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Pat Cummins' IPL 2026 playing chances rest on recovery from back injury

Sparsh Vyas — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 13:06:00 +0530

After being sidelined from Australia's T20 World Cup 2026 campaign, Sunrisers Hyderabad captain Pat Cummins has cast doubt on his participation in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, admitting it depends on his recovery from a back injury.While Cummins remains hopeful of leading the Orange Army in IPL 2026, which begins on March 26, he is not willing to rush his return."We'll just be guided by my back," he told AAP. "We'll have another scan in a few weeks, and if it's good, then we'll have a slow build-up. T20s are a little bit easier to get up for, that's why I was so close to getting up for this World Cup."The Australia skipper missed out on the T20 World Cup squad after suffering what he described as a "minor setback".

After missing T20 World Cup, will Cummins recover before IPL 2026?

Cummins, who has been troubled by a back injury for the last seven months, was expected to be fit for the marquee event in Sri Lanka and India, but will not travel with the squad. His only competitive match during the troubled period was one Test of a five-match Ashes rubber at home."It was really unfortunate," Cummins said. "I feel pretty good, just a minor setback and just ran out of time really. I'll rest up for a few weeks and go from there.""We knew after the (Adelaide) Test match we were going to need somewhere between four and eight weeks to let the bone settle right down before then building back up. Initially, we thought it might only be four weeks, because I was feeling really good, but just had a follow-up scan. They thought it probably needs another couple of weeks, so the timeline just became a bit too tight."The decision not to rush Cummins' return is mainly due to Australia's packed schedule over the next 18 months.During this period, Australia will play home Tests against Bangladesh and New Zealand and will tour South Africa, India, and England. Besides the bilateral engagements, Australia will also

'They'll be hard to beat': Ricky Ponting picks clear favourites to win T20 World Cup 2026 title

Abhishek Kumar — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 10:31:00 +0530

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting believes India are clear favourites to win the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026, considering home conditions and the talent in their ranks. India warmed up in style for the showpiece event with a 4-1 thrashing of New Zealand in the recently concluded T20I series at home.The defending champions will look to carry on the momentum when they begin their campaign against USA in the T20 World Cup 2026, which gets underway on February 07. While Ponting feels India will arguably be the favourites for the title, he has also backed Australia to make it to the semi-finals despite their 0-3 whitewash in the recently concluded T20I series against Pakistan.Pakistan hammered Australia by 111 runs in the third and final T20I of the three-match series at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Sunday to clean sweep the series 3-0. Spinner Mohammad Nawaz bagged a fifer as Pakistan bundled out Australia for a paltry 96 in the 208-run chase in the 3rd T20I to secure a thumping win.Australia's shambolic series defeat against Pakistan exposed their woes against spin in subcontinent conditions ahead of the T20 World Cup, which is set to be played in India and Sri Lanka. However, Ponting is confident the 2021 champions can reach the semi-finals of the tournament."If you look at the squad, I think they have as good a chance as anybody," Ponting said while speaking to the ICC."India probably start as the clear favourites because of the conditions, the talent and the group of players they have put together. They’ll be hard to beat. But I really do think we’ll see Australia there come semi-final time," he added.

Australia dealing with injury issues ahead of T20 World Cup

Australia announced their squad for the T20 World Cup 2026 last week, confirming Pat Cummins' ouster due to a back injury. While Cummins has been ruled out, Australia snubbed senior batter Steve Smith from the squad despite his recent heroics in the Big Bash League.Ponting admitted injuries remain Australia's biggest problem ahead of the start of the T20 World Cup 2026. However, the legendary batter believes the likes of Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis and Cooper Connolly can step up to shoulder more responsibility in the team.Senior pacer Josh Hazlewood is also expected to miss the early stages of the T20 World Cup and will join the rest of the Australian squad in India late, as he continues his rehab in Sydney for his Achilles issue.

Tilak Varma lays fitness fears to bed with brisk knock in T20 World Cup warm-up vs USA

Sparsh Vyas — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 20:35:00 +0530

Tilak Varma emphatically dismissed fitness worries ahead of the T20 World Cup with an impactful knock in the warm-up fixture between India A and the USA at the Dr DY Patil Sports Academy, Navi Mumbai.Returning to competitive cricket after being sidelined for a month, Varma showed no signs of rust and played some attractive shots to help India A post a mammoth total of 238/3 in 20 overs.Tilak was playing his first match since being out of action for nearly a month following an abdominal surgery for an injury suffered during the Ranji Trophy earlier in January.He missed the five-match T20I series against New Zealand, but was named in the World Cup squad by the selectors. Tilak looked fluent on his return to competitive cricket against the USA side, which is pooled alongside India and faces the Asian giants in the opener on inaufural day of the tournament.

Tilak returns to action in style

Batting at his usual No.3 spot, Tilak scored a fluent 38 runs off 24 balls with the help of three fours and two sixes. The left-hander also shared a crucial 113-run stand for the second wicket with opening batter Narayan Jagadeesan, who scored a sensational century.After getting some much-needed gametime, Tilak will link up with the Indian squad on Tuesday, February 3, ahead of the team's opening match against the USA at the Wankhede Stadium on February 7.Tilak's return to action and in the groove bodes well for Team India ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026, which begins in India and Sri Lanka on February 7.The Hyderabad batter has emerged as one of the most consistent performers for India in the last 18 monthsThe classy left-hander emerged as an unlikely hero for India in the Asia Cup 2025 final against Pakistan with a match-winning, unbeaten 69-run knock to help the Suryakumar Yadav-led side win the continental title at the Dubai International Stadium.In 2024, he also scored two impressive centuries against South Africa in back-to-back away-from-home matches in Centurion and Johannesburg.

Pakistan off to Sri Lanka for T20 World Cup amid India boycott row

Sparsh Vyas — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 19:28:00 +0530

Amid the boycott stance against India, the Pakistan cricket team has departed for Sri Lanka to participate in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026. The developement comes following the Pakistan government's decision to boycott the much-awaited fixture against India in the tournament, scheduled to be held on December 15 in Colombo.The Pakistan government granted permission for the Salman Agha-led team to participate in the T20 World Cup but instructed them not to play the match against India. However, there is no official communication yet from the PCB to ICC.Less than a day after the official announcement of the boycott, Pakistan have flown to Sri Lanka to compete in the tournament. The Men in Green are scheduled to play all of their fixtures under a hybrid model agreement with the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in December 2024.

WATCH: PAK players leave for Sri Lanka

Amidst the uncertainty surrounding the India-Pakistan fixture, videos of Pakistan players leaving the airport have gone viral on social media. The likes of Fakhar Zaman, Shaheen Afridi, and Salman Agha, among others, were seen carrying their luggage on departure.Pakistan will open their campaign against the Netherlands on the opening day at the SSC in Colombo.Meanwhile, despite Pakistan's boycott stance, the Indian team is expected to travel to Sri Lanka as scheduled. As per reports, captain Suryakumar Yadav is set to walk out for the toss even if skipper Salman Ali Agha does not appear. In that case, the match referee will award India a walkover, resulting in two points being awarded to the Men In Blue.

Pakistan set to face stringent actions

Pakistan's announcement to play selectively in the tournament might cost them dearly, as the move has not gone down well with the ICC.After Pakistan's move to boycott the India match, the ICC is likely to hold a key meeting in the next 48 hours, and if the situation is not resolved soon, PCB could face severe sanctions.These might include penalties ranging from financial losses to a ban on issuing No-Objection Certificates (NOCs) for overseas players participating in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), a freeze on payout of funds to Pakistan from the ICC revenue, demanding compensation from PCB to the broadcaster for the revenue loss, exclusion from the Asia Cup and suspension of all bilateral series involving Pakistan.

'He is lucky': Tony Nadal feels Carlos Alcaraz's opponents are of lower calibre compared to past greats

Abhishek Kumar — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 15:21:00 +0530

Legendary tennis coach Toni Nadal feels Carlos Alcaraz is lucky to be playing in an era of weaker opposition compared to the past greats, including the likes of his nephew Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer. Nadal, who coached his nephew Rafael to an impressive 16 of the 22 Grand Slams he won in his career, said the level has gone down in world tennis.Alcaraz on Sunday defeated Novak Djokovic in the 2026 Australian Open final to win his maiden title Down Under and complete a Career Grand Slam. Alcaraz scripted history by becoming the youngest male player to achieve a Career Grand Slam at the age of 22.The Spanish world no.1 defeated Djokovic 2-6 6-2 6-3 7-5 in the final to deny the Serbian ace a record-extending 25th Grand Slam title. Djokovic, who is already the most decorated player in men's tennis history, is chasing an elusive 25th Grand Slam to become the most successful player of all time in men's and women's tennis across all eras.As Alcaraz continues to forge dominance in world tennis, Nadal hailed the 22-year-old's physical attributes and his technique. However, he insisted the current world no.1 is lucky to be competing at a time when players don't pose the same challenge as the likes of Andy Murray, Stan Wawrinka and Juan Martin del Potro did at the time of Nadal, Federer and Djokovic."He (Alcaraz) has exceptional physical attributes, excellent technical skill, and on top of that, he’s lucky: his opponents are of a lower calibre. And I’m not saying this because I’m Rafael Nadal’s uncle – not at all. I try to be fair, but it’s clear," said Nadal on Onda Cero radio."Before, when you went out to play against [Juan] Del Potro, [Andy] Murray, or [Stan] Wawrinka , you knew you were going to suffer and that the match was going to be tough. If they had a great day, they could beat you," he added.

Alexander Zverev is the only one who can challenger Sinner, Alcaraz: Nadal

Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner have dominated men's tennis, sharing Grand Slam titles between them one tournament after another in the last two years. The duo have won the last nine Grand Slam titles between them, effectively ending any competition from a third player.While Djokovic continues to battle hard for an elusive 25th Grand Slam despite turning 38, he has failed to get past Sinner and Alcaraz. Toni Nadal believes among the current generation of players, only Alexander Zverev has the potential to challenge the dominance of Alcaraz and Sinner."He’s the only one who could take on Alcaraz and Sinner, as long as he changes some habits in his game and his character," Nadal said about Zverev, who bowed out of the semi-finals after a loss against Alcaraz in the Australian Open 2026.When asked to pick one between Alcaraz and Sinner, Nadal preferred the Spaniard, however, he insisted the latter is a more solid and reliable player."Personally, I much prefer Alcaraz. When they face each other, the match depends more on what the Murcian does. Looking at the numbers, I think Sinner is a little more reliable; he’s a little more solid,” said the former coach of Rafael Nadal.

Australia to begin T20 World Cup campaign without Josh Hazlewood as injury rehab continues

Sparsh Vyas — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 14:10:00 +0530

Australia will be without the services of fast bowler Josh Hazlewood, who will not travel with the squad for the early part of the team's T20 World Cup matches in Sri Lanka. The ace paceman is still recovering from an Achilles injury and will continue his rehabilitation in Sydney, national selector Tony Dodemaide announced on Monday.While Hazlewood will not travel to Sri Lanka for Australia's initial few matches, Nathan Ellis, Tim David and Glenn Maxwell have landed in Colombo. The Australian squad will join the trio on Tuesday for the upcoming ICC T20 showpiece event starting in India and Sri Lanka on February 7.Australia will play their four group games in Colombo and Pallekele, starting February 11 against Ireland.

Hazlewood to remain in Sydney for rehab

Hazlewood will remain in Sydney for his rehab during the early stages of the tournament to continue on his road to recovery. Sean Abbott has been added to the touring party as a travelling reserve.Dodemaide said: "Nathan, Tim and Glenn have arrived in Colombo and we look forward to meeting up with them when we arrive from Pakistan."We felt with Josh it was more practical and beneficial for him to continue his rehabilitation at home in a familiar environment before travelling to Sri Lanka."Hazlewood has been sidelined since the 2025-26 Ashes series due to a lingering Achilles injury that he sustained during his rehabilitation from a previous hamstring issue.While Hazlewood's unavailability for the early part of the tournament is confirmed, there is no specific date for his arrival in Sri Lanka. Australia's preliminary matches will end on February 20 after fixtures against group rivals Oman, Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe.Australia are already without seasoned pacer Pat Cummins, who was recently ruled out of the entire tournament due to a persistent back injury. He has been replaced by Ben Dwarshuis.The T20 World Cup will be jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8.

'Would they refuse to play World Cup final?': Kevin Pietersen questions Pakistan's India match boycott stance

Abhishek Kumar — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 11:51:00 +0530

Pakistan's decision to boycott the marquee India clash in the upcoming T20 World Cup has sparked a debate in the cricketing world. The Pakistan government on Sunday confirmed that the men's national team has been cleared to take part in the tournament, which gets underway on February, 07, however, they will not take the field in their group-stage clash against India.India and Pakistan are part of the same group in the 2026 T20 World Cup and are scheduled to lock horns in Colombo on February 15. Pakistan's decision to boycott the game has come in solidarity with Bangladesh, who were replaced in the tournament by Scotland after they refused to travel to India for their matches.Earlier, multiple reports in Pakistan claimed that the government and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) were contemplating boycotting the India game to express solidarity with Bangladesh. Pakistan's decision has sent shockwaves across the cricketing world, with several former cricketers wondering how far the stance can go.Former England captain Kevin Pietersen was among the first ones to question the logic behind the move. In a post on his official X account, Pietersen questioned Pakistan's stance and asked if they would refuse to play India if both teams ended up reaching the final of the T20 World Cup 2026."Not sure if India can meet Pakistan in this World Cup final due to groups and play-offs, but if they can, would Pakistan refuse to play the World Cup final?" Pietersen wrote on X.

ICC warns Pakistan after boycott threat

Meanwhile, the ICC issued a warning to Pakistan after the country's government confirmed the decision about boycotting the India clash in the T20 World Cup 2026. ICC warned Pakistan against 'selective participation' in a global event like the T20 World Cup and said the decision is not In the interest of the game.ICC warned PCB to consider the long-term implications the move can trigger for Pakistan cricket. While the governing body didn't mention any potential sanctions in their statement, Pakistan risk facing some strict action if they decide to go ahead with the boycott of the India match in the T20 World Cup 2026.

WPL 2026: Delhi Capitals beat UP Warriorz by 5 wickets to qualify for Eliminator

Prince Thakur — Sun, 01 Feb 2026 23:07:00 +0530

New Delhi: Delhi Capitals defeated UP Warriorz by five wickets in the last league stage match of the Women's Premier League (WPL) 2026 at the BCA Stadium on Sunday, February 1. With this win, the Capitals have qualified for the eliminators of the WPL 2026.The Jemimah Rodrigues-led side knocked out two-time champions Mumbai Indians, who finished fourth and UP Warriorz, who finished last in the points table. Delhi ended their league stage campaign in third place with eight points in eight matches, winning four matches and losing four.Apart from DC, Gujarat Giants (GG) finished second on the points table, and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) topped the charts, having qualified for the playoffs of the WPL 2026 season.

Delhi Capitals beat UP Warriorz by five wickets

After being asked to bat first, UP Warriorz were restricted to 122/8 in 20 overs. Their batters struggled to perform, and none of them managed to cross the 30-run mark. Deepti Sharma scored 24 runs off 19 balls, including four boundaries and one six, and Simran Shaikh amassed 22 runs off 14 deliveries, with the help of three boundaries.Shikha Pandey also made a crucial contribution for the UP Warriorz, scoring an unbeaten 23 runs off 13 balls, smashing three boundaries. Marizanne Kapp picked up three wickets, while Chinelle Henry and Shree Charani also bagged two wickets each.Chasing the 123-run target, the DC got off to a disappointing start as Deandra Dottin dismissed Lizelle Lee for 10 runs in the second over. Opener Shafali Verma scored 29 runs off 33 balls, with the help of two boundaries.However, Laura Wolvaardt scored 47 runs off 36 balls, smashing seven boundaries, and captain Jemimah Rodrigues also amassed 26 runs off 16 balls, helping the Delhi Capitals to chase down the target in 18.4 overs.

Captain Salman Agha breaks silence on Pakistan's decision to boycott T20 World Cup match vs India

Prince Thakur — Sun, 01 Feb 2026 22:24:00 +0530

New Delhi: Pakistan skipper Salman Ali Agha opened up on the government's decision to boycott the 2026 T20 World Cup match against India. The Government of Pakistan confirmed the news on Sunday, instructing the team to skip the group-stage match against India.The decision came after the ICC decided to remove Bangladesh from the tournament after they refused to play their matches in India due to security concerns. The BCB remained firm on its stance, which led the global body to replace them with Scotland.

'We cannot do anything about it'

Pakistan's skipper said that it was not the player's decision and the team would follow the instructions of the government and the PCB."Yes, absolutely, we will go. But that is not our decision, sir, and we cannot do anything about it. Whatever our government and our chairman instruct us to do, we have to follow. Only then will we go, and we will do that," Agha said in the press conference after the T20I series win against Australia.Pakistan were scheduled to take on India on February 15 at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. Salman Agha and Co. defeated Australia by 111 runs to complete a 3-0 whitewash in the T20I series.Pakistan are placed in Group A with India, Namibia, the Netherlands, and the UAE, with all their matches scheduled to be played in Sri Lanka, who are the co-host of the tournament alongside India.Relations between the PCB and BCCI have not been good after India refused to travel to Pakistan for the 2025 Champions Trophy. During the Asia Cup 2025, the Indian players also refused to shake hands with Pakistan cricketers after the Pahalgam terror attack.Tensions grew further when the Bangladesh Cricket Board informed the ICC that their team would not travel to India due to security concerns. Pakistan reportedly also offered to host Bangladesh’s matches, but the ICC rejected the request.

Babar Azam breaks Virat Kohli's record as Pakistan whitewash Australia in T20I series

Prince Thakur — Sun, 01 Feb 2026 20:20:00 +0530

New Delhi: Pakistan defeated Australia by 111 runs in the third and final T20I at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Sunday, February 1. Saim Ayub, Babar Azam, and Mohammad Nawaz starred as the hosts whitewashed Australia 3-0 in the T20I series.Chasing 208 runs target, Australia were bowled out for 96 in 16.5 overs, with Adam Zampa not coming out to bat. The visitors got off to a poor start as Shaheen Afridi removed Australian skipper Mitchell Marsh on the fourth ball of the over.The Australian batting line-up struggled against Pakistani bowlers, with Matthew Short and Matt Renshaw getting dismissed cheaply. The Aussies were reduced to 16/3 in 2.5 overs with Cameron Green and Marcus Stoinis at the crease.They forged a 44-run partnership for the fourth wicket, propelling the score to 60/4 in 9.1 overs. Mohammad Nawaz broke the stand, removing Stoinis, who scored 23 runs from 22 balls with the help of three boundaries.After his dismissal, the visitors suffered a collapse and bowled out for 90/9 in 16.5 overs, resulting in their third biggest losing margin in T20Is. Mohammad Nawaz took five wicket and Shaheen Shah Afridi also picked up two wickets.

Babar breaks Kohli's T20I record

Earlier, Saim Ayub and Babar Azam smashed half-centuries, and a quick-fire knock from Shadab Khan helped Pakistan to set a 208-run target in 20 overs.Sahibzada Farhan was dismissed for 10 in the second over, which brought Salman Agha to the crease at number three, but the captain failed to repeat his earlier heroics and was dismissed by Ben Dwarshuis for five runs, leaving Pakistan struggling at 34/2 in 3.4 overs.Babar Azam joined Saim Ayub in the middle, and they changed the momentum with a69-run partnership for the third wicket.Ayub scored 56 runs off 37 balls, smashing six boundaries and two maximums, before losing to Matthew Kuhnemann. Nafay also made a useful contribution, scoring 21 runs off 12 balls. All-rounder Shadab Khan played a stunning knock in the end, smashing 46 runs off just 19 deliveries with the help of five maximums and seven boundaries.Shadab also forged a vital 57-run partnership with Babar, who remained unbeaten on 50 from 36 balls. He broke Virat Kohli's record for most half-centuries in men's T20I cricket.Most fifties in men's T20I

Player	Fifties	Matches
Babar Azam (Pakistan)	39	139
Virat Kohli (India)	38	125
Rohit Sharma (India)	32	159
Mohammad Rizwan (Pakistan)	30	106
David Warner (Australia)	28	110

Australian Open 2026 prize money: How much will Carlos Alcaraz get after completing career Grand Slam?

Prince Thakur — Sun, 01 Feb 2026 16:52:00 +0530

New Delhi: Carlos Alcaraz became the youngest man ever to complete a career Grand Slam after defeating Novak Djokovic in the Australian Open final to secure the title. The World No.1 Alcaraz dropped the opening set on Sunday as Djokovic went out hard to win a record 25th major title, but the Spaniard rallied to a 2-6, 6-2, 6-3, 7-5 victory.Alcaraz scrambled to retrieve shots that usually would be winners for Djokovic, also keeping intense pressure on his 38-year-old rival. After he secured victory, Alcaraz fell to the ground on his back, putting his hands to his head.He stayed on the ground for a few seconds before going to the net to shake hands with the Serbian. Alcaraz and Djokovic were coming from a gruelling five-set semifinal victories and showed great fitness, athleticism and stamina for three hours in the final.The Serbian's push for the 25th Grand Slam singles title has now been blocked by Alcaraz or Jannik Sinner for nine majors. He defeated Sinner in the semifinals and was looking to become the oldest man to clinch a Grand Slam title in the Open era, but Alcaraz delivered a brilliant performance.

How much prize money will Carlos Alcaraz get for winning Australia Open title?

At 22 years and 272 days, Alcaraz became the youngest man to complete a set of all four major singles titles. He broke the record set by Don Budge in the 1938 French championships, when he was 22 years and 363 days.The prize money at the Australian Open continues to grow every year, and 2026 was no exception. The 2026 Australian Open had announced a total prize money of AU $111.5 million, which is approximately US $75 million (Rs 6,87,70,87,500 approx).After his win, Alcaraz will get a whopping USD 2.79 million (Rs 25.61 crore approx), which is an increase of 19% from 2025, while Novak Djokovic will receive USD 1,447,165 (Rs 13.26 crore).

'Final call on February 07': Suryakumar Yadav on Ishan Kishan vs Sanju Samson for opener role

Abhishek Kumar — Sun, 01 Feb 2026 16:37:00 +0530

Team India skipper Suryakumar Yadav addressed the selection dilemma surrounding Sanju Samson and Ishan Kishan after his team's 46-run win over New Zealand in the 5th T20I at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram on Saturday. India won the game convincingly to wrap up the five-match series 4-1.Kishan continued his red-hot form with the bat as he starred in India's victory in the 5th T20I with his maiden ton in the format. The explosive left-hander went all guns blazing to smash 103 runs off 43 balls, stealing the limelight at the venue, where all eyes were on home boy Samson.Kishan's stunning knock was laced with 10 sixes and six fours as he made a mockery of the New Zealand bowling attack, staking a claim for a permanent spot in the playing XI with the T20 World Cup 2026 getting underway next week. His purple patch has coincided with Samson's rough patch at the top.Samson endured a fifth straight failure in the series on Saturday as he was dismissed cheaply on 6 off 6 balls after opening the innings with Abhishek Sharma. His failure meant Samson finished the series with just 46 runs from five matches, invoking concerns for the Indian team management ahead of the showpiece event.With the T20 World Cup approaching, questions have been raised about Samson's form as he continues to flop at the top. Many feel Kishan should be slotted at the top to open with Abhishek once Tilak Varma returns fully fit at no.3 amid Samson's horror run. When asked about the selection dilemma, Suryakumar said a final call will be made on February 07.“Tilak Varma’s status remains uncertain. I’ve got to know that he’s batting well and looking sharp. His return would create a selection dilemma, as all 15 squad members are playing XI contenders. The final call on Ishan Kishan versus Sanju Samson for the opener role will be revealed on February 7th," said Suryakumar after India's victory in the 5th T20I.India will open their campaign against USA in the T20 World Cup 2026 on February 07. India will lock horns with USA at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. It remains to be seen if the team management will continue backing Samson for the opening slot or will they replace him with Kishan at the top after Tilak returns.

India squad to assemble in Mumbai before T20 World Cup 2026

The Indian squad will assemble in Mumbai next week to begin their preparations for the T20 World Cup 2026. The hosts are reportedly set to play South Africa in a warm-up game at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai, before locking horns with USA in their opening game of the World Cup on February 07.India will then take on Namibia in their next group game on February 12, before locking horns with arch-rivals Pakistan in a blockbuster clash in Colombo on February 15. India will face Netherlands in their final group-stage clash on February 18.

Cameron Green mocks Usman Tariq with 'chucking gesture', Pakistan star hits back with Insta post

Abhishek Kumar — Sun, 01 Feb 2026 10:24:00 +0530

Pakistan's Usman Tariq's bowling action has come under the scanner after Australia all-rounder Cameron Green made a 'chucking' gesture to mock the spinner during the 2nd T20I between the two sides at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Saturday. Pakistan defeated Australia by 90 runs in the game to seal the three-match series with an unassailable 2-0 lead.The incident took place during the 11th over of Australia's 199-run chase against Pakistan after Green was dismissed by Tariq. The Aussie all-rounder who was going all guns blazing, was caught by Shadab Khan after misconnecting an outside off delivery from the spinner. Green was dismissed after scoring 35 off 20 balls.Green was seen making a throwing gesture with his hand as he walked back to the Australian dugout, a gesture that many felt was made to mock Tariq, indirectly accusing him of 'chucking'. Green was seen trying to replicate Tariq's action in front of his teammates after reaching the Australian dugout, expressing his frustration.The Australian all-rounder's gesture left fans divided as many felt it was an unsporting gesture from Green out of frustration after he was dismissed in a high-scoring run chase. However, many supported the Aussie star, questioning the legality of Tariq's bowling action.

Watch Cameron Green mocks Usman Tariq with 'chucking' gesture:

Tariq's bowling action has come under the scanner on quite a few occasions in the past. He was reported for suspected bowling action during the ninth and tenth seasons of the Pakistan Super League (PSL). After being reported, the spinner underwent official testing at a PCB-accredited biomechanics lab and was cleared, with his action being declared legal.However, his unique bowling action has come under the scanner once again in the ongoing T20I series between Pakistan and Australia. After getting cleared by the PCB, Tariq had maintained that his bowling action was legal, however, it continues to divide fans and invoke opinions.

Usman Tariq hits back at Cameron Green

Tariq hit back at Green with an Instagram post after his 'chucking' gesture went viral post the 2nd T20I between Pakistan and Australia. The Pakistan spinner posted a viral meme on his Insta story, responding to Green's gesture. He shared a picture of a crying kid and wrote "After getting out". Many felt his post was a reply to Green after his gesture during the game.Check out Usman Tariq's Instagram story:Talking about the game, Pakistan thrashed Australia by 90 runs in the 2nd T20I to bag their second consecutive victory and seal the three-match series. Batting first, Pakistan rode on skipper Salman Agha's 40-ball 76 and Usman Khan's 53 off 36 balls to post a strong total of 198 runs on the board.In reply, Australia were bowled out for a paltry 108 runs in just 15.4 overs to suffer a crushing defeat and lose the series. The two teams will lock horns in the final third T20I on Sunday, February 01 before leaving for Sri Lanka for the T20 World Cup 2026, which gets underway next week.

'Extra effort is needed': Ishan Kishan reflects on T20 World Cup preparations after series win vs NZ

Prince Thakur — Sat, 31 Jan 2026 23:42:00 +0530

New Delhi: Ishan Kishan smashed his maiden T20I hundred as India defeated New Zealand by 46 runs in the fifth T20I in Thiruvananthapuram on Saturday, January 31. The Men in Blue won the five-match series 4-1.The left-handed batter struck 103 runs off 43 balls with the help of 10 maximums and six boundaries. Skipper Suryakumar Yadav also registered his third fifty of the series, smashing 63 runs off 30 balls. Hardik Pandya played a brilliant cameo in the end, hitting 42 runs off 17 balls as the hosts set a 271-run target for the Kiwis.In response, the visitors bowled out for 225 runs in 19.4 overs. Finn Allen played a sensational knock, smashing 80 runs off 38 balls with the help of eight boundaries and six maximums. But the other Kiwi batters failed to deliver big performances as New Zealand fell 46 runs short of the target.

'The focus is on winning matches, not personal milestones': Kishan

Ishan Kishan, who replaced Shubman Gill in the squad for the 2026 T20 World Cup and New Zealand series, has delivered an impactful performance in the five-match series. He scored 215 runs in four matches at a strike rate of 231.18, smashing one century and a fifty.After winning the Player of the match award, Kishan talked about his knock in the final T20I against New Zealand, and said that his focus is on winning the match for the team."I think that’s the mindset of everyone in our team now. Even if you’re close to a milestone, it doesn’t really matter. If you start taking singles at that stage, you might feel later that you missed an opportunity to go big. So if the ball is there to hit, you have to go for it. The focus is on winning matches, not personal milestones," Kishan said in the post-match presentation.The left-hander batter further added that he has done well, but still needs to improve, and his focus is completely on the T20 World Cup."I still feel I’m not there yet. Yes, I’ve done well and I’m getting these awards, but my focus is firmly on the World Cup. That’s where the extra effort is needed. What’s important is carrying this form forward and continuing to contribute there," he added.The Men in Blue will take on South Africa in the T20 World Cup warm-up match on February 4, before opening their tournament campaign against the USA in Mumbai on February 7.

Clinical India pass final test before T20 World Cup with flying colours

Sumit Channa — Sat, 31 Jan 2026 22:40:00 +0530

New Delhi: In the tune-up to the T20 World Cup 2026, India beat New Zealand by 46 runs in the fifth and final T20I on Saturday to seal the series 4-1. Clinical India were right on the mark in all the departments as they passed the last test before the T20 World Cup 2026, which starts in a weeks time, with flying colours.In a high-scoring contest which saw as many as 496 runs being scored, New Zealand didn't prove that bad during the chase but the Men in Blue had the last laugh with a thumping win. Batting first, Ishan Kishan's maiden T20I century (103), skipper Suryakumar Yadav's record fifty (63) and brilliant effort from Hardik Pandya (42) and Abhishek Sharma (30) saw the hosts score their third-highest T20I total of 271/5 in the stipulated 20 overs.India's batting proved to be pitch perfect barring another failure encountered by local boy Sanju Samson (6 off 6) who's bad patch continued in his fifth consecutive game. Kiwi bowlers picked up five Indian wickets but it was not enough to stop the carnage at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram.

NZ come close but fall short

Chasing a huge target of 272, New Zealand (225) came close with efforts from Fin Allen (80), Rachin Ravindra (30) and Ish Sodhi (33) but it was not enough for them to cross the line. For India, Arshdeep Singh claimed his maiden fifer (5/51), though proving to be a bit expensive while Axar Patel claimed three important wickets to stop the Kiwis in a tough chase.Varun Chakaravarthy and Rinku Singh also claimed a wicket apiece. Skipper Suryakumar was named the Player of the Series while Ishan was named the Player of the Match.

A look at some of the records scripted during the match

Most sixes in a T20I41 Bulgaria vs Gibraltar Sofia 202536 Ind vs NZ Trivandrum 2026*35 WI vs SA Centurion 202334 WI vs Eng St George’s 2023Highest match aggregate in a T20I517 WI vs SA Centurion 2023496 Ind vs NZ Trivandrum 2026*489 WI vs Ind Lauderhill 2016Most expensive 5-fers in T20Is5/51 Arshdeep Singh vs NZ Trivandrum 20265/40 Alzarri Joseph vs SA Joburg 20235/39 Lungi Ngidi vs Eng Bristol 2022

Big blow to India's medal chances as PV Sindhu pulls out of Badminton Asia Team Championship

Sumit Channa — Sat, 31 Jan 2026 21:35:00 +0530

New Delhi: In a major blow to India's medal chances at the Badminton Asia Team Championships 2026, PV Sindhu has pulled out of the event beginning next week. Two-time Olympic medallist Sindhu has withdrawn from competition due to a slight niggle which will hamper her participation at the upcoming event. Sindhu, a former world champion, made a successful return to competition after a foot injury that kept her out from October last year but unfortunately due to a niggle, she will not be able to represent the country at the badminton event.'Sindhu has withdrawn from the Asia Team Championships due to slight niggle,' a source aware of the development told news agency PTI.

Sindhu's absence big blow to India

The 30-year-old star badminton player had earlier in the last year also withdrawn from the 2025 Badminton Asia Mixed Team Championships after sustaining a hamstring injury during a training camp in Guwahati. Sindhu's performance in the last year had not been up to the mark as she could not put up her best in the courts.Since her recent comebacks, she reached the semifinals of the Malaysia Open, exited in the first round of the India Open and made the quarterfinals of the Indonesia Masters. After this development, India's medal prospects at the event appear to be slim as there are not enough good competitors representing the country in event as Sindhu was.The continental event begins on February 3 in Qingdao and the Indian women had clinched gold at the 2024 edition in Malaysia, the country’s first medal in the women’s team competition. India have been placed in Group Y with Thailand and Myanmar.Meanwhile in absence of Sindhu, the singles responsibility will now rest on world junior championships silver medallist Tanvi Sharma, Unnati Hooda, Rakshita Sree Santhosh Ramraj and Malvika Bansod, while Commonwealth Games bronze medallists Gayatri Gopichand and Treesa Jolly will spearhead the doubles challenge. Priya Konjengbam, Shruti Mishra and Tanisha Crasto complete the squad.(With PTI inputs)

Suryakumar Yadav becomes third Indian batter after Rohit and Virat to achieve special T20I feat

Prince Thakur — Sat, 31 Jan 2026 20:45:00 +0530

New Delhi: India captain Suryakumar Yadav created history during the fifth T20I match against New Zealand at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram on Saturday, January 15. He smashed 63 runs off 30 balls in the final T20I against the Kiwis and became just the third Indian to score 3,000 T20I runs after Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.He also became the fastest batter to reach the milestone in terms of balls faced. UAE skipper Muhammad Waseem is second on the list, taking 1947 balls to achieve the same feat, while England’s Jos Buttler is third with 2068 balls.Former Australia captains Aaron Finch and David Warner are also in the list, completing 3000 runs in 2077 and 2113 balls, respectively. Team India's senior batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli achieved the milestone in 2149 and 2169 balls, respectively.

Rank	Player	Country	Balls Faced
1	Suryakumar Yadav	India	1,822
2	Muhammad Waseem	UAE	1,947
3	Jos Buttler	England	2,068
4	Aaron Finch	Australia	2,077
5	David Warner	Australia	2,113
6	Rohit Sharma	India	2,149
7	Virat Kohli	India	2,169

Suryakumar has scored 3030 runs in 104 T20I matches at an average of 36.95, smashing four centuries and 24 fifties with a top score of 117. He's only behind Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli on the list of most runs scored for India in the shortest format. Rohit has smashed 4231 runs in 159 matches, hitting five hundreds and 32 fifties, while Kohli scored 4188 runs in 125 games with the help of one ton and 38 half-centuries.Suryakumar also became the second-fastest Indian batter to achieve this milestone, after Kohli, who completed it in 81 innings. He missed the opportunity to join MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, and Rohit Sharma as the fourth Indian to score 1,000 runs in T20Is as skipper. Suryakumar was 73 runs short of the milestone before the start of the fifth T20I match and was dismissed for 63.

India set 272-run target for New Zealand in 5th T20I

The Men in Blue have posted 271/5 in 20 overs after opting to bat first in the fifth T20I. Sanju Samson failed to score runs again and was removed by Lockie Ferguson for 6. Ishan Kishan smashed his maiden T20I century, scoring 103 runs off 43 balls with the help of 10 maximums and six boundaries. Suryakumar also amassed 63 runs off 30 balls, while Hardik Pandya played a brilliant cameo in the end, smashing 42 runs off 17 balls as India set a massive target for the Kiwis.

Big Boost for South Africa as David Miller receives medical clearance for T20 World Cup 2026

Prince Thakur — Sat, 31 Jan 2026 20:33:00 +0530

New Delhi: South Africa's senior batter David Miller has been declared medically fit to play in the T20 World Cup 2026 after getting injured during the SA20. He suffered a groin injury and missed the Paarl Royals' last two matches. The middle-order batter was rested from the ongoing three-match T20I series against West Indies, but will depart with the rest of the squad to play in his sixth T20 World Cup.Miller is the most experienced player of South Africa's squad and a crucial batter in the middle order. He is most likely to play the role of finisher, batting after Quinton de Kock, Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton and Dewald Brevis. Jason Smith and Tristan Stubbs are the other two specialist batters in the Proteas squad.Miller is only on a white-ball contract with Cricket South Africa and might be aiming to play the home ODI World Cup in 2027. He delivered crucial performances for South Africa in the 2023 ODI World Cup campaign, smashing a century in the semi-final against Australia in Kolkata in 2023.He almost took South Africa to their maiden T20 World Cup title in Barbados in 2024, but was caught on the boundary with 16 runs required in the last over as the Proteas men suffered a seven-run defeat against India.

South Africa squad and schedule for T20 World Cup 2026

South Africa have already made two injury-forced changes to their squad with Tristan Stubbs and Ryan Rickelton replacing Tony de Zorzi and Donovan Ferreira. The team will leave for Mumbai on Sunday and play a warm-up match against India on Wednesday.They will face Canada in their first match of the T20 World Cup on February 9, followed by games against Afghanistan (Feb 11 in Ahmedabad), New Zealand (Feb 14 in Ahmedabad), and UAE (Feb 18 in Delhi).Squad: Aiden Markram (C), Corbin Bosch, Dewald Brevis, Quinton de Kock, Marco Jansen, George Linde, Keshav Maharaj, Kwena Maphaka, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Jason Smith, Tristan Stubbs.

Salman Agha, bowlers shine as Pakistan beat Australia in 2nd T20I to clinch series

Prince Thakur — Sat, 31 Jan 2026 19:18:00 +0530

New Delhi: Pakistan defeated Australia by 90 runs in the second T20I at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Saturday, January 30. Batting first, Pakistan scored 198/5 in 20 overs, registering their highest T20I against the Aussies. The hosts clinched the three-match T20I series 2-0. Salman Agha and Usman Khan hit half-centuries, while Abrar Ahmed and Shadab Khan picked up three wickets each to restrict Australia to 108/10 in 15.4 overs. This was Pakistan's first T20I series win against the Aussies since 2018.Defending the competitive target, Pakistan’s bowlers, led by spinners, bundled Australia out for just 108 in 15.4 overs. Cameron Green was the highest run-scorer for the visitors, amassing 35 runs off 20 balls, followed by Matthew Short, who made 27 runs off 23 deliveries.Apart from them, only captain Mitchell Marsh (18) and Xavier Bartlett (10) reached double figures. For Pakistan, Abrar Ahmed and Shadab Khan claimed three wickets each, while Usman Tariq took two. Saim Ayub and Mohammad Nawaz also picked up one wicket each.

Salman, Usman shine for Pakistan

Earlier, Pakistan got off to a shaky start after opting to bat first, losing Sahibzada Farhan for five runs in the second over. However, Agha quickly took control along with opener Saim Ayub. The duo stitched a 55-run partnership for the second wicket, with Agha dominating the stand, and Ayub played a brisk cameo before departing in the last over of the powerplay.The hosts then suffered another massive setback when Adam Zampa trapped Babar Azam lbw for 2 runs, putting pressure on the hosts at 76/3 in 7.1 overs. But Agha continued his counter-attack and changed the momentum towards Pakistan, forging a quick partnership with Shadab Khan.The Pakistan skipper completed his sixth T20I fifty in just 25 balls, eventually top-scoring with a blistering 76 runs off 40 deliveries, smashing eight boundaries and four maximums. Australia got some relief when Sean Abbott dismissed Agha in the 13th over.But, Usman Khan ensured Pakistan finished strongly, scoring his second T20I fifty with the help of four boundaries and two maximums. He also stitched a crucial 63-run partnership with Shadab, who made 28 runs off 20 balls to push Pakistan to 198. The third and final T20I of the series will be played on February 1 at the same venue.

Australian Open 2026 prize money: How much will Elena Rybakina take home after clinching maiden title?

Sumit Channa — Sat, 31 Jan 2026 17:26:00 +0530

New Delhi: It was a dream come true for Elena Rybakina as she lifted her maiden Australian Open women's singles title after stunning world number one Aryna Sabalenka in the final on Saturday. At the packed Rod Laver Arena, Rybakina kept her calm till the end and finally managed to avenge her 2023 loss to Sabalenka at the Australian Open with a 6-4, 4-6, 6-4 win.Rybakina clinched the opening set 6-4 but the world number one bounced back in the second claiming it with an identical score-line but the player from Kazakhstan bounced back in the third and deciding set claiming it 6-4 and winning her maiden crown at the season-opening Grand Slam. It was a second major title for Kazakhstan’s Rybakina, who won Wimbledon in 2022 and entered that final four years ago.

How much will Rybakina take home?

The total purse for the Australian Open 2026 prize pool is set at USD 75 million, or AUD 111.5 million. It has a 16 percent hike over 2025 edition's prize pool. The Australian Open 2026 has the second-highest prize purse in Grand Slam history, trailing only the US Open 2025.The winner of the Australian Open women's singles final Elena Rybakina will take home a staggering cash reward of $2.79 million (AUD 4.15 million), which is an increase of $600,000 from the last edition in 2025. Apart from this, she will also take 2,000 ranking points after Saturday’s triumph.

How much will the others earn?

Meanwhile, the runner-up of Australian Open women's singles Aryna Sabalenka will also get a massive amount of $1.45 million (AUD 2,150,000). In addition, the semifinalists of the women's singles, Jessica Pegula and Elina Svitolina will both earn $840,000 each for reaching the final four and Iga Swiatek, Coco Gauff, Amanda Anisimova and Iva Jovic, who were knocked out at the quarterfinal stage, will each take home $500,000.

Tilak Varma intensifies T20 World Cup preparations, trains hard with Mayank Yadav - WATCH

Prince Thakur — Sat, 31 Jan 2026 15:40:00 +0530

New Delhi: Tilak Varma is training hard for the 2026 T20 World Cup at the BCCI's Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru. The Men in Blue will open their tournament campaign against the USA in Mumbai on February 7. A video of Tilak's batting went viral on social media, in which the left-hander is seen taking on Mayank Yadav.The video shows the intensity of Tilak's sessions and his urgency to return to the Indian team ahead of the World Cup after injury. Mayank, another exciting fast bowling prospect currently training at the CoE, is seen bowling at full tilt to Tilak.Tilak is working on his recovery after undergoing abdominal surgery earlier this month, which forced him to miss India’s five-match T20I series against New Zealand, but the middle-order batter's rehabilitation has progressed steadily.

According to reports, the left-handed batter is expected to join the Indian squad in Mumbai on February 3, just ahead of their T20 World Cup warm-up match against South Africa at the DY Patil Sports Academy in Navi Mumbai on February 4. The reports also suggested that pacer Mayank Yadav and batter Riyan Parag are also on the verge of receiving fitness clearance from the BCCI's CoE.Tilak has already shown his ability to bat under pressure, scoring an unbeaten 69 runs against Pakistan in the 2025 Asia Cup Final. With the Men in Blue aiming to defend their T20 World Cup title, Tilak's form and fitness will be crucial for the Indian team.

India's T20 World Cup 2026 schedule

India have been placed in Group A alongside the USA, Netherlands, Pakistan and Namibia. The Men in Blue will begin their campaign on Saturday, February 7, taking on the USA at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.After that, they will face Namibia in Delhi on February 12, and then square off against arch-rivals Pakistan in Colombo on February 15. Suryakumar Yadav and Co. will take on the Netherlands in their final group-stage match at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Novak Djokovic vs Carlos Alcaraz: Rafael Nadal reveals who he will support in Australian Open 2026 final

Abhishek Kumar — Sat, 31 Jan 2026 15:08:00 +0530

Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz will be eyeing history when they lock horns in the men's singles final of the Australian Open 2026 on Sunday, February 01. While Djokovic will be aiming to lift an elusive 25th Grand Slam and a record-extending 11th Australian Open title, Alcaraz will be looking to complete a Career Grand Slam.The Spaniard, who is the current world no.1, has won the other three Grand Slams at least once in his career but is yet to lift his maiden Australian Open title. At 22, Alcaraz will become the youngest man to complete a career Grand Slam, surpassing the legendary Rafael Nadal, who achieved the feat at 24.Djokovic, who is already the most successful player in men's tennis history with 24 Grand Slam titles under his belt, will surpass Margaret Court to become the most successful player in history across all eras with a triumph at the Australian Open 2026. The Serbian ace will also become the oldest Australian Open champion at 38 if he manages to beat Alcaraz in the final on Sunday.Ahead of the mouth-watering final between two of the best players in world tennis at present, the legendary Rafael Nadal revealed who he would be rooting for in the summit clash. Nadal shared an epic rivalry with the legendary Roger Federer and Djokovic throughout his career.The 22-time Grand Slam champion wished Djokovic the best, lauding him for competing at the highest level despite being at the fag end of his career. However, he insisted he will support his Spanish compatriot Alcaraz, with whom he shared the court in doubles matches towards the end of his career.“In some way, with Novak we had an amazing story, with all those years competing for the most important things, and I wish him all the very best, but of course Carlos is from my country, I have a good relationship with him, we shared the Olympic Games together, we shared the Spanish team," Nadal told ABC Sport in Australia.“And I mean, if Novak wins, I will be happy for him, because in some ways, quite spectacular what he’s doing at this stage of his career, so I will be happy. It will not be a drama for me, but if I have to support someone, I mean, I have to support I feel to Carlos," he added.

Novak Djokovic continues to defy age

At 38, Djokovic became the oldest man to reach the Australian Open final after beating world no.2 Jannik Sinner in a draining semi-final on Friday. A lot was said about Djokovic's fitness and preparedness after he survived a major scare against Lorenzo Musetti in his semi-final clash.Musetti was leading by two sets when he was forced to retire due to an injury in the third set, allowing Djokovic to move to the semi-finals. The Serbian turned up in the semi-final to get the better of defending champion Sinner, proving that age is just a number for him.The 24-time Grand Slam champion hit back at his critics after his victory, stating that he never stopped believing in himself despite the experts wanting him to retire. The 38-year-old will now look to create history when he takes on Alcaraz in the all-important final at the Rod Laver Arena on Sunday.

Pat Cummins ruled out, no Steve Smith as Australia announce squad for T20 World Cup 2026

Abhishek Kumar — Sat, 31 Jan 2026 13:58:00 +0530

Australia confirmed a huge injury blow as they announced their squad for the T20 World Cup 2026 on Saturday, January 31. Aussie selectors confirmed that pacer Pat Cummins was not picked as he has been ruled out of the tournament due to a persistent back injury. Mitchell Marsh will lead Australia in the upcoming showpiece event, which gets underway on February 07.Cummins has been dealing with a recurring back injury, which also saw him miss four out of the five Tests in the Ashes 2025-26 against England at home. The Aussie skipper played only one Test against the visitors before being withdrawn from the squad. Australia have replaced Cummins with left-arm pacer Ben Dwarshuis in the T20 World Cup squad."With Pat needing more time to recover from his back injury, Ben is a ready replacement who offers a left arm pace option as well as dynamic fielding and late order hitting. We believe his ability to swing the ball at good pace along with clever variations will be well suited to the conditions we expect and overall structure of the squad," said Australia selector Tony Dodemaide on Cummins' exclusion.Australia have also left out senior batter Steve Smith from the squad, indicating that his time in T20Is might be over despite his heroics in the Big Bash League. In Cummins' absence, the experienced Josh Hazlewood will lead Australia's pace attack alongside Nathan Ellis, Xavier Bartlett and Dwarshuis, among others.Australia have also picked several all-rounders in their team to bolster their batting and bowling depth. Senior all-rounders Marcus Stoinis and Glenn Maxwell are part of the 15-man squad along with the likes of Cameron Green, Tim David and Cooper Connolly. However, the Aussie selectors have left out big-hitting all-rounder Matt Short from the squad.Short was named in Australia's initial squad for the tournament, however, he has been replaced by Matt Renshaw in the final squad. Renshaw has been added to bolster Australia's middle order, as they already have enough options in the top order.

Australia's squad for T20 World Cup 2026:

Mitchell Marsh (c), Xavier Bartlett, Cooper Connolly, Tim David, Ben Dwarshuis, Cameron Green, Nathan Ellis, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matt Kuhnemann, Glenn Maxwell, Matt Renshaw, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa.With Short dropped from the squad, Travis Head is likely to open with skipper Marsh in the T20 World Cup 2026. The likes of Josh Inglis, Green and Maxwell add further firepower to Australia's top order. The 2021 champions have also picked an additional spinner in Matt Kuhnemann, keeping the conditions in mind in India and Sri Lanka.Australia are currently taking on Pakistan in a three-match T20I series, their final international assignment before the T20 World Cup 2026 next week. Australia are in Group B in the T20 World Cup 2026 alongside Zimbabwe, Sri Lanka, Oman and Ireland. Australia will open their campaign against Ireland in Colombo on February 11.

India vs New Zealand 5th T20I: Live Streaming, head-to-head, pitch and weather report

Abhishek Kumar — Sat, 31 Jan 2026 09:05:00 +0530

India will lock horns with New Zealand in the final fifth T20I of the ongoing five-match series at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram on Saturday, January 31. After three wins in a row in the first three games, India suffered a 50-run defeat in the last game following an experiment in the team combination.India went into the 4th T20I in Vizag with a batter short and ended up paying the price as they succumbed to their first defeat in the five-match rubber. However, having already wrapped up the series with an unassailable lead, the hosts will not be too worried heading into their final game before the T20 World Cup 2026 gets underway next week.The hosts are likely to play a full-strength XI in the 5th T20I in Thiruvananthapuram to test their combination ahead of the start of the showpiece event. Despite Tilak Varma and Washington Sundar not being available in the series, it is a chance for India to test the majority of their playing XI, which might take the field in their T20 World Cup opener against USA on February 07.The spotlight will firmly be on Sanju Samson at his home ground. The opener suffered his fourth straight failure in the series after getting dismissed cheaply on 24 in the 4th T20I. He has managed only 40 runs in the four innings in the series so far and will be hoping to get back among the runs ahead of the T20 World Cup.Having rested frontline spinner Varun Chakaravarthy in the last two games, India might bring him back in the XI to give him game time. Ishan Kishan might also return at no.3 after he was left out of the playing XI in place of pacer Arshdeep Singh in the last game. Kishan has done well in the absence of Tilak Varma and is staking a claim for a permanent spot in the XI.

India vs New Zealand - Head-to-head record in T20Is

India and New Zealand have locked horns in 29 matches in T20Is. India hold an edge over the Kiwis with 17 victories under their belt, including two Super Over wins. One match between the two teams ended in a tie.

India vs New Zealand 5th T20I, Thiruvananthapuram weather report:

As per Accuweather, the weather in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, is expected to remain pleasant throughout the day. The forecast is promising with no chances of rain playing spoilsport during the contest.

India vs New Zealand 5th T20I, Greenfield Stadium pitch report:

The pitch at the Greenfield International Stadium is expected to assist the batters. The wicket is likely to be on the flatter side and with small dimensions of the ground, we might be in for a run fest at the venue on Saturday.

India vs New Zealand 5th T20I live streaming details:

The 5th T20I between India and New Zealand will get underway at 7:30 PM IST on Saturday, January 31. The toss will take place at 7 PM IST. The live telcast of the match will be available on the Star Sports Network in India. Fans can live stream the match on the JioHotstar app and the website.

WPL 2026: Harmanpreet Kaur's knock in vain as Gujarat Giants beat Mumbai Indians to qualify for Eliminator

Prince Thakur — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 23:04:00 +0530

New Delhi: Gujarat Giants defeated Mumbai Indians by 11 runs to qualify for the Eliminator of the Women's Premier League (WPL) 2026 at the BCA Stadium in Kotambi on Friday, January 30. They also registered their maiden victory against MI in the history of the WPL.Gardner smashed 46 runs off 28 balls, and Wareham also scored 44 runs from 26 balls as the pair forged a crucial 71-run partnership to rescue the Giants from a mid-innings slump and help them to post 167/4 after opting to bat.MI's fate will be decided on Sunday when Delhi Capitals will face UP Warriorz in the last league match. A victory for Delhi will confirm their Eliminator spot, while a win for the UP Warriorz will help Mumbai. The Warriorz have the worst net run rate in the league, but still have an outside chance to qualify if they manage to register a big win. Royal Challengers Bengaluru have already sealed a direct spot in the final after finishing in the first position with six victories from eight matches.

Harmanpreet Kaur's knock in vain

Chasing a 168-run target on a tricky pitch proved difficult for the defending champions, who were restricted to 156/7 in 20 overs. Skipper Harmanpreet Kaur played a sensational knock and scored an unbeaten 82 runs off 48 balls with the help of eight boundaries and four maximums.Mumbai got off to a poor start as Sophie Devine cleaned up Hayley Matthews in her opening over and then dismissed Nat Sciver-Brunt for just 2 runs as Anushka Sharma took a fine catch near the deep square-leg boundary.Sajeevan Sajana smashed Kashvee Gautam over deep midwicket and through point, but the young seamer dismissed her in the final ball of the over. Wareham stopped the run-scoring in the middle overs, dismissing Amelia Kerr for 20 and Sanskriti Gupta for a duck. Gardner also picked up one wicket in three overs.The MI needed 37 runs off the last two overs, with skipper Harmanpreet well set, but the defending champions fell short. She smacked Gardner for two maximums in the last over, but they suffered their first-ever defeat against Gujarat.Earlier, the Giants looked in trouble and lost two set batters, Anushka Sharma for 33 runs and Sophie Devine for 25, in quick succession after opting to bat first. Amelia Kerr and Shabnim Ismail bowled brilliantly as the run-rate dipped sharply.With momentum slipping away for the Giants, skipper Ashleigh took on Hayley Matthews and smashed her for 19 runs. She then played attacking shots against Shabnim, hitting four boundaries in a 17-run over as GG set a 168-run target, which proved challenging for MI.

T20 World Cup 2026: ICC announces list of match officials, umpires for group stage

Sumit Channa — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 21:22:00 +0530

New Delhi: The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Friday announced a list of the match officials and umpires for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026. The showpiece T20 spectacle will start on February 7 in India and Sri Lanka and will witness 20 teams participating to win the coveted trophy.Meanwhile, the ICC on its official website announced that a total of 24 officials will serve as on-field umpires while six will be serving as the match referees during the group stage of the ICC men's T20 World Cup. Officials for the Super Eight and knockout stages will be announced in due course of time. Sri Lanka's Kumar Dharmasena and Wayne Knights will stand as the on-field umpires for the opening match between Pakistan and the Netherlands at the Sinhalese Sports Club ground in Colombo. The game will mark Knights’ first appearance at a T20 World Cup, while Dharmasena continues to build on his extensive tournament experience.Dharmasena has a lot of experience as he has officiated in 37 matches at the showpiece event till now, including the finals in 2016 and 2022. Knights will complete a significant milestone during the Group A clash, officiating his 50th T20 International as an on-field umpire.

For defending champion India's opening match against the USA later on 7 February in Mumbai, Paul Reiffel and Rod Tucker have been appointed as the on-field umpires.Match Officials at T20 World Cup 2026

Match Referees

Dean Cosker, David Gilbert, Ranjan Madugalle, Andrew Pycroft, Richie Richardson, Javagal Srinath.

Umpires

Roland Black, Chris Brown, Kumar Dharmasena, Chris Gaffaney, Adrian Holdstock, Richard Illingworth, Richard Kettleborough, Wayne Knights, Donovan Koch, Jayaraman Madanagopal, Nitin Menon, Sam Nogajski, KNA Padmanabhan, Allahuddien Paleker, Ahsan Raza, Leslie Reifer, Paul Reiffel, Langton Rusere, Sharfuddoula Ibne Shahid, Gazi Sohel, Rod Tucker, Alex Wharf, Raveendra Wimalasiri, Asif Yaqoob.

'I am lost for words': Djokovic after battling past Sinner to set up Australian Open final vs Alcaraz

Prince Thakur — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 20:47:00 +0530

New Delhi: Novak Djokovic stunned Jannik Sinner in a five-set classic to become the oldest man to qualify for the Australian Open final at the Rod Laver Arena on Friday, January 30.Just four months before his 39th birthday, the Serbian showed great determination and grit to beat the Italian 3-6, 6-3, 4-6, 6-4, 6-4 in an epic five-set semifinal. After the match, Djokovic said Sinner won the last five matches against him and had his mobile number, but he changed it tonight."I can’t speak right now. It’s surreal to have played for so long and at such a high level. I was reminiscing in 2012 when I played Rafa (Nadal) in the final, that was six hours almost," Djokovic said on court.The Serbian further said that the level of intensity and quality was high against Sinner, and that was the only way to have a chance to win. He also said that Sinner pushed him to the limit and deserves applause for his performance."He won the last five matches against me, he had my mobile number, so I had to change my number tonight. Jokes aside I said at the net: 'Thanks for allowing me at least one'. Tremendous respect, an incredible player," Djokovic added.

'I said it would be difficult to beat Sinner and Alcaraz, but not impossible'

Djokovic will face world number one Carlos Alcaraz in Sunday's Australian Open final. The Spaniard defeated Alexander Zverev in the longest Australian Open semi-final."I have to come back and fight the no. 1 in the world. I hope I have enough gas left to go toe-to-toe against him," the Serbian said.Eighteen years after his maiden Australian Open crown, Djokovic will aim for a record-extending 11th Melbourne title against Alcaraz and the unmatched 25th Grand Slam title.He needed incredible luck to qualify for the semi-finals, with his quarter-final opponent, Lorenzo Musetti, retiring injured after winning the first two sets. Djokovic also had a walkover in the fourth round, when Jakub Mensik withdrew.But, Djokovic reached in the final with hard work and determination against Sinner, a player who had defeated him in their previous five matches.

Australian Open 2026: Zverev fumes over Alcaraz's timeout after thrilling five-set semifinal

Prince Thakur — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 19:07:00 +0530

New Delhi: Alexander Zverev slammed officials for allowing Carlos Alcaraz a medical timeout for a leg issue after suffering a defeat in an epic five-setter against the Spaniard in the Australian Open's longest semi-final on Friday, January 30.The World No.1 Alcaraz was struggling to move in the third set at 4-4 and was allowed treatment on his right thigh after the change of ends, leaving the German angry. After the match, Alcaraz said that he was worried that he may have strained an adductor muscle, but Zverev remained adamant that the Spaniard's problem was cramp, which is not in the rules for medical timeouts.Alcaraz struggled and dropped the next two sets, but was back running in full flow during the fifth to register a stunning 6-4, 7-6(5), 6-7(3), 6-7(4), 7-5 victory against Zverev in five hours and 27 minutes."Yeah, I mean, he was cramping, so normally you can't take a medical time-out for cramping. What can I do? It's not my decision. I didn't like it, but it's not my decision," Zverev said at his post-match press conference.Zverev also lashed out on court at a match supervisor as the Spaniard underwent treatment. "I just said it was bullshit, basically," he said later of the exchange. The German further added that Alcaraz took like an hour and a half off, where he was struggling to move at all, and he should have used that advantage in a better way."Maybe I should have won the games and won the sets a bit quicker. Then moving into the fifth, maybe he wouldn't have had so much time to recover. But the fifth set, the way he was moving, was incredible again," he added.

Alcaraz defends controversial time-out

Carlos Alcaraz said he did not know if he was cramping or had suffered an injury when a medical timeout was called. The Spaniard further added that he started to feel the pain in the right adductor, and that's why he called the physio."I just called the physio because in that moment, the left leg was good. In that moment, I just talked to the physio. I said, okay, I just went to run to the forehand side, and I started to feel like the right adductor. He decided to take the medical timeout, and he did it," Alcaraz added.

Champions League playoffs: Real Madrid set for Benfica rematch, Newcastle to face Qarabag

Prince Thakur — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 18:01:00 +0530

New Delhi: Real Madrid will take on Benfica in an instant rematch in the UEFA Champions League (UCL) playoffs after the draw took place on Friday, January 30. The Spanish club lost against Jose Mourinho’s side 4-2, when their goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin scored late in injury time to send them through, and set to host the first leg in Lisbon.Newcastle United will travel 2,500-mile to Azerbaijan to face Qarabag in the first leg. The Premier League side will feel confident after a brilliant performance against defending champions Paris Saint-Germain, holding them to a 1-1 draw at Parc des Princes on Wednesday.PSG, who are at the top of Ligue 1, will face 10th-placed Monaco in the UCL playoffs. Monaco will host the first leg and will look to beat their domestic opponent after registering a 1-0 league victory last time the two clubs met on 29 November.Bodø/Glimt will square off against Italy's Inter Milan in the first leg. The Norwegian club delivered a sensational performance in the league phase, stunning Manchester City and Atlético Madrid in their last two games. Galatasaray set to face Juventus, while Club Brugge will take on Atlético, and Borussia Dortmund will play against Atalanta. Olympiakos will face Bayer Leverkusen.Monaco vs PSGBenfica vs Real MadridQarabag vs NewcastleGalatasaray vs JuventusBorussia Dortmund vs AtalantaClub Brugge vs Atletico MadridBodø/Glimt vs InterOlympiacos vs Bayer Leverkusen

Dates for Champions League playoff games

The first leg of the playoffs will be played on 17 February and 18 February, and the second leg on 24 and 25 February. The clubs that have already qualified for the round of 16 will wait to discover their potential opposition.Arsenal, who finished at the top of the league phase table, will take on either the winner of the Olympiakos versus Leverkusen match or whoever qualifies between Borussia Dortmund and Atalanta. For Manchester City, a clash against Real Madrid, Benfica, Inter Milan or Bodø/Glimt awaits.Liverpool will face the winners of Galatasaray versus Juventus or Club Brugge versus Atlético. Chelsea could be up against Newcastle if they managed to beat Qarabag, with PSG or Monaco the alternative opponents. Sporting are among the potential opposition for Benfica if they stun Real Madrid again.

Amid T20 World Cup participation drama, Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif gets brutally trolled on social media

Sumit Channa — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 16:50:00 +0530

New Delhi: As per Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Mohsin Naqvi's statement, Friday, January 30, is the first deadline for the side to announce their confirmation regarding the participation in the T20 World Cup 2026. The entire cricketing world has been left on the edge regarding the decision as to whether the side will participate in the marquee event or not.Though there are reports circulating on social media that the tickets for the Pakistan contingent have been finalised and the team is about to travel to Colombo for the showpiece spectacle but an official word is still awaited. Last week, a meeting took place between Naqvi and Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif where the PM insisted in maintaining good relations with the ICC.

Pakistan PM gets trolled

Amid all this drama, Pakistan PM Sharif has been brutally trolled on social media for his post for the national team after their beat Australia in the first T20I. Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra trolled the PM after he called a 20-run victory electrifying.

Earlier, Iceland Cricket trolled Pakistan twice over their drama of pulling out from the marquee event saying that they are ready to replace them and fly to Colombo once they pull out of the event. Meanwhile during the same course of time, many Indian cricketers have said that Pakistan lack of guts of calling it quits from this edition as they cannot afford it.In the Pakistan faction, former players are urging the PCB to not boycott the event as it will not prove good as far as their relations with the global governing body are concerned. Pakistan has an agreement with the ICC and BCCI that they will play all their big ICC events that are staged in India at a neutral venue and despite this, they have started the drama of WC boycott.

T20 World Cup: Big boost for India as Washington Sundar expected to join the team soon - Report

Sumit Channa — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 16:09:00 +0530

New Delhi: In a major boost for India, all-rounder Washington Sundar is expected to join the team for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026. The showpiece spectacle, which has been in news recently, starts on February 7 in India and Sri Lanka.As per a report in the Indian Express, Sundar, who started practicing batting a few days ago at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru, will start bowling in the next couple of days which comes as good news for Team India. The 26-year-old player's recovery is happening on the expected lines and it seems that he will soon join the Indian national team, the report further mentions.Although, the star Indian all-rounder has a slight fracture in his rib area but as per reports, it is not a big deal and the healing is taking place on expected lines. Sundar's inclusion in Team India for the marquee event will be a big boost as the all-rounder would play in the tournament in the middle stages, if not from the beginning.

Tilak Varma recovering on expected lines

In addition, another injury concern for Team India, lethal batter Tilak Varma, who is also under rehabilitation is also recovering fast and is expected to join the side in Mumbai ahead of the T20 World Cup warm-up games.India begin their campaign on February 7 against the United States of America while play their next Group A match against Namibia on February 12 before travelling to Colombo for the high-octane clash against traditional rivals Pakistan on February 15.The T20 World Cup was in news recently over the doubtful participation of Bangladesh after their citied security concerns in Indian keeping in view the current diplomatic issues between the two nations. Bangladesh finally got replaced by Scotland in the showpiece event and as soon as this happened, Pakistan started off with their drama of not playing the event in solidarity with Bangladesh's exclusion.

Uganda ready to replace Pakistan as T20 World Cup pullout drama nears its end

Sparsh Vyas — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 12:11:00 +0530

Uganda joined the trolling bandwagon with a cheeky social media post on Pakistan's T20 World Cup participation theatrics, offering to replace the Asian country in case of a pullout. After Iceland Cricket, Uganda Cricket Association becomes the latest associate nation to troll Pakistan on social media over the drama surrounding their participation in the marquee event starting in India and Sri Lanka on February 07.Pakistan has threatened to pull out of the T20 World Cup in solidarity with Bangladesh, who were removed from the tournament after failing to confirm their participation for their league matches in India.PCB wrote a letter to the International Cricket Council (ICC) expressing their displeasure over the global body's handling of the issue, and later set a deadline for themselves to announce their decision on playing the mega-event.However, PCB Chief Mohsin Naqvi's threats seem to be hollow as reports have emerged that the Pakistan cricket team's tickets have been booked and the contingent is set to fly to Colombo on Monday.Pouncing on the opportunity, Uganda Cricket addressed the ICC in a social media post and confirmed their availability for the marquee event in case the spot falls vacant after Pakistan's potential withdrawal.The post read:"Dear @ICC,If a T20 World Cup seat opens, Uganda is ready - packed and padded.Passports warm (not ice). No bakers leaving ovens or ships U-turning.Heat, noise, pressure? We’ll bring the bold kit.Yours, Ready when you are"

Uganda responds after Iceland Cricket's hilarious post

Uganda shared a post after Iceland Cricket announced their unavailability to replace Pakistan in the T20 World Cup via a cheeky statement.Uganda made a maiden appearance in the T20 World Cup 2024 in the Caribbean and the USA.Despite all their matches being scheduled in Sri Lanka under the hybrid model agreement, Pakistan remain undecided over their participation in the T20 World Cup. PCB chairman Naqvi is set to confirm a final decision on the team's participation today (Friday). Pakistan's drama began when Bangladesh were booted out over absurd claims of security concerns in India and was replaced by Scotland.

De Kock blows West Indies away with 43-ball ton as South Africa seal T20I series with stunning chase

Sparsh Vyas — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 08:20:00 +0530

Quinton de Kock came back to haunt the West Indies with an astonishing century as South Africa claimed their first win under head coach Shukri Conrad, pulling off an audacious run chase at SuperSport Park, Centurion.Playing his first T20I at home in three years and his first on home soil since reversing his retirement, De Kock scored his second century in this format, his second in Centurion, and his second against the West Indies.The explosive left-handed opener reached his hundred off 43 balls, and finished on 115 off 49 balls, with 10 sixes and six fours. During his whirlwind knock, De Kock faced just eight dot balls as South Africa mounted a stunning run chase.The home side chased down a mammoth 222-run target with ease in just 17.3 overs and seven wickets to spare to clinch the series 2-0 with one game to go.

Deja Vu for West Indies as De Kock marks home return with stunning ton

De Kock reached the three-figure mark in 43 balls, the same number as when he scored a hundred against the West Indies in Pretoria in 2023 in South Africa's chase of 259.The Proteas opener showed his full range against a hapless West Indies bowling attack and was dismissed in the 15th over when the home side was just 33 runs away from the win. His sensational knock ended when he skied a catch off spinner Akeal Hosein while attempting for his third six in a row.The hosts' chase was built on a remarkable 162-run partnership off 71 balls between De Kock and fellow left-hander Ryan Rickelton (77 runs from 36 balls).Earlier, West Indies, after being put into bat, posted a strong total of 221 for 4 in 20 overs, courtesy of a superb second-wicket partnership of 126 between Shimron Hetmyer (75 from 42) and Brandon King (49 from 30). Sherfane Rutherford provided a much-needed late flourish with a 24-ball 57 as West Indies scored 76 off thelast five overs.However, the visitors scored just 27 runs for the loss of three wickets in the five overs between the 12th and the 16th, and in the end, it was this phase that cost West Indies the match and the series. Spinner Keshav Maharaj (4/22 in 4 overs) was key to halting West Indies' momentum.The third and final T20I will be played on January 31 in Johannesburg.

Jofra Archer returns from injury as England announce playing XI for 1st T20I vs Sri Lanka

Prince Thakur — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 23:35:00 +0530

New Delhi: Jofra Archer is named in England's playing XI for the first T20I against Sri Lanka, which will be played at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium on Friday, January 30. The fast bowler was not originally included in the two white-ball squads to tour Sri Lanka after sustaining a side strain during the Ashes, but was selected for the 2026 T20 World Cup, which will begin in India and Sri Lanka on February 7.He made a surprise return to England's playing XI after joining the team in Colombo during the ODI series to continue his preparations for the upcoming T20 World Cup. He took part in training on Thursday night in Pallekele and was declared fit to play the first T20I."Pace bowler Jofra Archer has been included after making a full recovery from the side strain that brought his Ashes campaign to an early end late last year," the ECB said in a statement.Archer's return is a massive boost for the Three Lions, and the pacer will also get some game time before England's T20 World Cup opener against Nepal in Mumbai on February 8. Adil Rashid is the only bowler who has picked up more T20I wickets for England than Archer in the last two years.Ben Duckett is not included in the playing XI for the first T20I and was also not considered for selection after hurting his right finger while fielding in the last ODI match against Sri Lanka on Tuesday. Tom Banton will bat at four, with Jacob Bethell slotted at three. Phil Salt, who was not part of the ODI setup, will open the innings with Jos Buttler.Speaking before the news of Archer’s inclusion, Salt praised the Indian teamand said that they are "far and away the strongest side" at the upcoming World Cup."I think the [Indian Premier League] is probably a massive part of it. They obviously had their turning of the corner after we beat them in Adelaide in the 2022 World Cup, probably a combination of all those things. They’re so dangerous with so much strength and depth. You need your luck at the right time in tournament cricket – everyone’s going to need a bit to beat them," Salt said.

England's playing XI for 1st T20I against Sri Lanka

Phil Salt, Jos Buttler (wk), Jacob Bethell, Tom Banton, Harry Brook (c), Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Liam Dawson, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid

Grace Harris, Nadine de Klerk take RCB into WPL 2026 final

Sumit Channa — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 22:16:00 +0530

New Delhi: An all-round effort from Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) saw the franchise book the final berth in the Women's Premier League 2026 after beating UP Warriorz convincingly. In their last league game on Thursday in Vadodara, RCB produced a brilliant all-round show to dispatch the Warriorz by 8 wickets and book the final spot.Chasing a modest score of 144, after the Warriorz scored 143/8 in the stipulated 20 overs, RCB raced to a sensational victory in just 13.1 overs with Grace Harris leading the show with the bat after Nadine de Klerk's brilliant bowling spell. Harris hammered the UP bowlers all across the stadium smashing 75 runs off just 37 balls which included 13 boundaries and 2 massive sixes.After her dismissal, skipper Smriti Mandhana continued from where she had left scoring an unbeaten half-century to see the side home comfortably. Mandhana played a blistering knock of 54 runs off just 27 balls studded with 8 boundaries and 2 big sixes and Georgia Voll also contributed with 16 runs towards the end. Shikha Pandey and Asha Sobhana were the lone wicket-takers claiming one scalp each.

De Klerk bowls magical spell

Earlier in the first innings, De Klerk registered brilliant figures of 4/22 in her four-over spell to restrict the opponents to a below-par total. Apart from her lethal spell, Harris also contributed in the innings with two wickets while Lauren bell and Shreyanka Patil also picked up a wicket each. For the Warriorz, Deepti Sharma top-scored with 55 runs off just 43 balls while skipper Meg Lanning contributed 41 off just 30 deliveries at the top. Rest of the batters in the team failed to score some runs which was the reason why the team fell short off a good score.RCB also scripted few records en route the victory which gave them a final spot.

Most league stage wins in a WPL season

6 - DC in 20236 - MI in 20236 - DC in 20246 - RCB in 2026

Winning with most balls to spare for RCB

47 vs UPW, DY Patil, 2026 (by 9 wkts)45 vs GG, Bengaluru, 2024 (by 8 wkts)41 vs UPW, Vadodara, 2026 (by 8 wkts)*

Pakistan end 7-year long T20I losing streak against Australia with series-opening win

Sparsh Vyas — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 20:31:00 +0530

New Delhi: Pakistan produced a clinical performance to register a commanding 22-run win over Australia in the opening match of the three-T20I series in Lahore's Gadaffi Stadium on Thursday.In the final tune-up for the upcoming T20 World Cup, Australia are visiting Pakistan for a short T20I assignment and, judging by their performance in the first game have a lot of work to do to sharpen up for the marquee event, starting in India and Sri Lanka on February 7.Chasing a gettable target of 169, Australia kept losing wickets at regular intervals and were eventually restricted to 146 for 8 in 20 overs. In a star-studded batting line-up, no. 9 batter Xavier Bartlett finished as the second-highest scorer with 34* while all-rounder Cameron Green was the top-scorer with 36. Travis Head (23) and Matt Renshaw (15) both got starts but failed to carry on as Pakistan continued to chip away with wickets and never allowed the Australian innings to gain momentum.The victory in Lahore also broke Pakistan's seven-game losing streak against the Aussies that lasted seven years.

Economical Abrar, all-round Ayub dismantle Australia

Abrar Ahmed and Saim Ayub picked up two wickets each, with the former impressing the most after conceding just 10 runs in his quota of four overs.Ayub, meanwhile, backed up his 40 with the bat with a crucial bowling spell.Earlier, Pakistan posted a decent 168 for 8, thanks to useful contributions from Ayub and the skipper, Salman Agha (39), after opting to bat against an Australian side, which looked extremely rusty and lacklustre in both innings.The visitors were sloppy in the field, conceding a whopping 17 extras, including 12 wides, to aid Pakistan's cause.Western Australian quick Mahli Beardman impressed on his debut with a two-wicket haul, but the star of the show was Adam Zampa. The seasoned leg-spinner returned with excellent figures of 4 for 24 in 4 overs, including crucial wickets of Babar Azam (24), Agha and Ayub.The second match will be played at the same venue on Saturday, followed by the final T20I on Sunday. After the series' conclusion, both teams are reportedly expected to depart for Sri Lanka to participate in the T20 World Cup.

Pakistan lack courage to boycott T20 World Cup, says former Indian cricketer

Sumit Channa — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 20:10:00 +0530

New Delhi: Former India cricketer and Test specialist Ajinkya Rahane has issued a bold statement against Pakistan saying that they lack the courage to boycott the T20 World Cup 2026. The showpiece T20 spectacle starts on February 7 in India and Sri Lanka and after the ICC replaced Bangladesh with Scotland, Pakistan started off with their drama of pulling out of the event in solidarity with Bangladesh.As per a latest report in news agency PTI on Thursday, the tickets for the entire Pakistan contingent have been finalised and the side is set to fly to the island nation for the global ICC spectacle. An official confirmation is just what is required with the PCB coming out with the final decision by this weekend after a long delay.Meanwhile, in an interaction with Cricbuzz, Rahane said that he believed the Pakistani side will not be able to take a courageous decision of boycotting the T20 spectacle next month. The former batter also looked sure that the Men in Green will travel to the island nation for the World Cup.

Pakistan don't have guts to boycott WC: Rahane

'I don't think they can do that. I don't think they have, am I allowed to say, guts? Yeah, I don't think they can do that. They are going to come,' Rahane said. Pakistan are set to play all of their matches at two Sri Lankan venues - Colombo and Pallekele - after an agreement with the ICC and the BCCI in December 2024, under which both boards agreed not to play in each other’s countries during ICC events.PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi recently held a meeting with Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and revealed that a final call regarding their participation would be taken maximum by February 2. Pakistan are placed in Group A, alongside the USA, India, Namibia and the Netherlands. They will take on arch-rivals India in the highly anticipated clash on February 15 in Colombo.

Pakistan mocked again in Iceland Cricket's hilarious letter to ICC

Sparsh Vyas — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 17:21:00 +0530

Iceland cricket is leaving no stone unturned to troll Pakistan. Known for its dry humour, Iceland Cricket has roasted the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) with a couple of hilarious posts on social media, targeting the Pakistan cricket team over their T20 World Cup boycott theatrics. A day after taking a dig at Pakistan by sharing a hilarious post of being ready to replace Pakistan at the T20 World Cup, the Iceland Cricket were at it again on Thursday with another cheeky post.In the latest post, Iceland Cricket trolled Pakistan by writing a letter to the ICC, seemingly mocking Pakistan's letter, which they wrote to the global cricket body in support of Bangladesh, who were expelled from the tournament recently.

Iceland Cricket on fire as Pakistan trolled again

In the letter, Iceland Cricket informed the ICC that even if Pakistan boycott the tournament now, they will not be able to replace them as it is too late for them to get their squad ready for the marquee event.Here's the full content of the hilarious letter:Dear @ICC,"It is with a heavy heart that we now announce our unavailability to replace Pakistan in the upcoming T20 World Cup. Regardless of whether they now withdraw, the short timescales ensure it is impossible for our squad to prepare in the professional manner necessary to compete effectively in this global cricketing spectacle. We are not like Scotland and able to turn up on a whim, with no kit sponsor."Our players are from all walks of life and cannot simply drop their occupations to fly halfway around the world to experience temperatures only normally felt in Finnish saunas. Our captain, a professional baker, needs to attend to his oven, our ship captain needs to steer his vessel, and our bankers need to go bankrupt (again). This is the harsh reality of cricket at the amateur level of the game."This news will be extremely disappointing to our fans. Despite being the most peaceful nation on Earth, we maintain an army of online followers, and are the world's 14th most followed national board on X. We were ready to give the Dutch the biggest shock they have experienced since William of Orange lost the Battle of Landen in 1693. And the Americans were looking forward to taking on Greenland, or so their orange-dyed leader thought."Our loss is likely Uganda's gain. We wish them well. Their kits cannot be missed unless you have epilepsy, in which case they are probably best avoided. The future is always ice, until it isn't.Yours sincerely,Icelandic Cricket Association”

Earlier on Thursday, a report claimed that the Pakistan cricket team is all set to fly out to Colombo for World Cup participation despite the fact that the final decision on their participation in the T20 WC is still awaited.

Senegal and Morocco fined, players banned after AFCON final chaos

Prince Thakur — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 17:14:00 +0530

New Delhi: The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has issued fines and bans for Senegal's coach and team, and Moroccan players, after a chaotic African Cup of Nations (AFCON) final. The bans are announced on Thursday and are only applicable to African games and not the 2026 World Cup, which begins in June. Senegal and Morocco both have qualified for the tournament.The sanctions announced by Africa's football governing body include fines of $615,000 for the Senegalese Football Federation and $315,000 for the Royal Moroccan Football Federation for unsporting conduct by their players, coaching staff and supporters.The Senegal players walked off the field after coach Pape Thiaw's instruction during the AFCON final, in protest against a late penalty awarded in regulation time to Morocco on January 18. Thiaw defended his team's actions last week and was banned for five African matches, including a fine of $100,000.The match restarted after a delay of more than 15 minutes as Morocco missed the penalty, helping Senegal to win the AFCON title 1-0 after extra time. The controversial final also saw supporters trying to storm the football pitch, with Morocco’s and Senegal’s players fighting on the sidelines.The reporters from the two nations were also involved in a fight in the media areas, while Moroccan ball boys also tried to distract Senegalese goalkeeper Edouard Mendy by seizing his towel, which was being used by Senegalese goalkeeper Edouard Mendy.The behaviour by the home team’s ball boys led to a $200,000 fine for Morocco’s federation, which will co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal and has received heavy criticism for the chaotic African final.Morocco were also aiming to host the 2030 World Cup final at the Hassan II Stadium in Casablanca, which is set to be the biggest football venue in the world with a capacity of 115,000. But the hosting of the AFCON final has badly interrupted their plans.

Players banned

Senegalese players Iliman Ndiaye and Ismaila Sarr have received a ban for two African games, while Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi was banned for two matches, with one suspended. Morocco’s Ismael Saibari received a ban for three matches and was fined $100,000 for unsporting behaviour.CAF also dismissed an appeal made by Morocco to have the result cancelled and declare them as the winner because of the Senegalese walk-off.

'I don't know': Serena Williams, 44, not ruling out comeback to professional tennis

Sparsh Vyas — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 14:21:00 +0530

Former world number one Serena Williams refused to rule out a return to professional tennis during an interview on the Today Show. 44-year-old Serena, who retired after the 2022 US Open after winning 23 Grand Slams, filed the necessary paperwork in December to be back on the list of players registered for the drug-testing pool.While filing the paperwork in December, she ruled out a return and claimed she was "not coming back", but in the recent interview on Monday, the legendary American pro didn't rule out the possibility of a potential return.

Reluctant Serena remains open-minded on return

During the interview, Serena was pushed for an answer on a tennis comeback, and despite a lot of reluctance to respond, didn't rule out a return. I mean really, are you asking this on The Today Show?" Williams asked. "Oh my God.""They would kill me if I didn't," the host replied."Oh my goodness," Williams said."Is that a no?" the host shot back."Is that a no?" Williams responded. "Now people on the set are laughing; this is distracting. You're distracting us over there.""OK, but you didn't say yes or no.""I'm just having fun and enjoying my life right now," Williams replied."That's not a yes or a no," the host clarified."That's not a yes or a no," Williams said. "I don't know, I'm just going to see what happens."Serena, a mother of two, recently spoke about how she is enjoying motherhood and said she put stay-at-home mum and housewife as her occupation on a form.Players can only return to professional tennis competitions after spending six months in the testing pool.The comeback reports were fuelled when her name appeared on a document published by the International Tennis Integrity Agency last October.

IPL: Rajasthan Royals receive $1.3 billion acquisition offer

Sayan Mukherjee — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 10:04:00 +0530

New Delhi: Former Indian Premier League champions Rajasthan Royals have received a $1.3 billion buyout offer in initial round of bidding for valuations.Owned by principal take holders Emerging Media Ventures along with minority investment from RedBird Capital Partners and Tiger Global, the team has put themselves on the market and invited four groups to continue bidding in the second round.Among the interested parties in fray are a consortium led by Times Internet Chairman Satyan Gajwani and another backed by US entrepreneur Kal Somani, reports Bloomberg.The consortium of Somani, who is an existing investor, has offered $1.3 billion in preliminary discussions though it depends on future performance of IPL media rights.The sale process was launched with a floor valuation of around $1.1 billion by adviser Raine Group, anonymous sources told Bloomberg, whose efforts to bring forth any comment from the consortiums didn't materialise.It was earlier reported that Blackstone Inc. and Carlyle Group Inc. has explored the possibility of buying a stake in Rajasthan and defending IPL champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru.

Indicator

Valuation of Rajasthan is being deemed as a key indicator of investor appetite for top cricketing assets as early investors are now looking to cash out.CVC Capital Partners Plc sold its majority share in Gujarat Titans for a valuation of about $800 million last year. RCB's owner Diageo Plc’s Indian subsidiary, United Spirits Ltd., has launched a review of its stake.Multi-billion dollar valuation of IPL teams are under scrutiny, as bidders hope to fund stiff demands in anticipation of continued long-term media growth and international expansion.Founded in 2008, IPL is a 10 franchise tournament that is held in the months of March, April and May. It has a profit-sharing structure, where franchises get a chunk of revenue from media rights and sponsorships, from the Board of Control for Cricket in India while also generating income through merchandise and ticket sales.

Shivam Dube masterclass in vain as India go down to New Zealand in Vizag T20I

Sumit Channa — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 22:24:00 +0530

New Delhi: A masterclass half-century from Shivam Dube went in vain as India went down against New Zealand by 50 runs in the fourth T20I match in Vizag on Wednesday. Chasing a massive 216-run target, Dube, who notched up the third fastest fifty by an Indian in the format off just 15 balls, scored 65 runs off just 23 deliveries to light up the stadium but failed to take the hosts beyond the finish line.New Zealand produced an all-round effort, first with the bat and then with the ball, to deny the Indian team a T20I series sweep with the last match scheduled in Kerala on Saturday. With the series poised at 3-1, India would want to win the final game and the Kiwis would also end the series 2-3.

Samson encounters another failure

Meanwhile chasing a massive score, Indian opener Abhishek Sharma failed to get going departing for a golden duck while skipper Suryakumar Yadav could only muster 8 runs. Sanju Samson, who showcased some glimpse of form with 15-ball 24-run score including three boundaries and a lone six, could not take it beyond as another outing for him turned disappointing.Rinku Singh showcased some courage with 39 runs while Hardik Pandya and Harshit Rana also could put up any efforts. Skipper Mitchell Santner starred with the ball picking three wickets while Ish Sodhi and Jacob Duffy contributed with two wickets apiece. Zakary Foulkes and Matt Henry also did not disappoint picking a wicket apiece.

NZ put up all-round show

Earlier in the contest, Tim Seifert and Dewon Conway played impactful knocks of 62 and 44 respectively to set up a big total for the Kiwis. Daryl Mitchell laid wrath on the Indian bowlers with 39 runs off just 18 balls to help the side cross the 200-run mark. For India, Kuldeep Yadav and Arshdeep Singh claimed two wickets apiece while Jasprit Bumrah and Ravi Bishnoi also picked up a wicket each.

IND vs NZ: India stare at record chase after Seifert, Mitchell power New Zealand to 215/7

Prince Thakur — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 20:57:00 +0530

New Delhi: New Zealand have set a record 216-run target for India in the fourth T20I at the ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam on Wednesday, January 28. This is the highest T20I total ever posted in Vizag, and the second-highest total in a T20I match between India and New Zealand. If the Men in Blue manage to chase down the 216-run target in the fourth T20I, it will be the highest successful T20 chase in Vizag.After being asked to bat first, the visitors got off to a great start as Tim Siefert and Devon Conway forged a 100-run partnership for the opening wicket. Kuldeep Yadav provided the first breakthrough for the Men in Blue as he removed Devon Conway for 44 runs, while Bumrah dismissed Rachin Ravindra for two runs.Seifert and Phillips looked to build a partnership, but Kuldeep removed the latter for 24 as the visitors struggled to score runs in the middle overs. Seifert completed a 25-ball fifty, but the hosts found some momentum and took four wickets in the space of 37 runs to reduce the Blackcaps to 137/4 in 13.4 overs.New Zealand batters played some poor shots as they were eager to maintain a run rate of 12, gifting their wickets to the Indian bowlers. Skipper Mitchell Santner was all set to play another valuable cameo, smashing Bishnoi for a boundary and a maximum in consecutive deliveries.The New Zealand skipper was looking to take a quick single in the 17th over, but Hardik Pandya's direct throw ended his stay. Daryl Mitchell, who scored an unbeaten 39 runs off 18 balls, smashed some big shots in the death overs to take New Zealand past 200.Highest successful chases in all T20S in Vizag210 - Delhi Capitals vs Lucknow Super Giants in 2025209 - Australia vs India in 2023185 - Karnataka vs Andhra in 2019

No security concerns! Bangladesh shooters set to travel to India for Asian Championships next month

Abhishek Kumar — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 20:36:00 +0530

After refusing to send its cricket team to India for the T20 World Cup, citing security reasons , the Bangladesh government has cleared the country's shooters to take part in the Asian Rifle and Pistol Championships in New Delhi next month. The tournament is set to be played from February 02 to 14.Over 300 shooters from across 17 countries will take part in the shooting competition in New Delhi. There were concerns over Bangladesh's shooters' participation in the tournament amid the ongoing strained political ties between the two countries. However, the Bangladesh government has approved its shooters to travel to India.As per Bangladesh's Daily Sun, the Bangladesh Youth and Sports Ministry issued an official government order (GO) on Wednesday, clearing two shooters from the country to travel to India and take part in the Asian Rifle and Pistol Championships in New Delhi.26-year-old Olympian Md Robiul Islam and 21-year-old women's rifle shooter Arefin Shaira will take part in the tournament. Both shooters will take part in the 10m air rifle individual event before teaming up in the mixed team competition. As per the report, the Bangladesh government believes the tournament doesn't pose a security risk as it is set to be played indoors at a secure venue (Karni Singh Range).

Bangladesh team is coming, no doubt about it: NRAI secretary

Meanwhile, Rajiv Bhatia, the secretary of the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI), also rubbished the rumours regarding Bangladesh's participation in the tournament. Bhatia said the Bangladesh team will take part in the Asian Championships and that there has been no communication that suggests otherwise.Bhatia also confirmed that NRAI is in touch with the Bangladesh shooting federation and that the Indian embassy in Bangladesh is working to clear their visas. The tournament will be played from February 02 to 14."So far there is no news that the Bangladesh team is not coming. Their team is coming, no doubt about it," NRAI secretary Bhatia was quoted as saying by PTI."We at NRAI are in regular touch with them (Bangladesh federation officials). The Ministry of External Affairs has given its clearance and we have forwarded it to the (Indian) embassy for visa process," he added.

Bangladesh refused to travel to India for T20 World Cup 2026

Bangladesh were recently replaced in the T20 World Cup 2026 by the ICC after they refused to travel to India for the tournament, citing security reasons. Despite multiple attempts from the ICC to solve the issue, the Bangladesh government and the Bangladesh Cricket Board remained firm on not sending the team to India for the tournament.ICC eventually replaced Bangladesh with Scotland over their refusal to travel to India. Bangladesh will be missing a T20 World Cup for the first time since the tournament's inception in 2007.

Why have India not picked Ishan Kishan in playing XI for fourth T20I vs New Zealand?

Sparsh Vyas — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 19:14:00 +0530

New Delhi: Aiming to continue their winning run, India skipper Suryakumar Yadav once again won the toss and opted to bowl first in the ongoing T20I series against New Zealand. After a long period of experiencing misfortune in coin tosses, luck has finally smiled upon the Men In Blue, who won their third toss on the trot in the fourth T20 International in Vizag on Wednesday.India made one change in their playing XI and brought in an extra bowler in place of a specialist batter. Arshdeep Singh returned to the squad after losing his place in the third T20I in Guwahati. Ishan Kishan, who scored a swashbuckling half-century in the second T20I in Raipur, made way for the left-arm pacer.For the Kiwis, Zak Foulkes replaced Kyle Jamieson in the playing XI.India lead the five-match series 3-0 after registering a dominant 8-wicket win in the third match in Guwahati on Sunday and sealed their ninth series win on the trot.

Why is Ishan Kishan not playing in the fourth T20I vs New Zealand?

Kishan made a smashing comeback to international cricket with a magnificent 32-ball 76 in the second T20I and followed it up with a quickfire 28 in the third match. Drafted back into the international set-up after a long gap of more than two years, Kishan was expected to feature in all five matches to get some much-needed time ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup.However, he missed out on the spot in the playing XI of the fourth T20I. His exclusion, however, was a forced one as Surya revealed that Ishan was sidelined due to a niggle he picked up in the third T20I. However, he did not reveal the extent of the injury, and it remains to be seen if he returns to match fitness ahead of the fifth T20I in Thiruvanantapuram on Saturday.Teams: New Zealand: Tim Seifert (w), Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Mitchell Santner (c), Zakary Foulkes, Matt Henry, Ish Sodhi, Jacob Duffy.India: Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (w), Suryakumar Yadav (c), Rinku Singh, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Harshit Rana, Ravi Bishnoi, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah.

Aston Villa agree loan deal to re-sign Douglas Luiz from Juventus with option to buy - Report

Prince Thakur — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 18:08:00 +0530

New Delhi: Aston Villa have agreed on a deal to sign midfielder Douglas Luiz on loan from Juventus, reports The Athletic. The deal also includes an option to buy the Brazilian international for the Premier League club for €25 million (£21.7 million) plus add-ons at the end of the season, which will end his current contract with Nottingham Forest.Luiz has undergone the final parts of a medical on Wednesday, ahead of completing the transfer. The midfielder will return to Aston Villa after making 200 appearances for the English club between 2019 and 2024. According to The Athletic report, Chelsea were also interested in a loan move for Luiz, but stopped pursuing after an initial enquiry.Villa have limited options in the midfield, and the club is considering options with Youri Tielemans sidelined for an extended period after sustaining an ankle injury in the second half of their victory over Newcastle United on Sunday.Boubacar Kamara has been ruled out for the rest of the season, while skipper John McGinn will be out for at least six weeks. Luiz has made only eight appearances for Nottingham Forest on loan from Serie A club Juventus.He moved to Italy from Aston Villa for €50million plus €1.5m in add-ons in the 2024 summer transfer window, but struggled to make a start in his first season, playing 90 minutes only two times.Aston Villa are currently placed in the third position with 46 points in the Premier League table, and are on the same points as second-placed Manchester City, after 23 matches. Arsenal is currently leading the title race with 50 points in 23 games.

Tammy Abraham joins Aston Villa in £18.2m deal

Aston Villa have also signed striker Tammy Abraham from Besiktas in a deal worth £18.2m. He returned to the club after spending the 2018/19 season on loan at Villa Park. He helped the English club to earn promotion to the Premier League via the play-offs.

WATCH: Australian cricket team arrives in Pakistan for three-T20I series

Sparsh Vyas — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 17:54:00 +0530

New Delhi: The Mitchell Marsh-led Australian cricket team arrived in Lahore on Wednesday to participate in a three-match T20I series amidst uncertainty surrounding Pakistan's participation in next month's T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.The series will act as the final preparatory step for both Pakistan and Australia for the 2026 T20 World Cup starting on February 7.

It remains to be seen if the Pakistan cricket team gets the government’s nod to take part in the tournament, with murmurs of a pullout circulating widely as a mark of support for the Bangladesh cricket team, which was removed by the ICC after the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) failed to confirm its team's participation in World Cup matches in India.Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi met with Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif recently and conveyed that all options remain on the table, with the final decision likely to be taken by either Friday or next Monday.

Pakistan ready to face Australia in intriguing battle

While reports of a withdrawal remain rife, Pakistan have announced their squad for the 20-team tournament. With only one exception, the squad is the same that will take on Australia.The selectors have not picked fast bowler Muhammad Wasim Jr in the World Cup squad, but he will be available for the series against Australia.Australia have reached Pakistan without some of their regulars, including Pat Cummins.

Cummins is among a host of experienced players, including Josh Hazlewood, Glenn Maxwell, Tim David and Nathan Ellis, who have been rested for the Pakistan series to recover completely from injuries before the marquee event.Australia, visiting Pakistan for the first time after mid 2022, though still have enough firepower to subdue the hosts with Travis Head, Cameron Green and Josh Inglis among the A-listers travelling for the three-match series, starting on Thursday, January 29. Australia squad:Mitchell Marsh (c), Sean Abbott, Xavier Bartlett, Mahli Beardman, Cooper Connolly, Ben Dwarshuis, Jack Edwards, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis (wk), Matthew Kuhnemann, Mitch Owen, Josh Philippe (wk), Matthew Renshaw, Matt Short, Marcus Stonis, Adam Zampa.

Badoni, Arya added in India A squad for T20 WC warm-up games, set to miss Delhi's Ranji Trophy match

Prince Thakur — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 16:53:00 +0530

New Delhi: Ayush Badoni and Priyansh Arya will miss Delhi’s last Ranji Trophy match against Mumbai, which will begin on Thursday at the BKC Ground in Mumbai. The duo have been added in India A squad for the 2026 T20 World Cup warm-up matches.India A will take on the USA at the DY Patil Stadium in Mumbai on February 2, before facing Namibia at the BCCI CoE Ground on February 6 in Bengaluru. Ayush Doseja, who is the highest run-scorer in the Ranji Trophy, will lead the side in the seventh round tournament against Mumbai.Ashok Sharma, DDCA Secretary, told IANS that Ayush Badoni and Priyansh Arya will miss Delhi's Ranji Trophy clash against Mumbai, as they have been selected in the India A squad for the 2026 T20 World Cup warm-up matches against the USA and Namibia in Navi Mumbai and Bengaluru."Ayush Badoni and Priyansh Arya will not be playing in tomorrow’s Ranji Trophy clash, as they have been named in the India A squad slated to play Men’s T20 World Cup warm-up games against USA and Namibia in Navi Mumbai and Bengaluru, respectively," Ashok Sharma told IANS. Badoni has previously played in both four-day and List-A matches for India A and will return to the setup along with Arya, who has featured in the side only for white-ball matches.Earlier this month, Badoni also received a maiden call-up to the Indian team, replacing an injured all-rounder, Washington Sundar, in the three-match ODI series against New Zealand. But didn't get to play a match in the ODI series as the Men in Blue lost 2-1 against the Kiwis for the first time at home.

Delhi squad for Ranji Trophy clash against Mumbai

Ayush Doseja (captain), Sanat Sangwan, Vaibhav Kandpal, Sumit Mathur, Pranav Rajvanshi, Siddhant Sharma, Dhruv Kaushik, Rahul Dagar, Anuj Rawat, Divij Mehra, Aryan Rana, Money Grewal, Rohan Rana, and Rahul Chaudhary.

Moeen Ali reverses domestic retirement to join Yorkshire for T20 Blast

Sumit Channa — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 16:30:00 +0530

New Delhi: The Yorkshire County Cricket Club, on Wednesday, confirmed that former English all-rounder Mooen Ali has reversed his domestic retirement to join Yorkshire club for a county stint. Moeen has signed a Blast-only contract for the 2026 season with an option to extend it to 2027, mentions a report.A two-time IPL champion with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Moeen led Worcestershire to their first Blast victory in 2018 and captained Birmingham Phoenix to the final of the inaugural Hundred tournament. Moeen established himself as one of the most successful white-ball cricketers of his generation across the entire world.In a career comprising 420 T20 matches, Moeen has scored a total of 7792 runs and claimed a total of 271 wickets becoming one of the finest in domestic and franchise competitions. As part of the England national limited-overs team, he has won two World Cups. In 92 T20 internationals, he has claimed a total of 51 wickets and scored 1229 runs, which include seven half-centuries.

Moeen delighted to be part of Yorkshire

Meanwhile, after signing the stint with the English county side, he said that he is delighted to be a part of the huge club which has a rich history.'I'm delighted to be joining Yorkshire for the Blast. It's a huge club with a proud history, but what really appeals to me is where the team is heading. There's a lot of talent in the squad and the chance to work with Anthony and help push the group forward is exciting for me. I've always loved playing at Headingley - the wicket, the atmosphere and the supporters make it a special place. This feels like a fresh challenge and I'm arriving hungry for it. I want to bring my experience, enjoy my cricket and help Yorkshire compete,' Moeen said in a statement released by the club.On the other hand, Yorkshire are yet to win the Blast title and ended eighth out of nine teams in the North Group last year.

India vs New Zealand 4th T20I: Live Streaming, head-to-head, pitch and weather report

Sumit Channa — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 14:54:00 +0530

New Delhi: Team India will be looking for a clean sweep when they take on New Zealand in the fourth T20I match of the series on Wednesday. The Suryakumar Yadav-led side has already sealed the five-match series 3-0 after an emphatic display on the field and the hosts would be looking to continue their impressive run in the last two matches as well.The highlight of the Indian performance in the last three matches has been a spectacular batting along with immaculate bowling efforts especially from the pacers. In the batting department, Sanju Samson has been the lone batter who has not been able to fire and the senior batter would be looking to make some impact in the final two games of the series.Apart from Samson, the spinners in the line up would also be looking to make some impact, especially Kuldeep Yadav, who's not been able to showcase his best. The fourth match is a dead rubber but the Kiwis would want to notch up a consolation win and avoid a clean sweep.

Live Telecast and Streaming

The fourth T20I between India and New Zealand will telecast live on Star Sports Network and the live streaming will be available on JioHotstar app and website.

Head-to-Head

India hold an advantage over New Zealand when it comes to T20 Internationals. Out of the 28 matches played between the two teams, India have won 15, while New Zealand have won 10. Three contests have ended in ties.

IND vs NZ pitch, weather report

The Visakhapatnam cricket stadium is tend to offer a batting friendly surface with some bounce and pace making it ideal for strokeplay. The early overs are going to be significant for the batters and the team winning the toss should ideal opt to bat first. Bowlers, especially spinners can also come into play in the middle overs as the pitch slows down.As per weather report, Visakhapatnam is set to remain stable and clear skies will welcome the players from both the teams. Though it will be partly cloudy with humidity levels up to 69 per cent but there are no chances of rain.