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These 5 footballers played for both Real Madrid and Barcelona

These 5 footballers played for both Real Madrid and Barcelona

By March 15, 2023 0

Several of the world’s greatest soccer players have played for both Real Madrid and Barcelona, making the Clasico one of the most historic rivalries in the sport. These players include some of the biggest names in the game, having crossed the divide between the two clubs to appear on both sides. 

Representing both sides of the Clasico is rare and certainly frowned upon – but that hasn’t stopped a few of the all-time greats from taking the risk and making the jump from one club to the other. It’s a testament to how intense the rivalry is that such an action has become taboo, yet many players have still found success in doing so. 

Despite the intense rivalry between Real Madrid and Barcelona, many players have embraced the challenge of crossing the divide and turned out for both teams. It takes a brave spirit to make such a move, but their stories make for some of the most compelling narratives in the world of football. El Clasico is one of the fiercest rivalries in sports, and its intensity stems from the two teams being from the two largest cities in Spain that had completely different political views. The clubs are also some of the wealthiest in the world, which has led to a rivalry so intense that few others can compare. This match has been described as a ‘Clasico’ due to the unique circumstances of this unique rivalry. 

Iker Bravo’s move from Barcelona to Real Madrid is a rare example of a player crossing the road between the two Spanish giants. After initially training in Barcelona’s renowned La Masia academy and signing a contract extension with the club, circumstances led to him ending up on loan at Real Madrid via Bayer Leverkusen. It’s certainly a unique story and one that will surely be closely followed. 

Crossing the divide between Barcelona and Real Madrid is not for the faint of heart. Over 30 players have had the honor, or the tenacity, to take on this challenge and play for both clubs in their careers. Some players have taken the leap years apart, while others have gone directly from one to the other. The move has often been met with disdain from the fans of the player’s first club. 

5 footballers who played for Real Madrid and Barcelona 

Luis Figo 

Appearances/Goals for Barcelona: 249/45 

Appearances/Goals for Real Madrid: 239/57 

The Figo Affair': Netflix Set Doc On Luís Figo's Move To Real Madrid – Deadline

Creator: Eddy LEMAISTRE | Credit: Corbis via Getty Images

Undoubtedly the most notorious player on this list is Luis Figo. His move from Barcelona to Real Madrid in 2000 drew the ire of Barca fans, as they felt betrayed by their former star player. It was a controversial move that firmly entrenched him on the side of Madrid in the ongoing Clasico rivalry. 

When Luis Figo made a move from Barcelona to Real Madrid, he was widely regarded as the best player in the world. His signing was a major coup for Real Madrid and helped Florentino Perez win the presidency of the club. Soon after joining Madrid, Figo was awarded the Ballon d’Or, largely for his performances at Barcelona. It was a fitting honor for one of the greatest players ever to represent both sides of the Clasico divide. 

Whenever Luis Figo returned to play at Camp Nou, he was met with intense vitriol from Barcelona fans. Despite his stature in the sport, his move to Real Madrid made him public enemy number one in the eyes of many Barca supporters.

After he was pelted with missiles taking corners during a game in 2002, team-mate Michel Salgado said: “By the second or third corner, I turned to Luis and said: ‘Forget it, mate. You’re on your own.”I used to offer Luis the chance to take the short corner, drawing up close to him near the touchline, but not this time. Missiles were raining down from the stands: coins, a knife, a glass whiskey bottle.” 

During his time with both teams, Luis Figo made over 200 appearances for each club and won two league titles with Barcelona and two with Real Madrid. He also helped Madrid win in the 2002 Champions League, cementing his place as a player who has succeeded on both sides of the Clasico divide. 

Ronaldo Nazario

Appearances/Goals for Barcelona: 49/47 

Appearances/Goals for Real Madrid: 177/104 

Ronaldo explains why AC Milan will compete with Inter and Juventus for the Scudetto

Creator: Buda Mendes | Credit: Getty Images Copyright: 2022 Getty Images

Unlike Luis Figo, Brazilian Ronaldo is fondly remembered by both Barcelona and Real Madrid fans. This is likely due to his sheer brilliance on the pitch – his quality was undeniable, and he was beloved by supporters of both clubs. Ronaldo only spent one season at Barcelona, but it was one of the most remarkable campaigns any player had ever produced in Spain. He quickly became a fan favorite, and his performance earned him deserved praise. 

In the 1996-97 season, Ronaldo hit an incredible 47 goals in 49 games in all competitions. However, a contract dispute at the end of the season saw him leave Barcelona for Inter Milan, setting a new world transfer record that he had just broken by joining Barca from PSV. Ronaldo also won the Ballon d’Or that year – a fitting honor for such an incredible season. 

In 2002, Ronaldo returned to Spain when he joined Real Madrid as part of the ‘Galactico’ generation. He went on to win his second Ballon d’Or and the La Liga top scorer, cementing his legacy as one of the all-time greats at Barcelona and Real Madrid. Despite his brilliance at Real Madrid, Ronaldo’s time at the Santiago Bernabeu only yielded one league title and no Champions League titles. Unfortunately, a series of injuries and weight issues marked the beginning of a long decline for the legendary Brazilian player. 

Ronaldo has spoken fondly of his time with both Barcelona and Real Madrid. He previously stated that playing for two of the world’s most successful clubs was an honor and that he respected them both despite the rivalry. He has also credited the experience of playing in El Clasico as helping make him the player he is today. 

Michael Laudrup 

Appearances/Goals for Barcelona: 217/55 

Appearances/Goals for Real Madrid: 76/15 

Mediano Special - Michael Laudrup i Italien — Mediano

Creator: Alessandro Sabattini | Credit: Getty Images Copyright: 1985-86 Alessandro Sabattini

Michael Laudrup, the Danish footballer widely recognized as the best player to come from Scandinavia, was an essential member of Johan Cruyff’s “Dream Team” that won four consecutive La Liga championships in the early 1990s. With his exceptional vision and creative playmaking, Laudrup was widely considered one of the greatest footballers of all time. Frank Beckenbauer, an iconic football manager, praised Laudrup, saying, “Pele was the best of the 1960s, Johan Cruyff conquered the 1970s, Diego Maradona blew away the 1980s, and Michael Laudrup was the star of the 1990s.” 

After five outstanding seasons with Barcelona, Laudrup had a disagreement with Cruyff and made an immediate move to Real Madrid in 1994. His first season with the Madrid team was triumphant, as they won their first La Liga title in five years. Laudrup went on to play for Madrid for two more seasons, winning two more La Liga titles in the process. He was a crucial part of the Madrid side that won their first Champions League in 32 years, and his impressive performance earned him a nomination for the UEFA Club Footballer of the Year award. 

Memorably, Laudrup was on the winning side for two 5-0 Clasico wins, one in his last season with Barcelona and one in his first season with Madrid. These victories highlighted Laudrup’s ability to excel regardless of which team he was playing for. After two successful seasons with Madrid, Laudrup moved to Vissel Kobe in Japan. Later in 2002, a Marca poll declared him the 12th greatest player ever to have played for the Madrid club. 

Notoriously, Laudrup won two 5-0 El Clasico victories, one with Barcelona and another with Real Madrid. His remarkable ability to remain successful regardless of which team he was playing for proved to be an inspiration to football fans all over the world. 

Luis Enrique 

Appearances/Goals for Barcelona: 300/109 

Appearances/Goals for Real Madrid: 213/18 

The reasons for Luis Enrique's change to De la Fuente as Spain coach | Atalayar - Las claves del mundo en tus manos

Creator: DYLAN MARTINEZ | Credit: REUTERS

Luis Enrique, a versatile and skillful midfielder, had the remarkable achievement of playing over 200 times for both Barcelona and Real Madrid and accumulating more than 50 international caps for Spain. He was a highly admired player in Spanish football during the late 90s and early 2000s. 

Despite winning three trophies during his five-year stint at Madrid, Luis Enrique felt unappreciated there and left for Barcelona on a free transfer in 1996. With his signing, Barcelona was optimistic about having acquired the services of such a great player. Luis Enrique had to work hard to win over the Barcelona fans, but eventually, he became a beloved captain and scored many winning goals in Clasico matches against his former team. His impressive performances in both Barcelona and Madrid made him one of the most iconic footballers in Spanish football. 

Following a successful playing career, Luis Enrique was appointed manager of Barcelona and went on to win two more La Liga titles and the prestigious 2015 Champions League trophy. His successful management over the years has cemented his legacy as one of the greatest players and coaches of all time. Luis Enrique has spoken fondly about his time in Madrid, crediting them for giving him the opportunity to play in a world-class team. Although his time at Real Madrid was relatively short, he said it was still an unforgettable experience that he cherishes to this day. 

Samuel Eto’o 

Appearances/Goals for Barcelona: 199/130 

Appearances/Goals for Real Madrid: 7/0 

Monsieur le Président? Samuel Eto'o's second act - The Mail & Guardian

Creator: Etsuo Hara | Credit: Getty Images Copyright: 2008 Etsuo Hara

After being discovered at the Kadji Sports Academy in Cameroon, Samuel Eto’o joined Real Madrid as a young player but was unable to make an impact with the team. During his time in Madrid, he was loaned out multiple times and only made a few appearances for the club in La Liga. 

After being unable to make his mark in Madrid, Samuel Eto’o left for Mallorca and scored 54 goals in four and a half seasons. In 2004, he joined Barcelona, seizing the opportunity to demonstrate his talents which Madrid had overlooked. Over the course of two successful seasons at Barcelona, Eto’o scored an impressive total of 130 goals in all competitions.

During his time in Barcelona, Eto’o won three La Liga titles and two Champions League trophies, making it a highly successful spell. In 2009, the Cameroonian moved to Inter Milan and won the treble alongside manager Jose Mourinho. Samuel Eto’o’s successful career highlights his exceptional talent and undeniable abilities.

Categories: Sports360
Erling-Haaland-goals

Man City’s five-star striker Haaland powers the club into UCL quarter-finals

By March 15, 2023 0

German club RB Leipzig who held Manchester City to a 1-1 draw in the first leg of their Round of 16 match were simply destroyed by City striker Erling Haaland who scored five goals. The Pep Guardiola led-side beat the Bundesliga side 7-0 (8-1 on aggregate) to qualify for the quarter-finals of the Champions League.

The Norwegian – whose five goals came within a devastating 35-minute spell – already had a hat-trick by half-time, a penalty, a close-range finish stemming from his pressing of the goalkeeper, and a scrappy third after Leipzig had cleared the ball off the line. Two more close-range finishes furthered the pain for the visitors, either side of Ilkay Gundogan and Kevin de Bruyne’s goals.

Haaland’s remarkable five-goal haul ensured he moved beyond the 30-goal mark in the Champions League, becoming the youngest goal scorer in the competition to reach that milestone – secured by his hat-trick strike just before the break. Also, Haaland now has 33 Champions League strikes in 25 appearances – the youngest player, at 22 years and 236 days, to reach 30. He eclipsed Tommy Johnson’s 38 City goals in the 1928-29 season.

Erling Haaland, who was subbed in the 58th minute, joked that he had told manager Pep Guardiola he wanted six when he was taken off. Speaking of City’s victory, he continued: “This was a big night. I am proud to play in the Champions League, I love this competition – as everyone knows. Five goals to win 7-0 at home, I am so happy!”

He further added, “We worked on pressing them for this game, especially at home but in every game we need to put the opposition under pressure. We are so good at winning the ball high up the pitch and moving forward quickly, working the ball to Kevin de Bruyne.”

In the process, Haaland joined the likes of Lionel Messi and Luiz Adriano for scoring five goals in a Champions League game.

Categories: Trending News
All England Open Badminton Championships

The All England Open Badminton Championship to begin from today

By March 14, 2023 0

One of badminton’s most prestigious tournaments, the All England Open Badminton Championships, is slated to begin today and conclude on March 19th. The tournament is happening in Birmingham, England.

The first BWF World Tour Super 1000 event of the 2023 season will see all the top stars in action, with full draws of 32 players and pairs in all five events. Many high-profile shuttles like Viktor Axelsen and Yamaguchi Akane are the top seeds for the event. Among the Indian players, shuttles like Kidambi Srikanth, HS Prannoy, Lakshya Sen, PV Sindhu, and Saina Nehwal will make their presence felt at the tournament.

Where to watch the All England Open Badminton Championships live in India?

The All England Open Badminton Championships will be live telecasted on BWF TV, the official YouTube channel of BWF. The tournament will also be telecasted on Sports18, Voot, and JioCinema.

What is Team India’s squad for the Badminton Championships?

Men’s singles- Main draw: Lakshya Sen, Kidambi Srikanth, HS Prannoy

Women’s singles- Main draw: Saina Nehwal, PV Sindhu

Men’s doubles- Main draw: Satwiksairaj Rankireddy/Chirag Shetty (6), MR Arjun/Dhruv Kapila

Women’s doubles- Main draw: Gayatri Gopichand/Treesa Jolly, Ashwini Bhat K/Shikha Gautam

Mixed doubles- Main draw: Ishaan Bhatnagar/Tanisha Crasto

Categories: Trending News
Can WPL be a game-changer for women's cricket?

Can WPL be a game-changer for women’s cricket?

By March 13, 2023 0

The current generation of women cricketers has been presented with amazing opportunities. The introduction of the Women’s Premier League has allowed them to show their talents and gain recognition in an arena that provides more lucrative opportunities. The women’s Premier League is a dream come true for many cricketers. With the support of franchise owners and sponsors, it is now up to the players to use their skills and expertise to take the league to a whole new level of entertainment that everyone can enjoy. 

Over the past decade, women’s cricket in India has seen an increase in media coverage, especially on social media platforms. This surge of support has led to the demand for a T20 league similar to the Indian Premier League (IPL), which is dedicated to female cricketers. The idea behind the Women’s Premier League is straightforward – to give female cricketers the recognition and fame that the male players have been enjoying for so long. With the highly anticipated start of the WPL in Mumbai this Saturday, we can be hopeful that this will be a successful step toward giving women in cricket the spotlight they deserve. 

Can WPL do for women’s cricket what IPL did for men’s cricket? 

The introduction of the Women’s Premier League is a significant step in giving female cricketers the recognition they deserve. It will bring them into the wider cricket conversation, encouraging the use of gender-neutral terms like “batter” and allowing them to be seen in the same light as their male counterparts. 

A glitzy opening ceremony marked the start of the inaugural WPL

Source: Cricbuzz

The advantages of having a top-level T20 league, such as the IPL or the Women’s Big Bash League, have been evident. Harmanpreet Kaur’s legendary 171 not out against Australia in the 2017 ODI World Cup final created a powerful ripple effect that changed the sport in India. This remarkable feat was spurred by her successful first season in the WBBL, demonstrating just how influential a good league can be. 

The Indian cricket fan is known for its unique characteristics, which can be successfully tapped into by a franchise-owned daily league. This will be much more effective and emotionally engaging than the four-match Women’s T20 Challenge that BCCI had in place previously. Apart from the huge amount of money, media attention, team ownership, and sponsorship, the major objective of the WPL is to mainstream women’s cricket in the sporting conversation. 

Beyond the headlines, the Women’s Premier League has the potential to capture the hearts of India’s cricket-obsessed fans. These are the people who spend time analyzing and discussing last night’s match, making memes about it, and critiquing their play. Cricket is indeed more than just a sport in India, and it’s time for the WPL to capitalize on that for the betterment of Women’s cricket. 

The Women’s Premier League will not only give women’s cricket a platform for the future but will also continue to elevate its current profile in the sport. Beyond the well-known names like Mithali Raj, Jhulan Goswami, and Harmanpreet Kaur, how many other Indian female cricketers are truly recognized in India? How many Indian fans know about them? 

Did you know that explosive opening batter Shafali Verma disguised herself as a boy to join the district team? Or that fast bowler Shikha Pandey was also part of the Indian Air Force as a squadron leader? Incredible stories like these are what will make the Women’s Premier League even more captivating. 

Both Shafali Verma and Shikha Pandey are international stars with plenty of World Cup experience. You can even search for their viral moments on the field, such as the “Ball of the Century.” These stories will surely add to the excitement of the Women’s Premier League.

While the average cricket-watching and news-reading fans may be familiar with these players, the Women’s Premier League will elevate them to a whole new level of recognition. If the WPL can capture even a fraction of the market share that the IPL enjoys, it will go a long way toward making women’s cricket more popular and accepted. 

Besides the internationals, the Women’s Premier League also highlights some of the most inspiring stories from other female cricketers. For example, Sonam Yadav and Shabnam Shakil are both 15-year-old cricketers who have already won a World Cup. Additionally, Jasia Akhtar is a 34-year-old domestic player from Kashmir who plays for Rajasthan. These stories and more will be featured during the Women’s Premier League. Sneha Deepthi is a mother to a toddler who still actively plays cricket – a rare feat in India. 

The Women’s Premier League is an unprecedented opportunity for female cricketers in India. With the support of franchise owners, sponsors, and the media, these players now have the platform to showcase their talents and reach a wider audience. This is a milestone moment for the sport, and it will be exciting to see this league’s impact on the game. 

The Women’s Premier League will be a momentous occasion for female cricketers in India. Through this league, they can now reach a wider audience, demonstrate their skills and talent, and prove that women’s cricket is an integral part of the sport. With daily prime-time matches, regular coverage, viral videos, and content generation on social media, this league has the potential to impact the cricket scene. 

The stage is set, and the spotlight is here – the Women’s Premier League is about to take on the world. Smriti Mandhana believes.

Page 2: WPL 2023: Five players who might earn more than INR 5 crore

Creator: Pat Elmont – ECB | Credit: ECB via Getty Images Copyright: 2021 ECB

Indian superstar Smriti Mandhana is sure that WPL is going to change the fortune of Women’s cricket. This is what she has to say about the Indian tournament in her recent interview. 

“I feel women’s cricket is on the verge of going to the next level. I wouldn’t compare it with men’s cricket or that sort, but to be involved from the time it (sport) is growing — I feel that is the USP of women’s cricket because everyone can say we were part of the journey that got women’s cricket higher. I would say the 1983 World Cup victory changed men’s cricket. Whoever was cheering for them will be thinking, ‘‘we supported men’s cricket to grow, to reach this level’. Women’s cricket is at the stage where people can connect more with us because we are still growing; we want to grow to a level where everyone knows us. And whoever supports women’s cricket will get involved in this journey,” 

“It is still very raw (women’s game). There is more swing, I would say, and there’s more timing involved than power. As women cricketers, we always wished this happened to us,” she said with a chuckle. “(But) I wouldn’t say I am in the spotlight… I just feel normal, chilling, enjoying playing cricket.” 

Categories: Sports360
harmanpreet kaur

Harmanpreet’s MI records 4th straight win in the WPL

By March 13, 2023 0

Harmanpreet’s Kaur-led Mumbai Indians has comfortably beaten UP Warriorz by eight wickets in their group-stage match yesterday. The Women in Blue and Gold chased down UP Warriorz’s target of 160 runs inside 18 overs to record their fourth straight win in the Women’s Premier League.

Batting first, the UP Warriorz posted a competitive score of 159 for the loss of 8 wickets on the back of skipper Alyssa Healy and Tahlia McGrath’s half-centuries. For Mumbai Indians, Saika Ishaque was the pick of the bowlers, taking three wickets for 33 runs in her full quota of 4 overs.

Coming to the chase, the Mumbai Indians had a strong start posting 58 runs in the first seven overs. However, they seemed to lose the plot a bit in the middle overs as the table toppers lost two wickets in successive overs. But the calm and composed gameplay of skipper Harmanpreet Kaur and Nat Sciver-Brunt helped the Women in Blue and Gold effortlessly chase down the target. Harmanpreet scored an excellent half-century off 33 balls, while Sciver-Brunt played her part with fantastic 45-run innings off 31 balls.

With this win, the Mumbai Indians have earned a victory against all the other four teams in the Women’s Premier League. They are well-settled and look like a strong contender to lift the WPL trophy.

Categories: Trending News
Top 5 overseas players who will excel at WPL

5 overseas players who will do great at the WPL

By March 9, 2023 0

The Women’s Premier League’s inaugural season has begun on Saturday, March 4. Last month in Mumbai, the first-ever WPL Auction occurred, and Smriti Mandhana was the most expensive player, signing with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) for ₹3.4 crores. Additionally, Ashleigh Gardner was chosen by Gujarat Giants (GG) for ₹3.2 crores. 

Many of the players participating in the tournament recently took part in the Women’s T20 World Cup 2023, where Australia won their sixth title as they defeated hosts South Africa. England’s Natalie Sciver will be representing Mumbai Indians in WPL, who purchased her for ₹3.2 crores in a bidding war. Jemimah Rodrigues, who had a brilliant T20 World Cup, was acquired by Delhi Capitals (DC) for ₹2.2 crores. 

The league stage of the Women’s Premier League will see all five franchises—MI, RCB, DC, GG, and UP Warriorz—play four home and four away matches. At the end of this phase, the top three teams will move on to the next round, with the first-placed team securing a direct spot in the final. Meanwhile, the third and fourth-placed sides will have to play an Eliminator match to determine who will qualify for the final. 

5 overseas players who will do great at the WPL 

Meg Lanning (Delhi Capitals) 

'We'll be ready to go' – Lanning on 2021 World Cup preparations

Creator: Matthew Lewis | Credit: Getty Images Copyright: 2019 Getty Images

Meg Lanning is currently the leader of the Australian T20 team and has led them to their sixth title. She is ranked fourth on the ICC T20I Batting Rankings and generally bats at No. 3, providing stability and aggression at the crease. With her ability to bat anywhere, she will be a key asset for the Delhi Capitals. Her experience as a five-time World Cup-winning captain should be invaluable during the Women’s Premier League. 

Ashleigh Gardner (Gujarat Giants) 

Ashleigh Gardner's T20 World Cup-inspired piece of art

Creator: Cameron Spencer | Credit: Getty Images Copyright: 2020 Getty Images

Australian all-rounder Ashleigh Gardner is currently the No. 1 T20I all-rounder in the world and was one of the joint most expensive overseas players at the WPL auction. She recently earned the title of “Player of the Tournament” at the Women’s T20 World Cup, scoring 110 runs and taking ten wickets during the tournament. Her prowess as an aggressive middle-order batter and off-break bowler makes her a formidable force for the Gujarat Giants.

Ellyse Perry (Royal Challengers Bangalore)

Ellyse Perry named ICC Female Cricketer of the Decade | Sydney Sixers - BBL

Creator: Hanna Lassen Copyright: 2020 Getty Images

Ellyse Perry is currently ranked No. 9 on the T20 all-Rounder Rankings and has been an essential part of the Australian team. She has scored 1535 T20I runs at a solid average and has taken 122 wickets. Her experience, wicket-taking ability, and formidable batting skills will be a major asset to the Royal Challengers Bangalore lineup. 

Natalie Sciver-Brunt (Mumbai Indians) 

Sciver-Brunt lands biggest payday in English women's cricket

Creator: Ryan Hiscott | Credit: Getty Images Copyright: 2022 Getty Images

Natalie Sciver-Brunt is an important addition to the top order of Mumbai Indians. She is currently ranked No. 10 as a T20 batter and No. 5 as a T20 all-rounder, making her the most expensive purchase for MI in the auction. With her exceptional batting skills and medium-pace bowling, she will be a formidable asset to the team.

Sophie Ecclestone (UP Warriorz) 

Top-ranked Ecclestone to don magenta in WBBL debut. | cricket.com.au

Creator: James Chance Copyright: 2021 Getty Images

Sophie Ecclestone is currently the No. 1 T20 bowler in the world and is renowned for her precise and economical slow left-arm spin. She was the highest wicket-taker at the Women’s T20 World Cup 2020, taking 11 wickets. As the most expensive overseas buy for the UP Warriorz, she will be a valuable addition to the team—not only for her bowling but also for her long-hitting abilities. 

Categories: Sports360
Sophia Dunkley smashes the fastest fifty of WPL

Sophia Dunkley smashes the fastest fifty of WPL

By March 9, 2023 0

Gujarat Giants’ Sophia Dunkley has smashed the fastest fifty in the Women’s Premier League. The right-handed batter fired an 18-ball fifty against Royal Challengers Bangalore.

The England batter went hammer and tongs against RCB’s Preeti Bose as she slammed her for 4,6,4,4,4 on successive balls to bring her a stunning half-century in the fifth over.

Sophia Dunkley’s blitzkrieg helped Gujarat Giants post a massive 201/7 in their full quota of 20 overs. Royal Challengers Bangalore, in reply, could manage only 190/6 in their 20 overs. Thereby helping Gujarat Giants win their first match of WPL and winning an important two points for the team.

Dunkley’s fifty is the joint-fourth fastest in all recorded women’s T20 competitions in the world. The right-handed batter eventually fell on 65 off just 28 deliveries.

Before Dunkley, the record for the fastest fifty in WPL was with Mumbai Indians’ skipper Harmanpreet Kaur when she notched up a 22-ball half-century in the tournament opener against Gujarat Giants.

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Indian Women Cricketer Richa Ghosh

Richa Ghosh: The new cricket sensation of Team India

By March 8, 2023 0

Oh, My Ghosh! Will be the right way to describe the 19-year-old sensation of the Indian Women’s cricket team. After leading India to glory in the U-19 Women’s T20 World Cup, Richa Ghosh displayed a solid run of performances in the recently conducted Women’s T20 World Cup as well. Richa Ghosh is the only Indian to be included in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup team of the tournament. Richa Ghosh is slowly coming up as the new face of Indian cricket and is expected to reach major heights in the coming years. Let’s have a deeper look at Richa Ghosh and her journey in the sport of cricket. 

Richa Ghosh: The new cricket sensation of Team India 

Richa Ghosh is an Indian cricketer who has represented India at both the Under-19 and Women’s national teams. She hails from Bengal, where she made her first appearances in domestic cricket. Ghosh is a solid allrounder with an attacking batting style and an ability to move the ball both ways with her medium-paced bowling. Richa Ghosh’s cricketing journey began in 2011 when she participated in a talent hunt program in Bengal. 

cricket bats

cricket bats

In 2011-12, Richa was given a chance to get involved in the talent hunt program set up by the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) under the project headed by its former secretary Biswarup Dey. She took advantage of the opportunity and attended a coaching camp at the Bengal Cricket Academy in Kalyani, thus beginning her journey. 

“She was so small then I had to stay with her there and help out with her daily chores. Like other girls of her age, she was extremely fond of chocolates, cold drinks, and chips. We had to make her understand why she should get rid of such junk food. None could miss her talent even then.” said former international and national selector Mithu Mukherjee, who was in charge of the project in Bengal. 

Impressed by Richa’s all-around abilities – including pace bowling, batting as an opener, and being a useful wicketkeeper – Chaitali Basak, one of the coaches, wanted her to join the Bengal state team immediately. However, Mukherjee chose to hold off on this due to her young age. Richa went on to make her debut for Bengal the following season and was picked for the Bengal Under-19 squad when she was only 12 years old. 

“She often used to stay in my apartment in Calcutta during tournaments and camps. There were times they put up at cheap hotels near Sealdah and also the Salt Lake stadium campus. It was tough, but she and her father never gave up,” said Mithu Mukherjee. A year after her initial Bengal debut, Richa managed to make it into the U-23 and senior teams. In 2018, she was honored by the CAB with the Women’s Cricketer of the Year award. While Mukherjee and former Bengal cricketers-turned-coaches Shib Shankar Paul and Charanjit Singh provided technical aid at the CAB, Manabendrababu focused on Richa’s mental conditioning. 

The turning point of Women’s cricket in India 

In 2017, the Indian Women’s Cricket Team had a memorable run at the World Cup, making it to the final against England at Lord’s. In the process, they garnered a lot of attention and admiration, despite narrowly losing in the end. This successful journey at the 2017 World Cup helped Richa as well, who by now was a more polished cricketer and had decided to direct her focus on batting and wicketkeeping. 

“Everyone got interested and started following women’s cricket on social media, something that didn’t happen before. We were able to create an expectation… We could set an example before the younger generation which mattered a lot,” recalled Indian legend Jhulan Goswami. 

Richa made her T20I debut in the tri-series in Australia before the 2020 T20 World Cup. Notably, she became the only World Cup debutant to have five or more dismissals and broke the record for most catches in an ODI inning by an Indian female wicketkeeper against Pakistan in Mount Maunganui in 2022. 

“There was no doubt about her talent. But none can claim credit for her journey to the top. Technically she was always very sound and, at times, better than her contemporaries like Shafali Verma. Her backfoot play can match the best in the business. Playing alongside Jhulan Goswami also helped her,” explained Mukherjee. 

Richa gained a great deal from when Shib Paul assumed the position of Bengal coach in 2019. She was always eager to uncover new techniques and better her performance. Richa was allowed to train and play at higher levels, and she worked hard on her bowling and batting skills. Shib Paul’s guidance helped her hone her wicketkeeping and fielding capabilities. As a result, Richa developed into an all-rounder who could make a strong contribution to her team in every department. In 2020, she was also named in the Wisden India T20I team of the year. 

“She yielded enormous power in her strokes. I used to have separate sessions with her and made her practice and play matches with the boys. I felt she would be more successful and switched her to No. 5 in the batting order,” said Paul. “At my academy at Baghajatin TarunSangha, she used to be at the nets practically the whole day. Playing matches with the boys helped her develop skills and induce more power into her strokes… She turned herself into a matchwinner on her own,” added Paul. 

What does the future hold for the superstar? 

During the recently conducted T20 World Cup in South Africa, Richa displayed remarkable consistency. The success she had achieved at the Under-19 World Cup gave her an extra boost of confidence. Her ability to snatch momentum away from the opposition through her strokeplay was evident in the match against West Indies. 

“She is not the traditional Indian batter who likes to play the drives and stuff like that,” captain Harmanpreet Kaur said. “I think they are players who enjoy the short ball. She’s a superstar for India.” added the Indian skipper. 

Having been selected by the Royal Challengers Bangalore for Rs 1.9 crore in the Women’s Premier League, Richa is looking forward to a new journey that will also provide some financial security. Before the Women’s Premier League auction, the official broadcaster aired a video of Richa Ghosh in which she discussed her desire to buy her family home in Kolkata and expressed her desire for her father to stop working. She was purchased by the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the auction a short while afterward for Rs 1.9 crore. 

“I can’t describe my feelings with words. There are too many emotions inside my mind right now. That kid has suffered a lot, right from a very young age and I somehow feel responsible for it also,” Manabendra Ghosh told The Indian Express from Siliguri. 

Manabendra still recalls how he used to make the 600 km journey from Siliguri to Kolkata on a train in search of cheaper hotels to save money so that his daughter could train. 

“Money was an issue. I didn’t know anyone in Kolkata, so I used to look for cheaper hotels where we would stay. Our daily routine was to leave the hotel at 7 am and come back in the evening. The ground was our home in Kolkata,” said Ghosh. “We will not leave Siliguri, but now with the money, I would get her a flat in Kolkata so that she could stay there and practice,” he added. 

“In 2013, I took out a loan to get her a bat before her U-19 trials. She couldn’t make it that year but a year later at the age of 12, she made her U-19 debut. From there on, she never looked back and played for the U-23 side the same season. A year later at the age of 13, she played for the senior Bengal team,” said Ghosh. 

Richa expressed her gratitude to her parents for helping her succeed in the sport after being overwhelmed by the response she received during the tense auction session. “All my parents wanted me to achieve was to play for India. I want to captain my team and win a major trophy for India. I want to buy a flat in Kolkata. I want my mother and father to settle down there. I want them to enjoy their life now. They have struggled a lot in their life, and they have worked hard a lot for me. Even now, my father does umpire. After the auction, I hope he doesn’t have to work so hard,” Richa Ghosh said to Star Sports after the auction.

Categories: Sports360
PM Narendra Modi

PM Modi to attend the 4th Test between India and Australia at Ahmedabad

By March 8, 2023 0

Ahmedabad is all set to play the host for India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese as special spectators on day one of the fourth Test between India and Australia.

As per reports, the two leaders might be seen in the commentary box as well in the first session of the Test. However, no such plans have been revealed by any officials so far, but reports have surfaced regarding the possibility of such an occurrence on Thursday. Along with that, a lap of the ground is also planned on a vintage vehicle.

According to a statement from the Australian Prime Minister’s office, his visits to Ahmedabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi would strengthen Australia’s strategic, economic, and people-to-people connections with India. According to a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Anthony Albanese will fly into Ahmedabad on March 8 before visiting Mumbai on March 9 and then flying into Delhi later that day.

The 4th Test being held at the Narendra Modi Stadium is the biggest cricket stadium in the world in terms of seating capacity. The venue can host around 1.25 lakh people, and the stadium is expected to be filled with many spectators as India faces Australia.

Having already retained the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, the Indians have too much at stake in the 4th Test. If the Indians manage to win the 4th Test, it will guarantee their place in the World Test Championship finals to be played at Lords.

Categories: Trending News
Top 5 catches in Women's T20 World Cup 2023

Top 5 catches in Women’s T20 World Cup 2023

By March 6, 2023 0

The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup recently ended, with the defending champion Australia collecting another title to their impressive collection. This is their sixth T20 World Cup win, more than any other team. During this tournament, players displayed amazing talents and put on a show with remarkable performances. Viewers have seen some amazing action on the field for almost three weeks. 

Here, we take a look at the top five catches from the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2023 

Richa Ghosh vs England 

India’s teenage wicketkeeper-batswoman Richa Ghosh took an amazing one-handed catch against England to dismiss opener Danni Wyatt. It was a daring effort, and her sharp reflexes allowed her to pull it off with ease. 

Knock in 2nd T20I vs Australia my best so far: Richa Ghosh | News

Creator: Pankaj Nangia | Credit: Getty Images Copyright: 2022 Getty Images

Richa Ghosh stunned everyone with her one-handed catch as Renuka Singh bowled a good-length ball that swung in and elicited an edge from Danni Wyatt. Ghosh had to react quickly and extend her right hand out, and she did so successfully, snatching the ball out of the air and securing the wicket. 

Richa Ghosh’s incredible catch set the tone for India’s strong performance in the match, as the team was able to quickly reduce England to 29-3. It was a very impressive effort from the teenage wicketkeeper and showed her potential for greatness. 

Leah Paul vs England 

Ireland’s Leah Paul certainly impressed as she completed an incredible catch to dismiss Alice Capsey. The English batswoman had scored 51 off 22 balls, and Paul managed to run to her right and dive for the low catch. It was a difficult task, but Paul’s athleticism and prowess saw her pull it off. 

Raising standards offer hope of best-ever World Cup return - Ireland preview

Creator: Oisin Keniry | Credit: Getty Images Copyright: 2022 Oisin Keniry

Alice Capsey’s entertaining innings were cut short when Leah Paul plucked a terrific catch at long-off. Ireland was relieved to see the back of Capsey as she attempted to clear the ropes with a slower leg-cutter. The ball was slowly descending, but Paul managed to catch it with both hands, making a successful save. 

Eden Carson vs Australia 

Unfortunately, luck was not on Beth Mooney‘s side when she attempted a big shot over the backward point region against New Zealand. Although she swung for the fences, her attempt fell short.

Eden Carson made an impressive catch at knee height, stretching her hand full tilt and taking the ball. This acrobatic effort was one of the best catches of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup and a testament to her skill and athleticism. 

Grace Harris vs Sri Lanka

Sri Lankan skipper Chamari Athapathhu attempted a big hit against the bowling of all-rounder Ellyse Perry but wasn’t able to hit it with enough power and precision.

Grace Harris | Stats, Bio, Facts and Career Info

Creator: MARCO LONGARI

Unfortunately, her attempt fell short. Grace Harris showed off her athleticism and prowess at mid-on, taking a stunning catch that surprised everyone. She had to fly to her right in order to grab the ball and was able to do so with impressive agility and skill. 

Chinelle Henry vs England 

England batter Sophia Dunkley’s attempt to smack a full-length delivery straight over the bowler’s head ended in disappointment as Chinelle Henry was able to keep track of the ball and complete a difficult catch. It was a testament to her skill and awareness in the field. Chinelle Henry’s sharp reflexes were on display, helping West Indies to get rid of the dangerous Sophia Dunkley. Dunkley had scored 34 off 18 deliveries Iand was well-set, but Henry’s catch gave Windies the breakthrough they needed.

Categories: Trending News
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