Mumbai Extends Lead in Irani Cup, Sets Up Thrilling Finish

Mumbai Extends Lead in Irani Cup, Sets Up Thrilling Finish

The Irani Cup’s fourth day witnessed a dramatic turn of events as Mumbai extended their lead over Rest of India, setting the stage for a thrilling finish.

Resuming their overnight partnership, Abhimanyu Easwaran and Dhruv Jurel looked poised to challenge Mumbai’s imposing first-innings total of 537. However, Shams Mulani’s incisive bowling proved too much for the duo. In quick succession, Mulani dismissed Jurel (93) and Easwaran (191), extinguishing Rest of India’s hopes of a substantial lead.

With the fifth wicket falling, Rest of India’s batting collapsed, losing their remaining wickets for just 23 runs. Tanush Kotian and Mulani shared the spoils, claiming three wickets each. Mumbai’s lead swelled to a comfortable 121 runs.

In their second innings, Mumbai’s batting was anchored by Prithvi Shaw. Despite losing wickets at the other end, Shaw remained unfazed, scoring a fluent 76 off 105 deliveries. His innings included eight boundaries and a six.

Saransh Jain and Manav Suthar provided the breakthroughs for Rest of India, claiming four and two wickets respectively. However, Mumbai’s lead had already reached 274 runs by the end of the day’s play.

Rest of India face an uphill task on the fifth morning. They must quickly dismiss the remaining Mumbai batters and set themselves a manageable target. However, the presence of spinners in the game suggests that the chase could be a daunting one. Mumbai, on the other hand, will be confident of wrapping up the match and securing victory.

Team India Sharpens Fielding Skills for Bangladesh T20I Opener

Team India Sharpens Fielding Skills for Bangladesh T20I Opener

Team India Intensifies Fielding Preparations Ahead of Bangladesh T20I Opener

The Indian cricket team is leaving no stone unturned in their preparations for the upcoming T20I series against Bangladesh, commencing on Sunday in Gwalior. The players recently engaged in a rigorous fielding practice session under the watchful eyes of fielding coach T Dilip and assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate.

Dilip, renowned for his transformative impact on the team’s fielding performance, has introduced the Best Fielder Award during World Cup matches to motivate players to excel in this crucial aspect of the game. During the training session, he emphasized the importance of proper technique, guiding the players to “get your feet where you are throwing.”

All-rounder Hardik Pandya and spinner Varun Chakravarthy displayed exceptional dedication during the practice, while head coach Gautam Gambhir closely monitored the players’ progress. Suryakumar Yadav, Abhishek Sharma, and Ravi Bishnoi showcased impressive catches, highlighting the team’s commitment to fielding excellence.

Following the conclusion of the Test series, India and Bangladesh will engage in a three-match T20I series. Suryakumar will continue to lead the Indian side, with Sanju Samson and Jitesh Sharma serving as wicketkeeper-batters.

The T20I series will kick off with the first match in Gwalior on October 6, followed by the second and third matches in Delhi on October 9 and Hyderabad on October 12, respectively.

Australia, England Aim for Dominant Starts in T20 World Cup

Australia, England Aim for Dominant Starts in T20 World Cup

Australia vs Sri Lanka: Aussies Aim to Extend Dominance

Australia, the reigning T20 World Champions, will face Sri Lanka in a crucial Group 1 encounter in Sharjah. The Aussies have never lost to Sri Lanka in T20Is, and they will be looking to maintain their perfect record.

Sri Lanka, on the other hand, are under pressure after losing their tournament opener to Pakistan. They will need to improve their fielding and batting if they want to challenge Australia.

Australia’s strength lies in their all-rounders, who can contribute with both bat and ball. Beth Mooney, the Player of the Tournament in the 2023 edition, will be key for Australia. She has been in good form in the lead-up to the tournament, scoring a half-century in the warm-up against England.

Sri Lanka will rely on their captain, Chamari Athapaththu, to lead the charge. Athapaththu is a dangerous batter who can take the game away from the opposition. She will need support from her teammates, especially Nilakshika Silva and Vishmi Gunaratne.

The match is expected to be a close contest, with both teams having their strengths and weaknesses. Australia will be the favorites, but Sri Lanka will be determined to prove that they can compete with the best.

Bangladesh vs England: England Eye Dominant Start

Bangladesh will face England in a Group 2 match in Sharjah. Bangladesh started their tournament with a win against Scotland, but they will face a much tougher challenge against England.

England are one of the favorites to win the tournament, and they have a strong team on paper. They have a good mix of experience and youth, and they are led by the experienced Heather Knight.

Bangladesh will need to play their best cricket if they want to beat England. They will need to bat well and restrict England’s scoring. Nigar Sultana, the Bangladesh captain, will be key for her team. She is a good all-rounder who can contribute with both bat and ball.

England will be confident of victory, but they will not underestimate Bangladesh. They know that Bangladesh can be a dangerous team on their day.

The match is expected to be a competitive one, with both teams having a chance of winning. England will be the favorites, but Bangladesh will be determined to cause an upset.

India Faces New Zealand in Crucial Women's T20 World Cup Opener

India Faces New Zealand in Crucial Women’s T20 World Cup Opener

India vs New Zealand: A Crucial Clash in the Women’s T20 World Cup

India’s quest for their maiden Women’s T20 World Cup title begins with a formidable challenge against New Zealand, a team known for their resilience and determination. While New Zealand may not be as highly regarded as their Trans-Tasman rivals Australia, they pose a significant threat to India’s aspirations.

India’s recent performances in global events have been marred by mental fragility at crucial moments. To address this issue, the team underwent counseling sessions during their preparatory camp at the National Cricket Academy. However, the true test of their mental fortitude will come on the field.

Harmanpreet Kaur, India’s skipper, is likely making her final appearance in the T20 World Cup. She has witnessed numerous near misses and disappointments, including India’s defeat to Australia in the 2020 final. This Indian team boasts an abundance of talent, but they must execute their strategies flawlessly to overcome the reigning champions Australia.

India’s batting lineup will be under the spotlight against New Zealand. Senior players like Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma, and Harmanpreet Kaur will need to deliver stellar performances to provide a solid foundation for the team.

India's Centre of Excellence Opens in Bengaluru, Ushering in a New Era for Cricket

India’s Centre of Excellence Opens in Bengaluru, Ushering in a New Era for Cricket

India’s Long-Awaited Centre of Excellence Opens in Bengaluru

After years of anticipation, the Indian cricket fraternity has finally unveiled its state-of-the-art Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. Located near the Kempegowda International Airport, the academy was inaugurated on September 28 by BCCI President Roger Binny and Secretary Jay Shah.

The facility boasts world-class infrastructure, including:

* Indoor and outdoor practice nets: With advanced technology for ball tracking and analysis.
* High-performance gym: Equipped with the latest fitness equipment and expert trainers.
* Sports science and medicine center: Providing cutting-edge medical care, nutrition, and rehabilitation services.
* Residential facilities: Accommodating up to 100 players and support staff.
* Cricket museum: Showcasing the rich history of Indian cricket.

The academy aims to nurture young talent and develop elite cricketers for the national team. It will provide comprehensive training programs, including:

* Technical coaching: By experienced coaches using innovative techniques.
* Physical conditioning: Tailored to the specific needs of cricketers.
* Mental training: To enhance focus, resilience, and decision-making.
* Nutritional guidance: To optimize performance and recovery.

The Centre of Excellence is a testament to the BCCI’s commitment to developing Indian cricket. It is expected to play a pivotal role in producing world-class players who will represent the country with distinction on the international stage.

Australia Prepares for India's Dominance in Border-Gavaskar Trophy

Australia Prepares for India’s Dominance in Border-Gavaskar Trophy

Australia Braces for India’s Dominance in Border-Gavaskar Trophy

Ahead of the highly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Australian cricket star Steve Smith has acknowledged the formidable challenge posed by India. In a recent Star Sports promo, Smith expressed his respect for India’s dominance, stating, “We know they are very difficult to beat.”

The upcoming five-match Test series, beginning on November 22, marks the first such encounter between Australia and India since the 1991/92 season. Australian skipper Pat Cummins is determined to make amends after losing to India in two consecutive series at home. “We have not been successful in the last two series here in Australia. So it’s been a long time, hopefully time to make amends,” Cummins said.

Aussie spinner Nathan Lyon echoed Smith’s sentiments, praising the Indian squad. “I’ve always said throughout my whole career I wanna compete against the best. When you look through the whole Indian line-up. The whole squad is absolutely superstars wherever you look in. You want to compete and challenge yourself against them and can’t wait to have the Indian guys out here,” Lyon said.

India’s recent Test series win against Bangladesh has solidified their position atop the World Test Championship (WTC) standings. With eight wins, two losses, and one draw, India has amassed 98 points and a points percentage of 74.24. If India defeats New Zealand 3-0 at home, they will secure their place in the WTC final at Lord’s in June 2025 before even heading to Australia.

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy will thus be a contest of pride, with the world’s No. 1 team aiming to retain the series. Australia, on the other hand, is determined to break India’s dominance and prove their mettle on foreign soil.

South Africa Opt to Bat First in Second ODI Against Ireland

South Africa Opt to Bat First in Second ODI Against Ireland

South Africa, led by captain Temba Bavuma, have opted to bat first in the second ODI against Ireland in Abu Dhabi. This decision marks the second consecutive toss win for Bavuma in the three-match series, which South Africa aims to clinch with a 2-0 lead.

Tony de Zorzi, South Africa’s opener, has been rested for the match due to a soft tissue injury in his right knee. He sustained the injury while sliding to make a stop in the deep during the first ODI. Kyle Verreynne has been brought in as his replacement, while Bavuma will move up to open alongside Ryan Rickelton, who played a crucial role in the previous game with a 91-run knock.

Nandre Burger, who missed the series opener, has been ruled out of the remaining tour, including South Africa’s upcoming two-match Test series in Bangladesh, due to a lumbar stress reaction.

Ireland, on the other hand, has fielded an unchanged XI from the team that lost by 139 runs in the first ODI. Paul Stirling continues to lead the side, with Andy Balbirnie, Curtis Campher, Harry Tector, and Stephen Doheny forming the core of the batting lineup.

Stokes Doubtful for Pakistan Test, Crawley Declared Fit

Stokes Doubtful for Pakistan Test, Crawley Declared Fit

Ben Stokes’ participation in the first Test of England’s tour to Pakistan remains uncertain, while Zak Crawley has declared himself fit to play. Stokes, who has been recovering from a hamstring injury, batted and bowled briefly in the nets on Friday but his inclusion in the team is not guaranteed.

If Stokes is ruled out, Ollie Pope will continue as England’s captain after leading them to a 2-1 win against Sri Lanka. Chris Woakes could also be in contention to play his first overseas Test in two-and-a-half years, providing balance to the side from No. 7.

Crawley, who missed the Sri Lanka series with a broken finger, believes England have the depth to cope with Stokes’ potential absence. “We’ve got a really deep squad, with plenty of options with the ball and with the bat as well,” he said.

England are expected to name their XI two days before the first Test, and Crawley suggested a late call would be made on Stokes’ inclusion. “He seems to be going well, recovering well from his injury,” he said. “We don’t know just yet. I think he’s got to do a few more tests, but he’s been doing some running and stuff.”

Crawley himself has not played competitively since England’s third Test against West Indies in July. He fractured his little finger while dropping a catch in the slips and his absence highlighted his importance to the side.

England trained for the first time in Multan on Friday, the venue for the first two Tests of the series. Crawley said he felt “brand new” and ready to play, despite not fielding in the slips.

“The finger is all right,” Crawley said. “It’s as good as it could be at this stage. I’ve recovered well from it. It was a nasty break at the time, but I’ve recovered well and I don’t feel it at all while I’m batting.”

Crawley set the tone for England’s clean sweep on their most recent tour to Pakistan with an 86-ball hundred on the first day of the series in Rawalpindi. He believes he has become a more adaptable player since then.

“You’ve got to read the conditions,” he said. “That’s something I’ve thought about in the past couple of months, being more adaptable, playing the right shots, still being very aggressive – that’s always going to be me – but just playing the right shots.”

Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana: A Dynamic Duo Leading India's World Cup Charge

Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana: A Dynamic Duo Leading India’s World Cup Charge

Shafali Verma, the dynamic opener of the Indian women’s cricket team, has forged an unbreakable bond with her batting partner, Smriti Mandhana. Their contrasting styles complement each other perfectly, with Shafali’s aggressive approach blending seamlessly with Mandhana’s elegant strokeplay.

“We can sense each other’s feelings just by our facial expressions while batting,” Shafali revealed. “We know each other’s strengths and weaknesses, and we give each other positive vibes.”

This understanding has been crucial to India’s recent dominance in women’s cricket. Shafali acknowledges the importance of their partnership, especially during the powerplay. “We try to perform well for ourselves, our teammates, and the country,” she said.

Shafali admires Mandhana’s exceptional timing and ability to construct big innings. “These are the two things I admire most about her batting,” she said.

As India embarks on its Women’s T20 World Cup campaign, Shafali is determined to make amends for the team’s runner-up finish in 2020. “Winning the World Cup has always been a dream for Harmanpreet di,” she said, referring to captain Harmanpreet Kaur. “She’s a great player, a great teammate, and a fantastic captain who inspires and motivates us all the time.”

Shafali made her World Cup debut at the tender age of 16. Despite missing out on the trophy by a whisker, she is confident of changing that this time around. “We were so close to winning, but hopefully, we can change that this time around,” she said.

The experience of playing in the final against Australia in front of a packed MCG crowd has taught Shafali to handle pressure better. “I couldn’t hear anything because of the massive crowd,” she recalled. “I’ve learned to focus more now.”

Shafali’s journey has been marked by both triumphs and setbacks. But through it all, she has remained steadfast in her pursuit of excellence. Her partnership with Mandhana is a testament to the power of teamwork and mutual respect. As India aims to conquer the world stage, Shafali and Mandhana will undoubtedly play a pivotal role.

India's Women's T20 World Cup Hopes Hinge on Consistency

India’s Women’s T20 World Cup Hopes Hinge on Consistency

India’s Women’s T20 World Cup campaign kicks off on Friday with a highly anticipated clash against New Zealand. The team, led by Harmanpreet Kaur, boasts a strong lineup featuring Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma, and Deepti Sharma.

Despite reaching the final in 2020 and the semi-final in 2022, India has fallen short against Australia on both occasions. However, former India regular Punam Raut believes the team has a chance to make a strong run this year.

“We have a very good setup and a strong team,” Raut said. “Our preparations have been excellent, and we have been playing well.”

Raut highlighted the importance of consistency, particularly in the batting department. “In T20, bringing consistency is the most difficult thing for a batter,” she said. “If our main five batters consistently perform well, only then can we win.”

The tournament will be played in the United Arab Emirates, a familiar venue for the Indian team. Raut believes the conditions will favor spinners, who could be the X-factor in the competition.

“Spinners will be the X-factor in this World Cup because the conditions are favorable for them,” Raut said. “We have quite a few good spinners, like Shreyanka Patil and Deepti Sharma.”

India’s second match in the tournament will be against Pakistan, a team they have traditionally dominated. Raut attributed this dominance to Pakistan’s lack of batting strength.

“Pakistan always lack in batting, but they have a good bowling strength,” Raut said. “If they have a good batting strength, they can do well against India.”

Australia remains the favorite to win the tournament, but Raut believes India can challenge them if they can overcome their consistency issues.

“Australia are a very good team, and we have to accept that,” Raut said. “But if our main five batters consistently perform well, only then can we win.”

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