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Pant vs. Samson: Gambhir Faces Selection Dilemma for Sri Lanka T20Is

Pant vs. Samson: Gambhir Faces Selection Dilemma for Sri Lanka T20Is

By July 25, 2024 0

The upcoming three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka presents a challenging selection dilemma for Team India’s new head coach, Gautam Gambhir. The choice between wicketkeeper-batters Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson has become a crucial decision, as both players possess exceptional skills and a desire to prove their worth.

Pant, a seasoned campaigner with 74 T20I appearances, has established himself as a formidable force in the shortest format. His aggressive batting style and ability to clear the boundary with ease have made him a valuable asset to the Indian team. In the recent T20 World Cup, Pant finished as India’s third-highest run-scorer, amassing 171 runs at a strike rate of 126.67.

Samson, on the other hand, has played 28 T20Is, scoring 633 runs at a strike rate of 133.14. Despite making his debut in 2015, Samson has only played 27 of those matches since 2020. His inconsistent selection has hindered his ability to establish himself as a regular member of the Indian team.

Statistically, there is little to separate the two players. Pant holds a slight edge in terms of average (22.70 vs. 21.14) and strike rate (126.67 vs. 133.14). However, Samson has a higher number of fifties (3 vs. 2) and has displayed an impressive ability to hit boundaries against the fastest bowlers.

The decision between Pant and Samson will ultimately depend on the team management’s assessment of their current form and suitability for the role. Pant’s experience and recent performances may give him the edge, but Samson’s potential and ability to play match-winning innings cannot be ignored.

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Coetzee Out, Pretorius In for South Africa's West Indies Tests

Coetzee Out, Pretorius In for South Africa’s West Indies Tests

By July 25, 2024 0

South Africa’s Test squad for the upcoming series against West Indies has undergone a change, with fast bowler Gerald Coetzee ruled out due to a side strain. Coetzee sustained the injury while playing for Texas Super Kings in the Major League Cricket (MLC) T20 franchise league in the USA.

Following assessments by South Africa’s medical team, Coetzee was deemed unfit to participate in the Test series, which commences on August 7. In his place, uncapped Test player Migael Pretorius has been called up.

Pretorius, 29, has a wealth of experience in first-class cricket, having played 64 matches and claimed 188 wickets at an average of 27.50. He is currently the leading wicket-taker for Somerset in the ongoing English County Championship, with 23 wickets.

Pretorius has previously been named in South Africa squads but has yet to make his international debut. He was part of the T20I squad for the series against Pakistan in March 2021 but did not play. He was also called up for the Test series in Sri Lanka in December 2020 but withdrew due to a shoulder injury.

South Africa’s Test squad for the West Indies series now includes:

* Temba Bavuma (capt)
* David Bedingham
* Matthew Breetzke
* Nandre Burger
* Tony de Zorzi
* Keshav Maharaj
* Aiden Markram
* Wiaan Mulder
* Lungi Ngidi
* Dane Paterson
* Dane Piedt
* Kagiso Rabada
* Tristan Stubbs
* Ryan Rickelton
* Kyle Verreynne
* Migael Pretorius

The Test series will begin in Port-of-Spain, followed by the second Test in Providence. Three T20Is will conclude the tour from August 24 to 28.

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Suryakumar Yadav Named India's New T20I Captain

Suryakumar Yadav Named India’s New T20I Captain

By July 25, 2024 0

Suryakumar Yadav, the enigmatic T20 batter, has been appointed as the new captain of India’s T20I team, marking a significant shift in leadership following the retirement of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli from the format. This decision, made under the guidance of newly appointed head coach Gautam Gambhir, has sparked considerable discussion and analysis.

Initially, Hardik Pandya, who served as vice-captain during India’s T20 World Cup triumph, was considered the frontrunner for the captaincy. However, concerns over his fitness led the team management to opt for Suryakumar, widely regarded as the most consistent and impactful T20 batter in the lineup.

The idea of promoting Suryakumar to captaincy was first considered during outgoing head coach Rahul Dravid’s tenure, according to former India bowling coach Paras Mhambrey. The new management, led by Gambhir, decided to implement this vision when the opportunity presented itself.

“We felt that here’s a guy who’s gonna have a long future in the T20 format. He has mastered that skill. One of the best in this format. He and Klaasen are maybe one or two in T20Is now based on their current form. Just the pure impact he has on winning games for India is phenomenal,” Mhambrey told Hindustan Times.

Chief selector Ajit Agarkar emphasized the importance of inputs from within the dressing room in making this decision. Mhambrey also pointed to Suryakumar’s positive relationship with team members, particularly the younger players.

“He’s been with the team. I’ve seen him interact with the young guys. On one hand, we had Rohit and Virat, guys who are stalwarts, and then we have Surya, who is experienced but probably even closer to the youngsters. He is very friendly with everyone. He has that respect from the younger lot. The youngsters need to interact with him, he’s good at it. So, he has a good bond with everyone in the team,” Mhambrey said.

At 33, Suryakumar Yadav still has several years ahead in his cricketing career, potentially leading India in the next two T20 World Cups.

“He has a lot of cricket left in him. He has a good four-five years of cricket left in him. With all this, I think he is a great choice,” Mhambrey added.

This decision marks a pivotal moment in India’s T20 cricket as it transitions to new leadership under a new coach and a captain who has shown remarkable talent and rapport within the team.

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Suryakumar Yadav's Captaincy Debut: A New Chapter for Indian T20 Cricket

Suryakumar Yadav’s Captaincy Debut: A New Chapter for Indian T20 Cricket

By July 25, 2024 0

With India embarking on a new era in T20 cricket, the appointment of Suryakumar Yadav as captain for the upcoming series against Sri Lanka has generated immense anticipation. Former India fielding coach R Sridhar, who witnessed Suryakumar’s T20I debut in 2021, believes the batsman possesses the qualities to lead by example.

Sridhar highlights Suryakumar’s maturity and composure, noting that he has evolved from the aggressive and upbeat player he was in his early days. He believes that Suryakumar’s ability to remain calm under pressure and think strategically will serve him well as captain.

Sridhar emphasizes that captaincy extends beyond on-field leadership, requiring the ability to maintain a positive team environment off the field. He commends Suryakumar’s communication skills and his focus on ensuring the well-being of all squad members.

Sridhar also acknowledges Suryakumar’s previous experience as captain of Mumbai in domestic cricket. While his initial stint was marked by challenges, he has since matured and led Mumbai to success in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.

Sridhar believes Suryakumar has the potential to lead India effectively, but stresses the importance of selecting the right playing eleven and communicating clearly. He notes that Suryakumar’s experience playing under Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, as well as his vice-captaincy under Gautam Gambhir at Kolkata Knight Riders, will be invaluable.

The India vs. Sri Lanka series marks a new chapter in Indian cricket, with both teams featuring new captains and coaches. Sridhar believes this series will lay the foundation for the team’s future in the T20 format, providing a platform for young players to establish themselves and develop a distinct playing style.

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Unicorn Balloon Interrupts England-West Indies Test, Bringing Laughter to Trent Bridge

Unicorn Balloon Interrupts England-West Indies Test, Bringing Laughter to Trent Bridge

By July 25, 2024 0

Amidst the intense battle between England and West Indies in the second Test at Trent Bridge, an unexpected and hilarious incident occurred that brought a moment of levity to the proceedings. As England resumed their second innings on the fourth day, a peculiar sight appeared on the outfield: a unicorn-shaped balloon.

The crowd erupted in laughter as the balloon bobbed and weaved across the field, momentarily halting the match. A ground staff member swiftly rushed onto the pitch to remove the inflatable intruder, while the English crowd cheered and chanted “ole” in unison.

The incident provided a brief respite from the serious competition, but it also highlighted the growing confidence and camaraderie within the England team. Ollie Pope, Harry Brook, and Joe Root all notched up centuries for the hosts, leading England to a resounding 241-run victory.

Pope, who has emerged as a key figure in England’s batting lineup, believes that the team has the potential to achieve even greater heights. He pointed to their record-breaking performance against Pakistan in Rawalpindi, where they scored 506-4 on the first day.

“I think when Baz (England coach Brendon McCullum) and Stokesy took over, we were a batting unit with, not a lack of experience, but a lack of confidence at the time,” said Pope. “Now, we have the capacity to surpass that feat and adapt to more bowler-friendly conditions.”

England’s recent success has been built on an aggressive approach known as “Bazball,” which emphasizes attacking batting and positive intent. The team has undergone a significant revamp, with several experienced players making way for fresh talent.

The newcomers have made an immediate impact, with fast bowler Gus Atkinson taking 12 wickets at Lord’s, off-spinner Shoaib Bashir grabbing a five-wicket haul at Trent Bridge, and Jamie Smith shining as wicketkeeper-batsman.

As England prepare for the final Test of the series against West Indies at Edgbaston, they will be looking to continue their winning ways and further cement their position as one of the most exciting and dynamic teams in world cricket.

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Sundeep Verma to Coach Gaganjeet Bhullar at Paris 2024 Olympics

Sundeep Verma to Coach Gaganjeet Bhullar at Paris 2024 Olympics

By July 25, 2024 0

Renowned clubmaker and golf coach Sundeep Verma is set to make his third Olympic Games appearance, this time as the coach of leading Indian professional Gaganjeet Bhullar at the Paris 2024 Games. Bhullar, an 11-time Asian Tour champion, will be making his Olympic debut as part of a four-member Indian golf team that also includes Shubhankar Sharma, Aditi Ashok, and Diksha Dagar.

Verma, with over 25 years of experience in the golf industry, has worked with some of India’s top golfers, including Jeev Milkha Singh, Anirban Lahiri, S.S.P. Chawrasia, Jyoti Randhawa, Himmat Singh Rai, Shiv Kapur, and Shubhankar Sharma. He accompanied Chawrasia to the Rio 2016 Olympics and Diksha to the Tokyo 2020 Games, playing a crucial role in their performances.

Bhullar, who is eager to make a mark in his maiden Olympic appearance, expressed his confidence in Verma’s guidance. “It was quite natural to pick Sundeep as my coach. He has worked with me during my early professional days and has always been a valuable source of advice. His experience at the Olympic venue and his understanding of the game will be invaluable to me. I am confident that with him on my side, I will deliver a remarkable performance in Paris,” said Bhullar.

Verma, who was also the coach of the Indian amateur golf team at the Eisenhower Trophy in 2022, is excited to share his knowledge and experience with Bhullar. “I am happy to be accompanying Bhullar to Paris. I would love to pass on the learnings from Rio and Tokyo to him. He is an accomplished golfer with the right temperament and attacking mindset to perform well in big events like the Olympic Games. We will give it our best shot to return with a medal from Paris,” said Verma.

Bhullar’s participation in the Paris Olympics has been supported by the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), which has covered his expenses for airfare, boarding and lodging, registration fees, and training at the Olympic venue. He will depart for Paris along with Verma on July 28.

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Gambhir's Appointment Raises Questions About Rohit, Kohli's Future

Gambhir’s Appointment Raises Questions About Rohit, Kohli’s Future

By July 25, 2024 0

Gautam Gambhir’s appointment as India’s head coach has sparked speculation about the future of veteran batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Both players retired from T20Is after the recent World Cup, leaving their availability for future tournaments uncertain.

BCCI Secretary Jay Shah has confirmed that Rohit will lead India in the ICC Champions Trophy and World Test Championship in 2025. However, it remains unclear whether he and Kohli will be available for the 2027 ODI World Cup.

Gambhir has stated that both players are in his plans, emphasizing their experience and ability. However, former India captain Krishnamachari Srikkanth has pointed out Gambhir’s previous comments suggesting that senior players would be dropped if they underperformed in the T20 World Cup.

Srikkanth believes that Kohli’s fitness levels could allow him to play in the 2027 World Cup, but he doubts Rohit’s ability to perform at a high level at the age of 40. The tournament will be held in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia, which could pose physical challenges for older players.

The BCCI has not yet made a decision on the future of Rohit and Kohli. The selectors will likely assess their performances in the upcoming series and make a determination based on their form and fitness.

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Texas Super Kings Crush MI New York in MLC Eliminator

Texas Super Kings Crush MI New York in MLC Eliminator

By July 25, 2024 0

In a thrilling Major League Cricket Eliminator match, the Texas Super Kings, led by captain Faf du Plessis, emerged victorious over defending champions MI New York by a comfortable nine-wicket margin.

Chasing a modest target of 164, the Super Kings displayed a dominant performance, reaching the winning total in just 18.3 overs. Du Plessis, the Player of the Match, anchored the chase with a superb 72 off 47 deliveries, including three towering sixes and six boundaries. His opening partnership with Devon Conway, who contributed an unbeaten 51 off 43 balls, laid the foundation for the Super Kings’ success.

After du Plessis’ dismissal, Conway and Aaron Hardie ensured a seamless finish. Hardie’s quickfire 40 not out from 22 balls, featuring two sixes and three fours, complemented Conway’s steady knock. The duo forged an unbeaten 66-run stand to seal the victory for their team.

Reflecting on the triumph, du Plessis emphasized the significance of a strong start and praised his teammates’ efforts. He highlighted the importance of maintaining a healthy run rate throughout the chase and acknowledged the contributions of Stoinis and Hardie in the bowling department.

MI New York, on the other hand, struggled to gain momentum after being sent in to bat. Despite a promising start, they lost key wickets in quick succession, including opener Dewald Brevis and Nicholas Pooran. Shayan Jahangir and Monank Patel provided some stability, but their partnership was broken by Dwayne Bravo.

Rashid Khan attempted to boost the team’s total, but received limited support from his teammates. MI New York eventually ended their innings at 163/8 in 20 overs, falling short of a competitive score.

Skipper Kieron Pollard acknowledged the team’s shortcomings and expressed a commitment to return stronger next season. He emphasized the need for improvement in fielding and overall performance.

With this victory, the Texas Super Kings advance to the next round of the competition, while MI New York’s title defense comes to an end.

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Sanju Samson's ODI Snub: Uthappa Questions Selection Process

Sanju Samson’s ODI Snub: Uthappa Questions Selection Process

By July 25, 2024 0

Sanju Samson’s international career has been a rollercoaster ride, marked by both brilliance and frustration. Despite his exceptional talent, the wicket-keeper batter has repeatedly faced snubs from the white-ball teams, leaving many scratching their heads.

Samson’s latest setback came when he was overlooked for India’s ODI series against Sri Lanka, despite scoring a century in his last one-day international match. Former India cricketer Robin Uthappa, known for his blunt assessments, expressed his disappointment over Samson’s omission.

“This is not the first time Sanju has gone through this,” Uthappa said. “I don’t think it will be the last time either. But his one-day numbers have been incredible.”

Uthappa attributed Samson’s struggles to the constant changes within the Indian leadership group. “Things have to settle down a bit,” he said. “We as fans and supporters need to give them space.”

However, Uthappa believes that Samson is not out of contention for the ODI team. “He will get his opportunity,” Uthappa said. “But when it comes, he needs to grab it with solid performances.”

Samson’s future in the ODI team may hinge on his performance in the upcoming T20I series against Sri Lanka. An exemplary show in the shortest format could force the selectors to give him a longer run in the 50-over format as well.

Samson’s case highlights the complexities of team selection in modern cricket. With a plethora of talented players vying for limited spots, even the most deserving individuals can find themselves on the sidelines. However, Samson’s talent and determination suggest that he will continue to fight for his place in the Indian team.

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Olympic BMX Champion Logan Martin's Equipment Stolen in Brussels

Olympic BMX Champion Logan Martin’s Equipment Stolen in Brussels

By July 25, 2024 0

Reigning Olympic BMX freestyle champion Logan Martin’s title defense has gotten off to a rocky start after thieves broke into the Australian team’s van in Brussels, stealing equipment and personal belongings.

Martin took to Instagram on Wednesday to share videos of the incident, showing the smashed passenger side window of the vehicle and police officers speaking to a member of the Australian delegation.

“Our van got broken into last night,” Martin said in the video. “Luckily my bikes weren’t in there, although my bike bags were in there with some things in it.”

Martin lost his wallet, backpack, and other items in the theft. “What a crazy start to the trip,” he wrote in the caption of the video. “It’s unfortunate when people feel the need to do things like this.”

In a later video, Martin and his teammates discovered some of their stolen bags beside a bench nearby. They attributed this to the “bag tags” that were attached to the bags.

Martin, who won gold in Tokyo ahead of Venezuela’s Daniel Dhers, is currently in Brussels with the Australian team for a training camp before leaving for Paris on Wednesday.

The incident has cast a shadow over Martin’s preparations for the upcoming BMX Freestyle World Championships in Abu Dhabi, which will serve as a qualifier for the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Martin is one of the favorites to win the gold medal in Paris, and he will be hoping to put the theft behind him and focus on his training.

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