As team India returns to action in test cricket after over six months, they have decided to go with a pace attack on a traditional spin track of MA Chidambaram Stadium.
This decision has taken all the fans by surprise and sparked debate across social media, with everyone wanting to know what’s India’s play here.
This time the composition of the pitch is a bit different from before, as it has been prepared with a significant amount of red soil, which is known to produce more bounce.
Management considered these factors while putting together the high quality pace attack. This may also be a preparation for their encounter with the Aussies later this year.
Australia, known for its fast and bouncy pitches, tests the batsmen. And as India aim to get their third consecutive test series win in Australia, they are ensuring that their pacers are at their prime form.
This can also be to disrupt Bangladesh’s momentum as they come in red form after dominating Pakistan for a 2-0 series clean sweep.
Nevertheless, India also has a strong spin attack and will be looking to get a series win and maintain their home record.
The Indian Premier League (IPL) is not just a cricket tournament; it’s a carnival of emotions. Every season, this cricketing spectacle brings together millions of fans, glueing them to their screens, cheering for every run, every wicket, every dive, and every save.
The Indian Premier League, which commenced in 2008, has become a blockbuster success for the Board of Control for Cricket in India. The Indian Premier League (IPL) has seen significant revenue growth in recent years, with the total revenue for 2023 reaching ₹11,769 crore. With the cash registers ringing during the Indian summer season, the players have also benefitted from its success; resulting in giving us thrilling and nerve-wracking matches.
Well, who can forget the last-ball six by Mumbai Indians’ player Aditya Tare on the bowling of Rajasthan Royals’ James Faulkner? Or Kolkata Knight Rider’s batter Rinku Singh’s exploits in the final over against Gujarat Titans bowler Yash Dayal? The IPL has seen more unforgettable matches over the course of its 18-year history. In this article, we will be looking at the top 11 nail-biting thrillers played in the Indian Premier League.
Mumbai Indians vs. Chennai Super Kings, 2019 Final
One of the most memorable IPL finals, the 2019 showdown between Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings, was a classic. With just two runs required off the last ball, Lasith Malinga bowled a stunning yorker, trapping Shardul Thakur LBW, and sealing a one-run victory for Mumbai. A finish that left both camps and fans on the edge of their seats!
Rajasthan Royals vs. Kolkata Knight Riders, 2009 Super Over
The early days of IPL witnessed the first-ever Super Over, and it was a stunner! Rajasthan Royals tied with Kolkata Knight Riders in a high-scoring contest in Cape Town. The match went to a Super Over, where Yusuf Pathan’s heroic hitting sealed the deal for Rajasthan in a game that was nothing short of a rollercoaster.
Royal Challengers Bangalore vs. Kings XI Punjab, 2016
The 2016 IPL season saw some incredible matches, but RCB vs. Kings XI was something special. Chasing a target of 175, Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers went ballistic, scoring at a breathtaking pace. But the real drama unfolded in the last over when RCB needed just 1 run with 3 balls remaining and they lost two wickets before finally getting over the line. It was a match where even the winning fans were left biting their nails!
Mumbai Indians vs. Rising Pune Supergiant, 2017 Final
The 2017 final was another heart-stopper featuring Mumbai Indians. Batting first, Mumbai posted a modest total of 129. But their bowlers fought tooth and nail, and it all came down to the last over. With 7 needed off the final 4 balls, Pune stumbled, losing by a mere run. It was a game where every single run counted and every ball felt like a final showdown.
Kolkata Knight Riders vs. Royal Challengers Bangalore, 2014
A run-fest that turned into a thriller! RCB posted a daunting 195 with Chris Gayle’s blistering innings. In response, KKR needed 9 off the last over. A manic display of power-hitting by Yusuf Pathan ensured they crossed the finish line with three balls to spare, but not before fans had gone through a rollercoaster of emotions.
Chennai Super Kings vs. Kings XI Punjab, 2010
One of the earliest thrillers of IPL, this match saw Kings XI Punjab pull off an incredible win against Chennai Super Kings. With CSK needing 10 off the last two balls, MS Dhoni smashed a six, bringing the equation down to 4 off the final ball. In a moment of brilliance, Irfan Pathan bowled a perfect yorker to deny Dhoni and snatch a win from the jaws of defeat.
Sunrisers Hyderabad vs. Kolkata Knight Riders, 2021
A recent addition to the list of nail-biters, SRH vs. KKR in 2021 was a low-scoring thriller that kept everyone on edge. Defending a modest total, KKR’s bowlers kept chipping away with wickets, and it all came down to 2 runs off the last ball for SRH. Prasidh Krishna bowled a dot, and KKR won by the slimmest of margins, showing that even low-scoring games can provide heart-stopping entertainment.
Mumbai Indians vs. Rajasthan Royals, 2014
In a match that defined drama, MI needed to chase down 190 in 14.3 overs to qualify for the playoffs. Corey Anderson played an innings for the ages, but it all came down to the final delivery, with Aditya Tare hitting a six that sent MI through, breaking Rajasthan hearts in one of the most dramatic conclusions to a league stage game.
Delhi Capitals vs. Kings XI Punjab, 2020
An absolute cliffhanger that went into a Super Over! Both teams ended their innings on 157, forcing the game into a Super Over where Kagiso Rabada showcased his brilliance by defending a low total and leading Delhi Capitals to a memorable win.
Chennai Super Kings vs. Royal Challengers Bangalore, 2012
The 2012 clash between CSK and RCB saw one of the greatest chases in IPL history. Chasing 206, CSK needed 43 off 2 overs. Albie Morkel turned the match on its head with a blitzkrieg of 28 runs in one over, and Dwayne Bravo finished the job, sealing a last-ball victory. A game that left fans breathless till the very end!
Kings XI Punjab vs. Mumbai Indians, 2020
This match was nothing short of an emotional rollercoaster, going into two Super Overs! After both teams tied twice, it was eventually Punjab who emerged victorious, thanks to Chris Gayle’s power-hitting and Mohammed Shami’s pinpoint yorkers. It was the first time in IPL history a match had two Super Overs, and fans were treated to cricket at its absolute best.
These nail-biting matches are a testament to the intensity and competitiveness in which the Indian Premier League is played. The thrill of last-ball finishes, the drama of Super Overs, and the unpredictable twists and turns make every match a spectacle. As we prepare ourselves for yet another unpredictable yet entertaining season, we can only wonder “Which IPL teams will make it to this list this season?”
During the Border Gavaskar trophy, team India recorded their lowest score of 36 all out at the Adelaide oval against Australia in 2020.
This was one of the darkest times for the India team as the players felt low as even after a 53 run lead in the first inning they couldn’t capitalize for a victory. They could only set a target of 90 which the Aussies chased with ease.
Ashwin on Vimal Kumar’s youtube channel reveals that after the defeat when the players were down, Ravi Shastri, then head coach lifted the spirit up by arranging a Karaoke session with old hindi songs.
And after the first test, Virat Kohli was to head home for the birth of his first child. So the team decided to set small targets and achieve them.
Ajinkya Rahane who filled the shoes of Kohli after a crushing set back, didn’t give up as the team started playing some inspiring cricket. Leading to the last test where India broke the fortress of Gabba.
And as India prepares to play against Australia later this year, India can inspire themselves by looking back to their comeback in the absence of Virat Kohli and with a young team.
Ravichandran Ashwin’s stats show how he has impacted the modern game of cricket and has been one of the prolific spinners that has ever played for India.
Ashwin currently is the second highest wicket taker for India in international cricket and is the best test bowler and second best all-rounder.
Even with a lot of records under his belt, Ashwin desires to achieve a record which usually no bowler desires.
Ahead of India’s clash against Bangladesh in Chennai, in Vimal Kumar’s youtube channel, Ashwin revealed that he wishes to hit six sixes in an over and hilariously added that he could never quite get there.
“Ek over mein 6 chakke marna chahta hoon , par kabhi hua he nahi kabhi,” Ashwin said as he also opened up about his retirement plan that when he feels he can’t improve further, he will say goodbye to the sport.
The star spinner made his test debut in 2011 against West Indies, and since then scalped a staggering 516 wickets at an economy rate of 2.81.
With the two match test series against Bangladesh at the corner, starting on September 19 at the Chepauk Stadium, Chennai, all eyes would be on the team as they would try to maintain their home record.
The atmosphere in Chennai was charged as Kohli showcased his formidable skills during practice on September 15, 2024. The video shared by Jio Cinema highlighted a powerful six that genuinely rocked the stadium, breaking through a wall near the dressing area.
Kohli’s big hit comes just days before the Indian cricket team embarks on a two-match Test series against Bangladesh, starting on September 19. His much-anticipated return to the Test format, is an exciting development for fans and players alike.
Kohli stands just 58 runs shy of reaching 27,000 runs in international cricket, a milestone that would set a new record for the fastest to achieve this feat.
After his impressive display, Kohli had an extensive conversation with head coach Gautam Gambhir, discussing batting tactics and strategies to maximize his performance in the upcoming Tests.
During the training session, Kohli’s performance was marked by both power and precision. He tackled various bowlers, showcasing a range of shots that demonstrated his return to form after a period away from red-ball cricket.
The wall incident served as a powerful reminder of his batting intensity, as Kohli delivered shots with such explosive force that it became a viral moment on social media.
Teammates couldn’t help but joke about the “damages” to the venue, celebrating Kohli’s sensational hit with laughter and camaraderie. These instances lightened the mood as they prepare for competitive challenges ahead.
Kohli’s explosive hit at Chepauk not only serves as a reminder of his immense talent but also ignites optimism on the Indian side as they aim to maintain their home dominance in the matches to come.
In a candid statement, Younis Khan emphasized the significance of performance over mere talk, urging Babar to take inspiration from Indian superstar Virat Kohli.
Younis Khan has recently expressed his disappointment regarding Babar Azam and other players, criticizing them for prioritizing personal achievements over team success.
He pointed out that Babar has not scored a half-century in his last 16 Test innings, which has drawn significant criticism from former players. This ongoing form slump has intensified scrutiny over Babar’s role as both a batter and a captain.
During an event, Younis emphasized that if Babar and other top players deliver on the field, the results will be evident to everyone. He mentioned, “Humare players khelte kam, bolte zyada hai” (Our players tend to talk more than they perform).
Khan specifically highlighted Virat Kohli’s decision to step down from captaincy to concentrate more on his batting as a model for Babar to emulate. He stated, “Look at Virat Kohli. He chose to step down from captaincy on his own terms, and now he’s breaking records worldwide”.
Younis reminded Babar that his appointment as captain came because he was considered the best player at the time, and therefore, there are high expectations placed upon him.
He remarked that, “The only suggestion I have for Babar is that he should focus on his cricket”. This advice underscores the pressure on Babar not only to lead but also to perform consistently.
In addition to technical skills, Khan stressed the necessity for Babar to prioritize his fitness and work ethic. He noted that “opportunities like these don’t come around often,” urging him to seize the moment and give his best performance.
This reflects Younis’ understanding of the hard work that underpins success at the highest levels of cricket.
In what was supposed to be a thrilling moment for cricket enthusiasts, the one-off Test match between Afghanistan and New Zealand has sadly been abandoned without a single ball being bowled. This marks only the eighth time in history that a Test match has faced such a fate, casting a shadow over what could have been a significant occasion for both teams.
September 13, 2024, started with high hopes as this match would have been Afghanistan’s first-ever Test against New Zealand. Regrettably, the weather had other plans, with constant rainfall rendering the pitch and outfield unplayable. The officials had to make the tough call to cancel the match before the players could even toss a coin, leaving everyone feeling a sense of disappointment.
Since the inception of Test cricket in 1877, only seven prior matches have been abandoned without a ball being bowled, making this a truly rare event in the game’s storied history. The last incident occurred nearly 26 years ago, adding to the uniqueness of this situation.
Digging deeper into the reasons for the match’s cancellation reveals some of the infrastructural challenges faced by the Greater Noida venue. Reports indicate that the ground suffered from inadequate drainage facilities, hampering efforts to prepare the pitch for play.
Days of relentless rain saturated the outfield to the point where it became unmanageable, raising questions about the venue’s suitability for hosting international matches in the future.
The joy and excitement surrounding the ODI World Cup 2023 were not just felt on the cricket pitch; they also stirred a remarkable economic surge for India, as highlighted in a recent report by the International Cricket Council (ICC). The tournament has injected a stunning ₹11,637 crore (approximately $1.39 billion) into India’s economy, underscoring how deeply cricket resonates with the nation’s spirit. This impact goes beyond mere numbers, echoing the unifying power of sports that brings people together, igniting national pride and joy.
According to the ICC’s insights, the World Cup did far more than entertain; it propelled tremendous economic activity, primarily driven by an influx of cricket-loving tourists. Fans from across the globe descended on Indian cities, eager to experience the thrill of live matches. This surge in tourism not only gave a boost to hotels, restaurants, and local businesses but also allowed visitors to immerse themselves in India’s rich culture, creating a festive atmosphere as communities came alive with celebrations.
What truly set this World Cup apart was the way it sparked connections among fans. People from all walks of life gathered in packed stadiums, cafes, and homes, chanting for their teams and sharing unforgettable moments. The energy was palpable as strangers became friends, united by their love for cricket. Local communities organized vibrant match-day events, where families, friends, and fans came together to cheer, turning every game into a cherished memory.
The successful hosting of this prominent tournament also places India firmly on the global sports map. The triumphs of the World Cup not only position India as a premier destination for international sporting ev ents but also open doors for future tournaments, hinting at long-term benefits for the economy. With cricket so integral to Indian culture, this World Cup acts as a stepping stone toward sustained economic growth through sports and related activities.
Moreover, the ODI World Cup 2023 symbolizes much more than financial gains; it highlights the profound impact that sports can have on society. From creating jobs to stimulating local economies, cricket in India is a dynamic force that intertwines with the nation’s identity. As fans celebrate this exhilarating chapter of sports history, the positive ripples of the World Cup are likely to inspire and uplift communities for many years to come.
Virat Kohli is on the brink of making history as he approaches a significant milestone in his cricketing career, needing merely 58 runs to break Sachin Tendulkar’s long-standing record in international cricket. This rare opportunity has captivated the cricketing world and ignited discussions about his potential legacy. As he prepares for the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh, all eyes will be on him, and his fans await with bated breath for this momentous achievement.
For the first time in 147 years of international cricket, a player stands just 58 runs away from breaking a record that has been held by one of the sport’s greatest icons, Sachin Tendulkar. Kohli’s imminent achievement is poised to redefine benchmarks in cricket history, showcasing the evolution of the sport over the decades.
Virat Kohli, now 35 years old, has been a prominent figure in modern-day cricket, consistently demonstrating extraordinary skill and dedication. His career statistics are staggering; he has amassed 26,942 runs in just 591 innings. With a remarkable conversion rate and a penchant for high scores, Kohli has established himself as a legend in the making.
Currently, Sachin Tendulkar holds the record for being the fastest to reach 27,000 runs in international cricket, achieving it in 623 innings. Kohli, on the other hand, is on track to reach this milestone in fewer than 600 innings, which would demonstrate not only his talent but also his relentless work ethic.
As the Indian cricket team gears up for the Test series against Bangladesh, excitement is palpable among fans and analysts alike. Kohli’s ability to secure these runs in the upcoming matches could set the stage for a historic moment, where he potentially eclipses Tendulkar’s remarkable feat.
Kohli’s journey towards this milestone is not just about numbers; it embodies the essence of perseverance and excellence in cricket. Regularly compared to Tendulkar, Kohli has carved out his niche and has proven to be a formidable force. His next innings could very well add another illustrious chapter to an already remarkable career.
The cricketing community is buzzing with anticipation. Fans, commentators, and former players are rallying behind Kohli, hoping to witness this historic event. If he manages to achieve this feat, it will not only be a personal triumph but a celebration of cricket’s rich heritage as well.
In a significant shake-up ahead of the second round of the Duleep Trophy 2024, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced major changes to the ‘India’ squads, creating a buzz in the cricket community. Notably, Rinku Singh, whose explosive performances in domestic cricket have captured attention, has been roped in as a replacement. Meanwhile, star players Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant will not participate.
Rinku Singh’s inclusion reflects his remarkable rise in the cricketing scene, especially following his standout performances in the Uttar Pradesh Premier League (UPPL). This opportunity to represent India B in the Duleep Trophy presents a unique chance for him to showcase his talent on a larger stage. “It’s a dream come true for me,” Rinku expressed, adrenaline coursing through him as he prepares to make his mark. This moment not only signifies a new chapter in Rinku’s career but also a turning point for the selectors as they look for fresh talent to reinvigorate the team.
The absence of established players such as Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant raises eyebrows and reflects the strategic decisions being made as the Indian Test team gears up for their series against Bangladesh. Gill, who has captained India A, will be replaced by Railways’ Pratham Singh. Meanwhile, Pant’s recovery from a near-fatal car accident continues, preventing him from donning the Indian colors. Cricket enthusiasts remain hopeful for Pant’s swift return, as he is undeniably an asset to the team.
As the Duleep Trophy kicks off on September 12 in Anantapur, anticipation mounts for how the revised squads will perform. The revamped India squads, now led by Mayank Agarwal for India A, aim to build momentum ahead of the two-match Test series against Bangladesh starting September 19. The dynamic changes are viewed as a balancing act, integrating experienced players with emerging talent.
The BCCI’s decisions transcend beyond the immediate matches, emphasizing a broader vision for the future of Indian cricket. With Rinku Singh stepping into the spotlight, the management is clearly focused on identifying players who can contribute to the long-term success of the team. The chance for newer faces in the Duleep Trophy reflects an evolving strategy that prioritizes both performance and potential.
