Category: News

Jersey Stuns Scotland in Final-Ball Thriller to Keep T20 World Cup Hopes Alive

Jersey Stuns Scotland in Final-Ball Thriller to Keep T20 World Cup Hopes Alive

In one of the most dramatic finishes in European cricket, Jersey pulled off a stunning one-wicket win over Scotland in their final ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Europe Qualifier match in The Hague. This victory not only gave them their first-ever win against Scotland, but also kept them in the hunt for a historic T20 World Cup debut.

🏏 Match Summary:

Scotland: 133/7 (Matthew Cross 43*, Mark Watt 28; Harrison Carlyon 3/26, Ben Ward 2/24)
Jersey: 134/9 (Ben Greenwood 49)
Result: Jersey won by 1 wicket (final ball)


🔥 Jersey Hold Their Nerve in a Nail-Biter

With the pressure mounting and World Cup dreams on the line, Jersey delivered when it mattered the most. Chasing 134, they got off to a solid start thanks to Ben Greenwood, who top-scored with a gutsy 49. However, things got nervy as Scotland’s bowlers triggered a collapse, and Jersey slumped to 134/9.

Needing 1 run off the last ball, Jake Dunford and Charles Perchard held their nerve as Dunford scrambled the winning single, sealing the deal and sending the Jersey camp into wild celebrations.


🗣️ Captain Perchard: “Potentially Life-Defining Moment”

Jersey captain Charles Perchard reflected on the emotional victory, saying:

“Years of graft and hard work and some real disappointments all led up to this moment and we’re delighted. We’ve never beaten a side as good as Scotland before… but we got over the line in the end.”


🧮 Qualification Scenario

Jersey’s hopes of qualifying for the T20 World Cup 2026 in India and Sri Lanka now depend on the outcome of the final Qualifier match:

  • If Italy beats the Netherlands: Jersey qualifies directly as second-place finishers.
  • If the Netherlands wins: Qualification will be decided on net run rate between Netherlands and Jersey.

🇸🇨 Scotland’s Disappointment

For Scotland, this loss is a major blow. The highest-ranked side in the tournament will now miss their fifth straight T20 World Cup. Their campaign was marred by a loss to Italy and a washed-out game against Guernsey.

Scottish skipper Richie Berrington admitted his team was off the mark:

“Unfortunately, we were slightly off and couldn’t quite get over the line. Credit to Jersey – they played good cricket throughout the tournament.”


📸 Key Moments

  • Ben Greenwood’s 49 set the platform for Jersey’s chase.
  • Harrison Carlyon’s 3 wickets rocked Scotland early.
  • Ben Ward’s late six gave Jersey a much-needed push.
  • Dunford’s last-ball single sealed a historic win.

✅ What This Means

This is more than just a win for Jersey – it’s a breakthrough on the European cricket stage. They’ve shown they can compete with top-tier teams and are now just one result away from a World Cup debut.

ICC Men’s T20 World Cup

Top End T20 Series 2025: Nepal Gears Up for World Cup Qualifier With 6 Big Matches in Australia

The Nepal national cricket team is set to test its mettle in one of the most competitive short-format preparatory tournaments of the year — the Top End T20 Series 2025 in Australia. The Cricket Australia-sanctioned event will feature 11 elite and emerging sides, and for Nepal, it’s a critical prelude to the ICC T20 World Cup Asia and East Asia-Pacific Qualifier coming this October in Oman.


📢 Full Fixture: Nepal’s Matches in Top End T20 2025

The Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) has officially confirmed that Nepal will play six league matches in Australia starting August 15. Here’s Nepal’s match schedule (all times local):

DateOpponentVenueTime
Aug 15Northern Territory StrikeDarwin, NTTBC
Aug 16Bangladesh ADarwin, NTTBC
Aug 18Melbourne StarsDarwin, NTTBC
Aug 19Hobart HurricanesDarwin, NTTBC
Aug 20Melbourne RenegadesDarwin, NTTBC
Aug 22Pakistan ShaheensDarwin, NT3:15 PM

Should Nepal qualify for the semifinals and final, the team could play up to eight matches in total.


🌍 Tournament Overview: 11 Teams, High Stakes

The 2025 edition of the Top End T20 Series has expanded significantly. After a modest five-team lineup last year, this year’s tournament welcomes 11 squads, including international ‘A’ teams, Big Bash League academies, and U.S. representation.

🏆 Participating Teams:

  • Nepal
  • Bangladesh A
  • Pakistan Shaheens (Pakistan A)
  • Chicago Kingsmen (USA)
  • NT Strike (Host)
  • Hobart Hurricanes Academy
  • Melbourne Stars Academy
  • Melbourne Renegades Academy
  • Adelaide Strikers Academy
  • Perth Scorchers Academy
  • ACT Comets

This format is designed to expose developing cricketing nations and young players to elite-level T20 competition and strategic diversity.


🇳🇵 Nepal’s Mission: Sharpen Skills Before T20 World Cup Qualifier

Nepal is not just participating—it’s strategically preparing for the T20 World Cup Asia and East Asia-Pacific Qualifier scheduled in October 2025 in Oman.

Led by newly appointed head coach Stuart Law, the team aims to:

  • Adapt to pace-friendly foreign conditions
  • Test new combinations and bench strength
  • Boost confidence against international-level opponents

🔥 Key Players to Watch:

  • Dipendra Singh Airee – Nepal’s finisher and middle-order pillar
  • Sandeep Lamichhane – Leg-spin wizard returning to international rhythm
  • Kushal Bhurtel – Explosive opener
  • Gulsan Jha – Promising all-rounder and seam option
  • Aasif Sheikh – Wicketkeeper and top-order accumulator

Coach Stuart Law emphasized the importance of exposure:

“This tournament gives us the competitive edge we need before October. Facing teams like Bangladesh A and Pakistan Shaheens will tell us exactly where we stand.”


🔍 Group Stage Format: Route to the Final

  • Format: Round-robin league followed by semifinals and final
  • Semifinals: Top 4 teams from the league stage qualify
  • Finals: Winners of the two semifinals meet for the title

The semifinals and finals will likely be played between August 23–25, though final scheduling is awaited.


🗓 Why This Tournament Matters

With only three spots available from the Asia-EAP Qualifier for the T20 World Cup 2026, Nepal must treat every preparatory match with utmost seriousness. The Top End T20 Series provides:

  • Competitive match pressure
  • Adaptability to different team styles
  • Data on player performance for final squad selection

It is also a proving ground for young Nepal talents, particularly for those vying for a spot in the October squad.


📸 Fan Buzz: High Excitement Among Nepalese Diaspora in Australia

Nepalese fans in Darwin, Melbourne, and Perth are already gearing up to support the team. With a large expatriate population, the Top End T20 Series is expected to see vibrant Nepalese support in stadiums—adding emotional and moral backing to the team’s technical journey.


📝 Final Thoughts: Eyes on Australia, Heart on Oman

Nepal’s participation in the Top End T20 Series 2025 isn’t just another tour—it’s a crucial campaign that could define their form and fate in October’s qualifiers. With Stuart Law at the helm, and a blend of youth and experience in the squad, this tournament will either expose their gaps or reinforce their World Cup credentials.

Stay tuned to CricGend.com for:

  • Daily match updates
  • Player performances
  • Exclusive insights
  • Post-match analysis
ICC Men’s T20 World Cup

ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Qualifier 2025: Nepal in Group B with Kuwait and Japan as Oman Gears Up to Host Asia-EAP Showdown

The road to the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 just got more intense. The International Cricket Council (ICC) has officially announced the group division for the Asia and East Asia-Pacific (EAP) Qualifier, to be held from October 8 to 17, 2025, in Oman.

A total of nine teams will compete for three coveted spots at next year’s T20 World Cup, to be hosted jointly by India and Sri Lanka.


📋 Group Division Confirmed

According to the ICC announcement, the teams are split as follows:

🧾 Group A

  • UAE
  • Malaysia
  • Qatar

🧾 Group B

  • Nepal
  • Kuwait
  • Japan

🧾 Group C

  • Oman
  • Papua New Guinea (PNG)
  • Samoa

Each group will play a round-robin stage from October 8 to 10. The top two teams from each group will qualify for the Super Six stage, to be held from October 12 to 17. At the end of that stage, the top three teams will officially qualify for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.


🇳🇵 Nepal’s Campaign: A New Era Under Stuart Law

Nepal enters this qualifier under new leadership. Stuart Law, the former Australian batter and seasoned international coach, was appointed as head coach of Nepal’s men’s team in March 2025, replacing Monty Desai.

Law brings with him experience from stints with West Indies, Bangladesh, and USA. His appointment has been hailed as a major step forward by the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) as the country aims to re-establish itself as a T20 force.

“I’m excited to guide this passionate cricketing nation to new heights,” Law said during his unveiling.
“This qualifier is a huge opportunity.”


🔍 Group B Breakdown: Nepal, Kuwait, Japan

This group is one of the most anticipated. Here’s what to expect:

  • Nepal: A rising cricketing nation with growing fan support and depth in talent. Players like Dipendra Singh Airee, Gulsan Jha, and Sandeep Lamichhane can turn games single-handedly.
  • Kuwait: A dark horse with solid domestic development. They’ve shown promise in recent ACC tournaments.
  • Japan: The most improved East Asia-Pacific side, backed by youth development and ICC investment. Their T20 structure is rapidly maturing.

CricGend Prediction:

  1. Nepal
  2. Japan

🔮 Super Six Prediction & World Cup Qualification

Once six teams move into the Super Six, they’ll face off across groups. Based on recent performances, squad strength, and home advantage, here’s how the Super Six could shape up:

RankTeamReason
1️⃣NepalWell-balanced squad, international coaching, explosive top order
2️⃣UAET20 veterans, powerful batting unit
3️⃣OmanHome advantage, experienced bowling
4️⃣PNGStrong in patches but inconsistent
5️⃣JapanDeveloping fast, but not enough firepower yet
6️⃣MalaysiaCompetitive, but lacks finishing strength

Predicted Qualifiers for ICC T20 World Cup 2026:

  • Nepal 🇳🇵
  • UAE 🇦🇪
  • Oman 🇴🇲

🔥 Players to Watch

  • Dipendra Singh Airee (Nepal) – A powerful all-rounder who thrives in high-pressure moments.
  • Vriitya Aravind (UAE) – Consistent run-getter at the top.
  • Aqib Ilyas (Oman) – All-rounder with match-winning capabilities, especially at home.
  • Assad Vala (PNG) – Veteran leader with game sense and grit.
  • Kendel Kadowaki-Fleming (Japan) – Intelligent captaincy and reliable middle-order bat.
  • Syed Aziz (Malaysia) – Hard-hitting opener who can give rapid starts.

🌍 Women’s EAP Qualifier Also Announced

In related news, the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup EAP Qualifier will take place from September 9–15 in Suva, Fiji. Eight teams, including Papua New Guinea, Japan, Indonesia, and the Philippines, will compete for a spot in the Global Qualifier.


🏁 Final Thoughts: The Stage Is Set

With Nepal drawn alongside Kuwait and Japan, and heavyweights like UAE and Oman also in the mix, the Asia-EAP Qualifier in Oman promises to be a fierce contest. For cricket fans in Asia and the Pacific, October will be a month of passion, upsets, and glory.

👉 Stay tuned to CricGend.com for exclusive previews, live match updates, player interviews, and Super Six coverage as the T20 World Cup 2026 dream inches closer!

Jofra Archer

Jofra Archer Returns to England Test Side After Four-Year Hiatus

England speedster Jofra Archer is set to make his long-awaited return to Test cricket after more than four years, as he has been named in the playing XI for the third Test against India at Lord’s, starting Thursday.

The 30-year-old pacer replaces Josh Tongue in the only change to England’s lineup, with the five-match series currently tied 1-1.

Archer last donned the whites in February 2021, also against India, and has since battled a string of injury setbacks, including recurring elbow and back issues. His return marks a 1,595-day gap between Tests—an absence during which his red-ball career often looked in serious jeopardy.

“It’s really exciting—for Jof, for us, and for the fans,” said England skipper Ben Stokes. “He’s worked incredibly hard, and this comeback is a testament to his resilience. It’s a proud day for him.”

🏏 England XI for 3rd Test vs India:

Ben Duckett, Zak Crawley, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (c), Jamie Smith (wk), Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer, Shoaib Bashir.

While Archer’s return grabs the headlines, England’s decision to stick with both Chris Woakes and Brydon Carse raised eyebrows. Woakes, 36, has taken just three wickets this series but boasts an extraordinary record at Lord’s—32 wickets in seven Tests at an average under 13. Carse, meanwhile, had appeared to struggle with a foot issue but has been passed fit.

Mark Wood, another key pacer, also trained at Lord’s this week as he eyes a return in the final Test at The Oval. If fit, it could set up a rare and explosive pairing of Archer and Wood, who have only played one Test together before.

Archer’s return to Lord’s carries a strong sense of symmetry. This iconic ground witnessed two of his most memorable England performances—bowling the dramatic Super Over in the 2019 World Cup final and rattling Steve Smith with a fiery spell in his Test debut against Australia later that summer.

Though Archer has played just one first-class match in preparation—an 18-over spell for Sussex against Durham—England believe he’s ready.

“If we didn’t think he could get through a Test, he wouldn’t be picked,” said Stokes. “We’re confident he’s ready.”

India have yet to confirm their XI, but Jasprit Bumrah is expected to return after being rested for the second Test.


📌 Key Stat: England have played 53 Tests since Archer’s last appearance.
📌 Watch This Space: Could we see a fiery Archer-Wood duo at The Oval?

Stay tuned to CricGend.com for full match coverage, analysis, and live updates from Lord’s!

Wiaan Mulder

Wiaan Mulder’s 367 Becomes South Africa’s Highest Test Score

Wiaan Mulder Honors Brian Lara by Declaring on 367, Says Test Cricket Legend Deserves to Keep Record*

South African captain Wiaan Mulder chose legacy over records as he declared on 367 not out, just 33 runs short of Brian Lara’s world-record 400 in Test cricket.*

BULAWAYO, July 6, 2025 – South Africa’s stand-in Test captain Wiaan Mulder has drawn global attention after declaring the innings on 367 not out, the fifth-highest individual score in Test cricket history, during the second Test match against Zimbabwe at Bulawayo.

Mulder’s decision came despite having plenty of time and opportunity to chase down Brian Lara’s legendary 400 not out, the highest individual Test score, set against England in 2004. Instead, the 27-year-old chose to prioritize the team’s strategy and honor Lara’s status as a cricketing icon.

“Brian Lara is a legend, let’s be real. For someone of that stature to keep that record is pretty special,” Mulder said in a post-innings interview with SuperSport.

Mulder, leading the Proteas for the first time, ended South Africa’s first innings at 626-5 declared, emphasizing that the decision was made in the team’s best interests and out of respect for the game’s greats. Coach Shukri Conrad reportedly supported the move, telling Mulder to “let the legends keep the really big scores.”

A Record-Breaking Yet Humble Knock

  • 367 not out – Highest individual Test score by a South African
  • 2nd South African to score a Test triple-century after Hashim Amla (311*)
  • 5th-highest individual score in Test history
  • Scored 300 in 297 balls, the second-fastest Test triple century ever

Mulder’s innings began on 264* on day two, but he chose to walk off at lunch, despite having over four days left in the match. His gesture echoes the sportsmanship of Mark Taylor, who declared on 334* in 1998 after equaling Don Bradman’s iconic score.

Top 5 Highest Individual Test Scores

  1. 400 – Brian Lara*, West Indies vs England, 2004
  2. 380 – Matthew Hayden, Australia vs Zimbabwe, 2003
  3. 375 – Brian Lara, West Indies vs England, 1994
  4. 374 – Mahela Jayawardene, Sri Lanka vs South Africa, 2006
  5. 367 – Wiaan Mulder*, South Africa vs Zimbabwe, 2025

Mulder’s historic knock also made him just the 33rd player to score over 300 in Test cricket, and he passed on the chance to become only the 12th player in history to score a quadruple century in first-class cricket.

Coincidentally, Mulder was on the field when Sam Northeast scored 410 for Glamorgan* in 2022 — the most recent quadruple-century in first-class cricket.

As Zimbabwe followed on after being dismissed for 170, South Africa remained in control, but the spotlight remained on Mulder’s selfless act.

India vs Australia

India Roars Back! Akash Deep’s Fiery 10 Wickets & Gill’s Twin Tons Flatten England at Edgbaston

India roared back into the Test series with a resounding 336-run victory over England in the second Test at Edgbaston. With the series now leveled at 1-1, it was a performance to remember—marked by Shubman Gill’s twin centuries and a dream match for Akash Deep, who claimed a 10-wicket haul.

After a setback at Headingley, the Indian team bounced back with grit, skill, and relentless intent. The result: their first-ever Test win at Edgbaston.


🔥 Match Summary:

🏏 India 1st Innings – 587 all out (151 overs)

  • Shubman Gill – Double century (269 run)
  • Support: KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Yashasvi Jaiswal contributed with key knocks.

🏏 England 1st Innings – 407 all out (89.3 overs)

  • Harry Brook – Century
  • Jamie Smith – Century
  • Mohammed Siraj – 6 wickets

Despite centuries from Brook and Smith, England trailed significantly due to India’s massive first-innings lead.

🏏 India 2nd Innings – 427/6 declared

  • Gill scored another century, consolidating India’s advantage.
  • Declaration set England an improbable 608-run target.

🏏 England 2nd Innings – 271 all out (68.1 overs)

  • Akash Deep – 5-wicket haul (added to his 5 in the first innings, completing 10 in the match)
  • Jadeja and others chipped in to wipe out the English resistance.

🌟 Star Performers:

  • 🧤 Shubman Gill: Twin centuries – one in each innings, leading from the front.
  • 🔥 Akash Deep: 10 wickets in the match – a breakthrough performance.
  • 🎯 Mohammed Siraj: 6-wicket burst in England’s first innings, breaking their backbone early.

📉 England’s Collapse

Despite an encouraging first innings with two tons, England’s aggressive “Bazball” philosophy fell apart in the second innings. Under scoreboard pressure and tight Indian bowling, they folded well short of the target, crashing to 271 all out.


📅 What’s Next?

With the series now tied 1-1, all eyes turn to Lord’s for the series decider starting Thursday, July 10. India will take confidence from this comprehensive win, while England will look to regroup and reassess their approach.


Nepal Cricket Team

Nepal to Compete in Australia’s Top End T20 Series Ahead of T20 World Cup Qualifiers

The Nepal national cricket team is set for an exciting international assignment this August, as they gear up to participate in the 2025 Top End T20 Series in Darwin, Australia. The tournament will run from August 14 to 24 and features four international teams, with Nepal being the first to confirm participation.

Crucial Preparation for ICC T20 World Cup Asia Qualifier

This tour comes at a vital time for Team Nepal, with the ICC T20 World Cup Asia Qualifier scheduled for October in Oman. With only three qualification spots available for the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup — jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka — the Darwin series will act as a key preparation platform for Nepal’s World Cup dreams.

Fixtures and Venues

Nepal will arrive in Darwin in early August and is expected to play a minimum of six T20 matches. The matches will be spread across three top venues:

  • DXC Arena
  • TIO Stadium
  • Cazaly’s Arena

The full schedule and remaining teams in the Top End T20 Series will be announced soon, adding to the excitement for fans and analysts alike.

CAN’s Perspective: Exposure in Australian Conditions

Paras Khadka, Secretary of the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN), emphasized the importance of this tour, stating:

“Competing against quality opponents in Australian conditions will provide our players with critical exposure, helping them better understand their game and grow as professional cricketers.”

The series is part of Nepal’s strategic build-up toward the global stage, offering the squad an opportunity to adapt to foreign conditions, sharpen their T20 skills, and gain match fitness before the high-stakes qualifiers.

Busy Season Ahead for Nepal Cricket

Apart from the Top End T20 Series, Nepal will also feature in a T20 series against West Indies in Sharjah later in September, making the coming months one of the busiest and most important phases in recent Nepali cricket history.


What This Means for Nepal Cricket Fans

With increasing international exposure, a competitive fixture list, and the goal of reaching the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, this tour could mark a turning point in Nepal’s cricketing journey.

Stay tuned to CricGend.com for the latest news, squad announcements, fixtures, and match analysis from the Top End T20 Series and beyond.

England Vs India

India vs England LIVE Score: India All Out for 364, Sets 371-Run Target for England in Thrilling Test Match

India vs England Test Series 2025 – Cricket Match Highlights

In a gripping turn of events on Day 4 of the ongoing India vs England Test match, Team India was bowled out for 364 runs in their second innings, setting a challenging 371-run target for England to chase. The match, part of the India tour of England 2025, is perfectly poised for a thrilling finish as the final day approaches.

India All Out for 364: Key Highlights

Resuming the day with a solid lead, India put in a fighting effort with the bat. Skipper Rohit Sharma and veteran batter Virat Kohli played pivotal roles in anchoring the innings. Kohli’s composed half-century kept the scoreboard ticking while the middle and lower order added crucial runs to stretch the lead.

Despite disciplined bowling from the England side, India managed to post 364 all out, giving themselves a healthy lead of 370 runs. The pitch at this stage is showing signs of variable bounce, adding to the drama ahead of England’s fourth-innings chase.

England Bowlers Shine Under Pressure

England’s bowling attack worked hard to restrict India. James Anderson, playing perhaps one of his last home Tests, was economical and effective. Mark Wood’s express pace and Jack Leach’s spin troubled the Indian batters late in the innings. Captain Ben Stokes rotated his bowlers tactically, preventing India from running away with the game.

England Needs 371 to Win: Historic Chase on the Cards?

Chasing 371 runs in the fourth innings of a Test match is a daunting task for any team, especially against a high-quality bowling attack featuring Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Ravichandran Ashwin. However, under the aggressive Bazball approach, England has shown fearlessness in similar situations before.

Openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett will be under pressure to give England a strong start, while Joe Root, Jonny Bairstow, and Stokes will be crucial in navigating the middle overs. With a deteriorating pitch and high scoreboard pressure, Day 5 is set to be a true test of skill and temperament.

What This Means for the Test Series

This match is critical in the context of the India vs England 2025 Test series, with both teams aiming to secure a series-defining win. A victory here could also influence the standings in the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025, making the stakes even higher.

Rishabh Pant

Rishabh Pant Creates History with Twin Centuries at Headingley – A Test for the Ages

Rishabh Pant has once again proven why he is one of the brightest stars in modern-day cricket. On Day 4 of the IND vs ENG Test at Headingley, the explosive wicketkeeper-batter made history by scoring centuries in both innings — becoming the first Asian wicketkeeper to achieve this rare feat in Test cricket.

A Knock of Character and Class

Walking in during a tense situation at 92/3 in the second innings, Pant crafted a sensational century — his second of the match — showcasing maturity, calculated aggression, and trademark flair. His first-innings century (112 off 157 balls) had already given India a strong foundation, but it was his second-innings ton that took India toward a dominant position.

Pant mixed patience with power, especially in the 90s. He refused to take the bait offered by Joe Root and Shoaib Bashir, holding his nerve before unleashing a flurry of boundaries — including a stunning one-handed six — that brought the crowd to its feet. He eventually fell for a brilliant 116, caught at long-on trying to accelerate further, but not before firmly placing India in the driver’s seat with a lead close to 300 runs.

A Milestone Moment in Test Cricket

Pant’s twin hundreds mark a turning point in his already impressive career. He joins a very exclusive club of players with centuries in both innings of a Test — and he’s only the second wicketkeeper in Test history to do it, after Andy Flower. For Indian cricket, this is a watershed moment: no other Indian wicketkeeper has achieved what Pant did at Headingley.

A Comeback to Remember

What makes this feat even more remarkable is that Pant is just returning to Test cricket after a long injury layoff. Many doubted his form, fitness, and readiness for high-level competition. But on a cool day in Leeds, he answered every critic with the bat, silencing doubts and electrifying fans across the globe.

This wasn’t just about scoring runs — it was about lifting the team when it mattered most. Pant’s knock helped India recover from early stumbles and build a commanding position in the match.

The Perfect Test Partner: KL Rahul

While Pant provided the fire, KL Rahul brought calm. The two built a rock-solid partnership in the middle, with Rahul also reaching a well-deserved century — his ninth in Test cricket. Together, they frustrated England’s bowlers and pushed India toward what could be a match-winning lead.

What’s Next?

With England now facing an uphill task in the fourth innings, Pant’s innings might well prove to be the match-winner. The pitch is starting to wear, the lead is closing in on 300, and momentum is firmly with India.

Final Word

Rishabh Pant’s twin centuries at Headingley are more than just runs — they’re a message. A message that Pant is back, better than ever, and ready to carry India forward in this crucial Test series.

For fans, this was not just a performance; it was a moment of magic. For Indian cricket, it was a reminder that greatness often comes from those who dare to play fearlessly.

Stay tuned to CricGend.com for all the latest updates, highlights, and analysis from the India vs England Test series.

Nandan Yadav

Debut Delight: Nandan Yadav Stars with 3-Wicket Haul in ODI Debut Against Netherlands

Nandan Yadav announced his arrival on the international stage in style, delivering a match-winning performance on his ODI debut for Nepal against the Netherlands in the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 clash at Forthill.

The young right-arm pacer became Nepal’s 42nd ODI player and immediately made a name for himself with an impressive bowling spell, finishing with figures of 9-1-39-3. His sharp pace, disciplined line, and fearless approach were instrumental in Nepal’s crucial victory.

Nandan Yadav’s Impactful Debut

Opening the bowling in the second over of the match, Yadav showed no signs of nerves. His first ODI wicket came in just his second over, removing Dutch opener Max O’Dowd, setting the tone for the rest of the innings.

He returned to bowl in the death overs and delivered a crucial blow in the 47th over, dismissing the experienced Roelof van der Merwe and Kyle Klein, sealing his three-wicket haul and ensuring Nepal maintained control of the match.

“It was a special moment for me. Wearing the Nepal jersey and getting that first wicket – I’ll never forget it,” said Yadav after the match, visibly emotional and proud.

Over-by-Over Highlights

  • 2nd Over: Debut spell begins (1-0-7-0)
  • 4th Over: First wicket – Max O’Dowd (2-0-8-1)
  • 14th Over: Maiden over showcasing control and confidence
  • 47th Over: Double strike – van der Merwe & Klein
  • Final Bowling Figures: 9 overs | 1 maiden | 39 runs | 3 wickets | Economy 4.33

Handy With the Bat

In addition to his bowling heroics, Yadav chipped in with a valuable 10 off 12 balls* during Nepal’s innings, proving he can contribute as a reliable lower-order batter.

A Promising Future for Nepal Cricket

Yadav’s sensational debut comes at a crucial time for Nepal, as the team eyes qualification for the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup and builds depth in their fast bowling department. His emergence adds balance to the squad and bolsters Nepal’s pace arsenal ahead of key fixtures.

As Nepal continues its journey in international cricket, Nandan Yadav looks set to become a mainstay in the national setup.

India vs Australia

India vs Australia, Champions Trophy 2025 Semi-Final: Preview, Predictions, and Key Battles

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is reaching its climax, and cricket fans around the world are gearing up for one of the most anticipated matches of the tournament. On March 4, India and Australia will face off in the first semi-final at the Dubai International Stadium. This high-stakes encounter promises to be a thrilling battle between two cricketing powerhouses with a storied rivalry.

Match Details

  • Fixture: India vs Australia, ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Semi-Final
  • Date: Tuesday, March 4, 2025
  • Time: 2:30 PM IST
  • Venue: Dubai International Stadium, UAE

Road to the Semi-Final

India’s Journey

India has been in phenomenal form throughout the tournament, finishing as Group A toppers with three wins in three games. The team showcased its dominance with impressive performances against Pakistan, South Africa, and New Zealand. In their last group-stage match, a 44-run victory over New Zealand saw mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy emerge as a match-winner with a five-wicket haul.

Australia’s Journey

Australia, on the other hand, had a mixed group-stage campaign. They started strong with a victory over England but saw their next two matches washed out due to rain. Despite this setback, they secured a spot in the semi-finals as the second-best team in Group B. However, the absence of key pacers Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc poses a challenge for the Aussies.

Head-to-Head Record

In One Day Internationals (ODIs), Australia has historically held the upper hand against India. Out of 151 encounters:

  • India Wins: 57
  • Australia Wins: 84
  • No Result/Ties: 10

India’s record against Australia in ICC knockout games hasn’t been great in recent years, with just one win in their last four encounters since 2010. The most recent ICC knockout clash between these two teams was the 2023 ODI World Cup final, where Australia defeated India in Ahmedabad to lift the trophy.

Expected Lineups

India’s Probable XI:

  1. Rohit Sharma (c)
  2. Shubman Gill
  3. Virat Kohli
  4. Shreyas Iyer
  5. Axar Patel
  6. KL Rahul (wk)
  7. Hardik Pandya
  8. Ravindra Jadeja
  9. Harshit Rana
  10. Kuldeep Yadav
  11. Varun Chakravarthy

Australia’s Probable XI:

  1. Travis Head
  2. Steven Smith (c)
  3. Josh Inglis (wk)
  4. Marnus Labuschagne
  5. Alex Carey
  6. Glenn Maxwell
  7. Cooper Connolly
  8. Ben Dwarshuis
  9. Nathan Ellis
  10. Adam Zampa
  11. Spencer Johnson

Key Battles to Watch

1. Rohit Sharma vs Australia’s Pacers

Rohit Sharma’s aggressive approach in powerplays can put India in a commanding position early on. However, Australia’s pace attack, led by Nathan Ellis and Spencer Johnson, will look to strike early and dismiss the Indian captain cheaply.

2. Virat Kohli vs Adam Zampa

Virat Kohli has been India’s most reliable batter in high-pressure games, but leg-spinner Adam Zampa has troubled him in the past. This battle in the middle overs will be crucial in determining India’s ability to accelerate later in the innings.

3. Glenn Maxwell vs Indian Spinners

Glenn Maxwell’s ability to take on spinners will be key for Australia. With India likely to rely on Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, and Varun Chakravarthy, Maxwell’s aggressive stroke play could either win Australia the game or lead to his downfall.

Match Prediction

India enters this match as the favorites, given their dominant form and familiarity with the Dubai conditions. Their bowling attack, particularly the spinners, will play a crucial role against an Australian side missing key pacers. However, Australia has a history of rising to the occasion in ICC tournaments, and their experience in high-pressure knockout matches could make them a dangerous opponent.

Prediction: India holds the edge, but Australia is more than capable of staging an upset. Expect a close contest with India having a 60-40 advantage going into the game.

Final Thoughts

With a spot in the Champions Trophy final at stake, this match is set to be a spectacle. India will look to avenge their 2023 World Cup final defeat, while Australia will aim to continue their dominance in ICC tournaments. Cricket fans worldwide can expect a thrilling contest in Dubai!

PM CUP Women

Baitadi Wins Prime Minister’s Cup Women’s Cricket Qualifier!

Baitadi clinches the title of the Prime Minister’s Cup Women’s T20 Far Western Provincial Qualifying Cricket Tournament!

In an exciting final held on Thursday, Baitadi defeated Kanchanpur by 6 wickets to secure the championship. The win was powered by a stellar all-round performance from Janaki Thapa, with contributions from Captain Ritu Kanoujia (22* runs) and Janaki Thapa (14* runs), who guided Baitadi to victory while chasing a modest target of 72 runs in 12.2 overs.

Earlier, Kanchanpur posted a total of 71 runs, with Revati Dhami contributing a strong 41 runs. However, Baitadi’s bowlers, led by Janaki Thapa with 2 wickets, kept the pressure on, leading them to victory.

🏅 Award Highlights:

  • Best Player: Ritu Kanoujia (Baitadi)
  • Best Batter: Bindu Rawal (Kanchanpur)
  • Best Bowler: Karishma Thapa (Baitadi)
  • Emerging Player: Jayanti Bhandari (Doti)

The tournament, which began on Poush 19, saw 7 teams from the province compete for the prestigious title. The national competition for the Prime Minister’s Cup Women’s Cricket will take place in Dhangadhi from Magh 1.

🎉 Congratulations to all the players and teams for their outstanding performances! 🙌

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