Bumrah, Krunal lead Mumbai and Bengaluru to IPL victories
Bumrah led five-time champions Mumbai to their fifth consecutive win at the Wankhede Stadium. In the second match of the day, Pandya’s unbeaten 73 helped Bengaluru move past Gujarat Titans at the top of the standings.
Bumrah dismissed Aiden Markram to surpass Lasith Malinga’s record of 170 IPL wickets, becoming Mumbai’s all-time leading wicket-taker with 174 wickets. (Photo: Getty Images)
JASPRIT BUMRAH returned figures of 4-22 as Mumbai Indians defeated Lucknow Super Giants by 54 runs in the IPL on Sunday.
Krunal Pandya guided Royal Challengers Bengaluru to the top of the table with a six-wicket win over Delhi Capitals.
Bumrah led five-time champions Mumbai to their fifth consecutive win at the Wankhede Stadium. In the second match of the day, Pandya’s unbeaten 73 helped Bengaluru move past Gujarat Titans at the top of the standings.
Chasing 163, Bengaluru were reduced to 26-3 before Virat Kohli and Pandya added 119 runs for the fourth wicket. Tim David hit 19 not out off five balls to complete the win with nine balls to spare at Delhi’s Feroz Shah Kotla ground.
"He (Pandya) can make that impact and we were just waiting for him to come into this tournament with the bat as well," Kohli said about Pandya, who was named player of the match and also took 1-28 with his left-arm spin. "And today was his day completely and he was absolutely brilliant."
Kohli made 51 while Pandya hit five fours and four sixes in an innings that took the match away from Delhi.
It was Bengaluru’s sixth straight away win as they continue their search for a first IPL title since 2008. Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood shared five wickets to restrict Delhi to 162-8.
In the chase, Delhi captain Axar Patel opened the bowling and took two quick wickets, removing Jacob Bethell for 12 and Devdutt Padikkal for a duck. Bengaluru skipper Rajat Patidar was run out for six, but Kohli and Pandya steadied the innings with quick running and occasional boundaries.
Pandya reached his fifty off 38 balls with a four off Axar. Kohli completed his sixth half-century of the season and moved ahead of Suryakumar Yadav as the leading run-scorer with 443 runs. Kohli was eventually dismissed by Dushmantha Chameera before Pandya and David finished the match.
In the earlier match, Mumbai posted 215-7 after Ryan Rickelton scored 58 and Suryakumar Yadav made 54. Mumbai bowled out Lucknow for 161 with contributions from all bowlers, including England’s Will Jacks, who took two wickets in one over.
"I will always be a batter who bowls, my bowling is important," said Jacks, who also made 29 runs with the bat. "I have worked hard on my bowling, doesn't matter what others say. There are still improvements to be made."
It was Mumbai’s 150th IPL victory, extending their record.
Bumrah dismissed Aiden Markram to surpass Lasith Malinga’s record of 170 IPL wickets, becoming Mumbai’s all-time leading wicket-taker with 174 wickets. Bumrah recently returned from a back injury that kept him out of India’s Champions Trophy title win in Dubai last month.
Jacks got Nicholas Pooran out for 27 with his off-spin and dismissed Rishabh Pant two balls later, caught out for four attempting a reverse sweep. New Zealand’s Trent Boult dismissed Mitchell Marsh for 34 and Ayush Badoni for 35, finishing with figures of 3-20.
Despite taking 5-83 in the first innings at Headingley, Bumrah went wicketless in the second as England chased down a target of 371, with opener Ben Duckett scoring 149.
INDIA will take a last-minute call on whether to include Jasprit Bumrah in the second Test against England, starting Wednesday at Edgbaston in Birmingham, as they look to level the five-match series.
Bumrah, currently the top-ranked Test bowler, would usually be a straightforward selection after India’s five-wicket defeat in the opening Test at Headingley. However, the fast bowler is returning from a back injury and had earlier said he expected to play only three of the five Tests.
Despite taking 5-83 in the first innings at Headingley, Bumrah went wicketless in the second as England chased down a target of 371, with opener Ben Duckett scoring 149. The rest of India’s bowling attack struggled to support Bumrah during the chase.
“Bumrah is ready to play,” India assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate said on Monday. “It's how we manage these four Tests. So if we feel like there's value in playing him in this Test, we'll make that call at the very last minute.”
Kuldeep Yadav could return; batting collapses hurt India
India, who have now lost seven of their 11 Tests under head coach Gautam Gambhir, may consider changing the balance of their bowling line-up. Left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav, who did not play at Headingley, is an option. He has taken 56 wickets at an average of 22.16 in 13 Tests.
India’s defeat in the first Test came despite scoring five individual hundreds. Batting collapses of 7-41 (from 430-3) and 6-31 (from 333-4) proved costly. The team also dropped several straightforward catches. Harry Brook, who was dropped off a no-ball before scoring, went on to make 99 after further chances on 46 and 82.
Shubman Gill, leading India for the first time, scored 147 in the first innings. India were without former captains Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul, both of whom also scored centuries, were seen actively directing field placements during the match.
“At one point I felt there were too many captains,” former India spinner Murali Karthik told Cricbuzz. “I just couldn't understand that. KL Rahul was making hand movements, Rishabh Pant was also doing it... There is only one captain.”
England name unchanged team for Edgbaston Test
England, after completing the tenth-highest successful fourth-innings chase in Test history, have named an unchanged team for the second Test.
Jamie Smith, who hit the winning runs in the first Test and finished 44 not out, said during a media interaction with series sponsor Rothesay: “I think the really important thing is for the team to be quite ruthless and once you're on top, try to put them to bed.”
While England’s bowlers were ineffective with the new ball in the first innings at Headingley, they improved as the match progressed. Despite speculation, Jofra Archer was not recalled to the playing XI. He remains in the Edgbaston squad, but his Test return will wait.
Chris Woakes will lead the bowling attack on his home ground in the absence of retired pacers James Anderson and Stuart Broad. Woakes, 36, has taken 182 wickets in 58 Tests.
“I played a lot of my England games with Jimmy and Broady so it is different not having them around but also it's a great opportunity for myself,” Woakes said. “I've enjoyed that role so far and it's good to pass on some knowledge to the younger guys that haven't played as much Test cricket.”
By clicking the 'Subscribe’, you agree to receive our newsletter, marketing communications and industry
partners/sponsors sharing promotional product information via email and print communication from Garavi Gujarat
Publications Ltd and subsidiaries. You have the right to withdraw your consent at any time by clicking the
unsubscribe link in our emails. We will use your email address to personalize our communications and send you
relevant offers. Your data will be stored up to 30 days after unsubscribing.
Contact us at data@amg.biz to see how we manage and store your data.
In an industry long regarded as a boys’ club, Sharma brings a refreshingly unapologetic approach
As the world prepares for the second edition of the World Championship of Legends (WCL), one of its most exciting franchises, the Meteora England Champions, is being led by a compelling force. Mahima Sharma is not just making her mark in cricket – she is quietly redefining leadership in a male-dominated industry.
In an industry long regarded as a boys’ club, Sharma brings a refreshingly unapologetic approach. She is strategic, deeply rooted in her love for the game, and proudly feminine. “Cricket has always felt like home to me,” she says. “I come from a culture where cricket is an emotion, and stepping into this role carries a great deal of responsibility. Growing up, I saw very few women leaders in cricket. To now find myself in this position 15 years later feels like coming full circle.”
As co-owner and the driving force behind the Meteora England Champions, Sharma is part of a small group of women leading professional cricket teams. For her, this is not about tokenism, it’s about legacy. “I do not want to be the exception,” she says. “I want to be part of a movement where women leading in sport is normalised. As more women step into leadership, we must not only create space but also change the environment so others can thrive.”
The journey has not been without its obstacles. Sharma recalls the doubt she encountered in the early days. “You walk into certain rooms and feel it – the unspoken question of how a twenty-something woman is in charge,” she says. But instead of backing away, she leaned in. “I chose not to internalise that doubt. I focused on proving myself through action.”
Each branding move, player decision, and strategic step has helped reshape perceptions. “We are not here to just participate. We are here to lead – with vision, knowledge and authenticity.”
Sharma’s leadership story is closely tied to her family. She co-owns the team with her father, a self-made entrepreneur who built the wider Meteora Group. Their dynamic is one of mutual respect. “We do not always agree – and that is our strength. We challenge each other, and that leads to better decisions.”
This blend of tradition and innovation shapes how she runs the team. From revamping fan experiences to reviving iconic rivalries, Sharma brings together nostalgia and bold new energy. “We are embracing history while writing new chapters,” she says. “Through storytelling, digital content and match-day experiences, we are bringing legends back into the spotlight in meaningful ways.”
Those legends include the likes of Eoin Morgan and Alastair Cook – cricketing greats now representing Meteora. “It has honestly been a dream,” Sharma says. “These players are not just icons – they are grounded, inspirational, and passionate about the future of the game.”
The team is also shaped by dynamic women behind the scenes. One key figure is Bhakti Bansal, the team’s creative strategist. “Her leadership has helped shape how the Meteora brand speaks and connects,” Sharma says. “It is not about having women in leadership for the sake of it – it is about having the right leadership.”
Empowerment runs through Sharma’s journey. She is not content with simply climbing the ladder – she wants to rebuild it. “As more women take on leadership roles, we carry the responsibility not just to make space, but to transform the environment so others can thrive.”
As WCL enters its second season, Sharma is scaling upwclegends.uk
For Sharma, inclusivity and creativity are core values. “It starts internally. Our team is deliberately diverse – not just in terms of gender or ethnicity, but in background and thinking styles.” This inclusivity informs every decision, from interns to executive planning. “Everyone has a seat at the table.”
As WCL enters its second season, Sharma is scaling up. “The challenge is in the scale and speed – logistics, player schedules, fan engagement, sponsorships. But the challenges are real, and so is our drive.”
Asked what message she would give young women pursuing careers in sport or business, Sharma is clear. “You do not have to choose between being passionate and being powerful. You do not need all the answers on day one – but you do need to believe you belong.”
Her approach is grounded in authenticity. “Resilience and self-awareness are everything. You must know who you are and hold your ground, even when you do not see yourself reflected in the room.”
She adds, “You can be assertive without being abrasive, strategic without being cold, and emotional without being weak.”
Despite the pace and pressure of running a franchise, Sharma’s love for cricket keeps her grounded and ambitious. “It is still my greatest passion,” she says. But she is open to other opportunities if they align with her values.
At the heart of her leadership is a principle passed down from her father: “Build long-term relationships based on trust.” It is a value she holds close as she navigates partnerships, negotiations and team dynamics.
When she needs inspiration, she turns to her support system. “My family, my friends, my dog Lexi – and the fans. Just being in a packed stadium, hearing the cheers, wearing your team’s jersey – that feeling is unmatched.”
Sharma closes with a simple yet powerful philosophy: “We walk into the room each day with a game plan, positive energy, and a clear vision.”
As the second season of WCL approaches, it is clear that Mahima Sharma is building more than a cricket team – she is building a legacy. One that says, without apology: the future of sport belongs to everyone. And yes, that includes the women who dare to lead.
The World championship of legends cricket 2025 takes place from July 18 – August 2. wclegends.uk
Keep ReadingShow less
Mahmood, a pace bowling allrounder, played 143 one-day internationals and 21 Tests for Pakistan. (Photo: Getty Images)
PAKISTAN on Monday appointed former all-rounder Azhar Mahmood as the interim head coach of the men’s Test team. He is the fourth person to hold the position in the past 18 months.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) said the 50-year-old will remain in the role until January.
Mahmood, a pace bowling allrounder, played 143 one-day internationals and 21 Tests for Pakistan. He has been serving as assistant coach since last year.
“The PCB announces Mahmood as the acting red-ball head coach of the Pakistan men’s team,” said a PCB press release.
Mahmood replaces Aaqib Javed, who was interim head coach for the Test series in South Africa in December-January and the home series against the West Indies.
Javed stepped down after Pakistan lost all four Tests and finished ninth and last in the third cycle of the World Test Championship.
Before Javed, former Australia fast bowler Jason Gillespie had taken over but quit six months into his stint in December 2024 following differences with the PCB.
Prior to Gillespie, former Pakistan all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez was the team director and had overseen a 3-0 Test defeat in Australia.
Monday’s appointment is part of a series of changes by the PCB aimed at improving the national team’s performance following a difficult two years.
Last month, New Zealand’s Mike Hesson was named white-ball head coach for two years.
Pakistan will host South Africa in October in their first series of the new World Test Championship cycle. They will then play Sri Lanka at home in December-January.
Keep ReadingShow less
Indian cricket head coach Gautam Gambhir. (Photo by PUNIT PARANJPE/AFP via Getty Images)
GAUTAM GAMBHIR is under growing pressure ahead of the second Test against England after India's loss at Headingley made it seven defeats in 11 red-ball matches since he became coach last year.
The 43-year-old former opening batsman is facing flak from some quarters for his selections, man management and how he carries himself in press conferences.
India are ushering in a new era following the retirements of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, with Gambhir widely reported to have played a part in the exit of at least one of the two veteran stars.
Led by new captain Shubman Gill, the visitors were beaten by five wickets in the opening Test of the five-match England series, adding to a growing sense of alarm.
The second Test at Edgbaston starts on Wednesday (2) and patience is wearing thin back home.
"Gautam Gambhir is under significant pressure. The situation is becoming increasingly tense," former India batsman Aakash Chopra said on his YouTube channel.
"He has managed two wins against Bangladesh and one against Australia, but we've lost three matches to New Zealand, three to Australia and now one to England.
"He has been losing and losing."
Gambhir, who as a player had a key role in India's ODI World Cup triumph in 2011, succeeded Rahul Dravid in July last year.
Dravid signed off a largely successful three-year tenure by winning the T20 World Cup.
Gambhir was chosen as his successor almost exactly a year ago but he and his side suffered a significant bloody nose when they went down 3-0 to New Zealand.
It was India's first Test series defeat at home in 12 years.
Along with chief selector Ajit Agarkar, Gambhir was criticised for leaving middle-order batsman Sarfaraz Khan out of the squad for England.
Karun Nair was picked ahead of Sarfaraz, who had scores of 68 not out and 56 against a visiting England last year, and made 150 versus New Zealand in Bengaluru.
Gambhir's detractors say he is hot-headed and accuse him of acting too much on instinct.
Speaking ahead of the series, Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Dinesh Karthik said that "tactically, Gauti (Gambhir) is a very good coach.
"Man management is the area that I am sure he would be looking at," he told Sky Sports' cricket podcast.
"But one thing about him is that he is looking out for his players, which is massive.
"What I feel at times is that the way he is aggressive as a captain, you can't be as a coach."
Critics don't like Gambhir's press conferences. Following the defeat at Headingley, Gambhir looked ruffled and snapped in reply to a question about Rishabh Pant's centuries in each innings.
The visiting batsmen scored five centuries in the match but still lost.
Former batsman Sanjay Manjrekar has said that Gambhir should be kept away from the media, after the coach bit back at Ricky Ponting ahead of the tour to Australia last year.
India went on to lose the series 3-1.
On the last day of the first England Test, when the hosts chased down 371, senior batsman KL Rahul and Gill's deputy Pant were seen making the fielding changes, rather than the skipper.
In the final overs it appeared pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah rejected Gill's idea of bringing him back into the attack.
Bumrah, who will only play two more Tests in the series to manage his workload, returned figures of 5-83 in England's first innings of 465 but went wicketless second time around.
A fit, firing and content Bumrah is key to India's chances.
South African great AB de Villiers questioned whether it was "mismanagement" or injury that was the cause of Bumrah being rested at a crucial point of the match.
Lack of bowling support for Bumrah and India's lower-order collapses -- from 430-3 to 471 all out in the first innings and 333-4 to 364 in the second -- also hurt the team in Leeds.
(AFP)
Keep ReadingShow less
The 30-year-old fast bowler has struggled with injuries throughout his career and has played just 13 Tests, the last of which was in February 2021.
JOFRA ARCHER has been named in England's squad for the second Test against India, marking his return to the Test side after more than four years.
The 30-year-old fast bowler has struggled with injuries throughout his career and has played just 13 Tests, the last of which was in February 2021.
Archer last appeared for England in March during a one-day international against South Africa at the ICC Champions Trophy in Pakistan.
He returned to first-class cricket on Sunday, playing for Sussex for the first time in four years. He took one wicket in a drawn match against Durham.
Speaking to the BBC, Archer said it had been a mental challenge to return to red-ball cricket but confirmed he was ready for Test matches.
"Yeah. I guess so," he said. "I just want to get through the game. I'm glad I've finished a day of four-day cricket."
England won the first Test at Headingley on Tuesday with a five-wicket victory over India. Archer was added to the squad on Thursday as the only change ahead of the second Test in Birmingham.
Archer, who was born in Barbados, made an immediate impact after his debut in 2019, providing England with pace and accuracy. He bowled the decisive super over in the World Cup final against New Zealand that year and later took 22 wickets in four Tests during the Ashes series against Australia, which ended in a draw.
Since then, he has dealt with recurring injuries. An elbow injury first suffered in 2020 required multiple surgeries. He also had to recover from a stress fracture in his back in 2022.
He was recently ruled out of England's ODI series against the West Indies due to a thumb injury sustained while playing for Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League.
Archer has taken 42 wickets in 13 Tests at an average of 31.
Jacob Bethell, Sam Cook and Jamie Overton, who were part of the squad for the first Test but did not play, have retained their places for the second Test at Edgbaston, which begins on July 2.
England squad: Ben Stokes (capt), Jofra Archer, Shoaib Bashir, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Sam Cook, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Jamie Overton, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Jamie Smith (wkt), Josh Tongue, Chris Woakes.