Blog

Tristan Stubbs: Hockey Skills Powering Batting Success in IPL 2024

By Nilay May 8, 2024 0

Tristan Stubbs: Hockey Skills Fueling Batting Prowess in IPL 2024

Like the legendary South African fielder Jonty Rhodes, young Proteas batsman Tristan Stubbs attributes some of his batting prowess to his hockey background. Currently excelling for the Delhi Capitals in IPL 2024, Stubbs has showcased his big-hitting abilities, scoring 41 off 20 balls in a recent victory over the Rajasthan Royals.

In a post-match interview, the 23-year-old revealed how hockey skills have influenced his batting, particularly his sweeps. “I learned the basics from hockey and practiced them a lot,” Stubbs explained. “The way I turn my hands for spinners and seam is like I’m holding a hockey stick. Both sweeps, getting down low, definitely come from hockey.”

Stubbs’ hockey background has provided him with a solid foundation for his batting. The hand-eye coordination and quick reflexes required in hockey translate well to the cricket field. His ability to generate power and execute precise shots has been evident throughout IPL 2024.

With a strike rate of 188.16, Stubbs has amassed 318 runs in 11 innings for the Delhi Capitals, including two half-centuries. His tally includes an impressive 22 sixes, demonstrating his ability to clear the boundary with ease.

Stubbs’ contributions have been crucial for the Delhi Capitals, who are vying for a playoff spot. His aggressive batting has provided the team with much-needed momentum and has helped them stay in contention for a top-four finish.

As the IPL 2024 season progresses, Stubbs will look to continue his impressive form and help the Delhi Capitals achieve their playoff aspirations. His unique blend of hockey skills and cricketing talent makes him an exciting prospect for the future of South African cricket.

Categories: Cricket

RCB and PBKS Clash in Crucial IPL Survival Battle

By Nilay May 8, 2024 0

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) will face off in a crucial Indian Premier League (IPL) clash on Thursday in Dharamsala. Both teams are fighting for survival in the tournament, with RCB sitting in seventh place with eight points from 11 games and PBKS in eighth place with the same number of points.

RCB has shown signs of resurgence in recent games, winning their last three matches comprehensively. Virat Kohli has been consistent at the top of the order, while skipper Faf du Plessis has found his form with a belligerent knock in the last game. Will Jacks has also impressed with a match-winning century against Gujarat Titans, and Cameron Green has showcased his all-round skills with crucial contributions in runs and wickets.

PBKS, on the other hand, has been inconsistent throughout the season. They have showcased their potential with away wins over Kolkata Knight Riders and Chennai Super Kings but have struggled at home. They have won just one out of five games in Mullanpur, their main home ground.

The match will be a battle of contrasting styles. RCB has a strong batting lineup but a relatively weaker bowling attack, while PBKS has a more balanced team with a solid bowling unit led by Kagiso Rabada and Arshdeep Singh.

The outcome of the match could have a significant impact on the playoff race. RCB can still make the playoffs if they win all their remaining three fixtures, while PBKS needs to win at least two of their remaining three games to have a chance of qualifying.

Categories: Cricket

Sanju Samson Impresses Hayden with IPL Performance, Earns T20 World Cup Call-Up

By Nilay May 8, 2024 0

Former Australian opener Matthew Hayden has heaped praise on Sanju Samson’s impressive performance in the Indian Premier League (IPL), lauding the T20 World Cup-bound power-hitter for his exceptional handling of both spin and pace bowling.

Samson’s scintillating knock of 86 runs off just 46 balls against the Delhi Capitals on Tuesday showcased his remarkable batting prowess. Despite Rajasthan Royals’ eventual defeat by 20 runs, Samson’s innings propelled him to third place on the IPL’s top-scorers chart with 471 runs in 11 matches.

Hayden, a renowned cricket commentator, was particularly impressed by Samson’s ability to adapt to different bowling styles. “Sanju Samson was batting like a dream, scoring 86 off 46 balls. He’s proven his worth time and again…Throughout the tournament, he’s been a master blaster, handling both spin and pace with finesse,” Hayden remarked.

Samson’s timing and power were evident throughout his innings. “He times his innings well. He’s got the power. And the power is a big thing in T20 cricket. Yet, what stands out is his commitment to his team. He just needed a bit of luck, especially towards the end of the match,” Hayden added.

Samson’s performance has also caught the attention of former India cricketer Varun Aaron. “I think Sanju Samson has been batting really well. Bowlers are keen on dismissing him, evident from their reluctance to bowl bouncers despite being allowed two per over in this IPL,” Aaron observed.

Aaron noted that Samson’s dismissal in the match against Delhi Capitals came after he was bowled a bouncer for the first time. “Interestingly, the over he got out, Khaleel Ahmed bowled the first bouncer to him in the match. This seemed to disrupt his footwork, as the subsequent wide slow ball, which he typically dispatches for six over covers, resulted in his dismissal,” Aaron explained.

Samson’s impressive form has earned him a place in the Indian team for the upcoming T20 World Cup, where he will serve as the second wicketkeeper behind Rishabh Pant. His ability to handle both spin and pace bowling will be a valuable asset to the Indian team as they aim to lift the coveted trophy.

Categories: Cricket

Yuvraj Singh: Rohit Sharma Deserves to Lead India to World Cup Glory

By Nilay May 8, 2024 0

Yuvraj Singh and Rohit Sharma, two stalwarts of Indian cricket, share a deep bond that has stood the test of time. Their journey began in 2007 when they were part of India’s triumphant T20 World Cup squad. While Yuvraj was at the zenith of his career, Rohit was just starting out.

Rohit has always held Yuvraj in high regard. On the Kapil Sharma show, he recounted an amusing incident from his early days in the team. “I sat down in Yuvraj’s seat on the team bus, not knowing that players had preferred seats. Yuvi just made eye contact and gestured me to move. RP Singh explained that it was his seat,” Rohit recalled with a chuckle.

Yuvraj has witnessed Rohit’s remarkable transformation from a shy teenager to a world-class opener. “He had very poor English,” Yuvraj joked, “but he was a funny guy from the streets of Borivali. We always tease him, but he’s a great guy at heart.”

Their bond deepened during Yuvraj’s final season as an active cricketer, when he played under Rohit’s captaincy at Mumbai Indians. “He’s never changed as a person, despite his success,” Yuvraj said. “He’s fun-loving, a great leader, and one of my closest friends from cricket.”

Yuvraj’s admiration for Rohit extends beyond their personal relationship. He believes that Rohit deserves to lead India to a World Cup triumph. “I really want to see him with a World Cup trophy,” Yuvraj said. “He’s had a lot of success, but he hasn’t won a World Cup yet. He deserves it.”

Rohit’s leadership qualities have been evident in India’s recent performances. Under his captaincy, India reached the final of the 50-over World Cup and the WTC Final last year, and the semifinals of the 2022 T20 World Cup.

Yuvraj believes that Rohit’s presence will be crucial in India’s quest for the T20 World Cup title this year. “We need a good captain who takes decisions well under pressure,” Yuvraj said. “Rohit is the one to do that.”

With the World Cup just around the corner, Yuvraj’s words serve as a reminder of Rohit’s importance to the Indian team. His experience, leadership, and unwavering determination will be vital if India is to end its long wait for an ICC title.

Categories: Cricket

Sanju Samson Stakes Claim for India’s Wicketkeeper-Batsman Role at T20 World Cup

By Nilay May 8, 2024 0

Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson has emerged as a strong contender for India’s first-choice wicketkeeper-batsman at the upcoming Twenty20 World Cup, according to his IPL coach Kumar Sangakkara. Samson’s impressive performance in the ongoing IPL season has caught the attention of the Indian selectors, who included him in the 15-man squad for the June 1-29 tournament in the United States and the West Indies.

Samson’s inclusion in the squad is a testament to his consistent performances in the IPL. He is currently ranked third in the tournament’s run-scoring charts with 471 runs in 11 games, behind only Virat Kohli and Ruturaj Gaikwad. Samson’s impressive form has been a key factor in Rajasthan Royals’ success this season, as they currently sit second in the points table.

While Rishabh Pant is also a strong contender for the wicketkeeper-batsman role in the Indian team, Samson’s recent performances have put him in a strong position. In Rajasthan Royals’ match against Pant’s Delhi Capitals on Tuesday, Samson struck a blistering 86 off 46 balls, while Pant managed only 15 off 13 balls.

Sangakkara believes that Samson has made a strong case for himself to be included in the Indian team’s starting lineup for the World Cup. “It’s really up to Rahul Dravid and Rohit Sharma and how they see the combination. But he (Samson) has made his case, so hopefully he’ll have a good run in the World Cup,” Sangakkara said.

Samson’s excellent form this season is a result of his improved clarity about his batting approach, according to Sangakkara. “With Sanju, the biggest thing about this season for him is having a lot of clarity about the way he should bat,” Sangakkara said. “There are certain stages of the game that he seems to lose a bit of concentration, which we’ve addressed from past seasons.”

Sangakkara also praised Samson’s dedication to his fitness and recovery. “He’s changed his mindset about the importance of rest and recovery, rather than just training all the time and being tired mentally and physically. The rest is his exceptional ability,” Sangakkara said.

Samson, who has been on the fringes of the Indian team in recent years, has the potential to excel at the World Cup, according to Sangakkara. “He’s a special player and when he’s fresh and focused there’s nothing he can’t do,” Sangakkara said. “He’s a humble, grounded guy… not much on social media. He tends to like a lot of privacy, cares for the rest of the group.”

Categories: Cricket

RR Captain Sanju Samson Fined for Code of Conduct Violation

By Nilay May 8, 2024 0

Rajasthan Royals Captain Sanju Samson Fined for Code of Conduct Violation

During Rajasthan Royals’ 20-run defeat to Delhi Capitals at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, captain Sanju Samson breached the IPL Code of Conduct, resulting in a fine of 30% of his match earnings.

Samson’s offense, which was not explicitly stated, is believed to have stemmed from a dispute with the umpires following his dismissal in the 16th over. The RR captain questioned the third umpire’s decision to rule out a catch taken by Shai Hope near the boundary ropes.

Samson’s dissatisfaction was evident as he initially turned towards the pavilion but then stopped to engage in a discussion with the on-field umpires.

The IPL issued a statement confirming Samson’s Level 1 offense under Article 2.8 of the IPL’s Code of Conduct. The statement read, “Samson committed a Level 1 offence under Article 2.8 of the IPL’s Code of Conduct. He admitted to the offence and accepted the Match Referee’s sanction. For Level 1 breaches of the Code of Conduct, the Match Referee’s decision is final and binding.”

Article 2.8 of the IPL’s Code of Conduct defines a Level 1 offense as “excessive, obvious disappointment with an Umpire’s decision; an obvious delay in resuming play or leaving the wicket; requesting a referral to the TV Umpire and arguing or entering into a prolonged discussion with the Umpire about his/her decision.”

This is not the first time Samson has been fined for a Code of Conduct violation. On April 10, he was fined Rs 12 lakh for RR’s slow overrate in their match against the Gujarat Titans.

Samson’s fine serves as a reminder to players of the importance of adhering to the IPL’s Code of Conduct. The code is in place to ensure fair play and maintain the integrity of the tournament.

Categories: Cricket

RCB Seeks Playoff Lifeline in Scenic Dharamsala Clash

By Nilay May 8, 2024 0

RCB Embarks on Crucial Clash in Picturesque Dharamsala

With their playoff hopes hanging in the balance, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have arrived in the picturesque town of Dharamsala for a pivotal encounter against the Punjab Kings. The match, scheduled for Thursday at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, will be played against the stunning backdrop of the Dhauladhar mountain range.

The RCB squad, including several players experiencing Dharamsala for the first time, were captivated by the stadium’s beauty. They were spotted posing for photographs and capturing the scenic views before their training session. The franchise shared a video on social media showcasing these moments.

Leading the charge of cricketers-turned-photographers was team captain Faf du Plessis, who was seen taking pictures and posing with his teammates. RCB’s current standings in the IPL 2024 table are precarious, with only four wins from 11 matches. They occupy seventh place with 8 points, while Punjab Kings also have 8 points but trail RCB on net run rate.

Both teams still harbor an outside chance of reaching the playoffs, but they must not only win their remaining three matches but also rely on favorable results in other fixtures. The match in Dharamsala promises to be a crucial test for both sides as they strive to keep their playoff aspirations alive.

Categories: Cricket

Andre Russell: Fashionista, Bollywood Debutant, and IPL All-Rounder

By Nilay May 8, 2024 0

Kolkata Knight Riders co-owner Shah Rukh Khan has showered praise on his star player Andre Russell, calling him a “fashionista” and comparing his camaraderie with Rinku Singh to the iconic Jai-Veeru duo from the movie “Sholey.”

Russell, a big-hitting West Indies all-rounder, has been a long-time recruit of the two-time IPL franchise. Khan lauded Russell’s fashion sense, saying, “He likes to dress well, do his hair.” He also revealed that Russell owns designer spikes, including Gucci ones.

Amidst the praise, news broke that Russell would be making his debut in a Hindi music video titled “Ladki Tu Kamaal Ki,” featuring actress Avika Gor. The first look of the video went viral on social media.

Russell’s debut in Bollywood as a singer and actor has been met with excitement. The all-rounder has taken the tag of “all-rounder” seriously, extending his talents beyond the cricket field.

Former Pakistan pacer Wasim Akram, who worked with Russell and Sunil Narine as bowling coach of Kolkata Knight Riders, revealed the bizarre schedule of the West Indies stars during the IPL. Akram said that Narine and Russell stay up all night and sleep during the day when in India for the tournament.

“When I was a part of KKR, I would wake up early for breakfast. Sunil Narine came for breakfast with swollen eyes. I asked him, ‘Hey mate! What’s happening?'” Akram recalled. “He said I haven’t slept. I said what do you mean I haven’t slept. He said I am on West Indies time.”

Akram added that Russell also follows the same schedule, sleeping during the day and staying up all night.

Russell’s debut music video, “Ladki Tu Kamaal Ki,” is set to release soon, adding another dimension to his already impressive career.

Categories: Cricket

Pat Cummins Recalls Unforgettable IPL Title Win with Kolkata Knight Riders

By Nilay May 8, 2024 0

Pat Cummins, the current captain of Sunrisers Hyderabad, has been a force to reckon with in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) season. With 13 wickets in 11 matches, Cummins has played a pivotal role in SRH’s success, leading them to the fourth spot in the points table.

Cummins’ journey in the IPL began with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), where he was part of the title-winning team in 2014. In a recent video that has gone viral, Cummins reminisces about the unforgettable experience of winning the IPL with KKR.

“We won in 2014. A couple of days after the final, we went back to Kolkata, went to the stadium, just to do a kind of a walking fanfare. And the stadium was packed. It was about 80-90 thousand people just waving back at the team and the streets were lined with a few hundred thousand people just to get a glimpse of the team,” Cummins recalls.

He adds, “And then you know you back home and your missus doesn’t even look at you. It’s like hang on, I had half a million people two days ago.”

Cummins’ words paint a vivid picture of the immense adulation and support that IPL teams receive in India. The IPL has become a cultural phenomenon, capturing the hearts and minds of millions of fans across the country.

Cummins’ leadership has been instrumental in SRH’s resurgence this season. The team has won six of their 11 matches and is well-positioned to qualify for the playoffs. Cummins’ ability to inspire his teammates and create a winning environment has been crucial to SRH’s success.

As SRH prepares to face Lucknow Super Giants in their next match, Cummins will be looking to continue his impressive form and guide his team to another victory. With his experience, skill, and determination, Cummins is poised to play a major role in SRH’s quest for the IPL title.

Categories: Cricket

Cardinals Catcher Willson Contreras Fractures Forearm, Out Six Weeks

By Nilay May 8, 2024 0

Cardinals Catcher Willson Contreras Fractures Forearm, Sidelined for Six Weeks

St. Louis Cardinals catcher Willson Contreras has suffered a devastating blow to his season, fracturing his left forearm after being struck by a swing during Tuesday night’s game against the New York Mets. The three-time All-Star is expected to undergo surgery and miss at least six weeks of action.

Contreras was injured in the second inning when Mets designated hitter J.D. Martinez swung and connected with his forearm. The impact sent Contreras tumbling to the ground in agony. After being examined by the Cardinals’ training staff, he was diagnosed with a left forearm fracture.

The injury is a major setback for the Cardinals, who have relied heavily on Contreras’s leadership and offensive production. The 31-year-old is hitting .280 with six homers and 12 RBIs this season.

“He’s been doing such a phenomenal job,” said Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol. “He’s an extreme competitor. He brings so much to the club performance-wise, but also with just his competitive nature, so to see him go down is tough.”

Contreras expressed his disappointment at missing significant time, but vowed to support his teammates from the sidelines.

“I’m really upset missing,” Contreras said. “I know that it’s going to be tough for me to watch the games and not out there with the guys, but I’m going to do my best to stay present, pick each other up and cheer for them because that’s the best thing I can do.”

Martinez, who was awarded first base due to catcher’s interference, expressed remorse for the incident.

“I hit meat,” Martinez said. “I felt like I hit meat. I didn’t hit like just like a glove where you kind of just point back to catcher, it was just solid. I was like, dude, I hit him good. … I felt terrible.”

Contreras’s injury is a reminder of the inherent risks involved in baseball. Despite the protective gear worn by catchers, they are often vulnerable to being struck by foul tips or wild swings.

The Cardinals will now turn to Iván Herrera to fill the void behind the plate. Herrera, a 26-year-old prospect, has limited major league experience but has shown promise in the minors.

Categories: Others

Tristan Stubbs: Hockey Skills Powering Batting Success in IPL 2024

RCB and PBKS Clash in Crucial IPL Survival Battle

Sanju Samson Impresses Hayden with IPL Performance, Earns T20 World Cup Call-Up

Yuvraj Singh: Rohit Sharma Deserves to Lead India to World Cup Glory

Sanju Samson Stakes Claim for India’s Wicketkeeper-Batsman Role at T20 World Cup

RR Captain Sanju Samson Fined for Code of Conduct Violation

RCB Seeks Playoff Lifeline in Scenic Dharamsala Clash

Andre Russell: Fashionista, Bollywood Debutant, and IPL All-Rounder

Pat Cummins Recalls Unforgettable IPL Title Win with Kolkata Knight Riders

Cardinals Catcher Willson Contreras Fractures Forearm, Out Six Weeks

NO SHIPPING CHARGES

CUSTOMER SERVICE

100% AUTHENTIC PRODUCTS

SECURE SHIPPING

Main Menu

Search For Products

Login

NO SHIPPING CHARGES

CUSTOMER SERVICE

100% AUTHENTIC PRODUCTS

SECURE SHIPPING

Main Menu

Search For Products