Cricket Archives

Wriddhiman Saha Returns to West Bengal Cricket Team After Two-Year Stint with Tripura

By Nilay August 13, 2024 0

Wriddhiman Saha, the veteran Indian wicketkeeper-batter, has made a triumphant return to the West Bengal cricket team after a two-year stint with Tripura. Saha, who originally played for Bengal from 2007 to 2022, rejoined the team with aspirations of leading them to victory in major domestic tournaments.

Saha’s departure from Bengal in 2022 was prompted by a public fallout with a Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) official, who accused him of fabricating excuses to skip Ranji Trophy matches. This dispute led Saha to obtain a no-objection certificate (NOC) to play for Tripura.

“After playing for almost 15 years with the West Bengal cricket team, I played for the Tripura cricket team for two years. Now I have returned to play for the West Bengal cricket team… As a wicket-keeper batsman, I will try my best to help the team win major tournaments,” Saha told ANI.

Saha’s return to Bengal is seen as a significant boost to the team’s prospects in the upcoming domestic season. His experience and leadership will be invaluable assets to the team, which is aiming to win its first Ranji Trophy title since 1990.

CAB president Snehasish Ganguly welcomed Saha’s return, praising his impressive record of 40 Tests for India. “When Saha is there, he always gives his 200 percent. We are very focused on domestic cricket. We have a very good side this time,” Ganguly said.

Saha last played for India in 2021, scoring 1,353 runs in 40 Tests, which includes three centuries and six fifties. He has also represented India in five ODIs.

Saha’s return to Bengal is a testament to his unwavering commitment to the game and his desire to contribute to the success of his home state. His experience and leadership will be crucial as Bengal looks to challenge for domestic supremacy in the upcoming season.

Categories: Cricket

Labuschagne Retires World Cup-Winning Bat, Stirring Indian Memories

By Nilay August 13, 2024 0

Marnus Labuschagne, the prolific Australian batter, has bid farewell to a cherished piece of cricket memorabilia: the bat he wielded in Australia’s triumphant 2023 World Cup final against India. The retirement of this bat, now bearing the scars of battle, has stirred memories for both Australian and Indian fans.

In the pulsating final, Labuschagne played a pivotal role, anchoring Australia’s chase of 241 with an unbeaten 58 off 110 deliveries. His resolute innings, alongside Travis Head’s blistering 137, steered Australia to their sixth World Cup title.

The bat, a Kookaburra, has witnessed countless hours of practice and competition. Its willow, once pristine, now bears the marks of countless deliveries faced. The middle and bottom of the bat have been worn down, a testament to Labuschagne’s unwavering determination.

Labuschagne shared an image of the bat on social media, evoking a range of emotions from fans. Indian supporters expressed their dismay, recalling the pain inflicted by Labuschagne’s match-winning knock. “We hate that bat and that innings Marnus,” lamented one fan.

However, others acknowledged the sentimental value attached to such a significant piece of equipment. “Attachment is something like this,” remarked another fan. “The favorite bat cannot be easily left behind.”

Labuschagne’s performance in the 2023 World Cup was nothing short of remarkable. In 10 innings, he amassed 362 runs, showcasing his exceptional batting prowess. His retirement of the World Cup bat serves as a poignant reminder of the unforgettable moments he created on the grandest stage of cricket.

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Team GB Cricket Teams in the Works for 2028 Olympics

By Nilay August 13, 2024 0

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced the inclusion of cricket in the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, marking the sport’s return to the Olympics after a 128-year absence. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and Cricket Scotland have initiated discussions to field men’s and women’s Team GB cricket teams at the Games.

The ICC has proposed six-team T20 tournaments for both the women’s and men’s competitions, with each tournament expected to last around a week. Qualification details are yet to be confirmed, but the ICC’s T20I rankings will likely play a role.

If England qualifies, they will compete as Great Britain, in line with the rest of the Olympics. This opens up the possibility of Scottish players, such as Brandon McMullen or Sarah and Kathryn Bryce, representing Team GB.

The ECB and Cricket Scotland are collaborating on the proposed Team GB cricket teams. Cricket Scotland is eager to contribute players and staff, while the ECB will serve as the teams’ nominated governing body.

Andy Anson, the chief executive of the British Olympic Association, emphasized the importance of collaboration between the ECB and Cricket Scotland. He cited successful examples in other sports, such as golf, rugby, and women’s football, where the Four Nations have come together to nominate a single governing body.

The venue for the cricket events at the 2028 Olympics is yet to be confirmed. Los Angeles Knight Riders and Major League Cricket are planning to build a stadium in Great Park in Irvine, while the Oakland Coliseum is also a potential option.

West Indies’ potential involvement presents some complications, as cricket is organized on an all-Ireland basis. However, there is precedent from the 2022 Commonwealth Games, where Barbados represented West Indies in the women’s cricket event.

Involvement in the Olympics will add to an already busy 2028 summer for England’s men, which includes six Tests and white-ball tours from Australia and India.

Categories: Cricket

Trent Rockets Snatch Three-Wicket Win to Keep Hundred Hopes Alive

By Nilay August 12, 2024 0

Trent Rockets emerged victorious in a thrilling encounter against Birmingham Phoenix at Edgbaston, keeping their Hundred campaign alive. The Rockets, who entered the match tied on points with Northern Superchargers, secured a three-wicket win with just three balls remaining.

Birmingham Phoenix, without injured captain Sophie Devine, endured a shaky start, losing three wickets within the first 15 balls. Alexa Stonehouse dismissed Ellyse Perry, while Nat Sciver-Brunt accounted for Fran Wilson and Amy Jones. However, Sterre Kalis and Richa Ghosh steadied the innings with a record 95-run partnership for the fourth wicket. Kalis scored 47 off 44, while Ghosh contributed 41 off 36.

Sciver-Brunt, who finished with figures of 2 for 16, and Ashleigh Gardner, who took 2 for 17, played crucial roles in restricting Phoenix to 112 for 6.

In response, Trent Rockets lost early wickets, but Sciver-Brunt and Gardner put the visitors in control of the chase. However, a flurry of wickets between balls 70-80, including a run-out from Perry, made the task more challenging.

A debatable no-ball call reprieved Josie Groves, and Katie George joined Groves at the crease to guide the Rockets home.

“We probably got ahead of ourselves a bit earlier and gave ourselves a bit of relief towards the end,” said Sciver-Brunt. “It’s still all in our hands, if we beat the Oval Invincibles in our last game then we will be in that top three.”

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Keshav Maharaj’s Unwavering Passion Fuels South Africa’s Spin Prowess

By Nilay August 12, 2024 0

Keshav Maharaj, South Africa’s premier spinner, embodies the unwavering passion and dedication that drives his exceptional performances on the cricket field. His love for spin bowling knows no bounds, as he would gladly start a spell even in the dead of night.

In the recently concluded first Test against West Indies in Trinidad, Maharaj showcased his remarkable endurance by bowling 40 overs in the first innings, the second-longest spell by a bowler in men’s Test cricket since 2001. Despite the absence of a second specialist spinner in the South African XI, Maharaj embraced the challenge, having prepared diligently for such a workload during the preceding months of white-ball cricket.

Maharaj’s unwavering commitment to his craft extends beyond the physical demands of bowling. He meticulously maintains his workload, regardless of the format, ensuring that he is always ready for the rigors of Test cricket. His consistency and ability to bowl for extended periods are a testament to his dedication and unwavering desire to contribute to his team’s success.

On the docile pitch in Trinidad, Maharaj’s discipline proved crucial in South Africa’s 124-run first innings lead. However, the constant rainfall throughout the match hindered the wicket’s deterioration, making it more favorable for batting. Despite the challenging conditions, Maharaj remained optimistic, believing that the wicket would have become more spinner-friendly had the rain not interrupted play.

Despite opting for an XI with only Maharaj as a frontline spinner, South Africa’s decision proved to be sound. Aiden Markram’s exceptional performance as the fourth bowler created opportunities and sparked a West Indian collapse, setting the stage for South Africa to push for a win.

However, the match ultimately ended in a draw, leaving Maharaj and his teammates disappointed. South Africa’s limited schedule in the current World Test Championship cycle means that they must strive to win every remaining match to enhance their chances of reaching the final.

Maharaj remains undeterred, vowing to continue bowling his best ball and being a “wily old character” on the field. His unwavering passion and dedication serve as an inspiration to his teammates and a testament to the enduring spirit of Test cricket.

Categories: Cricket

Cricket Legends Join Forces for Charity Auction to Empower Underprivileged Communities

By Nilay August 12, 2024 0

Cricket Legends Unite for Charity Auction to Empower Underprivileged Communities

Indian cricket icons Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni, Rohit Sharma, and Rahul Dravid have joined forces to support a charity auction benefiting the Vipla Foundation, an organization dedicated to empowering underprivileged communities in India. The auction, organized by Indian wicket-keeper batter KL Rahul and his wife Athiya Shetty, is titled “Cricket for a Cause: To Benefit the Vipla Foundation.”

The auction features an array of iconic cricket memorabilia, including a signed cricket bat from IPL 2024 by MS Dhoni, signed cricket bats from the 2023 World Cup by Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul, and a signed Indian cricket team jersey by Virat Kohli from the 2019 World Cup. These items have starting bids ranging from Rs 50,000 to Rs 3,50,000.

The Vipla Foundation has been working tirelessly for 36 years to empower women and children. The organization has established a special school for the hearing impaired and intellectually disabled, equipped with modern facilities such as smart classrooms, speech therapy rooms, and play areas. The auction aims to further enhance these facilities to support underprivileged children of various backgrounds.

“This is not just an auction; it’s an opportunity for all of us to come together and make a difference,” said Mana Shetty, the trustee of the Vipla Foundation. “It’s heartwarming to see the cricketing legends come together for such a noble cause. Every item tells a story of passion, hard work, and triumph.”

In addition to the aforementioned items, the auction will also feature a signed bat by Rahul Dravid from India’s tour to England in 2011, signed India jerseys by R Ashwin and Jasprit Bumrah, signed Rajasthan Royals jerseys by Sanju Samson, Jos Buttler, and Yuzvendra Chahal, a signed Chennai Super Kings jersey by Ravindra Jadeja, and signed bats by Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant, and Marcus Stoinis.

The auction is a testament to the power of sports to inspire and unite people for a common cause. The proceeds from the auction will directly benefit the Vipla Foundation, enabling them to continue their vital work in empowering underprivileged communities in India.

Categories: Cricket

Wriddhiman Saha Returns to Bengal Cricket, Focuses on Present

By Nilay August 12, 2024 0

Wriddhiman Saha, the veteran wicketkeeper-batter, has expressed his desire to move past his past differences with the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) and contribute to the team’s success. Speaking at the Eden Gardens, Saha emphasized his focus on the present and his willingness to serve Bengal cricket in any capacity.

Saha, 39, parted ways with Bengal before the 2022-23 season following a dispute with CAB joint-secretary Debabrata Das. However, he has now indicated his readiness to reconcile and help the team achieve its goals. “I don’t think of the past or the future, but only stay in the present. And on that note, currently, all I am thinking about is about playing for Bengal. I have forgotten everything that happened in the past,” he said.

Saha also expressed his openness to coaching Bengal in the future. “I am open to help Bengal in any capacity possible. Since I am a cricketer, I would be better off helping Bengal in coaching instead of any administrative role,” he said.

CAB president Snehasish Ganguly welcomed Saha’s return, acknowledging his experience and value to the team. “Someone of Saha’s experience was necessary for Bengal to fill the gap left by Tiwary,” Ganguly said.

Saha’s return raises questions about the balance between grooming young wicketkeeper Abishek Porel and utilizing Saha’s experience. However, Saha assured that he would support Porel’s growth and ensure he doesn’t fall by the wayside. “Even before I left Bengal, I was grooming Abishek from the sidelines, and that will continue,” Saha said.

Saha also addressed concerns about the lack of Bengali cricketers in the Bengal team. He emphasized that merit should be the primary criteria for selection. “If you play well, you will get an opportunity, and that’s what has been happening in Bengal,” he said.

Despite a disappointing season last year, Saha remains optimistic about Bengal’s prospects. “I am sure the management will aim to give Abishek all the opportunities possible,” he said. “I can understand that some people may feel that the Bengal team should have more Bengalis, but I don’t feel that’s enough reason as talent and hard work should be the primary criteria.”

Categories: Cricket

Johnny Grave to Step Down as CWI CEO in 2024

By Nilay August 12, 2024 0

Johnny Grave, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Cricket West Indies (CWI), has announced his departure from the organization in October 2024. Grave, who has held the position since February 2017, will step down after overseeing a successful period for West Indies cricket.

During his tenure, Grave has played a pivotal role in hosting three World Cups in the West Indies: the 2018 Women’s T20 World Cup, the 2022 Under-19 World Cup, and the upcoming 2024 Men’s T20 World Cup co-hosted with the USA. He also served as the T20 World Cup CEO for the event held in June 2023.

Grave’s leadership has also been instrumental in securing significant surpluses for CWI for three consecutive years. He has been a vocal advocate for changes in the ICC’s revenue-share model, calling it “completely broken” and urging the boards of India, Australia, and England to work with the ICC to improve the economics of Test cricket.

Kishore Shallow, CWI President, praised Grave’s contributions, stating, “Johnny’s efforts, particularly through challenging times such as the Covid-19 pandemic, as well as successfully hosting three World Cups including have made a lasting impact on CWI.”

Under Grave’s guidance, CWI has acquired and taken full ownership of the Coolidge Cricket Ground (CCG), which now serves as the organization’s headquarters and home to its Men’s and Women’s Academies.

CWI has initiated a comprehensive recruitment process to select Grave’s successor. The organization is committed to ensuring a thorough and transparent selection process, with details to be announced shortly.

Categories: Cricket

Shakib Al Hasan Confirms Availability for All 2024 Bangladesh Test Matches

By Nilay August 12, 2024 0

Star Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has confirmed his availability for all eight Test matches scheduled in 2024, providing a significant boost to the team’s World Test Championship (WTC) campaign.

Chief selector Gazi Ashraf Hossain confirmed Shakib’s commitment, stating that the player had assured the selectors of his participation in all practice sessions and Test matches. This is a significant development, as Shakib had previously expressed uncertainty about his availability beyond the upcoming Pakistan series.

Shakib’s return to the Test fold is crucial for Bangladesh, as he is one of the world’s leading all-rounders. His presence in the team provides balance and depth, both with bat and ball. Hossain emphasized Shakib’s importance, stating that he is “one of the best all-rounders over the past years.”

Bangladesh’s Test schedule in 2024 includes four two-match series against Pakistan, India, South Africa, and the West Indies. These matches are part of the WTC cycle, which determines the top-ranked Test team in the world.

Shakib’s availability for all these matches will be a major asset for Bangladesh, as they aim to improve their position in the WTC standings. The team currently sits in ninth place, but with Shakib in the lineup, they have a chance to challenge the top teams.

The WTC series against Pakistan begins on August 21, with the second match starting on August 30. Shakib is expected to join the team on August 14 or 15 and participate in practice sessions before the first Test.

Categories: Cricket

Vyshak Vijaykumar Ready to Showcase Skills in Maharaja Trophy

By Nilay August 12, 2024 0

Vyshak Vijaykumar, the vice-captain and pacer of Gulbarga Mystics, is poised to showcase his enhanced skills and bolstered self-assurance in the upcoming Maharaja Trophy Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) T20 tournament.

During the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, Vyshak made a significant impact for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) franchise, claiming four wickets in four matches. His impactful bowling spells proved to be game-changers, helping RCB secure victories.

Inspired by his RCB teammates like Virat Kohli and Mohammed Siraj, Vyshak has adopted a meticulous approach to his game. “Training with Virat Kohli can really impact you as a player,” he remarked. “I paid attention to his work ethic, process, and consistency. Everything he does is done with precision.”

As a seasoned member of the Gulbarga Mystics, Vyshak will mentor and guide the less experienced players. He will draw upon the wisdom imparted to him by his own mentors, such as Siraj, who provided invaluable guidance during his early days in the squad.

“In my first game for RCB, I did well, but then I conceded 60 runs in the next match,” Vyshak recalled. “Siraj told me, ‘This is the game, and this is the challenge at the highest level.’ I am keen to keep this in mind and to pass on these lessons whenever I can.”

Vyshak is determined to surpass the obstacles faced by the Mystics in the previous season, when they finished third without the services of Devdutt Padikkal. “Missing Devdutt made a big difference last season,” he said. “We want to finish stronger this year. We bat deep, and I have been batting well too, so I am hoping to contribute with the bat as well.”

Although stepping down from captaincy, Vyshak is excited to work alongside Padikkal as vice-captain. “I love captaincy, but with Devdutt’s experience and recently his India debut, I am looking forward to supporting him as the vice-captain,” he added.

Vyshak credits the Maharaja Trophy for helping launch his IPL career. “The first season of Maharaja got me noticed and led to my IPL debut,” he remarked. “This platform provided by KSCA is exceptional and a huge opportunity for all of us.”

The Gulbarga Mystics will commence their journey in the Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 on August 15, facing the Bengaluru Blasters in the tournament’s opening encounter.

Categories: Cricket

Wriddhiman Saha Returns to West Bengal Cricket Team After Two-Year Stint with Tripura

Labuschagne Retires World Cup-Winning Bat, Stirring Indian Memories

Team GB Cricket Teams in the Works for 2028 Olympics

Trent Rockets Snatch Three-Wicket Win to Keep Hundred Hopes Alive

Keshav Maharaj’s Unwavering Passion Fuels South Africa’s Spin Prowess

Cricket Legends Join Forces for Charity Auction to Empower Underprivileged Communities

Wriddhiman Saha Returns to Bengal Cricket, Focuses on Present

Johnny Grave to Step Down as CWI CEO in 2024

Shakib Al Hasan Confirms Availability for All 2024 Bangladesh Test Matches

Vyshak Vijaykumar Ready to Showcase Skills in Maharaja Trophy

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