India’s T20I captain, Suryakumar Yadav, completed five years in international cricket on Saturday (Mar 14) and celebrated the milestone with an emotional message on social media. The right-handed batter made his international debut at the age of 30 in a T20 match against England on 14 Mar, 2021. Since then, he has become one of India’s best batters in the format and has also won the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup twice.&nbsp;In his message, Suryakumar said that playing for India was a dream come true and a feeling he still finds hard to describe. He also expressed hope for creating many more memorable moments with the team in the future.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chinese-gp-kimi-antonelli-sets-new-record-as-youngest-pole-sitter-1773487273694">Chinese GP: Kimi Antonelli sets new record as youngest pole sitter</a>&nbsp;“5 years ago, a dream turned into reality. Wearing the India jersey is a feeling I can still never fully put into words… Here’s to many more memories that we’re going to create…” said Suryakumar in the post.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">5 years ago, a dream turned into reality. Wearing the India jersey is a feeling I can still never fully put into words 🇮🇳 Here’s to many more memories that we’re going to create, for team 🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/qhis2f44tQ">pic.twitter.com/qhis2f44tQ</a>&mdash; Surya Kumar Yadav (@surya_14kumar) <a href="https://twitter.com/surya_14kumar/status/2032658689975529571?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

So far, Suryakumar has played 113 T20 Internationals and scored 3,272 runs, at an average of 36.35 and an impressive strike rate of 162.94. During this time, he has hit four centuries and 25 half-centuries. He is currently India’s third-highest run-scorer in T20Is, behind Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. His four centuries are also the joint second-most in T20I cricket, along with Glenn Maxwell, while Rohit leads the list with five.&nbsp;Suryakumar played an important role in India’s victory at the 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup under Rohit Sharma’s captaincy. One of the most memorable moments of the final came when he took a brilliant catch near the boundary to dismiss David Miller.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/smackdown-results-march-13-randy-orton-turns-heel-on-cody-rhodes-drew-mcintyre-quits-wwe-wrestlemania-42-1773471377850">SmackDown Results: Randy Orton turns heel on Rhodes; Drew McIntyre quits WWE</a>&nbsp;After Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli retired from T20 internationals following that tournament, Suryakumar was appointed India’s T20I captain. Under his leadership, India has played 52 matches, winning 40 and losing only eight, giving him a win percentage of 76.94.&nbsp;He also holds a unique record in T20I cricket, as a &nbsp;first player to score centuries in four different countries, India, South Africa, England and New Zealand. In 2022, he had an outstanding year, scoring 1,164 runs in 31 matches at an average of 46.56 and a strike rate of 187.43. He also became the first Indian male cricketer to score over 1,000 runs in T20 internationals in a single calendar year.

Under Suryakumar Yadav’s leadership, India has played 52 matches, winning 40 and losing just eight, giving him a win percentage of 76.94%.

India’s T20I captain, Suryakumar Yadav, completed five years in international cricket on Saturday (Mar 14) and celebrated the milestone with an emotional message on social media. The right-handed batter made his international debut at the age of 30 in a T20 match against England on 14 Mar, 2021. Since then, he has become one of India’s best batters in the format and has also won the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup twice. In his message, Suryakumar said that playing for India was a dream come true and a feeling he still finds hard to describe. He also expressed hope for creating many more memorable moments with the team in the future. Also Read - Chinese GP: Kimi Antonelli sets new record as youngest pole sitter “5 years ago, a dream turned into reality. Wearing the India jersey is a feeling I can still never fully put into words… Here’s to many more memories that we’re going to create…” said Suryakumar in the post.

Under Suryakumar Yadav’s leadership, India has played 52 matches, winning 40 and losing just eight, giving him a win percentage of 76.94%.

‘A dream turned into reality’: Suryakumar Yadav reflects on completing five years in international cricket

India’s big victory in the 2026 T20 World Cup final led to strong reactions around the world, especially in Pakistan. Former fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar made a controversial comment, saying India’s dominance has “ruined cricket.” In the final, India comfortably defeated New Zealand by 96 runs at Narendra Modi Stadium and the win gave India their third T20 World Cup title. Many cricket experts praised India for their excellent performance, but Akhtar shared a different view during the Tapmad show Game On Hai.&nbsp;He compared India to a wealthy child controlling a neighborhood cricket match. According to him, it is like a rich kid inviting poorer children to play and deciding the rules. He suggested that India chooses a small group of teams, competes among them and then claims victory, which he believes has harmed the spirit of the game.&nbsp;&nbsp;'It’s like when there’s one rich kid in a neighbourhood who calls all the poor kids and says, ‘Come, let’s play cricket.’&nbsp;That’s exactly what India is doing with us. Out of eight teams, they keep four, and out of those four they call three again and move forward, and then they say, ‘See, I’ve won.’ They have ruined cricket entirely,” Akhtar said.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/was-samson-s-career-on-the-line-gambhir-praises-sanju-for-showing-character-courage-in-india-s-t20-triumph-1773061737299">Was Samson’s career on the line? Gambhir praises Sanju for showing character, courage in India’s T20 triumph</a>&nbsp;Interestingly, Akhtar had a different opinion before the final. He said India were the favourites to win but hoped New Zealand would take the title “for the sake of cricket.” He also mentioned that India might feel the pressure of expectations from their large population. Even so, he believed India still had the best chance to win.&nbsp;“I feel New Zealand might be bogged down in front of India, but India also have the pressure of 1.5 billion people. They have already lost a match in the World Cup final to Australia in Ahmedabad. I see India as the winner out of all this, but for cricket's sake, it's high time New Zealand won this World Cup,” he had said earlier.&nbsp;Despite his criticism, Akhtar acknowledged one key reason behind India’s success and praised head coach Gautam Gambhir for standing by his players during difficult times. Akhtar said that such trust and support from a coach can help a team perform better in big tournaments.&nbsp;By beating New Zealand in Ahmedabad, India’s victory created history, as they became the first team to successfully defend the Men’s T20 World Cup title, the first to win the tournament three times and the first to lift the trophy on home soil.

Despite his criticism, Akhtar acknowledged one key reason behind India’s success and praised head coach Gautam Gambhir for standing by his players during difficult times. 

India’s big victory in the 2026 T20 World Cup final led to strong reactions around the world, especially in Pakistan. Former fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar made a controversial comment, saying India’s dominance has “ruined cricket.” In the final, India comfortably defeated New Zealand by 96 runs at Narendra Modi Stadium and the win gave India their third T20 World Cup title. Many cricket experts praised India for their excellent performance, but Akhtar shared a different view during the Tapmad show Game On Hai. He compared India to a wealthy child controlling a neighborhood cricket match. According to him, it is like a rich kid inviting poorer children to play and deciding the rules. He suggested that India chooses a small group of teams, competes among them and then claims victory, which he believes has harmed the spirit of the game. 'It’s like when there’s one rich kid in a neighbourhood who calls all the poor kids and says, ‘Come, let’s play cricket.’ That’s exactly what India is doing with us. Out of eight teams, they keep four, and out of those four they call three again and move forward, and then they say, ‘See, I’ve won.’ They have ruined cricket entirely,” Akhtar said. Also Read - Was Samson’s career on the line? Gambhir praises Sanju for showing character, courage in India’s T20 triumph Interestingly, Akhtar had a different opinion before the final. He said India were the favourites to win but hoped New Zealand would take the title “for the sake of cricket.” He also mentioned that India might feel the pressure of expectations from their large population. Even so, he believed India still had the best chance to win. “I feel New Zealand might be bogged down in front of India, but India also have the pressure of 1.5 billion people. They have already lost a match in the World Cup final to Australia in Ahmedabad. I see India as the winner out of all this, but for cricket's sake, it's high time New Zealand won this World Cup,” he had said earlier. Despite his criticism, Akhtar acknowledged one key reason behind India’s success and praised head coach Gautam Gambhir for standing by his players during difficult times. Akhtar said that such trust and support from a coach can help a team perform better in big tournaments. By beating New Zealand in Ahmedabad, India’s victory created history, as they became the first team to successfully defend the Men’s T20 World Cup title, the first to win the tournament three times and the first to lift the trophy on home soil.

Despite his criticism, Akhtar acknowledged one key reason behind India’s success and praised head coach Gautam Gambhir for standing by his players during difficult times.&nbsp;

‘India have ruined cricket’: Shoaib Akhtar reacts to India’s historic T20 World Cup triumph

From India to Australia, here's a look at the top five cricket teams with most ICC titles. This list also includes Pakistan, West Indies and Sri Lanka.

From India to Australia, here's a look at the top five cricket teams with most ICC titles. This list also includes Pakistan, West Indies and Sri Lanka.

5 cricket teams with most ICC titles, check where India stands

A few weeks before the T20 World Cup 2026, Sanju Samson was dropped from India’s playing XI, as Ishan Kishan became the regular opening partner of Abhishek Sharma. However, things changed quickly for Samson in the last week, as he was brought back into the team for an important match against Zimbabwe and the 31-year-old made the most of his chances. He played a key role in the semi-final against England on Thursday and also in the crucial match against West Indies in Kolkata on Sunday.&nbsp;The Indian opener said that ignoring outside pressure and focusing on the basics of his game helped him overcome one of the toughest periods of his career and perform well on the T20 World Cup stage.&nbsp;He explained that during the difficult time, he relied on the support of his close family and friends. To stay focused, he avoided distractions by staying away from social media and limiting interactions with people.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lebron-james-sets-nba-record-for-most-field-goals-surpassing-kareem-abdul-jabbar-1772784218957">LeBron James sets NBA record for most field goals, surpassing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar</a>&nbsp;“I think when hard times were coming, my close people – the people whom I love and support – they were with me,” he said. “I closed all my windows, I shut down my phone, I was not on social media – I am still not on social media. So less noise, less people interacting with me really helped me focus in the right direction, and I am very happy with how things are going.”&nbsp;“I think that was very challenging for me. “I definitely wanted to come and do what I am trying to do now for the country – contribute and win games in the World Cup. But I think I was trying a bit too much in the New Zealand series. I wanted to make an impact and get into the XI for the World Cup here.&nbsp;“But you know this format – this cricket can get very funny. Even the best in the world actually struggle to score runs in this format. So I had to respect the game. I had to come back to my basics and work a bit more from my basics,” Samson said in the post-match press conference.&nbsp;Samson also spoke about the conditions at Wankhede Stadium during the semi-final. He said that he and Abhishek Sharma quickly realized that the pitch was very good for batting and that India needed a big score in the first innings.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-take-africa-back-7-time-f1-champ-lewis-hamilton-wants-to-race-in-africa-gp-before-retiring-1772783741096">7-time F1 champ Lewis Hamilton wants to race in Africa GP before retiring</a>&nbsp;“We were talking in the dressing room whether there will be dew in the second innings or not. But whether it came or not, the wicket was looking very good before the toss. Even the covering of grass, I think it was a very true wicket.”&nbsp;“After the first over, Abhishek and I were talking about how good the wicket was. Abhishek was saying after the powerplay that we should have at least put up 250. That was the wicket,” he said.&nbsp;While his innings gave India a strong start, Samson also highlighted the importance of the positive team environment in helping players handle pressure during the tournament.&nbsp;“We are taking care of all our players. We have a really great environment in the dressing room,” he said. “Both our leaders, GG and Surya, have a lot of faith and confidence in Abhishek. We try to help him in the way he actually requires. He has definitely gone through lots of ups and downs in his career. So he is also trying to find a way out, and we all are with him,” he added.

India will now face New Zealand in their second consecutive T20 World Cup final to be played at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday.

A few weeks before the T20 World Cup 2026, Sanju Samson was dropped from India’s playing XI, as Ishan Kishan became the regular opening partner of Abhishek Sharma. However, things changed quickly for Samson in the last week, as he was brought back into the team for an important match against Zimbabwe and the 31-year-old made the most of his chances. He played a key role in the semi-final against England on Thursday and also in the crucial match against West Indies in Kolkata on Sunday. The Indian opener said that ignoring outside pressure and focusing on the basics of his game helped him overcome one of the toughest periods of his career and perform well on the T20 World Cup stage. He explained that during the difficult time, he relied on the support of his close family and friends. To stay focused, he avoided distractions by staying away from social media and limiting interactions with people. Also Read - LeBron James sets NBA record for most field goals, surpassing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar “I think when hard times were coming, my close people – the people whom I love and support – they were with me,” he said. “I closed all my windows, I shut down my phone, I was not on social media – I am still not on social media. So less noise, less people interacting with me really helped me focus in the right direction, and I am very happy with how things are going.” “I think that was very challenging for me. “I definitely wanted to come and do what I am trying to do now for the country – contribute and win games in the World Cup. But I think I was trying a bit too much in the New Zealand series. I wanted to make an impact and get into the XI for the World Cup here. “But you know this format – this cricket can get very funny. Even the best in the world actually struggle to score runs in this format. So I had to respect the game. I had to come back to my basics and work a bit more from my basics,” Samson said in the post-match press conference. Samson also spoke about the conditions at Wankhede Stadium during the semi-final. He said that he and Abhishek Sharma quickly realized that the pitch was very good for batting and that India needed a big score in the first innings. Also Read - 7-time F1 champ Lewis Hamilton wants to race in Africa GP before retiring “We were talking in the dressing room whether there will be dew in the second innings or not. But whether it came or not, the wicket was looking very good before the toss. Even the covering of grass, I think it was a very true wicket.” “After the first over, Abhishek and I were talking about how good the wicket was. Abhishek was saying after the powerplay that we should have at least put up 250. That was the wicket,” he said. While his innings gave India a strong start, Samson also highlighted the importance of the positive team environment in helping players handle pressure during the tournament. “We are taking care of all our players. We have a really great environment in the dressing room,” he said. “Both our leaders, GG and Surya, have a lot of faith and confidence in Abhishek. We try to help him in the way he actually requires. He has definitely gone through lots of ups and downs in his career. So he is also trying to find a way out, and we all are with him,” he added.

India will now face New Zealand in their second consecutive T20 World Cup final to be played at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday.

'I shut down my phone': Sanju Samson opens up about struggles after match-winning 89 in T20 WC semi-final

The India team has rescheduled its practice session on Tuesday (Mar 3) due to a lunar eclipse. According to reports, the team usually trains at 6 PM two days before a match in the T20 World Cup 2026. The Board of Control for Cricket in India had earlier announced that the squad would practice from 6 PM to 9 PM at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai ahead of their semi-final against England.However, the team management later revised the timing after knowing that the lunar eclipse would begin at 3:20 PM and end at 6:47 PM. In line with certain Hindu beliefs, some members preferred to avoid training during the eclipse and since India is playing an important semi-final, they wanted to start on a positive note.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-back-at-chinnaswamy-bengaluru-set-to-host-five-matches-playoffs-and-final-1772542923724">IPL back at Chinnaswamy, Bengaluru set to host five matches, playoffs and final</a>&nbsp;The moon was expected to be visible in India from 6:26 PM, with the eclipse at its peak between 6:33 PM and 6:40 PM. Many in the team believed that no important activity should be done during this time. As a result, the management decided to delay practice by about an hour.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The team found out that since it is chandra grahan ‘lunar eclipse’ one should avoid doing anything good. As India is playing semi-finals against England the team wanted to start on a positive note. Many felt that we can push the practice time until 6:40 PM one should avoid doing any activity. The team management agreed to it and practice was postponed by an hour,” a source confirmed, according to the Indian Express.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/all-england-open-indian-players-in-action-on-mar-3-match-timings-and-where-to-watch-live-1772526525225">All England Open | Lakshya to Gayatri - Meet Indian players in action on March 3</a>&nbsp;During the tournament, the Indian team and its players have been regularly offering prayers and visiting temples before matches. They were seen going to temples in different cities, including Kolkata.&nbsp;After defeating the West Indies in their last Super 8 match, India secured a place in the semi-finals and will now face England on Thursday. India, the current T20 World Cup champions, hope to become the first team to successfully defend the title.

Defending champions India will take on England at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Thursday (Mar 5) in a repeat of the semifinals from the 2022 and 2024 editions.

The India team has rescheduled its practice session on Tuesday (Mar 3) due to a lunar eclipse. According to reports, the team usually trains at 6 PM two days before a match in the T20 World Cup 2026. The Board of Control for Cricket in India had earlier announced that the squad would practice from 6 PM to 9 PM at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai ahead of their semi-final against England. However, the team management later revised the timing after knowing that the lunar eclipse would begin at 3:20 PM and end at 6:47 PM. In line with certain Hindu beliefs, some members preferred to avoid training during the eclipse and since India is playing an important semi-final, they wanted to start on a positive note. Also Read - IPL back at Chinnaswamy, Bengaluru set to host five matches, playoffs and final The moon was expected to be visible in India from 6:26 PM, with the eclipse at its peak between 6:33 PM and 6:40 PM. Many in the team believed that no important activity should be done during this time. As a result, the management decided to delay practice by about an hour. “The team found out that since it is chandra grahan ‘lunar eclipse’ one should avoid doing anything good. As India is playing semi-finals against England the team wanted to start on a positive note. Many felt that we can push the practice time until 6:40 PM one should avoid doing any activity. The team management agreed to it and practice was postponed by an hour,” a source confirmed, according to the Indian Express. Also Read - All England Open | Lakshya to Gayatri - Meet Indian players in action on March 3 During the tournament, the Indian team and its players have been regularly offering prayers and visiting temples before matches. They were seen going to temples in different cities, including Kolkata. After defeating the West Indies in their last Super 8 match, India secured a place in the semi-finals and will now face England on Thursday. India, the current T20 World Cup champions, hope to become the first team to successfully defend the title.

Defending champions India will take on England at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Thursday (Mar 5) in a repeat of the semifinals from the 2022 and 2024 editions.

T20 World Cup 2026: India revises practice timing in Mumbai amid lunar eclipse

India middle-order batter Rinku Singh has left the team camp and returned home just two days before their T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 match against Zimbabwe in the T20 World Cup 2026. The match will be played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Thursday (Feb 26). It is a crucial match for India after their heavy 76-run defeat to South Africa at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday. Rinku travelled home due to a family emergency and also missed the team’s practice session. It is not yet clear whether he will rejoin the squad before Thursday’s match.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to an India Today report, Rinku Singh’s father has been admitted to a local hospital in Greater Noida and is currently on a ventilator. They also mentioned that the left-hander left Chennai early on Tuesday morning to attend to his father. Further details are awaited.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-hardik-dube-don-t-intimidate-a-batting-line-up-akhtar-tears-apart-india-attack-1771935994136">'Hardik, Dube don't intimidate a batting...': Akhtar tears apart India attack</a> &nbsp; It still remains unclear when Rinku would return back to the team, as it depends on the situation at home. If he is unable to come back, India may look at bringing in a replacement. There is also some doubt over his place in the playing XI because the left-hander was dismissed for a duck against South Africa at a time when India needed him to score some runs and reduce the margin of defeat.&nbsp;<h2>India vs Zimbabwe, T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8</h2>The Super Eight fixture against Zimbabwe in Chennai has become crucial for India, as if they lose to Zimbabwe, they will almost be out of the tournament. Even with a win, their qualification chances remain uncertain due to a poor net run rate (NRR). &nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-calmly-await-the-truth-psg-star-achraf-hakimi-to-face-trial-in-alleged-rape-1771939521056">‘I calmly await the truth’: PSG star Achraf Hakimi to face trial in alleged rape</a>&nbsp;India have struggled on slow and turning pitches in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026, however, conditions could be different at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, as traditionally the surface is known for being slow and assisting bowlers, but this time the pitch appears to be slightly different from its usual nature and is expected to favour batters.

Rinku Singh has been out of form in the ongoing 2026 T20 World Cup, scoring just 24 runs in five innings.

India middle-order batter Rinku Singh has left the team camp and returned home just two days before their T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 match against Zimbabwe in the T20 World Cup 2026. The match will be played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Thursday (Feb 26). It is a crucial match for India after their heavy 76-run defeat to South Africa at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday. Rinku travelled home due to a family emergency and also missed the team’s practice session. It is not yet clear whether he will rejoin the squad before Thursday’s match. According to an India Today report, Rinku Singh’s father has been admitted to a local hospital in Greater Noida and is currently on a ventilator. They also mentioned that the left-hander left Chennai early on Tuesday morning to attend to his father. Further details are awaited. Also Read - 'Hardik, Dube don't intimidate a batting...': Akhtar tears apart India attack It still remains unclear when Rinku would return back to the team, as it depends on the situation at home. If he is unable to come back, India may look at bringing in a replacement. There is also some doubt over his place in the playing XI because the left-hander was dismissed for a duck against South Africa at a time when India needed him to score some runs and reduce the margin of defeat. India vs Zimbabwe, T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 The Super Eight fixture against Zimbabwe in Chennai has become crucial for India, as if they lose to Zimbabwe, they will almost be out of the tournament. Even with a win, their qualification chances remain uncertain due to a poor net run rate (NRR). Also Read - ‘I calmly await the truth’: PSG star Achraf Hakimi to face trial in alleged rape India have struggled on slow and turning pitches in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026, however, conditions could be different at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, as traditionally the surface is known for being slow and assisting bowlers, but this time the pitch appears to be slightly different from its usual nature and is expected to favour batters.

Rinku Singh has been out of form in the ongoing 2026 T20 World Cup, scoring just 24 runs in five innings.

Rinku Singh leaves India squad before Zimbabwe clash in Chennai - Here's the reason

Team India opener Abhishek Sharma delivered a confident statement despite being out for three consecutive ducks in the T20 World Cup 2026. The left-hander said he will not change the way he thinks or plays, even after a disappointing start to the tournament. Featuring in his first T20 World Cup, Sharma is yet to open his account. In a video shared by Star Sports, Abhishek explained that he stopped putting pressure on himself two years ago and believes he can control only his practice and preparation. He said he is working hard in training and trusts that results will improve over time. Most importantly, he enjoys batting and does not want to feel stressed.&nbsp;&nbsp;He further said that every batter faces ups and downs. Some days bring runs and some days do not. He believes he must decide how he wants to play and stick to that plan. Even if he fails, he will not change his mindset or approach.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-inter-miami-loses-mls-opener-to-son-lafc-in-battle-of-global-stars-1771743855572">Lionel Messi’s Miami loses MLS opener to Son’s LAFC in battle of global stars</a>&nbsp;“I just enjoy my batting. I have left taking pressure two years ago because I feel that the process is in my hands. Practice and training are what I am doing, which I should always keep doing, and which will keep increasing gradually. I enjoy this thing, so there is no such pressure,” Abhishek Sharma said in a video.&nbsp;“Obviously, batters always face ups and downs. Sometimes there are runs in an innings, sometimes there are not, but I feel personally, I have to decide at a certain point in time that I have to play like this, have to play with such intent. I may or may not succeed in it, but I will not change my process and my mindset,” &nbsp;he added.<h2>Watch the video</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">“I won’t ever change my process and mindset.” 📈<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AbhishekSharma?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AbhishekSharma</a> ‘BELIEVES’ in himself as India march into the Super 8 vs <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SouthAfrica?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SouthAfrica</a>. 💪 Predict his score against South Africa in the comments.🧐 ICC Men’s <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a> SUPER 8 👉 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvSA</a> | SUN, 22 FEB, 6 PM <a href="https://t.co/kgNbhfsWC1">pic.twitter.com/kgNbhfsWC1</a>&mdash; Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/StarSportsIndia/status/2025128220086194336?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-announces-support-for-cricket-association-for-the-blind-in-india-includes-international-exposure-home-series-1771688634467">BCCI announces support for Cricket Association for the Blind in India</a>&nbsp;After the group stage, many fans and experts have talked about his poor performance. However, captain Suryakumar Yadav and the rest of the Indian team continue to support him and believe he will perform well in the next stage.&nbsp;Defending champions India will begin their Super 8 campaign against South Africa on Sunday (Feb 22) at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Defending champions India will begin their Super 8 campaign against South Africa on Sunday (Feb 22) at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Team India opener Abhishek Sharma delivered a confident statement despite being out for three consecutive ducks in the T20 World Cup 2026. The left-hander said he will not change the way he thinks or plays, even after a disappointing start to the tournament. Featuring in his first T20 World Cup, Sharma is yet to open his account. In a video shared by Star Sports, Abhishek explained that he stopped putting pressure on himself two years ago and believes he can control only his practice and preparation. He said he is working hard in training and trusts that results will improve over time. Most importantly, he enjoys batting and does not want to feel stressed. He further said that every batter faces ups and downs. Some days bring runs and some days do not. He believes he must decide how he wants to play and stick to that plan. Even if he fails, he will not change his mindset or approach. Also Read - Lionel Messi’s Miami loses MLS opener to Son’s LAFC in battle of global stars “I just enjoy my batting. I have left taking pressure two years ago because I feel that the process is in my hands. Practice and training are what I am doing, which I should always keep doing, and which will keep increasing gradually. I enjoy this thing, so there is no such pressure,” Abhishek Sharma said in a video. “Obviously, batters always face ups and downs. Sometimes there are runs in an innings, sometimes there are not, but I feel personally, I have to decide at a certain point in time that I have to play like this, have to play with such intent. I may or may not succeed in it, but I will not change my process and my mindset,” he added. Watch the video

Defending champions India will begin their Super 8 campaign against South Africa on Sunday (Feb 22) at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

'I will not change...': Abhishek Sharma on hat-trick of ducks in T20 World Cup 2026

India head coach Gautam Gambhir praised Suryakumar Yadav for the way he connects with his teammates, saying the captain has made things much easier for him in T20 cricket. Speaking during India’s T20 World Cup campaign, Gambhir spoke about the strong influence Suryakumar has had on the team through his leadership.&nbsp;&nbsp;"Surya has made my life a lot easier in this format," Gambhir, who has had the most success in T20I cricket as coach, told Star Sports. &nbsp;&nbsp;Gambhir further said that Suryakumar’s batting skills and wide range of shots are already well known, but what truly stands out is his calm nature and how he handles players. According to him, Suryakumar keeps the dressing room relaxed and communicates clearly with everyone. This allows the coach to focus on other aspects of the game, knowing the team environment is in safe hands.&nbsp;&nbsp;"I think he is a phenomenal leader of men – not by what he does on the field, not by the type of batter he is, not by the kind of shots that he plays. All that you can keep aside. But the way he relates to players, the way he talks to players, and how relaxed he is on the field," Gambhir said.&nbsp;"As a coach, you know you can think about other things because he is going to keep the atmosphere pretty calm. Surya the player, I can keep aside, but Surya the leader has ticked every box. It's a great thing when you have someone like him leading the country because his heart is in the right place, and he takes the right decisions for the team" he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-pakistan-at-t20-world-cup-icc-rejects-pcb-3-demands-what-were-those-mohsin-naqvi-icc-pcb-meeting-feb-15-colombo-1770628737051">India vs Pakistan at T20 World Cup: ICC rejects PCB’s ‘3 demands’; what were those?</a>&nbsp;These comments came a day after Suryakumar played a crucial innings against the USA in Mumbai. India were struggling at 77 for six after 13 overs, but Suryakumar held his nerve and scored 84 runs from 49 balls. His knock helped India reach a competitive total of 161 for nine.&nbsp;The pitch at Wankhede was difficult for batting, as the ball was not coming onto the bat easily. Despite this, Suryakumar adjusted well, using his full range of shots and hit 10 fours and four sixes during his innings.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/winter-olympics-trump-slams-skier-hunter-hess-1770631881313">Trump slams Olympic skier Hunter Hess for his 'representing US' stance: 'Just because I’m wearing the flag...'</a>&nbsp;Suryakumar also showed sharp thinking as captain during the match, as he trusted his main bowlers and avoided using part-time options. As a result, India managed to restrict the USA to 132 for eight and secured a win.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Suryakumar-led Indian team reached Delhi on Sunday ahead of their next Group A match against Namibia on Feb 12.

Since taking over the captaincy from Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav has led India in 44 matches, winning 35 of them.

India head coach Gautam Gambhir praised Suryakumar Yadav for the way he connects with his teammates, saying the captain has made things much easier for him in T20 cricket. Speaking during India’s T20 World Cup campaign, Gambhir spoke about the strong influence Suryakumar has had on the team through his leadership. "Surya has made my life a lot easier in this format," Gambhir, who has had the most success in T20I cricket as coach, told Star Sports. Gambhir further said that Suryakumar’s batting skills and wide range of shots are already well known, but what truly stands out is his calm nature and how he handles players. According to him, Suryakumar keeps the dressing room relaxed and communicates clearly with everyone. This allows the coach to focus on other aspects of the game, knowing the team environment is in safe hands. "I think he is a phenomenal leader of men – not by what he does on the field, not by the type of batter he is, not by the kind of shots that he plays. All that you can keep aside. But the way he relates to players, the way he talks to players, and how relaxed he is on the field," Gambhir said. "As a coach, you know you can think about other things because he is going to keep the atmosphere pretty calm. Surya the player, I can keep aside, but Surya the leader has ticked every box. It's a great thing when you have someone like him leading the country because his heart is in the right place, and he takes the right decisions for the team" he added. Also Read - India vs Pakistan at T20 World Cup: ICC rejects PCB’s ‘3 demands’; what were those? These comments came a day after Suryakumar played a crucial innings against the USA in Mumbai. India were struggling at 77 for six after 13 overs, but Suryakumar held his nerve and scored 84 runs from 49 balls. His knock helped India reach a competitive total of 161 for nine. The pitch at Wankhede was difficult for batting, as the ball was not coming onto the bat easily. Despite this, Suryakumar adjusted well, using his full range of shots and hit 10 fours and four sixes during his innings. Also Read - Trump slams Olympic skier Hunter Hess for his 'representing US' stance: 'Just because I’m wearing the flag...' Suryakumar also showed sharp thinking as captain during the match, as he trusted his main bowlers and avoided using part-time options. As a result, India managed to restrict the USA to 132 for eight and secured a win. The Suryakumar-led Indian team reached Delhi on Sunday ahead of their next Group A match against Namibia on Feb 12.

Since taking over the captaincy from Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav has led India in 44 matches, winning 35 of them.

‘Made my life a lot easier’: Gautam Gambhir on Suryakumar Yadav’s captaincy

ZEE Media Corporation Limited celebrated the power of sport, resilience, and grassroots excellence at the 2026 edition of ZEE Samvad with Real Heroes, held on February 6, 2026, at The Fairmont, Mumbai. The platform honoured outstanding sportspersons and grassroots champions whose journeys reflect discipline, determination and national pride. A special segment of the evening celebrated the Indian Blind Women’s Cricket Team, recognising their exemplary achievements and contribution to the sport at the grassroots level. The honours were presented by Yoga Guru and social reformer Baba Ramdev, acknowledging the team’s resilience, determination and impact in advancing inclusive sports in India. The team’s recognition highlighted the growing impact of women-led sporting initiatives emerging from India’s heartland and the role of sport in enabling inclusion, confidence and opportunity. Honourees included Simu Das, AnuKumari, Jamuna Rani Tudu, Anekha Devi, BasantiHansdah, SimranjeetKour, SunitaSarathe, ParbatiMarndi, Deepika T C, Phula Soren, Ganga S Kadam, Kavya N R, Sushma Patel, DurgaYevle, and Shika Shetty, whose journeys reflect perseverance, teamwork and competitive excellence at the community level. The team shared their personal journeys, highlighting the challenges of daily life, limited resources, and social constraints, and how sport became a powerful medium of confidence, independence, and collective strength for many players from underprivileged backgrounds.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a> The spirit of adventure and endurance was showcased through Saanvi Sood, who was honoured for her remarkable achievements in mountaineering, inspiring young Indians to push physical and mental boundaries. Yogita Mandavi was also recognised for her outstanding achievements in sports, exemplifying excellence, commitment, and consistency at the competitive level.&nbsp;Through these honours, ZEE Samvad with Real Heroes reinforced the role of sports as a catalyst for empowerment, discipline and social mobility, while spotlighting inspiring stories that often remain beyond the mainstream spotlight.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a> The 4th edition of the conclave reaffirmed ZEE Media’s commitment to celebrating real heroes whose sporting journeys inspire the nation and contribute to shaping India’s future sporting ecosystem.

A special segment of the evening celebrated the Indian Blind Women’s Cricket Team, recognising their exemplary achievements and contribution to the sport at the grassroots level.

ZEE Media Corporation Limited celebrated the power of sport, resilience, and grassroots excellence at the 2026 edition of ZEE Samvad with Real Heroes, held on February 6, 2026, at The Fairmont, Mumbai. The platform honoured outstanding sportspersons and grassroots champions whose journeys reflect discipline, determination and national pride. A special segment of the evening celebrated the Indian Blind Women’s Cricket Team, recognising their exemplary achievements and contribution to the sport at the grassroots level. The honours were presented by Yoga Guru and social reformer Baba Ramdev, acknowledging the team’s resilience, determination and impact in advancing inclusive sports in India. The team’s recognition highlighted the growing impact of women-led sporting initiatives emerging from India’s heartland and the role of sport in enabling inclusion, confidence and opportunity. Honourees included Simu Das, AnuKumari, Jamuna Rani Tudu, Anekha Devi, BasantiHansdah, SimranjeetKour, SunitaSarathe, ParbatiMarndi, Deepika T C, Phula Soren, Ganga S Kadam, Kavya N R, Sushma Patel, DurgaYevle, and Shika Shetty, whose journeys reflect perseverance, teamwork and competitive excellence at the community level. The team shared their personal journeys, highlighting the challenges of daily life, limited resources, and social constraints, and how sport became a powerful medium of confidence, independence, and collective strength for many players from underprivileged backgrounds. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli The spirit of adventure and endurance was showcased through Saanvi Sood, who was honoured for her remarkable achievements in mountaineering, inspiring young Indians to push physical and mental boundaries. Yogita Mandavi was also recognised for her outstanding achievements in sports, exemplifying excellence, commitment, and consistency at the competitive level. Through these honours, ZEE Samvad with Real Heroes reinforced the role of sports as a catalyst for empowerment, discipline and social mobility, while spotlighting inspiring stories that often remain beyond the mainstream spotlight. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds The 4th edition of the conclave reaffirmed ZEE Media’s commitment to celebrating real heroes whose sporting journeys inspire the nation and contribute to shaping India’s future sporting ecosystem.

A special segment of the evening celebrated the Indian Blind Women’s Cricket Team, recognising their exemplary achievements and contribution to the sport at the grassroots level.

Indian Blind Women’s Cricket Team leads sporting honours at ZEE Samvad with Real Heroes 2026

India set a new T20 International record by completing the quickest chase of a 200-plus target, reaching 209 runs in only 15.2 overs against New Zealand at Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur on Friday (Jan 23). The previous record was held by Pakistan, which had completed a 205-run chase against New Zealand in 16 overs last year. India won the match by seven wickets, thanks to strong batting performances from Ishan Kishan and captain Suryakumar Yadav. Kishan scored a quick 76 off 32 balls, hitting 11 fours and four sixes, while captain Suryakumar returned to form with an unbeaten 82 from 37 balls, including nine fours and four sixes.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-ishan-kishan-suryakumar-yadav-dazzle-with-bat-as-india-chase-record-total-in-raipur-take-2-0-lead-in-series-1769188218277">IND vs NZ: Ishan, Surya dazzle with bat as India chase record total in Raipur</a>&nbsp;This was India’s sixth successful chase of 200 or more runs in T20 Internationals, the second-highest number after Australia, which has achieved this seven times. Earlier, India’s fastest 200-plus chase came in 2019 against West Indies, when they chased 208 runs in 18.4 overs in Hyderabad. With this win, India now leads the five-match T20 series against New Zealand 2-0. The team had earlier won the first match in Nagpur by 48 runs.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/trinity-rodman-creates-history-becomes-world-s-highest-paid-women-s-footballer-1769190479578">Trinity Rodman creates history, becomes world’s highest-paid women’s footballer</a>&nbsp;India will begin their World Cup campaign against the USA on Feb 7 in Mumbai. They will then face the Namibia in Delhi on Feb 12 before moving to Colombo to play Pakistan on Feb 15. Their final group match is against Netherlands on Feb 18 in Ahmedabad.<h2>Fastest 200-plus run chases in T20Is</h2><ul><li>India chased down 209 in 15.2 overs vs New Zealand in Raipur (2026)</li><li>Pakistan chased down 205 in 16 overs vs New Zealand in Auckland (2025)</li><li>Qatar chased down 204 in 16 overs vs Kuwait in Doha (2019)</li><li>Australia chased down 215 in 16.1 overs vs West Indies in Basseterre (2025)</li><li>South Africa chased down 206 in 17.4 overs vs West Indies in Johannesburg (2007)</li></ul>

This was India’s sixth successful chase of 200 or more runs in T20 Internationals, the second-highest number after Australia, which has achieved this seven times.

India set a new T20 International record by completing the quickest chase of a 200-plus target, reaching 209 runs in only 15.2 overs against New Zealand at Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur on Friday (Jan 23). The previous record was held by Pakistan, which had completed a 205-run chase against New Zealand in 16 overs last year. India won the match by seven wickets, thanks to strong batting performances from Ishan Kishan and captain Suryakumar Yadav. Kishan scored a quick 76 off 32 balls, hitting 11 fours and four sixes, while captain Suryakumar returned to form with an unbeaten 82 from 37 balls, including nine fours and four sixes. Also Read - IND vs NZ: Ishan, Surya dazzle with bat as India chase record total in Raipur This was India’s sixth successful chase of 200 or more runs in T20 Internationals, the second-highest number after Australia, which has achieved this seven times. Earlier, India’s fastest 200-plus chase came in 2019 against West Indies, when they chased 208 runs in 18.4 overs in Hyderabad. With this win, India now leads the five-match T20 series against New Zealand 2-0. The team had earlier won the first match in Nagpur by 48 runs. Also Read - Trinity Rodman creates history, becomes world’s highest-paid women’s footballer India will begin their World Cup campaign against the USA on Feb 7 in Mumbai. They will then face the Namibia in Delhi on Feb 12 before moving to Colombo to play Pakistan on Feb 15. Their final group match is against Netherlands on Feb 18 in Ahmedabad. Fastest 200-plus run chases in T20Is India chased down 209 in 15.2 overs vs New Zealand in Raipur (2026) Pakistan chased down 205 in 16 overs vs New Zealand in Auckland (2025) Qatar chased down 204 in 16 overs vs Kuwait in Doha (2019) Australia chased down 215 in 16.1 overs vs West Indies in Basseterre (2025) South Africa chased down 206 in 17.4 overs vs West Indies in Johannesburg (2007)

This was India’s sixth successful chase of 200 or more runs in T20 Internationals, the second-highest number after Australia, which has achieved this seven times.

IND vs NZ: India shatters Pakistan’s record with fastest 200-plus T20I chase

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has stooped to a new low by taking an indirect dig at India in a promo for upcoming white-ball series against Australia. Pakistan will host Australia for a three-match series next week, which will be the last preparation for both teams before the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 in India and Sri Lanka. The promotional video shared by PCB on X focuses on Pakistan’s hospitality but also includes a clear reference to the Asia Cup no handshake issue involving India.&nbsp;&nbsp;In the video, an Australian tourist is shown travelling across Pakistan and enjoying the hospitality of the people. Pakistan captain Salman Agha is seen paying for the tourist’s dinner, saying, “You are our guest.” The tourist thanks him and later tells his friend how much he loves Pakistan’s hospitality.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-don-t-feel-it-s-high-risk-abhishek-sharma-on-his-six-hitting-approach-in-t20is-1769068225768">'I don’t feel it’s high risk': Abhishek Sharma on his six-hitting approach in T20Is</a>&nbsp;In another scene, a taxi driver refuses to take money from the Australian tourist. As the tourist walks away, the driver stops him and jokingly says that he forgot to shake hands, adding that it seems like he had stayed in a neighboring country. This line is widely seen as a dig at India’s refusal to shake hands with Pakistan players during last year’s Asia Cup.&nbsp;<h2>Watch the video</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">“Handshake bhool gaye aap lagta hai ,padosiyon ke paas bhi rukay thay aap&quot; PCB ABSOLUTELY COOKED INDIA IN THE PROMO FOR AUSTRALIA’S TOUR OF PAKISTAN 😂🔥 That&#39;s some content 👌<a href="https://t.co/SaQWmCHVkG">pic.twitter.com/SaQWmCHVkG</a>&mdash; junaiz (@dhillow_) <a href="https://twitter.com/dhillow_/status/2013978461874925692?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 21, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Many see the PCB video as a response to India’s popular “Mauka Mauka” advertisements, which often mock Pakistan’s poor record against India in ICC events.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bbl-15-babar-azam-leaves-sydney-sixers-to-link-up-with-pakistan-team-for-camp-1769067745572">BBL 15: Babar Azam leaves Sydney Sixers to link up with Pakistan team for camp</a>&nbsp;The promo ends with the tourist telling Salman Agha that he is enjoying Pakistan, but it would be even better if Australia beat Pakistan in the series. Agha replies that Pakistan is a welcoming host, but when it comes to cricket, they are fully prepared.<h2>India and Pakistan’s no-handshake stance</h2>India first followed the no-handshake policy during the Asia Cup 2025, when captain Suryakumar Yadav did not shake hands with Pakistan captain Agha. The same approach was seen in the Women’s World Cup match in Colombo, where Harmanpreet Kaur did not shake hands with Pakistan captain Fatima Sana.&nbsp;Indian teams at the Rising Stars Asia Cup and the Under-19 Asia Cup also followed this policy, saying it was a sign of support for the Indian armed forces and the victims of the Pahalgam attack. &nbsp;India and Pakistan are set to face each other next in the T20 World Cup 2026 on February 15 in Colombo.&nbsp;

Many see the PCB video as a response to India’s popular “Mauka Mauka” advertisements, which often mock Pakistan’s poor record against India in ICC events. 

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has stooped to a new low by taking an indirect dig at India in a promo for upcoming white-ball series against Australia. Pakistan will host Australia for a three-match series next week, which will be the last preparation for both teams before the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 in India and Sri Lanka. The promotional video shared by PCB on X focuses on Pakistan’s hospitality but also includes a clear reference to the Asia Cup no handshake issue involving India. In the video, an Australian tourist is shown travelling across Pakistan and enjoying the hospitality of the people. Pakistan captain Salman Agha is seen paying for the tourist’s dinner, saying, “You are our guest.” The tourist thanks him and later tells his friend how much he loves Pakistan’s hospitality. Also Read - 'I don’t feel it’s high risk': Abhishek Sharma on his six-hitting approach in T20Is In another scene, a taxi driver refuses to take money from the Australian tourist. As the tourist walks away, the driver stops him and jokingly says that he forgot to shake hands, adding that it seems like he had stayed in a neighboring country. This line is widely seen as a dig at India’s refusal to shake hands with Pakistan players during last year’s Asia Cup. Watch the video

Pakistan will host Australia for a three-match series next week, which will be the last preparation for both teams before the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 in India and Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

Pakistan stoops to new low with 'handshake' dig at India in Australia series promo | WATCH

The 2026 T20 World Cup will start on Feb 7, with India and Sri Lanka co-hosting the event. A total of 20 teams will compete and they have been divided into four groups of five sides each. India are placed in Group A with Pakistan, the Netherlands, Namibia and the USA.&nbsp;With little over a month to go for the tournament, former England captain Eoin Morgan reflected his views on India's chances in the upcoming tournament. The Men in Blue, who have won the tournament twice and are the defending champions will start their campaign against the USA at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium on Feb 7.<h2>Morgan reflects on India's chances</h2>“Anytime India comes to a World Cup, the level of expectation is always there to win it. The India vs England semi-final was painted to be an absolute spectacle of a game," Gavaskar was quoted as saying to digital broadcasters. “What unfolded, about ten overs into India’s batting, I remember turning to Sunil Gavaskar in the commentary box and asking where this bravery, this courage, this fearless style of play that India had played with in the tournament,” he added.&nbsp;Also Read &nbsp;- <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2025-26-ex-england-skipper-alastair-cook-says-unfair-contest-after-20-wickets-fall-on-day-1-of-boxing-day-test-1766741128461">Ashes 2025-26: Ex-England skipper Alastair Cook says 'unfair contest' after 20 wickets fall on day 1 of Boxing Day Test</a><h2>Ishan Kishan returns to Team India</h2>Ishan Kishan returned to the Indian T20 World Cup 2026 squad after he led Jharkhand to their maiden Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) title win. The BCCI selection committee led by Ajit Agarkar announced the India squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026 on Dec 20.&nbsp;&nbsp;Much to the surprise, Shubman Gill, India’s T20 vice-captain in T20Is, was dropped alongside Jitesh Sharma in the 15-man squad.&nbsp;<h2>India's squad for T20 World Cup&nbsp;</h2>Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (wicketkeeper), Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel (vice-captain), Rinku Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy, Washington Sundar, Ishan Kishan<h2>India’s T20 World Cup 2026 schedule</h2><ul><li>India vs USA - Feb 7 - Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai</li><li>India vs Namibia - Feb 12 - Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi</li><li>India vs Pakistan - Feb 15 - R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo</li><li>India vs Netherlands - Feb 18 - Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad</li></ul><h2>How many T20Is will India play before 2026 T20 World Cup?</h2>As part of their preparation for the 2026 T20 World Cup, India will host New Zealand for a five-match T20I series next year. Below is a full look at India’s build-up, including the opponents and match dates.<h2>IND vs NZ, T20Is - Full schedule</h2><ul><li>1st T20I: 21 Jan, 2026, at Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium in Nagpur (7:00 PM IST)</li><li>2nd T20I: 23 Jan, 2026, at Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur (7:00 PM IST)</li><li>3rd T20I: 25 Jan, 2026, at Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati (7:00 PM IST)</li><li>4th T20I: 28 Jan, 2026, at Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam (7:00 PM IST)</li><li>5th T20I: 31 Jan, 2026, at Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram (7:00 PM IST)</li></ul>

The Men in Blue, who have won the tournament twice and are the defending champions will start their campaign against the USA at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium on Feb 7.

The 2026 T20 World Cup will start on Feb 7, with India and Sri Lanka co-hosting the event. A total of 20 teams will compete and they have been divided into four groups of five sides each. India are placed in Group A with Pakistan, the Netherlands, Namibia and the USA. With little over a month to go for the tournament, former England captain Eoin Morgan reflected his views on India's chances in the upcoming tournament. The Men in Blue, who have won the tournament twice and are the defending champions will start their campaign against the USA at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium on Feb 7. Morgan reflects on India's chances “Anytime India comes to a World Cup, the level of expectation is always there to win it. The India vs England semi-final was painted to be an absolute spectacle of a game," Gavaskar was quoted as saying to digital broadcasters. “What unfolded, about ten overs into India’s batting, I remember turning to Sunil Gavaskar in the commentary box and asking where this bravery, this courage, this fearless style of play that India had played with in the tournament,” he added. Also Read - Ashes 2025-26: Ex-England skipper Alastair Cook says 'unfair contest' after 20 wickets fall on day 1 of Boxing Day Test Ishan Kishan returns to Team India Ishan Kishan returned to the Indian T20 World Cup 2026 squad after he led Jharkhand to their maiden Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) title win. The BCCI selection committee led by Ajit Agarkar announced the India squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026 on Dec 20. Much to the surprise, Shubman Gill, India’s T20 vice-captain in T20Is, was dropped alongside Jitesh Sharma in the 15-man squad. India's squad for T20 World Cup Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (wicketkeeper), Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel (vice-captain), Rinku Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy, Washington Sundar, Ishan Kishan India’s T20 World Cup 2026 schedule India vs USA - Feb 7 - Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai India vs Namibia - Feb 12 - Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi India vs Pakistan - Feb 15 - R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo India vs Netherlands - Feb 18 - Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad How many T20Is will India play before 2026 T20 World Cup? As part of their preparation for the 2026 T20 World Cup, India will host New Zealand for a five-match T20I series next year. Below is a full look at India’s build-up, including the opponents and match dates. IND vs NZ, T20Is - Full schedule 1st T20I: 21 Jan, 2026, at Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium in Nagpur (7:00 PM IST) 2nd T20I: 23 Jan, 2026, at Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur (7:00 PM IST) 3rd T20I: 25 Jan, 2026, at Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati (7:00 PM IST) 4th T20I: 28 Jan, 2026, at Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam (7:00 PM IST) 5th T20I: 31 Jan, 2026, at Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram (7:00 PM IST)

The Men in Blue, who have won the tournament twice and are the defending champions will start their campaign against the USA at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium on Feb 7.

T20 World Cup 2026: Ex-England captain Eoin Morgan reflects on India's chances, says 'expectation is always...'

India beat Pakistan by two runs in their Pool C match of Hong Kong Sixes 2025 at the Mission Road Ground in Mong Kok on Friday (Nov 7). Batting first, India made a good total of 86 runs for the loss of four wickets in six overs. Bharath Chipli&nbsp;(24) and Robin Uthappa (28) were the main scorers. Captain Dinesh Karthik also contributed 17 runs in the end. For Pakistan, &nbsp;Muhammad Shahzad took two important wickets for 15 runs, while Abdul Samad picked up one wicket.&nbsp;Chasing a total of 86 runs in six overs, Pakistan ended up at 41/3 before the rain came in and India were declared winners by two runs based on the DLS method.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wion-exclusive-pratika-rawal-finally-gets-her-world-cup-medal-after-indias-historic-triumph-pratika-icc-women-s-world-cup-1762506051392">WION Exclusive | Pratika Rawal finally gets her World Cup medal after India’s historic triumph</a>&nbsp;India will now look to carry this momentum into their next Hong Kong Sixes 2025 matches.<h2>What is Hong Kong Sixes 2025?</h2>The Hong Kong Sixes is a quick and exciting cricket tournament that began in the 1990s. It was created to give Hong Kong’s players and fans a chance to see international cricketers. The 2025 Hong Kong Sixes is the 21st edition of the event and is being held at the Mission Road Ground in Mong Kok, Hong Kong. A total of 12 teams are taking part this year.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aussie-skipper-alyssa-healy-concedes-semis-loss-against-india-will-haunt-me-for-a-little-while-1762505494532">Aussie skipper Alyssa Healy concedes semis loss against India will 'haunt me for a little while'</a><h2>What is the format of Hong Kong Sixes 2025</h2>In the group stage, each team will play once against every other in their pool (single round-robin format). The top two teams from each group will move on to the quarterfinals.&nbsp;

India will now look to carry this momentum into their next Hong Kong Sixes 2025 matches.

India beat Pakistan by two runs in their Pool C match of Hong Kong Sixes 2025 at the Mission Road Ground in Mong Kok on Friday (Nov 7). Batting first, India made a good total of 86 runs for the loss of four wickets in six overs. Bharath Chipli (24) and Robin Uthappa (28) were the main scorers. Captain Dinesh Karthik also contributed 17 runs in the end. For Pakistan, Muhammad Shahzad took two important wickets for 15 runs, while Abdul Samad picked up one wicket. Chasing a total of 86 runs in six overs, Pakistan ended up at 41/3 before the rain came in and India were declared winners by two runs based on the DLS method. Also Read - WION Exclusive | Pratika Rawal finally gets her World Cup medal after India’s historic triumph India will now look to carry this momentum into their next Hong Kong Sixes 2025 matches. What is Hong Kong Sixes 2025? The Hong Kong Sixes is a quick and exciting cricket tournament that began in the 1990s. It was created to give Hong Kong’s players and fans a chance to see international cricketers. The 2025 Hong Kong Sixes is the 21st edition of the event and is being held at the Mission Road Ground in Mong Kok, Hong Kong. A total of 12 teams are taking part this year. Also Read - Aussie skipper Alyssa Healy concedes semis loss against India will 'haunt me for a little while' What is the format of Hong Kong Sixes 2025 In the group stage, each team will play once against every other in their pool (single round-robin format). The top two teams from each group will move on to the quarterfinals.

India will now look to carry this momentum into their next Hong Kong Sixes 2025 matches.

IND vs PAK, Hong Kong Sixers 2025: India beat Pakistan by two runs (DLS method)

Shubman Gill, fresh from his stellar showing in the recent Test series against England, is emerging as the player in focus ahead of the Asia Cup T20 in the UAE next month. However, he may have competition from Axar Patel for the vice-captain’s role in the Indian squad. Pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah is also set to feature in the tournament, though he is likely to be rested for the first Test against the West Indies in early October.&nbsp;The Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee is expected to name the Asia Cup squad on August 19 or 20, depending on when the Centre of Excellence’s Sports Science team submits the medical report for all players. This includes skipper Suryakumar Yadav, who has resumed batting practice at the nets in Bengaluru.&nbsp;While some tough selection calls lie ahead, the selectors are keen to maintain the continuity that has brought success since Suryakumar took charge as T20 captain. Axar Patel was the vice-captain during the recent home series against England, while Gill had the role when Suryakumar was first appointed full-time skipper in Sri Lanka last year.&nbsp;"Abhishek Sharma is world's No. 1 T20 batter in last ICC rankings. Sanju Samson has been fantastic last season with both bat and gloves. So it will certainly be a tough call but Shubman in current form (although in Tests) can't be ignored. He had a good IPL also. Problem for selectors is, there are too many performers at the top of the order," a BCCI source privy to developments was quoted saying to news agency PTI. &nbsp;This surplus makes it difficult to slot in Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sai Sudharsan. KL Rahul, now India’s first-choice ODI wicketkeeper, is also unlikely to be considered as he does not bat in the middle order.<h2>Second wicketkeeper race</h2>Samson is almost certain to take the first keeper’s spot, leaving the second slot to be contested between Jitesh Sharma and Dhruv Jurel. Jurel featured in the last T20 series, while Jitesh impressed as a finisher during RCB’s IPL-winning campaign.<h2>Injury update</h2>Hardik Pandya remains India’s primary white-ball seam-bowling all-rounder, but Nitish Kumar Reddy is unlikely to recover from the injury he picked up against England. Shivam Dube, who made an impactful comeback in that series, is expected to retain his place. Axar Patel and Washington Sundar will provide spin-bowling all-round options.<h2>Seam attack question</h2>With Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh confirmed, the third seamer’s slot will likely go to either Prasidh Krishna—who took 25 wickets in the last IPL—or Harshit Rana, known for his heavy deliveries.<h2>Likely Contenders for Asia Cup Squad:</h2>Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Shubman Gill, Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (wicket-keeper), Tilak Varma, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Varun Chakravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Harshit Rana/Prasidh Krishna, Hardik Pandya, Jitesh Sharma/Dhruv Jurel.

Asia Cup 2025: Vice-captaincy change on the cards? Bumrah among front-runners — Reports

Shubman Gill, fresh from his stellar showing in the recent Test series against England, is emerging as the player in focus ahead of the Asia Cup T20 in the UAE next month. However, he may have competition from Axar Patel for the vice-captain’s role in the Indian squad. Pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah is also set to feature in the tournament, though he is likely to be rested for the first Test against the West Indies in early October. The Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee is expected to name the Asia Cup squad on August 19 or 20, depending on when the Centre of Excellence’s Sports Science team submits the medical report for all players. This includes skipper Suryakumar Yadav, who has resumed batting practice at the nets in Bengaluru. While some tough selection calls lie ahead, the selectors are keen to maintain the continuity that has brought success since Suryakumar took charge as T20 captain. Axar Patel was the vice-captain during the recent home series against England, while Gill had the role when Suryakumar was first appointed full-time skipper in Sri Lanka last year. "Abhishek Sharma is world's No. 1 T20 batter in last ICC rankings. Sanju Samson has been fantastic last season with both bat and gloves. So it will certainly be a tough call but Shubman in current form (although in Tests) can't be ignored. He had a good IPL also. Problem for selectors is, there are too many performers at the top of the order," a BCCI source privy to developments was quoted saying to news agency PTI. This surplus makes it difficult to slot in Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sai Sudharsan. KL Rahul, now India’s first-choice ODI wicketkeeper, is also unlikely to be considered as he does not bat in the middle order. Second wicketkeeper race Samson is almost certain to take the first keeper’s spot, leaving the second slot to be contested between Jitesh Sharma and Dhruv Jurel. Jurel featured in the last T20 series, while Jitesh impressed as a finisher during RCB’s IPL-winning campaign. Injury update Hardik Pandya remains India’s primary white-ball seam-bowling all-rounder, but Nitish Kumar Reddy is unlikely to recover from the injury he picked up against England. Shivam Dube, who made an impactful comeback in that series, is expected to retain his place. Axar Patel and Washington Sundar will provide spin-bowling all-round options. Seam attack question With Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh confirmed, the third seamer’s slot will likely go to either Prasidh Krishna—who took 25 wickets in the last IPL—or Harshit Rana, known for his heavy deliveries. Likely Contenders for Asia Cup Squad: Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Shubman Gill, Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (wicket-keeper), Tilak Varma, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Varun Chakravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Harshit Rana/Prasidh Krishna, Hardik Pandya, Jitesh Sharma/Dhruv Jurel.

The Asia Cup is scheduled to begin from September 9, 2025. India will play first match against UAE on September 10 at the Dubai International stadium

India and Pakistan have been at loggerheads since the terrorist attack on Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir in April, in which 26 innocent civilians were killed. Following that, the two nations' cricketing relations have also plummeted. Recently, two World Championship of Legends (WCL) matches between the two countries were cancelled as the India Champions players refused to play against their Pakistani counterparts. Likewise, the fate of the upcoming Asia Cup match between Pakistan and India also remains uncertain.&nbsp;&nbsp;Pakistan and India are set to lock horns in Dubai on September 14, with chances of both teams meeting in the Super 4s round and the final. With only a bit more than a month to go for the start of the tournament, Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) Chief Operating Officer Subhan Ahmed has said that chances are slim that the two sides would not play against one another in the Asia Cup.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/haider-ali-arrest-what-is-the-case-against-pakistani-cricketer-held-in-uk-1754635229525">Haider Ali Arrest: What is the case against Pakistani cricketer held in UK</a>&nbsp;"While I cannot give a formal guarantee, there is no risk of Pakistan and India not playing. The Asia Cup cannot be compared to private tournaments like the World Championship of Legends, where India refused to play against Pakistan in both the league stage and semi-final," Subhan Ahmed was quoted saying to the reporters. &nbsp;Abu Dhabi and Dubai have been confirmed as official host cities for the 2025 Men's T20 Asia Cup, which will take place from September 9 to 28. Dubai will host 11 matches, including the summit clash, while Abu Dhabi will host the remaining eight matches. India will host its Group A matches against UAE and the high-octane clash against Pakistan at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on September 10 and 14 respectively, with its match against Oman scheduled to take place at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi on September 19.

Asia Cup 2025 India Pakistan match a high probability Heres what UAE official said on mother of all clashes

India and Pakistan have been at loggerheads since the terrorist attack on Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir in April, in which 26 innocent civilians were killed. Following that, the two nations' cricketing relations have also plummeted. Recently, two World Championship of Legends (WCL) matches between the two countries were cancelled as the India Champions players refused to play against their Pakistani counterparts. Likewise, the fate of the upcoming Asia Cup match between Pakistan and India also remains uncertain. Pakistan and India are set to lock horns in Dubai on September 14, with chances of both teams meeting in the Super 4s round and the final. With only a bit more than a month to go for the start of the tournament, Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) Chief Operating Officer Subhan Ahmed has said that chances are slim that the two sides would not play against one another in the Asia Cup. Also Read: Haider Ali Arrest: What is the case against Pakistani cricketer held in UK "While I cannot give a formal guarantee, there is no risk of Pakistan and India not playing. The Asia Cup cannot be compared to private tournaments like the World Championship of Legends, where India refused to play against Pakistan in both the league stage and semi-final," Subhan Ahmed was quoted saying to the reporters. Abu Dhabi and Dubai have been confirmed as official host cities for the 2025 Men's T20 Asia Cup, which will take place from September 9 to 28. Dubai will host 11 matches, including the summit clash, while Abu Dhabi will host the remaining eight matches. India will host its Group A matches against UAE and the high-octane clash against Pakistan at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on September 10 and 14 respectively, with its match against Oman scheduled to take place at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi on September 19.

The Asia Cup is set to begin from September 9, 2025. India will play their first match against UAE on September 10 at the Dubai International Stadium

Asia Cup 2025: India-Pakistan match a high probability? Here's what UAE official said on 'mother of all clashes'

Indian men's and women's teams will be visiting England in 2026 for the white-ball series, as well as the inaugural one-off women's Test at Lord's, after the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) announced the home schedule for the 2026 summer on Thursday (July 24). India men's tour of England next year, beginning July 1, will include five T20Is and three ODIs in 2026, while the women will play three T20Is from May 28.&nbsp;The England men's team will start their summer with three Tests against New Zealand from June 4-25, then five T20Is and three ODIs against India (July 1 -19). They will then welcome Pakistan for three Tests from August 19 to September 9, before welcoming Sri Lanka for three T20Is and three ODIs from September 15-27.&nbsp;“I’m sure fans will be excited to watch Ben Stokes’ and Harry Brook’s England teams, the Men's red-ball and white-ball teams, both offering so much in the way of entertainment. It's terrific to see so many different nations coming over to compete, and we can expect another summer of big crowds and fantastic cricket," ECB Chief Executive Officer Richard Gould said. The summer of 2026 will also welcome England women to host the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 between June 12 and July 15, shining the global light on women's cricket. Meanwhile, on either side of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, Nat Sciver-Brunt will lead England women in a packed home schedule featuring New Zealand, India, and Ireland, including a Test match against India at Lord’s. England women will host New Zealand for three ODIs and as many T20Is from May 10 to May 25. They will subsequently play three T20Is against India from May 28 to July 10 prior to the home T20 World Cup. Once the World Cup finishes on July 5 at the Lord's, the ground will host a one-off Test against India on July 10. The women's team will also face Ireland in three ODIs from September 1-6.&nbsp;“The highlight of the summer will undoubtedly be the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, hosted here in England for the first time since 2009. It’s a huge moment for the women’s game, for Nat Sciver-Brunt and her team, and it’s a fantastic opportunity to inspire the next generation of players and fans. And just after that, we're thrilled that Lord's will also host an England Women's Test match for the first time, marking a really special period for the women’s game," Gould added.&nbsp;ECB also said that international disability games will be announced in soon, with the England men's mixed disability team recently trialling mixed disability cricket at international level.

ECB confirms India men, women teams to tour England in 2026

Indian men's and women's teams will be visiting England in 2026 for the white-ball series, as well as the inaugural one-off women's Test at Lord's, after the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) announced the home schedule for the 2026 summer on Thursday (July 24). India men's tour of England next year, beginning July 1, will include five T20Is and three ODIs in 2026, while the women will play three T20Is from May 28. The England men's team will start their summer with three Tests against New Zealand from June 4-25, then five T20Is and three ODIs against India (July 1 -19). They will then welcome Pakistan for three Tests from August 19 to September 9, before welcoming Sri Lanka for three T20Is and three ODIs from September 15-27. “I’m sure fans will be excited to watch Ben Stokes’ and Harry Brook’s England teams, the Men's red-ball and white-ball teams, both offering so much in the way of entertainment. It's terrific to see so many different nations coming over to compete, and we can expect another summer of big crowds and fantastic cricket," ECB Chief Executive Officer Richard Gould said. The summer of 2026 will also welcome England women to host the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 between June 12 and July 15, shining the global light on women's cricket. Meanwhile, on either side of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, Nat Sciver-Brunt will lead England women in a packed home schedule featuring New Zealand, India, and Ireland, including a Test match against India at Lord’s. England women will host New Zealand for three ODIs and as many T20Is from May 10 to May 25. They will subsequently play three T20Is against India from May 28 to July 10 prior to the home T20 World Cup. Once the World Cup finishes on July 5 at the Lord's, the ground will host a one-off Test against India on July 10. The women's team will also face Ireland in three ODIs from September 1-6. “The highlight of the summer will undoubtedly be the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, hosted here in England for the first time since 2009. It’s a huge moment for the women’s game, for Nat Sciver-Brunt and her team, and it’s a fantastic opportunity to inspire the next generation of players and fans. And just after that, we're thrilled that Lord's will also host an England Women's Test match for the first time, marking a really special period for the women’s game," Gould added. ECB also said that international disability games will be announced in soon, with the England men's mixed disability team recently trialling mixed disability cricket at international level.

The India men's tour to England next year, starting from July 1, will include five T20Is and three ODIs in 2026, while the women will play three T20Is starting from May 28

Melbourne, Australia
Australia received a massive boost for the Boxing Day Test against India in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy after Travis Head was declared fit to play.
Cricket Australia management announced on Christmas Day that Head will be available for selection despite complaining of quad strain after the Gabba Test.
As reported by WION on Tuesday, Sam Konstas will also make his debut for Australia in the traditional MCG contest, which will bring the curtains down on the Test calendar.
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JUST IN: Australia's XI for the Boxing Day blockbuster is locked in | <a href="https://twitter.com/LouisDBCameron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LouisDBCameron</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/uILWQn8JJl">https://t.co/uILWQn8JJl</a>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1871701432556261815?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Head declared fit for Boxing Day Test</h2>
With a place in the World Test Championship (WTC) final up for grabs, Australia were eager to get Head into their Playing XI subject to a fitness test. After tests on Wednesday morning, Head was declared fit and will participate in the Boxing Day Test on Thursday at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). His fitness will be a boost for the management, considering his form for the side in the series, with two hundreds.
"Trav's good to go, he'll play," Aussie skipper Pat Cummins said. "He just ticked off some final things today and yesterday. But no worries about injury with Trav. He'll go into the game fully fit.
"I don't think you'll see too much management of him throughout the game. He just kind of plays as is. Maybe around fielding, if he's a bit uncomfortable, we will (manage him), but he's fully fit."
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/former-india-batter-vinod-kambli-thanks-sachin-tendulkar-for-his-blessings-as-he-battles-ailing-health-786539">Former India batter Vinod Kambli thanks Sachin Tendulkar for 'his blessings' as he battles ailing health</a>
<h2>Australia make two changes</h2>
In two changes made for the MCG Test, 19-year-old Sam Konstas is set to make his debut for Australia as the youngest-ever opener for the hosts, replacing out-of-favour Nathan McSweeney. The other change sees Scott Boland replace injured Josh Hazlewood with the former returning after playing the pink-ball Test in Adelaide.
Australia Playing XI: Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Mitch Marsh, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland

Cricket Australia management announced on Christmas Day that Travis Head will be available for selection despite complaining of a quad strain after the Gabba Test. As reported by WION on Tuesday, Sam Konstas will also make his debut for Australia in the traditional MCG contest, which drops curtains on the Test calendar



Melbourne, Australia Australia received a massive boost for the Boxing Day Test against India in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy after Travis Head was declared fit to play. Cricket Australia management announced on Christmas Day that Head will be available for selection despite complaining of quad strain after the Gabba Test. As reported by WION on Tuesday, Sam Konstas will also make his debut for Australia in the traditional MCG contest, which will bring the curtains down on the Test calendar. JUST IN: Australia's XI for the Boxing Day blockbuster is locked in | @LouisDBCameron #AUSvIND https://t.co/uILWQn8JJl — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 24, 2024 × Head declared fit for Boxing Day Test With a place in the World Test Championship (WTC) final up for grabs, Australia were eager to get Head into their Playing XI subject to a fitness test. After tests on Wednesday morning, Head was declared fit and will participate in the Boxing Day Test on Thursday at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). His fitness will be a boost for the management, considering his form for the side in the series, with two hundreds. "Trav's good to go, he'll play," Aussie skipper Pat Cummins said. "He just ticked off some final things today and yesterday. But no worries about injury with Trav. He'll go into the game fully fit. "I don't think you'll see too much management of him throughout the game. He just kind of plays as is. Maybe around fielding, if he's a bit uncomfortable, we will (manage him), but he's fully fit." ALSO READ | Former India batter Vinod Kambli thanks Sachin Tendulkar for 'his blessings' as he battles ailing health Australia make two changes In two changes made for the MCG Test, 19-year-old Sam Konstas is set to make his debut for Australia as the youngest-ever opener for the hosts, replacing out-of-favour Nathan McSweeney. The other change sees Scott Boland replace injured Josh Hazlewood with the former returning after playing the pink-ball Test in Adelaide. Australia Playing XI: Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Mitch Marsh, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland

BGT 2024/25: Travis Head declared fit for Boxing Day Test as Australia announce Playing XI; Konstas to debut

Melbourne, Australia
India skipper Rohit Sharma has declared himself fit for the Boxing Day Test match against Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, dismissing any injury concerns. Speaking to the press ahead of the fourth Test match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Rohit said his knee is doing fine and will be available for selection in the traditional contest. On the other hand, he has also backed the likes of Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill to come good in the series as India chase a spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) final.
<h2>Rohit dismisses injury concern</h2>
"My knee is fine," said Rohit on Christmas Eve ahead of the fourth Border-Gavaskar Test between India and Australia.
"Let's not worry about who bats where. Something that we need to figure out and not something I would be discussing here. We will do what is best for the team," Rohit on Kohli's form.
Rohit was hit on the knee on Monday during the practice session at MCG. India will head into the Boxing Day contest fighting for a place in the WTC final, with a win putting them in pole position. Rohit’s men have a proud recent record at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) having avoided defeats on their last three defeats. Interestingly, India have won the last two Tests at the venue under the leadership of Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane respectively. Under MS Dhoni’s leadership, India drew the 2014 Boxing Day Test while Australia’s last win came in the 2011-12 Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-202425-head-coach-andrew-mcdonald-confirms-sam-konstas-debut-for-boxing-day-test-travis-head-uncertain-786336">BGT 2024/25: Head coach Andrew McDonald confirms Sam Konstas debut for Boxing Day Test; Travis Head uncertain</a>
<h2>Pant, Gill to come good at MCG?</h2>
So far in the BGT, Rishabh Pant has scored 96 runs in the five innings, scoring at an average of 19.2. On the other hand, Gill has scored 151 runs in five innings, again being a concern for the management. However, Rohit has backed them to come good in the BGT and show their class. Yashasvi Jaiswal has also struggled to cope with the Aussie bowling attack excluding his second innings heroics at Optus Stadium in Perth.
Currently, the BGT is all square at 1-1 after a draw at Gabba between India and Australia. Earlier, India had won the Perth Test with a record margin of 295 runs while Australia returned the favours with a 10-wicket win in the pink-ball Test in Adelaide.

Speaking to the press ahead of the fourth Test match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Rohit Sharma said his knee is doing fine and will be available for selection in the traditional contest. On the other hand, he has also backed the likes of Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill to come good in the series as India chase a spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) final.



Melbourne, Australia India skipper Rohit Sharma has declared himself fit for the Boxing Day Test match against Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, dismissing any injury concerns. Speaking to the press ahead of the fourth Test match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Rohit said his knee is doing fine and will be available for selection in the traditional contest. On the other hand, he has also backed the likes of Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill to come good in the series as India chase a spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) final. Rohit dismisses injury concern "My knee is fine," said Rohit on Christmas Eve ahead of the fourth Border-Gavaskar Test between India and Australia. "Let's not worry about who bats where. Something that we need to figure out and not something I would be discussing here. We will do what is best for the team," Rohit on Kohli's form. Rohit was hit on the knee on Monday during the practice session at MCG. India will head into the Boxing Day contest fighting for a place in the WTC final, with a win putting them in pole position. Rohit’s men have a proud recent record at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) having avoided defeats on their last three defeats. Interestingly, India have won the last two Tests at the venue under the leadership of Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane respectively. Under MS Dhoni’s leadership, India drew the 2014 Boxing Day Test while Australia’s last win came in the 2011-12 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. ALSO READ | BGT 2024/25: Head coach Andrew McDonald confirms Sam Konstas debut for Boxing Day Test; Travis Head uncertain Pant, Gill to come good at MCG? So far in the BGT, Rishabh Pant has scored 96 runs in the five innings, scoring at an average of 19.2. On the other hand, Gill has scored 151 runs in five innings, again being a concern for the management. However, Rohit has backed them to come good in the BGT and show their class. Yashasvi Jaiswal has also struggled to cope with the Aussie bowling attack excluding his second innings heroics at Optus Stadium in Perth. Currently, the BGT is all square at 1-1 after a draw at Gabba between India and Australia. Earlier, India had won the Perth Test with a record margin of 295 runs while Australia returned the favours with a 10-wicket win in the pink-ball Test in Adelaide.

BGT 2024/25: 'My knee is fine, let's not worry,' says Rohit Sharma ahead of Boxing Day Test against Australia

Chennai, India
Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin's wife Prithi has shared a heartfelt note on the cricketer's recent international retirement. Ashwin retired after the end of the third Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test at Gabba in Brisbane on Wednesday (Dec 18).
"It has been a blurry two days for me. I have been thinking about what I can say.. Do I put this down as a tribute to my all time favorite cricketer ? Maybe I’ll just take the partner angle? Or maybe a love letter from a fan girl? I guess this is a little bit of all of it.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-2024-25-unfortunately-wasnt-able-aussie-opener-nathan-mcsweeney-opens-up-on-test-squad-axing-785733">'Unfortunately wasn't able...,' Aussie opener Nathan McSweeney opens up on Test squad axing</a>
"When I saw Ashwin's PC, I thought of small and big moments. Many many memories over the last 13-14 years. The big wins , the MOS awards, the quiet silence in our room after an intense game, the sound of the shower running for much longer than usual on some evenings post play , the scratch of pencil over paper as he scribbled thoughts down, the constant streaming of footage videos when he is making a game plan, the calm of meditative breathing before leaving for each game, certain songs playing on repeat while he unwinds.. The times we wept in joy - after the CT final, after the MCG win, after the Sydney draw, The Gabba win, after making a comeback in T20s…the times we sat in silence and the times when we had our hearts broken.
"Dear Ashwin, from not knowing how to put a kit bag together to following you to stadiums all over the world, rooting for you, watching you and learning from you, it has been an absolute pleasure. The world you introduced me to gave me the privilege to watch and enjoy a sport that I love from close quarters. It also showed me how much passion, hard work and discipline is needed to keep your head above water. And sometimes even that is not enough. I remember us talking about why you, R Ashwin, had to do all of this and a lot more to even stay relevant in the scheme of things. How awards, the best of stats, the POMs, the accolades, the records didn’t matter if you didn’t sharpen your skill sets constantly and did not put in the work. Sometimes, nothing is enough. As you end your wonderful international run, I only want to tell you that it’s all good. It is all going to be good. It is time to set the burden of being you down. Live life on your terms, make space for those extra calories, make time for your family, make time to do absolutely nothing, share memes all day, create a new bowling variation, bug our kids out of their minds. Just do it all," she wrote on an Instagram post.
Ashwin sent shockwaves in the cricketing world with his sudden retirement announcement. He retired as one of India's greats, having taken 537 Test wickets, which are second only to Anil Kumble's 619, and 765 wickets in all internationals, again second only to Kumble's 953.

Ashwin sent shockwaves in the cricketing world with his sudden retirement announcement. He retired as one of India's greats, having taken 537 Test wickets, which are second only to Anil Kumble's 619, and 765 wickets in all internationals, again second only to Kumble's 953



Chennai, India Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin's wife Prithi has shared a heartfelt note on the cricketer's recent international retirement. Ashwin retired after the end of the third Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test at Gabba in Brisbane on Wednesday (Dec 18). "It has been a blurry two days for me. I have been thinking about what I can say.. Do I put this down as a tribute to my all time favorite cricketer ? Maybe I’ll just take the partner angle? Or maybe a love letter from a fan girl? I guess this is a little bit of all of it. Also Read: 'Unfortunately wasn't able...,' Aussie opener Nathan McSweeney opens up on Test squad axing "When I saw Ashwin's PC, I thought of small and big moments. Many many memories over the last 13-14 years. The big wins , the MOS awards, the quiet silence in our room after an intense game, the sound of the shower running for much longer than usual on some evenings post play , the scratch of pencil over paper as he scribbled thoughts down, the constant streaming of footage videos when he is making a game plan, the calm of meditative breathing before leaving for each game, certain songs playing on repeat while he unwinds.. The times we wept in joy - after the CT final, after the MCG win, after the Sydney draw, The Gabba win, after making a comeback in T20s…the times we sat in silence and the times when we had our hearts broken. "Dear Ashwin, from not knowing how to put a kit bag together to following you to stadiums all over the world, rooting for you, watching you and learning from you, it has been an absolute pleasure. The world you introduced me to gave me the privilege to watch and enjoy a sport that I love from close quarters. It also showed me how much passion, hard work and discipline is needed to keep your head above water. And sometimes even that is not enough. I remember us talking about why you, R Ashwin, had to do all of this and a lot more to even stay relevant in the scheme of things. How awards, the best of stats, the POMs, the accolades, the records didn’t matter if you didn’t sharpen your skill sets constantly and did not put in the work. Sometimes, nothing is enough. As you end your wonderful international run, I only want to tell you that it’s all good. It is all going to be good. It is time to set the burden of being you down. Live life on your terms, make space for those extra calories, make time for your family, make time to do absolutely nothing, share memes all day, create a new bowling variation, bug our kids out of their minds. Just do it all," she wrote on an Instagram post. Ashwin sent shockwaves in the cricketing world with his sudden retirement announcement. He retired as one of India's greats, having taken 537 Test wickets, which are second only to Anil Kumble's 619, and 765 wickets in all internationals, again second only to Kumble's 953.

'When we had our hearts broken,' wife Prithi shares note on Ravi Ashwin's retirement - READ

Brisbane, Australia
Indian bowler Jasprit Bumrah rewrote record books on Wednesday (Dec 18), adding another feather to his impressive hat. Playing on Day 5 of the Gabba Test of the Border Gawaskar Trophy, Bumrah broke Kapil Dev’s record for most wickets by an Indian on Australian soil. With two wickets in the second innings of Australia, Bumrah now has 52 scalps, making him the most successful Indian bowler Down Under.
<h2>Bumrah runs riot</h2>
Having started the day with the bat, Bumrah and Akash Deep added eight more runs before the latter was dismissed by Travis Head. With a lead of 185 runs, Australia came out to bat and they looked to make a good start to their innings. However, Bumrah was on the money for the visitors and scalped the wickets of Usman Khawaja (8) and Marnus Labuschagne (1) which saw him break Kapil’s record for most wickets.
Kapil had 51 wickets in 11 matches while Anil Kumble bagged 49 wickets in 10 matches during their tours Down Under.
<h2>Most Wickets on Australian Soil for India</h2>
Jasprit Bumrah – 53 Wickets
Kapil Dev – 51 Wickets
Anil Kumble – 49 Wickets
Ravichandran Ashwin - 40 Wickets
Bishan Singh Bedi - 35 Wickets
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<h2>Australia suffer batting meltdown</h2>
With a lead of 185 runs in the first innings, the early wickets saw Australia suffer a batting meltdown as they lost seven wickets. Before declaring on 89, Aussie batters were all over the place, as Bumrah ended with figures of 18/3, while Akash Deep (28/2) and Mohammed Siraj (36/2) were also amongst the wicket-takers.
Pat Cummins was the top scorer with 22 off 10 while Alex Carey (20) and Travis Head (17) were the only other batters to get into double figures.
At the time of writing, India were 8/0 as they were given a target of 275 runs to win in the two remaining sessions of the Gabba Test.

Playing on Day 5 of the Gabba Test, Jasprit Bumrah broke Kapil Dev’s record for most wickets by an Indian on Australian soil. With two wickets in the second innings of Australia, Bumrah now has 52 wickets, making him the most successful Indian bowler Down Under.



Brisbane, Australia Indian bowler Jasprit Bumrah rewrote record books on Wednesday (Dec 18), adding another feather to his impressive hat. Playing on Day 5 of the Gabba Test of the Border Gawaskar Trophy, Bumrah broke Kapil Dev’s record for most wickets by an Indian on Australian soil. With two wickets in the second innings of Australia, Bumrah now has 52 scalps, making him the most successful Indian bowler Down Under. Bumrah runs riot Having started the day with the bat, Bumrah and Akash Deep added eight more runs before the latter was dismissed by Travis Head. With a lead of 185 runs, Australia came out to bat and they looked to make a good start to their innings. However, Bumrah was on the money for the visitors and scalped the wickets of Usman Khawaja (8) and Marnus Labuschagne (1) which saw him break Kapil’s record for most wickets. Kapil had 51 wickets in 11 matches while Anil Kumble bagged 49 wickets in 10 matches during their tours Down Under. Most Wickets on Australian Soil for India Jasprit Bumrah – 53 Wickets Kapil Dev – 51 Wickets Anil Kumble – 49 Wickets Ravichandran Ashwin - 40 Wickets Bishan Singh Bedi - 35 Wickets ALSO READ | Super League promoters reveal approaching FIFA, UEFA for official recognition Australia suffer batting meltdown With a lead of 185 runs in the first innings, the early wickets saw Australia suffer a batting meltdown as they lost seven wickets. Before declaring on 89, Aussie batters were all over the place, as Bumrah ended with figures of 18/3, while Akash Deep (28/2) and Mohammed Siraj (36/2) were also amongst the wicket-takers. Pat Cummins was the top scorer with 22 off 10 while Alex Carey (20) and Travis Head (17) were the only other batters to get into double figures. At the time of writing, India were 8/0 as they were given a target of 275 runs to win in the two remaining sessions of the Gabba Test.

BGT 2024/25: Jasprit Bumrah breaks Kapil Dev's all-time record as Australia suffer batting meltdown on Day 5

Former South African speedster Morne Morkel has been officially appointed as the Indian team's bowling coach. He, thus, joins the Gautam Gambhir-led coaching staff before the home Tests versus Bangladesh.

Morne Morkel appointed Indian men's cricket team's bowling coach

India men’s cricket team coach Rahul Dravid was seen on a different field on Friday (April 26) as he was standing in a queue to cast his vote in the ongoing general elections in the nation.&nbsp;Dravid, a resident of India’s&nbsp;Bengaluru&nbsp;took the opportunity to send a message to all the&nbsp;citizens of the&nbsp;nation&nbsp;by casting his vote&nbsp;in the second phase of the Lok Sabha election.&nbsp;Alongside Dravid, Anil Kumble was also seen casting his vote in the state capital.&nbsp;

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Like a responsible citizen of India Rahul Dravid is real 💎 
See his Simplicity.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VotingDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VotingDay</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Election2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Election2024</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/2ndPhase?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#2ndPhase</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NehaSharma?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NehaSharma</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RahulDravid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RahulDravid</a><a href="https://t.co/IHe0gLufQ0">pic.twitter.com/IHe0gLufQ0</a>
— Mahi Yadav (@mahiniraj2025) <a href="https://twitter.com/mahiniraj2025/status/1783771037282586659?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Dravid votes in Bengaluru</h2>

Dravid was caught on the cameras on Friday morning, wearing a black T-shirt and shorts, and was not accompanied by anyone from the family.&nbsp;He followed other&nbsp;seniors&nbsp;in the queue to set an example off the field. His simple attire caught the eye of the internet&nbsp;with&nbsp; many applauding his simple look. Some on their X handle&nbsp;applauded Dravid’s simplicity as he did not use any VIP service to avoid long queues and instead cast vote as any other citizen of the nation.&nbsp;

Dravid&nbsp;was joined&nbsp;by former captain and teammate Anil Kumble in casting vote&nbsp;in the Karnataka capital. He&nbsp;too&nbsp;was&nbsp;seen taking a&nbsp;normal&nbsp;service than any VIP service to spread awareness of the importance of voting.&nbsp;

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With the Indian Premier League (IPL) season ongoing, Dravid has&nbsp;got couple&nbsp;of months to spend time with his family and work out a plan for the upcoming T20 World Cup in the West Indies and the USA.&nbsp;He will only resume his&nbsp;duties with the national side when India play&nbsp;in the T20 World Cup next month.&nbsp;Before that, he will have a massive round of meetings with the national team selectors&nbsp;to select the squad for the T20 World Cup.&nbsp;

Dravid will have a massive say along with captain Rohit Sharma to select the squad as&nbsp;the likes of&nbsp;Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant await to learn their future. It&nbsp;is expected&nbsp;that Kohli will travel to the USA and the West Indies while Pant’s availability remains in limbo.&nbsp;

India men’s cricket team coach Rahul Dravid was seen on a different field on Friday (April 26) as he was standing in a queue to cast his vote in the ongoing general elections in the nation.

India men’s cricket team coach Rahul Dravid was seen on a different field on Friday (April 26) as he was standing in a queue to cast his vote in the ongoing general elections in the nation. Dravid, a resident of India’s Bengaluru took the opportunity to send a message to all the citizens of the nation by casting his vote in the second phase of the Lok Sabha election. Alongside Dravid, Anil Kumble was also seen casting his vote in the state capital. Like a responsible citizen of India Rahul Dravid is real 💎 See his Simplicity.#VotingDay#Election2024#2ndPhase #NehaSharma#RahulDravidpic.twitter.com/IHe0gLufQ0 — Mahi Yadav (@mahiniraj2025) April 26, 2024 × Dravid votes in Bengaluru Dravid was caught on the cameras on Friday morning, wearing a black T-shirt and shorts, and was not accompanied by anyone from the family. He followed other seniors in the queue to set an example off the field. His simple attire caught the eye of the internet with many applauding his simple look. Some on their X handle applauded Dravid’s simplicity as he did not use any VIP service to avoid long queues and instead cast vote as any other citizen of the nation. Dravid was joined by former captain and teammate Anil Kumble in casting vote in the Karnataka capital. He too was seen taking a normal service than any VIP service to spread awareness of the importance of voting. ALSO READ | Formula One: Red Bull's legendary engineer Adrian Newey on cusp of joining Ferrari - Reports With the Indian Premier League (IPL) season ongoing, Dravid has got couple of months to spend time with his family and work out a plan for the upcoming T20 World Cup in the West Indies and the USA. He will only resume his duties with the national side when India play in the T20 World Cup next month. Before that, he will have a massive round of meetings with the national team selectors to select the squad for the T20 World Cup. Dravid will have a massive say along with captain Rohit Sharma to select the squad as the likes of Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant await to learn their future. It is expected that Kohli will travel to the USA and the West Indies while Pant’s availability remains in limbo.

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Indian cricket team coach Rahul Dravid waits in queue to cast vote - WATCH

IND vs SA 1st Test Day 2 Live Streaming: Rohit Sharma and Co will commence their two-match Test series against South Africa on Tuesday at the SuperSport Park Cricket Stadium in Centurion.

IND vs SA 1st Test Day 2 Live Streaming: Rohit Sharma and Co will commence their two-match Test series against South Africa on Tuesday at the SuperSport Park Cricket Stadium in Centurion. The Men in Blue have never won a Test series against the Proteas and will look forward to securing a win this time. India has made eight Test tours to South Africa. However, the closest they have come to winning was in 2010-11, but the three-match Test series tied 1-1. All eyes will be on India's pace attack, especially Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, who will aim to dominate the hosts. Mohammed Shami is no longer a part of the Test series due to an ankle injury. Either Mukesh Kumar or Prasidh Krishna will replace him. Although India won the ODI series against South Africa, they should step up their batting game. Meanwhile, Temba Bavuma-led South Africa will seek to maintain their home record against India. Dean Elgar, the former captain, will retire after the series. So, they will also look forward to a fitting farewell for him. It will be South Africa's first match in the present World Test Championship cycle. India has already won one Test series in the WTC cycle against West Indies. However, the rain threat looms large in Centurion. IND vs SA 1st Test Day 1 highlights IND - 208/8 (ov - 59) KL Rahul - 70*(105) M. Siraj - 0*(10) IND vs SA 1st Test Day 2 Match Live Streaming Details Here's everything you need to know about the live-streaming details of the India vs South Africa 1st Test match Day 2. When is the 1st Test match between India and South Africa? The India vs South Africa Test match will commence on December 26 and end on December 30. Where is the 1st Test match between India and South Africa? SuperSport Park Cricket Stadium in Centurion will host the India vs South Africa 1st Test match. What time will the 1st Test match Day 2 between India and South Africa? DATE The India vs South Africa 1st Test Day 2 will commence at 01:30 pm IST on December 27. Where can I watch the India vs South Africa 1st Test Day 2 live on TV? LIVE Broadcast Star Sports Network will broadcast the India vs South Africa 1st Test Day 2 live on television in India. How can I watch the live streaming of India vs South Africa 1st Test Day 2 live in India? LIVE Streaming Disney+Hotstar will broadcast the India vs South Africa 1st Test Day 2 live in India. (With inputs from agencies)

IND vs SA 1st Test Day 2 Live Streaming: How to watch the India vs South Africa 1st Test LIVE on mobile APP TV

CWC 2023 Final: From historic 1983 ODI WC triumph to 2013 CT win - Major titles won by Team India

India batter Shubman Gill attributed the cramps he suffered while batting against New Zealand in first semifinal of the ODI World Cup 2023 to dengue he suffered at the start of the campaign. Gill had missed India's first two games of the ongoing tournament because of dengue.&nbsp;

"It started with cramps and then I pulled my hamstring a little bit," Gill said at the post-match press conference. "It was quite humid and just the after-effects of dengue."

"I have honestly not really adjusted anything in terms of my batting but because I have lost a bit of muscle mass, I think the reserve that I used to have before the dengue has decreased a little bit […] You do get cramps when you're playing in humid conditions, but for me [it] happens after a long period of time, not so soon," he further explained. "But because I think I've lost a bit of muscle mass; the reserve has gone down a bit."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2023-former-australian-cricketer-slams-new-zealand-players-for-helping-virat-kohli-659225">Former Australian cricketer slams New Zealand players for helping Virat Kohli</a>

Gill, who was batting at 79 off 65, had to be retired hurt in the 23rd over before coming back to bat in the final over post the fall of fourth wicket. The batter remained unbeaten on 80 off 66 and said he would have scored a 100 had he not been hit with the cramps.

"If I didn't get cramp, maybe I would have scored a hundred," Gill said. "But I think the total we were trying to reach, irrespective of whether I scored a hundred or not, we reached there. We had a hope of scoring around 400, we had expectations that by the 25th-30th over we should have scored these many runs, and we did that, so it didn't matter whether I made a century or not."

India, nonetheless, finished on 397/4 in 50 overs, thanks to Virat Kohli's record-breaking 50th ODI ton and Shreyas Iyer's second hundred on the trot. While defending, Mohammed Shami took 7/57 as India won the match by 70 runs to book a place in the final.

India batter Shubman Gill attributed the cramps he suffered while batting against New Zealand in first semifinal of the ODI World Cup 2023 to dengue he suffered at the start of the campaign.

India batter Shubman Gill attributed the cramps he suffered while batting against New Zealand in first semifinal of the ODI World Cup 2023 to dengue he suffered at the start of the campaign. Gill had missed India's first two games of the ongoing tournament because of dengue. "It started with cramps and then I pulled my hamstring a little bit," Gill said at the post-match press conference. "It was quite humid and just the after-effects of dengue." "I have honestly not really adjusted anything in terms of my batting but because I have lost a bit of muscle mass, I think the reserve that I used to have before the dengue has decreased a little bit […] You do get cramps when you're playing in humid conditions, but for me [it] happens after a long period of time, not so soon," he further explained. "But because I think I've lost a bit of muscle mass; the reserve has gone down a bit." Also Read: Former Australian cricketer slams New Zealand players for helping Virat Kohli Gill, who was batting at 79 off 65, had to be retired hurt in the 23rd over before coming back to bat in the final over post the fall of fourth wicket. The batter remained unbeaten on 80 off 66 and said he would have scored a 100 had he not been hit with the cramps. "If I didn't get cramp, maybe I would have scored a hundred," Gill said. "But I think the total we were trying to reach, irrespective of whether I scored a hundred or not, we reached there. We had a hope of scoring around 400, we had expectations that by the 25th-30th over we should have scored these many runs, and we did that, so it didn't matter whether I made a century or not." India, nonetheless, finished on 397/4 in 50 overs, thanks to Virat Kohli's record-breaking 50th ODI ton and Shreyas Iyer's second hundred on the trot. While defending, Mohammed Shami took 7/57 as India won the match by 70 runs to book a place in the final.

ODI World Cup 2023: India batter Shubman Gill reveals REASON behind cramps during semi-final vs New Zealand

India continued their unbelievable run in the home ODI World Cup, with a massive 243-run win over second-positioned South Africa in match 37 on Sunday (Nov 5) at the iconic Eden Gardens in the eastern city of Kolkata. Batting first, India rode on a magnificent start provided by captain Rohit Sharma (40), Shreyas Iyer's 77 and birthday boy Virat Kohli's 101* to post 326 for 5. In reply, Indian pacers and Ravindra Jadeja's five-fer dismissed the Proteas for 83&nbsp;in 27.1 overs.

After the game, Rawalpindi Express Shoaib Akhtar lauded Team India, praising their pace trio of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj and Mohammed Shami. The former Pakistan pacer feels the Indian fast bowlers deserve more credit and 'it is time to celebrate them' for their wonderful job in the last few matches.

"Credit goes to the bowlers as they are performing brilliantly. It’s high time that you start regarding Indian pace bowlers as you do it for the batters basically. It’s time to celebrate fast bowling in Indian cricket because they have done a wonderful job in the last three to four matches and they are looking apart,” Akhtar said&nbsp;on his YouTube channel.

Bumrah (15 wickets), Siraj (10) and Shami (16) have assured India of terrific start with the ball in the last three-four games, setting the tone for other bowlers to cash in. As a result, India dismissed England for 129 and Sri Lanka for a paltry 55 before rattling the South Africans on Sunday evening.

During the SA run-chase, the Proteas were reduced to 35-3 due to the pace trio's relentless bowling before Jadeja took over.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/odi-world-cup-2023-sunil-gavaskar-in-awe-of-team-india-after-ruthless-win-against-south-africa-in-kolkata-655515">ODI World Cup 2023: Sunil Gavaskar in awe of Team India after ruthless win against South Africa in Kolkata</a>

Akhtar added, "I am disappointed with South Africa that they did not take charge and didn’t even try. They got bogged down in front of India. Bavuma, their skipper, did not even try to attack the pacers. He should have done something different. It was a walk in the park for India."

India are sitting pretty at the top with 16 points courtesy of&nbsp;eight back-to-back wins in the mega event and will now play the Netherlands in their last league game before the semi-finals. They meet the Dutch on Sunday (Nov 12) in Bengaluru.

India continued their unbelievable run in the home ODI World Cup, with a massive 243-run win over second-positioned South Africa in match 37 on Sunday (Nov 5) at the iconic Eden Gardens in the eastern city of Kolkata.

India continued their unbelievable run in the home ODI World Cup, with a massive 243-run win over second-positioned South Africa in match 37 on Sunday (Nov 5) at the iconic Eden Gardens in the eastern city of Kolkata. Batting first, India rode on a magnificent start provided by captain Rohit Sharma (40), Shreyas Iyer's 77 and birthday boy Virat Kohli's 101* to post 326 for 5. In reply, Indian pacers and Ravindra Jadeja's five-fer dismissed the Proteas for 83 in 27.1 overs. After the game, Rawalpindi Express Shoaib Akhtar lauded Team India, praising their pace trio of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj and Mohammed Shami. The former Pakistan pacer feels the Indian fast bowlers deserve more credit and 'it is time to celebrate them' for their wonderful job in the last few matches. "Credit goes to the bowlers as they are performing brilliantly. It’s high time that you start regarding Indian pace bowlers as you do it for the batters basically. It’s time to celebrate fast bowling in Indian cricket because they have done a wonderful job in the last three to four matches and they are looking apart,” Akhtar said on his YouTube channel. Bumrah (15 wickets), Siraj (10) and Shami (16) have assured India of terrific start with the ball in the last three-four games, setting the tone for other bowlers to cash in. As a result, India dismissed England for 129 and Sri Lanka for a paltry 55 before rattling the South Africans on Sunday evening. During the SA run-chase, the Proteas were reduced to 35-3 due to the pace trio's relentless bowling before Jadeja took over. Also read: ODI World Cup 2023: Sunil Gavaskar in awe of Team India after ruthless win against South Africa in Kolkata Akhtar added, "I am disappointed with South Africa that they did not take charge and didn’t even try. They got bogged down in front of India. Bavuma, their skipper, did not even try to attack the pacers. He should have done something different. It was a walk in the park for India." India are sitting pretty at the top with 16 points courtesy of eight back-to-back wins in the mega event and will now play the Netherlands in their last league game before the semi-finals. They meet the Dutch on Sunday (Nov 12) in Bengaluru.

ODI WC: High time we celebrate India's fast bowling, says Shoaib Akhtar after hosts' big win vs SA

Australia humbled the Netherlands by 309 runs in match 24 of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 on Wednesday (Oct 25) at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi. Opting to bat first, Pat Cummins &amp; Co. rode on David Warner's 104, Glenn Maxwell's 44-ball 106 (laced with 9 fours and 8 sixes at 240.91) and fifties from Steve Smith (71) and Marnus Labuschange (62) to post a mammoth 399 for 8. In reply, Scott Edwards &amp; Co. only managed 90 in 21 overs (thanks to Adam Zampa's four-fer) to lose by 309 runs, the biggest-ever World Cup loss by runs. Thus, Australia are now on a roll with three back-to-back wins after defeats in their opening two encounters.&nbsp;

Steve Smith attended the post-win media interaction and was asked about the CWC 2023 edition's current top two teams, i.e. India and South Africa. Rohit Sharma's India and Temba Bavuma-led Proteas have 10 and eight points, respectively, and look set to seal their place in the semi-finals sooner than later.&nbsp;Thus, the right-hander was all praise for India and the Proteas.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwc-23-thank-you-glenn-maxwell-aussie-stars-blitz-makes-for-a-memorable-trip-to-arun-jaitley-stadium-651204">CWC '23: Thank you, Glenn Maxwell! Aussie star's blitz makes for a memorable trip to Arun Jaitley Stadium</a>

While responding to WION's question on India and SA, Smith said, "I think both are playing really good cricket. SA play like we played today. They are trusting their top five batters to go out and build a platform before Klaasen and Miller to smack it at the backend. Obviously, they have played on very good batting surfaces as well, one here (in New Delhi) and two at the Wankhede. India are favourites in the tournament, they are playing very well and are playing at home. They are a very good side."

Meanwhile, Australia, now with a Net Run Rate of +1.142, are also catching up. They remain at the fourth spot, one below New Zealand.

At the post-match presentation, Aussie skipper Cummins said, "Really happy, complete game. To put 400 on board and then defend well, couldn't be happier. Crazy innings. I think we both contributed equally in that hundred partnership (chuckles). Fantastic innings, the cleanest hitting I've seen. We played the style we liked to. Pleased with Smithy getting runs. We were aiming for powerplay wickets, bowled quite well without a lot of luck. Zamps with another four-fer. They (New Zealand) are a really good side.. Big game in Dharamsala. It's the World Cup and we are in a good space, can't wait to get there. (Areas to improve) I don't think we have totally nailed the 50 overs with the bat yet."

Australia will now lock horns with Trans-Tasmanian rivals New Zealand in Dharamsala on Saturday (Oct 28).&nbsp;

Australia humbled the Netherlands by 309 runs in match 24 of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 on Wednesday (Oct 25) at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi. Opting to bat first, Pat Cummins & Co.

Australia humbled the Netherlands by 309 runs in match 24 of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 on Wednesday (Oct 25) at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi. Opting to bat first, Pat Cummins & Co. rode on David Warner's 104, Glenn Maxwell's 44-ball 106 (laced with 9 fours and 8 sixes at 240.91) and fifties from Steve Smith (71) and Marnus Labuschange (62) to post a mammoth 399 for 8. In reply, Scott Edwards & Co. only managed 90 in 21 overs (thanks to Adam Zampa's four-fer) to lose by 309 runs, the biggest-ever World Cup loss by runs. Thus, Australia are now on a roll with three back-to-back wins after defeats in their opening two encounters. Steve Smith attended the post-win media interaction and was asked about the CWC 2023 edition's current top two teams, i.e. India and South Africa. Rohit Sharma's India and Temba Bavuma-led Proteas have 10 and eight points, respectively, and look set to seal their place in the semi-finals sooner than later. Thus, the right-hander was all praise for India and the Proteas. Also read: CWC '23: Thank you, Glenn Maxwell! Aussie star's blitz makes for a memorable trip to Arun Jaitley Stadium While responding to WION's question on India and SA, Smith said, "I think both are playing really good cricket. SA play like we played today. They are trusting their top five batters to go out and build a platform before Klaasen and Miller to smack it at the backend. Obviously, they have played on very good batting surfaces as well, one here (in New Delhi) and two at the Wankhede. India are favourites in the tournament, they are playing very well and are playing at home. They are a very good side." Meanwhile, Australia, now with a Net Run Rate of +1.142, are also catching up. They remain at the fourth spot, one below New Zealand. At the post-match presentation, Aussie skipper Cummins said, "Really happy, complete game. To put 400 on board and then defend well, couldn't be happier. Crazy innings. I think we both contributed equally in that hundred partnership (chuckles). Fantastic innings, the cleanest hitting I've seen. We played the style we liked to. Pleased with Smithy getting runs. We were aiming for powerplay wickets, bowled quite well without a lot of luck. Zamps with another four-fer. They (New Zealand) are a really good side.. Big game in Dharamsala. It's the World Cup and we are in a good space, can't wait to get there. (Areas to improve) I don't think we have totally nailed the 50 overs with the bat yet." Australia will now lock horns with Trans-Tasmanian rivals New Zealand in Dharamsala on Saturday (Oct 28).

'SA are trusting their top five, India are...': Smith lauds in-form teams after Australia thrash Netherlands

Team India will tour the West Indies next month for a bilateral series. Rohit Sharma's men will start the Test series against West Indies from July 12, and the three-Test match series will be followed by three One Day Internationals and five-match T20 series. But it seems like the India tour of the West Indies might get rescheduled. The West Indies team has to join the ICC World Cup 2023 qualifiers from July 9. Due to this, the first India vs West Indies Test is on the verge of being rescheduled.

West Indies’ key players are currently busy with CWC Qualifiers

Indeed, Cricket West Indies has often used separate teams for white-ball and red-ball matches simultaneously, but there is some overlap on this occasion. Both formats are played by key players like Kyle Mayers, Jason Holder, Roston Chase, and Alzarri Joseph, who are currently in Zimbabwe for the ICC World Cup Qualifiers. In fact, all four of these players played a pivotal role in the West Indies' 39-run victory over the United States on June 19.

According to Inside Sport a CWI official has also quoted that The World Cup Qualifier final is meaningless to them. Their Test players will not participate in the game, but first, the team must make sure that they reach the finals.

<h2>Speculation over Indian squad for West Indies</h2>

There have also been several speculations over the Indian squad for the India tour of the West Indies after their defeat in the World Test Championship final. New players are being considered for the T20 series against West Indies and Hardik Pandya may lead the team. It is being speculated that Virat Kohli may be rested for the T20I series, as per Inside Sport. There were rumours earlier that Rohit Sharma would be rested for the series, but it seems unlikely. that India would go in for a captaincy change at the start of the new WTC cycle.

On the other hand, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, and Jasprit Bumrah are injured and will not be traveling to the Caribbean. In such a situation, Cheteshwar Pujara and Rahane may surely have a chance in the Test team. The selectors will meet next week to finalise the squad for the tour.&nbsp;

The India vs West Indies Test is set to begin from July 12. But, with West Indies’ key players being busy with the ICC World Cup 2023 Qualifiers, it seems like the fixture might get rescheduled.

Team India will tour the West Indies next month for a bilateral series. Rohit Sharma's men will start the Test series against West Indies from July 12, and the three-Test match series will be followed by three One Day Internationals and five-match T20 series. But it seems like the India tour of the West Indies might get rescheduled. The West Indies team has to join the ICC World Cup 2023 qualifiers from July 9. Due to this, the first India vs West Indies Test is on the verge of being rescheduled. West Indies’ key players are currently busy with CWC Qualifiers Indeed, Cricket West Indies has often used separate teams for white-ball and red-ball matches simultaneously, but there is some overlap on this occasion. Both formats are played by key players like Kyle Mayers, Jason Holder, Roston Chase, and Alzarri Joseph, who are currently in Zimbabwe for the ICC World Cup Qualifiers. In fact, all four of these players played a pivotal role in the West Indies' 39-run victory over the United States on June 19. According to Inside Sport a CWI official has also quoted that The World Cup Qualifier final is meaningless to them. Their Test players will not participate in the game, but first, the team must make sure that they reach the finals. Speculation over Indian squad for West Indies There have also been several speculations over the Indian squad for the India tour of the West Indies after their defeat in the World Test Championship final. New players are being considered for the T20 series against West Indies and Hardik Pandya may lead the team. It is being speculated that Virat Kohli may be rested for the T20I series, as per Inside Sport. There were rumours earlier that Rohit Sharma would be rested for the series, but it seems unlikely. that India would go in for a captaincy change at the start of the new WTC cycle. On the other hand, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, and Jasprit Bumrah are injured and will not be traveling to the Caribbean. In such a situation, Cheteshwar Pujara and Rahane may surely have a chance in the Test team. The selectors will meet next week to finalise the squad for the tour.

IND vs WI: First Test to be rescheduled due to ICC World Cup 2023 Qualifiers?

India's wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant is set to miss the 2023 ICC ODI World Cup as he still is away from full recovery following a horrible car accident in December 2022.

Pant will also be missing the World Test Championship (WTC) final to be played against Australia in England in June and so as Asia Cup. The developments are part of a report by the media outlet Cricbuzz which also says that Pant is still seven to eight months away from being able to start playing cricket again.

On a positive side, the reports also says that the left-handed batsman is recuperating faster than expected and will be able to walk without the crutches in span of a couple of weeks. Nonetheless, a return to cricket in January 2024 would mean an year of absence for Pant who had established himself as India's first choice wicketkeeper in Tests at least.

Given Pant's absence, KL Rahul could be India's designated keeper-batsman in ODIs for the World Cup and Asia Cup while players like Sanju Samson and Ishan Kishan could also find themselves in the mix.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-hes-the-extra-bowler-tom-moodys-big-remark-on-mis-arjun-tendulkar-586183">IPL 2023: 'He's the extra bowler': Tom Moody's BIG remark on MI's Arjun Tendulkar</a>

Coming back to Pant's case, the southpaw recently made an appearance during his IPL franchise team Delhi Capitals' match against Gujarat Titans but was seen walking with the help of crutches.

The cricketer had met an accident while traveling from Delhi to Dehradun by his car. He was able to come out of the car with the help of passers-by who spotted his wreck of a car which had started burning. Pant was first taken to a local hospital for trauma treatment before being shifted to Max Hospital in Dehradun.

BCCI then decided to fly Pant to a Mumbai hospital to undergo a knee surgery. Pant could need another surgery as per the report. India will definitely be missing Pant's expertise in Tests for sure where he has an envious record. In the 33 matches he has played so far, Pant has scored 2,271 runs at an average of 43.67 with five hundreds and 11 half-centuries.

His most notable innings was of 89 not out with which he led a second-string India side to victory over Australia at their fortress Gabba in the final match of the Border-Gavaskar series in 2021.&nbsp;

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India's wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant is set to miss the 2023 ICC ODI World Cup as he still is away from full recovery following a horrible car accident in December 2022.

India's wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant is set to miss the 2023 ICC ODI World Cup as he still is away from full recovery following a horrible car accident in December 2022. Pant will also be missing the World Test Championship (WTC) final to be played against Australia in England in June and so as Asia Cup. The developments are part of a report by the media outlet Cricbuzz which also says that Pant is still seven to eight months away from being able to start playing cricket again. On a positive side, the reports also says that the left-handed batsman is recuperating faster than expected and will be able to walk without the crutches in span of a couple of weeks. Nonetheless, a return to cricket in January 2024 would mean an year of absence for Pant who had established himself as India's first choice wicketkeeper in Tests at least. Given Pant's absence, KL Rahul could be India's designated keeper-batsman in ODIs for the World Cup and Asia Cup while players like Sanju Samson and Ishan Kishan could also find themselves in the mix. Also Read: IPL 2023: 'He's the extra bowler': Tom Moody's BIG remark on MI's Arjun Tendulkar Coming back to Pant's case, the southpaw recently made an appearance during his IPL franchise team Delhi Capitals' match against Gujarat Titans but was seen walking with the help of crutches. The cricketer had met an accident while traveling from Delhi to Dehradun by his car. He was able to come out of the car with the help of passers-by who spotted his wreck of a car which had started burning. Pant was first taken to a local hospital for trauma treatment before being shifted to Max Hospital in Dehradun. BCCI then decided to fly Pant to a Mumbai hospital to undergo a knee surgery. Pant could need another surgery as per the report. India will definitely be missing Pant's expertise in Tests for sure where he has an envious record. In the 33 matches he has played so far, Pant has scored 2,271 runs at an average of 43.67 with five hundreds and 11 half-centuries. His most notable innings was of 89 not out with which he led a second-string India side to victory over Australia at their fortress Gabba in the final match of the Border-Gavaskar series in 2021. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Rishabh Pant set to miss 2023 ICC ODI World Cup, claims report

The dark cloud on India’s potential venues in the Asia Cup 2023 can finally be lifted as the Asia Cricket Council (ACC) has proposed to allocate India to a neutral venue. The Board of Control for Cricket in India and Pakistan Board (PCB) are said to be moving swiftly towards brokering a resolution that could have both teams playing their tournament matches against each other outside Pakistan.

The Asia Cup 2023 is scheduled to take place in September and will see both India and Pakistan grouped together. The two arch-rivals are set to meet at least once while there could be potential two more meetings between the sides, including the final. India who last visited the terror-affected nation in 2008 are determined not to visit Pakistan despite them being the host.

<h3>Neutral venue on agenda</h3>

While India won’t be visiting Pakistan, they are likely to play their matches at a neutral venue including the headline clash against the hosts. The proposed neutral venues include Oman, UAE and Sri Lanka. According to an ESPNcricinfo report, England could also serve as an alternative if both BCCI and PCB agree to take the Asia Cup outside Asia.

The Asia Cup 2023 will be played in a 50-over format with the tournament lasting for 13 days. India and Pakistan are grouped together while defending champions Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Afghanistan are paired in the other group.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-ipl-teammates-virat-kohli-and-marcus-stoinis-collide-during-india-australia-chennai-odi-watch-574907">Former IPL teammates Virat Kohli and Marcus Stoinis collide during India-Australia Chennai ODI - WATCH</a>

<h3>Committee to decide Asia Cup schedule</h3>

As it stands, a small working group has been formed with the brief of creating a schedule and travel plan agreeable to all participating countries as well as the broadcaster before a final call is taken. The weather is likely to play a key role in determining the second venue outside of Pakistan, though there will be keenness among the Asian venues to host high-profile India-Pakistan games.

The Asia Cup has recently developed a tradition to get hosted in a neutral venue with UAE being the likely option. Last year Sri Lanka were unable to host the Asia Cup due to political and financial crisis while India also had to relinquish hosting the tournament in 2018 with the political tension between them and Pakistan. This year could be no different as India try to conquer the continental crown while a bigger prize in the form of the ODI World Cup also awaits in October.

&nbsp;

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The dark cloud on India’s potential venues in the Asia Cup 2023 can finally be lifted as the Asia Cricket Council (ACC) has proposed to allocate India to a neutral venue.

The dark cloud on India’s potential venues in the Asia Cup 2023 can finally be lifted as the Asia Cricket Council (ACC) has proposed to allocate India to a neutral venue. The Board of Control for Cricket in India and Pakistan Board (PCB) are said to be moving swiftly towards brokering a resolution that could have both teams playing their tournament matches against each other outside Pakistan. The Asia Cup 2023 is scheduled to take place in September and will see both India and Pakistan grouped together. The two arch-rivals are set to meet at least once while there could be potential two more meetings between the sides, including the final. India who last visited the terror-affected nation in 2008 are determined not to visit Pakistan despite them being the host. Neutral venue on agenda While India won’t be visiting Pakistan, they are likely to play their matches at a neutral venue including the headline clash against the hosts. The proposed neutral venues include Oman, UAE and Sri Lanka. According to an ESPNcricinfo report, England could also serve as an alternative if both BCCI and PCB agree to take the Asia Cup outside Asia. The Asia Cup 2023 will be played in a 50-over format with the tournament lasting for 13 days. India and Pakistan are grouped together while defending champions Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Afghanistan are paired in the other group. ALSO READ | Former IPL teammates Virat Kohli and Marcus Stoinis collide during India-Australia Chennai ODI - WATCH Committee to decide Asia Cup schedule As it stands, a small working group has been formed with the brief of creating a schedule and travel plan agreeable to all participating countries as well as the broadcaster before a final call is taken. The weather is likely to play a key role in determining the second venue outside of Pakistan, though there will be keenness among the Asian venues to host high-profile India-Pakistan games. The Asia Cup has recently developed a tradition to get hosted in a neutral venue with UAE being the likely option. Last year Sri Lanka were unable to host the Asia Cup due to political and financial crisis while India also had to relinquish hosting the tournament in 2018 with the political tension between them and Pakistan. This year could be no different as India try to conquer the continental crown while a bigger prize in the form of the ODI World Cup also awaits in October. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Asia Cup 2023: Premier tournament to stay in Pakistan, but India likely to play at THIS neutral venue

Ace Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah was not picked for the final two Tests against Australia and for the ODI series that follows as he remains on the sidelines following the back injury he suffered last year in September. However, as first reported by Cricbuzz, Bumrah is on the road to recovery and is targeting IPL 2023 for his much-awaited return. The fast bowler, who was not named in India’s squad for the first two Tests against Australia earlier as the coach and the captain didn’t want to risk him, is yet to receive clearance from the National Cricket Academy (NCA) where he currently undergoing&nbsp;rehab.

As per the report, Bumrah did play some practice matches in NCA in the past ten days but is yet to receive an all-clear certificate from the top brass so as to be considered for selection.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-chennai-super-kings-suffer-huge-blow-as-pacer-kyle-jamieson-is-set-to-be-out-for-months-563782">IPL 2023: Chennai Super Kings suffer huge blow as star pacer set to be out for complete season due to injury</a>

As 2023&nbsp;happens to be an important year for Indian cricket in terms of ICC tournaments&nbsp;with the 2023 World Test Championship and the Men’s World Cup scheduled for the latter half of the year, Bumrah’s fitness will play a key role in deciding how India will fare in those mega events.

In his absence in last year’s Asia Cup and the T20 World Cup in Australia, India failed to lift those trophies. As a result, as announced by the board earlier, Bumrah’s workload in IPL alongside the workload management of several others, who remain in contention for selection for the World Cup, will be taken care of by the NCA in coordination with their IPL franchises during the upcoming season that begins on March 31st.

Even in the past, there have been several instances where the overseas boards have issued conditional NOCs asking the franchises not to make a bowler bowl more than 24 balls in the nets or not to make him play a certain number of matches on a stretch just to avoid an injury. Other than this, the foreign boards also request the respective franchise to look after the concerned player’s fitness parameters regularly. For Bumrah, and even for other injury-prone players, a similar method could be deployed during IPL 2023.

Meanwhile, Bumrah’s Mumbai Indians will face the old nemesis Royal Challengers Bangalore in their opening match of IPL 2023 on April 2nd.

Ace Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah was not picked for the final two Tests against Australia and for the ODI series that follows as he remains on the sidelines following the back injury he suffered last year in September.

Ace Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah was not picked for the final two Tests against Australia and for the ODI series that follows as he remains on the sidelines following the back injury he suffered last year in September. However, as first reported by Cricbuzz, Bumrah is on the road to recovery and is targeting IPL 2023 for his much-awaited return. The fast bowler, who was not named in India’s squad for the first two Tests against Australia earlier as the coach and the captain didn’t want to risk him, is yet to receive clearance from the National Cricket Academy (NCA) where he currently undergoing rehab. As per the report, Bumrah did play some practice matches in NCA in the past ten days but is yet to receive an all-clear certificate from the top brass so as to be considered for selection. ALSO READ: IPL 2023: Chennai Super Kings suffer huge blow as star pacer set to be out for complete season due to injury As 2023 happens to be an important year for Indian cricket in terms of ICC tournaments with the 2023 World Test Championship and the Men’s World Cup scheduled for the latter half of the year, Bumrah’s fitness will play a key role in deciding how India will fare in those mega events. In his absence in last year’s Asia Cup and the T20 World Cup in Australia, India failed to lift those trophies. As a result, as announced by the board earlier, Bumrah’s workload in IPL alongside the workload management of several others, who remain in contention for selection for the World Cup, will be taken care of by the NCA in coordination with their IPL franchises during the upcoming season that begins on March 31st. Even in the past, there have been several instances where the overseas boards have issued conditional NOCs asking the franchises not to make a bowler bowl more than 24 balls in the nets or not to make him play a certain number of matches on a stretch just to avoid an injury. Other than this, the foreign boards also request the respective franchise to look after the concerned player’s fitness parameters regularly. For Bumrah, and even for other injury-prone players, a similar method could be deployed during IPL 2023. Meanwhile, Bumrah’s Mumbai Indians will face the old nemesis Royal Challengers Bangalore in their opening match of IPL 2023 on April 2nd.

Injured Jasprit Bumrah targets IPL 2023 for return amid pending clearance from NCA