Afghanistan Names Three Uncapped Players for New Zealand Test

Afghanistan Names Three Uncapped Players for New Zealand Test

Afghanistan has announced its 16-member squad for the upcoming one-off Test against New Zealand, scheduled to commence on March 9 in Greater Noida. The squad features three uncapped players: opening batter Riaz Hassan, offspin allrounder Shamsurrahman, and pacer Khalil Ahmed.

In the absence of injured star spinner Rashid Khan, Zahir Khan and Zia-ur-Rehman will spearhead the spin attack. Fast bowler Naveed Zadran, who impressed with a five-wicket haul in the Test against Ireland, has been ruled out due to a side strain.

The squad was finalized after a ten-day preparation camp in Greater Noida, where 19 players participated. Captain Hashmatullah Shahidi and the coaching staff consulted to select the final 16.

Ikram Alikhil and Afsar Zazai will compete for the wicketkeeper’s role. The squad also includes experienced players like Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmat Shah, and Abdul Malik.

Afghanistan will be eager to make a strong impression against New Zealand, who are ranked sixth in the ICC Test rankings. The match will be a crucial test for the Afghan team, which is aiming to improve its standing in the Test arena.

Alyssa Healy Ranks “The Fab Four” Batters: Kohli at the Bottom

The modern era of cricket has been graced by four exceptional batters who have dominated the sport: Virat Kohli, Joe Root, Steve Smith, and Kane Williamson. Known as “The Fab Four,” these players have etched their names in cricket history with their remarkable performances. However, the debate over who stands as the greatest among them continues to ignite discussions.

Recently, legendary Australian women’s cricket star Alyssa Healy weighed in on the topic, offering her analytical perspective. While acknowledging the greatness of all four batters, Healy placed Virat Kohli at the bottom of her ranking.

“If I’m purely basing it on numbers, I’m going to put Kohli as fourth,” Healy explained. “But I actually rate him as No. 1 in everything else.”

Healy’s reasoning stems from the sheer volume of cricket Kohli plays and the immense pressure he faces. Despite his impressive statistics, Healy believes that Kohli’s numbers are slightly diminished by the support he receives from his teammates.

In contrast, Healy placed Kane Williamson at the top of her list. She highlighted Williamson’s ability to carry the entire New Zealand team on his shoulders, playing a pivotal role in their success.

“Williamson has carried the whole New Zealand team,” Healy said. “If he doesn’t make those runs, New Zealand don’t get anywhere near winning.”

Healy also ranked Joe Root third and Steve Smith second, citing their consistent performances and impact on their respective teams.

The debate over who is the greatest among “The Fab Four” is likely to continue for years to come. However, Healy’s analytical approach provides a fresh perspective on the topic, highlighting the unique strengths and contributions of each player.

Sachin Tendulkar: The Master of Centuries

Sachin Tendulkar: The Master of Centuries

Sachin Tendulkar, the legendary Indian cricketer, holds the unparalleled record of being the only batter in international cricket history to score 100 centuries. His illustrious career was marked by numerous landmark centuries that showcased his exceptional talent and unwavering determination.

Early Milestones:

Tendulkar’s first Test century came at the tender age of 17, when he scored a match-saving 119 against England at Old Trafford in 1990. This remarkable innings announced his arrival on the global stage and established him as a rising star. In 1994, he achieved his maiden ODI century, scoring 110 against Australia in Colombo.

Conquering Australia:

Tendulkar’s first century on Australian soil came in 1992 at Perth, a notoriously fast and bouncy pitch. His 114-run knock demonstrated his adaptability and technical prowess.

World Cup Glory:

Sachin’s first World Cup century came in the 1996 edition against Kenya. His unbeaten 127 in Cuttack showcased his ability to perform under pressure and inspire his team.

Record-Breaking Centuries:

On September 25, 1998, Tendulkar set a new world record by scoring his 18th ODI century in his 191st innings. This surpassed Desmond Haynes’ previous record of 17 centuries. In 2005, he surpassed Sunil Gavaskar’s long-standing record for the most Test centuries, becoming the player with 35 tons in the longest format of the game.

Unprecedented Achievements:

Tendulkar became the first player in ODI history to score a double century, setting a world record with his 200 in Gwalior against South Africa in 2010. He also became the first player to score 50 Test centuries, a milestone he achieved in 2010 against South Africa.

The 100th Century:

In 2012, Tendulkar reached the pinnacle of his career by becoming the first cricketer to score 100 international centuries. This historic feat came during an Asia Cup match against Bangladesh.

Legacy and Impact:

Sachin Tendulkar’s remarkable achievements have cemented his status as one of the greatest cricketers of all time. His centuries were not just statistical milestones but moments of brilliance that inspired generations of cricketers and fans alike. His legacy continues to inspire and motivate aspiring cricketers around the world.

Fan Invades Pitch to Touch Ruturaj Gaikwad's Feet, Echoing Dhoni's Reverence

Fan Invades Pitch to Touch Ruturaj Gaikwad’s Feet, Echoing Dhoni’s Reverence

Ruturaj Gaikwad’s Star Power Shines as Fan Invades Pitch to Touch His Feet

In a heartwarming display of admiration, a fan breached the field during the Duleep Trophy 2024 match between India C and India D to express his reverence for Ruturaj Gaikwad. The incident, reminiscent of a similar moment involving MS Dhoni in IPL 2023, highlights the growing popularity of the young Indian cricketer.

Gaikwad, leading India C, was caught off guard as the fan rushed onto the field and touched his feet. The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper, known for his composure, remained calm and gently helped the fan up, shaking his hand.

This incident underscores Gaikwad’s rising star status in Indian cricket. The 27-year-old, a protégé of Dhoni at CSK, has quickly amassed a loyal fan base. His impressive performances, including a century in the recent Ranji Trophy, have earned him widespread recognition.

On the field, India D, led by Shreyas Iyer, held a 202-run lead at stumps on Day 2. Despite promising knocks from Devdutt Padikkal (56) and Iyer (54), India D were struggling at 206/8 in their second innings. India C, on the other hand, had been bowled out for 168 in their first innings, with Gaikwad contributing only five runs.

Gaikwad’s moment with the fan added a touch of drama to the intense contest. As the Duleep Trophy progresses, the spotlight remains on Gaikwad’s leadership and his ability to inspire his team to victory.

Rahul Dravid Appointed as Rajasthan Royals' New Head Coach

Rahul Dravid Appointed as Rajasthan Royals’ New Head Coach

Rahul Dravid, the legendary Indian cricketer and coach, has been appointed as the new head coach of Rajasthan Royals (RR) for a multi-year term. This marks Dravid’s return to the IPL after a three-year hiatus, during which he served as the head coach of the Indian men’s team and guided them to their first ICC title in 11 years.

Dravid expressed his excitement about joining RR, a franchise he has a long-standing connection with. He captained the team in 2012 and 2013, and served as their team mentor in 2014 and 2015. “I am pleased to be returning to the franchise I have called ‘home’ for a number of years in the past,” Dravid said. “After the World Cup, I feel it’s the ideal time for me to take on another challenge, and the Royals is the perfect place to do that.”

Dravid’s appointment is a significant boost for RR, who have not won the IPL title since the inaugural season in 2008. Their best finish since then was in 2022, when they finished runners-up to Gujarat Titans. RR CEO Jake Lush McCrum expressed his delight at Dravid’s return to the franchise. “His exceptional coaching capabilities are evident with the transformation he’s driven in Indian cricket,” McCrum said. “He also has a deep connection to the franchise, and we’ve seen that passion come through in all our conversations.”

Dravid will work closely with RR’s director of cricket, Kumar Sangakkara, to implement the franchise’s overall cricketing strategy. He will also play a key role in player retention and recruitment ahead of the upcoming mega auction. Dravid’s long-standing working relationship with RR captain Sanju Samson, who came through the under-19 ranks under Dravid’s watch, is expected to be a major asset for the team.

With Dravid at the helm, RR will be hoping to challenge for their second IPL title. His experience, tactical acumen, and ability to inspire players will be invaluable to the team as they look to build a strong and successful squad.

Rahul Dravid Appointed Head Coach of Rajasthan Royals

Rahul Dravid Appointed Head Coach of Rajasthan Royals

Rahul Dravid Returns to Rajasthan Royals as Head Coach

Former Indian captain and coach Rahul Dravid has been appointed as the Head Coach of the Rajasthan Royals for a multi-year contract. Dravid, who previously spent five seasons with the Royals from 2011 to 2015, will begin his tenure immediately.

Dravid’s return to the Royals marks a significant moment for the franchise. He brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the role, having coached the Indian men’s U19 and senior teams, as well as serving as the Director of Cricket at the National Cricket Academy (NCA).

Under Dravid’s guidance, the Indian team recently clinched the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup crown. His ability to nurture talent and enable players to perform consistently at the highest level is highly valued by the Royals.

“I am pleased to be returning to the franchise I have called ‘home’ for a number of years in the past,” said Dravid. “After the World Cup, I feel it’s the ideal time for me to take on another challenge, and the Royals is the perfect place to do that.”

Royals’ Director of Cricket Kumar Sangakkara expressed his excitement about Dravid’s appointment. “Rahul is one of the greatest players to have played the game, but what he has achieved over the past decade as a coach is extraordinary,” said Sangakkara. “His characteristics as a coach will allow the Rajasthan Royals to further challenge for the title.”

Dravid will work closely with Sangakkara to implement the franchise’s cricketing strategy. The duo will aim to build a strong and competitive team that can challenge for the IPL title.

Harvinder Singh, Preethi Pal to be India's Flag Bearers at Paralympics Closing Ceremony

Harvinder Singh, Preethi Pal to be India’s Flag Bearers at Paralympics Closing Ceremony

Gold medal-winning archer Harvinder Singh and sprinter Preethi Pal, who made history by becoming the first-ever Indian woman to win two medals at the Paralympics, will be the country’s flag bearers during the closing ceremony of the Paris Games on Sunday.

Harvinder, 33, who had also scripted history by becoming the first Indian archer to clinch a gold at the Paralympics to add to the bronze he won in Tokyo in 2021, said carrying the country’s flag during the closing ceremony was the highest honor he could have dreamed of.

“Winning gold for India has been a dream come true, and now leading our nation as a flag-bearer at the closing ceremony is the highest honor I could imagine. This victory is for everyone who believed in me, and I hope to inspire many more to pursue their dreams,” said the Haryana-based Harvinder, who has impairment in both legs since he was a toddler.

Preethi, 23, who clinched bronze medals in women’s T35 100m and 200m competitions with personal best timings of 14.21 and 30.01 seconds respectively, said she was thrilled with the news.

“It is a great honor to represent India as a flag bearer. This moment is not just about me; it’s about every para-athlete who has pushed their limits to make our nation proud. I am thrilled to be leading our incredible team at the closing ceremony.” Preeti, born in Uttar Pradesh, is a T35 athlete, who suffers from coordination impairments such as hypertonia, ataxia, and athetosis.

The Indian contingent’s chef de mission Satya Prakash Sangwan said in a statement that the two athletes’ performance will inspire future generations.

“Harvinder Singh’s historic gold in archery and Preethi Pal’s stellar performance in athletics have made them true ambassadors of our nation’s grit and determination.”

“Their role as flag-bearers at the closing ceremony is a symbol of the incredible journey our athletes have undertaken. Their achievements inspire us all, and I am confident they will continue to motivate future generations of para-athletes,” said Sangwan.

India has so far won 26 medals, including six gold and nine silver, which is their best-ever performance at the Paralympics.

Nathan Ellis Ruled Out of Scotland and England Series with Hamstring Injury

Nathan Ellis Ruled Out of Scotland and England Series with Hamstring Injury

Nathan Ellis’s hopes of cementing his place in Australia’s T20I side have been dashed by a hamstring injury sustained during the Hundred. The setback rules him out of the remaining Scotland series and the subsequent eight white-ball games in England.

Ellis had targeted the Scotland series as an opportunity to lead Australia’s attack in the absence of rested pacemen Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins, and injured Josh Hazlewood. However, Cricket Australia confirmed on Friday that Ellis’s hamstring tendon injury had not healed sufficiently for him to be considered for selection.

The timing of the injury is particularly frustrating for Ellis, who has played 17 T20Is but has often found his opportunities limited by the presence of the “big three” quicks. Riley Meredith, who made his first international appearance since 2021 in Australia’s thrashing of Scotland in the first T20I, will remain with the squad as cover.

Hazlewood has joined the squad in England ahead of Wednesday’s first T20I at the Utilita Bowl, having recovered from a minor calf strain. Ellis was also expected to feature in the five-match ODI series against England, which starts on September 19, but a replacement is yet to be named.

Meredith could potentially be released to play for Somerset on T20 Blast Finals Day on Saturday, but the club’s captain Lewis Gregory has indicated that they do not expect him to be available. Somerset do not have any players in England’s T20I squad, so they will otherwise have their full squad at their disposal.

Ellis’s injury is a blow to Australia’s T20I ambitions, as he has proven to be a valuable asset with his ability to bowl at high speeds and generate swing. His absence will put pressure on the remaining bowlers to step up and perform consistently.

Australia Dominate Scotland in Second T20I, Secure Series Victory

Australia Dominate Scotland in Second T20I, Secure Series Victory

Australia’s dominance continued in the second T20I against Scotland, as they secured a comprehensive 7-wicket victory at Grange Cricket Club in Edinburgh. The Mitchell Marsh-led side showcased their batting prowess, chasing down Scotland’s 155-run target with ease.

Travis Head was the star of the show for Australia, smashing an astonishing 80 runs off just 25 deliveries. His blistering knock included five towering sixes and 12 boundaries, setting the tone for Australia’s aggressive approach. The opening partnership between Head and Marsh (29) laid the foundation for the chase, as they amassed 113 runs in the powerplay, the highest-ever score in a T20I first powerplay.

Scotland’s bowlers struggled to contain Australia’s onslaught, with only Mark Watt (2/30) managing to pick up multiple wickets. The Scottish batsmen had earlier posted a competitive total of 154/6, thanks to contributions from George Munsey (30), Matthew Cross (29), and Calum MacLeod (27).

However, Australia’s bowlers proved too strong, with Josh Hazlewood (2/22) and Cameron Green (2/25) sharing four wickets between them. Scotland captain Richie Berrington acknowledged the gulf in class between the two sides, stating that Australia’s bowlers made it difficult for his batsmen to capitalize on their good start.

The victory gives Australia an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. The final T20I will be played on September 8, 2024, at the same venue.

Praveen Kumar Soars to Gold in Paris Paralympics High Jump

Praveen Kumar Soars to Gold in Paris Paralympics High Jump

Praveen Kumar, the Indian para-athlete, has etched his name in history by winning a gold medal in the men’s high jump T64 final at the Paris Paralympics. This triumph marks a significant milestone in his career, following his silver medal at the Tokyo Paralympics.

Kumar, who hails from Noida, was born with a short leg. Despite this physical challenge, he has demonstrated unwavering determination and resilience throughout his journey. In the T64 category, athletes have movement moderately affected in one lower leg or the absence of one or both legs below the knee.

During the final, Kumar showcased his exceptional athleticism, clearing a season-best jump of 2.08m. This remarkable height also set a new area record. The six-jumper field witnessed intense competition, with USA’s Derek Loccident claiming the silver medal with a jump of 2.06m. Uzbekistan’s Temurbek Giyazov secured the bronze medal with a personal best of 2.03m.

Kumar’s triumph is a testament to his unwavering spirit and the unwavering support he has received from his family, coaches, and the Indian Paralympic Committee. His journey serves as an inspiration to countless individuals, demonstrating that physical limitations cannot hinder the pursuit of dreams.

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