Tag: Indian cricket team

  • IPL 2026: Shah Rukh Khan’s Team Targets These 5 Players in the Auction!

    IPL 2026: Shah Rukh Khan’s Team Targets These 5 Players in the Auction!

    Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are set to spend big in the IPL 2026 auction. The team has already released some major names, including Quinton de Kock and Venkatesh Iyer. Additionally, Andre Russell has retired. Now, the Knight Riders are eyeing five potential players who could strengthen the squad.

    1. Cameron Green

    The Australian all-rounder is KKR’s top choice. With Russell retired and Iyer released, the team needs a pace-bowling all-rounder like Green. In IPL matches, he has already showcased his talent with 707 runs and 16 wickets in 29 games. The auction for him is expected to be competitive, and he could even become one of the most expensive players in history.

    2. Jamie Smith

    This English batsman can bat at any position. He can open, form a partnership with Narine, or finish matches. Additionally, he could solve KKR’s wicketkeeping issue, as de Kock and Rishabh Gurunath have been released. Jamie Smith has already scored 130 runs in 5 T20 matches at a strike rate of 194.02.

    3. Jacob Duffy

    Duffy could be an ideal choice to strengthen KKR’s pace attack, especially in death overs. The New Zealand bowler has taken 53 wickets in 38 T20 matches. After Russell’s retirement, he could become KKR’s main weapon in the death overs.

    4. Prithvi Shaw

    KKR needs a strong Indian opener, and Prithvi Shaw could fill that gap. The Indian batsman has recently shown consistency in domestic cricket. KKR’s head coach Abhishek Nayar has also expressed interest in coaching Shaw. With a base price of just ₹75 lakh, he is an affordable option for the team.

    5. Venkatesh Iyer

    The team may try to bring him back. Despite being released, Iyer shares a good relationship with KKR. He could be valuable as a future captain. Iyer’s interest in the team is clear, so a reunion in the auction is possible.

  • India vs South Africa : India Thrash South Africa by 101 Runs in Cuttack T20I

    India vs South Africa : India Thrash South Africa by 101 Runs in Cuttack T20I

    India delivered a sensational performance in the first T20I (India vs South Africa) of the five-match series against South Africa at Barabati Stadium, Cuttack, defeating the Proteas by a massive 101-run margin. Batting first, India posted a formidable total of 175/6 in 20 overs, powered by Hardik Pandya’s explosive 59 off 28 balls.

    Despite early setbacks with Shubman Gill (4) and Suryakumar Yadav (12) falling cheaply, India recovered through key contributions from Tilak Varma (26), Axar Patel (23), and Pandya, whose innings proved decisive. Shivam Dube (11) and Jitesh Sharma (10*) provided valuable support in the final overs, helping India set a challenging target.

    In response, South Africa’s batting lineup crumbled completely, being bowled out for just 74 in 12.3 overs—marking their lowest-ever T20I total. Arshdeep Singh (2/14), Jasprit Bumrah (2/17), Varun Chakravarthy (2/19), Axar Patel (2/7), Hardik Pandya (1/16), and Shivam Dube (1/1) shared the wickets, while Quinton de Kock was dismissed for a duck in the first over, setting the tone for the Proteas’ collapse.

    The match also saw Jasprit Bumrah reach a major milestone, claiming his 100th T20I wicket and becoming the first Indian bowler to take at least 100 international wickets across all three formats.

    This dominant win gives Suryakumar Yadav-led India a 1-0 lead in the five-match series. The second T20I will also be played at Cuttack, giving the hosts an excellent start in the contest.

  • IPL 2026: KKR Could Surprise with This Former Cricketer in the Auction!

    IPL 2026: KKR Could Surprise with This Former Cricketer in the Auction!

    IPL 2026 auction has gained new excitement with South African wicketkeeper-batsman Quinton de Kock. Although he was not in the initial list, de Kock has now been included as a late addition in the list of 350 players.

    After being released by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), many assumed that he would not be sold in the next season’s auction. However, his recent performances have completely changed that perception. He played a blazing 106-run innings in the third ODI against India. In addition, he scored impressive innings of 63, 123*, and 53 runs in three ODIs against Pakistan.

    This year’s auction will not only feature familiar players but also some new Sri Lankan cricketers. Travin Mathew, Binura Fernando, Kushal Perera, and Dunith Wellalage will be part of the list. Additionally, Australia’s all-rounder Cameron Green is expected to be in List 1 and could become the most expensive player in the auction.

    The BCCI stated in a mail, “The auction will be held with 350 players and will begin at 1 PM UAE time (2:30 PM IST) on Tuesday, December 16, at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi.”

    From a team finance perspective, KKR is entering the auction with the largest budget. They have ₹64.30 crore to fill 13 vacant spots. Meanwhile, 2023 champions Chennai Super Kings have a budget of ₹43.4 crore and are aiming to fine-tune their squad in the auction.

    So, the IPL 2026 auction promises to be thrilling once again, setting the stage for new stories and big surprises for cricket fans.

  • India vs South Africa: ‘Virat’ Surprise in India’s Probable XI! Watch Match for Free on This App

    India vs South Africa: ‘Virat’ Surprise in India’s Probable XI! Watch Match for Free on This App

    Ahead of the T20 series against South Africa (India vs South Africa), the Indian team faces a pleasant yet tough selection puzzle. With the 2026 T20 World Cup preparations in mind, head coach Gautam Gambhir and the team management are reportedly considering several bold decisions. The biggest dilemmas appear to be Jitesh Sharma vs Sanju Samson and Harshit Rana vs Arshdeep Singh.

    Shubman Gill, returning from injury, is set to open alongside Abhishek Sharma. Though Sanju Samson prefers opening, Gill is being preferred for his anchoring ability. Abhishek will take on the aggressive role. Captain and world No. 1 T20 batter Suryakumar Yadav will bat at his favorite No. 3 position. Tilak Varma is expected to be the priority at No. 4, adding left-handed balance to the lineup.

    As wicketkeeper, Jitesh Sharma is currently ahead of Sanju. The reason is simple — Jitesh is explosive from ball one and is a specialist finisher, a role in which India lacks options. If Sanju plays, he would need to come down the order, which is not his natural position.

    Hardik Pandya’s Return Strengthens Team Balance

    Hardik Pandya’s comeback provides the perfect balance — destructive batting at No. 5 and four overs of medium-fast bowling. After him comes the reliable all-rounder Axar Patel.

    In pace bowling, Jasprit Bumrah will lead the attack. Arshdeep Singh’s experience helps his case, but young Harshit Rana’s speed and aggression make him a strong contender. With Hardik available as an additional pacer, Harshit could comfortably bowl all four overs if selected.

    In the spin department, Kuldeep Yadav will partner with mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy, a combination that could trouble South Africa’s middle order.

    India’s Probable XI :

    Shubman Gill (Vice-captain), Abhishek Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav (Captain), Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Jitesh Sharma, (Wicketkeeper), Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh / Harshit Rana, Jasprit Bumrah

    Match Details

    Toss Time: 6:30 PM (IST)

    Match Start: 7:00 PM (IST)

    Live Telecast: Star Sports Network

    Live Streaming: JioCinema / Hotstar app & website

  • Rohit Sharma emulates Virat Kohli, becomes 4th Indian batter to reach 20,000 international runs

    Rohit Sharma emulates Virat Kohli, becomes 4th Indian batter to reach 20,000 international runs

    Rohit Sharma has achieved a monumental milestone by crossing 20,000 runs in international cricket, becoming only the fourth Indian batter in history to do so. The achievement, recorded in Visakhapatnam during India’s chase of 271 against South Africa in the final ODI of the three-match series, reinforces his status as one of India’s greatest ever white-ball players.

    বিশাখাপত্তনমে চতুর্থ ভারতীয় ব্যাটার হিসাবে ইতিহাসে লিখলেন ‘হিটম্যান’

    Joining India’s Most Elite Batting Club

    With this milestone, Rohit now stands alongside:

    Sachin Tendulkar

    Virat Kohli

    Rahul Dravid

    Rohit reached the landmark in just 538 innings, showcasing a remarkable combination of consistency, an average above 42, and a superb strike rate—numbers that surpass many other members of the 20,000-run club.

    India’s Top Run-Scorers in International Cricket

    Sachin Tendulkar – 34,357 runs (664 matches)

    Virat Kohli – 27,910 runs (556 matches)

    Rahul Dravid – 24,064 runs (504 matches)

    Rohit Sharma – 20,580 runs (505 matches)

    Sourav Ganguly – 18,433 runs

    MS Dhoni – 17,092 runs

    Rohit also has 50 international hundreds, the third most by an Indian.

    A White-Ball Giant

    A dominant force in limited-overs cricket, Rohit has amassed:

    11,000+ ODI runs

    4,300+ Test runs

    4,231 T20I runs (India’s highest in the format)

    Since making his ODI debut in 2007, Rohit’s journey has been defined by transformation. Initially inconsistent and often under pressure to retain his spot, he blossomed after moving to the top of the order in 2013.

    Record-Breaker and Modern-Day Great

    Rohit has rewritten the record books:

    The only player with three ODI double centuries

    Holder of the highest individual ODI score — 264 vs Sri Lanka (2014)

    Five centuries in the 2019 Cricket World Cup, the most in a single edition

    His aggressive style revolutionized India’s white-ball batting. He led India to the 2023 ODI World Cup final, and although the title slipped away, he redeemed himself by guiding India to victory in the 2024 T20 World Cup and the 2025 Champions Trophy.

    Test Renaissance

    Rohit’s Test career witnessed a dramatic resurgence after he began opening in 2019. He flourished across two World Test Championship cycles, becoming one of the most reliable Test openers in world cricket before retiring from the format in 2025 after a dip in form.

    A Legend in the Final Phase of His Career

    Now past 35 but still performing at the highest level, Rohit continues to thrive under pressure. His career is a testament to perseverance: extraordinary talent backed by maturity, adaptability, and the ability to deliver when it matters most.

    There remains one unfulfilled dream — the ODI World Cup title, which he may get another shot at in 2027. Given his current form, dropping him seems almost unimaginable.

    With 20,000 international runs, Rohit Sharma is not just a prolific run-scorer—he is a transformative figure in Indian cricket. His dominance in white-ball formats, his record-shattering innings, and his leadership have secured his place among India’s all-time greats. His journey reminds us that while many have talent, only true legends rise above pressure to define an era.

  • India vs South Africa 2025: Kuldeep Yadav & Prasidh Krishna’s Bowling Performance

    India vs South Africa 2025: Kuldeep Yadav & Prasidh Krishna’s Bowling Performance

    In the India vs South Africa match, Indian bowlers stopped the Proteas’ dominant innings. South African batsmen struggled in the spinning trap set by Chinaman spinner Kuldeep Yadav. With Kuldeep’s skillful bowling combined with Prasidh Krishna’s pace attack, South Africa was bowled out for 270 in 47.5 overs. As a result, India faces a target of 271 runs to win the match.

    সিরিজ বাঁচানোর লড়াইয়ে আক্রমণাত্মক ভারত পেল সহজ টার্গেট

     

    India’s bowling attack was effective from the start. The decision of captain KL Rahul, who won the toss and chose to field, proved correct. Arshdeep Singh dismissed Ryan Rickelton in the very first over. The opening partnership between South Africa’s Quinton de Kock and Temba Bavuma came to an end at 113 runs. After Bavuma was dismissed for 48 by Ravindra Jadeja, the team had to rebuild the innings.

    The major turning point of the match came in the last ball of the 33rd over. After scoring a century, de Kock misjudged a perfect delivery from Prasidh Krishna and was bowled. From that point, South Africa’s scoring rate slowed significantly. The lower-middle order failed to accelerate, with only Dewald Brevis scoring 29 runs off 29 balls.

    Kuldeep Yadav’s bowling figures were impressive—4 wickets for just 41 runs in 10 overs. Prasidh Krishna also took 4 wickets. With this excellent bowling performance, Indian bowlers took complete control of the match.

    After South Africa’s innings of 270, India needs 271 runs to win. This match is crucial for India in their fight to save the series. The team’s excitement was evident, especially after winning the toss, with bowling coach Morne Morkel congratulating Rahul.

    In this Visakhapatnam match, the aggressive mindset of Indian bowlers and the magic of Chinaman spin seem to have brought a new twist to the series.

  • IPL 2026 : Shah Rukh Khan’s KKR Targeting These Four Potential Stars in the Auction!

    IPL 2026 : Shah Rukh Khan’s KKR Targeting These Four Potential Stars in the Auction!

    After a disappointing IPL 2025 (IPL 2026) campaign, the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) champions in 2024 are ready to rebuild and fight again. The team finished eighth last season, winning only five out of 14 matches. A change in captaincy, out-of-form batters, and inconsistent performances made the season one to forget.

    1. Luke Wood: Adding New Firepower to the Pace Attack

    England’s Luke Wood could be a smart pick for KKR. With over 210 wickets in 199 T20 matches and an economy rate of 8.42, he brings swing, variation, and experience across leagues like the PSL, ILT20, and BPL.
    His ability to swing the ball both ways — especially the inswinger to right-handers — gives KKR a useful weapon.
    Though he got limited opportunities at Mumbai Indians in 2024, KKR could offer him a bigger role.

    2. Tom Banton: The Wicketkeeping Solution?

    Once seen as England’s next T20 superstar, Tom Banton has returned to form. Across leagues like the ILT20 and Vitality Blast, he has scored 4700+ runs with a strike rate close to 144.
    KKR struggled heavily in the wicketkeeper-batter position due to the failures of Gurbaz and de Kock.
    Banton’s ability to play spin and accelerate in the middle overs makes him a strong option.
    He was part of KKR in the 2020–21 seasons, and a return could see a more mature version of him.

    3. Prithvi Shaw: Aggression in the Powerplay

    Despite going unsold in IPL 2025, Prithvi Shaw has rediscovered form in domestic cricket, scoring back-to-back centuries in the Buchi Babu tournament.
    KKR’s opening woes were a major weakness last season. Shaw’s 1892 IPL runs and 147+ strike rate make him a dangerous powerplay striker.
    With Ajinkya Rahane’s future uncertain, KKR may look to rebuild their top order around Shaw.

    4. Cameron Green: The Successor to Andre Russell?

    As Andre Russell approaches the twilight of his career, KKR may eye Australia’s Cameron Green as the long-term replacement.
    Across stints with RCB and Mumbai Indians, Green has produced 707 runs and 16 wickets in 29 matches.
    If KKR releases big contracts like Venkatesh Iyer and Anrich Nortje, they can free up nearly 30 crore, giving them the financial space to target Green.
    His flexibility in the batting order and ability to bowl key overs make him a potential superstar all-rounder for the franchise.

    The upcoming trade window presents KKR with a golden opportunity. bSmart recruitment, strategic investments, and the right mix of youth and experience could give the franchise the balance it lacked last season. If their plans work out, the Knight Riders could be back in the championship race as early as the 2026 season.

  • India vs South Africa : Markram’s Century Guides Proteas to Thrilling Four-Wicket Win Over India

    India vs South Africa : Markram’s Century Guides Proteas to Thrilling Four-Wicket Win Over India

    South Africa defeated India by four wickets in a high-scoring second ODI in Raipur on Wednesday, leveling the three-match series 1-1. (India vs South Africa)

    Tata Steel World 25K Kolkata Marks 10th Edition with Inspiring Pacers

    Batting first, India posted a formidable total of 358 for 5. Virat Kohli scored 102 off 93 balls, marking his 53rd ODI century, while Ruturaj Gaikwad notched his maiden ODI hundred, making 105 off 83 balls.

    In response, South Africa chased down the target, scoring 362 for 6 in 49.2 overs. Aiden Markram led the way with a century (110), supported by fifties from Matthew Breetzke (68) and Dewald Brevis (54). This chase equaled the joint-highest successful ODI target against India, previously set by Australia in 2019.

    Despite India’s strong batting performance in front of 60,000 spectators, South Africa capitalized on the dewy conditions to chase the total. When Brevis was dismissed for 54 off 34 balls, South Africa still needed 70 runs from 57 balls with six wickets in hand.

    A brief collapse saw Breetzke and Marco Jansen fall in successive overs, leaving South Africa needing 37 off 33 balls with four wickets remaining. Tony de Zorzi’s potential hamstring injury added further tension to the chase, joining Nandre Burger, who had left the field earlier due to injury.

    Ultimately, South Africa required 27 runs from 30 balls. Corbin Bosch’s aggressive batting, combined with Keshav Maharaj’s calm finishing, guided them to victory, leaving India to rue missed opportunities. Early dropped chances, especially the drop of Markram, proved costly, allowing South Africa to build a strong platform and complete the thrilling chase.

    Score Summary:

    South Africa: 362/6 (Markram 110, Breetzke 68, Brevis 54; Arshdeep 2-54, Prasidh 2-85)

    India: 358/5 (Gaikwad 105, Kohli 102; Jansen 2-63)

    Result: South Africa won by 4 wickets

  • India vs Pakistan: Date and venue of India vs Pakistan Blockbuster Match

    India vs Pakistan: Date and venue of India vs Pakistan Blockbuster Match

    The schedule for next year’s T20 World Cup (India vs Pakistan) has finally been released and with the announcement, a fresh wave of cross-border cricket excitement has begun. The month-long cricket festival, set to run through February and March, has one unquestionable highlight — the India vs Pakistan showdown. But this year’s clash comes with a special twist.

    প্রকাশ্যে ভারত-পাক মহারণের দিনক্ষণ, কিন্তু কলকাতায় পেল এই বড় ম্যাচ!

    Due to political tensions and security concerns, Pakistan has refused to play in India. As a result, the ICC has introduced a “hybrid model.” According to this arrangement, all of Pakistan’s group-stage matches will be held in Sri Lanka. Even if Pakistan makes it to the semifinals, those matches too will take place there. And if India and Pakistan meet in the final? That match will also be played at a neutral venue.

    While this decision enhances security assurances, it has also stirred mixed emotions among cricket fans in both countries. An India–Pakistan match is synonymous with intensity, emotion, and electrifying atmosphere — and this time, that atmosphere will engulf the stands of Colombo’s Premadasa Stadium.

    India will begin their campaign on 7 February in Mumbai against the USA. But all eyes are unmistakably fixed on 15 February — the day the two neighbours collide in Colombo. More than just cricket, the match will spark political chatter, media frenzy, and a tidal wave of fan emotion.

    In their recent meetings, India has maintained dominance, but in the T20 format, Pakistan is always dangerous. Colombo’s humid pitch, the evening dew factor, and the psychological element of a neutral venue — all of these could make the match unpredictably thrilling.

    India’s group is comparatively easier, but the Pakistan match remains the toughest challenge for Suryakumar Yadav’s squad. This will be Suryakumar’s first World Cup as captain, and millions of eyes will be watching his sharp cricketing mind and innovative batting under pressure.

    Pakistan, too, may arrive with a refreshed team. Their combination of skilled bowling and unpredictable batting has often troubled India. Their strong record on neutral grounds adds another layer of caution for India.

    At a time when political relations between the two nations remain strained, Sri Lanka will provide a diplomatically balanced and welcoming stage for the most anticipated match of the tournament — with the stadium filled with flags of both countries and fierce rivalry in the stands.

  • T20 World Cup 2026: Kolkata’s Eden Gardens Miss Out on an India Match?

    T20 World Cup 2026: Kolkata’s Eden Gardens Miss Out on an India Match?

    The wait is finally over. ICC has announced the schedule for next year’s T20 World Cup 2026, which will run through February and March. The tournament begins on 7 February, and the final is scheduled for 8 March. Due to the hybrid model, this World Cup will have a special arrangement: Pakistan will not play in India, and all their matches will be held at Sri Lankan venues.

    বিশ্বকাপে ভারত থেকে বঞ্চিত বাংলা, এমন কি ঘটল?

    India will begin their campaign on 7 February in Mumbai, playing against the USA. The most high-profile clash — India vs Pakistan — will be held on 15 February, not in India but in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Under the hybrid model, all of Pakistan’s matches, including a potential semifinal, will be hosted in Sri Lanka. If India and Pakistan both reach the final, that match too will be held at a neutral venue.

    However, one major surprise is that Kolkata’s Eden Gardens did not get a single India match in the group stage. This has already triggered political debates and discussions.

    Is the Group Stage Easy for Suryakumar Yadav’s Team?

    India has been placed in a relatively easy group. Apart from Pakistan, their group includes the Netherlands, Namibia, and the USA.

    India vs USA – 7 February, Mumbai

    India vs Namibia – 12 February, Delhi

    India vs Netherlands – 18 February, Ahmedabad

    World Cup Venues

    Although World Cups generally have eight venues, due to the hybrid model, eight venues have been shared between India and Sri Lanka.

    India’s five venues: Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Chennai, Mumbai, Delhi

    Sri Lanka’s three venues: Colombo, Kandy, Galle

    Group Distribution

    Group A: India, Pakistan, Netherlands, Namibia, USA

    Group B: Sri Lanka, Australia, Zimbabwe, Ireland, Oman

    Group C: England, West Indies, Bangladesh, Nepal, Italy

    Group D: South Africa, New Zealand, Afghanistan, UAE, Canada

    India’s Full Schedule

    7 Feb: India vs USA — Mumbai

    12 Feb: India vs Namibia — Delhi

    15 Feb: India vs Pakistan — Colombo

    18 Feb: India vs Netherlands — Ahmedabad

    Knockout Schedule

    Semifinals — 4 March: Kolkata and Colombo

    Final — 8 March: Ahmedabad
    (But if Pakistan reaches the final, it will be held in Colombo.)