The visitors entered the final day in a commanding position and wasted little time turning their advantage into victory. Brar starred with the ball, claiming six wickets in Sri Lanka A’s second innings to finish with a match haul of 10 wickets, while Sudharsan followed up his first-innings century with an unbeaten knock in the chase.

The result capped a successful tour for India A, which had also won the ODI tri-series involving Sri Lanka A and Afghanistan A earlier in the campaign. The first unofficial Test between India A and Sri Lanka A had ended in a draw.

Resuming the fourth day on 541/8, India A added only two runs before declaring their first innings at 543/9. Saransh Jain remained unbeaten on 70, while injured captain Ruturaj Gaikwad did not come out to bat. The declaration gave India A a substantial first-innings lead of 177 runs after Sri Lanka A had posted 366.

With the match slipping away, Sri Lanka A needed a strong response from their top order. Instead, Brar produced a devastating opening spell with the new ball.

The pacer struck twice in the opening exchanges, dismissing Sohan de Livera and Nuwanidu Fernando. Aaqib Nabi then removed Pawantha Weerasinghe as the hosts collapsed to 9/3, handing India A complete control of the contest.

Sri Lanka A found some resistance through Ashen Bandara, who counterattacked after the early setbacks. The right-hander played aggressively, taking on the Indian bowlers and reaching his half-century in just 47 deliveries. During one over from Brar, Bandara struck three consecutive boundaries to keep the scoreboard moving.

Captain Sahan Arachchige also contributed with a useful innings before being dismissed by Yash Thakur. At lunch, Sri Lanka A had recovered to 115/4 and still harboured hopes of extending the contest.

Those hopes faded quickly after the break.

Brar returned to dismantle the middle order, removing both Anjala Bandara and the well-set Ashen Bandara, who top-scored with 87. While Keshara Nuwantha and Dilum Sudheera attempted to rebuild with brief contributions, wickets continued to fall at regular intervals.

Saransh Jain supported the pace attack effectively and chipped in with two wickets, ensuring Sri Lanka A never gained any sustained momentum.

Brar completed the job in emphatic fashion. He dismissed Sudheera and Dulaj Samuditha to wrap up the innings and finish with remarkable figures of 6 wickets in the second innings. Having already taken four wickets in the first innings, the pacer ended the match with 10 wickets for 145 runs.

Sri Lanka A were eventually bowled out for 209, leaving India A with a target of just 33 runs.

The chase proved to be a mere formality.

Sai Sudharsan, who had laid the foundation for India A’s dominance with a superb 168 in the first innings, continued his fine form in the second innings. The left-hander remained unbeaten on 25 from 22 balls and struck the winning boundary to complete the victory.

Aman Mokalde also remained not out after scoring 11 as India A reached the target without losing a wicket in only 6.2 overs.

The match highlighted the depth of India’s emerging talent pool. Sudharsan’s consistency with the bat and Brar’s match-winning spell with the ball were central to the victory, while contributions from Saransh Jain and other squad members underlined the team's balance.

With a drawn first Test and a commanding win in the second, India A finished the series unbeaten and reinforced their strong record in overseas developmental tours.

According to local forecasts, there is a 55 per cent chance of rain in Manchester during the match window, raising concerns about another disrupted contest. The opening T20I of the series at Chester-le-Street was washed out before England could begin their chase, leaving both teams eager to secure a result this time around.

While weather remains a major talking point, much of the attention from the Indian camp continues to revolve around 15-year-old batting sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi. The teenager has been widely tipped for a debut, but indications from the team management suggest he may have to wait a little longer.

India bowling coach Morne Morkel hinted that the team is unlikely to make significant changes after the first match. He stressed the importance of backing established performers, pointing to Abhishek Sharma’s status as the top-ranked T20 batter and Sanju Samson’s achievements in recent ICC tournaments.

India hold a slight historical advantage over England in the shortest format. The two sides have met 31 times in T20 Internationals, with India winning 18 matches and England 12, while one game ended without a result. In England, however, the rivalry has been more balanced. Of the 10 T20Is played between the teams on English soil, England have won five and India four, with one match abandoned due to rain.

The visitors will take confidence from their recent dominance in bilateral contests. India have won each of the last five T20 series played against England and will be looking to extend that streak.

In the series opener, India recovered from a shaky start after losing two wickets for just six runs. Abhishek Sharma produced a blistering 59 off 24 balls, while captain Shreyas Iyer added a composed 68 from 47 deliveries. Their 82-run partnership helped India post a competitive 189/7 before rain prevented any further play.

Abhishek’s numbers against England have been particularly impressive. Across seven T20 innings against the opposition, he has scored 347 runs at a remarkable strike rate above 219, making him one of India’s key players heading into the Manchester clash.

Among India’s performers in 2026, Ishan Kishan has been the standout batter. He has accumulated 545 runs in 16 T20Is this year at a strike rate close to 200. Left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh has led the bowling charts with 21 wickets from 15 matches.

England, meanwhile, will rely heavily on Jacob Bethell, who has scored 305 runs in 12 T20Is this year, including a century. Veteran leg-spinner Adil Rashid is also approaching a significant milestone. With 164 T20I wickets to his name, he needs two more to become the second-highest wicket-taker in the format’s history.

Old Trafford is traditionally known for offering assistance to both pace bowlers and spinners, although batters have also enjoyed success at the venue. Last year, England smashed 304/2 against South Africa at the ground, registering the first-ever 300-plus T20 score by a Full Member nation.

England have already announced their playing XI, with Jofra Archer returning to the T20 side and Josh Tongue set to make his T20 International debut. The duo replace Saqib Mahmood and Luke Wood in the lineup.

India are expected to field a largely unchanged side, with Sanju Samson, Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer, Tilak Varma and Axar Patel among the likely starters.

With rain threatening once again and both teams carrying plenty of firepower, Saturday’s encounter could prove crucial in shaping the direction of the series—provided the weather allows a full game.

Akashdeep wedding in Varanasi set for June 24; Tilak, Mehendi and Haldi in village Baddi — primary keyword: Akashdeep wedding

Akashdeep wedding — lead
Indian pace bowler Akashdeep is set to marry Akshita from Manikpur village on June 24 in Varanasi, his team confirmed on Friday, as family and villagers began final preparations for a large, traditional ceremony in the bowler’s ancestral village of Baddi. According to the player’s team, the couple will take seven vows at a temple ceremony in the holy city, known to be a favourite of the cricketer.

Ceremony schedule
Tilak rituals will be held on June 21, followed by Mehendi on June 22 and Haldi on June 23, organisers said. The main wedding is scheduled for the morning of June 24, with guests expected to arrive in Varanasi over the next few days. Officials close to the family said invitations have been extended to a number of sports and political figures.

Invitation to minister
Akashdeep personally handed a wedding invitation to Bihar Sports Minister Shreyasi Singh earlier this week, a source in Patna confirmed. “He met the minister and invited her respectfully,” the source said. There is no official confirmation yet on whether the minister will attend, but local party aides said the invitation was warmly received.

Village preparations
Baddi, the cricketer’s ancestral village in Dehri-on-Sone district, has already taken on a festive look. Relatives and villagers have begun decorating homes and streets, while local vendors reported a jump in orders for traditional food and wedding supplies. “People are excited; it’s like a festival,” said a villager who declined to be named. Several dignitaries from the sports world and political circles are expected to travel to Varanasi, sources added.

Player’s journey
Akashdeep’s rise from a small Bihar village to the national set-up has been a notable story in recent years. Born to a family that farms locally, his father was a physical education teacher. The pacer lost his father at 16 and, within six months, also lost his brother — hardships that prompted him to move to Delhi with his sister to pursue cricket, family members recall.

Switch to Bengal
With the Bihar Cricket Association under a ban, Akashdeep moved to Bengal to continue his career. He initially played club cricket in Asansol and later broke into Bengal’s domestic teams after impressing coach Saurashish Lahiri at trials. He represented Bengal in age-group and senior competitions before earning IPL interest.

IPL and international career
Akashdeep has moved around in the Indian Premier League. He was bought by Kolkata Knight Riders for ₹1 crore in the 2026 auction but missed this year’s IPL matches due to injury and fitness issues, team sources said. Earlier, he was purchased by Lucknow Super Giants for ₹8 crore and has also spent time with Royal Challengers Bangalore. He has taken 103 wickets in 29 domestic and T20 fixtures cited in team records.

Notable Test performance
In July 2025 at Edgbaston, Akashdeep produced a rare all‑round show, taking 10 wickets and scoring 66 as a night watchman — becoming the first Indian and the 12th player globally to record 10 wickets and a fifty in the same Test. At the time he dedicated the performance to his sister Akhand Jyoti, who is battling stage-three cancer.

Public interest and logistics
The wedding’s location in Varanasi, a city Akashdeep frequently visits to offer prayers at Kashi Vishwanath, adds religious resonance and is expected to draw pilgrims and fans alongside invited guests. Local authorities in Varanasi are coordinating security and traffic arrangements for the high-profile event, an official in the municipal office said on condition of anonymity.

What’s next
Preparations will intensify over the weekend as guests travel to Varanasi and final rituals are completed in Baddi. Team and family spokespeople said the ceremony will follow traditional customs and is likely to be a private affair for close family, with selected public engagements afterwards.

With Virat Kohli ruled out due to a hamstring injury, Yashasvi Jaiswal emerges as the frontrunner to bat at No. 3; Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya cleared for selection

India’s men’s cricket team is set to experiment with both personnel and batting order in the upcoming three-match ODI series against Afghanistan, starting June 14 in Dharamshala. This marks the first bilateral ODI series between the two nations on Indian soil, and team management is likely to hand out at least two debut caps across the rubber.

Sources close to the selection committee confirmed that Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya have received fitness clearance from the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, making them available for the series. However, Virat Kohli’s absence due to a hamstring strain has opened up the crucial No. 3 slot.

Opening Pair Sorted

Captain Shubman Gill is expected to partner Rohit Sharma at the top of the order. Gill has been in formidable touch this year, amassing 732 runs in IPL 2026 and following it up with 490 runs in 11n international innings across formats. Rohit, despite a mixed IPL campaign plagued by minor injuries, still managed 650 runs in 14 games – including two hundreds – and finished as India’s second-highest ODI run-getter in 2025.

No Kohli, Jaiswal in Contention

With Kohli ruled out, the BCCI has officially named Yashasvi Jaiswal as his replacement. The left-hander has played only four ODIs in 2025 but scored 171 runs including a century. Ishan Kishan remains an option for the middle order, though team management prefers KL Rahul at No. 5, making Jaiswal the likeliest choice for the one-drop position.

Vice-captain Shreyas Iyer is set to bat at No. 4, followed by Rahul at five and Hardik Pandya at six.

Hardik’s Form Under Scanner

IPL 2026 was a forgettable season for the Mumbai Indians all-rounder. In ten innings, Hardik scored just 206 runs and picked only four wickets across nine bowling appearances. His ability to bowl a full quota of ten overs remains an unresolved concern.

“The sports science team has cleared him for competitive cricket, but match situations will be the real test,” a team insider said. If Hardik is rested or fails to deliver, Nitish Reddy – who smashed 302 runs in 14 IPL games this year – is expected to get a look-in.

All-Rounder Puzzle

Washington Sundar and Hardik will form the core all-round foundation. Washington was impressive against Australia in the third ODI, taking four wickets, and carried that form into the home series against South Africa. In case Hardik misses out, Nitish Reddy provides a like-for-like replacement.

With Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel not part of the squad, Vidarbha’s Harsh Dubey is in line for an ODI debut. Dubey finished as the highest wicket-taker in Ranji Trophy 2024-25 with 69 scalps, playing a key role in Vidarbha’s title win.

Pacer Face-Off: Arshdeep or Prince?

Arshdeep Singh has been India’s pace mainstay across formats, but his tendency to concede extras – especially wide deliveries – remains a recurring issue. “When he loses his line, especially the wide yorker, boundaries flow to third man and fine leg,” a bowling coach familiar with his game noted.

Prince Yadav, meanwhile, has impressed with his disciplined length. The youngster claimed the prized wicket of Virat Kohli in IPL 2026 and finished with 16 wickets in 14 games at an economy of 8.83. With head coach Gautam Gambhir keen to audition new names, Prince could get the nod over Arshdeep in at least one ODI.

Gurnoor Brar, the 6-foot-5 Punjab pacer who took 11 wickets in eight Vijay Hazare matches, is also expected to feature.

Possible Playing XI

Wicketkeeper: KL Rahul  

Batters: Shubman Gill (captain), Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shreyas Iyer (vice-captain)  

All-rounders: Hardik Pandya, Washington Sundar, Harsh Dubey, Nitish Reddy  

Bowlers: Prince Yadav, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh

Series Schedule

The three ODIs will be played on June 14 (Dharamshala), June 17 (Lucknow) and June 20 (Chennai). All matches start at 1:30 PM IST.

The much-anticipated Test match between India and Afghanistan, beginning on June 6 in New Chandigarh, is being viewed as more than just another fixture in the international calendar. It brings together two teams at very different stages of their Test cricket journeys. While India continue their preparations for future World Test Championship campaigns, Afghanistan remain focused on building consistency and experience in the longest format of the game.

One of the most striking numbers ahead of the match involves Indian captain Shubman Gill. The right-handed batter has accumulated 2,843 runs in Test cricket, surpassing the combined tally of 2,388 runs scored by all current Afghanistan Test players in the squad. The statistic reflects the vast difference in exposure and experience between the two teams.

India enter the contest with a batting lineup packed with proven performers. KL Rahul remains the most experienced batter in the squad, having scored more than 4,000 runs in Test cricket. Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has also established himself as a key player in the middle order with several match-winning performances. Gill, meanwhile, carries the responsibility of leading a new generation of Indian cricketers and is expected to play a central role both as captain and batter.

Experience Gap Evident

Afghanistan’s batting unit will largely depend on captain Hashmatullah Shahidi and senior batter Rahmat Shah. Both players have contributed significantly to Afghanistan’s Test journey, but beyond them, the squad lacks extensive red-ball experience.

Reports suggest that the absence of some of Afghanistan’s most recognized names has further reduced the team's experience level. As a result, younger players will have an opportunity to prove themselves against one of the strongest Test sides in world cricket.

The contrast becomes even more pronounced when bowling records are compared. Afghanistan’s current squad has collected only 13 Test wickets collectively, whereas Indian bowlers have accounted for 281 wickets.

India's Bowling Strength

Fast bowler Mohammed Siraj leads India's attack with 139 Test wickets, a figure that is more than ten times the total wickets taken by the current Afghanistan squad. Spinner Kuldeep Yadav has also emerged as a reliable wicket-taking option and provides India with variety in the bowling department.

According to team management indications, India may experiment with combinations involving two specialist fast bowlers, one frontline spinner, and multiple all-rounders. The move is believed to be part of long-term planning ahead of future overseas assignments and major ICC competitions.

Afghanistan, meanwhile, will view the match as an opportunity to test themselves against elite opposition. The team has shown steady progress since making its Test debut and continues to gain valuable experience with every international outing.

Officials and cricket analysts believe the fixture could provide important lessons for Afghanistan's developing red-ball structure while allowing India to assess new tactical options. The match is also expected to attract significant attention from fans eager to see how Afghanistan compete against one of the world's leading Test teams.

Looking ahead, the contest could serve as a benchmark for Afghanistan's future growth in Test cricket. For India, it represents another step in strengthening squad depth and identifying combinations that can succeed in upcoming international challenges.

New Delhi lit up for Indian cricket on Sunday night. The BCCI Naman Awards 2026, held on March 15 at a glittering ceremony in the capital, brought together India's cricketing royalty — past and present — to celebrate a season unlike any other in the history of the sport. At the centre of it all stood two names: Shubman Gill and Smriti Mandhana, both walking away with the highest individual honours in Indian cricket.

This was not just an awards night. It was a celebration of a golden era — one that saw India win five ICC trophies in a single cycle, a feat never achieved before by any nation in cricket history.

Shubman Gill: The Polly Umrigar Award — For the Second Time

Shubman Gill, India's Test and ODI captain, was named the Best Men's International Cricketer for the 2024–25 season, winning the prestigious Polly Umrigar Award for the second time in his career — the first being in 2023.

The 26-year-old had a year that was nothing short of exceptional. In the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025 against England, Gill topped the run charts with 754 runs from just 10 innings at a breathtaking average of 75.40. He then entered the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 as the world's number one ranked ODI batter — and delivered. A stunning unbeaten 101 against Bangladesh in the tournament opener set the tone for a campaign that ended with India lifting the trophy. Gill finished that tournament with 188 runs.

Collecting his award on Sunday night, Gill was visibly moved. "Firstly, thank you to the BCCI for recognising me with this award. Many greats and legends of Indian cricket have received it before, so it is a huge honour for me to be here. What we as an Indian cricket group were able to achieve last year was truly tremendous — five ICC trophies, something I don't think has ever happened before," he said. He went on to thank his teammates, parents, and fans before wishing all Indian teams continued success on the global stage.

Smriti Mandhana: A Record Fifth Time — In a Year That Redefined Women's Cricket

If Gill's story was remarkable, Smriti Mandhana's was historic. The left-handed batter from Karnataka was named the Best Women's International Cricketer for a record fifth time — a number that places her in an entirely different category from every other player in the history of the award.

The numbers behind the award tell the story clearly. Mandhana finished 2025 with 1,703 international runs — including 1,362 in ODIs alone, the most runs scored by any woman cricketer in a single calendar year. She became the first batter in women's ODI history to cross the 1,000-run mark in a single calendar year. She also set a new record for the most ODI centuries in a calendar year, smashing five hundreds in 2025.

Her contribution to India's maiden Women's ODI World Cup victory was central. Mandhana aggregated 434 runs across nine matches, finishing as India's leading run scorer and the second-highest overall in the entire tournament. Before the World Cup, she had already thrilled fans everywhere with a stunning 50-ball century against Australia in New Delhi — the fastest ODI hundred by an Indian batter, surpassing Virat Kohli's 52-ball record.

She also picked up the Highest Run Getter in Women's ODIs award separately on the same night — a double recognition that underlined just how dominant her 2025 was.

Rahul Dravid, Roger Binny, and Mithali Raj: Legends Honoured for a Lifetime

The evening belonged not just to the present generation but also to those who built the foundation for it.

Rahul Dravid, the architect of India's 2024 T20 World Cup triumph as head coach, received the Col. C.K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award — the BCCI's highest honour. Dravid's contribution to Indian cricket spans three decades — as a technically flawless Test batter, as a mentor to an entire generation of young players through the NCA, and as the calm, methodical coach who helped India end their T20 World Cup drought.

Roger Binny, the BCCI President and a member of India's legendary 1983 World Cup-winning team, received the same Lifetime Achievement Award. Binny had finished the 1983 World Cup as its highest wicket-taker — a statistic that still astounds — and later coached India's Under-19 team to a World Cup title in 2000.

Mithali Raj received the BCCI Lifetime Achievement Award for Women — a recognition long overdue for a woman who transformed the landscape of women's cricket in India. As the highest run scorer in women's ODIs with 7,805 runs at an average of 50.68, and a captain who led India to two Women's World Cup finals, Raj's legacy is immeasurable.

Five Trophy-Winning Teams Felicitated — A Night of Collective Glory

The ceremony also celebrated the most extraordinary team achievement in Indian cricket history. Five ICC trophy-winning squads were felicitated on stage together for the first time, representing a sweep of global tournaments that no cricket-playing nation has ever matched.

The five teams honoured were: the Men's team that won the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, the Women's team that won the maiden ODI World Cup 2025, the Women's U-19 team that won their World Cup in 2025, the Men's U-19 team that won the World Cup in 2026, and the Men's senior team that won the T20 World Cup 2026.

Seeing all five squads on stage together was a moment that summed up exactly why Indian cricket — men's and women's, senior and junior — is the most formidable cricket programme on the planet right now.

Other Notable Winners on the Night

The Naman Awards also recognised excellence in domestic cricket and emerging talent. Harshit Rana was named Best International Debut in the men's category, while N Sree Charani took the same honour in women's cricket. Deepti Sharma was recognised as the highest wicket-taker in Women's ODIs. Ayush Mhatre of Mumbai won the Lala Amarnath Award for best domestic limited-overs all-rounder, while Vidarbha's Harsh Dubey claimed the same honour in the longer format. Shafali Verma was honoured as the Best Senior Women's Domestic Cricketer of the season.

The Mumbai Cricket Association was recognised for the Best Performance in BCCI Domestic Tournaments — a fitting nod to Mumbai's enduring status as the cradle of Indian domestic cricket.

A Golden Era — And It Is Not Over Yet

As the lights went down on the Naman Awards 2026, one thought dominated every conversation in the room: this generation of Indian cricketers is extraordinary. The combination of Gill's serene strokeplay, Mandhana's blazing aggression, and a team culture built over years of disciplined excellence has put India in a position no cricket nation has ever occupied.

Five ICC trophies. Two individual champions. Three legends honoured for a lifetime of service. One unforgettable night in New Delhi.

Indian cricket has never looked this good — and judging by what is on the horizon, the best may still be to come.

With the first semifinal scheduled for March 4, followed by the second semifinal on March 5 and the grand finale on March 8, the race to secure seats is about to heat up.

But here is the twist: where these matches are played depends heavily on which teams make the cut—specifically, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.

Where Will the First Semifinal Be Played? It's Complicated

While the second semifinal is locked in at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium on March 5, the venue for the first semifinal remains fluid. The ICC has announced two potential host cities: Colombo's R Premadasa Stadium or Kolkata's iconic Eden Gardens.

The final call will be made based on the qualifying teams. Here is how it breaks down:

- If Pakistan qualifies: They will play the first semifinal in Colombo on March 4.

- If Pakistan fails to qualify but Sri Lanka makes it (and is not scheduled to face India), the match stays in Colombo.

- If neither condition is met, or if the fixture becomes India vs. Sri Lanka, the first semifinal shifts to Eden Gardens in Kolkata.

This conditional hosting is unprecedented and adds a layer of suspense for fans planning to travel or book accommodations.

Final Venue Also on the Line

The March 8 final is similarly contingent on Pakistan's performance. If the Men in Green reach the title clash, Colombo will host the final. If they bow out earlier, the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad—the world's largest cricket stadium—will stage the championship match.

For fans eyeing the final, this means holding off on travel plans until the semifinal results are in.

Full Refund Guarantee: ICC Protects Fans from Venue Changes

Recognizing the logistical headache this could cause, the ICC has rolled out a fan-first refund policy. If you purchase a ticket for a specific venue and the match is later relocated due to team qualification rules, you will receive a full refund.

This ensures that no fan is left out of pocket if plans change at the last minute. It also encourages early booking despite the uncertainty, as tickets are expected to sell out fast.

How to Book Tickets

Tickets for all three knockout matches are available exclusively through the official portal: tickets.t20worldcup.com.

Categories range from general admission to premium seating, and with global cricket fans vying for limited seats, early booking is strongly advised.

Why This Matters Now

With the tournament entering its business end, the T20 World Cup knockout tickets launch marks the final countdown. The conditional venue rules—directly tied to Pakistan and Sri Lanka's performance—add a geopolitical and strategic layer rarely seen in cricket scheduling.

For fans in India, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan, this is not just about watching a match; it is about being in the right city at the right time. And thanks to the refund policy, the risk of booking early is now virtually zero.

Final Takeaway: Book your tickets from tonight. Cheer for your team. And keep an eye on the Pakistan vs. Sri Lanka results—they might just decide where you end up watching the action live.

India's cricket juggernaut rolls on in the T20 World Cup, with eyes locked on a 12th consecutive victory against a knocked-out Netherlands in their final Group A clash at Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad. Fresh off a commanding 61-run thrashing of Pakistan that sealed Super 8 qualification, the Men in Blue take the field today, using this dead rubber as a dress rehearsal for bigger battles.

Abhishek Sharma's Powerplay Puzzle

Abhishek Sharma, the 25-year-old opener, is under the spotlight in India vs Netherlands T20 World Cup action. Yet to open his account, he's notched golden ducks against USA and Pakistan, plus missed the Namibia game due to a stomach bug—four ducks in his last six innings. His high-risk style has fueled India's wins before, but experts like assistant coach Sitanshu Kotak urge tweaks. "No experiments in the XI," Kotak confirmed Tuesday, hinting at stability. Will Abhishek explode today, or stick to caution in the powerplay?

Meanwhile, Ishan Kishan shines as India's top scorer with 158 runs, just 16 shy of the tournament lead. A big knock from him could propel India past 200 on this high-scoring Ahmedabad deck, where the average run rate hits 9 per over—perfect prep for their Super 8 opener against South Africa here.

Spin Struggles and Bowling Tweaks

India's batters face scrutiny against spin after Namibia's Gerhard Erasmus and Pakistan's Usman Tariq rattled them. Suryakumar Yadav's side eyes a steady powerplay rate. Bowling-wise, expect Mohammed Siraj's return paired with Jasprit Bumrah. Varun Chakravarthy (6 wickets) and Axar Patel may edge out Kuldeep Yadav, ditching experiments per Kotak.

Head-to-head, India dominates Netherlands with a lone T20I win by 56 runs in Sydney—Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Suryakumar's fifties powered 179/2, while bowlers like Bhuvneshwar and Arshdeep choked them to 123/9.

Ahmedabad Weather and Pitch Buzz

Warm evenings await, with temps from 21-34°C, no rain, but 22 km/h winds could sway the game. Narendra Modi Stadium, a T20 World Cup final contender, favors batsmen—India must exploit it for momentum into Super 8.

This India vs Netherlands T20 World Cup fixture matters now as a tune-up amid Abhishek Sharma's form dip and spin woes. A flawless outing sharpens the blade for knockout glory. Stay tuned for live updates—will the Men in Blue hit 12 in a row?

Veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has handed Indian batters a tactical weapon to neutralize Pakistan's mystery spinner Usman Tariq in the high-stakes T20 World Cup showdown on February 15—simply step away if the bowler pauses during his delivery stride.

The controversial pause-and-sling action of Pakistan's Usman Tariq has ignited a firestorm of debate just days before the marquee India-Pakistan clash in Colombo . With the T20 World Cup encounter set for February 15 at the R Premadasa Stadium, the cricket world remains divided over whether the spinner's unorthodox action crosses the line into illegality .

Ashwin's tactical masterstroke

Speaking on his YouTube show 'Ash Ki Baat', the legendary Indian spinner proposed a daring strategy that could turn the tables on Pakistan's trump card .

"There is one thing I want to see. Who dares to do that?" Ashwin challenged. "If Tariq pauses before delivery, the batter has the right to move away. The batter can say, 'I don't know when the ball is coming, so I moved away'" .

Ashwin emphasized this falls well within cricket's laws and could create a massive headache for on-field umpires. "That will be an interesting case and a huge headache for the umpire. The umpire will have to decide whether to warn the bowler or the batter. Odds are, and that is how cricket has worked, the bowler will be warned first" .

The veteran off-spinner didn't mince words about his own approach. "If I was there I would have done it. One should do everything to win a game within rules. I would simply say I don't know when he will release the ball and step away" .

'I have two elbows': Tariq breaks silence

Amid the swirling controversy, old videos of the Pakistan spinner have resurfaced where he explains his unique biological makeup . In a 2025 interview, the 28-year-old made a startling revelation about his physical condition.

"I have a unique action because my body dimension is unique. My body frame is not like that of a common person. I do have two elbows in my arm," Tariq explained .

In another video posted by his ILT20 franchise Desert Vipers, Tariq demonstrated his unusual anatomy. "These two corners make my hand really hard to stretch fully. I can't straighten my hand. It will remain bent, which creates confusion for spectators. I have given two tests in Pakistan labs and my action was cleared" .

Addressing his critics directly, Tariq remained defiant. "I am confident about my action because I am not throwing. Some of them are also talking about the pause. Every single person who is commenting on these things should study cricket first and then make these allegations" .

Cricket fraternity divided

The 'chucking debate' has split opinions across the cricketing world. Former Indian cricketer Shreevats Goswami expressed strong reservations about Tariq's pause. "How is this ok? Action—all good. But pause? That too while loading to deliver. This can't be continued seriously!" he posted on X .

However, several prominent voices have rallied behind the Pakistan spinner. Ashwin himself previously came to Tariq's defense, stating the pause is entirely legal as it constitutes his regular action . Aakash Chopra and Priyank Panchal also backed the bowler, with Panchal noting the pause is an "old tactic" used even in domestic cricket .

Australian wicketkeeper Usman Khawaja offered perspective on the human cost of such accusations. "There aren't many things worse than being called a 'chucker' in cricket. The stigma is real. The man is just doing his best and been cleared twice. Let's have some perspective and understanding and stop jumping to conclusions" .

What's at stake

With both India and Pakistan undefeated in the tournament so far, the February 15 clash carries enormous significance . The winner secures direct Super 8 qualification, while the loser faces a must-win final group match .

For Tariq, this represents a dream opportunity. "I wish there's a match against India and I can win the game for Pakistan single-handedly," he had said months ago . Now, with the boycott drama resolved and Pakistan confirming their participation, that wish stands on the verge of realization .

As Ashwin noted, the real test begins when Tariq runs in to bowl. "Imagine the pressure on Usman Tariq in the middle of the match. It would be an incredible joyride. He is the ace up their sleeves, imagine what he becomes if the batsman reacts like that" .

Pure pandemonium at Arun Jaitley Stadium. A fan jumped the fence, sprinted across the outfield, and wrapped Hardik Pandya in a massive hug on “Hug Day” during India’s blockbuster T20 World Cup clash against Namibia. Security tackled the intruder within seconds, but the moment has already gone mega-viral.

India posted a mammoth 209/9 and bowled out Namibia for 116, winning by a whopping 93 runs to register their 10th straight T20 World Cup victory.

 India’s Batting Fireworks

Asked to bat first, the Men in Blue went berserk.  

Ishan Kishan smashed a 20-ball fifty – the joint-fifth fastest by an Indian in the tournament’s history. His 61 off 24 balls set the tone.  

Hardik Pandya then joined the party with a quickfire 52 off 28, including a monstrous 109-metre six off Bernard Scholtz that cleared the stands.  

Two balls earlier, Shivam Dube had already sent the same bowler into the second tier with a 107-metre rocket over mid-wicket.

Namibia’s captain Gerhard Erasmus was the lone bright spot with the ball, picking up 4/20, but it wasn’t enough.

 Namibia’s Brave Fight & Heartwarming Moment

The African side started their chase with intent, but India’s spinners turned the game upside down.  

Varun Chakaravarthy was unplayable – a first-ball googly that ripped out Lauren Steenkamp’s middle stump, followed by three wickets in two overs.  

Axar Patel and Hardik grabbed two each, while Jasprit Bumrah pulled off a stunning diving catch that left everyone stunned.

The funniest moment? On the last ball of the 12th over, Dube smashed one straight at Erasmus, who collided with Hardik at the non-striker’s end. Hardik fell flat. Erasmus, with a huge smile, dropped down and did push-ups with Hardik on his back. Pure cricket camaraderie.

 Records Keep Tumbling

- India’s 209/9 is the third-highest total in T20 World Cup history.  

- This win marks their 10th consecutive victory in the tournament – no other team has done better.  

- Google Trends showed a massive spike in searches for “India vs Namibia” right from the toss, proving the match captured the nation’s attention.

 What It Means Right Now

With the T20 World Cup heating up, India look unstoppable. The batting depth, bowling variety, and even the crowd energy – everything is clicking. The fan hug moment, though against rules, showed the insane love Indian fans have for their heroes during Valentine’s week.

As one X user put it: “Security did their job, but that hug was the real six of the night!”

India now march on with full confidence. Namibia fought hard but were simply outgunned.  

Cricket is love. And sometimes, that love literally runs onto the field.  

India on Fire After Early Wobble in T20 World Cup Clash

India have bounced back strongly in their second Group A match of the T20 World Cup 2026. At the Arun Jaitley Stadium, the defending champions reached 190/4 in 17 overs against Namibia, with Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube smashing the bowling around. A total well above 220 now looks very much on the cards.

Namibia won the toss and elected to bowl first, hoping the dew would help them later. But India’s top order made a blazing start before a middle-overs fightback from the associate nation.

Record-Breaking Powerplay Sets the Tone

India got off to a flyer. Openers Sanju Samson and Ishan Kishan attacked from ball one. Samson smashed a couple of early sixes before falling to Ben Shikongo. Kishan then took over, smashing a 20-ball fifty and helping India race to their hundred in just 6.5 overs — the fastest team 100 in T20 World Cup history.

Tilak Varma joined Kishan and kept the momentum going. At the end of the powerplay, India were 86/1 and looked set for a 250-plus total.

Namibia’s Spinners Strike Back

The script changed when Namibia captain Gerhard Erasmus introduced himself and Bernard Scholtz. The spinners slowed things down cleverly. 

First, Erasmus got rid of Ishan Kishan (61 off 24 balls). Then Suryakumar Yadav, the Indian captain, was stumped while trying to accelerate. Tilak Varma followed soon after, caught while attempting a big shot. In no time, India slipped from 120/2 to 124/4.

Namibia’s fightback was impressive. Gary Kirsten, India’s 2011 World Cup-winning coach and now Namibia’s consultant, would have been proud of the discipline shown by his current team.

Hardik and Dube Take Charge

That’s when Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube stepped up. The two all-rounders launched a brutal counter-attack. Hardik played some elegant drives and big sixes, while Dube used his power to clear the ropes regularly.

Their fifty-run partnership came up quickly. In the 16th over alone, 16 runs came, and the 15th over yielded 24 runs. By the end of 17 overs, India stood at 190/4, with both batters looking dangerous. A score of 220 or even 230 is now very much possible.

Key Changes and Team News

India made two big changes. Sanju Samson replaced the unwell Abhishek Sharma, who is out with a stomach infection and might miss the big clash against Pakistan too. Jasprit Bumrah returned after recovering from viral fever and will lead the pace attack alongside Arshdeep Singh.

Namibia brought in Ben Shikongo and an extra batter, trying to tighten their bowling.

What Next for India?

This match is more than just two points for India. After a nervy win over USA in the opener, the batters needed confidence. Hardik and Dube are delivering exactly that.

With three overs left, the Men in Blue will look to finish strongly. Namibia face a tough task chasing on a good batting surface, especially with Bumrah and Arshdeep waiting in the second innings.

Stay tuned for more live updates from this India vs Namibia T20 World Cup 2026 encounter. The defending champions are firmly in control and sending a strong message ahead of tougher battles.

Kohli & Rohit Chase History: 42 Runs & 16,000 ODI Milestones in New Zealand Series

As India’s 2026 cricket season kicks off, all eyes are on two modern legends—Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma—who stand on the verge of rewriting record books in the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand. Starting January 11 in Vadodara, the three-match series isn’t just about a fresh year; it’s about legacy, numbers, and a historic push by the iconic “Ro-Ko” duo.

Both veterans last played in India’s ODI win against South Africa and tuned up with runs in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Now, with New Zealand in their sights, a parade of milestones awaits.

Kohli’s Hunt: Passing Sangakkara, Chasing Tendulkar

Virat Kohli enters the series just 42 runs away from becoming the second-highest run-scorer in international cricket, surpassing Sri Lankan great Kumar Sangakkara. With 27,975 international runs, Kohli sits behind only Sangakkara and the legendary Sachin Tendulkar.

But that’s just one of several records within reach:

- 25 runs would make him the fastest to 28,000 international runs, beating Tendulkar’s 644-inning mark (Kohli is at 623 innings).

- 94 runs will make him India’s highest ODI run-scorer against New Zealand.

- 227 runs could see him become the highest run-scorer at No. 3 in ODI history.

“Kohli’s consistency in ODI cricket is surreal,” notes cricket analyst Rohan Mehta. “Every series now is a tribute to his endurance and class. Passing Sangakkara will be another jewel in his crown.”

Rohit Sharma: Opening Greatness and Sixes Record

At the other end, captain Rohit Sharma is chasing his own set of monumental feats:

- He is 67 runs away from completing 16,000 runs as an opener in international cricket.

- One more century will give him the most centuries by an opener (46), breaking the tie with Sachin Tendulkar.

- He needs 224 runs to overtake Inzamam-ul-Haq as the seventh-highest ODI run-scorer of all time.

And let’s not forget the sixes—Rohit is two sixes away from having the most sixes as an opener in ODIs, and seven away from being the leading six-hitter against New Zealand in internationals.

Why This Series Matters Now

In a cricket calendar packed with franchise leagues, this ODI series brings a refreshing focus back to national colors and historic benchmarks. For fans, 2026 begins with the rare chance to witness two active legends simultaneously chasing career-defining numbers.

“These aren’t just personal milestones,” says former India coach WV Raman. “They are markers of excellence that inspire the next generation. Every run Kohli and Rohit score now etches their names deeper into cricket’s folklore.”

What to Watch in Vadodara

When India takes the field at Kotambi Stadium, history will be in motion. Can Kohli get those 42 runs in the first match itself? Will Rohit begin his march toward 16,000? With both in good touch, the New Zealand bowlers will have their hands full.