Cricket Archives

Shan Masood to Continue as Pakistan Test Captain for England Series

By Nilay September 24, 2024 0

Pakistan’s Test captaincy is expected to remain unchanged, with Shan Masood set to lead the team in the upcoming home series against England. Babar Azam will continue as the white-ball captain during the tours of Australia and South Africa later this year.

England’s squad will arrive in Pakistan on October 3 for a three-Test series beginning in Multan on October 7. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) selectors will announce the Test squad after the Champions Cup final on Sunday.

Masood, who has overseen five consecutive Test losses, will meet with head coach Jason Gillespie and national selectors Muhammad Yousuf and Asad Shafiq in Faisalabad this week to finalize the strategy for the England series.

The last time England visited Pakistan, during the 2022/23 season, they swept the series 3-0 under the captaincy of Babar Azam.

Sources indicate that few changes are expected in the Test squad that recently lost a series against Bangladesh in Rawalpindi 0-2. The batting line-up is likely to remain stable, with Shan, Babar, Saud Shakeel, Abdullah Shafique, Salman Ali Agha, Muhammad Rizwan, Kamran Ghulam, and Muhammad Huraira being considered for selection.

The selectors are considering the inclusion of some new spinners for the three-match series, but the decision will depend on the type of pitches prepared in Multan and Rawalpindi.

Since 2022, Pakistan has lost home series to Australia, England, and Bangladesh, managing only to draw the series against New Zealand. The team will be eager to turn things around against England and regain some momentum in the Test format.

Categories: Cricket

India Women’s Cricket Team Sets Sights on T20 World Cup Glory

By Nilay September 24, 2024 0

India’s women’s cricket team, led by Harmanpreet Kaur, has set their sights firmly on winning the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024. The team’s unwavering determination and relentless pursuit of excellence have fueled their aspirations to lift the coveted trophy.

Kaur, the charismatic captain, has instilled a fearless mindset within the squad, emphasizing the importance of playing with aggression and leaving no stone unturned in their quest for glory. The team’s unwavering belief in their abilities has been forged through countless hours of training and a shared desire to bring honor to their nation.

Every match leading up to the World Cup is viewed as an opportunity to showcase their exceptional skills and inspire young cricketers worldwide. The team’s journey to the final of the 2020 Women’s T20 World Cup and their near-miss in the 2023 edition serve as testaments to their potential and resilience.

Kaur expressed her excitement about playing in the United Arab Emirates for the first time, anticipating the enthusiastic support of the crowds in Dubai and Sharjah. The squad boasts a formidable blend of experience and youthful exuberance, with seasoned veterans guiding the path for promising young talents.

The team’s camaraderie and mutual respect create a supportive environment where every player feels valued and empowered. Kaur acknowledged the invaluable contributions of the support staff in fostering a positive and nurturing atmosphere.

Preparations for the World Cup have been meticulous, with the team embarking on a rigorous training regimen immediately after the conclusion of the previous edition. Each player has embraced the importance of fitness, recognizing its profound impact on their performance.

While strategies may adapt to the strengths and weaknesses of their opponents, the team’s primary focus remains on maximizing their own potential and playing to their strengths. Kaur emphasized the importance of adaptability and the ability to execute their plans effectively.

The Indian women’s cricket team is poised to make a significant impact on the global stage. Their unwavering determination, fearless approach, and unwavering support for one another make them a formidable force to be reckoned with. As they embark on their journey towards the 2024 World Cup, the team carries the hopes and aspirations of a nation eager to witness their triumph.

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England Strike Early in Third ODI Against Australia

By Nilay September 24, 2024 0

England and Australia faced off in the third ODI at the Old Trafford Cricket Ground, with England winning the toss and electing to bowl first. Australia, seeking a win to clinch the five-match series, sent Matthew Short and Mitchell Marsh to open the batting.

Jofra Archer, recalled to the English side, opened the bowling and immediately made an impact. His short-ball strategy paid off as he dismissed Short for 21, caught by Adil Rashid at deep backward square leg. Archer continued to trouble the Australian batsmen, hitting Marsh on the thigh pad and getting the ball to nip back into Steven Smith’s pads.

Matthew Potts, bowling from the other end, also impressed. He beat Marsh’s outside edge with a delivery that nipped away and forced Smith to fend off an awkward bouncer. Potts also conceded a boundary to Short, who cracked a drive through point.

Marsh, who had been promoted to open in the absence of Travis Head, looked solid and scored a single off Potts. Cameron Green, who came in at number three, also got off the mark with a single.

As the innings progressed, Australia began to build a partnership. Marsh and Green played cautiously, rotating the strike and avoiding any unnecessary risks. They managed to take Australia to 21/1 after the first four overs.

However, the match was interrupted by rain, forcing the players off the field. The rain delay lasted for over an hour, and when play resumed, England had a new bowler in Brydon Carse.

Carse continued to put pressure on the Australian batsmen, hitting Marsh on the chest with a shorter delivery and getting the ball to seam away from Smith. Marsh and Green remained resolute, though, and managed to keep the scoreboard ticking over.

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England Opt to Bowl First in Crucial Third ODI Against Australia

By Nilay September 24, 2024 0

England, trailing 2-0 in the ODI series against Australia, opted to bowl first in the third match at Chester-le-Street under overcast conditions. Captain Harry Brook, who has won all three tosses in the series, made the decision to utilize the favorable bowling conditions.

England brought back Jofra Archer into their attack, replacing Olly Stone. Despite their batting struggles in the previous matches, Brook expressed confidence in his inexperienced side. “We’ve picked guys because of their capabilities,” he said. “We don’t want to change that. Want them to go out there and do what they’ve done for their counties.”

Australia, plagued by injuries and illness, was forced to make two changes. Travis Head and Adam Zampa were ruled out, with Cameron Green and Sean Abbott taking their places. Mitchell Marsh, Australia’s captain, remained optimistic. “We’ve got a real good side out today, and a chance of winning the series,” he said.

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Bangladesh Aims for Historic Win in Women’s T20 World Cup Opener

By Nilay September 24, 2024 0

Bangladesh’s Nigar Sultana is determined to lead her team to victory in their opening match of the Women’s T20 World Cup against Scotland on October 3. A win would be a significant milestone for Bangladesh, who have not won a match in their last four World Cup appearances and have only one victory in five editions.

Sultana emphasizes that Bangladesh is not underestimating Scotland. “We want to win the first match,” she said. “It will be a huge achievement for the team. The team will get into a flow when that happens. We can then dream of something bigger. We are hungry for it.”

Scotland, however, is a formidable opponent. “They won’t let you win easily. They don’t give up without a fight. We are mentally prepared to face those challenges,” Sultana said.

Despite their past struggles, Sultana and Bangladesh have ambitious goals. They aim to challenge England, West Indies, and South Africa, the other teams in their group, and reach the semi-finals. “To play in the semi-final, we have to win against those three teams, too,” Sultana said. “We have different plans against each team. If we can execute our gameplan, then it will good for us.”

Bangladesh’s batting has been a concern in recent series, but Sultana is confident in the team’s young players, such as Shathi Rani and Taj Nehar. “Batting is definitely a concern but we saw some improvements among the batters during the ‘A’ team tour [of Sri Lanka],” she said.

Bangladesh’s strength lies in their spin attack, led by left-arm spinner Nahida Akter and 19-year-old legspinner Rabeya Khan. Sultana praised Rabeya’s contributions, saying, “She has taken our team to a different level through her contributions in both formats. She is a great fielder. She is good with the bat too but doesn’t take batting seriously. She is maturing slowly. If there’s someone I rely with the ball in tough situations after Nahida, it is definitely Rabeya.”

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Kohli’s Form Concerns Linger Despite India’s Dominance

By Nilay September 24, 2024 0

India’s emphatic 280-run victory over Bangladesh in the first Test in Chennai has sparked discussions about Virat Kohli’s recent form. Despite India’s dominance, Kohli’s scores of 6 and 17 in the two innings have raised concerns.

However, former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali believes Kohli will regain his form in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia. “Kohli will start performing against Australia,” Ali said. “He likes the pacy wickets there. Big players often lose focus against weaker teams but excel against tougher opponents.”

Ali also expressed confidence in India’s ability to retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. “India won’t let Australia win this year either,” he said.

Meanwhile, Bangladesh cricketer Tamim Iqbal has hailed the importance of Ravichandran Ashwin in the Indian team. “Ashwin is equally important as Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma,” Iqbal said. “We only talk about them when they perform well, but their contribution is immense.”

Ashwin’s batting prowess was on display in the first Test, where he scored a crucial 58 in the second innings. His all-round performance has earned him praise from experts and fans alike.

As India prepares for the New Zealand series and the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Kohli’s form and Ashwin’s continued brilliance will be key factors in their success.

Categories: Cricket

Rishabh Pant’s Comeback Century Powers India to Victory

By Nilay September 24, 2024 0

India’s star wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant made a triumphant return to Test cricket with a record-equalling century in the first match against Bangladesh in Chennai. Despite initial nerves, Pant’s determination and attacking instincts propelled him to a match-winning performance.

Pant’s comeback was highly anticipated after a life-threatening car accident in December 2022. His 109-run innings in the second innings showcased his resilience and unwavering spirit. The innings was a blend of aggressive strokes and calculated defense, leaving the Bangladesh bowlers bewildered.

“I was very nervous, very jittery,” Pant admitted. “But there was some fire inside that I wanted to make it happen.”

Pant’s partnership with opener Shubman Gill was crucial in India’s victory. The duo shared a 167-run stand, with Gill contributing a composed 110. Pant praised Gill’s off-field camaraderie, which translated into their on-field success.

“When you have a great relationship outside the field, it really helps to bat with that guy,” Pant said. “We were just having fun, talking about the game, and staying relaxed.”

Pant’s performance extended beyond his batting. He was also involved in a light-hearted moment on the stump mic, where he cheekily instructed the Bangladesh captain on field placements.

“O bhai, ek idhar aayega (Brother, one fielder should come here). One on midwicket,” Pant said, drawing laughter from fans and commentators.

India’s 280-run victory puts them 1-0 up in the two-match Test series. Pant’s century and match-winning partnership have set the tone for the second and final Test in Kanpur, which begins on Friday.

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Uncapped Offspinner Peiris Drafted into Sri Lanka Test Squad

By Nilay September 24, 2024 0

Sri Lanka’s Test squad for the second and final Test against New Zealand has undergone a change, with uncapped offspinner Nishan Peiris replacing injured seamer Vishwa Fernando. Fernando, who did not feature in the first Test, which Sri Lanka won by 63 runs, has developed a tightness in his right hamstring and will undergo rehabilitation.

Peiris, 27, has been on the fringes of the Test team for several years, having been included in the squad twice previously but never making his debut. However, with Ramesh Mendis’ performance coming under scrutiny after the first Test, Peiris may have an opportunity to break into the playing XI.

Mendis, who has been Sri Lanka’s leading spinner in recent years, took six wickets in the first Test but was criticized for his lack of control. His economy rate was the poorest of Sri Lanka’s spinners, and he often allowed New Zealand batters to score freely.

Peiris, on the other hand, has a strong first-class record, having taken 172 wickets in 41 matches at an average of 24.37. He recently represented Sri Lanka A in South Africa, where he picked up three wickets in the first unofficial Test.

If Peiris does make his Test debut, he will be tasked with providing Sri Lanka with control and wicket-taking options. The offspinner has the ability to turn the ball sharply and generate bounce, which could be effective against New Zealand’s right-handed batters.

The second Test between Sri Lanka and New Zealand will begin on Thursday, August 25, at the Galle International Stadium. Sri Lanka will be looking to secure a series victory after their impressive win in the first Test.

Categories: Cricket

Rishabh Pant’s Miraculous Return to Test Cricket Inspires Pakistan Legend Wasim Akram

By Nilay September 24, 2024 0

Rishabh Pant’s remarkable return to Test cricket has left the cricketing world in awe. After a horrific car crash in December 2022, the wicket-keeper batter has shown immense resilience and determination to bounce back stronger than ever.

In the second innings of the series opener against Bangladesh, Pant scored a century, reminding everyone of his exceptional talent. His heroic performance brought tears to the eyes of many, including fans, pundits, and his peers.

Pakistan cricket legend Wasim Akram was among those who were deeply moved by Pant’s journey. “Look at Pant’s performance, the miracle that he has performed by showing he is superhuman by returning from his tragedy,” Akram said on Sportskeeda.

Akram praised Pant’s exemplary shots, particularly his reverse sweep against England pace great James Anderson. However, it was Pant’s mental strength that impressed Akram the most.

“The way he used to play in Test cricket, the way he performed in Australia with the century then,” said Akram. “The way he batted against England, playing a reverse sweep against [James] Anderson in Test cricket, even [Pat] Cummins. He’s special.”

“Especially what he has been through in that horrific accident, coming back from that, how mentally strong must that boy be.”

Akram believes that Pant’s story should be told to children for generations to come, as an inspiration to bounce back from difficult situations. “That’s a story to be told for generations and generations, in my opinion, to motivate young people of the world. You can come back the way Pant did,” said Akram.

“He came back and averaged 40 in the IPL, 446 runs at a strike rate of 155, he’s a miracle kid,” Akram concluded.

Pant’s return to form is a testament to his unwavering spirit and the power of human resilience. His story is an inspiration to all who face adversity, reminding us that anything is possible with determination and support.

Categories: Cricket

Mohinder Amarnath: The Comeback Man and Outspoken Legend

By Nilay September 24, 2024 0

Mohinder Amarnath, the legendary cricketer who played a pivotal role in India’s historic 1983 World Cup victory, turns 74 today. His journey has been marked by both triumph and controversy, with his outspoken nature often making headlines.

Amarnath’s contribution to India’s maiden World Cup triumph cannot be overstated. In the semifinal against England, he took two wickets and scored a crucial 46 runs. In the final against West Indies, he scored 26 runs and bowled a match-winning spell of 3/12, helping India secure a historic 43-run victory.

However, Amarnath’s career was not without its setbacks. In 1988, he was dropped from the Indian team for the home Test series against New Zealand, a decision that sparked a public outcry. Amarnath’s response was equally explosive, as he famously called the selectors “a bunch of jokers.”

The tension between Amarnath and former BCCI president Raj Singh Dungarpur, who was also the chairman of selectors, was a significant episode in Indian cricket during the late 1980s. Amarnath’s criticism of the selection process and his strong personality often clashed with Dungarpur’s authority.

Despite his controversial exclusion from the team, Amarnath remained a respected figure in Indian cricket. His outstanding performances on the field, particularly during India’s 1983 World Cup win, earned him a place in the hearts of cricket fans.

Known as “Jimmy,” Amarnath is the son of Lala Amarnath, the first post-independence Indian captain of India. He played 69 Tests, scoring 4,378 runs with 11 hundreds and 24 fifties, and also claimed 32 wickets. He also played 85 ODIs for India.

Amarnath’s legacy extends beyond his on-field achievements. His outspoken nature and willingness to challenge authority made him a symbol of transparency and accountability in Indian cricket. His famous “bunch of jokers” remark remains a reminder of the murky nature of selections during that era.

Categories: Cricket

Shan Masood to Continue as Pakistan Test Captain for England Series

India Women’s Cricket Team Sets Sights on T20 World Cup Glory

England Strike Early in Third ODI Against Australia

England Opt to Bowl First in Crucial Third ODI Against Australia

Bangladesh Aims for Historic Win in Women’s T20 World Cup Opener

Kohli’s Form Concerns Linger Despite India’s Dominance

Rishabh Pant’s Comeback Century Powers India to Victory

Uncapped Offspinner Peiris Drafted into Sri Lanka Test Squad

Rishabh Pant’s Miraculous Return to Test Cricket Inspires Pakistan Legend Wasim Akram

Mohinder Amarnath: The Comeback Man and Outspoken Legend

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