The Ceylon Indoor Cricket Association (CICA) has announced it will host the Indoor Cricket World Cup 2025, the 12th world cup tournament. The World Indoor Cricket Federation (WICF) awarded the hosting rights after the CICA had conducted a very successful World Masters’ Series 5 months ago. The Indoor Cricket World Cup 2025 will be worked off under the following 4 categories:
According to CICA, teams from Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, India, England, UAE, Singapore, USA and hosts Sri Lanka will be seen in action. The tournament will be held from the 27th of September to the 05th of October 2025, with the games conducted at the Austasia Sports Complex and the newly built U Pro Arena, in Thalawathugoda. Approximately 1000 players, officials & supporters are expected in the country for this prestigious event, with appreciable media coverage made possible in all major nations involved. Apart from being a major sporting event, it will also serve as a popular sports tourism opportunity for the host country at a time the tourism sector in the island nation is witnessing an upward trend in arrivals. Over the last year, there has been much activity relating to International Indoor Cricket in Sri Lanka. The England Asia Cup was followed by the Masters World Series, with the upgraded U Pro, Colombo & Austasia, Thalawathugoda facility producing exciting action on a daily basis. The inaugural edition of the World Cup was held in 1995, in Birmingham, England, with Bristol also hosting one in that country. Australia has witnessed 03 events in Melbourne & Brisbane, with the former being the venue for the last event in 2022. Wellington was the host city when the Indoor Cricket World Cup was held twice in New Zealand. Johannesburg & Gauteng were the cities involved when South Africa acted as the host country on two occasions. Dubai was also a venue once. Colombo is the host city for the 02nd occasion after a lapse of 21 years, bringing Sri Lanka into the limelight of Indoor Cricket World Cup action this year. Australia has won all the world titles in both divisions up to now. In the Men’s category, New Zealand have been runners up on 08 instances, South Africa twice & Sri Lanka once. In the Women’s category, South Africa has been the runner-up 07 times while New Zealand has done so 03 times. (Newswire)
The post Sri Lanka to host 2025 indoor cricket world cup appeared first on Newswire. | ↑ |
West Indies legend Sir Andy Roberts has declared “India can’t get everything”, slamming their perceived “advantage” by playing in Dubai during their ICC Champions Trophy victory. India securing the title with a four-wicket win over New Zealand, playing all of their games in Dubai despite the tournament being hosted by Pakistan. The BCCI’s reasoning behind the move was that the Indian government had refused their cricket team permission to travel to Pakistan, with tensions between the neighbouring countries running high. “Something’s got to give… India can’t get everything,” Roberts said on Mid-Day. “At the Champions Trophy, India did not have to travel at all. How can a team not travel during a tournament? It is not fair, it’s not cricket. “There has to be a level playing field. I know a lot of money comes from India, but cricket ought not to be a one-country sport. “It now looks like a one-nation competition and the playing field is not level.” Roberts went on to say that the “ICC stands for Indian Cricket Board”. “India dictates everything. If tomorrow, India says, ‘listen there should be no no-balls and wides,’ take my word, the ICC will find a way to satisfy India,” he said. Outside of criticism levelled at the BCCI, the Pakistan Cricket Board was also slammed for their failure to send a representative to the final. According to Times of India, Mohsin Naqvi, chairman of the PCB, was unable to attend due to illness, while others also failed to attend. Pakistan legend Shoaib Akhtar took to Twitter with a video to voice his frustrations. India has won the ICC Champions Trophy today but I noticed something strange. Pakistan were the hosts in the tournament but there were no representatives here,” he said. “This is beyond my understanding. Why was there no one to represent us and give the trophy? Please think about it, it’s a world stage but sadly I could not see any PCG members.” (Fox Sports) The post West Indies legend slams BCCI after controversial Champs Trophy final call appeared first on Newswire. | ↑ |
A jury has found former Australian cricketer Stuart MacGill guilty of taking part in the supply of cocaine in Sydney. The 54-year-old faced trial over allegations he participated in the supply of a large commercial quantity of a prohibited drug, over an April 2021 introduction he made between his cocaine dealer and partner’s brother, Marino Sotiropoulos. On the Crown’s case, the introduction amounted to setting up a drug supply because the dealer and Mr Sotiropoulos allegedly went on to organise a $330,000 deal for 1 kilogram of cocaine. A jury in the NSW District Court heard that while MacGill’s involvement was limited to the introduction, the dealer also took part in two other alleged supplies, including one in which he handed over a vacuum-sealed bag of A4 paper instead of cash to Mr Sotiropoulos’s associates. The dealer, referred to during proceedings as “Person A” for legal reasons, gave evidence in closed court and Crown Prosecutor Gabrielle Steedman invited jurors to accept his account, which she said was supported by other records before the court. MacGill pleaded not guilty and his defence lawyers cast doubt on Person A’s credibility, arguing his conduct was deceptive and dishonest in multiple respects. It took the jury about seven hours of deliberations to find MacGill not guilty of the charge of knowingly taking part in the supply of a large commercial quantity of a prohibited drug. But he was found guilty of an alternative charge of knowingly taking part in the supply of a prohibited drug — without the large commercial supply element. MacGill made little reaction in the dock when he learned the verdict and left court without making any comment. MacGill spent hundreds on cocaine weekly Person A’s “rip off” with the fake bag of cash involved an alleged deal worth $660,000 for 2 kilograms of cocaine and was linked to the kidnapping of MacGill, who said he was threatened before being driven to Bringelly by a group of men, stripped, assaulted and held against his will. The ex-cricketer stepped into the witness box in his own defence, denying any facilitation of drug supply and telling jurors his “sole role in this debacle was to introduce Person A with Marino”. MacGill conceded he was a recreational cocaine user — but not an addict — at the time, spending between $400 to $600 a week, occasionally up to $800, on the drug. The Crown alleged MacGill told Person A his brother-in-law could “get good gear”, which he denied during cross-examination. He insisted the introduction, in the car park of his Neutral Bay restaurant Aristotle’s, took mere seconds and was not “setting up anything” nor preceded by him acting as a go-between for negotiations, as alleged by the Crown. The former spinner referred to Mr Sotiropoulos as a “dickhead” and “wannabe” who would constantly “waffle” in the restaurant about drugs and being “hard”. The court heard Person A was not charged over the alleged drug supplies, but he was charged over items found at his granny flat including an unauthorised gun and ammunition, cocaine, 15 phones, three sets of scales, resealable bags and nearly $300,000 in cash. He remains on parole after receiving a 50 per cent discount on his sentence, which was set at three years and three months, with a non-parole period of 20 months. MacGill’s case is expected to return to court in May for sentence proceedings. (ABC) The post Former Aussie cricketer guilty of taking part in the supply of cocaine appeared first on Newswire. | ↑ |
The Bangladesh U19 Team will tour Sri Lanka from April to May this year, Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) announced today. According to the SLC, the Bangladesh team will play a Youth ODI series in Sri Lanka. The SLC further said all matches will be played at the Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium in Hambantota. (Newswire)
The post Bangladesh U19 tour of Sri Lanka : Details announced appeared first on Newswire. | ↑ |
Gateway College Colombo emerged victorious at the Sri Lanka Schools’ Basketball Tournament 2024 – A Division (Boys Under 17), demonstrating their dominance on the court through a series of exceptional performances. Competing against 19 leading schools from across the country, Gateway College showcased outstanding teamwork, skill, and determination to secure the prestigious championship title. The journey to the top began with a string of commanding victories in the first round, as Gateway triumphed over Mahanama College (67-31), S. Thomas’ College, Mt. Lavinia (55-49), St. Sebastian’s College, Moratuwa (64-36), and Loyola College, Negombo (87-63).
At the knockout stages, Gateway advanced to the semi-finals as Colombo International School forfeited their match. In a thrilling semi-final encounter against Royal College Colombo, Gateway displayed remarkable resilience and composure under pressure, securing a hard-fought 57-50 victory to earn a spot in the final.
In the grand finale, Gateway delivered a champion’s performance, exhibiting remarkable skill, teamwork, and defensive solidity to overcome Ananda College, Maradana. With a commanding 68-52 victory, Gateway firmly established itself as the best Under 17 team in the A Division. The team’s stellar performance was further underscored by individual accolades: Ashane Thevarapperuma was named the Most Valuable Player, while Dulain Thevarapperuma received the Best Defensive Player award. Sudam Liyanage of Ananda College was recognized as the Best Offensive Player.
Final Standings:
Gateway College Colombo’s triumph at the Sri Lanka Schools’ Basketball Tournament 2024 is a testament to the school’s dedication to nurturing young talent and fostering a culture of excellence in sports. This latest victory adds to the school’s proud legacy in basketball, continuing their success from last year’s All-Island Under 15 A Division Championship. The team’s achievements have been bolstered under the expert guidance of Head Coach Tharindu Fernando, who has recently been appointed as the National Head Coach for Sri Lanka’s Under 16 team. The post Gateway Triumphs Over Royal and Ananda to Clinch All-Island Basketball Championship appeared first on Newswire. | ↑ |
As Pakistan departed Dubai and New Zealand readied itself for a visit to the Emirates, the absurdity of what is clearly a compromised Champions Trophy came into full view. In a tournament it is hosting, Pakistan’s defence of the Champions Trophy came with a whimper at a venue 2,000km from home against its arch-rival India. New Zealand, which are the third favourites to win the Champions Trophy behind India and Australia, secured a spot in the semifinal of the tournament by beating Bangladesh. They will play India, which was granted the right to play exclusively in Dubai for security reasons, on Sunday there and then return to Pakistan for a semifinal next week. It is entirely possible, based on form, that they will then return to the Middle East to play India in the final of the ICC Champions Trophy hosted by Pakistan … in Dubai. Having started the tournament with a win over Pakistan in Karachi, they defeated Bangladesh in Rawalpindi, which is more than 1,100km away. It is nearly 2,000km to Dubai for the round-robin bout with India. The Kiwis then have to travel that distance back to Pakistan for a semifinal next Wednesday. If they manage to survive for the final, and it is played in Dubai, they will have travelled up to 8,000km from the time the tournament began with two international trips thrown in. And if not New Zealand, it is probable that either Australia and South Africa will also visit Dubai for a sudden-death final after playing the rest of the event around Pakistan. While every pundit agrees it is better for world cricket that India is playing the Champions Trophy, this event will always carry an asterisk as a result. In a chat with another ex-England captain in Mike Atherton, former skipper Nasser Hussain outlined the reasons why India are advantaged in this Champions Trophy. It is not only to do with travel, but also in terms of being able to select a squad certain of the characteristics of the spinning-friendly conditions they will confront in Dubai. “So the best team in the tournament has that advantage,” he said on Sky Sports. “I saw a tweet the other day saying, ‘Pakistan host nation, India home advantage’. And that sort of sums it up. They’re in one place. They’re in one hotel. There is no travel. They are in the one dressing room. They know the pitch. They’ve picked for that pitch. “I think (with) selection, when they selected, they were very smart. They probably knew what Dubai was going to be like. They picked all their spinners. There was a bit of debate … from Indian media saying, ‘What haven’t you gone for the extra seamer? Why all these spinners?’ Well, we’ve seen why. And other sides have not done that. “Pakistan … had one frontline spinner, you could argue. When the injuries came, they should have changed that, and I’ve made that argument. “But all the other sides have to pick for different conditions (in) Karachi, Lahore, Rawalpindi, Dubai, and then they have to travel and adjust to those conditions. So it is an advantage. But … once India refused to come here to Pakistan, what else could happen? “You can’t have a tournament about this without India (or) Pakistan. That’s not going to happen. So it had to be in Dubai, and they sit happily and comfortably there, knowing that they’re going to, you know, probably play six games there, and if they win all those, they’ll win another global tournament.” DOES INDIA RECEIVE PREFERENTIAL TREATMENT IN ICC EVENTS? NOT EVERYONE IS CONVINCED. It is not the first time India have been seen to be favoured in an ICC ODI competition in the past 18 months, but at least in 2023 they were the hosts of the World Cup. There was some grumbling in that tournament that India, which played superbly at home until beaten by Australia in the final, received preferential treatment at home. It may have been perception only, but there is an argument that the hosts received decent breaks between matches and also drew the weakest opponent in the last round of the marathon round-robin stages, which helped with their planning for the event. While India had played the last match in T20 World Cups in 2016, 2021 and 2022, the only time it had happened previously in the post-2000 era in ODI World Cups was 2011. It was also reported by the Mumbai Express that the pitch at Wankhede Stadium prior to a semifinal against New Zealand had the grass shaved from it to make it slower, which prompted condemnation from Fox Cricket expert Michael Vaughan. The concerns about this tournament were raised as far back as January after it was confirmed India would be based in Dubai as a compromise given security reasons. Aside from the history between the two nations, the impact of the 2008 terrorist attack in Mumbai shook India and the world and is a reason for the nation’s reluctance to play in Pakistan. But whether it is fair is another matter. In January The Times of India reported concerns from former Pakistan Test bowler Salim Altaf about the situation. “India is the only team that knows where it will play the semi-finals and the final, while the other teams will only know once the group stage is completed,” he said. “Unlike other teams, India will not go from venue to venue. It will avoid the logistics of travel besides getting similar kinds of pitches and a cricketing environment at one venue. “It is not fair on other teams. It is surprising to me that the other cricket boards did not raise any objections.” English journalist Jonathan Agnew said last weekend that forcing Pakistan to play India in Dubai in a tournament it is hosting made a “farce” of the event. “I feel very uncomfortable about the way that India is being treated at the moment. This is wrong,” he told the ABC. “If you’re going to play international tournaments, you can’t pick and choose where you play and where you’re not going to play. I don’t see how long this can carry on for. It makes a farce of these tournaments.” ADVANTAGE INDIA BUT ROHIT SHARMA AND HIS MEN WILL FACE GREATER CHALLENGES India still have to get the job done and while their depth is incredible, the competition is set to get tougher for the remainder of the Champions Trophy. Atherton, while certain they are advantaged, said it is difficult to quantify how much the short-priced favourites for the Champions Trophy are benefiting from being able to use Dubai as a home away from home in this tournament. “The advantage India has in playing in Dubai, only in Dubai, which seems to me to be a hard to quantify advantage, but an undeniable advantage,” he said on Sky Sports. “They’re playing at just one venue. They don’t have to travel either between venues or, you know, between countries, as a lot of other teams have to do. Therefore the selection can focus on the conditions in Dubai, and obviously they’ll know where they’re playing their semi final as and when they get through to that, that seems to me to be an undeniable advantage. “But, you know, kind of hard to quantify how big, how big an advantage.” (Fox Sports) The post ‘This is wrong’: Cricket world debates India’s ‘huge advantage’ in Champions Trophy appeared first on Newswire. | ↑ |
Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) imposed a fine of US$ 10,000 on Dasun Shanaka for breaching the terms of the player contract he entered into with SLC. The decision follows an incident where Shanaka, after playing for his domestic club in the ongoing Major Club Three-Day Tournament, withdrew early due to an injury. This is following the player submitting a medical certificate, which recommended Shanaka to rest, and hence he did not take part in the remainder of the match. However, on the same evening, he travelled to Dubai and participated in a franchise league match. This action was deemed a breach of several contractual clauses that require players to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and commitment to Sri Lanka Cricket. During the inquiry, Shanaka acknowledged his actions and expressed regret for any inconvenience caused. He also clarified that he did not act with dishonest intent and assured SLC that he would exercise better judgment in the future. Sri Lanka Cricket remains committed to maintaining the highest ethical and professional standards and will continue to take necessary measures to uphold the integrity of the game. (SLC) The post Dasun’s fine : Official SLC statement appeared first on Newswire. | ↑ |
Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has imposed a fine of US$ 10,000 on former cricket captain Dasun Shanaka for breaching contractual obligations. Imposing the fine, the SLC states that Dasun Shanaka had requested three days’ leave citing an injury sustained during a domestic match played on 02 February 2025, but had during that period participated in a foreign franchise league match in Dubai. Stating that it had taken into consideration the cricketer’s written response and apology, the SLC said, however, that the Executive Committee has determined that Dasun Shanaka’s actions constitute a breach of contractual obligations. As such, the SLC Executive Committee has decided to impose a fine of US$ 10,000 as a disciplinary measure and has instructed the cricketer to settle the fine on or before 28 February 2025. The SLC has also warned Dasun Shanaka that a failure to comply may result in further disciplinary action. Former Sri Lanka skipper Dasun Shanaka reportedly suffered a neck injury while playing in Sri Lanka in February. At the time, it was reported that the match referee had been informed that Shanaka, playing for the Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC), had suffered an injury during the game against Moors Sports Club. SSC sources stated that Shanaka does not regularly play red-ball cricket but voluntarily joined the match as SSC was facing relegation and had left the game only after receiving a medical report advising him to rest. Later that evening, he travelled to Dubai, expecting to be available for the International League T20 (ILT20) according to his contract. However, since he felt fit to play, he underwent a final medical assessment on the same night and was cleared to take the field for Dubai Capitals later that day. However, his participation came under fire after it was revealed that he left a Premier League Tier A match of the SSC before its completion. With conflicting reports about his injury status and departure from the SSC match, SLC conducted an inquiry to determine whether all protocols were properly followed or if any rules were violated. (Newswire) The post 10,000 USD fine for Dasun Shanaka from SLC appeared first on Newswire. | ↑ |
The Royal College Pool was buzzing with excitement on the 8th of February 2025. The papare bands were playing, the DJ was belting out tunes, the stalls outside were packed and the crowd were on their feet, making for an unforgettable day out at Reid Avenue. Apart from the several matches being played ranging from the u9s all the way to the u17s, there were two back to back nail-biting finales in the eagerly anticipated RCUAC Challenge Shield Water polo Tournament. The tournament organized by the Royal College Union Aquatic Club (RCUAC) is synonymous with providing opportunity to uncover young talent and has kept pushing boundaries to emphasize the “Love of the Game”. The boys U17 final was a close encounter between arch rivals St. Thomas’ College and Royal College even going into overtime. Ultimately it was Royal College who emerged champions with the final goal count being 12 goals to 11. It certainly indicates that the Thomian outfit this year is one to be contended with due to the efforts of Michael Goonaratne and Dinuk Wickramasighe. They have clearly marked their intentions of putting Royal College to the sword come the all important Dr. R.L. Hayman Trophy later in the year.
 The Girls U17 final played between Ladies’ College and Vishaka Vidyalaya had all spectators and players at the edge of their seats throughout the 4 quarters, only to be decided in the last quarter by a 2 goal difference in favor of Ladies’ College. The two Water polo power houses were in full swing throughout the day showing plenty of skill in the pool. Ramiru Aluthge of Royal College and Anya Dias of Ladies’ College were recognized as best performers in their age category in the finals. RESULTS – Champions Boys U9 – Royal College Girls U9 – Visakha Vidyalaya The Mighty Mini Club and the Royal Enfield Club had cars and bikes on display during the day making it an exciting experience center just outside the pool premises. The hairstyling truck provided by Unilever was a hit with all the girls school teams as they made their way straight to it for hair care and styling options with Sunsilk after a full day in the pool and sun.
 Sri Lanka Water polo has seen a huge improvement in numbers with this tournament bringing in 450+ athletes represented in 34 teams. The tournament format is designed to give opportunity to all teams and for the best 2 teams to enter into a final under a full capacity crowd creating that big match feeling for every player, coach, parent and spectator at the venue. The tournament director Mr Ulfath Uwais has made significant strides to this fledging tournament which started in 2022 after taking over from Mr Shan Lakshitha, making it the best in Sri Lanka. The Under 9 awards were presented by Sri Lanka’s talented Bathiya and Santhush. Their presence no doubt inspired many more teams in the future to compete for the top junior accolades in Water polo. Sri Lanka Swimming Olympians, Matthew and Kyle Abeysinghe were on hand to present under 11 awards. The swimming stars made quite an impact in bringing the aquatic family together at the RCUAC Challenge Shield.
 This year’s tournament was conducted under a social theme and partnered with the Rotaract Club Colombo Uptown (RCCU) to bring awareness to their project “Spectra” to support Down Syndrome and Autism. This is in aid to establish a cognitive Wellness Centre at the UFCM tower, Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo. The RCUAC was happy to work with RCCU on their efforts to create a better Sri Lanka. The sponsors supporting the event were Norfolk Foods, Royal College Batch of 2003, John Keels Office Automation, Fonterra, LOLC Finance, Hemas, Jetwing Hotels, George Stewart, Baraka, SLIC, Unilever, Bubbleatte, Red FM, Quadrangle, thepapare, MURC Live, Royal College Photographic Society, Royal College Doctor Association (RCDA) and Chocolatte. Special thank you to the LEO Club of Royal College for all their efforts in making this a successful tournament.
 The post RCUAC Challenge Shield – “ For the Love of the Game” appeared first on Newswire. | ↑ |
Australia’s Matt Kuhnemann, who took 16 wickets in the recent Test win against Sri Lanka in Galle, has been reported for a suspect bowling action. According to Code Sports, Kuhnemann’s action was questioned during his impressive outings, which will now force him to undergo a mandatory bowling action analysis test within three weeks. The incident marks the first time the Queensland bowler’s action has come under scrutiny since his professional debut in 2017. “The Australian team was notified of the match officials’ referral following the second Test against Sri Lanka in Galle and will support Matt through the process of clearing this matter,” Cricket Australia spokesperson said. (Newswire)
The post Sri Lanka Tests : Key Aussie bowler reported for suspect bowling action appeared first on Newswire. | ↑ |
The RCUAC Challenge Shield. the most anticipated Junior Water polo tournament in Sri Lanka will take place at the Royal College pool on Saturday the 8th of February 2025 with almost 50 teams from 15 leading schools in the island nation competing for the coveted Shield.
The tournament was initiated by the Royal College Union Aquatic Club (RCUAC) under the theme “For the Love of the Game” and is now a platform to promote Water polo to younger athletes. Event Details:
Participants:
Participating Teams (15):
Referees for the Tournament.
Event Highlights:
Event Amplifiers:
The sponsors supporting the event are Norfolk Foods, Royal College Batch of 2003, John Keels Office Automation, Fonterra, Red FM, Quadrangle, thepapare, MURC Live, Royal College Photographic society, Lanka Hospitals and Jetwing Hotels.
The 2025 edition of the RCUAC Challenge Shield is set to be bigger than the last and promises exciting match ups and entertainment through the day. The Masters game played between arch Rivals Royal College and S. Thomas’ College truly embodies the spirit of the theme, rekindling old friendships and rivalries that stand the test of time. For further details please contact the Tournament Director Mr. Ulfath Uwais and Teams Liasson Officer Mr Mishan Kottearachchi from RCUAC on rcuac@rcu.lk.
The post “For the Love of the Game” – RCUAC Challenge Shield appeared first on Newswire. | ↑ |
Virat Kohli’s return to the Ranji Trophy ended quickly, scoring six runs before being dismissed by Himanshu Sangwan. The match against Railways saw a stadium packed with eager fans, yet faded hopes as Delhi lagged at 87/3
The post WATCH : Virat Kohli fails in domestic cricket return appeared first on Newswire. | ↑ |
As part of the ongoing Warne-Murali Test Series, a special Legacy Board featuring the images of spin legends Shane Warne and Muttiah Muralitharan has been placed at the entrance of the Galle International Cricket Stadium. This initiative honours the extraordinary achievements of the two greatest spinners in cricket history, allowing fans to pay tribute by adding their signatures on the board. Farveez Maharoof, former Sri Lanka all-rounder, currently serving as an international commentator for the series, was the first to place his signature on the board. The Warne-Murali Legacy Board will remain on display throughout the series, inviting cricket enthusiasts to leave their mark in celebration of these two iconic players. (Newswire) The post Warne-Murali Legacy Board unveiled at Galle International Stadium appeared first on Newswire. | ↑ |
Sri Lanka’s star female cricketer Chamari Athapaththu has been named in the ICC Women’s ODI Team of the Year 2024. Describing Chamari Athapaththu, the ICC states; 458 runs and 9 wickets in 9 matches Chamari Athapaththu had a delayed start to her ODI year, playing her first match in April, but she wasted no time making an impact. She struck a half-century in the second ODI against South Africa before producing a career-best knock of 195* in the final match. Her outstanding form carried into Sri Lanka’s home series against West Indies, where the team secured a 3-0 clean sweep. Athapaththu played a pivotal role, smashing a brilliant 91 in the final ODI, narrowly missing out on a century by just nine runs. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka’s Kamindu Mendis has been included in the ICC Men’s Test Team of the Year 2024. Kamindu Mendis is the only Sri Lankan cricketer to be named in the Men’s team. Describing the cricketer, the ICC states; Kamindu Mendis made a triumphant return to Test cricket in 2024 after nearly a two-year hiatus, ensuring his place in the team with a series of stellar performances. His remarkable year began with a tour of Bangladesh, where he scored centuries in both innings in Sylhet. He followed this up with an unbeaten 92* in the second match, finishing as the series’ top scorer with 367 runs. (Newswire)
The post Chamari and Kamindu in ICC’s teams for 2024 appeared first on Newswire. | ↑ |
Football Sri Lanka has roped in another player of Sri Lankan descent ahead of the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. According to the Football Federation of Sri Lanka (FFSL), Jeremy Perera from Germany has been welcomed to the national squad. Jeremy Perera, a prominent attacking midfielder from the German League, joined the Sri Lanka National team pool yesterday. Jeremy Perera, who resides in Germany with his Sri Lankan parents, met with FFSL President Jaswar Umar to officially join the squad. The Sri Lanka National team is strengthening its lineup ahead of the AFC Asian Cup final round kicking off from March 2025. Asian qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup will see the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) put eight teams directly into the 2026 World Cup, with a ninth team going to the inter-confederation playoffs in hopes of making the tournament. (Newswire) The post SL Football ropes in German player of Sri Lankan descent appeared first on Newswire. | ↑ |
Cricket Australia has reportedly requested Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) to amend the tour’s upcoming schedule, increasing the One Day International (ODI) matches. It is reported that Australia, which was initially scheduled to play one ODI against Sri Lanka, has requested an additional match. The request has been made for the preparation of the upcoming World Champions Trophy. If all arrangements are confirmed, then the tour will see Australia and Sri Lanka playing 02 ODI matches. Per the earlier schedule, only one ODI match had been planned to be played in Hambantota. However, if the relevant changes are made, both ODIs are likely to be played as day matches in Colombo. Even though no certain details have been revealed on the matter, Sri Lanka Cricket sources say a final decision on the matter will be taken in the next two days. Despite changes being requested to the ODI matches, the Test match schedule will remain unchanged. (Newswire) The post Australia to play more ODIs in Sri Lanka? appeared first on Newswire. | ↑ |
Ahead of the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers, the Football Federation of Sri Lanka (FFSL) has strengthened its team by adding three prominent players of Sri Lankan descent from the global pool. All three players met with FFSL President Jaswar Umar yesterday at the Football House. The new additions are :
Furthermore, Football Sri Lanka has announced the schedule for the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers set to kick off in March this year. According to Football Sri Lanka, the national team will engage in six matches, with three to be played in Sri Lanka. Asian qualifying for the 2026 World Cup will see the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) put eight teams directly into the 2026 World Cup, with a ninth team going to the inter-confederation playoffs in hopes of making the tournament. (Newswire)
The post 3 more Sri Lanka-descent players join SL football appeared first on Newswire. | ↑ |
A “star culture” within the Indian team coupled with selectors who were unwilling to move on senior players caused India to surrender the Border Gavaskar Trophy, according to former greats and the Indian media. In the aftermath of Australia’s six-wicket win at the SCG to clinch a 3-1 series victory on Sunday, Indian legend Sunil Gavaskar expressed his strong belief, in a report by the Hindustan Times, that the BCCI must reassess the way it manages the Indian players. Gavaskar, who scored more than 10,000 Test runs, is adamant that not all members of the Indian squad for the tour of Australia are fully committed to the team, and that the BCCI are not being strong enough on them. “I think the next 8–10 days are crucial for Indian cricket to take a good, honest look at itself. Most importantly, the star culture has to end. Total commitment to Indian cricket is non-negotiable. Players must make themselves available every single time unless there’s a genuine medical emergency. If someone isn’t fully committed, they shouldn’t be considered for selection,“ Gavaskar said. Gavaskar’s comments point the finger squarely at veteran batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, whose international futures remain clouded. Sharma, who was alleged rested for the Sydney Test but in reality was dropped after scoring 31 runs at an average of 6.20, missed the first Test of the series in Perth due to the birth of his second child. Kohli missed the entirety of India’s five-Test home series against England last year for the same reason, and four summers ago he went home from Australia after the first Test of the series for the birth of his first child. But the man who shares naming honours of the trophy Australia and India vie for with Allan Border, argues that national duty should trump family commitments. “We don’t need players who are partly here and partly elsewhere. It’s time to stop pampering anyone,” Gavaskar added. “The recent results have been disappointing — we should have been in the World Test Championship final but didn’t make it. “The cricket board needs to stop acting like admirers and put their foot down. They must tell the players that Indian cricket comes first. It’s either a full commitment to Indian cricket or other priorities — you can’t have it both ways. If Indian cricket is your priority, only then should you be selected.” Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan shares Gavaskar’s concerns about the team culture. Pathan, who opened the batting and the bowling in a Test against Australia at the Adelaide Oval in 2008, also questioned Kohli’s place in the side, and highlighted the 36-year-old’s reluctance to feature in Indian domestic cricket, in a report in The Deccan Herald. “We need to end superstar culture, we need team culture. You need to improve yourself and improve the Indian team. There were matches before this series, too, and they had an opportunity to play domestic cricket, but they didn’t. We need to change that culture,” Pathan said. “When was the last time Virat Kohli played domestic cricket? It has been more than a decade. “For the Indian team in 2024, in the first innings where you basically set up the match, Virat Kohli’s average is 15. And if you consider his average over the last five years, it’s not even 30. “Does the Indian team deserve its senior player? Instead, give a youngster a chance. Tell him to get ready. He will also give an average of 25–30. This is about the team, not the individuals. “When we talk about Virat Kohli, he has done a lot for India. He has delivered many performances. But you are getting out from the same mistake again and again. “You are not creating a gap between two mistakes. You are not trying to fix the technical mistake.” Despite scoring an unbeaten century in the second innings in Perth, Kohli only mustered 190 runs for the series. The right-hander was caught behind the wicket in all eight of his dismissals, four of which came off the bowling of Scott Boland, as he repeatedly poked at balls around a fifth or sixth stump line. With Sharma dropped and player-of-the-series Jasprit Bumrah off the field injured during Australia’s run chase, Kohli tried his best to marshal the troops and The Indian Express’ Sriram Veera wrote that it arguably was the former captain’s best moment of the series. “Unfortunately, the key men of Indian team’s best performances seem to have come in front of the microphone, it has to be said. Or in a team huddle,” Veera wrote. “Virat Kohli, the acting captain over the weekend in the absence of the injured Bumrah, tried his best to inspire his bowling and fielding unit, but failed at his job as a batsman, through the series, barring that ton in second-innings at Perth. Anything outside off, be it from back of length or full and wide, proved a kryptonite. “We don’t know what he has told the players inside the dressing room, but one of the best lines from the head coach Gautam Gambhir came in the post-series press conference. “Ultimately, it’s neither my team nor your team, it’s the nation’s team. I believe that, as I said, there are very honest players in our dressing room who know how hungry they are and whether the team can move forward with their contribution. But yes, as far as my question is concerned, my biggest responsibility is that I have to be fair to everyone in the team. Not only one or two individuals.” “If he can walk that talk, and there is nothing to doubt that he won’t, as yet, he has a couple of tough decisions to make involving Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma.” Those decisions may not come for some time as India’s next red-ball assignment does not arrive until June 20, when their five-Test series in England begins at Headingley. Or they may not come from Gambhir at all as he hinted in his post-series press conference that they will be left to make retirements calls themselves, while he also backed them to turn their form around if they do continue at Test level, in a report by The New Indian Express. “They are tough people with hunger; they’ll decide what is best for Indian cricket,” Gambhir said. “They still have the hunger, they still have the passion, they’re tough people, and hopefully, they can continue to take Indian cricket forward. “Ultimately, whatever they plan, they will plan in the best interest of Indian cricket. Every individual knows where their game and hunger is. That is the most important thing for any sport and any profession.” With such a lengthy gap before India’s next Test match, Gambhir did also express his desire to see more of his players taking part in domestic cricket to sharpen their game at the level below when the Ranji Trophy begins later this month. “I would always like everyone to play domestic cricket. That is how much importance domestic cricket needs to be given. Not only one game, but if they are available and have the commitment to play red-ball cricket, everyone should play domestic cricket,” he said. “It’s as simple as it can get. If you don’t give importance to domestic cricket, you will never get the desired players that you want in Test cricket.” (Fox Sports) The post “Does the Indian team deserve this from a senior player?” Kohli slammed appeared first on Newswire. | ↑ |
The BLACKCAPS sold-out summer looks set to continue with less than 500 tickets remaining for Sunday’s opening ODI against Sri Lanka at the Cello Basin Reserve in Wellington. That’s despite the venue’s capacity being increased by 400 seats to 6800, up from the usual 6400 capacity for Test matches. Sunday’s Chemist Warehouse ODI series opener is the BLACKCAPS’ first 50-over international at the Basin in almost four years, with gates set to open at 9:30 am for the 11.00 am start. The last BLACKCAPS ODI at the Basin was a 164-run victory over Bangladesh in March 2021, a match that featured a maiden international century for Daryl Mitchell in his third ODI. Strong crowd support has been a feature of this BLACKCAPS home summer so far with all three T20Is against Sri Lanka sold out in advance, following on from full houses for the England Test series. (NZC) The post SL vs NZ First ODI heading for a sell-out appeared first on Newswire. | ↑ |
Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has announced that Niroshan Dickwella has been granted permission to resume playing cricket across all formats with immediate effect. Issuing a statement, the SLC said this follows the decision by the Sri Lanka Anti-Doping Agency (SLADA) to reduce Dickwella’s 3-year ban to 3 months. However, the latest decision by the agency to reduce the time period of his sanction comes following an appeal made by the player, supported by relevant evidence, which has confirmed Dickwella has not consumed any banned substances during the “competition period” and that the identified substance was unrelated to “enhancing sports performance.” The SLC said in light of this clearance, Niroshan Dickwella is now eligible to participate in all competitions conducted by the cricket administration. (Newswire) The post SLC lifts ban of Dickwella, explains why appeared first on Newswire. | ↑ |
