Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha won the toss and elected to bat first, hoping for a strong beginning to their Super 8 campaign. However, the Sri Lankan weather had other plans. Persistent heavy rain turned the ground unplayable, forcing officials to abandon the contest. According to ICC rules, when a match is abandoned without any overs being completed, both teams are awarded one point each.

This result has complicated the equation in Group 2, which also features England and hosts Sri Lanka. With every point now carrying significant weight, the path to the semi-finals has become more challenging for all teams involved. A single point from a washout offers some consolation, but it also underscores how crucial the remaining fixtures will be.

Pakistan will now travel from Colombo to Kandy for their next crucial encounter. On Tuesday, February 24, they face a formidable England side at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium. This match is being described as a “must-win” for Babar Azam’s team. A defeat could seriously jeopardize their semi-final hopes, putting immense pressure on the Pakistani squad to deliver their best performance.

New Zealand, meanwhile, will remain in Colombo. They are scheduled to take on host nation Sri Lanka on Wednesday, February 25, at the same R. Premadasa Stadium. Playing against a strong home side on familiar conditions will be a tough test for the Kiwis. Although they gained a point from the rain, their position in the group remains delicate, making consistent victories essential moving forward.

The abandonment of such a marquee match is undoubtedly a setback for cricket enthusiasts who were eagerly awaiting the contest. Rain interruptions are an unfortunate reality in multi-nation tournaments, especially in regions like Sri Lanka where weather can change rapidly. Questions are being raised about ground conditions and drainage facilities, though the immediate focus remains on the upcoming games.

Experts believe that in the high-stakes Super 8 phase, every point is as valuable as gold. Both Pakistan and New Zealand possess talented squads capable of turning things around. Pakistan’s explosive batting lineup and New Zealand’s experienced campaigners will need to step up in the coming days.

All eyes are now on the next set of matches. The February 24 clash between Pakistan and England, followed by New Zealand versus Sri Lanka on February 25, is expected to provide much-needed clarity to the Group 2 standings. Cricket fans remain hopeful that the weather will cooperate, allowing for exciting, uninterrupted contests ahead.

The T20 World Cup 2026 journey is still very much alive, and every team is ready to fight for a place in the semi-finals. As the tournament progresses, the true contenders will emerge through their performances on the field.

The fourth edition of the WPL is scheduled from January 9 to February 5, 2026, across venues in Navi Mumbai and Vadodara. Mumbai Indians, led by captain Harmanpreet Kaur, will open their campaign against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on January 9 at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai.

Beams, now 41, represented Australia in one Test, 30 ODIs, and 18 T20Is between 2014 and 2017. She played a key role in Australia's campaigns, notably finishing as the third-highest wicket-taker in the 2017 Women's ODI World Cup. Domestically, she featured for Melbourne Stars in the Women's Big Bash League (WBBL) across several seasons.

After retiring from playing, Beams transitioned seamlessly into coaching. She has worked in the WBBL (including with title-winning Hobart Hurricanes recently), The Hundred in England, and served as head coach of Australia's Women's Under-19 team. Additionally, she held roles as National Development Lead at Cricket Australia and Community Cricket Manager (South) at Cricket Tasmania.

Beams will integrate into a strong support staff at Mumbai Indians, including head coach Lisa Keightley, bowling coach and mentor Jhulan Goswami, batting coach Devika Palshikar, and fielding coach Nicole Bolton.

Expressing her enthusiasm, Beams shared: "It's an incredible opportunity to work with someone like Jhulan Goswami, one of the greats of the game, somebody I played cricket against. They've developed a winning culture over a really long period of time, but it's a family—that's what everyone talks about, how tight-knit this group is. As a coach coming in, that's exactly what you want: an environment that feels connected and a team that knows how to win."

Mumbai Indians have dominated the WPL so far, winning two titles in three seasons (2023 and 2025). With Beams' expertise in leg-spin and her proven coaching track record, the franchise aims to sharpen their spin department and mount a strong title defense.

mumbaiindians.com

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

1. When does WPL 2026 start and what is Mumbai Indians' first match? The tournament begins on January 9, 2026, with Mumbai Indians facing Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Navi Mumbai. The final is on February 5 in Vadodara.

2. Who is Kristen Beams and what is her playing background? Kristen Beams is a former Australian leg-spinner who played 1 Test, 30 ODIs, and 18 T20Is from 2014-2017. She was the third-highest wicket-taker in the 2017 Women's World Cup.

3. What coaching experience does Kristen Beams have? Beams has coached in the WBBL and The Hundred, served as head coach of Australia's U19 women's team, and held development roles at Cricket Australia and Cricket Tasmania.

4. Who are the other coaches in Mumbai Indians' WPL staff? The staff includes head coach Lisa Keightley, bowling coach/mentor Jhulan Goswami, batting coach Devika Palshikar, and fielding coach Nicole Bolton.

5. How many WPL titles have Mumbai Indians won? Mumbai Indians have won two titles—in the inaugural 2023 season and the 2025 season—making them the most successful team in the league's short history.

Sri Lanka captain Chamari Athapaththu finally won the toss and opted to field first, a decision that backfired spectacularly. Openers Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma launched a devastating assault on the bowling attack, forging a monumental 162-run partnership—the highest for any wicket in India's women's T20I history.

Mandhana led the charge with a classy 80 off 48 balls (11 fours, 3 sixes), while Verma contributed a aggressive 79 off 46 balls (12 fours, 1 six). Their stand laid the foundation for the record-breaking total, with the duo showcasing impeccable timing, placement, and power.

After the openers fell in quick succession—Verma caught and bowled, followed by Mandhana edging a sweep—Richa Ghosh was promoted and unleashed a fiery unbeaten 40 off just 16 balls (4 fours, 3 sixes). Captain Harmanpreet Kaur provided solid support with an unbeaten 16, as India accelerated in the death overs to surpass their previous best T20I score.

During her innings, Mandhana also achieved a personal milestone, surpassing 10,000 runs in international cricket across formats, becoming only the second Indian woman after Mithali Raj to reach this landmark.

Chasing a daunting 222, Sri Lanka showed fight with an explosive start. Hasini Perera (33 off 20, 7 fours) and Athapaththu (52 off 37, 3 fours, 3 sixes) added 59 runs in the PowerPlay. However, the middle order failed to build on the momentum, and regular wickets stalled their progress.

Despite late contributions pushing them to 191/6—their highest T20I total—Sri Lanka fell short. India's bowlers, led by Vaishnavi Sharma and Arundhati Reddy (two wickets each), maintained tight control in the middle and death overs.

This victory highlights India's batting depth and dominance in the series, setting them up for a potential whitewash in the final match. Sri Lanka, though improved in intent, will aim to salvage pride and avoid a clean sweep.

On the opening day, young opener Sam Konstas stole the show with a composed 109 off 144 balls. His innings was studded with 10 fours and three towering sixes, showcasing a blend of patience and aggression. Konstas found able support from fellow opener Campbell Kellaway, who scored a solid 88 but fell agonizingly short of a century. Their partnership laid a strong foundation for Australia A, setting the tone for a dominant batting display.

Day two belonged to Josh Philippe, who lit up the scoreboard with a breathtaking 123 off just 87 balls. Philippe’s aggressive knock, featuring 18 fours and four sixes, came at a remarkable strike rate of 141.37—an unusual feat in Test cricket. Contributions from other batsmen, including quick cameos, helped Australia A pile on the runs before declaring at 532/6, leaving India A with a mountain to climb.

India A’s response began with openers Abhimanyu Easwaran and N Jagadeesan, backed by a talented lineup including captain Shreyas Iyer, Sai Sudharsan, and Devdutt Padikkal. Both Sudharsan and Padikkal bring international experience, adding depth to the side. As India A takes on this massive chase, all eyes are on how their batsmen counter Australia A’s imposing total.

This series, a crucial platform for players vying for national team spots, promises intense competition. With India’s senior team set to face the West Indies soon, players on both sides are eager to make a mark. As the first Test progresses, fans can expect a thrilling battle between Australia A’s bowling attack and India A’s determined batsmen, setting the stage for an exciting series.

What started as a seemingly straightforward pursuit turned tricky from the outset. The early overs dragged, building unnecessary pressure on the top order. Opener Pathum Nissanka, ever the reliable anchor, steadied the ship with a composed knock, guiding his side through the middle phase. Yet, just when victory felt within grasp — with 32 runs needed off the last 30 balls — disaster struck. Four quick wickets tumbled: Nissanka departed, followed in rapid succession by Kusal Perera, Asalanka himself, and Kamindu Mendis. Suddenly, Hong Kong's bowlers sensed blood, injecting life into what had been a fading contest.

Hong Kong's fielding woes only amplified the drama. The associate side dropped at least five catches, gifting Sri Lanka lifelines they couldn't always seize. But in the clutch, all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga stepped up with a blistering cameo, smashing boundaries to haul his team over the line. It was a reminder of T20's unforgiving nature: one player's poise can turn panic into triumph.

Reflecting on the chaos, Asalanka didn't mince words. "In that moment, I think our heart was in our mouths," he told reporters, his voice laced with the relief of survival. The skipper pinpointed key lapses that irked him — a sloppy start with the ball in the first three overs, a wobbly 16th over in the chase that cost two wickets, and his own untimely dismissal. "There are a few areas I am really disappointed about," he said. "In the shorter format, these things can happen, but it cannot keep happening consistently. We have to analyse it and improve ourselves."

The bowling, too, came under scrutiny. Sri Lanka's attack leaked runs early, allowing Hong Kong to post a competitive total after a solid batting effort from the minnows. "We felt confident of chasing it because the pitch was looking good," Asalanka noted. "Credit goes to them — they batted really well, and we bowled badly in the first three overs. This is not the way we wanted to play. When we are playing these sides, there is always pressure. But we are professionals, and as professionals, we have to do much better than this."

This win wasn't isolated; it echoed Sri Lanka's recent T20 struggles, including a stretched series against Zimbabwe where similar inconsistencies surfaced. Now thrust into the tournament's Group of Death alongside powerhouses Afghanistan and Bangladesh, every point feels precious. With victories over Bangladesh and Hong Kong already in the bag, Sri Lanka's path to the Super 4s hinges on Tuesday's result: an Afghanistan win over Bangladesh would seal their progression.

For Asalanka's men, this scrape against Hong Kong serves as a wake-up call. In a format that rewards ruthlessness, complacency is the real opponent. As the group stage heats up, Sri Lanka will hope Hasaranga's flair and Nissanka's grit become the norm, not the exception. After all, in cricket's theater of the unexpected, surviving the heart-stoppers is half the battle — and the thrill that keeps us hooked.

Sehrawat, a marquee signing for the Thalaivas, had previously played for the team in Season 9 but was sidelined by injury after just one game. This season, he featured in the team’s first three matches, including a win against his former side, Telugu Titans, followed by two losses. Notably, the Thalaivas secured a commanding 46-36 victory over Bengal Warriorz in Jaipur without Sehrawat, raising questions about the timing and rationale behind his exit. The franchise’s statement read, “Pawan Sehrawat has been sent home for the remainder of the season owing to disciplinary reasons, in alignment with the team’s code of conduct.”

Pawan Sehrawat issues his statement! ?#PKL12 #ProKabaddi pic.twitter.com/hO5tMNexWm

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) September 14, 2025

The Indian kabaddi captain, known for his explosive raids and leadership, responded with defiance. “I’ve been part of the Indian team, so I understand discipline,” Sehrawat said. “If there’s even 1% truth in these allegations, I promise I’ll stop playing kabaddi.” His emotional rebuttal has rallied support from fans, who view him as a cornerstone of Indian kabaddi. Randhir Sehrawat, Pawan’s former coach at Bengaluru Bulls, also criticized the Thalaivas’ decision, amplifying the controversy.

For Tamil Thalaivas, losing their captain and top raider is a significant blow. The team had built its strategy around Sehrawat’s dynamic presence, and his absence leaves a void in both leadership and on-mat performance. The controversy also casts a shadow over the franchise’s reputation as they navigate the ongoing PKL season.

As speculation swirls, the kabaddi world awaits clarity on the allegations and Sehrawat’s next move. His legacy as a national team captain and one of PKL’s biggest stars hangs in the balance, making this one of the most dramatic chapters in the league’s history. For now, Tamil Thalaivas must regroup and refocus, while Sehrawat fights to clear his name.

The Men in Blue struck early and often, turning the match into a procession. Hardik Pandya set the tone in the first over, dismissing opener Saim Ayub for a golden duck with a sharp inswinger that trapped him lbw. Jasprit Bumrah followed suit in the next over, castling Mohammad Haris with a searing yorker to leave Pakistan reeling at 6/2 inside the powerplay. The early breakthroughs rattled the Pakistani batting line-up, which struggled to build partnerships on a surface offering variable bounce and turn.

As the innings progressed, India's spinners took control, exploiting the conditions masterfully. Axar Patel struck twice, removing Fakhar Zaman and Salman Agha to stifle any momentum, while Kuldeep Yadav shone brightest with a haul of three wickets, including key blows to the middle order. Varun Chakravarthy chipped in with one scalp, ensuring Pakistan's innings folded under pressure. The Men in Green managed only 125/9 in their 20 overs, with Shaheen Afridi and Abrar Ahmed offering some resistance in the lower order but unable to push the total beyond reach. Bumrah's precision and the spinners' economy— all under 4.5 runs per over in parts—highlighted India's depth in the absence of stars like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.

Chasing 126, India made light work of the target, showcasing their explosive T20 prowess. Openers Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill gave them a blistering start, racing to 42/0 after four overs against a pace attack led by Shaheen Afridi. Abhishek, in particular, took the fight to Pakistan early, smashing boundaries off the star pacer to set an aggressive tone. However, the chase wasn't without hiccups; both openers departed soon after, with Abhishek falling for a quickfire 31, leaving India at 48/2.

Captain Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma steadied the ship, blending caution with calculated risks. Suryakumar's elegant strokeplay, including a diving save denied by Shaheen in the deep, kept the scoreboard ticking. With no real scoreboard pressure, India cruised to victory by seven wickets, reaching the target in just 14.3 overs. Suryakumar remained unbeaten, guiding his side home with composure that belied the rivalry's intensity.

This win, India's second in the tournament, puts them in a strong position in Group A, while Pakistan must regroup quickly. The match, played under tight security amid the electric atmosphere, reminded fans why India-Pakistan encounters transcend sport—raw emotion, skill, and unyielding competition. As the Asia Cup heats up, Suryakumar's young brigade has sent a clear message: the future is bright for Indian cricket.

When the gates of the Dubai International Cricket Stadium opened at 3:30 p.m., the usual chaotic traffic and long queues synonymous with this iconic rivalry were noticeably subdued. However, as the day progressed, passionate fans donning India’s blue and Pakistan’s green filled the stands, bringing the stadium to life with vibrant chants, songs, and dances. Though the 25,000-capacity venue wasn’t packed at the first ball, the enthusiastic crowd countered the dissenting voices on social media.

“For me, it’s just cricket,” said Mahindra, a Mumbai native who has lived in the UAE for 15 years. “The government approved the match, so it’s all good.”

A significant number of expatriates from Kerala, now calling Dubai home, echoed similar sentiments. “Sports and politics shouldn’t mix. I don’t support boycotting any team,” said Shan, a Keralite working in Dubai since the mid-2000s.

However, some fans noted a dip in the usual frenzy. “People have bought tickets, but the excitement isn’t like the Champions Trophy or past tournaments. Ticket sales are definitely lower,” observed Rajesh from Palakkad.

Despite divided opinions, the fans who showed up brought their unwavering passion, proving that the India-Pakistan cricket rivalry remains a spectacle like no other.

Axar Patel struck early, dismissing Fakhar Zaman and Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha, while Hardik Pandya set the tone by removing Saim Ayub for a golden duck in the first over. Jasprit Bumrah joined the party, claiming Mohammad Haris in the second over. Pakistan's Sahibzada Farhan top-scored with a gritty 40 off 44 balls, but the Indian bowlers kept the pressure on.

India retained their unchanged XI, featuring a single specialist pacer, Jasprit Bumrah, supported by all-rounders Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube. The spin trio of Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, and Varun Chakravarthy proved lethal on the Dubai International Cricket Stadium pitch, described by Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha as slow. Pakistan also fielded the same side that triumphed over Oman in their Group A opener.

At the toss, Salman Ali Agha elected to bat, aiming to post a competitive total. "It’s a slow wicket, and we want to put runs on the board. We’ve been here for over 20 days and are used to the conditions," he said. Meanwhile, Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav was content to bowl first, noting, "It’s a nice wicket, better to bat on at night with some dew expected. We’re happy with the same team."

India Playing XI: Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav (c), Tilak Varma, Sanju Samson (w), Shivam Dube, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakravarthy.

Pakistan Playing XI: Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Mohammad Haris (w), Fakhar Zaman, Salman Agha (c), Hasan Nawaz, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Sufiyan Muqeem, Abrar Ahmed.

India’s Strong Start, Stumble in the Middle

After opting to bat first, India got off to a flying start thanks to openers Smriti Mandhana (58) and Pratika Rawal (64), who registered their fifth century stand in just 15 innings together. The pair put on a record 114-run opening stand against Australia, showcasing fluent strokeplay before Mandhana’s dismissal triggered a slowdown.

Australia’s spin duo Georgia Wareham and Annabel Sutherland applied the brakes in the middle overs, while Alana King picked up key wickets, including Rawal. Skipper Harmanpreet Kaur, playing her 150th ODI, fell cheaply for 11.

India’s recovery came through Harleen Deol (54), who struck a brisk fifty, and late cameos from Richa Ghosh (21), Radha Yadav (19), and Deepti Sharma (20). Despite reaching 281, lapses in the middle overs and the lack of a big finish left them at least 30 runs short of a commanding total.

Fielding Lapses Cost India Dear

India’s defense of 281 was undermined by shoddy fielding and dropped catches. Litchfield, who top-scored with 88, was dropped twice — first by Jemimah Rodrigues early in her innings and later by skipper Harmanpreet. Ellyse Perry (27) too benefited from a reprieve before retiring hurt with a calf strain.

Australia’s Chase – Calm and Clinical

Openers Alyssa Healy (16) and Litchfield provided a brisk start before Healy fell to debutant Kranti Goud. Perry and Litchfield then stitched a 79-run stand, ensuring the asking rate never climbed. After Perry’s retirement, Mooney seamlessly slotted in, combining with Litchfield for a 46-run stand before the latter fell for 88.

The unbroken 116-run partnership between Mooney and Sutherland sealed the chase with remarkable ease. Mooney raced to a 45-ball half-century, while Sutherland paced her innings smartly, raising her fifty off 47 balls. Together, they dismantled India’s spin attack and punished wayward pace bowling.

The contrast in middle-overs performance proved decisive: Australia scored 196/1 in 30 overs, while India managed only 152/3 in the same phase.

Brief Scores

• India: 281/7 in 50 overs (Pratika Rawal 64, Smriti Mandhana 58, Harleen Deol 54; Megan Schutt 2/45)

• Australia: 282/2 in 44.1 overs (Phoebe Litchfield 88, Beth Mooney 77*, Annabel Sutherland 54*)

Australia lead the three-match series 1-0, with the next ODI set to offer India an opportunity to bounce back.

India Strike Early 

Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha won the toss and chose to bat first, a decision that appeared costly in the initial moments. Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya struck in the very first over, dismissing Saim Ayub for a golden duck. The early pressure continued as pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah removed Mohammad Haris in the second over, leaving Pakistan reeling at 2/2.

At that stage, the momentum was firmly with India, who went into the match with an unchanged playing XI. Notably, India fielded only one specialist pacer in Bumrah, supported by Pandya and Shivam Dube, while relying heavily on their spin trio of Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, and Varun Chakravarthy.

Pakistan’s Fightback

Despite the shaky start, Fakhar Zaman and Sahibzada Farhan showed composure against the Indian attack. Playing calculated strokes, the duo guided Pakistan to 42/2 at the end of the powerplay, shifting the pressure back onto the Indian bowlers. Zaman’s aggressive intent and Farhan’s steady approach proved vital in stabilizing Pakistan’s innings.

The match held additional intrigue as both sides fielded the same line-ups from their previous encounters. Pakistan retained the squad that defeated Oman in their Group A opener, banking on familiarity with the Dubai conditions.

Captains’ Views at Toss

India’s stand-in skipper Suryakumar Yadav explained his preference for bowling first:

“We were looking to bowl first, happy with it. We played just one strip away, was a nice wicket and better to bat on in the night. It’s humid so hoping for some dew. Same team.”

Meanwhile, Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha expressed confidence in setting a target:

“Going to bat first. We’ve been playing good cricket, very excited. Looks like a slow wicket. Just want to bat first and put runs on the board. Same side. Have been here for 20-odd days and are used to the conditions.”

Playing XIs

India: Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav (c), Tilak Varma, Sanju Samson (wk), Shivam Dube, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakravarthy.

Pakistan: Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Mohammad Haris (wk), Fakhar Zaman, Salman Agha (c), Hasan Nawaz, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Sufiyan Muqeem, Abrar Ahmed.

The Battle Ahead

With Pakistan recovering strongly after the early blows, the match promises to be another gripping chapter in the India–Pakistan rivalry. The focus will now be on whether India’s spinners can make inroads in the middle overs, or if Pakistan’s batting order can post a formidable total under the Dubai lights.

Paralysis and Spine Surgery

Shreyas Iyer revealed that a back injury in 2023 became so severe that it caused one of his legs to stop functioning completely. “No one can understand the pain I went through,” he said. “One of my legs was paralyzed, and I underwent spine surgery where a rod was inserted in my back. It was an extremely painful and frightening experience. The pain from my back to my heel was unbearable, and it terrified me.”

This injury forced Iyer to miss the 2023 IPL and the World Test Championship final. During this period, Delhi Capitals appointed Rishabh Pant as captain in his absence, and Iyer later parted ways with the franchise.

Key Role in World Cup and Champions Trophy

Despite the setback, Shreyas Iyer made a remarkable comeback, playing a pivotal role in guiding India to the final of the 2023 ODI World Cup. He was the third-highest run-scorer for India in the tournament, behind Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, providing much-needed stability at the number 4 position—a long-standing challenge for the Indian team. Additionally, Iyer played a crucial role in India’s victory in the Champions Trophy.

IPL 2024 Captaincy and Controversy

In 2024, Iyer led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to their first IPL title in a decade. His exceptional captaincy and individual performances earned widespread praise. However, KKR surprisingly did not retain him for the next auction, with reports suggesting financial disagreements as the reason.

Iyer also revealed that many doubted the severity of his injury. “People think players are robots who can go out and score runs every time,” he said. “But no one understands the reality of injuries and pain.”

Exclusion from Asia Cup 2025

Recently, Shreyas Iyer was left out of India’s squad for the Asia Cup 2025, a decision that disappointed him. Nevertheless, his determination and hard work continue to make him an inspiration in Indian cricket.

An Inspiring Comeback Story

Shreyas Iyer’s journey is a testament to his resilience and determination. His battle with adversity not only made him a stronger player but also an inspiration for young cricketers. His story underscores that success is possible even in the face of overwhelming challenges.

In an exhilarating PKL Season 12 match, Dabang Delhi KC’s Ashu Malik dazzled spectators with a spectacular display of athleticism against Jaipur Pink Panthers. During a pivotal raid, Ashu pulled off an incredible frog jump, soaring over a defender to clinch two crucial points for his team.

The game-changing moment unfolded at a critical juncture when Delhi needed to turn the tide. Known for his quick reflexes and nimble footwork, Ashu charged toward the Jaipur defense with confidence. As a defender crouched for a block, Ashu launched into a perfectly executed frog jump, clearing the opponent and tagging two defenders before safely crossing the baulk line.

Bigger League Stage

Each of the participating teams will play 18 matches during the league stage, ensuring more opportunities for players to showcase their skills and fans to witness high-intensity clashes. The longer format aims to bring consistency, pressure, and excitement to every matchday.

Golden Raid Comes to League Stage

One of the biggest changes this season is the introduction of the Golden Raid tie-breaker in the league stage itself. Earlier, this format was limited only to the play-offs.

Here’s how it will work in case of a tied match:

• Both teams will line up with 7 players.

• A special 5-raid shootout will be held, with each side nominating 5 different raiders.

• Raids will be taken alternately, and only points scored will count—no outs or revivals apply.

• If the game is still tied, the Golden Raid comes into play, where a fresh toss decides which team gets the decisive raid.

• If even that ends in a tie, the result will be determined by another toss.

This format guarantees decisive results, adding drama to even regular-season fixtures.

Simplified Points System

The PKL has also made its points table easier to follow. Teams will now get:

• 2 points for a win

• 0 points for a loss

This streamlined scoring eliminates confusion and keeps the standings straightforward for fans.

Revamped Play-off Structure

Season 12 will also see an expanded play-off format. Now, the top 8 teams from the league stage will have a chance to compete for the championship.

Here’s the breakdown:

• Teams finishing 5th to 8th will play Play-in Matches, with winners moving on to the Eliminators.

• Teams in 3rd and 4th place will face each other in a Mini-Qualifier—the winner advances, while the loser gets another shot later.

• The top 2 teams from the league stage will clash in Qualifier 1. The winner goes directly to the final, while the losing team gets a second chance in Qualifier 2.

• Overall, the knockout stage will now include 3 Eliminators and 2 Qualifiers, creating more suspense and opportunities for turnarounds before the final.

A Season Full of Thrills

With these changes, PKL Season 12 promises to deliver edge-of-the-seat moments right from the first whistle. The expanded fixtures, Golden Raid drama, simplified scoring, and broader play-off race will ensure that every point and every raid carries weight—making this season one of the most exciting in the league’s history.

Chandhok explained that the team had closely analysed last season’s shortcomings and worked hard to bridge those gaps. “We went back, identified the areas that needed fixing and addressed them very sharply. We’ve strengthened our squad—Sandeep is back, Anil is back, Satish too, and we have Zafar Danish, an exceptional all-rounder who can both defend and raid. It’s a very balanced team that has gelled together wonderfully,” he said at the official jersey unveiling ceremony in Mumbai.

Longest Pre-Season Camp in PKL History

The franchise organised an unprecedented 50-day training camp, the longest ever in PKL history, designed to build both fitness and team chemistry. According to Chandhok, this extended camp created a family-like bond within the squad. “We have players from Haryana, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu and many other states, but here they have come together as one unit. That’s our biggest strength this season,” he added.

The camp was spearheaded by Pratiek Ninawe, a former international sprinter who has introduced modern fitness science into kabaddi. Training began with mobility assessments to close individual weaknesses, before progressing to strength drills, endurance conditioning, and sprint mechanics. Players reportedly crossed the 110 kg squat benchmark, trained in explosive movement, and built the stamina required for high-intensity kabaddi matches.

New Jersey: Tribute to Season 2 Triumph

U Mumba unveiled their Season 12 jersey which is inspired by the iconic 2015 (Season 2) championship kit. Staying true to the team’s signature orange-and-black colours, the design also includes modern touches such as a nod to Mumbai’s international airport, symbolising a connection between past glory and future ambitions.

Team captain Sunil Kumar, who will lead the squad this season, said:
“Though I wasn’t part of the 2015 win, that victory under Anup Kumar is a huge inspiration for all of us. Wearing this tribute jersey reminds us of the benchmark U Mumba has always set. My goal is to carry forward that legacy with the experience of our senior players and the energy of our youngsters, and chase our second title this year.”

Legacy Beyond Results

Franchise owner Ronnie Screwvala reflected on the significance of their 2015 triumph, calling it a “breakthrough moment” not just for the team, but for kabaddi in India. “It proved that kabaddi could succeed commercially and culturally at a national level. For U Mumba, it was about creating professional structures, investing in talent, and treating sport with the same seriousness as any business. A decade later, that victory still defines our vision—sustainable growth, building long-term value, and creating a legacy that goes beyond just trophies,” he said.

A Tradition of Talent and Innovation

With 111 league-stage wins and appearances in three consecutive finals in their first three seasons, U Mumba remain one of the most successful franchises in PKL history. The team has consistently produced homegrown players who went on to represent India, cementing its role as a breeding ground for kabaddi talent.

Now, the franchise is pairing that legacy with modern sports science, setting new benchmarks in physical preparation and performance. By blending experience, fresh energy, and cutting-edge training methods, U Mumba are eyeing nothing less than a second PKL title in Season 12.

Suryakumar has enjoyed a successful start to his leadership journey, remaining unbeaten in T20I series so far and winning four out of five he has led. Speaking to Sony Sports, Sehwag highlighted that India currently has the ideal balance of youth and experienced players, which makes them strong contenders for the title.

According to Sehwag, Suryakumar’s natural attacking instinct makes him the perfect fit for the shortest format. “This Indian side has the right blend of youngsters and senior players. Under Surya’s fearless captaincy, they have the ability to rule Asia again. His aggressive style is made for T20 cricket, and if the team follows the same approach, I am confident India will bring the trophy home,” he said.

“Fans Deserve a Day They’ll Never Forget”

As part of Sony Sports Network’s RagRagMeinBharat campaign, Sehwag recalled his own memories of the Asia Cup, particularly the electrifying atmosphere on match days.

“Walking into the dressing room and hearing the chants from outside was unforgettable. The buzz, the energy, the excitement — it was everywhere. I used to tell my teammates that we weren’t just playing a match, but creating memories for the fans. That feeling of unity is what this campaign captures, where every clap and every heartbeat echoes for India,” Sehwag said.

India will open their Asia Cup 2025 campaign against the UAE on September 10.

A Scion of a Business Dynasty

Sania Chandhok hails from the prominent Ghai family, led by renowned industrialist Ravi Ghai. The family owns the luxurious five-star InterContinental Hotel in Mumbai and the popular ice cream and frozen dessert brand, The Brooklyn Creamery, celebrated for its health-conscious offerings. Additionally, the Graviss Group, a major player in the food and hospitality sector, is another feather in their business cap.

Carving Her Own Path

Despite her affluent background, Sania has forged her own identity through hard work and ambition. A graduate of the prestigious London School of Economics, she returned to Mumbai to establish *Mr. Paws*, a high-end pet salon, spa, and store. This luxury pet care venture has become a favorite among Mumbai’s pet enthusiasts. Sania maintains a low profile, keeping her social media private, reflecting her preference for discretion in her personal life.

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Arjun and Sania: A Blend of Passion and Acumen

Arjun Tendulkar is known for his relentless commitment to cricket, while Sania brings sharp business acumen to the table. Together, they are poised to become a dynamic power couple. Though Arjun has yet to reach the towering heights of his father’s cricketing legacy, he has been steadily building his reputation in domestic cricket with Goa and in the IPL with Mumbai Indians. A left-arm fast bowler with a knack for hitting big shots, Arjun continues to carve his niche in the sport.

A Union of Two Influential Families

The announcement of their engagement has sparked a flood of congratulations from fans on social media. This union is not just a bond between two individuals but also a merger of two of Mumbai’s most prominent families. The engagement ceremony was an intimate affair, attended only by close friends and family, yet its elegance and charm rivaled any grand celebration.

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This milestone marks the beginning of an exciting chapter for Arjun and Sania, as they blend their worlds of sports and business with shared dreams and aspirations.