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Fans erupt as India overpower Zimbabwe to keep T20 World Cup 2026 semifinal hopes alive despite Brian Bennett’s unbeaten 97
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Fans erupt as India overpower Zimbabwe to keep T20 World Cup 2026 semifinal hopes alive despite Brian Bennett’s unbeaten 97



In a must-win T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 clash at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, India surged back into semifinal contention with a dominant 72-run victory over Zimbabwe on February 26, 2026. After a stinging defeat to South Africa, India’s batting unit found its rhythm to post a record-shattering 256/4, the highest total in T20 World Cup history. Zimbabwe’s chase, despite a valiant lone-warrior effort from Brian Bennett, never truly threatened the target as India’s bowlers executed their plans with clinical precision.

This victory not only provides a massive boost to India’s confidence but also significantly repairs their Net Run Rate ahead of the ‘quarterfinal’ showdown with the West Indies. The result officially keeps India’s dream of a home-soil title alive while ending Zimbabwe’s spirited run in the tournament.

Abhishek Sharma and Hardik Pandya power India to 256/4 against Zimbabwe

India’s innings was a relentless display of power-hitting that saw them rewrite the record books by posting the second-highest total in all T20 World Cup history. The decision to bring Sanju Samson back into the XI to open paid immediate dividends, as he struck two sixes in the opening over to set a frantic pace before falling for 24. Abhishek Sharma then took center stage, silencing his critics with a blistering 30-ball 55 that featured four massive sixes and laid a solid platform at 80/1 in the Powerplay.

The momentum never dipped, as Ishan Kishan (38) and Suryakumar Yadav (33) manipulated the fields with ease, but the true devastation occurred in the final five overs. Hardik Pandya smashed an unbeaten 50 off just 23 deliveries, reaching his milestone with a final-ball six, while Tilak Varma provided an equally explosive 44* off 16 balls. Together, they plundered 80 runs in the death overs, leaving the Zimbabwean bowlers including Richard Ngarava and Blessing Muzarabani looking helpless against the onslaught. This total of 256 effectively batted Zimbabwe out of the game before the second innings began, setting a mountainous required run rate of 12.85.

Also READ: Team India shatter multiple batting records vs Zimbabwe in T20 World Cup 2026 clash

Brian Bennett’s heroic 97 in vain as Arshdeep Singh leads bowling masterclass

Zimbabwe’s pursuit of the mammoth target was defined by the extraordinary solo performance of Bennett, who nearly pulled off a miracle century in a losing cause. Bennett was sensational, smashing 97 off 59 balls and taking a particular liking to Shivam Dube, whom he hit for 26 runs in a single over. However, he found no support from the other end as Arshdeep Singh delivered a masterclass in T20 bowling, finishing with figures of 3/24.

Arshdeep’s double-strike in the 17th over to remove Sikandar Raza and Ryan Burl effectively ended any mathematical hope Zimbabwe had of a comeback. Axar Patel and Varun Chakaravarthy provided the necessary middle-order squeeze, ensuring the run rate remained out of reach despite Bennett’s aggressive stroke-play.

Jasprit Bumrah also played his part, stifling the openers early on with a series of toe-crushing yorkers that limited Zimbabwe to 44/0 in the Powerplay. Zimbabwe finished their 20 overs at 184/6, a spirited effort but one that fell 72 runs short of India’s record total. The win ensures that India’s final Super 8 match against the West Indies will be a winner-takes-all encounter for a spot in the semifinals.

Here’s how fans reacted:

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: Sanju Samson or Ishan Kishan? Suryakumar Yadav reveals India’s wicketkeeper vs Zimbabwe





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IPL 2026: RCB ownership race heats up as US billionaire enters $1.8 billion bidding war
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IPL 2026: RCB ownership race heats up as US billionaire enters $1.8 billion bidding war



The race to acquire a majority stake in Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) has officially transformed into a global bidding war, making it the most coveted asset ahead of the IPL 2026 season.

Following their historic IPL 2025 title win, RCB’s market appeal has surged to unprecedented heights, drawing intense interest from international sports moguls and local industrial titans alike. As the March 31, 2026, deadline for the sale approaches, the franchise is no longer just a cricket team, it is a billion-dollar crown jewel that has reset the financial benchmarks of the league.

IPL 2026: The $1.8 Billion valuation and the global bidding war for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)

The financial stakes for RCB have reached unprecedented levels, with current reports from Reuters and Bloomberg valuing the franchise at approximately $1.8 billion. This mammoth figure is a direct result of the team’s recent championship success and its unrivaled commercial pull, anchored by the enduring brand power of Virat Kohli.

Diageo, which controls the team through its Indian arm United Spirits, has officially moved the franchise into an ‘active sale’ phase, seeking to divest what it now labels a ‘non-core’ asset. This move has triggered a fierce bidding war, as the IPL’s overall business valuation has reportedly surged to $18.5 billion, placing it among the most lucrative sports leagues in the world.

IPL 2026: US billionaire steps into $1.8 billion RCB ownership race

As per NDTV Sports report, Adding a fresh and formidable dimension to the race, US billionaire David Blitzer has officially entered the fray. Blitzer, the co-founder of Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment and an executive at Blackstone Group, is conducting serious due diligence on RCB as he seeks to diversify his already massive sports portfolio, which includes the NBA’s Philadelphia 76ers and the NHL’s New Jersey Devils. His entry through his family office, BOLT Ventures, signifies a major shift toward American institutional capital in the IPL. He faces a direct challenge from fellow American Avram Glazer, the Manchester United co-chairman who has reportedly submitted a leading bid through Lancer Capital.

Also READ: IPL 2026: Are KGF and Kantara creators Hombale Films planning to buy RCB? Here’s what we know so far

Old players already in the race: Indian tycoons vs Manchester United & global moguls

While American moguls dominate the international headlines, the quest for RCB remains a matter of pride for India’s top industrialist. Adar Poonawalla, CEO of the Serum Institute of India, has been a vocal frontrunner, publicly declaring his intent to keep the franchise under Indian leadership. He is joined by other local heavyweights like Ranjan Pai of the Manipal Group and interest from the JSW and Adani Groups.

However, the strongest international threat comes from Manchester United co-owner Avram Glazer, who is reportedly willing to pay a premium to expand his sporting empire into the Indian subcontinent. With the mid-March deadline for final bids fast approaching, the battle has become a symbol of the IPL’s global prestige, pitting the “sports empire” builders of the West against the ‘home-grown’ industrial titans of India.

Also READ: IPL 2026: RCB up for sale? Here’s the full list of potential bidders looking to acquire Royal Challengers Bengaluru



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West Indies umpire Steve Bucknor breaks silence on the infamous Sachin Tendulkar dismissal
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West Indies umpire Steve Bucknor breaks silence on the infamous Sachin Tendulkar dismissal



More than 20 years after one of cricket’s most controversial umpiring decisions, former West Indies official Steve Bucknor has admitted he made a mistake. In a recent interview, the 79-year-old said that giving Sachin Tendulkar out during the 2003–04 Brisbane Test was the wrong decision, a call that had sparked huge debate at the time.

The controversial call from Steve Bucknor to dismiss Sachin Tendulkar

The incident took place during the first Test of the 2003–04 Border-Gavaskar Trophy at the Gabba in Brisbane. Tendulkar was facing Australian fast bowler Jason Gillespie when he decided to leave a delivery that came back sharply and hit him high on the pads.

On a bouncy Brisbane pitch, the ball looked like it was going over the stumps. However, after a loud appeal from the Australian players, umpire Bucknor gave Tendulkar out LBW. The decision surprised everyone, as it seemed the ball was too high to hit the stumps. Tendulkar had to walk back without scoring, dismissed for a three-ball duck.

The decision stunned the commentators and fans watching around the world. Former England captain Tony Greig, who was in the commentary box, called it a dreadful decision on air. Years later, Bucknor himself has agreed that it was indeed the wrong call, admitting that he made a mistake that day.

Also WATCH: Arjun Tendulkar makes headlines after dismissing Yashasvi Jaiswal’s brother in DY Patil T20 Cup 2026

Buckor opens up on his contentious decision

While speaking to the West Indies Cricket Umpires’ Association on February 24, 2026, Bucknor openly talked about the controversial decision that continues to follow him even after so many years. The former umpire admitted that the call to give Sachin Tendulkar out LBW in Brisbane is something he has never been able to completely forget.

Bucknor said that the incident still comes up in conversations almost every day. Fans, journalists, and cricket lovers often remind him of that moment and question why he made that decision. He acknowledged that it was indeed an error and accepted responsibility for it.

“Giving Sachin Tendulkar out leg before wicket… it’s a matter of knowing that it was a mistake. Until this day, every day, people talk about it. Why did I give him out? Was he out and so on? But then in life, mistakes happen. I have accepted that it was a mistake, and life goes on,” said Bucknor.

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



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SA vs WI: Jason Holder and Romario Shepherd rewrite record books vs South Africa in T20 World Cup Super 8 match
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SA vs WI: Jason Holder and Romario Shepherd rewrite record books vs South Africa in T20 World Cup Super 8 match



The cricketing world descended upon Ahmedabad on Thursday, for a high-stakes T20 World Cup Super 8 encounter between the West Indies and South Africa. In what was the 47th match of the tournament, the Group 1 showdown at the Narendra Modi Stadium delivered a masterclass in resilience. While the Proteas’ pace attack initially threatened to blow the Caribbean side away, a historic lower-order fightback ensured the West Indies posted a competitive total in this crucial night fixture.

Jason Holder and Romario Shepherd script historic stand against South Africa

The highlight of the first innings was an extraordinary, record-breaking partnership between Jason Holder and Romario Shepherd. When Matthew Forde fell in the 11th over, the West Indies were reeling at a disastrous 83/7. With the top order back in the dugout, South Africa looked poised to wrap up the innings well under the 120-run mark.

However, Holder and Shepherd had other plans. The duo stitched together a monumental 89-run partnership for the eighth wicket, the highest ever recorded in the history of T20 Internationals. Their clinical assault eclipsed the previous record of 80 runs held by Scotland’s PL Mommsen and SM Sharif against the Netherlands in 2015.

Partners Runs Team Opposition Match Date
JO Holder & R Shepherd 89 West Indies South Africa Feb 26, 2026
PL Mommsen & SM Sharif 80 Scotland Netherlands Jul 11, 2015
R Sharma & Amjad Mahboob 75 Singapore Cambodia May 4, 2023
C Madande & WP Masakadza 75 Zimbabwe Bangladesh May 3, 2024

Shepherd was the aggressor, finishing unbeaten on 52 off 37 balls, decorated with three boundaries and four towering sixes. Holder provided the stability and veteran experience, contributing a vital 49 off 31 balls before being tragically run out on the second-to-last ball of the innings.

Also WATCH: Keshav Maharaj plucks a screamer to remove Shimron Hetmyer during T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 encounter

Aiden Markram and Lungi Ngidi masterclass propels South Africa to dominant victory over West Indies 

South Africa moved to the brink of a T20 World Cup 2026 semifinal berth on February 26, 2026, after crushing the West Indies by nine wickets in a dominant Super 8 display at the Narendra Modi Stadium. Chasing a target of 177, the Proteas made a mockery of the pursuit by reaching the mark in just 16.1 overs, fueled by a relentless opening assault.

Captain Aiden Markram delivered a definitive ‘Player of the Match’ performance, hammering an unbeaten 82 off just 46 balls, while Quinton de Kock set the tone early with a blistering 47 off 24 deliveries. The foundation for this victory was laid by the South African bowlers, specifically Lungi Ngidi and Kagiso Rabada, who tore through the West Indian top order to leave them reeling at 52/4 by the end of the Powerplay.

Ngidi was the chief destroyer with figures of 3/30, while Rabada’s 2/22 ensured heavyweights like Shai Hope and Shimron Hetmyer were back in the dugout early. Even though a lower-order recovery allowed the West Indies to post a competitive 176/8, the psychological advantage was swiftly extinguished as Markram and Ryan Rickelton (45*) shared an unbeaten 82-run stand to seal the win with 23 balls to spare.

This clinical victory ensures South Africa remains the only unbeaten team in the tournament and provides a massive boost to India’s qualification hopes by severely denting the West Indies’ Net Run Rate. For the Caribbean side, the loss is a significant reality check, leaving them in a high-pressure situation for their final group matches. The Proteas now sit comfortably at the top of Group 1 with four points, essentially securing their spot among the world’s top four teams.
Also WATCH: Maheesh Theekshana redeems earlier lapse with a breathtaking catch to remove Finn Allen during SL vs NZ Super 8 clash



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SA vs WI: Fans go berserk as Aiden Markram takes South Africa into the semifinals of T20 World Cup 2026
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SA vs WI: Fans go berserk as Aiden Markram takes South Africa into the semifinals of T20 World Cup 2026



South Africa delivered a statement performance at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Thursday, crushing West Indies by nine wickets in a lopsided Super 8 encounter to become the first team to qualify for the T20 World Cup 2026 semifinals.

Clinical chase: Aiden Markram and Quinton de Kock set the platform for South Africa

Chasing 177, South Africa’s opening pair of Quinton de Kock and Aiden Markram dismantled the West Indies bowling attack with a breathtaking 95-run partnership inside the first eight overs. De Kock was particularly aggressive, racing to 47 off just 24 deliveries before falling to Roston Chase, caught by Jason Holder at mid-wicket .

Markram, however, continued the onslaught, finding an able partner in Ryan Rickelton, who smashed an unbeaten 45 off 28 balls. The pair added 82 runs in just 49 deliveries, with Markram bringing up his fifty off 30 balls before accelerating further. The Proteas skipper finished with 82 not out off 46 deliveries, his innings studded with six fours and four sixes at a strike rate of 178.26 .

South Africa reached 177/1 in just 16.1 overs, their second-highest successful chase in T20 World Cup history and the fastest by any team against West Indies in the tournament.

West Indies innings: Jason Holder’s heroics propel Caribbean total

Earlier, South Africa captain Makram won the toss and elected to field first and the decision was bang on as the Proteas pace quartet ripped through the top order. Kagiso Rabada struck early, removing Hope for 16 off 12 deliveries, while Lungi Ngidi claimed the prized wickets of Brandon King (21 off 11) and Roston Chase (2 off 2).

At 60/5 in the 10th over, West Indies were staring at a below-par total. However, Jason Holder produced a magnificent counter-attacking knock, scoring 49 off just 31 deliveries with three fours and four sixes. He found support from Romario Shepherd, who smashed an unbeaten 52 off 37 balls, as the pair added 89 runs for the eighth wicket.

Shepherd’s innings was particularly brutal, featuring 3 fours and 4 sixes at a strike rate of 140.54. Their partnership propelled West Indies to a respectable 176/8 from their 20 overs.

Lungi Ngidi was the pick of the South African bowlers, finishing with impressive figures of 3/30 in his four overs, claiming the crucial wickets of King, Powell and Chase. Kagiso Rabada supported with 2/22, while Corbin Bosch claimed 2/31, including the wicket of Sherfane Rutherford.

Player of the Match

Aiden Markram’s all-round performance earned him the Player of the Match award. The South African captain also took a sharp catch to remove Hetmyer and led his team with tactical acumen before delivering with the bat.

Also WATCH: Keshav Maharaj plucks a screamer to remove Shimron Hetmyer during T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 encounter

Here’s how fans reacted:

Also READ: IND vs ZIM, T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 – TNCA takes a unique step to curb dew in Chennai





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Explained: The ₹5.7 crore dispute between Shikhar Dhawan and his ex-wife
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Explained: The ₹5.7 crore dispute between Shikhar Dhawan and his ex-wife



Just days after beginning a new chapter in his personal life with his marriage to Sophie Shine, former Indian cricketer Shikhar Dhawan secured a significant legal victory as the Delhi Family Court directed his ex-wife Aesha Mukherji to return approximately ₹5.7 crore received under a disputed property settlement. The Patiala House Court’s ruling, delivered on February 25, declared that orders passed by an Australian Family Court in their matrimonial dispute are not binding in India, marking a decisive turn in the long-running cross-border legal battle.

Shikhar Dhawan’s case: Australian orders set aside by the family court in India

The family court, presided over by Judge Devender Kumar Garg, ruled that the property settlement agreement reached in Australia was “null and void” after accepting Dhawan’s contention that the documents were executed under threat, coercion, and fraud. The court held that the Australian court’s orders concerning property division cannot be enforced against Dhawan in India, as they are “alien to Indian legal principles” under the Hindu Marriage Act.

In a significant financial direction, the court ordered Mukherji to return the sale proceeds of two properties located in Australia – AU $812,397.50 received as interim settlement from a property in Berwick, and AU $82,000 retained from the sale of another property in Clyde North. The court also directed that interest at 9 per cent per annum be paid on these amounts from the date of filing of the suit until full payment is made .

Additionally, the court restrained Mukherji from enforcing the Australian court’s anti-suit injunction and related orders against Dhawan.

Coercion and threats to damage Dhawan’s reputation

Dhawan had approached the Delhi court challenging the Australian proceedings, arguing that he never voluntarily submitted to the foreign court’s jurisdiction. In his submissions, the cricketer alleged that shortly after their marriage in October 2012, Mukherji began threatening to circulate fabricated and defamatory material to damage his reputation and cricket career if he did not meet her financial demands.

The court was told that properties purchased with Dhawan’s own funds were registered either jointly or predominantly in Mukherji’s name under pressure. In one instance, Mukherji was listed as a 99 per cent owner of a property bought entirely with Dhawan’s money. Dhawan also alleged that he was compelled to purchase property in Australia in her name, which was later sold in 2019, with the proceeds retained by her as part of an interim arrangement.

The Australian settlement: What it awarded to Aesha Mukerji?

The Australian Family Court had previously passed orders in February 2024 dividing the couple’s global assets, including Dhawan’s properties and finances in India. Under that settlement, Mukherji was awarded 15 per cent of the total asset pool, which allowed her to retain assets worth approximately ₹7.46 crore (AU $1.17 million) and granted her an additional ₹15.95 crore (AU $2.5 million) from Dhawan, along with the transfer of a property.

Between 2021 and 2024, multiple orders were passed by Australian courts regarding the division of their assets. Mukherji, an Australian citizen, had sought 99 per cent ownership of three properties in Australia and custody of their son Zoravar.

Why Australian law doesn’t apply in India? 

The Delhi court’s ruling hinged on the fundamental differences between Australian and Indian matrimonial property laws. Under the Australian Family Law Act 1975, all properties -whether acquired in Australia or abroad – are brought into a “marital pool” for division, with courts able to award up to 60 per cent of assets based on each party’s financial and non-financial contributions, future needs, and earning capacity.

In contrast, Indian law under the Hindu Marriage Act 1955 mandates equitable distribution based on Indian legal principles. The court observed that the Australian legal framework was inconsistent with Indian public policy and contrary to the Hindu Marriage Act . Since the marriage was solemnised and registered in India, the foreign court lacked jurisdiction to adjudicate the dispute.

Judge Garg specifically noted that Dhawan’s participation in the Australian proceedings could not be treated as a voluntary submission to its jurisdiction, as it was allegedly carried out under fear and coercion.

Also READ: Shikhar Dhawan shuts down ‘false narratives’ about first wife after second marriage

Dhawan’s marriage and divorce timeline

Dhawan and Mukherji married in Delhi in October 2012. Mukherji, who was based in Australia and had two children from a previous marriage, continued to reside there after the wedding while Dhawan travelled between the two countries. Their son Zoravar was born in December 2014.

Differences between the couple emerged soon after the marriage, leading to prolonged legal disputes in both India and Australia. A Delhi court granted them divorce in October 2023 on grounds of mental cruelty, noting that Dhawan had suffered mental trauma after being kept away from their son for years . While permanent custody was not granted, visitation rights and access to video calls were provided. Dhawan later stated that he was subsequently blocked from communicating with his son.

Also READ: Shikhar Dhawan’s wife – All you need to know about the Irish beauty Sophie Shine



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Fans react as Mayank Agarwal hits fighting hundred for Karnataka in Ranji Trophy final against J&K
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Fans react as Mayank Agarwal hits fighting hundred for Karnataka in Ranji Trophy final against J&K



In a high-stakes Ranji Trophy 2025-26 final, Karnataka‘s seasoned campaigner Mayank Agarwal produced one of his most important career knocks, smashing a resilient century to keep his side afloat against a dominant Jammu & Kashmir at the KSCA Rajnagar Stadium. Despite Agarwal’s heroics, Karnataka remains in a precarious position as they chase J&K’s mountain-sized first-innings total of 584.

Mayank Agarwal’s blazing knock amidst a collapse

Coming off a season where his form had been under the scanner, Agarwal chose the grandest stage of domestic cricket to rediscover his touch. Karnataka’s reply to J&K’s 584 got off to a disastrous start on Day 3. The top order, featuring stars like KL Rahul (13) and Devdutt Padikkal (11), crumbled under a sensational opening spell by J&K’s Auqib Nabi.

At 57/4, Karnataka looked set for a humiliating follow-on. However, Agarwal stood like a rock at one end. Showing immense discipline against the moving ball, he slowly rebuilt the innings, reaching his 21st First-Class century in the final session of the day. His celebration—a simple raising of the helmet—was met with a standing ovation from a relieved Karnataka dressing room.

Support from Shreyas Gopal

While wickets tumbled at the other end, Agarwal found a steady partner in Shreyas Gopal. The duo stitched together a vital 87-run partnership for the fifth wicket. Gopal (25) played a perfect foil to Agarwal, blunting the J&K pace attack that had earlier “spat fire.”

Though Gopal fell late in the day, Agarwal’s presence ensured that Karnataka reached 176/5 by the time the shadows lengthened in Hubballi.

The match has not been without its share of drama. Day 2 was marred by a physical altercation when J&K captain Paras Dogra reportedly headbutted Karnataka’s KV Aneesh following a sledging incident. Agarwal had to play the role of peacemaker on that occasion, a temperament he carried into his batting today.

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

Here’s how fans reacted

Also WATCH: Auqib Nabi falls in unusual fashion to Prasidh Krishna in Ranji Trophy Final 2026





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AUS vs IND: Deepti Sharma shares update on Harmanpreet Kaur’s injury ahead of 2nd Women’s ODI
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AUS vs IND: Deepti Sharma shares update on Harmanpreet Kaur’s injury ahead of 2nd Women’s ODI



India Women all-rounder Deepti Sharma has reassured fans about skipper Harmanpreet Kaur’s fitness ahead of the crucial second ODI against Australia Women. The match is scheduled to be played at Bellerive Oval on Friday, and the Indian camp appears more relaxed after initial concerns over their captain’s injury.

Harmanpreet had suffered a scare during the opening ODI at Allan Border Field, injuring her left knee while batting. The incident forced her off the field, and she did not return during Australia’s run chase, sparking worries about her availability for the remainder of the series.

Deepti Sharma shares update on Harmanpreet Kaur’s injury

Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Deepti offered a calm and confident update on her skipper’s condition. Her words will come as a major boost for the visitors, who are aiming to level the series after losing the opener. Harmanpreet’s presence is vital not just for her batting but also for her leadership, especially in high-pressure overseas conditions.

“I can say that she is fit and fine. As a team, we played really good cricket. The result didn’t go our way, but we are looking forward and we’ll come back stronger in the next game,” Deepti said.

Earlier, the Board of Control for Cricket in India had confirmed that Harmanpreet sustained a left knee injury while batting and that the medical team was closely monitoring her recovery. In her absence on the field during the second innings, vice-captain Smriti Mandhana stepped up to lead the side.

Also READ: Australia vs India, Women’s ODI Series: Schedule, Team News, Broadcast and Live Streaming Details

Series on the line after opening defeat

India Women began the ODI series on a disappointing note, going down by six wickets in Brisbane. After being bowled out for 214 in 48.3 overs, the visitors struggled to defend the total. Australia Women comfortably chased down the target in just 38.2 overs, finishing with six wickets in hand.

The loss means India must win in Hobart to keep the series alive. With Harmanpreet likely available, the team management will be hoping for a stronger all-round performance.

Also READ: Stafanie Taylor becomes only 2nd player after Mithali Raj to achieve special record in WODIs

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



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Stafanie Taylor becomes only 2nd player after Mithali Raj to achieve special record in WODIs
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Stafanie Taylor becomes only 2nd player after Mithali Raj to achieve special record in WODIs



In a historic moment for West Indies and women’s cricket, captain Stafanie Taylor has officially etched her name deeper into the record books, becoming only the second player in Women’s One Day International (WODI) history to surpass the monumental mark. Achieved during the recent third WODI against Sri Lanka, this incredible milestone places Taylor in an exclusive club, previously occupied solely by India’s legendary Mithali Raj. It’s a testament to her enduring class, remarkable consistency, and unparalleled impact on the game for over a decade and a half.

Stafanie Taylor achieves historic record in WODIs

Notably, during the third WODI against the Lankans, Taylor accomplished the record of reaching the landmark of 6,000 runs in Women ODIs. ​Taylor’s journey to this landmark has been one of relentless dedication and supreme talent. Debuting in 2008, she quickly established herself as a cornerstone of the West Indies team, consistently delivering match-winning performances with both bat and ball. Her elegant stroke play, shrewd game awareness, and ability to perform under pressure have made her one of the most respected figures in the sport.

​Reaching 6,000 runs in WODIs is not merely a statistical achievement; it reflects a career of sustained excellence at the highest level. Over 170 matches and 160-plus innings, Taylor has faced the world’s best bowlers, adapting to various conditions and maintaining an impressive average of over 40. This consistency is a hallmark of truly great batters, and Taylor has personified it throughout her illustrious career.

​An elite club: Joining the ranks of legends

​Before Taylor, only one woman had scaled the 6,000-run peak, India’s former captain Mithali, who concluded her career with a staggering 7,805 runs. Mithali, a pioneer of women’s cricket, set the benchmark for longevity and run-scoring. For Taylor to now stand alongside her signifies her place among the pantheon of cricketing greats.

​While Charlotte Edwards famously came close, finishing with 5,992 runs, it is Taylor who has now successfully navigated the final few hurdles to claim this coveted spot. This achievement further solidifies her legacy as arguably the greatest female cricketer the West Indies has ever produced.

Also READ: Amelia Kerr’s magnificent century powers New Zealand to emphatic win over Zimbabwe in 1st Women’s T20I

Most runs in WODIs

Player Matches Runs
Mithali Raj 232 7805
Stafanie Taylor 173 6004
Charlotte Edwards 191 5992

Speaking about the match, Sri Lanka posted 217/7 in their allotted 50 overs after opting to bat first, with Harshitha Samarawickrama anchoring the innings through a composed 70 off 112 balls. Contributions from the middle order helped them reach a competitive total, but they were unable to fully capitalize in the final overs.

In reply, West Indies chased down the target in confident fashion, reaching 218/4 in 46 overs to seal a six-wicket victory. Captain Hayley Matthews led from the front with a magnificent 100 off 119 deliveries, controlling the chase with maturity and flair. Despite Sri Lanka having already clinched the WODI series with victories in the first two matches, the hosts showed character and resilience to bounce back strongly in the final ODI, avoiding a series whitewash and finishing the 50-over leg on a positive note.

Also READ: Hayley Matthews’ stunning century helps West Indies avoid clean sweep against Sri Lanka in WODI series

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



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WATCH: Auqib Nabi falls in unusual fashion to Prasidh Krishna in Ranji Trophy Final 2026
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WATCH: Auqib Nabi falls in unusual fashion to Prasidh Krishna in Ranji Trophy Final 2026



The Ranji Trophy Final 2026 at Hubballi took a dramatic turn on Day 3 as Karnataka’s pace spearhead, Prasidh Krishna, delivered a masterclass in persistence and skill. While the match had been dominated by a marathon batting performance from Jammu & Kashmir, the morning session belonged to Krishna, whose relentless spells finally broke the back of the J&K lower order. However, the talking point of the morning wasn’t just Krishna’s clinical fifer, but the incredibly unusual fashion in which Auqib Nabi lost his wicket, a moment that left commentators and fans alike in a state of disbelief.

Strange dismissal sees Auqib Nabi head back to pavilion in Ranji Trophy Final 2026

In a game defined by grit, Nabi’s departure will go down as one of the most bizarre sights in domestic cricket history. Facing the 163rd over of the innings, Nabi seemed mentally prepared for a short-ball barrage from the towering Krishna. As Krishna hit the crease for his sixth delivery of the over, Nabi pre-emptively committed to a duck, dropping his head and shoulders to avoid a bouncer that never came.

Instead, Krishna outsmarted the batter with a full-length delivery. Because Nabi had already crouched down, his bat was left dangled awkwardly in the air like a periscope. The ball skidded off the surface, kissed the edge of the static blade, and flew straight into the gloves of wicketkeeper Kruthik Krishna. Despite a difficult outing behind the stumps previously, Kruthik made no mistake in pouching the chance. Nabi stood frozen for a second, realizing he had effectively defended a full ball by trying to duck it, before trudging back to the pavilion for 2 (9). This wicket marked a turning point, providing Karnataka the opening they desperately needed to wrap up the tail.

Here’s the video:

Also READ: Ranji Trophy Final: 5 players to watch out for in Karnataka vs Jammu and Kashmir showdown

Prasidh Krishna’s fifer halts J&K’s marathon innings

While the unusual dismissal grabbed the headlines, the statistical highlight was Krishna’s five-wicket haul. J&K’s first innings was a testament to endurance, spanning 173.1 overs and yielding a massive total of 584. The foundation was laid by Yawer Hassan (88) and a brilliant century from Shubham Pundir (121), while veteran Paras Dogra contributed a steady 70 despite a temporary retirement from the crease.

Krishna’s figures of 5/96 in 34.1 overs were the result of pure toil on a surface that offered little assistance by the third day. His victims included the top-order threat of Qamran Iqbal (63) and the dangerous Abdul Samad (61). By removing Abid Mushtaq and then Nabi in quick succession, Krishna ensured that J&K didn’t push the score beyond the 600-run mark.

At Lunch on Day 3, Karnataka faced a daunting task, reaching 35/1 in 13 overs. The hosts lost the crucial wicket of Rahul (13), trapped by Nabi, who found some redemption with the ball, after a successful DRS challenge by J&K. With Mayank Agarwal (16) and Devdutt Padikkal (4) at the crease, Karnataka trails by 549 runs, setting the stage for a massive uphill battle in the remaining sessions of this Ranji Trophy Final.

Also WATCH: J&K captain Paras Dogra headbutts Karnataka fielder, Mayank Agarwal steps in to defuse tense moment





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