Hardik Singh Inspired by Hardik Pandya's Clutch Performances

Hardik Singh Inspired by Hardik Pandya’s Clutch Performances

Hardik Singh Draws Inspiration from Cricket Star Hardik Pandya’s Clutch Performances

Indian hockey vice-captain Hardik Singh has revealed that star cricket all-rounder Hardik Pandya has been a source of inspiration for him due to his ability to deliver exceptional performances in crucial moments.

Hardik Singh, who played a pivotal role in India’s historic bronze medal triumph at the Paris Olympics, praised Pandya’s spectacular performances on the field. “I think Hardik Pandya is doing a really good job for the last 4-5 years. He is doing great,” Singh said.

Singh noted that Pandya’s ability to stand up in important matches and play a decisive role is particularly inspiring. “I try to be myself, but I take inspiration from him as he stands up in important matches and plays a really important role,” he added.

Pandya’s impact was evident in the T20 World Cup earlier this year, where he delivered a match-winning performance in the final against South Africa. He took crucial wickets and bowled a tight final over to defend 16 runs, helping India secure the title.

Singh also acknowledged the uncanny success that the name “Hardik” has enjoyed across different sports fields this year. “Hardik naam hi achha hai,” he said with a smile.

Both Hardik Singh and Hardik Pandya have been instrumental in their respective teams’ achievements. Singh’s influential performances helped India claim back-to-back bronze medals at the Olympics, while Pandya’s all-round brilliance has made him one of the top T20I all-rounders in the world.

MS Dhoni and Suresh Raina Announce Retirement from International Cricket

MS Dhoni and Suresh Raina Announce Retirement from International Cricket

On August 15, 2020, former Indian cricket captain MS Dhoni announced his retirement from international cricket in a characteristically unexpected manner. A post on his Instagram account, accompanied by images from his illustrious career, simply stated, “Thanks – Thanks a lot for ur love and support throughout.from 1929 hrs consider me as Retired.”

Dhoni’s retirement marked the end of an era for Indian cricket. Having already retired from Test cricket in 2014, he chose to step away from international cricket altogether while continuing to play for Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Dhoni’s legacy as a captain is unparalleled. He led India to victory in all three major ICC tournaments: the 2007 T20 World Cup, the 2011 ODI World Cup, and the 2013 Champions Trophy. He also held the Test mace for a period of time.

Throughout his career, Dhoni played 90 Tests, 350 ODIs, and 98 T20Is, amassing 4876, 10773, and 1617 runs respectively. His tally of runs in international cricket included 16 centuries, and he made significant contributions as a wicketkeeper.

Just minutes after Dhoni’s announcement, his close friend and India teammate Suresh Raina followed suit, retiring from international cricket as well. Raina had been a key member of Dhoni-led teams that won the ODI World Cup and the Champions Trophy.

Dhoni’s retirement leaves a void in Indian cricket, but his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of players. His calm demeanor, strategic brilliance, and unwavering determination have made him one of the most respected and successful captains in the history of the game.

Southern Brave's Title Defense Ends in Disappointment

Southern Brave’s Title Defense Ends in Disappointment

Southern Brave’s title defense in the Women’s Hundred has come to an end, leaving head coach Charlotte Edwards to reflect on a disappointing campaign. Despite a promising start, Brave struggled to maintain consistency, losing six of their eight matches.

The season began with a narrow defeat to London Spirit, followed by a tie with Northern Superchargers. A solitary win against Oval Invincibles provided a glimmer of hope, but Brave’s fortunes took a turn for the worse with a heavy loss to Welsh Fire in their final match.

Edwards acknowledged the team’s inconsistent performances, stating that they failed to put together a complete game. She highlighted the growing strength and depth of teams in the Hundred, emphasizing the need for Brave to improve in all aspects.

While the disappointment of the failed title defense is still fresh, Edwards plans to conduct a thorough analysis of the season’s shortcomings. She believes that a full review will help identify areas for improvement and guide the team’s preparations for the 2025 edition of the tournament.

Edwards also expressed her desire to continue as coach of Southern Brave and Mumbai Indians, despite the latter’s unsuccessful WPL campaign. She emphasized the importance of franchise leagues in the growth of women’s cricket and called for exclusive windows to avoid clashes with bilateral series.

Edwards’ comments align with those of Jhulan Goswami, her Mumbai Indians bowling coach, who has advocated for protected windows for franchise leagues. Edwards believes that three exclusive windows for the WPL, Hundred, and WBBL would allow the best players to participate in both international and franchise cricket without scheduling conflicts.

Morne Morkel Appointed as India's New Bowling Coach

Morne Morkel Appointed as India’s New Bowling Coach

Former South African pace legend Morne Morkel has been appointed as the new bowling coach of the Indian cricket team, completing the support staff for newly appointed head coach Gautam Gambhir. Morkel, 39, replaces Paras Mhambrey and will take over from the Bangladesh series starting on September 19. He has been appointed until the end of the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa.

Morkel was Gambhir’s preferred choice, having worked with him at Lucknow Super Giants during the Indian’s two IPL seasons as mentor of the franchise. The South African has played 86 Tests, 117 ODIs, and 44 T20Is for his country, taking a total of 544 international wickets.

Morkel’s appointment is seen as a significant move, given his experience and success as a fast bowler. He will be tasked with handling the transition phase as Mohammed Shami enters the latter stages of his career and Jasprit Bumrah needs more potent support, especially in red-ball cricket.

Morkel’s biggest challenge will be to nurture the next generation of Indian fast bowlers, including Mayank Yadav, Avesh Khan, and Yash Thakur. He is expected to work closely with VVS Laxman and Troy Cooley at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru.

The other members of Gambhir’s support staff include assistant coach Abhishek Nayar and fielding coach Ryan Ten Doeschate. India has never had a dedicated spin bowling coach, but Sairaj Bahutule, who is part of Laxman’s team at the NCA, has traveled with the senior team on occasion.

Tim Paine Appointed Adelaide Strikers BBL Head Coach

Tim Paine Appointed Adelaide Strikers BBL Head Coach

Former Australian Test captain Tim Paine has embarked on a new chapter in his cricketing career, taking the reins as head coach of the Adelaide Strikers in the Big Bash League (BBL). Paine’s appointment comes less than two years after he retired from professional cricket.

Paine’s coaching journey has been swift. After serving as Jason Gillespie’s assistant with the Strikers last season, he has now taken over the top job following Gillespie’s departure. The South Australian Cricket Association (SACA) has opted to separate the state and BBL coaching roles, with Ryan Harris recently appointed as South Australia’s head coach.

Paine has gained valuable coaching experience in recent times. He is currently guiding the NT Strike in the Top End T20 series, and has previously assisted Adam Voges with Australia A, worked with the Under-19 setup, and coached the women’s team.

“I am honored and excited by the opportunity to coach such a well-established and strongly supported club,” Paine said. “I believe the Strikers team and the whole of South Australian cricket has huge potential, and I’m looking forward to being part of taking it forward and winning a few trophies.”

Last season, the Strikers surged into the finals with four consecutive victories, defeating the defending champions Perth Scorchers in the Knockout before bowing out to the eventual winners Brisbane Heat in the Challenger.

Paine’s international career came to an abrupt end when he resigned as Test captain on the eve of the 2021-22 Ashes series. His first major task as Strikers coach will be overseeing the BBL draft alongside captain Matt Short on September 1. The club has yet to announce any pre-draft signings and will have picks 5, 11, 20, and 29.

Rashid Khan, a long-time Strikers player, was expected to return last season but was ruled out due to injury. He will be part of MI Cape Town in the SA20, which overlaps with the BBL in January. It remains to be seen whether he will nominate for the Strikers this year.

The Strikers will be bolstered by the availability of Chris Lynn for the entire tournament after he signed a new one-year deal. Lynn had previously left the BBL early to play in the ILT20.

Conway, Allen Decline Central Contracts, Conway Signs Casual Agreement

Conway, Allen Decline Central Contracts, Conway Signs Casual Agreement

Devon Conway and Finn Allen have become the latest New Zealand cricketers to decline central contracts, opting instead for greater flexibility and opportunities in franchise cricket. Conway, however, has signed a casual agreement with New Zealand Cricket (NZC), similar to Kane Williamson, making him available for all internationals except for the Sri Lanka white-ball matches in January, when he will honor his SA20 commitment.

Allen, the hard-hitting white-ball opener, will pursue franchise opportunities and has not been offered the same agreement by NZC. He remains eligible for selection on a case-by-case basis. Both Conway and Allen were initially included in the contract list last month but will now be replaced.

Conway, who has been named in the Test squad to face Afghanistan and Sri Lanka next month, is available for all of New Zealand’s nine upcoming Tests. He has also committed to warm-up matches ahead of the Champions Trophy in February, including an ODI tri-series in Pakistan.

“The decision to move away from a central playing contract isn’t one I’ve taken lightly, but I believe it is the best for me and my family at this present time,” Conway said. “Playing for the Blackcaps is still the pinnacle for me, and I’m hugely passionate about representing New Zealand and winning games of international cricket.”

NZC chief executive Scott Weenink emphasized that casual contracts are only an option for a select number of leading players. He believes it is a prudent way to manage the evolving landscape of franchise cricket.

“We’re delighted with Devon’s decision to commit to the Blackcaps – he’s a quality player who’s made a strong contribution to the team over the past few years,” Weenink said. “In the current environment, it’s important to have flexibility in our system to navigate some of the challenges posed by franchise cricket.”

Conway and Allen join Williamson, Trent Boult, Lockie Ferguson, and Adam Milne in moving away from central contracts. However, Williamson, who will also play in the SA20 in January, has not ruled out taking one in the future.

Under the NZC system, players must make themselves available for the domestic Super Smash tournament when they are not playing international cricket to be eligible for central contracts.

Jhye Richardson Returns to Old Run-Up, Aims to Overcome Injury Woes

Jhye Richardson Returns to Old Run-Up, Aims to Overcome Injury Woes

Jhye Richardson, the Australian fast bowler, has returned to the run-up that brought him success in Test cricket, hoping to put his injury woes behind him. Richardson has been plagued by hamstring injuries since his Test debut in 2019, suffering four setbacks since June 2022.

Despite his injury struggles, Richardson has been retained on the national contract list, and selectors see him as a potential leader of the Test attack in the future. With the current frontline quicks all over 30, Richardson’s fitness is crucial for Australia’s long-term plans.

Richardson has made a successful return to competitive cricket in the Top End T20 series in Darwin, playing for the Perth Scorchers. He has reverted to his traditional run-up, which sees him sprinting in at speeds of close to 22.5kph from earlier in his run-up.

“I’ve played two games [in Darwin], the body has been good,” Richardson said. “It’s obviously a different intensity playing competitive cricket again.”

Richardson believes that his previous run-up, which involved reaching top speed closer to the crease, may have contributed to his hamstring injuries. He is now focused on building resilience and avoiding problem areas.

“I’m trying to avoid problem areas and build that resilience that I haven’t had in the past couple of years,” Richardson said. “I have put a lot of work into my hamstring, so everyone is comfortable with the fact I can go back to what has worked previously.”

Richardson’s return to fitness is a significant boost for Australia, who are facing a transition in their Test team. With all three frontline quicks over 30, Richardson is the most credentialed man to one day lead the attack.

“I think [it is important to be fit then], but we are looking pretty far into the future there,” he said. “Taking it one step at a time, getting the body right and making sure everything is right on my end, and not worrying about what is happening externally.”

Venkatesh Iyer Shines in Lancashire Debut, Leads Team to Victory

Venkatesh Iyer Shines in Lancashire Debut, Leads Team to Victory

Venkatesh Iyer, the Indian all-rounder, is making waves in England’s domestic cricket scene as he represents Lancashire in the One-Day Cup. This stint marks Iyer’s maiden experience in English county cricket, providing him with an invaluable opportunity to hone his skills in diverse playing conditions.

In Lancashire’s match against Worcestershire at Old Trafford, Iyer showcased his batting prowess, scoring 25 runs. However, it was his bowling performance that stole the show. With Worcestershire needing just 4 runs off the last 8 balls, Iyer stepped up to the challenge.

Despite conceding boundaries on his first two deliveries, Iyer remained composed. He then dismissed Tom Hinley and Harry Darley in consecutive balls, turning the tide of the match. Worcestershire was eventually bowled out for 234, handing Lancashire a thrilling 3-run victory.

Iyer’s performance highlights the benefits of playing in county cricket for subcontinent cricketers. The challenging conditions in England, including seaming pitches and overcast weather, provide a unique test for players. For Iyer, this experience will be crucial in refining his game, particularly against the moving ball.

During his time with Lancashire, Iyer will have the privilege of playing alongside and against some of England’s finest cricketers. This exposure will enhance his cricketing knowledge and adaptability, making him a more well-rounded player.

Iyer’s stint in county cricket is expected to contribute significantly to his growth as an all-rounder. His performances will not only benefit Lancashire but also the Kolkata Knight Riders, his Indian Premier League franchise, and the Indian national team.

Rockets Soar Past Invincibles with Powell's Pyrotechnics

Rockets Soar Past Invincibles with Powell’s Pyrotechnics

Trent Rockets’ Rovman Powell propelled his team to a thrilling six-wicket victory over Oval Invincibles at Trent Bridge, keeping their hopes of reaching the Hundred final alive.

The Invincibles, who had been on the cusp of securing a spot in Sunday’s final at Lord’s, were denied by Powell’s explosive hitting. Despite their loss, they remain favorites to advance directly to the final as group winners. However, Birmingham Phoenix could overtake them on net run-rate with a substantial victory over Manchester Originals on Thursday.

Invincibles captain Sam Billings acknowledged the Rockets’ strength, stating that their season could have been different. He emphasized the importance of adapting to different conditions, as the Oval played differently from Lord’s.

Powell joined Tom Alsop at the crease with the Rockets needing 95 runs from 52 balls and three wickets down. The duo formed an 80-run partnership in just 32 balls, propelling the Rockets towards the Invincibles’ total of 150.

Powell’s pyrotechnics included four sixes, one of which traveled 101 meters off Sam Curran’s bowling. However, Curran eventually induced Powell to miscue a lofted drive to long-on.

Despite Powell’s dismissal, Alsop and Chris Green guided the Rockets to victory with six balls to spare.

The Invincibles had earlier posted a competitive 150 for 3, thanks to Dawid Malan’s composed half-century and contributions from Will Jacks and Jordan Cox.

Saqib Mahmood bowled with pace and hostility for the Rockets, accounting for Tom Banton. Alex Hales and Joe Root provided a recovery, but their dismissals gave the Invincibles hope.

However, Powell and Alsop’s heroics ensured that the Rockets kept their playoff hopes alive.

Ireland to Build Permanent Cricket Stadium and High Performance Centre

Ireland to Build Permanent Cricket Stadium and High Performance Centre

The Irish government has approved the construction of a permanent international cricket stadium and High Performance Centre at the National Sports Campus in Dublin. This ambitious project is a significant step towards Ireland’s goal of hosting the 2030 T20 World Cup alongside England and Scotland.

Currently, Ireland lacks a permanent home stadium, relying on club cricket grounds with temporary seating. This has hindered the country’s ability to host major international matches, including the recent postponement of a bilateral series against Australia.

The new stadium will address this issue, providing a dedicated venue for Ireland’s national cricket team. The first phase of the project will include a main cricket oval with a permanent seating capacity of 4000, a high-performance center, and facilities for players and officials. Completion is scheduled for 2028.

The proposed facilities will include both indoor and outdoor practice and training areas, enhancing the development of Ireland’s cricketers. The stadium will also increase the number of pitches available, allowing Ireland to host more international and domestic matches.

Warren Deutrom, CEO of Cricket Ireland, hailed the announcement as a “huge tribute” to the sport’s growth in Ireland. He believes the new facilities will “drive the sport forward” and assist Ireland’s players in achieving success on the world stage.

The stadium will not only benefit the national team but also provide opportunities for women’s cricket, youth development, and provincial competitions. It is expected to become a hub for cricket in Ireland, fostering the sport’s growth and popularity.

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