Ishan Kishan's Surprise Duleep Trophy Inclusion Sparks Confusion

Ishan Kishan’s Surprise Duleep Trophy Inclusion Sparks Confusion

Ishan Kishan’s Surprise Inclusion in Duleep Trophy Raises Questions

In a surprising turn of events, wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan has made an unexpected appearance in the playing XI of the India C team in the second round of the Duleep Trophy. This development has raised eyebrows, as Kishan was previously ruled out of the tournament due to a groin injury.

The confusion began when Kishan, a regular in India’s cricket squad until last year, was initially ruled out of the Duleep Trophy’s first round. The BCCI had announced his injury, sustained during the Buchi Babu Invitational tournament, with Sanju Samson named as his replacement in the India D squad.

When the second round squad lists were released, Kishan was not mentioned, and there were no updates about his recovery. However, on September 12, Kishan appeared in the playing XI for India C against India B, causing speculation and confusion among fans and cricket analysts. The second-round announcement had stated no changes in the India C team, adding to the surprise.

The uncertainty over how Kishan, initially ruled out with an injury, suddenly joined the India C lineup has escalated without an official statement from the BCCI. Previously, Kishan had stepped away from cricket due to mental health issues, causing him to be dropped from the Indian squads and lose his central contract. His recent century in the Buchi Babu Invitational was seen as a positive sign of his return.

With Kishan’s unexpected inclusion in the Duleep Trophy, fans await clarification from the BCCI. The situation has led to further speculation about his future in Indian cricket. Some believe that his inclusion indicates a return to form and a potential recall to the national team, while others question the timing and circumstances of his recovery.

The BCCI’s silence on the matter has only added to the intrigue surrounding Kishan’s inclusion. It remains to be seen whether the board will provide an official explanation or whether Kishan’s return will remain shrouded in mystery.

Vinesh Phogat Embraces Politics After Olympic Heartbreak

Vinesh Phogat Embraces Politics After Olympic Heartbreak

Former Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat, who suffered a heartbreaking disqualification at the Paris Olympics 2024, has embarked on a new chapter in her life by joining the Congress party and announcing her political debut.

Phogat’s decision to retire from wrestling after the Olympic setback has led her to seek a new path in politics. She has filed her nomination for the upcoming Haryana elections, contesting from the Julana Constituency in Jind.

An affidavit submitted by Phogat during her nomination filing reveals insights into her financial status. She owns three cars: a Volvo XC 60 (valued at Rs 35 lakh), a Hyundai Creta (valued at Rs 12 lakh), and a Toyota Innova (valued at Rs 17 lakh). She is also repaying a loan related to one of her cars.

Phogat’s immovable property is valued at Rs 2 crore. She has Rs 1.95 lakh in hand and her Income Tax returns for the financial year 2023-24 show an income of Rs 13,85,000.

Phogat’s uncle, Mahavir Singh Phogat, a former wrestling coach, expressed his support for her political aspirations. He stated that his daughter, Sangeeta Phogat, will now carry forward his dream of an Olympic medal in wrestling, as he prepares her for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Last Friday, Phogat and Tokyo Olympic bronze medalist Bajrang Punia (Sangeeta’s husband) joined the Congress party. Phogat will make her electoral debut from Julana in Jind district.

Mahavir Phogat emphasized that Sangeeta will now focus on the 2028 Olympics, as Vinesh’s political career has opened up a new opportunity for her. He also mentioned that Babita Phogat’s knee injuries have hindered her return to the mat.

Hazlewood's Cunning Deception Foxes Livingstone in T20I

Hazlewood’s Cunning Deception Foxes Livingstone in T20I

Bowlers’ Trickery: Josh Hazlewood’s Cunning Deception to Dismiss Liam Livingstone

In the ever-evolving landscape of cricket, where batsmen continuously innovate with audacious shots, bowlers must also adapt and devise new strategies to outwit their opponents. One such instance of bowling brilliance was witnessed in the first T20I between England and Australia at the Rose Bowl in Southampton.

Australian paceman Josh Hazlewood showcased his cunning deception to dismiss England’s Liam Livingstone. Bowling the 14th over, Hazlewood initially displayed the grip and hand position of an off-cutter, leading Livingstone to anticipate a slower delivery. However, in a swift move, Hazlewood switched his grip and unleashed a full-paced delivery.

The ball crashed into the hard length outside off stump, catching Livingstone off guard. The batsman’s lack of footwork and attempt to stab at the ball resulted in an inside edge that crashed into his stumps. Despite the absence of significant movement, Hazlewood’s clever deception proved decisive.

Bowlers employ various tactics to disrupt batsmen’s rhythm and force errors. Some slow down their deliveries or accelerate them unexpectedly to unsettle the batsman’s timing. Others rely on swing and seam to make the ball move unpredictably.

These strategies demand a combination of skill, guile, and an understanding of the batsman’s mindset. Hazlewood’s dismissal of Livingstone exemplified all these qualities, demonstrating the importance of bowling variations and outsmarting the opposition.

Verstappen and Red Bull Seek Redemption at Azerbaijan Grand Prix

Verstappen and Red Bull Seek Redemption at Azerbaijan Grand Prix

Max Verstappen and Red Bull Racing face a crucial weekend at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix as they aim to regain their dominance in the Formula One title race. After a six-race winless streak, Verstappen’s lead in the drivers’ championship has been reduced to 62 points, while Red Bull’s advantage in the constructors’ standings has narrowed to just eight points.

Verstappen’s last victory came at the Spanish Grand Prix in June, while his teammate Sergio Perez triumphed in Baku last year. Red Bull’s supremacy, which has seen them lead the constructors’ championship since 2022, is under threat if McLaren outscores them by nine points on Sunday.

Both Verstappen and Perez have been working tirelessly to address their recent struggles. “Monza was a tough race for us, and it’s our priority to get our form back,” said Verstappen. “We’ve had a good period of reflection and work since the last race.”

Perez, who has fond memories of Baku, is eager to return to a track where he has excelled. “Street circuits suit my style, and Baku is a fun track,” he said.

Ferrari, buoyed by their success at Monza, will also be a threat in Baku. Team chief Fred Vasseur emphasized the importance of consistency rather than focusing on the championship standings.

McLaren and Mercedes have also claimed recent victories, setting the stage for a close battle on the fast and challenging street track. Haas will field reserve driver Oliver Bearman alongside Nico Hulkenberg, as Kevin Magnussen serves a suspension for accumulating penalty points.

With the title race heating up, the Azerbaijan Grand Prix promises to be a pivotal moment in the 2023 Formula One season.

Basit Ali Slams PCB, Calls Promises to Fix Pakistan Cricket 'Gimmicks'

Basit Ali Slams PCB, Calls Promises to Fix Pakistan Cricket ‘Gimmicks’

Former Pakistan cricket star Basit Ali has once again criticized the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and its chairman, Mohsin Naqvi, following the team’s recent struggles. Pakistan’s humiliating Test series loss against Bangladesh and their early exit from the T20 World Cup 2024 group stages have put immense pressure on the team and its management.

Ali slammed Naqvi’s leadership, stating that his promises to fix Pakistan’s cricket are mere “gimmicks.” He cited the views of Indian cricket legends Sourav Ganguly and Ravichandran Ashwin, who have also expressed concerns about Pakistan’s decline.

“Mohsin Naqvi, please open your eyes,” Ali said on YouTube. “You say you will fix Pakistan’s cricket, but it cannot happen like this. It is the bitter truth.”

Ali pointed out that Ashwin had questioned the lack of quality spinners in Pakistan, while Ganguly had commented on the deterioration of Pakistan’s cricket. “The promises made to fix Pakistan’s cricket are nothing but gimmicks,” Ali asserted.

Meanwhile, former Pakistan spinner Saeed Ajmal called for the resumption of cricket matches between Pakistan and India in their respective countries. He emphasized the strong bond between the two nations and the immense popularity of such matches.

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

Pakistan last toured India in 2012/13, while India’s last visit to Pakistan was in 2008. Since 2007, there has been no Test series between the two teams due to political tensions.

Rain Threatens to Wash Out Afghanistan's Historic Test Debut

Rain Threatens to Wash Out Afghanistan’s Historic Test Debut

Persistent rain has cast a shadow over the inaugural Test match between Afghanistan and New Zealand at the Greater Noida Sports Complex Complex near New Delhi. The relentless downpour has prevented any play for four consecutive days, leaving the fate of the match hanging in the balance.

This Test marks a significant milestone for Afghanistan, as it is their first at their adopted home ground. However, the incessant rain has rendered the field unplayable, with umpires deeming it too wet for play after an inspection at the scheduled start time of 9:30 am local time. Even the toss has yet to take place.

Afghanistan’s Test debut has been marred by the weather, as this is only their 10th Test since gaining Test status in 2017. New Zealand, led by Tim Southee, are scheduled to embark on a two-Test tour of Sri Lanka after the scheduled final day on Friday. They will then return to the subcontinent for three more Tests against India.

Greater Noida is hosting its first Test match, but the venue has faced criticism for inadequate facilities, particularly its poor drainage system. Attempts to dry the field using hand-held electric fans earlier in the week proved futile due to the ongoing rain.

Afghanistan, unable to host matches at home due to security concerns, have been using the Greater Noida ground for several T20Is and ODIs since 2017, thanks to an offer from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to use its facilities. However, the wet weather has exposed the venue’s limitations in handling such conditions.

The persistent rain has raised questions about the suitability of Greater Noida as a Test venue, especially during the monsoon season. The BCCI, which is responsible for the upkeep of the ground, will likely face scrutiny over the drainage system and other facilities.

As the rain continues to pour, the hopes of a competitive Test match between Afghanistan and New Zealand dwindle. The match is now in danger of being abandoned, which would be a disappointing outcome for both teams and the fans who have been eagerly anticipating this historic encounter.

Argentina Goalkeeper Martinez Accused of Assaulting Cameraman

Argentina Goalkeeper Martinez Accused of Assaulting Cameraman

Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez has been accused of assaulting a cameraman after his team’s 2-1 loss to Colombia in a FIFA World Cup qualification match. The incident occurred in Barranquilla, where Martinez was seen pushing a camera away after a frustrating match in which he faced constant boos from the Colombian crowd.

Jhonny Jackson, the cameraman for Caracol Television and RCN Deportes, alleged that Martinez “slapped” him. Jackson stated that he pointed the camera at Martinez when the goalkeeper was shaking hands with another player. “Out of the blue, he slapped me. I felt angry, very angry. I was working, just like he was,” Jackson told RCN Deportes.

The Colombia Association of Sports Journalists (ACORD) has called on FIFA to take action against Martinez. “As the journalistic authority in this country, ACORD wants FIFA to produce an exemplary sanction against Mr. Emiliano Dibú Martínez, who is no role model for new generations,” said ACORD president Faiver Hoyos Hernández in a statement.

However, AP reports that Jackson later sent a reconciliatory message to Martinez. “Dibu, my brother, how are you? I am Jhonny Jackson, the cameraman you assaulted in the match against Colombia. I wanted to tell you it is all good, my brother. Everyone has lost a match in their life. This defeat clearly meant a lot to you. But look ahead, Dibu,” Jackson said.

In the match itself, Colombia avenged their Copa America final loss to Argentina with a 2-1 victory. Captain James Rodriguez scored from the penalty spot and assisted on the opening goal by Yerson Mosquera. Argentina equalized through Nico Gonzalez, but Rodriguez’s penalty in the 60th minute secured the win for Colombia.

Despite the loss, Argentina remain top of the South American World Cup qualifying standings with 18 points after eight matches, two points ahead of Colombia. All teams have two more qualifying matches next month, with the top six teams earning automatic spots at the 2026 World Cup.

India's Test Schedule Packed with WTC Implications

India’s Test Schedule Packed with WTC Implications

India’s Test cricket schedule for the next nine months is jam-packed, with a home series against Bangladesh, a tour of Australia for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, and the World Test Championship (WTC) final in London.

Currently, India leads the WTC standings with a win percentage of 68.52%, followed by Australia at 62.5%. New Zealand, the reigning WTC champions, are third with 50%.

India’s upcoming series against Bangladesh and New Zealand are crucial for their WTC aspirations. They need to win seven of their next 10 Tests to maintain their current win percentage. This is achievable if they sweep both series at home.

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia will be a major test for India. They need to win at least two Tests Down Under to stay on top of the WTC table.

According to calculations by the Royal Challengers Bengaluru website, India needs to add 63 points to their current tally of 74 to finish in the top two of the WTC. This means they need to win at least five Tests and draw one in their next 10 matches.

Australia, who have seven Tests remaining, need 47 points to stay above 60% win percentage. They need four wins or three wins and a draw to achieve this.

New Zealand, with five Tests remaining in Asia, need six wins or five wins and a draw to end up with a win percentage of above 60%.

The WTC final will be played at Lord’s Cricket Ground in London from June 11. The top two teams from the WTC points table will contest the final.

Rain Ruins Historic Afghanistan-New Zealand Test

Rain Ruins Historic Afghanistan-New Zealand Test

Unrelenting Rain Forces Abandonment of Historic Afghanistan-New Zealand Test

Greater Noida, India – The inaugural Test match between Afghanistan and New Zealand has been abandoned without a ball being bowled due to incessant rainfall that has plagued the venue for the past seven days.

The relentless downpour has left the outfield waterlogged and unplayable, making it impossible to conduct any meaningful cricket. The decision to abandon the match was made before the scheduled start time on the second day, leaving both teams disappointed and fans heartbroken.

“There has been more than 1200 mm of rain over seven days,” a broadcast message stated. “The scale of rainfall has made it absolutely impossible for cricket today. We are going to come back on day five just in case, but the reality is there will be absolutely no prospect of play. We can’t envisage anything else but an abandonment very early tomorrow morning.”

This marks the first time since 1998 that a men’s Test match has been abandoned without a ball being bowled. The previous instance occurred in Dunedin, New Zealand, during India’s tour of the country.

The abandonment of the Afghanistan-New Zealand Test is a major setback for both teams, who were eager to make history in this historic encounter. Afghanistan was playing its first-ever Test match, while New Zealand was looking to extend its impressive record in the format.

The weather conditions have also taken a toll on the players and support staff, who have been forced to endure long delays and uncertainty. The abandonment of the match will undoubtedly leave a bitter taste in the mouths of all involved.

India-Bangladesh Test in Kanpur to Proceed Despite Protest Threats

India-Bangladesh Test in Kanpur to Proceed Despite Protest Threats

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has confirmed that the second Test match between India and Bangladesh will proceed as scheduled in Kanpur on September 27, despite threats of protests.

The decision comes after concerns arose following threats issued by the Hindu Mahasabha regarding alleged violence against Hindus in Bangladesh. However, a BCCI source has stated that they are not considering alternative venues and the match will take place as planned.

“We are monitoring the situation with the concerned authorities, but we have done everything to hold that match,” the source told India Today. “The stadium is ready to welcome our and visitors’ teams. It’s not going anywhere. It will be in Kanpur, but we will keep monitoring the situation.”

Meanwhile, Bangladesh batter Litton Das has revealed that the team is adjusting to the SG balls ahead of the series. Bangladesh typically uses Kookaburra balls in home internationals, but India uses SG balls, which have a more prominent seam.

“The ball will be a different one in India,” Das said. “It is a little harder to play against the SG ball. The Kookaburra ball is easier to play when it gets old. It is the opposite with the SG ball. It is harder to get away against the old ball when it’s the SG.”

India’s squad for the first Test against Bangladesh includes Rohit Sharma (C), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (WK), Dhruv Jurel (WK), R Ashwin, R Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Akash Deep, Jasprit Bumrah, and Yash Dayal.

Home
Shop
Wishlist0
Back to Top

Search For Products

Product has been added to your cart