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Category: Cricket

Rishabh Pant's Prank Steals the Show at Duleep Trophy

Rishabh Pant’s Prank Steals the Show at Duleep Trophy

By September 9, 2024 0

Indian wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant injected a dose of humor into the Duleep Trophy encounter between India A and India B in Bengaluru. During the pre-match huddle of the India A team, Pant stealthily joined the group, listening intently to skipper Shubman Gill’s speech.

The incident, captured on video and shared by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), drew mixed reactions on social media. While some found it amusing, others expressed concern that such actions could undermine the seriousness of the tournament.

Pant’s prank came amidst his return to the Test side after a 20-month absence. He was named in India’s 16-man squad for the opening match of the two-Test series against Bangladesh, starting September 19.

The squad also marked the comeback of Virat Kohli, who missed the five-Test series against England earlier this year due to the birth of his second child. Uncapped left-arm fast bowler Yash Dayal received his maiden Test call-up, while fast bowler Mohammed Shami remains on a comeback trail.

India pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah returned to the squad after the T20 World Cup. He is expected to play a couple of more Tests against New Zealand in October-November before the team’s tour of Australia for a five-Test series.

Pant’s return to the national side comes after a challenging period. He met with a road accident in December 2022, which sidelined him from top-flight cricket until the IPL this year. The 26-year-old made his international comeback in the T20 World Cup, where India emerged victorious.

Despite chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar’s earlier indication that Shami was targeting a return in the first Test against Bangladesh, the right-arm seamer failed to make the cut. Dayal, who had a remarkable redemption with his India call-up, was once smashed for five consecutive sixes by Rinku Singh in an IPL match.

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Gus Atkinson Withdrawn from England ODI Squad for Workload Management

Gus Atkinson Withdrawn from England ODI Squad for Workload Management

By September 9, 2024 0

England’s fast-bowling sensation Gus Atkinson has been withdrawn from the 50-over squad for the upcoming series against Australia due to workload management concerns. Atkinson’s impressive debut summer, where he claimed 34 wickets in six Tests, has prompted the England management to prioritize his long-term fitness.

During the Sri Lanka series, Atkinson’s pace noticeably declined, and he experienced a tight quad on day three at The Oval. Despite being deemed fit enough to bowl in the fourth innings, the management has opted to rest him for the ODIs against Australia.

Olly Stone has been called up to replace Atkinson in the ODI squad. England’s busy schedule, which includes a three-Test tour of Pakistan and a three-Test tour of New Zealand later this year, has necessitated careful player management.

England’s stand-in Test captain, Ollie Pope, expressed confidence in Atkinson’s recovery and emphasized the importance of player management. “He’s got a couple weeks off now to refresh and move forward,” Pope said. “I think the way he bowled today and just chatting to him, he actually feels like it feels better today than it did when he first felt it.”

The short turnaround before England’s winter touring commitments and the packed schedule of six more Tests before Christmas have made player management a top priority for the ECB. Five players involved against Sri Lanka, including Harry Brook, Ben Duckett, Josh Hull, Matt Potts, and Jamie Smith, have also been included in the ODI squad.

Pope expressed confidence in the team’s motivation for the Pakistan tour, where Ben Stokes is expected to return as captain. “Pulling an England shirt on is the greatest honor, so I don’t think there needs to be much more motivation,” Pope said. “We love touring as a team and everything’s a new, exciting challenge.”

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Experience Trumps Flamboyance: Rahul Edges Khan for India's Test XI

Experience Trumps Flamboyance: Rahul Edges Khan for India’s Test XI

By September 9, 2024 0

India’s upcoming Test series against Bangladesh presents a dilemma for the team management: prioritize immediate success or prepare for the crucial tour of Australia later this year. The choice between Sarfaraz Khan’s flamboyant batting and KL Rahul’s experience has become a focal point.

Khan’s impressive performances in the home series against England showcased his fearless approach and technical prowess. His twin half-centuries in Rajkot and another fifty in Dharamsala highlighted his precise footwork and ability to handle both pace and spin. However, Rahul’s decade-long experience in the national setup and his role as former Test captain give him an edge.

A BCCI source emphasized Rahul’s recent performances and fitness as key factors. Despite missing two previous Test tours of Australia due to injuries, Rahul scored a century in Sydney in 2014. His knack for scoring at significant overseas venues, combined with his extensive range of strokes, keeps him ahead in the pecking order.

The same principle of continuity applies to the wicketkeeper position, where Rishabh Pant’s exceptional Test credentials make him the preferred choice over Dhruv Jurel. Jurel’s impressive performance in the England series is acknowledged, but Pant’s exceptional Test record remains unmatched.

One position with notable competition is the third spinner’s spot, where Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel are contenders. Axar’s recent performances in the Duleep Trophy, where he showcased his all-round skills, have strengthened his case. However, Kuldeep’s previous success against Bangladesh and his array of variations might give him an edge on favorable batting tracks.

While Sarfaraz Khan and Dhruv Jurel have proven their potential, the emphasis for now seems to be on experience and previously demonstrated success. India’s team management is balancing immediate responsibilities with strategic preparations for the Australia tour, where continuity and experience will be crucial.

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South Africa's Bangladesh Test Tour Decision Looms Amid Security Concerns

South Africa’s Bangladesh Test Tour Decision Looms Amid Security Concerns

By September 9, 2024 0

Cricket South Africa (CSA) is facing a crucial decision regarding the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh, scheduled to commence on October 21. The decision hinges on security assessments currently underway, following concerns raised after anti-government protests in Bangladesh earlier this year.

CSA, in collaboration with the South African Cricketers’ Association (SACA), will make a final call by the end of this week. The Women’s T20 World Cup 2024, initially slated for Bangladesh, was relocated due to the unrest.

Sources within CSA indicate that the situation in Bangladesh has improved, but the organization emphasizes that player safety remains paramount. A collective decision will be made, with individual players unlikely to have the final say on whether to tour.

South Africa’s Test schedule has been condensed to two-match series in this World Test Championship cycle, prioritizing the launch of the SA20 domestic T20 league and cost-cutting measures. The team has played six Tests so far, winning two, losing three, and drawing one.

To qualify for the WTC final at Lord’s next year, South Africa needs to win at least five of their remaining six matches. If they tour Bangladesh, they are unlikely to field Marco Jansen or Gerald Coetzee, who are expected to return to action in November.

South Africa’s next assignment is a white-ball series against Afghanistan and Ireland in the UAE, where several new faces are expected to feature.

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Rain Washes Out Opening Day of New Zealand-Afghanistan Test

Rain Washes Out Opening Day of New Zealand-Afghanistan Test

By September 9, 2024 0

The inaugural Test match between New Zealand and Afghanistan, scheduled to commence on Monday, was unfortunately marred by inclement weather, resulting in the abandonment of the opening day’s play. Despite multiple inspections throughout the day, the outfield remained saturated, rendering it unsuitable for play.

The lack of a modern drainage system at the venue has exacerbated the situation, as heavy rainfall over the past week has left the ground waterlogged. With forecasts predicting continued rain and thunderstorms throughout the week, the extent of the disruption to the Test remains uncertain.

This highly anticipated encounter marks the first-ever Test between New Zealand and Afghanistan, who were granted Test status in 2017. Afghanistan, with 10 Tests under their belt, have faced setbacks in their recent outings, suffering defeats against Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Ireland.

For New Zealand, this Test serves as their first since March and initiates a demanding schedule in the subcontinent. The Black Caps will embark on a three-Test series against India in October-November, adding to their already packed itinerary.

The weather-induced postponement has cast a shadow over the historic occasion, but both teams remain hopeful that the conditions will improve, allowing for a competitive and memorable Test match.

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Virat Kohli: The Un-Auctioned Star of the IPL

Virat Kohli: The Un-Auctioned Star of the IPL

By September 9, 2024 0

Virat Kohli: The Un-Auctioned Star of the IPL

Virat Kohli, the batting maestro and former captain of the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), holds a unique distinction in the Indian Premier League (IPL): he has never been sold in an IPL auction. This intriguing fact stems from his early association with RCB, which dates back to the inaugural season of the IPL in 2008.

As a young emerging player, Kohli was not eligible to participate in the inaugural IPL auction. Instead, he was selected by RCB through a pre-season draft, recognizing his exceptional talent showcased in the U-19 World Cup. RCB’s decision to retain Kohli over the years has kept him from entering the IPL auction.

Kohli’s loyalty to RCB and their unwavering trust in his abilities have fostered a strong relationship. The IPL allows teams to retain a certain number of players ahead of each auction, and Kohli has been a constant fixture in RCB’s retained list. His consistent performances and leadership qualities have made him indispensable for the franchise.

As captain, Kohli guided RCB to four playoff appearances, showcasing his tactical acumen and ability to inspire his team. While the elusive championship remained out of reach, Kohli’s individual accomplishments in the IPL are remarkable. He is the tournament’s all-time leading run-scorer with 8004 runs in 252 matches, boasting an impressive average of 38.67.

Kohli’s 2016 campaign was particularly memorable, as he amassed a staggering 973 runs, setting the record for the most runs scored in a single IPL season. His exceptional batting prowess is further highlighted by his unparalleled feat of scoring 8 centuries in the tournament, more than any other player.

The combination of Kohli’s consistent performances, leadership role, and marketability made him indispensable for RCB. The franchise has always prioritized his retention, preventing him from entering the IPL auction. Kohli’s dedication to RCB and his deep connection with the fans have ensured that he remains one of the few players in IPL history never to have been auctioned, making his journey unique and significant in the league’s history.

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India's Dominance Intensifies Australia Rivalry Ahead of Test Series

India’s Dominance Intensifies Australia Rivalry Ahead of Test Series

By September 9, 2024 0

India’s recent dominance over Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy has intensified the rivalry between the two cricketing giants, according to senior Australian batter Usman Khawaja. India has emerged victorious in the last two Test series played in Australia, with identical 2-1 margins.

Khawaja acknowledges that the rivalry has grown in significance due to India’s recent successes. “For Indians, it’s always been the case to beat Australia. And more recently, you know, since the rise of India and IPL and everything else that happened, it’s the same way with Australia against India,” he said.

The rivalry has been further fueled by the fact that India has won all four of the last Border-Gavaskar Trophy series, including their home victories in 2016-17 and 2022-23. Khawaja believes that the rivalry has become even more intense since India’s triumphs in Australia.

“And particularly since India’s beaten Australia in Australia the last two times they’ve come out of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. It just means a little bit more,” he told Star Sports.

Khawaja emphasizes the magnitude of the rivalry, stating that it is a reflection of the high regard in which both teams hold each other. “We’re world number one, world number two teams really over the last two years. We were there at the last World Test Championship together. The rivalry has always been huge,” he said.

The upcoming five-match Test series between India and Australia, beginning on November 22 in Perth, is expected to further intensify the rivalry. Khawaja believes that the series will be a great opportunity for both teams to showcase their skills and test their mettle against each other.

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Australia-India Test Series: Rivalry and Friendship on Display

Australia-India Test Series: Rivalry and Friendship on Display

By September 9, 2024 0

Australia-India Test Series: Mitchell Marsh Highlights Rivalry and Friendship

With the highly anticipated five-match Test series between Australia and India set to commence on November 22, Australian all-rounder Mitchell Marsh has shed light on the unique rivalry and camaraderie between the two cricketing powerhouses.

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy, contested between India and Australia, has witnessed intense competition in recent years, with India emerging victorious in the last four series. India’s dominance on Australian soil during the 2018-19 and 2020-21 seasons has further fueled the rivalry.

Marsh emphasized the significance of the series, stating, “Australia versus India, it’s another opportunity to grow the game of cricket. Not that cricket needs growing in India, but worldwide. People tune into these big series.”

Despite the fierce on-field competition, Marsh highlighted the strong friendships between players from both teams. “There’s great friendships in the Indian team with our team, so there’s no hatred. But it’s a great on-field rivalry, both teams want to win,” he said.

The series will kick off in Perth, followed by a day-night Test in Adelaide. The third Test will be played at The Gabba in Brisbane, while the iconic Boxing Day Test will take place at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The series will conclude with the fifth and final Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

India will be aiming to continue their recent dominance over Australia, while the hosts will be eager to reclaim the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The series promises to be a thrilling contest, showcasing the best of cricket and the enduring rivalry between two of the world’s top cricketing nations.

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Rahul Dravid Returns to Rajasthan Royals as Head Coach

Rahul Dravid Returns to Rajasthan Royals as Head Coach

By September 9, 2024 0

Rahul Dravid’s tenure as the Indian cricket team head coach culminated in a triumphant note as India emerged victorious in the T20 World Cup 2024 under the leadership of Rohit Sharma. Dravid’s instrumental role in shaping the team’s success served as a fitting redemption after the heartbreak of the 2023 ODI World Cup final loss to Australia.

Post his tenure, Dravid’s name was associated with several Indian Premier League (IPL) teams, with speculations of him taking on a head coach or mentor role. However, the suspense ended with the announcement of his appointment as the head coach of Rajasthan Royals, a team he had been associated with from 2011 to 2015 as captain and mentor.

According to Cricbuzz, Dravid’s decision to return to Rajasthan Royals was driven by his deep connection with the franchise. Despite receiving lucrative offers from other teams, Dravid reportedly “turned down offers from high-profile franchises, even those virtually willing to hand him blank cheques.”

Dravid’s affinity for Rajasthan Royals dates back to 2011, when he was a marquee player with a base price of USD 400,000. It was widely anticipated that he would return to Royal Challengers Bangalore, where he had spent three seasons. However, RCB’s failure to bid for him left him at risk of going unsold.

In a dramatic turn of events, Rajasthan Royals made a late bid of USD 500,000 to acquire Dravid’s services. This marked the beginning of a strong relationship that saw Dravid captain the team for the next three seasons and serve as mentor from 2014 to 2015.

Dravid’s return to Rajasthan Royals is a testament to his loyalty and the deep bond he shares with the franchise. His experience and leadership will be invaluable to the team as they aim to replicate their past success in the upcoming IPL seasons.

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Quinton de Kock's South Africa Availability Remains Uncertain

Quinton de Kock’s South Africa Availability Remains Uncertain

By September 9, 2024 0

South Africa’s uncertainty over Quinton de Kock’s international availability continues, with the star batter omitted from another T20I series. De Kock, who has not announced a complete retirement from international cricket, missed the recent T20s against West Indies and will not feature in the upcoming matches against Ireland.

White-ball coach Rob Walter expressed uncertainty about de Kock’s future with the national team. “I don’t know, to be dead honest,” Walter said. “For the next little while, there will be no conversations between myself and Quinny as to whether he wants to play for South Africa again.”

De Kock’s absence has prompted South Africa to invest in other players, including Reeza Hendricks as an opener and Kyle Verreynne, Ryan Rickelton, and Heinrich Klaasen as wicketkeepers. However, Klaasen is currently unavailable due to personal reasons.

Walter emphasized that de Kock’s place in the team is not guaranteed, even if he expresses a desire to return. “There might be a conversation and also that conversation does initially mean it will lead to him being selected,” Walter said. “We have to just allow him to have his space, to play league cricket and to do what he needs to do. What will become more and more important is performance.”

De Kock’s decision to prioritize league cricket over international commitments has sparked a debate about the balance between franchise and national team obligations. South Africa’s decision to allow de Kock to miss a bilateral series in the lead-up to the 2024 T20 World Cup was seen as a significant shift in their selection policy.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding de Kock’s future, South Africa remains focused on preparing for the 2026 T20 World Cup. They will play four T20Is at home against India in November as part of their preparations.

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