Pakistan Women Opt to Bat First in T20 World Cup Clash Against Sri Lanka

Pakistan Women Opt to Bat First in T20 World Cup Clash Against Sri Lanka

Pakistan Women Elect to Bat First in T20 World Cup Clash Against Sri Lanka

In a highly anticipated clash at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024, Pakistan Women have won the toss and elected to bat first against Sri Lanka Women. The match marks a significant moment for both teams, as Sri Lanka aims to continue their impressive form while Pakistan seeks to make a strong start to the tournament.

Sri Lanka has enjoyed a remarkable year, securing their first-ever Women’s Asia Cup title last July with a commanding victory over India. Captain Chamari Athapaththu expressed her team’s underdog status and their determination to play without pressure.

“We are coming with underdog tag all the time. So, we don’t have any pressure. I don’t want to take too much pressure on my shoulders and my teammates’ shoulders. But we keep it simple. I have a very young team, so we have a few seniors as well. I hope we can continue our best performance, because we’ve been playing really good cricket the last 16 months. This is a different format and different conditions, so we have to start again, fresh days. So, keep it simple, one ball one time, one game one time.”

Pakistan, led by Fatima Sana, will be eager to prove their mettle against a formidable Sri Lankan side. The team features experienced players like Nida Dar and Aliya Riaz, as well as promising youngsters like Muneeba Ali and Tuba Hassan.

“I will try to enjoy myself, express myself and back myself as well (as captain). Actually, our whole management is supporting me, and they told me that you just take a brave decision on the field, so just try to do this, be calm and just do whatever you want.”

The match promises to be a thrilling encounter between two teams with contrasting strengths and ambitions. Sri Lanka will look to maintain their momentum and upset the more fancied Pakistan side, while Pakistan will be determined to make a statement and establish themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the tournament.

India Aims for Historic Double: Women's T20 World Cup Title After Men's Triumph

India Aims for Historic Double: Women’s T20 World Cup Title After Men’s Triumph

India’s quest for their maiden Women’s T20 World Cup title is fueled by the recent triumph of the men’s team, who ended a long trophy drought by winning the Men’s T20 World Cup earlier this year. The Indian women’s team is eager to replicate that success and make history by becoming the first nation to win both the men’s and women’s T20 World Cups in the same year.

Batter Jemimah Rodrigues expressed the team’s renewed determination after witnessing the men’s team’s victory. “Seeing them win just before our World Cup made it feel so much more real,” she said. “That desire and passion to win was ignited when we saw Rohit Sharma and the team lifting the trophy.”

Captain Harmanpreet Kaur echoed Rodrigues’ sentiments, stating that a victory would be a special moment for Indian fans and cricket history. “It would be very special,” she said. “If we win, it will create a similar moment for Indian fans and for cricket history back home.”

India’s path to the title begins with their opening match against New Zealand on October 4 in Dubai. They will then face Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Australia in their Group A games. Pacer Renuka Singh Thakur believes that the men’s team’s victory has given them hope and inspiration. “When the boys won, it gave us hope that we could replicate it,” she said.

Opener Shafali Verma added that a victory would be a joyous occasion for the nation. “Yes, the men’s team winning the World Cup was an emotional moment for the entire country,” she said. “If we win too, then it will be two World Cups in a year, which is a big thing for both us and the nation.”

Vice-captain Smriti Mandhana emphasized the importance of focusing on the process rather than the outcome. “Winning two trophies in a year would be a different achievement, but winning the World Cup itself will be very special,” she said. “It’s important for us to follow the process and take it one match at a time.”

Flintoff to Lead England Lions Squad to South Africa for Training Camp and Unofficial Test

Flintoff to Lead England Lions Squad to South Africa for Training Camp and Unofficial Test

Andrew Flintoff, the newly appointed England Lions head coach, will lead a 19-man squad to South Africa next month for a training camp and an unofficial four-day Test against South Africa A. The tour, scheduled from November 20 to December 14, aims to replicate the training methods of the senior men’s squad, who will be playing a Test series in New Zealand during the same period.

The squad includes six new inclusions, including Jafer Chohan, the Yorkshire legspinner who recently earned his first senior white-ball call-up. Chohan, the first graduate of the South Asian Cricket Academy to be named in an England squad, will have a limited role due to prior Big Bash League commitments.

Other notable inclusions are Josh Hull, who withdrew from the ongoing Test tour of Pakistan with a quad injury, and Matt Hurst, the Lancashire wicketkeeper-batter making his first Lions tour. The squad also features several recent graduates from England’s Under-19 set-up, such as Harry Moore, a highly-rated 17-year-old Derbyshire fast bowler, and Freddie McCann, the Nottinghamshire opener who played a crucial role in preserving his team’s top-flight status in the County Championship.

Flintoff expressed his excitement about the potential of the squad, stating, “We’re delighted to have such a high-potential group of players heading to South Africa. We have a mix of well-established performers who’ve been in the England setup and excelled in the domestic game, through to some of the most exciting young talent coming through.”

England Men’s performance director, Ed Barney, emphasized the alignment of the selection with England’s short and long-term needs across all formats, particularly in supporting pace bowlers. He added, “We are also excited about the competitive match opportunities, with a four-day fixture against South Africa A offering the opportunity for the squad to enjoy putting their skills on show against strong opposition.”

The full coaching and support staff for the tour will be announced shortly.

Rohit Sharma's Hilarious Guessing Game on The Great Indian Kapil Show

Rohit Sharma’s Hilarious Guessing Game on The Great Indian Kapil Show

Rohit Sharma’s Hilarious Moment on The Great Indian Kapil Show

Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma recently graced the popular comedy show The Great Indian Kapil Show, along with teammates Suryakumar Yadav, Axar Patel, and Shivam Dube. The episode was filled with laughter and entertainment, including a hilarious mimicry segment.

During the segment, Rohit was tasked with guessing a famous cricketer’s identity based on Axar Patel’s imitation. However, Axar’s attempt to mimic MS Dhoni’s signature shot left Rohit clueless. It was only when Suryakumar Yadav stepped in and recreated Dhoni’s iconic helicopter shot that Rohit finally recognized the impersonation.

Rohit’s response was filled with humor as he playfully scolded Axar for not thinking of the helicopter shot earlier. The moment was captured on camera and shared on social media, much to the delight of fans.

Speaking at an event in Rashin, Maharashtra, Rohit shared how winning the 2024 T20 World Cup had transformed his life. He expressed his joy and satisfaction, stating that after India’s long-awaited triumph, “Our big goal was to win the World Cup, after winning the World Cup, my life has come to life.”

The victory ended an 11-year drought for India in ICC tournaments, with Rohit leading the team to glory after several near misses. The triumph brought immense joy to the Indian cricket fraternity and solidified Rohit’s legacy as one of the most successful captains in Indian cricket history.

India's Test Season: England Series Could Be Kohli's Last

India’s Test Season: England Series Could Be Kohli’s Last

The Indian cricket team embarks on a grueling Test season, with a packed schedule that includes a three-Test series against New Zealand, a tour of Australia for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, and a five-match series against England in 2025.

India’s last Test series victory in England came in 2007, and the Rohit Sharma-led side is determined to break the drought. Former England paceman Stuart Broad believes this could be Virat Kohli’s final tour of England.

“This could be Virat’s last tour of England,” Broad said. “They’ve got so much talent and depth, and England are slightly more youthful and less experienced but have a huge amount of talent and play this front-foot style of cricket.”

Broad predicts a close series, with both teams possessing formidable strengths. “I don’t think it will be a five-nil or a four-nil, it will probably be going down to the last Test. If the weather plays ball, I think it will be 2-2.”

He emphasizes the significance of India’s victory at Lord’s in 2021, which left a lasting impact on the England team. “It was an aggressive test match, Mohammed Siraj bowled fantastically well on the final day, a drier pitch and just getting that bit of movement.”

“It was an amazing, emotional Test match to watch, and I know how much that hurt the England dressing room. Equally, it was very joyous for India to come here – we saw the joy on Kohli’s face and how much that meant to him. I think it’s going to be an absolute crackerjack of a series.”

Mudassar Nazar: Virat Kohli a Legend, Babar Azam Still Has to Prove Himself

Mudassar Nazar: Virat Kohli a Legend, Babar Azam Still Has to Prove Himself

Former Pakistan opener Mudassar Nazar has hailed Virat Kohli as one of the greatest cricketers in history, dismissing comparisons between the Indian superstar and Pakistan’s Babar Azam. Nazar’s comments come amidst Babar’s recent resignation as Pakistan’s white-ball captain and the ongoing turmoil within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

Nazar believes that Babar, despite his impressive batting record, still has a long way to go to match Kohli’s legacy. “There is a hell of a difference between the two players,” Nazar said. “Virat will be remembered as one of the greatest who has graced the game. Babar has still got to make a name for himself.”

Nazar also praised India’s Rohit Sharma, calling him a joy to watch when in form. “I love to watch Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli,” he said. “When they are at the peak and playing well, it is fantastic to watch them. You could sit in front of the TV for hours and just watch those two play.”

Nazar’s comments come as the PCB faces criticism for its handling of the Pakistan cricket team. He believes that the board’s constant tinkering with the captaincy has contributed to the team’s recent struggles. “It is our own doing (the friction between Babar and Shaheen),” Nazar said. “We shouldn’t have messed around with the set-up.”

Nazar urged the PCB to provide more support to its captain, regardless of who it may be. “There was one set captain, we should have given him a longer term and if somebody else had been made a captain, then he should have had a decent go at it. And not been thrown out straight away.”

The PCB is yet to name a new white-ball captain following Babar’s resignation. Pakistan’s next assignment is the home Test series against England, which commences on October 7 in Multan.

Kaif Urges RCB to Acquire Rohit Sharma as Captain for IPL 2025

Kaif Urges RCB to Acquire Rohit Sharma as Captain for IPL 2025

Former Indian cricketer Mohammed Kaif has suggested that Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) should consider acquiring Rohit Sharma as their captain ahead of the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) auction. Kaif’s proposal stems from the recent announcement of IPL’s retention and auction rules, as well as rumors surrounding Rohit’s future with Mumbai Indians (MI).

Rohit, the current Indian skipper, has led MI to five IPL titles. However, MI’s disappointing performance in the 2024 season, where they finished last with only four wins, has raised questions about his future with the franchise.

Kaif believes that RCB, despite boasting star players like Virat Kohli and Chris Gayle, has never won an IPL trophy due to a lack of effective leadership. He argues that Rohit’s exceptional captaincy skills, evident in his recent ICC T20 World Cup victory, could transform RCB’s fortunes.

“RCB should take this chance. Somehow convince Rohit and make him the captain. He might not score that much as a batter, he scores forties and fifties, but I believe Rohit knows how to build a playing eleven very well,” Kaif said.

Kaif emphasized that Rohit should focus solely on captaincy in the IPL, given his proven track record as a leader. “Rohit Sharma should play as a captain only in the IPL because he is such a great captain. He has come after winning the T20 World Cup. He would have offers. We know people would have been calling him and asking him to play for them. I feel he should take the role of a captain only, whichever franchise is offering it,” he said.

Rohit’s impressive IPL record, with 6,628 runs at an average of 29.72 and a strike rate of 131.14, further supports Kaif’s suggestion. His ability to build a cohesive team and inspire players to perform at their best could be the key to RCB’s long-awaited IPL triumph.

Rohit Sharma's World Cup Triumph Transforms His Life

Rohit Sharma’s World Cup Triumph Transforms His Life

Indian cricket legend Rohit Sharma’s recent remarks in Marathi have ignited excitement among fans. Speaking at an event in Rashin, Maharashtra, Rohit expressed how winning the 2024 T20 World Cup has profoundly impacted his life.

“Our big goal was to win the World Cup, after winning the World Cup, my life has come to life,” he said, drawing thunderous applause from the crowd.

Rohit’s heartfelt words resonated with fans, as India’s 11-year wait for an ICC trophy culminated in an emotional victory over South Africa in the final in Barbados. The triumph marked a significant milestone in Rohit’s career, fulfilling a long-held dream.

Over the years, Rohit had endured several heart-wrenching defeats, including the semi-final loss to England in the 2022 T20 World Cup and the ODI World Cup final loss to Australia in 2023. However, his unwavering determination and persistence paid off in 2024 when he led India to the coveted title.

Beyond the team’s success, Rohit also achieved personal milestones during the tournament. He became the first player to hit 200 sixes in T20 Internationals, a record set during a high-pressure Super 8 match against Australia in St. Lucia. This achievement cemented his legacy as one of the greatest T20 players of all time.

Following India’s victory, Rohit made an emotional announcement, declaring the final his last T20I match. “No better time to say goodbye to this format,” he said, marking the occasion with his 50th win as Indian T20 captain.

Rohit’s remarks have sparked a wave of excitement among fans, who are eager to witness his continued success in other formats of the game. His leadership and determination have inspired a new generation of cricketers and cemented his place as one of the most iconic figures in Indian cricket history.

Babar Azam Resigns as Pakistan White-Ball Captain After Critical Report

Babar Azam Resigns as Pakistan White-Ball Captain After Critical Report

Babar Azam Relinquishes White-Ball Captaincy Amidst Critical Report and Lack of Support

Pakistan’s star batter Babar Azam has stepped down as captain of the national white-ball teams following a critical report submitted by head coach Gary Kirsten and a perceived lack of support from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

Sources within the PCB and close to the team revealed that Azam had lost his enthusiasm for the captaincy after the team’s disappointing performance at the T20 World Cup in July. Kirsten’s report, which was partially leaked to the public, reportedly criticized Azam’s leadership and blamed him for the team’s failures.

Azam expressed dissatisfaction with the report and felt that he was being unfairly singled out. He conveyed to the PCB that he was no longer interested in continuing as captain.

The situation was further exacerbated when the PCB announced Azam as captain of the T20 team but not the ODI squad ahead of the World Cup. This decision was seen as a lack of confidence in Azam’s abilities.

Kirsten’s report also raised concerns about the dressing room environment and the behavior of some players. He questioned whether Azam was equipped to handle the pressures of captaincy and suggested that he should focus on his role as a specialist batter.

The PCB is currently deliberating on who will replace Azam as white-ball captain. Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has instructed the selection committee to carefully consider all options and provide a detailed rationale for their decision.

MS Dhoni Unlikely to Seek Top Retention for CSK, Says Ajay Jadeja

MS Dhoni Unlikely to Seek Top Retention for CSK, Says Ajay Jadeja

MS Dhoni’s Future with CSK: Jadeja Believes Icon Unlikely to Seek Top Retention

Former India all-rounder Ajay Jadeja has expressed his belief that Chennai Super Kings (CSK) icon MS Dhoni has no desire to be retained as the top pick ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) mega auction.

The IPL governing council recently announced new player retention rules, allowing teams to retain up to six players, including one uncapped player. This has raised speculation about Dhoni’s future with CSK, given his status as an uncapped player.

However, Jadeja believes that CSK should have no hesitation in retaining Dhoni, citing his immense contributions to the franchise. “MS Dhoni for sure. There’s no doubt about that, especially because he’s now an uncapped player. He’s done a lot for the team and has no desire to be treated as the No. 1 player on the squad. His value is unquestioned,” Jadeja said on Jio Cinema.

Jadeja also suggested that CSK should prioritize retaining captain Ruturaj Gaikwad and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. “Ruturaj Gaikwad is the captain, and he’s had a good year, so you’ll hope to retain him as well. Ravindra Jadeja can’t be left out either, so these three, I think, are perfect for them,” he added.

Former India batter Aakash Chopra echoed Jadeja’s sentiments, emphasizing the importance of retaining Gaikwad and Jadeja. “I don’t think they’ll (CSK) retain five players. They might go for 3-4. I see two players worth 18 crore in Ruturaj Gaikwad and Ravindra Jadeja. If you want to keep them, you have to match that price,” Chopra said.

With the IPL mega auction approaching, CSK faces a crucial decision regarding Dhoni’s future. While the franchise has remained tight-lipped, Jadeja’s comments suggest that Dhoni may be willing to take a backseat and allow younger players to lead the team.

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