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NBA Coaching Carousel Shaken Up by Michael Malone’s Surprise UNC Move | Deadspin.com Oct 14, 2022; San Francisco, California, USA; Denver Nuggets head coach Mike Malone reacts after he is called for a foul during the first half of the game against the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: John Hefti-Imagn Images It was a rough season to be a bad team in the NBA.All season long, NBA commissioner Adam Silver has talked about punishments for teams that are tanking. With less than a week remaining in the NBA’s regular season, two teams have already lost 60 games, the Indiana Pacers and Washington Wizards. It’s possible that the league could have eight additional teams with at least 50 losses by the end of the season.The competition to land the No. 1 overall pick to draft AJ Dybantsa or Darryn Peterson seems stiff. Yet still, plenty of NBA teams will be firing their head coach and begin searching for a replacement.And after the North Carolina Tar Heels formally announce former Denver Nuggets head coach Michael Malone as their new basketball coach, this offseason’s NBA coaching cycle is going to get even weirder.Malone has over 500 career wins in the NBA and a championship ring on his finger from Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray’s championship together. As life in the NBA works, the Nuggets fired Malone shortly after that championship, and he’s done some television work before landing this mega opportunity at UNC.But for rebuilding teams that are about to fire their head coach after this season? Malone was expected to be the top veteran candidate. Other retread options include former New York Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau and former Portland Trail Blazers coach Terry Stotts. But neither of those candidates felt as enticing as Malone, who will now be busy running his own program in the college ranks.Of course, it’s possible that bad teams will scoop up top assistants. Cleveland Cavaliers associate head coach Johnnie Bryant got some attention last cycle for his reputation working with star players. Miami Heat assistant Chris Quinn is also highly regarded for player development.Let’s take a look at a few NBA teams that could’ve used Malone, and now might have to settle on a lesser candidate.Milwaukee Bucks (if they fire Doc Rivers) Mar 19, 2026; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Milwaukee Bucks head coach Doc Rivers reacts to a play against the Utah Jazz during the first half at Delta Center. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-Imagn Images As it turns out, the decision to replace Adrian Griffin with Doc Rivers was a massive mistake for Milwaukee.The Bucks are under NBA investigation for their handling of Giannis Antetokounmpo’s injury. Following so much drama, it feels like the Bucks and Antetokounmpo could be heading for a major split this offseason.But the Bucks have been awful and will likely have a decent draft pick plus a small haul of picks and promising, young players that they could get in return for Antetokounmpo.Orlando Magic (if they fire Jamahl Mosley) Feb 24, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero (5) moves the ball up court against the Los Angeles Lakers during the first half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images The Magic underwhelmed.They traded a bunch of assets for Desmond Bane, who was thought to be the missing piece and perfect complement to Paolo Banchero as a three-point shooter. That just hasn’t been the case.Orlando has fallen to the No. 9 seed in the Eastern Conference and will be fighting for their playoff livelihoods in the NBA Play-In Tournament. Sure, there’s still time to go on a crazy run. But if they don’t? Mosley could be axed and there’d be no shortage of candidates interested in coaching Banchero.Chicago Bulls (if they fire Billy Donovan)It feels like Bulls head coach Billy Donovan is a dead man walking, especially after the team canned their top two executives before the conclusion of the regular season.Donovan was rumored to be a favorite for the UNC job, so the Bulls could’ve been planning replacements anyways.Currently 29-49, the Bulls feel like one of the most directionless organizations in the NBA right now. #NBA #Coaching #Carousel #Shaken #Michael #Malones #Surprise #UNC #Move #Deadspin.com

NBA Coaching Carousel Shaken Up by Michael Malone’s Surprise UNC Move | Deadspin.com
NBA Coaching Carousel Shaken Up by Michael Malone’s Surprise UNC Move | Deadspin.com Oct 14, 2022; San Francisco, California, USA; Denver Nuggets head coach Mike Malone reacts after he is called for a foul during the first half of the game against the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: John Hefti-Imagn Images It was a rough season to be a bad team in the NBA.All season long, NBA commissioner Adam Silver has talked about punishments for teams that are tanking. With less than a week remaining in the NBA’s regular season, two teams have already lost 60 games, the Indiana Pacers and Washington Wizards. It’s possible that the league could have eight additional teams with at least 50 losses by the end of the season.The competition to land the No. 1 overall pick to draft AJ Dybantsa or Darryn Peterson seems stiff. Yet still, plenty of NBA teams will be firing their head coach and begin searching for a replacement.And after the North Carolina Tar Heels formally announce former Denver Nuggets head coach Michael Malone as their new basketball coach, this offseason’s NBA coaching cycle is going to get even weirder.Malone has over 500 career wins in the NBA and a championship ring on his finger from Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray’s championship together. As life in the NBA works, the Nuggets fired Malone shortly after that championship, and he’s done some television work before landing this mega opportunity at UNC.But for rebuilding teams that are about to fire their head coach after this season? Malone was expected to be the top veteran candidate. Other retread options include former New York Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau and former Portland Trail Blazers coach Terry Stotts. But neither of those candidates felt as enticing as Malone, who will now be busy running his own program in the college ranks.Of course, it’s possible that bad teams will scoop up top assistants. Cleveland Cavaliers associate head coach Johnnie Bryant got some attention last cycle for his reputation working with star players. Miami Heat assistant Chris Quinn is also highly regarded for player development.Let’s take a look at a few NBA teams that could’ve used Malone, and now might have to settle on a lesser candidate.Milwaukee Bucks (if they fire Doc Rivers) Mar 19, 2026; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Milwaukee Bucks head coach Doc Rivers reacts to a play against the Utah Jazz during the first half at Delta Center. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-Imagn Images As it turns out, the decision to replace Adrian Griffin with Doc Rivers was a massive mistake for Milwaukee.The Bucks are under NBA investigation for their handling of Giannis Antetokounmpo’s injury. Following so much drama, it feels like the Bucks and Antetokounmpo could be heading for a major split this offseason.But the Bucks have been awful and will likely have a decent draft pick plus a small haul of picks and promising, young players that they could get in return for Antetokounmpo.Orlando Magic (if they fire Jamahl Mosley) Feb 24, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero (5) moves the ball up court against the Los Angeles Lakers during the first half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images The Magic underwhelmed.They traded a bunch of assets for Desmond Bane, who was thought to be the missing piece and perfect complement to Paolo Banchero as a three-point shooter. That just hasn’t been the case.Orlando has fallen to the No. 9 seed in the Eastern Conference and will be fighting for their playoff livelihoods in the NBA Play-In Tournament. Sure, there’s still time to go on a crazy run. But if they don’t? Mosley could be axed and there’d be no shortage of candidates interested in coaching Banchero.Chicago Bulls (if they fire Billy Donovan)It feels like Bulls head coach Billy Donovan is a dead man walking, especially after the team canned their top two executives before the conclusion of the regular season.Donovan was rumored to be a favorite for the UNC job, so the Bulls could’ve been planning replacements anyways.Currently 29-49, the Bulls feel like one of the most directionless organizations in the NBA right now. #NBA #Coaching #Carousel #Shaken #Michael #Malones #Surprise #UNC #Move #Deadspin.comOct 14, 2022; San Francisco, California, USA; Denver Nuggets head coach Mike Malone reacts after he is called for a foul during the first half of the game against the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: John Hefti-Imagn Images

It was a rough season to be a bad team in the NBA.

All season long, NBA commissioner Adam Silver has talked about punishments for teams that are tanking. With less than a week remaining in the NBA’s regular season, two teams have already lost 60 games, the Indiana Pacers and Washington Wizards. It’s possible that the league could have eight additional teams with at least 50 losses by the end of the season.

The competition to land the No. 1 overall pick to draft AJ Dybantsa or Darryn Peterson seems stiff. Yet still, plenty of NBA teams will be firing their head coach and begin searching for a replacement.

And after the North Carolina Tar Heels formally announce former Denver Nuggets head coach Michael Malone as their new basketball coach, this offseason’s NBA coaching cycle is going to get even weirder.

Malone has over 500 career wins in the NBA and a championship ring on his finger from Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray’s championship together. As life in the NBA works, the Nuggets fired Malone shortly after that championship, and he’s done some television work before landing this mega opportunity at UNC.

But for rebuilding teams that are about to fire their head coach after this season? Malone was expected to be the top veteran candidate. Other retread options include former New York Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau and former Portland Trail Blazers coach Terry Stotts. But neither of those candidates felt as enticing as Malone, who will now be busy running his own program in the college ranks.

Of course, it’s possible that bad teams will scoop up top assistants. Cleveland Cavaliers associate head coach Johnnie Bryant got some attention last cycle for his reputation working with star players. Miami Heat assistant Chris Quinn is also highly regarded for player development.

Let’s take a look at a few NBA teams that could’ve used Malone, and now might have to settle on a lesser candidate.

Milwaukee Bucks (if they fire Doc Rivers)

Mar 19, 2026; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Milwaukee Bucks head coach Doc Rivers reacts to a play against the Utah Jazz during the first half at Delta Center. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-Imagn ImagesMar 19, 2026; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Milwaukee Bucks head coach Doc Rivers reacts to a play against the Utah Jazz during the first half at Delta Center. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-Imagn Images

As it turns out, the decision to replace Adrian Griffin with Doc Rivers was a massive mistake for Milwaukee.

The Bucks are under NBA investigation for their handling of Giannis Antetokounmpo’s injury. Following so much drama, it feels like the Bucks and Antetokounmpo could be heading for a major split this offseason.

But the Bucks have been awful and will likely have a decent draft pick plus a small haul of picks and promising, young players that they could get in return for Antetokounmpo.

Orlando Magic (if they fire Jamahl Mosley)

Feb 24, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero (5) moves the ball up court against the Los Angeles Lakers during the first half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn ImagesFeb 24, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero (5) moves the ball up court against the Los Angeles Lakers during the first half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

The Magic underwhelmed.

They traded a bunch of assets for Desmond Bane, who was thought to be the missing piece and perfect complement to Paolo Banchero as a three-point shooter. That just hasn’t been the case.

Orlando has fallen to the No. 9 seed in the Eastern Conference and will be fighting for their playoff livelihoods in the NBA Play-In Tournament. Sure, there’s still time to go on a crazy run. But if they don’t? Mosley could be axed and there’d be no shortage of candidates interested in coaching Banchero.

Chicago Bulls (if they fire Billy Donovan)

It feels like Bulls head coach Billy Donovan is a dead man walking, especially after the team canned their top two executives before the conclusion of the regular season.

Donovan was rumored to be a favorite for the UNC job, so the Bulls could’ve been planning replacements anyways.

Currently 29-49, the Bulls feel like one of the most directionless organizations in the NBA right now.

#NBA #Coaching #Carousel #Shaken #Michael #Malones #Surprise #UNC #Move #Deadspin.com

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Oct 14, 2022; San Francisco, California, USA; Denver Nuggets head coach Mike Malone reacts after he is called for a foul during the first half of the game against the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: John Hefti-Imagn Images

It was a rough season to be a bad team in the NBA.

All season long, NBA commissioner Adam Silver has talked about punishments for teams that are tanking. With less than a week remaining in the NBA’s regular season, two teams have already lost 60 games, the Indiana Pacers and Washington Wizards. It’s possible that the league could have eight additional teams with at least 50 losses by the end of the season.

The competition to land the No. 1 overall pick to draft AJ Dybantsa or Darryn Peterson seems stiff. Yet still, plenty of NBA teams will be firing their head coach and begin searching for a replacement.

And after the North Carolina Tar Heels formally announce former Denver Nuggets head coach Michael Malone as their new basketball coach, this offseason’s NBA coaching cycle is going to get even weirder.

Malone has over 500 career wins in the NBA and a championship ring on his finger from Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray’s championship together. As life in the NBA works, the Nuggets fired Malone shortly after that championship, and he’s done some television work before landing this mega opportunity at UNC.

But for rebuilding teams that are about to fire their head coach after this season? Malone was expected to be the top veteran candidate. Other retread options include former New York Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau and former Portland Trail Blazers coach Terry Stotts. But neither of those candidates felt as enticing as Malone, who will now be busy running his own program in the college ranks.

Of course, it’s possible that bad teams will scoop up top assistants. Cleveland Cavaliers associate head coach Johnnie Bryant got some attention last cycle for his reputation working with star players. Miami Heat assistant Chris Quinn is also highly regarded for player development.

Let’s take a look at a few NBA teams that could’ve used Malone, and now might have to settle on a lesser candidate.

Milwaukee Bucks (if they fire Doc Rivers)

Mar 19, 2026; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Milwaukee Bucks head coach Doc Rivers reacts to a play against the Utah Jazz during the first half at Delta Center. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-Imagn Images
Mar 19, 2026; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Milwaukee Bucks head coach Doc Rivers reacts to a play against the Utah Jazz during the first half at Delta Center. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-Imagn Images

As it turns out, the decision to replace Adrian Griffin with Doc Rivers was a massive mistake for Milwaukee.

The Bucks are under NBA investigation for their handling of Giannis Antetokounmpo’s injury. Following so much drama, it feels like the Bucks and Antetokounmpo could be heading for a major split this offseason.

But the Bucks have been awful and will likely have a decent draft pick plus a small haul of picks and promising, young players that they could get in return for Antetokounmpo.

Orlando Magic (if they fire Jamahl Mosley)

Feb 24, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero (5) moves the ball up court against the Los Angeles Lakers during the first half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn ImagesFeb 24, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero (5) moves the ball up court against the Los Angeles Lakers during the first half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

The Magic underwhelmed.

They traded a bunch of assets for Desmond Bane, who was thought to be the missing piece and perfect complement to Paolo Banchero as a three-point shooter. That just hasn’t been the case.

Orlando has fallen to the No. 9 seed in the Eastern Conference and will be fighting for their playoff livelihoods in the NBA Play-In Tournament. Sure, there’s still time to go on a crazy run. But if they don’t? Mosley could be axed and there’d be no shortage of candidates interested in coaching Banchero.

Chicago Bulls (if they fire Billy Donovan)

It feels like Bulls head coach Billy Donovan is a dead man walking, especially after the team canned their top two executives before the conclusion of the regular season.

Donovan was rumored to be a favorite for the UNC job, so the Bulls could’ve been planning replacements anyways.

Currently 29-49, the Bulls feel like one of the most directionless organizations in the NBA right now.

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#NBA #Coaching #Carousel #Shaken #Michael #Malones #Surprise #UNC #Move #Deadspin.com

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Real Madrid vs Bayern Munich, UEFA Champions League — Preview, team news, head-to-head, live streaming info <div id="content-body-70833528" itemprop="articleBody"><p>Vincent Kompany’s Bayern Munich visits Real Madrid on Tuesday in the Champions League quarterfinals high on confidence and looking like Europe’s most complete side, bolstered by the likely return of superstar striker Harry Kane.</p><p>Record 15-time winner Madrid has endured a difficult season, plagued by inconsistency, but have made a habit of pulling off the unexpected in this competition.</p><p>Just as it seemed its well of Champions League magic was running dry, Madrid produced its best performance of the season to crush Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City in the last 16.</p><p>Despite Madrid’s prestige and troupe of attacking stars — Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, and Jude Bellingham included, as well as City hat-trick hero Federico Valverde — Bayern is arguably the favourite to lift the trophy.</p><div class=" article-picture center"><img src="https://ss-i.thgim.com/public/incoming/128c9m/article70833551.ece/alternates/FREE_1200/GN47886C_EN.jpg" data-original="https://ss-i.thgim.com/public/incoming/128c9m/article70833551.ece/alternates/FREE_1200/GN47886C_EN.jpg" alt="" class=" lazy" width="100%" height="100%"/></div><h4 class="sub_head">Real Madrid vs Bayern head-to-head:</h4><ul class="article-body article-bullet-list"><li> Total matches: 28 </li><li> Real Madrid: 13 </li><li> Bayern Munich: 11 </li><li> Draws: 4 </li></ul><h4 class="sub_head">When was the last time Real Madrid played Bayern Munich in the Champions League?</h4><p>Bayern Munich last played Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League in the 2023-24 semifinals. Madrid won that clash 4-3 on aggregate, winning the home leg 2-1.</p><h4 class="sub_head">When and where will Real Madrid vs Bayern Munich be played?</h4><p>Real Madrid vs Bayern Munich in the UEFA Champions League 2025-26 quarterfinals will be played at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium in Madrid, Spain.</p><p>The match is scheduled to kick off on April 7 at 9 pm local time (12:30 am IST, April 8).</p><h4 class="sub_head">How to watch Real Madrid vs Bayern Munich in the UEFA Champions League?</h4><p>Real Madrid vs Bayern Munich in the UEFA Champions League can be watched on the Sony Sports Network on TV in India. Moreover, it can also be live-streamed on Sony LIV.</p><p>In the UK, fans can watch the game on TNT Sports on TV. It can also be live-streamed on the HBO Max app and website, on a subscriber-only basis.</p><p>In the USA, Real Madrid vs Bayern Munich can be watched on Paramount+.</p><p class="publish-time" id="end-of-article">Published on Apr 07, 2026</p></div> #Real #Madrid #Bayern #Munich #UEFA #Champions #League #Preview #team #news #headtohead #live #streaming #info

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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 #MetsJul 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

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 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, 2026Time: 10 am startVenue: NCC Ground, ColomboIndia 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 BrarSri 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

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

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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

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, 2026Time: 10 am startVenue: NCC Ground, ColomboIndia 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 BrarSri 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

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 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, 2026Time: 10 am startVenue: NCC Ground, ColomboIndia 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 BrarSri 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

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

lightbox-info

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

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