Kerala Blasters vs NorthEast United — Ashley Westwood hopes to continue pulling KBFC out of crisis Ashley Westwood is no stranger to Indian football.He guided Bengaluru FC to the then top-flight title in his and the club’s first season in Indian professional football and won three trophies with the club, becoming a legend among its faithful.Last month, the former Manchester United academy graduate returned to coaching duties in Indian football after four years, taking charge of Kerala Blasters in the Indian Super League (ISL).“I was here from the start of the ISL when it was only a six-week league… and now it has developed into an eight to 10-month league. So, I’ve seen it all. It has had a tough time this last year. But like anything, it’s a work in progress, a process,” Westwood tells Sportstar in an exclusive interview. Ashley Westwood’s success at Bengaluru FC wasn’t just about results, but two I-League titles and a Federation Cup gave it weight and permanence. | Photo Credit: K. MURALI KUMAR Ashley Westwood’s success at Bengaluru FC wasn’t just about results, but two I-League titles and a Federation Cup gave it weight and permanence. | Photo Credit: K. MURALI KUMAR Ashley Westwood’s record in Indian football: Teams managed: Bengaluru FC, ATK, Punjab FC, Kerala Blasters Total matches: 89 Wins: 46 Losses: 26 Draws: 17 Trophies: I-League x2 (2013-14, 2015-2016), Federation Cup (2014-15) But unlike Bengaluru, he finds himself in a precarious position at Kerala Blasters.The three-time ISL finalist has struggled for form this season, and with no wins in six matches, the Blasters parted ways with head coach David Catala, while their fan club, the Manjappada, boycotted matches citing mismanagement.“Football is challenging anyway. Sometimes you get fortunate, and you go into a club mid-season because a coach has done well, and you take over a team at the top of the league, but that’s very rare,” Westwood says.“Normally, if you go into a club halfway through a season, it’s because they’re not doing very well, because a manager has lost his job. Of course, with Bengaluru, it was a brand-new club. So, any challenge is good.”Westwood opened his Blasters stint on a forgettable note, losing 0-2 to the newly formed Sporting Club Delhi. However, he found the perfect opportunity to respond against Bengaluru FC in the match that followed, which the Blasters won for their first victory of the season.“I enjoy challenges. There’s lots of improvement to come, hopefully, and maybe we can do that. I’ve done it before in all the roles I’ve been in. So, I’m hoping to do the same again. Let’s see if we can keep improving things,” he says.The Achilles heel of the Blue Tigers? Team Hong Kong head coach Ashley Westwood (R) talks to Matthew Elliot Wing Kai Orr of Hong Kong (L) during the Asian Cup qualifier Group C match at Kai Tak Stadium on November 18, 2025, in Hong Kong, China. | Photo Credit: Getty Images Team Hong Kong head coach Ashley Westwood (R) talks to Matthew Elliot Wing Kai Orr of Hong Kong (L) during the Asian Cup qualifier Group C match at Kai Tak Stadium on November 18, 2025, in Hong Kong, China. | Photo Credit: Getty Images There’s another side to Westwood beyond domestic football. He has managed two Asian sides, Afghanistan and Hong Kong. Both pulled off significant upsets against India.In 2024, India lost to Afghanistan on home soil for the second time ever, which turned out to be one of the last matches under coach Igor Stimac. A year later, Hong Kong beat India in an AFC Asian Cup qualifier. Manolo Marquez, who had stepped into Stimac’s shoes, parted ways shortly after.So, is the Englishman a nemesis for India’s coaches?“No, it’s certainly not a personal thing. Coincidence happens in football. With me, I try to win every game, whoever it is,” Westwood says.“Predominantly, my record shows that I do win quite a few games, and unfortunately, a few of them have been against India. I don’t look at it as a scalp; I look at it as a game of football, and one that we won.”It was no surprise that Westwood was among the names circulating in Indian football circles as a potential coach of the Blue Tigers, first after Stimac and then after Marquez.“It’s (the question has) come around a lot of times. I’ve been close a lot of times. It hasn’t happened. I won’t comment on that particular job where they have a manager, of course,” he says. “But regardless of the job, I’ll concentrate on what I need to do, which is improve Kerala Blasters.”Winds of change at Kerala BlastersThere have been signs of optimism in the Blasters camp since his arrival. They have signed former Real Madrid Castilla winger Franchu, who scored the winner on his ISL debut against Bengaluru FC.“Hopefully, this carries on. It’s simple: you give everything in a relationship and, normally, you get it back. Football has a unique way of taking care of you if you take care of your work rate. That’s all we’re trying to do,” Westwood says.But the tactician will know that slip-ups could cost the team heavily, especially in a truncated season where each team plays each other just once. Kerala Blasters’ remaining matches: Kerala Blasters vs NorthEast United — April 15 Kerala Blasters vs Jamshedpur FC — April 18 Kerala Blasters vs Odisha FC — April 23 Kerala Blasters vs Mohammedan Sporting — May 10 Kerala Blasters vs FC Goa — May 23 Despite the win, the Blasters remain second from bottom, and losses from here, especially against bottom-placed Mohammedan Sporting, could see the club struggle to stay afloat in the top flight this season.“We won’t be in a relegation dogfight. That’s my belief, not an expectation. I’m confident in myself. . . There’s definitely an area for us to improve and get some wins. So, I’m not concerned about where they were. I’m just trying to look at where we might finish,” he says.Bengaluru FC earned a place in Indian football discussions in its maiden season under Westwood. The Blasters, who had slipped out of that discourse with underwhelming results, will look to tread a similar path under the same man in the dugout.Published on Apr 14, 2026 #Kerala #Blasters #NorthEast #United #Ashley #Westwood #hopes #continue #pulling #KBFC #crisis

Kerala Blasters vs NorthEast United — Ashley Westwood hopes to continue pulling KBFC out of crisis
Ashley Westwood is no stranger to Indian football.
He guided Bengaluru FC to the then top-flight title in his and the club’s first season in Indian professional football and won three trophies with the club, becoming a legend among its faithful.
Last month, the former Manchester United academy graduate returned to coaching duties in Indian football after four years, taking charge of Kerala Blasters in the Indian Super League (ISL).
“I was here from the start of the ISL when it was only a six-week league… and now it has developed into an eight to 10-month league. So, I’ve seen it all. It has had a tough time this last year. But like anything, it’s a work in progress, a process,” Westwood tells Sportstar in an exclusive interview.
Ashley Westwood’s success at Bengaluru FC wasn’t just about results, but two I-League titles and a Federation Cup gave it weight and permanence. | Photo Credit: K. MURALI KUMAR
Ashley Westwood’s success at Bengaluru FC wasn’t just about results, but two I-League titles and a Federation Cup gave it weight and permanence. | Photo Credit: K. MURALI KUMAR
Ashley Westwood’s record in Indian football:
Teams managed: Bengaluru FC, ATK, Punjab FC, Kerala Blasters
Total matches: 89
Wins: 46
Losses: 26
Draws: 17
Trophies: I-League x2 (2013-14, 2015-2016), Federation Cup (2014-15)
But unlike Bengaluru, he finds himself in a precarious position at Kerala Blasters.
The three-time ISL finalist has struggled for form this season, and with no wins in six matches, the Blasters parted ways with head coach David Catala, while their fan club, the Manjappada, boycotted matches citing mismanagement.
“Football is challenging anyway. Sometimes you get fortunate, and you go into a club mid-season because a coach has done well, and you take over a team at the top of the league, but that’s very rare,” Westwood says.
“Normally, if you go into a club halfway through a season, it’s because they’re not doing very well, because a manager has lost his job. Of course, with Bengaluru, it was a brand-new club. So, any challenge is good.”
Westwood opened his Blasters stint on a forgettable note, losing 0-2 to the newly formed Sporting Club Delhi. However, he found the perfect opportunity to respond against Bengaluru FC in the match that followed, which the Blasters won for their first victory of the season.
“I enjoy challenges. There’s lots of improvement to come, hopefully, and maybe we can do that. I’ve done it before in all the roles I’ve been in. So, I’m hoping to do the same again. Let’s see if we can keep improving things,” he says.
The Achilles heel of the Blue Tigers?
Team Hong Kong head coach Ashley Westwood (R) talks to Matthew Elliot Wing Kai Orr of Hong Kong (L) during the Asian Cup qualifier Group C match at Kai Tak Stadium on November 18, 2025, in Hong Kong, China. | Photo Credit: Getty Images
Team Hong Kong head coach Ashley Westwood (R) talks to Matthew Elliot Wing Kai Orr of Hong Kong (L) during the Asian Cup qualifier Group C match at Kai Tak Stadium on November 18, 2025, in Hong Kong, China. | Photo Credit: Getty Images
There’s another side to Westwood beyond domestic football. He has managed two Asian sides, Afghanistan and Hong Kong. Both pulled off significant upsets against India.
In 2024, India lost to Afghanistan on home soil for the second time ever, which turned out to be one of the last matches under coach Igor Stimac. A year later, Hong Kong beat India in an AFC Asian Cup qualifier. Manolo Marquez, who had stepped into Stimac’s shoes, parted ways shortly after.
So, is the Englishman a nemesis for India’s coaches?
“No, it’s certainly not a personal thing. Coincidence happens in football. With me, I try to win every game, whoever it is,” Westwood says.
“Predominantly, my record shows that I do win quite a few games, and unfortunately, a few of them have been against India. I don’t look at it as a scalp; I look at it as a game of football, and one that we won.”
It was no surprise that Westwood was among the names circulating in Indian football circles as a potential coach of the Blue Tigers, first after Stimac and then after Marquez.
“It’s (the question has) come around a lot of times. I’ve been close a lot of times. It hasn’t happened. I won’t comment on that particular job where they have a manager, of course,” he says. “But regardless of the job, I’ll concentrate on what I need to do, which is improve Kerala Blasters.”
Winds of change at Kerala Blasters
There have been signs of optimism in the Blasters camp since his arrival. They have signed former Real Madrid Castilla winger Franchu, who scored the winner on his ISL debut against Bengaluru FC.
“Hopefully, this carries on. It’s simple: you give everything in a relationship and, normally, you get it back. Football has a unique way of taking care of you if you take care of your work rate. That’s all we’re trying to do,” Westwood says.
But the tactician will know that slip-ups could cost the team heavily, especially in a truncated season where each team plays each other just once.
Kerala Blasters’ remaining matches:
Kerala Blasters vs NorthEast United — April 15
Kerala Blasters vs Jamshedpur FC — April 18
Kerala Blasters vs Odisha FC — April 23
Kerala Blasters vs Mohammedan Sporting — May 10
Kerala Blasters vs FC Goa — May 23
Despite the win, the Blasters remain second from bottom, and losses from here, especially against bottom-placed Mohammedan Sporting, could see the club struggle to stay afloat in the top flight this season.
“We won’t be in a relegation dogfight. That’s my belief, not an expectation. I’m confident in myself. . . There’s definitely an area for us to improve and get some wins. So, I’m not concerned about where they were. I’m just trying to look at where we might finish,” he says.
Bengaluru FC earned a place in Indian football discussions in its maiden season under Westwood. The Blasters, who had slipped out of that discourse with underwhelming results, will look to tread a similar path under the same man in the dugout.
Published on Apr 14, 2026
#Kerala #Blasters #NorthEast #United #Ashley #Westwood #hopes #continue #pulling #KBFC #crisis

Sports news ashley westwood, Bengaluru FC, Blue Tigers, football India, Franchu Kerala Blasters, Igor Stimac, India football team, indian football, Indian football coaches, indian super league, ISL 2026, ISL analysis, ISL fixtures, isl news, kerala blasters, Kerala Blasters coach, Kerala Blasters matches, manolo márquez, Westwood Bengaluru success, Westwood interview April 15, 2026

Ashley Westwood is no stranger to Indian football.

He guided Bengaluru FC to the then top-flight title in his and the club’s first season in Indian professional football and won three trophies with the club, becoming a legend among its faithful.

Last month, the former Manchester United academy graduate returned to coaching duties in Indian football after four years, taking charge of Kerala Blasters in the Indian Super League (ISL).

“I was here from the start of the ISL when it was only a six-week league… and now it has developed into an eight to 10-month league. So, I’ve seen it all. It has had a tough time this last year. But like anything, it’s a work in progress, a process,” Westwood tells Sportstar in an exclusive interview.

Ashley Westwood’s success at Bengaluru FC wasn’t just about results, but two I-League titles and a Federation Cup gave it weight and permanence.
| Photo Credit:
K. MURALI KUMAR

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Ashley Westwood’s success at Bengaluru FC wasn’t just about results, but two I-League titles and a Federation Cup gave it weight and permanence.
| Photo Credit:
K. MURALI KUMAR

Ashley Westwood’s record in Indian football:

Teams managed: Bengaluru FC, ATK, Punjab FC, Kerala Blasters

Total matches: 89

Wins: 46

Losses: 26

Draws: 17

Trophies: I-League x2 (2013-14, 2015-2016), Federation Cup (2014-15)

But unlike Bengaluru, he finds himself in a precarious position at Kerala Blasters.

The three-time ISL finalist has struggled for form this season, and with no wins in six matches, the Blasters parted ways with head coach David Catala, while their fan club, the Manjappada, boycotted matches citing mismanagement.

“Football is challenging anyway. Sometimes you get fortunate, and you go into a club mid-season because a coach has done well, and you take over a team at the top of the league, but that’s very rare,” Westwood says.

“Normally, if you go into a club halfway through a season, it’s because they’re not doing very well, because a manager has lost his job. Of course, with Bengaluru, it was a brand-new club. So, any challenge is good.”

Westwood opened his Blasters stint on a forgettable note, losing 0-2 to the newly formed Sporting Club Delhi. However, he found the perfect opportunity to respond against Bengaluru FC in the match that followed, which the Blasters won for their first victory of the season.

“I enjoy challenges. There’s lots of improvement to come, hopefully, and maybe we can do that. I’ve done it before in all the roles I’ve been in. So, I’m hoping to do the same again. Let’s see if we can keep improving things,” he says.

The Achilles heel of the Blue Tigers?

Team Hong Kong head coach Ashley Westwood (R) talks to Matthew Elliot Wing Kai Orr of Hong Kong (L) during the Asian Cup qualifier Group C match at Kai Tak Stadium on November 18, 2025, in Hong Kong, China.
| Photo Credit:
Getty Images

lightbox-info

There’s another side to Westwood beyond domestic football. He has managed two Asian sides, Afghanistan and Hong Kong. Both pulled off significant upsets against India.

In 2024, India lost to Afghanistan on home soil for the second time ever, which turned out to be one of the last matches under coach Igor Stimac. A year later, Hong Kong beat India in an AFC Asian Cup qualifier. Manolo Marquez, who had stepped into Stimac’s shoes, parted ways shortly after.

So, is the Englishman a nemesis for India’s coaches?

“No, it’s certainly not a personal thing. Coincidence happens in football. With me, I try to win every game, whoever it is,” Westwood says.

“Predominantly, my record shows that I do win quite a few games, and unfortunately, a few of them have been against India. I don’t look at it as a scalp; I look at it as a game of football, and one that we won.”

It was no surprise that Westwood was among the names circulating in Indian football circles as a potential coach of the Blue Tigers, first after Stimac and then after Marquez.

“It’s (the question has) come around a lot of times. I’ve been close a lot of times. It hasn’t happened. I won’t comment on that particular job where they have a manager, of course,” he says. “But regardless of the job, I’ll concentrate on what I need to do, which is improve Kerala Blasters.”

Winds of change at Kerala Blasters

There have been signs of optimism in the Blasters camp since his arrival. They have signed former Real Madrid Castilla winger Franchu, who scored the winner on his ISL debut against Bengaluru FC.

“Hopefully, this carries on. It’s simple: you give everything in a relationship and, normally, you get it back. Football has a unique way of taking care of you if you take care of your work rate. That’s all we’re trying to do,” Westwood says.

But the tactician will know that slip-ups could cost the team heavily, especially in a truncated season where each team plays each other just once.

Kerala Blasters’ remaining matches:

Kerala Blasters vs NorthEast United — April 15

Kerala Blasters vs Jamshedpur FC — April 18

Kerala Blasters vs Odisha FC — April 23

Kerala Blasters vs Mohammedan Sporting — May 10

Kerala Blasters vs FC Goa — May 23

Despite the win, the Blasters remain second from bottom, and losses from here, especially against bottom-placed Mohammedan Sporting, could see the club struggle to stay afloat in the top flight this season.

“We won’t be in a relegation dogfight. That’s my belief, not an expectation. I’m confident in myself. . . There’s definitely an area for us to improve and get some wins. So, I’m not concerned about where they were. I’m just trying to look at where we might finish,” he says.

Bengaluru FC earned a place in Indian football discussions in its maiden season under Westwood. The Blasters, who had slipped out of that discourse with underwhelming results, will look to tread a similar path under the same man in the dugout.

Published on Apr 14, 2026

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#Kerala #Blasters #NorthEast #United #Ashley #Westwood #hopes #continue #pulling #KBFC #crisis

Tag ashley westwood Bengaluru FC Blue Tigers football India Franchu Kerala Blasters Igor Stimac India football team indian football Indian football coaches indian super league ISL 2026 ISL analysis ISL fixtures isl news kerala blasters Kerala Blasters coach Kerala Blasters matches manolo márquez Westwood Bengaluru success Westwood interview

China tests submarine cable cutter at 3,500-metre depth<div id=""><p datatype="p" data-qa="Component-Component" class="e8zc9q40 css-1c6uqr6 ec74h0k1">A Chinese deep-sea mission has successfully tested an advanced device capable of cutting through underwater structures such as submarine cable at a depth of thousands of metres.</p><p datatype="p" data-qa="Component-Component" class="e8zc9q40 css-1c6uqr6 ec74h0k1">The “Haiyang Dizhi 2” research vessel completed its first deep-sea scientific mission of 2026 last Saturday, according to the Ministry of Natural Resources.</p><div datatype="p" data-qa="Component-Component" class="e8zc9q40 css-1xdhyk6 ec74h0k0">The expedition included a cutting test of a deep-sea electro-hydrostatic actuator at a depth of 3,500 metres (11,483 feet), using technology that has drawn attention for its <a target="_self" class="e1yy41x40 ef9u0v01 css-1ankfgb ecgc78b0" href="https://www.scmp.com/news/china/science/article/3303246/china-unveils-powerful-deep-sea-cable-cutter-could-reset-world-order?module=inline&pgtype=article" title="" data-qa="BaseLink-renderAnchor-StyledAnchor"><span data-qa="Component-Text" class="css-0 ef9u0v00">potential military use</span></a>.</div><p datatype="p" data-qa="Component-Component" class="e8zc9q40 css-1c6uqr6 ec74h0k1">“The sea trial has bridged the ‘last mile’ from deep-sea equipment development to engineering application,” the official China Science Daily reported on Saturday, suggesting the equipment was now poised for actual deployment.</p><div class="image-inline-container e1a5rv550 css-1llrc1m e1yqhwb40" data-qa="Component-renderMap-StyledDiv"><div class="image-inline caption e1fvabeq0 css-19sk4h4 ea9pn0s0" data-qa="Component-Container"><figure class="image-inline caption ea9pn0s1 css-12vv9w2 e1gf69pb0" data-qa="ArticleImage-ArticleImageContainer"><div data-qa="ArticleImage-handleRenderImage-ImageContainer" class="css-bjn8wh e1gf69pb3"><img alt="The Haiyang Dizhi 2’s electro-hydrostatic actuator is expected to play a role in the construction and repair of deep-sea oil and gas pipelines. Photo: Handout" data-qa="BaseImage-handleRenderImage-StyledImage" class="e1gf69pb2 css-6ikqhs e445x7d0" loading="lazy" src="https://img.i-scmp.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=contain,width=1024,format=auto/sites/default/files/d8/images/canvas/2026/04/15/8e65c5ac-6fb9-4e21-981e-bf99a4bf1dc8_8d4ad456.jpg" title="The Haiyang Dizhi 2’s electro-hydrostatic actuator is expected to play a role in the construction and repair of deep-sea oil and gas pipelines. Photo: Handout"/></div><figcaption data-qa="ArticleImage-DescriptionContainer" class="css-1bj5zno e1gf69pb1">The Haiyang Dizhi 2’s electro-hydrostatic actuator is expected to play a role in the construction and repair of deep-sea oil and gas pipelines. Photo: Handout</figcaption></figure></div></div><p datatype="p" data-qa="Component-Component" class="e8zc9q40 css-1c6uqr6 ec74h0k1">An electro-hydrostatic actuator, or EHA, integrates the hydraulic system, electric motor and control unit into a single compact device, eliminating the external oil piping typical of conventional systems.</p></div>#China #tests #submarine #cable #cutter #3500metre #depthShanghai Jiao Tong University, ZJU, Ocean University of China, China Science Daily, Mei Deqing, Zhejiang University, BRICS Inventions Exhibition, Dalian Maritime University, Jiaolong, Guangzhou Marine Geological Survey, Ministry of Natural Resources, Haiyang Dizhi

Deadspin | Pirates’ postseason push in need of reset against Mets Jul 26, 2026; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates relief pitcher Carmen Mlodzinski (50) pitches against the Chicago Cubs during the eighth inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images It’s make-or-break time for the Pittsburgh Pirates as they return home on Friday to open a three-game series against the New York Mets. The Pirates bolstered their bullpen at the trade deadline in the hopes of making a playoff push, but they lost their third consecutive game on Thursday and dropped to three games under .500 for the first time this season. The Mets, mired in last place in the National League East and already looking toward the future, will turn to rookie left-hander Zac Thornton (2-2, 2.88 ERA) for his seventh career start, his first against the Pirates. New York’s fifth-round pick in 2023, Thornton will oppose right-hander Carmen Mlodzinski (6-3, 3.15 ERA), who returns to Pittsburgh’s rotation for the first time since May 25. Mlodzinski will fill in for veteran Mitch Keller, who was placed on the 60-day injured list this week due to a season-ending shoulder injury. The Pirates have lost eight of their past 10 games and are behind five teams in the chase for the National League’s final wild-card spot. Pittsburgh traded for relievers Camilo Doval, Luke Weaver, Kirby Yates and Lake Bachar ahead of the Monday deadline, and a 4-3 win at Milwaukee that night appeared to energize the clubhouse. However, three consecutive losses to the Brewers followed. Pittsburgh likely needs an extended winning streak to reach the postseason, but the Pirates haven’t won more than five in a row this season (March 31-April 5). “There are gonna be weeks where we’re gonna find ourselves in the situation we are now … but next week we could win all six between the next two series and find ourselves in a wild-card spot,” Pirates second baseman Brandon Lowe said. “It’s gonna be a grind, and we’re gonna have to play our best baseball up until the final game. Wipe what happened here and get ready for New York.” Mlodzinski made his first start of this season and only career start against the Mets on March 29, and he did not factor in the decision after allowing two runs on six hits in 4 1/3 innings. He struck out eight and did not issue a walk. As a reliever the past two-plus months, Mlodzinski made 14 appearances, going 2-0 with a 2.29 ERA, two saves, 30 strikeouts and 11 walks over 39 1/3 innings. The Mets took two of three against the visiting Pirates to open the season and are coming off their third sweep of 2026, having taken three in a row at Cleveland. With a win on Friday, they would match their longest winning streaks of the year, four-game runs from April 3-7 and May 27-31. The recent surge was a welcome sight for veterans such as Bo Bichette, who believe the club can build off such success in the second half as it evaluates new players. “The way I look at it is, I think there’s no doubt this team is going to be better next year,” Bichette said. “I really believe that. There’s still a lot of talent in this room, a lot of young talent that’s really hungry, combined with guys that have been around who have done a lot of great things in this game. And then on top of that, typically when you have a season like this, people show up a little bit more motivated. So I think that this group is going to be well-prepared to be better next year.” Thornton will try to regroup after lasting 4 2/3 innings in a 6-2 home loss to the Miami Marlins on Saturday. He allowed four runs (three earned) on six hits, including a home run, and three walks while striking out two. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Pirates #postseason #push #reset #Mets

#Deadspin #Pirates #postseason #push #reset #Mets">

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Jul 26, 2026; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates relief pitcher Carmen Mlodzinski (50) pitches against the Chicago Cubs during the eighth inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

It’s make-or-break time for the Pittsburgh Pirates as they return home on Friday to open a three-game series against the New York Mets.

The Pirates bolstered their bullpen at the trade deadline in the hopes of making a playoff push, but they lost their third consecutive game on Thursday and dropped to three games under .500 for the first time this season.

The Mets, mired in last place in the National League East and already looking toward the future, will turn to rookie left-hander Zac Thornton (2-2, 2.88 ERA) for his seventh career start, his first against the Pirates.

New York’s fifth-round pick in 2023, Thornton will oppose right-hander Carmen Mlodzinski (6-3, 3.15 ERA), who returns to Pittsburgh’s rotation for the first time since May 25. Mlodzinski will fill in for veteran Mitch Keller, who was placed on the 60-day injured list this week due to a season-ending shoulder injury.

The Pirates have lost eight of their past 10 games and are behind five teams in the chase for the National League’s final wild-card spot.

Pittsburgh traded for relievers Camilo Doval, Luke Weaver, Kirby Yates and Lake Bachar ahead of the Monday deadline, and a 4-3 win at Milwaukee that night appeared to energize the clubhouse.

However, three consecutive losses to the Brewers followed. Pittsburgh likely needs an extended winning streak to reach the postseason, but the Pirates haven’t won more than five in a row this season (March 31-April 5).

“There are gonna be weeks where we’re gonna find ourselves in the situation we are now … but next week we could win all six between the next two series and find ourselves in a wild-card spot,” Pirates second baseman Brandon Lowe said. “It’s gonna be a grind, and we’re gonna have to play our best baseball up until the final game. Wipe what happened here and get ready for New York.”

Mlodzinski made his first start of this season and only career start against the Mets on March 29, and he did not factor in the decision after allowing two runs on six hits in 4 1/3 innings. He struck out eight and did not issue a walk.

As a reliever the past two-plus months, Mlodzinski made 14 appearances, going 2-0 with a 2.29 ERA, two saves, 30 strikeouts and 11 walks over 39 1/3 innings.

The Mets took two of three against the visiting Pirates to open the season and are coming off their third sweep of 2026, having taken three in a row at Cleveland. With a win on Friday, they would match their longest winning streaks of the year, four-game runs from April 3-7 and May 27-31.

The recent surge was a welcome sight for veterans such as Bo Bichette, who believe the club can build off such success in the second half as it evaluates new players.

“The way I look at it is, I think there’s no doubt this team is going to be better next year,” Bichette said. “I really believe that. There’s still a lot of talent in this room, a lot of young talent that’s really hungry, combined with guys that have been around who have done a lot of great things in this game. And then on top of that, typically when you have a season like this, people show up a little bit more motivated. So I think that this group is going to be well-prepared to be better next year.”

Thornton will try to regroup after lasting 4 2/3 innings in a 6-2 home loss to the Miami Marlins on Saturday. He allowed four runs (three earned) on six hits, including a home run, and three walks while striking out two.

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Pirates #postseason #push #reset #Mets">Deadspin | Pirates’ postseason push in need of reset against Mets

Jul 26, 2026; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates relief pitcher Carmen Mlodzinski (50) pitches against the Chicago Cubs during the eighth inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

It’s make-or-break time for the Pittsburgh Pirates as they return home on Friday to open a three-game series against the New York Mets.

The Pirates bolstered their bullpen at the trade deadline in the hopes of making a playoff push, but they lost their third consecutive game on Thursday and dropped to three games under .500 for the first time this season.

The Mets, mired in last place in the National League East and already looking toward the future, will turn to rookie left-hander Zac Thornton (2-2, 2.88 ERA) for his seventh career start, his first against the Pirates.

New York’s fifth-round pick in 2023, Thornton will oppose right-hander Carmen Mlodzinski (6-3, 3.15 ERA), who returns to Pittsburgh’s rotation for the first time since May 25. Mlodzinski will fill in for veteran Mitch Keller, who was placed on the 60-day injured list this week due to a season-ending shoulder injury.

The Pirates have lost eight of their past 10 games and are behind five teams in the chase for the National League’s final wild-card spot.

Pittsburgh traded for relievers Camilo Doval, Luke Weaver, Kirby Yates and Lake Bachar ahead of the Monday deadline, and a 4-3 win at Milwaukee that night appeared to energize the clubhouse.

However, three consecutive losses to the Brewers followed. Pittsburgh likely needs an extended winning streak to reach the postseason, but the Pirates haven’t won more than five in a row this season (March 31-April 5).

“There are gonna be weeks where we’re gonna find ourselves in the situation we are now … but next week we could win all six between the next two series and find ourselves in a wild-card spot,” Pirates second baseman Brandon Lowe said. “It’s gonna be a grind, and we’re gonna have to play our best baseball up until the final game. Wipe what happened here and get ready for New York.”

Mlodzinski made his first start of this season and only career start against the Mets on March 29, and he did not factor in the decision after allowing two runs on six hits in 4 1/3 innings. He struck out eight and did not issue a walk.

As a reliever the past two-plus months, Mlodzinski made 14 appearances, going 2-0 with a 2.29 ERA, two saves, 30 strikeouts and 11 walks over 39 1/3 innings.

The Mets took two of three against the visiting Pirates to open the season and are coming off their third sweep of 2026, having taken three in a row at Cleveland. With a win on Friday, they would match their longest winning streaks of the year, four-game runs from April 3-7 and May 27-31.

The recent surge was a welcome sight for veterans such as Bo Bichette, who believe the club can build off such success in the second half as it evaluates new players.

“The way I look at it is, I think there’s no doubt this team is going to be better next year,” Bichette said. “I really believe that. There’s still a lot of talent in this room, a lot of young talent that’s really hungry, combined with guys that have been around who have done a lot of great things in this game. And then on top of that, typically when you have a season like this, people show up a little bit more motivated. So I think that this group is going to be well-prepared to be better next year.”

Thornton will try to regroup after lasting 4 2/3 innings in a 6-2 home loss to the Miami Marlins on Saturday. He allowed four runs (three earned) on six hits, including a home run, and three walks while striking out two.

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Pirates #postseason #push #reset #Mets

INDIANAPOLIS — It’ll be hard to find any contest this WNBA season that compares to Thursday’s Fever-Aces showdown.

Both teams had enormous scoring runs across the first three quarters, then played down to the final buzzer in overtime and regulation. A pair of costly miscues from Caitlin Clark at the end of each segment set up Chelsea Gray for two buzzer beaters, the first to send the game to the extra session and the second to give the Aces an improbable win.

“We still battled,” Clark said postgame. “We still fought and we put ourselves in position to win the game and then, honestly, it was me that made costly errors for us. So that’s on me to help us win. That’s my job. That’s what I get paid to do.”

No game is decided by the play or mistakes of one player, but Clark’s late faux pas will certainly draw attention, as is the case with everything she does.

At the end of regulation, both Clark and Mitchell had chances to ice the game away at the line in the final seconds. The latter split her pair, missing the second before A’ja Wilson stepped out of bounds to turn the ball over while trying to save it.

Clark would eventually get to the line with seven seconds left and the chance to make it a two-possession game with Indiana up 75-72. She would miss both looks, keeping the door open for Las Vegas. Gray took full advantage, coming up with a loose ball on a broken play before calmly burying a long-range look to tie the game.

“This can’t happen,” Clark said. “Those are free throws I usually make. Certainly frustrating. Obviously, one of them gives us a two-possession lead and I kind of cost my team there for sure. So that’s on me.”

The two teams traded baskets throughout the extra session with Wilson and Mitchell doing the lion’s share of the scoring for their respective teams. Eventually, the Fever found themselves in a familiar spot, leading by one with just under 30 seconds remaining.

A bit of confusion and miscommunication left Clark standing near mid-court with Wilson, the reigning Defensive Player of the Year, in front of her, 30 feet from the basket. Despite the situation, Clark could not create a shot and turned the ball over after Wilson tipped a pass in the air and corralled it. The Aces did not call a timeout and raced down the court before Gray capped off her heroics with the game-winner.

All that came after some huge momentum swings in the first three frames. The Fever were flying up and down the court in the second period, blowing the game open with a 24-4 run to take a 42-22 lead with four minutes left in the first half.

In direct response, the Aces scored the final 15 points of the second period and the first seven points of the third quarter to take the lead. In the end, the Aces went on a 40-11 run that spanned their largest deficit and largest lead of the game, the latter coming at 62-53 early in the fourth.

Clark certainly had a role in pulling Indiana back into the game, including a pair of big threes that gave Indiana the lead, the latter coming with 1:48 left. An Aliyah Boston puback off her own miss put the hosts ahead 74-72 with 30 seconds left before the Fever forced a miss from Wilson to set up the frantic finish.

Postgame, Clark willingly shouldered the blame for the loss. However, on a night when the Fever turned the ball over 21 times, gave up 12 offensive rebounds and shot 35% in the second half, her head coach wouldn’t let her.

“I think you like that as ownership,” Stephanie White said. “But as an athlete and as a coach and as somebody who’s been around for a long time, it doesn’t come down to one singular thing. Like we know that. She’s disappointed in herself certainly, as I’m sure a lot of our players are. But we got to use it as fuel.

“And she’s going to be better. I know she’s going to be better on Saturday because of it. I mean she’s a competitor. She’s a fighter…But it doesn’t come down to one thing and I know, again, it’s easy to look at it and think that it does, but it was a collection of things. If we cut our turnovers in half, it’s a different ballgame.”

#Caitlin #Clark #takes #blame #wild #Fever #loss #Aces #happen">

Caitlin Clark takes blame in wild Fever loss to Aces: ‘This can’t happen’ INDIANAPOLIS — It’ll be hard to find any contest this WNBA season that compares to Thursday’s Fever-Aces showdown.Both teams had enormous scoring runs across the first three quarters, then played down to the final buzzer in overtime and regulation. A pair of costly miscues from Caitlin Clark at the end of each segment set up Chelsea Gray for two buzzer beaters, the first to send the game to the extra session and the second to give the Aces an improbable win.“We still battled,” Clark said postgame. “We still fought and we put ourselves in position to win the game and then, honestly, it was me that made costly errors for us. So that’s on me to help us win. That’s my job. That’s what I get paid to do.”No game is decided by the play or mistakes of one player, but Clark’s late faux pas will certainly draw attention, as is the case with everything she does.At the end of regulation, both Clark and Mitchell had chances to ice the game away at the line in the final seconds. The latter split her pair, missing the second before A’ja Wilson stepped out of bounds to turn the ball over while trying to save it.Clark would eventually get to the line with seven seconds left and the chance to make it a two-possession game with Indiana up 75-72. She would miss both looks, keeping the door open for Las Vegas. Gray took full advantage, coming up with a loose ball on a broken play before calmly burying a long-range look to tie the game.“This can’t happen,” Clark said. “Those are free throws I usually make. Certainly frustrating. Obviously, one of them gives us a two-possession lead and I kind of cost my team there for sure. So that’s on me.”The two teams traded baskets throughout the extra session with Wilson and Mitchell doing the lion’s share of the scoring for their respective teams. Eventually, the Fever found themselves in a familiar spot, leading by one with just under 30 seconds remaining.A bit of confusion and miscommunication left Clark standing near mid-court with Wilson, the reigning Defensive Player of the Year, in front of her, 30 feet from the basket. Despite the situation, Clark could not create a shot and turned the ball over after Wilson tipped a pass in the air and corralled it. The Aces did not call a timeout and raced down the court before Gray capped off her heroics with the game-winner.All that came after some huge momentum swings in the first three frames. The Fever were flying up and down the court in the second period, blowing the game open with a 24-4 run to take a 42-22 lead with four minutes left in the first half.In direct response, the Aces scored the final 15 points of the second period and the first seven points of the third quarter to take the lead. In the end, the Aces went on a 40-11 run that spanned their largest deficit and largest lead of the game, the latter coming at 62-53 early in the fourth.Clark certainly had a role in pulling Indiana back into the game, including a pair of big threes that gave Indiana the lead, the latter coming with 1:48 left. An Aliyah Boston puback off her own miss put the hosts ahead 74-72 with 30 seconds left before the Fever forced a miss from Wilson to set up the frantic finish.Postgame, Clark willingly shouldered the blame for the loss. However, on a night when the Fever turned the ball over 21 times, gave up 12 offensive rebounds and shot 35% in the second half, her head coach wouldn’t let her.“I think you like that as ownership,” Stephanie White said. “But as an athlete and as a coach and as somebody who’s been around for a long time, it doesn’t come down to one singular thing. Like we know that. She’s disappointed in herself certainly, as I’m sure a lot of our players are. But we got to use it as fuel.“And she’s going to be better. I know she’s going to be better on Saturday because of it. I mean she’s a competitor. She’s a fighter…But it doesn’t come down to one thing and I know, again, it’s easy to look at it and think that it does, but it was a collection of things. If we cut our turnovers in half, it’s a different ballgame.” #Caitlin #Clark #takes #blame #wild #Fever #loss #Aces #happen

mwasimuddin125 0

INDIANAPOLIS — It’ll be hard to find any contest this WNBA season that compares to Thursday’s Fever-Aces showdown.
Both teams had enormous scoring runs across the first three quarters, then played down to the final buzzer in overtime and regulation. A pair of costly miscues from Caitlin Clark at the end of each segment set up Chelsea Gray for two buzzer beaters, the first to send the game to the extra session and the second to give the Aces an improbable win.
“We still battled,” Clark said postgame. “We still fought and we put ourselves in position to win the game and then, honestly, it was me that made costly errors for us. So that’s on me to help us win. That’s my job. That’s what I get paid to do.”
No game is decided by the play or mistakes of one player, but Clark’s late faux pas will certainly draw attention, as is the case with everything she does.
At the end of regulation, both Clark and Mitchell had chances to ice the game away at the line in the final seconds. The latter split her pair, missing the second before A’ja Wilson stepped out of bounds to turn the ball over while trying to save it.
Clark would eventually get to the line with seven seconds left and the chance to make it a two-possession game with Indiana up 75-72. She would miss both looks, keeping the door open for Las Vegas. Gray took full advantage, coming up with a loose ball on a broken play before calmly burying a long-range look to tie the game.
“This can’t happen,” Clark said. “Those are free throws I usually make. Certainly frustrating. Obviously, one of them gives us a two-possession lead and I kind of cost my team there for sure. So that’s on me.”
The two teams traded baskets throughout the extra session with Wilson and Mitchell doing the lion’s share of the scoring for their respective teams. Eventually, the Fever found themselves in a familiar spot, leading by one with just under 30 seconds remaining.
A bit of confusion and miscommunication left Clark standing near mid-court with Wilson, the reigning Defensive Player of the Year, in front of her, 30 feet from the basket. Despite the situation, Clark could not create a shot and turned the ball over after Wilson tipped a pass in the air and corralled it. The Aces did not call a timeout and raced down the court before Gray capped off her heroics with the game-winner.
All that came after some huge momentum swings in the first three frames. The Fever were flying up and down the court in the second period, blowing the game open with a 24-4 run to take a 42-22 lead with four minutes left in the first half.
In direct response, the Aces scored the final 15 points of the second period and the first seven points of the third quarter to take the lead. In the end, the Aces went on a 40-11 run that spanned their largest deficit and largest lead of the game, the latter coming at 62-53 early in the fourth.
Clark certainly had a role in pulling Indiana back into the game, including a pair of big threes that gave Indiana the lead, the latter coming with 1:48 left. An Aliyah Boston puback off her own miss put the hosts ahead 74-72 with 30 seconds left before the Fever forced a miss from Wilson to set up the frantic finish.
Postgame, Clark willingly shouldered the blame for the loss. However, on a night when the Fever turned the ball over 21 times, gave up 12 offensive rebounds and shot 35% in the second half, her head coach wouldn’t let her.
“I think you like that as ownership,” Stephanie White said. “But as an athlete and as a coach and as somebody who’s been around for a long time, it doesn’t come down to one singular thing. Like we know that. She’s disappointed in herself certainly, as I’m sure a lot of our players are. But we got to use it as fuel.
“And she’s going to be better. I know she’s going to be better on Saturday because of it. I mean she’s a competitor. She’s a fighter…But it doesn’t come down to one thing and I know, again, it’s easy to look at it and think that it does, but it was a collection of things. If we cut our turnovers in half, it’s a different ballgame.”

#Caitlin #Clark #takes #blame #wild #Fever #loss #Aces #happen">Caitlin Clark takes blame in wild Fever loss to Aces: ‘This can’t happen’

INDIANAPOLIS — It’ll be hard to find any contest this WNBA season that compares to Thursday’s Fever-Aces showdown.

No game is decided by the play or mistakes of one player, but Clark’s late faux pas will certainly draw attention, as is the case with everything she does.

#Caitlin #Clark #takes #blame #wild #Fever #loss #Aces #happen

IND vs SL XI Live Score: Catch the live scores, updates and highlights from the Tour match between India and Sri Lanka Cricket XI starting at the Nondescripts Cricket Club Ground, Colombo, on Friday.

Updated : Aug 07, 2026 12:07 IST

India will play a 2-match Test series in Sri Lanka starting August 15. | Photo Credit: RITURAJ KONWAR

elcome to Sportstar’s live coverage of Day 1 of the Tour match between India and Sri Lanka Cricket XI at the Nondescripts Cricket Club Ground, Colombo.

The Shubman Gill-led side will look to get accustomed to the conditions on offer ahead of the two-match Test series starting on August 15.

Stay tuned for live updates from the three-day game.

Match info:

Date: August 7-9, 2026

Time: 10 am start

Venue: NCC Ground, Colombo

India squad: Shubman Gill(c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Devdutt Padikkal, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant(w), Ravindra Jadeja, Dhruv Jurel, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav, Saransh Jain, Auqib Nabi, Manav Suthar, Gurnoor Brar

Sri Lanka squad: Nishan Madushka(w), Nipun Dhananjaya, Ravindu Rasantha, Pavan Rathnayake, Ahan Wickramasinghe, Sonal Dinusha(c), Ramesh Mendis, Dilum Sudeera, Vishwa Fernando, Lahiru Kumara, Pasindu Sooriyabandara, Isitha Wijesundera, Asanka Manoj, Anjala Bandara, Keshara Nuwantha

LUNCH ON DAY 1

That first session belongs to the host. Save the run-out dismissal, Sri Lanka has been pretty impressive. Ravindu Rasantha is batting on 50 and would eye a bigger score when action resumes.

Fifty for Ravindu!

A clip through the legside against Suthar helps Ravindu Rasantha reach the 50-run mark in 82 balls. Five fours and one six in his knock so far.

SLC XI 138/1 in 29 overs

SLC XI 110/1

Manav Suthar into the attack. Breakthrough for India as the two batters end up at the same end trying to steal a run. Nishan Madushka will have to walk back after scoring 66 off 65 balls. Madushka had called for a run after driving towards covers. Ravindu tried sending him back but it was too late.

SLC XI 101/0

Kuldeep Yadav is into the attack. Another vital cog for India. He hasn’t been in best of forms in the white ball formats. Needs to get his rhythm back so crucial three days for him.

SLC XI 72/0

Sri Lankan openers – Nishan Madushka and Ravindu Rasantha – have been really good, not only with their defence but also scoring runs. India yet to get a breakthrough or help from the wicket.

SLC XI 43/0

From the other end, Gurnoor Brar is into the attack. So, five-over spells from Siraj and Prasidh are done. They couldn’t find much help off the wicket. Let’s see how Brar and Jadeja operate here.

SL XI 41/0

India has opted for spin after 10 overs. Ravindra Jadeja is into attack. He will play a crucial part in the two Tests.

SLC XI 23/0

No breakthroughs yet for the two Indian pacers. The pitch has been quite benign so far, with not much movement off the pitch or in the air.

In case you were wondering…
Why is Shubman Gill not playing for India in practice match against Sri Lanka XI?
Shubman Gill misses India’s practice match against Sri Lanka XI due to an impact injury sustained during training.
SLC XI 12/0
Another drive through the offside for Madushka against Siraj. The length has been a touch too full from the Hyderabad pacer. Ball doing nothing in the air for him.
No Auqib Nabi yet
It will be Prasidh Krishna who will share the new ball with Siraj. Ravindu also gets off the mark with a clip through fine leg for a boundary.
Time for red-ball action!
Mohammed Siraj to get us underway with the brand new red cherry in hand. Ravindu Rashantha and Nishan Madushka open the innings for the host.
Madushka begins proceedings with a sumptuous push through the covers for four.
Saransh, Nabi in action
The match against SLC XI will give India a chance to try out both players called up to the national team for the first time — Auqib Nabi and Saransh Jain.
Nabi might be in action at the beginning with the new ball in hand but might not be a direct entry into the playing eleven.
Saransh, the off-spinner, will be vying for a starting spot with Manav Suthar and Kuldeep Yadav.
Sri Lanka squad
Nishan Madushka(w), Nipun Dhananjaya, Ravindu Rasantha, Pavan Rathnayake, Ahan Wickramasinghe, Sonal Dinusha(c), Ramesh Mendis, Dilum Sudeera, Vishwa Fernando, Lahiru Kumara, Pasindu Sooriyabandara, Isitha Wijesundera, Asanka Manoj, Anjala Bandara, Keshara Nuwantha
India squad
Shubman Gill(c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Devdutt Padikkal, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant(w), Ravindra Jadeja, Dhruv Jurel, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav, Saransh Jain, Auqib Nabi, Manav Suthar, Gurnoor Brar
Toss update!
SLC XI has won the toss and elected to bat first against India.
Good morning!
Welcome to the live coverage of Day 1 of the Tour match between India and Sri Lanka Cricket XI taking place in Colombo. Stay tuned for the scores and live updates from the contest.

Published on Aug 07, 2026

#India #Sri #Lanka #Cricket #LIVE #Score #Tour #match #Day #updates #SLC #LUNCH #Ravindu #Rasantha #completes #fifty">

mwasimuddin125 0

IND vs SL XI Live Score: Catch the live scores, updates and highlights from the Tour match between India and Sri Lanka Cricket XI starting at the Nondescripts Cricket Club Ground, Colombo, on Friday.

Updated : Aug 07, 2026 12:07 IST

India will play a 2-match Test series in Sri Lanka starting August 15. | Photo Credit: RITURAJ KONWAR

elcome to Sportstar’s live coverage of Day 1 of the Tour match between India and Sri Lanka Cricket XI at the Nondescripts Cricket Club Ground, Colombo.

The Shubman Gill-led side will look to get accustomed to the conditions on offer ahead of the two-match Test series starting on August 15.

Stay tuned for live updates from the three-day game.

Match info:

Date: August 7-9, 2026

Time: 10 am start

Venue: NCC Ground, Colombo

LUNCH ON DAY 1
That first session belongs to the host. Save the run-out dismissal, Sri Lanka has been pretty impressive. Ravindu Rasantha is batting on 50 and would eye a bigger score when action resumes.
Fifty for Ravindu!
A clip through the legside against Suthar helps Ravindu Rasantha reach the 50-run mark in 82 balls. Five fours and one six in his knock so far.
SLC XI 138/1 in 29 overs
SLC XI 110/1
Manav Suthar into the attack. Breakthrough for India as the two batters end up at the same end trying to steal a run. Nishan Madushka will have to walk back after scoring 66 off 65 balls. Madushka had called for a run after driving towards covers. Ravindu tried sending him back but it was too late.
SLC XI 101/0
Kuldeep Yadav is into the attack. Another vital cog for India. He hasn’t been in best of forms in the white ball formats. Needs to get his rhythm back so crucial three days for him.
SLC XI 72/0
Sri Lankan openers – Nishan Madushka and Ravindu Rasantha – have been really good, not only with their defence but also scoring runs. India yet to get a breakthrough or help from the wicket.
SLC XI 43/0
From the other end, Gurnoor Brar is into the attack. So, five-over spells from Siraj and Prasidh are done. They couldn’t find much help off the wicket. Let’s see how Brar and Jadeja operate here.
SL XI 41/0
India has opted for spin after 10 overs. Ravindra Jadeja is into attack. He will play a crucial part in the two Tests.
SLC XI 23/0
No breakthroughs yet for the two Indian pacers. The pitch has been quite benign so far, with not much movement off the pitch or in the air.
In case you were wondering…
Why is Shubman Gill not playing for India in practice match against Sri Lanka XI?
Shubman Gill misses India’s practice match against Sri Lanka XI due to an impact injury sustained during training.
SLC XI 12/0
Another drive through the offside for Madushka against Siraj. The length has been a touch too full from the Hyderabad pacer. Ball doing nothing in the air for him.
No Auqib Nabi yet
It will be Prasidh Krishna who will share the new ball with Siraj. Ravindu also gets off the mark with a clip through fine leg for a boundary.
Time for red-ball action!
Mohammed Siraj to get us underway with the brand new red cherry in hand. Ravindu Rashantha and Nishan Madushka open the innings for the host.
Madushka begins proceedings with a sumptuous push through the covers for four.
Saransh, Nabi in action
The match against SLC XI will give India a chance to try out both players called up to the national team for the first time — Auqib Nabi and Saransh Jain.
Nabi might be in action at the beginning with the new ball in hand but might not be a direct entry into the playing eleven.
Saransh, the off-spinner, will be vying for a starting spot with Manav Suthar and Kuldeep Yadav.
Sri Lanka squad
Nishan Madushka(w), Nipun Dhananjaya, Ravindu Rasantha, Pavan Rathnayake, Ahan Wickramasinghe, Sonal Dinusha(c), Ramesh Mendis, Dilum Sudeera, Vishwa Fernando, Lahiru Kumara, Pasindu Sooriyabandara, Isitha Wijesundera, Asanka Manoj, Anjala Bandara, Keshara Nuwantha
India squad
Shubman Gill(c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Devdutt Padikkal, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant(w), Ravindra Jadeja, Dhruv Jurel, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav, Saransh Jain, Auqib Nabi, Manav Suthar, Gurnoor Brar
Toss update!
SLC XI has won the toss and elected to bat first against India.
Good morning!
Welcome to the live coverage of Day 1 of the Tour match between India and Sri Lanka Cricket XI taking place in Colombo. Stay tuned for the scores and live updates from the contest.

Published on Aug 07, 2026

#India #Sri #Lanka #Cricket #LIVE #Score #Tour #match #Day #updates #SLC #LUNCH #Ravindu #Rasantha #completes #fifty">India vs Sri Lanka Cricket XI LIVE Score, Tour match Day 1 updates: SLC XI 138/1 at LUNCH; Ravindu Rasantha completes fifty

IND vs SL XI Live Score: Catch the live scores, updates and highlights from the Tour match between India and Sri Lanka Cricket XI starting at the Nondescripts Cricket Club Ground, Colombo, on Friday.

Updated : Aug 07, 2026 12:07 IST

India will play a 2-match Test series in Sri Lanka starting August 15. | Photo Credit: RITURAJ KONWAR

India will play a 2-match Test series in Sri Lanka starting August 15. | Photo Credit: RITURAJ KONWAR

elcome to Sportstar’s live coverage of Day 1 of the Tour match between India and Sri Lanka Cricket XI at the Nondescripts Cricket Club Ground, Colombo.

The Shubman Gill-led side will look to get accustomed to the conditions on offer ahead of the two-match Test series starting on August 15.

Stay tuned for live updates from the three-day game.

Match info:

Date: August 7-9, 2026

Time: 10 am start

Venue: NCC Ground, Colombo

LUNCH ON DAY 1
That first session belongs to the host. Save the run-out dismissal, Sri Lanka has been pretty impressive. Ravindu Rasantha is batting on 50 and would eye a bigger score when action resumes.
Fifty for Ravindu!
A clip through the legside against Suthar helps Ravindu Rasantha reach the 50-run mark in 82 balls. Five fours and one six in his knock so far.
SLC XI 138/1 in 29 overs
SLC XI 110/1
Manav Suthar into the attack. Breakthrough for India as the two batters end up at the same end trying to steal a run. Nishan Madushka will have to walk back after scoring 66 off 65 balls. Madushka had called for a run after driving towards covers. Ravindu tried sending him back but it was too late.
SLC XI 101/0
Kuldeep Yadav is into the attack. Another vital cog for India. He hasn’t been in best of forms in the white ball formats. Needs to get his rhythm back so crucial three days for him.
SLC XI 72/0
Sri Lankan openers – Nishan Madushka and Ravindu Rasantha – have been really good, not only with their defence but also scoring runs. India yet to get a breakthrough or help from the wicket.
SLC XI 43/0
From the other end, Gurnoor Brar is into the attack. So, five-over spells from Siraj and Prasidh are done. They couldn’t find much help off the wicket. Let’s see how Brar and Jadeja operate here.
SL XI 41/0
India has opted for spin after 10 overs. Ravindra Jadeja is into attack. He will play a crucial part in the two Tests.
SLC XI 23/0
No breakthroughs yet for the two Indian pacers. The pitch has been quite benign so far, with not much movement off the pitch or in the air.
In case you were wondering…
Why is Shubman Gill not playing for India in practice match against Sri Lanka XI?
Shubman Gill misses India’s practice match against Sri Lanka XI due to an impact injury sustained during training.
SLC XI 12/0
Another drive through the offside for Madushka against Siraj. The length has been a touch too full from the Hyderabad pacer. Ball doing nothing in the air for him.
No Auqib Nabi yet
It will be Prasidh Krishna who will share the new ball with Siraj. Ravindu also gets off the mark with a clip through fine leg for a boundary.
Time for red-ball action!
Mohammed Siraj to get us underway with the brand new red cherry in hand. Ravindu Rashantha and Nishan Madushka open the innings for the host.
Madushka begins proceedings with a sumptuous push through the covers for four.
Saransh, Nabi in action
The match against SLC XI will give India a chance to try out both players called up to the national team for the first time — Auqib Nabi and Saransh Jain.
Nabi might be in action at the beginning with the new ball in hand but might not be a direct entry into the playing eleven.
Saransh, the off-spinner, will be vying for a starting spot with Manav Suthar and Kuldeep Yadav.
Sri Lanka squad
Nishan Madushka(w), Nipun Dhananjaya, Ravindu Rasantha, Pavan Rathnayake, Ahan Wickramasinghe, Sonal Dinusha(c), Ramesh Mendis, Dilum Sudeera, Vishwa Fernando, Lahiru Kumara, Pasindu Sooriyabandara, Isitha Wijesundera, Asanka Manoj, Anjala Bandara, Keshara Nuwantha
India squad
Shubman Gill(c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Devdutt Padikkal, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant(w), Ravindra Jadeja, Dhruv Jurel, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav, Saransh Jain, Auqib Nabi, Manav Suthar, Gurnoor Brar
Toss update!
SLC XI has won the toss and elected to bat first against India.
Good morning!
Welcome to the live coverage of Day 1 of the Tour match between India and Sri Lanka Cricket XI taking place in Colombo. Stay tuned for the scores and live updates from the contest.

Published on Aug 07, 2026

#India #Sri #Lanka #Cricket #LIVE #Score #Tour #match #Day #updates #SLC #LUNCH #Ravindu #Rasantha #completes #fifty

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Why is Shubman Gill not playing for India in practice match against Sri Lanka XI?

Why is Shubman Gill not playing for India in practice match against Sri Lanka XI?

IND vs SL XI Live Score: Catch the live scores, updates and highlights from the Tour match between India and Sri Lanka Cricket XI starting at the Nondescripts Cricket Club Ground, Colombo, on Friday.

Why is Shubman Gill not playing for India in practice match against Sri Lanka XI?

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