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India Dominate Day 2 of Dharamsala Test with Five Half-Centuries

India Dominate Day 2 of Dharamsala Test with Five Half-Centuries

By March 8, 2024 0

The fifth and final Test match between India and England in Dharamsala witnessed a remarkable display of batting prowess from the Indian team on the second day. Five Indian batters notched up half-centuries, propelling the hosts to a commanding 255-run lead over England.

Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill set the tone with centuries, but it was Sarfaraz Khan’s aggressive knock that stole the show. In his fifth Test innings, Khan scored a blistering 56 off just 60 deliveries, including eight fours and a six. His Mumbai teammate, Suryakumar Yadav, aptly described Khan’s performance as “Sher Bhuka Hai” (The Lion is Hungry).

England attempted a comeback in the final session with some clinical bowling, but India’s resilient tail-enders held firm. Kuldeep Yadav and Jasprit Bumrah remained unbeaten on 27 and 19, respectively, as India posted a formidable total of 473/8 at the end of the day’s play.

Shoaib Bashir provided England with a glimmer of hope by dismissing Sarfaraz Khan with his off-spin, but Devdutt Padikkal responded with a maiden Test fifty, delighting the crowd with a maximum. India crossed the 400-run mark in the 91st over, but Bashir struck again to remove Padikkal.

Dhruv Jurel and Ravindra Jadeja formed a brief partnership, but Bashir and Jack Leach claimed their wickets in quick succession. However, Kuldeep and Bumrah’s unbeaten stand of 45 runs ensured that India maintained their dominance heading into the third day.

With India already leading the series 3-1, the Rohit Sharma-led side is poised to seal a 4-1 victory and complete a memorable home season.

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Worcestershire Legend Duncan Fearnley Passes Away at 83

Worcestershire Legend Duncan Fearnley Passes Away at 83

By March 8, 2024 0

Duncan Fearnley, the former Worcestershire player and administrator who became a renowned bat manufacturer, passed away at the age of 83.

Born in Pudsey, Fearnley began his cricketing journey in Yorkshire Seconds before moving to Worcestershire in 1960. As a left-handed batter, he made 97 appearances for the club over seven seasons, contributing 687 runs and four half-centuries. His most memorable achievement came in 1964 when Worcestershire won the County Championship.

After leaving the club in 1968, Fearnley returned in 1972 as the Second XI captain. By this time, his Worcester-based bat manufacturing business was flourishing. His bats were highly sought after by some of the greatest players of the era, including Sunil Gavaskar, Ian Botham, Graham Gooch, and Allan Border.

In 1986, Fearnley was appointed as Worcestershire’s chair. During his tenure, the club experienced a golden era, winning two County Championship titles, two Sunday League titles, the Refuge Assurance Cup, the Benson and Hedges Cup, and the NatWest Trophy within a span of twelve years.

Fearnley’s contributions extended beyond his role as chair. He served as Club President from 2011 to 2013 and was later elected as an Honorary Vice-President. His passion for Worcestershire CCC was evident in all his endeavors.

“Duncan’s passing is a tremendous loss,” said Paul Pridgeon, Worcestershire’s acting chair. “His contributions as a player, an administrator, and a passionate supporter of the club were immeasurable. He was the heart and soul of Worcestershire CCC, leaving an indelible mark on the club.”

Fearnley’s legacy as a bat-maker and his unwavering love for Worcestershire will be forever remembered. The cricketing world has lost a true legend.

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Oliver Bearman to Make Historic Ferrari Debut in Saudi Arabia

Oliver Bearman to Make Historic Ferrari Debut in Saudi Arabia

By March 8, 2024 0

Oliver Bearman, a rising star in the world of Formula One, is poised to make history as he prepares to debut for Ferrari at the Saudi Arabia Grand Prix. The 18-year-old British driver will replace Carlos Sainz, who has been ruled out due to appendicitis.

Bearman’s debut will mark a significant milestone, making him the youngest driver to participate in a Formula One race since Max Verstappen and Lance Stroll. The young prodigy has already demonstrated his exceptional talent, securing pole position in the F2 race at the Saudi Arabia circuit.

Born in Essex, England, Bearman began his racing journey in karting at the tender age of seven. His remarkable success at the karting level, including multiple championship victories, paved the way for his debut in F4 in 2020.

In 2021, Bearman’s dominance continued as he triumphed in both the German and Italian F4 championships. His impressive performances caught the attention of Ferrari, who offered him a position in their prestigious driver academy.

In his maiden season in Formula 3, Bearman narrowly missed out on the title, finishing third. He then progressed to Formula 2 in 2023, where he showcased his speed and consistency, winning four races and securing two additional podium finishes.

Bearman’s impressive performances earned him a promotion to reserve driver for Ferrari ahead of the 2024 season. Now, he is set to become the youngest driver in the history of the legendary Italian team.

Bearman’s debut at the Saudi Arabia Grand Prix will be a testament to his exceptional talent and the unwavering support of Ferrari. The young driver will face a formidable challenge, but his determination and unwavering focus will undoubtedly make him a force to be reckoned with on the Formula One grid.

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Taste of Tennis Returns to Indian Wells with Style and Delicacies

Taste of Tennis Returns to Indian Wells with Style and Delicacies

By March 8, 2024 0

Taste of Tennis, a highly anticipated social event in the tennis world, made its grand return to Indian Wells this week. Hosted at the Hyatt Indian Wells Resort and Spa, the evening showcased a delectable culinary experience and a parade of stylish attire.

Tennis stars graced the event, including Paula Badosa, Stefanos Tsitsipas, Qinwen Zheng, and Alexander Zverev. As they posed for the cameras, their fashion choices sparked conversations on social media. Badosa opted for an elegant all-white ensemble, complete with a Christian Dior bag adorned with butterflies and constellations. Zheng, Zverev, and Jakub Mensik also embraced the neutral palette with their cream-colored outfits.

In contrast, Holger Rune and Liudmilla Samsonova opted for warmth and comfort, donning black puffer jackets. Bethanie Mattek-Sands, known for her bold fashion statements, turned heads with her Bottega Venetta bag in vibrant orange shearling. Tsitsipas added a touch of tennis flair with a shirt featuring a tropical tennis scene.

Beyond the fashion, the evening offered a culinary extravaganza. Guests savored tuna crudo, ember-roasted purple yam, coconut ceviche, and shawarma-spiced lamb. The event also had a charitable component, with a commemorative painting auctioned for $5,000 to benefit Shay’s Warriors, a cancer survivorship support organization.

Taste of Tennis will continue its culinary and fashion journey at the Miami Open presented by Itau on March 18 at the JW Marriott Miami.

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Shoaib Bashir's Resilience Earns Praise from England Spin Coach

Shoaib Bashir’s Resilience Earns Praise from England Spin Coach

By March 8, 2024 0

England’s spin coach, Jeetan Patel, has hailed the resilience and skill of Shoaib Bashir after the young spinner overcame illness to claim four first-innings wickets in the fifth Test against India. Bashir’s performance, despite being under the weather, has earned him Patel’s admiration and a promise of continued support in his career progression.

Bashir, along with Ollie Robinson, had missed the final training session before the Test due to illness. However, he showed remarkable determination to bowl 44 overs in India’s first innings, adding to the 70 overs he bowled in the previous Test. Despite a cut on his spinning finger, Bashir remained relentless, nearly claiming a five-wicket haul.

Patel praised Bashir’s efforts, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and hard work. He also commended the entire England bowling attack for their resilience in taking seven wickets on the second day. “It’s a hell of an effort,” Patel said of Bashir’s role. “He’s put in a hell of a shift for us.”

Patel’s optimistic approach to adversity has been a hallmark of the Ben Stokes-Brendon McCullum era. Despite India’s lead, Patel believes England can still fight back. “We’re going to have tough days in Test cricket,” he said. “And today was one of them. If you put enough hard yards in, eventually the circle turns and it comes back on you.”

Patel’s mentorship of Bashir and other young spinners is crucial for England’s future. He plans to continue supporting them even after the current tour. “My work continues when they are not with England,” he said. “I am not the sort of bloke who is going to leave them in the lurch.”

Bashir’s meteoric rise from obscurity has raised questions about his future playing time. Patel acknowledged that Bashir and Hartley may face limited opportunities in the coming weeks, but he believes they have something to offer England. “They have something to offer England, but we want to keep pushing that and advancing their learning,” he said.

Patel’s praise for Bashir’s development highlights the young spinner’s potential. “The spin he can access, over spin, side spin … he’s got some overs to bowl yet, he’s going to have to keep learning,” Patel said. “But what he’s done in his three Tests here has certainly shown that.”

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Gavaskar Slams Sarfaraz Khan's Shot Selection, Triggers Indian Collapse

Gavaskar Slams Sarfaraz Khan’s Shot Selection, Triggers Indian Collapse

By March 8, 2024 0

Sunil Gavaskar Slams Sarfaraz Khan’s Shot Selection, Triggers Indian Collapse

Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar has expressed his disappointment with the shot selection of young Sarfaraz Khan, which ultimately led to his dismissal on the first ball after tea during the second day of the fifth and final Test against England in Dharamsala.

Sarfaraz, who was well settled at 56 and had forged a promising 97-run partnership with debutant Devdutt Padikkal, squandered a golden opportunity to transform his innings into a potential century. Unfortunately, his innings concluded in a somewhat anti-climactic fashion when a late cut, executed on the first ball after tea, led to his dismissal. He was caught at slip off Shoaib Bashir.

Gavaskar couldn’t stop himself from reacting as he instantly recalled cricketing great Sir Don Bradman’s million-dollar advice on never to get complacent even if you are batting on 200. “The ball was pitched up; it wasn’t short enough for that shot. Goes for it and pays the price. I mean you are playing the first ball after tea. Give yourself a little sighter. Don Bradman said to me ‘Every ball that I face, even if I am on 200, I think I am on 0.’ And here is [Sarfaraz] is… playing such a shot first ball of the session,” Gavaskar shared his opinion during the commentary.

Sarfaraz’s dismissal proved to be a turning point as it triggered a collapse for India. From a position of strength at 376/3, the team stumbled to 428/8, losing quick five wickets in a span of 54 runs, allowing England to make a significant comeback.

Both Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill struck their second hundred of the series to fetch India a handy first innings lead. Each of India’s top five batters, including debutant Devdutt Padikkal, managed 50-plus scores to power the hosts to a commanding 473-8 for a lead of 255.

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Sachin Tendulkar Hails Kane Williamson, Tim Southee as 'Torchbearers' of New Zealand Cricket

Sachin Tendulkar Hails Kane Williamson, Tim Southee as ‘Torchbearers’ of New Zealand Cricket

By March 8, 2024 0

Cricket legends Sachin Tendulkar has hailed Kane Williamson and Tim Southee as the “torchbearers” of New Zealand cricket after the Kiwi duo reached the milestone of playing 100 Test matches. Tendulkar, in a social media post, noted that it was “fitting” that both Williamson and Southee played their 100th Test match together, 16 years after they played in the 2008 U19 World Cup.

Southee and Williamson became just the fifth and sixth Black Caps players to reach the milestone of 100 Test matches. The two Blackcaps veterans were teammates at the ICC Men’s U19 Cricket World Cup in 2008, where the team reached the semi-finals before losing to eventual champions, India.

Southee had already made his senior international debut a few weeks before the U19 World Cup, in the T20I format. He would go on to make his Test debut within a year. Williamson, on the other hand, had to wait until 2010 to make his Test debut, but since made rapid strides across formats to evolve into one of New Zealand’s greatest-ever batters.

Williamson has 8675 runs in Tests, well ahead of Ross Taylor, the next best for New Zealand, and averages 55.25 in the format. No other active player has more Test hundreds than Williamson’s 32. Southee, meanwhile, has 378 Test wickets and is just over 50 wickets away from eclipsing Richard Hadlee’s tally for most Test wickets by a Kiwi bowler.

Tendulkar, in his social media post, praised Williamson and Southee for their contributions to New Zealand cricket. “Kane Williamson and Tim Southee have been the torchbearers of New Zealand cricket ever since they burst onto the scene at the 2008 U-19 World Cup,” Tendulkar wrote. “It is only fitting that they also play their 100th Test match together around 16 years later. All the very best to them for their landmark match against familiar foes Australia.”

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Kent to Bid for Professional Women's Cricket Team in England's Top Tier

Kent to Bid for Professional Women’s Cricket Team in England’s Top Tier

By March 8, 2024 0

Kent County Cricket Club has announced its intention to bid for one of eight professional women’s teams in England’s top domestic competition, set to launch in 2025. This move marks a departure from the current South East Stars regional side, which has represented Kent and Surrey in recent years.

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has invited first-class counties to tender for Tier 1 women’s professional clubs, aiming to align teams more closely with existing counties and their men’s teams. This restructuring aims to address the identity crisis faced by some regional teams and expand marketing opportunities for the domestic women’s game.

Kent Women’s Captain Megan Belt expressed her excitement about the prospect of a professional team in Kent. She emphasized the transformative impact it would have on training, practice, and support staff, which would significantly enhance the team’s competitiveness.

Kent Women have a rich history of success, having won 10 league championships and five T20 titles. They last won the Women’s County Championship in 2019. The club has produced several international representatives, including Tammy Beaumont, Tash Farrant, Alice Davidson-Richards, and Lydia Greenway.

Kent’s Director of Cricket, Simon Cook, highlighted the club’s commitment to providing a professional future for aspiring female cricketers. He believes that a professional Kent Women side would continue to produce England players through the club’s talent identification and training programs.

The ECB is expected to announce the successful bids later this year. If Kent’s bid is successful, the county will join the ranks of professional women’s cricket teams in England, competing against the best domestic sides for silverware.

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Bangladesh Prepares for T20 World Cup with Focus on Unknown Pitches

Bangladesh Prepares for T20 World Cup with Focus on Unknown Pitches

By March 8, 2024 0

With the 2024 T20 World Cup approaching, Bangladesh head coach Chandika Hathurusinghe is meticulously gathering information about the pitches in the USA and Caribbean, particularly in Dallas. The team will also play in New York and Kingstown, where they have limited knowledge of the playing conditions.

To prepare for the tournament, Bangladesh has been playing on batting-friendly surfaces in Sylhet during the ongoing T20I series against Sri Lanka. Hathurusinghe expects the New York venue to have drop-in pitches similar to those in Adelaide, but there is uncertainty about the conditions in Dallas and Kingstown.

“We are looking at a combination for the World Cup, [especially] how the individuals are fitting in and understanding the game plan and be comfortable with that,” Hathurusinghe said. “We wanted to play on good wickets here. We don’t know about the wickets in America. We play two important games in America. Nobody has any clue [about the pitches]. There’s not much data behind it.”

Hathurusinghe emphasized the need for bowlers to adapt to the expected batting-friendly pitches. In the ongoing series, Sri Lanka scored over 200 runs in the first T20I, but Bangladesh’s bowlers have shown improvement in the second game.

“We know what we can do. We are continually working on [death bowling]. We are playing on different kinds of pitches now. There’s more grass and carry,” Hathurusinghe said. “We wanted to play on wickets that are conducive for high scoring, to get us to understand what areas we need to improve in bowling.”

Bangladesh’s batting has also been impressive, with Soumya Sarkar contributing despite his tendency to get out after getting starts. The Sarkar-Litton Das opening pairing has been Bangladesh’s 16th in T20Is since the start of 2022.

“We were 63 [68] for no loss. You don’t see how many hundreds you made in T20s. As long as they are playing for the team, that’s what we want,” Hathurusinghe said. “[Sarkar] is contributing at the moment. He got [Kusal] Mendis’ wicket. He was crucial for them in both games. [Litton and Sarkar] put their hands up after the first game, [saying that] their approach was wrong. They owned it, and went and played really good cricket.”

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IPL Transforms Cricket Landscape, Fosters Talent and Enhances Competitiveness

IPL Transforms Cricket Landscape, Fosters Talent and Enhances Competitiveness

By March 8, 2024 0

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has revolutionized the cricketing landscape, not only fostering talent identification but also enhancing the competitiveness of all three formats of the game, according to league chairman Arun Dhumal.

Since its inception in 2008, the IPL has witnessed an explosion in T20 cricket’s popularity. Players like Jasprit Bumrah, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Rinku Singh have earned India caps after impressive performances in the lucrative league.

“The IPL has been phenomenal in identifying new talent,” Dhumal said. “Every season, we see highly skilled youngsters like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rinku Singh emerge. They have gone on to represent India, demonstrating the IPL’s significance in nurturing young talent.”

The IPL has become the world’s second-richest sports league in terms of per-match value, trailing only the NFL. Dhumal believes the league has positively impacted Test and ODI cricket as well.

“The IPL has become the second most important league globally in the past 15 years,” Dhumal said. “It has significantly altered cricket. We have seen more results in Test matches and increased competitiveness in ODIs.”

“Two decades ago, 250-300 runs were considered a good score in ODIs. Now, we regularly witness scores of 400. The T20 format and the IPL have played a crucial role in this evolution,” he added.

The upcoming IPL season will commence on March 22 and will be held entirely in India despite the coinciding general elections. The schedule will be finalized once the election dates are announced.

“We have released the schedule for the first two weeks,” Dhumal said. “We are awaiting the election commission’s announcement. We will adjust the schedule accordingly and hope to host a significant number of matches in Dharamshala.”

The final Test of the India-England series is currently underway in Ahmedabad. It marks a milestone for Ravichandran Ashwin and Jonny Bairstow, who are playing their 100th Tests.

“This Test is historic,” Dhumal said. “It’s Ashwin’s 100th, Bairstow’s 100th, and Anderson is likely to take his 700th wicket. It also coincides with the anniversary of Sunil Gavaskar scoring 10,000 runs.”

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