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Injured pace spearheads Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins bowled in the nets on Tuesday in a major boost for Australia ahead of the day-night second Ashes Test against England next week.

Hazlewood had not been seen since tweaking his hamstring in a Sheffield Shield clash six days before the opening Test in Perth.

He missed that extraordinary game, which Australia won inside two days by eight wickets on Saturday, with Brendan Doggett taking his place.

Skipper Cummins was also absent with a lingering lower back injury, replaced by Scott Boland.

Local media posted pictures of both men training at Cricket NSW headquarters in Sydney during New South Wales’ Sheffield Shield match against Tasmania.

The choice of balls they used was telling, with Cummins steaming in with a pink ball and Hazlewood more reserved with a red one.

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While Hazlewood remains a major doubt for the Brisbane Test on December 4, Cummins said over the weekend he was “half a chance” after an impressive stint in the nets in Perth.

Australia coach Andrew McDonald told reporters no decisions would be made until closer to match day.

“I know that he’ll be available at some point during the series,” McDonald said of Hazlewood.

“We’ve got a little bit of that early rehab to go through to formulate where he may plug into the series, but we expect him to take some part in the series.”

He was more upbeat about Cummins.

“There’s a lot of positives, but now it’s just really building that resilience within the soft tissue and making sure that we’re not putting him in harm’s way in terms of accelerating it too much,” he said.

READ: Pakistan-Sri Lanka eye T20I series ahead of 2026 World Cup

LAHORE: Sri Lanka Cricket and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) are in talks over a potential bilateral T20I series ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026.

The 20-team mega event is likely to be played from February 8 to March 7 across five venues in India and two in Sri Lanka.

According to the reports, the boards are in discussion regarding the three-match shorter format series, with the decision to be announced in a few days’ time.

Sources privy to the matter say the series’ potential timeline could be January 8 to 12, with all fixtures to be held at the Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium.

It is worth noting that the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo and the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium will be unavailable due to upgradation work for the T20 World Cup 2026.

Due to this reason, SLC also postponed the sixth edition of the Lanka Premier League (LPL).

The Premier League was initially scheduled to be played in the November-December window.

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The T20I series will provide the Green Shirts ample time to prepare for the mega event and adapt to the conditions, as they will play all their games in Sri Lanka under the Hybrid Model— a model between Pakistan and India to play their ICC matches at a neutral venue.

For those unaware, Pakistan is currently hosting the Islanders and Zimbabwe in a T20I tri-series, which will run until November 29 at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.

Pakistan has already reached the final of the series after defeating Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe.

Pakistan, Zimbabwe, Sri Lanka T20I Tri-Series Schedule:

• November 18: Pakistan vs Zimbabwe
• November 20: Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe
• November 22: Pakistan vs Sri Lanka
• November 23: Pakistan vs Zimbabwe
• November 25: Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe
• November 27: Pakistan vs Sri Lanka
• November 29: Final

READ: Quetta Gladiators renew PSL ownership rights for next decade

Pep Guardiola said he was “embarrassed and ashamed” of his behaviour after confronting a cameraman following Manchester City’s damaging 2-1 loss at Newcastle on Saturday.

The City manager reacted angrily after he was filmed close up following the final whistle, when he was involved in discussions with Newcastle player Bruno Guimaraes and match officials.

Pep Guardiola had been angered by the decision to award what proved to be Newcastle’s winning goal in the 70th minute at St James’ Park, with City believing goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma had been fouled.

The City boss, speaking Monday at a press conference on the eve of his team’s Champions League match against Bayer Leverkusen, said he had apologised for his behaviour.

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“I feel embarrassed and ashamed when I see it,” he said. “I don’t like it. I apologised to the cameraman after one second.

“I am who I am. Even after 1,000 games I’m not a perfect person. I made a huge mistake…. The reason why is I want to defend my team and my club.”

City’s fourth Premier League defeat of the season left them third in the table, seven points behind leaders Arsenal.

But Guardiola said the Newcastle reverse was “immediately forgotten” as he turned his attention to the Champions League.

City are fourth in the 36-team league phase after a strong start to their European campaign.

Midfielders Rodri and Mateo Kovacic are unavailable for Tuesday’s match against Leverkusen.

Guardiola said he did not have a timescale for Rodri’s return but it would not be long before he was back in action.

“We will wait a little more to be sure he is fine,” he said.

READ: Quetta Gladiators renew PSL ownership rights for next decade

LAHORE: Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise Quetta Gladiators on Monday extended the franchise agreement with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for another ten years.

The agreement comes after a valuation conducted by a globally renowned audit and advisory organisation.

With this, Quetta became the third team to renew its agreement with the cricket board, after Lahore Qalandars and Peshawar Zalmi.

Following the agreement extension, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi hailed Quetta Gladiators’ role in promoting PSL across Pakistan.

“I am delighted that Quetta Gladiators will continue their journey with their current owners for another decade. Mr. Nadeem Omar and his team have played a vital role in building a loyal fan base and elevating the franchise’s stature both locally and internationally,” he said.

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Naqvi also praised Gladiators owner Nadeem Omar for his passion towards the game.

“Mr. Nadeem Omar is a thorough gentlemen, professional and a cricket aficionado. His renewed commitment speaks volumes about their faith in the HBL PSL’s upward trajectory and the league’s global standing.

We look forward to deepening this partnership and working together to achieve even greater milestones for Pakistan cricket,” the chairman concluded.

PSL Chief Executive Officer Salman Naseer also lavished praise on the management and owners of Quetta Gladiators for collaborating and extending the partnership for the next 10 years.

“The Gladiators’ dedication, competitive spirit and unwavering belief in the HBL PSL have helped shape the identity of the league over the years. We are thrilled to continue our collaboration with Nadeem Omar and his management for the next decade.

“Mr. Nadeem Omar’s contributions go way beyond the HBL PSL. His true passion has always been Cricket and its development in Pakistan. We are excited to have them onboard and for this next chapter of HBL PSL and Gladiators’ partnership.”

READ: Pakistan’s Aisam-ul-Haq announces retirement from tennis

Pakistan’s tennis ace Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi has called time on his professional career, bringing down the curtain on a journey spanning over two decades.

The 45-year-old announced his retirement during the inaugural ATP Challenger Cup in Islamabad.

On this occasion, Aisam reflected on his early days and lauded his family for their unwavering support during his career.

“My parents were my real strength. Their belief, sacrifices , and constant encouragement shaped me into the player I became,” he said.

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He also shared a touching memory about his longtime coach Haseeb Aslam, revealing that he had initially refused to train him, but later agreed at the insistence of Aisam’s mother.

He expressed deep gratitude to all his coaches, mentors, fellow players, and the Pakistan sports media for standing by him throughout his career.

The ceremony also featured the formal introduction of both international and local tennis players, who will be participating in the ATP Challenger Islamabad tournament, making it a historic day for tennis in Pakistan.

Aisam-ul-Haq’s retirement marks the end of an era in Pakistan tennis history, as he leaves behind a legacy of international success, inspiration for young players, and immense contribution to the sport’s growth in the country.

READ: Maresca downplays Chelsea’s Estevao comparison with Yamal

Enzo Maresca has played down comparisons between rival teenage wingers Estevao and Lamine Yamal on the eve of Chelsea’s Champions League clash against Barcelona on Tuesday.

Estevao, 18, has caught the eye since arriving at Stamford Bridge in July, with nine goals for club and country.

Chelsea manager Maresca was asked at his pre-match press conference on Monday whether Spain international Yamal, just three months younger than Estevao, would be a good role model for his player.

But the Italian said the Brazilian was already established at the top level despite his tender years.

“Estevao is already playing at a high level, he is already in the starting eleven with Brazil,” Maresca told reporters. “For sure he is very young, he can do many things better, but we are very happy with him.

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“It’s nice for people that love football to watch players like Estevao, like Lamine Yamal, like (Barcelona midfielder) Pedri. This is the beauty of football.”

Maresca said Estevao must shut out the noise.

“He is going to be for sure an important player for this club,” he said. “For the future, no doubt.

“He has to be happy. He has not to think about being better than this player or the other player.

“He has just to be better than himself day by day. Try to work hard, improve.”

Maresca added Chelsea forward Cole Palmer was making good progress after suffering a toe injury but that he was unlikely to be available to face Barcelona or Arsenal this coming weekend.

“Cole is wearing a (protective) boot,” Maresca said. “We don’t know when he will be back but for sure it will be soon.

“He’s already on the pitch, he’s already touching the ball and the feeling (for him) is good.

Barcelona are 11th in the league phase of Europe’s top club competition with seven points after four matches — the same number as Chelsea.

Maresca said he had been strongly influenced by the possession-based style of Pep Guardiola’s Barcelona, who were twice champions of Europe during the now Manchester City manager’s time in charge at the Nou Camp between 2008 and 2012.

“I decided to be a manager because of Pep’s team, Barcelona, years ago,” explained Maresca.

“Now, if clubs or teams decide with different style, I said many times that any club, any team can decide in the way they want to play. I chose mine years ago and this will be the way I like to watch my team in football and also in the future.”

READ: Usman Tariq credits former Australia all-rounder for turnaround

RAWALPINDI: Pakistan off-spinner Usman Tariq has credited former Australian all-rounder Shane Watson for standing by him through the most challenging phase of his cricketing career.

Speaking in the post-match press conference, Usman shed light on his difficult time and stated that former Australian all-rounder Shan Watson gave him confidence.

“When the action call-up happened, it was the toughest phase of my career. I wasn’t sure what was going to happen, but my family stood firmly behind me — even offering to cover the expenses if I had to go to Dubai for the assessment,” he said.

“Shane Watson kept reassuring me, saying he had seen many players go through similar cases and that I didn’t need to panic. It was tough, but Alhamdulillah, everything is clear now,” Tariq revealed.

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At the start of this year, Watson stepped down as the head coach of Quetta Gladiators. He was named as the coach of the franchise in 2024.

The 44-year-old remained instrumental to the team’s success, both as a player and coach, as he propelled the Gladiators into the playoffs for the first time in 2024 after four previous failed attempts.

For the unversed, Usman has been reported multiple times for his suspect bowling action. The last time his action was reported in the PSL 10 was during the Quetta Gladiators match against Lahore Qalandars.

The spinner, originally hailing from Nowshera, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK), was reported by on-field umpires Ahsan Raza and Chris Brown.

As per PSL regulations, he continued bowling in future matches; however, if he were reported again, he would have to undergo clearance from an International Cricket Council (ICC) accredited lab before bowling again.

Notably, this was the second time that the spinner was reported during a PSL game. Earlier, he was reported in PSL 9 during his side’s clash against Karachi Kings.

A day earlier, Usman starred in Pakistan’s victory over Zimbabwe by a hefty margin of 69 runs.

The right-arm off-spinner, who was playing only in his second T20I, picked up a four-wicket haul, including a hat-trick. With this, he became the fourth Pakistani player to take a hat-trick in the limited-overs format.

READ: Salman Ali Agha breaks world record, surpasses Dravid, Yousuf, Dhoni

LAHORE: The Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise Peshawar Zalmi on Monday formally renewed its agreement with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), securing the rights for another decade.

The 2017 edition winners will remain with their current owners for the next 10 years after they renew the franchise agreement, the PCB announced in a statement.

The owner of the Peshawar Zalmi was among the first to prolog their franchise agreement at the market value following a thorough valuation process.

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi highlighted Peshawar Zalmi’s role in fostering the league’s growth over the years and hailed Zalmi as a brand that has played a significant role in Pakistan’s sporting landscape.

“I am delighted that Peshawar Zalmi will continue under the leadership of Mr. Javed Afridi, whose commitment, professionalism, and passion have played a fundamental role in elevating the Zalmi brand into one of the most dynamic and admired sporting entities in Pakistan,” he said.

“Javed Afridi’s vision has not only strengthened the Zalmi franchise but has also contributed immensely to the growth of the HBL PSL. His decision to renew reflects a strong belief in the league’s future potential and continued success,” Naqvi continued.

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He hoped to continue the long-standing partnership with the franchise that aims to nurture Pakistan cricket.

“The PCB looks forward to building on this partnership as we collectively work towards further advancement of Pakistan cricket.”

Meanwhile, PSL Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Salman Naseer has also shared his thoughts on extending their long-standing partnership with Peshawar Zalmi.

“Peshawar Zalmi’s energy, inclusivity, and deep connection with fans have been central to shaping the identity of the HBL PSL,” he said.

“We are extremely pleased to continue this journey with Mr. Javed Afridi, who has consistently demonstrated unwavering commitment to strengthening the league and nurturing emerging talent,” Naseer added.

He further lauded Javed Afridi’s approach for taking the league to the next level and expressed his excitement.

“His forward-thinking approach and support have been vital to the HBL PSL’s evolution, and we are excited about what the next decade of this partnership will bring, ” he concluded.

READ: Jansen takes six as South Africa close on Test series win over India

Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise Lahore Qalandars will continue under the stewardship of their current owners for another ten years after formally renewing their agreement with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Monday.

In a statement, the PCB confirmed that the franchise rights for the PSL’s most valuable team will remain with its existing management for the next decade, marking a major milestone for both the Qalandars and the league.

The three-time champions, who sit alongside Islamabad United as the only teams to lift the trophy thrice, were among the first franchises to renew their deal at the market valuation determined by global audit giant Ernst & Young.

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi lauded the Qalandars’ leadership and long-term commitment, crediting Atif Rana and Sameen Rana for transforming the team into a nationwide and global cricketing brand.

“It gives me immense pleasure that Lahore Qalandars will continue to stay with its current owners,” Naqvi said.

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“Atif Rana and Sameen Rana have worked extremely hard to turn this franchise into a household name across Pakistan and a reputable brand around the world. Their decision is a testament of confidence in the power and pull of the HBL PSL.”

Mohsin Naqvi added that the Qalandars have been central to the PSL’s growth, both on and off the field, contributing significantly to player development and domestic cricket uplift across the country.

PSL Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Salman Naseer echoed the sentiment, praising the Qalandars’ role in shaping the league’s identity over the past decade.

“The Qalandars’ passion, energy and belief in the HBL PSL have been instrumental in shaping the league’s spirit and inspiring millions of fans,” Naseer said.

“Their commitment to nurturing talent and elevating Pakistan cricket is commendable. We’re excited to continue this incredible journey over the next 10 years and to build an even brighter, bolder future for the PSL.”

READ: Jansen takes six as South Africa close on Test series win over India

GUWAHATI: Towering pacer Marco Jansen took six wickets to put South Africa in sight of a first Test series win in India in 25 years after bundling out the hosts for 201 in the second match on Monday.

Replying to South Africa’s 489, India were 288 behind in their first innings, but the tourists did not enforce the follow-on and decided to bat again on day three in Guwahati.

After winning the first Test in the two-match series in Kolkata, South Africa are closing on a first series win in India since Hansie Cronje’s team triumphed in 2000.

India are under massive pressure once more, having suffered their fourth defeat in six Tests at home in the first match.

A dominant South Africa reached 26-0 at stumps to extend their lead to 314 in the second innings.

Left-handed Ryan Rickelton, on 13, and Aiden Markram, on 12, were batting when bad light ended the day’s play in the northeastern city, where the sun sets early.

Jansen, a left-arm quick, claimed his fourth five-wicket Test haul before wrapping up the Indian innings with his sixth strike of the day in the final session.

India slumped to 122-7 despite Yashasvi Jaiswal’s 58 as wickets kept tumbling on what still seems like a good pitch to bat on.

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Washington Sundar, who made 48, and fellow left-hander Kuldeep Yadav resisted in a partnership of 72 off 208 balls before off-spinner Simon Harmer struck to end Sundar’s defiance.

Jansen then dismissed Kuldeep for 19 and Jasprit Bumrah for two to pack a shell-shocked India off in under three sessions.

Earlier, the left-handed Jaiswal lost overnight partner KL Rahul for 22 in the first hour of play before reaching his 13th Test half-century.

Jaiswal used the sweep to good effect and took on the bowlers, hitting seven fours and one six until his departure off Harmer.

Harmer had Sai Sudharsan caught at mid-wicket for 15, and Jansen removed Dhruv Jurel for a duck to further put India on the back foot at the first break.

The 6ft 8 in (2.03 metres) tall Jansen, who made 93 in South Africa’s imposing first-innings total, used the bouncer to snare the Indian batters with Jurel falling to the pull off a short ball.

Skipper Rishabh Pant fell caught behind for seven to Jansen soon after in the second session, and the batting fell apart like nine pins.

Aiden Markram took a stunning catch as he ran from second slip to take a one-handed diving catch to his right to dismiss Nitish Kumar Reddy off Jansen. Reddy made 10.

READ: Salman Ali Agha breaks world record, surpasses Dravid, Yousuf, Dhoni