×
Shreyas Iyer has been given a raw deal — Manjrekar on PBKS captain’s omission from Indian T20I team  Shreyas Iyer’s selection for the Indian team has been a talking point in cricketing circles for a while now. Shreyas made headlines in 2024 after he was dropped from the BCCI’s Central Contract list due to non-compliance with the board’s directive to participate in domestic cricket while not on national duty.Since then, he has played only 17 international games, all coming in the 50-over format. Despite guiding Kolkata Knight Riders to the IPL title in 2024 and Punjab Kings to the runner-up spot last season, the Mumbai batter has been overlooked in the shortest format of the game. Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar believes Shreyas got a “raw deal”.“It was just unfair for Shreyas Iyer that his performances down the order didn’t get him in the Indian T20I team, because those are the difficult positions. If he has that angst for somebody for giving that kind of a deal, I think it’s valid,” Manjrekar said on        Sportstar’s Insight Edge podcast.“In the IPL, when his team [Punjab Kings] reached the final, he had a phenomenal IPL. He had the issue where the selectors felt that he was not committing himself enough to domestic cricket, focusing more on the other tournaments. That may have hurt him. When you look at him now and the success Punjab Kings have had, surely we can’t keep him out that long,” he added.RELATED | ‘I was working on my yorker, swing,’ says MI pacer Ashwani after four-wicket haulShreyas had a blockbuster IPL 2025 season with the bat, scoring 604 runs at 50.33 average and a whopping strike rate of 175.07. This season, he has been striking at 182.46 and has already scored three half-centuries in six games. Taking his red-hot form in the IPL into account, Manjrekar believes there is still a spot for Shreyas in the Indian team, possibly even as a potential captaincy option.“I think there could be a place for him at number four. He is somebody who can take singles on a slow, turning pitch and is a good player of spin. I think he’s done enough to merit a place in the T20 side, and in 50 overs as well,” the former Mumbai batter said.“The [captaincy] option is always there. After Suryakumar Yadav, who do you give it to? There’s no obvious candidate. So that could be killing two birds with one stone. But, it’s all premature at this stage because he’s not even in the Indian team,” he added.[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=58JRdBRAbIk[/embed]Published on Apr 21, 2026  #Shreyas #Iyer #raw #deal #Manjrekar #PBKS #captains #omission #Indian #T20I #team

Shreyas Iyer has been given a raw deal — Manjrekar on PBKS captain’s omission from Indian T20I team

Shreyas Iyer’s selection for the Indian team has been a talking point in cricketing circles for a while now. Shreyas made headlines in 2024 after he was dropped from the BCCI’s Central Contract list due to non-compliance with the board’s directive to participate in domestic cricket while not on national duty.

Since then, he has played only 17 international games, all coming in the 50-over format. Despite guiding Kolkata Knight Riders to the IPL title in 2024 and Punjab Kings to the runner-up spot last season, the Mumbai batter has been overlooked in the shortest format of the game. Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar believes Shreyas got a “raw deal”.

“It was just unfair for Shreyas Iyer that his performances down the order didn’t get him in the Indian T20I team, because those are the difficult positions. If he has that angst for somebody for giving that kind of a deal, I think it’s valid,” Manjrekar said on  Sportstar’s Insight Edge podcast.

“In the IPL, when his team [Punjab Kings] reached the final, he had a phenomenal IPL. He had the issue where the selectors felt that he was not committing himself enough to domestic cricket, focusing more on the other tournaments. That may have hurt him. When you look at him now and the success Punjab Kings have had, surely we can’t keep him out that long,” he added.

RELATED | ‘I was working on my yorker, swing,’ says MI pacer Ashwani after four-wicket haul

Shreyas had a blockbuster IPL 2025 season with the bat, scoring 604 runs at 50.33 average and a whopping strike rate of 175.07. This season, he has been striking at 182.46 and has already scored three half-centuries in six games. Taking his red-hot form in the IPL into account, Manjrekar believes there is still a spot for Shreyas in the Indian team, possibly even as a potential captaincy option.

“I think there could be a place for him at number four. He is somebody who can take singles on a slow, turning pitch and is a good player of spin. I think he’s done enough to merit a place in the T20 side, and in 50 overs as well,” the former Mumbai batter said.

“The [captaincy] option is always there. After Suryakumar Yadav, who do you give it to? There’s no obvious candidate. So that could be killing two birds with one stone. But, it’s all premature at this stage because he’s not even in the Indian team,” he added.

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=58JRdBRAbIk[/embed]

Published on Apr 21, 2026

#Shreyas #Iyer #raw #deal #Manjrekar #PBKS #captains #omission #Indian #T20I #team

Shreyas Iyer’s selection for the Indian team has been a talking point in cricketing circles for a while now. Shreyas made headlines in 2024 after he was dropped from the BCCI’s Central Contract list due to non-compliance with the board’s directive to participate in domestic cricket while not on national duty.

Since then, he has played only 17 international games, all coming in the 50-over format. Despite guiding Kolkata Knight Riders to the IPL title in 2024 and Punjab Kings to the runner-up spot last season, the Mumbai batter has been overlooked in the shortest format of the game. Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar believes Shreyas got a “raw deal”.

“It was just unfair for Shreyas Iyer that his performances down the order didn’t get him in the Indian T20I team, because those are the difficult positions. If he has that angst for somebody for giving that kind of a deal, I think it’s valid,” Manjrekar said on  Sportstar’s Insight Edge podcast.

“In the IPL, when his team [Punjab Kings] reached the final, he had a phenomenal IPL. He had the issue where the selectors felt that he was not committing himself enough to domestic cricket, focusing more on the other tournaments. That may have hurt him. When you look at him now and the success Punjab Kings have had, surely we can’t keep him out that long,” he added.

RELATED | ‘I was working on my yorker, swing,’ says MI pacer Ashwani after four-wicket haul

Shreyas had a blockbuster IPL 2025 season with the bat, scoring 604 runs at 50.33 average and a whopping strike rate of 175.07. This season, he has been striking at 182.46 and has already scored three half-centuries in six games. Taking his red-hot form in the IPL into account, Manjrekar believes there is still a spot for Shreyas in the Indian team, possibly even as a potential captaincy option.

“I think there could be a place for him at number four. He is somebody who can take singles on a slow, turning pitch and is a good player of spin. I think he’s done enough to merit a place in the T20 side, and in 50 overs as well,” the former Mumbai batter said.

“The [captaincy] option is always there. After Suryakumar Yadav, who do you give it to? There’s no obvious candidate. So that could be killing two birds with one stone. But, it’s all premature at this stage because he’s not even in the Indian team,” he added.

Published on Apr 21, 2026

Source link
#Shreyas #Iyer #raw #deal #Manjrekar #PBKS #captains #omission #Indian #T20I #team

Previous post

Bank of Korea Governor Supports CBDCs, Deposit Tokens in First Speech

Next post

Deadspin | Otto Lopez gets timely RBI as Marlins stop Cardinals streak <div id=""><section id="0" class=" w-full"><div class="xl:container mx-0 !px-4 py-0 pb-4 !mx-0 !px-0"><img src="https://images.deadspin.com/tr:w-900/28773799.jpg" srcset="https://images.deadspin.com/tr:w-900/28773799.jpg" alt="MLB: St. Louis Cardinals at Miami Marlins" class="w-full" fetchpriority="high" loading="eager"/><span class="text-0.8 leading-tight">Apr 20, 2026; Miami, Florida, USA; Miami Marlins starting pitcher Max Meyer (23) pitches in the first inning against the St. Louis Cardinals at loanDepot Park. Mandatory Credit: Jim Rassol-Imagn Images<!-- --> <!-- --> </span></div></section><section id="section-1"> <p>Otto Lopez stroked a go-ahead, RBI double in the sixth inning as the host Miami Marlins ended St. Louis’ five-game win streak by defeating the Cardinals 5-3 on Monday night.</p> </section><section id="section-2"> <p>Pete Fairbanks pitched a one-run ninth to earn his fourth save. He was part of a Marlins bullpen that combined to pitch 3 2/3 innings, allowing just that one run.</p> </section><section id="section-3"> <p>Cardinals outfielder Jordan Walker extended his hitting streak to 15 games. That’s two games short of the career-best streak he had as a rookie in 2023.</p> </section><section id="section-4"> <p>Marlins starter Max Meyer got a no-decision, allowing three hits, two walks and two runs in 5 1/3 innings.</p> </section><section id="section-5"> <p>Michael McGreevy (1-2) retired the first 10 Marlins batters but took the loss. He lasted 5 2/3 innings, allowing five hits, two walks and four runs.</p> </section><section id="section-6"> <p>St. Louis opened the scoring in the fourth. Walker singled on a 112-mph grounder to center. He stole second, advanced on a bounced wild pitch and scored on Masyn Winn’s sacrifice fly.</p> </section><section id="section-7"> <p>Miami tied the score 1-1 in the bottom of the fourth as Kyle Stowers walked on four pitches, advanced on a groundout and scored on Xavier Edwards’ ground-rule double.</p> </section><br/><section id="section-8"> <p>The Marlins took a 2-1 lead in the fifth on Agustin Ramirez’s 411-foot homer to left-center.</p> </section> <section id="section-9"> <p>St. Louis made it 2-2 in the sixth as Walker walked, went to third on a Winn single and scored on reliever Calvin Faucher’s wild pitch.</p> </section><section id="section-10"> <p>Miami grabbed a 4-2 lead in the bottom of the sixth as Stowers singled and scored from first on Lopez’s double down the third-base line. Edwards then walked, and Liam Hicks followed with an RBI single.</p> </section><section id="section-11"> <p>The Marlins nearly got more on that play, but Cardinals rocket-armed shortstop Winn’s relay throw to the plate got the speedy Edwards, who was trying to score from first on Hicks’ single.</p> </section><section id="section-12"> <p>St. Louis pulled McGreevy at that point, and reliever Matt Svanson got Ramirez on a groundout to end the threat.</p> </section><section id="section-13"> <p>The Marlins added an insurance run in the eighth. Lopez and Edwards walked, and Hicks delivered an RBI single.</p> </section><section id="section-14"> <p>Winn led off the ninth with a triple and scored on Ramon Urias’ sacrifice fly, but that was all for the Cardinals.</p> </section><section id="section-15"> <p>–Field Level Media</p> </section></div> #Deadspin #Otto #Lopez #timely #RBI #Marlins #stop #Cardinals #streak

If the WNBA playoffs started today, we’d be in store for four riveting first-round series. The league-best Minnesota Lynx would face the surging Washington Mystics. The reigning champions, Las Vegas Aces, would face the New York Liberty. Gabby Williams and the Golden State Valkyries would host Angel Reese and the Atlanta Dream. And Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever would battle Paige Bueckers and the Dallas Wings.

Here’s how the first round would stack up, and my way-too-early predictions for who will emerge victorious.

#1 Minnesota Lynx (25-6) vs #8 Washington Mystics (16-12)

WASHINGTON, DC - JUNE 24: Olivia Miles #5 of the Minnesota Lynx shoots the ball against Shakira Austin #0 of the Washington Mystics during the third quarter at CareFirst Arena on June 24, 2026 in Washington, DC. The Lynx defeated the Mystics 78-76. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON, DC – JUNE 24: Olivia Miles #5 of the Minnesota Lynx shoots the ball against Shakira Austin #0 of the Washington Mystics during the third quarter at CareFirst Arena on June 24, 2026 in Washington, DC. The Lynx defeated the Mystics 78-76. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images)
Getty Images

The Lynx will be heavily favored in this match-up, though the Mystics have won 4 straight and are playing some of their best basketball of the season. Minnesota has been led by Rookie of the Year shoo-in Olivia Miles, as well as a supporting cast that includes Courtney Williams, Kayla McBride, and Natasha Howard.

On top of that, Napheesa Collier is back from double ankle surgeries that sidelined her for most of the season. Minnesota has won 10 straight games and have outscored opponents by an average of 9.3 points per game this season.

The Mystics, therefore, face an uphill climb in the first round. Shakira Austin, Kiki Iriafen, and Sonia Citron have all had big-time seasons, but all three have very limited playoff experience (Austin played two postseason games in 2022, while Iriafen and Citron did not make the playoffs as rookies). Washington will be happy to get playoff experience for their young core, but this is a formidable first-round assignment. The two teams have split their regular season series so far, and both games came down to the wire.

Another fun wrinkle? Former Notre Dame guards Olivia Miles and Sonia Citron would be squaring off.

Tentative Prediction: Lynx in 2

#2 Las Vegas Aces (21-9) vs #7 New York Liberty (18-13)

BROOKLYN, NY - OCTOBER 1: Breanna Stewart #30 of the New York Liberty plays defense on A’ja Wilson #22 of the Las Vegas Aces during Round Two Game Two of the 2024 WNBA Playoffs on October 1, 2024 in Brooklyn, New York. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photo by David Dow/NBAE via Getty Images)

BROOKLYN, NY – OCTOBER 1: Breanna Stewart #30 of the New York Liberty plays defense on A’ja Wilson #22 of the Las Vegas Aces during Round Two Game Two of the 2024 WNBA Playoffs on October 1, 2024 in Brooklyn, New York. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photo by David Dow/NBAE via Getty Images)
NBAE via Getty Images

Few could have projected that the Aces and Liberty would square off in the first round. The two teams faced off in the 2023 Finals, with Las Vegas emerging victorious, and then again in the 2024 Semi-Finals, with New York coming out on top en route to their franchise-first championship.

But New York has had a down year and unexpectedly slipped to the 7th-best record in the league under first-year head coach Chris DeMarco. It still could all come together. New York has been better with Leonie Fiebich in the lineup, and Sabrina Ionescu is finally healthy. But Breanna Stewart needs more from her supporting cast — whether that’s more consistency from former MVP Jonquel Jones or more from the bench.

The Aces have won three titles in the last four seasons, and while they haven’t had a perfect season, A’ja Wilson continues to play some of the best basketball of her career while the championship backcourt of Jackie Young and Chelsea Gray continues to thrive.

New York beat Las Vegas in the Commissioner’s Cup, but that was with Wilson sidelined, so it’s hard to know how much of what worked then would carry over to a postseason matchup. The Aces and Liberty split the other two matchups.

Tentative Prediction: Aces in 3

#3 Golden State Valkyries (21-9) vs #6 Atlanta Dream (18-11)

ATLANTA, GA - JULY 4: Jordin Canada #3 of the Atlanta Dream dribbles the ball during the game against the Golden State Valkyries on July 4, 2026 at Gateway Center Arena at College Park in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Adam Hagy/NBAE via Getty Images)

ATLANTA, GA – JULY 4: Jordin Canada #3 of the Atlanta Dream dribbles the ball during the game against the Golden State Valkyries on July 4, 2026 at Gateway Center Arena at College Park in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Adam Hagy/NBAE via Getty Images)
NBAE via Getty Images

The Valkyries swept their season series against the Dream over the span of a week, beating them three times as part of Atlanta’s season-worst 5-game losing streak. Was that just a bad week at work for the Dream, or a sign of potential trouble to come in a postseason matchup?

Angel Reese has been a revelation for Atlanta, and Rhyne Howard and Allisha Gray were both All-Stars, again. But will they be able to muster up a play style in the playoffs they couldn’t find in the regular season matchup?

Golden State, meanwhile, has been a powerhouse. But will their offensive woes catch up to them in a slowed-down playoff environment? The Valkyries have been elite defensively, but don’t quite have the go-to scoring options that other teams of their caliber do.

Tentative Prediction: Valkyries in 3

#4 Dallas Wings (19-11) vs #5 Indiana Fever (19-11)

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MAY 9: Caitlin Clark #22 of the Indiana Fever drives to the basket during the game against the Dallas Wings on May 9, 2026 at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse inIndianapolis, Indiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Jeff Dean/NBAE via Getty Images)

INDIANAPOLIS, IN – MAY 9: Caitlin Clark #22 of the Indiana Fever drives to the basket during the game against the Dallas Wings on May 9, 2026 at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse inIndianapolis, Indiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Jeff Dean/NBAE via Getty Images)
NBAE via Getty Images

This matchup would feature three of the most electric guards in the league in Caitlin Clark, Paige Bueckers, and Kelsey Mitchell. Plus, No. 1 overall pick Azzi Fudd has had an underrated rookie campaign.

Both the Wings and the Fever have had good seasons, and would make for a star-studded first-round matchup if current standings hold come playoff time. This would be an offensive battle, as both teams have some defensive deficiencies. It will also be the first time Bueckers laces up for playoff action (Clark played two playoff games in her rookie season, but was sidelined in her sophomore campaign).

The Wings and Fever faced off on Opening Day, with the Wings walking away with a 3-point victory. They haven’t faced off since, so it’s anybody’s guess how things would fare come September.

Tentative Prediction: Fever in 3

#Waytooearly #WNBA #playoff #series #matchups #predictions">Way-too-early WNBA playoff series matchups and predictions  If the WNBA playoffs started today, we’d be in store for four riveting first-round series. The league-best Minnesota Lynx would face the surging Washington Mystics. The reigning champions, Las Vegas Aces, would face the New York Liberty. Gabby Williams and the Golden State Valkyries would host Angel Reese and the Atlanta Dream. And Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever would battle Paige Bueckers and the Dallas Wings.Here’s how the first round would stack up, and my way-too-early predictions for who will emerge victorious.#1 Minnesota Lynx (25-6) vs #8 Washington Mystics (16-12)WASHINGTON, DC – JUNE 24: Olivia Miles #5 of the Minnesota Lynx shoots the ball against Shakira Austin #0 of the Washington Mystics during the third quarter at CareFirst Arena on June 24, 2026 in Washington, DC. The Lynx defeated the Mystics 78-76. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images) Getty ImagesThe Lynx will be heavily favored in this match-up, though the Mystics have won 4 straight and are playing some of their best basketball of the season. Minnesota has been led by Rookie of the Year shoo-in Olivia Miles, as well as a supporting cast that includes Courtney Williams, Kayla McBride, and Natasha Howard.On top of that, Napheesa Collier is back from double ankle surgeries that sidelined her for most of the season. Minnesota has won 10 straight games and have outscored opponents by an average of 9.3 points per game this season.The Mystics, therefore, face an uphill climb in the first round. Shakira Austin, Kiki Iriafen, and Sonia Citron have all had big-time seasons, but all three have very limited playoff experience (Austin played two postseason games in 2022, while Iriafen and Citron did not make the playoffs as rookies). Washington will be happy to get playoff experience for their young core, but this is a formidable first-round assignment. The two teams have split their regular season series so far, and both games came down to the wire.Another fun wrinkle? Former Notre Dame guards Olivia Miles and Sonia Citron would be squaring off.Tentative Prediction: Lynx in 2#2 Las Vegas Aces (21-9) vs #7 New York Liberty (18-13)BROOKLYN, NY – OCTOBER 1: Breanna Stewart #30 of the New York Liberty plays defense on A’ja Wilson #22 of the Las Vegas Aces during Round Two Game Two of the 2024 WNBA Playoffs on October 1, 2024 in Brooklyn, New York. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photo by David Dow/NBAE via Getty Images) NBAE via Getty ImagesFew could have projected that the Aces and Liberty would square off in the first round. The two teams faced off in the 2023 Finals, with Las Vegas emerging victorious, and then again in the 2024 Semi-Finals, with New York coming out on top en route to their franchise-first championship.But New York has had a down year and unexpectedly slipped to the 7th-best record in the league under first-year head coach Chris DeMarco. It still could all come together. New York has been better with Leonie Fiebich in the lineup, and Sabrina Ionescu is finally healthy. But Breanna Stewart needs more from her supporting cast — whether that’s more consistency from former MVP Jonquel Jones or more from the bench.The Aces have won three titles in the last four seasons, and while they haven’t had a perfect season, A’ja Wilson continues to play some of the best basketball of her career while the championship backcourt of Jackie Young and Chelsea Gray continues to thrive.New York beat Las Vegas in the Commissioner’s Cup, but that was with Wilson sidelined, so it’s hard to know how much of what worked then would carry over to a postseason matchup. The Aces and Liberty split the other two matchups.Tentative Prediction: Aces in 3#3 Golden State Valkyries (21-9) vs #6 Atlanta Dream (18-11)ATLANTA, GA – JULY 4: Jordin Canada #3 of the Atlanta Dream dribbles the ball during the game against the Golden State Valkyries on July 4, 2026 at Gateway Center Arena at College Park in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Adam Hagy/NBAE via Getty Images) NBAE via Getty ImagesThe Valkyries swept their season series against the Dream over the span of a week, beating them three times as part of Atlanta’s season-worst 5-game losing streak. Was that just a bad week at work for the Dream, or a sign of potential trouble to come in a postseason matchup?Angel Reese has been a revelation for Atlanta, and Rhyne Howard and Allisha Gray were both All-Stars, again. But will they be able to muster up a play style in the playoffs they couldn’t find in the regular season matchup?Golden State, meanwhile, has been a powerhouse. But will their offensive woes catch up to them in a slowed-down playoff environment? The Valkyries have been elite defensively, but don’t quite have the go-to scoring options that other teams of their caliber do.Tentative Prediction: Valkyries in 3#4 Dallas Wings (19-11) vs #5 Indiana Fever (19-11) INDIANAPOLIS, IN – MAY 9: Caitlin Clark #22 of the Indiana Fever drives to the basket during the game against the Dallas Wings on May 9, 2026 at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse inIndianapolis, Indiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Jeff Dean/NBAE via Getty Images) NBAE via Getty ImagesThis matchup would feature three of the most electric guards in the league in Caitlin Clark, Paige Bueckers, and Kelsey Mitchell. Plus, No. 1 overall pick Azzi Fudd has had an underrated rookie campaign.Both the Wings and the Fever have had good seasons, and would make for a star-studded first-round matchup if current standings hold come playoff time. This would be an offensive battle, as both teams have some defensive deficiencies. It will also be the first time Bueckers laces up for playoff action (Clark played two playoff games in her rookie season, but was sidelined in her sophomore campaign).The Wings and Fever faced off on Opening Day, with the Wings walking away with a 3-point victory. They haven’t faced off since, so it’s anybody’s guess how things would fare come September.Tentative Prediction: Fever in 3  #Waytooearly #WNBA #playoff #series #matchups #predictions

WASHINGTON, DC - JUNE 24: Olivia Miles #5 of the Minnesota Lynx shoots the ball against Shakira Austin #0 of the Washington Mystics during the third quarter at CareFirst Arena on June 24, 2026 in Washington, DC. The Lynx defeated the Mystics 78-76. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON, DC – JUNE 24: Olivia Miles #5 of the Minnesota Lynx shoots the ball against Shakira Austin #0 of the Washington Mystics during the third quarter at CareFirst Arena on June 24, 2026 in Washington, DC. The Lynx defeated the Mystics 78-76. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images)
Getty Images

The Lynx will be heavily favored in this match-up, though the Mystics have won 4 straight and are playing some of their best basketball of the season. Minnesota has been led by Rookie of the Year shoo-in Olivia Miles, as well as a supporting cast that includes Courtney Williams, Kayla McBride, and Natasha Howard.

On top of that, Napheesa Collier is back from double ankle surgeries that sidelined her for most of the season. Minnesota has won 10 straight games and have outscored opponents by an average of 9.3 points per game this season.

The Mystics, therefore, face an uphill climb in the first round. Shakira Austin, Kiki Iriafen, and Sonia Citron have all had big-time seasons, but all three have very limited playoff experience (Austin played two postseason games in 2022, while Iriafen and Citron did not make the playoffs as rookies). Washington will be happy to get playoff experience for their young core, but this is a formidable first-round assignment. The two teams have split their regular season series so far, and both games came down to the wire.

Another fun wrinkle? Former Notre Dame guards Olivia Miles and Sonia Citron would be squaring off.

Tentative Prediction: Lynx in 2

#2 Las Vegas Aces (21-9) vs #7 New York Liberty (18-13)

BROOKLYN, NY - OCTOBER 1: Breanna Stewart #30 of the New York Liberty plays defense on A’ja Wilson #22 of the Las Vegas Aces during Round Two Game Two of the 2024 WNBA Playoffs on October 1, 2024 in Brooklyn, New York. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photo by David Dow/NBAE via Getty Images)

BROOKLYN, NY – OCTOBER 1: Breanna Stewart #30 of the New York Liberty plays defense on A’ja Wilson #22 of the Las Vegas Aces during Round Two Game Two of the 2024 WNBA Playoffs on October 1, 2024 in Brooklyn, New York. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photo by David Dow/NBAE via Getty Images)
NBAE via Getty Images

Few could have projected that the Aces and Liberty would square off in the first round. The two teams faced off in the 2023 Finals, with Las Vegas emerging victorious, and then again in the 2024 Semi-Finals, with New York coming out on top en route to their franchise-first championship.

But New York has had a down year and unexpectedly slipped to the 7th-best record in the league under first-year head coach Chris DeMarco. It still could all come together. New York has been better with Leonie Fiebich in the lineup, and Sabrina Ionescu is finally healthy. But Breanna Stewart needs more from her supporting cast — whether that’s more consistency from former MVP Jonquel Jones or more from the bench.

The Aces have won three titles in the last four seasons, and while they haven’t had a perfect season, A’ja Wilson continues to play some of the best basketball of her career while the championship backcourt of Jackie Young and Chelsea Gray continues to thrive.

New York beat Las Vegas in the Commissioner’s Cup, but that was with Wilson sidelined, so it’s hard to know how much of what worked then would carry over to a postseason matchup. The Aces and Liberty split the other two matchups.

Tentative Prediction: Aces in 3

#3 Golden State Valkyries (21-9) vs #6 Atlanta Dream (18-11)

ATLANTA, GA - JULY 4: Jordin Canada #3 of the Atlanta Dream dribbles the ball during the game against the Golden State Valkyries on July 4, 2026 at Gateway Center Arena at College Park in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Adam Hagy/NBAE via Getty Images)

ATLANTA, GA – JULY 4: Jordin Canada #3 of the Atlanta Dream dribbles the ball during the game against the Golden State Valkyries on July 4, 2026 at Gateway Center Arena at College Park in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Adam Hagy/NBAE via Getty Images)
NBAE via Getty Images

The Valkyries swept their season series against the Dream over the span of a week, beating them three times as part of Atlanta’s season-worst 5-game losing streak. Was that just a bad week at work for the Dream, or a sign of potential trouble to come in a postseason matchup?

Angel Reese has been a revelation for Atlanta, and Rhyne Howard and Allisha Gray were both All-Stars, again. But will they be able to muster up a play style in the playoffs they couldn’t find in the regular season matchup?

Golden State, meanwhile, has been a powerhouse. But will their offensive woes catch up to them in a slowed-down playoff environment? The Valkyries have been elite defensively, but don’t quite have the go-to scoring options that other teams of their caliber do.

Tentative Prediction: Valkyries in 3

#4 Dallas Wings (19-11) vs #5 Indiana Fever (19-11)

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MAY 9: Caitlin Clark #22 of the Indiana Fever drives to the basket during the game against the Dallas Wings on May 9, 2026 at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse inIndianapolis, Indiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Jeff Dean/NBAE via Getty Images)

INDIANAPOLIS, IN – MAY 9: Caitlin Clark #22 of the Indiana Fever drives to the basket during the game against the Dallas Wings on May 9, 2026 at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse inIndianapolis, Indiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Jeff Dean/NBAE via Getty Images)
NBAE via Getty Images

This matchup would feature three of the most electric guards in the league in Caitlin Clark, Paige Bueckers, and Kelsey Mitchell. Plus, No. 1 overall pick Azzi Fudd has had an underrated rookie campaign.

Both the Wings and the Fever have had good seasons, and would make for a star-studded first-round matchup if current standings hold come playoff time. This would be an offensive battle, as both teams have some defensive deficiencies. It will also be the first time Bueckers laces up for playoff action (Clark played two playoff games in her rookie season, but was sidelined in her sophomore campaign).

The Wings and Fever faced off on Opening Day, with the Wings walking away with a 3-point victory. They haven’t faced off since, so it’s anybody’s guess how things would fare come September.

Tentative Prediction: Fever in 3

#Waytooearly #WNBA #playoff #series #matchups #predictions">Way-too-early WNBA playoff series matchups and predictions

If the WNBA playoffs started today, we’d be in store for four riveting first-round series. The league-best Minnesota Lynx would face the surging Washington Mystics. The reigning champions, Las Vegas Aces, would face the New York Liberty. Gabby Williams and the Golden State Valkyries would host Angel Reese and the Atlanta Dream. And Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever would battle Paige Bueckers and the Dallas Wings.

Here’s how the first round would stack up, and my way-too-early predictions for who will emerge victorious.

#1 Minnesota Lynx (25-6) vs #8 Washington Mystics (16-12)

WASHINGTON, DC - JUNE 24: Olivia Miles #5 of the Minnesota Lynx shoots the ball against Shakira Austin #0 of the Washington Mystics during the third quarter at CareFirst Arena on June 24, 2026 in Washington, DC. The Lynx defeated the Mystics 78-76. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON, DC – JUNE 24: Olivia Miles #5 of the Minnesota Lynx shoots the ball against Shakira Austin #0 of the Washington Mystics during the third quarter at CareFirst Arena on June 24, 2026 in Washington, DC. The Lynx defeated the Mystics 78-76. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images)
Getty Images

The Lynx will be heavily favored in this match-up, though the Mystics have won 4 straight and are playing some of their best basketball of the season. Minnesota has been led by Rookie of the Year shoo-in Olivia Miles, as well as a supporting cast that includes Courtney Williams, Kayla McBride, and Natasha Howard.

On top of that, Napheesa Collier is back from double ankle surgeries that sidelined her for most of the season. Minnesota has won 10 straight games and have outscored opponents by an average of 9.3 points per game this season.

The Mystics, therefore, face an uphill climb in the first round. Shakira Austin, Kiki Iriafen, and Sonia Citron have all had big-time seasons, but all three have very limited playoff experience (Austin played two postseason games in 2022, while Iriafen and Citron did not make the playoffs as rookies). Washington will be happy to get playoff experience for their young core, but this is a formidable first-round assignment. The two teams have split their regular season series so far, and both games came down to the wire.

Another fun wrinkle? Former Notre Dame guards Olivia Miles and Sonia Citron would be squaring off.

Tentative Prediction: Lynx in 2

#2 Las Vegas Aces (21-9) vs #7 New York Liberty (18-13)

BROOKLYN, NY - OCTOBER 1: Breanna Stewart #30 of the New York Liberty plays defense on A’ja Wilson #22 of the Las Vegas Aces during Round Two Game Two of the 2024 WNBA Playoffs on October 1, 2024 in Brooklyn, New York. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photo by David Dow/NBAE via Getty Images)

BROOKLYN, NY – OCTOBER 1: Breanna Stewart #30 of the New York Liberty plays defense on A’ja Wilson #22 of the Las Vegas Aces during Round Two Game Two of the 2024 WNBA Playoffs on October 1, 2024 in Brooklyn, New York. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photo by David Dow/NBAE via Getty Images)
NBAE via Getty Images

Few could have projected that the Aces and Liberty would square off in the first round. The two teams faced off in the 2023 Finals, with Las Vegas emerging victorious, and then again in the 2024 Semi-Finals, with New York coming out on top en route to their franchise-first championship.

But New York has had a down year and unexpectedly slipped to the 7th-best record in the league under first-year head coach Chris DeMarco. It still could all come together. New York has been better with Leonie Fiebich in the lineup, and Sabrina Ionescu is finally healthy. But Breanna Stewart needs more from her supporting cast — whether that’s more consistency from former MVP Jonquel Jones or more from the bench.

The Aces have won three titles in the last four seasons, and while they haven’t had a perfect season, A’ja Wilson continues to play some of the best basketball of her career while the championship backcourt of Jackie Young and Chelsea Gray continues to thrive.

New York beat Las Vegas in the Commissioner’s Cup, but that was with Wilson sidelined, so it’s hard to know how much of what worked then would carry over to a postseason matchup. The Aces and Liberty split the other two matchups.

Tentative Prediction: Aces in 3

#3 Golden State Valkyries (21-9) vs #6 Atlanta Dream (18-11)

ATLANTA, GA - JULY 4: Jordin Canada #3 of the Atlanta Dream dribbles the ball during the game against the Golden State Valkyries on July 4, 2026 at Gateway Center Arena at College Park in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Adam Hagy/NBAE via Getty Images)

ATLANTA, GA – JULY 4: Jordin Canada #3 of the Atlanta Dream dribbles the ball during the game against the Golden State Valkyries on July 4, 2026 at Gateway Center Arena at College Park in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Adam Hagy/NBAE via Getty Images)
NBAE via Getty Images

The Valkyries swept their season series against the Dream over the span of a week, beating them three times as part of Atlanta’s season-worst 5-game losing streak. Was that just a bad week at work for the Dream, or a sign of potential trouble to come in a postseason matchup?

Angel Reese has been a revelation for Atlanta, and Rhyne Howard and Allisha Gray were both All-Stars, again. But will they be able to muster up a play style in the playoffs they couldn’t find in the regular season matchup?

Golden State, meanwhile, has been a powerhouse. But will their offensive woes catch up to them in a slowed-down playoff environment? The Valkyries have been elite defensively, but don’t quite have the go-to scoring options that other teams of their caliber do.

Tentative Prediction: Valkyries in 3

#4 Dallas Wings (19-11) vs #5 Indiana Fever (19-11)

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MAY 9: Caitlin Clark #22 of the Indiana Fever drives to the basket during the game against the Dallas Wings on May 9, 2026 at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse inIndianapolis, Indiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Jeff Dean/NBAE via Getty Images)

INDIANAPOLIS, IN – MAY 9: Caitlin Clark #22 of the Indiana Fever drives to the basket during the game against the Dallas Wings on May 9, 2026 at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse inIndianapolis, Indiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Jeff Dean/NBAE via Getty Images)
NBAE via Getty Images

This matchup would feature three of the most electric guards in the league in Caitlin Clark, Paige Bueckers, and Kelsey Mitchell. Plus, No. 1 overall pick Azzi Fudd has had an underrated rookie campaign.

Both the Wings and the Fever have had good seasons, and would make for a star-studded first-round matchup if current standings hold come playoff time. This would be an offensive battle, as both teams have some defensive deficiencies. It will also be the first time Bueckers laces up for playoff action (Clark played two playoff games in her rookie season, but was sidelined in her sophomore campaign).

The Wings and Fever faced off on Opening Day, with the Wings walking away with a 3-point victory. They haven’t faced off since, so it’s anybody’s guess how things would fare come September.

Tentative Prediction: Fever in 3

#Waytooearly #WNBA #playoff #series #matchups #predictions

Mykhailo Mudryk played for Chelsea for the first time in nearly two years on Wednesday but was unable to stop his side falling to a 0-1 friendly defeat to Juventus in Hong Kong.

The Ukrainian winger came on as a substitute for Nicolas Jackson in the 82nd minute, drawing applause from his teammate and loud cheers from thousands of Chelsea fans at Kai Tak Stadium.

Mudryk had not played since November 2024 because of a doping ban, but won permission to resume his football career on Friday after winning an appeal.

Despite a lively cameo on the left side, it was Juventus which took the spoils thanks to a wonderful second-half strike from Kosovo international Edon Zhegrova.

Neither side could find the breakthrough in a drab first half as two experimental line-ups, with Chelsea choosing to leave out Cole Palmer and Levi Colwill, struggled to create clear-cut chances.

Danny Welbeck could have scored a goal on his Chelsea debut but the veteran England striker failed to direct a flicked header on target after 11 minutes.

Juventus came closest a few minutes before half-time when midfielder Jeremie Boga took aim from just outside the penalty area and forced Blues’ goalkeeper Robert Sanchez into a diving save.

Early in the second period, a long ball from Chelsea skipper Moises Caicedo put full-back Marco Palestra in on goal but his tame shot could not beat Mattia Perin.

Juventus finally broke the deadlock with a moment of magic in the 68th minute, Kenan Yildiz squaring for Zhegrova who curled into the top corner from outside the area.

Both sides rang the changes but no number of substitutions gave Chelsea the cutting edge it craved as the game petered out.

Published on Aug 05, 2026

#Chelsea #Juventus #Mudryk #returns #Alonso #suffers #consecutive #losses #Blues #boss">Chelsea vs Juventus: Mudryk returns but Alonso suffers consecutive losses as Blues’ boss  Mykhailo Mudryk played for Chelsea for the first time in nearly two years on Wednesday but was unable to stop his side falling to a 0-1 friendly defeat to Juventus in Hong Kong.The Ukrainian winger came on as a substitute for Nicolas Jackson in the 82nd minute, drawing applause from his teammate and loud cheers from thousands of Chelsea fans at Kai Tak Stadium.Mudryk had not played since November 2024 because of a doping ban, but won permission to resume his football career on Friday after winning an appeal.Despite a lively cameo on the left side, it was Juventus which took the spoils thanks to a wonderful second-half strike from Kosovo international Edon Zhegrova.Neither side could find the breakthrough in a drab first half as two experimental line-ups, with Chelsea choosing to leave out Cole Palmer and Levi Colwill,  struggled to create clear-cut chances.Danny Welbeck could have scored a goal on his Chelsea debut but the veteran England striker failed to direct a flicked header on target after 11 minutes.Juventus came closest a few minutes before half-time when midfielder Jeremie Boga took aim from just outside the penalty area and forced Blues’ goalkeeper Robert Sanchez into a diving save.Early in the second period, a long ball from Chelsea skipper Moises Caicedo put full-back Marco Palestra in on goal but his tame shot could not beat Mattia Perin.Juventus finally broke the deadlock with a moment of magic in the 68th minute, Kenan Yildiz squaring for Zhegrova who curled into the top corner from outside the area.Both sides rang the changes but no number of substitutions gave Chelsea the cutting edge it craved as the game petered out.Published on Aug 05, 2026  #Chelsea #Juventus #Mudryk #returns #Alonso #suffers #consecutive #losses #Blues #boss

Post Comment