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Indian Cricket Team Selection for T20 World Cup: Key Decisions and Contested Roles

Indian Cricket Team Selection for T20 World Cup: Key Decisions and Contested Roles

By April 30, 2024 0

The Indian cricket team’s selection for the T20 World Cup 2024 is a complex task for the BCCI and team management. While most players are likely to be retained, several backup roles remain fiercely contested.

Captain Rohit Sharma faces two crucial decisions: whether to include a fourth specialist pacer alongside Hardik Pandya and whether to consider Shubman Gill. Hardik Pandya’s vice-captaincy is also under scrutiny, with Rishabh Pant emerging as a potential contender.

Yuzvendra Chahal, despite being the IPL’s leading wicket-taker, may be overlooked in favor of Kuldeep Yadav as the primary spinner. Axar Patel is expected to edge out Ravi Bishnoi for the second spinner’s spot.

The top order is likely to feature Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, and Suryakumar Yadav. The middle order will comprise Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, and Ravindra Jadeja. Shivam Dube or Rinku Singh could be included as an all-rounder, while Sanju Samson or KL Rahul will compete for the second wicketkeeper’s role.

Hardik Pandya’s recent performances for Mumbai Indians have raised concerns, with the all-rounder scoring only 197 runs and taking four wickets at a high economy rate.

A recent poll conducted by NDTV Sports revealed that fans believe Hardik Pandya should not be included in the Indian team for the T20 World Cup.

Categories: Cricket
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IPL Performers: A Cautionary Tale for India's T20 World Cup Selection

IPL Performers: A Cautionary Tale for India’s T20 World Cup Selection

By April 30, 2024 0

IPL Performers: A Cautionary Tale for India’s T20 World Cup Selection

As the Indian Premier League (IPL) reaches its climax, cricket fans are once again clamoring for the inclusion of young players who have dazzled in the tournament. However, history has shown that IPL performances alone are not a reliable indicator of success at the international level, particularly in major competitions like the T20 World Cup.

One of the key reasons for this is the difference in the level of competition. In the IPL, Indian batters often face fewer quality international bowlers than they would in a global tournament. Additionally, the wickets in the Caribbean and America, where the T20 World Cup will be held, may not be as flat as those in the IPL, requiring more technical batting skills rather than just power hitting.

Another factor to consider is the team dynamics. Players who shine for their franchises in certain positions may not get the same opportunities with the national team, as India already has established performers in those roles. For example, Abhishek Sharma and Ruturaj Gaikwad, who have excelled as openers for Sunrisers Hyderabad and Chennai Super Kings respectively, face stiff competition from Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal.

The selectors have also made costly mistakes in the past by relying too heavily on IPL performers. In the 2021 T20 World Cup, Varun Chakravarthy was selected based on his impressive season for Kolkata Knight Riders, but he struggled to replicate his form in the same conditions for India. Similarly, in the 2022 T20 World Cup, Dinesh Karthik was preferred over Rishabh Pant as a finisher, a decision that ultimately backfired.

Instead of focusing solely on IPL performances, the selectors should prioritize maintaining a fresh pool of players after the grueling two-month tournament. History has shown that teams that have played in the IPL immediately before a major tournament have struggled to perform well.

In conclusion, while the IPL can provide a glimpse of potential talent, it is important to approach the selection of the T20 World Cup squad with caution. The selectors must consider the different conditions and level of competition, as well as the team dynamics, to ensure that they choose the best possible players to represent India.

Categories: Cricket
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Rinku Singh a 'Certainty' for India's T20 World Cup Squad, Says Srikkanth

Rinku Singh a ‘Certainty’ for India’s T20 World Cup Squad, Says Srikkanth

By April 30, 2024 0

Krishnamachari Srikkanth, the former India opener and chief selector, has strongly advocated for the inclusion of left-handed batter Rinku Singh in India’s 15-member squad for the upcoming Men’s T20 World Cup. Srikkanth believes that Singh’s impressive international track record and finishing skills make him a certainty for the team.

Singh rose to prominence during the 2023 IPL season, where he hit five consecutive sixes in the final over against the Gujarat Titans. He continued to showcase his finishing prowess throughout the season, amassing 356 runs in 15 T20I matches for India, with a remarkable strike rate of 176.23.

Despite limited opportunities in the ongoing IPL 2024 due to Kolkata Knight Riders’ strong top-order performance, Singh has maintained a high strike rate of 157.74 in eight matches. Srikkanth emphasized that Singh’s international record should be prioritized over recent form.

“Rinku Singh is a certainty in my 15. He hasn’t got that many opportunities to bat in the IPL, but you see his international track record, it’s an amazing track record. Amazing track record in South Africa and with every opportunity he has got. So Rinku Singh has to be a certainty in the 15,” said Srikkanth.

Matthew Hayden, the former Australia batter, also praised the IPL for its role in identifying and developing Indian talent. He believes that the tournament has brought players like Singh and Yashasvi Jaiswal into the spotlight, making them contenders for the World Cup squad.

India, the 2007 T20 World Cup champions, will begin their campaign on June 5 against Ireland in New York. They are placed in Group A alongside Pakistan, Canada, and tournament co-hosts USA.

Categories: Cricket
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KKR Spinner Varun Chakravarthy Suggests Cheerleaders Dance Only for Sixes

KKR Spinner Varun Chakravarthy Suggests Cheerleaders Dance Only for Sixes

By April 30, 2024 0

Amidst the high-scoring extravaganza of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) season, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) spinner Varun Chakravarthy has proposed a novel suggestion to alleviate the workload of cheerleaders. With boundaries becoming increasingly common in IPL 2024, cheerleaders have been facing an overwhelming demand for their services.

Chakravarthy’s tongue-in-cheek remark came after KKR’s victory over Delhi Capitals, where the boundary count reached unprecedented levels. “Unfortunately, that has become the trend, and maybe they should dance only for the sixes and not for fours,” he quipped after receiving the ‘Man of the Match’ award.

Chakravarthy’s suggestion stems from the sheer volume of boundaries being hit this season. With scores of 250+ becoming commonplace, the number of boundaries has skyrocketed, leading to an overload of work for cheerleaders.

Despite the lighthearted nature of his comment, Chakravarthy’s observation highlights the changing dynamics of the IPL. The emphasis on boundary hitting has shifted the focus away from traditional cricket skills, resulting in a proliferation of boundaries and a corresponding increase in the workload for cheerleaders.

Chakravarthy’s performance against Delhi Capitals was a testament to his adaptability to the new demands of the IPL. He registered impressive figures of 3/16 in his four overs, restricting DC to a manageable total of 153/9.

In the chase, Phil Salt led the charge for KKR with a blistering 68 off just 33 deliveries. Shreyas Iyer and Venkatesh Iyer then guided the team to victory, completing the chase in 16.3 overs.

Reflecting on his performance, Chakravarthy acknowledged the challenges he faced in the previous match against Punjab Kings, who pulled off a record IPL chase of 263. “It was nice to get some wickets after a difficult outing last time,” he said.

Chakravarthy also praised the support he received from his teammates and coaching staff after his disappointing performance in the previous match. “Everyone, including Abhishek Nayar and Shahrukh Khan, spoke to me, and that was nice,” he added.

Categories: Cricket
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India's T20 World Cup Squad Announcement Today: Timesofindia.com Brings You the Latest

India’s T20 World Cup Squad Announcement Today: Timesofindia.com Brings You the Latest

By April 30, 2024 0

India’s T20 World Cup Squad Announcement Imminent: All the Latest Updates

The highly anticipated BCCI selection committee meeting to finalize India’s squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup is expected to take place today. Timesofindia.com will provide comprehensive coverage of the event, bringing you the latest updates and insights as the 15 players who will represent the nation are announced.

The T20 World Cup is scheduled to commence shortly after the conclusion of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL), which culminates on May 26. The tournament will feature some of the world’s top cricket teams competing for the coveted title.

Key Considerations for the Selection Committee

The selection committee will have several factors to consider when finalizing the squad. The team’s recent performances in the IPL will be a major factor, as will the players’ overall form and fitness. The committee will also need to balance experience with youth, ensuring a blend of seasoned veterans and promising young talent.

Contenders for Selection

Several players have emerged as strong contenders for selection based on their impressive performances in the IPL. These include:

* Batsmen: Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant
* All-rounders: Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel
* Bowlers: Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Yuzvendra Chahal

Expectations and Predictions

India is one of the favorites to win the T20 World Cup, given their strong batting lineup and experienced bowling attack. However, the competition will be fierce, with other top teams such as England, Australia, and Pakistan also vying for the title.

Categories: Cricket
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Turner's Homers Power Blue Jays Past Royals

Turner’s Homers Power Blue Jays Past Royals

By April 30, 2024 0

Justin Turner’s two home runs propelled the Toronto Blue Jays to a 6-5 victory over the Kansas City Royals on Monday night. Turner’s first-inning two-run homer and third-inning solo shot marked his 16th career multi-homer game. Danny Jansen also contributed a solo homer in the third, his second of the season.

The Blue Jays’ offensive outburst ended a 21-game stretch where they had failed to score more than five runs. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Davis Schneider added RBIs to support the home run barrage.

Royals catcher Salvador Perez, initially scratched from the lineup due to a tight back, delivered a pinch-hit single in the ninth. However, Nate Pearson struck out Michael Massey to end the game, securing his first save of the season.

Kyle Isbel’s home run and two RBIs proved insufficient for the Royals, who extended their losing streak to three games. Freddy Fermin also homered for Kansas City.

Royals starter Jonathan Bowlan struggled, allowing four runs and six hits in 2 2/3 innings. Blue Jays starter Yariel Rodríguez also exited early, leaving the bases loaded in the third. Génesis Cabrera came on in relief and retired Vinnie Pasquantino to escape the jam.

In roster moves, the Royals optioned Will Klein to Triple-A to make room for Bowlan. The Blue Jays will send José Berríos to the mound on Tuesday against Kansas City’s Cole Ragans.

Categories: Others
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RCB Net Bowler Mukesh Kumar Stuns Fans with Jasprit Bumrah-Like Action

RCB Net Bowler Mukesh Kumar Stuns Fans with Jasprit Bumrah-Like Action

By April 30, 2024 0

Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s net bowler, Mukesh Kumar, has become an internet sensation after a video of his uncanny resemblance to Indian cricket star Jasprit Bumrah went viral on social media. Kumar’s bowling action is strikingly similar to Bumrah’s, leaving fans in awe of the young bowler’s potential.

Kumar, who played for Gujarat Titans in IPL 2022, was seen bowling at the nets with an action that perfectly mirrored Bumrah’s. Fans were quick to notice the similarities and expressed their excitement for Kumar’s future prospects.

Despite RCB’s struggles in IPL 2024, the team has kept their playoff hopes alive with recent victories. Virat Kohli has been their standout performer with the bat, providing crucial support to Will Jacks, who scored a sensational century against Gujarat Titans.

After the match, Kohli hit back at critics who questioned his strike rate, despite being the tournament’s leading run-scorer. “For me, it’s about winning games for the team,” Kohli said. “People can talk about their assumptions, but those who have played the game know what’s happening.”

Kumar’s emergence as a potential Bumrah-like bowler has added another layer of intrigue to the IPL 2024 season. With his impressive action and the support of RCB, Kumar could be poised for a breakout performance in the coming matches.

Categories: Cricket
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Nadal Faces Tough Test Against Rising Star Lehecka in Madrid

Nadal Faces Tough Test Against Rising Star Lehecka in Madrid

By April 30, 2024 0

Rafael Nadal’s return to competitive tennis has been met with mixed results, and his upcoming match against Jiri Lehecka in the Mutua Madrid Open presents a significant challenge. Nadal’s recent victory over Pedro Cachin was hard-fought, raising concerns about his physical condition and ability to withstand the rigors of a long match.

Lehecka, on the other hand, is a rising star with a powerful game that could pose problems for Nadal. Despite not being known as a clay-court specialist, Lehecka has shown impressive form on the surface, including a straight-set win over clay-court specialist Thiago Monteiro.

Nadal has acknowledged Lehecka’s heavy ball-striking ability, which could prove challenging for the Spaniard’s aging body. Additionally, Nadal’s serve has been inconsistent, making him vulnerable to breaks.

Lehecka’s reliability with the ball and his aggressive style could further exploit Nadal’s weaknesses. The Czech player’s ability to hit winners from both wings could wear down Nadal, who has struggled to maintain his peak performance in recent matches.

Given the factors working against Nadal, including his recent physical struggles and Lehecka’s impressive form, it may be prudent to consider fading Nadal in this matchup. Lehecka’s momentum and aggressive play could prove too much for the Spaniard to overcome.

Categories: Tennis
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Leicester City Crowned Championship Champions with 3-0 Win over Preston

Leicester City Crowned Championship Champions with 3-0 Win over Preston

By April 30, 2024 0

Leicester City celebrated their triumphant return to the Premier League in style on Monday, securing the Championship title with a resounding 3-0 victory over Preston at Deepdale. The Foxes’ promotion was confirmed after Leeds United’s unexpected 4-0 defeat at QPR on Friday.

Jamie Vardy, the 37-year-old captain and a key figure in Leicester’s historic Premier League triumph in 2016, played a pivotal role in the title-clinching victory. He opened the scoring with a mishit effort that found the far corner in the 36th minute. Vardy doubled Leicester’s lead in the second half, smashing the ball into an unguarded net after Wout Faes’ shot rebounded off the post.

Kasey McAteer sealed the title party with a header from Abdul Fatawu’s cross 23 minutes from time. The victory ensured that Leicester would finish top of the Championship with a game to spare, ahead of Ipswich Town.

Leicester’s return to the Premier League is a welcome relief after their surprising relegation last season. The club has been facing financial challenges and was charged by the Premier League in March for alleged breaches of profit and sustainability rules. If found guilty, Leicester could face a points deduction upon their return to the top flight.

The battle for the second automatic promotion spot will go down to the final day of the Championship season on Saturday. Leeds United currently sit second on goal difference ahead of Ipswich Town, who have a game in hand. Ipswich will host Huddersfield Town on the final day, while Leeds face Southampton at Elland Road. Only the top two teams will be automatically promoted, with teams finishing from third to sixth entering the playoffs for the third promotion spot.

Categories: Football
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US and Mexico Withdraw 2027 Women's World Cup Bid, Focus on 2031

US and Mexico Withdraw 2027 Women’s World Cup Bid, Focus on 2031

By April 30, 2024 0

The United States Soccer Federation (USSF) and its Mexican counterpart have withdrawn their joint bid to host the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, opting instead to focus on securing the 2031 tournament. This decision leaves Brazil and a combined bid from Germany, Netherlands, and Belgium as the remaining contenders for the 2027 event.

The USSF’s decision was driven by a desire to ensure equitable investment in both the men’s and women’s World Cups. FIFA had previously announced plans to allocate $896 million in prize money for the 2026 men’s World Cup, while only $110 million was allocated for the 2023 women’s World Cup.

“Hosting a World Cup tournament is a huge undertaking,” said USSF President Cindy Parlow Cone. “Shifting our bid will enable us to host a record-breaking Women’s World Cup in 2031 that will help to grow and raise the level of the women’s game both here at home as well as across the globe.”

The USSF’s 2031 bid will propose that FIFA invest equally in the men’s and women’s World Cups. This move is seen as a significant step towards achieving gender equity in the sport.

The Mexican Football Federation (MFF) echoed the USSF’s sentiments, stating that moving their bid to 2031 would allow them to “promote and build up to the most successful Women’s World Cup ever.”

The 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup will be the ninth edition of the tournament and the first to feature 32 teams. The host nation will be selected by the FIFA Congress on May 17 in Bangkok.

Categories: Football
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