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Sri Lanka’s ‘terrible’ batting against England baffles Angelo Mathews
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Sri Lanka’s ‘terrible’ batting against England baffles Angelo Mathews


The way Sri Lankan batters surrendered in front of the England bowlers on February 22 at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Balagolla makes the Lankan legend Angelo Mathews perplexed. He took to his official ‘X’ account to express his disappointment right after the match.

On Sunday, Sri Lanka was up against England for their opening match of the Super 8 of the ongoing ICC T20 World Cup 2026. Sri Lanka, the co-host of the tournament, displayed top-notch cricket in the group stage and was the favorite to defeat England as well today.

Sri Lanka was the front runner to win the match

On Balagolla, England’s batting order collapsed in front of the home team’s bowling attack. Dunith Wellalage’s 3-wicket figure and Maheesh Theekshana and Dilshan Madushanka’s brace each restricted England to 146 runs in exchange for 9 wickets in 20 overs.

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As multiple Sri Lankan batters were in top form, and the target was looking insufficient to be protected, many cricket experts and fans believed that the cricket team of the island nation would outclass England with ease.

Momentum shifted once England went to bowl

Once the second innings of the match kicked off, things started to shape in a completely different way, proving most of the predictions wrong. Pathum Nissanka, who smashed a ton against Australia and is among the leading run scorers in the tournament, was dismissed cheaply.

Kusal Mendis, Dunith Wellalage, Pavan Rathnayake, Kamindu Mendis, and the other stars of the Sri Lankan batting combination come and go, without putting any notable efforts to save the team.

Captain Dasun Shanaka tried hard to hold one end of the crease, but his 30-run knock was not enough against England’s 146. As soon as Shanaka went out, all of Sri Lanka’s hope to win the match vanished within seconds. The island nation folded for only 95, and England won by 51 runs.

Terrible: Angelo Mathews

Former Sri Lanka captain Angelo Mathews couldn’t believe what he witnessed. Mathews, who is now working as a commentator and a cricket expert in the tournament, described the moment as ‘terrible.’ He slams the batters for not performing sensibly.

“OMG! No words! Pathetic batting by Sri Lanka. After bowling so well, no batter wanted to bat sensibly and get Sri Lanka home! “Terrible,” the former cricketer expressed himself.

England all-rounder Will Jacks was named as the player of the match for his contribution both with bat and ball. With the bat, he added an important 21 off 14, and with the ball, he dismissed Kusal Mendis, Rathnayake, and Wellalage to claim the game.

“We played badly. All the bowlers on our side bowled well; it’s not that they (England) bowled really well. “We played some rash shots in critical intervals,” Dasun Shanaka, the Sri Lanka captain, said after the match.

Read More: Dushan Hemantha loses his wicket in a bizarre fashion as England run riot against Sri Lanka





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Fans slam Team India for ignoring Axar Patel in the Super 8 clash against South Africa at T20 World Cup 2026
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Fans slam Team India for ignoring Axar Patel in the Super 8 clash against South Africa at T20 World Cup 2026



The much-anticipated Super 8 clash of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup between India and South Africa got underway at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday, February 22. With both sides considered strong contenders for the title, fans expected a tactical masterclass. However, moments after the toss, social media was flooded with criticism as Team India decided to bench vice-captain Axar Patel for the crucial encounter.

South Africa skipper Aiden Markram won the toss and elected to bat first in Ahmedabad. The Proteas made four changes to their XI from the previous group-stage match, bringing back key players including Keshav Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi and David Miller, all of whom had been rested earlier. The move underlined South Africa’s intent to field their strongest combination for the high-stakes Super 8 fixture.

India stick to unchanged XI

In contrast, India opted to go with the same playing XI that featured in their final group-stage game against the Netherlands. The decision meant that Axar, who serves as the team’s vice-captain, once again missed out.

The call raised eyebrows instantly. Axar has been one of India’s dependable all-rounders in white-ball cricket, offering balance with both bat and ball. Earlier in the tournament, he played a key role against Pakistan, picking up two crucial wickets and maintaining tight lines in the middle overs. His ability to contribute handy runs down the order further enhances his value in pressure matches.

At the toss, India captain Suryakumar Yadav clarified that Axar’s exclusion was purely a tactical decision. The skipper suggested that the team management believed the existing combination offered better balance against South Africa’s line-up. However, the explanation did little to calm the storm brewing online.

Fans lambast India for not picking Axar Patel in the game

As soon as the playing XI was announced, fans took to social media platforms to express their displeasure. Many supporters questioned how a vice-captain and proven match-winner could be sidelined in such a critical fixture. Some alleged poor planning and even hinted at internal politics within the setup.

Criticism was not limited to the captain alone. Head coach Gautam Gambhir also faced backlash, with fans debating the team’s strategic direction in the knockout stages of the tournament. The decision was labelled “illogical” and “hard to understand” by several cricket enthusiasts who felt Axar’s all-round abilities could have been crucial against a powerful South African batting unit.

With the tournament entering a decisive phase, every selection call is bound to be scrutinized. Whether India’s unchanged combination pays dividends or the absence of Axar proves costly remains to be seen. For now, though, the team management’s bold call has certainly ignited a debate among fans during one of the biggest clashes of the T20 World Cup 2026.

Also READ: Fans react as Will Jacks’ spin masterclass powers England to dominant Super 8 win over Sri Lanka in T20 World Cup 2026

Here’s how fans reacted

Also WATCH: T20 World Cup 2026 – Dasun Shanaka’s bullet throw removes Tom Banton in SL vs ENG Super 8 showdown





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Daren Sammy defends T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8’s pre-seeding system prior to West Indies vs Zimbabwe encounter
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Daren Sammy defends T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8’s pre-seeding system prior to West Indies vs Zimbabwe encounter



The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 has entered the Super 8 stage, but a familiar debate recently resurfaced about the pre-seeding system. This administrative framework, designed to help fans and broadcasters plan for matches months in advance, has come under fire for creating a lopsided bracket. Following the group stages, all four group winners – India, South Africa, West Indies and Zimbabwe – have been funnelled into Group 1, while Group 2 consists entirely of runners-up.

Ahead of a critical clash between the West Indies and a resurgent Zimbabwe at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, West Indies head coach Daren Sammy addressed the noise surrounding the tournament’s structure. Choosing to prioritize performance over politics, the two-time World Cup-winning captain offered a grounded perspective on the logistical challenges of modern global cricket.

Daren Sammy responds to concerns over fixed T20 World Cup seeding before facing Zimbabwe

Breaking his silence on the seeding debate, Sammy acknowledged that while the pre-determined slots might seem frustrating from a sporting integrity standpoint, they serve a practical purpose for the tournament’s audience.

“I do understand from the logistics standpoint, trying to give the fans the surety,” Sammy stated during Sunday’s pre-match press conference. He noted that the “surety” of knowing where and when a team will play allows traveling supporters to book flights and accommodation, a necessity in a multi-host tournament across India and Sri Lanka.

For Sammy and his squad, the “Group of Death” scenario—where they must navigate past India and South Africa in addition to Zimbabwe—was a challenge they accepted long ago.

“We knew before the tournament what was going to happen, where we were going to be. We just try to control what we can,” he explained. Rather than viewing the bracket as a “punishment for excellence,” Sammy characterized it as the natural progression of a premier event where the best must eventually face the best. His message to the Men in Maroon was simple: stay on track and respect the immediate opponent.

Also WATCH: Dasun Shanaka’s bullet throw removes Tom Banton in SL vs ENG Super 8 showdown

West Indies’ unbeaten momentum meets Zimbabwe’s rise in their first Super 8 encounter

The West Indies enter the Super 8s with significant wind in their sails, having finished the group stage with a perfect 4-0 record. Their latest victory, a clinical 42-run win over Italy at Eden Gardens, was a testament to their balanced depth. Captain Shai Hope anchored the innings with a blistering 75 off 46 balls, while the pace battery, led by Shamar Joseph (4/30) and Matthew Forde, has consistently dismantled opposition batting lineups.

However, Zimbabwe is no longer the “minnow” of the tournament. Under Sikandar Raza’s inspired leadership, the Chevrons topped their group after stunning upsets over Australia and Sri Lanka. Sammy was quick to praise their progress, noting that Zimbabwe’s presence in the Super 8s isn’t a fluke but a result of capitalizing on opportunity.

“Zimbabwe did what they had to do,” Sammy remarked, suggesting that their rise underlines the competitive spirit of this World Cup. As both unbeaten sides prepare to square off, the focus remains squarely on the 22 yards of the Wankhede, leaving the seeding debates for the analysts in the commentary box.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: Dinesh Karthik picks his semifinalists; includes India and three other powerhouses



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South Africa crush India as David Miller, bowlers run riot in Super 8 clash at T20 World Cup 2026
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South Africa crush India as David Miller, bowlers run riot in Super 8 clash at T20 World Cup 2026



South Africa delivered a commanding performance to outclass India by 76 runs in their Super 8 Group 1 encounter of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 at the Narendra Modi Stadium. After electing to bat first, the Proteas posted a formidable 187/7 and then unleashed a clinical bowling display to bundle India out for just 111 in 18.5 overs.

David Miller’s batting brilliance powers South Africa to a formidable total

Despite losing early wickets, South Africa recovered brilliantly through a middle-order masterclass. Captain Aiden Markram (4) and Quinton de Kock (6) fell cheaply, while Ryan Rickelton managed only 7. However, Dewald Brevis injected momentum with a brisk 45 off 29 balls, striking three fours and three sixes.

The innings truly belonged to David Miller, who played a scintillating knock of 63 off just 35 deliveries. The left-hander smashed seven fours and three sixes, shifting the momentum decisively in South Africa’s favour. Tristan Stubbs provided the perfect support, hammering 44 off 24 balls, including three sixes, as the duo dismantled the Indian attack in the latter half of the innings.

For India, Jasprit Bumrah stood out with a sensational spell of 3/15 in four overs, keeping things tight even as runs flowed from the other end. Arshdeep Singh chipped in with 2/28, while Varun Chakaravarthy and Shivam Dube claimed a wicket each. However, Hardik Pandya’s 0/45 and the expensive spells from others allowed South Africa to finish strongly.

Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj dismantle India’s fragile batting

Chasing 188, India endured a nightmare start. Ishan Kishan was dismissed for a duck in the opening over, and Tilak Varma followed soon after for just 1. Abhishek Sharma showed brief intent with 15 off 12 balls but failed to convert his start.

Suryakumar Yadav struggled for fluency, scoring 18 off 22 balls, as the pressure mounted. Washington Sundar (11) and Rinku Singh (0) were unable to steady the innings. Shivam Dube fought a lone battle with a gritty 42 off 37 deliveries, while Hardik Pandya contributed 18, but the required rate had already spiralled out of control.

South Africa’s bowlers executed their plans to perfection. Marco Jansen was the pick of the attack, finishing with superb figures of 4/22 in 3.5 overs. Keshav Maharaj spun a web around the middle order, claiming 3/24 in his three overs. Corbin Bosch impressed with 2/12, while Markram chipped in with a wicket in his solitary over. Lungi Ngidi kept things tight, conceding just 15 runs in four overs. India were eventually bowled out for 111 in 18.5 overs, handing South Africa a thumping 76-run victory.

Also WATCH: T20 World Cup 2026 – Corbin Bosch and Keshav Maharaj nearly collide in heart-stopping catch to dismiss Abhishek Sharma

Here’s how fans reacted

Also READ: Fans slam Team India for ignoring Axar Patel in the Super 8 clash against South Africa at T20 World Cup 2026





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T20 World Cup 2026 [WATCH]: Corbin Bosch and Keshav Maharaj nearly collide in heart-stopping catch to dismiss Abhishek Sharma
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T20 World Cup 2026 [WATCH]: Corbin Bosch and Keshav Maharaj nearly collide in heart-stopping catch to dismiss Abhishek Sharma



The high-voltage Super 8 Group 1 clash between India and South Africa at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad witnessed a breathtaking moment in the powerplay as Corbin Bosch pulled off a sensational catch, nearly colliding with Keshav Maharaj, to dismiss Abhishek Sharma. The dramatic effort came at a crucial juncture, leaving India in early turmoil while chasing a challenging 187-run target set by the Proteas in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.

South Africa, led by Aiden Markram, had earlier posted a competitive 187/7 after winning the toss and electing to bat first. With scoreboard pressure mounting, India needed a steady start. Instead, they found themselves rocked by early strikes.

Corbin Bosch takes a stunning catch to get rid of Abhishek Sharma

The turning point in the early overs came on the third ball of the fifth over. Marco Jansen banged in a clever knuckle ball to Abhishek, who failed to pick the variation. Already through with his shot, Abhishek ended up mistiming it badly. The ball ballooned high into the Ahmedabad night sky but did not carry much distance.

From mid-wicket, Bosch sprinted to his right, while from mid-on, Maharaj tracked back sharply. For a moment, confusion loomed large as neither player called decisively. The two almost collided under the swirling ball. It nearly slipped from Bosch’s grasp as it dipped sharply, but the South African all-rounder kept his eyes fixed and clutched it safely to his chest.

The stadium, packed to the rafters, fell into stunned silence. India had been rattled, and so had the crowd. What could have been a costly misjudgment turned into a spectacular breakthrough for the Proteas.

Here’s the video:

Also READ: IND vs SA: Jasprit Bumrah breaks Ravichandran Ashwin’s T20 World Cup record

Proteas seize control as India struggle in the chase

Chasing 187 was always going to require composure, but India’s innings never found stability. Ishan Kishan fell in the very first over, putting immediate pressure on the batting line-up. Tilak Varma followed soon after in the next over, compounding India’s troubles.

Abhishek’s dismissal only worsened the slide. The early intent backfired as South Africa’s bowlers executed their plans to perfection. Washington Sundar failed to steady the innings and departed cheaply, while skipper Suryakumar Yadav could not anchor the chase either.

At one stage, India were reeling at 51/5, a position few would have anticipated at the start of the innings. The Proteas bowlers maintained disciplined lines and cleverly mixed their pace, exploiting the conditions superbly. Markram’s side looked charged up in the field. The near-collision between Bosch and Maharaj symbolised their aggressive approach and hunger. While the moment could have resulted in embarrassment, Bosch’s safe hands ensured South Africa tightened their grip on the contest.

With the pressure mounting and the required rate spiralling, India’s collapse only deepened as more wickets tumbled in quick succession. From 51/5, things went from bad to worse, with the scoreboard now reading a worrying 88/8. South Africa have completely tightened the screws, sensing a massive Super 8 victory. India, on the other hand, are staring at a heavy defeat unless something extraordinary unfolds in the closing overs.

Also READ: Fans slam Team India for ignoring Axar Patel in the Super 8 clash against South Africa at T20 World Cup 2026



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IND vs SA: Jasprit Bumrah breaks Ravichandran Ashwin’s T20 World Cup record
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IND vs SA: Jasprit Bumrah breaks Ravichandran Ashwin’s T20 World Cup record



India’s premier fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah added another glorious chapter to his illustrious career during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 clash against South Africa at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday, equaling Ravichandran Ashwin’s record to become India’s all-time highest wicket-taker in T20 World Cup history.

The record-breaking moment: Jasprit Bumrah’s double strike

Bumrah entered the match needing three wickets to break Ashwin’s tally of 32 scalps in T20 World Cups. He didn’t have to wait long to achieve the feat. In the second over of South Africa’s innings, Bumrah produced a moment of pure magic to clean bowl Quinton de Kock with a peach of a delivery .

The wicket was quintessential Bumrah – a 137 kmph delivery angled across from wide of the crease that nipped back sharply to take de Kock’s leg stump. The South African opener, attempting to slog across the line, had no foot movement and missed completely, leaving his stumps in disarray. De Kock departed for just 6 runs off 7 balls, giving India the breakthrough they desperately needed.

But Bumrah wasn’t finished. In his next over, he returned to claim his second wicket of the innings – and his 32nd in T20 World Cups – dismissing Ryan Rickelton, who mistimed a slower delivery to Shivam Dube at mid-off. With those two wickets, Bumrah drew level with Ashwin before returning to surpass the latter’s tally with the dismissal of Corbin Bosh for 5.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026 – Dinesh Karthik picks his semifinalists; includes India and three other powerhouses

Bumrah’s spell shakes South Africa

South Africa captain Aiden Markram won the toss and elected to bat first, hoping to put pressure on the Indian bowling attack. However, Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh had other ideas.

After Arshdeep bowled a tight first over, Bumrah struck in his very first over to remove de Kock. He followed up with the wicket of Rickelton in his next over, leaving South Africa reeling at 20/3 inside the powerplay. The Proteas’ top order was in shambles, and Bumrah’s figures at that stage read 2 overs, 2 wickets for just 6 runs – a testament to his precision and control.

The early breakthroughs put India firmly in control, with the defending champions looking to assert their dominance in the Super 8 clash. For Bumrah, the three wickets were not just about personal milestones but about giving his team the edge in a match widely seen as a dress rehearsal for a potential final showdown.

Also READ: Fans react as Will Jacks’ spin masterclass powers England to dominant Super 8 win over Sri Lanka in T20 World Cup 2026



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


Former Indian cricketer Shikhar Dhawan has embarked on a beautiful new chapter, marrying his long-time partner Sophie Shine in an intimate ceremony in Delhi NCR on Saturday, February 21, 2026. As pictures of the couple’s dreamy wedding take social media by storm, here’s everything you need to know about the Irish beauty who captured the heart of the man fondly called ‘Gabbar’.

Lesser know facts about Sophie Shine

Sophie Shine is an Irish finance and product management professional who came into the public spotlight following her engagement and subsequent marriage to Shikhar Dhawan . Unlike many partners of cricketers who come from entertainment or modelling backgrounds, Sophie is a distinguished corporate leader with an impressive international career.

Born in June 1990 in Limerick, Ireland, Sophie is currently 35 years old . She holds Irish nationality and has built a formidable reputation in global finance and consulting .

Education: Strong academic foundation 

Sophie completed her schooling at Castletroy College in Limerick, a well-known educational institution in the region  She pursued higher education at the Limerick Institute of Technology (LIT), now part of the Technological University of the Shannon, where she earned a degree in Marketing and Management.

Sophie Shine

Her academic background in business and marketing laid a strong foundation for her subsequent success in the corporate world.

Professional Career

Sophie has built an enviable career spanning continents and sectors. She began her professional journey in Ireland’s financial services sector as a Client Service Representative at Northern Trust Corporation in March 2018 .

Sophie Shine

Key professional roles:

Sophie served as Second Vice President – Product Consultant at Northern Trust Corporation in Abu Dhabi, one of the world’s leading financial services institutions. In this role, she handled product management, client strategy, and financial services consulting for major clients.

In March 2025, Sophie transitioned to the sports and philanthropy sector, taking on the role of Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Da One Sports, Dhawan’s conglomerate. This move brought her closer to Dhawan’s business ventures and philanthropic initiatives.

Shikhar Dhawan, Sophie Shine

Sophie also currently heads the Shikhar Dhawan Foundation, the non-profit philanthropic arm of the Da One Group, playing a key role in initiatives impacting education, health and community development.

Relationship with Shikhar Dhawan: A modern love story

Sophie and Shikhar first crossed paths at a restaurant in Dubai, where their friendship gradually blossomed into a romantic relationship. In a candid revelation, Sophie shared that it was Dhawan’s “mischievous eyes” that attracted her to him.

Relationship timeline

2023: The couple reportedly began dating after their initial meeting in Dubai.

2024: Sophie was first spotted cheering for Dhawan during Punjab Kings’ IPL matches, sparking speculation.

2025: Both were seen together at the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Dubai, further fuelling rumours.

Sophie officially confirmed their relationship on Instagram with a heartfelt post captioned “My love.”

Shikhar Dhawan, Sophie Shine

January 12, 2026: The couple announced their engagement through a dreamy Instagram post. Their engagement announcement read: “From shared smiles to shared dreams. Grateful for the love, the blessings, and every good wish for our engagement as we choose togetherness forever.”

February 21, 2026: Shikhar and Sophie tied the knot in a private ceremony.

Also READ: Shikhar Dhawan marries Irish girlfriend Sophie Shine in dreamy ceremony; viral pics take internet by storm

Life in India and social media presence

Sophie has embraced life in India, frequently traveling between Abu Dhabi, where she maintains her corporate base, and Delhi NCR, where she now has a significant presence . She has built a substantial social media following, with approximately 380,000 followers on Instagram.

Sophie Shine

Over the past months, Sophie has regularly shared glimpses of her life with Shikhar, including fun reels and pictures that showcase their chemistry and shared sense of humour.

Also READ: Shikhar Dhawan and Sophie Shine enjoy a serene holiday in Ireland



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Fans react as Will Jacks’ spin masterclass powers England to dominant Super 8 win over Sri Lanka in T20 World Cup 2026
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Fans react as Will Jacks’ spin masterclass powers England to dominant Super 8 win over Sri Lanka in T20 World Cup 2026



England delivered a clinical all-round performance to defeat Sri Lanka by 51 runs in the Super 8 Group 2 clash of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium. After posting 146/9 in their 20 overs, England’s bowlers bundled Sri Lanka out for just 95 in 16.4 overs to register a commanding victory. Will Jacks was named Player of the Match for his impactful contribution with both bat and ball.

Phil Salt anchors England innings amid regular setbacks

Asked to bat first after Sri Lanka won the toss, England had a steady but cautious start. Phil Salt stood tall at the top of the order, playing a composed knock of 62 off 40 balls, striking six boundaries and two sixes. While Salt found fluency, wickets kept falling at the other end.

Jos Buttler struggled for rhythm and managed just seven runs, while Jacob Bethell and Tom Banton failed to convert their starts. Harry Brook injected some momentum with a quick 14 off seven balls, but Sri Lanka’s disciplined bowling ensured England never truly broke free.

Jacks added a valuable 21 off 14 balls, hitting four crisp boundaries, while late contributions from Sam Curran and Jamie Overton pushed England to 146/9 at the end of their innings.

Sri Lanka’s bowlers kept things tight throughout. Dunith Wellalage was particularly impressive, claiming three wickets for 26 runs in his four overs. Maheesh Theekshana picked up two wickets while conceding just 21 runs, and Dilshan Madushanka also struck twice to keep England under pressure.

Also WATCH: T20 World Cup 2026 – Dasun Shanaka’s bullet throw removes Tom Banton in SL vs ENG Super 8 showdown

Will Jacks dismantle Sri Lanka’s chase

Chasing 147, Sri Lanka never found stability in their innings. Early breakthroughs from Jofra Archer and Liam Dawson dented the top order. Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis failed to build momentum, and Sri Lanka slipped into trouble inside the powerplay.

Dasun Shanaka attempted a counterattack with a fighting 30 off 24 balls, including two sixes, while Kamindu Mendis chipped in with 13. However, regular wickets halted any hopes of a comeback.

Jacks turned the game decisively with the ball, claiming three wickets for 22 runs in his four overs. His spell dismantled Sri Lanka’s middle order at a crucial stage. Adil Rashid was equally effective, finishing with two wickets for just 13 runs in 3.4 overs, while Dawson and Archer chipped in with two wickets each. Sri Lanka were eventually bowled out for 95 in 16.4 overs, handing England a comprehensive 51-run win.

Here’s how fans reacted

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: Former opener explains key strategy to dismiss Aiden Markram in IND vs SA Super 8 clash





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T20 World Cup 2026: Former opener explains key strategy to dismiss Aiden Markram in IND vs SA Super 8 clash
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T20 World Cup 2026: Former opener explains key strategy to dismiss Aiden Markram in IND vs SA Super 8 clash



India are all set to take on South Africa in a blockbuster Super 8 fixture of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday, February 22. With the tournament entering a decisive phase, this clash between two title contenders promises fireworks.

While much of the spotlight has been on India’s in-form opener Abhishek Sharma, former India cricketer believes the bigger focus should be on South Africa’s captain Aiden Markram. According to the ex-opening batter, neutralising Markram early could significantly tilt the balance in India’s favour.

Markram has been a key pillar in South Africa’s batting unit, providing stability at the top while also accelerating when required. His ability to anchor the innings and shift gears makes him a dangerous proposition, especially in pressure games like this one.

Former opener reveals game plan to dismiss Aiden Markram

Former opening batter and now a popular broadcaster Aakash Chopra has suggested a clear tactical move for India captain Suryakumar Yadav — introduce left-arm spinner Axar Patel early in the innings to target Markram.

Explaining his reasoning on his YouTube channel, Chopra pointed out that Markram’s numbers against Axar are far from impressive. The South African skipper has reportedly scored at nearly a run-a-ball against the left-arm spinner and has been dismissed three times in a relatively small sample of deliveries. Chopra emphasized that Markram’s discomfort against left-arm spin is well-documented.

He further broke down the technical aspect of the contest. Markram enjoys playing on the off side and often attempts inside-out shots against spin. However, Axar’s angle from wide of the crease brings the ball back in after pitching, creating deception. While Markram might feel he is playing with the spin toward the off side, the ball actually continues to angle in with the arm, leading to mistimed strokes.

“Even before Varun Chakravarthy, I feel Axar Patel, because he (Markram) goes at a run-a-ball against him. His strike rate is slightly better against everyone else. Axar has dismissed him three times and has bowled only 34 or 35 balls, in which he has scored only 38 runs. It is well-documented that left-arm spin versus Aiden Markram is an issue. He has an issue against leg-spin as well, but it’s also there against left-arm spin,” said Chopra.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: Shaun Pollock names two key bowlers for India in the Super 8 game against South Africa

Chopra also noted that Markram has shown vulnerability against leg-spin, which could bring Varun Chakravarthy into play during the powerplay overs. The idea, according to him, is to attack with spin rather than wait for the middle overs. By doing so, India can disrupt South Africa’s rhythm right at the start.

“So Axar Patel should be introduced early. He likes playing on the off side and likes playing inside-out shots. Axar bowls from wide of the crease and brings the ball in, and Markram feels he is playing with the spin on the off side, but it’s not with the spin. The bowl comes in with the arm and keeps going in after pitching. Markram has been guilty. He tries to play on the off side or goes slightly back to full deliveries,” added Chopra.

Tactical battle could define Super 8 momentum

The India-South Africa encounter is not just about big names but also about small tactical edges. In high-pressure tournaments, match-ups often decide outcomes. If India manage to exploit Markram’s weakness early, they could put the Proteas under immediate pressure. With quality bowlers like Axar and Varun at their disposal, India have the tools to execute this strategy effectively. However, execution under match conditions will be crucial. Markram, on the other hand, is experienced enough to counter plans and adapt quickly.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: Harbhajan Singh predicts Team India’s playing XI for Super 8 clash against South Africa



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T20 World Cup 2026 [WATCH]: Dasun Shanaka’s bullet throw removes Tom Banton in SL vs ENG Super 8 showdown
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T20 World Cup 2026 [WATCH]: Dasun Shanaka’s bullet throw removes Tom Banton in SL vs ENG Super 8 showdown



The atmosphere at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium was nothing short of electric as Sri Lanka and England faced off in a high-stakes 42nd Match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. With a spot in the semi-finals potentially on the line, the Super Eights, Group 2 encounter on February 22 delivered a moment of pure fielding brilliance that has already gone viral. While England’s power-hitters were expected to dominate, it was the veteran Sri Lankan, Dasun Shanaka, who stole the spotlight with a piece of athleticism that defied his years.

Dasun Shanaka’s spectacular direct hit sent Tom Banton packing during SL vs ENG Super 8 clash

The defining moment of the first innings arrived in the 8th over, just as England was looking to rebuild after a shaky Powerplay. Facing Dushmantha Chameera, Tom Banton looked to rotate the strike against an inswinging yorker. Banton tapped the ball toward mid-off and immediately called for a risky single, a decision that proved fatal.

The ball travelled quickly toward Dasun Shanaka, who moved like a predator. Gathering the ball cleanly as the bounce popped perfectly into his palms, Shanaka didn’t hesitate. In one fluid motion, he uncorked a bullet throw that smashed directly into the stumps. Despite a desperate, full-length dive from Banton, the Englishman was caught well short of his crease.

The dismissal left England reeling at 49/3, with Banton departing for a lackluster 6 off 7 balls. The Pallekele crowd erupted as the replay showed the precision of the hit; it was a masterclass in modern fielding that emphasized Sri Lanka’s disciplined approach under pressure.

Here’s the video:

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: Dinesh Karthik picks his semifinalists; includes India and three other powerhouses

Disciplined Sri Lanka restrict England to a low score in Kandy

Despite the early wobbles and the brilliance of Shanaka, England managed to scratch their way to a competitive, albeit underwhelming, total of 146/9 in their 20 overs. The innings was a story of a lone warrior in Phil Salt, who played a gritty knock of 62 off 40 balls, including six boundaries and a solitary six. Salt was the only English batter to look comfortable against a versatile Sri Lankan bowling attack that used the humid Kandy conditions to perfection.

The spin duo of Dunith Wellalage and Maheesh Theekshana strangled the middle order. Wellalage was particularly lethal, finishing with figures of 3/26, claiming the massive wickets of Jos Buttler (7) and the dangerous Harry Brook (14). The DRS played its part in Brook’s dismissal, as an umpire’s callon an LBW shout upheld the on-field decision, further dampening England’s momentum.

As the innings break commenced, win probabilities shifted heavily in favour of Sri Lanka, leaving England’s bowlers with a massive task to defend a sub-150 total on a pitch that appeared to be slowing down.

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