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Virat Kohli's Childhood Coach Defends Batter Amidst T20 Scrutiny

Virat Kohli’s Childhood Coach Defends Batter Amidst T20 Scrutiny

By May 10, 2024 0

Virat Kohli’s childhood coach, Rajkumar Sharma, has come to the defense of the star batter amidst ongoing scrutiny surrounding his performance and strike rate in T20 cricket. Sharma praised Kohli’s resilience and match-winning prowess, highlighting his contributions to Indian cricket.

Despite criticism from former cricketers and pundits questioning Kohli’s suitability for the upcoming T20 World Cup, the batter has responded with stellar performances in the IPL 2024 season. With 634 runs in 12 games, including one century and five fifties, Kohli has silenced his critics with an average of 70.44 and a strike rate of 153.51.

In a post-match interaction after his match-winning 92 against Punjab Kings, Kohli emphasized the importance of quality over quantity. He explained that his understanding of the game allows him to practice less and focus on replicating his past successes.

Kohli also showcased his commitment to expanding his skillset, demonstrating his ability to adapt to different situations. He highlighted his use of the slog sweep against spinners, a shot he hadn’t practiced but had executed successfully in the past.

Sharma’s unwavering support for Kohli underscores the batter’s enduring legacy in Indian cricket. Despite facing criticism, Kohli has consistently delivered match-winning performances, proving his value to the team. His ability to adapt and evolve his game is a testament to his dedication and commitment to excellence.

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KKR Eyes Playoff Berth as MI Looks to Salvage Pride

KKR Eyes Playoff Berth as MI Looks to Salvage Pride

By May 10, 2024 0

In a highly anticipated clash, two-time IPL champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) will face off against the struggling Mumbai Indians (MI) in their final home match of the season on Saturday. KKR, under the guidance of former skipper Gautam Gambhir as team mentor, has found a winning formula this season, sitting atop the standings with eight wins from 11 matches.

KKR’s success has been largely attributed to the explosive opening partnership of Sunil Narine and Phil Salt. Narine, the Trinidadian all-rounder, has been a revelation with the bat, scoring 461 runs at a strike rate of 183.66, including a century and three fifties. Salt, the English batter, has also contributed significantly with 429 runs at a strike rate of 183.33.

The duo’s consistent performances have allowed KKR to post six 200-plus totals from eight matches batting first. Narine’s 32 sixes are second only to Abhishek Sharma (35) in the tournament.

In contrast, MI, under Hardik Pandya’s leadership, has become the first team to be eliminated from the playoffs race. Despite a morale-boosting win over Sunrisers Hyderabad, MI will be looking to salvage some pride in their remaining matches.

Suryakumar Yadav has been in scintillating form for MI, scoring 56 and 102 not out in his last two innings. His performances augur well for Team India ahead of the T20 World Cup next month. However, Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya have struggled for runs, with Pandya failing to cross 10 in his last six innings.

Pandya’s poor form is a concern for India, as he is a key all-rounder in their T20 World Cup squad.

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BCCI Secretary Reveals Agarkar's Sole Decision to Exclude Kishan, Iyer from Contracts

BCCI Secretary Reveals Agarkar’s Sole Decision to Exclude Kishan, Iyer from Contracts

By May 10, 2024 0

The exclusion of Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer from the list of centrally-contracted players was a decision made solely by chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar, according to BCCI secretary Jay Shah. This decision has sparked controversy, with many questioning the rationale behind it.

Shah emphasized that “nobody is indispensable” and that the decision was made in accordance with the BCCI’s policy of prioritizing domestic cricket. Kishan and Iyer were left out after failing to show up for domestic engagements despite a directive from the BCCI.

Kishan went on a long break after the end of the ODI World Cup last year and remained unavailable until the IPL. Iyer eventually did feature in a few matches for Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy, including the semifinal and the final. However, he still found himself at the receiving end after it emerged that he had attended a Kolkata Knight Riders’ camp in Mumbai when his domestic side was busy playing a Ranji Trophy fixture.

Shah reiterated the Board’s position that Indian players will have to prioritize domestic cricket. He stated that he had spoken with the players after their exclusion and that they had expressed their willingness to play in domestic tournaments if they were considered for white-ball selection.

Shah also addressed the issue of high scores in this year’s IPL, saying that it ultimately comes down to who is playing well and who can sustain performance. He emphasized that players need to prove themselves and give back-to-back performances in Team India.

Shah also revealed that he had a conversation with Kishan after Mumbai Indians’ match against Gujarat Titans. He said that he did not advise him anything but rather had a friendly talk with him, encouraging him to do well.

The decision to exclude Kishan and Iyer has been met with mixed reactions. Some have criticized the BCCI for being too harsh, while others have supported the move, arguing that it sends a strong message to players about the importance of domestic cricket.

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Abhishek Sharma's Booking Blunder Deprives Parents of Witnessing His IPL Brilliance

Abhishek Sharma’s Booking Blunder Deprives Parents of Witnessing His IPL Brilliance

By May 10, 2024 0

Sunrisers Hyderabad’s (SRH) explosive opener Abhishek Sharma once again showcased his exceptional batting prowess in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) on May 8. However, his parents were left disappointed after missing the opportunity to witness their son’s brilliance due to an unfortunate error.

In SRH’s emphatic 10-wicket victory over Lucknow Super Giants, Sharma played a pivotal role, smashing an unbeaten 75 off just 28 deliveries. His blistering knock, coupled with Travis Head’s equally impressive 89 not out off 30 balls, propelled Hyderabad to their target of 166 in a mere 9.4 overs.

Post-match, Sharma was seen engaged in a phone conversation, prompting the anchor to inquire about the identity of the caller. To everyone’s surprise, Sharma revealed, “I was talking to my mom and dad. They were scheduled to come for this match, but unfortunately, I booked them a flight for home from another location. I had to book for Hyderabad, but I booked for Amritsar.”

Sharma’s parents had planned to attend the match at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad, but his booking error prevented them from doing so. The incident has become a source of amusement among fans and highlights the importance of double-checking travel arrangements.

Despite the setback, Sharma’s performance has been a major positive for SRH. The left-handed batsman has emerged as a key player for the Hyderabad franchise, consistently delivering match-winning contributions. His ability to score runs at a rapid pace and provide stability at the top of the order has been crucial to SRH’s success this season.

With seven wins from 12 matches, SRH currently occupies the third position in the points table. They will be aiming to maintain their momentum and secure a playoff berth in the remaining matches of the tournament.

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IPL's Impact Player Rule Under Review After T20 World Cup

IPL’s Impact Player Rule Under Review After T20 World Cup

By May 10, 2024 0

The Indian Premier League’s (IPL) “Impact Player” rule, introduced in 2023, has sparked debate. However, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah maintains that the board has received no feedback on the rule and will review it after the T20 World Cup.

Shah emphasized the rule’s benefits, stating that it provides opportunities for two additional Indian players. He highlighted the increased competitiveness it brings to the game. However, he acknowledged that if players express concerns, the board will address them.

“After the IPL and the World Cup, we will have a meeting and decide,” Shah said. “It’s not a permanent rule, nor am I saying we will move past it.”

Shah also clarified that the revival of the Champions League T20 tournament has not been discussed with the ICC, despite claims by Cricket Victoria CEO Nick Cummins.

Regarding speculation about his potential candidacy for ICC chair, Shah remained evasive. “Let me be here in BCCI,” he said. “Let there be speculation. But let me be here (in the BCCI). Am I not doing a good job?”

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PBKS' IPL Hopes Dashed by Costly Dropped Catches

PBKS’ IPL Hopes Dashed by Costly Dropped Catches

By May 10, 2024 0

Punjab Kings’ (PBKS) IPL 2024 campaign came to an abrupt end after a disappointing 60-run defeat against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Assistant coach Brad Haddin attributed the loss to a series of costly dropped catches in the field.

PBKS endured a nightmare start, dropping three catches in the first five overs. Virat Kohli, who went on to score 92 runs, was dropped twice on 0 and 10, while Rajat Patidar, who scored 55, was also dropped on 0. These missed opportunities proved pivotal as both batsmen played key roles in RCB’s massive total of 241/7.

Chasing a daunting target, PBKS showed some fight with Rilee Rossouw’s 27-ball 61 and Shashank Singh’s 37 runs in 19 balls. However, a flurry of wickets in the middle overs derailed their chase, and they were eventually bowled out for 181.

“100 percent we lost the match because of dropped catches,” Haddin admitted at the post-match presentation. “We dropped two guys on a duck, and both of them scored big runs. That was where the game was lost.”

Despite the disappointing result, Haddin emphasized the positives from the season and urged the team to finish on a high note. “It is disappointing, but it should not be tough work to motivate the boys,” he said. “This is one of the premier competitions in the world. It’s a great opportunity to show your skills.”

Haddin also revealed that Kagiso Rabada’s absence from the playing XI was due to illness. Stand-in skipper Sam Curran echoed Haddin’s sentiments, saying the team would focus on the positives and continue to work hard.

“A lot of positive signs throughout the season, but not enough to get over the line, unfortunately,” Curran said. “We have to keep our heads up, keep learning, and keep becoming better.”

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CAF Confederation Cup Final Overshadowed by Off-Field Drama

CAF Confederation Cup Final Overshadowed by Off-Field Drama

By May 10, 2024 0

The CAF Confederation Cup final is set to kick off on Sunday with a highly anticipated clash between Moroccan club Renaissance Berkane and Egyptian giants Zamalek. However, the buildup to the match has been marred by off-field drama that threatens to overshadow the sporting spectacle.

At the heart of the controversy lies a dispute over the inclusion of a map of Western Sahara on Berkane’s shirts. Algerian side USMA, who forfeited both legs of their semi-final against Berkane due to the map issue, have appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) to overturn the decisions. They also seek a postponement of the first leg of the final.

The map controversy erupted when Algerian customs officials seized Berkane’s kit before the first leg of the semi-final on April 21. The map included Western Sahara, a territory controlled by Morocco but claimed by the Polisario Front, which seeks independence. Algeria supports the Polisario Front and opposes Moroccan rule.

CAF ordered the Algerian authorities to return the confiscated kit, but they failed to do so. As a result, Berkane refused to play and were awarded a 3-0 walkover. USMA argued that the shirts contained a political message that violated CAF and FIFA regulations.

Morocco countered that shirts with the map had been worn in several other countries during the tournament without objection. USMA traveled to Morocco for the return match but again refused to play, reportedly due to the presence of the map on Berkane’s shirts. This led to another 3-0 walkover for Berkane.

Meanwhile, Zamalek have expressed concerns over the choice of Tunisian VAR officials for the first leg, citing the Tunisian nationality of Berkane’s coach, Mouin Chaabani. The Cairo club believes this violates CAF’s principles of equality and impartiality.

Despite the off-field distractions, both Berkane and Zamalek will be eager to focus on the sporting aspect of the final. Berkane have a formidable home record in the competition, while Zamalek have impressed in their away matches.

The first leg of the final will be played at the Stade Municipal in Berkane on Sunday, May 15, with the return leg scheduled for May 19 in Cairo.

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Arsenal's Title Hopes Hinge on Fulham Favor, European Race Heats Up

Arsenal’s Title Hopes Hinge on Fulham Favor, European Race Heats Up

By May 10, 2024 0

Arsenal’s Premier League title hopes hang precariously as they approach the final stretch of the season. With just two matches remaining, the Gunners cling to a one-point lead over Manchester City, who have a crucial game in hand.

Arsenal’s fate could be determined this weekend when City visit Fulham. The London side has never beaten City in 21 previous encounters, casting doubt on Arsenal’s chances of a slip-up from their rivals.

Meanwhile, Arsenal face a daunting trip to Manchester United, who are desperate to secure European football next season. However, United’s recent form has been dismal, and Arsenal will be confident of securing a victory.

Another key battle this weekend is the race for European qualification. Newcastle and Chelsea are both in contention for a Europa League or UEFA Conference League spot. Newcastle, currently in sixth place, host Brighton and have won five of their last seven league games.

Chelsea, under the guidance of Mauricio Pochettino, have also found form in recent weeks. They travel to relegation-threatened Nottingham Forest, knowing that a win will keep their European hopes alive.

Forest, despite a four-point penalty for breaching financial rules, are on the brink of securing Premier League safety. They need only match Luton’s result against West Ham to avoid the drop.

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Olympiakos Makes History, Reaches Europa Conference League Final

Olympiakos Makes History, Reaches Europa Conference League Final

By May 10, 2024 0

Olympiakos FC, the Greek football powerhouse, has etched its name in history by reaching the final of the UEFA Europa Conference League. Their remarkable journey culminated in a resounding 2-0 victory over Aston Villa in the second leg of the semi-final, securing a 6-2 aggregate triumph.

The Karaiskakis Stadium in Piraeus erupted in a symphony of cheers as Ayoub El Kaabi, the tormentor-in-chief for Villa, struck twice to seal the deal. The Moroccan forward, who had already netted a hat-trick in the first leg, proved unstoppable once again.

Olympiakos’s triumph marks a watershed moment for Greek football. They become only the second Greek club to reach a major European final, following in the footsteps of Panathinaikos, who lost to Ajax in the 1971 European Cup final.

The significance of this achievement is amplified by the fact that Olympiakos will face Italian giants Fiorentina in the final on May 29 at the AEK Arena, a mere 10 miles from their own stadium. The symbolism of this local derby adds an extra layer of excitement to the occasion.

Jose Luis Mendilibar, who took charge of Olympiakos in February, has quickly become a legend at the club. The Spaniard, who was sacked by Sevilla in October, has masterminded a monumental achievement for Greek football.

Owned by Evangelos Marinakis, who also runs Premier League strugglers Nottingham Forest, Olympiakos had a dismal record in European competitions before this season, failing to progress beyond the group stage 14 times in 16 attempts.

If Olympiakos can lift the first European trophy in their 99-year history, it would be a feat to rival Greece’s shock Euro 2004 triumph. It would also be a fitting reward for their Under-19 team, who won the UEFA Youth League final against AC Milan in April.

Villa’s exit from the competition was a bitter blow to their hopes of reaching a first European final since 1982. Unai Emery’s side must now refocus on their bid to qualify for next season’s Champions League via a top-four finish in the Premier League.

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Beckham Urges Man United Players to Prove Motivation

Beckham Urges Man United Players to Prove Motivation

By May 10, 2024 0

David Beckham, a legendary Manchester United player, has expressed his disappointment with the team’s recent performances and urged the players to demonstrate their commitment to the club. Beckham, who was a key member of United’s treble-winning team in 1999, believes that the players must take responsibility for their poor results.

“You’d hope that the manager doesn’t have to do much,” Beckham said. “I think that’s the whole point of being a Manchester United player and playing in these big games – you should be motivated.”

United manager Erik ten Hag is facing immense pressure after the team’s embarrassing 4-0 loss to Crystal Palace on Monday. The defeat left United languishing in eighth place in the Premier League, and Ten Hag’s future at the club is in doubt.

Beckham believes that the players must step up and prove their worth, especially in the upcoming FA Cup final against Manchester City. “When you’re a professional footballer and you’re doing the job you love and you’re at the club you love, when you’re playing in any game, whether it’s a regular season game or whether it’s an FA Cup final against your rivals, that should be enough motivation,” he said.

“And, if it’s not, then you’re in the wrong team and you’re playing the wrong sport. We went into every game, whether it was a youth cup game, a friendly game, off-season or a European Cup final, with the same mentality and the same drive.”

Beckham, who won six Premier League titles and one Champions League with United, admitted that he has been disappointed by the club’s struggles since Sir Alex Ferguson retired in 2013. “Obviously it’s been a tough five, 10, 15 years at United and we all know that but it was never going to be easy when the boss left, (Roy) Keane left, Giggsy (Ryan Giggs) left, Gary (Neville) left,” he said.

“All of these important players and personalities and characters all left United, it was always going to be a difficult time. We want the lads to feel – from this documentary – the inspiration of being this successful.”

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