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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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Saina Nehwal Defends Olympic Medal Comments Amid Criticism

Saina Nehwal Defends Olympic Medal Comments Amid Criticism

By September 9, 2024 0

Saina Nehwal’s historic bronze medal at the 2012 London Olympics marked a watershed moment for Indian badminton. As the first Indian to achieve an Olympic medal in the sport, her triumph paved the way for India’s current dominance on the international stage.

Recently, Saina’s comments on the 2024 Paris Olympics sparked controversy. She criticized wrestler Vinesh Phogat for missing her weight cut and being disqualified from her gold medal match. However, Saina and her husband, Parupalli Kashyap, have defended her remarks.

“During the Paris Olympics, she expressed her opinion, and in the comments (on social media), I saw people saying that she got gifted the bronze medal,” Kashyap said. “Try and get yourself up to the level of the Olympics,” Saina retorted.

Saina’s bronze medal came after her opponent, Wang Xin, retired with an injury during the second game. “She was not the kind of player who showed any pain or emotions on court,” Saina recalled. “But I could see it in her face that something was wrong.”

“I heard a light sound from her end and she just sat down,” Saina continued. “I didn’t realize that something had happened to her. The next two-three points she was struggling to walk. And then suddenly she held out her hand and I wondered what was happening here.”

India won six medals at the Paris Olympics, one less than in Tokyo 2020. However, the badminton contingent disappointed with no medals for the first time since Beijing 2008. Despite strong contenders like PV Sindhu, HS Prannoy, Satwiksairaj Rankireddy, Chirag Shetty, and Lakshya Sen, India failed to secure a podium finish.

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Pakistan Contingent Departs for SAAF Junior Athletics Championships in Chennai

Pakistan Contingent Departs for SAAF Junior Athletics Championships in Chennai

By September 9, 2024 0

Pakistan Contingent Departs for South Asian Athletics Federation Junior Championships in Chennai

A 12-member Pakistani contingent has embarked on a journey to Chennai, India, to participate in the South Asian Athletics Federation (SAAF) Junior Championships. The contingent received visas from the Indian High Commission on Saturday, paving the way for their departure.

The contingent, comprising athletes and officials, crossed the Wagah border into India and proceeded to Amritsar. From there, they boarded a flight to Chennai, where the SAAF Junior Championships will be held from September 11 to 13.

The Pakistani contingent will compete in various track and field events, including sprints, hurdles, jumps, and throws. They will face stiff competition from athletes from other South Asian countries, including India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, and the Maldives.

The SAAF Junior Championships serve as a platform for young athletes to showcase their talent and gain international experience. The event also provides an opportunity for athletes to qualify for regional and global competitions.

Pakistan has a strong tradition in athletics, having produced several world-class athletes over the years. The contingent will be hoping to continue this legacy by performing well in Chennai and bringing home medals.

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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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Rishabh Pant Destined for Test Greatness, Needs Improvement in Shorter Formats

Rishabh Pant Destined for Test Greatness, Needs Improvement in Shorter Formats

By September 9, 2024 0

Rishabh Pant’s Test prowess has earned him high praise from former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly, who believes the wicketkeeper-batter is destined for greatness in the format. However, Ganguly also urged Pant to improve his performances in shorter formats.

Pant’s return to the Test side after his horrific car accident in December 2022 has been met with anticipation. He is expected to feature in the opening Test against Bangladesh, starting on September 19 in Chennai.

“I consider Rishabh Pant one of India’s best Test batsmen,” Ganguly said at a promotional event in Kolkata. “He will be an all-time great in Tests if he keeps performing like this.”

Ganguly acknowledged Pant’s impressive performances in T20 and ODI cricket since his return from injury earlier this year. However, he emphasized the need for Pant to enhance his skills in the shorter formats.

“For me, he needs to get better in the shorter formats,” Ganguly said. “With the talent he has, I’m sure with time, he will become one of the best.”

The Indian selectors have included uncapped left-arm pacers Yash Dayal and Akash Deep in the squad, while Mohammed Shami has been given more time to recover from ankle surgery.

“It’s still a very good attack,” Ganguly said. “In India, you will see a lot more spin. Ashwin, Jadeja, Axar, and Kuldeep are the four best spinners in the world at the moment.”

Ganguly also praised Akash Deep, calling him a player to watch out for. “He runs in, bowls quick, and will bowl for long periods,” Ganguly said. “He will be as quick as Siraj and Shami, hitting high 140s.”

Bangladesh, fresh from their historic Test series win over Pakistan, will face a tough challenge in India. Ganguly believes India will be too strong for Bangladesh, but he expects a competitive series.

“India will be a different kettle of fish; India, whether at home or away, are a fantastic side with a very strong batting unit,” Ganguly said. “I don’t see Bangladesh winning; India will win the series.”

Ganguly expressed concern about the lack of talent in Pakistan cricket, which he believes has contributed to their recent struggles.

“I see a genuine dearth of talent in the country,” Ganguly said. “Every generation has to produce outstanding players to win, and when I look at Pakistan in world cricket, there is a dearth of talent in that country.”

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Harry Lee: The Cricketer Who Defied Death and Played a Test Match 15 Years Later

Harry Lee: The Cricketer Who Defied Death and Played a Test Match 15 Years Later

By September 9, 2024 0

Harry Lee, a cricketer who defied death and played a Test match 15 years after his “demise,” is a testament to the indomitable spirit of the human soul. Born in 1890, Lee was a promising cricketer for Middlesex when World War I broke out. Despite initial reluctance, he joined the British Army in 1914.

During the Battle of Aubers Ridge in 1915, Lee was shot in the thigh and presumed dead. However, he miraculously survived, lying unconscious in no man’s land for three days before being captured by German forces. After a harrowing journey to a German hospital, Lee’s wounds healed, but he exaggerated his injury to secure permission to return home.

Upon his discharge from the Army in 1915, Lee was told he would never play cricket again. Undeterred, he defied the odds and returned to the field in 1916. In 1917, he accepted an offer to coach cricket in India, where he made his first-class comeback in 1918.

Lee’s return to England in 1919 saw him continue playing for Middlesex, despite his war injury. He enjoyed a successful career, scoring over 1,000 runs in 13 of his 16 post-war seasons. In 1931, at the age of 40, Lee was called up to the England Test team for the fourth Test against South Africa.

Despite playing in the match, Lee never received his Test cap due to a dispute with a school he had coached in South Africa. However, he did receive a consolation tie from Jack Hobbs. Lee’s Test debut came 15 years after his presumed death, a remarkable feat that showcased his resilience and determination.

After retiring from playing, Lee transitioned into umpiring and coaching. He published his autobiography in 1948, recounting his extraordinary journey from the battlefields of World War I to the cricket fields of England and India. Harry Lee passed away in 1980 at the age of 90, leaving behind a legacy of courage, perseverance, and the indomitable spirit of a true sportsman.

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Shubman Gill Anticipates Intriguing Test Series Against Bangladesh

Shubman Gill Anticipates Intriguing Test Series Against Bangladesh

By September 9, 2024 0

Shubman Gill, India’s rising star in the batting order, anticipates an exciting and challenging Test series against Bangladesh. The two nations will face off in Chennai on September 19 and Kanpur on September 27.

Gill, who has amassed 1492 runs in 25 Tests, believes Bangladesh poses a formidable threat. “Their fast bowlers and middle-order batters have shown impressive resilience in recent matches,” he said. “We can’t underestimate them.”

The series marks the return of Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul, and Virat Kohli to the Test team. Gill, who has transitioned to the number three batting position, acknowledges the challenges it presents.

“When you play in a different position, you have to prove yourself,” he said. “I had a slow start at number three, but I’m determined to convert my fifties into big hundreds.”

Gill’s performance in the recent 4-1 Test series victory against England, where he scored 452 runs at number three, boosted his confidence. “It was a great experience and gave me a lot of belief,” he said.

The series against Bangladesh will provide Gill with another opportunity to showcase his skills and contribute to India’s success. With his talent and determination, he is poised to play a pivotal role in the upcoming matches.

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South Africa Rests Key Players for UAE Tour, Widens Player Pool

South Africa Rests Key Players for UAE Tour, Widens Player Pool

By September 9, 2024 0

South Africa’s white-ball squad for their upcoming tour of the UAE has been announced, with several first-choice players rested as the team prepares for the Champions Trophy.

Kagiso Rabada, Keshav Maharaj, Anrich Nortje, Marco Jansen, Tabraiz Shamsi, David Miller, and Heinrich Klaasen will all be absent from the ODI and T20I squads. Instead, the management has opted to widen the player pool and give opportunities to fringe players.

Allrounder Jason Smith, who made his T20I debut in the West Indies last month, has been given a maiden ODI call-up. Legspinner Nqabayomzi Peter, who has recovered from a shoulder injury, has also been included in the ODI squad.

21-year-old seam-bowling allrounder Andile Simelane has been named in both the ODI and T20I squads against Afghanistan. He has been part of South Africa Emerging and ‘A’ sides recently.

Lungi Ngidi, who suffered a right calf injury during the Caribbean tour, has recovered and is expected to lead the attack. However, Quinton de Kock, who has not confirmed his retirement from T20Is, does not feature.

Kwena Maphaka, who made his debut against West Indies, has not been included as he completes his final school examinations. Donovan Ferreira is the only other player from the West Indies T20I series who will not be on this tour, while Matthew Breetzke has been included in the T20I squad.

Aiden Markram, Reeza Hendricks, and Simelane are part of the ODI squad against Afghanistan, but not for the ODIs against Ireland. Rassie van der Dussen and Ryan Rickelton are present only for the Ireland ODIs.

“We have decided to give opportunities to some of the fringe players as well as those who have impressed in recent weeks and months,” said Rob Walter, South Africa’s white-ball coach. “This has been a deliberate move from management, in line with our goal of building a wider pool of players to choose from, as we prepare for the major ICC tournaments taking place over the next 18 months, with a long-term view on the 50-over World Cup in 2027.”

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Politics and Nepotism Hamper Pakistan's Cricket Performance

Politics and Nepotism Hamper Pakistan’s Cricket Performance

By September 9, 2024 0

Pakistan’s recent dismal performance in international cricket has sparked concerns about the intrusion of politics into the sport. Critics argue that nepotism and political interference at the top are hindering progress on the field.

After a humiliating 0-2 home series loss to Bangladesh, Pakistan dropped to ninth place in the Test rankings, their lowest position in nearly six decades. This followed a string of disappointing results, including early eliminations from the 50-over and T20 World Cups.

The current chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Mohsin Naqvi, is also the interior minister, a demanding full-time role in a country facing increased terrorist threats. This dual responsibility has raised questions about his ability to effectively lead the PCB.

Over the past two years, Pakistani cricket has witnessed a revolving door of coaches, board chairs, and captains, as well as multiple changes to domestic competition formats. Analysts attribute this instability to political whims.

“This has a knock-on effect on team performance,” said cricket journalist Ahsan Iftikhar Nagi. “When we have chaos and chronic instability within the management of the board, it will reflect on-field performances.”

Cricket is Pakistan’s most popular sport, with players revered as national heroes. The sport transcends social divisions and carries significant cultural and political cachet. Former prime minister Imran Khan, who led Pakistan to victory in the 1992 ODI World Cup, used his cricketing achievements to launch his political career.

Khan, who was recently imprisoned on charges he claims are politically motivated, has criticized the current state of cricket in Pakistan. He alleges that “favorites have been imposed” to run the sport and that Naqvi has “annihilated” the team.

Nepotism and favoritism are prevalent in Pakistan. Khan, who campaigned on an anti-corruption platform, is accused of using his political influence to appoint his preferred PCB chief and interfere in the game’s structure.

Journalist Najam Sethi, a former PCB chairman, believes the position has become a “sinecure” for those seeking prestige. “Generals, judges, and bureaucrats with no knowledge of the game have been appointed,” he said.

Pakistan’s last major victory was the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy. Their most recent home Test win was in February 2021. They reached the final of the 2022 T20 World Cup but suffered shock defeats to Ireland and the United States in the first round of the 2024 competition.

Naqvi and the system that appointed him have come under intense scrutiny following the Bangladesh defeat. Calls for his resignation have intensified, with the Express Tribune newspaper accusing him of “ruining” the game.

The incongruity of Naqvi’s dual roles became evident when he presided over a press conference where he discussed both a mass-casualty militant attack and cricket. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s adviser, Rana Sanaullah Khan, hinted that support for the PCB chief was waning at the top.

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