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CA Green and CA Gold Draw Thrilling Red-Ball Encounter

By Nilay March 7, 2024 0

In a thrilling red-ball encounter in Adelaide, CA Green and CA Gold played out a captivating draw, with the bowlers taking center stage on the final day.

After CA Green declared their first innings at 355 for 3, thanks to a magnificent double century from Georgia Voll, CA Gold responded with a formidable 350 for 4 declared. Emma de Broughe and Nicole Faltum both notched up centuries for Gold.

In the second innings, CA Green posted 259, with Alana King and Heather Graham combining to take seven wickets and put their side in a strong position. King’s 4-52 and Graham’s 3-38 proved crucial in restricting Gold’s chase.

However, de Broughe’s unbeaten 86* kept Gold in the hunt, as they reached 173 for 7 at the close of play. The match ended in a draw, with CA Green unable to force a victory despite their impressive bowling performance.

Voll’s double century was a testament to her exceptional batting skills, while de Broughe’s consistent performances throughout the match highlighted her status as one of Australia’s most promising young players.

The match provided valuable red-ball experience for both teams, as they prepare for the upcoming domestic season. The bowlers’ ability to make an impact on the final day demonstrated the importance of all-round skills in the longer format of the game.

Categories: Cricket

Shubman Gill Praises Ashwin’s Influence, Reflects on India’s Resilience

By Nilay March 7, 2024 0

Ravichandran Ashwin’s 100th Test match marked a significant milestone in Indian cricket history. As the veteran spinner took to the field, his influence on the team and the ongoing series against England became a topic of discussion.

Shubman Gill, India’s promising top-order batter, shared his insights on Ashwin’s impact. He praised Ashwin’s relentless pursuit of improvement, noting that the spinner is always seeking to add new skills to his game. Gill highlighted Ashwin’s dedication to his craft as a key factor in his success.

Reflecting on India’s performance in the series, Gill expressed optimism about the team’s resilience. He pointed out that despite facing challenges in each of the four matches, the team has shown the ability to bounce back. Gill attributed this resilience to the team’s strong bond and determination.

Gill also discussed his own learnings from the series. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a calm demeanor under pressure, even in crucial situations. He shared that his heartbeat remained normal when he went into bat, despite the team losing wickets.

Regarding his position in the batting order, Gill expressed confidence in his abilities regardless of where he bats. He acknowledged that his move back to opening the innings was a result of his lack of runs at No. 3. However, he emphasized that his focus remains on contributing to the team’s success.

Gill also shed light on the camaraderie among the teammates, highlighting the strong bond they share off the field. He believes that this positive atmosphere contributes to the team’s success.

As he looks ahead, Gill remains focused on continuous improvement. He is optimistic about the future and believes that the team will continue to grow and achieve success.

Categories: Cricket

Ravichandran Ashwin Celebrates 100th Test, Extols Virtues of Test Cricket

By Nilay March 7, 2024 0

Ravichandran Ashwin, the veteran Indian off-spinner, reached a significant milestone in his illustrious career as he played his 100th Test match against England in Edgbaston. The occasion was marked by an emotional speech from Ashwin, who expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to represent his country and shared his thoughts on the importance of Test cricket.

Ashwin’s speech was a testament to his love for the game and his belief in its enduring value. He emphasized that Test cricket, with its unique challenges and rewards, teaches life lessons that cannot be found elsewhere. “Test cricket is the closest synergy that you can find to life,” he said. “It will teach you to adapt, dealing with pressures.”

The 37-year-old spinner also paid tribute to his father, who played a pivotal role in his journey to the international stage. Ashwin recalled how his father would take him to cricket practice on his motorbike, despite being a government employee with limited means. “He got me here because of the help of my mom and, of course, my granddad,” Ashwin said.

Ashwin’s wife, Preeti, has also been a constant source of support throughout his career. “My wife didn’t know what she was getting into. She’s gotten into it and she’s standing next to me today,” he said.

India head coach Rahul Dravid, who handed Ashwin his 100th Test cap, praised the spinner’s dedication and contributions to the team. “You have given everything faithfully to the team and today is your 100th Test,” Dravid said. “It’s been a privilege speaking with you. It’s been a privilege to work with you as a coach.”

Ashwin’s 100th Test was a celebration of his remarkable career and a reminder of the enduring power of Test cricket. His speech served as a passionate defense of the longest format of the game, highlighting its ability to teach valuable life lessons and create lasting memories.

Categories: Cricket

Ronaldo’s United Return Ends in Disappointment

By Nilay March 7, 2024 0

Cristiano Ronaldo’s tumultuous second stint at Manchester United ended abruptly in November 2022, following a controversial interview where he criticized the club’s hierarchy and manager Erik ten Hag. The decision to terminate his contract marked a bitter end to a transfer that had initially sparked excitement among United fans.

United had acquired Ronaldo from Juventus in the summer of 2021 for a fee of 15 million Euros, plus potential add-ons. The Portuguese superstar’s arrival was seen as a major coup for the club, given his legendary status and prolific goalscoring record. However, the move proved to be a disappointment, with Ronaldo struggling to adapt to ten Hag’s high-pressing style of play.

As the season progressed, Ronaldo’s playing time diminished, leading to growing frustration. The situation reached a boiling point when he gave an unauthorized interview to British broadcaster Piers Morgan, in which he expressed his dissatisfaction with the club’s management and coaching staff.

In the interview, Ronaldo claimed that he felt “betrayed” by United and that he had no respect for ten Hag. The club responded by suspending Ronaldo and eventually terminating his contract by mutual consent.

Former United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who had initially signed Ronaldo, has since admitted that the transfer was a mistake. “With the ball, with him in the team, it was no problem,” Solskjaer said. “But without him [pressing], we had to change a little bit from the different roles we’d gotten used to.”

Solskjaer also acknowledged that Ronaldo’s age and fitness levels played a role in his reduced playing time. “Cristiano – when you know him and speak to him, he wanted to play three out of four games, he realized he’s getting older as well,” Solskjaer said. “But when you leave him out once, he’s not happy!”

Ten Hag’s position as United manager is now under scrutiny following a string of poor results, including a humiliating 1-3 defeat to Manchester City in their latest Premier League fixture. United currently sit sixth in the standings, with their hopes of qualifying for the Champions League fading.

Categories: Football

Ireland Considers Postponing Australia Series Amid Financial and Logistical Pressures

By Nilay March 7, 2024 0

Ireland’s packed home schedule has cast doubt over their upcoming bilateral series against Australia. The series, scheduled for August and September, includes three ODIs and a T20I. However, Cricket Ireland is facing financial and logistical challenges that may force them to postpone the fixtures.

The Future Tours Programme (FTP) has Australia touring Ireland before heading to England for further white-ball series. But Ireland’s hectic summer schedule, which includes tours from Pakistan and South Africa, a T20 tri-series with the Netherlands and Scotland, and a one-off Test and white-ball series against Zimbabwe, has raised concerns about their ability to host Australia.

Ireland’s recent Test victory against Afghanistan and their upcoming Test against Zimbabwe have added to the strain on their resources. They are also set to host England, Sri Lanka, and the Netherlands in women’s cricket.

Cricket Ireland high performance director Richard Holdsworth acknowledged the challenges, stating that the costs of hosting games in Ireland have increased significantly since the COVID-19 pandemic. He also ruled out moving the Australia series to England, where Ireland has previously played matches.

Holdsworth said Ireland is exploring all options, including moving the Australia series to a different part of the FTP. He also expressed disappointment that Ireland’s budget is not as large as expected due to the new ICC distribution model, which allocates some funds to a retained surplus fund.

Holdsworth believes that if Ireland had access to its full allocation of ICC funds, they would be better equipped to deliver their international schedule. He added that Ireland, along with Afghanistan and Zimbabwe, may be able to reduce the withholding of funding through discussions at next week’s ICC meetings in Dubai.

Categories: Cricket

Gill’s Sensational Catch Electrifies Dharamshala Test

By Nilay March 7, 2024 0

Catches Win Matches: Gill’s Spectacular Grab Electrifies Dharamshala Test

In the captivating realm of cricket, the adage “catches win matches” holds true, as evidenced by the electrifying catch taken by Shubman Gill on the opening day of the fifth Test between India and England in Dharamshala.

England, having opted to bat first, had made a promising start, reaching 64/0. However, Kuldeep Yadav’s introduction into the attack proved pivotal, as he struck for the first wicket in his very first over.

Frustrated by Yadav’s relentless accuracy, Ben Duckett attempted a forceful shot on the leg-side. However, the cunning googly deceived him, sending the ball skewing high into the air on the off-side.

With lightning reflexes, Gill, stationed at cover, sprinted sideways to his right, covering an impressive 16 meters backwards. In a perfectly timed dive, he extended his right arm and snared the catch over his shoulder.

The Indian cricket board (BCCI) captured the moment in a video, showcasing Gill’s unwavering focus and athleticism. The catch not only dismissed Duckett but also ignited the Indian team, providing a much-needed boost of momentum.

Commentators and fans alike hailed Gill’s catch as one of the finest in recent memory. Sunil Gavaskar, the legendary Indian batsman, even compared it to Travis Head’s iconic catch to dismiss Rohit Sharma in the 2023 World Cup final.

Gill’s catch serves as a reminder of the crucial role that fielding plays in the game of cricket. A well-executed catch can not only prevent runs but also break partnerships and turn the tide of a match.

As the Test series between India and England continues, Gill’s spectacular catch will undoubtedly be etched in the annals of cricket history, inspiring future generations of fielders to strive for excellence.

Categories: Cricket

Messi’s Summer Schedule: Copa America, Olympics, and Leagues Cup

By Nilay March 7, 2024 0

Lionel Messi’s summer schedule is shaping up to be a whirlwind of international commitments and club obligations. The Argentine maestro will be a key figure for his country at the Copa America (June 20-July 14) and is rumored to be considering participation in the Paris Olympics (July 24-August 10).

Adding to Messi’s packed itinerary, Inter Miami, his current club, will compete in the Leagues Cup (July 26-August 25). The tournament pits MLS teams against Liga MX clubs, further complicating Messi’s availability.

Javier Mascherano, Messi’s former Barcelona and Argentina teammate, provided an update on the star’s potential Olympic involvement. “Lionel is aware that age is catching up with him,” Mascherano told Tyc Sports. “He has to manage his workload because he has had a year of heavy activity.”

Mascherano emphasized that the invitation to the Olympics was extended to give Messi time to consider his options. “We believed it was necessary to extend this invitation so that he has the time to think it over and analyze it because he would have to leave his club,” he said.

Mascherano also commented on the possibility of goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez joining the Olympic squad. “How could we not consider Dibu Martínez? We have the advantage of having the World Cup-winning team,” he said. “Dibu is among the best goalkeepers in the world.”

However, Mascherano ruled out the inclusion of Ángel Di María, another former Argentina teammate. “Ángel appreciated the call, but he has no intention of going to Paris,” he said. “We have ruled him out; he wants to give space to the younger players.”

Messi has previously won an Olympic gold medal in 2008, but his participation in Paris remains uncertain. He is expected to be a key player for Argentina in their Copa America title defense, as they aim to retain the trophy they won in 2021.

Categories: Football

England Bat First in Fifth Test Against India, Ashwin and Bairstow Reach 100-Test Milestone

By Nilay March 7, 2024 0

England skipper Ben Stokes opted to bat first in the fifth and final Test against India at Dharamsala’s Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) stadium on Thursday, March 7, 2024. Despite India’s 3-1 series victory, England is determined to salvage some pride and earn valuable ICC World Test Championship points.

This match marks a significant milestone for both Indian all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin and England batter Jonny Bairstow, who are playing their 100th Test. England has made one change to their playing eleven, bringing in Mark Wood, while India has replaced Akash Deep with Jasprit Bumrah.

During the toss, Stokes expressed his team’s desire to bat first, citing the pitch’s appearance. He also praised Bairstow’s achievement, calling him “one of our best-ever all-format players.”

Indian skipper Rohit Sharma echoed Stokes’ sentiments, stating that India would have also chosen to bat first. He acknowledged Ashwin’s remarkable career and expressed his support for the all-rounder.

England’s playing eleven consists of Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Ben Stokes (c), Jonny Bairstow, Ben Foakes (w), Tom Hartley, Shoaib Bashir, Mark Wood, and James Anderson.

India’s playing eleven includes Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Devdutt Padikkal, Ravindra Jadeja, Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (w), Ravichandran Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, and Jasprit Bumrah.

With the series already decided, both teams will be eager to end on a high note and secure the remaining 12 ICC World Test Championship points. The match promises to be an exciting contest between two talented sides.

Categories: Cricket

Devdutt Padikkal Makes Test Debut as India Announces Changes for Dharamsala Test

By Nilay March 7, 2024 0

Devdutt Padikkal Makes Test Debut as India Announces Changes for Dharamsala Test

The Indian cricket team has made two changes to its squad for the fifth and final Test against England in Dharamsala, with Devdutt Padikkal becoming the 314th player to represent India in the longest format of the game. Padikkal replaces Rajat Patidar, who sustained an injury in a training session on the eve of the match.

Patidar’s performance in the series had been underwhelming, but captain Rohit Sharma had expressed confidence in the batter at a press conference on Wednesday. However, Rohit revealed at the toss that Padikkal would be replacing Patidar in the playing XI.

“We would have batted first as well. We have done really well so far in this series and an opportunity to finish on a high. There should be good bounce on this pitch than the games before in this series. Good pitch to bat on and I don’t think it will deteriorate that much. Ash has been a real stalwart of Indian cricket. Such a proud moment for him, his nation and the family. We will be rooting for him to do the magic,” Rohit said on Thursday morning.

The Patidar-Padikkal swap was not the only change in the team, with Jasprit Bumrah returning to the side in place of Akash Deep.

“Bumrah is back, Akash Deep misses out. Devdutt Padikkal makes his debut as Patidar got injured last evening,” Rohit concluded.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) provided an update on Patidar’s status, stating that he “got hit on his left ankle during Team India’s practice session on 6th March, 2024. He pulled up sore on the morning of the game and was not available for selection for the 5th Test.”

Padikkal, a left-handed opening batter, has been in impressive form for Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Indian Premier League (IPL). He has scored over 1,000 runs in the last two seasons, including a century in the 2023 edition.

Bumrah, on the other hand, is a key member of India’s bowling attack. He has been rested for the first four Tests of the series but is expected to play a crucial role in the final match.

India will be looking to seal a 4-0 series victory in Dharamsala, while England will be aiming to salvage some pride after losing the first four Tests.

Categories: Cricket

Australia Unchanged for Second New Zealand Test, Boland Likely to Return Home

By Nilay March 7, 2024 0

Australia’s Test team will remain unchanged for the fourth consecutive match, with the bowling quartet also set to stay intact for the seventh time this summer. Back-up quick Scott Boland is likely to be released to play Sheffield Shield cricket for Victoria on Monday.

Captain Pat Cummins confirmed the expected lineup for the second Test against New Zealand at Hagley Oval, starting Friday. Australia aims to secure a 2-0 series victory after their triumph in Wellington.

The final round of Shield matches begins Monday, and Victoria has a chance to qualify for a third straight final by hosting Western Australia at the Junction Oval in Melbourne. Boland and Michael Neser are the two reserve quicks on tour, while Matt Renshaw is the only spare batter in the 14-man squad.

Australia must retain at least one spare batter and one spare bowler in case of a concussion but could release one of the quicks to play in the Shield. Queensland is out of contention for the final and would not require Neser’s return.

Boland is expected to be released after Friday’s toss to prepare for Victoria’s match against Western Australia. “There was talk of maybe sending Scotty back for Victoria but holding Nes back from Queensland just to annoy Marnus [Labuschagne] and Usman [Khawaja],” Cummins said.

Boland has had a frustrating summer. He starred in Australia’s World Test Championship final victory last June and kept Mitchell Starc out of the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston. However, England targeted him in the two Tests he played in the Ashes, and Australia reverted to their “big three” for the final two Tests.

Boland was rested for specific Shield matches at the start of the summer at the request of Australia’s selectors to be fresh for the Tests. However, the trio of Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc have remained fit, and Boland has played only five first-class matches this season.

“I think I said at the start of the summer I’d be surprised we played all seven just because it’s rare that something doesn’t pop up,” Cummins said. “But thankfully we’ve all kind of managed all the little niggles that pop up pretty well.”

While Australia is settled, there is caution heading into the second Test. In 2022 against Sri Lanka and last month against the West Indies, Australia squandered 1-0 leads with poor performances in the second match of each series.

Concerns surround the batting group, with frank discussions held internally during the week about being more ruthless and accountable to individual plans. “I think it’s just decision-making around plans, and having really clear plans,” Cummins said. “It doesn’t mean you need to have 12 shot options. It might only be two or three.”

Categories: Cricket

CA Green and CA Gold Draw Thrilling Red-Ball Encounter

Shubman Gill Praises Ashwin’s Influence, Reflects on India’s Resilience

Ravichandran Ashwin Celebrates 100th Test, Extols Virtues of Test Cricket

Ronaldo’s United Return Ends in Disappointment

Ireland Considers Postponing Australia Series Amid Financial and Logistical Pressures

Gill’s Sensational Catch Electrifies Dharamshala Test

Messi’s Summer Schedule: Copa America, Olympics, and Leagues Cup

England Bat First in Fifth Test Against India, Ashwin and Bairstow Reach 100-Test Milestone

Devdutt Padikkal Makes Test Debut as India Announces Changes for Dharamsala Test

Australia Unchanged for Second New Zealand Test, Boland Likely to Return Home

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