Team Australia (Pic credit: ICC)

Australia’s shock group-stage exit from the T20 World Cup has sparked widespread outrage, with critics tearing into their bowling depth and branding the campaign “shambolic,” while former spinner Brad Hogg delivered the most damning verdict: “We probably deserve what we’ve got at this stage.” Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!The 2021 champions were eliminated in Sri Lanka on Tuesday after Zimbabwe sealed qualification when their match against Ireland was washed out, leaving Australia stranded and unable to catch up in the points table.

The abrupt exit marks a stunning collapse for one of the tournament heavyweights, undone by injuries, questionable selections and a dramatic dip in performances. The absence of pace trio Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and retired T20 spearhead Mitchell Starc left the attack badly exposed. The Australian said the bowling unit was a “shadow of former glories,” adding that players central to previous success “have fallen off a cliff when the stakes are at their highest.”Australia’s campaign spiralled further amid fierce criticism of selection decisions, particularly the handling of Steve Smith. Despite strong form, Smith was initially overlooked and only added later as cover. “We still haven’t had a compelling answer as to why he wasn’t yet in Colombo,” the newspaper wrote, questioning why a proven performer against spin was missing during the crucial defeat to Zimbabwe and later left out again as the middle order collapsed against Sri Lanka.

Hogg said the problems exposed deeper structural concerns. “We don’t have that bowling depth, and that’s really shown,” he told Talksport, warning that selectors must urgently rethink the future. “They’ve got to look at their depth of bowling… what’s our next generation going to look like?”Adding to the humiliation, British broadcaster Piers Morgan mocked Australia’s exit, posting sarcastic condolences online.

Shoaib Akhtar and Mohsin Naqvi (Agency Image)

Shoaib Akhtar made headlines again this week after appearing to backtrack on his scathing remarks about Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi. The former pacer, who had called Naqvi “incompetent and illiterate” during an appearance on an Indian news channel, attempted a delicate retraction less than 24 hours later on Pakistani television. His effort, however, came across as fumbling and awkward.Speaking on ARY News, Akhtar insisted that his harsh words were aimed at the broader state of cricket administration in Pakistan, not Naqvi personally.

“The words ‘incompetent and jaahil (illiterate)’ that I used were not meant for Mohsin Naqvi bhai. It looked like I said those words for him. The incompetency topic I spoke about was from a broader perspective: that such a person can destroy any institution. My hint was not towards Mohsin Naqvi (said while fumbling repeatedly) but the top brass that is running international cricket. But the television channel twisted it. In the same programme, I also said that we should not say wrong things about Mohsin Naqvi, he is a good guy. He wants to help Pakistan cricket but does not get the right advice,” Akhtar explained.He added that his frustration with Naqvi was limited to the PCB chief’s sudden U-turn on the boycott stance against India in the T20 World Cup. “I am angry with him as he took a stand but did not stick with it. The entire community was with him. He could have asked me about taking the U-turn,” he said.

What Shoaib Akhtar originally said on Mohsin Naqvi

Akhtar’s initial criticism had been blunt. On ABP News, he questioned Naqvi’s suitability for the PCB chairman role. “If you make me the chairman of a channel, how would I know how to run it? Now there is a person who does not know, and he is the chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board. So what can be done now? How will the team function like this?” he asked. “Do you know what the biggest crime in the world is? Giving a big job to an incompetent and illiterate person.”The former pacer also weighed in on the criticism surrounding Pakistan’s star players Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi following the defeat to India. “Shaheen is not fit. He is not able to bowl over 125 kmph. Secondly, Babar Azam is not going to deliver until you play him as an opener. He is of no use in the middle order. This format is not made for him. Shadab is also an unusual choice, I do not understand it. I do not think we are compatible against India. They are playing a cricket that is 50 years ahead of us.”He concluded with a sweeping assessment of Pakistan cricket. “Everyone is to be blamed for this – myself, the cricket board, media, everyone. We picked the wrong people, made them stars. We did not invest in cricketing infrastructure.”

Pakistan cricket team (AP/PTI)

Pakistan’s T20 World Cup campaign has reached a critical juncture. A win against Namibia in their final league fixture on Wednesday is non-negotiable if Salman Agha’s men are to keep their Super 8 hopes alive. Anything less, and their tournament ends prematurely.The pressure has mounted quickly. After bold claims that this was a stronger outfit than the one that faltered against India in the Asia Cup, Pakistan suffered a familiar 61-run defeat on Sunday. While their clashes with India in the 2022 and 2024 T20 World Cups were tight, they still fell short. Since the Asia Cup, India have now registered four comfortable wins on the trot, reinforcing Pakistan’s struggles in marquee encounters.

Scrutiny has intensified around senior players Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi. Shaheen failed to control the game in the PowerPlay or at the death, returning figures of 1 for 31 in two overs. Babar’s issues against spin continue to surface — his strike-rate against spin since returning to the T20I side stands at 101.70 — raising questions about balance and intent in the middle order.Selection dilemmas loom. Salman Mirza and Fakhar Zaman are in contention should the management opt for changes. Pakistan’s heavy reliance on spin — 13, 16 and 18 overs across three games — also reflects a side still searching for the right combination.Namibia, though eliminated, are not without motivation. With the 2027 ODI World Cup on the horizon as co-hosts, they are keen to gather momentum. For Pakistan, though, the equation is simple: win or go home.In the other fixture, India face the Netherlands in the night game. Having already secured qualification for the Super 8s with three wins from three matches, India will view this contest as an opportunity to fine-tune combinations and tick a few remaining boxes.Abhishek Sharma is yet to get going in this T20 World Cup, and the team management will be keen for their No. 1 batter to spend valuable time at the crease ahead of the knockout stage. Getting runs under his belt could prove crucial in the business end of the tournament.There could also be changes in the bowling department. Kuldeep Yadav might make way for Arshdeep Singh, who was included as an extra spinner against Pakistan. With qualification already secured, India may use this match to test their bench strength and settle on the most balanced XI for the Super 8s.

Today T20 World Cup matches – Tuesday, 18 February

Sourav Ganguly and Imran Khan (Agency Image)

Former India captain Sourav Ganguly has called for former Pakistan skipper Imran Khan to be treated with dignity and proper care, amid growing concern over the latter’s health in prison.Ganguly’s remarks follow a joint appeal by 14 former international captains from five Test-playing nations urging the Pakistan government to ensure improved prison conditions and appropriate medical attention for the World Cup-winning leader. “They have done the right thing. So, I’m sure Imran Khan must be looked after and respected,” Ganguly told reporters.

The petition, initiated by former Australia captain Greg Chappell, was submitted to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, according to The Age. Among the signatories were India greats Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev, along with Australia’s Allan Border, Steve Waugh, Ian Chappell, Belinda Clark, and Kim Hughes; England’s Mike Atherton, Nasser Hussain, Mike Brearley, and David Gower; West Indies legend Clive Lloyd; and New Zealand’s John Wright.In the letter, the former captains expressed “profound concern” over reports of Khan’s deteriorating health, particularly a significant decline in vision during his incarceration at Adiala prison in Rawalpindi, where he has been held for over two years on corruption charges. They stressed that someone of his stature deserves humane treatment, medical care from specialists of his choosing, regular family access, and fair legal proceedings without delay.The appeal underscored cricket’s long-standing role in fostering respect beyond rivalry, urging authorities to uphold principles of decency and justice. Gavaskar described the situation as “terrible,” noting their long-standing friendship that predates their on-field contests.Supporters claim Khan has lost 85 per cent vision in his right eye and faces limited access to family and personal doctors. He and his wife, Bushra Bibi, have been jailed since August 2023, and his recent convictions amount to a cumulative 31-year sentence.

Rohit Sharma and Wasim Akram (Image credit: X)

A warm hug between Rohit Sharma and Wasim Akram stole the spotlight in Colombo — and it came amid the ongoing no-handshake row between India and Pakistan. As the two icons embraced and shared a laugh before Sunday’s high-voltage clash, the moment quickly went viral, standing in sharp contrast to the frostiness that has defined on-field protocol between the two teams.Rohit was present at the venue in his capacity as a brand ambassador for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. Ahead of the much-anticipated India vs Pakistan encounter, he spent time around the Indian camp, exchanging smiles, hugs and handshakes with players and members of the support staff. The former captain appeared relaxed, soaking in the build-up to cricket’s biggest rivalry while offering encouragement before the big night.

The highlight, however, was his interaction with Akram. The Indian great and the Pakistan pace legend had the ceremonial duty of walking out with the T20 World Cup trophy. Before stepping onto the field at the R Premadasa Stadium, the two chatted briefly, posed for photographs and embraced warmly — a gesture that triggered mixed reactions online.The hug was particularly striking because it unfolded against the backdrop of India’s continued no-handshake stance with the Pakistan team. At the toss, India captain Suryakumar Yadav once again refrained from the customary greeting with Pakistan skipper Salman Ali Agha, in line with the approach the Indian side has maintained since the Asia Cup. While the policy has been a talking point in recent meetings, Rohit and Akram’s exchange offered a reminder that respect between players transcends contemporary tensions.Amid the charged atmosphere and packed stands bracing for another fierce chapter in the rivalry, the embrace provided a softer image — two legends from opposite sides of the border united by their shared history in the game.Once the match began, though, the warmth gave way to ruthless efficiency from the defending champions. India crushed Pakistan by 61 runs in their Group A encounter, a result that sealed their progression to the Super Eights.HOW INDIA TROUNCED PAKISTANIshan Kishan’s explosive 77 set the platform as India posted 175. The target of 176 always looked steep under pressure, and India’s bowlers ensured it remained that way.Hardik Pandya set the tone with a wicket-maiden opening over, dismissing Sahibzada Farhan for a four-ball duck after inducing a mistimed pull. Jasprit Bumrah then struck twice in quick succession — first deceiving Saim Ayub with a sharp inswinger and then removing Salman Agha with a tame chip to mid-on. At 13/3 inside two overs, Pakistan’s chase was already in tatters.Babar Azam’s dismissal soon after left Pakistan reeling at 34/4. Usman Khan attempted to mount resistance with an enterprising 44, striking boundaries to briefly lift spirits. However, the required rate kept climbing, and India’s spinners tightened the screws.Kuldeep Yadav delivered a crucial, economical spell that built pressure before Axar Patel produced the breakthrough, stumping Usman just as he threatened to rebuild. From there, wickets fell in a procession. Kuldeep removed Mohammad Nawaz, Tilak Varma struck with his very first ball to dismiss Shadab Khan, and Varun Chakaravarthy chipped in with two scalps.Pandya eventually knocked back Usman Tariq’s middle stump to wrap up proceedings as Pakistan were bowled out for 114 in 18 overs — their third-lowest total in T20 World Cup history.

South Africa cricket team (AP)

TimesofIndia.com in New Delhi: It was just past 3:15 PM (local time) here at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Tuesday when the cover on the pitch finally came off, and the curator customarily began the ritual of heavy rolling. South Africa’s preparations for their final Group D match had already gathered pace. Near the Mohinder Amarnath Stand, the Proteas batters sweated through an extended net session, while the fast bowlers loosened up closer to the Bishan Singh Bedi Stand.

Arun Jaitley Stadium pitch

In between lay the surface that will host South Africa’s Wednesday morning fixture against the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a pitch that recently offered pace, bounce, and late turn during UAE’s nail-biting five-wicket win over Canada.

That contest saw Canada limited to 150 despite batting first, with Junaid Siddique claiming a five-wicket haul, before UAE scraped home with two balls to spare.With early movement for seamers and some assistance for spinners later in the day, the surface could again offer a balanced contest, particularly in the morning, when moisture and freshness may suit South Africa’s pace-heavy attack.For Aiden Markram’s side, the hard work is already done. Three wins from three matches so far, including a dramatic double Super Over victory against Afghanistan, have secured their place in the Super Eight. But the Proteas are unlikely to treat their final group game as a formality.“Associate cricket has grown a lot over the last couple of years. They’ve had opportunities on stages like this where they can play. As I’ve said, batting conditions are really good (here), and this T20 format brings teams closer together because one guy on his day can win you the game. So no, I’m not surprised (at their performances in this T20 World Cup),” South Africa’s specialist consultant Albie Morkel told reporters in the pre-match press conference on Tuesday.“The World Cup really starts now. Even though we had a tough group, now you face India, possibly Australia or Zimbabwe, and West Indies in our group. So it’s really tough. It’ll be all good games. Yes, there will be more pressure as you move towards the playoffs. But I feel we’ve got a very experienced group, bowlers and batters.”‘Brevis, Rabada’s form not a concern’South Africa’s group-stage performances have been nothing short of inspiring. Marco Jansen’s career-best 4 for 40 against New Zealand dismantled a formidable batting lineup, while Lungi Ngidi stands joint-second in the list of wicket-takers with eight scalps.“If you look at his T20 record, he (Ngidi) has one of the best records in taking wickets. He’s developed a very deceptive slower ball, which he knows when to use and how to use,” Morkel explained.Kagiso Rabada, however, is still working to find his peak sharpness. In this T20 World Cup, he has accumulated two wickets in three matches, having maintained an economy of nine runs per over.“It’s not a concern. I think that can happen to any bowler at any stage… But he’s still our premier fast bowler, and we’re going to double down on him and back him all the way,” he added.Brevis has yet to live up to the hype. The 22-year-old Protea, who spent considerable time in the nets on Tuesday, has scored just 50 runs in three matches in this World Cup and is without a 30-plus score in his last five T20I innings“There are no chats (with Brevis on his form). We see him as an X-factor player. We feel if you ask him to play a certain way, you take away that X factor, and he’s going to break your heart at some stage, but he’s also going to win you games,” the 44-year-old stated.

Imran Khan (Image credit: AFP)

NEW DELHI: Indian greats Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev are among 14 former international captains who have expressed “deep concern” over the reported decline in the health of jailed cricketer-turned-politician Imran Khan. In a joint appeal, they have called on the Pakistan government to ensure he is provided adequate medical attention and treated with dignity in line with international norms.According to reports, the 1992 World Cup-winning skipper has allegedly lost close to 85 per cent of vision in his right eye due to medical neglect while lodged at Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi.

The group sent a letter titled “Appeal by former International Cricket Captains” to Pakistani authorities, urging fair treatment for Khan. Notably, the signatories do not include a single former Pakistan cricketer.Also read: ‘Treat Imran Khan fairly in jail’: Sunil Gavaskar, Kapil Dev among 14 captains’ appeal to Pakistan government“We, the undersigned former captains of our national cricket teams, write with deep concern regarding the reported treatment and incarceration conditions of Imran Khan, the distinguished former Captain of Pakistan and a legendary figure in world cricket,” the letter said.“Recent reports concerning his health — particularly the alarming deterioration of his vision while in custody — and the conditions of his imprisonment over the past two and a half years have caused us profound concern.“As fellow cricketers who understand the values of fair play, honour, and respect that transcend the boundary rope, we believe that a person of Imran Khan’s stature deserves to be treated with the dignity and basic human consideration befitting a former national leader and a global sporting icon.”The appeal was also signed by Michael Atherton, Allan Border, Michael Brearley, Greg Chappell, Ian Chappell, Belinda Clark, David Gower, Kim Hughes, Nasser Hussain, Clive Lloyd, Steve Waugh and John Wright.

In 2023, Khan, who also served as Pakistan’s Prime Minister, was handed a 14-year prison sentence in a corruption case.The former captains called for comprehensive medical care, transparent legal proceedings and humane conditions for the 73-year-old.“We respectfully urge the Government of Pakistan to ensure that Imran Khan receives: Immediate, adequate and ongoing medical attention from qualified specialists of his choosing to address his reported health issues.“Humane and dignified conditions of detention in line with international standards, Including regular visits by close family members. Fair and transparent access to legal processes without undue delay or hindrance.“Cricket has long been a bridge between nations. Our shared history on the field reminds us that rivalry ends when the stumps are drawn-and respect endures. Imran Khan embodied that spirit throughout his career.”The letter further urged authorities to uphold the principles of “decency and justice”.“This appeal is made in the spirit of sportsmanship and common humanity, without prejudice to any legal proceedings.”It also highlighted Khan’s legacy both as a cricketer and a political leader.“Imran Khan’s contributions to the game are universally admired. As captain, he led Pakistan to their historic 1992 Cricket World Cup victory a triumph built on skill, resilience, leadership, and sportsmanship that inspired generations across borders.“Many of us competed against him, shared the field with him, or grew up idolizing his all-round brilliance, charisma, and competitive spirit. He remains one of the finest all-rounders and captains the sport has ever seen, earning respect from players, fans, and administrators alike.“Beyond cricket, Imran Khan served as Prime Minister of Pakistan, leading his nation during a challenging period. Regardless of political perspectives, he holds the honour of having been democratically elected to the highest office in his country.”

India’s Ishan Kishan (ANI Photo)

Ishan Kishan has emerged as India’s standout performer with the bat in the ongoing T20 World Cup, playing a pivotal role in the team’s smooth progression to the Super 8s. The left-hander has struck consecutive half-centuries, underlining a dramatic resurgence in his career. Just six months ago, he was out of the national reckoning and far from selection discussions. Since making his return, however, Kishan has made every opportunity count.His defining contribution came in the high-pressure clash against Pakistan. On a challenging surface where stroke-making was far from easy, Kishan delivered a commanding 77 off 40 balls, laced with 10 fours and three sixes. His innings proved decisive, allowing India to seize control at a crucial juncture of the tournament.

Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar attributed the knock to Kishan’s fearless mindset and clearly defined role at the top of the order.“To bat like Ishan Kishan, the way he did against Pakistan, I believe there have to be a couple of factors that have to be your advantage. Number one, he is batting at the top of the order. He has the backing of the team to go out and play by taking a lot of risks, which, at the moment, are coming off,” Bangar said on Star Sports.Bangar emphasised that Kishan’s success is rooted in form and method rather than reckless strokeplay.“Number two, he is the man in form, and T20 cricket is basically for form players. So he is maximising whatever form that he has. There is a method in which he dominated. It isn’t that he was targeting each and every bowler,” Bangar observed.He further analysed the innings, noting how Kishan strategically attacked specific bowlers.“Even till the fourth over, he first attacked Shaheen Shah Afridi in the second over, then gave respect to the off-spinners, and when the leg-spinners came, he took them to the cleaners. So all in all, a very calculative innings. I must say that even though he was getting the majority of the strike, he was farming the strike pretty well and made those 77 possible out of the 88 runs that were there on the scoreboard,” he elaborated.

Nepal’s Dipendra Singh Airee with batting partner Gulshan Jha (AP Photo/Rafiq Maqbool)

Kushal Bhurtel’s blazing start and Dipendra Singh Airee’s unbeaten half-century powered Nepal to a morale-boosting seven-wicket victory over Scotland, ending a 12-year-long T20 World Cup winless streak in a dead-rubber Group C clash at the Wankhede Stadium on Tuesday. Nepal, who had last tasted World Cup success in 2014 against Afghanistan and the Netherlands, chased down Scotland’s 171 with 19.2 overs to spare. Airee’s rapid 50 off 23 balls, featuring three sixes and four fours, anchored the chase, while Bhurtel’s aggressive 43 laid the platform. Gulsan Jha contributed an unbeaten 24, including two towering sixes, sharing an unbroken 73-run partnership for the fourth wicket that sealed the result.

Bhurtel had a narrow escape early on when Brad Currie spilled a return catch, and the opener capitalised immediately with a massive six over long-on. Nepal’s innings started cautiously under pressure, but Aasif Sheikh (33) and Bhurtel brought momentum with multiple boundaries, including sixes over fine leg and off Mark Watt. Scottish spinners later tightened the screws, claiming Bhurtel, Aasif, and skipper Rohit Paudel (16), but Airee’s late assault and Jha’s finishing touches ensured a win with four balls remaining. Earlier, Michael Jones carried Scotland to a competitive 170/7 with a 71-run blitz, featuring eight fours and three sixes. His 80-run opening stand with George Munsey was the backbone of the innings, though the rest of the batters failed to convert starts. Munsey managed 27 off 29 balls, falling frustrated to Sundeep Jora’s diving catch at long-on. Scotland suffered further setbacks with fielding lapses, including a dropped skier by Jora off McMullen, before Sompal Kami (3/25) cleaned up Jones with a brilliant one-handed return catch, wrapping up Scotland’s innings. In the end, Nepal signed off their World Cup campaign on a high note, delighting over 19,000 fans at the Wankhede with a dominant performance.

awai Mansingh Stadium (BCCI Photo)

JAIPUR: The Rajasthan Royals are standing firm on prioritising fan safety ahead of IPL 2026 and will only proceed with hosting home matches at Sawai Mansingh Stadium (SMS) here only if the Rajasthan government provides an indemnity waiver. This formal assurance would protect the franchise from liability in the event of any untoward incident, accident or loss of life during their home games, ensuring accountability remains with the venue authorities for any pre-existing safety shortcomings beyond the Royals’ control.This demand stems directly from a comprehensive 700-page independent audit commissioned by the Royals and conducted by Tata Projects, which assessed the stadium’s condition and identified serious deficiencies.

The Rajasthan State Sports Council (RSSC) has largely dismissed most of the audit’s safety concerns, maintaining after its own review that issues are minor and fixable with routine repairs, and that the stadium is fully prepared for IPL duty.A source in the know said that in light of the tragic crowd crush outside Bengaluru’s M Chinnaswamy Stadium in June last year, it is entirely reasonable for the Royals to exercise extreme caution. “It’s obvious to refuse to overlook potential risks at their home venue in the wake of such a recent and devastating incident,” the source said.The BCCI has faced venue uncertainties for both the Royals and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) ahead of IPL 2026. However, while defending champions RCB have now received formal clearance from the Karnataka government to host their matches at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Royals continue to be locked in a standoff over their Jaipur base.A BCCI source has underscored ongoing issues at SMS Stadium, calling it ‘significantly lagging behind all other IPL venues in terms of modern facilities, overall fan experience and essential amenities’.The source added that RSSC received a one-time dispensation to host matches in 2024 due to the absence of a functional Rajasthan Cricket Association (RCA), with this extended for 2025, but this cannot become a permanent arrangement. “It’s the franchise, the state cricket body, and the IPL Governing Council that collectively organise and take responsibility for IPL matches. They need to recognise this reality,” the source added.