📢Nahid Rana ruled out of Zimbabwe T20I decider; Bangladesh pacer faces race against time for Australia Tests
Nahid Rana ruled out of Zimbabwe T20I decider; Bangladesh pacer faces race against time for Australia Tests. (Photo Source: Twitter)
Bangladesh has suffered a major injury setback ahead of the third and final T20I against Zimbabwe , with pace sensation Nahid Rana ruled out of the series decider due to a side strain. The injury has also cast doubt over his availability for Bangladesh's upcoming two-match Test series against Australia.
The 23-year-old sustained the injury during the second T20I against Zimbabwe. After bowling just 2.3 overs, Rana was forced to leave the field, finishing with figures of 1/15. Earlier in the series, he had starred with the ball, registering career-best T20I figures of 4/26 in the opening match.
Rana is expected to be sidelined for two to three weeks, leaving Bangladesh anxious ahead of their red-ball assignment in Australia next month.
A member of Bangladesh's national selection panel confirmed that Rana will miss the third T20I and revealed that the team management is awaiting the scan results to determine the severity of the injury.
"He (Rana) is certainly missing the third T20I against Zimbabwe and we feel the side strain will take at least two to three weeks to recover," the selector was quoted as saying by Cricbuzz.
While the initial assessment suggests a short-term layoff, Bangladesh is hopeful that the injury is not serious enough to keep the young fast bowler out of the Australia tour.
"We are waiting for the scan report while we keep our fingers crossed, as we still have some time before the first Test against Australia," he continued.
The selector admitted that losing Rana for the Australia series would be a significant blow, considering the impact he has made in Bangladesh's pace attack over the past year.
"The way he is bowling at the moment, missing him in the Australia tour would be a big blow, so we are waiting to see the depth of his injury and actually how many days he will take to recover," he added.
Australia Test series under threat
Rana is now in a race against time to regain full fitness before the opening Test against Australia, which is scheduled to begin on August 13 in Darwin. The second and final Test of the series will be played in Mackay from August 22.
The report further stated that Bangladesh Test captain Najmul Hossain Shanto and the national selectors met at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium on Saturday to discuss preparations for the Australia tour, with Rana's fitness emerging as a key talking point.
Nahid Rana ruled out of Zimbabwe T20I decider; Bangladesh pacer faces race against time for Australia Tests. (Photo Source: Twitter)
Bangladesh has suffered a major injury setback ahead of the third and final T20I against Zimbabwe , with pace sensation Nahid Rana ruled out of the series decider due to a side strain. The injury has also cast doubt over his availability for Bangladesh's upcoming two-match Test series against Australia.
The 23-year-old sustained the injury during the second T20I against Zimbabwe. After bowling just 2.3 overs, Rana was forced to leave the field, finishing with figures of 1/15. Earlier in the series, he had starred with the ball, registering career-best T20I figures of 4/26 in the opening match.
Rana is expected to be sidelined for two to three weeks, leaving Bangladesh anxious ahead of their red-ball assignment in Australia next month.
A member of Bangladesh's national selection panel confirmed that Rana will miss the third T20I and revealed that the team management is awaiting the scan results to determine the severity of the injury.
"He (Rana) is certainly missing the third T20I against Zimbabwe and we feel the side strain will take at least two to three weeks to recover," the selector was quoted as saying by Cricbuzz.
While the initial assessment suggests a short-term layoff, Bangladesh is hopeful that the injury is not serious enough to keep the young fast bowler out of the Australia tour.
"We are waiting for the scan report while we keep our fingers crossed, as we still have some time before the first Test against Australia," he continued.
The selector admitted that losing Rana for the Australia series would be a significant blow, considering the impact he has made in Bangladesh's pace attack over the past year.
"The way he is bowling at the moment, missing him in the Australia tour would be a big blow, so we are waiting to see the depth of his injury and actually how many days he will take to recover," he added.
Australia Test series under threat
Rana is now in a race against time to regain full fitness before the opening Test against Australia, which is scheduled to begin on August 13 in Darwin. The second and final Test of the series will be played in Mackay from August 22.
The report further stated that Bangladesh Test captain Najmul Hossain Shanto and the national selectors met at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium on Saturday to discuss preparations for the Australia tour, with Rana's fitness emerging as a key talking point.
Hope wants West Indies to get 'the results we really want' as tribute to Sobers
West Indies are 2-1 down in the five-match series against New Zealand, and need more wins to ensure direct qualification for the 2027 ODI World Cup
West Indies are 2-1 down in the five-match series against New Zealand, and need more wins to ensure direct qualification for the 2027 ODI World Cup
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📢Mohammad Kaif suggests one change to India's Playing XI at Lord's for injured Washington Sundar
Mohammad Kaif suggests one change to India's Playing XI at Lord's for injured Washington Sundar (Source: Ranjith Kumar/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif has suggested one change to the Playing XI of the Indian team for the third ODI against England. The series decider will be played at the Lord's Cricket Ground, and Kaif wants the injured Washington Sundar to be replaced with senior player KL Rahul. Notably, Rahul had missed the second ODI in Cardiff due to a fever, as India lost after poor batting by their middle-order unit.
Kaif believes that the third and final encounter of the series is going to be a huge test for the Gautam Gambhir -led unit. He further opined that a fit-again Rahul should definitely make a comeback to the playing XI since the game on Sunday is a do-or-die contest with the series currently levelled at 1-1. However, he also feels that India will be compromising their bowling attack by bringing Rahul in.
"I think this is a bit of a test for the team now because of the five bowlers that were there in the second ODI, plus KL Rahul if he is fit. Gautam Gambhir and Shubman Gill like having batting till No. 8; this has been the template that has been followed. They have compromised their bowling but never their batting till No. 8. I don't remember them doing anything like that, and now it is a do-or-die game," Kaif said on Cricbuzz.
The team management is currently under the scanner for benching unorthodox spinner Kuldeep Yadav in the first couple of games. While left-arm spin-bowling all-rounder Harsh Dubey has been added to the squad as a replacement for the departed Sundar , Kaif believes that a seasoned campaigner like Kuldeep should make the cut.
"Since this is a series decider, two questions arise. Will they bring Kuldeep Yadav or KL Rahul? If KL Rahul comes, then they will have the same bowlers from the second ODI, which includes Shivam Dube. If you ask me, I would like Kuldeep Yadav to play in this decider match. He is a wicket-taker and he should get a chance," Kaif added.
The third ODI between India and England will be played at Lord's, London, on Sunday, July 19. The winner of this encounter will also win the series 2-1.
Mohammad Kaif suggests one change to India's Playing XI at Lord's for injured Washington Sundar (Source: Ranjith Kumar/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif has suggested one change to the Playing XI of the Indian team for the third ODI against England. The series decider will be played at the Lord's Cricket Ground, and Kaif wants the injured Washington Sundar to be replaced with senior player KL Rahul. Notably, Rahul had missed the second ODI in Cardiff due to a fever, as India lost after poor batting by their middle-order unit.
Kaif believes that the third and final encounter of the series is going to be a huge test for the Gautam Gambhir -led unit. He further opined that a fit-again Rahul should definitely make a comeback to the playing XI since the game on Sunday is a do-or-die contest with the series currently levelled at 1-1. However, he also feels that India will be compromising their bowling attack by bringing Rahul in.
"I think this is a bit of a test for the team now because of the five bowlers that were there in the second ODI, plus KL Rahul if he is fit. Gautam Gambhir and Shubman Gill like having batting till No. 8; this has been the template that has been followed. They have compromised their bowling but never their batting till No. 8. I don't remember them doing anything like that, and now it is a do-or-die game," Kaif said on Cricbuzz.
The team management is currently under the scanner for benching unorthodox spinner Kuldeep Yadav in the first couple of games. While left-arm spin-bowling all-rounder Harsh Dubey has been added to the squad as a replacement for the departed Sundar , Kaif believes that a seasoned campaigner like Kuldeep should make the cut.
"Since this is a series decider, two questions arise. Will they bring Kuldeep Yadav or KL Rahul? If KL Rahul comes, then they will have the same bowlers from the second ODI, which includes Shivam Dube. If you ask me, I would like Kuldeep Yadav to play in this decider match. He is a wicket-taker and he should get a chance," Kaif added.
The third ODI between India and England will be played at Lord's, London, on Sunday, July 19. The winner of this encounter will also win the series 2-1.
📢Jason Gillespie hits out at selector Aaqib Javed for alleged lies over his PAK coaching tenure
Former Pakistan coach Jason Gillespie hits out at selector Aaqib Javed for alleged lies (Photo Source: Twitter/X)
Former Pakistan Test coach Jason Gillespie has hit out strongly against criticisms and accusations of negligence from Pakistan Chief Selector Aaqib Javed.
Gillespie spent a tumultuous eight months, starting in April 2024, overseeing the red ball teams and the white ball teams for a short span. A significant milestone during his time was the 2-1 Test series win against England in the winter of 2024, who had whitewashed Pakistan at home two years prior. Javed had hit out at Gillespie and then-captain Shan Masood for their perceived negligence for not being able to beat the Englishmen after they had decimated Pakistan in the first Test of the series in Multan. Gillespie, recounting what was said, quoted Javed's words regarding the issue.
"I think this is a bit personal for me as well. It's a question that Aaqib Javed, who's the chairman of selectors of the Pakistan cricket team. Why did Gary Kirsten and Jason Gillespie resign? And then he's come out and been quoted, and I'm going to read it verbatim. Frankly speaking, they used to overrule every selector.
"They weren't willing to listen to anyone. I went to Multan and spoke with Jason and Shan Masood, the captain. I asked them, what was your plan after the first test against England? They had no plan. I said, this isn't going to work. We need to change both the pitch and the team. We brought in the spinners. Pakistan won. That's when things started to go wrong," Gillespie said on the Fast Bowling Cartel Podcast .
Pakistan played the second Test on the same wicket as the first Test, which they eventually ended up winning. Revealing the behind-the-scenes details, Gillespie said that Javed walked into the dressing room and told the team that the team would be changed, with the inclusion of spinners Sajid Khan and Noman Ali, and that they would be playing on the same pitch as in the first Test. The former Australian fast bowler also revealed the criteria for the selection of players, a fitness parameter, which was also breached by Javed when he made changes to the team.
"You didn't ask. You walked in and you said, this is what we're doing, we're changing the team. We are playing on the same surface that we just played a five-day test on in four days' time, so it was going to be a day 10 or 11 surface. And I asked him, why are we doing that, we've got other surfaces prepared, because you've got to prepare the best surface, you play on the best surface available. He decided that they were going to change," Gillespie further revealed.
"The reason we didn't play the spinners was because we were instructed, before Aaqib and the new selectors came in, we were instructed that you could only pick players that had passed the fitness testing criteria. There was a 2K time trial, and if you didn't satisfy that criteria, you weren't allowed to pick them. So there were a number of players that we weren't allowed to pick. So I communicated this with Aaqib. He said, I've spoken to the chairman, and we can pick who we want, I can pick who I want," he added.
Gillespie also expressed frustration with the pitch curators, who were deliberating about putting sand on the surface to encourage turn and with their attempts to wear down the pitch artificially.
"What I had an issue with was with the pitch, was that I didn't agree with the suggestion to sprinkle it with sand as well. Not only was it a 10-11 day pitch, to sprinkle it with sand, what? I don't agree with that. That's what I didn't agree with. What I also didn't agree with is when we went to Rawalpindi after that test match that we won, they had big industrial dryers on the pitch. And men, they're scraping them with nails. So I didn't agree with that either," Gillespie said.
Gillespie further stated that Gary Kirsten, who was Pakistan 's white-ball coach at the time, was let go after their loss in the first Test, after whic
Former Pakistan coach Jason Gillespie hits out at selector Aaqib Javed for alleged lies (Photo Source: Twitter/X)
Former Pakistan Test coach Jason Gillespie has hit out strongly against criticisms and accusations of negligence from Pakistan Chief Selector Aaqib Javed.
Gillespie spent a tumultuous eight months, starting in April 2024, overseeing the red ball teams and the white ball teams for a short span. A significant milestone during his time was the 2-1 Test series win against England in the winter of 2024, who had whitewashed Pakistan at home two years prior. Javed had hit out at Gillespie and then-captain Shan Masood for their perceived negligence for not being able to beat the Englishmen after they had decimated Pakistan in the first Test of the series in Multan. Gillespie, recounting what was said, quoted Javed's words regarding the issue.
"I think this is a bit personal for me as well. It's a question that Aaqib Javed, who's the chairman of selectors of the Pakistan cricket team. Why did Gary Kirsten and Jason Gillespie resign? And then he's come out and been quoted, and I'm going to read it verbatim. Frankly speaking, they used to overrule every selector.
"They weren't willing to listen to anyone. I went to Multan and spoke with Jason and Shan Masood, the captain. I asked them, what was your plan after the first test against England? They had no plan. I said, this isn't going to work. We need to change both the pitch and the team. We brought in the spinners. Pakistan won. That's when things started to go wrong," Gillespie said on the Fast Bowling Cartel Podcast .
Pakistan played the second Test on the same wicket as the first Test, which they eventually ended up winning. Revealing the behind-the-scenes details, Gillespie said that Javed walked into the dressing room and told the team that the team would be changed, with the inclusion of spinners Sajid Khan and Noman Ali, and that they would be playing on the same pitch as in the first Test. The former Australian fast bowler also revealed the criteria for the selection of players, a fitness parameter, which was also breached by Javed when he made changes to the team.
"You didn't ask. You walked in and you said, this is what we're doing, we're changing the team. We are playing on the same surface that we just played a five-day test on in four days' time, so it was going to be a day 10 or 11 surface. And I asked him, why are we doing that, we've got other surfaces prepared, because you've got to prepare the best surface, you play on the best surface available. He decided that they were going to change," Gillespie further revealed.
"The reason we didn't play the spinners was because we were instructed, before Aaqib and the new selectors came in, we were instructed that you could only pick players that had passed the fitness testing criteria. There was a 2K time trial, and if you didn't satisfy that criteria, you weren't allowed to pick them. So there were a number of players that we weren't allowed to pick. So I communicated this with Aaqib. He said, I've spoken to the chairman, and we can pick who we want, I can pick who I want," he added.
Gillespie also expressed frustration with the pitch curators, who were deliberating about putting sand on the surface to encourage turn and with their attempts to wear down the pitch artificially.
"What I had an issue with was with the pitch, was that I didn't agree with the suggestion to sprinkle it with sand as well. Not only was it a 10-11 day pitch, to sprinkle it with sand, what? I don't agree with that. That's what I didn't agree with. What I also didn't agree with is when we went to Rawalpindi after that test match that we won, they had big industrial dryers on the pitch. And men, they're scraping them with nails. So I didn't agree with that either," Gillespie said.
Gillespie further stated that Gary Kirsten, who was Pakistan 's white-ball coach at the time, was let go after their loss in the first Test, after whic
h the former Aussie fast bowler was made to step into the role. Gillespie pointed out the amusing nature of the issue.
"And you know the funniest thing about that? Gary Kirsten was relieved of his duties as a selector after a test match loss that we had. He last coached the white ball team three months ago. So he got sacked from doing nothing for three months.
"Like there was no cricket for three months and he was relieved of his duties as a selector. And then that's when the team was, he'd been part of the process to pick the squad to go to Australia. And then Aaqib came in and changed the whole squad. And Gary actually said, well, what I didn't, I wasn't consulted on any of this," Gillespie concluded.
"And you know the funniest thing about that? Gary Kirsten was relieved of his duties as a selector after a test match loss that we had. He last coached the white ball team three months ago. So he got sacked from doing nothing for three months.
"Like there was no cricket for three months and he was relieved of his duties as a selector. And then that's when the team was, he'd been part of the process to pick the squad to go to Australia. And then Aaqib came in and changed the whole squad. And Gary actually said, well, what I didn't, I wasn't consulted on any of this," Gillespie concluded.
📢LPL 2026: Match 6, DS vs KR Match Prediction – Who will win today’s LPL match between Dambulla Sixers vs Kandy Royals?
LPL 2026: Match 6, DS vs KR Match Prediction – Who will win today’s LPL match between Dambulla Sixers vs Kandy Royals? (Source: Dambulla Sixers & Kandy Falcons/IG)
The Dambulla Sixers (DS) will lock horns with the Kandy Royals (KR) in Match 6 of the Lanka Premier League (LPL) 2026 at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, Dambulla , on Tuesday, July 21 . With both teams heading into their third match of the season, they will be eager to strengthen their position in the points table.
The Sixers have enjoyed a promising start to the campaign, registering an 18-run win over Kandy Royals in their previous outing. Reeza Hendricks starred with an unbeaten 87, while Gulbadin Naib's late fireworks powered the side to 205/6. Dambulla's bowling attack then held its nerve to defend the total successfully.
Meanwhile, the Royals will be looking to bounce back after suffering that defeat. Despite a fighting effort with the bat, they fell short by 18 runs while chasing 206.
DS vs KR: Match Details
Match
Dambulla Sixers vs Kandy Royals, Match 6 , Lanka Premier League 2026
Date and Time (IST)
Tuesday, July 21, 2026, 7:30 PM (IST)
Venue
Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, Dambulla
Broadcast and Live-Streaming
JioStar Network Channels and JioHotstar (App & Website)
Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, Dambulla: Pitch Report
The surface at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium is expected to provide a balanced contest between bat and ball. Batters should enjoy good value for their shots early in the innings, while the spinners are likely to come into the game as the pitch slows down.
DS vs KR: Head-to-Head Record
Matches Played
3
Won By DS
1
Won By KR
2
No Result
1
First-ever Fixture
November 30, 2020
Most Recent Fixture
July 18, 2026
DS vs KR: Predicted Playing 11s
Dambulla Sixers:
Sahibzada Farhan, Reeza Hendricks, Marques Ackerman, Niroshan Dickwella (WK), Dinesh Chandimal (C), Pavan Rathnayake, Dhananjaya Lakshan, Vishwa Lahiru, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana
Kandy Royals:
Dale Phillips, Lahiru Udara(w), Muditha Lakshan, Angelo Mathews(c), Vijay Shankar, Dushan Hemantha, Wanindu Hasaranga, Asitha Fernando, Nuwan Thushara, Vishen Halambage, Shaheen Afridi
DS vs KR: Probable Best Performers of the Match
Probable Best Batter: Reeza Hendricks
Reeza Hendricks has looked in sublime touch to begin the tournament. The South African opener smashed an unbeaten 87 off just 50 balls in the previous meeting between these sides, striking 11 fours and two sixes. His ability to anchor the innings while maintaining a high scoring rate makes him the biggest batting threat for Dambulla once again.
Probable Best Bowler: Maheesh Theekshana
Maheesh Theekshana could play a decisive role with the ball on the Dambulla surface. The mystery spinner is renowned for controlling the middle overs and breaking crucial partnerships. With the pitch expected to assist spin, Theekshana's variations could trouble Kandy's batting lineup.
Today's Match Prediction : Dambulla Sixers to win the match
LPL 2026: Match 6, DS vs KR Match Prediction – Who will win today’s LPL match between Dambulla Sixers vs Kandy Royals? (Source: Dambulla Sixers & Kandy Falcons/IG)
The Dambulla Sixers (DS) will lock horns with the Kandy Royals (KR) in Match 6 of the Lanka Premier League (LPL) 2026 at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, Dambulla , on Tuesday, July 21 . With both teams heading into their third match of the season, they will be eager to strengthen their position in the points table.
The Sixers have enjoyed a promising start to the campaign, registering an 18-run win over Kandy Royals in their previous outing. Reeza Hendricks starred with an unbeaten 87, while Gulbadin Naib's late fireworks powered the side to 205/6. Dambulla's bowling attack then held its nerve to defend the total successfully.
Meanwhile, the Royals will be looking to bounce back after suffering that defeat. Despite a fighting effort with the bat, they fell short by 18 runs while chasing 206.
DS vs KR: Match Details
Match
Dambulla Sixers vs Kandy Royals, Match 6 , Lanka Premier League 2026
Date and Time (IST)
Tuesday, July 21, 2026, 7:30 PM (IST)
Venue
Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, Dambulla
Broadcast and Live-Streaming
JioStar Network Channels and JioHotstar (App & Website)
Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, Dambulla: Pitch Report
The surface at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium is expected to provide a balanced contest between bat and ball. Batters should enjoy good value for their shots early in the innings, while the spinners are likely to come into the game as the pitch slows down.
DS vs KR: Head-to-Head Record
Matches Played
3
Won By DS
1
Won By KR
2
No Result
1
First-ever Fixture
November 30, 2020
Most Recent Fixture
July 18, 2026
DS vs KR: Predicted Playing 11s
Dambulla Sixers:
Sahibzada Farhan, Reeza Hendricks, Marques Ackerman, Niroshan Dickwella (WK), Dinesh Chandimal (C), Pavan Rathnayake, Dhananjaya Lakshan, Vishwa Lahiru, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana
Kandy Royals:
Dale Phillips, Lahiru Udara(w), Muditha Lakshan, Angelo Mathews(c), Vijay Shankar, Dushan Hemantha, Wanindu Hasaranga, Asitha Fernando, Nuwan Thushara, Vishen Halambage, Shaheen Afridi
DS vs KR: Probable Best Performers of the Match
Probable Best Batter: Reeza Hendricks
Reeza Hendricks has looked in sublime touch to begin the tournament. The South African opener smashed an unbeaten 87 off just 50 balls in the previous meeting between these sides, striking 11 fours and two sixes. His ability to anchor the innings while maintaining a high scoring rate makes him the biggest batting threat for Dambulla once again.
Probable Best Bowler: Maheesh Theekshana
Maheesh Theekshana could play a decisive role with the ball on the Dambulla surface. The mystery spinner is renowned for controlling the middle overs and breaking crucial partnerships. With the pitch expected to assist spin, Theekshana's variations could trouble Kandy's batting lineup.
Today's Match Prediction : Dambulla Sixers to win the match
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📢'Need to play this one for the great man' - West Indies to play 4th ODI as tribute to Garry Sobers
Garry Sobers (Source: Getty Images)
West Indies ODI skipper Shai Hope paid tribute to Sir Garfield Sobers ahead of the fourth ODI of the five-match series against New Zealand and is aiming to win the game in honour of the late all-rounder, who passed away on Friday, July 17.
The cricketing world suffered a significant loss with the passing of the legendary all-rounder, who was credited for his contributions to West Indies cricket and the game as a whole. Hope acknowledged that the occasion would be significant for the team, and they would be looking to get a result in honour of the all-rounder.
"It was a sad one. It's something that he [Sobers] has shown what West Indies cricket really means. He's one of the first legends of the game, really set and paved the way for us all. So I think tomorrow should be a big inspiration for us, a big confidence-booster for us," Hope said at the pre-match press conference.
"Not saying that we're looking at the death only to raise us, but we need to play this one for the great man, and hopefully we can get the results that we really want in his honour as well," The wicketkeeper-batter added.
The Windies trail 2-1 in the series, having lost the previous two games. With the series shifting towards Barbados after the first three games in Guyana, Hope stated that each game is important for the team, considering their qualification hopes for the 2027 ODI World Cup rest on their results.
"It's very important. I've been mentioning for the last few series now, every single game is very important, especially for what's at stake. We've got a big qualification period, so I think these games hold a lot more weight, probably a bit more than the others.
But we've still got to play each game as it comes. We've got to ensure that we're following all of our processes and executing when the time comes, because as you name a game, tomorrow especially, being able to execute under pressure and in those crucial moments," the experienced cricketer added.
Hope stated the series in fine fashion, scoring an unbeaten 87 off 92 balls in a seven-wicket victory. He has followed it up with scores of 7 and 8 in the next two games, struggling against the New Zealand spinners. He believes that stepping up on the day is more important than form and doing everything necessary for the team.
"I don't really believe in form. It's about doing what's required on the day. There are games you'll be batting really well and don't get much, and vice versa: there are some games you feel out of sync and you come in and score runs. It's just about being able to execute on the day, doing whatever is necessary and what is required for the team on a given day," he said.
Personally, I always feel good going into the game. Once I cross the line, I always believe I can get the job done. The main aim for me is just trying to execute under pressure," Hope concluded.
The match will be played at the Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, Barbados, on Sunday, July 19. The same venue will also host the final game of the series.
Garry Sobers (Source: Getty Images)
West Indies ODI skipper Shai Hope paid tribute to Sir Garfield Sobers ahead of the fourth ODI of the five-match series against New Zealand and is aiming to win the game in honour of the late all-rounder, who passed away on Friday, July 17.
The cricketing world suffered a significant loss with the passing of the legendary all-rounder, who was credited for his contributions to West Indies cricket and the game as a whole. Hope acknowledged that the occasion would be significant for the team, and they would be looking to get a result in honour of the all-rounder.
"It was a sad one. It's something that he [Sobers] has shown what West Indies cricket really means. He's one of the first legends of the game, really set and paved the way for us all. So I think tomorrow should be a big inspiration for us, a big confidence-booster for us," Hope said at the pre-match press conference.
"Not saying that we're looking at the death only to raise us, but we need to play this one for the great man, and hopefully we can get the results that we really want in his honour as well," The wicketkeeper-batter added.
The Windies trail 2-1 in the series, having lost the previous two games. With the series shifting towards Barbados after the first three games in Guyana, Hope stated that each game is important for the team, considering their qualification hopes for the 2027 ODI World Cup rest on their results.
"It's very important. I've been mentioning for the last few series now, every single game is very important, especially for what's at stake. We've got a big qualification period, so I think these games hold a lot more weight, probably a bit more than the others.
But we've still got to play each game as it comes. We've got to ensure that we're following all of our processes and executing when the time comes, because as you name a game, tomorrow especially, being able to execute under pressure and in those crucial moments," the experienced cricketer added.
Hope stated the series in fine fashion, scoring an unbeaten 87 off 92 balls in a seven-wicket victory. He has followed it up with scores of 7 and 8 in the next two games, struggling against the New Zealand spinners. He believes that stepping up on the day is more important than form and doing everything necessary for the team.
"I don't really believe in form. It's about doing what's required on the day. There are games you'll be batting really well and don't get much, and vice versa: there are some games you feel out of sync and you come in and score runs. It's just about being able to execute on the day, doing whatever is necessary and what is required for the team on a given day," he said.
Personally, I always feel good going into the game. Once I cross the line, I always believe I can get the job done. The main aim for me is just trying to execute under pressure," Hope concluded.
The match will be played at the Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, Barbados, on Sunday, July 19. The same venue will also host the final game of the series.
📢'They've not answered the main question' - Sadagoppan Ramesh slams BCCI's update on Rohit Sharma's future
Rohit Sharma playing shot (Source: BCCI)
Sadagoppan Ramesh wasn't too pleased with the amount of clarity that BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia provided on Rohit Sharma's future in international cricket after the third ODI against England. According to initial reports, this match, which will be played at the Lord's Cricket Ground in London on Sunday, July 19, was going to be Rohit's last match in the India jersey.
However, these reports were rubbished by BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia, who confirmed that the encounter at the Home of Cricket won't be the last time fans see the five-time IPL-winning captain playing for the Men in Blue.
"There has been no such discussion that Rohit will be playing his last match at Lord's on Sunday. Rohit is a regular member of the Indian ODI team and he will continue to represent the country as long as he is in the scheme of things. In other words, Lord's ODI won't be his last match," Saikia was quoted as saying by India Today.
However, former India opener Sadagoppan Ramesh said that these remarks from Saikia didn't give any clarity about Rohit's partiticipation in the 2027 ODI World Cup.
"The only lines to consider from the statement is the 'as long as he is in the scheme of things'. They've not answered the main question with this statement. Is Rohit Sharma part of your scheme of things in the future? Everyone knows a person has to book tickets to go to a place. But is he going or not is the question? The same applies here for Rohit," Ramesh said on his Instagram handle.
"A brilliant knock in the Lord's game will enhance those chances" - S Ramesh on Rohit Sharma
Rohit has had a dismal series against England so far. In the first two games, he has registered scores of 11 and 26. Ramesh opined that the decisive third ODI could be a chance for the right-handed batter to make a significant impact on what could be his last international appearance at the iconic venue.
"Performance must be the parameter for anyone's selection. But India still has a lot to gain from Rohit Sharma is my belief. Thus, him going out on a high is paramount and a brilliant knock in the Lord's game will enhance those chances," said Ramesh (via the aforementioned source).
"For Rohit's sake, a brilliant knock in the Lord's match will do wonders. It has nothing to do with his future selections or 2027 World Cup selection. It's just so that a player with such pedigree and ability dictate their own destiny with satisfaction. That's how it should be and not a decision that's forced upon him."
Rohit Sharma playing shot (Source: BCCI)
Sadagoppan Ramesh wasn't too pleased with the amount of clarity that BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia provided on Rohit Sharma's future in international cricket after the third ODI against England. According to initial reports, this match, which will be played at the Lord's Cricket Ground in London on Sunday, July 19, was going to be Rohit's last match in the India jersey.
However, these reports were rubbished by BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia, who confirmed that the encounter at the Home of Cricket won't be the last time fans see the five-time IPL-winning captain playing for the Men in Blue.
"There has been no such discussion that Rohit will be playing his last match at Lord's on Sunday. Rohit is a regular member of the Indian ODI team and he will continue to represent the country as long as he is in the scheme of things. In other words, Lord's ODI won't be his last match," Saikia was quoted as saying by India Today.
However, former India opener Sadagoppan Ramesh said that these remarks from Saikia didn't give any clarity about Rohit's partiticipation in the 2027 ODI World Cup.
"The only lines to consider from the statement is the 'as long as he is in the scheme of things'. They've not answered the main question with this statement. Is Rohit Sharma part of your scheme of things in the future? Everyone knows a person has to book tickets to go to a place. But is he going or not is the question? The same applies here for Rohit," Ramesh said on his Instagram handle.
"A brilliant knock in the Lord's game will enhance those chances" - S Ramesh on Rohit Sharma
Rohit has had a dismal series against England so far. In the first two games, he has registered scores of 11 and 26. Ramesh opined that the decisive third ODI could be a chance for the right-handed batter to make a significant impact on what could be his last international appearance at the iconic venue.
"Performance must be the parameter for anyone's selection. But India still has a lot to gain from Rohit Sharma is my belief. Thus, him going out on a high is paramount and a brilliant knock in the Lord's game will enhance those chances," said Ramesh (via the aforementioned source).
"For Rohit's sake, a brilliant knock in the Lord's match will do wonders. It has nothing to do with his future selections or 2027 World Cup selection. It's just so that a player with such pedigree and ability dictate their own destiny with satisfaction. That's how it should be and not a decision that's forced upon him."
📢ENG vs IND 2026: Why is Jasprit Bumrah not playing in the 3rd ODI?
Bumrah (Photo by Chris Hyde/Getty Images)
India and England lock horns in the decisive third and final ODI at the iconic Lord's Cricket Ground in London on Sunday, July 19.
The series is all square at 1-1. India won the first ODI at Edgbaston but England restored parity by emerging victorious at Sophia Gardens. It will be interesting to see who gets the win and bags the series on Sunday.
ENG vs IND, 3rd ODI: Toss Update
Harry Brook won the toss and decided to bat first. He reckoned that the pitch looks good for batting and hoped that the hosts would be able to put on a decent score to put the Men in Blue under pressure. Meanwhile, Shubman Gill said that he was going to elect to bowl first anyway had he won the toss.
ENG vs IND, 3rd ODI: Why is Jasprit Bumrah not playing?
Shubman Gill mentioned India's three changes at the toss. Shivam Dube, Jasprit Bumrah , and Washington Sundar have made way for KL Rahul, Prince Yadav, and Arshdeep Singh. While Sundar was ruled out of the third ODI due to a hamstring injury, Gill shared a worrying update on Bumrah at the toss, saying that he had sustained a knee injury. Dube's snub is mostly due to a change in combination that India wanted to try.
England, on the other hand, made just one change. Josh Tongue has come into the side in place of fellow right-arm speedster Saqib Mahmood.
ENG vs IND, 3rd ODI: What did the captains say?
Harry Brook, England captain, said
We're going to have a bat today. It looks like a good surface, hopefully we can get a decent score on the board and put them under pressure. Tongue comes back in for Saqib. [On the most pleasing aspect of England's win in Cardiff] Well, there's loads of periods, I thought we did really well through the middle overs with the ball to restrict them. I can't remember what the figures were, but I think they went for 30 runs in 10 overs or so. And then the way that Rooty batted sets a great template for all of our batters. [On the chance to seal the series] Yeah, it'd be beautiful, wouldn't it? Hopefully we'll be lifting that trophy at the end of the day, but we've got to go in there, assess conditions as well as we can, and adapt to the conditions as well.
Shubman Gill, India captain, said
[On losing the toss] We were bowling first. We have got three changes. Boom misses out, he's unavailable due to some knee injury. And so is Washington Sundar. Dube also misses out. KL comes in, Prince Yadav comes in, and Arshdeep comes back into the team. [On selecting Arshdeep Singh] We're not the one who relies on stats so much. We think he's a great bowler, and we were looking for four seamers on this ground. We have seen in the middle overs, spinners don't really offer much as compared to the fast bowlers. [On what India need to improve from the second ODI] I think we were in a great position up until the 25 overs of the match, and then we lost too many wickets in the middle overs, end of the middle overs. So hopefully, if you're in that kind of position, we post a good total close to 280-300. And then we have seen it's not easy to score freely in the past couple of matches. So hopefully, if we are able to get good runs and put the team in a comfortable position.
ENG vs IND, 3rd ODI: Playing XIs
England
Ben Duckett , Jacob Bethell, Joe Root, Harry Brook(c), Jos Buttler(w), Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Gus Atkinson, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid, Josh Tongue.
India
Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill (C), Virat Kohli , Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (WK), Axar Patel, Gurnoor Brar, Prince Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna.
Bumrah (Photo by Chris Hyde/Getty Images)
India and England lock horns in the decisive third and final ODI at the iconic Lord's Cricket Ground in London on Sunday, July 19.
The series is all square at 1-1. India won the first ODI at Edgbaston but England restored parity by emerging victorious at Sophia Gardens. It will be interesting to see who gets the win and bags the series on Sunday.
ENG vs IND, 3rd ODI: Toss Update
Harry Brook won the toss and decided to bat first. He reckoned that the pitch looks good for batting and hoped that the hosts would be able to put on a decent score to put the Men in Blue under pressure. Meanwhile, Shubman Gill said that he was going to elect to bowl first anyway had he won the toss.
ENG vs IND, 3rd ODI: Why is Jasprit Bumrah not playing?
Shubman Gill mentioned India's three changes at the toss. Shivam Dube, Jasprit Bumrah , and Washington Sundar have made way for KL Rahul, Prince Yadav, and Arshdeep Singh. While Sundar was ruled out of the third ODI due to a hamstring injury, Gill shared a worrying update on Bumrah at the toss, saying that he had sustained a knee injury. Dube's snub is mostly due to a change in combination that India wanted to try.
England, on the other hand, made just one change. Josh Tongue has come into the side in place of fellow right-arm speedster Saqib Mahmood.
ENG vs IND, 3rd ODI: What did the captains say?
Harry Brook, England captain, said
We're going to have a bat today. It looks like a good surface, hopefully we can get a decent score on the board and put them under pressure. Tongue comes back in for Saqib. [On the most pleasing aspect of England's win in Cardiff] Well, there's loads of periods, I thought we did really well through the middle overs with the ball to restrict them. I can't remember what the figures were, but I think they went for 30 runs in 10 overs or so. And then the way that Rooty batted sets a great template for all of our batters. [On the chance to seal the series] Yeah, it'd be beautiful, wouldn't it? Hopefully we'll be lifting that trophy at the end of the day, but we've got to go in there, assess conditions as well as we can, and adapt to the conditions as well.
Shubman Gill, India captain, said
[On losing the toss] We were bowling first. We have got three changes. Boom misses out, he's unavailable due to some knee injury. And so is Washington Sundar. Dube also misses out. KL comes in, Prince Yadav comes in, and Arshdeep comes back into the team. [On selecting Arshdeep Singh] We're not the one who relies on stats so much. We think he's a great bowler, and we were looking for four seamers on this ground. We have seen in the middle overs, spinners don't really offer much as compared to the fast bowlers. [On what India need to improve from the second ODI] I think we were in a great position up until the 25 overs of the match, and then we lost too many wickets in the middle overs, end of the middle overs. So hopefully, if you're in that kind of position, we post a good total close to 280-300. And then we have seen it's not easy to score freely in the past couple of matches. So hopefully, if we are able to get good runs and put the team in a comfortable position.
ENG vs IND, 3rd ODI: Playing XIs
England
Ben Duckett , Jacob Bethell, Joe Root, Harry Brook(c), Jos Buttler(w), Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Gus Atkinson, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid, Josh Tongue.
India
Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill (C), Virat Kohli , Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (WK), Axar Patel, Gurnoor Brar, Prince Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna.
Bumrah misses Lord's decider with injury; England bring in Tongue and bat
KL Rahul, Arshdeep Singh and Prince Yadav come in for India; England leave out Saqib Mahmood in favour of Josh Tongue
KL Rahul, Arshdeep Singh and Prince Yadav come in for India; England leave out Saqib Mahmood in favour of Josh Tongue
Manjot Kalra denies fixing allegations in LPL 2026
Former India Under-19 player Manjot Kalra has been remanded until July 31 in Colombo
Former India Under-19 player Manjot Kalra has been remanded until July 31 in Colombo
📢Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Gautam Gambhir share laugh during Indian team's High Commission visit
Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir share laugh during Indian team's High Commission visit (Source: BCCI)
The Indian Men's Cricket Team met with members of the Indian High Commission ahead of the third ODI against England at Lord's, interacting with members of the Indian diaspora during the visit.
The event, which took place on July 18, the day before the game, saw BCCI Vice-President Rajeev Shukla also at the venue, addressing the gathering along with head coach Gautam Gambhir , skipper Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer and Prasidh Krishna, who responded to questions from members of the diaspora.
During the visit, Indian stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma were seen interacting cheerfully with head coach Gautam Gambhir. Photographs from the event saw the trio seated together in the front row during the event, and also shared conversations and anecdotes among them.
The two veterans in the team have been in the news of late, along with their coach, for various reasons. Ahead of the series, fans noted cold interactions between Kohli and Gambhir during net sessions, which became a talking point due to past history between the pair. Rohit has been in the news with speculations over his retirement coming in the final ODI quashed by the BCCI ahead of the game.
Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir share laugh during Indian team's High Commission visit (Source: BCCI)
The Indian Men's Cricket Team met with members of the Indian High Commission ahead of the third ODI against England at Lord's, interacting with members of the Indian diaspora during the visit.
The event, which took place on July 18, the day before the game, saw BCCI Vice-President Rajeev Shukla also at the venue, addressing the gathering along with head coach Gautam Gambhir , skipper Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer and Prasidh Krishna, who responded to questions from members of the diaspora.
During the visit, Indian stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma were seen interacting cheerfully with head coach Gautam Gambhir. Photographs from the event saw the trio seated together in the front row during the event, and also shared conversations and anecdotes among them.
The two veterans in the team have been in the news of late, along with their coach, for various reasons. Ahead of the series, fans noted cold interactions between Kohli and Gambhir during net sessions, which became a talking point due to past history between the pair. Rohit has been in the news with speculations over his retirement coming in the final ODI quashed by the BCCI ahead of the game.
Zimbabwe opt to bat in series decider
Bangladesh were without Nahid Rana, who suffered a side strain on Friday
Bangladesh were without Nahid Rana, who suffered a side strain on Friday
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📢ENG vs IND 2026: Why are Indian and English players wearing black armbands at Lord's?
IND vs ENG, a moment of silence (Source: BCCI)
India and England are currently competing in the third and final ODI at the Lord's Cricket Ground in London on Sunday, July 19, with the series up for grab. This match is being played in the aftermath of the legendary Sir Garfield Sobers' demise.
The former West Indies all-rounder passed away on Friday and before the start of the third ODI, both teams observed a minute's silence to honour him. Apart from this homage, the players from both sides were seen wearing black armbands to show their respect to the deceased soul.
Garfield Sobers was arguably the best all-rounder to have played international cricket. He would have turned 90 years old on July 28. In 93 Tests during his illustrious career, Sobers scored 8032 runs at a staggering average of 57.78. This includes 30 fifties and 26 centuries. He had a highest score of 365*, which he smashed against Pakistan in 1958. With the ball, the iconic cricketer picked up 235 wickets at an average of 34.03.
Who will emerge victorious at Lord's?
The series is intriguingly poised at 1-1. India registered a morale-boosting six-wicket win in the first ODI at Edgbaston. However, the Three Lions stormed back into the series with a four-wicket win at the Sophia Gardens.
On Sunday, Harry Brook won the toss and opted to bat first. They made just one change to the team that won the second ODI. Josh Tongue came into the side in place of Saqib Mahmood. On the other hand, India made three changes to the line-up, two of them being forced on them.
Washington Sundar had been ruled out of this encounter due to a hamstring injury. At the toss, skipper Shubman Gill informed that Jasprit Bumrah has sustained a knee injury, which keeps him out of the series decider. The other player who missed out was all-rounder Shivam Dube. This is the final match in what has been a dramatic tour for India. After losing the T20I series against Ireland and England, they would be desperate to emerge victorious in the ODI rubber.
IND vs ENG, a moment of silence (Source: BCCI)
India and England are currently competing in the third and final ODI at the Lord's Cricket Ground in London on Sunday, July 19, with the series up for grab. This match is being played in the aftermath of the legendary Sir Garfield Sobers' demise.
The former West Indies all-rounder passed away on Friday and before the start of the third ODI, both teams observed a minute's silence to honour him. Apart from this homage, the players from both sides were seen wearing black armbands to show their respect to the deceased soul.
Garfield Sobers was arguably the best all-rounder to have played international cricket. He would have turned 90 years old on July 28. In 93 Tests during his illustrious career, Sobers scored 8032 runs at a staggering average of 57.78. This includes 30 fifties and 26 centuries. He had a highest score of 365*, which he smashed against Pakistan in 1958. With the ball, the iconic cricketer picked up 235 wickets at an average of 34.03.
Who will emerge victorious at Lord's?
The series is intriguingly poised at 1-1. India registered a morale-boosting six-wicket win in the first ODI at Edgbaston. However, the Three Lions stormed back into the series with a four-wicket win at the Sophia Gardens.
On Sunday, Harry Brook won the toss and opted to bat first. They made just one change to the team that won the second ODI. Josh Tongue came into the side in place of Saqib Mahmood. On the other hand, India made three changes to the line-up, two of them being forced on them.
Washington Sundar had been ruled out of this encounter due to a hamstring injury. At the toss, skipper Shubman Gill informed that Jasprit Bumrah has sustained a knee injury, which keeps him out of the series decider. The other player who missed out was all-rounder Shivam Dube. This is the final match in what has been a dramatic tour for India. After losing the T20I series against Ireland and England, they would be desperate to emerge victorious in the ODI rubber.
📢'Korbo Lorbo Jeetbo' - Shah Rukh Khan congratulates LA Knight Riders for MLC triumph
Los Angeles Knight Riders. (Photo Source: MLC)
Indian actor and Knight Riders Group co-owner Shah Rukh Khan shared a congratulatory message for his Los Angeles Knight Riders side, which lifted the 2026 Major League Cricket Trophy.
The Knight Riders lifted their first-ever MLC title after making the playoffs for the first time in the 2026 season. They beat a strong Washington Freedom side in the final at Oakland Stadium, winning by just a single run. The world-famous Bollywood actor congratulated his team and lauded players Sunil Narine, Andre Russell and captain Jason Holder along with the rest of the side, while also mentioning the 'Korbo, Lorbo, Jeetbo' slogan made popular by the Kolkata Knight Riders.
Watch SRK's appreciation post for LA Knight Riders' MLC championship below
The LAKR stadium. The championship….cricket in America….awesome @SunilPNarine74 @Jaseholder98 @Russell12A and all of the team. Absolutely outstanding. You all said we are here to win not just participate….and u showed it. Love u all….Korbo Lorbo Jeetbo!
— Shah Rukh Khan (@iamsrk) July 19, 2026
The Knight Riders came into the final after beating the San Francisco Unicorns in the qualifier. Batting first in the final, the Knight Riders looked down and out after being bowled out for 164 in 19.2 overs. Opening batter Andre Fletcher top-scored with a 27-ball 47. They started their defence in fine fashion, leaving the Unicorns reeling at 29 for 3.
A 65-run stand between Andreis Gous and Nikhil Chaudhary brought the team back into the game, and Obus Pienaar's 24-ball 53 almost took the game away from the Knight Riders. But Shadley van Schalkwyk held his nerve to defend 14 runs off the final over to ensure the Knights crept to a memorable win.
The ever-reliable Sunil Narine finished the season with the joint-highest wickets, picking up 18 scalps in 11 matches, bowling at a brilliant economy of 4.74. He saved his best for the final, finishing with figures of 3 for 13 in four overs, removing Mitch Owen, Steve Smith and Rachin Ravindra in the powerplay. Narine finished as both the Player of the Match and the Player of the Series for his all-round excellence throughout MLC 2026.
Los Angeles Knight Riders. (Photo Source: MLC)
Indian actor and Knight Riders Group co-owner Shah Rukh Khan shared a congratulatory message for his Los Angeles Knight Riders side, which lifted the 2026 Major League Cricket Trophy.
The Knight Riders lifted their first-ever MLC title after making the playoffs for the first time in the 2026 season. They beat a strong Washington Freedom side in the final at Oakland Stadium, winning by just a single run. The world-famous Bollywood actor congratulated his team and lauded players Sunil Narine, Andre Russell and captain Jason Holder along with the rest of the side, while also mentioning the 'Korbo, Lorbo, Jeetbo' slogan made popular by the Kolkata Knight Riders.
Watch SRK's appreciation post for LA Knight Riders' MLC championship below
The LAKR stadium. The championship….cricket in America….awesome @SunilPNarine74 @Jaseholder98 @Russell12A and all of the team. Absolutely outstanding. You all said we are here to win not just participate….and u showed it. Love u all….Korbo Lorbo Jeetbo!
— Shah Rukh Khan (@iamsrk) July 19, 2026
The Knight Riders came into the final after beating the San Francisco Unicorns in the qualifier. Batting first in the final, the Knight Riders looked down and out after being bowled out for 164 in 19.2 overs. Opening batter Andre Fletcher top-scored with a 27-ball 47. They started their defence in fine fashion, leaving the Unicorns reeling at 29 for 3.
A 65-run stand between Andreis Gous and Nikhil Chaudhary brought the team back into the game, and Obus Pienaar's 24-ball 53 almost took the game away from the Knight Riders. But Shadley van Schalkwyk held his nerve to defend 14 runs off the final over to ensure the Knights crept to a memorable win.
The ever-reliable Sunil Narine finished the season with the joint-highest wickets, picking up 18 scalps in 11 matches, bowling at a brilliant economy of 4.74. He saved his best for the final, finishing with figures of 3 for 13 in four overs, removing Mitch Owen, Steve Smith and Rachin Ravindra in the powerplay. Narine finished as both the Player of the Match and the Player of the Series for his all-round excellence throughout MLC 2026.
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📢[Watch] Legendary Yuvraj Singh rings iconic Lord's bell ahead of ODI series decider
Yuvraj Singh rang the bell at Lord's (Source: BCCI)
The legendary Yuvraj Singh ringing the iconic bell at the Lord's Cricket Ground in London ahead of the decisive third ODI between India and England on Sunday, July 19. Ahead of every international fixture at Lord's, there is an age-old tradition of stalwarts ringing the bell to call for a start to the proceedings.
Former India all-rounder Yuvraj rang the Lord's iconic five-minute bell before the third and final ODI, making fans reminisce his heroics from the famous NatWest 2002 final. Yuvraj was looking dapper in a well-tailored suit while he was ringing the bell located outside the Bowlers' Writing Room in the Pavilion. The crowd cheered him on as he was the cynosure of one of the most cherished pre-game rituals at the Home of Cricket.
Standing next to Yuvraj was his wife, Bollywood actor Hazel Keech, and other officials and members of the Maryleborne Cricket Club (MCC). Former West Indies captains Clive Lloyd and Brian Lara were also present at the venue, waiting to watch the high-voltage clash between two arch-rivals.
Watch the video below:
A cherished guest in the house! 🙌#TeamIndia great Yuvraj Singh rang the bell before the start of play at Lord's today 👌#ENGvIND | @YUVSTRONG12 pic.twitter.com/KSkUyD5H9v
— BCCI (@BCCI) July 19, 2026
England openers make India toil in first innings
After Harry Brook won the toss and opted to bat first, he would have been hoping for a solid start from his opening duo of Jacob Bethell and Ben Duckett. Both of them played some fantastic cricket and brought up a 150-run partnership in the 24th over.
Soon, they broke Jason Roy and Jonny Bairstow's record for the highest first-wicket partnership in ODIs between India and England. Both batters have reached their half-centuries and are well on course to convert them into three-figure scores. India need to pick up wickets through the middle overs to bring the game back in the balance.
Yuvraj Singh rang the bell at Lord's (Source: BCCI)
The legendary Yuvraj Singh ringing the iconic bell at the Lord's Cricket Ground in London ahead of the decisive third ODI between India and England on Sunday, July 19. Ahead of every international fixture at Lord's, there is an age-old tradition of stalwarts ringing the bell to call for a start to the proceedings.
Former India all-rounder Yuvraj rang the Lord's iconic five-minute bell before the third and final ODI, making fans reminisce his heroics from the famous NatWest 2002 final. Yuvraj was looking dapper in a well-tailored suit while he was ringing the bell located outside the Bowlers' Writing Room in the Pavilion. The crowd cheered him on as he was the cynosure of one of the most cherished pre-game rituals at the Home of Cricket.
Standing next to Yuvraj was his wife, Bollywood actor Hazel Keech, and other officials and members of the Maryleborne Cricket Club (MCC). Former West Indies captains Clive Lloyd and Brian Lara were also present at the venue, waiting to watch the high-voltage clash between two arch-rivals.
Watch the video below:
A cherished guest in the house! 🙌#TeamIndia great Yuvraj Singh rang the bell before the start of play at Lord's today 👌#ENGvIND | @YUVSTRONG12 pic.twitter.com/KSkUyD5H9v
— BCCI (@BCCI) July 19, 2026
England openers make India toil in first innings
After Harry Brook won the toss and opted to bat first, he would have been hoping for a solid start from his opening duo of Jacob Bethell and Ben Duckett. Both of them played some fantastic cricket and brought up a 150-run partnership in the 24th over.
Soon, they broke Jason Roy and Jonny Bairstow's record for the highest first-wicket partnership in ODIs between India and England. Both batters have reached their half-centuries and are well on course to convert them into three-figure scores. India need to pick up wickets through the middle overs to bring the game back in the balance.
📢Former India Under-19 cricketer Manjot Kalra remanded by court in LPL corruption case
Manjot Kalra. (Photo Source: Twitter)
Former India Under-19 player Majot Kalra has been remanded until July 31 by the Magistrate's Court in Colombo after his arrest over corruption charges during the 2026 Lanka Premier League season.
Kalra, co-owner of the Jaffna Kings, was taken into custody ahead of the start of the season on July 17 on allegations of match fixing, along with co-owner Mayank Goel.
The court heard that Kalra had approached players Bhanuka Rajapaksa , Dunith Wellalage and Avishka Fernando, members of the Kings' side, and allegedly offered the players sums of money over USD 30,000 to influence the results of games. The players were allegedly in possession of voice recordings of phone calls and video evidence to support the case.
The defence counsel rejected all allegations, asserting that there was no evidence to support the allegations. Bail was sought but denied on the grounds of preserving the investigation. Kalra denied the charges, and his representatives released a statement which affirmed his cooperation with the procedures of the court.
"Having had the privilege of representing India with honour, Mr. Kalra fully understands the responsibility and integrity expected of those associated with Indian sport. Throughout his career, he has remained committed to upholding those values. Mr. Kalra became a co-owner in the league as a minority shareholder, entering the venture in good faith and with complete integrity.
Prior to his association, the league conducted all requisite background and due diligence checks, which confirmed his clean reputation. As the matter is currently under investigation, Mr. Kalra will continue to cooperate fully with the authorities and will refrain from making any further comments at this stage. He remains confident that the truth will prevail," read a statement.
Following the approach from Kalra, the players reportedly contacted the Sri Lanka Police's Special Investigations Unit (SIU) for the Prevention of Offences Relating to Sports. They then, on the instructions of the SIU, negotiated payments of LKR 11.5 million, of which LKR 9.5 million was an advance. The police arrested Kalra and another unnamed associate when the latter brought the bag with the advance payments to the agreed location.
"Senior Counsel Mr K Wasantha S Fernando, Attorney at Law and his able team of Junior Attorneys at Law are currently taking care of his interest and have expressed the confidence in disproving and negating the allegations leveled against Mr Kalra and will ensure all possible steps are taken within the provisions of law to bring all perpetrators involved in fixing Mr Kalra into this undesired situation to light while assisting law enforcement officers and Honorable Court to arrive at Justice in the right manner," it further added.
Manjot Kalra. (Photo Source: Twitter)
Former India Under-19 player Majot Kalra has been remanded until July 31 by the Magistrate's Court in Colombo after his arrest over corruption charges during the 2026 Lanka Premier League season.
Kalra, co-owner of the Jaffna Kings, was taken into custody ahead of the start of the season on July 17 on allegations of match fixing, along with co-owner Mayank Goel.
The court heard that Kalra had approached players Bhanuka Rajapaksa , Dunith Wellalage and Avishka Fernando, members of the Kings' side, and allegedly offered the players sums of money over USD 30,000 to influence the results of games. The players were allegedly in possession of voice recordings of phone calls and video evidence to support the case.
The defence counsel rejected all allegations, asserting that there was no evidence to support the allegations. Bail was sought but denied on the grounds of preserving the investigation. Kalra denied the charges, and his representatives released a statement which affirmed his cooperation with the procedures of the court.
"Having had the privilege of representing India with honour, Mr. Kalra fully understands the responsibility and integrity expected of those associated with Indian sport. Throughout his career, he has remained committed to upholding those values. Mr. Kalra became a co-owner in the league as a minority shareholder, entering the venture in good faith and with complete integrity.
Prior to his association, the league conducted all requisite background and due diligence checks, which confirmed his clean reputation. As the matter is currently under investigation, Mr. Kalra will continue to cooperate fully with the authorities and will refrain from making any further comments at this stage. He remains confident that the truth will prevail," read a statement.
Following the approach from Kalra, the players reportedly contacted the Sri Lanka Police's Special Investigations Unit (SIU) for the Prevention of Offences Relating to Sports. They then, on the instructions of the SIU, negotiated payments of LKR 11.5 million, of which LKR 9.5 million was an advance. The police arrested Kalra and another unnamed associate when the latter brought the bag with the advance payments to the agreed location.
"Senior Counsel Mr K Wasantha S Fernando, Attorney at Law and his able team of Junior Attorneys at Law are currently taking care of his interest and have expressed the confidence in disproving and negating the allegations leveled against Mr Kalra and will ensure all possible steps are taken within the provisions of law to bring all perpetrators involved in fixing Mr Kalra into this undesired situation to light while assisting law enforcement officers and Honorable Court to arrive at Justice in the right manner," it further added.
New Zealand bowl with Mitchell injured; West Indies make four changes
Greaves, Jangoo, Forde, and Seales replaced Campbell, Hetmyer, Paul and Pierre
Greaves, Jangoo, Forde, and Seales replaced Campbell, Hetmyer, Paul and Pierre
📢The Hundred W: Match 1, MIL W vs SRL W Match Prediction – Who will win today’s LPL match between Mi London Women vs Sunrisers Leeds Women?
The Hundred W: Match 1, MIL W vs SRL W Match Prediction – Who will win today’s LPL match between Mi London Women vs Sunrisers Leeds Women?. (Photo Source: MILondon/SRH)
Mi London Women (MIL W) will take on Sunrisers Leeds Women (SRL W) in the opening match of The Hundred Women's Competition 2026 at the Kennington Oval, London, on Tuesday, July 21. With a new season getting underway, both teams will be eager to start their campaigns on a winning note and build early momentum.
Mi London Women boast a star-studded squad packed with proven match-winners. The likes of Hayley Matthews, Amelia Kerr , Danni Wyatt-Hodge, and captain Hollie Armitage provide quality across departments, making them one of the strongest outfits in the competition.
Meanwhile, Sunrisers Leeds Women have assembled an equally competitive unit led by Danielle Gibson. They will rely on experienced internationals such as Deepti Sharma, Annabel Sutherland, Jess Jonassen, Phoebe Litchfield, and Kate Cross to make an immediate impact.
MIL W vs SRL W: Match Details
Match
Mi London Women vs Sunrisers Leeds Women, The Hundred Women's Competition 2026
Date and Time (IST)
Tuesday, July 21, 2026, 7:10 PM (IST)
Venue
Kennington Oval, London
Broadcast and Live-Streaming
FanCode
Kennington Oval: Pitch Report
The surface at the Kennington Oval is expected to offer a balanced contest between bat and ball. Batters are likely to enjoy the conditions early on, with the new ball coming nicely onto the bat. However, seamers can extract movement during the powerplay, while spinners are expected to play an important role in the middle overs.
MIL W vs SRL W: Head-to-Head Record
Matches Played
4
Won By MIL W
0
Won By SRL W
4
No Result
0
First-ever Fixture
July 31, 2021
Most Recent Fixture
August 23, 2025
MIL W vs SRL W: Predicted Playing 11s
Mi London Women:
Danni Wyatt-Hodge, Francesca Sweet, Hayley Matthews, Hollie Armitage (C), Amelia Kerr, Alice Davidson-Richards, Kira Chathli (WK), Nicola Carey, Tara Norris, Kirstie Gordon, Alexa Stonehouse
Sunrisers Leeds Women:
Lauren Winfield-Hill (WK), Phoebe Litchfield , Bryony Smith, Deepti Sharma, Annabel Sutherland, Danielle Gibson (C), Jess Jonassen, Kate Cross, Hannah Baker, Rachel Slater, Cassidy McCarthy
MIL W vs SRL W: Probable Best Performers of the Match
Probable Best Batter: Hayley Matthews
Hayley Matthews will be one of the biggest players to watch in the tournament opener. The West Indies all-rounder has established herself as one of the most destructive batters in women's franchise cricket, capable of taking the attack to the opposition right from the start.
Probable Best Bowler: Jess Jonassen
Jess Jonassen could emerge as the difference-maker with the ball for Sunrisers Leeds Women. The experienced Australian left-arm spinner has a wealth of experience in franchise cricket and is known for her impeccable control in the middle overs. Her variations and ability to pick up wickets at crucial stages could make life difficult for Mi London's strong batting lineup.
Today's Match Prediction : The chasing team to win the match
The Hundred W: Match 1, MIL W vs SRL W Match Prediction – Who will win today’s LPL match between Mi London Women vs Sunrisers Leeds Women?. (Photo Source: MILondon/SRH)
Mi London Women (MIL W) will take on Sunrisers Leeds Women (SRL W) in the opening match of The Hundred Women's Competition 2026 at the Kennington Oval, London, on Tuesday, July 21. With a new season getting underway, both teams will be eager to start their campaigns on a winning note and build early momentum.
Mi London Women boast a star-studded squad packed with proven match-winners. The likes of Hayley Matthews, Amelia Kerr , Danni Wyatt-Hodge, and captain Hollie Armitage provide quality across departments, making them one of the strongest outfits in the competition.
Meanwhile, Sunrisers Leeds Women have assembled an equally competitive unit led by Danielle Gibson. They will rely on experienced internationals such as Deepti Sharma, Annabel Sutherland, Jess Jonassen, Phoebe Litchfield, and Kate Cross to make an immediate impact.
MIL W vs SRL W: Match Details
Match
Mi London Women vs Sunrisers Leeds Women, The Hundred Women's Competition 2026
Date and Time (IST)
Tuesday, July 21, 2026, 7:10 PM (IST)
Venue
Kennington Oval, London
Broadcast and Live-Streaming
FanCode
Kennington Oval: Pitch Report
The surface at the Kennington Oval is expected to offer a balanced contest between bat and ball. Batters are likely to enjoy the conditions early on, with the new ball coming nicely onto the bat. However, seamers can extract movement during the powerplay, while spinners are expected to play an important role in the middle overs.
MIL W vs SRL W: Head-to-Head Record
Matches Played
4
Won By MIL W
0
Won By SRL W
4
No Result
0
First-ever Fixture
July 31, 2021
Most Recent Fixture
August 23, 2025
MIL W vs SRL W: Predicted Playing 11s
Mi London Women:
Danni Wyatt-Hodge, Francesca Sweet, Hayley Matthews, Hollie Armitage (C), Amelia Kerr, Alice Davidson-Richards, Kira Chathli (WK), Nicola Carey, Tara Norris, Kirstie Gordon, Alexa Stonehouse
Sunrisers Leeds Women:
Lauren Winfield-Hill (WK), Phoebe Litchfield , Bryony Smith, Deepti Sharma, Annabel Sutherland, Danielle Gibson (C), Jess Jonassen, Kate Cross, Hannah Baker, Rachel Slater, Cassidy McCarthy
MIL W vs SRL W: Probable Best Performers of the Match
Probable Best Batter: Hayley Matthews
Hayley Matthews will be one of the biggest players to watch in the tournament opener. The West Indies all-rounder has established herself as one of the most destructive batters in women's franchise cricket, capable of taking the attack to the opposition right from the start.
Probable Best Bowler: Jess Jonassen
Jess Jonassen could emerge as the difference-maker with the ball for Sunrisers Leeds Women. The experienced Australian left-arm spinner has a wealth of experience in franchise cricket and is known for her impeccable control in the middle overs. Her variations and ability to pick up wickets at crucial stages could make life difficult for Mi London's strong batting lineup.
Today's Match Prediction : The chasing team to win the match
Bangladesh win dramatic finale to clinch T20I series against Zimbabwe
Tanzid Hasan anchored the chase with a half-century as Bangladesh won with two balls to spare
Tanzid Hasan anchored the chase with a half-century as Bangladesh won with two balls to spare
Duckett 141 headlines England rampage to 387
It is the highest List A total at Lord's, built by a new highest individual ODI score at the venue, in the highest partnership for any wicket against India thanks to Duckett and Bethell
It is the highest List A total at Lord's, built by a new highest individual ODI score at the venue, in the highest partnership for any wicket against India thanks to Duckett and Bethell