📢Ben Stokes likely to lead England in third Test following as nightclub episode anger cools down
Reports: Ben Stokes likely to return as England Test skipper amid nightclub altercation (Photo Source: Gareth Copley/Getty Images)
England Test skipper Ben Stokes appears likely to return to the squad as captain for the third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge in Nottingham after investigations into his nightclub curfew breach.
Stokes and teammate Gus Atkinson were involved in a late-night altercation at a nightclub after the victory at the Lord's in the first Test. The incident was also a breach of the curfew imposed on the team after the fallout from several drinking-related incidents from the Ashes. Stokes himself was among the decision-makers who put the curfew in place.
As per The Telegraph , the pair were interviewed by the England and Wales Cricket Board this week, and the reports of the internal investigation into the matter will be released before the ongoing second Test. The ECB maintains the position that no final decisions have been made over Stokes' trip to Nottingham on Thursday, but during the past week, the initially irate team management has clearly softened its stance.
Stokes is set to feature for Durham in the County Championship clash against Northamptonshire, having been added to the 15-member squad for the clash at Chester-Le-Street. In Stokes’ absence, Joe Root took over the reins to captain England for the second Test at the Oval as vice-captain Harry Brook himself was involved in a nightclub incident ahead of an ODI in Wellington, a revelation which only came to light months after the incident.
Brendon McCullum and Men’s Director of Cricket Rob Key did not ascertain Stokes losing his captaincy, but it has been speculated that if the star all-rounder returns to the team after the investigation, he will be taking the field as captain of the side. The head coach also spoke of Stokes’ mental well-being after the incident, after reports of the latter wanting to retire from the game started doing the rounds.
The fallout from the incident and further squad absences in Ollie Robinson and Jamie Smith saw the trio of Jordan Cox, James Rew, and Sonny Baker make their Test debuts at the Oval.
Reports: Ben Stokes likely to return as England Test skipper amid nightclub altercation (Photo Source: Gareth Copley/Getty Images)
England Test skipper Ben Stokes appears likely to return to the squad as captain for the third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge in Nottingham after investigations into his nightclub curfew breach.
Stokes and teammate Gus Atkinson were involved in a late-night altercation at a nightclub after the victory at the Lord's in the first Test. The incident was also a breach of the curfew imposed on the team after the fallout from several drinking-related incidents from the Ashes. Stokes himself was among the decision-makers who put the curfew in place.
As per The Telegraph , the pair were interviewed by the England and Wales Cricket Board this week, and the reports of the internal investigation into the matter will be released before the ongoing second Test. The ECB maintains the position that no final decisions have been made over Stokes' trip to Nottingham on Thursday, but during the past week, the initially irate team management has clearly softened its stance.
Stokes is set to feature for Durham in the County Championship clash against Northamptonshire, having been added to the 15-member squad for the clash at Chester-Le-Street. In Stokes’ absence, Joe Root took over the reins to captain England for the second Test at the Oval as vice-captain Harry Brook himself was involved in a nightclub incident ahead of an ODI in Wellington, a revelation which only came to light months after the incident.
Brendon McCullum and Men’s Director of Cricket Rob Key did not ascertain Stokes losing his captaincy, but it has been speculated that if the star all-rounder returns to the team after the investigation, he will be taking the field as captain of the side. The head coach also spoke of Stokes’ mental well-being after the incident, after reports of the latter wanting to retire from the game started doing the rounds.
The fallout from the incident and further squad absences in Ollie Robinson and Jamie Smith saw the trio of Jordan Cox, James Rew, and Sonny Baker make their Test debuts at the Oval.
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ENG vs NZ 2026: 'I know he's watching' - Glenn Phillips dedicates maiden Test century to late father
The all-rounder became the third New Zealand cricketer to score centuries in all three formats of the game, after Martin Guptill and current England head coach Brendon McCullum.
The all-rounder became the third New Zealand cricketer to score centuries in all three formats of the game, after Martin Guptill and current England head coach Brendon McCullum.
📢ENG vs NZ 2026: 'I know he's watching' - Glenn Phillips dedicates maiden Test century to late father
ENG vs NZ 2026: 'I know he's watching in some stage' - Glenn Phillips dedicates maiden Test century to his father (Photo Source: Getty Images)
Glenn Phillips notched up his maiden Test century on Day 2 of the second Test between England and New Zealand at the Oval. The all-rounder became the third New Zealand cricketer to score centuries in all three formats of the game, after Martin Guptill and current England head coach Brendon McCullum. He reached a milestone a day before his father Roland's death anniversary and celebrated by raising his bat to the sky. Speaking after the day's play, Phillips dedicated his century to his father.
"It's the anniversary of my dad's passing tomorrow. Hopefully, with our boys doing their thing, maybe I'm not going to be needed tomorrow. But today is close enough for the moment to matter, and he's been a big role in my life. I know he would have loved to be here to see that, and Test cricket was his favourite format. I know he's watching in some stage," Phillips said, as reported by ESPNcricinfo.
He finished day 1 unbeaten on 49 off 74 balls, withstanding a short-ball onslaught from Jofra Archer. He then scored 51 runs off 61 balls the following morning, putting up 100 runs for the last three wickets, and taking New Zealand to a competitive score of 391. The battle between Phillips and Archer brought back memories of a 2019 New Zealand A tour, where he faced a similar experience from the England quick.
"We've actually had one of those duels before, six or seven years back in New Zealand, and he pretty much hit me in the exact same spots all over. He bowls with great heat, great accuracy, and he just kept coming back. Obviously, it was a thrilling contest for the crowd to see as well, and sometimes you've just got to enjoy it, laugh, and hope for the best," Phillips said.
New Zealand are also without their talisman Kane Williamson, who announced his retirement from international cricket after the loss at Lord's. Phillips emphasised on Williamson's constant messaging about how the runs are always for the team.
"Kane obviously speaks about it quite a lot: we score our runs, but they're never our runs. We're just custodians of those runs for the team. We try to do things for the team," Phillips said.
Before the Test series, Phillips was at the IPL with the Gujarat Titans, where he played the first five games, but was dropped for Jason Holder. He used his time to prepare for the Test series, trying to play the ball as late as possible.
"I still had to be prepared to play, but we were very, very lucky at Gujarat with the amount of facilities that we had. [I was] not necessarily training red-ball cricket per se, but having that same mindset of being still, trying to keep my head as still as possible, and play the ball as late as possible, under my eyes. Definitely, there was time to be able to have those sorts of nets sessions, do my throwdowns," he said.
"We were very spoiled for choice over there with the number of facilities and people that we had on board. It's just a matter of trying to get used to that red ball when you get over here, and obviously the Dukes is always slightly different [to the Kookaburra]. For me, it was then about making that adjustment when we got to Lord's, trying to adjust as quick as possible," he added.
The Kiwis find themselves in a dominant position at the close of Day 2, with England reeling at 222 for 6 in 59 overs, trailing by 169 runs.
ENG vs NZ 2026: 'I know he's watching in some stage' - Glenn Phillips dedicates maiden Test century to his father (Photo Source: Getty Images)
Glenn Phillips notched up his maiden Test century on Day 2 of the second Test between England and New Zealand at the Oval. The all-rounder became the third New Zealand cricketer to score centuries in all three formats of the game, after Martin Guptill and current England head coach Brendon McCullum. He reached a milestone a day before his father Roland's death anniversary and celebrated by raising his bat to the sky. Speaking after the day's play, Phillips dedicated his century to his father.
"It's the anniversary of my dad's passing tomorrow. Hopefully, with our boys doing their thing, maybe I'm not going to be needed tomorrow. But today is close enough for the moment to matter, and he's been a big role in my life. I know he would have loved to be here to see that, and Test cricket was his favourite format. I know he's watching in some stage," Phillips said, as reported by ESPNcricinfo.
He finished day 1 unbeaten on 49 off 74 balls, withstanding a short-ball onslaught from Jofra Archer. He then scored 51 runs off 61 balls the following morning, putting up 100 runs for the last three wickets, and taking New Zealand to a competitive score of 391. The battle between Phillips and Archer brought back memories of a 2019 New Zealand A tour, where he faced a similar experience from the England quick.
"We've actually had one of those duels before, six or seven years back in New Zealand, and he pretty much hit me in the exact same spots all over. He bowls with great heat, great accuracy, and he just kept coming back. Obviously, it was a thrilling contest for the crowd to see as well, and sometimes you've just got to enjoy it, laugh, and hope for the best," Phillips said.
New Zealand are also without their talisman Kane Williamson, who announced his retirement from international cricket after the loss at Lord's. Phillips emphasised on Williamson's constant messaging about how the runs are always for the team.
"Kane obviously speaks about it quite a lot: we score our runs, but they're never our runs. We're just custodians of those runs for the team. We try to do things for the team," Phillips said.
Before the Test series, Phillips was at the IPL with the Gujarat Titans, where he played the first five games, but was dropped for Jason Holder. He used his time to prepare for the Test series, trying to play the ball as late as possible.
"I still had to be prepared to play, but we were very, very lucky at Gujarat with the amount of facilities that we had. [I was] not necessarily training red-ball cricket per se, but having that same mindset of being still, trying to keep my head as still as possible, and play the ball as late as possible, under my eyes. Definitely, there was time to be able to have those sorts of nets sessions, do my throwdowns," he said.
"We were very spoiled for choice over there with the number of facilities and people that we had on board. It's just a matter of trying to get used to that red ball when you get over here, and obviously the Dukes is always slightly different [to the Kookaburra]. For me, it was then about making that adjustment when we got to Lord's, trying to adjust as quick as possible," he added.
The Kiwis find themselves in a dominant position at the close of Day 2, with England reeling at 222 for 6 in 59 overs, trailing by 169 runs.
'These are strategic discussions' - BCCI tight-lipped over Virat Kohli-Rohit Sharma's selection ahead of 2027 World Cup
Whatever decisions are made involve the cricket committee and the selectors, including support staff, head coach and the players concerned. There are regular conversations taking place," Saikia said.
Whatever decisions are made involve the cricket committee and the selectors, including support staff, head coach and the players concerned. There are regular conversations taking place," Saikia said.
📢'These are strategic discussions' - BCCI tight-lipped over Virat Kohli-Rohit Sharma's selection ahead of 2027 World Cup
'These are strategic discussions' - BCCI tight-lipped over Virat Kohli-Rohit Sharma's selection ahead of 2027 World Cup (Photo by Pankaj Nangia/Getty Images)
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is actively discussing the selection of senior cricketers Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli for the upcoming 2027 ODI World Cup. With the quadrennial global tournament on the horizon once again, it is slated to be the last dance for the Indian duo. However, their availability, fitness, and an eventual inclusion for the event remain a huge question mark at the moment.
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia has said that a team of experts is sitting in the office to discuss the team for the future, with Rohit and Virat being the centre point of the decision-making process. Saikia has suggested the duo themselves are involved in such meetings alongside other stakeholders, selectors, coaches and the captain, but none of these will ever be out in the open.
"As the head of the board, we have a very well-knit team and a lot of experts. All stakeholders are taken on board. Whatever decisions are made involve the cricket committee, the selectors and all other stakeholders, including the support staff, the head coach and the players concerned. There are regular conversations taking place," Saikia told as quoted by India TV .
Saikia has suggested that the selection for the 2027 World Cup is already a work in progress, and there might not be separate calls taken in this regard. He believes that such matters will remain confined to the meeting rooms of the BCCI and its office-bearers. As a result, it lies solely with the meeting personnel to take calls based on the strategy aimed at lifting the crown in the prestigious tournament.
"For that reason, we do not need any special session of interaction. This is an ongoing process. Further, I do not think I should disclose anything before the media or the public because these are strategic discussions. I am not authorised to speak about them before the media. Secondly, these are matters that should remain within the boardroom," he added.
Notably, both Rohit and Virat have expressed their desires to play for the Men in Blue and help the country win the ODI World Cup in Africa. However, reports keep popping up regarding the doubts over their selection in the squad for the marquee event.
'These are strategic discussions' - BCCI tight-lipped over Virat Kohli-Rohit Sharma's selection ahead of 2027 World Cup (Photo by Pankaj Nangia/Getty Images)
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is actively discussing the selection of senior cricketers Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli for the upcoming 2027 ODI World Cup. With the quadrennial global tournament on the horizon once again, it is slated to be the last dance for the Indian duo. However, their availability, fitness, and an eventual inclusion for the event remain a huge question mark at the moment.
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia has said that a team of experts is sitting in the office to discuss the team for the future, with Rohit and Virat being the centre point of the decision-making process. Saikia has suggested the duo themselves are involved in such meetings alongside other stakeholders, selectors, coaches and the captain, but none of these will ever be out in the open.
"As the head of the board, we have a very well-knit team and a lot of experts. All stakeholders are taken on board. Whatever decisions are made involve the cricket committee, the selectors and all other stakeholders, including the support staff, the head coach and the players concerned. There are regular conversations taking place," Saikia told as quoted by India TV .
Saikia has suggested that the selection for the 2027 World Cup is already a work in progress, and there might not be separate calls taken in this regard. He believes that such matters will remain confined to the meeting rooms of the BCCI and its office-bearers. As a result, it lies solely with the meeting personnel to take calls based on the strategy aimed at lifting the crown in the prestigious tournament.
"For that reason, we do not need any special session of interaction. This is an ongoing process. Further, I do not think I should disclose anything before the media or the public because these are strategic discussions. I am not authorised to speak about them before the media. Secondly, these are matters that should remain within the boardroom," he added.
Notably, both Rohit and Virat have expressed their desires to play for the Men in Blue and help the country win the ODI World Cup in Africa. However, reports keep popping up regarding the doubts over their selection in the squad for the marquee event.
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[WATCH] 'I challenge you, Bhajji' - Sreesanth throws open boxing challenge to Harbhajan Singh amid renewed ‘slapgate’ row
The incident dates back to the inaugural season of the Indian Premier League in 2008 when Harbhajan slapped Sreesanth following a heated encounter between the Mumbai Indians and Kings XI Punjab.
The incident dates back to the inaugural season of the Indian Premier League in 2008 when Harbhajan slapped Sreesanth following a heated encounter between the Mumbai Indians and Kings XI Punjab.
📢[WATCH] 'I challenge you, Bhajji' - Sreesanth throws open boxing challenge to Harbhajan Singh amid renewed ‘slapgate’ row
[WATCH] Sreesanth throws open boxing challenge to Harbhajan Singh amid renewed ‘slapgate’ row. (Photo Source: Kunal Patil/Hindustan Times via Getty Images)
Former India pacer S Sreesanth has once again taken aim at former teammate Harbhajan Singh as the long-standing tensions between the two cricketers continue to resurface nearly two decades after the infamous IPL ‘Slapgate’ controversy.
The incident dates back to the inaugural season of the Indian Premier League in 2008 when Harbhajan slapped Sreesanth following a heated encounter between the Mumbai Indians and Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings). While both players appeared to have moved on from the episode over the years, the controversy returned to the spotlight after Harbhajan recently featured in an advertisement that seemingly referenced the infamous incident.
The advertisement did not go down well with Sreesanth, who has openly expressed his displeasure over the matter in recent weeks. During a recent podcast appearance, Sreesanth was shown an old photograph featuring him and Harbhajan dressed in boxing gear.
Reacting to the image, the former Kerala pacer issued a direct challenge to Harbhajan, inviting him to step into a boxing ring and settle their differences once and for all.
“This same scene, do you have the guts? Do you have the guts to come into the ring with me? Can you sign and come? Can you? I am asking him. Do you have the guts to come into the ring with me? Wearing this same gloves… This is not acting, I am smiling. You are not even smiling, I don’t know what you are doing. Let’s see. This is an open challenge,” Sreesanth said in an interview with Lallantop.
The 42-year-old further revealed his association with combat sports and stated that he would be willing to face Harbhajan in an organised fight event.
“I am currently in the Bear Knuckle Fight League, and I am also one of the main sponsors of Conor McGregor’s video; one of my good friends sponsored it, so the promotion is also done. I am challenging you, Bhajji (Harbhajan Singh),” he added.
Watch the clip here -
Sreesanth's open challenge to Harbhajan for a ring fight 💀
If you've got the guts, Bhajji, step into the ring. Enough with the ads.. pic.twitter.com/VQV5f7E1La
— Kohlistic🔥 (@Kohlistic18) June 18, 2026
Sreesanth continued his remarks by urging Harbhajan to address the issue directly rather than through advertisements. The former speedster said he was ready for a genuine contest and called upon Harbhajan to accept the challenge.
“I challenge you, Bhajji. If you have this much of a problem with the slap thing and me, and you earn this much… let me earn too. Come into the ring. I am calling you from my heart. If we have some self-respect, let’s not do ads and all that. In a genuine way, for all the Malayalis and all the Sardars, please come. I am waiting,” he said.
Now, whether Harbhajan responds to Sreesanth’s latest challenge remains to be seen.
[WATCH] Sreesanth throws open boxing challenge to Harbhajan Singh amid renewed ‘slapgate’ row. (Photo Source: Kunal Patil/Hindustan Times via Getty Images)
Former India pacer S Sreesanth has once again taken aim at former teammate Harbhajan Singh as the long-standing tensions between the two cricketers continue to resurface nearly two decades after the infamous IPL ‘Slapgate’ controversy.
The incident dates back to the inaugural season of the Indian Premier League in 2008 when Harbhajan slapped Sreesanth following a heated encounter between the Mumbai Indians and Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings). While both players appeared to have moved on from the episode over the years, the controversy returned to the spotlight after Harbhajan recently featured in an advertisement that seemingly referenced the infamous incident.
The advertisement did not go down well with Sreesanth, who has openly expressed his displeasure over the matter in recent weeks. During a recent podcast appearance, Sreesanth was shown an old photograph featuring him and Harbhajan dressed in boxing gear.
Reacting to the image, the former Kerala pacer issued a direct challenge to Harbhajan, inviting him to step into a boxing ring and settle their differences once and for all.
“This same scene, do you have the guts? Do you have the guts to come into the ring with me? Can you sign and come? Can you? I am asking him. Do you have the guts to come into the ring with me? Wearing this same gloves… This is not acting, I am smiling. You are not even smiling, I don’t know what you are doing. Let’s see. This is an open challenge,” Sreesanth said in an interview with Lallantop.
The 42-year-old further revealed his association with combat sports and stated that he would be willing to face Harbhajan in an organised fight event.
“I am currently in the Bear Knuckle Fight League, and I am also one of the main sponsors of Conor McGregor’s video; one of my good friends sponsored it, so the promotion is also done. I am challenging you, Bhajji (Harbhajan Singh),” he added.
Watch the clip here -
Sreesanth's open challenge to Harbhajan for a ring fight 💀
If you've got the guts, Bhajji, step into the ring. Enough with the ads.. pic.twitter.com/VQV5f7E1La
— Kohlistic🔥 (@Kohlistic18) June 18, 2026
Sreesanth continued his remarks by urging Harbhajan to address the issue directly rather than through advertisements. The former speedster said he was ready for a genuine contest and called upon Harbhajan to accept the challenge.
“I challenge you, Bhajji. If you have this much of a problem with the slap thing and me, and you earn this much… let me earn too. Come into the ring. I am calling you from my heart. If we have some self-respect, let’s not do ads and all that. In a genuine way, for all the Malayalis and all the Sardars, please come. I am waiting,” he said.
Now, whether Harbhajan responds to Sreesanth’s latest challenge remains to be seen.
APL 2026: Match 18, AMR vs KK Match Prediction – Who will win today’s APL match between Amaravati Royals vs Kakinada Kings?
Both sides come into the game on the back of defeats, but still find themselves in the top three.
Both sides come into the game on the back of defeats, but still find themselves in the top three.
📢APL 2026: Match 18, AMR vs KK Match Prediction – Who will win today’s APL match between Amaravati Royals vs Kakinada Kings?
Amaravati Royals vs Kakinada Kings (capital_amaravathi_royals
/kakinada.kings on IG)
Match 18 of the 2026 Andhra Premier League once again takes place in the city of Kadapa, where the Amaravati Royals (AMR) take on the Kakinada Kings (KK) on Saturday, June 20, as part of a double header. Both sides come into the game on the back of defeats, but still find themselves in the top three.
AMR have six points from four matches and only suffered their first defeat of the tournament in their previous game against the Simhadri Vizag Lions. They are, however, level on points with table-toppers Bhimavaram Bulls.
KK, on the other hand, have followed a pattern of one win and one defeat. They have four points from as many matches and are in third spot. The Royals of Rayalaseema defeated them in their previous fixture, where they were unable to defend 212 in the second innings.
AMR vs KK: Match Details
Match
Amaravati Royals vs Kakinada Kings , Match 18 , Andhra Premier League 2026
Date and Time (IST)
Saturday, June 20, 2026, 7:00 PM (IST)
Venue
YS Raja Reddy Cricket Stadium, Kadapa
Broadcast and Live Streaming
JioStar Network Channels and JioHotstar (App & Website)
YS Raja Reddy Cricket Stadium, Kadapa: Pitch Report
Located in a picturesque part of Andhra Pradesh, YS Raja Reddy Cricket Stadium produces close matches thanks to conditions which favour both batters and bowlers. Teams batting first can expect to post totals exceeding 200, but that does not mean those scores are winnable, as evidenced by the Royals of Rayalaseema chasing down 212 against the Kakinada Kings with more than an over to spare.
AMR vs KK: Head-to-Head Record
Matches Played
1
Won By AMR
0
Won By KK
1
No Result
0
Only Meeting
August 8, 2025
AMR vs KK: Predicted Playing XIs
Amaravati Royals:
Yara Sandeep (C), Avinash Pyla, Kirdant Karan Shinde, Seeram Venkata Rahul, Durga Naga Vara Prasad Singupuram (WK), KV Sasikanth, Varun Satvik Tellaputta, Bandaru Ayyappa, Toshith Yadav Makki, Yeswanth Gollapudi, Ahitesh Varma Uddaraju
Kakinada Kings:
Lekhaz Reddy (WK), Muvvala Yuvan, Pitta Arjun Tendulkar, Abhishek Reddy, Manish Golamaru (C), Pinninti Tapaswi, Anjaneyulu, Gadde Samanvith, Kavuri Saiteja, Varri Giri Prasad, S. Ashish
AMR vs KK: Probable Best Performers of the Match
Probable Best Batter: Abhishek Reddy
Abhishek Reddy is currently the second-highest run-scorer in the 2026 Andhra Premier League. He has scored 188 runs from four matches at an average of 62.67 and a strike-rate of above 160. He recently scored 112 against the Royals of Rayalaseema, but his team still finished second best.
Probable Best Bowler: S Ashish
The Kings' best bowler so far this season, Ashish, has picked up nine wickets from four matches and is currently the league's joint second-highest wicket-taker. In a tournament where scores of above 200 are common, Ashish's economy rate is what sets him apart, conceding runs at just 6.73.
Today's Match Prediction : The chasing team to win the match, AMR hold an edge
Amaravati Royals vs Kakinada Kings (capital_amaravathi_royals
/kakinada.kings on IG)
Match 18 of the 2026 Andhra Premier League once again takes place in the city of Kadapa, where the Amaravati Royals (AMR) take on the Kakinada Kings (KK) on Saturday, June 20, as part of a double header. Both sides come into the game on the back of defeats, but still find themselves in the top three.
AMR have six points from four matches and only suffered their first defeat of the tournament in their previous game against the Simhadri Vizag Lions. They are, however, level on points with table-toppers Bhimavaram Bulls.
KK, on the other hand, have followed a pattern of one win and one defeat. They have four points from as many matches and are in third spot. The Royals of Rayalaseema defeated them in their previous fixture, where they were unable to defend 212 in the second innings.
AMR vs KK: Match Details
Match
Amaravati Royals vs Kakinada Kings , Match 18 , Andhra Premier League 2026
Date and Time (IST)
Saturday, June 20, 2026, 7:00 PM (IST)
Venue
YS Raja Reddy Cricket Stadium, Kadapa
Broadcast and Live Streaming
JioStar Network Channels and JioHotstar (App & Website)
YS Raja Reddy Cricket Stadium, Kadapa: Pitch Report
Located in a picturesque part of Andhra Pradesh, YS Raja Reddy Cricket Stadium produces close matches thanks to conditions which favour both batters and bowlers. Teams batting first can expect to post totals exceeding 200, but that does not mean those scores are winnable, as evidenced by the Royals of Rayalaseema chasing down 212 against the Kakinada Kings with more than an over to spare.
AMR vs KK: Head-to-Head Record
Matches Played
1
Won By AMR
0
Won By KK
1
No Result
0
Only Meeting
August 8, 2025
AMR vs KK: Predicted Playing XIs
Amaravati Royals:
Yara Sandeep (C), Avinash Pyla, Kirdant Karan Shinde, Seeram Venkata Rahul, Durga Naga Vara Prasad Singupuram (WK), KV Sasikanth, Varun Satvik Tellaputta, Bandaru Ayyappa, Toshith Yadav Makki, Yeswanth Gollapudi, Ahitesh Varma Uddaraju
Kakinada Kings:
Lekhaz Reddy (WK), Muvvala Yuvan, Pitta Arjun Tendulkar, Abhishek Reddy, Manish Golamaru (C), Pinninti Tapaswi, Anjaneyulu, Gadde Samanvith, Kavuri Saiteja, Varri Giri Prasad, S. Ashish
AMR vs KK: Probable Best Performers of the Match
Probable Best Batter: Abhishek Reddy
Abhishek Reddy is currently the second-highest run-scorer in the 2026 Andhra Premier League. He has scored 188 runs from four matches at an average of 62.67 and a strike-rate of above 160. He recently scored 112 against the Royals of Rayalaseema, but his team still finished second best.
Probable Best Bowler: S Ashish
The Kings' best bowler so far this season, Ashish, has picked up nine wickets from four matches and is currently the league's joint second-highest wicket-taker. In a tournament where scores of above 200 are common, Ashish's economy rate is what sets him apart, conceding runs at just 6.73.
Today's Match Prediction : The chasing team to win the match, AMR hold an edge
Yuvraj Singh set to join Delhi Capitals in coaching role ahead of IPL 2027
A senior DC official has confirmed the development, with Yuvraj all set to enter a new foray, having been away from high-profile roles since his retirement from the game in 2019.
A senior DC official has confirmed the development, with Yuvraj all set to enter a new foray, having been away from high-profile roles since his retirement from the game in 2019.
📢Yuvraj Singh set to join Delhi Capitals in coaching role ahead of IPL 2027
Yuvraj Singh set to join Delhi Capitals in coaching role ahead of IPL 2027 (Photo by Alex Davidson-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)
Legendary India cricketer Yuvraj Singh is all set to begin his professional coaching career, joining the Delhi Capitals franchise ahead of the 2027 season of the Indian Premier League (IPL). According to reports, Yuvraj is set to enter the franchise set-up with Sourav Ganguly, his first international captain, at the helm of affairs as the director of cricket.
A senior DC official has confirmed the development, with the World Cup-winning veteran all set to enter a new foray, having been away from high-profile roles since his retirement from the game in 2019. Yuvraj had already been associated with the Delhi-based franchise as a player when he represented the Delhi Daredevils in the 2015 season of the cash-rich tournament.
"Who wouldn't want a Yuvraj Singh in the dugout? Many of his former teammates, including Ashish Nehra, Zaheer Khan and Virender Sehwag, have had coaching stints in the IPL. Yuvraj may be a little late to the party, but he has spent considerable time working with youngsters and understanding the demands of the role," a source was quoted as saying by The Times of India.
Yuvraj, a winner of two IPLs, has built a strong CV for himself before his journey with the Delhi side. He has been famously the man behind the resurgence of Abhishek Sharma as a ferocious T20 cricketer, while also mentoring current India captain Shubman Gill. Ahead of IPL 2026, he also spent time with Rishabh Pant, the Lucknow Super Giants captain for the season.
"He doesn't just train players; he mentors them. It's not limited to phone calls or virtual sessions. He spends hours on the ground, often standing behind the nets and working under the sun alongside his players. It's a genuinely hands-on approach that has benefited numerous cricketers," the source added.
Yuvraj is also lauded by the fraternity to have groomed several Punjab cricketers like Prabhsimran Singh , Anmolpreet Singh, and Naman Dhir, to name a few.
Yuvraj Singh set to join Delhi Capitals in coaching role ahead of IPL 2027 (Photo by Alex Davidson-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)
Legendary India cricketer Yuvraj Singh is all set to begin his professional coaching career, joining the Delhi Capitals franchise ahead of the 2027 season of the Indian Premier League (IPL). According to reports, Yuvraj is set to enter the franchise set-up with Sourav Ganguly, his first international captain, at the helm of affairs as the director of cricket.
A senior DC official has confirmed the development, with the World Cup-winning veteran all set to enter a new foray, having been away from high-profile roles since his retirement from the game in 2019. Yuvraj had already been associated with the Delhi-based franchise as a player when he represented the Delhi Daredevils in the 2015 season of the cash-rich tournament.
"Who wouldn't want a Yuvraj Singh in the dugout? Many of his former teammates, including Ashish Nehra, Zaheer Khan and Virender Sehwag, have had coaching stints in the IPL. Yuvraj may be a little late to the party, but he has spent considerable time working with youngsters and understanding the demands of the role," a source was quoted as saying by The Times of India.
Yuvraj, a winner of two IPLs, has built a strong CV for himself before his journey with the Delhi side. He has been famously the man behind the resurgence of Abhishek Sharma as a ferocious T20 cricketer, while also mentoring current India captain Shubman Gill. Ahead of IPL 2026, he also spent time with Rishabh Pant, the Lucknow Super Giants captain for the season.
"He doesn't just train players; he mentors them. It's not limited to phone calls or virtual sessions. He spends hours on the ground, often standing behind the nets and working under the sun alongside his players. It's a genuinely hands-on approach that has benefited numerous cricketers," the source added.
Yuvraj is also lauded by the fraternity to have groomed several Punjab cricketers like Prabhsimran Singh , Anmolpreet Singh, and Naman Dhir, to name a few.
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Cameron White named Melbourne Stars head coach amid BBL privatisation merger
White has been the head coach of the Renegades for the past two seasons, with his move to the Stars a part of a reshuffle after CV decided to sell its stake amid the surrounding BBL privatisation bid.
White has been the head coach of the Renegades for the past two seasons, with his move to the Stars a part of a reshuffle after CV decided to sell its stake amid the surrounding BBL privatisation bid.
📢Cameron White named Melbourne Stars head coach amid BBL privatisation merger
Cameron White named Melbourne Stars head coach amid BBL privatisation merger (Photo by Mike Owen/Getty Images)
Former Australian batter Cameron White has switched sides and been announced as the coach of the Melbourne Stars amid Cricket Victoria wanting to sell their stake in one of their two teams in the Big Bash League. It has been confirmed that both the Melbourne-based franchises in the league will continue to exist for at least the 2026-27 season.
White has been the head coach of the Melbourne Renegades for the past two seasons, with his move to the Stars a part of a reshuffle after CV decided to sell its stake in the Renegades amid the surrounding BBL privatisation bid. Peter Moores, current coach of the Stars, has also expressed his desire to stay at the club, and it is expected that he will continue as a senior assistant to White.
The Stars will be the franchise run by Cricket Victoria, with the Renegades being run independently, away from the headquarters at Junction Oval in Melbourne. They will still be funded by CV until a full takeover is complete. They are not left with enough time to make the changes to the side for the upcoming BBL season.
"We've reached that point now where we had to make a decision as to which brand we would be going forward with (this season). We will go forward as the Melbourne Stars and we'll continue to look at what that might look like beyond this year. At some point between now and next June, we hope that there will be a change of ownership (for the Renegades)," Cricket Victoria CEO Nick Cummins told SEN Radio, as quoted by cricket.com.au.
Former Stars general manager Max Abbott will take over at the Renegades, with former Australian quick Clint McKay set to lead their high-performance programme and list management. Former Victoria and Stars coach Greg Shipperd has been linked with the Renegades head coach's role.
Shipperd has previously won the state-based Big Bash four times with Victoria, along with four Sheffield Shield titles during his 12-year spell at the club. He also led the Stars to finals appearances in the BBL's first four seasons and has won the competition twice with the Sydney Sixers in 2009 and 2010.
"An independent management for the Renegades is really important for the integrity of the competition. The Renegades are trying to win it, rather than being (CV's) second team. If you are a Renegades fan, Georgia Wareham is going to be playing in the red, Ollie Peake is going to be playing, so your players, your team, are still going to be there," Cummins said.
The BBL governance structure under the new model, changes to CA governance, agreement with the Australian Cricketers' Association on privatisation and player salaries, and future funding and distribution agreements between CA and each of the states are the four hurdles still to be cleared before any move towards privatisation is to be taken.
Once cleared, the teams will follow a self-determination model, making decisions for themselves, after which market valuations of the teams will be tested. It is expected that the Renegades will be the first team to be put on the market.
Cameron White named Melbourne Stars head coach amid BBL privatisation merger (Photo by Mike Owen/Getty Images)
Former Australian batter Cameron White has switched sides and been announced as the coach of the Melbourne Stars amid Cricket Victoria wanting to sell their stake in one of their two teams in the Big Bash League. It has been confirmed that both the Melbourne-based franchises in the league will continue to exist for at least the 2026-27 season.
White has been the head coach of the Melbourne Renegades for the past two seasons, with his move to the Stars a part of a reshuffle after CV decided to sell its stake in the Renegades amid the surrounding BBL privatisation bid. Peter Moores, current coach of the Stars, has also expressed his desire to stay at the club, and it is expected that he will continue as a senior assistant to White.
The Stars will be the franchise run by Cricket Victoria, with the Renegades being run independently, away from the headquarters at Junction Oval in Melbourne. They will still be funded by CV until a full takeover is complete. They are not left with enough time to make the changes to the side for the upcoming BBL season.
"We've reached that point now where we had to make a decision as to which brand we would be going forward with (this season). We will go forward as the Melbourne Stars and we'll continue to look at what that might look like beyond this year. At some point between now and next June, we hope that there will be a change of ownership (for the Renegades)," Cricket Victoria CEO Nick Cummins told SEN Radio, as quoted by cricket.com.au.
Former Stars general manager Max Abbott will take over at the Renegades, with former Australian quick Clint McKay set to lead their high-performance programme and list management. Former Victoria and Stars coach Greg Shipperd has been linked with the Renegades head coach's role.
Shipperd has previously won the state-based Big Bash four times with Victoria, along with four Sheffield Shield titles during his 12-year spell at the club. He also led the Stars to finals appearances in the BBL's first four seasons and has won the competition twice with the Sydney Sixers in 2009 and 2010.
"An independent management for the Renegades is really important for the integrity of the competition. The Renegades are trying to win it, rather than being (CV's) second team. If you are a Renegades fan, Georgia Wareham is going to be playing in the red, Ollie Peake is going to be playing, so your players, your team, are still going to be there," Cummins said.
The BBL governance structure under the new model, changes to CA governance, agreement with the Australian Cricketers' Association on privatisation and player salaries, and future funding and distribution agreements between CA and each of the states are the four hurdles still to be cleared before any move towards privatisation is to be taken.
Once cleared, the teams will follow a self-determination model, making decisions for themselves, after which market valuations of the teams will be tested. It is expected that the Renegades will be the first team to be put on the market.
Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 2026: Match 1, BB vs GM Match Prediction – Who will win today’s match between BB vs GM?
Both sides qualified for the playoffs last time around and will be hoping to do one better this season.
Both sides qualified for the playoffs last time around and will be hoping to do one better this season.
MLC 2026: Match 2, LAS vs SF Match Prediction – Who will win today’s MLC match between Los Angeles Knight Riders vs San Francisco Unicorns?
Los Angeles Knight Riders take on San Francisco Unicorns in match No. 2 of the Major League Cricket (MLC) 2026 at the Grand Prairie Stadium in Dallas on Saturday, June 20.
Los Angeles Knight Riders take on San Francisco Unicorns in match No. 2 of the Major League Cricket (MLC) 2026 at the Grand Prairie Stadium in Dallas on Saturday, June 20.
‘Sachin is God, Vaibhav is the son of God’ - Srikkanth makes massive prediction on teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi
The 15-year-old batter recently earned his maiden call-up to India’s T20I squad for the upcoming tour of Ireland and England after impressing with his performances in franchise cricket.
The 15-year-old batter recently earned his maiden call-up to India’s T20I squad for the upcoming tour of Ireland and England after impressing with his performances in franchise cricket.
📢‘Sachin is God, Vaibhav is the son of God’ - Srikkanth makes massive prediction on teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi
‘Sachin is God, Vaibhav is the son of God’ - Srikkanth makes massive prediction on teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi (Photo by Johan Rynners-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)
Teenage batting prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi continues to generate excitement across Indian cricket, and former India captain K Srikkanth believes the youngster has the potential to influence the future of the longest format of the game.
The 15-year-old batter recently earned his maiden call-up to India’s T20I squad for the upcoming tour of Ireland and England after impressing with his performances in franchise cricket. While Sooryavanshi has already established himself as one of the most exciting young talents in white-ball cricket, Srikkanth feels his biggest impact could come in Test cricket if he continues to develop his game.
Srikkanth highlighted the youngster’s hunger for runs and his ability to dominate bowlers while also possessing the temperament required to bat for long periods.
“What I like about Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is he has an appetite to score runs and an appetite to dominate. At the same time, he could stay there and play also,” Srikkanth was quoted as saying by Times of India.
“If he progresses beyond T20 cricket to one-day cricket, and then to Test cricket, and if he clicks in Test cricket, which he will, I am sure then you will see a revival of Test cricket,” he continued.
According to the former opener, Sooryavanshi possesses the rare ability to draw viewers to the television purely because of the excitement surrounding his batting.
“You need that kind of cricketer today. People switch on the TV just to watch Sooryavanshi. I switch on the TV to watch Sooryavanshi. That is the aura he has created around himself. And he is something amazing.”
The former chief selector also urged fans and experts not to judge the youngster based on his recent performances for India A in Sri Lanka.
“In one series, you don’t judge a person. Come on. That happens. Poor boy. It doesn’t matter. You just give him time. Don’t be in a hurry. Vaibhav, don’t worry about what people talk about you, just play your natural game,” he claimed.
When asked whether Sooryavanshi reminded him of legendary batter Sachin Tendulkar, who made his international debut under Srikkanth’s captaincy, the former cricketer avoided making a direct comparison. However, he came up with a striking remark that summed up his admiration for the youngster.
“Let’s not compare Sachin and Sooryavanshi. Sachin is God of cricket and this boy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, I believe, is the son of God. Let’s put it that way. Just leave Sachin alone. Nobody can come near him,” he concluded.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi scored 117 runs in just four matches, at a strike rate of 153.95 in the ongoing Tri Nation A Series in Sri Lanka 2026.
‘Sachin is God, Vaibhav is the son of God’ - Srikkanth makes massive prediction on teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi (Photo by Johan Rynners-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)
Teenage batting prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi continues to generate excitement across Indian cricket, and former India captain K Srikkanth believes the youngster has the potential to influence the future of the longest format of the game.
The 15-year-old batter recently earned his maiden call-up to India’s T20I squad for the upcoming tour of Ireland and England after impressing with his performances in franchise cricket. While Sooryavanshi has already established himself as one of the most exciting young talents in white-ball cricket, Srikkanth feels his biggest impact could come in Test cricket if he continues to develop his game.
Srikkanth highlighted the youngster’s hunger for runs and his ability to dominate bowlers while also possessing the temperament required to bat for long periods.
“What I like about Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is he has an appetite to score runs and an appetite to dominate. At the same time, he could stay there and play also,” Srikkanth was quoted as saying by Times of India.
“If he progresses beyond T20 cricket to one-day cricket, and then to Test cricket, and if he clicks in Test cricket, which he will, I am sure then you will see a revival of Test cricket,” he continued.
According to the former opener, Sooryavanshi possesses the rare ability to draw viewers to the television purely because of the excitement surrounding his batting.
“You need that kind of cricketer today. People switch on the TV just to watch Sooryavanshi. I switch on the TV to watch Sooryavanshi. That is the aura he has created around himself. And he is something amazing.”
The former chief selector also urged fans and experts not to judge the youngster based on his recent performances for India A in Sri Lanka.
“In one series, you don’t judge a person. Come on. That happens. Poor boy. It doesn’t matter. You just give him time. Don’t be in a hurry. Vaibhav, don’t worry about what people talk about you, just play your natural game,” he claimed.
When asked whether Sooryavanshi reminded him of legendary batter Sachin Tendulkar, who made his international debut under Srikkanth’s captaincy, the former cricketer avoided making a direct comparison. However, he came up with a striking remark that summed up his admiration for the youngster.
“Let’s not compare Sachin and Sooryavanshi. Sachin is God of cricket and this boy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, I believe, is the son of God. Let’s put it that way. Just leave Sachin alone. Nobody can come near him,” he concluded.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi scored 117 runs in just four matches, at a strike rate of 153.95 in the ongoing Tri Nation A Series in Sri Lanka 2026.
📢Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 2026: Match 1, BB vs GM Match Prediction – Who will win today’s match between BB vs GM?
Kalyani Bengaluru Blasters vs Gulbarga Mystics (Source : kalyanibengalurublasters on IG/gulbargamystics on IG)
The 2026 Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 kicks off with the Kalyani Bengaluru Blasters (BB) taking on the Gulbarga Mystics (GM) in Match 1 at the Srikantadatta Narasimha Raja Wadeyar Ground in Mysore on Saturday, June 20. Both sides qualified for the playoffs last time around and will be hoping to do one better this season.
BB come into the tournament after suffering defeat at the hands of the eventual champions, the Coastal Kings Mangaluru. They did, however, defeat GM in the Eliminator, beating them by eight wickets after chasing down a mere 123 in less than 13 overs.
The Mystics, meanwhile, did finish the league phase above their opponents from Saturday. They secured 12 points last season, compared to BB's 10.
BB vs GM: Match Details
Match
Kalyani Bengaluru Blasters vs Gulbarga Mystics, Match 1 , Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20, 2026
Date and Time (IST)
Saturday, June 20, 2026, 2:30 PM (IST)
Venue
Srikantadatta Narasimha Raja Wadeyar Ground, Mysore
Broadcast and Live Streaming
Fancode (App & Website)
Srikantadatta Narasimha Raja Wadeyar Ground, Mysore: Pitch Report
The entire 2025 Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 was played at the Srikantadatta Narasimha Raja Wadeyar Ground in Mysore. The ground saw all kinds of games, including matches where the scores exceeded 200, low-scoring thrillers and a few one-sided run-chases. The pitch offers assistance to both batters and bowlers, with the unpredictable Karnataka weather being the only cause for concern.
BB vs GM: Head-to-Head Record
Matches Played
12
Won By BB
7
Won By GM
5
No Result
0
First Meeting
August 8, 2022
Recent Meeting
August 26, 2025
BB vs GM: Predicted Playing XIs
Kalyani Bengaluru Blasters:
Rohan Patil, Krishnan Shrijith (WK), Rohan Naveen, S Shivaraj, Samit Dravid, Bhuvan Mohan Raju, Praveen Dubey, Shubhang Hegde (C), Vidhwath Kaverappa, MB Darshan, and Nischith N Rao.
Gulbarga Mystics:
Prakhar Chaturvedi, Sharath BR (WK), Manish Pandey (C), Dhruv Prabhakar, Lochan Gowda, Macneil Noronha, Aaditya Nair, Paras Gurbax Arya, Ronit More, Gautam Mishra, and Suhas Purushotham.
BB vs GM: Probable Best Performers of the Match
Probable Best Batter: Manish Pandey
Manish Pandey is the talisman for the Gulbarga Mystics, with high hopes placed on his shoulders to have a good season. The right-handed batter comes into the tournament on the back of decent contributions in the limited game time that he received in the 2026 Indian Premier League, representing the Kolkata Knight Riders.
Probable Best Bowler: Shubhang Hegde
The Blasters captain, Shubhang Hegde, was one of the tournament's best bowlers last season. The 25-year-old took 16 wickets from 12 matches at a brilliant economy rate of just 5.91. He will be hoping for a repeat this season to help his side get to the latter stages of the competition.
Today's Match Prediction : The chasing team to win the match
Kalyani Bengaluru Blasters vs Gulbarga Mystics (Source : kalyanibengalurublasters on IG/gulbargamystics on IG)
The 2026 Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 kicks off with the Kalyani Bengaluru Blasters (BB) taking on the Gulbarga Mystics (GM) in Match 1 at the Srikantadatta Narasimha Raja Wadeyar Ground in Mysore on Saturday, June 20. Both sides qualified for the playoffs last time around and will be hoping to do one better this season.
BB come into the tournament after suffering defeat at the hands of the eventual champions, the Coastal Kings Mangaluru. They did, however, defeat GM in the Eliminator, beating them by eight wickets after chasing down a mere 123 in less than 13 overs.
The Mystics, meanwhile, did finish the league phase above their opponents from Saturday. They secured 12 points last season, compared to BB's 10.
BB vs GM: Match Details
Match
Kalyani Bengaluru Blasters vs Gulbarga Mystics, Match 1 , Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20, 2026
Date and Time (IST)
Saturday, June 20, 2026, 2:30 PM (IST)
Venue
Srikantadatta Narasimha Raja Wadeyar Ground, Mysore
Broadcast and Live Streaming
Fancode (App & Website)
Srikantadatta Narasimha Raja Wadeyar Ground, Mysore: Pitch Report
The entire 2025 Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 was played at the Srikantadatta Narasimha Raja Wadeyar Ground in Mysore. The ground saw all kinds of games, including matches where the scores exceeded 200, low-scoring thrillers and a few one-sided run-chases. The pitch offers assistance to both batters and bowlers, with the unpredictable Karnataka weather being the only cause for concern.
BB vs GM: Head-to-Head Record
Matches Played
12
Won By BB
7
Won By GM
5
No Result
0
First Meeting
August 8, 2022
Recent Meeting
August 26, 2025
BB vs GM: Predicted Playing XIs
Kalyani Bengaluru Blasters:
Rohan Patil, Krishnan Shrijith (WK), Rohan Naveen, S Shivaraj, Samit Dravid, Bhuvan Mohan Raju, Praveen Dubey, Shubhang Hegde (C), Vidhwath Kaverappa, MB Darshan, and Nischith N Rao.
Gulbarga Mystics:
Prakhar Chaturvedi, Sharath BR (WK), Manish Pandey (C), Dhruv Prabhakar, Lochan Gowda, Macneil Noronha, Aaditya Nair, Paras Gurbax Arya, Ronit More, Gautam Mishra, and Suhas Purushotham.
BB vs GM: Probable Best Performers of the Match
Probable Best Batter: Manish Pandey
Manish Pandey is the talisman for the Gulbarga Mystics, with high hopes placed on his shoulders to have a good season. The right-handed batter comes into the tournament on the back of decent contributions in the limited game time that he received in the 2026 Indian Premier League, representing the Kolkata Knight Riders.
Probable Best Bowler: Shubhang Hegde
The Blasters captain, Shubhang Hegde, was one of the tournament's best bowlers last season. The 25-year-old took 16 wickets from 12 matches at a brilliant economy rate of just 5.91. He will be hoping for a repeat this season to help his side get to the latter stages of the competition.
Today's Match Prediction : The chasing team to win the match
📢MLC 2026: Match 2, LAS vs SF Match Prediction – Who will win today’s MLC match between Los Angeles Knight Riders vs San Francisco Unicorns?
MLC 2026: Match 2, LAS vs SF Match Prediction – Who will win today’s MLC match between Los Angeles Knight Riders vs San Francisco Unicorns?. (Source:MLC)
Los Angeles Knight Riders (LAS) take on San Francisco Unicorns (SF) in Match No. 2 of the Major League Cricket (MLC) 2026 at the Grand Prairie Stadium in Dallas on Saturday, June 20 .
The Knight Riders finished last on the table in 2025, recording just two wins from ten matches, losing the other eight games. They will be looking to turn their fortunes around, having named Jason Holder as their new skipper. Holder comes off a stellar season in the IPL and will have an experienced core comprising Andre Fletcher, Alex Hales, Andre Russell, Sunil Narine and Shadley van Schalkwyk to fall back upon.
The Unicorns finished third in 2025, being beaten by champions MI New York in the Eliminator. They will be led by Australian all-rounder Matt Short , who formed a destructive partnership with Finn Allen at the top of the order. They will be joined by the experienced Ravichandran Ashwin, who will become the second Indian international to play in the league.
LAS vs SF: Match Details
Match
Los Angeles Knight Riders vs San Francisco Unicorns, Match 2 , Major League Cricket 2026
Date and Time (IST)
Saturday, June 20, 2:00 AM
Venue
Grand Prairie Stadium, Dallas
Broadcast and Live Streaming
JioStar Network Channels and JioHotstar (App & Website)
Grand Prairie Stadium, Dallas: Pitch Report
The Grand Prairie Stadium in Dallas is a venue which shows its affinity for batters. The wicket is expected to be on the flatter side, with the ball coming onto the bat quite comfortably. Bowlers get help with the new ball in the form of lateral movement, but spinners do not get significant grip or turn. Nine out of the 15 games hosted by the venue in MLC 2025 were won by chasing teams, a template which could be replicated this season, with the Super Kings chasing down a total of 221 against the Seattle Orcas.
LAS vs SF: Head-to-Head T20 Record
Matches Played
4
Won By LAS
1
Won By SF
2
No Result
1
First Meeting
July 8, 2024
Most Recent Meeting
July 7, 2025
LAS vs SF: Predicted Playing XIs
Los Angeles Knight Riders
Andre Fletcher (wk), Unmukt Chand, Alex Hales, Nitish Kumar, Saif Badar, Andre Russell, Sunil Narine , Shadley van Schalkwyk, Ali Khan, Jason Holder (c), Carmi le Roux
San Francisco Unicorns
Finn Allen, Matt Short (c), Sanjay Krishnamurthi, Kusal Perera (wk), Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Hassan Khan, Haris Rauf, Brody Couch, Zia Ul-Haq, Ravichandran Ashwin , Liam Dawson/Peter Siddle
LAS vs SF: Probable Best Performers of the Match
Probable Best Batter: Finn Allen
Finn Allen. (Photo Source: MLC)
San Francisco Unicorns' opener Finn Allen was one of the most destructive batters of the 2025 MLS season. He has earned a reputation for being one of the most feared six-hitters in the game, and his runs at the top will be vital for the Unicorns' fortunes in the season. Allen scored 333 runs at a whopping strike rate of 225.00, which included a mammoth 151 off just 51 balls against Washington Freedom.
Probable Best Bowler: Jason Holder
WI vs PAK 2025, 2nd T20I Review: Jason Holder stars in all-round show as Windies' losing streak ends(Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)
Knight Riders' skipper Jason Holder comes into this tournament on the back of a stellar season in the 2026 IPL with the Gujarat Titans, where he played a key role in their run to the final. Operating as a middle-overs enforcer, he picked up 17 wickets in 11 games at an economy rate of 7.57. He will be hoping to recreate similar performances for the Knight Riders.
Today's Match Prediction : Chasing team to win the match
MLC 2026: Match 2, LAS vs SF Match Prediction – Who will win today’s MLC match between Los Angeles Knight Riders vs San Francisco Unicorns?. (Source:MLC)
Los Angeles Knight Riders (LAS) take on San Francisco Unicorns (SF) in Match No. 2 of the Major League Cricket (MLC) 2026 at the Grand Prairie Stadium in Dallas on Saturday, June 20 .
The Knight Riders finished last on the table in 2025, recording just two wins from ten matches, losing the other eight games. They will be looking to turn their fortunes around, having named Jason Holder as their new skipper. Holder comes off a stellar season in the IPL and will have an experienced core comprising Andre Fletcher, Alex Hales, Andre Russell, Sunil Narine and Shadley van Schalkwyk to fall back upon.
The Unicorns finished third in 2025, being beaten by champions MI New York in the Eliminator. They will be led by Australian all-rounder Matt Short , who formed a destructive partnership with Finn Allen at the top of the order. They will be joined by the experienced Ravichandran Ashwin, who will become the second Indian international to play in the league.
LAS vs SF: Match Details
Match
Los Angeles Knight Riders vs San Francisco Unicorns, Match 2 , Major League Cricket 2026
Date and Time (IST)
Saturday, June 20, 2:00 AM
Venue
Grand Prairie Stadium, Dallas
Broadcast and Live Streaming
JioStar Network Channels and JioHotstar (App & Website)
Grand Prairie Stadium, Dallas: Pitch Report
The Grand Prairie Stadium in Dallas is a venue which shows its affinity for batters. The wicket is expected to be on the flatter side, with the ball coming onto the bat quite comfortably. Bowlers get help with the new ball in the form of lateral movement, but spinners do not get significant grip or turn. Nine out of the 15 games hosted by the venue in MLC 2025 were won by chasing teams, a template which could be replicated this season, with the Super Kings chasing down a total of 221 against the Seattle Orcas.
LAS vs SF: Head-to-Head T20 Record
Matches Played
4
Won By LAS
1
Won By SF
2
No Result
1
First Meeting
July 8, 2024
Most Recent Meeting
July 7, 2025
LAS vs SF: Predicted Playing XIs
Los Angeles Knight Riders
Andre Fletcher (wk), Unmukt Chand, Alex Hales, Nitish Kumar, Saif Badar, Andre Russell, Sunil Narine , Shadley van Schalkwyk, Ali Khan, Jason Holder (c), Carmi le Roux
San Francisco Unicorns
Finn Allen, Matt Short (c), Sanjay Krishnamurthi, Kusal Perera (wk), Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Hassan Khan, Haris Rauf, Brody Couch, Zia Ul-Haq, Ravichandran Ashwin , Liam Dawson/Peter Siddle
LAS vs SF: Probable Best Performers of the Match
Probable Best Batter: Finn Allen
Finn Allen. (Photo Source: MLC)
San Francisco Unicorns' opener Finn Allen was one of the most destructive batters of the 2025 MLS season. He has earned a reputation for being one of the most feared six-hitters in the game, and his runs at the top will be vital for the Unicorns' fortunes in the season. Allen scored 333 runs at a whopping strike rate of 225.00, which included a mammoth 151 off just 51 balls against Washington Freedom.
Probable Best Bowler: Jason Holder
WI vs PAK 2025, 2nd T20I Review: Jason Holder stars in all-round show as Windies' losing streak ends(Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)
Knight Riders' skipper Jason Holder comes into this tournament on the back of a stellar season in the 2026 IPL with the Gujarat Titans, where he played a key role in their run to the final. Operating as a middle-overs enforcer, he picked up 17 wickets in 11 games at an economy rate of 7.57. He will be hoping to recreate similar performances for the Knight Riders.
Today's Match Prediction : Chasing team to win the match
What is India's record at Chennai in One-Day Internationals?
India have won eight ODI matches at Chepauk previously.
India have won eight ODI matches at Chepauk previously.
📢What is India's record at Chennai in One-Day Internationals?
What is India's record at Chennai in One-Day Internationals?. (Photo by Alex Davidson-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)
When India host Afghanistan for the third and final ODI of the ongoing series on Saturday, June 20, they will be looking to complete a clean sweep, having won both the games thus far. This encounter will be played at the M. A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Saturday, June 20, and will mark the first time in almost three years that the Men in Blue will be playing a one-day international at one of the most historic venues.
Rohit Sharma , the attacking India opener, holds a poor record in the format at this venue, having scored just 140 runs in eight matches here at an average of 20.00. Rahmat Shah has the most runs from Afghanistan at Chennai with 113 runs in two innings, including an unbeaten 77.
Expected to feature in tomorrow's clash, Kuldeep Yadav stands as the joint-most successful Indian bowler at the venue with seven wickets in four matches at an average of 25.14 and a best of 3-56. Azmatullah Omarzai (3 wickets in two matches) is the best bowler from the Afghan squad, who is expected to better his record at Chepauk on Saturday.
The Indian team enjoys a decent record at the venue in 50-over contests. They first played here for the 1987 World Cup game against Australia and got off to a losing start. However, they have improved their record massively at the ground, which has a reputation of being a spin-friendly venue, winning eight of the 16 matches here (includes 1 abandoned game).
The Indian team won their most recent clash in Chennai, where they chased down the target against Australia, guided by chase master Virat Kohli 's 85 and KL Rahul's unbeaten 97 during the 2023 ODI World Cup. It will be interesting to see how they fare against Afghanistan in their upcoming contest at the iconic venue, which will be the first day game at the venue after a recent renovation.
India in ODI matches at M. A. Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai
Matches Played
Matches Won
Matches Lost
No Results
First-ever Fixture
Most Recent Fixture
16
08
06
02
October 09, 1987 (Lost)
October 08, 2023 (Won)
India's ODI matches at M. A. Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai
Opposition
Date
Result
Margin
Australia
9 Oct 1987
lost
1 runs
West Indies
23 Oct 1994
won
4 wickets
Pakistan
21 May 1997
lost
35 runs
England
25 Jan 2002
won
4 wickets
New Zealand
23 Oct 2003
N/R
-
South Africa
22 Nov 2005
Abandoned
-
West Indies
27 Jan 2007
lost
3 wickets
New Zealand
10 Dec 2010
won
8 wickets
West Indies
20 Mar 2011
won
80 runs
West Indies
11 Dec 2011
won
34 runs
Pakistan
30 Dec 2012
lost
6 wickets
South Africa
22 Oct 2015
won
35 runs
Australia
17 Sep 2017
won
26 runs
West Indies
15 Dec 2019
lost
8 wickets
Australia
22 Mar 2023
lost
21 runs
Australia
8 Oct 2023
won
6 wickets
(Data Source : Cricinfo)
What is India's record at Chennai in One-Day Internationals?. (Photo by Alex Davidson-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)
When India host Afghanistan for the third and final ODI of the ongoing series on Saturday, June 20, they will be looking to complete a clean sweep, having won both the games thus far. This encounter will be played at the M. A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Saturday, June 20, and will mark the first time in almost three years that the Men in Blue will be playing a one-day international at one of the most historic venues.
Rohit Sharma , the attacking India opener, holds a poor record in the format at this venue, having scored just 140 runs in eight matches here at an average of 20.00. Rahmat Shah has the most runs from Afghanistan at Chennai with 113 runs in two innings, including an unbeaten 77.
Expected to feature in tomorrow's clash, Kuldeep Yadav stands as the joint-most successful Indian bowler at the venue with seven wickets in four matches at an average of 25.14 and a best of 3-56. Azmatullah Omarzai (3 wickets in two matches) is the best bowler from the Afghan squad, who is expected to better his record at Chepauk on Saturday.
The Indian team enjoys a decent record at the venue in 50-over contests. They first played here for the 1987 World Cup game against Australia and got off to a losing start. However, they have improved their record massively at the ground, which has a reputation of being a spin-friendly venue, winning eight of the 16 matches here (includes 1 abandoned game).
The Indian team won their most recent clash in Chennai, where they chased down the target against Australia, guided by chase master Virat Kohli 's 85 and KL Rahul's unbeaten 97 during the 2023 ODI World Cup. It will be interesting to see how they fare against Afghanistan in their upcoming contest at the iconic venue, which will be the first day game at the venue after a recent renovation.
India in ODI matches at M. A. Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai
Matches Played
Matches Won
Matches Lost
No Results
First-ever Fixture
Most Recent Fixture
16
08
06
02
October 09, 1987 (Lost)
October 08, 2023 (Won)
India's ODI matches at M. A. Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai
Opposition
Date
Result
Margin
Australia
9 Oct 1987
lost
1 runs
West Indies
23 Oct 1994
won
4 wickets
Pakistan
21 May 1997
lost
35 runs
England
25 Jan 2002
won
4 wickets
New Zealand
23 Oct 2003
N/R
-
South Africa
22 Nov 2005
Abandoned
-
West Indies
27 Jan 2007
lost
3 wickets
New Zealand
10 Dec 2010
won
8 wickets
West Indies
20 Mar 2011
won
80 runs
West Indies
11 Dec 2011
won
34 runs
Pakistan
30 Dec 2012
lost
6 wickets
South Africa
22 Oct 2015
won
35 runs
Australia
17 Sep 2017
won
26 runs
West Indies
15 Dec 2019
lost
8 wickets
Australia
22 Mar 2023
lost
21 runs
Australia
8 Oct 2023
won
6 wickets
(Data Source : Cricinfo)