Sports

New Delhi: India’s star opener and World Cup-winning women’s cricketer Smriti Mandhana opened up for the first time following the cancellation of her wedding. Speaking at the Amazon Sambhav Summit, Mandhana reflected on her 12-year cricket journey, revealing that the sport has always been her top priority and the Team India jersey remains her biggest motivation. Passion for the Jersey and the Dream of Being a World Champion Making her international debut in 2013, Mandhana said, "I don’t think anything has been bigger for me than cricket. Wearing the India jersey is the ultimate motivation. No matter what challenges you face, it makes you forget everything else." Recalling her childhood dreams, she added, "My passion for batting has always been there… All I ever wanted was to be recog...

Mumbai: The Indian Street Premier League (ISPL) Season 3 player auction witnessed a blockbuster spending spree, with franchises collectively shelling out nearly ₹10 crore on 144 players. The auction, held on Tuesday in Mumbai, set new records in the T10 cricket league’s history. Vijay Pavle Steals the Spotlight Vijay Pavle emerged as the headline act, bought by defending champions Majhi Mumbai for ₹32.50 lakh, making him the highest-priced player in the league’s history. The West Zone star all-rounder returns to his familiar territory after leading Mumbai to the title in the previous season. Following him, West Zone teammate Ketan Mhathre was retained by Chennai Singams using the Right-to-Match card for ₹26.40 lakh, making him the day’s second most expensive player. New Teams a...

On this day in cricket history, 10 December 2022, Indian cricket witnessed a remarkable feat as Ishan Kishan stepped in to replace the injured Rohit Sharma in the final ODI against Bangladesh and produced a record-breaking performance. Rohit Sharma Sidelined Rohit Sharma, famously known as the “Hitman” and one of only three players in ODI history to score three double centuries, was ruled unfit due to injury ahead of the Chattogram match. His absence placed enormous pressure on the Indian team and the player stepping in to fill his shoes. With India already having lost the first two ODIs of the series, expectations were high but the challenge was immense for the replacement opener. Captain KL Rahul promoted Ishan Kishan to open the innings in Rohit’s place. Ishan Kishan Writes ...

In a surprising development ahead of the third Ashes Test, Australia has announced its 15-member squad against England, with regular captain Pat Cummins returning after missing the first two matches due to a back issue. Cummins, who led Australia to dominant victories in Perth and Brisbane, will resume his leadership role from December 17 at the Adelaide Oval. Cummins Back in the Fold Pat Cummins had been sidelined with a back problem during Australia’s first two Tests. In his absence, Australia won both matches convincingly, building a 2-0 series lead. Head coach Andrew McDonald expressed confidence in Cummins, stating, “We believe he is as ready as possible. Net practice has sharpened his skills, and physically, he is ready to take the field. If all goes well next week, I expect hi...

The 19th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2026) will kick off without several star players who have left an indelible mark on the tournament over the years. With the mini-auction scheduled on 16 December at Etihad Arena, Abu Dhabi, many veterans have decided to skip the IPL, surprising fans and altering team strategies for the upcoming season. Moeen Ali Chooses PSL Former England all-rounder Moeen Ali will not feature in IPL 2026, opting instead to play in the Pakistan Super League (PSL). Moeen announced his decision on social media, leaving cricket enthusiasts curious about his performance in the PSL. In the 2025 IPL season, he represented KKR, scoring 1167 runs and taking 41 wickets in 73 matches, with a strike rate of 139.76 and an economy of 7.22. Faf du Plessis to Pri...

Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya starred in India’s commanding 101-run victory over South Africa in the first T20I at Barabati Stadium, Cuttack, and delivered a candid message about his mindset and commitment to the team. A Stellar Comeback Pandya, returning from an injury sustained during the Asia Cup 2025 against Sri Lanka, had been sidelined for several months. After showcasing excellent form in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, he earned his spot in the T20 series against South Africa. Against South Africa, Pandya smashed a quick-fire 59 not out off 28 balls, featuring 6 fours and 4 sixes, while also contributing with the ball by bowling 2 overs for just 16 runs and picking up 1 wicket. His all-round performance earned him the Player of the Match award. On His Role and Mindset ...

India thrashed South Africa by 101 runs in the first T20I of the five-match series at Cuttack, but the match was not without controversy. The spotlight fell on a disputed decision against South Africa’s Dewald Brevis, raising debates among fans and experts alike. The Controversial Moment The incident occurred on the second ball of the 10th over. Jasprit Bumrah bowled a fast delivery targeting the off-stump, and Brevis attempted to play it in the air. Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav took a sharp catch at extra cover, and the on-field umpire referred the decision to the third umpire. Replays suggested that Bumrah might have overstepped the crease, potentially making the delivery a no-ball. However, the third umpire ruled the ball legitimate, giving Brevis out. At the time of his dis...

While Team India continues to dominate in T20 cricket, captain Suryakumar Yadav’s batting woes have emerged as a major concern ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup. Despite India’s 101-run demolition of South Africa in the series opener at Cuttack, the veteran’s form remains far from reassuring. Suryakumar’s Disappointing Start in Cuttack Chasing a solid platform in the first T20I, Yadav briefly showed intent with a boundary and a six off Lungi Ngidi in the third over. However, on the fourth ball of the over, he was caught by South Africa captain Aiden Markram at long-on, finishing with 12 runs from 11 balls. His struggle continues a troubling trend for the Indian skipper. A Year of Struggle The calendar year 2025 has been particularly difficult for Yadav. No fifties so far: Hig...

India began their five-match T20I series against South Africa with a massive 101-run victory at Cuttack’s Barabati Stadium, registering their second-largest winning margin in T20I history. All-rounder Hardik Pandya starred with both bat and ball, yet concerns remain for Team India as some key players in the top order struggle to find form. Top-Order Woes Continue The match saw two major setbacks for India. Shubman Gill’s Struggle: Returning from injury, opening batsman Shubman Gill managed only 4 runs, falling to Lungi Ngidi. With preparations underway for the 2026 domestic T20 World Cup, Gill’s form is crucial for India’s top-order stability. Suryakumar Yadav’s Low Score: Captain Suryakumar Yadav, who has been battling form issues, scored only 12 runs. While his leadership wa...

India began their five-match T20I series against South Africa with a resounding 101-run victory at Barabati Stadium, Cuttack. Batting first after losing the toss, India posted 176 runs, and the South African innings collapsed at 74 all out in just 12.3 overs. Here’s a look at the five standout performers who drove India’s emphatic win. 1. Hardik Pandya – Player of the Match Hardik Pandya was the star of the show, excelling with both bat and ball. He scored a quick 59* off 28 balls, smashing 6 fours and 4 sixes, and also claimed 1 crucial wicket. His all-round brilliance earned him the Player of the Match award. 2. Axar Patel – All-Round Impact Axar Patel contributed with both disciplines. He scored 23 runs with the bat and took 2 wickets, playing a key role in dismantling the S...