India C Captain Ruturaj Gaikwad Retires Hurt in Duleep Trophy Match

India C Captain Ruturaj Gaikwad Retires Hurt in Duleep Trophy Match

Ruturaj Gaikwad Retires Hurt in Duleep Trophy Match, India C Faces Early Setback

India C captain Ruturaj Gaikwad’s Duleep Trophy campaign took a setback on Thursday when he retired hurt after facing just two balls in their match against India B at the Rural Development Trust Stadium B in Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh.

Gaikwad, who is also the captain of the Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League, twisted his ankle on the second delivery he faced from pacer Mukesh Kumar. He managed to hit a four on the first ball but was forced to leave the field after the injury.

The injury is not considered serious, and Gaikwad is expected to bat in the second innings. However, his early departure put India C on the back foot, as they lost their captain and key batsman early in the innings.

Despite the setback, India C managed to recover with a solid partnership between Sai Sudharsan and Rajat Patidar. Sudharsan scored 43 runs off 75 balls, while Patidar contributed 40 runs from 67 balls. The duo shared a crucial 92-run stand for the second wicket, facing 140 balls in total.

After their promising partnership, both batters were dismissed in quick succession, leaving Ishan Kishan and Baba Indrajith to rebuild the innings.

India B, led by Abhimanyu Easwaran, won the toss and opted to bowl first. They put India C on the back foot early, with Gaikwad’s injury and the dismissals of Sudharsan and Patidar.

However, India C showed resilience and fought back with a solid partnership between Kishan and Indrajith. The duo put on 50 runs for the fourth wicket, helping India C recover from the early setbacks.

The match is evenly poised, with India C looking to build on their recovery and India B aiming to take control of the game.

Liam Livingstone Targets ODI Recall with T20I Promotion

Liam Livingstone Targets ODI Recall with T20I Promotion

Liam Livingstone, the dynamic English all-rounder, is determined to use his promotion in the T20I team as a springboard to reclaim his spot in the ODI setup. Despite being a key figure in England’s T20 World Cup campaigns, Livingstone was surprisingly omitted from the ODI squad for the upcoming series against Australia.

In the recent T20I against Australia, Livingstone showcased his versatility by top-scoring with 37 from No. 4 and claiming 3 for 22 with his legbreaks. He believes that his ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game makes him a valuable asset in both formats.

Livingstone acknowledges that his recent struggles with injuries have hindered his progress. However, he is now fully fit and eager to prove his worth. He has been given the opportunity to bat at No. 4 in the T20I series, a role he prefers to the finisher position he has often occupied.

“I want that responsibility,” Livingstone said. “I want to try to win games of cricket for England, and the higher up the order, the more chance you have of doing that.”

Despite being the second-oldest player in the T20I squad, Livingstone embraces the role of mentor to the younger players. He believes that the fresh environment and new coaching staff have brought a sense of renewal to the team.

“Things are going to change,” Livingstone said. “That naturally happens when you bring in new players, but especially when you bring in new coaches as well. Things have felt different: it’s like a new beginning.”

Livingstone’s determination to regain his place in the ODI team is evident. He recognizes that his chances may be limited in the upcoming series due to the absence of Test players, but he is confident that his performances in the T20Is will put him in contention for the Champions Trophy in February.

“I’m not going to sit here and cry about not being picked,” Livingstone said. “There’s plenty of cricket to be played around the world, and if I’m not involved in the ODI stuff then there’s plenty more opportunities.”

Nathan Bracken's Surprising Career Transition: From Top Bowler to Account Manager

Nathan Bracken’s Surprising Career Transition: From Top Bowler to Account Manager

Nathan Bracken, the former Australian fast bowler who once reigned as the world’s top-ranked ODI bowler, has embarked on an unexpected career path after retiring from cricket in 2011. Instead of pursuing the common route of punditry or social media commentary, Bracken has opted for a surprising transition into the corporate world.

Currently, the 47-year-old Bracken serves as an account manager in Kiar, New South Wales, Australia. This career shift marks a significant departure from his illustrious cricketing days, during which he played a pivotal role in Australia’s success.

Bracken’s decision to venture into politics was also short-lived. In 2023, he contested as a Liberal candidate for The Entrance electorate but was unsuccessful.

Despite being a highly sought-after player, Bracken declined to participate in the Indian Premier League (IPL) despite being purchased by Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for Rs 1.3 crore in 2011. He opted to leave cricket altogether that same year.

In a 2018 interview, legendary Indian batter Sachin Tendulkar revealed that his former teammate Virender Sehwag had a particular dislike for facing Bracken’s bowling.

Bracken’s post-retirement years have not been without controversy. In 2012, he filed a lawsuit against Cricket Australia (CA) and three of its medical professionals, alleging negligence in the handling of his right knee injury. The case remains ongoing.

Noida Stadium Under Fire After Test Match Abandoned Due to Poor Conditions

Noida Stadium Under Fire After Test Match Abandoned Due to Poor Conditions

The Shaheed Vijay Singh Pathik Stadium in Noida has faced severe criticism after the one-off Test match between Afghanistan and New Zealand was abandoned due to unplayable ground conditions. Despite four days of scheduled play, not a single ball was bowled, leaving both teams and fans disappointed.

The ground’s condition was a major concern, with wet patches and standing water in various areas. The groundstaff struggled to prepare the surface in time, and the covers proved insufficient to protect the entire ground from heavy rainfall.

The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) expressed frustration over the infrastructure, while media reports highlighted the mismanagement and lack of preparedness. However, an alleged stadium manager, who remained anonymous, denied any wrongdoing.

Speaking to 93.5 Red FM, the manager claimed that critics were not understanding the situation and that “people want content.” He defended the pitch preparation, stating that it met the demands of Afghanistan’s coach, Jonathan Trott.

The manager also pointed to the heavy rainfall as the primary cause of the abandonment, emphasizing that even the nearby Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi had canceled matches due to the downpour. He argued that the Afghanistan team was aware of the ground’s conditions and had trained in rainy conditions.

Despite the manager’s explanations, the stadium’s reputation has been tarnished. The incident has raised questions about the quality of infrastructure and the ability of Indian stadiums to host international matches during the monsoon season.

Rashid Khan Returns to Afghanistan ODI Squad for South Africa Series

Rashid Khan Returns to Afghanistan ODI Squad for South Africa Series

Afghanistan’s spin wizard Rashid Khan is set to make a much-anticipated return to ODI cricket after a lengthy absence. The legspinner has been named in the 17-member squad for the upcoming three-match series against South Africa in the UAE, starting on September 18.

Khan’s return is a major boost for Afghanistan, who have been without his services since the World Cup last October-November. The 24-year-old underwent back surgery after the tournament and has since been restricted to T20 cricket.

However, Afghanistan will still be without mystery spinner Mujeeb Ur Rahman, who is still recovering from a finger injury. Wristspinner Noor Ahmad has also been left out of the squad. Chief selector Ahmad Shah Sulimankhil said offspinner AM Ghazanfar will cover for Mujeeb against South Africa.

Despite the absence of Mujeeb and Noor, Rashid’s return provides a significant boost to Afghanistan’s bowling attack. The legspinner has been in impressive form in T20 cricket since his comeback, taking 20 wickets in 15 matches in the IPL, T20 World Cup, and MLC.

Afghanistan have also called up uncapped medium-pace bowler Bilal Sami, and top-order batters Darwish Rasooli and Abdul Malik for the ODIs against South Africa. Rasooli has played seven T20Is, Malik has played two Tests, while Sami is yet to represent Afghanistan in any format.

Malik has been called up as cover for the injured opening batter Ibrahim Zadran, who is ruled out with an ankle sprain.

The three-match ODI series against South Africa will be Afghanistan’s first bilateral ODI series against the Proteas. It will also serve as preparation for the Champions Trophy early next year, for which Afghanistan qualified by finishing sixth in the league stage of the 2023 World Cup.

India Extends Unbeaten Streak to Four at Asian Champions Trophy

India Extends Unbeaten Streak to Four at Asian Champions Trophy

Defending champions India continued their dominant run at the Hero Asian Champions Trophy hockey tournament in Hulunbuir, China, with a convincing 3-1 victory over Korea on Thursday, September 12, 2024.

India, who had already secured a semifinal berth with three consecutive wins, extended their unbeaten streak to four matches. Araijeet Singh Hundal (8th minute) and skipper Harmanpreet Singh (9th, 43th) were the goal scorers for India, while Jihun Yang (30th minute) netted the lone goal for Korea from a penalty corner.

India started the match aggressively and took the lead early on through Hundal, who deflected a cross from the right flank into the Korean net. Just a minute later, Harmanpreet doubled India’s advantage with a powerful drag-flick from a penalty corner.

Korea fought back in the second quarter and earned a penalty corner, which Yang converted to reduce the deficit. However, India maintained their composure and regained control of the game in the third quarter.

Harmanpreet extended India’s lead to 3-1 with another penalty corner goal in the 43rd minute. Korea tried to mount a comeback in the final quarter but failed to breach the Indian defense.

With this victory, India finished the league stage with a perfect record of four wins from four matches. They will now face arch-rivals Pakistan in their last league match on Saturday before advancing to the semifinals.

The top four teams from the league stages will qualify for the semifinals, while the final will be played on Sunday.

Akash Deep Hails Jasprit Bumrah as 'Uniquely Crafted by God'

Akash Deep Hails Jasprit Bumrah as ‘Uniquely Crafted by God’

Akash Deep, India’s rising fast bowler, has expressed his admiration for pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, describing him as a “unique creation of God.” Deep, who made his Test debut against England in February, has earned a spot in the Indian squad for the first Test against Bangladesh in Chennai.

Deep acknowledges the influence of various bowlers, including Kagiso Rabada and Mohammed Siraj, but emphasizes that Bumrah’s exceptional abilities are beyond his reach. “Bumrah bhai ko bhagwan ne alag hi bana k bheja hai (He has been uniquely crafted by God),” Deep said. “I can’t learn everything from him.”

Reflecting on his experience under Rohit Sharma’s captaincy, Deep praised the T20 World Cup-winning skipper for his ability to create a relaxed atmosphere in the dressing room. “He manages things so well, talks in a way that puts you at ease, and gives simple plans that make cricket easier,” Deep said.

Deep also expressed his excitement about working under new head coach Gautam Gambhir, who he believes will bring a fighting spirit to the team. “The way he fights for the game of cricket makes me feel like I’ll really enjoy playing under his leadership as well,” Deep said.

In preparation for the Bangladesh series, Deep plans to focus on his strengths and bowl in good areas. “As a bowler, you can rely on your areas and strengths, which increases the chances of success and makes it easier to perform,” he said.

Deep acknowledges the challenges of red-ball cricket, emphasizing the importance of both physical and mental strength. “Red-ball cricket is tough for fast bowlers,” he said. “If you can survive it, you can manage white-ball cricket as well.”

Deep draws inspiration from legendary batter Sachin Tendulkar, admiring his down-to-earth nature and unwavering motivation. “Sachin sir’s down-to-earth nature has inspired me since childhood,” Deep said.

ISL Kicks Off with Kolkata 'Big Three' Rivalry

ISL Kicks Off with Kolkata ‘Big Three’ Rivalry

The Indian Super League (ISL) kicks off its 11th season on Friday with a highly anticipated clash between last season’s finalists Mohun Bagan and Mumbai City FC. This season marks a significant milestone as Kolkata’s “Big Three” clubs—Mohun Bagan, East Bengal, and Mohammedan SC—now compete in India’s top-tier football competition.

Mohammedan SC, the 103-year-old club, joins its city rivals after winning the I-League last season. Mohun Bagan, who merged with ATK in 2020, has been a consistent title contender since joining the ISL, winning the Shield last season but losing the final to Mumbai City FC. East Bengal completed the transition of Kolkata’s famous clubs to the ISL, reigniting their century-old rivalry at the highest level.

The opener between Mohun Bagan and Mumbai City promises to set the tone for an exciting season. Mohun Bagan has strengthened its attack with Australian star Jamie Maclaren, while Mumbai City has brought in several new faces, including Brandon Fernandes and Nikolaos Karelis.

The 2024-25 season promises to be more open and competitive, with NorthEast United FC setting the tone with a thrilling victory in the Durand Cup. Juan Pedro Benali’s team, which narrowly missed the playoffs last season, will look to build on their success.

The shadow of Anwar Ali’s four-month ban and hefty fine will loom large over East Bengal. Mohammedan Sporting faces a tough season ahead due to the departure of key players, but they have bolstered their squad with several new signings.

Last season’s semifinalists FC Goa will enter with renewed optimism under Manolo Marquez, who will juggle his club duties with his national team job. Chennaiyin FC and Bengaluru FC will also push to challenge for playoff success, while Sergio Lobera’s Odisha FC will look to add to their Super Cup title.

Kerala Blasters may struggle due to a weakened squad, while all eyes will be on Indian coach Khalid Jamil at Jamshedpur FC. Hyderabad FC, who endured financial instability in the build-up to the season, will face an uphill task.

Eugenie Bouchard's Hybrid Career: Blending Tennis and Pickleball

Bouchard clears air surrounding comment “Money can’t buy a US Open final lol”

In the aftermath of the US Open, a pivotal moment in Jessica Pegula’s career, Canadian tennis star Eugenie Bouchard has taken steps to clarify her comments regarding Pegula’s accomplishments, emphasizing that they stem from hard work rather than her privileged background. The clarification comes after Bouchard faced backlash from fans who misinterpreted her initial remarks as a dig against Pegula. This incident not only highlights the challenges athletes face regarding public perception but also showcases Pegula’s determination and skill on the big stage.

Jessica Pegula recently reached her first Grand Slam final at the US Open, a milestone reflecting her dedication and talent in tennis. Despite the pressure and scrutiny that often accompany players from wealthy backgrounds, Pegula’s journey to this moment has been marked by hard work and resilience.

Following Pegula’s loss to Aryna Sabalenka in the final, Bouchard commented on social media that “money can’t buy a US Open final.” Unfortunately, this remark was misinterpreted by some fans as disrespectful, leading Bouchard to clarify her intended compliment to Pegula’s skills and efforts. Bouchard expressed her frustration at being misunderstood, stating that she was simply acknowledging the hard work it took for Pegula to reach such heights.

Despite the controversy, Bouchard has come to Pegula’s defense, sharing a post that underlines the unwarranted criticism Pegula faces due to her family’s wealth. She emphasized that Pegula’s achievements are ultimately the result of her talent, discipline, and relentless pursuit of excellence. Bouchard’s support resonates with many in the tennis community who recognize Pegula’s perseverance against the odds.

Jessica Pegula reacted positively to Bouchard’s clarification and support, responding with appreciation. She has consistently asserted that she has “earned her stripes in the tennis world,” reflecting her commitment to the sport amidst the discussions about her privileged upbringing. Pegula’s journey illustrates that talent and determination hold greater significance than background or resources.

Despite her loss in the final, Pegula’s performance at the US Open has elevated her ranking to No. 3 in the WTA, showcasing her potential for future success. As she moves forward, the support from fellow athletes and fans alike is likely to bolster her confidence and drive, enhancing her journey in the competitive world of professional tennis.

 

Gavaskar Slams Comments on Root Surpassing Tendulkar, Calls for Aggressive Response

Gavaskar Slams Comments on Root Surpassing Tendulkar, Calls for Aggressive Response

Legendary Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar has strongly criticized recent comments suggesting that England’s Joe Root could surpass Sachin Tendulkar as the leading run-scorer in men’s Test cricket. Gavaskar argues that such remarks are disrespectful and that the Indian cricket community should respond with aggression.

Gavaskar points out that it is common for crowds to be silent when their team is not performing well, regardless of nationality. He suggests that the criticism of Indian crowds is unfair and that it should be countered with a more assertive approach.

The former England captain Michael Vaughan had previously stated that Root could become the top run-getter in Tests and that the BCCI would use its influence to ensure that an Indian batter retained the record. Gavaskar dismisses this claim, stating that the BCCI is committed to promoting Test cricket and that the IPL’s success does not diminish its interest in the longer format.

Gavaskar also questions the logic behind the suggestion that Test cricket would be better if Root broke Tendulkar’s record. He argues that Tendulkar’s achievements are a testament to the greatness of Indian cricket and that it is not necessary for an Englishman to hold the record for the sport to thrive.

Finally, Gavaskar expresses skepticism about the ICC’s decision to host the World Test Championship final at Lord’s in 2025. He notes that the venue has been changed twice before when England was not likely to qualify for the final. Gavaskar suggests that the ICC may be biased towards England and that the final should be held at a neutral venue.

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