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India's T20 World Cup Squad: Rohit, Agarkar Address Selection Questions

India’s T20 World Cup Squad: Rohit, Agarkar Address Selection Questions

By May 3, 2024 0

India’s T20 World Cup Squad Selection: Rohit Sharma and Ajit Agarkar Address Media

On Thursday, India captain Rohit Sharma and chief selector Ajit Agarkar held a press conference to discuss the recently announced T20 World Cup 2024 squad. The duo addressed various questions regarding the selection process, including the omission of Rinku Singh and Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli’s strike rate, and the wicket-keeping choices.

Rinku Singh and Shubman Gill Snub

Agarkar acknowledged that leaving out Rinku Singh and Shubman Gill was a difficult decision. He emphasized that both players had performed well, but the selection was based on team combinations.

Virat Kohli’s Strike Rate

Agarkar and Rohit dismissed concerns about Virat Kohli’s strike rate, stating that it was not a factor in his selection. They highlighted his experience and ability to perform at the highest level.

Wicket-Keeping Choices

Sanju Samson and Rishabh Pant were selected as wicket-keepers, while KL Rahul was omitted. Agarkar explained that Rahul’s role as an opener for his IPL franchise influenced the decision.

Shivam Dube’s Selection

Despite not bowling regularly in the IPL, Shivam Dube was included in the squad. Rohit attributed this to his all-round abilities and his previous performances for India.

Hardik Pandya’s Form and Vice-Captaincy

Agarkar and Rohit expressed satisfaction with Hardik Pandya’s fitness and form. They hoped he would continue to improve in the remaining IPL matches. They also stated that there had been no discussions regarding his vice-captaincy.

Conclusion

The press conference provided insights into the selection process for India’s T20 World Cup squad. The selectors emphasized the importance of team combinations, experience, and versatility in their decision-making.

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Ponting Deciphers T20 Cricket's Evolution: Batting Strategies and Impact Player Rule

Ponting Deciphers T20 Cricket’s Evolution: Batting Strategies and Impact Player Rule

By May 3, 2024 0

T20 Cricket’s Evolution: Ponting Analyzes Batting Strategies and the Impact Player Rule

Ricky Ponting, the esteemed coach of Delhi Capitals and former Australian cricket legend, has provided insightful commentary on the remarkable evolution of T20 cricket and the transformative shifts in batting strategies that have shaped the modern era.

Ponting acknowledges the once-unthinkable possibility of 300-run scores, attributing this to the liberating effect of the impact player rule on batters. He emphasizes the abandonment of traditional settling-in periods, highlighting the immediate need to “go out and hit from ball one.”

The significance of strike rates has also escalated, with Ponting noting the increasing focus on achieving specific strike rates regardless of ball count. He observes that teams like Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians employ varying approaches to anchor roles, recognizing the need for stability and explosiveness in different team compositions.

Ponting initially harbored skepticism towards T20 cricket’s sustainability, but he now recognizes its enduring appeal, particularly evident in the high-octane spectacle of the Indian Premier League. He applauds the fearlessness and adaptability of modern batters, emphasizing their relentless pursuit of innovation and range-hitting prowess.

Ponting predicts a paradigm shift towards 250-plus scores in India, fueled by the impact player rule and evolving ground dynamics. He believes that the format will continue to evolve, with batters pushing the boundaries of innovation and entertainment.

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India's T20 World Cup Squad Raises Concerns Over Pace Bowling

India’s T20 World Cup Squad Raises Concerns Over Pace Bowling

By May 3, 2024 0

India’s T20 World Cup 2024 squad has raised concerns about the team’s pace bowling capabilities. Despite the presence of Jasprit Bumrah, India lacks a consistent and in-form pacer. Hardik Pandya’s underwhelming performances in the ongoing IPL have further dampened expectations.

Legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has expressed his surprise at the omission of T Natarajan from the squad. Gavaskar praised Natarajan’s impressive performances in the IPL, suggesting that he could have been a valuable addition to the team.

“I was thinking more like T Natarajan, the left-arm pacer bowler. He has been bowling extremely well. So, I thought maybe he could have been in the team,” Gavaskar said.

However, Gavaskar expressed confidence in the experience of the selected seam bowlers. “But that’s okay. I think the seam bowlers that they have got, they all have experience. So no problem with that,” he added.

Another talking point has been the retention of Hardik Pandya as vice-captain despite his struggles in the IPL. Pandya has scored only 197 runs and taken just four wickets in 10 games.

Gavaskar believes that Pandya will perform differently when playing for India. “There’s a big difference playing in the IPL and playing for your country. Playing for your country brings out something different in every player and Hardik Pandya will be a different player,” he said.

“He’s had to face a lot of issues in this particular tournament (IPL), he’s handled it quite well. When he goes overseas and has to play for India, I think he will be in a completely different frame of mind.”

Gavaskar also expressed optimism about India’s chances of winning the World Cup. “They are title contenders, without a question. At the international level, sometimes you need a bit of luck and if this Indian team has just that little bit of luck, then I’m very confident that after 2007 (triumph), the T20 World Cup will come back to India.”

He believes that the players will be well-prepared for the tournament due to their extensive experience in the IPL. “They’ll go with good rhythm (following the IPL); the bowlers would have bowled a fair bit of overs, the batters will have enough time out in the middle, some of them would have scored 80s, 90s 100s.”

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India Unveils 15-Member Squad for 2024 T20 World Cup

India Unveils 15-Member Squad for 2024 T20 World Cup

By May 3, 2024 0

India’s quest for T20 World Cup glory continues as they prepare for the 2024 edition in the USA and West Indies. The Ajit Agarkar-led selection panel has named a 15-member squad, hoping to end India’s decade-long ICC trophy drought.

Rohit Sharma will lead the charge as captain, with Hardik Pandya as his deputy. The squad boasts a mix of experience and youth, with eight players from the 2022 T20 WC squad making the cut.

Rohit Sharma, despite a slow start to 2023, has regained his form in IPL 2024, scoring 315 runs at a strike rate of 158.29. Hardik Pandya, on the other hand, has struggled with injuries and form, but remains a key all-rounder.

Explosive opener Yashasvi Jaiswal has impressed since his T20I debut in 2023, amassing 502 runs at a strike rate of 161.93. Virat Kohli, India’s all-time leading T20I run-scorer, has also regained his touch, scoring 500 runs in IPL 2024.

Suryakumar Yadav, the world’s No.1 T20I batter, is the backbone of India’s batting lineup. He has smashed 466 T20I runs since IPL 2023 at a strike rate of 158.

Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has made a strong comeback after a serious car crash, scoring 398 runs in IPL 2024. Sanju Samson, another wicketkeeper-batter, has also impressed with 385 runs in nine matches.

Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, and Mohammed Siraj complete the squad.

India will face stiff competition in the 2024 T20 World Cup, but they will be determined to bring home the trophy and end their ICC drought.

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Gambhir Reveals the Batsman He Feared Most in IPL: Rohit Sharma

Gambhir Reveals the Batsman He Feared Most in IPL: Rohit Sharma

By May 3, 2024 0

Gautam Gambhir Reveals the Batsman He Feared the Most in IPL: Rohit Sharma

Ahead of Kolkata Knight Riders’ (KKR) IPL 2024 match against Mumbai Indians, former KKR captain Gautam Gambhir has opened up about the batsman who gave him the most sleepless nights during his time as skipper.

In an interview with Star Sports, Gambhir revealed that Rohit Sharma was the only player he truly feared in the IPL. “In my entire IPL career as captain, only one player had given me sleepless nights, and that was Rohit Sharma. The only batsman I feared in IPL was Rohit Sharma. No Chris Gayle, no AB de Villiers, only Rohit Sharma because I knew that I had to have Plan A, Plan B and probably Plan C as well,” said Gambhir.

Gambhir explained that Sharma’s ability to dominate any bowling attack made him a formidable opponent. “If Rohit is in, I don’t think anyone can control him. I have never planned for any other batter in the IPL except Rohit Sharma.”

Gambhir’s fear of Sharma was evident in his meticulous planning against the Mumbai Indians captain. “There have been times when I have seen the visuals and I would say ‘fair enough, Plan A is fine’. But with Rohit Sharma, probably one night before (the match), I used to think if this doesn’t work, I have to get the other plan; if Sunil (Narine) is going to bowl his four overs, who all are going to bowl the rest 16; and if I finish off Sunil (overs) early and Rohit is (still) there, he can hit 30 (runs) off one over as well.”

Gambhir’s respect for Sharma is understandable given the latter’s remarkable IPL record. Sharma has led Mumbai Indians to five IPL titles, the most by any captain in the tournament’s history. He is also the all-time leading run-scorer in the IPL, with over 6,000 runs to his name.

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Jadeja Advocates Kohli as Opener, Rohit at Number Three for India's T20 World Cup Campaign

Jadeja Advocates Kohli as Opener, Rohit at Number Three for India’s T20 World Cup Campaign

By May 3, 2024 0

India’s T20 World Cup Strategy: Jadeja Advocates Kohli as Opener, Rohit at Number Three

Former Indian all-rounder Ajay Jadeja has proposed a tactical shift for Team India in the upcoming T20 World Cup in the Americas. Jadeja believes that captain Rohit Sharma should move down to the number three position, allowing Virat Kohli to open the innings.

Jadeja argues that Kohli’s consistency and ability to anchor the innings make him the ideal candidate for the opening slot. “If you have Virat in your side, you know consistency is the one thing you will get, so, might as well use him,” he said. “He’s best at the top and the powerplay allows him to settle in.”

By moving Rohit down to number three, Jadeja believes he will have more time to assess the game and make informed decisions as captain. “He gets a little cushion and gets to understand the game, he has so much going on, in his mind as a captain,” Jadeja explained.

Jadeja also defended the inclusion of Hardik Pandya in the squad, despite his recent struggles in the IPL. “He’s a special player, a rare commodity you find in our country where somebody bowls seam-up and can make it to the side with his batting,” Jadeja said.

However, Jadeja acknowledged that Pandya’s selection was not based on current form. “The selection has not been on form, there’s no doubt about it,” he said. “It depends on how you want to play. It’s one of the things I look at this team and think they don’t have many options.”

Jadeja emphasized that the team’s strategy will ultimately depend on Rohit’s vision. “It will all depend on what Rohit thinks,” he said.

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Rohit Sharma's Batting Woes Against Left-Arm Seamers Raise Concerns Ahead of T20 World Cup

Rohit Sharma’s Batting Woes Against Left-Arm Seamers Raise Concerns Ahead of T20 World Cup

By May 3, 2024 0

Rohit Sharma’s recent batting struggles have raised concerns ahead of the T20 World Cup. Despite a promising start to IPL 2024, including a century against Chennai Super Kings, Rohit has failed to reach double figures in his last three innings.

Former India opener Wasim Jaffer has identified Rohit’s vulnerability against left-arm seamers as a potential chink in his armor. “He had his problems against left-arm seamers. The way he plants his front leg, you could always feel that anything that’s coming in will trouble him,” Jaffer said.

This weakness could be particularly problematic for Rohit in the T20 World Cup, where India is likely to face Pakistan and its star left-arm pacer, Shaheen Afridi. Other skilled left-armers in the tournament will also be closely monitoring Rohit’s batting form.

Jaffer suggests that Rohit should adopt a more cautious approach against left-armers, avoiding aggressive shots early in his innings. “I think he’s got decent numbers against Mitchell Starc. And Starc’s form is a concern, Rohit knows that. Rohit also hasn’t scored the runs in his last four matches, so he will be keen to get into the World Cup with a bit of form,” Jaffer said.

“I feel Rohit needs to take a little bit more time; he’s trying to muscle the ball too early in his innings. He can take a couple of overs to get himself in and look to time the ball rather than trying to hit it too hard. It’s going to be an interesting match-up, as any left-handers for Rohit Sharma is a little bit of worry,” Jaffer added.

Rohit’s struggles against left-arm seamers will be a key area to watch in the remaining IPL matches and the upcoming T20 World Cup. If he can overcome this weakness, he will be a crucial asset for India in their quest for the title.

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Real Madrid on Cusp of La Liga Title, Girona Holds the Key

Real Madrid on Cusp of La Liga Title, Girona Holds the Key

By May 3, 2024 0

Real Madrid, the current leaders of La Liga, have a chance to secure their 36th Spanish title this weekend. However, they need a helping hand from Girona, this season’s surprise challengers.

Madrid will host Cadiz on Saturday, and if they win, they will need Girona to take points off Barcelona, the defending champions, in the following match. If both conditions are met, Los Blancos will extend their record-breaking title count.

Girona, in their fourth season in La Liga, have been a revelation this season. They were Madrid’s main rivals for the top spot for much of the campaign, but their momentum stalled after a 4-0 defeat to Ancelotti’s side in February.

Despite the setback, Girona have regrouped and are now on the verge of qualifying for the Champions League for the first time in their history. A victory over Barcelona in the Catalan derby would not only secure their place in the top four but also make club history.

Even though the title could be within their grasp this weekend, Madrid’s focus is divided as they prepare for the second leg of their Champions League semi-final against Bayern Munich. Los Blancos earned a creditable 2-2 draw in Munich and will host the German giants on Wednesday.

Ancelotti is likely to rotate his squad, as he did in their narrow win over Real Sociedad last week. The likes of Luka Modric, Joselu, Nacho, and Lucas Vazquez have proven to be reliable options when called upon.

Aurelien Tchouameni is set to miss the game with a knock, while Thibaut Courtois could make his first appearance of the season. Ancelotti has indicated that the Belgian goalkeeper is ready to return after two knee injuries kept him sidelined since pre-season.

Jude Bellingham, Madrid’s top scorer, may also be rested as he has struggled with various physical issues in the second half of the season. “He hasn’t been at his best, but he’ll be back very soon and by Wednesday he’ll be at 100 percent,” said Ancelotti.

Cadiz travel to the Bernabeu with slim hopes of survival. The Andalucians are 18th, five points from safety behind Celta Vigo. “The situation is very tricky and I understand the tension… but there are five games to go,” said Cadiz goalkeeper Jeremias Ledesma.

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Marseille and Atalanta Draw 1-1 in Europa League Semi-Final First Leg

Marseille and Atalanta Draw 1-1 in Europa League Semi-Final First Leg

By May 3, 2024 0

Marseille and Atalanta played to a thrilling 1-1 draw in the first leg of their Europa League semi-final, setting up an intriguing second leg in Bergamo next Thursday.

Atalanta, who stunned Liverpool in the quarter-finals, took an early lead through Gianluca Scamacca, who capitalized on a defensive lapse to fire past Pau Lopez. However, Marseille responded swiftly, with Chancel Mbemba unleashing a stunning strike from outside the box to level the scores.

The draw leaves the tie finely poised, with Atalanta holding a slight advantage as they seek to reach their first European final. The Italian side has been impressive in this season’s competition, showcasing their attacking prowess and resilience.

Marseille, on the other hand, have been formidable at home, with Paris Saint-Germain being the only visiting team to defeat them at the Velodrome in 90 minutes this season. However, their struggles on the road have been evident, making their semi-final appearance a commendable achievement.

Despite the draw, Marseille coach Jean-Louis Gasset expressed some disappointment, believing his team had chances to secure a victory. “I am not completely satisfied because we had two or three chances to win the match 2-1,” he said. “But it is only half-time in the tie, and we are going to go and give everything in Italy.”

Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasperini was pleased with his team’s performance, acknowledging Marseille’s strength. “It is a very positive result for us because Marseille were strong,” he said. “They have only lost once here all season, and we found out why that is tonight.”

The second leg in Bergamo promises to be a captivating affair, with both teams aiming to secure a place in the final in Dublin later this month. Atalanta will be favored, but Marseille will be determined to overcome their travel woes and make history.

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Virat Kohli's Role in India's T20 World Cup Squad Debated

Virat Kohli’s Role in India’s T20 World Cup Squad Debated

By May 3, 2024 0

Virat Kohli’s inclusion in India’s T20 World Cup squad has sparked debates about his role in the team. While some believe he should open the batting, others suggest he should play as an anchor. However, former Australia all-rounder Tom Moody believes there is no such thing as an anchor in T20s.

Kohli has been in impressive form for Royal Challengers Bangalore in the IPL, scoring 500 runs at a strike rate of 147.49. This has led to suggestions that he could open the batting for India at the T20 World Cup, alongside Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal.

However, Moody believes that Kohli should not be pigeonholed into a specific role. “He’s got many gears. He needs to work through those. He’s smart enough and experienced enough to adjust to 11-an-over or 9-an-over required rate,” said Moody.

Kohli has a proven track record in T20 internationals, having played some sublime knocks for India. His 82 against Australia in Mohali during the 2016 T20 World Cup and his 82 not out against Pakistan in Melbourne during the 2022 T20 World Cup are just two examples.

Former India pacer Irfan Pathan believes that Kohli will have a major impact on the upcoming T20 World Cup. “Jab waqt aata hai, yehi player akela khada hota hai, Virat Kohli (when it’s required, he is the player who stands alone),” said Pathan.

India will open their T20 World Cup campaign against Ireland on June 5 in New York, followed by the big game against Pakistan on June 9 at the same venue.

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