Latest news with #WPL
Hindustan Times
2 days ago
- Sport
- Hindustan Times
Have matured as a player, value my wicket more: Shafali Verma
Chandigarh: For Shafali Verma, life has come full-circle. Six years ago, the 15-year-old Rohtak batter broke Sachin Tendulkar's record becoming the youngest Indian to score a half-century in international cricket. A blazing start to the career, dominating world-class bowlers, captaining India to a maiden ICC U-19 World Cup, Shafali was all geared up to build on it when a form dip saw her dropped and return to domestic cricket. Shafali Verma. (PTI) Shafali has returned to the T20I squad – she last played for India in October – after her show in the Women's Premier League (WPL) where she was the fourth highest run-getter playing for Delhi Capitals. Though not in the ODI squad for the England tour starting on June 28, the 21-year-old is keen to make it count in the T20Is, as she says in this chat. Excerpts How does it feel to come back into the India T20I team for the five-match series against England? It feels great and there is a sense of relief too. I worked really hard for this. The coaches and the senior players, including captain Harry didi (Harmanpreet Kaur), have been supportive and backed me. I have played in England before and enjoyed playing on those pitches. England is a strong team with top cricketers. We are a well-prepared side and the contests should be thrilling. I'm looking to make the most of the opportunity. Though T20 is the shortest format, I'm looking to play maximum overs in each game and leave an impact. Since your India debut at 15, how has your batting style changed? How have you learnt to overcome disappointments? At the start, I was carefree and hit every ball I faced. I enjoyed dominating the bowlers, going for big shots. I have matured as a cricketer and value my wicket more. I want to contribute in every game so that my team benefits. I won't say my style has changed much, but yes, I will be defensive too and give respect to good bowlers, England have good bowlers like Nat Sciver-Brunt and Sophie Ecclestone. So, I won't just throw my wicket. In a sport there will be ups and downs. I too have faced failures and disappointments but I have learnt from them. Hard work and passion to play for India has kept me going. How has Women's Premier League, playing for Delhi Capitals, helped you in the last three seasons? The beautiful thing about WPL is that we are able to share the dressing room with the best in the sport. This definitely helps hone your skills. DC captain Meg Lanning has been instrumental in making me a better cricketer, not only skill-wise but mentally as well. All three seasons have made me better and all credit goes to Meg. I learnt a lot from her – how an ideal captain should be. When I captain any side, I try to pick on those qualities and also be there for my team mates. You made your India debut at 15, dominated as an attacking opener, captained India to the U-19 World Cup win, and then were dropped last October. How would you describe your journey? Getting to represent your country is a dream come true. I was just playing my brand of cricket, not thinking if I was making an impact with my abilities or not. It was wonderful to hit big shots and help India win matches. Winning the U-19 World Cup was another dream come true experience. Being dropped from the team was heart-breaking but I had a great support system that pushed me and backed me to score in domestic matches along with WPL performances. My international cricket journey started when I was a schoolgirl. I have fought through disappointments and turned them into rewards with hard work. I now look forward to playing big knocks for India and showing my positive intent. How were your last few days at the National Cricket Academy with the team? It was a skill-based camp. I have waited for my comeback. It was great working with the trainers and coaches. I worked really hard on my fitness. At international level, fitness has to be top-notch and I realise that. It was wonderful to be back with the team mates and get into the groove. India co-host the ODI Women's World Cup with Sri Lanka in September-October. Pratika Rawal has taken your opener's spot in the team. How do you see your chances for the World Cup? It is a matter of pride that India is hosting. I'm sure India will do well, make use of home advantage. At the moment my job is to do well in the T20Is in England. I hope to leave an impression and then it is left to the selectors. Did you enjoy playing for Haryana and other teams in domestic cricket while away from the Indian team? I take huge pride in playing for Haryana. I was down losing my place in the India team but knew I had to do well for Haryana, score runs and show my captaincy skills as well. I got time to work on my mental strength also. I could spend time with friends and family which recharged me.
NDTV
4 days ago
- Sport
- NDTV
Brisbane Heat Retain Jemimah Rodrigues In Women's Big Bash League International Players Draft
Indian batter Jemimah Rodrigues will return to the Women's Big Bash League (WBBL) for the second season after she was claimed by Brisbane Heat in the first round of the WBBL international player draft on Thursday. After the Melbourne Stars used their third pick to make a play for the star Indian batter, Heat utilised their retention pick to secure Jemimah for a further season. "Indian superstar Jemimah Rodrigues will return to the Weber Women's Big Bash League for the second season in a row as she strives to lift the Brisbane Heat to the title this summer," the Brisbane Heat said in a statement. The right-hander was a stand-out for the Heat last summer as they won six matches in a row to make the WBBL final for the second time in as many seasons. The 24-year-old was the club's second-leading scorer for the season, hitting 267 runs at a strike rate of 139.06, with the Heat finishing as runners-up to the Melbourne Renegades. The top-order batter expressed her delight in returning to the Heat in a message to WBBL fans, saying, "I'm super, super, super excited to be rejoining you all back in Brisbane." Rodrigues is coming off a career-high last month, hitting her highest One-day International (ODI) score of 123 against Sri Lanka. She and Brisbane Heat captain Jess Jonassen played together for the Delhi Capitals in this year's Women's Premier League (WPL) in India where Delhi Capitals went close to snatching the title only to lose to Mumbai Indians in the decider. The Heat also drafted West Indian allrounder Chinelle Henry with their third-round pick after passing on their second-round pick. The 29-year-old right-hand bat and right-arm medium pacer equalled the record for the fastest fifty in the tournament, scoring an 18-ball half-century. She finished the tournament with a league-leading strike rate of 196. South African allrounder Nadine de Klerk was drafted in the fourth round, having previously signed a multi-year deal last season to tie her to Brisbane for WBBL 11. The addition of Rodrigues and Henry takes Brisbane's roster to 11 players, with four players left to announce. One of those four remaining recruits will be a signing that will take place after the T20 Spring Challenge, which will function as a lead-in competition for the WBBL. WBBL Brisbane Heat squad for WBBL 11 (to date): Jess Jonassen, Nadine de Klerk (South Africa), Chinelle Henry (West Indies), Sianna Ginger, Lucy Hamilton, Nicola Hancock, Grace Harris, Charli Knott, Grace Parsons, Georgia Redmayne, Jemimah Rodrigues (India).
India.com
5 days ago
- Sport
- India.com
Not Virat Kohli Or Rohit Sharma: Meet THESE 5 Indian Cricketers Leading The World In ICC Rankings
photoDetails english 2917866 Updated:Jun 18, 2025, 04:33 PM IST Hardik Pandya – Men's T20I All-Rounder No. 1 1 / 10 Hardik Pandya currently leads the ICC T20I all-rounder rankings with consistent performances. He has been India's go-to player in pressure moments, contributing both with the bat and ball. Leadership & Big Match Impact 2 / 10 He played a key role in India's T20 World Cup campaign, especially with 144 runs and 11 wickets. As vice-captain, his strategic inputs and calmness under pressure have stood out. Ravindra Jadeja – Men's Test All-Rounder No. 1 3 / 10 Jadeja is the No. 1-ranked Test all-rounder, holding the top spot with 400 ICC rating points. He has dominated the position for over 1,100 days, the longest ever in ICC Test history. Multi-Format Veteran 4 / 10 Jadeja has scored over 7,500 runs and taken 550+ wickets in first-class cricket. He's known for game-changing spells and gritty batting in tough conditions. Also a brilliant fielder, Jadeja remains one of India's most complete cricketers ever. Jasprit Bumrah – Men's Test Bowling No. 1 5 / 10 Bumrah is the No. 1-ranked Test bowler with an ICC rating over 900 points. His unique action, late swing, and pinpoint accuracy make him lethal in all conditions. He has outperformed legends like Pat Cummins and Kagiso Rabada this year. ICC Tournament Hero 6 / 10 He was the top wicket-taker in the 2024 T20 World Cup with 15 wickets. Bumrah was also named Player of the Tournament for his dominance. He is the only Indian bowler to be ranked No. 1 in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is. Shubman Gill – Men's ODI Batting No. 1 7 / 10 Gill tops the ICC ODI batting rankings, ahead of big names like Babar and Rohit. He became the fastest player to reach 2,000 ODI runs in just 38 innings. Captaincy and Big Knocks 8 / 10 Gill led India to a 3–0 series win in Zimbabwe, showing early leadership promise. He also delivered match-winning hundreds in the Asia Cup and the Champions Trophy. At just 25, he's seen as India's long-term star in the ODI format. Smriti Mandhana – Women's ODI Batting No. 1 9 / 10 Smriti holds the No. 1 rank in women's ODI batting with a strong rating. She has outshone stars like Laura Wolvaardt and Chamari Athapaththu. Her stylish strokeplay and composure have made her a global name. Experience & Elegance 10 / 10 She's represented India in nearly 100 ODIs and averages over 43. Mandhana has multiple ICC award nominations and WPL success under her belt. Her leadership, consistency, and flair make her the face of Indian women's cricket.
India.com
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- India.com
Who Is Smriti Mandhana's Boyfriend? Meet Palash Muchhal And Know Their Full Love Story
photoDetails english 2917567 Indian cricket star Smriti Mandhana is in a long-term relationship with Bollywood music composer and director Palash Muchhal, brother of singer Palak Muchhal. The couple recently celebrated five years together, with Palash publicly expressing his love on her birthday. Their relationship began with a romantic proposal, and Palash is often seen supporting Smriti at her matches. While Smriti is a record-breaking cricketer and the most expensive WPL player, Palash has composed over 40 songs and directed multiple projects. Together, their combined net worth exceeds ₹70 crore, making them one of the most admired power couples in Indian sports and entertainment. Updated:Jun 18, 2025, 09:11 AM IST 1. Smriti Mandhana's Boyfriend Is Palash Muchhal, A Bollywood Music Prodigy 1 / 20 Smriti Mandhana is dating Palash Muchhal, a seasoned Bollywood music composer and filmmaker, known for hits like Tu Hi Hai Aashiqui and Party Toh Banti Hai. 2. The Couple Celebrated 5 Years of Togetherness in 2024 2 / 20 The cricket-music duo marked their fifth anniversary with a romantic cake-cutting, shared on Instagram with the hashtag #5, melting hearts across social media. 3. Smriti's 28th Birthday Was a Starry Affair With Palash by Her Side 3 / 20 On July 18, 2024, Palash posted a heartfelt message, 'You mean everything to me,' showing just how deep and public their love has grown. 4. Palash Is Not Just a Composer, He's a Director and Actor Too 4 / 20 Palash has worked in films like Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey and directed Kaam Chalu Hai, proving he's a multi-talented artist with a strong entertainment legacy. 5. He Proposed With a Song — Bollywood Style 5 / 20 Reports reveal Palash proposed to Smriti in front of his sister Palak, dedicating a custom romantic song—straight out of a Bollywood love story. 6. Palash Regularly Attends Smriti's Matches and Cheers Her On 6 / 20 From cricket stadiums to cozy celebrations, Palash is often seen supporting Smriti, making their bond a blend of passion and partnership. 7. Their Combined Net Worth Crosses ₹70 Crore 7 / 20 Palash's net worth ranges between ₹20–41 crore, while Smriti Mandhana, the highest-paid WPL player, is valued at ₹33.29 crore, making them a true power couple. 8. Smriti Mandhana Is a Record-Breaking Cricketer 8 / 20 She holds the record for most 50+ scores in Women's T20Is and is praised for her consistent centuries, especially during India's win over West Indies. 9. Social Media Fans Adore Their Off-Field Chemistry 9 / 20 With viral birthday posts and concert dedications, their Instagram-worthy love story continues to charm cricket and Bollywood fans alike. 10. Search for 'Smriti Mandhana BF' Is Trending — Here's Why 10 / 20 As Mandhana breaks records on the field, curiosity about her boyfriend Palash Muchhal's background continues to trend, fueling interest in their dreamy romance. 11 / 20 12 / 20 13 / 20 14 / 20 15 / 20 16 / 20 17 / 20 18 / 20 19 / 20 20 / 20
United News of India
6 days ago
- Business
- United News of India
World Padel League gears up for its third season with two new franchises
Mumbai, June 17 (UNI) The World Padel League (WPL), licensed and managed by Iconik Sports and Events Ltd., on Tuesday announced the return of its much-anticipated third season. The league, supported by Indian Padel Federation, is set to take place between August 12-16 at the Nesco Center here, promising fans world-class padel action. In the upcoming season, WPL is set to grow from four franchises to six, with two new teams joining the mix. The addition of the new teams is a testament to the growth and popularity of padel in India, and the continued success of WPL in its debut year in the country. In the past year, India has witnessed over 2x growth in padel participation and infrastructure development, signalling the country's growing appetite for the sport. With the successful conclusion of the previous season in February 2025, which saw 32 international players battle it out for the trophy, the stage is now set for an even more exciting third edition. The upcoming season promises five days of action-packed matches in the heart of Mumbai, featuring top global padel players - a treat and massive opportunity for the Indian padel community. Expressing excitement for the upcoming season, Hemali Sharma, Co-Founder, World Padel League said, 'The growth of padel in India has been a journey to watch out for. Just six months since our last edition, Season 3 of the WPL marks a major milestone as we expand the scale of competition and set new benchmarks for the sport. India is fast emerging as a high-potential growth hub for padel. Our ambition goes beyond fostering the sport as we aim to craft a dynamic, world-class sporting experience that captivates seasoned fans and first-time audiences alike.' Commenting on the league, Krishnan Kannan, Promoter, Iconik Sports and Events Ltd. added, 'When we decided to bring WPL for the Indian audiences early this year, our aim was to scale the league and bring world class action tailored for this rapidly expanding market. With new teams and an extended player roster, Season 3 of the World Padel League is a celebration of the sport's incredible progress and a glimpse of where it's headed. The energy this season is electric, and the journey has just started.' Sneha Abraham Sehgal, President, Indian Padel Federation added, 'The World Padel League has played a crucial role in elevating padel's visibility in India. With a growing ecosystem of players, clubs, and infrastructure investments, the country is poised to become a key padel destination in the region. Initiatives like the WPL blend international talent with local engagement, giving budding players the encouragement to elevate their game at par with global standards. We are happy to extend our continued support to the league.' Held at the Nesco Center, the last edition delivered edge-of-the-seat action and culminated with the SG Pipers Cheetahs clinching the title by defeating the Vernost Jaguars in a thrilling final. With two new teams joining the fray, Season 3 promises a dynamic fusion of world-class sport and high-voltage entertainment. Fans can expect fierce rivalries, intense matches, and a festival-like atmosphere as the league returns this August. UNI BM
