Category: Cricket

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has been ranked third among the top 10 franchise leagues around the globe, according to rankings released by the World Cricketers’ Association (WCA) on Thursday.

According to the WCA, England’s ‘The Hundred’ and South Africa’s ‘SA20’ were ranked first and second, respectively.

India’s marquee T20 competition earned the most points for average payment and payment reliability, but it could not secure the top spot due to lagging in areas like ‘right to organize’ and ‘dispute resolution’.

Meanwhile, Australia’s Big Bash League (BBL) and the Pakistan Super League (PSL) held the fourth and fifth spots, respectively.

After rankings were announced, WCA CEO Tom Moffat highlighted the growth of domestic leagues while stressing the need for improvement.

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“WCA is fortunate to have a birds eye view of the global game, and daily engagements with players competing in leagues around the world. The growth of the domestic leagues landscape has been overwhelmingly positive for our sport, but it has the potential to be even better,” he said.

“We want all sanctioned leagues to be successful, and to provide fair protections and standards for people within them,” Moffat added.

He further remarked on reaching out to each league to work on the sport’s betterment and to promote its ongoing professionalisation.

“We have reached out to each league, inviting them to work with us to meet best practice benchmarks, and to continue to advance the professionalisation and growth of our sport,” he continued

“We intend to provide consistent updates, including on both good practice, and on issues, as they arise during the year,” he concluded.

Top 10 franchise leagues

The Hundred – 75.2
SA20 – 68
IPL – 62.6
BBL – 62.5
PSL – 48
MLC – 43
ILT20 – 39.1
CPL – 38.9
Abu Dhabi T10 – 30.1
BPL – 22.6

READ: Paul Stirling quits as Ireland T20I captain

DUBLIN: Paul Stirling has stepped down as Ireland T20I captain, ending his three-year term.  

The decision came on Thursday after a month of Ireland’s T20 World Cup campaign.

Stirling’s campaign ended prematurely after he sustained a right knee injury during the Australia clash, ruling him out of the tournament. In his absence, Lorcan Tucker led the side.

Following the announcement, he expressed pride in leading Ireland in T20Is and thanked his fellow players for their support during his tenure as captain.

“It has been a tremendous honour to lead Ireland in this format and something I have been incredibly proud to do,” he said in a statement.

“Captaining your country is a privilege that carries great responsibility, and I’m very grateful for the trust and support I have received during my time in the role,” the most capped player in T20I history continued.

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Despite relinquishing the captaincy, the 35-year-old still aimed to lead the side in the 50-over format.

“While I will be stepping away from the T20 captaincy, I remain fully committed to the Ireland team and will continue in my role as ODI captain.”

I still have a huge amount of ambition as a player and feel this decision will allow me to fully focus on being the best version of myself and making the strongest possible contribution on the field,” he concluded.

Overall, Paul Stirling captained Ireland in 48 T20Is, winning 20 and losing 26, with two fixtures ending in no results.

The Belfast-born batting all-rounder led the side in 2024 and 206 T20 World Cups, with the team exiting in the group stage on both occasions.

READ: Bangladesh players receive conditional NOCs for PSL 11

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has granted No-Objection Certificates (NOCs) to its players for the upcoming Pakistan Super League (PSL) season 11, but with strict conditions to ensure national commitments remain unaffected.

According to reports, the board has issued partial NOCs, making it clear that player participation in the T20 league will be subject to availability for Bangladesh’s crucial home ODI series against New Zealand.

A BCB official underlined the importance of the 50-over fixtures, stating that the series carries significant weight in the context of World Cup qualification, prompting the board to carefully manage player workloads and availability.

New Zealand are scheduled to play three ODIs in Bangladesh on April 17, 20 and 23, followed by a three-match T20I series on April 27, 29 and May 2.

The national side’s preparatory camp is set to begin on March 27, which means several players will initially miss out due to PSL commitments.

Six Bangladesh players, Mustafizur Rahman, Parvez Hossain Emon, Shariful Islam, Nahid Rana, Tanzid Hasan and Rishad Hossain, have secured PSL contracts and will feature in the early phase of the tournament.

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However, the board has imposed clear timelines on their participation. Mustafizur Rahman’s NOC has been split into two phases, allowing him to play from March 26 to April 12 before returning for national duty.

He will then be exempt from the T20I series against New Zealand and is expected to rejoin the PSL from April 24 to May 3.

Meanwhile, Tanzid Hasan, Shariful Islam, Nahid Rana and Rishad Hossain have been granted NOCs only until April 12, ensuring their availability for the ODI series.

Parvez Hossain Emon has received a slightly extended window, with clearance valid until April 21.

“The board has issued partial NOCs to all the players. They have been instructed to remain available for the ODI series,” a BCB official confirmed.

READ: Peshawar Zalmi unveil ‘Next Gen’ jersey ahead of PSL 11

Former champions Peshawar Zalmi have unveiled their new jersey for the upcoming Pakistan Super League (PSL) season 11, introducing a bold “Next Gen” design that reflects a shift towards modern aesthetics and digital culture.

The franchise revealed the jersey through a video on their official social media platforms, highlighting a striking blend of neon and electric gradients combined with a hexagonal matrix pattern.

“Presenting the “𝐙𝐚𝐥𝐦𝐢 𝐍𝐞𝐱𝐭 𝐆𝐞𝐧” Jerseys for #HBLPSL11. Knitted with a bold fusion of neon & electric gradients and a hexagonal matrix, which is very tactically designed to reflect the art of digital illustration and the fearless, energetic colors of generationZ,” the video caption stated.

Presenting the “𝐙𝐚𝐥𝐦𝐢 𝐍𝐞𝐱𝐭 𝐆𝐞𝐧” Jerseys for #HBLPSL11

Knitted with a bold fusion of neon & electric gradients and a hexagonal matrix, which is very tactically designed to reflect the art of digital illustration and the fearless energetic colors of generationZ.… pic.twitter.com/1XX05mBhLq

— Peshawar Zalmi (@PeshawarZalmi) March 18, 2026

The concept, described as “Zalmi Next Gen,” is designed to capture the energy and creativity associated with Generation Z, while incorporating elements inspired by digital illustration.

Zalmi’s traditional yellow remains the base of the home kit, now enhanced with vibrant shades of purple, pink and cyber tones.

According to the franchise, the updated palette symbolises a transition from tradition to technology, with neon accents representing innovation and evolving digital culture.

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Alongside the home jersey, the team confirmed they will retain their black away kit, while also revealing a green training jersey as part of their updated lineup for the season.

Beyond the kit launch, the franchise is also set to mark a historic milestone during PSL 11. For the first time, Zalmi will play a home fixture at their home, Imran Khan Stadium, as Peshawar prepares to host its maiden PSL match.

The venue will stage an afternoon clash on March 28, where Zalmi are scheduled to face Rawalpindiz, making it a landmark occasion for cricket fans in the region.

Peshawar Zalmi squad for PSL 11

Babar Azam (c), Sufiyan Muqeem, Abdul Samad, Ali Raza, Aaron Hardie, Aamir Jamal, Mohammad Haris, Khalid Usman, Abdul Subhan, James Vince, Michael Bracewell, Kusal Mendis, Iftikhar Ahmed, Nahid Rana, Mirza Tahir Baig, Shahnawaz Dahani, Farhan Yousaf, Muhammad Basit and Shoriful Islam.

READ: Fakhar Zaman addresses fitness concerns after National T20 Cup participation

Pakistan opener Fakhar Zaman has addressed the fitness concerns that sparked a public debate over his omission from the national side’s recent ODI series against Bangladesh.

The left-handed batter found himself at the centre of controversy after Pakistan’s selection committee, represented by Aaqib Javed, cited fitness issues as the reason behind his exclusion.

The matter gained traction when former pacer Abdur Rouf questioned the decision publicly, after Fakhar participated in the ongoing National T20 Cup.

Fakhar Zaman, while playing for Abbottabad Region, took a brilliant diving catch against Lahore Whites at the Imran Khan Cricket Stadium on Tuesday.

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Rouf had taken to social media to criticise the selectors, highlighting what he perceived as a contradiction between Fakhar being declared unfit and his on-field participation.

“A day ago, our selection committee declared him injured and demanded an inquiry. What a great mind and visionary people we have to run our cricket,” Rouf wrote with the picture of Fakhar’s diving catch.

Responding directly, Fakhar clarified that he was not fully fit for the demands of 50-over cricket at the time the ODI squad was finalised. He explained that his return to competitive cricket only came after successfully clearing fitness tests.

“Abdur Rouf Bhai, I was not 100% fit to play 50-over games. In that case, Aaqib Javed was right. I am playing these games after clearing the fitness tests on the 15th,” Fakhar stated.

His response effectively defended the selection committee’s stance, suggesting that the timing of his recovery played a crucial role in his omission.

The exchange between the two cricketers concluded on a positive note, with Rouf acknowledging Fakhar’s commitment and reiterating support for national players.

He also indicated that player well-being remains the top priority, moving to defuse the situation.

“Great catch anyway. No need to worry. We are here to support our players like you. Nothing is more important than you guys. I am deleting [the post],” he stated.

READ: Champions League: Bayern Munich edge Atalanta to set up Real Madrid clash

Renowned singer Atif Aslam will perform the official anthem of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 11, marking the start of a new era for the league.

The news was announced on the PSL social handles, confirming that the song will be performed by Atif Aslam

“A new era. A legendary voice. Atif Aslam leads the HBL PSL anthem,” the caption wrote.

It is worth mentioning that Atif Aslam previously featured in the seventh edition with the anthem ‘Agey Dekh’ alongside Aima Baig.

Previously, Ali Zafar performed the anthems of the first three editions of the tournament — 2016, 2017, 2018 before returning in 2024.

His 2017 anthem, Ab Khel Jamay Ga, remains one of the most popular cricket anthems in Pakistan.

For those unaware, PSL 11 will begin on March 26 across six venues in Pakistan, marking the start of a new era with the addition of two new teams.

Overall, 44 matches will be played, with the opening match scheduled between Lahore Qalandars and Hyderabad Kingsmen at Gaddafi Stadium.

Each team will play 10 matches, with the top 4 teams advancing to the playoffs. The final of the event will be played on May 3 at Gaddafi Stadium.

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The fixture list includes six double-headers, three of which will be played at Gaddafi Stadium. This will also be the first time that Faisalabad and Peshawar will be staging matches alongside Karachi, Lahore, Multan, and Rawalpindi.

Gaddafi Stadium will host the most matches (15), followed by Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium (11) and Faisalabad Iqbal Stadium (7).

Meanwhile, the National Bank Stadium in Karachi will host six matches while Multan Cricket Stadium will host four.

Peshawar’s Imran Khan Cricket Stadium is set to host a single fixture between Peshawar Zalmi and RawalPINDIZ on March 28.

READ: Buttler opens up on retirement after ‘poor’ T20 World Cup

Jos Buttler is refusing to accept his England career is over despite admitting he had a “poor tournament” at the recent T20 World Cup.

Widely regarded as one of the outstanding white-ball batter of his generation, Buttler managed just 87 runs in eight innings at the tournament as England reached the semi-finals before losing to co-hosts and eventual champions India.

“Obviously I had a poor tournament, which is disappointing,” Buttler, who remains on an England and Wales central contract, said on his ‘For the Love of Cricket’ podcast with former England fast bowler Stuart Broad.

“But I have been playing some of the best cricket of my (career) in recent years, so hopefully I can get back to playing my best.

“I certainly have ambitions (to play for England again), but no longer being a captain, I am not a selector and whatever, so what will be, will be.”

Buttler, 35, is set to play for Gujarat Titans in the upcoming Indian Premier League and hopes time away after the World Cup “up the mountains” in France with his family will leave him feeling reinvigorated.

“I couldn’t have been further away from cricket, which for me at the time was just perfect,” said Buttler. “It is exactly what I needed.”

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“Obviously the tournament didn’t go personally how I would have liked it to go, and I just felt like I needed some space from cricket and not to think about the game, and I could not have been further away from cricket where I was in that week.”

Buttler, a member of England’s 2019 one-day international World Cup-winning team and also the skipper for their T20 triumph in Australia three years later, stated that he is starting to reflect on his performance.

“It was really refreshing –- I really enjoyed it, a complete sort of release, and slowly but surely, I would say at the start of this week, (I am) just starting to reflect a bit and have a few thoughts about what is important to me and my cricket, and why it probably didn’t go quite as I would’ve liked.

“There’s elements that I actually don’t really know exactly. For all your best intentions and hard work and efforts to perform, it just didn’t work, and sometimes that is OK as well.

“That is something I have had to realise. It wasn’t for a lack of effort, it just didn’t quite happen,” he concluded.

READ: West Indies players depart India on commercial flights

West Indies players have begun leaving India in batches on commercial flights after delays to a planned charter flight following the conclusion of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. 

Cricket West Indies confirmed the players’ departure in a press release, raising concerns about the team’s travel amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East.

The squad was left stranded following their last Super Eight fixture on March 1 against India.

Their head coach, Daren Sammy, also posted on social media regarding the situation, urging attention to the matter.

“As is customary for both men’s and women’s ICC World Cups, all travel and accommodation arrangements for participating teams are coordinated and managed by the ICC,” the statement wrote.

The charter flight, intended to transport both the West Indies and South Africa teams, was repeatedly delayed,” it added.

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The board said that after completing their matches, the squad remained in India for nine days while awaiting travel on the ICC-organized charter.

“After completing play, the West Indies squad remained in India for nine (9) days awaiting travel,” the board explained.

“However, ongoing uncertainty surrounding the ICC-organized charter, as a result of global tensions and aviation regulations, made the situation increasingly distressing,” the board said.

Cricket West Indies said it advised the ICC that waiting for charter arrangements was no longer prudent due to player safety concerns, adding that efforts were made with the ICC to secure commercial flights, with some players already departing and the rest scheduled to leave on March 10 and 11.

“Cricket West Indies appreciates the concern and interest of fans and key stakeholders in the resolution of this matter and wishes to thank all parties for their support and patience,” it concluded.

READ: BCCI announces record prize money for victorious Indian team

MUMBAI: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday announced a whopping $14 million in prize money for India’s men’s cricket team after they lifted the T20 World Cup for a record third time.

The co‑hosts and pre‑tournament favourites swept aside New Zealand by 96 runs in Sunday’s final in Ahmedabad to become the first team to retain the trophy and the first to win it on home soil.

Cricket commands an unrivalled following in the world’s most populous country, with top players enjoying star status and the game serving as a rare unifying force in an otherwise diverse nation.

BCCI praised the players, support staff, and selectors for the “historic achievement” as it announced the cash reward.

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The victory cemented India’s place “among the most successful teams in the history of the format”, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia said in a statement.

The prize money will be shared among the entire team, including coaches and support staff.

The announced prize money is roughly $3m higher than the tournament’s overall prize pot of $11.25m.

The Indian team will separately receive $2.34 million from the International Cricket Council, while runners-up New Zealand will earn $1.17 million.

Midnight celebrations broke out across the country on Sunday as delirious fans in blue Indian shirts took to the streets, beating drums and dancing to Bollywood hits.

READ: Arshdeep Singh fined for Daryl Mitchell incident

Multan Sultans have strengthened the squad with the signing of emerging all-rounder Muhammad Shahzad ahead of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 11.  

The franchise announced the signing through social media handles in a press release statement.

“The Multan Sultans are proud to announce the signing of dynamic all-rounder Muhammad Shahzad ahead of the upcoming Pakistan Super League (PSL) season,” the statement read.

“Hailing from Dera Ghazi Khan (DG Khan), Shahzad’s addition to the squad reinforces the franchise’s deep commitment to identifying, nurturing, and showcasing the immense cricketing talent found right here in South Punjab,” it added.

 

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A post shared by Multan Sultans (@multansultans)

Shahzad, 22, played six matches for Islamabad United in PSL 10. Overall, he has played 23 T20s, scoring 370 runs at a strike rate of 126.71.

Following the announcement, the new owner of the franchise, Gohar Shah, hailed Shahzad’s talent, calling him the next big all-rounder from the global stage.

“It is incredibly important for us to sign players who truly know what it means to play for our badge, and Muhammad Shahzad embodies the spirit and passion of South Punjab,” he said.

“He is a phenomenal talent, and I firmly believe he has the potential to become one of the top all-rounders in the world. We cannot wait to be a part of his growth and his journey, and we are fully committed to giving him the platform he needs to shine,” Gohar added.

The PSL 11 is set to begin on March 26, with the opening match scheduled between the defending champions, Lahore Qalandars, and the newly added franchise, Hyderabad Kingsmen.

Overall, 44 matches will be played in the event, including the final.

Multan Sultans Squad

Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Ahmed Daniyal, Saad Masood, Steve Smith, Jahanzaib Sultan, Sahibzada Farhan, Ashton Turner (c), Peter Siddle, Tabraiz Shamsi, Lachlan Shaw, Delano Potgieter, Josh Phillippe, Shan Masood, Momin Qamar, Muhammad Shahzad and Muhammad Awais Zafar.

READ: Arshdeep Singh fined for Daryl Mitchell incident