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.

Oakley's Sports Marketing Head: A Passionate Advocate for Indian Athletes

Oakley’s Sports Marketing Head: A Passionate Advocate for Indian Athletes

Ashwin Krishnan, the head of sports marketing for Oakley India, is a true sports enthusiast. With a decade of experience in the industry, he has played a pivotal role in establishing Oakley as the preferred eyewear brand for Indian athletes.

At the 2024 Paris Olympics, Krishnan’s primary responsibility is to provide Indian athletes with the perfect sunglasses for their needs. He has been instrumental in forging partnerships with renowned cricketers such as Yuvraj Singh, Virat Kohli, and Rohit Sharma, ensuring that they exclusively wear Oakley eyewear.

Krishnan’s passion for sports extends beyond cricket. He has played and worked in golf, and even provides commentary for racquet sports. His love for the game is evident in his close involvement with the Indian Premier League (IPL), where he assists in planning and operating matches.

Krishnan’s journey in the Olympics began in London in 2012. Since then, he has witnessed the evolution of Indian sports and the growing importance of eyewear in enhancing performance. He believes that the right sunglasses can provide athletes with an edge by reducing glare, improving visibility, and protecting their eyes from harmful UV rays.

In addition to his work with athletes, Krishnan is also dedicated to promoting sports at the grassroots level. He believes that sports have the power to transform lives and foster a sense of community. Through his involvement in various initiatives, he aims to make sports accessible to all.

SRH Owner Calls for Increased Player Retentions and Auction Transparency in IPL

SRH Owner Calls for Increased Player Retentions and Auction Transparency in IPL

Sunrisers Hyderabad Owner Advocates for Increased Player Retentions and Auction Transparency in IPL

Sunrisers Hyderabad owner Kavya Maran has proposed a significant change to the Indian Premier League (IPL) player retention system ahead of the 2025 season. During the IPL owners’ meeting at the BCCI Headquarters, Maran called for an increase in the number of player retentions or Right To Match (RTM) options for each team.

Maran believes that expanding the retention options to six would allow teams to preserve the core of their squads and avoid potential player discontent. She suggested that teams could utilize the options as four retentions and two RTMS, all six retentions, or all six RTMS.

“The choice on whether a retention or RTM is used should be with the franchise based on discussions with the player,” Maran explained. “This would give players the chance to either be retained or RTM at the market discovered price, ensuring that they are not disgruntled about the retention amount.”

Maran also highlighted the potential for side contracts between franchises and retained players if only retentions are allowed. She argued that RTMs would ensure that players receive market value within the restrictions of the purse, promoting transparency and maintaining the integrity of the IPL.

In addition to the retention proposal, Maran also advocated for a ban on players who fail to appear for the tournament despite being selected in the auction. “After being selected in the auction, if a player doesn’t come to play the season for any reason apart from injury, he should be banned,” she said.

Maran’s proposals were met with mixed reactions from other IPL owners. Some expressed support for the increased retention options, while others raised concerns about the potential impact on the auction process. The BCCI is expected to consider the proposals and make a decision in the coming months.

India to Continue Using Top-Order Batsmen as Part-Time Bowlers

India to Continue Using Top-Order Batsmen as Part-Time Bowlers

India’s bowling coach, Sairaj Bahutule, has revealed the team’s strategy of utilizing top-order batsmen as part-time bowlers. This approach, he believes, can provide a “surprise element” against opponents.

In the first ODI against Sri Lanka, opener Shubman Gill was given the opportunity to bowl, despite conceding 14 runs in his solitary over. Bahutule emphasized that this strategy will continue to be implemented in the future.

“Our batters are good bowlers as well,” Bahutule said. “They have the skills, even though their primary focus is batting.”

Bahutule cited the examples of Suryakumar Yadav and Rinku Singh, who bowled in the T20I series against Sri Lanka. He believes that having multiple bowling options, including part-time bowlers, is crucial in the shortest format of the game.

“It’s going to be an all-rounder’s game in the coming days,” Bahutule said. “If one or two top-order batsmen can bowl, it will definitely help the team, depending on the pitch conditions and situations.”

Bahutule also acknowledged that Sri Lanka’s spinners, Wanindu Hasaranga and Charith Asalanka, used the pitch conditions to their advantage. He admitted that India could have capitalized on the strong start given by Rohit Sharma, who scored a superb 58 off 47 balls.

“We did bat well in patches, but we could have had few partnerships that would have taken us home with less wickets going,” Bahutule said.

Despite the tie, Bahutule praised India’s bowling performance and expressed confidence in the team’s ability to improve in the upcoming matches.

Kumar Sangakkara Open to England Limited-Overs Coaching Role

Kumar Sangakkara Open to England Limited-Overs Coaching Role

Kumar Sangakkara, the legendary Sri Lankan cricketer, has expressed interest in the vacant England limited-overs coaching position but has not yet received a formal approach. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is seeking a new white-ball coach after sacking Matthew Mott following disappointing performances in the 2023 50-over World Cup and T20 World Cup.

Sangakkara, who has worked with England captain Jos Buttler at the Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League, has been linked with the role. However, the 46-year-old has downplayed the speculation, stating that he has not been contacted by the ECB.

“I know my name has been mentioned, but there has not been any approach as such,” Sangakkara told PA news agency. “The England white-ball job is an exciting prospect for anyone, but there are so many good candidates out there.”

Sangakkara praised Mott’s tenure as England coach and expressed admiration for the leadership of Rob Key, the managing director of England men’s cricket. He believes that England is on the right track and that the decision-making has been spot on.

“I think the decision making in the England camp has been spot on,” Sangakkara said. “I really love the leadership that Rob Key has provided…I think he has been a really smart, practical man, very commonsensical in terms of how he makes decisions and very forward-thinking in how he has set the vision for England cricket.”

Sangakkara, who is currently a member of Sky Sports’ commentary team for The Hundred, expressed contentment with his current role at the Rajasthan Royals. He also praised Sri Lankan cricketer Chamari Athapaththu for her inspiring leadership and her recent success in guiding the Sri Lanka women’s team to Asia Cup glory.

Joginder Sharma Reunites with Dhoni, Recalling 2007 T20 World Cup Heroics

Joginder Sharma Reunites with Dhoni, Recalling 2007 T20 World Cup Heroics

Joginder Sharma, the unsung hero of India’s triumphant 2007 T20 World Cup campaign, recently reunited with the legendary former India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni, rekindling memories of one of the most iconic moments in Indian cricket history.

In that unforgettable match, Dhoni entrusted Joginder with the daunting task of bowling the final over against a formidable Misbah-ul-Haq. The decision raised eyebrows, considering the high stakes and immense pressure. Pakistan required a mere 13 runs to secure victory with one wicket remaining.

Despite the intense scrutiny, Joginder displayed remarkable composure and precision. The over commenced with a wide, heightening the tension. However, he quickly regained his composure with a dot ball. Misbah then launched a six off the second delivery, reducing the equation to six runs off four balls.

Undeterred, Joginder remained focused. Misbah attempted a risky scoop shot over fine leg on the next delivery, but Sreesanth safely collected the ball. This dismissal sparked jubilant celebrations as India clinched the inaugural T20 World Cup by a narrow margin of five runs.

Joginder’s calm demeanor and precise execution under immense pressure transformed him into an overnight hero. “I thought I should give the ball to someone who really wants to do well in international cricket. Jogi did a really good job,” Dhoni remarked after the match.

“It’s one of the things I will cherish for the rest of my life. I’d like to congratulate the boys and thank them for the response they have given me. No one expected us to win, and the way we played, we deserve a big celebration,” the former India skipper added.

Dhoni’s astute leadership extended beyond the 2007 triumph. He guided India to two more ICC titles: the ODI World Cup in 2011 and the Champions Trophy in 2013. Additionally, India claimed the Test mace under his captaincy.

Joginder’s reunion with Dhoni serves as a poignant reminder of the camaraderie and resilience that characterized India’s historic T20 World Cup victory. It is a testament to the enduring legacy of that unforgettable moment and the enduring bond between two cricket legends.

Wellalage's All-Round Brilliance Ties ODI Series Opener

Wellalage’s All-Round Brilliance Ties ODI Series Opener

Dunith Wellalage, a rising star in Sri Lankan cricket, showcased his exceptional all-round abilities in the first ODI against India at Khettarama. Batting at number seven, the 21-year-old played a crucial innings of 67 not out off 65 deliveries, guiding Sri Lanka to a respectable total of 230 for 8.

Wellalage’s innings was a beacon of composure on a challenging pitch where no other batter looked entirely settled. He displayed a wide range of shots, including powerful boundaries, and drew inspiration from his teammate Pathum Nissanka, who has been in impressive form throughout the tour.

“I was watching Pathum Nissanka bat quite a lot,” Wellalage said. “I put his batting in my mind as I came up with a plan. If you take the pitch, it was one that supported spin bowling. I tried to put as much pressure on the bowler and build partnerships.”

With the ball, Wellalage proved equally effective, claiming two crucial wickets for 39 runs in nine overs. He dismissed India’s top scorer, Rohit Sharma, with a well-flighted delivery that beat the batsman in flight and struck him in front of the stumps.

Wellalage’s dismissal of Shubman Gill was equally impressive, as he deceived the opener with another flighted delivery that Gill top-edged to the keeper.

“We knew that the wicket was spinning,” Wellalage explained. “So Charith Asalanka had told me that I would be bowling in the powerplay. I had good support from the wicket too.”

“With Rohit at the time, I was trying just to bowl wicket-to-wicket, because I knew how much assistance there was from the pitch.”

Wellalage’s contributions with both bat and ball played a pivotal role in Sri Lanka’s ability to tie the match. His performance is a testament to his growing maturity and versatility as a cricketer.

Pant, Ishant to Grace Delhi Premier League Debut

Pant, Ishant to Grace Delhi Premier League Debut

Delhi Premier League to Feature International Stars Pant and Ishant

New Delhi is set to host its inaugural T20 league, the Delhi Premier League (DPL), starting August 17. The league will feature six men’s teams and four women’s teams, with international stars Rishabh Pant and Ishant Sharma expected to take the field.

The Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) unveiled the league on Tuesday, with former India opener Virender Sehwag as the ambassador. The draft was also conducted, with Pant and Ishant being picked up by Purani Delhi 6. Harshit Rana, currently with the Indian team in Sri Lanka, was selected by North Delhi Strikers.

However, the availability of these India players is subject to their national team commitments. “The India players’ eventual availability will depend on their commitments to the national team. However, Rishabh has given his consent to be placed in the draft for now,” said DDCA president Rohan Jaitley.

The DPL joins a growing number of state T20 leagues in India. Sehwag believes such platforms are crucial for the development of young players. “In our younger days, we used to only think of playing for India or Delhi. Now, the young generation wants to play T20. These leagues will help them get noticed,” he said.

Sehwag emphasized that the younger generation should not neglect longer formats. “This DPL will help you get noticed. But to grow as a player, you will have to play four-day cricket. Like IPL is a basis for selection for Indian team, DPL will also do the same for Delhi team,” he added.

Jaitley assured that the DDCA’s primary focus remains on Delhi’s long-format team. He also stated that the league has received BCCI approval after thorough checks and that there will be zero tolerance for any corrupt activities.

ICC Approves USD 70 Million Budget for Pakistan Champions Trophy

ICC Approves USD 70 Million Budget for Pakistan Champions Trophy

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has approved a substantial budget of approximately USD 70 million for the upcoming Champions Trophy tournament, scheduled to be held in Pakistan early next year. This decision was made after careful scrutiny and approval by the ICC’s financial and commercial committee, led by BCCI secretary Jay Shah.

The budget allocation includes a provision of USD 4.5 million for additional expenses, sparking speculation that these funds may be used to cover potential venue changes in case India declines to send its team to Pakistan. However, sources close to the ICC have indicated that this amount is insufficient to cover the costs of moving matches from Pakistan.

The approval of the budget has also raised questions about the potential impact on the Asia Cup, which is set to be hosted by India in 2025 and Bangladesh in 2027. The tentative format for the 2024 Asia Cup suggests that India and Pakistan could face off twice in the tournament, with a third match possible if both teams qualify for the final.

Despite the challenges and uncertainties surrounding the upcoming tournaments, the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) has reported profits from the 2023 Asia Cup, which was held in Pakistan and Sri Lanka. The source attributed these profits to the high viewership and excitement generated by the India-Pakistan matches.

The ICC’s decision to approve the budget for the Champions Trophy and the ACC’s plans for the Asia Cup highlight the importance of these tournaments in the global cricket calendar. The upcoming events are expected to attract significant attention and generate substantial revenue, further solidifying cricket’s position as one of the most popular sports worldwide.

Home
Shop
Wishlist0
Back to Top

Search For Products

Product has been added to your cart