ArdorComm Media Group

Contact Us
Monday, February 16, 2026 4:36 AM
logo
Menu
logo

Cricket

BCCI still not a national sports federation, Mandaviya tells Lok Sabha

Leave a Comment / / Media Entertainment & Art Community

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is not recognised as a National Sports Federation (NSF), Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya informed the Lok Sabha on Monday, reaffirming a long-standing position that is likely to change after the National Sports Governance Act is fully implemented next year. Responding to a question from Trinamool Congress MP Mala Roy, who sought clarity on whether the government plans to step in to oversee major sports bodies such as the BCCI and the financially strained All India Football Federation (AIFF), Mandaviya said NSFs are autonomous, voluntary organisations expected to adhere to sound governance practices. He clarified that the BCCI has so far remained outside the NSF framework because it does not depend on government funding. However, once the new law comes into force, the BCCI will be required to register as an NSF, as cricket has been included in the Olympics and is scheduled to feature in the 2028 Los Angeles Games in the T20 format. Passed in August, the National Sports Governance Act provides for the creation of a National Sports Board (NSB), which will introduce stricter accountability norms. Under the new system, all NSFs must secure NSB recognition to be eligible for central government funding. Addressing concerns related to transparency, Mandaviya noted that the government has eased provisions related to the Right to Information (RTI) Act. Only sports bodies that receive government grants or assistance will fall under the RTI framework, offering relief to the BCCI, which has consistently opposed RTI coverage. The minister also told the House that NSFs receiving annual grants exceeding ₹1 crore are subject to audits by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India. Source: PTI

BCCI still not a national sports federation, Mandaviya tells Lok Sabha Read More »

IPL 2025 Points Table: LSG Leapfrogs MI After 12-Run Victory

Leave a Comment / / Media Entertainment & Art Community

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) secured their second win of the IPL 2025 season with a hard-fought 12-run victory over Mumbai Indians (MI) at the Ekana Cricket Stadium on Friday. The win propelled LSG to sixth place in the points table, while MI slipped to seventh after suffering their third defeat in four matches. With this result, six teams are now tied at four points, with Punjab Kings leading the standings due to their superior net run rate (NRR) of +1.485. LSG’s NRR improved to +0.048, while MI’s dropped slightly to +0.108. Batting first, LSG put up a strong total of 203/8, thanks to explosive half-centuries from Mitchell Marsh (60 off 31) and Aiden Markram (53 off 38). MI skipper Hardik Pandya delivered an outstanding bowling performance, claiming 5/36—his first-ever five-wicket haul in T20 cricket—but LSG managed to surpass the 200-run mark. In response, MI could only muster 191/5 despite a valiant 67 off 43 balls from Suryakumar Yadav. However, he found little support from the other end as LSG’s bowling unit shared the wickets, with Shardul Thakur, Avesh Khan, Digvesh Rathi, and Akash Deep picking up one each. MI also missed the presence of Rohit Sharma, who was sidelined due to a knee injury sustained in practice. Updated IPL 2025 Points Table: Punjab Kings – 4 points (+1.485 NRR) Delhi Capitals – 4 points (+1.320 NRR) RCB – 4 points (+1.149 NRR) Gujarat Titans – 4 points (+0.807 NRR) Kolkata Knight Riders – 4 points (+0.070 NRR) Lucknow Super Giants – 4 points (+0.048 NRR) Mumbai Indians – 2 points (+0.108 NRR) Chennai Super Kings – 2 points (-0.771 NRR) Rajasthan Royals – 2 points (-1.112 NRR) Sunrisers Hyderabad – 2 points (-1.612 NRR) With the tournament heating up, every win and net run rate shift could prove crucial in the race for the playoffs.

IPL 2025 Points Table: LSG Leapfrogs MI After 12-Run Victory Read More »

International Cricket Returns to Kashmir, Boosting Joy and Local Economy

Leave a Comment / / Media Entertainment & Art Community
ArdorComm news

After a 40-year hiatus, international cricket made a historic return to Kashmir, filling the region with excitement and hope for the future. The recently concluded Legends League Cricket (LLC) T20 tournament in Srinagar’s Bakshi Stadium brought joy to cricket fans and stimulated the local economy, reigniting interest in international sporting events in the Valley. A New Experience for Kashmiris For Mohammad Basit, 25, returning home past midnight after watching a live match in Srinagar was a surreal experience. In a region where nightlife is rare due to years of conflict, the late-night atmosphere during the LLC matches provided an exhilarating shift for Kashmir’s youth, many of whom were born after the 1990s. “The announcement of the Legends League Cricket event in September thrilled me to the core,” Basit said. The LLC, a T20 cricket league featuring former international players, marked the revival of major cricket events in the Valley. Seven matches of the league’s third edition were played at the recently revamped Bakshi Stadium, which drew in thousands of fans from across the region. The final match between Southern Super Stars and Konark Suryas Odisha on Wednesday evening was a thrilling spectacle, with the stadium packed with over 27,000 enthusiastic spectators. A Thrilling Finale and Hope for IPL The Southern Super Stars triumphed in a dramatic Super Over, lifting the trophy in front of cheering fans. Mohammad Shahid, one of the attendees, expressed his excitement: “It was the first time I saw my favourite cricketers like Yusuf Pathan and Martin Guptill live in action.” Fans carried placards reading “IPL: Kashmir is ready” and “Kashmir wants King Kohli,” expressing hopes that the Indian Premier League (IPL) would soon come to the Valley. The current reception to the LLC was in stark contrast to the two ODI matches held in Kashmir in the 1980s, where tensions marred the atmosphere. Today, the Valley is eager to host more international events, reflecting a positive shift in public sentiment. “There has been a significant change now. The people want international events to be organised here,” said Mohammad Rafi, a local resident. Economic Boost from Sporting Events Beyond the joy for cricket fans, the LLC event provided a much-needed boost to local businesses. Hotels, restaurants, and transport services saw increased activity as spectators traveled to Srinagar from various parts of the country. Sheikh Ashiq, a prominent businessman and former president of the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industries (KCCI), said, “These events have a positive impact on business. We are looking forward to hosting more such events.” Source: hindubusinessline

International Cricket Returns to Kashmir, Boosting Joy and Local Economy Read More »

India vs. Pakistan T20 World Cup Match at Nassau County International Cricket Stadium

Leave a Comment / / Media Entertainment & Art Community

India faces Pakistan in a highly anticipated T20 World Cup match at Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, Eisenhower Park, New York. The pitch conditions and security measures are crucial for the event. When the old rivals square off on Sunday, a confident and well-adjusted India will attempt to exploit Pakistan’s unpredictability and lack of familiarity with the challenging conditions in New York. The flagship match is expected to draw the tournament’s largest crowd at the recently constructed 34,000-seat stadium. The stadium’s 22-yard pitch has been a hot topic due to its unpredictability, which the ICC has acknowledged. In the three games played so far, teams have struggled to score more than 100 runs in six innings. Concerns have been raised about whether the low-scoring format can help promote cricket in the United States. Damian Hough, the Adelaide Oval groundskeeper, oversaw the installation of the venue’s four drop-in pitches in April, but they have not yet fully settled. The uneven bounce of the pitch has raised safety concerns, particularly after Indian captain Rohit Sharma had to stop batting during the opening match against Ireland due to a shoulder injury. “I don’t know what to expect from the pitch, to be honest. We will prepare as if the conditions are going to be like this (for the Pakistan game). This is going to be a game where all XI of us will need to contribute,” Rohit said after the match against Ireland. The ICC issued a statement acknowledging the issues with the pitches: “The ICC recognises that the pitches used so far at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium have not played as consistently as we would have all wanted.” Pakistan has not yet adjusted to the stadium’s conditions. After losing to tournament newcomers USA, they flew into New York and took a rest day. Babar Azam and his team have had little time to adapt, which could be a disadvantage in this crucial match. A loss to India could severely impact their chances of qualifying. India may maintain their strategy of including an additional specialist fast bowler, but they might consider including Kuldeep Yadav due to his recent performance and favorable matchups against Pakistani batters. If included, one of Ravindra Jadeja or Axar Patel might miss out. The batting order is expected to remain with Rohit and Virat Kohli as openers and Rishabh Pant at No. 3. Pakistan will aim to recover from their loss to the USA. Babar Azam will need to improve his performance, as his 43 runs from 44 deliveries were below the expected strike rate for T20 cricket. The team will hope for a strong performance from their bowling attack, led by Shaheen Afridi.  

India vs. Pakistan T20 World Cup Match at Nassau County International Cricket Stadium Read More »

West Indies Display Dominance with Convincing Victory over Australia in Warm-up Match

Leave a Comment / / Media Entertainment & Art Community

The West Indies showcased their strength ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup with a commanding 35-run triumph over Australia in a warm-up encounter in Trinidad. Led by Nicholas Pooran’s explosive 75, the Caribbean side posted a formidable total of 257/4, setting the stage for a resounding victory. Pooran’s blistering knock, embellished with eight sixes, set the tone for the West Indies’ power-packed batting display. Supported by captain Rovman Powell (52), Sherfane Rutherford (47*), and opener Johnson Charles (40), the West Indies treated their home crowd to a spectacle of aggressive stroke-play, amassing a staggering 18 sixes in total. Despite a valiant effort from Australia’s Josh Inglis (55), Nathan Ellis (39), and Ashton Agar (28), the target proved insurmountable for the 2021 T20 World Cup champions. The West Indies bowlers, spearheaded by Gudakesh Motie (2/31) and Alzarri Joseph (2/44), restricted Australia to 222/7, securing a convincing victory. In another warm-up fixture, Namibia clinched a narrow three-run win over Papua New Guinea in a rain-affected encounter. Despite Papua New Guinea’s Assad Vala’s inspired spell (2/17), Namibia managed to edge past their opponents, reaching 93/6 before rain halted play at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy. The West Indies’ dominant performance against Australia signals their readiness for the upcoming T20 World Cup, bolstering their confidence as they aim to make a strong impression in the tournament.  

West Indies Display Dominance with Convincing Victory over Australia in Warm-up Match Read More »

Australia Captain Clarifies IPL Star’s Absence from T20 World Cup Selection

Leave a Comment / / Media Entertainment & Art Community

Australia’s newly appointed T20I captain, Mitch Marsh, has shed some light on why explosive batter Jake Fraser-McGurk missed out on selection for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, despite his stellar performances in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Fraser-McGurk, who has been in scintillating form for the Delhi Capitals in the ongoing IPL, was widely expected to be included in Australia’s squad for the T20 World Cup. However, his omission, along with former captain Steve Smith, surprised many cricket enthusiasts. Marsh acknowledged Fraser-McGurk’s outstanding talent and impressive performances in the IPL but emphasized that incumbent openers Travis Head and David Warner have been consistent performers for Australia and deserve their spots in the squad. While speaking on an Australian radio station, Marsh praised Fraser-McGurk’s contributions and expressed confidence in Australia’s current squad composition, stating, “We feel like we’ve got all bases covered within our team. Heady and David Warner have been fantastic for us, not only for a long period of time but over the last 18 months building towards this (T20) World Cup.” Fraser-McGurk’s remarkable strike rate and prolific run-scoring in the IPL have showcased his potential as a top-order performer in T20 cricket. Marsh acknowledged his rapid progress and predicted a bright future for the young talent, expressing optimism about his eventual return to the national team. With three half-centuries and a striking batting strike rate of 233.33 in the IPL, Fraser-McGurk’s dynamic batting style has caught the attention of cricket fans worldwide. Marsh highlighted his aggressive approach to the game and anticipated his continued success in the white-ball format. Despite missing out on the T20 World Cup selection this time, Fraser-McGurk’s impressive performances in domestic and franchise cricket suggest that he is a player to watch out for in the future, with Marsh expressing confidence in his potential to make a significant impact on the international stage.  

Australia Captain Clarifies IPL Star’s Absence from T20 World Cup Selection Read More »

IPL 2024 Rule Book: Two Bouncers Per Over, Two Referrals, No Stop Clock

Leave a Comment / / Media Entertainment & Art Community

The upcoming 2024 season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) will see significant changes in its rule book, maintaining the allowance of two bouncers per over for bowlers, a departure from previous seasons where only one short ball was permitted. Earlier introduced in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT), a national T20 championship in the BCCI domestic calendar, the second bouncer rule will now be a part of the IPL playing conditions as well. In contrast to T20 Internationals, where only one short ball is allowed, the IPL and other domestic T20 competitions will permit two bouncers per over, akin to Test and One Day International (ODI) matches. Former India pacer and Chennai Super Kings’ ex-bowling coach Laxmipathy Balaji hailed this decision as a positive move, citing its potential to enhance the bowlers’ arsenal and balance the contest between bat and ball. Balaji emphasized the significance of the second bouncer, particularly in the death overs, offering bowlers an additional strategic option. With the participation of top-class fast bowlers in the IPL, he anticipates thrilling contests between bat and ball. In another notable change, the IPL will continue with the rule of checking for a catch while a referral is made for stumping, differing from ICC regulations. BCCI officials justify this decision, stating that failing to check for a catch before reviewing a stumping could unfairly disadvantage the fielding side. Teams will retain two referrals and the ability to review wides and no balls, a rule introduced last year. However, the IPL will not adopt the stop clock rule, a recent addition to ICC playing conditions for white-ball international games.  

IPL 2024 Rule Book: Two Bouncers Per Over, Two Referrals, No Stop Clock Read More »

Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 to Grace Indian Shores Amidst Elections

Leave a Comment / / Media Entertainment & Art Community

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided to host the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 in India, despite the coinciding general elections. The cricket extravaganza is slated to kick off on March 22, synchronizing with the announcement of election dates, presenting a unique challenge for organizers. A BCCI source has quashed speculations of moving the tournament abroad, asserting, “There are no plans to shift the tournament outside the country, considering the general elections will also take place during that time. However, if any state provides valid reasons for not hosting matches, contingency plans include relocating matches to alternative venues.” The IPL 2024 auction, held in Dubai last month, witnessed unprecedented fervor as Australian speedster Mitchell Starc smashed records to become the highest-paid player in IPL history, securing a jaw-dropping Rs 24.75 crore deal with the Kolkata Knight Riders. The auction, boasting a 57% surge in viewership compared to the previous edition, garnered a total of 22.8 million viewers, according to BCCI Secretary Jay Shah. Defending champions, the Chennai Super Kings, led by the iconic MS Dhoni, are gearing up to retain their title. Kasi Viswanathan, CEO of the franchise, expressed confidence in Dhoni’s return, stating, “He has recovered well from his knee injury, undergoing rehabilitation programs and has commenced training. I am confident he will be fit to play by the start of the next IPL”.

Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 to Grace Indian Shores Amidst Elections Read More »

Hotstar Breaks Records with 59 Million Concurrent Viewers for World Cup Final, Surpassing Previous Milestone

Leave a Comment / / Media Entertainment & Art Community

Disney’s Hotstar achieves a groundbreaking milestone with 59 million concurrent viewers during a highly anticipated World Cup final cricket match in India. This surpasses the previous record of 53 million viewers set just a week earlier. With no significant cricket events in the near future, Hotstar is poised to maintain this record for at least six months. The platform now holds a substantial lead in concurrent viewership over its competitor, JioCinema, which peaked at 32 million earlier this year. This achievement occurs against the backdrop of Disney facing challenges in the Indian market, including a decline in digital subscribers. Disney CEO Bob Iger expressed a commitment to the Indian market but acknowledged the need to evaluate options. Preliminary talks with potential partners, including Reliance and private equity firms, have taken place. However, the dynamics of Star India have evolved, with market conditions prompting a shift in focus to core businesses. Hotstar’s subscriber base has experienced a decline of more than 23 million in the past year, according to Disney. The platform faces competition, notably from Viacom18’s JioCinema, led by Mukesh Ambani, who has attracted top executives from Star India and invested $3 billion to stream the IPL cricket tournament for five years. Despite these challenges, Disney had high expectations for the ICC Cricket World Cup, projecting over 50 million concurrent viewers and aiming to reach 82% of India’s total annual video users during the 50-day series.

Hotstar Breaks Records with 59 Million Concurrent Viewers for World Cup Final, Surpassing Previous Milestone Read More »

Disney+ Hotstar Sets New Peak Concurrent Viewership Record During India vs. South Africa Cricket Match

Leave a Comment / / Media Entertainment & Art Community
News on MEA

Digital concurrent viewership records were shattered during the India vs. South Africa cricket match when Virat Kohli achieved his 49th ODI century, tying with Sachin Tendulkar’s record. Disney+ Hotstar, the official streaming platform for the ongoing ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, reached a peak of 44 million concurrent viewers during this game. The World Cup has consistently seen new peak concurrent viewership records, and Disney+ Hotstar is offering free mobile access to these matches, including the India vs. South Africa and India vs. New Zealand clashes, which drew 43 million and 44 million peak concurrent viewers, respectively. This is a significant shift, as Disney+ Hotstar had previously put cricket content behind a paywall for several years. The strategy to provide free access to cricket matches seems to be paying off for Disney+ Hotstar, as they continue to break their own records. Prior to the ICC Cricket World Cup, JioCinema set a record with 32 million viewers during the Indian Premier League final between the Chennai Super Kings and Gujarat Titans. Sajith Sivanandan, Head of Disney+ Hotstar India, expressed gratitude for the unwavering support of users and their passion for cricket streaming. The platform is excited to see where this support takes them as the tournament progresses. Media experts believe that the growing popularity of streaming for sports events is due to the convenience of watching matches on mobile devices. As smartphone usage increases, digital viewership for cricket is expected to rise further. Disney+ Hotstar is also encouraging viewers to purchase subscriptions to enjoy ad-free entertainment content, although even premium subscribers will see ads during live sports broadcasts. To enhance the viewing experience, Disney+ Hotstar has collaborated with the International Cricket Council (ICC) to introduce MaxView, allowing cricket enthusiasts to watch matches in a vertical mode (9×14 portrait view). According to BARC data for the All India 2+ audience, the India vs. New Zealand match had 80 million peak concurrent viewers on Disney Star channels and Doordarshan, surpassing the 75.5 million viewers for the India vs. Pakistan match. Disney Star claims that the total viewership for the live broadcast of the World Cup has exceeded 400 million viewers for the first 26 matches. The TV viewership specifically for Disney Star channels in the All India 2+ audience is reported at 310 million.

Disney+ Hotstar Sets New Peak Concurrent Viewership Record During India vs. South Africa Cricket Match Read More »