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‘Make Test cricket priority’: Harbhajan Singh urges BCCI to make pitches that last five days Harbhajan Singh has urged the ICC and the BCCI to ensure that Test cricket is played on pitches that last the full five days. Expressing his disappointment over the recent trend of matches ending within a couple of days, the former India off-spinner reiterated that Test cricket remains the ‘best’ format as it truly challenges players.“I would make a strong recommendation that Test cricket should be the priority, because that is where you get the best cricket and the cricketers. In Test cricket, you get to see the best competition as it lasts for five days and every day, the challenge becomes different,” Harbhajan said on Friday during an event organised by the Legends Club to celebrate Sachin Tendulkar’s birthday.“Obviously, a lot of things happen on the pitch and accordingly, the people need to change their mindset and adopt to those conditions and come out as a winner. If I was part of any committee in the ICC or the BCCI, I would tell them that to save Test cricket, we must make sure that we play on better pitches, where the game last for five days and does not get over inside three days,” he added.Having represented India in 103 Tests and claimed 417 wickets, Harbhajan believes it is up to the game’s ambassadors to preserve its longest format.Also read | The garden of rebirth: Eden Gardens 2001 through the eyes of a reporter and photographer“If you look at the Ashes or some of the top Test series, it still attracts a lot of people to come over and watch the game. And we can do the same here in India,” Harbhajan said, adding: “Why are we finishing games in inside three days? We need to make sure we produce those kinds of pitches where everybody is in the game.”Back in 2024, India lost a Test series at home against New Zealand, and last year, too, it ended up losing the Test series against South Africa on rank-turners. “I think we are losing those matches because of the pitches, not because of the skill. We need points to reach the final circle of the World Test Championship, and how do we get points? Because of that result-oriented approach, we assumed that the opposition wouldn’t know how to play spin, and in the end, dug our own hole,” Harbhajan said.“It is not fault of the state associations that they produce such pitches, but they do so because that’s how the management wants them to be. The team management wants the match to be over in three days, and that’s why the skill is left out of the game.”On Jaiswal, SooryavanshiOver the last couple of years, several young talents – including Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Ayush Mhatre – have made their presence felt in the IPL and T20s. And there have been talks that they should be fast-tracked to the national team. However, Harbhajan made it clear that they need to prove their mettle to be part of the Test squad.“They will have to make a place for themselves and of course, create enough buzz that they are good enough to be in the squad for Test cricket. If there is someone who is batting the best among them all is – Yashasvi Jaiswal, and we are not even talking about him much,” Harbhajan said.Lauding the young Jaiswal, Harbhajan added: “He has got the perfect mix of what is required in T20 and in Test cricket. He has got the mindset to leave the ball for a session and in the next session, he would start scoring runs. There are a very few with that sort of mindset and he has made a place for himself.Also read | Laxman and Dravid changed the fate of Indian cricket: Sadagoppan Ramesh recalls 2001 miracle at Eden Gardens“His story is also unbelievable; he has come through a lot of struggles and Mumbai Cricket Association gave him a chance and look at where he is now. He is hitting (Mitchell) Starc for a first-ball six.”“Jaiswal, Sooryavanshi and even Ishan Kishan have the same mindset to hit the ball, but at the same time, you need to understand that when the ball moves and conditions differ, you have to have a game where you need to defend the ball,” Harbhajan said, adding: “They will eventually learn, even through failures.“If a 15-year-old boy can hit the ball, he can also block. It is about the mindset, if you give him the chance he will adapt to that. But if you send him to England for a first tour where the ball will swing, it will not be a matter of intelligence. But if we want him to play Test cricket we will have to nurture him.”‘The art of spin bowling has gone out of the window’The seasoned tweaker also expressed his disappointment on spin bowling losing its sheen. “The art of spin bowling has gone out of the window. I rarely see people spinning the ball. Spinners are supposed to spin the ball and if you are not spinning the ball, you are making things easy for the batter,” Harbhajan said.“Whether you are playing T20 or Test cricket, if you are able to spin the ball and if you can get something out of the pitch, that is where your class comes into the picture. Otherwise, anyone can roll over their arm…”But he also insisted that those mastering the craft are still faring well. “Yuzvendra Chahal is doing it, no one can get hold of him. Yesterday (Thursday) Akeal (Hosein) and Noor (Ahmad) for Chennai Super Kings (in an IPL match against Mumbai Indians). I always talk about spinners having a big heart to bowl, we cannot bowl bouncers or yorkers and the only way we can get people out is by deceiving them in the air. And if they do not bowl slow (through the air), do not spin, how will a batter get out?” Harbhajan wondered.Also read | It changed the perception of a cricket fan towards Test cricket: Venkatapathy Raju on 2001 Eden Gardens Test“Wankhede is the place to bowl spin. The ball should make a half-a-moon shape through your hand and if it is not happening, then the ball will not bounce and that is what the batter is left wanting. People who are applying themselves, they are successful even in T20Is, but those who are not are only filling up the spots in Test cricket, they are just doing the job of containing and not taking wickets,” Harbhajan, who recently had sessions with the spinners at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, pointed.Mumbai over PunjabDuring a conversation with Ajinkya Naik, the president of the Mumbai Cricket Association, Harbhajan was asked whether he would want his son to play for Mumbai or for Punjab if he chose to pursue cricket.Harbhajan replied with a smile: “Since he’s born and raised in Mumbai, I will send him to play for Mumbai if he ever decides to take the sport. I will never push him.”Published on Apr 24, 2026 #Test #cricket #priority #Harbhajan #Singh #urges #BCCI #pitches #days

‘Make Test cricket priority’: Harbhajan Singh urges BCCI to make pitches that last five days

Harbhajan Singh has urged the ICC and the BCCI to ensure that Test cricket is played on pitches that last the full five days. Expressing his disappointment over the recent trend of matches ending within a couple of days, the former India off-spinner reiterated that Test cricket remains the ‘best’ format as it truly challenges players.

“I would make a strong recommendation that Test cricket should be the priority, because that is where you get the best cricket and the cricketers. In Test cricket, you get to see the best competition as it lasts for five days and every day, the challenge becomes different,” Harbhajan said on Friday during an event organised by the Legends Club to celebrate Sachin Tendulkar’s birthday.

“Obviously, a lot of things happen on the pitch and accordingly, the people need to change their mindset and adopt to those conditions and come out as a winner. If I was part of any committee in the ICC or the BCCI, I would tell them that to save Test cricket, we must make sure that we play on better pitches, where the game last for five days and does not get over inside three days,” he added.

Having represented India in 103 Tests and claimed 417 wickets, Harbhajan believes it is up to the game’s ambassadors to preserve its longest format.

Also read | The garden of rebirth: Eden Gardens 2001 through the eyes of a reporter and photographer

“If you look at the Ashes or some of the top Test series, it still attracts a lot of people to come over and watch the game. And we can do the same here in India,” Harbhajan said, adding: “Why are we finishing games in inside three days? We need to make sure we produce those kinds of pitches where everybody is in the game.”

Back in 2024, India lost a Test series at home against New Zealand, and last year, too, it ended up losing the Test series against South Africa on rank-turners. “I think we are losing those matches because of the pitches, not because of the skill. We need points to reach the final circle of the World Test Championship, and how do we get points? Because of that result-oriented approach, we assumed that the opposition wouldn’t know how to play spin, and in the end, dug our own hole,” Harbhajan said.

“It is not fault of the state associations that they produce such pitches, but they do so because that’s how the management wants them to be. The team management wants the match to be over in three days, and that’s why the skill is left out of the game.”

On Jaiswal, Sooryavanshi

Over the last couple of years, several young talents – including Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Ayush Mhatre – have made their presence felt in the IPL and T20s. And there have been talks that they should be fast-tracked to the national team. However, Harbhajan made it clear that they need to prove their mettle to be part of the Test squad.

“They will have to make a place for themselves and of course, create enough buzz that they are good enough to be in the squad for Test cricket. If there is someone who is batting the best among them all is – Yashasvi Jaiswal, and we are not even talking about him much,” Harbhajan said.

Lauding the young Jaiswal, Harbhajan added: “He has got the perfect mix of what is required in T20 and in Test cricket. He has got the mindset to leave the ball for a session and in the next session, he would start scoring runs. There are a very few with that sort of mindset and he has made a place for himself.

Also read | Laxman and Dravid changed the fate of Indian cricket: Sadagoppan Ramesh recalls 2001 miracle at Eden Gardens

“His story is also unbelievable; he has come through a lot of struggles and Mumbai Cricket Association gave him a chance and look at where he is now. He is hitting (Mitchell) Starc for a first-ball six.”

“Jaiswal, Sooryavanshi and even Ishan Kishan have the same mindset to hit the ball, but at the same time, you need to understand that when the ball moves and conditions differ, you have to have a game where you need to defend the ball,” Harbhajan said, adding: “They will eventually learn, even through failures.

“If a 15-year-old boy can hit the ball, he can also block. It is about the mindset, if you give him the chance he will adapt to that. But if you send him to England for a first tour where the ball will swing, it will not be a matter of intelligence. But if we want him to play Test cricket we will have to nurture him.”

‘The art of spin bowling has gone out of the window’

The seasoned tweaker also expressed his disappointment on spin bowling losing its sheen. “The art of spin bowling has gone out of the window. I rarely see people spinning the ball. Spinners are supposed to spin the ball and if you are not spinning the ball, you are making things easy for the batter,” Harbhajan said.

“Whether you are playing T20 or Test cricket, if you are able to spin the ball and if you can get something out of the pitch, that is where your class comes into the picture. Otherwise, anyone can roll over their arm…”

But he also insisted that those mastering the craft are still faring well. “Yuzvendra Chahal is doing it, no one can get hold of him. Yesterday (Thursday) Akeal (Hosein) and Noor (Ahmad) for Chennai Super Kings (in an IPL match against Mumbai Indians). I always talk about spinners having a big heart to bowl, we cannot bowl bouncers or yorkers and the only way we can get people out is by deceiving them in the air. And if they do not bowl slow (through the air), do not spin, how will a batter get out?” Harbhajan wondered.

Also read | It changed the perception of a cricket fan towards Test cricket: Venkatapathy Raju on 2001 Eden Gardens Test

“Wankhede is the place to bowl spin. The ball should make a half-a-moon shape through your hand and if it is not happening, then the ball will not bounce and that is what the batter is left wanting. People who are applying themselves, they are successful even in T20Is, but those who are not are only filling up the spots in Test cricket, they are just doing the job of containing and not taking wickets,” Harbhajan, who recently had sessions with the spinners at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, pointed.

Mumbai over Punjab

During a conversation with Ajinkya Naik, the president of the Mumbai Cricket Association, Harbhajan was asked whether he would want his son to play for Mumbai or for Punjab if he chose to pursue cricket.

Harbhajan replied with a smile: “Since he’s born and raised in Mumbai, I will send him to play for Mumbai if he ever decides to take the sport. I will never push him.”

Published on Apr 24, 2026

#Test #cricket #priority #Harbhajan #Singh #urges #BCCI #pitches #days

Sports news , , , ,

Harbhajan Singh has urged the ICC and the BCCI to ensure that Test cricket is played on pitches that last the full five days. Expressing his disappointment over the recent trend of matches ending within a couple of days, the former India off-spinner reiterated that Test cricket remains the ‘best’ format as it truly challenges players.

“I would make a strong recommendation that Test cricket should be the priority, because that is where you get the best cricket and the cricketers. In Test cricket, you get to see the best competition as it lasts for five days and every day, the challenge becomes different,” Harbhajan said on Friday during an event organised by the Legends Club to celebrate Sachin Tendulkar’s birthday.

“Obviously, a lot of things happen on the pitch and accordingly, the people need to change their mindset and adopt to those conditions and come out as a winner. If I was part of any committee in the ICC or the BCCI, I would tell them that to save Test cricket, we must make sure that we play on better pitches, where the game last for five days and does not get over inside three days,” he added.

Having represented India in 103 Tests and claimed 417 wickets, Harbhajan believes it is up to the game’s ambassadors to preserve its longest format.

Also read | The garden of rebirth: Eden Gardens 2001 through the eyes of a reporter and photographer

“If you look at the Ashes or some of the top Test series, it still attracts a lot of people to come over and watch the game. And we can do the same here in India,” Harbhajan said, adding: “Why are we finishing games in inside three days? We need to make sure we produce those kinds of pitches where everybody is in the game.”

Back in 2024, India lost a Test series at home against New Zealand, and last year, too, it ended up losing the Test series against South Africa on rank-turners. “I think we are losing those matches because of the pitches, not because of the skill. We need points to reach the final circle of the World Test Championship, and how do we get points? Because of that result-oriented approach, we assumed that the opposition wouldn’t know how to play spin, and in the end, dug our own hole,” Harbhajan said.

“It is not fault of the state associations that they produce such pitches, but they do so because that’s how the management wants them to be. The team management wants the match to be over in three days, and that’s why the skill is left out of the game.”

On Jaiswal, Sooryavanshi

Over the last couple of years, several young talents – including Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Ayush Mhatre – have made their presence felt in the IPL and T20s. And there have been talks that they should be fast-tracked to the national team. However, Harbhajan made it clear that they need to prove their mettle to be part of the Test squad.

“They will have to make a place for themselves and of course, create enough buzz that they are good enough to be in the squad for Test cricket. If there is someone who is batting the best among them all is – Yashasvi Jaiswal, and we are not even talking about him much,” Harbhajan said.

Lauding the young Jaiswal, Harbhajan added: “He has got the perfect mix of what is required in T20 and in Test cricket. He has got the mindset to leave the ball for a session and in the next session, he would start scoring runs. There are a very few with that sort of mindset and he has made a place for himself.

Also read | Laxman and Dravid changed the fate of Indian cricket: Sadagoppan Ramesh recalls 2001 miracle at Eden Gardens

“His story is also unbelievable; he has come through a lot of struggles and Mumbai Cricket Association gave him a chance and look at where he is now. He is hitting (Mitchell) Starc for a first-ball six.”

“Jaiswal, Sooryavanshi and even Ishan Kishan have the same mindset to hit the ball, but at the same time, you need to understand that when the ball moves and conditions differ, you have to have a game where you need to defend the ball,” Harbhajan said, adding: “They will eventually learn, even through failures.

“If a 15-year-old boy can hit the ball, he can also block. It is about the mindset, if you give him the chance he will adapt to that. But if you send him to England for a first tour where the ball will swing, it will not be a matter of intelligence. But if we want him to play Test cricket we will have to nurture him.”

‘The art of spin bowling has gone out of the window’

The seasoned tweaker also expressed his disappointment on spin bowling losing its sheen. “The art of spin bowling has gone out of the window. I rarely see people spinning the ball. Spinners are supposed to spin the ball and if you are not spinning the ball, you are making things easy for the batter,” Harbhajan said.

“Whether you are playing T20 or Test cricket, if you are able to spin the ball and if you can get something out of the pitch, that is where your class comes into the picture. Otherwise, anyone can roll over their arm…”

But he also insisted that those mastering the craft are still faring well. “Yuzvendra Chahal is doing it, no one can get hold of him. Yesterday (Thursday) Akeal (Hosein) and Noor (Ahmad) for Chennai Super Kings (in an IPL match against Mumbai Indians). I always talk about spinners having a big heart to bowl, we cannot bowl bouncers or yorkers and the only way we can get people out is by deceiving them in the air. And if they do not bowl slow (through the air), do not spin, how will a batter get out?” Harbhajan wondered.

Also read | It changed the perception of a cricket fan towards Test cricket: Venkatapathy Raju on 2001 Eden Gardens Test

“Wankhede is the place to bowl spin. The ball should make a half-a-moon shape through your hand and if it is not happening, then the ball will not bounce and that is what the batter is left wanting. People who are applying themselves, they are successful even in T20Is, but those who are not are only filling up the spots in Test cricket, they are just doing the job of containing and not taking wickets,” Harbhajan, who recently had sessions with the spinners at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, pointed.

Mumbai over Punjab

During a conversation with Ajinkya Naik, the president of the Mumbai Cricket Association, Harbhajan was asked whether he would want his son to play for Mumbai or for Punjab if he chose to pursue cricket.

Harbhajan replied with a smile: “Since he’s born and raised in Mumbai, I will send him to play for Mumbai if he ever decides to take the sport. I will never push him.”

Published on Apr 24, 2026

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Deadspin | Nelly Korda takes early lead at Chevron Championship <div id=""><section id="0" class=" w-full"><div class="xl:container mx-0 !px-4 py-0 pb-4 !mx-0 !px-0"><img src="https://images.deadspin.com/tr:w-900/28794022.jpg" srcset="https://images.deadspin.com/tr:w-900/28794022.jpg" alt="LPGA: The Chevron Championship - First Round" class="w-full" fetchpriority="high" loading="eager"/><span class="text-0.8 leading-tight">Apr 23, 2026; Houston, Texas, United States; Nelly Korda hits a tee shot on the 10th hole during the first round of The Chevron Championship golf tournament. Mandatory Credit: Erik Williams-Imagn Images<!-- --> <!-- --> </span></div></section><section id="section-1"> <p>World No. 2 Nelly Korda found another gear over the back half of her round to build a two-shot advantage after one round of play at the Chevron Championship, the first major of the women’s golf season, Thursday in Houston.</p> </section><section id="section-2"> <p>Korda pocketed two birdies over Nos. 10-18 to begin her round before heating up from there. Korda sank three straight birdies on Nos. 1-3, then added a pair on the seventh and eighth to finish her round 7-under-par 65.</p> </section><section id="section-3"> <p>The soggy Memorial Park Golf Course has endured significant rainfall this week. Korda got in some extra work in the rain earlier in the week and felt that contributed to her hot start.</p> </section><section id="section-4"> <p>“Tuesday I came out and putted in the rain when we were allowed to before the pro-am and also Wednesday,” Korda said. “It feels good to put a good round together.”</p> </section><section id="section-5"> <p>In four LPGA starts this season, Korda has won the season-opening Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions and followed that with three straight second-place finishes.</p> </section><section id="section-6"> <p>“I feel like I have a really great team around me,” said Korda, who’s searching for her third career major. “… So I think just there is a comfort and happiness inside me that makes me happy on the golf course, too.”</p> </section><section id="section-7"> <p>Tied for second at 5 under are Thailand’s Patty Tavatanakit and South Korea’s Somi Lee.</p> </section><br/><section id="section-8"> <p>Tavatanakit began her day with two birdies among her first three holes and never wavered, despite coming into the tournament with just one top-10 finish to her credit. That came last time out, when she finished in a tie for fifth at the JM Eagle LA Championship.</p> </section> <section id="section-9"> <p>She added birdies on Nos. 8, 15 and 17 in a bogey-free performance.</p> </section><section id="section-10"> <p>“I feel like that is the definition of golf a little bit, is like you’re not going always have it your way,” Tavatanakit said. “How you can kind of scramble around and put a round together matters more than how you actually are striping it or how actual, you know, your game is.”</p> </section><section id="section-11"> <p>Lee, a winner at the 2025 Dow Championship, carded six birdies and was in line for an even better finish before she suffered a bogey on her final hole of the day, the ninth.</p> </section><section id="section-12"> <p>“I remember like my first hole … the first birdie going in gave me — boosted me a lot of the confidence and that helped me a lot,” Lee said.</p> </section><section id="section-13"> <p>Amateur Farah O’Keefe is part of a group of four more golfers three shots back at 4 under. Like Lee, she suffered a bogey on the troublesome ninth to counterbalance her five-birdie day. She is tied with France’s Pauline Roussin-Bouchard, Japan’s Yuri Yoshida and China’s Yan Liu.</p> </section><section id="section-14"> <p>A whopping 10 players are tied for eighth at 3-under 69: Ryann O’Toole, Denmark’s Nanna Koerstz Madsen, France’s Nastasia Nadaud, Japan’s Sora Kamiya, England’s Mimi Rhodes, Linnea Strom and Maja Stark of Sweden and South Korea’s Yunseo Yang, Ina Yoon and Jin Hee Im. Yang is also an amateur and eagled her first hole of the championship.</p> </section><section id="section-15"> <p>Defending champion Mao Saigo of Japan struggled to a 1-over 73.</p> </section><br/><section id="section-16"> <p>–Field Level Media</p> </section> </div> #Deadspin #Nelly #Korda #takes #early #lead #Chevron #Championship

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Jamshedpur FC will look to return to winning ways at home after a 0-2 defeat to Kerala Blasters FC. The Men of Steel have shown defensive solidity, conceding just eight goals so far, but have struggled in attack, scoring only nine in as many matches.

Madih Talal is expected to return to the starting XI after coming off the bench in the previous match and will serve as the primary creative outlet, with Raphael Messi Bouli leading the line. In team news, head coach Owen Coyle confirmed that Albino Gomes will start in goal, while Stephen Eze is likely to be suspended, and Sourav Das will miss out due to injury.

Currently on 15 points, Jamshedpur FC can climb as high as second with a win, moving to 18, provided other results go its way.

Former coach of Chennaiyin FC, Owen Coyle, acknowledged his familiarity with the opposition while maintaining a results-driven approach. “It helps in understanding their players and strengths. They have very good players like Farukh Chaudhury, Irfan Yadwad and Daniel Chima Chukwu. But during the match, my only focus is to win for Jamshedpur. It will be good to see familiar faces, but both teams will be fully competitive,” he said.

Goalkeeper Albino Gomes reflected on the team’s mindset ahead of the fixture. “The pressure is there, but it is good pressure. Everyone is working hard in training, and we need to bring that effort into the match to get a positive result,” he said.

Chennaiyin FC, meanwhile, dropped crucial points after being held to a goalless draw by Mohammedan SC in its previous outing. With the Marina Machans yet to establish a consistent rhythm this season, head coach Clifford Miranda will be targeting a positive run of results, beginning with this fixture.

ALSO READ: Genius Sports pitches ISL roadmap to clubs; Mohun Bagan skips meeting

Despite possessing attacking options such as Irfan, Farukh and Daniel Chima Chukwu, goals have been scarce, with Chennaiyin FC scoring just six, the second-lowest tally in the league after Mohammedan SC’s four. Currently 10th with nine points, Chennaiyin FC can climb to eighth place with a win.

In Indian Super League head-to-head meetings, Chennaiyin FC holds a clear advantage over Jamshedpur FC, having won eight of their 16 encounters, while Jamshedpur FC has registered three victories, with five matches ending in draws. In terms of goals scored, Chennaiyin FC has netted 31 goals across these fixtures, compared to Jamshedpur FC’s 21.

Miranda delivered a candid assessment of recent performances and the challenge ahead. “In my opinion, the game against Inter Kashi was the worst game we have played this season. Until the 75th minute, we were not in our element, both in terms of attitude and in how we approached the match. We were slow with the ball, too predictable, and we could not match their energy. Tomorrow, we expect a similar kind of game, but against a much better opponent,” he said.

Published on Apr 24, 2026

#ISL #Jamshedpur #eyes #toptwo #push #Chennaiyin #seeks #important #points #avoid #relegation #battle">ISL 2025-26: Jamshedpur eyes top-two push as Chennaiyin seeks important points to avoid relegation battle Jamshedpur FC will look to return to winning ways at home after a 0-2 defeat to Kerala Blasters FC. The Men of Steel have shown defensive solidity, conceding just eight goals so far, but have struggled in attack, scoring only nine in as many matches.Madih Talal is expected to return to the starting XI after coming off the bench in the previous match and will serve as the primary creative outlet, with Raphael Messi Bouli leading the line. In team news, head coach Owen Coyle confirmed that Albino Gomes will start in goal, while Stephen Eze is likely to be suspended, and Sourav Das will miss out due to injury.Currently on 15 points, Jamshedpur FC can climb as high as second with a win, moving to 18, provided other results go its way.Former coach of Chennaiyin FC, Owen Coyle, acknowledged his familiarity with the opposition while maintaining a results-driven approach. “It helps in understanding their players and strengths. They have very good players like Farukh Chaudhury, Irfan Yadwad and Daniel Chima Chukwu. But during the match, my only focus is to win for Jamshedpur. It will be good to see familiar faces, but both teams will be fully competitive,” he said.Goalkeeper Albino Gomes reflected on the team’s mindset ahead of the fixture. “The pressure is there, but it is good pressure. Everyone is working hard in training, and we need to bring that effort into the match to get a positive result,” he said.Chennaiyin FC, meanwhile, dropped crucial points after being held to a goalless draw by Mohammedan SC in its previous outing. With the Marina Machans yet to establish a consistent rhythm this season, head coach Clifford Miranda will be targeting a positive run of results, beginning with this fixture.ALSO READ: Genius Sports pitches ISL roadmap to clubs; Mohun Bagan skips meetingDespite possessing attacking options such as Irfan, Farukh and Daniel Chima Chukwu, goals have been scarce, with Chennaiyin FC scoring just six, the second-lowest tally in the league after Mohammedan SC’s four. Currently 10th with nine points, Chennaiyin FC can climb to eighth place with a win.In Indian Super League head-to-head meetings, Chennaiyin FC holds a clear advantage over Jamshedpur FC, having won eight of their 16 encounters, while Jamshedpur FC has registered three victories, with five matches ending in draws. In terms of goals scored, Chennaiyin FC has netted 31 goals across these fixtures, compared to Jamshedpur FC’s 21.Miranda delivered a candid assessment of recent performances and the challenge ahead. “In my opinion, the game against Inter Kashi was the worst game we have played this season. Until the 75th minute, we were not in our element, both in terms of attitude and in how we approached the match. We were slow with the ball, too predictable, and we could not match their energy. Tomorrow, we expect a similar kind of game, but against a much better opponent,” he said.Published on Apr 24, 2026 #ISL #Jamshedpur #eyes #toptwo #push #Chennaiyin #seeks #important #points #avoid #relegation #battle

Genius Sports pitches ISL roadmap to clubs; Mohun Bagan skips meeting

Despite possessing attacking options such as Irfan, Farukh and Daniel Chima Chukwu, goals have been scarce, with Chennaiyin FC scoring just six, the second-lowest tally in the league after Mohammedan SC’s four. Currently 10th with nine points, Chennaiyin FC can climb to eighth place with a win.

In Indian Super League head-to-head meetings, Chennaiyin FC holds a clear advantage over Jamshedpur FC, having won eight of their 16 encounters, while Jamshedpur FC has registered three victories, with five matches ending in draws. In terms of goals scored, Chennaiyin FC has netted 31 goals across these fixtures, compared to Jamshedpur FC’s 21.

Miranda delivered a candid assessment of recent performances and the challenge ahead. “In my opinion, the game against Inter Kashi was the worst game we have played this season. Until the 75th minute, we were not in our element, both in terms of attitude and in how we approached the match. We were slow with the ball, too predictable, and we could not match their energy. Tomorrow, we expect a similar kind of game, but against a much better opponent,” he said.

Published on Apr 24, 2026

#ISL #Jamshedpur #eyes #toptwo #push #Chennaiyin #seeks #important #points #avoid #relegation #battle">ISL 2025-26: Jamshedpur eyes top-two push as Chennaiyin seeks important points to avoid relegation battle

Jamshedpur FC will look to return to winning ways at home after a 0-2 defeat to Kerala Blasters FC. The Men of Steel have shown defensive solidity, conceding just eight goals so far, but have struggled in attack, scoring only nine in as many matches.

Madih Talal is expected to return to the starting XI after coming off the bench in the previous match and will serve as the primary creative outlet, with Raphael Messi Bouli leading the line. In team news, head coach Owen Coyle confirmed that Albino Gomes will start in goal, while Stephen Eze is likely to be suspended, and Sourav Das will miss out due to injury.

Currently on 15 points, Jamshedpur FC can climb as high as second with a win, moving to 18, provided other results go its way.

Former coach of Chennaiyin FC, Owen Coyle, acknowledged his familiarity with the opposition while maintaining a results-driven approach. “It helps in understanding their players and strengths. They have very good players like Farukh Chaudhury, Irfan Yadwad and Daniel Chima Chukwu. But during the match, my only focus is to win for Jamshedpur. It will be good to see familiar faces, but both teams will be fully competitive,” he said.

Goalkeeper Albino Gomes reflected on the team’s mindset ahead of the fixture. “The pressure is there, but it is good pressure. Everyone is working hard in training, and we need to bring that effort into the match to get a positive result,” he said.

Chennaiyin FC, meanwhile, dropped crucial points after being held to a goalless draw by Mohammedan SC in its previous outing. With the Marina Machans yet to establish a consistent rhythm this season, head coach Clifford Miranda will be targeting a positive run of results, beginning with this fixture.

ALSO READ: Genius Sports pitches ISL roadmap to clubs; Mohun Bagan skips meeting

Despite possessing attacking options such as Irfan, Farukh and Daniel Chima Chukwu, goals have been scarce, with Chennaiyin FC scoring just six, the second-lowest tally in the league after Mohammedan SC’s four. Currently 10th with nine points, Chennaiyin FC can climb to eighth place with a win.

In Indian Super League head-to-head meetings, Chennaiyin FC holds a clear advantage over Jamshedpur FC, having won eight of their 16 encounters, while Jamshedpur FC has registered three victories, with five matches ending in draws. In terms of goals scored, Chennaiyin FC has netted 31 goals across these fixtures, compared to Jamshedpur FC’s 21.

Miranda delivered a candid assessment of recent performances and the challenge ahead. “In my opinion, the game against Inter Kashi was the worst game we have played this season. Until the 75th minute, we were not in our element, both in terms of attitude and in how we approached the match. We were slow with the ball, too predictable, and we could not match their energy. Tomorrow, we expect a similar kind of game, but against a much better opponent,” he said.

Published on Apr 24, 2026

#ISL #Jamshedpur #eyes #toptwo #push #Chennaiyin #seeks #important #points #avoid #relegation #battle
Deadspin | MLB roundup: Dodgers blank Giants on 1 hit to avoid series sweep Apr 23, 2026; San Francisco, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers third baseman Max Muncy (13) celebrates with first baseman Freddie Freeman (5) after the game against the San Francisco Giants at Oracle Park. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-Imagn Images Tyler Glasnow allowed just one hit in eight shutout innings, Tanner Scott threw a scoreless ninth and the Los Angeles Dodgers avoided a three-game series sweep with a 3-0 victory over the host San Francisco Giants. Max Muncy scored twice, while Dalton Rushing and Hyeseong Kim drove in runs for the Dodgers. Los Angeles scored a single run in the second inning and added two more in the fourth. Glasnow (3-0) struck out nine before handing the ball to Scott after throwing 105 pitches. Scott picked up his first save of the season. Kim and Kyle Tucker had two hits apiece for the Dodgers, with Muncy and Tucker recording doubles. The Giants’ only hit off the right-hander was delivered by Luis Arraez leading off the fourth inning. Logan Webb (2-3) worked seven innings, allowing three runs and seven hits. Cubs 8, Phillies 7 (10 innings) Dansby Swanson laced a walk-off single in the 10th inning to give Chicago its ninth straight win and hand visiting Philadelphia its ninth loss in a row. Seiya Suzuki put the Cubs ahead 7-6 in the bottom of the eighth with his third home run in as many games. Phillies pinch hitter Adolis Garcia answered with a homer in the top of the ninth. In the bottom of the 10th, Tanner Banks (0-2) intentionally walked Suzuki and allowed Carson Kelly’s single to load the bases. After Michael Busch struck out, Swanson’s single to right ended it. Busch homered and drove in four, while Suzuki went deep and joined Kelly in producing three hits apiece. Chicago tallied 18 hits in the win. Brandon Marsh went 3-for-4 with two homers for the Phillies. Mets 10, Twins 8 Bo Bichette had three hits, including the three-run eighth-inning double that snapped a tie and lifted host New York to a win over Minnesota in the rubber game of a three-game interleague series. Brett Baty hit a three-run homer in the first for the Mets, who squandered a 7-2 lead before winning for the second straight night following a 12-game skid. New York scored three times in the second before Carson Benge homered in the fourth. Ryan Jeffers tied the game with a grand slam in the top of the eighth for the Twins, who have lost six of seven. Tristan Gray homered in the sixth and had an RBI single in the ninth. Braves 7, Nationals 2 JR Ritchie threw seven strong innings in his major league debut and Ozzie Albies collected three hits and four RBIs, fueling visiting Atlanta over Washington. James Wood hit Ritchie’s first pitch for a home run. But Ritchie (1-0) only allowed two runs on five hits and struck out seven batters. Albies belted his fifth homer of the season in the ninth inning. Michael Harris II went 3-for-4 and plated two runs. Cionel Perez (1-3) yielded three runs on one hit and two walks in one-third of an inning as the Braves untied the game with a four-run seventh. CJ Abrams belted a solo homer for Washington’s other run and starter Cade Cavalli struck out a career-high 10 batters. Tigers 5, Brewers 4 Spencer Torkelson blasted a solo homer with one out in the ninth to give host Detroit a victory over Milwaukee. Torkelson, who hit his first homer of the season on Wednesday, ripped a 3-1 sinker from Abner Uribe (1-1) over the left field wall as the Tigers took two of three games in the series. Riley Greene had a two-run homer and pinch-hitter Jahmai Jones supplied a tying solo homer in the eighth. Blake Perkins drove in two runs for the Brewers. Gary Sanchez had two hits, a run and an RBI while David Hamilton added two hits and an RBI. Padres 10, Rockies 8 Gavin Sheets’ three-run homer in the top of the ninth inning capped a five-run rally enabling San Diego to outslug host Colorado. Sheets’ third homer of the year slapped a blown save on Victor Vodnik (0-2), who allowed five earned runs in 2/3 of an inning. Ron Marinaccio (1-0) picked up his first MLB win in two years by pitching two innings in relief. Wasted in the loss for the Rockies was Mickey Moniak’s second two-homer game of the year against San Diego. Moniak went 4-for-5 with three runs and two RBIs to lead a 14-hit attack. White Sox 4, Diamondbacks 1 Andrew Benintendi hit a three-run homer with one out in the ninth to lift Chicago over Arizona in Phoenix. Chase Meidroth walked off Paul Sewald (0-3) to open the ninth and took second on a sacrifice bunt before pinch-hitter Edgar Quero walked, bringing up Benintendi. His 410-foot homer landed near the pool area in right-center. The White Sox had eight homers while winning two of three in the series and have 15 homers in the last five games. Grant Taylor (1-0) gave up two hits and struck out three after relieving Davis Martin with one out in the seventh for Arizona. Yankees 4, Red Sox 2 Cody Bellinger drove in two runs with a pinch-hit single to help New York extend its winning streak to six games by beating Boston. Cam Schlittler (3-1) held Boston to two runs on four hits in eight innings to earn the win. David Bednar pitched a clean ninth to collect his seventh save. Bellinger singled with two outs and the bases loaded in the top of the seventh inning to put the Yankees in front 3-2. Aaron Judge followed with an RBI single that scored Jose Caballero to give New York a 4-2 lead. Rangers 6, Pirates 1 Evan Carter hit an inside-the-park home run and Jacob deGrom threw a gem as Texas beat Pittsburgh in the rubber match of a three-game set in Arlington, Texas. deGrom (2-0) had a season-high 10 strikeouts in 5 2/3 innings, allowing just one run. Corey Seager’s three-run shot off Pirates starter Bubba Chandler (1-2) broke the game open, doubling the Rangers’ 3-0 advantage with one swing. Chandler exited after the fourth, giving up six runs and seven hits for the Pirates. Oneil Cruz hit a two-out solo shot to snap deGrom’s shutout. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #MLB #roundup #Dodgers #blank #Giants #hit #avoid #series #sweepApr 23, 2026; San Francisco, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers third baseman Max Muncy (13) celebrates with first baseman Freddie Freeman (5) after the game against the San Francisco Giants at Oracle Park. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-Imagn Images

Tyler Glasnow allowed just one hit in eight shutout innings, Tanner Scott threw a scoreless ninth and the Los Angeles Dodgers avoided a three-game series sweep with a 3-0 victory over the host San Francisco Giants.

Max Muncy scored twice, while Dalton Rushing and Hyeseong Kim drove in runs for the Dodgers. Los Angeles scored a single run in the second inning and added two more in the fourth.

Glasnow (3-0) struck out nine before handing the ball to Scott after throwing 105 pitches. Scott picked up his first save of the season. Kim and Kyle Tucker had two hits apiece for the Dodgers, with Muncy and Tucker recording doubles.

The Giants’ only hit off the right-hander was delivered by Luis Arraez leading off the fourth inning. Logan Webb (2-3) worked seven innings, allowing three runs and seven hits.

Cubs 8, Phillies 7 (10 innings)

Dansby Swanson laced a walk-off single in the 10th inning to give Chicago its ninth straight win and hand visiting Philadelphia its ninth loss in a row.

Seiya Suzuki put the Cubs ahead 7-6 in the bottom of the eighth with his third home run in as many games. Phillies pinch hitter Adolis Garcia answered with a homer in the top of the ninth. In the bottom of the 10th, Tanner Banks (0-2) intentionally walked Suzuki and allowed Carson Kelly’s single to load the bases. After Michael Busch struck out, Swanson’s single to right ended it.

Busch homered and drove in four, while Suzuki went deep and joined Kelly in producing three hits apiece. Chicago tallied 18 hits in the win. Brandon Marsh went 3-for-4 with two homers for the Phillies.

Mets 10, Twins 8

Bo Bichette had three hits, including the three-run eighth-inning double that snapped a tie and lifted host New York to a win over Minnesota in the rubber game of a three-game interleague series.

Brett Baty hit a three-run homer in the first for the Mets, who squandered a 7-2 lead before winning for the second straight night following a 12-game skid. New York scored three times in the second before Carson Benge homered in the fourth.

Ryan Jeffers tied the game with a grand slam in the top of the eighth for the Twins, who have lost six of seven. Tristan Gray homered in the sixth and had an RBI single in the ninth.

Braves 7, Nationals 2

JR Ritchie threw seven strong innings in his major league debut and Ozzie Albies collected three hits and four RBIs, fueling visiting Atlanta over Washington.

James Wood hit Ritchie’s first pitch for a home run. But Ritchie (1-0) only allowed two runs on five hits and struck out seven batters. Albies belted his fifth homer of the season in the ninth inning. Michael Harris II went 3-for-4 and plated two runs.

Cionel Perez (1-3) yielded three runs on one hit and two walks in one-third of an inning as the Braves untied the game with a four-run seventh. CJ Abrams belted a solo homer for Washington’s other run and starter Cade Cavalli struck out a career-high 10 batters.

Tigers 5, Brewers 4

Spencer Torkelson blasted a solo homer with one out in the ninth to give host Detroit a victory over Milwaukee.


Torkelson, who hit his first homer of the season on Wednesday, ripped a 3-1 sinker from Abner Uribe (1-1) over the left field wall as the Tigers took two of three games in the series. Riley Greene had a two-run homer and pinch-hitter Jahmai Jones supplied a tying solo homer in the eighth.

Blake Perkins drove in two runs for the Brewers. Gary Sanchez had two hits, a run and an RBI while David Hamilton added two hits and an RBI.

Padres 10, Rockies 8

Gavin Sheets’ three-run homer in the top of the ninth inning capped a five-run rally enabling San Diego to outslug host Colorado.

Sheets’ third homer of the year slapped a blown save on Victor Vodnik (0-2), who allowed five earned runs in 2/3 of an inning. Ron Marinaccio (1-0) picked up his first MLB win in two years by pitching two innings in relief.

Wasted in the loss for the Rockies was Mickey Moniak’s second two-homer game of the year against San Diego. Moniak went 4-for-5 with three runs and two RBIs to lead a 14-hit attack.

White Sox 4, Diamondbacks 1

Andrew Benintendi hit a three-run homer with one out in the ninth to lift Chicago over Arizona in Phoenix.

Chase Meidroth walked off Paul Sewald (0-3) to open the ninth and took second on a sacrifice bunt before pinch-hitter Edgar Quero walked, bringing up Benintendi. His 410-foot homer landed near the pool area in right-center.

The White Sox had eight homers while winning two of three in the series and have 15 homers in the last five games. Grant Taylor (1-0) gave up two hits and struck out three after relieving Davis Martin with one out in the seventh for Arizona.

Yankees 4, Red Sox 2

Cody Bellinger drove in two runs with a pinch-hit single to help New York extend its winning streak to six games by beating Boston.

Cam Schlittler (3-1) held Boston to two runs on four hits in eight innings to earn the win. David Bednar pitched a clean ninth to collect his seventh save.

Bellinger singled with two outs and the bases loaded in the top of the seventh inning to put the Yankees in front 3-2. Aaron Judge followed with an RBI single that scored Jose Caballero to give New York a 4-2 lead.

Rangers 6, Pirates 1

Evan Carter hit an inside-the-park home run and Jacob deGrom threw a gem as Texas beat Pittsburgh in the rubber match of a three-game set in Arlington, Texas.

deGrom (2-0) had a season-high 10 strikeouts in 5 2/3 innings, allowing just one run. Corey Seager’s three-run shot off Pirates starter Bubba Chandler (1-2) broke the game open, doubling the Rangers’ 3-0 advantage with one swing.

Chandler exited after the fourth, giving up six runs and seven hits for the Pirates. Oneil Cruz hit a two-out solo shot to snap deGrom’s shutout.

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #MLB #roundup #Dodgers #blank #Giants #hit #avoid #series #sweep">Deadspin | MLB roundup: Dodgers blank Giants on 1 hit to avoid series sweep Apr 23, 2026; San Francisco, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers third baseman Max Muncy (13) celebrates with first baseman Freddie Freeman (5) after the game against the San Francisco Giants at Oracle Park. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-Imagn Images Tyler Glasnow allowed just one hit in eight shutout innings, Tanner Scott threw a scoreless ninth and the Los Angeles Dodgers avoided a three-game series sweep with a 3-0 victory over the host San Francisco Giants. Max Muncy scored twice, while Dalton Rushing and Hyeseong Kim drove in runs for the Dodgers. Los Angeles scored a single run in the second inning and added two more in the fourth. Glasnow (3-0) struck out nine before handing the ball to Scott after throwing 105 pitches. Scott picked up his first save of the season. Kim and Kyle Tucker had two hits apiece for the Dodgers, with Muncy and Tucker recording doubles. The Giants’ only hit off the right-hander was delivered by Luis Arraez leading off the fourth inning. Logan Webb (2-3) worked seven innings, allowing three runs and seven hits. Cubs 8, Phillies 7 (10 innings) Dansby Swanson laced a walk-off single in the 10th inning to give Chicago its ninth straight win and hand visiting Philadelphia its ninth loss in a row. Seiya Suzuki put the Cubs ahead 7-6 in the bottom of the eighth with his third home run in as many games. Phillies pinch hitter Adolis Garcia answered with a homer in the top of the ninth. In the bottom of the 10th, Tanner Banks (0-2) intentionally walked Suzuki and allowed Carson Kelly’s single to load the bases. After Michael Busch struck out, Swanson’s single to right ended it. Busch homered and drove in four, while Suzuki went deep and joined Kelly in producing three hits apiece. Chicago tallied 18 hits in the win. Brandon Marsh went 3-for-4 with two homers for the Phillies. Mets 10, Twins 8 Bo Bichette had three hits, including the three-run eighth-inning double that snapped a tie and lifted host New York to a win over Minnesota in the rubber game of a three-game interleague series. Brett Baty hit a three-run homer in the first for the Mets, who squandered a 7-2 lead before winning for the second straight night following a 12-game skid. New York scored three times in the second before Carson Benge homered in the fourth. Ryan Jeffers tied the game with a grand slam in the top of the eighth for the Twins, who have lost six of seven. Tristan Gray homered in the sixth and had an RBI single in the ninth. Braves 7, Nationals 2 JR Ritchie threw seven strong innings in his major league debut and Ozzie Albies collected three hits and four RBIs, fueling visiting Atlanta over Washington. James Wood hit Ritchie’s first pitch for a home run. But Ritchie (1-0) only allowed two runs on five hits and struck out seven batters. Albies belted his fifth homer of the season in the ninth inning. Michael Harris II went 3-for-4 and plated two runs. Cionel Perez (1-3) yielded three runs on one hit and two walks in one-third of an inning as the Braves untied the game with a four-run seventh. CJ Abrams belted a solo homer for Washington’s other run and starter Cade Cavalli struck out a career-high 10 batters. Tigers 5, Brewers 4 Spencer Torkelson blasted a solo homer with one out in the ninth to give host Detroit a victory over Milwaukee. Torkelson, who hit his first homer of the season on Wednesday, ripped a 3-1 sinker from Abner Uribe (1-1) over the left field wall as the Tigers took two of three games in the series. Riley Greene had a two-run homer and pinch-hitter Jahmai Jones supplied a tying solo homer in the eighth. Blake Perkins drove in two runs for the Brewers. Gary Sanchez had two hits, a run and an RBI while David Hamilton added two hits and an RBI. Padres 10, Rockies 8 Gavin Sheets’ three-run homer in the top of the ninth inning capped a five-run rally enabling San Diego to outslug host Colorado. Sheets’ third homer of the year slapped a blown save on Victor Vodnik (0-2), who allowed five earned runs in 2/3 of an inning. Ron Marinaccio (1-0) picked up his first MLB win in two years by pitching two innings in relief. Wasted in the loss for the Rockies was Mickey Moniak’s second two-homer game of the year against San Diego. Moniak went 4-for-5 with three runs and two RBIs to lead a 14-hit attack. White Sox 4, Diamondbacks 1 Andrew Benintendi hit a three-run homer with one out in the ninth to lift Chicago over Arizona in Phoenix. Chase Meidroth walked off Paul Sewald (0-3) to open the ninth and took second on a sacrifice bunt before pinch-hitter Edgar Quero walked, bringing up Benintendi. His 410-foot homer landed near the pool area in right-center. The White Sox had eight homers while winning two of three in the series and have 15 homers in the last five games. Grant Taylor (1-0) gave up two hits and struck out three after relieving Davis Martin with one out in the seventh for Arizona. Yankees 4, Red Sox 2 Cody Bellinger drove in two runs with a pinch-hit single to help New York extend its winning streak to six games by beating Boston. Cam Schlittler (3-1) held Boston to two runs on four hits in eight innings to earn the win. David Bednar pitched a clean ninth to collect his seventh save. Bellinger singled with two outs and the bases loaded in the top of the seventh inning to put the Yankees in front 3-2. Aaron Judge followed with an RBI single that scored Jose Caballero to give New York a 4-2 lead. Rangers 6, Pirates 1 Evan Carter hit an inside-the-park home run and Jacob deGrom threw a gem as Texas beat Pittsburgh in the rubber match of a three-game set in Arlington, Texas. deGrom (2-0) had a season-high 10 strikeouts in 5 2/3 innings, allowing just one run. Corey Seager’s three-run shot off Pirates starter Bubba Chandler (1-2) broke the game open, doubling the Rangers’ 3-0 advantage with one swing. Chandler exited after the fourth, giving up six runs and seven hits for the Pirates. Oneil Cruz hit a two-out solo shot to snap deGrom’s shutout. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #MLB #roundup #Dodgers #blank #Giants #hit #avoid #series #sweep

Indian women’s team head coach Amol Muzumdar has backed veteran all-rounder Deepti Sharma to come good but admitted that her prolonged lean patch in national colours is a bit of a “concern”.

Indian team under Harmanpreet Kaur has already lost the five-match WT20I series against South Africa after losing three games on trot but what has been a concern is Deepti’s poor returns with the ball as she has remained wicketless so far.

In the third WT20I match where Proteas Women chased down 192 with just a wicket down, Laura Wolvaardt and Sune Luus took Deepti to the cleaners taking 46 runs from her 3.3 overs.

In fact Deepti’s contribution for India in last 10 games, across formats, is a meagre 51 runs seven wickets.

ALSO READ | India’s two-year unbeaten streak ends as Wolvaardt-led South Africa clinches series 3-0

“Look, I don’t want to beat around the bush, I just want to say that yeah, it’s a bit of a concern as far as Deepti is concerned,” Muzumdar said ahead of the fourth game of the series on Saturday.

But at the same time, Muzumdar is confident that Deepti has talent and skill to make a superb comeback.

“For all champion players are, form is, you know, temporary, class is permanent, it’s a cliche, but it applies to all the players, and she’s a class player, there’s no doubt about it, we have seen it in the World Cup, in bigger tournaments, in pressure situations, she has stood up for India,” Muzumdar came to her defence.

“I think it’s just a matter of time when she hits a form, and I and the entire country would be hoping it starts from tomorrow. She’s been a marquee player for a long time, and she has shouldered that responsibility in the middle-order, I mean, she’s one of the pillars of Indian women’s cricket at the moment,” he added.

With not much time left for the T20 World Cup which will be held in England in June, Muzumdar wants the bowling unit to give a far better account of itself, especially during PowerPlay overs as the returns have been minimal in this series. “If you look at the series from the Indian perspective, I think our main concern would be wickets in the Powerplay. We have had a real good chat about it.

“That’s one of the concerns of this tour that has propped up, but I’m sure we are, the bowlers and everyone is capable enough to come up with goods, you know, in the future games,” said the head coach.

Published on Apr 24, 2026

#Deeptis #form #concern #bounce #India #coach #Muzumdar">Deepti’s form is a concern but she will bounce back: India head coach Muzumdar Indian women’s team head coach Amol Muzumdar has backed veteran all-rounder Deepti Sharma to come good but admitted that her prolonged lean patch in national colours is a bit of a “concern”.Indian team under Harmanpreet Kaur has already lost the five-match WT20I series against South Africa after losing three games on trot but what has been a concern is Deepti’s poor returns with the ball as she has remained wicketless so far.In the third WT20I match where Proteas Women chased down 192 with just a wicket down, Laura Wolvaardt and Sune Luus took Deepti to the cleaners taking 46 runs from her 3.3 overs.In fact Deepti’s contribution for India in last 10 games, across formats, is a meagre 51 runs seven wickets.ALSO READ | India’s two-year unbeaten streak ends as Wolvaardt-led South Africa clinches series 3-0“Look, I don’t want to beat around the bush, I just want to say that yeah, it’s a bit of a concern as far as Deepti is concerned,” Muzumdar said ahead of the fourth game of the series on Saturday.But at the same time, Muzumdar is confident that Deepti has talent and skill to make a superb comeback.“For all champion players are, form is, you know, temporary, class is permanent, it’s a cliche, but it applies to all the players, and she’s a class player, there’s no doubt about it, we have seen it in the World Cup, in bigger tournaments, in pressure situations, she has stood up for India,” Muzumdar came to her defence.“I think it’s just a matter of time when she hits a form, and I and the entire country would be hoping it starts from tomorrow. She’s been a marquee player for a long time, and she has shouldered that responsibility in the middle-order, I mean, she’s one of the pillars of Indian women’s cricket at the moment,” he added.With not much time left for the T20 World Cup which will be held in England in June, Muzumdar wants the bowling unit to give a far better account of itself, especially during PowerPlay overs as the returns have been minimal in this series. “If you look at the series from the Indian perspective, I think our main concern would be wickets in the Powerplay. We have had a real good chat about it.“That’s one of the concerns of this tour that has propped up, but I’m sure we are, the bowlers and everyone is capable enough to come up with goods, you know, in the future games,” said the head coach.Published on Apr 24, 2026 #Deeptis #form #concern #bounce #India #coach #Muzumdar

India’s two-year unbeaten streak ends as Wolvaardt-led South Africa clinches series 3-0

“Look, I don’t want to beat around the bush, I just want to say that yeah, it’s a bit of a concern as far as Deepti is concerned,” Muzumdar said ahead of the fourth game of the series on Saturday.

But at the same time, Muzumdar is confident that Deepti has talent and skill to make a superb comeback.

“For all champion players are, form is, you know, temporary, class is permanent, it’s a cliche, but it applies to all the players, and she’s a class player, there’s no doubt about it, we have seen it in the World Cup, in bigger tournaments, in pressure situations, she has stood up for India,” Muzumdar came to her defence.

“I think it’s just a matter of time when she hits a form, and I and the entire country would be hoping it starts from tomorrow. She’s been a marquee player for a long time, and she has shouldered that responsibility in the middle-order, I mean, she’s one of the pillars of Indian women’s cricket at the moment,” he added.

With not much time left for the T20 World Cup which will be held in England in June, Muzumdar wants the bowling unit to give a far better account of itself, especially during PowerPlay overs as the returns have been minimal in this series. “If you look at the series from the Indian perspective, I think our main concern would be wickets in the Powerplay. We have had a real good chat about it.

“That’s one of the concerns of this tour that has propped up, but I’m sure we are, the bowlers and everyone is capable enough to come up with goods, you know, in the future games,” said the head coach.

Published on Apr 24, 2026

#Deeptis #form #concern #bounce #India #coach #Muzumdar">Deepti’s form is a concern but she will bounce back: India head coach Muzumdar

Indian women’s team head coach Amol Muzumdar has backed veteran all-rounder Deepti Sharma to come good but admitted that her prolonged lean patch in national colours is a bit of a “concern”.

Indian team under Harmanpreet Kaur has already lost the five-match WT20I series against South Africa after losing three games on trot but what has been a concern is Deepti’s poor returns with the ball as she has remained wicketless so far.

In the third WT20I match where Proteas Women chased down 192 with just a wicket down, Laura Wolvaardt and Sune Luus took Deepti to the cleaners taking 46 runs from her 3.3 overs.

In fact Deepti’s contribution for India in last 10 games, across formats, is a meagre 51 runs seven wickets.

ALSO READ | India’s two-year unbeaten streak ends as Wolvaardt-led South Africa clinches series 3-0

“Look, I don’t want to beat around the bush, I just want to say that yeah, it’s a bit of a concern as far as Deepti is concerned,” Muzumdar said ahead of the fourth game of the series on Saturday.

But at the same time, Muzumdar is confident that Deepti has talent and skill to make a superb comeback.

“For all champion players are, form is, you know, temporary, class is permanent, it’s a cliche, but it applies to all the players, and she’s a class player, there’s no doubt about it, we have seen it in the World Cup, in bigger tournaments, in pressure situations, she has stood up for India,” Muzumdar came to her defence.

“I think it’s just a matter of time when she hits a form, and I and the entire country would be hoping it starts from tomorrow. She’s been a marquee player for a long time, and she has shouldered that responsibility in the middle-order, I mean, she’s one of the pillars of Indian women’s cricket at the moment,” he added.

With not much time left for the T20 World Cup which will be held in England in June, Muzumdar wants the bowling unit to give a far better account of itself, especially during PowerPlay overs as the returns have been minimal in this series. “If you look at the series from the Indian perspective, I think our main concern would be wickets in the Powerplay. We have had a real good chat about it.

“That’s one of the concerns of this tour that has propped up, but I’m sure we are, the bowlers and everyone is capable enough to come up with goods, you know, in the future games,” said the head coach.

Published on Apr 24, 2026

#Deeptis #form #concern #bounce #India #coach #Muzumdar

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