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Agarkar's Presence at IPL Match Hints at Imminent T20 World Cup Squad Announcement

Agarkar’s Presence at IPL Match Hints at Imminent T20 World Cup Squad Announcement

By April 27, 2024 0

Ajit Agarkar, the chairman of the senior men’s selection committee, made a significant appearance at the Delhi Capitals-Mumbai Indians clash at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Saturday. His presence during the match sparked speculation that a meeting to finalize India’s squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup could be imminent.

Sources close to the matter revealed that Agarkar was spotted in the commentary box of the media center at the stadium. This suggests that he may have been in discussions with key stakeholders regarding the team selection.

Earlier reports had indicated that Agarkar was scheduled to meet captain Rohit Sharma in New Delhi after returning from a holiday in Spain. The purpose of this meeting was to finalize India’s squad for the T20 World Cup, which is set to commence on June 1 in the West Indies and USA.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has set a cut-off date of May 1 for all teams to announce their 15-member squads for the Men’s T20 World Cup. India will kick off their campaign against Ireland on June 5 at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York.

As the 2007 Men’s T20 World Cup winners, India is placed in Group A alongside Pakistan, Canada, and tournament co-hosts USA. The team will be eager to make a strong showing in the tournament and reclaim the title.

Agarkar’s presence at the Delhi-Mumbai match suggests that the selection committee is actively working to finalize the squad. With the cut-off date approaching, it is likely that an announcement will be made soon.

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Sunrisers Spin to Seven-Wicket Win over The Blaze

Sunrisers Spin to Seven-Wicket Win over The Blaze

By April 27, 2024 0

Sunrisers’ Mady Villiers’ spin wizardry proved too much for The Blaze as they cruised to a seven-wicket victory in a rain-shortened encounter at Chelmsford.

The former England white-ball international spun her magic, claiming 3 for 18 from nine overs, as The Blaze, missing several key players, were dismissed for a paltry 87 in a game reduced to 42 overs per side.

England U19 Jodi Grewcock complemented Villiers’ efforts with 1 for 7 from eight overs, leaving The Blaze reeling at 52 for 6 after losing four wickets for four runs. Australian seamer Nicola Hancock then polished off the tail with 3 for 20.

Sunrisers faced some early setbacks in their chase, but skipper Grace Scrivens’ unbeaten 46 guided them to victory in the 21st over. Villiers fittingly sealed the win with the winning runs.

The match was delayed due to overnight and morning rain, and the overcast conditions and grassy pitch favored the bowlers. Scrivens’ decision to field first proved astute as The Blaze struggled to cope with the spin duo of Villiers and Grewcock.

Marie Kelly, who was dropped early on, was dismissed by Hancock, while Teresa Graves fell to Kate Coppack. Daisy Mullan and Nadine de Klerk briefly threatened a fightback, but Villiers and Grewcock’s introduction proved decisive.

Villiers trapped de Klerk in front and bowled Mullan, while Grewcock dismissed Ella Claridge. Sarah Glenn’s wicket gave Villiers her third scalp, and The Blaze’s recovery hopes were dashed as Hancock and Coppack cleaned up the tail.

Sunrisers, who had been bowled out for 150 in a heavy defeat to Thunder three days earlier, initially struggled in their chase. Ariana Dowse was dismissed by Grace Ballinger, and Cordelia Griffith was run out in a mix-up with Scrivens.

However, Scrivens and Grewcock steadied the ship with a 40-run stand, and although Grewcock departed before the end, Sunrisers cruised to victory, with Villiers hitting the winning runs.

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Vaishali Rameshbabu's Remarkable Comeback at the Candidates Tournament

Vaishali Rameshbabu’s Remarkable Comeback at the Candidates Tournament

By April 27, 2024 0

Vaishali Rameshbabu’s remarkable comeback at the Candidates Tournament has been a testament to her resilience and determination. After a disastrous start with four consecutive losses, the 22-year-old Indian prodigy rallied to win five straight games, finishing tied second with 7.5 points.

Vaishali’s turnaround began with a crucial victory over Nurgyul Salimova in Round 10. The Bulgarian was on the verge of victory but self-destructed, giving Vaishali the breakthrough she desperately needed.

“In such tournaments, luck plays an important role,” Vaishali acknowledged. “It’s not entirely about how well you prepare or play.”

Despite her initial setbacks, Vaishali remained confident in her abilities. “I knew I wasn’t a favorite by rating, but I’d beaten most of the players in the field before,” she said.

Her most satisfying win came against top seed Aleksandra Goryachkina in Round 11. Vaishali played the Alapin Sicilian with precision and went on to win with a Knight underpromotion.

“I could have settled for a draw, but I was looking to take every chance that came my way,” she said. “I’m pretty proud of that game.”

Vaishali’s comeback was not without its emotional challenges. “After three losses in a row, I completely gave up,” she admitted. “But I was determined to get back in shape and fight.”

Her brother, Praggnanandhaa, provided support during her struggles. “We would discuss our games, but I didn’t want to burden him with my emotions,” Vaishali said.

On the final day of play, Vaishali and Praggnanandhaa witnessed the thrilling conclusion of the Open section. “We could feel the pressure and tension even though it wasn’t us playing,” Vaishali said. “I felt happy to see Gukesh make it in the end.”

Vaishali’s comeback story is a reminder of the importance of perseverance and resilience in competitive chess. “I may not have won the tournament, but those last few wins certainly made a huge difference,” she said.

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Dew Challenges Spinners in Chennai Super Kings' Home Matches

Dew Challenges Spinners in Chennai Super Kings’ Home Matches

By April 27, 2024 0

Chennai Super Kings’ batting coach Michael Hussey has attributed the team’s recent struggles with spin bowling to the presence of dew on the ground at their home stadium. Hussey explained that the dew makes it difficult for the spinners to grip the ball and impart spin, rendering them less effective.

“In the last few matches, the dew has been a challenge for the bowlers,” Hussey said. “Our game plan has been based around spin over many years. We have always had good spinners and spinning conditions here.”

“So, with the dew, then sometimes that takes the spinner out of the game. I mean, just the other night (against LSG), the spin bowlers were finding it very difficult to hold the ball. They couldn’t get any spin on the ball. It was just getting on nicely under the bat. So, it makes it very challenging.”

Hussey emphasized that the dew is not an excuse for the team’s poor performance, but rather a factor that they must adapt to. He believes that the team that manages to handle the dew conditions better will have an advantage.

“But again, it’s no excuse,” Hussey said. “We’ve just got to try and deal with it as best as we possibly can. It’s hopefully the same for both the teams. And the team that just manages that situation the best, can hopefully come out on top.”

Despite the challenges posed by the dew, Hussey remains confident in the team’s ability to perform well at home. He pointed out that the team still has a strong record at the stadium and that they are supported by a passionate crowd.

“Our record is still pretty good here at home,” Hussey said. “We’ve still got a great crowd that supports us. We know the conditions pretty well. It’s just that sometimes the dew factor makes it a bit more challenging.”

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CSK vs SRH: Chennai Super Kings Aim to Regain Form Against Sunrisers Hyderabad

CSK vs SRH: Chennai Super Kings Aim to Regain Form Against Sunrisers Hyderabad

By April 27, 2024 0

Chennai Super Kings Aim to Regain Form Against Sunrisers Hyderabad

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will face Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in a crucial Indian Premier League (IPL) match at the Chepauk Stadium in Chennai on Sunday. CSK, who have lost their last two matches, will be eager to regain their form at home, while SRH will be looking to bounce back from their defeat against Royal Challengers Bangalore.

CSK have a strong record against SRH, having won 14 out of their 20 encounters. However, SRH have been in impressive form this season, with their opening duo of Travis Head and Abhishek Sharma setting the stage alight.

CSK will need to find a way to counter SRH’s explosive batting lineup. They may consider introducing Moeen Ali into the attack early to stifle Head and Sharma. Deepak Chahar, who has dismissed Sharma twice in two innings, will also be key.

SRH, on the other hand, will be wary of CSK’s bowling attack, which includes the experienced Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jaydev Unadkat. They will need to get off to a good start and build a solid foundation.

The pitch at Chepauk has been conducive to high-scoring matches this season, so both teams will be looking to put up a big total. CSK will be hoping that Ajinkya Rahane, who has struggled for form this season, can find his rhythm and provide some stability at the top of the order.

SRH will be relying on Aiden Markram to anchor their innings and provide some stability in the middle order. Markram has been a quiet figure for SRH this season, but he showed his worth with a crucial fifty in the last match between these two sides.

The match promises to be a close and exciting contest, with both teams desperate for a win. CSK will be looking to regain their form at home, while SRH will be aiming to bounce back from their recent defeat.

Categories: Cricket
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Thiago Monteiro Stuns Tsitsipas, Reaches Historic Milestone

Thiago Monteiro Stuns Tsitsipas, Reaches Historic Milestone

By April 27, 2024 0

Thiago Monteiro, the 29-year-old Brazilian qualifier, has made history by reaching the third round of an ATP Masters 1000 event for the first time in his career. Inspired by the recent successes of Adrian Mannarino and Jan-Lennard Struff, Monteiro has adopted the mantra “it’s never too late” and has unlocked a new milestone in his tennis journey.

In a stunning display of serving prowess, Monteiro ousted No. 6 seed Stefanos Tsitsipas in straight sets, 6-4, 6-4. The 118th-ranked qualifier did not face a break point until he served for the match, showcasing his impeccable control and precision. Despite missing a pair of match points against Tsitsipas’ serve in the previous game, Monteiro remained composed and erased the deficit with an inside-out forehand winner.

“Here in the conditions, the serve, especially the left serve, works really well. The ball was bouncing high,” Monteiro explained to the press. “I knew I had a big challenge ahead against a top player, but I was feeling good.”

Monteiro’s victory marks his first completed Top 10 victory since defeating Holger Rune in a Davis Cup rubber in September 2023. The former world No. 61 can now break back into the Top 100 if he advances past No. 30 seed Jiri Lehecka in the third round.

“Never too late indeed. I see guys like Struff that is (34), won his first ATP (title) last week. Mannarino, 35, he had his best season of his tennis career last year,” Monteiro said. “Tennis is like this. One week can change the whole year, the whole plans that you have. You just need to keep working hard and to keep trying to enjoy it, take this opportunity when it appears.”

Tsitsipas, on the other hand, has now dropped consecutive matches after opening his European clay-court swing with 10 successive victories. The former Roland Garros runner-up captured his third Monte Carlo crown before Casper Ruud avenged that final-round defeat by turning the tables in last Sunday’s Barcelona title match.

“I had a very good opponent on the other side of the net. He was coming up with great shots and punishing me every single time I played short. Didn’t manage to get the depth of the court,” Tsitsipas assessed.

Categories: Tennis
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Kohli and Williamson: A Friendship That Transcends Rivalry

Kohli and Williamson: A Friendship That Transcends Rivalry

By April 27, 2024 0

Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson, two of the most celebrated cricketers of the modern era, share a bond that transcends the boundaries of competition. Their friendship, forged during their Under-19 World Cup days in 2008, has endured the rigors of international cricket and the intense rivalry between their respective teams.

Kohli and Williamson emerged as pivotal figures in their teams during that tournament, showcasing their exceptional talent and leadership qualities. Over the years, they have established themselves as stalwarts of the game, amassing an impressive array of accolades and inspiring countless young cricketers.

Their mutual respect and admiration for each other’s abilities have been evident throughout their careers. In interviews, they have consistently praised each other’s achievements, acknowledging their exceptional skills and leadership qualities. This camaraderie extends beyond the field, as they have often been seen interacting warmly off the pitch.

As Royal Challengers Bangalore and Gujarat Titans prepare to face off in the IPL 2024 encounter at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, the spotlight will once again shine on the friendship between Kohli and Williamson. The matchup brings a sense of nostalgia, as the two cricket icons prepare to battle it out on the field.

Despite their competitive nature, their off-field bond remains unbreakable. In a recent video shared by Gujarat Titans, Kohli and Williamson are seen greeting each other with warmth and camaraderie. This moment serves as a testament to the enduring friendship between two of the greatest cricketers of our time.

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New Zealand Choose to Bowl First in Decisive T20I Against Pakistan

New Zealand Choose to Bowl First in Decisive T20I Against Pakistan

By April 27, 2024 0

New Zealand Opt to Bowl First in Series-Deciding T20I Against Pakistan

In a crucial encounter at the Gaddafi Stadium, New Zealand have chosen to field first after winning the toss against Pakistan. The visitors, aiming to secure a 3-1 series victory, have made three changes to their lineup, two of which are enforced.

Tim Robinson, Dean Foxcroft, and Jacob Duffy have been replaced by Zakary Foulkes, Tim Seifert, and Cole McConchie. Robinson suffered a groin injury, while Foxcroft was ruled out due to a back complaint.

Pakistan, seeking to level the series, have recalled Shaheen Afridi to their side, with Zaman Khan making way. This is the final T20I Pakistan will play at home before embarking on tours to Ireland and England ahead of the T20 World Cup in June.

Pakistan Team:

1. Babar Azam (capt)
2. Saim Ayub
3. Fakhar Zaman
4. Usman Khan (wk)
5. Iftikhar Ahmed
6. Shadab Khan
7. Imad Wasim
8. Shaheen Afridi
9. Usama Mir
10. Abbas Afridi
11. Mohammad Amir

New Zealand Team:

1. Tom Blundell
2. Tim Seifert (wk)
3. Mark Chapman
4. Cole McConchie
5. Michael Bracewell (capt)
6. Josh Clarkson
7. James Neesham
8. Zakary Foulkes
9. Ish Sodhi
10. Ben Sears
11. Will O’Rourke

With the series on the line, both teams will be eager to put in a strong performance. New Zealand will look to their experienced bowlers, including Ish Sodhi and Ben Sears, to restrict Pakistan’s batting lineup. Pakistan, on the other hand, will rely on their explosive batsmen, led by Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman, to post a competitive total.

The match promises to be an exciting contest, with both teams determined to end the series on a high note.

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Naomi Osaka Senses Breakthrough on the Horizon

Naomi Osaka Senses Breakthrough on the Horizon

By April 27, 2024 0

Naomi Osaka, the former world No. 1, is brimming with optimism as she senses a breakthrough on the horizon. Following her second-round exit from the Mutua Madrid Open, Osaka took to social media to express her belief that something significant is about to happen.

“I think I’m on to something. It’s all about to click, I feel it in the air,” Osaka wrote, accompanied by a photo of herself in action at the tournament.

Osaka’s positive outlook stems from her recent performances on clay, her least-favored surface. She secured her first clay-court victory since 2022 in the opening round against Greet Minnen before falling to No. 15 seed Liudmila Samsonova in three hard-fought sets.

Despite the setback, Osaka remains determined to embrace clay courts. “There’s definitely beauty to it, and I’m taking a lot of inspiration from people who do well on it,” she said. “I’m not expecting to be like Iga [Swiatek], but I just want to do the best with what I have.”

Osaka’s recent appearance on “Good Trouble with Nick Kyrgios” also provided her with an opportunity to reflect on her past, present, and future. She expressed her desire to leave a lasting legacy and emphasized the importance of cherishing every moment.

“How bold of me to assume I’ll live long enough to fade away,” Osaka wrote. “After all, nothing in life is promised. Every day and every breath is a blessing, it should be viewed as such.”

Osaka’s focus now shifts to the upcoming Internazionali BNL d’Italia, where she will make her fifth career appearance. The four-time Grand Slam champion will be eager to build on her recent progress and continue her journey towards rediscovering her best form.

Categories: Tennis
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DC Edges Out MI in IPL Run-Fest, Fraser-McGurk Stars

DC Edges Out MI in IPL Run-Fest, Fraser-McGurk Stars

By April 27, 2024 0

In a thrilling IPL encounter at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi Capitals (DC) narrowly defeated Mumbai Indians (MI) by a margin of 14 runs. The match witnessed a run-fest, with both teams showcasing their batting prowess.

DC’s innings was ignited by a blistering knock from Jack Fraser-McGurk, who smashed 84 runs off just 27 deliveries. His innings included seven fours and six maximums, equaling his record for the fastest half-century in the IPL (15 balls). Abishek Porel provided solid support, contributing 36 runs off 27 balls as the duo put up a formidable 114-run opening partnership.

Shai Hope (41 off 17) and Tristan Stubbs (48* off 25) maintained the momentum, ensuring DC posted their highest-ever IPL total of 257/4.

Chasing a daunting target of 258, MI made a valiant effort but ultimately fell short. Tilak Varma (63 off 32) and Hardik Pandya (46 off 24) led the charge for MI, but their dismissals proved pivotal.

Rasikh Dar Salam emerged as DC’s standout bowler, claiming 3/34, while Mukesh Kumar also chipped in with three wickets (3/59). Khaleel Ahmed contributed with 2/45.

Despite the loss, MI’s performance was encouraging, with Varma and Pandya showcasing their batting prowess. The match highlighted the depth and talent within both teams, setting the stage for an exciting remainder of the IPL season.

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