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Category: Cricket

Irfan Pathan Questions Hardik Pandya's Leadership Skills, Raises Concerns About MI's Performance

Irfan Pathan Questions Hardik Pandya’s Leadership Skills, Raises Concerns About MI’s Performance

By April 16, 2024 0

Former all-rounder Irfan Pathan has raised concerns about Hardik Pandya’s leadership abilities as captain of the Mumbai Indians (MI) in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL). Pathan believes that Pandya’s inability to adapt to match situations and lack of a clear plan have contributed to MI’s poor performance so far.

“Hardik needs to manage MI really well. Whenever MI lost, Pandya had a big role to play,” Pathan said. “He needs to be aware of the situation and have a Plan A and Plan B. He is not a newbie, he has been playing for so many years. If he is not going to use his own experience and be smart about it, he will be found out.”

Pathan also questioned Pandya’s decision-making during MI’s recent loss to the Rajasthan Royals. “Even yesterday, Akash Madhwal didn’t bowl the last over, you need to give responsibility to him. When Shreyas Gopal got the wicket of Rachin Ravindra, why didn’t you give him another over? He only bowled one over… there was some slowness in the pitch and you need to adapt quickly, unfortunately, Pandya has not been able to adapt so far.”

Pathan acknowledged that Pandya had a successful run as captain of the Gujarat Titans under coach Ashish Nehra, but he emphasized that the MI support staff is also trying to help Pandya. “They are trying to help, it is up to Hardik Pandya,” Pathan said.

Pathan also expressed his disappointment over the possibility of Shivam Dube not being selected for the T20 World Cup. “Eventually there will be a time when Shivam Dube will put pressure on Pandya, the kind of hitting ability that Dube has, the way he has murdered the spinners, no one comes closer to him in Indian batting in the middle order, he is the best now,” Pathan said. “I will be highly disappointed if he doesn’t go to the World Cup.”

Regarding India’s bowling line-up for the World Cup, Pathan emphasized the need for a gun left-arm pacer and a wrist spinner. “I want selectors to have an in-form bowling line-up, you will have (Jasprit) Bumrah, probably a left-arm spinner in Jadeja or Axar Patel, a good wrist spinner, who will be wicket-taker in the middle overs. Get a gun left-armer who is in form, which we missed so many years now. If Arshdeep Singh can bowl like he is doing but also keep an eye on Mohsin Khan.”

Pathan also discussed the impact rule in the IPL, expressing concerns about its long-term effects on Indian cricket. “This rule is not that great for Indian cricket in the long term, see Venkatesh Iyer, Shivam Dube is not bowling, lots of all-rounders are not able to bowl. You want the youngsters to be part of the game,” he said. “I am really worried about the allrounder, eventually going forward we will have to think about this aspect.”

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RCB's Woes Continue as Bhupathi Calls for Franchise Sale

RCB’s Woes Continue as Bhupathi Calls for Franchise Sale

By April 16, 2024 0

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) endured a dismal outing on Monday, conceding a record-breaking 287 runs to SunRisers Hyderabad at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium. Despite valiant efforts from Dinesh Karthik, Virat Kohli, and Faf du Plessis, RCB fell short by 25 runs, marking their fifth consecutive loss in IPL 2024.

The defeat further jeopardizes RCB’s playoff hopes, as they languish at the bottom of the 10-team standings. RCB is one of three teams, along with Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings, to have played in the IPL since its inception in 2008 without ever winning the tournament.

In the wake of RCB’s latest setback, Indian tennis legend Mahesh Bhupathi expressed his frustration on social media, calling for the BCCI to enforce the sale of the franchise to a new owner. “For the sake of the Sport, the IPL, the fans, and even the players, I think BCCI needs to enforce the Sale of RCB to a New owner who will care to build a sports franchise the way most of the other teams have done so,” Bhupathi tweeted.

Bhupathi’s comments echo those of former England cricket captain Michael Vaughan, who recently questioned RCB’s inability to perform despite boasting a star-studded lineup. “What I like about the fact the RCB have never won is it proves to me that team sport is not just about individuals,” Vaughan said. “You can go and buy all the biggest individual names and put them into a team but it doesn’t mean you’re going to win.”

Vaughan believes that RCB’s struggles stem from a lack of team cohesion and a failure to identify specific roles for each player. “They’ve signed some incredible players – AB de Villiers, Virat Kohli, Glenn Maxwell, Faf – unbelievable players,” he said. “But it tells you unless you get the whole team operating and every single play knowing the roles and identifying different roles for different people, I don’t see the RCBs doing that.”

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Hardik Pandya's World Cup Place in Doubt After Mumbai Indians Defeat

Hardik Pandya’s World Cup Place in Doubt After Mumbai Indians Defeat

By April 16, 2024 0

Mumbai Indians’ recent 20-run defeat against Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 has raised concerns about Hardik Pandya’s place in India’s T20 World Cup squad. Pandya, who has been struggling with both bat and ball, has come under fire from former cricketers and fans alike.

Former India pacer Venkatesh Prasad took to social media to express his doubts about Pandya’s inclusion in the World Cup team. “I hope and pray that the best 15 T20 players in India are on the plane for the T20 World Cup. We can win the tournament with the talent we have, but it’s important to pick the best,” Prasad tweeted.

Pandya’s all-round abilities have made him a mainstay in India’s white-ball teams, but his recent form has been a cause for concern. Former New Zealand bowler Simon Doull suggested that Pandya should not be picked for the World Cup squad if he cannot consistently bowl.

After the defeat against Chennai Super Kings, Pandya admitted that the target was gettable but Mumbai Indians failed to find a solid partnership in the middle order. “The target was definitely gettable, but they bowled pretty well. Pathirana was the difference. They were smart with their plans and approach,” Pandya said.

Pandya’s struggles have coincided with Mumbai Indians’ poor start to the IPL season. The team has lost three of its first four matches and is currently languishing at the bottom of the points table.

With the T20 World Cup just months away, the pressure is mounting on Pandya to rediscover his form. If he fails to do so, he could find himself out of the Indian team for the tournament.

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Toss Controversy in IPL 2024: Srinath Exonerated, but Coin-Flipping Discussion Raises Questions

Toss Controversy in IPL 2024: Srinath Exonerated, but Coin-Flipping Discussion Raises Questions

By April 16, 2024 0

Toss Controversy in IPL 2024: Srinath’s Integrity Questioned, but Video Evidence Exonerates Him

In the aftermath of an enthralling IPL 2024 clash between Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bengaluru, a bizarre allegation surfaced on social media, casting doubt on the integrity of match referee Javagal Srinath. Several accounts accused Srinath of manipulating the toss outcome in favor of Mumbai Indians.

The accusations stemmed from claims that Srinath flipped the coin’s sides while picking it up, potentially altering the result. However, a more detailed video emerged, revealing that Srinath had simply forgotten the call made by RCB captain Faf du Plessis. The video caption dismissed the allegations, urging doubters to seek medical attention.

Despite the clarification, another video has gained traction, showing du Plessis and SRH skipper Pat Cummins discussing coin flipping before their IPL 2024 match. While the audio is absent, netizens speculate that they were discussing the coin toss.

Meanwhile, the SRH vs RCB match at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium witnessed a flurry of records. SRH’s total of 287/3 became the highest in IPL history, with Travis Head smashing a 39-ball century, the fourth-fastest in the tournament.

RCB’s bowlers struggled to contain SRH’s onslaught, as the visitors feasted on a batting paradise. Despite a strong start to the chase, RCB’s hopes were dashed by the dismissals of Virat Kohli and du Plessis.

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HPCA Stadium Installs India's First Hybrid Pitch, Revolutionizing Cricket

HPCA Stadium Installs India’s First Hybrid Pitch, Revolutionizing Cricket

By April 16, 2024 0

The Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) stadium in Dharamshala has become the first BCCI-accredited venue to install a state-of-the-art ‘hybrid pitch.’ This groundbreaking technology will transform the game by providing a more durable, consistent, and high-performing playing surface.

The Netherlands-based ‘SISGrass,’ a part of the SIS Pitches group of companies, has been roped in for the first-ever hybrid pitch installation in India. According to a press release, “this cutting-edge technology will transform the game by providing a more durable, consistent, and high-performing playing surface.”

HPCA president R.P. Singh said, “The arrival of ground-breaking hybrid pitch technology in India signifies a game-changing moment for our national cricket.” Paul Taylor, a former England cricketer and SIS’s international cricket director, said, “As we inject new and improved technological advancements into India’s vibrant cricket ecosystem, we foresee a catalytic effect on its growth trajectory.”

The surface contains a small percentage of polymer fibre with the natural turf inside cricket stadiums. This composition is believed to be more resilient to stresses created during play, while prolonging life of the pitch, guaranteeing an even bounce and easing pressure on groundstaff.

The completed installations are still predominantly natural grass, with only 5% polymer fibre used to ensure that the characteristics of an all-natural pitch are maintained. The ‘Universal’ machine, used in Dharamshala for the hybrid pitch, will be taken to Ahmedabad and Mumbai to create further such pitches. It will remain in India for future projects.

In the U.K., hybrid pitches are approved for T20 and 50-over competitions and will also be used in the four-day County Championship matches this season. The Universal machine has been used to install SISGrass at various grounds in England such as Lord’s, The Oval, Edgbaston, Old Trafford and Trent Bridge.

It must be noted that Dharamsala pitch and outfield came under scanner during the ODI World Cup last year and the entire playing surface was refurbished.

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Kohli's Strike-Rate Debate: Pathan Defends, Sehwag Suggests Improvement

Kohli’s Strike-Rate Debate: Pathan Defends, Sehwag Suggests Improvement

By April 16, 2024 0

Virat Kohli’s performance in the ongoing IPL 2024 has sparked a debate about his role in the modern T20 game. Despite leading the run-scoring charts with a century and two half-centuries in six matches, Kohli’s strike-rate of 141.77 has come under scrutiny.

Critics argue that the “anchor” role, where Kohli often bats through the innings, is no longer suitable for T20 cricket. They point to the need for high strike rates and quick scoring to succeed in the format.

However, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has defended Kohli’s strike-rate, comparing it to other top T20I batsmen. He highlighted that Kohli’s strike-rate of 138.15 is similar to Rohit Sharma’s (139.97) and better than Chris Gayle’s (137.50).

“You need to make it strike-rate plus average,” Pathan said. “You need to see the kind of role that particular player is playing. You can’t have the same yardstick for each and every player.”

Pathan emphasized that Kohli’s average of nearly 50, combined with his strike-rate, makes him a valuable asset to any team. He questioned the criticism of Kohli’s strike-rate, especially when he scored an unbeaten 113 off 72 balls against Rajasthan Royals, albeit in a losing effort.

Former Indian batter Virender Sehwag also acknowledged Kohli’s form but suggested that he could improve his strike-rate. However, Sehwag criticized the other RCB batters for failing to support Kohli, putting undue pressure on him.

The debate over Kohli’s role highlights the evolving nature of T20 cricket. While high strike rates are crucial, teams also need players who can anchor the innings and provide stability. Kohli’s ability to do both makes him a valuable asset, despite the ongoing scrutiny of his strike-rate.

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Karthik's 83 in Vain as RCB Suffer Fifth Straight Defeat

Karthik’s 83 in Vain as RCB Suffer Fifth Straight Defeat

By April 16, 2024 0

Dinesh Karthik’s Heroics Fall Short as RCB Succumb to Fifth Straight Defeat

In a thrilling encounter at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad, veteran wicketkeeper-batsman Dinesh Karthik produced a stunning performance for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in their chase of a mammoth 288 against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH).

Despite a dismal bowling performance from RCB, Karthik emerged as a beacon of hope, smashing a whirlwind 35-ball 83 in an improbable chase. His innings, adorned with five fours and seven sixes, came at a blistering strike rate of over 237.

Karthik’s heroics lifted the spirits of the RCB faithful, who had witnessed a horrendous display from their bowlers. The 38-year-old’s dazzling knock earned him a standing ovation as he returned to the pavilion.

However, Karthik’s efforts ultimately proved insufficient as RCB fell short by 25 runs, succumbing to their fifth consecutive defeat of the season. The veteran was the last wicket to fall in the 19th over, caught behind by Heinrich Klaasen off the bowling of T Natarajan.

Despite the defeat, Karthik’s performance served as a reminder of his enduring class and ability to turn the tide of a match. His innings was a testament to his experience and determination, and it will undoubtedly inspire his teammates in the matches to come.

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Glenn Maxwell Takes Break from IPL to Prioritize Well-being

Glenn Maxwell Takes Break from IPL to Prioritize Well-being

By April 16, 2024 0

Glenn Maxwell, the Australian all-rounder, has decided to take a break from the Indian Premier League (IPL) to prioritize his physical and mental well-being. The decision came after Maxwell requested the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) management to replace him for the match against Sunrisers Hyderabad.

Maxwell’s struggles in IPL 2024 have been evident, with the player scoring only 32 runs in six innings at an average of 5.33. Despite speculations of a thumb injury, Maxwell clarified that it was not the reason for his absence.

“It was an easy decision for me,” Maxwell said after RCB’s sixth defeat in seven matches. “I felt it was time to give someone else a chance. I’ve been in this situation before, and I think it’s better to take a break now and get my body and mind right.”

Maxwell acknowledged the team’s deficiency in the powerplay, an area where he has excelled in recent seasons. “I wasn’t contributing positively with the bat, and I felt it was the right time to give someone else an opportunity,” he explained.

Despite his recent struggles, Maxwell entered IPL 2024 in impressive form, having scored 552 runs in 17 T20s since November. However, a first-ball duck against Chennai Super Kings set the tone for his disappointing campaign.

“T20 cricket can be fickle,” Maxwell said. “I’ve made good decisions, but I’ve still found ways to get out. It can snowball, and you can start trying too hard.”

The SRH game, which turned out to be a high-scoring affair, left Maxwell with a sense of regret. “I realized it was probably a bad game to miss,” he said with a smile. “But I needed the physical and mental break to give myself the right to play professional cricket.”

Maxwell’s decision echoes a similar situation he faced in IPL 2020, where he managed only 108 runs in 11 innings. However, he emphasized that the circumstances were different this time.

“Back then, I was bowling well and playing more as a spinner,” Maxwell said. “Here, I’ve been working on taking ownership, but the runs haven’t come. I’ve had a great six months leading into this tournament, so it’s frustrating. But I’m confident I can finish well if I get another opportunity.”

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Electoral Bonds Scrapped: Modi Expresses Regret, EC Seizes Record Inducements

Electoral Bonds Scrapped: Modi Expresses Regret, EC Seizes Record Inducements

By April 16, 2024 0

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed regret over the Supreme Court’s decision to scrap the electoral bond scheme, claiming that it has pushed the country towards black money in elections. In an interview with ANI, Modi stated that the scheme should also be viewed as a success story as it revealed the sources of political party funding.

Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has accused Prime Minister Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah of visiting southern states, particularly Tamil Nadu, to compensate for potential losses in their traditional strongholds in the north. Stalin emphasized that the purpose of the upcoming election is to determine who should not come to power rather than who should.

The Election Commission (EC) has reported the largest seizure of inducements, including drugs and cash, in the history of elections. Even before polling begins for the Lok Sabha elections, the EC has seized ₹4,650 crore, surpassing the amount recovered in the 2019 elections.

The Madras High Court has directed the EC to explain its rationale for insisting that denial of pre-certification for election advertisements can only be challenged before the Supreme Court. The EC’s counsel has been granted time to take instructions after senior counsel R. Shunmugasundaram argued that the EC has no right to take away the writ jurisdiction of the High Courts.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has stated that the Narendra Modi-led government has ended the Free Movement Regime (FMR) along the 1,600 km India-Myanmar border to thwart a “conspiracy” to change the demography of Manipur. “No matter how hard anyone tries, we will not let anyone divide Manipur,” he said at a campaign rally in support of the BJP’s Inner Manipur candidate in Imphal.

A senior official of the Taliban’s ‘Justice Ministry’ has stated that the Taliban is in “continuous contact” with Hindus and Sikhs who were forced to flee Afghanistan and had their homes taken by warlords. The official said the Taliban will respect the property rights of minority communities and are “particularly committed” to defending the rights of Hindus and Sikhs in the country.

Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong has announced that he will step down on May 15 after two decades at the helm and hand power to his deputy Lawrence Wong. Mr. Lee, 72, will formally advise the city-state’s president to appoint Mr. Wong, who is currently deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister, to succeed him.

Israel’s European allies have urged the administration to show restraint over Iran’s weekend missile and drone attack, calling on Israeli leaders to step away from “the edge of the cliff” of escalation in West Asia. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s war Cabinet, which is empowered to decide on the country’s response, was set to convene on April 15 afternoon.

Former England spinner Derek Underwood, who gave a torrid time to the legendary Sunil Gavaskar, has passed away at Kent on April 15. He was 78. Underwood, a practitioner of slow left-arm orthodox spin, was highly regarded by his contemporaries because of his pin-point accuracy.

In the Indian Premier League (IPL), Sunrisers Hyderabad registered a well-crafted 25-run victory over Royal Challengers Bengaluru in a high-scoring affair. Travis Head’s maiden T20 hundred (102, 41b, 9×4, 8×6) and Heinrich Klaasen’s pillaging 67 (31b, 2×4, 7×6) drove Sunrisers to a record-breaking 287 for three.

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Pat Cummins and Nat Sciver-Brunt Named Leading Cricketers in the World by Wisden

Pat Cummins and Nat Sciver-Brunt Named Leading Cricketers in the World by Wisden

By April 16, 2024 0

Pat Cummins and Nat Sciver-Brunt have been crowned the Leading Cricketers in the World for 2024 by Wisden Cricketers’ Almanack. Cummins, Australia’s captain and fast-bowling spearhead, led his team to victories in the ICC World Test Championship and the 50-over World Cup. He also oversaw Australia’s successful defense of the Ashes against England. Sciver-Brunt, meanwhile, has been recognized as the pre-eminent women’s cricketer, particularly for her starring role in the Women’s Ashes, where she produced back-to-back ODI centuries.

The thrilling nature of both the Men’s and Women’s Ashes is reflected in the Anglo-Aussie flavor of Wisden’s Five Cricketers of the Year. Three Australians are named among the Five, including Ashleigh Gardner, Usman Khawaja, and Mitchell Starc. England’s Harry Brook and Mark Wood also make the list.

Travis Head has been awarded the Wisden Trophy for the year’s best Test performance for his match-winning innings of 163 in the World Test Championship final. Hayley Matthews becomes the first female to be named the Leading Twenty20 Cricketer.

Wisden’s editor, Lawrence Booth, highlights the compelling nature of the Ashes battle and the impact of England’s ultra-attacking “Bazball” approach. He also appeals for a reappraisal of the Spirit of Cricket and criticizes the game’s administrators for undermining the competitive nature of international cricket with an inequitable split of ICC revenues.

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