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Nikin Jose's Heroics Deny Madhya Pradesh First-Innings Lead in Ranji Trophy Opener

Nikin Jose’s Heroics Deny Madhya Pradesh First-Innings Lead in Ranji Trophy Opener

By October 14, 2024 0

Nikin Jose’s valiant 99 (216b, 8×4, 6×6) denied Madhya Pradesh the bragging rights over Karnataka as their 2024-25 Ranji Trophy Elite Group-C opener petered out to a draw at the Holkar Stadium.

The hosts, resuming on 425 for eight, set themselves a minimum of 98 overs to bowl Karnataka out and secure three points. For the visitors, gaining the lead was a distant dream, but it was an ideal opportunity to showcase their resilience and set the tone for the season ahead.

Nikin and Shreyas Gopal (60 n.o., 110b, 7×4, 1×6) rose to the challenge, rescuing Karnataka from a precarious 72 for four with a 127-run partnership. Nikin fell agonizingly short of a well-deserved century, trapped leg-before by left-arm spinner Kumar Kartikeya minutes before tea.

However, the 24-year-old, who had endured a disappointing 2023-24 campaign, had already made a significant impact on both his team and himself. At 206 for five, bad light and a slight drizzle officially ended proceedings, giving both sides a point each.

Nikin, who opened the innings, weathered the early onslaught of off-spinner Saransh Jain and Kartikeya, who bowled 32 of the 37 overs in the morning session as the new cherry gripped, turned, and bounced. Mayank Agarwal and Manish Pandey were both caught by close-in fielders off Kartikeya, while Devdutt Padikkal paid the price for playing back to Saransh’s delivery that slid and thudded into the pads.

Debutant R. Smaran concentrated hard (17, 51b, 1×4, 1×6), but had his off-stump rearranged by Saransh while trying to guard against the one that would hold its line. From there on, Nikin and Shreyas dug in. After safely negotiating until lunch, the duo scored briskly, collecting 46 runs from the next 10 overs. Nikin, after impressing with his cut shots early, slapped Saransh for a four and six down the ground. The half-century was had by flicking Avesh Khan to the mid-wicket fence.

Shreyas, who was reprieved by Rajat Patidar at backward short-leg when on six, played the ideal foil, nudging, driving, and sweeping his way to his 15th First Class fifty. Nikin moved into the 90s with towering back-to-back maximums off Saransh. Kartikeya spared his spin partner of further misery, but it came a tad too late.

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Tennis Stars Tiafoe and Mannarino Spread Joy at Autism Center in Almaty

Tennis Stars Tiafoe and Mannarino Spread Joy at Autism Center in Almaty

By October 14, 2024 0

Frances Tiafoe and Adrian Mannarino, two renowned tennis stars, recently visited the inaugural Asyl Miras Autism Center in Almaty, Kazakhstan. Their visit aimed to bring joy to the children and families affected by autism spectrum disorders (ASD).

Upon arrival, Tiafoe and Mannarino distributed gifts and received heartfelt drawings from the children. They were particularly impressed by Aibek, a charming youngster who greeted everyone with a warm handshake and “Salam Alaikum.” Aruna, another child, engaged in a lively conversation with Mannarino, showcasing her impressive English skills.

Tiafoe and Mannarino engaged in developmental games with Aibek and Aruna, focusing on alphabet recognition and character building. Tiafoe was particularly struck by Aibek’s infectious personality, stating, “That kid had way more personality than I do. And that says a lot, as I’ve got a wild personality.”

The visit provided a valuable perspective for the tennis stars. Tiafoe reflected, “It builds a level of perspective. Sometimes it’s so easy to look inward at what you’re doing, complain about your life and things like that. Ultimately a lot of people have it way harder.”

Mannarino echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of giving back to the community. “I think it’s pretty important for us whenever we get some free time to give back to other people and trying to share a little bit of happiness with them, share some good moments.”

The Asyl Miras Autism Center is part of a larger project by the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation, which has established 13 centers across Kazakhstan. Since its inception, the foundation has provided free care, education, and resources to over 16,000 children with ASD.

Tiafoe and Mannarino were inspired by the foundation’s mission and the progress made in understanding and supporting individuals with ASD. They acknowledged the need for continued global efforts to create a truly inclusive society.

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BPL Draft: Taskin Ahmed, Mahmudullah Headline First-Round Picks

BPL Draft: Taskin Ahmed, Mahmudullah Headline First-Round Picks

By October 14, 2024 0

The Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) draft for the 2024-25 season witnessed a flurry of activity as teams eagerly snapped up top-tier talent. Taskin Ahmed, the seasoned fast bowler, emerged as the first overall pick, joining the newly formed Durbar Rajshahi franchise. Defending champions Fortune Barishal opted for Mahmudullah, the recently retired T20I star, with the seventh pick.

Other notable first-round selections included fast bowlers Hasan Mahmud (Khulna Tigers) and Nahid Rana (Rangpur Riders), as well as established batters Litton Das (Dhaka Capitals), Shamim Hossain (Chittagong Kings), and Rony Talukdar (Sylhet Strikers).

Despite their Category A status, legspinner Rishad Hossain and T20I captain Najmul Hossain Shanto went unpicked in the first round. However, Barishal later acquired both players with the 15th and 43rd overall picks, respectively. Shanto’s recent form has been underwhelming, while Rishad’s availability remains uncertain due to his BBL contract with the Hobart Hurricanes.

Sylhet Strikers, who retained several key players from last season, added veteran all-rounder Mashrafe Mortaza to their ranks. They also secured the services of overseas stars Reece Topley, Rahkeem Cornwall, and Samiullah Shenwari.

Barishal, the defending champions, retained Tamim Iqbal and Mushfiqur Rahim while directly signing a host of international players, including Dawid Malan, Kyle Mayers, Mohammad Nabi, and Faheem Ashraf. They also picked up Sri Lankan batter Pathum Nissanka, who will be available for a limited period during the BPL.

Pakistani cricketers Saim Ayub, Akif Javed, and Mohammad Hasnain were among the first overseas players selected, followed by James Fuller (Barishal) and Graham Clark (Chittagong).

Uncapped Bangladeshi players also made their mark in the draft, with Nahid Rana, Habibur Rahman Sohan, and Jishan Alam being early picks.

The BPL teams have until the tournament’s scheduled start date of December 27 to continue signing players directly. The new season will feature a mix of established franchises (Barishal, Khulna, Sylhet, and Rangpur) and new entrants (Dhaka, Chittagong, and Rajshahi).

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Rain and Light Mar Day Three of Ranji Trophy Opener in Indore

Rain and Light Mar Day Three of Ranji Trophy Opener in Indore

By October 14, 2024 0

Indore’s Holkar Stadium witnessed a frustrating day three of the Ranji Trophy Elite Group C opener between Madhya Pradesh and Karnataka as inclement weather and poor light conditions halted play prematurely.

After the opening day was washed out without a ball being bowled, Sunday’s proceedings began under clear skies and sunshine. However, only 57 overs could be completed before light worsened, forcing an early tea break. Two rounds of rain subsequently brought an end to the day’s play.

At stumps, Madhya Pradesh had reached 425 for eight in their first innings, thanks to a solid batting performance led by skipper Shubham Sharma. Sharma, who had retired hurt on day one, returned to notch up his ninth First-Class century, scoring an unbeaten 143 off 243 deliveries.

The 30-year-old exhibited a textbook approach to batting, playing with patience and precision. He defended resolutely, played close to his body, and always timed the ball well.

Karnataka’s bowlers, led by speedster V. Vyshak, started strongly. Vyshak dismissed Venkatesh Iyer in the second over of the day, while Harpreet Singh Bhatia was castled by V. Koushik for 91.

However, Shubham and Saransh Jain (51 off 128 balls) steadied the Madhya Pradesh innings, putting on a 131-run partnership for the seventh wicket. This partnership ensured that Karnataka would likely only earn a single point from the match.

Karnataka’s absence of lead pacer Prasidh Krishna was keenly felt. Krishna, who had returned from a quadriceps injury in the Duleep Trophy, walked off the field on day one after bowling just eight overs. His absence left a void in the Karnataka attack, which struggled to make consistent breakthroughs.

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Manjrekar Praises India Women's Team for Brave Fight Against Australia

Manjrekar Praises India Women’s Team for Brave Fight Against Australia

By October 14, 2024 0

Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar has lauded captain Harmanpreet Kaur and the women’s team for their valiant effort against Australia in their T20 World Cup 2024 match in Sharjah on Sunday. Despite a heartbreaking loss, Manjrekar praised the team’s determination and Harmanpreet’s leadership.

The Indian women’s team fell short by 14 runs in their pursuit of Australia’s 150-run target, with Harmanpreet scoring an unbeaten 54 off 47 balls. Manjrekar believes that no other team could have come as close to the target on a challenging pitch.

“No other team other than India would have come so close to the big target Aus set on a difficult pitch. I say, well done India! And again what a star Harman is!” Manjrekar tweeted.

However, fans expressed frustration with Manjrekar’s comments, calling them an “excuse” for the team’s failure to win. They argued that the team should be held accountable for their performance, regardless of the pitch conditions.

Manjrekar defended his stance, stating that Harmanpreet’s unbeaten knock showcased her caliber. “Harmanpreet Kaur showed in the end why she is so great. She almost won the match. The pitch was very tricky, the score was almost like chasing 250, and they reached so close. It’s a matter of great pride for me,” he said on Star Sports.

He also praised the team’s overall performance, highlighting their ability to score runs without Smriti Mandhana’s contribution and their effective bowling.

“The Indian team touched new heights today. This was a very important match… the batters kept scoring without Mandhana’s contribution, and the bowling was good,” he added.

Manjrekar believes that the team’s performance against Australia is a testament to their progress and potential. “They set an excellent score on the tough pitch in Sharjah. They set 150 where the average score is around 115. India almost won this match. So they reached close to Mount Everest, they reached the third or fourth base,” he explained.

Despite the loss, Manjrekar remains optimistic about the team’s future. He believes that they have the talent and determination to achieve success in the future.

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Pant's Humor Lightens India's Test Preparations

Pant’s Humor Lightens India’s Test Preparations

By October 14, 2024 0

Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant injected a dose of humor into India’s practice session ahead of the highly anticipated home Test series against New Zealand. In a lighthearted exchange with young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal, Pant joked about sharing a chair, creating a playful moment amidst the intense preparations.

In a video posted on Pant’s social media handle, the 27-year-old keeper playfully asked Jaiswal, “Chair chahiye kya tereko?” (Do you need a chair?). With only one free chair available, Pant cheekily added, “Yeh toh nahi dunga” (I won’t give it to you), leaving both cricketers in laughter.

Beyond the banter, Pant displayed his serious side, practicing various shots in the nets. The video captures him working on a wide range of strokes, hinting at the explosive form he aims to carry into the upcoming series.

India has announced a formidable 15-member squad for the three-match Test series, which begins on October 16 in Bengaluru as part of the ICC World Test Championship. The team is led by Rohit Sharma, with fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah serving as vice-captain. Bumrah’s elevation to deputy comes as India prepare for the grueling five-Test tour of Australia next month.

However, the squad will miss the services of experienced pacer Mohammed Shami, who is recovering from ankle surgery. Shami sustained the injury during the 2023 ODI World Cup and will sit out the entire New Zealand series. Meanwhile, left-arm pacer Yash Dayal, part of the squad for the Bangladesh series, has been omitted.

Despite the changes, India, having recently swept Bangladesh 2-0, remain focused on extending their lead at the top of the World Test Championship standings. The team will be eager to put on a strong performance against New Zealand and continue their dominance in the longest format of the game.

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Sanju Samson Receives Hero's Welcome After Maiden T20I Century

Sanju Samson Receives Hero’s Welcome After Maiden T20I Century

By October 14, 2024 0

Thiruvananthapuram MP Shashi Tharoor accorded a grand welcome to Indian cricket star Sanju Samson upon his return to Kerala after his explosive maiden T20I century against Bangladesh.

Samson’s scintillating knock of 111 off just 47 balls powered India to a record total of 297/6, their highest-ever score in T20I history by a full-member ICC nation. His innings, featuring 11 fours and eight sixes, also earned him the distinction of hitting the second-fastest T20I century by an Indian, reaching the milestone in just 40 balls.

This extraordinary performance helped India complete a 3-0 clean sweep of the series with a commanding 133-run victory in the final game on Saturday.

Reflecting on his breakthrough performance, Samson expressed a mixture of relief and determination. “(I am) very happy that they (teammates) are happy I did well. It can get frustrating knowing what you can do out there, and I have also felt I can do much better,” he admitted during the post-match presentation.

The Kerala-born cricketer also acknowledged the challenges of inconsistent form but emphasized the importance of staying focused. “Playing for your country, that pressure was there, but I wanted to perform and wanted to show. But I still kept it basic and wanted to take it by one ball (at a time),” Samson shared.

Samson credited the team leadership for standing by him through ups and downs. “The leadership tells me they back me no matter what… not just in words but in actions also. Last series, I got two ducks and went back to Kerala thinking what will happen, but I’m here,” he said, grateful for the faith shown in him.

Tharoor, in his social media post, celebrated Samson’s homecoming and honored him with a “ponnada,” a blue ceremonial shawl, in recognition of his achievements.

Samson’s maiden T20I century has not only cemented his place in the Indian team but has also inspired aspiring cricketers across the country. His journey from a small town in Kerala to the international stage is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and unwavering belief in his abilities.

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Kamindu Mendis Wins ICC Men's Player of the Month Award for Second Time in 2024

Kamindu Mendis Wins ICC Men’s Player of the Month Award for Second Time in 2024

By October 14, 2024 0

Sri Lanka’s batting sensation Kamindu Mendis has once again etched his name in cricket history by becoming the first player to win the ICC Men’s Player of the Month award twice in a calendar year. Mendis’ exceptional performances in September, where he amassed 451 runs in four Tests at an astonishing average of 90.20, earned him the prestigious accolade.

Mendis’ month-long brilliance began at The Oval in England, where he played a pivotal role in Sri Lanka’s consolation victory. His contributions continued in the subsequent series against New Zealand back home, where he played a key role in Sri Lanka’s series triumph. Notably, Mendis scored two centuries during this period, further cementing his status as a rising star in the cricketing world.

The ICC’s statement highlighted Mendis’ remarkable achievements, stating that he “beat out tough competition from Sri Lanka teammate Prabath Jayasuriya and Australia’s Travis Head to claim the monthly award.” Mendis’ consistent performances and ability to deliver under pressure have earned him widespread recognition and admiration.

Mendis expressed his delight at winning the award for the second time this year, acknowledging the hard work and dedication that have fueled his success. “I am honored to be once again chosen as the ICC Men’s Player of the Month,” he said. “This accolade brings me immense happiness and pride, as I believe all the hard work that was put into becoming the player that I am today is starting to pay off and being recognized consistently in the global stage.”

Mendis’ hunger for success is evident in his unwavering determination to achieve even greater heights. “This recognition gives me further strength to continue my good work on the cricketing field and aspire for bigger achievements, thus helping my team win games and bring glory to our country and happiness to our fans,” he added.

During September, Mendis became the first men’s player in history to pass fifty in each of the first eight matches of his Test career. His exceptional run-scoring spree continued as he became the fastest batter in 75 years to reach 1,000 Test runs, matching the legendary Don Bradman’s feat of achieving the milestone in just 13 innings.

Mendis’ most impressive performance of the month came in the second Test against New Zealand, where he scored a dominant 182* in Sri Lanka’s mammoth first-innings total of 602/5 declared. His knock played a crucial role in setting up a convincing victory for his team. However, his 114 in the first innings of the first Test of the same series was arguably even more impressive.

With Sri Lanka in trouble at 88/3, Mendis’ arrival at the crease proved pivotal. His resilient innings, coupled with Angelo Mathews’ contribution, helped Sri Lanka recover and eventually win the match by a narrow margin of 63 runs.

In eight Tests so far, Mendis has amassed an astonishing 1,004 runs at an exceptional average of 91.27. His tally includes five centuries and four fifties in just 13 innings, with his highest score being 182*. Mendis’ consistent performances have not only earned him individual accolades but have also played a significant role in Sri Lanka’s recent successes.

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Pakistan Fields Spin-Heavy Attack for Second Test Against England

Pakistan Fields Spin-Heavy Attack for Second Test Against England

By October 14, 2024 0

Pakistan’s Test team has undergone a significant transformation for the second Test against England, opting for a spin-heavy attack on the same pitch that witnessed England’s record-breaking performance in the first Test. This drastic change in strategy reflects a shift in Pakistan’s approach to home pitches, with assistant coach Azhar Mahmood revealing that they had planned to prepare spin-friendly surfaces for England.

Despite the expectation that the pitch would begin to turn from the second day in the first Test, Pakistan’s lineup featured only one specialist spinner, Abrar Ahmed. However, for the second Test, they have lined up with three spinners: Zahid Mahmood, Noman Ali, and Sajid Khan. This will be the first time Pakistan has played a men’s Test with only one fast bowler, Aamer Jamal.

The decision to field three spinners stems from Pakistan’s belief that spin is the best way to take 20 wickets against England on this particular pitch. Mahmood emphasized the importance of taking wickets and expressed confidence in the experience of the incoming spinners, despite their lack of recent first-class matches.

However, the exclusion of Babar Azam from the team has raised eyebrows. Mahmood insists that it is a “rest” rather than a “drop,” citing Pakistan’s upcoming schedule. However, some question why the upcoming white-ball tours could not serve as a more appropriate avenue for rotation, given the significance of the home Test series against England.

The fielding of three spinners in addition to Salman Agha, who Mahmood previously described as a “specialist spinner,” indicates Pakistan’s belief that the pitch will take turn. They have left grass on the surface to encourage spin and hope it will work in their favor.

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