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India Cricket Schedule 2026: Complete Fixtures, T20 World Cup & Major Tours Revealed The Indian men's cricket team faces an action-packed 2026 calendar that promises everything supporters could dream of – a home T20 World Cup defence, crucial overseas battles, and a relentless schedule spanning three formats across multiple continents. New Zealand Series Kicks Off Blockbuster Year January sets the tone with New Zealand visiting Indian shores for an eight-match white-ball bonanza. Three ODIs across Vadodara, Rajkot and Indore provide the warm-up before five T20Is sweep through Nagpur, Raipur, Guwahati, Visakhapatnam and Thiruvananthapuram. It's the ideal preparation for what follows. T20 World Cup 2026: India's Title Defence Begins The showpiece event arrives in February as India co-hosts the ICC Men's T20 World Cup alongside Sri Lanka. Suryakumar Yadav's squad launches their campaign against USA at the iconic Wankhede Stadium on February 7, before facing Namibia...

The Indian Premier League rumour mill is in full swing, and all eyes are on Sanju Samson —the Rajasthan Royals skipper whose future hangs tantalizingly in the balance. Whispers from IPL corridors suggest the dynamic wicketkeeper-batter could be plotting a sensational return to Delhi Capitals, reigniting memories of his explosive maiden IPL century in the capital. The Chopra Verdict: Where Will Samson Land? Former India international Aakash Chopra has fanned the flames of speculation, suggesting Samson's Rajasthan chapter may be drawing to a close. With an eye-watering INR 18 crore price tag, only a handful of franchises possess the financial firepower to secure his services. Delhi Capitals, blessed with deep pockets and fond memories of Samson's 2016-17 brilliance, emerge as frontrunners in this high-stakes auction drama. The wicketkeeper's eight-season love affair with Rajasthan appears destined for an emotional farewell, though his next destination remains cricket...

Virat Kohli has once again left fans buzzing with excitement — and a bit of mystery. A single tweet from the cricket icon has sparked massive speculation that he might be eyeing the 2027 World Cup. With constant talk about his possible retirement, Kohli’s post feels like a bold statement that he’s far from finished. The timing couldn’t be better either, as he gears up for his much-awaited ODI comeback on October 19 against Australia. Kohli’s tweet read, “The only time you truly fail, is when you decide to give up.” On the surface, it was a promotional message for his brand Wrogn. But to millions of fans, it sounded like a personal declaration — a reminder of the mindset that built his legendary career. It’s classic Kohli: confident, defiant, and quietly telling the world that he’s not ready to hang up his boots just yet. Even Team India’s head coach, Gautam Gambhir, seems to believe that both Kohli and Rohit Sharma could play a vital role in the 2027 World Cup. Gambhir praised their ex...

After 74 high-octane clashes, countless sixes, and edge-of-the-seat thrillers, IPL 2025 has officially signed off with a poetic finish — Royal Challengers Bengaluru finally lifting their maiden IPL trophy.  In a grand finale against Punjab Kings, spin wizard Krunal Pandya spun magic in Ahmedabad, claiming 2/17 to earn the Player of the Match title.  The RCB skipper Rajat Patidar held the trophy aloft, etching his name into the franchise’s folklore. But the IPL isn't just about the final; it’s about the stars who shone consistently across nearly two months of pulsating action.  Let’s dive into the complete list of IPL 2025 Award Winners — the men who defined the season with bat, ball, and brilliance. 🏆 Full List of IPL 2025 Award Winners 🌟 Most Valuable Player (MVP): Suryakumar Yadav (Mumbai Indians) When SKY is in form, the cricketing world watches in awe. The Mumbai Indians maestro lit up the tournament with 717 runs at a jaw-dropping average of 65 and a strike rate of...

In a bold and unexpected move, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have appointed 31-year-old middle-order batter Rajat Patidar as their new captain for the upcoming 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. The announcement was made at a grand event at the KSCA on Thursday (February 13), marking a fresh chapter for the franchise. Who is Rajat Patidar? Rajat Patidar is an Indian cricketer who plays as a right-handed middle-order batsman. He has been a key player for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and has also represented Madhya Pradesh in domestic cricket . Known for his ability to play spin and pace well, Patidar made headlines with a stunning century in the IPL 2022 playoffs. His consistent performances earned him a retained spot in RCB's squad, and in a surprising move, he has now been appointed as the captain for IPL 2025, replacing Faf du Plessis. A New Leader for a New Era With the release of former skipper Faf du Plessis, RCB found themselv...

Indian cricket fans were left in shock and speculation as the Indian spinner Yuzvendra Chahal known for his on-field antics and social media charm, shared a mysterious post amid swirling rumours about his marriage to choreographer and YouTuber Dhanashree Verma. The couple, who got married in December 2020, now find themselves under the spotlight for all the wrong reasons. Yuzi and Dhanashree: Trouble in Paradise? Fans first sensed trouble when both Chahal and Dhanashree unfollowed each other on Instagram—a move that has often spelled doom for celebrity relationships. In a more dramatic twist, Chahal went a step further and deleted all his photos with Dhanashree from his profile. While Dhanashree still has a few pictures with the cricketer on her account, her decision to unfollow him added fuel to the fire. Reports suggest that the couple has been living separately for the past three months, with whispers of irreconcilable differences growing louder. Though neither Chahal nor Dhanashree...

The ICC Champions Trophy, affectionately known as the “Mini World Cup,” is set to make its long-awaited return, rekindling a spark that once captivated cricket fans across the globe. Once a marquee event, the tournament fell out of favour over a decade ago, with many questioning its relevance. By 2021, those calls to axe the competition were finally heeded, and it was erased from the cricketing calendar. Now, as the cricketing world prepares for its rebirth, the Champions Trophy will return with a bang next spring. From February 19th to March 9th, the cricketing elite will descend upon Pakistan, where eight powerhouse nations will vie for glory. But which teams boast the most illustrious history in the competition? Let’s dive into the archives. India: The Pursuit of a Third Crown India’s relationship with the Champions Trophy is one of perseverance, dominance, and a knack for high drama. With two titles (2002 and 2013) and a runners-up finish in 2000, the Men in Blue have etched their ...

Tim Southee, New Zealand’s prolific paceman and all-time leading wicket-taker across formats, has announced the third Test against England could be his final appearance in red-ball cricket.  If New Zealand qualifies for the World Test Championship (WTC) final next year, he may make himself available for one last hurrah. Southee, 35, will have a fitting end to his career at Seddon Park, Hamilton, his home ground. Reflecting on his 18-year journey, he expressed gratitude, saying, “To play such a big series against the team I began my Test career against and at grounds so special to me is the perfect way to bow out.” The veteran has struggled recently, managing only three wickets on the spin-friendly pitches in India. He relinquished the Test captaincy to Tom Latham on that tour, underscoring his commitment to a gradual transition. Coach Gary Stead praised Southee’s endurance and competitive spirit, calling him “an incredibly tough competitor.” New Zealand have named a 14-man squad fo...

Ricky Ponting is reportedly close to signing a deal with Punjab Kings ahead of IPL 2025, as per Cricbuzz. Having recently parted ways with Delhi Capitals, where he served as head coach for seven seasons, Ponting is expected to bring a wealth of experience and tactical expertise to Punjab. During his tenure with Delhi, Ponting guided the franchise to three consecutive playoff appearances from 2019 to 2021, including their first-ever IPL final in 2020.  However, recent struggles led to his departure earlier this year. Punjab Kings, eager to revamp their team after several lacklustre seasons, are eyeing Ponting as the potential game-changer they need. Punjab Kings, who are yet to claim an IPL title since their debut in 2008, last came close in 2014 as runners-up. With Ponting’s proven track record, fans are hopeful that his leadership could finally steer the franchise towards their maiden trophy.  Though official announcements are awaited, Ponting’s arrival could be pivotal for P...

Rahul Dravid prepares to take on the head coach role for Rajasthan Royals in the IPL 2025 season.  The 52-year-old, who recently coached India to their T20 World Cup triumph in 2024, is set to return to the Royals, a team he captained in 2012 and 2013 and mentored until 2015. Dravid's connection with the Royals runs deep. His leadership during his playing days and subsequent mentorship laid a strong foundation for the franchise. His return as head coach brings a wealth of experience, especially after his successful stint as India's head coach, where he was instrumental in guiding a new generation of cricketers. The move is strategic for the Royals, who are looking to build on their past successes with a strong focus on player development and retention ahead of the upcoming IPL auction. Dravid will reunite with Sanju Samson, whom he mentored during his earlier stint, and who will continue as the team's captain. Kumar Sangakkara will maintain his role as Director of Cricket b...

Steve Smith has committed to Sydney Sixers for the next three years, a move that could see him play in the Big Bash League (BBL) beyond his Test cricket career.  Smith, now 35, could potentially feature in a full BBL season if he retires from Test cricket during this period. His decision comes as fellow Test stars Marnus Labuschagne and Alex Carey also re-signed with their respective BBL teams, Brisbane Heat and Adelaide Strikers. Smith's availability for up to four games in the upcoming season marks a significant boost for the Sixers. The Australian legend, who turns 36 next June, has already proven his value with a memorable two-century cameo in the 2022/23 BBL season. Sydney Sixers’ general manager, Rachael Haynes, hailed Smith’s commitment as “fantastic news” for the club. As the BBL's 14th edition approaches, the participation of these Test stars between their commitments against India and the upcoming Sri Lanka tour adds further excitement to the competition.  Fans will ...

Venkatesh Iyer is all set to make his County Cricket debut with Lancashire, adding another chapter to the storied tradition of Indian players gracing English county sides.  The 29-year-old allrounder, who played for Kolkata Knight Riders in the Indian Premier League, will showcase his talents in the One-Day Cup and a couple of County Championship games. With an impressive List A record, averaging over 44 with a strike rate exceeding 100, Iyer's inclusion is a significant boost for Lancashire.  His statement reflects his enthusiasm: "Playing county cricket for Lancashire, a historic club with a legacy of Indian players, is incredibly exciting. I'm eager to follow in the footsteps of legends like Farokh Engineer, Sourav Ganguly, and VVS Laxman." This stint in English conditions promises to enhance Iyer's game, and fans can look forward to some thrilling performances as he dons the Red Rose at Emirates Old Trafford. We have completed the signing of India internationa...

With Rohit Sharma announcing his retirement from T20Is after the T20 World Cup 2024, the Indian cricket team will be on the lookout for a new leader to steer them in the shortest format.  Here are five potential players who can step up as India's T20I captain: 1. Hardik Pandya Hardik Pandya is the frontrunner to replace Rohit Sharma as the T20I captain. He has already led the Indian T20I side in various series and has been a standout leader in the IPL, guiding the Gujarat Titans to their maiden title in 2022. Pandya’s aggressive style, combined with his ability to inspire and manage players, makes him an ideal candidate. His all-round capabilities and experience will be invaluable in shaping the future of the Indian T20I team. 2. KL Rahul KL Rahul is another strong contender for the captaincy. Known for his calm and composed demeanor, Rahul has already served as vice-captain and has led the Indian team in Rohit's absence. His leadership of Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL has de...

It seems like a thrilling end to Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma's T20I careers, culminating in India's victory in the T20 World Cup final against South Africa.  Kohli's decision to retire after the match, especially after his stellar performance of 76 runs, adds an emotional touch to India's triumph, marking his last hurrah in T20Is. Rohit Sharma, too, announced his retirement from T20Is, capping off a remarkable journey in the format he has cherished. India's win, breaking a decade-long trophy drought in ICC tournaments, underscores their resilience and determination.  Despite early setbacks in the final, Sharma's leadership and the team's collective effort ensured they posted a challenging total and defended it with grit.  South Africa, playing their first ICC final, fought valiantly but fell short in the face of India's bowling prowess in the crucial overs. For Kohli and Sharma, two stalwarts of Indian cricket, this victory and their retirements mark th...

Australia has a rich history of producing top-tier batsmen who dominate the cricketing world. Here are some key factors that contribute to the success of Australian batsmen: Strong Domestic Structure Australia’s domestic cricket structure, including competitions like the Sheffield Shield , is highly competitive and well-organized. Young players are exposed to high standards of cricket early in their careers, preparing them for the rigors of international cricket. Emphasis on Technique From a young age, Australian cricketers are coached to focus on their batting technique. Coaches emphasize the importance of a solid defensive game, footwork, and the ability to adapt to different conditions, whether it's the fast pitches of Perth or the spin-friendly tracks of the subcontinent. Competitive Culture Australia has a strong sporting culture that values competitiveness and resilience. The cricketing environment fosters a never-give-up attitude, mental toughness, and the ability to perfor...

Australia's fast bowler Riley Meredith has officially joined Somerset for their Vitality Blast campaign, committing to the club until at least the quarter-final stage of the competition. The 27-year-old pacer will also be available for the Metro Bank One-Day Cup group stages, along with a "managed number" of Vitality County Championship matches. Expressing his enthusiasm for the stint, the seamer stated, "I'm looking forward to the challenge of playing in English conditions and I can't wait to get started. Somerset are the current Vitality Blast champions, and I'll be doing everything I can to help them retain the title." Meredith's international experience includes five T20Is for Australia, where he claimed eight wickets at an average of 23.50, alongside a solitary ODI appearance against West Indies in 2021. In the T20 format, Meredith boasts an impressive record, having taken 114 wickets in 91 matches at an average of 25.42, with his best figur...

Headlines are buzzing with rumours of Hardik Pandya losing his vice-captaincy position for India in the upcoming T20 World Cup. According to the ever-chatty folks at Cricbuzz, Rishabh Pant might step into the vice-captain shoes for India's T20 World Cup expedition. Well, it seems Pant's been flexing his leadership muscles and knocking it out of the park for Delhi Capitals in this year's IPL.  The BCCI selectors are set for a rendezvous on May 1st to cook up India's T20 World Cup squad. If the gossip mills are to be believed, Hardik Pandya might need to swap his vice-captain cap for a thinking cap. His stint as captain for Mumbai Indians in the IPL hasn't exactly been a masterclass in decision-making. Pandya had his shot at being India's vice-captain during the 2023 ODI World Cup and was all set for an encore in the T20 showdown this year. However, Pant's got the wind in his sails, and the selectors might just ride that wave. As per insider whispers, Pant is ...

Gujarat Titans' star pacer, Mohammed Shami, won't be gracing the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. However, Rishabh Pant is all set to rock the tournament as a wicketkeeper-batter.  And that's not all, Prasidh Krishna from Rajasthan Royals won't be joining the IPL party either. Tough break, I know. So, what's the deal with Shami, the man's recovering from ankle surgery, and it looks like we won't be seeing him in action until September. The surgery went down on February 26, 2024, tackling his pesky right heel problem head-on. According to the official statement from the BCCI, he's under their watchful eye but sadly won't be making it to IPL 2024. Bummer, right? Especially considering he's been out of action since the World Cup final last year. But hey, here's an interesting tidbit for you. Word on the street, or should I say, in the political arena, is that the BJP has its eyes on Shami for a Lok Sabha MP ticket from West Bengal. Yep, politic...

Mumbai Indians (MI) have just dropped a bombshell by appointing Hardik Pandya as their new skipper for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season! The star all-rounder is now the captain, taking over the reins from the legendary Rohit Sharma. And guess what? This wasn't an average transfer deal; it was a mind-blowing INR 15 crore blockbuster trade that brought Hardik back to his roots with the Mumbai Indians, leaving his stint with the Gujarat Titans behind. Some die-hard Rohit Sharma fans are not thrilled about this and have even gone to the extent of unfollowing the MI social media handles. The franchise has witnessed a drop of 0.9 million followers since the announcement – that's from 13.2 million to 12.3 million.  Rohit Sharma led MI to a whopping 87 victories in 158 matches, making him one of the most successful captains in IPL history. During his glorious 10-year stint as skipper, he guided MI to the cricketing summit not once, not twice, but FIVE times! That's r...

India has etched its name as the second most triumphant contender in the annals of ODI World Cup cricket. A remarkable 100-run victory over reigning champions England on a blustery Sunday, October 29, at Lucknow's Ekana Stadium marked their 59th conquest in this prestigious competition. The Men in Blue have now eclipsed New Zealand to seize the coveted second place in the all-time list of ODI World Cup match winners. It is only the formidable five-time champions Australia who have triumphed more often than India in this arena, notching up a staggering 73 wins. India's prowess in ODI World Cups extends beyond mere victories, as they boast the second-highest win percentage in the tournament's history. An impressive 65.56 percent of their matches in the showpiece event have culminated in victory. They find themselves trailing only the Australians, who reign supreme with a remarkable 73 percent, while outclassing the Proteas, who have achieved success in 61.43 percent of their ...