MS Dhoni's Fitness Sparks IPL Return Speculation

MS Dhoni’s Fitness Sparks IPL Return Speculation

MS Dhoni, the legendary former Indian cricket captain, has sparked speculation about his potential return to the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2025. Despite retiring from international cricket in 2020, Dhoni has remained an active player in the IPL, leading the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to four titles.

However, a knee injury plagued Dhoni throughout the 2023 IPL season, forcing him to wear a knee brace. Concerns about his fitness emerged, but a recent video clip on social media has allayed those fears. The 43-year-old was seen hitting a jump smash at lightning speed on a badminton court, showcasing his remarkable fitness.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly considering reintroducing the provision for franchises to retain retired international players as uncapped players. This rule was abolished in 2021, but its reinstatement could pave the way for Dhoni’s return to CSK as an uncapped player.

CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan has denied that the franchise has requested this rule change, but the BCCI has indicated that it may be implemented. If the rule is reinstated, CSK could retain Dhoni without using one of their retention slots, giving them greater flexibility in building their squad.

Dhoni’s availability for the 2025 IPL season remains uncertain, but his recent display of fitness has fueled speculation about his potential return. The mega auction will precede the season, and Dhoni’s decision will be closely watched by fans and franchises alike.

Bangladesh Fight Back with Rahim, Das Half-Centuries in Rawalpindi Test

Bangladesh Fight Back with Rahim, Das Half-Centuries in Rawalpindi Test

Bangladesh’s Mushfiqur Rahim and Litton Das put up a valiant fight against Pakistan’s bowling attack on Day 3 of the first Test in Rawalpindi. The duo added an unbeaten 98 runs for the sixth wicket, guiding Bangladesh to a respectable 316-5 at the close of play.

Rahim, who reached his 28th Test half-century with a boundary off Shaheen Shah Afridi, remained unbeaten on 55. Das, who also completed his half-century with a six off Naseem Shah, was not out on 52.

The pair came together after Bangladesh lost opener Shadman Islam for 93, just seven runs short of a century. Islam’s patient innings of 183 balls helped Bangladesh recover from a shaky start and lay the foundation for a solid total.

Pakistan’s bowlers struggled to make an impact on the unresponsive Rawalpindi pitch, with only Naseem Shah managing to break through the Bangladesh defense. Shah dismissed Litton Das for 52, ending a promising partnership that had threatened to take the game away from Pakistan.

Despite the wicket, Bangladesh remained in control of the match, trailing Pakistan’s total of 448-6 declared by 132 runs with five wickets in hand. The visitors will be confident of securing a draw or even pulling off a first-ever win over Pakistan in the 14th Test match between the rivals.

Shikhar Dhawan Retires from International and Domestic Cricket

Shikhar Dhawan Retires from International and Domestic Cricket

Shikhar Dhawan, India’s prolific opening batsman, has bid farewell to international and domestic cricket, marking the end of an illustrious career spanning over a decade. In a heartfelt video message, Dhawan expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to represent his country and the unwavering support he received throughout his journey.

Dhawan’s international debut came in 2010 against Australia in Visakhapatnam, and he quickly established himself as a formidable force in the Indian batting lineup. Over the course of his career, he amassed an impressive 10,000 runs across all formats, including 24 centuries—17 in ODIs and 7 in Tests.

One of Dhawan’s most memorable performances came during the 2013 ICC Champions Trophy, where he emerged as the tournament’s leading run-scorer. His exceptional batting, which included two centuries and one fifty, played a pivotal role in India’s triumph.

Dhawan’s retirement marks the end of an era for Indian cricket. He was a key member of the team that won the 2013 Champions Trophy and the 2011 Cricket World Cup. His aggressive batting style and ability to score runs at a rapid pace made him a fan favorite.

In his retirement message, Dhawan expressed his gratitude to his family, coaches, teammates, and fans for their unwavering support. He acknowledged the sacrifices he had made along the way but emphasized that he was at peace with his decision.

Dhawan’s retirement leaves a void in the Indian cricket team, but his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of players. His exceptional talent, unwavering determination, and infectious enthusiasm have made him one of the most beloved cricketers in India.

Virat Kohli's Star Power Undiminished in London, Caught on Train

Virat Kohli’s Star Power Undiminished in London, Caught on Train

Virat Kohli, the iconic Indian batter, is currently enjoying a break from the cricketing frenzy in London with his family. Despite being away from the field, Kohli’s star power remains undiminished, as evidenced by a recent viral video that captured him catching a train in the British capital.

As Kohli disembarked from the shuttle, a fan approached him for a photograph. Kohli, while acknowledging the request, politely informed the fan that he would only pose for a group picture. The video, which has since gone viral, showcases Kohli’s global fan following and the difficulty he faces in escaping recognition, even in a foreign city.

Kohli’s international cricket journey began 16 years ago, on August 18, 2008, against Sri Lanka in Dambulla. The then-19-year-old opened the batting with Gautam Gambhir and scored 12 runs. Despite a modest debut, Kohli has since transformed into a batting behemoth for India.

In ODIs, Kohli has amassed a staggering 13,906 runs in 295 matches, including a record-breaking 50 centuries. He has also scored 8,848 runs in 113 Test matches and 4,188 runs in 125 T20Is. Kohli’s trophy cabinet boasts the 2011 ODI World Cup, the 2013 Champions Trophy, and the 2024 T20 World Cup.

Kohli’s leadership qualities have also been evident in his role as India’s Test captain. Under his stewardship, the team won 40 out of 68 matches, making him the most successful Indian Test captain in terms of wins.

Kohli’s Royal Challengers Bangalore franchise, where he has played since 2008, celebrated his 16 years in international cricket with a heartfelt tribute. The franchise hailed Kohli as a “King” and praised his relentless passion and unwavering commitment to the sport.

MS Dhoni: The Captain Cool with a Passion for Motorcycles

MS Dhoni: The Captain Cool with a Passion for Motorcycles

Mahendra Singh Dhoni, the legendary Indian cricketer renowned for his calm demeanor on the field, is equally admired for his deep passion for motorcycles. His fascination with bikes began long before he became a cricket icon. Growing up in Ranchi, he developed a love for motorcycles that evolved into a lifelong passion.

Over the years, Dhoni has added iconic models like the Confederate X132 Hellcat, Kawasaki Ninja H2, and Harley-Davidson Fat Boy to his collection. Beyond collecting, Dhoni often enjoys taking his bikes for rides, frequently spotted cruising through his hometown.

Recently, Dhoni, who led India to three ICC titles, made a fan’s day by signing an autograph on his bike. The video of this heartwarming gesture went viral on social media, showcasing Dhoni’s humility and love for his fans.

Dhoni’s passion for motorcycles extends beyond personal enjoyment. He is also an avid supporter of motorsports in India. In 2019, he became the co-owner of the Chennai Super Kings MotoGP team, further cementing his connection to the world of two-wheeled machines.

Dhoni’s love for motorcycles is a testament to his multifaceted personality. While he is known for his calm and composed demeanor on the cricket field, his passion for bikes reveals a more adventurous and spirited side to his character.

Pooran's Pyrotechnics Power West Indies to T20I Win

Pooran’s Pyrotechnics Power West Indies to T20I Win

Nicholas Pooran’s blistering knock of 65 runs off just 26 deliveries propelled West Indies to a comfortable seven-wicket victory over South Africa in the opening match of their three-match Twenty20 International series in Trinidad.

After South Africa, missing several regular players, posted a respectable 174-7 in their 20 overs, the West Indies openers, Alick Athanaze and Shai Hope, laid the foundation for the chase with an 84-run partnership. Athanaze contributed 40 runs off 30 balls, while Hope scored 51 off 36 deliveries.

However, it was Pooran who stole the show with his explosive innings. The left-hander smashed seven sixes and two fours, finishing the match in style with a boundary off the final delivery. His innings overshadowed the efforts of Tristan Stubbs (76 off 42 balls) and Patrick Kruger (44 off 32 balls), who had earlier rescued South Africa from a precarious position.

South Africa’s innings had started poorly, with the tourists slumping to 42-5. But Stubbs and Kruger combined for a 71-run sixth-wicket partnership to give their team a fighting total.

For the West Indies, Matthew Forde was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 3-27, while Shamar Joseph claimed 2-40.

The victory gives West Indies a 1-0 lead in the series, with the second match scheduled for Sunday at the same venue.

Hazlewood Out of Scotland T20Is, Meredith Called Up

Hazlewood Out of Scotland T20Is, Meredith Called Up

Josh Hazlewood’s calf strain has ruled him out of Australia’s T20I series against Scotland next month, adding to the team’s injury woes. Riley Meredith has been called up as his replacement.

Hazlewood sustained the injury during training last week, and while it is described as minor, the selectors are likely to take a cautious approach ahead of a busy home summer that includes five Tests against India. He is expected to be available for the T20Is and ODIs against England later in September.

Meredith, who last played for Australia in 2021, has been in impressive form for Somerset in England’s white-ball competitions. He has taken 14 wickets in the T20 Blast and six in the one-day cup, including a match-winning 4 for 27 against Middlesex at Lord’s.

Hazlewood’s absence is the second blow to Australia’s pace attack, with Spencer Johnson also ruled out with a side strain. The pace attack for the Scotland series will now feature Meredith, Xavier Bartlett, Sean Abbott, and Nathan Ellis, alongside allrounders Cameron Green, Aaron Hardie, and Marcus Stoinis. Adam Zampa and the uncapped Cooper Connolly will provide the spin.

Hazlewood was the only one of Australia’s “big three” quicks initially included for the full tour of the UK. Mitchell Starc will feature in the ODIs against England, while Pat Cummins is missing the entire trip to focus on strength and conditioning ahead of the home summer.

“The priority at the moment is to smash out some gym work and start reassessing in a few weeks a path forward,” Cummins said last week. “I’m just trying to fill up the bucket again after two years of non-stop bowling. [Hoping] come that first Test [against India] in as good of a position as I have been in for a few years.”

Australia fly out to Scotland on Monday with the first T20I taking place in Edinburgh on September 4.

England on Cusp of Victory in First Test Against Sri Lanka

England on Cusp of Victory in First Test Against Sri Lanka

England is poised to secure a victory over a resilient Sri Lanka in the first Test at Old Trafford. At the end of the third day, Sri Lanka had fought back to 204-6 in their second innings, trailing by a mere 82 runs.

Angelo Mathews (65) and Kamindu Mendis (56 not out) led a determined rearguard action, erasing the 122-run deficit from the first innings. However, England, who had earlier declared on 358 with Jamie Smith making his maiden Test century, remain favorites to take the lead in the three-match series on Saturday.

Resuming the day with a 23-run lead and four first-innings wickets remaining, Smith extended his overnight score of 72 to 111 off 148 balls, becoming the youngest wicketkeeper to score a Test hundred for England. Gus Atkinson departed for 20, caught behind off debutant fast bowler Milan Rathnayake’s first Test wicket. Smith followed three overs later, edging a delivery from left-arm spinner Prabath Jayasuriya to wicketkeeper Dinesh Chandimal.

Tail-enders Mark Wood and Matthew Potts then shared a stand of 33 to bolster England’s lead. Sri Lanka, given a few overs to bat before lunch, made a disastrous start as Nishan Madushka was bowled by Chris Woakes for a duck. Atkinson then had Kusal Mendis caught behind by Smith, also without scoring, leaving Sri Lanka reeling at 1-2.

Dimuth Karunaratne and Mathews dug in after lunch, gradually reducing the deficit. However, Sri Lanka slipped to 95-4 when Chandimal retired hurt after a blow to the thumb. Mathews proved obdurate, but was eventually caught at point by Matthew Potts off Woakes’ bowling.

Milan Rathnayake was caught in the deep for 10, but Mendis remained unbeaten at stumps, giving Sri Lanka a glimmer of hope.

Ball Change Boosts England in First Test Against Sri Lanka

Ball Change Boosts England in First Test Against Sri Lanka

England’s second Test summer has witnessed another ball change that has favored the hosts. During the first Test against Sri Lanka at Emirates Old Trafford, the umpires agreed to England’s request to replace the worn-out Dukes ball after 41 overs of Sri Lanka’s second innings.

At the time, Sri Lanka held a slender lead of 24 with Angelo Mathews and Kamindu Mendis at the crease. The introduction of a firmer ball with a more pronounced seam revitalized England’s quicks. Mathews, who had reached 59, was dismissed by Chris Woakes in the 10th over with the new ball, ending a 78-run partnership.

Despite only taking one more wicket before the close, England created numerous chances with the replacement ball. Mathews and Kamindu were dropped by Joe Root and Gus Atkinson, respectively, while Woakes had two lbw decisions overturned on review.

Coincidentally, Woakes was also the beneficiary of a controversial ball change during last season’s Ashes Test at the Kia Oval. Australia’s Usman Khawaja questioned the switch to a newer, harder ball, which differed from the one used for the previous 37 overs.

Sri Lanka, however, expressed no complaints about the ball change. Former England international Ian Bell, Sri Lanka’s batting coach, acknowledged the poor condition of the original ball’s seam and accepted that the change made batting more challenging. He emphasized the need for consistency in future ball changes.

England centurion Jamie Smith praised Woakes for exploiting the conditions with the new ball. Meanwhile, England will provide an update on Mark Wood’s fitness on Saturday after he experienced discomfort in his right thigh.

Cox and Elgar Centuries Boost Essex in County Championship

Cox and Elgar Centuries Boost Essex in County Championship

Essex’s batting prowess was on full display at the Utilita Bowl as Jordan Cox and Dean Elgar notched up centuries against Hampshire in the Vitality County Championship.

Cox, who was overlooked by England for the First Rothesay Test against Sri Lanka, responded with a blistering 141 off 124 balls. His innings included sixes off James Fuller and Nick Gubbins, showcasing his aggressive batting style.

Elgar, the former South African captain, continued his impressive form with a masterful 136, his 51st first-class century. The left-hander occupied the crease for over five hours, ticking off runs with workmanlike efficiency.

Together, Cox and Elgar put on a 154-run partnership, doubling Essex’s advantage after they were put into bat on a green pitch. Captain Tom Westley also contributed with a solid 64 before being caught and bowled by Liam Dawson.

Hampshire’s bowlers fought back in the afternoon session, with Kyle Abbott dismissing Elgar and Matt Critchley. Nick Abbas picked up Paul Walter and Michael Pepper, while Dawson removed Simon Harmer.

Despite the late wickets, Essex reached 404 for eight at the close of play, collecting three bonus points. The match is likely to end in a draw due to the rain-affected first day, but Essex’s strong batting performance has put them in a commanding position.

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