Saeed Ajmal Cherishes Dismissing Sachin Tendulkar, Recalls Tendulkar's Bowling Advice

Saeed Ajmal Cherishes Dismissing Sachin Tendulkar, Recalls Tendulkar’s Bowling Advice

Saeed Ajmal Recalls Dismissing Sachin Tendulkar, Shares Tendulkar’s Advice on Bowling

Former Pakistani cricketer Saeed Ajmal has expressed his immense joy at dismissing legendary batsman Sachin Tendulkar in international matches. Speaking at the launch of the GloFans High School Cricket Cup, Ajmal hailed Tendulkar as a “great cricketer” and a “legend.”

“Sachin is the most honest and kind person in the world,” Ajmal said. “He is worthy of the title ‘Sir.’ I have played with him, and it is an honor for me. Getting him out was a moment of happiness that I will always cherish.”

Ajmal revealed that Tendulkar once gave him valuable advice on how to dismiss former English batsman Kevin Pietersen. “He told me to bowl the doosra to get Pietersen out,” Ajmal recalled. “I followed his advice and succeeded. He was very happy.”

Tendulkar’s respect for his opponents extended beyond the field, according to Ajmal. “He told me that after I took four wickets in four overs, I shouldn’t finish the match too early,” Ajmal said. “He has always respected us. He is a very good man.”

Ajmal’s admiration for Tendulkar is a testament to the latter’s greatness both on and off the field. Tendulkar’s humility, sportsmanship, and exceptional cricketing skills have earned him the respect and admiration of players and fans alike.

Mbappe's Madrid Debut Raises Balance Concerns for Ancelotti

Top 15 football summer transfers of 2024

Finally, the transfer window has shut. And with that, all of us might have our list of yays and nays when it comes to transfers.

While Madrid fans will be ecstatic with the arrival of France sensation Kylian Mbappe and Brazilian wonderkid Endrick, Chelsea are seriously having a headache as to what to do with a squad boasting of 43 players. 43 effing players. Shocking right?

The summer of 2024 has been an eventful one for the football world. While there are way too many arrivals (pun intended) there are few players who have to depart to a different club in search of 💰 or more playing time.

In this article, we will be looking at the top 15 summer transfers that have taken place in the football world in 2024.

Top 15 football summer transfers of 2024

Julian Alvarez (Manchester City to Atletico Madrid)

Julian Alvarez Set for Atletico Madrid Move in Record-Breaking Deal

Argentina’s Julian Alvarez, who played second fiddle to Erling Haaland during his time at Manchester City; wanted to have more playing time. And this season, the midfielder received a bid from Diego Simeone’s Atletico Madrid who are going through a transition phase. 

With a dismal performance coming from Simeone’s squad last season, it was high time they looked for a striker who could land them goals (in dozens). And Alvarez seemed to be a perfect fit. Atletico Madrid announced the arrival of Alvarez from Manchester City in a deal worth £82m (€95m). 

Conor Gallagher (Chelsea to Atletico Madrid)

Enzo Maresca’s arrival at Chelsea meant trouble for many. Ex-Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher was one of the many players leaving Stamford Bridge. The Blues midfielder found a new home at 2020-21 La Liga champions Atletico Madrid.

Atlético Madrid completed the signing of midfielder Conor Gallagher from Chelsea in a deal worth around €40 million ($44m). With this signing, Atletico has strengthened their midfield comprising Koke, Rodrigo de Paul, Thomas Lemar, and Marcos Llorente.

Leny Yoro (Lille to Manchester United)

Manchester United had a busy summer. After securing the services of Joshua Zirkzee, the Red Devils beat Spanish giants Real Madrid to get France’s Leny Yoro to Old Trafford. 

The center-back moved to the Red Devils in a deal worth £52m plus add-ons. This might seem a very big amount considering the youngster’s age. However, the French center-back is being considered as one of the best teenagers in the football world.

Kylian Mbappe (PSG to Real Madrid)

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One of the most anticipated transfers of this season finally happened after a lot of controversy. Kylian Mbappe followed his idol’s footsteps (no points for the right guesses). The 2018 World Cup winner joined 2023-24 UEFA Champions League winners Real Madrid on a free transfer.

Mbappé, 25, signed a five-year contract at the club after leaving Paris Saint-Germain on a free transfer. Madrid president Florentina Perez had been seeking the France captain’s signature since the 2018 FIFA World Cup; the first time Mbappe broke on the international stage. But things couldn’t materialize somehow.

However, now that he has joined his dream club, will the Frenchmen be able to emulate his idol’s success at the club?

Endrick (Palmeiras to Real Madrid)

Real Madrid needs to be credited for their smart transfer business. After getting Kylian Mbappe at the club, the La Liga giants decided to bring Brazilian wonderkid Endrick to Santiago Bernabeu. 

Madrid agreed a deal to sign forward Endrick from Palmeiras in December 2022, but the prospect could not formally join the club until his 18th birthday on July 21, 2024.

Dani Olmo (RB Leipzig to Barcelona)

Dani Olmo Poised for Barcelona Debut as Financial Woes Ease

After helping his country lift the Euro 2024 trophy, Dani Olmo has decided to join the boyhood club, Barcelona. The Catalans who had shown interest in the La Masia graduate finally secured the player this transfer season.

The La Liga giants have reportedly sent an offer worth €62 million (£53 million) with a €55 million (£47 million) initial fee and €7 million (£6 million) in add-ons. The midfielder has agreed to sign a six-year contract with Barcelona.

Dominic Solanke (Bournemouth to Tottenham Hotspurs)

Seems like Harry Kane’s move to Bayern Munich has seriously affected Tottenham. The perennial underachievers of the Premier League have failed to convert their attacks into goals. The failure of Richarlison and the constant injury problems of Heung Min Son have put additional pressure on the club. 

The North London club has decided to fill the void of a consistent striker by bringing Bournemouth’s goal-scoring machine Dominic Solanke to the club. As per the deal, Solanke cost a total of £65m for the Spurs. The deal will see Spurs pay an initial £55m with £10m possible to follow in bonuses.

Pedro Neto (Wolves to Chelsea)

Chelsea are going berserk at the transfer window this season. Could you believe they have a squad boasting a total of 9 goalkeepers? Wonder what the football pundits have to say about this!!

After signing a total of 13 players this season, the move of Pedro Neto from Wolverhampton Wanderers to the Blues has met with an amazing response from the fans.

As for the numbers, Pedro Neto has completed his move to Chelsea from Wolves; the Blues will pay £51.4m upfront plus £2.6m in add-ons.

Federico Chiesa (Juventus to Liverpool)

Federico Chiesa Joins Liverpool in 12.5 Million Pound Deal

The Arne Slot era at Anfield has begun. After deciding to not do any summer signings (unusual by a club of their standards), Liverpool decided to make a late entry into the transfer window.

Chiesa, the Italian starboy who lit up the Euro 2020 stage with his amazing dribbling skills, decided to make a move into the Premier League. The former Juventus player signed a three-year deal worth €13M; which seems to be a bargain for the 2019-20 Premier League winners.

Manuel Ugarte (PSG to Manchester United)

The lack of powerhouse midfielders has been hurting Manchester United for the past few seasons. Yes, skipper Bruno Fernandes has been holding the fort quite well for the Red Devils. But the need for more players like him is needed at Old Trafford.

And the Red Devils have pinned their hopes on Manuel Ugarte. The Uruguayan international, who plays for Paris St. Germain has arrived at Manchester United. The club shelled out €50 million to secure his services; who was a top target for manager Erik Ten Hag.

Ivan Toney (Brentford to Al-Ahli)

After being linked to a move to Chelsea, Brentford star Ivan Toney has decided to try his luck at the Saudi Pro League. The Englishman has decided to join the Middle East club for a stunning move to Al-Ahli that cost €42M on the deadline day.  At Al-Ahli, Toney will earn a staggering £403,000-a-week including bonuses. It means Toney will earn more than 13 times the £36,000-a-week wage he picked up at Brentford.

Matthijs de Ligt (Bayern Munich to Manchester United)

Erik Ten Hag’s Manchester United have bolstered their defense with the addition of Matthijs de Ligt. The former Juventus and Bayern Munich player has signed a contract until June 2029, with the option to extend for a further year.

The Netherlands international has signed a deal worth a combined £60 million ($76.6m) including add-ons.

The news will surely boost the hopes of United fans who want to make a return to UEFA Champions League football.

Joao Neves (Benfica to PSG)

After a lot of helter-skelter, Benfica star Joao Neves has confirmed a move to Paris St. Germain. 

The young Portuguese player has joined PSG for a five-year deal worth €60 million.

Considered one of the hottest properties in the football world, Neves will surely try his best to win the first-ever Champions League for the Ligue 1 champions.

Michael Olise (Crystal Palace to Bayern Munich)

Looks like last year’s dismal Bundesliga season has made Bayern Munich head back straight to the drawing board and strengthen its squad. To get back to winning ways, the German champions have signed Michael Olise from Crystal Palace. 

The Bundesliga side will pay £50.8m (€60m) including add-ons to bring the 22-year-old to the Allianz Arena.

Joao Felix (Atletico Madrid to Chelsea)

After Romelu Lukaku, the only player who can claim to have an amazing agent is Portugal’s Joao Felix. After doing back and forth between Atletico Madrid and Chelsea, the winger has finally decided to move back to Stamford Bridge for a seven-year deal worth €50 million.

 

Other Notable Mentions:

Jadon Sancho (Manchester United to Chelsea)

Victor Osimhein (Napoli to Galatasaray)

Douglas Luiz (Aston Villa to Juventus)

Mats Hummels (Borrusia Dortmund to AS Roma)

 

So, that’s it. That’s our list of the top 15 summer transfers in football that we feel might be game-changers this season. Were you satisfied with your club’s transfer strategy this season? Comment down below who you think should be bought and who should be sold at your favourite club.

Rishabh Pant Advocates Elite Player Involvement in Domestic Cricket

Rishabh Pant Advocates Elite Player Involvement in Domestic Cricket

Rishabh Pant, India’s star wicketkeeper-batter, has expressed his support for the involvement of elite players in domestic cricket as the Duleep Trophy commenced on Thursday. Pant, who is representing India B in the tournament, shared his excitement about returning to red-ball cricket after a two-year hiatus.

“It’s an amazing feeling, especially after the accident I had two years ago,” Pant said. “I always wondered when I would be able to play for India again. In the past six months, I’ve played in the IPL and won the World Cup, which was a dream come true. Now, I’m back in red-ball cricket and playing my first Duleep Trophy match in over two years.”

Pant emphasized the importance of domestic cricket, particularly the Duleep Trophy. “Match practice is crucial for cricketers,” he said. “Youngsters learn a lot from us when they see us playing here, even after playing international cricket. We have a responsibility to share our experiences and knowledge with them.”

The 26-year-old believes that the gaps between international teams are narrowing, leading to increased focus on improvement. “Asian countries like Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka perform well in Asian conditions,” Pant said. “But as the Indian team, we focus on our own standards and how we can improve. We strive to play with the same intensity and give our best every day.”

Pant acknowledged the pressure associated with international cricket but emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive mindset. “The pressure will always be there,” he said. “But we have to give our hundred percent regardless. That mindset has worked well for me so far.”

Pant is hopeful of making a return to the Test side for the upcoming two-match series against Bangladesh. “The margin between winning and losing is very small nowadays,” he said. “But we have to give our hundred percent and focus on our own improvement.”

Ugandan Olympic Athlete Rebecca Cheptegei Dies in Domestic Violence Attack

Ugandan Olympic Athlete Rebecca Cheptegei Dies in Domestic Violence Attack

Ugandan Olympic athlete Rebecca Cheptegei’s tragic death has sent shockwaves through the sports community. The 33-year-old long-distance runner succumbed to her injuries at a Kenyan hospital after suffering severe burns in an attack by her partner.

Cheptegei’s death marks another devastating loss in the world of athletics, following the murders of Benjamin Kiplagat, Damaris Muthee, and Agnes Tirop in recent years. The incident has sparked outrage and condemnation, highlighting the alarming prevalence of domestic violence against women in sports.

According to hospital spokesperson Owen Menach, Cheptegei’s organs failed after 80% of her body was burned in the attack. She had been fully sedated upon admission and had been receiving intensive care.

Cheptegei’s father, Joseph, expressed his grief and hopes for justice. He described his daughter as a supportive and loving individual. Trans Nzoia County Police Commander Jeremiah ole Kosiom revealed that Cheptegei’s partner, Dickson Ndiema, had purchased gasoline and set her ablaze during a disagreement. Ndiema also sustained burns and is currently receiving treatment in the same hospital.

The Uganda Athletics Federation and Uganda Olympic Committee have condemned the attack, calling it a senseless act of violence. They have expressed their condolences to Cheptegei’s family and called for justice to be served.

Cheptegei’s death has raised concerns about the safety of female athletes and the need for stronger measures to prevent domestic violence. The incident has also brought attention to the importance of mental health support for athletes, who often face immense pressure and stress.

As the investigation into Cheptegei’s death continues, the sports community mourns the loss of a talented athlete and a victim of domestic violence. Her legacy will serve as a reminder of the need to address this critical issue and ensure the safety and well-being of all athletes.

Nida Dar's Belated T20 World Cup Congratulation Raises Eyebrows

Nida Dar’s Belated T20 World Cup Congratulation Raises Eyebrows

Former Pakistan women’s cricket team captain Nida Dar’s belated social media post congratulating the Indian men’s team on their T20 World Cup victory has sparked amusement and confusion among fans.

On September 5, 2024, Dar posted on Twitter, “Congrats to India on winning the @T20WorldCup 2024! A special shoutout to @ImRo45 @imVkohli for their immense contributions to world cricket. Your leadership, skill, and dedication have inspired millions around the world. Happy retirement, legends!”

The post, which included photos of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Rahul Dravid, caught everyone by surprise as the T20 World Cup had been won by India on June 29, 2023.

Dar’s post was met with a flurry of comments, with many users questioning her tardiness. “Nida Dar travelled back in time and got stuck there?” tweeted Saba S. Sheikh. “Nida Dar has just now landed from Mars!!” exclaimed Amitava.

Dar later deleted the post from her social media account.

Meanwhile, in men’s cricket, Pakistan’s Test team has dropped two places in the ICC rankings to eighth position after a 0-2 series defeat at home to Bangladesh. This is Pakistan’s lowest rating points in the Test rankings since 1965.

Pakistan was ranked sixth before the series against Bangladesh, but back-to-back losses on home soil have seen them slide below the West Indies. Pakistan has now lost six and drawn four of their last ten home Tests, with series defeats against Australia, England, and Bangladesh.

Gill's Stunning Catch Ends Pant's Return in Duleep Trophy

Gill’s Stunning Catch Ends Pant’s Return in Duleep Trophy

Rishabh Pant’s eagerly awaited return to red-ball cricket after his horrific car accident in December 2022 was cut short on Thursday, as India A captain Shubman Gill pulled off a breathtaking catch to dismiss the left-hander on day one of the first-round Duleep Trophy match against India B in Bengaluru.

Pant, who was making his first appearance in a competitive match since the accident, lasted just 10 balls before Gill’s stunning effort ended his innings. Trying to hit fast bowler Akash Deep towards the on-side, Pant sliced the ball towards mid-off, where Gill was stationed.

Gill, despite the ball appearing to be sailing over his head, never lost sight of it. Running backwards, he looked to be a yard or two short, but he dived full length at the last second to make up for it and pouch the ball.

Earlier, Gill won the toss and India A opted to bowl first to make use of any early moisture because of rains lashing Bengaluru over the past few days. India B got off to a sedate start, losing two wickets before lunch to reach 65 for 2 in 30 overs, with Yashasvi Jaiswal dismissed after getting his eye in. He scored 30.

The post lunch session saw a flurry of wickets as India B slipped to 94 for 7, with only Musheer Khan showing some resistance, while approaching a patient fifty. Pacers Khaleel Ahmed, Akash Deep and Avesh Khan took two wickets each.

Pant’s dismissal was a major setback for India A, who were hoping for a strong performance from the star wicketkeeper-batsman. However, Gill’s stunning catch proved to be a turning point in the match, as India B went on to post a respectable total of 242 all out.

Tendulkar's Mastery Over Warne: A Legendary Rivalry

Tendulkar’s Mastery Over Warne: A Legendary Rivalry

The legendary rivalry between Sachin Tendulkar, the batting maestro, and Shane Warne, the spin wizard, reached its zenith during India’s 1998 home series against Australia. The series was billed as a battle between two titans, and it lived up to the hype.

In preparation for the series, Tendulkar sought advice from Ravi Shastri, who had faced Warne in his debut Test. Shastri suggested that Tendulkar adopt an aggressive approach, as his shorter stature would make it difficult to counter Warne’s spin defensively.

Tendulkar then practiced extensively at the MRF Pace Academy in Chennai, working with former India leg-spinner Laxman Sivaramakrishnan to develop a strategy to neutralize Warne’s bowling.

In the first Test at Chepauk, Warne dismissed Tendulkar in the first innings. However, in the second innings, Tendulkar showcased his mastery over Warne’s spin. He used his sharp footwork to either play Warne on the full or rock back and cut the ball, neutralizing the spin.

Tendulkar’s unbeaten 155 in the second innings helped India secure a victory and set the tone for the series. His footwork and mastery over Warne’s spin made headlines, and Warne later admitted that bowling to Tendulkar in that series was one of the most challenging experiences of his career.

Tendulkar’s strategy was clear: he used his sharp footwork to either play Warne on the full or rock back and cut the ball, neutralizing the spin. His ability to pick Warne’s variations made him extremely effective against the leg-spinner.

Tendulkar countered Warne’s spin with ruthless precision, attacking the leg-spinner with aggression. He often stepped out of the crease to meet Warne’s deliveries on the full, particularly targeting the rough outside leg stump.

Tendulkar’s unbeaten 155 in the second innings, not only helped India secure a victory but also set the tone for the series, as Tendulkar’s footwork and mastery over Warne’s spin made headlines.

The rough patches on Indian pitches provided additional turn, but Tendulkar adapted superbly. Warne later admitted that bowling to Tendulkar in that series was one of the most challenging experiences of his career.

After the series, Warne famously admitted that he had nightmares about bowling to Tendulkar, particularly after the Chennai Test. Warne was one of the finest spinners of all time, but Tendulkar seemed to have a mental edge over him, especially on the subcontinent pitches where the ball turned sharply.

Jos Buttler Ruled Out of England's T20I Series Against Australia

Jos Buttler Ruled Out of England’s T20I Series Against Australia

Jos Buttler’s injury woes continue as he has been ruled out of England’s T20I series against Australia and could potentially miss the subsequent ODI series. The setback in his recovery from a right calf injury has cast a shadow over England’s transition towards a younger core under new coach Brendon McCullum.

Buttler, England’s limited-overs captain, sustained the injury in July while preparing for the Hundred. He had hoped to make his comeback in Lancashire’s Vitality Blast quarter-final on Wednesday, but the aggravation of the injury has put his participation in the rest of the summer in jeopardy.

Phil Salt, who has limited captaincy experience, will assume the captaincy duties for the T20I series and is also expected to keep wicket. Harry Brook, Ollie Pope’s vice-captain during England’s Test series against Sri Lanka, is set to lead the ODI leg of Australia’s tour.

Jamie Overton has been called up as a replacement in the T20I squad, while Jordan Cox has been added to the ODI squad as cover. England remain hopeful that Buttler can play some part in the ODI series, but his absence would be a significant blow as they look to rejuvenate the team after disappointing World Cup campaigns.

This setback is particularly concerning for Buttler, who has now suffered three calf injuries in the past four years. As he approaches his 34th birthday, his future as captain and his longevity as an international cricketer may depend on giving up wicketkeeping duties to preserve his body.

Indian Para-Archer Sheetal Devi Wins Bronze at Paralympics 2024

Indian Para-Archer Sheetal Devi Wins Bronze at Paralympics 2024

Sheetal Devi, a remarkable para-archer from India, has etched her name in history by securing a bronze medal in the mixed team compound archery event at the ongoing Paralympics 2024. Partnering with Rakesh Sharma, the duo triumphed over Italy’s Matteo Bonacina and Eleonora Sarti in a thrilling 156-155 encounter.

Despite her bronze medal triumph, Sheetal’s journey has been marked by both triumph and adversity. She commenced her campaign with an impressive performance in the women’s compound qualification round, setting a new world record with a score of 703. However, her record was later surpassed by Turkey’s Oznur Girdi. Sheetal finished second in the qualification round but faced a setback in the 1/8 Elimination 8 round, losing to Chile’s Mariana Zuniga by a narrow margin of 137-138.

Sheetal’s unwavering determination and resilience have been instrumental in her success. Born with phocomelia, a condition that resulted in her being born without arms, she has overcome significant challenges. Her journey began in Jammu and Kashmir, where she was born on January 10, 2007. In 2019, she was discovered by the Indian Army’s Rashtriya Rifles unit, who provided her with invaluable support in her education and medical care.

Prosthetics were not an option for Sheetal, but she discovered her exceptional ability to climb trees using her legs. Within a remarkable 11 months of training, she made her debut in the women’s compound event at the 2022 Asian Para Games, where she claimed two gold medals in mixed doubles and women’s individual, along with a silver in women’s double compound.

Sheetal’s achievements have not only brought glory to India but have also inspired countless individuals with disabilities. She is a testament to the indomitable spirit that resides within us all, proving that anything is possible with determination and support.

Rahul Dravid's Wild Celebration After India's T20 World Cup Triumph

Rahul Dravid’s Wild Celebration After India’s T20 World Cup Triumph

Rahul Dravid’s cricketing journey has been a remarkable tale of resilience and triumph. Known as “The Wall” for his unwavering defense, Dravid was a batting maestro who played countless match-winning innings for India. Despite his illustrious 16-year playing career, Dravid’s trophy cabinet lacked an ICC title.

However, destiny had a special plan for him. After retiring as a player, Dravid took over as coach of Team India. Under his guidance, Rohit Sharma and his team clinched the T20 World Cup 2024 trophy, India’s first ICC title in 11 years.

The World Cup final, where India defeated South Africa, was Dravid’s last game as coach. The team rewarded him with the ultimate farewell gift, and during the trophy collection, fans witnessed a rare sight: the usually composed Dravid immersed in a wild celebration.

The 51-year-old, known for his calm demeanor, opened up about the moment at the CEAT Awards. “We strived to achieve something together. When you come at the end of it, you have moments like that. It’s great to celebrate,” he said.

However, Dravid admitted that he tries to hide his exuberant celebrations from his sons, Samit and Anvay. “I try to avoid showing that to my children, thinking I’ve gone mad or something,” he said.

“But yeah, I was always telling the boys we got to maintain our balance, and remain cool, not go up and down with results. Thank god it was my last game, otherwise after that, they would have said ‘you’re saying one thing but doing something else’,” he added.

Dravid’s son, Samit, recently earned a spot in India’s Under-19 squad for the Australia series. The three-match one-day series will be held in Puducherry in September.

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