Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Mohsin Naqvi confirmed that investigations into players Mohammad Rizwan and Imam-ul-Haq are nearing completion and findings are expected soon. Both players are allowed to continue participating in domestic cricket during the inquiry process. Naqvi also mentioned that the announcement of new central contracts has reached its final stage, after previous delays.

Harry Brook emphasized his lack of involvement in the 2018 Australian ball-tampering scandal during recent interviews. He highlighted his youth at the time, stressing he has never witnessed ball tampering. Instead of engaging in controversy, Brook directed attention towards the upcoming ODI series against Australia. He expressed excitement about the England-Australia rivalry and the challenges ahead.

Australia is in full swing, gearing up for the 2027 ODI World Cup and assessing their batting options for future matches. Stand-in captain Mitchell Marsh hints at a solid core that could feature heavily. The opening ODI against England in Perth is set to reveal more about Australia's strategy as they rest senior fast bowlers, giving younger talents a chance to shine.

Recent revelations have resurfaced surrounding the infamous 2018 Australian ball-tampering scandal, implicating David Saker, the former bowling coach. Allegedly, Saker counseled players Steve Smith and Cameron Bancroft to hide the use of sandpaper. Usman Khawaja's memoir reveals that the conspiracy involved the broader team, as Saker reportedly pushed for innovative approaches to achieve reverse swing, with insightful exchanges providing a glimpse into the team's mentality at the time.

India Under-19 triumphed over Afghanistan to secure their spot in the ACC Men's U19 Asia Cup 2026 final. India's chase was magnificent as they reached 230 runs with only 2 wickets down, outpacing Afghanistan's score of 228 runs and finishing the game in 36.5 overs. Captain Lakshya Raichandani delivered a stellar performance with 93 runs.

Saqib Khan made a notable impact during his Test debut by taking seven wickets against Sri Lanka. He dismissed key players, including Captain Kusal Mendis and Dhananjaya de Silva, to help Pakistan regain control. With a slender first-innings lead of 12 runs, Sri Lanka was bowled out for 446. Pakistan's second innings saw them at 57 for one before rain halted play.

In a remarkable feat, Kusal Mendis has etched his name in cricket history as the first Sri Lankan to score a century on debut as Test captain, amassing an impressive 117 not out. His stellar performance came at a crucial moment, aiding Sri Lanka in recovering from a challenging position.

James Anderson has signed with Surrey for the upcoming 2027 county season following a long stay at Lancashire. After a notable 2026 season where he took 50 wickets, Anderson's contract was not renewed. At 44, he remains eager to contribute both his playing skills and mentoring experiences to younger teammates. He aims to help new players improve and advance to the national level.

Aakash Chopra has raised crucial points about the Delhi Capitals as they gear up for the IPL season. He expressed worries over the unresolved captaincy situation and questioned the efficiency of their bowling attack. Moreover, Chopra suggested that Rishabh Pant should be prioritized in the batting order to maximize their performance. The uncertainty surrounding key bowlers’ availability adds to the challenges, requiring strategic foresight from the team management.

Aakash Chopra has raised crucial points about the Delhi Capitals as they gear up for the IPL season. He expressed worries over the unresolved captaincy situation and questioned the efficiency of their bowling attack. Moreover, Chopra suggested that Rishabh Pant should be prioritized in the batting order to maximize their performance. The uncertainty surrounding key bowlers’ availability adds to the challenges, requiring strategic foresight from the team management.

Virat Kohli brought match-like intensity to India's training session in Mount Maunganui, turning the nets into a fiercely competitive contest with Arshdeep Singh and Kuldeep Yadav. From animated exchanges and playful banter to sharing bowling insights, the former India captain's refusal to switch off his competitive instinct stood out.

India are considering releasing Gurnoor Brar from the ODI squad after Friday's match to bolster their preparations for the upcoming Test series against New Zealand. Meanwhile, Ruturaj Gaikwad is likely to replace Shubman Gill as an opener for the fourth ODI, with Ishan Kishan expected to continue in the middle order.

The controversy has returned to the spotlight after former Australia batter Usman Khawaja made fresh claims in his autobiography, "Sabr". Khawaja alleged that all members of the Australian team on the 2018 South Africa tour knew about the plan to tamper with the ball.

Khawaja's book, 'Sabr', released on Tuesday, has brought the controversy surrounding the Cape Town Test against South Africa in 2018 back into focus. In the book, Khawaja claimed that the entire Australian team knew about the plan to use sandpaper to alter the condition of the ball.

India lead the five-match series 2-0 after winning the first two games. The third ODI in Hamilton was abandoned due to rain. Brett Randell has played 145 professional matches, including five for New Zealand A. He recently returned from a stint with English county side Derbyshire in the County Championship.

TOI has learnt that incumbent captain Axar Patel has expressed his reluctance to lead the team after going through two tough seasons.

Punjab Kings co-owner Ness Wadia opens up about the blockbuster Hardik Pandya-Arshdeep Singh trade, admitting that letting go of the India pacer was a difficult decision. Wadia explains the cricketing rationale behind acquiring Pandya, reveals how the negotiations unfolded and outlines the franchise's long-term ambitions of building a championship-winning team.

In IPL's Biggest Trade Yet, Punjab Get Their Superstar All-Rounder; MI Get Missing Piece To Support Bumrah

Stuart MacGill has acknowledged using sandpaper on the ball during his cricket career, indicating it was not a deliberate cheating strategy. His admission follows recent statements made by Usman Khawaja in his memoir, which has reopened discussions on Sandpapergate. Cricket Australia maintains that the wider team was unaware of any wrongdoing during the 2018 Cape Town Test.