J&K Dominates Chhattisgarh, MP Takes Control Against Jharkhand in Buchi Babu Tournament

J&K Dominates Chhattisgarh, MP Takes Control Against Jharkhand in Buchi Babu Tournament

In the ongoing Buchi Babu Memorial all-India invitational cricket tournament, Jammu & Kashmir (J&K) has taken a commanding lead against Chhattisgarh in the Group-D match. On day three, J&K declared their first innings on 587 for nine, securing a 309-run lead.

Opener Shubham Khajuria played a marathon innings, scoring 202 runs off 368 deliveries, including 17 fours and 8 sixes. He shared a crucial 223-run fifth-wicket partnership with Sahil Lotra (107 off 192 balls, 9 fours, 2 sixes).

In response, Chhattisgarh managed to score only 46 for two in their second innings, trailing by 263 runs.

Meanwhile, in Group-A, Madhya Pradesh (MP) is in a strong position against Jharkhand. Aniket Verma’s 110 (109 balls, 6 fours, 7 sixes) helped MP reach 238 in their second innings. Jharkhand, chasing 175, ended the day on 37 for one.

Earlier, MP’s medium-pacer Parush Mandal claimed five wickets for 42 runs, bowling out Jharkhand for 289 in their first innings, giving MP a 64-run lead.

In other matches, Indian Railways declared their first innings on 570 and then scored 135 for five in their second innings against Gujarat in Group-B. Haryana declared their first innings on 419 and Mumbai responded with 83 for two in Group-C.

Young Girl Stuns with Perfect Imitation of Jasprit Bumrah's Bowling Action

Young Girl Stuns with Perfect Imitation of Jasprit Bumrah’s Bowling Action

Young Girl Impresses with Spot-On Imitation of Jasprit Bumrah’s Bowling Action

A young girl has become an internet sensation after her uncanny imitation of Indian pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah’s unique bowling action went viral on social media. The video showcases the girl’s remarkable ability to replicate Bumrah’s signature style, from his short run-up to his rapid arm movement and release.

Bumrah’s unorthodox bowling action has become a trademark of his bowling prowess, baffling batsmen around the world. The girl’s ability to mimic his action with such precision has garnered praise from cricket enthusiasts and fans alike. The video has been widely shared across social media platforms, with users applauding the girl’s talent and potential.

Bumrah is expected to return for the upcoming three-Test series against New Zealand, which is set to commence on October 16. The talented bowler has been on a well-earned break following India’s triumphant campaign in the T20 World Cup.

However, it is anticipated that Bumrah might continue his rest period during the two Tests against Bangladesh scheduled for September. The Indian team management and selectors are reportedly exploring options to introduce more variety into the pace attack. As a result, there is a possibility of including a left-arm seam and swing bowler to the pool of pacers who are competing for a spot in the Test squad.

This strategic move aims to add depth and versatility to the bowling lineup, providing the team with a wider range of options to choose from based on the playing conditions and opposition.

Sanju Samson Enjoys Football Break After Sri Lanka Tour

Sanju Samson Enjoys Football Break After Sri Lanka Tour

Sanju Samson, India’s wicketkeeper-batter, is currently enjoying a break from cricket after the team’s tour of Sri Lanka. In a viral video, Samson was seen playing football on a basketball court, showcasing his versatility and love for sports.

Despite being a part of India’s triumphant T20 World Cup 2024 squad, Samson did not get an opportunity to play in the tournament. The team management preferred Rishabh Pant as their primary wicketkeeper-batter, leaving Samson on the sidelines.

Samson recently expressed his disappointment at being left out of the Indian ODI squad. “I will just go and play whenever they select me. That’s it! At the end of the day, our team is doing well. I am the kind of person who believes in higher purpose. I just try to take things positively under controllable circumstances and put up the efforts,” Samson said at the launch of Kerala Cricket League.

Samson’s struggles in the recently concluded T20I series against Sri Lanka, where he recorded back-to-back ducks, may have contributed to his omission from the ODI squad. However, Samson remains a talented player with a proven track record in domestic cricket.

Despite the setbacks, Samson remains positive and focused on improving his game. He is expected to return to action in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season, where he will represent the Rajasthan Royals.

Samson’s versatility and love for sports are evident in his recent football outing. It is a reminder that even elite athletes can find joy and fulfillment in activities outside their primary sport.

ICC Open to Cricket's Inclusion in 2030 Youth Olympic Games

ICC Open to Cricket’s Inclusion in 2030 Youth Olympic Games

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has expressed its willingness to collaborate with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to include cricket in the Youth Olympic Games (YOG) in 2030. This move aligns with the Indian government’s bid to host the 2030 YOG in Mumbai.

In an email exchange, Vivek Gopalan, a sports enthusiast, proposed the idea to William Glenwright, ICC’s General Manager of Development. Glenwright responded positively, acknowledging the potential of cricket’s inclusion in the YOG. The correspondence included key ICC stakeholders, ensuring their awareness of the initiative.

Gopalan emphasized the strong case for cricket’s inclusion, citing the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s public declaration of India’s desire to host both the 2030 YOG and 2036 Olympics. Modi had previously mentioned the YOG during his speech at the IOC session in Mumbai in 2023.

The email highlighted the potential impact of cricket’s inclusion on grassroots development, particularly among ICC Associate countries. The YOG, which caters to athletes aged 15 to 18, could provide a global platform for young cricketers to showcase their skills.

The email also noted the IOC’s recognition of cricket’s brand value and its potential to enhance the Olympic brand. This recognition could facilitate the inclusion of cricket as a core sport in the YOG.

Cricket’s return to the Olympic Games is already confirmed for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, marking its first appearance since 1900. The ICC’s willingness to work with the IOC on the YOG further underscores the growing recognition of cricket’s global appeal and its potential to inspire young athletes.

Pakistan Pacer Khurram Shahzad Rattles Babar Azam in Intense Net Session

Pakistan Pacer Khurram Shahzad Rattles Babar Azam in Intense Net Session

Pakistan’s star batter Babar Azam faced a challenging net session ahead of the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh, as pacer Khurram Shahzad rattled him with an inswinging delivery that struck him near the abdominal region. The incident, captured on video and shared on social media, has sparked concern among fans.

Shahzad’s delivery left Azam visibly in pain, and he struggled to time the ball effectively throughout the session. The video shows Azam getting clean bowled on the very next delivery he faced from the same bowler.

The incident occurred during a training session in Rawalpindi, where the Pakistan team is preparing for the two-match Test series against Bangladesh, starting August 21. The series will mark the first assignment for Jason Gillespie as Pakistan’s Test coach.

Pakistan has opted for a pace-heavy lineup for the series, with five fast bowlers and just one frontline spinner, Abrar Ahmed. Saud Shakeel has been appointed as the new vice-captain.

The Pakistan squad for the Test series includes: Shan Masood (captain), Saud Shakeel, Aamir Jamal (subject to fitness), Abdullah Shafique, Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Kamran Ghulam, Khurram Shahzad, Mir Hamza, Mohammad Ali, Muhammad Hurraira, Mohammad Rizwan, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha, Sarfaraz Ahmed, and Shaheen Shah Afridi.

Bangladesh, on the other hand, will be led by Najmul Hossain Shanto. Their squad includes Mahmudullah, Zakir Hasan, Shadman Islam, Mominul Haque, Mushfiqur Rahim, Shakib Al Hasan, Litton Das, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taijul Islam, Nazmul Hossain, Nurul Hasan, Ebadot Hossain, Hasan Mahmud, Taskin Ahmed, and Khaled Ahmed.

The first Test will be played at the Pindi Cricket Stadium from August 21 to August 25, while the second Test will be held in Karachi from August 30 to September 3. Spectators will not be allowed during the second Test due to ongoing renovations at Karachi’s National Stadium.

PCB Releases Ahmed and Ghulam from Test Squad for Match Practice

PCB Releases Ahmed and Ghulam from Test Squad for Match Practice

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has made a strategic move by releasing spinner Abrar Ahmed and top-order batter Kamran Ghulam from the Pakistan squad for the first Test against Bangladesh. This decision stems from the selectors’ preference for an all-pace attack in the opening match of the ICC World Test Championship.

To ensure that Ahmed and Ghulam maintain match fitness, they have been included in the Pakistan Shaheens squad for the second four-day match against Bangladesh ‘A’, commencing on August 20 at the Islamabad Club. Ghulam has been appointed as the captain of the Shaheens for this encounter.

The PCB’s decision to release Ahmed and Ghulam from the Test squad is aimed at providing them with valuable match practice ahead of the second Test, which will be played in Karachi from August 30. This move will allow them to regain their rhythm and prepare for the challenges of the upcoming Test.

As a result of these changes, the Pakistan Test squad has been reduced to 15 players. However, it will revert to its original strength of 17 players after the conclusion of the second four-day match, when Ahmed and Ghulam will rejoin the side for the Karachi Test.

Several players have been transferred between the Pakistan Test and Shaheens squads. Mir Hamza, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Huraira, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Sarfaraz Ahmed, and Saud Shakeel have joined the Test side, while Mohammad Rameez Jnr has been omitted from the Shaheens squad for the second four-day match.

The Shaheens squad for the second four-day match has been bolstered by the inclusion of Abrar Ahmed, Ali Zaryab Asif, Awais Anwar, Imam Ul Haq, Niaz Khan, Qasim Akram, Rohail Nazir, and Sharoon Siraj. These players will replace the eight players who have joined the Test side.

Mayank Yadav's Rehab and India Squad Prospects Uncertain

Mayank Yadav’s Rehab and India Squad Prospects Uncertain

Mayank Yadav, India’s promising right-arm pacer, is diligently undergoing rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru. His exceptional pace has garnered attention since his impressive performance in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, despite playing only four matches.

During his brief IPL stint, Yadav showcased his raw talent, claiming seven wickets at an economical rate of 6.99. His blistering pace consistently exceeded 150 kmph, with his fastest delivery clocking in at an astonishing 156.7 kmph.

However, Yadav’s promising run was cut short by an injury, prompting questions about his potential inclusion in the Indian squad. Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Jay Shah acknowledged Yadav’s talent but remained non-committal about his immediate selection.

“I cannot give you any answer on Mayank Yadav as there is no guarantee whether he will be in the team or not. But he is potentially a good fast bowler, and we are looking after him. He is currently in the NCA,” Shah told Times of India.

Yadav’s IPL debut for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in 2023 was equally impressive, but an injury forced him to withdraw after just four games. Despite being acquired by LSG for a base price of Rs 20 lakh in the 2022 auction, he was replaced by Arpit Guleria due to an injury.

Throughout his T20 career, Yadav has amassed 19 wickets in 14 matches, while in List A cricket, he has claimed 34 wickets in 17 matches. He represents Delhi in the domestic circuit.

In April 2024, Yadav etched his name in the IPL record books by delivering the fastest ball of the tournament. His blistering delivery propelled Lucknow Super Giants to a resounding victory over Royal Challengers Bengaluru.

Yadav’s rehabilitation at the NCA is a testament to his determination to overcome injuries and fulfill his potential. With his raw pace and impressive track record, he remains a promising prospect for the Indian cricket team.

IPL Owners Set to Reshape England's Hundred Competition

IPL Owners Set to Reshape England’s Hundred Competition

The Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise owners are poised to make a significant impact on the England and Wales Cricket Board’s (ECB) Hundred competition. As the ECB prepares to sell shares in its eight Hundred teams in September, it is eager to attract Indian capital. According to The Guardian, even minority investments will grant new owners substantial influence, as all ten IPL owners are expected to bid for shares.

Sources involved in the sale process indicate that IPL owners are seeking control in exchange for their investments. They are likely to push for name changes, with the extent of the changes depending on the amount invested. The Ambani family, owners of the Mumbai Indians and its sister franchises, is reportedly considering a substantial bid for the London Spirit team, with plans to rebrand it as MI London.

London Spirit is considered the most valuable team in the Hundred, and its sale is expected to generate a significant portion of the revenue. The ECB has been in discussions with potential investors for several months, including Hollywood actor Ryan Reynolds and Manchester United owner Avram Glazer. American owners of Birmingham City, Knighthead Capital, have also expressed interest in acquiring a stake in Birmingham Phoenix.

The Rajasthan Royals, IPL champions in 2008, are expected to bid for the Northern Superchargers as part of their acquisition of Yorkshire. The Delhi Capitals, who recently acquired Hampshire for 120 million pounds, are also likely to seek a stake in the Southern Brave.

These moves align with the growing global reach of the IPL. The league’s popularity and financial success have made it an attractive investment for international investors. The ECB’s decision to sell shares in the Hundred is seen as a strategic move to capitalize on this interest and further develop the competition.

Sarfaraz Khan Maintains Rigorous Practice Regime Amidst Competitive Match Hiatus

Sarfaraz Khan Maintains Rigorous Practice Regime Amidst Competitive Match Hiatus

Sarfaraz Khan, the prolific Indian domestic run-scorer, has been enduring a five-month competitive match hiatus since his Test debut against England in February. Despite his impressive performance in that match, where he scored 56 off 60 balls, Sarfaraz’s place in India’s middle order is uncertain with the return of Virat Kohli and KL Rahul.

Undeterred, Sarfaraz has maintained a rigorous practice regimen, aiming to regain his form in the ongoing Buchi Babu cricket tournament. “There is nothing called off-season for me,” he told The Indian Express. “I wake up by 4.15 am and start the day with long-distance running. I can now run 5 km in half an hour.”

Sarfaraz’s fitness regime also includes gym sessions and fielding drills in the morning, followed by batting practice in the evening. His dedication has paid off, as he has shed the bulky figure that drew criticism before his Test debut.

Despite his impressive first-class average of nearly 70, Sarfaraz had to wait until February 2024 to make his Test debut. He remains unfazed by the competition, stating, “I have zero expectations… But I’ll be ready if the opportunity arises.”

Sarfaraz’s participation in the Buchi Babu tournament and the rebranded Duleep Trophy as part of India B will provide him with much-needed match practice. “I’ve not had this level of practice in Mumbai because of the rains,” he explained. “But I don’t like batting indoors because the ball comes nicely onto the bat. It is not the case on turf because it will challenge you a lot.”

With India’s World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle resuming with two Tests against Bangladesh in September, Sarfaraz is determined to prove his worth. His unwavering work ethic and commitment to improvement make him a strong contender for a spot in the XI.

Samit Dravid Stuns with Six in Domestic T20 Match

Samit Dravid Stuns with Six in Domestic T20 Match

Rahul Dravid’s Son Samit Impresses with Stunning Six in Domestic T20 Match

Former Indian batting legend Rahul Dravid’s son, Samit, is making waves in domestic cricket with his impressive performances. The right-handed batsman has inherited his father’s cricketing skills and has been showcasing his talent in junior cricket.

Samit recently caught the attention of cricket enthusiasts with a stunning six he hit during the Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 2024 match between Mysore Warriors and Bengaluru Blasters. Facing Naveen MG in the seventh over, Samit unleashed a powerful shot that sailed between long-on and deep mid-wicket and landed in the stands.

The shot was a testament to Samit’s timing and power, and it drew applause from his teammates in the dugout. Although he was dismissed for just 7 runs in the same over, the six he hit was a clear indication of his potential.

Samit has been making a name for himself in Karnataka’s age-group teams and has participated in several notable tournaments. His performances have earned him recognition as a rising star in Indian cricket.

Like his father, Samit is a right-handed batsman who possesses a solid technique and a keen eye for the ball. He has shown the ability to play both attacking and defensive shots, and his temperament on the field is reminiscent of his father’s calm and composed demeanor.

While Samit is still in the early stages of his cricketing journey, his talent and potential are undeniable. He has the potential to follow in his father’s footsteps and become a successful cricketer in the future.

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