Nathan Ellis produced a superb all-round performance before holding his nerve under pressure to guide Australia to a thrilling three-wicket victory over Zimbabwe, completing a 3-0 ODI series clean sweep in Harare. Australia needed 27 runs when the last-wicket pair of Ellis and Spencer Johnson came together, but the visitors kept their composure to chase down Zimbabwe’s competitive total and deny the hosts a consolation win in the final match of the series. Ellis, who had earlier claimed 3 for 50 with the ball, finished unbeaten on 36 as Australia reached their target in dramatic fashion. Johnson provided valuable support at the other end as the pair completed a match-winning 27-run partnership. Zimbabwe had looked well placed for victory after Australia slipped from 162 for 3 to 203 for 5. Josh Inglis, who scored a brilliant century, had anchored the chase, but his dismissal with Australia still needing 45 runs left the contest finely balanced. Brad Evans was Zimbabwe's standout bowler, claiming four wickets and repeatedly putting Australia under pressure. He dismissed Alex Carey after the Australian wicketkeeper had helped Inglis rebuild the innings, triggering another collapse. However, Ellis stepped up when Australia needed him most. Inglis Leads Australia’s Chase Australia’s chase suffered an early setback when Evans struck twice inside his opening two overs. Travis Head was caught at deep backward square before Mitchell Marsh edged behind, leaving Australia struggling at 25 for 2 in the fourth over. Inglis responded with an aggressive counterattack, finding boundaries through the point region and punishing a full toss from veteran spinner Graeme Cremer. He added 85 runs with Carey to restore control before Zimbabwe fought back again. Raza dismissed Ollie Peake for an lbw, while Cremer removed Xavier Bartlett with a googly as Australia slipped to 203 for 5 after 35 overs. Inglis eventually brought up his century from 94 balls with a powerful sweep against Cremer. But with Australia still requiring 55 runs, Raza bowled him in the 42nd over, giving Zimbabwe renewed hope. That hope faded in the final stages as Ellis took control. Zimbabwe’s Missed Opportunities Zimbabwe had several chances to change the outcome in the field. Inglis, on 48, miscued a delivery from Ernest Masuku towards backward point, but Wessly Madhevere could not hold on to a difficult chance. Madhevere later produced an outstanding catch to dismiss Carey, but another opportunity slipped away in the penultimate over when Ellis struck Masuku towards deep midwicket. Madhevere got underneath the ball but spilled the catch. With Australia needing nine runs from the final over, Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza handed the ball to Madhevere despite having an over from Cremer remaining. Ellis immediately punished the decision, launching the first ball for six before Australia completed the victory. Raza and Ervine Give Zimbabwe a Strong Start Zimbabwe had earlier posted a competitive 296 for 9 after being asked to bat first. Sikandar Raza top-scored with an unbeaten 81, while Craig Ervine and Innocent Kaia provided important contributions. Kaia scored 55 before retiring hurt with what appeared to be a hamstring injury during an 80-run partnership with Ervine. His departure briefly interrupted Zimbabwe’s momentum. Ervine reached 59 and looked set to guide Zimbabwe towards the 300-run mark, but he attempted to accelerate and holed out to long-on. His dismissal triggered a collapse of four wickets for just 22 runs. Zimbabwe eventually recovered through Raza, who controlled the final stages and ensured his side posted their second-highest ODI total against Australia. Australia Complete Clean Sweep Despite Zimbabwe’s strong periods with both bat and ball, Australia consistently found ways to recover from difficult situations. Inglis’ century kept the chase alive, while Ellis’ unbeaten 36 and earlier three-wicket haul proved decisive. The result completed Australia’s 3-0 series victory and extended their successful tour of Zimbabwe. For the hosts, the defeat highlighted several missed opportunities, particularly in the field and in their management of the bowling attack during the closing overs. Zimbabwe will now have no home internationals for the remainder of 2026, making the narrow defeat an especially frustrating end to the series.

Sikandar Raza held Zimbabwe's innings together with a determined half-century, while Nathan Ellis produced an impressive death-bowling spell as Australia restricted the hosts after a promising start in the third ODI. Zimbabwe reached a strong position during the middle overs, with Innocent Kaia, Craig Ervine and Sikandar Raza all scoring half-centuries. However, a series of late wickets prevented the hosts from pushing their total closer to the 300-run mark. Zimbabwe were 148 for 2 when Kaia was forced to retire hurt in the 29th over after appearing to suffer a hamstring injury. At that stage, the hosts had built a solid platform and were 206 for 3 with 10 overs remaining, raising hopes of a big finish. Australia's bowlers responded strongly in the final overs. Nathan Ellis claimed 3 for 50, including crucial wickets during the closing stages, while Spencer Johnson finished with 2 for 50 from his 10 overs. Adam Zampa also played a key role through the middle overs, taking 2 for 43 and preventing Zimbabwe from accelerating consistently. Australia made an encouraging start with the new ball as Johnson and Xavier Bartlett found movement. Zimbabwe reached 34 without loss after six overs before losing their opening pair in quick succession. Ben Curran was the first to fall, gloving a Johnson delivery down the leg side to be caught behind for 7. Brian Bennett followed after making 30, miscuing an Ellis delivery to Travis Head at midwicket. Zimbabwe were left at 57 for 2 at the end of the powerplay. Brendan Taylor struggled to get going and was bowled by Zampa's quicker delivery after scoring just nine runs from 16 balls. Kaia then provided the stability Zimbabwe needed. After surviving an early opportunity, he settled into his innings and began finding the boundaries with a series of well-timed drives and pulls. He reached his half-century from 59 balls, his first ODI fifty in 12 innings since January 2023. Kaia and Ervine added 80 runs before Kaia's innings came to an abrupt end. He appeared to injure his hamstring while completing a single and, despite receiving treatment and attempting to continue, was forced to retire hurt after facing only two more deliveries. Raza joined Ervine at the crease and initially struggled to find his rhythm. Australia created several opportunities, but Raza survived and eventually began to counterattack, including a six over midwicket against Zampa. Ervine brought up his second fifty of the series from 67 balls, while Raza continued to grow in confidence. The Zimbabwe captain reached another important milestone by becoming the highest ODI run-scorer at Harare Sports Club. The pair brought up a 50-run partnership and Zimbabwe's 200 in the 40th over, putting the hosts in position for a strong finish. Australia, however, struck back at exactly the right time. Ervine was caught at long-on attempting to accelerate, while Wessly Madhevere fell to an Ellis slower ball in the following over. Brad Evans briefly threatened to provide a late surge with consecutive boundaries against Johnson but was dismissed after top-edging a short delivery, giving Johnson his second wicket. Graeme Cremer, playing his first ODI in eight years just a day after his 40th birthday, was then trapped lbw by a precise Ellis yorker. Raza eventually reached his half-century at the start of the 46th over, but with wickets falling around him, he was left with limited support. The Zimbabwe captain attempted to farm the strike and accelerate the scoring, finishing strongly by taking 12 runs from Ellis' final over. Zimbabwe's inability to convert their strong middle-overs position into a bigger total will be a source of disappointment. Australia, meanwhile, once again demonstrated their ability to close out an innings under pressure as they look to complete a clean sweep in the three-match series.

Sikandar Raza has opted to bat first after winning the toss as Zimbabwe take on Australia in the third and final ODI of the series, looking to end their home international season with a consolation victory. Australia have already secured the three-match series 2-0 after winning the opening two encounters. The visitors will use the final match as preparation for their upcoming three-match ODI series against South Africa. Cremer Returns After Eight Years Zimbabwe have made two changes to their bowling attack. Wellington Masakadza misses out with a minor injury, while Newman Nyamhuri has been rested. The biggest talking point is the return of Graeme Cremer, who is set to play his first ODI since 2018. The legspinner turned 40 a day before the match and becomes the fourth Zimbabwe player over the age of 40, joining Brendan Taylor, Craig Ervine and captain Sikandar Raza. Ernest Masuku also returns to the XI for his third ODI appearance. Zimbabwe will be hoping their experienced players can guide them to a strong finish after Australia dominated the series' opening two matches. Australia Make Two Changes Australia have also made changes to their XI. Xavier Bartlett and Spencer Johnson return to the side, while uncapped left-arm spinner Joel Davies misses out. Cameron Green remains unavailable due to a shoulder problem, while Billy Stanlake has been ruled out after appearing to suffer a side strain during the second ODI. Josh Hazlewood has also been rested ahead of Australia's tour of South Africa. Australia's batting order remains unchanged, with Mitch Marsh continuing to lead the side. Zimbabwe's Final Home International of 2026 The match marks Zimbabwe's final home international of the year. They will next travel to the UAE, where they are scheduled to feature in a tri-series involving Afghanistan and Bangladesh before playing two Tests against Afghanistan. Zimbabwe are also scheduled to play ODI series in India and Pakistan in early 2027. Playing XIs Zimbabwe: Brian Bennett, Ben Curran, Innocent Kaia, Brendan Taylor (wk), Craig Ervine, Sikandar Raza (capt), Wessly Madhevere, Brad Evans, Graeme Cremer, Ernest Masuku, Blessing Murazabani. Australia: Mitch Marsh (capt), Travis Head, Cooper Connolly, Josh Inglis (wk), Alex Carey, Matt Renshaw, Oliver Peake, Xavier Bartlett, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa, Spencer Johnson.

Shafali Verma produced a breathtaking batting display, smashing an unbeaten 49-ball century as India stormed into the gold-medal match of the 2026 Asian Games with a commanding victory over Bangladesh. Batting first, India posted an imposing 195 for 4, with Shafali finishing unbeaten on 100. The explosive opener struck nine sixes and three fours, reaching her maiden white-ball international century from the final delivery of India's innings. India made a flying start, with Shafali taking the attack to Bangladesh's bowlers from the outset. She raced to 34 from just 17 balls, while Smriti Mandhana provided strong support at the other end. Mandhana scored a brisk 37 from 19 balls, a knock that also saw her become the leading run-scorer in women's T20Is. The opening pair added 72 runs in 36 balls before Mandhana's dismissal. Harmanpreet Kaur then joined Shafali at the crease and gradually found her rhythm after a cautious start. The India captain scored 40 from 33 balls, combining with Shafali for a crucial 94-run partnership for the third wicket. India's middle order had mixed fortunes, with G Kamalini and Richa Ghosh unable to make significant contributions. However, Shafali's late assault ensured India finished with a formidable total. Bangladesh Struggle in the Chase Chasing 196 for victory, Bangladesh never looked in control. Dilara Akter top-scored with 27, but Juairiya Ferdous was dismissed for a duck, while Bangladesh's middle order struggled to build partnerships. India's bowlers struck regularly from the beginning. Nandani Sharma claimed the first wicket in the second over before Kranti Gaud struck in the following over. Shree Charani then removed Bangladesh captain Nigar Sultana during the powerplay, leaving the opposition at 38 for 3. Nandani returned to pick up two wickets in the 11th over, further exposing Bangladesh's lower order. Deepti Sharma then wrapped up the innings by dismissing Marufa Akter leg before wicket and having Sanjida Akter caught in the 16th over. Nandani and Deepti both finished with three wickets each, while India's disciplined bowling attack restricted Bangladesh to a modest total. The victory sends India through to the gold-medal match, where they will face Sri Lanka, in a repeat of the 2023 Asian Games final. Bangladesh, meanwhile, will take on Pakistan in the bronze-medal match.

Harry Brook has challenged England to maintain their position at the top of the ICC T20I rankings after a dominant 3-0 series sweep over Sri Lanka. England sealed an eight-wicket victory in the third and final T20I at Emirates Old Trafford, completing a comprehensive series whitewash and reclaiming the No. 1 ranking from India. The result capped an impressive run for England, who have now won 23 of their last 26 completed T20 matches, including seven victories in succession. Their rise in the format began after Brook was appointed limited-overs captain at the start of last summer. England had previously climbed to the top of the rankings after a 4-0 T20I series victory over India earlier this summer, but India regained the position after beating Zimbabwe. England made their return to the summit in emphatic fashion against Sri Lanka. Chasing just 125 in the final match, they reached the target in only 9.4 overs, with Jos Buttler sealing victory with a six while remaining unbeaten on 62. Brook said England could be proud of their performance but stressed that the team must remain motivated to hold on to the No. 1 position."We've got to stay motivated to try and keep that spot for as long as possible." The England captain also acknowledged that maintaining the ranking could prove challenging because England play fewer T20 internationals than some of their rivals, particularly India. "We probably don't play as much T20 as other nations, especially India who play a hell of a lot of T20s. So keeping that might not be as easy as it sounds, but every opportunity we get, we're going to try and dominate in opposition," Brook said. Brook also praised England's fielding standards and the team's commitment to their plans. "Everything's running so smoothly, especially in the field. Lads are taking it upon themselves to make sure they're in the right spots and we're really nailing down and buying into everything that we're talking about in the outfield." The immediate future, however, will see England's focus shift away from T20 cricket. The next T20 World Cup is scheduled for 2028 in Australia and New Zealand, while England face a busy period across all three formats. New Test head coach Stephen Fleming was present at Old Trafford alongside white-ball coach Brendon McCullum. The pair have already begun discussing the demands placed on England's all-format players. Fleming's tenure will begin with a three-match Test series against South Africa, which overlaps with the latter stages of England's limited-overs tour of Australia. The Ashes next summer and the subsequent ODI World Cup will add further demands to the schedule. Brook, who is also England's Test vice-captain, could be among the players most affected by the competing demands. England's selectors had considered resting him for the Sri Lanka series before deciding to retain him following discussions with the 27-year-old. For now, Brook's attention remains on building England's winning culture in T20 cricket and ensuring their latest spell at the top of the rankings lasts as long as possible.

Mohammed Siraj has been named captain of Hyderabad for the first two matches of the upcoming Ranji Trophy season, with CV Milind appointed vice-captain. The Hyderabad Cricket Association confirmed that Siraj will lead the side in the opening two fixtures, while Milind will take over as captain if the India fast bowler is unavailable. The 15-member squad features a mix of experienced campaigners and young talent. Experienced batter Tanmay Agarwal, Rahul Singh and wicketkeepers Rahul Radesh and Sai Pragnay Reddy are among the key players included. Tanay Thyagarajan, Aniketh Reddy and Ajay Dev Goud are also part of the squad as Hyderabad prepare for the start of their Ranji Trophy campaign. Siraj's availability will depend on his international commitments. The fast bowler is currently part of India's ODI squad for the three-match series against the West Indies, which is scheduled to conclude on October 3 in New Chandigarh. Hyderabad will begin their Ranji Trophy campaign against Tripura on October 11, although the venue for the match has yet to be confirmed. They will then face Andhra in Vizianagaram from October 18. India's tour of New Zealand is scheduled to begin on October 22 with a T20I series. Siraj last represented India in T20Is in February, meaning his availability for Hyderabad could be influenced by India's international schedule. Hyderabad squad for first two Ranji Trophy matches Mohammed Siraj (capt), CV Milind (vice-capt), Tanmay Agarwal, M Abhirath Reddy, Rahul Singh, K Hima Teja, Rahul Radesh (wk), Sai Pragnay Reddy (wk), Varun Goud, Tanay Thyagrajan, Aniketh Reddy, Clt. Rakshann Readdi, Ajay Dev Goud, Ruthik Yadav Mende, Sai Vikas Reddy. Standbys: Bhavesh Seth (wk), HK Simha, T Ravi Teja, Shaunak Kulkarni, Mudassar Hussain, Kartikeya Kak, A Pruthvi Reddy.

Sri Lanka produced a commanding run chase as captain Chamari Athapaththu smashed an unbeaten 83 off 50 balls to guide her side into the final of the Asian Games Women's Cricket Competition. Athapaththu struck six sixes and several boundaries in a sensational late assault as Sri Lanka chased down Pakistan's target of 178 with ease. The victory saw Sri Lanka equal their highest-ever successful T20I chase. Pakistan, after being asked to bat first, posted 177, their highest T20I total against Sri Lanka. Shawaal Zulfiqar scored a patient 54 off 50 balls, while Ayesha Zafar provided the acceleration with a blistering 71 from just 40 deliveries. Zulfiqar and Zafar added 115 runs for the third wicket from 70 balls, although Zafar was responsible for most of the attacking strokeplay. Her innings included nine fours and two sixes and gave Pakistan a strong platform. Sri Lanka's chase began positively through Imesha Dulani, who struck five boundaries during her 21-ball 27. Athapaththu, however, was initially subdued, reaching only seven runs from 12 balls by the end of the powerplay. The Sri Lankan captain then dramatically changed the momentum in the eighth over. She attacked Momina Riasat, smashing the spinner for 6, 4, 6 and 4 in a 20-run over. Athapaththu was fortunate to survive on 18 when Fatima Sana appeared to have caught her at deep midwicket, only for the fielder to step on the boundary while attempting to throw the ball back into play. The reprieve proved costly for Pakistan. Athapaththu continued her assault against the left-arm spin, taking two fours and a six off Nashra Sandhu in the 10th over to bring Sri Lanka's required rate under control. Hasini Perera then joined the attack, hitting Tuba Hassan for two sixes and a four in the 13th over. Her aggressive 42 from 26 balls helped Sri Lanka build a crucial 95-run partnership with Athapaththu from just 56 deliveries. Perera was dismissed at the end of the 14th over with Sri Lanka still requiring 47 runs from 36 balls. But the chase was effectively under control, with Athapaththu and Harshitha Samarawickrama needing only 23 deliveries to complete the victory. Athapaththu remained unbeaten on 83, finishing a remarkable individual performance that combined early patience with explosive hitting in the middle and final stages of the chase. Sri Lanka's victory booked their place in the final, while Pakistan were left to rue missed opportunities and a total that ultimately proved insufficient despite strong contributions from Zafar and Zulfiqar.

Allrounder Chinelle Henry has returned to the West Indies squad for the upcoming tour of Zimbabwe, while Deandra Dottin will miss the series on personal leave. Henry returns to international duty after recovering from an injury sustained during the T20 World Cup in June. The allrounder missed the West Indies' tour of Ireland but returned to competitive cricket during the Hundred and the Women's Caribbean Premier League. Her return comes at the expense of Qiana Joseph, who has been left out of the squad following a dip in form. Dottin to Miss Zimbabwe Tour Veteran allrounder Deandra Dottin has been granted personal leave and will not be part of the West Indies squad for the Zimbabwe tour. Captain Hayley Matthews will also have a reduced role during the series. Matthews is set to lead the team in the three-match ODI series before taking personal leave and missing the subsequent three T20Is. Cricket West Indies have not yet confirmed who will captain the side during the T20I leg of the tour. The absence of both Dottin and Matthews for the T20Is will provide an opportunity for other members of the squad to take on greater responsibility. Eboni Brathwaite Earns Recall Seventeen-year-old Eboni Brathwaite has been included in the squad as Dottin's replacement. Brathwaite has already represented West Indies twice in T20Is and also featured in the Women's Caribbean Premier League. Her inclusion gives the young player another opportunity to gain international experience. Head coach Shane Deitz acknowledged the challenges of facing Zimbabwe in their own conditions while highlighting the opportunities available to the younger members of his squad. "They are a side we haven't played much, and, in their conditions, there will be some challenges," Deitz said. "We have a young squad, so this is a great opportunity for some players to step up and take their opportunity at this level." Six-Match Tour in Zimbabwe The West Indies will play three ODIs followed by three T20Is during the tour. The ODI series will begin in Harare on September 24, with the second match scheduled for September 27 and the third on September 30. The T20I series will then get underway on October 3, followed by matches on October 5 and October 7 at Highfield. The tour will give the West Indies an opportunity to build momentum across both formats while assessing several younger players ahead of future international assignments. West Indies Women Squad Hayley Matthews (capt), Aaliyah Alleyne, Shemaine Campbelle, Jahzara Claxton, Eboni Brathwaite, Afy Fletcher, Jannillea Glasgow, Realeanna Grimmond, Shawnisha Hector, Zaida James, Chinelle Henry, Mandy Mangru, Ashmini Munisar, Karishma Ramharack, Stafanie Taylor. With Henry back in the squad and several young players involved, the Zimbabwe tour will provide the West Indies with an important opportunity to strengthen their squad depth while giving emerging players valuable exposure at international level.

For only the third time in Caribbean Premier League history, the final will be contested without either Trinbago Knight Riders or Guyana Amazon Warriors, as Jamaica Kingsmen and Antigua & Barbuda Falcons prepare to battle for the 2026 title. The absence of the CPL's traditional powerhouses marks a remarkable change in the tournament's landscape. Trinbago Knight Riders, led by Nicholas Pooran, failed to reach the playoffs, while defending champions Guyana Amazon Warriors were eliminated by the Jamaica Kingsmen in Qualifier 2. The Warriors had been widely regarded as favourites to retain their title after also winning the Global Super League last month. Instead, the 2026 season has produced an unexpected final between two of the competition's newest teams. Kingsmen Complete Stunning Playoff Run Jamaica Kingsmen, playing their first CPL season, have emerged as the surprise package of the tournament. Their route to the final appeared unlikely during the group stage. The Kingsmen won only four of their ten matches and entered the playoffs on net run rate after St Lucia Kings missed out. They had also failed to beat three of the other teams that eventually featured in the playoffs during the league phase. However, their fortunes changed dramatically once the knockout stage began. The Kingsmen defeated Barbados Tridents in the Eliminator before producing another major upset against Guyana Amazon Warriors in Qualifier 2. Captain Rovman Powell played the decisive role against the Warriors, smashing an unbeaten 40 from just 17 balls to take his side into the final. The Kingsmen now stand one victory away from completing an extraordinary first season with a maiden CPL championship. Falcons Enter First CPL Final Standing in their way are the Antigua & Barbuda Falcons, who will also be appearing in their first CPL final. The Falcons were among the strongest teams during the group stage, winning six of their nine completed matches. Unlike the Kingsmen, they have had a relatively straightforward route through the playoffs. The Falcons defeated Guyana Amazon Warriors in Qualifier 1 and have since had 11 days to prepare for the final, giving them a significant period of rest before the title clash. Captain Moeen Ali has also brought considerable experience and leadership to the side. After joining the Falcons following his Hundred commitments, the 39-year-old has helped establish a strong team environment despite not producing a huge volume of runs himself. Shadab Khan in the Spotlight Pakistan's strong presence in this year's CPL has been highlighted by the performances of Shadab Khan, who has been one of the tournament's most influential all-rounders. Shadab is currently second in the Player Impact rankings for CPL 2026, with 478.94 Total Impact Points, behind only Sunil Narine. His availability was initially uncertain because of commitments elsewhere, but visa issues affecting his European travel allowed him to commit fully to the Falcons. His contribution has proved valuable as Antigua and Barbuda chase their first CPL title. For Jamaica, Hunain Shah has emerged as a key weapon with the ball. The younger brother of Pakistan fast bowler Naseem Shah has been entrusted with difficult overs, particularly at the death. He has taken eight wickets between overs 16 and 20 this season, including five with yorkers. Hunain has bowled 22 yorkers in CPL 2026, the most by any bowler in the tournament this season. Teams Unlikely to Make Changes Neither side is expected to make significant changes to their playing XI unless injuries or illness intervene. Antigua & Barbuda Falcons: Rakheem Cornwall, Evin Lewis, Amir Jangoo (wk), Hasan Nawaz, Moeen Ali (capt), Shadab Khan, Fabian Allen, Joshua James, Shamar Springer, Alzarri Joseph, Sufyan Moqim. Jamaica Kingsmen: Maaz Sadaqat, Kirk McKenzie, Keacy Carty, Saim Ayub, Rovman Powell (capt), Andre Russell, Hassan Khan, Romaine Morris (wk), Keemo Paul, Vitel Lawes, Hunain Shah. Pitch and Weather The final will be played at Kensington Oval in Barbados, with the pitch conditions yet to be confirmed. It remains unclear whether a fresh surface will be prepared for the championship match. Rain is also forecast in Bridgetown, potentially adding another variable to an already unpredictable final. Key Stats and Trivia Hunain Shah's effectiveness with the yorker has been one of the notable bowling stories of the tournament. His 22 yorkers are the most bowled in CPL 2026. Among overseas players, only Ali Khan's 37 in 2023 and Salman Irshad's 23 in the same season represent higher single-season totals. The Jamaica Kingsmen have also produced an unusual double this season, finishing fourth in the league stages of both the Pakistan Super League and the CPL before winning both knockout matches to reach the respective finals. Meanwhile, Rakheem Cornwall has a powerplay strike rate of 150.19, the best among batters with at least 50 innings in the CPL powerplay. Falcons captain Moeen Ali has also praised Joshua James for his consistency with the ball, describing the young bowler as a reliable performer who repeatedly delivers under pressure. Powell, meanwhile, summed up the Kingsmen's approach to the playoffs by warning that once a Jamaica side reaches the knockout stage, it can become a dangerous opponent. A Final Unlike Any Other The 2026 CPL final represents a significant break from recent history. Neither Trinbago Knight Riders nor Guyana Amazon Warriors will be competing for the trophy, leaving two of the league's newest franchises to fight for their first championship. For the Kingsmen, victory would complete a remarkable turnaround after an uncertain league campaign. For the Falcons, the final provides an opportunity to turn an impressive group-stage run into the franchise's first CPL title. With both teams chasing history, the Kensington Oval final promises to be a fitting conclusion to one of the most unpredictable CPL seasons yet.

Defending champions India will start as strong favourites when they take on Bangladesh in the second semi-final of the Asian Games women's cricket competition on Sunday, with Bangladesh's batting efficiency likely to be a key factor in the contest. India enter the match in excellent form after recently winning the Asia Cup, where they defeated Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. Their last T20I defeat came against Australia at the T20 World Cup in June, and they have since recorded six consecutive victories. India's bowling attack has been particularly impressive, with spinners Deepti Sharma and Shree Charani leading the way. The pair have taken a combined 74 wickets in T20 cricket this year, while seamers Nandani Sharma and Kranti Gaud have provided strong support. There were some concerns around India's middle-order batting and catching during the Asia Cup, but they have rarely been seriously tested by Asian opposition in recent months. Bangladesh Need to Cut Down on Dot Balls Bangladesh enter the semi-final after their quarter-final against China was washed out without a ball being bowled. While their bowling attack has been a major strength, their batting remains an area of concern. Bangladesh have frequently struggled to rotate the strike, allowing too many deliveries to go for no runs. That problem was evident in their Asia Cup semi-final against India, when Bangladesh played out 64 dot balls and eventually fell 40 runs short. Players such as Sobhana Mostary, Nigar Sultana and Shorna Akter possess the ability to score quickly, but Bangladesh will need a collective improvement from their batting unit if they are to challenge the defending champions. India Hold a Dominant Head-to-Head Record The rivalry has been heavily tilted in India's favour. India have won 22 of the 25 T20Is played between the two teams. In their most recent meeting, India comfortably defeated Bangladesh in the Asia Cup semi-final. Earlier in the T20 World Cup, India chased down Bangladesh's target of 137 in just 16.5 overs. Bangladesh's most recent T20I victory over India came in 2023. Marufa Akter and Shafali Verma in Focus Bangladesh will rely heavily on Marufa Akter to make an impact with the new ball. She is Bangladesh's leading wicket-taker in T20Is this year with 24 wickets and has taken at least one wicket in each of her last six T20I appearances. India, meanwhile, will look to Shafali Verma to provide another explosive start. Verma had an outstanding Asia Cup, scoring 234 runs, including half-centuries in both the semi-final and final. She also has an impressive record against Bangladesh, having scored four T20I half-centuries against them. In India's opening Asian Games match against Japan, Verma struck an unbeaten 40 from just 15 deliveries and also picked up two wickets. Team News Bangladesh are expected to retain the same XI that featured during the Asia Cup. Probable Bangladesh XI Dilara Akter, Juairiya Ferdous, Sobhana Mostary, Nigar Sultana (captain, wicketkeeper), Sharmin Akter, Shorna Akter, Fahima Khatun, Nahida Akter, Rabeya Khan, Sultana Khatun, Marufa Akter. India made one notable change against Japan, with offspinner Shreyanka Patil returning after a three-month absence caused by an ankle injury. G Kamalini is expected to bat at No. 3 after opening against Japan. Probable India XI Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma, G Kamalini, Harmanpreet Kaur (captain), Richa Ghosh (wicketkeeper), Bharti Fulmali, Deepti Sharma, Shreyanka Patil, Kranti Gaud, N Shree Charani, Nandani Sharma. Bangladesh Face a Tough Challenge India's recent form, depth in both batting and bowling, and dominant record against Bangladesh make them the clear favourites on paper. For Bangladesh, however, the key will be to avoid another innings dominated by dot balls. If their top order can rotate the strike more consistently and their bowlers maintain the pressure that has been a feature of their recent performances, Bangladesh will have an opportunity to make India work hard for a place in the final.