Bangladesh Bowl First in Resumed Rawalpindi Test

Bangladesh Bowl First in Resumed Rawalpindi Test

Bangladesh Opt to Bowl First in Rain-Hit Rawalpindi Test

After a rain-soaked opening day, the second day of the second Test between Pakistan and Bangladesh commenced under a warm and sunny sky in Rawalpindi. Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto won the toss and elected to bowl first, citing the moisture in the pitch that could aid his seamers.

Bangladesh made one change to their victorious team from the first Test, with Taskin Ahmed replacing the injured Shoriful Islam. Pakistan, already missing Shaheen Shah Afridi, also rested Naseem Shah, bringing in legspinner Abrar Ahmed and left-arm seamer Mir Hamza.

Bangladesh currently hold a 1-0 lead in the two-match series, having secured their maiden Test victory over Pakistan in the previous game. A win or draw in this match would seal a rare away series triumph for the Tigers.

Pakistan Team:

1. Abdullah Shafique
2. Saim Ayub
3. Shan Masood (capt)
4. Babar Azam
5. Saud Shakeel
6. Mohammad Rizwan (wk)
7. Salman Ali Agha
8. Abrar Ahmed
9. Mir Hamza
10. Mohammad Ali
11. Khurram Shahzad

Bangladesh Team:

1. Shadman Islam
2. Zakir Hasan
3. Najmul Hossain Shanto (capt)
4. Mominul Haque
5. Mushfiqur Rahim
6. Shakib Al Hasan
7. Litton Das (wk)
8. Mehidy Hasan Miraz
9. Taskin Ahmed
10. Hasan Mahmud
11. Nahid Rana

BCCI Mulls Fate of Two-Bouncer Clause and Impact Player Rule

BCCI Mulls Fate of Two-Bouncer Clause and Impact Player Rule

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is contemplating the retention of two significant playing conditions from the previous domestic and Indian Premier League (IPL) season: the two-bouncer clause and the Impact Player rule.

Two-Bouncer Clause:

Introduced last season in domestic cricket and the IPL, the two-bouncer rule allows bowlers to deliver a second bouncer in an over. While initially welcomed by the cricketing community, the BCCI is now reviewing its implementation. The rule’s impact on the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT), the men’s Twenty20 inter-state competition, is being considered.

Impact Player Rule:

The Impact Player rule, which permits teams to substitute a player during an innings, remains a contentious topic. While former cricketer Zaheer Khan supports the rule, many players and coaches have expressed reservations. The BCCI is yet to make a decision on its inclusion in the SMAT.

BCCI’s Delay in Sharing Playing Conditions:

Despite assurances, the BCCI has delayed sharing the playing conditions for the SMAT. State associations are still awaiting confirmation on the two rules, which could impact their continuation in the IPL.

Key Points:

* The BCCI is reviewing the two-bouncer clause and Impact Player rule.
* The decision on these rules for the SMAT will influence their inclusion in the IPL.
* The BCCI has not yet released the playing conditions for the SMAT.
* Zaheer Khan supports the Impact Player rule, while others have expressed concerns.

Samit Dravid Earns Maiden India Under-19 Call-Up

Samit Dravid Earns Maiden India Under-19 Call-Up

Samit Dravid, the son of legendary Indian cricketer Rahul Dravid, has earned his maiden call-up to the India Under-19 squad for the upcoming multi-format home series against Australia Under-19. The series, scheduled for September and October, will feature three 50-over matches and two four-day games.

Dravid, an all-rounder, has impressed with his performances in the ongoing Maharaja T20 Trophy in Karnataka. Batting in the middle-order for the Mysuru Warriors, he has scored 82 runs at a strike rate of 114 in seven innings.

Mohamed Amaan, a middle-order batter from Uttar Pradesh, will captain the India Under-19 50-over squad, while Madhya Pradesh’s Soham Patwardhan will lead the team for the four-day matches.

The 50-over matches will be played in Puducherry on September 21, 23, and 26, followed by the four-day games in Chennai starting on September 30 and October 7.

Djokovic Stunned in US Open Third Round by Popyrin

Djokovic Stunned in US Open Third Round by Popyrin

Defending champion Novak Djokovic’s reign at the US Open came to an abrupt end in the third round, as he succumbed to a stunning 4-6, 4-6, 6-2, 4-6 defeat against Australia’s Alexei Popyrin. This marks Djokovic’s earliest exit at a Grand Slam since the 2017 Australian Open, where he was upset by Denis Istomin in the second round.

Djokovic’s ouster follows the shock elimination of 2022 champion Carlos Alcaraz in the second round, leaving the US Open without any of the “Big Three” (Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, and Roger Federer) in the Round of 16 for the first time since the 2004 French Open.

The Serb’s defeat was largely self-inflicted, as he committed a career-high 14 double faults, including four that handed Popyrin a double break in the fourth set. Despite breaking back once, Djokovic was unable to prevent the Aussie from closing out the match two games later.

Popyrin, who had previously pushed Djokovic to four sets at the Australian Open and Wimbledon this year, finally secured his first victory against the 24-time Grand Slam winner in their fourth encounter. The Australian’s triumph was particularly impressive considering he had never advanced beyond the third round of a Grand Slam before.

“It’s unbelievable,” said Popyrin. “I’ve been in the third round about 15 times in my career, but I haven’t been able to get past to the fourth round. To be able to do it against the greatest of all time to get into the fourth round is unbelievable.”

Popyrin’s victory continues a remarkable summer for the Australian, who recently captured the Cincinnati Open title, his maiden Masters 1000 triumph. He will now face American Jenson Brooksby in the fourth round, aiming to continue his dream run at the US Open.

Indian Paralympians Impress in Paris, Badminton Star Solaimalai Stuns

Indian Paralympians Impress in Paris, Badminton Star Solaimalai Stuns

Indian Paralympians Shine in Paris, Badminton Star Sivarajan Solaimalai Impresses

The Indian contingent at the Paris 2024 Paralympics has made a strong start, returning with four medals on Friday. While not all athletes have secured podium finishes, many have showcased exceptional performances, including badminton star Sivarajan Solaimalai.

In a men’s singles SH6 group play stage match against Hong Kong’s Man Kai Chu, Solaimalai displayed remarkable skill and determination. A video of the match has gone viral, capturing the duo’s intense rally and awe-inspiring shots.

Indian para shuttlers have performed exceptionally well on Day 3 of the Paralympic Badminton event, with several advancing to the next stages. In the men’s SL3 category, Kumar Nitesh dominated China’s Yang Jianyuan, securing a straight-sets victory. Suhas L Yathiraj also impressed in the SL4 category, defeating Korea’s Shin Kyung Hwan in a thrilling match.

The women’s category has also seen strong performances. Thulsimathi Murugesan and Nithya Sre both booked their spots in the semifinals with impressive victories. However, Mansi Joshi, Manoj Sarkar, and Palak Kohli faced tough opponents and were unable to advance.

Despite these setbacks, India’s athletes remain focused and determined. This year’s contingent is the largest ever, with 84 athletes competing across 12 sports. India aims to surpass its previous achievements in Tokyo, where it won 19 medals, including five golds.

Tiafoe Triumphs in Epic Five-Set Battle at U.S. Open

Tiafoe Triumphs in Epic Five-Set Battle at U.S. Open

Frances Tiafoe, the American tennis star, has once again proven his mettle at the U.S. Open, defeating his compatriot Ben Shelton in a thrilling five-set battle. The victory marks Tiafoe’s fifth consecutive appearance in the fourth round at Flushing Meadows.

Tiafoe, known for his charismatic personality and love for the spotlight, relished the opportunity to perform in front of a packed Arthur Ashe Stadium. Despite not playing at night, he remained focused and determined to emerge victorious.

The match was a rematch of their quarterfinal clash at the 2022 U.S. Open, which Shelton won in four sets. This time, Tiafoe showed resilience and determination, overcoming a 2-1 deficit to secure the win.

Tiafoe’s victory was built on his ability to neutralize Shelton’s powerful serve and his own aggressive net play. He converted five of the 21 break points he created, while Shelton managed to hold serve throughout the first two sets.

In the fifth set, Tiafoe took control with a break in the fourth game. He maintained his lead and sealed the match with a nonchalant volley that belied the tension of the moment.

After the match, Tiafoe and Shelton embraced at the net, demonstrating the camaraderie between the two friends. Tiafoe acknowledged the importance of showing sportsmanship and being happy for his opponent’s success.

Tiafoe’s victory is a testament to his growth as a player and his ability to perform under pressure. He is now poised to face Novak Djokovic, the defending champion, in the fourth round.

The match also highlights the resurgence of American tennis, with five Americans currently ranked in the top 20 of the ATP rankings. Tiafoe, Taylor Fritz, Brandon Nakashima, and others are carrying the hopes of a nation eager to see a homegrown champion at a Grand Slam tournament.

India's Paralympic Stars Set for Action-Packed Saturday in Paris

India’s Paralympic Stars Set for Action-Packed Saturday in Paris

India’s Schedule at Paris Paralympics 2024: Saturday, August 31

India’s Paralympic contingent will continue their quest for glory on Saturday, August 31, with a packed schedule of events. Among the highlights will be the performance of armless archer Sheetal Devi, who has already made a strong impression in the women’s individual compound open event.

Morning Session:

* 12:00 PM: Para badminton – Mandeep Kaur vs Celine Aureline Vinot (Australia) – Women’s Singles SL3 Group B (Group Stage)
* 1:00 PM: Para shooting – Swaroop Mahavir Unhalkar – R1 Men’s 10m Air Rifle SH1 Standing (Qualification)
* 1:20 PM: Para badminton – Nitish Kumar vs Mongkhon Bunsun (Thailand) – Men’s Singles SL3 Group A (Group Stage)
* 1:30 PM: Para cycling – Jyoti Gaderiya – Women’s 500m Time Trial C1-C3 (Qualification)
* 1:49 PM: Para cycling – Arshad Shaik – Men’s 1000m Time Trial C1-C3 (Qualification)
* 2:00 PM: Para badminton – Manoj Sarkar vs Ynag Jianyuan (China) – Men’s Singles SL3 Group A (Group Stage)

Afternoon Session:

* 2:40 PM: Para rowing – Anita/Narayana – PR 3 Mixed Doubles Sculls (Repechage)
* 2:40 PM: Para badminton – Sukant Kadam vs Siripong Teamarrom (Thailand) – Men’s Singles SL4 Group B (Group Stage)
* 3:20 PM: Para badminton – Tarun Dhillon vs Lucas Mazur (France) – Men’s Singles SL4 Group D (Group Stage)
* 3:30 PM: Para shooting – Rubina Francis – P2 Women’s 10m Air Pistol SH1 (Qualification)
* 3:45 PM: Para shooting – Subject to Qualification – R1 Men’s 10m Air Rifle SH1 Standing (Finals)
* 4:00 PM: Para badminton – Manisha Ramadas vs Yang Qiu Xia (China) – Women’s Singles SU5 Group C (Group Stage)

Evening Session:

* 5:05 PM: Para cycling – Subject to Qualification – Women’s 500m Time Trial C1-C3 (Finals)
* 5:32 PM: Para cycling – Subject to Qualification – Men’s 1000m Time Trial C1-C3 (Finals)
* 6:15 PM: Para shooting – Subject to Qualification – P2 Women’s 10m Air Pistol SH1 (Finals)
* 7.00 PM: Para archery – Sarita vs Eleonara Sarti (Italy) – Women’s Individual Compound Open (Round of 16)
* 8:59 PM: Para archery – Sheetal Devi vs Mariana Zuniga (Chile) – Women’s Individual Compound Open (Round of 16)
* 9:16 PM: Para archery – Subject to Qualification – Women’s Individual Compound Open (Quarterfinals)
* 10:24 PM: Para archery – Subject to Qualification – Women’s Individual Compound Open (Semifinals)
* 10:30 PM: Para athletics – Parveen Kumar – Men’s Javelin F57 (Finals)
* 11:13 PM: Para archery – Subject to Qualification – Women’s Individual Compound Open (Bronze Medal Match)
* 11:30 PM: Para archery – Subject to Qualification – Women’s Individual Compound Open (Finals)

Suryakumar Yadav's Test Comeback Hopes Dented by Hand Injury

Suryakumar Yadav’s Test Comeback Hopes Dented by Hand Injury

India’s T20 captain Suryakumar Yadav’s hopes of a Test comeback have been dealt a blow after he suffered a hand injury while fielding for Mumbai in the Buchi Babu tournament. The extent of the injury is yet to be determined, but it is a significant concern for the hard-hitting batsman with the Duleep Trophy set to commence on September 5.

Yadav, who has played only one Test for India, was eager to impress the selectors in the red-ball format. He had expressed his excitement about the upcoming Duleep Trophy, which would have given him a chance to stake his claim for a place in the Test team.

However, his injury has cast a shadow over his plans. The injury occurred while he was fielding in Mumbai’s match against Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) XI. Mumbai could only manage 156 in reply to TNCA XI’s 379, and now face a daunting target of 510 to win.

Yadav is part of the Ruturaj Gaikwad-led Team C squad in the Duleep Trophy. India’s home season kicks off with the two-Test series against Bangladesh in September-October. If Yadav’s injury is serious, it could jeopardize his chances of making a comeback to the Test team.

The injury is a setback for Yadav, who has been in excellent form in white-ball cricket. He was the leading run-scorer in the recently concluded T20I series against West Indies, and has also been impressive in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Yadav’s injury is a reminder of the physical demands of cricket. Even the most talented players are susceptible to injuries, and it is important for them to manage their workload carefully. Yadav will be hoping that his injury is not serious, and that he will be able to recover in time for the Duleep Trophy and the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh.

India's Champions Trophy Participation in Pakistan Remains Uncertain

India’s Champions Trophy Participation in Pakistan Remains Uncertain

India’s participation in the 2025 Champions Trophy in Pakistan remains uncertain, with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) yet to confirm their plans. Last year, Pakistan co-hosted the Asia Cup under a hybrid model, with India playing their matches in Sri Lanka due to security concerns.

Former Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Kamran Akmal has expressed his disappointment over India’s reluctance to tour Pakistan. He believes that if Australia can visit Pakistan, India should follow suit. “When a team like Australia can visit Pakistan, why not India? The India-Pakistan bilateral series should happen. Both governments need to sit and talk. This will benefit cricket,” Akmal told Times of India.

The BCCI has consistently stated that the Indian team will only travel to Pakistan with the approval of the central government. India captain Rohit Sharma has also emphasized that the players are willing to play anywhere, but the final decision rests with the government.

Akmal, however, believes that the Pakistan government would never prevent their players from playing in India. He pointed out that Pakistan toured India for the ODI World Cup last year. “Pehle aapne Asia Cup le liya, ab Champions Trophy ki baatein kar rahe hain. Kyun kar rahe hain aap aisa? (First you took away the Asia Cup from Pakistan; now talking about the Champions Trophy, why?) … Pakistan has done a lot of hard work to bring cricket back to the country. If India invites Pakistan, our government will never stop us. They will say, ‘Go and play.’ The Indian government should do the same. Let’s keep politics aside and play cricket,” he added.

The Champions Trophy is a prestigious tournament that brings together the top eight ODI teams in the world. Pakistan has invested heavily in hosting the event and is eager to showcase its progress in bringing international cricket back to the country. India’s participation would be a significant boost for Pakistan and would help to further strengthen the bonds between the two nations through the shared love of cricket.

Pakistani Fans Eager for Farewell Tour by Kohli and Sharma

Pakistani Fans Eager for Farewell Tour by Kohli and Sharma

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma: A Pakistani Invitation for a Farewell Tour

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, two of the most celebrated batters in modern cricket, have a massive fan following worldwide. However, Pakistan remains the only country where they have never played an international match. The political tensions between India and Pakistan have prevented bilateral cricket series since 2012-13.

Former Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Kamran Akmal has extended an invitation to Kohli and Sharma to visit Pakistan before they retire. Akmal believes that the love and appreciation they would receive in Pakistan would be unparalleled.

“Virat and Rohit should visit Pakistan before they retire,” Akmal told Times of India. “These two are stars of world cricket, traveling across the globe to play the game. Every single fan loves them. They have a massive fan base due to their batting and match-winning performances. The fan following they will experience in Pakistan will surpass anything they’ve seen elsewhere.”

Kohli toured Pakistan in his U-19 days, but he was not as well-known then. Akmal believes that Kohli’s popularity in Pakistan would be immense.

“Virat is a role model for many around the world, Rohit is the World Cup-winning captain, and Bumrah is currently the best pacer in the world,” Akmal added. “When players like Virat, Rohit, and Bumrah visit Pakistan, it will evoke unique feelings in every fan.”

Akmal also claimed that Pakistani fans love Indian players more than their own players.

“If Virat visits Pakistan now, he will truly see his popularity here,” Akmal said. “He will receive a different kind of support in Pakistan. No cricketer is more popular than Virat in Pakistan; he has a bigger fan-following than any other cricketer in the world. Pakistani fans love Virat, Rohit, and Bumrah more than any of their own cricket team players.”

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