Cricket Australia Keen to Host India-Pakistan Bilateral Series

Cricket Australia Keen to Host India-Pakistan Bilateral Series

Cricket Australia (CA) has expressed its eagerness to host a bilateral series between India and Pakistan, should the respective cricket boards agree to such a venture. The announcement comes as both India and Pakistan are scheduled to tour Australia in November for separate series.

India and Pakistan have not played a bilateral series since 2012-13, with their encounters limited to global ICC events. However, the thrilling T20 World Cup match between the two nations at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in 2022, which drew a record crowd of 90,293, has reignited interest in a potential bilateral series.

CA chief executive Nick Hockley emphasized the organization’s desire to host such a series, stating, “We would love to host that if the opportunity arose. If we can play a role, we’d love to play a role.”

Hockley acknowledged that the decision ultimately rests with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), but CA remains open to facilitating the event.

CA’s head of scheduling, Peter Roach, also expressed interest in hosting a tri-series involving India and Pakistan, but noted that there is currently no room for such a series in the Future Tours Programme (FTP).

Despite the scheduling challenges, CA remains committed to exploring opportunities to host India and Pakistan in a bilateral series. The organization believes that such a series would not only be a sporting spectacle but also a significant cultural event.

Mukesh Kumar: From Gully Cricket to International Stardom

Mukesh Kumar: From Gully Cricket to International Stardom

Mukesh Kumar, the promising Indian pacer, has made a significant impact on the cricketing scene with his impressive performances in all three formats. In an exclusive interview, Kumar shared his insights on his bowling prowess, the guidance he has received from senior bowlers, and his aspirations for the upcoming season.

Kumar’s journey to the international stage has been marked by consistent performances in domestic cricket. His ability to deliver in all three formats has earned him recognition as a versatile bowler. In 2023, he made his international debut in all three formats, showcasing his skills against some of the world’s best batsmen.

One of the key factors behind Kumar’s success has been his ability to execute accurate yorkers. He credits his confidence in landing the yorkers to his early days in cricket, where he honed his skills in gully cricket. Kumar’s yorkers have become a potent weapon in his arsenal, helping him to restrict batsmen and create pressure situations.

Kumar has also benefited from the guidance of experienced fast bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah and Ishant Sharma. He has learned the importance of not allowing batsmen to dominate and the value of unpredictability in his bowling. Bumrah’s advice to bowl yorkers with the new ball has been particularly influential in Kumar’s development.

In the Delhi Capitals squad, Kumar has found a mentor in Ishant Sharma. Sharma’s experience and knowledge have been invaluable to Kumar, who seeks his advice on bowling techniques and strategies. Sharma’s belief in Kumar’s abilities has instilled confidence in the young pacer.

Kumar is excited about the upcoming IPL season and is determined to help Delhi Capitals win the title. He is also looking forward to the T20 World Cup, but remains focused on the present and his short-term goals.

The recent introduction of fast bowling contracts by the BCCI has been welcomed by Kumar. He believes it will recognize the efforts of young pacers in domestic cricket and provide them with a sense of security.

Sandeep Sharma Shines as Rajasthan Royals Triumph in IPL Opener

Sandeep Sharma Shines as Rajasthan Royals Triumph in IPL Opener

Rajasthan Royals (RR) spinner Ravichandran Ashwin heaped praise on right-arm seamer Sandeep Sharma for his exceptional performance in their IPL 2024 opener against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). Sharma’s economical spell of 3 overs for 22 runs, including a wicket, played a crucial role in RR’s 20-run victory at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium.

Ashwin highlighted the impact of Sanju Samson and Riyan Parag’s 93-run partnership, which laid the foundation for RR’s competitive total of 193/4. Samson’s unbeaten 82 off 52 balls, studded with six maximums and three fours, was a standout performance. Parag contributed a valuable 43 off 29 balls, including three sixes.

“Sanju and Riyan batted really well,” Ashwin said. “But I felt we were 10 runs short, with so many impact players coming up in the form of Hetmyer and Jurel.”

Ashwin also praised Sharma’s consistency and work ethic. “Sandy has been a top-5 bowler (in the IPL),” Ashwin said. “He’s a character, does the dirty work for us, did a lot to cover for Prasidh in the last season as well. I see him as a fighter.”

In the chase, LSG was reduced to 11/3 before Deepak Hooda and KL Rahul steadied the innings. However, RR bowlers Trent Boult, Sandeep, Ashwin, Nandre Burger, and Yuzvendra Chahal combined to restrict LSG to 173/6, with Nicholas Pooran’s 64 off 41 balls proving insufficient.

Boult was the pick of the bowlers with 2/35, while Sandeep, Ashwin, Burger, and Chahal took a wicket each. Samson was adjudged ‘Player of the Match’ for his match-winning half-century.

CSK's Smooth Transition Under Gaikwad's Leadership

CSK’s Smooth Transition Under Gaikwad’s Leadership

Chennai Super Kings’ (CSK) transition under new captain Ruturaj Gaikwad has begun smoothly, with the team securing consecutive victories in IPL 2024. Gaikwad has demonstrated exceptional leadership, collaborating closely with former captain MS Dhoni and head coach Stephen Fleming.

Michael Hussey, CSK’s batting coach, has praised Gaikwad’s tactical acumen and field management. “He’s very well prepared,” Hussey said. “He changes the bowlers around effectively, and his messaging to them is clear.”

Gaikwad’s new opening partner, Rachin Ravindra, has also impressed, seamlessly slotting into the team in Devon Conway’s absence. Ravindra’s aggressive batting has contributed to CSK’s strong starts.

Another standout performer for CSK has been Sameer Rizvi, who made a sparkling cameo against Gujarat Titans. Rizvi’s raw power and fearless approach have caught the attention of the team management.

CSK’s batting depth and the Impact Player rule have encouraged the team to adopt a hyper-aggressive approach, aiming for above-par totals. Hussey emphasized that players will not be criticized for taking risks while pursuing this strategy.

“We want to keep playing fast,” Hussey said. “With the Impact Player rule, we have an extra batsman and bowler throughout the game. So the batting order keeps lengthening. We have MSD at No.8, which is crazy.”

Maia Bouchier's 91 Powers England to T20I Series Victory

Maia Bouchier’s 91 Powers England to T20I Series Victory

England’s Maia Bouchier emerged as a batting sensation, guiding her team to a commanding 47-run victory over New Zealand in the third T20I in Wellington. Bouchier’s blistering 91 propelled England to a formidable 177 for 3, setting an insurmountable target for the hosts.

Bouchier, promoted to open the innings, seized the opportunity with aplomb. Despite an early reprieve on 5, she unleashed a destructive display, reaching her maiden T20I half-century in just 33 balls. Her innings was a masterclass in power-hitting, featuring a magnificent straight six off Hannah Rowe.

Bouchier’s dominance continued as she forged a 75-run partnership with Alice Capsey. Nat Sciver-Brunt and Heather Knight provided the late fireworks, adding 34 runs off just 14 balls. England’s aggressive approach saw them amass 65 runs in the final five overs, leaving New Zealand with a daunting chase.

New Zealand’s hopes were dealt a major blow when captain Sophie Devine suffered a quad strain while bowling. Her absence was keenly felt as the hosts struggled to keep pace with England’s imposing total. Bernadine Bezuidenhout and Amelia Kerr provided some resistance, but Charlie Dean’s four-wicket haul extinguished any hopes of a comeback.

Dean’s impressive performance highlighted England’s bowling strength. Sophie Ecclestone, returning to international duty, was typically economical, despite a rare fielding lapse. Lauren Bell’s early strike on Suzie Bates further weakened New Zealand’s batting lineup.

Bouchier’s outstanding innings and England’s collective dominance secured a series-clinching victory. The visitors’ aggressive approach and clinical execution proved too much for a depleted New Zealand side.

PBKS Skipper Dhawan Blames Slow Start and Dropped Catch for Defeat

PBKS Skipper Dhawan Blames Slow Start and Dropped Catch for Defeat

Punjab Kings skipper Shikhar Dhawan expressed his disappointment after his team’s four-wicket defeat against Royal Challengers Bangalore, attributing it to a slow start and a crucial dropped catch.

Batting first, PBKS struggled to gain momentum, scoring only 40 runs in the powerplay. Dhawan admitted to playing slowly in the initial overs, costing his team valuable runs. The dismissal of Jonny Bairstow further hindered their progress.

In the second innings, Virat Kohli’s dropped catch proved costly as the RCB batter went on to score a match-winning 77. Dhawan lamented the missed opportunity, believing it could have shifted the momentum in PBKS’s favor.

Despite the loss, Dhawan praised Harpreet Brar’s performance, who emerged as a game-changer with his economical bowling and crucial wickets.

Sidhu: Rohit Sharma's Stature Unchanged Despite Hardik Pandya's MI Captaincy

Sidhu: Rohit Sharma’s Stature Unchanged Despite Hardik Pandya’s MI Captaincy

Former Indian cricketer Navjot Singh Sidhu has weighed in on the recent captaincy change in the Mumbai Indians (MI) franchise, where Rohit Sharma has been replaced by Hardik Pandya ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season.

Sidhu believes that the change in captaincy does not diminish the stature of Rohit Sharma or MS Dhoni, who has also passed on the captaincy baton in the past. He emphasized that great players remain great regardless of their position in a team.

“I have played in an Indian team where five captains used to play together. There were no issues because they were playing for their nation. The motivation was to play for your country. So, playing under Hardik does not make Rohit smaller,” Sidhu said.

He further stated that franchise teams make decisions based on performance, and the change in captaincy at MI was a result of the team’s struggles in recent seasons.

“But this is a franchise and they look at the performances. They gave it three years and when it did not work, they got a new person for the job. You need to accept it. But Rohit Sharma and MS Dhoni are great players. A dwarf is a dwarf even if he is standing at the top of a mountain and a God is a God even if they are standing at the bottom of a well,” Sidhu added.

Meanwhile, MI’s batting coach Kieron Pollard has defended the team’s decision to open the bowling with Hardik Pandya instead of Jasprit Bumrah in their IPL opener against Gujarat Titans. He explained that it was a collective decision based on Pandya’s recent success with the new ball for Gujarat Titans.

“You have to plan and decide what you want to do as a team. Hardik (Pandya) has also bowled with the new ball for Gujarat over the last couple of years. He swung the new ball and bowled it well, which was nothing new to us,” Pollard said.

Despite the change in captaincy and bowling strategy, MI lost their opening match of the IPL 2024 season by six runs to Gujarat Titans.

Virat Kohli Unleashes Aggression, Leads RCB to Victory

Virat Kohli Unleashes Aggression, Leads RCB to Victory

Virat Kohli’s resurgence in the Indian Premier League (IPL) has been a sight to behold. The former India captain has shed his conservative approach and embraced an aggressive style of play, leading Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) to a thrilling victory over Punjab Kings.

In a match-winning 49-ball 77 at the Chinnaswamy Stadium, Kohli showcased his dominance from the outset. He smashed five fours in the first eight balls he faced, a departure from his usual cautious start. His willingness to take advantage of the field restrictions was evident as he charged down the track to pacers, including Kagiso Rabada, and dispatched them over extra cover.

Kohli’s intent was unwavering even after the Powerplay. He scored 42 runs off 28 balls, including three fours and two sixes, while wickets fell around him. His ability to maintain a high strike rate against Punjab’s economical left-arm spinner Harpreet Brar was particularly impressive.

Kohli’s recent knock suggests that he is willing to adapt to the attacking brand of cricket that has become synonymous with young India in the T20 circuit. However, the challenge lies in consistently scoring at a higher strike rate.

RCB skipper Faf du Plessis praised Kohli’s innings, saying, “Virat was important in the way he tempered his innings. It was not a normal Chinnaswamy pitch, where you could just hit through the line. Good to see him, he’s always smiling and enjoying himself. Still very passionate about playing cricket.”

With the T20 World Cup on the horizon, the IPL provides Kohli with an opportunity to showcase his ability to play in fifth gear throughout. His recent performance is a testament to his determination to remain a force in the shortest format of the game.

Shivam Dube's Short-Ball Mastery Powers CSK to Victory

Shivam Dube’s Short-Ball Mastery Powers CSK to Victory

Shivam Dube’s remarkable transformation in handling short balls has been a key factor in Chennai Super Kings’ (CSK) impressive start to the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 season. The burly Mumbai all-rounder, who was once vulnerable to the short-ball barrage, has now become a formidable force against it.

Dube’s newfound confidence and improved technique were evident in CSK’s 63-run victory over Gujarat Titans on Tuesday. He smashed five sixes in his 23-ball 51, showcasing his ability to clear the boundary with ease. This performance followed his unbeaten 34 in the opening win against Royal Challengers Bangalore, where he also displayed his improved short-ball handling.

The credit for Dube’s transformation goes in part to Mahendra Singh Dhoni, the legendary former India captain and current CSK skipper. Dhoni has worked closely with Dube, providing him with guidance and support. The CSK management has also given Dube the freedom to express himself, allowing him to play his natural game.

“Just confidence. When he came here the management worked with him personally, Mahi bhai worked with him personally. He knows what role he is playing and which bowler to take on. A big plus for us,” said Gaikwad, praising Dube’s impact.

Dube himself acknowledged the support he has received from CSK. “This franchise (CSK) is something different from all others. They are giving me the freedom. They want me to do better and I also want to win some matches,” he said after winning the ‘Player of the Match’ award.

Dube’s improved short-ball handling has not only made him a more dangerous batsman but has also given CSK a valuable weapon in their bowling attack. With the new rule allowing two bouncers per over, Dube can now use his height and pace to trouble batsmen with short-pitched deliveries.

For CSK, Dube’s transformation is a testament to the team’s commitment to player development. The franchise has a history of nurturing young talent and helping them reach their full potential. Dube’s success is a shining example of this philosophy.

Experience vs. Adaptability: The Dilemma of Kohli and Sharma in T20 Cricket

Experience vs. Adaptability: The Dilemma of Kohli and Sharma in T20 Cricket

The T20 format’s rapid evolution poses a unique challenge for batters: their experience can sometimes work against them. As India’s selectors grapple with the dilemma of whether to include both Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in the upcoming World T20, they face this philosophical conundrum.

In traditional sports like cricket, experience is generally seen as an advantage. A seasoned spinner like Ravichandran Ashwin has a wider repertoire of tricks than he did a decade ago. Similarly, Kohli and Sharma have a deeper understanding of their batting now than they did in their early years.

However, in T20 cricket, the emphasis shifts towards adaptability and flexibility. The format demands batters to forget past experiences and approach each ball as a new challenge. While experience can provide a foundation, it can also become a burden, hindering a batter’s ability to adapt to the ever-changing demands of the game.

This is particularly evident in the case of young batters who have grown up playing in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Untroubled by the weight of past performances, they embrace the unexpected and prioritize striking with confidence. They have no preconceived notions about how to bat, allowing them to experiment and innovate.

In contrast, experienced batters may be more hesitant to change their approach. They have witnessed the pitfalls of different shots and are aware of the many ways to get out. This knowledge can sometimes limit their ability to adapt to the unique challenges of T20 cricket.

The IPL has been a breeding ground for young batters who have embraced the T20 mindset. Shikhar Dhawan and David Warner, despite their impressive records, have recognized the need to adapt or perish.

The evolution of T20 cricket has also highlighted the importance of bowling attacks. While the format was initially perceived as a batter’s game, it has become increasingly clear that teams with strong bowling units have a significant advantage.

As the IPL unfolds, the progress of India’s two most experienced batters, Kohli and Sharma, will be closely monitored. Their ability to adapt to the demands of T20 cricket will be crucial in determining their success in the upcoming World T20.

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