[WATCH] Tri-Nation Series 2026: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi pulls off sensational rebound catch in India A's win over Afghanistan A
India A won the match by 101 runs.
India A won the match by 101 runs.
📢[WATCH] Tri-Nation Series 2026: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi pulls off sensational rebound catch in India A's win over Afghanistan A
[WATCH] Tri-Nation Series 2026: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi pulls off sensational rebound catch in India A's win over Afghanistan A (Photo Source: Sony LIV)
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi produced a moment of brilliance in the field during the tri-series clash against Afghanistan A on June 17 in Dambulla. India A tightened their grip on the contest as they secured a commanding 101-run victory and booked their place in the tournament final.
The stunning effort came in the sixth over of Afghanistan A’s chase. Fast bowler Anshul Kamboj delivered a back-of-a-length ball on middle stump to Khalid Taniwal. The batter appeared to be early on the shot as the ball held up slightly off the surface. Attempting a flick, Taniwal chipped the ball into the air towards the infield.
Stationed nearby, Sooryavanshi reacted instantly and leapt to his left in an attempt to complete a one-handed catch. Although he managed to get his hand to the ball, he could not hold onto it on the first attempt. However, the youngster showed remarkable awareness.
Sooryavanshi pulls off a stunner! 🤯
Watch the #TalentTVCup LIVE on #SonyLIV & #SonySportsNetwork 📺 pic.twitter.com/lpQwBXX79c
— Sony LIV (@SonyLIV) June 17, 2026
As the ball popped out, he quickly turned around and dived forward to grab it safely on the rebound with both hands before it could touch the ground. The incredible catch sent Taniwal back to the pavilion for 13 runs and drew applause from teammates and spectators alike.
Earlier, India A posted a formidable total of 319/9 in their allotted 50 overs after being asked to bat. Several batters made valuable contributions, with Priyansh Arya scoring 58, Tilak Varma adding 59, and Kumar Kushagra also chipping in with 58 runs. For Afghanistan A, Faridoon Dawoodzai, Abdollah Ahmadzai, and Farmanullah picked up two wickets each.
In reply, Afghanistan A struggled to keep pace with the required run rate and were eventually bowled out for 218 in 36.5 overs. Bahir Shah was the top scorer with 57 runs, but lacked substantial support from the other end. India A spinner Nishant Sindhu starred with the ball, claiming 4/31 to earn the Player of the Match award, while Yash Thakur contributed with two wickets as India A sealed a convincing win.
[WATCH] Tri-Nation Series 2026: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi pulls off sensational rebound catch in India A's win over Afghanistan A (Photo Source: Sony LIV)
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi produced a moment of brilliance in the field during the tri-series clash against Afghanistan A on June 17 in Dambulla. India A tightened their grip on the contest as they secured a commanding 101-run victory and booked their place in the tournament final.
The stunning effort came in the sixth over of Afghanistan A’s chase. Fast bowler Anshul Kamboj delivered a back-of-a-length ball on middle stump to Khalid Taniwal. The batter appeared to be early on the shot as the ball held up slightly off the surface. Attempting a flick, Taniwal chipped the ball into the air towards the infield.
Stationed nearby, Sooryavanshi reacted instantly and leapt to his left in an attempt to complete a one-handed catch. Although he managed to get his hand to the ball, he could not hold onto it on the first attempt. However, the youngster showed remarkable awareness.
Sooryavanshi pulls off a stunner! 🤯
Watch the #TalentTVCup LIVE on #SonyLIV & #SonySportsNetwork 📺 pic.twitter.com/lpQwBXX79c
— Sony LIV (@SonyLIV) June 17, 2026
As the ball popped out, he quickly turned around and dived forward to grab it safely on the rebound with both hands before it could touch the ground. The incredible catch sent Taniwal back to the pavilion for 13 runs and drew applause from teammates and spectators alike.
Earlier, India A posted a formidable total of 319/9 in their allotted 50 overs after being asked to bat. Several batters made valuable contributions, with Priyansh Arya scoring 58, Tilak Varma adding 59, and Kumar Kushagra also chipping in with 58 runs. For Afghanistan A, Faridoon Dawoodzai, Abdollah Ahmadzai, and Farmanullah picked up two wickets each.
In reply, Afghanistan A struggled to keep pace with the required run rate and were eventually bowled out for 218 in 36.5 overs. Bahir Shah was the top scorer with 57 runs, but lacked substantial support from the other end. India A spinner Nishant Sindhu starred with the ball, claiming 4/31 to earn the Player of the Match award, while Yash Thakur contributed with two wickets as India A sealed a convincing win.
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MPL T20 2026: Match 35, JRL vs RNE Match Prediction – Who will win today’s MPL T20 match between Jabalpur Royal Lions vs Royal Nimar Eagles?
Jabalpur Royal Lions (JRL) lock horns with Royal Nimar Eagles (RNE) in match No. 35 of the ongoing Madhya Pradesh T20 League at the Holkar Stadium in Indore on Thursday, June 18.
Jabalpur Royal Lions (JRL) lock horns with Royal Nimar Eagles (RNE) in match No. 35 of the ongoing Madhya Pradesh T20 League at the Holkar Stadium in Indore on Thursday, June 18.
📢MPL T20 2026: Match 35, JRL vs RNE Match Prediction – Who will win today’s MPL T20 match between Jabalpur Royal Lions vs Royal Nimar Eagles?
Jabalpur Royal Lions and Royal Nimars Eagles. (Photo Source: MPL)
Jabalpur Royal Lions (JRL) lock horns with Royal Nimar Eagles (RNE) in match No. 35 of the ongoing Madhya Pradesh T20 League at the Holkar Stadium in Indore on Thursday, June 18.
Only net run rate separates these two teams on the points table. Jabalpur Royal Lions find themselves at No. 4, with four wins and one defeat from five matches. The Eagles have an identical win-loss record after playing five games, but they are placed third thanks to a better net run rate.
The Royal Lions are coming into this clash on the back of an eight-wicket defeat to the Rewa Jaguars. Meanwhile, the Eagles are on a four-match winning streak, having defeated the Indore Pink Panthers by eight wickets in their last appearance.
JRL vs RNE: Match Details
Match
Jabalpur Royal Lions vs Royal Nimar Eagles, Match 35 , Madhya Pradesh T20 League 2026
Date and Time (IST)
Thursday, June 18, 7:30 PM
Venue
Holkar Stadium, Indore
Broadcast and Live Streaming
JioStar Network Channels and JioHotstar (App & Website)
Holkar Stadium, Indore: Pitch Report
The pitches at the Holkar Stadium in Indore have been brilliant for batting so far. Defending totals haven't been easy, with the pitches showing no signs of wear and tear in the second innings. The captain who wins the toss would want to field first and plan the run-chase according to the target set for them.
JRL vs RNE: Head-to-Head T20 Record
This is going to be the first meeting between Jabalpur Royal Lions and Royal Nimar Eagles.
JRL vs RNE: Predicted Playing XIs
Jabalpur Royal Lions:
Arpit Gaud, Ajay Rohera (WK), Akarsh Singh, Nayanraj Mewada, Ritik Tada, Vedant Awasthi, Sanjog Nijjar, Rahul Batham (C), Akshay Sharma, Pankaj Patel, Puneet Datey
Royal Nimar Eagles:
Dharmesh Patel, Himanshu Mantri (WK), Kanishk Dubey, Anand Bais, Saransh Jain (C), Shivansh Chaturvedi, Abhishekh Mavi, Parush Mandal, Kartik Rajoriya, Devendra Singh Katheit, Kumar Kartikeya
JRL vs RNE: Probable Best Performers of the Match
Probable Best Batter: Ajay Rohera
Jabalpur's wicketkeeper-batter Ajay Rohera could be the batter to watch out for. He has amassed 268 runs in five matches at an average of 67 and a strike rate of 165.43. Rohera will look to get his team off to a flying start.
Probable Best Bowler: Puneet Datey
The 31-year-old Puneet Datey has accounted for 10 wickets this season after playing five matches. He has a fine economy rate of 7.39. The experienced right-arm seamer will have a key role to play with the new ball.
Today's Match Prediction : Chasing team to win the match
Jabalpur Royal Lions and Royal Nimars Eagles. (Photo Source: MPL)
Jabalpur Royal Lions (JRL) lock horns with Royal Nimar Eagles (RNE) in match No. 35 of the ongoing Madhya Pradesh T20 League at the Holkar Stadium in Indore on Thursday, June 18.
Only net run rate separates these two teams on the points table. Jabalpur Royal Lions find themselves at No. 4, with four wins and one defeat from five matches. The Eagles have an identical win-loss record after playing five games, but they are placed third thanks to a better net run rate.
The Royal Lions are coming into this clash on the back of an eight-wicket defeat to the Rewa Jaguars. Meanwhile, the Eagles are on a four-match winning streak, having defeated the Indore Pink Panthers by eight wickets in their last appearance.
JRL vs RNE: Match Details
Match
Jabalpur Royal Lions vs Royal Nimar Eagles, Match 35 , Madhya Pradesh T20 League 2026
Date and Time (IST)
Thursday, June 18, 7:30 PM
Venue
Holkar Stadium, Indore
Broadcast and Live Streaming
JioStar Network Channels and JioHotstar (App & Website)
Holkar Stadium, Indore: Pitch Report
The pitches at the Holkar Stadium in Indore have been brilliant for batting so far. Defending totals haven't been easy, with the pitches showing no signs of wear and tear in the second innings. The captain who wins the toss would want to field first and plan the run-chase according to the target set for them.
JRL vs RNE: Head-to-Head T20 Record
This is going to be the first meeting between Jabalpur Royal Lions and Royal Nimar Eagles.
JRL vs RNE: Predicted Playing XIs
Jabalpur Royal Lions:
Arpit Gaud, Ajay Rohera (WK), Akarsh Singh, Nayanraj Mewada, Ritik Tada, Vedant Awasthi, Sanjog Nijjar, Rahul Batham (C), Akshay Sharma, Pankaj Patel, Puneet Datey
Royal Nimar Eagles:
Dharmesh Patel, Himanshu Mantri (WK), Kanishk Dubey, Anand Bais, Saransh Jain (C), Shivansh Chaturvedi, Abhishekh Mavi, Parush Mandal, Kartik Rajoriya, Devendra Singh Katheit, Kumar Kartikeya
JRL vs RNE: Probable Best Performers of the Match
Probable Best Batter: Ajay Rohera
Jabalpur's wicketkeeper-batter Ajay Rohera could be the batter to watch out for. He has amassed 268 runs in five matches at an average of 67 and a strike rate of 165.43. Rohera will look to get his team off to a flying start.
Probable Best Bowler: Puneet Datey
The 31-year-old Puneet Datey has accounted for 10 wickets this season after playing five matches. He has a fine economy rate of 7.39. The experienced right-arm seamer will have a key role to play with the new ball.
Today's Match Prediction : Chasing team to win the match
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📢BAN vs AUS 2026: ‘A childhood dream’ - Joel Davies marks Australia debut with match-winning spell
BAN vs AUS 2026: ‘A childhood dream’ - Joel Davies marks Australia debut with match-winning spell (Source : ausmencricket on IG)
Australian left-arm spinner Joel Davies said he had fulfilled a childhood dream by making his international debut and celebrated the occasion with a match-winning spell in the first T20I against Bangladesh in Chattogram. He became the first Australian player in three years to claim three or more wickets on T20I debut.
The match also produced two notable milestones for Australia. For the first time in a T20I innings, Australian spinners accounted for nine wickets, while it was also the first instance of spinners taking nine wickets in a T20I innings in Bangladesh. Davies played a key role, dismissing Parvez Hossain Emon and Abdul Gaffar Saqlain, both caught in the deep after being deceived by his flight and subtle turn. He finished with impressive figures of 3 for 17.
"I think coming over here, I thought it might be spinning a little bit more than it actually did, but to still get enough out of the wicket. It has been a childhood dream to play for Australia in any format. So to get that done today was a massive achievement for me,” said Davies as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.
"I think here in Bangladesh the grounds are a fair bit smaller than in Australia, so if there were any parts of the ground that were slightly bigger, I had to use that to my advantage. With the wind going against the big boundary, it was Mitch's idea to make me hit them to that big boundary and I think I got two wickets from that, so it was a nice plan by him,” he added.
Davies described bowling alongside Adam Zampa, who was named Player of the Match for his figures of 3 for 18, as a memorable experience. Australia's other debutant, Nikhil Chaudhary, also impressed, returning 1 for 14 after having Rishad Hossain caught in the deep. Meanwhile, Matt Renshaw, arguably Australia's standout bowler on the tour, claimed 2 for 26 as the visitors' spin attack dominated Bangladesh in the opening T20I.
"It was pretty surreal. I think I've grown up just watching him play on TV, and now to be a teammate with him was something I never thought I'd experience. But I think he's so smart on the field and off the field. He's smart on the field and he would pick my brain to make sure that I had the right approach to how I wanted to get them out and how I wanted to build some pressure. So it was really nice having him by my side,” said Davies.
BAN vs AUS 2026: ‘A childhood dream’ - Joel Davies marks Australia debut with match-winning spell (Source : ausmencricket on IG)
Australian left-arm spinner Joel Davies said he had fulfilled a childhood dream by making his international debut and celebrated the occasion with a match-winning spell in the first T20I against Bangladesh in Chattogram. He became the first Australian player in three years to claim three or more wickets on T20I debut.
The match also produced two notable milestones for Australia. For the first time in a T20I innings, Australian spinners accounted for nine wickets, while it was also the first instance of spinners taking nine wickets in a T20I innings in Bangladesh. Davies played a key role, dismissing Parvez Hossain Emon and Abdul Gaffar Saqlain, both caught in the deep after being deceived by his flight and subtle turn. He finished with impressive figures of 3 for 17.
"I think coming over here, I thought it might be spinning a little bit more than it actually did, but to still get enough out of the wicket. It has been a childhood dream to play for Australia in any format. So to get that done today was a massive achievement for me,” said Davies as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.
"I think here in Bangladesh the grounds are a fair bit smaller than in Australia, so if there were any parts of the ground that were slightly bigger, I had to use that to my advantage. With the wind going against the big boundary, it was Mitch's idea to make me hit them to that big boundary and I think I got two wickets from that, so it was a nice plan by him,” he added.
Davies described bowling alongside Adam Zampa, who was named Player of the Match for his figures of 3 for 18, as a memorable experience. Australia's other debutant, Nikhil Chaudhary, also impressed, returning 1 for 14 after having Rishad Hossain caught in the deep. Meanwhile, Matt Renshaw, arguably Australia's standout bowler on the tour, claimed 2 for 26 as the visitors' spin attack dominated Bangladesh in the opening T20I.
"It was pretty surreal. I think I've grown up just watching him play on TV, and now to be a teammate with him was something I never thought I'd experience. But I think he's so smart on the field and off the field. He's smart on the field and he would pick my brain to make sure that I had the right approach to how I wanted to get them out and how I wanted to build some pressure. So it was really nice having him by my side,” said Davies.
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BAN vs AUS 2026: ‘A childhood dream’ - Joel Davies marks Australia debut with match-winning spell
Joel Davies returned with the figures of 3/17.
Joel Davies returned with the figures of 3/17.
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Nat Sciver-Brunt ruled out of England’s next two T20 World Cup matches with calf injury
England Women are leading the points table in the group with four points.
England Women are leading the points table in the group with four points.
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📢Nat Sciver-Brunt ruled out of England’s next two T20 World Cup matches with calf injury
Nat Sciver-Brunt ruled out of England’s next two T20 World Cup matches with calf injury (Photo Source: Harry Murphy - ECB/ECB via Getty Images)
England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt has been ruled out of the team's next two fixtures after scans confirmed she suffered another calf strain while batting against Ireland. Sciver-Brunt retired hurt on 48 during England's four-wicket victory in Southampton after experiencing tightness in the same left calf muscle she injured while playing county cricket earlier this summer.
The all-rounder had only recently returned to action, having been cleared to feature in warm-up matches against Australia and India last week as a specialist batter. However, the recurrence of the injury has forced England to manage her workload carefully. In a statement, the England and Wales Cricket Board confirmed that Sciver-Brunt will miss England’s upcoming matches against Scotland and West Indies as she continues her recovery.
"Nat will continue to be monitored and assessed by the England medical team as she undertakes her rehab while remaining in the squad," the statement said as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.
England remained hopeful that captain Nat Sciver-Brunt could return for their final group-stage fixture against New Zealand Women's at The Oval on June 27, despite being ruled out of the next two matches with a calf injury. In her absence, spin-bowling all-rounder Charlie Dean will lead the side, having previously captained England during recent bilateral series victories over New Zealand and India.
Sciver-Brunt's absence is a major setback for England, given her impressive form at the tournament, where she has scored 94 runs without being dismissed. Sophia Dunkley, the reserve batter in the squad, is expected to replace her for England's clash against Scotland at Headingley on June 20.
Former captain Heather Knight expressed confidence in the team’s ability to cope without Sciver-Brunt, pointing to England’s strong performances and series successes under Dean’s leadership in recent months. England will take on Scotland Women on Saturday, June 20 at Leeds, Headingley.
"We've been able to do things really well without Nat. I think Deano did a brilliant job stepping into Nat's shoes,” said Knight.
Nat Sciver-Brunt ruled out of England’s next two T20 World Cup matches with calf injury (Photo Source: Harry Murphy - ECB/ECB via Getty Images)
England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt has been ruled out of the team's next two fixtures after scans confirmed she suffered another calf strain while batting against Ireland. Sciver-Brunt retired hurt on 48 during England's four-wicket victory in Southampton after experiencing tightness in the same left calf muscle she injured while playing county cricket earlier this summer.
The all-rounder had only recently returned to action, having been cleared to feature in warm-up matches against Australia and India last week as a specialist batter. However, the recurrence of the injury has forced England to manage her workload carefully. In a statement, the England and Wales Cricket Board confirmed that Sciver-Brunt will miss England’s upcoming matches against Scotland and West Indies as she continues her recovery.
"Nat will continue to be monitored and assessed by the England medical team as she undertakes her rehab while remaining in the squad," the statement said as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.
England remained hopeful that captain Nat Sciver-Brunt could return for their final group-stage fixture against New Zealand Women's at The Oval on June 27, despite being ruled out of the next two matches with a calf injury. In her absence, spin-bowling all-rounder Charlie Dean will lead the side, having previously captained England during recent bilateral series victories over New Zealand and India.
Sciver-Brunt's absence is a major setback for England, given her impressive form at the tournament, where she has scored 94 runs without being dismissed. Sophia Dunkley, the reserve batter in the squad, is expected to replace her for England's clash against Scotland at Headingley on June 20.
Former captain Heather Knight expressed confidence in the team’s ability to cope without Sciver-Brunt, pointing to England’s strong performances and series successes under Dean’s leadership in recent months. England will take on Scotland Women on Saturday, June 20 at Leeds, Headingley.
"We've been able to do things really well without Nat. I think Deano did a brilliant job stepping into Nat's shoes,” said Knight.
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s the next match?
The third ODI in this three-match series takes place on Saturday, June 20, at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.
The third ODI in this three-match series takes place on Saturday, June 20, at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.
IND vs AFG 2026: India vs Afghanistan Highlights & Review – 2nd ODI
India won the second ODI by 170 runs to win the three-match series.
India won the second ODI by 170 runs to win the three-match series.
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Ireland suffer injury blow as Ava Canning ruled out of T20 World Cup 2026
Ireland Women have lost two games so far in the World Cup.
Ireland Women have lost two games so far in the World Cup.
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📢Ireland suffer injury blow as Ava Canning ruled out of T20 World Cup 2026
Ireland suffer injury blow as Ava Canning ruled out of T20 World Cup 2026 (Photo Source: George Wood - ECB/ECB via Getty Images)
Ireland have drafted in Jane Maguire as an injury replacement for Ava Canning, who has been ruled out of the Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 after suffering a stress fracture in her back. The replacement was approved by the tournament’s technical committee on Wednesday, June 17, with Maguire set to be available for selection for Ireland’s upcoming clash against New Zealand Women on Friday, June 19.
Canning had already missed Ireland’s second group-stage fixture against England, where she was replaced by Louise Little. Despite a spirited effort from the Irish bowling attack, the team fell to a four-wicket defeat against the hosts in Southampton. The loss followed their opening-game setback against Scotland Women, leaving Ireland winless after two matches in the tournament.
Maguire’s inclusion marks an encouraging comeback for the young pacer, who had been in danger of missing the World Cup altogether after suffering a knee injury during domestic cricket in early May. However, an ahead-of-schedule recovery has earned her a place in the squad, where she joins her sister, Aimee Maguire. The siblings will now be part of Ireland’s bid to secure their first-ever victory in Women’s T20 World Cup history.
Ireland’s campaign began with a 40-run defeat to Scotland, although Canning impressed with figures of 3/27. Batter Amy Hunter top-scored with 39 runs in that contest. In the second match against England, Aimee Maguire and Orla Prendergast picked up two wickets apiece, while Prendergast and Little made useful contributions with the bat, though the rest of the batting unit struggled to make an impact.
Ireland will next face the White Ferns at The Rose Bowl, Southampton on June 19, hoping to bounce back and keep their campaign alive with a much-needed victory.
Ireland squad:
Gaby Lewis (c), Christina Coulter Reilly, Alana Dalzell, Georgina Dempsey, Amy Hunter, Arlene Kelly, Louise Little, Aimee Maguire, Jane Maguire, Lara McBride, Cara Murray, Leah Paul, Orla Prendergast, Rebecca Stokell, Alice Tector
Ireland suffer injury blow as Ava Canning ruled out of T20 World Cup 2026 (Photo Source: George Wood - ECB/ECB via Getty Images)
Ireland have drafted in Jane Maguire as an injury replacement for Ava Canning, who has been ruled out of the Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 after suffering a stress fracture in her back. The replacement was approved by the tournament’s technical committee on Wednesday, June 17, with Maguire set to be available for selection for Ireland’s upcoming clash against New Zealand Women on Friday, June 19.
Canning had already missed Ireland’s second group-stage fixture against England, where she was replaced by Louise Little. Despite a spirited effort from the Irish bowling attack, the team fell to a four-wicket defeat against the hosts in Southampton. The loss followed their opening-game setback against Scotland Women, leaving Ireland winless after two matches in the tournament.
Maguire’s inclusion marks an encouraging comeback for the young pacer, who had been in danger of missing the World Cup altogether after suffering a knee injury during domestic cricket in early May. However, an ahead-of-schedule recovery has earned her a place in the squad, where she joins her sister, Aimee Maguire. The siblings will now be part of Ireland’s bid to secure their first-ever victory in Women’s T20 World Cup history.
Ireland’s campaign began with a 40-run defeat to Scotland, although Canning impressed with figures of 3/27. Batter Amy Hunter top-scored with 39 runs in that contest. In the second match against England, Aimee Maguire and Orla Prendergast picked up two wickets apiece, while Prendergast and Little made useful contributions with the bat, though the rest of the batting unit struggled to make an impact.
Ireland will next face the White Ferns at The Rose Bowl, Southampton on June 19, hoping to bounce back and keep their campaign alive with a much-needed victory.
Ireland squad:
Gaby Lewis (c), Christina Coulter Reilly, Alana Dalzell, Georgina Dempsey, Amy Hunter, Arlene Kelly, Louise Little, Aimee Maguire, Jane Maguire, Lara McBride, Cara Murray, Leah Paul, Orla Prendergast, Rebecca Stokell, Alice Tector
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Women's T20 World Cup 2026: IND W vs NED W Today's Match Highlights: Unmissable video recap, POTM, match analysis, stats and more
India Women won by 95 runs.
India Women won by 95 runs.
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📢3 players who can lead India Women after Harmanpreet Kaur
Jemimah Rodrigues and Harmanpreet Kaur. (Photo source: Alex Davidson-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)
Some players do not just play the game; they transform it. In Indian women’s cricket, Harmanpreet Kaur is undoubtedly one such player. With her fearless approach and aggressive batting style, she brought a new dimension to the game and inspired a generation of cricketers across the country.
Under her leadership, India reached new heights, including the historic triumph in the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup on home soil. However, as Harmanpreet enters the twilight phase of her illustrious career, discussions about the team’s future leadership have naturally begun.
The question now is, who will take over the captaincy mantle and lead Indian women’s cricket into its next era? With the rise of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) and the emergence of several capable leaders, the Indian women's team has a number of promising candidates who could step up to fill the role.
Here are 3 possible future Indian women's captains after Harmanpreet Kaur:
3. Deepti Sharma
Deepti Sharma. (Source:Gettyimages)
One of the most prominent names in Indian women’s cricket, Deepti Sharma , can be considered for the role after Harmanpreet Kaur. Deepti has played more than 275 international matches for India. With immense experience under her belt, she may already have the respect of her teammates and brings the seniority factor with her as well.
In the WPL, Deepti also captained her franchise, the UP Warriorz, briefly when the then regular captain, Alyssa Healy, was injured. She is just 28 years old and can be considered a long-term captaincy option in the future.
2. Jemimah Rodrigues
Jemimah Rodrigues (Source: Alex Davidson-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)
The enigmatic Indian batter Jemimah Rodrigues will be a great candidate for the captaincy duties after Harmanpreet Kaur. The 25-year-old is one of the most experienced players, especially in the shorter formats, and is a regular member of the squad for the last few years.
As far as captaincy is concerned, she impressed everyone in the WPL 2026, where she was appointed as Delhi Capitals Women’s captain, replacing Meg Lanning. Jemimah took the side to the final of that season, showcasing her credentials as captain. With age on her side, she can be a solid captaincy option for the Women in Blue.
1. Smriti Mandhana
Smriti Mandhana (Photo by Mike Egerton/PA Images via Getty Images)
The most obvious choice to replace Harmanpreet Kaur as India’s captain will be the current vice-captain Smriti Mandhana . The experienced left-hand batter has a stellar record as captain in the WPL, leading RCB to two titles in 2024 and 2026, respectively. She also has captained India before as well and became India’s youngest-ever T20I captain when she led for the first time in 2019.
In T20Is, Smriti has led India 18 times and has won 11 of those matches, often filling in the void of Harmanpreet. Whereas in ODIs, she has a 100% record as India captain, winning all four matches. With an established captaincy record, she is the ideal captaincy choice for the Indian team beyond the depature of the Moga-bonr.
Jemimah Rodrigues and Harmanpreet Kaur. (Photo source: Alex Davidson-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)
Some players do not just play the game; they transform it. In Indian women’s cricket, Harmanpreet Kaur is undoubtedly one such player. With her fearless approach and aggressive batting style, she brought a new dimension to the game and inspired a generation of cricketers across the country.
Under her leadership, India reached new heights, including the historic triumph in the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup on home soil. However, as Harmanpreet enters the twilight phase of her illustrious career, discussions about the team’s future leadership have naturally begun.
The question now is, who will take over the captaincy mantle and lead Indian women’s cricket into its next era? With the rise of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) and the emergence of several capable leaders, the Indian women's team has a number of promising candidates who could step up to fill the role.
Here are 3 possible future Indian women's captains after Harmanpreet Kaur:
3. Deepti Sharma
Deepti Sharma. (Source:Gettyimages)
One of the most prominent names in Indian women’s cricket, Deepti Sharma , can be considered for the role after Harmanpreet Kaur. Deepti has played more than 275 international matches for India. With immense experience under her belt, she may already have the respect of her teammates and brings the seniority factor with her as well.
In the WPL, Deepti also captained her franchise, the UP Warriorz, briefly when the then regular captain, Alyssa Healy, was injured. She is just 28 years old and can be considered a long-term captaincy option in the future.
2. Jemimah Rodrigues
Jemimah Rodrigues (Source: Alex Davidson-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)
The enigmatic Indian batter Jemimah Rodrigues will be a great candidate for the captaincy duties after Harmanpreet Kaur. The 25-year-old is one of the most experienced players, especially in the shorter formats, and is a regular member of the squad for the last few years.
As far as captaincy is concerned, she impressed everyone in the WPL 2026, where she was appointed as Delhi Capitals Women’s captain, replacing Meg Lanning. Jemimah took the side to the final of that season, showcasing her credentials as captain. With age on her side, she can be a solid captaincy option for the Women in Blue.
1. Smriti Mandhana
Smriti Mandhana (Photo by Mike Egerton/PA Images via Getty Images)
The most obvious choice to replace Harmanpreet Kaur as India’s captain will be the current vice-captain Smriti Mandhana . The experienced left-hand batter has a stellar record as captain in the WPL, leading RCB to two titles in 2024 and 2026, respectively. She also has captained India before as well and became India’s youngest-ever T20I captain when she led for the first time in 2019.
In T20Is, Smriti has led India 18 times and has won 11 of those matches, often filling in the void of Harmanpreet. Whereas in ODIs, she has a 100% record as India captain, winning all four matches. With an established captaincy record, she is the ideal captaincy choice for the Indian team beyond the depature of the Moga-bonr.
3 players who can lead India Women after Harmanpreet Kaur
Harmanpreet enters the twilight phase of her illustrious career, discussions about the team’s future leadership have naturally begun.
Harmanpreet enters the twilight phase of her illustrious career, discussions about the team’s future leadership have naturally begun.
Women's T20 World Cup 2026: PAK W vs SA W Today's Match Highlights: Unmissable video recap, POTM, match analysis, stats and more
South Africa registered their first win of the tournament.
South Africa registered their first win of the tournament.
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'She keeps me calm' - Shafali Verma credits Smriti Mandhana's presence after their century stand vs Netherlands
Verma and Mandhana put on 115 runs for the first wicket from just 71 balls to help India reach 209 from 20 overs.
Verma and Mandhana put on 115 runs for the first wicket from just 71 balls to help India reach 209 from 20 overs.
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📢Women's T20 World Cup 2026: PAK W vs SA W Today's Match Highlights: Unmissable video recap, POTM, match analysis, stats and more
Marizanne Kapp. (Photo Source: Matthew Lewis-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)
How did Match 11 of the Women's T20 World Cup 2026 go between Pakistan Women and South Africa Women?
In a contest which could have gone either way, South Africa Women (SA W) clinched a solid win against Pakistan Women (PAK W) in Match 11 of the ongoing Women's T20 World Cup 2026 , getting over the line with two wickets and 19 balls to spare at Edgbaston, Birmingham , on Wednesday, June 17 .
As the match kicked off in style, Pakistan batted first, and despite a horrendous start where they lost half the side in the powerplay with just 29 runs on the board, they put up a fight through a terrific comeback. Captain Fatima Sana (55 off 38) and Tuba Hassan (23 off 27) did an excellent recovery job for the Women in Green, as they were able to score 126-9 at the end of their 20 overs.
For the Proteas, the start wasn't as easy, since the difficult conditions at Edgbaston did not allow for a free flow of runs. A collapse in the middle made the game swing the opposite way for a while, and the Fatima Sana-led side genuinely seemed to have made a comeback in their defence. But the South Africans managed to pull things back in their favour and registered a solid win to get off the mark in the tournament.
Top Batting Performance: Annerie Dercksen
South Africa had lost opener Sune Luus in the second over of the chase, but Annerie Dercksen's arrival at the crease meant that the Proteas were in safe hands. Dercksen dominated the powerplay, taking the maximum advantage of the field restrictions. Once skipper Laura Wolvaardt departed for 8 off 12, Dercksen took the charge in her own hands and steered the run chase with her 52-run knock off just 35 deliveries, batting on an extremely difficult track.
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Top Bowling Performance: Marizanne Kapp
The experience of Marizanne Kapp (3-23 in 4 overs) was on display right away, as she began the proceedings with the ball and struck on the first ball, trapping Muneeba Ali lbw. She struck for the second time in the first over, this time getting rid of another opener, Gull Feroza, on the last ball. In her second over, Kapp got the better of Ayesha Zafar, completing her three wickets that put her side right on top of the contest early on.
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Records Broken and Major Milestones Achieved
Fatima Sana and Tuba Hassan registered the highest 9th-wicket partnership (71) for Pakistan Women in T20Is.
Annerie Dercksen made his first fifty in T20 World Cups.
South Africa has maintained an unbeaten record against Pakistan in WT20 World Cups, winning all four contests thus far.
Fatima Sana became the first captain to score 50+ and pick 3 wickets in a Women’s T20 World Cup match.
Fatima Sana became the fourth player overall to score a 50 and pick 3 wickets in the same match in WT20 WCs.
South Africa's lowest victory by margin of wickets in the tournament's history. Joint second-lowest overall.
Who won the Player of the Match award?
Annerie Dercksen. (Photo Source: Jacob King/PA Images via Getty Images)
Dercksen, who registered her maiden half-century in the T20 World Cup and steered the brilliant run chase for the Proteas, was adjudged the Player of the Match. Her knock in the middle included seven beautiful boundaries and a couple of glorious sixes as well, as she helped the South African side gain a couple of crucial points on the table.
When is the next match?
Scotland and the West Indies will be seen crossing swords in the next match of the Women's T20 World Cup 2026. This contest will be played on Thursday, June 18 at the Headingley in Leeds.
Marizanne Kapp. (Photo Source: Matthew Lewis-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)
How did Match 11 of the Women's T20 World Cup 2026 go between Pakistan Women and South Africa Women?
In a contest which could have gone either way, South Africa Women (SA W) clinched a solid win against Pakistan Women (PAK W) in Match 11 of the ongoing Women's T20 World Cup 2026 , getting over the line with two wickets and 19 balls to spare at Edgbaston, Birmingham , on Wednesday, June 17 .
As the match kicked off in style, Pakistan batted first, and despite a horrendous start where they lost half the side in the powerplay with just 29 runs on the board, they put up a fight through a terrific comeback. Captain Fatima Sana (55 off 38) and Tuba Hassan (23 off 27) did an excellent recovery job for the Women in Green, as they were able to score 126-9 at the end of their 20 overs.
For the Proteas, the start wasn't as easy, since the difficult conditions at Edgbaston did not allow for a free flow of runs. A collapse in the middle made the game swing the opposite way for a while, and the Fatima Sana-led side genuinely seemed to have made a comeback in their defence. But the South Africans managed to pull things back in their favour and registered a solid win to get off the mark in the tournament.
Top Batting Performance: Annerie Dercksen
South Africa had lost opener Sune Luus in the second over of the chase, but Annerie Dercksen's arrival at the crease meant that the Proteas were in safe hands. Dercksen dominated the powerplay, taking the maximum advantage of the field restrictions. Once skipper Laura Wolvaardt departed for 8 off 12, Dercksen took the charge in her own hands and steered the run chase with her 52-run knock off just 35 deliveries, batting on an extremely difficult track.
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by ICC (@icc)
Top Bowling Performance: Marizanne Kapp
The experience of Marizanne Kapp (3-23 in 4 overs) was on display right away, as she began the proceedings with the ball and struck on the first ball, trapping Muneeba Ali lbw. She struck for the second time in the first over, this time getting rid of another opener, Gull Feroza, on the last ball. In her second over, Kapp got the better of Ayesha Zafar, completing her three wickets that put her side right on top of the contest early on.
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by ICC (@icc)
Records Broken and Major Milestones Achieved
Fatima Sana and Tuba Hassan registered the highest 9th-wicket partnership (71) for Pakistan Women in T20Is.
Annerie Dercksen made his first fifty in T20 World Cups.
South Africa has maintained an unbeaten record against Pakistan in WT20 World Cups, winning all four contests thus far.
Fatima Sana became the first captain to score 50+ and pick 3 wickets in a Women’s T20 World Cup match.
Fatima Sana became the fourth player overall to score a 50 and pick 3 wickets in the same match in WT20 WCs.
South Africa's lowest victory by margin of wickets in the tournament's history. Joint second-lowest overall.
Who won the Player of the Match award?
Annerie Dercksen. (Photo Source: Jacob King/PA Images via Getty Images)
Dercksen, who registered her maiden half-century in the T20 World Cup and steered the brilliant run chase for the Proteas, was adjudged the Player of the Match. Her knock in the middle included seven beautiful boundaries and a couple of glorious sixes as well, as she helped the South African side gain a couple of crucial points on the table.
When is the next match?
Scotland and the West Indies will be seen crossing swords in the next match of the Women's T20 World Cup 2026. This contest will be played on Thursday, June 18 at the Headingley in Leeds.
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📢'She keeps me calm' - Shafali Verma credits Smriti Mandhana's presence after their century stand vs Netherlands
Shafali Verma x Smriti Mandhana (Source: Mark Brake/Getty Images)
Shafali Verma has acknowledged how Smriti Mandhana's presence helps her perform to the best of her abilities whilst opening the batting. This comes after the pair played a significant role in helping India Women secure a convincing 95-run victory over the Netherlands Women during the 2026 Women's T20 World Cup.
Verma stated that Mandhana constantly advises her not to strive and hit every ball for big runs, and instead to wait for the right opportunity by knocking the ball along the ground. This calming presence on the field helped the pair forge a 100-run partnership whilst opening the batting, with the 22-year-old hitting her maiden T20I half-century, and the more experienced Mandhana went on to score a 47-ball 74 to be named Player of the Match.
Verma, along with the left-handed batter, put on 115 runs for the first wicket from just 71 balls to help India reach 209 from 20 overs.
"She keeps advising me, because I feel like hitting a six every ball, but she's the one who keeps me calm, tells me loose balls will come and I have to play along the ground too. So she keeps me calm and she spoke very well with me today, she was making me understand on every ball. So it felt great, we had a 100-plus partnership and we are trying to do the same in the upcoming matches," Shafali said in the press conference via ESPNcricinfo.
Verma also stated the importance of having an opening partner who understands each other's game, strengths and weaknesses. This helps the duo rotate the strike according to the bowler and make full use of their varied skill sets.
"She has the best seat to tell me what I'm doing is right or wrong, and then even I have the best seat to tell her which bowler I can take on. We both know who should take the strike when there's an offspinner, or when there's a left-arm spinner. We have been playing with each other for many years, so we both know about each other a lot," she added.
India secured their second consecutive win in the 2026 Women's T20 World Cup and currently find themselves at the top of Group 1 with four points from two matches. Their next game will see them face South Africa Women at Old Trafford in Manchester on Sunday, June 21, in what could decide their chances to qualify for the knockouts.
Shafali Verma x Smriti Mandhana (Source: Mark Brake/Getty Images)
Shafali Verma has acknowledged how Smriti Mandhana's presence helps her perform to the best of her abilities whilst opening the batting. This comes after the pair played a significant role in helping India Women secure a convincing 95-run victory over the Netherlands Women during the 2026 Women's T20 World Cup.
Verma stated that Mandhana constantly advises her not to strive and hit every ball for big runs, and instead to wait for the right opportunity by knocking the ball along the ground. This calming presence on the field helped the pair forge a 100-run partnership whilst opening the batting, with the 22-year-old hitting her maiden T20I half-century, and the more experienced Mandhana went on to score a 47-ball 74 to be named Player of the Match.
Verma, along with the left-handed batter, put on 115 runs for the first wicket from just 71 balls to help India reach 209 from 20 overs.
"She keeps advising me, because I feel like hitting a six every ball, but she's the one who keeps me calm, tells me loose balls will come and I have to play along the ground too. So she keeps me calm and she spoke very well with me today, she was making me understand on every ball. So it felt great, we had a 100-plus partnership and we are trying to do the same in the upcoming matches," Shafali said in the press conference via ESPNcricinfo.
Verma also stated the importance of having an opening partner who understands each other's game, strengths and weaknesses. This helps the duo rotate the strike according to the bowler and make full use of their varied skill sets.
"She has the best seat to tell me what I'm doing is right or wrong, and then even I have the best seat to tell her which bowler I can take on. We both know who should take the strike when there's an offspinner, or when there's a left-arm spinner. We have been playing with each other for many years, so we both know about each other a lot," she added.
India secured their second consecutive win in the 2026 Women's T20 World Cup and currently find themselves at the top of Group 1 with four points from two matches. Their next game will see them face South Africa Women at Old Trafford in Manchester on Sunday, June 21, in what could decide their chances to qualify for the knockouts.
Women's T20 World Cup 2026: Shreyanka Patil stretchered off the field after twisting her ankle
The off-spinner landed awkwardly on her right ankle while picking up the ball and turning, and immediately fell to the ground.
The off-spinner landed awkwardly on her right ankle while picking up the ball and turning, and immediately fell to the ground.
📢Women's T20 World Cup 2026: Shreyanka Patil stretchered off the field after twisting her ankle
Women's T20 World Cup 2026: Shreyanka Patil stretchered off the field after twisting her ankle(Photo Source: BCCI Women)
India Women 's all-rounder Shreyanka Patil was stretchered off the field after twisting her ankle during the 95-run win over the Netherlands Women in Headingley on Wednesday, June 17. Bowling her first ball of the game, Patil ran towards mid-on to stop the ball, where she twisted her ankle and had to be taken off the field on a stretcher.
In the first ball of the sixth over, Netherlands batter Phebe Molkenboer tapped the ball towards mid-on. Patil ran after it to stop the single and reached the ball after Yastika Bhatia palmed the ball away with a diving effort. The off-spinner landed awkwardly on her right ankle while picking up the ball and turning, and immediately fell to the ground.
She lay on the ground, clutching her right ankle, as the Indian team physiotherapist came out. While trying to stand up, she was unable to balance any weight on her right leg, and eventually had to be stretchered off the field. Shafali Verma completed the sixth over with Radha Yadav being brought in to field.
Patil has been out of action for multiple periods due to long injury layoffs in 2024 and 2025. She suffered a finger fracture on her left hand in July 2024, which was followed by shin splints in both legs and then a stress issue in her wrist. She was back to full fitness in September of 2025, where she represented the Barbados Royals in the Women's CPL and was a regular feature of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the 2026 WPL.
Speaking of the match, India put on a massive 209 for 5 in their 20 overs after being put into bat. A 115-run opening stand between Shafali and Smriti Mandhana , with late fireworks from Richa Ghosh, took the team to the mammoth total. Mandhana top-scored with a well-made 74 off 47 balls, her second consecutive half-century of the tournament, while Shafali scored 55 off 38 balls. The Netherlands were bowled out for 114, with Shree Charani finishing with figures of 4 for 19 and Shafali picking up figures of 3 for 20.
India sit top of Group A, with two wins from two matches. Their next match is against South Africa Women on June 21 at Old Trafford in Manchester.
Women's T20 World Cup 2026: Shreyanka Patil stretchered off the field after twisting her ankle(Photo Source: BCCI Women)
India Women 's all-rounder Shreyanka Patil was stretchered off the field after twisting her ankle during the 95-run win over the Netherlands Women in Headingley on Wednesday, June 17. Bowling her first ball of the game, Patil ran towards mid-on to stop the ball, where she twisted her ankle and had to be taken off the field on a stretcher.
In the first ball of the sixth over, Netherlands batter Phebe Molkenboer tapped the ball towards mid-on. Patil ran after it to stop the single and reached the ball after Yastika Bhatia palmed the ball away with a diving effort. The off-spinner landed awkwardly on her right ankle while picking up the ball and turning, and immediately fell to the ground.
She lay on the ground, clutching her right ankle, as the Indian team physiotherapist came out. While trying to stand up, she was unable to balance any weight on her right leg, and eventually had to be stretchered off the field. Shafali Verma completed the sixth over with Radha Yadav being brought in to field.
Patil has been out of action for multiple periods due to long injury layoffs in 2024 and 2025. She suffered a finger fracture on her left hand in July 2024, which was followed by shin splints in both legs and then a stress issue in her wrist. She was back to full fitness in September of 2025, where she represented the Barbados Royals in the Women's CPL and was a regular feature of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the 2026 WPL.
Speaking of the match, India put on a massive 209 for 5 in their 20 overs after being put into bat. A 115-run opening stand between Shafali and Smriti Mandhana , with late fireworks from Richa Ghosh, took the team to the mammoth total. Mandhana top-scored with a well-made 74 off 47 balls, her second consecutive half-century of the tournament, while Shafali scored 55 off 38 balls. The Netherlands were bowled out for 114, with Shree Charani finishing with figures of 4 for 19 and Shafali picking up figures of 3 for 20.
India sit top of Group A, with two wins from two matches. Their next match is against South Africa Women on June 21 at Old Trafford in Manchester.