McCullum open to England ‘evolution’ but won’t give up control

​ 120-150If he is not “able to steer the ship”, head coach concedes, “maybe there is someone better” for job Read More On

Summary:
England head coach Brendon McCullum says he is open to an “evolution” in how the national team plays but insists he won’t relinquish control over his coaching philosophy and leadership role. McCullum emphasized that while adaptation and innovation are important, he remains committed to his core principles and vision for England’s cricket approach, especially in fast-paced formats like T20 and ODI. His comments underscore a balance between flexibility in tactics and steadfastness in overall strategy as the team prepares for upcoming major tournaments.

Mahboob Khan, Wahidullah Zadran in Afghanistan’s Under-19 World Cup squad

​ 120-150They have been grouped with South Africa, Tanzania, and West Indies at the Under-19 World Cup Read More On

Summary:
Afghanistan has announced its 15-man squad for the 2026 ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup, with Mahboob Khan named captain as the team prepares to compete in Group D alongside South Africa, West Indies and Tanzania. The squad blends promising batting talent with a strong bowling lineup, including 18-year-old off-spinner Wahidullah Zadran, who is highlighted as a key bowler after gaining experience in senior-level tournaments such as the ILT20. Afghanistan secured their World Cup place by winning the Asia Qualifier last year and will begin their campaign in mid-January in Zimbabwe and Namibia.

New-look Giants, Warriorz hope for strong start to new season

​ 120-150Both sides overhauled their squads at the mega auction and will hope to lock in their combinations quickly Read More On

Both Gujarat Giants and UP Warriorz are entering the **2026 Women’s Premier League (WPL) season with refreshed squads and high hopes of a strong start as they prepare to face each other in the opener. Each team overhauled its roster at the recent auction and is looking to lock in combinations quickly to challenge for honours. Warriorz, under new captain Meg Lanning and with a blend of international stars and emerging talent, aim to translate their revamped setup into early momentum, while the Giants, confident after reinforcing their squad and leadership, are also eager to begin the season on a positive note. The early match could set the tone for both campaigns.

Owner of Swiss ski resort held in custody after deadly New Year’s Eve fire

​ 120-150Jacques Moretti is being held as a potential flight risk, Swiss media reports say. Read More On

Summary:
Swiss authorities have taken one of the owners of the Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana into custody following a devastating New Year’s Eve fire that killed 40 people and injured over 100 during celebrations at the popular ski resort venue. Jacques Moretti, a French co-owner of the bar, was detained by prosecutors on suspicions including negligent homicide and related charges and because he was considered a potential flight risk amid the ongoing investigation. The blaze — believed to have been sparked by celebratory sparklers that ignited interior materials — has prompted national mourning and scrutiny of safety inspections after it emerged the venue had not been properly checked for years.

ICC to Bangladesh: play in India or forfeit points

​ 120-150The BCB, though, has claimed no such ultimatum has been relayed to them by the governing body Read More On

Summary:
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has reportedly rejected the Bangladesh Cricket Board’s (BCB) request to relocate their 2026 T20 World Cup matches away from India despite security concerns raised by Bangladesh after tensions related to Mustafizur Rahman’s exclusion from the IPL. In a virtual meeting, the ICC is said to have insisted that Bangladesh must travel to India to play their scheduled games in Kolkata and Mumbai or risk forfeiting points, which would significantly harm their chances in the tournament. However, the BCB has denied receiving an official ultimatum and says it will continue dialogue with the ICC to resolve security issues while prioritising the safety of its team.

Serial winners MI stand between well-rested Vipers and a maiden ILT20 title

​ 120-150An MI franchise – men or women – has never lost a T20 final since 2010, when CSK toppled Mumbai Indians in the IPL Read More On

Five-time champions Mumbai Indians (MI) stand in the way of the Vipers’ bid for a first-ever ILT20 title, setting up a high-stakes final. While MI rely on their vast big-match experience and winning pedigree, the Vipers enter the clash well-rested and confident after a strong playoff run. The showdown pits proven serial winners against a hungry challenger aiming to make history.

Bangladesh look to move T20 World Cup matches from India amid Mustafizur row

​ 120-150BCB cites safety concerns with Sri Lanka a potential alternative host Read More On

Summary:
Amid a growing controversy over the exclusion of Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman from the Indian Premier League (IPL) squad of Kolkata Knight Riders — a move linked to political tensions — the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is considering asking the International Cricket Council (ICC) to relocate its T20 World Cup 2026 matches from India to Sri Lanka. The proposal reflects security and safety concerns for the team before the tournament, where Bangladesh’s group fixtures are currently scheduled in Kolkata and Mumbai. BCB officials are preparing formal communication to the ICC to raise these issues, although immediate changes are not confirmed and ICC has yet to respond.