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

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

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

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

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

East Zone captain Ishan Kishan clobbered his highest first-class score of 270 against South Zone in the ongoing Duleep Trophy final in Chennai. Riding on his brilliant double hundred and a gritty century from Kumar Kushagra, East Zone posted their first-innings total in excess of 700 at stumps on day 2, marking only the third time in the tournament’s final history that a team has crossed the 700-run milestone. &nbsp;Resuming day two on 385 for four, Kishan (111*) and Kushagra (63*) began piling up runs and misery on South Zone bowlers. Mohammed Siraj, who went wicketless on day 1, tried hard – both with his pace and line and verbal volleys to unsettle the pair, but failed. MD Nidheesh too bowled his heart out with the new ball in his quest to break this partnership but tasted no success, as the two batters inched closer to their respective milestones. The two spinners, Tripurana Vijay and Shreyas Gopal, also kept persisting with defensive lines on either side of the drinks break but failed to provide any respite.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/where-to-watch-india-vs-japan-historic-t20i-live-streaming-channel-details-1788703019306">Where to watch India vs Japan historic T20I: Channel and live streaming details</a> &nbsp;The right-handed batter Kushagra completed his sixth first-class hundred soon after but lost his wicket before lunch on day two.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Watch 🎥 Kumar Kushagra lights up Chennai with a brilliant 101(132) 💪 Scorecard ▶️ <a href="https://t.co/BhTkGWeeoD">https://t.co/BhTkGWeeoD</a><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/DuleepTrophy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DuleepTrophy</a> | <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/EZvSZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EZvSZ</a> <a href="https://t.co/zfqrn3Uh4C">pic.twitter.com/zfqrn3Uh4C</a>&mdash; BCCI Domestic (@BCCIdomestic) <a href="https://x.com/BCCIdomestic/status/2096903068399124779?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 7, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Kishan, on the other hand, took advantage of South Zone’s tired bowling attack and kept manoeuvring gaps for boundaries for fun, closing in on his double hundred.&nbsp;Nothing worked for Tilak Varma’s South Zone, which had also tried part-timers in Devdutt Padikkal, as Kishan completed his brilliant 200 in 270 balls.<h3>WATCH the moment Kishan scored 200 vs South Zone -</h3>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">That moment when Ishan Kishan reached 2️⃣5️⃣0️⃣ 👏👏 Scorecard ▶️ <a href="https://t.co/KQf5Km69nk">https://t.co/KQf5Km69nk</a><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/DuleepTrophy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DuleepTrophy</a> | <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/SZvEZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SZvEZ</a> <a href="https://t.co/6YJYiwNtjV">pic.twitter.com/6YJYiwNtjV</a>&mdash; BCCI Domestic (@BCCIdomestic) <a href="https://x.com/BCCIdomestic/status/2096884661041639535?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 7, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Just when he crossed his 200-mark, Kishan upped the ante and began scoring quickly, with South Zone anticipating a declaration. Much to their disappointment, Kishan did not declare and kept cruising even after crossing 250. Although fatigue caught up with him as he walked out retired hurt, Kishan returned following Mohammed Shami’s dismissal on 28 to rack up more runs.&nbsp; &nbsp;He, however, failed to smash a triple hundred in this title match, after finding a fielder near long-on to depart on 270.&nbsp; &nbsp;South Zone could finally wrap up East Zone's innings on 708, with a mountain to climb should they seek a shocking turnaround from here in the Duleep Trophy final.

East Zone captain Ishan Kishan smashed a record-breaking 270 to propel his side to a colossal 708 against South Zone on Day 2 of the Duleep Trophy final in Chennai. Read the day report. 

East Zone captain Ishan Kishan clobbered his highest first-class score of 270 against South Zone in the ongoing Duleep Trophy final in Chennai. Riding on his brilliant double hundred and a gritty century from Kumar Kushagra, East Zone posted their first-innings total in excess of 700 at stumps on day 2, marking only the third time in the tournament’s final history that a team has crossed the 700-run milestone. Resuming day two on 385 for four, Kishan (111*) and Kushagra (63*) began piling up runs and misery on South Zone bowlers. Mohammed Siraj, who went wicketless on day 1, tried hard – both with his pace and line and verbal volleys to unsettle the pair, but failed. MD Nidheesh too bowled his heart out with the new ball in his quest to break this partnership but tasted no success, as the two batters inched closer to their respective milestones. The two spinners, Tripurana Vijay and Shreyas Gopal, also kept persisting with defensive lines on either side of the drinks break but failed to provide any respite. Also read| Where to watch India vs Japan historic T20I: Channel and live streaming details The right-handed batter Kushagra completed his sixth first-class hundred soon after but lost his wicket before lunch on day two.

East Zone captain Ishan Kishan smashed a record-breaking 270 to propel his side to a colossal 708 against South Zone on Day 2 of the Duleep Trophy final in Chennai. Read the day report.&nbsp;

Ishan Kishan smashes 270 as East Zone rack up 708 in Duleep Trophy Final

India’s World Cup hero in the 2023 edition, fast bowler Mohammed Shami, hasn’t been in the selectors’ scheme of things since March 2025, but his East Zone captain Ishan Kishan feels the pacer has hunger in him for an India comeback. Shami last featured for India during the triumphant 2025 Champions Trophy in Dubai, and hasn’t been picked for any format since. Ahead of the Duleep Trophy final, which also happens to be Shami’s 100th first-class match, Kishan praises the Indian veteran. &nbsp;Kishan -- a mainstay in India’s T20I side -- said that for Shami, age is just a number. Showing confidence in Shami’s presence in the playing XI, Kishan said he brings a lot of experience to the table. &nbsp;"I feel age is just a number," Kishan said ahead of the Duleep Trophy in Chennai.&nbsp; &nbsp;"If he is working hard, it doesn't matter - he has been doing so well. Having him in our team, it gives us a bit of more confidence when you have such bowlers in your team who can get you wickets and especially looking at Shami bhai this season, his intensity, his energy has been very different,” he said.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ishan-kishan-tilak-varma-duleep-trophy-final-afg-t20is-format-switch-1788614605122">'Switching formats is tough but no excuses': Kishan, Tilak ready for AFG T20Is days after Duleep Trophy final</a> &nbsp;Kishan said Shami has that hunger in him, and is motivated to press his case for an India return, considering India would need experience in the pace attack at the ODI World Cup.&nbsp; &nbsp;"It has been three years since that [2023] World Cup [when he was in excellent form]; it is hard when you are not regularly playing for the Indian team and to again have that same kind of motivation for your domestic games; it is tough. But I feel I see that hunger in him because who better than me can judge about hunger right now?” he said.&nbsp;"I think he has that hunger and that motivation right now. He wants to do that comeback; he wants to be part of the Indian squad again, and which you can see in him when he is trying to help me, also when I'm leading the side... he is trying to come to me, give me options of what you can do right now,” he concluded. &nbsp;Kishan will lead East Zone against Tilak Varma’s South Zone in the Duleep Trophy final in Chennai.&nbsp;

"Who better than me to judge hunger?" Ishan Kishan backs veteran pacer Mohammed Shami for an India comeback ahead of his milestone 100th first-class match in the Duleep Trophy final.

India’s World Cup hero in the 2023 edition, fast bowler Mohammed Shami, hasn’t been in the selectors’ scheme of things since March 2025, but his East Zone captain Ishan Kishan feels the pacer has hunger in him for an India comeback. Shami last featured for India during the triumphant 2025 Champions Trophy in Dubai, and hasn’t been picked for any format since. Ahead of the Duleep Trophy final, which also happens to be Shami’s 100th first-class match, Kishan praises the Indian veteran. Kishan -- a mainstay in India’s T20I side -- said that for Shami, age is just a number. Showing confidence in Shami’s presence in the playing XI, Kishan said he brings a lot of experience to the table. "I feel age is just a number," Kishan said ahead of the Duleep Trophy in Chennai. "If he is working hard, it doesn't matter - he has been doing so well. Having him in our team, it gives us a bit of more confidence when you have such bowlers in your team who can get you wickets and especially looking at Shami bhai this season, his intensity, his energy has been very different,” he said. Also read| 'Switching formats is tough but no excuses': Kishan, Tilak ready for AFG T20Is days after Duleep Trophy final Kishan said Shami has that hunger in him, and is motivated to press his case for an India return, considering India would need experience in the pace attack at the ODI World Cup. "It has been three years since that [2023] World Cup [when he was in excellent form]; it is hard when you are not regularly playing for the Indian team and to again have that same kind of motivation for your domestic games; it is tough. But I feel I see that hunger in him because who better than me can judge about hunger right now?” he said. "I think he has that hunger and that motivation right now. He wants to do that comeback; he wants to be part of the Indian squad again, and which you can see in him when he is trying to help me, also when I'm leading the side... he is trying to come to me, give me options of what you can do right now,” he concluded. Kishan will lead East Zone against Tilak Varma’s South Zone in the Duleep Trophy final in Chennai.

"Who better than me to judge hunger?" Ishan Kishan backs veteran pacer Mohammed Shami for an India comeback ahead of his milestone 100th first-class match in the Duleep Trophy final.

'He has that hunger for India comeback': Ishan Kishan hails Mohammed Shami ahead of Duleep Trophy final

Ishan Kishan and Tilak Varma -- India’s T20I mainstays -- will be up against each other as captains of East and South Zone, respectively, in the Duleep Trophy final starting Sunday (Sep 6) at Chepauk in Chennai. While they have plenty riding on their shoulders ahead of the marquee clash, switching formats and style of play remains their primary concern. As India will face Afghanistan across three T20Is starting Sep 13 in Delhi, three days after the last day of the Duleep Trophy final, the two addressed the challenges of switching their game quickly. &nbsp;Apart from Kishan and Tilak, batting prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who opens for East Zone, will also be part of the T20I squad for the Afghanistan series.&nbsp; &nbsp;Kishan said it’s never easy to switch formats this quickly. The East Zone captain, who plays in the middle order in domestic cricket but opens for India in T20Is, explained its challenges.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asian-games-2026-ioa-bcci-cricket-logistics-1788598143640">Asian Games 2026: IOA tells BCCI 'no special treatment' for cricket, asks board to handle own logistics</a>&nbsp;"I don't know. How do I tell you? It's just about knowing what format you are playing," Kishan said on the eve of the Duleep final at Chepauk. "Sometimes it gets difficult when you are playing a Test match and suddenly you have to go and start hitting from ball one and suddenly you have to go back to your domestic team and you have to play a whole different role. But at the same time, I feel, as professionals it's our job to adapt, we cannot be coming up with excuses after knowing this is like your routine for next few days. &nbsp;"So, it is better not to be in a situation where we have to make excuses, but at the same time be aware and be just mindful of what is going to happen, and I will be playing T20 after this. So, my job will be different [in T20Is], but still I feel we are getting two days of practice before the Afghanistan first game, so it will be more than enough, I feel,” Kishan said ahead of the Duleep Trophy final in Chennai.&nbsp; &nbsp;On the other hand, Tilak, who has frequently switched formats in recent months, also expressed similar concerns, adding that though all players are quick to adapt to the conditions, going from five-day cricket to a 20-over game isn’t the easiest option. &nbsp;"We have played enough domestic games; we have played in every condition, so we can adjust to the conditions," Tilak Varma said.&nbsp; &nbsp;"But it will be slightly challenging playing five days here and again joining the [T20I] team. But from here we are going to Delhi; there will be two days of break, so we can practice there and we have enough time as well, but it will be slightly challenging. We know how to change our mindsets and maintain our body with good fluids and everything, so we have played back-to-back games before in the domestic as well and international, so we are quite used to it,” he added. &nbsp;Meanwhile, the 2026 Duleep Trophy final will see two top and star-studded teams facing off for the coveted prize, with several A-listers ready to grace the occasion.&nbsp;

Ishan Kishan and Tilak Varma react to leading East Zone and South Zone in the Duleep Trophy final just days before India's T20I series against Afghanistan.

Ishan Kishan and Tilak Varma -- India’s T20I mainstays -- will be up against each other as captains of East and South Zone, respectively, in the Duleep Trophy final starting Sunday (Sep 6) at Chepauk in Chennai. While they have plenty riding on their shoulders ahead of the marquee clash, switching formats and style of play remains their primary concern. As India will face Afghanistan across three T20Is starting Sep 13 in Delhi, three days after the last day of the Duleep Trophy final, the two addressed the challenges of switching their game quickly. Apart from Kishan and Tilak, batting prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who opens for East Zone, will also be part of the T20I squad for the Afghanistan series. Kishan said it’s never easy to switch formats this quickly. The East Zone captain, who plays in the middle order in domestic cricket but opens for India in T20Is, explained its challenges. Also read| Asian Games 2026: IOA tells BCCI 'no special treatment' for cricket, asks board to handle own logistics "I don't know. How do I tell you? It's just about knowing what format you are playing," Kishan said on the eve of the Duleep final at Chepauk. "Sometimes it gets difficult when you are playing a Test match and suddenly you have to go and start hitting from ball one and suddenly you have to go back to your domestic team and you have to play a whole different role. But at the same time, I feel, as professionals it's our job to adapt, we cannot be coming up with excuses after knowing this is like your routine for next few days. "So, it is better not to be in a situation where we have to make excuses, but at the same time be aware and be just mindful of what is going to happen, and I will be playing T20 after this. So, my job will be different [in T20Is], but still I feel we are getting two days of practice before the Afghanistan first game, so it will be more than enough, I feel,” Kishan said ahead of the Duleep Trophy final in Chennai. On the other hand, Tilak, who has frequently switched formats in recent months, also expressed similar concerns, adding that though all players are quick to adapt to the conditions, going from five-day cricket to a 20-over game isn’t the easiest option. "We have played enough domestic games; we have played in every condition, so we can adjust to the conditions," Tilak Varma said. "But it will be slightly challenging playing five days here and again joining the [T20I] team. But from here we are going to Delhi; there will be two days of break, so we can practice there and we have enough time as well, but it will be slightly challenging. We know how to change our mindsets and maintain our body with good fluids and everything, so we have played back-to-back games before in the domestic as well and international, so we are quite used to it,” he added. Meanwhile, the 2026 Duleep Trophy final will see two top and star-studded teams facing off for the coveted prize, with several A-listers ready to grace the occasion.

Ishan Kishan and Tilak Varma react to leading East Zone and South Zone in the Duleep Trophy final just days before India's T20I series against Afghanistan.

'Switching formats is tough but no excuses': Kishan, Tilak ready for AFG T20Is days after Duleep Trophy final

India's teenage batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi made a massive jump in the latest ICC Men's T20I Batting Rankings after his brilliant performances against Zimbabwe. The 15-year-old climbed 230 places to a career-best 48th spot after finishing as the leading run-scorer in the three-match T20I series in Harare. Sooryavanshi scored 151 runs at an average of 50.33, helping India complete a 3-0 series sweep and also earned his first Player of the Series award in international cricket.&nbsp;Sooryavanshi made an immediate impact by scoring a 19-ball fifty in the opening T20I, followed it up with his highest international score of 81 off 49 balls in the final match.&nbsp;&nbsp;With those innings, he became the first player in men’s T20I history to score more than one half-century before the age of 16. He now has 536 rating points in the ICC rankings.&nbsp;&nbsp;India opener Ishan Kishan continues to lead the T20I batting rankings. He reached a career-best rating of 916 points after scoring 81 runs in the second T20I against Zimbabwe, the third-highest rating ever achieved by a T20I batter.&nbsp;Although he dropped slightly to 910 points after the series, he remains comfortably ahead of second-placed Sahibzada Farhan, who has 848 points.&nbsp;Among other Indian batters, Tilak Varma climbed two places to sixth, while Shreyas Iyer moved up seven spots to 24th.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mixed-feelings-about-this-one-manu-bhaker-reacts-after-winning-bronze-at-shooting-world-cup-1785309305344">'Mixed feelings': Manu Bhaker reacts after winning bronze at Shooting World Cup</a>&nbsp;Spinner Ravi Bishnoi made a big jump in the bowling rankings, rising 31 places to 41st after taking three wickets against Zimbabwe.&nbsp;Zimbabwe players also improved their rankings, as Ryan Burl moved up six places to joint 85th among batters, while fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani climbed 10 spots to 26th in the bowling rankings.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-2025-27-points-table-pakistan-slip-to-bottom-after-west-indies-defeat-where-does-india-stand-1785300993806">WTC 25-27 Points Table: PAK slip to bottom after WI loss, where does IND stand?</a><h2>Gill returns to ODI No. 1</h2>In the ODI rankings, Shubman Gill has regained the No. 1 batting position. He returned to the top after New Zealand batter Daryl Mitchell missed the recent ODI series against the West Indies.&nbsp;India now have three batters in the top four of the ODI rankings, with Kohli at No. 2 and Rohit Sharma at No. 4.<h2>Bumrah stays on top in Tests</h2>India pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah continues to hold the No. 1 spot in the ICC Test bowling rankings, maintaining his position as the world’s highest-ranked Test bowler.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi jumped 230 places to reach a career-best 48th position in the latest ICC Men's T20I Batting Rankings after his strong performances in India's 3-0 series win over Zimbabwe.

India's teenage batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi made a massive jump in the latest ICC Men's T20I Batting Rankings after his brilliant performances against Zimbabwe. The 15-year-old climbed 230 places to a career-best 48th spot after finishing as the leading run-scorer in the three-match T20I series in Harare. Sooryavanshi scored 151 runs at an average of 50.33, helping India complete a 3-0 series sweep and also earned his first Player of the Series award in international cricket. Sooryavanshi made an immediate impact by scoring a 19-ball fifty in the opening T20I, followed it up with his highest international score of 81 off 49 balls in the final match. With those innings, he became the first player in men’s T20I history to score more than one half-century before the age of 16. He now has 536 rating points in the ICC rankings. India opener Ishan Kishan continues to lead the T20I batting rankings. He reached a career-best rating of 916 points after scoring 81 runs in the second T20I against Zimbabwe, the third-highest rating ever achieved by a T20I batter. Although he dropped slightly to 910 points after the series, he remains comfortably ahead of second-placed Sahibzada Farhan, who has 848 points. Among other Indian batters, Tilak Varma climbed two places to sixth, while Shreyas Iyer moved up seven spots to 24th. Also Read - 'Mixed feelings': Manu Bhaker reacts after winning bronze at Shooting World Cup Spinner Ravi Bishnoi made a big jump in the bowling rankings, rising 31 places to 41st after taking three wickets against Zimbabwe. Zimbabwe players also improved their rankings, as Ryan Burl moved up six places to joint 85th among batters, while fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani climbed 10 spots to 26th in the bowling rankings. Also Read - WTC 25-27 Points Table: PAK slip to bottom after WI loss, where does IND stand? Gill returns to ODI No. 1 In the ODI rankings, Shubman Gill has regained the No. 1 batting position. He returned to the top after New Zealand batter Daryl Mitchell missed the recent ODI series against the West Indies. India now have three batters in the top four of the ODI rankings, with Kohli at No. 2 and Rohit Sharma at No. 4. Bumrah stays on top in Tests India pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah continues to hold the No. 1 spot in the ICC Test bowling rankings, maintaining his position as the world’s highest-ranked Test bowler.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi jumped 230 places to reach a career-best 48th position in the latest ICC Men's T20I Batting Rankings after his strong performances in India's 3-0 series win over Zimbabwe.

ICC T20I Rankings: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi jumps 230 places, Ishan Kishan stays No. 1

From Suryakumar Yadav to Abhishek Sharma, here's a look at the top five Indian batters with most T20I runs in a calendar year. This list also includes Ishan Kishan, Virat Kohli and Shikhar Dhawan

From Suryakumar Yadav to Abhishek Sharma, here's a look at the top five Indian batters with most T20I runs in a calendar year. This list also includes Ishan Kishan, Virat Kohli and Shikhar Dhawan

Meet top 5 Indian batters with most T20I runs in a calendar year

India produced a dominant all-round performance to thrash Zimbabwe by 90 runs in the second T20I on Saturday (July 25), sealing the three-match series with an unbeatable 2-0 lead. After posting a formidable 219, India bundled out Zimbabwe for just 129 in 17.5 overs. The hosts made a brisk start thanks to Brian Bennett's 32 off 19 balls, which included three fours and three sixes, but suffered a dramatic collapse as wickets fell in quick succession. The third and final T20I of the series will be played on Sunday (July 26).&nbsp;Earlier in the innings, India recovered from an early wobble to post 219/5 against Zimbabwe in the second T20I, thanks to a scintillating 81 from Ishan Kishan and an unbeaten 60 from Tilak Varma. Asked to bat first, India suffered an early setback when Abhishek Sharma was dismissed for just 8 by Blessing Muzarabani in the second over. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi then lit up the powerplay with an entertaining 20 off just nine balls, hammering three fours and a six before Richard Ngarava removed him.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/history-beckons-anahat-singh-becomes-first-indian-in-21-years-to-reach-world-junior-squash-championships-final-1784984896498">History beckons! Anahat Singh becomes first Indian in 21 years to reach World Junior Squash Championships final</a>&nbsp;With India at 28/2, Ishan Kishan and captain Shreyas Iyer steadied the innings, guiding the visitors to 51/2 at the end of the powerplay. The pair kept the scoreboard ticking before Brian Bennett broke the partnership by dismissing Iyer for a 20-ball 25, leaving India at 95/3 after 10 overs. Kishan continued to anchor the innings while Tilak Varma shifted gears at the other end. The left-hander reached his 12th T20 half-century in just 31 deliveries, setting the stage for a late onslaught.&nbsp;The turning point came in the 15th over when Kishan and Tilak plundered 21 runs off Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza, taking the attack to the hosts. Tilak then raced to his ninth T20 fifty in only 23 balls, ensuring India maintained the momentum heading into the death overs. Newman Nyamhuri eventually ended Kishan's brilliant knock on the first ball of the 18th over. The wicketkeeper-batter departed after scoring 81 from 44 deliveries, an innings laced with nine fours and two sixes.&nbsp;Tilak, however, carried the charge until the end, finishing unbeaten on 60 off just 29 balls with five fours and three sixes. Rinku Singh chipped in with a quick 12 before Brad Evans dismissed him in the final over, as India concluded their innings on an imposing 219/5. For Zimbabwe, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava, Brian Bennett, Newman Nyamhuri and Brad Evans claimed one wicket each.

India beat Zimbabwe by 90 runs in the second T20I to seal the three-match series 2-0. Brian Bennett's quickfire start wasn't enough as India dominated with bat and ball

India produced a dominant all-round performance to thrash Zimbabwe by 90 runs in the second T20I on Saturday (July 25), sealing the three-match series with an unbeatable 2-0 lead. After posting a formidable 219, India bundled out Zimbabwe for just 129 in 17.5 overs. The hosts made a brisk start thanks to Brian Bennett's 32 off 19 balls, which included three fours and three sixes, but suffered a dramatic collapse as wickets fell in quick succession. The third and final T20I of the series will be played on Sunday (July 26). Earlier in the innings, India recovered from an early wobble to post 219/5 against Zimbabwe in the second T20I, thanks to a scintillating 81 from Ishan Kishan and an unbeaten 60 from Tilak Varma. Asked to bat first, India suffered an early setback when Abhishek Sharma was dismissed for just 8 by Blessing Muzarabani in the second over. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi then lit up the powerplay with an entertaining 20 off just nine balls, hammering three fours and a six before Richard Ngarava removed him. Also Read: History beckons! Anahat Singh becomes first Indian in 21 years to reach World Junior Squash Championships final With India at 28/2, Ishan Kishan and captain Shreyas Iyer steadied the innings, guiding the visitors to 51/2 at the end of the powerplay. The pair kept the scoreboard ticking before Brian Bennett broke the partnership by dismissing Iyer for a 20-ball 25, leaving India at 95/3 after 10 overs. Kishan continued to anchor the innings while Tilak Varma shifted gears at the other end. The left-hander reached his 12th T20 half-century in just 31 deliveries, setting the stage for a late onslaught. The turning point came in the 15th over when Kishan and Tilak plundered 21 runs off Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza, taking the attack to the hosts. Tilak then raced to his ninth T20 fifty in only 23 balls, ensuring India maintained the momentum heading into the death overs. Newman Nyamhuri eventually ended Kishan's brilliant knock on the first ball of the 18th over. The wicketkeeper-batter departed after scoring 81 from 44 deliveries, an innings laced with nine fours and two sixes. Tilak, however, carried the charge until the end, finishing unbeaten on 60 off just 29 balls with five fours and three sixes. Rinku Singh chipped in with a quick 12 before Brad Evans dismissed him in the final over, as India concluded their innings on an imposing 219/5. For Zimbabwe, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava, Brian Bennett, Newman Nyamhuri and Brad Evans claimed one wicket each.

India hammered Zimbabwe by 90 runs in the second T20I to clinch the series 2-0 after bowling out the hosts for 129 in a commanding display

IND vs ZIM, 2nd T20I: India thrash Zimbabwe by 90 runs; take 2-0 lead in series

India made one change to their playing XI for the second ODI against England after wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul was ruled out due to illness. Ishan Kishan replaced him in the side as England won the toss and chose to bowl first at Edgbaston. India captain Shubman Gill said his team would also have preferred to bowl first but was happy with the way they played in the first ODI.&nbsp;"We would have bowled first as well. We had a near-perfect game in the last match and hopefully we can do it again today," Gill said at the toss. "KL is sick, so he misses out, and Ishan Kishan comes back in."&nbsp;Gill also praised India’s fast bowlers for making a strong comeback after England got off to a good start in the Powerplay.&nbsp;"We had a good six or seven overs in the Powerplay before they put us under pressure. The way the fast bowlers came back and picked up wickets in the middle overs was tremendous to see," he said.&nbsp;The Indian captain also said he was happy to be back at Edgbaston, a ground he knows well from his time playing county cricket for Glamorgan.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2026-lionel-messi-dedicates-argentina-s-win-over-england-to-diego-maradona-1784198122173">FIFA World Cup 2026: Lionel Messi dedicates Argentina's win over England to Diego Maradona</a>&nbsp;England captain Harry Brook said the team decided to bowl first after looking at the pitch.&nbsp;"There is a nice even spread of grass. Hopefully we can get a little bit of seam movement and swing up front," Brook said. "We just need to execute slightly better. We fought well in the last game to take it deep, and we want more of the same."&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-why-did-icc-penalise-india-pacer-gurnoor-brar-1784199279505">IND vs ENG: Why did ICC penalise India pacer Gurnoor Brar?</a>&nbsp;England made two changes to their team, as Gus Atkinson and Saqib Mahmood came in for Josh Tongue and Liam Dawson to add more pace to the bowling attack.&nbsp;India Playing XI: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill (c), Virat Kohli, Ishan Kishan (wk), Shreyas Iyer, Washington Sundar, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Gurnoor Brar, Jasprit Bumrah and Prasidh Krishna&nbsp;England Playing XI: Ben Duckett, Jacob Bethell, Joe Root, Harry Brook (c), Jos Buttler (wk), Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Gus Atkinson, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid and Saqib Mahmood

India made one change to their playing XI for the second ODI against England, bringing in wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan for the unwell KL Rahul. England won the toss and opted to field first.

India made one change to their playing XI for the second ODI against England after wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul was ruled out due to illness. Ishan Kishan replaced him in the side as England won the toss and chose to bowl first at Edgbaston. India captain Shubman Gill said his team would also have preferred to bowl first but was happy with the way they played in the first ODI. "We would have bowled first as well. We had a near-perfect game in the last match and hopefully we can do it again today," Gill said at the toss. "KL is sick, so he misses out, and Ishan Kishan comes back in." Gill also praised India’s fast bowlers for making a strong comeback after England got off to a good start in the Powerplay. "We had a good six or seven overs in the Powerplay before they put us under pressure. The way the fast bowlers came back and picked up wickets in the middle overs was tremendous to see," he said. The Indian captain also said he was happy to be back at Edgbaston, a ground he knows well from his time playing county cricket for Glamorgan. Also Read - FIFA World Cup 2026: Lionel Messi dedicates Argentina's win over England to Diego Maradona England captain Harry Brook said the team decided to bowl first after looking at the pitch. "There is a nice even spread of grass. Hopefully we can get a little bit of seam movement and swing up front," Brook said. "We just need to execute slightly better. We fought well in the last game to take it deep, and we want more of the same." Also Read - IND vs ENG: Why did ICC penalise India pacer Gurnoor Brar? England made two changes to their team, as Gus Atkinson and Saqib Mahmood came in for Josh Tongue and Liam Dawson to add more pace to the bowling attack. India Playing XI: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill (c), Virat Kohli, Ishan Kishan (wk), Shreyas Iyer, Washington Sundar, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Gurnoor Brar, Jasprit Bumrah and Prasidh Krishna England Playing XI: Ben Duckett, Jacob Bethell, Joe Root, Harry Brook (c), Jos Buttler (wk), Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Gus Atkinson, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid and Saqib Mahmood

India made one change to their playing XI for the second ODI against England, bringing in wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan for the unwell KL Rahul. England won the toss and opted to field first.

IND vs ENG: Why is KL Rahul not playing the second ODI?

Amid Team India’s ongoing horror UK tour, their star batters Ishan Kishan (1st rank) and Abhishek Sharma (2nd rank) have topped the batting charts in the latest T20I rankings. The two left-handers have featured in all games since the start of the tour, but have failed to guide the team home in any. In five contested matches thus far, one of which was abandoned due to rain, India has lost four games, two to Ireland and as many to England, conceding the series on both occasions. Despite all, the Indian batters continue to dominate the rankings for T20I batters.&nbsp;Abhishek has been the top scorer across both camps, smashing 112 in three innings, including two fifties. He also scored a fifty against Ireland in the series opener in Belfast. Kishan, on the other hand, has been far from his best, accumulating just 62 runs in three matches against England. He has hit seven fours and just one six at a strike rate of 121.57, whereas Abhishek’s strike rate reads a staggering 203.64.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-4th-t20i-when-and-where-to-watch-live-streaming-in-india-1783510115984">IND vs ENG, 4th T20I: When and where to watch live streaming in India?</a> &nbsp;Even though such numbers are enough for them to retain their spots on the T20I rankings for batters, they were not enough to help India cross the winning line.&nbsp; &nbsp;Such was the wrath they faced that India lost the recently concluded 3rd T20I in Nottingham by 125 runs – their biggest margin of defeat in this format.&nbsp; &nbsp;Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, 15, who replaced Sanju Samson at the top, fell cheaply, with Abhishek and Kishan also failing to help India during the run chase.<h2>Iyer, Bethell among gainers</h2>While the newly-appointed T20I captain Shreyas Iyer was amongst the highest gainers following his 68 in the first T20I and 37 in the second game, jumping an astonishing 425 places to the joint 93rd position, England’s newest star Jacob Bethell jumped seven places to number eight. Bethell starred for England in the second T20I, scoring an unbeaten 76 off 46 balls to beat India by four wickets.&nbsp; &nbsp;On the other hand, all-rounder Sam Curran enjoyed a productive week by jumping 12 places to 108th position among batters and 12 to 71st in the bowling rankings. His overall exploits helped him jump six places to 13th among the all-rounders. &nbsp;Bristol will host the fourth T20I between India and England on Thursday (Jul 9).

Ishan Kishan and Abhishek Sharma top the ICC T20I charts despite India's nightmare UK tour and a crushing 125-run defeat against England in Nottingham.

Amid Team India’s ongoing horror UK tour, their star batters Ishan Kishan (1st rank) and Abhishek Sharma (2nd rank) have topped the batting charts in the latest T20I rankings. The two left-handers have featured in all games since the start of the tour, but have failed to guide the team home in any. In five contested matches thus far, one of which was abandoned due to rain, India has lost four games, two to Ireland and as many to England, conceding the series on both occasions. Despite all, the Indian batters continue to dominate the rankings for T20I batters. Abhishek has been the top scorer across both camps, smashing 112 in three innings, including two fifties. He also scored a fifty against Ireland in the series opener in Belfast. Kishan, on the other hand, has been far from his best, accumulating just 62 runs in three matches against England. He has hit seven fours and just one six at a strike rate of 121.57, whereas Abhishek’s strike rate reads a staggering 203.64. Also read| IND vs ENG, 4th T20I: When and where to watch live streaming in India? Even though such numbers are enough for them to retain their spots on the T20I rankings for batters, they were not enough to help India cross the winning line. Such was the wrath they faced that India lost the recently concluded 3rd T20I in Nottingham by 125 runs – their biggest margin of defeat in this format. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, 15, who replaced Sanju Samson at the top, fell cheaply, with Abhishek and Kishan also failing to help India during the run chase. Iyer, Bethell among gainers While the newly-appointed T20I captain Shreyas Iyer was amongst the highest gainers following his 68 in the first T20I and 37 in the second game, jumping an astonishing 425 places to the joint 93rd position, England’s newest star Jacob Bethell jumped seven places to number eight. Bethell starred for England in the second T20I, scoring an unbeaten 76 off 46 balls to beat India by four wickets. On the other hand, all-rounder Sam Curran enjoyed a productive week by jumping 12 places to 108th position among batters and 12 to 71st in the bowling rankings. His overall exploits helped him jump six places to 13th among the all-rounders. Bristol will host the fourth T20I between India and England on Thursday (Jul 9).

Ishan Kishan and Abhishek Sharma top the ICC T20I charts despite India's nightmare UK tour and a crushing 125-run defeat against England in Nottingham.

Ishan Kishan, Abhishek Sharma top T20I charts amid India's nightmare UK tour

From Abhishek Sharma to Ishan Kishan, here's a look at the top five batters in latest ICC T20I rankings 2026. This list also includes Phil Salt, Pathum Nissanka and Sahibzada Farhan

From Abhishek Sharma to Ishan Kishan, here's a look at the top five batters in latest ICC T20I rankings 2026. This list also includes Phil Salt, Pathum Nissanka and Sahibzada Farhan

Meet top 5 batters in the latest ICC T20I Rankings; check who tops the list

India’s Ishan Kishan has reached the top of the ICC Men’s T20I batting rankings for the first time in his career. In the latest ICC rankings released on Wednesday (July 1), Kishan overtook teammate Abhishek Sharma to claim the no. 1 position. Sharma’s impressive 11-month stint at the top came to an end following India’s two-match T20I series against Ireland. With this achievement, Kishan becomes only the fourth Indian batter to attain the no. 1 spot in the ICC Men’s T20I batting rankings, joining an elite list that includes Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, and Abhishek Sharma.&nbsp;Kishan returned to the Indian T20I setup for the T20 World Cup 2026 after an outstanding domestic season, and his remarkable performances have driven his rise to the summit. The wicketkeeper-batter enjoyed a sensational T20 World Cup campaign, scoring 317 runs at a strike rate of more than 190. His standout knock came against Pakistan, where he was named Player of the Match after delivering a match-winning performance. He also played a crucial innings in the tournament final, smashing 54 runs off just 25 balls against New Zealand.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/why-germany-s-winning-goal-against-paraguay-was-ruled-out-fifa-finally-explains-controversial-var-call-1782904023470">Why Germany’s winning goal against Paraguay was ruled out: FIFA finally explains controversial VAR call</a>&nbsp;India continue to dominate the ICC batting rankings, with newly appointed vice-captain Tilak Varma occupying the sixth spot. Among bowlers, Varun Chakravarthy remains India’s highest-ranked player at no. 3, while Jasprit Bumrah is placed sixth. Hardik Pandya continues to hold the No. 2 position in the ICC Men’s T20I all-rounder rankings.&nbsp;Despite suffering a surprising 2-0 series defeat to Ireland, India retained the no. 1 position in the ICC Men’s T20I team rankings with 272 rating points, maintaining a 10-point lead over second-placed England. India and England are set to start their highly anticipated five-match T20I series later on Wednesday (July 1).&nbsp;Meanwhile, the Indian women’s cricket team, which recently secured qualification for the LA 2028 Olympics, remains third in the ICC Women’s T20I team rankings behind Australia and England. Among Indian women cricketers, Smriti Mandhana is ranked no. 5 among batters, Sree Charani continues to lead the bowling rankings, and Deepti Sharma is India’s highest-ranked T20I all-rounder at no. 5.

Ishan Kishan becomes the ICC Men's T20I No.1 batter after a brilliant T20 World Cup 2026 campaign as India retain top spot in team rankings

India’s Ishan Kishan has reached the top of the ICC Men’s T20I batting rankings for the first time in his career. In the latest ICC rankings released on Wednesday (July 1), Kishan overtook teammate Abhishek Sharma to claim the no. 1 position. Sharma’s impressive 11-month stint at the top came to an end following India’s two-match T20I series against Ireland. With this achievement, Kishan becomes only the fourth Indian batter to attain the no. 1 spot in the ICC Men’s T20I batting rankings, joining an elite list that includes Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, and Abhishek Sharma. Kishan returned to the Indian T20I setup for the T20 World Cup 2026 after an outstanding domestic season, and his remarkable performances have driven his rise to the summit. The wicketkeeper-batter enjoyed a sensational T20 World Cup campaign, scoring 317 runs at a strike rate of more than 190. His standout knock came against Pakistan, where he was named Player of the Match after delivering a match-winning performance. He also played a crucial innings in the tournament final, smashing 54 runs off just 25 balls against New Zealand. Also Read: Why Germany’s winning goal against Paraguay was ruled out: FIFA finally explains controversial VAR call India continue to dominate the ICC batting rankings, with newly appointed vice-captain Tilak Varma occupying the sixth spot. Among bowlers, Varun Chakravarthy remains India’s highest-ranked player at no. 3, while Jasprit Bumrah is placed sixth. Hardik Pandya continues to hold the No. 2 position in the ICC Men’s T20I all-rounder rankings. Despite suffering a surprising 2-0 series defeat to Ireland, India retained the no. 1 position in the ICC Men’s T20I team rankings with 272 rating points, maintaining a 10-point lead over second-placed England. India and England are set to start their highly anticipated five-match T20I series later on Wednesday (July 1). Meanwhile, the Indian women’s cricket team, which recently secured qualification for the LA 2028 Olympics, remains third in the ICC Women’s T20I team rankings behind Australia and England. Among Indian women cricketers, Smriti Mandhana is ranked no. 5 among batters, Sree Charani continues to lead the bowling rankings, and Deepti Sharma is India’s highest-ranked T20I all-rounder at no. 5.

Ishan Kishan becomes ICC Men’s T20I no.1 batter after a stellar World Cup as India retain top spot in team rankings ahead of England series

Ishan Kishan replaces Abhishek Sharma as world no 1 T20 batter in latest ICC T20I batting rankings

The wicketkeeper-batter reached his hundred in just 71 balls, smashing 14 fours and four sixes. It was his second ODI century and the third-fastest hundred conceded by Afghanistan in the format, behind only Eoin Morgan's 57-ball ton against them in 2019.Kishan eventually departed for 125 off 79 deliveries, adding three more sixes to cap off a dominant innings.&nbsp;The left-hander had not featured in India's ODI squad since the 2023 World Cup. However, strong performances in T20Is and the Indian Premier League earned him a recall for the Afghanistan series. Prior to this knock, Kishan's only ODI century was his record-breaking 210 against Bangladesh in 2022. At the other end, captain Shubman Gill also brought up his ninth ODI century, reaching the milestone in 77 balls as India dominated proceedings.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/social-media-erupts-after-messi-escapes-red-card-for-reckless-challenge-in-argentina-s-3-0-win-over-algeria-1781690795351">Social media erupts after Messi escapes red card for reckless challenge in Argentina's 3-0 win over Algeria</a><h2>Ishan Kishan crosses 1,000-run mark in ODI</h2>Meanwhile, with his match-winning knock, the left-hander also crossed the 1,000-run mark in ODI cricket, achieving the milestone in just 26 innings and joining an elite group of Indian batters. Earlier, Afghanistan skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi won the toss and elected to field first, citing expected assistance for the spinners on a fresh Ekana Stadium surface. Opening the innings once again, Yashasvi Jaiswal endured a brief stay at the crease, falling for just four runs after being caught off Mohammed Saleem's bowling. His early dismissal brought captain Shubman Gill to the middle in only the third over of the innings.&nbsp;India made three changes to their playing XI, handing pacer Prince Yadav his international debut, while Kuldeep Yadav and Yashasvi Jaiswal returned to the side. The hosts came into the second ODI with a 1-0 advantage in the three-match series after securing a comfortable seven-wicket victory in the opener.<h2>What is the highest team score in ODI?</h2>The highest team score in One Day International (ODI) cricket was made by England cricket team against the Netherlands. The Three Lions posted a mammoth score of 498/4 on June 17, 2022, in Amstelveen.<h2>What is India’s highest score in ODIs?</h2>Centuries from Shubman Gill and Ishan Kishan propelled India into a commanding position against Afghanistan in the second ODI in Lucknow on Wednesday. India's highest-ever ODI total remains 418/5 against West Indies in Indore in 2011, a match remembered for Virender Sehwag's blistering maiden double century. The former opener also played a starring role in India's second-highest ODI total of 414/7 against Sri Lanka in Rajkot in 2009, scoring a magnificent century.&nbsp;Overall, India's 418/5 is the 12th-highest team total in ODI history. The world record belongs to England, who smashed 498/4 against the Netherlands in 2022. India eventually breached the 400-run barrier against Afghanistan, finishing on 402 all out. However, the hosts fell short of surpassing their own record for the highest ODI total.<h2>India’s highest team totals in ODIS</h2><ul><li>418/5 against West Indies in Indore, 2011</li><li>414/7 against Sri Lanka in Rajkot, 2009</li><li>413/5 against Bermuda in Port of Spain, 2007</li><li>410/5 against Netherlands in Bengaluru, 2023</li><li>409/8 against Bangladesh in Chattogram, 2022</li></ul>

Ishan Kishan scored a blazing 125 off 79 balls, including a 71-ball century, on his return to India’s ODI team against Afghanistan. Captain Shubman Gill also registered his ninth ODI hundred

The wicketkeeper-batter reached his hundred in just 71 balls, smashing 14 fours and four sixes. It was his second ODI century and the third-fastest hundred conceded by Afghanistan in the format, behind only Eoin Morgan's 57-ball ton against them in 2019. Kishan eventually departed for 125 off 79 deliveries, adding three more sixes to cap off a dominant innings. The left-hander had not featured in India's ODI squad since the 2023 World Cup. However, strong performances in T20Is and the Indian Premier League earned him a recall for the Afghanistan series. Prior to this knock, Kishan's only ODI century was his record-breaking 210 against Bangladesh in 2022. At the other end, captain Shubman Gill also brought up his ninth ODI century, reaching the milestone in 77 balls as India dominated proceedings. Also Read: Social media erupts after Messi escapes red card for reckless challenge in Argentina's 3-0 win over Algeria Ishan Kishan crosses 1,000-run mark in ODI Meanwhile, with his match-winning knock, the left-hander also crossed the 1,000-run mark in ODI cricket, achieving the milestone in just 26 innings and joining an elite group of Indian batters. Earlier, Afghanistan skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi won the toss and elected to field first, citing expected assistance for the spinners on a fresh Ekana Stadium surface. Opening the innings once again, Yashasvi Jaiswal endured a brief stay at the crease, falling for just four runs after being caught off Mohammed Saleem's bowling. His early dismissal brought captain Shubman Gill to the middle in only the third over of the innings. India made three changes to their playing XI, handing pacer Prince Yadav his international debut, while Kuldeep Yadav and Yashasvi Jaiswal returned to the side. The hosts came into the second ODI with a 1-0 advantage in the three-match series after securing a comfortable seven-wicket victory in the opener. What is the highest team score in ODI? The highest team score in One Day International (ODI) cricket was made by England cricket team against the Netherlands. The Three Lions posted a mammoth score of 498/4 on June 17, 2022, in Amstelveen. What is India’s highest score in ODIs? Centuries from Shubman Gill and Ishan Kishan propelled India into a commanding position against Afghanistan in the second ODI in Lucknow on Wednesday. India's highest-ever ODI total remains 418/5 against West Indies in Indore in 2011, a match remembered for Virender Sehwag's blistering maiden double century. The former opener also played a starring role in India's second-highest ODI total of 414/7 against Sri Lanka in Rajkot in 2009, scoring a magnificent century. Overall, India's 418/5 is the 12th-highest team total in ODI history. The world record belongs to England, who smashed 498/4 against the Netherlands in 2022. India eventually breached the 400-run barrier against Afghanistan, finishing on 402 all out. However, the hosts fell short of surpassing their own record for the highest ODI total. India’s highest team totals in ODIS 418/5 against West Indies in Indore, 2011 414/7 against Sri Lanka in Rajkot, 2009 413/5 against Bermuda in Port of Spain, 2007 410/5 against Netherlands in Bengaluru, 2023 409/8 against Bangladesh in Chattogram, 2022

Ishan Kishan celebrated his return to India’s ODI side with a 71-ball century against Afghanistan in Lucknow, scoring 125 off 79 balls, while captain Shubman Gill also hit a hundred

IND vs AFG: Ishan Kishan smashes 71-ball ton in ODI comeback, Gill hits ninth ODI ton

Meet top 5 batters in latest ICC T20I rankings 2026 - check who sits at the top

India batter Ishan Kishan has opened up about his approach during his time away from the national team, emphasising that consistent performances with the bat are the only way to earn a recall to the Indian side. The star batter made a strong comeback in 2026 after being dropped in 2024 and losing his BCCI central contract. Following a break to focus on his mental well-being, Kishan worked his way back through steady domestic performances, including a notable run in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, which helped him secure a place in India’s squad for the 2026 T20 World Cup.&nbsp;He also stepped into a leadership role in IPL 2026, captaining Sunrisers Hyderabad in the absence of Pat Cummins. Speaking on JioHotstar after SRH’s five-wicket win over Rajasthan Royals, Kishan said he chose not to dwell on disappointment during his time out of the side and instead focused on improving his game.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-this-is-not-evolution-former-india-shuttler-vimal-kumar-criticises-bwf-s-new-scoring-system-1777181258733">'This is not evolution...': Vimal Kumar criticises BWF’s new scoring system</a>&nbsp;He explained that feeling sorry for oneself may bring sympathy but does little to change outcomes, adding that scoring runs consistently was the only path back into contention.&nbsp;&nbsp;"When I wasn't playing and was out of the team, I told myself I can't cry or sulk about it. It's the easiest thing to do for any sportsman," Kishan said. "It might earn you sympathy, but it won't get you anywhere. The only thing that could have gotten me back into the reckoning was runs."&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-is-vaibhav-sooryavanshi-injured-rr-coach-shares-major-update-1777189398687">IPL 2026 | Is Vaibhav Sooryavanshi injured? RR coach shares major update</a>&nbsp;The wicketkeeper-batter stressed the importance of consistency, adding that selection depends purely on performance. "Only consistent run-scoring can bring you back into the team. If 300 runs in a season are not enough, score 400; if not that, score 500," he said.&nbsp;Kishan further reflected on how time away from the national side changed his perspective on the game. "At the end of the day, cricket is our daily bread. When you're out of the team, you understand its importance and start respecting every game. You become hungrier," he said. He added that his focus remained on pushing himself to become a better batter, even if it meant taking an aggressive approach. "I just wanted to improve my game and score as many runs as I could, even if that meant hitting more sixes than any other batter," Kishan said.&nbsp;With inputs from agencies

Ishan Kishan opened up about his time out of the national side, saying consistent performances with the bat are key to earning a recall.

India batter Ishan Kishan has opened up about his approach during his time away from the national team, emphasising that consistent performances with the bat are the only way to earn a recall to the Indian side. The star batter made a strong comeback in 2026 after being dropped in 2024 and losing his BCCI central contract. Following a break to focus on his mental well-being, Kishan worked his way back through steady domestic performances, including a notable run in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, which helped him secure a place in India’s squad for the 2026 T20 World Cup. He also stepped into a leadership role in IPL 2026, captaining Sunrisers Hyderabad in the absence of Pat Cummins. Speaking on JioHotstar after SRH’s five-wicket win over Rajasthan Royals, Kishan said he chose not to dwell on disappointment during his time out of the side and instead focused on improving his game. Also Read - 'This is not evolution...': Vimal Kumar criticises BWF’s new scoring system He explained that feeling sorry for oneself may bring sympathy but does little to change outcomes, adding that scoring runs consistently was the only path back into contention. "When I wasn't playing and was out of the team, I told myself I can't cry or sulk about it. It's the easiest thing to do for any sportsman," Kishan said. "It might earn you sympathy, but it won't get you anywhere. The only thing that could have gotten me back into the reckoning was runs." Also Read - IPL 2026 | Is Vaibhav Sooryavanshi injured? RR coach shares major update The wicketkeeper-batter stressed the importance of consistency, adding that selection depends purely on performance. "Only consistent run-scoring can bring you back into the team. If 300 runs in a season are not enough, score 400; if not that, score 500," he said. Kishan further reflected on how time away from the national side changed his perspective on the game. "At the end of the day, cricket is our daily bread. When you're out of the team, you understand its importance and start respecting every game. You become hungrier," he said. He added that his focus remained on pushing himself to become a better batter, even if it meant taking an aggressive approach. "I just wanted to improve my game and score as many runs as I could, even if that meant hitting more sixes than any other batter," Kishan said. With inputs from agencies

Ishan Kishan opened up about his time out of the national side, saying consistent performances with the bat are key to earning a recall.

'Only consistent run-scoring can bring you back': Ishan Kishan on India return

After SRH’s victory against Chennai Super Kings, skipper Ishan Kishan praised the team’s young and relatively inexperienced bowling unit for stepping up under pressure, while also pointing out that the batting group needs more discipline in shot selection. Thanks to half-centuries from Abhishek Sharma and Heinrich Klaasen, SRH posted a competitive total of 195. The young pace attack, featuring Eshan Malinga, Sakib Hussain, Praful Hinge and Nitish Kumar Reddy, along with spinner Shivang Kumar, then successfully defended the score. Although Praful was expensive during the powerplay, the bowling group tightened things up in the latter stages to restrict CSK and seal a 10-run win.&nbsp;Speaking after the match, Ishan said he was pleased to see the young bowlers developing confidence and executing their plans. He emphasised the importance of backing them despite inexperience, noting their steady improvement in training sessions.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Lovely when you have a bunch of young bowlers coming up with their plans. Looking at them, look at them getting better day by day at training, you have to trust them,” said Kishan.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-likely-to-extend-agarkar-s-tenure-as-chief-selector-ahead-of-2027-world-cup-1776578734343">BCCI likely to extend Agarkar’s tenure as chief selector ahead of 2027 World Cup</a>&nbsp;He also admitted the batting unit fell short by around 30–40 runs and stressed the need for smarter shot choices. Ishan added that the team is not focusing on the points table and prefers to take things one game at a time.&nbsp;"I felt we were 30-40 short, need to be a lot better in our shot selection. Not looking at the points table, need to keep our head down, we will take it one match at a time and see how it goes," he added.&nbsp;Player of the match Eshan, who took crucial wickets of CSK skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad, Matt Short and Sarfaraz Khan, also said during the post-match presentation, "Before the match we had a good plan, and we know the Hyderabad wicket, after 10 overs it reverses.&nbsp;Actually, Ishan was coming for me, he asking me - what kind of deliveries you are going to bowl. At the bowling crease, I decide what to bowl. The reverse is very important for me and the other bowlers. It's a good wicket-taking delivery." SRH has now jumped to fourth spot in the points table, with three wins and three losses.CSK is at the seventh spot, with two wins and four losses.CSK put SRH to bowl first, and half-centuries from Abhishek Sharma (59 in 22 balls, with six fours and four sixes) and Heinrich Klaasen (59 in 39 balls, with six fours and two sixes) took SRH to 194/9. During the run-chase of 195, CSK was in contention courtesy of knocks from Ayush Mhatre (30 in 13 balls, with five fours and a six), Matthew Short (34 in 30 balls, with three fours) and Sarfaraz Khan (25 in 16 balls, with three fours), but spells from Eshan (3/29), Nitish (2/31), Sakib Hussain (1/32) and Shivang Kumar (1/18) kept the pressure on CSK during the second half, leaving them 10 runs short.&nbsp;&nbsp;With inputs from agencies



Speaking after the match, Ishan said he was pleased to see the young bowlers developing confidence and executing their plans. He emphasised the importance of backing them despite inexperience, noting their steady improvement in training sessions. 

After SRH’s victory against Chennai Super Kings, skipper Ishan Kishan praised the team’s young and relatively inexperienced bowling unit for stepping up under pressure, while also pointing out that the batting group needs more discipline in shot selection. Thanks to half-centuries from Abhishek Sharma and Heinrich Klaasen, SRH posted a competitive total of 195. The young pace attack, featuring Eshan Malinga, Sakib Hussain, Praful Hinge and Nitish Kumar Reddy, along with spinner Shivang Kumar, then successfully defended the score. Although Praful was expensive during the powerplay, the bowling group tightened things up in the latter stages to restrict CSK and seal a 10-run win. Speaking after the match, Ishan said he was pleased to see the young bowlers developing confidence and executing their plans. He emphasised the importance of backing them despite inexperience, noting their steady improvement in training sessions. “Lovely when you have a bunch of young bowlers coming up with their plans. Looking at them, look at them getting better day by day at training, you have to trust them,” said Kishan. Also Read - BCCI likely to extend Agarkar’s tenure as chief selector ahead of 2027 World Cup He also admitted the batting unit fell short by around 30–40 runs and stressed the need for smarter shot choices. Ishan added that the team is not focusing on the points table and prefers to take things one game at a time. "I felt we were 30-40 short, need to be a lot better in our shot selection. Not looking at the points table, need to keep our head down, we will take it one match at a time and see how it goes," he added. Player of the match Eshan, who took crucial wickets of CSK skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad, Matt Short and Sarfaraz Khan, also said during the post-match presentation, "Before the match we had a good plan, and we know the Hyderabad wicket, after 10 overs it reverses. Actually, Ishan was coming for me, he asking me - what kind of deliveries you are going to bowl. At the bowling crease, I decide what to bowl. The reverse is very important for me and the other bowlers. It's a good wicket-taking delivery." SRH has now jumped to fourth spot in the points table, with three wins and three losses.CSK is at the seventh spot, with two wins and four losses.CSK put SRH to bowl first, and half-centuries from Abhishek Sharma (59 in 22 balls, with six fours and four sixes) and Heinrich Klaasen (59 in 39 balls, with six fours and two sixes) took SRH to 194/9. During the run-chase of 195, CSK was in contention courtesy of knocks from Ayush Mhatre (30 in 13 balls, with five fours and a six), Matthew Short (34 in 30 balls, with three fours) and Sarfaraz Khan (25 in 16 balls, with three fours), but spells from Eshan (3/29), Nitish (2/31), Sakib Hussain (1/32) and Shivang Kumar (1/18) kept the pressure on CSK during the second half, leaving them 10 runs short. With inputs from agencies

Speaking after the match, Ishan said he was pleased to see the young bowlers developing confidence and executing their plans. He emphasised the importance of backing them despite inexperience, noting their steady improvement in training sessions.&nbsp;

'When you have a bunch of young bowlers': SRH skipper Ishan celebrates win over CSK

Veteran India batter Ajinkya Rahane has always been a timing-oriented player rather an all-out attacker. It changed in IPL 2023 when he played for CSK, where he played more freely than ever and as a result, his strike rate jumped well over 150-mark in the season. Ever since 2023, Rahane has been constantly batting at higher strike rates but still faces the critics questioning him regularly. Former New Zealand player Simon Doull, meanwhile, has come to Rahane rescue and has said that the batter has been performing better than Rohit Sharma and Ishan Kishan, who are known foe their aggressive batting style. While Rahane (172) certainly did better in terms of strike rate than Rohit (133) and Kishan (143) in IPL 2023, he's been on par with both batters if not better from 2024-2026 in the tournament.<h2>Doull says Rahane's strike rate better than Rohit and Kishan</h2>"His numbers in the last four years have not been that bad. He averages 30 and strikes at 148 over 30-odd games. People are talking about dropping him. It’s a better record than what Rohit has got in the last four years. It’s an equal record to Ishan Kishan in the last four years. You are not talking about dropping any of those blokes," said Doull while talking to ESPNCricinfo.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mohammed-shami-aims-to-continue-ground-level-hard-work-amid-prolonged-india-snub-1775629661960">Mohammed Shami aims to continue 'ground-level hard work' amid prolonged India snub</a><h2>How has been Rahane's strike rate since IPL 2023 compared to Rohit and Kishan?</h2>In IPL 2023, Rahane played 14 matches for CSK and scored 326 runs at 172 - his career high. Things have slowed down since but still better his IPL career average of 125. In 2024, Rahane scored 242 runs for CSK at 124. In 2025, Rahane joined KKR and scored 390 runs in 13 matches at 148 and in IPL 2026, he has scored 83 runs so far at 148.As for Rohit (MI), he scored 332 runs in IPL 2023 at 133, 417 runs in IPL 2024 at 150, 418 runs in IPL 2025 at 140, 118 runs in IPL 2026 so far at 169. Kishan, on the other hand, played for MI in IPL 2023 and 2024, scoring 454 &amp; 320 runs at 143 and 149, respectively. He then joined SRH, scored 354 runs in IPL 2025 at 153 and has scored 95 runs in IPL 2026 so far at 186.

While Rahane (172) certainly did better in terms of strike rate than Rohit (133) and Kishan (143) in IPL 2023, he's been on par with both batters if not better from 2024-2026 in the tournament.

Veteran India batter Ajinkya Rahane has always been a timing-oriented player rather an all-out attacker. It changed in IPL 2023 when he played for CSK, where he played more freely than ever and as a result, his strike rate jumped well over 150-mark in the season. Ever since 2023, Rahane has been constantly batting at higher strike rates but still faces the critics questioning him regularly. Former New Zealand player Simon Doull, meanwhile, has come to Rahane rescue and has said that the batter has been performing better than Rohit Sharma and Ishan Kishan, who are known foe their aggressive batting style. While Rahane (172) certainly did better in terms of strike rate than Rohit (133) and Kishan (143) in IPL 2023, he's been on par with both batters if not better from 2024-2026 in the tournament. Doull says Rahane's strike rate better than Rohit and Kishan "His numbers in the last four years have not been that bad. He averages 30 and strikes at 148 over 30-odd games. People are talking about dropping him. It’s a better record than what Rohit has got in the last four years. It’s an equal record to Ishan Kishan in the last four years. You are not talking about dropping any of those blokes," said Doull while talking to ESPNCricinfo. Also Read - Mohammed Shami aims to continue 'ground-level hard work' amid prolonged India snub How has been Rahane's strike rate since IPL 2023 compared to Rohit and Kishan? In IPL 2023, Rahane played 14 matches for CSK and scored 326 runs at 172 - his career high. Things have slowed down since but still better his IPL career average of 125. In 2024, Rahane scored 242 runs for CSK at 124. In 2025, Rahane joined KKR and scored 390 runs in 13 matches at 148 and in IPL 2026, he has scored 83 runs so far at 148. As for Rohit (MI), he scored 332 runs in IPL 2023 at 133, 417 runs in IPL 2024 at 150, 418 runs in IPL 2025 at 140, 118 runs in IPL 2026 so far at 169. Kishan, on the other hand, played for MI in IPL 2023 and 2024, scoring 454 & 320 runs at 143 and 149, respectively. He then joined SRH, scored 354 runs in IPL 2025 at 153 and has scored 95 runs in IPL 2026 so far at 186.

While Rahane (172) certainly did better in terms of strike rate than Rohit (133) and Kishan (143) in IPL 2023, he's been on par with both batters if not better from 2024-2026 in the tournament.

IPL 2026 | Ex-NZ player Doull says Rahane playing better than Rohit and Kishan since 2023 - Here's what numbers tell

Top 5 batters in latest ICC T20I rankings 2026 – check who’s on top

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) may have missed out on the services of Mustafizur Rahman after a controversial call from the franchise, but he was hardly missed in the Indian Premier League (IPL 2026) contest against SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) on Thursday (April 2). Called in as a late replacement for Rahman, Blessing Muzarabani was right on the money on his home debut as he scalped the wickets of Ishan Kishan and Abhishek Sharma in the same over.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">𝗜.𝗖.𝗬.𝗠.𝗜 🎥 Rinku Singh making it look easy in the field 😏 He now has the most catches for <a href="https://twitter.com/KKRiders?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KKRiders</a> in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a> 🫴 🫡 Updates ▶️ <a href="https://t.co/iCMFpDudP7">https://t.co/iCMFpDudP7</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KhelBindaas?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KhelBindaas</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KKRvSRH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KKRvSRH</a> <a href="https://t.co/RQW52NAKE4">pic.twitter.com/RQW52NAKE4</a>&mdash; IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/2039729066736324800?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>KKR blessed with Blessing Muzarabani</h2>With SRH 111/1 after 8.1 overs, things were very much heading in the right direction for the home side before Muzarabani was called in to action. The Zimbabwe pacer first scalped Ishan (14 off 9) on the second ball of the ninth over before getting the better of Abhishek (48 off 21). While Abhishek’s dismissal looked controversial with the ball possibly touching the ground, he was given out by the third umpire. With Abhishek’s wicket on the fourth ball, Muzarabani scalped both Indian batters who recently won the T20 World Cup in a span of three balls to make a statement.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-sanju-samson-5-highest-individual-score-in-a-lost-chase-in-ipl-yusuf-pathan-kl-rahul-shaun-marsh-ipl-2026-1774084136030">From Rohit Sharma to Sanju Samson, 5 highest individual scores in a lost chase in IPL</a><h2>What happened in SRH innings?</h2>In the very next over, spinner Anukl Roy removed Aniket Verma (1) as Hyderabad slumped to 123/4 after the end of the 10th over. Nitish Kumar Reddy and Heinrich Klaasen steadied the ship for their side as Hyderabad posted 168/4 in 15 overs. During the 18th over, Kartik Tyagi conceded 16 runs as Hyderabad reached a commanding position of 200/4. In the very next over, Vaibhav Arora took back-to-back wickets of Nitish Reddy, who scored 39 off 24 balls, with five boundaries and Salil Arora for a golden duck.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-cameron-green-to-liam-livingstone-5-most-expensive-players-in-ipl-2026-auctions-matheesha-pathirana-kartik-sharma-prashant-veer-1774031148132">From Cameron Green to Liam Livingstone, 5 most expensive players in IPL 2026 auctions</a>&nbsp;Klaasen slammed 52 off 35 balls, with five boundaries, as Hyderabad posted a challenging total of 226/8 in 20 overs. For KKR, speedster Muzarabani picked up a four-wicket haul.

With SRH 111/1 after 8.1 overs, things were very much heading in the right direction for the home side before Muzarabani was called in to action. The Zimbabwe pacer first scalped Ishan (14 off 9) on the second ball of the ninth over before getting the better of Abhishek (48 off 21).

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) may have missed out on the services of Mustafizur Rahman after a controversial call from the franchise, but he was hardly missed in the Indian Premier League (IPL 2026) contest against SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) on Thursday (April 2). Called in as a late replacement for Rahman, Blessing Muzarabani was right on the money on his home debut as he scalped the wickets of Ishan Kishan and Abhishek Sharma in the same over.

With SRH 111/1 after 8.1 overs, things were very much heading in the right direction for the home side before Muzarabani was called in to action. The Zimbabwe pacer first scalped Ishan (14 off 9) on the second ball of the ninth over before getting the better of Abhishek (48 off 21).

IPL 2026: Mustafizur who? Blessing Muzarabani scalps Ishan Kishan, Abhishek Sharma in one over for KKR

The Indian Premier League (IPL 2026) season may have kicked off on Saturday (Mar 28), but we might already have the “Catch of the Season” contender after Phil Salt produced a magical moment. Playing for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the season opener, Salt clutched a low diving one-handed stunner to dismiss Ishan Kishan at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru against SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH). Netizens were seen applauding the English star who had earlier taken another stunner in the match.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">CATCH OF THE TOURNAMENT. 🥶 - Phil Salt has produced one of the greatest catches on Day 1 of IPL 2026. 🤯<a href="https://t.co/qdcVniVfWR">pic.twitter.com/qdcVniVfWR</a>&mdash; Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) <a href="https://twitter.com/mufaddal_vohra/status/2037920146182840389?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 28, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Salt pulls of stunner</h2>Fielding at the deep midwicket region, Salt took an exceptional catch while the ball was bound for a six. The catch took place on the sixth ball of the 16th over with Ishan batting on a well-made 80 off 37 before he was caught. The catch was applauded by everyone in the stadium as fans were left stunned after the catch was completed.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-sanju-samson-5-highest-individual-score-in-a-lost-chase-in-ipl-yusuf-pathan-kl-rahul-shaun-marsh-ipl-2026-1774084136030">From Rohit Sharma to Sanju Samson, 5 highest individual scores in a lost chase in IPL</a><h2>What happened in the match?</h2>RCB's chase began with a couple of boundaries in the first over off the bat of Phil Salt, but he fell early, in the very next over, for eight runs. However, Kohli looked in sublime touch from the first ball. He anchored the innings with a brilliant 69 off 38 deliveries, including five sixes. He became the first batter to score 6000 runs in the T20s. Kohli also became the first batter in IPL history to cross 4000 runs in chases.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-cameron-green-to-liam-livingstone-5-most-expensive-players-in-ipl-2026-auctions-matheesha-pathirana-kartik-sharma-prashant-veer-1774031148132">From Cameron Green to Liam Livingstone, 5 most expensive players in IPL 2026 auctions</a>&nbsp;However, it was Devdutt Padikkal who stole the show in the middle overs. Padikkal played with a strike rate of 234.62, bludgeoning 61 runs off just 26 balls, including four sixes and seven fours. His assault on the SRH spinners took the game away from the visitors entirely. Brief cameos from Rajat Patidar (31 off 12) and Tim David (16) ensured there were no late hiccups as RCB cruised to 203/4 in just 15.4 overs.

Playing for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the season opener, Phil Salt clutched a low diving one-handed stunner to dismiss Ishan Kishan at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

The Indian Premier League (IPL 2026) season may have kicked off on Saturday (Mar 28), but we might already have the “Catch of the Season” contender after Phil Salt produced a magical moment. Playing for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the season opener, Salt clutched a low diving one-handed stunner to dismiss Ishan Kishan at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru against SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH). Netizens were seen applauding the English star who had earlier taken another stunner in the match.

Playing for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the season opener, Phil Salt clutched a low diving one-handed stunner to dismiss Ishan Kishan at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

Watch: Phil Salt clutches unbelievable one-handed stunner to dismiss Ishan Kishan in IPL 2026 opener

During a practice match of Sunrisers Hyderabad on Saturday (Mar 21), 26-year-old spinner Zeeshan Ansari had a tense moment with team captain Ishan Kishan. The incident happened in the eighth over when Kishan and Liam Livingstone were batting in full flow. Kishan scored 20 runs off Ansari in one over, but the spinner later got him out. Even though practice matches are usually calm, Ansari reacted angrily after taking the wicket and signaled Kishan to leave the field and the two exchanged a few words. Kishan, however, did not take it seriously and was seen laughing as he walked back.&nbsp;&nbsp;There is also some speculation on social media about tension in the team, although it appeared to be just a reaction in the heat of the moment.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-set-to-return-to-belfast-after-19-years-as-ireland-t20i-series-schedule-released-1774068077917">India set to return to Belfast after 19 years as Ireland T20I series schedule released</a><h2>Watch the video below</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Send off to Ishan Kishan 🤯 During the intra squad match today, Zeeshan Ansari, a bowler for Sunrisers Hyderabad, was seen giving a send off to his own captain Ishan Kishan after dismissing him. The team atmosphere doesn’t seem to be very good. <a href="https://t.co/3b75QtTh3F">pic.twitter.com/3b75QtTh3F</a>&mdash; Stubbsy  (@spideypant_) <a href="https://twitter.com/spideypant_/status/2035409442519523630?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 21, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

During the previous Indian Premier League season, Ansari claimed six wickets in ten matches and has recently been in top form, taking 21 wickets in his last eight competitive outings. Meanwhile, Kishan is leading the team for the first few games because regular captain Pat Cummins is injured and expected to return in mid-April.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lebron-james-breaks-another-record-in-los-angeles-lakers-win-over-orlando-magic-1774150793454">LeBron James breaks another record in Los Angeles Lakers win over Orlando Magic</a>&nbsp;Interestingly, this happened shortly after Jharkhand assistant coach Sunny Gupta spoke about Kishan’s leadership, praising him as more serious than people think and highlighting his focus on maintaining a positive team environment while maintaining discipline and responsibility.&nbsp;Sunrisers Hyderabad will begin their IPL 2026 campaign against defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Mar 28 at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

Sunrisers Hyderabad will begin their IPL 2026 campaign against defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Mar 28 at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

During a practice match of Sunrisers Hyderabad on Saturday (Mar 21), 26-year-old spinner Zeeshan Ansari had a tense moment with team captain Ishan Kishan. The incident happened in the eighth over when Kishan and Liam Livingstone were batting in full flow. Kishan scored 20 runs off Ansari in one over, but the spinner later got him out. Even though practice matches are usually calm, Ansari reacted angrily after taking the wicket and signaled Kishan to leave the field and the two exchanged a few words. Kishan, however, did not take it seriously and was seen laughing as he walked back. There is also some speculation on social media about tension in the team, although it appeared to be just a reaction in the heat of the moment. Also Read - India set to return to Belfast after 19 years as Ireland T20I series schedule released Watch the video below

Sunrisers Hyderabad will begin their IPL 2026 campaign against defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Mar 28 at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

Watch: Ishan Kishan receives fiery send-off from teammate in SRH practice match

After being out of the team for more than two years, Ishan Kishan made a strong comeback to the India squad following his impressive performances for Jharkhand in the 2025 edition of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. The 27-year-old wicketkeeper-batter was selected ahead of Jitesh Sharma for the five-match T20I series against New Zealand in Jan 2026 and also for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. Many people were surprised by this choice because Jitesh had been part of India’s title-winning team in the Asia Cup the previous year. However, India’s T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav said the decision was on his gut feeling.&nbsp;In an interview with Press Trust of India (PTI), Surya said it was a difficult call because Jitesh had been with the team for about a year and a half and had been playing regularly. He admitted he felt bad about leaving him out.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/people-are-treating-pakistan-like-zimbabwe-ahmed-shehzad-tears-into-men-in-green-for-bangladesh-drubbing-odi-series-loss-shaheen-mike-hesson-1773651636067">‘People are treating Pakistan like Zimbabwe’: Shehzad on ODI series loss to BAN</a>&nbsp;“It (Ishan’s selection) was completely on gut and a little bit on data as well because it was very harsh on Jitesh Sharma at that time because he was with the team for the last 1-1.5 years and he was playing as well. It’s not like he was not playing. If he was not playing, the story would have been different. I was very sad when we had to pick Ishan over Jitesh. But then if we had to bring some firepower in the top, if we had to do the openers left-right or if we had to pick the top two wicketkeepers, someone had to miss out," Surya said.&nbsp;Surya also shared that he personally called Ishan and asked him if he could help India win the World Cup and Ishan replied that Surya should trust him and the captain agreed. Surya later said that Ishan’s performances proved that the decision was right.&nbsp;&nbsp;“So, I just called him (Ishan) and asked, “will you win the World Cup?, so he just replied, ‘just trust me.’ I said, "okay, I trust you, and the way he played – it was amazing," he added.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/afc-general-secretary-iran-still-slated-for-fifa-world-cup-2026-participation-despite-withdrawal-rumors-us-president-donald-trump-iran-israel-war-usa-1773648150617">AFC: Iran still slated for World Cup participation despite withdrawal rumours</a>&nbsp;According to Surya, he always believed Ishan could bring something special to the team. After being dropped earlier, Ishan returned home, thought about what went wrong and worked hard in domestic cricket. He played practice matches across India, performed well in domestic tournaments and the IPL and eventually earned his place back in the team. &nbsp;&nbsp;“I mean, the way he started from the bilaterals (five-match T20I series against New Zealand), I always knew that he was bringing an X-factor to the side because he had no baggage. When he went out of the team 1-1.5 years ago, he went back home; I think he must have sat, analysed what had happened to him, and gone on to play domestic cricket. He told me his entire journey, where all he went to play; he played practice matches in every corner of India. And then the way he played domestic cricket, he performed in the IPL; I think he deserved that spot completely," Surya said.

After being picked ahead of Jitesh Sharma for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, Ishan Kishan delivered strong performances, scoring 317 runs in nine matches.

After being out of the team for more than two years, Ishan Kishan made a strong comeback to the India squad following his impressive performances for Jharkhand in the 2025 edition of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. The 27-year-old wicketkeeper-batter was selected ahead of Jitesh Sharma for the five-match T20I series against New Zealand in Jan 2026 and also for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. Many people were surprised by this choice because Jitesh had been part of India’s title-winning team in the Asia Cup the previous year. However, India’s T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav said the decision was on his gut feeling. In an interview with Press Trust of India (PTI), Surya said it was a difficult call because Jitesh had been with the team for about a year and a half and had been playing regularly. He admitted he felt bad about leaving him out. Also Read - ‘People are treating Pakistan like Zimbabwe’: Shehzad on ODI series loss to BAN “It (Ishan’s selection) was completely on gut and a little bit on data as well because it was very harsh on Jitesh Sharma at that time because he was with the team for the last 1-1.5 years and he was playing as well. It’s not like he was not playing. If he was not playing, the story would have been different. I was very sad when we had to pick Ishan over Jitesh. But then if we had to bring some firepower in the top, if we had to do the openers left-right or if we had to pick the top two wicketkeepers, someone had to miss out," Surya said. Surya also shared that he personally called Ishan and asked him if he could help India win the World Cup and Ishan replied that Surya should trust him and the captain agreed. Surya later said that Ishan’s performances proved that the decision was right. “So, I just called him (Ishan) and asked, “will you win the World Cup?, so he just replied, ‘just trust me.’ I said, "okay, I trust you, and the way he played – it was amazing," he added. Also Read - AFC: Iran still slated for World Cup participation despite withdrawal rumours According to Surya, he always believed Ishan could bring something special to the team. After being dropped earlier, Ishan returned home, thought about what went wrong and worked hard in domestic cricket. He played practice matches across India, performed well in domestic tournaments and the IPL and eventually earned his place back in the team. “I mean, the way he started from the bilaterals (five-match T20I series against New Zealand), I always knew that he was bringing an X-factor to the side because he had no baggage. When he went out of the team 1-1.5 years ago, he went back home; I think he must have sat, analysed what had happened to him, and gone on to play domestic cricket. He told me his entire journey, where all he went to play; he played practice matches in every corner of India. And then the way he played domestic cricket, he performed in the IPL; I think he deserved that spot completely," Surya said.

After being picked ahead of Jitesh Sharma for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, Ishan Kishan delivered strong performances, scoring 317 runs in nine matches.

'It was completely on gut...': Suryakumar Yadav on selecting Ishan Kishan over Jitesh Sharma

From Sanju Samson to Ishan Kishan, here's a look at the top five Indian batters with most runs in T20 World Cup 2026. This list also includes Suryakumar Yadav, Shivam Dube and Hardik Pandya

From Sanju Samson to Ishan Kishan, here's a look at the top five Indian batters with most runs in T20 World Cup 2026. This list also includes Suryakumar Yadav, Shivam Dube and Hardik Pandya

Meet top 5 Indian batters with most runs in T20 World Cup 2026

From Sahibzada Farhan to Tim Seifert, here's a look at the top five batters with most runs in T20 World Cup 2026. This list also includes Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan and Finn Allen

From Sahibzada Farhan to Tim Seifert, here's a look at the top five batters with most runs in T20 World Cup 2026. This list also includes Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan and Finn Allen

Meet top 5 batters with most runs in T20 World Cup 2026

India made history at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday (Mar 8) by becoming the first team to retain the T20 World Cup title after defeating New Zealand in the final. India now are also the first side to win a T20 WC title at home and have three trophies to their name as well. The Men in Blue had previously won the T20 World Cup back in 2007 and in 2024.While the team battled it out on the field, wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan was also fighting an emotional battle of his own. During the post-match press conference, Kishan revealed that he had lost his cousin sister, to whom he was very close, in a car accident a day before the final. &nbsp;The wicketkeeper said he came to know about the tragic news during a practice session and was deeply disturbed.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-prize-money-3-million-for-indian-team-check-runners-up-semifinalists-share-1773004004609">T20 World Cup 2026 Prize Money: $3 million for Indian Team; check runners-up, semifinalists’ share</a>“I lost my cousin sister yesterday in a car accident. I got the news during the practice session. So, I want to dedicate my knock to her. When I looked up after the fifty, it was for her,” Kishan said.Despite the personal loss, Kishan delivered a brilliant performance in the final, scoring 54 off 25 balls, including four boundaries and four sixes, as India defeated New Zealand by 96 runs.“She [My cousin] always wanted me to score runs. This one is for her. I dedicate this win to her, and today is Women’s Day, so it makes it all the more special,” he added.Kishan enjoyed an outstanding tournament with the bat. The left-hander finished as the fourth-highest run-scorer in the competition, amassing 317 runs in nine matches at an impressive strike rate of 193.29, including three half-centuries. The southpaw was called up to India’s squad for the 2026 T20 World Cup following a stellar run in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025-26, where he scored 517 runs in 10 innings at a remarkable strike rate of 197.32.During the press conference, Kishan also recalled a conversation with India’s T20 captain Suryakumar Yadav when he received the call-up to the national team.“When Surya (Suryakumar Yadav) bhai called me, I took a screenshot thinking it was about the World Cup. He asked, ‘Will you help us win the World Cup?’ I replied, ‘Will you trust me?’ I told him I would do it, and he said, ‘Alright, done.’”Kishan also spoke about how he has changed his mindset in the last couple of years.The 27-year-old batter revealed that he has now stopped overthinking and now concentrates only on what he can control.“I have stopped thinking too much. I just focus on doing my job and not worry about things beyond my control. That’s something Virat (Kohli) bhai has always followed,” he said.

India wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan was also fighting an emotional battle of his own. During the post-match press conference, Kishan revealed that he had lost his cousin sister, to whom he was very close, in a car accident a day before the final. 

India made history at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday (Mar 8) by becoming the first team to retain the T20 World Cup title after defeating New Zealand in the final. India now are also the first side to win a T20 WC title at home and have three trophies to their name as well. The Men in Blue had previously won the T20 World Cup back in 2007 and in 2024. While the team battled it out on the field, wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan was also fighting an emotional battle of his own. During the post-match press conference, Kishan revealed that he had lost his cousin sister, to whom he was very close, in a car accident a day before the final. The wicketkeeper said he came to know about the tragic news during a practice session and was deeply disturbed. Also Read - T20 World Cup 2026 Prize Money: $3 million for Indian Team; check runners-up, semifinalists’ share “I lost my cousin sister yesterday in a car accident. I got the news during the practice session. So, I want to dedicate my knock to her. When I looked up after the fifty, it was for her,” Kishan said. Despite the personal loss, Kishan delivered a brilliant performance in the final, scoring 54 off 25 balls, including four boundaries and four sixes, as India defeated New Zealand by 96 runs. “She [My cousin] always wanted me to score runs. This one is for her. I dedicate this win to her, and today is Women’s Day, so it makes it all the more special,” he added. Kishan enjoyed an outstanding tournament with the bat. The left-hander finished as the fourth-highest run-scorer in the competition, amassing 317 runs in nine matches at an impressive strike rate of 193.29, including three half-centuries. The southpaw was called up to India’s squad for the 2026 T20 World Cup following a stellar run in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025-26, where he scored 517 runs in 10 innings at a remarkable strike rate of 197.32. During the press conference, Kishan also recalled a conversation with India’s T20 captain Suryakumar Yadav when he received the call-up to the national team. “When Surya (Suryakumar Yadav) bhai called me, I took a screenshot thinking it was about the World Cup. He asked, ‘Will you help us win the World Cup?’ I replied, ‘Will you trust me?’ I told him I would do it, and he said, ‘Alright, done.’” Kishan also spoke about how he has changed his mindset in the last couple of years. The 27-year-old batter revealed that he has now stopped overthinking and now concentrates only on what he can control. “I have stopped thinking too much. I just focus on doing my job and not worry about things beyond my control. That’s something Virat (Kohli) bhai has always followed,” he said.

India wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan was also fighting an emotional battle of his own. During the post-match press conference, Kishan revealed that he had lost his cousin sister, to whom he was very close, in a car accident a day before the final.&nbsp;

T20 World Cup 2026 | Ishan Kishan dedicates title win to cousin who 'died a day before final'

From Sahibzada Farhan to Ishan Kishan, here's a look at the top five batters with most runs in T20 World Cup 2026 (league stage). This list also includes Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis and Aiden Markram

From Sahibzada Farhan to Ishan Kishan, here's a look at the top five batters with most runs in T20 World Cup 2026 (league stage). This list also includes Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis and Aiden Markram.

Meet top 5 batters with most runs in T20 World Cup 2026 (league stage)

Pakistan coach Mike Hesson the dressing being 'disappointed' after a comprehensive loss against arch-rivals India on Sunday (Feb 15) in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026. Chasing 176, Pakistan were never in the hunt after losing four wickets inside the powerplay and eventually got bowled out for 114, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-india-thrash-pakistan-to-confirm-super-8-spot-ishan-kishan-stars-with-bat-india-vs-pakistan-1771173049221">losing the match by 61 runs</a>. Pak coach Hesson was frank in his assessment of the team and questions the shots played by the top order, including skipper Salman Ali Agha, on a surface which was a bit tacky. Pakistan now must win their last group stage match against Namibia to avoid potential net run rate showdown with the USA to qualify for the Super 8 stage.<h2>Pakistan coach shares dressing room update after India loss</h2>"It's a pretty disappointed dressing room in there at the moment because they know how much it means to Pakistan," Hesson said after the loss. "And we are really disappointed we didn't play as well as we could, but we're also part of the tournament and we know in tournament play that it's not always going to go your way. So our job is to pick ourselves up and make sure that we're very good in two or three days."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-west-indies-crush-nepal-s-hopes-to-seal-super-8-spot-1771144357073">T20 World Cup 2026: West Indies crush Nepal's hopes to seal Super 8 spot</a>On picking out a reason where it went wrong for the team, Hesson acknowledged: "We lost wickets early on to shots that I'm sure on that surface they were pretty tough, tough options. On a quicker surface, (like) SSC, might be a little bit different. So it is about adapting and we've been really good the last few months about adapting to different conditions. Today we probably took a little step back."<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-ishan-kishan-misses-out-on-ton-gives-india-perfect-start-1771164721274">Ishan sizzles with sensational 77 vs Pak</a></h2>After being put in to bat first, India lost Abhishek Sharma early who scored his second consecutive duck in the tournament. Ishan Kishan, however, took the charge of the Indian innings and scored a sensational 40-ball 77 with 10 fours and three sixes. He added 87 runs for the second wicket with Tilak Varma (25) and put India on course for a good total on a tough pitch. India eventually managed 175/7 in 20 overs with Suryakumar Yadav being the second highest run-scorer for India with 32.

Pak coach Hesson was frank in his assessment of the team and questions the shots played by the top order, including skipper Salman Ali Agha, on a surface which was a bit tacky. Pakistan now must win their last group stage match against Namibia to comfortably qualify for the Super 8 stage.

Pakistan coach Mike Hesson the dressing being 'disappointed' after a comprehensive loss against arch-rivals India on Sunday (Feb 15) in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026. Chasing 176, Pakistan were never in the hunt after losing four wickets inside the powerplay and eventually got bowled out for 114, losing the match by 61 runs. Pak coach Hesson was frank in his assessment of the team and questions the shots played by the top order, including skipper Salman Ali Agha, on a surface which was a bit tacky. Pakistan now must win their last group stage match against Namibia to avoid potential net run rate showdown with the USA to qualify for the Super 8 stage. Pakistan coach shares dressing room update after India loss "It's a pretty disappointed dressing room in there at the moment because they know how much it means to Pakistan," Hesson said after the loss. "And we are really disappointed we didn't play as well as we could, but we're also part of the tournament and we know in tournament play that it's not always going to go your way. So our job is to pick ourselves up and make sure that we're very good in two or three days." Also Read - T20 World Cup 2026: West Indies crush Nepal's hopes to seal Super 8 spot On picking out a reason where it went wrong for the team, Hesson acknowledged: "We lost wickets early on to shots that I'm sure on that surface they were pretty tough, tough options. On a quicker surface, (like) SSC, might be a little bit different. So it is about adapting and we've been really good the last few months about adapting to different conditions. Today we probably took a little step back." Ishan sizzles with sensational 77 vs Pak After being put in to bat first, India lost Abhishek Sharma early who scored his second consecutive duck in the tournament. Ishan Kishan, however, took the charge of the Indian innings and scored a sensational 40-ball 77 with 10 fours and three sixes. He added 87 runs for the second wicket with Tilak Varma (25) and put India on course for a good total on a tough pitch. India eventually managed 175/7 in 20 overs with Suryakumar Yadav being the second highest run-scorer for India with 32.

Pak coach Hesson was frank in his assessment of the team and questions the shots played by the top order, including skipper Salman Ali Agha, on a surface which was a bit tacky. Pakistan now must win their last group stage match against Namibia to comfortably qualify for the Super 8 stage.

T20 World Cup 2026 | 'Pretty disappointed dressing room:' Pak coach Hesson questions shot selection by top order after loss vs India

Pakistan’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign was derailed by India on Sunday (Feb 15) as the Men in Blue registered their routine win over their arch-rivals. Led by Ishan Kishan’s heroics with the bat, India won by 61 runs to book their place in the Super 8 stage of the T20 World Cup 2026. However, it is Pakistan who are in a spot of bother as they could miss out on the T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 spot in case things go against them in the Namibia clash.<h2>Will Pakistan miss out on Super 8 stage of T20 World Cup?</h2>After a defeat to India on Sunday in the Group A clash of the T20 World Cup, it is the Men in Blue who have qualified for the Super 8 stage. This means only one more team can join Suryakumar Yadav and Co in the Super 8 stage. As things stand, in Group A, India are already qualified and Namibia are eliminated after their defeat to the USA earlier.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;This leaves three teams – Pakistan, the Netherlands and the USA scrambling for a spot in the Super 8 stage. The USA have already finished their group stage campaign with two wins and two defeats and accumulated four points. Meaning whichever team wins on the final matchday on Wednesday (Feb 18) will go through.&nbsp;On Wednesday, Pakistan face already eliminated Namibia while India face the Netherlands at the Narendra Modi Stadium.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a><h2>What is the equation on Wednesday?</h2>If Pakistan win against Namibia and the Netherlands lose to India, the former will make the Super 8 stage. In this case, Pakistan and the Netherlands both lose; it will be the USA who will qualify for the Super 8 stage. However, if Pakistan lose and the Netherlands beat India, the second spot will be decided by the net run rate (NRR). At this moment, the USA have a better NRR, but the margin of win will affect the NRR for the Netherlands.

A fixture surrounded by political tensions with a threat of boycott, India was the beneficiary as they got the better of Pakistan to maintain their perfect record in the T20 World Cup, stretching their winning streak to 11 matches. 

Pakistan’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign was derailed by India on Sunday (Feb 15) as the Men in Blue registered their routine win over their arch-rivals. Led by Ishan Kishan’s heroics with the bat, India won by 61 runs to book their place in the Super 8 stage of the T20 World Cup 2026. However, it is Pakistan who are in a spot of bother as they could miss out on the T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 spot in case things go against them in the Namibia clash. Will Pakistan miss out on Super 8 stage of T20 World Cup? After a defeat to India on Sunday in the Group A clash of the T20 World Cup, it is the Men in Blue who have qualified for the Super 8 stage. This means only one more team can join Suryakumar Yadav and Co in the Super 8 stage. As things stand, in Group A, India are already qualified and Namibia are eliminated after their defeat to the USA earlier. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli This leaves three teams – Pakistan, the Netherlands and the USA scrambling for a spot in the Super 8 stage. The USA have already finished their group stage campaign with two wins and two defeats and accumulated four points. Meaning whichever team wins on the final matchday on Wednesday (Feb 18) will go through. On Wednesday, Pakistan face already eliminated Namibia while India face the Netherlands at the Narendra Modi Stadium. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds What is the equation on Wednesday? If Pakistan win against Namibia and the Netherlands lose to India, the former will make the Super 8 stage. In this case, Pakistan and the Netherlands both lose; it will be the USA who will qualify for the Super 8 stage. However, if Pakistan lose and the Netherlands beat India, the second spot will be decided by the net run rate (NRR). At this moment, the USA have a better NRR, but the margin of win will affect the NRR for the Netherlands.

A fixture surrounded by political tensions with a threat of boycott, India was the beneficiary as they got the better of Pakistan to maintain their perfect record in the T20 World Cup, stretching their winning streak to 11 matches.&nbsp;

T20 World Cup 2026: Will Pakistan miss out on Super 8 stage? Here's what we know so far

India extended its dominance in the T20 World Cup against arch-rivals Pakistan as they beat them by 61 runs at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Sunday (Feb 15). A fixture surrounded by political tensions with a threat of boycott, India was the beneficiary as they got the better of their rivals to maintain their perfect record in the T20 World Cup, stretching their winning streak to 11 matches. The win also saw India officially confirm their spot in the Super 8 stage of the T20 World Cup.<h2>India thrash Pakistan in Colombo</h2>In a one-sided contest, India's bowlers defended 175 runs as Pakistan were bowled out for 114 in 18 overs. Only four Pakistan batters scored in double figures as India were at the top of their game with both bat and ball. Usman Khan (44) was the top scorer for Pakistan, while Shadab Khan (14), Shaheen Afridi (23) and Faheem Ashraf (10) were the only other batters in double figures.&nbsp;Indian bowlers came in handy as Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, Axar Patel and Varun Chakaravarthy ended with two wickets each.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a><h2>What happened in Indian innings?</h2>Batting first, India were off to a poor start as they lost Abhishek Sharma in the first over for a duck. However, Ishan Kishan (77 off 40) steadied the ship as he, along with Tilak Varma (25), stitched 87 runs for the second wicket. Ishan was the aggressor of the duo as he scored 77 runs, which included 10 fours and 3 sixes. He laid the foundation for India’s brilliant start before the start as the Men in Blue recovered well.&nbsp;After Ishan’s dismissal, captain Suryakumar Yadav (32) was the moderator of the innings before India lost back-to-back wickets of Tilak Varma and Hardik Pandya (0). In the end, Pakistan made a swift recovery as India were restricted to 175/7 in 20 overs.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;Interestingly, Pakistan used spinners for 18 overs, thereby setting a new record in any T20I match.&nbsp;India next take on the Netherlands on Wednesday (Feb 18) at the Narendra Modi Stadium to conclude their group stage campaign. Pakistan, on the other hand face Namibia on the same day.

A fixture surrounded by political tensions with a threat of boycott, India was the beneficiary as they got the better of their rivals to maintain their perfect record in the T20 World Cup, stretching their winning streak to 11 matches. 

India extended its dominance in the T20 World Cup against arch-rivals Pakistan as they beat them by 61 runs at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Sunday (Feb 15). A fixture surrounded by political tensions with a threat of boycott, India was the beneficiary as they got the better of their rivals to maintain their perfect record in the T20 World Cup, stretching their winning streak to 11 matches. The win also saw India officially confirm their spot in the Super 8 stage of the T20 World Cup. India thrash Pakistan in Colombo In a one-sided contest, India's bowlers defended 175 runs as Pakistan were bowled out for 114 in 18 overs. Only four Pakistan batters scored in double figures as India were at the top of their game with both bat and ball. Usman Khan (44) was the top scorer for Pakistan, while Shadab Khan (14), Shaheen Afridi (23) and Faheem Ashraf (10) were the only other batters in double figures. Indian bowlers came in handy as Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, Axar Patel and Varun Chakaravarthy ended with two wickets each. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds What happened in Indian innings? Batting first, India were off to a poor start as they lost Abhishek Sharma in the first over for a duck. However, Ishan Kishan (77 off 40) steadied the ship as he, along with Tilak Varma (25), stitched 87 runs for the second wicket. Ishan was the aggressor of the duo as he scored 77 runs, which included 10 fours and 3 sixes. He laid the foundation for India’s brilliant start before the start as the Men in Blue recovered well. After Ishan’s dismissal, captain Suryakumar Yadav (32) was the moderator of the innings before India lost back-to-back wickets of Tilak Varma and Hardik Pandya (0). In the end, Pakistan made a swift recovery as India were restricted to 175/7 in 20 overs. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli Interestingly, Pakistan used spinners for 18 overs, thereby setting a new record in any T20I match. India next take on the Netherlands on Wednesday (Feb 18) at the Narendra Modi Stadium to conclude their group stage campaign. Pakistan, on the other hand face Namibia on the same day.

A fixture surrounded by political tensions with a threat of boycott, India was the beneficiary as they got the better of their rivals to maintain their perfect record in the T20 World Cup, stretching their winning streak to 11 matches.&nbsp;

T20 World Cup 2026: India thrash Pakistan to confirm Super 8 spot, Ishan Kishan stars with bat

From Virat Kohli to Ishan Kishan here is a list of five 5 batters with highest individual scores in India-Pakistan T20Is. The list also features current India head coach Gautam Gambhir and Pakistan’s Mohammad Rizwan with Ishan joining the list after T20 World Cup 2026 clash.

From Virat Kohli to Ishan Kishan here is a list of five 5 batters with highest individual scores in India-Pakistan T20Is. The list also features current India head coach Gautam Gambhir and Pakistan’s Mohammad Rizwan with Ishan joining the list after T20 World Cup 2026 clash.

From Virat Kohli to Ishan Kishan, 5 batters with highest individual scores in India-Pakistan T20Is

In the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026 match between India and Pakistan at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Ishan Kishan on Sunday (Feb 15) played a brilliant knock of 77 runs from just 40 balls, hitting 10 fours and three big sixes before getting out to Saim Ayub in the ninth over. The 27-year-old left-hander looked very confident from the start. He hit a six and a four off fast bowler Shaheen Afridi in the second over and it made Pakistan captain Salman Agha bring in spinners. But Kishan attacked spinners as well and smashed a four off Agha and then scored several boundaries against Saim Ayub, Shadab Khan and Abrar Ahmed, who struggled to stop him. &nbsp;With this innings, Kishan became the fourth Indian player to score a half-century against Pakistan in a T20 World Cup match. He joined Virat Kohli, Gautam Gambhir and Robin Uthappa on this elite list.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-pakistan-t20-world-cup-2026-captains-avoid-handshake-india-make-key-changes-for-high-octane-contest-suryakumar-yadav-1771161126462">India vs Pakistan, T20 World Cup: Captains avoid handshake, India make key changes for high-octane contest</a>&nbsp;Earlier, Pakistan won the toss and decided to bowl first. India had a poor start as opener Abhishek Sharma, who was returning after illness, was out for a duck. He was dismissed by captain Salman Agha, who bowled the first over as a surprise move. The decision worked well for Pakistan.&nbsp;At the time of writing, India were 92 for two after 10 overs. Captain Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma were at the crease. So far, Pakistan have tried six different bowlers and surprisingly Shaheen Afridi has bowled only one over.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-vs-sl-t20-world-cup-2026-match-30-check-live-streaming-details-head-to-head-pitch-weather-report-1771153953535">AUS vs SL, T20 World Cup 2026: Check live streaming details, H2H and more</a>&nbsp;With 10 overs still left and eight wickets in hand, India will look to score big in the final half of the innings. Pakistan, on the other hand, will need quick wickets to stop India from setting a huge total.

With 10 overs still left and eight wickets in hand, India will look to score big in the final half of the innings. Pakistan, on the other hand, will need quick wickets to stop India from setting a huge total.

In the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026 match between India and Pakistan at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Ishan Kishan on Sunday (Feb 15) played a brilliant knock of 77 runs from just 40 balls, hitting 10 fours and three big sixes before getting out to Saim Ayub in the ninth over. The 27-year-old left-hander looked very confident from the start. He hit a six and a four off fast bowler Shaheen Afridi in the second over and it made Pakistan captain Salman Agha bring in spinners. But Kishan attacked spinners as well and smashed a four off Agha and then scored several boundaries against Saim Ayub, Shadab Khan and Abrar Ahmed, who struggled to stop him. With this innings, Kishan became the fourth Indian player to score a half-century against Pakistan in a T20 World Cup match. He joined Virat Kohli, Gautam Gambhir and Robin Uthappa on this elite list. Also Read - India vs Pakistan, T20 World Cup: Captains avoid handshake, India make key changes for high-octane contest Earlier, Pakistan won the toss and decided to bowl first. India had a poor start as opener Abhishek Sharma, who was returning after illness, was out for a duck. He was dismissed by captain Salman Agha, who bowled the first over as a surprise move. The decision worked well for Pakistan. At the time of writing, India were 92 for two after 10 overs. Captain Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma were at the crease. So far, Pakistan have tried six different bowlers and surprisingly Shaheen Afridi has bowled only one over. Also Read - AUS vs SL, T20 World Cup 2026: Check live streaming details, H2H and more With 10 overs still left and eight wickets in hand, India will look to score big in the final half of the innings. Pakistan, on the other hand, will need quick wickets to stop India from setting a huge total.

With 10 overs still left and eight wickets in hand, India will look to score big in the final half of the innings. Pakistan, on the other hand, will need quick wickets to stop India from setting a huge total.

T20 World Cup 2026: Ishan Kishan misses out on ton, gives India perfect start

From Yuvraj Singh to Ishan Kishan here is a look at five Indian batters to score fastest fifties in T20 World Cup by balls taken. The honourable list also features the likes of KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma as Ishan joined the club on Thursday. 

From Yuvraj Singh to Ishan Kishan here is a look at five Indian batters to score fastest fifties in T20 World Cup by balls taken. The honourable list also features the likes of KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma as Ishan joined the club on Thursday.&nbsp;

From Yuvraj Singh to Ishan Kishan, 5 Indian batters to score fastest fifties in T20 World Cup (by balls taken)

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