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Virat Kohli vs Sachin Tendulkar: AB de Villiers Makes Bold Claim on Who Was Better in Overseas Tests

Hrishikesh Damodar — Thu, 20 Aug 2026 16:10:10 +0530

Former South Africa captain and flamboyant batter AB de Villiers made a bold comparison between two Indian batting stalwarts, Virat Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar, while discussing who was the better batter in overseas Test conditions.

AB de Villiers played against both Indian star batters during his 14-year illustrious international career, giving him a unique perspective on their batting abilities. Tendulkar and Kohli were two of the greatest pillars of Indian Test cricket, whose monumental centuries and match-winning knocks cemented their status as among the true legends of the red-ball game.

Sachin Tendulkar played Tests from 1989 to 2013, while Virat Kohli began his journey in red-ball at the international level in 2011 and retired from the format in May 2025 after 123 matches, with his last appearance being in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024/25, where he scored his 30th and last Test century in Perth.

Also Read: 18 Years of Virat Kohli: Footage of Former India Captain's International Debut Goes Viral (WATCH)

‘Kohli Was Even Better Than Tendulkar in Overseas Tests’

As Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli dominated India’s Test batting in two different eras, AB de Villiers explained how the modern-day master took the path paved by the legendary 'Little Master' and elevated it to new heights.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, the former South Africa captain stated that Tendulkar was the first Indian batter to show that a subcontinent player could succeed in bouncy and seaming overseas Test conditions, but Kohli took that legacy forward and raised the bar even higher.

“I think of someone like Sachin Tendulkar way back, who started that trend for India. Yet, he wasn't as strong as someone like Virat Kohli, who was even better,” de Villiers said.

“But Sachin was the first guy to show that as a subcontinent batter, you can do well in bouncy and seaming conditions. Virat took that forward and raised the bar," he added.

AB DE VILLIERS ON VIRAT KOHLI & HIS BATTING IN OVERSEAS IN TESTS:- "I think of someone like Sachin Tendulkar way back, who started that trend for India. Yet, he wasn’t as strong as someone like Virat Kohli, who was even better. But Sachin was the first guy to show that as a… pic.twitter.com/kbevsghUsm

— Tanuj (@ImTanujSingh) August 20, 2026

AB de Villiers further mentioned that his former RCB teammate’s overseas success inspired the current generation of Indian batters, including KL Rahul and Devdutt Padikkal, to follow in the footsteps of Kohli and Tendulkar and raise their game on overseas tours.

The former South Africa captain’s point was to highlight how Virat Kohli carried forward his predecessor Sachin Tendulkar’s pioneering work in overseas conditions and set an even higher benchmark for Indian batters, particularly in challenging SENA (South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia) countries.

How Did Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli Perform in Overseas Tests?

Sachin Tendulkar is currently the leading run-getter in the history of Test cricket, with 15921 runs, including 51 centuries and 68 fifties, at an average of 53.78 in 329 innings across 200 matches. Virat Kohli, on the other hand, sits at 19th position on the all-time list, amassing 9230 runs, including 30 centuries and 31 fifties, at an average of 46.85 in 210 innings across 123 matches.

When it comes to the overseas Test record between two of India’s batting greats, statistics show that Tendulkar holds a distinct statistical advantage away from home. 106 matches, Tendulkar amassed 8705 runs, including 29 centuries and 36 fifties, at an average of 54.74 in overseas conditions.

Meanwhile, Kohli has aggregated 4894 runs, including 16 centuries and 18 fifties, at an average of 41.12 in 68 overseas Test matches. In SENA nations, Sachin Tendulkar accumulated 5387 runs, including 17 centuries and 23 fifties, at an average of 51.3 in 63 matches. Virat Kohli, on the other hand, has amassed 3871 runs, including 12 centuries and 14 fifties, at an average of 41.54 in 48 matches.

Statistically, Tendulkar might be ahead of Kohli in overseas Tests, but AB de Villiers’ assessment highlights the latter’s greater impact in adapting to challenging conditions and raising the benchmark for Indian batters in SENA countries.

Also Read: IND vs SL, 1st Test: Manav Suthar's 10-Wicket Haul in Galle Makes Fans Predict Big Future

IND vs SL, 1st Test: Rishabh Pant Praises Galle Stadium Ground Staff for Tireless Efforts Amid Rain

Hrishikesh Damodar — Wed, 19 Aug 2026 20:47:17 +0530

Team India wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant praised the efforts of the groundsmen amid the rain following the 165-run win in the first Test of the two-match series against Sri Lanka at Galle International Stadium on Wednesday, August 19.

The Shubman Gill-led Team India took a 1-0 series lead after bundling out the hosts for 206 while they were chasing a 372-run target on Day 5 of the Galle Test. Despite a resilient 95-run partnership between Sonal Dinusha (84) and skipper Dhananjaya de Silva (59) for the fifth wicket, Sri Lanka collapsed under the pressure of the Indian bowling attack, led by Manav Suthar, who picked up six wickets.

Manav Suthar’s maiden 10-wicket haul in Tests anchored India’s bowling attack as they successfully bowled out the hosts, boosting their standing in the World Test Championship (WTC) points table and setting up strong momentum heading into the second and final Test of the series.

Also Read: Rahul, Padikkal's big scores put us under pressure: Dhananjaya de Silva

Pant’s Praise for Galle Stadium Groundsmen Goes Viral

The Galle Test between India and Sri Lanka witnessed heavy downpour, with the start of play on Day 2 delayed by heavy rain and a wet outfield, requiring intensive work from the ground staff to make the venue playable. Even the penultimate day’s play was cut short after dark clouds hovered over the venue, forcing the covers back on and wrapping up proceedings early.

The groundsmen were at the forefront of keeping the match alive through their tireless efforts, working constantly with the covers and mopping up the damp surfaces whenever the weather cleared. After India’s opening Test win in Galle, Rishabh Pant appreciated the efforts of the ground staff with a special Instagram story.

“Thank you to the groundsmen and support staff. The effort and support from you were unbelievable, especially with the rain. Really appreciate it.” Pant wrote on his Instagram story alongside a picture of the ground staff working diligently on the field.

Rishabh Pant’s Instagram story for the groundsmen and support staff of Galle stadium. pic.twitter.com/MNEfFG13YG

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) August 19, 2026

Interestingly, right after Team India’s victory over Sri Lanka, the rain made a return to the coastal city of Galle, highlighting the challenging weather conditions the ground staff had battled throughout the rain-hit Test.

Across five days, India and Sri Lanka camps were apparently anxious about whether rain would disrupt play, but eventually the ground staff’s relentless efforts ensured that the Test reached a result despite several weather interruptions.

Pant’s Ground Staff Shoutout Earns Widespread Praise From Fans

Rishabh Pant’s praise for Galle groundsmen amid rains has received widespread appreciation from fans on social media, especially X (formerly Twitter), with many lauding the wicketkeeper-batter for acknowledging their crucial contribution.

Taking to their X handles, fans praised Pant for acknowledging the often-overlooked efforts of the Galle ground staff, with many calling his gesture “classy” and saying it showed what sets him apart from other players. Some highlighted the groundsmen’s hard work throughout the rain-hit Test and suggested they deserved special recognition.

A few fans also shared their personal experiences of witnessing the groundsmen’s efforts at Galle, while others praised Pant for recognising their contribution.

Like I said I absolutely love Rishabh Pant. A very unique character on & off the field. https://t.co/u8Xke5rQJA

— Prisha (@prishhss) August 19, 2026

I personally witnessed their hardwork at Galle.

— Thirrumurugan D ❤️ (@Jambajar_juggu) August 19, 2026

They deserves an award for their efforts in this test match.

— madhusudhan r (@MadhusudhanR996) August 19, 2026

Love seeing players acknowledge the ground staff. https://t.co/ZC4eLy7GFr

— Sonu Jaat • Cricket (@TheSonuJaat) August 19, 2026

This is exactly what sets Pant apart from the rest.

— Dopamine (@kya_ukhaad_lega) August 19, 2026

its great initiative done well done

— Rocky (@lavparth39) August 19, 2026

A CLASSY GESTURE FROM RISHABH PANT! Rishabh Pant took a moment to thank the groundsmen and support staff at Galle Stadium through his Instagram story. ❤️Behind every great game is a team that works tirelessly behind the scenes. Respect beyond the boundary! pic.twitter.com/HxHpF7HSmU

— SportsTiger (@The_SportsTiger) August 19, 2026

This is what makes Pant apart from other players. Always a team man.

— Dopamine (@kya_ukhaad_lega) August 19, 2026

After an opening Test win against Sri Lanka, India's PCT improved to 53.33%, keeping them safely in the fifth position in the WTC 2025-27 standings behind Australia, South Africa, New Zealand, and Bangladesh. India has played 10 matches so far in the ongoing WTC cycle, winning 5, losing 4, and drawing 1.

The second and final Test of the series will take place at Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo on Sunday, August 23.

Also Read: India's 600th Test win: Gill lauds Suthar, the 'future torch-bearer'

Big ICC Rankings Shake-Up! Mitchell Starc Surpasses Jasprit Bumrah to Reach No 1

Zetan Kumari — Thu, 27 Aug 2026 10:43:50 +0530

In a big development, Team India's star pacer Jasprit Bumrah has lost his No. 1 crown in the latest ICC Test bowlers' rankings. Australian speedster Mitchell Starc has climbed to the top spot for the first time in his entire career. Bumrah had grabbed the number one position back in February 2024 and held on to it until now. However, he did not play in the recent World Test Championship series against Sri Lanka. At the same time, Starc delivered a fantastic performance against Bangladesh, which led to this major change in the rankings.

Other Changes in Bowling Rankings

Mitchell Starc was on fire in the second Test against Bangladesh in Mackay, where he took a total of 10 wickets. This match-winning performance was a game-changer for him. The left-arm pacer jumped two spots, going past both Bumrah and New Zealand's Matt Henry to become the new World No. 1. It's a huge moment for the 36-year-old Starc, as this is the first time he has reached the top of the ICC Test rankings in his long 15-year international career. With Starc at No. 1, Bumrah has now slipped to the second position, and Matt Henry is at third.

Aussie captain Pat Cummins, who took six wickets in that same Test against Bangladesh, has moved up to the fourth spot. Spinner Nathan Lyon has also made a comeback into the top 10. Meanwhile, England's Ollie Robinson shot up 15 places to 11th after a great performance against Pakistan. His teammate, Josh Tongue, also saw a big rise of 16 places, landing him at the 17th position.

Here's the list of Top 5 Test Bowlers

1. Mitchell Starc (Australia) - 872 rating points

2. Jasprit Bumrah (India) - 862 rating points

3. Matt Henry (New Zealand) - 861 rating points

4. Pat Cummins (Australia) - 841 rating points

5. Marco Jansen (South Africa) - 825 rating points

Updates in the Batting Rankings

In the batting rankings, there haven't been any major changes at the very top. England's Harry Brook continues to hold the first position, with Joe Root right behind him at second. Australians Steve Smith and Travis Head have also maintained their spots at third and fourth, respectively.

The biggest news in the top 10 batting list is the massive jump by India's wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant. Thanks to a crucial half-century in the second innings of the Galle Test against Sri Lanka, Pant has climbed six spots to reach seventh place. He now shares the seventh position with Australia's Marnus Labuschagne.

WTC Points Table: Where Does Team India Stand After 165-Run Win over Sri Lanka in Galle Test?

Hrishikesh Damodar — Wed, 19 Aug 2026 17:43:37 +0530

Team India secured a crucial victory in the first Test of the two-match series against Sri Lanka at Galle International Stadium on Wednesday, August 19. The Shubman Gill-led side defeated the hosts by 165 runs to take a 1-0 lead in the series before the second Test, which will begin on August 23 in Colombo.

On the final day of the Galle Test, the visitors bundled out the hosts for 206 in 77.4 overs while they were chasing a 372-run target. Despite a resilient 95-run partnership between skipper Dhananjaya de Silva (59) and Sonal Dishun (84), Sri Lanka collapsed under the pressure of the Indian bowling attack.

Manav Suthar led India’s bowling attack with figures of 6/55 at an economy rate of 2.30 in his spell of 23.4 overs. Pacer Prasidh Krishna picked up two wickets while conceding just 16 at an economy rate of 1.6 in 10 overs. While veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja (1/71) and Mohammed Siraj (1/15) also chipped in with vital breakthroughs.

Also Read: India's 600th Test win: Gill lauds Suthar, the 'future torch-bearer'

Where Does Team India Stand After Galle Test Win?

The 165-run win over Sri Lanka in the Galle Test is crucial for Team India, as their path to the World Test Championship (WTC) final had hit a roadblock after recent setbacks, including a series whitewash at the hands of South Africa at home.

Though a 2-2 draw against England and a 2-0 whitewash against West Indies might have provided some much-needed momentum, India needed a strong start to their Sri Lanka tour to keep their WTC campaign alive and strengthen their chances of reaching the final. Before Galle, Team India was at the fifth spot on the WTC points table with 4 wins, as many losses, and a draw, and had a points percentage (PCT) of 48.15% after nine matches.

After an opening Test win against Sri Lanka, India's (PCT) improved to 53.33%, keeping them safely in the fifth position in the WTC 2025-27 standings behind Australia, South Africa, New Zealand, and Bangladesh. India has played 10 matches so far in the ongoing WTC cycle, winning 5, losing 4, and drawing 1.

Crucial WTC points for India ✅ pic.twitter.com/BZHJlTvHGA

— Cricinfo (@cricinfo) August 19, 2026

Team India missed out on qualifying for their third consecutive WTC final in 2025 following a 4-1 Border-Gavaskar Trophy defeat to Australia Down Under, which ended their run of back-to-back appearances in the summit clash after reaching the final in the 2019-2021 and 2021-23 cycles.

India’s ongoing WTC cycle began with a 2-2 draw in the five-match Test series against England in England, followed by a 2-0 Test series win against the West Indies at home. However, the Shubman Gill-led side suffered a shock Test series whitewash against South Africa, ending India’s historic 18-Test unbeaten run at home.

What Next for Team India?

The Galle Test win against Sri Lanka might have given a major boost to Team India’s chances of qualifying for the WTC final, but the road to the summit clash is still fraught with challenges, requiring consistent performances in the upcoming encounters to secure their spot.

India need to win the second and final Test of the series against Sri Lanka in Colombo to further solidify their standing in the World Test Championship (WTC) points table and continue building crucial momentum for the remainder of the cycle. Thereafter, the two-time WTC finalists will have seven more matches to play in the ongoing cycle.

The Beautiful Game of Test Cricket, indeed. A landmark 600th Test for Team India, capped off with a performance to remember. ✨ Watch #SLvIND 2nd Test, starting 23rd August 10 AM onwards, LIVE on Sony Sports Network TV channels & Sony LIV.#SonySportsNetwork #SonyLIV… pic.twitter.com/mZNQ4F7yy3

— Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) August 19, 2026

After the Sri Lanka Test series, India’s next red-ball assignment will be against New Zealand, where the Shubman Gill-led side will play a two-match Test series in November-December 2026, with the opening match taking place in Wellington from November 19-23, followed by the second in Christchurch from November 27 to December 1.

Thereafter, India will take on Australia in a crucial five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy on home soil, which could prove decisive in determining their WTC final qualification. The series will begin on January 21, 2027, in Nagpur, with the remaining Tests scheduled in Chennai, Guwahati, Ranchi and Ahmedabad.

A clinical victory for #TeamIndia in the Galle Test.Manav Suthar's 6 wicket haul in the second innings, guides India to a 165 run win over Sri Lanka.Scorecard - https://t.co/M9LVyCAp8y #SLvIND pic.twitter.com/QxAhFQGZke

— BCCI (@BCCI) August 19, 2026

Out of the seven remaining matches, Team India will have to win at least seven games to comfortably secure a top-two finish in the standings. However, Australia, South Africa, New Zealand, and Bangladesh will also have a significant say in India’s qualification chances, with their respective results potentially affecting the final WTC standings.

Also Read: Padikkal hails 'slowish' Galle wicket after magnificent maiden ton

IND vs SL: Cheteshwar Pujara Urges Manav Suthar to Resist IPL Lure After Galle Test Heroics

Hrishikesh Damodar — Thu, 20 Aug 2026 12:49:11 +0530

Former India Test batter Cheteshwar Pujara has sternly advised spin-bowling all-rounder Manav Suthar not to chase the lure of the Indian Premier League (IPL) after his match-winning 10-wicket haul in the first Test of the two-match series against Sri Lanka at Galle International Stadium on Wednesday, August 19.

Manav was one of the key players behind India’s 165-run win over Sri Lanka in the Galle Test, where he picked up four wickets in the first innings, followed by a brilliant six-wicket haul in the second innings to finish with a match tally of 10 wickets. In Sri Lanka’s 372-run chase, the 24-year-old wreaked havoc with his sensational triple-wicket maiden, ending any hopes of the hosts’ resistance.

The Galle Test was Manav Suthar’s second outing in whites, coming after his stellar Test debut against Afghanistan earlier in June this year, where he bagged a six-wicket haul in the first innings of a one-off match in New Chandigarh.

Also Read: WTC 2025-27: SL win keeps India's hopes alive, says Madan Lal

‘Don’t Go to IPL’

Cheteshwar Pujara was left impressed by Manav Suthar’s performance in the Test series opener against Sri Lanka in Galle, but the former India batter emphasised the importance of preserving the young all-rounder’s natural red-ball abilities rather than having him compromise his style for the demands of white-ball formats and the IPL.

“Try to preserve him. We have had this discussion in the past that, yes, all the young players might want to play the shorter format, but India should be looking to preserve him for the Test format,” Pujara told Sony Sports Network.

“Yes, he might want to play the IPL, but don't go there. I mean, yes, if he gets the opportunity to play the IPL, that's fine, but don't change your strength.

“I think he doesn't need to change his bowling much. Just when it comes to white-ball cricket, you need to have that flatter trajectory, and I don't mind him playing in the IPL. If he plays in the IPL, if he's successful in the IPL, that is fine, but don't change your strength,” he added.

Manav Suthar cleaned up the tail in a flash! ⚡Three wickets in one over to put the finishing touches on a sensational bowling effort. Watch #SLvIND, 1st Test | Day 5, LIVE NOW on Sony Sports Network TV channels & Sony LIV.#SonySportsNetwork #SonyLIV… pic.twitter.com/LwSc4NGRW2

— Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) August 19, 2026

Manav Suthar played for Gujarat Titans in IPL 2024 and 2026, where he picked two wickets in his five outings. Pujara’s advice was not to avoid the IPL altogether, but to ensure that playing T20 cricket does not force him to alter the strengths that have made him effective in Tests.

‘Don’t Change Yourself’: Pujara’s Advice to Manav Suthar

Further speaking on Manav Suthar’s bowling, India’s former No.3 Test batter praised the youngster for sticking to his natural style and flighting the ball even when it was new. Cheteshwar Pujara believes Suthar’s ability to bowl with patience and attack the right areas could make him a long-term option for the national team.

“For someone like Manav Suthar, who is flighting the ball, who is willing to go a little slower, when it comes to red-ball cricket, you don't need to change that. Don't change yourself just for the IPL. I can understand, but don't change your natural ability, which is to flight the ball," Pujara said.

“When you look at his bowling in the first innings and even while the ball was new, he was willing to flight the ball, put the ball in the right areas. The way he has bowled, I think India has found a proper left-arm spinner who will be there in the squad for a long time,” he added.

In his Test career so far, Manav Suthar has picked up 17 wickets, including two six-wicket hauls, at an average of 11.35 and an economy rate of 2.49 in four innings across two matches. In his first-class career, Suthar has scalped 157 wickets, including 9 fifers and 4 10-wicket hauls, at an average of 24.36 and an economy rate of 2.90 in 33 matches.

Also Read: IND vs SL, 1st Test: Rishabh Pant Praises Galle Stadium Ground Staff for Tireless Efforts Amid Rain

'Pass on the Weed': AB de Villiers Mocked Over Virat Kohli-Sachin Tendulkar Overseas Test Comparison

Hrishikesh Damodar — Fri, 21 Aug 2026 14:32:51 +0530

Former South Africa captain and flamboyant batter AB de Villiers has sparked debate on social media, especially X (formerly Twitter), after he asserted that Virat Kohli is a superior batter to Sachin Tendulkar in challenging, seaming, and bouncy overseas conditions.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, AB de Villiers 360, the former Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) batter argued that while Tendulkar paved the way as the first subcontinent batter to succeed in tough overseas environments, Kohli ultimately took that legacy further and raised the bar to a higher level.

“I think of someone like Sachin Tendulkar way back, who started that trend for India. Yet, he wasn't as strong as someone like Virat Kohli, who was even better. But Sachin was the first guy to show that as a subcontinent batter, you can do well in bouncy and seaming conditions. Virat took that forward and raised the bar," he said.

AB de Villiers rates Kohli better than Tendulkar in tests.“I think of someone like Sachin Tendulkar way back, who started that trend for India. Yet, he wasn’t as strong as someone like Virat Kohli, who was even better. But Sachin was the first guy to show that as a subcontinent… pic.twitter.com/F4hkBmyMlK

— Cricketopia (@CricketopiaCom) August 20, 2026

The remarks by AB de Villiers did not sit well with the Indian cricket community, which was quick to challenge his assessment, with several fans arguing that comparing Kohli and Tendulkar in this manner was unfair, given the latter has a better record and batting average than Kohli across almost every major overseas country in Test cricket.

Also Read: Joe Root equals Sachin Tendulkar's record for most Test fifties

‘Pass on the Weed’

Former South Africa AB de Villiers has sparked debate on social media and even been trolled for his bold claim. One of them was former India and Karnataka pacer Dodda Ganesh, who took a sharp and cheeky swipe at the former South African star on X.

Taking to his X handle (formerly Twitter), Ganesh mockingly responded to de Villiers’ assessment, suggesting that the former South African batter might have been under the influence while making the comparison between Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli in overseas Tests.

“Pass on the weed, brother." the former India pacer wrote.

Pass on the weed, brother. https://t.co/3XOy6o6x9t

— Dodda Ganesh | ದೊಡ್ಡ ಗಣೇಶ್ (@doddaganesha) August 20, 2026

Despite AB de Villiers playing against Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli, who is his former RCB teammate, his controversial take largely ignored the sheer weight of Tendulkar's numbers in his overseas Tests during his illustrious career that spanned 24 years, where he consistently delivered across Australia, England, South Africa, and New Zealand.

How Did Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli Perform in Overseas Tests?

Also Read: 18 Years of Virat Kohli: Footage of Former India Captain's International Debut Goes Viral (WATCH)

Why the Bangladesh Premier League Won't Happen This Year? BCB President Tamim Iqbal Reveals Reason

Asianet Newsable English — Fri, 21 Aug 2026 17:40:30 +0530

Bangladesh's premier T20 competition, the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), will not be held this year as the troubled tournament undergoes an overhaul, the national board chief said Thursday.

"The BPL will not happen this year," Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) president Tamim Iqbal told reporters, saying some franchises had breached rules and regulations.

Also Read: BAN vs AUS: Simmons weighs playing XI changes for Mackay Test decider

Tamim Iqbal Stresses Need to Fix BPL’s Financial Issues

The board was also dealing with unpaid dues and bank guarantee issues, with the BCB having suffered losses of around $3.3 million from the BPL over the past two years, according to Tamim.

"The BPL is a great product, and there is a lot of interest in it. If we can do it properly, the interest will increase even more," Tamim said.

"BCB is supposed to make a profit from franchise cricket, not a loss. So until we fix this, holding a tournament at a loss is not important," he said.

"Our intention is 1,000 percent to host BPL. But I do not want to rush. I want to do it properly; if it takes six months or 12 months, I will take that time," he added.

BCB Begins Franchise Talks Ahead of BPL Overhaul

Tamim, who was recently appointed chairman of the International Cricket Council's newly formed Franchise League Committee, said Bangladesh's own experience with the BPL made the overhaul particularly important.

"If franchise cricket does not run properly in my country, then stopping it, and rebuilding it, will be a big message for my committee," he said.

Tamim was speaking at the launch of the Game Development (GD) Trophy, a new tournament featuring Bangladesh's under-17, under-19 and under-23 teams.

The board has started communicating with existing franchises and plans to complete the franchise process by April or May next year, giving it time to seek alternatives should a team default.

He also said the board was open to foreign franchises.

Also Read: Aus vs Ban, 2nd Test: Renshaw in, Lyon retains spot for Mackay Test

ENG vs PAK, 1st Test: Why Did Ollie Robinson and Josh Tongue Cut the Match Ball in Half? Reason Explained

Hrishikesh Damodar — Thu, 20 Aug 2026 17:51:22 +0530

The England pacers Ollie Robinson and Josh Tongue cut the match ball in half after taking five-wicket hauls each in the first innings of the ongoing first Test against Pakistan at Headingley in Leeds on Wednesday, August 19.

After skipper Joe Root opted to bowl first, England pacers Robinson and Tongue rattled Pakistan’s batting line-up, bundling them for 171 in 48.1 overs, with Abdullah Shafique top-scoring with a gritty 61, while the rest of his teammates struggled to cope with the relentless pressure and movement extracted by the English seamers.

Ollie Robinson (5/51) and Josh Tongue (5/46) shared all 10 wickets, making it the first time in 20 years that two England bowlers had taken five-wicket hauls in the same innings. As a unique memento of their remarkable bowling feat, Robinson and Tongue had the match ball cut in half so that both pacers could take home a piece of the historic occasion.

Also Read: Robinson, Tongue cut match ball in half after historic five-for hauls

Why Did Robinson and Tongue Cut the Ball Half?

Ollie Robinson and Josh Tongue became England’s first pair since 2006 to take five-wicket hauls in the same Test innings. Therefore, they decided to cut the match ball in half to preserve their rare achievement as shared souvenirs, ensuring they both had a tangible piece of history from their unforgettable Headingley performance.

Speaking at the post-match press conference after Day 1’s play, Robinson revealed the idea behind the unusual souvenir, stating that he suggested splitting the ball with Tongue as they walked off the field, and his bowling partner immediately agreed to it and felt it would be a special keepsake from a memorable day.

“As we were walking off, Tonguey (Josh Tongue’s nickname) said, 'I think we should split it'. I was like, 'Yeah, we should actually do that, I think it'd be quite cool'." Robinson said.

“I said, 'Do you reckon they'll be able to do it?' and within five minutes they brought it back up, and it was done," he added.

Robinson 5-51Tongue 5-46Dominant Click below for highlights:

— England Cricket (@englandcricket) August 19, 2026

The last England bowling pair to take five-wicket hauls each in a Test innings was Matthew Hoggard and Steve Harmison against Pakistan at Lord’s in 2006, when the duo claimed five wickets apiece in the first innings. 20 years later, Robinson and Tongue emulated the feat against the same opposition.

‘It’s a Nice Gesture’

Further speaking on the unique memento, Ollie Robinson stated that it was something they would never forget, given how rarely two bowlers take five-wicket hauls in the same innings, adding that splitting the ball was ‘a nice gesture nd something to remember.’

“It's one of those things that you don't really have too many halves of... half a cricket ball,” the England pacer said.

“It's something we'll never forget really, and it's not too often two guys get five in the same innings, so it's a nice gesture and something to remember," he added.

Robinson Tongue wickets between them on D1! Full highlights from the opening day pic.twitter.com/udnoqVnmtu

— England Cricket (@englandcricket) August 20, 2026

Meanwhile, England assumed their first innings batting and posted a total of 112/2 in 25 overs, with skipper Joe Root and Jordan Cox batting on 37 and 23, respectively, and trailing by 59 runs at the end of Day 1 of the opening Test in Leeds.

Also Read: Joe Root's new era: England won't be 'ripping up' Bazball brand

Will Kuldeep Yadav Play 2nd Test? Gautam Gambhir Breaks Silence on Selection Rumours

Asianet Newsable English — Sun, 23 Aug 2026 09:59:18 +0530

Captain Shubman Gill didn't use Kuldeep Yadav much in the first Test against Sri Lanka, sparking a lot of talk. Now, there are rumours he might be dropped for the second Test. Coach Gautam Gambhir has finally broken his silence on the matter.Many are questioning Captain Shubman Gill's decision to not give spinner Kuldeep Yadav a long spell in the first Test against Sri Lanka. The match was in Galle, on a pitch that was great for spinners. While Manav Suthar grabbed 10 wickets and veteran Ravindra Jadeja took some crucial ones, Kuldeep managed to get only one wicket.Suthar and Jadeja together bowled for about 44 overs, but Kuldeep got to bowl only 25 overs in the entire match. India won the Test by a massive 165 runs, but the big question remains: why did Captain Gill show so much trust in Manav Suthar, who was just playing his second Test, but not in Kuldeep Yadav, who has been a match-winner for India for years?Former player Mohammad Kaif spoke about this, saying, 'Looking at how Kuldeep Yadav was used, it's clear Shubman Gill doesn't have enough faith in him.' Kaif believes a unique bowler like Kuldeep is rare, a one-of-a-kind talent. He explained that while you might find another spinner like Suthar to replace Jadeja, or a Washington Sundar for Ashwin, Kuldeep is a special gift. Kaif also pointed out, 'When you give a wrist-spinner a chance, you must give him a long spell. Short spells don't help Kuldeep. He needs time to find his rhythm and fix mistakes. Shubman Gill just didn't back him up.'With the second Test starting in Colombo on August 23, rumours are flying that Kuldeep Yadav might be dropped. But head coach Gautam Gambhir has set the record straight. Gambhir said, 'We know very well how talented Kuldeep is. I've told him that if a wrist-spinner gets too anxious for wickets, he loses control. He should aim for wickets, but not get tense about it.' He added, 'We have great faith in Kuldeep and we know how successful he can be. But, at the end of the day, we will pick the best bowling combination for the given conditions.'

ENG vs PAK, 1st Test: Fan Drops 4 Beers While Returning to Seat, Comes Back With Fresh Round (WATCH)

Hrishikesh Damodar — Thu, 20 Aug 2026 22:38:26 +0530

Amid Day 2 of the opening Test between England and Pakistan, an awkward yet hilarious incident took place when a spectator carrying four beers accidentally dropped them while returning to his seat at Headingley in Leeds on Thursday, August 20.

After a delay for the start of Day 2’s play, England resumed their first innings with an overnight total of 112/2 in 25 overs, with skipper Joe Root and Jordan Cox batting on 37 and 23, respectively, and trailing by 59 runs. Day 1 saw Ollie Robinson and Josh Tongue picking up five wickets each to bundle out Pakistan for 171 in 48.1 overs.

As the morning session was disrupted by rain in Leeds, England’s play resumed only after a lengthy delay, with the hosts eventually taking the field at Headingley. Before the tea break, the hosts posted a total of 239/4 in 54 overs, with Dan Lawrence and vice-captain Harry Brook batting on 22 and 15, respectively, and leading by 68 runs at the end of the afternoon session.

Also Read: Joe Root equals Sachin Tendulkar's record for most Test fifties

Spectator’s Beer Mishap Goes Viral

As England resumed their first-innings batting and began to build their lead, a hilarious yet unfortunate incident involving a spectator caught the attention of the cameras at Headingley. In the 34th over of England’s batting, there was a small stoppage after a spectator carrying four beers accidentally dropped them while making his way back to his seat.

In a video posted by BBC Cricket on its Instagram, which went viral on social media, a spectator was seen carrying four beers in a cardboard holder and appeared to be carefully balancing them while making his way back to his seat. The mishap began after two beers slipped from the holder, causing the remaining drinks to topple over and spill onto the ground.

The camera then focused on the spectator, who appeared visibly disappointed after losing all four beers. However, the man returned to his seat after getting another round of four beers, with the crowd cheering and laughing as he made his way back. The entire incident was captured on the big screen.

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The cricket venues in Australia, England, New Zealand, South Africa, and the West Indies allow spectators to purchase and consume alcoholic beverages inside the stadiums, creating a relaxed matchday atmosphere where fans can enjoy a drink while watching the action.

However, bringing alcohol to the international venues is strictly prohibited, with spectators only allowed to purchase alcoholic beverages from designated areas inside the stadiums.

How Can England and Pakistan Qualify for the WTC Final?

The ongoing Test series between England and Pakistan is crucial for both sides, as all three matches are part of the ICC World Test Championship 2025–27 cycle. The series offers a maximum of 36 WTC points, with both teams needing strong results to improve their chances of finishing in the top two and qualifying for the 2027 final.

England are currently in seventh spot with 4 wins, 8 losses, and a draw, and have a points percentage (PTC) of 24.36%. Pakistan, on the other hand, are eighth with 2 wins and 4 losses from six Tests, having a points percentage of 22.22% after an eight-point deduction. Both sides are currently outside the top-two qualification spots.

England and Pakistan are currently in the situation where they have to win all three matches of the ongoing Test in order to boost their chances of finishing among the top two in the WTC standings. However, even a 3-0 series victory may not guarantee qualification, as their final positions will also depend on results from other teams.

Australia, South Africa, New Zealand, Bangladesh, India, and Sri Lanka are still in contention for the WTC Final, with their respective remaining fixtures also playing a crucial role in determining the final top-two standings. Therefore, England and Pakistan will need a strong finish and favourable results elsewhere to keep their WTC Final hopes alive.

Also Read: Robinson, Tongue cut match ball in half after historic five-for hauls

ENG vs PAK, 1st Test: Rizwan Called Out for 'Bizarre Cricket' After Leaving Khurram to Face Robinson (WATCH)

Hrishikesh Damodar — Fri, 21 Aug 2026 23:57:17 +0530

Former Pakistan Test captain and senior batter Mohammad Rizwan has come under scrutiny for his bizarre decision-making on Day 3 in the first Test of the three-match series against England at Headingley in Leeds on Friday, August 21.

Pakistan lost the series opener by an innings and 103 runs after being bundled out for 135 in 37.3 overs. The visitors resumed their batting in the second innings after wrapping up England’s innings for 409 and were handed a massive first-innings deficit of 238 runs, putting them under intense pressure from the very start.

However, Pakistan batters, except Mohammad Rizwan (41 off 39 balls), failed to show any resistance, as Ollie Robinson (3/29), Jofra Archer (3/50), and Josh Tongue (3/43) tore through the batting lineup and bundled out the visitors for 135, sealing a dominant victory to take a 1-0 series lead with two matches to spare.

Also Read: Joe Root's captaincy return marked by England's win over Pakistan

Nasser Hussain Calls Out Rizwan’s ‘Bizarre Cricket’

As Pakistan had yet another poor outing with the bat in the second innings, resulting in an innings defeat, former England captain Nasser Hussain didn't hold back in his criticism of wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan.

In the 32nd over of Pakistan’s second innings batting, Rizwan took a single off the first delivery, handing the strike over to tailender Khurram Shahzad and leaving him vulnerable to an in-form Ollie Robinson. On the next delivery, Shahzad edged Ollie Robinson behind the wicket, with Jordan Cox taking a straightforward catch at third slip.

Nasser Hussain, who is part of the Sky Sports commentary panel for the ongoing Test series between England and Pakistan, called Rizwan’s decision ‘bizarre cricket’, questioning why the 46-Test veteran left No. 9 Khurram Shahzad to face five deliveries from Ollie Robinson when he was the senior batter at the crease.

“Bizarre cricket. Bizarre cricket when you're batting with a number nine. Rizwan has played 46 test matches and is the senior batter out there, the only batter out there. To expose the tail to five balls of Robinson makes no sense,” the former England captain said.

NASSER HUSSAIN ON COMMENTARY :"I don't understand. Rizwan has played 46 Test matches; he is the senior batter out there, the only batter out there, and exposing Khurram Shehzad to five balls from Ollie Robinson makes no sense." pic.twitter.com/iRtSRHbAlB

— Rayham. (@RayhamUnplugged) August 21, 2026

After Khurram Shahzad was dismissed for 9 at 111/8, Pakistan's resistance quickly folded as the final two wickets fell for just 24 runs, sealing a comprehensive victory for the hosts. Mohammed Rizwan was the visitors’ lone fighter in the middle, offering brief resistance with his aggressive knock before Pakistan were eventually bowled out, giving England a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

Where Does Pakistan Stand at WTC Points Table After Headingley Defeat?

Pakistan’s defeat in the first Test of the three-match series against England at Headingley in Leeds has dealt a significant blow to their standing in the World Test Championship standings. Before the Headingley Test, Pakistan were eighth with 2 wins and 4 losses from six Tests, having a points percentage of 22.22% after an eight-point deduction.

Following the defeat, Pakistan slipped to the bottom of the points table with two wins and five losses, and have a PTC of 19.05% after seven matches. The opening Test, led by Salman Ali Agha in the absence of regular skipper Babar Azam, saw the visitors struggle to find their rhythm in English conditions.

England, meanwhile, holds seventh place in the WTC standings, improving their points percentage to 29.17% from 24.36% after the innings victory at Headingley, marking a crucial step forward as they look to climb higher up the table.

With two more matches left in the ongoing Test series, England and Pakistan will look to regroup as the action shifts to Lord's for the second Test starting August 27.

Also Read: Joe Root surpasses Steve Smith to become leading fielder in Test cricket

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Duleep Trophy Debut: Teen Star Scores Just 8 Runs

Richa Barua — Sun, 23 Aug 2026 14:07:23 +0530

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's much-anticipated Duleep Trophy debut did not go as planned. The 15-year-old batting phenom, who has already made international headlines, scored only 8 runs off six deliveries for East Zone versus North East Zone in the quarter-finals in Bengaluru on Sunday.

Sooryavanshi hit two boundaries in his brief stint at the bat, but he was unable to turn his aggressive start into a large score. His early dismissal disappointed supporters who were looking forward to seeing how the adolescent would manage the challenges of first-class cricket.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Scores 8 in Duleep Trophy Debut.

Sooryavanshi began positively, despite the fact that he was the center of attention. He found the barrier twice. However, his innings lasted only six balls before he was out for eight runs.

The kid was dismissed early in East Zone's innings, providing North East Zone a crucial breakthrough.

Another significant milestone for the teen star

Despite the unfortunate result, the match marks another crucial step in Sooryavanshi's quickly rising career. He was selected East Zone vice-captain, with Ishan Kishan heading the team, marking his first leadership role in zonal red-ball cricket.

Sooryavanshi has lately had an amazing run in Twenty20 cricket, including a great performance for India against Zimbabwe. He has already made his senior India debut at the age of 15.

The Duleep Trophy is a test of his red ball skills.

The Duleep Trophy gives Sooryavanshi a valuable opportunity to improve his longer-format skills. His first-class figures have not yet equalled his spectacular T20 results, thus this competition is very important for his development.

Former India coach Rahul Dravid has also stated that the child requires more exposure to red-ball cricket as he progresses across formats.

For the time being, the 8-run debut is just one inning of what looks to be a long career. As the Duleep Trophy proceeds, Sooryavanshi will be the center of attention.

'If Virat Kohli Was Playing…': Mohammad Kaif Blames India's Low Energy After Sri Lanka Draw

Asianet Newsable English — Fri, 28 Aug 2026 18:41:10 +0530

Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif believes Virat Kohli's presence could have made a difference as India settled for a draw in the second Test against Sri Lanka. India entered the final day with a chance to push for victory. Sri Lanka were four wickets down and held a slender 16-run lead, but the hosts fought back strongly through Sonal Dinusha.

Dinusha produced a brilliant knock as Sri Lanka eventually declared at 429/9, leaving India with a target of 216. However, the match ended in a draw after the two teams shook hands. Reacting to the result, Kaif said India appeared to lack the energy and intensity needed to force a result. According to him, a player like Kohli could have kept the side switched on during the long final-day battle.

‘Playing Tests isn’t everyone’s cup of tea’

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Kaif said Test cricket demands sustained concentration and effort over long periods. “Playing Tests isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, boss. It’s a very long game and you have to keep bowling continuously,” Kaif said.

He added that Kohli's presence could have helped maintain the team's intensity.

“I felt that if someone like Virat Kohli had been playing this match, he would have been constantly shouting and keeping his team switched on,” Kaif said.

Kaif felt India may have become too relaxed because the pitch was offering considerable assistance to the bowlers.

“At times, I felt we took things for granted, thinking, ‘Just keep bowling, it will happen. The ball is turning so much, it will happen on its own,’” he said.

Kaif says India lacked energy

The former India batter said he was disappointed by what he saw as a lack of urgency from the Indian team. According to Kaif, India did not create enough pressure on their own and appeared to wait for the pitch to produce opportunities.

“We created very few things ourselves. Our energy levels were also very low. That is why I am saying, if Virat Kohli had been playing this Test, the result would have been different,” Kaif said.

He believes Kohli's aggressive personality could have lifted the atmosphere on the field and encouraged other players to maintain their focus.

Kohli was well known during his Test career for his high energy levels and for constantly communicating with teammates, whether India were batting, bowling or fielding.

‘He would have kept everyone switched on’

Kaif suggested that Kohli would have constantly pushed his teammates to raise their intensity.

“He would have been telling everyone, ‘Come on, Sarfaraz, come on, Jaiswal,’” Kaif said.

He also felt Kohli may have tried to put additional pressure on Sri Lankan batter Sonal Dinusha through his aggressive presence and verbal exchanges.

Kaif pointed out that India appeared to get involved in confrontations with the wrong players instead of finding ways to unsettle Sri Lanka's key batter.

“Who were we getting into confrontations with? We were getting into confrontations with Kumara,” he said.

For Kaif, the bigger issue was not simply the draw but India's failure to maintain the intensity required to convert a promising position into a victory.

Sri Lanka fight back to save the Test

India had a genuine opportunity to force a result on Day 5 when Sri Lanka were four wickets down.

However, Dinusha's resistance changed the course of the match. His innings helped Sri Lanka recover and build a strong enough lead to set India a target.

The hosts eventually declared at 429/9, giving India 216 runs to chase.

With time running out, neither side was able to force a decisive result, and the teams agreed to end the match in a draw.

Kaif's comments have now added another dimension to the discussion around India's performance, particularly their ability to maintain intensity during long Test matches.

Virat Kohli retired from Test cricket in May 2025, bringing an end to a long and successful career in the format. He had earlier stepped away from T20 internationals in June 2024. Kohli now represents India only in One-Day Internationals.

His retirement left India without one of their most experienced and intense figures in Test cricket.

Same Spot, 13 Years Later: Sanju Samson Reunites with His College Gang at Mar Ivanios (WATCH)

Hrishikesh Damodar — Fri, 21 Aug 2026 17:02:59 +0530

Team India wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson’s successful career has not changed his grounded roots, as he recently reunited with his old college gang, with whom he shared the field in local inter-departmental tournaments by representing Mar Ivanios back in 2013.

Samson, who is currently on break after the T20I series against England in July this year, studied at Mar Ivanios College in Thiruvananthapuram, where he balanced his early academic life with his rising ambitions in domestic and professional cricket. The Kerala star was still pursuing a BA in English Literature when he made his IPL debut for Rajasthan Royals in 2013.

Two years later, 20-year-old Sanju Samson made his international debut for India in a T20I match against Zimbabwe in Harare, marking the beginning of his journey representing the national team on the world stage.

Also Read: 'Sanju Will Decide for Sanju': India Wicketkeeper-Batter Rejects 'Rat Race' to Play on His Own Terms

Sanju Samson Reuniting with his College Gang Goes Viral

Sanju Samson is spending his quality time in Thiruvananthapuram, and he is also the official tournament icon for the Kerala Cricket League (KCL), adding major star power and lending his support to the state's premier domestic T20 competition. Since he is already in his hometown, the wicketkeeper-batter apparently decided to take time out to meet his old college gang.

One of Samson’s friends, Yottiyan Prince, shared heartwarming side-by-side photos of the 2013 and 2026 groups on Instagram, along with a video of them chilling at their special spot, David Uncle’s shop, showing that they still share the same bond and lighthearted vibe as they did in their college days.

Recalling the memories, Prince fondly remembered opening the innings with Samson and how the latter would always look for his friends whenever he was in Thiruvananthapuram. In 2026, the group returned to the same spot and recreated that moment.

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A post shared by YOTTIYAN PRINCE (@yottiyan__prince)

Sanju Samson’s humility was visible when he stayed away from the spotlight after winning the Player of the Tournament award after playing a crucial role in India’s T20 World Cup title defence in February this year, letting his teammates take center stage and once again reflecting the grounded nature that has won him admiration both on and off the pitch.

After returning to Kerala, the wicketkeeper-batter spent quality time with his family and friends before joining the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in Chennai ahead of IPL 2026.

When Will Sanju Samson Return to Action?

After the India T20I tour of the United Kingdom, which included a two-match series against Ireland followed by five matches against England, Sanju Samson was omitted from the T20I squad for the series against Zimbabwe, reportedly as part of workload management, to give young batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi a chance.

In his four outings out of seven matches across the T20I series against Ireland and England, Samson registered scores of 5,0,1, and 27, aggregating just 33 runs at an average of 8.25. Samson has not been included in the South Zone squad in the upcoming Duldeep Trophy season, as selectors noted his current focus primarily remains on white-ball formats.

The 31-year-old is not part of the ongoing Kerala Cricket League (KCL) 2026, as he opted out as a player for personal and professional commitments, instead supporting the tournament from the sidelines in his capacity as its official icon. In the last season, Samson aggregated 368 runs, including a century and 3 fifties, at an average of 73.60 and a strike rate of 186.80 in five innings.

Sanju Samson will return to action in the upcoming Asian Games in Japan, where Team India will defend the gold medal that they won in the 2022 edition of the Games under Ruturaj Gaikwad’s leadership. This time, the Men in Blue will be led by T20I captain Shreyas Iyer at the helm, as Team India looks to replicate past successes on the continental stage.

Also Read: Sanju Samson on Virat Kohli's fitness advice and why he couldn't follow it

IND vs SL Colombo Test: Saransh Jain Debuts, Kuldeep Yadav Misses Out

Richa Barua — Sun, 23 Aug 2026 10:07:19 +0530

Colombo: India has won the toss and decided to bat first in the second Test against Sri Lanka. The team, coming off a win in the first Test, has made one key change to its lineup.

Off-spinner Saransh Jain is making his Test debut, replacing Chinaman spinner Kuldeep Yadav. Senior player Ravindra Jadeja presented Saransh with his Test cap. Meanwhile, Dhruv Jurel has kept his spot at number six in the middle order, which means Sarfaraz Khan has once again been left out of the playing XI.

Sri Lanka, who lost the first Test, have also made two changes to their team. Pasindu Sooriyabandara, who came in as a concussion substitute for the injured Dinesh Chandimal, has retained his place. Kamil Mishara will be making his Test debut, replacing Nishan Madushanka who was dropped after the first match.

Team India is riding high on confidence after their convincing 165-run victory in the first Test. A win here is crucial for two reasons: it would be their first overseas Test series win since 2023, and it would keep their hopes alive for the World Test Championship (WTC) final. Currently, India is in fifth place on the WTC points table with 53.33 percent of points. If they win this match and secure a 2-0 series victory, they will move up to fourth place.

However, despite the big win, India has some areas of concern. Opener Yashasvi Jaiswal's form is a major talking point, as he has scored only one half-century in his last eight innings. Fans are hoping he can overcome his struggles against pace bowling and find his footing at the crease. The Colombo pitch is not expected to be a complete spin-paradise, which could pose a challenge for both teams.

Sri Lanka Playing XI: Lahiru Udara, Kamil Mishara, Pasindu Sooriyabandara, Kamindu Mendis, Dhananjaya de Silva (Captain), Sonal Dinusha, Niroshan Dickwella, Kesara Nuwantha, Prabath Jayasuriya, Lahiru Kumara, Asitha Fernando.

India Playing XI: Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Devdutt Padikkal, Shubman Gill (Captain), Rishabh Pant, Ravindra Jadeja, Dhruv Jurel, Saransh Jain, Manav Suthar, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna.

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IND vs SL Test: India needs 4 quick wickets on final day, Lankans lead by only 16

Richa Barua — Wed, 26 Aug 2026 17:36:03 +0530

IND vs SL Test 2026: The second Test between India and Sri Lanka started in Colombo on Sunday. Team India is already in the driver's seat after winning the first Test. As things stand at the end of Day 4, Sri Lanka is ahead by just 16 runs. Given the situation, if India can take the remaining wickets quickly on the last day, they will have a very small target to chase. A victory looks very much possible (india vs sri lanka live score).

India needs four quick wickets on the final day

India won the toss and chose to bat first, and they certainly made it count by piling up a mountain of runs. Opener Yashasvi Jaiswal scored 45, while his partner KL Rahul made 18. Coming into the middle order, Devdutt Padikkal once again made a big contribution. He scored a brilliant century in the second Test as well, playing a superb innings of 117 runs (ind vs sl 2nd test). Meanwhile, captain Shubman Gill scored 50, wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant made 63, and Ravindra Jadeja added 43 runs. We have to give a special mention to Dhruv Jurel.

His smart batting put Team India on an even stronger footing. Jurel played an unbeaten innings of 115 runs. His century helped India increase their total significantly. However, Saransh Jain couldn't do much and returned to the pavilion for just 6 runs. Manav Suthar scored 18, and Mohammed Siraj added 3 runs to the scoreboard. Prasidh Krishna remained not out on 4. Finally, India declared their first innings at 503 for 9. Three partnerships were crucial: the 120-run stand between Shubman Gill and Devdutt Padikkal, the 74-run partnership between Ravindra Jadeja and Devdutt Padikkal, and the 112-run partnership between Rishabh Pant and Dhruv Jurel.

Sri Lanka ahead by just 16 runs at the end of Day 4

For Sri Lanka, Asitha Fernando took 4 wickets. Prabath Jayasuriya and Kesara Nuwantha picked up two wickets each, while Lahiru Kumara got one. In reply, Sri Lanka's innings folded for just 290 runs. Opener Lahiru Udara made only 1 run, the other opener Kamil Mishara scored just 19, and Prabath Jayasuriya went back for 2. Kamindu Mendis scored 32, while captain Dhananjaya de Silva added only 8 runs. Wicketkeeper-batter Niroshan Dickwella couldn't even open his account. Kesara Nuwantha made 18, Lahiru Kumara 12, and Asitha Fernando was out for 1. It's clear that the Sri Lankan batting lineup completely crumbled in front of the Indian bowlers.

However, in the middle of all this, Pasindu Sooriyabandara and Sonal Dinusha put up a bit of a fight. Sooriyabandara played a solid innings of 80, and Dinusha scored a century with 103 runs. But even that wasn't enough for Sri Lanka to avoid the follow-on. Their innings ended at just 290. For India, Manav Suthar bowled well in this match too, taking 3 wickets. Prasidh Krishna also got three wickets. Saransh Jain picked up two, while Mohammed Siraj and Ravindra Jadeja took one wicket each. Forced to follow-on, Sri Lanka started their second innings, but it was another disaster. Opener Lahiru Udara was sent back for just 3 runs, while the other opener Kamil Mishara scored 32. Captain Dhananjaya de Silva added 23 runs to the board. Pasindu Sooriyabandara once again made a crucial contribution with a fighting knock of 92, and Kamindu Mendis added 55 runs.

Wicketkeeper-batter Niroshan Dickwella couldn't do much in this innings either, scoring only 6 runs. At the end of Day 4, Sri Lanka's score is 229 for 6. The Lankans have a lead of 16 runs. It will be very difficult for this weak batting lineup to fight back. So, if Team India can take the remaining four wickets quickly on the final day, the target will be very low. In that case, a win is just a matter of time. However, the threat of rain is an extra cause for concern.

MS Dhoni: Big Rift with CSK? Talks to Buy Stake in Team Reportedly Collapse

Richa Barua — Wed, 26 Aug 2026 17:26:51 +0530

There seems to be a major disagreement between Mahendra Singh Dhoni and the Chennai Super Kings management over a stake in the franchise. Since the IPL began in 2008, Dhoni and CSK have been almost the same thing for fans. According to reports, Dhoni wanted to make this relationship even stronger by buying a stake in the team. However, the talks failed because they couldn't agree on the terms, leading to a crack in their relationship.

Here's how the negotiations reportedly went down. Initially, Dhoni wanted to buy a 25% stake in the franchise. But the team's owners offered him just 3%. Dhoni then lowered his demand to 20%, but CSK's counter-offer was only 4%. In the end, Dhoni was apparently ready to settle for an 18% stake, but the management's final offer was a mere 5.5%. After this, the discussions came to a complete halt.

So, will Dhoni play for CSK again?

A media report claims that Dhoni wanted to buy the stake with his own money, not get it for free. But the CSK management seems to have seen things differently. This has created a serious rift between both sides ahead of the 2027 IPL season. Now, there's a big question mark over whether Dhoni will even play in the next IPL.

An end of a golden era for IPL?

Dhoni has been with CSK since 2008, for every single season the team has played. Under his legendary captaincy, CSK won the IPL trophy five times. He has also played the most matches for the franchise. This year, he couldn't play because of a calf muscle injury. Even then, there were talks about him staying on in some other role. But now, the whole situation has changed.

Watch: Indian Disability Team Recreates Ganguly’s Iconic Lord's Celebration After Defeating England

Hrishikesh Damodar — Thu, 20 Aug 2026 14:30:15 +0530

Indian mixed disability team recreated former India captain and batting legend Sourav Ganguly’s iconic shirt-waving celebration after defeating England in a final T20I match at Lord’s Cricket Ground on Wednesday, August 19.

Indian mixed disability team, led by Majid Magray, defeated England by 118 runs in the seventh and final T20I of the series at Lord’s, clinching a consolation win as England won the seven-match series 4-3. After posting a total of 206/4, the visitors bundled out the hosts for 88, sparking jubilant scenes on the historic balcony.

Though India lost the mixed disability T20I series against England, the visitors’ victory at the iconic venue was celebrated with unbridled joy, instantly drawing parallels to Ganguly’s famous NatWest series final celebration in 2002.

Also Read: Jadeja recalls 2017 Galle Test triumph after India's latest win

Sourav Ganguly’s Iconic Celebration Recreated at Lord’s

The iconic Lord’s balcony is known for many historic moments in cricket history, right from India’s historic 1983 World Cup triumph to Sourav Ganguly’s shirtless exuberance in 2002, and the latest celebration by the mixed disability team fittingly added to that proud tradition.

In a video that went viral on social media, especially X (formerly Twitter), a few members, one of them removing the Indian kit, waved their shirts high in the air with uncontainable excitement, perfectly mirroring the legendary moment created by 'Dada' at the same historic venue back in 2002.

India might have lost the series to England, but the players, coaches, and support staff couldn't hide their sheer elation as they signed off the seven-match T20I tour with a memorable victory at the Home of Cricket. The celebration was a tribute to one of Indian cricket's most iconic moments, proving that the win meant far more than just the scoreline.

लार्ड्स की बालकनी में सौरव गांगुली मूवमेंट... भारतीय मिक्स्ड डिसेबिलिटी टीम ने लार्ड्स में इंग्लैंड की टीम को आसानी से पराजित किया तो उनके खिलाड़ियों ने टीशर्ट उतारकर जश्न मनाया। pic.twitter.com/rZukhY1lyZ

— Abhishek Tripathi / अभिषेक त्रिपाठी (@abhishereporter) August 19, 2026

When India wins at Lord’s, the celebrations hit different. A moment of pure cricketing joy on the Lord’s Balcony — coats off, spirits high, and the Tricolour flying with pride.118 runs. One unforgettable celebration.@imRaviKChauhan@official_idca pic.twitter.com/o6IuoRJto8

— Differently Abled Cricket Council of India (@dcciofficial) August 19, 2026

Sourav Ganguly’s shirt-waving celebration after Team India won the final ODI against England to clinch the NatWest series win was a befitting reply to former England all-rounder Andrew Flintoff, who had earlier removed his shirt in jubilation after chasing down a target against India at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai months prior.

Since then, Ganguly’s iconic victory celebration has been recreated and celebrated by several teams and fans visiting the venue.

How Did India's Mixed Disability Perform in the England T20I Series?

India had a poor start to the series as they lost the opening match to England by 29 runs at Lord’s Cricket Ground. However, the Majid Magray-led side made a comeback with two consecutive wins to take a 2-1 series lead.

England then mounted a comeback, winning three matches on the trot to capture an unassailable lead and clinch the series ahead of the final fixture. The final T20I was a dead rubber as England had already secured an unassailable 4-2 lead in the seven-match series. However, India were determined to return home on a winning note rather than surrender meekly.

A statement at Lord’s! India storm to a 118-run win — 206/4 followed by England bowled out for 88. Captain Majid Magray’s 63 off 19* led the charge! @JayShah @ICC @BCCI @imRaviKChauhan pic.twitter.com/5gDCyZsdyH

— Differently Abled Cricket Council of India (@dcciofficial) August 19, 2026

In the T20I series finale, the Men in Blue delivered a dominant performance with both bat and ball, posting 206/4 before producing a sensational bowling display to bowl England out for just 88, securing a consolation victory by 118 runs.

Skipper Majid Magray's explosive unbeaten 63 off just 19 balls and Arun Gawre’s 68 helped India set a 207-run target for England to chase before bowlers Hilal Ahmad Wani (4/21) and Jayesh Parmar (3/14) dominated England's batting line-up, sparking incredible scenes of jubilation as they recreated Sourav Ganguly’s legendary 2002 balcony celebration.

Also Read: Gary Kirsten optimistic about Sri Lanka's Test future despite India loss

Anaya Bangar Net Worth: Meet Sanjay Bangar’s Daughter Approached BCCI To Play Women's Cricket In India; Read On

Richa Barua — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 13:47:15 +0530

Anaya Bangar, the daughter of former India cricketer and coach Sanjay Bangar, is back in the spotlight after being granted permission to continue competitive women's cricket in Australia. Her journey, however, has not been smooth. Anaya, a former Mumbai age-group player, has publicly discussed her transition, the problems she experienced in cricket, and her efforts to find a place in the women's game.

Her current development has also drawn attention to a previous attempt to obtain clarification from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), which she claims remained ignored.

Who is Anaya Bangar?

Anaya Bangar was born in Mumbai and raised in a cricketing household. Her father, Sanjay Bangar, played Test and One-Day International cricket for India before becoming a coach. Anaya followed in his footsteps, developing an interest in cricket at a young age. According to SportsDunia's biography, she played age-group and club cricket for clubs in Mumbai and England.

She has also discussed playing competitive age-group cricket in Mumbai and at the state level. Her cricket career took a new path when she began to transition and subsequently openly revealed her experiences as a transgender player.

Anaya Bangar’s Cricket Journey

Cricket was a big part of Anaya's childhood. She has previously said that she played age-group cricket and continues to play club cricket overseas.

Her move was a significant issue because eligibility regulations for women's cricket differ amongst regulatory organisations. The International Cricket Council now prohibits transgender women who have gone through male puberty from participating in international women's cricket.

That incident prompted Anaya to seek clarification on whether she could continue playing competitively.

Why Did Anaya Bangar Approach the BCCI?

According to Anaya, she approached the BCCI to enquire whether transgender athletes may compete in women's cricket in India. She stated that she received no answer from the Indian board.

When asked about her experience, she described the quiet as disappointing and painful. Anaya has encouraged the BCCI to explore adopting a policy for transgender participation, claiming her experience might help shape future standards.

Cricket Australia Gives Anaya a Way Back

After receiving no response from the BCCI, Anaya contacted Cricket Australia in June 2026. The Australian board later approved her to play community-level women's cricket.

According to the current judgement, she can play Premier Cricket in Australia until March 2027. However, participation in top events like the Women's Big Bash League will be contingent on satisfying Cricket Australia's unique eligibility rules, which include testosterone-related factors.

Anaya sees the choice as a chance to return to a sport she previously believed she would never play again.

Anaya Bangar's Family Background

Anaya is the daughter of former India all-rounder Sanjay Bangar, who subsequently became a coach. Her family has a close relationship with cricket, and her father was instrumental in introducing her to the game.

She also has a younger brother named Atharva.

What Are Anaya's Next Steps?

Anaya aims to revive her cricket career in Australia's domestic circuit. While Cricket Australia approval provides her with an opportunity, it does not guarantee selection to an elite squad or a WBBL contract.

Her immediate goals will be to return to competitive cricket, prove herself on the pitch, and continue the discourse about transgender involvement in sports.

ENG vs PAK: Joe Root’s Near-Miss of 50 International Average Echoes Don Bradman’s Mythical Milestone

Hrishikesh Damodar — Fri, 21 Aug 2026 13:07:33 +0530

England Test captain and talismanic batter Joe Root has been playing international cricket for nearly 14 years, making his Test debut against India in December 2012. Since then, Root has evolved into one of the greatest run-scorers of the modern era, breaking records and anchoring the English batting line-up across formats.

In the ongoing Test against Pakistan at Headingley, Joe Root resumed his leadership role after regaining the captaincy, anchoring England’s innings on Day 2, playing a gritty innings of 66 off 112 balls and forming a 150-run partnership with Jordan Cox, who scored 73 off 100 balls to put England in a commanding position in the Headingley opener.

However, the veteran English batter’s dismissal was more than just heartbreak, as he was left stranded on 66, just one run short of achieving his International batting average of exactly 50.00, which could have made him the first English batter with a minimum of 10,000 international runs to touch that rare statistical landmark.

Also Read: Joe Root equals Sachin Tendulkar's record for most Test fifties

Joe Root Stranded at 49.99 Batting Average

Achieving a batting average of 50 across all formats in international cricket is one of the most significant achievements for any batter, representing the ultimate benchmark of consistency and longevity in the modern game. Joe Root fell just one short of the landmark, remaining stranded at an international batting average of 49.99 after his dismissal for 66.

Before walking to bat in the first innings of the Headingley Test, the 35-year-old was averaging 49.96 across all formats of the game and needed 67 runs to reach the coveted 50.00 mark. Root appeared to be well on course to achieve the milestone after settling into his innings. However, Khurram Shahzad’s crucial breakthrough trapped the England talisman lbw just one run shy of destiny.

Joe Root’s 67 runs took his total international tally to 22899, and he was dismissed 458 times out of his 516 innings played. Therefore, his batting average can be calculated by dividing his total runs by the number of times he has been dismissed, meaning 22899/458 = 49.998, which leaves the England talisman agonizingly close yet technically fractionally short of the elusive 50.00 average mark.

Before today’s innings, Joe Root needed 67 runs to bring his intl batting average up to 50.00, but he was dismissed for 66 Highest Average in Intl Cricket (All formats || min 10000 runs)52.71 - Virat Kohli 49.99 - *49.10 - Jacques kallis 49.00 - Michael… pic.twitter.com/yy8qMqblGv

— (@Shebas_10dulkar) August 20, 2026

Joe Root needs just one more run to reach the milestone if he remains unbeaten in his next innings, whereas a dismissal without adding to his tally would leave him short of the coveted 50.00 international batting average. If Root takes his tally to 22,900 by scoring just 1 run but is dismissed for the 459th time, his average would fall back to 49.89 (22,900/459), highlighting just how fine the margins are when chasing cricketing history

In case the veteran batter remains unbeaten after scoring just 1 run in the second innings of the Headingley Test, he will instantly cross the threshold and attain the pristine 50.00 international average. In this scenario, Root needs to score at least 51 runs before his dismissal to secure a 50.00 international batting average if his innings ends in a wicket.

Don Bradman’s Strange Parallel

Joe Root falling just one run short of reaching a 50 batting average benchmark in his illustrious international career has revived memories of batting legend Donald Bradman’s iconic Test career average, where a single boundary in his final Test innings would have seen him finish with a pristine, mythical 100.

Bradman’s Test batting average of 99.94 is not only a record in red-ball cricket, but also in international cricket, as ODIs and T20Is were not played during his era, locking his legendary benchmark forever in history. Amassing 6994 runs at an average of 99.94 in just 52 matches remains unmatched, setting a golden standard for batting by Bradman.

However, before playing the final innings of his Test career against England at The Oval in August 1948, Don Bradman’s batting average stood at 101.39. To finish his unparalleled career with an average of exactly 100.00, he needed just four runs in his final innings. However, he was famously bowled for a duck by England spinner Eric Hollies, leaving him with a career average of 99.94.

Had Bradman scored four runs in that final innings, his career tally would have reached 7,000 runs from 70 dismissals out of 80 innings he played, giving him the immaculate Test batting average of exactly 100.00.

Now, Joe Root’s near-miss at the 50.00 mark in his international career offers a fascinating modern parallel to Don Bradman’s famous pursuit of a perfect 100.00, with both legends of the game in different eras finding themselves within touching distance of a statistical landmark that would have added an even more extraordinary chapter to their already remarkable careers.

Also Read: Virat Kohli vs Sachin Tendulkar: AB de Villiers Makes Bold Claim on Who Was Better in Overseas Tests