Adani Group Becomes Title Sponsor of Inaugural Delhi Premier League

Adani Group Becomes Title Sponsor of Inaugural Delhi Premier League

The Delhi Premier League (DPL), a highly anticipated T20 cricket league organized by the Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA), has secured Adani Group as its title sponsor for the inaugural season. This partnership marks a significant milestone for the league, aligning with its vision of promoting and developing cricket in the capital.

Adani Group, a leading Indian conglomerate, has made substantial investments in sports through its sports wing, Adani Sportsline. The group’s involvement in the Women’s Premier League (WPL), Pro Kabaddi League, and Ultimate Kho Kho League demonstrates its commitment to fostering sporting excellence. Adani Sportsline also supports renowned athletes, including chess prodigy R Praggnanandhaa.

The DPL aims to provide a platform for emerging cricket talent while delivering top-tier entertainment. The addition of Adani Group as the title sponsor further elevates the league’s prestige and its potential impact on the region’s sporting landscape.

Rohan Jaitley, president of the DDCA, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership: “We are thrilled to welcome Adani Group as the title sponsor of the Delhi Premier League. Their support is a testament to the league’s potential and our shared commitment to fostering the growth of cricket in Delhi. With Adani Group’s involvement, we are confident that the DPL will set new benchmarks in sports excellence and fan engagement.”

A spokesperson for Adani Group commented: “We are proud to associate with the Delhi Premier League T20 as its title sponsor. Cricket is a unifying force in our country, and through our partnership with the DPL T20, we aim to support the development of cricketing talent and contribute to the sport’s growth in Delhi. The Adani Group is committed to nurturing excellence and creating impactful opportunities, and we see the DPL T20 as a perfect platform to achieve these goals.”

As title sponsor, Adani Group will play a pivotal role in shaping the league’s identity, with the DPL T20 officially branded as the ‘Adani Delhi Premier League T20’. The league is scheduled to take place from August 17 to September 8, featuring six men’s and four women’s teams competing in 40 matches at the iconic Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi.

The opening match of the DPL T20 will be between Purani Dilli 6 and South Delhi Superstars on Saturday at 8:30 pm IST. All matches will be streamed live on JioCinema for free and telecasted on Sports18-2.

BCB President Nazmul Hassan Papon Offers to Resign Amidst Reform Calls

BCB President Nazmul Hassan Papon Offers to Resign Amidst Reform Calls

Amidst the political turmoil in Bangladesh, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is facing calls for reform. Board president Nazmul Hassan Papon has reportedly offered to resign to facilitate cooperation with the Muhammad Yunus-led government.

Papon, who is currently serving his fourth term as BCB president, has been in hiding in London since the unrest began. Former BCB officials and organizers have gathered at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium to demand his resignation.

According to a BCB director, Papon is willing to step down and cooperate with the government to bring about reforms in the board. The director stated that Papon is prepared to request a board meeting to accept his resignation and hold elections for a new president.

Another BCB director emphasized the need for cooperation from the interim government if the board is to be run by an elected body. The director explained that the board would need to accept Papon’s resignation and fill the vacancy through an election among the 25 board directors.

The BCB’s constitution dictates that any resignation must be submitted to the board, which will then decide whether to accept or reject it. If accepted, an election will be held to fill the vacant position.

The political instability in Bangladesh has cast a shadow over the BCB, with calls for reform growing louder. Papon’s offer to resign is seen as a step towards addressing these concerns and bringing about positive change in the board.

Steve Smith Eyes IPL Return After MLC Title Triumph

Steve Smith Eyes IPL Return After MLC Title Triumph

Steve Smith, the veteran Australian batter, has expressed his desire to return to the Indian Premier League (IPL) next year after leading Washington Freedom to their first Major League Cricket (MLC) title. At 35, Smith has not played in the IPL since 2021, having gone unsold in the last two auctions.

Despite being overlooked for the T20 World Cup and the upcoming tours of Scotland and England, Smith remains optimistic about his chances of making a comeback in the IPL. “I’d certainly love another opportunity at IPL. I’ll be throwing my name in the ring, and we’ll see how we go,” Smith said.

Smith’s standout performance in the MLC came in the final against the San Francisco Unicorns, where he scored an 88 off 52 balls against bowlers like Australian captain Pat Cummins and Pakistan’s Haris Rauf. His effort earned him the player-of-the-match award in the final.

Smith’s return to form in the MLC has raised questions about his omission from the Australian T20I team. However, Smith understands the team’s decision to focus on younger players. “In terms of international T20s, I don’t know what’s going on there,” Smith said. “They’ve obviously got some people they want to bring in, and that’s fine.”

Despite the setbacks, Smith remains focused on improving his game. “I’ll just go about my business, keep trying to improve and get better,” he said.

Smith also expressed interest in representing Australia at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, where cricket will make its debut. “That’s still a while away as well, so we’ll wait and see. Never say never,” Smith said.

Australia A Dominate India A in Second ODI, Secure Series Victory

Australia A Dominate India A in Second ODI, Secure Series Victory

Australia A’s dominant performance continued in the second one-day international against India A, securing an eight-wicket victory in Mackay. Led by Maddy Darke’s unbeaten century and Katie Mack’s half-century, Australia A chased down India A’s total of 219 with ease, taking an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.

India A’s innings got off to a shaky start as Tayla Vlaeminck dismissed Priya Punia early on. Nicola Hancock and Charli Knott then chipped away at the Indian batting lineup, removing Shweta Sehrawat and Shubha Satheesh respectively. Raghvi Bist and Tejal Hasabnis provided some resistance with a 124-run partnership, but their efforts were cut short by Parsons and Knott.

Parsons dismissed Hasabnis for 63, while Knott had Minnu Mani caught behind. Shipra Giri and Bist attempted to rebuild the innings, but Bist’s run-out in the 45th over triggered a collapse. Maitlan Brown cleaned up the tail with a triple-wicket maiden over, bowling out India A for 219 in 48 overs.

Australia A’s chase began aggressively, with Mack and Darke capitalizing on loose deliveries from Soppadhandi Yashasri and Sayali Satghare. Mack reached her half-century in the 16th over, while Darke followed suit in the 21st. Satghare eventually dismissed Mack for 68, but Darke continued to anchor the innings.

Darke’s 38-run partnership with Knott kept the asking rate under control, and Tahlia McGrath’s quickfire cameo of 24 runs off 15 balls extinguished any hopes of an Indian comeback. Darke completed her century in the 37th over, and she and McGrath remained unbeaten to guide Australia A to victory with 58 balls to spare.

The victory extends Australia A’s dominance over India A, having also swept the T20I series 3-0. The two teams will face off in the final ODI on Monday at the Gold Coast, where Australia A will aim to complete a clean sweep.

Women's T20 World Cup 2024 Faces Uncertain Future Amid Bangladesh Unrest

Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 Faces Uncertain Future Amid Bangladesh Unrest

The 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup, scheduled to be hosted by Bangladesh, is facing an uncertain future due to political unrest and security concerns. The International Cricket Council (ICC) is actively exploring alternative venues, with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) emerging as a potential replacement.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) remains determined to retain hosting rights, but the ICC is facing time constraints with the tournament set to commence on September 27th. The BCB’s request for a five-day extension to present a revised hosting plan has been denied, and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has declined to step in as host due to monsoon season and a packed cricketing calendar.

The UAE, with its favorable time zone, predictable weather conditions, and established cricketing infrastructure, has emerged as a frontrunner. The Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) is reportedly enthusiastic about hosting the tournament, further bolstering the UAE’s candidacy.

Despite the mounting pressure, the BCB remains optimistic, highlighting ongoing discussions with Bangladesh’s Army Chief regarding security assurances for the tournament. However, the recent exodus of key BCB officials, including President Nazmul Hassan, due to political unrest casts a shadow over their efforts.

Other nations, including Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka, have also expressed interest in hosting the tournament, presenting the ICC with additional options to consider. The ICC is expected to reach a decision by August 20th, coinciding with a pre-scheduled board meeting primarily focused on finalizing the terms of reference for an inquiry into the recent Men’s T20 World Cup.

With just over 50 days remaining before the tournament’s start, the ICC faces a critical decision that will significantly impact the participating teams, fans, and the future of women’s cricket.

Rohit Sharma Drives Lamborghini with Special Number Plate After Sri Lanka Tour

Rohit Sharma Drives Lamborghini with Special Number Plate After Sri Lanka Tour

Rohit Sharma Flaunts Lamborghini with Special Number Plate After Sri Lanka Tour

Indian cricket team captain Rohit Sharma has been spotted driving his luxurious Lamborghini in Mumbai after returning from the tour of Sri Lanka. The video of Rohit behind the wheel of his blue-colored Lamborghini went viral on social media, showcasing the special number plate “0264.” This number holds significance as it represents Rohit’s highest ODI score.

Despite India’s 0-2 ODI series loss in Sri Lanka, Rohit had an impressive performance as a batter. He emerged as the top run-scorer with 157 runs at an average of 52.33 and a strike rate of 141.44. Rohit notched two half-centuries, with his highest score being 64.

The Lamborghini is not the only luxury vehicle in Rohit’s collection. He also owns a BMW M5, a Mercedes-Benz GLS, and a Range Rover Vogue. His passion for cars is evident in his social media posts, where he often shares pictures of his prized possessions.

Rohit’s Lamborghini is a testament to his success and status as one of the most celebrated cricketers in the world. The special number plate adds a personal touch to the vehicle, reflecting his achievements on the field.

Ishan Kishan to Return to Domestic Red-Ball Cricket in Duleep Trophy

Ishan Kishan to Return to Domestic Red-Ball Cricket in Duleep Trophy

India’s wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan is set to make a grand return to domestic red-ball cricket in the upcoming Duleep Trophy. Kishan, who last played a domestic game in 2022, will lead Team D in the tournament, which kicks off on September 2024.

Prior to the Duleep Trophy, Kishan will lead Jharkhand in the Buchi Babu tournament. The 25-year-old last played for India in the T20I series against Australia in November 2023. He was also part of the team for the subsequent tour of South Africa but withdrew due to personal reasons.

Kishan’s absence from domestic cricket towards the end of the 2023-24 season proved costly, as he was removed from the central contract list for not prioritizing domestic cricket. BCCI secretary Jay Shah has emphasized the importance of Kishan playing domestic cricket to regain his place in the Indian side.

The Duleep Trophy marks the start of the new domestic season and will feature some of the finest players from the international circuit and emerging talents. The tournament will be played in Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh, and Bengaluru, Karnataka.

Despite reports that senior players might be picked for the Duleep Trophy, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, and Ravichandran Ashwin have not been selected. Shubman Gill, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and Shreyas Iyer will captain the four teams.

Kishan’s decision to participate in the Duleep Trophy is a significant step in his bid to regain his place in the Indian team. He has featured in two Tests, 17 ODIs, and 11 T20Is for India in 2023 and was part of the squad that reached the final of the 2023 ODI World Cup.

SA20 Teams Finalize Star-Studded Rosters for Season 3

SA20 Teams Finalize Star-Studded Rosters for Season 3

The South African20 (SA20) league is gearing up for its third season, set to take place from January 9 to February 8, 2023. The six participating teams have finalized their pre-signings and retentions, adding a star-studded roster to the tournament.

League commissioner Graeme Smith expressed his satisfaction with the caliber of players joining the SA20, stating that it reflects the league’s commitment to creating a world-class experience. Among the notable signings are Joe Root, Dinesh Karthik, Ben Stokes, Kane Williamson, Trent Boult, Rashid Khan, Devon Conway, Azmatullah Omarzai, Jonny Bairstow, and Rahmanullah Gurbaz.

Smith emphasized the importance of having both international stars and local heroes on the teams, highlighting the presence of Aiden Markram, Kagiso Rabada, and Heinrich Klaasen. He also praised the retention of domestic players, including rookies who have been promoted to fully-contracted status for Season 3.

As of now, the teams have between 14 and 17 players on their rosters, with the remaining spots to be filled at the auction in Cape Town on October 1. Each team can have a maximum of 19 players, including one wildcard and one rookie player. Of the remaining 17, a minimum of ten must be South African, while a maximum of seven can be from overseas.

The SA20 2023 squads are as follows:

* Durban’s Super Giants: Brandon King, Quinton De Kock, Naveen ul Haq, Kane Williamson, Chris Woakes, Prenelan Subrayen, Dwaine Pretorius, Keshav Maharaj, Noor Ahmed, Heinrich Klaasen, Jon-Jon Smuts, Wiaan Mulder, Junior Dala, Bryce Parsons, Matthew Breetzke, Jason Smith, Marcus Stoinis
* Joburg Super Kings: Faf Du Plessis, Moeen Ali, Jonny Bairstow, Maheesh Theekshana, Devon Conway, Gerald Coetzee, David Wiese, Leus Du Plooy, Lizaad Williams, Nandre Burger, Donavon Ferreira, Imran Tahir, Sibonelo Makhanya, Tabraiz Shamsi
* MI Cape Town: Rashid Khan, Ben Stokes, Kagiso Rabada, Trent Boult, Azmatullah Omarzai, Dewald Brevis, Ryan Rickelton, George Linde, Nuwan Thushara, Connor Esterhuizen, Delano Potgieter, Rassie Van Der Dussen, Thomas Kaber, Chris Benjamin
* Pretoria Capitals: Anrich Nortje, Jimmy Neesham, Will Jacks, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Will Smeed, Migael Pretorius, Rilee Rossouw, Eathan Bosch, Wayne Parnell, Senuran Muthusamy, Kyle Verreynne, Daryn Dupavillon, Steve Stolk, Tiaan van Vuuren
* Paarl Royals: David Miller, Mujeeb Ur-Rahman, Sam Hain, Joe Root, Dinesh Karthik, Kwena Maphaka, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Bjorn Fortuin, Lungi Ngidi, Mitchell Van Buuren, Keith Dudgeon, Nqaba Peter, Andile Phehlukwayo, Codi Yusuf, John Turner, Dayyaan Galiem, Jacob Bethell
* Sunrisers Eastern Cape: Aiden Markram, Zak Crawley, Roelof van der Merwe, Liam Dawson, Ottneil Baartman, Marco Jansen, Beyers Swanepoel, Caleb Seleka, Tristan Stubbs, Jordan Hermann, Patrick Kruger, Craig Overton, Tom Abell, Simon Harmer, Andile Simelane, David Bedingham

The schedule of matches for the SA20 2023 season will be announced at a later date.

Gautam Gambhir's Mixed Start as India's Head Coach

Gautam Gambhir’s Mixed Start as India’s Head Coach

Gautam Gambhir’s tenure as India’s head coach commenced with a mixed bag of results during the Sri Lanka tour. While the team emerged victorious in the T20I series, they succumbed to defeat in the ODIs despite fielding star players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.

Gambhir’s appointment on July 9, 2024, marked a departure from Rahul Dravid’s tenure, which concluded after the T20 World Cup in June. Prior to the official announcement, rumors circulated about a potential hybrid coaching model, with different coaches assigned to different formats.

However, the BCCI opted for a traditional approach. BCCI Secretary Jay Shah explained the rationale behind Gambhir’s appointment as all-format coach: “We must respect the coach we hire. If Gautam Gambhir expresses interest in coaching in all three formats, who am I to restrict him? Approximately 70% of the players remain consistent across all formats.”

Shah also emphasized the availability of capable backups for the head coach role: “We have coaches from the NCA. VVS Laxman stepped in when Rahul Dravid took a break.”

Gambhir’s maiden Test assignment as head coach will be a two-match series against Bangladesh next month. Notably, key players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ravichandran Ashwin, and Jasprit Bumrah will not participate in the Duleep Trophy.

With the Border Gavaskar Trophy approaching later this year, selectors will closely monitor the performances of players competing in the tournament.

Dinesh Karthik Aspires to Swap Lives with AR Rahman for Creative Inspiration

Dinesh Karthik Aspires to Swap Lives with AR Rahman for Creative Inspiration

Dinesh Karthik Expresses Admiration for AR Rahman, Aspires to Swap Lives for a Week

Former Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Dinesh Karthik has recently retired from all forms of cricket, but his passion for the game and his creative spirit remain unyielding. In a recent episode of Cricbuzz’s video series ‘HeyCB,’ Karthik revealed his admiration for legendary music composer and singer AR Rahman and expressed his desire to swap lives with him for a week.

When asked by a fan who he would like to swap lives with for a week, Karthik promptly replied, “I would love to swap lives with AR Rahman.” He went on to explain that he has been a huge fan of Rahman’s music for years and has never had the opportunity to meet him.

Karthik expressed his fascination with Rahman’s creative process and his ability to consistently produce exceptional music for nearly three decades. “I would love to go into his brain and see what keeps him ticking,” he said.

However, Karthik acknowledged that it would be a challenge for him to spend sleepless nights creating new music compositions, as Rahman is known to do. “I have heard he works a lot through the night. That will be a challenge, but I still won’t mind getting into his brain,” he said with a smile.

Karthik announced his retirement from cricket in June 2023 after a successful career that spanned 26 Tests, 94 ODIs, and 60 T20Is for India. He is now actively involved as a commentator and expert, sharing his insights on the game.

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