Rohit Sharma's Forgetfulness: A Quirky Trait Humored by Teammates

Rohit Sharma’s Forgetfulness: A Quirky Trait Humored by Teammates

Rohit Sharma’s Forgetfulness: A Quirky Trait Humored by Teammates

Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma has become renowned for his amusing tendency to forget things, a trait that has been the subject of lighthearted banter among his teammates. Virat Kohli, in particular, has often poked fun at Rohit’s forgetfulness, highlighting his habit of misplacing items.

In a recent video chat shared by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Virat and Gautam Gambhir engaged in a humorous exchange ahead of the first Test against Bangladesh. Gambhir asked Virat, “So Virat, the next guest is Rohit. What do you want me to ask? What should be the first question?”

Virat, with a mischievous grin, suggested, “I think it is a very simple question to Rohit. Ke subah bheege badam khate ho ki nahi (Do you eat soaked almonds in the morning?).”

This prompted laughter from Gambhir, who added, “That will help Rohit remember to come in at 11 am, not at night.” He continued, “Ke subah 11 bhaje ke jagah, raat ko 11 bhaje na aa jaye (So that he comes in at 11 am and not 11 pm).”

“So, Rohit, that’s the first question for you,” Virat quipped.

Rohit’s forgetfulness has become a running joke within the Indian cricket team, with teammates often teasing him about it. However, it is clear that this quirk is not taken seriously and is instead a source of amusement for the team.

Ricky Ponting Appointed Head Coach of Punjab Kings for IPL 2025

Ricky Ponting Appointed Head Coach of Punjab Kings for IPL 2025

Ricky Ponting, the legendary Australian cricketer, has been appointed as the head coach of Punjab Kings (PBKS) for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season. This move comes after Ponting’s departure from Delhi Capitals (DC) in July 2024, where he served as head coach for seven years.

Ponting has signed a multi-year contract with PBKS, a franchise that has struggled to find success in recent seasons. He will be the sixth head coach in seven seasons for Punjab, who finished ninth in the 2024 IPL season.

Ponting’s immediate task will be to identify players to retain for the upcoming season, as the IPL is yet to finalize retention rules. Key performers for Punjab last season included Harshal Patel, Shashank Singh, and Ashutosh Sharma. The franchise also boasts a strong squad with Arshdeep Singh, Jitesh Sharma, Rahul Chahar, and overseas stars Sam Curran, Liam Livingstone, Johnny Bairstow, and Kagiso Rabada.

With Shikhar Dhawan recently retiring, Punjab will also be looking for a new captain. Ponting’s experience as a successful captain with the Australian national team and Mumbai Indians will be invaluable in this regard.

Ponting has been involved in the IPL since its inception in 2008, first as a player for Kolkata Knight Riders and Mumbai Indians. He stepped down as Mumbai’s captain in 2013, paving the way for Rohit Sharma to take over. Mumbai won the title that year, with Ponting continuing in an advisory role in 2014 and serving as head coach for two seasons in 2015 and 2016.

In 2018, Ponting took charge as head coach of DC, leading them to the playoffs for three consecutive seasons between 2019 and 2021. DC also reached their first IPL final in 2020 under Ponting’s guidance.

Ponting’s appointment as PBKS head coach is a significant move for the franchise, as they look to turn their fortunes around and challenge for the IPL title. His experience, leadership, and tactical acumen will be crucial in helping Punjab achieve their goals.

Bangladesh Women's T20 World Cup Squad Overhauled, Rumana Ahmed Dropped

Bangladesh Women’s T20 World Cup Squad Overhauled, Rumana Ahmed Dropped

Bangladesh’s Women’s T20 World Cup squad for 2024 has undergone significant changes, with five players dropped and five new faces added. The most notable omission is experienced allrounder Rumana Ahmed, who has been replaced by uncapped top-order batter Taj Nehar.

The recall of Sobhana Mostary, Shathi Rani, Fahima Khatun, and Disha Biswas adds experience and depth to the squad. Fahima, a veteran legspinner, has played in five T20 World Cups, while Rani, an opening batter, was the leading run-scorer in the recent Women’s National Cricket League (NCL) T20 competition.

Rumana’s exclusion is attributed to her lack of aggressive batting in recent matches. Chief selector Sajjad Ahmed explained that the team needs batters who can score quickly in the T20 format.

Mostary’s selection, despite her recent struggles, is due to the lack of options at the No. 3 position. “She is a prospect, but she hasn’t performed up to the mark,” said Sajjad. “We don’t have a lot of options at No. 3.”

The other players dropped from the squad are Rubya Haider, Shorifa Khatun, Sabikun Nahar, and Ishma Tanjim.

Bangladesh’s T20 World Cup campaign begins on October 3 against Scotland. The team will be hoping to improve on their performance in the 2023 edition, where they failed to progress beyond the group stage.

India Focuses on Spin Batting Ahead of Bangladesh Test Series

India Focuses on Spin Batting Ahead of Bangladesh Test Series

India’s upcoming two-match Test series against Bangladesh, commencing on Thursday, presents a crucial opportunity for the hosts to address their recent batting vulnerabilities against spin bowling. Despite boasting an impressive home record of 40-4 over the past decade, India’s performance against spin has raised concerns.

With a packed Test season ahead, including 10 matches and a potential berth in the World Test Championship final, India must prioritize improving their spin-bowling prowess. Bangladesh, fresh from a 2-0 series triumph over Pakistan, will pose a formidable challenge.

Key Indian batters have struggled against spin in recent years. Virat Kohli’s average against spin has plummeted to 30 in 15 Tests since 2021, while Rohit Sharma’s has dropped to 44 over the last three years. KL Rahul has also faced difficulties, averaging a mere 23.40 against spin in his last five home Tests.

Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate has emphasized the need to refocus on this area, particularly after India’s struggles against Sri Lanka’s spinners in a recent ODI series.

Bangladesh’s spin attack, led by Shakib Al Hasan, Taijul Islam, and Mehidy Hasan Miraz, will test India’s batting lineup. However, Rishabh Pant has a strong average of 70 against spin in his last five matches, while Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal have shown promise, albeit against a less experienced England spin attack.

India’s bowling lineup, featuring Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, R Ashwin, and Ravindra Jadeja, appears formidable. The team management will consider whether to include a third seamer like Akash Deep or Yash Dayal or to opt for a third spinner, with Kuldeep Yadav or Axar Patel as options. Patel’s inclusion could also strengthen the lower-order batting.

New head coach Gautam Gambhir will be eager to start his tenure on a positive note. After a mixed result in the white-ball format in Sri Lanka, Gambhir will be keen for a strong start in Test cricket.

This series will serve as a litmus test for India’s batting lineup and set the tone for their long Test season ahead.

Australia Fields Strongest XI for New Zealand Series Ahead of T20 World Cup

Australia Fields Strongest XI for New Zealand Series Ahead of T20 World Cup

Australia’s women’s cricket team is gearing up for the upcoming T20 World Cup by fielding their strongest XI in a three-match series against New Zealand. Captain Alyssa Healy emphasized the importance of consistency in their lineup, stating that they have been settled in the T20 format for a long time.

While Australia experimented with their lineup during their Bangladesh tour, Healy believes it’s crucial to establish a stable XI leading into the World Cup. She acknowledged the temptation to unleash the pace duo of Darcie Brown and Tayla Vlaeminck, but noted that it would require careful consideration of the team’s balance.

New Zealand, on the other hand, is looking to bounce back from a disappointing tour of England, where they lost eight consecutive matches. Captain Sophie Devine expressed confidence in her team’s ability to learn from their mistakes and move forward. She highlighted the return of pace bowler Rosemary Mair, who missed the England tour due to injury.

Both Healy and Devine welcomed the ICC’s announcement of increased prize money for the T20 World Cup, recognizing it as a significant step forward for women’s cricket. Healy stated that it’s an amazing opportunity for the game to be recognized and appreciated.

As the teams prepare for the World Cup, the series against New Zealand will provide valuable experience and allow them to fine-tune their strategies. Australia will aim to maintain their dominance, while New Zealand will seek to regain their form and prove their mettle against one of the world’s top teams.

Gautam Gambhir: Bumrah Best Bowler, India to Play Like Champions Against Bangladesh

Gautam Gambhir: Bumrah Best Bowler, India to Play Like Champions Against Bangladesh

Gautam Gambhir, the newly appointed head coach of the Indian cricket team, addressed the media in a press conference ahead of the first Test match against Bangladesh. The press conference provided insights into Gambhir’s coaching philosophy, the team’s preparations, and his relationship with captain Rohit Sharma.

Gambhir emphasized the importance of bowlers in the modern game, stating that Jasprit Bumrah is the best fast bowler in the world. He credited Bumrah, along with Ravichandran Ashwin, Mohammed Shami, and Ravindra Jadeja, for transforming India into a “bowlers’ game.”

The head coach also expressed his respect for Bangladesh but asserted that India will approach the series with the mindset of a champion side. He believes that the team’s best style is the one that wins.

Gambhir’s first Test series as head coach will be a significant milestone in his career. He previously led the team in T20I and ODI series against Sri Lanka.

During the press conference, Gambhir and former India captain Virat Kohli discussed their on-field altercations in the past. Gambhir jokingly deflected Kohli’s question about how altercations affect his performance, saying that Kohli has had more altercations than him.

Kohli and Gambhir have put their past differences aside and are now working together to achieve success for the Indian team. They have “put an end to all the masala” surrounding their rumored rift.

Rohit Sharma, the Indian captain, acknowledged that Gambhir’s coaching style is different from his predecessor, Rahul Dravid. However, he emphasized that he has a good understanding with Gambhir and that the new coaching staff brings a different perspective.

Duleep Trophy Final Round Resumes, Iyer and Samson Aim to Impress

Duleep Trophy Final Round Resumes, Iyer and Samson Aim to Impress

The Duleep Trophy, India’s premier domestic red-ball tournament, is set to resume its final round on Thursday, September 19, 2024, providing another opportunity for aspiring cricketers to showcase their skills. Unlike previous editions, this year’s tournament will not feature any knockout games, with the team accumulating the highest points crowned as champions.

Currently, India C, led by Ruturaj Gaikwad, sits atop the standings with nine points from two matches. They will face Mayank Agarwal’s India A, while Abhimanyu Easwaran’s India B will take on India D, captained by Shreyas Iyer.

Iyer, who was overlooked for the recent Bangladesh series, will be eager to prove his worth. However, his team has yet to earn a point in the tournament, putting pressure on him to deliver an inspiring performance.

The performance of India D batter Sanju Samson and pacer Arshdeep Singh will also be closely monitored by the selectors. In the India B camp, Rinku Singh will aim to make a significant contribution after a disappointing outing in the previous game.

The India A versus India C contest will see the selectors expecting more runs from Agarwal, Riyan Parag, and Sai Sudharsan. Parag has shown promise with the bat but needs to spend more time in the middle.

Pacer Prasidh Krishna, returning from injury, will be looking to bowl a substantial number of overs, while Shams Mulani will hope to repeat his match-winning effort in the prevailing conditions. Ishan Kishan, who made a memorable return to red-ball cricket with a century for India C, will need another impressive knock to garner further attention from the selectors.

Duleep Mendis: The Only Batter to Score Identical Centuries in Both Innings of a Test Match

Duleep Mendis: The Only Batter to Score Identical Centuries in Both Innings of a Test Match

Duleep Mendis, the former Sri Lankan wicketkeeper-batsman, etched his name into the annals of Test cricket history with an extraordinary feat: scoring identical centuries in both innings of a Test match. This remarkable achievement, accomplished against Sunil Gavaskar’s India in September 1982 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Madras (now Chennai), remains unparalleled in the sport.

Mendis’ first innings century was a masterful display of technique and determination. Facing a formidable Indian bowling attack, he patiently constructed his innings, reaching the three-figure mark with a well-timed boundary. His second innings effort was equally impressive, as he mirrored his first innings performance with another century, scoring exactly 105 runs.

This unique achievement made Mendis the first, and still the only, batter in Test cricket to score identical hundreds in both innings of the same match. It showcased his exceptional consistency and unwavering focus, qualities that defined his illustrious career.

Mendis’ twin centuries were the defining moment of the match, which ended in a draw. His individual brilliance not only earned him accolades but also became a historic milestone in the sport. It remains a testament to his skill and the enduring legacy he left on the game.

Beyond his historic feat, Mendis was a formidable batsman and a respected captain. He played 24 Tests for Sri Lanka between 1975 and 1989, accumulating 1,329 runs at an average of 31.64. His four centuries and eight fifties in Test cricket further cemented his status as a world-class batsman.

Mendis’ bold batting style and astute captaincy skills made him a key figure in Sri Lanka’s formative years on the international cricket stage. He also represented his country in 79 One Day Internationals, amassing 1527 runs at an average of 23.49.

After his playing career, Mendis transitioned into coaching and administrative roles, making significant contributions to the growth and development of cricket in Sri Lanka. His legacy extends beyond the boundary ropes, as he continues to inspire and mentor young cricketers.

Gambhir and Kohli: From Rivals to Colleagues in Candid Interview

Gambhir and Kohli: From Rivals to Colleagues in Candid Interview

Gautam Gambhir and Virat Kohli: A Candid Conversation

Ahead of the Test series against Bangladesh, Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir and batting icon Virat Kohli engaged in a lighthearted interview, revealing their camaraderie and mutual respect.

Despite their past competitive rivalry on the field, Gambhir and Kohli have set aside their differences for the betterment of the Indian team. In the interview, they discussed the impact of on-field banter on their performance.

Kohli, known for his fiery nature, admitted to having more altercations than Gambhir. He wondered if such confrontations could distract him or motivate him.

Gambhir, with a chuckle, suggested that Kohli was better equipped to answer the question. Kohli, in turn, expressed his desire for someone to agree with his perspective.

“I am only looking for someone who agrees with what I have to say. Not saying that it is wrong. At least someone should say, yes this is what happens,” Kohli said.

The interview highlighted the evolution of their relationship, from fierce competitors to supportive colleagues. Both players were part of Team India’s ODI World Cup victory in 2011, and their shared experiences have forged a bond between them.

Gambhir praised Kohli’s leadership qualities, saying, “Virat has been a fantastic leader. He has taken Indian cricket to new heights.”

Kohli, in turn, acknowledged Gambhir’s contributions as a coach, saying, “Gautam has brought a lot of discipline and structure to the team. He has created a positive environment.”

The interview concluded with a humorous exchange, with Gambhir joking about the “spice” of their conversation.

India Eyes WTC Title to Complete Trophy Cabinet

India Eyes WTC Title to Complete Trophy Cabinet

India’s batting legend Rahil Dravid, in his final address as head coach, urged modern-day great Virat Kohli to complete his trophy cabinet by winning the World Test Championship (WTC). India has won all ICC trophies except the WTC, and Kohli, like the team, has yet to conquer this elusive title.

The WTC is a relatively new ICC tournament, and India has been one of its most successful teams, reaching the finals twice before this cycle. However, they lost to New Zealand in 2021 and Australia in 2023.

India is once again a favorite to reach the finals, and this time they aim to complete their trophy collection. After breaking their ICC trophy drought with their second T20 World Cup title this year, India now sets their sights on the WTC title.

Their final stretch of the ‘Road to Lord’s’ begins with a two-match Test series against Bangladesh. India has never lost a Test match against Bangladesh, but the gap in the WTC standings is not as significant as the Test rankings.

Bangladesh is coming off a historic series win over Pakistan, which has boosted their confidence. However, India has not lost a Test series at home for over a decade.

India’s form in the current WTC cycle has been impressive, with six wins, two defeats, and one draw in nine matches. Bangladesh, on the other hand, has three wins, three defeats, and 45.83 percentage points in six matches.

While Bangladesh is in good red-ball form, India has not played Test cricket for over six months. However, most of the Indian team members participated in the domestic Duleep Trophy game to prepare for the five-day grind.

The series promises to be an exciting contest between two teams with contrasting strengths and weaknesses. India will rely on their experience and home advantage, while Bangladesh will look to capitalize on their recent momentum.

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