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Former Indian Players Pick T20 World Cup Squads with Surprises

By Nilay April 24, 2024 0

The Indian cricket team is gearing up for the upcoming T20 World Cup, scheduled to be held in the USA and West Indies from June 2 to 29. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is expected to announce the squad before the end of this month.

Former Indian players have been weighing in on the potential squad, with some surprising omissions and inclusions. Former all-rounder Irfan Pathan has included Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya in his squad, but only if he is bowling regularly. Pathan emphasized that Pandya’s batting prowess is undeniable, but his bowling effectiveness is equally important.

Pathan’s squad also features under-fire Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya, but on one condition. Pathan emphasized that Pandya’s inclusion depends on his bowling fitness, given his undeniable batting prowess. However, the effectiveness of his bowling holds equal significance; if he isn’t consistently and effectively bowling, the team’s composition warrants a reassessment.

“My squad for the World Cup. 1) Rohit Sharma (C)2) Yashasvi Jaiswal 3) Virat Kohli4) Surya Kumar Yadav 5) Rishabh pant (wk)6) Shivam Dube7) Hardik Pandya provided he is bowling regularly8)Rinku singh 9)Ravindra jadeja10) Kuldeep Yadav 11)Jasprit Bumrah 12)Arshdeep singh 13)Mohammed Siraj 14)Ravi Bishnoi/Yuzi chahal 15) shubhman gill/ sanju Samson Travelling reserves. 2 Fast bowlers, wicket keeper, batsman.” Pathan posted his squad on X.— IrfanPathan (@IrfanPathan)

Former India batsman Ambati Rayudu, who is among the Star Sports experts panel, also picked his Team India squad for the T20 World Cup. Surprisingly, Rayudu’s squad includes only one allrounder in the form of Ravindra Jadeja, while also featuring young pace sensation Mayank Yadav, who is nursing an injury.

For the middle-order batting slots up for grabs, Rayudu went ahead with the in-form players Riyan Parag and Shivam Dube, while preferring veteran Dinesh Karthik over Rishabh Pant in the wicketkeeper-batsman’s role. He also ignored KL Rahul, who has been doing well for Lucknow Super Giants in the role of ‘keeper-batsman.

Ambati Rayudu’s India squad for T20 World Cup: Rohit Sharma (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Riyan Parag, Rinku Singh, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh, Mayank Yadav

Categories: Cricket

Sehwag’s Blunt Remarks: ‘Indian Players Don’t Need to Play in Poor Leagues’

By Nilay April 24, 2024 0

Virender Sehwag, the former Indian cricket opener, is renowned for his witty remarks and humorous takes on various topics. His humor often shines through on social media, where he engages with fans and followers with light-hearted banter. Sehwag’s commentary, whether on cricket or everyday observations, is filled with laughter and puns. He has a knack for making people smile with his straightforward and playful language.

During a recent appearance on the Club Prairie Podcast alongside former Australian wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist, Sehwag once again hogged the limelight for his blunt remarks. When asked if he foresaw a time when Indian players would participate in other T20 leagues, Sehwag responded with a touch of lighthearted overstatement, “No, we don’t need to. We are rich people, we don’t go to poor countries for other leagues.”

Sehwag also recounted a moment when he turned down an offer from the Big Bash League due to the offered amount being insufficient. “I still remember when I was dropped from the Indian team and I was playing IPL. Then I got an offer from BBL that I should participate in the Big Bash, I said okay how much money, they said $100,000.” “I said I can spend that money in my holidays, even last night’s bill was more than that,” the 45-year-old jokingly revealed.

Sehwag’s remarks have sparked a debate on social media, with some fans applauding his honesty and others criticizing his dismissiveness of other T20 leagues. However, one thing is for sure: Sehwag’s wit and humor continue to entertain and engage cricket enthusiasts around the world.

Categories: Cricket

Zimbabwe Women Aim to Break World Cup Drought in Abu Dhabi Qualifier

By Nilay April 24, 2024 0

Josephine Nkomo’s heart sank as she watched her Zimbabwean team fall just four runs short of victory in the 2023 T20 World Cup Qualifier semi-final against Ireland. The defeat crushed their hopes of a first World Cup appearance, leaving Nkomo shattered.

Now, Zimbabwe has a chance to redeem themselves in the 2024 T20 World Cup Qualifier in Abu Dhabi. Nkomo and her teammates are determined to avoid the heartbreak of 2022 and secure a spot in the World Cup.

Zimbabwe’s recent victory at the Africa Games, where they defeated South Africa in a Super Over, has boosted their confidence. Nkomo, who hit the winning runs, has embraced a leadership role in crunch moments.

Her experience playing club cricket in Australia and England has enhanced her game awareness. Nkomo credits Elyse Villani, her former teammate, for sharing valuable knowledge and insights.

Zimbabwe’s women’s team recognizes the importance of their role in keeping cricket relevant in their country. With the men’s team failing to qualify for a World Cup, the women’s team has the opportunity to showcase their talent on a global stage.

Nkomo believes that qualifying for the World Cup would be a life-changing experience for the team. It would provide them with a platform to inspire young girls and demonstrate the strength of Zimbabwean cricket.

Categories: Cricket

David Warner’s Aadhaar Card Teasing Adds to Delhi Capitals’ IPL Entertainment

By Nilay April 24, 2024 0

David Warner, the beloved Australian opener for the Delhi Capitals, has become a fan favorite in the Indian Premier League (IPL) over the years. His exceptional batting skills and entertaining social media presence have endeared him to fans across the country.

In a recent video shared by the Delhi Capitals on social media, Warner was teased about obtaining an Aadhaar Card, India’s national identity card. The video featured Warner answering questions in Hindi, adding to the amusement of fans.

Despite his popularity, the Delhi Capitals have struggled in the ongoing IPL season, losing five of their eight matches. Warner acknowledges the need for improvement, stating, “We’re not where we want to be for the team’s sake. We’d like to win a few more games.”

Warner believes the team needs to minimize totals and put up big scores when batting first. He also highlights the strength of the bowling attack, which bowled out the Gujarat Titans for 89 in their first leg match.

“We know when we take wickets up front and early, we’re a very dangerous bowling attack,” Warner said.

Warner praised two young players who have impressed him this season: Jake Fraser-McGurk and Abishek Porel. He said, “Jake’s been very good. We know he’s always had the talent. Abishek Porel has been outstanding as well.”

With the IPL season nearing its end, the Delhi Capitals will need to turn things around quickly to secure a spot in the playoffs. Warner’s leadership and experience will be crucial in guiding the team towards success.

Categories: Cricket

Shubman Gill Set for 100th IPL Match, Aiming for Gujarat Titans Victory

By Nilay April 24, 2024 0

Shubman Gill, the prodigious Indian batter, is set to reach a significant milestone in his illustrious IPL career as he prepares to play his 100th match in the lucrative tournament. The Gujarat Titans skipper will lead his team against the Delhi Capitals at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Wednesday, marking a testament to his remarkable journey in the IPL.

Gill’s IPL debut came with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in 2018, following his impressive performance at the ICC U19 World Cup. Since then, he has established himself as one of the most consistent and promising batters in the league. In 99 matches, Gill has amassed 3,088 runs at an average of 38.12 and a strike rate of 138.12, including three centuries and 20 fifties. His highest score of 129 ranks him among the league’s top run-scorers.

Gill’s tenure with KKR played a pivotal role in his development as a cricketer. He received consistent support from the franchise, which allowed him to showcase his talent. In his first season, he played 13 games and scored 203 runs at an average of 33.83. His breakthrough came in KKR’s remarkable 2021 campaign, where he emerged as the team’s leading run-scorer with 478 runs in 17 matches.

Gill’s performances in the elimination stages were particularly impressive. He played a crucial role in KKR’s victory over Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Eliminator, scoring a quickfire 29 off 18 balls. In the Qualifier 2 against Delhi Capitals and the final against Chennai Super Kings, he demonstrated his big-match temperament with scores of 46 and 51, respectively.

In 2022, Gill joined the Gujarat Titans, who went on to win the championship in their inaugural season. Gill played a key role in their success, finishing as the team’s second-highest run-scorer with 483 runs in 16 games. He scored four half-centuries, including a match-winning 45* in the final against Rajasthan Royals.

The 2023 season has witnessed Gill’s game reach new heights. He has been in scintillating form, amassing 298 runs in eight matches at an average of 42.57 and a strike rate of 146.80. His two fifties include a top score of 89*.

Gill’s impressive IPL career has earned him numerous accolades. He won the Orange Cap for being the tournament’s leading run-scorer in 2022 and was named Player of the Tournament for his outstanding performances. At the age of 24, he has already captained Gujarat Titans to victory, adding another feather to his cap.

As Gill prepares for his 100th IPL match, he stands as a testament to the talent and dedication that has made him one of the most exciting young batters in the world. His journey in the IPL has been marked by consistent performances, pivotal victories, and a remarkable rise to the top. With his leadership and batting prowess, Gill is poised to continue making a significant impact on the tournament and Indian cricket for years to come.

Categories: Cricket

Delhi Capitals and Gujarat Titans Set for Thrilling IPL 2024 Clash

By Nilay April 24, 2024 0

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 is heating up, and the upcoming match between Delhi Capitals (DC) and Gujarat Titans (GT) promises to be a thrilling encounter. Both teams are eager to improve their standings on the points table, and they will field strong lineups for this crucial clash.

Delhi Capitals Predicted XI:

* Prithvi Shaw: The DC opener has been in good form, scoring 174 runs in six matches.
* David Warner: The Australian opener will look to bounce back from a disappointing performance in the previous match.
* Jake Fraser-McGurk: The young Australian has emerged as a standout performer for DC, scoring 140 runs in three matches.
* Abishek Porel: The promising Indian batter has scored 148 runs in eight matches.
* Tristan Stubbs: The South African has been a consistent performer for DC, scoring 199 runs in seven innings.
* Rishabh Pant (captain and wicketkeeper): The DC captain has been in scintillating form, scoring 254 runs in eight innings.
* Lalit Yadav: The Indian all-rounder will need to step up his performance.
* Axar Patel: The Indian all-rounder has been effective with the ball, taking six wickets in eight matches.
* Anrich Nortje: The South African pacer will play a crucial role in DC’s fast-bowling lineup.
* Kuldeep Yadav: The Indian spinner has been in excellent form, taking 10 wickets in five matches.
* Khaleel Ahmed: The Indian fast bowler has captured 10 wickets in eight matches.

Gujarat Titans Predicted XI:

* Wriddhiman Saha (wicketkeeper): The Indian wicketkeeper-batter will look to convert his starts into substantial scores.
* Shubman Gill (captain): The GT skipper has been in impressive form, scoring 298 runs in eight matches.
* Sai Sudharsan: The Indian batter will strengthen the GT top order.
* David Miller: The South African batter can strike big hits and will be a threat to DC.
* Azmatullah Omarzai: The Afghan all-rounder can contribute with both bat and ball.
* Rahul Tewatia: The Indian batter adds stability to the GT middle-order.
* Shahrukh Khan: The Indian batter can be a destructive force if he finds form.
* Rashid Khan: The Afghan spin maestro will be a key player for GT.
* Sai Kishore: The Indian spinner has been in excellent form, taking six wickets in three matches.
* Noor Ahmad: The Afghan spinner will play a crucial role in GT’s spin bowling attack.
* Mohit Sharma: The Indian pacer has led GT’s pace attack, taking 10 wickets in eight matches.

With both teams boasting strong lineups, the match promises to be a close and exciting contest. The outcome could have a significant impact on the standings, and both DC and GT will be determined to secure a victory.

Categories: Cricket

DC vs GT Fantasy XI Predictions: Sai Sudharsan, Axar Patel Lead the Charge

By Nilay April 24, 2024 0

Delhi Capitals vs Gujarat Titans: Fantasy XI Predictions and Match Analysis

Delhi Capitals and Gujarat Titans, two formidable teams in the Indian Premier League (IPL), are set to face off in a crucial encounter at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. Both teams have played eight matches so far, with Delhi Capitals currently ranked eighth and Gujarat Titans sixth on the points table.

Pitch Conditions:

The pitch at the Arun Jaitley Stadium is known for its balance, with an average first innings score of 157 runs in the last 20 matches. The team batting first has won only 26% of matches at this venue, suggesting that the toss-winning captain may opt to bowl first.

Pace vs Spin:

The pitch is suitable for both pacers and spinners, providing opportunities for both types of bowlers to make an impact.

Weather Forecast:

The weather forecast predicts a temperature of around 37.15 degrees Celsius, humidity of 9%, and winds of 3.24 m/s. These conditions are expected to favor both batters and bowlers.

Head-to-Head Record:

In the four previous encounters between these two teams, bowlers have consistently earned the most fantasy points. In their most recent meeting, Rishabh Pant was named Man of the Match, while Mukesh Kumar and Rashid Khan topped the fantasy points leaderboard for Delhi Capitals and Gujarat Titans, respectively.

Fantasy XI Predictions:

Top Captain and Vice-Captain Picks:

* Sai Sudharsan: A consistent top-order batter with an average of 40 match fantasy points in the last 10 games.
* Axar Patel: An all-rounder who provides both batting and bowling fantasy points, with an average of 33 match fantasy points in the last 10 games.

Other Key Players:

* Tristan Stubbs: A wicket-keeper batter with an average of 51 match fantasy points in the last 10 games.
* Mohit Sharma: A right-arm medium pacer with a good record against Gujarat Titans.
* Sai Kishore: A slow left-arm orthodox bowler who has been successful at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.
* Shahrukh Khan: An all-rounder who can contribute with both bat and ball.
* Jake Fraser-McGurk: A top-order batter who can be a differential pick.
* Khaleel Ahmed: A left-arm medium pacer with a good record against Gujarat Titans.
* Azmatullah Omarzai: A top-order batter who can also bowl right-arm medium fast.

Fantasy XI Team:

* Wicket-Keeper: Wriddhiman Saha
* Batters: Sai Sudharsan, Vijay Shankar
* All-Rounders: Shahrukh Khan, Azmatullah Omarzai, Axar Patel, Rahul Tewatia
* Bowlers: Mohit Sharma, Sai Kishore, Rashid Khan, Spencer Johnson
* Captain: Sai Kishore
* Vice-Captain: Axar Patel

Conclusion:

The match between Delhi Capitals and Gujarat Titans promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams looking to secure a crucial victory. The fantasy XI predictions provided above can help you build a strong team and maximize your chances of success in fantasy cricket contests.

Categories: Cricket

Kevin Pietersen’s Switch-Hit: Innovation and Controversy in Cricket

By Nilay April 24, 2024 0

Kevin Pietersen, the former England batsman renowned for his innovative batting style, has brought the switch-hit shot to the forefront of cricket. This unconventional stroke involves a right-handed batsman changing their stance to become a left-handed batsman (or vice versa) just before the ball is delivered.

Pietersen popularized the switch-hit during his international career, using it effectively against spinners and sometimes even fast bowlers. The shot allowed him to manipulate field settings and score runs in areas where fielders were not positioned.

Despite its effectiveness, the switch-hit sparked debates about its fairness and legality. Traditional notions of batting and field placements were challenged, leading to discussions about whether the shot should be allowed. However, the MCC declared the shot legitimate in 2008.

Pietersen’s switch-hit was a reflection of his innovative approach to batting. He often caught bowlers and fielders off guard, adding a unique flair to his batting repertoire.

Now in India for commentary in the Indian Premier League (IPL), Pietersen shared a video on his Instagram handle playing a switch-hit on the streets of Delhi. The video showcases his continued love for the shot and its ability to surprise and entertain.

Delhi’s Arun Jaitley Stadium is set to host the IPL match between Delhi Capitals and Gujarat Titans on Wednesday evening. Pietersen’s presence in the commentary box will undoubtedly add to the excitement of the match, as fans eagerly anticipate the possibility of witnessing another switch-hit from the master himself.

Categories: Cricket

Kohli’s Orange Cap Glory Overshadowed by RCB’s Struggles

By Nilay April 24, 2024 0

Virat Kohli’s impressive run-scoring form in IPL 2024 has earned him the Orange Cap, but his team, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), has struggled to win matches. While Kohli’s individual performance is commendable, it raises questions about the true measure of his contribution to RCB’s success.

In the modern era of T20 cricket, the ability to provide impactful knocks at a reasonable strike rate is crucial for winning matches. Kohli’s strike rate of 150.39 this season is higher than his overall IPL strike rate of 130.63, but it remains a concern.

Despite Kohli’s three 50-plus scores in IPL 2024, RCB has lost two of those matches. His unbeaten knocks of 83 and 113 against Kolkata and Rajasthan, respectively, led to reasonable totals, but the bowlers failed to defend them.

RCB’s struggles highlight the need for a more holistic approach to batting in T20 cricket. While Kohli has anchored the team’s batting unit, his knocks have not been enough to secure victories.

Kohli’s contribution to RCB’s wins over the years has been significant, but it is important to recognize that cricket is a team sport. RCB’s lack of success cannot be solely attributed to Kohli, but his role as the team’s poster boy and constant presence since its inception in 2008 raises questions about his impact on the team’s overall performance.

The fast-paced nature of T20 cricket demands more from batters than just run accumulation. Strike rates have become increasingly important, and Kohli’s 67-ball hundred against Rajasthan Royals this season was the slowest in IPL history.

As RCB enters the final stretch of IPL 2024, Kohli must recognize the need to go beyond run accumulation and boast good averages. His contribution to the team must include a higher strike rate and the ability to provide match-winning knocks.

Categories: Cricket

Jonathan Campbell Set for Zimbabwe Debut in Bangladesh T20I Series

By Nilay April 24, 2024 0

Jonathan Campbell, the son of former Zimbabwe captain Alistair Campbell, is poised to make his international debut in the upcoming five-match T20I series against Bangladesh, commencing on May 3. The 26-year-old all-rounder, who bowls legspin, was a key member of Zimbabwe’s emerging team that triumphed at the 13th African Games in March 2024.

Campbell’s impressive performance at the African Games included 115 runs from four innings at a strike rate of 126.37. While he was not required to bowl extensively, he did claim a wicket in his two overs. Two of Campbell’s teammates from the African Games, Clive Madande and Brian Bennett, have already represented Zimbabwe at the senior level and have retained their places for this tour.

Sikandar Raza will continue to lead the Zimbabwean squad, which boasts experienced players such as Craig Ervine, Sean Williams, Richard Ngarava, and Blessing Muzarabani. Top-order batter Tadiwanashe Marumani and all-rounder Faraz Akram have been recalled to the side after missing the T20Is in Sri Lanka, which Zimbabwe lost 1-2.

The series against Bangladesh will commence in Chattogram, which will host the first three games on May 3, 5, and 7. The final two matches will be played in Dhaka on May 10 and 12.

Categories: Cricket

Former Indian Players Pick T20 World Cup Squads with Surprises

Sehwag’s Blunt Remarks: ‘Indian Players Don’t Need to Play in Poor Leagues’

Zimbabwe Women Aim to Break World Cup Drought in Abu Dhabi Qualifier

David Warner’s Aadhaar Card Teasing Adds to Delhi Capitals’ IPL Entertainment

Shubman Gill Set for 100th IPL Match, Aiming for Gujarat Titans Victory

Delhi Capitals and Gujarat Titans Set for Thrilling IPL 2024 Clash

DC vs GT Fantasy XI Predictions: Sai Sudharsan, Axar Patel Lead the Charge

Kevin Pietersen’s Switch-Hit: Innovation and Controversy in Cricket

Kohli’s Orange Cap Glory Overshadowed by RCB’s Struggles

Jonathan Campbell Set for Zimbabwe Debut in Bangladesh T20I Series

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