India Makes History With Double Gold Sweep At Commonwealth Kabaddi Championship

WATCH: Finn Allen Takes Stunning Boundary Catch, But Third Umpire Gives Ishan Kishan A Lifeline

Suyash Sahay — Sun, 1 Nov 2026 14:14:41 +0530

Finn Allen Catch: A moment of brilliance from Finn Allen nearly gave New Zealand a spectacular breakthrough against India, but a tiny detail in the execution changed everything. The Black Caps fielder thought he had pulled off a remarkable catch to send Ishan Kishan back to the pavilion during the fifth T20I at Seddon Park. However, a lengthy review by the third umpire ensured the Indian batsman stayed at the crease. The incident unfolded in the seventh over, with Mitchell Santner operating.

Finn Allen's Acrobatic Effort Goes To The Third Umpire

A spectacular effort, but Ishan Kishan survives by the skin of his teeth! 😬

Watch the HERO VIDA India Tour of New Zealand 5th T20I, LIVE NOW on Sony Sports Network TV channels & Sony LIV. #SonySportsNetwork #SonyLIV #SonyVizha #NZvIND pic.twitter.com/Wul1oS9BJe
— Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) November 1, 2026

Ishan Kishan attempted to clear the boundary straight down the ground but did not make clean contact.

Moving quickly towards his right, Allen got underneath the ball and appeared to complete an outstanding catch close to the boundary.

However, with his momentum threatening to carry him beyond the ropes, the fielder tried to flick the ball back into the playing area before stepping outside.

Also Check || ‘Un-Australian, Utterly Disgraceful’: David Warner Blasts Australia After South Africa Humiliation

It was a desperate piece of athleticism, and for a moment, it looked as though New Zealand had secured a major wicket.

The decision, however, was far from straightforward, prompting the on-field officials to refer the matter upstairs.

Third Umpire Finds Crucial Flaw

The television umpire went through several replays, examining the sequence from different angles.

A split-screen view was also requested to establish exactly when Allen released the ball in relation to his contact with the ground.

The review revealed the decisive detail: Allen's right toe had touched the ground before the ball left his hand.

That meant the fielder had made contact with the ground beyond the boundary while still holding the ball, making the effort illegal.

Kishan was therefore given a lifeline after what initially appeared to be a stunning dismissal.

The reprieve did not last until the end of his innings. Kishan eventually departed for a brisk 61 off 32 deliveries in the 11th over, with Blair Tickner claiming the wicket and Nathan Smith completing the catch.

Watch: Hardik Pandya Beats World's Biggest YouTuber, Wins Massive Prize Money

Shivam Sharma — Sun, 1 Nov 2026 14:12:26 +0530

MrBeast recently travelled to India, where he teamed up with Indian cricket star Hardik Pandya for an entertaining baseball challenge. The competition had a massive reward of $100,000 for the winner. The world's most-followed YouTuber was visibly impressed by Hardik's performance, particularly because the Indian all-rounder had never played baseball before.

During his India visit, MrBeast also met Bollywood actor Ranbir Kapoor and explored the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra. However, his baseball showdown with Hardik became one of the major highlights of the trip. The challenge required both participants to hit the ball out of the stadium three times, with the first to achieve the target claiming the prize money.

MrBeast Amazed By Hardik Pandya's Baseball Skills

Before the contest began, MrBeast revealed that he had some experience playing baseball during his childhood. Hardik, on the other hand, admitted that he was completely new to the sport and had never tried it previously.

Despite having no prior experience, the Indian cricketer impressed the YouTuber with his powerful shots. Although Hardik's opening attempt narrowly missed clearing the stadium, the ball travelled extremely close to the boundary. His effort left MrBeast surprised, prompting him to wonder how anyone could believe it was Hardik's first attempt at playing baseball.

WATCH VIDEO

🔴 HARDIK PANDYA ENDS CRICKET VS BASEBALL DEBATE 🤣 - Even MrBeast was shocked to see how easily Hardik smashed every ball while playing baseball! 😭🔥 https://t.co/FTJ3IHCKN8
— Sam (@cricsam02) November 1, 2026

Hardik Pandya Donates Entire Prize Money

Hardik eventually completed the challenge by sending the ball out of the stadium three times, securing victory and the $100,000 reward. The prize amount is approximately ₹95 lakh in Indian currency.

However, the cricketer's decision after winning attracted even more attention. MrBeast revealed that Hardik had chosen to donate the entire prize money rather than keep it for himself.

Hardik Pandya's IPL Future In Focus

Hardik has also been in the news because of his absence from cricket following an injury. His recovery and availability remain important talking points ahead of the next IPL season.

There has also been speculation surrounding his future with Mumbai Indians. While reports have linked him with a possible move to another franchise through a trade, recent developments suggest that he could continue leading the five-time IPL champions. His future with the franchise is expected to remain a major talking point ahead of the upcoming season.

IND vs NZ: Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli To Return In 3 Days; Check Dates

Shivam Sharma — Sun, 1 Nov 2026 13:32:44 +0530

Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli remain two of the biggest attractions in Indian cricket. Their presence on the field always generates enormous excitement among supporters. With the India-New Zealand T20I series nearing its conclusion, attention is now shifting towards the upcoming ODI contest, which begins in just three days.

Following India's ODI assignment against West Indies, the two senior batters are ready to return to action against the Black Caps.

Here's a look at when fans can expect to see Rohit and Kohli in action, along with the complete schedule of the five-match series.

Rohit And Virat Begin Preparations

Both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have arrived in New Zealand ahead of the ODI series and have already started training in Auckland. Pictures and videos from their practice sessions have surfaced, showing the experienced duo putting in considerable effort ahead of the opening encounter.

When Will Rohit And Virat Play Their First ODI?

Cricket fans will get to watch Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli back in action on November 4, 2026. India will begin the five-match ODI series against New Zealand at Eden Park in Auckland.

The series will be completed over an 11-day period, with the final match scheduled for November 15. Both Rohit and Virat are available for the entire ODI assignment. Several players involved in the first three matches are expected to turn their attention towards the upcoming Test series, but the two senior batters will remain part of the ODI setup for the final two games as well, having retired from Test cricket.

India vs New Zealand ODI Series: Full Schedule

- 1st ODI: November 4, 2026 – Eden Park, Auckland
- 2nd ODI: November 7, 2026 – Sky Stadium, Wellington
- 3rd ODI: November 10, 2026 – Seddon Park, Hamilton
- 4th ODI: November 13, 2026 – Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui
- 5th ODI: November 15, 2026 – Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui

Test Series To Follow ODIs

The fifth and final ODI will take place on November 15, while the two-match Test series is scheduled to begin just four days later, on November 19. India will look to carry its momentum from the T20I leg into the 50-over format before taking on New Zealand in the longer format.

‘Un-Australian, Utterly Disgraceful’: David Warner Blasts Australia After South Africa Humiliation

Suyash Sahay — Sun, 1 Nov 2026 13:18:48 +0530

Australia's collapse in the decisive Test against South Africa has triggered a furious reaction from former opener David Warner, who did not hold back while assessing the team's performance. Despite carrying a 100-run advantage from the first innings, Pat Cummins' side suffered a crushing defeat, surrendering both the game and the three-match Test series. Chasing 288 for victory, Australia produced a batting display that left little room for resistance.

The visitors were dismissed for just 111, handing South Africa a comprehensive win and prompting Warner to launch a scathing attack on the team's approach.

David Warner Questions Australia's Fighting Spirit

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Speaking on Fox Cricket after the match, the former Australia batsman questioned the fighting spirit of the current side and delivered a particularly harsh verdict on the batters.

"It's terrible, it's un-Australian. There is no fight whatsoever. It's disgraceful."

Also Check || WATCH: Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma Burst Into Laughter During Training In Viral Video

He was equally critical of the manner in which Australia approached the 288-run chase, pointing out the importance of the opportunity that had slipped away.

"288, you're winning a Test match, you could win the series, it's on the line, and this is the way that they're playing. I think it's deplorable."

Batting Unit Comes Under Heavy Fire

Warner reserved some of his strongest criticism for Australia's batting department, arguing that the bowlers had not received enough support throughout the series.

"The batters have let the bowlers down the whole series. Yes, Matt Renshaw showed fight in that first Test, but I think the batters have been disgraceful, utterly disgraceful."

Renshaw had made 74 in the first innings of the match but could not repeat that effort in the second, falling for a golden duck.

South Africa's bowling attack ensured Australia never recovered.

Kagiso Rabada claimed three wickets, while off-spinner Simon Harmer dismantled the batting order with figures of 16/6 from 21.1 overs.

Australia Slips In World Test Championship Standings

The defeat also came at a significant cost in the World Test Championship race.

Australia have dropped from first to third in the current standings, moving behind South Africa, while New Zealand have taken the top position.

WATCH: Man On Scooter Interrupts India A vs New Zealand A Test In Hilarious Moment

Suyash Sahay — Sun, 1 Nov 2026 12:51:39 +0530

Man On Scooter Interrupts Test Match: Cricket matches have witnessed all kinds of unexpected interruptions, but an incident in Christchurch provided a very unusual twist during the second unofficial Test between India A and New Zealand A. Play was momentarily held up when an elderly man riding a mobility scooter made his way across the sight screen, catching the players completely off guard. Just as the bowler was about to complete his approach, the spectator appeared in the batsman's background, crossing the area on his scooter.

Akash Deep Stops Play As Scooter Crosses

This is one of the most hilarious moment in cricket 😂 https://t.co/5U3hvvuzYv
— Cricketopia (@CricketopiaCom) November 1, 2026

The bowler had to abandon his attempt as the man continued moving across the sight screen. With the elderly man passing through the batsman, Akash Deep's line of sight, continuing with the delivery was not possible.

The players were left waiting for the obstruction to clear, while the spectator appeared to carry on with his journey across the ground.

Also Check || WATCH: Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma Burst Into Laughter During Training In Viral Video

There was no indication that he realised his route had interrupted an ongoing cricket match.

What would ordinarily have been a routine passage of play turned into an amusing interruption, with the mobility scooter making an unexpected appearance in the middle of the action.

India A And New Zealand A In Four-Day Contest

This match in Christchurch is part of the unofficial Test series between the development sides of the two countries.

Such fixtures offer emerging players an opportunity to gain experience in longer-format cricket and push their claims for higher honours.

The senior teams are also scheduled to meet in a two-match Test series, although there is a five-match ODI contest between India and New Zealand before the red-ball battle gets underway.

For now, it was this unexpected visitor rather than a delivery or a batting highlight that provided one of the most memorable moments from the India A-New Zealand A encounter.

WATCH: Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma Burst Into Laughter During Training In Viral Video

Suyash Sahay — Sun, 1 Nov 2026 12:37:18 +0530

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma were seen enjoying each other's company and that, understandably, has caught the attention of cricket fans. A new training-ground video shows the two India stalwarts sharing a light-hearted exchange. The clip, which has surfaced on social media, captures the pair chatting and bursting into laughter during a practice session ahead of the upcoming ODI assignment against New Zealand. The conversation itself remains a mystery though, as music added to the video makes it impossible to hear what the former India captains are discussing.

However, their cheerful interaction has given supporters another glimpse of the bond between two of the most influential figures in Indian cricket.

Kohli-Rohit Get Talking In Training

The beautiful bond between RoKo.🫂🤗 https://t.co/O5w7gpLkv1
— 𝐑𝐮𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐢𝐢⁴⁵ (@rushiii_12) November 1, 2026

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma remain central figures in India's ODI plans despite moving away from two other formats.

Both have retired from Test and T20I cricket, with the 50-over game now their focus at the international level.

Also Check || WATCH: Abhishek Sharma Turns Cameraman As Axar Patel Pins Blame For Loud Music On Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

The experienced duo will be expected to play important roles as India build towards next year's ODI World Cup.

Their ambition will be to help the team go one step further after the heartbreak of the 2023 edition, when India reached the final on home soil but lost to Australia, led by Pat Cummins.

New-Look India Looks To Build Towards ODI World Cup

India's preparations for the next global tournament are taking shape under a new leadership structure.

Shubman Gill is now at the helm, with Gautam Gambhir serving as head coach.

In this setup, Kohli and Rohit bring a wealth of experience to the batting unit and can help guide a younger group through the challenges ahead.

The five-match ODI series against New Zealand is the next assignment, with the opening match scheduled for Wednesday, November 4, and the final game set for November 15.

Test Challenge To Follow ODI Assignment

Once the limited-overs contest concludes, India will switch formats for a two-match Test series against the Black Caps.

That will bring the lengthy tour to a close.

The team has already made a positive start, having secured the T20I series.

Attention now turns to the ODIs, where the familiar presence of Kohli and Rohit will be among the biggest talking points.

WATCH: Abhishek Sharma Turns Cameraman As Axar Patel Pins Blame For Loud Music On Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Suyash Sahay — Sun, 1 Nov 2026 12:16:48 +0530

Abhishek Sharma Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Viral Video: Background noise turned into an entertaining moment for India's cricketers, with Abhishek Sharma, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Axar Patel sharing a light-hearted exchange that has since made its way onto social media. A video doing the rounds online shows the players inside a room when a burst of music and commotion from outside interrupts them. What begins as Abhishek's playful complaint soon takes a funny turn, thanks to Axar's unexpected explanation.

Axar Patel's One-Liner Steals The Show

🚨 Abhishek Sharma, Axar Patel & Vaibhav Suryavanshi turn into curious tourists in Auckland 😂

The trio spotted a huge celebration festival happening outside their hotel but had no idea what was going on 😭😂 So they showed the scenes to fans and asked: “Can anyone tell us which… pic.twitter.com/wpcmMFRZjZ
— HIMANI 🐥 (@himanii_68) October 31, 2026

In the video, Abhishek Sharma appears distracted by the loud music and asks Axar to get it switched off.

Axar responds by stating that its not him playing music before making a cheeky remark about the teenage batter.

"Ye Vaibhav protest kar raha hai (Vaibhav is protesting)"

Also Check || WATCH: Josh Hazlewood Flips Middle Finger At Fans Amid Tense SA vs AUS Test

The comment prompts Abhishek to turn the camera towards Sooryavanshi, putting the youngster on the spot.

He asks the teenager whether he is responsible for the music, continuing the playful exchange between the teammates.

Sooryavanshi, however, makes it clear that the noise has nothing to do with him. He points out that the music is coming from somewhere outside, leaving Abhishek to investigate the source.

Abhishek Sharma Reveals What's Happening Outside

The left-handed opener then moves the camera towards the window to show what is unfolding beyond their room.

The footage reveals a procession of vehicles moving through the neighbourhood, with people accompanying them and music playing loudly.

The sight explains the commotion that had caught the players' attention in the first place.

It also gives context to Abhishek's initial reaction, as the noise appears to be coming from the passing group rather than from within the team's surroundings.

IND vs NZ 5th T20I: New Zealand To Bowl First; Bhuvi Back In India XI

Shivam Sharma — Sun, 1 Nov 2026 12:04:05 +0530

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi was left out of India's playing XI yet again as New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner won the toss and elected to bowl in the fifth T20I at Seddon Park, Hamilton. India made two changes to their line-up, bringing in Varun Chakravarthy and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, while retaining the same batting combination that featured in the previous match.

India's bid to seal a clean sweep had already suffered a setback after New Zealand registered a convincing 87-run win in the fourth T20I on Friday. Ishan Kishan's return to the side had resulted in Sooryavanshi being dropped for that game, and the young opener was once again unable to find a place in the XI for the series finale.

India also had several other options on the bench, including Kuldeep Yadav and Shivam Dube, who could have been considered for the final match. However, the team management opted for only two changes.

Playing XIs

India (Playing XI): Sanju Samson, Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan(w), Shreyas Iyer(c), Tilak Varma, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Naman Dhir, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh, Prince Yadav, Varun Chakaravarthy.

New Zealand (Playing XI): Tim Seifert(w), Finn Allen, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Bevon Jacobs, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner(c), Nathan Smith, Adam Milne, Jacob Duffy, Blair Tickner

What Captains Said...

Shreyas Iyer: Great occasion to come here on this historical ground. We were looking to bat, wanted to test ourselves batting first. Auckland, the dimensions were different. But credit where it's due, Phillips played an incredible knock. Two changes, Varun comes in and Bhuvi comes in. He's been waiting for his opportunity and even in the huddle he gave a beautiful speech today.

Mitchell Santner: I just assumed I'd lose the toss. We'll have a bowl. Obviously a new pitch. Might be a little bit of dew later. Have to adapt quickly to the dimensions. If there's bit of bounce like Eden Park, will be nice. Obviously with the bat we've been good this whole series. Was obviously a bit more in the wicket the other night which was nice for the seamers. One change. Tickner is back.

IND vs NZ: Virat Kohli Eyes Historic Record, Could Surpass Sachin And Sourav

Shivam Sharma — Sun, 1 Nov 2026 10:41:16 +0530

The fifth and final T20I between India and New Zealand will take place in Hamilton on Sunday, November 1. Once the T20I series concludes, the two teams will shift their attention to a five-match ODI contest, beginning on November 4.

Virat Kohli will be one of the biggest attractions of the upcoming series, with the experienced batter having an opportunity to achieve another remarkable milestone. He could move past legendary Indian cricketers Sachin Tendulkar and Sourav Ganguly in the list of players with the most sixes in ODI cricket.

Virat Kohli Eyes Sachin Tendulkar's Record

Since making his ODI debut in 2008, Kohli has established himself as one of the greatest batters in the format. He has accumulated 15,109 runs in 317 matches and 305 innings at an impressive average of 58.78. His tally includes 55 centuries and 79 half-centuries, while he has also smashed 181 sixes.

Kohli is currently behind Sachin Tendulkar and Sourav Ganguly in the list of Indian batters with the most ODI sixes. Tendulkar finished his international career with 195 maximums in the format, while Ganguly struck 190.

If Kohli manages to hit 15 sixes during the upcoming five-match series against New Zealand, he will go past both former Indian captains and reach 196 ODI sixes.

Players With Most Sixes In ODI Cricket

Rohit Sharma (India): 291 matches, 381 sixes

Shahid Afridi (Pakistan): 398 matches, 351 sixes

Chris Gayle (West Indies): 301 matches, 331 sixes

Sanath Jayasuriya (Sri Lanka): 445 matches, 270 sixes

MS Dhoni (India): 350 matches, 229 sixes

Eoin Morgan (England): 248 matches, 220 sixes

AB de Villiers (South Africa): 228 matches, 204 sixes

Brendon McCullum (New Zealand): 260 matches, 200 sixes

Sachin Tendulkar (India): 463 matches, 195 sixes

Jos Buttler (England): 204 matches, 193 sixes

Sourav Ganguly (India): 311 matches, 190 sixes

Martin Guptill (New Zealand): 198 matches, 187 sixes

Virat Kohli (India): 317 matches, 181 sixes

Virat's Impressive ODI Record Against New Zealand

Kohli has consistently delivered strong performances against New Zealand in the 50-over format. The 37-year-old has featured in 36 ODIs against the Black Caps, scoring 1,897 runs at an average of 58.

His record against the New Zealand side includes seven centuries and 10 half-centuries. With the upcoming series offering five more opportunities, fans will be eager to see whether Kohli can add to his impressive numbers and move closer to another major milestone.

The five-match ODI series will begin in Auckland on November 4. The remaining fixtures will be played across Wellington, Hamilton and Mount Maunganui.

India Makes History With Double Gold Sweep At Commonwealth Kabaddi Championship

Shivam Sharma — Sun, 1 Nov 2026 10:29:41 +0530

India enjoyed a memorable outing at the inaugural Commonwealth Kabaddi Championship, sweeping both the men's and women's gold medals. The Indian men's team defeated Sri Lanka 54-20 in the final, while the women's side registered a convincing 35-15 victory over Uganda to claim the top prize. With both teams emerging as champions in the competition's first edition, India created a special moment in kabaddi history.

Men's Team Delivers Dominant Performance

Under the leadership of Surjeet Singh, the Indian men's team dominated the final against Sri Lanka right from the opening minutes. India established a commanding 15-2 advantage in the first half and continued to widen the gap, building a 20-point lead within the opening 20 minutes.

Sri Lanka struggled to cope with India's aggressive raiding and organised defensive setup. The Indian side maintained its unbeaten record throughout the championship, finishing the tournament without facing a serious challenge.

Aditya Shinde led India's scoring chart with 10 points, including six touch points. Bharat Hooda and Pankaj Mohite also played important roles, contributing eight and six points respectively. In defence, Yogesh Dahiya stood out with five tackle points.

Following their emphatic victory, the Indian players celebrated their title triumph with a lap of honour while carrying the national flag.

Indian Women's Team Also Clinches Gold

The Indian women's team produced an equally impressive performance in its final against Uganda. Dominating the contest from the beginning, India secured a comfortable 35-15 win to finish on top of the podium.

Sakshi was the standout performer, collecting nine points from 10 attempts. Anu Sen added six raid points, while Nidhi Sharma contributed with crucial bonus points to keep Uganda under pressure.

India's overall performance was backed by 20 raid points and 10 tackle points, reflecting its superiority in both departments.

Silver And Bronze Medal Winners

India topped the podium in both categories, while the other medals were shared among competing nations.

In the men's competition, Sri Lanka finished with the silver medal, while Kenya and Bangladesh claimed bronze.

In the women's category, Uganda secured silver after losing to India in the final. Kenya and Sri Lanka finished with bronze medals.