R Ashwin Expands Batting Range, Urges Young Cricketers to Embrace Failures

R Ashwin Expands Batting Range, Urges Young Cricketers to Embrace Failures

At 37, R Ashwin is expanding his batting range in his first full Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL) season. Known for his boundary-hitting prowess down the ground, Ashwin has been working on playing boundary shots square of the wicket, a strategy that has paid off.

In Qualifier 2 against Idream Tiruppur Tamizhans, Ashwin dismantled left-arm fingerspinners R Sai Kishore and S Ajith Ram with reverse-sweeps, scoring 28 off nine balls. Overall, he has amassed 200 runs in eight innings at a strike rate of 166.66, with five innings coming at the top or No. 3 for Dindigul Dragons.

“Everything is work in progress,” Ashwin said. “I felt like I needed to widen my game square of the wicket because I know I can hit the ball down the ground. I wanted to explore other options to keep myself interested in the game.”

Dindigul’s rookie left-arm fingerspinner P Vignesh, who missed the Under-19 World Cup cut for India, has impressed with his accuracy and control. In Qualifier 2, he claimed 3 for 8 and the Player-of-the-Match award.

Ashwin urged the next generation of cricketers to embrace failures and improve their skills. “Missing the Under-19 cut is not the end of the world,” he said. “Failure and success are normal, and people become better only through failures. I hope they’re ready to expand their game and find answers to the questions that are going to be asked.”

Meanwhile, Shahrukh Khan of Lyca Kovai Kings has been working on a technical tweak to improve his game against spin. He has been using a trigger movement where he pushes his weight forward, which has helped him score off both the front and back foot.

Shahrukh’s overall strike rate against pace in the IPL is 161.11, but it falls to 112 against spin. However, in IPL 2024, he managed to lift his strike rate against spin to 168.75.

Despite losing to Dindigul in the league phase, Shahrukh is confident his team can put together their “best cricket” in the final. “We’re taking it as just another game,” he said. “We still haven’t played our best cricket this year, and we will try and do that.”

India and Sri Lanka Set for Thrilling Second ODI After Tied Encounters

India and Sri Lanka Set for Thrilling Second ODI After Tied Encounters

India and Sri Lanka, locked in a thrilling series, are set to face off in the second One-Day International (ODI) at the R. Premadasa International Stadium on Sunday. The match comes after two nail-biting encounters, with both teams tying one game each.

In the first ODI, India’s bowlers impressed, led by skipper Rohit Sharma’s aggressive opening spell. The team’s new strategy of fielding multiple left-handed batters, including Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, and Shivam Dube, was also evident. However, the hosts’ fragile middle order struggled against India’s spinners, leaving them vulnerable to collapse.

As the teams prepare for the second ODI, the focus will be on maintaining clinical execution and avoiding costly mistakes. The pitch for the first game favored spinners, making it difficult to score boundaries. It remains to be seen if the conditions will be similar for Sunday’s match.

India will be keen to capitalize on their momentum and secure a victory. Rohit Sharma, who returned to ODIs after the World Cup final, will be looking to continue his impressive form. The team’s batting lineup, which includes Virat Kohli, K.L. Rahul, and Rishabh Pant, will be expected to deliver.

Sri Lanka, on the other hand, will be desperate to bounce back and level the series. Their middle order, which has been a concern, will need to step up and provide support to the top order. The team will also rely on their experienced bowlers, including Wanindu Hasaranga and Chamika Karunaratne, to restrict India’s scoring.

With both teams eager to gain an advantage, the second ODI promises to be another intense and closely contested affair. The match will start at 2.30 p.m. IST.

ICC Prepares for India's Potential Absence from Champions Trophy in Pakistan

ICC Prepares for India’s Potential Absence from Champions Trophy in Pakistan

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is preparing for the possibility that India may decline to participate in the Champions Trophy in Pakistan next year. During its recent Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Colombo, the ICC approved a budget of approximately $65 million to cover expenses related to hosting matches outside Pakistan if necessary.

The ICC has not officially addressed India’s potential absence, but a contingency plan has been put in place. The Chief Executives Committee (CEC) has approved a budget that includes an estimate of the increased costs associated with moving matches outside Pakistan.

The ICC has not yet identified alternative venues, but Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi are the designated venues in Pakistan. The PCB has reportedly undertaken significant renovation work at these venues.

The budget allocation includes $35 million for the competition itself, $20 million for participation and prize money, and $10 million for television production costs. The ICC has circulated a tentative schedule to broadcasters and participating teams, with India’s matches scheduled to take place in Lahore, including the highly anticipated India-Pakistan encounter on March 1.

The tournament will feature two groups, with India and Pakistan joined by Bangladesh and New Zealand in Group A. Group B comprises Australia, England, Afghanistan, and South Africa. India’s other matches are scheduled against Bangladesh on February 20 and New Zealand on February 23.

The ICC has allocated a week-long support period from February 12th to 18th for teams to participate in practice matches and media events. March 10th has been designated as a reserve day for the final match.

The ICC will send a team to Pakistan next month to inspect the venues. The final decision on whether to move matches outside Pakistan will depend on the Indian team’s decision and the Government of India’s stance.

Sri Lanka Women's Cricket Team Adds Nuthyangana for Ireland Tour

Sri Lanka Women’s Cricket Team Adds Nuthyangana for Ireland Tour

Sri Lanka’s women’s cricket team has added wicketkeeper Kaushini Nuthyangana to its 16-member squad for the upcoming tour of Ireland. Nuthyangana, who has yet to make her ODI debut, will serve as backup to regular wicketkeeper Anushka Sanjeewani.

The squad, which lifted the Women’s Asia Cup last week, will be without talismanic skipper Chamari Athapaththu for the T20Is on August 11 and 13 due to her commitments with the Oval Invincibles in the Women’s Hundred. Athapaththu, who was named Player of the Tournament in the Asia Cup, will join the team for the ODIs, which are part of the 2022-2025 ICC Women’s Championship cycle, starting August 16.

In Athapaththu’s absence, Harshitha Samarawickrama, who was the last designated vice-captain, could lead the team. The batting burden will fall on the shoulders of 18-year-old Vishmi Gunaratne, who has the fifth-most runs in women’s T20Is in 2024, and Samarawickrama. Spin-bowling allrounder Kavisha Dilhari has also shown consistency with the bat.

However, there is some uncertainty in the batting lineup below these three players, although Hasini Perera, Nilakshika Silva, and Sanjeewani have all produced exciting cameos in the past year. Nuthyangana is likely to get game time as Sri Lanka does not have another batting replacement for Athapaththu in the squad.

The bowling options include four frontline spinners and three seamers.

BCCI Unveils State-of-the-Art National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru

BCCI Unveils State-of-the-Art National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to unveil a state-of-the-art National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru, India. The new facility, nearing completion, will provide world-class training and development opportunities for current and future cricketers.

The NCA boasts three world-class playing grounds, 45 practice pitches, and indoor cricket pitches. It also features an Olympic-size swimming pool, cutting-edge training facilities, and advanced recovery and sports science programs.

The new NCA is an extension of the existing academy, which has been operating in Bengaluru since 2000. The current NCA, headed by former India cricketer VVS Laxman, is located near the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium and is primarily used for player rehabilitation.

The BCCI is also planning to establish NCAs in Jammu and Kashmir and the North East. These regional academies will provide access to high-quality training and development programs for aspiring cricketers in these regions.

The new NCA in Bengaluru is expected to play a pivotal role in the development of Indian cricket. It will provide a comprehensive platform for players to hone their skills, improve their fitness, and prepare for international competition.

The BCCI’s investment in the NCA reflects its commitment to fostering excellence in Indian cricket. The academy will serve as a hub for innovation, research, and development, ensuring that India remains a global powerhouse in the sport.

Birmingham Phoenix Break Losing Streak with 16-Run Victory over Southern Brave

Birmingham Phoenix Break Losing Streak with 16-Run Victory over Southern Brave

Birmingham Phoenix, led by captain Ellyse Perry, broke their losing streak with a thrilling 16-run victory over Southern Brave at Edgbaston. Despite losing the toss and being put in to bat, Phoenix posted a competitive 137 for 7, thanks to a half-century from Amy Jones and a cameo from Emily Arlott.

Perry’s brilliance continued with the ball, as she claimed three crucial wickets in her opening spell, including Smriti Mandhana and Georgia Adams. Danni Wyatt and Freya Kemp attempted to steady the Brave innings, but Charis Pavely and Hannah Baker chipped away at their batting lineup.

With the required run rate climbing and the Brave running out of steam, Phoenix’s bowlers maintained their discipline, throttling the opposition’s scoring. Arlott’s innings, which included two sixes, proved to be the difference, according to Jones.

“Emily Arlott’s innings was the difference, clearing the fence with ease,” Jones said. “And Pez’s start was unbelievable. When you have someone like that, who can deliver such performances, it is a huge lift for the team. We were really good in the field and backed up the bowlers.”

India's Champions Trophy Participation Uncertain, Mushtaq Downplays Significance

India’s Champions Trophy Participation Uncertain, Mushtaq Downplays Significance

India’s participation in the 2025 Champions Trophy in Pakistan remains uncertain, prompting former Pakistan spinner Saqlain Mushtaq to downplay its significance. Mushtaq believes that the tournament should proceed regardless of India’s presence.

The ICC has allocated a substantial budget for the event, which is scheduled to take place in Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi. However, India’s stance on traveling to Pakistan is still unclear.

Mushtaq argues that the focus should not be on India’s decision but on ensuring the tournament’s success. He believes that the ICC will address any concerns regarding India’s participation.

“It’s simple. If India wants to come, they can. If they don’t want to come, it doesn’t matter. There’s no point in making a fuss about it,” Mushtaq said. “This won’t make either party good or bad. This is ICC’s event, and they will look into this matter, as they should.”

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has entrusted the ICC with the responsibility of persuading the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to send its team to Pakistan. The PCB has also advised its officials to refrain from commenting on India’s decision.

Despite the uncertainty, the PCB is proceeding with preparations for the tournament, assuming that India will participate. The ICC’s approval of the budget has fueled speculation that backup funds have been allocated in case India declines to send its team.

The PCB’s stance reflects its desire to host a successful Champions Trophy and showcase Pakistan’s capabilities as a host nation. However, the ultimate decision on India’s participation rests with the BCCI, which has yet to make an official statement.

Jasprit Bumrah's Magic Spells Propel India to T20 World Cup Glory

Jasprit Bumrah’s Magic Spells Propel India to T20 World Cup Glory

Ravi Shastri, India’s former head coach, has hailed Jasprit Bumrah’s exceptional performance in the T20 World Cup, describing him as a “magician with the ball.” Shastri highlighted two pivotal moments in India’s triumph: their victory over Pakistan in the group stage and their unexpected win against South Africa in the final.

In the India-Pakistan clash, Bumrah’s dismissal of Mohammad Rizwan turned the tide in India’s favor, as Pakistan was comfortably placed at 80/3. In the final against South Africa, Bumrah’s game-changing spell in the 16th over, conceding only four runs and dismissing Marco Jansen, put the Proteas on the defensive.

Shastri praised Bumrah’s ability to control the flow of the game, comparing him to legendary bowlers like Shane Warne, Wasim Akram, and Waqar Younis. He noted that Bumrah’s wicket of Rizwan in the final was crucial, as it shifted the momentum in India’s favor.

Shastri also lauded Suryakumar Yadav’s spectacular boundary catch that dismissed David Miller, bringing South Africa down to 161/7 with five deliveries remaining. He emphasized that Miller’s dismissal was a game-changer, as he is known for his big-hitting abilities.

Furthermore, Shastri expressed admiration for Rishabh Pant’s resilience in returning to top-level cricket after a near-fatal car accident. He praised Pant’s exceptional keeping skills, noting that he hardly missed a catch despite the pressure of the tournament.

Jos Buttler Ruled Out of Hundred with Calf Injury

Jos Buttler Ruled Out of Hundred with Calf Injury

Jos Buttler, England’s white-ball captain, has been ruled out of the Hundred tournament due to a calf injury. The injury occurred during preparations for the competition, and an initial scan proved inconclusive. However, a subsequent assessment confirmed the severity of the injury, forcing Buttler to withdraw from the tournament.

Buttler’s absence is a significant blow to Manchester Originals, who have lost their first three matches in his absence. Phil Salt, Buttler’s opening partner, has captained the team in his stead but has struggled for runs, scoring only 23 in three innings. The Originals’ batting lineup has looked vulnerable without Buttler’s presence.

Buttler’s injury history includes several calf injuries, including a strain two years ago that ruled him out of England’s T20I series in Pakistan. The injury also threatened his participation in the 2022 T20 World Cup.

Despite the setback, Buttler is expected to be fit in time for England’s first T20I against Australia on September 11. Managing director Rob Key has confirmed that Buttler will continue as England’s white-ball captain, with Marcus Trescothick serving as interim coach during the series.

The Originals are yet to announce a replacement for Buttler, but they had initially lined up Keaton Jennings as a potential candidate. However, the move stalled due to confusion over Buttler’s status, and Jennings has since signed for London Spirit.

Buttler’s injury is a reminder of the physical demands of modern cricket, particularly in the shorter formats. Calf injuries are common among fast bowlers and all-rounders, but they can also affect batsmen who rely on quick acceleration and agility.

Saqlain Mushtaq: India's Absence in 2025 Champions Trophy Irrelevant

Saqlain Mushtaq: India’s Absence in 2025 Champions Trophy Irrelevant

Amidst the uncertainty surrounding India’s participation in the 2025 Champions Trophy in Pakistan, former Pakistan spinner Saqlain Mushtaq has expressed indifference towards the visitors’ decision. He believes that the tournament should proceed regardless of India’s presence.

Mushtaq, who previously served as Pakistan’s head coach, emphasized that the International Cricket Council (ICC) is responsible for addressing the matter. He dismissed the notion of making a fuss over India’s potential absence, stating that it would not affect the tournament’s legitimacy.

Regarding Pakistan’s recent disappointing performance in the 2024 Men’s T20 World Cup, Mushtaq called for a reassessment of the team’s leadership. He criticized the lack of long-term vision in previous captaincy appointments, arguing that it has hindered the team’s progress.

Mushtaq believes that the team management should consider appointing a new captain who can lead effectively for an extended period. He emphasized the importance of evaluating potential candidates based on their leadership qualities and vision, rather than making short-term decisions.

He also cautioned against the constant chopping and changing of captains, as it disrupts team stability and hinders the development of a world-class side. Mushtaq stressed the need for a comprehensive strategy and a long-term plan for grooming future leaders.

Mushtaq lamented the absence of a structured system for identifying and developing captains in Pakistan. He believes that the lack of ambition to create such a system has prevented the team from reaching its full potential.

He concluded by emphasizing the importance of evaluating potential leaders based on their performances, leadership qualities, and vision. By following this process, Pakistan can identify and groom the next generation of captains who can lead the team to global recognition.

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