The stage is set at the historic Eden Gardens in Kolkata for a high-stakes showdown. As the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 reaches its climax, South Africa and New Zealand collide in the 1st Semi-Final, with both sides eyeing a spot in the championship decider.

South Africa enters this clash as the team to beat. Riding an unbeaten streak through the tournament, Aiden Markram’s side has looked clinical in every department. Their top-order aggression, paired with a bowling attack that has mastered varying conditions, has made them a formidable force.

New Zealand, meanwhile, has navigated a tougher path to the knockouts. After a mixed Super 8 phase, the Black Caps have shown trademark resilience. Led by Mitchell Santner, their strength lies in their tactical flexibility and ability to perform under extreme pressure—a hallmark of their previous World Cup campaigns.

SA vs NZ, T20 World Cup 2026: Match details

• Date and Time: March 04; 7:00 pm IST / 1:30 pm GMT
• Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata

SA vs NZ, Head-to-Head Record in T20Is

Matches played: 19 | South Africa won: 12 | New Zealand won: 7 | No result: 0

Eden Gardens Pitch Report

The iconic Eden Gardens is primed for a classic T20 contest. Expect a surface that favors the batters, with true bounce and a lightning-fast outfield that will make every misfield costly. The pitch is expected to be dry and hard, offering the ball to come onto the bat nicely. It is historically a high-scoring ground, and recent matches in this World Cup suggest that anything below 190 could be vulnerable. Fast bowlers might extract some early swing, but as the shine fades, the surface becomes a batting paradise. Spinners will need to rely on variation and tight lines rather than big turn, as the ball will likely sit up for the hitters. While chasing has often been the preferred option in modern T20s due to potential evening dew, the high-pressure nature of a semi-final might see captains opting to bat first and put runs on the board.

Squads

South Africa: Aiden Markram (c), Quinton de Kock (wk), Ryan Rickelton, Dewald Brevis, David Miller, Tristan Stubbs, Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, Kagiso Rabada, Keshav Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi, George Linde, Anrich Nortje, Kwena Maphaka, Jason Smith

New Zealand: Tim Seifert (wk), Finn Allen, Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips, Daryl Mitchell, Mark Chapman, Mitchell Santner (c), Cole McConchie, Matt Henry, Ish Sodhi, Lockie Ferguson, James Neesham, Jacob Duffy, Kyle Jamieson, Devon Conway

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

SA vz NZ, T20 World Cup 2026: Today’s Match Prediction

Case 1:

• South Africa wins the toss and bats first
• South Africa’ powerplay score: 50-60
• South Africa’ total score: 180-190

Case 2:

• New Zealand wins the toss and bats first
• New Zealand’s powerplay score: 40-50
• New Zealand’s total score: 170-180

Match result: Team batting first to win the contest.

Also READ: ICC unveils match officials for T20 World Cup 2026 semi-finals

A thrilling contest will take shape as England A will be contending with Pakistan A in the third One-Day match at Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi, on 4^th March at 11:30 AM IST.

Get the best EN-A vs PK-A Dream11 prediction, fantasy cricket tips, probable playing XI, and match insights for the 3rd One-Day match of the England A vs Pakistan A in UAE 2026. Expert analysis and more.

EN-A vs PK-A Match Preview:

A commanding start has given England A a 1-0 lead in the five-match One-Day series against Pakistan A after a dominant nine-wicket victory at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi. Pakistan A managed only 152 in their innings, with Abdul Samad contributing 44, yet the total never looked sufficient. Calvin Harrison spearheaded England A’s disciplined bowling effort by claiming 3 for 37, which restricted the opposition and shifted early momentum toward the visitors.

In response, England A executed a clinical chase and reached 154 for 1 in just 24.2 overs. Asa Tribe remained unbeaten on 52, while James Rew provided steady support with 48 not out to seal the result comfortably. Consequently, England A established authority in the series through balanced performances in both departments.

However, the second unofficial ODI scheduled for 1 March did not proceed due to external circumstances. Therefore, the focus now shifts to the third encounter, where England A will aim to consolidate their advantage, whereas Pakistan A must regroup quickly and strive for a series-levelling victory.

Also Read: IPL 2026 postponed? BCCI issues official statement on schedule announcement delay

EN-A vs PK-A Head-to-Head Record:

EN-A vs PK-A Weather & Pitch Report:

Record of chasing teams:

EN-A vs PK-A Playing 11s (Predicted):

England A Playing 11:

1) Ben McKinney

2) Asa Tribe

3) James Rew (wk)

4) James Coles

5) James Wharton

6) Dan Mousley ©

7) Matthew Revis

8) Calvin Harrison

9) Matthew Potts

10) Eddie Jack

11) Sonny Baker

Pakistan A Playing 11:

1) Shamyl Hussain ©

2) Maaz Sadaqat

3) Sameer Minhas

4) Saad Khan

5) Abdul Samad

6) Saad Baig (wk)

7) Saad Masood

8) Arafat Minhas

9) Shahid Aziz

10) Ahmed Daniyal

11) Sufiyan Muqeem

Hot Picks for EN-A vs PK-A Dream11 Prediction and Fantasy Cricket Tips:

Captaincy Picks:

Top Picks:

Budget Picks:

EN-A vs PK-A England A vs Pakistan A in UAE 2026 Captain and Vice-captain Choices:

EN-A vs PK-A Dream11 Prediction Team 1:

• Keeper – James Rew
• Batters – Asa Tribe, Abdul Samad, Hassan Nawaz
• All-rounders – Dan Mousley, Maaz Sadaqat, James Coles ©, Saad Masood (vc)
• Bowlers – Matthew Potts, Arafat Minhas, Sufiyan Muqeem

EN-A vs PK-A Dream11 Prediction Team 2:

• Keeper – James Rew ©
• Batters – James Wharton, Asa Tribe, Hassan Nawaz (vc)
• All-rounders – Dan Mousley, Maaz Sadaqat, James Coles, Saad Masood
• Bowlers – Matthew Potts, Ahmed Daniyal, Sufiyan Muqeem

EN-A vs PK-A Dream11 Prediction Today Match 3rd One-Day England A vs Pakistan A in UAE 2026 Players to Avoid:

EN-A vs PK-A Dream11 Prediction Today Match 3rd One-Day England A vs Pakistan A in UAE 2026 Expert Advice:

EN-A vs PK-A Match Winner Prediction:

With a well-balanced lineup, England A will likely secure victory in this contest.

Former England captain Michael Vaughan issued a warning for Team India ahead of their semifinal match with England on March 5 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. The England cricket great opined that the English spinners will prove heavy on the Indian batters on a possible turning track at Wankhede.

Michael Vaughan takes a massive bet on the spinners of the England National Cricket Team. Adil Rashid, Liam Dawson, and Will Jacks can do their job with precision, Vaughan felt. He also praised the efforts of the England cricket team players displayed on the ground while fielding.

England has a better spin attack than India- Michael Vaughan

Taking a bold stance, the ex-cricketer, who is now working as a cricket expert and commentator, claimed that England can go through Team India to play the Final of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026.

“England has a better spin attack than India. [Varun] Chakravarthy has been got at. Dawson, Rashid, and Will Jacks have been the best trio in the tournament in terms of spin. England’s fielding has been absolutely exceptional. They look really alert”, the 51-year-old told the BBC on March 3.

“England’s running between the wickets has been exceptional. The small percentage of things you can control yourself, England seems to be doing very well. I just have a funny feeling England can get the job done in Mumbai”, he added.

They seem to have found a way of winning- Michael Vaughan

For example, Vaughan mentioned England’s match against New Zealand in the Super 8, a dead rubber, won by the Harry Brook-led team. He was impressed to see how the boys put in their efforts to even win an inconsequential match.

“They seem to have found a way of winning. The win against New Zealand, even though a dead rubber, to get over the line was a great effort”, Michael Vaughan mentioned.

England spinners mentioned by Michael Vaughan vs India in T20Is:

On the other front, Team India has multiple options as spinners in their squad. Varun Chakaravarthy and Axar Patel are likely to feature for the team in the semi-finals. Let’s take a look at the stats of Varun and Axar against the England cricket team:

Indian Spinners vs England in T20Is:

If we compare the above mentioned stats of the Indian spinners and the England spinners, then Varun and Axar together claimed a total of 23 wickets against England in the T20Is. For England, only Adil Rashid, who bagged 14 wickets against India, has a significant amount of experience of facing India in the format.

Read More: Secret Training Move! India changes strategy before T20 WC clash vs England

The cricketing summer in New Zealand is reaching a historic crescendo as the White Ferns prepare to host Zimbabwe Women in a landmark three-match One Day International (ODI) series. Starting on March 5, 2026, this series marks the first-ever bilateral ODI meeting between the two nations on Kiwi soil. While the atmosphere in Dunedin is electric with anticipation, the home side has faced a significant setback. Rising star Georgia Plimmer has been officially ruled out of the upcoming series due to a persistent shoulder injury, prompting a swift change in the squad dynamics.

Injury blow for Georgia Plimmer ahead of the Zimbabwe ODI series

Plimmer, a vital cog in New Zealand’s top-order machinery, sustained a shoulder injury while throwing during a training session in the recently concluded T20I series. The injury was severe enough to sideline her for the final two T20Is, and after further medical assessment, she has been deemed unfit for the 50-over format. This is a tough break for the 22-year-old, who recently reached the milestone of 1,000 international runs during the first T20I in Hamilton.

In her absence, the national selectors have turned to Bella James. James, who was initially brought in as injury cover during the T20Is, will now remain with the squad as the official replacement for the ODI series. With nearly 100 List-A matches under her belt and a career highlighted by two domestic centuries, James brings a wealth of experience to the table.

White Ferns Head Coach Ben Sawyer expressed his disappointment for Plimmer but voiced full confidence in James:

“Georgia is a key player for us at the top of the order and the energy she brings into the group is something we really value. Bella is a natural fit; her experience is extremely valuable, and she’ll fit straight back into the side seamlessly.”

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

New Zealand vs Zimbabwe 2026: ODI schedule and squad

This series is not just a friendly contest; it is a critical fixture in the ICC Women’s Championship cycle, serving as a qualification pathway for the 2029 World Cup. Zimbabwe, led by Mary-Anne Musonda, is making its debut in this championship, making the stakes incredibly high for both teams. All three matches are scheduled to take place at the picturesque University Oval in Dunedin, a venue known for its balanced pitches and brisk coastal winds.

New Zealand’s updated ODI squad

Melie Kerr (c), Izzy Gaze (wk), Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Bree Illing, Polly Inglis, Bella James, Jess Kerr, Emma McLeod, Rosemary Mair, Nensi Patel, Molly Penfold, and Izzy Sharp.

Match schedule (Dunedin)

Match	Date	Time (Local)
1st ODI	Thursday, March 5	11:00 AM
2nd ODI	Sunday, March 8	11:00 AM
3rd ODI	Wednesday, March 11	11:00 AM

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.

Pakistan’s turbulent campaign at the T20 World Cup 2026 has triggered another wave of debate back home, with former captain Shahid Afridi openly questioning the leadership credentials of star all-rounder. As speculation grows over a possible change in captaincy following the team’s underwhelming run, Afridi’s blunt remarks have added fuel to an already intense conversation around Pakistan cricket’s direction.

Pakistan’s below-average campaign in T20 World Cup 2026

Pakistan were knocked out of the 2026 T20 World Cup at the Super Eight stage, failing to secure a semi-final berth in what turned out to be a campaign of missed chances. Although they signed off with a narrow five-run victory over Sri Lanka in their final Super 8 fixture, it wasn’t enough to keep their hopes alive.

Led by captain Salman Ali Agha, Pakistan’s journey was marked by inconsistency. A damaging group-stage defeat to India dented their momentum early, and their inability to close out crucial moments in the Super Eights ultimately proved costly. When the points were tallied, Pakistan found themselves eliminated due to an inferior net run rate compared to New Zealand.

The narrow margins reflected a broader issue — flashes of brilliance but little sustained control. For a team rich in talent, the early exit has prompted serious introspection within cricketing circles in Pakistan.

Shahid Afridi questions Pakistan’s next potential captaincy candidate

In the aftermath of the elimination, criticism has been widespread. While Agha has faced scrutiny for his leadership during the tournament, reports suggesting that Shadab Khan could be considered as the next T20 captain sparked a strong reaction from Afridi.Speaking on Samaa TV, Afridi did not hold back while criticizing Shadab.

“Looking at his performance, I wouldn’t even keep him in the team, let alone give him the captaincy,” the former all-rounder said while reacting to speculation about Shadab replacing Salman.

Afridi went further, suggesting that repeated backing from the team management has not translated into results.

“The head coach is giving Shadab chance after chance. That’s why I said Shadab can become the next Pakistan captain. But looking at his recent performances, he doesn’t even deserve a place in the playing XI,” he added.

Shadab’s numbers from the tournament make for uncomfortable reading. Featuring in seven matches, he managed just five wickets and scored 118 runs — figures that fall short of expectations from a player considered one of Pakistan’s premier all-rounders. His struggles with both bat and ball became a talking point, particularly in high-pressure games where senior players are expected to rise.

Afridi’s remarks reflect a larger frustration among fans who believe leadership should be earned through consistent performances rather than reputation.

Also READ: ICC unveils match officials for T20 World Cup 2026 semi-finals

What’s next for Pakistan?

With their T20 World Cup campaign over, Pakistan now shift focus to rebuilding and recalibrating. The team is entering a period of transition, both competitively and structurally.

The immediate attention turns to the 50-over format as preparations begin for the 2027 ODI World Cup. Pakistan are scheduled to arrive in Dhaka on March 9 for a three-match ODI series, with all games set to be day-night fixtures at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium. The series offers an opportunity to reset combinations and evaluate emerging players.

Later in the year, Pakistan will tour England for a marquee three-match Test series starting August 19 at Headingley — a challenging assignment that will test the team’s resilience in red-ball cricket.

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

The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 has reached its business end, and all eyes are now on the high-voltage semi-final between India and England at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. With a place in the final on the line, the contest promises to be a gripping battle between two modern-day powerhouses of white-ball cricket.

India have looked clinical throughout the tournament, blending explosive batting with disciplined bowling. England, on the other hand, have rediscovered their rhythm at the right time, peaking during the Super 8 stage and entering the knockout clash with confidence. Given the history between these two sides in global tournaments, fans are bracing for another unforgettable chapter.

The Wankhede pitch, known for its pace and bounce early on and dew under lights, could add an extra layer of intrigue to this already mouth-watering encounter.

Former CSK star picks three England players as major threats for India

Former India cricketer and ex-Chennai Super Kings batter Subramaniam Badrinath has identified three England players who, in his view, could pose serious problems for India in the semi-final.

The first name on his list was Harry Brook, who has been in sublime touch in the tournament. Brook’s ability to accelerate against both pace and spin makes him a dangerous middle-order enforcer. His fearless strokeplay and composure under pressure could test India’s bowling attack, especially in the middle overs.

Badrinath then turned his focus to England’s pace spearhead, Jofra Archer. Known for his sharp pace and steep bounce, Archer could exploit the lively conditions at Wankhede. With the new ball, he has the capability to strike early and unsettle India’s top order. If he finds rhythm, his short-ball tactics combined with pinpoint yorkers could prove decisive.

The third threat, according to Badrinath, is leg-spinner Adil Rashid. Rashid’s slower pace through the air and clever variations have troubled batters worldwide. On a surface that may assist spinners as the game progresses, his control and guile could force Indian batters into risky shots. As Badrinath highlighted, using footwork effectively against Rashid will be key for India’s middle order.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Badrinath said, “I feel three England players can be a threat to India. One is Harry Brook, he is batting really well. In the bowling, two players. One is Jofra Archer. There will be some extra bounce at the Wankhede, and one more is Adil Rashid. He is bowling very slow and that will be a challenge for Indian batters, they will have to use their feet.”

Also READ: Sunil Gavaskar identifies two players as India’s game-changers for T20 World Cup 2026 semi-final against England

Fans expect a thriller at Wankhede

With match-winners on both sides, anticipation is soaring among fans. The Wankhede Stadium has witnessed countless historic moments, and supporters are hoping this semi-final adds another classic to the list.

Indian fans are banking on their star-studded lineup to rise to the occasion, while England supporters believe their team’s fearless brand of cricket can silence the home crowd. Social media has been abuzz with predictions, tactical debates, and throwbacks to past India-England clashes in ICC events.

Also WATCH: Axar Patel playfully mocks Sanju Samson after his match-winning heroics against West Indies in T20 World Cup 2026

As the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 reaches its fever pitch, the narrative surrounding the Indian cricket team has shifted from triumph to intense scrutiny. Following a record-breaking victory over the West Indies at Eden Gardens, India secured their spot in a high-stakes semi-final against England, scheduled for March 5 at the Wankhede Stadium. However, the celebrations were quickly met with a cold splash of reality from former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir. Known for his unfiltered takes, Amir has once again stirred the pot, claiming that despite the ‘Samson storm,’ the Men in Blue are far from a complete unit and are destined to fall short of the final.

From doubt to defiance: Mohammad Amir’s tracking narrative against India

This isn’t the first time Amir has bet against the Indian side during this tournament. Before the Super 8 stage reached its climax, Amir had confidently predicted that India would not even make the semi-finals. He pointed toward a lack of cohesion and a heavy reliance on individual brilliance rather than collective effort.

When India faced the West Indies in a ‘do-or-die’ encounter, the stakes couldn’t have been higher. The Caribbean side posted a formidable 195/4, fueled by a late-inning surge from Jason Holder and Rovman Powell. While the world watched in awe as Sanju Samson played the innings of a lifetime—an unbeaten 97 off 50 balls, Amir remained unimpressed by the broader team dynamics. India’s chase was statistically historic, marking the highest score by an Indian in a successful T20 World Cup chase, surpassing Virat Kohli’s iconic knocks. Yet, for Amir, the victory was a mask covering deeper systemic issues within the squad.

Also READ: Fact check: Did actress Urvashi Rautela cheer for Team India at Eden Gardens in LSG jersey during T20 World Cup match against West Indies?

Amir sparks debate with fresh prediction before India’s T20 World Cup 2026 semi-final against England

Speaking shortly after India’s qualification was confirmed, Amir doubled down on his skepticism, sparking a heated debate across social media. His critique focused on two primary pillars: a ‘collapsing’ batting order and a one-man bowling attack.

“India complete cricket nahi khel rha. India final nahi kehelega (India are not playing complete cricket. India will not play the final),” Amir stated bluntly.

While he was quick to acknowledge the brilliance of Samson, calling the knock special, he argued that India’s habit of losing early wickets, evidenced by the shaky 41/2 start against the Windies—would be their undoing against a clinical England side. “Just look at their batting, in almost every match, they keep suffering collapses,” he noted.

Amir’s most stinging observation, however, was reserved for the bowling department. He claimed that apart from the ever-reliable Jasprit Bumrah, who returned figures of 2/36 in the last game, the rest of the attack is struggling for form. With England’s batting lineup currently firing on all cylinders, Amir believes the discrepancy between Bumrah and his peers will be the deciding factor in Mumbai. As the Wankhede prepares for a repeat of the 2024 semi-final, the cricketing world is left wondering.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: Glenn McGrath explains why Jasprit Bumrah will sizzle in India’s semi-final clash against England

Auqib Nabi’s rise in Indian domestic cricket has been nothing short of extraordinary. The star pacer delivered a historic performance in the 2025–26 Ranji Trophy, emerging as the leading wicket-taker and the chief architect behind Jammu & Kashmir’s maiden title triumph. Over the last two seasons, Nabi has established himself as arguably the most prolific fast bowler in the Indian domestic circuit, claiming a staggering 104 wickets in just 18 matches.

Auqib Nabi’s splendid show in the Ranji Trophy

In the latest Ranji campaign alone, Nabi was virtually unstoppable. He picked up seven five-wicket hauls in the tournament — eight in the overall first-class season — equalling the record for the most five-wicket hauls by a pacer in a single season in India. His impact was felt most strongly in the knockout stages. Nabi grabbed five wickets in the quarter-final, repeated the feat in the semi-final, and then produced a match-defining spell in the final that swung the contest decisively in Jammu & Kashmir’s favour.

Unsurprisingly, he was named Player of the Series for his dominant performances. With such consistency and match-winning displays, many former cricketers and experts have openly demanded his inclusion in the Indian national squad.

Devajit Saikia responds to selection demands for Nabi

Amid the growing clamour for Nabi’s India call-up, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia addressed the matter in an interview with The Times of India. Saikia acknowledged the pacer’s remarkable performances and confirmed that his efforts have not gone unnoticed.

“He has played very well. His contribution has been major to the success of the team. He took five wickets in the quarter-final, five wickets in the semi-final, and left nothing in the final. His spell changed the final. So, everybody is taking note of it,” Saikia said.

The BCCI secretary also underlined the board’s commitment to ensuring that talent from every corner of the country gets due recognition. Saikia’s remarks indicate that while immediate selection is not guaranteed, Nabi firmly remains on the radar of national selectors.

“The BCCI has set the stage right so that no proper talent goes unnoticed. When selectors are present, their only focus is on players’ performances, which they are tracking closely. That is why so many players from small and lesser-known places are getting opportunities to represent the country. Regarding Nabi, he has come from Baramulla. Who brought him to this position? The selectors in J&K. The BCCI selectors did not bring him. But when he plays domestic cricket and represents his state team, the BCCI selectors keep an eye on domestic matches,” he added.

Also READ: Indian cricket fraternity reacts as Jammu & Kashmir scripts history with maiden Ranji Trophy victory by defeating star-studded Karnataka in final

Jammu & Kashmir’s historic Ranji triumph

The 2025–26 season of the Ranji Trophy will forever be remembered in Jammu & Kashmir’s cricketing history. On 28 February 2026, the team clinched their maiden Ranji Trophy title in their first-ever appearance in a final.

Led by veteran Paras Dogra, Jammu & Kashmir defeated eight-time champions Karnataka at the D. R. Bendre Cricket Stadium in Hubballi, ending a 67-year wait since their tournament debut in the 1959–60 season. The victory has been hailed as a transformative moment for cricket in the region.

The achievement resonated beyond the boundary ropes. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah announced a ₹2 crore cash reward for the team, celebrating their landmark success.

For Nabi, the title was not just a personal milestone but a symbol of a region’s cricketing resurgence. Whether his Ranji heroics soon translate into an India cap remains to be seen, but one thing is certain — his name is now firmly etched in the national conversation.

Also READ: Sourav Ganguly calls on BCCI to pick Auqib Nabi for India’s tour of England

In the latest shake-up of the international women’s cricket scene, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has unveiled its updated rankings, highlighting a significant shift in dominance. The Tuesday update reflects the high-octane performances from the ongoing multi-format series between Australia and India, along with crucial ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 matches. Two names have surged to the pinnacle of their respective categories, marking a new chapter for both Indian and Australian cricket as they solidify their status among the sport’s elite.

Smriti Mandhana and Alana King crowned No.1 in ICC Women’s ODI standings

India’s star opener Smriti Mandhana has reclaimed the No. 1 spot in the ICC Women’s ODI Batting Rankings. With a current rating of 790, Mandhana’s steady form—highlighted by scores of 58 and 31 in the past week—was enough to edge past South Africa’s Laura Wolvaardt. Mandhana’s return to the summit is a testament to her consistency at the top of the order, even as the Proteas captain looks to reclaim her position in upcoming fixtures against New Zealand later this March.

On the bowling front, Australia’s leg-spin sensation Alana King has achieved a career milestone by reaching the top of the charts. King (775 points) effectively ended Sophie Ecclestone’s nearly four-year reign as the world’s premier ODI bowler. Her ascent was fueled by a dominant week where she spearheaded the Australian attack, taking seven wickets at an average of 16.71. Her standout performance of 4/33 in the third ODI against India was instrumental in securing a massive 185-run victory for the hosts, further cementing her status as a big-match player.

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

Shifting tides and other rising stars in the rankings

Beyond the headline-makers, the charts saw substantial movement following the conclusion of various international series. The legendary Alyssa Healy bid a fairy-tale farewell to the ODI format, smashing a breathtaking 158 off 98 balls in her final match against India. The Australian captain signed off in fourth place (744) in the batting rankings, leaving a void that younger talents like Georgia Voll are already looking to fill. Voll herself saw a massive 23-spot jump to 34th after a stellar series average of 54.

• Australian dominance: Australia now boasts five bowlers in the top eight, including Ashleigh Gardner (3rd), Annabel Sutherland (5th), Megan Schutt (7th), and Kim Garth (8th).
• All-Rounder excellence: Gardner remains the undisputed queen of all-rounders with a rating of 516, sitting nearly 100 points clear of West Indies‘ Hayley Matthews.
• Indian resilience: Despite a series loss, Indian captain Harmanpreet Kaur re-entered the top 10 for batters, climbing four places to 9th following three consecutive scores of 25+.

Notable gains were also observed in the T20I rankings, where New Zealand’s Amelia Kerr broke into the top 10 (8th) following a strong showing against Zimbabwe. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s Fatima Sana continues her rise in the all-rounder category, moving up five places to 15th after showcasing her power-hitting prowess. As the 2026 season progresses, these rankings set a competitive stage for the upcoming international calendar.

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 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 has reached its business end, and all eyes are now on the blockbuster semi-final between India and England. With a place in the final at stake, the two cricketing heavyweights are set to renew their fierce rivalry in what promises to be a high-voltage encounter. India have displayed remarkable consistency throughout the tournament, while England have relied on their aggressive batting template to storm into the knockouts.

As anticipation builds, former India captain and batting legend Sunil Gavaskar has weighed in on what could decide the outcome of this crucial contest. Gavaskar believes that two players in particular will hold the key if India are to overcome England and book their spot in the final.

Sunil Gavaskar names two key stars for India in the high-profile game

Gavaskar has pinpointed spearhead pacer Jasprit Bumrah as India’s most vital weapon against England’s explosive top order. According to the former opener, Bumrah must be unleashed early in the powerplay to dismantle England’s batting core.

“I do believe that he should be bowling at least two overs in the powerplay because as a new-ball bowler, if he can get those early wickets — Jos Buttler, Phil Salt and Harry Brook — he will have pretty much broken the back of the England batting,” Gavaskar said.

He further explained that delaying Bumrah’s introduction allows England’s openers time to settle.

“If Bumrah comes in to bowl the fifth over, when four overs have already been bowled and the batters have faced 8-10 deliveries each, they are already set. Wouldn’t it be better for India if Bumrah were to bowl to them first and get them out?” he added.

The spotlight will firmly be on Bumrah when he runs in with the new ball against the likes of Jos Buttler, Phil Salt and Harry Brook — three batters capable of turning the game within a few overs.

Apart from Bumrah, Gavaskar also backed young left-hander Tilak Varma as a crucial figure in India’s middle order. The veteran praised Tilak’s cricketing intelligence and flexibility in the batting lineup.

“I have always thought of Tilak Varma as a very smart cricketer, someone who assesses the situation well and plays accordingly. Down the order at No.5 or 6, he really understands the need of the hour,” Gavaskar remarked.

Referring to Tilak’s recent performance against West Indies, he highlighted how the youngster absorbed pressure and supported Sanju Samson at a crucial juncture. Gavaskar noted that Tilak’s ability to bat at multiple positions — from No.3 to No.6 — gives India tactical flexibility, a valuable asset in knockout matches.

Also WATCH: Axar Patel playfully mocks Sanju Samson after his match-winning heroics against West Indies in T20 World Cup 2026

Fans expect a cracker of a contest at Wankhede

With the semi-final set to unfold at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, expectations are sky-high. The venue is known for producing high-scoring thrillers, and supporters are bracing for another edge-of-the-seat encounter.

The India-England rivalry in T20 cricket has delivered several unforgettable moments, and this clash carries the added weight of a World Cup semi-final. Social media is already buzzing with debates around team combinations, powerplay strategies and middle-order match-ups.

If Bumrah strikes early and Tilak anchors the middle overs, India could well tilt the balance in their favour. But against a fearless England side, nothing can be taken for granted.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: Glenn McGrath explains why Jasprit Bumrah will sizzle in India’s semi-final clash against England