Saeed Ajmal Calls for India-Pakistan Cricket Matches in Respective Countries

Saeed Ajmal Calls for India-Pakistan Cricket Matches in Respective Countries

Pakistan and India Should Play Cricket Matches in Each Other’s Countries, Says Saeed Ajmal

Former Pakistan off-spinner Saeed Ajmal has called for the resumption of bilateral cricket matches between India and Pakistan, emphasizing the immense love between the two nations. Ajmal believes that such matches would foster goodwill and strengthen the bond between the neighboring countries.

Pakistan last toured India in 2012/13 for a limited-overs series, while India’s last visit to Pakistan was for the 2008 Asia Cup. Since then, political tensions have prevented the two teams from playing bilateral series, with their encounters limited to multi-nation tournaments.

“Even if the India versus Pakistan match happens on the moon, it will be huge,” said Ajmal at the launch of the GloFans High School Cricket Cup. “There is a lot of love between India and Pakistan, and we must go to each other’s countries.”

Ajmal, who represented Pakistan in 35 Tests, 113 ODIs, and 64 T20Is, also stressed the importance of promoting Test cricket. “There is a need to promote long-format cricket,” he said. “The ones who play the longest format can play any other format.”

The former spinner praised the current crop of star batters, including Virat Kohli, Joe Root, Babar Azam, and Rohit Sharma. He also lauded India’s fast-bowling spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, who was named Player of the Tournament in India’s triumph at the 2024 Men’s T20 World Cup.

“Bumrah is a very intelligent bowler, and intelligence is required with speed,” Ajmal concluded.

Musheer Khan Emerges as Fielding Sensation in Duleep Trophy

Musheer Khan Emerges as Fielding Sensation in Duleep Trophy

Musheer Khan, the younger brother of Indian cricketer Sarfaraz Khan, has emerged as a fielding sensation in the ongoing Duleep Trophy. His exceptional athleticism and quick reflexes have made him a formidable presence on the field.

In a recent match between India A and India B at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium, Musheer showcased his brilliance with an incredible underarm throw from short leg. Akash Deep, the India A batsman, had fended off a bouncer but wandered out of his crease. Musheer, with lightning-fast reflexes, picked up the ball and unleashed a pinpoint throw that caught Akash well out of his crease. The dismissal proved pivotal in India A’s eventual defeat, as they were bundled out for 198 while chasing 275.

Musheer’s fielding prowess has not gone unnoticed. His brother, Sarfaraz, proudly celebrated his younger sibling’s brilliance by grabbing his hand and lifting it high in the air. Earlier in the match, Musheer had also impressed with the bat, scoring a composed 181 runs off 373 deliveries. His innings, which included a record-breaking 205-run partnership with Navdeep Saini, was crucial in lifting India B to a first-innings total of 321.

Musheer’s performance in the Duleep Trophy has further cemented his reputation as a rising star in Indian cricket. His fielding skills have drawn comparisons to some of the greatest fielders in the game, and his batting ability has shown that he is a complete cricketer. As he continues to develop, Musheer Khan is poised to become a key player for India in the years to come.

Afghanistan Opener Ibrahim Zadran Doubtful for Historic Test Debut

Afghanistan Opener Ibrahim Zadran Doubtful for Historic Test Debut

Afghanistan Opener Ibrahim Zadran Doubtful for Historic Test Against New Zealand

Afghanistan’s hopes of a strong start in their inaugural Test match against New Zealand have been dealt a blow with the injury to opening batter Ibrahim Zadran. The 22-year-old sustained an ankle injury during the team’s final practice session in Greater Noida on Sunday, just a day before the historic encounter.

“Today, in the practice session, Ibrahim had an injury in his ankle. But it’s not sure 100 percent what will happen tomorrow. We will see what will happen with him,” Afghanistan skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi said at the pre-match press conference.

Zadran’s absence would be a significant setback for Afghanistan, as he has been a key contributor in their Test matches. He has played seven of Afghanistan’s nine Tests, scoring 384 runs at an average of 32.00, including a maiden century against Sri Lanka earlier this year.

The injury to Zadran adds to Afghanistan’s already depleted squad, as they are also without star spinner Rashid Khan. The absence of these two key players could make it challenging for Afghanistan to compete against a strong New Zealand side.

Persistent rain has also hampered the preparations for both teams, with the practice sessions being disrupted. The weather forecast for the Test match is also uncertain, with rain predicted for the first few days.

Despite the challenges, Afghanistan will be determined to make a strong impression in their first-ever Test match. They will be led by experienced skipper Shahidi, who has played 10 Tests and scored over 500 runs.

New Zealand, on the other hand, will be looking to continue their dominance in Test cricket. They are ranked second in the ICC Test rankings and have a strong squad led by captain Kane Williamson.

The one-off Test match between Afghanistan and New Zealand will be a historic occasion for both teams. It will be the first time that Afghanistan has played a Test match against a top-ranked nation, and it will also be the first Test match to be played in Greater Noida.

Musheer Khan's 181 Powers India B to Duleep Trophy Victory

Musheer Khan’s 181 Powers India B to Duleep Trophy Victory

Musheer Khan’s scintillating 181-run knock in the first innings propelled India B to a 76-run victory over India A in the opening round of the Duleep Trophy at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium. The all-rounder’s gritty performance laid the foundation for India B’s triumph.

Khan, who had impressed in the Ranji Trophy, seized the opportunity to showcase his talent in the Duleep Trophy. On the opening day, he displayed remarkable temperament and determination, scoring a magnificent 181 runs off 373 deliveries. His innings, which included 16 fours and five sixes, lifted India B from a precarious 94/7 to a respectable 321 in the first innings.

This total proved crucial, giving India B a 90-run lead that ultimately proved decisive. Khan’s partnership with Navdeep Saini was particularly noteworthy, with the all-rounder providing constant encouragement from the non-striker’s end.

“My preparation was really good with my father. I had done well in Ranji so I knew I could get an opportunity here. Every ball I was encouraging him from the non-striker’s end to play it out,” said Khan after being named Player of the Match.

India B skipper Abhimanyu Easwaran expressed his delight at his team’s victory, which earned them six points in the Duleep Trophy. “We were looking to bowl first. Coming back from 90/7 to win the game is special. To be on the winning side is really good,” he said.

In contrast, India A captain Shubman Gill lamented his team’s mistakes in terms of batting and bowling strategies. “Musheer and Saini played really well. Seeing that there’s not much happening from the wicket, we could’ve gone to the bouncer option earlier to Saini,” he said.

“But out there we went for the option we felt was the best. The intensity with which we bowled in the second innings was commendable. Until about lunch time we were talking that if we get a 100-run partnership we could’ve got the target,” Gill added.

India A will now face India D, while India B will take on India C in Anantpur from September 12.

Kiwi Cricketers' Exodus to T20 Leagues Impacts Player Availability

Kiwi Cricketers’ Exodus to T20 Leagues Impacts Player Availability

The exodus of Kiwi cricketers from national contracts to lucrative T20 leagues has raised concerns about player availability for New Zealand, according to captain Tim Southee. Star players like Kane Williamson, Devon Conway, and Finn Allen have recently opted for casual contracts, prioritizing franchise cricket over central contracts with New Zealand Cricket.

Southee acknowledged the challenges this trend poses, particularly given New Zealand’s limited player pool. “It’s a small cricketing country in terms of numbers,” he said. “It would be great to have as many people as possible available for New Zealand, but the way the world is going, it’s getting harder and harder.”

New Zealand faces a demanding schedule in the coming months, with six Tests in the subcontinent, including three against India. The conditions will be vastly different from those in New Zealand, and Southee expects spinners to dominate.

“Conditions are foreign to what we’re used to,” Southee said. “But we’re excited about the chance of playing six Test matches on the bounce here in the subcontinent.”

Southee, a pace bowler, may miss a game or two due to the expected dominance of spinners. “We’ve got four quality pace bowlers at our disposal,” he said. “So it’s about working out what balance is right.”

After the India series, New Zealand will host England for a Test series, concluding their World Test Championship duties. Southee emphasized the challenges of playing nine Tests in a short period.

“It’s a challenge for every side,” he said. “For players playing multi-formats, you have to balance the chopping and changing nature of busy schedules.”

Despite Afghanistan’s inexperience in Test cricket, Southee warned against underestimating them. “Afghanistan has been an improving side for a number of years,” he said. “They’ve got a lot of confidence from their success in the T20 World Cup and the one-day World Cup.”

Pant's Banter with Kuldeep Adds Humor to Duleep Trophy

Pant’s Banter with Kuldeep Adds Humor to Duleep Trophy

Rishabh Pant’s Hilarious Banter with Kuldeep Yadav Lights Up Duleep Trophy

In a lighthearted moment during the Duleep Trophy match between India A and India B in Bengaluru, wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant engaged in a playful banter with teammate Kuldeep Yadav.

As India B sought to dismiss India A in their second innings, Pant’s voice was captured on the stump microphone teasing Kuldeep. After Kuldeep hit a boundary off the fifth ball of the 41st over, Pant anticipated that he would attempt a single off the final ball.

“Close in, close in,” Pant urged his teammates. “He’s going to take a single.”

Kuldeep responded, “No, I won’t.”

Undeterred, Pant persisted, “Swear on your mother.”

The exchange drew laughter from the players and spectators alike.

Despite the lighthearted banter, India B emerged victorious in the contest by 79 runs. Musheer Khan’s impressive 181 in the first innings and Pant’s quickfire 61 in the second were key contributions to their success.

Musheer was named Player of the Match for his outstanding performance. India B will next face India C in Anantapur from September 12.

Harbhajan's Six Off Akhtar: A Moment of Triumph and Rivalry

Harbhajan’s Six Off Akhtar: A Moment of Triumph and Rivalry

The 2010 Asia Cup witnessed an unforgettable clash between two cricketing giants, Shoaib Akhtar and Harbhajan Singh. The India vs Pakistan match reached its climax when Harbhajan smashed a crucial six off Akhtar in the final overs, propelling India to a thrilling three-wicket victory.

The tension between the two players had been simmering throughout the match. Akhtar’s fiery bouncer and subsequent verbal exchange with Harbhajan set the stage for a dramatic showdown. In the 50th over, with Pakistan needing just 12 runs to win, Harbhajan unleashed his fury on Mohammad Amir, sending the ball soaring over the midwicket boundary.

As the ball sailed over the ropes, Harbhajan let out a deafening roar and removed his helmet, his gaze fixed on Akhtar, who was positioned at third man. Akhtar, in response, made a V sign with his fingers and turned his head away, unable to meet Harbhajan’s triumphant stare.

The on-field clash between the two stars became a defining moment in their rivalry. Years later, they reunited during the Legends League Cricket Masters and reminisced about their heated encounter. Akhtar recalled the sixes he had hit off Harbhajan in the Faisalabad Test, while Harbhajan pointed out that he had refrained from sledging Akhtar after those shots.

However, when Harbhajan turned the tables and hit a six off Akhtar, the fast bowler’s anger flared. “You said so many things!” Harbhajan exclaimed. Akhtar playfully hit Harbhajan, who responded with humor, “When he can’t win with words, he starts hitting people.”

The clash between Shoaib Akhtar and Harbhajan Singh remains etched in the annals of cricket history as a testament to the intense rivalry between India and Pakistan. It was a moment of triumph for Harbhajan and a reminder of the passion and drama that can unfold on the cricket field.

Afghanistan Seeks Permanent Home Venue in India for Test Cricket Growth

Afghanistan Seeks Permanent Home Venue in India for Test Cricket Growth

Afghanistan’s Test cricket aspirations hinge on securing a permanent home venue in India, according to captain Hashmatullah Shahidi. Currently unable to host international matches at home, Afghanistan has been forced to play their home Tests at various locations in India, including Dehradun, Lucknow, and Abu Dhabi.

Shahidi believes that establishing a single home venue would significantly enhance Afghanistan’s performance in red-ball cricket. “If we stick with one venue, it will be more effective for us,” he said. “We know our own conditions very well. So hopefully that time comes in future that teams come to Afghanistan.”

Afghanistan’s Test record has been limited, with only nine matches played in six years. However, Shahidi is eager for more opportunities against top-ranked teams. “If we get a lot more chances with the good teams, we will improve,” he said. “I think if we get more chances on regular basis, we will improve a lot.”

Shahidi also expressed a desire for longer Test series, believing that it would provide Afghanistan with valuable experience. “If we get three- or four-match series in one time, I think it will be very good for us as a side,” he said. “Playing matches will make us even better on judging the ball and playing good cricket in red-ball format.”

Despite their limited Test experience, Afghanistan has made significant strides in white-ball cricket, reaching the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup earlier this year. Shahidi is confident that Afghanistan can achieve similar success in Test cricket. “We want to show to the world our best format is Test cricket,” he said. “I think we have that ability to do it and need to show it.”

However, the upcoming Test against New Zealand in Greater Noida is threatened by inclement weather, with rain and thunderstorms forecast for the coming week. It remains to be seen how much red-ball action Afghanistan will get from this match.

Virat Kohli Ends Century Drought with Masterful Knock Against Afghanistan

Virat Kohli Ends Century Drought with Masterful Knock Against Afghanistan

Virat Kohli’s century drought, spanning 1020 days and 83 innings, came to an end on September 8, 2022, during the Asia Cup Super 4 match against Afghanistan in Dubai. The Indian batting maestro, who had been struggling to find his rhythm in recent times, silenced his critics with a masterful knock of 122 off just 61 balls.

Kohli’s innings was a testament to his class and resilience. Opening the innings for India in the absence of Rohit Sharma, he seized the opportunity and played with a freedom that had been missing from his game for some time. His knock was a blend of power and finesse, as he effortlessly dispatched the Afghan bowlers to all parts of the ground.

The century was Kohli’s first in T20Is and his 71st across all formats internationally. It was also his first century since November 2019, when he scored a hundred against Bangladesh in a Test match.

Kohli’s unbeaten knock propelled India to an imposing total of 212 for 2, a target that proved insurmountable for Afghanistan. The Indian bowlers, led by Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s five-wicket haul, restricted Afghanistan to 111 for 8, securing a comfortable 101-run victory.

Kohli’s return to form is a major boost for India ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup in Australia. The former Indian captain has been a key figure in India’s success in the shortest format of the game, and his return to form will give the team a much-needed confidence boost.

Josh Inglis Smashes Records with Blazing Century for Australia

Josh Inglis Smashes Records with Blazing Century for Australia

Australian wicket-keeper batter Josh Inglis has etched his name in the record books with a blistering century against Scotland in the second T20I of the series. Inglis’s swashbuckling 103 off just 49 balls not only propelled Australia to a convincing 70-run victory but also marked several significant milestones.

Inglis’s century was the quickest-ever by an Australian in T20I cricket, surpassing his own previous record of 47 balls. It was also the first-ever T20I hundred by a designated Australian wicket-keeper batter.

The 29-year-old’s whirlwind knock was a testament to his exceptional batting prowess. He sent the ball to all parts of the Grange Cricket Club in Edinburgh, hitting 10 fours and 7 sixes. His innings was a masterclass in power-hitting and timing.

Inglis’s century was particularly impressive considering the lack of support from his teammates. Despite his heroics, Australia’s total of 196 was largely due to his individual brilliance.

The three-match T20I tour of Scotland is serving as preparation for Australia’s upcoming series against England. The Aussies will face England in three T20Is and five ODIs, starting from September 11.

Scotland, who narrowly missed out on qualifying for the 2024 T20 World Cup Super 8 stage ahead of Australia and England, have been unable to provide much resistance in this series. After chasing down a target of 155 in less than 10 overs in the first T20I, Australia cruised to a comfortable victory in the second.

Inglis’s record-breaking century is a timely reminder of his immense talent and will give Australia a much-needed boost ahead of their crucial series against England.

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