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Category: Cricket

Mohammed Shami: Always Ready, Always Hungry, Always on Top

Mohammed Shami: Always Ready, Always Hungry, Always on Top

By September 3, 2024 0

Mohammed Shami, one of India’s premier fast bowlers, has consistently proven his worth across all formats. Despite initial setbacks, Shami has emerged as an indispensable asset, particularly in Test and ODI cricket.

In the 2023 ODI World Cup, Shami’s absence from the starting lineup raised concerns. However, upon his inclusion following Hardik Pandya’s injury, he unleashed a devastating performance, becoming the tournament’s leading wicket-taker.

Reflecting on his remarkable comeback, Shami humorously remarked at the CEAT Cricket Awards, “I’m habitual to it, I think.” He recalled similar situations in 2015, 2019, and 2023, where he seized opportunities after being initially sidelined.

“When I was given a chance, the performances, thanks to god, they never thought of dropping me again,” Shami said. “You can call it hard work, but I’m always ready for a chance. Only when you’re ready can you prove yourself.”

Shami’s unwavering determination and hunger for success were evident in his comments. Despite facing setbacks, he remains focused on seizing every opportunity.

India coach Rahul Dravid and captain Rohit Sharma couldn’t help but laugh at Shami’s playful jab at them. Their reactions spoke volumes about the respect and admiration they hold for the fast bowler.

Shami has been sidelined since the World Cup due to injury but is expected to return for India’s Test series against Bangladesh starting on September 19. His presence will undoubtedly bolster India’s bowling attack and enhance their chances of success.

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Harbhajan Singh Reflects on Virat Kohli's Early Career and Unwavering Determination

Harbhajan Singh Reflects on Virat Kohli’s Early Career and Unwavering Determination

By September 3, 2024 0

Virat Kohli’s journey to cricketing greatness has been marked by an unwavering determination and an insatiable hunger for success. Harbhajan Singh, a former teammate and close friend, recently shared insights into Kohli’s early career, highlighting the qualities that have shaped him into one of India’s most celebrated cricketers.

During Kohli’s debut ODI series in 2008, Harbhajan witnessed firsthand the young batsman’s relentless drive. Despite scoring a half-century, Kohli expressed dissatisfaction, revealing his desire to push himself further. This attitude hinted at the exceptional heights he would eventually reach.

Kohli’s early Test struggles in 2011 against the West Indies tested his self-belief. Harbhajan recalled a conversation where he encouraged Kohli to believe in his abilities, predicting that he would score 10,000 Test runs. These words proved prophetic, as Kohli transformed into a batting phenomenon over the next 13 years.

Harbhajan attributed Kohli’s success to his unwavering mindset and meticulous preparation. He observed a shift in Kohli’s diet and training regimen, reflecting his determination to become an extraordinary player. Kohli’s stubbornness and unwavering belief in his abilities have been instrumental in his rise to the top.

Kohli’s impact on Indian cricket has been profound. He has elevated his batting to unprecedented levels, breaking numerous records and becoming the face of the sport in India. His aggressive approach and relentless pursuit of victory have inspired a generation of cricketers.

Currently, Kohli stands on the cusp of surpassing 10,000 Test runs, a milestone that would further cement his legacy as one of India’s all-time greats. His journey from a young batsman to a cricketing legend serves as a testament to the power of determination, hard work, and an unwavering belief in oneself.

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Amir Fumes at Wasim's Fielding, Gillespie Explains Afridi-Shah Exclusion

Amir Fumes at Wasim’s Fielding, Gillespie Explains Afridi-Shah Exclusion

By September 3, 2024 0

Pakistan’s Mohammad Amir Fumes at Imad Wasim’s Lackluster Fielding in CPL

Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Amir expressed his frustration during the Caribbean Super League after a lackluster fielding effort by his compatriot Imad Wasim. The incident occurred during a match between the Antigua and Barbuda Falcons, where both Amir and Wasim play, and the Barbados Royals.

Amir bowled a short-pitched delivery to Quinton De Kock, who guided it towards the third-man boundary. Wasim, fielding at deep backward point, initially ran towards the ball but then eased up, allowing it to go for a four. Amir was visibly agitated and was heard shouting at Wasim to run. His fielding position was changed on the next ball.

The Royals ultimately emerged victorious, with De Kock scoring 87 runs off just 45 deliveries. The incident sparked criticism on social media, with many questioning Wasim’s commitment to the game.

Pakistan’s Test Coach Explains Exclusion of Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah

Meanwhile, Pakistan’s Test head coach Jason Gillespie has revealed the reasons behind the exclusion of star pace duo Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah from the playing XI for the second Test against Bangladesh.

Bangladesh is in a commanding position after Day 4, needing just 143 runs to complete a historic clean sweep. Despite a strong performance in the first innings, Pakistan’s bowling attack struggled against Bangladesh’s openers.

Gillespie explained that the team selection was based on an analysis of the pitch conditions. “We looked at conditions and what we thought was the best combination,” he said. “We had Bangladesh in a bit of trouble in the first innings, but we need to improve our line and length.”

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Pakistan Cricket Team's Woes Continue with Fielding Blunders

Pakistan Cricket Team’s Woes Continue with Fielding Blunders

By September 3, 2024 0

Pakistan’s cricket team continues to face adversity both on and off the field. Amidst ongoing changes in leadership and coaching staff, the team’s performance has taken a nosedive, culminating in a humiliating defeat against Bangladesh in the first Test. The second Test in Rawalpindi has brought further embarrassment, with skipper Shan Masood drawing heavy criticism for his abysmal fielding.

On Day 3 of the second Test, Masood dropped a straightforward catch that gifted batter Hasan Mahmud a second life. The incident occurred during the 75th over of Bangladesh’s first innings, when Mahmud mistimed a shot off Khuram Shahzad’s delivery. The low shot went straight to Masood at cover, but the Pakistan skipper fumbled the catch, allowing the ball to drop to the ground.

This blunder left Masood’s teammates visibly stunned, and the video quickly went viral on social media, sparking a barrage of criticism from fans. The incident marked the second fielding error by Pakistan in the match, following Saud Shakeel’s dropped catch of Bangladesh opener Shadman Islam on Saturday.

The disappointment was evident on Masood’s face as Shakeel missed the catch, and even the commentators expressed disbelief at the “regulation catch” being dropped. Umpire Richard Kettleborough could not conceal his reaction to the missed opportunity.

Despite the fielding blunders, Bangladesh fought back on Sunday, with Litton Das scoring a valiant century to lift his team from a precarious 26-6 to a respectable 262 all out. The remarkable turnaround has left the second Test in Rawalpindi evenly poised.

At close on the third day, Bangladesh struck back to leave Pakistan on a sluggish 9-2, with opener Abdullah Shafique dismissed for three and nightwatchman Khurram Shahzad falling without scoring, both to pacer Hasan Mahmud.

Pakistan’s poor performance has raised serious concerns about the team’s future prospects. The constant changes in leadership and coaching staff have created instability, while the players’ lack of form and discipline has contributed to the team’s downfall.

Unless Pakistan can address these issues and find a way to improve their performance, they face the prospect of further setbacks and a decline in their international standing.

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Ashwin Embraces Legacy, Predicts Future Spinners Will Surpass Him

Ashwin Embraces Legacy, Predicts Future Spinners Will Surpass Him

By September 3, 2024 0

Ravichandran Ashwin, the veteran Indian off-spinner, is preparing for an arduous 10-Test stretch for the national team, starting with the home series against Bangladesh. As he approaches the twilight of his illustrious career, Ashwin remains confident that future generations will surpass his achievements.

In a recent interview with veteran cricket journalist Vimal Kumar, Ashwin acknowledged the legacy of Indian spinners that preceded him, including Anil Kumble and Harbhajan Singh. “I am fortunate to have inherited their legacy and built upon it,” he said. “My success is a testament to their contributions.”

Ashwin emphasized the constant evolution of the game, citing the Indian Premier League (IPL) as an example. “The salaries in the IPL will continue to rise in the future,” he said. “The world is constantly progressing.”

Ashwin, who currently holds the top spot in the ICC Test all-rounder rankings, believes that his own achievements will eventually be eclipsed. “I will eventually retire, and someone else will take my place,” he said. “It’s like a relay race, where each runner contributes to the overall success.”

Ashwin expressed his conviction that future spinners will surpass his accomplishments. “I am certain that someone better than me will emerge,” he said. “The game will continue to evolve, and new players will bring their own unique skills and innovations.”

Ashwin’s comments reflect his humility and his understanding of the cyclical nature of sports. He recognizes that his own success is built upon the foundation laid by previous generations, and he expects future players to build upon his legacy.

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All-Rounders Smith and Clarkson Join New Zealand Central Contracts

All-Rounders Smith and Clarkson Join New Zealand Central Contracts

By September 3, 2024 0

New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has announced the addition of all-rounders Nathan Smith and Josh Clarkson to its central contracts list, replacing Devon Conway and Finn Allen who declined offers last month.

Smith, 26, is yet to make his international debut but has impressed in domestic cricket, particularly in red-ball cricket. He was the leading wicket-taker in last season’s Plunket Shield with 33 wickets at an average of 17.18 for champions Wellington. He also had a successful stint with Worcestershire in the County Championship, claiming 27 wickets in seven matches.

“Nathan’s been on our radar for a while having been a significant performer in domestic cricket for some time,” said New Zealand head coach Gary Stead. “He’s been particularly impressive in red-ball cricket and we think he has the skills to be successful in international cricket when he gets a chance.”

Clarkson, 27, has played three ODIs and T20Is for New Zealand. He featured in series against Bangladesh, Australia, and Pakistan last season.

“Josh has been involved in both white ball squads over the past twelve months which shows the strides he’s made in his game,” Stead said. “He’s a hard-hitting player with plenty of skills and has shown in his chances so far that he can offer a lot with bat and ball on the international stage. Josh will provide depth and adds value given the volume of white ball cricket on the horizon.”

The vacancies on the contract list arose when Conway and Allen opted out to take up T20 league deals during January. Conway, who will play in the SA20 for Joburg Super Kings, was offered a casual playing contract, while Allen, who signed a two-year deal with Perth Scorchers in the BBL, will remain eligible for selection on a case-by-case basis.

New Zealand return to action next week with a one-off Test against Afghanistan in Greater Noida before traveling to Sri Lanka for two Tests and then India for three.

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Azharuddeen's 92 Powers Alleppey Ripples to Victory in Kerala Cricket League Opener

Azharuddeen’s 92 Powers Alleppey Ripples to Victory in Kerala Cricket League Opener

By September 2, 2024 0

Captain Mohammed Azharuddeen’s scintillating innings of 92 runs off just 47 deliveries propelled Alleppey Ripples to a resounding five-wicket victory over Thrissur Titans in the inaugural match of the Kerala Cricket League.

Azharuddeen’s whirlwind knock, which included three boundaries and nine towering sixes, proved to be the catalyst for Alleppey’s triumph. After Thrissur Titans managed a respectable total of 162 runs, Azharuddeen’s explosive batting display turned the tide in Alleppey’s favor.

The Titans’ innings got off to a shaky start, losing a wicket off the very first ball. However, Akshay Manohar’s gritty knock of 57 runs off 44 deliveries provided some stability to the Thrissur outfit.

In response, Alleppey Ripples began their chase cautiously. Azharuddeen, initially circumspect, found his rhythm in the fifth over, smashing two full tosses over the midwicket boundary for sixes. The momentum shifted decisively in Alleppey’s favor as Azharuddeen continued to unleash a barrage of sixes, mostly off the spinners.

Despite Azharuddeen’s heroics, the Titans bowlers managed to keep the Ripples in check, with M.D. Nidheesh claiming two wickets. However, Azharuddeen’s departure with just eight runs needed for victory did not deter Alleppey. Vinoop Manoharan’s 30 runs and a cameo from F. Fanoos ensured a comfortable victory for the Ripples.

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Ashwin Dismisses Jealousy Rumors, Praises Jadeja's Talent

Ashwin Dismisses Jealousy Rumors, Praises Jadeja’s Talent

By September 2, 2024 0

Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja have emerged as two of the most formidable spinners in Indian cricket history. Their partnership has been instrumental in India’s success on numerous occasions, with both players ranking among the top wicket-takers for the national team.

While Ashwin and Jadeja often bowl in tandem in home conditions, Jadeja is typically preferred over Ashwin in overseas Tests. In a recent interview, Ashwin addressed this dynamic, stating that he does not harbor any jealousy towards his teammate.

“You are talking about jealousy,” Ashwin said. “It’s not Jadeja’s fault that I’m not playing. I don’t have the kind of jealousy where I would wish to keep him out just to play myself.”

Ashwin went on to lavish praise on Jadeja, calling him the “most talented cricketer” he has ever seen. “Jadeja is the most talented cricketer I’ve seen; everything about him is natural,” Ashwin said. “Over the years, our relationship has improved as we’ve learned to understand each other’s differences.”

Ashwin emphasized the importance of clear communication with players who are not in the playing XI to avoid misunderstandings. “It’s crucial to handle players who are not playing with clarity and reassurance,” he said. “If someone is replaced, it’s not about fault but about opportunity and team dynamics.”

Ashwin also stressed the need for internal inspiration rather than external comparisons. “The focus should be on internal inspiration rather than external comparisons,” he said. “We need to overcome the conditioning that leads to jealousy.”

Ashwin’s comments highlight the importance of camaraderie and mutual respect within a team environment. By acknowledging Jadeja’s talent and downplaying any perceived rivalry, Ashwin demonstrates a mature and professional approach to the game.

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Pakistan Coach Gillespie Backs Babar Azam Amidst Batting Slump

Pakistan Coach Gillespie Backs Babar Azam Amidst Batting Slump

By September 2, 2024 0

Pakistan’s star batsman Babar Azam has been facing a prolonged batting slump, raising concerns among fans and experts. Despite his struggles, Pakistan’s Test coach Jason Gillespie has expressed unwavering support for Azam, believing that the right-hander is on the cusp of a resurgence.

Azam’s struggles began after the ODI World Cup in India last year. He briefly relinquished the captaincy but resumed leadership in the white-ball format ahead of the T20 World Cup. However, his batting form has remained elusive, leading to criticism from fans and former players.

In the ongoing Test series against Bangladesh, Azam has managed only 64 runs in four innings. This has intensified the scrutiny on his form, with many questioning his ability to lead Pakistan’s batting lineup.

Despite the criticism, Gillespie remains confident in Azam’s abilities. “Babar is a quality player. He is a world-class player. He is very close. I feel it. I am confident that we are going to see Babar scoring some big runs very soon,” Gillespie said after the end of Day 4.

Gillespie believes that Azam is not far from rediscovering his prolific scoring ability. “He probably hasn’t converted the start he has got,” Gillespie added.

Azam’s struggles have coincided with a challenging period for Pakistan’s cricket team. After a series whitewash in Australia, Pakistan’s batting lineup was exposed as vulnerable. Azam’s poor form in England and the T20 World Cup further highlighted the team’s batting woes.

Pakistan will face England in a Test series next, and the pressure will be on Azam to deliver. The team will rely heavily on its premier batsman to make impactful contributions and guide Pakistan to victory.

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Pakistan Faces Baptism of Fire as Bangladesh Nears Series Sweep

Pakistan Faces Baptism of Fire as Bangladesh Nears Series Sweep

By September 2, 2024 0

Pakistan’s head coach, Jason Gillespie, has faced a challenging start to his tenure as the team struggles to avoid a series loss against Bangladesh. With one day remaining in the crucial Test match, Gillespie acknowledged the visitors’ favoritism but emphasized the need for discipline and application from his players.

In the first innings, Pakistan’s bowlers had Bangladesh on the ropes at 6 for 26, but a resilient 165-run seventh-wicket stand propelled the visitors to a respectable 262, the highest score in Test history for a team losing their first six wickets under 50. Gillespie stressed the importance of managing such situations effectively, as Pakistan’s bowlers faltered in the face of Bangladesh’s resistance.

On the fourth morning, Bangladesh replicated Pakistan’s success from the previous day, dismissing the hosts for 172, with all ten wickets falling to the quicks. Gillespie criticized his bowlers for deviating from their game plan and urged them to maintain discipline and intent.

Pakistan’s off-field decision-making has also come under scrutiny. In the first Test, they opted for an all-pace attack, neglecting spinner Abrar Ahmed, a decision that backfired when Bangladesh’s slow bowlers dominated the final day. This time, despite preparing a seam-friendly pitch, Pakistan omitted Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah from the playing XI, leaving them without genuine pace or old-ball threat.

Gillespie defended the team’s selection, stating that they considered the conditions and surfaces. However, he acknowledged that Afridi and Shah are valuable assets and that the team is working to build a squad mentality.

Despite the odds being stacked against them, Gillespie expressed hope that Pakistan could still salvage a victory. He emphasized the importance of taking catches, seizing opportunities, and maintaining a positive mindset.

However, the weather may play a significant role in the outcome. Steady rain has been falling for several hours, with more forecast overnight and on the final day. If play is not possible, Bangladesh will secure their most famous series win, while Pakistan will be left to rue their missed opportunities.

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