New Delhi, Aug 27 (SocialNews.XYZ) Purani Dilli 6 have their sights firmly set on a place in the Delhi Premier League (DPL) 2026 final after storming into Qualifier 2 with a convincing seven-wicket victory over Outer Delhi Warriors in the Eliminator at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi on Wednesday.

The franchise, which has shown remarkable improvement this season, will now face Central Delhi Kings in Qualifier 2 on Friday. A win will take Purani Dilli 6 into the final, where South Delhi Superstarz are already waiting.

The Eliminator showcased the team’s all-round strength. After restricting Outer Delhi Warriors to 179, Purani Dilli 6 chased down the target with seven wickets in hand, led by a sensational 82 off 32 balls from Dev Lakra and a composed unbeaten 52 off 25 balls from captain Anuj Rawat.

The victory has further strengthened the belief within the Purani Dilli 6 camp as the team looks to complete a remarkable turnaround this season.

Purani Dilli 6 owner Akash Nangia said, “This team has shown tremendous character throughout the season. What makes me particularly proud is the way the players have stood up for each other and continued to believe in themselves.

The win against Outer Delhi Warriors was a complete team effort, and performances like Dev Lakra’s and Anuj Rawat’s showed the confidence and intent we have been looking for.”

He added, “We are now just one game away from the final, but we know Central Delhi Kings will be a strong challenge. Our focus is to stay composed, trust the process, and give our best on Friday. The players have worked extremely hard for this opportunity, and we want to make the most of it. The support from our fans has also been incredible, and we hope to give them another memorable performance.”

Purani Dilli 6’s bowling unit set the platform in the Eliminator, with Udhav Mohan returning impressive figures of 2/25, while Dev Lakra contributed with the ball as well, picking up 2/14 in two overs. Rajneesh Dadar claimed three wickets to help restrict the Warriors to 179.

In the run chase, the early dismissal of Samarth Seth did little to unsettle Purani Dilli 6. Aryan Gaur and Lakra added 67 runs for the second wicket before Lakra launched a breathtaking counter-attack. His 32-ball 82 ensured that the required run rate remained firmly under control.

Captain Anuj Rawat then finished the job in style, remaining unbeaten on 52 off 25 balls as Purani Dilli 6 completed the chase with seven wickets in hand.

Qualifier 2 against Central Delhi Kings on Friday will determine who joins South Delhi Superstarz in the DPL 2026 final.

Source: IANS

The post DPL 2026: Purani Dilli 6 eye final berth; set to face Central Delhi Kings in Qualifier 2 appeared first on Social News XYZ.

Patiala, Aug 27 (SocialNews.XYZ) The 2026 Commonwealth Games gold medallist Arundhati Chaudhary on Thursday attended the 'Khelo India Dialogue', a virtual address by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Chaudhary reacted to Modi's address to the youth as she highlighted that the PM is standing with the athletes at all times, be it a win or a loss.

"Through this event, the youth would have got a glimpse that PM Modi always stands with the youth, whether they win or lose. Whenever we return from a competition, the PM interacts with us. He discusses our wins and losses. If we lose, he motivates us not to bog down and keep working hard," she said after attending the virtual briefing.

Students of Punjabi University also shared their experiences at the event. B.Tech student Anshul Auluwalia said the 'Khelo India Dialogue' allowed him to learn about the changes taking place in sports and the government’s sports policies.

Meanwhile, university student and NSS volunteer Khushdeep Kaur said hearing about athletes' struggles, injuries, and experiences from their sporting careers was highly motivating for the students. She said the hard work and determination of athletes are an inspiration for young people.

B.Tech student Gauri said she had stopped playing sports some time ago, but after participating in the 'Khelo India' program, she once again felt motivated to return to sports. She said that students should participate in sports alongside their studies.

During his address, the Prime Minister called for India to broaden its participation across Olympic disciplines, saying the country must develop athletes in sports where it has traditionally had little or no representation, as part of preparations for the 2036 Olympics.

Addressing the youngsters, Modi said a nationwide talent hunt targeting children aged 5 to 15 would be crucial for identifying athletes early and training them in sports suited to their abilities.

"This time, from the Red Fort, I drew the country's attention to a major challenge in sports. This challenge is related to the Olympics. The bitter truth is that India's teams don't participate in half of the sports that are a part of the Olympics," he said.

PM Modi said India's limited participation had remained a longstanding concern and directly affected the country's prospects in the overall medal standings. "That is, we do not compete for a very large part of the medal tally. And this has been the situation for a long time now. In the 2012 Olympics, India participated in only 13 sports. In more than 20 sports, India did not participate."

The Prime Minister cited disciplines such as surfing and sports climbing as areas where India could build a stronger presence, given the country's diverse geography.

"There are so many sports whose names people in the country have probably heard of. Other countries win medals in those sports. And we do not participate in those sports. We have to acquire the skills in these sports to increase the medal tally in these sports as well. For example, surfing and sports climbing," he added.

Source: IANS

The post ‘PM Modi always stands with athletes’: Arundhati Chaudhary after Khelo India Dialogue appeared first on Social News XYZ.

New Delhi, Aug 27 (SocialNews.XYZ) For Hong Kong China left-arm wrist-spinner Kary Chan, a brief hospital stay due to diarrhoea was merely a minor speed bump on the road to a dream of featuring in this year’s Women’s Asia Cup. Known as Ka Ying Chan on the team sheet, Kary is one of only seven bowlers in history to surpass 150 Women’s T20I wickets.

But on the eve of the side opening their campaign against Thailand at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Kary can barely process the reality awaiting her team at the tournament, where they will also face off against Pakistan and heavyweights, seven-time tournament winners India.

“Oh my god, we just think it's very unreal because we were always just watching, like, maybe the India or Pakistan team play on TV, and we didn't really have a chance to face them.

“So all of us, when we qualified (via the 2026 Women’s Premier Cup), were just very excited and we were just like, ‘We don't think it's come true.’ We really thought it was like a dream. All of us are just so excited now and can't wait for it,” Kary told IANS in an exclusive conversation facilitated by Sony Sports Network.

For Kary, bowling to the players she has long watched on her TV and mobile screens brings a surreal mix of reverence and competitive fire. “I don't know how to express this feeling because I learned my cricket by seeing those players on screen, and now I'm going to play against them. Like I need to bowl to them and bat against their bowling.

“It's a very nervous feeling, to be honest, but the main thing is that I am really excited. I learned a lot of cricket skills from them and also watched a lot of cricket videos and games to improve my cricket. So now it's a chance to show them what our level is.”

Preparation in Sri Lanka offered the squad vital exposure to conditions and bowling variations similar to what they expect in Dubai. “We got to face a lot of different bowlers – like left-arm bowlers we have never faced before. It’s a bit similar to what we will be facing in the Asia Cup, because there are a lot of bowlers that we have never faced from the India or Pakistan sides.

“It was a good chance to face those different bowlers to prepare for the games, especially since the wicket is quite similar to what it will be in Dubai. So in terms of the time we spent practising for the team and for the Asia Cup, I think we got ready in Sri Lanka and fully prepared ourselves for it.”

Behind the excitement lies a transformed squad, elevated by professional standards brought in by former India captain Mamatha Maben, currently their head coach. “Having Maben in our team is a very big thing for us because she used to captain India, and she also has a lot of international playing and coaching experience.

“From the time she came to coach us, I feel like we have had to go to the next level and adopt a new mindset, because her mindset is mainly about high quality, professionalism, and how to be the best of the best. When she came into the team, she changed us a lot - not only skill-wise, but especially mentally, in how we prepare for the game, our daily routine, and all these small details we thought were not important. Once she brought all that culture to us, it made us become better cricketers.”

Alongside Maben, their strength and conditioning coach Tanuja Lele, who has spent considerable time in the Indian cricket ecosystem, has reshaped her fitness routine over the last three months.

“We got a very good S&C joining us to help us know what to eat, what not to eat, and what we need to do. Before, we had a trainer from another sport, but it wasn't specific to cricket. Now we have a trainer who knows so much about cricket, and that's why she can provide us with a very good program to let us know, as a cricketer, bowler, and batter, what kind of program we need.

“It keeps me motivated because she also used to train players on the Indian side. It makes me feel like, 'Okay, if I follow what she is asking us to do, maybe one day we can get closer to their level.' It's not easy, but to be honest, I am quite enjoying it.”

The focus under the new coaching staff has shifted toward adopting elite mental habits. “Both Maben and our S&C coach worked for India too - so they shared with us, not specifically how Indian players do things, but what a great cricketer's mindset should be, because at this moment, our skills are already set.

“What we have is already there - we can't change it too much. The main thing is how we are going to put that legendary mindset into our heads to become better cricketers and play our best game against them.”

The path has also required overcoming significant infrastructural hurdles at home, especially as they have only one main ground and get roughly three hours thrice a week, combined with boys and girls, to practice.

“I feel that different teams or countries face different problems. Yes, we have a venue problem and don't have much area to train. But I always tell the girls, and we share, that we can't complain about the environment. We can't change the environment around us, nor can we suddenly bring in a venue or anything.

“If we can't control those things, we just accept it, adapt to the situation, and do what we can. We mainly just use our free hours. If we have free hours today, we use them to do our best and do as much as we can.

“So we are used to it now. Of course, in the future, we hope that because we qualified for this Asia Cup, the government can give us more time to train on turf wickets or give us a bigger venue for fielding training and other things.”

That anticipation is best captured by a light-hearted wager regarding India vice-captain and star opener Smriti Mandhana. Kary harboured a wish to swap jerseys with Smriti and Jemimah Rodrigues during the tournament. But with Jemimah ruled out due to a high-grade hamstring injury, Kary hopes to get Smriti’s wicket on September 3 and then swap jerseys with her.

“I'm a big fan of Smriti because I'm a left-hander as well, and she's a legend among left-handers worldwide. Of course, I'm not really sure if she's going to swap jerseys with me, but if I have a chance, I would like to swap jerseys with her and ask her a lot of questions about how to become such a big legend of the game.

“We also have a joke - my teammate and I made a deal that if I can get Smriti out, I will get a bubble tea. But I don't think the bubble tea is the main thing - it's about enjoying the time bowling to her if I get the chance. That really motivates me right now and makes me want to become a better bowler.”

Kary also hopes Hong Kong China playing in a Women’s Asia Cup for the first time since 2012 inspires the next generation of cricketers back home, especially after suffering the heartbreak of not making it to the main event in 2024.

“I think for local kids, especially if they play cricket, they will be very excited that we made it to the Asia Cup. Before I left, some of my students told me they were going to watch it on TV and support us no matter what.

“For the kids in Hong Kong, it's important because we are not traditionally a cricket city, and not many people know about the sport. But seeing a team like us make it to the Asia Cup will motivate the younger generation and show them that anything is possible.

“It will let them chase their dreams more freely, without doubting themselves, and just feel free to pick up a ball and a bat to play cricket. Because one day, you never know - you might end up playing against India and Pakistan, just like we are going to do now.”

Watch DP World Women's Asia Cup 2026- Thailand vs Hong Kong on August 28, 2026, from 8 PM IST live on Sony Sports Ten 1 SD & HD, Sony Sports Ten 3 SD & HD (Hindi), Sony Sports Ten 4 SD (Telugu, Kannada) & Sony LIV.

Source: IANS

The post Feels like a dream to face off against India and Pakistan in Women’s Asia Cup, says Kary Chan appeared first on Social News XYZ.

New Delhi, Aug 27 (SocialNews.XYZ) For Vishmi Gunaratne, entering international cricket as a teenager after being a terrific batting prodigy in the domestic circuit brought a rapid trial by fire. Now an established figure in Sri Lanka’s top order via playing 37 ODIs and 59 T20Is, Vishmi believes that early exposure forced a crucial evolution in her mental approach to the game.

“I started playing international cricket at a young age, and that has taught me patience and adaptability. It has forced me to grow quickly, learn the game, and adjust to situations, and it has taught me a lot. Starting to play international cricket at a young age forces me to grow up quickly as a batter.

“It taught me patience and adaptability and how to read different situations fast. So, as a person, I meet many people, and I can learn the social things and all and compete at this international level against the best teams. I have to grow up quickly and read the situations, and I have to work hard, and I'm doing that,” Vishmi told IANS in an exclusive conversation facilitated by Sony Sports Network.

Sri Lanka head into the upcoming Women’s Asia Cup, starting in Dubai on Friday, as defending champions, having lifted the trophy in 2024 by defeating India in a historic final in front of their home fans in Dambulla. In the competition, Sri Lanka are in Group B alongside Bangladesh, hosts UAE and newbies Indonesia.

While that victory remains a watershed moment for the women's game in the island nation, Vishmi insisted the squad is firmly focused on resetting their expectations rather than dwelling on past glory.

“Winning in 2024 was a dream, but going into this tournament, we try to keep that aside. Our preparation has been very good, and we are going to stick to the things that we prepared well for the tournament. It was really good holding on to our trophy and around our people in our country, and that was a dream for all of us,” she added.

Another successful campaign in Dubai would further accelerate the grassroots growth of the sport back home. “Of course, winning in 2024 gave our girls a big boost to play cricket and start cricket in Sri Lanka for girls. Winning again in this country, and this title will give a good boost to our girls in Sri Lanka,” said Vishmi.

Vishmi didn’t have the best of the T20 World Cup this year, but hitting 123 during the second ODI against Pakistan in Hambantota in July, as Sri Lanka aced the third-highest chase in the Women’s ODI story, has slowly become a turning point in her self-belief at the crease.

“The century in that ODI against Pakistan gave me a lot of confidence and ability in my game. That gave me a belief that I can contribute to my team in a long innings and handle the pressure and situation well.”

Much of Vishmi’s early growth was nurtured while opening alongside Sri Lanka’s talismanic skipper Chamari Athapaththu. “Opening the batting with her was a kind of dream for a young player like me, and she taught me many things when opening with her. She always tells me to read the game and handle the situation well.”

Despite her established credentials as an opener, Vishmi, who captained Sri Lanka in the 2023 U19 Women’s T20 World Cup, revealed she is adapting to a new role – either coming as a three or four batter - to balance the side’s tactical needs.

“I used to play as an opener, and now I am given another role in this game by the team. So I am working hard on it, and our top order is in good form. I think everyone will do a great job in the tournament.”

Sri Lanka’s preparations for the continental event in Dubai involved rigorous training, including practising against local men’s bowlers under lights. “The conditions in Dubai would be a little bit similar to Sri Lanka, and we already worked on our three departments while preparing for it. We also worked on our batting under lights with our Sri Lankan boys, and I think we are well prepared for the tournament,” said Vishmi.

Ultimately, Vishmi points to a collective shift in depth as Sri Lanka’s greatest strength heading into their title defence. “Our team has improved a lot in the last three years, and many players in the team are coming and doing their things and helping the team during the games. This is why we are calling this sport based on teamwork, and everyone is doing a great job.”

Watch DP World Women's Asia Cup 2026- Thailand vs Hong Kong on August 28, 2026, from 8 PM IST live on Sony Sports Ten 1 SD & HD, Sony Sports Ten 3 SD & HD (Hindi), Sony Sports Ten 4 SD (Telugu, Kannada) & Sony LIV.

Source: IANS

The post Women’s Asia Cup: Defending champions Sri Lanka ready for Dubai challenge, says Gunaratne appeared first on Social News XYZ.

Colombo, Aug 27 (SocialNews.XYZ) India’s hopes of upping their position in the World Test Championship (WTC) standings took a hit on Thursday as a resilient day five rearguard act by Sri Lanka forced the second Test at the SSC Ground to end in a draw.

Having registered a comprehensive 165-run victory in the series opener at Galle, India looked firmly on course to sweep the two-match series 2-0. However, Sonal Dinusha’s heroic second-innings century of 133 not out ensured Sri Lanka salvaged a draw, leaving India to settle for a 1-0 series triumph.

The drawn result also meant India’s Points Percentage (PCT) dropped from 53.33 to 51.52, though they retain the fifth spot after playing in eleven matches. India are still behind leaders, 2023 WTC winners Australia (80.00 PCT), 2025 WTC winners South Africa (75.00 PCT), 2021 champions New Zealand (72.22 PCT), and Bangladesh (55.56 PCT).

Sri Lanka, meanwhile, are still placed sixth in the WTC standings with a 33.33 PCT. Resuming on day five with a slender 16-run lead, Sri Lanka's lower order displayed remarkable grit. Dinusha and Keshara Nuwantha safely negotiated 31.2 overs in the morning session to add 100 runs. Dinusha brought up a half-century while Nuwantha stroked a disciplined 46 to push the lead past 100 before the lunch break.

India struck early in the second session when left-arm spinner Manav Suthar induced an edge from Nuwantha to second slip, where Dhruv Jurel took a clean catch. Ravindra Jadeja soon removed Prabath Jayasuriya, with Jurel holding onto another sharp chance. Yet, Dinusha remained steadfast, taking the hosts to safety at tea alongside a resolute Lahiru Kumara.

Dinusha completed his second century of the Test and third of the series off the first ball of the evening session. Kumara stoically defended for 90 balls before falling to Jadeja, but Asitha Fernando held on, and that prompted India captain Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Jurel to bowl the final overs before hands were shaken and the game ended in a draw.

Having already crossed the halfway mark of their campaign following a 0-2 home reversal against South Africa and a drawn series in England last year, India now face a crucial stretch. Shubman Gill’s side will travel to New Zealand for a two-game Test series in November before hosting Australia in a five-match series to decide their fate for the WTC final.

Source: IANS

The post Despite a 1-0 series win over Sri Lanka, India stay in fifth spot in WTC standings appeared first on Social News XYZ.

Dehradun, Aug 27 (SocialNews.XYZ) As Uttarakhand prepares for its biggest franchise cricket showcase, a senior cricket administrator has hailed the inaugural Dehradun T20 League 2026 as a transformative milestone that will reshape the pathway for grassroots cricketers across the state.

Speaking about the vision behind the league and its impact on the region’s youth, former Vice-President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and former secretary of the Cricket Association of Uttarakhand Mahim Verma emphasised that the tournament was built specifically to bridge the gap between local talent and professional cricket.

“Our main goal with the Dehradun T20 League is to give our boys the kind of environment that speeds up their growth. Uttarakhand has no shortage of raw talent, but what our young players needed was a high-exposure platform where they could test themselves under pressure, learn professional match standards, and get noticed,” Verma said.

The tournament, scheduled to run from September 2 to 9 at the Abhimanyu Cricket Academy in Dehradun, will see six franchise teams—Rishikesh Dragons, Doiwala Kings, Mussoorie Thunder, Herbertpur Knightriders, Vikasnagar Dhamaka, and Selaqui Strikers—compete over 18 high intensity matches.

Echoing this vision, Navneet Mishra, CEO of the Dehradun T20 League, highlighted the operational excellence and long-term ecosystem being created for the players.

“We haven't spared any effort in making sure this league matches the highest professional standards in terms of infrastructure, broadcast, and player facilities. Our focus is to create an ecosystem where young athletes feel valued and inspired to perform at their absolute best. Seeing the enthusiasm from players and franchises alike gives us complete confidence that this league will become a cornerstone for cricket development in the region,” Mishra stated.

For many emerging players in the state, the league offers an unprecedented opportunity to rub shoulders with experienced coaches and match-winners, providing them with lessons that go far beyond a single week of cricket.

“When an 18- or 19-year-old kid shares a dugout with established domestic names, their entire perspective changes. They learn how to handle big-match pressure, how to prepare mentally, and how to carry themselves as professionals. That exposure is priceless, and it will give them the confidence to perform at higher levels of Indian cricket,” Verma added.

To ensure that the performances of these young talents reach a nationwide audience, all 18 matches—comprising 15 league fixtures, two semifinals, and the grand finale will be streamed live on FanCode.

“Having nationwide coverage means these young players aren't just playing for their franchises; they are putting their names on the radar. I am confident that this inaugural season will mark the beginning of a new era for cricket in Uttarakhand, and we will see many of these boys step up to make the state proud in the coming years,” Verma noted.

Source: IANS

The post Dehradun T20 League will serve as launchpad for Uttarakhand’s young talent: Ex-BCCI official Mahim Verma appeared first on Social News XYZ.

Raipur, Aug 27 (SocialNews.XYZ) India T20 vice-captain Tilak Varma attended Prime Minister Narendra Modi's virtual address to the nation's youth. Tilak was present in Chhattisgarh at a screening of Modi's virtual interaction, named 'Khelo India Dialogue', and the cricketer praised the Prime Minister's address to the youth of the country.

"It was a very good event. PM Modi delivered a strong message. Young people need to stay away from drugs. Events like this should be organised. Such initiatives can help keep the youth away from drugs," Varma told the media after attending Modi's virtual event.

"I have visited Chhattisgarh earlier to play cricket. Chhattisgarh has a lot of potential for sports as well. Now I have come to give a message to stay away from drugs," Varma said.

Meanwhile, Chhattisgarh Deputy Chief Minister and Sports Minister Arun Sao was also present at the event and highlighted Modi's efforts for the youth.

"Prime Minister Modi organised the Khelo India Dialogue and interacted with sportspersons and young people associated with sports from across the country. He discussed how India can achieve better results at the 2036 Olympics and how our country can become drug-free. The Prime Minister interacted with the youth across the country today, which infused them with new energy. A drug-free youth will play an important role in building a developed India," he told the media.

During his interaction, Modi stressed that sports help the youth to stay away from drugs. "Friends, another great advantage of sports is that real athletes develop a desire to stay away from drugs. Today, when young people face such a big challenge of drugs, sports play a very important role in this. I am happy that sports is a great profession in India today. People in our country are participating in triathlons. Also, 5K and 10K races are taking place," Modi said in his address.

The Prime Minister also called for India to broaden its participation across Olympic disciplines, saying the country must develop athletes in sports where it has traditionally had little or no representation, as part of preparations for the 2036 Olympics. Addressing youngsters, Modi said a nationwide talent hunt targeting children aged 5 to 15 would be crucial for identifying athletes early and training them in sports suited to their abilities.

"This time, from the Red Fort, I drew the country's attention to a major challenge in sports. This challenge is related to the Olympics. The bitter truth is that India's teams don't participate in half of the sports that are a part of the Olympics."

PM Modi said India's limited participation had remained a longstanding concern and directly affected the country's prospects in the overall medal standings. "That is, we do not compete for a very large part of the medal tally. And this has been the situation for a long time now. In the 2012 Olympics, India participated in only 13 sports. In more than 20 sports, India did not participate."

The Prime Minister cited disciplines such as surfing and sports climbing as areas where India could build a stronger presence, given the country's diverse geography. "There are so many sports whose names people in the country have probably heard of. Other countries win medals in those sports. And we do not participate in those sports. We have to acquire the skills in these sports to increase the medal tally in these sports as well. For example, surfing and sports climbing."

Source: IANS

The post ‘PM Modi sent strong message’: Tilak Varma after attending Khelo India Dialogue appeared first on Social News XYZ.

Colombo, Aug 27 (SocialNews.XYZ) India’s left-handed batter Devdutt Padikkal expressed mixed emotions after being named the Player of the Series in the 1-0 series win over Sri Lanka on Thursday, adding that while the individual recognition was gratifying, a victory in the second Test at the SSC Ground would have made it truly memorable.

Padikkal enjoyed a standout tour with the bat by amassing 328 runs in two Tests, including hitting two centuries. In the absence of injured B Sai Sudharsan, Padikkal demonstrated immense maturity on slow, subcontinent surfaces.

However, Sri Lanka’s stubborn rearguard effort on day five, highlighted by Sonal Dinusha’s unbeaten 133, ensured the match at the SSC Ground ended in a hard-fought draw for the hosts.

"It's great, but it would have been better if we got the win in this game. I think the two pitches were quite similar. It was pretty slow here, but at the end of the day the batters got better at playing on such surfaces and that showed over the last couple of days," Padikkal said after collecting his Player of the Series award.

Elaborating on the tactical approach required to succeed on sluggish, turning tracks, Padikkal said, "It takes a lot of clarity. You need to have clear plans. Everyone came with their own plans, and the way the batsmen applied themselves showed out there."

Reflecting on his journey back into the national Test setup after spending time on the sidelines, Padikkal highlighted the mental toughness and persistence required to capitalise on opportunities at the highest level.

"You want to play for the country, so you keep working hard and try to help your teammates out and take your opportunities when you get them. It's important that you forget that as fast as possible and move on to the next ball, and that's what I tried to do."

Asked about his preference for position in the batting order, the versatile top-order batter reiterated his team-first mindset, emphasising that contributing to victory takes precedence over personal batting slots.

"Honestly, I'm just happy to score runs. It doesn't matter what position. The team must win, and as long as I'm contributing to that, I am happy. We are a very young side. Important that we continue to learn. Everyone is really hungry and looking forward to doing that and getting better," he concluded.

Source: IANS

The post 2nd Test: Would have been better if we got the win in Colombo, says Devdutt Padikkal appeared first on Social News XYZ.

Colombo, Aug 27 (SocialNews.XYZ) Sri Lanka batter Sonal Dinusha expressed immense satisfaction after his marathon batting efforts across the series, including hitting an unbeaten 133, helped the hosts secure a hard-fought draw in the second and final Test against India at the SSC Ground on Thursday.

Dinusha, who was named the Player of the Match for his heroic knock in the second innings that saved the game for the hosts after Sri Lanka were forced to follow on, credited his preparation on turning tracks and lauded the lower order for standing firm alongside him to keep India at bay.

"First of all, I should mention who helped me get here. I want to mention our coaching staff and my school coach and provincial coach and family as well. It's really about the preparation at Galle, and here, I had an idea about the turning pitches, so I practised for that," Dinusha said after receiving his Player of the Match award to raucous applause from the Colombo crowd.

In all, Dinusha ended the series with 419 runs at 139.66 and became a gem of a find for Sri Lanka. “I would like to mention that the tailenders batted really well. It helped me get runs as well. I tried to do my best, reading the situation. I am really happy about that (getting three hundreds). When the team is down, I wanted to get runs for the team, so I am happy I was able to do that. Getting runs against India is a pleasure as a player," he added.

Sri Lanka skipper Dhananjaya de Silva praised the selection panel and team management for backing young talents like Dinusha. "It's all about finding the talent. I think the selectors and coach gave me that opportunity to get the youngsters in and let them really go there and do the job for the country. It's a good headache to have; three guys who were playing and have to come back will find it tough to get in," he added.

However, de Silva also reflected on his own dismissal in the first innings, admitting it allowed India to assert dominance early in the match. “Maybe in the second innings I should have batted longer. That's the point where they got back in the match."

Source: IANS

The post 2nd Test: 2nd Test: Getting runs against India is a pleasure, says Dinusha after sealing heroic draw appeared first on Social News XYZ.

Colombo, Aug 27 (SocialNews.XYZ) India captain Shubman Gill insisted his team gave everything it had on the field and expressed no regrets over his tactical decisions after Sri Lanka mounted a heroic rearguard effort to secure a draw in the second and final Test at the SSC Ground on Thursday.

India needed to take out four wickets quickly and chase a small total to get a 2-0 series win. But they were left frustrated by a marathon unbeaten 133 from Sonal Dinusha, as the hosts comfortably kept India at bay on a docile day-five pitch.

"Honestly, nothing (could have been done differently). You field for so many overs over three days; we did everything we could, but they played really well. Their batters showed a lot of skill and had a little bit of luck as well," Gill said at the conclusion of the game, as India got a 1-0 series win.

Addressing questions regarding his decision to enforce the follow-on, Gill noted that match decisions are made in the moment and cannot be judged through hindsight. "In hindsight you can think (about the follow-on), but you can only talk about these things in hindsight. You take the best decision you can in the moment, and something doesn't go your way. But it was a brilliant game, and I think Test cricket won today."

Despite being denied a 2-0 series sweep, Gill pointed to several positive takeaways for his side. "I think there are a lot of positives for us. Also, learning from the opposition. They were under a lot of pressure, and the way they came back was tremendous. A lot of positives for us. Devdutt was brilliant, Manav was really good, and so was KL. Fast bowlers also did everything they could. Very exciting times for us."

Left-arm spinner Suthar finished as the leading wicket-taker in the series with 16 scalps, and earned high praise from Gill. "Everything impressed me about him. How consistent he is, how he releases the ball, and how it goes off his wrist and fingers. Very pleasing bowler to watch. He's going to be a very crucial bowler for us."

Looking ahead to India's upcoming international assignments, Gill signed off by talking about the importance of maintaining high preparation standards as they target a spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) final.

"It's important for us to be consistent on and off the field with our preparation and performance and how we go about things. Yes, we are going to New Zealand, so that'll be a good series for us and then a good home season. We'll keep believing, and hopefully we'll make it to the WTC final."

Source: IANS

The post 2nd Test: Honestly nothing could be done differently, says Shubman Gill after draw in Colombo appeared first on Social News XYZ.

Colombo, Aug 27 (SocialNews.XYZ) Sonal Dinusha capped a defining series with a second-innings masterclass in resolve and patience by hitting a marathon unbeaten 133 off 264 balls to help Sri Lanka seal a hard-fought draw against India in the second Test at the SSC Ground on Thursday. The result also meant that India won the two-game series 1-0.

Forced to follow-on after making 290 in the first innings and starting Day Five with a slender 16-run lead, Dinusha’s rearguard and resilient efforts meant Sri Lanka reached 429/9 in 154 overs before declaring late in the final session. Keshara Nuwantha also showed his abilities with the bat, as did the tail-enders. The hosts being steely resilient with the bat meant only three wickets fell on the final day of the game and series.

In the morning, resuming with a precarious 16-run lead on a pitch offering very little help to the bowlers, Sri Lanka added 100 unbroken runs in 31.2 overs of the first session, as Dinusha and Nuwantha walked back to a standing ovation from the hosts' dressing room.

What looked like a simple task for India to take four remaining wickets developed into a full-blown headache. Opting for defensive, spread-out fields without close-in catchers, India allowed Dinusha and Nuwantha to rotate the strike and settle into an easy rhythm.

Consequently, not a single Indian bowler managed to string together a consistently threatening over, with the seamers mostly bowling away from the stumps.

Dinusha anchored the fightback with a flawless knock laced with only two boundaries and continued his exceptional run to register his fourth consecutive 50-plus score of the series. He was wonderful in playing the spinners with deft sweeps and driving cleanly through the off-side. It also earned left-handed batter Dinusha a place in an elite group of batters to achieve fifty or more in each of their first four Test innings against India.

At the other end, Nuwantha looked increasingly assured against both pace and spin, with drive being his go-to shot. He negotiated the second new ball spells from Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna with soft hands and admirable patience.

India’s frustration boiled over in the 90th over when Siraj burned a review on a desperate caught-behind appeal against Nuwantha, only for the DRS to reveal the bat had merely hit the turf. In an eventful final over, Nuwantha survived a final scare on the stroke of lunch when on-field umpire Ahsan Raza adjudged him LBW off Ravindra Jadeja.

He immediately reviewed the decision, and DRS confirmed the delivery was sliding comfortably down leg, as Sri Lanka walked off as the happier side at lunch. Though Sri Lanka added only 54 runs in the second session, they still managed to keep India at bay, as Dinusha got his second standing ovation of the day from the Sri Lankan dressing room.

India began on a high as Suthar took out a patient Nuwantha by having him caught at second slip and breaking the 112-run partnership. Dinusha kept going with immense patience - combining defensive discipline with calculated strokeplay, especially by showcasing various types of sweep shots in his repertoire.

He found capable support in Kumara, who mounted a stoic blockathon to frustrate the weary Indian attack. Though Suthar broke through early in the stretch, India didn’t find many clear-cut opportunities to get more scalps and end Sri Lanka’s defiant innings.

Veteran left-arm spinner Ravindra Jadeja provided the second breakthrough of the session when he removed Prabath Jayasuriya for two after having him caught at slip. But India’s hopes of quickly mopping up the tail were stymied by Kumara, who absorbed 56 deliveries for his unbeaten knock.

He survived a close run-out chance when a wide throw from Prasidh Krishna allowed him to dive back safely, while also edging past a vacant second slip off Saransh Jain. At the other end, Dinusha masterfully managed the strike and capitalised on any rare boundary offerings.

The left-hander repeatedly deployed the reverse sweep against Jain and Jadeja to break the pressure, while late-cutting and paddling with precision to be on the cusp of getting another three-figure score in the series.

Though India rotated their bowling options well and had close-in fielders, they were rendered ineffective by a combination of solid defensive cricket led by Dinusha and a pitch offering very little help till tea break arrived.

The final session began with Dinusha reaching his second century of the match off the very first ball. Clipping a full delivery from Mohammed Siraj into the mid-wicket pocket for a couple, Dinusha took off his helmet and raised his bat to soak in the applause for his third hundred of the series.

The landmark made him only the third Sri Lankan to score three centuries in a two-match Test series after Aravinda de Silva and Kumar Sangakkara, and the eighth man from his country to hit twin tons in a Test. India’s tiring attack struggled to break down Sri Lanka’s lower-order defiance throughout the final session.

Siraj was limited in his bowling overs due to a physical niggle, while Jadeja also laboured through discomfort. With all that in mind, Sri Lanka’s tail dug in to completely extinguish India’s victory hopes. Lahiru Kumara grounded it out for a stoic 12 off 90 balls before falling to Jadeja, after being caught brilliantly by Jaiswal at short leg.

Dinusha accelerated by launching both Jadeja and Gill over deep mid-wicket for a brace of sixes before striking successive boundaries off Jaiswal’s leg-spin, as he put on 27 runs for a last-wicket stand with Asitha Fernando, who was unbeaten on 0, but more importantly played 24 balls.

By the time hands were shaken and a draw was called, Dinusha took his series tally to 419 runs at an average of 139.66. The Sri Lankan dressing room gave the youngster a standing ovation for the third time in the day, with Indian players offering warm congratulations for a heroic marathon effort that saved the Test for the hosts after they were in danger of losing it quickly.

Brief scores:

India 503/9 dec in 138 overs drew with Sri Lanka 290 and (f/o) 429/9 in 154 overs (Sonal Dinusha 133 not out, Pasindu Sooriyabandara 92; Manav Suthar 3-105, Ravindra Jadeja 3-94)

Source: IANS

The post 2nd Test: Dinusha’s unbeaten 133 helps Sri Lanka seal hard-fought draw against India (ld) appeared first on Social News XYZ.

Colombo, Aug 27 (SocialNews.XYZ) Sonal Dinusha capped a defining series with a second-innings masterclass in resolve and patience by hitting a marathon unbeaten 133 off 264 balls to help Sri Lanka seal a hard-fought draw against India in the second Test at the SSC Ground on Thursday. The result also meant that India won the two-game series 1-0.

Forced to follow on after making 290 in the first innings and starting day five with a slender 16-run lead, Dinusha’s rearguard and resilient efforts meant Sri Lanka reached 429/9 in 154 overs before declaring late in the final session.

In a stark reflection of India’s bowling exhaustion on an unresponsive pitch, captain Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and wicketkeeper Dhruv Jurel were called upon to bowl the closing overs of the match.

But the day belonged entirely to the young left-hander Dinusha, who reached his second century of the match off the very first ball after the tea break was over. Clipping a full delivery from Mohammed Siraj into the mid-wicket pocket for a couple, Dinusha took off his helmet and raised his bat to soak in the applause for his third hundred of the series.

The landmark made him only the third Sri Lankan to score three centuries in a two-match Test series after Aravinda de Silva and Kumar Sangakkara, and the eighth man from his country to hit twin tons in a Test. India’s tiring attack struggled to break down Sri Lanka’s lower-order defiance throughout the final session. Siraj was limited in his bowling overs due to a physical niggle, while Ravindra Jadeja also laboured through discomfort.

With all that in mind, Sri Lanka’s tail dug in to completely extinguish India’s victory hopes. Lahiru Kumara grounded it out for a stoic 12 off 90 balls before falling to Jadeja, after being caught brilliantly by Jaiswal at short leg.

Dinusha accelerated by launching both Jadeja and Gill over deep mid-wicket for a brace of sixes before striking successive boundaries off Jaiswal’s leg-spin, as he put on 27 runs for a last-wicket stand with Asitha Fernando, who was unbeaten on 0, but more importantly played 24 balls.

By the time hands were shaken and a draw was called, Dinusha took his series tally to 419 runs at an average of 139.66. The Sri Lankan dressing room gave the youngster a standing ovation for the third time that day, with Indian players offering warm congratulations for a heroic marathon effort that saved the Test for the hosts after they were in danger of losing it quickly.

Brief scores:

India 503/9 dec in 138 overs draw with Sri Lanka 290 and (f/o) 429/9 in 154 overs (Sonal Dinusha 133 not out, Pasindu Sooriyabandara 92; Manav Suthar 3-105, Ravindra Jadeja 3-94)

Source: IANS

The post 2nd Test: Dinusha’s marathon unbeaten 133 helps SL seal hard-fought draw against India appeared first on Social News XYZ.

New Delhi, Aug 27 (SocialNews.XYZ) Wicketkeeper-batter Yastika Bhatia and batting all-rounder Anushka Sharma have been named captains of the India ‘A’ squads for the upcoming multi-format home series against Australia ‘A’, the BCCI said on Thursday.

Anushka will lead India ‘A’ in the T20 games, with seam-bowling all-rounder Sayali Satghare acting as her deputy. Yastika will come to take charge of both the 50-over squad and the red-ball sides, with Anushka serving as vice-captain in those two formats.

The women’s selection committee have made notable structural adjustments across formats when compared to the India ‘A’ squads that toured England in July and won the 50-over series.

In the T20 setup, top-order batter Tejal Hasabnis, fast bowler Sayali Satghare, wicketkeeper Shipra Giri, and Sujata Dey have earned call-ups. They replace G Kamalini, Purvaja Verlekar, Saima Thakor, and Deeya Yadav from the unit that played in England.

For the 50-over matches, Yastika, the first batter to hit a century in a women’s Test match at Lord’s, steps in to captain the side. The one-day roster features new additions in left-arm wrist-spinner Amandeep Kaur and pacer Akshita Bhagat, alongside Tejal Hasabnis and Anushka Sharma, who missed out on the previous 50-over leg in England.

They come into the 50-over team in place of Harleen Deol, Pratika Rawal, G Kamalini, Tanuja Kanwer, and Saima Thakor. The squad for the multi-day fixture in Dharamshala sees the inclusion of Test batter Shubha Satheesh, all-rounder Sushree Dibyadarshini, left-arm spinner Shuchi Upadhyay, and wicketkeeper Mamata Madiwala.

The series will commence with three T20 matches in New Chandigarh on September 12, 15, and 17, respectively. The action then shifts to the PCA Stadium in Mohali for three 50-over fixtures scheduled for September 20, 23, and 25, respectively. The tour will conclude with the four-day match in Dharamshala, to be played from September 29 to October 2.

India A T20 games squad: Anushka Sharma (captain), Sayali Satghare (vc), Vrinda Dinesh, Sujata Dey, Tejal Hasabnis, Nikki Prasad, Shipra Giri (wk), Shweta Sehrawat, Uma Chetry (wk), Tanuja Kanwer, Minnu Mani, Vaishnavi Sharma, Jintimani Kalita, Shabnam Shakeel, and Simran Dil Bahadur

India A One-Day games squad: Yastika Bhatia (captain & wk). Anushka Sharma (vc), Vrinda Dinesh, Priya Punia, Tanisha Singh, Tejal Hasabnis, Nikki Prasad, Uma Chetry (wk), Minnu Mani, Amandeep Kaur, Vaishnavi Sharma, Sayali Satghare, Jintimani Kalita, Shabnam Shakeel, and Akshita Bhagat

India A Multi-Day game squad: Yastika Bhatia (captain & wk), Anushka Sharma (vc), Shubha Satheesh, Priya Punia, Tanisha Singh, Tejal Hasabnis, Nikki Prasad, Mamata Madiwala (wk), Sushree Dibyadarshini, Shuchi Upadhyay, Vaishnavi Sharma, Sayali Satghare, Jintimani Kalita, Shabnam Shakeel, and Akshita Bhagat

Source: IANS

The post Yastika to lead India ‘A’ in one-day and multi-day games against Australia ‘A’, Anushka named T20 skipper appeared first on Social News XYZ.

New Delhi, Aug 27 (SocialNews.XYZ) Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya on Thursday said India had, for the first time, begun viewing sports as a national priority rather than merely an activity, while highlighting the government's wider efforts to provide young people with opportunities, mentorship and a greater role in the country's development and policymaking.

Addressing Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the Khelo India Dialogue, Mandaviya said the government's approach towards youth development had sought to combine opportunities in sports, skills and nation-building through platforms designed to channel the energy and ideas of young Indians.

“Prime Minister, you have considered youth to be the future of India. You have also said that they are the future of India. For the first time, the country has seen sports as a national priority, not just an activity,” Mandaviya said.

Mandaviya pointed to the launch of the My Bharat platform in 2023 as part of efforts to provide young people with direction, mentorship and opportunities to contribute to national development.

“To strengthen this vision on the ground, you started a powerful platform like My Bharat in 2023. Our youth had the desire for energy, ideas, passion and service. But they also needed the right direction, mentorship, and opportunity. Today, My India is fulfilling these needs as a one-stop solution. Across the country, more than 2.66 crore youth have joined us. They are contributing to the nation's development alongside their careers,” he added.

The Sports Minister also highlighted the Developed India Young Leader Dialogue, saying the initiative had created a direct channel for young people to contribute ideas that could feed into the policymaking process.

“By advancing this vision, you have connected youth and ideas directly to policy-making through the Developed India Young Leader Dialogue. Prime Minister, on the occasion of Swami Vivekananda's birthday on 12th January, you sang a song with the youth. You listened to their ideas and interacted with them.”

Mandaviya said the interaction had helped reinforce among young people the belief that their ideas could have a tangible role in shaping the country's future.

“As a result, this year the Minister of the Development of the Nation drew on the ideas from the Developed India Young Leader Dialogue in his speech to present this year's budget as a youth-driven budget. Today, the country's youth feel that their ideas are not ignored but implemented.”

He further said the government had opened up new avenues for young people seeking opportunities and skill development. “Prime Minister, you have opened new doors for opportunities for the youth. If any youth wants to develop skills, you have launched the Prime Minister's Skills Development Programme.”

Source: IANS

The post For the first time, the country has seen sports as a national priority: Sports min Mandaviya to PM Modi appeared first on Social News XYZ.

Colombo, Aug 27 (SocialNews.XYZ) Sonal Dinusha continued his exceptional display of composure and technical resilience by guiding Sri Lanka into a position of relative security with a gritty, unbeaten 98 off 195 balls, as the hosts reached 383/8 in 133 overs at tea on day five’s play at the SSC Ground on Thursday, holding an overall lead of 170 runs.

India took only two wickets across two sessions on the final day as Sri Lanka added 54 crucial runs before tea. Battling to keep India at bay, Dinusha walked off to his second standing ovation of the day from the Sri Lankan dressing room, setting up a decisive final session of the match and series.

Resuming after India struck an early blow, Manav Suthar dismissed the patient Keshara Nuwantha. Dinusha anchored the innings with immense patience, combining defensive discipline with calculated strokeplay, especially by showcasing various sweep shots in his repertoire.

He received solid support from tailender Lahiru Kumara, who is unbeaten on two off 56 balls and crafted a resilient blockathon that frustrated the tiring Indian bowlers during the afternoon session. Although Suthar managed to break through early in that period, India struggled to find clear chances for more wickets and to end Sri Lanka’s stubborn innings.

Veteran left-arm spinner Ravindra Jadeja provided the second breakthrough of the session, removing Prabath Jayasuriya for two after he was caught at slip. But India’s hopes of quickly mopping up the tail were stymied by Kumara, who absorbed 56 deliveries for his unbeaten knock.

He survived a close run-out chance when a wide throw from Prasidh Krishna allowed him to dive back safely, while also edging past a vacant second slip off Saransh Jain. At the other end, Dinusha masterfully managed the strike and capitalised on any rare boundary opportunities.

The left-hander repeatedly used the reverse sweep against Jain and Jadeja to relieve pressure, while also employing late cuts and paddling shots with precision, nearing another century in the series. Although India rotated their bowlers effectively and positioned close-in fielders, their efforts were thwarted by Dinusha's resilient defensive display and a pitch that offered minimal assistance.

Brief Scores: India 503/9d in 138 overs trail Sri Lanka 290 and 383/8 f/o in 133 overs (Sonal Dinusha 98 not out, Pasindu Sooriyabandara 92; Manav Suthar 3-105, Ravindra Jadeja 2-90) by 170 runs

Source: IANS

The post 2nd Test: Dinusha nears another ton as Sri Lanka extend lead to 170 appeared first on Social News XYZ.

Dehradun, Aug 27 (SocialNews.XYZ) Former BCCI vice-president and former Cricket Association of Uttarakhand secretary Mahim Verma believes the inaugural Dehradun T20 League 2026 will provide a crucial platform for young cricketers in the state, offering them greater exposure and an opportunity to develop in a professional competitive environment.

The six-team franchise tournament will be held from September 2 to 9 at the Abhimanyu Cricket Academy in Dehradun, featuring Rishikesh Dragons, Doiwala Kings, Mussoorie Thunder, Herbertpur Knightriders, Vikasnagar Dhamaka and Selaqui Strikers. A total of 18 matches will be played during the competition.

Verma said one of the league's primary objectives was to bridge the gap between grassroots cricket and the professional game by giving promising players an environment in which they could test themselves under pressure.

“Our main goal with the Dehradun T20 League is to give our boys the kind of environment that speeds up their growth. Uttarakhand has no shortage of raw talent, but what our young players needed was a high-exposure platform where they could test themselves under pressure, learn professional match standards, and get noticed,” Verma said.

Navneet Mishra, CEO of the Dehradun T20 League, said organisers had focused on creating a professional ecosystem for players through investment in infrastructure, broadcast facilities and player welfare.

“We haven't spared any effort in making sure this league matches the highest professional standards in terms of infrastructure, broadcast, and player facilities. Our focus is to create an ecosystem where young athletes feel valued and inspired to perform at their absolute best. Seeing the enthusiasm from players and franchises alike gives us complete confidence that this league will become a cornerstone for cricket development in the region,” Mishra stated.

According to Verma, one of the key benefits for emerging players will be the opportunity to share dressing rooms and playing environments with experienced domestic cricketers, helping them understand the demands of competing at higher levels.

“When an 18 or 19-year-old kid shares a dugout with established domestic names, their entire perspective changes. They learn how to handle big-match pressure, how to prepare mentally, and how to carry themselves as professionals. That exposure is priceless, and it will give them the confidence to perform at higher levels of Indian cricket,” Verma added.

All 18 matches, including 15 league fixtures, two semi-finals and the final, will provide the tournament and its players a wider audience.

“Having nationwide coverage means these young players aren't just playing for their franchises; they are putting their names on the radar. I am confident that this inaugural season will mark the beginning of a new era for cricket in Uttarakhand, and we will see many of these boys step up to make the state proud in the coming years,” Verma noted.

With the inaugural edition set to get underway next month, the organisers are hoping the Dehradun T20 League will establish a stronger pathway for emerging talent and become a significant platform for the continued development of cricket in Uttarakhand.

Source: IANS

The post Dehradun T20 League’s goal is to provide an environment that speeds up their growth: Mahim Verma appeared first on Social News XYZ.

New Delhi, Aug 27 (SocialNews.XYZ) New Zealand all-rounder Rachin Ravindra has revealed his deep admiration for Premier League champions Manchester City, citing their controlling style of play as the main reason for his allegiance to the English football giants.

Manchester City will face Crystal Palace in the Premier League Season 2026/27 on August 29. "I'm a Manchester City guy. I've followed them for a while. I like the way they play and the style of football they bring. Watching them is always exciting, and I enjoy seeing how they control games," Ravindra said to JioStar on Wednesday.

Recalling his experiences of watching top-tier matches live at the stadium, Ravindra, the attacking left-handed batter who also bowls left-arm orthodox spin, singled out a visit to the Etihad Stadium as the pivotal moment that cemented his support for the club.

"I've had two incredible football experiences. One of them made me a Manchester City fan. They hosted me at the Etihad (Stadium) for the first Premier League game of last season against Tottenham. We didn't win, but it was still a great day.

“More recently, I went to the Round of 16 match between Spain and Portugal in Dallas. That was one of the best days of my life. It might have been Ronaldo's last international game, which was a bit sad, but it was special to be there," he added.

Asked to identify a fellow international cricketer with exceptional football skills, Wellington-based Ravindra picked former England fast bowler Chris Woakes to captain a key defensive position.

"I'd say Chris Woakes. He would make a very solid centre-back. He's good on the ball, comfortable under pressure, and reads the game well. I think he has the skills to play that role."

Source: IANS

The post I’m a Manchester City guy, like the way they play, says Rachin Ravindra appeared first on Social News XYZ.

Dubai, Aug 27 (SocialNews.XYZ) United Arab Emirates (UAE) batter Asif Khan has been handed a 15-month ban from all cricket activities after testing positive for a prohibited substance, the International Cricket Council (ICC) announced on Thursday.

Asif, 36, admitted to breaching Article 2.1 of the ICC Anti-Doping Code after an out-of-competition test on September 8, 2025, detected a metabolite of mesterolone. Article 2.1 specifies that an anti-doping violation occurs when a prohibited substance, its metabolites, or markers are found in a cricketer's urine or blood sample.

"Asif admitted the violation of Article 2.1 of the ICC Anti-Doping Code and accepted a 15-month period of ineligibility pursuant to a Case Resolution Agreement entered into with the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and the International Cricket Council (ICC).

"The player’s individual results from 8 September 2025 until his provisional suspension on 29 December 2025 have been disqualified, along with all resulting consequences, including the loss of any medals, points, prize money or prizes. There is no right of appeal under the Case Resolution Agreement," the ICC said in its statement.

Generally found in urine samples, Mesterolone is a synthetic anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS) that is banned by WADA both in-competition and out-of-competition.

Asif is permitted to return to training at the UAE’s official facilities from October 8, but will remain ineligible for competitive matches until December 8. The right-handed batter played domestic cricket in Pakistan from 2007 to 2014 before moving to the UAE in 2017 to pursue international cricket.

Asif has represented the UAE in 38 ODIs and 56 T20Is since making his international debut in 2022, amassing 1270 and 1302 runs respectively. His last international appearances came in 2025, before the 15-month ban came into effect.

Source: IANS

The post UAE batter Asif handed 15-month ban after testing positive for banned substance appeared first on Social News XYZ.

Colombo, Aug 27 (SocialNews.XYZ) Sonal Dinusha (55 not out) and Keshara Nuwantha (46 not out) engineered a spectacular seventh-wicket rearguard partnership, batting through a wicketless morning session to steer Sri Lanka to 329/6 off 104 overs and swell the lead to 116 runs at lunch on day five of the second Test against India at the SSC Ground on Thursday.

Resuming with a precarious 16-run lead on a pitch offering little help to the bowlers, Sri Lanka added 100 unbroken runs in 31.2 overs and left India clueless about dislodging the unbeaten batters Dinusha and Nuwantha, who walked back to a standing ovation from the hosts' dressing room.

With the partnership still unbroken at 111 off 238 balls, Sri Lanka are now daring to dream of drawing the game. A lead approaching 200 runs will set the stage for a riveting conclusion to the Test match, provided the forecasted rain stays away.

What looked like a simple task for India to take the four remaining wickets has become a full-blown headache. Opting for defensive, spread-out fields without close-in catchers, India allowed Dinusha and Nuwantha to rotate the strike and settle into an easy rhythm. Consequently, no Indian bowler managed to string together a consistently threatening over, with the seamers mostly bowling away from the stumps.

Dinusha anchored the fightback with a flawless knock, laced with only two boundaries, and continued his exceptional run to register his fourth consecutive 50-plus score of the series. He was wonderful against the spinners, using deft sweeps and driving cleanly through the off-side. It also earned left-handed batter Dinusha a place in an elite group of batters to score fifty or more in each of their first four Test innings against India.

At the other end, Nuwantha, primarily a bowling all-rounder, looked increasingly assured against both pace and spin, with the drive his go-to shot. He negotiated the second-new-ball spells from Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna with soft hands and admirable patience.

India’s frustration boiled over in the 90th over when Siraj used a review on a desperate caught-behind appeal against Nuwantha, only for the DRS to reveal the ball had merely hit the turf. In an eventful final over, Nuwantha survived a final scare on the stroke of lunch when on-field umpire Ahsan Raza adjudged him lbw off Ravindra Jadeja.

He immediately reviewed the decision, and DRS confirmed the delivery was sliding comfortably down the leg. With Sri Lanka now in a strong position, it remains to be seen whether India can change tactics to take those four wickets quickly.

Brief Scores: India 503/9d in 138 overs trail Sri Lanka 290 and 329/6 f/o in 104 overs (Pasindu Sooriyabandara 92, Sonal Dinusha 55 not out; Manav Suthar 2-98, Mohammed Siraj 1-19) by 116 runs

Source: IANS

The post 2nd Test: Dinusha, Nuwantha fight back for Sri Lanka in wicketless morning session appeared first on Social News XYZ.

New Delhi, Aug 27 (SocialNews.XYZ) Aaryavir Sehwag, son of former India opener Virender Sehwag, and Anvay Dravid, son of former captain and head coach Rahul Dravid, have been named in the India Under-19 squad for the upcoming three-match one-day series against Australia U-19.

The Junior Men’s Selection Committee, whose term is ending soon, announced the squads for the home assignment, comprising three 50-over matches in Rajkot on September 18, 21 and 23. This is followed by two red-ball multi-day fixtures to be played from September 27-30 in Rajkot and from October 5-8 at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium ‘B’ Ground.

The 50-over side will be led by Uttarakhand batter Lakshya Raichandani, with Madhya Pradesh batter Yashbardhan Chauhan as his deputy. Chauhan will take over as captain for the red-ball leg, with Raichandani serving as his vice-captain.

While leg-spin all-rounder Aaryavir and wicketkeeper-batter Anvay secured places in the 15-member one-day unit, neither is in the squad selected for the two long-format games. Aaryavir is currently playing for West Delhi Lions in the 2026 Delhi Premier League (DPL) and has played only two games so far.

Anvay, meanwhile, scored 101 runs in two 50-over games for India U19 on their July tour of Sri Lanka. On that tour, India U19 lost the 50-over series 2-1 but won the red-ball series 1-0. Apart from Aaryavir, Manal Chauhan and Chigurupati Venkata have been included in the 50-over games against Australia, with Sagar Virk, Anmoljeet Singh, and Ishan Sood omitted.

In the multi-day games squad, wicketkeeper-batter Abhipray Biswas (WK), Ishan Om, Ayaan Akram, Mohit Ulva, and Aryan Yadav are included, replacing wicketkeeper-batter Aryan Sandesh Sakpal, Hemchudeshan J, BK Kishore, Kavya Paresh Patel, and Chigurupati Venkata.

India U19 squad for one-day matches: Lakshya Raichandani (captain), Yashbardhan Chauhan (vc), Rajat Baghel (wk), Aaryavir Sehwag, V.K. Vineet, Kushagra Ojha, Arjun Rajput, Manal Chauhan, Anvay Dravid (wk), V. Yashveer, Rohit Yadav, Shavin Vinodh, Mohit Ulva, Chigurupati Venkata, and Kavya Patel.

India U19 squad for multi-day fixtures: Yashbardhan Chauhan (captain), Lakshya Raichandani (vc), Sagar Virk, Kushagra Ojha, Manal Chauhan, Kush Patel, Manav Krishna (wk), Abhipray Biswas (wk), Rohit Yadav, Ishan Om, Ayaan Akram, Pranav Ragavendra, Priyanshu Singh, Mohit Ulva, and Aryan Yadav.

Source: IANS

The post Aaryavir Sehwag, Anvay Dravid picked in India U-19 squad for series against Australia appeared first on Social News XYZ.

New Delhi, Aug 27 (SocialNews.XYZ) Harmanpreet Kaur-led Team India have landed in Dubai to begin preparations for the 2026 Women's Asia Cup, with the eight-team T20I tournament set to get underway in the UAE on Friday.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) marked the team's arrival by sharing a video of the players' journey to Dubai on social media.

“Hello Dubai! #TeamIndia have arrived for the ACC Women's Asia Cup 2026,” the BCCI wrote.

India head into the tournament as its most successful side and will be looking to regain the title after Sri Lanka ended their dominance by winning the previous edition on home soil in 2024. The competition will feature eight teams split across two groups. India have been drawn in Group A alongside Pakistan, Thailand and Hong Kong, while defending champions Sri Lanka are joined by Bangladesh, Indonesia and hosts United Arab Emirates in Group B.

The Women in Blue will open their campaign against Thailand on August 30. Bangladesh and Indonesia will meet a day later, before Pakistan take on Thailand on September 1. One of the most anticipated fixtures of the group stage will see India renew their rivalry with Pakistan on September 5, marking the teams' first meeting since the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026.

The top two teams from each group will progress to the semifinals, scheduled for September 10 and 11, with the final set to be played on September 13. Dubai will host the Women's T20 Asia Cup for the first time, with all 15 matches of the tournament taking place in the city. The schedule includes 12 group-stage matches, followed by two semifinals and the final.

India have enjoyed considerable success in the T20 version of the competition, winning three of the five editions held so far. They finished runners-up on the other two occasions, losing to Bangladesh in 2018 and Sri Lanka in 2024. With a squad featuring experienced campaigners such as Harmanpreet, Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma and Deepti Sharma alongside emerging talent, India will begin their bid to reclaim the continental crown in Dubai.

India squad: Harmanpreet Kaur (c), Smriti Mandhana (vc), Shafali Verma, Bharti Fulmali, Deepti Sharma, Richa Ghosh (wk), G Kamalini (wk), Arundhati Reddy, Prema Rawat, Radha Yadav, Sree Charani, Renuka Thakur, Nandni Sharma, Kranti Gaud, Pratika Rawal.

Source: IANS

The post Harmanpreet-led India reach Dubai for Women’s Asia Cup appeared first on Social News XYZ.

Colombo, Aug 27 (SocialNews.XYZ) Sri Lanka middle-order batter Kamindu Mendis said he remains confident that his side can pull off a dramatic turnaround in the ongoing second Test against India, provided they set a decent fourth-innings target on a turning five-time pitch.

At the end of day four’s play at the SSC Ground, Sri Lanka had a 16-run lead after reaching 229/6 following the enforced follow-on. Mendis, who made 55, and Pasindu Sooriyabandara, who hit 92, have given Sri Lanka a glimmer of hope by stitching an 115-run stand for the third wicket.

"Yes, actually our plan was to play along and make a partnership after the follow-on. So we thought if we can get more than 150 lead, we can still be in the game. So we are still thinking about scoring some runs in the first session," Mendis said in a chat with broadcasters ahead of day’s play.

Detailing the strategy discussed in the dressing room before stepping out on the field, Mendis stated that Sri Lanka's need is to grind out overs in the morning session to capitalise on deteriorating pitch conditions.

"Play as much as possible, play some more overs and get some lead and then put some pressure on the fifth day in the fourth innings. So it will be tough conditions today as the fifth day of the Test match. So I think we can put some runs on the board. It will be a good sign for us," he noted.

While acknowledging that salvaging a draw would be a positive outcome for the young Sri Lankan outfit, Mendis insisted that an outright fightback remains well within reach, thanks to the turn on offer to their spinners.

"Of course, if we can draw this game, it will be a good thing, and also we still believe if we can get some runs on the board and put some pressure on them, you never know. It's spinning in the wicket right now, and I think we have some good bowlers as well. I still believe if we can get some lead, decent lead, we are still in the game," he added.

Source: IANS

The post 2nd Test: We are in the game if we set a decent target, says Kamindu Mendis appeared first on Social News XYZ.

Colombo, Aug 27 (SocialNews.XYZ) India’s left-arm spinner Manav Suthar said adaptability has become key to thriving on a less supportive pitch in the ongoing second Test at the Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC), after conditions proved drastically different from the spin-friendly track in Galle.

“100 percent, it was quite different. In the last Test match, the wicket was very supportive, you could say it was spin-friendly. This wicket is kind of less supportive, it is playing better and the experience has been good. There were different lines, different pace, and you had to adjust according to the wicket. Here it is different, there are different plans, so 100 percent it is different," Suthar said in a chat with broadcasters ahead of day five’s play.

Suthar described how, during the first innings, he created dot-ball pressure through an aggressive field, which ultimately led Keshara Nuwantha to make a mistake.

"At that time, the main focus was to create as much pressure as possible. There was pressure from the field as well because we knew that maybe this could be the last batting pair. So the plan was to create as much pressure as we could. The fielders were up, so the attempt was to maintain that pressure and then he played a loose shot, and we got the wicket," he said.

Suthar also revealed that a key conversation with his captain, Shubman Gill, proved decisive in accounting for Pasindu Sooriyabandara. "That was completely different. On the last ball, he had an umpire's call, there was bat involved and he was given out.

“Before that, we had a conversation, I spoke with the captain, and he told me that maybe he could step out. So I was ready for that. All kudos to the captain as well because he told me that maybe he could step out. As soon as I bowled that ball, he stepped out and I got the wicket."

Asked if reading the batter's charge was down to pure instinct, Suthar added, "Instinct mostly because his game plan was like that. He was playing in a slightly dominating manner, so I thought that maybe he could step out on this ball. That was the plan (of bowling slightly wide)."

Addressing India's approach to Sonal Dinusha, who has been a thorn in the flesh, Suthar reiterated that restricting the run flow remains the team's primary weapon on responsive tracks.

"The plan is to take as much help as possible from the wicket, and put a little bit of a check on his scoring shots. That's where chances are created. When the runs don't come, mostly the plan will be to create as much pressure as possible with dot balls and give away fewer runs in the field. So that is the plan," he said.

On whether the defensive approach adopted by Dinusha and Keshara shifted India's plans, Suthar stated, "Whatever their game plan is, our focus is simply to try and take wickets as quickly as possible. According to that, the plan is to be a little attacking, or whatever the situation is in the match, we will follow that accordingly."

Refusing to evaluate his own progress individually, Suthar signed off by saying, "No, I wouldn't give myself any marks, but 100 percent I'm enjoying it because as a team we are also growing. We have been doing well over the last two Test matches, and here also it is going well. So I'm very happy about that, and I'm very happy with the way the team is playing."

Source: IANS

The post 2nd Test: Adaptability key to thrive on less supportive SSC pitch, says Manav Suthar appeared first on Social News XYZ.

Christchurch, Aug 27 (SocialNews.XYZ) New Zealand Cricket's International summer of cricket has made a record-breaking start, with 26,000 tickets sold within the first 48 hours of the Cricket Nation members' pre-sale.

The unprecedented demand has been driven by India's historic 12-match, multi-format tour of New Zealand, which begins in October, and the white-ball fixtures at Auckland's Eden Park have emerged as the biggest draw in the early sales.

Christchurch's Hagley Oval has also witnessed strong demand, with the 9,000-capacity venue expected to sell out for the opening two T20Is on October 22 and 24, as well as the second and final Test of the tour, scheduled from November 27 to December 1.

Ticket sales have also begun strongly in Wellington, where HNRY Stadium will host the third T20I and second ODI. The opening Test, beginning on November 19, will be played at the Basin Reserve.

NZC Chief Marketing and Commercial Officer Glenn Critchley said the early response reflected the excitement surrounding India's visit.

“Our message to fans from the start has been to get organised to avoid missing out - and the record sales in the first two days proves many have listened. This is a rare chance for Kiwis to experience the incredible buzz of a game of cricket involving India and watch some of the biggest sport stars on the planet compete.

“We’ve deliberately kept the ticket prices the same as the previous season, and at under $30 a ticket using our Cricket Nation access code. We’re delighted fans are getting in early to secure their seats and with the general public sale still 11 days away, our message remains the same - get organised and don’t miss out,” Critchley said, as quoted by NZC.

Critchley also highlighted 'The Four' and 'The Six' group ticket packages, along with venue ticket bundles, as additional value options for supporters planning to attend multiple matches.

The general public sale is scheduled to begin on September 7. However, fans can still access the exclusive pre-sale by signing up for Cricket Nation, which also provides a 15% discount on tickets.

With India's visit bringing some of world cricket's biggest names to New Zealand and demand already reaching unprecedented levels, supporters have been urged to secure their seats well before the public sale begins.

Source: IANS

The post India tour sparks record ticket rush for New Zealand summer appeared first on Social News XYZ.

Rotterdam (the Netherlands), Aug 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) The inaugural season of the European T20 Premier League (ETPL) got off to a spectacular start on Wednesday, with a packed stadium and an overwhelming response from fans at the League’s opening match at Voorburg Cricket Club in The Hague.

The blockbuster opening clash saw Amsterdam Flames, captained by Ireland’s Scott Edwards, take on Rotterdam Dockers, led by Faf du Plessis. Adding to the excitement was the rivalry between the two franchises, with Amsterdam led by Steve Waugh’s team and Rotterdam by Jonty Rhodes’ team.

The opening match was attended by cricketing legends Rahul Dravid, Steve Waugh, Jonty Rhodes and Matthew Hayden, as fans turned out in huge numbers to witness the beginning of a new era for cricket in Europe.

Commenting on the inaugural season of the ETPL, Abhishek Bachchan said: “To see the stadium packed and the League finally come alive is an incredibly proud and emotional moment for all of us. This is the beginning of something we have believed in from day one, bringing world-class cricket to Europe and creating a new platform for the game and local players to grow.”

Commenting on the inaugural season, Dublin Guardians owner Rahul Dravid said: “What makes ETPL truly special is the incredible mix of world-class stars and rising talent. Seeing dynamic young players like Bas de Leede and Jai Moondra hold their own against top-tier opposition, alongside battle-tested stalwarts like Anrich Nortje running in with real pace, and Roelof van der Merwe bringing his years of experience, is exactly what we want to see.

Having top international stars share the field and rub shoulders with the next generation elevates the standard of the entire tournament.”

ETPL is a pioneering partnership between the cricket boards of Ireland, Scotland and the Netherlands, along with its founders Abhishek Bachchan, Priyanka Kaul, Saurav Banerjee and Dhiraj Malhotra.

The packed stands and incredible atmosphere at the opening match reflected the excitement and anticipation surrounding the League, marking a memorable beginning to ETPL’s inaugural season. A new chapter for cricket in Europe has begun.

Source: IANS

The post ETPL launches to a packed stadium in Rotterdam appeared first on Social News XYZ.

Chandigarh, Aug 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) Amritsar Soormas to lock horns with Mohali Kings in the opener when the two-week-long Sher-E-Punjab T20 League 2026 kicks off at the I.S. Bindra Stadium in Mohali this Sunday.

Punjab's cricketing stars are ready to light the stage with intense rivalries and a showcase of the region's established and emerging talent in the league organised by the Punjab Cricket Association (PCA), which gets underway on August 30 and runs until September 13.

Six franchises will battle it out for the ultimate glory. The teams have been divided into two groups, Group A and Group B. Group A comprises Mohali Kings, Fazilka Falcons and Jalandhar Warriors, while Group B consists of Bathinda Royals, Amritsar Soormas and Ludhiana Lions.

The tournament will open with an exciting clash between Amritsar Soormas and Mohali Kings on August 30, setting the tone for what promises to be a thrilling edition of the league.

The action will continue on August 31, with Jalandhar Warriors beginning their campaign against Fazilka Falcons in the afternoon fixture. Later in the evening, Mohali Kings will take on Bathinda Royals as the teams look to make an early statement in the competition.

The fixtures will continue thick and fast, with Ludhiana Lions beginning their campaign against Bathinda Royals on September 1 in the afternoon.

With six teams competing against each other, every match will be crucial as the franchises look to secure a place in the knockout stage. At the end of the league phase, the top four teams will advance to the semi-finals.

The race for the trophy will then reach its business end on September 12, when the two semi-finals will be played on the same day. The first semi-final will take place in the afternoon, followed by the second semi-final in the evening.

The first semifinal will be played between the team finishing at the top of Group A and the second-placed team in Group B. The second semifinal will see the Group B toppers take on the team finishing second in Group A.

The two victorious teams will then meet in the grand finale on September 13, with the winner lifting the coveted Sher-E-Punjab T20 League trophy.

With 27 matches scheduled across the tournament, the league will bring together some of Punjab's leading cricketers alongside a host of exciting young players looking to make their mark.

Sher-E-Punjab T20 League 2026 - Teams

Fazilka Falcons

Amritsar Soormas

Bathinda Royals

Jalandhar Warriors

Ludhiana Lions

Mohali Kings

Live Telecast - Sony Sports Ten 5 HD and Sony Sports Ten 5 SD

Live Streaming - Sony LIV.

Source: IANS

The post Sher-E-Punjab T20 League: Amritsar Soormas to meet Mohali Kings in opener appeared first on Social News XYZ.

New Delhi, Aug 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) Opener Anmol Sharma has expressed immense relief and satisfaction at reaching the 2026 Delhi Premier League (DPL) final after his fluent half-century propelled South Delhi Superstarz into the title clash by securing a 15-run victory over Central Delhi Kings.

Batting first at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, South Delhi Superstarz posted a formidable 193/7 in 20 overs before their bowlers dismissed Central Delhi Kings for 178 in 19.4 overs. Opener Anmol top-scored with a fluent 67 off 42 balls, while captain-wicketkeeper Tejasvi Dahiya smashed 57 off 33 deliveries.

“It feels really good to beat Central Delhi Kings and reach the final. When we finished in the top two, we watched their match last night and knew they were a very strong and dominating team in the league stage.

“We knew we had to be on our toes and minimise our mistakes. Our team has been playing really well over the last five or six matches, and everyone has contributed. Thankfully, our efforts paid off, and the result went in our favour,” Anmol said after the match ended.

Recovering from early blows, Anmol and Dahiya anchored the innings with a decisive partnership to set up the winning platform. “There was nothing specific going on in my mind when we lost early wickets. Our only focus was to build a partnership. When Tejas was batting with me, there was a lot of clarity between us.

“We knew that if we stayed at the crease and kept playing, the runs would come. Our main objective was to bat for as long as possible and take the game deep. Unfortunately, I got out in the 16th over, but until then, our focus was on building that partnership and giving ourselves the best chance of winning,” he added.

Source: IANS

The post DPL 2026: Feels really good to reach final; our efforts have paid off, says Anmol Sharma appeared first on Social News XYZ.

London, Aug 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) Former South Africa captain Dean Elgar announced on Wednesday that he will retire from all forms of professional cricket at the end of the ongoing 2026 season, and bring the curtain down on a decorated career spanning over two decades.

Elgar, 39, amassed 5347 runs for South Africa at an average of 37.92 in 86 Tests, including hitting 14 hundreds and a best score of 199 against Bangladesh in 2017. He also captained the Proteas 18 times, including in his final Test against India at Cape Town in January 2024, when Temba Bavuma was injured.

Elgar cited family priorities as the primary reason behind his decision to walk away from the game. “I feel it’s the right time for me now. I’m not getting any younger, 39 years old, and I’ve got a lot of things going on back home with regards to a young but growing-up-very-quickly family.

“It’s the right time for me now to be present at home and be there for my partner and my kids. It’s been a great journey so far. It’s not done yet, but at the end of the season, I will be retiring. I was fortunate enough to represent my country for twelve years and then had the responsibility of captaining (South Africa) - that’s one of the proudest moments of my career.

“If you look back at the journey of where I have come from, I don’t think many people would have given me a lot of hope of having a career (in cricket), let alone one that spans over two decades,” Elgar said in a statement by Essex.

Elgar, who captained South Africa in the 2006 Under-19 World Cup, has spent his post-international years representing Essex in the English County Championship, as a replacement for Alastair Cook, who retired in 2023. “There’s been a lot of proud moments during my time. Obviously, beating England at Lord’s as captain is one of them. That stands out quite profoundly, purely the way we played cricket and the style and brand in which we played it.

“The transition phase: we started as seventh in the World Rankings when I took over, and when I ended, we were second. When I joined Essex, I felt the pressure of having to replace Sir Alastair (Cook), but I knew that I needed to bring my own style of cricket.

“I’ve always had pride in my performances and, naturally, I play this game to win. Personal performances have never been something I’ve focused on. Every moment I’ve had on the park with the Essex boys, when we’ve won and had successes, has been an awesome highlight for me during my time at the Club.

“Looking ahead, I’d ideally have a sabbatical from cricket. It’s been a long journey, and I’ve been on the road for quite a long time. I’ve got my kids back home, and I now feel it’s my duty to stand up and play for them. I can only picture that when I land (back home), it’s going to be all hands on deck, but being a father is something I have really enjoyed.

“I’d hope people would remember me for playing the game hard and to win, someone who always took their cap off in defeat and shook the opposition’s hands with respect. Someone who was hardworking and hungry and would bleed and break bones for the team and do anything to win,” elaborated Elgar.

Elgar’s career drew high praise from the club's Director of Cricket Chris Silverwood. “Dean’s career is defined by longevity, resilience and deep commitment to cricket. With a career spanning more than two decades, his reputation as a senior, experienced opening batter has made him an extremely important figure during his time at Essex, particularly in helping develop the Club’s younger players.

“For Essex, his time was more than simply scoring runs. We had a player with international experience at Test level, proven credentials and an old-school appetite for occupying the crease, coupled with a hunger for victory. I wish Dean nothing but the best for his retirement. It’s been an absolute pleasure to have had him in my team.”

Essex Chief Executive Officer Dan Feist also lauded Elgar’s contribution to the club both on and off the field. “Dean’s retirement marks the conclusion of a fantastic cricket career, and we are hugely grateful for the immense value he brought to Essex County Cricket Club.

“Joining us after a legendary international career, Dean stepped into a crucial role at the top of the order and delivered with the exact grit, determination, and professional excellence we knew he possessed.

“Beyond the crucial runs he scored for Essex, his leadership and willingness to mentor our younger players have left our squad in a much stronger position for the future. He has embedded himself into the fabric of Essex Cricket, and we wish him and his family the absolute best in his well-deserved retirement.”

Source: IANS

The post Former SA captain Elgar to retire from all forms of cricket at end of 2026 season appeared first on Social News XYZ.

New Delhi, Aug 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) South Delhi Superstarz booked their place in the final of the 2026 Delhi Premier League (DPL) with a hard-fought 15-run victory over Central Delhi Kings in the Qualifier 1 held in New Delhi on Wednesday.

After posting a formidable total of 193/7 in their allotted 20 overs, South Delhi Superstarz produced a disciplined bowling display to dismiss Central Delhi Kings for 178 in 19.4 overs at the Arun Jaitley Stadium to seal their spot in the title clash.

Opting to bat first, South Delhi Superstarz were given a strong platform by opener Anmol Sharma, who struck a fluent 67 off 42 balls, laced with eight boundaries and two sixes. He found able support in captain–wicketkeeper–batter Tejasvi Dahiya, who produced an aggressive 57 off 33 balls, including hitting three fours and four sixes.

Their partnership kept the scoreboard ticking at a brisk pace and laid a solid foundation for an imposing total. The late overs saw useful cameos from Pranshu Vijayran (11 not out) and Vision Panchal (7 not out). For Central Delhi Kings, Gavnish Khurana was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 3-25, while Keshav Dabas claimed two wickets.

Chasing 194 for a place in the final, Central Delhi Kings suffered early setbacks against disciplined bowling by South Delhi Superstarz and were reduced to 71/5. However, Dabas and wicketkeeper-batter Vansh Bedi launched a stunning counter-attack to keep their side in the hunt.

Dabas smashed 59 off 35 balls, while Bedi hammered a quickfire 52 off just 24 balls, featuring five fours and four sixes. Their aggressive partnership briefly brought Central Delhi Kings back into the contest.

But South Delhi Superstarz held their nerve in the closing stages, with Divansh Rawat taking 3-29 and Vision Panchal picking two wickets to clean up the tail. Central Delhi Kings will now play Qualifier 2, to be held on Friday.

Source: IANS

The post DPL 2026: South Delhi Superstarz enter final after defeating Central Delhi Kings by 15 runs appeared first on Social News XYZ.

Lucknow, Aug 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) Gaur Gorakhpur Lions held their nerve in a final-over thriller to pull off a dramatic three-wicket victory over Kanpur Superstars via the DLS Method in a rain-curtailed UP T20 League encounter in Lucknow on Wednesday.

The result also meant opener Adarsh Singh’s historic century was in vain at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana International Cricket Stadium.

Opting to field after winning the toss, Gorakhpur skipper Aryan Juyal found his bowlers under immediate pressure as Adarsh, who played for India in the 2024 U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup, dominated from the outset.

Displaying exceptional power-hitting, Adarsh struck an unbeaten 101 off 54 balls, laced with three boundaries and nine sixes. His knock marked the first century of UP T20 League season four and the third overall in the tournament’s history. Adarsh’s blitz propelled Kanpur Superstars to a commanding 150/2 in 15.4 overs before heavy rain forced a lengthy stoppage.

When play eventually resumed, match officials revised the target to a steep 121 runs from 10 overs. The Lions launched an aggressive pursuit, racing to 73/4 in five overs thanks to a quickfire start from opener Abhay Pratap Singh, who smashed 33 off 17 deliveries.

Dot balls soon slowed the momentum, leaving Gorakhpur with the equation of needing 23 runs from the final 12 balls. Nishant Kushwah then turned the match on its head by aggressively targeting pacer Vineet Panwar to extract 17 runs from the penultimate over.

Needing six runs off the final over bowled by Ajay Kumar, the drama intensified. Ajay conceded two singles before dismissing Shivam Sharma, leaving Gorakhpur requiring four off three balls. However, the bowler faltered under pressure by delivering consecutive wides that brought the scores level.

Kushwah completed the chase in style by striking a boundary to seal a sensational win with two balls to spare. While Kanpur suffered their sixth loss in seven matches, Gorakhpur registered their third victory. Adarsh was named Player of the Match despite ending on the losing side.

Source: IANS

The post UPT20: Gorakhpur Lions snatch thrilling win over Kanpur Superstars despite Adarsh’s ton appeared first on Social News XYZ.

Colombo, Aug 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) India’s spin-bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule says technical work is actively underway to fix the overstepping flaw creeping into the bowlers' approach, while suggesting the introduction of free-hits in Test cricket could be a sure-fire way to end the habit.

The issue of no-balls resurfaced during the ongoing second Test against Sri Lanka at the Sinhalese Sports Club Ground, where Indian spinners overstepped 10 times -- the highest tally recorded by a spin unit in a single match since 2021.

Debutant off-spinner Saransh Jain and senior left-arm spin-bowling all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja came under the scanner for bowling a lot of no-balls, which has prompted questions over whether disciplined habits are slipping during net sessions.

"It is something we have been working on. It is a concern, but generally, when the bowler is putting in that effort, trying to see how he can create that opportunity and get a wicket in situations where wickets are not coming, he has a tendency to push himself.

“But this is not an excuse. A lot of work has been put in with Jadeja, and with Saransh, about where the take-off point is," Bahutule told reporters in the post-day press conference.

Addressing whether extra effort on specific deliveries causes bowlers to overstep their crease, Bahutule added, "But sometimes, the effort they put in for that particular delivery is a bit more, and they tend to overstep. I am sure they will rectify it and get better."

Quizzed on how to eliminate the no-ball error from the longest format, the former India leg-spinner offered a half-joking penalty mechanism borrowed from limited-overs formats.

"I am no guardian of the rules, but if a free-hit comes, obviously, no-balls will definitely be reduced. No team would want to bowl those no-balls and give that extra ball and give those extra runs. Obviously, the take-off point is talked about. They understand what is happening, and definitely a process will be put forward in terms of minimising."

Bahutule dismissed suggestions that net sessions lack strict oversight, adding that coaching staff closely monitor crease discipline during practice. "Reminders are given during nets also. It is similar to a match situation. We take every session seriously; it is monitored from the side view.

“It is monitored generally. Sometimes, I stand as an umpire, and other coaches do too. We are monitoring spinners and fast bowlers. So, we definitely give importance to it and work on it."

Despite the no-balls, Bahutule commended Jain for holding his nerve amidst aggressive counter-attacks from Sri Lanka's middle order, including a stubborn knock from Sonal Dinusha. "He toiled in domestic cricket and got his due. Making a Test debut is special, and there were nerves.

“He showed a lot of character despite certain decisions not going his way, and was consistent in his line and length. He doesn’t have over-spin but has side-spin. Each one played their role. Saransh was defensive, Manav Suthar played his role, and Jadeja was tight," he concluded.

Source: IANS

The post Bahutule targets improving overstepping flaw, quips free-hits could curb no-balls in Tests appeared first on Social News XYZ.

New Delhi, Aug 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) Long before the first ball of the 2027 Women’s Premier League (WPL), Neetu David is already at work from the edge of the boundary ropes, watching the subtle mechanics of a player simply walking across the field.

For the former India left-arm spinner, who spent five years as chief selector and signed off from her tenure by selecting the 2025 ODI World Cup-winning team, a cricketer’s stride reveals far more to her than any conventional stat sheet.

Now taking on the role of chief scout for WPL franchise UP Warriorz, Neetu brings her uniquely intuitive barometer to the high-stakes world of franchise cricket and the scouting universe. “I can't speak for what others do. But in terms of my process, what I like to see and what I think, according to me, is that the walking style of the players tells how the player will be.

“I tend to understand a player based on how their walking style is -- whether it is very agile or slow or very mentally tough. Seeing that helps me gain the initial understanding, and when I go to watch a match, I like to go before the match so that I can see how the players are doing their respective work in the outfield, and I focus a lot on it.

“Yes, because it makes a lot of difference to see the player in a match and what she is doing before playing that game. I also see her body language before and after the match. It shows you a lot of things, and this is my personal view,” Neetu told IANS in an exclusive interview on Wednesday.

That sharp eye for hidden potential has already given a lot of players to the national side, especially after WPL began in 2023. “There are a lot of players we see and think that they are not ready. But they are ready for the challenge. When Kranti Gaud came, she didn't know anything. But today she is a star. When Sree Charani came, she didn't know anything.

“We used to think, what will she play? But when you watch her bowling, you will feel that this girl is very different. There are a lot of things that we don't understand. But when we set up a camp, we understand that we have chosen the right player. Like, this is the right player, and she will go ahead,” adds Neetu.

Her entry to the UPW set-up is an interesting tale - exhausted after wrapping up an assignment with the Bihar team, Neetu initially sought time off before a persuasive call from a trusted person in her circle sealed the deal.

“Kshemal (Waingankar, COO) ji called me and asked me if I was interested or not. So, I told him to give me two days' time because my Bihar assignment was just over and I was not getting time for myself.

“So, I gave him this answer directly because I did not know what the system was. But after two days, I called and discussed with my senior, who is very important to me, and the reply which came was, ‘Aap immediately haan bol do as ek toh yeh aapki apni franchise hai (You immediately say yes to it as first of all, it is your franchise).’ Then I called Kshemal ji and told him that, ‘I am okay, I am in’.”

Moving from tracking state age-group tournaments to see who can go to U19 and senior Indian teams to observing various leagues has presented a sharp learning curve even for an ICC Hall of Famer like Neetu, who knows the best of all the worlds. “There is a lot of difference, as in the domestic circuit, you do know how your players are because you have been watching them since the U-15s.

“Here, the role is a little different because you have to follow international cricket, and all the leagues, tournaments, or whatever is going on right now in India and overseas. You have to follow everything right now, and for me, it is a little bit of a new thing, and the support staff of UP Warriorz has helped me a lot. I am trying to get more into this thing, and I am seeing that there are a lot of difficulties, but I am also enjoying it a lot, and it’s very interesting too,” she said.

Despite the variance in international team selection and assembling a franchise T20 team, Neetu maintains that there are still some similarities. “I feel that both are equal in a lot of ways. In the domestic and international cricket circuits I have seen and experienced so far, there are a lot of age groups, and there are a lot of tournaments.

“So, you have to focus a lot on the performance of each state and each kid and see their performance and data very carefully. When you go to internationals, it is the same, and there are not a lot of difficulties because there is not a lot of junior-level cricket. So, I don't think there is a lot of difference in that,” she added.

The primary puzzle for UPW, a side yet to win the WPL and wooden spooners in the last two seasons, to solve is also identifying players capable of carrying the mental burden of franchise cricket. “For that, we have to see a lot of things because right now, while looking for players for India, there were difficulties. I won't say that there weren't any.

“But here, I have to think about a lot of things. Like there are international cricketers and our national cricketers, and considering that, we have to think a lot about whether this player will be able to play at that level or not. Will she be able to handle the pressure or not? This is a bit of a big challenge for us.”

Yet, Neetu remains optimistic about the upward trajectory of the Indian talent pool since WPL’s inception. “It’s been very good. Earlier, we had very few bench strength players. But now you will have so many players who can go to play for India. We think that because of the injuries, we are not getting many players. But now you will have a backup of every player in every side in the coming years,” she added.

With an off-season camp done recently in Bengaluru under head coach Abhishek Nayar and mentor Lisa Sthalekar, UPW is laying the groundwork one step at a time for having a memorable 2027 WPL.

“Yes, we had an off-season camp there, and some players had come. We were discussing with Abhishek and Lisa that we want to see our combination, and we want to see the ready players.

“So, there are some players that we are looking at, and maybe we are thinking of setting up another camp. We will have a meeting again, and we will decide how and what to do. So, there are a lot of players that we like, and we will discuss about it.”

“Our endeavour is that we are looking for good players for the future. We have seen a lot of options, keeping in mind the auctions. When we set up a camp, we will have final discussions with Abhishek and Lisa. Like, what should be the next combination of the team? What kind of players do we need the most? We will proceed accordingly,” signed off Neetu.

Source: IANS

The post Walking style, body language show everything – Inside UPW chief scout David’s philosophy appeared first on Social News XYZ.

Colombo, Aug 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) India’s decision to enforce the follow-on came under serious scrutiny before their bowlers regained control late on the fourth day of the second Test against Sri Lanka, with rain eventually forcing an early close at the Sinhalese Sports Club Ground.

Sri Lanka, bowled out for 290 in their first innings after resuming the day at 265 for eight, were asked to bat again after falling 213 runs short of India’s imposing 503 for nine declared. By close of day, the hosts had reached 227 for six, a lead of 16, leaving India four wickets away from victory but with the weather threatening to become the decisive factor.

India made early inroads when Mohammed Siraj removed Lahiru Udara for three, before Ravindra Jadeja accounted for Kamil Mishara for 32. But the hosts then produced their best batting passage of the match.

Pasindu Sooriyabandara, who had made a composed 80 in the first innings, again stood between India and a possible victory. He combined aggression against the spinners with sound defence to build a substantial third-wicket stand with Kamindu Mendis. The pair added 115 runs, taking Sri Lanka from 63 for two to 178 for three and, for a period, making India's follow-on decision look increasingly costly.

Both batters reached their half-centuries, with Mendis particularly fluent. Sri Lanka's growing confidence was reflected in India's body language as the deficit rapidly diminished.

The breakthrough, when it came, was a product of pressure and an excellent piece of fielding. Prasidh Krishna went short to Mendis, who attempted to pull, only for the ball to balloon towards square leg. Shubman Gill ran back and across before completing a superb catch. Mendis departed for 55 off 92 balls, ending a partnership that had put Sri Lanka firmly back in contention.

At tea, Sri Lanka were 199 for three, still 14 runs behind, with Sooriyabandara unbeaten on 90. India had been made to wait for the wicket that could turn the innings, but the final session finally provided it.

Manav Suthar broke through when Sri Lankan captain Dhananjaya de Silva, having made 23, inside-edged a flatter delivery onto his thigh pad, with Devdutt Padikkal taking the resulting catch. Sooriyabandara then fell for 92 off 173 balls, again missing out on a maiden Test hundred.

Having survived an LBW review after an inside edge, he charged Suthar the very next ball, only to be beaten by a slower delivery and stumped by Rishabh Pant. The dismissal was the product of sharp thinking by Pant, who sensed that Sooriyabandara was becoming restless and warned the field accordingly.

Sri Lanka slipped further when Saransh Jain trapped Niroshan Dickwella LBW for six, leaving the hosts at 218 for six. Sonal Dinusha and Keshara Nuwantha then dug in, but the innings became increasingly defensive as India tightened the screws.

The final phase also exposed an untidy aspect of India’s bowling. The spinners repeatedly overstepped, with Ravindra Jadeja and Saransh Jain both conceding no-balls.

India bowled 10 no-balls through their spin attack, the most by a spin attack in a Test since 2021, behind Afghanistan's 15 against Bangladesh in Mirpur in 2023 and India's own 14 against England in Chennai in 2021. Jadeja's three no-balls also took his career tally to 88 in Tests, the most by a spinner since 2021.

Just as India appeared capable of making further progress, rain intervened at 227 for six. The players left the field at 4.37 pm local time and, with the rain growing heavier and the square fully covered, the umpires eventually abandoned play for the day.

For much of the day, Sri Lanka had threatened to overturn the narrative. After being bowled out for 290 in the morning, they responded to the follow-on with considerably greater resolve.

Sooriyabandara's twin half-centuries, Mendis' 55 and the 115-run third-wicket partnership briefly raised the prospect of Sri Lanka forcing India to bat again.

Instead, India's late burst has restored the visitors' advantage. Sri Lanka lead by only 16 runs, with four wickets remaining, and India's second new ball is now less than eight overs away.

The forecast predicts more rain on the last day, but if enough play is allowed, India will aim to quickly dismiss the remaining four wickets and chase what should still be a modest target.

Sri Lanka, on the other hand, will depend on their lower order to extend the lead sufficiently, giving both the weather and their bowlers a chance to turn a risky situation into a contest. After a day marked by rapid shifts in momentum, the outcome remains within India's reach, although the rain might ultimately decide the result.

Brief scores:

India 503/9 decl. trail Sri Lanka 290 and (f/o) 229/6 in 72.4 overs (Pasindu Sooriyabandara 92 not out, Kamindu Mendis 55; Manav Suthar 2-81, Mohammed Siraj 1-11, Ravindra Jadeja 1-48) by 16 runs.

Source: IANS

The post 2nd Test: SL fight back against India to reach 229/4 before rain ends Day 4 early appeared first on Social News XYZ.

New Delhi, Aug 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) Shubham Gautam, the breakout pacer of the ongoing UP T20 League, believes that express pace can quickly turn from an asset into a handicap without consistency in line and length, as he looks to add more notable performances to his tally in the competition.

With his ability to extract steep bounce and hurry batters with express pace, Gautam was picked for Rs 21.5 lakh by Noida Kings after standing out in the Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association’s (UPCA) speed hunt, impressing in his recent outing against Lucknow Falcons by returning with figures of 3-22.

"The pace can be your friend or your foe. You can get a top edge off a fast ball, and it can go for six. But you can also scare the tail-ender with your pace. But a proper batsman doesn't get scared of the pace – if the ball goes here or there, then it goes for a six. In that way, many a time the pace can be your friend or your enemy. If you hit the right place, then it's good," Gautam told IANS in an exclusive interaction from Lucknow.

Hailing from Dibi village in Bulandshahr district, Gautam adjusted his tactics after a quiet opening game, in which he recorded 0-17 against Kanpur Superstars, to yield immediate results. "In the first match, I wasn't playing very well. But in the second match, I was bowling consistently at one place. The captain, Madhav (Kaushik) bhaiya, told me that I have to bowl at one place.

“So, I bowled and got three wickets. I made this change in the second match from the first game. I used to bowl in local matches, and whichever way I bowled, it was fine. But here, if you bowl here or there and aren’t consistent, the batters will be hitting you for four or six. So, it's hugely important to bowl at the right place and read the batters well."

Gautam's journey started in 2017 when he joined a local academy in Tiwai run by coach Ankit. To maintain his passion and help his family, he actively participated in tennis-ball cricket. "I started playing cricket in 2017. So, I started with fast bowling. That's how it was. When I was living in Bulandshahar district, there was a local place called Tiwai where a bowling coach named Ankit bhaiya ran his academy.

“I joined his academy, and he told me what I had to do. That's how I became a fast bowler. I used to play tennis-ball cricket as well, as it helped me financially. It was important as I had to buy shoes. I had to pay for my diet as well. If I was going out to play and had to pay for accommodation, I used to get help for everything."

The financial security from his UP T20 league contract has brought much-needed relief and avenues for personal development. "Yes, from the signing amount, I will get a lot of help. Like if I need another coach for myself, that amount can help me with it."

Admiring the skills of veteran India seamer Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Gautam revealed his desire to learn swing and accuracy from the senior bowler. "Yes, I met him in Lucknow. I couldn't talk much with him. But it felt brilliant as it was my first time meeting an Indian player. I liked it a lot. Everyone is influenced by his bowling.

“The way bhaiya swings the ball and bowls consistently at one place, you get to learn a lot from him. In UP, Bhuvi bhai is my favourite. Outside of UP, I like Jasprit Bumrah. Outside of India, I like Jofra Archer. I will try to talk a lot more to Bhuvi bhaiya in Kanpur or even on call because I wish to ask him a couple of questions."

Transitioning from local grounds to playing in televised games has become a surreal experience for the youngster and his family. "It has been good. I have joined the league this year, so it has been good. UP T20 league has a very good atmosphere. So, I am feeling very good. I have seen IPL on TV, so I have joined for the first time. So, I am feeling really great.

"A lot has changed in my life since the speed hunt. Earlier, I didn't play much. But because of the speed hunt, I came to the UP T20 League. Now, it feels like a lot of people are watching me. I am also appearing on TV and Hotstar, so it feels really wonderful. My family watches my games and says that I have to do better. Everyone watches till 11 or 12 in the night. They watched Tuesday’s game as well."

Maintaining fitness remains non-negotiable for the express quick. "For fitness, the physio and trainers have provided ice baths, pool and drinks for recovery. These are the things which help in fast recovery. They have provided an ice bath for everyone. Our trainer provides an ice bath whenever the game is done in the evening, especially if it's an afternoon game."

Speaking about the team culture at Noida Kings, Gautam added, "It's been good. The team atmosphere is good. A lot of people support me. They tell me to do what I have been doing. There will be a change of conditions in going from Lucknow to Kanpur. I will follow the coaches' advice on what to do there."

Gratified by the opportunity, Gautam extended his appreciation to the UPCA and tournament organisers while encouraging other aspiring pacers to never give up. "If I bowl well here, then it's God's will to see whether I get selected or not and take me to a higher level. But I can't put into words how much this platform means to me.

“I would like to thank Rajeev sir because, because of him, the Speed Hunt came out and I got selected in the UPT20 League. Now, coming here, a lot of people are watching me. I can't tell you much in words because a lot of people are watching me bowl.

"I would like to say to keep going because God does watch those efforts. I stayed connected to cricket, and then speed hunt came along, and I got a chance to play in the UP T20 league. By seeing me, I hope other boys will also get a chance to play the tournament," he concluded.

Source: IANS

The post UPT20 League: Speed can be your friend or foe, accuracy key to success, says Shubham Gautam appeared first on Social News XYZ.

New Delhi, Aug 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) India pacer Arshdeep Singh said he is keen to prove he has the skills and stamina required for Test cricket, with a rare first-class appearance in the Duleep Trophy giving him an opportunity to make his case for a place in the longest format.

Arshdeep, who has played 18 ODIs and 91 T20Is for India, is still waiting for his Test debut. His focus on white-ball cricket has limited his chances in red-ball matches, causing him to wait nearly a year between his 22nd and 23rd first-class games.

The 2026 Duleep Trophy quarter-final against West Zone in Bengaluru turned out to be a crucial test for Arshdeep. He delivered sustained spells in both innings, ending with figures of 3/53 and 1/40, helping North Zone win by 52 runs.

“Very rarely do I get the chance to play red-ball cricket, and this was a chance. I wanted to showcase my skill set and just see how many overs I can bowl. The rhythm feels nice. After a long time, I was playing a red-ball game. I put in a lot of hours in practice, and it felt nice. The body is sore, but it’s a good sore because we got the win,” Arshdeep said after the game, as quoted by Cricinfo.

The 27-year-old also shared that he changed his training approach before the tournament, shifting his focus to red-ball bowling after mostly playing white-ball cricket recently.

“This time around, I knew the Duleep Trophy was coming, I was practising with red ball. When white-ball season is coming, then you practice with the white ball. It’s very specific training based on what kind of season is coming in front of you,” he added.

Arshdeep finds the main appeal of red-ball cricket in the chance to continually challenge batters. His head coach, Ajay Sharma, highlighted this point to him before the match.

“Ajay Sharma, our head coach, just told me that ‘even if you don’t get wickets with the new ball, you have a chance to come back in the second spell’. Red ball has that beauty of giving you a chance again,” he said.

Arshdeep has previously played county cricket, appearing in five matches for Kent in 2023. He believes the experience of playing red-ball cricket in England can be valuable, although India’s crowded schedule makes another county stint difficult.

“Whenever you get a chance, whenever there is a time frame you can go to England to play county cricket, that is a really good experience, but now, with the IPL, the white-ball season at home, and domestic cricket also going on, you can’t go play county. There are crucial games getting played here. We want to push our domestic cricket as well and make sure the level doesn’t drop down. We all choose to play here and give our best,” he said.

Arshdeep noted that the Bengaluru surface posed a unique challenge. Although it was overcast, the pitch favoured the spinners, requiring him to rely on strategic variations in his plans and field placements rather than traditional seam movement.

“On wickets like this, you just have to play with the mind. Sometimes you get success, sometimes you get hit for across-the-line six as well. So you got to take both and just keep trying,” he said.

He added that bowling on a helpful pitch requires patience, while flatter surfaces demand greater tactical thinking, saying, “When you have purchase from the wicket, when they seam, when they swing, that’s when you stay patient; that’s when you just keep hitting lengths. When it’s a different wicket, when there’s nothing off the pitch and just variable bounce, you just got to play with the field and try out different things.”

Source: IANS

The post ‘I wanted to showcase my skillset’: Arshdeep eyes Test chance after Duleep Trophy return appeared first on Social News XYZ.