Hilton Moreeng Steps Down as South Africa Women's Cricket Coach After 11 Years

Hilton Moreeng Steps Down as South Africa Women’s Cricket Coach After 11 Years

Hilton Moreeng, the long-standing coach of the South African women’s cricket team, has stepped down after an illustrious 11-year tenure. Appointed in 2013, Moreeng played a pivotal role in South Africa’s transition to professionalism and their rise to prominence on the international stage.

Under Moreeng’s guidance, the Proteas Women reached two 50-over World Cup semi-finals, two T20 World Cup semi-finals, and made history by becoming the first national senior side to reach a World Cup final, which they hosted in 2023.

Moreeng’s assistant coach, Dillon du Preez, will take over as interim coach for South Africa’s upcoming tour of India. A permanent replacement is expected to be appointed in the near future.

“I am incredibly grateful to CSA and management for entrusting me with the honor of coaching the Proteas Women,” Moreeng said in a statement. “It has been an unforgettable journey, and I am proud of what we have achieved together.”

Moreeng expressed his appreciation for the players, team management, fans, and media who have supported him throughout his tenure. He acknowledged the unwavering encouragement he received, which served as a constant source of motivation.

In addition to Moreeng’s departure, CSA has appointed Baakier Adams as the new batting coach and Bongani Ndaba as the fielding coach. Adams previously worked with the Warriors provincial team, while Ndaba brings a wealth of experience from his time with the Titans.

The changes in the coaching staff mark a new chapter for the Proteas Women as they look to build on their recent successes and continue their pursuit of excellence on the international stage.

Zimbabwe Opt to Bowl First in Fourth T20I Against Bangladesh

Zimbabwe Opt to Bowl First in Fourth T20I Against Bangladesh

Zimbabwe’s captain, Sikandar Raza, opted to field first in the fourth T20I against Bangladesh at the Shere Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka. The visitors made two changes to their lineup, bringing in left-arm quick Richard Ngarava and batter Ryan Burl in place of wicketkeeper Joylord Gumbie and middle-order batter Craig Ervine.

Bangladesh’s captain, Najmul Hossain Shanto, also expressed his preference for bowling first. The hosts welcomed back Shakib Al Hasan, Soumya Sarkar, and Mustafizur Rahman to their squad, replacing Mahmudullah, Litton Das, and Mohammad Saifuddin.

Shakib’s return marked his first T20I appearance since July 2023, having been sidelined by an eye condition and a finger injury. Mustafizur, on the other hand, rejoined the team after a brief rest following his stint with Chennai Super Kings in the IPL.

This match marked the first T20I to be played at the Shere Bangla National Stadium since March 2023. Bangladesh had played their previous 11 T20Is in Sylhet or Chattogram.

Bangladesh currently holds a commanding 3-0 lead in the five-match series, having won the first three matches by eight wickets, six wickets, and nine runs, respectively.

Prithvi Shaw's IPL Struggles Raise Concerns About His Future

Prithvi Shaw’s IPL Struggles Raise Concerns About His Future

Prithvi Shaw, once hailed as a rising star in Indian cricket, has found himself under fire for his inconsistent performances in the ongoing IPL 2024 season. Despite high expectations, the young opener has failed to deliver consistently for the Delhi Capitals, raising concerns about his form and focus.

In eight matches so far, Shaw has managed only 198 runs at a strike rate of 163.63. His scores have fluctuated wildly, with a few cameos interspersed with low scores. This inconsistency has led to criticism from fans and experts alike.

Legendary Pakistan fast bowler Wasim Akram has weighed in on Shaw’s struggles, advising the Indian youngster to return to basics and play first-class cricket. “He has to go back to basics, play first-class cricket and score big,” Akram said. “Focus on cricket, not parties.”

Akram emphasized the importance of Shaw playing regularly and taking care of himself off the field. “He has to play regularly, and look at himself off the field,” he said. “Do as many parties as you want after you retire, who cares. But now, focus on cricket.”

Shaw’s last appearance for Team India was in 2021 during the white-ball series against Sri Lanka. His inconsistent performances in the IPL have raised questions about his future with the national team.

If Shaw is to regain his place in the Indian team, he will need to rediscover his form and prove that he can be a consistent performer at the highest level. This will require him to work hard on his game and make some sacrifices off the field.

Naveen-ul-Haq's Social Media Post Sparks Support for KL Rahul Amidst LSG Controversy

Naveen-ul-Haq’s Social Media Post Sparks Support for KL Rahul Amidst LSG Controversy

Lucknow Super Giants’ Naveen-ul-Haq Shows Support for KL Rahul Amidst Controversy

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) fast bowler Naveen-ul-Haq has sparked speculation with a social media post that appears to show support for skipper KL Rahul following a controversial incident involving team owner Sanjiv Goenka.

Goenka was caught on camera having a heated conversation with Rahul after LSG’s 10-wicket loss to Sunrisers Hyderabad. The incident drew widespread criticism from fans and experts alike.

Naveen’s Instagram post, which features a photo of himself with Rahul in LSG colors accompanied by a heart emoji, has been interpreted by many as a gesture of solidarity with the captain. While the post does not explicitly address the controversy, its timing has raised eyebrows.

The incident has also drawn the attention of Indian cricket team fast bowler Mohammed Shami, who expressed his disapproval of Goenka’s behavior.

“Such behavior from an IPL team owner sends a bad message,” Shami said on ‘Cricbuzz Live.’ “Crores of people are watching you and learning from you. If these things happen in front of cameras, it’s shameful.”

Shami emphasized the importance of maintaining boundaries and having respectful conversations, suggesting that the incident should have been handled privately.

“It’s very important to note that players have respect, and you are a respectful person too, as an owner,” Shami said. “If you have to do that, there are many different ways. You could’ve done the same thing in the dressing room or the hotel. It wasn’t necessary to do it on the field.”

The controversy has cast a shadow over LSG’s season, which has been marked by inconsistent performances. The team currently sits in ninth place in the IPL standings with four wins and six losses.

BCCI Considers Future of Impact Player Rule in IPL

BCCI Considers Future of Impact Player Rule in IPL

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is considering the future of the Impact Player rule in the Indian Premier League (IPL) after mixed reactions from players and coaches. The rule, introduced in 2023, allows teams to field two additional Indian players in their XI, replacing one overseas player.

BCCI Secretary Jay Shah emphasized the rule’s importance in providing opportunities for Indian players. However, he acknowledged that it is not “permanent” and a decision on its continuation will be made after consulting with stakeholders following the 2024 T20 World Cup.

The Impact Player rule has been a topic of debate, with some arguing that it has led to inflated scores and hindered the development of all-rounders. Rohit Sharma, the captain of the Mumbai Indians, has been a vocal critic of the rule.

Chennai Super Kings batting coach Mike Hussey believes the rule has made IPL games more entertaining but admits it can be challenging for bowlers. Kolkata Knight Riders fast bowler Mitchell Starc also expressed concerns about the rule’s impact on bowlers.

Despite the mixed reactions, Shah emphasized that the BCCI will prioritize the opinions of players and coaches in making a decision on the rule’s future. He stated that the board will consult with franchises, broadcasters, and other stakeholders before reaching a conclusion.

The Impact Player rule has undoubtedly altered the dynamics of the IPL. It has provided opportunities for Indian players, but it has also raised questions about its impact on the game’s balance. The BCCI’s decision on the rule’s future will be closely watched by players, coaches, and fans alike.

Ganguly Advocates for Kohli as T20 World Cup Opener

Ganguly Advocates for Kohli as T20 World Cup Opener

Former Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly has strongly advocated for the inclusion of Virat Kohli as an opener in the upcoming T20 World Cup. Ganguly believes that Kohli’s exceptional form in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) warrants his promotion to the top of the order.

“Virat is playing exceptionally well. The way Kohli batted last night – 90 in quick time, you need to use him as an opener in the T20 World Cup,” Ganguly told PTI.

Ganguly expressed confidence in India’s T20 World Cup squad, commending its balanced composition and expressing optimism about their trophy prospects after a 17-year gap.

“This is an excellent squad. I think they have picked the best possible squad. Apart from batting depth, bowling looks excellent,” Ganguly remarked.

Reflecting on the high-scoring nature of T20 cricket, Ganguly acknowledged the trend of power-hitting and its impact on the game’s dynamics.

“This is going to be the trend in the years to come. T20 cricket has become a power-oriented game and that’s what it is going to be,” Ganguly observed.

Ganguly identified the Impact Player rule and the aggressive mindset of modern-day batsmen as factors contributing to the surge in mammoth totals in the IPL.

“Now, in IPL we are seeing scores like 240, 250 regularly… That’s how this game has gone and that’s how the players have started approaching the game,” Ganguly explained.

Ganguly stressed the need for bowlers to upskill themselves to counter the dominance of batsmen in T20s, citing examples of skillful bowlers thriving across formats.

“I don’t believe in formats. I believe in skills. These are exemplary players who will thrive in all formats,” Ganguly noted.

Referring to the selection of wicketkeeper-batsmen for the T20 World Cup, Ganguly backed the decision to prioritize Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson over Dinesh Karthik.

“Dinesh played well but there are better players than Dinesh. I don’t think you can leave Sanju or Rishabh out,” Ganguly remarked.

Ganguly refrained from commenting on the public reprimand of Lucknow Super Giants skipper KL Rahul, citing the need for a comprehensive understanding of the situation.

“It is not fair for me to make a comment based on a TV grab… So, I leave it at that,” Ganguly concluded.

Khaleel Ahmed Returns to India Colors After Four-Year Absence

Khaleel Ahmed Returns to India Colors After Four-Year Absence

Khaleel Ahmed, the Delhi Capitals pacer, has made a triumphant return to the Indian cricket team after a four-and-a-half-year absence. The 26-year-old left-arm pacer has been named as a standby for the upcoming T20 World Cup, a testament to his impressive performances for DC in the ongoing IPL.

Ahmed has been in scintillating form this season, claiming 14 wickets in 12 matches. His ability to swing the ball both ways and generate pace has made him a formidable force in the DC bowling attack.

Speaking on the DC Podcast, Ahmed expressed his delight at being recalled to the national team. “The way the past few months were going and the way the IPL started, I had the intuition that something good would happen,” he said. “As the IPL matches progressed, my confidence continued to grow. I realized I was bowling well, and it has always been about moving one step ahead. Finally, when the name came, I was so happy, and it’s a step ahead for me.”

Ahmed’s last appearance for India was in a T20 match against Bangladesh in Nagpur in November 2019. Since then, he has endured a challenging period, missing out on selection for the national team.

“2019 was a long time ago. Every day, at the back of my mind, I missed that feeling of playing for the country,” Ahmed said. “Every time I used to watch India play, I used to imagine what I would have done if I was there in the team. So, every day was like a battle and these kinds of conversations were going on inside my head.”

Despite the setbacks, Ahmed remained determined to regain his place in the Indian team. He took just a week’s break after the last IPL and played all the domestic matches.

“It’s tough as a fast bowler, but I made up my mind that irrespective of what happens to me, I’m going to play all the matches. I pushed myself mentally in the past year and have grown with it,” he said.

Ahmed believes that the current IPL season, which has been a nightmare for bowlers, is the perfect opportunity for fast bowlers to shine.

“If a bowler performs in tough situations like these, he will be considered a King, and I want to be that King. So, this is what my mentality has been about the current scenario,” he said.

Ahmed’s return to the Indian team is a testament to his resilience and determination. He has overcome adversity to reclaim his place in the national setup and is now poised to make a significant contribution to India’s T20 World Cup campaign.

Mohammed Shami Slams Sanjiv Goenka's Public Reprimand of KL Rahul

Mohammed Shami Slams Sanjiv Goenka’s Public Reprimand of KL Rahul

Star pacer Mohammed Shami has strongly condemned the public reprimand of his India teammate KL Rahul by Lucknow Super Giants team owner Sanjiv Goenka, calling it “shameful” and inappropriate for sports.

Goenka’s animated confrontation with Rahul after Lucknow Super Giants’ record-breaking defeat to Sunrisers Hyderabad has sparked widespread criticism. Shami, the first Indian cricketer to speak out against the incident, expressed his disapproval in a recent interview.

“Crores of people are watching you and learning from you. If these things happen in front of cameras, and you see such reactions on screen, it’s shameful,” Shami said. “You should have boundaries in your communication, and this sends a very wrong message.”

Shami emphasized the importance of maintaining respect and professionalism in sports, regardless of the outcome of a match. He believes that such public confrontations undermine the integrity of the game and set a poor example for young players.

“It’s a team game; it isn’t a big thing if the plan isn’t successful. Anything is possible in the game. I understand there can be good or bad days, but every player has respect, and there’s a way to talk,” Shami said.

He added that while disagreements and heated moments can occur in the heat of competition, they should be handled privately and not in front of the public.

“A player talking to another player is different, but someone from the outside discussing something with the player is different. We are only speculating from what we are seeing, and only KL Rahul can tell what the conversation was about, but these kinds of reactions do not have any place in sports,” Shami said.

Shami’s comments have been widely supported by fans and fellow cricketers, who believe that Goenka’s behavior was unacceptable. The incident has raised questions about the role of team owners in professional sports and the need for clear boundaries in player-owner interactions.

BCCI Announces Departure Arrangements for Indian Team Players for T20 World Cup

BCCI Announces Departure Arrangements for Indian Team Players for T20 World Cup

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced the departure arrangements for the Indian team players participating in the upcoming T20 World Cup. BCCI Secretary Jay Shah has confirmed that players whose IPL teams fail to qualify for the playoffs will depart for the World Cup in two stages.

The first batch, consisting of players and coaching staff, will leave on May 24. The remaining contingent will depart after the IPL final on May 26. Shah emphasized that the IPL serves as a valuable platform for players to hone their skills, even for those whose teams do not make the playoffs.

“Look at how well Travis Head and Abhishek Sharma played the other day. If [Jasprit] Bumrah gets to bowl to Head, what better opportunity is there to practice?” Shah said during a media interaction.

Shah also provided an update on Lucknow Super Giants’ Mayank Yadav, who is currently sidelined with an injury. Shah acknowledged Yadav’s impressive performance earlier in the IPL season and revealed that the speedster will be under BCCI supervision.

Yadav joins a group of emerging pace bowlers without annual retainers, including Akash Deep, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Umran Malik, Yash Dayal, and Vidwath Kaverappa. These bowlers will receive continuous monitoring and support from the National Cricket Academy (NCA) medical staff, reflecting the BCCI’s commitment to nurturing young bowling talent in India.

Kohli's Stellar IPL Form Impresses Kumble, Watson

Kohli’s Stellar IPL Form Impresses Kumble, Watson

Former Indian cricketer Anil Kumble and ex-Australian all-rounder Shane Watson have heaped praise on Virat Kohli for his exceptional performances in the ongoing IPL 2024 season. They expressed confidence in his ability to maintain his prime form during the upcoming T20 World Cup.

Kohli’s scintillating knock of 92 off 47 balls, coupled with a collective bowling effort, propelled Royal Challengers Bengaluru to a resounding 60-run victory over Punjab Kings. Kumble commended Kohli’s relentless pursuit of excellence, highlighting his remarkable contribution of 634 runs in the tournament.

“He’s been in outstanding form. He had a break coming into this IPL, and since then, he’s been relentless in his pursuit of excellence,” Kumble remarked. He emphasized the importance of Kohli’s performance in the T20 World Cup, saying, “For India’s sake, you’d want his form to continue in the World Cup as well.”

Watson lauded Kohli’s all-round impact and his ability to elevate the performance of his teammates. He acknowledged the significance of the opportunities presented to Kohli early on, allowing him to capitalize and showcase his batting prowess effectively.

“They got some opportunities early as Virat Kohli was dropped twice. This allowed him to get going in his innings and he batted so beautifully once he capitalized on those chances,” Watson remarked.

Furthermore, Watson highlighted Kohli’s contribution in the field, particularly his electrifying run-out to dismiss Shahshank Singh. “In the field, they made a couple of little errors, but you could see the intensity crank up in the field when they needed it to. Some great catches and a great run-out from Virat Kohli to get Shashank out,” Watson concluded.

Kohli’s exceptional performances have not only boosted RCB’s chances of success but have also raised expectations for Team India in the upcoming T20 World Cup. His ability to maintain his prime form and lead his team to victory will be crucial for India’s hopes of lifting the coveted trophy.

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