the one-day squad, marking the beginning of a new generation of former batters. Both Dravid and Sehwag were players of great stature in Indian cricket, playing more than 100 Tests each. Schedule of India U-19 home series against Australia U-19 The tour starts with three one-day matches, scheduled for September 18, 21, and 23, before moving to the four-day matches, which will run from September 27 to 30 and October 5 to 8. All matches of the tour, barring the second four-day game, will be played in Rajkot. The second multi-day match will be played in Ahmedabad. Also Read - Derbyshire police investigate alleged assault in ENG pacer Carse's arrest case What have Dravid Jr. and Sehwag Jr. done to earn a call-up to the India U-19 squad? Anvay Dravid was first selected for India B U-19 against Afghanistan in November last year but got out for a duck. He was recently included in the squad for the Sri Lanka U-19 tour in July, where he played two matches, scoring 14 and 87, respectively. Aaryavir Sehwag, meanwhile, has been effective in the ongoing Delhi Premier League (DPL) 2026 while playing for the West Delhi Lions. India U-19 squad for home series against Australia U-19 One-Day Squad: Lakshya Raichandani (capt), Yashbardhan Chauhan (vice-capt), Rajat Baghel (wk), Aaryavir Sehwag, VK Vineet, Kushagra Ojha, Arjun Rajput, Manal Chauhan, Anvay Dravid (wk), V Yashveer, Rohit Yadav, Shavin Vinodh, Mohit Ulva, Chigurupati Venkata, Kavya Patel. Multi-Day Squad: Yashbardhan Chauhan (capt), Lakshya Raichandani (vice-capt), Sagar Virk, Kushagra Ojha, Manal Chauhan, Kush Patel, Manav Krishna (wk), Abhipray Biswas (wk), Rohit Yadav, Ishan Om, Ayaan Akram, Pranav Ragavendra, Priyanshu Singh, Mohit Ulva, Aryan Yadav.

Rahul Dravid’s son Anvay and Virender Sehwag’s son Aaryavir have been named in India U-19's One-Day squad to face Australia U-19 at home. The multi-format series begins Sept 18 in Rajkot.

BCCI includes Sehwag and Dravid in India U-19 one-day squad for home series against Australia U-19

India's teenage prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, known for his aggressive and scintillating batting style, showed off his bowling prowess in the Duleep Trophy match. Playing for East Zone, Sooryavanshi failed with the bat, scoring only eight runs off six balls in his team's only batting innings, but picked up two wickets in one over in the three overs he bowled in the match. Sooryavanshi's left-arm spin, coupled with his fearless batting at the top, could prove beneficial for him in the bright future ahead, where he is expected to shine for India at the international level.<h2>Sooryavanshi shows off bowling skills in Duleep Trophy</h2>The batter did not bowl in North East Zone's first innings, in which the team scored 111 in reply to East Zone's mammoth 467. During the follow-on, Sooryavanshi was given the ball, and he immediately returned the favor with two wickets. In the 28th over, with NE Zone already five wickets down, Vaibhav sent back Kishan Lyngdoh (25) and Imliwati Lemtur (4) in the space of four balls, effectively drawing curtains on the game.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Vaibhav Sooryavanshi provides Double Delight ✌️ Picks up 2⃣ wickets in the over. 2 excellent catches as well. 🙌 North East Zone are 79/7 in the 2nd innings after following on. Scorecard ▶️ <a href="https://t.co/XJFhfvvTIU">https://t.co/XJFhfvvTIU</a><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/DuleepTrophy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DuleepTrophy</a> <a href="https://t.co/NnYbBPnrja">pic.twitter.com/NnYbBPnrja</a>&mdash; BCCI Domestic (@BCCIdomestic) <a href="https://x.com/BCCIdomestic/status/2092132633442701365?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 25, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

NE Zone were eventually dismissed for 146 in their second innings, <a href="https://www.bcci.tv/matches/6dd4d51a-0601-4c35-8f46-6de345b31a01/east-zone-vs-north-east-zone/scorecard">losing the match</a> by an innings and 210 runs.<h2><a href="https://www.bcci.tv/matches/fa8391f5-4ab5-4da5-bfc0-362391baec31/north-zone-vs-west-zone">North Zone beat West Zone in other match</a></h2>In the other Duleep Trophy QF, North Zone beat West Zone by 52 runs to reach the semis. Batting first, North Zone scored 251 runs, thanks to pacer Anshul Kamboj (60) and Ayush Badoni (51) hitting fifties. In reply, West Zone could manage only 187 runs, with Shams Mulani scoring 52.In the second innings, North Zone scored 222 runs, with Ayush Badoni (50) scoring his second fifty of the match as they set a target of 287 for West Zone. Musheer Khan (96) and skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad (66) led the fight for West Zone, but they were eventually bowled out for 234, losing the match by 52 runs.

Teenage prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi took two wickets in an over to help East Zone beat North East Zone in the Duleep Trophy. North Zone also defeated West Zone by 52 runs to reach the semifinals.

India's teenage prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, known for his aggressive and scintillating batting style, showed off his bowling prowess in the Duleep Trophy match. Playing for East Zone, Sooryavanshi failed with the bat, scoring only eight runs off six balls in his team's only batting innings, but picked up two wickets in one over in the three overs he bowled in the match. Sooryavanshi's left-arm spin, coupled with his fearless batting at the top, could prove beneficial for him in the bright future ahead, where he is expected to shine for India at the international level. Sooryavanshi shows off bowling skills in Duleep Trophy The batter did not bowl in North East Zone's first innings, in which the team scored 111 in reply to East Zone's mammoth 467. During the follow-on, Sooryavanshi was given the ball, and he immediately returned the favor with two wickets. In the 28th over, with NE Zone already five wickets down, Vaibhav sent back Kishan Lyngdoh (25) and Imliwati Lemtur (4) in the space of four balls, effectively drawing curtains on the game.

Teenage prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi took two wickets in an over to help East Zone beat North East Zone in the Duleep Trophy. North Zone also defeated West Zone by 52 runs to reach the semifinals.

Duleep Trophy: Sooryavanshi shows off bowling skills with double-wicket over in East Zone win

Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Chennai Super Kings (CSK) is sans coach as of now after Stephan Fleming stood down recently post a successful 18-year-long stint. The five-time champions have not announced a new coach as of now but retired Indian off-spinner Ravi Ashwin thinks a former England player could land the job. The absence of coach, according to Ashwin, hampers CSK's trade window deals as well with the franchise being linked to Hardik Pandya trade from Mumbai Indians.<h2>Who will become next CSK coach?</h2>"Names like Andrew Flintoff and Brendon McCullum have been doing the rounds. That’ll be a good swap to send Stephen Fleming to England and get McCullum here. Now, the ECB are fine with sharing jobs so McCullum can be England’s white-ball coach and do the same with CSK. But I have a feeling that Eoin Morgan could be that Englishman who becomes CSK’s head coach,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel. Notably, both Flintoff and McCullum have played for CSK in the past.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shoaib-akhtar-says-seam-friendly-england-pitches-will-be-very-difficult-for-pakistan-in-upcoming-test-series-1786597072547">Shoaib Akhtar says seam-friendly England pitches 'will be very difficult' for Pakistan in upcoming Test series</a>Ashwin also pointed out how lack of a coach affects the trade window opportunity for the CSK and said: "It must be remembered that the trade window is ongoing. And CSK are still without a coach. This makes discussing trade deals very hard. While there are rumors about a Hardik Pandya trade for Khaleel Ahmed and Shivam Dube, the incoming coach might feel he could extract the best out of Khaleel or Dube. Let’s not forget that Dube has played in beast mode for CSK themselves two to three years back."<h2>What next for CSK?</h2>Since winning their last title in 2023, CSK have failed to make it the playoffs in the last three seasons from IPL 2024 to 2026. CSK finished on 8th in last season out of 10 teams, which is slightly better than last place finish in the 2025, and three spots lower than fifth place finish in IPL 2024.

Following Stephen Fleming's departure after 18 years, Ashwin predicts Eoin Morgan could be CSK's next head coach, noting the vacancy complicates active IPL trade window negotiations.

Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Chennai Super Kings (CSK) is sans coach as of now after Stephan Fleming stood down recently post a successful 18-year-long stint. The five-time champions have not announced a new coach as of now but retired Indian off-spinner Ravi Ashwin thinks a former England player could land the job. The absence of coach, according to Ashwin, hampers CSK's trade window deals as well with the franchise being linked to Hardik Pandya trade from Mumbai Indians. Who will become next CSK coach? "Names like Andrew Flintoff and Brendon McCullum have been doing the rounds. That’ll be a good swap to send Stephen Fleming to England and get McCullum here. Now, the ECB are fine with sharing jobs so McCullum can be England’s white-ball coach and do the same with CSK. But I have a feeling that Eoin Morgan could be that Englishman who becomes CSK’s head coach,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel. Notably, both Flintoff and McCullum have played for CSK in the past. Also Read - Shoaib Akhtar says seam-friendly England pitches 'will be very difficult' for Pakistan in upcoming Test series Ashwin also pointed out how lack of a coach affects the trade window opportunity for the CSK and said: "It must be remembered that the trade window is ongoing. And CSK are still without a coach. This makes discussing trade deals very hard. While there are rumors about a Hardik Pandya trade for Khaleel Ahmed and Shivam Dube, the incoming coach might feel he could extract the best out of Khaleel or Dube. Let’s not forget that Dube has played in beast mode for CSK themselves two to three years back." What next for CSK? Since winning their last title in 2023, CSK have failed to make it the playoffs in the last three seasons from IPL 2024 to 2026. CSK finished on 8th in last season out of 10 teams, which is slightly better than last place finish in the 2025, and three spots lower than fifth place finish in IPL 2024.

Following Stephen Fleming's departure after 18 years, Ashwin predicts Eoin Morgan could be CSK's next head coach, noting the vacancy complicates active IPL trade window negotiations.

England's 2019 ODI WC winning captain Eoin Morgan to be next CSK coach? Ravi Ashwin has a 'feeling'

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Centre of Excellence (CoE) head VVS Laxman said the facility has a much wider role than simply helping injured players recover, while highlighting the importance of monitoring systems in preventing and managing injuries.&nbsp;Speaking at a press conference in Bengaluru, Laxman said injuries are a normal part of every sportsperson’s career and stressed that no one should be blamed when a player suffers an injury.&nbsp;“CoE is not a rehab centre. There’s a bigger responsibility and mandate given by the BCCI,” Laxman said.&nbsp;“Injuries are part and parcel of any player’s career. That’s why the monitoring system is very critical. And we don’t use the term blame; then we will be trying to find scapegoats,” he added.&nbsp;Laxman’s comments came at a time when concerns have increased over the number of injuries affecting Indian players. BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia met Laxman on Sunday to review the injury management and rehabilitation programme at the CoE.&nbsp;&nbsp;BCCI president Mithun Manhas and other senior officials also attended the press conference.&nbsp;Laxman also addressed the vacant position of Head of Sports Science and Medicine (SSM) at the CoE and said that the BCCI has found it difficult to appoint the right person for the important role.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sourav-ganguly-yuvraj-singh-at-dc-trials-spark-ipl-2027-coaching-rumours-1786271352701">Sourav Ganguly, Yuvraj Singh at DC trials spark IPL 2027 coaching rumours</a>&nbsp;According to Laxman, the position requires more than just experience and reputation. The person must also understand the specific needs of Indian cricketers.&nbsp;“After Nitin (Patel) left, we couldn’t fill his shoes. Everything was agreed upon; Andrew (Leipus) backed off citing family reasons,” Laxman said.&nbsp;He revealed that the BCCI had shortlisted five candidates for the position, however, the top candidate, an Australian whose name was not revealed, later pulled out after deciding that he could not move to Bengaluru.&nbsp;“We shortlisted five candidates; No. 1 was Australian, can’t name him. He suddenly backed out, saying he can’t move to Bengaluru. It’s not a consultant role. You want the person to be there. It’s day-to-day monitoring,” Laxman said.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashmita-chaliha-clinches-maiden-bwf-world-tour-title-at-korea-masters-1786269514501">Ashmita Chaliha clinches maiden BWF World Tour title at Korea Masters</a>&nbsp;Laxman added that the vertical heads at the CoE have taken on additional responsibilities because the Head of SSM position remains vacant.&nbsp;“Another professional, head of All Blacks… he agreed and backed out. To fill in that position, not just stature and experience, but understanding of Indian cricketers is important. With the Head of SSM position not filling, the vertical heads have stepped up,” he said.&nbsp;His comments come amid increasing scrutiny of the CoE’s injury-management system, as Indian players Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana and Nitish Kumar Reddy are among those currently undergoing rehabilitation at the facility. All three have been ruled out of India’s upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka, which begins on Aug 15.&nbsp;The CoE is also overseeing the rehabilitation of several white-ball players, including Hardik Pandya, Varun Chakravarthy and Prince Yadav.&nbsp;With inputs from agencies

VVS Laxman defended the BCCI Centre of Excellence amid India’s injury concerns, stressing that its role extends beyond rehabilitation and that injuries are part of a cricketer’s career.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Centre of Excellence (CoE) head VVS Laxman said the facility has a much wider role than simply helping injured players recover, while highlighting the importance of monitoring systems in preventing and managing injuries. Speaking at a press conference in Bengaluru, Laxman said injuries are a normal part of every sportsperson’s career and stressed that no one should be blamed when a player suffers an injury. “CoE is not a rehab centre. There’s a bigger responsibility and mandate given by the BCCI,” Laxman said. “Injuries are part and parcel of any player’s career. That’s why the monitoring system is very critical. And we don’t use the term blame; then we will be trying to find scapegoats,” he added. Laxman’s comments came at a time when concerns have increased over the number of injuries affecting Indian players. BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia met Laxman on Sunday to review the injury management and rehabilitation programme at the CoE. BCCI president Mithun Manhas and other senior officials also attended the press conference. Laxman also addressed the vacant position of Head of Sports Science and Medicine (SSM) at the CoE and said that the BCCI has found it difficult to appoint the right person for the important role. Also Read - Sourav Ganguly, Yuvraj Singh at DC trials spark IPL 2027 coaching rumours According to Laxman, the position requires more than just experience and reputation. The person must also understand the specific needs of Indian cricketers. “After Nitin (Patel) left, we couldn’t fill his shoes. Everything was agreed upon; Andrew (Leipus) backed off citing family reasons,” Laxman said. He revealed that the BCCI had shortlisted five candidates for the position, however, the top candidate, an Australian whose name was not revealed, later pulled out after deciding that he could not move to Bengaluru. “We shortlisted five candidates; No. 1 was Australian, can’t name him. He suddenly backed out, saying he can’t move to Bengaluru. It’s not a consultant role. You want the person to be there. It’s day-to-day monitoring,” Laxman said. Also Read - Ashmita Chaliha clinches maiden BWF World Tour title at Korea Masters Laxman added that the vertical heads at the CoE have taken on additional responsibilities because the Head of SSM position remains vacant. “Another professional, head of All Blacks… he agreed and backed out. To fill in that position, not just stature and experience, but understanding of Indian cricketers is important. With the Head of SSM position not filling, the vertical heads have stepped up,” he said. His comments come amid increasing scrutiny of the CoE’s injury-management system, as Indian players Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana and Nitish Kumar Reddy are among those currently undergoing rehabilitation at the facility. All three have been ruled out of India’s upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka, which begins on Aug 15. The CoE is also overseeing the rehabilitation of several white-ball players, including Hardik Pandya, Varun Chakravarthy and Prince Yadav. With inputs from agencies

VVS Laxman defended the BCCI Centre of Excellence amid India’s injury concerns, stressing that its role extends beyond rehabilitation and that injuries are part of a cricketer’s career.

‘Not a rehab centre’: VVS Laxman defends BCCI CoE amid injury concerns

Indian cricket team is currently going through a spate of injuries with the latest one being Jasprit Bumrah, who recently withdrew from upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka. Before him, Washington Sundar and Nitish Kumar Reddy had suffered injuries with B Sai Sudharsan in the squad subject to fitness. In the recent times, it has been observed that players are suffering from injuries more often despite the fitness being focused upon more than ever. The BCCI is also planning to bring more fitness standards to ensure the players remain injury free but the question remains - what is causing the injuries?Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/women-s-asia-cup-2026-schedule-announced-india-vs-pakistan-on-sep-5-1786030626541">Women's Asia Cup 2026 schedule announced, India vs Pakistan on Sep 5</a>WION spoke to sports strength and conditioning coach Jivesh Bali, who also played cricket for Punjab, about the injuries plaguing the Indian cricket and he pointed out less recovery time as the main reason for the injuries. Jivesh has experience working with athletes in events like Nepal Premier League, World Legends Pro T20 League, and is a certified cricket strength and conditioning training specialist.“If we talk about the injuries, there's nothing to talk about the fitness levels rather than it's about the recovery management. In India, the athletes are suffering from this work overload. The athletes nowadays are being over-trained by the coaches you can say or by the management or by the federation so the recovery is one thing that is the main issue in re-occurring those injuries which athletes are going through.”Bali also spoke about Jasprit Bumrah's case in particular to explain the workload being experienced by the players and said: "Bumrah was continuously playing all three formats, i.e., Test match, ODIs, T20Is before his first injury happened. And because of his packed schedule, there is no time between all those high intensity cricket formats, leaving him no time for the recovery."A single player being pushed to all the three formats leaves little time for recovery and there is so much load on the muscles, joints, complete body that it needs time to recover. And, there is no time for that hence athletes are going through the injuries."There is not a question about their fitness levels or the sports science because India has the world's top notch sports science setups now. The question is the recovery management - 'Are you giving them the proper duration to recover themselves from the high intensity cricket?' Whether it is 5-day, red ball cricket or the white ball cricket."<h2>The BCCI is planning to include the 2K test and they already have the Bronco test. What is the difference if you could talk us about it?</h2>If we talk about Bronco test, there was a drill earlier athletes used to do that was the shuttle run in which there is the distance between 40 meters and 80 meters and then you have to basically run high intensity. The athletes then change direction and have to run back to the cones and then again to the another level so basically this mimics the movements in cricket, such as running between the wicket.The same is being mimicked in the Bronco test in which one has to run between the wickets to and fro. You have to be agile enough to quickly change the direction and then come forward, come back to that position. Basically Bronco test is targeting the high intensity aerobic thing. As for 2K, it is for enhancing cardiovascular conditioning. It helps to get a better resting heart rate, which helps during the match.Bronco test is always a little bit a step higher than the 2k test for pacers, batters, fielders and for the spinners. I'll say both the tests, Bronco and 2K, are more or less equal.<h2>You think that BCCI introducing these standardized Bronco test and 2K fitness test will help reduce the injuries?</h2>These tests are working on the certain physical parameter that is the aerobic endurance and the high intensity. So to work on the injuries, they need to work on many other things like - a specific reason of why the athletes are getting injuries much more often.I was doing that research and realized that athletes are not working on their biomechanics - Just giving you an example, in case of an injury, the athlete goes to the physiotherapist, or to the doctor to get the injury treated.The other perspective which the athletes should be working on is - the prehab part. You know the rehab part, once the injury is done, then there is a rehab. The second perspective which is now booming nowadays is the prehab part to avoid the further more injury happening.For prehab - first is the regular testing of the athletes which includes workload monitoring of the athletes so the management is aware of any potential injuries in future.As for poor biomechanics, if a bowler is getting a recurring knee injuries if could be because of the wrong way of landing the front leg, hip rotation timing, or front foot striking.These all issues need to be monitored on a regular basis to prevent, for example, the knee injury I've talked about. That's the one part you can prevent the knee injuries. Plus, the calendar, the schedule of the BCCI is very much hectic for the athletes.If a single player is playing all the three formats and you are presenting your country at an international level, so it's always high intensity cricket. Then there is domestic cricket as well, then there is IPL as well which leaves no time of recovering.They should be getting the pool of athletes, pool of players who are specialized in the different formats. Whether it is five-day cricket or white-ball, they should be have a different 15 altogether, different 15 for the test cricket, for T20 different 15 and for the ODI cricket different 15.And plus one more thing, the body is not adapting to the like weather changes. The Indian team travels a lot whether it is in India or outside India as well. The body is not acclimatizing to the weather or the nutrition outside. It has to be taken in care of like the nutrition, the recovery management, the neuromuscular fatigue as well - Athletes need to be focusing on that as well and the sports science professionals also.The BCCI has to think about this thing first that they need not to force any player or should not involve every player to play all the three formats. This is one thing which can solve the injury part to some extent.<h2>Also, you have worked with players across the globe of all age groups. How do foreign players or foreign cricket nations assess their players' fitness and what lessons do you think BCCI can take from them?</h2>The athletes in the foreign countries know what they are training for, the purpose for their training. In India, we can say the athletes are just in sport specific training, they are mimicking the movements, but the actual science says if you want to do the sport specific thing, you can only train the physical parameters. One has to work on the physical parameters.If you are doing drills like mimicking the movements of the sport then it is just a waste of time. Instead of that, you should be focusing on the force development, energy transfer from lower body to upper body, your rotational skills, and your anti-rotational stability.All these efforts need to be trained not just the movements. You have to train the physical parameters, agility, reflexes, force development, energy transfers, speed, and power. These are the physical parameters which I like feel like the players in the different countries are working on rather than focusing on any of the other fancy drills.Also, their (foreign countries) recovery prospect is top notch. The performance is basically hard work minus your fatigue. In India, the places I have worked, I have worked with seven different including wrestlers, boxers, cyclists, track and field athletes, the cricketers as well, most of the athletes are over-training at their age.And, the injuries are also reoccurring because the competition in India is that much high that a single player wants to play as soon as possible or as soon as he completes his fitness test. Once the fitness test is cleared, you have the green signal, but those tissues need proper recovery as well and joints, tissues need to be progressively overloaded.It's not that you have gone through the injury, you have done the rehab part, you are back to sport and you are ready to play high intensity cricket. It takes time for these things.

In the recent times, it has been observed that players are suffering from injuries more often despite the fitness being focused open more than ever. The BCCI is also planning to bring more fitness standards to ensure the players remain injury free but the question remains - what is causing the injuries?

Indian cricket team is currently going through a spate of injuries with the latest one being Jasprit Bumrah, who recently withdrew from upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka. Before him, Washington Sundar and Nitish Kumar Reddy had suffered injuries with B Sai Sudharsan in the squad subject to fitness. In the recent times, it has been observed that players are suffering from injuries more often despite the fitness being focused upon more than ever. The BCCI is also planning to bring more fitness standards to ensure the players remain injury free but the question remains - what is causing the injuries? Also Read - Women's Asia Cup 2026 schedule announced, India vs Pakistan on Sep 5 WION spoke to sports strength and conditioning coach Jivesh Bali, who also played cricket for Punjab, about the injuries plaguing the Indian cricket and he pointed out less recovery time as the main reason for the injuries. Jivesh has experience working with athletes in events like Nepal Premier League, World Legends Pro T20 League, and is a certified cricket strength and conditioning training specialist. “If we talk about the injuries, there's nothing to talk about the fitness levels rather than it's about the recovery management. In India, the athletes are suffering from this work overload. The athletes nowadays are being over-trained by the coaches you can say or by the management or by the federation so the recovery is one thing that is the main issue in re-occurring those injuries which athletes are going through.” Bali also spoke about Jasprit Bumrah's case in particular to explain the workload being experienced by the players and said: "Bumrah was continuously playing all three formats, i.e., Test match, ODIs, T20Is before his first injury happened. And because of his packed schedule, there is no time between all those high intensity cricket formats, leaving him no time for the recovery. "A single player being pushed to all the three formats leaves little time for recovery and there is so much load on the muscles, joints, complete body that it needs time to recover. And, there is no time for that hence athletes are going through the injuries. "There is not a question about their fitness levels or the sports science because India has the world's top notch sports science setups now. The question is the recovery management - 'Are you giving them the proper duration to recover themselves from the high intensity cricket?' Whether it is 5-day, red ball cricket or the white ball cricket." The BCCI is planning to include the 2K test and they already have the Bronco test. What is the difference if you could talk us about it? If we talk about Bronco test, there was a drill earlier athletes used to do that was the shuttle run in which there is the distance between 40 meters and 80 meters and then you have to basically run high intensity. The athletes then change direction and have to run back to the cones and then again to the another level so basically this mimics the movements in cricket, such as running between the wicket. The same is being mimicked in the Bronco test in which one has to run between the wickets to and fro. You have to be agile enough to quickly change the direction and then come forward, come back to that position. Basically Bronco test is targeting the high intensity aerobic thing. As for 2K, it is for enhancing cardiovascular conditioning. It helps to get a better resting heart rate, which helps during the match. Bronco test is always a little bit a step higher than the 2k test for pacers, batters, fielders and for the spinners. I'll say both the tests, Bronco and 2K, are more or less equal. You think that BCCI introducing these standardized Bronco test and 2K fitness test will help reduce the injuries? These tests are working on the certain physical parameter that is the aerobic endurance and the high intensity. So to work on the injuries, they need to work on many other things like - a specific reason of why the athletes are getting injuries much more often. I was doing that research and realized that athletes are not working on their biomechanics - Just giving you an example, in case of an injury, the athlete goes to the physiotherapist, or to the doctor to get the injury treated. The other perspective which the athletes should be working on is - the prehab part. You know the rehab part, once the injury is done, then there is a rehab. The second perspective which is now booming nowadays is the prehab part to avoid the further more injury happening. For prehab - first is the regular testing of the athletes which includes workload monitoring of the athletes so the management is aware of any potential injuries in future. As for poor biomechanics, if a bowler is getting a recurring knee injuries if could be because of the wrong way of landing the front leg, hip rotation timing, or front foot striking. These all issues need to be monitored on a regular basis to prevent, for example, the knee injury I've talked about. That's the one part you can prevent the knee injuries. Plus, the calendar, the schedule of the BCCI is very much hectic for the athletes. If a single player is playing all the three formats and you are presenting your country at an international level, so it's always high intensity cricket. Then there is domestic cricket as well, then there is IPL as well which leaves no time of recovering. They should be getting the pool of athletes, pool of players who are specialized in the different formats. Whether it is five-day cricket or white-ball, they should be have a different 15 altogether, different 15 for the test cricket, for T20 different 15 and for the ODI cricket different 15. And plus one more thing, the body is not adapting to the like weather changes. The Indian team travels a lot whether it is in India or outside India as well. The body is not acclimatizing to the weather or the nutrition outside. It has to be taken in care of like the nutrition, the recovery management, the neuromuscular fatigue as well - Athletes need to be focusing on that as well and the sports science professionals also. The BCCI has to think about this thing first that they need not to force any player or should not involve every player to play all the three formats. This is one thing which can solve the injury part to some extent. Also, you have worked with players across the globe of all age groups. How do foreign players or foreign cricket nations assess their players' fitness and what lessons do you think BCCI can take from them? The athletes in the foreign countries know what they are training for, the purpose for their training. In India, we can say the athletes are just in sport specific training, they are mimicking the movements, but the actual science says if you want to do the sport specific thing, you can only train the physical parameters. One has to work on the physical parameters. If you are doing drills like mimicking the movements of the sport then it is just a waste of time. Instead of that, you should be focusing on the force development, energy transfer from lower body to upper body, your rotational skills, and your anti-rotational stability. All these efforts need to be trained not just the movements. You have to train the physical parameters, agility, reflexes, force development, energy transfers, speed, and power. These are the physical parameters which I like feel like the players in the different countries are working on rather than focusing on any of the other fancy drills. Also, their (foreign countries) recovery prospect is top notch. The performance is basically hard work minus your fatigue. In India, the places I have worked, I have worked with seven different including wrestlers, boxers, cyclists, track and field athletes, the cricketers as well, most of the athletes are over-training at their age. And, the injuries are also reoccurring because the competition in India is that much high that a single player wants to play as soon as possible or as soon as he completes his fitness test. Once the fitness test is cleared, you have the green signal, but those tissues need proper recovery as well and joints, tissues need to be progressively overloaded. It's not that you have gone through the injury, you have done the rehab part, you are back to sport and you are ready to play high intensity cricket. It takes time for these things.

In the recent times, it has been observed that players are suffering from injuries more often despite the fitness being focused open more than ever. The BCCI is also planning to bring more fitness standards to ensure the players remain injury free but the question remains - what is causing the injuries?

'Recovery management and no prehab': Strength and conditioning expert shares reason behind injuries in Indian cricket

Ajinkya Rahane who recently announced his retirement from the international cricket, has credited former skipper Virat Kohli and coach Rai Shastri for changing the mindset inside the dressing room, especially overseas. With Shastri-Kohli at helm, India became the first team to win two consecutive Test series against Australia in Australia. Rahane took over captaincy in the second of those series as Kohli was on paternal leave after the first Test. Rahane led from the front with a sublime 112 at MCG in the second Test after the team was all out for 36 in the opening match, post which Kohli had gone home.<h2>Rahane credits Kohli-Shastri for toughening up India</h2>Speaking on Stick To Cricket Podcast after his retirement about who brought character to the dressing room, Rahane said: "When we started playing in our era, when MS (Dhoni) was going from Test cricket. He was still playing T20Is and ODIs as well but especially in Test cricket, I felt that Virat (Kohli) and Ravi (Shastri) were the guys who toughened up Indian cricket. Especially playing overseas cricket, going aggressive, going bold rather than being defensive and slightly reactive. I think we were always proactive.”<h2>Rahane's numbers for India</h2>Rahane bid adieu after playing 85 Tests, 90 ODIs, and 20 T20Is for India in which he scored 5,077 runs in red ball, 2,962 in 50-over, and 375 runs in the shortest format. His last series for India was and away Test tour of West Indies. Rahane, however, remains active in the domestic circuit in which he plays for Mumbai."Every single day, every innings, every opportunity I got to bat, the dream was always to wear the India cap. I lived by one simple rule – always put my country and my team ahead of myself. I played this game with complete honesty and I have always believed that if your intent is right, the game will always take care of you. Since the time I made my debut as a first-class cricketer, Indian cricket has grown tremendously and I feel so proud to have been a part of it over the last 20 years," he wrote in his retirement post.

With Shastri-Kohli at helm, India became the first team to win two consecutive Test series against Australia in Australia. Rahane took over captaincy in the second of those series as Kohli was on paternal leave after the first Test.

Ajinkya Rahane who recently announced his retirement from the international cricket, has credited former skipper Virat Kohli and coach Rai Shastri for changing the mindset inside the dressing room, especially overseas. With Shastri-Kohli at helm, India became the first team to win two consecutive Test series against Australia in Australia. Rahane took over captaincy in the second of those series as Kohli was on paternal leave after the first Test. Rahane led from the front with a sublime 112 at MCG in the second Test after the team was all out for 36 in the opening match, post which Kohli had gone home. Rahane credits Kohli-Shastri for toughening up India Speaking on Stick To Cricket Podcast after his retirement about who brought character to the dressing room, Rahane said: "When we started playing in our era, when MS (Dhoni) was going from Test cricket. He was still playing T20Is and ODIs as well but especially in Test cricket, I felt that Virat (Kohli) and Ravi (Shastri) were the guys who toughened up Indian cricket. Especially playing overseas cricket, going aggressive, going bold rather than being defensive and slightly reactive. I think we were always proactive.” Rahane's numbers for India Rahane bid adieu after playing 85 Tests, 90 ODIs, and 20 T20Is for India in which he scored 5,077 runs in red ball, 2,962 in 50-over, and 375 runs in the shortest format. His last series for India was and away Test tour of West Indies. Rahane, however, remains active in the domestic circuit in which he plays for Mumbai. "Every single day, every innings, every opportunity I got to bat, the dream was always to wear the India cap. I lived by one simple rule – always put my country and my team ahead of myself. I played this game with complete honesty and I have always believed that if your intent is right, the game will always take care of you. Since the time I made my debut as a first-class cricketer, Indian cricket has grown tremendously and I feel so proud to have been a part of it over the last 20 years," he wrote in his retirement post.

With Shastri-Kohli at helm, India became the first team to win two consecutive Test series against Australia in Australia. Rahane took over captaincy in the second of those series as Kohli was on paternal leave after the first Test.

Rahane says Kohli-Shastri 'toughened up' India cricket, especially overseas

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