Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 2026: Match 2, SMY vs MW Match Prediction – Who will win today’s match between SMY vs MW?
The new-look Shivamogga Yodhas take on the Mysuru Warriors in Match 2 of the 2026 Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 at the Srikantadatta Narasimha Raja Wadeyar Ground in Mysore on Saturday, June 20.
The new-look Shivamogga Yodhas take on the Mysuru Warriors in Match 2 of the 2026 Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 at the Srikantadatta Narasimha Raja Wadeyar Ground in Mysore on Saturday, June 20.
📢Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 2026: Match 2, SMY vs MW Match Prediction – Who will win today’s match between SMY vs MW?
Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 2026: Match 2, SMY vs MW Match Prediction – Who will win today’s match between SMY vs MW? (SOurce:MaharajaTrophy)
The new-look Shivamogga Yodhas take on the Mysuru Warriors in Match 2 of the 2026 Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 at the Srikantadatta Narasimha Raja Wadeyar Ground in Mysore on Saturday, June 20.
The Yodhas are coming into this season with new colours and hopefully newer fortunes. They finished at the bottom of the table in the 2025 season, managing just three points from 10 games. They are boosted by a solid young domestic core, which includes players like Smaran Ravichandran, Luvnith Sisodia and Dhanush Gowda.
The Warriors also missed out on qualification in the 2025 season, finishing fifth with six points from 10 games. They will be backing their top-level stars Devdutt Padikkal and Vijaykumar Vyshak, along with experienced domestic names like LR Chetan and Manoj Bhandage.
SMY vs MW: Match Details
Match
Shivamogga Yodhas take on the Mysuru Warriors, Match 2 , Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20, 2026
Date and Time (IST)
Saturday, June 20, 2026, 7:00 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 Srikantadatta Narasimha Raja Wadeyar Ground in Mysore hosted the full 2025 Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20. The stadium hosted a variety of games, including low-scoring thrillers, games with scores over 200, and several one-sided run chases. Both batters and bowlers can benefit from the surface, with the only worry being the erratic weather in Karnataka. Due to this being an evening game, the effect of dew could be significant
SMY vs MW: Head-to-Head Record
Matches Played
6
Won By SMY
2
Won By MW
3
No Result
0
First Meeting
August 18, 2023
Recent Meeting
August 24, 2025
SMY vs MW: Predicted Playing XIs
Shivamogga Yodhas:
Luvnith Sisodia (WK), Smaran Ravichandran, Aneesh KV, Harshil Dharmani, Dhanush Gowda, Chiranth Shivarudra, Yashovardhan Parantap, Shreesha Achar, Abhilash Shetty, Naveen MG, Yash Raj Punja
Mysuru Warriors:
Devdutt Padikkal, LR Chethan, SU Karthik, KP Karthikeya, Manoj Bhandage, EJ Jasper, Agastya S, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Ritesh Bhatkal, Monish Reddy, and Lavish Kaushal.
SMY vs MW: Probable Best Performers of the Match
Probable Best Batter: Smaran Ravichandran
Smaran Ravichandran is the senior batter for the Shivampogga Yodhas. Coming off a dominant season in the domestic circuit for Karnataka, he will be expected to go in as the team's main batter. In the 2025 season, he was the second-highest run-getter, scoring 415 runs at a strike rate of 156.02, finishing just behind southpaw Devdutt Padikkal in the run tally.
Probable Best Bowler: Yash Raj Punja
The Yodhas' Yash Raj Punja could be the probable best bowler of the match. The tall leg-spinner was one of the standouts from the season, picking up 23 wickets in 10 matches at an economy of 7.45. His run saw him land an IPL gig with the Rajasthan Royals, where he picked up nine wickets in eight games at an economy of 9.80.
Today's Match Prediction : The chasing team to win the match
Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 2026: Match 2, SMY vs MW Match Prediction – Who will win today’s match between SMY vs MW? (SOurce:MaharajaTrophy)
The new-look Shivamogga Yodhas take on the Mysuru Warriors in Match 2 of the 2026 Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 at the Srikantadatta Narasimha Raja Wadeyar Ground in Mysore on Saturday, June 20.
The Yodhas are coming into this season with new colours and hopefully newer fortunes. They finished at the bottom of the table in the 2025 season, managing just three points from 10 games. They are boosted by a solid young domestic core, which includes players like Smaran Ravichandran, Luvnith Sisodia and Dhanush Gowda.
The Warriors also missed out on qualification in the 2025 season, finishing fifth with six points from 10 games. They will be backing their top-level stars Devdutt Padikkal and Vijaykumar Vyshak, along with experienced domestic names like LR Chetan and Manoj Bhandage.
SMY vs MW: Match Details
Match
Shivamogga Yodhas take on the Mysuru Warriors, Match 2 , Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20, 2026
Date and Time (IST)
Saturday, June 20, 2026, 7:00 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 Srikantadatta Narasimha Raja Wadeyar Ground in Mysore hosted the full 2025 Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20. The stadium hosted a variety of games, including low-scoring thrillers, games with scores over 200, and several one-sided run chases. Both batters and bowlers can benefit from the surface, with the only worry being the erratic weather in Karnataka. Due to this being an evening game, the effect of dew could be significant
SMY vs MW: Head-to-Head Record
Matches Played
6
Won By SMY
2
Won By MW
3
No Result
0
First Meeting
August 18, 2023
Recent Meeting
August 24, 2025
SMY vs MW: Predicted Playing XIs
Shivamogga Yodhas:
Luvnith Sisodia (WK), Smaran Ravichandran, Aneesh KV, Harshil Dharmani, Dhanush Gowda, Chiranth Shivarudra, Yashovardhan Parantap, Shreesha Achar, Abhilash Shetty, Naveen MG, Yash Raj Punja
Mysuru Warriors:
Devdutt Padikkal, LR Chethan, SU Karthik, KP Karthikeya, Manoj Bhandage, EJ Jasper, Agastya S, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Ritesh Bhatkal, Monish Reddy, and Lavish Kaushal.
SMY vs MW: Probable Best Performers of the Match
Probable Best Batter: Smaran Ravichandran
Smaran Ravichandran is the senior batter for the Shivampogga Yodhas. Coming off a dominant season in the domestic circuit for Karnataka, he will be expected to go in as the team's main batter. In the 2025 season, he was the second-highest run-getter, scoring 415 runs at a strike rate of 156.02, finishing just behind southpaw Devdutt Padikkal in the run tally.
Probable Best Bowler: Yash Raj Punja
The Yodhas' Yash Raj Punja could be the probable best bowler of the match. The tall leg-spinner was one of the standouts from the season, picking up 23 wickets in 10 matches at an economy of 7.45. His run saw him land an IPL gig with the Rajasthan Royals, where he picked up nine wickets in eight games at an economy of 9.80.
Today's Match Prediction : The chasing team to win the match
📢'They should have given him a royal send-off' - Kris Srikkanth on Virat Kohli's Test retirement
'They should have given him a royal send-off' - Kris Srikkanth on Virat Kohli's Test retirement (Photo Source: Virat Kohli/Instagram)
Former Indian captain Kris Srikkanth believes that India should have given Virat Kohli a grand farewell prior to his retirement from Test cricket.
The talismanic Kohli retired from the format ahead of the 2025 series in England. He has scored 9,230 runs in 123 Tests at an average of 46.85 with 30 centuries. He is often considered one of the finest batters in the game and is credited with revolutionising India's fortunes in the longest format. Srikkanth stated that Kohli should have played in the series in England, which India eventually drew 2-2.
“I think Virat Kohli should have played the Test series in England, in my opinion. He is a different level. It is not about age. He’s got the passion, aggression; he’s simply amazing. In 20-20 cricket, he is amazing, in IPL as well. Against England, in that series, Virat should have gone, frankly speaking. I think they should have given him a royal send-off. For someone who has done so much for Indian cricket, they should have given him a royal send-off in Test cricket. Unfortunately, it did not happen,” Srikkanth said in an interview with the press.
Srikkanth expressed his opposition towards the BCCI's decision to retire Kohli prematurely. He stated that Kohli, like other cricketing greats, such as Sachin Tendulkar, should have received the leeway to call time on his own. He also opined that Kohli is one of the greatest captains India has ever produced, despite not having lifted a single ICC trophy.
“You should let him alone. Let Virat decide what to do. Like what Sachin did. He is King of Kings. He himself would know what to do, what not to do. He is a very balanced guy. I like his commitment to the game and he is a big team man. He’s been one of the best captains India has produced, especially in Test cricket. But it’s just that he’s not been lucky that he could not win an ICC trophy. But otherwise, in my opinion, he has been one of the best captains India has produced,” he stated.
'He should play the 2027 World Cup' - Srikkanth on Rohit Sharma
Srikkanth further stated that Rohit Sharma should be part of the Indian team till the 2027 Cricket World Cup, and is still one of the best ODI cricketers. Rohit, who also retired from Test cricket alongside Kohli, has been a regular feature in the ODI side. He has scored 11,641 runs at an average of 48.70, with 33 centuries, which also includes three double-centuries.
“Rohit, yes in Test cricket he retired, it was fine. I think it was right. 20-20 they all retired together, which is probably their own decision. In one-day cricket, I still believe Rohit Sharma is one of the best one-day cricketers and ODI openers. I think if he is scoring runs and fit enough, then why not? He should play the 2027 World Cup,” he said.
'They should have given him a royal send-off' - Kris Srikkanth on Virat Kohli's Test retirement (Photo Source: Virat Kohli/Instagram)
Former Indian captain Kris Srikkanth believes that India should have given Virat Kohli a grand farewell prior to his retirement from Test cricket.
The talismanic Kohli retired from the format ahead of the 2025 series in England. He has scored 9,230 runs in 123 Tests at an average of 46.85 with 30 centuries. He is often considered one of the finest batters in the game and is credited with revolutionising India's fortunes in the longest format. Srikkanth stated that Kohli should have played in the series in England, which India eventually drew 2-2.
“I think Virat Kohli should have played the Test series in England, in my opinion. He is a different level. It is not about age. He’s got the passion, aggression; he’s simply amazing. In 20-20 cricket, he is amazing, in IPL as well. Against England, in that series, Virat should have gone, frankly speaking. I think they should have given him a royal send-off. For someone who has done so much for Indian cricket, they should have given him a royal send-off in Test cricket. Unfortunately, it did not happen,” Srikkanth said in an interview with the press.
Srikkanth expressed his opposition towards the BCCI's decision to retire Kohli prematurely. He stated that Kohli, like other cricketing greats, such as Sachin Tendulkar, should have received the leeway to call time on his own. He also opined that Kohli is one of the greatest captains India has ever produced, despite not having lifted a single ICC trophy.
“You should let him alone. Let Virat decide what to do. Like what Sachin did. He is King of Kings. He himself would know what to do, what not to do. He is a very balanced guy. I like his commitment to the game and he is a big team man. He’s been one of the best captains India has produced, especially in Test cricket. But it’s just that he’s not been lucky that he could not win an ICC trophy. But otherwise, in my opinion, he has been one of the best captains India has produced,” he stated.
'He should play the 2027 World Cup' - Srikkanth on Rohit Sharma
Srikkanth further stated that Rohit Sharma should be part of the Indian team till the 2027 Cricket World Cup, and is still one of the best ODI cricketers. Rohit, who also retired from Test cricket alongside Kohli, has been a regular feature in the ODI side. He has scored 11,641 runs at an average of 48.70, with 33 centuries, which also includes three double-centuries.
“Rohit, yes in Test cricket he retired, it was fine. I think it was right. 20-20 they all retired together, which is probably their own decision. In one-day cricket, I still believe Rohit Sharma is one of the best one-day cricketers and ODI openers. I think if he is scoring runs and fit enough, then why not? He should play the 2027 World Cup,” he said.
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📢'We will be making a few changes' - Ryan ten Doeschate confirms changes to XI ahead of India vs Afghanistan 3rd ODI
Ryan ten Doeschate. (Photo Source: ACC/YouTube)
Former Netherlands international and India's Assistant Coach, Ryan ten Doeschate, has spoken about the composition of the side ahead of the third One Day International (ODI) against Afghanistan at the M.A Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Saturday, June 20. The Men in Blue have already secured the three-match series by winning the first two matches in Dharamshala and Lucknow.
Ten Doeschate stated that the main purpose of this series was to try new combinations and thus make necessary changes to the playing XI to give other players a run in. These include resting regular players like Arshdeep Singh and replacing him with someone like Harshit Rana, who was added to the squad at the eleventh hour.
"We will be making a few changes from the first two games. Part of the brief coming into the series was that we wanted to try a few different combinations and give everyone a fair share of games. So someone like Arshdeep [Singh], who has bowled really well in the first two games, he can probably take a rest tomorrow, and one of the batters will also miss out tomorrow and we will go back to playing one of the new spinners," Ryan ten Doeschate said in the pre-match press conference.
Ten Doeschate also stated that the team will most likely have two all-rounders, in Nitish Kumar Reddy and Washington Sundar. However, the top three that played in the second ODI in Lucknow should remain the same, which means Yashasvi Jaiswal will get a second opportunity up the order along with Rohit Sharma.
The versatility of this batting lineup is fantastic, but no, I don't think KL [Rahul] will bat at number three tomorrow. We want to have a good look at Yashasvi [Jaiswal] as well. Obviously, he didn't runs in the last game, so he will probably get another go. Maybe with the combination, we need to look at Nitish [Kumar Reddy] again. Unfortunately, he couldn't play the last game but he needs to start in as well so I would imagine five batters, plus Nitish and Washi [Washington Sundar], that means obviously no space for one of the batters and certainly no changes in the top three from the last game," he added.
India's squad for 3rd ODI vs Afghanistan:
Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill (C), Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (WK), Washington Sundar, Gurnoor Brar, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Prince Yadav, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Harshit Rana, Prasidh Krishna, Harsh Dubey
Ryan ten Doeschate. (Photo Source: ACC/YouTube)
Former Netherlands international and India's Assistant Coach, Ryan ten Doeschate, has spoken about the composition of the side ahead of the third One Day International (ODI) against Afghanistan at the M.A Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Saturday, June 20. The Men in Blue have already secured the three-match series by winning the first two matches in Dharamshala and Lucknow.
Ten Doeschate stated that the main purpose of this series was to try new combinations and thus make necessary changes to the playing XI to give other players a run in. These include resting regular players like Arshdeep Singh and replacing him with someone like Harshit Rana, who was added to the squad at the eleventh hour.
"We will be making a few changes from the first two games. Part of the brief coming into the series was that we wanted to try a few different combinations and give everyone a fair share of games. So someone like Arshdeep [Singh], who has bowled really well in the first two games, he can probably take a rest tomorrow, and one of the batters will also miss out tomorrow and we will go back to playing one of the new spinners," Ryan ten Doeschate said in the pre-match press conference.
Ten Doeschate also stated that the team will most likely have two all-rounders, in Nitish Kumar Reddy and Washington Sundar. However, the top three that played in the second ODI in Lucknow should remain the same, which means Yashasvi Jaiswal will get a second opportunity up the order along with Rohit Sharma.
The versatility of this batting lineup is fantastic, but no, I don't think KL [Rahul] will bat at number three tomorrow. We want to have a good look at Yashasvi [Jaiswal] as well. Obviously, he didn't runs in the last game, so he will probably get another go. Maybe with the combination, we need to look at Nitish [Kumar Reddy] again. Unfortunately, he couldn't play the last game but he needs to start in as well so I would imagine five batters, plus Nitish and Washi [Washington Sundar], that means obviously no space for one of the batters and certainly no changes in the top three from the last game," he added.
India's squad for 3rd ODI vs Afghanistan:
Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill (C), Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (WK), Washington Sundar, Gurnoor Brar, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Prince Yadav, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Harshit Rana, Prasidh Krishna, Harsh Dubey
‘He should bat at No. 4 or 5, not 6’ - Kris Srikkanth questions India’s KL Rahul experimentation
Rahul batted at No. 5 in the opening ODI and played a crucial finishing role, scoring an unbeaten 39 off just 19 deliveries to guide India to victory.
Rahul batted at No. 5 in the opening ODI and played a crucial finishing role, scoring an unbeaten 39 off just 19 deliveries to guide India to victory.
Women's T20 World Cup 2026: Match 15, PAK W vs BAN W Match Prediction – Who will win today’s match between Pakistan Women vs Bangladesh Women?
Pakistan Women will face Bangladesh Women in Match 15 of the Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 on June 20 at the Rose Bowl, Southampton.
Pakistan Women will face Bangladesh Women in Match 15 of the Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 on June 20 at the Rose Bowl, Southampton.
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📢Women's T20 World Cup 2026: Match 15, PAK W vs BAN W Match Prediction – Who will win today’s match between Pakistan Women vs Bangladesh Women?
Women's T20 World Cup 2026: Match 15, PAK W vs BAN W Match Prediction – Who will win today’s match between Pakistan Women vs Bangladesh Women? (Source:iCC)
Pakistan Women will face Bangladesh Women in Match 15 of the Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 on June 20 at the Rose Bowl, Southampton .
Pakistan Women have started the tournament poorly, being beaten by arch-rivals India and South Africa in two games. They were beaten by 64 runs by India, but put on a better showing against the Proteas despite failing to defend a total of 128. They will be looking to pick up wins to get their campaign back on track.
Bangladesh Women started their campaign with a win over the Netherlands, but were beaten in their next match against the dominant Aussies. They will be looking to get back to winning ways against their continental rivals, getting their campaign back on track after the early blip.
PAK W vs BAN W: Match Details
Match
Pakistan Women vs Bangladesh Women, Match 15, Women's T20 World Cup 2026
Date and Time (IST)
Saturday, June 20, 2026, 7:00 PM (IST)
Venue
Rose Bowl, Southampton
Broadcast and Live Streaming
JioStar Network Channels and JioHotstar (App & Website)
Rose Bowl, Southampton Pitch Report
The pitch at the Rose Bowl in Southampton is expected to favour the bowlers marginally, but the contest between bat and ball is expected to be fairly even. Seamers get lateral movement in the air and off the surface, while there is also significant grip and turn on offer for the spinners. Two of the two games played in the venue have been won by teams chasing.
PAK W vs BAN W: Head-to-Head Record
Matches Played
20
Won by PAK W
16
Won by BAN W
04
Tie/NR
00
First-Ever Fixture
August 29, 2012
Most-Recent Fixture
October 29, 2023
PAK W vs BAN W: Predicted Playing XIs
Pakistan Women:
Gull Feroza, Muneeba Ali (wk), Ayesha Zafar, Saira Jabeen, Aliya Riaz, Natalia Pervaiz, Fatima Sana (c), Rameen Shamim, Nashra Sandhu, Tasmia Rubab, Sadia Iqbal
Bangladesh Women:
Dilara Akter, Juairiya Ferdous, Nigar Sultana (c/wk), Sobhana Mostary, Sharmin Akhter, Shorna Akter, Ritu Moni, Nahida Akter, Rabeya Khan, Sultana Khatun, Marufa Akter
PAK W vs BAN W: Probable Best Performers of the Match
Probable Best Batter: Juairiya Ferdous
Juairiya Ferdous (Photo by Sameera Peiris/Getty Images)
Bangladesh opener Juairiya Fedous holds the key to the batting lineup. She scored a half-century in their opening game against the Dutch and despite not getting a score against Australia, will be expected to fire against Pakistan if the team are to have any chance in the contest.
Probable Best Bowler: Fatima Sana
Fatima Sana (Photo by Stuart Leggett/MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Coming off the back of a stellar all-round performance and a newly-earned gig in The 2026 Hundred, hopes of Pakistan's success rest on skipper Fatima Sana's shoulders. She has taken five wickets in two games at an economy rate of 7.7, which includes figures of 3 for 16 against South Africa, a game where they made a chase of 129 difficult for the Proteas.
Today's Match Prediction : Chasing team to win the match
Women's T20 World Cup 2026: Match 15, PAK W vs BAN W Match Prediction – Who will win today’s match between Pakistan Women vs Bangladesh Women? (Source:iCC)
Pakistan Women will face Bangladesh Women in Match 15 of the Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 on June 20 at the Rose Bowl, Southampton .
Pakistan Women have started the tournament poorly, being beaten by arch-rivals India and South Africa in two games. They were beaten by 64 runs by India, but put on a better showing against the Proteas despite failing to defend a total of 128. They will be looking to pick up wins to get their campaign back on track.
Bangladesh Women started their campaign with a win over the Netherlands, but were beaten in their next match against the dominant Aussies. They will be looking to get back to winning ways against their continental rivals, getting their campaign back on track after the early blip.
PAK W vs BAN W: Match Details
Match
Pakistan Women vs Bangladesh Women, Match 15, Women's T20 World Cup 2026
Date and Time (IST)
Saturday, June 20, 2026, 7:00 PM (IST)
Venue
Rose Bowl, Southampton
Broadcast and Live Streaming
JioStar Network Channels and JioHotstar (App & Website)
Rose Bowl, Southampton Pitch Report
The pitch at the Rose Bowl in Southampton is expected to favour the bowlers marginally, but the contest between bat and ball is expected to be fairly even. Seamers get lateral movement in the air and off the surface, while there is also significant grip and turn on offer for the spinners. Two of the two games played in the venue have been won by teams chasing.
PAK W vs BAN W: Head-to-Head Record
Matches Played
20
Won by PAK W
16
Won by BAN W
04
Tie/NR
00
First-Ever Fixture
August 29, 2012
Most-Recent Fixture
October 29, 2023
PAK W vs BAN W: Predicted Playing XIs
Pakistan Women:
Gull Feroza, Muneeba Ali (wk), Ayesha Zafar, Saira Jabeen, Aliya Riaz, Natalia Pervaiz, Fatima Sana (c), Rameen Shamim, Nashra Sandhu, Tasmia Rubab, Sadia Iqbal
Bangladesh Women:
Dilara Akter, Juairiya Ferdous, Nigar Sultana (c/wk), Sobhana Mostary, Sharmin Akhter, Shorna Akter, Ritu Moni, Nahida Akter, Rabeya Khan, Sultana Khatun, Marufa Akter
PAK W vs BAN W: Probable Best Performers of the Match
Probable Best Batter: Juairiya Ferdous
Juairiya Ferdous (Photo by Sameera Peiris/Getty Images)
Bangladesh opener Juairiya Fedous holds the key to the batting lineup. She scored a half-century in their opening game against the Dutch and despite not getting a score against Australia, will be expected to fire against Pakistan if the team are to have any chance in the contest.
Probable Best Bowler: Fatima Sana
Fatima Sana (Photo by Stuart Leggett/MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Coming off the back of a stellar all-round performance and a newly-earned gig in The 2026 Hundred, hopes of Pakistan's success rest on skipper Fatima Sana's shoulders. She has taken five wickets in two games at an economy rate of 7.7, which includes figures of 3 for 16 against South Africa, a game where they made a chase of 129 difficult for the Proteas.
Today's Match Prediction : Chasing team to win the match
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📢‘He should bat at No. 4 or 5, not 6’ - Kris Srikkanth questions India’s KL Rahul experimentation
‘He should bat at No. 4 or 5, not 6’ - Kris Srikkanth questions team India’s experimentation with KL Rahul (Source: Jiostar)
Former India captain and 1983 World Cup winner Kris Srikkanth has raised concerns over the batting position of KL Rahul during India’s ongoing ODI series against Afghanistan. While India have already secured an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series, Srikkanth believes the team management’s handling of Rahul’s role in the middle order is far from ideal.
Rahul batted at No. 5 in the opening ODI and played a crucial finishing role, scoring an unbeaten 39 off just 19 deliveries to guide India to victory. However, in the second ODI in Lucknow, the wicketkeeper-batter was pushed down to No. 6 and was dismissed without opening his account.
Reacting to the move, Srikkanth stated that batting Rahul at No. 6 does not benefit either the player or the team. The former opener suggested that Rahul should be given a more consistent role higher up the order.
Srikkanth emphasised that Rahul is best suited to bat at No. 4 or No. 5 and urged the selectors to adopt a rotation policy while experimenting with players ahead of major tournaments.
“It is not good for KL Rahul and the team if he is batting at six. In my opinion, he must bat at four or five maximum. They can follow a rotation policy, rest the certainties in some matches, give opportunities to others, and then finalise the squad,” Srikkanth said on his YouTube channel.
With the ODI World Cup preparations gathering pace, India have been testing various combinations. However, Srikkanth believes experimentation should not come at the cost of disrupting the roles of established players.
The former India skipper also questioned the scheduling of the Afghanistan series immediately after a hectic cricket calendar that included the IPL and the T20 World Cup.
Following the second ODI, which was played in challenging weather conditions in Lucknow, Srikkanth argued that Indian players deserve a proper break rather than continuing with another international assignment in June.
He highlighted the importance of rest, family time, and mental recovery, suggesting that the men’s team should ideally have a month-long break after the IPL season.
“Afghanistan is not a great team really. It is unfortunate that the players now have to play in Chennai as well, where conditions will be extremely hot. I don’t think international cricket should be scheduled in June immediately after the IPL and the T20 World Cup. The Women’s T20 World Cup is currently going on, so the focus can be on that tournament. There should be at least a one-month break after the IPL. Players need family time, holidays, and most importantly, a mental break,” he concluded.
India will take on Afghanistan in the third and final ODI in Chennai on June 20, aiming to complete a clean sweep.
‘He should bat at No. 4 or 5, not 6’ - Kris Srikkanth questions team India’s experimentation with KL Rahul (Source: Jiostar)
Former India captain and 1983 World Cup winner Kris Srikkanth has raised concerns over the batting position of KL Rahul during India’s ongoing ODI series against Afghanistan. While India have already secured an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series, Srikkanth believes the team management’s handling of Rahul’s role in the middle order is far from ideal.
Rahul batted at No. 5 in the opening ODI and played a crucial finishing role, scoring an unbeaten 39 off just 19 deliveries to guide India to victory. However, in the second ODI in Lucknow, the wicketkeeper-batter was pushed down to No. 6 and was dismissed without opening his account.
Reacting to the move, Srikkanth stated that batting Rahul at No. 6 does not benefit either the player or the team. The former opener suggested that Rahul should be given a more consistent role higher up the order.
Srikkanth emphasised that Rahul is best suited to bat at No. 4 or No. 5 and urged the selectors to adopt a rotation policy while experimenting with players ahead of major tournaments.
“It is not good for KL Rahul and the team if he is batting at six. In my opinion, he must bat at four or five maximum. They can follow a rotation policy, rest the certainties in some matches, give opportunities to others, and then finalise the squad,” Srikkanth said on his YouTube channel.
With the ODI World Cup preparations gathering pace, India have been testing various combinations. However, Srikkanth believes experimentation should not come at the cost of disrupting the roles of established players.
The former India skipper also questioned the scheduling of the Afghanistan series immediately after a hectic cricket calendar that included the IPL and the T20 World Cup.
Following the second ODI, which was played in challenging weather conditions in Lucknow, Srikkanth argued that Indian players deserve a proper break rather than continuing with another international assignment in June.
He highlighted the importance of rest, family time, and mental recovery, suggesting that the men’s team should ideally have a month-long break after the IPL season.
“Afghanistan is not a great team really. It is unfortunate that the players now have to play in Chennai as well, where conditions will be extremely hot. I don’t think international cricket should be scheduled in June immediately after the IPL and the T20 World Cup. The Women’s T20 World Cup is currently going on, so the focus can be on that tournament. There should be at least a one-month break after the IPL. Players need family time, holidays, and most importantly, a mental break,” he concluded.
India will take on Afghanistan in the third and final ODI in Chennai on June 20, aiming to complete a clean sweep.
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MLC 2026: Match 4, TEX vs SF Match Prediction – Who will win today’s MLC match between Texas Super Kings vs San Francisco Unicorns?
The Texas Super Kings (TEX) will play their second game of the 2026 Major League Cricket (MLC).
The Texas Super Kings (TEX) will play their second game of the 2026 Major League Cricket (MLC).
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📢MLC 2026: Match 4, TEX vs SF Match Prediction – Who will win today’s MLC match between Texas Super Kings vs San Francisco Unicorns?
Texas Super Kings vs San Francisco Unicorns (Source : texassuperkings on IG/Source : sfounicorns on IG)
The Texas Super Kings (TEX) will play their second game of the 2026 Major League Cricket (MLC) when they take on San Francisco Unicorns (SF) in Match 4 on Saturday, June 20, at the Grand Prairie Stadium in Dallas, Texas.
TEX come in to the game on the back of a superb victory over the Seattle Ocras in their opening match of the season. The Super Kings chased down 221 runs in the second innings with more than an over to spare, thanks to captain Faf du Plessis' unbeaten century.
SF, on the other hand, will play their second game of the season, having already played against the Los Angeles Knight Riders a day before.
TEX vs SF: Match Details
Match
Texas Super Kings vs San Francisco Unicorns , Match 4 , Major League Cricket 2026
Date and Time (IST)
Sunday, June 21, 2:00 AM (IST)
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 has one of the best pitches to bat on in the United States. Scores of more than 200 were pretty common at the venue during last season's MLC and during the tournament's opening game this year. The wicket also stays batting-friendly even after the first innings, with teams able to chase down hefty totals in relative ease.
TEX vs SF: Head-to-Head T20 Record
Matches Played
5
Won By TEX
2
Won By SF
3
No Result
0
First Meeting
July 25, 2023
Most Recent Meeting
July 5, 2025
TEX vs SF: Predicted Playing XIs
Texas Super Kings:
Faf du Plessis (C), Saiteja Mukkamalla (WK), Rilee Rossouw, Donovan Ferreira, Wiaan Mulder, Shubham Ranjane, Amshi de Silva, Milind Kumar, Mohammad Mohsin, Nandre Burger, Adam Milne
San Francisco Unicorns :
Finn Allen, Aakarshit Gomel, Sanjay Krishnamurthi, Matthew Short (C), Hammad Azam, Lhuan-dre Pretorius (WK), Hassan Khan, Ravichandran Ashwin, Juanoy Drysdale, Haris Rauf, Zia-ul-Haq.
TEX vs SF: Probable Best Performers of the Match
Probable Best Batter: Faf du Plessis
Former South Africa captain Faf du Plessis kick-started the 2026 MLC season in the best possible fashion by hitting a match-winning 113 not out of just 52 balls to help his side secure victory over the Seattle Orcas on the opening game of the season. His presence at the top of the order remains key to the Super Kings' chances of winning the whole thing.
Probable Best Bowler: R. Ashwin
In his first season of playing franchise cricket outside of the Indian Premier League, R Ashwin comes into the MLC 2026 with a host of expectations. The Indian spinner will therefore have a lot of eyeballs on him when the San Francisco Unicorns take the field in Dallas.
Today's Match Prediction : Texas Super Kings to win the match
Texas Super Kings vs San Francisco Unicorns (Source : texassuperkings on IG/Source : sfounicorns on IG)
The Texas Super Kings (TEX) will play their second game of the 2026 Major League Cricket (MLC) when they take on San Francisco Unicorns (SF) in Match 4 on Saturday, June 20, at the Grand Prairie Stadium in Dallas, Texas.
TEX come in to the game on the back of a superb victory over the Seattle Ocras in their opening match of the season. The Super Kings chased down 221 runs in the second innings with more than an over to spare, thanks to captain Faf du Plessis' unbeaten century.
SF, on the other hand, will play their second game of the season, having already played against the Los Angeles Knight Riders a day before.
TEX vs SF: Match Details
Match
Texas Super Kings vs San Francisco Unicorns , Match 4 , Major League Cricket 2026
Date and Time (IST)
Sunday, June 21, 2:00 AM (IST)
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 has one of the best pitches to bat on in the United States. Scores of more than 200 were pretty common at the venue during last season's MLC and during the tournament's opening game this year. The wicket also stays batting-friendly even after the first innings, with teams able to chase down hefty totals in relative ease.
TEX vs SF: Head-to-Head T20 Record
Matches Played
5
Won By TEX
2
Won By SF
3
No Result
0
First Meeting
July 25, 2023
Most Recent Meeting
July 5, 2025
TEX vs SF: Predicted Playing XIs
Texas Super Kings:
Faf du Plessis (C), Saiteja Mukkamalla (WK), Rilee Rossouw, Donovan Ferreira, Wiaan Mulder, Shubham Ranjane, Amshi de Silva, Milind Kumar, Mohammad Mohsin, Nandre Burger, Adam Milne
San Francisco Unicorns :
Finn Allen, Aakarshit Gomel, Sanjay Krishnamurthi, Matthew Short (C), Hammad Azam, Lhuan-dre Pretorius (WK), Hassan Khan, Ravichandran Ashwin, Juanoy Drysdale, Haris Rauf, Zia-ul-Haq.
TEX vs SF: Probable Best Performers of the Match
Probable Best Batter: Faf du Plessis
Former South Africa captain Faf du Plessis kick-started the 2026 MLC season in the best possible fashion by hitting a match-winning 113 not out of just 52 balls to help his side secure victory over the Seattle Orcas on the opening game of the season. His presence at the top of the order remains key to the Super Kings' chances of winning the whole thing.
Probable Best Bowler: R. Ashwin
In his first season of playing franchise cricket outside of the Indian Premier League, R Ashwin comes into the MLC 2026 with a host of expectations. The Indian spinner will therefore have a lot of eyeballs on him when the San Francisco Unicorns take the field in Dallas.
Today's Match Prediction : Texas Super Kings to win the match
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'We will be making a few changes' - Ryan ten Doeschate confirms changes to XI ahead of India vs Afghanistan 3rd ODI
The Men in Blue have already secured the three-match series by winning the first two matches in Dharamshala and Lucknow.
The Men in Blue have already secured the three-match series by winning the first two matches in Dharamshala and Lucknow.
📢'We will be making a few changes' - Ryan ten Doeschate confirms changes to XI ahead of India vs Afghanistan 3rd ODI
Ryan ten Doeschate. (Photo Source: ACC/YouTube)
Former Netherlands international and India's Assistant Coach, Ryan ten Doeschate, has spoken about the composition of the side ahead of the third One Day International (ODI) against Afghanistan at the M.A Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Saturday, June 20. The Men in Blue have already secured the three-match series by winning the first two matches in Dharamshala and Lucknow.
Ten Doeschate stated that the main purpose of this series was to try new combinations and thus make necessary changes to the playing XI to give other players a run in. These include resting regular players like Arshdeep Singh and replacing him with someone like Harshit Rana, who was added to the squad at the eleventh hour.
"We will be making a few changes from the first two games. Part of the brief coming into the series was that we wanted to try a few different combinations and give everyone a fair share of games. So someone like Arshdeep [Singh], who has bowled really well in the first two games, he can probably take a rest tomorrow, and one of the batters will also miss out tomorrow and we will go back to playing one of the new spinners," Ryan ten Doeschate said in the pre-match press conference.
Ten Doeschate also stated that the team will most likely have two all-rounders, in Nitish Kumar Reddy and Washington Sundar. However, the top three that played in the second ODI in Lucknow should remain the same, which means Yashasvi Jaiswal will get a second opportunity up the order along with Rohit Sharma.
The versatility of this batting lineup is fantastic, but no, I don't think KL [Rahul] will bat at number three tomorrow. We want to have a good look at Yashasvi [Jaiswal] as well. Obviously, he didn't runs in the last game, so he will probably get another go. Maybe with the combination, we need to look at Nitish [Kumar Reddy] again. Unfortunately, he couldn't play the last game but he needs to start in as well so I would imagine five batters, plus Nitish and Washi [Washington Sundar], that means obviously no space for one of the batters and certainly no changes in the top three from the last game," he added.
India's squad for 3rd ODI vs Afghanistan:
Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill (C), Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (WK), Washington Sundar, Gurnoor Brar, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Prince Yadav, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Harshit Rana, Prasidh Krishna, Harsh Dubey
Ryan ten Doeschate. (Photo Source: ACC/YouTube)
Former Netherlands international and India's Assistant Coach, Ryan ten Doeschate, has spoken about the composition of the side ahead of the third One Day International (ODI) against Afghanistan at the M.A Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Saturday, June 20. The Men in Blue have already secured the three-match series by winning the first two matches in Dharamshala and Lucknow.
Ten Doeschate stated that the main purpose of this series was to try new combinations and thus make necessary changes to the playing XI to give other players a run in. These include resting regular players like Arshdeep Singh and replacing him with someone like Harshit Rana, who was added to the squad at the eleventh hour.
"We will be making a few changes from the first two games. Part of the brief coming into the series was that we wanted to try a few different combinations and give everyone a fair share of games. So someone like Arshdeep [Singh], who has bowled really well in the first two games, he can probably take a rest tomorrow, and one of the batters will also miss out tomorrow and we will go back to playing one of the new spinners," Ryan ten Doeschate said in the pre-match press conference.
Ten Doeschate also stated that the team will most likely have two all-rounders, in Nitish Kumar Reddy and Washington Sundar. However, the top three that played in the second ODI in Lucknow should remain the same, which means Yashasvi Jaiswal will get a second opportunity up the order along with Rohit Sharma.
The versatility of this batting lineup is fantastic, but no, I don't think KL [Rahul] will bat at number three tomorrow. We want to have a good look at Yashasvi [Jaiswal] as well. Obviously, he didn't runs in the last game, so he will probably get another go. Maybe with the combination, we need to look at Nitish [Kumar Reddy] again. Unfortunately, he couldn't play the last game but he needs to start in as well so I would imagine five batters, plus Nitish and Washi [Washington Sundar], that means obviously no space for one of the batters and certainly no changes in the top three from the last game," he added.
India's squad for 3rd ODI vs Afghanistan:
Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill (C), Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (WK), Washington Sundar, Gurnoor Brar, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Prince Yadav, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Harshit Rana, Prasidh Krishna, Harsh Dubey
The Hundred 2026: Trent Rockets name Sam Billings & Ash Gardner as captains for 2026
Billings is one of the most successful captains in the tournament's history, having led the Oval Invincibles to three consecutive titles from 2023 to 2025.
Billings is one of the most successful captains in the tournament's history, having led the Oval Invincibles to three consecutive titles from 2023 to 2025.
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📢The Hundred 2026: Trent Rockets name Sam Billings & Ash Gardner as captains for 2026
Sam Billings during The Hundred (Source: Matt Lewis - ECB/ECB via Getty Images)
The Trent Rockets have named former Oval Invincibles (now MI London) leader Sam Billings and Ash Gardner as their men's and women's captains, respectively, for The Hundred 2026.
Billings is one of the most successful captains in the tournament's history, having led the Oval-based franchise to three consecutive titles from 2023 to 2025. He was signed in the inaugural auction by the Rockets for GBP 180,000, making him the fourth-most expensive buy under the hammer. He will now be tasked to lead a side packed with international stars, including Ben Duckett, Tim David, Tom Banton and Fin Allen, to name a few.
Despite his prowess in the leadership role, Billings has struggled to contribute with the bat, having scored just 135 runs in the last two seasons of The Hundred, with 31 not out being his highest score.
I’m so looking forward to being with Trent Rockets this year at Trent Bridge. It’s iconic, one of the best grounds in the world, and it’s always been a great place to play. It’s a real honour to be leading out the team this year, and I’m hoping to do all the Rockets fans proud. Here’s to a great summer!" Sam Billings said on the Nottinghamshire website.
Ash Gardner to continue as Trent Rockets Women's captain
The Trent Rockets franchise are keeping things safe with the women's side, with Ash Gardner continuing to lead the side for the 2026 season. The Australian international guided the side to a fourth-placed finish last time around, while contributing towards 187 runs and eight wickets.
2026 will be Gardner's third season in Nottingham, making her an adequate leader for the side. The 29-year-old will captain a side consisting of England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt, along with fellow Australian Beth Mooney and Kim Garth.
"I love being able to lead this team, and we’ve got some fantastic players this year, which is super exciting. I can’t wait to get going, and I’m really excited to see all the fans out at Trent Bridge again this year," Ash Gardner said on the Notts website.
Sam Billings during The Hundred (Source: Matt Lewis - ECB/ECB via Getty Images)
The Trent Rockets have named former Oval Invincibles (now MI London) leader Sam Billings and Ash Gardner as their men's and women's captains, respectively, for The Hundred 2026.
Billings is one of the most successful captains in the tournament's history, having led the Oval-based franchise to three consecutive titles from 2023 to 2025. He was signed in the inaugural auction by the Rockets for GBP 180,000, making him the fourth-most expensive buy under the hammer. He will now be tasked to lead a side packed with international stars, including Ben Duckett, Tim David, Tom Banton and Fin Allen, to name a few.
Despite his prowess in the leadership role, Billings has struggled to contribute with the bat, having scored just 135 runs in the last two seasons of The Hundred, with 31 not out being his highest score.
I’m so looking forward to being with Trent Rockets this year at Trent Bridge. It’s iconic, one of the best grounds in the world, and it’s always been a great place to play. It’s a real honour to be leading out the team this year, and I’m hoping to do all the Rockets fans proud. Here’s to a great summer!" Sam Billings said on the Nottinghamshire website.
Ash Gardner to continue as Trent Rockets Women's captain
The Trent Rockets franchise are keeping things safe with the women's side, with Ash Gardner continuing to lead the side for the 2026 season. The Australian international guided the side to a fourth-placed finish last time around, while contributing towards 187 runs and eight wickets.
2026 will be Gardner's third season in Nottingham, making her an adequate leader for the side. The 29-year-old will captain a side consisting of England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt, along with fellow Australian Beth Mooney and Kim Garth.
"I love being able to lead this team, and we’ve got some fantastic players this year, which is super exciting. I can’t wait to get going, and I’m really excited to see all the fans out at Trent Bridge again this year," Ash Gardner said on the Notts website.
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Women's T20 World Cup 2026: NZ W vs IRE W Today's Match Highlights: Unmissable video recap, POTM, match analysis, stats and more
New Zealand clinched a thriller by four runs in the last over.
New Zealand clinched a thriller by four runs in the last over.
📢Women's T20 World Cup 2026: NZ W vs IRE W Today's Match Highlights: Unmissable video recap, POTM, match analysis, stats and more
Women's T20 World Cup 2026: NZ W vs IRE W Today's Match Highlights: Unmissable video recap, POTM, match analysis, stats and more (Source - Christopher Lee/Getty Image)
How did Match 13 of the Women's T20 World Cup 2026 go between New Zealand Women and Ireland Women?
In a solid thriller contest of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 at the Rose Bowl, Southampton , defending champions New Zealand (NZ W) secured an emphatic four-run win against Ireland (IRE W) on Friday, June 19 .
The contest began with the Irish team coming out to bowl first, having won the toss. The decision seemed to be a perfect one as they reduced the White Ferns to 10 for the loss of three wickets in the fourth over itself. However, a rescue act from skipper Melie Kerr (30 off 24), Brooke Halliday (34 off 37), Izzy Sharp (36 off 28) and the experienced Suzie Bates (19* off 12) eventually took the total to 140-6 after 20 overs.
While Ireland did not have anything huge to achieve, the fall of the first wicket in the second over actually saw the captain-vice-captain duo of Gaby Lewis and Orla Prendergast take charge of the run chase, ensuring no further hiccups until the 18th over. However, the moment both departed, things came back swiftly in New Zealand's control, as Bates held her nerves to help her side defend 15 in the last over.
Best Batting Performance of the Match: Orla Prendergast
When it comes to taking note of the best batting performance of the evening, it would surely go to Orla Prendergast despite her team ending on the losing side in a last-over thriller. On a sluggish track at Southampton, the Irish all-rounder stood her ground for 53 balls, amassing 59 runs. This also included five fours and a solitary six. While she did her job well, the middle order could not reciprocate on the platform provided through her stable knock in the middle.
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Best Bowling Performance of the Match: Melie Kerr
Melie Kerr continued to prove why she is among the best all-rounders in world cricket right now. With the ball, she was once again the star of the match for New Zealand. First she accounted for the fall of Prendergast, from where the game took a crucial turn. A couple of balls later, Kerr provided the second breakthrough from her end, as Rebecca Stokell departed for a silver duck. Kerr's figures read 4-0-23-2.
The skipper stepped up when it mattered most 😤
With Ireland needing 29 off 18, #AmeliaKerr struck twice in the over to swing the momentum firmly back in New Zealand's favour 🤩🙌
ICC Women’s #T20WorldCup 2026 | #NZvIRE pic.twitter.com/WEcGfsv9Dj
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) June 20, 2026
Who won the Player of the Match award?
Taking into account the all-round contributions, the organisers had no hesitation in handing the Player of the Match award to NZ skipper Melie Kerr. Her 30 off 24 on a difficult batting surface followed by a game-changing two-wicket haul in the second innings eventually decided the fate of the match, which went in her team's favour.
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A post shared by ICC (@icc)
When is the next match?
The next match in the Women's T20 World Cup 2026 campaign is between Australia and Netherlands on Saturday, June 20. New Zealand will face Scotland next, while Ireland will ready themselves for the Sri Lankan challenge on June 23.
Women's T20 World Cup 2026: NZ W vs IRE W Today's Match Highlights: Unmissable video recap, POTM, match analysis, stats and more (Source - Christopher Lee/Getty Image)
How did Match 13 of the Women's T20 World Cup 2026 go between New Zealand Women and Ireland Women?
In a solid thriller contest of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 at the Rose Bowl, Southampton , defending champions New Zealand (NZ W) secured an emphatic four-run win against Ireland (IRE W) on Friday, June 19 .
The contest began with the Irish team coming out to bowl first, having won the toss. The decision seemed to be a perfect one as they reduced the White Ferns to 10 for the loss of three wickets in the fourth over itself. However, a rescue act from skipper Melie Kerr (30 off 24), Brooke Halliday (34 off 37), Izzy Sharp (36 off 28) and the experienced Suzie Bates (19* off 12) eventually took the total to 140-6 after 20 overs.
While Ireland did not have anything huge to achieve, the fall of the first wicket in the second over actually saw the captain-vice-captain duo of Gaby Lewis and Orla Prendergast take charge of the run chase, ensuring no further hiccups until the 18th over. However, the moment both departed, things came back swiftly in New Zealand's control, as Bates held her nerves to help her side defend 15 in the last over.
Best Batting Performance of the Match: Orla Prendergast
When it comes to taking note of the best batting performance of the evening, it would surely go to Orla Prendergast despite her team ending on the losing side in a last-over thriller. On a sluggish track at Southampton, the Irish all-rounder stood her ground for 53 balls, amassing 59 runs. This also included five fours and a solitary six. While she did her job well, the middle order could not reciprocate on the platform provided through her stable knock in the middle.
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by ICC (@icc)
Best Bowling Performance of the Match: Melie Kerr
Melie Kerr continued to prove why she is among the best all-rounders in world cricket right now. With the ball, she was once again the star of the match for New Zealand. First she accounted for the fall of Prendergast, from where the game took a crucial turn. A couple of balls later, Kerr provided the second breakthrough from her end, as Rebecca Stokell departed for a silver duck. Kerr's figures read 4-0-23-2.
The skipper stepped up when it mattered most 😤
With Ireland needing 29 off 18, #AmeliaKerr struck twice in the over to swing the momentum firmly back in New Zealand's favour 🤩🙌
ICC Women’s #T20WorldCup 2026 | #NZvIRE pic.twitter.com/WEcGfsv9Dj
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) June 20, 2026
Who won the Player of the Match award?
Taking into account the all-round contributions, the organisers had no hesitation in handing the Player of the Match award to NZ skipper Melie Kerr. Her 30 off 24 on a difficult batting surface followed by a game-changing two-wicket haul in the second innings eventually decided the fate of the match, which went in her team's favour.
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by ICC (@icc)
When is the next match?
The next match in the Women's T20 World Cup 2026 campaign is between Australia and Netherlands on Saturday, June 20. New Zealand will face Scotland next, while Ireland will ready themselves for the Sri Lankan challenge on June 23.
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‘He called me Fixer & Deshdrohi’ - Sreesanth drops bombshell on Gautam Gambhir
The incident had grabbed headlines when Sreesanth first alleged that Gambhir had used the term “fixer” against him during the LLC clash.
The incident had grabbed headlines when Sreesanth first alleged that Gambhir had used the term “fixer” against him during the LLC clash.
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📢‘He called me Fixer & Deshdrohi’ - Sreesanth drops bombshell on Gautam Gambhir
‘He called me Fixer & Deshdrohi’ - S Sreesanth drops bombshell on Gautam Gambhir after Harbhajan Singh boxing fight claim. (Photo Source: X(Twitter)
Former India pacer S Sreesanth has once again opened up about his heated exchange with current India head coach Gautam Gambhir during a Legends League Cricket (LLC) match in December 2023. The former fast bowler has now made fresh allegations, claiming that Gambhir not only called him a “fixer” but also labelled him a “Deshdrohi” during the on-field confrontation.
The incident had grabbed headlines when Sreesanth first alleged that Gambhir had used the term “fixer” against him during the LLC clash. Speaking recently in an interview, the Kerala-born cricketer provided more details about what transpired between the two former India teammates.
According to Sreesanth, the altercation began after he bowled a bouncer to Gambhir during the match. Recalling the sequence of events, the 42-year-old explained that Gambhir initially played an aggressive stroke before tensions escalated between the duo.
“Gauti (Gambhir) stepped out on the first ball and flicked it because he knows my (game), he’s a very good cricketer. I don’t know about the coaching part, but he’s a very good cricketer. So, I bowled the bouncer,” Sreesanth said, narrating his experience in an interview on Lallantop.
Sreesanth further alleged that Gambhir responded with verbal abuse and made remarks that crossed the line.
“And you know what he said? ‘I own you’. It was clear, he abused me. What he shouldn’t have said, he did, he called me a ‘fixer’,” Sreesanth elaborated.
The former India pacer claimed that he attempted to diffuse the situation by checking on Gambhir before the exchange became more intense.
“I leaned forward and asked him, ‘Gauti bhai, are you okay?’ Because I was huge, it looked like I would hit him. Then he was doing ‘F-F’ (using the F-word). Then he again said ‘fixer’, ‘Deshdrohi’,” he further claimed.
Interestingly, Gambhir and Sreesanth were part of two of India’s most memorable triumphs, featuring together in the squads that won the inaugural T20 World Cup 2007 and the ODI World Cup in 2011. However, relations between the two former teammates appear to have deteriorated significantly since their playing days.
The alleged “fixer” remark is believed to be linked to Sreesanth’s involvement in the IPL 2013 spot-fixing controversy. The pacer was initially handed a life ban by the BCCI before it was later reduced to seven years, allowing him to return to competitive cricket in 2020.
Meanwhile, Gambhir has enjoyed considerable success in his coaching career. Since taking charge as India’s head coach, the former opener has guided the Men in Blue to victories in the ICC Champions Trophy and Asia Cup in 2025, followed by a T20 World Cup triumph more recently.
‘He called me Fixer & Deshdrohi’ - S Sreesanth drops bombshell on Gautam Gambhir after Harbhajan Singh boxing fight claim. (Photo Source: X(Twitter)
Former India pacer S Sreesanth has once again opened up about his heated exchange with current India head coach Gautam Gambhir during a Legends League Cricket (LLC) match in December 2023. The former fast bowler has now made fresh allegations, claiming that Gambhir not only called him a “fixer” but also labelled him a “Deshdrohi” during the on-field confrontation.
The incident had grabbed headlines when Sreesanth first alleged that Gambhir had used the term “fixer” against him during the LLC clash. Speaking recently in an interview, the Kerala-born cricketer provided more details about what transpired between the two former India teammates.
According to Sreesanth, the altercation began after he bowled a bouncer to Gambhir during the match. Recalling the sequence of events, the 42-year-old explained that Gambhir initially played an aggressive stroke before tensions escalated between the duo.
“Gauti (Gambhir) stepped out on the first ball and flicked it because he knows my (game), he’s a very good cricketer. I don’t know about the coaching part, but he’s a very good cricketer. So, I bowled the bouncer,” Sreesanth said, narrating his experience in an interview on Lallantop.
Sreesanth further alleged that Gambhir responded with verbal abuse and made remarks that crossed the line.
“And you know what he said? ‘I own you’. It was clear, he abused me. What he shouldn’t have said, he did, he called me a ‘fixer’,” Sreesanth elaborated.
The former India pacer claimed that he attempted to diffuse the situation by checking on Gambhir before the exchange became more intense.
“I leaned forward and asked him, ‘Gauti bhai, are you okay?’ Because I was huge, it looked like I would hit him. Then he was doing ‘F-F’ (using the F-word). Then he again said ‘fixer’, ‘Deshdrohi’,” he further claimed.
Interestingly, Gambhir and Sreesanth were part of two of India’s most memorable triumphs, featuring together in the squads that won the inaugural T20 World Cup 2007 and the ODI World Cup in 2011. However, relations between the two former teammates appear to have deteriorated significantly since their playing days.
The alleged “fixer” remark is believed to be linked to Sreesanth’s involvement in the IPL 2013 spot-fixing controversy. The pacer was initially handed a life ban by the BCCI before it was later reduced to seven years, allowing him to return to competitive cricket in 2020.
Meanwhile, Gambhir has enjoyed considerable success in his coaching career. Since taking charge as India’s head coach, the former opener has guided the Men in Blue to victories in the ICC Champions Trophy and Asia Cup in 2025, followed by a T20 World Cup triumph more recently.
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MLC 2026: Match 5, WAS vs NY Match Prediction – Who will win today’s MLC match between Washington Freedom vs MI New York?
Washington Freedom (WAS) lock horns with MI New York (NY) in match No. 5 of the ongoing Major League Cricket (MLC) 2026 at the Grand Prairie Stadium in Dallas.
Washington Freedom (WAS) lock horns with MI New York (NY) in match No. 5 of the ongoing Major League Cricket (MLC) 2026 at the Grand Prairie Stadium in Dallas.
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📢MLC 2026: Match 5, WAS vs NY Match Prediction – Who will win today’s MLC match between Washington Freedom vs MI New York?
Washington freedom vs MI new york (Source - Washington freedom vs MI new york /Instagram)
Washington Freedom (WAS) lock horns with MI New York (NY) in match No. 5 of the ongoing Major League Cricket (MLC) 2026 at the Grand Prairie Stadium in Dallas.
This is a repeat of last year's final, where MI New York emerged victorious by five runs at the same venue. In MLC 2026, Washington Freedom started with a defeat to Seattle Orcas on Saturday. Steve Smith and Co. posted 216 in 20 overs, but the Orcas chased the total with five wickets and 14 balls to spare.
Meanwhile, defending champions MI New York are all set to start their campaign on Sunday. Led by Nicholas Pooran, MI New York have relied on continuity, retaining most of the players who brought them glory last season. The side is quite balanced, comprising plenty of match-winners with bat and ball.
WAS vs NY: Match Details
Match
Washington Freedom vs MI New York, Match 5 , Major League Cricket 2026
Date and Time (IST)
Sunday, June 21, 6:00 AM (IST)
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 an excellent venue for batters. 200-plus totals have been chased down twice in two 20-over matches. Meanwhile, the game between the San Francisco Unicorns and the Los Angeles Knight Riders was reduced to 14 overs per side due to rain. The Knights chased down a formidable 151-run target with seven wickets and two balls to spare. Winning the toss and opting to bowl first is the better option and defending totals is very difficult at this high-scoring venue.
WAS vs NY: Head-to-Head T20 Record
Matches Played
5
Won By WAS
4
Won By NY
1
No Result
0
First Meeting
July 6, 2024 (WAS Won)
Most Recent Meeting
July 13, 2025 (NY Won)
WAS vs NY: Predicted Playing XIs
Washington Freedom:
Mitchell Owen, Steven Smith (C), Mark Chapman, Andries Gous (WK), Glenn Maxwell, Obus Pienaar, Mukhtar Ahmed, Marco Jansen, Ian Holland, Lockie Ferguson, Saurabh Netravalkar.
MI New York:
Quinton de Kock (WK), Monank Patel, Ryan Rickelton, Nicholas Pooran (C), Tajinder Dhillon, Corey Anderson, Kieron Pollard, Romario Shepherd, Trent Boult, Nosthush Kenjige, Rushil Ugarkar.
WAS vs NY: Probable Best Performers of the Match
Probable Best Batter: Mitchell Owen
Mitchell Owen had a fantastic start to the season. In Washington's first game, he opened the batting with skipper Steven Smith and amassed 61 runs off 25 balls, belting 10 fours and two sixes. He will look to get his team off to another fiery start on Sunday.
Probable Best Bowler: Trent Boult
After a disappointing campaign in the IPL, Trent Boult would want to bounce back strongly in the MLC. The veteran left-arm seamer will have a key role to play with the new ball. If he can strike early, it will make things easier for his fellow bowlers.
Today's Match Prediction : Chasing team to win the match
Washington freedom vs MI new york (Source - Washington freedom vs MI new york /Instagram)
Washington Freedom (WAS) lock horns with MI New York (NY) in match No. 5 of the ongoing Major League Cricket (MLC) 2026 at the Grand Prairie Stadium in Dallas.
This is a repeat of last year's final, where MI New York emerged victorious by five runs at the same venue. In MLC 2026, Washington Freedom started with a defeat to Seattle Orcas on Saturday. Steve Smith and Co. posted 216 in 20 overs, but the Orcas chased the total with five wickets and 14 balls to spare.
Meanwhile, defending champions MI New York are all set to start their campaign on Sunday. Led by Nicholas Pooran, MI New York have relied on continuity, retaining most of the players who brought them glory last season. The side is quite balanced, comprising plenty of match-winners with bat and ball.
WAS vs NY: Match Details
Match
Washington Freedom vs MI New York, Match 5 , Major League Cricket 2026
Date and Time (IST)
Sunday, June 21, 6:00 AM (IST)
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 an excellent venue for batters. 200-plus totals have been chased down twice in two 20-over matches. Meanwhile, the game between the San Francisco Unicorns and the Los Angeles Knight Riders was reduced to 14 overs per side due to rain. The Knights chased down a formidable 151-run target with seven wickets and two balls to spare. Winning the toss and opting to bowl first is the better option and defending totals is very difficult at this high-scoring venue.
WAS vs NY: Head-to-Head T20 Record
Matches Played
5
Won By WAS
4
Won By NY
1
No Result
0
First Meeting
July 6, 2024 (WAS Won)
Most Recent Meeting
July 13, 2025 (NY Won)
WAS vs NY: Predicted Playing XIs
Washington Freedom:
Mitchell Owen, Steven Smith (C), Mark Chapman, Andries Gous (WK), Glenn Maxwell, Obus Pienaar, Mukhtar Ahmed, Marco Jansen, Ian Holland, Lockie Ferguson, Saurabh Netravalkar.
MI New York:
Quinton de Kock (WK), Monank Patel, Ryan Rickelton, Nicholas Pooran (C), Tajinder Dhillon, Corey Anderson, Kieron Pollard, Romario Shepherd, Trent Boult, Nosthush Kenjige, Rushil Ugarkar.
WAS vs NY: Probable Best Performers of the Match
Probable Best Batter: Mitchell Owen
Mitchell Owen had a fantastic start to the season. In Washington's first game, he opened the batting with skipper Steven Smith and amassed 61 runs off 25 balls, belting 10 fours and two sixes. He will look to get his team off to another fiery start on Sunday.
Probable Best Bowler: Trent Boult
After a disappointing campaign in the IPL, Trent Boult would want to bounce back strongly in the MLC. The veteran left-arm seamer will have a key role to play with the new ball. If he can strike early, it will make things easier for his fellow bowlers.
Today's Match Prediction : Chasing team to win the match
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📢'He will not come at No. 3' - Mohammad Kaif picks India’s batting line-up ahead of series vs England
Mohammad Kaif. (Photo by Chirag Wakaskar via Getty Images)
Mohammad Kaif shared his two cents on India's batting line-up ahead of the T20I series against England next month. The Men in Blue will be playing five T20Is and three ODIs against the Three Lions in the United Kingdom next month.
In the ongoing three-match ODI series between India and Afghanistan, Ishan Kishan has done well with the bat, continuing his stellar form from the IPL. He might not have played any game in the series if Virat Kohli had not been ruled out due to a hamstring injury. However, now that Kishan has performed impressively with the bat, there has been a debate on whether Kohli's place in the side is under threat during the England tour. However, Kaif believes that as long as the former India captain is in the squad, no one will be able to bench him.
The former Indian cricketer added that either Kishan or Shreyas Iyer could bat at No. 4 behind Kohli. Meanwhile, for the No. 5 position, he suggested a battle between spin-bowling all-rounders Washington Sundar and Axar Patel. For No.s 6 and 7, Kaif picked KL Rahul and Hardik Pandya, respectively, with an eye on next year's 50-over World Cup.
"You cannot shake Virat Kohli. He has drawn a very big line. I am talking about ODIs, at number three, it is not possible at this point for someone to cross that line and take his place. When a big tournament or a World Cup comes, the batting order will be the same. If Ishan plays also, he will not come at three, he will have to play lower. I think it will be Kohli at three, Shreyas or Ishan at four, Axar or Sundar at five, KL at six and Hardik at seven. I think this will be the team for the World Cup. No one can even become Kohli's shadow at number three at this point, forget taking his place," he said on his YouTube channel.
Kaif believes that despite putting in some stunning performances with the bat for India across the two white-ball formats, Kishan will have to wait for his chances in the ODI leg of the England tour as KL Rahul would be the first-choice wicketkeeper-batter, having fared remarkably in the last few years.
"What KL Rahul has done at six, his place is fixed and he will only keep wickets. Right now it is a phase of experiments with Ishan coming in and that is fine. Maybe KL would have asked for a bit of break too ight now after the IPL and telling Ishan to keep. KL is a proven player and is fit as well now. He will only play. This question has been raised before as well. Someone else coming in will have to wait. There is always a trend of running a team. His form has been great, he is scoring runs and bringing that finishing touch. He will always be ahead and Ishan will have to wait. These guys will get an opportunity once Rohit and Kohli are gone," he added.
Ishan Kishan can be a captaincy material as well: Mohammad Kaif
The cricketer-turned-expert backed Kishan to become a regular in the ODI team soon and opined that he is captaincy material, highlighting his impressive performance as the stand-in skipper of the Sunrisers Hyderabad during this year's IPL, when Pat Cummins was recovering from an injury.
"Ishan Kishan can be a captaincy material as well. He is batting well. He has a sharp brain. When Cummins was not there in the IPL, he captained brilliantly and won games for his team. He backed his bowlers very well. His time will come too," he said.
Mohammad Kaif. (Photo by Chirag Wakaskar via Getty Images)
Mohammad Kaif shared his two cents on India's batting line-up ahead of the T20I series against England next month. The Men in Blue will be playing five T20Is and three ODIs against the Three Lions in the United Kingdom next month.
In the ongoing three-match ODI series between India and Afghanistan, Ishan Kishan has done well with the bat, continuing his stellar form from the IPL. He might not have played any game in the series if Virat Kohli had not been ruled out due to a hamstring injury. However, now that Kishan has performed impressively with the bat, there has been a debate on whether Kohli's place in the side is under threat during the England tour. However, Kaif believes that as long as the former India captain is in the squad, no one will be able to bench him.
The former Indian cricketer added that either Kishan or Shreyas Iyer could bat at No. 4 behind Kohli. Meanwhile, for the No. 5 position, he suggested a battle between spin-bowling all-rounders Washington Sundar and Axar Patel. For No.s 6 and 7, Kaif picked KL Rahul and Hardik Pandya, respectively, with an eye on next year's 50-over World Cup.
"You cannot shake Virat Kohli. He has drawn a very big line. I am talking about ODIs, at number three, it is not possible at this point for someone to cross that line and take his place. When a big tournament or a World Cup comes, the batting order will be the same. If Ishan plays also, he will not come at three, he will have to play lower. I think it will be Kohli at three, Shreyas or Ishan at four, Axar or Sundar at five, KL at six and Hardik at seven. I think this will be the team for the World Cup. No one can even become Kohli's shadow at number three at this point, forget taking his place," he said on his YouTube channel.
Kaif believes that despite putting in some stunning performances with the bat for India across the two white-ball formats, Kishan will have to wait for his chances in the ODI leg of the England tour as KL Rahul would be the first-choice wicketkeeper-batter, having fared remarkably in the last few years.
"What KL Rahul has done at six, his place is fixed and he will only keep wickets. Right now it is a phase of experiments with Ishan coming in and that is fine. Maybe KL would have asked for a bit of break too ight now after the IPL and telling Ishan to keep. KL is a proven player and is fit as well now. He will only play. This question has been raised before as well. Someone else coming in will have to wait. There is always a trend of running a team. His form has been great, he is scoring runs and bringing that finishing touch. He will always be ahead and Ishan will have to wait. These guys will get an opportunity once Rohit and Kohli are gone," he added.
Ishan Kishan can be a captaincy material as well: Mohammad Kaif
The cricketer-turned-expert backed Kishan to become a regular in the ODI team soon and opined that he is captaincy material, highlighting his impressive performance as the stand-in skipper of the Sunrisers Hyderabad during this year's IPL, when Pat Cummins was recovering from an injury.
"Ishan Kishan can be a captaincy material as well. He is batting well. He has a sharp brain. When Cummins was not there in the IPL, he captained brilliantly and won games for his team. He backed his bowlers very well. His time will come too," he said.