Rohit Sharma to Stay Loyal to Mumbai Indians, Says Ashwin

Rohit Sharma to Stay Loyal to Mumbai Indians, Says Ashwin

Star India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has expressed his belief that Rohit Sharma will remain a loyal member of the Mumbai Indians franchise in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Ashwin’s comments come amidst speculation that Rohit may leave the team after being replaced as captain by Hardik Pandya last year.

“Even if you think like Rohit, it’s not wrong at all. I don’t want any headache. I have been a captain for India. I have captained Mumbai many times. Even if I am not a captain, I am going to Mumbai happily. If I play for Mumbai, it’s super. I am sure most players are like that. After a stage, money doesn’t matter for some of those players. That’s the thing,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.

Rohit has been an integral part of the Mumbai Indians since joining the franchise in 2011. He has led the team to five IPL titles, making him one of the most successful captains in the tournament’s history. However, his form has dipped in recent seasons, and he was replaced as captain by Pandya, who led Gujarat Titans to the title in their debut season in 2022.

Despite the change in leadership, Ashwin believes that Rohit remains committed to the Mumbai Indians. He pointed out that Rohit has a strong bond with the franchise and its fans.

“Rohit will have his hand on my shoulders,” Pandya said after taking over the captaincy. “He will be there to guide me whenever I need him. He is a legend of the game and I am lucky to have him as a mentor.”

Rohit’s future with the Mumbai Indians will be closely watched in the upcoming IPL season. If he does leave the franchise, it will be a significant blow to their hopes of regaining the title. However, Ashwin’s comments suggest that Rohit is likely to remain loyal to the team that has been his home for over a decade.

Venkatesh Iyer Returns Home After Underwhelming Stint with Lancashire

Venkatesh Iyer Returns Home After Underwhelming Stint with Lancashire

Venkatesh Iyer, the Indian all-rounder, is set to return home after completing his stint with Lancashire in England. Iyer has played five List A matches and one first-class game for the County side, but his performances have been underwhelming.

In the One-Day Cup, Iyer scored 15, 4, 9, 15, and 25, while taking three wickets. In the County Championship match against Surrey, he registered scores of 4 and 15.

Despite his lackluster performances, Iyer remained in good spirits during a fun video session with Lancashire. When asked to choose between two players, Iyer consistently picked his Kolkata Knight Riders teammate Phil Salt.

However, when faced with the choice between Brendon McCullum and MS Dhoni, Iyer毫不犹豫地选择了Dhoni。Dhoni的名字随后与Virat Kohli相提并论,但Iyer仍然选择了Dhoni。

当Dhoni的名字与Sachin Tendulkar一起出现时,Iyer犹豫了几秒钟,然后微笑着说:“MS Dhoni。”

Iyer在2021年印度超级联赛赛季中确立了自己作为一名强大的顶级击球手的身份。他在那届比赛中的出色表现帮助他获得了印度白球国际赛的征召。除了击球能力外,Iyer还作为一名缝合球手带来了宝贵的技能。

Babar Azam's Form Woes Continue as Pakistan Suffers Test Defeat to Bangladesh

Babar Azam’s Form Woes Continue as Pakistan Suffers Test Defeat to Bangladesh

Former Pakistan captain Babar Azam’s recent batting struggles have sparked widespread criticism, with his performance in the first Test against Bangladesh drawing particular scrutiny. Azam’s scores of 0 and 22 contributed to Pakistan’s dramatic batting collapse on the final day, resulting in a 10-wicket defeat.

The loss marked Bangladesh’s first-ever Test victory over Pakistan, prompting former captain Ramiz Raja to express his disappointment on his YouTube channel. Raja lamented the team’s inability to maintain consistency and questioned Azam’s form.

“It seems the entire country doesn’t have a problem with anything except the form of Babar Azam,” Raja said. “Cricket is in our blood, but I don’t know for how long if we continue to lose matches like this in Test cricket.”

Pakistan conceded a 117-run lead to Bangladesh in the first innings and were then bowled out for just 146 on day five, leaving the visitors with a mere 30 runs to chase for victory. Saud Shakel (141) and Mohammad Rizwan (171 not out) had earlier starred in Pakistan’s first-innings total of 448 for 6 declared.

However, Bangladesh’s veteran Mushfiqur Rahim’s epic 191 and contributions throughout the batting card helped the visitors post 565 all out in response.

Raja emphasized the importance of success in building fan following and acknowledged Azam’s past achievements. However, he also highlighted the intense scrutiny that comes with being a high-profile player in the era of social media.

“When you lose a match and you haven’t scored runs, and if you are Babar Azam, then you become a headline,” Raja said. “This is the era of social media, where anyone can criticize and ridicule anyone.”

Raja advised Azam to avoid social media, stay in the moment, and focus on his batting technique. He suggested that Azam work on his footwork, practice hook and pull shots, and play with a positive intent.

“Scoring runs is one thing, but is he happy with the way he is batting?” Raja asked. “The last innings he played, he was bowled off an inside-edge. It means your bat angles are not right, you lose your frame because you aren’t spending much time on the crease.”

Raja emphasized the importance of mental toughness and the need for Azam to forget past failures and focus on the present moment. He also stressed the critical role of character in overcoming adversity.

IPL 2025 Auction: LSG Owner Dismisses Rumors of Rs 50 Crore Offer for Rohit Sharma

IPL 2025 Auction: LSG Owner Dismisses Rumors of Rs 50 Crore Offer for Rohit Sharma

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 auction is poised to be a transformative event, with the potential to reshape the landscape of the tournament. As teams prepare to release and retain players, the focus has turned to the number of retentions allowed and the fate of star players like Rohit Sharma.

Mumbai Indians, the most successful franchise in IPL history, face a dilemma. They possess a formidable core of Suryakumar Yadav, Rohit Sharma, Hardik Pandya, and Jasprit Bumrah. However, retaining all four players could prove challenging under the new retention rules.

Amidst the speculation, rumors have emerged that Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) are willing to offer Rohit Sharma a staggering Rs 50 crore salary package. However, LSG owner Sanjiv Goenka has dismissed these claims, questioning the feasibility of such a move.

“Whether Mumbai Indians will release Rohit Sharma or not, whether he is coming to the auction or not, even if he comes if you are going to use 50 per cent of your salary cap on one player, how will you manage the other 22 players?” Goenka asked.

Goenka acknowledged that all franchises have wishlists, but emphasized the importance of practicality. “You want the best player, the best captain to be in your team. It is not about wanting. What you have got and what is available. What can you do with that. This is that thing. I can want anyone but the same goes for all the franchises. You will not get everyone,” he said.

The IPL 2025 auction promises to be a fascinating affair, with teams weighing their options and making strategic decisions that could shape their fortunes for years to come. The fate of Rohit Sharma and other star players remains uncertain, adding to the intrigue surrounding this mega event.

Umran Malik's Absence from Indian Team Raises Concerns About Lack of Red-Ball Experience

Umran Malik’s Absence from Indian Team Raises Concerns About Lack of Red-Ball Experience

Umran Malik’s meteoric rise to fame in the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2022, where he showcased his blistering pace and ability to consistently bowl over 150 km/h, earned him a spot in the Indian white-ball squad. However, despite his early promise, Malik has not featured for India in more than a year, raising questions about his current predicament.

Former India bowling coach Paras Mhambrey believes that Malik’s rapid rise without substantial red-ball cricket experience is a significant factor in his current situation. According to Mhambrey, Malik’s swift ascent to the national team via the IPL is typical of a bowler who lacks the grounding that comes from playing longer formats. With only 12 First-Class matches under his belt, Malik has struggled to maintain his place in the national lineup.

“Umran is a classic case of someone who has not played enough red-ball cricket,” Mhambrey told The Indian Express. “He came into reckoning through the IPL. That’s 24 balls in a game. Sometimes you don’t even get to bowl 24 balls. The amount of pressure in bowling 24 balls is not like the red ball. I feel this (T20) is not a format to judge a prospect.”

Mhambrey emphasizes the importance of First-Class cricket for developing a bowler’s skills and endurance. He explains that while the IPL offers a platform for showcasing talent, it doesn’t replicate the mental and physical demands of longer formats.

“For all the perks that come with bowling in the IPL, it has its repercussions as well,” Mhambrey continued. “We made sure that he played Ranji Trophy and red-ball cricket. The moment you play one season, you understand your bowling. Physically, you will be tested in different phases of the game. Sometimes you will have to be on the ground for six sessions. And to be able to bowl with that intensity when the last session is coming up, you will be physically and mentally challenged. And you need to go through that.”

Mhambrey’s insights highlight a crucial element in Umran Malik’s development: the need for experience and endurance that comes only from playing red-ball cricket. Without this foundation, Malik has found it challenging to adjust to the rigors of international cricket, leading to his exclusion from the team.

Jacob Oram Appointed New Zealand Men's Bowling Coach

Jacob Oram Appointed New Zealand Men’s Bowling Coach

Jacob Oram, the former New Zealand all-rounder, has been appointed as the bowling coach for the New Zealand Men’s cricket team. Oram will fill the role vacated by Shane Jurgensen, who stepped down after the T20 World Cup earlier this year.

Oram has previously worked with the New Zealand team as bowling coach during last year’s Test tour of Bangladesh, the T20I series against Australia, and the T20 World Cup. He brings a wealth of experience to the role, having played 160 ODIs and 33 Tests for New Zealand.

“I’m really excited to have the opportunity to be involved with the Blackcaps again,” Oram said. “To be back involved with a team that means so much to me and has been a big part of my life is a real honor.”

Oram will work with a New Zealand attack that includes some newer faces, including exciting pace duo Ben Sears and Will O’Rourke. He is eager to share his knowledge and experience to help prepare them for the challenges of international cricket.

“There’s a fresh new wave of talent coming through in the Blackcaps bowling ranks and I hope that I can share my knowledge and experience to help best prepare them for the challenges of international cricket,” Oram said.

Oram began his coaching career in 2014 with New Zealand A and then worked with New Zealand Women as bowling coach from 2018. He was named head coach of Central Hinds last summer, leading the team to the Super Smash final. Oram has also been an assistant coach in the Abu Dhabi T10 and bowling coach of MI Cape Town in the SA20.

“Jake’s a great operator,” said head coach Gary Stead. “His career as a player and his experiences as a coach speak for themselves. He brings a deep understanding of the international game, but also experience in franchise cricket which will be worthwhile in understanding the modern player and the changing landscape of the modern game.”

Oram will begin his role on October 7, shortly before the start of New Zealand’s three-Test series in India.

WBBL Draft Preview: Teams Eye Key Signings to Bolster Squads

WBBL Draft Preview: Teams Eye Key Signings to Bolster Squads

The Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) draft is set to take place on September 1, and teams are eagerly preparing to bolster their squads. Here’s a comprehensive look at the pre-draft signings, retention options, and potential targets for each club:

Adelaide Strikers:

* Pre-draft signing: Smriti Mandhana
* Retention rights: Georgia Adams, Laura Wolvaardt
* Draft picks: 6, 14, 22, 27

The Strikers have secured the services of Indian superstar Smriti Mandhana and are expected to retain Laura Wolvaardt. They may seek a middle-order allrounder to complement their strong batting lineup.

Brisbane Heat:

* Pre-draft signing: Nadine de Klerk
* Retention rights: Bess Heath
* Draft picks: 7, 15, 18, 31

With several key departures, the Heat will prioritize replacing Amelia Kerr’s all-round abilities. They may also target a top-order batter to support Grace Harris and Georgia Redmayne.

Hobart Hurricanes:

* Pre-draft signing: Lizelle Lee
* Retention rights: Shabnim Ismail, Bryony Smith
* Draft picks: 1, 9, 24, 25

The Hurricanes have secured Lizelle Lee and will use their top pick to acquire a top-four batter. They may also seek an additional pace bowler to strengthen their attack.

Melbourne Renegades:

* Pre-draft signing: Hayley Matthews
* Retention rights: Eve Jones, Harmanpreet Kaur
* Draft picks: 3, 11, 19, 30

The Renegades have made significant domestic signings but may still target a top-order batter and an allrounder to complement their strong bowling unit.

Melbourne Stars:

* Pre-draft signing: Marizanne Kapp
* Retention rights: Alice Capsey, Sophia Dunkley
* Draft picks: 4, 12, 21, 28

The Stars have a strong pace-bowling unit but may seek a high-quality frontline spinner. They may also target another top-order batter to support Meg Lanning.

Perth Scorchers:

* Pre-draft signing: Sophie Devine
* Retention rights: Amy Jones, Lauren Winfield-Hill, Danni Wyatt
* Draft picks: 8, 16, 17, 32

The Scorchers may opt for a similar batting-heavy approach as last year, having secured Sophie Devine. They may also consider strengthening their bowling department.

Sydney Sixers:

* Pre-draft signing: Amelia Kerr
* Retention rights: Suzie Bates, Sophie Ecclestone, Jess Kerr, Chloe Tryon, Linsey Smith
* Draft picks: 2, 10, 23, 26

The Sixers have added Amelia Kerr’s all-round abilities and may seek another spinner. They may also target a top-order batter to supplement Alyssa Healy and Ellyse Perry.

Sydney Thunder:

* Pre-draft signing: Chamari Athapaththu
* Retention rights: Heather Knight
* Draft picks: 5, 13, 20, 29

The Thunder have secured Heather Knight but may seek another frontline bowling option. They may also target a middle-order hitter to complement Taneale Peschel.

Ollie Pope Seeks Root's Guidance on Balancing Captaincy and Batting

Ollie Pope Seeks Root’s Guidance on Balancing Captaincy and Batting

Ollie Pope, England’s stand-in captain, has sought guidance from former skipper Joe Root on balancing the demands of batting and leadership. Pope, who led England to a five-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in the first Test at Old Trafford, struggled with the bat, scoring twice for six.

Despite the team’s success, Pope recognized the need to separate his captaincy and batting responsibilities. He turned to Root, who captained England for a record 64 Tests, for advice. Root, known for his exceptional batting skills, emphasized the importance of compartmentalizing the two roles.

“It’s about having the two things separate,” Pope said. “That’s something I’ve spoken to Joe Root about. We just spoke about how it’s more taxing in the field but it’s finding a little routine and doing small things.”

Pope acknowledged Root’s “great cricket brain” and sought his insights on managing the mental and physical demands of captaincy. Root’s experience in leading England through challenging times proved invaluable to Pope.

While England’s aggressive batting approach under Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum has been successful, Pope highlighted the importance of adaptability. He praised Root’s unbeaten 62 off 128 balls in the first Test, which showcased a more measured approach on a slow pitch.

“We don’t use the term ‘Bazball’ but we played a different style of cricket (at Old Trafford) and that’s something that can keep taking us forward as a team,” Pope said.

Despite Stokes’ absence due to injury, Pope expressed confidence in his return for the upcoming tours of Pakistan and New Zealand. He believes that the break will allow Stokes to improve his game and return refreshed.

West Indies Fast Bowler Shannon Gabriel Retires from International Cricket

West Indies Fast Bowler Shannon Gabriel Retires from International Cricket

Shannon Gabriel, the towering West Indian fast bowler, has bid farewell to international cricket after a decade-long career. The 36-year-old, known for his fiery pace and intimidating presence, has played 59 Tests, 25 ODIs, and two T20Is for his country, claiming a total of 202 wickets.

Gabriel’s Test career was particularly impressive, where he utilized his height and strength to extract bounce and movement from even the most docile pitches. His best performance came against Sri Lanka in 2018, where he recorded match figures of 13 for 121, the fourth-best by a West Indian bowler.

West Indies fast bowling legend Courtney Walsh compared Gabriel to Patrick Patterson and Ian Bishop, recognizing his ability to generate pace and bounce. By 2017, he had become a regular member of the team, contributing to famous victories such as the Headingley Test against England.

However, Gabriel’s career was not without its controversies. In 2019, he was banned for four ODIs for an alleged homophobic remark towards Joe Root. While he accepted the sanction and apologized, he later claimed that the incident was exaggerated.

Despite his international retirement, Gabriel remains active in domestic cricket, representing Trinidad and Tobago and participating in the Abu Dhabi T10 earlier this year. He plans to continue playing for his country, club, and franchise teams around the world.

Gabriel’s retirement marks the end of an era for West Indies cricket. His pace, aggression, and passion will be missed by fans and teammates alike.

Pakistan's Bowlers Under Fire After Humiliating Test Defeat to Bangladesh

Pakistan’s Bowlers Under Fire After Humiliating Test Defeat to Bangladesh

Pakistan’s humiliating 10-wicket defeat to Bangladesh in the first Test match in Rawalpindi has sparked widespread criticism and dissatisfaction within the team management. The team’s performance, particularly that of the four fast bowlers, has come under intense scrutiny.

According to sources, the team management has expressed its disappointment with the performance of Shaheen Afridi, Khurram Shahzad, Mohammad Ali, and Naseem Shah. The bowlers failed to exploit the conditions to their advantage, and the lack of a quality spinner proved to be a major issue.

Senior players have also voiced their concerns, expressing disappointment over the fast bowlers’ inability to utilize the grass on the pitch and their declining pace. These issues were reportedly discussed in the dressing room after the match.

In the match itself, Bangladesh’s Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Shakib Al Hasan took seven wickets between them to secure their maiden win over Pakistan in five-day cricket. Mehidy grabbed 4-21 and Shakib 3-44, triggering a Pakistan collapse on the fifth day.

Pakistan was dismissed for 146 runs in 55.5 overs, leaving Bangladesh with a target of just 30 runs. Openers Zakir Hasan and Shadman Islam reached the target in 6.3 overs, with Zakir hitting the winning boundary.

Mohammad Rizwan top-scored for Pakistan in the second innings with 51, but the home team was staring at defeat at lunch. A holiday crowd of nearly 5,000 expected Pakistan to fight out a draw, but Mehidy’s bowling proved too strong.

The defeat has raised serious questions about Pakistan’s bowling attack and the team’s overall performance. The team management will need to address these issues quickly as they prepare for the second Test match in Dhaka.

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