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Fans go wild as Sahibzada Farhan scripts history with stunning century in PAK vs SL Super 8 clash at T20 World Cup 2026
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Fans go wild as Sahibzada Farhan scripts history with stunning century in PAK vs SL Super 8 clash at T20 World Cup 2026



n a high-stakes Super 8 encounter at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, Pakistan’s dynamic opener Sahibzada Farhan delivered a performance that will be remembered for years. With Pakistan fighting to keep their semifinal hopes alive, Farhan rose to the occasion with a breathtaking century against Sri Lanka, sending fans into a frenzy both inside the stadium and across social media.

The right-hander smashed 100 off just 60 deliveries, peppering the boundary with nine fours and five towering sixes. His strike rate, soaring above 166, reflected not just aggression but calculated dominance. It was not merely another hundred — it was a knock that rewrote record books and reaffirmed Pakistan’s belief in crunch moments.

Surpassing legends and setting new milestones for Sahibzada Farhan

Farhan’s remarkable innings saw him surpass Virat Kohli’s long-standing record of 319 runs in a single T20 World Cup edition, set in 2014. With 383 runs in seven matches at an astonishing average of 76.60 and a strike rate of 160.25, Farhan has emerged as the standout batter of the tournament.

This was his second century of the competition, making him the first player in T20 World Cup history to score two hundreds in the same edition. He now shares the overall record of most centuries in T20 World Cup history with West Indies icon Chris Gayle, though Gayle’s tons came in different tournaments.

Among Australians and Pakistan greats, Farhan now stands alongside Matthew Hayden, Kohli, and Babar Azam in recording four 50-plus scores in a single edition — a mark of consistency at the highest level. Notably, only Babar has scored more T20I centuries for Pakistan, with three to his name.

A monumental opening stand

Farhan’s brilliance was perfectly complemented by Fakhar Zaman, who unleashed 84 runs from just 42 balls. The duo stitched together a record 176-run partnership for the first wicket — now the highest opening stand in T20 World Cup history.

In doing so, they eclipsed the 175-run stand between Tim Seifert and Finn Allen earlier in the tournament. For nearly 15 overs, Sri Lanka’s bowlers were left searching for answers as the Pakistani openers dictated terms with fearless strokeplay.

Sri Lanka’s fightback and the semifinal equation

Despite the massive opening stand, Sri Lanka clawed their way back into the contest. Dilshan Madushanka impressed with figures of 3 for 33, while skipper Dasun Shanaka and pacer Dushmantha Chameera chipped in with crucial breakthroughs. Pakistan eventually finished at 212 for 8 — a strong total, though slightly short of what once looked possible.

With qualification scenarios hanging in the balance, Pakistan must restrict Sri Lanka to 147 or fewer to edge past New Zealand on net run rate and book a semifinal berth. The equation adds another layer of drama to what has already been an unforgettable evening.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: Here’s why Kusal Mendis and Babar Azam are not playing today’s PAK vs SL Super 8 match

Here’s how fans reacted:

Also READ: Shahid Afridi names next Pakistan captain amid Salman Agha’s struggle in T20 World Cup 2026





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West Indies great reveals the missing piece in Shai Hope’s XI for India clash at Eden Gardens
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West Indies great reveals the missing piece in Shai Hope’s XI for India clash at Eden Gardens



The T20 World Cup 2026 has boiled down to a high-stakes ‘virtual quarter-final’ at the iconic Eden Gardens, where the West Indies face a resurgent Indian side. Following a bruising nine-wicket defeat to South Africa in Ahmedabad, the Men in Maroon find themselves in a ‘win-or-go-home’ scenario to secure their semi-final berth.

Amidst the tension, legendary former captain Carl Hooper has voiced his concerns regarding the team’s recent tactical blunders, specifically pointing to a glaring omission in the bowling department. As the Shai Hope-led squad prepares to face India’s explosive top order, Hooper believes that returning to a proven formula is the only way to dismantle the hosts’ momentum. With the destiny of the two-time champions in their own hands, the veteran’s advice highlights a desperate need for tactical ‘boldness’ to counter India’s clinical stroke-makers on a historic Kolkata turf.

Former West Indies captain Carl Hooper has pulled no punches in his assessment of the team’s selection, explicitly naming left-arm spinner Akeal Hosein as the player who must be reinstated for the clash against India.

Despite Hosein’s status as a top-tier T20I bowler, he was surprisingly sidelined in the previous game against South Africa to accommodate off-spinner Roston Chase, a move Hooper labeled as a failed ‘match-up’ experiment. Hooper argues that Hosein’s accuracy and unique ability to strike during the Powerplay are far more valuable than chasing specific batter-bowler statistics, especially against an Indian top order that thrives on pace.

“I don’t understand why Akeal, who has also been the No.1-ranked T20I bowler, wasn’t included against South Africa. The idea to play Chase was to have an off-spinner to counter Quinton de Kock
and the No.3 (Ryan Rickelton). But I really hate these match-ups. In Akeal, you have a bowler who’s accurate, can bowl in the Powerplay with success. So, why would you not have him in the team? All they need to do is trust their skills, focus on the basics and be bold.” Carl Hooper was quoted as saying by The Telegraph India.

Also WATCH: ENG vs NZ: Flying Glenn Phillips’ stunning grab removes Jacob Bethell during T20 World Cup Super 8 showdown

Blueprint for the West Indies to iron out the flaws of India in Kolkata

Beyond the inclusion of Hosein, Hooper provided a comprehensive blueprint for the West Indies to “iron out the flaws” that were exposed in Ahmedabad. He noted that while India possesses world-class batters, they no longer dominate spin with the same historical invincibility of legends like Navjot Singh Sidhu, giving spinners like Gudakesh Motie and Hosein a window to “mix it up” with flight and flatter deliveries.

Furthermore, noting the mediocre performance of the seam department on red soil, Hooper suggested that the grass-tinged Eden pitch would be the perfect setting to unleash pacers early in the innings to rattle India’s openers.

“In our times, even a Navjot Singh Sidhu could take down a rival spin attack. But that’s no longer the case with the current Indian team. So, they (WI spinners) need to mix it up with a fair bit of flight and firing it in flat. Hitting a six or a four and following it up with a single is the way to go. Taking 15 in one over and then only four in the next doesn’t help. But yeah, the batters shouldn’t go into a shell or shift from their natural game against the Indian attack.” Carl Hooper concluded.

Also READ: Faf du Plessis picks his 5 best batting performances from T20 World Cup 2026



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Shahid Afridi names next Pakistan captain amid Salman Agha’s struggle in T20 World Cup 2026
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Shahid Afridi names next Pakistan captain amid Salman Agha’s struggle in T20 World Cup 2026



Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha finds himself at the center of intense scrutiny as the Men in Green battle to keep their ICC T20 World Cup 2026 dreams alive. With inconsistent performances and mounting criticism over leadership decisions, Agha’s tenure has entered a decisive phase.

Pakistan are set to face Sri Lanka in their final Super Eight clash, and the equation is simple — win and march into the semi-finals. The opportunity, however, arrived in dramatic fashion. New Zealand’s recent defeat to England reopened the door for Pakistan. Had the Black Caps managed to overcome England, Pakistan’s journey would have ended prematurely.

England have already sealed their semi-final berth from the group, leaving one slot up for grabs. Pakistan now have a golden, albeit unexpected, chance to script a turnaround. Yet, the pressure is immense. Despite winning 30 out of 49 T20Is under Agha’s leadership since his appointment in March 2025, Pakistan have struggled in high-stakes encounters — including multiple defeats to India in the Asia Cup 2025 and another setback in this World Cup edition. The clash against Sri Lanka is not just about qualification; it could also define the immediate future of Pakistan’s leadership.

Shahid Afridi backs star all-rounder as future leader of Pakistan

Amid the uncertainty, former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has publicly endorsed Shadab Khan as the ideal candidate to lead the T20I side moving forward. Speaking on a private television channel, Afridi hinted that a leadership change could be on the cards after the conclusion of the tournament.

Afridi suggested that much would depend on whether head coach Mike Hesson continues in his role. If the coaching setup remains intact, Afridi believes Shadab is the frontrunner for captaincy.

According to the former all-rounder, Pakistan currently lack multiple strong options for the leadership role, which strengthens Shadab’s case. However, Afridi was quick to add that captaincy cannot be separated from performance. He stressed that Shadab must rediscover consistency with the ball and contribute regularly if he is to command authority within the squad.

“If the same coach [Mike Hesson] remains, then in my opinion, Shadab Khan will be appointed as captain. Shadab is not a bad choice for the captaincy because we do not have many other options at the moment. If Shadab had maintained consistency in his bowling, the way he was performing earlier, it would have strengthened his case,” said Afridi as quoted by Geonews.

Afridi’s comments reflect a broader sentiment within Pakistan cricket circles — leadership must inspire not just tactically but through personal performance. While Shadab has previously led the side in patches and brings experience, his recent form has drawn mixed reviews. The coming weeks could therefore mark a transitional phase for Pakistan cricket, depending on how events unfold.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: What if the India vs West Indies Super 8 clash at Eden Gardens gets washed out due to rain in Kolkata?

All eyes on Pallekele as Pakistan brace for Sri Lanka challenge

The high-stakes encounter will unfold at the iconic Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, where emotions are expected to run high. Interestingly, Sri Lanka have already been eliminated from the semi-final race. But that hardly reduces the threat they pose. As co-hosts, the Islanders will be eager to finish their campaign on a strong note and play spoilers. A fearless performance from the Islanders could make Pakistan’s task significantly tougher.

For Pakistan, this is more than just a must-win game — it is a test of character. Having received a lifeline courtesy of New Zealand’s loss, the Men in Green now have destiny in their own hands. The equation is straightforward, but execution under pressure has often been their Achilles’ heel in recent tournaments.

Also WATCH: T20 World Cup 2026 – Harry Brook’s six leaves dent on big screen during ENG vs NZ Super 8 clash



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Sunil Gavaskar excludes India from his list of T20 World Cup 2026 trophy favourites
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Sunil Gavaskar excludes India from his list of T20 World Cup 2026 trophy favourites



As the T20 World Cup 2026 hurtles toward the knockout stages, the cricketing world has been left buzzing by a bold declaration from one of India‘s most revered icons. Despite the ‘Men in Blue’ showing immense resilience and firepower throughout the tournament, batting legend Sunil Gavaskar has looked beyond his home nation when identifying the ultimate favourites for the trophy.

In a candid assessment with India Today, the 76-year-old maestro pointed toward two other powerhouses that he believes possess a more ‘complete’ tactical edge. His reasoning doesn’t stem from a lack of faith in India, but rather an admiration for the sheer versatility and depth displayed by two sides that have already punched their tickets to the semi-finals. For Gavaskar, the ability to adapt to varying subcontinental conditions is the true benchmark of a champion.

Sunil Gavaskar sidesteps India in his T20 World Cup 2026 favourites prediction

Sunil Gavaskar has officially tipped England and South Africa as the frontrunners to lift the T20 World Cup, citing their balanced rosters as the primary reason for his choice. During a recent discussion on India Today, the former captain broke down why Harry Brook‘s side and the clinical Proteas have the edge over the rest of the field, including a formidable Indian lineup. Gavaskar was particularly impressed by England’s ability to navigate high-pressure situations, even dismissing their recent batting stutter against Pakistan as a minor hiccup caused by modern aggression.

“For me, the two favorites are South Africa and England. England might have had a close victory, but that again is down to the modern tendency to try and finish the game off with a six. England, because they’ve got the bowlers who can bowl spin as well as quick. They’ve got a very good bowling attack and the batting also, they’ve got a fair bit of depth over there. So I think England and South Africa are the two teams to watch out for.” Gavaskar said.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: Pakistan’s semi-final qualification scenario after England’s win over New Zealand

The path of dominance for both teams in T20 World Cup 2026

The statistics certainly back Gavaskar’s bold claims, as both sides have enjoyed a near-flawless run through the tournament’s most difficult phases. South Africa, in particular, has been a force of nature, entering the Super Eights after a perfect group stage and securing massive wins over both India (by 76 runs) and the West Indies (by 9 wickets). Their ability to handle the pressure of two Super Overs against Afghanistan earlier in the tournament proved their mental fortitude. Meanwhile, England have shown remarkable depth, recovering from an early group-stage loss to the West Indies to dominate the Super Eights with wins over Sri Lanka and Pakistan.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: What if the India vs West Indies Super 8 clash at Eden Gardens gets washed out due to rain in Kolkata?



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Not Virat Kohli! England skipper Harry Brook picks the greatest white-ball player ever
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Not Virat Kohli! England skipper Harry Brook picks the greatest white-ball player ever



As England marches into the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup 2026, a fascinating sub-plot has emerged involving the team’s leadership and its most decorated veteran. While the ‘Three Lions” have looked unstoppable in their Super 8 campaign, their superstar is currently enduring a rare and painful slump in form. Despite a string of low scores that have ignited debates across the global media, captain Harry Brook has refused to entertain any talk of dropping the veteran.

In a move that defines his captaincy, Brook used the post-match platform following England’s thriller against New Zealand to issue a defiant statement of support. By looking past modern icons like Virat Kohli, Brook has placed Buttler on a pedestal above all others in the history of the shorter formats.

Not Virat Kohli: Harry Brook names the best white-ball player to ever play the game

In a bold assertion that has reverberated through the cricketing world, Brook has officially labeled Jos Buttler as the ‘best white-ball player to ever play the game.’ The endorsement comes at a time when Buttler’s statistics in the ongoing tournament are unusually grim; the veteran has managed just 62 runs in seven matches at a dismal average of 8.85 and a strike rate of 106. However, Brook dismissed the mounting criticism surrounding Buttler’s spot in the XI, urging fans and pundits to look at the larger picture of his illustrious 150-game international career rather than a temporary ‘rut.’

“He’s played 150 games for England and people need to take a little step back. He’s probably the best white-ball player to ever play the game. He’s in a rut but it’s exciting to know what he could produce in the next few games. We know his class, and a big performance is just around the corner.” Brook said.

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

T20 World Cup 2026 semi-final bound: England flourish despite a legend’s struggle

While Buttler searches for his rhythm, the rest of the England squad has stepped up to ensure their semi-final berth was secured with a dramatic four-wicket win over New Zealand on Friday. The chase of 160 looked in jeopardy when the Kiwis reduced England to 117/6 in the 17th over, but late-inning fireworks from Will Jacks and Rehan Ahmed saw them cross the finish line with three balls to spare.

This victory has not only confirmed England’s dominance in Group 2 but has also left New Zealand’s fate hanging by a thread, depending entirely on the outcome of the Pakistan vs Sri Lanka clash in Pallekele. With England already through, the pressure is now on Pakistan, who must defeat Sri Lanka by a massive margin of 64 runs or chase their target in 13.1 overs to leapfrog the Kiwis on Net Run Rate and snatch the final semi-final spot.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026 [EXPLAINED]: Why Matt Henry is returning home after the England vs New Zealand match?



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



Jammu and Kashmir scripted an immortal chapter in Indian domestic cricket by clinching their maiden Ranji Trophy title on February 28, 2026, defeating eight-time champions Karnataka at the Hubballi Ground.

Entering the final as spirited underdogs, the Paras Dogra-led side delivered a masterclass in tactical discipline and mental fortitude to secure the championship via a massive first-innings lead. The victory marks the pinnacle of a 67-year journey, transforming the region’s cricketing landscape forever as they outplayed a star-studded Karnataka unit featuring multiple Test stars.

From Shubham Pundir’s foundational century to Auqib Nabi’s lethal pace and Qamran Iqbal’s final-day defiance, it was a collective triumph of a team that refused to be intimidated by legacy. As the match concluded in a draw with J&K leading by 633 runs, the jubilant scenes in the dressing room signaled a new era for the side.

Shubham Pundir’s grit and Jammu and Kashmir’s middle-order resilience post a mammoth 584

Jammu and Kashmir’s maiden title was built on a monumental first-innings total of 584, an effort that saw them bat Karnataka out of the game for over seven grueling sessions. After opting to bat on a true Hubballi surface, J&K lost early wickets, but Shubham Pundir anchored the innings with a sublime 121 off 247 balls, showcasing exemplary patience against the pace of Prasidh Krishna.

The beauty of the innings lay in its collective contributions, as five other batters crossed the fifty-run mark to dismantle Karnataka’s bowling rhythm. Yawer Hassan (88) provided a brisk start, while captain Paras Dogra (70) and Kanhaiya Wadhawan (70) consolidated the middle order with professional composure.

Even when Krishna triggered a late collapse to finish with 5/98, Sahil Lotra (72) and Abdul Samad (61) ensured the tail wagged significantly to push the score past the 550-mark. This massive total not only exhausted the Karnataka fielders but also created immense scoreboard pressure, setting the stage for J&K’s bowlers to attack with a defensive cushion. The sheer volume of runs scored over 173 overs sent a clear message that J&K was no longer content with being just participants but were in Hubballi to dictate terms.

Also WATCH: KL Rahul surprises with a rare bowling spell during Ranji Trophy Final 2025-26; video goes viral

Auqib Nabi’s fiery five-for dismantles Karnataka’s star-studded lineup

Karnataka’s response to the giant total was met with a hurricane named Auqib Nabi, whose sensational spell of 5/54 effectively decided the fate of the Ranji Trophy. Nabi, the season’s leading wicket-taker, produced a masterclass in swing and seam bowling to remove the heavyweights of Karnataka’s batting order within the first two sessions.

He first stunned the home crowd by trapping KL Rahul for just 13 and followed it up by dismissing Karun Nair for a golden duck with a peach of a delivery that rattled the off-stump. While veteran Mayank Agarwal fought a magnificent lone battle with a fighting 160, he found virtually no support as Nabi returned to clean up the tail and secure a decisive 291-run first-innings lead.

Supported by Yudhvir Singh and Abid Mushtaq, the J&K attack maintained relentless pressure, bowling out the eight-time champions for a mere 293 in 93.3 overs. The sight of Karnataka’s frontline batters struggling to cope with Nabi’s pace served as a symbolic passing of the guard in domestic dominance. By securing the lead, J&K had mathematically placed one hand on the trophy, leaving Karnataka with the impossible task of forcing an outright victory on a deteriorating final-day track.

Ranji Trophy Final: Qamran Iqbal and Sahil Lotra’s twin tons seal a historic draw and maiden title

With a massive lead in hand, Jammu and Kashmir utilized the final two days to professionally bat Karnataka out of the contest, eventually declaring their second innings at 342/4. Despite an early wobble at 12/2 against Prasidh Krishna, Qamran Iqbal played the innings of his life, remaining unbeaten on 160 to ensure there were no late hiccups.

He was brilliantly supported by Sahil Lotra, who reached his maiden first-class century (101*) in a chanceless 197-run partnership that saw the lead swell to a staggering 633 runs. The frustration in the Karnataka camp was evident as captain Devdutt Padikkal was forced to use part-time bowlers like KL Rahul and Karun Nair to get through the overs on a flat Day 5 pitch.

The declaration finally came at 2:10 PM, leading to a formal handshake between the two captains and sparking wild celebrations among the J&K players and traveling supporters. This final act of dominance ensured that J&K finished the game without losing a single session on the final day, a fitting end to a campaign where they lost only one match. As the trophy was hoisted by Paras Dogra, it marked the end of a 67-year wait and the beginning of a legendary legacy for Jammu and Kashmir cricket.

Here’s how fans reacted:

Also WATCH: Karnataka pacer Prasidh Krishna’s unplayable ball sends J&K skipper Paras Dogra packing on Day 4





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Kayla Reyneke earns maiden ODI call-up as South Africa announce squad for New Zealand tour
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Kayla Reyneke earns maiden ODI call-up as South Africa announce squad for New Zealand tour



South Africa Women have handed a maiden ODI call-up to promising all-rounder Kayla Reyneke for their upcoming white-ball tour of New Zealand next month. The 20-year-old’s inclusion headlines a 15-member squad that will compete in five T20Is and three ODIs during a nearly three-week tour, with the 50-over matches forming part of the ICC Women’s Championship.

Captain Laura Wolvaardt will lead the side, which blends youth and experience as the Proteas aim to build momentum in challenging overseas conditions.

Kayla Reyneke’s rapid rise rewarded

Reyneke’s selection comes on the back of a memorable T20I debut against Pakistan earlier this month. The offspin-bowling allrounder made an immediate impact, returning impressive figures of 2 for 13 from her four overs in the opening match of the series. Not content with that, she also played a fearless unbeaten knock of 29 off just 16 deliveries to guide South Africa home in a tense chase.

Her match-winning performance earned her the Player of the Match award and marked her as one of the brightest emerging talents in the setup. The selectors have now shown faith in her ability to transition into the 50-over format, where her dual skills could prove vital in New Zealand’s seam-friendly conditions.

Also WATCH: Georgia Voll receives standing ovation at Bellerive Oval; Australia seals the ODI series against India

Key absences and important returns

While Reyneke celebrates a career milestone, the squad will travel without senior all-rounder Marizanne Kapp. Kapp fell ill during the third T20I against Pakistan and has since been sidelined. She will continue her rehabilitation and is expected to begin her return-to-play protocol ahead of South Africa’s future tours once her recovery is complete.

However, there is encouraging news for the Proteas with the return of experienced campaigners Ayabonga Khaka, Masabata Klaas and Dané van Niekerk to the ODI side after missing the Pakistan series. Their inclusion bolsters both the bowling attack and the leadership depth within the squad.

Van Niekerk’s comeback, in particular, adds valuable experience to the middle order and offers another spin option, while Khaka and Klaas strengthen the pace unit that will be tested on New Zealand’s lively pitches.

The five-match T20I series will be played as double-headers alongside the men’s fixtures between March 15 and 25. Matches are scheduled in Mount Maunganui, Hamilton, Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch, promising strong crowds and competitive cricket. Following the T20Is, the focus will shift to the three ODIs on March 29 in Christchurch, and April 1 and 4 in Wellington. With ICC Women’s Championship points at stake, the 50-over leg of the tour carries significant importance for World Cup qualification standings.

South Africa Women squad for New Zealand series: Laura Wolvaardt (c), Tazmin Brits, Nadine de Klerk, Annerie Dercksen, Ayanda Hlubi, Sinalo Jafta, Ayabonga Khaka, Masabata Klaas, Suné Luus, Karabo Meso, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Kayla Reyneke, Tumi Sekhukhune, Chloé Tryon and Dané van Niekerk.

Also WATCH: Well-settled Pratika Rawal’s brain fade moment results in her run-out during AUS-W vs IND-W 2nd ODI

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



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KL Rahul surprises with a rare bowling spell during Ranji Trophy Final 2025-26; video goes viral
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KL Rahul surprises with a rare bowling spell during Ranji Trophy Final 2025-26; video goes viral



The 2025-26 Ranji Trophy final at Hubballi’s KSCA Ground has delivered a moment that cricket fans won’t soon forget. On Saturday, with the historic clash between Jammu & Kashmir (J&K) and Karnataka reaching its fever pitch, the crowd witnessed an anomaly: star batter and wicket-keeper KL Rahul handed the ball to roll his arm over. As J&K stood on the precipice of their maiden title, Karnataka’s desperation led to a viral moment that has set social media ablaze.

KL Rahul turns bowler during Ranji Trophy Final 2025-26 in Hubballi

With the game slipping away from the eight-time champions, Karnataka captain Devdutt Padikkal made the unconventional call to introduce Rahul into the attack during the 81st over of J&K’s second innings. The sight of Rahul, usually found behind the stumps or at slip, removing his cap to bowl right-arm slow off-spin was met with a roar from the Hubballi spectators.

The 83rd over, in particular, became the highlight of the day. Facing the well-set Sahil Lotra and centurion Qamran Iqbal, Rahul conceded 12 runs in a sequence that showcased both his experimental loopy deliveries and the batters’ dominance.

On the first ball of the over (82.1), Rahul tossed up a gentle full toss on middle and off. Lotra didn’t miss the invitation, clearing his front leg to smoke the ball over wide long-on for a towering six. The very next ball (82.2) provided a rare chance; a back-of-a-length delivery induced a thick outside edge from Lotra, but the opportunity was grassed by Mayank Agarwal at first slip.

The over continued with Iqbal showing his class. At 82.4, Iqbal stayed back to a shortish delivery and cracked it past mid-off for a boundary. By the end of his two-over spell, Rahul’s figures stood at 2-0-15-0, providing a brief, entertaining interlude in an otherwise gruelling final.

Here’s the video:

Also WATCH: Karnataka pacer Prasidh Krishna’s unplayable ball sends J&K skipper Paras Dogra packing on Day 4

Jammu & Kashmir charge towards scripting history in the Ranji Trophy Final

While the viral clip of Rahul’s bowling captured the internet’s attention, the real story remained the clinical dominance of Jammu & Kashmir. Entering the final as first-time participants, the Paras Dogra-led side has bullied the domestic giants in their own backyard.

J&K’s first-innings total of 584, headlined by Shubham Pundir’s 121, set a mountain too high for Karnataka to climb. Despite a fighting 160 from Agarwal, Karnataka was bundled out for 293, thanks to a sensational five-wicket haul by the season’s leading wicket-taker, Auqib Nabi (5/54).

By the morning of Day 5, J&K had extended their lead to a monumental 576 runs. Iqbal anchored the second innings with a magnificent while 114 (214b), Lotra supported him with a gritty 63 (143b). Their partnership of over 100 runs effectively slammed the door on any hopes of a Karnataka miracle.

With the scoreboard reading 285/4 in the second innings and a combined lead exceeding 575, the perennial underdogs from the North are just hours away from etching their names onto the prestigious Ranji Trophy for the very first time.

Also WATCH: Auqib Nabi removes KL Rahul with peach of a delivery in Ranji Trophy final





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T20 World Cup 2026 [WATCH]: Harry Brook’s six leaves dent on big screen during ENG vs NZ Super 8 clash
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T20 World Cup 2026 [WATCH]: Harry Brook’s six leaves dent on big screen during ENG vs NZ Super 8 clash



England held their nerve in a gripping Super 8 encounter of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, defeating New Zealand in a last-over finish at the R. Premadasa Stadium on February 27. While the contest itself was packed with tension and momentum swings, it was England captain Harry Brook who produced the night’s most unforgettable moment — a towering six that struck the giant stadium screen and left a visible dent.

Chasing a competitive target, England were under early pressure after losing both openers cheaply. What followed was a counter-attacking response led by Brook, whose fearless approach not only revived the innings but also stunned everyone inside the stadium.

Harry Brook’s six leaves a dent on the big screen

The dramatic moment unfolded in the third over of England’s chase. Facing New Zealand pacer Matt Henry, Brook shuffled across the crease to a full delivery aimed at the stumps. With audacious confidence, he scooped the ball high over square leg.

The ball kept traveling — higher and further than expected — before crashing directly into the giant screen above the stands. Replays soon confirmed a dent on the surface, prompting gasps from the crowd and stunned reactions from players on both sides.

It was a rare sight even in modern T20 cricket, where sixes are common but structural damage is not. The stroke also signaled Brook’s intent. England had slipped to 2/2 early in the chase, and the skipper’s calculated aggression shifted the pressure back onto the Black Caps. Brook eventually scored a brisk 26 off 24 deliveries, forging a vital 48-run partnership with Jacob Bethell to stabilize the innings.

Here’s the video:

Also READ: IPL 2026: Matt Henry blind ranks 10 iconic New Zealand players who’ve worn the CSK yellow jersey

England clinch thrilling four-wicket victory

Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, England stayed within touching distance of the target. Contributions from the middle order, including calm finishing touches from the lower order, ensured the chase did not spiral out of control.

New Zealand had earlier built their total around solid starts from Tim Seifert and Finn Allen, before Glenn Phillips anchored the innings with a fluent knock. England’s bowlers, led by disciplined spells in the middle overs, managed to restrict the scoring just when the Black Caps threatened to break free.

In the chase, New Zealand spinner Rachin Ravindra applied pressure with crucial breakthroughs, keeping the contest alive until the final stages. However, England held their composure in the 20th over, crossing the line with four wickets in hand and three balls to spare.

Also READ: Fans erupt as Will Jacks’ all-round heroics help England pip New Zealand to keep Pakistan alive in T20 World Cup 2026





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T20 World Cup 2026 [EXPLAINED]: Why Matt Henry is returning home after the England vs New Zealand match?
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T20 World Cup 2026 [EXPLAINED]: Why Matt Henry is returning home after the England vs New Zealand match?



The New Zealand camp has been hit with a bittersweet development as their premier strike bowler, Matt Henry, prepares to leave the squad during the most intense phase of the T20 World Cup 2026.

Having established himself as a cornerstone of the Black Caps’ attack with 6 wickets in 5 innings, Henry’s departure follows a high-stakes Super Eight encounter against England in Colombo. While the exit of the team’s joint-highest wicket-taker is a significant tactical blow, the decision has received the full blessing of the coaching staff and his teammates.

New Zealand Matt Henry departs the T20 World Cup 2026 at a critical juncture

New Zealand Cricket officially confirmed that Henry has been granted paternity leave to return home for the birth of his and his wife Holly’s second child. The fast bowler, who was recently re-signed by CSK for INR 2 Crore in the 2026 auction, a massive jump from his original INR 30 Lakh price tag back in 2015, will fly out immediately following the England clash. Head coach Rob Walter emphasized that family remains the priority, even as the team fights for a spot in the final four.

“Firstly, we’re all very excited for Matt and Holly on the arrival of their second child,” Walter said in a statement. “It’s a very significant moment for their family and we’re wishing them all the best. There’s a lot of water to go under the bridge but we’re hopeful that the stars align for the team and for Matt and that we’ll see him back competing in the final phases of the competition.” Walter was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.

Also READ: IPL 2026: Matt Henry blind ranks 10 iconic New Zealand players who’ve worn the CSK yellow jersey

T20 World Cup 2026 semifinal qualification chaos for New Zealand after defeat against England

The timing of Henry’s exit adds a layer of immense tension to New Zealand’s campaign, as they finished their Super Eight stage with a 4-wicket loss to England on Friday. While Henry managed to pick up the wicket of Phil Salt in his final over, the defeat means the Black Caps must now wait on the result of the Pakistan vs Sri Lanka match to see if they progress. If Pakistan fails to overtake New Zealand’s healthy Net Run Rate (+1.390), the Kiwis will advance, potentially allowing Henry to rejoin the squad in India for the semi-finals.

“We’re hopeful that the stars align. Matt has been a key player for us, and having him back for the final phases would be a huge boost.” Walter concluded.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: Pakistan’s semi-final qualification scenario after England’s win over New Zealand



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