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Revisiting the Best Matches of Border-Gavaskar Trophy

Revisiting the Best Matches of Border-Gavaskar Trophy

By February 10, 2023 0

The most anticipated Border-Gavaskar trophy has already begun as India takes on Australia in the four-match Test series. The Border-Gavaskar Trophy, abbreviated as BGT, is considered one of the most famous Test series between two countries, par with the Ashes. The ongoing BGT series is crucial for India as it will decide their fortunes for the World Test Championship finals. Border-Gavaskar Trophy has given fans some enduring matches over the years. From the perspective of India, there have been several great victories that are very special to forget. Let’s have a look at some of the most nail-biting encounters in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy from the past. 

Revisiting the Best Matches of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 

Gabba, 2021 

The Gabba Test victory will always be the most remarkable Test in the history of Indian cricket. There were a lot of heated arguments between Indian and Australian players during this trip in 2020–21. Tim Paine, the former captain of Australia, even forewarned R Ashwin about short stuff being bowled at Indians on the bumpy Gabba pitch before the fourth and final Test there. Australia proudly referred to the Gabba as their “Fortress” because they had not lost a Test match there in 32 years. India’s Rishabh Pant-led batting squad chased down 328 just before the 5th Day stumps to win the match and the series. With Pant scoring an undefeated 89, the Gabba Fortress was breached. India won the series and created history. 

India

Creator: PATRICK HAMILTON | Credit: AFP via Getty Images

Australian captain Tim Paine said the “world-class” performance of the Indian team had made it “very difficult” to win the match. Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar described the victory as a “fairy tale” and said, “This victory will be remembered for a long time.” India’s stand-in captain Ajinkya Rahane said: “We all should enjoy this win, not just us but every Indian should enjoy this. What we did here is historic, and we want to enjoy this win tonight once we land in India, we will think about the England series.” 

Adelaide, 2021 

India would like to forget a test but will not be able to do so for two reasons. First, in the second innings, they scored 36, the lowest Test score in history. Two, no one anticipated what transpired following this Test as an injury-struck India won the series 2-1 after defeating Australia in two Test matches. Adelaide must be remembered as the starting point of a historic journey on that tour. India scored 244 runs in their first innings before bowling the Australians out for just 191 runs to grab a commanding advantage. 

Then, however, the unthinkable occurred when India got dismissed for just 36 runs in the second innings. India’s batting line-up suffered a major collapse in the second innings of the Adelaide Test match, leading to an embarrassing all-out score of 36. The Indian batsmen failed to stitch together any substantial partnerships and were outdone by the Australian bowlers. Cricket experts widely criticized India’s batting performance, and Ravi Shastri himself admitted that the batting line-up needed to take more responsibility. 

It was the lowest total in India’s Test match history and a far cry from India’s first-innings score of 250. Australia eventually won the match by eight wickets. Australia won and took a 1-0 lead by chasing down the little target on the third day. Head coach Ravi Shastri instructed Indian squad members to accept 36 all-out as a badge of honor and rise to the occasion. India, without Virat Kohli, triumphed after defeating the Australians in the MCG, drawing at the SCG, and winning once more at the Gabba.

Some of the quotes said after the match: 

  1. “It’s a bitter pill to swallow and an outing we need to forget,” – Ravi Shastri
  2. “This was an absolute masterclass by Australia with the ball,” – Virat Kohli
  3. “Australians used their conditions superbly well today and they deserve the win,” – Mayank Agarwal
  4. “It was a very good team effort, every single bowler out there did their part,” – Nathan Lyon

Kolkata, 2001 

The Eden Gardens Test against Australia will go down as one of the pinnacles of Indian Test cricket. In the home series in 2000–01, India were down 0–1. Australia took a commanding lead at Eden Gardens by knocking India out for just 171 runs in the first innings. Then, after asking the Indians to take the follow-on, the visitors were astounded by what happened. 

Highlights: India v Australia - Eden Gardens Test, 2001

Creator: ARKO DATTA | Credit: AFP via Getty Images

A record 376-run partnership between VVS Laxman (281) and Rahul Dravid (180) for the fifth wicket gave India the upper hand. Australians were bowled out for just 212 while chasing 384 to win, thanks to the bowling onslaught led by Harbhajan Singh, who took 13 wickets overall, including 7 in the first innings and 6 in the second. India won the series by defeating Australia in the third test at Chennai. It is one of the best matches from the Border-Gavaskar trophy and probably one of India’s greatest Test victories.

Some of the quotes said after the match: 

  1. “The Kolkata Test of 2001 will remain an everlasting memory in the minds of Indian fans and cricket followers forever.” – VVS Laxman 
  2. “It was an unbelievable match where a team were being looked down with contempt and after being made to follow-on, won!” – Sourav Ganguly
  3. “One of the greatest turnarounds in Test match history.” – Sunil Gavaskar
  4. “India showed marvelous fighting spirit and tremendous character in this match. They never gave up.” – Shane Warne 

Mohali, 2010 

India was 124/8 at one point in the 2010 Test match at Mohali, needing 216 to win. Ishant Sharma then stepped in, batted for 92 deliveries, and helped India secure a crucial ninth-wicket partnership. Ishant had scored 31 runs before he got out, as India needed 11 more runs to win. Raina was scurrying for Laxman as he battled an injury. A typically composed, Laxman lost his composure in the tense final stages of the game and yelled at his batting partner and the runner for taking a hazardous single. 

Ojha, the number 11 batsman who is not well renowned for his batting prowess, managed to put the bat on the ball in the dying moments, and India scored two runs in an exciting victory. Laxman was suffering from unbearable pain but fought till the end for his country. It was one of the most closely fought Test matches in history, ending with India winning by just one wicket. 

Some of the quotes said after the match: 

  1. “Every game of this series has been a great game of cricket, and this one in Mohali was the culmination of all of them. This is not just about victory or defeat, but it was about sheer determination, effort, and hard work.”- VVS Laxman. 
  2. “That’s why cricket is the greatest game of all – it provides such moments that no other sport can. The tension, the drama, and the emotion of one wicket victory in Mohali triumphed over every other result all year.” – Harsha Bhogle 
  3. “The Mohali test was a classic example of how tough and resilient India can be.” – Sachin Tendulkar 
  4. “It was just a matter of keeping your nerve and riding out the tough patches, which we did brilliantly in the Mohali Test.” – Virender Sehwag 

Perth, 2008 

The Perth Test played in the 2008 Border-Gasvaskar Trophy also finds a mention in the list. Even though it only lasted four days, session after session saw the game switch back and forth between the two teams. The Anil-Kumble-led team rallied after falling behind 0-2 in the series to hurt the hosts and make it 2-1 going into the final Test.

5 Infamous moments in India vs Australia Test cricket history

Creator: Ezra Shaw | Credit: Getty Images Copyright: 2008 Getty Images

The Australians had not been defeated at WACA, Perth, by any team in more than eleven years at the time. To make it better, it was India’s first victory in Australia in more than four years. It was made even more significant for the Indian team and spectators because the Test victory in Perth occurred immediately after the SCG Test, which was plagued by numerous issues, notably the infamous Monkey Gate affair.

Which among the 5 Test matches is your favorite from the Border-Gavaskar Trophy? Also, who do you think will be the winners of the 2023 Border-Gavaskar Trophy?

Categories: Sports360
Smashing Techniques in Badminton you must know

Smashing Techniques in Badminton every player must know

By February 9, 2023 0

If you have been playing badminton and have reached a good level, this is the right time to learn the smashing technique. This is a great way to show some power in your game, making your opponent understand that you are a tough player. The best thing is that there is no defense for this shot which makes it unique compared to all the other shots played. 

What is smashing? 

A Smash shot is taken by jumping in the air and hitting the shuttle with good force. This shot can be played well if the speed and direction of the shuttlecock are kept in mind, as it has to fall inside the court. It is done nicely when the cock is higher in the air as it will allow the player to hit it harder, and the angle of the cock will be downwards. This shot is much more difficult for the opponent to attempt because of the pace of the shuttlecock and the downward facing of it. 

  • Use your wrist, thumb, and shoulder to make the most out of this shot while extending your arm. 
  • To ensure that your smash shot lands perfectly, take a long deep breath so that your body releases all the stress in midair, which will lead to the smash having more energy and power. 
  • There is a concept among professionals called “injection of pace,” which means that while going for the smash shot, players should go toward it faster. 

Smashing techniques in Badminton every player must know

In this article, we will discuss three techniques of smashing in badminton that every badminton player must know of and use during play. The first being; 

Forehand Smash Technique 

man in white and red crew neck t-shirt and black shorts playing basketball

This kind of smash is also called an overhead smash. A player hits this by keeping the tempo inclined downwards. It is one of the oldest smashing techniques in the history of badminton.

Forehand smash can be perfected by those who are into cricket as well as those who know how to throw a ball with brilliant pace and angle then this will be perfected by them. It can be compared similarly to throwing a ball straight. 

This is not as simple as it seems, as few badminton tricks are essential to know while trying this shot. Here, angle and posture play an essential role in getting the shot right, so the opponent finds it difficult to hit it back. 

How to play it? 

  • Start by raising your non-racket hand and aligning it above your chin. This will help you to get a nice angle while taking this shot. It is essential to get this shot right, even if it seems unrelated, as this step will ensure that your direction and pace are right. 
  • For good balancing, make sure that you are keeping most of the weight towards your rear foot. You can be careful by doing this, as it will save you from attempting a self-shot or getting a foul play. 
  • Your elbows should be kept straight. That will aid the racket to have a good fly in this shot. Keep your knees slightly bent while taking this shot, and your racket foot should be forward. 
  • Be on your toes with a ready mindset that will make your body act accordingly to take the forehand smash and have a strong forehand grip to see the results.

Backhand Smash Technique 

Badminton Asia Championships: Zii Jia among Malaysians reaching last eight | Stadium Astro - English

Creator: Zac Goodwin – PA Images | Credit: PA Images via Getty Images Copyright: PA Wire/PA Images

This smashing technique is difficult to crack, but if done rightly, it can be immensely useful. Experts also avoid this smash if they can, as it is not everybody’s deal to get this right. Let’s look at how to attempt this shot. 

How to attempt the shot: 

  • It is necessary to get the backhand grip because it is a challenging task to achieve. For this move, the racket should flow swiftly from the forehand to the backhand grip. For this smash, it is important to know the shots, angle, and swings perfectly, which means that the players have to ensure that all their senses are open to master the backhand smash. 
  • If possible, it is advised to go with the forehand shot rather than take this one, as the moment this smash is played should be chosen very carefully. It is good to avoid the risk of taking this shot until it is necessary. As a backhand smash can be difficult for your opponent to attempt, it is much tougher for you to handle it because it needs the right angle and pace to do so. 
  • Your body should be turned so your back is facing the net. You should do this step in seconds so that it is to be done quickly. In this, the balance should be weighted on the racket foot, as in this smashing technique, balance is of the essence. 
  • The racket head should be directed downwards as the racket should be kept overhead. You should ensure that your pace and mindset are set correctly to take the smash perfectly. If the grip is more powerful, it is understood that the smashing will also be of great power. This smash requires the players to return swiftly after hitting the preceding shot, as all of this is done in lightning-fast movements. 
  • For this smash, the angles of the shot should be perfect for taking it beautifully, or else it can ruin the entire game.

Jumping smash technique 

Image of Image of new badminton player attempting jump smash in multi shuttle strokes practice-EM653119-Picxy

In this technique, you have to jump higher and take the shot. This badminton smashing technique is great for releasing anger, as it requires a lot of power to get this shot. 

How to take this shot: 

  • This smashing technique requires a good understanding of timing. It all happens in seconds as it makes the opponent’s games weak by giving them less time to react to the shot. 
  • Injection of pace again plays a huge role here as it is necessary to hit the cock harder depending on how it is. 
  • Forehand grip is better to take this smashing technique which will aid in a great balance and a comfortable grip. 
  • Jumping results in the body getting tighter. For this, it is important to loosen it and have a firm stance to ensure that the return is faster. 
  • Your legs should be kept straight, while your knees should be slightly bent. The racket arm should be stretched as far as the player can so that there is some tempo in the shot. The non-racket arm also plays a bigger role because you have to keep it at your rib cage level, and when in midair, that hand should come sideways, which would then be straightened by the elbows. 
  • With the racket foot of the player, you have to drive in the downward direction. If you want a smooth jump, take a deep breath and exhale while hitting the smash.
  • If you need balance, keep your racket foot facing forward. For this shot, you must be conscious and alert to ensure that there is not even a second that goes to waste. 

Conclusion 

If you want to surprise your opponent, it can be done by disguising the shot. This will make your opponent miss the shot, giving you more points in return. These smashing techniques are not easy to attempt, but they can be done perfectly through training and immense practice. If you want to be like a pro player, it can be beneficial for you to watch some videos explaining smashing and various other ways to do it in detail. Focus and accuracy in smashing play a bigger role as well.

Categories: Sports360
7 Sachin Tendulkar records that won't be beaten

7 Sachin Tendulkar Records That Stand the Test of Time

By February 7, 2023 0

Sachin! Sachin!!! Almost every Indian has sat at home cheering enthusiastically when Sachin Tendulkar was on the pitch. Cricket, as a sport, has witnessed remarkable talent throughout its history. Among the many extraordinary individuals who graced the game, Sachin Tendulkar’s name shines brighter than most. The legendary Indian batsman not only rewrote the record books but also established a legacy that seems impervious to being surpassed.

Can you believe it? Sachin Tendulkar has scored over 34,357 runs and 100 centuries that makes it one of the unbreakable records in cricket history In this article, we delve into seven remarkable records held by Sachin Tendulkar that have become an integral part of cricketing folklore, destined to remain unchallenged for generations to come.

7 Sachin Tendulkar records that won’t be beaten anytime soon

100 international centuries

Sachin Tendulkar’s record of scoring 100 international centuries is an unparalleled feat in the history of cricket. His ability to consistently convert innings into centuries across various formats of the game stands as a testament to his exceptional skill, unwavering determination, and longevity. To this day, no other cricketer has come close to approaching this remarkable milestone.

This record of Sachin Tendulkar might never get broken in the sport of cricket. Sachin Tendulkar holds an extraordinary record that no other cricketer comes close to matching. Despite hopes that Virat Kohli might one day break this record, it now appears improbable. To date, only Sachin has scored a whopping 100 centuries in 782 innings, something no one has yet achieved. Sachin Tendulkar’s impressive record was obtained through years of commitment and dedication to cricket. Known as the “God of Cricket,” he achieved tremendous success over his 24-year career, creating multiple records. Coming in a distant second to Sachin are Virat Kohli (73) and Ricky Ponting (71). 

Most international centuries in cricket: 

  1. Sachin Tendulkar: 100 
  2. Virat Kohli: 73
  3. Ricky Ponting: 71 
  4. Kumar Sangakkara: 63 
  5. Jacques Kallis: 62 

Most ODI runs in a calendar year 

Sachin the opener | Cricket | ESPNcricinfo.com

In April 1998, Sachin Tendulkar created a legendary moment in cricket history with his incredible batting performances in the Sharjah Desert Storm’. Fans were enthralled as Tendulkar, at his peak, outclassed Shane Warne with an aggressive style of batting. To date, these two magical innings remain some of the most cherished and remembered moments in Sachin’s and his fans’ lives. 

Sachin Tendulkar’s record of 1894 ODI runs in a single year has been untouched for 25 years. Sourav Ganguly and Rahul Dravid came close to breaking the record in the following year, but no one has achieved the feat so far. 

Most ODI runs in a calendar year:

  1. Sachin Tendulkar: 1894 (1998)
  2. Sourav Ganguly: 1767 (1999)
  3. Rahul Dravid: 1761 (1999)
  4. Sachin Tendulkar: 1611 (1996)
  5. Matthew Hayden: 1601 (2007)

Most runs at the ODI World Cup 

Sachin Tendulkar – Top ODI innings

Sachin Tendulkar is the only cricketer in history to have scored over 2000 runs in the World Cup. He finished with 2278 runs across 6 World Cups. Furthermore, Tendulkar holds the record for being the single highest scorer in a World Cup with 673 runnings in the 2003 competition. Sachin Tendulkar played with an average of 56.95 runs in the World Cup and maintained a strike rate of 88.98. Ricky Ponting is the second on the list. The Australian has scored 1743 runs in the World Cups. 

Most runs in World Cups 

  1. Sachin Tendulkar: 2278 runs
  2. Ricky Ponting: 1743 runs
  3. Kumar Sangakkara: 1532 runs
  4. Brian Lara: 1225 runs
  5. AB de Villiers: 1207 runs

15000+ runs and 150+ wickets in ODIs 

It’s no surprise that Sachin Tendulkar is the only cricketer to have scored over 15000 runs in his career. He was also a very handy bowler, especially during the early stages of his ODI career, taking 154 wickets with an average of 44. What made him truly unique was his ability to quickly switch between off-spin, leg-spin, and medium pace, depending on the situation. 

Sachin Tendulkar’s bowling skills were not just about the wickets he took but also about the way he used them to his advantage. He had great control of the ball and was often able to read the situation to anticipate what the batsman was likely to do. His bowling was a key part of his success in ODI cricket, and he even managed to bowl economically during the tough phases of a match, making him a valuable all-rounder. 

Sachin Tendulkar has always been humble when it comes to his bowling skills. He has said that while he is proud of what he achieved as a bowler, he is more proud that he contributed to the team’s success. He believes that his most important contribution as a cricketer was consistently delivering in the toughest of situations. 

Sachin Tendulkar has said, “I am proud of my bowling achievements, but more importantly, I am proud of being able to contribute to the team’s success. I believe the measure of a cricketer lies in how well they perform in the toughest of situations.”

Most Man of the Match awards in ODIs

CWC11: Sachin Tendulkar's 120 v England

Creator: DIBYANGSHU SARKAR | Credit: AFP via Getty Images Copyright: 2011 AFP

Sachin Tendulkar’s record of 62 Man of the Match awards in One-Day Internationals is a testament to his consistent match-winning performances throughout his illustrious career. He is well above Sanath Jayasuriya’s record of 48 Man of the Match awards. After them, there is quite a significant gap in numbers with Virat Kohli (37), Jacques Kallis (32), Ricky Ponting (32), and Shahid Afridi (32). Sachin Tendulkar’s one-day international record has long since been unmatched, and his Man of the Match awards are a testament to that. 

This incredible feat highlights his ability to rise to the occasion and deliver under pressure. Given the competitive nature of modern-day cricket and the ever-increasing pool of talented players, it is highly unlikely that any player will match this record.

Most international runs

With an astonishing tally of 15,921 runs in Test matches and 18,426 runs in One-Day Internationals, Sachin Tendulkar sits at the summit as the highest run scorer in both formats. Achieving such monumental milestones demands an extraordinary level of skill, commitment, and longevity.

Sachin Tendulkar holds an unassailable lead in the rankings for most international runs scored across all formats of the game, with 34357 runs, nearly 7000 runs ahead of the second-placed Kumar Sangakkara on the list. This is an incredible 20% difference. He also holds the record for being the highest run scorer in both ODIs and Test cricket, with Virat Kohli and Alastair Cook being the only two names capable of challenging these records. 

Most international runs: 

1) Sachin Tendulkar: 34357 runs

2) Kumar Sangakkara: 28016 runs 

3) Ricky Ponting: 27483 runs

4) Mahela Jayawardene: 25957 runs 

5) Jacques Kallis: 25534 runs

Most Test runs at number 4 

Sachin Tendulkar began his Test career by batting at different positions but eventually settled into the number four spot as an essential part of India’s batting line-up. The renowned number four batsman racked up an incredible 13,492 runs in this position. Number four is considered a crucial batting position in cricket, as the batsman typically follows the loss of two wickets. Former Sri Lankan ace Mahela Jayawardene holds the second-highest run count for a number 4 batsman, with 9,509 runs scored after the loss of two wickets. 

Other Sachin Tendulkar’s records which are very tough to break

Sachin Tendulkar is a once-in-a-lifetime cricketer. The things he has achieved on the field are impossible to achieve for any other cricketer. However, a few cricketers like Virat Kohli and Babar Azam are looking to break a few of them. Only time will tell whether these cricket players can break SRT’s records.

Here’s a look at some of the other records by Sachin Tendulkar.

Sachin Tendulkar hails Raina on his remarkable career - Rediff Cricket

Creator: Pal Pillai | Credit: Getty Images Copyright: 2010 Getty Images

Most fifty-plus scores

Virat Kohli might challenge Sachin Tendulkar’s record of most international centuries, but the Little Master’s record of most fifty-plus scores is likely to remain intact forever. Sachin Tendulkar scored 145 fifty-plus scores in ODIs, 27 more than the next-highest batsman, and 119 in Tests, 16 more than the runner-up. Sachin scored 264 fifty-plus scores in international cricket, an impressive 47 more than second-place Ricky Ponting (217). 

Most boundaries scored

It is highly unlikely that any player will be able to surpass Sachin Tendulkar’s tally of fours in Test and ODI formats. He hit around 2,058(+) fours in Test cricket and 2,016 in the ODI format, more than 400 fours ahead of the next-best player. When he retired, he had accumulated around 4,076(+) fours in international cricket, an astonishing 1,000 fours more than second-placed Kumar Sangakkara (3,015). 

Most International Matches Played

Sachin Tendulkar’s incredible 24-year career was capped off with his 200th Test match appearance, a record that is unlikely to be surpassed anytime soon as the second-most appearances belong to Ricky Ponting and Steve Waugh at 168. He also holds the records for most ODI (463) and international (664) appearances, which are an intimidating feat for players of the current generation. Mahela Jayawardene was close to breaking Sachin Tendulkar’s record of most international games played, as he featured in 448 One-Day Internationals and 652 total international games.

Conclusion

Sachin Tendulkar’s legacy as one of cricket’s greatest players is secured by an abundance of records that appear untouchable for the predicted future. His extraordinary achievements, including 100 international centuries, the highest run-scorer in Tests and ODIs, most Test centuries, and several other remarkable records, have set an impossibly high bar for aspiring cricketers. These records not only exemplify Tendulkar’s immense talent and longevity but also emphasise the challenges faced by any player seeking to surpass his achievements. As cricket continues to evolve and new stars emerge, Sachin Tendulkar’s records will continue to serve as a testament to his unrivalled greatness, etching his name indelibly into the annals of cricketing history.

While some of his records will certainly be beaten, there are many that are impossible to achieve for any other cricket player. What do you think which record of Tendulkar will be broken in the near future?

Categories: Sports360
MS Dhoni: The man with Golden Touch

7 instances when MS Dhoni proved he was one of the best finishers ever

By February 4, 2023 0

MS Dhoni can be termed the father of modern-day Indian cricket. The long-haired guy from Ranchi changed the fortunes of team India by winning them two World Cups in two different formats within a span of 4 years. MS Dhoni is touted as one of the best captains of all time for his top-notch captaincy over the years. MS Dhoni was a genius behind the stumps and a beast in front of it. There are very few cricketers in the world who can match MS Dhoni’s ability to hit the ball out of the park. 

MS Dhoni is a power-hitter, one of the finest in the business. He is known as the inventor of the helicopter shot, which requires maximum timing and strength. MS Dhoni is known as one of the best finishers in the game. The former Indian skipper is never under any pressure, which makes him better at his finishing role. MSD has given his fans some iconic moments right from the 2011 World Cup finals to 113* against Pakistan in 2012. These moments surely make MS Dhoni a legendary finisher; let’s have a look at them. 

7 instances when MS Dhoni proved he was one of the best finishers ever

64* vs Kings XI Punjab, 2016 

Rising Pune Supergiant vs Delhi Daredevils - Cricbuzz

Source: Cricbuzz

As Chennai Super Kings were given a two-year league suspension, MS Dhoni was in charge of the Rising Pune Super Giants. His team was already eliminated from contention for a postseason spot. However, Dhoni still used his big-hitting skills against Axar Patel despite this. In the final over, which Axar bowled, a young left-arm spinner at the time, RPSG required 23 runs to win. 

Dhoni dumped the second ball of the over for a maximum after refusing to take a single off the first ball. The next delivery was blocked from going for a boundary by Hashim Amla’s dive, and Dhoni once more instructed Ashwin to remain at the non-striker’s end. MS Dhoni smashed a four in the 3rd delivery and two sixes off the final two deliveries to secure one of the most memorable victories in IPL history. 

183* vs Sri Lanka, 2005

Mahendra Singh Dhoni walked out to bat in Jaipur following the loss of Sachin Tendulkar’s wicket in the first over itself. MS Dhoni slashed two sixes off Chaminda Vaas in the first over to start India’s chase for 299. He continued to manage the threat of Muttiah Muralitharan in 

the middle overs before making his century in 85 balls with the help of Upul Chandana’s bowling. Dhoni displayed great athleticism and skill throughout the match, even in the later stages, despite cramps, as he maintained a steady scoring rate. 

Dhoni finished his incredible innings with a tenth six, leading India to a successful conquest of the 299-run target with 23 balls remaining. His 183* is still the highest score made by a wicketkeeper in a men’s one-day international, and when he walked off the pitch, Kumar Sangakkara, the opposing ‘keeper who made an unbeaten 138*, was the first to greet him with a handshake.

113* (125) vs Pakistan, Chennai 2012 

 

Interestingly, MS Dhoni has played most of his iconic knocks against Pakistan. Pakistan was touring India for a three-match ODI series and a two-match T20I series. Team India decided to bat first against Pakistan in the first ODI, which was being played in Chennai. To everyone’s surprise, the Pakistani bowling duo of Junaid Khan and Mohammad Irfan made lightwork of India’s entire batting lineup as the hosts were down to 5 wickets with just 29 runs on the board. 

Skipper MS Dhoni was forced to enter the ground early. However, MSD, alongside Suresh Raina, carried India’s innings forward slowly but steadily. Ravichandran Ashwin also played a crucial part with the bat, scoring an unbeaten 39 runs. MS Dhoni remained not out till the end as he scored 113 runs off just 125 balls. Team India managed to post a decent total of 227 runs which was easily chased by Pakistan. MS Dhoni did everything to keep his side in the game. MS Dhoni deservingly won the “Man of the match” award for his solo effort against Pakistan. 

44* (58) vs Australia, Adelaide 2012 

Twitter celebrates as Mahendra Singh Dhoni turns 41: 'Scoring last over runs in big match easy for someone who collected ticket on crowded train' - Indiaweekly

Creator: Clive Mason | Credit: Getty Images Copyright: 2019 Getty Images

David Hussey and debutant Peter Forrest scored individual fifties to post a decent total for Australia while batting first against India. The iconic opening pair of Virender Sehwag and Gautam Gambhir handed India a decent start of 52 runs. Gambhir amassed a massive total of 92 runs, but other Indian batters failed to support the southpaw during the chase. MS Dhoni entered the crease when Gambhir got out, as India needed another 92 runs from the remaining 15 overs. 

Dhoni stitched an important partnership with Suresh Raina of 52 runs. However, the match went right down till the last over. India needed 12 runs off four deliveries, and Clint McKay was bowling for the Baggy Greens. Nevertheless, it was quite easy for India’s most efficient finisher as India won the match with two balls to spare. As he often does, Dhoni took the game to the end and then easily won it for his side. 

72* (46) vs Pakistan, Lahore 2006 

Shoaib Malik-led Pakistan posted a dominating total of 288 runs after choosing to bat first against arch-rivals India. Team India had a mammoth total to chase against a strong Pakistani bowling lineup, and it was never going to be easy. Adding to that, India lost two early wickets in the name of Gautam Gambhir and Irfan Pathan. Legends Sachin Tendulkar and Yuvraj Singh tried to stabilize India’s innings, but at one stage, the visitors were at 190 for 5. 

Team India needed 99 runs from just 15 overs and entered MS Dhoni. MS Dhoni didn’t waste any time to start his mayhem against Pakistan. Dhoni scored a total of 72 runs in just 46 balls, including 13 boundaries. MSD combined with Yuvraj Singh (79*) to win it for India with more than two overs in hand. A new finisher was born that day and later became one of the game’s greatest.

45* (52) vs Sri Lanka, Port of Spain 2013 

मुश्किल है महेंद्र सिंह धोनी के इन रिकॉर्ड्स को तोड़ना! - Ms dhoni unbreakable records in international cricket team india captain cool retirement tspo

Creator: SAEED KHAN | Credit: AFP via Getty Images

India was facing Sri Lanka in the finals of the tri-series, which included the two countries alongside the West Indies. Ishant Sharma’s stellar bowling figure of 5/30 bundled up the Lankans for a modest total of just 201 runs in 50 overs. However, the Indians had a shaky start during their chase, losing their first two wickets under just 27 runs. Rohit Sharma was carrying India’s innings as he scored a half-century and cemented a good 3rd wicket partnership with Dinesh Karthik of 50 runs. 

MS Dhoni entered the game when India was in a comfortable position of 139/4. However, the game took a quick turn as the Indian batters started falling like a house of cards, and suddenly, the Men in Blue were down to 9 wickets with 20 runs still required. The match went down to the wire as India needed 15 runs in the last over. MS Dhoni was on the strike, and Shaminda Eranga was given the responsibility of defending the total. The first ball of the last over went for a dot; however, Dhoni later finished the game by scoring 6, 4, and 6 in the next three balls and won it for India again. 

91* (79) vs Sri Lanka, Mumbai 2011 

Because of me, he came ahead of Yuvraj," Muralitharan on Dhoni's batting promotion in 2011 World Cup final

Creator: Michael Steele | Credit: Getty Images Copyright: 2011 Getty Images

The 2011 ODI World Cup finals were one of the most historic moments for the Indian fans as well as MS Dhoni’s career. No true team India fan can forget the winning six from MS Dhoni to seal the World Cup for India after a span of 28 years. Team India was to chase a huge total of 274 runs against a loaded Sri Lankan bowling attack. Virender Sehwag and Sachin Tendulkar got out early in the match, making it more difficult for India. Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir combined to put a third-wicket partnership of 88 runs. 

MS Dhoni’s decision to enter the game before Yuvraj Singh after Virat Kohli’s wicket was a gutsy move, but it turned out to be a great decision later. Gautam Gambhir is the unsung hero of the match, as he scored 97 runs when his side was in deep trouble. But MS Dhoni is still considered to be the hero of the World Cup.

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Is Jurgen Klopp's time at Liverpool up?

Is Jurgen Klopp’s time at Liverpool up?

By February 1, 2023 0

Liverpool’s season in the 2022-23 Premier League is going from bad to worse, and Jurgen Klopp is somewhere to be blamed for it. Although the German manager has long since attained legendary status at the club, this season has proven to be his most challenging since the beginning of his time at Anfield. Liverpool dropped to ninth and looks all set to miss Champions League action next season. Similarities have been made with Klopp’s final campaign at Borussia Dortmund, where he ultimately left the team because he felt he was no longer the appropriate person to make things better. His team was in a relegation battle at Bundesliga, so things aren’t quite that bad at Anfield yet, but there is rising uneasiness. 

Is Jurgen Klopp’s time at Liverpool up? 

Many footballing experts have also raised the topic of Jurgen Klopp’s exit from Liverpool, considering the state of the club in recent months. Liverpool regained their respectful status since the arrival of Klopp as the Merseyside reds won the Premier League over 30 long years. However, Jurgen Klopp’s reputation and image are tarnishing in the English top-flight league. After a disappointing loss against Real Madrid in the finals of the Champions League 2021-22, Liverpool finds themselves in the 9th position in PL’s points table with just 8 wins in 19 games and a total of 29 points. 

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Jurgen Klopp described Liverpool’s 3-0 loss against Brighton as one of the worst performances of the side under his regime. However, Jurgen Klopp is also aware of the threat of him losing his job if Liverpool fails to deliver as per expectations. Jurgen Klopp, in an interview in November last year, addressed that he might be axed if Liverpool underperforms. 

“My job is not only being here in the moment when the sun is shining, and someone gives us a trophy,” Jurgen Klopp said. “My job is also to be here when we are in a rough period. And I will do that, with all I have, and if possible even more — 100 percent.” “Everything will be judged on me now, and that is fine. When people look at me, they will say he looks tired. That is normal. But I am not. I cannot give that excuse.” 

“I think the judgment for this will be later in the season,” said Klopp. “Or, maybe, it will be at the end of the season where we say, ‘OK, obviously now that is it for this group of players… for this manager if you want’. “The question will be asked then, but, at the moment, it is not 100 percent fair to judge the team because we never had them all available. Especially now up front, top quality players, which isn’t helpful,” Klopp added. 

Is Klopp getting the axe?

Jurgen Klopp is touted as one of the best managers of the modern era. He took Liverpool to different heights after winning numerous trophies, including the Champions League in 2019. Liverpool then won their first Premier League in the 2019-20 season after over three decades. However, since then, the club has failed to grasp any major trophies. Although the manager can be held accountable for several performances this year, he is unquestionably not Liverpool’s biggest issue right now.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp reacts to facing Real Madrid

Creator: Marc Atkins | Credit: Getty Images Copyright: 2022 Marc Atkins

Klopp has done marvels with what he’s been given for years. Liverpool has experienced tremendous success while operating on a budget that is far lesser than teams like Manchester City. Liverpool is now feeling the effects of having been overextended for years. A shortage of funding for the team over the past years has been the main obstacle to continued success. The blame can be placed on Fenway Sports Group, and it would be in the best interest of all if they were to depart from the club. Supporters would rather keep Jurgen Klopp than any of the players on the roster, highlighting how imperative he is to the team despite the current poor form of the team. 

It is also essential to consider the number of serious injuries that have impacted the team this season. It will be only wise for the Liverpool fans to stay supportive of Klopp and wait patiently, even if their current results do not measure up to their past successes. Famous Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano has also confirmed that there is no threat to Jurgen Klopp’s job as of now. 

In his exclusive CaughtOffside column, Fabrizio Romano reported that Jurgen Klopp is in a safe position and that he and the organization are continuing to strategize the future of Liverpool together. Romano stated that one of the plans for the upcoming summer transfer window is to prioritize the acquisition of Borussia Dortmund midfielder Jude Bellingham. “I understand Liverpool fans will be concerned, but Jurgen Klopp is safe at the moment,” Romano said. “He’s 100% working with the club for the present and future. “As for transfers, the midfielder situation remains open until the end of the market; Liverpool keeps exploring options to find an opportunity while Jude Bellingham remains the priority for June.” 

Jurgen Klopp’s success at Liverpool 

Liverpool has experienced their all-time high in the 21st century under the management of Jurgen Klopp, highlighted by their first-ever Premier League title in 2020 and their sixth European crown in 2019. They also achieved a runners-up position in the Premier League twice, with a UEFA Champions League Final appearance in 2018 and 2020 and a UEFA Super Cup win in 2019. 

PL30: How Klopp transformed Liverpool into champions

Creator: John Powell | Credit: Liverpool FC via Getty Images Copyright: 2020 Liverpool FC

Under Klopp, the Reds have had a 76.5% win rate in their Premier League matches, one of the highest records in the division. In addition, the team ran a record-breaking unbeaten streak of 44 consecutive games in the Premier League in 2019-2020, with a total of 99 points earned in the season, a club record. 

Klopp’s tenure has seen a remarkable transformation in the team’s playing style from fast-paced attacking football to a more controlled and possession-based system. The German tactician has also made some key additions to the squad, signing notable players such as Alisson Becker, Virgil van Dijk, Mohamed Salah, and Fabinho, which has made Liverpool one of the most formidable teams in Europe. 

Klopp has developed a strong bond with the players and the club’s fan base, driving the team to unprecedented levels of success. The manager’s personality and leadership have been praised by many, and his charisma off the pitch has also become a hallmark of his managerial style. In 2022, Klopp became the longest-serving manager in Liverpool’s history and one of the longest-serving in the Premier League, an impressive feat that speaks to his success and stability at the club’s helm.

Considering the dismal form of the Reds this season, will the Liverpool management axe Jurgen Klopp from the manager’s role? Comment down what you think about Klopp.

Categories: Sports360
YONEX Astrox 77 Pro

Review: YONEX Astrox 77 Pro Badminton Racket

By January 30, 2023 0

What’s up, badminton fans? Enjoyed the YONEX Sunrise India Open? Well, I am sure most of you must be dejected by the Indian team’s performance at the high-profile tournament. But, at the same time, some of you might have been motivated by the spirited performance of great shuttlers like Viktor Axelsen and An Se Young.

Are you one of the aspiring shuttlers who wants to try their hand at a badminton racket? Or are you the one looking to upskill your gameplay with a better badminton racket?

The solution is YONEX Astrox 77 Pro Badminton Racket. The Astrox 77 Pro is by far the oldest of the Astrox models. If I remember correctly, this was the first racket Yonex made for the Astrox series. 

badminton racket of YONEX

In this review, we will be having a detailed look at the YONEX Astrox 77 Pro Badminton Racket. 

Which player uses the YONEX Astrox 77 Pro Badminton Racket?

The YONEX Astrox 77 Pro badminton racket is used by many famous players. One of them is Chen Yufei –the  2021 Tokyo Olympics Gold Medal Winner. She is the reigning Olympic champion. 

The badminton racket is also used by Kento Momota, the Japanese badminton player who was widely known for his skillful and relentless gameplay. He has won several major badminton tournaments, including two World Championships titles, two Asian Championships titles, and one All-England title.

Additionally, the YONEX Astrox 77 Pro Badminton Racket is also used by An Se Young, Huang Ya Qiong, and Huang Dong Ping.

Let’s look closely at the Pros and Cons of the YONEX Astrox 77 Pro Badminton Racket.

Pros of the Astrox 77 Pro

Developed for aggressive play, the Astrox 77 Pro racquet is designed to dominate every match. The head-heavy Astrox 77 Pro is a step up from the original model. This badminton racket has gone from using a blend of high-modulus graphite nanometric tungsten to high-modulus graphite and their relatively new NAMD graphite. 

YONEX astrox 77 badminton racke

It also differs from the Astrox 77 by having an energy boost cap that enhances the racket snapback to generate even more power. The YONEX badminton racket has an elongated shaft for more flex, improving smash performance. It also has a super slim shaft that reduces air resistance. Another plus point of the racket is the aero+box frame; the box part helps in power-hitting, and the aero part is used for faster movement.

Most of the features present in Astrox 77 are also available in the Astrox 77 Pro badminton racket, including the Isometric frame shape, rotational generator system, and super slim shaft. 

Developed for aggressive players, the YONEX Astrox 77 Pro Badminton Rackets are designed to dominate every match.

Cons of the Astrox 77 Pro

Although there aren’t many cons to the YONEX Astrox 77 Pro, the badminton racket feels quite stiff and has a head-heavy balance. Also, the badminton racket fails to generate power due to its stiffness. 

Overall Rating

Overall, the YONEX Astrox 77 Pro Badminton Racket scores heavily on power, control, and speed, garnering an average of 9 out of 10 in our ratings.

If you love to smash, then the YONEX Astrox 77 Pro Badminton Racket is the perfect racket for you. Get your hands on the hottest badminton racket from the Astrox series. Exclusively available on God of Sports.

Categories: Sports360
5 famous handled-the-ball dismissals in cricket

5 famous handled-the-ball dismissals in cricket

By January 26, 2023 0

Nothing hurts more than getting out in an unfortunate matter. Be it a run-out or a hit-wicket; a batter dreads getting out in such a way. ‘Handled the ball’ is one such expression. A batsman might be dismissed for handling the ball under Law 33 of the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) if they intentionally touch the ball with one or both of their hands during a delivery while holding the bat in their hands. 

It is touted to be one of the unluckiest ways to get out. The batter is hapless to be dismissed since, more frequently than not, the infraction is unintentional rather than deliberate. When the batter notices the ball heading dangerously toward the stumps, their instincts can sometimes take control. Let’s have a look at some of the famous incidents when batters were given out for handling the ball. 

 

5 famous handled-the-ball dismissals in cricket 

  1. Brian Lara vs Australia (1993, Melbourne) 
  2. Steve Waugh vs India (2001, Chennai) 
  3. Andrew Hilditch vs Pakistan (1979, Perth) 
  4. Mohinder Amarnath vs Australia (1986, Melbourne) 
  5. Cheteshwar Pujara vs Leicestershire (2014, Derby) 

Brian Lara in 1993: West Indies vs Australia, Melbourne 

Brian Lara was famously dismissed in 1993 during the West Indies vs Australia match. He handled the ball and was declared out. Brian Lara was trying to field a shot that he misjudged and ended up touching the ball with his glove. The umpire immediately declared him out and the West Indies went on to lose the match. This dismissal has gone down in cricket history as one of the most famous handled-the-ball dismissals. The bowler who delivered the ball that led to Brian Lara’s dismissal was Glenn McGrath. 

On This Day - Brian Lara Single-Handedly Demolishes Australia In 1999 - News Nation English

Creator: Ben Radford | Credit: Getty Images

Commentators at the time said that this dismissal was a turning point in the match as it changed the momentum and gave Australia the upper hand. They praised the umpire’s quick decision and called it a great example of good officiating. They also praised Lara for accepting the decision gracefully. One commentator said: “Lara’s dismissal could be the defining moment of the match. The umpire made the right call, and Lara accepted it with grace. That’s cricket.” 

Brian Lara reportedly said: “It was a mistake on my part, and the umpire made the correct call. It is always sad to be dismissed in such a manner, but I accept it.” After the game, Lara joked that he was so surprised by the dismissal that he had to ask the umpire if he was out. He also said that it was a learning experience and a reminder to always be alert while batting.

Steve Waugh in 2001: India vs Sri Lanka, Chennai 

India’s historic 2-1 Test series win over Australia in 2001 is a source of pride for every Indian cricket fan. The match in Kolkata was especially memorable as India managed to give the Australians a follow-on, resulting in an embarrassing defeat for the top-ranked team.

Steve Waugh's brutal response to Shane Warne sledge | 7NEWS

Creator: Adam Pretty

During the Chennai Test, Steve Waugh was coming out to be a difficult batsman as he was batting at 47. Harbhajan Singh, one of India’s legendary spinners, was trying hard to break through the defenses of Steve Waugh. Waugh missed a sweep against the off-spinner, and it appeared that the ball spun too late and moved in the direction of the stumps. At that point, Waugh pushed the ball away with his hands, resulting in him getting declared out. 

With this dismissal, Steve Waugh became the sixth batsman in Test matches to be given out for handling the ball and the eighth batsman overall at that time. Steve Waugh reportedly said: “I knew I was in trouble the moment I lifted my hand to the ball. It wasn’t intentional and I accept the umpire’s decision.” 

Andrew Hilditch versus Pakistan (1979, Perth) 

In a Test match against Pakistan in Perth, Andrew Hilditch suffered one of the rarest handled-the-ball dismissals. Standing at the non-striker’s end with a score of 29, Hilditch blocked an incoming wide throw with his hands and handed the ball to the bowler Sarfaraz Khan. The bowler appealed to the umpire, who declared Hilditch out for handling the ball. It is the only incident where a non-striker was given out for handling the ball. 

New opening batsman Andrew Hilditch in action in the nets.Australian... News Photo - Getty Images

Creator: Fairfax Media Archives | Credit: Fairfax Media via Getty Images

This incident caused a lot of debates in the cricket world, as it was seen as against the ethics of the game. The fact that a non-striker was dismissed in such a manner is still considered to be highly unusual. Many critics felt that this dismissal was the result of an unconventional interpretation of the laws of cricket. The incident has caused much debate over the years, as it is rarely seen in cricket. 

Many commentators have expressed their views on this incident. One commentator said: “It’s the most unusual and bizarre way to be given out in cricket. Andrew Hilditch was given out for an act that went against the ethics of the game.” Andrew Hilditch reportedly said: “I was shocked and surprised by the umpire’s decision. I was trying to do the right thing, but I accept that the umpire made the right call according to the laws of cricket.” 

Mohinder Amarnath versus Australia (1986, Melbourne) 

1983 World Cup winner Mohinder Amarnath lost his wicket in the most unlikely way during the 1986 India-Australia one-day international series. Amarnath, who was batting at a total of 15 runs, was up against off-spinner Greg Matthews. The delivery was flighted by the bowler and spun off the deck. On the other hand, Amarnath played the ball with gentle hands and didn’t seem bothered by the turn. 

5 Unique records held by Indians in List A cricket

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Amarnath attempted to cut the ball at first with barely any foot movement but ultimately had to defend it in an awkward position. The ball bounced off the ground in the direction of the stumps, and Amarnath instinctively responded by using his hands to bat it away. As the Australians prepared to appeal, Amarnath belying his misstep with a smile, walked slowly to the pavilion.

Cheteshwar Pujara versus Leicestershire (2014, Derby) 

India’s Cheteshwar Pujara was given out for handling the ball in a County Championship Division Two match between Derbyshire and Leicestershire. He was the 59th first-class player overall and only the second Indian, after Mohinder Amarnath, to experience this sort of dismissal. He also became the first player to get out in this manner in England since Karl Krikken of Derbyshire did so in 1996. 

BAN v IND 2022: “Indian Test batting still needs him,” Sanjay Manjrekar heaps praise on Cheteshwar Pujara

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While batting at number six, Cheteshwar Pujara played a fastball from left-arm seamer Atif Sheikh without much difficulty. However, upon looking back, he quickly slapped the ball, which appeared to be headed toward the stumps. Pujara was eventually declared out after it was confirmed via replays that he handled the ball.

Categories: Sports360
Longest Tennis matches of all time

Revisiting the Longest Tennis Match of All Time

By January 23, 2023 0

Tennis is a challenging sport. It is a contest of talent, cunning, and accuracy. The game continues until one player scores the required number of points or until a player quits or retires in the middle of the court due to injury or exhaustion and is unable to continue. This is the precise reason why games that last a long time are so appealing.

The audience is kept on the edge of their seats by it. Exactly this is what happened on January 30, 2022, when Rafael Nadal, one of the greatest players of all time, defeated Daniil Medvedev at the Australian Open 2022. The 5 hours, 24-minute final was won by the Spaniard. In addition, it allowed Nadal to surpass players like Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic by becoming the first tennis player to win 21 Grand Slam titles. Despite this, the match isn’t anywhere close to being the longest tennis match ever played. 

However, the longest tennis match took place in 2010, which lasted for 11 hours and 5 minutes. It was played between John Isner and Nicolas Mahut at Wimbledon. The match began on Tuesday, 22 June 2010 and lasted until Friday of the same week. During this time, John Isner and Nicolas Mahut played 183 games in total. The match’s final score was 6-4, 3-6, 6-7 (7-9), 7-6 (7-3), and 70-68 for Isner. 

Both players endured considerable physical and mental exhaustion during the match to reach this point, with Isner serving a total of 112 aces and Mahut 103. It was described as the greatest in tennis history by commentators and analysts alike. 

The longest Tennis match of all time: 

John Isner vs Nicolas Mahut: 2010 Wimbledon (11 hours and 5 minutes) 

John Isner and Nicolas Mahut broke several records during their match. Most notably, the match was the longest tennis match ever to be played in terms of time, lasting 11 hours and 5 minutes. It was also the match with the highest number of total games played (183) and the longest set (the fifth set lasted 70-68). The match also saw both players serve the most aces in a single match; Isner served 112 aces, while Mahut served 103. 

John Isner vs Nicolas Mahut

John Isner vs Nicolas Mahut

In total, John Isner and Nicolas Mahut served 215 aces during their 11-hour and 5-minute match at Wimbledon. The longest tennis match before the Isner-Mahut match was the men’s singles final at the 2004 French Open between Gaston Gaudio and Guillermo Coria. The match lasted six hours and 33 minutes, with Coria eventually winning 3-6, 3-6, 6-4, 6-1, and 8-6. 

Many people have praised the Isner-Mahut match for its remarkable display of skill and determination. Legendary tennis player Björn Borg referred to it as “a milestone in modern tennis”. Commentator John McEnroe lauded the match as “a great benefit for the world of tennis”, while American television personality Jimmy Kimmel described it as “an epic moment in sports history”. 

The men’s singles championship of the 2010 Wimbledon Championships was won by Rafael Nadal, who defeated Tomas Berdych in straight sets. John Isner and Nicolas Mahut both spoke about the match with great respect for their opponent. Isner said that he was “very proud to have been part of such an amazing occasion, ” while Mahut commented, “it was truly a special match, and I will never forget it.” 

John Isner said, “It was an honour to be part of such an incredible match, and I’m very proud to have been part of it. I wish the match could have gone on forever.”

Nicolas Mahut commented, “It was truly a special match, and I will never forget it. I’m lucky to have been part of history and I am sure it will remain a legendary moment in tennis.” 

Here are some interesting facts about the Isner-Mahut match 

– The match had a combined total of 909 points 

– The longest rally between the two players spanned 36 shots 

– Isner’s longest service game lasted over 40 minutes 

– The match was featured in the Guinness Book of World Records for being the longest tennis match ever played 

– Isner and Mahut were given a standing ovation when they completed the fifth set – It was the first time Wimbledon had to suspend play due to darkness 

– The match saw 205,000 people watched it live on the BBC website 

– It was the second-most viewed match at Wimbledon that year, behind the men’s singles final between Rafael Nadal and Tomas Berdych 

– It was the first time Wimbledon had to suspend play due to darkness 

 

What Tennis players had to say about the Isner-Mahut match: 

“The Isner-Mahut match was an extraordinary display of courage and endurance that will be remembered as one of the greatest sporting events of all time.” – Roger Federer 

“John Isner and Nicolas Mahut’s match at Wimbledon in 2010 was a remarkable display of human achievement and resilience.” – Novak Djokovic 

“What Isner and Mahut did at Wimbledon in 2010 was nothing short of incredible. They pushed tennis to its limits and showed us what it means to never give up.” – Andy Murray 

“The Isner-Mahut match was an incredible show of willpower, tenacity, and determination.” – Rafael Nadal 

“No other tennis match has made such an impression on me as the Isner-Mahut match. It was one of the most remarkable displays of endurance and sportsmanship that I have ever seen.” – Serena Williams 

“The Isner-Mahut epic produced a record that may never be broken and will live on in the annals of the greatest sporting moments of all time.” – Andy Roddick

Top 10 longest tennis matches of all time: 

  1. John Isner vs Nicolas Mahut – 2010 Wimbledon (11 hours and 5 minutes)
  2.  Fabrice Santoro vs Arnaud Clement – 2004 French Open (6 hours and 33 minutes)
  3.  Younes El Aynaoui vs. Andy Roddick – 2003 Australian Open (5 hours and 22 minutes)
  4.  Kevin Anderson vs. John Isner – 2018 Wimbledon (6 hours and 36 minutes)
  5.  Novak Djokovic vs. Juan Martín del Potro – 2013 US Open (5 hours and 53 minutes)
  6.  Roger Federer vs. Rafael Nadal – 2008 Wimbledon (4 hours and 48 minutes)
  7.  Novak Djokovic vs. Rafael Nadal – 2012 Australian Open (5 hours and 53 minutes)
  8.  Andy Murray vs. Novak Djokovic – 2012 US Open (4 hours and 54 minutes)
  9.  Michael Chang vs. Ivan Lendl – 1989 French Open (4 hours and 37 minutes)
  10.  Gilles Muller vs. Rafael Nadal – 2017 Wimbledon (4 hours and 48 minutes).
Categories: Sports360
IPL: Has it killed Test cricket?

IPL: Has it killed Test Cricket?

By January 19, 2023 0

T20 cricket cancels out the entire foundation of what the sport of cricket was initially based on during its establishment. The makers of cricket wanted it to be a gentlemen’s game, with the Test format being the oldest version of the sport. Time, days, or results were not the issue in Test cricket, whereas T20 demands entertainment plus results in a span of a few hours. 

Why did T20 cricket become famous? 

The T20 format was introduced in the 21st century, and its rise happened soon after India won the first T20 World Cup in 2007. The MS Dhoni-led team lifted the first World Cup, and it gave rise to the Indian Premier League, the biggest T20 tournament in the world to date. With the introduction of leagues like the IPL, the focus of the cricketing fans drastically shifted to the T20 format. 

Fans got the taste of a quicker, faster format with sure results within 4 hours. T20 handed more amusement than the two older formats. Test cricket was already in its dying stage, with “The Ashes” being one of the few events which were keeping the format alive amongst the fans. T20 was the antidote to the long, tedious hours of cricket, and it worked very well to rejuvenate the meaning of the game. 

The IPL has had a large influence on the game of cricket. It has drawn some top international players to the league and has become known for its exciting and high-scoring format. The shorter format of the matches has also allowed more opportunities for teams to come out on top, making it more difficult for any one team to dominate the tournament. 

The IPL has also had a major influence on cricket’s commercial and business side, with the league’s massive success allowing teams to earn huge amounts of money in sponsorships and broadcasting rights. This has increased top players’ wages and increased investment in cricket’s infrastructure and youth development programs. The IPL has also been credited with creating new jobs in the sport and helping bring more attention and recognition to the game worldwide. 

While many fans, especially the younger generations, are glued to the T20 format, some have accused the shortest format of the game of killing the entire game. Is it true that T20 has killed Test cricket? Or it’s just an accusation without any base? Let’s have a look at it. 

IPL: Has it seriously killed Test cricket? 

Now, many fans are against the whole idea of T20 cricket as it is considered to be killing Test cricket slowly. However, the fans have already drifted away from the Test format and were only interested in the ODIs. But as soon as IPL came into the picture, it hijacked the market completely. Fans went berserk for the shortest format as the fours, and massive sixes were not a sight of novelty. 

The financial rewards from playing in the IPL have also had an effect on Test cricket. Many of the top players are now opting to play in the IPL rather than participate in test cricket, which can affect the traditional form of the game. It is difficult to say whether the Indian Premier League (IPL) has had a direct and negative impact on test cricket. The IPL has certainly changed the landscape of cricket, but it is still too soon to evaluate its long-term effects on the world’s oldest form of the game. 

MS Dhoni won the toss and inserted Mumbai Indians in to bat.

Source: Cricbuzz

Many experts have suggested that the IPL could provide a boost to test cricket by bringing more fans and attention to the game. However, there are also concerns that the intense IPL schedule could put too much strain on players and potentially lead to injuries or further fatigue if they are not given enough rest and recovery time. Ultimately, it is hard to say what the long-term effects of the IPL on test cricket will be, but it is clear that the competition has had an overall impact on the game and its future. 

The IPL’s influence on cricket is not limited to just Test cricket. The league has been credited with introducing the sport to new audiences, helping to drive up interest in cricket worldwide. It has also helped fund projects such as improved facilities, training programs, and academies for young players all around the world. Additionally, the IPL has brought in new rules and regulations, as well as innovations such as pitch technology and third-umpire decisions, which have all had an effect on the game of cricket as a whole. 

IPL, PSL, and BBL all came into the existence as the T20 format started running for the entire year. And as it is rightly said, too many cooks spoil the dish. The T20 format is sounding less and less amusing after 15 years of its existence due to the numerous numbers of matches per year.

As opposed to all the accusations, the T20 format has done more good to Test cricket than harm. People have slowly started enjoying Test cricket again as they want a break from the one-sided batting-oriented games. While the fans also enjoy the fast-paced games in T20 cricket, they also want to see technicality and aggression in the purest format of the game. Virat Kohli’s era as India’s Test captain greatly helped the format. The aggression bought into the game influenced and also seemed attractive to the newer generations. 

The same work is being done by Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum as they are re-defining Test cricket as a whole via ‘Bazball’. The T20 World Cup winners have set new heights in the Test format, which is as interesting as it can get. Credit for England’s new mentality toward Test cricket should also be given to the T20 format. The T20 format has taken sports to undiscovered places. The T20 format, especially IPL, has even handed many modern-day Test aces like Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant, Washington Sundar, and Shardul Thakur. So, in our opinion T20 format has benefited the growth of Test cricket. 

VISAKHAPATNAM, INDIA – MAY 10: Trent Boult of the Delhi Capitals celebrates taking the wicket of Faf Du Plessis of the Chennai Super Kings during the Indian Premier League IPL Qualifier Final match between the Delhi Capitals and the Chennai Super Kings at ACA-VDCA Stadium on May 10, 2019 in Visakhapatnam, India. (Photo by Robert Cianflone/Getty Images)

The success of the IPL has also had other positive effects, such as encouraging more international players to participate in the competition, bringing together different cultures, and creating opportunities for talented players worldwide. Additionally, the IPL has helped to re-engage traditional cricket fans and bring in new ones, driving up viewership and helping the sport reach new heights. Ultimately, the IPL has had a major impact on test cricket and cricket as a whole, and its influence is likely to continue for years to come. 

Test cricket has always been the best format of the game, and it will continue to be the same for generations to come. The T20 structure is like a breath of fresh air and has handed the fans more reasons to love the sport. Having said that, top cricketers of top countries still prefer Test cricket over lucrative leagues like IPL and PSL. Cricketers are ready to let go of their million-dollar deals to represent their country in the red-ball format. 

Here are some of the famous quotes about the IPL: 

  1. “The IPL has changed the face of cricket in India and it’s been a wonderful journey for many of us.” – Mahendra Singh Dhoni
  2. “The IPL has caught the imagination of the masses and I think it is here to stay.” – Sachin Tendulkar
  3. “IPL is an incredible platform which has opened up avenues for a lot of youngsters who have got a chance to show their talent.” – Virat Kohli
  4. “IPL has been a great platform to measure a cricketer’s skills and talent.” – Yuvraj Singh
  5. “The IPL has become a global phenomenon and I’m proud to be part of it.” – Brian Lara
  6. “It has always been amazing to play in the IPL. The quality of the cricket and the audiences have only made it better.” – Shane Warne

There are pros and cons. While it has led to shorter attention spans, IPL has led players to play a very exciting form of cricket that no longer leads to boring dead rubbers. Do you think IPL has killed Test cricket?

Categories: Sports360
The best Indian Badminton Players to watch out for in the 2023 India Open

The best Indian Badminton Players to watch out for in the 2023 India Open

By January 12, 2023 0

Badminton. It is one of the most watched sports in India. After Cricket and Football, Badminton manages to get the most viewership. Such is the popularity of the sport that it has a league of its own. Named Pro Badminton League, the Indian badminton league is one of the top badminton leagues in the world. Its playing field features the top Indian and international badminton talent in the world, including Olympic and World Championship Medal Winners.  

Players like PV Sindhu, Saina Nehwal, Lakshya Sen, Kidambi Srikanth and Parupalli Kashyap have become household names today. These badminton players have made the nation proud by representing the nation on the international podium and winning accolades. 

The YONEX Sunrise India Open 2023 will start on 17th January. Many Indian shuttlers will get a chance to showcase their talent. From Lakshya Sen to Krish Desai, many talented badminton players will be on the grandest stage. And the audience will have a keen eye on these shuttlers.

Here’s a closer look at the top 11 Indian Badminton Players to watch out for in the 2023 India Open tournament.

Men’s Singles

Priyanshu Rajawat

Priyanshu Rajawat is an Indian badminton player. He was part of the Indian team that won the 2022 Thomas Cup. The Indian shuttler has the highest World rank of 47. 

Priyanshu Rajawat with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi

Source: Instagram/ @rajawatpriyanshu

The teenage sensation has won the 2019 Bahrain International, 2021 Ukraine International, 2021 India International Challenge and 2022 India Chattisgarh International Challenge. Additionally, the shuttler was runner-up in the 2022 Bangladesh International.

Currently, the Indian badminton player has a World Tour rank of 51.

 

Women’s Singles

Aakarshi Kashyap

Aakarshi Kashyap is an Indian badminton player. She was selected to be part of the Indian team at the 2018 Asian Games. She was also a part of the national women’s team that won the gold medal in the 2019 South Asian Games.

Aakarshi Kashyap playing bafminton

1,069 Commonwealth Games Sri Lanka Photos and Premium High Res Pictures – Getty Images

Source: Creator: Stephen Pond        Credit: Getty Images        Copyright: 2022 Getty Images

The high-profile shuttler has won 2020 Kenya International, 2022 Maldives International and 2022 Bangladesh International. Ms. Kashyap was on the losing end of the major finals twice. She lost the finals during the 2018 Bulgarian International and 2020 Uganda International. 

Currently, she has a World Rank of 32 in Women’s Singles and a World Tour Rank of 37.

Ashmita Chaliha

Ashmita Chaliha is an Indian badminton player. Born and brought up in Guwahati, she began playing badminton at the age of seven and trained at the Assam Badminton Academy under Indonesian coach Edwin Iriawan and India’s Suranjan Bhobora, she was also coached by Pullela Gopichand for the Asian Games. Chaliha was part of the national junior team that competed at the 2017 World and Asian Junior Championships.

Ashmita Chaliha pick up the shuttlecock by racket in badminton

Source: Instagram/ @ashmichaliha

She was selected to be part of the Indian team for the 2018 Asian Games in Indonesia. Chaliha won her first senior international title at the 2018 Dubai International Challenge in the women’s singles event. She was the gold medalist at the 2019 South Asian Games in the women’s singles and team events.

The Indian shuttler won a Gold medal at the 2019 South Asian Games, winning two straight sets; 21–18 and 25–23. Ashmita Chaliha also won the 2018 Tata Open India International and 2018 Dubai International. Chaliha lost the 2022 Bangladesh International finals against Aakarshi Kashyap.

Tasnim Mir

Tasnim Mir is a former BWF World Junior Number 1 player. She is the first Indian to grab the World Number 1 ranking in the Under-19 girls singles in the BWF junior rankings. The feat hasn’t been achieved by any other badminton player,  including two-time Olympic medallist P V Sindhu and London bronze winner Saina Nehwal.

Tasnim Mir

                                                                                          Source: Twitter/ @Tasnimmir_india

Tasnim has won the 2022 Iran Fajr International and the 2022 India Chattisgarh International Challenge. As a junior, the shuttler has won the 2019 Dubai Junior International, 2020 Nepal Junior International, 2021 Bulgarian Junior International, 2021 Alpes Junior International and 2021 Belgian Junior International.

She has also participated in the doubles category. She has won the 2019 Dubai Junior International with Ayan Rashid. 

Women’s Doubles

Tanisha Crasto/ Ashwini Ponnappa

Tanisha Crasto & Ashwini Ponnappa

                                                                                                           Source: Indian Express

Former World Championship medallist Ashwini Ponnappa has teamed up with Tanisha Crasto. The formidable pairing will definitely be having a great YONEX Sunrise India Open. With Gayatri Gopichand and Treesa Jolly cracking the Top 20, Ashwini – Tanisha can get into the mix to offer two competitive challenges from the home side.

Tressa Jolly/ Gayatri Gopichand

Tressa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand playing badminton

                                                                                                                        Source: ESPN.in

Gayatri Gopichand and Tressa Jolly are heavily bet to win big at the YONEX Sunrise India Open tournament. The duo, who are in incredible form, upset the second-seeded Korean pair of Lee Sohee and Shing Seungchan at the 2022 All-England Championships.

Mixed Doubles

Ishaan Bhatnagar/Tanisha Crasto

Ishaan Bhatnagar and Tanisha Crasto

                                                                                                           Source: Times of India

Eighteenth-seed Indians Ishaan Bhatnagar and Tanisha Crasto will be in the mix at YONEX Sunrise India Open. The duo, who have already clinched the mixed doubles title at the Syed Modi International badminton tournament, will look to add more to their tally. 

Akshan Shetty/ Simran Singhi

The Indian duo of Akshan Shetty and Simran Singhi are the latest duo in the mixed doubles category. The pair has participated in a total of 4 tournaments and earned 11620 points in total. 

Rohan Kapoor/ Reddy Siki

Rohan Kapoor and Reddy N Siki are ranked 66 in the BWF mixed doubles rankings. The Indian duo has participated in a total of 6 tournaments and earned 15890 points in total. 

So that’s it. These are the top Indian badminton players who are expected to surprise everyone with their performances at the YONEX Sunrise India Open.

Do you think there are any other badminton players who deserve a mention? Comment down your thoughts.

Categories: Sports360
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