Jay Shah Elected as Youngest ICC Chairman

Jay Shah Elected as Youngest ICC Chairman

Jay Shah, the current secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), has been unanimously elected as the new chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC). He will assume the role on December 1, 2023, becoming the youngest person to hold the position at the age of 35.

Shah’s election comes after Greg Barclay, who had served as ICC chairman for two terms since 2020, announced his decision not to seek a third term. The ICC board of directors had until August 27 to file nominations for the next chairman, and Shah was the only candidate nominated.

In a statement, Shah expressed his gratitude for the nomination and outlined his vision for the ICC. He emphasized the importance of globalizing cricket, promoting technological advancements, and introducing marquee events to new markets. Shah also highlighted the significance of the sport’s inclusion in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics as a catalyst for growth.

Shah’s appointment marks the fifth time an Indian has led the ICC, following Jagmohan Dalmiya, Sharad Pawar, N Srinivasan, and Shashank Manohar. He has been involved in cricket administration since 2009, starting in the state of Gujarat. In 2019, he became the BCCI secretary and was re-elected in 2022.

Upon assuming the ICC chairmanship, Shah will relinquish his positions at the BCCI and the ICC’s Finance & Commercial Affairs (F&CA) committee. He previously served as the Asian Cricket Council president from 2021 to 2024.

Shah’s election is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the ICC. His experience in cricket administration and his commitment to innovation are seen as key factors in his ability to lead the sport into a new era.

Pakistan's Fast-Bowling Stocks in Decline, Says Rashid Latif

Pakistan’s Fast-Bowling Stocks in Decline, Says Rashid Latif

Pakistan’s former captain, Rashid Latif, has expressed concern over the decline in the country’s fast-bowling stocks. He lamented that pacers who once started at 145kmph have now slowed down to 130kmph.

Latif’s comments came after Pakistan’s humiliating ten-wicket defeat to Bangladesh in the first Test at Rawalpindi. The hosts opted for an all-pace attack but failed to contain the visitors on a docile pitch. Bangladesh amassed 565 runs, while Pakistan declared at 448/6.

In the second innings, Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Shakib Al Hasan shared seven wickets to dismiss Pakistan for a mere 146. Bangladesh chased down the target of 30 runs in just 6.3 overs, securing their first-ever Test win over Pakistan.

Latif attributed the defeat to the lack of pace in Pakistan’s bowling attack. “Our top fast bowlers no longer bowl at breakneck pace,” he said. “Shaheen (Afridi), Naseem (Shah), and Khurram (Shahzad) started off with pace of 145. They all have come down to 130.”

He also criticized the Pakistan support staff for failing to keep the pacers in prime shape. “Our trainers and physios are to blame,” he said. “Look at Jofra Archer, Jasprit Bumrah, and Pat Cummins. They all came back from injuries without losing any pace.”

Latif further pointed out that Bangladesh’s spinners played a crucial role in their victory. “We no longer have quality spinners like we used to,” he said. “Instead, we relied on pace, but the tactics backfired.”

He also criticized Pakistan’s decision to declare too early in their first innings. “They should have aimed for 550,” he said. “Falling 100 runs short ultimately made the difference.”

Latif concluded by praising Bangladesh for their tactical acumen. “They read the conditions well and outplayed Pakistan,” he said. “They wore down the Pakistani bowlers and then capitalized.”

Dinesh Karthik Joins Legends League Cricket After Retirement

Dinesh Karthik Joins Legends League Cricket After Retirement

Dinesh Karthik, the former Indian wicketkeeper-batsman, has announced his participation in the upcoming edition of the Legends League Cricket (LLC), following in the footsteps of Shikhar Dhawan. Karthik, who retired from all forms of cricket in June, will now embark on a new chapter in his illustrious career.

Known for his explosive middle-order batting, agile wicket-keeping skills, and recent success as a commentator, Karthik’s entry into the LLC marks a fresh start. The 39-year-old expressed his excitement about joining the league, stating, “Playing at the Legends League Cricket is definitely something I am looking forward to after my retirement. I am up to the task both mentally and physically and look forward to playing the brand of cricket I have always enjoyed.”

Throughout his career, Karthik represented India in 180 matches across three formats, accumulating 3,463 runs and 172 dismissals. In the Indian Premier League (IPL), he had a remarkable journey spanning 17 years, amassing 4,842 runs in 257 matches and representing six different franchises.

Raman Raheja, Co-founder of LLC, welcomed Karthik to the league, saying, “We are very excited to have Dinesh Karthik join us. His flair and his penchant to finish matches and entertain the crowd will undoubtedly add value to the Legends League Cricket.”

The upcoming season of the LLC is scheduled to kick off in September 2024, featuring a roster of retired cricket icons. The LLC auction will take place on August 29 in New Delhi, where franchises will compete for the top players from both Indian and international cricket.

Karthik’s participation in the LLC is a testament to his continued passion for the game and his desire to entertain fans once again. His presence in the league will undoubtedly add excitement and star power to the competition.

India Women Aim to Emulate Men's T20 World Cup Triumph

India Women Aim to Emulate Men’s T20 World Cup Triumph

India’s women’s cricket team, led by Harmanpreet Kaur, is drawing inspiration from the men’s team’s recent T20 World Cup triumph as they prepare for their own campaign in the UAE in October. The women’s team has yet to lift the T20 World Cup, coming close in 2020 when they finished as runners-up in Australia.

“We have been really inspired by the men’s team, the way they won the T20 World Cup this year,” Kaur said. “They worked really hard for this trophy and won some tough matches. We need to learn how they maintained their body language for such matches and how they approached such games.”

The women’s team has faced heartbreak in recent major tournaments, losing the ODI World Cup final in 2017, the T20 World Cup final in 2020, and the Commonwealth Games final in 2022, all by narrow margins. They also suffered a disappointing defeat to Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup last month.

However, Kaur is confident that her team has learned from their mistakes and is ready to challenge for the title in the UAE. “We are working extremely hard to live up to those expectations, we have been holding camps where all players are working hard. We have also worked on the mistakes we made the last time. Now we’re ready with a positive mindset.”

India is placed in Group A with Australia, Sri Lanka, New Zealand, and Pakistan for the upcoming T20 World Cup. Kaur acknowledges the pressure of facing these strong teams but emphasizes the importance of staying focused and playing to their potential.

“The World Cup is a kind of tournament for which all teams prepare differently,” Kaur said. “So no team can be taken lightly and similarly no team should be overestimated either. We are working extremely hard to live up to those expectations.”

India’s campaign will kick off on October 4 against New Zealand, before taking on Pakistan on October 6, Sri Lanka on October 9, and Australia on October 13. The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals on October 17 and 18, with the final scheduled for October 20 in Dubai.

Jasprit Bumrah's Grand Reception in Chennai Highlights His Star Power

Jasprit Bumrah’s Grand Reception in Chennai Highlights His Star Power

Jasprit Bumrah, India’s star speedster, has emerged as a fan favorite and a formidable force in the cricketing world. His recent appearance at the Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology in Chennai showcased the immense popularity he enjoys among cricket enthusiasts.

Upon his arrival, Bumrah was greeted with thunderous applause and a warm welcome by the event organizers. Dressed in a stylish blue shirt and grey trousers, the 30-year-old pacer exuded his signature calm demeanor. The crowd’s energy and enthusiasm were palpable, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.

Bumrah’s most recent competitive outing was in the T20 World Cup final in Barbados, where he played a pivotal role in India’s triumph. His two wickets in the final proved crucial in securing India’s first ICC trophy in over a decade, earning him the Player of the Tournament award.

Following this achievement, India’s new coach, Gautam Gambhir, decided to rest Bumrah for the subsequent series against Sri Lanka, allowing him time to recuperate before upcoming challenges. Bumrah is set to return to action in a two-match Test series against Bangladesh in September, with the opening match scheduled at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

This series will be followed by India’s engagements against New Zealand and a subsequent tour to South Africa for T20I series before the Border Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. Bumrah’s presence in these upcoming matches is highly anticipated, as he is expected to play a key role in India’s quest for success.

Rishabh Pant Responds to Fan's Unusual Request with Heartfelt Message

Rishabh Pant Responds to Fan’s Unusual Request with Heartfelt Message

Rishabh Pant’s Heartfelt Response to a Fan’s Unusual Request

Indian cricket star Rishabh Pant has garnered attention for his compassionate response to a fan’s unconventional request. The fan, struggling to fund his engineering education, reached out to Pant on social media, hoping for financial assistance.

Despite the unusual nature of the request, Pant took the time to respond, offering words of encouragement and support. “Keep chasing your dreams. God has better plans always,” Pant wrote.

While the fan did not receive the financial aid he sought, he expressed gratitude for Pant’s response, hoping it would draw attention to his situation. Pant’s gesture highlights the human side of celebrity athletes, who often face a barrage of requests from their fans.

Pant’s response also reflects his personal journey. After suffering a career-threatening injury in late 2022, he has made a remarkable comeback, showcasing his resilience and determination.

The incident serves as a reminder of the power of kindness and the importance of supporting those in need. Pant’s response has resonated with fans, who have praised him for his empathy and compassion.

Sir Donald Bradman: The Boy from Bowral and the Legend of Cricket

Sir Donald Bradman: The Boy from Bowral and the Legend of Cricket

Sir Donald Bradman, the legendary Australian cricketer, was born in Cootamundra, New South Wales, on August 27, 1908. However, his family relocated to Bowral, a town 265 miles away, where he spent his formative years. This earned him the nickname “The Boy from Bowral.”

Bradman’s cricketing prowess was evident from an early age. He made his Test debut in 1928 and went on to play 52 Tests, scoring a staggering 6,996 runs at an astonishing average of 99.94. Of these Tests, 37 were against England, five against India, and the remaining 10 against South Africa and the West Indies.

Bradman’s batting was characterized by its elegance, precision, and an uncanny ability to score runs at a rapid pace. He holds the record for the most double centuries or more, with 12 to his name, including two triple centuries.

Two Test wickets stand out in Bradman’s illustrious career. Ivan Barrow of the West Indies and Wally Hammond of England were the only two batsmen to dismiss him in Test matches.

Bradman’s career average of 99.94 is considered the holy grail of cricket. It is said that if he had scored four runs in his final Test innings, his average would have been a perfect 100. However, he was dismissed for a duck by England spinner Eric Hollies, denying him this elusive milestone.

Another notable incident in Bradman’s career occurred when Indian bowler Lala Amarnath dismissed him “hit-wicket.” Bradman was so impressed by Amarnath’s bowling that he later remarked that his “batting reminded me of my own batting” and dubbed him “Little Bonzer.”

Bradman’s legacy extends beyond his cricketing achievements. He was a true gentleman of the game, known for his humility and sportsmanship. He was also a successful businessman and philanthropist.

Bradman passed away on February 25, 2001, at the age of 92. He remains an icon of Australian cricket and one of the greatest batsmen of all time.

Olly Stone Vows to Match Mark Wood's Pace in Lord's Test

Olly Stone Vows to Match Mark Wood’s Pace in Lord’s Test

Olly Stone, the 30-year-old left-arm fast bowler, is set to make his fourth Test appearance for England at Lord’s this week, replacing the injured Mark Wood. Stone has pledged to push his limits and match Wood’s blistering speeds, who clocked 97mph/156kph against West Indies last month.

Stone’s career has been plagued by injuries, including a hamstring issue that sidelined him for most of last season. However, he has made a strong comeback this summer, featuring in 28 matches across formats for Nottinghamshire and London Spirit.

In the absence of Wood, Stone will be tasked with providing England with short, sharp bursts of pace. “It’s been pretty frightening… the way he’s come in and bowled this summer is very exciting,” Stone said of Wood. “Hopefully, I can go out there and try to touch his speeds. He’s obviously up there with the fastest in the world so I’m not sure if I’ll match it – but I’ll give it a good shot.”

Stone made his Test debut at Lord’s in 2019, but underwent back surgery in 2021. He credits the procedure with his return to fitness and his unwavering determination to play Test cricket. “It’s the best thing I ever went in for,” he said. “Thankfully – touch wood – so far, I’ve had no recurrences with that… I’ll keep coming back for Test cricket until my body tells me otherwise.”

Stone’s selection is a testament to England’s focus on attributes over averages. National selector Luke Wright explained that Sam Cook would have been called up if Chris Woakes had been injured, but Stone’s height and left-arm angle gave him the edge over Cook.

England’s XI for the second Test against Sri Lanka at Lord’s:

1. Ben Duckett
2. Dan Lawrence
3. Ollie Pope (capt)
4. Joe Root
5. Harry Brook
6. Jamie Smith (wk)
7. Chris Woakes
8. Gus Atkinson
9. Matthew Potts
10. Olly Stone
11. Shoaib Bashir

Harmanpreet Kaur Confident of India's Maiden World Cup Triumph

Harmanpreet Kaur Confident of India’s Maiden World Cup Triumph

Harmanpreet Kaur, the skipper of the Indian women’s cricket team, exudes confidence in her team’s ability to clinch their maiden global title at the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup. She believes that the playing conditions in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), where the tournament has been relocated due to political instability in Bangladesh, could favor the Indian side.

Despite the change in venue, Harmanpreet remains unfazed, stating that the conditions in the UAE are similar to those in India. “We have not played much cricket in the UAE, but the conditions are going to be similar to Indian conditions,” she said. “We will see how the conditions play out and try to adjust ourselves as soon as possible.”

Harmanpreet emphasized the importance of a positive and assertive approach throughout the World Cup. “As a team, we learn from our defeats and break those barriers that are pushing us back. Hopefully, this time we can express ourselves in a more positive way in the World Cup,” she said.

She expressed confidence in the Indian bowling attack, despite their struggles in the recent Asia Cup final against Sri Lanka. “The bowlers are working really hard as a team and, hopefully, in this World Cup, we tick all the boxes,” she said.

Harmanpreet, who led Mumbai Indians to victory in the inaugural Women’s Premier League (WPL), stressed the significance of staying focused on the present moment. “It is always important for us to play good cricket, keeping ourselves in the present. Whatever the situation is in front of us, we go there and evaluate it as soon as possible,” she said.

The Indian women’s cricket team has consistently performed well in major tournaments, reaching the final of the 2020 T20 World Cup and the semifinals of the 2023 Women’s T20 World Cup. Harmanpreet’s leadership and the team’s determination to break the final barrier and secure their first global title will be crucial in their quest for glory in the upcoming tournament.

England Consider Root, Stokes for 2025 Champions Trophy Despite 50-Over Absence

England Consider Root, Stokes for 2025 Champions Trophy Despite 50-Over Absence

England’s selectors are considering recalling Joe Root and Ben Stokes for the 2025 Champions Trophy despite their absence from 50-over cricket since last year’s World Cup. Both players are currently unavailable due to rest and injury, respectively, and will miss the upcoming ODI series against Australia and the tour to the West Indies.

The Champions Trophy, scheduled for mid-February in Pakistan, will provide England with a crucial opportunity to prepare for the tournament. The team will play three ODIs in India at the start of the month, which will be the only chance for Root, Stokes, and other all-format players like Chris Woakes and Mark Wood to gain experience in the 50-over format before the tournament.

England’s selector, Luke Wright, emphasized the importance of fielding a strong team for the Champions Trophy. “We’ll want to be as strong as possible,” Wright said. “There’s no Test cricket around at that point, so it gives us an opportunity to play our strongest team.”

Despite Root’s struggles at the World Cup, Wright defended the decision to rest him against Australia, citing his heavy workload in recent years. “He’s given a lot to English cricket,” Wright said. “There’s no reason why he can’t then come into the major tournaments… we know how important Joe is to the England team.”

Wright acknowledged the challenges of adjusting to the 50-over format, which English players rarely play. “It’s a challenge for everyone, isn’t it? And even more so for us in England… Those top players are able to adapt as well as possible, as I don’t think it’s as big a problem for them as it would be for some of the others.”

England have dropped Moeen Ali and Jonny Bairstow from both their T20I and ODI squads, but Wright denied that their international careers are over. “They’re disappointed to miss out,” he said. “I certainly won’t be saying that that’s the end for them. They’re fine cricketers, but right now, we just want to give some other opportunities.”

Jos Buttler remains as captain despite England’s recent struggles in white-ball cricket. He is under pressure heading into the Australia series and may hand over the wicketkeeping duties to Phil Salt in the T20Is. Wright indicated that Buttler is considering fielding at mid-off to be closer to his bowlers.

Wright emphasized the need to restore energy to the white-ball set-up after two disappointing World Cup campaigns. “I wouldn’t say [things have been] stale,” Wright said. “Those guys have given us some of the best times we’ve had in white-ball cricket. It’s life… It’s a great time now: without a World Cup just round the corner as there hasn’t been for a while is an opportunity to blood some new players.”

England’s squad for the Australia ODIs includes three uncapped players: Jacob Bethell, Josh Hull, and John Turner. Wright highlighted the importance of providing opportunities for younger players in the 50-over format.

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