Blizzard Unveils Xal’atath as New Heroes of the Storm Hero at BlizzCon 2026
After years in maintenance mode, Heroes of the Storm received a surprise content update during BlizzCon 2026. Blizzard announced that Xal’atath, the central antagonist of the current World of Warcraft storyline, will join the Nexus roster. The hero arrives on the public test realm this Monday, with a full live launch scheduled for late September.
Breaking a Four-Year Content Drought
Heroes of the Storm, Blizzard’s take on the MOBA genre popularized by the Warcraft III DOTA mod and later dominated by League of Legends, entered maintenance mode in December 2020 following the release of the hero Hogger. Since then, the developer committed only to bug fixes and occasional balance patches. This week’s reveal marks the first new hero announcement in nearly six years.
The game distinguishes itself from competitors by removing the traditional item economy and emphasizing team-level talent choices, creating a more accessible but distinctively paced experience. While this approach cultivated a dedicated niche within the Blizzard community, it struggled to pull players from established titles like League of Legends.
Xal’atath: From Warcraft Villain to Playable Hero
Xal’atath serves as the primary threat in World of Warcraft: The War Within, wielding void magic capable of destroying entire cities—including the magical hub of Dalaran. Her origins remain mysterious, but her cosmic-scale ambitions make her a high-profile addition to the Nexus, which already draws characters from Overwatch, StarCraft, Diablo, and Warcraft.
Blizzard Tempers Revival Expectations
Despite the new release, Blizzard signaled caution regarding a full-scale revival. The company indicated that future updates for Heroes of the Storm will depend on how well Xal’atath is received by the player base. This conditional approach mirrors a broader industry trend where dormant titles like Age of Empires III, The Witcher 3, and Diablo II have received significant updates years after their initial launches.
Strategic Potential in a Crowded Market
Industry observers note that Heroes of the Storm possesses untapped potential as a crossover platform—potentially serving as Xbox’s answer to Super Smash Bros. With Microsoft’s expanding portfolio, future additions could theoretically include characters from partnered studios such as CD Projekt RED’s Geralt of Rivia, or first-party icons like the DOOM Slayer and Master Chief. A console release could further differentiate the title in a market where League of Legends remains the dominant PC-focused competitor.
Emmy Rossum has returned to the spotlight with a leading role in the new Hulu crime thriller Furious, but her breakout performance remains firmly rooted in the Showtime dramedy that defined a decade of television. Five years after its series finale, the American adaptation of Shameless is preparing to exit Netflix, closing a significant chapter for one of streaming’s most-watched library titles.
The Gallagher Legacy on Showtime
Premiering on January 9, 2011, Shameless introduced audiences to the chaotic Gallagher clan of Chicago’s South Side. The series centers on Frank Gallagher (William H. Macy), a perpetually intoxicated patriarch who abandons his parental duties, leaving his eldest daughter Fiona (Rossum) to raise her five younger siblings. Second in command is Philip “Lip” Gallagher, played by Jeremy Allen White years before his award-winning turn in The Bear.
Over 11 seasons and 134 episodes, the show evolved into a cultural phenomenon. It balanced dark comedy with unflinching drama, portraying a family navigating poverty, addiction, teenage pregnancy, mental illness, and sexuality without sanitizing their morally complex survival tactics. The ensemble—including Cameron Monaghan, Emma Kenney, Ethan Cutkosky, Steve Howey, and Shanola Hampton—allowed characters to age and change organically, a rarity in long-form sitcom-adjacent storytelling.
Critical Acclaim and Streaming Longevity
The series earned 16 Primetime Emmy nominations and four wins during its run. Critics and audiences aligned in their praise, reflected in an 82% Tomatometer score and an 83% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes. After its linear broadcast run, Shameless found a massive second life on Netflix, where it arrived in 2016 and remained a top-performing library title for nearly a decade.
Departure Date and the Streaming Void
According to What’s on Netflix, the licensing agreement for Shameless expires in October. All 11 seasons will be removed from the platform on October 11. Notably, the series is not currently available on Paramount+ with Showtime—the corporate streaming home of the Showtime brand—leaving U.S. viewers without a major subscription streaming option for the foreseeable future. Paramount has not yet announced whether the series will return to its platform, and its October content slate has not been published.
Final Window to Binge
For newcomers and longtime fans alike, the next few weeks represent the last opportunity to stream the complete series on a major platform without additional cost. Given its reputation for character-driven storytelling and boundary-pushing subject matter, Shameless remains a high-reward binge-watch before its streaming future is resolved.
Tulsa Golden Hurricane vs Sam Houston State Bearkats: Week 2 Prediction, Odds & Best Bet
The Tulsa Golden Hurricane travel to Huntsville, Texas, to face the Sam Houston State Bearkats on Saturday, September 12, 2026. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. EDT with the game streaming live on ESPN+.
Tulsa vs Sam Houston State Odds & Betting Lines
Oddsmakers have installed Tulsa as a significant road favorite. Here is a snapshot of the current consensus lines:
Point Spread: Tulsa -11.5 (-110) / Sam Houston State +11.5 (-110)
Over/Under: 51.5 (-108 Over / -112 Under)
Moneyline: Tulsa -490 / Sam Houston State +365
Tulsa vs Sam Houston State Prediction & Best Bet
Best Bet: Tulsa -13.5 (Find the best available line on live NCAAF odds pages)
Why Tulsa Covers the Spread
The analytical edge leans heavily toward the Golden Hurricane after reviewing the Sam Houston State vs. Troy film from Week 1. The Bearkats’ performance raised serious concerns on both sides of the ball.
Sam Houston State Offensive Struggles
Sam Houston State allowed 13 tackles for loss against a completely rebuilt Troy front seven. Quarterback Landyn Locke operated under constant duress and struggled with decision-making throughout the contest. The entire offense appeared disjointed and inconsistent, a troubling sign heading into a matchup against a superior defensive line.
Defensive Questions for the Bearkats
While Sam Houston State’s defense generated pressure, they surrendered numerous explosive plays when the pass rush failed to arrive on time. The unit’s performance came against a Troy offense that may not be a reliable benchmark for quality.
Tulsa’s Advantages
Baylor Hayes’ Development
Quarterback Baylor Hayes has made a shocking leap from Year 1 to Year 2. His mobility, pocket poise, decision-making, and accuracy were on full display against Oklahoma State in Week 1. Hayes possesses the skill set to exploit a Sam Houston State secondary that gave up big plays when pressured.
Coaching Mindset
Head coach Tre Lamb’s post-game press conference following the Oklahoma State game focused almost entirely on areas for improvement. This suggests the Golden Hurricane will not be complacent in Week 2 and will enter the matchup with a sharp focus.
Trench Dominance
Tulsa’s defensive line projects to create major problems for the Bearkats’ offense. Locke is unlikely to find comfort in the pocket, and Sam Houston State’s ground game should struggle to establish consistency. Conversely, the Bearkats’ front seven showed vulnerability against the run; Troy—an abysmal rushing team in 2025—found success running outside zone against them. Tulsa’s rushing attack should fare significantly better.
Final Score Projection
The current spread of -11.5 does not appear high enough. The expectation is for Tulsa to win by two touchdowns or more, making the Golden Hurricane at -13.5 (or better) the preferred side.
Widow’s Bay Season 2 Filming Window Revealed: Production Targets March Start
Apple TV+’s breakout horror-comedy series Widow’s Bay is moving toward its second season, with star Kate O’Flynn confirming an anticipated filming window. The series, which debuted to critical acclaim in April 2026, holds a “Certified Fresh” 98% critics’ score and a 92% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes. Its freshman run earned 19 Emmy Award nominations, including eight Creative Arts Emmy wins for categories such as Outstanding Casting for a Comedy Series and Outstanding Guest Actress for Betty Gilpin. Matthew Rhys, Kate O’Flynn, Stephen Root, Dale Dickey, and Hamish Linklater also secured acting nominations.
O’Flynn Confirms March Production Target at TIFF
During an interview with ScreenRant’s Liam Crowley at the Toronto International Film Festival while promoting her new film Tender Loving Care, O’Flynn shared the latest timeline for the show’s return. While she emphasized she does not have a confirmed start date, she indicated the production is aiming for a March launch.
Zip. I don’t know. I know it’s hopefully March time, I think, we might be filming season 2. But I don’t know anything else about it, honestly.
Season 2 Renewal and Casting Updates
Apple renewed Widow’s Bay for a second season ahead of the season one finale. Since the renewal, the writers’ room has been active, and Jeff Hiller has been promoted from guest star to series regular. With filming now targeting March, the series is positioned to return more than a year after its debut season concluded in June 2026. Based on the anticipated production schedule, a late 2027 premiere appears to be the earliest realistic window.
Fan-Favorite Character Patricia Moyer Returns
O’Flynn portrays Patricia Moyer, assistant to Mayor Tom Loftis (Matthew Rhys). The character became a standout during season one, particularly in episode four, “Beach Reads,” which shifted focus to her storyline and currently holds the series’ highest IMDb rating at 8.8/10. Her performance earned an Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series nomination, placing her alongside nominees Dale Dickey, Hannah Einbinder (Hacks), Janelle James (Abbott Elementary), Michelle Pfeiffer (Margo’s Got Money Troubles), Megan Stalter (Hacks), and Jessica Williams (Shrinking).
Where the Story Left Off: Season 1 Finale Fallout
The season one ending left several critical threads unresolved. Mayor Tom Loftis must conceal that his son, Evan (Kingston Rumi Southwick), is a descendant of Richard Warren (Hamish Linklater) to protect him, a decision that ensures the island’s curse persists. Patricia and Wyck Crawford (Stephen Root), who spent the season helping Tom attempt to break the curse, remain unaware of this secret—a revelation that would force difficult confrontations.
Meanwhile, Sheriff Bechir Clemmons (Kevin Carroll) grapples with the consequences of his child being born on the island, binding them to it permanently, and the fallout from shooting Ruth Livingston (Katherine Callan) in the finale. The island’s mythology and the demonic entity at the center of Richard Warren’s deal remain the overarching threat for season two.
Streaming Availability
All episodes of Widow’s Bay season one are currently streaming on Apple TV+.
Packers Secure Tucker Kraft with Four-Year, $75 Million Extension Before Season Opener
The Green Bay Packers and star tight end Tucker Kraft have agreed to a four-year contract extension with a base value of $75 million, finalizing the deal one day before the regular-season opener against the Minnesota Vikings, sources told ESPN. The agreement could reach up to $92 million and includes a $26.5 million signing bonus, sources said.
Contract Details Elevate Kraft Among NFL’s Highest-Paid Tight Ends
Kraft’s extension carries an average annual salary of $18.75 million, making him the third-highest-paid tight end in the league. According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, he will receive $31.5 million in the first year of the deal. Only George Kittle of the San Francisco 49ers and Trey McBride of the Arizona Cardinals, both at $19 million per season, rank higher in average annual value among tight ends.
Remarkable Recovery from Torn ACL Fuels Confidence
The 25-year-old Kraft is coming off a torn ACL in his right knee that prematurely ended what had the potential to be a record-breaking season for a Packers tight end. Through the first nine weeks of the 2025 season, he caught 32 passes for 489 yards and six touchdowns. At the time of his injury, only one tight end had more touchdowns and only two had more receiving yards.
Kraft’s rehabilitation progressed ahead of schedule. He remained in Green Bay for most of the offseason to rehab, and at his nine-month checkup, doctors told him his knee showed healing comparable to someone more than a year post-surgery. Although he began training camp on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list, he returned to individual drills by Day 3, participated in 11-on-11 periods by August 16, and was taking hits in a joint practice with the Cardinals by August 26.
“He doesn’t shy away from the work,” Packers coach Matt LaFleur said at the time.
Kraft Rejects Holdout Strategy, Prioritizes Team Success
Despite returning to full contact without a new contract, Kraft maintained that holding out was never an option.
“I’m not someone to orchestrate a holdout, mostly because they can fine me but mostly because I know the value I bring to this team,” Kraft said. “And I think best odds of us playing in the postseason are with me early on in the season, and I’m just going to continue to attack everything the same way I attacked my rehab. I want to be out on the field, and I want to play every play that I can play.”
Kraft’s stated goal throughout the process was to be ready for the season opener without limitations, though he acknowledged the possibility of a snap count early in the year.
“They’re gonna take into account my rep range probably until halfway through the season,” Kraft said. “Then they’re just gonna pat me on the ass and send me out there, send me to the wolves. How this offense is, I’m gonna get as comfortable as I can playing those reps in those games that I was playing previously, those games when I was 50-60 reps, 85 reps against the Cowboys in overtime. It’s just the more you can do, all the hats I can wear on the offense, I want to bring everything to the table.”
Extension Completes Busy Offseason for Packers’ Core
The Kraft deal continues a series of contract extensions by Green Bay this offseason. In the past four months, the Packers have signed long-term deals with wide receivers Jayden Reed and Christian Watson plus defensive tackle Devonte Wyatt. With Kraft now locked in, Green Bay has every offensive starter under contract through at least the 2028 season, with several signed beyond that.
Negotiations Reflect Mutual Commitment
General manager Brian Gutekunst made no secret of his desire to retain Kraft long term, and Kraft repeatedly expressed his wish to remain with the team that drafted him in the third round in 2023. Still, the process took longer than some anticipated.
“It’s in the best interest to try to get something done, but these things take time,” Gutekunst said at the start of training camp. “We’ve gone through a bunch of extensions this summer, kind of knowing this was going to be the one right about now. We have a little bit of time because he’s just not there yet, but I would expect hopefully that would get done, but you never know how they’re going to go.”
With the extension finalized, the Packers enter the 2026 season with their offensive core intact and their emerging star tight end secured for the foreseeable future.
Texas State Receiver Kole Sparks Misses Key Non-Conference Game
Texas State wide receiver Kole Sparks was absent from warmup drills ahead of Saturday’s matchup and was observed on the sideline without his pads or helmet, signaling he will not play in what is considered the most significant non-conference game on the Bobcats’ schedule.
A team spokesperson had not responded to a request for comment from the American-Statesman at the time of publication.
Record-Setting Production in 2025
Sparks enters the contest as the program’s leading receiver during the Football Bowl Subdivision era. In the 2025 season, he hauled in 84 passes for 1,200 yards, establishing new program records in both categories.
His availability has been a storyline throughout the early season. Sparks sat out the majority of preseason camp leading up to the Week 1 opener. He did make his season debut last week against the University of Texas, though he was limited to four receptions for 19 yards.
Next-Man-Up Approach for Bobcats Offense
With Sparks sidelined, the Texas State passing attack will rely heavily on a trio of receivers: Chris Dawn Jr., Tucker Cusano, and Zechariah Sample. Kylen Evans provides an additional depth option at the position.
Despite the depth chart options, Sparks’ absence represents a substantial blow to an offense that leaned heavily on his route-running and yard-after-catch ability during his record-setting campaign. The coaching staff will need to scheme touches for the remaining playmakers to compensate for the lost production against a quality non-conference opponent.
San Jose Earthquakes vs Houston Dynamo FC: Match Preview, Live Stream, Kick-off Time & How to Watch
San Jose Earthquakes host Houston Dynamo FC at PayPal Park in San Jose on September 12, 2026 at 10:30 PM ET in a pivotal MLS Western Conference fixture. The match carries contrasting implications for both clubs as they navigate the latter stages of the regular season.
How to Watch San Jose Earthquakes vs Houston Dynamo FC
The game will be broadcast exclusively on Apple TV, which holds the rights to every MLS match in 2026. The match is included as part of a standard Apple TV subscription with no local or national blackout restrictions. This means subscribers can stream the game live without geographic limitations within the broadcast territory.
Match Context & Team News
San Jose Earthquakes: Building Momentum at Home
Bruce Arena’s side sits fifth in the Western Conference and enters this fixture on the back of a morale-boosting 3-2 victory over San Diego FC on September 10. That result snapped a difficult run and gave the Earthquakes genuine belief heading into this home encounter.
Team News: Bruce Arena has not confirmed a probable lineup ahead of this fixture. No injuries or suspensions are currently listed for San Jose Earthquakes, and updates will be added closer to kick-off as further information becomes available.
Houston Dynamo FC: Consistency at the Top
Ben Olsen’s team occupies second place in the Western Conference and has lost just once in their last five matches, grinding out results with a disciplined defensive structure. The Dynamo’s most recent outing produced a 2-1 win over Real Salt Lake on September 10, a result that keeps them firmly in the mix at the top of the West.
Team News: Ben Olsen has similarly not released confirmed team news for Houston Dynamo FC. No players are listed as unavailable for the away side at this stage, and further squad information is expected as the match approaches.
The head-to-head record between these clubs is tight. The most recent meeting ended 0-0 at Shell Energy Stadium on August 30, 2026. San Jose will be looking to use home advantage to tip the balance in their favour.
Last Five Meetings
Aug 30, 2026: Houston Dynamo FC 0-0 San Jose Earthquakes (MLS)
Aug 2025: San Jose Earthquakes 2-1 Houston Dynamo FC (at Houston)
May 2025: San Jose Earthquakes 3-3 Houston Dynamo FC (at PayPal Park)
Jul 2024: Houston Dynamo FC 1-0 San Jose Earthquakes (at San Jose)
Mar 2024: Houston Dynamo FC 2-1 San Jose Earthquakes (at Houston)
Summary: Each side holds two wins with one draw across the last five meetings. Goal tally: San Jose 7, Houston 5.
Western Conference Standings Context
In the MLS Western Conference table, Houston Dynamo FC sit second while San Jose Earthquakes are placed fifth. Both teams are in contention for CONCACAF Champions League qualification spots, adding further weight to this encounter.
How to Watch with a VPN
If you are travelling abroad or want to access your usual streaming services from a different location, you may encounter geo-restrictions. A Virtual Private Network (VPN) can help bypass these blocks.
A VPN, such as ExpressVPN, establishes a secure, encrypted connection online. By virtually changing your location to a country where the game is being broadcast, you can watch your favourite team live. You can also consult our guide to the best VPNs for streaming sports.
Step-by-Step VPN Guide
Download & Install: Sign up to ExpressVPN or another reputable VPN service and download the app on your device.
Connect to a Server: Open the app and select a server location where the match is being shown (e.g., if you are in the UK but want to watch a US stream, connect to a US server).
Clear Cache: Sometimes your browser holds onto your old location. Clear your cookies or refresh your browser to ensure the change takes effect.
Start Streaming: Go to your broadcaster’s website or app and enjoy the game.
How to Watch on the Big Screen
Watching on your phone or laptop is fine, but live sports belongs on the big screen. Here is how to get the VPN working on your TV:
Smart TVs & Fire Stick
Most Android-based TVs and devices like the Amazon Fire TV Stick or Google Chromecast with Google TV have native VPN apps. Simply search for your VPN provider in the app store on your TV, log in, and connect just like you would on your phone.
Apple TV, Roku & Consoles
These devices often don’t support direct VPN apps. The easiest workaround is to use Smart DNS (usually found in your VPN account settings) or Mirror/Cast the stream from your VPN-connected phone or laptop to your TV.
Cruz Azul’s Winless Streak Against América at Estadio Banorte Extends to Seven Matches
Cruz Azul heads into their upcoming clash against Club América burdened by a seven-match winless run at the Estadio Banorte, the iconic venue known as the Coloso de Santa Úrsula. Since La Máquina’s last victory over the Águilas at this ground five years ago, the azulcremas have secured five wins and two draws on their home turf, a stadium that has hosted three FIFA World Cups.
Recent History Favors América at the Coloso de Santa Úrsula
Over the past five years, Cruz Azul has managed four victories against América, but geography tells the story. Three of those wins came at the Estadio Olímpico Universitario, while the remaining triumph occurred at the Estadio Ciudad de los Deportes. Both venues, along with the Estadio Cuauhtémoc, served as temporary homes for the cementeros during recent seasons before their return to the Coloso de Santa Úrsula for the current Apertura 2026 campaign.
The most recent encounter at the renovated stadium ended in a 1-1 draw during the Clausura 2026 tournament.
When Did Cruz Azul Last Beat América at Estadio Banorte?
The last time Cruz Azul tasted victory over América at the Estadio Banorte was November 1, 2021. Managed by Juan Reynoso, La Máquina acted as the administrative home side and secured a dramatic 2-1 win over a Santiago Solari-led América squad.
Roberto Alvarado opened the scoring just before halftime (45′). Federico Viñas equalized for the visitors early in the second half (51′), but Jonathan Rodríguez emerged as the hero in stoppage time, converting a penalty to seal the 2-1 victory.
Breakdown of the Seven-Match Winless Run
Since that Apertura 2021 triumph, Cruz Azul has failed to secure a win at the Banorte. The streak began with a goalless draw in the Clausura 2022 and includes the historic 7-0 thrashing in the Apertura 2022, as well as the second leg of the Clausura 2024 final.
The stadium’s renovation for the 2026 World Cup forced Cruz Azul into a nomadic period, playing home matches at the Estadio Ciudad de los Deportes, Estadio Olímpico Universitario, and Estadio Cuauhtémoc. América, meanwhile, received permission to play as the home side at the renovated Coloso de Santa Úrsula ahead of the World Cup, leading to the Clausura 2026 Matchday 14 fixture being held there, resulting in the aforementioned 1-1 draw.
The Seven Matches Without a Win for Cruz Azul at Estadio Banorte:
Clausura 2026: América 1-1 Cruz Azul
Clausura 2024 Final (Second Leg): América 1-0 Cruz Azul
Clausura 2024 (Regular Season): América 1-0 Cruz Azul
Twenty-five years after the September 11 terrorist attacks, Iowa U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley recalled the chaos and confusion inside the U.S. Capitol that morning, describing a scene of frantic evacuation and a stark lack of preparedness that contrasts sharply with today’s security protocols.
Confusion and Evacuation at the Capitol
On the morning of September 11, 2001, Grassley was conducting radio interviews inside the U.S. Capitol Building in Washington, D.C., when the first plane struck the World Trade Center’s North Tower. He initially believed the crash was a terrible accident. That perception changed moments later when the second plane hit the South Tower.
“Within five minutes, policeman knocks on the door and say, ‘You got to get out of here. You got to get out of here,’” Grassley said.
As staff and lawmakers fled the building and first responders rushed in, Grassley waited outside the Capitol with colleagues. He noted that at the time, there was no established safety plan for an attack of that magnitude.
No Evacuation Plan Existed
Two other planes crashed that day, including United Airlines Flight 93, which investigators believe was targeting the U.S. Capitol before passengers intervened. Reflecting on how close he and others may have come to disaster, Grassley emphasized the vulnerability they faced.
“I reflected on this afterwards that if the if that plane was going to hit the U.S. Capitol building where we were standing was probably going to be just as dead as what we were,” Grassley said. “There was no plans for evacuation. Today we have all sorts of plans to what to do under similar circumstances.”
Following the evacuation, Grassley and his wife took shelter in a staffer’s home while he and his colleagues worked to understand the full scope of the attacks unfolding across the country.
Reflections on Unity and Division
Looking back a quarter-century later, Grassley said he remains struck by the patriotism and national unity that emerged in the aftermath of the attacks. However, he expressed doubt that the country would respond the same way today.
“Politics has divided the country.”
The senator’s remarks underscore how the events of September 11 reshaped not only national security infrastructure but also the political landscape, leaving a legacy of both resilience and deepening partisan divides.
Afghanistan Seek Historic First Win Over India in Delhi T20I Opener
Afghanistan will host India for the first time in international cricket at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi, a venue that sits at the dividing line between Old and New Delhi. The ground lies roughly 12.5 kilometres from Lajpat Nagar, a neighbourhood originally established as a refugee colony and now known as “Mini Kabul” for its vibrant Afghan community, complete with restaurants, nut shops, pharmacies, and currency exchanges advertising in Persian script.
While the local atmosphere offers a warm welcome, the Afghan cricketers arrive with a competitive edge. Having not played a T20 International since the World Cup in February, the team — under new captain Ibrahim Zadran but with their core intact — sees a serious opportunity against an Indian side in transition.
Form and Context
Since becoming the first team to successfully defend a T20 World Cup title, India have lost series in Ireland — their first series defeat in three years — and in England. The subsequent win in Zimbabwe offered limited insight, but the hosts are now nearing full strength with the returns of Jasprit Bumrah and Varun Chakravarthy; only Hardik Pandya and Harshit Rana are sidelined by injury.
Afghanistan welcome back seamer Naveen-ul-Haq, who missed the World Cup through injury. The only other squad changes are the inclusions of backup wicketkeeper Noor ul Rahman and backup allrounder Nangeyalia Kharote. After losing the Test and all three ODIs on their tour of India earlier this year, Afghanistan are eager to register their first-ever international win over India, the only Full Member nation they have yet to defeat.
Recent Form (Last Five Completed T20Is)
Afghanistan: W W L L L
India: W W W L L
Key Players in Focus: Rashid Khan and Shreyas Iyer
Relieved of the captaincy, Rashid Khan has rediscovered his wicket-taking form after a lean patch in the last two IPL seasons (ten and nine wickets respectively). He will look to carry that momentum into the international arena and spearhead the attack with his experience. In his only Delhi appearance during this year’s IPL, Rashid claimed 3 for 17 in a one-run victory for Gujarat Titans.
For India, Shreyas Iyer carries the dubious distinction of leading the side to their first series defeat in three years. The spotlight intensifies with the return of Sanju Samson to the squad, forcing Iyer to choose two openers from Samson, teenage prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, and Abhishek Sharma. Samson was Player of the Tournament at the T20 World Cup, Sooryavanshi earned Player of the Series in Zimbabwe, and Abhishek was preferred over Samson when Sooryavanshi debuted in England. Whoever Iyer selects, he will be determined to stamp his authority as captain with substantial runs.
Team News and Probable XIs
Afghanistan’s primary selection dilemma revolves around their seam attack. They must decide whether to play one or two specialist seamers alongside allrounder Azmatullah Omarzai. If only one seamer is chosen, the choice lies between the experienced Fazalhaq Farooqi and the returning Naveen-ul-Haq. Playing both could force one of the spinners, Mujeeb Ur Rahman or Noor Ahmad, to sit out.
Afghanistan (Probable): 1 Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), 2 Ibrahim Zadran (capt), 3 Gulbadin Naib, 4 Sediqullah Atal, 5 Darwish Rasooli, 6 Azmatullah Omarzai, 7 Mohammad Nabi, 8 Rashid Khan, 9 Mujeeb Ur Rahman, 10 Noor Ahmad, 11 Fazalhaq Farooqi / Naveen-ul-Haq
India also face a plethora of allrounder options: Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, and Shivam Dube. Bumrah, Varun, and Arshdeep Singh are likely the three specialist bowlers, but Rana’s absence creates a headache at number eight — whether to play a specialist bowler who cannot bat or a batting allrounder who may not reliably deliver four overs. The approach has fluctuated: an allrounder at eight in England, a specialist bowler in Zimbabwe.
Delhi was not among the highest-scoring venues during the recent IPL, yet still conceded a healthy 9.63 runs per over. With short boundaries, the ground should produce big totals unless early-season seam movement or a lack of pace intervenes. The monsoon has largely withdrawn from northern India, and any residual cloud cover is unlikely to affect the night match.
Stats and Trivia
If Vaibhav Sooryavanshi plays, he will become the youngest player from a Full Member nation to feature in an international match in India.
Mohammad Nabi is already the oldest man from a Full Member team to play a T20I in India.
Shreyas Iyer has won the toss in each of his first nine international matches as captain, a record.
Nabi needs 52 runs to become the first Afghan to reach 2,500 T20I runs.
Rashid Khan is seven wickets away from becoming the first man to claim 200 T20I wickets.
Quotes
“It is a new responsibility for me as a player and as a captain now. I have to take the right decisions, especially under pressure. With [Rashid Khan], there is understanding between us. When he was captain, I was helping him as vice-captain. And we have played enough cricket here in India. We know the conditions, how to play, how to adjust ourselves. We have played the T20 World Cup. We have played the ODI World Cup as well. We know the conditions very well. We just need to execute our plans.”
“The amount of matches a player is playing continuously, rigorously, he is bound to get injured some way or the other because the intensity is pretty high. We also need to understand that no player thinks of getting injured deliberately. It is because they are putting in the effort for the team, and if that effort turns out to be on the negative side, you can’t control it. All you can control is whoever is available on that given day, we give confidence to that particular player.”
