📢Ish Sodhi picks all-time T20 XI, ignores MS Dhoni and Hardik Pandya [Exclusive]
Ish Sodhi
New Zealand's veteran leg-spinner Ish Sodhi recently picked his all-time T20 XI during an exclusive interaction with CricTracker. Sodhi has played 21 Tests, 54 ODIs, and 142 T20Is so far for the Black Caps. He is also an experienced campaigner when it comes to T20 cricket.
The 33-year-old has played 314 T20s, picked up 335 wickets at an average of 24.89 and a strike rate of 18.70. Despite being a wrist spinner, his economy rate is a decent 7.95. During his impressive career, Sodhi has played with and against some of the biggest players in the shortest format of the game.
He picked Chris Gayle and Rohit Sharma as his openers in the T20 format. The former is second on the list of leading run-getters in T20 cricket. Rohit, on the other hand, led India to the T20 World Cup title in 2024 and is also a five-time IPL-winning skipper. He also has the most runs by an Indian cricketer in T20I cricket.
Good friends, AB de Villiers and Virat Kohli , took the No. 3 and No. 4 spots, respectively, in Sodhi's line-up. De Villiers is a former South African captain and a Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) legend. Meanwhile, Kohli needs no introduction as he is the highest run-getter in the IPL and second highest for India in T20Is.
Kieron Pollard, who recently surpassed Gayle's record to become the leading run-getter in T20 cricket, grabbed the No. 5 spot. The 39-year-old might have retired from international cricket, but he is firing on all cylinders in franchise leagues around the world.
Jos Buttler and Andre Russell were picked for the finisher's role at No. 6 and 7, respectively. While Buttler has the second-most centuries in the IPL, Russell is a two-time IPL Most Valuable Player (MVP) award winner.
In the spin-bowling department, there were no surprises whatsoever. Sodhi picked mystery spinner Sunil Narine at No. 8 and the talismanic leg-spinner Rashid khan at No. 9. Both of them have made batters dance to their tunes in international cricket as well as in franchise leagues.
Lastly, Sodhi picked Jasprit Bumrah and Josh Hazlewood as his two frontline pacers. Bumrah won the Player of the Tournament award when India won the 2024 T20 World Cup under Rohit's captaincy. The former is also a multiple-time IPL winner. Josh Hazlewood, on the other hand, played crucial roles in the IPL in the last two seasons, as he helped the Royal Challengers Bengaluru become back-to-back champions.
Ish Sodhi's All-time T20 XI:
Chris Gayle, Rohit Sharma, AB de Villiers, Virat Kohli, Kieron Pollard, Jos Buttler, Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Rashid Khan Jasprit Bumrah, Josh Hazlewood.
Ish Sodhi
New Zealand's veteran leg-spinner Ish Sodhi recently picked his all-time T20 XI during an exclusive interaction with CricTracker. Sodhi has played 21 Tests, 54 ODIs, and 142 T20Is so far for the Black Caps. He is also an experienced campaigner when it comes to T20 cricket.
The 33-year-old has played 314 T20s, picked up 335 wickets at an average of 24.89 and a strike rate of 18.70. Despite being a wrist spinner, his economy rate is a decent 7.95. During his impressive career, Sodhi has played with and against some of the biggest players in the shortest format of the game.
He picked Chris Gayle and Rohit Sharma as his openers in the T20 format. The former is second on the list of leading run-getters in T20 cricket. Rohit, on the other hand, led India to the T20 World Cup title in 2024 and is also a five-time IPL-winning skipper. He also has the most runs by an Indian cricketer in T20I cricket.
Good friends, AB de Villiers and Virat Kohli , took the No. 3 and No. 4 spots, respectively, in Sodhi's line-up. De Villiers is a former South African captain and a Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) legend. Meanwhile, Kohli needs no introduction as he is the highest run-getter in the IPL and second highest for India in T20Is.
Kieron Pollard, who recently surpassed Gayle's record to become the leading run-getter in T20 cricket, grabbed the No. 5 spot. The 39-year-old might have retired from international cricket, but he is firing on all cylinders in franchise leagues around the world.
Jos Buttler and Andre Russell were picked for the finisher's role at No. 6 and 7, respectively. While Buttler has the second-most centuries in the IPL, Russell is a two-time IPL Most Valuable Player (MVP) award winner.
In the spin-bowling department, there were no surprises whatsoever. Sodhi picked mystery spinner Sunil Narine at No. 8 and the talismanic leg-spinner Rashid khan at No. 9. Both of them have made batters dance to their tunes in international cricket as well as in franchise leagues.
Lastly, Sodhi picked Jasprit Bumrah and Josh Hazlewood as his two frontline pacers. Bumrah won the Player of the Tournament award when India won the 2024 T20 World Cup under Rohit's captaincy. The former is also a multiple-time IPL winner. Josh Hazlewood, on the other hand, played crucial roles in the IPL in the last two seasons, as he helped the Royal Challengers Bengaluru become back-to-back champions.
Ish Sodhi's All-time T20 XI:
Chris Gayle, Rohit Sharma, AB de Villiers, Virat Kohli, Kieron Pollard, Jos Buttler, Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Rashid Khan Jasprit Bumrah, Josh Hazlewood.
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Women’s T20 World Cup 2026: ‘Tough to miss a global event’ - Mithali Raj sympathises with Shreyanka Patil
“It is tough for any player to get injured and then miss out on a global event like the World Cup. As far as the Indian team is concerned, they will now have to go to Plan B or Plan C," said Mithali.
“It is tough for any player to get injured and then miss out on a global event like the World Cup. As far as the Indian team is concerned, they will now have to go to Plan B or Plan C," said Mithali.
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Women’s T20 World Cup 2026: ‘India’s trump card has to be Richa Ghosh’ - Mithali Raj backs star finisher
"As for India's trump card, it has to be Richa Ghosh. We saw her score a quickfire 34 in the first game, which helped India get to that 170-run mark," said Mithali.
"As for India's trump card, it has to be Richa Ghosh. We saw her score a quickfire 34 in the first game, which helped India get to that 170-run mark," said Mithali.
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📢Women’s T20 World Cup 2026: ‘India’s trump card has to be Richa Ghosh’ - Mithali Raj backs star finisher
Women’s T20 World Cup 2026: ‘India’s trump card has to be Richa Ghosh’ - Mithali Raj backs star finisher (Photo by Stuart Leggett/MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Former India captain Mithali Raj shared her views on India's middle-order concerns and the possibility of including Renuka Singh Thakur in the upcoming matches. According to Mithali, the frequent loss of wickets in the middle overs has increased the pressure on Richa Ghosh, who has often been left to stabilise the innings and finish games.
Mithali also explained why Renuka was left out of India's clash against Pakistan. She felt that the team management opted against selecting the pacer because she was not fully in rhythm. However, Mithali believes Renuka remains a strong option and could return to the playing XI if conditions favour seam bowling.
"When we look at India's batting unit, especially the middle order, we've been losing a couple of wickets in quick succession, which puts a lot of pressure on the incoming batters. We haven't seen the kind of partnerships we'd expect from the No. 3, 4 and 5 batters, and that leaves a lot for Richa Ghosh to do when she comes in,” said Mithali on JioStar.
“She has done that role brilliantly, but even a 30-run partnership in the middle overs would give her a much better platform to launch from. As for Renuka, if India chose not to play her against Pakistan, it could indicate that the support staff feel she isn't quite in the rhythm they want for this World Cup. That said, if the pitch offers pace and bounce, like we saw in Leeds, there's no harm in going with three seamers,” she added.
Raj praised Jemimah Rodrigues for her improved mindset and approach, noting that the batter looked far more composed during India's second game of the tournament. Mithali highlighted Jemimah's maturity at the crease and felt her calmness played a key role in the innings. She also lauded Richa, calling her India's trump card. Mithali emphasised that having a power-hitter like Richa is essential in the format.
"Jemimah's form improved from the first game to the second, especially in terms of her mindset and approach. I felt she looked a bit hurried in the first game against Pakistan, but appeared much more composed in the second. There are always nerves in the opening game of a World Cup, regardless of how many international matches a player has played,” said Mithali.
“Hopefully, those nerves are settled now and she can get back to the run-scoring form we have come to expect from her. As for India's trump card, it has to be Richa Ghosh. We saw her score a quickfire 34 in the first game, which helped India get to that 170-run mark. In this format, when you need a power-hitter in the last four or five overs, Richa can be the difference for India. Those extra 30-40 runs she can add at the back end of an innings will be crucial,” she added.
Raj expressed hope that Smriti Mandhana will go on to break the record she is chasing, while praising the opener's consistency and longevity at the highest level. Mithali highlighted how both Mandhana and Deepti Sharma have carried their rich vein of form into the World Cup, playing crucial roles for the team.
"I don't know when she will break that record, but I am certain she will. The good thing is that Indian players' records are being broken by their compatriots, which means the record remains with India. That reflects the consistency and longevity of players like Smriti and Deepti. I hope both continue their fine form because their experience will be vital for India in this T20 World Cup and at the same time, they continue to inspire the younger players and help them grow alongside them, both on and off the field,” Mithali concluded.
Women’s T20 World Cup 2026: ‘India’s trump card has to be Richa Ghosh’ - Mithali Raj backs star finisher (Photo by Stuart Leggett/MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Former India captain Mithali Raj shared her views on India's middle-order concerns and the possibility of including Renuka Singh Thakur in the upcoming matches. According to Mithali, the frequent loss of wickets in the middle overs has increased the pressure on Richa Ghosh, who has often been left to stabilise the innings and finish games.
Mithali also explained why Renuka was left out of India's clash against Pakistan. She felt that the team management opted against selecting the pacer because she was not fully in rhythm. However, Mithali believes Renuka remains a strong option and could return to the playing XI if conditions favour seam bowling.
"When we look at India's batting unit, especially the middle order, we've been losing a couple of wickets in quick succession, which puts a lot of pressure on the incoming batters. We haven't seen the kind of partnerships we'd expect from the No. 3, 4 and 5 batters, and that leaves a lot for Richa Ghosh to do when she comes in,” said Mithali on JioStar.
“She has done that role brilliantly, but even a 30-run partnership in the middle overs would give her a much better platform to launch from. As for Renuka, if India chose not to play her against Pakistan, it could indicate that the support staff feel she isn't quite in the rhythm they want for this World Cup. That said, if the pitch offers pace and bounce, like we saw in Leeds, there's no harm in going with three seamers,” she added.
Raj praised Jemimah Rodrigues for her improved mindset and approach, noting that the batter looked far more composed during India's second game of the tournament. Mithali highlighted Jemimah's maturity at the crease and felt her calmness played a key role in the innings. She also lauded Richa, calling her India's trump card. Mithali emphasised that having a power-hitter like Richa is essential in the format.
"Jemimah's form improved from the first game to the second, especially in terms of her mindset and approach. I felt she looked a bit hurried in the first game against Pakistan, but appeared much more composed in the second. There are always nerves in the opening game of a World Cup, regardless of how many international matches a player has played,” said Mithali.
“Hopefully, those nerves are settled now and she can get back to the run-scoring form we have come to expect from her. As for India's trump card, it has to be Richa Ghosh. We saw her score a quickfire 34 in the first game, which helped India get to that 170-run mark. In this format, when you need a power-hitter in the last four or five overs, Richa can be the difference for India. Those extra 30-40 runs she can add at the back end of an innings will be crucial,” she added.
Raj expressed hope that Smriti Mandhana will go on to break the record she is chasing, while praising the opener's consistency and longevity at the highest level. Mithali highlighted how both Mandhana and Deepti Sharma have carried their rich vein of form into the World Cup, playing crucial roles for the team.
"I don't know when she will break that record, but I am certain she will. The good thing is that Indian players' records are being broken by their compatriots, which means the record remains with India. That reflects the consistency and longevity of players like Smriti and Deepti. I hope both continue their fine form because their experience will be vital for India in this T20 World Cup and at the same time, they continue to inspire the younger players and help them grow alongside them, both on and off the field,” Mithali concluded.
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📢Women’s T20 World Cup 2026: ‘Tough to miss a global event’ - Mithali Raj sympathises with Shreyanka Patil
Women’s T20 World Cup 2026: ‘Tough to miss a global event’ - Mithali Raj sympathises with Shreyanka Patil (Photo by Matthew Lewis-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)
Former India captain Mithali Raj believes Shreyanka Patil's injury will be a significant setback, both for the player personally and from the team's perspective. Shreyanka suffered a right ankle injury during India's match against Netherlands Women after twisting her ankle while chasing the ball.
Mithali noted that missing a major global tournament would be difficult for Shreyanka and expressed sympathy for the young all-rounder. She also backed Radha Yadav as the ideal replacement, citing her experience and ability to strengthen the team's spin-bowling department in Shreyanka's absence.
"Shreyanka's injury will definitely be a setback because the support staff would have had strategies and tactics in place for this World Cup, keeping her in mind. She, too, would have been looking forward to the tournament, especially after working her way back from an injury,” said Mithali on JioStar.
“It is tough for any player to get injured and then miss out on a global event like the World Cup. As far as the Indian team is concerned, they will now have to go to Plan B or Plan C. They do have Radha Yadav in their ranks, and India's strength has traditionally been its spin attack. Radha did reasonably well in the ODI World Cup and is already part of the squad. If India need a third spinner as an immediate replacement, she could step into Shreyanka's role,” she added.
Mithali believes Australia Women and India Women are the favorites to qualify from Group A for the semi-finals. From Group B, she expects England Women to progress comfortably. Mithali also admitted that she has little hope of New Zealand Women reaching the knockout stage after their two defeats in the tournament. Instead, she backed West Indies Women to join England as the second semi-finalist from Group B.
"Since Australia and India have already won two games each, and South Africa have lost to Australia, India have a better chance to qualify even though they are yet to face South Africa. I expect Australia and India to get into the knockouts from Group A. From the other group, England look the most likely team to qualify, having started strongly with two wins from two games,” said Mithali.
“The second team is a bit difficult to predict because a few teams are still in contention. West Indies, Sri Lanka and New Zealand are all in the mix, although New Zealand's chances have gone down with two defeats already. If I had to pick one, I would go with the West Indies,” she added.
Women’s T20 World Cup 2026: ‘Tough to miss a global event’ - Mithali Raj sympathises with Shreyanka Patil (Photo by Matthew Lewis-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)
Former India captain Mithali Raj believes Shreyanka Patil's injury will be a significant setback, both for the player personally and from the team's perspective. Shreyanka suffered a right ankle injury during India's match against Netherlands Women after twisting her ankle while chasing the ball.
Mithali noted that missing a major global tournament would be difficult for Shreyanka and expressed sympathy for the young all-rounder. She also backed Radha Yadav as the ideal replacement, citing her experience and ability to strengthen the team's spin-bowling department in Shreyanka's absence.
"Shreyanka's injury will definitely be a setback because the support staff would have had strategies and tactics in place for this World Cup, keeping her in mind. She, too, would have been looking forward to the tournament, especially after working her way back from an injury,” said Mithali on JioStar.
“It is tough for any player to get injured and then miss out on a global event like the World Cup. As far as the Indian team is concerned, they will now have to go to Plan B or Plan C. They do have Radha Yadav in their ranks, and India's strength has traditionally been its spin attack. Radha did reasonably well in the ODI World Cup and is already part of the squad. If India need a third spinner as an immediate replacement, she could step into Shreyanka's role,” she added.
Mithali believes Australia Women and India Women are the favorites to qualify from Group A for the semi-finals. From Group B, she expects England Women to progress comfortably. Mithali also admitted that she has little hope of New Zealand Women reaching the knockout stage after their two defeats in the tournament. Instead, she backed West Indies Women to join England as the second semi-finalist from Group B.
"Since Australia and India have already won two games each, and South Africa have lost to Australia, India have a better chance to qualify even though they are yet to face South Africa. I expect Australia and India to get into the knockouts from Group A. From the other group, England look the most likely team to qualify, having started strongly with two wins from two games,” said Mithali.
“The second team is a bit difficult to predict because a few teams are still in contention. West Indies, Sri Lanka and New Zealand are all in the mix, although New Zealand's chances have gone down with two defeats already. If I had to pick one, I would go with the West Indies,” she added.
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ENG vs NZ 2026: Ben Stokes, Gus Atkinson included in third Test squad after conclusion of ECB investigation
The third Test will begin on June 25 at Trent Bridge, Nottingham.
The third Test will begin on June 25 at Trent Bridge, Nottingham.
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📢ENG vs NZ 2026: Ben Stokes, Gus Atkinson included in third Test squad after conclusion of ECB investigation
ENG vs NZ 2026: Ben Stokes, Gus Atkinson included in third Test squad after conclusion of ECB investigation (Photo source: ECB)
Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson have been included in England's squad for the third and final Test against New Zealand after the conclusion of the England and Wales Cricket Board's (ECB) disciplinary hearing into their conduct during the early hours of June 8, following the Lord's Test. The pair had previously been omitted from the squad for the second Test at The Oval, which England lost under the captaincy of Joe Root.
Stokes and Atkinson were found guilty of breaching the team curfew. British media reports later revealed that Atkinson was involved in an incident at a nightclub shortly after the Lord's Test. Further details indicated that a rugby academy player attempted to punch Atkinson but instead struck a security staff member, who required stitches.
As a result, the ECB launched an investigation into the matter, leading to the duo's exclusion from the squad for the Oval Test. The investigation has now concluded and determined that Stokes was not present at the nightclub when the incident involving Atkinson took place.
“Stokes and Atkinson were found to have breached specific contractual obligations that require England players to at all times maintain the highest standards of conduct and act in the best interests of England cricket,” the ECB said in an official statement.
“It was also concluded that no blame should be attached to the players for violent conduct at the nightclub. Stokes was not involved in the altercation and did not witness either incident. The evidence the ECB has seen demonstrates that Atkinson was the victim of unprovoked attacks and did not retaliate on either occasion,” the statement added.
While England were taking on New Zealand in the second Test at The Oval, Stokes turned out for Durham in a County Championship fixture. The three-match series is currently level at 1-1 after New Zealand secured a commanding 253-run victory in the second Test on Sunday, setting up a decisive final match.
England's squad for third Test:
Ben Stokes (C), Rehan Ahmed, Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Shoaib Bashir, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Jordan Cox, Ben Duckett, Matthew Fisher, Emilio Gay, Ollie Robinson, Joe Root, Jamie Smith, Josh Tongue
ENG vs NZ 2026: Ben Stokes, Gus Atkinson included in third Test squad after conclusion of ECB investigation (Photo source: ECB)
Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson have been included in England's squad for the third and final Test against New Zealand after the conclusion of the England and Wales Cricket Board's (ECB) disciplinary hearing into their conduct during the early hours of June 8, following the Lord's Test. The pair had previously been omitted from the squad for the second Test at The Oval, which England lost under the captaincy of Joe Root.
Stokes and Atkinson were found guilty of breaching the team curfew. British media reports later revealed that Atkinson was involved in an incident at a nightclub shortly after the Lord's Test. Further details indicated that a rugby academy player attempted to punch Atkinson but instead struck a security staff member, who required stitches.
As a result, the ECB launched an investigation into the matter, leading to the duo's exclusion from the squad for the Oval Test. The investigation has now concluded and determined that Stokes was not present at the nightclub when the incident involving Atkinson took place.
“Stokes and Atkinson were found to have breached specific contractual obligations that require England players to at all times maintain the highest standards of conduct and act in the best interests of England cricket,” the ECB said in an official statement.
“It was also concluded that no blame should be attached to the players for violent conduct at the nightclub. Stokes was not involved in the altercation and did not witness either incident. The evidence the ECB has seen demonstrates that Atkinson was the victim of unprovoked attacks and did not retaliate on either occasion,” the statement added.
While England were taking on New Zealand in the second Test at The Oval, Stokes turned out for Durham in a County Championship fixture. The three-match series is currently level at 1-1 after New Zealand secured a commanding 253-run victory in the second Test on Sunday, setting up a decisive final match.
England's squad for third Test:
Ben Stokes (C), Rehan Ahmed, Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Shoaib Bashir, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Jordan Cox, Ben Duckett, Matthew Fisher, Emilio Gay, Ollie Robinson, Joe Root, Jamie Smith, Josh Tongue
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Women's T20 World Cup 2026: SA W vs IND W Today's Match Highlights: Unmissable video recap, POTM, match analysis, stats and more
South Africa Women won by six wickets.
South Africa Women won by six wickets.
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📢Women's T20 World Cup 2026: SA W vs IND W Today's Match Highlights: Unmissable video recap, POTM, match analysis, stats and more
Women's T20 World Cup 2026: SA W vs IND W Today's Match Highlights: Unmissable video recap, POTM, match analysis, stats and more (Source: Matthew Lewis-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)
How did Match 18 of the Women's T20 World Cup 2026 go between South Africa Women and India Women?
South Africa Women defeated India Women by six wickets in Match No. 18 of the Women's T20 World Cup 2026 at Manchester on June 21. Opting to bat first, India posted 158/7 in their allotted 20 overs, with Shafali Verma top-scoring with 31 runs. For South Africa, Marizanne Kapp and Shabnim Ismail starred with the ball, picking up two wickets apiece.
In reply, South Africa chased down the target with five balls to spare, thanks largely to an unbeaten half-century from Kapp. Despite India's defeat, Shree Charani impressed with the ball, finishing as the standout bowler for her side with three wickets.
Best Batting Performance of the Match: Marizanne Kapp
Marizanne Kapp was the standout batter of the match, playing a match-winning unbeaten knock of 81 runs off just 45 deliveries. Her innings featured seven fours and four sixes and came at an impressive strike rate of 180.00. Kapp also shared a crucial 97-run partnership with Tazmin Brits for the third wicket, with the duo adding the runs in just 63 balls to steer South Africa towards victory.
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Best Bowling Performance of the Match: Shree Charani
Left-arm spinner Shree Charani was the standout bowler of the match, delivering an impressive spell of 3/24 in her four overs, including a maiden. She provided crucial breakthroughs for India by dismissing South Africa captain Laura Wolvaardt, Annerie Dercksen, and Nadine de Klerk, finishing as her side's most effective bowler despite the defeat.
Pressure. Precision. Perfection. 💥
Sree Charani produces a stunning double-wicket maiden as Team India tighten their grip on the game.
ICC Women's #T20WorldCup 2026 | #INDvSA | LIVE NOW 👉https://t.co/LwG4gG8UfK pic.twitter.com/It3Vky0q5R
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) June 21, 2026
Who won the Player of the Match award?
Marizanne Kapp was named Player of the Match for her outstanding all-round performance. The South African star played a match-winning unbeaten knock of 81 runs off 45 balls and also made a significant impact with the ball, claiming two wickets.
When is the next match?
South Africa Women will play their next game against Netherlands Women on Thursday, June 25 while India Women have their next game lined up against the Bangladesh Women on June 25. Both games will happen at Manchester
Women's T20 World Cup 2026: SA W vs IND W Today's Match Highlights: Unmissable video recap, POTM, match analysis, stats and more (Source: Matthew Lewis-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)
How did Match 18 of the Women's T20 World Cup 2026 go between South Africa Women and India Women?
South Africa Women defeated India Women by six wickets in Match No. 18 of the Women's T20 World Cup 2026 at Manchester on June 21. Opting to bat first, India posted 158/7 in their allotted 20 overs, with Shafali Verma top-scoring with 31 runs. For South Africa, Marizanne Kapp and Shabnim Ismail starred with the ball, picking up two wickets apiece.
In reply, South Africa chased down the target with five balls to spare, thanks largely to an unbeaten half-century from Kapp. Despite India's defeat, Shree Charani impressed with the ball, finishing as the standout bowler for her side with three wickets.
Best Batting Performance of the Match: Marizanne Kapp
Marizanne Kapp was the standout batter of the match, playing a match-winning unbeaten knock of 81 runs off just 45 deliveries. Her innings featured seven fours and four sixes and came at an impressive strike rate of 180.00. Kapp also shared a crucial 97-run partnership with Tazmin Brits for the third wicket, with the duo adding the runs in just 63 balls to steer South Africa towards victory.
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A post shared by ICC (@icc)
Best Bowling Performance of the Match: Shree Charani
Left-arm spinner Shree Charani was the standout bowler of the match, delivering an impressive spell of 3/24 in her four overs, including a maiden. She provided crucial breakthroughs for India by dismissing South Africa captain Laura Wolvaardt, Annerie Dercksen, and Nadine de Klerk, finishing as her side's most effective bowler despite the defeat.
Pressure. Precision. Perfection. 💥
Sree Charani produces a stunning double-wicket maiden as Team India tighten their grip on the game.
ICC Women's #T20WorldCup 2026 | #INDvSA | LIVE NOW 👉https://t.co/LwG4gG8UfK pic.twitter.com/It3Vky0q5R
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) June 21, 2026
Who won the Player of the Match award?
Marizanne Kapp was named Player of the Match for her outstanding all-round performance. The South African star played a match-winning unbeaten knock of 81 runs off 45 balls and also made a significant impact with the ball, claiming two wickets.
When is the next match?
South Africa Women will play their next game against Netherlands Women on Thursday, June 25 while India Women have their next game lined up against the Bangladesh Women on June 25. Both games will happen at Manchester
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'The lPL is certainly setting the trend' - Karun Nair's huge statement on shift in mindset in T20 format
"The players are thinking in different ways," Karun Nair said about the impact of the IPL.
"The players are thinking in different ways," Karun Nair said about the impact of the IPL.
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📢'The lPL is certainly setting the trend' - Karun Nair's huge statement on shift in mindset in T20 format
Karun Nair (Source: Getty Images)
Veteran India batter Karun Nair feels that the ultra-aggressive batting, which lit up the IPL (Indian Premier League) 2026, will change the mindset of batters across domestic competitions. Teams were scoring and chasing 200-plus totals for fun during the latest instalment of the cash-rich league.
Nair believes that modern-day T20 cricket has revolutionised the way players think and forced them into playing attacking cricket even when the conditions are not that conducive for batting.
“The lPL is certainly setting the trend. The players are thinking in different ways. So, I think we'll see similar things in every tournament going forward,” Karun, who leads Coastal Kings Mangaluru in the Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20, said in a release.
Nair, who has played 10 Tests and two ODIs and also has a triple century in the longest format, said that replicating the blistering batting that was on display during the IPL in other franchise leagues isn't easy because the conditions are different. However, he said that there is no change in the players' minds as far as their batting approach is concerned.
“Yes, it's difficult to replicate that because in IPL, the wickets are different and the bowlers are quicker, so the ball goes further. There are different factors so it will not always translate, but the mindset has changed for everyone,” said Nair, who represents the Delhi Capitals.
Nair didn't have the best of campaigns in the IPL this year. He got only two opportunities with the bat and scored just 18 runs at a strike rate of 100. The right-handed batter also dropped two catches of Shreyas Iyer during the clash between the Delhi Capitals and the Punjab Kings at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on April 25. The drops prove to be very costly, as Shreyas smashed an unbeaten 71 off 36 balls to help the visitors chase down a record 265-run target with six wickets and seven balls to spare.
Karun Nair (Source: Getty Images)
Veteran India batter Karun Nair feels that the ultra-aggressive batting, which lit up the IPL (Indian Premier League) 2026, will change the mindset of batters across domestic competitions. Teams were scoring and chasing 200-plus totals for fun during the latest instalment of the cash-rich league.
Nair believes that modern-day T20 cricket has revolutionised the way players think and forced them into playing attacking cricket even when the conditions are not that conducive for batting.
“The lPL is certainly setting the trend. The players are thinking in different ways. So, I think we'll see similar things in every tournament going forward,” Karun, who leads Coastal Kings Mangaluru in the Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20, said in a release.
Nair, who has played 10 Tests and two ODIs and also has a triple century in the longest format, said that replicating the blistering batting that was on display during the IPL in other franchise leagues isn't easy because the conditions are different. However, he said that there is no change in the players' minds as far as their batting approach is concerned.
“Yes, it's difficult to replicate that because in IPL, the wickets are different and the bowlers are quicker, so the ball goes further. There are different factors so it will not always translate, but the mindset has changed for everyone,” said Nair, who represents the Delhi Capitals.
Nair didn't have the best of campaigns in the IPL this year. He got only two opportunities with the bat and scored just 18 runs at a strike rate of 100. The right-handed batter also dropped two catches of Shreyas Iyer during the clash between the Delhi Capitals and the Punjab Kings at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on April 25. The drops prove to be very costly, as Shreyas smashed an unbeaten 71 off 36 balls to help the visitors chase down a record 265-run target with six wickets and seven balls to spare.
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Hashmatullah Shahidi reprimanded by ICC despite century in ODI series finale against India
In addition to the reprimand, one demerit point has been added to Shahidi’s disciplinary record.
In addition to the reprimand, one demerit point has been added to Shahidi’s disciplinary record.
📢Hashmatullah Shahidi reprimanded by ICC despite century in ODI series finale against India
Hashmatullah Shahidi reprimanded by ICC despite century in ODI series finale against India. (Photo Source: X(Twitter)
Afghanistan skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi landed in disciplinary trouble despite producing a valiant century in the third and final ODI against India at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.
The left-handed batter has been officially reprimanded by the ICC for breaching Level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct during the series decider. Shahidi was found guilty of violating Article 2.10.10 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which pertains to a batter causing deliberate or avoidable damage to the pitch.
In addition to the reprimand, one demerit point has been added to Shahidi’s disciplinary record. It is his first offence within a 24-month period.
During Afghanistan’s innings, Shahidi was warned on multiple occasions for running on the protected area of the pitch. The Afghan captain initially received two unofficial warnings from the umpires before being handed an official warning in the 31st over.
However, the batter repeated the offence in the 40th over, prompting the match officials to impose a five-run penalty on Afghanistan. His actions were deemed avoidable and in violation of the playing conditions designed to protect the surface.
Shahidi later accepted responsibility for the offence and agreed to the sanction proposed by ICC Elite Panel match referee Ranjan Madugalle, eliminating the need for a formal hearing. The charge was levelled by on-field umpires Chris Gaffaney and Rohan Pandit, along with third umpire Richard Illingworth and fourth umpire Virender Sharma.
“Level 1 breaches carry a minimum penalty of an official reprimand, a maximum penalty of 50 per cent of a player’s match fee, and one or two demerit points,” the ICC stated in an official release.
While Shahidi impressed with a fighting century in the final ODI, his efforts were not enough to prevent Afghanistan from suffering a series whitewash.
India completed a dominant 3-0 sweep after cruising to a nine-wicket victory in Chennai. Yashasvi Jaiswal starred with a magnificent century, while Rohit Sharma chipped in with a fluent 79-run knock as the hosts comfortably chased down the target.
Hashmatullah Shahidi reprimanded by ICC despite century in ODI series finale against India. (Photo Source: X(Twitter)
Afghanistan skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi landed in disciplinary trouble despite producing a valiant century in the third and final ODI against India at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.
The left-handed batter has been officially reprimanded by the ICC for breaching Level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct during the series decider. Shahidi was found guilty of violating Article 2.10.10 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which pertains to a batter causing deliberate or avoidable damage to the pitch.
In addition to the reprimand, one demerit point has been added to Shahidi’s disciplinary record. It is his first offence within a 24-month period.
During Afghanistan’s innings, Shahidi was warned on multiple occasions for running on the protected area of the pitch. The Afghan captain initially received two unofficial warnings from the umpires before being handed an official warning in the 31st over.
However, the batter repeated the offence in the 40th over, prompting the match officials to impose a five-run penalty on Afghanistan. His actions were deemed avoidable and in violation of the playing conditions designed to protect the surface.
Shahidi later accepted responsibility for the offence and agreed to the sanction proposed by ICC Elite Panel match referee Ranjan Madugalle, eliminating the need for a formal hearing. The charge was levelled by on-field umpires Chris Gaffaney and Rohan Pandit, along with third umpire Richard Illingworth and fourth umpire Virender Sharma.
“Level 1 breaches carry a minimum penalty of an official reprimand, a maximum penalty of 50 per cent of a player’s match fee, and one or two demerit points,” the ICC stated in an official release.
While Shahidi impressed with a fighting century in the final ODI, his efforts were not enough to prevent Afghanistan from suffering a series whitewash.
India completed a dominant 3-0 sweep after cruising to a nine-wicket victory in Chennai. Yashasvi Jaiswal starred with a magnificent century, while Rohit Sharma chipped in with a fluent 79-run knock as the hosts comfortably chased down the target.
'I think I'm a failure as a captain' - Chamari Athapaththu expresses sorrow after Sri Lanka's defeat to West Indies in Women's T20 World Cup 2026
"I think I played around 18 years for the national team, and I could never get a chance to take my team into a semi-final of a World Cup," Chamari Athapaththu said.
"I think I played around 18 years for the national team, and I could never get a chance to take my team into a semi-final of a World Cup," Chamari Athapaththu said.
📢'I think I'm a failure as a captain' - Chamari Athapaththu expresses sorrow after Sri Lanka's defeat to West Indies in Women's T20 World Cup 2026
Chamari-Athapaththu. (Photo source: X)
Sri Lanka's talismanic captain Chamari Athapaththu cut a disappointed figure on Sunday, June 21, after Sri Lanka were outplayed by the West Indies at the County Ground in Bristol in a crucial Women's T20 World Cup 2026 clash. The Asian side was bowled out for just 98 in 19.4 overs before the team from the Caribbean romped home with five wickets and 23 balls to spare.
Sri Lanka suffered their second defeat in three matches and are currently placed at No. 5 in Group B, just above Ireland, who have already been eliminated. While they are not out of contention yet, Athapaththu called herself a failure as a captain, sensing that she might not be able to take her team beyond the group stage once again.
"Actually, it's a sadness beyond words. I think I played around 18 years for the national team and I could never get a chance to take my team into a semi-final of a World Cup. Even though I have achieved many things personally, I think I'm a failure as a captain, because I think that's big pain for a player. Actually, now I have to be with that pain," the opening batter was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.
Athapaththu was dismissed by her opposite number, Hayley Matthews, in the third over after only scoring two runs off six balls. The Gokarella-born admitted that she should have played more responsibly. She feels she has lost her last opportunity to take her team to the knockouts.
"I think I tried my best, I think I should have played more responsible than this and if I have played more responsible than this today, we could have won this match today. So, I regret that. Especially I don't like to blame anyone and I think I have more responsibility as a player, as the captain of the team and as a player with more experience. So, I'm very sad, I feel like I lost my last chance," she said.
The next edition of the Women's T20 World Cup is set to be played in Pakistan in 2028. Athapaththu said she is 36 years old now and will try to work on her physical fitness to give herself the best chance of participating.
"For now, I can't give any explanation about that, because with my age, now I'm 36 years old. So, with fitness and all, that's being decided. So, I try my best to keep my physical fitness in a good level, and to keep my skills in a high level. If the team wants, I will play in the future, but with my performance level and fitness level, it will be decided if I play or not," she added.
Chamari-Athapaththu. (Photo source: X)
Sri Lanka's talismanic captain Chamari Athapaththu cut a disappointed figure on Sunday, June 21, after Sri Lanka were outplayed by the West Indies at the County Ground in Bristol in a crucial Women's T20 World Cup 2026 clash. The Asian side was bowled out for just 98 in 19.4 overs before the team from the Caribbean romped home with five wickets and 23 balls to spare.
Sri Lanka suffered their second defeat in three matches and are currently placed at No. 5 in Group B, just above Ireland, who have already been eliminated. While they are not out of contention yet, Athapaththu called herself a failure as a captain, sensing that she might not be able to take her team beyond the group stage once again.
"Actually, it's a sadness beyond words. I think I played around 18 years for the national team and I could never get a chance to take my team into a semi-final of a World Cup. Even though I have achieved many things personally, I think I'm a failure as a captain, because I think that's big pain for a player. Actually, now I have to be with that pain," the opening batter was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.
Athapaththu was dismissed by her opposite number, Hayley Matthews, in the third over after only scoring two runs off six balls. The Gokarella-born admitted that she should have played more responsibly. She feels she has lost her last opportunity to take her team to the knockouts.
"I think I tried my best, I think I should have played more responsible than this and if I have played more responsible than this today, we could have won this match today. So, I regret that. Especially I don't like to blame anyone and I think I have more responsibility as a player, as the captain of the team and as a player with more experience. So, I'm very sad, I feel like I lost my last chance," she said.
The next edition of the Women's T20 World Cup is set to be played in Pakistan in 2028. Athapaththu said she is 36 years old now and will try to work on her physical fitness to give herself the best chance of participating.
"For now, I can't give any explanation about that, because with my age, now I'm 36 years old. So, with fitness and all, that's being decided. So, I try my best to keep my physical fitness in a good level, and to keep my skills in a high level. If the team wants, I will play in the future, but with my performance level and fitness level, it will be decided if I play or not," she added.
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'He is scoring runs, but his name is still not coming' - Aakash Chopra on Yashasvi Jaiswal's omission for ODIs vs England
Despite scoring a brilliant century in the third ODI against Afghanistan last week, Yashasvi Jaiswal failed to hold onto his spot in the Indian team for the upcoming 50-over matches in England.
Despite scoring a brilliant century in the third ODI against Afghanistan last week, Yashasvi Jaiswal failed to hold onto his spot in the Indian team for the upcoming 50-over matches in England.
📢'He is scoring runs, but his name is still not coming' - Aakash Chopra on Yashasvi Jaiswal's omission for ODIs vs England
Yashasvi Jaiswal (Photo by Alex Davidson/Getty Images)
Despite scoring a brilliant century in the third ODI against Afghanistan last week, Yashasvi Jaiswal failed to hold onto his spot in the Indian team for the upcoming 50-over matches in England. The Men in Blue face the Three Lions in three ODIs in Birmingham, Cardiff, and London, on July 14, 16, and 19, respectively.
Former India opener Aakash Chopra noted that Jaiswal has been left out of the Indian team several times despite scoring runs. The southpaw came in as a replacement for the injured Virat Kohli for the Afghanistan series. However, he hasn't been named in the squad that will travel to the United Kingdom, as Kohli has been picked subject to fitness. Chopra believes that Jaiswal would feel what else he needs to do, with Ishan Kishan being preferred over him because of the multiple roles the wicketkeeper-batter can perform.
"You've got to feel for Yashasvi Jaiswal. He has played very few matches and has scored two centuries. He scored a century in the last match against South Africa and was dropped for the next series. He scored a century in the last match against Afghanistan now and has been dropped for the next series," Chopra said in a video on his YouTube channel.
"What more can I do? He will ask that question of himself for sure, but this is what it is. Shubman Gill is there with Rohit Sharma. Ishan Kishan provides you with multiple options. He is a keeper, backup middle order, and backup opener as well. He is one guy who fits everywhere. However, you have got to feel for Yashasvi. He is scoring runs, but his name is still not coming," he added.
Kishan finished as the second-highest run-getter in the series against Afghanistan, scoring 159 in two innings at a strike rate of 157.43. In the second ODI in Lucknow, the Jharkhand skipper slammed 125 off 79 balls. Meanwhile, Jaiswal's ton came in Chennai. He remained unbeaten on 110 off 86 balls, hitting 14 fours and three sixes.
Yashasvi Jaiswal (Photo by Alex Davidson/Getty Images)
Despite scoring a brilliant century in the third ODI against Afghanistan last week, Yashasvi Jaiswal failed to hold onto his spot in the Indian team for the upcoming 50-over matches in England. The Men in Blue face the Three Lions in three ODIs in Birmingham, Cardiff, and London, on July 14, 16, and 19, respectively.
Former India opener Aakash Chopra noted that Jaiswal has been left out of the Indian team several times despite scoring runs. The southpaw came in as a replacement for the injured Virat Kohli for the Afghanistan series. However, he hasn't been named in the squad that will travel to the United Kingdom, as Kohli has been picked subject to fitness. Chopra believes that Jaiswal would feel what else he needs to do, with Ishan Kishan being preferred over him because of the multiple roles the wicketkeeper-batter can perform.
"You've got to feel for Yashasvi Jaiswal. He has played very few matches and has scored two centuries. He scored a century in the last match against South Africa and was dropped for the next series. He scored a century in the last match against Afghanistan now and has been dropped for the next series," Chopra said in a video on his YouTube channel.
"What more can I do? He will ask that question of himself for sure, but this is what it is. Shubman Gill is there with Rohit Sharma. Ishan Kishan provides you with multiple options. He is a keeper, backup middle order, and backup opener as well. He is one guy who fits everywhere. However, you have got to feel for Yashasvi. He is scoring runs, but his name is still not coming," he added.
Kishan finished as the second-highest run-getter in the series against Afghanistan, scoring 159 in two innings at a strike rate of 157.43. In the second ODI in Lucknow, the Jharkhand skipper slammed 125 off 79 balls. Meanwhile, Jaiswal's ton came in Chennai. He remained unbeaten on 110 off 86 balls, hitting 14 fours and three sixes.
Harmanpreet Kaur becomes first cricketer to play 200 T20Is
Harmanpreet made her international debut in an ODI against Pakistan in March 2009.
Harmanpreet made her international debut in an ODI against Pakistan in March 2009.
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ENG vs NZ 2026: England fined and docked 12 WTC points for slow over rate in second Test
The Three Lions have been fined 50 per cent of their match fees and docked 12 points in the ICC World Test Championship standings
The Three Lions have been fined 50 per cent of their match fees and docked 12 points in the ICC World Test Championship standings
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Reports: Rishabh Pant was sacked from his role as LSG skipper
If reports are to be believed, Rishabh Pant didn't relinquish captaincy by himself. Instead, the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) management removed him from the role after two disappointing seasons.
If reports are to be believed, Rishabh Pant didn't relinquish captaincy by himself. Instead, the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) management removed him from the role after two disappointing seasons.
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[WATCH] ‘Keeps my head on’ - Glenn Phillips reveals why he opted to wear sunglasses against Jofra Archer
New Zealand scripted a famous victory over the hosts after losing the first Test match of the three-match series.
New Zealand scripted a famous victory over the hosts after losing the first Test match of the three-match series.