Pakistan-Bangladesh Test in Karachi to be Played Without Spectators

Pakistan-Bangladesh Test in Karachi to be Played Without Spectators

The second Test between Pakistan and Bangladesh, scheduled for August 30 to September 3 in Karachi, will be played behind closed doors due to ongoing construction work at the National Stadium. The decision was made as part of the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) stadium renovation project ahead of the 2025 Champions Trophy.

The Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore is also undergoing similar upgrades in preparation for Pakistan’s first ICC tournament since 1996. The PCB opted to keep the Test in Karachi to distribute its home matches across three venues: Karachi, Multan, and Rawalpindi. Multan will host Pakistan’s first Test against England from October 7.

The England Test scheduled in Karachi from October 15 is expected to have spectators in attendance. The PCB has suspended ticket sales for the first Test against Bangladesh with immediate effect, citing the health and safety of fans as its top priority.

“We deeply regret any inconvenience this may cause, but we want to assure our valued fans that the ongoing stadium upgrades are aimed at enhancing their experience,” the PCB said in a statement.

The Bangladesh squad arrived in Lahore four days ahead of schedule to begin training after their preparations were disrupted by political unrest in Bangladesh. The team will train at Gaddafi Stadium before traveling to Rawalpindi for the first Test, which begins on August 21.

Bangladesh’s previous bilateral tour of Pakistan in 2020 was cut short due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The upcoming series marks their first full tour of Pakistan since 2003.

Dodda Ganesh Appointed Head Coach of Kenya's Men's Cricket Team

Dodda Ganesh Appointed Head Coach of Kenya’s Men’s Cricket Team

Former Indian all-rounder Dodda Ganesh has been entrusted with the responsibility of reviving the fortunes of Kenyan cricket. The 51-year-old has been appointed as the head coach of Kenya’s men’s cricket team, with the primary objective of guiding them through the Africa Qualifiers for the 2026 T20 World Cup.

Ganesh, who represented India in four Tests and an ODI, brings a wealth of experience to the role. Despite limited success at the international level, he enjoyed a successful first-class career with Karnataka, amassing over 2000 runs and claiming 365 wickets.

Kenya’s cricket team has experienced a decline in recent years, failing to qualify for the T20 World Cup since 2007. Ganesh’s appointment marks a significant step in their efforts to regain their former glory. The team will face Papua New Guinea, Qatar, Denmark, and Jersey in the ICC Division 2 Challenge League in September, followed by the T20 World Cup Africa Qualifiers in October.

The 2026 T20 World Cup will be jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka, providing Kenya with an opportunity to showcase their resurgence on the global stage. Ganesh expressed his excitement about the new role, stating, “Privileged to be named the head coach of the Kenya cricket team.”

Ganesh will be supported by former Kenyan internationals Lameck Onyango and Joseph Angara, who will serve as his deputies. The trio will work together to develop a competitive team capable of challenging for a place in the 2026 T20 World Cup.

Indian Cricket Team to Rest Jasprit Bumrah for Bangladesh Series

Indian Cricket Team to Rest Jasprit Bumrah for Bangladesh Series

After a well-deserved break following the Sri Lanka series, the Indian cricket team will reconvene next month for a two-Test series against Bangladesh. This extended break is a rarity for Indian cricketers, providing much-needed respite after a grueling schedule.

However, according to reports, India’s premier fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah may be rested for the Bangladesh series. The decision stems from the team’s hectic upcoming schedule and the spin-friendly conditions expected in Bangladesh. With Mohammed Shami likely to make a comeback, the BCCI selectors may opt to give Bumrah additional rest.

Bumrah has a history of injury-related breaks, including a stress fracture surgery in March 2023. To ensure his fitness for the upcoming tour of Australia, the selectors may prioritize his recovery.

Meanwhile, the BCCI has shifted one of the opening matches of the Duleep Trophy from Anantapur to Bengaluru to accommodate top players who are likely to feature in the Bangladesh series. Senior batters Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma may be exempted from the tournament, while others like Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, and KL Rahul are expected to participate partially or fully.

The Duleep Trophy, scheduled to begin on September 5, will provide an opportunity for players to prepare for the Bangladesh series. The two Tests will be played in Chennai (September 19) and Kanpur (September 27).

Katie Mack's Century Leads Australia A to Four-Wicket Victory Over India A

Katie Mack’s Century Leads Australia A to Four-Wicket Victory Over India A

Australia A emerged victorious in the first one-day match against India A in Mackay, securing a four-wicket triumph thanks to a superb century from Katie Mack.

Mack’s masterful 129 off 106 deliveries anchored Australia A’s chase, guiding them to a comfortable victory despite a late flurry of wickets. She forged crucial partnerships with Maddy Darke (50), Charli Knott (65), and Tahlia McGrath (56), who continued her impressive form from the T20 series.

India A, batting first, faced early setbacks as Nicola Hancock dismissed Shweta Sehrawat and Priya Punia cheaply. Raghvi Bist played a pivotal role in rebuilding the innings, anchoring three consecutive partnerships of 55, 52, and 68. However, Grace Parsons’ sharp leg-break removed Tejal Hasabnis for 53, and Maitlan Brown’s late heroics, including three wickets in the final over, restricted India A to 249 for 9.

Mack’s century, coupled with McGrath’s half-century, ensured Australia A never faced significant pressure during their chase. They reached the target with five balls to spare, despite losing wickets in quick succession towards the end.

The victory extends Australia A’s dominance over India A, having swept the T20 series 3-0. The two teams will face off in two more one-day matches in Mackay before a four-day match on the Gold Coast next week.

Sachin Tendulkar's Maiden International Century: A Legacy Unmatched

Sachin Tendulkar’s Maiden International Century: A Legacy Unmatched

Sachin Tendulkar’s Maiden International Century: A Defining Moment in Cricket History

On August 14, 1990, at the iconic Old Trafford Cricket Ground in Manchester, a young Sachin Tendulkar etched his name into the annals of cricket history by scoring his maiden international century. This remarkable achievement marked the beginning of an illustrious career that would redefine the sport.

At just 17 years of age, Tendulkar faced a daunting task. India, trailing in the second Test against England, needed to bat out the final day to avoid defeat. With the pressure mounting, Tendulkar stepped up to the plate and delivered an unforgettable performance.

His unbeaten 119 was a testament to his composure, technique, and maturity beyond his years. Tendulkar’s innings was a masterclass in batting, showcasing his ability to play shots all around the wicket with ease. He dominated the English bowlers, hitting 16 fours and 2 sixes.

This century was not just a personal milestone for Tendulkar but also a turning point for Indian cricket. It signaled the arrival of a generational talent who would go on to become one of the greatest batsmen of all time.

Tendulkar’s maiden century was the first of his 51 Test centuries, a record that remains unmatched. He also holds the record for the most runs in international cricket, with over 34,000 runs across Tests, ODIs, and T20Is.

Beyond his statistical achievements, Tendulkar’s impact on cricket is immeasurable. He is celebrated for his humility, sportsmanship, and the inspiration he provided to countless cricketers around the world. His technique, consistency, and adaptability made him a role model for aspiring cricketers.

Tendulkar’s retirement from international cricket in 2013 marked the end of an era. However, his legacy continues to inspire and motivate cricketers and fans alike. His maiden international century remains a defining moment in cricket history, a testament to the brilliance and determination of one of the greatest players to ever grace the game.

Franchise Cricket: The Future of Women's Cricket, Says Jhulan Goswami

Franchise Cricket: The Future of Women’s Cricket, Says Jhulan Goswami

The rise of franchise cricket has sparked a debate in women’s cricket, with former India fast bowler Jhulan Goswami advocating for its prioritization over bilateral series. Goswami, who has been involved in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) and Women’s CPL, believes that franchise cricket is crucial for the growth of the sport.

Goswami highlights the success of franchise leagues like the WBBL and Hundred in producing quality cricketers. She argues that giving priority to these leagues will ensure the availability of top players, leading to more competitive and successful tournaments.

The calendar clash between franchise leagues and bilateral series has become a concern, with players facing difficult choices. Goswami suggests that the ICC should prioritize franchise league windows to avoid losing out on quality cricketers. She believes that bilateral series should be scheduled after these windows to ensure the growth of women’s cricket.

Goswami’s views are supported by the busy calendar for the rest of 2024. The women’s Hundred, WCPL, T20 World Cup, and WBBL are all scheduled within a short period, followed by international matches and home seasons for various teams.

The prioritization of franchise cricket is seen as a way to address the limited pool of quality cricketers in women’s cricket. By giving priority to these leagues, the ICC can ensure that the best players are available for the most competitive tournaments, which will ultimately benefit the growth and development of the sport.

Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer to Grace Buchi Babu Invitational Tournament

Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer to Grace Buchi Babu Invitational Tournament

Suryakumar Yadav and Shreyas Iyer to Feature in Buchi Babu Invitational Tournament

Indian Twenty20 International captain Suryakumar Yadav and star batter Shreyas Iyer are set to participate in the prestigious Buchi Babu Invitational Tournament, which will commence on August 27 in Coimbatore. The tournament will provide an ideal platform for the duo to hone their skills ahead of the upcoming international season.

Suryakumar, who recently led India to a 3-0 series victory over Sri Lanka, has confirmed his participation in the tournament. The flamboyant batter is currently enjoying a brief vacation with his wife, Devisha Shetty. On Wednesday, he shared a photo on Instagram, expressing his eagerness to return to the field.

Shreyas Iyer, who has been in impressive form in recent times, will also be available for the match against Jammu and Kashmir. The BCCI has encouraged Indian internationals to participate in domestic matches to maintain their peak fitness and form.

The Buchi Babu Tournament is a highly regarded event in the Indian domestic cricket calendar. It will offer Suryakumar and Iyer an opportunity to showcase their abilities and prepare for the challenges ahead.

Mumbai, led by Sarfaraz Khan, will be bolstered by the presence of Suryakumar and Iyer. The team’s batting lineup is expected to be formidable, increasing their chances of making a significant impact in the tournament.

Suryakumar, despite his success in the shorter formats, has expressed his desire to make a mark in Test cricket. The Buchi Babu Tournament will provide him with a valuable opportunity to fine-tune his skills and gain experience in the longer format.

The participation of Suryakumar Yadav and Shreyas Iyer in the Buchi Babu Invitational Tournament is a testament to the importance of domestic cricket in India. The tournament will serve as a crucial stepping stone for the duo as they prepare for the upcoming international season.

Sachin Tendulkar: The Ambidextrous Maestro of Cricket

Sachin Tendulkar: The Ambidextrous Maestro of Cricket

Sachin Tendulkar: A Unique Ambidextrous Skill in Cricket

Sachin Tendulkar, the legendary Indian cricketer, is renowned for his exceptional batting prowess. While primarily a right-handed batsman, Tendulkar possesses a unique ambidextrous skill that sets him apart from most players.

Although not ambidextrous in the traditional sense of using both hands equally well for all tasks, Tendulkar exhibits a remarkable ability to bat left-handed for recreational purposes. This skill has often given the impression of ambidexterity, adding to his legendary status.

Beyond batting, Tendulkar also utilized his left hand effectively in bowling. During practice sessions, he occasionally bowled left-arm orthodox spin, demonstrating his versatility. However, his professional bowling was primarily right-handed, either as a medium-pacer or right-arm leg-spinner.

Tendulkar’s ambidextrous skill extends to everyday tasks. He has stated that while his right hand handles wooden sticks, his left hand performs all writing and eating activities.

On International Left-Handers Day, Tendulkar celebrated his unique ability by posting a video on social media. In the video, he showcased his left-handed batting skills, playing delightful shots with precision and timing. He also bowled left-handed, creating a surreal illusion of playing against himself.

Throughout his illustrious career, Tendulkar had the privilege of playing alongside some of the greatest left-handed batters and bowlers in cricket history. These included Vinod Kambli, Sourav Ganguly, Yuvraj Singh, Kumar Sangakkara, Brian Lara, Michael Hussey, Sanath Jayasuriya, Chris Gayle, Adam Gilchrist, Chaminda Vaas, Wasim Akram, Daniel Vettori, and Mitchell Johnson.

Tendulkar’s ambidextrous skill, combined with his exceptional batting abilities, has cemented his place as one of the greatest cricketers of all time. His unique talent continues to inspire and amaze fans worldwide.

Santner's Sensational Catch Wins Match for Northern Superchargers

Santner’s Sensational Catch Wins Match for Northern Superchargers

Catches Win Matches: Mitchell Santner’s Stunning Grab for Northern Superchargers

The adage “catches win matches” has been proven true countless times in the annals of cricket history. A spectacular catch can turn the tide of a game, and such was the case in the recent match between Northern Superchargers and London Spirit in The Hundred at Headingley, Leeds.

London Spirit, batting first, saw their innings opened by Michael Pepper and Keaton Jennings. In the 11th over, Pepper attempted to loft a delivery from Reece Topley over mid-on. Mitchell Santner, fielding at that position, gave chase.

With his eyes fixed on the swirling ball, Santner charged back from mid-on and executed a breathtaking catch with a dive at deep mid-on. Pepper was dismissed for 3, leaving London Spirit reeling at 111/8 after their 100 balls.

Santner’s catch was a testament to his exceptional fielding skills and quick reflexes. It not only removed a dangerous batsman but also boosted the morale of the Northern Superchargers team.

The catch was widely praised on social media, with many fans hailing it as one of the best catches of the tournament. The official Twitter handle of The Hundred shared a video of the catch, which quickly went viral.

Northern Superchargers went on to win the match by 21 runs (DLS Method), thanks in no small part to Santner’s stunning catch. It was a reminder that even in the fast-paced world of modern cricket, the art of fielding remains paramount.

Gaby Lewis Century Powers Ireland to Thrilling T20I Win Over Sri Lanka

Gaby Lewis Century Powers Ireland to Thrilling T20I Win Over Sri Lanka

Ireland’s Gaby Lewis and Orla Prendergast starred in a thrilling seven-run victory over Sri Lanka in the second T20I in Dublin, leveling the two-match series 1-1.

Lewis, who had scored a century in the first T20I, continued her impressive form with a smashing 119 off 75 balls. She found an able ally in Prendergast, who contributed 38 off 31 balls. The duo shared a 119-run partnership for the second wicket, laying the foundation for Ireland’s competitive total of 173 for 3.

Lewis reached her fifty off 40 balls and accelerated her scoring rate thereafter. She struck 17 fours and two sixes in her innings, including three fours in the final over. Prendergast provided valuable support, hitting back-to-back fours in the 12th over and keeping the scoreboard ticking.

Sri Lanka’s chase got off to a shaky start with the early loss of Vishmi Gunaratne. However, Harshitha Samarawickrama threatened to repeat her heroics from the first T20I, striking two fours in the first over and a six off Jane Maguire.

Samarawickrama and Kavisha Dilhari put on a 72-run partnership for the fourth wicket, keeping Sri Lanka in the hunt. But Maguire’s dismissal of Samarawickrama for 65 off 44 balls proved to be a turning point.

Dilhari continued to find the boundaries, but Sri Lanka lost wickets at the other end. They needed 22 off the last two overs and 16 off six. Dilhari struck a six in the final over to reach her fifty, but with eight needed off two, she failed to connect cleanly, allowing Ireland to level the series.

Home
Shop
Wishlist0
Back to Top

Search For Products

Product has been added to your cart