Wishlist0
0
Continue Shopping

 +91 91155 12977

Home / Blog (Page 445)

Blog

Shubman Gill Targets T20 Improvement as India Builds for 2026 World Cup Defense

Shubman Gill Targets T20 Improvement as India Builds for 2026 World Cup Defense

By July 25, 2024 0

Shubman Gill, India’s vice-captain in ODIs and T20Is, has set his sights on improving his performance in the shortest format as the team embarks on its journey towards defending their T20 World Cup title in 2026.

Gill, who was a reserve player during India’s triumphant T20 World Cup campaign in 2024, acknowledged that his performance in the lead-up to the tournament fell short of expectations. “My performance in T20Is before the World Cup this year wasn’t how I had expected it to be,” he said.

With senior batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli now retired from T20Is, Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal have emerged as India’s first-choice opening pair. Gill expressed his excitement about batting alongside Jaiswal, highlighting their complementary styles and strong understanding.

“We really enjoy batting with each other. Especially the kind of shots we play, we kind of complement each other,” Gill said. “Being a right-left combination, we have had good partnerships in whatever T20Is we have played before; two partnerships have been 150-plus [too]. So we have a great understanding and communication between us, and I have fun batting with him.”

Gill’s impressive performances in the T20Is against Zimbabwe after the World Cup, where he top-scored with 170 runs at a strike rate of 125.92, earned him the vice-captaincy for the limited-overs series in Sri Lanka.

The series in Sri Lanka marks the first assignment for Gautam Gambhir as India’s coach. Gill praised Gambhir’s clear communication and intent, saying, “He knows what he wants from which player, and what he thinks will work for each player.”

India will play three T20Is against Sri Lanka in Pallekele on July 27, 28, and 30, followed by three ODIs in Colombo on August 2, 4, and 7.

Categories: Cricket
Read more
India Eyes Three Badminton Medals at Paris Olympics, Sindhu Targets Hat-Trick

India Eyes Three Badminton Medals at Paris Olympics, Sindhu Targets Hat-Trick

By July 25, 2024 0

PV Sindhu’s mentor, Prakash Padukone, believes India has a strong chance of winning three badminton medals at the Paris Olympics, including a historic hat-trick for Sindhu. India’s seven-member badminton squad includes Sindhu, the high-flying men’s doubles pair of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty, and other promising players.

Padukone is confident in Sindhu’s ability to secure her third consecutive Olympic medal. “She has worked incredibly hard for that,” he said. “Her preparations have gone well, and she is playing well in practice sessions.”

Padukone has been focusing on improving Sindhu’s tactics and strategy on the court. “I am focusing on tactics and strategy on the court, on what strokes to use when, and a little to do with the mind,” he explained. “We’ve worked on her mental strength and strategy, ensuring she makes better use of the right strokes.”

Despite Sindhu’s lack of titles this year, Padukone believes her ability to perform under pressure will be an asset at the Olympics. “Expectations are lower, and even reaching the quarterfinals will be seen positively,” he said. “But I am looking beyond that. If she is able to reproduce the form, like what she’s doing in practice, I think she’ll do better than in past tournaments.”

Padukone also identified Rankireddy and Shetty in men’s doubles, Lakshya Sen and HS Prannoy in men’s singles as potential medal contenders. “We have a chance in all three events: men’s singles, women’s singles, and men’s doubles,” he said. “The men’s doubles pair, Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty have been very consistent and have beaten top players.”

Badminton matches at the Paris Olympics will begin on Saturday, July 27. India’s strong squad and Padukone’s guidance give them a realistic chance of achieving their medal goals.

Categories: Badminton
Read more
TNPL Playoff Race Heats Up: Kovai Kings, Super Gillies Secure Berths

TNPL Playoff Race Heats Up: Kovai Kings, Super Gillies Secure Berths

By July 25, 2024 0

As the Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL) approaches its climax, the playoff picture is becoming clearer. Defending champion Lyca Kovai Kings and three-time winner Chepauk Super Gillies have already secured their spots, while SKM Salem Spartans has been eliminated.

The remaining two playoff berths are up for grabs, with Trichy Grand Cholas and iDream Tiruppur Tamizhans facing off in a virtual knockout clash on Saturday. The winner will join Kovai Kings and Super Gillies in the semifinals.

Dindigul Dragons, currently in fifth place, has a strong chance to qualify as it has two matches remaining and needs to win at least one. Nellai Royal Kings, in sixth place, must win its last match against Dindigul to keep its playoff hopes alive.

Siechem Madurai Panthers, despite having only one win from five matches, still has an outside chance to qualify. It must win its last two matches by big margins to boost its net run rate and hope for favorable results from other teams.

Last season, the NPR College Ground in Dindigul witnessed distinctive bounce and swing for pacers. The pitches retained moisture and had grass patches, resulting in low-scoring affairs. If the weather and pitch conditions remain similar this year, the playoff-aspiring teams will heavily rely on their bowlers.

Categories: Cricket
Read more
Indian Table Tennis Team Aims to Upset Top Teams at Paris Olympics

Indian Table Tennis Team Aims to Upset Top Teams at Paris Olympics

By July 25, 2024 0

Indian table tennis star Harmeet Desai believes that the Indian team has the potential to upset any team at the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris. Desai, who played a crucial role in India’s gold medal victories in the team competition at the 2018 and 2022 Commonwealth Games, expressed confidence in the team’s preparations and their ability to perform at their best in the French capital.

The Indian TT contingent made history earlier this year when both the men’s and women’s teams qualified for the Olympics for the first time. The preparatory camps, held in Bengaluru and Saarbrucken, Germany, focused on developing the perfect combinations for the team events at the Paris Olympics, scheduled from July 26 to August 11.

“On a given day, I think we really have a very good chance of beating any team. We have won against top teams in the world in the past and it is possible this time also if we give our best. In the Olympics, if all three of us can put on the best show then anything is possible,” said Desai in an interview with Ultimate Table Tennis.

Desai is part of the Indian men’s team along with Achanta Sharath Kamal, Manav Thakkar, and Sathiyan Gnanasekaran. He will also be competing in the individual events. Desai’s confidence stems from the fact that the Indian men’s team had defeated the mighty Japan in the quarterfinals to clinch the bronze medal at the 2018 Asian Games.

Speaking about the rise of Indian table tennis on the world stage, Desai credited the central government’s various schemes and the launch of Ultimate Table Tennis in 2017 for the development of the sport. “UTT has helped us get more experience and exposure to play with international players and get guidance from foreign coaches. That was not the case before 2017. So, this kind of experience has helped the players get more self-belief and perform well in the international arena,” he said.

The Indian men’s team will face China in the opening round while the women’s team will open their campaign against Romania. The individual events will be played from July 27 to August 4, whereas the team events are scheduled from August 5 to 10.

After the Paris Olympics, India’s representatives at the Games and upcoming talent from the country will rub shoulders against each other and some international stars in the Ultimate Table Tennis 2024, scheduled to take place in Chennai from August 22 to September 7.

Categories: Others
Read more
Shubman Gill Praises Gautam Gambhir's Clear Approach, Sets Sights on Versatility

Shubman Gill Praises Gautam Gambhir’s Clear Approach, Sets Sights on Versatility

By July 25, 2024 0

Shubman Gill, the rising star of Indian cricket, has expressed his admiration for the newly appointed head coach, Gautam Gambhir, and his clear and concise approach to the game. Gill, who has been named the vice-captain for both the T20I and ODI series against Sri Lanka, believes that Gambhir’s guidance will be invaluable as the team prepares for the upcoming challenges.

Gill has also set his sights on becoming a versatile batsman, capable of performing consistently across all formats and in various playing conditions. His ultimate aim is to contribute to the team’s success, but he also recognizes the importance of solidifying his position as a reliable player in any situation.

Despite being part of the Indian squad during the T20 World Cup as a travelling reserve, Gill was unable to secure a spot in the final 15-man roster. The young right-hander has identified this as an area that requires improvement and is determined to work on his skills to ensure he becomes an indispensable member of the team in the future.

However, the 24-year-old is now focused on the upcoming five-match Test tour to Australia later this year, as well as the subsequent Champions Trophy. He believes that these matches will provide him with the opportunity to showcase his skills and cement his place in the team.

Gill also mentioned that Gambhir and Suryakumar Yadav, the current T20I captain, have quite similar thinking processes regarding their vision for the team. He expressed confidence that their partnership will be successful and that he will have a good understanding with his new opening partner, Yashasvi Jaiswal.

Gill also praised Abhishek Nayar, the newly-appointed assistant coach of India, with whom he had previously worked at the Kolkata Knight Riders. He highlighted Nayar’s dedication and commitment to helping players improve their skills.

Categories: Cricket
Read more
PV Sindhu Underdog for Paris Olympics, Satwik-Chirag Title Contenders

PV Sindhu Underdog for Paris Olympics, Satwik-Chirag Title Contenders

By July 25, 2024 0

PV Sindhu, India’s two-time Olympic medalist, is considered an “underdog” for the upcoming Paris Olympics, according to former Indian shuttler Parupalli Kashyap. However, Kashyap emphasizes that Sindhu’s reputation and big-match experience will make opponents wary of her.

Despite not being in top form since recovering from a knee injury, Sindhu’s Olympic pedigree and past achievements give her an edge. Kashyap believes that opponents will be cautious when facing her, even if her recent form suggests otherwise.

Since the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, Sindhu has faced challenges with injuries and inconsistent performances. However, Kashyap highlights her attacking style and fitness level as strengths that make her a formidable opponent in major events.

In the men’s singles category, Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty are considered title contenders for India. Kashyap believes their success in the Asian Games, Asian Championships, and World Championships makes them one of the favorites for the gold medal.

Their main competitors are expected to be the Chinese and Korean pairs. Kashyap notes that the Chinese pair has recently defeated Satwik-Chirag, while the Koreans have also posed a challenge.

HS Prannoy and Lakshya Sen are seen as “dark horses” in the men’s singles draw. Kashyap praises Lakshya’s performance in the All-England final and his qualification for the Olympics despite a tough period. He also highlights Prannoy’s multiple Super Series wins and medal-winning performances in the World Championships and Asian Games.

Both Prannoy and Lakshya have proven their ability to perform under pressure, especially in big matches. Kashyap believes they have the potential to upset higher-ranked opponents and progress in the tournament.

Categories: Badminton
Read more
South Africa's Test Team Embarks on Crucial WTC Campaign in Caribbean

South Africa’s Test Team Embarks on Crucial WTC Campaign in Caribbean

By July 25, 2024 0

South Africa’s Test team embarks on a crucial period in their World Test Championship (WTC) campaign, traveling to the Caribbean for a series of four two-match series. Despite a disappointing start to their WTC journey, with only four Tests played and a single victory, the Proteas aim to turn their fortunes around.

Captain Temba Bavuma, returning from injury, acknowledges the challenges facing the team, including a lack of consistent game time and player management issues. However, he remains optimistic, emphasizing the need to establish a clear philosophy and blueprint for success.

The team’s bowling attack has been depleted by the absence of Anrich Nortje, Marco Jansen, and Gerald Coetzee, leaving Lungi Ngidi, Nandre Burger, and Dane Paterson with the responsibility of leading the charge. The batting lineup also features several inexperienced players, including Tony de Zorzi, Tristan Stubbs, and David Bedingham.

Bavuma, who will bat at No. 4, recognizes the importance of anchoring the lineup and providing impetus. He believes the upcoming series provides an opportunity for younger players to establish themselves on the international stage.

The Proteas will face a West Indies Invitational XI in a four-day warm-up match before the first Test begins on August 7. The series is crucial for South Africa’s WTC aspirations, as they aim to secure victories and improve their position on the points table.

Categories: Cricket
Read more
Historic Cricket Club Bans Sixes to Curb Property Damage

Historic Cricket Club Bans Sixes to Curb Property Damage

By July 25, 2024 0

Southwick and Shoreham Cricket Club Bans Sixes to Curb Property Damage

The Southwick and Shoreham Cricket Club, a historic English cricket club established in 1790, has implemented a controversial rule prohibiting batters from hitting sixes. This unusual regulation stems from complaints from nearby residents about property damage caused by stray cricket balls.

The club’s decision was prompted by concerns from neighbors that cricket balls were hitting and damaging their windows, vehicles, and sheds. To address these concerns, the club has introduced a unique solution: any six hit will be declared null, and the subsequent ball will result in the batsman being out.

The rationale behind this rule is that the club’s ground is relatively small and cannot accommodate the powerful shots of modern cricketers. Mary Gill, an 80-year-old resident, expressed her support for the ban, stating that the club’s young players were “hitting the ball as far as they can” and causing disturbance.

However, the club’s decision has not been met with universal approval. Some players have criticized the rule as “ridiculous” and argued that hitting sixes is an integral part of the sport. One player questioned, “How can you ban it? It’s ridiculous. To take that away removes the joy of it.”

Despite the controversy, the club maintains that the rule is necessary to protect the property of its neighbors. The club’s chairman, John Smith, stated that the club had “tried everything” to mitigate the problem, including installing nets and reducing the number of matches played.

The Southwick and Shoreham Cricket Club’s decision highlights the challenges faced by cricket clubs in urban areas. As cricket becomes increasingly popular and powerful, clubs must find ways to balance the needs of players with the concerns of residents.

Categories: Cricket
Read more
Shoaib Malik Invites India to Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan

Shoaib Malik Invites India to Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan

By July 25, 2024 0

Pakistan’s seasoned all-rounder Shoaib Malik has extended an invitation to the Indian cricket team to participate in the Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled to be held in Pakistan. Malik’s invitation underscores the importance of separating politics from sports, emphasizing that bilateral issues between India and Pakistan should be addressed independently of their cricketing engagements.

“Whatever reservations there are between the countries, that’s a separate issue and should be solved separately. Politics shouldn’t come into sports. The Pakistan team went to India last year, and now it’s a good opportunity for the Indian team too. I think there are many players in the Indian team who haven’t played in Pakistan, so it would be great for them. Hum bahut acche log hai (we are good people). We’re very hospitable people, so I’m sure the Indian team should definitely come,” Malik told Cricket Pakistan.

Despite Malik’s welcoming stance, reports indicate reluctance from the Indian cricket team regarding their travel to Pakistan for the tournament, primarily due to ongoing political tensions between the two nations. It has also been suggested that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) might seek to have their matches relocated to alternative venues such as Sri Lanka or Dubai.

This development comes amidst a longstanding hiatus in bilateral cricket series between India and Pakistan, with the last series on Pakistani soil taking place during the 2008 Asia Cup. Since then, encounters between the two teams have been confined to ICC tournaments and Asia Cups, with their most recent bilateral series occurring in India from December 2012 to January 2013.

The Champions Trophy 2025 promises to be a significant event, with Pakistan aiming to replicate their success from the 2017 edition of the tournament. India, on the other hand, will be looking to add to their victories from 2013 and the shared triumph in 2002.

Categories: Cricket
Read more
IPL Mega Auction Modus Operandi to be Discussed at Franchise-BCCI Meeting

IPL Mega Auction Modus Operandi to be Discussed at Franchise-BCCI Meeting

By July 25, 2024 0

The Indian Premier League (IPL) is gearing up for its upcoming mega auction, and the league’s franchise owners and Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) officials are set to meet on July 31 in Mumbai to discuss the modalities.

The meeting will focus on crucial decisions regarding player retentions and the Right to Match (RTM) card. Franchise executives have been informally discussing the best possible scenarios for player retentions, with varying demands ranging from a solitary retention to a maximum of eight.

The RTM card, which allows teams to match the highest bid for a released player, is also a topic of debate. A majority of franchises are in favor of reintroducing the RTM option, which was last used in 2018.

Some franchises are also proposing extending the mega-auction cycle from the current three years to five years. This move is aimed at providing security to players, allowing franchises to build and market their squads effectively, and serving the interests of the BCCI.

Additionally, some franchises are suggesting incremental contracts for cricketers, especially Indians, during a cycle. Currently, retained players cannot be officially paid for the next season, leading to some players taking the risk of being released and entering the auction pool for a purse correction. The franchises believe that a transparent process for renegotiating with players would benefit both parties.

The IPL’s mega auction is a significant event that shapes the composition of teams and the dynamics of the league. The decisions made at the upcoming meeting will have a major impact on the future of the IPL and the careers of many cricketers.

Categories: Cricket
Read more
Main Menu
Home
Shop
Wishlist0
Back to Top

Search For Products

Product has been added to your cart