Zaheer Khan's Suggestion Led to Virender Sehwag's Opening Batting Success

Zaheer Khan’s Suggestion Led to Virender Sehwag’s Opening Batting Success

Virender Sehwag’s transformation from a middle-order batsman to a devastating opener is a pivotal moment in cricket history. The idea to elevate Sehwag to the top of the order originated from an unexpected source: Zaheer Khan.

During a conversation with Shoaib Akhtar, Sehwag revealed that Khan had suggested the move to then-captain Sourav Ganguly. The suggestion stemmed from a match in 1999, where Akhtar had dismissed Sehwag at number seven in the batting order.

“What were you doing at number seven?” Akhtar asked Sehwag. “I used to bat in the middle order at that time,” Sehwag replied.

Khan’s suggestion was met with skepticism initially, but Ganguly was willing to experiment. In July 2001, during a tri-series against Sri Lanka and New Zealand, Sehwag was pushed up to open alongside Ganguly due to an injury to Sachin Tendulkar.

The move proved to be a masterstroke. Sehwag’s aggressive style and ability to score quickly at the top of the order transformed India’s batting lineup. He made his Test debut as an opener in 2002 and never looked back.

Sehwag went on to become one of the most successful opening batsmen in cricket history. He played 104 Tests and 251 ODIs, scoring 8586 and 8273 runs respectively. He was a key member of India’s victorious 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup teams.

Sehwag’s impact on cricket was profound. His aggressive approach and ability to dominate bowling attacks inspired a generation of batsmen. He retired in 2015, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most entertaining and destructive openers the game has ever seen.

Steve Smith: Virat Kohli is 'Australian in Thoughts and Action'

Steve Smith: Virat Kohli is ‘Australian in Thoughts and Action’

Steve Smith, the veteran Australian batsman, has described Virat Kohli, the former Indian captain, as “Australian in thoughts and action.” Smith made this observation in a video posted by Star Sports on ‘X’, as per IANS.

Smith’s comments come ahead of the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which will feature India and Australia facing off in a crucial five-match series in Perth, Adelaide (pink-ball game), Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney, respectively. India has won the Border-Gavaskar Trophy the last two times it has been contested in Australia, in 2018-19 and 2020-21, respectively.

“I believe Virat Kohli is Australian in thoughts and action. The way he gets into a battle, the way he gets into the challenge and tries to get on top of the opposition. He’s probably the most Australian of the Indian players, I’d say,” Smith said.

Smith further claimed that the two players share messages often and expressed enthusiasm to meet Kohli in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, starting from November 22.

“We get on quite well, share messages every now and then and look, he’s a great guy and obviously a wonderful player. It’s going to be nice to come up against him again this summer,” said Smith.

Smith’s comments highlight the mutual respect between two of the greatest batsmen of their generation. Kohli is known for his aggressive and competitive approach on the field, while Smith is admired for his resilience and determination.

The upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy promises to be a thrilling contest between two of the world’s best cricket teams. With Kohli and Smith leading their respective sides, the series is sure to produce some memorable moments.

Pakistan Cricket Faces Decline Amidst Lack of Star Players

Pakistan Cricket Faces Decline Amidst Lack of Star Players

Pakistan’s cricket team has faced intense scrutiny after their humiliating Test series defeat against Bangladesh, marking a historic low for the side. Former Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly has expressed concern over Pakistan’s decline, attributing it to a lack of star players.

Ganguly highlighted the absence of legendary players like Javed Miandad, Wasim Akram, and others, who once defined Pakistan’s cricketing prowess. He emphasized the need for Pakistan to produce exceptional talent to compete in modern cricket.

“I see a genuine dearth of talent in the country,” Ganguly said. “Every time we think of Pakistan, we remember Miandad, Wasim, Waqar, Saeed Anwar, Mohammad Yousuf, and Younis Khan. That’s the memory of Pakistan for us, but that doesn’t win matches in the modern generation of cricket.”

Ganguly urged Pakistani cricket authorities to address the issue, stating that the current squad lacks the caliber of past greats. He believes that Pakistan’s decline is a matter of concern for the sport.

Meanwhile, Ganguly praised Indian wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant, who is set to return to the Test side against Bangladesh. Ganguly believes Pant has the potential to become an all-time great in Test cricket but needs to improve his performance in shorter formats.

“I consider Rishabh Pant one of India’s best Test batsmen,” Ganguly said. “I’m not surprised that he’s back in the side, and he will continue to play for India in Tests.”

Sunlight Halts Play in Bizarre India-New Zealand ODI

Sunlight Halts Play in Bizarre India-New Zealand ODI

Sun Interrupts Play in Bizarre ODI Between India and New Zealand

In an unprecedented turn of events, the first ODI between India and New Zealand at McLean Park on January 23, 2019, was halted due to sunlight. The bizarre incident occurred during the day-night match, leaving players and spectators alike bewildered.

Normally, cricket pitches are positioned in the North-South direction to avoid direct sunlight in the batsmen’s line of sight. However, at McLean Park, the pitch is East-West facing, exposing the batsmen to the sun’s glare.

As the sun began to set, its rays shone directly into the eyes of the batsmen, making it difficult for them to see the ball. After the dinner break, the umpires decided to halt play for approximately half an hour to ensure the safety of the players.

This was not the first time that sunlight had caused interruptions at McLean Park. Similar incidents had occurred during domestic competitions and reportedly at some English grounds. However, this was the first time that a sun-induced stoppage had occurred in an international match.

Indian captain Virat Kohli expressed his surprise at the unusual interruption. “Never in my life,” he said when asked about the halt. “It was funny. In 2014, I got out once with the sun in my eyes and this rule wasn’t there then.”

At the time of the stoppage, India was chasing 158 and had reached 44/1 in 10 overs. Kohli and Shikhar Dhawan were batting on 2 and 29 respectively. Play resumed after the sun had set, and India went on to win the match by six wickets.

The incident highlights the importance of considering all potential factors that can affect the safety and fairness of a cricket match. While rain-related interruptions are common, sun-induced stoppages are a rare but not unheard-of occurrence. As cricket continues to evolve, it is likely that we will see more unusual and unexpected interruptions in the future.

Gavaskar and Tendulkar: A Legacy of Mutual Respect and Admiration

Gavaskar and Tendulkar: A Legacy of Mutual Respect and Admiration

Sunil Gavaskar and Sachin Tendulkar: A Legacy of Mutual Respect and Admiration

Indian cricket legends Sunil Gavaskar and Sachin Tendulkar share an unbreakable bond forged by their mutual respect and admiration. As two of the greatest batsmen to grace the game, their relationship transcends generations and serves as an inspiration to aspiring cricketers.

Gavaskar, Tendulkar’s childhood idol, recognized his immense potential early on. He praised Tendulkar’s exceptional batting skills, unwavering discipline, and relentless work ethic. Gavaskar saw in Tendulkar the torchbearer of Indian cricket, destined to surpass his own legacy.

In a viral video, Gavaskar boldly predicted Tendulkar’s future greatness. “If he does not get a minimum of 15,000 runs and 40 Test centuries, I shall personally go and strangle him,” Gavaskar declared. “He’s got that much talent.”

Tendulkar, humbled by Gavaskar’s expectations, responded with a determined smile, “I’ll be trying my best.”

True to Gavaskar’s prophecy, Tendulkar shattered numerous records, including Gavaskar’s own tally of 34 Test centuries. He amassed an astonishing 15921 runs and 51 centuries in 200 Test matches, and 18426 runs in 463 ODIs.

Tendulkar has always held Gavaskar in high esteem, crediting him as one of his primary inspirations. He admired Gavaskar’s technical brilliance and resilience, acknowledging his significant contribution to Indian cricket.

Their relationship is built on a shared passion for the game and a deep respect for each other’s achievements. Tendulkar views Gavaskar as a mentor, while Gavaskar takes pride in Tendulkar’s accomplishments.

The bond between Gavaskar and Tendulkar is a testament to the enduring legacy of Indian cricket. It serves as a reminder that even the greatest of players can inspire and support one another, fostering a spirit of camaraderie and excellence that continues to inspire generations of cricketers.

Rohit Sharma's Communication Style and Forgetfulness: A Source of Banter and Amusement

Rohit Sharma’s Communication Style and Forgetfulness: A Source of Banter and Amusement

Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma’s unique communication style and forgetfulness have become legendary among players and fans alike. His words, often captured by stump microphones, have gone viral on social media, with memorable quotes like “agar koi garden mei ghoomta hua nazar aaya toh…” (if I find anyone roaming around like in a garden).

Rohit’s forgetfulness has also been a source of amusement. From leaving his passport and iPad behind to forgetting the playing eleven at the toss, his absent-mindedness has become a running joke.

In a recent chat with YouTuber Tamnay Bhatt, wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant shed light on Rohit’s communication style. “Bhai depend karta hai. Ground ke context mei toh mai samajh jaata hu, off the field kum aata hai samajh mei (I understand what Rohit says on the ground, but off the field I don’t),” Pant quipped.

Pant also shared an incident where he tried to distract Virat Kohli during an IPL match between Delhi Capitals and Royal Challengers Bengaluru. “It was one of the most important matches of the season for us and we needed to perform well. I couldn’t play that match and was thinking what could I do from the outside,” Pant explained.

Rohit’s forgetfulness and communication style have become an integral part of his persona. While it may sometimes lead to confusion, it also adds a touch of humor to the game.

Bangladesh's Nahid Rana Targets India Series After Pakistan Success

Bangladesh’s Nahid Rana Targets India Series After Pakistan Success

Bangladesh’s rising star, Nahid Rana, is setting his sights on the upcoming Test series against India after his impressive performance against Pakistan. The 21-year-old speedster has emerged as a key figure in Bangladesh’s bowling attack, and he is eager to make an impact in the highly anticipated series.

Rana’s journey to the international stage has been a remarkable one. Hailing from Chapainawabganj, he began his cricket career in 2020 after his brother enrolled him in an academy. Within a short span of time, he made his first-class debut in October 2021 and quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with.

In the 2022-23 National Cricket League, Rana and Sumon Khan both took over 30 wickets, a rare feat for fast bowlers in the domestic tournament. His impressive performances earned him a call-up to the national team, and he made his Test debut against Sri Lanka in March.

Rana’s Test debut was a memorable one, as he bowled at speeds over 150 kph and made an immediate impact. He continued to impress in Pakistan, especially with early breakthroughs, including the wicket of Babar Azam. In the second innings of the final Test in Rawalpindi, Rana took four wickets for 44 runs, helping Bangladesh secure a historic 2-0 series win.

Reflecting on his performance, Rana said, “Before leaving, I had said that I wanted to achieve something for my country, and it feels great to have delivered on what was expected of me.”

Rana’s success is not only due to his raw pace but also his ability to adapt and learn. He credits various senior players for his development, but he is determined to create his own identity in cricket. “I don’t want to be like anyone else. I want to create my own identity and be known as Nahid Rana of Bangladesh,” he said.

As Bangladesh prepares for the Test series against India, Rana is confident in his team’s abilities. “India are a good team, but the team that plays better cricket will win. We will see when we go there,” he said.

The first Test in India is scheduled in Chennai, known for its bouncy pitch. Rana is excited about the challenge and believes that his pace will be an asset on such a surface. “Pace is something you can’t always predict — it depends a lot on rhythm. Sometimes, it just clicks, and suddenly you find yourself hitting those speeds,” he said.

Nahid Rana is a rising star in Bangladesh cricket, and his performances against Pakistan have only heightened expectations. As he prepares for the upcoming Test series against India, he is determined to make a lasting impact and help his team achieve success.

India-England Fifth Test Canceled Due to COVID-19 Outbreak

India-England Fifth Test Canceled Due to COVID-19 Outbreak

The fifth Test of the Pataudi Trophy between India and England, scheduled for Old Trafford in September 2021, was abruptly canceled just 90 minutes before its scheduled start due to a COVID-19 outbreak within the Indian camp. The outbreak affected several support staff members, including head coach Ravi Shastri, and raised concerns about the health and safety of the players.

Despite the Indian players testing negative for the virus, anxiety over potential health risks led to the postponement of the match. India was leading the series 2-1 and had a chance to achieve a historic win in England. The decision sparked debates, with some questioning whether health concerns or player reluctance were the primary factors behind the cancellation.

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) released a statement expressing regret and disappointment over the news, acknowledging the inconvenience and disappointment it would cause to fans and partners. The BCCI and ECB later negotiated to reschedule the match, which was eventually played in July 2022.

India’s tour of England in 2021 had originally included five Test matches. After a drawn opening Test at Trent Bridge, India won the second Test at Lord’s by 151 runs. England responded strongly in the third Test at Headingley, defeating India by an innings and 76 runs, leveling the series at 1-1 after three matches.

India fought back in the fourth Test, thanks to a brilliant 127 from Rohit Sharma, winning it by 157 runs. However, the rescheduling of the fifth and final Test in Manchester due to the COVID outbreak denied India the chance to secure their first Test series win on English soil since 2007.

When India returned to England in 2022 for the rescheduled Test, they aimed to create history but ultimately lost the match by seven wickets, resulting in a 2-2 series draw. Apart from Rahul Dravid in 2007, only Ajit Wadekar (1971) and Kapil Dev (1986) have led India to Test series triumphs on English soil.

Rosemary Mair Returns to Boost New Zealand for T20 World Cup

Rosemary Mair Returns to Boost New Zealand for T20 World Cup

New Zealand’s women’s cricket team has received a major boost with the return of fast bowler Rosemary Mair for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024. Mair, who missed the recent home series against England due to a back injury, will bolster a pace attack that already includes experienced campaigners Lea Tahuhu, Jess Kerr, Hannah Rowe, and Molly Penfold.

The return of Mair, who has 18 wickets in 24 T20Is, adds depth to New Zealand’s bowling options. She will be joined by all-rounders Suzie Bates and Brooke Halliday, who can also contribute with the ball. The spin department will be led by Leigh Kasperek, Melie Kerr, Fran Jonas, and Eden Carson.

Captain Sophie Devine and Bates will be making their ninth T20 World Cup appearance, a testament to their longevity and experience in the international arena. The squad also includes wicketkeeper-batter Izzy Gaze, who will be making her World Cup debut.

“I’m really pleased with this squad; I think these are our best 15 players to adapt to what will likely be varied conditions,” said New Zealand head coach Ben Sawyer. “Soph [Devine] and Suze [Bates] have a huge amount of tournament experience from World Cups to franchise leagues, so we’ll certainly be leaning on that knowledge in what’s going to be a pretty intense competition.”

New Zealand will face a tough challenge in the World Cup, which will be held in the United Arab Emirates from October 4-14. They have been drawn in Group A alongside India, Australia, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan.

Before the World Cup, New Zealand will tour Australia for three T20Is in September. They will also play warm-up games against South Africa and England before the start of the tournament proper.

The T20 World Cup will be Devine’s last assignment as New Zealand’s T20I captain. She has led the team to numerous successes, including the 2018 Commonwealth Games gold medal and the 2020 T20 World Cup final.

Jasprit Bumrah: The Unorthodox Genius of Indian Fast Bowling

Jasprit Bumrah: The Unorthodox Genius of Indian Fast Bowling

Jasprit Bumrah, the enigmatic Indian fast bowler, has emerged as a generational talent, redefining the art of pace bowling with his unorthodox yet devastating style.

Bumrah’s journey began in the 2013 Indian Premier League (IPL) with the Mumbai Indians. Despite his unconventional short run-up and stiff-arm action, he quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with. His ability to generate pace and swing with pinpoint accuracy made him a nightmare for batsmen.

In 2016, Bumrah made his international debut for India in an ODI against Australia. He followed it up with his T20I debut three days later and his Test debut in 2018. Since then, he has become an indispensable member of the Indian team across all formats.

Bumrah’s unique bowling action has been a subject of fascination and debate. While it may not conform to traditional coaching manuals, it has proven to be highly effective. His short run-up allows him to generate immense pace, while his stiff-arm action imparts a deceptive swing to the ball.

Beyond his technical prowess, Bumrah possesses an unwavering determination and a relentless work ethic. He is known for his meticulous preparation and attention to detail. His ability to adapt to different conditions and outsmart batsmen has made him one of the most feared bowlers in the world.

In his illustrious career, Bumrah has amassed an impressive tally of wickets. He has claimed 159 wickets in 36 Tests, 149 wickets in 89 ODIs, and 89 wickets in 70 T20Is for India. His performances have played a pivotal role in India’s success in recent years, including their historic Test series win in Australia in 2018-19.

Jasprit Bumrah’s rise to the pinnacle of world cricket is a testament to his exceptional talent, unwavering determination, and the power of embracing individuality. He has not only revolutionized the art of fast bowling but has also become an inspiration for aspiring cricketers around the globe.

Home
Shop
Wishlist0
Back to Top

Search For Products

Product has been added to your cart