With only a few hours left before the much-awaited India vs England semi-final in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, excitement has reached fever pitch among cricket fans. Mumbai’s iconic Wankhede Stadium will host the blockbuster clash on Thursday, as defending champions India take on Harry Brook’s England for a place in the grand final at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium on March 8. As anticipation builds for the high-stakes encounter, fans across the country are scrambling for tickets and making last-minute plans to be part of the action.

IND vs ENG, T20 World Cup 2026 Semi-Final 2: Match details

The second semi-final is scheduled to begin at 7:00 pm IST, with stadium gates opening for spectators at 4:00 pm IST. Interestingly, this will be the third consecutive T20 World Cup semi-final meeting between India and England, after their clashes in 2022 and 2024. With both teams boasting explosive batting lineups and strong bowling attacks, the stage is perfectly set for a thrilling contest under the lights at Wankhede.

Slim chance of tickets for the marquee clash

Unsurprisingly, tickets for this high-voltage clash have been snapped up quickly. According to reports, tickets sold through the official platforms – BookMyShow and the ICC’s ticketing website – have already been marked as sold out. The initial ticket sale opened on February 24 at 7:00 pm IST, and the demand was so overwhelming that most categories were booked within minutes.

However, fans who missed out may still have a slim chance. There is a possibility that a limited number of “sponsor return tickets” could be released roughly 24 hours before the match. While there has been no official confirmation yet, fans are advised to keep checking the official booking platforms for any last-minute availability.

Ticket prices and seating categories

Ticket prices for the semi-final varied widely depending on seating category and location inside the stadium. Reports suggested that prices started at around ₹1,000 for general seats and went significantly higher upto ₹10,000 for premium areas. Wankhede Stadium, which can host around 33,000 spectators, offers several seating options including General Stands, Lower Tier, Mid-Tier, Premium Seats, Club Level and VIP Hospitality sections. Like most online bookings, a convenience fee is added to the ticket price during checkout.

One important detail for those who managed to secure tickets is that entry to the stadium is completely digital for this World Cup. Fans must ensure they have downloaded their M-ticket beforehand and keep it available offline. Mobile networks around the Marine Drive area often become overloaded on match days, making it difficult to access apps at the last moment.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026 – Wankhede pitch under spotlight ahead of IND vs ENG semifinal

Watching the cricket match in theatres

For fans who couldn’t get their hands on stadium tickets, there’s still a great way to experience the excitement. Several theatres across Mumbai will screen the match live on the big screen, giving fans the chance to enjoy the atmosphere with fellow supporters. Popular locations like INOX, PVR, and Miraj Cinemas across Mumbai, Navi Mumbai and Thane will host screenings in both Hindi and English.

Show timings are expected to begin between 6:00 pm and 6:40 pm, with ticket prices ranging from ₹150 to ₹1500, depending on the theatre and seating option.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026 Semifinals – Date, Match Time, Venue, Broadcast and Live Streaming details

As India celebrates the vibrant festival of Holi, the cricket fraternity has joined millions of fans in spreading joy and positivity through heartfelt social media messages. From legendary players like Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli to IPL franchises embracing AI-powered creativity, the cricketing world came together to wish fans a colourful and safe celebration amid the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026.

Happy Holi!

Virat Kohli, who remains one of cricket’s most followed personalities, shared a story on his Instagram platform with a heartfelt message: “Happy Holi. May this festival of colours bring success, happiness, and positivity to your life.”  The former Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) captain will soon be seen in action during the IPL 2026.

Taking to X (formerly Twitter), the Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar wrote: “Happy Holi! Hope this day brings positivity, good health, and lots of happy moments your way. If you end up completely drenched, consider it a winning performance!”

India head coach Gautam Gambhir, currently preparing the team for their crucial T20 World Cup semifinal against England, also took a moment to extend warm wishes: “Wishing everyone a very happy & colourful Holi!”

Wishing everyone a very happy & colourful Holi! #HappyHoli pic.twitter.com/q6keO5DP6V

— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) March 4, 2026

ICC Chairman Jay Shah shared his wishes on the eve of Holi: “May the festival of colours bring joy, prosperity, and harmony to your life. Wishing you and your family a safe, vibrant, and blessed Holi filled with happiness and togetherness!” 

May the festival of colours bring joy, prosperity, and harmony to your life. Wishing you and your family a safe, vibrant, and blessed Holi filled with happiness and togetherness ! pic.twitter.com/hycL7ERUuI

— Jay Shah (@JayShah) March 4, 2026

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Devajit Saikia shared his greetings on X: “May the colours of Holi fill your life with joy, happiness, and prosperity! Wishing a fun-filled celebration.”

Also READ: Arjun Tendulkar-Saaniya Chandhok Pre-Wedding – Yuvraj Singh, Irfan Pathan And Others Attend Glittering Mehendi-Sangeet Ceremony

Popular IPL franchises embrace AI creativity for festive posts

May every colour you throw carry happiness and a little extra Yellove 💛🎨
Here’s to a Holi filled with smiles and joy ✨🥳#WhistlePodu #Yellove 🦁💛 #HappyHoli pic.twitter.com/FzOfogKjKL

— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) March 4, 2026

ಬಣ್ಣಗಳ ಹಬ್ಬ ಹೋಳಿಯ ಶುಭಾಶಯಗಳು! 🙌🌈

Wishing a very happy Holi from all of us at RCB! ✨🤗#PlayBold #ನಮ್ಮRCB pic.twitter.com/7VPGN5M2Kh

— Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@RCBTweets) March 4, 2026

Wishing everyone a bright, happy, and colourful Holi 🎨 pic.twitter.com/edF1kgvWiP

— KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) March 3, 2026

Holi wishes with extra thandai & unlimited mithai 💛 🕺 pic.twitter.com/nLrZFwBicE

— Lucknow Super Giants (@LucknowIPL) March 4, 2026

May this day be filled with lots of colors, blessings and roars ✨💙 pic.twitter.com/xn3GmBWfZD

— Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) March 4, 2026

Himmat, daleri, kurbani, jazba, pyaar da hi dooja naam Punjab, sajna 🦁

Hola Mohalla di lakh lakh mubarkan, Punjabio! 🧡 pic.twitter.com/RSoPJIm2d0

— Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) March 4, 2026

Happy Holi from ours to yours 🤗🫟 pic.twitter.com/5dCe9qWY9H

— SunRisers Hyderabad (@SunRisers) March 4, 2026

Pehchano inn faces ko 😉🎨 pic.twitter.com/dqC7cQmuka

— Gujarat Titans (@gujarat_titans) March 3, 2026

Bura na maano Holi hai 😂💗 pic.twitter.com/GQS2rzrvxe

— Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) March 3, 2026

Paltan, तुमची होळी सुरु झाली का? 😃 pic.twitter.com/cTMiDLGkGB

— Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) March 3, 2026

Also READ: Virat Kohli’s dream list – Qualities he wishes to inherit from SRK, Dhoni, Ronaldo, Messi, Tendulkar, Taylor Swift and The Rock

In a move that signals the beginning of a new chapter for Pakistan cricket, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has unveiled a 15-member squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Bangladesh – one that notably leaves out former captain Babar Azam.

The announcement, made on Wednesday, comes on the heels of Pakistan’s disappointing T20 World Cup 2026 campaign and marks one of the most dramatic squad overhauls in recent years. What has truly caught everyone’s attention is the inclusion of six uncapped players, highlighting the selectors’ clear intent to rebuild with fresh talent.

Shaheen Afridi will continue to lead the ODI side despite Pakistan’s early exit from the T20 World Cup at the Super Eight stage. The left-arm pacer retains the captaincy as the team looks to move forward with a revamped squad. Experienced players like Mohammad Rizwan, Haris Rauf, and Salman Ali Agha remain part of the team, providing a sense of continuity. However, the absence of Babar Azam – arguably Pakistan’s most successful active ODI batter – has stunned fans and experts, marking the first time in his career that he has been dropped from the ODI setup.

Youth takes centre stage in Pakistan’s ODI squad for Bangladesh tour

The selectors have clearly chosen to invest in youth, handing maiden call-ups to six uncapped players: Abdul Samad, Maaz Sadaqat, Muhammad Ghazi Ghori, Saad Masood, Sahibzada Farhan and Shamyl Hussain. Several of these players recently featured for Pakistan Shaheens against England Lions in Abu Dhabi, giving them valuable exposure against strong opposition.

Among the newcomers, Sahibzada Farhan stands out after a sensational T20 World Cup campaign. The explosive opener finished as the tournament’s highest run-scorer, piling up 383 runs in six innings at an incredible average of 76.60 and a strike rate of 160.25. He also made history by becoming the first player in the tournament to score two centuries in a single edition. Another promising name is Maaz Sadaqat, who impressed in the 2025 Rising Stars Asia Cup. The young all-rounder topped the run charts with 258 runs in five innings while maintaining a staggering strike rate of nearly 178, and he also contributed with seven wickets.

Meanwhile, Fakhar Zaman misses out due to the hamstring injury he sustained during the T20 World Cup 2026, while players like Saim Ayub, Haseebullah, Mohammad Nawaz and Naseem Shah have also been left out. The pace attack will be spearheaded by Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf, with Mohammad Wasim Jr providing additional support. In the spin department, Abrar Ahmed and Faisal Akram will be expected to add variety.

Also READ: PCB set to penalise Pakistan players following underwhelming display at T20 World Cup 2026 – Reports

Pakistan will travel to Dhaka on March 8 ahead of the ODI series against Bangladesh, with a practice session scheduled for March 10. All three matches will take place at the Shere Bangla National Stadium on March 11, 13 and 15. The tour comes less than a year after Pakistan last visited Bangladesh, when the hosts won the T20I series in July 2025.

Pakistan’s 15-man ODI squad

Shaheen Shah Afridi (captain), Abdul ​Samad, Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Faisal Akram, Haris Rauf, ⁠Hussain Talat, Maaz Sadaqat, Mohammad ⁠Rizwan (wicketkeeper), Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Muhammad Ghazi Ghori (wicketkeeper), Saad Masood, ‌Sahibzada Farhan, Salman Ali Agha, Shamyl Hussain

Also READ: Shahid Afridi blasts next potential captain of Pakistan after T20 World Cup 2026 exit amid leadership crisis debate

The pre-wedding celebrations for Arjun Tendulkar, son of cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar, and his fiancée Saaniya Chandhok kicked off in grand style in Mumbai on Tuesday night, with a galaxy of cricket stars including Yuvraj Singh, Irfan Pathan, Harbhajan Singh and Zaheer Khan attending the combined mehendi and sangeet ceremony . The star-studded evening, hosted by Sachin and Anjali Tendulkar at a venue in South Mumbai, saw the who’s who of Indian cricket come together to bless the couple ahead of their wedding scheduled for March 5 .

Tendulkar family dazzles in traditional ensembles

The Tendulkar family stole the spotlight as they arrived in stunning traditional outfits for the occasion. The Master Blaster himself chose a bright green kurta-pyjama set, which he paired with a printed jacket, looking every bit the gracious host. His wife Anjali Tendulkar glittered in a gorgeous deep blue ensemble accessorised with elaborate jewellery, completing the regal family portrait.

Daughter Sara Tendulkar looked radiant in a beautiful pink lehenga, adding to the family’s festive charm.

The soon-to-be groom, Arjun Tendulkar, opted for a sophisticated beige bandhgala set befitting the joyous occasion, while his bride-to-be Saaniya Chandhok stunned in a pastel gota-patti lehenga with soft pink accents, complemented by heavy jewellery and traditional kaleeras.

Arjun Tendulkar with Fiance Saaniya & Both Side Family Arrived For Mehendi & Sangeet #arjuntendulkar #entertainmentvideo #viral #trending #fyp pic.twitter.com/hWJKiFP76A

— entertainment Video (@entertainm58059) March 3, 2026

The couple, who got engaged in August 2025, was seen holding hands in videos that have since gone viral on social media, their chemistry evident as they mingled with guests.

Cricket’s who’s who grace the occasion

The guest list read like a who’s who of Indian cricket, with former stars arriving with their families to shower blessings on the couple. Yuvraj Singh, the hero of India’s 2011 World Cup triumph, arrived with his wife, actress-model Hazel Keech, adding glamour to the proceedings.

The Pathan brothers – Irfan and Yusuf – were also in attendance with their wives Safa Baig and Afreen respectively, bringing their trademark warmth to the celebrations.

Harbhajan Singh, ever the life of any party, was spotted with his wife, former actress Geeta Basra, while Zaheer Khan arrived with his wife, actress Sagarika Ghatge, the couple posing happily for the cameras.

Ravi Shastri, former India head coach and cricket commentator, was also seen at the venue, adding to the cricketing royalty present.

Ajit Agarkar, the current BCCI chairman of selectors, made time to attend the celebrations despite his busy schedule with the ongoing T20 World Cup. The presence of these cricket icons underscored the deep respect and affection the cricketing fraternity holds for the Tendulkar family.

Viral moments from the celebrations

Social media has been abuzz with videos and pictures from the mehendi-sangeet ceremony. One particularly touching moment captured Sachin Tendulkar posing proudly with his son Arjun, the emotion evident on the cricket legend’s face. Another video showed the entire Tendulkar and Chandhok families coming together for a group photograph, encapsulating the joy of the occasion.

Tendulkar & Chandok families come together for Arjun & Saaniya’s Mehndi Ceremony ❤️😍
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.#ArjunAndSaaniya #MehndiCelebration #TendulkarFamily #ChandokFamily #WeddingVibes #IndiaForums pic.twitter.com/igWGIZwfJ5

— India Forums (@indiaforums) March 3, 2026

Also WATCH: Sachin Tendulkar turns emotional for son Arjun at pre-wedding bash with Saaniya Chandhok in Jamnagar

Wedding set for March 5

With the mehendi and sangeet ceremony successfully concluded, both families now prepare for the main wedding ceremony on Thursday, March 5. The wedding is expected to be an intimate affair held at a high-security venue in South Mumbai, followed by a dinner reception.

Sachin Tendulkar has personally extended invitations to top dignitaries including President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi. The presence of these national leaders alongside cricket royalty will make the wedding one of the most high-profile social events of the year.

For Arjun, who was traded from Mumbai Indians (MI) to Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) for IPL 2026, this week marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter both personally and professionally. As the Tendulkar family celebrates, the cricketing world joins in wishing the couple a lifetime of happiness.

Also READ: Mohammad Amir makes a bold prediction ahead of India’s T20 World Cup 2026 semi-final clash with England

Pakistan’s preparations for the upcoming Bangladesh tour have suffered a major blow as experienced batter Fakhar Zaman has been ruled out of the three-match ODI series. The setback comes at a time when Pakistan are already trying to regroup following their disappointing exit from the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.

Why Fakhar Zaman will not tour Bangladesh?

The 35-year-old picked up the injury during Pakistan’s final Super 8 match of the T20 World Cup 2026 and will now undergo rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Lahore as he works toward regaining full fitness.

Fakhar sustained the injury while playing a remarkable innings against Sri Lanka on February 28 at the Pallekele International Stadium. In what turned out to be a high-pressure encounter, the aggressive opener delivered a sensational knock of 84 runs off just 42 balls. Batting with trademark flair, he smashed nine boundaries and four towering sixes, giving Pakistan a strong platform. Although Pakistan managed to win the match, the victory came too late to keep their World Cup campaign alive. Despite the disappointment of the early exit, Fakhar’s fearless innings stood out as one of the highlights of Pakistan’s final outing in the tournament.

Interestingly, Fakhar had a limited role throughout the competition. He featured in only two matches during the World Cup campaign, missing the group-stage games against the Netherlands, USA, India, and Namibia. He returned to the playing XI during the Super Eight stage, scoring 25 runs against England before producing his explosive half-century against Sri Lanka. Unfortunately, his injury during that innings has now forced him to miss the Bangladesh series.

Fakhar’s absence will undoubtedly leave a gap in Pakistan’s top order. Over the years, the left-hander has established himself as one of the team’s most dependable ODI batters. In 92 ODIs, he has scored 3,861 runs at an impressive average of 45.42 and a strike rate of over 93. His record includes 11 centuries, with his most memorable knock being the unbeaten 210 against Zimbabwe in 2018. Fakhar is also fondly remembered for his match-winning century in the 2017 Champions Trophy final against India, which remains one of the defining moments of Pakistan’s white-ball cricket history.

Also READ: Will PCB sack him? Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha responds after T20 World Cup debacle

Who will replace Fakhar Zaman in Pakistan’s ODI squad?

Meanwhile, the Pakistan squad is scheduled to depart for Dhaka on March 9. The team will have a practice session on March 10 before the series begins. All three matches are set to take place at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka on March 11, 13, and 15.

With Fakhar unavailable, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is expected to name a replacement soon. One of the leading contenders is Sahibzada Farhan, who recently enjoyed a remarkable T20 World Cup campaign. The talented opener finished as the tournament’s highest run-scorer, breaking Virat Kohli’s long-standing record with 383 runs in six innings at an impressive average of 76.60 and a strike rate exceeding 160. His performances have put him firmly in contention for a place in the ODI side as well.

Farhan’s domestic record also strengthens his case. In 72 List-A matches, he has scored 2,926 runs at an average of 41.80, showing the consistency needed for the 50-over format. If selected, he could get a valuable opportunity to cement his place in Pakistan’s ODI setup.

Also READ: Shahid Afridi blasts next potential captain of Pakistan after T20 World Cup 2026 exit amid leadership crisis debate

All eyes will be on Mumbai as defending champions India gear up to take on England in the second semifinal of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 at the iconic Wankhede Stadium on Thursday, March 5. With a coveted spot in the final at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium up for grabs, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Naturally, much of the attention has shifted to the pitch – the crucial 22-yard strip that could ultimately shape the outcome of this blockbuster knockout encounter between two cricketing powerhouses.

Wankhede pitch raising eyebrows

There is already a sense of curiosity surrounding the Wankhede surface. During India’s fielding session under the floodlights on Tuesday evening, the pitch remained covered, leaving players and observers guessing about what conditions might unfold on match day. According to reports, the strip currently appears greener than what is typically seen at Wankhede – even by first-class standards, let alone a T20 International.

The unusual grass cover is largely due to the rising temperatures Mumbai has experienced over the past couple of weeks. Groundstaff have deliberately retained more grass to prevent the surface from drying out too quickly or breaking up. The key question now is how much of that grass will be trimmed before Thursday’s game begins.

Interestingly, while India head coach Gautam Gambhir took a brief look at the pitch before it was covered, none of the Indian players inspected it closely. That might indicate the team is content to assess the conditions on match day itself, perhaps drawing lessons from the two matches already played on this very surface earlier in the tournament.

This red-soil wicket previously hosted England’s clash against West Indies on February 11 and the Italy versus Nepal match the following day. On both occasions, the pitch appeared to offer some assistance to spinners, particularly as the games progressed and the surface began to slow slightly.

What Wankhede surface usually offers?

Historically, the Wankhede Stadium has been synonymous with thrilling T20 contests. Its proximity to the Arabian Sea means that the sea breeze often becomes a factor, influencing both swing and dew conditions during evening matches.

The pitch typically offers a balanced contest between bat and ball. Batters enjoy the true bounce and pace that allows them to play their shots freely once they settle in. The relatively short square boundaries – measuring around 62 and 64 meters – also encourage aggressive stroke play, making high-scoring encounters quite common.

Fast bowlers often get some assistance early on, especially with the new ball, which can move both in the air and off the surface. As the match progresses, spinners tend to come into the picture during the middle overs, with the pitch occasionally offering a bit of grip and turn.

Statistics also reflect Wankhede’s reputation as a batting-friendly venue. The average first-innings total here stands at around 197. Interestingly, teams chasing have enjoyed slightly more success, winning five of the nine T20 Internationals played at the venue – suggesting that bowling first could offer a small tactical advantage.

Also READ: Arjun Tendulkar-Saaniya Chandhok Pre-Wedding – Yuvraj Singh, Irfan Pathan And Others Attend Glittering Mehendi-Sangeet Ceremony

India holds an emphatic record at Wankhede

Team India has enjoyed considerable success at Wankhede over the years. In seven T20Is played at the venue, the hosts have recorded five wins and just two defeats.

One of the most memorable games here came on February 2, 2025, when India posted a massive 247 for 9 against England. That match witnessed a breathtaking innings from Abhishek Sharma, who hammered 135 runs off just 54 balls – the highest individual score ever recorded at the ground.

England, in reply, crumbled under pressure and were bowled out for just 97, marking their lowest T20I total at Wankhede. Mohammed Shami starred with the ball, picking up 3 wickets for 25 runs as India secured a crushing 150-run victory. Notably, fast bowlers claimed 12 of the 19 wickets that fell in that match, highlighting the early help available for pacers at this venue.

Among Indian players, Virat Kohli holds the record for the most runs at Wankhede in T20Is, scoring 197 runs in just three matches. Meanwhile, Shami leads the wicket charts with five scalps from two appearances.

As India and England prepare for another high-voltage encounter at this historic venue, the pitch – and how it behaves under pressure – could well play a decisive role in determining who advances to the T20 World Cup 2026 final.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026 – Former CSK star names 3 England players as threat to India in the semi-final clash

In a setback for the Indian women’s cricket team ahead of the historic pink-ball Test against Australia, fast bowler Renuka Singh Thakur has been ruled out of the one-off match scheduled to begin on March 6 at the WACA Ground in Perth.

Why Renuka Singh will not play the only Test against Australia?

The BCCI’s decision to withdraw Renuka stems from a proactive workload management strategy rather than any fresh injury concern. The right-arm seamer featured in all three T20Is against Australia, claiming four wickets, and also played in the first and third ODIs, taking one wicket across those appearances.

“Team India pacer Renuka Thakur has been ruled out of the Only-Test at the WACA Ground in Perth, which is part of the ongoing multi-format series against Australia Women. To better manage her workload, Renuka has been advised rest and will be unavailable for selection for the pink-ball Test,” the BCCI stated in an official release.

The board emphasized that the BCCI Medical Team will be closely monitoring Renuka’s fitness progress in the lead-up to the all-important Women’s T20 World Cup 2026, which begins in June. This marks another instance of the BCCI carefully managing the pacer’s workload following her return from injury during the home ODI series against Australia last year.

Renuka Singh’s replacement for the Perth Test

Replacing Renuka is 22-year-old Kashvee Gautam, who receives her maiden Test call-up following a promising start to her limited-overs international career. The BCCI confirmed: “The Women’s Selection Committee has named Kashvee Gautam as her replacement. Kashvee was also part of the ODI squad in the ongoing multi-format series.” 

In the ODI series against Australia, Kashvee showcased her all-round potential, scoring 68 runs in three matches at an average of 22.66 with a strike rate of 85, while also taking three wickets at an economy rate of 6.75. She has played six ODIs for India overall, claiming three wickets, and boasts 19 wickets from 18 Women’s Premier League (WPL) matches.

Also READ: From Tammy Beaumont to Deepti Sharma: Here’s the list of maiden The Hundred Women 2026 auction

Beyond her white-ball credentials, Kashvee impressed in the recent domestic multi-day tournament, scoring an unbeaten 106 off 86 balls against an attack featuring Nandani Sharma, Kranti Gaud and N Shree Charani. She finished as the tournament’s tenth-highest run-getter while also picking up four wickets from three games.

India’s updated Test squad

Harmanpreet Kaur (c), Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma, Jemimah Rodrigues, Harleen Deol, Pratika Rawal, Richa Ghosh (wk), Uma Chetry (wk), Amanjot Kaur, Sneh Rana, Sayali Satghare, Deepti Sharma, Kranti Gaud, Kashvee Gautam, Vaishnavi Sharma.

Also READ: ICC Women’s ODI Rankings: Smriti Mandhana and Alana King claim the top spots

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.

The Hundred is stepping into a bold new era for its sixth edition, scheduled to run from July 21 to August 16, 2026. In a move that mirrors the global franchise landscape, the tournament has transitioned from a draft system to a high-stakes player auction. Set for March 11 at London’s iconic Piccadilly Lights, this inaugural women’s auction represents a massive leap forward, with salary caps doubling to £880,000 per side.

Franchises are now permitted to field four overseas players per match, a change that has intensified the hunt for world-class talent. Ahead of the bidding war, several marquee names have been released, featuring a mix of local legends and international icons. While heavyweights like Ellyse Perry (Birmingham Phoenix) and Smriti Mandhana (Manchester Super Giants) were secured via pre-auction signings, the remaining slots will be filled under the hammer.

Tammy Beaumont, Deepti Sharma, Sophie Devine and Beth Mooney headline the marquee list

The marquee set is a masterclass in T20 pedigree. Leading the international charge is India’s Deepti Sharma, whose off-spin mastery and clinical finishing were instrumental in London Spirit’s 2024 title win. She is joined by New Zealand’s powerhouse Sophie Devine and Australia’s batting anchor Beth Mooney, both of whom bring a wealth of experience from multiple World Cup triumphs. South Africa’s Nadine de Klerk and Australian spinner Sophie Molineux round out an overseas contingent that teams are expected to bid on aggressively.

On the domestic front, England’s stalwarts are equally prominent. Tammy Beaumont, the first woman to score a century in The Hundred, leads a group of homegrown heroes that includes the wizardry of leg-spinner Sarah Glenn and the reliable glovework of Amy Jones. The inclusion of Dani Gibson and the explosive young talent Davina Perrin highlights the tournament’s commitment to blending established stars with the next generation of English cricket.

The landscape of the competition has also shifted commercially. Four teams enter 2026 with new identities following IPL-linked investments: MI London (formerly Oval Invincibles), Manchester Super Giants (formerly Manchester Originals), Sunrisers Leeds (formerly Northern Superchargers), and the Delhi Capitals-owned Southern Brave.

Also READ: Top 5 wicket-keeper batters with most runs in women’s international cricket ft. Alyssa Healy

The Hundred Women’s 2026 Auction: The initial longlist

The auction longlist features 178 players, categorized into tiers that reflect their skill sets and market value. While the marquee names will grab the headlines, the Tier 1 categories are packed with match-winners capable of sparking bidding wars.

One of the major talking points of this auction is the representation of Asian talent. Despite 17 Indian players registering, only three, Deepti, Richa Ghosh, and Yastika Bhatia, made the initial cut for the primary list. Similarly, all eyes will be on Pakistan’s Fatima Sana and Sadia Iqbal, who are part of the longlist. Their potential selection is under high scrutiny, as no Pakistani player has featured in previous women’s seasons, especially with four franchises now under the umbrella of IPL owners.

Also READ: Alyysa Healy, Beth Mooney sizzle as Australia whitewash India in Women’s ODI series

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.

The first semi-final of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is set for a blockbuster showdown as the unbeaten South Africa takes on New Zealand at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Wednesday, March 4. With a spot in the March 8 final at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium on the line, both teams are gearing up for a high-stakes encounter under the Kolkata lights.

South Africa enters the contest as the tournament’s only unbeaten team, having won all seven matches played so far – four in the group stage and three in the Super 8 round. New Zealand, despite facing a defeat a defeat against England in the Super 8 stage, qualified courtesy of their superior net run rate over Pakistan.

Eden Gardens Pitch Report for SA vs NZ Semi-Final

The iconic Eden Gardens surface is expected to provide a well-balanced contest between bat and ball. Traditionally known for producing high-scoring encounters, the pitch usually offers consistent pace and bounce, allowing batters to play their shots with confidence once they settle in. Fast bowlers, however, won’t be completely out of the game. By hitting the right hard lengths, pacers can extract extra bounce from the surface, which could trouble batters early on. With a lightning-fast outfield and short square boundaries measuring around 62m and 64m, the venue tends to reward aggressive stroke play, meaning totals below 190 could be difficult to defend.

As the match progresses, the conditions could gradually start assisting spinners. The surface may offer a bit of grip and turn, allowing slower bowlers to play a crucial role in the middle overs. Pacers might also rely on variations such as cutters to make the ball hold up slightly on the pitch. Despite these factors, the track is not expected to deteriorate significantly during the game, ensuring fairly consistent conditions throughout.

Also READ: SA vs NZ, T20 World Cup 2026 1st semi-final Match Prediction – Who will win today’s game between South Africa and New Zealand?

Eden Gardens T20I Stats and Records

• Total matches played: 19
• Matches won batting first: 9
• Matches won bowling first: 10
• Average 1st innings score: 162
• Average 2nd innings score: 143
• Highest total recorded: 207/4 (20 Overs) by Scotland vs Italy
• Lowest total recorded: 70/10 (15.4 Overs) by Bangladesh vs New Zealand
• Highest score chased: 199/5 (19.2 Overs) by India vs West Indies
• Lowest score defended: 186/5 (20 Overs) by India vs West Indies

Also READ: Mohammad Amir makes a bold prediction ahead of India’s T20 World Cup 2026 semi-final clash with England

It is the city of joy, but only one team will be celebrating come tomorrow night. In a tournament of high drama, the undefeated South African juggernaut arrives at the iconic Eden Gardens looking to finally bury the chokers narrative once and for all. Standing in their way are the perennial overachievers of world cricket, New Zealand, a side that specializes in the cold-blooded execution of tournament favourites.

South Africa enter the semi-finals as a relentless, unbeaten juggernaut, having dominated the 2026 T20 World Cup with a flawless 7-0 record. Their journey began with commanding victories over Canada and the UAE, but it was a heart-stopping thriller against Afghanistan, won only after a rare double Super Over, that truly signaled their newfound mental fortitude. Carrying that momentum into the Super 8s, the Proteas topped Group 1 with clinical efficiency, most notably dismantling the defending champions, India, by 76 runs in Ahmedabad. With captain Aiden Markram leading the batting charge and the pace duo of Marco Jansen and Anrich Nortje terrorizing lineups, South Africa has shed their historical hesitation to become the team to beat.

In stark contrast, New Zealand’s path to Kolkata has been a great escape defined by turbulence and a late-tournament resurgence. Their campaign hit an early speed bump on February 14 when they suffered a heavy seven-wicket defeat at the hands of these very South Africans, forcing them to scramble through the rest of the group stage. The pressure only intensified in the Super 8s Group of Death, where a narrow loss to England left their survival hanging by a thread. They managed to stay afloat by crushing Sri Lanka, fueled by a vital lower-order stand between Mitchell Santner and Cole McConchie. Even then, their semi-final spot wasn’t secured until the final day of the round, when a favorable Net Run Rate allowed them to edge out Pakistan and keep their championship dreams alive.

SA vs NZ: Kolkata Weather Forecast

The weather in Kolkata for semi-final at Eden Gardens is expected to be ideal for cricket, with clear skies and zero probability of precipitation. Daytime temperatures will peak at a hot 33°C, cooling to a pleasant 24°C by the evening start. While the air will remain dry during the first innings, humidity is forecasted to climb significantly towards 69% as the night progresses. Crucially, a manageable dew point suggests that while dew factor may be present, it shouldn’t be as debilitating for bowlers as in previous matches, ensuring a fair contest under the lights.

SA vs NZ: Dew factor at the Narendra Modi Stadium

The dew factor at Eden Gardens is expected to be a match-defining variable for tomorrow’s semi-final. Research into recent tournament fixtures in Kolkata, including the India-West Indies clash, indicates that humidity levels will surge from roughly 50% at the toss to a staggering 80% by the second innings. This sharp rise will likely result in heavy late-evening dew, making the ball exceptionally slippery and difficult to grip for both spinners and death-over specialists. Consequently, the team batting second will enjoy a significant advantage as the outfield speeds up and the bowling side’s control over variations like yorkers and slower balls diminishes.

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SA vs NZ: Toss Prediction

In Kolkata, the toss winner is overwhelmingly likely to elect to bowl first, a decision driven by three tactical factors specific to the iconic Eden Gardens:

• The late-evening dew: While the early evening starts dry, the humidity in Kolkata is forecasted to spike from 50% at the toss to nearly 80% during the second innings. This wet ball syndrome will make it incredibly difficult for Santner and Maharaj to find their usual purchase. Captains Markram and Santner will both want to chase to ensure their bowlers operate with a dry ball while their batters benefit from a skidding, faster surface later in the night.
• True bounce and power-hitting: The Eden Gardens strip for this semi-final is a dry, black-soil wicket with negligible grass, designed to be a batter’s paradise. With an average tournament score of 182 at this venue, the pitch remains true throughout the game. However, the lightning-fast outfield and short square boundaries become even more difficult to defend once the moisture sets in, favouring the aggressive stroke-play of finishers like David Miller and Glenn Phillips in a chase.
• Chasing momentum at Eden: Historical data from the 2026 World Cup night fixtures suggests a clear advantage for the side batting second. As temperatures dip to a pleasant 24°C, the pitch loses its initial tackiness and allows the ball to come onto the bat perfectly. Given South Africa’s clinical chase against the Black Caps earlier in the tournament and New Zealand’s preference for controlled targets, neither side will want to set a total and risk the dew-induced disadvantage of a slippery ball during the high-stakes death overs.

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