ICC Women’s World Cup: Rain denies Pakistan victory over England

**ICC Women’s World Cup: Rain Denies Pakistan Victory Over England**

*By Rajdeep Saha | Oct 15, 2025 | 10:23 pm*

Rain played the ultimate spoilsport in Match 16 of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 held at R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Wednesday. Pakistan showcased a dominant performance against England and appeared well poised for a memorable win. However, the weather had the final say, denying Pakistan a much-needed victory.

England posted a total of 133/9 in their 31 overs. In reply, Pakistan began strongly, reaching 34/0 with a revised target of 113 runs. Unfortunately, rain interrupted play once again and the match was ultimately declared a no result.

**Match Summary**

The match saw England struggling early, falling to 79/7 after 25 overs before rain forced a suspension of play. When play resumed, the innings was reduced to 31 overs per side. England battled back to finish with 133/9, recovering from 75/5 in the final six overs.

Pakistan’s openers got off to a promising start, scoring 34 runs in 6.4 overs. But just as they were building momentum, rain returned and the match was called off, leaving both teams sharing the points.

**Highlights**

England’s batting effort was marked by wickets falling at regular intervals, preventing them from posting a challenging total. The standout performer with the bat was Charlie Dean, who top-scored for England with 33 runs.

For Pakistan, skipper Fatima Sana was exceptional with the ball, claiming four wickets for 27 runs in 6 overs. Sadia Iqbal also impressed, taking 2/16 in her 6 overs, including 2 maidens. Pakistan’s bowling kept England in check before rain intervened.

**Points Table Update**

Following this match, England continue to lead the standings. They have remained unbeaten after four matches, accumulating 7 points with a superior net run rate (NRR) of +1.864, edging out Australia in second place.

On the other hand, Pakistan remain at the bottom of the table with just one point from three games (one no result and three losses). Their campaign will need a strong turnaround in the upcoming fixtures if they hope to climb the rankings.

Stay tuned for more updates from the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/pakistan-and-england-women-s-world-cup-game-gets-washed-out/story

Afghanistan beat Bangladesh in 3rd ODI, complete clean sweep: Stats

**Afghanistan Complete Clean Sweep Against Bangladesh in 3rd ODI with 200-Run Victory**

*By Rajdeep Saha | October 15, 2025, 12:39 AM*

Afghanistan have sealed a comprehensive clean sweep in the three-match ODI series against Bangladesh, dominating the final game by a massive margin of 200 runs. The match, held in Abu Dhabi, saw Afghanistan post a formidable total of 293 for nine before bowling out Bangladesh for a mere 93 runs.

This series win mirrors Bangladesh’s recent success over Afghanistan in the T20I format by the same 3-0 margin earlier this month, highlighting the competitive nature between the two sides across formats.

### Afghanistan’s Batting Struggles and Recovery

Afghanistan’s innings began positively with an excellent opening partnership. Ibrahim Zadran and Rahmanullah Gurbaz added 99 runs for the first wicket, setting the foundation for a strong total. However, after Gurbaz’s dismissal, Afghanistan endured a mini-collapse, losing four wickets for just 15 runs within 25 balls.

Despite this setback, Mohammad Nabi’s explosive finishing ensured Afghanistan reached a challenging target. Nabi impressed with his powerful hitting, smashing three sixes in four balls off Mehidy Hasan Miraz, followed by another six and three fours off Hasan Mahmud during the final overs.

### Key Performers: Zadran and Nabi Shine

Ibrahim Zadran was Afghanistan’s top scorer, crafting a patient 95 runs that anchored the innings. Mohammad Nabi provided the much-needed acceleration with an aggressive 62 runs off 37 balls, proving to be the chief architect behind Afghanistan’s strong finishing.

Nabi’s late blitz helped Afghanistan surpass the 290-run mark, as the team was initially projected to end around 250-260 before his onslaught in the closing overs.

### Afghanistan’s Bowling Dominance

Afghanistan’s bowlers then ran through Bangladesh’s batting line-up. Rashid Khan set the tone early, taking three wickets in his first three overs, including the prized wicket of Towhid Hridoy on his very first delivery. This early breakthrough put Bangladesh under immense pressure.

Following Rashid’s impactful spell, Bilal Sami took charge with an outstanding bowling performance, claiming five wickets in total. His efforts helped bowl Bangladesh out for only 93 runs, sealing a commanding victory and completing Afghanistan’s series clean sweep.

**Summary:**
Afghanistan’s comprehensive 200-run victory over Bangladesh in the third ODI capped off a dominant 3-0 series victory. Key contributions from Ibrahim Zadran, Mohammad Nabi, and the lethal bowling spells from Rashid Khan and Bilal Sami proved decisive in the Abu Dhabi encounter.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/ban-vs-afg-3rd-odi-match-report-and-stats/story

Nat Sciver-Brunt hammers her 5th Women’s ODI WC century: Stats

**Nat Sciver-Brunt Smashes Her 5th ICC Women’s World Cup Century**

*By Rajdeep Saha | October 11, 2025, 7:13 PM*

England all-rounder Nat Sciver-Brunt showcased a masterclass innings by hammering her 5th ICC Women’s World Cup century. In a thrilling contest against Sri Lanka Women in Colombo on Saturday, Sciver-Brunt scored a commanding 117 runs off 117 balls, powering England to a total of 253/9 in their 50 overs.

Sciver-Brunt’s brilliant knock was central to England’s innings. Coming to the crease when the team was 49/2, she stabilized the innings and then took charge, forging a crucial 60-run partnership with captain Heather Knight for the third wicket. Throughout her innings, she maintained momentum with several 30-run stands and accelerated impressively towards the end.

The innings had a moment of drama as Sciver-Brunt was dropped early on by Udeshika Prabodhani when she was just on three runs—an error Sri Lanka would come to regret. Eventually, Prabodhani did manage to claim her wicket, but not before Sciver-Brunt inflicted substantial damage.

### Impressive Stats and Milestones

Sciver-Brunt’s 117-run innings included nine fours and two sixes, taking her World Cup tally to an impressive 954 runs at an average of 59.62. This knock marked her 5th century and 2nd fifty-plus score in the tournament, elevating her to the 8th-highest run-scorer in Women’s World Cup history. In doing so, she surpassed Australia’s Meg Lanning, who has 948 World Cup runs at an average of 52.66.

In terms of overall Women’s One Day Internationals (WODIs), this was Sciver-Brunt’s 10th hundred. She has amassed 4,241 runs in 124 matches (110 innings) at an average of 47.12, complemented by 25 fifties. Highlighting her dominance against Sri Lanka, she now has over 500 runs against them—523 runs from 12 matches (10 innings) with a remarkable average of 74.71. This century was her 5th score above fifty against Sri Lanka (2 hundreds and 3 fifties).

### Record-Breaking Feats for England

According to Cricbuzz, Sciver-Brunt now holds the second-highest number of centuries for England in Women’s ODIs, a testament to her consistency and class.

**Most hundreds for England Women in ODIs:**

1. Tammy Beaumont – 12 centuries (125 innings)
2. Nat Sciver-Brunt – 10 centuries (110 innings)
3. Charlotte Edwards – 9 centuries (180 innings)
4. Claire Taylor – 8 centuries (120 innings)

Nat Sciver-Brunt’s stunning performance in Colombo once again highlighted why she is one of the premier all-rounders in women’s cricket today. England will be counting on her firepower as the World Cup progresses.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/nat-sciver-brunt-hammers-century-versus-sri-lanka-in-women-s-wc/story

Premier League 2025-26, Arsenal overcome West Ham 2-0: Key stats

**Premier League 2025-26: Arsenal Overcome West Ham 2-0 – Key Stats**

*By Rajdeep Saha | Oct 04, 2025 | 10:27 pm*

Arsenal secured a convincing 2-0 victory over West Ham United on Matchday 7 of the Premier League 2025-26 season at the Emirates Stadium. Declan Rice broke the deadlock in the first half, while Bukayo Saka extended the lead with a penalty in the second half, sealing the win for the Gunners.

### Arsenal Go Top of the Table

With this win, Arsenal climb to the top of the Premier League standings, accumulating 16 points from 7 games with a record of 5 wins, 1 draw, and 1 loss. Their impressive goal difference now stands at +11.

On the other hand, West Ham remain rooted in the bottom three after suffering their fifth defeat of the season. The Hammers have managed just 4 points from 1 win, 1 draw, and 5 losses so far.

### Player Highlights

**Bukayo Saka Marks 200th Premier League Appearance with a Goal**

In his milestone 200th Premier League appearance, Bukayo Saka opened up another chapter in his flourishing career by scoring his 55th goal for Arsenal. The winger has also contributed 45 assists, bringing his total goal involvements in the Premier League to 100 – a significant achievement that places him as the 8th Arsenal player and the third Englishman to reach this milestone.

**Declan Rice Nets His 22nd Premier League Goal**

Former West Ham star Declan Rice continues to shine for Arsenal, scoring his 22nd Premier League goal in his 284th appearance. Notably, 12 of these goals have come while wearing the Arsenal shirt, achieved in just 80 appearances.

### Match Stats Overview

– **Possession**: Arsenal dominated with 68% possession compared to West Ham’s 32%.
– **Shots**: The Gunners registered 21 shots, including 5 on target, while West Ham managed just 4 attempts, none of which were on target.
– **Touches in Opposition Box**: Arsenal had 47 touches inside the West Ham penalty area, in stark contrast to West Ham’s 7.
– **Corners**: Arsenal earned 8 corners; West Ham had 3.

### Match Summary

**First Half**

Arsenal started strong but were dealt an injury blow as Martin Odegaard had to leave the pitch. In response, manager Mikel Arteta pushed Declan Rice into a more advanced role, bringing on Martin Zubimendi. Rice capitalized on this tactical tweak, slotting home after Eberechi Eze’s shot was parried by West Ham goalkeeper Alphonse Areola.

The Gunners maintained control throughout the first half, limiting West Ham’s attacking threats.

**Second Half**

Arsenal continued to dominate the match and secured the win late in the second half. In the 67th minute, Jurrien Timber was fouled by El Hadji Malick Diouf inside the box, awarding Arsenal a penalty which Bukayo Saka calmly converted.

This goal proved decisive, ensuring a hard-fought and well-deserved victory for Mikel Arteta’s side.

### Opta Stats and Records

– This match marked Mikel Arteta’s 300th game in charge of Arsenal across all competitions. With this win, he has now recorded 177 victories, alongside 56 draws and 67 defeats.
– Bukayo Saka’s 100 Premier League goal involvements place him among the elite at Arsenal, underlining his pivotal role in the team’s success.
– West Ham’s tally of 4 points after 7 league games matches their joint-lowest return at this stage in a Premier League season.

Arsenal’s triumph keeps their momentum going as they aim to challenge for the title, while West Ham face an uphill battle to climb out of the relegation zone. Fans will be hoping for a swift recovery from key injuries as the season progresses.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/arsenal-down-sorry-west-ham-in-premier-league/story

Premier League, Tottenham Hotspur pip Leeds United 2-1: Key stats

**Tottenham Hotspur Overcome Leeds United with a 2-1 Victory at Elland Road**
*By Rajdeep Saha | Oct 04, 2025, 07:52 pm*

Tottenham Hotspur secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Leeds United on Matchday 7 of the Premier League 2025-26 season at Elland Road. The win was particularly meaningful for Spurs, who have climbed to 2nd place in the Premier League table.

### Match Summary

Mathys Tel and Mohammed Kudus were the goalscorers for Tottenham, with both goals deflecting off Leeds defender Pascal Struijk, which ultimately proved decisive. Leeds’ Noah Okafor had leveled in the first half, giving the home side hope, but they were unable to find an equalizer despite their efforts.

### Thrilling Encounter at Elland Road

The match was a thrilling contest, with Leeds United putting up a strong fight in front of their passionate home crowd. However, it was Kudus’s first goal for Spurs that sealed the victory. The Ghanaian international took advantage of a mistake by Leeds’ Gabriel Gudmundsson and fired a low shot that deflected off Struijk, beating Leeds keeper Karl Darlow.

Despite intense pressure in the closing stages, Leeds could not break down Tottenham’s defense to salvage a point.

### Team Evolution: Spurs Show Resilience Under Thomas Frank

Under the leadership of manager Thomas Frank, Tottenham Hotspur have demonstrated remarkable resilience this season. The team has made significant progress compared to the previous Premier League campaign, which saw them struggle and part ways with former manager Ange Postecoglou.

Facing a spirited Leeds side at Elland Road, Spurs held their ground and displayed composure to secure the valuable win on the road.

### Kudus Shines for Tottenham

According to Opta, Tottenham now rank second in the Premier League for the number of different nationalities to have scored goals for the club (45), just behind Fulham (47). Mohammed Kudus became the first Ghanaian to score for Spurs.

Kudus, who joined Tottenham from West Ham this summer, scored his 14th Premier League goal (13 assists) in his 72nd appearance. So far this season, in seven Premier League matches, he has contributed 1 goal and 4 assists for Spurs.

### Richarlison Completes 250 Premier League Games

Tottenham forward Richarlison reached a significant milestone by making his 250th Premier League appearance. The Brazilian becomes the fifth player from his nation to achieve this feat, joining the esteemed company of Willian (327), Ederson (276), Fernandinho (264), and Roberto Firmino (256). Richarlison previously played for Everton before joining Spurs.

### Match Stats

– **Possession:** Leeds 57% | Tottenham 43%
– **Expected Goals (xG):** Leeds 1.66 | Tottenham 0.52
– **Shots:** Leeds 16 (4 on target) | Tottenham 9 (3 on target)
– **Corners:** Leeds 4 | Tottenham 1
– **Woodwork Hits:** Both teams hit the woodwork once
– **Big Chances Created:** Leeds 2 | Tottenham 1
– **Touches in Opposition Box:** Leeds 21 | Tottenham 18

### Premier League Table Standings

After seven matches, Thomas Frank’s Tottenham sit 2nd in the Premier League with 14 points (W4 D2 L1). Leeds United are placed 13th with 8 points from seven games.

### Opta Insights

– Tottenham have won three of their opening four away Premier League matches this season (D1), matching their total away wins from the entire last season’s final 13 away games.
– Leeds have lost eight of their last ten Premier League games in which they conceded the first goal.
– Leeds have lost ten of their last twelve Premier League matches against Tottenham, managing just one win and one draw.

Tottenham’s performance at Elland Road highlights their growing confidence and ability to grind out results on the road this season, while Leeds will be looking to bounce back after a disappointing defeat on home soil.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/tottenham-down-leeds-united-in-premier-league/story