Nathan Lyon's 5-0 Prediction for BGT Series Draws Criticism from Basit Ali

Nathan Lyon’s 5-0 Prediction for BGT Series Draws Criticism from Basit Ali

Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali has strongly criticized Australian spinner Nathan Lyon’s bold prediction that Australia will sweep the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series against India by a 5-0 margin. Lyon’s comments, made on the Willow Talk podcast, have sparked controversy and drawn a sharp response from Ali.

Ali dismissed Lyon’s prediction as “stupid,” arguing that such remarks should not come from a cricketer. He pointed out that India has dominated Australia in the past two BGT series and that Lyon’s comments were disrespectful. Ali urged Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin to respond to Lyon’s challenge and predict a 5-0 victory for India.

Despite the BGT series being several months away, players from both sides have begun expressing their excitement and making bold predictions. While Lyon believes Australia will cruise to victory, his compatriot Travis Head has acknowledged the strength of the Indian team. Head stated that India is “extremely difficult” to play against and that he is looking forward to contributing to Australia’s success in the upcoming series.

The Border-Gavaskar series between India and Australia is one of the most highly anticipated events in the cricketing calendar. The first Test will be played in Perth on November 22, and the series is expected to be fiercely competitive.

Virat Kohli Fulfills Fan's Wish, Signs Autograph on Hand-Painted Poster

Virat Kohli Fulfills Fan’s Wish, Signs Autograph on Hand-Painted Poster

Virat Kohli, the former Indian cricket captain, has once again demonstrated his heartwarming nature by fulfilling a fan’s wish. In a video that has gone viral on social media, Kohli is seen sitting in the team bus when he notices a fan holding a hand-painted poster of him. The fan is desperately trying to get Kohli’s attention for an autograph on the image.

Kohli, upon noticing the fan’s request, gestures for him to wait. He then asks one of his staff members to bring the poster to him so that he can sign it. The video has garnered immense appreciation from fans, who have praised Kohli’s humility and kindness.

Kohli’s gesture is a testament to his strong connection with his fans. He has always been known for his approachable and down-to-earth nature, both on and off the field. This incident further solidifies his reputation as a true role model for aspiring cricketers and fans alike.

Kohli’s return to the Indian Test squad comes after a brief break from cricket. He had been on a family vacation in London and was exempted from the Duleep Trophy, where many of India’s Test regulars participated. However, Rohit Sharma, Ravindra Jadeja, and Ravichandran Ashwin were also exempted from the season-opening domestic red-ball competition.

Kohli’s presence in the Test squad is a significant boost for India as they prepare for the two-Test home series against Bangladesh, beginning September 19. The series will be a crucial test for India, who are looking to maintain their dominance in Test cricket.

Jasprit Bumrah: India's Most Valuable Test Bowler

Jasprit Bumrah: India’s Most Valuable Test Bowler

Jasprit Bumrah’s exceptional bowling prowess has made him the most talked-about cricketer in India, a nation obsessed with batters. His unique bowling style, characterized by upper body strength, torque, and a powerful forearm, allows him to neutralize the influence of the pitch.

Bumrah’s return to international cricket in August 2022 marked a resurgence in his career. He has been rapid, incisive, and often unplayable, elevating his threat levels to unprecedented heights. His pace remains undiminished, his craft has become more polished, and his repertoire has expanded.

In the recent World Cup, Bumrah was India’s battering ram, delivering one match-turning spell after another. His economy and penetration were remarkable, and he was instrumental in India’s triumph. His sensational final two overs in the final, where he conceded only six runs and claimed the crucial wicket of Marco Jansen, showcased his ability to exert pressure and strangle run-chases.

Bumrah’s hunger for Test cricket is evident, and he is eager to play as much as possible. India’s head coach, Gautam Gambhir, has hailed him as the best bowler in the world, praising his performance and his desire to make a difference at any stage of the game.

Bumrah’s importance to India’s Test ambitions cannot be overstated. He will be crucial in Australia, where his ability to take wickets on any surface will be invaluable. The leadership group will want Bumrah at his fierce, fearsome best as India chases an unprecedented hat-trick of Test series triumphs Down Under.

Australia recognizes Bumrah as their primary threat, but even they may struggle to contain him. His command over his multi-faceted craft makes him a complete fast bowler, equally adept with the new and old ball. He uses reverse swing with spectacular effect, targeting both toes and stumps while also inducing outside edges from right-handed batters.

Bumrah’s ability to control the game with three-over bursts is another asset for India. The pressure he imposes often translates to wickets at the other end. He is chomping at the bit to have a go at Bangladesh, but a lack of game-time since June may be a concern. However, his efficacy is unlikely to be significantly impacted.

Indian Team Targeted on Australian Tours, Alleges Aakash Chopra

Indian Team Targeted on Australian Tours, Alleges Aakash Chopra

The rivalry between India and Australia in cricket is one of the most intense in the sport, and it’s set to reach new heights when the two teams face off in a five-Test series Down Under for the Border Gavaskar Trophy, beginning this November. The build-up to the much-awaited clash is fast gaining momentum, and it has been further fueled by former India opener Aakash Chopra, who has exposed how Indian team and players are targeted on Australian tours.

Sharing a story from his commentary stint during India’s 2018-19 tour, Chopra not only criticised the actions but also revealed how specific portions of play from live broadcast are clipped and shared with the Australian media to bring the Indian players into disrepute.

India registered a historic first ever Test series win in Australia under Virat Kohli’s captaincy, and the story Chopra shared on the ‘2 Sloggers’ podcast is from the second Test of the series in Perth. Chopra claimed that the broadcasters amplified the stump microphone to highlight a heated on-field exchange between Ishant Sharma and Ravindra Jadeja in an attempt to tarnish the image of the visiting team.

Chopra was in the commentary box when the said incident happened. “They (Australian media) used to release videos. They did it in front of me when Ishant Sharma and Ravindra Jadeja had a heated exchange with each other while standing in the 30-yard circle. The broadcasters amped up the stump mic as they were abusing each other,” Chopra said on the podcast.

“They cut the clip and shared it with the press in front of me. After that, when we were talking off the field, I was like, ‘What are we actually trying to achieve because it’s nothing’,’ the 47-year-old former opener added.

Chopra went on to add that Ricky Ponting, who was present in the commentary box when this happened, first condemned what he saw but said something exactly the opposite as soon as the former Australia captain went on air. “Ricky said they are ‘Making a mountain out of a molehill’. The moment he went on air, he tore into the Indian team, and I was stunned that he had just said something else a few minutes back,” Chopra recalled.

Chopra’s revelations have sparked outrage among Indian fans and former players, who have accused the Australian media of bias and unfair treatment of the Indian team. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has also taken note of the matter and is expected to raise it with the International Cricket Council (ICC).

The upcoming Border Gavaskar Trophy series is expected to be one of the most fiercely contested in recent memory, and the off-field drama is only adding to the anticipation. It remains to be seen how the Indian team will respond to the allegations of unfair treatment, but one thing is for sure: the rivalry between India and Australia is set to reach new heights in the coming weeks.

India vs. Bangladesh: Test Cricket Returns to Chennai with Gautam Gambhir at the Helm

India vs. Bangladesh: Test Cricket Returns to Chennai with Gautam Gambhir at the Helm

The Indian Premier League’s adrenaline rush and the historic ICC T20 World Cup triumph have ignited a surge of energy within India’s leading cricketers. As the nation transitions from the thrill of limited-overs cricket to the slow-burn intensity of Test cricket, the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai will host the opening Test of the two-match series between India and Bangladesh, commencing on Thursday.

Rohit Sharma’s men last played a Test against England in Dharamshala in March, and now they must reset their playing style as they prepare for a series of crucial encounters against Bangladesh, New Zealand, and Australia. These games are part of the World Test Championship, which India currently leads, making them critical for the team’s progress.

The upcoming clashes will also mark the beginning of Gautam Gambhir’s era as coach. The former India opener, who honed his leadership skills during the ODIs in Sri Lanka, now faces the daunting task of guiding a squad in transition towards greater glory. Stepping into Rahul Dravid’s shoes, Gambhir must steer the team to higher heights.

India, playing on home soil, will enter the series as the favorite. However, Bangladesh, fresh from their 2-0 Test series victory over Pakistan in Rawalpindi, is eager to prove their mettle against their larger neighbor. From their independence in 1971 to their Test debut in 2000, Bangladesh has always found India lending a helping hand. Yet, the desire to demonstrate their equality fuels the visitors’ determination.

While Dhaka recovers from political turmoil, Najmul Hossain Shanto’s men continue to carry the weight of hope on their shoulders. Rawalpindi was a testament to their potential, but Chennai and Kanpur may pose greater challenges.

India’s return to home soil is marked by the remarkable comeback of Rishabh Pant, who has recovered from a life-threatening accident. Virat Kohli, who took a paternity break and missed the series against England, is also back in the mix. K.L. Rahul’s return adds to Rohit’s experienced core, providing him with a solid foundation to rely on.

With Jasprit Bumrah as the spearhead and R. Ashwin leading the spin department, the Indian skipper has ample resources at his disposal. The surface is expected to favor both fast and slow bowlers, ensuring an intriguing contest.

For Bangladesh, a glimpse of the Bay of Bengal upon arrival and the proximity of Greams Road, with its distinct Bengali vibe, may evoke a sense of familiarity. However, having never defeated India in a Test while being a formidable opponent in ODIs, especially during the 2007 World Cup in the Caribbean, the Tigers face a formidable challenge.

Veterans Mushfiqur Rahim and Shakib Al Hasan know what it takes to surprise India, but Bangladesh will need contributions from others like Litton Das, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, and Taskin Ahmed to embody that spirit.

Sachin Baby's Century Powers Aries Kollam Sailors to KCL Title

Sachin Baby’s Century Powers Aries Kollam Sailors to KCL Title

Sachin Baby’s masterful century propelled Aries Kollam Sailors to a resounding six-wicket victory over Calicut Globstars in the inaugural edition of the KCL at the Greenfield stadium.

Baby’s unbeaten 105 off 54 deliveries, studded with eight fours and seven sixes, was the cornerstone of the Sailors’ successful chase of 214. His 114-run third-wicket partnership with Vatsal Govind (45) proved decisive in turning the tide in favor of the Sailors.

The Globstars had earlier posted a competitive 213/6, thanks to a blistering start by captain Rohan Kunnummal and a late surge by M. Ajinas. Kunnummal’s 51 off 30 balls, including two sixes, set the tone for the innings, while Ajinas’ 56 off 33 balls, featuring three sixes and a four, provided a late boost.

However, the Sailors’ bowlers, led by leg-spinner Midhun (2/42), kept the Globstars in check, restricting them to just 23 runs in the final three overs.

In the chase, the Sailors lost openers Abhishek Nair and Arun Polouse early, but Baby’s unwavering presence at the crease steadied the innings. He manipulated the field placements with ease, punishing loose deliveries with boundaries and sixes.

Govind provided valuable support, attacking the Globstars spinners and contributing 45 runs. The pair’s partnership laid the foundation for the Sailors’ victory.

Despite the loss of Govind, Baby continued to dominate the bowling, finding boundaries at will. He reached his century with a boundary off Akhil Dev in the 19th over, sparking jubilation among the Sailors’ camp.

The Sailors eventually reached their target with 19.1 overs to spare, securing the inaugural KCL title. Baby’s match-winning performance earned him the Player of the Match award.

Pakistan Levels T20I Series with 13-Run Victory over South Africa

Pakistan Levels T20I Series with 13-Run Victory over South Africa

Pakistan’s women’s cricket team displayed a remarkable performance in the second T20I against South Africa, leveling the series with a 13-run victory in Multan.

Pakistan’s batting lineup showcased a collective effort, with Muneeba Ali leading the charge with a blistering 45 off 34 deliveries. Her innings included six boundaries and two maximums, providing a solid foundation for the team. Sidra Amin contributed with a steady 37, while captain Fatima Sana and Nida Dar chipped in with valuable runs. Aliya Riyaz’s late cameo of 16 off 3 balls propelled Pakistan to a competitive total of 181 for 4.

South Africa’s chase got off to a promising start, with Laura Wolvaardt and Anneke Bosch forming a 50-run partnership. However, Pakistan’s left-arm spinners, Nashra Sandhu and Sadia Iqbal, proved to be a formidable force. Sandhu dismissed Wolvaardt for 36, while Iqbal accounted for Bosch and Nadine de Klerk in quick succession.

With South Africa needing 94 runs off 42 balls, Sune Luus and Chloe Tryon stepped up with an impressive 80-run stand. Luus remained unbeaten on 53 off 29 deliveries, while Tryon contributed a quickfire 30 off 16 balls. Despite their valiant efforts, they were unable to guide South Africa to victory.

Sandhu finished with impressive figures of 2 for 20, while Iqbal claimed 2 for 27. Their economical bowling and crucial wickets played a pivotal role in Pakistan’s triumph.

Sunil Gavaskar: Introductions Still a Source of Amusement for Cricket Legend

Sunil Gavaskar: Introductions Still a Source of Amusement for Cricket Legend

Sunil Gavaskar, the legendary Indian cricketer, believes that even at the age of 75, he still requires an introduction at events celebrating his life and achievements. Despite retiring from the game 40 years ago, Gavaskar appreciates being introduced, as it allows him to hear positive things said about him.

During the official release of a book titled ‘Sunny G’, which compiles anecdotal accounts about Gavaskar from his friends, family, and fellow cricketers, the Little Master shared a few amusing incidents related to introductions.

He recounted a story about his uncle Madhav Mantri, who played Test cricket for India, and how a school principal introduced him based on the students’ favorite cricketer. “This takes me back to an incident which concerned my uncle. Mantri, as those of you who follow the game know, played four Test matches for India and he was called for a school sports day presentation. And the principal of the school asked him how do I introduce you?”

“And he said ‘look, none of these boys know me. I played many years ago, I retired many years ago. So you just ask all these people, all the boys, who is your favourite cricketer is and then say I’m his uncle.”

“The principal said, it’s a very good idea. So, at the assembly where all the boys were there, he asked the boys, ‘before I introduce the chief guest here today who’s come to distribute the prizes, I want to ask all of you who is your favorite cricketer?”

“And in one voice they all said Kapil Dev. So, you can imagine what happened with the introduction,” said Gavaskar while extracting pearls of laughter from the gathering.

Gavaskar also shared his own experiences from his early days in the Indian team. In his debut series against the West Indies, he was fortunate enough to be dropped by Garfield Sobers twice, which allowed him to score crucial runs and contribute to India’s first-ever Test victory against the West Indies.

However, during the celebrations, the master of ceremonies introduced Gavaskar as “the person who Gary Sobers dropped three, four times” instead of using his name. Similarly, after India’s first series victory against England, Gavaskar was introduced as “the man who John Snow shoved to the ground” due to an on-field incident involving the England fast bowler.

Throughout his early career, Gavaskar was often introduced as Madhav Mantri’s nephew, and later, after a lean period, as Gundappa Vishwanath’s brother-in-law.

Gavaskar advised readers to take some of the incidents mentioned in the book with a pinch of salt, as people tend to exaggerate things a little. Nonetheless, the book offers a fresh perspective on the life of one of cricket’s greatest legends through the eyes of those who have known him for decades.

Kent Fight to Save Match Against Nottinghamshire Despite Second-Innings Deficit

Kent Fight to Save Match Against Nottinghamshire Despite Second-Innings Deficit

Kent’s hopes of avoiding relegation from the Vitality County Championship took a further blow on day two of their match against Nottinghamshire at Canterbury. Despite a valiant effort in their second innings, they still trail by 123 runs with seven overs remaining.

Nottinghamshire resumed on 393 for 6 and were all out for 433 early in the morning session. Nathan Gilchrist finished with 4 for 101, but Farhan Ahmed’s 4 for 37 proved decisive as Kent were dismissed for 225 in their first innings.

Joey Evison top-scored with 76 against his former side, while the extras column provided the second-highest contribution with 43. Kent were forced to follow on, and the seven bonus points accumulated by Notts mean that even if Kent pull off an improbable victory, Notts would only need a single point from their final fixture against Warwickshire to secure Kent’s relegation.

Kent’s second innings started poorly, with Ben Compton dismissed for 4 and Tawanda Muyeye for 10. However, Muyeye and Evison put on 63 for the third wicket before Ahmed struck twice in quick succession to remove Finch and Parkinson.

Evison eventually fell for 76, and Kent were forced to follow on for the sixth time this season. However, they showed more resilience in their second innings, with Muyeye reaching 55 not out and Compton on 22 not out when bad light stopped play.

With the light deteriorating, play was abandoned at 6.06pm, leaving Kent still needing 123 runs to avoid an innings defeat.

Patel's Century Guides Surrey to Commanding Lead Over Durham

Patel’s Century Guides Surrey to Commanding Lead Over Durham

Ryan Patel’s masterful 134 propelled Surrey to a commanding 415 in their first innings, establishing a significant 153-run lead over Durham at the Kia Oval. Patel’s marathon innings, spanning nearly five hours, anchored Surrey’s batting and proved pivotal in their dominance.

Durham’s fielding woes compounded their struggles, with Patel benefiting from dropped catches on 19 and 70. The 26-year-old batsman seized the opportunity, punishing the opposition with three sixes and 14 fours. Tom Lawes, the talented 21-year-old all-rounder, provided valuable support with a career-best 58, including a six and six fours.

Surrey’s innings began promisingly with an 87-run opening stand between Rory Burns and Dom Sibley. However, Durham’s bowlers gradually tightened their grip, with Bas de Leede emerging as the standout performer. De Leede’s incisive seam bowling accounted for four wickets, including the crucial dismissals of Sibley and Burns.

Despite the setbacks, Patel and Ben Foakes steadied the innings with a 47-run partnership. Foakes’ departure for 17 triggered a mini-collapse, with Dan Lawrence and Sam Curran falling in quick succession. Tom Curran and Patel then combined for a 63-run stand, but Curran’s dismissal to Parkinson left Surrey vulnerable.

Patel’s resilience shone through as he survived another dropped catch on 70 and guided Surrey into the lead. Lawes joined Patel in a crucial eighth-wicket partnership, adding 92 runs in 19 overs. Lawes’ confident strokeplay, including a six and six fours, further extended Surrey’s advantage.

Durham’s bowlers fought valiantly, but Patel’s brilliance and Lawes’ support proved too much to overcome. McAlindon’s dropped catch off Patel’s hook shot proved costly, allowing the batsman to reach 80 and set the stage for Surrey’s dominance.

In Durham’s brief second innings, nightwatchman Callum Parkinson was superbly caught by Conor McKerr at third slip off Dan Worrall’s first delivery. Durham finished the day on 1 for 1, trailing by 152 runs.

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